The Barnet Labour Party has selected a former social worker to stand in the Hampstead Garden Suburb council by-election.

Janet Solomons, who has lived in the ward for almost 50 years and has four children, will contest the seat on May 7, the same day as the General Election.

Ms Solomons, who worked for Barnet social services for 14 years before retiring, has campaigned on protecting public services and against police cuts in the borough.

She said: "This is a great area, but it’s being let down by a council that talks at people and doesn't listen to them. One of my sons has used social care services and I am very concerned that this council is putting private profits ahead of the needs of service users.

“People around here want good locally provided services, safer streets, and an active councillor who will stick up for them.”

The by-election was triggered last month after Conservative councillor Danny Seal resigned, which left the Conservatives without a majority on Barnet Borough Council.

Other candidates who will contest the seat include Rohit Grover for the Conservatives and Adele Ward for the Green Party.