I’d like to welcome you to the latest issue of the magazine!
The magazine is jam-packed with lots of useful local information and fantastic local businesses. Please support as many as you can - use them or lose them! Like never before, our community needs the support of all of us.
In case you weren’t aware, David and I run Dartford Living alongside over 50 volunteer members of the local community. DL is the only independently run magazine, serving the local area with information 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 too!
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.
When you’ve finished reading the magazine please either keep it on your bookshelf, for when you need to use a local business, or pass it on to a friend or family member to read too.
Vijay
Editor - Dartford Living Magazine
(and of course David and the fantastic Dartford Living volunteer team)
Dartford St Johns Ambulance Badgers Awards
Community Heartbeat - Elizabeth
Harfleet
Painted Rocks
Smart moves: Tax Code
Recipe: Homemade Pizza
Kent Cruise Show
Sports News
Life Under the Stairs
On the Road
Back Pain
New research reveals attitudes towards later life
Where to go locally
Useful Numbers
Dartford Business Awards
Walking with the Darts Advertisers’ Index
DARTFORD LIVING MAGAZINE
The first Dartford Junior Chess Tournament
THE FIRST DARTFORD JUNIOR CHESS TOURNAMENT: A GREAT SUCCESS
By Dartford Chess Club
The Dartford Junior Chess Tournament, supported by Dartford Borough Council, had its first event on July 13th, at The Meeting Place in the Orchards Shopping Centre. This new tournament brought together young chess players from Dartford and nearby areas, creating a fun and competitive atmosphere.
A Day of Exciting Chess Matches
Many young players took part in the tournament, showing off their chess skills. Parents, coaches, and fans filled The Meeting Place, creating an exciting and supportive environment.
Nine-year-old Neil Balachander was the overall winner of the tournament. His impressive chess skills and calm approach helped him win match after match, showing everyone his deep understanding of the game.
In the Under 16 category, Anish Regmi took first place. Anish played with great tactics and strategy, earning him the top spot in his age group. His hard work and dedication were clear in every game.
Shaurya Sinha won the trophy for best newcomer. Shaurya’s enthusiasm and quick learning made him stand out as a promising new player in the world of junior chess. His achievement shows the importance of encouraging and supporting new players.
Special Awards and Medals for Everyone
Besides the main winners, many participants received special awards for their unique contributions and excellent performances.
These awards celebrated things like the best game, most improved player, and good sportsmanship, making sure every child’s effort was recognized.
All participants received medals, reminding them of their involvement in this special event and their love for chess.
Organizers and Support
The tournament was organized by the Dartford Junior Chess Club, which works hard to promote chess among young people. The support from Dartford Borough Council was crucial in making the tournament possible, providing a great venue and a supportive environment for the players.
Join the Dartford Junior Chess Club
The Dartford Junior Chess Club welcomes new members who are interested in learning and playing chess. The club offers a friendly community and opportunities for players of all levels to improve their skills. For more information and to join, visit their website at https://www.dartfordchess.com
A Bright Future for Junior Chess in Dartford
The success of the first Dartford Junior Chess Tournament has set a strong foundation for future events. With such enthusiastic participation and support, the future of junior chess in Dartford looks very promising. The tournament not only celebrated the talents of young chess players but also inspired many more to take up the game, ensuring the growth and development of chess in the community for years to come.
DARTFORD ST JOHN AMBULANCE BADGERS AWARDS 2024
By Sarah Young
Dartford Badgers recently held their annual awards evening and it was a pleasure to welcome special guests Councillor Darren Povey, Peter Longbottom OStJ (Dartford resident, active community member and Area Manager for St John Ambulance) Claire Maycock MStJ (District Youth Lead) and Jude Maskell on behalf of Dartford Living 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 5 subject badges- ranging from Active to Performance to St John Family.
I have been Unit Manager here at Dartford Badgers for almost 15 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 their promise.
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.
As always it was particularly difficult to choose our special recognition award recipients, because all of our members, always try the hardest, have exemplary behaviour and are a
pleasure to have in our Sett. Every single one has been a shining example of St John Ambulance and a credit to their families.
Dartford Badgers are very lucky to have wonderful Cadet Helpers, who help with the activities at our sessions. This year long serving Cadet Helper Miles Young was thrilled to present the Sue Dove Award for Effort to one of our newest members William. William is always helpful and puts in maximum effort in everything he does. Councillor Darren Povey joined in the distributing of recognitions, celebrating individual successes and presenting The Maggie Riley Award for Achievement to Daniel for always bringing humour and joy, enjoying all his sessions, trying really hard and never giving up. And Jude presented the Dartford Living Award for Badger of the year (on behalf of the whole DL Team) to Lacey for being a truly amazing Badger that shows all of the important values and skills, and for showing compassion and empathy.
