A new countywide initiative celebrating unity and community spirit across Hertfordshire has officially launched, with residents and organisations in Hitchin encouraged to get involved throughout 2026.

Herts Together will run across the county for the whole of the year, bringing together events, stories and activities designed to showcase how communities can achieve more when they work together.

The programme launched at St Albans Cathedral on Tuesday 10 February, where representatives from emergency services, councils, charities, faith groups, youth organisations and community groups gathered to mark the start of the initiative.

Organisers say the campaign highlights the compassion and cooperation already seen across towns and villages — including Hitchin, where volunteers, local groups and businesses regularly collaborate on community projects and events.

The initiative carries the message: "One County, Many Voices, Shared Future", celebrating Hertfordshire's diversity and shared community pride.

Throughout 2026, events and activities will focus on seven themes:

• Sport and Wellbeing

• Music and Arts

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• Food and Culinary Heritage

• Business and Commerce

• Family, Young People and Education

• Faith, Culture and Worship

• Nature and Environment

This means residents in Hitchin could see local festivals, cultural celebrations, youth projects, business forums and community partnerships forming part of the programme.

Lord Lieutenant of Hertfordshire Robert Voss CBE CStJ said the initiative comes at an important time.

He said: "In the current uncertain and nervous times it has never been more important to bring the people of Hertfordshire together and show that we are indeed a united county.

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"By showcasing the many events and activities taking place around the county, people can see what others in the community are doing and hopefully increase our appreciation of this great diverse county."

Chief Constable Andy Prophet added that bringing communities together helps create safer and stronger neighbourhoods.

He said: "By standing alongside our partners and residents, we can listen, learn and work together to ensure Hertfordshire remains a place where people feel protected, respected and included."

Akhtar Zaman DL, Chair of the St Albans Islamic Centre, said the year of celebration would strengthen connections across communities.

He said: "Together, we can shape a future that reflects our shared vision: One County, Many Voices, Shared Future."

Chief Fire Officer Alex Woodman, Chair of the Hertfordshire Local Resilience Forum, encouraged schools, businesses and community groups to take part.

Residents, charities and organisations in Hitchin interested in getting involved or hosting events as part of Herts Together can find more details online via the Herts Together website.