🌟 Good Morning, Broxtown! 🌟

It’s Monday, 9th December, and what a whirlwind weekend it’s been—literally, with Storm Darragh making headlines. Thankfully, our borough escaped unscathed, unlike nearby Waltham Abbey, where many faced power outages only momentarily. Trains are running fine too.

Today, we take a moment to reflect on the Broxtown Community Champion Award presentation from the weekend, sharing highlights and behind-the-scenes stories about our well-deserved winner. Plus, we reveal the champion of the MP’s Small Business Competition and celebrate their incredible achievement.

And of course, we’ve got you covered with events happening today and throughout the week. Stay tuned—it’s going to be a good one! 🎉

A warm welcome to all our new subscribers—welcome to the Broxtown family! Got feedback or ideas? Drop us a line; we’re here to make Broxtown your favorite local read. 🎄✨ 💌

Let’s do this!

The Broxtown Community Champion Award Presentation

Last night was truly unforgettable as we celebrated the Broxtown Community Champion Award at the fantastic Hertfordshire Studios in Hoddesdon Town Centre. Despite the gusty winds and relentless rain brought by Storm Darragh, the atmosphere inside the studio was warm and vibrant, thanks to an incredible pantomime performance of Jack and the Beanstalk, an amazing cast, and an audience filled with members of the community.

The Award Presentation

As the show concluded, I had the honor of taking the stage to announce the winner of this year’s competition and present the coveted award to Kev Orkian, a true community hero. Kev, ever the gentleman, accepted the gift and certificate with grace and humility. In his acceptance speech, Kev dedicated the award to the hardworking team at Hertfordshire Studios—the admin staff, light and sound crews, tech teams, and behind-the-scenes workers who make every show possible.

It was a powerful moment that perfectly reflected Kev’s character and the spirit of community he embodies. He also took a moment to thank everyone who voted for him and shared some exciting plans for Hertfordshire Studios in 2025.

Meeting the Runner-Up

In a wonderful twist of events, Maria Vaciago, our runner-up, and her family were invited to the pantomime by Kev himself. Meeting Maria in person was an absolute delight. Her kind words and glowing review of Broxtown were a personal highlight for me and a testament to the connections we aim to build through this platform.

We took the opportunity to capture some memorable photos together, along with the cast of the show. It was heartwarming to see the camaraderie and support within our community.

Behind the Scenes at Hertfordshire Studios

During the evening, I took the chance to learn more about what makes Hertfordshire Studios such a cornerstone of our borough. The work happening here is nothing short of extraordinary. Week after week, the studio is buzzing with activities that bring people together, foster creativity, and strengthen community bonds.

• Stitch and Bitch Club: Every Tuesday, a dedicated group of community members gathers to sew and mend costumes for productions. These women volunteer their time and energy, showing up without fail to contribute to something larger than themselves.

• Community Concerts: Weekly performances by singers and comedians bring joy and entertainment to the community, creating a space where families and individuals can connect.

• A Home for Connection: With over 300 active members, Hertfordshire Studios has become more than just a venue—it’s a home where connections are built, and friendships flourish.

Kev’s leadership and his team’s dedication to running this vibrant hub are nothing short of inspiring. Their efforts have created a space where the community feels valued, supported, and united.

A Well-Deserved Win

Congratulations again to Kev Orkian for winning the Broxtown Community Champion Award 2024. This recognition is a reflection of the incredible impact you’ve had on our community, and it is well-deserved.

Looking Ahead to 2025

As we close the chapter on this year’s awards, we’re already looking ahead to 2025. Could you be next year’s Broxtown Community Champion? We’ll announce the nomination process soon, and we’re planning an even bigger celebration, complete with bubbly and small bites, to honor our next round of champions.

To everyone who voted, supported, or simply cheered from the sidelines—thank you. To all our nominees, your contributions to Broxbourne Borough have not gone unnoticed. Even if you weren’t awarded this time, your efforts are deeply appreciated, and we look forward to recognising more community heroes in the future.

BIRTHDAY SHOUTOUT

🎉 A Big Birthday Shoutout to Maria! 🎉

In the past weeks Maria has been a true champion for Broxtown, encouraging members of the community to sign up and spreading the word about what we do. As a result, Maria has earned a well-deserved birthday shoutout from all of us at Broxtown!

