Dartford Living August Issue by Dartford Living

By the community, for the community

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August 2017 - Issue 134

Dartford’s premier independent nursery for professional people looking for nurturing, home-from-home day care for their children aged 3months – 5 years. Open 7am – 7pm to fit in with your work life Places available from September – we invite you to come and have a look around. Call to arrange an appointment.

ktbkids.co.uk ktbkidsnursery 01322 277200 Westgate House, Spital Street, Dartford, DA1 2EH WHAT’S INSIDE...

DSTC Community Day - Pages 8-9 What’s on in the summer holidays - Pages 10-12 Dartford FC Fixtures 2017/18 - Page 36

Plus - All your regular

features, events, information and much more in your larger 60 page issue.

www.dartfordlivinglive.co.uk - www.dartfordliving.com - www.dartfordbusinessdirectory.co.uk

MONDAYS VCD Sports Club, Old Road Crayford, DA1 4DN 9:30am, 11:30am, 5:30pm and 7:30pm Sue 07507 599691 British Legion Hall Devon Road South Darenth DA4 9AA 9:30am, 5:30pm and 7:30pm June 07957 902767 Fleetdown Community Centre Swaledale Road, Dartford, Kent, DA2 6JZ 3:30pm, 5:30pm and 7:30pm Paula 07891 424401 Church Centre, 112 Swanscombe Street, Swanscombe, Kent DA10 0JZ 7:30pm Lisa 07986 030199 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

Wilmington Memorial Hall High Road Dartford DA2 7DW Tuesday, 530pm Susan 07584991531

THURSDAYS The Howard Venue (formerly South East Dance Studios) 39 Egerton Avenue, Hextable, BR8 7LG 9:30am WEDNESDAYS Caroline 07776 VCD Sports Club, Old 181413 Road Crayford, DA1 4DN 10:00am, 5:30pm and St Anselmâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Parish 7:30pm Centre Liz 07900 213548 89 West Hill, Dartford, Kent, DA1 Glentworth Ex 2HJ Service Club 5:00pm and 7:00pm 154 Lowfield Street, Gillian 07957 135737 Dartford, Kent, DA1 1JB Greenhithe & 9:30am and 12:00pm Swanscombe British Gillian 07957 135737 Legion Club London Road, Greenhithe, DA9 9EJ The Howard Venue 5:30pm and 7:30pm (formerly South East Paula 07891 424401 Dance Studios) 39 Egerton Avenue, SATURDAYS Hextable, BR8 7LG Amar Hall 5:30pm and 7:30pm East Hill, Dartford, Caroline 07776 Kent, DA1 1RX 181413 9:00am Sarah 07739 027161 Temple Hill Community Centre Christ Church Centre Temple Hill Square, Kingswood Avenue, Dartford, DA1 5HY Swanley, BR8 8AN 3.30pm, 5:30pm, 8:00am and 10:00am 7:30pm Kelli 07931 085668 Jo 07800 797030

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WELCOME TO THE LATEST ISSUE OF

DARTFORD LIVING

BY THE COMMUNITY, FOR THE COMMUNITY

14 10-12

8-9 Contents

8-9..................DSTC Community Day 10-12..............Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s On in the Summer Hols 14...................KTB Kids 16...................Life Under the Stairs 18...................Buzy Bees 24...................24 hours in the life of.... 26...................Fundraising in the sun 32...................Stanhill Farm Recipe 34...................Sports News

35.......................News from Princes Park 36..................... Dartford FC 2017/18 Fixtures 44.......................Local Entertainment 45.......................Fitness 46.......................Auto News 47.......................Gardening News 48-55..................Where to go locally 57.......................Advertising Index 58.......................Useful Numbers

Check out our website for even more local news and articles

www.dartfordliving.com 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.

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Dear Readers,

I hope you enjoy August’s 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!” Don’t forget that we run Dartford Living alongside volunteer members of the local community FOR the local community. Dartford Living is YOUR magazine, the only independently run magazine serving the local area with information, fun, good news and positive local stories! Feel free to 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! We deliver to thousands of homes and businesses in the local area, however if you don’t always receive a copy directly through your door, you can pick up a copy from various drop off points. These include Dartford Football Club, numerous local libraries, Fairfield Leisure Centre, The Priory Shopping Centre, Stephen Oliver Art Gallery, numerous health centres and local Barclays branches. The ‘Previous Editions’ section of the Dartford Living website also includes electronic versions of Dartford Living magazine. Additionally, if you email editor@dartfordliving.com we will add you to our newsletter email mailing list and contact you just once a month with an electronic copy of Dartford Living! Over 5,000 local people already do this!

Until next time, Vijay - Editor, Dartford Living (and Amie , Annie, Barbara, Bhavesh, Bradley , Cath, Catherine , Christine, Daniel, David, Dawn, Derek, Debbie, Dhiren, Elaine, Eleanor, Emma, Emma, Holly, Jackie, Jane, James , Jenny, Joanne, John, Kay, Ken, Kelly, Mark, Nickki, Nicola, Pam, Richey, Sarah, Sam, Sharon, Stephen, Steven, Teresa, Tarnya, Vanessa and the rest of the fantastic Dartford Living volunteer team)

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YOUR NEXT DEADLINE IS 15TH AUGUST 2017

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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

1st Floor

Bexleyheath

Basepoint Business Park

87 Rainham High Street

DA7 5HH

Victoria Road, Dartford

Rainham, Kent

01322441442

DA1 5FS

ME8 7HS

info@apexlaw.co.uk

01322283854

01634233331

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rainham@apexlaw.co.uk

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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

Available to order from leading insulin pump pouch and diabetic accessory supplier: Funky Pumpers www.funkypumpers.com or www.dia-wipe.com Interested in advertising? Tel: 01322 507817 www.dartfordliving.com

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FEATURE ARTICLE: DSTC COMMUNITY DAY - by Jonathan Dix

On the 19th July a small girls secondary school in Dartford made a big impact. For the third year running Dartford Science and Technology College held their Community Day.

The rationale behind it is simple: every student and staff member in school volunteers in the community to make a difference. What is unique is that we do it as a whole school. This year that was 630 students and staff. There were 51 placements with the majority in central Dartford. So what did we do? We went to nine primary schools to paint, help students read and other jobs. We worked with most of the parish councils gardening and other tasks. We helped to fundraise for Demelza, We Are Beams, Ellenor, Hope and the Mayors charities. We worked with animal charities like Second Chance, Foxendown Pony Sanctuary and Arrow Riding school plus lots and lots more. The Community Day could not happen without the generous sponsorship from local businesses: KCC, Bluewater, BDP International, ER Productions, Costa, CrestNicholson, Redrow, Barrett Homes, Umbrella Training, Barton Wilmore, Howard Hunt, Campanile Hotel, Rival Colour and the Co-op. We have also had donations of equipment and paint from Brewers, Breyer and Redrow.

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On the day I had the pleasure to visit placements with Kelvin Holford, deputy lieutenant of Kent. The mayor and Jeremy Kite also visited placements on the day. The day was a huge success with students being praised for their hard work and tenacity. The Community Day is here to stay at DSTC. It is unique and not only affects the placements we help but also has huge impact for the students â&#x20AC;&#x201C; many have never spoken to members of the public, stroked a horse or painted in their life. These life skills are vital so that the student leaves us as a rounded individual. 2018 will be bigger and better. If you would like to get involved in some way please email: community@dstc.kent. sch.uk

Dartford Living

WHAT’S ON: SUMMER HOLDAYS IN AND AROUND DARTFORD It is that time of the year again, where parents up and down the country are asking (maybe screaming!) “what shall we do with the kids over the summer holiday?” Not everyone is able to go abroad or even further afield than Kent so we have looked at a number of activties in the local area. Dartford Borough Council have their Summer Sizzler activites, these can be found here: www.dartford.gov.uk/ by-category/leisure-and-culture2/events/activities-2017 Don’t forget the large number of parks and open spaces including Central Park, Darenth Country Park, Shorne Country Park and Hesketh Park.

promises to get you in the holiday spirit with guaranteed fun for all. Visit our sandpit and build a sand castle or sit back and enjoy the uproarious Punch and Judy Show. You can even join in the knobbly knees competition! Last summer the attraction organised its first ever Ice Cream Festival and on 28 August it’s back by popular demand. You will discover ice cream vendors, chocolatiers and sweet stalls galore! And when you’re not tucking into an ice cream why not tap your feet to music from The Boogie Woogie Gals or take a trip around the farm aboard our land train or tractor ride?

FUN AND GAMES FOR ALL THE FAMILY THIS SUMMER AT KENT LIFE HERITAGE FARM PARK

Kent Life is the county’s premier rural heritage experience, set in 28 acres of glorious countryside. Visitors can wander through period dressed historic buildings in the charming Vintage Village; explore the beautiful gardens, orchard and one of the last hand-picked hop gardens in the country; ramble along the wildlife discovery trail and see the last working coal-fired oast house in Britain.

Kent Life Heritage Farm Park has a packed and varied programme of summer holiday activities and events, including Kent Life by the Seaside and the return of the Ice Cream Festival.

The award-winning attraction is also a real working farm, so there are plenty of animals to see, including pigs, sheep, ducks, goats, alpacas, horses and ponies. You can even hold some of the smaller animals in Cuddle Corner.

Six weeks of fun on the farm kick off on 22 July with a fortnight of Whacky Races-themed events. Why not take part in one of our many races or cheer on the competitors to see who wins the most points?

Admission prices: adults £9.95; children £7.95 (aged 3-15); concessions £8.95; family ticket (two adults and two children) £29.95. Members and under-threes go free. Book online in advance and save 15%. Opening times: 10am to 6pm, last admission at 5pm.

Below are details of activites in Dartford and a bit further afield.

