Dartford Living April 18' by Dartford Living

FREE April 2018 - Issue 142

INSIDE THE MAGAZINE

Mick Jagger by Stephen Oliver (based on a photo by Patrik Andersson)

Nautical Dartford p5 There’s a kind of hush... p 29 What’s on Locally Guide p48-56

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ired be inspwith Slimming World MONDAYS VCD Sports Club, Old Road Crayford, DA1 4DN 9:30am, 11:30am, 5:30pm and 7:30pm Sue 07507 599691

WEDNESDAYS VCD Sports Club, Old Road Crayford, DA1 4DN 10:00am, 5:30pm and 7:30pm Liz 07900 213548

British Legion Hall Devon Road, South Darenth, DA4 9AA 9:30am, 5:30pm and 7:30pm June 07957 902767

Glentworth Ex Service Club 154 Lowfield Street, Dartford, Kent, DA1 1JB 9:30am Gillian 07957 135737

Fleetdown Community Centre Swaledale Road, Dartford, Kent, DA2 6JZ 3:30pm, 5:30pm and 7:30pm Paula 07891 424401

The Howard Venue (formerly South East Dance Studios) 39 Egerton Avenue, Hextable, BR8 7LG 5:30pm and 7:30pm Caroline 07776 181413

Church Centre, 112 Swanscombe Street, Swanscombe, Kent DA10 0JZ 7:30pm Lisa 07986 030199

Temple Hill Community Centre Temple Hill Square, Dartford, DA1 5HY 3.30pm, 5:30pm, 7:30pm Jo 07800 797030

Dartford Social Club, Lowfield Street, DA1 1HP Monday 7.30pm Kate 07590995948

Albany Hotel 13 Steynton Avenue Bexley, DA 3HN 5.30pm and 7.30pm Del 07975 541082

TUESDAYS Greenhithe & Swanscombe British Legion Club London Road, Greenhithe, DA9 9EJ 10:00 am Paula 07891 424401 Glentworth Ex Service Club 154 Lowfield Street, Dartford, Kent, DA1 1JB 5:30pm and 7:30pm Gillian 07957 135737

THURSDAYS The Howard Venue (formerly South East Dance Studios) 39 Egerton Avenue, Hextable, BR8 7LG 9:30am Caroline 07776 181413

Temple Hill Community Centre Temple Hill Square, Dartford, DA1 5HY 09:30am Jo 07800 797030 St Anselmâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Parish Centre 89 West Hill, Dartford, Kent, DA1 2HJ 5:00pm and 7:00pm Gillian 07957 135737 Greenhithe & Swanscombe British Legion Club London Road, Greenhithe, DA9 9EJ 5:30pm and 7:30pm Paula 07891 424401 Baldwyns Baptist Church Dartford Road, Bexley DA5 2AY 5.30pm and 7.30pm Del 07975 541082 FRIDAYS Lesley Close Bourne Road , Bexley DA5 1LX 9am Del 07975 541082 SATURDAYS Amar Hall East Hill, Dartford, Kent, DA1 1RX 9:00am Sarah 07739 027161 Christ Church Centre Kingswood Avenue, Swanley, BR8 8AN 8:00am and 10:00am Kelli 07931 085668

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WELCOME TO THE LATEST ISSUE OF

DARTFORD LIVING

BY THE COMMUNITY, FOR THE COMMUNITY Dear Readers, Welcome to the April magazine. As usual it’s jam packed with lots of local information and local businesses. Please support as many as you can - use them or lose them! In case you weren’t aware, we run Dartford Living alongside volunteer members of the local community FOR the local community. It’s the only independently run magazine serving the local area with information, fun, good news and positive local stories! Please get in touch if you would like to write an article for the magazine. If writing is not for you then perhaps you could volunteer to deliver 100 or so magazines to your local roads - you will guarantee your copy of the magazine and get a little exercise as well! If you don’t always receive a copy directly through your door, you can pick up a copy from various drop off points including Dartford FC, local libraries, Fairfield Leisure Centre, The Priory Shopping Centre, Stephen Oliver Art Gallery, health centres and local Barclays branches. Additionally, if you email editor@dartfordliving.com we will add you to our e-newsletter and you will join 6,000 others who receive a copy of the magazine by email once a month. Until next time, Vijay - Editor, Dartford Living (and the rest of the fantastic Dartford Living volunteer team)

Check out our website for even more local news and articles

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YOUR NEXT DEADLINE IS 12TH APRIL

We offer amazing value advertising with adverts starting from just £30 per month. We don’t just take your money and add you to the magazine. We want to work with you to promote your businesses as much as we can using our website and social media channels for maximum exposure. We can also provide advertising options solely online on your website and/ or social media channels. We feel we have every base covered.

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CONTENTS

5........................Nautical Dartford 8-9....................Sleeping Rough for Sleep Easy Week 11......................Bip Bop Blog 13......................Rock painting 14......................Life Under the Stairs 18-19................Travel Spotlight 27......................Money Advice 28......................Local Charities win awards 29......................There’s a kind of hush... 32......................Sports News 34......................Kevin’s string of Darting Successes 36......................Dartford Lawn Tennis Club History 37......................Darts News 38......................Local Sports groups 41......................Fitness 43......................Success for local theatre group 44......................Theatre Roundup 46......................Car News 47......................Competition 48-56................Where to go locally 57......................Useful Numbers 58......................Advertising Index

Dartford Living does not certify, endorse or verify the contents of any communication within the magazine/our online presence or make warranty of any kind, express or implied, with regard to the information contained therein. Dartford Living and its owners cannot be held responsible for any errors, omissions or claims made by advertisers or endorse companies, products or services that appear in any Dartford Living publication or media outlet. Dartford Living is not responsible for the content of external internet sites. www.dartfordlivinglive.co.uk - www.dartfordliving.com - www.dartfordbusinessdirectory.co.uk 3

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NEWS

We love to hear from groups, organisations and individuals about what’s happening locally. Include a photo if you can. Email your stories to editor@dartfordliving.com

and hopefully a few other vessels as well. The arrival of the Decima was really something special as it proved the low Bob Dunn Way bridge had not killed the Creek and that Dartford was truly open for boats. Below is a selection of some of the vessels that have visited the creeks since restoration began.

NAUTICAL DARTFORD

BY CLLR CONRAD BROADLEY TRUSTEE DIRECTOR, CHAIRMAN DARTFORD AND CRAYFORD CREEK RESTORATION TRUST

Dartford and Crayford Creeks were once a hive of industry bustling with sailing barges, tugs, lighters, tenders and all sorts serving the many industries that had grown along the banks, time and ‘progress’ took it’s toll though and in the 1980’s the last of the boat dependant industries had all but closed down this then left the once vibrant waterways of Dartford and Crayford Creeks destined to a future of mudbanks, shopping trollies, bicycles and old tyres. This all changed a few years ago with the formation of the Facebook Group Friends of Dartford and Crayford Creek and the founding of Dartford and Crayford Restoration Trust. Volunteers set about changing the tide of decay, it started first with litter picking the footpaths and riverbanks, clearing the public slipway to make it usable albeit a bit muddy, piles of shopping trollies, tyres, bicycles and debris from the river bed were cleared. Then making the wharves accessible for boats, cutting back overhanging branches, some fantastic work has been carried out clearing the historic Dartford Lock wharves in particular. The next challenge then was to ‘Bring the Boats Back’, we have over the past three years seen narrow boats, canoes, kayaks, row boats, dinghies, cruisers, yachts, a lifeboat all making use of the creek pathing the way for more vessels and more importantly showing it was safe to do so and a viable proposition for boaters. Our latest visitor is a very sizable and very historic Victorian Sailing Barge, built in 1899 Thames SB Decima is stopping over for a few months and will be the flagship for a Nautical Festival in May (details on Facebook), the Decima will be joined by a small flotilla of Narrow Boats

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Apex Law are excited to announce the opening of their new offices in Dartford. Our Dartford office is in a very convenient position with free visitor parking and close to the station. It is run by Pam Downes a well known local Lawyer with an experienced team. Pam deals with all aspects of Residential Conveyancing plus Private Client issues such as Lasting Powers of Attorneyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, Court of Protection Applications, Wills, Probate, Compromise Agreements and she is a specialist in Equity Release matters. Apex Law has case handlers located throughout the South of England and further afield who are all highly experienced in their fields of law including commercial property, Wills, Family Law, Residential Conveyancing and Private Client. In this highly technological world, expensive office premises can only drive up costs and at Apex Law LLP we are passionate about offering the highest level of service but at a price you can afford, because many of our Lawyers are self-employed they are frequently able to offer more flexible hours to suit you. We have Lawyers fluent in French, Chinese and Malay. We also have strategic alliances with Spanish Lawyers. At our offices we offer a friendly comfortable environment in which you can relax whilst dealing with your legal issues. We provide a cost effective local, national and international service in most areas of law and if we have no specialist in regard to any matters in which you require advice, we have arrangements with other firms of solicitors to whom we can refer you with confidence. Our offices are located at: 3 The Pantiles

Unit 32

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ME8 7HS

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Let GPS navigate the way to your new home www.gpslettings.co.uk

Dia Wipes are an essential part of your blood testing routine. Suitable for anyone who has Type 1 Diabetes, or those with Type 2 Diabetes who need to test their blood. Keep Dia-wipes handy so your blood glucose testing does not slow you down: · School · Office · Car · Beach · Sports · Many more! Each finger wipe measures 45mm x 70mm. Does not contain alcohol, fragrance or any product or chemical that will interfere with your blood glucose result. 25 wipes in each resealable pack. RRP £1.49 per pack

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SLEEPING ROUGH FOR YMCA SLEEP EASY WEEK by Sarah Colenutt

FUNDRAISERS SLEEP ROUGH AS PART OF NATIONAL YMCA SLEEP EASY WEEK Local people helped to raise around £3k for YMCA Thames Gateway at a local fundraising event last week that saw them sleep out for the night in Dartford’s Central Park on one of the coldest nights of the year so far. More than 20 people took part in the event last Friday in a bid to raise money and awareness of the work of the local youth charity. Participants paid an entry fee of £10 and were sleeping on DIY cardboard beds. Participants included the leader of Dartford Council, Councillor Jeremy Kite MBE and Lead Member, Councillor Avtar Sandhu MBE. It was all part of a national YMCA Sleep Easy Week that saw YMCAs across the country come together over seven days to promote their work with young people. The money raised will be used to support YMCA Thames Gateway’s services for children and young people. The evening was launched by the Mayor of Dartford, Councillor Rosanna Currans, who also judged the Box Factor competition where participants competed for the most creative cardboard box.

Aleesha and her son George who is 14, both took part in the event. Aleesha said: “I only slept out for one night and with food in my belly and access to WC facilities. How people live like this day after day is beyond belief. “During the night my sleeping bag zip broke. It was freezing; the wind, rain and sleet was relentless. The floor was damp and we couldn’t get in a good position to sleep. “We were never going give up though; I signed up and was determined to see it through. I finally slept from around 4 till 6 am. Not an experience I want to do on a daily basis but I am glad we did; we met some amazing people and made a difference to the YMCA and homeless people.” Aleesha and her son initially asked 75 friends and family to sponsor a pound each. The response was overwhelming and on the same day they raised £400. In total the pair have raised a staggering £1290 so far. YMCA will be hosting its next free Easter activity session for children aged 0 - 7 years old on 29 March. To find out more about the charity and how you can get involved visit: www.ymcatg.org.

