Dartford Living July 22 by Dartford Living

JULY 2022 ISSUE 193

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INSIDE THE MAGAZINE NEW DARTFORD FC MANAGER PLAYS IN CHARITY GAME - PAGE 5 WE ARE TEMPLE HILL - EVENTS 2022 - PAGES 8 & 9

WALK THROUGH HISTORY ON DARTFORD HEATH - PAGES 14 & 15

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CONTENTS

New Dartford FC Manager We are Temple Hill! Events Orchard Theatre Walk Through History Dartford’s Big Day Out Travel News- with Harden Holidays Straight out of Dartford Life Under the Stairs Walking With The Darts Senior Snippets Fitness Sport News Wellbeing Car News It’s not mess - we’re mini scientists & mathematicians Interview with Derren Brown Competition Debbie’s Delicious Recipe Where to go Locally Local Clubs and Associations Painted Rocks Advertisers Index Useful Numbers

5 8 10 14 16 20 25 26 28 35 38 39 40 44 45 46 47 48 50 51 54 56 58

DARTFORD LIVING MAGAZINE PRINTED BY: Dear Dartford Living Readers, Welcome to the July magazine - we hope you like it! We continue to 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 never before, your community needs you. In case you weren’t aware, we run Dartford Living alongside volunteer members of the local community for the local community. It’s the only independently run magazine serving the local area with information, fun, good news and positive local stories! Please get in touch if you would like to write an article for the magazine. If writing is not for you, then perhaps you could volunteer to deliver 100 or so magazines to your neighbours. You will guarantee your copy of the magazine and get a little exercise as well! If you email editor@dartfordliving.com we will add you to our e-newsletter mailing list and you will join over 30,000+ local people who read the magazine each month. Take care, Vijay Jain Editor - Dartford Living (and the rest of the fantastic Dartford Living volunteer team)

ONLINE

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www.dartfordbusinessdirectory.co.uk Cover Photo - Dartford Library, Nadine Ong

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NEW DARTFORD FC MANAGER LEADS YOUTH ACADEMY COACHING TEAM TO VICTORY IN CHARITY GAME On Saturday 11 June, Alan Dowson ‘Dowse’, Dartford FC’s new Manager, led the Youth Academy Coaching Team to a 5-0 victory over Charlton Invicta in a football match to raise funds for local charity Abigail’s Footsteps

helped us straight away and we wanted to put this game on to try and raise some funds and awareness of the great work they do. As soon as we announced the match everyone jumped straight in to say they wanted to help, and we are delighted to have had such a big turnout for a fantastic day.” David Ward, Co-Founder & CEO, Abigail’s Footsteps said, “Fundraising events like this are a great way to raise vital funds to support our charity and the work we do in the community with bereaved parents, but more importantly, it’s about raising awareness of baby loss, this year we commemorate 12 years since we started the charity in memory of our daughter Abigail. We would like to thank Russ and all his team for making this event a success.”

The Youth Academy at Dartford FC forms part of the player pathway to first team football at the club. The aim of the Youth Academy is to create a learning environment where talented young players aged 7-16, many of whom have been at professional clubs, can continue to The game was organised by Dartford’s progress. Development Phase Lead, Zach Bowden and Head of Youth Development Russ Searle who To enquire about Dartford Youth Academy player was supported by Abigail’s Footsteps when his vacancies for the 2022/2023 season please visit wife delivered a still born baby four years ago. www.facebook.com/DartfordFCPreAcademy The supporters watched a goalless first half, but the home team’s half time team talk brought Images © Carol White-Griffiths out a new determined Dartford side for the second half and the crowd saw goals from Zach Bowden 2, Emmanuel Oyefesobi 2, and Lee Smith. Dowse, said, “It was a very good atmosphere today, everybody enjoying themselves and it was for a magical cause too which everyone had bought into, and I was very glad that it’s raised a lot of money.” Russ Searle, Head of Youth Development, Dartford, said “Four and a half years ago we had a still born baby Ronnie. Abigail’s Footsteps www.dartfordbusinessdirectory.co.uk