And don’t forget to pick up your Explorer Card when you visit this summer – use it to collect stamps for various activities on offer before exchanging your completed card for a free child ticket for Kent Life’s famous Fireworks Spectacular, being held this year on Sunday 5 November. Farmyard Fairy Tales take centre stage from 7- 20 August, when visitors join our entertainers across the site on fairy tale themed activities. Plant your very own beanstalk and join in and build the three little pigs houses. Kent Life by the Seaside from 21 August to 3 September

Kent Life is in Lock Lane, Sandling, near Maidstone, just off junction 6 of the M20 or only an hour by train from London. For information call 01622 763936 or visit www.kentlife.org.uk. You can also follow Kent Life on Twitter @Kent_Life WHAT’S ON AT BLUEWATER

The Beach – 22nd July – 3rd September - £3 pp, (rides charged separately)

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Bluewater is bringing the seaside to guests for the first time with the launch of The Beach! – Featuring tonnes of sand for all to enjoy so you can build sandcastles with the little ones or relax in a deckchair and soak up the sun. For visitors wanting to cool off, head to the giant paddling pool or take a dip in the splash pool. Don’t forget to take a tour of the mall to pick the latest in swimwear, towels and beach accessories from Bluewater’s range of quality retailers. Guests of all ages can enjoy an array of classic funfair rides,including the helter skelter, bumper cars, the log flume and carousel, plus lots more! Watch out for appearances from jugglers, mermaids, Brazilian dancers and Punch & Judy.

Bluewater’s award-winning Nature Trail is great fun for little guests! Pick up a Nature Trail map and quiz sheet and complete the questions around the trail to receive a prize at the Concierge desk outside M&S. The Nature Trail is a 45 minute walk around Bluewater’s stunning Green Flag parkland and lakes, and there’s a playground and interactive games along the way too. New for this Summer, Bluewater is hosting three Nature Fun Days – families can enjoy falconry displays, face painting, balloon modelling and nature-inspired crafts. There’s no need to book and the events are free, just head to the Nature Trail.

For a great day out this summer head to The Beach at Bluewater, found at The Village (near Zizzi and Pizza Express).

The great outdoors at Bluewater is home to three playgrounds, including sandpits and climbing areas for children of all ages. Plus, there’s even more outdoor fun to be enjoyed at Pirate Cove Adventure Park, with its two 18-hole mini golf courses, pedalos and new power boats (available at weekends).

http://thebeachbluewater.com/

Showcase Cinema De Lux

The Nature Trail & Nature Fun Days – 28th Jul, 11th Aug, 25th Aug - FREE EVENTS

For those looking for a more relaxing afternoon, why not book a seat at Showcase Cinema De Lux and enjoy family movie releases, including the latest Summer blockbusters, such as The Emoji Movie and Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets. The very best in shopping and dining There’s no better place to get your hands on the latest fashion and beauty trends than at Bluewater this Summer. Stock up on holiday essentials, nab the perfect Summer wedding outfit or browse this season’s hottest colours and trends at Bluewater’s 300 retailers – including the new Missguided store. And if all that makes you hungry, take a break from retail therapy by stopping off at one of over 60 places to eat and drink at Bluewater, including favourites such as Wahaca, ASK Italian and Byron. Bluewater, Europe’s leading retail and leisure destination, offers stress-free shopping with extra-

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wide free parking, late night opening and retailer Click & Collect Service. For more info visit www. Bluewater.co.uk Eagle Heights Throughout the Summer Holidays we will have 2 Bird of Prey Flying Displays per day and a Bird of Prey handling session. Lullingstone Castle and The World Garden – Plant Hunters Weekend 26, 27, 28 August - 11am - 5pm

reptile guests joining us during our garden tour. SCAR expert handlers during the garden tour will showcase different animals amongst the continents to truly bring the tour alive, see a Shetland pony in Europe, an Emu in Oz and even a Bengal cat as you walk through Asia plus many more! Lullingstone Castle & World Garden - Eynsford, Kent, DA4 0JA Telephone: 01322 862114 www.lullingstonecastle.co.uk Facebook – ‘The World Garden’ Twitter - @Lullingstone

Photo: Alan Graham

Set within 120 acres of beautiful Kent countryside, Lullingstone Castle is one of England’s oldest family estates, dating back to the time of Domesday. An historic family mansion frequented by Henry VIII and Queen Anne. It is also home to the UK’s first ever ‘World Garden of Plants’, containing some 8,000 plant species, cultivars and hybrids planted in their respective countries of origin, the vision of modern-day plant hunter Tom Hart Dyke. Celebrating the lives of some of Britain’s most intrepid plant hunters, Tom and friends in Victorian dress lead a guided tour of the World Garden at 1.30 – 3.30pm - join at any time! Visitors are offered a unique glimpse into the past to experience an authentic plant hunter’s expedition camp, complete with plant presses, roaring fire, porters and canvas tents. 2017 we will be joined by Second Chance Animal Rescue (SCAR). They have very special animals and

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Help with English and Maths 7-16. Extension and support. Qualiﬁed Teachers.

Ofsted Registered Maths Reading English Spelling Comprehension

DARTFORD • 01322 285685 67 Darenth Road, Dartford, Kent, DA1 1LU

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Call today for a FREE assessment Dartford Living

LOCAL BUSINESS: KTB KIDS

Email:

Facebook: ktbkidsnursery Website: www.ktbkids.co.uk

in a peaceful and tranquil room.

KTB Kids opened in 2014, to provide high quality childcare to professional people living and working in and around Dartford Town Centre. Our children enjoy many fun activities to encourage their development, increase their confidence and ultimately, prepare them for their transition to school. Every day at KTB Kids nursery our children get messy exploring all their senses and they get creative expressing their ideas through painting, sticking, drawing and building. We put on puppet shows or recreate stories, we enjoy daily yoga sessions, read together and the children are supported to extend their play ideas by imaginatively creating scenes and roles using props from our vast range of open ended resources around the nursery. It’s fun, interesting and stimulating for them – and through play, they are learning and developing. It’s just as childhood should be. We are inspired by the Reggio Emilia style of childcare, an approach that harnesses children’s natural curiosity and creativity, enabling them to be driven by their interests to understand and know more. We have a development zone, classroom and baby room and whilst some learning is by age group, a lot includes the children of all ages playing together. Child-initiated and spontaneous exploratory play are frequently and regularly encouraged. We bring the outside in, giving children natural materials to play with – wooden toys, feathers, dried flowers and counting beads. At meal times, they tuck eagerly into a wide variety of flavourful food made from local, ethical produce - healthy and nutritious, to give them the best start in life. We have gained recognition of quality through the Soil Association where we are proud holders of their highest level of catering award. Beyond this we take some responsibility towards sowing the seeds of good food habits for life through regular practical cooking and growing activities, and food-based learning. Come rain or shine, we take our children safely out to explore the local area, including parks, play areas and nature spots. We’re exercising, getting some fresh air and learning along the way about our local area, animals, insects and the natural environment. And when it’s time for a rest, we have a wonderful sleeping room with cots for the babies and small beds for the toddlers to sleep

Our aim is to work in close partnership with our families and as our children develop we help and support the transitions through weaning, potty training and behavioural management, working together to give consistent messages. At KTB Kids we offer an extension to the values our families would like to instil, leading the way with development and education that can be continued at home. There’s so much to do at KTB Kids – dressing up, building, adventures, stories, role play, painting, drawing, soft play, climbing, technology, eating and sleeping so why not join us: We have spaces available for September – and invite you to come and look around. Just give us a call to arrange an appointment – 01322 277200 Facebook: ktbkidsnursery | ktbkids.co.uk

We offer: • A 10 minutes’ walk from Dartford railway station - ideally located for commuters who want to drop their children before, during or after their journey • Care from 7am – 7pm • Care all year round • Care for babies from 3 months old • Daily outdoor adventures • Positive close partnership working with parents • Homemade, organic and nutritious award-winning food With a strong focus on: • Natural play resources • Creative development • Child-initiated play • Storytelling • Explorative play Prices: (Full price details on our website) From £50 for a full day, From £30 for a half day

Chris Fox FNAEA

A PASSION FOR PROPERTY SALES SINCE 1978 94 Brent Lane Dartford DA1 1QX

01322 479660

www.foxestateagents.com

• No Sale No Fee • Free Market Appraisals • Appointments 7 days a week • Professional and Friendly Bespoke Service • Open house and accompanied viewings • Free On-site Office Parking

Fox Estate Agents have won the British Property Award for Dartford. The team were mystery shopped, over a lengthy period, against a detailed set of twenty-five criteria. This gave a balanced overview of their customer service which was judged to be excellent. Chris with Lucy Alexander and Martel Maxwell from the BBC’s Homes Under the Hammer

Life Under The Stairs by Jane Stevenson FLYING THE NEST Buying their own house is fast becoming a dream for many young people. With the Offspring now in their twenties, and both back at home after periods of renting, never has it been more apparent that owning a home is something akin to finding the end of the rainbow. I did a very quick straw poll of average house prices in Dartford. Not even the estate agents, online and high street can agree. Prices quoted as ‘average’ range from £295,000 to £346,000 – this for a three bedroom semi. Let’s assume then, that Offspring Number 1 finds a house she likes in Dartford. She will have to save nearly £30,000 just for the deposit. Add to this the student loan she is paying back, because she thought by having a degree she might get a well paid job, and the fact that she has to run a car to get to work because there is no bus route at all. That makes a big dent in her monthly salary before she even thinks about saving. Offspring Number 2 pays £1200 a quarter to stand in a train, and a further £55 a week to park the car at the station. This one doesn’t even earn enough to begin to pay back his student loan .Sadly the student loan goes on accruing interest regardless of Offspring 2’s financial situation. For him, home owning is off the agenda.

The soaring price of retirement homes (£275,000 and rising) creates a log jam at the other end of the market. It’s not uncommon to find an older person or older couple, living in a three or four bedroom house simply because they can’t afford to move either. We need a period of investment into social housing. Affordable, well built and in the areas where people want to live. There is always a compromise to be made, but I fail to see why that should include having move miles away from family and friends, simply to own a home. The Offspring have made their own decisions. One is looking to buy in East Kent, while the other is moving across country to rent and make a life away from Dartford. The impulsive nature of a unplanned meal, seeing a film or indulging in some retail therapy with each other will be lost. Skype, texting and other social media don’t make up for distance. The Bank of Mum and Dad is finite, and sadly we cannot afford to help out except at the most basic level. The local and national commitment to providing affordable council homes has never been more urgent, and should be treated as a major priority. See you next month.

