This year, Stevenage celebrates 80 years as the UK's first new town. To mark this special milestone, we're inviting residents who are also celebrating their 80th birthday to join us for 80 at 80. A special afternoon tea celebrating the people who have helped shape our town over the last eight decades.

Guests can look forward to an afternoon of tea, entertainment, conversation and celebration with fellow Stevenage residents. Each successful applicant is welcome to bring one family member, friend or carer to share the occasion.

If you're turning, or have turned, 80 in 2026 and live in Stevenage Borough, we'd love to hear from you. Family members, friends and carers are also welcome to complete an application on behalf of someone who is eligible.

As places are limited applications will be entered into a ballot if we receive more eligible applications than spaces available. Applications close on 20 September and applicants will be informed of the outcome the week commencing 21 September.

Councillor Myla Arceno, Cabinet member for Culture, Leisure and Wellbeing said: “We are looking for people who turn 80 in 2026 to join this event and tell us their stories of life in Stevenage and meet others who have similar experiences of building lives in the town. We have so much to celebrate about our success story as a new town and this will be a wonderful event to mark this milestone.”

To be part of this event applicants must:

• be turning, or have turned, 80 between 1 January and 31 December 2026
• live within Stevenage Borough
• be willing and able to attend the celebration event.

To apply, or nominate someone, complete our online application form using the button below:

If you would prefer to apply over the phone or need support completing your application, please call 01438 242912.

Photography and filming may take place during the event to help us celebrate and share this special occasion. We'll always let attendees know on the day, and anyone who would prefer not to be photographed or filmed can let a member of staff know.