Tech Medical Services offers first aid training and event cover services. We only provide experienced, NHS trained ambulance staff in fully equipped marked vehicles.

Dave Ball, YMCA Thames Gateway’s Chief Executive, said: “We’re thrilled about the success and I’d like to thank everyone who took part and spent the night out with us. “Thanks to the support of the local community we can now help even more young people than before and support them to realise their full potential. One night out can make a lifetime of difference.”

We also offer short course CPR sessions to local schools, clubs and community groups were approved by kent education services and members of the association of first aiders. Our website is www.techmedicalservices.co.uk

and we can be found on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram as @TheTechMedical

YMCA Thames Gateway has operated in the area for over 130 years. Services include supported housing, nurseries and pre-schools, a café and meeting rooms for hire as well as charity shops across the borough. 8

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Are you not enough? Many of us spend our life time seeking for more and better. ‘If I only get that job, this relationship, that number in my bank account, this recognition…, I will be happy.’ ‘When I retire, then I will relax and enjoy my life.’ ‘If only my health was better…’ ‘If I was slimmer, stronger, more beautiful / handsome…, my life would be way better.’ These are but a few examples of common thinking. Our thoughts around lack, insufficiency, incompleteness lead to negativity, emotional turmoil, ill health and a struggle to enjoy life. At some point, we may realise that will power is limited and that we are constraining, destructing, or sabotaging ourselves. And it’s usually at that point, when we start looking for ways to change. Rapid Transformation Therapy (RTT) provides a way to change by finding and rooting out the cause of the issue so that we can override the limitations in our mind. We can find a totally different approach to ourselves, life and the world around. RTT is a brief therapy using a particular hypnotherapy model. It provides immediate and lasting results, so you never want to go back. It also works well as part of psychotherapy.

Hypnotherapy and psychotherapy treatment for Addictions, Anger, Anxiety, Compulsions Confidence, Depression, Eating issues Loss effects, Sleep issues, Stress and pains Register at ifieldtherapy@gmail.com, on line www. ifieldtherapy.com or 078 1464 2212 Practice locations Crown House, Home Gardens, Dartford DA1 1DZ 184 Westcombe Hill, London SE3 7DH 45 Central Street, London EC1V 8AB

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BIP BOP BLOG by Charlotte Wise

Bouncing Our Way Through Easter! Hi Dartford Living Readers! Hope you all had a fantastic Easter! My website is finally live! Yippee! And after about a month of not sleeping, I’m so happy and proud that it’s now here! Last month, I blogged about visiting Eagle Heights and in my quest to find different and interesting things to do with my son, we have discovered Gravity in Bluewater.

Mums, I’m sure you can relate the pelvic floor can only take so much bouncing, but it was such a good work out! Not only did my little man have a good time, I felt like I’d burned a few pounds in the process - it was a win win! And the price tag? Well, if you go during their parent and toddler hour (visit their website www.gravity-uk.com for details of this) it will only cost £5 for 1 parent and 1 child. They also offer birthday parties for all ages and even exercise classes too.

Gravity is the new trampoline park in Bluewater that has

recently opened and has had mixed reviews. I’ll admit I did hesitate to take my 2 year old bouncing on the trampolines after we watched the safety video warning that failing to bounce properly could get us killed?! That said, it was brilliant! We loved it! Aside from a lot of bouncing on multiple trampolines, there is a separate soft play, slide, basketball, dodgeball, climbing and at certain times of the day the lights go out, the music gets louder and the smoke machine goes on - I honestly felt like I was more of a kid than my toddler. If only they had something like this when I was younger!

Just make sure you pay attention to that safety video! Happy bouncing! Charlotte x

Check out my new website! www.BipBopShop.com Follow me Facebook/Instagram @bbshopity Twitter @BipBopMum

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ROCK PAINTING IN DARTFORD by Maria Kingsford

The latest craze sweeping the UK? Rock painting. People all over the UK are painting rocks and hiding them in places for people to find, has now made it to Dartford. The Facebook group Dartford Painted Rocks was recently started following on from Love on the rocks UK, a Facebook group of over 58,000 people and growing every day. The Dartford rock painting group had 100 members in the first 5 days of starting. Painting rocks is great for everyone, and parents with children are loving making their own, hiding them, finding others and then posting what they have hidden or found. Stephen Oliver of Stephen Oliver: Studio and Gallery located in the Orchard Shopping Centre has a table available for people to leave or swap their own painted rocks as well. If you or anyone is interested please come and join us in the group and take part in and around the local area.

Rock Exchange at the Stephen Oliver: Studio and Gallery

Painted rocks that get hidden and found by people in the local community

Mindfulness for Beginners Dartford open mindfulness course starts 19th April – in association with ‘Mindfulness at Work’. A beginners’ practical course for all who want to learn this proven technique. With Spring on the way, this could be a good time to start making the most of 2018. 7:30pm-8:30pm every Thursday for 5 weeks Church Hall, Holy Trinity, Dartford DA1 1DE Fee: £70 for the 5-session course including notes, audio downloads and ‘daily prompt’ e-mails. [£20 for 16-18yr olds] See www.soshall.net for full details and more information about what Mindfulness is, how it benefits you, what’s involved in the course, and background on the trainer. Or contact Nick Buckley email: nick@soshall.net Call/Text: 07958 516967 www.dartfordlivinglive.co.uk - www.dartfordliving.com - www.dartfordbusinessdirectory.co.uk

LIFE UNDER THE STAIRS by Local Resident, Jane Stevenson

ITV OR NOT TV – THAT IS THE QUESTION... Due to the somewhat inclement weather recently, The Towers suffered a catastrophic injury. The chimney stack crumbled, bringing down the TV aerial with it. Apart from the aerial being precariously balanced on the roof and swaying in the wind, we also lost some bricks and a couple of roof tiles. The power line frayed slightly but stayed put, thank goodness. Small fry in the scheme of things, especially when you consider what others around the country had to put up with. Almost two weeks after the event we have just had the power line replaced by the hardworking folk from UK Power and now have to wait for the builder to repair the chimney, and hopefully put the aerial back. We have been without TV for all this time, and I’m still waiting to actually miss it. Whereas it was on most days, I’ve reached the conclusion I watched very little. My secret pleasures are quite limited – I did like Hawaii 5 O just for the sun and glorious beach scenes, and was a bit miffed at missing the second part of Strike. However, I’m not a fan of soaps, or reality shows, and to be honest tend watch repeats most of the time or the gloriously bad films on the Horror channel. I am addicted to the news, but the radio amply compensates for any lack of visual news. I don’t have Sky or Netflix, nor do I watch on a phone or laptop – there simply isn’t that much that I consider unmissable. Without the TV to distract, I found other things to do in the evenings; I began reading more again, delving into the many books I’ve bought and not read. My whole routine changed in that I was more active, took the dog further afield for her walks, and visited some of the landmarks I always talked about seeing but never did. With the repairs due this week, and the reinstatement of the TV, I wonder if I will lapse into my old ways, staring rather vacantly at some pot boiler about robots/killer sharks/earth blowing itself up or whatever. With the brighter evenings, and hopefully warmer weather on the way I don’t think the TV will ever assume its previous importance in our house. Could I give up watching TV altogether? I’m not sure, although the England/Scotland Rugby nearly made the decision for me. We’ll see.

WHAT’S IT WORTH? I was having a lie in the other morning when there was an article on the radio about a painting selling for the equivalent of £355 million pounds. I thought I’d misheard. I cannot come to grips with anyone paying that amount of money for an oil painting. No matter who painted it, Da Vinci in this case, no piece of artwork is worth such a high price. Who buys them? Are they squirreled away in private collections never to be seen again? What is the point of it all. In the same way the millions spent on football transfers is an anathema to me. It is a game – that’s all. It’s not ‘beautiful’ as described by Pele, nor does it benefit the general public. It is simply big business, where a few make a lot of money out of sportsmen who generally do not have a long shelf life in the game, and who aren’t always the best advertisement for it either. With the recent news showing equal pay for performers to be a myth, I still have a hard time accepting that the highest paid female celebrity at the BBC still rakes in between £450K and £500K a year for presenting a weekly show. Mind you, given that Chris Evans earns around £2.5 million I can see why there is a debate on this topic. The problem is that I see these amounts, be it paintings, footballers or TV personalities in other terms; I can’t understand why salaries or transfer fees aren’t capped, with the savings being ploughed back for example, into providing bursaries for the young to study without the burden of fees, or enabling grass roots sports to get the funding they so desperately need. As for the price of that painting – Darent Valley Hospital cost almost two thirds less, when it was built in 2000. Somewhere along the way, we’ve lost the plot a bit. SNOWMAGEDDON It snowed. Here in the south east life almost stopped. Schools closed, the railways ground to a halt and panic buying could have become the Olympic sport we excelled in. Everyone else in the country got their big coats out at got on with it. Classroom assistant friends in Lincolnshire and Cumbria walked to work . Friends in Bristol and Shropshire, carried on with minor problems. Seems that if we live south of the Thames, we’re danger of joining Generation Snowflake. Have a good month all.

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TRAVEL SPOTLIGHT LONG HAUL FAMILY HOLIDAYS by Tim Harden

promenade of beaches, restaurants, play areas and cycle paths. It’s a great area to stroll in the evening, enjoying the sub-tropical climate with an ice cream. Saadiyat Breach is a 9km pristine stretch of white sand with a fabulous public beach and some private sections accessed from the upmarket and stylish hotels.

TRAVEL SPOTLIGHT - LONG HAUL FAMILY HOLIDAYS Imagine a city on the coast, with beautiful blue skies, powder-white beaches and glittering skyscapers, a city full of culture and luxury hotels.

You might think we’re in Dubai, but no, we’re taking a look at Abu Dhabi. Abu Dhabi serves as the capital of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and is one of seven such emirates that complete the federation. The name literally translates as ‘father of the gazelle’, a reference to the number of gazelles in the area when the city was founded. With direct flights three times per day with Etihad - one of the world’s leading airlines, Abu Dhabi is easily reached from London. However, it is also a stopover for cruises from the likes of MSC Cruises and Celebrity Cruises. With a journey time of around 7 hours, and year-round sun, it makes for a great alternative to the Caribbean or North Africa.

