Now that the December issue is out, we wanted to share the 2026 copy deadline dates with you all.
March Issue = 5th January June Issue = 3rd April September Issue = 3rd July December Issue = 3rd October
The Three Villages is all about building community and we are keen to ensure that your local community magazine reflects the things that matter to you.
If you have an event to promote, a success to celebrate or have an idea for a competition or special feature, we would love to hear from you!
The Friends of St Andrews School presents Stanstead Abbotts Advent Window Trail. A brand new fundraiser for 2025!
Join us this Christmas as our community lights up with festive window displays – one magical reveal each evening.
Each window has been lovingly decorated by families, organisations and businesses.
Collect a letter from each window to reveal a special festive message!
Maps are now on sale – every £2 purchase goes directly to St Andrews School.
Printed maps are available at the school Christmas Fayre, or for a digital version contact Gemma (07791264279 via WhatsApp or email fostawindowtrail@yahoo.com).
So wrap up warm, grab a map and discover 24 magical windows!
As the winter season sets in, it’s essential to prioritise the wellbeing of our elderly loved ones, who are more vulnerable to health challenges during this time. Cold weather brings an increased risk of flu, pneumonia and depression, along with other serious concerns like heart attacks and strokes. Older people often have weaker immune systems, making them more susceptible to illnesses in winter, and pre-existing health conditions can worsen due to colder conditions.
There are many easy ways to ensure that our elderly loved ones stay warm, well and healthy during winter:
Keeping Homes Warm: Ensure the heating system is in good working order, seal any drafts and heat only necessary spaces to save energy.
Layer Up: When heading outdoors, dress in cosy layers to trap warmth close to the body.
Stay Vaccinated: Keep up with vaccinations, including annual flu shots.
Minimise Exposure: Try to avoid contact with anyone presenting flu-like symptoms.
Maintain a Healthy Diet: Incorporate warm, nutritious foods like soups and stews into your diet, staying hydrated with warm drinks.
Stay Active and Social: If able, engage in moderate activity such as short walks to generate body heat, promote circulation and maintain a good mood.
If additional support is needed, reach out to your local GP for medical care, vaccinations and guidance. Support from your community is always essential – family, friends, and community groups can be relied on for assistance and companionship. Respite care at a local care home is also an option for those requiring extra support; they can provide 24/7 inclusive care in a warm environment.
Remember that with the right precautions and help, everyone can enjoy the season while minimising health risks. B&M Care provide support and respite care to our local communities (see: https:// bmcare.co.uk/our-care/respite-care/) so please contact us if you need using our dedicated customer support team on 0333 234 1975 (available 9am–5pm (Monday–Friday) or via email to info@bmcare.co.uk for any questions and advice regarding the care that B&M Care can offer a loved one.
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
