WHEELCHAIR RUGBY WITH THE ARGONAUTS

THE ARGONAUTS

By Peter Johnston - Chairman. Photos Pete Bresser

Founded five years ago, The Argonauts Wheelchair Sports Charity’s aim is to provide wheelchair sports for people of all abilities and all ages, mixed in together on a “level playing-field”. It is unusual for a sport to bring together disabled and able-bodied people, united in a single squad. For the able-bodied people, it gives them an insight to the struggles and difficulties faced by disabled people.

The charity is focused on providing teamwork, friendship, physical fitness, increased mobility, improvement of mental health, competitive sport and an active social life. The benefits are enormous and, for some players, it has literally been life-saving. They have players from around Kent, Essex and Cambridge.

At the recent publicity-drive The Mayor of Dartford, Cllr Paul Cutler, was very keen to have a go at Wheelchair Rugby. He was given tips by the Coach, Rob Cooper, then got stuck in! The Mayor said: “I thoroughly enjoyed meeting everyone at The Argonauts and getting to grips with wheelchair rugby. I really appreciate how the charity is teaching able-bodied people like me, who has never used a wheelchair, about the kinds of difficulties people who are less mobile face on a daily basis. The friendship and team spirit was very visible and I had a great evening getting to know everyone at the club.”

The Argonauts have achieved amazing things in its primary sport, Wheelchair Rugby League: nine home-grown Elite International players (six for England, two for Ireland and one for Wales) and runners-up in the National League and Cup finals. The development squad players, known as The Demigods, have competed every season in the national league and have show themselves to be real contenders for titles. Peter Johnston, Chairman, said “We have a strong team dynamic, with everyone being very welcoming to new players. We are hoping that more people will join us and we can grow as a team this year. The sport is a wonderful way to socialise with people within the community, be it at training sessions, playing matches, or as a spectator. We are a really friendly group, and look forward to welcoming anyone interested in taking part. ”.

Their England players have now moved to a newly-formed Super League club in London to further their techniques and skills. This means that The Argonauts are now looking for new players and they are inviting anyone to go along to a training session to see the action for themselves. Training sessions are on every Monday, from 6:30pm in the sports hall of Fairfield Leisure Centre, Lowfield Street, Dartford. Members can also have occasional taster sessions for other wheelchair sports, such as basketball and boxing.

Jeremy Kite, Leader of DBC has this to say about The Argonauts, ““It’s wonderful to see The Argonauts go from strength to strength . Wheelchair rugby is one of those sports where everyone can compete. Fast moving and great fun. It’s a perfect way to enjoy rugby and it would be great to see more players of all abilities get involved”

The specialist wheelchairs and equipment are all expensive items but The Argonauts have received very generous donations from Wooden Spoon Kent (the rugby charity), Dartford Lions Club, Northfleet & Ebbsfleet Lions Club and Dartford Borough Council. Everything is in place for the charity to welcome new players and the future looks bright, as The Argonauts’ search for The Golden Fleece continues! Novak Djokovic underlined his recent dominance at Wimbledon with a composed and controlled fightback against Nick Kyrgios to win a fourth consecutive men’s singles title. Djokovic lost the first set after some superb serving from Kyrgios but ended up winning 4-6 6-3 6-4 7-6 (7-3) on Centre Court. It is Djokovic’s seventh SW19 men’s title and only Roger Federer has more. Victory also moved him one behind Rafael Nadal’s record 22 men’s majors. Losing his winning position irritated Kyrgios, who is known for his fiery temperament as well as his exciting tennis. While Kyrgios increasingly remonstrated with his support team, Djokovic remained cool in the heat of the battle on a scorching Centre Court.

Sporting events in August include:

28 July- 8 August: Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games, BIRMINGHAM, ENGLAND

11-21 August - Olympic sports - European Championships, Munich

29 August – 11 Sep – Tennis - US Open, New York

Rock Painting in Dartford.

ocal people from Dartford Painted Rocks on Facebook have been busy this month painting nd hiding them around town. The rocks can also be exchanged at Stephen Oliver: Studio and allery located in the Orchard Shopping Centre.

ere are some great photos of their painted rocks.

By Maria Kingsford

Local people from ‘Dartford painted rocks’ on Facebook have been busy this month painting and hiding them around the town. The rocks can be exchanged at Stephen Oliver: Studio and Gallery located at the Orchards Shopping Centre .

Here are some of the photos of their latest painted rocks.

BREASTFEEDING

By Dr Julie Taylor

If you can breastfeed your baby, this will give them everything they need for the first 6 months of life, and can be continued after 6 months along with solid foods. Benefits of breastfeeding include: • Complete nutritional needs for your baby • Protects your baby from infections and diseases including sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS, cot death), obesity and cardiovascular disease in adults • Has health benefits for you – lowers risk of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease and obesity • It is the ultimate ‘fast food’ – there when your baby needs it

In the first few days, it will take time for both you and your baby to get the hang of breastfeeding. Skin to skin contact straight after birth can be a good time to try your first breastfeed. Your midwife can help with positioning and attachment. You can also pick up useful advice during your antenatal classes and from your midwife and health visitor, as well as other support groups, friends and family.

