Category Archives: News

SEND Strategy 2026–2029 Consultation

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The Hertfordshire SEND Local Area Partnership has developed a new SEND Strategy for 2026–2029, which sets out their shared ambitions to improve outcomes for children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). This strategy has been shaped by the voices of children, young people, families, and professionals across education, health, and social care.

Local people are being invited to have their say on the ambitious new draft strategy for SEND that has greater collaboration at its core by completing a short online survey.

The consultation seeks to find out:

  • Do the ambitions reflect what matters most to children and young people with SEND and their families?
  • Are there any parts which are missing, unclear or need strengthening?
  • What do you think is the single most important priority for us to focus on?

DOWNLOAD THE DRAFT STRATEGY HERE:

send-strategy-2026-2029-pdf-3.64mbDownload

RESPOND TO THE SURVEY HERE: https://surveys.hertfordshire.gov.uk/s/SENDSC/

Consultation start date: Friday 14 November 2025
Consultation closing date: Friday 6 November 2026

Be sure to have your say!

The Neighbourhood Plan: FINAL STAGE

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East Herts Council have approved our plan and we now move to the final stage (Referendum).

The Polling Station will be set up in January 2026 ready for your vote, so keep an eye out for your voting card.

In the meantime, and before you vote, please visit the website and read the final plan HERE to find out the advantages of saying yes. The final plan is supported by all three Parish Councils and East Herts District Council.

View the website here: https://www.stansteadabbottsneighbourhoodplan.uk/ and read about the importance of a Neighbourhood Plan HERE.

Julia Davies

The Three Villages: Advertise with us in 2026!

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As you know, here at The Three Villages one of our primary goals is to champion and support local businesses, especially for those that choose to advertise with us!

In 2025, we implemented some significant changes, which have proved a success:
* Our print magazine became FREE!
* We increased our print run by 100% to boost our distribution
* We offered a text/call service for delivering magazines to those that might not be able to get out and collect a copy
* We launched our Instagram and got to over 125 followers in the first two months, with numbers on the increase, and average monthly views of over 700.

With each issue we are seeing increased engagement through our social media platforms (Facebook, News & Events Blog, Instagram), and we are confident that things will continue to rise.

So why not join us?
* BE RECOGNISED AS A TRUSTED LOCAL TRADER *
* SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY MAGAZINE *
* REACH CUSTOMERS ACROSS THE LOCAL AREA *

The fee of just £120 includes a slot within every 2026 issue of the print magazine AND inclusion in our advertisements directory and scrolling adverts panel on the website.

PLUS
* We offer the chance to win a FREE full-colour, full-page prime advertising spot within every print issue!  
* We also feature an Advertiser of the Month on our News & Events blog, shared to our Facebook and Instagram.

For more information, email threevillagesmagazine@gmail.com.

The deadline is 1st January, so grab your spots now!

The Three Villages Magazine: Dates for 2026

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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 Three Villages Team

Stanstead Abbotts Advent Window Trail

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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!

Keeping Well in the Winter Months

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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.

http://www.bmcare.co.uk

The Three Villages Magazine: December 2025 Issue is here!

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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

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

‘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

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