Good morning and welcome to Broxtown!

It’s October 28th, the last week of October and the first day of Half Term. We are so excited you’ve joined us on this exciting ride with Broxtown, the one and only newsletter built by residents for residents. From local news to events, sports, and a sprinkle of fun, we’ve got all the quick updates you need, straight from our community to your inbox.

As you start your week, we've curated the top updates from the borough to keep you informed in under 5 minutes.;

• Crackdown on Car Meet Chaos

• Broxbourne Black Cab Driver Calls for Fare Awareness

• Fed-Up Broxbourne Residents Demand Respect for Local Nature

• Hoddesdon Residents Slam Van Driver for Reckless Parking

• Broxbourne Residents to Vote on Best Small Business Starting November 2!

• Road Closure on Fisherman’s Way Sparks Concerns

Before we dive in, a huge welcome to our new subscribers—so happy to have you here! 🎉 Got ideas or feedback? Share them with us. We want to make Broxtown your favorite local read!

Let’s get started! 💌

News at Glance

Crackdown on Car Meet Chaos: Broxbourne Police Enforce Dispersal Order to Combat Anti-Social Behaviour

In a bid to ensure public safety and curb anti-social behaviour, the Broxbourne Community Safety Partnership, part of Hertfordshire Constabulary, enforced a dispersal order on Sunday, October 27. The order was issued after reports surfaced of a potential car meet in the borough, bringing concerns about noise, dangerous driving, and community disruption.

Lasting for 13 hours until early Monday morning, the order, under Section 34 of the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014, granted officers additional authority to prevent individuals involved in or likely to engage in anti-social activities from re-entering the area for up to 48 hours. Violators faced the possibility of arrest or vehicle seizure.

Inspector Gerry Harrison from the Broxbourne Neighbourhood Policing Team emphasized, “This order allows us to act decisively against disruptive gatherings, helping our community feel safe. While not all car enthusiasts are disruptive, the order targets dangerous and anti-social behaviours that impact residents’ daily lives.”

Although no arrests have been confirmed, Broxbourne’s Neighbourhood Policing Team has made it clear: anti-social activities won’t be tolerated. This warning echoes across the borough as authorities remain vigilant to safeguard the community’s peace and safety.

Local Black Cab Misconceptions Lead to Missed Rides: Broxbourne Driver Calls for Fare Awareness

A wave of fare misconceptions is leading Broxbourne residents to shy away from local black cabs, fearing the high prices associated with London's iconic taxis. Many residents, uncertain about the price differences, mistakenly assume that taking a black cab in the borough could mean paying London rates.

Local cabbie Simeon Wilson expressed surprise at the widespread misunderstanding, noting that Broxbourne black cabs operate under a regulated fare structure, distinct from the notoriously high London rates. “People are often hesitant to approach us, but our fares are set by local standards, just like any other local taxi,” Wilson explained. He emphasized the borough’s role in licensing black cabs and regulating their meters to align with Broxbourne's fare policies.

Wilson, a passionate advocate for accessible transport, especially for residents with disabilities, added, “Our black cabs are wheelchair-friendly, and we’re here to support the community." His message to residents is clear: "Don’t avoid black cabs – we’re here to serve, and our fares won’t break the bank.”

With this plea, local drivers hope to dispel misunderstandings and encourage residents to take advantage of the convenient and community-minded services of Broxbourne’s black cab drivers.

Fed-Up Broxbourne Residents Demand Respect for Local Nature: ‘Take Your Litter Home!’

Broxbourne’s online community erupted this weekend as residents rallied against rising litter issues, calling out anti-social behaviour with passionate pleas for cleaner local spaces. In a heated social media post, one frustrated resident condemned drivers tossing litter from their cars, describing the situation as an escalating blight on Broxbourne’s natural beauty.

The outrage intensified as another user directed a pointed message to those gathering in car parks near Broxbourne Woods: “If you’re here to appreciate the nature, don’t spoil it. You’re in a car—take your rubbish home!”

With frustrations running high, locals exchanged not-so-kind words and advice, many suggesting that it might not be long before citizens step in to address littering firsthand. The message is loud and clear: Broxbourne residents are fed up, and they won’t stand for the disrespect of their cherished community spaces any longer.

Hoddesdon Residents Slam Van Driver for Reckless Parking and Missing MOT & Tax: Social Media Outcry Erupts

A storm of online outrage swept through Hoddesdon on Sunday as residents reacted to a van obstructing a pathway in the town center, showing little regard for accessibility or basic parking courtesy. A frustrated resident captured the van’s blatant disregard, posting photos that quickly drew attention—and further scrutiny.

Keen-eyed members of the community didn’t just stop at the parking issue; they noticed the van’s registration was missing both MOT and tax, igniting an even fiercer backlash. Comments poured in, with some questioning the driver’s judgment, while others called for stricter accountability.

Amidst the criticism, an individual claiming to be the driver stepped forward with an apology, citing a personal disorder as part of the reason behind the situation. The explanation, however, did little to soften community sentiment, as residents made it clear: anti-social behaviour, for any reason, won’t be tolerated in Hoddesdon.

Broxbourne MP Calls for Action: Sign the Petition to Save Winter Fuel Payments for Vulnerable Pensioners

Broxbourne's MP is urging residents to rally against the recent cut to Winter Fuel Payments, a decision that affects 16,614 pensioners across the borough. After Labour MPs voted to scrap the scheme on September 10, pensioners could lose up to £300—a critical lifeline in a winter that threatens to force many to choose between heating and eating.

