Good morning and HapPy Bank Holiday Monday!

It’s Bank Holiday Monday—a well-earned day of rest for many, with no need to rush out the door for work. While most are enjoying a relaxing break, some in public service continue to keep our communities running—thank you to everyone working today!

On this day in 1999, Manchester United made history by clinching the European Cup in a dramatic win over Bayern Munich, completing their iconic ‘treble.’ How times have changed for the club since then.

Meanwhile, Stevenage was buzzing last night—not from football, but from an electric night of live music at the Lamex Stadium, featuring Richard Ashcroft, Sigala, Eirra, and Ella Henderson. If you were there, we’d love to hear about your experience!

Here’s what’s making headlines in Hertstown today:

• District councils usher in new leadership after annual meetings

• EV charging becomes a top priority for Stevenage Council

• Watford reveals an exciting summer events lineup

• Borehamwood hosts a public meeting on the future of Aycliffe Pavilion

• And much more!

A warm welcome to all our new subscribers—thanks for joining the Hertstown community! Have thoughts or story ideas? We want to hear from you. Let’s make Hertstown your trusted source for everything local.

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News at a Glance

Hertfordshire’s New Civic Leaders: Annual Council Meetings Bring Change

Hertfordshire’s ten districts—and the county council itself—have ushered in a new wave of civic leadership following their annual council meetings this May. Across the county, residents have seen the appointment of new mayors, council chairs, and, in some cases, fresh faces leading the councils and the county.

These annual meetings are pivotal for each borough, district, and the county at large, setting the ceremonial and executive direction for the year ahead. In several places, familiar faces have been re-elected, while others welcome newcomers, reflecting both stability and change in Hertfordshire’s local governance.

Key Highlights

• Mayors and chairpersons play a crucial ceremonial role, representing their council at official events, supporting local charities, and acting as a uniting presence for their communities.

• Council leaders set the strategic and policy agenda, making decisions that impact everything from planning and environment to social care and the local economy.

• At the county level, both executive and ceremonial leadership has changed, reflecting the evolving political landscape.

Below is a summary table of the new mayors and chairpersons—including the county council—for the 2025/26 civic year.

Table: Mayors and Chairpersons in Hertfordshire (2025/26)

Council and County Leaders

• Hertfordshire County Council: Cllr Steve Jarvis (Liberal Democrat)

• Broxbourne: Cllr Corina Gander

• Dacorum: Cllr Sally Symington

• East Hertfordshire: Cllr Ben Crystall

• Hertsmere: Cllr Jeremy Newmark

• North Hertfordshire: Cllr Daniel Allen

• St Albans: Cllr Paul De Kort

• Stevenage: Cllr Richard Henry

• Three Rivers: Cllr Stephen Giles-Medhurst

• Watford: (Elected Mayor) Peter Taylor

• Welwyn Hatfield: Cllr Max Holloway

These leaders, both ceremonial and executive, will play pivotal roles in shaping the future of their communities and the county over the coming year. Residents are encouraged to stay engaged with local news, attend council meetings, and participate in community initiatives as these new leaders set out their priorities for Hertfordshire in 2025/26.

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COMMUNITY UPDATE

STEVENAGE

Stevenage Council Boosts EV Charging for a Greener Community

Stevenage Borough Council is making it easier for residents and visitors to charge electric vehicles (EVs) with an expanded network of charging stations. You’ll find EV charging bays in the town centre, including 30 bays at Railway North—ideal for shopping or commuting—and six bays at St. Nicholas Pavilion for convenient charging while enjoying the park.

EV bays are also available at neighbourhood shopping areas: Oaks Cross, Filey Close, Archer Road, The Hyde, Bedwell, and The Glebe Shops (rear car park).

Please remember:

• Use charging bays only while actively charging (parking without charging may result in a penalty).

• Charging costs start at 50p/kWh and are managed via the Blink App.

This initiative is part of Stevenage’s push for sustainability, making green travel more accessible for everyone.
Visit the Stevenage Borough Council website for the full list of EV charging locations.

WATFORD

Watford Unveils Exciting Lineup of Summer Events for 2025

Watford Borough Council has released an exciting list of summer events for 2025, including music, arts, family fun, open-air cinema, sports, festivals, and more—many of them free or low-cost. There’s something for everyone across the town’s parks, high street, and community spaces.

To see the full schedule and event details, click here.

ST ALBANS

St Albans Spring Festival a Hit with Thousands

The first St Albans Spring Festival drew thousands to the city centre for a day of food, music, street theatre, and community fun. Streets were closed for the event, which featured accessible activities and dozens of food stalls. Organised by the City and District Council and local sponsors, the festival was hailed as a major success, with strong turnout and positive feedback likely paving the way for its return next year.

HERTSMERE

Have Your Say: Council Invites Public Input on Future of Aycliffe Pavilion in Borehamwood

Hertsmere Borough Council is seeking public input on the future of the Aycliffe Pavilion in Borehamwood, a council-owned community building that has been out of regular use for years. Residents are invited to participate in a six-week consultation to help decide whether the site should be renovated or redeveloped, with all options under consideration. Council Leader Jeremy Newmark emphasized the importance of community feedback, highlighting the project’s potential to create a much-needed multi-use facility for local residents. The playing fields will remain unaffected by any proposed changes.

