https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk News from the East of England, county by county: economy, society, culture, politics and local life across Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire, Essex, Cambridgeshire, Norfolk and Suffolk. en Thu, 29 Oct 2026 21:43:01 GMT https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/bedfordshire/bedford/bedford-parents-urged-to-apply-for-secondary-school-places-by-october-31 Bedford Borough Council reminds parents to apply for secondary school places for September 2027 by the 31 October 2026 deadline. — Based on information from the official source: Bedford Borough Council (29/10/2026) Thu, 29 Oct 2026 17:54:44 GMT https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/bedfordshire/bedford/bedford-parents-urged-to-apply-for-secondary-school-places-by-october-31 Rebecca Flint Local Generic image of a child's hand reaching towards a school building. https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/essex/southend-on-sea/southend-on-sea-council-welcomes-clarity-on-local-government-reorganisation Southend-on-Sea City Council responds positively to the Government's update on Local Government Reorganisation, anticipating a decision for Greater Essex by early 2027. — Based on information from the official source: Southend-on-Sea Borough Council (29/10/2026) Thu, 29 Oct 2026 15:56:19 GMT https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/essex/southend-on-sea/southend-on-sea-council-welcomes-clarity-on-local-government-reorganisation Eleanor Paget Politics Generic image of a formal building facade with a clear sky, suggesting local government. https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/bedfordshire/bedford/bedford-borough-gears-up-for-festive-christmas-events Bedford Borough Council announces festive events including light switch-ons, markets, and family activities for Christmas 2026. — Based on information from the official source: Bedford Borough Council (29/10/2026) Thu, 29 Oct 2026 15:54:14 GMT https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/bedfordshire/bedford/bedford-borough-gears-up-for-festive-christmas-events Rebecca Flint Local Generic image: with blurred figures of people enjoying the atmosphere. https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/hertfordshire/general/stevenage-borough-council-plants-80-trees-to-mark-80th-anniversary Stevenage Borough Council is planting 80 trees to celebrate the town's 80th anniversary, creating a green legacy and heritage trail. — Based on information from the official source: Stevenage Borough Council (29/10/2026) Thu, 29 Oct 2026 14:56:45 GMT https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/hertfordshire/general/stevenage-borough-council-plants-80-trees-to-mark-80th-anniversary Rebecca Flint Local Generic image of a young tree being planted in the ground. https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/essex/general/essex-urges-parents-to-vaccinate-young-children-against-flu-this-halloween NHS Essex urges parents to vaccinate two- and three-year-olds against flu this Halloween, with low uptake reported across the county. — Based on information from the official source: NHS Essex Integrated Care Board (29/10/2026) Thu, 29 Oct 2026 14:56:09 GMT https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/essex/general/essex-urges-parents-to-vaccinate-young-children-against-flu-this-halloween Rebecca Flint Local Generic image of a child's hand holding a toy monster, with a blurred background of autumn leaves. https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/essex/general/thurrock-council-seeks-clarity-on-essex-local-government-future Thurrock Council reiterates call for clarity on the future of local government in Essex following government announcement on reorganisation. — Based on information from the official source: Thurrock Council (29/10/2026) Thu, 29 Oct 2026 14:54:40 GMT https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/essex/general/thurrock-council-seeks-clarity-on-essex-local-government-future Eleanor Paget Politics Generic image of a government building facade with columns and a large clock, under a slightly overcast sky, representing local government. https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/cambridgeshire/general/anglia-ruskin-student-wins-black-talent-award Anglia Ruskin University medical student Jessica-Mary Onuoha wins the Rising Star of the Year award at the Black Talent Awards. — Based on information from the official source: Anglia Ruskin University (29/10/2026) Thu, 29 Oct 2026 13:54:30 GMT https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/cambridgeshire/general/anglia-ruskin-student-wins-black-talent-award Rebecca Flint Society Generic image: with a university building in the background. https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/hertfordshire/general/hertfordshire-council-reorganisation-decision-delayed-by-government Government withdraws decision on new unitary councils for Hertfordshire, delaying reorganisation plans and transition funding. — Based on information from the official source: Broxbourne Borough Council (29/10/2026) Thu, 29 Oct 2026 13:53:28 GMT https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/hertfordshire/general/hertfordshire-council-reorganisation-decision-delayed-by-government Eleanor Paget Politics Generic image of a gavel on official documents with blurred maps in the