Emirates Palace was featured in Sex and the City 2. The lavish hotel stretches over a kilometre in width and is full of luxurious facilities including 11 restaurants, two pools, a lavish spa and a private marina. If you pop in for afternoon tea, make sure you try the Palace Cappuccino, it’s sprinkled with real 24-carat gold flakes. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is a stunning place to visit and came second on TripAdvisor;s list of the world’s top 25 landmarks. A must on any trip to Abu Dhabi. Observation Deck at 300 gives you the best view of the city, a ski-high café on the 74th floor f the Jumeirah at Etihad Towers hotel. Shopping is as exciting in Abu Dhabi as in Dubai, with highend malls like The Galleria on Al Maryah Island, and the traditional markets of Al Mina, the atmospheric port area. Louvre Abu Dhabi opened at the end of last year and cost $1billion to build. The structure itself is worth a visit, but the museum of world cultural history also houses around 300 works of art on loan from the Louvre in Paris. Yas Island provides fun for all the family, with theme parks like Ferrari World Abu Dhabi and Yas Waterworld, along with the Formula One racetrack – Yas Marina Circuit. You can even drive around the track in an Aston Martin GT4 yourself. Warner Bros World Abu Dhabi is due to open this summer, offering another theme park option for visitors. With six immersive worlds, such as Metropolis and Gotham, inspired by Warner Bros characters it is set to attract an additional 30million visitors per year.

The Corniche is the heart of the city and is an 8km 18

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Arabian Sands – no trip to the UAE would be complete without a visit to the desert. A place of timeless beauty, it recently featured as the backdrop in Star Wars: The Force Awakens as the desert planet Jakku. Day trips can include 4x4 safari, camel trekking, sand surfing, or just dinner underneath the stars. There is even a 1,400 hectare Arabian Wildlife Park on Sir Bani Yas Island.

What to book: Cruise – MSC Cruises have a ship based out of Abu Dhabi during the winter and an 11 night cruise around the Arabian Gulf, beginning with 3 nights in a 4* hotel in Abu Dhabi, starts at £1,349 for an inside cabin including return airfare. Formula 1 – situated over the Formula 1 track is the 5* Yas Viceroy Abu Dhabi hotel. Gold Medal have a race package for this November that includes your flights and

hotel, but also your tickets to see the race take place. An amazing way to experience the Formula 1 weekend. Prices start at £3,399pp. Short break – A 4-night trip to Abu Dhabi in October starts from £529pp with Travel2 and includes flights, 4* hotel on a B&B basis and city tour. Tim Harden is the Manager of Harden Holidays, Dartford’s local travel agent, now open in the town centre.

Call - 0800 023 8974 E-mail - tim@hardenholidays.co.uk Website: www.hardenholidays.co.uk Visit us at: Unit 1B Henley House, Home Gardens, Dartford, DA1 1AS

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Wills LPAs Probate Trusts Home visits available for Will Instructions Fully insured - 2 million pounds PI Insurance Reasonable fees Member of IPW and regulated by Trading Standards Institute

Excel Security Systems your local security systems installation specialists. We can provide you with tailor made security systems for your home or business requirements.. SSAIB-certificated (Insurance Approved) Intruder Alarms CCTV Door Entry Access Control Service and Repairs Takeovers and Upgrades All our systems are designed to suit your needs and your budget.

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STEVE COOK DOUBLE GLAZING SERVICING, REPAIRS AND INSTALLATION

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DARTFORD LIVING MEETS SALLY BROWN FROM ASHES ARTWORK By Kelly Goldsworthy but I got lucky and I was really pleased with the finished article. When I gave it to my sister she was over the moon and full of emotion. I then realised that ashes of our loved ones aren’t meant to be kept in a box. But having a piece of art, containing my mums ashes, in my home inspired me and connected me to my mum. So within a matter of weeks Ashes Art work was up and running. The art is created using collage (lots of small pieces of paper torn up), and sticking the torn paper onto canvas; adding the ashes with acrylic paint. I then layer it with art resin which gives it a lovely glossy feel as well as protecting the ashes and making it more robust. The idea is that I meet with the family and we agree a design. I have lots of ideas but it is more personal and reflects the individual that it represents if the family are involved. It could be a name, a favourite saying, shapes or symbols, hobbies or teams, views and favourite places, colours or emotion. I know it is important for people to be able to trust you with their loved ones ashes and it’s paramount to me that I have real respect and empathy with people’s loss. Having experienced this so recently myself I feel I can genuinely offer that. When my mum died unexpectedly just over a year ago our family was left devastated. During the first year of grieving I decided to try out some art therapy. I really enjoyed it especially as I had attended Art College when I left school. I managed to produce 10 pieces of collage relating to emotions. From there it struck me how lovely it would be to incorporate some of my mum’s ashes into a piece of art. I didn’t act on the idea immediately but as we approached the year anniversary of my mum’s death I decided to create a piece of art with her ashes as a gift to my younger sister who was getting married in late February.

What you end up with is a piece of collage artwork, which is ‘commissioned’ by you for you and your family to enjoy. It will be a one off unique piece and a fitting tribute to the loved one you have lost. My goal is that ashes can become something we treasure by being able to enjoy them within art as opposed to forget in a box https://www.facebook.com/ashesartwork2017/

I hadn’t tried it before so it was all slightly trial and error, 24

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Sunday 8th July 2018 By taking part you will be helping men, women and children fighting cancer. Sponsored Walks from 10am Funday from 12 noon Dog Show (Registration 12.30pm) Held in the grounds of Darent Valley Hospital FREE ADMISSION and FREE PARKING

Celebrate and remember the life of someone you have lost. Celebrate the recovery of someone and give thanks for a saved life. Celebrate a new life. www.dvh.nhs.uk/stride4life For more info: 01322 428392 1 0 50 y No: Charit tered Regis

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CLAREMONT DECORATIVE SERVICES • ALL TYPES OF INTERNAL AND EXTERNAL DECORATING • AROUND THE HOUSE MAINTENANCE JOBS • FREE ESTIMATES • REFERENCES AVAILABLE • RELIABLE, INEXPENSIVE AND QUALITY WORK BY LOCAL TRADESMEN CAN WE HELP YOU?

Please call Mike or John on: Tel 01322 406439 / 01322 525708 Mobile: 07742 085333 Email: mikeperry5001@aol.com Partners: Mike Perry and John Petherick

Reynolds Beauty Sixth Form New from September 2018

Open Days Tues 10th April 9.30am-11.30am Mon 14th May 4.00pm - 6.00pm • College course for 16 - 18 year olds • Full time fully funded course • Term Time Only • NVQ Level 2 Beauty Therapy with progression to Level 3 Email kelly@reynoldsgroup.co.uk or call 01322 275807 to enrol www.reynoldsbeautytherapy.co.uk 26

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MONEY ADVICE

WEBSITE: www.capuk.org TELEPHONE: 0800 328 0006

by CAP

The Good (and Frugal) Life

potatoes; just bury them into your container or bag of compost and wait. If you love instant results, you won’t have to wait for long. Crops like lettuce pop up really quickly and before you know it, you’ll have a tray of tasty greens ready to eat. Keep sowing your seeds a week apart and you could have fresh salad every week, all summer long. Not every crop will be a success, but that’s part of the fun. You’ll be amazed at how much you learn and within no time you could be a grow-your-own expert.

We’re always hearing messages about eating fresh fruit and vegetables to keep us healthy. So imagine having all this literally on your doorstep, ready for when you need it. Growing your own fruit and veg is good fun, you don’t need lots of space and it’s so cheap to do. If you have a garden, you’re all set. If not, you can grow your own on a sunny windowsill or balcony. For those who really get the gardening bug, you could apply for an allotment and become self-sufficient, but perhaps we’re getting ahead of ourselves. Let’s start small. What would you like to grow? Think about what you and your family enjoy – lettuce is an easy one and gives you lots of options; tomatoes and cucumbers too. Strawberries are always welcome and having fresh herbs available adds extra flavour to meals and drinks. Be creative with your containers. Any plastic pot with a few holes poked in the bottom will make a great plant pot. Ice cream cartons are ideal. If you have a spare bin outside your house, this is perfect for things that need deeper roots, like potatoes. Some varieties of tomatoes will grow very happily in a hanging basket.

This is also a fantastic activity to do together with the kids. Not only does it teach them where food actually comes from, it also encourages them to eat the things they’ve grown. Lots of children hate tomatoes, but trying a cute cherry tom that they’ve grown from seed can be the turning point. What’s more, any form of gardening is a great stress reliever. The simple routines of sowing and watering are a superb way of winding down after a busy or stressful day. So here’s your challenge: get that new life feeling this springtime, start sowing and enjoy the very freshest food this summer. Are you living on a low income or tight budget? Would you love to learn simple and effective ways to make the most of your money and not be held back in life by your financial situation? If so contact Kelvin on 07861 101496 regarding a local CAP money course to help you with budgeting and saving. If you’re struggling with debt, don’t panic – last year we helped over 20,000 people with their debts. Give CAP a call on 0800 328 0006 or visit capuk.org. All CAP’s services are available to everyone regardless of age, gender, faith or background and are free.

Then all you need is some good soil – a bag of multipurpose compost is ideal – and some seeds. Packets of seed are super cheap. You can get them from garden centres of course, but also from many high street stores for less than a pound and you get lots of seeds in each packet. For potatoes, you’ll need to buy special seed www.dartfordlivinglive.co.uk - www.dartfordliving.com - www.dartfordbusinessdirectory.co.uk

LOCAL CHARITIES WIN AT KENT CHARITY AWARDS 2018 Katrina Adams, Operations Director said” I am so very proud that we have been given this award. It is a fantastic achievement for the entire staff team who are the people that make it all possible. We are fortunate to have staff that is so committed to their work and care passionately about Disabled children and their families. Feeling proud is an understatement”

WE ARE BEAMS SCOOPS TOP AWARD We are Beams was voted “Best children’s Charity” at the recent Kent Charity Awards hosted at the Priestfield stadium in Gillingham. The competition was high from many other very worthy charities but the judges said they were bowled over with the passion, enthusiasm and commitment their staff showed when caring for disabled children and families in Kent. HOSPICE CHARITY WINS CARE CHARITY OF THE YEAR Leading provider in specialist palliative and end of life care, ellenor was named ‘Care Charity of the Year’ at the Kent Charity 2018 Awards, which recognises the outstanding contribution charities and voluntary groups undertake to make the lives of others better. The award recognises the Hospice’s commitment to its patients and their families in delivering high quality care and support when it is needed most. ellenor was shortlisted alongside the Kent Autistic Trust and Pilgrims Hospices. ellenor is the only charity in the county that provides hospice care for people of all ages, from the very young to the very old, in their place of choice, and Children’s Hospice at Home. This means that across Kent we can be there for adults, children and young people, ensuring they have access to the very best care and support. Each year demand for our services is increasing – last year we cared for over 2,500 families.

The comes at the end of a very eventful financial year where the original charity established for over 20 years ago by parents of disabled children, changed the name to We are Beams to help lift the profile of the charity to help secure future finances, and to reach out to more families than ever before. patients and their families and this award recognises their work tirelessly supporting others behind the scenes. My special thanks also goes to our faithful and committed supporters, who enable us to raise the necessary funds to provide our services free of charge to patients and their families”. Now in their fifth year, the Kent Charity awards have become an unmissable date in the third sector diaries. The awards ceremony was held on Thursday 15 March at Priestfield Stadium in Gillingham. If you would like to find out more about ellenor and its services please visit www.ellenor.org or call 01474 320007.

