Dartford Living August 2023

Dartford St John’s Ambulance Badgers awards 2023

How to build a business around your children

Healthy Living Centre

Four entrepreneurs launch alternative care provider with Visiting Angels

DART

West Hill neighbourhood watch pop up event

Pickers, Pageants and Parades

Running an Ironman for charity

Captivating Cyprus

Faye Tozer stars in 42nd Street

Competition

Life Under the Stairs

Walking with the Darts

Myth busting the role of a care

Professional

Auto news

Sports News

Painted Rocks

The expanding practice team

Penelope’s Restaurant review

Recipe: Chocolate Brownies

Where to go locally

Useful Numbers

Advertisers Index

DARTFORD LIVING MAGAZINE

PRINTED BY:

Dear Dartford Living Readers,

Welcome to our August issue of the magazine - we hope you like it!

We continue to live in challenging times, but as usual the magazine is jam-packed with lots of local information and local businesses. Please support as many as you can - use them or lose them! Like never before, your community needs you.

In case you weren’t aware, we run Dartford Living alongside volunteer members of the local community for the local community. It’s the only independently run magazine serving the local area with information, fun, good news and positive local stories!

Please get in touch if you would like to write an article for the magazine. If writing is not for you, then perhaps you could volunteer to deliver 100 or so magazines to your neighbours. You will guarantee your copy of the magazine and get a little exercise as well!

If you email editor@dartfordliving.com we will add you to our e-newsletter mailing list and you will join over 50,000 local people who read the magazine and/or follow us on social media each month.

Take care, Vijay

Editor - Dartford Living

(and

the rest of the fantastic Dartford Living volunteer team)

DARTFORD ST JOHN AMBULANCE BADGERS AWARDS 2023

By local resident, Sarah Young

their promise.

July 9th saw Dartford Badgers hold their annual awards evening. It was a pleasure to invite special guests Kelly Grehan (Councillor for Temple Hill and Dartford North East), Peter Longbottom (Dartford resident, active community member and Area Manager for St John Ambulance) and Vijay Jain (Dartford Living Magazine’s very own Editor) to present special recognition awards.

We welcomed Badgers and their families to join us in celebrating all of our recent successes. This year has been amazing, with Badgers earning an incredible six subject badges- ranging from Helpful to Active to First Aid and Caring.

I have been Unit Manager here at Dartford Badgers for 11 years, and I never tire of seeing Badgers learn and grow, gain confidence and become the very best that they can be.

Dartford St John Ambulance welcomes Badgers from the ages of 5-11 years old. We aim to teach life skills, like communication, empathy, compassion, care and first aid, all taught in an engaging, fun and age appropriate way. Badgers take part in a wide range of fun activities based on essential first aid and other fascinating topics, earning badges and certificates for each one. For every three subjects a Badger completes, they receive an award until they achieve their Super Badger Award.

Badgers promise to be a good Badger and try to do their very best in absolutely everything they do. And this year they have all striven to keep

As leaders it’s wonderful to see how proud they are to be a Badger. So much effort to be celebrated. Each Badger earning their individual awards, and enjoying sharing these with their families. This year was exceptionally difficult to choose our special recognition awards, as every single one has been a shining example of St John Ambulance and a credit to their families. Peter presented an award for most Helpful Badger – for the Badger that always helps every week without being asked. Kelly Grehan was delighted to present The Maggie Riley Award for Achievement – for the Badger that always puts in 100% effort and never gives up. And Vijay presented the Dartford Living Award for Badger of the year (on behalf of the whole DL Team)- for being a truly amazing Badger that shows all of the important values and skills, and for showing compassion and empathy. Peter Longbottom said “Well done to all who received awards, you are a credit to Kent SJA” Hear Hear!

For more information on St John Ambulance Badgers please visit www.sja.org.uk/get-involved/ young-people/badgers

HOW TO BUILD A BUSINESS AROUND YOUR CHILDREN

By The Rebel School

If you’re looking for the flexibility to work around your kids or make extra money to help tackle the rising cost of living, starting your own business could be the option.

“When my son was little, I designed a portable toilet for children and always dreamed of seeing it for sale on the high street” says, Zoë Chapman, founder of KiddiWhizz.

“2020 was looking like a write-off (for developing my business), but within a month after attending the Rebel course, I was holding my manufactured product and had formed a company with a clear vision.”

Simon Paine, the co-founder of Rebel Business School, shares his tips for starting a business alongside parenting:

1 – Figure out your idea

You don’t need to be the next big entrepreneur to start a business. Look at your past skills, hobbies, or frustrations to find a simple product or service to sell. Take small, consistent steps and build

your business at a pace that suits your family.

2 – Borrow, barter and get stuff for free

As a parent, you don’t have money to waste. Search sites like Facebook Marketplace or Freecycle for physical things, negotiate with independent venues to bring people in during their down time or swap your skills with someone else to get what you need.

3 – Sell your value before you create it

Get paid upfront for your product or service to use your customer’s funds to develop your business. If you think creatively and build trust with your customers then this approach can apply to any business.

If you want help to turn your ideas into a business and get your new venture off the ground, join the next 2-week online Rebel Business School course which starts on 18th September and is free to attend.

Visit their website for more information: therebelschool.com/kent

HEALTHY LIVING CENTRE DARTFORD - HEALTH AND WELLBEING

Our Hatchlings Cookery Course encourages 8–12-year-olds to throw away the recipe book and learn to cook with what is available. Each week starts with a dish in mind, but the children choose what (and how much) of each ingredient they want to include in their dish. This encourages confidence and creativity in the kitchen, and the young people are always eager to taste their culinary creations!

Our aim at Healthy Living Centre Dartford is to reduce health inequalities and improve health and wellbeing in our local community. We achieve this by delivering and facilitating projects that offer a range of opportunities for training, volunteering, social interaction, and community engagement.

Many of our projects involve food. During the Covid-19 pandemic we delivered Dartford Larder, a membership scheme that redistributed surplus food to the local community. We also worked with Dartford Borough Council to deliver food provisions to vulnerable and shielding residents.

Since the pandemic, our journey to reduce food waste continues. As a Fareshare Go partner, our wonderful volunteers collect donations of perfectly good, useable produce from local supermarkets which would otherwise end up in landfill. Shops cannot sell produce after the “Best Before Date,” and we prefer to follow the ‘Look, Smell, Taste’ idea to check the quality!

We share these donations at our social groups – Community Hubs, Hygge on the Hill, and Tree Bingo – for visitors to take home or share at the group with a cuppa.

Our ‘Chop and Chatter’ Cookery Club makes clever use of these donations to create a delicious main and dessert course every week. The group is really varied in age and ability and kitchen tasks shared between them to produce something amazing - that we all sit together and enjoy for lunch.

Our monthly Tree Community Lunch brings together local people to enjoy a delicious home cooked two course meal, tea, and good company. And the breakfast offered at our Community Hub is very reasonably priced and a great excuse to stop and chat for a while.

In September we will be offering FREE Slow Cooking courses to enable participants to confidently cook their own nutritious, easy, economical meals. The course will be full of other useful hints and tips to cook a wide variety of dishes and - like our Hatchlings Course -we hope to enable participants to be confident to adapt each recipe according to what is available and the likes/needs of their family.