Expressing his disapproval in Parliament, Broxbourne's MP highlighted the urgency of the issue: “This decision by the Labour Government shows clear disregard for our elderly residents who will face tough choices this winter." Emphasizing the need for community support, he called on residents to sign a petition opposing the cut, pledging his commitment to protect pensioners from what he described as "a heartless move."

The MP hopes Broxbourne’s pensioners won’t overlook Labour’s choice to slash support amidst rising living costs and invites everyone to stand together for those at risk of a harsh winter.

Nominations Closed: Broxbourne Residents to Vote on Best Small Business Starting November 2!

The nominations are in! With the Best Small Business Award nominations now closed, Broxbourne residents will soon have the opportunity to vote for their favorite local business. Voting opens on November 2 and runs through November 23, allowing the community to support the small businesses that make the borough unique.

The winning business will be honored at an awards ceremony on December 7, a night dedicated to celebrating Broxbourne’s entrepreneurial spirit and the contributions of local businesses. From now until voting begins, residents are encouraged to spread the word and rally support for their top picks as Broxbourne gets ready to crown its Best Small Business of the year.

Road Closure on Fisherman’s Way Sparks Concerns: Residents Question Timing of Thames Water’s Resurfacing Project

Thames Water’s planned resurfacing work on Fisherman’s Way, set to begin on November 5, is already causing concern among Broxbourne residents. The project, which will close access between Fisherman’s Way and Rye Road for three days, is expected to impact local traffic flow, with many residents questioning the timing of the closure and its potential disruption to daily routines, particularly for parents on school runs.

With work scheduled from 7:30 am to 5:30 pm during peak hours, parents dropping off and picking up children may face significant delays and detours. Many locals feel the project could have been better timed to align with the recent half-term break when road traffic was naturally lighter. By starting after the school holiday, Thames Water risks creating more congestion during an already busy period, potentially impacting families and commuters.

The closure is anticipated to create a ripple effect on local traffic, as vehicles are redirected to alternative routes that may struggle to handle the increased volume. Some residents expressed frustration over what they see as a missed opportunity for thoughtful planning. “It’s clear that some disruptions are unavoidable, but scheduling this during half-term would have been more considerate,” one resident commented.

While Thames Water assures that they will keep noise and vehicle movement to a minimum, residents are encouraged to use the designated diversion routes and plan for delays. Thames Water has provided contact details for anyone with queries or concerns, but as the community braces for potential delays, the hope is that future projects will better consider the rhythms of daily life in Broxbourne.

Calling All Writers: Join the Broxtown Team and Share Your Stories!"

Hey, Broxtown! Are you passionate about our community? Do you have a knack for storytelling? We’re on the lookout for local voices to join our Broxtown writing team and help bring the stories of our vibrant community to life!

Whether you’re a seasoned writer or just someone with a story to tell, we’d love to hear from you. Broxtown covers everything from local news, events, and lifestyle pieces to quirky stories that make Broxbourne unique. It’s all about capturing the spirit of our borough and connecting with neighbors in a fun, fresh way.

Got an idea for a story? Maybe you know a local business that deserves the spotlight, a community hero who deserves a shoutout, or a hidden gem that more people should know about. We want to help you share it! Writing for Broxtown is a great way to get involved, boost your portfolio, and become part of a growing community-led newsletter.

So, if you’re interested in writing for us, drop us a message! Let’s make Broxtown a place where everyone’s voice is heard. We can’t wait to see what stories you bring to the table.

Sports

Football

Arsenal 2 | 2 Liverpool

Arsenal’s title aspirations took a blow as they let a 2-1 lead slip in the final minutes, ending in a 2-2 draw with Liverpool at the Emirates. Despite goals from Bukayo Saka and Mikel Merino, defensive losses and a late counter by Mohamed Salah left Arsenal frustrated, falling five points behind leaders Manchester City.

Arteta admitted the position is far from ideal, saying, “You want to be five points ahead.” With City pulling away, Arsenal’s margin for error is shrinking in their race to finally dethrone the reigning champions.

Meme of the Day

Motivational Quotes

“You are who you are meant to be. Dance as if no one’s watching. Love as if it’s all you know. Dream as if you’ll live forever. Live as if you’ll die today.” — James Dean

Embrace your true self and live with all the passion you can muster. Let go of fears and dance, love, dream, and live with everything you’ve got—each moment is a beautiful opportunity to be fully alive.

“You do not find the happy life. You make it.” — Camilla Eyring Kimball

Happiness isn’t something waiting for you; it’s something you build each day. Start where you are, take small steps, and shape a life filled with joy, meaning, and purpose. The power to create happiness lies in your hands.

Word of the Day

USURP

Today’s Word of the Day is USURP - means to take a position of power or importance illegally or by force. It often implies taking over authority or rights that belong to someone else.

How to use it:

• "The rebel leader sought to usurp the throne, challenging the king’s rule."

• "In the meeting, she felt her colleague was trying to usurp her role by taking over her responsibilities without permission."

• "The company accused its competitor of attempting to usurp its patented technology, leading to a legal battle."

Usurp is often used in contexts where someone or something takes control in an unauthorised way, often disrupting the rightful order or hierarchy.

Submit the Word of the Day by clicking here. 👈️ 

Monday Weather

16°C 🌡️ 12°C | ☁️ Thick cloud and a moderate breeze | ☀️ Sunrise 06:48 Sunset 16:39

Refer us to win FREE Breakfast with 3 Friends

Join the Broxtown Big Breakfast Challenge this October. Click here for details of the challenge.

Refer with the link below for it to count.

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.

Thats all!

We'll see you again tomorrow bright and early!

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Have a wonderful rest of your day.

Cheers

Broxtown Newsletter Team