Today, we celebrate not only another year in Maria’s amazing life but also her incredible contributions to our community. She continues to inspire with her stories, empowering children to build confidence at school and beyond. Happy Birthday, Maria! 🥳 Wishing you a fantastic day filled with joy and laughter.

Want your own birthday shoutout? 🎂 It’s simple:

• Refer 3 friends or family members to sign up for Broxtown, and you’ll get a shoutout for your special day!

• Refer 5 or more, and unlock even more exciting rewards (check below for details)!

Let’s celebrate and keep building the Broxtown community together. 🎉

NEWS AT GLANCE

Lee Valley Dog Training School Crowned Best Small Business in Broxbourne

The search for Broxbourne’s best small business has concluded, and over the weekend, the title was awarded to Lee Valley Dog Training School as part of the MP’s Small Business Competition.

The competition saw fierce nominations and voting, but the dog training school emerged victorious, earning recognition for their exceptional service and dedication to the community—both to its residents and their furry companions.

The MP shared his congratulations on social media, writing:
"Congratulations to Lee Valley Dog Training School on receiving the most votes from the people of Broxbourne. Great to join you this morning to see the work you're doing every week to help dogs and their owners learn important new skills."

This win is a testament to the school’s commitment to improving the lives of dogs and their owners while highlighting the value of small businesses that prioritize community impact alongside service excellence.

Looking ahead to the 2025 competition, the MP added, "Are you ready?"

Congratulations to Lee Valley Dog Training School—a well-deserved win! 🎉🐾

“Tourists” in Waltham Cross Revealed as Local Content Creators

Last Friday, we reported sightings of “Americans” exploring Waltham Cross, but the mystery has been solved! These aren’t tourists from abroad—they’re locals from Cheshunt, led by the talented Lewis Brown, who have been creating hilarious and lighthearted content by parodying tourist adventures in towns across the area.

Lewis and his team have been visiting notable landmarks, giving them a comedic twist that’s left viewers in stitches. When we approached them to learn more (and even offered to organise a tour of Broxbourne), he revealed he’s from our very own borough, proudly representing Broxbourne.

His content has already expanded beyond the borough, with stops as far as Slough, and his humour knows no bounds. These creators are shining a fun and unique light on the places we all know and love.

We highly recommend following him on Instagram for more fun and comedic content that’s sure to brighten your day. Don’t miss out on the laughs—these lads are putting Broxbourne on the comedy map! 🎭😂

Waltham Cross Sunday Market is Open All December! 🎅🎁🛍️

Good news! The Waltham Cross Sunday Market will remain open throughout December to bring you festive cheer and great shopping.

📅 Dates: 8th, 15th, and 22nd December
🕙 Time: 10 AM – 4 PM

🚗 Parking is available at Eleanor Cross Road Car Park and the Pavilions Shopping Centre.

Don’t miss out on your chance to shop local and enjoy the holiday atmosphere! 🎄✨

EVENTS

🎄 You’re Invited to a Christmas Special! 🎄

Christmas is here, and amidst the shopping and festive buzz, Jubilee Church London is bringing the true Christmas story to life in a spectacular way. Over 2,000 years ago, the birth of Jesus Christ sparked a story that continues to inspire and unite people globally, and this year, Jubilee Church London has something truly special planned.

📅 Date: Sunday, 15th December
📍 Location: Jubilee Church London, Enfield Cineworld
💻 Can’t make it in person? Tune in online via YouTube!

Jubilee Church London, with branches in Harlow, Enfield, Ilford, and Wood Green, invites everyone—families, friends, and individuals—to join their Christmas Special Service. Experience powerful performances and uplifting messages that retell the story of Jesus’ birth, reminding us of the hope and joy of the season.

This is a family-friendly event you won’t want to miss. We’ve rated it 5 stars and can’t recommend it enough. Mark your calendars, bring your loved ones, and join in this magical celebration of Christmas! 🎉

Event: Waltham Cross Social Media & Digital Marketing Surgery

📅 Date: Today, 9th December
⏰ Time: 1:00 PM
📍 Location: Online (1-to-1 Sessions)

Details:
This exclusive digital marketing surgery is tailored to support Waltham Cross High Street businesses. Hosted by Michael Niles, an accredited business advisor and digital marketing trainer, these 45-minute 1-to-1 online sessions are designed to help you enhance your digital presence or lay the groundwork for a strong online start.

