Good Morning!

Tuesday, 4th February 2025 – Welcome to February!

Happy Tuesday, and welcome to the second month of 2025! We hope you’re staying warm as the winter chill continues. Today is National Doggy Date Night 🐶, a perfect opportunity to spend some quality one-on-one time with your loyal, furry companion. Why not treat your dog to something special? Let us know if you’re celebrating—we’ve shared a poll to see how many of our readers are dog owners! Find the survey just before the end.

Here’s what’s making headlines today:

• Hertfordshire SEND Team Visits Local Libraries: Drop by to learn about support for children and young people with special educational needs.

• Have Your Say: Hertfordshire County Council wants your input on their new plan for children and young people—share your thoughts!

• Centenary Celebrations Begin: Hertfordshire Libraries kick off 100 years of serving the community—join the celebrations!

• Banking Hub Concerns: Cheshunt residents continue to voice frustrations over the lack of banking services.

• Coffee with a Cop: Don’t miss this chance to chat with local police officers over a cup of coffee.

A warm welcome to all our new subscribers—thank you for being part of the Broxtown family! We’d love to hear your thoughts, ideas, or suggestions. Let’s work together to make Broxtown your go-to source 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. 💌

From the County Council

Hertfordshire SEND Local Offer Team to Visit Libraries and Family Centres in February

Throughout February, the Hertfordshire SEND Local Offer team will be visiting libraries and Family Centres across the county to engage with families and provide information about the support available for children and young people with special educational needs or disabilities (SEND).

The SEND Local Offer website serves as a comprehensive resource for families of children and young people aged 0–25, offering details about services, activities, and support tailored to a wide range of needs—from those requiring a little extra help to those with more complex requirements.

During their visits, the team will be available to answer questions, provide guidance, and help families explore the support options available to them. Families are encouraged to check their local library or Family Centre’s Facebook page to find out if the team will be visiting their area.

This is a great opportunity for families to learn more about the SEND Local Offer and how it can support them.

Hertfordshire County Council Seeks Input on New Five-Year Plan for Children and Young People

Hertfordshire County Council is currently drafting a new Plan for Children and Young People, which will set out its vision, ambitions, and priorities for supporting children, young people, and families over the next five years.

To ensure the plan reflects the needs and aspirations of the community, the council is inviting residents to share their thoughts on what matters most for children, young people, and families in Hertfordshire. By participating in the Children, Young People and Families Survey, individuals can play a key role in shaping the future of support services and initiatives across the county.

The council encourages everyone—whether parents, carers, young people, or professionals—to take part in the survey before the deadline on 23 February.

Your input will make a difference!

Celebrating 100 Years of Hertfordshire Libraries: A Year of Events and Activities!

Hertfordshire County Council is thrilled to announce a year-long celebration marking 100 years of the Hertfordshire Libraries service. With 46 libraries across the county, the programme features a wide range of events, including literature and poetry celebrations, family theatre, comedy, and interactive exhibitions.

The celebrations kick off on 28 February 2025 with a launch event at Welwyn Garden City Library, featuring speeches, an interactive art session, and the unveiling of a touring exhibition showcasing the history of Hertfordshire libraries.

Highlights of the programme include:

• ‘A Tale of Us’: A new play for parents and babies, touring 10 libraries.

• ‘Big Herts Hero Hunt’: An interactive family theatre show exploring Hertfordshire’s heritage.

• Poetry Festival: A 100-day festival with workshops, competitions, and open-mic nights.

• Author Events: Evenings with Poet Laureate Simon Armitage, comedian Robin Ince, and bestselling author John Connolly.

The events were curated based on feedback from residents, ensuring the celebrations reflect the community’s interests.

Caroline Clapper, Executive Member for Education, Libraries and Lifelong Learning, said: “Libraries have transformed over the last century, offering accessible spaces and diverse services. We hope residents will join us in celebrating this milestone and discover the joy of their local library.”

👉 Find out more and explore the full events calendar: Hertfordshire Libraries Centenary

COMMUNITY UPDATES

Cheshunt Residents Await Return of ATM Services Amid Push for Banking Hub

Cheshunt residents and local leaders have been vocal about the lack of banking services in the area, with not a single bank branch remaining in the town. For months, the community has relied on limited cash machines at the local Post Office and Tesco Brookfield, making access to essential financial services a growing challenge.

