Tuesday, 18th February: Half-Term Sunshine and Exciting Updates!

Happy Tuesday! The sun is finally shining, and it looks like it’s here to stay—just in time for Half-Term fun! Yesterday, I had the pleasure of meeting some fantastic local businesses, and today, I’m looking forward to connecting with a few more, as well as sharing coffee with some of our loyal readers.

This newsletter continues to break records in readership and reach, and I want to personally thank each of you for making it such a joy to create. Your messages and suggestions mean the world to me, and I’m excited to keep improving and bringing you even more valuable content.

In today’s edition:

• A review of the Council’s Year-End Report, presented by KPMG and scrutinised by the Audit and Standards Committee.

• A sneak peek into our exclusive podcast with Broxbourne MP Lewis Cocking (coming soon!).

• A special Community Spotlight on the incredible work of Teens Unite.

There’s so much more to share, so keep reading to the end!

A warm welcome to all our new subscribers—thank you for joining the Broxtown family! Got thoughts or suggestions? We’d love to hear from you. Let’s make Broxtown your go-to for everything local!

💌 Love this newsletter? Share it with a friend! Use your unique link below and earn rewards for spreading the word. Let’s grow this community together. 💌

News at a Glance

Council’s Year End Report With A Mixed Bag of Wins and Challenges

The Council’s Audit and Standards Committee met on Wednesday, 12th February 2025, to review the Borough of Broxbourne’s Year End Report for the year ending 31 March 2024, alongside the Statement of Accounts. Presented by KPMG LLP, the audit revealed both commendable achievements and areas needing improvement.

KPMG found no major weaknesses in financial sustainability, governance, or service efficiency—good news for taxpayers. Quarterly reviews and careful budgeting were praised for ensuring responsible use of public funds, and reliable assessments of post-retirement benefits confirmed sound actuarial practices.

However, KPMG issued a disclaimer on opening balances due to unresolved issues from the 2022/23 audit, affecting year-on-year comparisons. Additionally, duplicate valuations and misclassifications in property valuations highlighted gaps in internal review processes.

While the council demonstrates strong financial management, the audit flags critical areas for improvement. As Broxbourne works with KPMG to address these issues, residents can expect progress ahead of the next audit.

At Broxtown, we’ll continue to keep a close eye on the council’s proceedings, bringing you the latest updates and ensuring you’re always informed. As you continue to trust us, we’ll do the hard work of seeking out the information you need.

Broxbourne MP Lewis Cocking’s FIRST Podcast Appearance!

We’re thrilled to share that Lewis Cocking, Broxbourne’s very own MP, sat down with us for his FIRST EVER podcast interview since taking office—and it’s an absolute must-listen!

From local roadworks to financial support for seniors and even his take on national immigration policies, Lewis didn’t hold back. He shared his bold vision for Broxbourne, offering insights you won’t hear anywhere else.

This is a landmark episode you cannot afford to miss! We’re working hard to get it ready for you, so stay tuned and make sure you’re following us to be the first to know when it drops.

Get ready for an episode that’s set to spark conversations across the borough!

AI Tech Tackles Potholes in Hertfordshire

Hertfordshire County Council is trialling the ARRES Eye, an AI-powered road-scanning system from Robotiz3d, to detect and prevent potholes. The ARRES Eye, mounted on a vehicle, uses laser technology to identify road cracks and weaknesses in real time, helping engineers target repairs more efficiently.

Following a successful short trial last year, the system is now in long-term testing, surveying routes over several months to track road deterioration from winter weather. The aim is to spot early warning signs and address issues before potholes form.

Cllr Phil Bibby, Executive Member for Highways, emphasized: “Prevention is key, and this technology could help us stop potholes before they appear.”

To support road improvements, the council proposes a £6 million increase to the Highways Maintenance budget, potentially raising it to a record £100 million for 2025-2026.

Hertfordshire County Council Wants to Hear from YOU!

Have Your Say on Climate Change & Sustainability! 🌱Hertfordshire County Council is asking residents to share their thoughts on their efforts to tackle climate change and build a more sustainable region. Your feedback matters!

👉 Complete the Sustainability and Climate Change Survey and let them know what you think. Together, we can shape a greener, more sustainable future for Hertfordshire.

Don’t miss this chance to make your voice heard! Click on button to have your say.

Tiny Toes Nursery Kids Spread Love on Valentine’s Day!

This Valentine’s Day, the adorable kids from Tiny Toes Nursery took to the streets of Hoddesdon, spreading love and joy with their random acts of kindness. With their bright smiles and tiny hands, they marched into local businesses, handing out heartfelt gestures that left the community absolutely smitten!

From cheerful greetings to sweet surprises, these little ones brought more than just joy—they reminded everyone of the true spirit of love and kindness.

A huge THANK YOU to the children, their amazing teachers, and the wonderful parents who made it all possible. You’ve warmed our hearts and made this Valentine’s Day extra special! 💕

COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT

Teens Unite: Empowering Young Lives Beyond Cancer – A Special Report and Call to Action

Teens Unite, a remarkable charity, is transforming the lives of teenagers and young adults aged 13-24 who are living with and beyond cancer. Through tailored workshops, residential stays, and skill-building programs, the charity provides more than just support—it offers hope, friendship, and resilience to those navigating the challenges of cancer.

The statistics are sobering: 96% of young cancer survivors experience a negative impact on their mental health, 87% lose touch with friends, and 77% struggle to find work after treatment. Teens Unite steps in to bridge these gaps, helping young people rebuild their confidence and reclaim their futures.

