Dartford Living July 2021 by Dartford Living

INSIDE THE MAGAZINE ROCK OF AGES

FREE MUSIC TUITION FOR LOCAL SCHOOLS

STAYING HEALTHY THROUGH THE SUMMER

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PAGES 32-33

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Find a local shop, see restaurant listings, view traffic and travel information, local events and regular societies and clubs, and places to go around Dartford.

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MONDAYS British Legion Hall (morning) South Darenth Paula 07891 424401

Geddes Place Church(morning) Bexleyheath Adam 07730 405313

St.Anselms Parish Centre Dartford Gillian 07957 135737

Oakfield Primary Academy Dartford Kate 07590 995948

Oakfield Primary Academy(from January 5th 2021) New Venue Dartford Kate 07590 995948

The Howard Venue Hextable Kelly 07904 759587 New Consultant

Fleetdown Community Centre Dartford Paula 07891 424401

WEDNESDAYS St.Edmunds Church Living Well Dartford Jo 07800 797030

VCD Sports Club(morning) Crayford Sue 07507 599691 VCD Sports Club(evening) Crayford Shelley 07979 691619 TUESDAYS St.Anselms Parish Centre Dartford Gillian 07957 135737 Greenhithe British Legion Greenhithe Paula 07891 424401 St.John The Evangelist Church Bexley Adam 07730 405313

The Howard Venue Hextable Kelly 07904 759587 New Consultant

Danson Youth Centre Bexleyheath Shelley 07979 691619 FRIDAYS The Brent Old Boys Dartford Jo 07800 797030

VCD Sports Club(mornings) Crayford Liz 07900 213548

SATURDAYS Oakfield Primary Academy Dartford Sarah 07739 027161

VCD Sports Club(evenings) Crayford Jo 07920 851475

The Christchurch Centre Swanley Paula 07891 42440

THURSDAYS Greenhithe British Legion Greenhithe Paula 07891 424401

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BY THE COMMUNITY, FOR THE COMMUNITY

CONTENTS

If you email editor@dartfordliving.com we will add you to our e-newsletter and you will join 7,000 others who receive a copy of the magazine by email once a month.

5 Rock of Ages 6 Ore Oduba takes the stage 8. Dartford Giving 11 Senior Snippets 12 Mayor of Dartford celebrates former RAF radio operator’s 100th birthday 15 Stanhill Farm 16 Debbie’s Delicious recipe 20 The Secret Garden Live 22 Sun Salutations 24 Travel Inspiration with Harden Holidays 28. Fitness - July 32 Dartford Musical School 36 What are we going to do with the children? 37 Stay healthy through the summer 38 Life under the Stairs 40 Communities of Kent lead charge to fundraise for India 42 Rio Ferdinand reveals all 47 Car News 49 Dartford Painted Rocks & Sports roundup 52. Where to go locally 54 Useful numbers 56 Business directory

Until next time, stay safe.

DARTFORD LIVING MAGAZINE PRINTED BY:

Dear Readers, Welcome to the July magazine. We live in strange 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 no time 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 local roads you will guarantee your copy of the magazine and get a little exercise as well!

Vijay - Editor, Dartford Living (and the rest of the fantastic Dartford Living volunteer team) ONLINE

Front cover photo by Janice Blake

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

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ROCK OF AGES new rising star Joe Gash who will be playing the iconic role of Lonny. We can’t wait to be back and to give audiences (and fans) the best party night out of the summer’. The full cast for the Rock of Ages tour includes Luke Walsh who first played the lead role of Drew in the 2018/2019 tour, and he is back to reprise the role in 2021. Luke is a singer/songwriter and his theatre credits include ‘Chess’ (Umeda Arts Theatre, Osaka), ‘Boybands Forever’ (Germany Tour).

Following a sell-out tour in 2018/2019, the producers of the smash-hit Rock of Ages are delighted to announce the cast and Kevin Clifton’s return in the role of Stacee Jaxx at selected performances. The tour will open at The Alexandra Birmingham from the 19 August with Kevin first appearing as Stacee Jaxx at the Liverpool Empire on 13 September 2021. Full dates and casting can be found at the website www.rockofagesmusical.co.uk.

Rhiannon Chesterman played Regina on the previous tour and is returning in the role of Sherrie. Rhiannon’s previous theatre credits include UK and Ireland tour of ‘Grease’ and ‘Mrs Henderson Presents’ at Noel Coward Theatre, West End. Joe Gash will play the iconic role of Lonny. Joe will be making his theatre debut in the role.

Ross Dawes will play Dennis Dupree, his previous West End theatre credits include ‘Phantom of the Opera’, ‘Girl from the North Country’, ’Charlie & the Chocolate Factory’ and ’Shrek Kevin Clifton thrilled audiences the Musical’. as Stacee Jaxx on the 2018/2019 ‘Rock of Ages’ UK tour and he is Gabriella Williams will play Regina so excited to be back, reprising the and her previous credits include role in 2021. Kevin is best known Sophie in ‘Mamma Mia!’ in the West known for being a professional End at the Novello Theatre and dancer on BBC1’s ‘Strictly Come ‘Carrie; The Musical’ at Southwark Dancing’. In seven years on the show Playhouse. Kevin reached the final a record five times, winning four glitter balls Jenny Fitzpatrick will play Justice. including the main show Glitterball trophy in 2018 with Stacey Dooley Jenny previously played the alternate before leaving in 2019. Since then, Tina Turner in ‘TINA, The Tina Musical’ Kevin has gone on to appear in in London’s West End at the Aldwych many other theatre productions theatre. including, ‘The Wedding Singer’ and ‘Singin’ in the Rain’. Vas Constanti, Andrew Carthy, Erin The producers said today, ‘We Bell will also be returning in their are delighted Kevin will be back roles from the 2018/2019 tour as as Stacee Jaxx, he has wowed us Hertz Klinemann, Franz Klinenmann and audiences with his superb and Constance. They are also joined singing voice and we can’t wait for by returning cast members Adam him to be part of our exciting show Strong and Joshua Dever. once again. We are also thrilled to welcome back many returning cast They are joined by Scott Hayward, members from the last tour and a Sam Turrell, Phoebe Samuel-Gray,

Siobhan James, Morgan Scott and Janine Somcio. “Rock of Ages” is the hilarious musical comedy lavished with over 25 classic rock anthems, including ‘Don’t Stop Believin’, ‘We Built This City’, ‘The Final Countdown’, ‘Wanted Dead or Alive’, ‘Here I Go Again’, ‘Can’t Fight this Feeling’ and ‘I Want To Know What Love Is’, played loud and proud by an awesome live band. Leave it all behind and lose yourself in a city and a time where the dreams are as big as the hair, and yes, they can come true! Now a global smash with hit seasons on Broadway, London’s West End and Las Vegas and a star-studded Hollywood movie version this show promises you the best party night out around. The show will be at The Orchard Theatre from Monday 25 October – Sunday 31 October 2021. Pre-show dining is also available before the show. The Orchard Theatre’s Restaurant provides a delicious range of, unique and memorable dishes, using the freshest local produce and prepared daily by the Head Chef. Reserve your table when booking your show tickets. To book tickets or for more information visit orchardtheatre. co.uk.

ORE ODUBA TO STAR AS BRAD MAJORS IN THE LEGENDARY MUSICAL EXTRAVAGANZA - THE ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW will once again reprise his role as Riff Raff, following more than 1350 performances around the world, with Lauren Ingram (Beauty and the Beast, My Fair Lady) as Columbia. Callum Evans (Grease, Miss Saigon) will be takIing on the role of Rocky, with Joe Allen (Little Shop of Horrors, Charlie & The Chocolate Factory) as Eddie & Dr Scott. Joining the cast as Phantoms are Reece Budin (Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, Man of La Mancha), Jordan Fox (Kinky Boots, Hairspray) and Rachel Grundy (Starlight Express, Peter Pan), with Danny Knott (Saturday Night Fever, A Midsummer Nights’ Dream) as Male Swing.

Actor, presenter and winner of Strictly Come Dancing Ore Oduba (Curtains, Grease) will star as Brad Majors in Richard O’Brien’s Rocky Horror Show. Back by huge popular demand, the legendary musical will tour the UK between July 2021 and June 2022. Tickets are on sale now from RockyHorror.co.uk. Ore Oduba said: “I can’t wait to join the cast of the Rocky Horror Show. Like everybody, I’ve missed the stage so much and Rocky really is the perfect show to welcome audiences back to theatres. It’s such an iconic musical with songs that everyone knows, so I’m sure the Rocky fans will be desperate to do the Time Warp again! I’m so excited to get started and tour the country with our production... just got to remember to pack my stockings!!” Joining Ore and returning to the cast of the Rocky Horror Show as Frank is Stephen Webb (Jersey Boys, Legally Blonde), alongside Philip Franks (The Darling Buds of May) as The Narrator. They will be joined by fan favourite Haley Flaherty (Mamma Mia, Chicago) as Janet. Kristian Lavercombe (Jersey Boys, Jesus Christ Superstar)

Since it first opened in London in June 1973 at the Royal Court’s Theatre Upstairs, Richard O’Brien’s Rocky Horror Show has become the world’s favourite Rock ‘N’ Roll musical, having been performed worldwide for over 45 years in more than 30 countries and translated into 20 languages.