Topics Include:

• Social Media Strategies

• Website Development

• Search Engine Optimization (SEO)

• Content Marketing & Blogging

• Video and Podcasting Basics

• Marketing Planning

About the Host:
Michael Niles has extensive experience delivering training for organizations like Google Digital Garage, Lloyds Bank Academy, and Ambition Broxbourne.

Important Note:
This event is funded for residents and businesses in the Borough of Broxbourne and is specifically aimed at Waltham Cross High Street businesses. Bookings from outside the UK will not be accepted.

Don’t miss this valuable opportunity to boost your digital presence! 🎯

Event: Open Day at TEC & HEC Centres

📅 Date: Thursday, 12th December
🕒 Time: Book your slot now!
📍 Location: TEC & HEC Centres

Details:
Join us for an exclusive Open Day across our two centres—the final opportunity this year to explore our facilities and secure a January 2025 move-in date for your business!

Whether you're considering taking up office space, coworking, or simply want to discuss your business needs with our team, this is the perfect time to visit and learn more.

Already part of the TEC or HEC community?
This is a great chance to make a referral! If you know someone who’d benefit from joining our community, invite them to book a slot. Referral fees are available for both office spaces and coworking connections.

Don’t miss out—secure your slot now and take the next step for your business in 2025! 🎯

Crossover ‘25: A Night of Worship, Praise, and Celebration

This New Year’s Eve, Jubilee Church London is taking their iconic Crossover Service to new heights. Known for packing out Cineworld Enfield with thousands of worshippers, the church is boldly moving their end-of-year celebration to the Copper Box Arena in Stratford, inviting members of the communities in and around Enfield to join in giving thanks to God for His goodness and grace and crossing over into the New Year 2025.

What to Expect

• A Party Atmosphere Like No Other: Celebrate the New Year with singing, dancing, and worship centered on the Lord Jesus Christ.

• Powerful Worship: Be moved by passionate worship sessions and heartfelt preaching, as the church family gives thanks for the past year and commits the new one to God’s guidance and provision.

• A Bold Declaration: With their theme "London is the Lord’s," Jubilee Church invites everyone, regardless of background, to come together in unity to celebrate God’s goodness.

This year’s Crossover ‘25 promises to be the biggest yet—a night filled with joy, worship, and heartfelt gratitude for all that God has done.

This is an event you don’t want to miss! Join Jubilee Church London as they declare the start of a new year in faith and celebration.

Come celebrate with Jubilee Church London —because London is the Lord’s! 🎉.

📍 Copper Box Arena, Stratford, London, E20 3HB
🕰️ Doors Open: 8:30 PM, New Year’s Eve

Advertise with Broxtown and reach a highly engaged local audience eager to discover what’s new and exciting. With tailored packages to suit any budget, we’ll help your business stand out and connect with the customers that matter most.

📩 Get started today!

Monday Weather

8°C 🌡️ 6°C | ☁️ Light cloud and a moderate breeze | ☀️ Sunrise 07:55 Sunset 15:50

Meme of The Day

Broxtown referral program

While sharing Broxtown with your friends is a huge favour to us, we want to make sure your efforts don’t go unnoticed. To show our appreciation, we have some special rewards lined up for those who go above and beyond in helping us grow! 🏆🌟

• Get 3 friends or family to sign up and we will give you a birthday shout out.

• Get 5 folks to join and we will give you and your best mate a birthday shout out

• Get 15 and we’ll pay for your dinner with a friend at a secret restaurant in the Borough.

• Get 100 and I’ll give you a free Broxtown branded hoodie (£65 value).

• And if you somehow get 1,000 I will buy you a Spa Weekend for you and your best friend anywhere in Hertfordshire.

Thanks for Reading—See You Tomorrow!

Have questions or suggestions to improve our newsletter? Got a story to share? Email us at [email protected].

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Wishing you a fantastic rest of your day!

Cheers,
The Broxtown Team