On her final full day as Mayor of Broxbourne, I had the privilege of sitting down with Councillor Sherrie McDaid for an exclusive conversation about her year in office. It was a warm, candid, and deeply insightful exchange—one that highlighted not just the responsibilities of civic duty, but the humanity, heart, and hope that defined her tenure.

From championing young carers and mental health to opening doors for young performers and bringing visibility to local groups, Cllr McDaid has left an undeniable mark on the borough. We talked about the proudest moments, the challenges of balancing family life with public service, and what she hopes her legacy will be as she passes the baton to her successor.

This is the kind of conversation you’ll want to hear in full—the podcast episode is now live, and I encourage you to give it a listen. In the meantime, here is a summary of the full interview and the reflections of a mayor whose year of service reminded us of the power of local leadership rooted in empathy and action.

Mixed Emotions and New Beginnings

“I’m feeling a mixture of emotions,” Cllr McDaid admitted, describing the experience of stepping down. “There’s some sadness, of course, but also a lot of excitement for what’s to come.”

She spoke warmly about the incoming mayor, Cllr Patsy Spears, expressing confidence in her leadership and optimism about the direction of the mayoral office. “I think she’s going to bring her own flavour to the role—it’s going to be really exciting to watch.”

From Community Member to Civic Leader

Reflecting on her early days in politics, McDaid admitted she hadn’t initially envisioned herself as mayor. “I just wanted to make a positive impact and get to know my community better. Over time, it naturally evolved. I saw others in the role and thought it was something I’d really enjoy.”

Her motivation has always been rooted in service, and the mayoral year provided countless opportunities to deepen that commitment.

Moments That Mattered

Among the many events she attended, one stands out: a local school talent contest where she served as a judge. The experience was so inspiring that it led to the inclusion of four student performers at the prestigious BOB Awards.

“The feedback from the students and the school was just amazing,” she shared. “It was really fulfilling. That’s something I’d love to see continued—giving young people a platform to perform at that level. It builds their confidence, gives them hope.”

While she acknowledged the impossibility of naming every meaningful event, she was quick to emphasise the warmth and hospitality she encountered across the borough: “Everywhere I went, people were welcoming and flexible. That’s something I’ll always carry with me.”

Championing Mental Health and Young Carers

At the start of her tenure, Mayor McDaid selected two charities to champion: Young Carers in Hertfordshire and HABS Strength in Mind Hubs. These weren’t random choices. They reflect a deeply personal passion for mental health and social mobility—values shaped by her own experiences as a teenager.

She recounted a painful incident from her youth where she lost friends overnight due to a violent episode involving a peer’s older sibling. “It was a big deal. But what helped me recover was getting into fitness and starting an apprenticeship in hairdressing. That built my confidence and social skills.”

It’s this journey—of resilience and self-belief—that underpins her advocacy. “Mental health is still a taboo topic in some circles. Even if all the opportunities are in front of you, if you’re not in the right place mentally, you can’t reach for them.”

Engaging Young People and Sparking Aspiration

Throughout her mayoral year, McDaid worked to connect with young residents. Beyond the Bob Awards, she attended school events, spoke to students about their goals, and encouraged self-belief.

“I always say, you miss 100% of the shots you don’t take. Sometimes people hold themselves back by comparing or thinking they don’t match up. But you have to go for it.”

Her own presence as a young-looking mayor often sparked surprise—and inspiration. “People would say, ‘Oh, you look young to be mayor,’ and I think that helps younger people see that leadership is not out of reach.”

Personal Sacrifices, Family Support

Serving as mayor is not without its challenges. “The hardest part was juggling everything—managing the diary, responding to invites, and still being there for my kids, who are 11 and 12.”

She credits her husband, children, mother-in-law, and wider support network for making it possible. “You don’t do it alone. It’s absolutely a team effort.”

Local Connections and Civic Growth

McDaid’s mayoralty wasn’t just ceremonial. She played an active role in connecting local businesses with council resources and championing community events—from International Play Day to Christmas markets and Green Week.

“I hope I’ve helped raise the profile of what the council does and helped local groups feel seen and supported.”

The Evolving Political Landscape

While careful not to comment deeply on partisan issues during her civic role, McDaid acknowledged recent shifts in local politics following the 2025 county elections.

“Democracy means people vote how they feel. It’s part of the process. What matters most is continuing to serve the borough with integrity and focus.”

Looking Ahead

As she steps back from the mayoral spotlight, McDaid is far from retiring from public life. She plans to reengage with volunteer groups like Friends of Barclay Park and Lowewood Museum, and encourages others to do the same.

“There are so many ways to get involved. Just ask. Even if you’re unsure, drop me a line and I’ll point you in the right direction.”

To the incoming mayor and future community leaders, her advice is clear: “Be open, approachable, and keep listening. Make the role your own. And don’t forget to take that chain photo!”

A Legacy of Connection

When asked about her legacy, McDaid paused. “I hope people felt I listened. That they felt appreciated. I hope I helped connect people and gave young people a reason to dream bigger.”

That legacy—of listening, lifting others, and leading with care—will no doubt remain long after her term ends. In a world that often glorifies politics for the sake of power, Cllr Sherrie McDaid reminds us what true public service looks like: showing up, staying grounded, and putting people first.

Thank You Madam Mayor!

On behalf of all Broxbourne residents—those who have met her, worked alongside her, invited her to their events, or simply felt represented by her presence—we extend our heartfelt thanks to Councillor Sherrie McDaid for her dedicated year of service as Mayor. From local businesses to community groups, schools to voluntary organisations, so many have been touched by her warmth, humility, and unwavering commitment. The borough sends her a collective message of gratitude for leading with heart, listening with intent, and serving with grace. Thank you all of us at MediaTown - parent company of Broxtown, Hertstown and Voices of Our towns Podcast.

Additional Information

While this editorial offers a thoughtful summary, it truly doesn’t do justice to the warmth, honesty, and depth of our full conversation with Mayor Sherrie McDaid. To hear her voice, her passion, and the stories that shaped her year as mayor, you need to listen to the full interview now—just click the link below. Then, forward it to everyone you know who wants to understand what gentle, humble, and community-rooted leadership really looks like. And if you haven’t already, make sure you’re subscribed to Voices of Our Towns so you never miss powerful exclusives like this—delivered straight to your inbox as they drop.

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Editor-in-chief | Emeka Ogbonnaya

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