The Rocky Horror Show first began life in 1973 before an audience of just 63 people in the Royal Court’s Theatre Upstairs. It was an immediate success and transferred to the Chelsea Classic Cinema, before going on to run at the Kings Road Theatre, 1973-79 and the Comedy Theatre in the West End, 1979-80. In 1975 it was transformed into a film called ‘The Rocky Horror Picture Show’. This film adaptation took over $135 million at the Box Office and is still shown in cinemas around the world more than 40 years after its premiere, making it the longest running theatrical release in cinema history. Many stars including Russell Crowe, Tim Curry, Susan Sarandon, Jerry Springer, Jason Donovan and Meatloaf have appeared in The Rocky Horror Show over the past 45 years. In 2015, as part of a sold-out season at London’s Playhouse Theatre, a special star-studded Gala charity performance in aid of Amnesty International was broadcast to over 600 cinemas across the UK and Europe. The live screening - featuring a host of celebrities playing The Narrator including Stephen Fry, Mel Giedroyc, Emma Bunton, Ade Edmondson, Anthony Head and Richard O’Brien - smashed box office records and was the biggest grossing film in cinemas across the UK. The performance was subsequently screened on the Sky Arts channel.

Directed by Christopher Luscombe, the smash hit show features all of the famous musical numbers which have made The Rocky Horror Show such a huge hit for over four decades, including “Sweet Transvestite”, “Science Fiction/Double Feature”, “Dammit Janet” and, of course, the timeless floor-filler, “The TimeWarp” - this is perfect show to help people forget the doom and gloom Ready to thrill you with fun and of recent months. naughty moments, The Rocky Horror Show is the boldest bash of them The Rocky Horror Show tells the all. But be warned, this show has story of Brad and his fiancée Janet, rude parts! two squeaky clean college kids who meet Dr Frank’n’Furter by chance The show will be at The Orchard when their car breaks down outside Theatre from Tuesday 31 August his house whilst on their way to visit – Friday 3 September 2021. Pretheir favourite college professor. It’s show dining is also available before an adventure they’ll never forget, the show. The Orchard Theatre’s with fun, frolics, frocks and frivolity, Restaurant provides a delicious bursting with timeless songs and range of unique and memorable outrageous outfits. The Rocky Horror dishes, using the freshest local Show is a guaranteed party, which produce and prepared daily by the famously combines scienceHead Chef. Reserve your table when fiction, horror, comedy and music booking your show tickets. while encouraging audience participation - meaning, of course, To b o o k t i c ket s o r fo r m o re getting dressed-up in the most information visit outrageous fancy dress. orchardtheatre.co.uk.

DARTFORD GIVING

By Kate Hargreaves This role can be approached with a “little and often” mindset, with a rough estimate of about an hour a week, but it’s very much in your hands. Community route champions are allocated an area near to where they live and/or work, so that it’s not an inconvenience. “Are there any requirements?” Some level of physical fitness would make the tasks of walking and carrying out light maintenance easier, but shouldn’t be a barrier for most people. Taking part may even make you physically healthier. You’ll be provided with everything you need for the role, including training and a toolkit (with secateurs, graffiti wipes etc). “Anything else I need to know?” For more information about this role, go to https://www.sustrans.org. uk/volunteer-vacancies/volunteercommunity-route-championsdartford-and-gravesham/.

Has the lovely summer weather we’ve experienced lately made you more inclined to get out and about? Have you been out walking or cycling and noticed overgrown bushes that block the path? Or have you been annoyed by graffiti covering a sign you’re trying to read? If you’ve answered “yes” to any of these, read on to learn about how to do something about it by becoming a Sustrans volunteer. Community route champion “What is it?” In a nutshell, Sustrans is a walking and cycling charity which simply wants to make it easier for people to walk and cycle everyday, and acts as guardian of the National Cycle Network. Sustrans’ community route champions volunteer to walk or cycle a set route on a regular basis, checking that they are in the best possible condition so that there is no reason why people wouldn’t use them. This includes doing some light maintenance, such as cleaning signs, snipping

back brambles and overgrown branches and reporting bigger issues back to the council (via an online portal) so they can respond to the current issue and also schedule it into their plans for future maintenance work. Community route champions often find that it increases their confidence in the local council as they see improvements so soon after making their reports. “What would I get out of it?”

“This sounds great, how do I get involved?” Helen Fisher, with whom I discussed this article, is the volunteer coordinator for South England – email her at helen.fisher@sustrans. org.uk. You’ll then need to complete an application form, which just asks for contact details and a referee to confirm who you are. You can then have a chat with Helen about the role and meet up to walk your allocated route together to familiarise yourself. It’s as easy as that!

This is a great role for anyone who wants to be active and help the local If you have any questions, feel free to community while getting some fresh email kate@dartfordliving.com. As air. It gives you the motivation to always, happy volunteering! get outside in all weather, which is something that many of us could benefit from after being stuck indoors more than usual lately. Due to the pandemic, there are also now more people than ever using the routes, so they need to be in good condition. You’ll be able to see the positive impact of your efforts immediately and volunteers often get thanked by grateful passers-by. “How much time do I need for it?”

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SENIOR SNIPPETS - HEAT AWARENESS ADVICE By Christina Uppenkamp - Home Instead Senior Care fluids lost during sweating. Avoid caffeine or alcohol which increase dehydration. 3. Think lightweight – choose clothing which is loose, lightweight, light coloured and breathable, such as a white linen or cotton shirt. 4. Cool down – take cool showers and baths when possible. If you’re out and about, use a cotton hankie soaked in cool water and place it on the back of your neck and on your wrists.

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, Director of Home Instead Dartford.

elderly as it is more difficult for their bodies to recover from heat stress caused during hot days.

With the temperatures rising now, it is important to recognise that older people’s bodies are often unable to adjust to sudden changes in temperature, which makes them more susceptible to heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Doctors have warned that hot nights are particularly dangerous for the

1. Avoid the hottest times of the day (between 11am – 3pm). If you do need to venture out make sure you aren’t outside for long periods of time and find shady spots when you can.

With this in mind, here are a few tips on how to stay safe during the warm summer months:

2. Keep hydrated – even if you’re not thirsty it’s important to drink plenty of water or fruit juice to replace

5. Cover up – in addition to wearing cooler clothing it’s also important to remember a hat. No matter whether it’s a cotton baseball cap or a straw boater, headwear will help to keep your face in the shade. 6. Pick the perfect spot – seek out the coolest areas of your home during warmer weather. Keep curtains and blinds closed to prevent sun heating up rooms, especially your bedroom. 7. If safe, leave windows open during the night. 8. Turn off non-essential lights and electrical items. If you would like to speak to someone at Home Instead, please do not hesitate to get in touch. We also welcome any suggestions for future topics from you all. All you have to do is 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.

Mayor of Dartford celebrates former RAF radio operator’s 100th birthday

On Saturday, 29th May, the Mayor of Dartford, Cllr Rosanna Currans, and Deputy Mayor Cllr Paul Cutler, had the honour of attending the 100th birthday of Pat Everett.

her son and one of her daughters.

is an inspiration to all of us.

Mrs Everett served as a radio operator in the Royal Air Force during the Second World War, before raising her son and two daughters.

“We spoke to Pauline Dillon who is the manager of the nursing home and has been there for the past 30 years. She told us that Pat is a lovely lady.

The centenarian celebrated her landmark birthday at Beechcare Cllr Currans said: “Pat is a remarkable “We had a lovely time talking to staff Nursing Home in Darenth alongside woman who has led a good life. She and the other residents.”

