Happy Friday – it’s 4th April!

Yes, April is here already—and with it, some seriously summer-like weather. Time to finally ditch those jackets (for real this time). It’s also the last day of term, which means the kids are about to reclaim the house. Hopefully, you've got some fun activities planned as we roll into the Easter break.

No need to stress about plans—we’ve rounded up the best Easter events for families, so you don’t have to go hunting. And don’t miss our brand new limited-edition merch drop at the bottom of this email—it’s space-themed, bold, and built for the whole family. Not just Broxtown gear... it’s an intergalactic look.

Now, here’s what’s making headlines in Broxtown today:

🛣️ MP Lewis Cocking shares local frustrations over unmanned roadworks
🚨 Calls for tougher stance on persistent antisocial behaviour
🗳️ Full list of candidates for May’s County Council election released
🪐 LIMITED-EDITION SPACE MERCH DROP – AVAILABLE NOW!

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News at a Glance

I'm at War with Roadworks: MP Lewis Cocking Shares Local Frustrations

During my recent Broxtown interview with Lewis Cocking—his very first podcast as MP for Broxbourne—one of the most passionate moments came when we touched on local transport and the daily frustration of roadworks.

“I’m at war, so to speak, with all the utility companies digging up our roads,” he told me, clearly fed up. “It infuriates me—and I know it drives residents mad too.”

He didn’t hold back in describing the chaos of sitting in traffic caused by roadworks that, in his words, “go on for weeks under the emergency procedure,” yet often with no workers in sight. “If it’s an emergency, get it fixed quickly,” he said. “People just want to get to work, get their kids to school, or do the shopping without being stuck in endless queues.”

It was a candid and relatable moment that showed the MP is fully aware of how deeply this issue affects our day-to-day lives. He said he receives a constant stream of emails from constituents and is pushing utility companies to be more accountable.

As a local myself, I know how frustrating this has become. It was good to hear our MP reflect those concerns with urgency and genuine emotion. Here’s hoping the pressure he’s applying brings real change soon.

Why Should They Have That Right?” MP Calls for Tougher Stance on Antisocial Behaviour

One of the most striking parts of my conversation with MP Lewis Cocking was when we discussed antisocial behaviour across Broxbourne. It’s something many of you have raised with us here at Broxtown, and it’s clear the MP is taking the issue seriously.

“We’ve got to crack down on persistent antisocial behaviour,” he told me. “And yes, I think we need to ask the tough question: if someone is constantly causing problems for their neighbours and the police, should they still have the privilege of a council house?”

He was quick to clarify this wasn’t about blaming parents or oversimplifying complex situations. “It’s not easy being a parent, especially with the pressures of social media,” he acknowledged. “But everyone—from schools to families to the police—has to play a part in creating safer, kinder communities.”

As a father and someone who speaks with local families regularly, I appreciated his honesty. He wasn’t afraid to tackle the difficult questions, including whether local housing policies need to be updated to prioritise residents who are respectful and community-minded.

It’s a debate worth having, and I’m glad we could open that conversation on our platform.

🗳️ Local Elections Set for 1st May – See Who’s Standing in Your Area

Residents across Broxbourne and the wider Hertfordshire county will be heading to the polls on Thursday 1st May 2025, as the latest County Council elections take place.

The full list of candidates standing for election has just been released—giving voters the opportunity to see exactly who’s hoping to represent their local division at County Hall. From established councillors seeking re-election to first-time hopefuls bringing fresh ideas, the line-up is now live.

These elections play a major role in shaping local decisions that affect our day-to-day lives—from schools and roads to libraries, youth services, public health, and care for older people. If you care about how these services are run, this is your chance to have a say.

🗂️ Want to know who’s standing in your area?
👉 Click here to see the list of candidates in your division.

Whether you're a regular voter or planning to cast your ballot for the first time, take a moment to read up on the candidates and what they stand for.

🗳️ Don’t forget: Polls will be open from 7am to 10pm on Thursday 1st May. Make sure you're registered to vote and that your ID is ready to go.

We’ll be keeping a close eye on the campaign trail and will share highlights and interviews with key candidates in the run-up to election day—so stay tuned right here on Broxtown.

Broxbourne Goes Intergalactic With Limited-Edition Space Merch Drop

Move over, NASA—Broxbourne is making its mark in the cosmos. This week marks the launch of the BroxTown Space Edition, a bold, limited-edition merch collection that reimagines our borough not just as a Hertfordshire hub, but as a launchpad for intergalactic pride. Why space? Because Broxbourne isn’t ordinary—it’s extraordinary. It’s extra-terrestrial.

