Richmond-upon-Thames named third 'most vibrant' area in England

Leafy Richmond-upon-Thames has been named as one of the most "vibrant" places in England to live and work.

Residents of the borough in south-west London were judged to be among the happiest in the country in a 'vibrant economy' index.

It came in behind only Cambridge in first place and Oxford in second in the list, compiled by accountants Grant Thornton.

The index identifies areas with the best balance between economic growth, social equality, health and happiness.

Researchers said they found earnings and economic output did not necessarily correlate with health.

For example, while some places in London scored highly for prosperity, some inner city areas had levels of anxiety.

Sacha Romanovitch, of Grant Thornton, said the index attempts to illustrate what it was like to live and work in different areas across England.

She said: "If we want an economy that works, then it must provide opportunities for everyone.

“We're hearing loud and clear the messages about what divides us in the UK.

“That means we need more than ever to build a vibrant economy where people are engaged in their local communities, where communities trust local businesses and local government, and where businesses can invest and grow."

South Cambridgeshire, Guildford, Wokingham, Windsor & Maidenhead, Vale of White Horse, Winchester and Reigate & Banstead made up the top 10.