I’d like to wish all our readers a Merry Christmas and 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)
Sydnie Christmas Interview
Dartford Living meets: Father Christmas DSTC Photo competition
Recipe: Gingerbread house Christmas Party Tax-Free Allowance Christmas in Dartford Travel: The gift of travel
Beating the Winter Blues
Combatting scams and keeping older people safe Life Under the Stairs
to go locally
with the Darts
DARTFORD LIVING MAGAZINE
Christmas came early to Orchard West on Monday 28th October for the launch of this year’s pantomime, Sleeping Beauty. I was delighted to chat with Sydnie Christmas - a singer and actress who won Britain’s Got Talent (BGT) earlier this year. She is a local lady (born in Sidcup). She has been very open about applying to BGT because she wanted to work in the West End of London but the work she was getting was generally taking her overseas. She had applied to BGT several times but this year proved to be the charm – and she has certainly charmed lots of people since she took the BGT title for 2024 and stunned everyone in the audience with her amazing voice. She made a point to thank the audience present for their support as she was sure that it was us locals voting for her that tipped the votes in her favour!
I asked her what her favourite memory was from being on BGT. She replied that it was when she sang ‘My Way’. She explained that she had been extremely nervous as she reached singing the last note of the song, but that those nerves had vanished when she looked up and saw a sea of wristbands glowing and swaying in the audience. In fact her ‘Auntie Tina’ gave her one of those wristbands afterwards as a memento. People who watched BGT probably remember Sydnie’s audition and her being told that Simon Cowell hates the song ‘Tomorrow’. Sydnie described the awful feeling this gave her on top of already feeling nervous but the audience felt so supportive – she had already been on stage talking to the judges for seven minutes – that she decided to stick with it and thought, ‘Let’s try and change his mind.’ The rest is history!
Our conversation then moved on to what had surprised her most since winning BGT. Her response was the ‘whole experience’ (as it had taken 4 attempts to get on to the show) and everything that has happened since has been amazing. Work flooded in from the instant she
SYDNIE CHRISTMAS INTERVIEW LOCAL ENTERTAINMENT
By Lisa Roach
won. In fact Sydnie was so busy that it took the BGT team 2 weeks to catch up with her in order to pay her the prize money!
Sydnie has released an album called ‘My Way’ and has stressed that all of the tracks on the album presented themselves to her either because they have a special meaning to her or struck a chord with her. For example the version of ‘Over the Rainbow’ she has included was performed by Lauren Allred (an idol of Sydnie’s) in February 2024 and Lauren gave Sydnie permission to use it whilst they were Facetiming ahead of the live shows.
We moved on to talking about where Sydnie sees herself in 5 years’ time. “The amazing thing is not knowing,” was her reply. She mentioned that she felt honoured as she would soon be singing in Los Angeles as part of David Foster’s 75th birthday celebrations with the likes of Michael Bublé, Jennifer Hudson and Andrea Bocelli. She has always admired David Foster and it was something that she could only have dreamed of just months ago!
She continued to explain that she would love to play the role of Calamity Jane one day as the role resonates with her. “She is me, a blossoming lady, but someone who can get down with the blokes and Doris Day was amazing.”
Sydnie will be performing at the Royal Variety Performance on 22nd November 2024 as a result of winning BGT. She described herself as being “mega excited and there is no verb to describe how I feel to be honest.” The producers chose a song called ‘Believer’ from her album that was originally released by Imagine Dragons and how she had put a ‘Bond’ feel on the track as she would love to record a Bond theme. She described how all the acts for the Royal Variety Performance would probably have one day to rehearse which would mean her possibly running through the song twice before the live performance.
Sydnie is massively looking forward to performing in Sleeping Beauty at Dartford West this Christmas partly because it means she will actually be able to spend her first Christmas at home having been working away from home for many years.