Daniel has completed his Dartford Badger journey but he left a beautiful message to us “Thank you for all you have done, I have had so much fun, I will miss Badgers” Badgers will most certainly miss him too – we wish him all the success in the world for his very bright future
Badgers relies on the amazing volunteer helpers, that help me as manager to deliver all of the activities of the Badger programmeif you think you have what it takes to become part of our team Please visit www.sja.org.uk/ get-involved or email Sarah.Young@sja.org.uk for more information
For more information on St John Ambulance Badgers please visit www.sja.org.uk/getinvolved/young-people/badgers
WILMINGTON SUMMER FAIR
By Phil Burt
The Wilmington Summer Fair takes place on the green in Common Lane on Monday 26th August starting at 2pm. This traditional fair has been on the common for over 30 years and is sponsored by Wilmington Parish Council. There are normally about 40 stalls from local charities, organisations and small local businesses all wanting to show the villagers what they have to offer.
Just to mention a few stalls - there will be a tea tent provided by the Scouts where a welcome cuppa and piece of cake can be had, a burger stall and a licensed bar for a more serious drink. The Women’s Institute will be there with jams, Probus will have their ‘Win a Barrow of Booze’ raffle - about 30 bottle of wine beer and spirits - for just a £2 ticket, and lots of other stall with interesting and fun things to do and buy!
There will be arena events happening all afternoon too! We will have the old favourites such as Dartford Drums and Pipes and Peniel
Court who will be singing, along with some new groups such as the Wright Dance School and the Screaming Banshees Morris Dancers. We will also have a bouncy castle for the young ones and a soft play area for the even younger ones! The events culminate in our annual, highly contested ‘Egg Throwing Contest’ where pairs of people throw an egg to each other until it breaks, sometimes quite spectacularly all over them!
For the first time this year we are going to have a Fun Local Dog Show running alongside the arena events! We are having 6 classes but we are restricting it to just 10 dogs per class, so owners will need to register their dogs quickly!
All the money raised from the stallholders pitch fees and bouncy castle is given back to local charities and organisations. Last year this figure was just under a £1000.
MONDAY 26TH AUGUST
Our Community Kent
DARTFORD FOODBANK
COMMUNITY HEARTBEAT
DARTFORD LIVING MEETS: ELIZABETH HARFLEET.
Methodist Minister
What is a Deacon?
Within ordained ministry in the Methodist Church of Great Britain, there are both Presbyters (Reverend) and Deacons (Deacon) each having different but complementary roles within the life of the church. Whilst a Presbyter will typically be more focussed on pastoral oversight, preaching and the sacraments, a Deacon’s work tends to be more focussed on connecting church and community, enabling, encouraging, offering pastoral care and may also involve working and liaising with agencies outside of the church. Deacons are also members of the Methodist Diaconal Order, a dispersed religious order within the Methodist Church and, as such, we are committed to support and pray for each other. Deacons and presbyters are called to demonstrate God’s love in all contexts, together with care for the spiritual and pastoral wellbeing of those in the church and wider community.
What did you do before becoming a deacon?
My career path was certainly a varied one which I believe has helped to equip me for my current role. Before training for ordained ministry, I was a professional singer and vocal coach for 20 years. During that time I also trained as a Nutritional Therapist with my own practice in Manchester which ran alongside my musical activities.
How long have you worked in your current role and what brought you to Dartford?
I have been a deacon for 9 years and have lived and worked in Dartford for the past 5 years, based primarily at Spital Street and The Brent Methodist Churches, alongside two presbyteral colleagues. Methodist ministers usually move appointments every few years so, after spending 3 years with the Methodist Church in Scotland, serving churches in the Edinburgh area as part of the Forth Valley Methodist Circuit, I was appointed to the North Kent Methodist Circuit.
What does your work involve?
No two days are ever the same and not all my work is necessarily public facing. Amongst many other things, my regular work includes pastoral visits to church members, lots of meetings, attending church and community events, offering pastoral support at the Dartford Foodbank, leading acts of worship, conducting funerals, leading Care Home services, helping at Messy Church, writing articles and giving talks on health and nutrition at Dartford Wellbeing Link.
Do your family mind moving around the country?
Not at all! Serving with the Methodist Church has enabled us to live in some great places. As our daughter is married with her own family, it is just Graham and I who need to relocate. Graham is a private medical insurance broker and fortunately can operate his business, GH Health Solutions, from any location and looks after clients from all around the UK. In fact, Graham and GH Health Solutions appeared in last month’s ‘Dartford Living Meets’ feature.
