Hitchin Nub News is proud have columns from many big names in our town, including Elizabeth Dennis-Harburg, leader of North Herts District Council.

Back in May Elizabeth became only the second woman to lead NHDC in its 47 year history.

So, read on for the Labour group leader's must-read take here at Hitchin Nub News on the benefits of being active this August - and beyond!

"Mum! I'm bored!"

"Mum, there's nothing to do!"

"…" (that's my teenager who spends so much time in her room I worry she may develop a vitamin D deficiency.)

How many parents can identify with this at peak summer holiday point?

But there's no need to be bored, there are things to do, and yes, there are even things that will tempt teenagers out of hibernation going on in North Herts.

Across the whole district we've got activities from sports, to crafts, to food festivals and arts fairs.

And of course the beach is back in Hitchin.

We've put together some of our best days out in North Herts here

British Cycling is also presenting a summer of cycling with events across the country.

There's never been a better time to get on your bike and get active, with fun challenges, led bike rides, and Stravia challenges.

Check out the Let's Ride website for more here

After 18 months of seeming perpetual lockdowns it's beneficial to us all physically and mentally to get out and about.

Moving more not only helps improve our fitness, but can give you a little endorphin boost.

I am a big fan of taking short walks around the block to help clear my head during the working day – I'm not one for meditation as I can't sit still - but find just being outside and taking time away from a screen is hugely beneficial.

I am also relieved and grateful that gyms are back to normal. No more kitchen workouts, no more lugging weights and yoga mats to the park to facilitate a lunchtime work out at work.

I'm proud we were able to support Stevenage Leisure Limited through the pandemic, which proved fatal for some sports and leisure facilities.

The Joint Administration at NHDC safeguarded accessible and affordable leisure facilities for all our residents.

As a regular user of the North Herts Leisure Centre, I feel safe and happy – if anything the gym is probably cleaner than it was before covid as everyone wipes down equipment after use.

Like most places, gym users are asked to wear masks on entry and exit, but may remove them to work out.

Although social distancing isn't officially operating, everyone tends to be responsible and keep a safe distance, which let's face it you'd expect if you were swinging weights about.

We've listened to you when it's come to outdoor pools too. We know how popular our facilities in Hitchin and Letchworth are, and how disappointed people were when they couldn't open last year because of the virus.

So we're opening the Hitchin pool until September 19 this year so everyone has the opportunity to make the most of the summer and early autumn and enjoy swimming outdoors.

If you've got a season ticket for the Letchworth pool you'll be able to use that in Hitchin.

So kids, there's lots going on, it's all on your doorstep, get out there and enjoy yourselves.