For our full interview with Sydnie and others performing in the Orchard West panto, please visit www.dartfordliving.com
BEXLEY PARK SPORTS AND SOCIAL CLUB - EVENTS
Friday 27th December 2024
Mike Gunn’s history is as interesting and entertaining as his comedy. A misspent youth and a series of grim jobs cultivated his cynical outlook on life and a perverse desire led him to the world of stand-up.
A self-confessed pessimist, he describes himself as “not a natural choice for a career in laughter”.
He has a rare ability to walk close to the line of what audiences find acceptable and yet still remain likeable and funny.
His reputation for being a bit unfriendly, a touch dark and even morose is really not true. In real life he’s loving, warm and philanthropic. Just a bit misunderstood.
Television appearances include Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow (BBC1), Celebrity Deal or no Deal (CH 4), Harry Hill’s TV Burp (ITV), Al Murray’s sitcom ‘Time Gentlemen Please’ (Sky), Soccer AM (Sky 1), The Comedy Store (Comedy Central),
Live At Jongleurs (CH5), and The Gas (CH4). He is a regular on the Sky Poker channel and has also been a contributor for The Guardian.
He has written for Time Out, The List, The 11 O’Clock Show (CH4) and Match of The Day Magazine. even though he hates football.
For ticket information visit www.houseofstandup.co.uk/dartford/ 0800 9992044.
Bexley Park Sports & Social Club
Friday 3rd January 2025
Doors open 7.00pm show starts 8.30pm
Tickets £15.00 – Seating plan in operation
Friday 3rd January 2025
The West End Jerseys are back.
Come and enjoy the iconic sound of one of the most successful bands of the 50s and 60s.
Marvel at that unmistakable falsetto sound of Frankie Valli, lovingly recreated by some of the nation’s best vocalists.
Add to that, slick routines, tight harmonies, and above all, the experience and professionalism to match, and this really is an act you will want to book over and over again.
All four members of WEST END JERSEYS have appeared in London's West End amongst a huge variety of other performing engagements.
The band themselves have played at every venue imaginable, from someone’s front room, working men’s clubs, through to 5-star hotels, open air festivals, and commercial theatres.
Their experience and talent is unrivalled in the Jersey Boys tribute world.
For ticket information visit www.bexleypark. co.uk What’s on page, scan the QR Code or purchase them directly from the club bar at £15.00.
For ticket purchases please scan the QR Code
DARTFORD LIVING MEETS: FATHER CHRISTMAS COMMUNITY HEARTBEAT
By Paul Williams
What shall I call you?
Oh, I have many names and they’re different all over the world, some of my names are Father Christmas, Santa Claus, St Nicholas, Papa Noel, Kris Kringle, Babbo Natale, Pere Noel and so many more.
Is the Santa at the shopping centre really you?
It might or might not be me, I try to get out and meet as many children as possible but when things get busy, it could be one of my helpers and they share your Christmas wishes directly with me.
Why do you deliver gifts?
I love to give gifts and I hope this encourages people to be selflessly generous to others.
Do you appreciate the food and drink left out for you and your reindeer?
Yes, very much so, it’s very physical work, delivering gifts to people all around the world… and all in one night, so both my reindeer and I are very grateful.
LOCAL FEATURE
DSTC PHOTO COMPETITION
By Matthew Allen
For the last three years students and staff at DSTC have been invited to take part in a photography competition that is part of a running schedule of House events that we run at DSTC. The House system is designed to promote values like self responsibility, equality, solidarity and to work as a community. It connects our students, no matter their age, and encourages a competitive spirit.
This year’s photography theme was elements. This was chosen as it can inspire a wide range of starting points like fire, weather events, landscapes, water, plant life and animals for example. It also encourages students to look outside at the wider world.
Participants submit their work digitally and then the photos are displayed in school, where three winning entries are chosen by the House captains and House leaders.
How do you manage to deliver all the gifts in one night?
Well, the time zone I work in, is Christmastime. The Christmastime zone is different from other time zones and this allows me to travel the world in one night.
