Hitchin BID (trading as Visit Hitchin) has announced the appointment of Danny Pearson as Acting Town Centre Manager, effective from 1 September 2025.

Danny, often described as "Mr. Hitchin," is a familiar face in the community and has lived in the town for more than forty years. A long-standing resident with a career in local council, he has spent the past year working as Deputy to outgoing Town Centre Manager Tom Hardy, building strong ties with local businesses and community groups.

Mark Shields, Chairman of Hitchin BID, said: "Danny is ideally placed to continue driving the success of our town centre. With his deep knowledge of Hitchin, his commitment to the community, and his passion for the town, he will be a huge asset in supporting and promoting BID businesses. On behalf of the Board, I would also like to thank Tom Hardy for his valued contribution during his tenure, and I know the town will join me in welcoming Danny to his new role and wishing him every success."

Reflecting on his appointment, Danny Pearson said: "This feels like a role I have been training for my whole life, and I'm thrilled to be taking it on. As someone born and raised in Hitchin, I feel deeply passionate about this town and very proud to have the opportunity to promote our businesses and community. Hitchin fascinates me every day with its history, its people, its hidden corners and I want to encourage everyone to explore it, support local shops, and discover all it has to offer. I look forward to working with as many of you as possible as we continue to elevate our amazing town."

Outgoing Town Centre Manager Tom Hardy, who has served for the past seven years, praised Danny as the perfect successor: "It has been a real privilege to serve as Town Centre Manager over the past seven years, and I'm incredibly proud of what we've achieved together as a town. As I step aside, I can't think of anyone better to take on the role than Danny Pearson. His passion, dedication, and strong relationships with businesses are second to none, and I know Hitchin will continue to thrive under his leadership."

Danny officially takes up the role on 1 September, as Hitchin BID looks ahead to another busy year of supporting businesses, promoting events, and championing the unique character of the town centre.