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Good Morning {{first_name | Reader}},
The weather finally eased up today, and seeing double figures on the car thermometer felt almost unreal. Apparently yesterday was the official cut-off for saying “Happy New Year,” so we can all stop now, unless this is the first time we’re seeing each other, then it still counts.
If you are anything like me, the world feels noisy right now, from Parliament to America, Iran, Venezuela, even Cuba making headlines. But plenty is happening closer to home too, and I have done all the digging so you do not have to.
In today’s issue:
Tax Increase set to rise by unto 4.99% proposed for 2026/27 Hertfordshire County Council Budget Planning
Police Commissioner to Question Chief Constable on Firearms Licensing
Broxtown has hit the ground running in 2026
Cllr Steve Wortley Raises Local Concerns During Hoddesdon Walkabout
Broxbourne MP Presses Government Over Use of Marriott as Asylum Hotel
➕ And much more local news that matters to you.
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News from Hertfordshire County Council
Council Tax Increase Proposal of 4.99% Referenced for 2026/27 Budget Planning
A county-wide briefing item states that Hertfordshire County Council finance proposals include a 4.99% council tax increase for the 2026/27 financial year. The figure is presented as part of bridging funding gaps, reflecting financial pressures across local government. Residents will likely want more clarity on how any increase would be allocated across services such as adult social care, highways, education and public health. Budget proposals typically go through formal scrutiny and decision-making stages before being finalised. More detail should be expected through budget reports and council meeting updates.
Hertfordshire Police Commissioner to Question Chief Constable on Firearms Licensing and Public Safety
The Hertfordshire Police and Crime Commissioner will hold his monthly accountability meeting this Thursday, focusing on firearms licensing, crime investigations, and protecting women from abuse and predatory behaviour.
Firearms licensing returns to the agenda for the seventh time following a critical HMICFRS inspection of the joint firearms unit. The Chief Constable will provide an update on the force’s response. The Commissioner will also seek an update on Project Vigilant after observing a recent deployment in Bishop’s Stortford.
The public can register to watch the meeting online.
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COMMUNITY UPDATES
Broxtown has hit the ground running in 2026.
Our mission is simple, tell the real stories of this borough, the wins, the struggles, and everything in between, while helping local businesses and charities thrive.
We have a wave of deep-dive editorials coming up.
One explores how eviction delays and housing regulations are pushing landlords out of the rental market, shrinking supply for working residents who cannot yet afford to buy. We also examine the council’s role in the growing tension. Publishing soon.
Another goes behind the quiet rise in high-street closures. More shops are shutting than opening, yet the human cost is rarely told. We are pulling back the curtain. Watch this space.
We also spent time with Community Champion 2025, Andy Massey, at Cedars Park, where his voluntary work at the Bee Centre and King James Room speaks louder than any award. An exclusive feature is coming.
And finally, Cedars Nature Centre has shared its biggest achievement of last year and its bold vision for 2026. Broxtown will be supporting their next major project. More on that very soon.
We have a survey out to hear from you on what you expect from Broxtown in 2026. If you haven’t submitted your views, use the link below. Thanks in advance.
Free Fraud and Cyber Safety Session Announced at Hoddesdon Library
Broxbourne is promoting a free public session at Hoddesdon Library focused on cyber crime and fraud prevention. Experts will be available to answer questions and share practical steps residents can take to reduce the risk of scams and online fraud. The session is presented as accessible and informal, with no booking required, which should make it easier for residents to drop in. This kind of advice is especially relevant as fraud tactics continue to evolve across phone, email and social media channels. Residents are encouraged to attend if they want straightforward guidance and up-to-date tips.
Opportunity for Excellence Grants Offer Boost for Young Athletes
Broxbourne Borough Council is highlighting its Opportunity for Excellence grant scheme aimed at supporting athletes aged 11 to 30. The scheme is designed to help residents develop their sporting potential, with successful applicants receiving a one-year gym membership at a council centre. This support can help with training consistency, conditioning and progress across a range of sports. The council’s messaging positions the scheme as a practical investment in local talent and personal development. Residents can review eligibility and apply through the council’s webpage.
Clean Air Night Messaging Highlights Wood Burning as a Major Polluter
Broxbourne is supporting Clean Air Night awareness messaging, highlighting that wood burning is a highly polluting way to heat a home. The council notes that many people are not fully aware of the facts, which is why the campaign focuses on public understanding and behaviour. The update links personal choices to wider local air quality and public health outcomes, particularly in colder months when home heating increases. The messaging is part of a broader push to make Hertfordshire greener and healthier through everyday actions. Residents can follow the hashtag for more information and updates.