background. https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/cambridgeshire/general/local-government-reorganisation-decision-expected-by-early-2027 Government confirms timeline for local government reorganisation in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, with new Unitary Authorities planned for 2029. — Based on information from the official source: South Cambridgeshire District Council (29/10/2026) Thu, 29 Oct 2026 12:55:14 GMT https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/cambridgeshire/general/local-government-reorganisation-decision-expected-by-early-2027 Eleanor Paget Politics Generic image of a traditional stone town hall facade with an ornate balcony and iron railings, bathed in warm afternoon sunlight under a blue sky. https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/cambridgeshire/general/government-decision-on-local-government-reorganisation-delayed-again-for-cambridgeshire-and-peterborough Cambridgeshire County Council criticises government indecision on Local Government Reorganisation, citing increased risk and undermined trust. — Based on information from the official source: Cambridgeshire County Council (29/10/2026) Thu, 29 Oct 2026 12:54:46 GMT https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/cambridgeshire/general/government-decision-on-local-government-reorganisation-delayed-again-for-cambridgeshire-and-peterborough Eleanor Paget Politics Generic image of an empty government building facade with a stalled clock tower under overcast skies. https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/essex/brightlingsea/brightlingsea-residents-invited-to-pop-up-vaccination-clinic NHS walk-in clinic for flu and COVID-19 vaccines for Brightlingsea residents on Saturday, 7 November at the YMCA. Free parking available. — Based on information from the official source: NHS Essex Integrated Care Board (29/10/2026) Thu, 29 Oct 2026 12:53:53 GMT https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/essex/brightlingsea/brightlingsea-residents-invited-to-pop-up-vaccination-clinic Rebecca Flint Local Generic image of a pop-up vaccination clinic sign at a community centre. https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/essex/general/essex-peer-support-service-boosts-mental-health-and-confidence Discover how the EPUT and SUMMIT Peer Support Service in Essex is transforming mental health care by connecting people with lived experience to vital support. — Based on information from the official source: Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust (29/10/2026) Thu, 29 Oct 2026 11:54:03 GMT https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/essex/general/essex-peer-support-service-boosts-mental-health-and-confidence Rebecca Flint Society Generic image of a support group session in a comfortable room, with diverse individuals engaged in conversation and listening attentively. https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/essex/general/braintree-council-invests-nearly-400000-in-cost-of-living-support Braintree District Council invested nearly £400,000 in cost-of-living support in 2025/26, helping residents access food, financial advice, and wellbeing services. — Based on information from the official source: Braintree District Council (29/10/2026) Thu, 29 Oct 2026 10:54:05 GMT https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/essex/general/braintree-council-invests-nearly-400000-in-cost-of-living-support Rebecca Flint Local Generic image of essential groceries and coins, representing cost of living support. https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/suffolk/general/west-suffolk-council-consults-on-council-tax-reduction-extension West Suffolk Council launches consultation on extending Council Tax reduction scheme for low-income residents facing cost of living pressures. — Based on information from the official source: West Suffolk Council (29/10/2026) Thu, 29 Oct 2026 09:54:41 GMT https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/suffolk/general/west-suffolk-council-consults-on-council-tax-reduction-extension Rebecca Flint Local Generic image of a hand holding a pen over a document, with a blurred building in the background. https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/hertfordshire/general/hertfordshire-councils-welcome-budget-boost-for-local-investment Leaders from Stevenage, North Herts, Hertsmere, and Welwyn Hatfield councils react positively to the Budget's focus on local investment and devolution. — Based on information from the official source: Stevenage Borough Council (28/10/2026) Thu, 29 Oct 2026 06:54:08 GMT https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/hertfordshire/general/hertfordshire-councils-welcome-budget-boost-for-local-investment Eleanor Paget Politics Generic image of diverse hands reaching towards a document, with blurred government buildings in the background. https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/essex/general/thurrock-council-leads-major-clean-up-of-key-gateway-routes Thurrock Council, National Highways, and Connect Plus Services collaborate on a major clean-up operation for the A126 Dumbells Roundabout and A13. — Based on information from the official source: Thurrock Council (28/10/2026) Wed, 28 Oct 2026 17:54:55 GMT https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/essex/general/thurrock-council-leads-major-clean-up-of-key-gateway-routes Rebecca Flint Local Generic image of a clean road junction with green verges