Good morning!

It’s Wednesday, 11th December—are you still on track with your Christmas Advent Calendar, or have you fallen a bit behind? We’d love to hear what today’s surprise is in yours, so feel free to share it with us!

Today’s edition is full of exciting updates! Discover what our MP has been up to, catch the latest plans from Broxbourne Council, and learn about key Hertfordshire County Council campaigns that may directly impact you. Make sure to read through to the end so you don’t miss a thing. We’d love to hear from you—send us your feedback and suggestions! If you’re looking to connect with Broxbourne Borough residents to your business, don’t hesitate to get in touch.

A special warm welcome to our new subscribers—welcome to the Broxtown family! We’re thrilled to have you here. Got feedback or ideas? Let us know! We’re always looking to make Broxtown your go-to local read.🎄✨ 💌

News at a Glance

MP Lewis Cocking Joins Whitefields Christmas Party with Father Christmas!

Last week, Broxbourne MP Lewis Cocking embraced the festive vibes by attending the Whitefields Estate Christmas Party. Joined by local councillors Paul Seeby and Dee Hart, the MP mingled with residents and joined in the celebrations, spreading warmth and cheer.

The event was a treat for all, especially the children, who enjoyed games, laughter, and a special visit from Father Christmas himself! The party reflected the strong community ties in Broxbourne, with neighbours and leaders alike coming together to enjoy the holiday season.

MP Cocking praised the event, sharing, "It was wonderful to see the kids having such a great time, and the visit from Father Christmas was the cherry on top of an already magical day."

As Broxbourne prepares for more December festivities, events like this highlight the importance of community spirit and togetherness. Keep an eye out for more local events happening this holiday season to join in the celebrations!

Update from the Council

Spotlight on Local Heroes: Nominations Open for Broxbourne Borough Awards 2025!

Nominations are now open for the 2025 Borough of Broxbourne Awards, celebrating individuals and groups who make outstanding contributions to the community.

The awards, which honor unsung heroes for their selfless efforts, will close for nominations on 31 January 2025. Winners will be celebrated at a ceremony on Thursday, 6 March 2025.

Mayor of Broxbourne, Councillor Sherrie McDaid, encouraged participation, saying:
"These awards celebrate those who go above and beyond for our community. I urge everyone to nominate the incredible individuals and groups making a difference."

Nominate your local hero today via the Broxbourne Council website!

Update from Hertfordshire County Council

Hertfordshire Council Offers Support to Ease Festive Financial Strain

As the festive season approaches, Hertfordshire County Council is reminding residents that help is at hand for those feeling the financial pressure. With the cost of living continuing to impact households, the Council is offering practical advice and support to ensure everyone can stay safe and well during this challenging time.

The festive period, often a time of joy and celebration, can also bring added financial strain, from buying gifts to hosting gatherings. Hertfordshire County Council emphasizes that no one needs to face these challenges alone, with a range of resources available to assist those in need.

Whether it’s budgeting tips, access to essential services, or targeted help for vulnerable residents, the Council is committed to ensuring everyone has the support they need to navigate the season.

Residents are encouraged to visit the Hertfordshire County Council website or contact local support services for more information on available help.

Make sure to reach out if you or someone you know could benefit from these resources and make this festive season brighter and more secure. Click the button to visit our cost of living page to see what support is available to you or contact HertsHelp on 0300 123 4044.

Hertfordshire Urges Residents with Health Conditions to Get Vaccinated

Residents with long-term health conditions are being encouraged to protect themselves this winter by getting their flu and COVID-19 vaccines. Hertfordshire County Council highlights the importance of these vaccines in reducing the risk of serious illness during the colder months.

Vaccination not only lowers the likelihood of severe symptoms but also ensures a quicker recovery if flu strikes. For those with pre-existing health conditions, this added layer of protection is vital to staying healthy and resilient through the winter season.

Make your health a priority this winter – contact your GP or local pharmacy to book your flu and COVID-19 vaccines today. Stay winter strong and safeguard your well-being!