The first milk you produce, colostrum, is usually a thick yellow-golden colour. It is very concentrated, so babies only need a very small amount at each feed. They will often feed frequently for the first few days, possibly every hour. Don’t worry, after the first few days, they will feed for longer and less frequently. As a rough guide, they will feed 8-12 times per day during the first few weeks.

The general advice is to feed your baby when they appear hungry. They might get restless, suck their fist or fingers, make murmuring sounds or start to root. You can’t overfeed a breastfed baby and it’s easier to feed at these early signs than when they start crying.

Problems with breastfeeding • Leaky breasts – if your baby hasn’t fed recently, you can offer them a feed or you can express just enough to make you feel comfortable. Breast pads help to soak up the milk. • Sore or cracked nipples – can be because the baby is not positioned or attaching correctly, and can sometimes be due to thrush. See your heath visitor or midwife for advice. • If your baby does not seem satisfied after feeds, they may not be latching on properly. It is unusual for mums to not produce enough milk – try feeding from both breasts at each feed and alternating which you start with to stimulate production. • Breast engorgement occurs when the breasts are too full of milk – hand express a small amount so you feel comfortable. • Blocked milk ducts can cause small tender breast lumps. To relieve this feed your baby with their chin pointing towards the lump. If your breast becomes hot and red, or you feel unwell, please seek help as you may have developed mastitis. If you have a breast lump that persists, please see your GP.

Bottle feeding Although breast feeding is highly recommended, some women can’t breast feed for a number of reasons. These women should not feel guilty as ‘fed is best’.

To bottle feed, you will need several bottles and teats, a bottle brush and sterilising equipment to clean them. You will need to sterilise bottles and teats until your baby is 12 months old. If you are using formula, make it up exactly as instructed. Do not use heaped scoops or water it down, or add cereals or sugars to the feed.

Bottle feeding problems • Being unsettled after feeding may indicate your baby has trapped wind. Hold them upright on

your shoulder or forward on your lap and gently rub their back until they burp. Make sure you have a muslin handy for any milk that may come up. • Some babies are a little sick after feeds. This may be because they have taken their milk too quickly, or taken too much for their tiny stomach. They may also have reflux. If they are not gaining weight, are violently sick or seem in pain speak to your health visitor or GP. • Some babies have allergies to certain types of milk. There are special formulas for babies who have cows milk protein allergy or other dietary needs, or if you are breast feeding, you may need to follow an exclusion diet.

Please speak to your health visitor or GP if you are concerned.

DR JULIE TAYLOR IS A GP PARTNER AT THE WELLCOME PRACTICE DARTFORD, CLINICAL DIRECTOR OF DARTFORD MODEL PCN AND A BOARD MEMBER OF THE DARTFORD, SWANLEY AND GRAVESHAM INTEGRATED CARE PARTNERSHIP.

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GET READY FOR THE GADGETEERS, AS THE SUMMER READING CHALLENGE 2022 COMES TO KENT LIBRARIES!

Get ready for the Gadgeteers, as the Summer Reading Challenge 2022 comes to Kent libraries! Kent libraries is excited to introduce Gadgeteers, Summer Reading Challenge 2022; join the Gadgeteers to discover the amazing science and innovation behind the world around you, including some of your favourite things!

Running from 9 July – 10 September 2022, children can choose to sign up and participate in the Summer Reading Challenge either by visiting a Kent Library to claim their joining pack, or by visiting summerreadingchallenge.org.uk to take part online.

Meet the Gadgeteers – Aisha, Eddie, Leo, Maggie, James & Ajay and discover their special skills.

Children can find out more about the Gadgeteers and their special skills by signing up to the Summer Reading Challenge and reading six library books over the summer period. They can read anything from the library, including stories, information books, audiobooks, eBooks, eAudiobooks, eMagazines and more. When they have read their six books and completed the Summer Reading Challenge, they will receive a medal and certificate (while stocks last). And it’s all for free! the pandemic and its impact on children and their families, the Summer Reading Challenge 2022 is more important than ever in supporting children with their learning, reading skills and so much more. The Gadgeteers celebrate adventure, friendship, reading and fun while helping children to discover science all around them.

Nearly 12,000 children took part in Wild World Heroes in 2021, either by visiting a library or by signing up online. Help us to make this year bigger and better by taking part.

• My children are special needs with ADHD and Dyslexia and both are below their reading age. But reading challenges help them read books they wouldn’t at school • The children enjoyed the reading challenge, encouraged them to read together and collect their prize. It has taught them to read to each other and listen to the stories (Feedback from Parents in 2021)

The Summer Reading Challenge is presented by The Reading Agency, delivered in partnership with libraries.