What
is the next step for you?
After 5 enjoyable years in Dartford, Graham and I will be moving west to Bath during the summer where I will take up a new appointment in September. We have both very much enjoyed making new friends in Dartford and being part of Dartford Living – attending the Business Networking events and distributing Dartford Living Magazine in our local neighbourhood. We look forward to what lies ahead but we will miss you all!
To find out more about the Methodist Church in Dartford, please contact deaconeharfleet@gmail.com
Local people from Dartford Painted Rocks on Facebook have been busy this month painting and hiding them around town The rocks can also be exchanged at Stephen
PAINTED ROCKS
By Maria Kingsford
an Gallery located in the Orchard Shopping Centre.
Here are some great photos of their painted rocks
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.
Oliver: Studio
LOCAL BUSINESS
SMART MOVES: CHECK YOUR TAX CODE IS CORRECT AND PAY THE
CORRECT AMOUNT OF TAX
By Simpson Wreford LLP
The purpose of the PAYE system is to collect the right amount of tax from earnings throughout the course of the year. Employers use tax codes to work out how much tax to deduct from an employee’s earnings.
However, if individuals have an incorrect tax code, they can pay the wrong amount of tax –either too much or, perhaps more worryingly, too little. Individuals should check their PAYE code regularly as it is much easier to rectify mistakes before the tax year ends. The code in use will be shown on the current payslip.
UK Tax Codes
A UK tax code is a combination of numbers and letters used by HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) and your employer or pension provider to calculate the amount of Income Tax to deduct from your pay or pension. The most common tax code for people with one job or pension is 1257L.
The numbers in your tax code represent your tax-free income for the tax year. For example, if you’re entitled to the standard tax-free Personal Allowance of £12,570 and you also get a company benefit worth £1,570, your tax-free Personal Allowance becomes £11,000, making your tax code 1100L.
The letters in your tax code refer to your situation and how it affects your Personal Allowance: L - means you’re entitled to the standard taxfree Personal Allowance
M & N - are related to the Marriage Allowance BR – all your income is taxed at the basic rate (20%)
D0 – all your income is taxed at the higher rate (40%)
D1 - all your income is taxed at the additional rate (45%)
T – there is an adjustment in your code
K – other income has reduced your allowances to less than zero
Marriage Allowance
The Marriage Allowance is a tax benefit that allows you to transfer £1,260 of your Personal Allowance to your spouse or civil partner, reducing their tax by up to £252 in the tax year. To qualify, you must be married or in a civil partnership, not pay Income Tax or have an income below your Personal Allowance (usually £12,570), and your partner must pay Income Tax at the basic rate.
For example, if your income is £11,500 and your partner’s income is £20,000, claiming the Marriage Allowance means you will now pay tax on £190, but your partner will only pay tax on £6,170. As a couple, you benefit as you are only paying Income Tax on £6,360 rather than £7,430, saving you £214 in tax.
Contacting HMRC
If you believe your tax code is incorrect, you can contact HMRC through an online form, webchat, by phone, or by post. For help with questions about PAYE and Income Tax, including issues with your tax code, tax overpayments or underpayments, and Marriage Allowance, you can call HMRC at 0300 200 3300. Remember to have your National Insurance number with you when you phone.
In conclusion, understanding your tax code and the benefits of the Marriage Allowance can help you manage your taxes effectively. If you have any doubts or questions, don’t hesitate to contact HMRC for assistance.
DELICIOUS HOMEMADE PIZZA RECIPE
By Debbie Dickinson from the Little Lavinia Bakery
You may have noticed that I’m a massive fan of easy recipes – and if the kids can get involved that’s even better!
This month I’m sharing a couple of pizza recipes – one traditional, that takes a little time. And one, that the kids can go wild with!!!
Both recipes can be adapted by adding herbs/ spices. And both can be baked without the toppings to make a delicious flatbread.
Pizza the traditional Way!
You will need:
300g Plain Flour
1 tsp Salt
1 tsp Sugar
1 x 7g Sachet of Fast Action Dried Yeast
200ml tepid Water
2 tbsp Oil
Toppings:
Tomato Puree/BBQ Sauce/Tomato Ketchup
Toppings of your choice
Cheese
What to do.
Put your Flour into a large bowl and pop the Salt, Sugar and Yeast in separate piles around the edge of the bowl. Place the Oil into the Water.
Make a dip in the middle of the flour and slowly add the Water/Oil mix gradually combining the flour in as you go. You may not need all the flour! Once you have a mixture that has incorporated all the ingredients, you can use your hands to knead the dough for a few minutes, until you have a smooth, elastic ball of dough. Cover with a loose sheet of cling film and leave
to rise for an hour or so to allow the dough to rise.
