Halstead
Halstead is a town and civil parish located in Braintree District of Essex in England. The town is in close proximity to Colchester and Sudbury, in the Colne Valley. According to the 2011 Census, Halstead has a permanent population of 11906. The town initially formed on the hill to the north of the river. The name Halstead is claimed to have derived from the Old English 'hald' (refuge, shelter, healthy) and 'stede' (site, place or farm), meaning 'healthy farm' 'safe place' or 'place of haven'. The historical core of Halstead can be noted on a walk up the market hill. There are an abundance of social, cultural and leisure opportunities in Halstead. A river walk goes through the town from east to west, and just outside the town is Broaks Wood, a popular space for taking a walk owned by the Forestry Commission. Halstead Public Gardens were set up in 1900 and is noted for its flower exhibits. Townsford Mill that stretches over the river at the bottom of the town houses the Antiques Centre, with countless interesting pieces ranging from clothes to household objects. A historical society routinely holds monthly conferences, and a town museum connected to the town council offices features some historical artefacts and several things confined to local interest. The Empire Theatre in Butler Road hosts infrequent bingo nights. Halstead is also the home of Hume's Bakery, which opened in 1960, and continues to trade at the very same store. 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 also the home of a cricket club and a rugby club that play regularly. For all your home renovations, be sure to find respected professionals in Halstead to make certain of quality.