Find out more at your local library, visit bit.ly/Gadgeteers2022, our dedicated Summer Reading Challenge page or follow Kent Libraries social media pages – Facebook, Twitter and YouTube to find out more about the Gadgeteers and all the exciting events and activities happening this summer in Kent Libraries.

In this month’s article we look at the growing range of electric models becoming available to all in the next few years.

MG 4 electric car – this is the new small hatchback electric car from MG – the MG 4 hatchback. It pairs a single 167bhp electric motor with a 51kWh battery that offers an official range of 218 miles in entry-level form. A more powerful will be offered to give a range of up to 281 miles. The 51kWh model can charge at rates of up to 100kW, meaning that a 10-80% charge should take around half an hour if you can find a suitably powerful charging point. Inside, the MG 4 gets a sleek central infotainment touchscreen that rests on the dashboard, along with a digital instrument panel behind the steering wheel with good features such as smartphone mirroring. Available from this September the MG 4 is expected to start at around £20,000, far less than rivals.

2023 Honda CR-V – this is the All-new Honda CR-V to offer hybrid power, lots of kit and a bigger boot at a competitive price. The new version will offer more power like the 2.0-litre petrol engine with the electric motor to produce 201hbp – 20bhp more than the outgoing. The CR-V is a hybrid you do not need to plug in which is of convienience but means you can’t go as far or as fast on electric power. Standard safety kit includes lane-keeping assistance, blindspot monitoring and traffic-sign recognition. Meanwhile, inside the car you’ll find a 7.0in digital instrument display and either a 7.0in or 9.0in infotainment touchscreen. The extra space in the new CR-V comes from the fact it’s slightly longer and wider than the outgoing model – which means it has more leg room and boot space. The exterior has sharper lines than the outgoing CR-V, along with narrower LED headlights and a large front grille. On sale in 2023 prices are expected to start from around £35,000.

2022 Citroën e-C4 X electric car – New Citroën e-C4 X electric car reworks coupé SUV sibling into saloon with big boot and extended range capabilities. The e-C4 X stretches the Citroën e-C4 coupé SUV’s underpinnings into a capacious saloon with a new reworked rear end styling. This allows for more boot space – from 380-litre capacity to 510 litres – enough for 7 carry-on suitcases. The new rear also allows for increased official range for the car by seven miles – up to 224 miles. The electric motor remains the same with a 134bhp motor and a 50kWh battery, which can charge up to 80% in 30 minutes with a suitable powerful public charger. On the inside, you get the regular e-C4’s headup display and digital instruments, plus its 10.0in infotainment touchscreen. Pricing for the e-C4 X is expected to start from £31,000 when it comes on sale later in 2022.

HERE, CHER AND EVERYWHERE

A bundle of zesty energy, Oti Mabuse may be on a rare day off when we meet but she’s still operating at warp speed. But then the double Strictly Glitterball champion has good reason to be so happy and animated. Currently revving up for the hotly anticipated brand new production of The Cher Show, directed by national dance treasure Arlene Phillips and with a book by Tony and Olivier Award-winning Rick Elice (of Jersey Boys fame), Oti will be choreographing the show, which will tour until April 2023. Telling the story of the Armenian American truck driver’s shy daughter who rose to global stardom, The Cher Show charts superstar Cher’s meteoric rise to fame. And of course there is a cracking soundtrack. Packed with 35 of her biggest hits, it’s part show and part party. “It’s the story that so many women connect with, but it’s also the songs and the clothes. It will be epic!” beams Oti, adding: “It has to be bigger than anything because it’s her; it has to live up to Cher’s iconic status. She has been such an inspiration to so many people and this musical And so it’s down to Oti to weave that star quality into the choreography - a challenge that she is absolutely thrilled with. “What I love about choreography is that, when I’m dancing, I am only part of the picture, but when you are choreographing, there are so many elements that are so exciting. Creating a storyline through dance means you go through the smallest details - is there a connection or a secret between the dancers that we need the audience to share? What props are there? What is the dancer at the back of the stage doing?” As for the music, Oti’s exuberance ratchets up yet another notch when we start talking about Cher’s hits.

“I grew up with a family that always listened to music and we all loved Cher’s music. Her songs have stories behind them and I LOVE choreography that has a story behind it! It has an intention you can then give to the movement. It makes everyone in the theatre part of the story. And everyone connects to Cher’s music because it is timeless. SHE is timeless! The show starts from the beginning of her life and comes to present day, so if you don’t know Cher’s story you will learn it. There are so many great songs that will make people feel uplifted too. And the show is going to almost every theatre in the country because Cher is an international phenomenon!” But while she won’t be on the road with The Cher Show, Oti will be touring with her own dance production, I Am Here. “This is very exciting because it’s my first official tour. It’s such an honour. It’s going to be loud, funny and truthful, and people will meet the real me. We have a live band, great music and a cast of great dancers. I love touring and the audiences make it for me. People have paid to come and be entertained and it’s lovely to do that; to create a memorable moment in their lives.”