Council deploys CCTV cameras outside three Dartford primary schools to ensure pupils’ safety CCTV cameras are being installed to movement of other traffic including monitor drivers’ behaviour outside emergency vehicles. primary schools around Dartford. “Whilst the Dartford Borough Council T h e C o u n c i l i s l o o k i n g t o Parking Enforcement Team make clampdown on both dangerous regular visits to all schools in the parking and driving outside Borough, they simply cannot be schools, which puts young lives present at every school every day. at risk. “I am determined to take steps As a result, cameras are set to be to improve the safety of local installed at several schools in the schoolchildren and one of the steps Borough in the next few weeks. we are taking is the installation of CCTV cameras with enforcement Parents who are caught driving capability around a number of schools dangerously run the risk of being in the Borough. fined, or even facing criminal proceedings. “The CCTV Enforcement Cameras are intended to deter dangerous and Leader of the Council, Cllr Jeremy irresponsible parking and provide Kite, said: “Some parking and robust evidence to support penalties driving behaviours around schools and prosecution. threaten the safety of children, cause nuisance for local residents “I would have preferred this problem and seriously hamper the safe to be resolved by offending drivers

showing more common sense and awareness around schools but none of us can accept behaviours that put young lives at risk and cause disruption to local communities. “The cameras will only focus on road markings around the schools and only for the purpose of parking enforcement. “The fields of view have been rigorously tested so as not to overlap into or onto any private premises and the cameras will not form part of any other CCTV system. “The fixed sight camera will be remotely operated by a trained member of the Council’s Parking Services staff and will only be used to enforce breaches of Parking regulations.”

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STANHILL FARM years we have built up a loyal customer base and know many of them on a first- name basis. We also offer a Click & Collect Food Order Collection Service. Simply browse online through our selection of fresh produce and pre-pay for your shopping. You then collect your order from the farm when it is ready. No contact with staff - on arrival just tell us your order number and surname and we can place the order straight into the boot without you even leaving your car. Convenient, safe, and stress-free shopping! Delicious, fresh produce for the whole family!

Stanhill Farm, Dartford, is growing its seventh 8-acre Maize Maze, which will open on Saturday 17 July ready for the summer holidays, through until Saturday 11 September.

During your visit to the farm, you might also like to treat yourself to a cup of tea and a slice of cake at our Berries & Beans Café – open for the If you need any extra goodies, pop 2021 summer season! Serving tea, into our well-stocked onsite Farm coffee, hot chocolate, cold drinks, Shop! We stock a wide range of toasties, cakes, and ice creams. fresh produce, much of which is harvested by hand and then put No dogs allowed anywhere on straight onto the shelves. We grow up the farm. to 30 different crops a year, making us a “real” farm shop. Some of the Maze entrance fees apply. *Availability produce in the shop is sourced from of fruit and vegetables is subject to local farms and producers and the rest seasonal variations – please check comes from the London wholesale our website for the current status of crops. markets.

Our theme this year is summer fun and we have gone bloomin’ sunflower crazy with a giant sunflower shaped maze surrounded by a boarder of beautiful sunflowers! Ideal for the kids to run around and lose themselves We pride ourselves on being a for a couple of hours! community spirited farm shop and enjoy engaging with our customers Price includes a gamecard and and having a good chat. Over the map - the game will be to find ten ‘sun stations’ to help you form a secret sunflower word on your game card. Solve the maze puzzle and discover your Sunflower Power! We also have a Mini Maze with a further ten game stations. Fill out your gamecard correctly for the chance to be entered into a prize draw!

PYO prices are not included in the maze entrance fees. For more information visit www.stanhillfarm. co.uk

After you have conquered the maze, why not spend time picking some fresh fruit and vegetables straight from the plants on the Pick Your Own farm? The season begins with strawberries, which is our main crop, followed by raspberries and a selection of vegetables through until October where we finish with pumpkins and squash.*

EGGY MUFFINS By Debbie Dickinson

I’ve recently trained as a Tesco Community Cook with Healthy Living Centre Dartford and am really enjoying teaching cookery sessions online. I am especially passionate about reducing food waste and thought I would share one of my favourite, easy recipes that was included in the course.

What to do: Preheat your oven to 150°C Fan/300° F /Gas 4.

You will see my adaptation of the recipe uses just one slice of bread and tiny amounts of other things – it’s a really healthy snack and perfect for using up whatever you have in the fridge! I’ve also made these, sweetened with a little sugar, using chopped apple and frozen raspberries. As always, scale up the recipe as you need – this 1 egg mix will make 3 or 4 muffins.

Chop the vegetables into quite small pieces. Gently cook them in a pan, with a little oil, until softened slightly. Leave to cool for a few minutes.

What you need: 1 Egg 50g Bread (crusts and stale bread are perfectly fine for this dish) 25ml Milk 15g Hard Cheese 60g Mediterranean Vegetables – I used 1 Mushroom, ½ Spring Onion, small piece of Red/ Yellow Pepper, 2 florets Broccoli, 2cm chunk of Courgette and 1 Tbsp. frozen Peas. Small bunch Parsley

Beat the Egg in a large bowl and mix in the Milk and Cheese. Tear the bread into small pieces and add to the eggy mix. Stir to ensure the bread is all mixed in well. Leave to let the bread absorb all the liquid.

Tip the vegetables into the bread/egg mix and stir to combine well. Season with Salt, Pepper and the chopped Parsley. Spoon into muffin cases (or use 15cm squares of baking paper pushed into the holes of a cupcake tin). These won’t rise like cupcakes, so fill to the size of muffins you’d like. Bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes until cooked and the tops are golden. Delicious eaten warm or leave in the tray for 5 minutes then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy!!

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THE SECRET GARDEN LIVE

New Creations Collective is proud to announce a brand-new, original production of The Secret Garden. This is the first professional dance adaptation in the UK, based on the bestselling novel, The Secret Garden, by Frances Hodgson Burnett, re-telling the story through classical music and dance.

in this family friendly production, guaranteed to be an unforgettable experience for audiences of all ages.

after the performance there is the opportunity to enjoy The World Garden and grounds until 5pm.

Featuring a brand-new score, composed by Adam Kornas and original choreography by Nina Monteiro, the iconic story is brought to life like never before, in this high-quality, one-hour ballet. The Join Mary on her journey to Gatehouse entrance will be ready discovering The Secret Garden to welcome visitors at 1.45pm and

Lullingstone Castle & The World Garden – Dartford

Wednesday 28th July, Show at 2.30pm Tickets - www.thesecretgarden.live Adults £17/Children £13

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SUN SALUTATIONS - WHAT ARE THEY AND WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS from the age of around 30 years old, more water leaves the disc during the day than enters when we lie down. It’s estimated that the adult spine loses up to 20 mm (about 3/4 inch) of disc height each day due to loss of fluid and over time, as we age, sleeping helps us regain less and less height - this can lead to a loss of up to two inches by the time we reach 60.

Last month I wrote about the summer solstice and International Yoga Day and how it’s become c u sto m a r y to p e r fo r m s u n salutation type sequences at this time of the year. Since then I’ve had lots of questions about sun salutations, what are they and are there benefits.

Intervertebral discs are like liquid cushions that sit between the spinal vertebrae. These fluid-filled cushions support movement through shock absorption and by maintaining space between the vertebrae so they don’t rub together as we move, protecting against osteoarthritis. A disc with good fluid levels is also more resilient and less likely to herniate which can As noted in my previous article, lead to all sorts of painful conditions gestures of honouring and paying including sciatica. reverence to the natural world encourage us to appreciate and Loading of the spine, which due to feel more connected to the rhythms gravity happens any time we are of life and have been part of yoga upright (sitting or standing) and is traditions as they evolved and increased with certain activities like developed across South Asia for running and bending, pushes fluid the last 3000 years or more. On a out of the discs and they can lose physical level there are also many around 20% of their fluid content benefits to practicing these types during the day. Lying down allows of sequences, in fact too many, the fluid back in and discs re-hydrate to list in one article, but one very when we sleep or rest lying down, interesting benefit is the particular like at the end of our yoga classes way they help to increase fluid in in Savasana for example. However, our intervertebral discs. Although there are many variations, the vast majority of sun salutation type sequences are comprised of flexion and extension type movements, linked together as short sequences which are then repeated a number of times. They are most often practiced in rhythm with the breath, so one movement made on an inhale, the next on an exhale, and so on.

How do yoga salutation-type sequences help to reverse this? Proteoglycans in our discs exert a powerful osmotic pull on water, countering the effect of gravity. The creation of proteoglycans is reduced by sustained pressure BUT stimulated by on/off pressure changes. The Salutation sequences with their repeated flexion and extension movement patterns create the perfect type of on/off pressure in the discs to stimulate the growth of these proteins helping our discs pull in more fluid when we sleep. In summar y, practicing yoga salutation type sequences increases our disc’s ability to draw fluid in and this not only helps us to move more freely and without pain, but also helps us to stay the same height or even regain the height we’ve lost. You may be interested to know that many of my mid-life students tell me they’ve got taller since practicing yoga! Keep taking good care of yourself, Clair.

