Group sets out its stall to boost town

6:05pm Wednesday 4th July 2001

Voluntary groups, youth organisations and businesses could be given a boost this autumn if an idea from the Borehamwood Town Centre Panel is acted upon.

The panel hopes to set up a community fair, where groups such as the Citizens Advice Bureau or Boreham Wood Football Club would set up stalls in Shenley Road, to let people know what they have to offer.

A similar fair is already held every year in Potters Bar. Morgan Edwards, a member of the Town Centre Panel, said he thought it was a good idea, which could work in Borehamwood.

"I went to the one in Potters Bar, and it was a complete success," he said, adding: "I found about things that I didn't know existed. I think it would be great for Borehamwood."

He said up to 100 stalls could be set up in Shenley Road, bringing in extra shoppers and pedestrians. Voluntary groups would be able to meet people they would normally miss though sending out leaflets.

Rich Cooke, an officer at Hertsmere Borough Council who helps to organise the Potter Bar Community Fair, said there was no reason why one could not be held in Borehamwood.

He said the fair would cost very little to run, and would be a welcome addition to the Civic Pride scheme, in which Hertsmere residents are encouraged to look after, and feel proud of, their towns.

Stallholders would be charged around £5 for the day, and the stalls would probably be located outside All Saints Church in Shenley Road, where the pavement is wide. The most likely date for the fair is Saturday, August 18.

Mr Edwards said he hopes to hear from voluntary groups and businesses who would like to be included in the event, and volunteers who could help to make it work. For more information telephone 020 8207 6767.

*Rex Emery, from the Hertsmere Chamber of Trade, also hopes to bring something new to Shenley Road.

He is looking into the idea of holding a themed fancy dress evening in the popular shopping street, where shopkeepers would dress up, and possibly stay open for longer than usual, giving commuters the chance to go shopping after work.

He is discussing the idea with the Borehamwood Town Centre Panel, and the two organisations could work together to bring about the event.

"We want to make Borehamwood a better place to shop in," he said.

Mr Emery is now talking to members of other chambers of trade around Britain, to see whether the events have proved successful when held in other towns.

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