EIGHT local people have been named Community Champions for Leyton.

Team Leyton, which is an organisation that aims to improve the quality of life for residents, appointed them after inviting people to become members of its board.

The role of the champions is to make sure the community has a voice and they will contribute to discussions ranging from crime, housing and environment, education and health to employment and youth.

The community champions are Jane Eustace for crime, Natalie Walters for education, Lemuel Liburd for youth, Kathy Goff for health, Pat Brace for housing and environment and Miranda Grell for jobs.

Community champion deputies are Pat Hackshaw for crime and Yousaff Khan for jobs.

There are vacancies for deputies for health, housing and environment, education and youth.

Ms Grell said: "I feel really honoured to be appointed. I was born in Leyton and have lived here all my life.

"I am excited about being involved in the employment action partnership as work brings dignity, helps reduce crime and creates greater equality. My aim is to involve as many residents as possible."

Cllr Simon Wright, chairman of the Team Leyton neighbourhood management board, said he was pleased to welcome the new champions.

The team also manages the Leyton Neighbourhood Forum.