Do you really exist?
Ho ho ho! Rest assured, Santa is alive and well in the hearts and minds of children all over the world.
Who is your favourite reindeer?
I don’t have a favourite reindeer, each one of them has a valuable part to play in our team and I love all of them.
Do you have a message for our readers?
Yes, I’d like to ask you to be good and kind to others, I think the world needs more kindness and understanding and it starts with you. On Christmas eve, go to bed early and please don’t forget to leave me a snack and finally I’d like to wish all your readers a very happy Christmastime.
For the full interview with the big man, search for ‘Vijay Your Questions’ on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.
Every person who takes part receives a House point and the winners receive prizes. This year nearly 180 photos were submitted.
The winners were Anastasia N-first place [bottom]
Isla R-Second place [top left] Verity L-Third place [top right]
Monday 2nd December 2024 @ 9.30am Thursday 9th January 2025 @9.30am
RECIPE
GINGERBREAD HOUSE
By Debbie Dickinson from the Little Lavinia Bakery
These are a great, delicious treat to make with the kids for Christmas! And easier than you would imagine! In our house I make the gingerbread and assemble, then leave my partner and the kids to decorate! Chaos! As always, you can adjust the amount of spice you add or experiment with other flavours in the recipe.
You will need:
• 125g block butter
• 150g dark brown sugar
• 100g golden syrup
• 400g plain flour
• 1 egg
• 1tsp bicarbonate of soda
• 3tsp ground ginger
• 1tsp mixed spice
• Royal Icing Sugar or ready made Royal Icing.
• A selection of chocolates and sweets for decoration.
What to do:
Melt the butter, sugar and golden syrup gently in a pan until the sugar has dissolved.
Measure the dry ingredients into a large bowl and mix in the egg.
Add the butter/sugar mix into the dry ingredients and mix until all the flour has been combined and you have a nice smooth dough.
Pop the dough in the fridge to chill for at least an hour.
Roll dough out to a nice even thickness of about 5mm.
For the house you will need rectangles for the roof and triangles for the walls. I wrapped my November copy of Dartford Living magazine in cling film, laid it on my dough and used a pizza wheel to cut around it. Cut two of these. A good shape for the front and back walls is an equilateral triangle with all 3 sides the same length as the top edge of the DL magazine. You will need two of these as well.
Use festive cookie cutters to cut out shapes with the rest of the dough. Or cut different sized triangles to decorate as trees.
Pop the shapes back in the fridge for 15-20 minutes.
Bake in a preheated oven at 180° C for about 10 minutes until the edge of the shapes start to turn a darker brown.
Allow to cool fully.
Meanwhile make the icing according to the packet instructions. If you can’t find Royal Icing Sugar, use normal icing sugar and make to a thick consistency.
You can either spoon the icing or pop it into a piping bag. You could make your own piping bag using a sandwich/freezer bag. Fill with your icing then snip off the corner of the bag.
Use a cake board, chopping board or large flat plate to build your house on. Pipe a generous amount of icing along one edge of each triangle. Stand them up and place a roof rectangle on them. You can use a mug as support while the icing sets. Once set, repeat to attach the other roof piece.
Use the icing to attach sweets and chocolates on your house and pipe windows and door decorations.
Decorate your other shapes with icing and sweets.
Enjoy!
DARTFORD FOODBANK
CELEBRATE WITHOUT THE TAX BURDEN: UNDERSTANDING THE CHRISTMAS PARTY TAX-FREE ALLOWANCE
As the festive season approaches, many employers are planning their annual Christmas parties. These events are a fantastic way to boost employee morale, foster team spirit, and show appreciation for hard work throughout the year. But did you know that you can host these celebrations without incurring additional tax liabilities? The Christmas party tax-free allowance in the UK makes it possible.
What is the Christmas Party Tax-Free Allowance?