As well as our cookery clubs, we also regularly cook for other organisations. The charity Porchlight have a weekly Drop-In session at Temple Hill Community Centre where we provide a hearty meal for any of their clients who come in for advice.

Of course, throughout the year we are incredibly grateful to our community allotmenteers for providing fruit and vegetables for all our cookery sessions and for visitors to the centres to take home.

Home grown, fresh and local – you just cannot beat it!

We are also always looking for volunteers to help support our cookery sessions – if you think you could help or you would like any information on any of the cookery sessions we have – please email us: info@hlcdartford.org.uk or call us on 01322 311265.

You can find Healthy Living Centre Dartford activities at both Tree Estate and Temple Hill Community Centres, where our team of friendly volunteers and staff will be happy to welcome you. For all our most up-to-date information follow us on Facebook or Instagram.

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FOUR ENTREPRENEURS LAUNCH ALTERNATIVE CARE PROVIDER WITH VISITING ANGELS

care from a member of the family. We’d hoped to set out on this venture years ago, but with the pandemic increasing the need for exceptional carers who are now being heavily impacted by the cost-of-living crisis, it’s the perfect time to truly embed ourselves in the community.

“We’re so passionate about helping in any way we can. When you want to help the whole world, you have to approach it one community at a time!”

Thanks to their ‘carer-centric’ approach, Visiting Angels has already been making a difference in other parts of the UK. In fact, their staff turnover rate is just 12% - nearly six times lower than the industry’s all-time high average of 64% –something The Dartford Boys expect to repeat at their local branch.

Four local entrepreneurs, more fondly known as ‘The Dartford Boys’, have recently embarked on their new business venture with a mission to take pressure off families who have been forced to choose between their careers and caring for loved ones in need. Together, they have launched Visiting Angels – a care provider that supports people in the comfort of their own homes – to meet the growing demands for exceptional and consistent care delivery while rewarding carers for their ongoing commitment and sacrifice to the industry.

Moving to the UK from Bangladesh between 2009-2010, Rashed, Rony, Abdur and Saddam all grew up in environments where the responsibility of caring for elderly loved ones and others in need was a fundamental part of their culture. And having met during their studies in business management which led to the group enjoying successful careers in hospitality, business development and recruitment, they have long understood the demands and intricacies of placing devoted professionals in client-facing roles.

Now, having reassessed their own ambitions and careers amid the cost-of-living crisis, they have decided it is the perfect time to apply their skills to an industry that will take the pressure of care completely off the local community and help those in need “shine”.

‘The Dartford Boys’ “It’s incredibly important that we give something back to the community that’s done so much for us since we moved here,” explained Rashed.

“Having come to the UK from Bangladesh, we thought it was fitting to launch a care provider that’s driven by community spirit and helping those in need feel as though they’re receiving

Companies that prioritise the wellbeing of their staff see an improved level of service for clients in need, with carers feeling valued, protected, and respected for their ongoing commitment to an industry in serious need of reform. By providing carers with official contracts of employment, paying for time between home visits and fairly subsidising milage in line with the rising prices of fuel, the team is acting on issues that have been damaging the reputation of the in-home care sector for years. These policies, combined with an unwavering drive to take pressure off families in need of their services are all ways that Visiting Angels raises the standard of social care across Northwest Kent.

“The Visiting Angels approach just makes sense in today’s world,” added Rashed. “Carer centricity is the leading light for the future of care provision, as when you put carers at the heart of the business, great quality care follows naturally.

“At Visiting Angels, celebrating every small achievement is prioritised. Clapping for carers three years ago was quickly forgotten, so we want to do something to continue that trajectory for carers’ whole careers. We’re hoping to grow at a rate that will give plenty of employment opportunities to carers in the area, so aim to employ 30 passionate, exceptional carers over the next year while maintaining the exceptional standards Visiting Angels sets.”

www.visiting-angels.co.uk/northwestkent/

DARTFORD ANIMAL RESCUE TEAM (DART)

By Ciara O’Hare

So what’s been happening at Dartford Animal Rescue (DART) this month?

We receive multiple calls and messages a day - especially at this time of year - but here’s an overview of July 2023:

This month we lost one of our founding members and the kindest powerhouse of a man I’ve ever had the pleasure of meeting, Jeffrey Ward. Jeff was known to many in the animal rescue community and has been a dear friend of mine for many years. We’ve been volunteering alongside each other long before DART existed and he supported me through thick and thin. The world is far worse off for him not being in it. DART wouldn’t be the rescue we are today without him. We love you so much Jeff and our thoughts are with your amazing family and friends.

One of our wonderful baby bird fosterers, that I also have the pleasure of calling my younger sister Rosie, has been doing an amazing job this month raising two baby ring-necked parakeets. Their names are Algae and Moss. Algae joined us first after being found ice-cold and hungry on the ground in a park. Algae also had a small wound to the back of their head. After warming the little one up on the drive back to the rescue, I was able to begin treatment. Once Algae stabilised I began reaching out to other local rescues to see if anyone had recently admitted a baby parakeet that our little dude could be paired up with to give them the best possible chance of a “natural” upbringing while in captivity being raised by humans.

Not long after this our friends at Greenwich Wildlife Network admitted a baby parakeet, a little older than Algae but weaker and not as far along in their weaning. So Francis, one of our incredibly

dedicated transport volunteers, did the journey over to Greenwich to collect the baby who we named Moss. Moss was not strong on their feet and was not eating independently but within 1 hour of meeting Algae they had already observed how to successfully demolish a grape. These green goofballs are set for soft release in the near future when they’re both big and strong. Algae is already starting to fly (very) short distances at (very) low heights off the ground. Rosie is very proud of their progress and we are very proud to have Rosie on our team raising countless groups of baby birds over the years.

Catch our next patient story in the next issue of Dartford Living magazine!

Dartford Animal Rescue Team, founded in 2021 by Ciara O’Hare, is a team of wildlife rehabilitators, veterinary professionals, transport volunteers and trained rescuers and fosterers. We also run a wonderful Microsanctuary called The DART House which is home to multiple disabled birds and other domestic animals. We predominantly rehabilitate and rescue wildlife but also have experience helping many domestic and farm species and if we can’t help, we’ll know another experienced team or individual to refer you to.

We are a queer, disabled, and woman run family rescue that’s proud to support and advocate for the rights of other species on this beautiful planet we share.

West Hill Neighbourhood Watch holds first pop-up event in Wilmot Park

In addition, there is an opportunity for residents to learn more about the Neighbourhood Watch charity, its national vision, its focus areas and the practical, real-life impact of these 3 connected West Hill schemes, both now and going forward. The coordinators are also keen to bust some myths that may exist around the previously perceived, ‘curtain-twitching’ nature of Neighbourhood Watch. With a key focus on improving the diversity and age demographics of the national charity, this modern Neighbourhood Watch is really primed, and is already making, significant difference in our local communities.

This event comes hot off the news that we will start to see ‘Bobby’s on the beat’ again as part of Kent Police’s commitment to neighbourhood policing, around West Hill, and the wider Dartford area.

