Author Archives: Anna Bond

A Celebration in Miniature: Art Exhibition & Silent Auction at St Mary’s

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Tiny artworks will be taking centre stage this summer as St Mary’s Church, St Margarets hosts its Summer Art Exhibition: A Celebration in Miniature.

This unique community event will showcase a collection of miniature artworks inspired by the theme ‘Stanstead Abbotts & St Margarets’, all created by local artists. Visitors will also have the opportunity to take home a favourite piece by placing bids in a silent auction, with all proceeds supporting the work and ministry of St Mary’s Church, St Margarets.

The exhibition begins with a Preview Evening on Friday 31 July from 7.00pm to 9.00pm, where guests can enjoy cheese and wine while being among the first to view the artwork. The exhibition then continues on Saturday 1 August and Sunday 2 August, from 2.00pm to 5.00pm, with refreshments available.

The organisers are also inviting artists of all ages and abilities to get involved. Whether you paint, draw, stitch, print, photograph or create in another medium, this is a wonderful opportunity to share your creativity with the community. The challenge is simple: create a piece of artwork on a canvas A6 size or smaller, inspired by our beautiful local area of Stanstead Abbotts & St Margarets.

This promises to be a delightful celebration of local creativity in the beautiful setting of St Mary’s Church. Whether you’re submitting a piece of art, placing a bid, or simply coming along to admire the miniature masterpieces, everyone is warmly invited.

Artist submission deadline: 27 July 2026.
Entry fee: £5 per artwork.

For more information or to request an artist entry form, please contact admin@3churches.net.

Cocktails & Chaos with THECOLLINSON

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A new kind of art experience. Chaos, colour and pure creative energy.

Step inside a real working art studio and gallery, surrounded by seven local artists and seven completely different styles. The space hums, the walls breathe and you’re part of it the moment you walk in.

Come with a spark of an idea just a feeling, a colour, a mood and build it into something real with a little nudge of giddy encouragement from me, The Collinson.

Everything you need is provided. Every direction, every colour suggestion, every “go on, trust it” moment is there if you want it.

And you leave with a piece of art that you made raw, honest and entirely yours.

This isn’t your typical paint-and-sip. This is a night that actually means something.

—

Cocktails & Chaos — Hertford’s most expressive night out

  • £75.00
  • Doors open at 6:30.
  • Painting kicks off at 7.
  • Food lands at 8.
  • Brushes down at 9.
  • Dancing until the room decides it’s done. 💃🕺

🖌️ Live painting by The Collinson — unfiltered, unapologetic, electric.
🍸 Complimentary cocktail on arrival.
🥘 Half-time charcuterie board to refuel the chaos.
🍷 Fully licensed bar flowing all night.
🎨 All materials included — acrylics, charcoal, crayons, pencils, spray paint. Go feral.
🖼️ Take home a 40×30cm original artwork you created.
💬 Guidance available on colour, technique, and creative flow — only if you want it.
🛋️ Relaxed, informal, rea l— a working gallery and studio, not a staged workshop.
✨ Bold, messy, unforgettable. A night out that actually hits.

CHECK AVAILABLE DATES AND BOOK YOUR TICKETS HERE

Explore Bishop of St Albans’ hidden two-acre city centre oasis!

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Bishop Andrew has graciously agreed to the Bishop’s Garden being open to the public for four Sundays in the summer.

The garden will be open from 2 to 4pm on the following Sundays in June and July:

Sunday 28 June
Sunday 5 July
Sunday 12 July
Sunday 19 July

The two acres of garden is an oasis in central St Albans and visitors frequently comment on the fact that they did not know the garden was here or how extensive it is.

Entrance is £5 per person (children free) and dogs on leads are welcome.

All money raised is donated to the Beds and Herts Historic Churches Trust.

The Bishop of St Albans Garden

Abbey Gate House, Abbey Mill Lane, St Albans AL3 4HD

Advertiser of the Month: D. Sparwell Roofing Ltd

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This month, we are pleased to feature D. Sparwell Roofing Ltd as our Advertiser of the Month.

