Author Archives: Anna Bond

Advertiser of the Month: The Red Lion

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This month, we’re thrilled to shine the spotlight on The Red Lion, the heart of Stanstead Abbotts, where great food, warm hospitality and a vibrant community spirit come together.

Nestled in the village centre, The Red Lion offers more than just a meal – it’s an experience. Whether you’re enjoying a sunny afternoon in their pub garden or catching up with friends over a drink in the bar, this is the place to relax, unwind and soak up the welcoming atmosphere. For those of you with four-legged companions, the pub is dog-friendly, so your furry friends can join the fun too.

At the helm of the kitchen is Head Chef Michael Duckett, bringing a wealth of experience and a passion for fresh, imaginative dishes. From Wednesday to Sunday, guests can enjoy a menu crafted with love, featuring seasonal ingredients, 100% certified grass-fed beef, locally sourced vegetables and fresh pasta. And don’t forget the Sunday Roast – a village favourite served from 12–4 pm, featuring a mouth-watering trio of meats. Booking ahead is always recommended to secure your spot.

But the delights don’t stop at food. The Red Lion regularly hosts special events and celebrations, and their beautiful marquee is available for hire, perfect for birthdays, Christmas parties and all kinds of gatherings. Whether you’re planning an intimate get-together or a grand celebration, the team is on hand to create a bespoke event tailored just for you.

For sports enthusiasts, The Red Lion is the place to catch the action, showing Sky Sports on all screens, whether you’re inside the bar, outside on the patio, or enjoying the garden.

With so much on offer, The Red Lion is more than just a pub – it’s a cornerstone of our community. Make sure to join their mailing list to stay up to date with the latest news, events and seasonal specials.

If you haven’t yet experienced The Red Lion, now is the perfect time. Book a table, bring your friends (and dogs!), and discover why this Stanstead Abbotts gem is our Advertiser of the Month.

Find out more: theredlion.net

The Red Lion’s Christmas Market

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The Red Lion’s Christmas market will be taking place on Saturday 29th November, 12–4pm.

The perfect place to pick up some stocking fillers, decorations, cakes, jewellery, cheese, candles, mulled wine… the list goes on!

Expect cosy vibes, twinkling lights and a fantastic food truck serving up delicious Christmassy specials all day long.

Bring your friends, family and festive cheer – it’s the perfect way to get into the Christmas spirit!

The Red Lion
1 High Street, Stanstead Abbotts
info@theredlion.net
theredlion.net

Relax, Refresh & Reconnect at The Hub – Wellbeing Evening

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Looking for a relaxing way to end the week and nourish your mind, body and soul? Join us for a Wellbeing Evening at The Hub on Friday 21st November from 6.30pm to 10.30pm.

This uplifting community event will feature taster sessions of holistic and healing therapies, giving you the perfect opportunity to try something new in a calm, welcoming space. Whether you’re curious about alternative therapies or simply want an evening to unwind, this is the perfect place to start.

Alongside the treatments, you can enjoy a delicious selection of hot and cold drinks, cakes and other yummy food – all designed to make your evening extra special.

Come along, relax and connect with others in the community while discovering new ways to enhance your wellbeing.

📍 Venue: The Hub, 2B High Street, Stanstead Abbotts, SG12 8AB
🗓 Date: Friday 21st November
🕡 Time: 6.30–10.30pm

For more information or to book a taster session, contact Joanne:
📞 07884 292323
📧 joannelyon662@hotmail.co.uk

Let’s make this evening one of relaxation, connection and positivity. Everyone is welcome – come along and give yourself the gift of wellbeing!

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‘Start your book’ with Author and Writing Coach Piper Terrett

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If you’ve ever dreamed of writing a book – whether it’s a gripping novel or a compelling non-fiction title – but aren’t sure how to get started, help is at hand.

Start Your Book is a new 2½-hour writing workshop led by experienced author, journalist and writing tutor Piper Terrett. This inspiring, in-person session is designed to help aspiring writers overcome the overwhelm and take those vital first steps toward getting their book underway.

Piper, a former Financial Times Group journalist and past lecturer in writing at London Metropolitan University, brings a wealth of industry knowledge and practical experience to the table. With an English degree from Cambridge and three published books under her belt – including a crime novel – she understands both the creative and structural aspects of writing a successful manuscript.