And, it seems, Oti relishes the educational aspect of touring life.

TUE 30 AUGUST

WED 31 AUGUST WED 31 AUGUST

THU 1 SEPTEMBER FRI 26 - SUN 28 AUGUST

“I love learning and when you tour in the UK you learn crazy things like whether you put cream or jam on a scone first! I love hearing the different accents and the different way people greet each other depending where you are.” With an infectious chuckle she adds: “I think touring is the best way to understand human beings!” “All the theatres my shows are visiting are so supportive of people who come to put a show on; they are so welcoming and so, so hard working. After lockdown and the terrible time that theatres had, it is so lovely to be taking The Cher Show and Here I Am on tour.”

But even with two stage shows hitting the road, human dynamo Oti is still thinking ahead. “I have a lot of things that I want to achieve in life and I am lucky that my parents raised me to be driven and ambitious. But my goals come from a good place and I really enjoy the journey of pursuing my dreams. Anyone who hires me knows that I will be the hardest working person in the place. For instance, there were very few books about dancing for children, so I wrote one.” And that’s by no means all. Born in South Africa in 1990, Oti has been dancing since childhood. From making a name for herself in South Africa as the undefeated eight-time South African Latin American champion, she also managed to train as a Civil Engineer while competing in dance competitions. Winning awards and championships across Europe, TV soon beckoned and Oti joined the German version of Strictly Come Dancing. After two successful seasons, she joined the original BBC version of the show. Winning the coveted trophy in 2019 with actor Kelvin Fletcher, the following year Oti became the first Strictly Pro ever to win the Glitterball two consecutive years, alongside her partner Bill Bailey. TV and theatre work continues to flood in, which she juggles with running The Oti Mabuse Dance Studio, but, I ask, was performing always the dream? “I wanted to go into Musical Theatre straight from High School, but my mum said I should be first academic and then pursue my passions. Since she was paying the bills, I didn’t have much choice!” Reflective for a moment, she adds: “Engineering and dance are both about problem solving and precision and I love them both equally. I’d love to do a TV show about it.”

A TV show about engineering told through the medium of dance? If anyone can pull that off then it’s Oti. Stand by for the Reinforced Concrete Rumba…

The Cher Show is at The Orchard Theatre Tue 20 - Sat 24 September.

COMPETITION

The Take That Experience SUN 18 SEPTEMBER 2022 | 7.30PM

As Take That celebrate 30 years as the UK’s number one boy band, The Take That Experience marks over a decade together as the ultimate tribute act with their best show yet!

Wowing audiences everywhere they go with their amazing vocals, replica costumes and electrifying dance routines, they continue to successfully recreate the magic of Take That with the ‘Greatest Hits Tour’.

What city are Take That from? 1. Liverpool 2. Manchester 3. London

Email competition@dartfordliving.com by the 20th August to be in with a chance of winning.

CHEESE AND BLACK PEPPER SCONES

By Debbie Dickinson

These delicious treats are a lot easier than you think - taking less than 10 mins to prepare and just 10 mins to bake!! This mix will make about 13 small scones. The real secret to fabulous scones is to not ‘overmix’ – just do enough and no more!

What you need: 300g Self Raising Flour 70g Unsalted Butter 160g Cheddar Cheese – I love a strong, Extra Mature cheese, plus a little for grating on top. 150ml Milk ½ tsp freshly ground Black Pepper Optional flavours to add – herbs/spices/ mustard powder/seeds/cooked chopped chorizo/bacon? What to do:

Preheat your oven to 200° C Fan oven. Combine the Self-Raising Flour with a pinch of Salt and rub in the Unsalted Butter using just your fingertips. If you grate the butter or cut into tiny cubes, it is much easier. You will end up with a fine breadcrumb texture.

Stir in the Cheese and the Black Pepper. Slowly mix in the milk until the mix just comes together as a dough. Add any additional flavours now. Tip on to a lightly floured work surface and gently press the mixture until it becomes flat and about 2cm thick.

Use cutters to cut out your scones – I prefer quite small round cutters. Squeeze any leftover dough back together, flatten again, and cut out more scones until all the dough has been used. Make sure you don’t handle the dough too much – this is when they will become tough and won’t rise much! Pop the scones on greaseproof paper on a baking tray. Brush the top of the scones with a little milk or beaten egg and sprinkle over a little finely grated cheese. Bake in the hot oven for approx. 10 minutes until golden brown and the scones have risen nicely. The scones can be eaten warm or left to cool completely. We like to pull them in half and serve with butter and a few pickles on the side. Enjoy!!

PARENT AND TODDLER GROUPS - TERM TIME ONLY

MONDAYS 9:15am - 11:30am - A&J Toddlers - St Anselms Church Community Centre, Dartford. £2.50 per one adult and child and 50p for any extra children or adults each. Tea/coffee biscuits, small snack for children with juice. Craft table and singing and dancing at end of session Contact Julie on 07917 843592.