and clear signage. https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/hertfordshire/general/hertfordshire-secures-new-mayoral-strategic-authority-following-budget-announcement Hertfordshire to receive increased power and funding for local priorities, including housing and transport, through a new Mayoral Strategic Authority. — Based on information from the official source: Hertsmere Borough Council (28/10/2026) Wed, 28 Oct 2026 17:53:41 GMT https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/hertfordshire/general/hertfordshire-secures-new-mayoral-strategic-authority-following-budget-announcement Eleanor Paget Politics Generic image of a public institution building facade with columns under a clear sky. https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/essex/brentwood/brentwood-council-offers-support-to-central-post-office-amidst-tg-jones-closure Brentwood Borough Council is assisting the town centre's Post Office to find a new location following the planned closure of TG Jones in January 2027. — Based on information from the official source: Brentwood Borough Council (28/10/2026) Wed, 28 Oct 2026 16:54:02 GMT https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/essex/brentwood/brentwood-council-offers-support-to-central-post-office-amidst-tg-jones-closure Rebecca Flint Local Generic image of a town hall facade with a balcony. https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/hertfordshire/general/trees-at-penfold-golf-course-protected-by-council-order Three Rivers District Council has confirmed a Tree Preservation Order to protect trees at the former Penfold Park Golf Club site. — Based on information from the official source: Three Rivers District Council (28/10/2026) Wed, 28 Oct 2026 16:53:43 GMT https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/hertfordshire/general/trees-at-penfold-golf-course-protected-by-council-order Rebecca Flint Local Generic image of a protected tree trunk with detailed bark texture. https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/essex/southend-on-sea/southend-launches-music-board-to-boost-sector Southend-on-Sea City Council establishes its first Music Board to champion the city's rich musical history and foster emerging talent. — Based on information from the official source: Southend-on-Sea Borough Council (28/10/2026) Wed, 28 Oct 2026 13:54:18 GMT https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/essex/southend-on-sea/southend-launches-music-board-to-boost-sector Samuel Crowe Culture Generic image of abstract musical energy and creativity. https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/cambridgeshire/cambridge/north-cambridge-residents-invited-to-shape-new-homes-and-facilities Residents in North Cambridge are invited to have their say on new housing, community facilities, and green spaces at Arbury Court and Kingsway. — Based on information from the official source: Cambridge City Council (28/10/2026) Wed, 28 Oct 2026 13:53:41 GMT https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/cambridgeshire/cambridge/north-cambridge-residents-invited-to-shape-new-homes-and-facilities Rebecca Flint Local Generic image of a new housing development with green spaces and modern architecture. https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/essex/jaywick/sunspot-business-centre-boosts-sustainability-with-new-solar-panels Tendring District Council's Sunspot business centre in Jaywick Sands has installed new solar panels to cut carbon emissions and running costs. — Based on information from the official source: Tendring District Council (28/10/2026) Wed, 28 Oct 2026 12:54:39 GMT https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/essex/jaywick/sunspot-business-centre-boosts-sustainability-with-new-solar-panels Alice Hartwell Economy Generic image of solar panels installed on a building's roof. https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/essex/general/thurrock-to-hold-remembrance-events-across-borough-in-november Thurrock Council announces a series of Remembrance events and an Armistice exhibition in November 2026 to honour those who served. — Based on information from the official source: Thurrock Council (28/10/2026) Wed, 28 Oct 2026 12:54:11 GMT https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/essex/general/thurrock-to-hold-remembrance-events-across-borough-in-november Rebecca Flint Local Generic image of a war memorial with a poppy. https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/essex/general/clacton-gears-up-for-remembrance-sunday-service Clacton prepares for its annual Remembrance Sunday service on 8 November, honouring those who died in service. Parade and wreath-laying ceremony planned. — Based on information from the official source: Tendring District Council (28/10/2026) Wed, 28 Oct 2026 11:54:33 GMT https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/essex/general/clacton-gears-up-for-remembrance-sunday-service Rebecca Flint Local Generic image. https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/cambridgeshire/general/cambridgeshire-council-opens-applications-for-free-tree-and-hedgerow-packs Cambridgeshire County Council launches a free tree and hedgerow pack giveaway to boost wildlife habitats and green spaces across the county. — Based on information from the official source: Cambridgeshire County Council (28/10/2026) Wed, 28 Oct 2026 11:53:45 GMT