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WE ARE TEMPLE HILL! EVENTS 2022

Healthy Living Centre Dartford is delighted to host a series of “Making Memories” events in Temple Hill Square through to December 2022. Funded by Dartford Borough Council, these monthly events (weekly through the month of August) provide opportunities for local people to enjoy themselves following the pressures of the pandemic, help boost the local economy, promote the local businesses, and support Dartford’s Event, Cultural and Entertainment Sector. home-made cakes and sweet treats. Each event has welcomed a number of small local business market stalls – we continue to invite small local traders to contact us if they would like a table at our future events. We will be bringing The Square to life again on Tuesday 19th July from 12:00 noon until 16:30 with a theme of Healthy Living. The event will include cookery demos, food hacks and tips as well as food-themed activities, arts and crafts, face painting and live entertainment. The event dates for the rest of the year are all Tuesdays: August 2nd, 9th, 16th and 23rd – September 20th – October 25th – November 15th – December 20th. The weather has been kind to us so far – however, if nature decides to send showers or storms the events will take place in Temple Hill Community Centre. We have held three successful events so far, and it has been absolutely wonderful to see The Square buzzing with activity. Local residents and families had lots of fun getting involved! Highlights have included live music, beautiful face art by the fabulous Fancy Faces Facepainting, Graffiti Art workshop, Chinese Circus Skills demo, Magic & Mindreading plus a ReFrame art workshop hosted by DVLPS and Puppets with Guts. At our April event, Kent Scouts brought along the Easter Bunny, who helped them raise funds by selling delicious 8

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If you would like to get involved, have a stall or run a demonstration at any of our events, please get in touch by email at info@ hlcdartford.org.uk. To learn more and stay up to date with all of our activities, please like and follow our Facebook, Instagram and Twitter pages.

On the 3rd Tuesday of each month, Healthy Living Centre Dartford’s Community Hub takes place at 10:00 at Temple Hill Community Centre. We host the fantastic Repair Café team, who will try to help fix most things that need attention and our amazing sewing ladies who can sort out your material issues! Also at the Hub you can grab a cuppa and a cooked brunch, take part in arts and crafts, join in a board game or two and even relax and enjoy a taster therapy session with AMF Holistic Wellbeing by Annmarie. The Healthy Living Centre Community Hub events also take place at the Tree Community Centre in Cedar Road on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of each month.

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Geddes Place Church (Behind Nandos) Bexleyheath Da6 7dj 9.30am Adam 07730 405313

Fleetdown Community Centre Swaledale Road,Dartford Da1 6jz 3.30pm,5.30pm & 7pm Paula 07891 424401

St.John the Evangelist Park hill Road,Bexley Da5 1hx 5.30pm & 7pm Adam 07730 405313

Oakfield Primary Academy Oakfield Lane, Dartford Da1 2sw 5.30pm & 7pm Kate 07590 995948

St.Anselms Parish Centre West Hill,Dartford Da1 2hj 9.30am Gillian 07957 135737

Longfield Community Centre Fawkham Road,Longfield Da3 7qp 9.30am,11am,12.30,4pm,5.30pm & 7pm Lynsey 07764 191073

Oakfield Primary Academy Oakfield Lane,Dartford Da1 2sw 5.30pm & 7pm Kate 07950 995948 WEDNESDAYS St.Edmunds Church St.Edmunds Road, Dartford

Da1 5nd 9.30am,3.30pm,5.30pm & 7pm Bex 07494 813497 St.Peters Church College Road,Hextable Br8 7rh 5.30pm & 7.30pm Kelly 07904 759587 VCD Sports Club Old Road, Crayford Da1 4dn 7.30am,9am & 10.30am Liz 07900 213548 VCD Sports Club Old Road, Crayford Da1 4dn 5.30pm & 7pm Jo 07920 851475 THURSDAYS St.Peters Church College Road, Hextable Br8 7hr 9.30am Kelly 07904 759587 Greenhithe British Legion London Road, Greenhithe Da9 9ej 5.30pm & 7pm Paula 07891 424401