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TRAVEL INSPIRATION – WINTER SUN – CARIBBEAN’S BEST ALL INCLUSIVE RESORTS By Harden Holidays

As we write this article, things in the travel industry are sadly still not looking good. There are barely any countries on the government green list to travel to this summer and the new Covid cases in the UK keep creeping up. The good news is that the vaccination programme is going well and we put our trust and hope that this will bring with it the opening of international travel for later in the year. With this in mind, we thought this month we will give you a bit of inspiration for winter sun destinations that may get you that well deserved break in the sun. We will focus on one of our favourite destinations and suppliers – Sandals and Beaches Resorts in the Caribbean. The Caribbean is a joyous mosaic of islands enticing paradise hunters, a burst of colour surrounded by beaches and soaked in rum. It is a lively and intoxicating wealth of people and places spread over 7000 islands with fewer than 10% of them being inhabited. They have a lot in common, but they are also very different from the contrast between bustling Barbados and its neighbour, the seemingly unchanged since colonial time St. Vincent to the booming British oriented St. Kitts and it’s sleepy, Dutch affiliated neighbour Sint Eustatius. With so many islands, beaches, cultures, flavours and waves to choose from, how could this not be the holiday paradise? Our favourite resorts in The Caribbean must be Sandals and Beaches Resort – here is why: Sandals is a perfect romantic stay for two or for a perfect family holiday try their Beaches Resorts. Sandals is couples only; whilst Beaches is families only. Sandals has been voted the World’s Leading All-inclusive Company for over 20 years and that is because of its incredible Luxury Included® concept, with more quality inclusions than any other resort anywhere in the world. Each resort has a first-class location on the beach, protected by offshore reefs which create the clear and calm water, innovative rooms and suites, out of this world gourmet dining with some of the resorts offering a choice of up to 21 different cuisines and a fantastic range of facilities and entertainment. Premium wines and spirits, diving and water-sports are also included, as well as golf on some of the most

challenging and prestigious courses in Saint Lucia. Sandals has also been voted best Wedding Travel Company at the UK Wedding Awards in 2019. Every Sandals Holiday Includes: Luxurious and Unique Suites ◊ Unlimited 5-Star Global Gourmet™ ◊ Dining at up to 16 Restaurants per Resort ◊ Exclusive Robert Mondavi Twin Oaks® Wines ◊ Unlimited Premium Spirits ◊ Up to 11 Bars per Resort, Entertainment Day & Night, Exclusive Butler Service* ◊ Club Sandals Concierge Service* ◊ Sandals Private Offshore Islands** ◊ PADI® Certified Scuba Diving ◊ Unlimited Water Sports ◊ Unlimited Land Sports ◊ StateOf-The-Art Fitness Centres ◊ Complimentary Green Fees for Golf** ◊ Exclusive Exchange Privileges Between Resorts ◊ Free Non-Stop Round-Trip Airport Transfers ◊ Tips and Gratuities ◊ Wi-Fi in all Rooms and Public Areas ◊ Exclusive Airport Arrival Lounge in Jamaica. You can find Sandals and/or Beaches resorts in Barbados, Grenada, Saint Lucia, Antigua, Jamaica, Turks & Caicos and the Bahamas. There are 24 properties to choose from in total, each of them offering the highest level of luxury, all included product and at the same time staying true to their home island. Each and every one of the resorts caters for a special kind of couple, looking for a carefully curated experience where love is all you need to bring. The resorts have their clientele old and new, and

repeat visitors are very common. Which Sandals resort is best for you? That depends on the kind of experience you are going for. For example, Sandals Ochi features more than 100 swimming pools and 16 amazing restaurants. Ochi is never boring, and you are likely to find a lively atmosphere. On the other hand, Sandals Negril offers a plethora of motorised water sports on Jamaica’s beautiful Seven Mile Beach. One of the most frequent questions we get about Sandals resort is which one is best for younger/older couples? They are perfect for all ages, especially those celebrating a wedding, honeymoon or anniversary. You can expect to meet couples from all over the world of all age groups. There are some resorts that attract holiday makers of a particular age group however this can vary according to your time of travel. Resorts like Sandals Grande Antigua, Sandals Royal Plantation and Sandals Halcyon Beach tend to attract a more mature crowd, while Sandals Grande St. Lucian, Sandals Ochi and Sandals Royal Bahamian are known to pull a younger crowd. We must quickly mention the amazing Over-The-Water bungalows recently added to the already amazing accommodation choices. The Over-The-Water bungalows include glass floors, Tranquillity Soaking tubs and personalised butler service. They are incredibly popular and sell out fast – if you are considering one,

we recommend booking well in advance. The three Sandals resorts you can find these deluxe bungalows are Sandals South Coast, Sandals Royal Caribbean, and Sandals Grande St. Lucian. The best time to visit the Caribbean is the UK’s cooler months, making this a great destination for those seeking some winter sun. Between December and April, you can expect to see the driest weather along with a pleasant temperature averaging around 25-30C and low humidity. Of course, this also means that this is peak season and prices are slightly higher. Good time to visit is also May, June and November as they fall just outside the rainy season. These months will see great weather but then do tend to be quieter and cost less than the peak winter months. While there is the risk of the odd shower you can expect plenty of sunshine too. The rainy season in the Caribbean typically falls between June and November. This season is characterised by showers and short heavy downpours rather than constant rainfall, so this should not put you off visiting as you can still get plenty of sunshine and a more cost-effective holiday. To find out more and start planning your winter sun, contact our friendly and knowledgeable team here at Harden Holidays. 0800 023 8974 info@hardenholidays.co.uk Dartford town centre.

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Full-time, experienced, qualified yoga teacher, teaching practical yoga and meditation classes in the local community and now online. When Government advice allows, the regular schedule of in person group classes in Hextable, Swanley, Sidcup and Bexleyheath will resume. For now, all regular group classes are being held online. Yoga Alliance Professionals Senior Yoga Teacher and British Wheel of Yoga Foundation Course Tutor, I am qualified and experienced in making yoga accessible. I teach an embodied and practical approach to yoga, breath work and meditation, appropriate for all ages and abilities. You don’t need to be flexible to start! My classes are friendly, everybody is welcome, so come and see how it feels to tune in and connect yourself and feel better. Please visit my website for more information or email me at clair.crestyoga@gmail.com. I look forward to hearing from you.

FITNESS - JULY Who programmes your training?

throwing some running in if you usually lift weights or vice versa). Working your strengths is great and you can make good progress there, but working your weaknesses will really benefit you all around. Improving your cardio will help with lifting weights. Improving your strength will help with running or swimming etc…

It’s fair to say that everyone has exercises they hate. Squats seem to come pretty high on the list for many, as do burpees. Personally, I hate running.

but if my coach tells me that’s the workout for today, then I’ll put my shoes on and run 5k. More often than not, it’s the stuff you find the most difficult that will benefit you the most. The stuff that We tend to do the exercises we really challenges you and pushes you like the most more often and the out of your comfort zone. exercises we like the least less often, if at all. I like strength work, but I know my fitness could be better, so being told This can pose a problem though. to go and run, something I don’t Chances are, the exercises you like consider myself too good at (because are the ones you’re good at or feel I don’t do it), really benefits me. comfortable with, and comfortable Likewise, if you’re “not good” at doesn’t get the best results. squats or you don’t like them, it’s likely because they’re HARD and Sticking to the same old routine you’re more comfortable on a leg because you like it may not be the extension machine or similar. best course of action. So, if you’re told to do squats I believe that almost everyone (assuming you’re able to perform s h o u l d h a v e t h e i r t ra i n i n g them correctly of course), it’ll really programmed for them. Partly help to push you forwards in your because most people don’t really training. know what they’re doing and would benefit hugely from having You don’t need to do everything you their training planned by an expert hate all the time, but including stuff who does know what they’re doing; you find challenging in your routines and partly because it’ll force you will definitely help. Staying in your to do some of the things you’d comfort zone definitely won’t. otherwise avoid. Even if you push yourself hard on the I’ve been a PT for 17 years now and exercises you choose to do, you’ll I know a lot about programming, likely benefit from doing something but even I work best when that’s different for a while, something you’d taken out of my hands. normally avoid because you find it difficult. Especially if it’s completely I’d never decide to go and run 5k, different to your normal routine (like

It can be hard to programme everything you need into your training, you either miss out on key elements, or you do a bit of everything and not enough of any of it to see progress. Try to do something you’d ordinarily avoid, that you think or know will benefit you, at least once a week – your other training won’t suffer from this, it will actually benefit from this. Swap just one of your workouts a week. The stuff you find the hardest is probably the stuff that will benefit you the most. And as always, if you need help with this, or anything else training or nutrition related, get in touch and we can chat about your options. Mark www.MBonlinePT.com @MarkBroadbentPT

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FREE MUSIC TUITION FOR LOCAL SCHOOLS

By Dartford Music School

Sir Mick Jagger and the Dartford Music School have been providing local primary schools with free class music tuition to aid the students’ recovery from the latest lockdowns.

