Review: Broxbourne Hustings (30.06.24)

Sunday evening we were thrilled to host the Broxbourne Hustings at Wormley Community Centre with support from the Broxbourne Muslim Community.

The Community Centred was standing room only, not even the England football match going to extra time could keep people away, with more than 150 in attendance to hear from the five candidates that were present. These were Nicolas Belfitt (Lib-Dem), Lewis Cocking (Conservative), Catherine Deakin (Labour), Brett Frewin (English Constitution Party), and Martin Harvey (UKIP). Owen Brett (Green) and Tom Holdsworth (Reform) were unable to attend.

The debate was good humoured and far ranging covering topics such as: the question of the UK’s role in world affairs and the impact this has on Broxbourne citizens; access to health and social care; the impact of climate change on Broxbourne; integrity in politics; and what the candidates would like us to pray for after the election. The similarities and differences between the parties were made clear without attempts to slight or talk across each other.

Time was against us, with the candidates and the audience enthusiastically exploring each topic. This meant not all of the submitted questions were answered, but we went away with us knowing our candidates better and the candidates knowing us and our concerns better too (they received copies of all the questions that had been submitted).

We will be praying for all the candidates in the coming days that God would work in them and through them for the good of our community and country.

Photos by John Forrest