Stevenage has been named as one of 50 worst places to live in the UK, according to a recent poll.

The annual vote, conducted by iLiveHere, saw 105,598 readers give their thoughts this year.

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Stevenage was named as the 42nd worst place to live, with Luton taking top spot.

The site describes Stevenage as "a town where you keep your head down when walking", and a place where "eye contact is not encouraged".

As a Stevenage-based publication, we feel the need to stand up for our town in the face of adversity.

With that in mind, here's five reasons why Stevenage isn't so bad after all.

1. Community spirit

The Comet: There are numerous examples of community spirit in Stevenage.There are numerous examples of community spirit in Stevenage. (Image: Google Maps)

There are numerous examples of community spirit in Stevenage.

On Tuesday (February 7), we brought you the story of a family "who lost everything in a tragic house fire".

The community came together to raise over £1,200 for the family, during a special fundraising event.

This isn't the first, and certainly won't be the last time our community has rallied together to take care of its own.

We also have a number of long-standing organisations and groups, such as People for People, which play an active role in supporting our town. 

2. Charity fundraising

The Comet: Fundraising for good stories is never too far from residents' minds.Fundraising for good stories is never too far from residents' minds. (Image: Stevenage Community Trust)

Fundraising for good causes is never far from residents' minds, with a range of organisations benefitting from the generosity of Stevenage locals over the years.

Back in November, Stevenage Community Trust event raised over £41,000 for heating grants and Christmas cards.

England's first black cricketer, Roland Butcher, attended the event.

The money raised on the night went towards distributing £150 Christmas gift cards and £300 heating grants to those most in need in the town - a particularly timely scheme, given the ongoing cost of living and energy crises. 

3. Independant businesses

The Comet: A number of family-run businesses are located in Stevenage.A number of family-run businesses are located in Stevenage. (Image: Jo Sorrell)

A number of family-run businesses are located in Stevenage and the surrounding area.

Our historic High Street in particular is bustling with independent, thriving businesses. 

Back in December, a business in Stevenage Old Town was named as the UK's most dog-friendly shop.

Cardies - a small independent greeting card shop - has been present on Stevenage High Street since 1988.

4. The regeneration

The Comet: A computer generated image of the Stevenage regeneration.A computer generated image of the Stevenage regeneration. (Image: Stevenage Borough Council)

Some are not overly pleased with the aesthetics of Stevenage town centre.

Because of this, a £1bn regeneration is currently under way, in an attempt to modernise the area - and showing we're a town worth investing in.

Not everyone is happy with the regeneration, but it does show that the town is moving forward in a positive direction. 

5. A sporting spirit

The Comet: Stevenage's sporting teams have seen much success in recent times.Stevenage's sporting teams have seen much success in recent times. (Image: Richard Ellis)

A number of sports clubs and groups operate in Stevenage, and have seen success over the years.

Just last month, Stevenage FC - of the fourth tier of England football - produced a historic performance against Premier League giants Aston Villa.

Another example saw Stevenage Hockey Club enjoy a particularly fruitful day, with 26 goals scored in eight games.

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