Claire Cardy, ellenor’s Chief Executive said: “We are thrilled and deeply honoured to win ‘Care Charity of the Year’ and to be recognised that our personalised approach to care is making such a difference to people’s lives. I am incredibly proud of the whole team and I would like to thank the staff and volunteers for everything they do. They help us to deliver the highest quality care to our 28

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THERE’S A KIND OF HUSH... by Stef O’Neil

Led by renowned Musical Director and vocal coach, Tania Holland Williams, the newly established HUSH COMMUNITY CHOIR meets from 7pm-9pm on Monday evenings in central Dartford. We are a friendly group that is always looking to welcome new members. No auditions are necessary and there is no requirement to read music. We welcome all abilities and all singing voices. We cover a varied repertoire including musical theatre, gospel and classical music. Strong vocal technique is taught. The emphasis is on having fun while learning to sing well and healthily. The ambitions of the choir are: to bring together people from Dartford and the surrounding area to make music together, to sing and to create platforms for new friendships; to foster confidence among choir members to make the best sound they are capable of; to provide an environment that welcomes people from all backgrounds and abilities; to deliver a number of performances across the year to diverse audiences.

charity is Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust (www.jostrust.org. uk/), the only UK charity dedicated to women affected by cervical cancer and cervical abnormalities. In support of Jo’s, a team from the Hush will be participating in Steps for Jo’s, the annual sponsored 5k walk or 10k run on 9 June 2018 at the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in London. Following the recent success of our Spring concert last month which raised £200 for Jo’s Trust, we are now planning our Summer concert which will take place in July. If you’d like to become part of the Hush, just come along for a free, no obligation taster session where you will be made to feel very welcome! Our new term starts on Monday 9 April and joining details are as follows: Membership fees: £70 per term Membership includes: 10 x 2 hour sessions per term; at least one showcase performance each term; printed music; invitations to join other (sometimes free) singing workshops that the MD runs during the year. For further information about the Hush, please contact: hushchoir@gmail.com or visit our Facebook page at www. facebook.com/hushchoir/

The choir will also undertake charitable fund-raising for other causes across the year. Each year the choir members will nominate a charity. For 2018 the chosen www.dartfordlivinglive.co.uk - www.dartfordliving.com - www.dartfordbusinessdirectory.co.uk

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SPORTS NEWS Bav’s Sporting Comment

Lionel Messi seems to reach a milestone or set a record every time he plays. Against Chelsea on 14th March, he reached two. First, he registered his fastest goal in the Champions League by netting after two minutes eight seconds from a narrow angle, and later he reached 100 goals in the competition with a blistering low strike which went - as did his first - straight through the legs of Blues keeper Thibaut Courtois. He is only the second player to reach a century of goals in Europe’s premier club competition, joining his great rival at Real Madrid, Cristiano Ronaldo, in the 100 club. Ronaldo’s tally stands at 117 in 148 games. Messi’s 100 has come up in 123. The next man on the list - former Real Madrid forward Raul - has 71 goals. Of those still playing on the list of most Champions League goals, Karim Benzema is closest to Messi and Ronaldo with 53.

UPCOMING EVENTS IN APRIL INCLUDE:

3-4: Football - Champions League quarter-final first legs 4-15: Commonwealth Games, Gold Coast, Australia 5-8: Golf - Masters, Augusta National 8: Formula 1 - Bahrain Grand Prix, Sakhir 10-11: Football - Champions League quarter-final second legs 10: Football - Women’s World Cup qualifying - Bosnia & Herzegovina v England; Northern Ireland v Norway; Scotland v Poland 13: Cricket - County Championship season starts 14: Horse racing - Grand National, Aintree 15: Formula 1 - Chinese Grand Prix, Shanghai 21 Apr-7 May: Snooker - World Championship, Sheffield 21-22: Football - FA Cup semi-finals, Wembley 22: Athletics - London Marathon 24-25: Football - Champions League semi-finals first legs 29: Formula 1 - Azerbaijan Grand Prix, Baku 32

Dartford’s Health Walks Healthy Living Centre - Mondays 10.00am Darenth Country Park - Tuesdays 10.30am Greenhithe - Wednesdays 11.30am Central Park - Thursdays 10.30am Swanscombe - Fridays 10.00am Temple Hill/The Bridge - Fridays 11.00am

weekly!

• • • • •

Health walks are free and led by trained volunteer walk leaders Short social walks that last around an hour No need to book - just turn up Any age and ability welcome Great for people getting little or no exercise, recovering or suffering from an illness or lacking in confidence • Dress for the weather including comfortable footwear

For more details including starting points please contact Healthy Lifestyles Project Coordinator on 01732 227000

FIRST SESSION

DARTFORD BOOTCAMPS Outdoor Bootcamp classes Bootcamp Strength Sessions Animal Flow (indoors) Personal Training and Nutrition Coaching also available.

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KEVINâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S STRING OF DARTING SUCCESSES by Kevin Stringer

Kevin Stringer has just competed in the first ever televised disabled darts competition in Holland where he made it to the semi-final in a field of the top 16 players in the world. Kevin was born on 3rd June 1974 and is a disabled professional darts player from Dartford, currently playing in the Professional BDDA (British Disabled Darts Association), and is the number one ranked wheelchair darts player in the UK having won 2 events this year in Birmingham and Stafford.

He is ranked joint 5th in the BDDA world. Kevin has competed in various championships across Europe including Belgium, Holland and events in the UK. He has won various championships and events. Kevin will also qualify for the masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s championship in Bridlington in September and he is looking for sponsorship. Kevin can promote your company or organisation by promoting you on his shirt and various social media. Kevin has a large following through contacts and other organisations including the BDDA. Kevin also carries out many events for charity. Kevin is looking for companies to sponsor him while he competes in various competitions in the UK and across Europe. including various televised events. Please feel free to contact Kevin via email or by phone. Email Kevin Stringer : kevs10@hotmail.co.uk or by phone: 07531001709.

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HISTORY OF DARTFORD LAWN TENNIS CLUB By Tony Brown

Several years ago I, was handed three Dartford Lawn Tennis Club minute books by a member of the Dartford Historical & Antiquarian Society and from these I have compiled a list of members. I am now putting together a history of the club.

Cup is Walter Ernest Harle (captain), and the gentleman 2nd from the right is Mr Einar Skjold, donor of the cup.

If any of the Dartford Living readers have any information, photos or memorabilia to do with this club, whose headquarters and courts were at the Dartford Football Club ground in Watling Street, I would be very pleased to hear from you. You can contact me by email: tonyjan@talktalk.net

Advertise in the magazine for as little as ÂŁ30 per month

The photograph is of the Dartford Lawn Tennis Club team in 1922 after their victory in the SKJOLD CUP, which formed part of the Erith Hospitals Cup Competition, raising funds for the Erith Cottage Hospital. [photo: Courtesy of Dartford Borough Museum]â&#x20AC;? Of the eight people in the photo, those so far positively identified are: far left George W. Sarel, who was also chairman of Dartford Football Club, the gentleman holding the Skjold 36

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DARTS NEWS By David Shafford

MASCOT NAME VOTE

We have had lots of suggestions for the name of our new mascot. It has been hard to narrow it down with names ranging from Prince Dart to Birdy Mcbird Face! We have narrowed it down to 3 choices: - Watling Warbler - Darty the Warbler - Sylvia (The Dartford Warbler’s Scientific name) The voting is open to name our new mascot. www.dartfordfc.com/mascot-vote/ You have until 7th April to cast your vote.

www.dartfordfc.com

EXCITING NEWS! COMING TO PRINCES PARK… The Paul Page Golf Academy at Princes Park Grand Opening Day on Saturday 31st March 2018. 8.30am – 5pm Play the course for FREE Win a year’s FREE membership Win a PGA Professional Swing Analysis Lesson Family fun – FREE Golf Easter Egg Hunt 12pm – 3pm Download your FREE Golf Voucher on our website to take part in any of these events. www.dartfordlivinglive.co.uk - www.dartfordliving.com - www.dartfordbusinessdirectory.co.uk

LOCAL SPORTS CLUBS By Brian Downton

DARTFORD PARKRUN Dartford parkrun is a free to enter 5k run every Saturday morning starting by the Dartford harriers track in Central Park at 9am. All participants get a time a position emailed and texted after the event. To register go to www.parkrun.org.uk. Remember to bring your printed Barcode. Every Sunday Morning in the Park there is a Junior parkrun over 2k – registration is the same. SEEDS CYCLING CLUB DARTFORD Seeds is a long established cycling Club in Dartford and we share our headquarters at Hesketh with Dartford Cricket Club. We cater for most abilities and have a social ride most Saturday mornings. For info on joining us please visit our website www.seedscycling.co.uk DARTFORD AND WHITE OAK TRIATHLON CLUB We are the local British Triathlon Federation Club covering Bexley, Dartford and Swanley. We offer coached swimming sessions 3 times per week at White oak pool in Swanley and Fairfield pool in Dartford. Our members compete in many local Triathlons plus many members are training towards Iron Man distance. We also have our own Triathlon in June every year which has been running since 1989. If you are interested in joining us then please visit our website www.dartfordandwhiteoaktri.co.uk Entries are now open for the DWOT club annual triathlon The White Oak Triathlon is one of the oldest Triathlon events in England. Now in its 29th year the event is a club organised event, for triathletes delivered by triathletes so you can be sure that the club focuses upon delivering a first class race experience. This is open to anyone whatever their experience Entries and more info at the following link www.dartfordandwhiteoaktri.co.uk/white-oak-triathlon/ DARTFORD ROAD RUNNERS Dartford Road Runners are based at Princes Park Stadium and are one of the biggest road running clubs in Kent. We currently have about 200 members of all abilities including a beginners group. DRR teams compete in the Kent League, the Assembly League and the Kent Fitness League. To see what we offer and how to join us please visit our website – anyone is welcome to join us with all abilities. dartfordroadrunners.co.uk/node/440 Joydens Wood summer series – First race will be Wednesday 30th May 2018 at 7.15pm and is open to anyone – save the date and 38

entry forms will be available soon Run Dartford Series 2018 again sponsored by Downton and Ali Associates – First of the 5 races will be on Friday April 20th on Dartford Heath – save the date and entries will be open soon DARTFORD HARRIERS ATHLETICS CLUB Dartford Harriers is among the leading athletics clubs in Kent, with a history stretching back to the 1920′s, making it one of the oldest clubs in the country. If you are interested in seeing how we can help you advance your Athletics then please visit our website www.dartfordharriersac.co.uk The Dartford Half Marathon is one of the longest-running events of its kind. We warmly welcome runners of all ages and abilities to enjoy a mix of urban and rural running through lanes paved with the enthusiasm of our dedicated volunteers. Your participation in this event also supports athletics in the local community as well as a number of nominated charities. This years event took place on the 11th March. Check the website for updates on next years dates and entry procedure. www.dartfordhalfmarathon.co.uk CENTRAL PARK ATHLETICS CLUB We are situated in Dartford’s outstanding Central Park, and can provide access to a state of the art running track (relaid in 2015) and the full range of track and field facilities for just £4.50 per session (we offer discounted annual memberships). Refreshments and changing facilities are also available. For no extra charge, we hold coached track sessions on Wednesday evenings for runners of all abilities. This is a tough but very popular way to increase your stamina and running technique, and you’ll be in the company of qualified coaches and some of the friendliest runners around. For more information please visit our website centralparkathletics.co.uk SO LETS GO RUNNING (SLGR) SLGR is a local running club with structured training sessions designed to improve runners speed and stamina. There are currently four runs available with more starting soon; see below for more details. The Run leaders for each group are as follows; Dartford Cricket Club, Dartford - Dawn & Brian Cyclopark, Gravesend - Dawn & Brian New runners are always welcome and you can contact Brian if you would like more information; see contact details and e-mail