On Saturday 19th August 2023 between 10am and 2 pm, the coordinators of West Hill Neighbourhood Watch, a bustling combination of 3 connected community schemes representing over 270 residents across the West Hill, Dartford area, will hold their first pop-up event in Wilmot Park. The overarching purpose of this event is helping local residents connect and to offer a space to share experiences linked to anti-social behaviour, crime and other community topics.

Approved by Dartford Council, this pop-up event will take place at the entrance to Wilmot Park. This location has been chosen as it will allow for a mix of conversations with parents, playground users and dog walkers alike.

You can find out more about the event and register your attendance at the Facebook event which can be found at https://fb.me/e/6hRuKnmvb. You can contact Garry for more info on 07500 660214 or via email at yourwesthillnhw@gmail.com.

PICKERS, PAGEANTS AND PARADES: WALK THROUGH DARTFORD’S SUMMER HOLIDAY HISTORY

By Clair Humphries

Throughout history, Dartford has provided plenty of entertainment for locals during the summer – you may have enjoyed recent festivals and celebratory events in the town, whether in its parks, halls or open spaces. If so, you’ve followed in the footsteps of numerous residents past, who made the most of long summer days taking part in processions and parades both in the town centre and its surrounding villages. The summer months have seen high drama too – particularly during the war years – but community has always been central to this corner of Kent, in good times and bad. So, why not join me on a trip down memory lane and explore what bygone Dartford summer holidays had to offer…

Residents have always flocked to its centre for summer celebrations. Recorded as a thriving market town since medieval times, Dartford was known primarily as a trading place for corn and grain. Esteemed Kent historian Edward Hasted gives a vivid description of its annual Summer Fair in ‘The History and Topographical Survey of the County of Kent,’ (1797) where he writes about fancy dress competitions, races and performances from concert bands. As a local (Hasted’s ancestral home was in Sutton-at-Hone) it’s likely he visited the fair himself, which was traditionally held on

the second of August each year.

Summer Nature Trail!

The school holidays are a great time to explore Dartford Heath. See if you can spot dragonflies and damselflies on the ponds, purple heather growing on the heathland and chaffinches building their nests – check out the Dartford Heath guide on www.dartford.gov.uk to learn more.

Local villages have a long tradition of gathering together for summer celebrations. Until fairly recently, these tended to be farming communities (with Kent being the Garden of England after all!) Wilmington in particular was known for its soft fruit production and apple orchards abounded, with high summer and harvest a focal point. Two of my favourite local blogs – www.suttonathonehistory. co.uk and www.maypolehistory.site123.me feature community summer carnivals. In the 1900s, Sutton at Hone’s carnival had become an annual fundraising event, as villagers paraded in fancy dress, collecting money for the poor. Maypole’s carnival processions were equally jolly, as residents also dressed up and took part in various sports day races. One poignant account describes how local conscripted soldiers attended in uniform, during the First World War.

HALL PLACE

The first half of the 20th century saw a trend –not just in Dartford – but nationwide, for summer town pageants. Inspired by medieval morality tales and legends, these spectacles often involved community and religious groups (and very elaborate costumes!) In 1932, the Dartford pageant stood out, attracting around 5000 people at the main performance staged in Hall Place gardens. There, an assembled cast reenacted biblical stories and tales of Kent bravery according to the West Kent Advertiser – including the depiction of the Black Prince visiting Bexley. Surviving photographs (although black and white) show impressive looking ‘knights’ on horseback, surrounded by cheering medieval ‘maidens’ and children waving patriotic flags. The owner of Hall Place, Lady Limerick, (who planted the original topiary ‘beasts’) threw open her grounds to host the pageant which attracted various local dignitaries including the Lord Bishop of Rochester.

Quick Quiz:

Who was the famed ‘Black Prince?’

a) Prince Edward

b) Prince Albert

c) Prince Harry

The war years were tough for Dartford folk – as with all those living in or near to London, they became used to the threat of attack, with Second World War air raids a regular occurrence. In August 1944, one particular bombing raid hit home when a doodlebug (or flying bomb) caused devastation in Carrington Road. A plaque commemorates the tragedy, which resulted in damage to seven hundred nearby homes and killed ten people. Although deeply shocking, newspaper cuttings from the time convey a real sense of community spirit, as neighbours rallied round to support those affected by the blast.

As mentioned previously, summer meant harvest time in this corner of the county – and lots of hard work! However, one particular crop brought holidaymakers to Kent, who were able to combine work and leisure in their annual excursion to the Darent Valley hop fields. Right up until the 1960s, Londoners – and families from the suburbs, including Dartford – would descend upon the area, keen to earn money from hop-picking and enjoy the fresher country air. Castle Farm and Sepham Farm in Shoreham were both popular with the ‘hoppers’ who stayed in temporary huts. Local churches catered for the workers’ spiritual needs and some, like the Well Hill Mission chapel, were founded purposefully for the community’s annual visitors.

Summer plans may be more ambitious these days (not that staying in the Darent Valley is so bad…) but there’s still lots to do for all the family within the borough. Like thousands of Dartfordians before you, why not visit a local fair or carnival – or have a day out harvesting farm grown fruit and veg? You’ll be walking through history with a host of colourful Dartford characters who are no longer with us. Apart from the Black Prince, who (it is rumoured) still haunts the passageways of Hall Place by night…

Clair Humphries is a Script Consultant for ATS Heritage.

www.clairhumphries.com

Twitter: @clairhumphries

Instagram: clair_humphries

Quick Quiz answer is a) Prince Edward, who apparently courted his wife-to-be, Joan, on the banks of the River Cray in the 14th century!

DARTFORD HEATH

Local resident and business Owner Brian Downton is running the Copenhagen Ironman for Charity

- Sevenoaks Triathlon

- Tonbridge Triathlon

- Darenth Valley 10km run

- Harvel 5 run

- Dartford Bridge Triathlon

- Cotswold Classick half IM distance triathlon

- Midnight Man half marathon

- Great east swim – 5 km open water swim

Brian will also be travelling to Morocco in November for 5 days cycling in the Atlas mountains

The charities being supported by Brian and Downton and Ali this year are

The Openwork Partnership Foundation – They give grants to small local charities in the UK, supported by advisers and staff within the network

Holding On Letting Go – Brian is a trustee of HOLG who give Pre and Post bereavement advice to children in Kent and SE London

If you would like to support Brian then you can do so on his donation site

Dartford business owner, Brian Downton runs Downton and Ali Associates, a firm of Financial advisers based in Dartford and Coney Hall and giving advice on all areas of financial planning including pensions, investments, mortgages and Protection.

Brian is passionate about giving back to the community, and Downton and Ali as well as Sponsoring Dartford FC for a number of years, raise thousands every year to help local charities and have their annual Spring Ball at Princess Park in March.

Brian has also over the years taken part in a number of sporting events including the London Marathon and Ironman Austria Triathlon and this year he is taking on another Ironman event in Copenhagen on the 20th August.