Until the Right To Buy policy came into force, 45% of the UK lived in council housing. Now it is just 8% .Lists are long and available properties few and far between. Although the figures for house repossession are falling, I have witnessed the devastation caused to families when such action is taken. Housed in inappropriate ‘temporary’ accommodation for years causes untold stress and strain especially when young children are involved. I have no idea of the legalities of taking empty houses and putting them back into council stock. Every time I drive past the deserted houses in Lowfield Street it seems to me to be an opportunity missed. I also wonder if introducing a modern version of the old prefabs would be such a bad idea.

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THE GARDENING CLUB SUTTON AT HONE

Horticultural Society Annual Vegetable, Flower and Craft Show Saturday 5th August - 2pm onwards Scout Hall, Main Road, Sutton at Hone Please call Bryan Middleton 01322 863556 for details

What is Rock n’ Rise Cakes?

Rock n’ Rise Cakes is a company born out of a love for creating cakes for that special occasion that everyone will be talking about for years to come!. I pride myself on making sure that every cake is not only made from fresh and high-quality ingredients that taste great, but also is a great focal point for any special occasion. Your cakes don’t only look good, but they taste incredible, where did your love of baking come from? My mum showed me how to bake when I was young and I have been baking for family and friends for years, creating custom cakes and cupcakes personalised for the individual person or event. Word of mouth began to spread, which is why I decided to launch Rock n’ Rise Cakes! Themed cakes seem to be very popular, what do

you get asked for most? Each and every cake I bake is unique whether it’s Princess or Cartoon themed, a favorite pastime or special occasion everything from the colours, to the size, shape, and decorative theme is designed by working one-on-one with each client. While the exterior of the cake is designed to be a focal point, the inside cake and fillings are a culinary treat. From Fruit fillings, to Chocolate Fudge, Lemon, Red Velvet any flavor combination you desire, the choice is up to you. Rock n’ Rise cakes can be delivered locally and are perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, and any other party or special event. Contact us today so that we can design your perfect cake! Call: 07740 329434 Facebook: www.facebook.com/rocknrisecakes Instagram: rocknrise_cakes

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LOCAL BUSINESS: BUZY BEES Buzy Bees is a children’s softplay facility in Ash, Kent and was opened in October 2015 and is aimed at children between the ages of 0-12. We have 3 separate play areas designed for ages 0-2, 0-5 and 5-12.

Facebook:: buzybeessoftplay Website: www.buzybees.co.uk recommended. We will shortly have a day nursery on site and are looking to introduce other activities in the very near future.

It is a family run business and our wish was to create somewhere that parents could take their children to play but also to be able to join other parents in a friendly relaxing atmosphere. The property was completely revamped between August and October 2015 which included a new modern Café serving hot and cold food throughout the day. Our menus are updated seasonally and we can cater for a variety of dietary requirements and allergies. We are open 7 days a week between 10.00 a.m. and 5.30 p.m. with an indoor play area and an outdoor space for ball games and go karts, weather permitting.

Buzy Bees Soft Play Come and Play Rain or Shine our Playbarn is the place to Bee

We cater for parties for up to 80 children and can be themed and our latest is Nerf gun parties for the summer.

Under 2s Area Under 5s Area Over 5s Area Hive Café

Since starting the business we have been looking to develop other areas, that are necessary to provide parents with a wider range of services and these include an after school club and holiday club, which include a range of activities for the children as well as providing their meals and these are all Ofsted approved.

Outside Area Football

We also run special events during the year, particularly during school holidays and please visit the Buzy Bees Facebook page regularly to check out. In the past we have held breakfast with Father Christmas and with the Easter Bunny and a Halloween themed week in October, all of which were very popular and early bookings are

Go Karts Party Packages Private Hire Parties Nerf Parties Buzy Bees Soft Play, Butchers Lane, Ash, Kent, TN15 7HF Call us on 01474 874118 or for more information buzybees.co.uk

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OPENING HOURS: Monday - Saturday 12.00pm to 2.30pm & 5.30pm to 12.00am Sunday - 12.30pm to 12.00am (Including Bank Holidays) 56 Hythe Street Dartford DA1 1BX SUNDAY BUFFET - 12 ITEMS 12.30pm TO 9.00pm (Dine in only) Adults £9.50, Children Under 12 £5.50

Collect 3 stamps and get 25% off on your 3rd meal Collect 6 stamps and get your 6th meal Free*

Banquet Night only £10.95 (Every Tuesday and Thursday - Dine in only)

WWW.KENTCURRY.COM Tel: (01322) 225129 or (01322) 291216

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why weight...? This 12 week programme includes: • Weekly weight and waist check • Gentle exercise classes • Healthy eating advice • Ongoing personal Support

FREE Stone Pavilion

RAMME 12 WEEK PROG

Hayes Road Greenhithe DA9 9DS Thursday 20th April 2017 to 6th July up for the ign10.30-12.00 S2017

Fairfield Leisure Centre

Lowfield St, Dartford DA1d1LH ... ayJuly toto 4th lan2017 Tuesday 18thpApril 2017 6.30-8PM

WHY WEIGHT...?

ols to o t e h t u o y e iv g l il Swanscombe Town Hall Peppercorns and w E& Greenhithe RESwanscombe ’s FRoad It Grove DA10 0GA Orchard ely*DA1 2DF ivDartford ctApril eStreet ff e re o m t h ig Thursdaya20st April 2017 to 6th July 2016 Monday 17th 2017 to 3rd July e w r man ge you 6.30-8PM

2017 1.15pm-2.45pm Wednesday 19th April 2017 to 5th July 2017 6.30pm-8.00pm

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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 Website: www.smnwillwriting services.com Email: susan.norris@ smnwillwritingservices.com Tel: 01322 291379

The only independently owned and family run funeral directors in Longfield, Dartford and the surrounding villages Especially for the first time, any time of the day or night you can talk to us We will attend to everything We will liaise with doctors, coroners, hospitals, churches, celebrants and ministers We have a private chapel of rest and can provide a fleet of Hearses and Limousines to compliment a dignified occasion We also provide: 24 hour personal service Experienced staff members Worldwide repatriation

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25 Station Road, Longfield, DA3 7QD

01474 700194

01322 617499

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Email: longfield@stephenpgay.co.uk dartford@stephenpgay.co.uk

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STEVE COOK DOUBLE GLAZING SERVICING, REPAIRS AND INSTALLATION

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Mob: 07747 015223 Tel: 01322 412791 45 Knole Road, Dartford, Kent. DA1 3JN. E-mail: steve.cook3@ntlworld.com

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Dartford Living 23

24 Hours in the Life of … a Young Person’s Hostel Worker Daryl, hostel worker for Choices in Gravesend, Kent (all other names are changed for confidentiality) I awake to the sight and sounds of Spring, wondering what today will bring – every day is different in my role as a hostel worker supporting homeless young people aged between 16 to 25, every story that brings them to me resonates, every life touched by circumstances that many of us are fortunate not to face, ever. Fast forward to 10am and I arrive at the office. I check the CCTV that has been recording throughout the night to make sure we have had no unwelcome visitors, when the phone rings - it’s Lucy from another local hostel. She is looking for a room for Nancy, 21 years old, who has been sleeping rough and unfortunately, Lucy’s hostel is full. I don’t have a spare room either but I know I will have a vacancy tomorrow so I talk to Nancy on the phone. She is distraught so I suggest that Lucy brings her over for a chat. When she arrives, a broken young lady with a broken holdall and sparse belongings, we talk and I calm her. I hear her story: Nancy had fled an abusive relationship and had been staying with a friend, while working in a local pub. When her friend moved out to live with her partner, Nancy was given a room in the pub for a few nights to “tide her over” but when this arrangement ended, she approached the council for housing support but they were unable to help. With nowhere else to go, Nancy slept in an alleyway and with nowhere to wash (other than public toilets) or sleep and living on the remainder of her salary (two 30p sausage rolls a day), Nancy’s work started to suffer and she lost her job. The hopeless cycle of homelessness had begun. The night before her arrival at Lucy’s, Nancy had been prodded and poked by a group of men; terrified, Nancy ran for her life. Her terror had brought her to us. I want to offer her the room, then and there. But I know I can’t. Not yet. First there are financial checks to be made – this can take a few days to clear - so I beg a favour and am promised an email response by tomorrow.

Without an address, claiming benefits are impossible. But I know a wonderful local church-led shelter that is able to to provide a “care of” address for Nancy – the first step into state recognition and dignity. The nuns’ assistance and hospitality is humbling – they provide her with a shower, a hot meal and payment for a B&B for the night. However, Nancy doesn’t have any ID – another essential tool for accessing benefits. Luke from Porchlight arrives, he tells us that the charity has some limited funding for ID costs. So, with partnership working and provenance and a bit of help from the Church WiFi! –Nancy gets her ID, is signed up for universal credit and awarded housing benefit to pay for her room. Next morning is nerve-wracking - I arrive in the office and check my emails with baited breath, praying that Nancy’s checks have come back clear. The screen blinks back at me the news I need to hear – the checks are clear!! Knowing that I can now offer her a room, I call Nancy back for an interview (to be put on the hostel waiting list, she assumes) - as soon as the interview is over, I hand her the key and say “You’re moving in right now”. She is open-mouthed, shaking, crying “Thank You, Thank You so much!”, tears of relief falling freely, a weight off her young shoulders. It is an emotional moment for Nancy, for me and for my colleague – you can’t help but feel emotional, no matter how many years you have been in the job. It is the best feeling in the world to make a difference. In 24 hours, my job has changed a life. Nancy has since been offered two jobs and is now happily working. She still suffers anxiety from the abuse she suffered but we can work on that when she is ready – one step at a time. My only regret is that there are many more ‘Nancy’s for whom we simply don’t have the space and who can only dream of waking in their own beds on a Spring morning. Choices Domestic Abuse Helpline: 0800 917 9948 (weekdays, 9am-4.30pm)

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MONEY ADVICE Holiday abroad at a price you can afford

