Good Morning!

It is Monday 9th December. Storm Darragh made waves throughout the weekend causing gusty winds that threatened properties and lives, but we survived it. Anyway, the Christmas lights are shining bright, and there’s no mistaking the festive season is in full swing. While many of us are gearing up for indulgent meals and holiday cheer, there’s one thing that often takes a backseat during this time—Fitness and Wellness.

In today’s editorial, I’ll share some of our recent discoveries that might inspire you to prioritise your health, even during the busiest time of the year. Plus, I’ll highlight a few exciting events you won’t want to miss. So, grab a warm drink, settle in, and enjoy a few minutes of reading—you’re going to love this! 🎄💪

If you’re new here, welcome to Fieldtown—your hub for editorial on matters that concern you, events, new eateries, business openings, and even a bit of town gossip. We’re thrilled to have you with us!

Don’t keep all the fun to yourself—refer us to a friend so they too can enjoy our entertaining editorials and updates. Have suggestions or questions? We’d love to hear from you!

Let’s dive into the season together! 🎄✨

Better Gyms: Building Stronger Communities in Enfield and Beyond

When it comes to health, fitness, and community connection, Better Gyms, operated by Greenwich Leisure Limited (GLL), are making waves across the UK. As a charitable social enterprise, Better reinvests its profits into maintaining and improving its facilities, ensuring communities have access to high-quality fitness resources. In Enfield, the story is no different.

We visited two Better Gym locations in Enfield—Southbury and Albany Park on Hertford Road—to see firsthand how they’re serving their communities. What we found was nothing short of inspiring: vibrant spaces where residents of all ages come together to pursue fitness, foster connections, and enjoy facilities that go beyond expectations.

Southbury Leisure Centre: A Modern Fitness Haven

At Southbury, the first thing that strikes you is the welcoming atmosphere. Recently refurbished, the gym boasts state-of-the-art equipment and a clean, modern layout. The staff are eager to help, and during our visit, they went out of their way to provide a guided tour of the facilities, showcasing the full breadth of what the centre offers.

Facilities and Features

• A spacious gym with cutting-edge equipment, designed to cater to fitness enthusiasts of all levels.

• A large swimming pool with an extended seating area, demonstrating Better’s commitment to accommodating community participation.

• Fitness class halls, where members can join a variety of classes ranging from yoga to high-intensity interval training (HIIT).

• A sauna and sports hall, creating an all-in-one hub for physical activity and relaxation.

During our visit, we noticed a group of young children, some under six, enthusiastically learning cricket under the guidance of dedicated coaches. The sight of these children enjoying sports in such a positive environment was a testament to how Better is nurturing the next generation.

A Seamless Experience

The Southbury staff were particularly proud to highlight their user-friendly Better UK app, which allows members to book fitness classes and track their progress. Thanks to the centre’s excellent management, we learned that classes are rarely canceled, ensuring members can rely on consistent programming.

Albany Park Leisure Centre: A Small but Mighty Hub

Though smaller in size, Albany Park Leisure Centre punches well above its weight when it comes to community impact. The gym offers a serene and welcoming environment, where the focus isn’t just on fitness but also on fostering relationships among community members.

A Growing Community

The team at Albany Park proudly shared that they’ve been seeing an increase in new members from the local community. Despite its smaller scale compared to other facilities, the centre has become a gathering place for residents who value its intimate and inclusive atmosphere.

Special Initiatives: Open Monday

One of Albany Park’s standout features is its Open Monday initiative, a special event where the centre transforms into a social hub for a few hours each week. During this time, members of the community can drop in for free, whether to meet staff, seek advice, or simply enjoy a warm and welcoming space.

This initiative has helped Albany Park foster a close-knit community where members treat the staff as an extension of their neighborhood rather than just employees at a gym. It’s a beautiful example of how Better is breaking down barriers and creating meaningful connections.