DartfordMusicSchool Patron: Sir Mick Jagger

themickjaggercentre

Red Rooster Enrichment

The Red Rooster project is generously funded by Sir Mick Jagger and normally runs concurrently in local primary schools and at the Mick Jagger Centre. For the past several years, primary school students from around Dartford have gathered every Tuesday afternoon at the MJC to receive two hours of music tuition, including learning an instrument, singing and drumming. This hugely popular project even managed to carry on online through the lockdowns and subsequent temporary closures of the MJC.

sessions. One Red Rooster parent writes, “My child enjoys the challenge of learning the ukulele, it’s a bit like learning a new language! The teacher is good and he really enjoys the lessons.”

The Red Rooster sessions in the MJC are supported by outreach work which is heavily subsidised. Our Red Rooster teachers visit several primary schools every week to deliver whole class instrumental provision to groups of children in years 3 to 6. Many of these children also attend the MJC sessions and go on to continue learning their instrument to a high The tutors are full of enthusiasm standard. and energy and the centre buzzes with excitement during these

It has been scientifically proven that music and singing aid mental health and emotional wellbeing. Dartford Music School are proud that thanks to the generous funding from Sir MickDartfordMusicSchool Jagger they have been able to offer a freethemickjaggercentre Enrichment Package to a number of local primary schools to contribute to the wellbeing of the students at a time when many schools are struggling to catch up with lost learning from the national lockdowns. Children in Reception and Key Stage 2 are receiving free weekly music lessons delivered by Patron: Sir Mick Jagger

specialist music teachers on sets of instruments fully funded by the Red Rooster project. These sessions are a welcome break from academic lessons for both students and their teachers, who are under considerable pressure to ensure children’s academic progress has not suffered in the past 18 months. Headteacher of Wentworth Primary, Paul Langridge, “We greatly appreciate the support of the Red Rooster outreach team in providing first class music tuition for our children. Across the school we have our Foundation Stage children learning percussion, our year 4 children playing the violin and year 6 doing their best George Formby impressions while learning the ukulele. That’s 270 children developing their musical interest and talent through the expertise of the Red Rooster project. These children are being given quality teaching that motivates them to become top musicians of the future.” This Enrichment Package has also been running in the following primary schools: Gateway, Stone St. Mary’s and Sutton at Hone. Red Rooster will be offering this free package from September to a new set of schools. Please contact us now to apply! Individual Music Lessons Dartford Music School has been running fairly under the radar for many years, serving children and adults in the community to enhance their love of music. Based at the Mick Jagger Centre at Dartford Grammar School, the music school offers 1-1 Instrumental lessons to DGS pupils during the school day and is open to the public in the evenings providing high quality music

tuition in many instruments including singing. Throughout both lockdowns, Dartford Music School has continued to offer music lessons, smoothly transitioning between on site and online as necessary. Dartford Music School Manager, Gina Streeks, is passionate about music education and the importance of enabling access for all. “The loyalty and support from the community has been amazing, we feel privileged to have been able to continue our services by adapting to an online provision but it has been so exciting to see everyone in person and fill the MJC with music again since reopening in June. We want to thank everyone for bearing with us through this difficult time and hope that continuing with music has brought some enjoyment to you and your children.” Future projects include: Red Rooster Summer School on 29th and 30th July. Follow us on social media for more details! Dartford Children’s Choir hopes to start in September on Wednesday evenings. Ages 6-8 at 4pm and ages 9-11 at 5pm at the MJC. Dartford Music School and the Red Rooster project are accepting applications both from individuals and schools who are interested in being involved or applying for lessons. Contact: dartfordmusicschool@themickjaggercentre. com for any enquiries. See our website for more details http://www.themickjaggercentre.com/ dartford-music-school.html Follow us on Instagram @dartfordmusicschool, Twitter @Dartford_Music

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WHAT ARE WE GOING TO DO WITH THE CHILDREN? Believe it or not, the school summer holidays are upon us at the end of July. Finding new ideas to keep the children entertained can be a challenge, especially after having them at home so often over the last year. Thinking ahead, doing a bit ofresearch and creating a plan or timetable of activities to keep the kids occupied can help to take some of the stress out of this time. Read on for fun ideas you could try and enjoy a stress-free summer holiday with the family. Get outdoors We’ve all experienced the blessing that is the great outdoors during the lockdown, and with the weather looking good, getting out and about over the summer is a no brainer.

• Kids often have their own unique sense of style so customising their old clothes can be a fun way to let their creativity loose. This can be enjoyable for kids of all ages – and adults too! Search for upcycling • Make packed lunches and take tips online. the kids on a nature hike. There are activity sheets you can download • Get the kids making temporary online to help get the kids hunting. tattoos out of paper, perfume and water – you’ll find loads of tutorial • Create a treasure hunt in the garden videos on YouTube to show you how. or check out geocaching.com – both fun activities for zero cost. • Get in touch with your local Friends Get adventuring of Park group and take part in a With many places reopening with limited numbers, it pays to plan a community litter pick. • Get together with friends and trip in advance. Theme parks and organise a mini sports day followed zoos can be an expensive day out for a family, but there are ways to by a group picnic. cut some of the costs. Get crafty

• Travel by train. Check out dayFor those days when the weather soutguide.co.uk/uk-days-out for isn’t too great, it’s good to have various deals. some ideas of activities you can • Look out for discount vouchers on do indoors. products in the supermarket. • If you’re planning a mini sports day, get the kids making medals, score • Bring the zoo to you with Chester sheets, and maybe some bunting Zoo’s official YouTube channel. Create that fun adventure vibe by setting out of leftover fabric. up a blanket in the living room and

having a picnic lunch. Whatever you do, remember to take the sun cream (and the raincoats – after all, we are in England!) Christians Against Poverty (CAP) is a UK charity with over 580 services across the country delivering debt counselling, money management education, job clubs, life skills groups and more. Visit capuk.org to find out more.

STAYING HEALTHY THROUGH THE SUMMER By Dr Julie Taylor

generate vitamin D) can also damage the DNA in your skin cells. If this DNA damage builds up over time, cells can start growing out of control, which can lead to skin cancer. More than eight out of 10 cases of melanoma (the most serious type of skin cancer) are linked to overexposure to UV rays. With the exception of short exposure to make vitamin D, it is advised that you cover up or use sun protection, especially around the middle of the day when the sun is strongest. To stay safe: 1. Slip on some loose clothes with a tight weave to protect your skin from the sun and help keep you cool. 2. Slop on a good quality sunscreen: buy one with UVA protection, a 4 or 5 star rating and at least sun protection factor 30. Put it on 30 minutes before you go outside and reapply frequently. Don’t forget your lips! 3. Slap on a wide brimmed hat and sunglasses. UV radiation can cause cataracts. 4. Seek shade in the hottest part of the day. 5. Drink plenty of water – aim for at least 6-8 glasses or cups of fluid a day, more if you feel thirsty.

Going out in the sun is good for you. Our body creates most of our Vitamin D from the action of sun on our skin between the end of March and the end of September. We also get a small amount from oily fish, red meat and eggs. Vitamin D is essential for healthy bones.

not to burn though!

To make enough vitamin D, you should spend a short time outdoors every day without suncream from March to September. In the summer months (June-August) you should have your face, hands, forearms and lower legs uncovered, and just hands and face exposed in the cooler months. This will give your body a supply of vitamin D to keep it going over the winter months. Because we do get some rain and can’t always get outside in the sun, it is often recommended to aim for 30 minutes, between 11am and 3pm, 3 times a week. Be careful

If in doubt, check it out Most skin cancers can be cured if detected early. About once a month, check your skin for moles or marks that are changing or new. This is especially important if you are at increased risk of skin cancer. You can download the Miiskin app to monitor any changes, new bumps, Staying safe in the sun moles or lesions on your skin. Tell The sun gives out ultraviolet (UV) your doctor about any changes to a radiation, which is made up of UVA, mole or patch of skin, or a new mole UVB and UVC rays. The most serious or mark on adult skin. harm the sun can cause is to increase your risk of getting skin cancer. UVB rays (the same ones that help you to

People with dark skin, such as those of African, African-Caribbean or Asian origin, will need longer in the sun to make as much vitamin D. Some people may need to take a supplement if they don’t spend enough time outdoors, or if they are covered up when outside. It is also recommended for children under 4 and pregnant women. You can buy vitamin D supplements online or from a pharmacy, supermarket or health food shop. We recommend a maintenance dose of 400-800 units (10-20 micrograms) per day for adults.

LIFE UNDER THE STAIRS

By Local Resident, Jane Stevenson

I joined a small band of stalwart folk last week. We met in the village, were issued with bright red hi-viz tunics, gloves, plastic bags and long grabbers and dispatched to far flung outposts of the community to litter pick.

