Fun in the sun at our Mayor's Garden Party

On Sunday 11 May 2025, the Mayor of Dacorum hosted a Garden Party at Sunnyside’s Hemel Food Garden.

The free community event featured entertainment from local performers, including Hemel Hempstead Theatre Company, Dacorum Indian Society, The Hemel Hempstead Band, Dacorum Community Choir, Hemel Symphony Orchestra and Boxmoor Yoga.

Families enjoyed a variety of free activities, including face painting, balloon modelling and arts and crafts with Anna’s Funky Art. There were a range of games and stalls to explore, supported by DENS, Citizens Advice, Gadebridge WI, Community Action Dacorum, Code Ninjas Hemel and the Air Cadets. St John’s Ambulance also provided first aid demonstrations - training an impressive 180 visitors in CPR. 

Mayor of Dacorum, Cllr Brenda Link, said: “Thank you to Sunnyside Rural Trust for hosting the event in their beautiful Hemel Food Garden, and all the talented local performers, organisations and charities who gave their time. 

“Thanks also to the Council staff who made the event possible, our generous sponsors Cardo and Bugler Developments, and everyone who came along for helping to create such a lovely community feel.

“I would also like to take the opportunity to thank everyone who has supported me during my time as Mayor - I have thoroughly enjoyed my year, meeting so many wonderful people.”

James Cook, Managing Director for Cardo (South and Central), said: “At Cardo, we’re passionate about supporting the communities we work in - not just through our projects, but by backing events that bring people together and make a real difference.

“We’re grateful for the opportunity to be part of this special event, helping to raise awareness for local charities and providing families with a fun day to remember.

“Partnering with the Council on events such as the Mayor’s Garden Party helps to build a stronger, more connected community for everyone.”

Thomas Bugler, Head of Marketing at the Bugler Group, said: “We were pleased to support the 2025 Mayor’s Garden Party at Sunnyside Rural Trust in Hemel Hempstead. 

“We have a long history of working in Hemel Hempstead and the borough of Dacorum, and it was fantastic to celebrate with the community on a very sunny Sunday. Thank you to all who held activities, hosted stalls or performed at this wonderful party.”