The Role of Better Gyms in the Community

Looking at these facilities as an outsider, it’s clear that Better is far more than a gym chain. Their centres serve as vital community spaces that bring people together, encourage healthy lifestyles, and support both physical and mental well-being.

Inclusivity and Accessibility

Better Gyms are designed to be accessible to everyone, offering affordable membership options and facilities that cater to all ages and fitness levels. From young children learning cricket to seniors participating in low-impact fitness classes, there’s truly something for everyone.

Gratitude for the Team

The credit for this success lies not just with the facilities but also with the dedicated staff and leadership at GLL. Regional managers and local teams have instilled values of community service and inclusivity, which are evident in the staff’s daily interactions.

The team members we met at both Southbury and Albany Park were enthusiastic, professional, and deeply committed to creating a positive environment for all visitors. Their dedication has turned these gyms into more than just workout spaces—they’re homes for connection and growth.

A Message to Enfield Residents

If you live in Enfield and are considering joining a gym, or if you’re looking to make a change, we highly recommend visiting a Better Gym near you. Both Southbury and Albany Park offer exceptional facilities, outstanding staff, and a welcoming community atmosphere that makes fitness enjoyable and accessible.

Take a moment to thank the staff for their hard work and dedication—they’re a vital part of what makes Better Gyms such an asset to our borough. Where will you find this art work?

Looking Ahead

Better Gyms are setting the standard for what community fitness centres should be. Their ability to combine top-notch facilities with a genuine focus on community impact makes them a shining example of what can be achieved when business meets social responsibility.

As we look to the future, we’re excited to see how Better continues to grow and innovate, bringing even more benefits to Enfield and beyond. For now, let’s celebrate the incredible role they’re playing in keeping our communities healthy, connected, and thriving.

So, whether you’re ready to hit the gym, join a fitness class, or simply find a warm and welcoming space, Better Gyms are ready for you. And as they say, there’s no better time to start than today! 🏋️‍♀️🌟

EVENTS

🎄 You’re Invited to a Christmas Special! 🎄

Christmas is here, and amidst the shopping and festive buzz, Jubilee Church London is bringing the true Christmas story to life in a spectacular way. Over 2,000 years ago, the birth of Jesus Christ sparked a story that continues to inspire and unite people globally, and this year, Jubilee Church London has something truly special planned.

📅 Date: Sunday, 15th December
📍 Location: Jubilee Church London, Enfield Cineworld
💻 Can’t make it in person? Tune in online via YouTube!

Jubilee Church London, with branches in Harlow, Enfield, Ilford, and Wood Green, invites everyone—families, friends, and individuals—to join their Christmas Special Service. Experience powerful performances and uplifting messages that retell the story of Jesus’ birth, reminding us of the hope and joy of the season.

This is a family-friendly event you won’t want to miss. We’ve rated it 5 stars and can’t recommend it enough. Mark your calendars, bring your loved ones, and join in this magical celebration of Christmas! 🎉

Christmas Star Painting Workshop – Final Session!

📅 Date: Thursday, 12th December - 7:00 - 9:30PM
🕒 Time: Evening session
📍 Location: Ferny Hill Farm, Hadley Wood, Barnet, EN4 0PZ

🎨 Get into the Holiday Spirit!

Don’t miss the last session of our Christmas Star Painting Evening Workshop—a festive, creative experience perfect for celebrating the season!

✨ What to Expect:

• Hand-paint a beautiful wooden star to add a personal touch to your Christmas decor.

• Enjoy a complimentary glass of prosecco, soft drinks, and delicious nibbles while you work on your masterpiece.

• A fun and relaxing environment, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced artist.

💸 Cost: £47 (includes all materials, refreshments, and your star to take home).

🎄 Book your spot now and make this holiday season extra special with a unique, handmade decoration. Spaces are limited, so don’t wait—join us for a creative and joyful evening!

Christmas Tales at Chickenshed

🕤 30th November – 30th December 2024
📍 Chickenshed, Southgate, N14 4PE

Step into a world of festive magic and fun! 🎄✨ This holiday season, Chickenshed transforms into a wonderland where classic fairy tales come alive with your favorite characters, music, and snowy surprises.