Tensions rose recently when technicians were seen removing the ATM at Tesco Brookfield, with reports suggesting it would not be replaced. This sparked frustration among residents, who are already struggling with the absence of in-person banking services.

In response, local MP Lewis Cocking stepped in, stating: "With not a single bank left in Cheshunt, I was concerned to hear about the removal of these cash machines. I immediately contacted Tesco following this post, and I'm pleased to say that new ATMs are being installed and will be up and running by 17 February."

While the promise of a restored ATM is encouraging, residents remain cautious until the machines are fully operational. In the meantime, the campaign for a full Banking Hub in Cheshunt continues. Residents and businesses are calling for in-person banking services, similar to those available in other towns, to meet the growing demand for accessible financial support.

The MP added, "I'm continuing my campaign for banking services to return to Cheshunt," urging residents to stay updated on progress.

For now, the community remains hopeful that the restored ATM services will provide some relief, while the push for a permanent Banking Hub gains momentum. Updates on this issue will be shared as they develop.

Hoddesdon Library to Host Event for Race Equality Week 2025

Hoddesdon Library is proud to announce its participation in Race Equality Week 2025, a UK-wide movement uniting hundreds of thousands of organisations and individuals to address barriers to race equality in the workplace and beyond.

Race Equality Week is a time for action, emphasising that every step—no matter how big or small—contributes to meaningful change. The library will host a series of events and activities to mark the occasion, providing an opportunity for the community to come together, learn, and engage in important conversations about race equality.

Residents are encouraged to join in and be part of this vital initiative. Further details about the library’s events will be shared soon.

Every action matters. Let’s grow change together.

Step Back in Time: Historic Photo of Waltham Cross Shared by Library

Waltham Cross Library recently shared a nostalgic glimpse into the past with a historic photograph from 1948. The image captures a 679 Trolleybus making its way through Waltham Cross, offering a fascinating snapshot of life in the area over 75 years ago.

In the photo, iconic landmarks such as Fishpools—then known as the Second Hand Department Store—advertise a free car park, while the Midland Bank and an advert for Palm Tree Toffee add to the charm of the scene. The image is part of the Jack Edwards Collection (Ref: DE/Je/2/544), a treasure trove of local history.

The library’s post has sparked fond memories and conversations among residents, highlighting how much the area has changed while celebrating its rich heritage. It’s a wonderful reminder of Waltham Cross’s vibrant past and a great way to connect with the community’s history.

For more glimpses into the past, follow Waltham Cross Library’s updates or explore their local history collections.

Cedars Nature Centre Becomes a Community Interest Company

Cedars Nature Centre has reached a significant milestone by officially becoming a Community Interest Company (CIC). This exciting transition marks a new chapter for the beloved local zoo, which has always aimed to provide affordable family fun while focusing on education, particularly for children and individuals with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

As a CIC, Cedars Nature Centre will operate as a not-for-profit organisation, reinvesting all profits into expanding its educational outreach, improving facilities, and creating more opportunities for the community. This includes increasing workshops, home education groups, and SEND alternative provisions, all while keeping costs low to remain accessible to everyone.

The centre’s team expressed their pride in this achievement and their commitment to continuing their mission of fostering a welcoming, educational, and inclusive environment for all ages and abilities.

Stay tuned for updates on how the community can support Cedars Nature Centre’s growth and help further its impactful work. This is a momentous step forward for a cherished local attraction dedicated to making a difference.

MEME of The Day

UPCOMING EVENTS

Last Chance to Join Our FREE Inspiring Herts Workshop – Register Now!

Are you thinking about entering the Inspiring Herts Awards 2025? Don’t miss your chance to get expert advice and tips at our FREE Entering is Winning Workshop!

This workshop is designed to help you craft a standout entry and significantly boost your chances of winning one of these prestigious awards. Whether you’re new to the awards or looking to refine your submission, this session is packed with practical guidance and insider tips.

• Date: Wednesday, 5th February

• Time: 9:00am – 11:00am

• Location: Rothamsted Enterprises, Harpenden

What You’ll Learn:

• Why you should enter the Inspiring Herts Awards

• What makes a winning entry

• Hints and tips on what to do (and what NOT to do!)

