Locals have said they are “happy” in their hometown, praising it for its “friendly community” and “gorgeous” walks. Conveniently located between Ely, Cambridge, and Newmarket is the town of Soham.

Home to over 12,000 people, Soham is the second largest town in East Cambridgeshire, after Ely. The town has a significant history, dating back to the Bronze Age. It also had a significant Roman and Saxon occupation.

As part of our Exploring Cambridgeshire series, we visited the town and spoke to people about what it is like to live in Soham. After the death of Ian Huntley, who killed 10-year-olds Jessica Chapman and Holly Wells in 2002, locals hope the town will no longer be known for only its darkest days.

Jean Alljood has lived in Soham since 2006, and she said she is “happy” living in the town. She added: “It’s a friendly community. It has what you need for everyday stuff. I like it where I live.” Jean’s two sisters also live in Soham, and she looks after them.

She added: “I have a few friends but I don’t socialise much, I just like to walk my dog. This time of year isn’t as good, but in the summer we can go places like by the river.

“For people who like socialising, you can go to cafes – there are plenty of them! There are also some nice Portuguese places. There are also some good children’s play parks.”

One man, who asked to remain anonymous, also said Soham has “everything you need”. He added: “People are nice and helpful. There are some lovely walks.”

Emily Mills said it is a “lovely town” with a “good character to it”. She said: “I only moved here three years ago, but I am definitely not moving away now. It’s got everything so close like the Co-op and also a big Asda.

“We have some lovely buildings like the church. Most people will say hello to you, and it has some cute walks by the river.”

One woman, who wished to not be named, said it’s a “good town to be close to other places”. She praised its location, saying: “You are not far away from places like Cambridge for tourist spots, or even Ely for the cathedral. We’re even close to Newmarket for racing.”

She ecohed other residents who said that locals are friendly, creating a strong sense of community. The woman added that a “lot of people greet you, even when you don’t know them”.