We're delighted to have a column from the new leader of North Herts District Council, Elizabeth Dennis-Harburg.

This month, she became only the second woman to lead NHDC in its 47 year history.

So, read on for the Labour group leader's must-read take here at Hitchin Nub News - as she says: 'It's always the quiet ones you should watch out for…'

............

"Little girls should be seen and not heard" was something my grandfather and father said probably

only occasionally.

But it's one of those things that sticks in your head as a child, and has the potential to shape you as an adult.

I doubt it was meant with malice, more an admonishment from a grown-up to a child to keep out of the way while they're busy.

I chose to stay quiet a long time. But I also chose to watch and learn. I've made my fair share of mistakes too, and grown as a result.

I'm fortunate to have had positive role models in the Hitchin & Harpenden Labour Party, and cross-party at North Herts District Council, to learn from.

As I take over as leader of North Herts District Council from Martin Stears-Handscomb, I've been reflecting on what this means for me, and our district.

What is truly inspiring is the ability of Labour and Liberal Democrat councillors in North Herts to work together to ensure our future is shaped by progressive politics.

We truly do have more in common with each other than that which divides us, and I'm proud we will continue working together as a joint administration to deliver the best for the people of North Herts.

I am only the second woman to lead NHDC in its 47 year history. I came of age in the 21st century

and am now tasked with ensuring NHDC meets its potential as a true 21st century local authority.

As we are all finding our feet and taking tentative steps towards what we hope will become our new, better, normality, this is no easy task.

I intend to be both seen, and heard, but most importantly, I will listen.

One of my priorities as your new leader is to support our town centres in achieving their maximum potential.

I'll be holding listening sessions with Labour and Liberal Democrat colleagues in Baldock, Hitchin, Letchworth, and Royston so you can tell us your top priorities for your high streets.

We'll be working to support our arts sector as an integral part of enterprise across the district.

We'll be continuing our ambitious environment strategies, including tree planting, re-wilding, and enhanced biodiversity.

What does it feel like to find myself responsible for not just getting your bins emptied, but the whole district?

It's a little daunting. It wasn't expected, or something I felt ready for yet.

But then a friend asked a very good question: who is ever truly ready?

The post-election period has been a whirlwind, with negotiations, administration, handover tasks, making arrangements with my employer to reduce work hours, parenting and taking time for myself.

All of it managed with minimal stress.

I might not have felt ready, but I am.