It’s half term and the kids are home, full of energy and looking for things to do (and maybe turning the house upside down in the process). Don’t worry, there’s plenty happening nearby (Fifty thrifty). Check out our Friday edition for a full list of local family activities to keep everyone entertained.

It’s also Halloween season and the high streets are buzzing with spooky decorations and early fireworks. As the celebrations light up the skies, remember to stay safe and be mindful of others, especially our furry friends.

We’ve also got something exciting to share. The 2026 Hertfordshire Wall Calendar has arrived, featuring stunning hand-drawn watercolour illustrations of our county’s most iconic landmarks. Keep an eye out for our upcoming giveaway because you could be one of the lucky winners.

Here’s what’s making headlines across Hertfordshire today:

…and much more of the local news that matters to you.

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Future Innovators Unite! Stevenage Opens Doors to STEM Careers
Stevenage is set to inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers with a free STEM careers event at the Arts & Leisure Centre on 30 October. The event will feature hands-on slime-making with Mad Science, live demos, and career advice from top employers like Airbus and the Institution of Engineering and Technology. The showcase supports the Council’s Young STEM Futures programme, which helps young people explore real-world career opportunities. University of Hertfordshire researchers will also present findings on the project’s impact, highlighting the importance of industry partnerships in creating a thriving local STEM talent pipeline.
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Businesses Invited to Make Stevenage Sparkle This Christmas!
Stevenage Borough Council is inviting local businesses to help decorate the town’s Christmas tree by sponsoring one of 99 giant baubles for £20 each. The Hill Group donated the baubles, and proceeds will support the Stevenage Community Trust’s Christmas Gift Card scheme, helping local families afford food, presents and essentials this festive season. Junction 7 Creatives is hosting drop-in decorating sessions on 28 and 31 October, encouraging creativity from local businesses. All baubles must be returned by 10 November to be displayed on the town centre tree throughout December. It’s a great way for businesses to give back and spread cheer.
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Have Your Say: Stevenage Taxi Fare Review Launches Consultation
Stevenage Borough Council has opened its annual review of taxi fares and tariffs, giving residents and taxi operators a chance to share their views. The Council has presented four proposed fare options to ensure pricing remains fair for passengers while covering drivers’ rising operational costs. This yearly consultation helps maintain a balance between affordability and service quality across the borough. Under the Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1976, the Council regularly reviews fares to ensure they reflect real costs and meet public expectations. Feedback will help shape final decisions for the year ahead.
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Five-Way Battle for Stevenage Council Seat This Thursday
Stevenage’s Roebuck ward voters will head to the polls on 30 October to elect a new councillor following Anne Wells’ resignation due to ill health. The by-election has drawn five candidates representing Labour, Conservative, Liberal Democrat, Green and Reform UK parties. Each candidate is campaigning to address local concerns such as housing, transport, and public safety. The by-election highlights the borough’s political diversity and residents’ ongoing engagement in shaping local decision-making. The new councillor will join the Borough Council to help deliver key community initiatives and represent the interests of Roebuck residents.
(Local Democracy Reporting Service)

Home insurance costs continue to climb, with premiums rising over 9% this year and more than 60% in the past five years. However, coverage hasn’t kept pace, leaving many homeowners paying significantly more for less protection. With affordability becoming a growing concern, it’s more important than ever to compare options—check out Money’s handy home insurance tool to find the best fit for you.