I’ve seen many local people doing this over the recent months. Perhaps lockdown prompted us to take a fresh look at our neighbourhoods? Not a bad idea, whatever the reasons.

regarded as a ‘safe’ high by many younger folk, it is worth remembering that too much nitrous oxide can result in unconsciousness and/or suffocation. Probably not the best way to end an evening with mates! This got me thinking about another area which I helped clear recently. It’s a secluded spot, no traffic and can be inaccessible in very bad weather. Years ago, my kids used to play there, build camps, ride their bikes and generally have a good time. My volunteer colleagues and I collected five bags of rubbish this time including the aforementioned cylinders, vaping material and other smoking debris, the inevitable bottles and cans and old clothing. We piled up the larger items including old mattresses, a burnt aluminium ladder and a traffic warning sign and arranged for the council to collect.

This area is both mysterious and promising. This area of woodland is relatively unused by most of the inhabitants. Dog walkers may of this road is bounded by fields for occasionally venture into its leafy much of its length, and it was here space, but most of the time it just the litter damage was most prevalent. exists! Apart from the expected cans and bottles, there was a plethora of I do have some sympathy with the sandwich bags and disposable coffee younger community; while not cups from several of the well-known condoning the use of any substance chains. I began to wonder if people which lessens self-control, there is fully understood the meaning of little else available in the village. disposable! Obviously, there is some No green spaces, an infrequent bus type of confusion within the English service to the town and no shops. This pattern is repeated across the language. outlying communities of Dartford. I also checked the smaller roads in It is little wonder kids here deviate the area: they were relatively litter towards a quiet, shady area for a drink and smoke. free. We are a tidy lot in Hawley!

Not being particularly fond of exercising, I was surprised at how much I enjoyed myself. Not only did I have a long walk around the streets where I live, I got to talk to people in their gardens, unloading shopping from cars and those just out and about enjoying the warm weather. Collectively, our group managed to collect over 50 bags of rubbish too. As I worked my way further up the Times have changed. Youth clubs road I came across a collection of don’t exist anymore. Sport and I ‘picked’ Shirehall Road. One side the small gas cylinders. Incorrectly uniformed groups aren’t for everyone.

Many groups are town centric relying on lifts from parents and carers to attend. It doesn’t have to be this way. This woodland is an ideal place for community use. There is space to explore, paths to traverse, a natural habitat to wonder about. It is large enough to hold some benches and tables, somewhere families can enjoy a couple of hours outdoors. It needs so little in the way of intervention. There is no through traffic and it is not close to housing. Access by road isn’t possible. It is a gift in the making for this village. It will require some funding, some tidying up and some local management. Nothing that will break the bank. In return we would enjoy the benefits of a woodland where all could enjoy the beauty of nature. Perhaps somewhere the local nurseries and preschools could use as a learning experience. For older residents, what could be more relaxing than taking a book and a drink for a quiet read?

Steve Cook postcard final:Layout 1

27/1/14

If lockdown has highlighted anything, it is the need to make more of our surroundings, provide more local amenities and offer something for all. There are many such areas dotted around the borough. Maybe we should take charge and responsibility for them and reclaim these spaces for all of us. Have a good month all.

12:15

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RIO FERDINAND REVEALS WIFE, KATE, COMPARES HIM TO A “WASHING MACHINE” WHEN EATING - AS THE SUPERSTAR SPORTSMAN TAKES ON THE NATIONS FOOD FAILS • • •

• • •

Ex-footballer and TV pundit, Rio Ferdinand, has taken part in a unique food experiment that sees the superstar sportsman sitting in the hot seat and taking on the nation’s food fails Rio talks life at home – unveiling wife, Kate, compares him to washing machine when eating and how his kids have to play music to drown out the noise during dinner time The sportsman dishes the dirt on Kate’s strange snack habits and reveals he has put a LOCK on the kitchen doors to keep the kids out Rio Ferdinand creates an edible ‘Snackadium’, to be enjoyed during a summer of sport with the Euro’s, on now, and Olympics just weeks away Commissioned by Peperami, the challenge follows a recent survey where one in four Brits believe British food is boring Rio speaks to Peperami team in new Q&A - talking family, life in lockdown, date nights with Kate and the Euros!

Tell us about the ‘Ban the Bland’ campaign with Peperami! What made you want to get involved? Is there anything you were dreading or looking forward to as part of the experiment? As a nation, we’ve got a bit of a reputation for our food being bland and boring. So, when Peperami asked me to get involved in the campaign, my competitive nature came out and I jumped at the chance to take part, eager to show people how we can do it better. As part of the experiment, the crew had me try some of the nation’s food fails – which I was dreading! I wanted to see if some of the strange combinations could be wonderful, but on the day, they were just plain awful! Being an ex-footballer, the crew had me trying foods famous at matches – such as a ‘Wigan kebab’ and jellied eels, which weren’t for me. My favourite part of the day was creating my snack solution – ‘The Snackadium’ – an edible football pitch perfect to tuck into when watching the Euros. The Peperami team gave me the power to go nuts and produce something really cool, that I can’t wait to bring out when watching games with Kate and the kids. You’ve spent a lot of time over the years either playing or watching football matches – what is your go-to snack when at the match and go-to snack at home? When you’re playing football, it’s really important to keep up your energy levels throughout the match, so high-carb meals such as pasta and chicken were always my go to

before a game. Now I’m on the go so much and I work as a pundit on live games for BT Sport, so I don’t need to be as specific about what I’m eating but still like to get the balance right- but the half time snacks are still important! We usually get lots of options in the studio or I’ll take things with me from home. Something that is quick and easy that you can grab easily is good option. I always have a half time cup of tea or coffee and a biscuit, particularly to warm me up on the colder matchdays. What food to you is boring Rio, what are your food or snack nightmares? Is there a food or snack you could live on forever? What is Kate always munching on? Are there any quirky food combinations that you, Kate or your kids have? Basically, any food lacking in taste is an absolute nogo. I love big flavour combinations which is another reason I wanted to be a part of the ‘Ban the Bland’ campaign- I just can’t see the point of eating something tasteless. The main thing I don’t like is food or snacks being too plain or dry. After dinner, we do have a sweet tooth, so we treat ourselves to a range of sweets to relax in front of the TV. My favourite meal is chicken and rice- the key to it is the special seasoning, which is what makes the meal taste so good. We’ll often have that at home. I have always been a fan of trying out foods, but I am an Italian food fan, that’s why I got involved in opening up a restaurant in Manchester called Rosso. I’m also a big fan of Pie and Mash! But you have to do it proper, with the liquor and all! With food, it’s all about balance though, I like to enjoy my food but also make sure I’m keeping it balanced. What is your biggest culinary pet peeve? Does Kate or your kids have any bad dinner table habits? What bad habit would they say you have? Is food the way to your heart? What would someone have to whip up to get your attention? My biggest pet peeve is bad table manners. Leaving

the table without asking and having your phone with you at dinner times are all banned in our house. The kids know what’s expected of them at the table and what I’m not going to stand for! They’d probably say my bad habit is snacking in the kitchen before a meal-time. When Kate’s doing dinner I will always want to try it before it’s been plated up and I probably make a bit of a nuisance of myself in the kitchen. I do think food is the way to my heart though, I love eating out and good home cooked meals as well. As I’ve mentioned anything with good flavour would get my attention and meals that take me back to my childhood are still favourites. Meals like stir-fries and curries always go down well in our house too. I really love how food can bring you together, sitting down together at mealtimes or the effort of making a home cooked meal on a date night. If I’m ever feeling down, Kate will make me a roast dinner. Honestly, her Sunday roast is unrivalled. We’ll do a roast most Sundays anyway and it’s always a special family meal. The kids usually get involved and help Kate and I prepare it- Kate does a mean roast potato! How was lockdown for you and the family? Did you struggle? How did you, Kate and the kids entertain yourselves to stop boredom kicking in? Any memorable moments to note? Did you try or find a new hobby? I’m really grateful though for the extra time it’s given me at home with Kate and the kids and to make the most of the little, everyday moments. It made me appreciate the NHS even more for the unbelievable work that they did and are still doing for us all. I’ve got even more respect for teachers too. after having to home-school the kids throughout lockdown! I loved having them at home but I’m pleased they are in their teachers’ capable hands now! I think the whole period was physically and mentally challenging for a lot of people, learning to adapt and not being able to get out and about as much as we’re used to. As my schedule is so busy, it felt strange to be at home a lot. Things were still hectic though and we were able to adapt

and do things online. At the start of lockdown Kate and I did our own live workouts on Instagram, which I really enjoyed, and I also did an online series for my YouTube channel, called The Locker Room, speaking to some footballing legends about their careers. I’m fortunate that football was able to return, even when we were in quite strict lockdowns, so I was able to carry on my work and watching the game that I love. Kate, the kids and I managed to get out on plenty of bike rides and walks around where we live too. We’re always active and do things like this as a family together, but it was nice to have the opportunity to do it a bit more and reset a little bit from our busy lives. A very memorable moment that happened for our family during lockdown though was the birth of Cree! It was strange welcoming him in these circumstances and not being able to visit friends and family or for him to see or play with other children, but we’re just delighted to have him as part of our family and I feel pleased that I’ve been able to spend more time at home following his birth.

food is always incredible. From Instagram, we can see you and Kate and very much into your fitness! What is your secret? How does diet play into your fitness journey? What kind of foods do you eat? Do you still enjoy treats? What is your guilty pleasure? Absolutely, Kate and I are both very focused on our fitness and keeping a healthy diet. Obviously from my career as a footballer I was used to exercising daily and having a strict fitness regime and I felt it was important to keep that up following my retirement. Now that I don’t play, I’m able to treat myself a bit more often, but in terms of mindset and mental health, it really helps me to have a routine. I think that’s the key to staying focused as well, having a routine. Knowing that every morning or twice a week, whatever it may be, that you’re doing a workout at that time- doesn’t matter if you’re feeling it or not, get up and get it done and you always feel good afterwards.

