In January, Network Rail backed down to campaigners who gathered 1,600 signatures after the railway line operator said it was going to close Cottonmill Lane crossing.

After fears of people were not looking both ways and or concentrating when crossing the track, Network Railway decided to instead work on delivering safety improvements.

Cllr Sandy Walkington said: “This is brilliant news and a triumph for local residents. It shows that people and politician working together can make a difference.

The work towards safety in St Albans continued as more than 1,200 people signed a petition that caused St Albans District Council to call on Hertfordshire Constabulary to “retain safety” in Alban Way.

In September 2018, two people were assaulted by teenagers in the cycle and walk route and campaigners urged the council to improve safety by installing CCTV cameras.

Cllr Anthony Rowlands said: “The petition shows there is widespread concern that the Alban Way – one of our most treasured community assets – has become unsafe.”

Former St Albans MP, Anne Main and campaign group Save St Albans Pubs met with former Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury, Robert Jenrick MP to discuss the effect of business rates on the community’s pubs.

They were asked to get support from larger organisations across the country and Mrs Main debated the issue in the House of Commons.

'Freezing Frank' was the name given to a new gritter by seven-year-old school boy, Charlie Wappett who entered the name in a competition at the Hertfordshire County Show.

He said: "I’m so excited I won the competition and it was cool seeing my name on the gritter. I chose the name Freezing Frank as it has alliteration, which we have been learning at school."