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Community Unites for Powerful Knife Angel Farewell Ceremony
Welwyn Garden City will host a moving farewell ceremony for the Knife Angel on 30 October at Howardsgate. The sculpture’s month-long stay has inspired deep community reflection on knife crime and youth violence. The closing event features a candle-lit parade by Hertfordshire Cadets, performances by youth music group Everybody Loves Music, and speeches from campaigner Quinton Green. Chief Constable Andy Prophet and local dignitaries will attend to celebrate the unity shown during the sculpture’s visit. The event marks a powerful end to a month of engagement activities across Hertfordshire schools and community centres.
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Welwyn Garden City’s Future at Stake: Residents Called to Shape Town Council Proposal
Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council has launched a major consultation asking residents in Welwyn Garden City to consider forming a new Town Council. The move comes as the government explores replacing Hertfordshire’s two-tier system with unitary authorities. If approved, a new Town Council would manage local matters such as community projects, events, and allotments, while the Unitary Council would handle broader services like highways, social care and planning. The consultation runs until 30 November, giving residents a chance to influence how their town is represented. Councillor Kieran Thorpe emphasised that strong local voices are crucial in this time of change.
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Spooktacular Half Term Unleashed Across Welwyn Hatfield!
Families in Welwyn Hatfield can enjoy a packed week of Halloween-themed fun this half term. Campus West is hosting The Eras Experience, a Taylor Swift tribute, along with Films for a Fiver featuring The Addams Family and Hotel Transylvania. Roller City will run themed skate sessions leading up to a big Halloween party on 31 October. Mill Green Museum offers workshops including clay monster making, eco-slime, and pumpkin carving. Hatfield Town Centre joins the fun on 25 October with live music, games, and character appearances. Councillor Jane Quinton encourages families to explore the full lineup of spooky activities.
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Meet the Stars: East Herts Waste Trucks Get Celebrity Names!
Residents across East and North Hertfordshire have brought creativity to the streets by naming their local waste collection trucks. Over 700 entries were submitted, with witty winners including “Bin Affleck,” “Kate Binslet,” and “Optimus Grime.” The campaign, organised by East Herts Council and waste partner Veolia, celebrates the essential work of refuse teams while raising awareness of recycling. The fleet expansion includes new electric bikes for easier access in town centres, reflecting the Council’s commitment to greener operations. Councillors praised the initiative for building community pride and showcasing environmental responsibility through humour and engagement.
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Step Back in Time! Hertford Castle Opens for Guided Tours
Hertford Castle invites visitors to explore one of Hertfordshire’s most historic landmarks through special guided tours. Run by the Friends of Hertford Castle, the tours take guests on a journey from the Norman period to modern times, highlighting centuries of royal and local history. Tickets cost just £2, with proceeds supporting the Mayor of Hertford Appeal Fund. Tours last 75 minutes and depart every half hour between noon and 3:30pm. Each session accommodates up to 20 visitors, offering an intimate experience of the castle’s interior rooms and grounds. Early arrival is advised as space is limited.
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Shape Hertford’s Future! Castle Plus Neighbourhood Plan Seeks Community Voice
Hertford residents are being invited to influence their town’s future through the Castle Plus Neighbourhood Plan. The exhibition at the Town & Tourist Information Centre gives locals a chance to review proposals affecting homes, green spaces and infrastructure. The plan, once adopted, will form part of East Herts’ Local Development Framework, meaning community input will help guide planning decisions for years to come. Steering group members are encouraging as many residents as possible to attend and share feedback. The event runs from 10am to 2pm, offering direct engagement with the people shaping Hertford’s next chapter.
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Councillors Accept Pay Rise but Slash Recommended Amount
East Herts councillors voted to increase their annual allowance by £500, bringing it to £6,179. The decision followed public criticism of the independent panel’s higher recommendation of £821. Councillors said the smaller increase strikes a fairer balance between recognising workload and respecting residents’ financial struggles. The debate highlighted tensions between fair compensation and public perception during tight budget times.
(Local Democracy Reporting Service)

Mayor’s Vintage Tea Party Brings Joy to Hertford’s Elders
Wednesday 22nd October, Hertford Castle was filled with laughter and community spirit as the Mayor of Hertford, Councillor Steven Watson, hosted a charming Vintage Tea Party for around fifty residents aged over 75. Guests enjoyed a delightful afternoon of tea, cakes and conversation, with treats donated by local favourites including Mudlarks Garden Café, Pickle & Slice, and Thirteen Artisan Bakery. The event also featured bingo and a raffle with prizes from Hertford businesses such as Foxholes Farm Shop and McMullens Brewery. Donations collected will support the Mayor’s chosen charities, Herts Young Homeless and Hertford Scouts, celebrating the generosity and togetherness of Hertford’s community.

Hertford Shops Invited to Shine in ‘Winning Windows’ Christmas Competition
Hertford’s much-loved Winning Windows competition is back, inviting local retailers to create dazzling festive displays. Organised by Hertford Town Council, the contest celebrates creativity and community spirit, with the Mayor and Councillor Ann Woodward judging entries. Shops must enter by 7 December, with winners announced on the Council’s social media channels.