Held in the welcoming space at Nourish, Vale House in Hertford, this taster session is ideal for anyone who:

  • Wants to get started on their novel or non-fiction book
  • Needs help planning and organising their project
  • Could use a motivational boost and expert guidance

Attendees will also receive £10 off Piper’s full online course, Write Your Book, which is an in-depth 8-week programme launching this December. The full course covers everything from idea development and book planning to editing, publishing and even self-publishing options.

Whether you’re writing for personal fulfilment or hoping to publish, this workshop offers a supportive and informative starting point. It could be just the kick-start you need to finally get that book idea out of your head and onto the page!

DETAILS
🗓 Saturday 22nd November 2025
🕙 10:00am–12:30pm
📍 Nourish, Vale House, 43 Cowbridge, Hertford, SG14 1PN
💷 £30 per person

SPACES ARE LIMITED SO BOOK NOW!

To book or find out more:
📧 piperterrett@gmail.com
📞 07879 810795
🌐 dojustaboutanything.com

Remembrance Sunday at Great Amwell

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In glorious autumn sunshine, members of the Scouting family gathered at the Great Amwell War Memorial to honour those who gave their lives in service to our country.

The group included Squirrels, Beavers, Cubs, Scouts, Young Leaders and Leaders, all standing together in a moving Act of Remembrance. Wearing their uniforms with pride, the young people laid crosses, and wreaths were laid by the Scout Group as well as Mrs Paddon on behalf of Lewis Cocking the local MP and the Parish Council. Everyone observed the two-minute silence, reflecting on the sacrifices made by generations past.

The ceremony was a poignant reminder of the importance of remembering and learning from history. For many of the youngest members, this was their first experience of a formal remembrance event, helping them understand the values of respect and gratitude that Scouting promotes.

As the sun shone over the memorial, the sense of community and shared purpose was clear. The Scouts’ participation ensured that the legacy of those who served continues to be honoured by future generations.

‘It was wonderful to see so many young people paying their respects,’ said Gail Stretch, Group Lead Volunteer. ‘Remembrance Day is an important part of our Scouting calendar, and today showed how committed our members are to keeping this tradition alive.’

Gail Stretch
Group Lead Volunteer
Great Amwell Scout Group

Have Your Say: Recycling Centre Consultation Now Open

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Hertfordshire County Council has launched a public consultation to gather residents’ feedback on the future of the county’s 16 recycling centres and five reuse shops. The aim is to explore options that will help these services remain efficient and sustainable for the long term.

Why is this happening?

The council is facing growing challenges in running the service, including rising operational costs, increased visitor numbers, commercial misuse of the sites, and new regulatory requirements. There are also serious concerns about staff safety, with a recent survey revealing that nearly all front-line staff have experienced verbal or physical abuse – something the council is committed to addressing.

What’s being considered?

Maintaining the recycling service costs the council around £13 million each year. With wider financial pressures, particularly in areas like social care, the council is reviewing how the recycling centres can continue to operate effectively and efficiently.

While earlier proposals included reduced opening days at some sites and a countywide booking system, these have now been withdrawn. Instead, the council is inviting the public to share their views on alternative options being explored.

Your feedback will help shape decisions on how the service is run in the future, with outcomes expected in early 2026.

How to take part

📝 Complete the online survey here:
https://surveys.hertfordshire.gov.uk/s/recyclingcentreconsultation/

📄 Prefer a paper copy?
You can pick one up at your local recycling centre.

💻 Need help going online?
Visit any Hertfordshire library for free computer access and support with filling out the survey.

🗓 Consultation closes: 28 November 2025

Let your voice be heard and help shape the future of Hertfordshire’s recycling services.

A Warm Welcome awaits you this winter

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As the weather turns colder, we’re opening our doors and hearts to offer Warm Welcome Spaces across The 3 Churches Benefice. Whether you’re looking for company, a cuppa, or simply a warm and friendly place to spend some time, we’d love to see you.

Coffee Morning – Every Monday
📍 The Wilshere Hall, St Andrew’s Church, Cappell Lane, Stanstead Abbotts
🕘 9.00–11.00am

Come and share a cup of tea or coffee, enjoy a fun activity and connect with others in our free, welcoming space. It’s a relaxed, friendly morning where everyone is welcome!

