This Week in Brentwood

Brentwood has seen a mix of community spirit and concerning events this week. On a positive note, local athletes are making waves: McCoy is tackling the gruelling London Marathon, jockey Hollie Doyle is determined to compete with the best, and a local horse, Calandagan, has stormed home to Sheema Classic glory, with 'Ombudsman' also looking in great shape for the Dubai Turf. Racing fans also have 'Spycatcher' to cheer for. For families, the stunning tulip field is back, offering a perfect spring day out, and the annual Arbor Day celebration is approaching. Active residents can look forward to adult basketball sessions for men aged 35+ and plans for a new £6.5 million pathway linking Brentwood and Havering. Financially, good news is on the horizon with potential savings of over £800 for households due to spring financial changes, and some local Postcode Lottery players have already won £1000. In sports, Brentwood FC Women secured a brilliant victory against Colchester United FC, though Brentwood Town experienced a tough loss. On the downside, the club faces setbacks with star player Ballyburn facing a significant spell on the sidelines. However, the week has also been marked by unsettling news. Counter-terrorism officers are assisting an investigation after pedestrians were hit by a car. There was also a fire at a Grade II listed mill, leading to a teenager's arrest, and another fire caused damage to a home in Brentwood. A tragic motorcycle crash on Highway 4 led to its closure and the loss of a motorcyclist. The Met Police are reviewing CCTV in relation to a phone theft. In other news, a significant shake-up is planned for local government across Essex, with all current councils set to be scrapped and a new five-council model adopted, a move that Essex County Council is reportedly preparing to legally challenge. On a lighter note, there's a discussion about common Essex stereotypes, and a report highlights that non-loyalty brand prices at Tesco and Sainsbury's are now more expensive than Waitrose. Actor Alan Ritchson has also been in the local news for unexpected reasons. Finally, local businesses are being recognised, with LOCALiQ UK winning a national hospitality marketing award for The Cut & Craft campaign.