An Ironman Triathlon consists of 2.4 mile (3.86 km) swim, 112 mile (180.25 km) bicycle ride a marathon - 26.22 mile (42.20 km) run raced in that order and without a break

These are some of the events that Brian has also taken part in this year as part of his training.

- Dartford Half Marathon

- Folkstone 10 mile run

https://sponsorme.charitiestrust.org/event/ ae6aa7b7-3483-4d93-9947-8326e262de37

Friday 22nd September 6.30pm – late Priestfield Stadium, Gillingham

Tickets: £60pp/£540 per table of 10

Book here: www.jumblebee.co.uk/holgsilveranniversaryball

Travel SpotlightCaptivating Cyprus

by Harden Holidays

An island infused with legends, age-old wisdom and captivating natural beauty, you can’t help but be drawn in by Cyprus. You’ll visit tavernas wrapped up in time-honoured traditions, and soak up the feeling of picture-perfect harbours where glam café culture sits beside scenes of bobbing fishing boats. You’ll enjoy incredible coastlines overlooked by craggy hills, and buzzing towns where no two days are the same. And this all comes sprinkled with the magic of Aphrodite – the goddess of love and beauty – whose mythical birthplace is Cyprus. We’ve been swept up in the feeling of Cyprus ourselves to hand pick the very best hotels and resorts, which range from sophisticated beachfront spots with all the trimmings, to peaceful countryside-by-the-sea hideaways.

A sun-drenched island in the Mediterranean Sea, you’ll quickly see that Cyprus is a buzzing holiday spot that seamlessly blends natural majesty with a lively spirit. All the main coastal resorts have at least a beach or two that are pleasant places to embrace some relaxation time. If you’re travelling as a family, you’ll want to spend plenty of time swimming in the calm and shallow waters. There’s an abundance of water sports and boat trips available for people who like a little more action too.

Although it’s easy to get caught up in daily life at the beach in Cyprus, the island has so much more to offer. Nicosia is the last divided capital of the world, marking the boundary between north and south. It’s a fascinating city to explore for this reason alone, but you’ll also have an incredible time discovering the historical sites, museums and colourful shopping streets. The coastal centres of Paphos and Limassol are both home to archaeological sites, insightful museums and a feelgood factor that comes from the simple pleasures of life on a glorious coastline. Limassol Marina is also one of the most beautiful harbours in the Mediterranean, known for its al fresco dining, bars and designer boutiques. Your trip to Cyprus isn’t complete without venturing inland, where you can experience far-reaching views and traditional villages on a journey up Mount Olympus. You may well think it’s the definition of perfection.

When it comes to food in Cyprus, meze can be

found in every restaurant and eatery. This is ideal for you if you love to try a little bit of everything –and the collection of small meze dishes can soon become a lavish feast! Flavours are often simple and sumptuously prepared, letting the top-notch ingredients do the talking. From the creamiest dips served with pitta bread, to impeccably seasoned grilled meat, kebabs and an abundance of halloumi, you can expect to roam between different flavours each and every day. Given the vast coastline in Cyprus too, fish and seafood can often be found on the specials board, and the fresh taste and delicate flavours will keep you coming back for more. Dining can be as formal or as informal as you like in Cyprus, with corner tavernas, buzzy beach promenades with pavement cafés, and fine dining establishments all an option.

When to visit

The weather in Cyprus is mild in winter and warm in the summer, so it’s possible to have an enjoyable and sunny visit any time of the year. The warmest months are between May and October.

What to do

Paphos

Paphos combines the beauty of the mountains and the sea and boasts a friendly atmosphere with plenty to see and do including the Byzantine Castle of Paphos, the Tombs of the Kings, St Paul’s Pillar and the Temple of Aphrodite. Evenings can be pleasantly spent on the beach promenade with its plethora of restaurants serving international and meze specialities. Located on the southwest coast of Cyprus, for those looking for sightseeing alongside fabulous beaches, there is plenty of things to do in Paphos.

For equestrian lovers a truly fantastic way to experience Cyprus is by horseback and Ride in Cyprus Ltd offers guided rides around the area. The Kato Paphos Archaeological Park is an amazing place to visit with its well-kept ruins and beautiful mosaics. With plenty of things to do in Paphos visitors will never be short of activities. For beach-lovers, Paphos Municipal Beach is a superb beach with excellent facilities.

Limassol

The city of Limassol is located on Akrotiri Bay on the southern coast of Cyprus. Boasting a wide range of museums, archaeological sites, superb beaches and, with the current construction of a new marina, Limassol is an excellent destination for those wondering what to do in Cyrpus. Home to the Fasouri Watermania Waterpark it is a fantastic place for families on holidays to Cyprus. Lady

Mile Beach is also a popular choice with its calm shallow waters. This fabulous beach is wonderfully unspoilt and there are only a few facilities so make sure you come well prepared. For a more traditional Cyprus, the village of Omodos, known for its excellent wine and peaceful atmosphere owing to the nearby monastery, is a great place to relax and unwind away from the far more conventional city.

Nicosia

Nicosia is not only the capital of Cyprus, but is also known as the last divided city of Europe. As well as giving the opportunity to look across the Green Line into the Turkish occupied area, there is much to explore in this historic city including the Archbishop’s Palace, the Cathedral of St John and an Archeological Museum. This magnificent city is home to some of the best things to do in Cyprus. Ledra Street is a busy, thriving shopping area in Nicosia but also the entry point to the Turkish area of the city. The Levantis Municipal Museum of Nicosia provides a great account of the history of Cyprus. For those wondering where to go in Cyprus, a visit or stay in this city is a great way to experience this fascinating country.

Troodos Mountains

One of the most spectacular things to do in Cyprus is to visit the Troodos Mountains. Delight in the stunning views and scenery of the pineclad Troodos Mountains and Mount Olympus, passing through traditional villages and exploring the famous Kykkos Monastery with its wealth of frescoes and mosaics.

Cruises and Fishing

Enjoy the delightful Mediterranean waters on a boat or catamaran trip. Most coastal resorts have fishing boats from which you can try your hand at sea fishing. Serious anglers may wish to get a licence from the Fisheries Department to allow you to fish in the well-stocked inland reservoirs.

Walking, Cycling and Golf

There are many opportunities for hiking in the Troodos Mountains either independently or with organised groups, and a ramble along the Aphrodite and Adonis trails on the Akamis Peninsula in the western most part of the island is a must. Cycle hire facilities exist in most resorts, but if you are an ambitious mountain biker and wish to explore the Troodos Mountains and Akamis Peninsula, you may prefer to bring your own. For golfers, Secret Valley, Tsada Golf and Aphrodite Hills are three excellent 18-hole courses in the Paphos area.

FAYE TOZER STARS IN 42ND STREET

of me. I just absolutely absorb myself in the show and in my love of theatre and I’m so lucky to tread the boards in between the times that I’m with Steps.

Steps are of course hugely well loved by fans for their choreographed routines, and 42nd Street shares a love of dance. What is it about dance that you particularly enjoy, and are there any aspects that you find more challenging?

