A natural phenomenon that happens, it seems, more frequently in the town than I can remember is the recent appearance of the Aurora Borealis or Northern Lights. Whilst I did not see it myself, the images posted on various social media sites were stunning. Due to copyright legislation, we are not allowed to reproduce these images without the express permission of the person that took them. If you are able visit the Facebook page of Riverwatch-Buntingford there are some stunning images there.

It was pleasing to note that during the recent heavy rain, that raised the level of the river significantly for about 2 days, the berms and most of the plants remained un-affected. We are looking forward to seeing the designs and plans that have been commissioned by the Town Council and Herts & Middlesex Wildlife Trust to carry out works from the Weir to the Luynes Rise bridge to alleviate bank erosion on the east bank and make the west bank into a more user friendly "green open space" for all to enjoy.

I look forward with interest to the upcoming "Buntingford Live" Ghost Walk planned for November, which I hope will include tales of the "dastardly" individuals that have been incarcerated in the "Cage" back through the annals of time. It is thought that most of the buildings in the town are "haunted", "Harry" in the Manor House, the mystery of the "crying baby" in the old Bell Inn.

I understand that there has been quite a lot of comment on social media, mainly Facebook, about the proposed alterations to the High Street and Baldock Road. This is phase 2 of the HCC Active Travel Fund for the Town. The survey will have closed by the time you read this, 21st October, but I hope that you have taken the time to look at the detail of the proposals and commented on them using the HCC consultation survey. The aim of the scheme is to improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists. I would hope that you have formed your own opinion and commented accordingly via the official channel.

It is pleasing to note that the joint initiative by HCC, EHDC and the Town Council to "tidy up" the High Street has started with the painting of the bollards, black and gold. A vast improvement with the next phase, repairs to footways etc, expected in the new year.

Hope you have an enjoyable November and don't forget Remembrance Sunday at the War Memorial on the 10th and Lights of Love, Christmas Late Night Shopping and Christmas Lights switch-on on the 29th.

Graham Waite, Chairman, Buntingford Civic Society

If you have any queries about Buntingford Civic Society or issues you would like to raise, you can email the Chairman direct at chairman@buntingfordcivic.org.uk.

The November issue of the Buntingford Journal will be available from the usual retailers from 25th October.

More information about the Buntingford Civic Society can be found here and membership forms can be found here.

This website and all the pages herein are © Buntingford Civic Society.