A trusted local business with more than 15 years’ experience, D. Sparwell Roofing Ltd provides a wide range of roofing services across the local area. Whether it’s a complete roof replacement, a flat roof repair, chimney work, lead work, fascias and guttering, or simply replacing a slipped tile, the team prides itself on delivering reliable workmanship with a friendly and professional approach.

The company offers free estimates, drone surveys on request and a 24-hour emergency call-out service, giving customers peace of mind when roofing problems arise. D. Sparwell Roofing Ltd also provides a 10-year guarantee on all new pitched and flat roofs.

As a local business, the team understands the importance of providing a dependable service and building lasting relationships with customers. Their focus on quality workmanship, clear communication and reliability has helped them establish an excellent reputation within the community.

If you would like to find out more about D. Sparwell Roofing Ltd or arrange a free quotation, you can contact the team on 07852 576194 or 01279 492048, or email sales@dsparwellroofing.co.uk.

Please remember to mention The Three Villages when making an enquiry!

Have Your Say in the 2026 Residents’ Survey

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Residents across Hertfordshire are being encouraged to take part in the 2026 Residents’ Survey and share their views on the issues that matter most to them.

The survey asks for feedback on local services, the area where you live and how you prefer to receive information. The results will help provide a better understanding of residents’ priorities and experiences across the county, helping to shape future services and decision-making.

The more people who take part, the more accurate the picture will be, so we would encourage as many local residents as possible to complete the survey and share it with friends, family and community groups.

The survey takes less than 10 minutes to complete and is open until Sunday 12 July.

This is an opportunity to have your voice heard and help influence the future of services in our area, so if you have a few minutes to spare, please consider taking part.

Complete the survey HERE.

Illustration by Sayyam Abbasi on Unsplash

Can You Solve the Mystery? Join the Scouts for a Night of Murder, Mystery and Fun

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You are warmly invited to an interactive evening of intrigue, laughter and suspense at our Scout HQ as we host a very special event.

Murder at the Golden Woggle

A big local Scouting award night is about to begin, tensions are running high, and then everything takes a dramatic turn. You will help solve the case by listening for clues, asking questions from your table, and making your best accusation later in the evening.

What follows is a brilliantly entertaining, interactive murder mystery where everyone becomes part of the investigation. Expect twists, rivalries, secrets and plenty of opportunity to test your detective skills as the story unfolds around you.

This fantastic production is being brought to you by Hunsdon’s Quintessence Drama Group in support of fundraising for Bex’s World Scout Jamboree, and we are delighted to be hosting it here in Stanstead Abbotts.

Event details

  • Date: Saturday 11 July 2026
  • Doors open: 7.00 pm
  • Start: 7.30 pm 
  • Finish: 9.30 pm
  • Location: Stanstead Abbotts Scout HQ, Marsh Lane, Stanstead Abbotts, SG12 8QT (please do not park on Marsh Lane, use the village car park or other parking in the area)
  • Recommended age: Cubs (8.5yr) and above.

Tables and teams
To make the table detective work fun, we suggest booking in groups of around 3 to 7 people, we can fit up to 7 on a table.  Smaller groups are welcome, and we will help combine tables on the night if needed. If you are booking as a group please let us know. We will do our best to arrange groups together but cannot guarantee this due to the setup.

It is a relaxed, social evening so please:

  • Bring your own drinks
  • Visit the cake stall and take part in the raffle
  • The organisers will provide some small table nibbles to keep your brain active

Tickets
There are only 70 tickets available, so we strongly recommend booking early to avoid disappointment.

Tickets are £10 each (+80p booking fee) only available online. Book tickets HERE.

This promises to be a memorable night for the whole Scout community, full of fun, mystery and a great cause.

We very much hope you can join us.

Stanstead Abbotts Scout Group
stansteadabbottsscouts.org.uk

Introducing Makers & Bakers on the Move

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Excitement is building as Makers & Bakers on the Move launches its brand new series of travelling village pop-up markets across Hertfordshire.

The new community market experience will bring together artisan stalls, delicious street food, refreshing drinks and free children’s crafts, creating a fantastic day out for the whole family in some beautiful local settings.

The first event takes place on Sunday 14th June from 10am–3pm at Stanstead Abbotts & St Margarets Village Club, where visitors can browse a wonderful selection of handmade crafts, gifts, artwork, baked treats and locally produced goods from talented independent makers and traders.