• Practical, tailored advice for your entry

Spaces are limited, so secure your spot today and take the first step towards becoming an Inspiring Herts Award winner in 2025!

Coffee with a Cop at Waltham Cross Library – Tuesday, 4th February

Join us Waltham Cross Library today, Tuesday, 4th February, from 10am to 12pm for a Coffee with a Cop session. Meet officers from the Cheshunt East Safer Neighbourhood Team for a friendly chat about local safety, share concerns, or ask questions in a relaxed setting.

This is a great opportunity to connect with your local policing team and help make Waltham Cross an even safer community. Drop in for a coffee and a conversation!

• Date: Tuesday, 4th February

• Time: 10am–12pm

• Location: Waltham Cross Library

We look forward to seeing you there!

Broxbourne Creative Network: Funding Formula Event

Join the Broxbourne Creative Network on Wednesday, 12th February, from 10:00am to 12:00pm at Hoddesdon Enterprise Centre for a masterclass on securing funding for creative businesses.

This event is perfect for creative entrepreneurs looking to grow their ventures. Don’t miss out—book your spot now!

Broxbourne Borough Weather 🌤️ 

Tuesday 4th February

10°C 🌡️ 2°C | ☁️ Light cloud and moderate breeze | ☀️ Sunrise 07:35 Sunset 16:54

Wednesday 5th February

9°C 🌡️ -1°C | ⛅️ Sunny intervals and light rains | ☀️ Sunrise 07:33 Sunset 16:56

Thursday 6th February

8°C 🌡️ 1°C | ☀️ Sunny and a gentle breeze | ☀️ Sunrise 07:32 Sunset 16:58

FOOTBALL ⚽️ 

Arsenal Close Gap on Liverpool with Dominant Win Over Manchester City

Arsenal 5 | 1 Manchester City

Arsenal delivered a stunning performance at Emirates Stadium, thrashing Manchester City 5-1 to move within six points of Premier League leaders Liverpool. The Gunners, knowing only a win would keep them in the title race after Liverpool's victory at Bournemouth, overpowered the struggling champions in emphatic fashion.

Key moments included an early goal by Martin Ødegaard after a City defensive error, a quick response to Erling Haaland's equalizer, and a memorable first goal for 18-year-old Myles Lewis-Skelly. Kai Havertz redeemed an earlier miss with a precise finish, and 17-year-old Ethan Nwaneri capped off the win with a spectacular strike.

While Arsenal have played a game more than Liverpool, this victory keeps them firmly in the title chase. Meanwhile, City's struggles continue, leaving their title defence in doubt.

Tottenham End Losing Streak with 2-0 Win Over Brentford Amid Fan Protests

Tottenham Hotspur 2 | 0 Brentford

Tottenham halted a four-game losing run with a 2-0 victory over Brentford, thanks to an own goal from Vitaly Janelt and a late strike by Pape Matar Sarr. Despite the win, fans chanted "We want Levy out," expressing frustration with chairman Daniel Levy's tenure, which has seen just one trophy since 2001.

The win lifted Spurs to 14th, 10 points clear of relegation, and boosted morale ahead of a crucial Carabao Cup semi-final second leg against Liverpool. Meanwhile, the signing of defender Kevin Danso provided a timely boost amid ongoing fan discontent.

The Ambers Are Back Home Tonight!

Don’t miss the action as The Ambers return to Theobalds Lane tonight!

Match Details:

• Opponent: Hendon FC

• Time: 7:45pm

• Location: Theobalds Lane, EN8 8RU

Tickets:
Discounted tickets are available on our website until 5pm Tuesday evening. Grab yours now and cheer on The Ambers!

POLL - Do You Own a Dog?

We’d love to know—are you a dog owner? Let us know by voting in our quick poll below!

Your answers will help us tailor more content for pet lovers in our community. Don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comments too! 🐶

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 Tuesday!

Have questions or suggestions to improve our newsletter? Got a story to share? Email us at [email protected].

Interested in advertising with us? Drop us a line at the same email address.

If someone forwarded this email to you, be sure to thank them—and don’t miss out next time! Subscribe here.

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]