The kids are off school, the ice cream is melting, and the suntan lotion is flowing fast – it’s summer! So naturally for many people, attention will turn to their long-awaited summer holiday. Of course, these things come at a price, and no beautiful sunny beach or breathtaking city is worth getting yourself into financial hardship – trust us! Still, there are plenty of ways to enjoy your excursion abroad without breaking the bank. We asked our friends from the Christians Against Poverty team to share their top tips. 1) Get the most out of your spending money Claire: Do your research before getting your currency – get the best rate for your Euros/dollars/dirham so you have extra spending money. Don’t leave it until you get to the airport! Julia: If you’re taking money out of the ATM or using your card in shops and restaurants, remember that every time there’s usually a transaction fee plus a currency conversion rate. So for us, cash is king! We tend to withdraw enough to last for a few days at a time. Nicky: Let the kids take their own money (or give them a fixed sum) so they aren’t constantly nagging you for souvenirs and instead consider purchases more carefully and learn valuable budgeting skills! Liz: Set yourself a ‘gift buying’ budget in advance. 2) Don’t let costs fly high for flight extras Gwyn: Travel light and take only hand luggage if possible – from experience it can be an extra £50 to check in a suitcase! 3) Look for ways to get around for less Emma: Look into bus transfer services from the airport to your accommodation if you’re doing a city break. We found in Italy, for example, they were really good and way cheaper than getting a taxi. Use public transport to get around during your trip as well (read up before you go). 4) Ensure food and drinks costs are easy to swallow Emma: For restaurants, chat to the hotel staff, tell them you’re trying to keep costs down and ask for recommendations. Nicky: When eating out, step a few streets back from the main tourist area to find much cheaper deals. Julia: Don’t buy water in your hotel – pop along to the nearest supermarket and save a small fortune. Liz: Similarly, buy a bottle of wine at a local store, rather than going out to drink – it’s much cheaper.

Website: www.capuk.org Telephone: 0800 328 0006 5) Do it all without spending it all Nathan: Plan in advance what you want to do and budget accordingly. I use the website budgetyourtrip.com to work out the cost of living in the destination I’m going to and work out a budget based on what sort of trip I’m on (budget, mid-range or luxury). Claire: See if you can get a better rate for combining attractions. For example, in Rome a lot of tickets to one site will get you entry to other attractions too (e.g. buy a ticket to the Colosseum and you also have access to the Roman Forum and the Palatine Museum). Yvonne: Avoid trips arranged by the hotel/reps. It’s just as fun to do your own version of these by local transport, it’s cheaper and you can please yourself when you go and return. Julia: By all means go to the organised tour meeting with your resort rep, but do your own version of the trips and save loads of money. We worked out that last year, for two of us, we saved around £170 by hiring a car for three days and doing three trips ourselves whilst still eating out and paying entrance fees etc. 6) Make sure you’re insured David: However long you’re going away for, don’t overlook the importance of travel insurance. There are plenty of comparison websites that can help you get a good deal, and you and your family will be protected should something go horribly wrong. Gwyn: Look at buying annual insurance cover if you plan to go away more than once. It’s usually cheaper in the long term. 7) Save both money and luggage space Claire: Beware of the mini toiletries you can buy to take with you – they’re really bad value for money. It’s much better to decant your usual shampoo or shower gel into some small bottles if you want to save on packing space. For more help to manage your money well and save for future holidays, sign up to your nearest CAP Money Course at capmoneycourse.org. If you’re struggling with debt give CAP a call on 0800 328 0006, visit capuk.org or pop in to the CAP Drop In at Dartford Community Church Bungalow, 171 Dartford Road, DA1 3EW (via side entrance in Broomhill Road) on the last Wednesday of the month between 12 noon and 2pm to have an informal chat over a cuppa with Karen, our Debt Centre manager (no appointment necessary). All CAP’s services are available to everyone regardless of age, gender, faith or background and are free.

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Dartford Living 25

FUNDRAISING FUN IN THE SUN! Bunting, a barbecue and a band. What more could you ask for in a fun-filled family day out for charity? How about Pimm’s and Prosecco – and plenty of fun and games for the little ones? The fun takes place on Sunday September 3, from noon – 4pm at Mill Meadows Farm, Bexley High Street, Bexley Village. Tickets are £5 in advance or £6 on the day. Children under 3 go free. Katie and Toby Ballard, directors of The KTB Group, together with their friends and family, have raised more than £25,000 for the Evelina London Children’s Hospital since their son Benji was born with complex health needs in 2010. The couple has previously organised several hugely successful events including a food festival, jubilee party, football tournament and casino nights and they hope this year’s family garden party and open-air concert – complete with Eynsford Concert Band - will soar their fundraising to more than £30,000. Eynsford Concert Band will set the tone for the afternoon by performing some well-known classics in two 45-minute slots, starting at 1pm and 2.30pm, while the smells and sizzles from the all-day barbecue, courtesy of Hamers of Bexley, are guaranteed to put mums and dads in the mood for food!

@KTBPhysio facebook.com/ KTBPilatesandPhysiotherapy

“We’ve been fortunate with the weather in the past and hope that this summer’s glorious sunshine will stay with us into September. It’s an ideal family day out in the heart of Bexley Village. “It’s the last weekend before the children go back so school after summer and we promise a fabulous afternoon for everyone.” Diagnosed on the day of his birth with a chromosomal abnormality, Benji, now seven, is a regular visitor to The Evelina for a variety of treatments. He’s had a multitude of operations, including life-saving open heart surgery. Katie said: “The staff at the Evelina do a wonderful job and our family fundraising is a way of giving back for this.” Tickets for the Charity Garden Party and Classical Concert are available from KTB Physiotherapy & Pilates in Bourne Road, Bexley or KTB Kids in Spital Street, Dartford – just pop into the receptions or pay over the phone – 01322 552299 / 01322 277000. There are also a few pitches remaining for stallholders, priced £20. Contact Katie at KTB Physio to book. The day is being sponsored by The KTB Group, KTB Contractors, KTB Rehabilitation and KTB Kids, with generous support from Hamers of Bexley. More updates on: @KTBPhysio facebook.com/ KTBPilatesandPhysiotherapy

There will also be Kentish ales to enjoy, Pimm’s and Prosecco, plus lashings of tea and homemade cakes – all from local suppliers. For the children, there will be a variety of free activities including sports, face painting, a fire engine - and of course, a bouncy castle! Katie said: “We have something for all ages and hope to see the local community turn out in force and support us as they have done so wonderfully in the past.

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Dartford Property Report - August 2017 2.0 Babies Born for Each New Home Built in the Dartford area As more babies are being born to Dartford mothers, I believe this increase will continue to add pressure to the over stretched Dartford property market and materially affect the local property market in the years to come. On the back of eight years of ever incremental increasing birth rates, a significant 2.0 babies were born for every new home that was built in the Dartford council area in 2016. I believe this has and will continue to exacerbate the Dartford housing shortage, meaning demand for housing, be it to buy or rent, has remained high. The high birth rate has meant Dartford rents and Dartford property prices have remained resilient – even with the challenges the economy has felt over the last eight years, and they will continue to remain high in the years to come. This ratio of births to new homes has reach one its highest levels since 1945 (back in the early 1970’s the average was only one and a half births for every household built). Looking at the local birth rates, the latest figures show we in the Dartford council area had an average of 69.8 births per 1,000 women aged 15 to 44. Interestingly, the national average is 61.7 births per 1,000 women aged 15 to 44 and for the region it’s also 61.7 births per 1,000 women aged 15 to 44. The number of births from Dartford women between the ages of 20 to 29 are much higher than the national average, but those between 35 and 44 were significantly lower. However overall, the birth rate is still increasing, and when that fact is combined with the ever-increasing life expectancy in the Dartford area, the high levels of net migration into the area over the last 14 years (which I talked about in the previous articles) and the higher predominance of single person households … this can only mean one thing ... a huge increase in the need for housing in Dartford.

with individuals living longer, people having more children and whilst divorce rates have dropped recently, they are still at a relatively high level (meaning one household becomes two households) ... demand for property is simply outstripping supply. The simple fact is more Dartford properties need to be built… be that for buying or renting. Only 1.1% of the Country is built on by houses. Now I am not suggesting we build tower blocks in the middle of the Cotswolds, but the obsession of not building on any green belt land should be carefully re-considered. Yes, we need to build on brownfield sites first, but there aren’t hundreds of acres of brownfield sites in Dartford, and what brownfield sites there are, building on them can only work with complementary public investment. Many such sites are contaminated and aren’t financially viable to develop, so unless the Government put their hand in their pocket, they will never be built on.

Again, in a previous article a while back, I said more and more people are having children as tenants because they feel safe in rented accommodation. Renting is becoming a choice for Dartford people.

I am not saying we should crudely go ‘hell for leather’ building on our Green Belt, but we need a new approach to enable some parts of the countryside to be regarded more positively by local authorities, politicians and communities and allow considered and empathetic development. Society in the UK needs to look at the green belts outside their leisure and visual appeal, and assess how they can help to shape the way we live in the most even-handed way. Interesting times!

The planners and Politian’s of our local authority, central Government and people as a whole need to recognise that

For more thoughts on the Dartford Property market – visit www.dartfordproperty.blogspot.co.uk

The Business Engagement Team can help you to protect your business from ﬁre, ﬂood and other business continuity risks.