A Borough Built on Exploration

From the River Lea to Flamstead End’s tucked-away footpaths, Broxbourne thrives on curiosity. Whether you’re strolling through Goffs Oak, cycling across Hoddesdon, or reflecting over coffee in Cheshunt, there's a sense of momentum here—a true explorer’s spirit. This collection is crafted for those who navigate their community with purpose and adventure.

A Community that Rises Together

In Turnford, Waltham Cross, Wormley, or Bury Green, neighbours consistently lift one another, champion local initiatives, and collectively shape the future. Whether coaching youth football, leading a small business, or volunteering locally, Broxbourne residents embody collaboration, ambition, and community spirit.

Everyday Life, Elevated

Everyday life in Broxbourne carries its own brilliance—from teachers in Goffs Oak classrooms to creators in Broxbourne studios, and mentors on Wormley sports fields. The Space Edition merch celebrates these vibrant community moments with stylish and meaningful designs.

Merch with Meaning

The collection includes:

• "BroxTown Space Agency": Vintage NASA-inspired tees blending nostalgia and local pride.

• "Launch Site: Broxbourne": Comfortable hoodies designed for daily hustle and ambition.

• "Broxtown State Of Mind": Modern snapbacks for local philosophers.

• "I Need My Space (But I’ll Share Broxbourne)": Apparel highlighting the borough’s quiet strength and community values.

• “BroxTown is Out of This World”: Express your local pride with a cosmic twist.

• “Powered by Stories, Rooted in Broxbourne”: Celebrating the diverse stories from local people, leaders, and businesses.

This collection is more than clothing—it's a declaration of local pride, stitching Broxbourne’s future into every thread. Available exclusively online, the Space Edition merch is limited. Once it’s gone, it's gone.

How to Join the Mission

• Shop the limited collection online.

• Participate in our social media giveaway by tagging your photos with #BroxTownToTheStars.

• Consider the Space Edition merch as a thoughtful Easter gift alternative this year.

Final Transmission

This merch isn’t merely apparel—it's a cultural artifact. For the dreamers in Hoddesdon, the doers in Waltham Cross, and the young football legends in Wormley, it’s your wearable Broxbourne pride for 2025.

Ground control to Broxbourne: your merch is ready for liftoff.

P.S. Stay tuned on Instagram for our playful "Broxbourne vs. Mars" meme battle. Spoiler: our kebabs are unbeatable.

🎙️ New Episode – Voices of Our Towns
Featuring Roxanne Lawrence, CEO of Teens Unite Fighting Cancer

In this latest episode, we sit down with Roxanne Lawrence to explore the incredible work of Broxbourne-based charity Teens Unite.

Roxanne shares insights on:
🏠 Their recent move to a new home
🛍️ The opening of a new outlet store
📈 Their bold 10-year plan to support 30,000 young people

It’s a powerful conversation about purpose, progress, and community impact.

🎧 Listen now via the link in bio or on your favourite podcast platform.

MEME of The Day

FOODIE GEM

Celebrate Easter Sunday in Style at The Goff’s Oak

Easter Sunday just wouldn’t be the same without a traditional roast — and at The Goff’s Oak, they’re pulling out all the stops.

Guests can look forward to crispy roast potatoes, fluffy Yorkshire puddings, and succulent, perfectly cooked meats, all served with seasonal vegetables, rich gravy, and all the classic trimmings that make Easter special.

Whether it’s a family gathering, a celebration with friends, or a relaxing Sunday meal, The Goff’s Oak offers the perfect setting to enjoy a warm, hearty feast in comfort and style.

🌷 The Easter menu will be served on Sunday 1st April, and tables are booking up fast.

📲 To secure a spot, guests are encouraged to click the link in the bio and reserve early.

UPCOMING EVENTS

The Big Herts Hero Hunt – Interactive Theatre for Families!

🎭 The Big Herts Hero Hunt – Interactive Theatre for Families!

🦸‍♀️🦸‍♂️ Calling all young adventurers! This Easter holiday, join the hunt for Hertfordshire's hidden heroes in The Big Herts Hero Hunt — a fun, interactive theatre show that uncovers the amazing stories of local legends from the past.

Aimed at children aged 6+ and their families, this engaging and educational performance promises mystery, laughter, and a journey through Hertfordshire's rich heritage — all for just £4 per ticket!