After an hour, divide the mix into 3 and flatten into pizza bases. You can either pull and stretch the dough or use a rolling pin to get the base as thin as you like. You could try adding a ‘stuffed crust’ if you’re feeling adventurous!
Spread a layer of your chosen sauce onto the base then add your toppings.
Bake at 200C (or 180C Fan) for about 10 minutes or until pizza is cooked.
Or with the kids, let’s have some fun!!
Let them put some flour in a bowl (Self Raising or Plain is fine, Wholemeal and Strong Bread Flour will also work))
Add some liquid to make a dough! Yep – let them choose anything (obviously edible!)
Plain Yoghurt or Coconut Milk make really good dough, but we’ve also used water, veg stock, lemonade, Tango and even Pot Noodle juice (after the noodles have cooked) And it always works!
Add just enough liquid to make a kneadable dough. Knead for a few minutes and leave to rest for a little while. Depending on you flour/ liquid combination, the dough will probably not rise as the traditional pizza dough.
Continue to flatten and add toppings as above! Or, shape this dough into breadsticks and other shapes, and simply bake.
Enjoy!
£50 Cruise Voucher per ticket! Meet with cruise lines! Exclusive event deals! Tickets are free!
Tickets are limited, reserve yours here: www.hardenholidays.co.uk/cruiseshow
Or scan the QR code opposite Alternatively, give us a call or pop in and see us.
Here at Harden Holidays we believe that every holiday ought to be a wonderful experience that leaves you with fond memories. It is no secret how much we love cruising and we believe everyone should try it at least once as there is a cruise line for each taste and budget out there – the offering has never been as extensive as it is today. There is nothing better than simply waking up in the morning in the world’s most exciting and interesting places.
This is why we have decided to put on a cruise show in Dartford where you can meet the representatives of a large range of cruise lines – ask them your burning questions, and collect some goodies along the way.
Whether you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime expedition cruise to an exotic destination, a sumptuous luxury voyage, maybe a relaxing cultural river cruise or a family cruise holiday with lots to entertain all ages – the Kent Cruise Show will have it all.
Filled with information and inspiration, you can enjoy exclusive moneysaving show offers and upgrades, gain essential expert advice that you won’t find in the brochures, discover different ships and cruising styles to incredible destinations and hear directly from the cruise lines about what’s new for 2025/26.
So, if you are completely new to cruising and intrigued to discover what it’s all about, or you are a seasoned cruiser wanting inspiration for your next adventure, then make sure you join us at the Kent Cruise Show.
By Bhavesh Ganesh
England’s quest to end their 58-year curse was dashed yet again as Spain claimed victory in the Euro 2024 final at Berlin’s Olympiastadion. Gareth Southgate’s lads had their hearts shattered by a late goal from Spain’s Mikel Oyarzabal, continuing England’s streak as the perennial nearly-men of European football.
The night started promisingly enough, with England fans outnumbering their Spanish counterparts, convinced that the long-awaited triumph was at hand. But just two minutes into the second half, Spain’s young stars decided to spoil the party. Lamine Yamal’s crafty pass set up Nico Williams, who coolly slotted the ball past Jordan Pickford.
Harry Kane, seemingly more lost than a tourist without a map, was subbed out on the hour mark. Enter Cole Palmer, who sparked hope with a sublime left-foot strike to level the score. The dream comeback seemed within reach—cue the dramatic music.
But alas, football is a cruel mistress. With four minutes left, Oyarzabal pounced on a cross from Marc Cucurella to break English hearts once more. Declan Rice and Marc Guehi’s headers were heroically cleared off the line, sealing England’s fate.
The final whistle confirmed yet another “so close yet so far” moment for England.
DARTFORD business AWARDS
Visit www.dartfordbusinessawards.co.uk/awards
Or contact businessawards@dartford.gov.uk
The Dartford Business Awards are now officially open for 2024
With several categories available, all free to enter and designed to cater for size of business, from the small in the Borough.
Entrants must be based in the Dartford Borough Council rates areas, and have been trading for a full year to January 1st, 2024.
To enter your business, visit www.dartfordbusinessawards.co.uk/awa and apply by Sunday 8th September.
LIFE UNDER THE STAIRS
By Jane Stevenson
NEW BROOMS?
We can all breath again; the election is over, new faces are installed in the corridors of power, old ones consigned to the annals of history. No more interminable radio and tv coverage of ministers ‘getting down with the people’ in order to secure our vote!
I read the manifestos of the top three parties. I felt I should. I’d like to say it was interesting, informative or even amusing, but it wasn’t. They were very similar, and I feared that we may well exchange one set of losers for another.
