Sophie England

Freedom Leisure and Braintree District Council are offering free family swimming sessions throughout August at Braintree Swimming and Fitness, Halstead Leisure Centre and Witham Leisure Centre. The programme is intended to help families stay active during the school holidays while reducing financial pressure, with additional low-cost activities such as inflatables, fun-and-floats sessions, and £1 sports sessions. Residents are advised to check availability and session times before attending.

More than 1,400 people attended the Festival of Essex Archaeology and Heritage at Cressing Temple Barns in Essex. Organized by Place Services at Essex County Council, the event featured archaeological displays, museum exhibits, Roman re-enactments, falconry, workshops and children's activities. Historic environment manager Tim Murphy said visitor numbers had increased significantly from the previous year, and planning has begun for the next festival in 2027.