📍 Tour Dates & Locations:

• 🦸‍♀️ Welwyn Garden City Central Library – Monday 14 April, 10:30am – 11:30am

• 🦸‍♂️ Ware Library – Monday 14 April, 2:00pm – 3:00pm

• 🦸‍♀️ Harpenden Library – Tuesday 15 April, 10:30am – 11:30am

• 🦸‍♂️ Watford Central Library – Tuesday 15 April, 2:00pm – 3:00pm

🎟️ Spaces are limited, so book early to avoid disappointment!
👉 Find out more and grab your tickets here:

Perfect for families looking to mix learning with adventure, The Big Herts Hero Hunt is one of this Easter’s must-see events.

Easter Trail & Community Heroes Day at Cedars Park

Join us for a fun-filled afternoon at Cedars Park, Cheshunt as we celebrate Easter with a special visit from our local Police and PSCO team!

📅 Saturday, 5th April

🕛 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM

📍 Cedars Park, Cheshunt

🚓 Meet our Community Heroes

🚴 FREE Bike Marking – keep your bikes safe with help from local officers

🌼 Family Fun – stalls, creative activities, and a magical Easter Trail adventure for everyone to enjoy!

It’s the perfect chance to connect with your community, learn about safety, and enjoy a wonderful Easter celebration in the park.

🎉 Don’t miss it—we can’t wait to see you there!

Easter Adventure with Fifty Thrifty!

📆 Throughout the Easter Holidays
📍 Across Hertfordshire
💷 No cost or low cost

Looking for Easter fun that won’t break the bank? Hertfordshire County Council invites families to explore Fifty Thrifty—a treasure map of 50 free or low-cost adventuresacross the county! 🌟❤️

From hidden gems to fun-filled activities, there’s something magical for every family to enjoy this half term. Use the interactive Fifty Thrifty map to plan exciting days out and make unforgettable memories.

🎯 Start your Easter adventure here: https://orlo.uk/gTHnl

Let the exploring begin!

Big GIANT Easter Storytime Returns to Hoddesdon Library!

Easter fun is back at Hoddesdon Library with the much-loved Big GIANT Easter Storytime — and it's set to be eggstra special!

Join in for: ✨ Fun stories & rhymes

🎨 Easter-themed crafts

🥚 A magical Easter egg hunt!

🎟️ Tickets are £4 per child and spaces are limited, so early booking is essential to avoid disappointment.

📍 Book in person at Hoddesdon Library or online here: https://tinyurl.com/y3b8txxx

Let the Easter magic begin in Broxtown! 🐰📖

Hoddesdon Spring Fayre & Heritage Day

 📆 Saturday 12th April
📍 Hoddesdon Town Centre
🎟️ FREE Entry

Celebrate the season at Hoddesdon’s Spring Fayre & Heritage Day—a fun-filled event for the whole family! 🌼🏛️

Enjoy a vibrant day packed with:
🎠 Children’s rides
🚌 A vintage bus experience
🎶 Live entertainment
🛍️ Market stalls
…and plenty more surprises!

Bring your friends and family for a fantastic day out in the heart of Hoddesdon!

Weekend Weather ⛈️ 

Friday

21°C 🌡️ 5°C | ☀️ Sunny and a moderate breeze | ☀️ Sunrise 06:29 Sunset 19:38

Saturday

17°C 🌡️ 4°C | ☀️ Sunny and a moderate breeze | ☀️ Sunrise 06:27 Sunset 19:40

Sunday

13°C 🌡️ 2°C | ☀️ Sunny and a moderate breeze | ☀️ Sunrise 06:25 Sunset 19:41

FOOTBALL ⚽️ 

Tottenham’s Turmoil Deepens as Postecoglou Faces Fan Backlash

Chelsea 1 | 0 Tottenham Hotspur

Tottenham head coach Ange Postecoglou is facing growing scrutiny and increasing isolation following his side’s 1-0 defeat to Chelsea, marking their 16th loss of the season.

A controversial substitution and a disallowed equaliser sparked chants of "you don't know what you're doing" from frustrated away fans. Postecoglou’s response — cupping his ear after Pape Sarr’s ruled-out goal — only fuelled speculation of a deepening disconnect between the manager and supporters.

When asked, Postecoglou denied trying to provoke fans, saying he simply wanted to enjoy a rare moment of hope after a tough stretch. Yet this isn't the first clash — previous incidents after losses to Fulham, Leicester, and Bournemouth suggest tensions are building.

Now sitting 14th in the Premier League, and with nearly a full squad at his disposal, Postecoglou faces mounting pressure to turn things around before Spurs risk one of their worst seasons in the Premier League era.

Thanks for Reading—See You Tuesday!

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Have a fab day!

Cheers,
Editor-in-chief | Emeka Ogbonnaya

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