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• Talk to us – our service is completely free to business owners, managers and ‘responsible persons’ in Kent and Medway

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Charity Garden Party & Classical Concert In association with Eynsford Concert Band MARCO P For the Evelina London Children’s Hospital

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Alzheimer’s • Get face-to-face guidance&– Dementia in plain English – from our S U P P O RT S E R V I C E S friendly advisors Registered Charity No. 1024385

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FREE MEMORY CAFÉS

• Email bet@kent.ﬁre-uk.org with your questions or go to www.kent.ﬁ re-uk.org/business for detailed information Hartley West Kingsdown Kingswood Court TN15 6LN 1st Tuesday of The Month 10am - 12pm

Swanley White Oak Court BR8 7WF 2nd Friday of the month 2pm - 4pm

Dartford The Orchard Shopping Centre DA1 1DU 3rd Wednesday of The Month 10am - 12pm

Gravesend The Woodville Halls DA12 1AU 4th Wednesday of The Month 11am - 1pm

LET US HELP KEEP YOUR Mill Meadows Farm £5 per person DA5 in advance 1JY

Wellfield Community Hall DA3 7EG 1st Thursday of The Month 10am - 12pm

BUSINESS IN BUSINESS

12Sunday Sept FREE kids’ 4pm 3 entertainment: Inflatables Face-painting Sports

Eynsford Concert Band 1pm - 1:45pm 2.30pm - 3.15pm

Our sponsors

£6 on the day Under 3s free From KTB Physio, Bourne Road, Bexley Village

01322 552299

Delicious BBQ (Courtesy of Hamers)

Teas and Cakes

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Real Ale and Cider

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Meopham St John’s Church Hall DA13 0AA 3rd Tuesday of the month 10am - 12pm

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Gareth Johnson, Member of Parliament for Dartford, will be available to meet with constituents on the following dates: Bluewater, DA9 9ST (4.00 pm – 7.00 pm - Appointment required) Friday 8th September Friday 6th October Friday 3rd November Friday 8th December If you would like to meet Gareth at one of his regular appointment based surgeries in the future, please contact him at gareth.johnson.mp@parliament.uk or telephone 020 7219 7047.

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We are looking for caring and compassionate community carers

Your local Travel Agent Gary Wilson Travel Consultant

All travel related enquiries welcome, leisure ,business, bespoke, 100% financial protection and why not use our concierge service. Let me be your travel consultant !

01322 515910 www.travelcounsellors.com/gary.wilson

· To work in Dartford and surrounding areas. · Are you able to support people to remain living in their own homes · We do ask you are able to work every other weekend. · Experience is not essential as full in house training is provided. · Drivers required

Please apply on: 01322 225513 or email selma@here-2-care.co.uk

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Dartford Living

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Tomâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fruity Tooty Jam Jar Jelly Ingredients (serves 4-6 people): 1 packet of strawberry jelly, or your favourite jelly 200g raspberries, washed 200g blueberries, washed 400g strawberries, washed, cored and quartered 3 ripe peaches, can use flat peaches 3 ripe nectarines 300ml single cream Method: 1. Firstly, fill a kettle with water and put it on to boil. Then prepare your jelly containers by washing and drying them, and then put them into your fridge to cool down. 2. Next, wash all the soft fruit and pat dry with kitchen roll, be careful to not bruise the fruit. 3. Afterwards, prepare the strawberries by cutting off the calix, and using a straw, remove the core by pushing it vertically through the point of the berry and out the top. Quarter just the strawberries and set aside. You can prepare the peaches and nectarines many ways, personally, I would leave the skins on as it adds some texture. Separate the flesh from the stone and cut into small chunks. 4. Now make your jelly as instructed on the packaging. Half fill the jars with the jelly solution and add some of the fruit then refrigerate for 10-15 minutes. Remove them from the fridge, pour in the rest of the jelly and fruit and continue to refrigerate until firm and slightly wobbly. 5. Serve with a garnish of mint and basil leaves, and single cream poured in the remainder of the jam jar. Toms Top Tips: The great thing about this super easy pudding/snack is it is so versatile. You can adapt it to your favourite jelly, to your own taste. Why not try orange jelly with satsuma and grapefruit, or you could try blackcurrant with blackberries and raspberries. Get the kids involved and experiment to your hearts content.

YOU ARE ENOUGH When we are not enough, we try to fill the void inside by: • feeding emotions – not body • drinking and smoking • pursuing obsessions • seeking extremes Rapid Transformational Therapy (RTT) helps you to find the reason of the issue or unwanted behaviour. RTT is a short-term therapy - a particular hypnotherapy model targeting the source of the problem and giving you a new perspective. RTT provides immediate and lasting results, so you never want to go back.

Hypnotherapy and psychotherapy treatment for - Addictions - Anger - Anxiety - Confidence - Depression - Eating issues - Obsessions - Sleep issues - Stress and pains - Trauma effects

For more information, please call 078 1464 2212 or visit www.ifieldtherapy.co.uk

Initial consultation (1hr) is free. Addictions are treatable in one hypnotherapy session (2hrs), followed by your daily listening to a personalised recording for 21 days.

Practice locations: Crown House, Home Gardens, Dartford DA1 1DZ 45 Central Street, London EC1V 8AB 184 Westcombe Hill, London SE3 7DH

Entry fees apply. During bad weather, the ground may be unsuitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs - please phone prior to your visit. Under 18s must be accompanied by an adult. No dogs please.

Stanhill Farm Birchwood Road Wilmington Dartford, Kent DA2 7HD 01322 669711

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Dartford Living

SPORTS NEWS

BAV’S SPORTING COMMENT Roger Federer, took only an hour and 41 minutes to win his eighth Wimbledon title, 14 years after his first, and left his wounded opponent, Marin Cilic, in a bedazzled heap on Centre Court. “It’s magical,” Federer said courtside. “I can’t believe it yet. It’s too much. I kept on believing and dreaming and here I am today for my eighth title. I hope to be back to defend it next year.” This was music to the ears of his millions of followers, who must secretly wonder when the fairytale will end. However, you watched Federer last year and beyond to be reminded in little passages of what he used to be able to do, and to say that you had seen him doing it. The pleasure of those little living flashbacks came with the lamentable sense that they were the past rather than the present, and that the future would see gentle decay eat away a little more with each year. Not so. This is his 19th grand slam title, his second of the year, and, there is no reason to say that the youngest 35-year-old in sport cannot go on to win the final major of the year, at Flushing Meadows in September, and finish 2017 where he has spent so much time, as No1 in the world. Playing tennis every bit as good as when in his pomp, Federer might yet go on to match Nadal’s 10 French Open titles at the All England Club. He said before the final he feels no urge to retire and with his peers Andy Murray and Novak Djokovic showing distinct signs of frailty, he will very much fancy his chances.

Upcoming events in AUGUST include: 4-8: Cricket - England v South Africa, fourth Test, Old Trafford 4-13: Athletics - World Championships, London 8-11: Special Olympics GB National Games, Sheffield 10-13: Golf - US PGA Championship, Quail Hollow Club, Charlotte, North Carolina 12: Football - Premier League 2017/18 season due to start 17-21: Cricket - England v West Indies, first Test, Edgbaston (first day-night Test in England) 18-20: Golf - Solheim Cup, Des Moines, USA 26: Boxing - Floyd Mayweather v Conor McGregor, light-middleweight, Las Vegas, USA 27: Formula 1 - Belgian Grand Prix, SpaFrancorchamps 28 Aug-10 Sep: Tennis - US Open, Flushing Meadow, New York 30: Formula 1 - Hungarian Grand Prix, Budapest

Dartford Cricket Club – Match Day Sponsor

Do you have a business to promote? Dartford Cricket Club is one of the oldest clubs in England having been established in 1727 and has been playing cricket at Hesketh Park since 1904. We are now offering the opportunity to sponsor a Saturday home league game for a one off fee of just £50. We will announce your sponsorship on our Twitter, Facebook and website on the day of your choice and we will display your name or company around our pavilion. As a not for profit charitable organisation registered as a Community Amateur Sports Club any proceeds received will be applied towards our stated aim of investment in sporting facilities for the benefits of all within our local community. If you are interested please call 01322 225152 or email pavilion@dartfordcc.co.uk for more information

2017 HOME FIXTURES AT HESKETH PARK

6TH MAY- 12PM START- DARTFORD 2ND XI V HARTLEY C.C 13TH MAY- 12PM START- DARTFORD 1ST XI V BROMLEY C.C 20ST MAY- 12PM START- DARTFORD 1ST XI HAYES C.C 27TH MAY- 12PM START- DARTFORD 2ND XI V TENTERDEN C.C 3RD JUNE - 12PM START- DARTFORD 1ST XI V WHITSTABLE C.C 10TH JUNE - 12PM START- DARTFORD 2ND XI V TUNBRIDGE WELLS C.C 17TH JUNE - 12PM START- DARTFORD 2ND XI V BEXLEY C.C 24TH JUNE - 12PM START- DARTFORD 1ST XI V HSBC C.C 1ST JULY - 12PM START- DARTFORD 2ND XI V SEVENOAKS VINE C.C

8TH JULY - 12PM START- DARTFORD 1ST XI V CANTERBURY C.C 15TH JULY - 12PM START- DARTFORD 2ND XI V BECKENHAM C.C 22ND JULY - 12PM START- DARTFORD 2ND XI FOLKESTONE C.C 29TH JULY - 12PM START- DARTFORD 1ST XI MOTE C.C 5TH AUGUST - 12PM START- DARTFORD 2ND XI V WHITSTABLE C.C 12TH AUGUST - 12PM START- DARTFORD 1ST XI V BICKLEY PARK C.C 19TH AUGUST - 12PM START- DARTFORD 1ST XI V BROMLEY COMMON C.C 26TH AUGUST - 12PM START- DARTFORD 2ND XI V SANDWICH TOWN C.C 2nd SEPTEMBER - 12PM START- DARTFORD 1ST XI V LINDEN PARK C.C

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NEWS FROM PRINCES PARK Lyle Della Verde Signs

Dartford FC can confirm the signing of 22 year old midfielder Lyle Della Verde. Lyle started his youth career at Tottenham and Southend, before signing a professional contract at Fulham in 2012. He then played league football with Fleetwood and Crawley, before having spells last season with Welling and Concord. Tony Burman ” Lyle is a wide player who can play on both wings, he is a good footballer and at an age that I feel we can continue to improve him. I feel he will be a good addition to the squad” Supporters Open meeting 2nd August 2017 On Wednesday 2nd August, the club will be holding the next open meeting to give supporters the opportunity to find out more about what’s going on at Princes Park and Dartford FC. In attendance from the club will be Steve Irving ( Club co-chairman), Dave Skinner ( Club co-chairman), Tony Burman ( 1st team manager), Jack Smedley ( Operations Manager) , Elliot Bradbrook (1st team captain) and Deren Ibrahim (academy manager). It will provide a chance for supporters to ask any questions you may have. The meeting will start at 7.30pm in the Park Suite. We look forward to seeing you there. Mark Onyemah signs Dartford FC can confirm the signing of 21 year old defender Mark Onyemah.