Designed to celebrate local creativity and community spirit, Makers & Bakers on the Move aims to showcase the very best small businesses and artisans across Hertfordshire villages, while offering a warm and welcoming atmosphere for visitors of all ages.

With free entry and exciting locations planned throughout the year, this new travelling market series promises to become a popular addition to the local community calendar.

Be sure to pop along, support local businesses and enjoy everything this wonderful new market experience has to offer.

The Three Villages Magazine: June Issue is here!

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The June Issue of The Three Villages Magazine is now available to pick up FOR FREE across the villages.

In this issue, we have a special double-page feature uncovering the fascinating history of Briggens House; a Business Spotlight on much-loved local pub, The George IV; another delicious easy bake for you to try; and the next in our fantastic series, ‘Glimpses into our Past’.

You can get The Three Villages Magazine from, but not limited to, the following locations:
The Village Pharmacy
St John the Baptist Church
St Mary’s Church
St Andrew’s Church
The Bridge Shop
The Maltings Café
St Margarets Train Station

Also, if you can’t get out to get a copy, you can text (07488 914972) or call us (01920 870115) and we will get one to you.

Thank you for your continued support,
The Three Villages Team

Don’t forget…
We would love to hear from you if you have an interesting story or an upcoming event to promote. The approximate deadlines for submissions are: 3rd July (September Issue) and 3rd October (December Issue). Alternatively, we can also promote your upcoming event/share your news on our News & Events blog. Please do get in touch (print.threevillagesmagazine@gmail.com)!

Advertiser of the Month: Willowthorpe Residential Care Home

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This month, we are delighted to feature Willowthorpe Residential Care Home as our Advertiser of the Month, recognising their continued dedication to providing exceptional care within our local community.

Set in peaceful surroundings beside the River Lea, Willowthorpe has been providing compassionate residential care for over 20 years.

Part of B&M Care, the home offers specialist dementia, respite, long-term and end-of-life care in a warm and welcoming environment. With 56 rooms – soon expanding to 60 – and a dedicated 69-member team providing 24-hour support, Willowthorpe is known for its high standards of person-centred care.

Community connection remains at the heart of life at Willowthorpe. Residents regularly enjoy visits from local schools and youth groups, helping to create meaningful intergenerational friendships. The home also proudly supports local charitable initiatives, including the Hertfordshire Police Christmas Appeal.

A much-loved member of the Willowthorpe family is resident cat Tom, who has been bringing comfort and companionship to residents for more than 15 years.

Led by Home Manager Lisa Edwards, the team is committed to creating a true ‘home-from-home’ atmosphere where every resident is treated with dignity, kindness and respect.

If you would like to find out more about Willowthorpe Residential Care Home, including care services, careers, or volunteering opportunities, please contact the team (Email: willowthorpe@bmcare.co.uk).

Equine Table Top Sale & Dog Show Returns on 31st May

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Animal lovers, bargain hunters and families alike are invited to enjoy a fun-filled community event at the upcoming Equine Table Top Sale & Dog Show on Sunday 31st May at Widford Playing Fields (SG12 8SL) from 11am to 1pm.

This popular local event promises a fantastic morning packed with great finds, family entertainment and plenty of four-legged fun – all while supporting a wonderful wildlife cause.

Visitors can browse a variety of amazing items for sale at the table top stalls, enjoy refreshments and cheer on entrants in the much-loved Dog Show. The event is set to be a lively and enjoyable occasion for all ages.

Adding to the excitement, Sammies Animal Experiences will also be attending with:

  • Donkey rides – £4
  • Grooming Shetland ponies – £3

Entry to the event is just £1, with Dog Show entries costing £2 per show, per dog, per class. Both cash and card payments will be accepted on the day.

Importantly, all money raised will go to support Wild At Heart Rescue, a small wildlife rescue CIC based in Uttlesford, Essex. The organisation is dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating and releasing wildlife, helping injured and vulnerable animals recover and return safely to the wild. You can learn more about their work via Wild At Heart Rescue Facebook page (facebook.com/WildAtHeartRescueAndRehab).

The organisers would also like to thank the event sponsors:

Make sure to save the date and come along to support a brilliant local cause while enjoying a fun community day out.

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