Sinead Corr

1 day ago | bishopsstortfordindependent.co.uk | Sinead Corr

The latest novel from Bishop’s Stortford author Anna Smith Spark, the Queen of Grimdark, is ready for publication. A Sword of Gold and Ruin is the sequel to her folk horror high fantasy, A Sword of Bronze and Ashes. Her writing career began with her acclaimed grimdark epic fantasy Empires of Dust trilogy: The Court of Broken Knives, The Tower of Living and Dying and The House of Sacrifice.

1 day ago | bishopsstortfordindependent.co.uk | Sinead Corr

Mind in West Essex is collaborating with four other branches in Essex to support people across the county. The new partnership was officially announced during Mental Health Awareness Week (May 12 to 18) and aims to offer a more joined-up approach. Alison Wilson, chief executive of Mind in West Essex, said: “We’re really excited about this new development. We’re all stronger when we work as a team and keen to make the most out of the opportunities this partnership offers.

1 day ago | bishopsstortfordindependent.co.uk | Sinead Corr

Published: 14:23, 14 May 2025 A week of action to combat knife crime in Hertfordshire will begin on Monday, May 19. Incidents in the county remain low, but the campaign aims to raise awareness that carrying a knife is illegal. The constabulary will carry out knife detection operations and talk to retailers to ensure knives are not sold to under-18s. The campaign will also educate young people, via school visits and social media, about the dangers of carrying a knife.

1 day ago | bishopsstortfordindependent.co.uk | Sinead Corr

Stone Valley South festival returns to East Herts this month for three days of ska, punk, rock and indie music. Public Image Ltd, The Fratellis and The Undertones are the headliners for the event at Pepper Hill Farm, Great Amwell, which kicks off on Friday, May 23. British ska/soul/reggae band AKA The Syndicate takes to the stage first, followed by “the undisputed masters of backbeat wizardry” Bombskare.

1 day ago | bishopsstortfordindependent.co.uk | Sinead Corr

Campaigner Valerie Lolomari, the founder of Women of Grace UK, enjoyed a visit to Buckingham Palace for a garden party hosted by King Charles. The Takeley mother of three was recognised for her community development and advocacy work — particularly with survivors of female genital mutilation (FGM), sex-based violence, and mental health challenges. Valerie, accompanied by husband Tony, said: “It was a deeply humbling and unforgettable experience.