Website: www.dartfordfc.com Mark rejoins the Darts having spent the 2015/2016 season here on loan from Luton Town. After leaving Luton, he spent last season at Concord Rangers and Thurrock, he played apart in Thurrock’s playoff winning promotion. Tony Burman ” I am delighted to have brought Mark back to sign for us on a permanent basis, he obviously fills the void for the left back position. Mark is a physical young 21 year old player who I feel is an excellent prospect and will have a chance here to show his true potential. I am going to look forward to the challenge of making him a better player.”

Warren Mfula Signs Dartford FC can confirm the signing of Warren Mfula. The 27 year old striker spent last season at Croydon Athletic where he netted 44 goals. Tony Burman” I have decided to add Warren Mfula to the squad. He has shown a go o d att i t i u d e and willingness to improve and after an excellent season last year at Croydon Athletic of scoring goals, I think I want to give him an opportunity to play at a higher level.”

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Dartford Living

DARTFORD FIXTURES 2017/18 August Sat 5th – Hungerford Town (Home) Tue 8th – Braintree Town ( Away) Sat 12th – Havant & Waterlooville (Away) Tue 15th – Concord Rangers ( Home) Sat 19th – Oxford City ( Home) Sat 26th – Hemel Hempstead Town (Away) Mon 28th – East Thurrock United ( Home) September Sat 2nd – Hampton & Richmond Boro (Away) Tue 5th – Whitehawk (Away) Sat 9th – Chippenham (Home) Tue 12th – Eastbourne Borough (Home) Sat 23rd – Weston-Super-Mare (Away) October Sat 7th – Bognor Regis (Home) Sat 14th – Bath City (Away) Sat 21st – Chelmsford City (Away) Sat 28th – St Albans City (Home) November Sat 4th – Wealdstone (Home) Sat 11th – Truro City (Away) Sat 18th – Gloucester City (Home)

Sat 17th – Wealdstone (Away) Sat 24th – Truro City (Home) March Sat 3rd – Gloucester City (Away) Sat 10th – Poole Town (Home) Sat 17th – Hemel Hempstead Town (Home) Sat 24th – Oxford City (Away) Sat 31st – Hampton & Richmond Boro (Home) April Mon 2nd – East Thurrock (Away) Sat 7th – Weston-Super-Mare (Home) Sat 14th – Eastbourne Borough (Away) Sat 21st – Bath City (Home) Sat 28th – Bognor Regis (Away) ADMISSION PRICES: Adult – £14.00 Concession (65+) – £7.00 Youth (13-17) – £5.00 Junior (5-12) – £2.00 Under 5’s - FREE

December Sat 2nd – Poole Town (Away) Sat 9th – Hungerford Town (Away) Sat 23rd – Braintree Town (Home) Tue 26th – Welling United (Away) January Mon 1st – Welling United (Home) Sat 6th – Concord Rangers (Away) Sat 13th – Havant & Waterlooville (Home) Sat 20th – Chippenham (Away) Sat 27th – Whitehawk (Home) February Sat 3rd – St Albans City (Away) Sat 10th – Chelmsford City (Home)

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Professional Training from Elite Industry Staff Outstanding full-time training at Reynolds Performing Arts College in Dartford Fully funded* 3 year Performing Arts Course in Dance and Musical Theatre from Sept 2017

What else is happening at Reynolds Training Academy? Fully funded* courses in Beauty Therapy and Fitness Instruction at Level 2 & 3 & Sports Massage at Level 3 *Subject to Eligibility

For further details: Tel: 01322 275807 Email: training@reynoldsgroup.co.uk

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

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Selling Fees Why pay more to sell your property?

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Wisdom Estates 76 Spital Street, Dartford, Kent DA1 2DT t: 01322 272 144 | e: sales@Wisdom-Estates.co.uk

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25/02/2016 15:23

We have been providing expert and trusted legal advice to individuals and businesses for generations. www.bussmurton.co.uk

T: 01322 220 235

DARTFORD | TUNBRIDGE WELLS | CRANBROOK | EAST GRINSTEAD

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Historical Military Themed Tours for Clubs, Groups and Societies 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 CHOICES – an independent specialist domestic abuse service WWI and WWII battlegrounds of Providing: Support, Prevention, Education, Signposting, Advice & Training Belgium and France from as little Head Office in Dartford but working across North & West Kent as £39 per person.

1/3 Off Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning

• Luxury Coach Travel • Local Collection Points

CHOICES

Gareth Johnson, Member of Parliament for Dartford, will be available to meet with constituents on the following dates:

• Call now for a free estimate Bluewater, DA9 9ST (4.00 pm – 7.00 pm - Appointment required) • Latest professional products used Friday 3 March April • All types and carpets Friday and21 suites cleaned Friday 19 May • Further 5% off for OAPs Friday 9 June Friday 28 July Dartford • Covering North KentFriday including 8 September • Please mention Dartford Living when calling

• The Services of an Expert Confidential Battlefield TourHelpline: Guide

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Your local independent specialist domestic abuse service For further details please contact • Channel Tunnel Crossings Providing: Support, Prevention, Education, Signposting, Steve Hookins Advice & (where applicable) Training

•Head Accommodation (B&Bbut working across Office in Dartford North & WestServices Kent Legacy Historical Ltd basis) (where applicable) Room 9, 145 Nathan Way, Thamesmead SE28 0AB www.choicesdaservice.org.uk

E: admin@choicesdaservice.org.uk

Telephone: 0208 311 5309 Mobile: Community outreach services and support groups07783 021508 Specialist support for LGBT community, male victims & young people Email: legacy@lewiscoaches.co.uk Preventative programmes in schools

Supported hostel for single homeless young people www.legacyhs.co.uk

Open Surgery – (no appointment necessary) Dartford Festival, Central Park, Dartford – Saturday 15th July

Call A Brighter Clean now on 01322 808744

@ChoicesDAS

If you would like to meet Gareth at one of his regular appointment based surgeries in the future, please contact him at gareth.johnson.mp@parliament.uk or telephone 020 7219 7047.

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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 • • • • •

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

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Dartford Living

Local Entertainment Theatre Roundup by Liz Dyer

It’s the summer holidays, and that can mean only one thing - it’s nearly time for the Summer Youth Project 2017 at the Orchard (10th-12th). This year our local kids have been working on classic rock musical Little Shop of Horrors, and if last summer’s brilliant Bugsy Malone is anything to go by, we can look forward to another great show. Break a leg to everyone involved! And there’s another opportunity for Dartford’s kids to make us proud in the English Youth Ballet’s Sleeping Beauty (25th-26th), which brings together eight international principal dancers and 100 young dancers from the local area. (Missed out this time? Keep an eye on englishyouthballet. co.uk for details of future auditions.) The Dartford open air theatre season comes to a close on 1st August with the return of Changeling Theatre, who are marking their 20th anniversary with a fantastic new production of Hamlet. Tickets are just £5 for Dartford residents, so don’t miss out! Later in the month, the Orchard plays host to Agatha Christie’s A Murder is Announced (15th-19th). Starring TV’s Louise Jameson - last seen at the Orchard in The Mousetrap - as Miss Marple, this tense thriller will no doubt have us on the edge of our seats… but can you figure out whodunnit? For younger audience members, we’ll have the Olivier Award-nominated The Tiger Who Came to Tea (21st-23rd), based on the beloved children’s book and fresh from a hit

run in the West End - and there’s comedy from Dartford favourite Joe Pasquale on the 20th. And seeing out the month is the ultimate feel-good musical, Hairspray (30th August-9th September), starring Matt Rixon, Norman Pace and Brenda Edwards. It’s a show that needs little introduction, with irresistible characters, toetapping tunes, an important message about not judging by appearances, and a finale guaranteed to have us all dancing into the night. And what about further afield? Bromley’s Churchill Theatre has their own Summer Youth Project to look forward to - in their case The Wizard of Oz (24th-26th). And if you missed The Wedding Singer in Dartford earlier this year, there’s another chance to catch it in Bromley on 1st-5th August. Meanwhile the Marlowe in Canterbury will this month be home to two unmissable shows - The Play That Goes Wrong (31st July-5th August), the original hilarious comedy from Mischief Theatre (creators of West End hits Peter Pan Goes Wrong and The Comedy About a Bank Robbery), and family classic The Railway Children (15th-19th), based on the popular novel by E Nesbit. Finally, it was announced last month that Louie Spence will be joined in the Dartford panto this Christmas by former Eastenders villain Michelle Collins. So if you haven’t booked yet… what are you waiting for?

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Fitness

Lifestyle changes to make you healthier Lifestyle changes to make you healthier If you want to improve your health, get fitter and stronger, and feel better, the best things you can do are the small things. Drastic and extreme workout regimes and impossible-tofollow diets aren’t going to get you what you want (for 99% of the population anyway!) It’s normally the smallest changes that slot into your daily life almost unnoticed that add up to the biggest changes. A good example is when someone changes jobs and the commute entails a longer walk than the previous workplace. The extra half a mile may only take 5 minutes more, but doing that twice a day, every day adds up and people see changes in their fitness and weight. Simple things! So, what are some simple, small changes you can make that will be easy to incorporate and will add up to a healthier you? Go to bed earlier – Many people don’t get enough sleep, or good quality sleep. Going to bed earlier can really help to keep you rested and fresh. Ideally we’d go to bed when the sun goes down, but for now, just aim for half an hour earlier than you usually do. Make a schedule – Make a weekly planner and schedule in your exercise times. Walking to work/school/nursery, a 20-minute home workout, go for a run (intervals ideally), go to Bootcamp… schedule it in and do your best to stick to it. If you get in late and can’t get to the gym – do a home workout. Don’t make excuses.