TUESDAYS Session 1: 9.15-10.45am, and Session 2: 11-12.30pm. Christchurch, Crossroad, Dartford. Contact Catherine on 01322 220036.

9.30am-11.30am Sticky Fingers - £1.50 per adult includes tea ,biscuits and healthy snack time for the children For pre school children up to 4 years St Mary Greenhithe Church Hall London Road Greenhithe Contact 01322 382031 or see www.stmarygreenhithe.com

9:30-10:30am Music and Rhyme Time at Fleetdown Utd FC (near Dunelm). £5 per session if you sign up for the term, siblings go free. Contact Katie on 07734661352 or Facebook.com/musicandrhymetime

10.30 - 11.00am. “Baby Bounce & Rhyme” at Fleetdown Library. Music and fun for babies and pre-schoolers. No charge. Term time only. All are welcome - just turn up!

WEDNESDAYS 1pm -2.45pm - Fleetdown Open House - Fleetdown Community Centre, Swaledale Road, Dartford, DA2 6JZ - £3.50 per Adult - £1 Siblings Bottomless refreshments.

THURSDAYS 10:30-11:30am, Music and Rhyme Time at Fleetdown Utd FC (near Dunelm). £5 per session if you sign up for the term, siblings go free. Contact Katie on 07734661352 or Facebook.com/musicandrhymetime

FRIDAYS 9.30am-11am Toerags Toddler Group - Adult education centre, Dartford £3 per Child - £1 Non Walkers - facebook.com/ToeRags 9.30am-11.30am Carer & Toddler Group, St Mary’s Church Hall, Stone Place Rd, Greenhithe. Jeanne 01322 380322 jeannehoadley@yahoo.co.uk Mummy’s Linkup: 10am – 2pm on the 2nd Friday of each month, Tree Community Centre Mummy’s Linkup : 10am – 12noon on the 4th Friday of each month., Temple Hill Community Centre

SATURDAYS 2-3pm - Lego Club- ages 5 and over - Chrome Road Slade Green DA8 2EL Tel: 01322 333602

BABYBALLERS

Themed Football and multi skills sessions are suitable for girls and boys aged 16 months to 5 years old. Your little superstar will learn shapes, colours, numbers and lots, lots, more all through playing the BabyBallers way!

Classes in Dartford, Northfleet, Gravesend and Ebbsfleet on Fridays and weekends. Please visit https://babyballers1.class4kids.co.uk/ or email matt@babyballers.com

LOCAL CLUBS AND ASSOCIATIONS IN AND AROUND DARTFORD - DUE TO COVID PLEASE CHECK WITH ORGANISER TO MAKE SURE THE CLUBS ARE STILL OPERATING

THE NORTH WEST KENT BRANCH OF THE MOTOR NEURONE DISEASE ASSOCIATIONmeets on various date at Birchwood Country Club For more information contact Alexon 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 837172 or 07570 347612

AGE UK, CRAYFORD LIBRARY POP IN PARLOUR COFFEE MORNINGevery 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. Dartford: 2nd Wednesday of each month, Mick Jagger Centre, 7 -9pm. Information support workers available, guest speakers and quizzes. Contact Wendy Leach. Tel: 02083065973 THE WELLBEING LINK The Wellbeing Link meets on Friday mornings from 10-1pm in the St. Anselm’s Parish Centre, 89 West Hill, Dartford A friendly and informative group is a support group for people with any life affecting health issues from loneliness and isolation to life limiting conditions. - call Julie On 07775875585

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

20S 30S DARTFORD BEXLEYHEATH SURROUNDING AREAS SOCIAL GROUP more information visit: www.meetup.com/20s-30s-DartfordBexleyheath-surrounding-areas-social-group/ DARTFORD U3A (UNIVERSITY OF THE THIRD AGE) meets on the first Tuesday of every month (except August) at St Anselm’s Church Hall, West Hill, Dartford at 2pm, For information about meetings and interest groups visit u3asites.org.uk/dartford/welcome WILMINGTON AND AXSTANE PROBUS CLUB We are a group of retired men who meet monthly for a lunch and a speaker at the Swanley Bowls Centre. We also have a monthly walk and occasional coffee mornings and as a side line we raise money for a local charity. If you are missing the contact with other business men since you retired, why not come and join us on the last Thursday of every month. For more details contact Phil Burt on 01322 274541 or look at our website www. waprobus.com

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 HEALTHCARE RETIREMENT GROUP Dartford & Gravesham Branch. Meets the first Wednesday of every month at the Masonic Hall, West Hill, Dartford from 1012pm.Activities include guest speakers, outings, lunches, holidays and quizzes. For more information contact Marion on 01322 402967

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

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 Celebrating 50years. Based in Heath Lane, we are a friendly club with super equipment, great coaches and high standards. We do lots of competitions and we do not close through the holidays! Visit our website www.dartfordgymnastics. co.uk for full details or contact Linda on 01322 409312 or email dartfordgymclub@yahoo. co.uk

LEARN KARATE Learn karate with Yamato Damashii – for adults & children Every Wednesday evening at the Leigh Academy & every Saturday morning at Becket Sport Centre, first lesson free. For more info, visit www.ydma.club or find us on Facebook, search for Yamato Damashii Martial Arts.