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Stephen P. Gay

Historical Military Themed Tours for Clubs, Groups and Societies

Funeral Service

65 Darenth Road, Dartford, DA1 1LU

01322 617499 – 24 Hour

25 Station Road, Longfield, DA3 7QD

01474 700194 – 24 Hour

Legacy offers a range of military themed tours from a day trip to the scene of the Battle of Hastings, to bespoke tours to the WWI and WWII battlegrounds of Belgium and France from as little as £39 per person. • Luxury Coach Travel • Local Collection Points

We are the only independently owned and family run Funeral Directors in Gareth Johnson, Member of Parliament for Dartford, will be available to meet with constituents on the Dartford & Longfield. following dates: Professional Service at an affordable price. Bluewater, DA9 9ST (4.00 pm – 7.00 pm - Appointment required) Friday Floral 3rd March We can provide prepaid Funeral Plans, Tributes, a fleet of Hearses and Friday 21st April Limousines to suit or even a direct Cremation Service. Friday 19th May th Friday 9toJune We also create our own memorials commemorate a loved one. Friday 28th July Direct Cremation Service from £1,450.00 Friday 8th September

• The Services of an Expert Battlefield Tour Guide • Channel Tunnel Crossings (where applicable)

For further details please contact Steve Hookins

• Accommodation (B&B basis) (where applicable)

Legacy Historical Services Ltd Room 9, 145 Nathan Way, Thamesmead SE28 0AB Telephone: 0208 311 5309 Mobile: 07783 021508 Email: legacy@lewiscoaches.co.uk

For more information, please visit Open Surgery – (no appointment necessary) www.stephenpgayfunerals.co.uk

www.legacyhs.co.uk

Dartford Festival, Central Park, Dartford – Saturday 15th July “Let our family, take care of your family.” If you would like to meet Gareth at one of his regular appointment based surgeries in the future, please M e m o r i acontact l , E xhim h uatmgareth.johnson.mp@parliament.uk a t i o n , R e p a t r i a t i o nor telephone & F u n 020 e r 7219 a l S7047. ervice

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DON’T EVEN THINK ABOUT STARTING A DIET UNTIL YOU’VE DONE THIS… By Mark Broadbent People are quick to jump on whatever diet is trendy at the moment in an attempt to lose weight. Often, the diets they choose are completely inappropriate, unrealistic, or maybe even detrimental to health. All for the sake of some quick weight loss. Whilst many of the diets around can work, they don’t work for everyone, and you need to know what you’re doing rather than just following a plan designed to suit everyone! What we can take from all of these diets however is what they have in common rather than their differences. For the most part, all of the most successful diets will involve a slight calorie reduction, a change to healthier foods (note I said healthier, this doesn’t mean you have to eat only leaves!), avoiding/reducing processed foods and increasing whole foods (and exercising regularly). This is easily done. It doesn’t mean abstaining completely from the foods you enjoy, just a change to healthier options, and trying to cut back a bit on the “less healthy” foods (especially with Easter coming up!). So, before you go on any diet, make a few changes first and see how you go. Often, diets aren’t necessary and actually just make weight loss more difficult since you end up struggling to stick to them. Do the following and you shouldn’t need to “diet”: Eat protein at every meal. This includes breakfast! It’s really important to get plenty of protein. It helps your body grow and repair and will also fill you up for longer (which despite certain adverts – cereal won’t do!). This may stop you snacking so much between meals. Eat healthy fats at each meal. These are essential for health and low-fat diets can actually cause harm if you’re not getting these essential nutrients. Eat at least 5 portions of VEG per day. Don’t live on

fruit and think that will cover your vegetable intake. Not only is veg good for you, but if you eat a small salad or some veg with or before meals, it will fill you up a bit and will hopefully stop you over-eating the more calorie-dense foods in the meal. Try eating it as a starter to ensure you eat all your veg! Get some in at every meal. Limit carbohydrate intake if you’re aiming to lose weight, but don’t eliminate them! Just eat a bit less of the bread/ pasta/rice etc if you’ve been sedentary. On training days, you can eat these more freely as you’ll need to replace energy, but don’t go mad. Eat slowly and pay attention. If you eat too quickly, you’ll likely have over-eaten by the time you realise you’re full. Slow it down, chew every mouthful well, and pay attention to how full you feel – you don’t have to be stuffed after your meals. Just not hungry any more. Following these 5 simple rules may well be all you need to do to change your diet and get control over your weight. It doesn’t have to be a test of will and weeks of suffering. Please don’t try any fad diets until you’ve given this a go. Nothing needs to be complicated. Simple nearly always works best, and for diet this is also true. Constantly strive to improve your eating habits and you can only get better. If you need help, get in touch for Personal Training or Nutrition Coaching via www.MarkOneFitness.co.uk or www.DartfordBootcamps.com Train safe! Mark Broadbent

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A STORY OF BOX OFFICE SUCCESS FOR LOCAL THEATRE GROUP By Pat Walsh

One of the most well-known and beloved shows in musical theatre will be making its way to town this spring as Dartford Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society (DAODS) brings West Side Story to Dartford’s Orchard Theatre. As an updated version of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, West Side Story stunned audiences when it opened on Broadway in 1957 with its vivid mixing of drama, daring choreography and latin inspired score from Leonard Bernstein. The show tells the story of Tony and Maria and their quest to find happiness together amid the turmoil of gang war between the Jets and the Sharks. Many of the show’s songs have passed into the popular canon; songs like ‘America’, ‘Tonight’ and ‘I feel pretty’ will already be familiar to many audience members.

The Society has been rehearsing towards the April performances since October, with a cast of over 50 local performers meeting twice a week at their headquarters, Heathfields Hall in Dartford. ‘It’s been a huge undertaking’, explains the show’s Director Alex Freeman. ‘We have a great mixture of long-standing and brand new society members in the show and they have gelled together really well. In particular we have worked hard on the many dance sequences that the show is famous for and we’re looking forward to seeing everything come together in the last few weeks of rehearsal’. One area where this show has already been a triumph for the Society is at the box office where they have seen ticket sales outpace all their previous productions of the past 8 years. They are hoping that this success will not be a one-off, as Chairman Paul Farlie explains. ‘We have been working hard at marketing, not just individual shows but the Society as a whole, for a number of years. It has been great to see that this show has already been so popular with the public, the last time we saw tickets selling this fast was in 2010 for our production of The Wizard of Oz, but there is a chance that we will surpass even that total.’ This show will be followed by the toe-tapping Irving Berlin classic Top Hat, which will again be performed at the Orchard Theatre in October 2018. The Society is always looking for new talent, both on and off-stage, and anyone who is interested in getting involved should email daodscom@gmail.com. West Side Story is being performed from 18th – 21st April at the Orchard Theatre, Dartford. Tickets: 01322 220000 or www.orchardtheatre.co.uk

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THEATRE ROUNDUP By Liz Dyer

Anyone who’s been to the theatre in Dartford over the last few weeks will know there’s been plenty going on. Phil Daniels explored his dark side in Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde, and a kidnap plot went very awry in Ruth Rendell’s Gallowglass. Meanwhile on a slightly cheerier note, Strictly favourites Vincent and Flavia were back in Tango Moderno, and Thriller Live was every bit as - well, thrilling as anticipated. No time to pause for breath after that little lot though, because there’s more on the way. Kay Mellor’s Fat Friends the Musical - based on the popular TV show from a few years back - arrives in Dartford on 9th April (until 14th), starring Jodie Prenger, Sam Bailey and Corrie’s Kevin Kennedy. We won’t get to see Freddie Flintoff though - which could be good or bad news, depending on your viewpoint. That’s followed by the return of the excellent Dartford Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society (DAODS) with one of the all-time classic musicals, West Side Story (18th21st). Based on Romeo and Juliet, Leonard Bernstein’s tragic love story never fails to get audiences sobbing, and I’ve no doubt this production will be no different; I’ll be bringing tissues for sure.

the 2005 Tony Award for Best New Musical, this very silly show is “lovingly ripped off” from the 1975 movie Monty Python and The Holy Grail and is full of misfit knights, killer rabbits, dancing nuns and ferocious Frenchmen. Who can say no to that? On top of all that, we’ve got - among other highlights - an evening with the legend that is Brian Blessed (3rd), SingA-Long Beauty and the Beast (5th), comedy from Russell Brand (29th) and music from 60s favourites The Hollies (7th) and opera star Russell Watson (22nd). A few other local(ish) shows to look out for in April: if you missed Gallowglass at the Orchard last month, there’s another chance to catch it at Bromley’s Churchill Theatre from 17th-21st, and the Marlowe in Canterbury plays host to Ria Jones and Danny Mac in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Sunset Boulevard (16th-21st).

If you prefer to look on the brighter side of life, at the end of the month get set for Monty Python madness in Spamalot (24th-28th). Written by Eric Idle and winner of

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COMPETITION

The Pack is back and this time, they are bringing Ella Fitzgerald! The Rat Pack Live from Las Vegas sends you back in time to the glamorous, golden era of 1950s Las Vegas, when Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Junior and Dean Martin joined forces and become the hottest ticket in town at the famous Sands Hotel. Mon 14 May â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Sat 19 May

To book tickets visit orchardtheatre.co.uk | Ticket Office: 01322 220000 We have teamed up with The Orchard Theatre to offer 2 tickets to The Rat Pack (your choice of date). To be in with a chance of winning this fantastic prize just answer the following question... What was the name of the hotel they performed at in Las Vegas? a) Sands Hotel b) Beach Hotel c) Sea Hotel d) Waterfront Hotel Closing date 15th April. Email your answer to competition@dartfordliving.com Good luck!

RUES: 1. The winner(s) will be the first correct entry/entries drawn. 2. The judgeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. 3. Prizes are as stated and no cash in lieu or an alternative prize will be offered.. 4. Winners will be notified by telephone by the Orchard, within 5 working days of the competition being drawn. 5. Employees and the immediate families of participating companies are ineligible to enter. 6. Closing date for the competition is stated above. 6. Unless you advise otherwise we can use your email to send you promotional material from Dartford Living.

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CAR NEWS - APRIL 2018 By Dhiren Ganesh

In this month’s article we’ll bring you new model versions available in 2018 from different classes including a new electric SUV to rival the Tesla.