Stay Warm This Winter: Hertfordshire's Warm Spaces Offer Comfort and Connection

Hertfordshire County Council is inviting residents to visit one of its Warm Spaces this winter, providing a cozy place to socialize and enjoy activities away from the cold.

The initiative aims to support the community by offering safe, welcoming environments where people can connect and stay warm during the colder months. A comprehensive directory of Warm Spaces and additional resources is available to ensure everyone has access to the help they need to stay safe and well this winter.

Residents can explore these spaces and learn about available support by visiting the Hertfordshire County Council website. Don’t face the cold alone – Warm Spaces are here for you!

Free Winter Fun for Kids: HAPpy Camps Return to Hertfordshire!

Hertfordshire County Council is bringing back its popular HAPpy Camps this winter, offering free activity sessions for eligible children and young people. Running from 23 December to 3 January, these camps provide a fantastic opportunity for kids to make new friends, learn exciting skills, and enjoy nutritious meals during the festive break.

Parents and carers are encouraged to check their child’s eligibility by contacting their school office if they haven’t yet received their access code. Places can be booked via the Herts Sports Partnership website, so act quickly to secure a spot for your child.

Don’t miss out on this wonderful chance to keep the kids engaged and happy this winter!

Calling New Dads: Join Hertfordshire’s 'Becoming Dad' Session This Saturday!

Hertfordshire County Council is inviting new and expectant fathers to attend its Becoming Dad session this Saturday. This inclusive event, hosted by trained facilitators from the Family Support Service, is designed to help dads connect with their babies and navigate the transition into parenthood.

In a relaxed and informal setting, participants can share thoughts, discuss challenges, and receive hands-on guidance on understanding their babies’ needs. The session is open to fathers with babies aged 0-1 year, who are welcome to join in the experience.

Don’t miss this chance to connect with other dads and gain valuable insights into fatherhood. Mark your calendar for this Saturday and take the first step in your parenting journey!

UPCOMING EVENTS

Join the Adventure: 1st Cheshunt Scouts Explore Rosedale Tonight!

The 1st Cheshunt Scout Group is halfway through their exciting week of touring Cheshunt, and tonight they’re taking on a brand-new route through Rosedale!

📍 Location: Rosedale
⏰ Time: Tonight, 6:15 PM

Whether you’re a Scout member, family, or a local looking to support, come along and cheer them on as they explore the area. It’s a fantastic opportunity to engage with the community, enjoy the outdoors, and witness the Scouts in action.

Let’s make it a memorable evening—will we see you there?

Final Day of Hoddesdon Carol Performances at Jubilee Shelter

Hand Bell Ringers Spread Festive Cheer in Nazeing

The Hand Bell Ringers are back this Saturday to bring the sounds of Christmas to Nazeing! Join them at Nazeingbury Parade at noon for a delightful performance of carols and festive tunes, all in support of St Claire Hospice.

Afterward, warm up indoors at The Crooked Billet, where the ringing continues from 1:00 PM.

Don’t miss this opportunity to enjoy beautiful music, support a great cause, and soak up the holiday spirit while doing your shopping! 🎶🎄

📅 This Saturday
📍 Locations:

• Nazeingbury Parade: 12:00 PM

• The Crooked Billet (indoors): 1:00 PM

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!

Wednesday Weather

8°C 🌡️ 5°C | ☁️ Thick cloud and a gentle breeze | ☀️ Sunrise 07:57 Sunset 15:50

Word of the Day

ADDLE

Today’s Word of the Day is ADDLE - has a few related meanings, typically associated with confusion or spoilage, depending on the context:

1. As a verb (to confuse):
   To addle means to confuse or muddle someone's thoughts, often causing mental disorientation.

• Example: "The complex instructions only served to addle his mind further."

2. As an adjective (archaic):
   Historically, addle described something confused or rotten, especially eggs.

• Example: "The addle eggs were no longer fit for consumption."

Modern Usage:
Today, addle is mostly used as a verb for describing mental confusion, while the archaic meanings are rare and seen in older texts.

Submit the Word of the Day by clicking here. 👈️ 

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!

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Wishing you a fantastic rest of your day!

Cheers,
The Broxtown Team