KENT EXILES AMERICAN FOOTBALL CLUB www.kentexiles.co.uk. Coach Martin - 07944 730634. All ages from 7 years to adult welcome

ENERGY FITNESS AND NUTRITION I run group fitness classes as well as 1-1 and semi private personal training sessions in Darenth at Dimples Day Nursery DA2 7HT. ENERGY Fitness & Nutrition: we offer a wide variety of group classes such as strength & conditioning, boot camps, Boxercise, mum and baby classes, inside and outside classes with great equipment and suitable for all abilities. The website is www.energyfitnut.co.uk

FAIRFIELD (DARTFORD) WI We meet on the second Tuesday of the month at Dartford Girls Grammar School at 7.30pm. Activities include guest speakers, theatre visits and monthly lunches. New members welcome. For more information please call Judith on 01322 278703

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.

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. 55. We have a monthly meeting on the second Thursday at Sutton at Hone Scout Hut at 1.30pm. Associated activities include petanque, keep fit, short mat bowls, country walks and ten pin bowling. Come along to a meeting [£2 entrance] or call Carol on 07912 564710. You will receive a warm welcome.

WAR GAMES AND MODEL CLUB Based in Erith we have a wide number of members from across SE London and Kent. A great place to come and have a game, make, paint and hobby! Or, if you prefer, come grab a cup of tea and chat about all things hobby and some things not! For more info visit - https:// emperors10th.wixsite.com/home

DARTFORD PARKRUN Dartford parkrun is a free to enter 5k run every Saturday morning starting by the Dartford harriers track in Central Park at 9am. All participants get a time a position emailed and texted after the event. To register go to www.parkrun.org.uk. Remember to bring your printed Barcode. Every Sunday Morning in the Park there is a Junior parkrun over 2k.

FOOTSCRAY MEADOW PARKRUN A new Parkrun event with parking at Crazy Barn

SEEDS CYCLING CLUB DARTFORD Seeds is a long-established cycling Club in Dartford and we share our headquarters at Hesketh with Dartford Cricket Club. We cater for most abilities and have a social ride most Saturday mornings. For info on joining us please visit our website www.seedscycling.co.uk

DARTFORD AND WHITE OAK TRIATHLON CLUB We are the local British Triathlon Federation Club covering Bexley, Dartford and Swanley. We offer coached swimming sessions 3 times per week at White oak pool in Swanley and Fairfield pool in Dartford. Our members compete in many local Triathlons plus many members are training towards Iron Man distance. We also have our own Triathlon in June every year which has been running since 1989. If you are interested in joining us then please visit our website http://www.dartfordandwhiteoaktri.co.uk

DARTFORD ROAD RUNNERS Dartford Road Runners are based at Princes Park Stadium and are one of the biggest road running clubs in Kent. We currently have about 200 members of all abilities including a beginners group. DRR teams compete in the

Kent League, the Assembly League and the Kent Fitness League. To see what we offer and how to join us please visit our website – anyone is welcome to join us with all abilities. http://dartfordroadrunners.co.uk/node/440

DARTFORD HARRIERS ATHLETICS CLUB Dartford Harriers is among the leading athletics clubs in Kent, with a history stretching back to the 1920′s, making it one of the oldest clubs in the country. If you are interested in seeing how we can help you advance your Athletics then please visit our website http://www.dartfordharriersac.co.uk

CENTRAL PARK ATHLETICS CLUB We are situated in Dartford’s outstanding Central Park and can provide access to a state of the art running track (re-laid in 2015) and the full range of track and field facilities for just £4.50 per session (we offer discounted annual memberships). Refreshments and changing facilities are also available. For no extra charge, we hold coached track sessions on Wednesday evenings for runners of all abilities.

This is a tough but very popular way to increase your stamina and running technique, and you’ll be in the company of qualified coaches and some of the friendliest runners around. For more information please visit our website centralparkathletics.co.uk

Every Sunday 10-11am – Child friendly coached sessions – Come and join the CPA Swifts – As a fledgling club we would like to give children of all ages and abilities the chance to experience training and coaching within a club environment – come and be part of the team Free first session with this advert

SO LET’S GO RUNNING (SLGR) SLGR is a local running club with structured training sessions designed to improve runners speed and stamina. There are currently four runs available with more starting soon; see below for more details.

The Run leaders for each group are as follows; Dartford Cricket Club, Dartford - Dawn & Brian

Cyclopark, Gravesend - Dawn & Brian New runners are always welcome, and you can contact Brian if you would like more information; see contact details and e-mail link on Our Group page. DARTFORD BOCCIA CLUB Boccia is a Paralympic Sport similar to Pétanque or Boules. It is played in a seated position therefore ideal for disabled or non-disabled persons to play together.