Landmark Closure: Borehamwood Shop Shut Down After £40,000 Tobacco Seizure
Hertsmere Borough Council has secured its first closure order against a Borehamwood shop after repeated raids uncovered thousands of illegal cigarettes, vapes, and shisha products. M1 Mini Mart on Shenley Road will remain closed for three months following a joint operation with Hertfordshire Constabulary, Trading Standards and HMRC. Officers seized over £40,000 worth of illegal goods and arrested two suspects during a 20 October raid. Councillor Christian Gray condemned the activity as a “highly organised criminal operation” and praised the collaboration that led to the closure. The Council says it will continue tackling unsafe and unregulated products in local shops.
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Hertfordshire’s Biggest Free Fireworks Spectacular Returns to Cassiobury Park
Watford’s beloved fireworks night returns on 1 November at Cassiobury Park, promising an evening full of entertainment for all ages. The free event starts at 6pm with live performances from Vibe 107.6FM and Pat & The Butchers, leading up to the main fireworks show at 7:30pm. Families can enjoy food stalls, funfair rides and activities throughout the park. Watford Lions Club will collect donations for local charities, with 100% of funds going to good causes. Mayor Peter Taylor praised the event for bringing residents together while reducing small private fireworks that disturb pets and wildlife.
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Game-Changing Riverwell Square Unveiled: Travelodge, Tesco and Greggs Transform Watford
Watford’s Riverwell regeneration has reached a new milestone with the unveiling of Riverwell Square—a major new mixed-use space featuring a Travelodge, Tesco, Greggs and public amenities. Developed through the Council’s partnership with Kier Property, the square will serve as a key gateway into the 70-acre Watford Riverwell site. Construction begins this month and is set to bring jobs, improved footfall, and vibrant social spaces for residents. With more than 1,000 new homes already in progress, Mayor Peter Taylor called the project a “cornerstone of Watford’s sustainable future,” enhancing both connectivity and community life.
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Dacorum Celebrates Major Milestones: 500th Council Home and Green Successes
Dacorum Borough Council has marked major achievements across housing, environment and community development. The Council completed its 500th affordable home at St Margarets Way in Leverstock Green, featuring energy-efficient designs and accessible layouts. Six borough parks retained Green Flag status, while the River Gade restoration in Gadebridge Park returned the waterway to its natural path. Progress continues on the Local Plan and the new Hemel Hempstead Health Campus. Community safety initiatives, including a Youth Violence Prevention Pathfinder Panel, are also underway. Leader Councillor Sally Symington praised residents and teams for building “thriving, sustainable communities.”
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Labour Demands 20mph Limits Outside Every Hertfordshire School
Labour councillor Alistair Willoughby has called for default 20mph limits on all roads outside Hertfordshire schools to protect children’s safety. He said some schools are still located on roads with speed limits of up to 70mph, posing serious risks during drop-off and pick-up times. The proposal aims to standardise road safety across the county, ensuring consistency and reducing traffic accidents involving pupils. The motion has sparked countywide debate over enforcement costs and road design, with campaigners urging the County Council to prioritise children’s safety over convenience.
(Local Democracy Reporting Service)

Conservatives Demand Return of Food Vouchers for 32,000 Children
Hertfordshire Conservatives are urging the County Council to reinstate £15 supermarket vouchers for families eligible for free school meals during half term. The government funding for the scheme was recently withdrawn, leaving many households without support during school holidays. Councillors say the vouchers provided vital relief to over 32,000 children last year. Labour and Liberal Democrat members have voiced support for exploring alternative local funding options. The debate highlights rising concern about child food poverty across the county and the need for continued support for vulnerable families.
(Local Democracy Reporting Service)

7,000 Residents Speak Out as Hertfordshire Faces Major Council Shake-Up
Over 7,400 Hertfordshire residents have shared their views on proposals to replace the county’s two-tier government system with one or more unitary authorities. Council leaders are reviewing public feedback before submitting recommendations to Westminster in November. Options under review include forming one, two, three or four unitary councils to streamline governance. Supporters say the change could improve efficiency, while critics warn of reduced local representation. The consultation marks one of the largest civic engagements in recent years, reflecting growing interest in how local democracy should evolve.
(Local Democracy Reporting Service)

Hertfordshire Prepares for Major AI Conference Showcasing Google and Industry Leaders

Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce hosts a groundbreaking AI Conference on Friday, 14th November 2025, at The Fielder Centre, Hatfield Business Park. Running from 9am to 4pm, the event is proudly sponsored by Google—now established in Waltham Cross—alongside University of Hertfordshire and Stevenage Bioscience Catalyst. Business leaders will explore AI's transformative impact through keynote speeches from leading technologists, including Dr Robert Smith and Jamie Claret from Autonomate. The full-day programme features six practical breakout sessions covering creativity, cybersecurity, and productivity, plus exhibition stands from innovative startups. Attendees gain valuable networking opportunities with digital leaders whilst enjoying complimentary breakfast, lunch and refreshments throughout this essential future-focused gathering.

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5 Beds | 4 Baths | 3 Receptions | 2,389 sq. ft

his exceptional five-bedroom detached home on Watford Road, St Albans, perfectly blends luxury, space and practicality. Recognised by the St Albans Civic Society for its elegant design, it features a stunning Audus German kitchen with high-spec appliances, James Steel staircase, and Neatsmith joinery throughout. Bi-folding doors open onto landscaped gardens with a gym room, storage and w/c, creating seamless indoor-outdoor living. The home also boasts four bathrooms, three reception rooms, and original 1920s character features. With gated access to St Stephen’s Park, CCTV, and easy links to the M25, M1 and A1, this is a rare turnkey residence offering timeless style and comfort.

ST ALBANS

12°C 🌡️ 8°C | ☀ Sunny intervals and a fresh breeze | ☀️ Sunrise 06:46 Sunset 16:44

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