THE DISTRICT has been named as one of the healthiest and happiest in the country.

Epping Forest ranked fifteenth in financial advisory firm Grant Thornton UK LLP's vibrant economy index, which measures 324 areas in the UK across six social and economic indicators.

Nationally, Cambridge held first place in the national Index rankings for the fifth successive year.

The London borough of Camden was rated the second most vibrant place to live in England, with Westminster ranking third, Wokingham fourth and Richmond-on-Thames fifth.

Looking at the most improved local authority areas nationally since the Index first began in 2013, Harlow made the top 10 at number nine, having moved up 60 places to 220 over the five year period.

Graham Mummery, director at Grant Thornton’s Chelmsford office, said: “The Vibrant Economy Index has been developed around the belief that a successful economy should provide opportunities for everyone; we need to focus on more than just economic prosperity and growth.

“Unsurprisingly for a large, diverse county, the latest Vibrant Economy Index findings show a divided situation across Essex with some areas performing strongly across a range of factors, particularly health, wellbeing and happiness, whilst others fall below average.

“Creating a more vibrant, inclusive and balanced economy right across the county is not something that could – or should – be the sole responsibility of any one organisation or person. Making this vision a reality means we need to work together, pooling our resources and strengths to produce positive change that will benefit all.”