Big Beach and Big Screen will follow Big Centenary Bash

Here in Watford we also have the chance this year to celebrate the centenary as it is 100 years since the town was awarded its borough status by Royal Charter. It was wonderful to see thousands of people join us for the special event to mark this in Cassiobury Park at the start of the month. I am so grateful to everyone who made this such a success, from Naughty Boy, Rak-Su and all the performers, to the team who kept the park clean throughout the day and the many people behind the scenes who worked so hard.

Watford's Big Centenary Celebration

Occasions such as these really highlight the importance of community, and we are so lucky in Watford to have such a friendly and supportive neighbourhood. Over the next couple of months we will be continuing with our fantastic line-up of free events taking place throughout Watford, including our much loved Big Screen and Big Beach and, back by popular demand, Big Sports will be returning at the start of September! You can find out details of all the events we have going on over the summer here: www.watfordbigevents.co.uk/events

We are doing lots of work to continuously improve the local neighbourhoods in Watford and our latest project takes the form of the Neighbourhood Grant. This will provide funding of up to £20,000 to improve, benefit and shape our local communities. Grants will be awarded for things that will benefit local neighbourhoods with projects such as improving play facilities, traffic calming measures and public art displays. The best part of this new grant is that your local community will have a say in what your area needs the most!

To find out more about the Neighbourhood Grant and apply, please visit watfordneighbourhoodgrant.commonplace.is or email NCIL@watford.gov.uk.

• Peter Taylor is Elected Mayor of Watford