• Watch Lion Down experience a magical jungle snowfall.

• Follow Blurgh on a hilarious journey to save Christmas after (oops!) eating the tree.

• Enjoy festive fun with the Three Pigs, Three Bears, and Billy Goats Gruff as they share their snow-filled adventures.

Don’t miss this heartwarming celebration filled with laughter, music, and the true spirit of Christmas. Perfect for the whole family! 🎅🎶

Winter Wonderland at The Beehive

🕛 30th November – 23rd December 2024
📍 The Beehive, Little Bury Street, London, N9

🎅 Santa, Reindeer, and Festive Fun!
Winter Wonderland is back for its 5th year, and it’s bigger and better than ever! Here’s what you can expect:

• Meet Santa and his real reindeer! Walk through a magical winter wonderland, sit with Santa, and receive a special gift.

• Visit the Beehive family of animals and enjoy the festive vibes.

💡 Important Info:

• Babies in arms: Welcome with a paying child and adult (no gift included).

• Buggies: Park them in the designated area; they can’t go through the Wonderland.

• Dining: Want to dine after your visit? Book a table in advance and enjoy our festive menu.

• Pre-booking is highly recommended to secure your spot. Limited on-the-day tickets may be available at a higher rate.

• All tickets are non-refundable and changes cannot be made after booking.

Don’t miss the magic! Pre-book now to make your holiday season unforgettable. 🎄✨

The Nightingale Christmas Raffle

🕛 8th November – 16th December 2024
📍 The Nightingale Cancer Support Centre, 187a Baker Street, London, EN1 3JT

🎄 Win Big This Christmas!
The Nightingale Christmas Raffle is back, and for just £1 a ticket, you could win one of 10 amazing prizes—including our legendary Ultimate Christmas Hamper!

🌟 Top Prize: Ultimate Christmas Hamper
Packed with everything you need for a festive feast:

• Meat, vegetables, prosecco, wine, port, gin, cheese, crackers, chocolates, crisps, pickled onions, and so much more!

• Last year’s hamper was so massive it needed a dolly to be delivered!

The other 9 incredible prizes will be revealed soon, but why wait? Secure your chance to win today.

📅 Important Date:
Winners will be contacted on Monday, 18th December 2024.

Crossover ‘25: A Night of Worship, Praise, and Celebration

This New Year’s Eve, Jubilee Church London is taking their iconic Crossover Service to new heights. Known for packing out Cineworld Enfield with thousands of worshippers, the church is boldly moving their end-of-year celebration to the Copper Box Arena in Stratford, inviting the entire city of London and neighbouring towns to join in giving thanks to God for His goodness and grace.

What to Expect

• A Party Atmosphere Like No Other: Celebrate the New Year with singing, dancing, and worship centered on the Lord Jesus Christ.

• Powerful Worship: Be moved by passionate worship sessions and heartfelt preaching, as the church family gives thanks for the past year and commits the new one to God’s guidance and provision.

• A Bold Declaration: With their theme "London is the Lord’s," Jubilee Church invites everyone, regardless of background, to come together in unity to celebrate God’s goodness.

This year’s Crossover ‘25 promises to be the biggest yet—a night filled with joy, worship, and heartfelt gratitude for all that God has done.

This is an event you don’t want to miss! Join Jubilee Church London as they declare the start of a new year in faith and celebration.

Come celebrate with Jubilee Church London —because London is the Lord’s! 🎉.

📍 Copper Box Arena, Stratford, London, E20 3HB
🕰️ Doors Open: 8:30 PM, New Year’s Eve

OTHER UPCOMING EVENTS

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That’s all!

That’s all I have for you today! What event’s did you want to see on the list? If you want your events included, send us an email and we will review and let you know if it can be published here. We are open to suggestions and ready to answer your questions.

Have a great week.

With Love from Enfield 💌

Emeka Ogbonnaya