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Good morning and HapPy Monday!

Monday 31st March Roundup: Solar Spectacles, Mum Celebrations & Charity Crisis

Spring is in full swing across Hertfordshire! This weekend saw:
🌷 Heartwarming Mother's Day celebrations across all boroughs
🌘 A breathtaking partial solar eclipse lighting up our skies
⏰ Clocks springing forward (hope you've recovered that lost hour!)

Today's Top Stories:
❗ Local charities sound alarm over unsustainable demand amid economic pressures (exclusive CEO interview reveals stark challenges)
🗳️ Election countdown: Councils make final push for voter registrations
🏆 Hertford FC to honour 93-year-old volunteer John Staines this Saturday

Curious Update:
The Hertfordshire County Council website has gone unusually quiet – no news updates for a full week. We're investigating whether this is a technical glitch or policy change.

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News at a Glance

Record Numbers Turn to Charities as Crisis Deepens

In a recent interview with Broxtown editor Emeka, Roxanne Lawrence, CEO of Teens Unite Fighting Cancer, shared that the Broxbourne-based charity is facing surging demand for support, while donations are falling behind.

“As the cost of living crisis deepens, more young people are turning to us for help,” Roxanne said. “Our services are completely free—but maintaining them is getting harder.”

She noted that this trend isn't unique to Teens Unite. As a member of a national coalition of charity CEOs, Roxanne confirmed that charities across the UK are seeing the same pressures: increased demand, reduced giving.

While the charity’s retail store provides some income through thrifted purchases, Roxanne urged the community to step in. “Even small donations can go a long way—especially now.”

🎧 Full interview with Roxanne coming soon on the Voices of Our Towns podcast.

Hemel Hempstead Charity Founder Wins Community Hero Award!

Kerry-Anne Cooper, 62, founder of Liberty Tea Rooms & Community Hub, has been awarded the Community Award at the 2025 Hertfordshire Hero Awards for her decade-long service to vulnerable people in Hemel Hempstead.

Since 2013, Cooper has led efforts to create a welcoming space offering social, emotional, and practical support. In 2016, she moved the project to Bank Court, where it now runs a volunteer-led café, free courses, life skills sessions, and a food bank.

In a nomination video, local supporter Dan Stobbs praised her impact, saying she helped “countless people feel they belong.”

Accepting the award, Cooper said the win was for her “incredible volunteers and supporters,” adding, “I’m dyslexic, have ADHD and autism—but that’s why I did this. I believe in taking risks and building community.”

Now retired, she has handed over leadership to new CEO Richard Evans.

Want to get involved? Visit Liberty Tea Rooms’ website to learn more!

Exclusive Preview: Teens Unite CEO Reveals Big Plans in Upcoming Podcast

We sat down with Roxanne Lawrence, CEO of Teens Unite Fighting Cancer, for a special preview of an upcoming podcast interview—and she dropped some exciting hints about the charity’s future.

Founded 18 years ago, this Broxbourne-based organisation supports young people (13–24) through every stage of their cancer journey. From creative workshops and career mentoring to life-changing retreats, Teens Unite helps survivors rebuild confidence and reclaim their futures.

💬 "Cancer doesn’t define these young people," says Roxanne. "We give them the tools to rediscover their strength—and dream big again."

What’s Next?

• A brand-new retail store reopening soon, where every purchase funds their mission.

• The UK’s first-ever residential retreat for young cancer patients—coming to Broxbourne.

• Exclusive announcements (hinted at in the podcast—stay tuned!).

How to Help:
➡️ Donate | Volunteer | Shop
➡️ Visit teensunite.org to join their movement.

Want the full scoop? Listen to the podcast for Roxanne’s big reveal…

Pierre Bosdet Honoured with Ukraine Support Award at Hertfordshire Hero Awards

Pierre Bosdet was also recognised for his outstanding contributions to supporting Ukrainian refugees in Hertfordshire. He. received the Ukraine Support Award at the Heart Hertfordshire Hero Awards 2025.

Deputy Chief Executive Scott Crudgington presented the award, commending Pierre’s dedication to helping displaced families find safety and community in the county.

Those inspired to assist can learn more about hosting or supporting Ukraine guests at website.

Your Vote Matters – Don’t Miss Your Chance!

The Hertfordshire County Council elections are on 1st May – but you can’t vote if you’re not registered!

✅ It only takes 5 minutes to register online (just need your National Insurance number).
⏰ Deadline: 11th April – don’t wait!

📢 Already registered? Check your polling station or postal vote details.

🔗 Register now: https://orlo.uk/5Fduk
ℹ️ Election info: https://orlo.uk/pgze7

NEWS FROM AROUND YOU

EAST HERTS

Standing in the May 2025 Elections? Don’t Miss the Deadline!

East Herts Council is reminding anyone planning to stand as a candidate—or act as an agent—for the Hertfordshire County Council elections this May to be aware of important changes and key dates.

Due to updates under the Elections Act 2022, there are new rules around nominations and how voting takes place.

🗓️ Deadline to apply: Wednesday 2 April at 4pm

📞 For more information, contact the Electoral Services team at [email protected] or call 01279 655261.