https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/cambridgeshire/general/cambridgeshire-council-opens-applications-for-free-tree-and-hedgerow-packs Rebecca Flint Local Generic image of a young tree sapling planted in the ground, with a blurred rural landscape in the background. https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/suffolk/general/west-suffolk-council-appoints-hethel-innovation-for-new-17m-advanced-manufacturing-centre West Suffolk Council has appointed Hethel Innovation Ltd. as delivery partner for the new £17 million Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering Centre in Bury St Edmunds, opening Spring 2027. — Based on information from the official source: West Suffolk Council (28/10/2026) Wed, 28 Oct 2026 10:55:19 GMT https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/suffolk/general/west-suffolk-council-appoints-hethel-innovation-for-new-17m-advanced-manufacturing-centre Alice Hartwell Business Generic image of the exterior of a modern business centre with large windows. https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/cambridgeshire/general/south-cambridgeshire-council-seeks-resident-input-for-202728-priorities South Cambridgeshire District Council is inviting residents to share their views on priorities and spending for the upcoming year through a new survey. — Based on information from the official source: South Cambridgeshire District Council (28/10/2026) Wed, 28 Oct 2026 10:54:42 GMT https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/cambridgeshire/general/south-cambridgeshire-council-seeks-resident-input-for-202728-priorities Rebecca Flint Local Generic image of residents participating in a community survey. https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/cambridgeshire/cambridge/comets-unlikely-to-have-seeded-life-on-earth-new-study-suggests A new study by the University of Cambridge suggests comets were unlikely to have delivered the building blocks for life to Earth due to impact conditions. — Based on information from the official source: University of Cambridge (28/10/2026) Wed, 28 Oct 2026 10:53:56 GMT https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/cambridgeshire/cambridge/comets-unlikely-to-have-seeded-life-on-earth-new-study-suggests Peter Dunmore Technology Generic image of a comet in the night sky. https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/cambridgeshire/general/aru-to-research-harmful-adult-child-messaging-on-private-services Anglia Ruskin University will conduct a large-scale survey for the NSPCC to examine sexual communication between adults and children on private messaging services. — Based on information from the official source: Anglia Ruskin University (27/10/2026) Tue, 27 Oct 2026 19:54:17 GMT https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/cambridgeshire/general/aru-to-research-harmful-adult-child-messaging-on-private-services Rebecca Flint Society Generic image of abstract data visualisations on a laptop screen. https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/cambridgeshire/general/eye-scans-may-predict-future-heart-health-risks Explore how retinal imaging, using OCT technology, may predict future cardiovascular risks, including atrial fibrillation, according to new research. — Based on information from the official source: Anglia Ruskin University (26/10/2026) Tue, 27 Oct 2026 19:54:02 GMT https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/cambridgeshire/general/eye-scans-may-predict-future-heart-health-risks Peter Dunmore Technology Generic image of the delicate structure of the retina, showing blood vessels and nerve cells. https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/hertfordshire/stevenage/stevenage-council-consults-on-street-trading-changes Stevenage Borough Council is consulting on changes to street trading designations, including High Street and the Town Centre market site. — Based on information from the official source: Stevenage Borough Council (27/10/2026) Tue, 27 Oct 2026 18:54:07 GMT https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/hertfordshire/stevenage/stevenage-council-consults-on-street-trading-changes Rebecca Flint Local Generic image. https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/essex/general/former-mayor-raises-over-30000-for-end-of-life-care-appeal Former Southend Mayor Councillor Nigel Folkard has raised over £30,000 for the Dandelion Appeal to improve end-of-life care at Southend Hospital. — Based on information from the official source: Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust (27/10/2026) Tue, 27 Oct 2026 17:54:31 GMT https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/essex/general/former-mayor-raises-over-30000-for-end-of-life-care-appeal Rebecca Flint Society Generic image of people gathered outdoors, one holding a cheque, with a hospital building in the background. https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/bedfordshire/general/central-bedfordshire-council-invites-tenants-to-shape-housing-decisions Central Bedfordshire Council is forming new tenant panels to gather feedback and improve housing services, including repairs, complaints, and safety. — Based on information from the official source: Central Bedfordshire Council (27/10/2026) Tue, 27 Oct 2026 17:54:13 GMT https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/bedfordshire/general/central-bedfordshire-council-invites-tenants-to-shape-housing-decisions Rebecca Flint Local Generic image of a diverse group of people engaged in a meeting in a