Cllr Steve Wortley Raises Local Concerns During Hoddesdon Walkabout
Councillor Steve Wortley spent part of the morning on a two-hour walk around Hoddesdon, speaking with residents and gathering feedback on local issues. During the walk, he logged two fly-tipping reports and highlighted the main concerns raised by residents as fly-tipping, parking problems, and road and pavement conditions.
He encouraged residents to formally report issues through council channels so they can be properly tracked and addressed. Cllr Wortley also praised community spirit, giving special mention to a local resident, Jim from Kennedy Avenue, for his voluntary litter-picking efforts.
The councillor thanked everyone who stopped to speak with him and reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the local community.
Broxbourne MP Presses Government Over Use of Marriott as Asylum Hotel
Following a question raised in Parliament last week, the Lewis Cocking MP met Monday morning with the Home Office Minister responsible for asylum accommodation to seek clarity on when the Marriott will stop housing asylum seekers and what alternative arrangements will be put in place.
While no clear answers were provided at the meeting, the Broxbourne MP said he will continue pressing the Government to resolve the issue swiftly and permanently.
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MEME of The Day
Nature thrives when we let it
🐝Did You Know?
Beekeeping at Cedars Park in Broxbourne dates back over 400 years, to the reign of King James I.
The original walls of Theobalds Palace still contain rare Tudor “bee boles”. These are stone niches built around 1600 to house woven beehives, proving that beekeeping was part of the estate’s design centuries ago. King James I, who made the palace his favourite residence in 1607, was known to keep bees there.
While the original hives did not survive continuously, the tradition lives on today. The Friends of Cedars Park have reintroduced bees to the site and now produce the park’s own Cedars Park Honey, reconnecting modern Broxbourne with its royal past.
Click here to share historical stories of our community
QUOTES OF THE DAY
The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change.
— Carl Rogers
What lies behind us and what lies ahead of us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.
— Henry David Thoreau
HEALTH & WELLBEING TIPS
Nuts are one of the simplest upgrades you can make to your health.
Here’s why they punch way above their weight.
🥜1. Heart Health
Nuts are loaded with healthy fats, especially omega-3s and monounsaturated fats.
They help lower bad cholesterol (LDL), reduce inflammation, and cut the risk of heart disease and stroke.
🧠2. Brain Power
The fats, vitamin E, and antioxidants in nuts support memory, focus, and long-term brain health.
Walnuts in particular are strongly linked to improved cognitive function.
💪3. Stable Energy & Muscle Support
Nuts provide protein, magnesium, and iron.
This supports muscle repair, reduces fatigue, and helps your body produce energy efficiently.
🩸4. Blood Sugar Control
They slow digestion and prevent sugar spikes, which is why nuts are powerful for diabetes prevention and management.
🧬5. Anti-Inflammatory & Anti-Aging
Nuts are rich in antioxidants and polyphenols.
They reduce chronic inflammation, protect cells from damage, and slow biological ageing.
⚖️6. Weight Management
Despite being calorie-dense, nuts increase fullness and reduce cravings, making it easier to control weight long-term.
🛡️7. Strong Immunity
Zinc, selenium, and vitamin E in nuts strengthen immune response and improve recovery from illness.
🌿Top performers
Walnuts – brain and heart
Almonds – cholesterol, skin, bones
Brazil nuts – thyroid support (selenium powerhouse)
Pistachios – blood sugar and gut health
Cashews – iron and energy
A small handful per day is enough to see real benefits.
Weather 🌧 Tuesday - Friday
Tuesday
11°C 🌡 1°C | 🌧 Heavy rain and a gentle breeze | ☀ Sunrise 08:02 Sunset 16:16
Wednesday
12°C 🌡 3°C | ⛅ Sunny interval and a gentle breeze | ☀ Sunrise 08:01 Sunset 16:17
Thursday
12°C 🌡 11°C | 🌧 Heavy rain and a gentle breeze | ☀ Sunrise 08:01 Sunset 16:19
Friday
15°C 🌡 11°C | 🌧 Light rain and a gentle breeze | ☀ Sunrise 08:00 Sunset 16:21
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Wishing you a fantastic rest of your day!
Cheers,
Editor-in-chief | Emeka Ogbonnaya
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