The Christmas party tax-free allowance allows employers to provide annual social functions, such as Christmas parties, without the worry of tax implications, provided certain conditions are met. Here’s what you need to know:
1. Annual Event Requirement: The event must be held annually. This includes not only Christmas parties but also other regular social functions like summer barbecues or annual dinners. The key is that the event recurs each year.
2. Inclusivity: The event must be open to all employees. If your company operates across multiple locations, the event should be open to all employees at a particular location. This ensures that everyone has the opportunity to participate and enjoy the festivities.
3. Cost Limit: The cost per head must not exceed £150. This amount includes VAT and covers all expenses related to the event, such as food, drink, entertainment, and any accommodation or transport provided. It’s important to note that if the cost per head exceeds £150, the entire amount becomes taxable, not just the excess.
Multiple Events
If your company hosts multiple annual events, the combined cost per head for all events must not exceed £150 to remain tax-free. This means you can spread the festive cheer throughout the year with different events, as long as the
By Simpson Wreford LLP
total cost per head stays within the limit.
Why It Matters
The Christmas party tax-free allowance is a valuable benefit for both employers and employees. For employers, it’s a way to enhance employee satisfaction and foster a positive work environment without additional tax burdens. For employees, it’s an opportunity to enjoy festive celebrations and feel appreciated by their employer.
Planning Your Event
When planning your Christmas party or any other annual event, keep the following tips in mind to ensure you stay within the tax-free allowance:
- Budget Carefully: Plan your budget to ensure the cost per head does not exceed £150. Include all related expenses in your calculations.
- Inclusive Invitations: Make sure the event is open to all employees to meet the inclusivity requirement.
- Track Multiple Events: If you host multiple events, keep track of the total cost per head to ensure you remain within the tax-free limit.
By understanding and utilising the Christmas party tax-free allowance, you can celebrate the festive season with your team without the worry of additional tax liabilities. So go ahead, plan that perfect party, and spread the holiday cheer! Simpson Wreford LLP have a wealth of experience assisting businesses to save Tax. Contact us now for a free initial consultation on 020 8317 6460 or visit our website at www. simpsonwreford.co.uk
Beautiful garden rooms
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By Harden Holidays
This Christmas, why not swap the usual presents of socks and scented candles for something truly unforgettable? Give the gift of travel and create memories that last a lifetime. Whether it’s a luxurious getaway, a weekend city break, or an adventure-packed escape, travel is a gift that keeps on giving, long after the tree comes down and the holiday season is over.
Why Travel Makes the Perfect Gift
1. It’s Personal
A trip tailored to a loved one’s interests shows thought and effort. Whether they’re a beach lover, culture enthusiast, or thrill-seeker, a travel experience can be customized to match their passions.
2. It Creates Lasting Memories
Material gifts may lose their appeal over time, but the memories of exploring a new destination, sharing meals, and discovering hidden gems will stay forever.
3. It’s a Gift of Quality Time
In today’s fast-paced world, time together is precious. Gifting travel offers a chance to connect with loved ones, away from the distractions of daily life.
Ideas for Travel-Themed Gifts
1. A Weekend City Break
Treat someone to a weekend in a bustling city like Paris, Rome, or Barcelona. Include tickets to a local attraction, a guided tour, or a reservation at a renowned restaurant for an extra special touch.
2. An All-Inclusive Resort Stay
Give the ultimate relaxation gift—a stay at an all-inclusive resort. Sun, sea, and unlimited cocktails? Yes, please!
3. An Adventure Experience
For the adrenaline junkie in your life, consider gifting a ski pass, a hiking trip, or a guided adventure like white-water rafting or zip-lining.
4. Mini Cruise
A cruise combines relaxation and exploration. Think 2-night mini cruise sailing from the UK? Sounds good to me!
5. A Wellness Retreat
Help a loved one recharge with a wellness retreat. Think yoga in Bali, spa breaks in the countryside, or meditation retreats in the mountains.