community room. https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/essex/general/fostering-after-50-andrea-shares-honest-answers-to-awkward-questions Andrea, 55, shares her experiences and honest answers about fostering later in life, covering age, skills, and the emotional aspects. — Based on information from the official source: Southend-on-Sea Borough Council (27/10/2026) Tue, 27 Oct 2026 16:55:08 GMT https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/essex/general/fostering-after-50-andrea-shares-honest-answers-to-awkward-questions Rebecca Flint Society Generic image of a cosy living room interior with armchairs and a noticeboard, evoking a sense of safety and care. https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/cambridgeshire/general/heart-failure-patients-in-east-of-england-benefit-from-advanced-remote-monitoring Advanced remote monitoring technology is helping patients with severe heart failure in the East of England avoid hospital admissions through early intervention. — Based on information from the official source: Royal Papworth Hospital NHS Foundation Trust (27/10/2026) Tue, 27 Oct 2026 16:53:03 GMT https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/cambridgeshire/general/heart-failure-patients-in-east-of-england-benefit-from-advanced-remote-monitoring Peter Dunmore Technology Generic image of a medical monitoring device on a bedside table. https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/essex/southend-on-sea/southend-waste-app-shortlisted-for-national-recycling-award Southend's Resident Waste App recognised for digital innovation in public engagement and recycling efforts. — Based on information from the official source: Southend-on-Sea Borough Council (27/10/2026) Tue, 27 Oct 2026 14:55:05 GMT https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/essex/southend-on-sea/southend-waste-app-shortlisted-for-national-recycling-award Rebecca Flint Local Generic image of a smartphone screen showing a waste and recycling app interface. https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/essex/general/thurrock-council-adopts-new-flag-flying-policy-to-boost-civic-pride Thurrock Council has introduced a new Flag Flying Policy to enhance civic pride and celebrate local heritage. — Based on information from the official source: Thurrock Council (27/10/2026) Tue, 27 Oct 2026 12:55:44 GMT https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/essex/general/thurrock-council-adopts-new-flag-flying-policy-to-boost-civic-pride Rebecca Flint Local Generic image of a town hall facade with a balcony and railings, in warm afternoon sunlight. https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/essex/grays/thurrock-council-promotes-sustainable-halloween-celebrations Thurrock Council encourages residents to celebrate Halloween sustainably by reusing costumes and making the most of pumpkins. — Based on information from the official source: Thurrock Council (27/10/2026) Tue, 27 Oct 2026 10:55:03 GMT https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/essex/grays/thurrock-council-promotes-sustainable-halloween-celebrations Rebecca Flint Local Generic image: suggesting sustainable celebration. https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/suffolk/general/west-suffolk-council-considers-sale-of-anglian-lane-property-for-college-expansion West Suffolk Council's Cabinet to consider selling Anglian Lane property to Eastern Education Group for West Suffolk College expansion. — Based on information from the official source: West Suffolk Council (27/10/2026) Tue, 27 Oct 2026 10:54:44 GMT https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/suffolk/general/west-suffolk-council-considers-sale-of-anglian-lane-property-for-college-expansion Rebecca Flint Local Generic image of a former retail property with sale signs. https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/hertfordshire/watford/watfords-tea-pavilion-celebrates-100-years Watford's historic Tea Pavilion in Cassiobury Park celebrates 100 years. Events include cake cutting, live music, a fancy-dress run, and a history talk. — Based on information from the official source: Watford Borough Council (27/10/2026) Tue, 27 Oct 2026 09:55:12 GMT https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/hertfordshire/watford/watfords-tea-pavilion-celebrates-100-years Rebecca Flint Local Generic image of a historic tea pavilion in a park with people celebrating. https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/essex/general/creative-workshops-boost-confidence-for-young-people-at-risk-of-psychosis EPUT's ARMS Service in Essex offers creative workshops, like Kintsugi, to support young people at risk of psychosis, fostering confidence and reducing isolation. — Based on information from the official source: Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust (27/10/2026) Tue, 27 Oct 2026 09:54:44 GMT https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/essex/general/creative-workshops-boost-confidence-for-young-people-at-risk-of-psychosis Rebecca Flint Society Generic image of hands repairing a broken object with gold material, highlighting the cracks. https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/essex/southend-on-sea/southend-city-council-launches-annual-toy-drive-for-festive-season Southend-on-Sea City Council's annual Toy Drive is back, seeking donations of new toys and vouchers to ensure vulnerable children have a magical Christmas. — Based on