Christmas Tree Festival 2–6pm on Saturday 6th & Sunday 7th December St Mary’s Church, Hoddesdon Road, St Margarets
The 3 Churches Benefice are holding a Christmas Tree Festival at St Mary’s Church, St Margarets. It is a wonderful opportunity for us all, as a community, to get into the spirit of Christmas!
Entry to the Festival will be FREE, but seasonal refreshments will be available to buy for those visiting. We will also have a tombola, children’s activities, a teddy tombola and craft stalls with some lovely homemade items. Any proceeds will go towards the work and upkeep of the church.
*NEW THIS YEAR* We also have a ‘Carols amidst the Christmas Trees’ at 5pm on Sunday 7thDecember. Don’t miss it!
The December Issue of The Three Villages Magazine is here and is now available to pick up FOR FREE across the villages.
We are thrilled to reveal our cover with the winning entries from our Schools Christmas Arts Competition! Read about the winners on page 3 of the magazine. I’m sure you’ll agree the baubles look amazing. Congratulations to our winners! Be sure to come along to the Christmas Tree Festival at St Mary’s Church, St Margarets (this weekend: 6th and 7th December, 2 to 6 pm) to see the winner baubles on our tree.
Also in this issue, we take a look at the important work of local charity, ALFS; we find out all about local business Heavenly Hair; we have the first in our new series, ‘Glimpses into our Past’; we get to meet local resident Julia Witting and lots more!
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 870009) and we will get one to you.
Looking ahead… We would love to hear from you if you have an interesting story or an upcoming event to promote. The approximate deadlines for 2026 are: 5th January (March Issue), 3rd April (June Issue), 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!
Thank you for your continued support, The Three Villages Team
Within the December issue, we take a look at the important work of local charity, ALFS; we find out all about local business Heavenly Hair; we have the first in our new series, ‘Glimpses into our Past’; we get to meet local resident Julia Witting and lots more!
The cover remains a secret because it will showcase the winners in our Schools Christmas Art Competition. We invited our local schools to design a Christmas bauble and had some amazing entries. We think the cover looks great, so be sure to grab a copy to find out who won!
The winners will not only appear on the cover of this issue, but they will also feature on our tree in the Christmas Tree Festival running over the weekend of 6th and 7th December. Why not come along and see it (along with the other trees) at St Mary’s Church, St Margarets, from 2pm to 6pm both days. There is also a special Carol Service at 5pm on the Sunday.
Remember that if you can’t easily get out, but would like a copy of the magazine, please do get in touch with us and we will get a copy to you. Email: threevillagesmagazine@gmail.com Text: 07488 914972 Call: 01920 870009
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.
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!
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
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
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.
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 Three Villages 