Celebrate your Wins – Most people drown themselves in guilt for hours or even days if they eat a bar of chocolate or down a bottle of wine. They stress about it and make a big deal out of it. But when they don’t eat the chocolate, they pay it no mind. This is backwards! If you have something you think you shouldn’t have, get over it! Right away! Move on and forget about it. It might not be ideal, but you can’t go back and change it so look forwards and do better next time. On the other side, when you do make a better choice, no matter how small it may be, congratulate yourself. Make a big deal out of it and pay attention to how good it feels. Celebrate every time you walk out of the shop without buying sweets or crisps (or whatever your food of choice may be). This will build momentum and etch into your memory that you can do it. If you get off the bus a stop early and walk the rest of the way – congratulate yourself! If you choose the water instead of the diet coke – congratulate yourself! If you do the workout you planned to do – HIGH FIVE! The point is: recognise your achievements no matter how small, and forget the things you did wrong; learn from them and then forget them. This is just the tip of the iceberg and there are almost unlimited tweaks and changes you can make to your lifestyle to move towards your goals. If you can start making just the smallest of changes for the better, there’s no need to stress about huge things that intimidate or worry you.

De-stress – stress is a huge cause of ill-health these days. If you have stress at work or home, if you train regularly, if you’re not sleeping well, if you’re worrying about things – you need to de-stress. Take 10 minutes daily (more if you can) to just sit and relax, somewhere quiet where you won’t be disturbed. You have a few options: you can just sit and relax and take your mind off things; you can put some relaxing music on; you can follow a guided meditation; meditate; go for a nice walk. Do whatever relaxes you. But make time for this!

If you’re not ready to join the gym yet, don’t waste your money (although it’s not as bad as you think). If the diet you’re looking at seems “too hard”, then it’s not right for you. Just make some small changes to everything else you do, and you’ll be heading in the right direction, and soon enough the gym will be more appealing and you might find a way of eating that works for you and you enjoy!

Choose the better option – When you’re deciding what to eat – choose the better option. Whether you’re making your own food, eating in a restaurant, or picking something up in the coffee shop, you have options. You don’t have to be eating 3 leaves for lunch, but if you have a choice of food, opt for the healthier one. The more often you do this, the easier it will get, and the “healthier” you will become. Be the “Healthy You”.

If you need help with nutrition and lifestyle changes, or want to start exercising go to www.DartfordBootcamps. com where you can read about my nutrition coaching program and my exercise classes in Dartford.

Make some small changes today and get started.

Dhiren’s Auto News August New Audi A8

The old A8 having been on sale since 2010, it’s now time for a change. This fourth-generation A8 is marginally longer and taller than the car it replaces, with more space between its front and rear axles. That equates to more space inside for both people and luggage - enough room for holiday suitcases or a couple of sets of golf clubs. At first a 282bhp 3.0-litre V6 diesel and a 335bhp 3.0-litre V6 petrol will be available with more to follow soon after. Every engine comes with an eight-speed automatic gearbox as standard. Audi will also add an electrified e-tron version of the A8L to its line-up using the 3.0-litre V6 petrol engine in combination with an electric motor. As well as the Virtual Cockpit digital instrument display that can be found in modern Audis, the new A8 also has two more screens – a 10.1in screen for controlling infotainment functions, and a curved 8.6in screen for climate controls. The new A8 will reach showrooms in October, and while official prices have yet to be confirmed is expected to start at just under £70,000. Vauxhall Grandland X

The Vauxhall Grandland X is the culmination of the brand’s recent SUV offensive, which has seen it update the Mokka

In this month’s article we’ll bring you new models to be launched later in 2017 with the a couple of new SUVs to rival a growing market.

and launch the new Crossland X. Its rivals includes the Peugeot 3008 and Nissan Qashqai. There will be two options: a turbocharged 1.2-litre petrol and a 1.6-litre diesel, both with either a six-speed manual gearbox or a six-speed automatic. There’s plenty of space for four inside the Grandland X, and a fifth person won’t be too uncomfortable because there’s no hump in the floor to get in the way of a central rear passenger’s feet. Something that is standard across the range is a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth, Apple Carplay and Android Auto functionality. The starting price will be for £22,310 and released in January 2018. 2018 Jaguar E-Pace

This is the new Jaguar E-Pace, sitting unsurprisingly below the F-Pace in the Jaguar line-up. The E-Pace has a bold, large grille like the F-Pace, the more upright all-LED front lights are more in the style of the F-Type giving the new SUV a look all its own. The cabin follows the F-Type theme. There’s a 360-degree grab handle for the passenger on the side of the centre console, just like in the F-Type, although the dash itself is more futuristic. It competitor in the market is likely to be the Audi Q3. Although the E-Pace is similar to the Audi Q3 in length, it offers Q5 space inside. The engine line up will include four-cylinder, 2.0-litre featuring manual or nine-speed auto gearboxes, with a choice of 150bhp, 180bhp and 240bhp output diesels, or a pair of petrol turbo engines with 249bhp or 300bhp. The car will launch early next year with a First Edition model that’ll sit towards the top of the range with plenty of kit on board and a price well above the entry-level two-wheel drive car’s £28,500 sticker.

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Gardening Hints and Tips - August Cuttings August is the best time to take cuttings from half-hardy bedding plants, such as fuchsias, pelargoniums, marguerites and trailing petunias, for overwintering. Once done, cover the pots with a polythene bag or place in a propagator and place somewhere warm and sheltered but out of strong, direct sunlight. Don’t forget to pick up everything you need for taking successful cuttings including pots, compost, dibbers, rooting hormone, labels and propagators. Ericaceous plants Rhododendrons, camellias and azaleas will be setting their flower buds for next year, so it’s important that they never go short of water at this time of year or the flower buds may fail next spring. Feeding will also produce more and better flowers. Mulching with bark or similar products will help maintain soil moisture levels and insulate the roots from damaging high temperatures. Furniture There’s still plenty of time to really enjoy your garden this summer. Make the most of it by investing in a new furniture set. Perhaps you need something with more chairs and a bigger table – or a large parasol to create extra shade? Or how about a swing seat or hammock to relax in? And remember to pick up any accessories you need – such as cushions, lights and care products. Lawn preparation for September September is the best time to sow a new lawn or lay turf, but it pays to prepare the area now. To beat perennial weeds, spray with a weedkiller. Once the old turf has been removed, work over the soil to a depth of 9 inches with a fork and spade, removing weed roots and large stones, and incorporating compost, lawn soil or composted bark. Rake and level the soil, walk over it to settle it, rake again and then leave it bare to allow weed seeds to germinate.

These can be sprayed or hoed off ready for sowing or turfing next month. Outdoor living Gardens are for enjoying – and the summer is the best time to do it. So make sure you sit back, relax and enjoy your garden this year from the comfort of your own garden furniture. Or entertain friends and family with a slap-up barbecue. And if you plan to stay out late, add some easy-to-install garden solar lights. We have everything you need and plenty of ideas to ensure you get the most enjoyment from your garden this summer – just ask, we’re here to help. Pest watch Pests and diseases thrive in hot weather, so check plants regularly for tell-tale signs. Mildews and red spider mite are always worse in warm, dry conditions and these can soon get out of control. Earwigs eat the leaves and flower buds of plants like clematis, dahlias and chrysanthemums, and even slugs and snails can be on the prowl at this time of year. If your plants have a problem, just ask one of our friendly staff to help you choose a suitable product to deal with it. Planning autumn planting Start planning that new bed or border. Look for plants with a long flowering period and those that have two or more seasons of interest with flowers, fruit, colourful stems and interesting foliage. Choose plants with different foliage colours and shapes, and remember that hile evergreens help bring structure and winter interest they may need livening up with deciduous plants. Use winter and spring bedding plants to increase the seasons of interest, and plant bulbs for extra splashes of colour. Planted Containers Keep your garden looking bright and colourful by adding some new containers planted ready for Autumn colour.

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Dartford Living

Where to go locally... Mondays

...local events, clubs & groups

Parent & Toddler Groups (Term Time)

£2.00 per one 9:15am - 11:00am - A&J Toddlers - St Anselms Church Community Centre, Dartford. small snack for adult and child and 50p for any extra children or adults each. Tea/coffee biscuits, of session Contact children with juice. Toast 20p per slice Craft table and singing and dancing at end Julie on 01322 291092. Tuesdays , Dartford. Contact Catherine on Session 1: 9.15-10.45am, and Session 2: 11-12.30pm. Christchurch, Crossroad 01322 220036. on (01322) 288434 for further 9.30am -11.30am. The Salvation Army, 66 Hythe Street, Dartford. Please call us n. informatio snack time for the children For 9.30am-11.30am Sticky Fingers - £1.50 per adult includes tea ,biscuits and healthy Greenhithe Contact 01322 382031 Road London Hall Church e Greenhith Mary St years 4 to up children school pre or see www.stmarygreenhithe.com

Wednesdays

on (01322) 288434 for further 9.30am -11.30am. The Salvation Army, 66 Hythe Street, Dartford. Please call us information. per family including all snacks and 10am -12pm - Little Angels Net Church, (Formerly Gala Bingo Hall) Dartford, £3 drinks. John 01322 272649. Road, Dartford, DA2 6JZ 12:45pm -2.45pm - Fleetdown Open House - Fleetdown Community Centre, Swaledale £2.50 per Adult

Thursdays

9:30am - 11:30am. St Paulinus Church Hall, Manor Road, Crayford. Child - £1 Non Walkers 9.30am-11am Toerags Toddler Group - Adult education centre, Dartford £3 per facebook.com/ToeRags Child - £1 Non Walkers - facebook. 1pm-2.30pm Toerags Toddler Group - Adult education centre, Dartford £3 per com/ToeRags

Fridays

up to 2. £1 per adult 9.30am-11am Baby and me for expectant mothers and mothers / carers of chidrenor see St Mary Greenhithe Church Hall, London Road Greenhithe. Contact 01322 382031 www.stmarygreenhithe.com Child - £1 Non Walkers 9.30am-11am Toerags Toddler Group - Adult education centre, Dartford £3 per gs facebook.com/ToeRa Greenhithe. Jeanne 01322 9.30am-11.30am Carer & Toddler Group, St Mary’s Church Hall, Stone Place Rd, oo.co.uk dley@yah 380322 jeannehoa 1-3pm Gigglekidz, Tree Estate Community Centre on Cedar Road - £2 Per Child

Saturdays

up to 5years. £1.50 includes 9.30am-11.30am Daddy and Me - A group for dads and male carers of children Greenhithe. Contact 01322 Road London Hall, Church e Greenhith Mary St children. the for time snack healthy 382031 or see www.stmarygreenhithe.com

Dartford Libraries District Community Fun Days 2017

Toddler Music & Rhyme Sessions

Ashen Drive Dartford Fleetdown Greenhithe Longfield Summerhouse Drive Sutton-at-Hone Swan Valley Temple Hill

Monday Friday Thursday Story Time Fleetdown - Tuesday Greenhithe - Thursday Longfield - Thursday Summerhouse - Tuesday Sutton-at-Hone -Monday. Temple Hill - Thursday

Monday Saturday Thursday Thursday Thursday Thursday Friday Friday Tuesday

31ST July 2.30-4.30pm 15th July 10am-4pm 20th July 10.30am-3.30pm 27th July 2-4pm 17th August 10am-12 noon 3rd August 11am-1pm 25TH August 10am – 4pm 4th August 2-4pm 1st August 2-4pm

Come along to our Community Fun Days, enjoy craft activities, meet our Community Partners, join the Summer Reading Challenge and find out what’s happening. We hope to see you in the Library soon. www.kent.gov.uk/libs Telephone 03000 41 31 31

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

Come along and join in the fun! Term time only For more information please call 03000 41 31 31

Where to go locally... The North West Kent Branch of the Motor Neurone Disease Association meets at 8pm on the

4th Wednesday evening of each month in the Pop-In 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.