Community Hub Drop-in – Every Wednesday
📍 St Mary’s Church, Hoddesdon Road, St Margarets
🕥 10.30–11.30am

Our Wednesday session is open to anyone who needs a chat, a bit of practical help, or just a safe space to sit and relax for a while.

These sessions are part of the national Warm Welcome Spaces initiative, supporting communities to come together and ensuring everyone has somewhere warm and welcoming to go this winter.

So if you’re nearby – come and join us! Have a cuppa, meet new friends and enjoy the warmth of community.

The 3 Churches Benefice

Book your spot on the next  Digital Skills Group session!

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Did you read about the FREE digital skills group organised by The Community Alliance – Broxbourne & East Herts? It meets at the Nigel Copping Community Building and the next date is just around the corner!

This free, volunteer-led group is perfect for anyone who wants to get to grips with using a computer, tablet or smartphone. Whether you’re new to technology or just want to build your confidence, their Digital Champions will help you learn how to:

  • Navigate your devices with ease
  • Shop online safely
  • Access virtual appointments
  • Stay connected with friends and family

Sessions take place monthlyonWednesdays from 2:30 to 4:00pmat theNigel Copping Community Building (SG12 8GA).

There are two dates remaining for 2025: 13th November and 10th December.

BOOK NOW!
📞 Call 0300 123 1034 to reserve your place.

Just bring your charged device and start your journey toward becoming more digitally confident!

Remembrance Sunday Services ~ Sunday 9th November

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As we approach Remembrance Sunday, The 3 Churches Benefice invites everyone in our community to come together in gratitude and reflection. On Sunday 9th November 2025, we will gather to honour the courage, sacrifice and service of all those who have given their lives in conflicts past and present.

Our services this year will be held across the Benefice as follows:

9.00am – Remembrance Sunday Eucharist Service
St John the Baptist Church, Great Amwell
Begin the day with a quiet and reflective Eucharist service, offering time for prayer and thanksgiving for all who have served.

10.30am – Service of Remembrance
Amwell Lane War Memorial, Great Amwell
Join us outdoors at the Amwell Lane War Memorial for our traditional Act of Remembrance. We will pause together for the two-minute silence and the laying of wreaths. Please dress warmly and bring umbrellas in case of rain.

10.30am – Service of Remembrance
St Andrew’s Church, Stanstead Abbotts
This service will begin inside St Andrew’s Church before moving outside to the war memorial for the Act of Remembrance. We invite everyone to come prepared for the weather as we gather together in reflection and unity.

Remembrance Sunday is a meaningful moment in the life of our community – a time to remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice and to pray for peace in our world today. We look forward to welcoming you as we stand together in remembrance and hope.

The 3 Churches Benefice

The Annual St Margaretsbury Fireworks Display 2025

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The countdown is on for one of the brightest nights in our local community: The Annual St Margaretsbury Fireworks Display!

This year’s spectacular event will take place on Sunday 2nd November at St Margaretsbury Recreation Ground, and it promises to be a brilliant evening for families, friends and neighbours alike.

What’s on
Gates open at 4.00 pm, kicking off a fun-filled afternoon with something for everyone:

  • Mini Fun Fair from 4.00 pm – perfect for little ones (and the young at heart!).
  • Licensed Clubhouse Bar open from 4.00 pm – enjoy a sociable drink before the show.
  • Bonfire lit at around 6.30 pm, bringing that warm, autumn glow.
  • Professional Fireworks Display from 6.45 pm, lighting up the night sky in a dazzling show of colour and sparkle.

And that’s not all! There’ll be hot food, a catering truck and hot mulled wine to keep everyone toasty while you watch the fireworks.

Family-friendly fun
The St Margaretsbury Fireworks Display is one of the highlights of our community year. It’s a wonderful opportunity to come together. Children under 3 go free and tickets are great value:

  • £20 Family (4 people)
  • £8 Adults
  • £5 Under 14s

You can pay by card or cash at the gate, but make sure to arrive early – on-site parking is limited and fills up fast.

Event details at a glance

📍 Venue: St Margaretsbury Recreation Ground, St Margarets, SG12 8EH
🕓 Gates open: 4.00 pm
🔥 Bonfire lit: 6.30 pm (approx.)
🎇 Fireworks start: 6.45 pm (approx.)
🏁 Ends around: 7.15 pm

Wrap up warm, bring your friends and make it a night to remember!

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