NORTH HERTS

Baldock Road Rec Infant Play Area Set for Upgrade

Improvement works on the infant play area at Baldock Road Rec will begin on Monday 31 March, lasting around six weeks.

The upgrade includes new play equipment tailored for younger children, with features like climbing, balancing, and rotating elements—some of which are inclusive. Mounding will also be added for visual separation and extra play value. The design follows feedback from the 2024 public consultation, focusing on sensory and imaginative play.

Please note: the infant play area will be closed during the works, but all other facilities—including the football pitches, senior play area, outdoor gym, and skate park—will remain open.

Residents Invited to Share Views on Proposed Parish Electoral Changes

North Herts Council is inviting residents to provide feedback on proposed changes to local parish electoral arrangements as part of the ongoing Community Governance Review (CGR).

The draft proposals have been shaped by feedback received during the initial consultation phase, which closed in October 2024.

Key proposals include:

⚫ Aligning parish council elections with district council elections, so they are held in the same year
⚫ Amending boundaries or adjusting the number of parish councillors in some areas
⚫ Redrawing certain parish ward boundaries
⚫ Establishing new Town Councils in Baldock, Hitchin, and Letchworth

These changes could significantly impact local governance. North Herts Council is encouraging all residents to have their say—whether they support or oppose the proposals.

🗓️ Consultation closes: 9 May 2025
🔗 Share your views: north-herts.gov.uk/community-governance-review

WELWYN HATFIELD

Last Chance to Save on Solar Panels and Battery Storage!

Time is running out to join the Solar Together scheme and unlock big savings on solar panels, battery storage, and EV chargers through a trusted group-buying initiative.

💸 Register by April 4 to qualify for exclusive discounts and receive a personalised offer from a vetted installer.

Whether you're looking to cut energy bills or charge your EV at home for free, this is a unique opportunity to invest in a greener future.

👉 Sign up now: https://orlo.uk/BYWdn
👉 Or get your tailored offer: https://orlo.uk/HK30G

Don’t miss out—this campaign ends soon!

🌍 Climate Awareness Training – A Free Learning Opportunity

Welwyn Hatfield residents are invited to take part in a free Climate Awareness Training programme designed to empower individuals to take action for a greener future.

This short, 20-minute online training is accessible on any device and offers:

✅ A clear understanding of key climate and environmental issues
✅ Practical tips to reduce personal and community impact
✅ Insight into local sustainability initiatives across Welwyn Hatfield

The training is ideal for anyone looking to make a positive difference. Participants are encouraged to share feedback upon completion via [email protected].

👉 Start the training here: https://orlo.uk/z4GAD

🎉 HAPpy Easter Camps – Book Now!

📅 Easter Holidays
📍 Across Hertfordshire
💷 FREE for children on benefits-related free school meals

Fun activities, games, and a hot lunch—all at no cost! HAPpy Camps are back this Easter, funded by HCC and the DfE, and open to eligible children across the county.

📌 Need a booking code? Contact your school office.

Don't miss out—spaces are filling fast!

CLASSIFIED - JOBS

💼 Job Opportunities at North Herts Council

📞 Careline Operators (x2)

North Herts Council is hiring two Careline Operators to join the dedicated Careline Team.
This role involves handling emergency and non-emergency calls from vulnerable residents, requiring excellent listening skills and the confidence to make decisions based on set procedures.

🗓️ Closing date: 7 April 2025
🔗 Find out more and apply

🍹 Casual Bar & Events Assistant – Hitchin Town Hall

Join the busy events team at Hitchin Town Hall, delivering professional and friendly food and drink service at a wide range of community and private events.

📧 To apply, send your CV to: [email protected]
🔗 More information here

Come be part of a team making a difference in your local community!

SKILLS WORKSHOP

🌍 Climate Awareness Training – A Free Learning Opportunity

Welwyn Hatfield residents are invited to take part in a free Climate Awareness Training programme designed to empower individuals to take action for a greener future.

This short, 20-minute online training is accessible on any device and offers:

✅ A clear understanding of key climate and environmental issues
✅ Practical tips to reduce personal and community impact
✅ Insight into local sustainability initiatives across Welwyn Hatfield

The training is ideal for anyone looking to make a positive difference. Participants are encouraged to share feedback upon completion via [email protected].

👉 Start the training here: https://orlo.uk/z4GAD

UPCOMING EVENTS

🎉 Free Entry as Hertford Town FC Celebrates John’s 93rd!

Hertford Town FC vs Flackwell Heath
📅 Saturday 5th April | 🕒 3:00 PM Kick-off
📍 Hertingfordbury Park | 🎟️ Free Entry

Hertford Town FC is offering free entry to all fans to celebrate the 93rd birthday of longtime volunteer John Staines, the club’s much-loved car park steward.

John has never missed a home game, and when asked what he wanted for his birthday, he simply said: "1,000 people at the match."

To honour him, manager Ben Herd is waiving the usual £10 entry fee.
Let’s help make John’s birthday wish come true and pack the stands!

🎨 HArts Fest 2025 – Two Weeks to Go!