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St.Anselms Parish Centre West Hill,Dartford Da1 2hj 5pm & 7pm Gillian 07957 135757 Baldwyns Park Baptist Church Dartford Road, Bexley Da5 2ay 5.30pm & 7pm Del 07975 541082 FRIDAYS Bexley Football Club Lesley Close, Bexley Da5 1lx 9am Del 07975 541082 SATURDAYS Christchurch Centre Kingswood Avenue, Swanley 8.45am David 07729 504636 Oakfield Primary Academy Oakfield Lane, Dartford Da1 2sw 8am & 10am Sarah 07739 027161

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GLORY BUMPS, GRAVEL AND GHOSTS: WALK THROUGH HISTORY ON DARTFORD HEATH By Clair Humphries

Fancy a stroll across Dartford Heath this summer? Well, you’ll be following in the footsteps of military generals, landed gentry and medieval peasants – not to mention the numerous ghosts reported to haunt this historic corner of Kent. There are over 300 acres of heathland to explore, so why not get out today and walk its well-trodden paths? Just watch out for a few bumps and barrows along the way…

century, resulting in the many ‘glory bumps’ which still exist today. See if you can spot these mounds cut from trenches all over the Heath – they tend to be grouped fairly close together. Animals and birds have always been a vital part of the Heath’s ecosystem so don’t be surprised if you stumble across rabbit droppings and spider webs! Apparently, even the notorious ‘Beast of Bexley’ has been spotted prowling around on one of its excursions along the A2 corridor (!) There are three ponds to discover, all teeming with wildlife and birdwatchers are spoilt for choice. However, sightings of the famous Dartford Warbler might be a rare occurence… Did You Know? The Dartford Warbler bird – often linked with Dartford Heath – was actually first recorded in Bexleyheath!

Designated as common land since Medieval times, the Heath’s history is evident all around. Prehistoric burial sites – otherwise known as tumuli or barrows – can still be found throughout. These banks of earth were piled up to cover the graves beneath and were often topped with rocks or stones. There’s been a lot more digging of holes since then, as the Heath’s resources have been excavated for all manner of building purposes – not least to supply the local brickmaking industry. Chalk, Wildlife Watch: clay and gravel mining began in the nineteenth A tick list to keep the kids busy – can you find any 14

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of the following on Dartford Heath? 1. Beetles 2. Butterflies 3. Dragonflies 4. Lizards 5. Newts 6. Toads Ghostly goings-on are part of the Heath’s folklore, although they generally tend to happen after dark! With its proximity to the old Bexley Hospital, rumours abound of ex-inpatients returning to haunt the area, particularly near Oakfield Lane. Witchlike figures, horses and carriages and Dick Turpin have also supposedly put in an appearance over the years. True or not, residents of the Heath have been a colourful bunch. The Tredegar family were its landowners from the 18th century (there is a Tredegar Road in Wilmington) until bequeathing it to Dartford Council in 1925. Military troops were stationed on the Heath during the Napoleonic War and again in World War Two, when it became an anti-aircraft site. It has also been host to a number of gruesome murders (!) which may account for some of those ghostly apparitions… If this inspires you to explore further why not follow one of the official trails available at www.

dartford.gov.uk for a more guided walk? These red, blue, green and yellow guides provide an excellent selection of trails, for varying abilities (the blue trail also includes a bridleway). Clair Humphries is a freelance writer and Content Partner for Ordnance Survey. Website: www. clairhumphries.com Twitter: @clairhumphries Instagram: clair_humphries

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CELEBRATING THE BEST OF BRITISH WITH DARTFORD’S BIG DAY OUT

Dartford Borough Council has laid on free rides all day! For those wishing to relax and take in the atmosphere, there will be plenty of space to bring a picnic blanket and set up base for the day. If you don’t fancy bringing your own picnic then Central Park Café and a host of food stalls will be on hand to provide refreshments. And when you want to sit back with a cuppa, head to our Great British Tea Tent, where the tea is flowing FREE all day. What could be more British than a nice cup of tea? If music is your thing then head to our main stage, which will host performances throughout the afternoon. Best of British is the theme so expect to see tributes to some of our most famous names as well as local music acts.