2018 Jaguar I-Pace – The new Jaguar I-Pace is the British firm’s first electric car, promising 0-60mph in 4.5sec and a near-300-mile range between charges. It’s also the first challenger to Tesla’s dominance of the luxury electric car market. As an electric car and an SUV, it’s right on trend, blending two sectors of the car market that are growing fast. Power for the I-Pace comes from two electric motors, with one at the front and the other the rear, to make it four-wheel drive - combined these motors produce 395bhp. Recharging the batteries from 0-80% capacity from a standard wall box – as you might when plugging in overnight – takes 10 hours, while one of the current generation of public rapid chargers would reduce that to 85 minutes. It will be on sale during summer 2018 priced from £58,995£76,900.

2018 Toyota Auris – The new Toyota Auris has been revealed at the Geneva motor show, and the big news is there will be two hybid options but no diesel. You can have the 121bhp powertrain, which combines a 1.8-litre petrol engine with an electric motor, plus a new 2.0-litre hybrid producing 178bhp. However, the only conventional engine is a turbocharged 1.2-litre petrol with 114bhp. The 2018 Auris is based on a new platform and is longer, wider and lower than its predecessor in an effort to make it look more dramatic. Plus, it features a front grille that was apparently inspired by a catamaran’s hull. It will be available later in 2018 with the price estimated to be around £20,000.

2018 Mercedes-Benz CLS – The Mercedes-Benz CLS is now in its third generation. At 4.98m long, it’s truly executive car-sized, and it still has those dashing frameless windows that seamlessly add a touch of glamour. The AMG 53 and a four-cylinder petrol-engined model won’t arrive until the autumn. At its April launch, the CLS is offered in three variants: all are three-litre, six-cylinder engines; two are diesels, one is a petrol and all are priced in the high £50,000s. All CLS models are four-wheel drive and their interior is constructed from top-class materials, and fit and finish is superb. The CLS range starts at £57,000, which will rise, presumably, to around £70,000 for the AMG 53 performance model.

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WHERE TO GO LOCALLY Parent and Toddler Groups - Term Time Only

MONDAYS 9:15am - 11:00am - A&J Toddlers - St Anselms Church Community Centre, Dartford. £2.00 per one adult and child and 50p for any extra children or adults each. Tea/coffee biscuits, small snack for children with juice. Toast 20p per slice Craft table and singing and dancing at end of session Contact Julie on 01322 291092. TUESDAYS Session 1: 9.15-10.45am, and Session 2: 11-12.30pm. Christchurch, Crossroad, Dartford. Contact Catherine on 01322 220036. 9.30am -11.30am. The Salvation Army, 66 Hythe Street, Dartford. Please call us on (01322) 288434 for further information. 9.30am-11.30am Sticky Fingers - £1.50 per adult includes tea ,biscuits and healthy snack time for the children For pre school children up to 4 years St Mary Greenhithe Church Hall London Road Greenhithe Contact 01322 382031 or see www.stmarygreenhithe.com WEDNESDAYS 9.30am -11.30am. The Salvation Army, 66 Hythe Street, Dartford. Please call us on (01322) 288434 for further information. 10am -12pm - Little Angels Net Church, (Formerly Gala Bingo Hall) Dartford, £2.50 per family including all snacks and drinks. Charlotte 01322 272649. 12:45pm -2.45pm - Fleetdown Open House - Fleetdown Community Centre, Swaledale Road, Dartford, DA2 6JZ £2.50 per Adult THURSDAYS 9:30am - 11:30am. St Paulinus Church Hall, Manor Road, Crayford. 9.30am-11am Toerags Toddler Group - Adult education centre, Dartford £3 per Child - £1 Non Walkers - facebook.com/ ToeRags 1pm-2.30pm Toerags Toddler Group - Adult education centre, Dartford £3 per Child - £1 Non Walkers - facebook.com/ToeRags FRIDAYS 9.30am-11am Baby and me for expectant mothers and mothers / carers of chidren up to 2. £1 per adult St Mary Greenhithe Church Hall, London Road Greenhithe. Contact 01322 382031 or see www.stmarygreenhithe.com 9.30am-11am Toerags Toddler Group - Adult education centre, Dartford £3 per Child - £1 Non Walkers facebook.com/ToeRags 9.30am-11.30am Carer & Toddler Group, St Mary’s Church Hall, Stone Place Rd, Greenhithe. Jeanne 01322 380322 jeannehoadley@yahoo.co.uk 1-3pm Gigglekidz, Tree Estate Community Centre on Cedar Road - £2 Per Child SATURDAYS 9.30am-11.30am Daddy and Me - A group for dads and male carers of children up to 5years. £1.50 includes healthy snack time for the children. St Mary Greenhithe Church Hall, London Road Greenhithe. Contact 01322 382031 or see www. stmarygreenhithe.com

Toddler Music & Rhyme Sessions at Dartford Libraries - Monday Friday Thursday Story Time Fleetdown - Tuesday Greenhithe - Thursday - Thursday Longfield Summerhouse - Tuesday Sutton-at-Hone -Monday. Temple Hill - Thursday Dartford

10:30am - 11am 2:15pm – 2:45pm 10:30pm -11:00am 10:30am -11am 2.15pm – 2.45pm 10:45am -11:15am 10:30am – 11am 2pm – 2:30pm 10.30am -11am

a b c +=

LITTLE BRIGHT SPARKS Fun phonics, literacy and numeracy classes for 2-4 year olds. Held in West Kingsdown on Tuesdays at 1.15 and Wednesdays at 12.12 £6.95 per class one to one tuition also available for 2-7 year olds. 07768 447657 for more info www.facebook.com/littlebrightsparks http://www.babysign.org.uk/

SLADE GREEN AND HOWBURY COMMUNITY LIBRARY BABY AND TODDLER ACTION RHYME TIME GROUP Every Wednesday (Term Time only) at 11.15am LEGO Club Every Saturday 2-3pm for ages 5 and over Chrome Road Slade Green DA8 2EL Tel: 01322 333602

Come along and join in the fun! Term time only For more information please call 03000 41 31 31 48 Please mention Dartford Living when contacting our advertisers

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WHERE TO GO LOCALLY Groups and Clubs

THE NORTH WEST KENT BRANCH OF THE MOTOR NEURONE DISEASE ASSOCIATION meets at 8pm on the 4th Wednesday evening of each month in the PopIn Parlour, Mill Road, Northumberland Heath, Erith. The meetings last about 2 hours and the group often have a speaker on a variety of subjects, followed by tea and biscuits and general chat. For more information contact Eileen on 01322 228169.

NORTH KENT EMBROIDERERS’ GROUP Meets on the third Saturday of every month (except August) from 2pm - 4pm in the Community Room of Gravesend Library, Windmill Street, Gravesend DA12 1BE. The programme of activities is varied with workshops, talks and sit and stitch sessions. Visitors are very welcome. More information can be found on our website www. northkentembroiderers.co.uk or phone 01474324734.

DARTFORD OSTOMY GROUP SUPPORT (DOGS) meet every third Wednesday in the month at St Anselm’s Parish Centre, West Hill, Dartford DA1 2HJ from 1.00 pm to 3.00 pm. It is for anyone who has an Ileostomy, Colostomy, Urostomy, IBS and pouch, their carers, family and friends.

THE GARDENING CLUB SUTTON AT HONE Monthly meetings, Visits to Gardens, Annual Garden Show and much more. For more information or to become a member please ring 01322 863556.

ALL DIRECTIONS is a community learning organisation for adults and young people aged 16+ with physical, learning and mental health difficulties. For more information, attend a taster session or visit our community lunch club, contact Caroline on 01322 440482 or 07570 347612

AGE UK, CRAYFORD LIBRARY POP IN PARLOUR COFFEE MORNING every Friday morning 10.30 - 12.30 Tea, Coffee, Biscuits and a chat - Just £1

YOGA & MEDITATION CLASSES Every Tuesday from 6-7pm &Thursday from 10.30am to 12.00pm at Peppercorns, 3 Orchard Street, Dartford, Kent, DA1 2DF. For more information please call The Hope Group on 07580 615206.

BEXLEY AND DARTFORD BRANCH PARKINSONS UK For people with Parkinsons and their carers. We have 2 meetings per month. Bexley: 4th Thursday of each month, at Pincott Hall, 2-4pm. Dartford: 2nd Thursday of each month, Mick Jagger Centre, 7.30-9.30pm. Information support workers available, guest speakers and quizzes. Contact Wendy Leach. Tel: 02083065973

JUST FOR GROWN UPS GROUP We are a small friendly group who meet at the Meeting Place in the Orchards Shopping Centre on the first Tuesday of the month. Join us any time between 11am and 1pm for a social chat, coffee and biscuits or a fun quiz. For more information contact mikeansell.dt@hotmail.co.uk

MODERN LINEDANCING CLASSES St Michael & All Angels Church Hall, DA2 7EG Wednesdays 1pm - 2pm. Fun, social class learning routines from differing genres to popular music providing exercise for body and brain. No dance experience or partners necessary. Contact Kay 01322 276528

SHORNE FLOWER ARRANGERS Our Club presents a programme of workshops and demonstrations in a very informal and friendly atmosphere. We meet on the last Thursday of each month except December. Shorne Village Hall, The Street, Shorne. DA12 3EA. Visitors are always made very welcome, entry £3. We have 30 members and look forward to welcoming anyone who loves flowers. The Club provides an opportunity for people to be creative, make friends. For further information please phone 01474 353405 or email landaclatworthy@btinternet.com

BEXLEY PHILATELIC SOCIETY Meetings first and third Friday of the month at Freemantle Hall, Bexley village, 7:30 for 7:45 start. Covering stamps and postal history, meetings offer displays, auctions, competitions, and convivial atmosphere. More information on www.bexleyps.org.uk

SWANLEY HISTORY GROUP Meets 1st Tuesday of every month. Presentations on local social history. Venue Swanley Indoor Bowls Centre Garrolds Close Swanley BR8 7BF. Doors open 7.15 for 7.30 p.m. Members £1 Visitors £2. Everyone welcome. Email swanleyhistorygroup@hotmail.co.uk for more details or visit our website https://swanleyhistorygroup.weebly. com or Facebook page. Annual membership £5 includes a monthly newsletter. 50

