Chelmsford have been labelled the "hidden gems of Essex" in a quality of life survey.

The annual survey, compiled by banking chain Halifax, looks at factors such as health and life expectancy, crime rates, weather, employment and the performance of local schools to rank the most desirable local authorities.

Chelmsford came in at an impressive number ten in the poll which was topped by the district of Hart, in Hampshire, because of its good health, long life-expectancy high earnings and good employment rate.