6. A Travel Voucher
Not sure of their schedule or preference? A travel voucher allows them to choose their ideal destination and timing. Any amount is available with us.
Thoughtful Add-Ons
• Customized Travel Accessories: Pair your gift with personalized luggage tags, passport covers, or a high-quality travel journal.
• A Travel Guide or Itinerary: Include a guidebook for their destination or pre-plan an itinerary to make the trip extra special.
• Frequent Flyer Miles or Travel Points: If you have points to spare, transfer them to a loved one to help fund their travel.
• Airport Lounge access – Book them into the airport lounge to ensure their trip starts in the most relaxing way possible. Cheers to that!
The Joy of Giving Travel
Travel is more than a destination—it’s a chance to experience new cultures, taste new cuisines, and step out of the everyday. By giving the gift of travel this Christmas, you’re giving your loved ones the opportunity to explore the world, create unforgettable memories, and enjoy experiences they’ll treasure forever.
So, this festive season, think beyond the ordinary. Wrap up the world and give the gift of travel—it’s a present they’ll never forget.
Harden Holidays would like to thank everyone for their custom this year. We wish you all have a wonderful festive season – Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year for 2025!
Shows In December Shows In JANUARY
BEATING THE WINTER BLUES
By Dr Julie Taylor
helpful in the long term, such as smoking, drinking and over eating. Reach out early if you are struggling; especially with things like debt, finances and your mental health.
The winter months can be more difficult for our mental health. The colder, shorter days can make us want to sleep and eat more, and impacts on our motivation to exercise. We limit outdoor and social activities, which can lead to isolation and loneliness. The Christmas period is often stressful, even if it is a positive stress, and can bring financial strain or heightened emotions for some. The lack of natural daylight in winter affects our sleep patterns too. Understanding these things can help you to address them.
Staying motivated
Try to keep motivated and do what you can to boost your morale. Doing something that gives you energy can help to boost your mood. This might be exercise, a new challenge or project – anything you enjoy. Planning your day each morning can give you small goals to aim for, create a routine and keep you productive.
Be kind
Being kind to others, such as helping out in your community, can improve your mental health. Even something as simple as giving up your seat on the bus, making a colleague a cup of tea or praising someone when they have done something good can increase your own feelings of happiness and satisfaction. Try a simple act of kindness and see how it makes you feel.
Kindness needs to start with yourself. Celebrate small achievements, even if that is just in your head. Book some time off of work, go for a walk or run alone or even shutting the bathroom door for a bath/shower away from the kids to give yourself some valuable ‘me time’.
Don’t worry
Try not to ruminate on the ‘what if’s’ and negative stories. Some people find mindfulness helps them to focus on the present and manage their thoughts and feelings. There are mindfulness courses and self-help guides that you can access. For some exercises and tips www.mind. org.uk/information-support/drugs-and-treatments/mindfulness/mindfulness-exercises-tips/
Feeling overwhelmed?
When things are overwhelming – stop and take time to find your feet and think about the next step. One step at a time and you will soon have walked further than you imagined.
Try to avoid coping mechanisms that are not
If you need help with your mental health, there’s lots of support out there, from your GP surgery to organisations such as Mind and Mental Health Matters. You can self-refer to NHS talking therapies without speaking to your GP at www.nhs.uk/service-search/mental-health/ find-a-psychological-therapies-service/
If it is urgent and you cannot wait to speak to your GP, contact the Samaritans on 116 123 or call 111. Check www.kmpt.nhs.uk/need-help/ for more information.
Dr Julie Taylor is a GP Partner and Trainer at the Wellcome Practice and the Primary Care Medical Director for Dartford Gravesham and Swanley Health and Care Partnership.
COMBATING SCAMS AND KEEPING OLDER PEOPLE SAFE
By Christina Uppenkamp - Home Instead
It’s easy to assume we are savvy when it comes to fraud and scams, and expect that we’ll never be caught out and can spot a scam a mile off. Sadly, scammers are becoming increasingly more sophisticated, employing new tactics and methods to gain our trust.
