Halstead
Halstead is a town and civil parish found in Braintree District of Essex in England. The town is in close proximity to Colchester and Sudbury, in the Colne Valley. In accordance with the 2011 Census, Halstead has a permanent population of 11906. The town initially grew on the hill to the north of the river. The name Halstead is said to have actually stemmed from the Old English 'hald' (haven, shelter, healthy) and 'stede' (site, place or farm), meaning 'healthy farm' 'safe place' or 'place of refuge'. The historic core of Halstead can be observed on a walk up the market hill. There are lots of social, cultural and leisure opportunities in Halstead. A river walk runs through the town from east to west, and just outside the town is Broaks Wood, a popular area for walking owned by the Forestry Commission. Halstead Public Gardens were developed in 1900 and is noted for its floral exhibitions. Townsford Mill that stretches over the river at the bottom of the town houses the Antiques Centre, with countless intriguing pieces ranging from clothing to home products. A historical society regularly holds monthly meetings, and a town museum connected to the town council offices contains some historic artefacts and multiple objects confined to regional interest. The Empire Theatre in Butler Road hosts occasional bingo nights. Halstead is also the home of Hume's Bakery, which opened in 1960, and continues to trade at the exact same shop. Halstead's premier football club is Halstead Town F.C. The club plays in the 10th tier of the English football league system, in the Eastern Counties Football League Division One. The town is additionally home to a cricket club and a rugby club that play regularly. For all your home renovations, make sure to find reputable contractors in Halstead to make certain of quality.