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DARTFORD BRIDGE CLUB meets every Tuesday evening at 7.00 pm at Wilmington Christian Fellowship Church Hall, Broad Lane, Wilmington DA2 7AQ. We are seeking new members at all levels to play Duplicate Bridge -cost £2 per session. Enquiries: contact John Davies on 01474 832221 or e-mail carolandjohnd@tiscali.co.uk 20S 30S DARTFORD BEXLEYHEATH SURROUNDING AREAS SOCIAL GROUP more information visit: www.meetup.com/20s-30s-Dartford-Bexleyheathsurrounding-areas-social-group/ DARTFORD U3A (UNIVERSITY OF THE THIRD AGE) meets on the first Tuesday of every month (except August) at St Anselm’s Church Hall, West Hill, Dartford at 2pm, For information about meetings and interest groups call 01474-709068 or visit our website. THE DARTFORD STROKE GROUP This group meets Monday afternoons at the YMCA Roundhouse, Overy Street, Dartford for a chat in a relaxing atmosphere, chair-based excise sessions, stroke leaflets and magazines, informal workshops, special art or games sessions and outings. It is aimed at Stroke Survivors, their carers, family and friends. Please contact Theo Hodges on Theo.Hodges@gmail. com or phone/text Theo on 078 755 68296 for more details and current dates of our events and meetings DARTFORD FLORAL CLUB The club meet on the 3rd Friday of the month at Hawley Pavilion, Hawley Rd.(opp Papermakers Arms) at 7.30 Come along for an evening of beautiful flowers, fun and friendship. Entrance £6.00, refreshments and a raffle with the chance to take home a beautiful floral arrangement. Contact Chris 01322 836026 DARTFORD QUILTERS meet on the 2nd Saturday of each month at the Mick Jagger Centre, Shepherds Lane, Dartford. We run a varied programme of activities suitable for the beginner through to the more experienced quilter. More details can be obtained from the club secretary on 01474 834872 DARTFORD BOOKS AND CULTURE CLUB meets once a month on Saturday mornings at Dartford Library. For more information, find us at www.meetup. com/West-Kent-Book-Club/ THE DARTFORD CHESS CLUB The club meets every Thursday evening from 7.30pm at St Anselms Parish Hall, West Hill and was founded 100 years ago in 1914. All queries to Mike Wiltshire at 01322 272152 or visit www.dartfordchessclub.co.uk

at Sutton at Hone Village Hall. 1.30pm until 4.30pm. £3.00 per afternoon (to include a raffle ticket and tea/ coffee) £10.00 yearly fee. We are a small, friendly club, not expensive. Tuition given. All supplies can be bought in situe. Come and see if you like it, You will be very welcome. Contact - Maureen Beckham 01322 287214. Marie Blake 01474 704581. Doreen Goddard 01474 707357. WEST HILL MORRIS Come and join your local Morris side, dancing and performing in Dartford, Gravesend and Bexley areas and throughout Kent in the Summer. We are a mixed and very sociable side, and can always find room for new dancers and musicians. It’s a great way of keeping fit and you’ll be helping to conserve a great English tradition. We practice alternate Tuesday evenings at Bexley, from September to April, then dancing out at pubs, clubs and fetes, throughout Kent, from May to August. Private Bookings taken. Contact Alison on 01322 862298, e-mail alisondukes@btinternet.com THE WELLBEING LINK The Wellbeing Link meets on Friday mornings from 10-1pm in the St. Anselm’s Parish Centre, 89 West Hill, Dartford A friendly and informative group - call Julie On 07775875585 STIMUL8 ACTIVITY SERVICE I provide all the equipment, materials and refreshments with just a small all inclusive, pay as you go, fee of £10.00 per person per session. Those who come have the opportunity to learn painting with watercolours, acrylics, inks and how to draw with pencils, soft pastels, oil pastels, charcoals, watercolour pencils, fabric pens, plus basics of sculpting and have the opportunity to sign up to additional floral workshops I offer too. www.stimul8-activityservice.co.uk THE ASSOCIATION OF BEXLEY CHARITIES ’78 is holding a Grand Spring Fair at the United Reformed Church Geddes Place, Bexleyheath DA6 7DJ (near the Broadway Shopping Centre) on Saturday 14th April 2018 from 9.45 am - 1.00 pm Local charities will be selling CDs; DVDs; Jewellery; Cards; Books; Jams, Cakes, Pickles; Toys; Model Railways; Collectables; Children’s Games Admission 50p, accompanied children free Refreshments Charities represented: Alzheimers Society, Bexley Branch; Bexley Downs Syndrome Group; Bexley Smile; Breast Cancer Now; Cats Protection Bexley and Dartford; The Children’s Society; Demelza Hospice Care For Children; LEPRA Health in Action; Lupus UK; Motor Neurone Disease Association

COLUMBINE CHINA PAINTERS CLUB meets on the 1st and 3rd Thursday each month www.dartfordlivinglive.co.uk - www.dartfordliving.com - www.dartfordbusinessdirectory.co.uk

WHERE TO GO LOCALLY Groups and Clubs

TONI MOUNT HISTORY CLASSES The group meet every week at Towncentric in Gravesend and this year we are looking at Everyday Life in Medieval London. We meet every Thursday from 10.30-12.30 at £6.00 per week customers can phone me on 01474 355676 for more information or look at my website www.tonimount.co.uk DSTC ALUMNI Hi all, if you went to DSTC, DTC, Dartford West Girls or any other name that the school has been known as we would love to hear from you! The school is looking to make links with former students to help raise the profile of the school but also as a way of getting back in touch with people. There will be an event later on in the academic year and we are planning some exciting things for the group so get joining and let’s get reminiscing!! www.facebook.com/groups/DSTCAlumni THE MANOR HALL VARIETY GROUP We meet every Tuesday at 8.00 in the Community hall (opp St Paulinus church) Crayford. We are looking for anyone who could help us with sound, lights, scenery or singing/acting on the stage - everyone welcome. Email me (Carolyn) for more details at c_sawyers@hotmail.com. CRAYFORD TOWN ARCHIVE incorporating Barnehurst and Slade Green. Meet every Monday (except the third Monday) of the month at Crayford Library hall - 2pm-4pm. Call in for a chat about old Crayford and to view the large collection of local images, or bring your own for us to copy. TALK TIME TUESDAY 2.00 - 3.00PM (TERM TIME ONLY) Fleetdown Library Everybody welcome, join us for a friendly chat and light refreshments. HAVEN (LGBT) SOCIAL GROUP. London / Kent area. Every Friday - a safe Place to Meet. For more information please contact 01322 287356 or 07503 306467 or email - havenx35@gmail.com SCRAPPY DAYS! A SCRAPBOOKING GROUP is being held at Hawley Pavilion, Hawley Road, 52

Dartford, DA2 7RB on the 2nd Sunday of the month between 2pm and 6:30pm. It costs £6 which includes refreshments, nibbles and the use of a cricut (cutting machine for those that don’t know). Beginners are very welcome. Contact Michelle on 07910 488428 or email scrappydays@hotmail.co.uk PAVILION PLAYERS Is an amateur dramatics group based at the Joydens Wood Community Centre, Wilmington, Kent. We meet every Tuesday from 8-10pm. For more information please visit www.facebook.com/pavilionplayers or call us on 07505 006539. Alternatively just pop down on a Tuesday night! Everyone welcome! DARTFORD BELLRINGERS Holy Trinity Church, High Street, Wednesdays 8.009.30p.m. Free tuition with a very friendly, sociable group. The ideal way to make new friends. Phone Ester 01322 220458 or email: esther.correia1@btinternet.com North West Kent Family History Society The Dartford Branch meet the 1st Saturday of each month from 10am-12:30pm at the Dartford Science and Technology College, Heath Lane, For more information see www.nwkfhs.org.uk or ring Janet 01322384836 WILMINGTON WOMEN’S INSTITUTE is a friendly group who meet on the 2nd Wednesday of every month at 7.30pm in the Memorial Hall, High Road, Wilmington. For more information on our activities please call Ann Hambridge on 01322 228082 Erith Model Railway Society has been in existence for over 50 years and has well over 50 active members. As the club continues to grow new members are always welcome. The club meets on Wednesday evenings from around 7.00pm until around 9.30pm at our new clubrooms in Invicta House (aka Belvedere Workingmen’s Club), 66 Gilbert Road, Belvedere DA17 5DA. DARTFORD ACTIVE RETIREMENT GROUP,[ DARTARA,] We are a group that meets on second Thursday once a month 2 - 4pm at Fleetdown community

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centre. At the meeting we have a guest entertainer or speaker, we also organise holidays and day trips out as well as activities including theatre trips, curling, short mat bowls, indoor games, coffee and cake afternoons and an art group. Just turn up on the day or phone Maureen Dixon-Jones 01322 383337 or Glenys Theobald 01322 273108 for more information THE ROTARY CLUB OF THE NORTH DOWNS They meet at the Holiday Inn, Black Prince, Thursday evenings 7:30pm for 7:45pm for Dinner and fellowship. For details phone 07759 863836. THE NATIONAL WOMEN’S REGISTER The National Women’s Register (NWR) is a national organisation that meets in the Dartford area. The NWR is a discussion group for ‘lively minded women’. Contact can be made via www.nwr.org.uk or call 01603406767 and ask about the Dartford group. HEALTHCARE RETIREMENT GROUP Dartford & Gravesham Branch. Meets the first Wednesday of every month at the Masonic Hall, West Hill, Dartford from 10-12pm.Activities include guest speakers, outings, lunches, holidays and quizzes. For more information contact Marion on 01322 402967 OVER 55’S CLUB - We meet every Wednesday 2pm to 4.30pm at Tree Community Centre, Cedar Road. We play bingo, tea and biscuits, and socialise. We also run regular coach trips to the coast throughout the year. Our club is open to anyone over 55 wherever you live and costs just 60p to come along and join in. So why not come and join our friendly welcoming social club? For further information please call either John Letchford on 01322 270732 or Pam Carr on 01322 222195. JOYDENS WOOD WOMEN’S INSTITUTE meet on the third Tuesday of every month, with meetings beginning at 7.45pm. We meet at the Community Centre, Birchwood Drive, Wilmington, DA2 7NE. More information can be found at joydenswoodresidents.co.uk (under Local Clubs and Societies). CRAYFORD AND DISTRICT PROBUS CLUB meet on 1st and 3rd Wednesdays at the Falcon Wood Club, 1 Falcon Wood Avenue, Welling at 10am. Contact Tony Maun 0208 306 1075 or email Crayford.Probus@gmail.com. FAIRFIELD (DARTFORD) WI 2nd Tuesday of every month, Dartford Girls’ Grammar School, 7.30pm. Contact Judith on 01322 278703

CRAYFORD WOMEN’S INSTITUTE 1st Thursday of every month at 1.45pm. Baker Trust Hall. Maxim Road, Crayford (near Sainsburys). Contact Secretary, Linda Lewis 01322 557229 DARTFORD LADIES PROBUS CLUB A group of retired ladies meet locally for lunch on the 4th Wednesday of each month,. They raise funds for charity and usually invite a speaker. Join them and enjoy meeting and making new friends. If you would like more information please contact Iris (Secretary) on 01474 703448 MALE? AGED 18 - 45? Round Table is for the guys with Ladies Circle for the Ladies (ladiescircle.co.uk) Dartford RT meets every 2nd and 4th Thursday. Often called the original young man’s social club, Round Table has over 400 clubs in the UK and is in 50+ countries worldwide. We have an emphasis on having a lot of FUN. We guarantee that involvement with Round Table will enhance your social life, your personal abilities, your network and best of all it is not expensive. For your chance to become involved in something very special, you need to experience it because no other organisation offers you the opportunities that Round Table does. Check out the locally famous club www. dartfordroundtable.co.uk Facebook search: * Dartford Round Table * Round Table * Dartford Egg Hunt You will receive a very warm welcome. THE ROTARY CLUB OF DARTFORD We meet at lunchtime at The Royal Victoria and Bull Hotel on 1st, 2nd and 3rd Tuesdays. Time 12.45 for 1 pm For further details phone: 07706 103706 THE RENDEZVOUS CLUB (50+) Every Monday Time: 8pm - 10pm Location: Close to Bexleyheath Town Centre Description: We are a (non-profit making) friendly social group open to anyone over fifty. We enjoy socialising, making new friends and activities including Quizzes, Meals Out, Trips to the Theatre, Cinema, Coach Trips, Gentle Walks and Short Breaks Away. Admission: Subs £2.50 per week. Annual membership £6 If you would like to join us or require further information please telephone: Tel: 01322 287356 or 020 8304 6414