Dartford’s Big Day Out will make its debut on 16th July, and as the whole country celebrates Her Majesty’s Platinum Jubilee, this year’s theme could only be one thing – ‘The Best of British’. From 11am till 6pm, Central Park will see entertainment and activities for the whole family, and we hope that our communities will come together to enjoy this free event!

Working in partnership with Cohesion Plus, the day will also feature the best of street entertainment and performances to bring a smile to everyone’s face. Leader of the Council Jeremy Kite said: “Dartford Borough Council has a deserved reputation for putting on great events for local people, but they take a long time to prepare. This year, it was tough to predict what restrictions might still be in place but we have pulled out all the stops to mark this amazing Platinum Jubilee year in style. We’re planning a fun, chilled day out for the whole family. Our Big Day Out will be the biggest party in Dartford this year… and everyone’s invited!” Details of events will be shared on www.dartford. gov.uk/events as they become available.

There will be something for everyone at Dartford’s Big Day Out. We welcome back the very best of the popular steam rally, with a miniature steam Follow Dartford’s Big Day Out on Facebook for railway offering rides around the park. Get up updates on acts, entertainment, and offers as close with a full sized Spitfire taking pride of place they become available. in our British history area, or enjoy traditional fair rides and attractions such as Gallopers, Punch and Judy and a Chair-o-plane. What’s more, 16

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by Harden Holidays Travel Spotlight - Wonder of the Seas Over the course of the Spring we have visited several cruise ships that are new the market this year, and letting you know our thoughts and opinions on these vessels. This month we’ll be talking about a ship we visited a few weeks ago – the World’s largest cruise ship – Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas! On 4th May 4 the world’s newest wonder, Royal Caribbean International’s Wonder of the Seas, arrived in Barcelona, Spain, to kick off a summer full of memorable holidays in Europe. The fifth in the cruise line’s revolutionary Oasis Class line-up sets course for the Mediterranean on 7-night cruises from Barcelona and Rome beginning Sunday, 8th May. With a combination of brand-new thrills and signature favourites on board, Wonder is the getaway where holidaymakers of all ages can make memories as they sail to explore soughtafter destinations such as Florence, Naples and Capri, Italy; Provence, France; and Malaga, Spain. The adventures in store aboard Wonder span eight distinct neighbourhoods – a Royal Caribbean first – that are filled with exhilarating experiences, entertainment, restaurants, bars and lounges to enjoy day and night. Highlights include: Suite Neighborhood – The new, eighth neighborhood welcomes Royal Suite Class guests to a private Suite Sun Deck with a plunge pool and bar complemented by stunning ocean views, and several returning favourites: the exclusive restaurant, Coastal Kitchen; the Suite Lounge and the grandest Ultimate Family Suite yet for a family of 10, complete with an in-suite slide, a cinema and karaoke area, table tennis and more across two stories. The Mason Jar Southern Restaurant & Bar – Already a guest favourite among Wonder’s 40-plus restaurants, bars and lounges, the new hotspot is where Southern comfort food meets Royal Caribbean’s hospitality and creativity. Staples and new twists on classics are on the menu for brunch and dinner, and late at night, capped off with live country music, farmhouse-style decor, a collection of whiskeys and Southern cocktails. Wonder Playscape – Families with kids will find 20

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a brand-new, outdoor adventure designed for precious quality time. Adults can partake in the games or enjoy watching from the sidelines as they take in the ocean views while the young adventurers take on the underwater-themed play area’s slides, climbing walls, interactive features that come alive by touch, puzzles and more.

