December saw an array of festive fun throughout the town, from Christmas concerts to carol performances to charity fundraisers.

Crowds of people lined the streets for the big Christmas light switch on in Borehamwood, which was made all the more special after members of the community stepped in to make it the best event the town has ever seen.

Councillor Richard Butler said: “The residents of Borehamwood and Elstree had a big part to play in the event. They got really involved in supplying additional cupcakes, and the idea for a Christmas grotto for the children, and also had a massive impact in getting the tree and helping to decorate it.

“It was fantastic that everyone got together, and we hope next year will be bigger and better.”

Meanwhile, the planning application for the development of Hertswood Academy, which currently operates over two sites in Cowley Hill and Thrift Farm Lane, was received by Hertsmere Borough Council.

The community sports centre will now be demolished six months before the completion of the new centre, while the provision of two squash courts have been added to plans.

The Ark Theatre will be out of use for up to 18 months while building work is carried out, but will be almost hadlf as big again as the current Ark theatre.

Hertswood headteacher Peter Gillett said: “We are very excited about the plans and we hope it will provide for current and future students, because it’s not just about our children here – it’s about our children’s children too.”

Finally, people were also invited to have their say on plans for a development in Watford Road, Elstree, which has been proposed to help keep the Aldenham Reservoir, in Aldenham Country Park, free for public use.