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WHERE TO GO LOCALLY Sport

WHEELCHAIR EPEE FENCING Wheelchair epee fencing in Dartford and Gravesham, we are delighted to announce that New Ash Green Epee club, can now introduce wheelchair fencing. If interested in taking up this para sport please contact us on 01474 871484 or alternatively look at our website www.nagfencing.eu ERITH YOUTH RUGBY Sunday 10:45-12:00, Sussex Road Erith. Ages 4-16 welcome 07903 590515 LITTLE TIGERS - KARATE FOR 3, 4 & 5 YEAR OLDS Sundays 10:15-10:45 at Swanscombe Leisure Centre. Call Saj on 07903 513104 DARTFORD GYMNASTICS is the only British Gymnastics Club in Dartford to hold the”GymMark” Award for 6 years. Based in Heath Lane, we are a friendly club with super equipment, great coaches and high standards. We do lots of competitions and we do not close through the holidays! Visit our website www.dartfordgymnastics.co.uk for full details or contact Linda on 01322 409312 or email dartfordgymclub@yahoo.co.uk LEARN KARATE Learn karate with Yamato Damashii – for adults & children Every Wednesday evening at the Leigh Academy & every Saturday morning at Becket Sport Centre, first lesson free. For more info, visit www.ydma.club or find us on Facebook, search for Yamato Damashii Martial Arts. YOGA WITH EMMA Wednesdays & Fridays 9:30am-10:30am At Europa Gymnastics Centre Mondays 7.30pm to 8.30pm and Fridays 7.00pm – 8.00pm at Becket Sports Centre For more information please contact Emma: emma@samadhi-yoga.co.uk TEL: 07932 621415 www.samadhi-yoga.co.uk 54

KENT EXILES AMERICAN FOOTBALL CLUB www.kentexiles.co.uk. Coach Martin - 07944 730634. All ages from 7 years to adult welcome HARTLEY SWIMCLUB AT WHITE OAK POOL, SWANLEY We are a friendly group of adults who meet for a social swim every Thursday at 9pm. We’re looking for new members. Why not give us a try? Contact Diane on 01689 871846 or join us one Thursday. Tuesday Morning Yoga Class at Sutton Court, SuttonAt-Hone The class is from 9.30am to 11am and is a mixed ability class - beginners are always welcome. More information is available at www.yoga-vitality.com or please contact Lesley at lesley@yoga-vitality.com or 07531 140646 DARTFORD JU JITSU CLUB Mondays 7-8pm for 7-16s at the Dartford Girls Grammar, Shepherds Lane Dartford DA1 2NT in the Dance Studio. We have an adult class 8-10pm too. We’ve been running for 20 years, building confidence, teaching self-defence, hardening the target, developing skills and always welcome new members. DARTFORD ORIENTEERING CLUB For more details see www.dfok.co.uk HOP LIKE IT’S HOT A fun (different) circuit based workout with space hoppers that challenges core stabilty, balance and strength. It is suitable for all levels and abilities. Classes are held every Wednesday evening at the stone pavilion starting at 8:15 until 9:00 costing £5 per person.

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THE HIGHLY STRUNG BADMINTON CLUB, Friendly club seeking new members. Abilities mixed. Would suit players with some prior experience. Thursdays at 7.45-9.45pm, Dartford Girls’ Grammar School, DA1 2NT For further information please email: stephanie.thredgle@btinternet.com

This group was set up after the founder suffered with PND herself and on trying to find support groups noticed there wasn’t any in KENT, We now support mums from all over the world online, in person or at groups. We pride ourselves on being there so no one feels alone or scared when dealing with PND. Groups held every Friday 12-2pm at St Mary’s church hall Greenhithe Kent.

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DARTFORD LIVING

Groups are set up in a playgroup style with activities for children of all ages and adults. Free to attend and refreshments/snacks supplied by Mummy on the Mend. Staff are available to talk with should you feel you need extra support. We are also able to help refer parents onto other services if needed. Staff are DBS checked, Frist aid trained and have training in mental health problems. This is a friendly relaxed group for families to meet others in the same situation as them. Our focus is on mental health however anyone is able to attend.

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The Brent Playgroup meet Monday to Friday 9.15am to 12.15pm Term time only. For enquiries please contact: Mobile: 07989073866 Tel 01322 271738 (between 8 and 12:30) email: thebrentplaygroup@gmail.com or call in at any time. Registered for Free for Two Children The Brent Methodist Church Hall PostCode DA1 1XF

The World Garden and Lullingstone Castle www.lullingstonecastle.co.uk

EVENTS

Season Starts 31st March

5PM RIL -11AM – 1ST & 2ND AP 31ST MARCHuiz EasterEgg Q - 5PM MAY - 11AM 27TH & 28TH kend ee W l Medieva 5PM* – 12 NOON 17TH JUNE den Scheme ar G l Nationa 11AM - 5PM & 1ST JULY 30TH JUNE lly Fire Engine Ra - 11AM - 5PM TH AUGUST 27 & TH 26 , 25TH rs Weekend Plant Hunte – 11AM - 5PM SEPTEMBER 15TH & 16THebration Weekend Mexican Cel ON - 7PM BER - 12 NO 28TH OCTO ving Event Pumpkin Car Halloween & 56

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USEFUL NUMBERS Local and National

KEY NUMBERS Police 01622 690690 NON EMERGENCY ONLY Fire Safety Advice & FREE Home Fire Safety Check 0800 169 1125 Dartford Borough Council 01322 343434 Gas Leaks (24 hour) 0800 111 999 EDF Energy Networks Emergencies/Powercuts Helpline 105 Flooding 03459881180 Highways Kent 03000 41 41 41 Social Services 03000 41 41 41 Water Burst 0800 820 999 (Southern) 0800 714614 (Thames) HEALTH Darent Valley Hospital 01322 428100 Dartford East Health Centre 01322 421480 Dartford West Health Centre 01322 222998 Boots Chemist Bluewater 01322 624780 (Late Night) ASDA Greenhithe Chemist 01322 374100 (Late Night) The National Pandemic Flu Service 0800 1513 100 West Kent NHS helpline 0800 0 850850 TRAVEL Heathrow Airport Enquires 08700 000123 Gatwick Airport Enquires 08700 002468 National Rail Enquires 08456 484950 Highways England Info Line 0300 123 5000 HELPLINES 24 Hour Kent Dementia Helpline:

0800 500 3014 Alcoholics Anonymous: 08457 697 555 Citizens Advice Bureau: 01322 472 979 Debt Councilling (CAP) 0800 328 0006 Information About Drugs FRANK: 0800 776600 Kent Homophobic Incident Reporting Line: 0800 328 9162 Kent Racial Incident Reporting Line: 0800 138 1624 Local Breastfeeding Counsellors Judianne/Paula 01322 224072 National Domestic Violence Helpline (24 hour) 0808 2000 247 NSPCC Child Protection Helpline: 0808 800 5000 RSPCA Kent, North West Branch Helpline 01322 286720 Samaritans: 116 123 LOCAL MP Gareth Johnson 020 7219 7047 LOCAL SPORTS CLUBS Bexley Rugby Club 01322 550142 or www.pitchero.com/clubs/ bexleyrfc/ Dartford Ladies Hockey Club Dawn Hall (Secretary) 07793 777250 Dartford Ju Jitsu Club Mondays, Dartford Girls Grammar School, Shepherds

Call 999 in an Emergency Fire, Police, Ambulance and Coastguard 101 Non Emergency Number for Kent Police Crimestoppers 0800 555 111 111 NHS Non Emergency Number

Lane. 6.30-8.00 Juniors, 8.00-10.00 Seniors www. dartfordjujitsu.co.uk

Dartford Sharks Basketball Club Tim Dickson - 07855 692527. Dartford Volleyball Club Graham - 01322 275290 or 07984 106134. Stone Lodge Indoor Bowling Club 01322 274111. VCD Table Tennis Club Eric Jenkins - 0208 3038312. ‘Play & pay’, 9 hole, par 3 golf course on Dartford Football Club’s Princes Park- Contact: 01322 299990 www.dartfordfc.com The Ashes Badminton Club Mondays, Dartford Technology College, Heath Lane. 7.30-9.30. Jacqui 07764 182854. Dartford Valley RFC www.pitchero.com/clubs/ darenthvalleyrfc/ USEFUL FACEBOOK GROUPS Dartford Living Dartford Today and Tomorrow Dartford Remembered Dartford Gossip Dartford Living Community Group

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ADVERTISERS INDEX

Directory of Local Businesses advertising in Dartford Living ACCOUNTANTS, FINANCE & LEGAL Buss Murton ...................................................................... 40 Downton Ali Associates.....................................................59 GF + Co...............................................................................41 BUILDERS, DECORATORS ROOFING, BATHROOMS, KITCHENS & WINDOWS Dream Doors......................................................................10 Nightingale Bathrooms......................................................22 Steve Cook - Double Glazing..............................................23 The Double Glazing Repair Man........................................35 CARE HOME Emerson Grange...............................................................17 CHILDREN Bip Bop Shop.................................................................43 Hartbeeps......................................................................49 Monkey Music................................................................55 COSMETIC, BEAUTY & HEALTH Dia Wipes...............................................................................7 COUNCIL Dartford Borough Council ................................................31 ELECTRICIANS AES Electricians....................................................................4 ESTATE/ LETTING AGENTS GPS Lettings.........................................................................7 Fox Estates ........................................................................15 Wisdom Estates..................................................................39 FUNERAL DIRECTORS Stephen P. Gay....................................................................39 GARAGES & VEHICLE SERVICES Orchard Garage..................................................................60 Shenley Road Garage..........................................................45 HOUSING Bramble Tye..........................................................................9 HOTELS Campanile.............................................................................4 Bull and Victoria..................................................................22 JEWELLERY Bradleys...............................................................................23 LAW Apex Law...............................................................................6 LOGISTICS/ REMOVALS 58

FD TRANSPORT ...........................................................42 NURSERY The Brent Playgroup......................................................56 MEDICAL AND HEALTH Ifield Therepy.................................................................29 MUSIC/DANCE & FITNESS Blondie’s Fitness...................................................................4 Dartford Bootcamps...........................................................32 Fairfield Leisure Centre......................................................30 Why Weight?.......................................................................20 Worried about your childs weight?....................................21 Vibe.....................................................................................17 OPTICIANS Linklater Opticians.............................................................40 PICTURE FRAMING Craft Frames........................................................................42 PRINTING My Printing Room...............................................................12 SECURITY Excel Security Systems......................................................13 SPORTS Fairfield Leisure Centre......................................................37 WILL WRITING SMN Will Writing ...........................................................22

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