UPCOMING EVENTS

🎨 May Half Term at St Albans Museums (23 May – 1 June 2025)

Looking for family-friendly activities this half term? St Albans Museums have a range of events and exhibitions to keep everyone entertained:

🏛️ St Albans Museum + Gallery

• Wild About Hertfordshire: Explore local wildlife through interactive exhibits.

• Firm Foundations: Discover the history of St Albans School of Art.

• Birds and Bugs Modelling: Create your own wildlife models.

• The Alphabet of the Norse People: Engage in a clay workshop filled with codes and carvings.

🏺 Verulamium Museum

• The Roman Kitchen Workshop: Learn about ancient Roman cooking techniques.

• Family Painting Workshops: Unleash your creativity with themed painting sessions.

• Crafts in the Colonnade: Participate in drop-in craft activities.

• Tessa Wheeler Trail: Explore the museum with a fun and educational trail.

🕰️ Clock Tower

• Open on weekends and bank holidays. Climb the 93 steps for panoramic views of St Albans.

For more details and booking information, visit the St Albans Museums website.

Hertford Family Pride Day

Three Rivers 70s Disco Fever Hits Watersmeet

✨ Boogie back to the era of glitter and groove at Watersmeet’s 70s Disco Night! Dress in your best sequins and flares, and dance to disco classics from Donna Summer, Bee Gees, Earth, Wind & Fire, and more. Enjoy a dazzling night under the disco ball, with prizes for the best-dressed funksters!

Don’t miss the party of the year—get your tickets now: https://orlo.uk/AjrGs

🎬 Screen On The Green Returns to Welwyn Garden City!

Enjoy four days of free outdoor cinema at Howardsgate from 14th to 17th August 2025. Bring friends, family, and something comfy—watch blockbusters like Despicable Me 4, Barbie, Moana 2, Paddington, and more on the big screen right in the heart of town!

Full schedule and details: Click here

Organised by Welwyn Garden City BID and local sponsors. Don’t miss out—big screen, big films, big fun!

Free Summer Concerts in Ware

Enjoy live music every few weeks from 1st June to 7th September on the back lawn at The Priory, High Street, Ware. Acts include Steve Young, Ware Brass, Twist of Rock, and more. All ages welcome—bar open.

See the full schedule at waretowncouncil.gov.uk/whats-on.

The Great Big Green Week - Welwyn Hatfield

Get involved in the Great Big Green Week.

Broxbourne Big Green Fest 2025

Broxbourne Borough presents the Broxbourne Big Green Fest 2025—a celebration of sustainability and creativity!

🍃 Inspiring talks
🎶 Live music & performances
🔨 Textile & wood upcycling workshops (register free: [email protected])

📅 Date: Sunday 8 June 2025
📍 Venue: Cedars Park
🕙 Time: 10am – 5pm

Free entry! Don’t miss this fun, eco-friendly day out for the whole community.

Prehistoric Art Family Crafts at Hertford Museum

Looking for something fun this May half term? Hertford Museum is hosting “Prehistoric Art”—a hands-on family activity session where children can create their own ancient-inspired crafts.

• Dates: Tuesday 27th May & Thursday 29th May 2025

• Time: 10am – 1pm

• Cost: £4 per child (Drop-in, no booking required)

Free places are available for children from low-income families (proof required).

Let your kids explore creativity with mammoth-themed crafts and more! For details, visit Hertford Museum’s website or call 01992 582686.

Venue:
Hertford Museum, 18 Bull Plain, Hertford, SG14 1DT

UPCOMING WORKSHOPS

Upcoming Adult Learning & Employment Workshops in Hertfordshire

Step2Skills offers affordable adult learning and employment support across Hertfordshire, with taster sessions from just £5. Their upcoming workshops and courses include:

• Public Speaking & Presentation Skills: Starts Wednesday 4th June

• Boost Your Confidence: Thursday 5th June

• Online Job Search & Applications: Monday 9th June

• Introduction to Digital Marketing: Starts Wednesday 11th June

• Improving Skills in Microsoft Excel: Starts Wednesday 11th June

• Protecting Children Online: Thursday 12th June

• Setting Up Your Own Business: Starts Thursday 12th June

• Introduction to Mental Health & Wellbeing: Starts Thursday 12th June

• Staying Safe Online: Thursday 12th June

• Smart Living with AI: Thursday 26th June

Step2Skills empowers adults to upskill, improve employability, and build confidence in a friendly learning environment.

Free STANTA Workshops for Local Startups

STANTA offers free workshops for St Albans and Harpenden businesses under 5 years old through the Get Enterprising programme. Upcoming topics include marketing plans, mental health for entrepreneurs, Facebook/Instagram ads, Google Analytics, networking, and SEO.

To register, call 01727 837760 or email [email protected].

BANK HOLIDAY MONDAY WEATHER 🌦️ 

WELWYN GARDEN CITY

16°C 🌡️ 12°C | 🌧️ Light rain showers and a moderate breeze | ☀️ Sunrise 04:54 Sunset 21:02

STEVENAGE

15°C 🌡️ 12°C | 🌧️ Drizzle and a gentle breeze | ☀️ Sunrise 04:54 Sunset 21:02

HERTFORD

16°C 🌡️ 12°C | 🌧️ Light rain and a gentle breeze | ☀️ Sunrise 04:54 Sunset 21:02

LETCHWORTH GARDEN CITY

15°C 🌡️ 12°C | ☁️ Light rain and a moderate breeze | ☀️ Sunrise 04:54 Sunset 21:02

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Cheers,
Editor-in-chief | Emeka Ogbonnaya

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