Our older loved ones are particularly at risk, as scammers can seek them out. Unfamiliarity with the online world can play a part too.
If families get together and talk older loved ones through what to look out for, they can protect them from becoming victim. It all lies in knowing the signs to spot.
Types of fraud and scams to look out for:
Fraud and scams are continuously developing, so it’s important to stay alert and vigilant. Some of these can include:
1. Impersonation Scams
Scammers pretend to be trusted figures, such as family members or officials, to steal personal information or money. Always verify identities before sharing details.
2. Purchase Scams
Fake online listings trick victims into paying for non-existent products. Research sellers and use secure payment methods to avoid losses.
3. Investment Scams
Fraudsters promote fake investment opportunities with promises of high returns. Always consult a financial advisor before investing.
4. Romance Scams
Scammers build online relationships and ask for money for emergencies. Be cautious of anyone
you haven’t met in person who requests funds.
5. Doorstep Scams
Fraudsters visit homes pretending to be tradespeople or charity workers. Verify their identity before engaging and don’t feel pressured.
6. Courier Fraud
Scammers claim to be from banks or police and ask for cash withdrawals, often sending a courier to collect it. Legitimate organisations won’t request cash.
How Can You Protect Yourself from Fraud and Scams?
1. Avoid Disclosing Security Details
Never share personal information like passwords or bank details over the phone or online.
2. Check Authenticity
Be wary of unsolicited emails or messages; verify the sender’s identity before responding.
3. Contact Organisations Directly
Use official contact information to confirm any suspicious communications. If somebody rings you and you have doubts over whether they are who they say they are, call them back using the organisation’s official phone number. Use another phone if possible in case they have tapped into and have control over your phone.
4. Challenge Unexpected Requests
Trust your instincts—if something seems off, verify before acting.
5. Report Scams
Report any suspicious activity to local authorities or organisations like Action Fraud to help protect others. You can do so here: https:// www.actionfraud.police.uk/
Sadly, many scams go unreported due to the victim’s fear of embarrassment. But by being open and honest about scams with your older loved ones, they will feel more compelled to check with you if they ever have any suspicions.
We’d love to hear from you if you would like to make a suggestion for a future topic. Please write to me at c.uppenkamp@dartford. homeinstead.co.uk or by post to Home Instead, St Fidelis House, St Fidelis Road, Erith, DA8 1AT. Alternatively, you can also call me on 01322 923750.
LIFE UNDER THE STAIRS
By Jane Stevenson
NOT QUITE BAH HUMBUG!
That Time Of Year is creeping up again. Even before the last sparkler had fizzled out or the last rocket expired in a sea of colourful sparks, then the shops were loaded with Christmas items.
I enjoy Christmas. I love the gift buying, the card writing, throwing tinsel hither and thither. You can’t have too much glitter or a bauble laden tree or a festive tin of food for the cat!
What I do object to, is being bombarded with TV programmes and ads for Christmas from October onwards!
According to cookery programmes and magazines, we need step by step instructions on how to do things correctly for The Day. There are many brightly coloured magazines showing how to drape the mantlepiece with festive garlands, beautifully wrap our gifts, or hand stencil our own cards.
TV cookery programmes suggest Christmas won’t be successful unless we slave away in the kitchen several days before the event.
In my view, it’s a con! Christmas Dinner is nothing more than a bang-up decent roast. It doesn’t need special anything, just to be served with love and affection!
So, we might knock ourselves out, making our own gravy stock, (which according to one celebrity cook, requires 13 ingredients!), shredding Brussel sprouts to serve with leeks, or making sure the carrots are cooked with orange and thyme! Recipes for brandy butter (using organic eggs of course) flood the internet, and what should be a great family fun day, can sometimes result in a day spent in the kitchen, rather than enjoying this special time.