However, a week after the rather unsurprising results, people seem more relaxed, buoyant, hopeful that this new government will bring about the changes we so desperately need for better services, reductions in the cost of living and general wellbeing for us all. Maiden speeches seem frank and fair. No one in the new government is pretending that all is well. It will be a long haul before we see any beneficial changes for us. For our part, we should accept there is no quick fix.
With friends, I discussed this over coffee and cake last week. None of us are starry eyed about life’s prospects in the mid-term. At our age, the need for new dentures, proper health care at a local surgery and the other minutiae of older age take precedent.
We are the lucky ones. Mortgages paid off, the need for the new less important. The fight that younger people have for anything approaching what many of us took for granted is both an insult to them and deeply sad.
Let’s put aside our natural cynicism, and hope that the new, shiny government, will do their best to repair our broken country. Priorities depend on your age, and Labour have an uphill struggle to keep us all happy. Let’s give them a chance.
WHAT INFLUENCE?
‘Influencers’. Who? What? Why?
Depending on your perception, this is either someone who influences others to buy products or follow ideas which they promote via social media. Another definition is “… a word people on social media use to describe themselves to
make them feel famous and/or more important; when in reality no one really cares or even knows…”
The list of well-known influencers is long and contains celebrities, sporting people, entrepreneurs and those that were in the right place at the right time.
The most important influencer doesn’t appear on any of these lists. This is The Parent - surely the best and most important example in our lives?
From our earliest days, our parents exert different influences over us. We learn behaviours, manners, morals and ethics from them, which in turn we can pass onto our own children. We are dependent that our own learning, which we demonstrate in actions and deeds gives a solid grounding to future generations.
My parents certainly influenced me; I love learning, reading and creating. However, I also have a fascination for American TV series, the hippie culture, rock music and poor taste in shoes! None of those were influenced by my parents. I managed that all on my own!
Perhaps the ‘influence’ here, was to give me the ability to make these choices? In which case they did a pretty good job. Being very conservative people (note the small ‘c’), I’m not certain what they would make of this ageing enfant terrible, with tattoos and coloured hair, who can still be caught playing air guitar in the privacy of her own home.
I suspect my mother would quietly weep into a small, neatly pressed hanky and pray the neighbours never saw. My dad would pay stern lip service to my antics, but probably secretly laugh at me.
Whatever, their reactions, through their parental influence, I’m able to make these decisions about my life without trepidation.
To my mind, this is the best type of influencing. Allowing our children to grow, mature and take a confident approach to their own lives is us, ticking all those boxes.
Well done all the parents, step-parents, wider family, guardians and carers who have stepped up to the mark. Have a gold star.
Take care all
In this month’s edition we’ll look at new SUV models coming out in 2024 including an old classic re-created for the electric market.
2025 Fiat Grande Panda – this is a small SUV gets mild hybrid and electric power in a yellow colour to attract attention. The car’s headlights are LED units which form part of a checked visor running the width of the Panda. The mild hybrid expected to be most popular with a 99bhp 1.2-litre petrol engine and a small electric motor. The electric version, meanwhile, is powered by a 111bhp electric motor and a 43.7kWh (usable) battery that delivers an official range of 195 miles. Inside, a large oval-shaped instrument binnacle houses a 10in digital driver’s display and 10.25in touchscreen, the latter of which houses a new infotainment system that has the potential to use artificial intelligence for the voice controls. When on sale in December 2024 it is expected to be competitively priced for a SUV starting from around £20,000.
Renault Symbioz family SUV – this is a new family SUV that focuses on practicality, offering up to 624 litres of boot space and a sliding rear bench seat. It will offer a E-Tech 145 hybrid system, which combines a 1.6-litre petrol engine and two electric motors for a total of 143bhp. Similar to the Renault Captur it will have an identical front end, with a fauxgrille design, slim LED headlights and stacked LED daytime running lights. Around the rear end it has a distinctive look of its own, with 3D-effect LED tail lights and a higher window line. Every model gets a configurable 10.25in digital instrument panel, with a central portrait-
NEW SUV MODELS
By Dhiren Ganesh
oriented infotainment touchscreen nearby, powered by Google. Its boot is a large 624-litres which is larger than competitors and the staring price is around £29,250 which is also cheaper. It can be ordered now with deliveries from late September 2024.