Have you and Kate been able to squeeze in any date nights since welcoming Cree? What is the perfect date night for you both? Do you like to go out or stay in? What kind of movies do you watch on Netflix? Who rules the remote in your household? What kind of food do you tend to snack on?

That being said, it’s all about balance and we do snack and have treats sometimes. We like to set a good example to the kids to eat healthily but we also want them to have a positive relationship with food and eating, so we’ll have things like biscuits and takeaways in moderation. My guilty pleasure is probably a Friday night kebab, can’t beat it!

Kate and I always try and find time to spend some quality time together and have a date night. We’ve both got such busy schedules, so it’s important that we make time for each other. Welcoming Cree has made things even more hectic but we’ve managed to find some time for ourselves too.

Any plans for the summer? Are you excited for the Euros? How do you usually celebrate? Who will you be watching it with and how? Will you be getting together with the family or other famous footie faces? Do your kids have the same interest in football as their dad? Does Kate?

It’s been mainly nights in, at the moment, as we’ve both been so focused on looking after Cree and been tired from having a newborn, as well as all of the lockdown restrictions. We do watch a lot of TV series when we’re at home. We’ve really enjoyed Money Heist, Line of Duty, Peaky Blinders, that sort of thing.

Yes, I’m so excited for the Euros and hopefully it’s coming home this summer! We’ve got a really exciting young squad and some unbelievable talent, so I’m excited to see how we do.

I’m looking forward though to us heading out on a proper date night again soon, now that things are opening up again. One of our favourite places is Scott’s restaurant, which has a great atmosphere and the

I’m covering the Euros for the BBC, so will be watching in the studio and on-site with the other pundits including Alan Shearer, Gary Lineker and Ashley Williams. Alan, Gary and I have worked together on a number of tournaments now, so we’ve got a really good relationship and there’s always lots of

banter going on. We normally go out as a team for a meal after some of the matches. One of my favourite moments from the last tournament was Alan Shearer singing ‘All Night Long’ at dinner- although I’m not sure I want him to repeat it this tournament, I think we’ve heard enough! I know Ash really well too, so I’m excited to see what the tournament holds for us and how far England can get. I’ve got also got lots of exciting features coming up on my FIVE YouTube channel over the tournament so if you want Football content head over to the channel, we will be on hand to keep you all entertained! I’m sure if we get the chance around my work commitments we’ll get together as a family to watch a game or two, obviously my brother, Anton, used to play as well, so football runs in the family and it’ll be great to all get together and enjoy a match, if we can. What is next for your career? Will your kids be following in your footsteps? Do you have any other exciting projects you’re working on? What else do

you enjoy doing in your spare time? Have you set any goals for the rest of 2021? I’ve got lots of really exciting projects coming up. I am really enjoying my punditry work with BT Sport and The Euros are just around the corner, so at the moment I’m looking forward to being part of the coverage with the BBC and hopefully to see England bring the trophy home! I will also have lots of exciting content going out across the tournament across my YouTube channel, FIVE, so make sure you subscribe! My two older sons are really into their football- it’s great to see them enjoying the game and that’s the most important thing for me to see at the moment. It’s always been important to me that they play because they want to, not because their Dad did. If they did get into football professionally, then great but I always remind them that it’s all about hard work and dedication! I’ll support them in whatever it is that they choose to do though. As long as they give it their all.

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CAR NEWS JULY 2021

By Dhiren Ganesh

In this month’s article we look at a range ofnew hybrids models available from later this year including a new re-branded van.

2022 Lexus NX revealed – this is the all-new Lexus NX SUV, the first Lexus car as a plug-in hybrid. Its looks are based on the current NX with a taster of of the next generation Lexus models. On the inside there is a greater sense of space with a asymmetrical centre touchscreen console up to 14 inches, based on the trim you choose, which is compatible with Apple and Android for smartphone mirroring as standard. At launch you’ll get a choice of models NX350h and the NX450h+, the former is a conventional petrol-hybrid option and the later a fully plug-in hybrid version – allowing 39 miles on only electric power. This is at the top end mile range compared to competitors. All versions of the car will come with an improved automatic emergency braking (AEB) system that offers quicker responses. Prices are expected to start from around £40,000 and will be annouced before sales commence in November 2021.

2021 BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe revealed – this is the new four-door 4 Series promises enhanced handling and more economical mild-hybrid petrol and diesel engines. Its look features dramatic styling, more agile handling and head-turningly huge front grilles. Three petrol and three diesel engines will be available – from the 2.0 litre turbocharged 181bhp version to the range-topping 3.0 litre 369bhp for both. An M4 version is expected in 2022. On the inside BMW have kept the rotary dial controller with the infotainment system. Standard equipment on all UK models includes 18in alloy wheels and M Sport suspension and spoiler, along with M Sport styling details in and out. Available from November 2021 prices will be confirmed closer to the time but expected to start from around £40,000.

design and the complete overhaul of its predecessor with an offer of a plug-in hybrid variant called the eHybrid. The eHybrid engine set-up will offer a 148bhp 1.4 litre petrol engine alongside a separate 114bhp electric motor expected to provide around 20 miles range just on the battery power. A choice of 1.5 or 2.0 petrol engines will also be available at launch. Along with the mechanical revisions, the seven-seater also features an all-new exterior design that blends styling highlights with stylistic cues. There will be 3 rows of seating with the 2nd row being able to be spun round to create a social seating arrangement. The 5 seats from the 2nd and 3rd rows can be completely removed too to transform it into a van. There is a range of advanced safety technology, including road-sign recognition, lane assist and automatic emergency braking. On sale in 2022 the prices are not known but expected to be above £50,000.

2022 Volkswagen Multivan revealed – this new Volkswagen Multivan will replace the Caravelle people carrier and combines plug-in hybrid power with a bold new design. The name change represents the brand new

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Rock Painting in Dartford.

DARTFORD PAINTED ROCKS

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 Oliver: Studio and Gallery Kingsford located in the Orchard Shopping Centre. By Maria 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.

SPORTS ROUNDUP The Danish Football Association wants UEFA to change its procedures following the collapse of Christian Eriksen. Christian Eriksen suffered a heart attack on the pitch in Denmark’s Euro 2020 defeat to Finland last month, which resumed after a two-hour pause in play. His collapse prompted distressing scenes on the field and all of the Danish and Finish players were visibly shaken and emotionally distraught.

UPCOMING EVENTS IN JULY INCLUDE: 11 June-11 July: Football - Euro 2020 26 Jun-18 July: Cycling - Tour de France

The Danish Football Association have criticised UEFA’s move to offer players the option of resuming the fixture on the night or at midday the next day. I agree with the Danish FA on this, as the players would not have been in the right frame of mind so soon after the horrible experience, and to give them that big decision to make is unfair. Is this another example of UEFA prioritising revenue over player welfare? that’s a rhetorical question, as the answer is “yes”!

28 June-11 July: Tennis - Wimbledon

Fortunately, Eriksen is recovering in hospital and is “fine under the circumstances”.

15-18 July: Golf - The Open at Royal St George’s

In a statement UEFA said it “treated the matter with the utmost respect for the sensitive situation and the players. It was decided to restart the match only after the two teams requested to finish the game on the same evening”.