We meet once a fortnight on a Saturday between 5-6pm. Cost is £2.50 per player per session. There is FREE parking on site. All welcome.

DARTFORD & DISTRICT PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY. We are a long-established camera club meeting fortnightly at Stone Pavilion. We have an exciting programme of speakers, competitions, practical evenings and would welcome new members with or without photographic experience to our friendly meetings. You can attend several meetings as a guest before taking out membership which enables you to become a fully-fledged member and enter competitions. Our website is dartphoto. org.uk. We have a spacious hall which enables us to meet “socially distanced” in the present environment. We hope to meet you soon.

DARTFORD MUSIC SCHOOL Want to learn to play or sing?

For all ages and abilities, we have something for you.

We offer a variety of music learning activities based at The Mick Jagger Centre including Individual Instrumental Lessons, group sessions with Red Rooster, Dartford Youth Choir and DMS Orchestra!

What’s stopping you?

Webpage: www.themickjaggercentre.com/dartford-music-school.html Email: DMS@themickjaggercentre.com Follow us: Twitter @Dartford_Music Instagram @ dartfordmusicschool

WILMARA Wilmington Active Retirement Group. We are an active retirement group who meet on the third Friday of the month from 2pm till 4pm at the Memorial Hall in Wilmington. Our activities include guest speakers, outings, holidays, theatre trips, tenpin bowling, Petanque, Kurling, indoor sports activities and a lunch club. Please come along and pay us a visit you will be very welcome! Telephone Membership Secretary. Wendy Murray 01322 226943

YOGA & MEDITATION CLASSES Every Tuesday from 6-7pm &Thursday from 10.30am to 12.00pm at Peppercorns, 3 Orchard

NORTH KENT EMBROIDERERS Learn new techniques, make friends and enjoy interesting talks, workshops and demonstrations. Absolute beginners and more experienced stitchers welcome. We meet on the third Saturday of every month except August from 2-4pm in Southfleet Village Hall, Southfleet, Gravesend, DA13 9NX or by Zoom if necessary. Visitors are very welcome.

website: www.northkentembroiderers.co.uk email: info@northkentembroiderers.co.uk phone: Eileen on 01474 324734

DARTFORD CHORAL SOCIETY A warm welcome awaits newcomers to Dartford s oldest choir - established over 100 years ago. We rehearse on Monday evenings between 7.30pm and 9.30pm at The Mick Jagger Centre, Shepherds Lane, from September to June and perform four concerts annually. Just turn up to sample the delights of choral singing! For more information please contact the Chairman, Pat Everington. Tel: 01322 220124.

Charity No. 1148298

FREE VOLUNTEER TRAINING Home-Start are recruiting new volunteer parents – of any age, background, culture or gender – to attend a free 40-hour course of preparation beginning Wednesday 5th October 10.00 – 2.00 [ then a further nine Wednesdays until 14th December ] Subjects covered include ADDICTION, DEPRESSION, LISTENING SKILLS, LOSS, PARENTING SKILLS, LEARNING THROUGH PLAY, CHILD PROTECTION, SPECIAL NEEDS Following training (plus DBS checks + references) individual volunteers will be ‘matched’ with isolated vulnerable local families with pre-school children – to home visit for 2-3 hours per week offering emotional and/or practical parent-to-parent support. Travel expenses are paid and ongoing supervision / training provided www.homestartnwkent.org.uk CALL 01322 225 100 for details

or email office@homestartnwkent.org.uk

ST ALBAN’S AND ST EDMUNDS CHURCH GROUPS St Alban’s Church (St Albans activities closed for the summer - back in September)

- Stepping Stones’ Toddler Group @ St Alban’s Church, St Alban’s Road, Dartford DA1 3FT Wednesday’s from 8:30am – 11:30am. - Community Café Coffee Morning @ St Alban’s Church (Tuesdas) , St Alban’s Road, Dartford DA1 1FT, 10am – 12noon. Drinks, sausage or bacon sarnies, scones, fruit, friends and chat. - Knit & Natter @ St Alban’s Church, St Alban’s Road, Dartford DA1 1FT 10:00am – 11:30am, on the first and third Saturdays of the month. Come and knit, learn to crochet (or teach someone else), have a coffee and a lot of nattering!

St Edmund’ Church

- Kindness and Wellbeing Group @ St Edmund’s Church, St Edmund’s Road, Temple Hill, Dartford DA1 5ND - Tuesday’s from 9:30am – 11:30am. Make new friends, chat over a cuppa, mindfulness and well being resources and support.

- Café @ St Edmund’s Church, St Edmund’s Road, Temple Hill, Dartford DA1 5ND Thursdays from 10am – 12noon

- Over 60’s Club @ St Edmund’s Church, St Edmund’s Road, Temple Hill, Dartford DA1 5ND Lunch at 12:30pm (£5pp must be booked in advance). Raffles and bingo from 1pm, prizes galore.