The charity is now calling on the community to join its mission. Whether through donations, fundraising events, workplace partnerships, or personal challenges, everyone can play a part in empowering these young individuals.

💙 Donate | 🎉 Fundraise | 💪 Take on a Challenge | 🏢 Partner with Us

📞 01992 440091 | 📧 [email protected] | 🌐 www.teensunite.org

With the support of the community, Teens Unite aims to ensure that young people not only survive cancer but thrive beyond it.

Attention Talented Athletes Aged 11-30! 🏆

The Opportunity for Excellence Grant Scheme is here to help you reach your sporting potential!

🏋️ What’s on offer?
Successful applicants receive free memberships to local sports centres, giving you access to:

• State-of-the-art training facilities.

• Professional equipment to boost performance.

• A supportive community for aspiring athletes.

🌟 Who can apply?
Athletes aged 11-30 with exceptional skill and dedication to their sport.

📝 Apply Now!
Don’t miss your chance to take your training to the next level.

👉 Click here to learn more and apply today!

MEME of The Day

UPCOMING EVENTS

Hertfordshire Golf and Country Club Feeds Kids At Half Term For FREE!

Looking for a family-friendly dining experience? From 17th to 23rd February 2025, The Hertfordshire Golf & Country Club is offering an unbeatable deal: Kids Eat Free!

Here’s how it works:
🍽️ Purchase one adult main meal and get one kid’s main meal FREE!
👧 Valid for children aged 12 and under.

Why go?
✅ Enjoy delicious meals in a welcoming atmosphere.
✅ Make family dining more affordable.
✅ Relax while the kids enjoy tasty, kid-friendly options.

📍 Venue: The Hertfordshire Golf & Country Club
📅 Dates: 17th – 23rd February 2025

Don’t miss this limited-time offer—gather your family and enjoy a delightful meal together!

Grow Your Mind with Michelle at Step2Skills!

Join Michelle for an empowering 5-week online course designed to help you understand how the brain works, explore the connection between thoughts and feelings, and develop resilience, assertiveness, and mindfulness.

📅 Starts: Wednesday, 26th February 2025
📍 Delivered Online by expert teacher, Michelle
👤 For: Hertfordshire residents aged 19+

This course will help you:
🧠 Understand different mindsets
💪 Build resilience and assertiveness
✨ Practice mindfulness techniques

Don’t miss this chance to grow and thrive!

👉 Sign up today on the Step2Skills website and take the first step toward a stronger, more mindful you.

Half-Term Adventures Await with Fifty Thrifty!

This half-term, families in Hertfordshire can enjoy endless fun without breaking the bank with Fifty Thrifty—a collection of 50 ‘no cost’ or ‘low cost’ adventures across the county.

From scenic walks and hidden gems to exciting local activities, Fifty Thrifty offers something magical for everyone. Families can use the Fifty Thrifty map to plan their adventures and create unforgettable memories.

Don’t miss out—start exploring today and make this half-term one to remember!

Treat the Kids to an Unforgettable February Half Term!

Looking for something fun and exciting for the kids this February half term? Look no further than Kidz Klub!

From sports and dance to roller-skating, arts and crafts, and even swimming, there’s something for every child to enjoy. Let them burn off energy, get creative, and make unforgettable memories!

Activities Include:

• Sports 🏀

• Dance 💃

• Roller-skating 🛼

• Arts and Crafts 🎨

• Swimming 🏊‍♂️

• And more!

Spaces are limited, so don’t wait! Book now to avoid disappointment:

Give your kids the time of their lives this half term—sign up today! 🎈

Tuesday Weather ☀️ 🥶 

Tuesday

6°C 🌡️ 0°C | ☀️ Sunny and a gentle breeze | ☀️ Sunrise 07:09 Sunset 17:20

FOOTBALL ⚽️ 

Tottenham Secures Crucial Win Against Man United

Tottenham Hotspur 1 | 0 Manchester United

James Maddison responded to critics by scoring the winning goal in Tottenham's 1-0 victory over Manchester United on Sunday. After tapping in a rebound from Andre Onana's save, Maddison celebrated with a "talking and shushing" gesture, referencing recent criticism.

Earlier in the week, Roy Keane had questioned Maddison's impact, suggesting Spurs wouldn't break into the top six with him. Maddison, who recently returned from injury, acknowledged the criticism but emphasized his focus on performing on the pitch.

The goal marked his 10th of the season and his first in the Premier League since December. Maddison admitted that while he tries to ignore outside noise, criticism from high-profile figures can be hard to avoid.

WORD OF THE DAY

PERTAIN

Today’s Word of the Day is PERTAIN means to be related to, connected with, or relevant to something. It is often used to show a relationship or association with a particular subject or topic.

Usage:

• It usually appears with the preposition “to”, forming “pertain to.”

• It can be used in both formal and everyday contexts.

• The rules pertain to all employees, regardless of their position.

• His questions did not pertain to the topic of discussion.

• The documents pertain to the property sale agreement.

Tip: Think of “pertain” as linking something to its subject or context, similar to “relate to” or “concern.”

Get a Birthday Shoutout When Your Refer Us

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 Friday!

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Wishing you a fantastic rest of your day!

Cheers,
Editor-in-chief | Emeka Ogbonnaya

P.S. Want to sponsor our newsletter? Email us at [email protected]