2024 Ford Capri – now a modern EV with a range of up to 390 miles. Ford have created a Coupe SUV with an elevated driving position loved by so many. Detailing has been taken from the classic Capris when it came to the headlights and the shape of the side windows. The bestselling Capri is likely to be the 77kWh Extended Range RWD (rear-wheel drive), because this will be the most affordable version at launch and can officially travel up to 389 miles between charges – this is more than some of its rivals. The interior of the new Capri is lifted from the Ford Explorer almost unchanged, so the dashboard is dominated by a huge, 14.6in touchscreen. The boot is large at 572-litres which is far more than rivals. It will be priced around £48,075 and will be on sale late 2024.
2025 Fiat Grande Panda Renault Symbioz family SUV
2024 Ford Capri
SUMMER SHOWS AT ORCHARD WEST
Back pain is a common problem that affects people of all ages. It can range from a dull, constant ache to a sudden, sharp pain that makes it difficult to move. Understanding the causes, prevention, and treatment options can help manage back pain effectively.
Causes of Back Pain
Back pain can arise from various factors, often involving the muscles, ligaments, nerves, or bones in the spine. Common causes include:
1. Muscle or Ligament Strain: Heavy lifting or abrupt movements can strain back muscles and spinal ligaments. Poor physical condition or repetitive stress can also cause painful muscle spasms.
2. Bulging or Ruptured Discs: Discs act as cushions between the bones (vertebrae) in the spine. When a disc bulges or ruptures, it can press on a nerve, causing back pain.
3. Arthritis: Osteoarthritis can affect the lower back. In some cases, arthritis in the spine can lead to a narrowing of the space around the spinal cord, a condition called spinal stenosis.
4. Spine abnormalities: Conditions like scoliosis, where the spine curves to the side, can lead to back pain.
5. Osteoporosis: This condition makes bones porous and brittle, and can lead to painful fractures in the spine.
Prevention of Back Pain
There is a lot we can do to prevent back pain:
1. Exercise Regularly: Engage in activities that strengthen your core muscles, such as walking, swimming, or specific exercises like Pilates. Strong core muscles support your spine and help prevent back pain.
2. Maintain Good Posture: When sitting, especially for long periods, use a chair with good lower back support. Keep your feet flat on the floor and your knees slightly higher than your hips. When standing, distribute your weight evenly on both feet and avoid slouching.
3. Lift Properly: When lifting heavy objects, bend your knees and use your legs rather than your back. Keep the object close to your body and avoid twisting your back while lifting.
4. Maintain a Healthy Weight: Excess weight can put extra strain on your back. A balanced diet and regular exercise can help maintain a healthy weight.
5. Quit Smoking: Smoking reduces blood flow to the lower spine, which can contribute to spinal disc degeneration.
BACK PAIN
By Dr Julie Taylor
Treatment of Back Pain
If you experience back pain, several treatments can provide relief:
1. Rest and Activity Modification: Short periods of rest can help, but prolonged bed rest is not recommended. Gradually return to your normal activities as the pain subsides.
2. Over-the-Counter Medications: Paracetamol and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can help reduce pain and inflammation. Speak to your pharmacist for advice and always follow the dosage instructions.
3. Heat and Cold: Applying a cold pack can reduce inflammation, while a heating pad can relieve muscle tension and pain.
4. Physiotherapy: A physiotherapist can teach you exercises to improve your flexibility, strengthen your back and abdominal muscles, and improve your posture.
5. Alternative Therapies: Treatments such as acupuncture, chiropractic care, and massage therapy can provide relief for some individuals. Some people find TENS machines helpful.
6. Prescription Medications and Injections: For severe pain, doctors may prescribe stronger pain killers or refer you to a pain specialist for injections.
Red flag symptoms
While most back pain improves with self-care, you should contact your GP surgery if you have back pain:
- that is severe or doesn’t improve with rest - after a fall or injury - accompanied by unexplained weight loss - with numbness or tingling in the legs - with difficulty controlling your bladder or bowel (this is an emergency)
Conclusion
Back pain can be a debilitating condition, but understanding its causes and adopting preventive measures can significantly reduce the risk. Regular exercise, good posture, and proper lifting techniques are key. If back pain does occur, various treatments are available, from home remedies to professional medical interventions. Always seek medical advice if you have any red flag symptoms.
NEW RESEARCH REVEALS ATTITUDES TOWARDS LATER LIFE
By Christina Uppenkamp - Home Instead
Welcome to Senior Snippets: the monthly advisory column with older members of our community in mind, brought to you by Christina Uppenkamp of Home Instead Dartford.
New research from home care company Home
Instead UK has revealed that the stereotype of ‘old people’ is completely out of date. Many retirees now enjoy an active, healthy lifestyle and a lust of life most often associated with younger generations.
Here are the top 10 facts that were uncovered. Staying healthy & active
• 89% of over-75s have an undiminished appetite for life agreeing on the need to stay active as you get older
• 66% of all respondents endorse diet and exercise as a means to stay youthful
• But there is also frustration with an average 58% agreeing that older people are not encouraged enough to play sport.