Faye Tozer first flew into the public consciousness as one fifth of the much-loved band Steps in the late 1990s, but she has also forged an impressive nearly two-decade long career in musical theatre alongside the band’s continuing success. She’s now touring the UK in 42nd Street which comes to Dartford from 11th to 16th September. We caught up with Faye to hear all about those dancing feet, and what makes 42nd Street so special to her.

Audiences may know you best for your time in Steps, but you’re a hugely experienced musical theatre performer. What was the transition into musical theatre like for you? Are there many similarities?

I was very lucky to get my first musical in 2004 which was Tell Me On A Sunday, but I actually wanted to get into musical theatre from a really young age. It was amazing having Steps come first, and then having a wonderful life in musical theatre as well. The transition for me was quite interesting, mostly because of how people initially perceived me, but it’s been so wonderful to be somebody who surprises audience members who might have a preconceived idea

As Steps we are of course well known for our dance routines, but dance for me has always been such a hugely special thing in my life because I just feel so joyful when I dance. My Mum sent me and my sister to dance school when we were tiny to burn off all our energy but it’s so much more than that. It’s just joyful to watch people dance and do it so brilliantly as well. To be part of 42nd Street which is all to do with dance and tap is like my childhood self’s dream! When I was about 12 years old, we performed some numbers from 42nd Street so the fact that I’m now doing it as a professional is such a wonderful full circle moment. It’s dreamy to watch the ensemble perform all these incredible numbers every night.

Your character of Maggie Jones is the writing partner of Bert Barry, played by entertainment icon, Les Dennis. What’s it been like working with Les?

Oh, wonderful Les! Les and I actually have a little bit of history via Steps because he came and did a sketch for us for Steps Into Summer, a television programme we did. Over the years I’ve bumped into him at gameshows and things but what a joy to be sharing the stage with him, and what an absolute pro he is!

You’re experienced at touring life both as a musician and theatre performer, what are some of your must-have items for life on the road, and is there anything you like to do when you arrive in each town or city?

I am an absolute pro when it comes to touring as I’ve been touring since I was 18! I always have a prepped bathroom bag with all my

bottles ready to go – when I come home at the weekend I fill the bottles back up and then they go back in the bag. I’ve got different bags for different sizes of cases as well, and I’ve got my magic overnight bag ready to go. In terms of things I like to take with me, I have a tiny speaker which is amazing and I’ve got a plug that has all my leads in it ready to go, so I can just plug it in at the hotel or wherever and I know I can charge my watch, my phone, my iPad. I always take my iPad with me when travelling so it’s loaded with all the programmes I’m watching just in case I get stuck on a journey!

You’re a very busy person, and touring life is busy too, what do you like to do during your downtime or do you have anything planned for when you next have a break?

In my downtime I love to be at home, cuddle my son, my dogs, and my husband, and just enjoy really normal things at home. I’m so blessed to live 10-minutes from the sea, so going down to the beach and just getting fresh sea air is incredible. If I’m in London or around friends then I love to catch a show, I’m a huge fan of musicals so I see as many as I can and

of course I love good food and good company, just catching up with friends is so lovely.

With the wealth of experience you’ve since gained, is there any piece of advice you’d go back and give your younger self at the start of your career in music and theatre?

That’s an interesting question. I think if I could have told myself, my 18-year-old self, anything I’d say to enjoy life a bit more and not take it so seriously, and also not compare myself to other people and find joy in what makes me a bit different. The thing is though, that’s nice advice to give but part of your learning and growing up is going through all those things. All the things we might call mistakes are important life experiences that teach us where we could be going forward to. Overall, I just feel really happy and blessed to be where I am. I’m proud of my career so far, and also incredibly excited by what I’m able to be doing right now!

Book tickets here: orchardtheatre.co.uk/Online/ tickets-42nd-street-dartford-2023

Win a pair of tickets to see Country Superstars

The show features 11 award winning impersonations of Patsy Cline, Johnny Cash, Billie Jo Spears, Kenny Rogers, Willie Nelson, Tammy Wynette, Garth Brooks, John Denver, Glen Campbell and Canadian Country Superstar Shania Twain. The show also includes The amazing Country Superstars Band.

How many award winning impersonations will be featured in the show? a) 4 b) 5 c) 7 d) 11

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

RULES:

1. The winner(s) will be the first correct entry/entries drawn. 2. The judge’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 or email 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. 7.. All entries will be added to the Dartford Living mailing list to receive a copy of the magazine by email once a month. Please state when you enter the competition if you don’t wish to be added

LIFE UNDER THE STAIRS

By Jane Stevenson

SUN AND SANGRIA

Listening to the travel news over the past few days, anyone due to fly abroad in the coming weeks has my utmost sympathy.

Easyjet have cancelled hundreds of flights from Gatwick, due to problems with the air traffic controllers. This seems to happen every year now. Whatever happened to the times when you rocked up to the airport, got on a plane, which left on time, and a couple of hours later got off and began your vacation?

Was I just lucky, or was it a time when ‘the good old days’ really were better?

I spent many enjoyable holidays abroad when younger. France, Italy, Malta, Greece and the USA. Spain was always a favourite though. Firstly, to Tossa de Mar or Majorca, with the notorious Club 18-30 – thank goodness there was no social media in the Dark Ages! Latterly, my good friend and I took off many times for Benidorm. Having a Spanish speaking friend is always a plus.

Benidorm took a downhill turn for some years and became a byword for a place to avoid. Too many fish and chip shops and pubs, poor behaviour, usually by us Brits, high rise, featureless hotels and the all-night clubs with overpriced ‘champagne’ and sangria.

Having said that, I love Benidorm! When we decided our children were old enough to appreciate a bit of foreign travel, it was the first place we considered. They were 8 and 10

and loved every minute. I was surprised too, as the resort had really improved, with clean streets, upgraded beaches and a host of other enhancements. I’ve been back several times, at varying times of the year and never regretted my decision.

It has no pretensions of being anything other than what it is; a holiday resort for all. It caters for all ages and situations. Viva Espana I say.

NATION OF PET LOVERS?

The summer is known as busy time for animal rescue centres. I am a volunteer for one such organisation rescuing cats which are sick, stray or who have been abandoned. It’s something I’ve addressed before and make no apology for doing so again.

Already, our pens are full, volunteers are handraising kittens some of whom are only a few days old. We are accepting animals left to fend for themselves due to age, some with awful medical ailments, others just unwanted and left by the roadside or in waste bins. Occasionally an animal reaches us with such horrific injuries that despite the best efforts of volunteers and the vet, we can’t save them. Thankfully, we don’t give up easily, and have rehomed several hundred over the past two years.

The current situation in this country doesn’t help. Animals obtained during Covid were often unwanted once life began to return to normal. The cost of living is another factor; often people simply can’t afford to keep these animals, so surrender them to a rescue, or request they be put down. It is heartbreaking.

Pet ownership is beneficial on many levels; health, wellbeing and companionship being well documented. If you are going to get a cat or dog, do your homework. How is your lifestyle going to accommodate an animal? Hardly ever in? Away for long periods of time? Food and equipment costs? All such questions need to be asked prior to obtaining a pet.

Pet insurance is expensive, as is veterinary treatment. It is worth asking some of the wellknown national charities if they offer low cost or free neutering, but bear in mind this often

comes with conditions attached. They can’t help every single applicant.