29 June, 1 & 4 July: Cricket - England v Sri Lanka ODIs 8, 10 & 13 July: Cricket - England v Pakistan ODIs 13: Athletics - Diamond League: Anniversary Games at London Stadium

18 July: Formula 1 - British Grand Prix at Silverstone 21 Jul - 21Aug: Cricket - The Hundred 23 July-8 Aug: Olympic Games in Tokyo

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Gareth Johnson, Member of Parliament for Dartford, will be available to meet with constituents on the following dates: Bluewater, DA9 9ST (4.00 pm – 7.00 pm - Appointment required) Friday 2 nd July Friday 10 th September Friday 26 th November If you would like to meet Gareth at one of his regular appointment-based surgeries in the future, please contact him at gareth.johnson.mp@parliament.uk or telephone 020 7219 7047.

WHERE TO GO LOCALLY PARENT AND TODDLER GROUPS - TERM TIME ONLY MONDAYS 9:15am - 11:00am - A&J Toddlers - St Anselms Church Community Centre, Dartford. £2.00 per one adult and child and 50p for any extra children or adults each. Tea/coffee biscuits, small snack for children with juice. Toast 20p per slice Craft table and singing and dancing at end of session Contact Julie on 01322 291092. TUESDAYS Session 1: 9.15-10.45am, and Session 2: 11-12.30pm. Christchurch, Crossroad, Dartford. Contact Catherine on 01322 220036. 9.30am -11.30am. The Salvation Army, 66 Hythe Street, Dartford. Please call us on (01322) 288434 for further information. 9.30am-11.30am Sticky Fingers - £1.50 per adult includes tea ,biscuits and healthy snack time for the children For pre school children up to 4 years St Mary Greenhithe Church Hall London Road Greenhithe Contact 01322 382031 or see www.stmarygreenhithe.com 9:30-10:30am at Fleetdown Utd FC (near Dunelm). £5 per session if you sign up for the term, siblings go free.Contact 07770860450 or Facebook.com/musicandrhymetime WEDNESDAYS 10am -12pm - Little Angels Net Church, (Formerly Gala Bingo Hall) Dartford, £2.50 per family including all snacks and drinks. Catherine 07878658685 11.15am - SLADE GREEN AND HOWBURY COMMUNITY LIBRARY BABY AND TODDLER ACTION RHYME TIME GROUP 12:45pm -2.45pm - Fleetdown Open House - Fleetdown Community Centre, Swaledale Road, Dartford, DA2 6JZ £2.50 per Adult THURSDAYS 9:30am - 11:30am. St Paulinus Church Hall, Manor Road, Crayford. 9.30am-11am Toerags Toddler Group - Adult education centre, Dartford £3 per Child - £1 Non Walkers - facebook.com/ToeRags 1pm-2.30pm Toerags Toddler Group - Adult education centre, Dartford £3 per Child - £1 Non Walkers - facebook.com/ToeRags 10:30-11:30am, at Fleetdown Utd FC (near Dunelm). £5 per session if you sign up for the term, siblings go free.Contact 07770860450 or Facebook.com/musicandrhymetime FRIDAYS 9.30am-11am Baby and me for expectant mothers and mothers / carers of chidren up to 2. £1 per adult St Mary Greenhithe Church Hall, London Road Greenhithe. Contact 01322 382031 or see www.stmarygreenhithe.com 9.30am-11am Toerags Toddler Group - Adult education centre, Dartford £3 per Child - £1 Non Walkers facebook.com/ToeRags 9.30am-11.30am Carer & Toddler Group, St Mary’s Church Hall, Stone Place Rd, Greenhithe. Jeanne 01322 380322 jeannehoadley@ yahoo.co.uk 1-3pm Gigglekidz, Tree Estate Community Centre on Cedar Road - £2 Per Child SATURDAYS 9.30am-11.30am Daddy and Me - A group for dads and male carers of children up to 5years. £1.50 includes healthy snack time for the children. St Mary Greenhithe Church Hall, London Road Greenhithe. Contact 01322 382031 or see www.stmarygreenhithe.com 2-3pm - Lego Club- ages 5 and over - Chrome Road Slade Green DA8 2EL Tel: 01322 333602

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USEFUL NUMBERS LOCAL AND NATIONAL

KEY NUMBERS Police 01622 690690 NON EMERGENCY ONLY Fire Safety Advice & FREE Home Fire Safety Check 0800 169 1125 Dartford Borough Council 01322 343434 Gas Leaks (24 hour) 0800 111 999 EDF Energy Networks Emergencies/ Powercuts Helpline 105 Flooding 03459881180 Highways Kent 03000 41 41 41 Social Services 03000 41 41 41 Water Burst 0800 820 999 (Southern) 0800 714614 (Thames) HEALTH Darent Valley Hospital 01322 428100 Dartford East Health Centre 01322 421480 Boots Chemist Bluewater 01322 624780 (Late Night) ASDA Greenhithe Chemist 01322 374100 (Late Night) The National Pandemic Flu Service 0800 1513 100 West Kent NHS helpline 0800 0 850850 TRAVEL Heathrow Airport Enquires 08700 000123 Gatwick Airport Enquires 08700 002468 National Rail Enquires 08456 484950 Highways England Info Line 0300 123 5000 HELPLINES 24 Hour Kent Dementia Helpline: 0800 500 3014

Alcoholics Anonymous: 08457 697 555 Citizens Advice Bureau: 01322 472 979 Debt Councilling (CAP) 0800 328 0006 Information About Drugs - FRANK: 0800 776600 Kent Homophobic Incident Reporting Line: 0800 328 9162 Kent Racial Incident Reporting Line: 0800 138 1624 Local Breastfeeding Counsellors Judianne/Paula 01322 224072 National Domestic Violence Helpline (24 hour) 0808 2000 247 NSPCC Child Protection Helpline: 0808 800 5000 RSPCA Kent, North West Branch Helpline 01322 286720 Samaritans: 116 123 LOCAL MP Gareth Johnson 020 7219 7047 LOCAL SPORTS CLUBS Bexley Rugby Club 01322 550142 or www.pitchero.com/clubs/bexleyrfc/ Dartford Ladies Hockey Club Dawn Hall (Secretary) 07793 777250 Dartford Ju Jitsu Club Mondays, Dartford Girls Grammar School, Shepherds Lane. 6.30-8.00 Juniors, 8.00-10.00 Seniors www.

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

dartfordjujitsu.co.uk Dartford Sharks Basketball Club Tim Dickson - 07855 692527. Dartford Volleyball Club Graham - 01322 275290 or 07984 106134. Stone Lodge Indoor Bowling Club 01322 274111. VCD Table Tennis Club Eric Jenkins - 0208 3038312. ‘Play & pay’, 9 hole, par 3 golf course on Dartford Football Club’s Princes ParkContact: 01322 299990 www.dartfordfc.com Dartford Valley RFC www.pitchero.com/clubs/ darenthvalleyrfc/ USEFUL FACEBOOK GROUPS Dartford Living Dartford Today and Tomorrow Dartford Remembered Dartford Living Community Group

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ACCOUNTANTS, FINANCE & LEGAL SUMMIT WEALTH...……..............................……………....7 DOWNTON & ALI ASSOCIATES……............……………..59 HOME IMPROVEMENTS THE DOUBLE GLAZING REPAIR MAN………...............…...4 BRONZEWOOD LOFTS…………………................………. 4 CLAREMONT DECORATIVE SERVICES……..........……….46 STEVE COOKE DOUBLE GLAZING ………............……….39 A BAINES AND SON ROOFING ………...............………....53 RELIGIOUS SERVICES CROSSWAYS COMMUNITY CHURCH……............………..51

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PRINTERS DARENTH PRINT………….................…………...………..19 RESTAURANTS, CAFES & FOOD OUTLETS EFES……………………...................……………………..34 THE CHURCHYARD…….................………..……………..26 EDUCATION DARTFORD MUSIC SCHOOL ….............……………...…..18 MICK JAGGER CENTRE ………...............…………………18 MY BLUEWATER TUTOR……..............……………………27 NORTH KENT COLLEGE …….............…………………….31

HOLY TRINITY PRESCHOOL…….............…………………41 WEST HILL CHILDCARE …………..............………………41 TRAVEL GOLDEN LEAS HOLIDAY PARK….............……..................17 SUTTON VALE HOLIDAY HOMES……...............………….21 HARDEN HOLIDAYS ………..................…………………..24 RETAIL THE BED POST ………….......................………………….23 BRADLEY’S JEWELLERS……...................………………...46

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Dartford Living July 2021

Articles inside

Where to go locally

Dartford Painted Rocks & Sports roundup

Car News

Rio Ferdinand reveals all

Life under the Stairs

Dartford Musical School

What are we going to do with the children?

Stay healthy through the summer

Fitness - July

Stanhill Farm

Ore Oduba takes the stage

Debbie’s Delicious recipe

Travel Inspiration with Harden Holidays

Sun Salutations

Senior Snippets

Mayor of Dartford celebrates former RAF radio operator’s 100th birthday

Rock of Ages