Wonder’s four “stages”: air, ice, water and theatre. More than 100 performers and technicians, and cutting-edge technology, come together to bring to life full-scale productions like inTENse, featuring the first all-female cast of aerialists, high divers, slackliners and more in the one-of-a-kind AquaTheater; and The Effectors II: Crash ‘n’ Burn, debuting this summer, where Royal Caribbean’s Fan favourites – A lineup of bold signature very own high-tech superheroes – The Effectors experiences are back, including the FlowRider – battle it out with their archnemesis to save the surf simulator, The Ultimate Abyss, the tallest planet once again. slide at sea; the 10-storey-high zip line, and newly designed areas dedicated to kids – Adventure Wonder’s western Mediterranean sailings will Ocean – and teens, Social100 and The Patio. Plus, continue through October, and then in November awe-inspiring neighbourhoods such as Central Wonder will return to the U.S. to sail from its new Park, with more than 20,000 real plants, and the year-round home in Port Canaveral, Florida, Boardwalk, that brings together seaside charm to explore the Caribbean and The Bahamas, and activities for the whole family – from riding including the cruise line’s private island destination, the hand-carved carousel to watching the big Perfect Day at CocoCay. For more about Wonder, match and engaging in friendly competition at including sailings open for bookings, please call the arcade in Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade. Harden Holidays on 0800 023 8974 or visit us in Also setting the stage for this summer’s ultimate Dartford town centre. holiday is the original entertainment across

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STRAIGHTOUT OF DARTFORD bY SHANNON RANDALL We are back this month and better than ever with the latest ‘Straight Outta Dartford’, Caitlin Ounsworth. Recently turned 22, Caitlin is a retail worker, loves crafts, baking and nature, dreams she rarely covers her birthmark due to the of getting married and starting a family one confidence my strive for birthmark equality has given her. This is why I do what I do. I don’t do day, and also has a portwine facial birthmark. this for myself and my confidence. I do this so Caitlin makes online content encouraging little girls and boys don’t walk a single step in people to be more accepting of those with my shoes. I have walked thousands of miles in birthmarks and differences, largely through their tiny little shoes and to this day suffer with TikTok. She began making content in 2020 the trauma from each of those steps.” when the pandemic hit, “I was first inspired to use my birthmark as a source of awareness Caitlin is willing and ready to break down the when I stumbled across the vascular birthmark doors of what the ‘norm’ beauty standard is and ambassadors who inspired me to do the show others that their differences is what makes same.” However now back to full time work, she them so beautiful and unique. She also wants struggles to get the time to always make TikTok to encourage and see more representation in content so also uses her Instagram to “spread the beauty industry. When I asked her about awareness as well as document my birthmark people in the public eye with birthmarks, her journey.” Caitlins content ranges from her using answer was, “I shouldn’t have to Google models TikTok ‘sounds’ to show how people react to her with birthmarks or visible differences to be able birthmark, to educational content on them to to answer this question. I should be able to tell videos championing confidence for people with you where I’ve seen these models but it’s such a rare thing to see a model with a birthmark in physical differences. a shop window. It’s actually concerning that the There is a lot of criticism when it comes to social beauty industry isn’t including such beautiful media, but the online world can actually be an differences in their advertisements.” If even amazing place when it comes to connecting someone with a birthmark themselves struggles people and spreading awareness. “Making to name others in the public eye, then it is clear content has really helped me confidence wise…I we have a representation issue! remember a young girl who also has a facial birthmark reached out to me and told me how As I always do with the inspiring people I speak to for these pieces, I asked Caitlin for advice for others like her out there. “My advice to people with birthmarks would be to keep going. Nothing comes to those that give up on the first hurdle. I’m not saying this journey is easy. In fact it’s far from easy but with every hurdle you leap great things will come. Every hurdle makes your step in this journey to equality greater. Our steps need to be big. They need to be seen. But most importantly, our steps need to be proud. Always remember that without your birthmark you would be like a garden without flowers. We all know gardens are so much more beautiful when there are flowers.” A role model indeed! Follow Caitlin on her TikTok - caitlinounsworth Or her Instagram - re_birthmarkable www.dartfordbusinessdirectory.co.uk