📅 Saturday 12th April 2025
🕛 12pm – 4pm
📍 Hertford Castle

HArts Fest 2025 is nearly here! Join us for a vibrant celebration of art, literature, and creativity in the beautiful grounds of Hertford Castle.

Enjoy a packed afternoon of activities including:
🎨 Easter-themed art fun with Wonder Den
📚 Rhyme Time & Toddler Tales with Hertford Library
✍️ Craft & writing workshops led by local authors
🎶 Live music and dance performances
🧘‍♀️ Children’s mindfulness yoga with Boxmoor Yoga
📖 Free Book Exchange with Herts Book Festival – bring a book, take a book!
🌭 Plus, enjoy delicious food and drink from local stalls!

✨ A perfect family day out celebrating Hertfordshire’s creative community.
🔗 Full event details: https://ow.ly/iQEB50VnmR7

🏰 “Within These Walls” – Evening Tours at Hertford Castle

Step back in time with a one-hour outdoor guided tour of Hertford Castle, led by the knowledgeable Friends of Hertford Castle. Discover the fascinating history of this iconic landmark and explore stories spanning centuries.

🕡 Time: 6:30pm – 7:30pm
📍 Hertford Castle
🎟️ Tickets: £5 per person (in support of the Mayor of Hertford Charity Appeal Fund)

📅 Tour Dates:

• Wednesday 14th May

• Wednesday 18th June

• Wednesday 9th July

• Wednesday 13th August

Spaces are limited—book early to secure your spot!
🔗 Book now

Hertford Castle's 2025 Free Events Lineup Revealed!

Hertford Town Council presents a year of free events at the historic castle:

🎶 Music Festival
👨👩👧👦 Family Fun Days
🚗 Mega Car Show
🌈 Family Pride Day
🌱 Eco Fest (NEW!)
🏰 Heritage Day
🎄 Christmas Weekend

Many events include castle open days. Save the dates!

🔗 Follow @HertfordCastle for updates

All welcome - no tickets needed!

🐰 Meet Peter Rabbit at The Howard Centre!

📅 Wednesday 16th April
🕙 10am – 11am & 2pm – 3pm
📍 The Howard Centre, Welwyn Garden City

Hop on down for a special Easter treat! Beloved children’s character Peter Rabbit will be making a magical appearance at The Howard Centre. Bring the little ones along for smiles, cuddles, and photo opportunities with everyone’s favourite bunny!

This is a free event—no booking required. Don’t forget your camera! 📸

🔍 Easter Xplorer – Free Family Adventure!

📅 Tuesday 9th – Tuesday 16th April
🕙 10am – 2pm daily
📍 Collect your map from the Kiosk next to Splashlands
🎟️ FREE Event
🔗 More info

Get outdoors this Easter with Easter Xplorer, a fun and family-friendly navigational game hosted by GLL! 🐣🐰🗺️

Follow the map, find the Easter-themed markers, and enjoy an exciting adventure around the park. Perfect for all ages!

No booking needed—just turn up and start exploring!

🐣 Easter Events at BEAM Hertford

Celebrate this Easter season with a variety of performances and activities at BEAM Hertford. From family-friendly shows to engaging workshops, there's something for everyone.

🎭 Farm Boy
Dates: 15 April 2025, 2:00 PM and 6:00 PM
Description: A heartwarming tale that continues the story of "War Horse," exploring the bonds between grandfather and grandson, and their shared love for farming and horses.
Tickets: Purchase here​BEAM Hertford

🎨 Easter Craft Workshops
Dates: Various dates throughout April
Description: Join our creative workshops where children can make their own Easter-themed crafts to take home. Suitable for ages 5-12.
Tickets: Purchase here​

🐰 Easter Egg Hunt
Date: 20 April 2025, 10:00 AM
Description: Bring the whole family for a fun-filled Easter Egg Hunt around the BEAM premises. Prizes for the most eggs collected!
Tickets: Purchase here​BEAM Hertford

🎶 Children's Easter Concert
Date: 22 April 2025, 3:00 PM
Description: Enjoy a lively concert featuring local children's choirs singing Easter and springtime favorites.
Tickets: Purchase here​

🎥 Easter Family Film Screenings
Dates: Various dates throughout April
Description: Special screenings of family-friendly films to celebrate the Easter season. Check our website for the full schedule.
Tickets: Purchase here​

MONDAY WEATHER ☀️ 

WELWYN GARDEN CITY

16°C 🌡️ 3°C | ☀️ Light cloud and a gentle breeze | ☀️ Sunrise 06:39 Sunset 19:32

STEVENAGE

16°C 🌡️ 3°C | ☀️ Light cloud and a gentle breeze | ☀️ Sunrise 06:39 Sunset 19:32

HERTFORD

16°C 🌡️ 3°C | ☀️ Light cloud and a gentle breeze | ☀️ Sunrise 06:39 Sunset 19:32

LETCHWORTH GARDEN CITY

16°C 🌡️ 3°C | ☀️ Light cloud and a gentle breeze | ☀️ Sunrise 06:39 Sunset 19:32

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Wishing you a fantastic rest of your day!

Cheers,
Editor-in-chief | Emeka Ogbonnaya

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