My mum spent hours in the kitchen cooking up a storm during the Christmas holiday. Cakes, sausage rolls, mince pies, puddings, a trifle for Christmas Day tea, two roasts and accompanying vegetables and a couple of dozen Yorkshire puddings.
Subsequently, I thought if I hadn’t cooked similar amounts, from scratch, it was a disaster. I wasn’t being a ‘good mum’.
If you love the challenge of creating all of the above, then go ahead and have a wonderful Happy Christmas.
Last year was different for us. Due to circumstances, eldest Offspring stayed in
Kent with husband, in-laws, cat and dog. We remained at home on the island, with Youngest Offspring to visit, although he could only manage a couple of days away from his job.
It seemed a lot to do to cater for the three of us when time with family was so limited.
So, I threw the old family rule book out of the window and broke free.
Thanks to the local supermarket, all the veg was bought pre-prepared. Pigs in blankets and stuffing? Oven ready and in disposable trays! I bought pre-prepared Christmas mini-puddings (we all prefer a different flavour) and mince pies and cake. I did roast my own potatoes; It all tasted fine and gave me more time with family. I have the sneaking suspicion no-one noticed any difference.
Rules are for breaking, and that includes family traditions, so this year I’m organising Christmas to best suit me. I never have Buck’s Fizz for breakfast the rest of the year. If I don’t on The Day, I’ll still enjoy myself! If the turkey isn’t large enough to feed the whole County, with some left over for sandwiches, I haven’t failed! I don’t need ideas for 101 ways to use up cold Yorkshire puddings, although I’m told they’re great, reheated with a bit of honey or jam!
My cooking skills are questionable, but I’ve already made two small loaf cakes, enough for the three of us. I’ll top ice only, using roll out fondant paste. I’m making my own bread and freezing it. The sausage rolls will be made using shop bought pastry. The veg will be pre-prepared. I’ll still buy the mince pies and puddings, as there are limits to my culinary skills. It won’t look as good as the ads, but it’ll taste ok.
I’ll be enjoying the day with family comfortable in the knowledge it’s our presence and time which mean more than a lavish dinner.
Enjoy 25th December everyone. See you on the other side.
Jim Dickson MP for Dartford
I hope everyone is getting ready for a lovely festive period spent with family and loved ones.
It has been a delight getting out and about in the constituency as your local MP, meeting more charities, businesses and residents and hearing what matters most to everyone.
I have been working hard in Parliament to unlock more support for Dartford, raising key issues to government like the need for a Lower Thames Crossing, overcapacity at Darent Valley Hospital, management and leasehold charges, the need for more SEN provision, and the impact of our brilliant local sporting clubs.
I also now have a brilliant team in place, ready to support every resident – I will be holding many surgeries in my office and around the area going forward. My next office surgeries are taking place Friday 20th
December and Friday 31st January – to book a spot please email jim.dickson.mp@parliament.uk.
To keep updated with my regular activity, follow me on social media or sign-up to my brand-new newsletter on the QR code below - and of course, always feel welcome to get in touch with me via email for any questions or if you’d like to speak with me.
Wishing you all the best,
Jim
Gardener Steve
Tending to your garden like it’s my own
I provide regular care for domestic gardens including: Lawns, Beds & Borders, Shrubs & Hedgerows at affordable rates. I cover Dartford & the surrounding areas and am fully insured. Please contact me for further information or to arrange a visit. Many Thanks.
07590049382 or gardensteve1@outlook.com
WALKING WITH THE DARTS
by Chris Palmer
Men’s team photos by Carol White-Griffiths, Women’s` team photos: Taur Everard
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.
I’d like to begin by apologising for the lack of content last month. I experienced an extremely busy time, as well as personal upset, and completely forgot to write my article for this magazine! So, apologies for that.
I’m pleased to say that, after experiencing a rather barren spell, things are beginning to pick up for Ady Pennock’s Dartford team. Since the 10th of October, the Darts have lost just once in seven fixtures. The run of results has seen us pick up two victories and four draws, which has resulted in us slowly climbing up the Isthmian Premier League table.