LIFE UNDER THE STAIRS By Jane Stevenson

Hi All SCHOOL’S OUT FOR SUMMER! I’m still waiting for summer. I suspect many parents are as well, although perhaps with trepidation. It’s not long before the school term ends and the long summer break begins. Our children have six weeks off – after the turmoil of recent years regarding schooling, they deserve some quality down time. Yet for some, foreign holidays may well be an unaffordable luxury these days; even a UK break may be a low priority.

quite content to sit with a cuppa while quietly observing his mounting numbers of lettuces. The lessons this young man is learning through following a hobby probably hasn’t occurred to him. Patience, nurture and nature, attention to detail, setbacks and rewards. Such qualities will help him in whatever he chooses to do in life. Recently he brought over a lettuce for me –fresh grown and freshly picked, it was flavoursome and brightened up my dinner plate. I was chuffed to be the recipient of his gardening skills.

There are courses and play schemes on offer for the local children. Fairfield has a programme of activities. I did a swift check of the council’s Summer Sizzler brochure. It is well planned but like Fairfield, is predominantly sports based. A wider range of activities would offer so much more Also, there is a payment element for most. If you have several youngsters, it could cost quite a bit to keep them happy and amused.. You could do a lot worse than follow Freddie’s footsteps. Freddie is a young man who lives near me. He is eleven years old, enjoys cricket and fishing like others his age. However, he differs from his many of his peers with his love of gardening. He has an allotment where he can be found tending his plants and veggies. He is good at this – a neighbour with a plot next to him remarked that Freddie puts many of them to shame. I see him occasionally clutching a pack of seeds or other equipment. I understand he is

Once the schools finish many parents want local activities for their offspring. It would be great to find there are activities which teach through experience. I appreciate sport is popular but there should be a more inclusive programme aimed at those children who like to follow a quieter path. Perhaps we should look towards offering other activities, such as a gardening project, art and drama groups, maybe even offer children the opportunity to take part in some of the crafts we are in danger of losing. Personally, I think Freddie has one answer – we could do with more Freddies!

THANKS FOR THE MEMORIES I hope you enjoyed the recent Jubilee celebrations. I overdid the cream tea and cake thing but hey-ho it’s not like I’ll be taking part in another event of a monarch’s seventy-year reign.

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We were extremely lucky in my neighbourhood with several community events over the fourday period. It gave me a chance to revisit my own offspring’s old primary school for a Jubilee fete. Apart from being a highly enjoyable day, it brought back old memories from the 1990s when my two nippers attended. Just walking around the playground was nostalgic. I could see my much younger self waiting for the children to finish school, and my two running out with book bags, paintings and other projects. They are in their late twenties/early thirties now. I took some photos of the school and its surrounding play areas, so changed from their time. The school has been modernised and offers a more holistic approach to learning from those earlier days. I sent the photos through and rom their comments I suspect they too, looked back to a time when their lives were simpler and mortgage free! Sometimes the Good Old Days are exactly that! Take care people.

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WALKING WITH THE DARTS by Chris Palmer,

