Hertsmere Borough Council is getting ready to celebrate its 50th anniversary in April.

Formed on April 1, 1974, under the Local Government Act, Hertsmere was created by combining Aldenham Parish from Watford Rural District, Bushey Urban District, Elstree Rural District and Potters Bar Urban District.

Coined from 'Hert', an abbreviation of Hertfordshire, and 'mere', an old term for boundary, the council's name is reflected in its coat of arms featuring a hart atop a boundary wall.

The council gained borough status on April 15, 1977, which allowed the council chair to take on the title of mayor.

The anniversary celebrations in 2024 will highlight community milestones and notable people.

Cllr Jeremy Newmark, leader of the council, said: "The 50th anniversary of the formation Hertsmere provides an ideal opportunity to celebrate our wonderful borough and mark the contributions of so many to Hertsmere life.

"We want to involve our residents in the celebration of Hertsmere.

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"(We) have set up an ideas board for people to contribute memories, photographs, and stories from across the borough over the last 50 years, as well as make suggestions on how to mark our golden anniversary.

"Our aim is to celebrate the people and places who have such a positive impact on the place we call home."

Residents can head to the council's interactive ideas page to get involved.