Midfield General, Samir Carruthers, has netted three goals during this spell. The first of which was a direct free-kick against Erith Town in the Velocity Cup, in which we went through to the next round following a 1-0 win.
The second victory came against Cheshunt on a cold day at Bericote Powerhouse Princes Park. The Darts dominated the game, with only Cheshunt goalkeeper R’Avan Constable keeping the score respectable for his side. The Darts won courtesy of Samir Carruthers’ spotkick and a long-range wonder goal from young defender George Whitefield! Check it out on our official YouTube channel, you won’t regret it!
Our previous fixture saw us make the short trip across the water to Aveley, where we faced Hashtag United in a thrilling, yet chaotic 3-3 draw. Sam Odaudu, Denzelle Olopade, and Olly Box were on the scoreboard that evening, but it was goalkeeper Jacob Marsden who was the hero after pulling off a superb save deep into stoppage time to prevent the hosts from
nicking all three points!
Off the pitch, Ady and his coaching staff have been putting the players through the paces, as we gear up for the busy winter schedule. The boss has also trimmed his side, with loanees Matt Kerbey (Slough Town) and David Aziaya (Bromley) returning to their parent clubs. Ben Allen and Mert Apat have left the club, whilst Michael Olarewaju and Ade Yussuf have come on board (the latter on a dual registration deal with Hornchurch).
Meanwhile, Connor Dymond and Martin McCarthy’s Dartford FC Women side are flying high in the London & South-East Regional Women’s Football League.
Having lost their opening game away at Dorking Wanderers Women, the ladies have gone on an excellent unbeaten run of nine games in the league... with eight of those fixtures wins! The last of which was an excellent defensive display in the return fixture against Dorking Wanderers Women, whereby the Darts won 1-0 courtesy of a Brionne Fowle first-half header.
The ladies have scored 34 goals in their ten league games so far, and have only conceded five... two of which came in the 2-1 opening day defeat!
Sadly, their FA Cup run ended early this season. Having comprehensively beaten Bromley 4-1 in the 2nd Qualifying Round, the ladies then travelled to Actonians FC where they lost out 2-0 in a hard-fought game. The ladies also lost out to Chatham Town WFC in the Combined Counties Cup 1st Round, where the hosts won 2-0.
However, the Darts did comprehensively beat London Seaward 5-1 to progress into the next round of the Isthmian League Women’s Cup. Shauni Griffiths and Amy Russ netted two of the goals, while Emily Vaughan bagged a hat-trick that day.
As for the Dartford Youth Academy, please head over to our official website to read Head Coach (Youth) Russell Searle’s monthly round-up of his teams’ progress.
Please remember to keep an eye on all teams’ progress via our social media platforms and the official club website throughout the season. And as always, thank you for your continued support and thanks for reading.
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ACCOUNTS, BUSINESS, FINANCE AND LEGAL
Apprico
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Simpson Wreford LLP
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Dartford Foodbank
ellenor
ESTATE/LETTING AGENTS
Fox Estates
Gary the Estate Agent
FLORISTS
Dartford Florist
GARAGES/VEHICLE SERVICES
AA
Orchard Garage
HEALTH AND WELLBEING
Be True 2 U Therapies
Dartford Council Walk and Talk
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NHS Kent and Medway
Paridhaan
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Locksmith
Steve Cook
Tudor Living
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LEISURE/ENTERTAINMENT/THINGS TO DO
Bexley Park Comedy
Dartford Social Club
Orchard West
The Mick Jagger Centre
Yamato Damashii
Print and Design
Cadiz Tapas Bar
Efes Turkish Restaurant
Gajak
Growler Stop
Longfield Tandori
RETAIL
Bradleys Jewellers
Craft Frames
SCHOOL
Greenlands
Leigh Academy Dartford
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)