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

and Woking boss has had a positive effect upon his immediate arrival. With Bericote Powerhouse Princes Park buzzing once again, the new boss has begun building his team for the season ahead. Captain Tom Bonner has re-signed, together with Connor Essam, Dan Roberts, Luke Allen, Kristian Campbell, Samir Carruthers, and Jordan Wynter. Meanwhile, Dartford Academy player, Cameron Brodie, has signed his first ever contract with the First Team after spending a successful season on loan at Cray Wanderers last term. With pre-season beginning on the second weekend in July, more player signings will be announced, as Alan continues to build his squad in time for the kick-off of the new season in August. All information can be found on the club’s website, so be sure to keep an eye out for further announcements. And, speaking of the website… A new season, Hello again, welcome to another edition of Walking together with a new manager at the helm, With The Darts, a monthly update on all things warranted a new website which went live recently. related to Dartford FC, courtesy of Dartford Living After a lot of effort and hard work by Dave Magazine. Shafford at Dartford Living, the new site brings an updated and fresh look for the club. Once Despite the lack of activity on the pitch, there its fully completed, the new site will bring a new has been plenty going on behind the scenes at experience for supporters to keep up-to-date Bericote Powerhouse Princes Park during the offwith everything related to the club, including an season. And, perhaps the biggest piece of news entire new section dedicated to the Dartford FC since I last wrote is the change in management of Women’s team. the First Team, after the Board of Directors voted unanimously to terminate Steve King’s contract As Connor Dymond’s side begin preparations for towards the end of May. their new season ahead, I’m delighted to write that the new season offers new and exciting The club received positive interest for the opportunities to include additional coverage of managerial position and, after drawing up a their exploits both on and off the pitch. shortlist, swiftly moved to install Alan Dowson as the new manager within a week of Steve King’s Captain Georgie Davis and Co begin their predeparture. And, I’m delighted to write that the season preparations on the 1st of July, before their former Kingstonian, Hampton & Richmond Borough,

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information, or to register your interest, please check out the website. All this just goes to show that, even with no competitive football on the pitch, the workings of a football club continues throughout the year. season kicks-off on the 21st of August. Despite the quietness though, the team has been busy As always, thank you for your continued support during the off-season as well, none more so than and thanks for reading. at the recent Community Fun Day set up by the By Chris Palmer Dartford Supporters Association. There were many exciting activities to participate in on the day, but the ladies were particularly involved in things such as the cup cakes competition, whereby a total of twenty kick-ups would see the victor win said cup cakes! There was also the guess the name of their mascot koala competition, which saw many young imaginations at work. Ultimately, a young lady by the name of Karen won the koala after successfully guessing that her name was also Karen! Congratulations Karen. Meanwhile, Saturday the 18th of June saw Georgie and the team attend an end-of-season awards ceremony for the U10 girls team, where they handed out the awards to the talented youngsters. The club’s relationship with the local community continues throughout the summer with a First Team Meet & Greet, which takes place on Saturday the 2nd of July at Bericote Powerhouse Princes Park. The Dartford FC Women’s team are also holding Open Day Trials on the 26th of June. For more

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SENIOR SNIPPETS By Christina Uppenkamp - Home Instead

Welcome to the latest edition of Senior Snippets: the monthly advisory column with the older members of our community in mind, brought to you by Christina Uppenkamp, Director of Home Instead Dartford. 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 elderly persons as it is more difficult for their bodies to recover from heat stress caused during hot days. With this in mind, here are a few tips on how to stay safe during the warm summer months:

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.

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

DARTFORD FC COMMUNITY DAY By Mick How

He also saw many other acts and stalls, including Adrian, the balloon Modeller (photo) near a face - painting station, the ice cream van, inflatables, new Vauxhall cars and trialists at Bat and Trap. Further along, passing the Champions’ and Darts Burger Bars, Dartford.F.C Women (photo) were busy guessing the Koala’s name, while the mobile DJ, 4x4 BEATS (photo) provided music Sunday 12th June’s Funday at Dartford Football entertainment to keep spirits high, on a lovely, Club attracted a large crowd, from the local warm and sunny day. community and fans alike. Of course, Second Chance Animal Rescue The Mayor of Dartford, Paul Cutler visited (S.C.A.R) pleased all visitors, with carefully and chatted with anyone he met, around the selected and well - cared for animals on display, Bericote Powerhouse Princes Park Community including my little pony! (photo) Stadium site. Dartford.F.C.Supporters’ Association - DFCSA Mayor Cutler joined in with Dartford.F.C’s new (photo) who organised the annual event, also manager, Alan Dowson (Dowse) and Kirk’s steel had a raffle, with stalls for a tombola, bric a band (see photos). brac, summer plants, glitter tattoos and football memorabilia. A few hundred pounds were raised to add to DFCSA’s club funds, while new season tickets, memberships and other schemes were applied for, from the club shop. The club’s Junior Section coaches were on hand to guide young would - be footballers, on the minis and 3G pitches. Once the new league season gets underway, planning ideas for next year’s Funday, will start being in the minds! 36