From my point of view, I would ask that you adopt, not shop, for a pet. Animals repeatedly used to breed from are often very young themselves and their health can suffer. There are many welfare groups around the Dartford area and the animals are usually rehomed who would be only to pleased to help you choose. By rehoming a cat or dog from a shelter you allow us to accept yet another unfortunate creature who needs our aid. Most rescue centres are extremely helpful to a new owner; the centres usually ensure that every rehomed animal has a clean bill of health, is neutered and microchipped before leaving for their new homes.

There is one last major action we can all do when taking on an animal. Do get them neutered. This will stop further kittens and puppies being born, possibly to life outdoors with little food or a safe place to live. Ferals are more prone to disease, injury and serious medical issues.

Enjoy your pet, and realise you have a responsibility towards it. Have a great summer!

•

•

We

• Saturday Appointments

Call 01322 223 927 or email info@drdc.co.uk for more information

Caring for a loved one can be overwhelming. But you don’t have to do it alone. With a Visiting Angel by your side, you’ll have a helping hand to ease the load, a listening ear to support you, and a warm smile to lift your spirits.

We understand the importance of comfort at home and companionship, and that’s why we go above and beyond to provide the best home care possible.

We can help with activities ranging from shopping & companionship to personal care, hospital discharge and end of life support.

We can visit from one hour each week to every day for as long as you need us to help with: Companion & Social Care Personal Care

Dementia & Alzheimer’s Care Post-Hospital Stay Care

Palliative Care

End of Life Care

Set s a i l fo r

WALKING WITH THE DARTS

by Chris Palmer

Hello again, welcome to another edition of Walking With The Darts, a monthly update on all things related to Dartford FC, courtesy of Dartford Living Magazine.

Quite a lot has happened at Bericote Powerhouse Princes Park since I last wrote in these pages, as the new season is only a couple of weeks away from kicking off.

Sadly our Captain, Tom Bonner, has announced his retirement from the game. It has been a privilege watching him play in the heart of our defence, as he continuously lead by example and put his body on the frontline for 50+ games a season. You can read my conversation with him on both the Dartford FC and Dartford Living websites, as he says goodbye to playing for the club he so dearly loves.

As our pre-season preparations continue, Alan Dowson has added more experience and youth to the squad, which is looking ready to challenge the National League South once again.

Both Charlie Sheringham and Manny Adebowale have re-signed for another campaign, while youngster Ashton Day has put pen to paper on his first ever First Team contract. Joining the trio is Dorking Wanderers’ defender Joe Rabbetts, who has signed on loan until January, and Baris Altintop, who has joined the Darts after leaving Braintree Town.

As seems to be the norm when the fixtures are released, we face Bath City early in the season... only on this occasion we will be entertaining The Romans at Bericote Powerhouse Princes Park on the opening weekend.

Men’s team photos by Carol White-Griffiths, Women’s` team photos: Taur Everard

The Darts then make the long trip to Weymouth, before playing two home games on the bounce... as Hampton & Richmond Borough and Farnborough come to town. A trip to newly promoted Aveley is then quickly followed by Dover Athletic at home, as the opening month finishes on Bank Holiday Monday.

If you’re unable to attend in person, don’t worry, as the National League recently announced that both the National League South and North games are to be streamed on National League TV. So, be sure to check out the National League TV website for more information.

As far as the Dartford FC Women’s team is concerned, their pre-season preparations are well under way as well following a 4-3 victory against Chatham Town Women FC last weekend.

The Dartford FC Women Development team also played, beating Billericay Town Women Development team 5-3 in what was an exciting afternoon of football!

Manager, Connor Dymond, has been busy putting his squad together for the season ahead, which sees his side taking on Dulwich Hamlet FC Women at Bericote Powerhouse Princes Park on Sunday the 20th of August.

At the time of writing, Jade Charlton, Lizzie Adams, and Charlie Torry have committed to play for another season with the Darts, which means that both the Captain and Vice-Captain remain in Connor’s squad. Be sure to check in on the Dartford FC Women’s social media platforms for further news of retained players and new signings.

As always, thank you for your continued support and thanks for reading.

MYTH BUSTING THE ROLE OF THE CARE PROFESSIONAL

By Christina Uppenkamp - Home Instead

Welcome to the latest edition of Senior Snippets: the monthly advisory column with the older members of our community in mind, brought to you by Christina Uppenkamp of Home Instead Dartford.

In this edition, we are going to look at some of the common myths surrounding the role of a Care Professional. We want to help people understand what caregiving entails and to encourage people to think about a career in care. According to Skills for Care, the strategic body for workforce development in adult social care in England, there are approximately 90,000 vacancies in the social care sector at any given time.

Here are the top 5 myths surrounding caregiving:

Myth 1: Caregiving consists only of routine tasks. Many people believe that Care Professionals only have about 15 minutes for each care visit and they mostly provide tasked based care such as help around the house, medication reminders and perhaps drive their client to the grocery store or pharmacy if they have time.

But Care Professionals do so much more than that! They provide a large amount of social and emotional support which can be as impactful on their client’s wellbeing as those performing physical activities. No two days are the same when you work in care.

Myth 2: Care workers are unskilled. Care Professionals are among some of the most skilled healthcare workers in the sector. Carers will always have opportunities to increase their skills or specialise in certain areas, and the sector is constantly changing and growing to meet the needs of the ageing population. There are over 50 qualifications at different levels in social care, so it is important to speak to your employer about learning and developing new skills.

Myth 3: Being cared for in your home is only for the very ill.

Many elderly people want to live at home for as long as possible but might require a little bit of extra help around the house. In these instances, non-medical home care, including personal care and companionship services, can be provided by professional Care Pros.

Non-medical home care often revolves around daily living activities, such as eating, dressing, and bathing and Care Professionals might also

help with driving, shopping and doing housework. Companionship care is also vital to those living on their own as it helps prevent loneliness and isolation. Having a chat over a cup of tea and helping people get out and about is the type of quality time that elderly people most often need.

Myth 4: All caregiving services are the same. The saying “buyer beware” is very true when looking for the right home care company. Whether you are a family member, looking for care for a loved one, or you are looking for a job in the care sector, it is important to remember that not all care companies are the same.

There are many options in today’s market for seniors and their families, and it is recommended for anyone looking for care to do plenty of research and ask a lot of questions.

Myth 5: Most Care Professionals are middle-aged women. Traditionally, this myth might be true, but in today’s society Care Professionals are a more diverse group than many people realise. Many Care Professionals are men, and additionally, many Care Professionals are of the millennial generation, between the ages of 18 and 30. Even children are providing care for loved ones. And not all Care Professionals are family members; these days, friends are increasingly likely to step in. There are many more myths about the role of a Care Professional, but we hope that this article has helped shine a light on caregiving as a rewarding career where you can make a real difference to someone’s life.

At Home Instead we’re running the You Can Care campaign, to provide advice and support. Simply search #youcancare on social media, for a range of hints and tips on ways to live well in later life.

