A councillor who won his seat last year after lots were drawn has resigned.

Labour's Kumail Jaffer has stepped down as ward councillor in Kenilworth, in Borehamwood, after a little over seven months in the role.

Mr Jaffer's says coupling his duties in Borehamwood and a new job as a journalist in Scotland has made things "difficult".

He said: "It's been an absolute privilege to serve the people of Kenilworth and unfortunately, the travel demands of my new job will make it difficult to continue serving the people of the ward effectively.

"I have enjoyed a productive 2019 on the council, where I have spoken out against the Tory record on homelessness and the state of local democracy. When it comes to local issues, Labour councillors have consistently proved to be proactive, caring and honourable. I urge the good people of Kenilworth to keep this seat a Labour one by electing a Labour successor to me."

Mr Jaffer is one of two students from across the country to have won a Stephen Lawrence Scholarship. This programme helps those from under-represented ethnic minorities and deprived backgrounds break into national journalism.

Part of the scheme involves a placement with the Daily Mail, and rather than being close to Hertsmere, Mr Jaffer was unexpectedly assigned to Glasgow to cover Scottish news and issues.

Hertsmere Labour group whip, Cllr Richard Butler said "It has been mutually agreed that local residents deserve a councillor who is easily accessible to them in person and engaged with the local area on a daily basis. Unlike some other parties we do not want our councillors to operate at a distance. We thank him for his contribution."

Hertsmere’s interim managing director Sajida Bijle received a letter of resignation from Mr Jaffer on December 31. 

Ms Bilje said: “We thank Kumail for his time as a local councillor and wish him well for the future.” 

Mr Jaffer beat his own party rival Dr Dan Ozarow to the final seat in Kenilworth ward when the Hertsmere Borough Council election results were announced in early May.

Both Labour candidates tied on 819 votes and lots were drawn to decide who would take the third and final seat in the ward.

Details of a by-election in Kenilworth ward are expected to be announced in due course.