information from the official source: Southend-on-Sea Borough Council (27/10/2026) Tue, 27 Oct 2026 09:54:23 GMT https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/essex/southend-on-sea/southend-city-council-launches-annual-toy-drive-for-festive-season Rebecca Flint Local Generic image of a collection of new toys and gift vouchers arranged on a table. https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/essex/general/thurrock-council-urges-residents-to-quit-smoking-with-year-round-support Thurrock Council offers free, personalised support to help residents quit smoking all year round, with a final push during Stoptober. — Based on information from the official source: Thurrock Council (27/10/2026) Tue, 27 Oct 2026 09:54:09 GMT https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/essex/general/thurrock-council-urges-residents-to-quit-smoking-with-year-round-support Rebecca Flint Local Generic image of a hand holding a cigarette with a blurred background. https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/bedfordshire/general/central-bedfordshire-launches-first-best-start-family-hub-and-online-resource Central Bedfordshire Council launches its first Best Start Family Hub in Dunstable and a new online resource to improve family support services. — Based on information from the official source: Central Bedfordshire Council (26/10/2026) Mon, 26 Oct 2026 16:53:51 GMT https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/bedfordshire/general/central-bedfordshire-launches-first-best-start-family-hub-and-online-resource Rebecca Flint Local Generic image of a modern community centre interior with seating and play areas. https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/suffolk/general/west-suffolk-council-maintains-opposition-to-asylum-seeker-site-plans West Suffolk Council continues to oppose modified plans for the former RAF Barnham site to house asylum seekers, citing environmental and legislative constraints. — Based on information from the official source: West Suffolk Council (26/10/2026) Mon, 26 Oct 2026 15:55:40 GMT https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/suffolk/general/west-suffolk-council-maintains-opposition-to-asylum-seeker-site-plans Rebecca Flint Local Generic image of a formal stone building facade with large windows and a prominent entrance, set against a clear blue sky. https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/cambridgeshire/cambridge/councils-launch-drive-to-recycle-halloween-pumpkins Greater Cambridge Shared Waste Service urges residents to recycle pumpkins, turning them into renewable energy and fertiliser instead of landfill waste. — Based on information from the official source: South Cambridgeshire District Council (26/10/2026) Mon, 26 Oct 2026 14:55:26 GMT https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/cambridgeshire/cambridge/councils-launch-drive-to-recycle-halloween-pumpkins Rebecca Flint Local Generic image of carved pumpkins left on a doorstep. https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/essex/general/concert-raises-nearly-12000-for-prostate-cancer-research Second annual Music of the World Concert at Southend's Palace Theatre raises nearly £12,000 for vital prostate cancer research at Southend Hospital. — Based on information from the official source: Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust (26/10/2026) Mon, 26 Oct 2026 14:55:06 GMT https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/essex/general/concert-raises-nearly-12000-for-prostate-cancer-research Rebecca Flint Local Generic image of a stethoscope on sheet music. https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/hertfordshire/watford/watfords-winter-night-shelter-prepares-for-opening Watford's winter night shelter, a vital service for the homeless, is set to open, offering warmth, safety, and support to hundreds. — Based on information from the official source: Watford Borough Council (26/10/2026) Mon, 26 Oct 2026 14:53:55 GMT https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/hertfordshire/watford/watfords-winter-night-shelter-prepares-for-opening Rebecca Flint Local Generic image of a warm and welcoming night shelter interior, focusing on the sense of safety and respite. https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/suffolk/general/west-suffolk-exceeds-30-tonnes-in-small-electricals-recycling-scheme West Suffolk Council reports over 30 tonnes of small electricals recycled in a successful pilot scheme, confirming ongoing collection services. — Based on information from the official source: West Suffolk Council (26/10/2026) Mon, 26 Oct 2026 12:54:06 GMT https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/suffolk/general/west-suffolk-exceeds-30-tonnes-in-small-electricals-recycling-scheme Rebecca Flint Local Generic image of small electrical items being recycled. https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/bedfordshire/bedford/bedford-residents-exceed-2790-tonnes-in-food-waste-recycling-milestone Bedford Borough Council celebrates residents' success in food waste recycling, diverting over 2,790 tonnes and creating renewable energy. — Based on information from the official source: Bedford Borough Council (26/10/2026) Mon, 26 Oct 2026 12:53:27 GMT https://eastofenglandherald.co.uk/bedfordshire/bedford/bedford-residents-exceed-2790-tonnes-in-food-waste-recycling-milestone Rebecca Flint Local Generic image of a food waste caddy on a kitchen counter.