Love and relationships
• 61% of all respondents say they want to remain sexually active as they get older
• For those over 75, over half (53%) want to remain sexually active
• 50% of all respondents would be open to looking for love and be happy to start dating if they found themselves alone when older.
How the old are excluded
Rather than fearing tech, older adults increasingly embrace it and want more products aimed at them including AI to combat loneliness.
What we fear most as we age
• People are more concerned about the prospect of ending up in a care home (44%) than they would be about the death of a partner (36%)
• 80% say that if they were to become ill then they would prefer to be treated at home - rising to 91% among the oldest age group
• The specific conditions that people are afraid of: Alzheimer’s, other forms of dementia and cancer.
We’d love to hear from you if you think you can help or if you would like to make a suggestion for a future topic. Please write to me, Christina at:
c.uppenkamp@dartford.homeinstead.co.uk or by post to Home Instead Dartford, St Fidelis House, St Fidelis Road, Erith, DA8 1AT. Alternatively, you can also call me on 01322 923750.
I’m delighted to have been elected as Dartford’s new Member of Parliament.
I intend to be a visible, active MP representing the whole community.
I’m in the process of setting up my office but if you have any matters that need my attention, please email me at:
jim.dickson.mp@parliament.uk
THE DARTFORD BUSINESS AWARDS ARE OPEN FOR 2024 LOCAL BUSINESS
By Dartford Borough Council
The Dartford Business Awards are back for 2024, and will celebrate the inspiring companies and individuals who have given so much to the borough.
As ever, Dartford Borough Council is organising the awards with several core partners, sponsors and local ambassadors. There are a number of different awards categories; all of which are free to enter and designed to cater for every size of business, from the smallest to the largest in the borough.
This year’s categories are:
• Best Owner-Managed Business – sponsored by The Nucleus Business & Innovation Centre, Oxford Innovation Space and ARC UK
• Employee of the Year - sponsored by The Learning Shop and Fairfield Leisure
• Young Person of the Year – sponsored by North Kent College and Leigh Academies Trust / LAT Apprenticeships
• The Dartford Living Customer’s Choice Award – sponsored by Dartford Living
• Shop of the Year – sponsored by Bluewater
• The Green Award – sponsored by FCC Environment
• The Good for the Community Award –sponsored by Amazon LCY3
• The Good for Society Award – sponsored by Downton & Ali Associates and Fox Estate Agents We are delighted that Made in Kent Radio are also sponsoring the Awards again as our official media partner.
Entrants and winners can expect to receive a number of business-building benefits, such as promotion through media and networking opportunities. To enter your business into the Dartford Business Awards, you must be based in the Dartford Borough Council business rates
areas, and must have been trading for a full year to January 1st, 2024.
Leader of the Council Jeremy Kite MBE said: “The Dartford Business Awards are back again after another great year for local companies. It goes without saying that our businesses have been doing an amazing job in providing an exceptional service for the people of Dartford.
It’s always an evening I look forward to and with eight awards up for grabs this year there’s plenty of opportunity for organisations, big and small, to be rewarded for their achievements.”
Lead Member for Business Councillor Avtar Sandhu MBE said: “Each year we have more and more local businesses coming together to celebrate their successes at the Dartford Business Awards. The Dartford business community never fails to amaze me with what they can achieve throughout the year and I’m looking forward to recognising their efforts on the evening.”
To enter or submit your nomination by the deadline of Monday 2nd September, visit www.dartfordbusinessawards.co.uk, or contact businessawards@dartford.gov. uk to find out more. You can also follow the Awards on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ dartfordbusinessawards or on X/Twitter at www. twitter.com/dartford_biz.
The awards evening takes place on Thursday 10th October at Bluewater Shopping Centre. The 2024 Dartford Business Awards are sponsored by:
Amazon LCY3, ARC UK, Bluewater Shopping Centre, Dartford Borough Council, Dartford Living, Downton & Ali Associates, Fairfield Leisure, FCC Environment, Fox Estate Agents, Leigh Academies Trust, LAT Apprenticeships, Made in Kent Radio, North Kent College, Oxford Innovation Space, , The Learning Shop, The Nucleus Business & Innovation Centre
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.
The Dartford First Team has been making good progress in it’s pre-season preparations since I last wrote in these pages. At the time of writing, we have played three pre-season friendlies and the signs are looking much more positive than this time last year.
Despite losing 6-1 against Charlton Athletic in front of a bumper crowd at Bericote Powerhouse Princes Park in our pre-season opener, the players made a good account of themselves against a full-time professional EFL League One outfit. New signing Callum Jones scored a delightful consolation goal for the Darts in that fixture.