I’d love to hear from you! To make a suggestion for a future Senior Snippets topic, please write to me at c.uppenkamp@dartford.homeinstead.co.uk or by post to Home Instead Dartford, St Fidelis House, St Fidelis Road, Erith, DA8 1AT.

In this month’s article we look at new electric vehicles coming on sale this year and next.

By Dhiren Ganesh

the UK’s most affordable electric car. Described as the Aldi of electric cars Dacia hope to be as popular as the supermarket. The official range from its 26.8kWh battery, for example, is 143 miles which is more than some rivals, but will only have a top speed of 78mph from the 44bhp electric motor. In ‘eco’ mode this can be reduced to 31bhp (top speed to 62mph). Charging up takes as little as 38 minutes at the Spring’s peak charging rate of 34kW. When the Spring goes on sale in Summer 2024; prices are expected to start from around £19,000, likely making it the cheapest electric car.

2023 Hyundai Ioniq 5 N – this is a highperformance electric car with more than 600bhp. Served with two electric motors which is more than double the power of the regular Ioniq 5. The steering, suspension and brakes have been tweaked to improve performance and handling on the car which enables it to reach 0-60 mph in just 3.4 seconds. Powering the electric motors is an 84kWh battery, will be able to travel around 250 miles officially on one charge. Being the hot version of the regular Ioniq 5, the N model adds aggressive details such as orange styling cues, a boot spoiler and bespoke 21in alloy wheels. Prices are yet to be announced but expected to be around £65,000 when on sale in late 2023.

2024 Dacia Spring electric car – will have a range of up to 143 miles, and looks set to be

2023 Peugeot 208 - this brings an updated design, both inside and out, plus new hybrid engine options and a longer range for the electric e-208. The fully electric Peugeot e-208 now has an official range of 248 miles and power has risen to 156bhp compared to previous version. The petrol-powered 208 is now available with a 1.2-litre mild hybrid engine, which comes in 100bhp and 136bhp guises. Either way, a small electric motor means it can occasionally run on electric power at low speeds. Alternatively, you can still have a non-hybrid 1.2-litre threecylinder petrol engine, with either 74bhp or 99bhp. Peugeot has made minor tweaks to the exterior design including new lights front and rear, a reshaped rear bumper and a slightly wider front grille. Expect prices to start from around £21,000 when on sale in October 2023.

ART CLASESS

SUZANNE’S ART STUDIO

”Where young minds paint their dreams to reality”

Techniques you will learn

Drawing

Sketching

Painting

Clay modelling

Materials you will explore

Watercolour

Acrylic

Pastels

Pencils

Colour pencils

Time

Every Wednesday

Age 8-11 years : 16:15 to 17:15

Age 12-15 years : 17:15 to 18:15

Price

£90 for 6 weeks (£15 per class)

*Materials Included

Location

Mick Jagger Centre, Dartford

More info at

www.suzanne.art

hello@suzanne.art

by Bhavesh Ganesh

Arsenal completed the £105m signing of Declan Rice from West Ham; 24-year-old has signed a long-term contract at the Emirates Stadium; Rice was also wanted by Man City but favoured the Gunners.

Arsenal signed Rice from West Ham in a clubrecord deal, making the England midfielder the second-most expensive signing in Premier League history.

Rice had spent a decade at West Ham, making 245 appearances for the first-team after graduating from the academy and helping the Hammers win the Europa Conference League last season – their first major trophy in 43 years. Mikel Arteta identified the England man as someone who could provide the athleticism and vision he felt Arsenal lacked in the middle of the pitch.

Although primarily used as a defensive midfielder at West Ham United, Arteta knows Rice is capable of making an impact in an attacking sense as well.

This would arguably give the Gunners the kind of inspiration in the centre of the pitch they have lacked since the departure of legendary club captain Patrick Vieira in 2005.

Evidently, Rice’s goal output needs to increase from the career-best seasonal haul of five he has managed in each of the past two campaigns but in a side that prefers to control possession rather than hit on the counter like West Ham, that is well within his capabilities. In addition, Rice is a leader.

Sporting events in August include:

20 July-20 August: Football - Women’s World Cup, Australia and New Zealand

23-30 July: Cycling - Tour de France Femmes

3-13 August: Cycling - World Championships, Glasgow

10-13 August: Golf - Women’s Open, Walton Heath

11 August: Football – First game of new Premier League season, Burnley v Man City

19-27 August: Athletics - World Championships, Budapest

cal people from Dartford Painted Rocks on Facebook have been busy this month painting hidin hanged at Stephen Oliver: Studio and lery

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.

Rock Painting in Dartford

lo

e are some great photos of their painted rocks

THE EXPANDING PRACTICE TEAM

By Dr Julie Taylor

The number of appointments offered across Kent have increased by 20% from pre-pandemic to postpandemic, and yet we know that patients are still struggling to get an appointment. The general practice team has changed significantly over the past 4-5 years and includes a number of additional roles. To ensure that patients are able to see the most appropriate person to help them, you may be directed to someone other than a GP when you contact the practice.

Who’s who in the practice?

• In many practices, receptionists or care navigators have received additional training about the care and services available in the practice and local area, so that they can direct you to the right help.

• Healthcare assistants can undertake a range of procedures from blood tests and blood pressure checks to injections, ECGs and health checks.

• Practice nurses are trained to provide support for people with long term conditions, family planning and sexual health services such as contraception and smears, vaccinations and wound care.

• Practices may have nurse practitioners/ prescribers, who work alongside GPs to provide routine or urgent appointments. Some may have extra training in certain disease areas such as diabetes or respiratory illnesses. They are able to prescribe and request investigations for patients that they see and can refer on for hospital review if needed.

• Community paramedics and physician associates also work alongside GPs in a similar way to nurse practitioners/prescribers. Some may have undertaken additional training to be able to prescribe for patients.

• Clinical pharmacists support GPs by ensuring patients are on the correct medication, and that it is prescribed safely. Many also manage long term conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes and asthma. They are experts on medication

and have undertaken additional clinical training in general practice.

• Physiotherapists are experts in dealing with joint and soft tissue problems due to injury, disability or illness. They are the best people to see for assessment and diagnosis, and can arrange further investigations or referral to hospital-based services if needed.

• Mental health nurses/practitioners work alongside GPs and the mental health services to provide support for patients with mental health difficulties. Some practices have care coordinators or social prescribers, who can connect those in need of help to a range of local support, from community and activity groups to work, debt or housing advice.

• GP Registrars are qualified doctors who are completing their training to become a GP.

• GPs can be salaried or partners. As well as seeing patients, they will be involved in supervising all of the people above to do their job. They are available if anyone has a question about what to do next and may be called to see a patient by another professional if they need advice.

Support outside of the practice

There are some things that your practice cannot help with but other organisations can. You may be directed to these if this is most appropriate. Receptionists are trained to help you get to the right place. This might include the following services :

• Community Pharmacy Consultation Service is set up to use the skills and knowledge of pharmacists across a range of minor conditions. You may be referred to this scheme by your practice, 111, A&E or an urgent treatment centre.

• Minor Eye Conditions Scheme is a similar service run by some optometrists for minor eye conditions.