• 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

DIRECTORY OF LOCAL BUSINESSES ADVERTISING IN DARTFORD LIVING

ACCOUNTS, FINANCE AND LEGAL K & A Chartered Surveyors Blue Rocket Accounting Summit Wealth Downton and Ali Associates

HOME IMPROVEMENTS The Double Glazing Repair Man Access for Lofts Tudor Living - Electrician Steve Cook- Double Glazing Claremont Decorative Services

CLEANING SERVICES Oven Clean

RELIGIOUS SERVICES Crossways Community Church St Albans & St Edmunds Church Groups

COUNCIL SERVICES Dartford Borough Council

MEMBERS OF PARLIAMENT Gareth Johnson

ESTATE/LETTING AGENTS Fox Estates Wisdom Estates

FLORISTS Dartford Florist

GARAGES/VEHICLE SERVICES Orchard Garage

CARE PROVIDERS Anchor Foster Care Home Instead

HEALTH AND WELLBEING Ruby Lox- Hairdressing

4 22 49 59 BUSINESS SERVICES The HR Dept

PET SERVICES Happy Dogs and Mogs

4 11 32 33 55

6 PRINTERS Darenth Print and Design

RESTAURANTS, CAFES, FOOD OUTLETS Efes

FARM SHOPS Stanhill Farm Wilmington Village Market

22 54 EDUCATION Baby/Toddler Sense My Bluewater Tutor Katie B Kids

30

32 CHARITABLE ORGANISATIONS Valley Park Radio We Are Beams New Life Christian Community Foodbank

17 19

6 LEISURE/ENTERTAINMENT FC Academy Bexley Park Sports & Social Club Orchard Theatre YDMA Karate Paul Page Gold Academy

60 TRAVEL Harden Holidays

2 34 RETAIL The Bed Post Craft Frames Bradleys Jewellers

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LOCAL AND NATIONAL

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

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 Boots Chemist Bluewater 01322 624780 (Late Night) ASDA Greenhithe Chemist 01322 374100 (Late Night) The National Pandemic Flu Service 0800 1513 100 West Kent NHS helpline 0800 0 850850

TRAVEL Heathrow Airport Enquires 08700 000123 Gatwick Airport Enquires 08700 002468 National Rail Enquires 08456 484950 Highways England Info Line 0300 123 5000

HELPLINES 24 Hour Kent Dementia Helpline: 0800 500 3014 Alcoholics Anonymous: 08457 697 555 Citizens Advice Bureau: 01322 472 979 Debt Councilling (CAP) 0800 328 0006 Information About Drugs - FRANK: 0800 776600 Kent Homophobic Incident Reporting Line: 0800 328 9162 Kent Racial Incident Reporting Line: 0800 138 1624 Local Breastfeeding Counsellors Judianne/Paula 01322 224072 National Domestic Violence Helpline (24 hour) 0808 2000 247 NSPCC Child Protection Helpline: 0808 800 5000 RSPCA Kent, North West Branch Helpline 01322 286720 Samaritans: 116 123

LOCAL MP Gareth Johnson 020 7219 7047 Dartford Volleyball Club Graham - 01322 275290 or 07984 106134.

Stone Lodge Indoor Bowling Club 01322 274111.

VCD Table Tennis Club Eric Jenkins - 0208 3038312.

‘Play & pay’, 9 hole, par 3 golf course on Dartford Football Club’s Princes Park- Contact: 01322 299990 www.dartfordfc.com LOCAL SPORTS CLUBS Bexley Rugby Club 01322 550142 or www.pitchero.com/clubs/ bexleyrfc/ Dartford Ladies Hockey Club Dawn Hall (Secretary) 07793 777250 Dartford Ju Jitsu Club Mondays, Dartford Girls Grammar School, Shepherds

Lane. 6.30-8.00 Juniors, 8.00-10.00 Seniors www. dartfordjujitsu.co.uk Dartford Sharks Basketball Club Tim Dickson - 07855 692527.

Dartford Valley RFC - www.pitchero.com/clubs/ darenthvalleyrfc/ USEFUL FACEBOOK GROUPS Dartford Living Dartford Together Dartford Living Community Group

Corporate

Call Brian Downton, Dartford’s Protection Champion for:

Business Protection – We can help to ensure your company is protected should a key stakeholder, such as a director, su er a serious illness or die. Key Person Protection – This protects your business in the event of the loss of a person who makes a significant contribution towards the profitability of your company. Business Insurance – Whether you would like to insure your premises or stock, need employer’s liability, public liability or indemnity cover, we can help. Corporate Private Medical Insurance – Protecting your employees provides them and you with the peace of mind that comes with knowing they will have access to the care they need if they are unwell.

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Downton & Ali Associates

0203 0210075 info@downtonandali.co.uk