Since then, Adrian Pennock’s side has travelled to Margate (2-2) and hosted Ashford United,
where the lads registered a 3-1 win in a solid performance. Ben Allen scored at Margate, while a Trialist netted the Darts’ second at Hartsdown Park. Meanwhile, Olly Box, Callum Jones, and Ashdon Day all scored against Ashford United on a lovely Saturday afternoon in July.
Whilst performances have differed, the early signs are certainly looking promising as Adrian’s rebuilding continues and the players begin to gel as a unit. And, another stern test follows with Gillingham coming to town on Tuesday night, then Sutton United arrive at the weekend.
Unfortunately, defender Dwight Pascal has left the club for reasons undisclosed. But, Adrian has added more significant signings to his squad since my last article.
Dartford Academy Graduate Sam Odaudu has put pen to paper to remain at the club for another season. The left-back has been joined
Men’s team photos by Carol White-Griffiths, Women’s` team photos: Taur Everard
by former Dart, Josh Hill, who will wear the Captain’s armband this season. The experienced centre-half is joined by defender Luther Williams, midfielder Tyler Christian-Law, and young right winger Gabe Campbell.
Do keep an eager eye out for more news and latest signings on the club’s website and official social media platforms.
As for Connor Dymond and Martin McCarthy’s Dartford FC Women side, they took part in their first pre-season friendly against Real Bedford recently. Despite goals from Georgie Davies and Xayla-Rae Alberts, the Darts ended up on the losing side by a 3-2 scoreline. However, the game proved to be a vital one as the squad begins preparing for the challenges ahead.
Perhaps the biggest news to come out of the Dartford FC Women’s camp is the fact that they will be playing their home games on the main pitch for the 2024-25 campaign. And, Martin McCarthy shared his delight in a recent interview on our website...
“It’s a huge honour for the girls to be back playing in the stadium this season.
“Playing at Princes Park is massive, not just for the ladies, but it also helps us as a management team attract better players that can help us fulfil the club’s ambitions.
“Last season, the team received huge plaudits for their success, and deservedly so. Their style of football, their unwavering mentality, and ultimately their professionalism, all stems from the new set-up at the club, and so the decision to see the ladies playing in the stadium this season will give supporters who watch the men’s team, the opportunity to experience the women’s game, too.
“From day one, the team has understood that their immediate success will help attendances grow and the last 12 months have proved this. Their work in the community and in driving the growth in women’s football in the area, is helping this too and is a testament to their determination.
“By being back in the stadium, we believe attendances will continue to grow and so we hope to welcome many new Dartford supporters to experience our football next season and join us on our exciting journey.”
As far is the squad is concerned, Connor Dymond and Martin McCarthy have bolstered the team with the additions of Abbey Davies, Poppy Payne, and Amy Russ. Please do check out the Dartford FC Women’s social media platforms for more information on these new signings. As always, thank you for your continued support and thanks for reading.
ADVERTISERS INDEX
ACCOUNTS, BUSINESS, FINANCE AND LEGAL
Apprico
Dartford Business Awards
Downton & Ali Associates
Simpson Wreford LLP
Urban Sticks
CARE PROVIDERS
Home Instead
CHARITABLE ORGANISATIONS
Dartford Foodbank
Demelza
ellenor
Mencap
ESTATE/LETTING AGENTS
Bricks4cash
Fox Estates
Gary Lintorn
FARM SHOP
Stanhill Farm
FLORISTS
Dartford Florist
GARAGES/VEHICLE SERVICES
AA
Orchard Garage
HEALTH AND WELLBEING
Be True 2 U Therapies
Dartford Council Walk and Talk
Dartford Road Dental
Slimming World
HOME IMPROVEMENTS/ CLEANING
A Baines
Double Glazing Repair Man
Marriner Electrical
Steve Cook
Zero Dry Time
LEISURE/ENTERTAINMENT/THINGS TO DO
Bexley Park Comedy
Bandstand
Dartford Social Club
Dartford Music Festival
Orchard West
The Mick Jagger Centre
Yamato
Music Maestros
PRINTERS
Darenth Print and Design
OPTICIANS
Vision Eyewear and Eyecare
RESTAURANTS, CAFES, FOOD OUTLETS
Cadiz Tapas Bar
Efes Turkish Restaurant
Green Spice
Growler Stop
Subway Time and Plaice
RETAIL
Bradleys Jewellers
Craft Frames
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To book in an advert call 01322 507817 or email sales@dartfordliving.com
David Shafford
Magazine/ Website Design
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)