• You may be directed to an urgent treatment centre or A&E if this is the appropriate place to be treated.

111 and 111 online are useful sources of information if you are unsure where to go.

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.

DARTFORD LIVING VISITED PENELOPE’S RESTAURANT

Dartford Living recently had the pleasure of visiting Penelope’s restaurant situated at Beck Evans Farm, Sidcup.

The restaurant, which launched earlier this year, takes its inspiration from the Mediterranean with the menu focusing on fresh, seasonal flavours and locally sourced, sustainably produced food.

When we visited the sun was shining and Penelope’s outdoor terrace was filled with people enjoying the views over the beautiful lavender fields whilst enjoying a live musician, something which we understand happens fairly regularly and really created a great ambience. The restaurant certainly provides the perfect place to enjoy a relaxing summers afternoon.

Penelope’s itself is situated in a restored barn. A gorgeous blue mosaic pizza oven is central to the inside of the restaurant with an open kitchen where kids and adults alike can watch pizzas being made by hand.

Having seen them being cooked we gave the pizzas a try and we can vouch for just how delicious they are. We tried a number of different toppings and each was delicious (our favourite

was the delightful four cheese!). We also tried a tricolore salad which was presented beautifully and tasted amazing. The ingredients were clearly very fresh and the quality of produce on offer was evident.

Attached to the restaurant is the farm shop filled with a whole range of fruits and vegetables, as well as meat and fish and other deli items. There is also a very popular soft play, Crazy Club, an exciting indoor, multi-tiered soft play. Children under 11 have the opportunity to play in a safe and stimulating environment with a variety of slides, ball pits and climbing frames. On top of that Crazy Club seem to run numerous events to engage younger visitors including visits from well known characters Bluey and Cocomelon as well as organising seasonal parties and crafting sessions. Make sure you follow Crazy Club to keep an eye on their upcoming events and how to book.

Although we visited for dinner Penelope’s restaurant is open all day offering a diverse range of dishes from breakfast to afternoon tea. We also spotted a tasty looking Sunday Roast menu!

We can highly recommend a trip to Beck Evans farm and especially Penelope’s restaurant which we can’t wait to return to.

CHOC CHIP COOKIE CAKE

By Debbie Dickinson

With prices continuing to go up, sometimes it’s the treats that have to be left on the shelf - in order to have enough money for the necessities.

One of my best selling items, is my Giant Choc Chip Cookie Cake so I thought it would be nice to share the recipe this month. That way you can make a delicious treat at home for those moments that need it.

This can be personalised easily by swapping out the chocolate chips for dried fruit, marshmallows, or even the chocolate treat of your choice.

As most people don’t have a large enough tin to bake a giant cookie cake, I’ve given the ingredients for an 8” round cake tin (or 7” square tin). If you have a loose bottomed tin it makes it much easier to get the cookie cake out after baking.

You will need:

75g Unsalted Butter

50g Caster Sugar

50g Light Brown Sugar (can use all caster sugar if necessary – it will just alter the taste a bit)

1 Egg

1tsp Vanilla Extract

120g Self Raising Flour

150g Chocolate Chips

What to do:

Cream the Butter and Sugars together until pale and smooth.

Add the Egg and the Vanilla Extract and mix until combined.

Fold in the Flour gradually. The mix will be quite thick.

Add the chocolate chips. Line the bottom of your tin with greaseproof paper to help get the cookie cake out after baking.

Tip the cookie dough into the tin in a few lumps. This will make it easier to spread out. Try to spread the dough out into an even layer in the tin.

Bake at 160° Fan (170°) for 20 minutes, then reduce the heat to 140° for a further 5 minutes. The cookie cake will be a light golden brown colour and will feel soft but baked when pressed in the centre.

Run a thin spatula around the edge of the cookie and then leave until cool. Decorate with sweets/chocolate using melted chocolate to stick the decorations.

The cookie cake can be sliced like a pizza –or just popped in the centre of the table for all to break apart!

Enjoy! xxx

ADVERTISERS INDEX

DIRECTORY OF LOCAL BUSINESSES ADVERTISING IN DARTFORD LIVING

ACCOUNTS, BUSINESS, FINANCE AND LEGAL

Boats & Co

Downton & Ali Associates

Rebel Business School

Summit Wealth

CARE PROVIDERS

Home Instead

Visiting Angels

CHARITABLE ORGANISATIONS

Dartford Foodbank

ellenor

New Life Christian Community Foodbank

COUNCIL SERVICES / MEMBERS OF PARLIAMENT

Gareth Johnson MP

EDUCATION

Learning and Enterprise College

My Bluewater Tutor

Suzanne Art Studio

The Kent Foundation

ESTATE/LETTING AGENTS

Fox Estates

FLORISTS

Dartford Florist

GARAGES/VEHICLE SERVICES

Orchard Garage

HEALTH AND WELLBEING

Dartford Council Walk and Talk

Dartford Road Dental Centre

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

A Baines

Double Glazing Repair Man

GWS Plumbing and Bathrooms

Steve Cook

LEISURE/ENTERTAINMENT/THINGS TO DO

Bexley Park Comedy

Buccaneer Bay

Dartford Bandstand

Dartford Social Club

Orchard Theatre

Stanhill Farm - Maize Maze

Yamato Damashii

PARENT AND TODDLER

Baby Sign

Baby Sensory

Little Learners

Music Maestros

PHOTOGRAPHY

Garter Photography

PRINTERS

Darenth Print and Design

RELIGIOUS SERVICES

Crossways Community Church

RESTAURANTS, CAFES, FOOD OUTLETS

Efes

RETAIL

Bradleys Jewellers

Craft Frames

THINKING OF ADVERTISING?

We offer amazing value advertising with adverts starting from just £37.50 for a month. We don’t just take your money and add you to the magazine. We want to work with you to promote your businesses as much as we can using our website and social media channels for maximum exposure. We can also provide advertising options solely online on your website and/ or social media channels. We feel we have every base covered.

To book in an advert call 01322 507817 or email sales@dartfordliving.com

David Shafford

Magazine/ Website Design

YOUR NEXT DEADLINE IS: 15TH AUG 23

Dartford Borough Council Walk and Talk Groups

Healthy Living Walk - Mondays 10.00am (Contact the One You Team)

Dartford Heath Walk - Tuesdays 10.00am (Upper Heath Lane)

Darenth Country Park - Tuesdays 10.30am (Darenth Valley Hospital)

Swanscombe Castle Hill - Tuesdays 12.30pm

Greenhithe - Wednesdays 10.30am (St Mary’s Church)

Stone Pavilion Walk - Thursdays 9:30am

Central Park - Thursdays 11.30am (War Memorial)

Swanscombe - Fridays 10.00am

Swanscombe Castle Hill - Sundays 9.00am (Castle Hill Community Centre)

• Health walks are free and led by trained volunteer walk leaders

• Short social walks that last around an hour

• No need to book - just turn up

• Any age and ability welcome

For more details including starting points please contact the One You Kent team call 01322 343067 or email oneyou@dartford.gov.uk

• Great for people getting little or no exercise, recovering or suffering from an illness or lacking in confidence

• Dress for the weather including comfortable footwear