For centuries, our market towns and historic valleys were built on community. We used to know our neighbours. We used to know the baker, the cobbler and the face behind the counter by name. We’d exchange stories across an actual countertop. Today, we too often trade that human connection for the ease of self-service machines and we unthinkingly support faceless online giants because we can hit 'Buy Now'.

Independent traders have always been central to keeping community alive. From the ancient high streets of Berkhamsted and Tring to the historic heart of Hemel Old Town and our surrounding villages, Dacorum’s local businesses have always done far more than just exchange goods - they anchor our heritage, drive our local economy and tell our collective story.

We exist because the heartbeat that keeps our community alive and thriving is worth fighting for. In an era dominated by the anonymous online stores and corporate retail parks (that are often a carbon copy of others in neighbouring towns), the quiet, dedicated independent traders, retailers and service businesses across our borough are too easily drowned out, left struggling and dying in front of our faces.

What About Us? exists as a modern community crier for the entirety of Dacorum. By combining visual storytelling, deep-dive podcasting and authentic journalism, we shine an unmissable light on the dreamers, creators and businesses right on your doorstep and put names to the local familiar faces.

We aren't just archiving our local history; we are helping to write its next great chapter by reconnecting the community with the extraordinary people who make our borough feel like home.

It’s time to learn from the past and turn back time!