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.

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 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. 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

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

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. 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. The Dartford Stroke Group is starting chair-based excise classes on Monday afternoons at the YMCA Roundhouse at 2.30pm on 19th September, 3rd October, 17th October, 7th November, 21st November, 5th December and 19th December. This is as well as the regular meetings of the Stroke Group at the Meeting Place on the second and fourth Mondays of each month. Please contact Theo at Theo.Hodges@gmail.com or phone/text Theo on 078 755 68 296 to get the current dates for our events and for more information

Age UK, Crayford library Pop in Parlour coffee morning every Friday morning 10.30 - 12.30 Tea, Coffee, Biscuits and a chat - Just £1

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

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

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Would you like to promote a local activity on the “Where to go locally...” page? If so, email your suggestions to editor@dartfordliving.com DARTFORD BRIDGE CLUB

Dartford Books and

Culture Club meets every Tuesday evening at 7.00 pm at meets once a month Wilmington Christian Fellowship Church Hall, on Saturday mornings Broad Lane, Wilmington DA2 7AQ. at Dartford Library. For We are seeking new members at all levels to play more information, find Duplicate Bridge -cost £2 per session. us at www.meetup. com/West-Kent-BookEnquiries: contact Club/ 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-Bexleyheath-surroundingareas-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.

Dartford Stroke Group is aimed at Stroke Survivors, their families and carers. It meets at the Meeting Place in the Orchard Shopping Centre, Dartford for a chat, support, excise classes, outings and speakers. Please contact Theo at Theo.Hodges@ gmail.com or phone/text Theo on 078 755 68 296 to get the current dates for our events and for more information.

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

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

GUITARS IN THE SHADOWS – JOIN IN MUSIC BY THE SHADOWS TO 60S TO ROCK N ROLL Meet at Dartford Working Mens Club (Essex Road) at 7.30pm on the fourth Thursday of the month. Membership is free but we do ask for a small contribution to costs on the night. Call Ray on 07813 540131 or email guitarsinshadows@hotmail.com

COLUMBINE CHINA PAINTERS CLUB

meets on the 1st and 3rd Thursday each month 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.

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

The Dartford Chess Club

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

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Where to go locally... Mummy On The Mend

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

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!! https://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.

TUESDAY 2.00 - 3.00PM (TERM TIME ONLY) Fleetdown Library Everybody welcome, join us for a friendly chat and light refreshments.

SCRAPPY DAYS! A SCRAPBOOKING GROUP

is being held at Hawley Pavilion, Hawley Road, 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!

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

A support group for parents affected by pre and post natal depression Mondays - 10-11.30am St Peters Church, Pickford Lane, Bexleyheath Kent DA7 4RW Wednesdays (starting 26th April) 9.30-11.30 Tree Estate community hall Tree Estate Dartford Kent DA1 2RG Fridays 12-2pm St Mary’s Church Hall Greenhithe - Mount’s road, Greenhithe Kent DA9 9ND Email mummyonthemend15@gmail.com for more details.

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

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

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Dartford Active Retirement Group,[ DARTARA,] We are a group that meets on second Thursday once a month 2 - 4pm at Fleetdown community 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

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

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

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

MALE? AGED 18 - 44?

WANT TO HAVE FUN AND DO SOMETHING WORTHWHILE WITH YOUR SPARE TIME? We’ve arrived in Dartford and we are a NEW Round Table Get involved, you WILL enjoy it! www.dartfordroundtable.co.uk

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, Jean Monk 01322 557142

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.

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Where to go locally... 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

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.

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 http://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 Every Saturday morning at Becket Sport Centre. Kids start at 9am, adults at 11am. Just turn up, first lesson free or visit www.facebook.com/yamatodamashiimartialarts [1] for more info.

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

Tuesday Morning Yoga Class at Sutton Court, Sutton-AtHone 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.

The Highly Strung Badminton Club, a friendly, all ages (must be over 18years old) & all abilities(sorry no beginners) Thursdays at 745-945pm,at the Dartford Girls Grammar School sports hall Shepherds Lane,Dartford,Kent,DA1 2NT For further information email Stephanie.thredgle@btinternet.com

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MUSIC UMBRELLA

Classes for under-fives teaching the basic elements of music through whole body movement, using the Dalcroze and Kodaly methods. With action songs and games, using percussion instruments and props like hoops, balls and soft toys, the children develop musical, physical and social awareness, concentration, co-ordination and confidence - and have lots of fun! Becket Sports Centre, Thursdays during term time: babies and toddlers: 9.15 till 9.55; 3 and 4 year-olds: 10.00 till 10.40 Contact Myrtle : 07763 378451 Email : myrtlebm@hotmail.co.uk

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 ÂŁ6.95 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

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 Interested advertising? Tel: 01322 507817 www.dartfordliving.com ininadvertising? 01322 507817 www.dartfordliving.com InterestedInterested in advertising? Tel: 01322 Tel: 507817 www.dartfordliving.com Dartford Living

11 15 55

COMPETITION SPIRIT OF THE DANCE MON 11 - SAT 16 SEPT Dartford Living and The Orchard Theatre have teamed up to offer a pair of tickets to this show, To be in with a chance of winning this fantastic prize just answer the following question...

WHAT TYPE OF DANCING IS SPIRIT OF THE DANCE BASED ON? A) Ballroom B) Latin C) Folk D) Irish email your answer to competition@dartfordliving.com This competition closes on 15th August. 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.

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

Affix Windows..............................................................30 Claremont Decorative Services..................................39 Nightingale Bathrooms................................................11 Steve Cook - Double Glazing.......................................23 CAKE MAKING Rock and Rise.......................................................41 CONVENIENCE STORE S3 ................................................................................22 COSMETIC, BEAUTY & HEALTH Dia Wipes................................................................7 COUNCIL Dartford Borough Council ...........................................31 EDUCATION Kip McGrath.. ...................................................13 ELECTRICIANS AES Electricians.. ....................................................4 ESTATE/ LETTING AGENTS GPS Lettings............................................................7 Fox Estates ..................................................................15 Virotti................................................................27 Wisdom Estates...........................................................39 FARM SHOP/ PICK YOUR OWN Stanhill Farm...............................................................33 FUNERAL SERVICES Stephen P Gay Funeral Services..............................22 GARAGES & VEHICLE SERVICES Orchard Garage...........................................................60 Shenley Road Garage...................................................42 HOTELS Campanile...................................................................4 JEWELLERY Bradleys..................................................................23 LAW Apex Law.......................................................................6 LOGISTICS/ REMOVALS FD TRANSPORT ...................................................42

NURSERY The Brent Playgroup.............................................5 MP Gareth Johnson....................................................2 MEDICAL HERE2CARE..........................................................29 Ifield Therepy......................................................33 MUSIC/DANCE & FITNESS Worried about your childs weight?.............................21 Dartford Bootcamps.....................................................30 Fairfield Leisure Centre...............................................36 Monkey Music............................................................49 Reynolds.....................................................38 Why Weight?...............................................................20 Vibe...............................................................28 OPTICIANS Linklater Opticians.. ...............................................40 PICTURE FRAMING Craft Frames.............................................................42 RESTURANT Kent Curry....................................................................19 SECURITY Excel Security......................... ..............................43 SPORTS Fairfield Leisure Centre................................................37 TRAVEL Travel Counsellors................................................29 WILL WRITING SMN Will Writing .....................................................22

Advertise in the magazine for as little as Â£30 per month Contact:sales@dartfordliving.com

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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

Useful Numbers 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: 0208 301 1010

Dartford Ju Jitsu Club Mondays, Dartford Girls Grammar School, Shepherds Lane. 6.30-8.00 Juniors, 8.00-10.00 Seniors www. dartfordjujitsu.co.uk

LOCAL MP Gareth Johnson 020 7219 7047

USEFUL FACEBOOK GROUPS

LOCAL SPORTS CLUBS Bexley Rugby Club 01322 550142 or www.pitchero.com/clubs/ bexleyrfc/

Dartford Living Dartford Today and Tomorrow Dartford Remembered Dartford Gossip Love Dartford

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- PRINCES PARK GOLF CLUB. 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/

Dartford Ladies Hockey Club Dawn Hall (Secretary) 07793 777250

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MOT - SERVICING - REPAIRS - CAR SALES DIAGNOSTICS - EXHAUSTS - AIRCON - TYRES

01322 271000    

Local, established, independent garage Customer courtesy cars Wide range of used cars in stock Used Car Finance available

Car MOT Test £30

Bike MOT Test £25

See our independent feedback at: www.goodgaragescheme.com and www.trustedtraders.which.co.uk

Supporting the British Heart Foundation & Dartford Cricket Club

mail@orchardgarageltd.co.uk

www.orchardgarageltd.co.uk

128 Park Road, Dartford, DA1 1SZ