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FITNESS: TRAINING FOR GOLF When training for sport, it’s important to cover both general fitness AND specific exercises to help improve your game. Golf is no different. It’s actually (despite outward appearances to many) quite an athletic game when you look at a golf swing. There are many nuances to a golf swing but the gross movement pattern is a big ol’ twist. The majority of your rotation will come from Training for golf should include general mobility your spine, hips and shoulders. work, specific (to YOU) mobility/flexibility work, Take away any one of them and one of two strength work and power training. In that order. things will happen:

Jumping straight to strength/power training 1. You’ll have a reduced swing (think of all the old could just as easily make your game worse as it could make it better, so be sure you’re doing the boys with their half-swings) 2. You’ll pick up injuries/aches/pains/niggles in right things, not just anything. the other two Once your body is ABLE to go through a full swing, any lessons you have will be easier to or bonus number 3. BOTH of the above! transfer to the course. Until then, any corrections you try may be fruitless since your body can’t If your spine doesn’t rotate as well as it should, get into the positions required – golf lessons will your hips and shoulders will have to OVER- be much more successful if you can move your body properly. rotate to compensate. If your hips don’t rotate as they should, your Learning to compensate for restrictions will just spine and shoulders will have to compensate... lead to frustration and inconsistency. you get what I’m saying. No-one wants to aim 20 yards left of the pin in If all three don’t rotate as they should (quite anticipation of a slice!

common these days) - you’re definitely not going through a full swing, and losing huge amounts of power and distance (as well as And if you need some help, as always, get in touch. making things harder for yourself). You might be able to muscle your way through We can add power to your swing, distance to to get a bigger swing, but it won’t be smooth your drives, increase your mobility, reduce the risk of injury and ultimately, lower your handicap. and relaxed. If your body can move freely through the required ranges of motion, your swing can Good luck! be relaxed and smooth, and therefore more consistent, more powerful and more accurate. Mobility in your joints is key to playing good golf Mark (and playing it well into old age). www.MBonlinePT.com @MarkBroadbentPT Make sure you are addressing mobility issues, especially rotation. 38

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which uses automated ball detection to enable offsides to be highlighted within seconds, will continue to be trialled. The use of five substitutes has now been introduced into The possible introduction of kick-ins was the laws of the game. However, the trial of discussed at June’s meeting of football’s additional permanent concussion substitutes lawmaking body - the International Football has been extended until August 2023 - despite Association Board (IFAB). calls by campaigners for temporary concussion substitutions to be introduced. Former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger, head of global development for world governing body FIFA, included the idea among several Sporting events in July include: new proposals last year, stating throw-ins and 3 July - Formula 1 - British Grand Prix, Silverstone free-kicks were the “two big time-wasters at the 6-31 July - Football - Women’s Euro 2022, moment”. England 14-17 July - Golf - The Open, The Old Course, St Fifa confirmed proposals were made to test kick- Andrews ins, and although there may be scepticism... 15-24 July - Athletics - World Championships, if proposals help the game, they are open to Eugene, Oregon, United States review them. While the Fifa said there were talks 28 July-8 August - Commonwealth Games, over kick-ins, there were no plans to trial them Birmingham yet. Meanwhile, semi-automated video assistant referee (VAR) technology could be ready in time for the Qatar World Cup. The technology, Ruby Lox A5 Flyer_Layout 1 15/06/2021 14:59 Page 1

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MINOR AILMENTS PART 2 By Dr Julie Taylor Every time I go on social media or read a new article, there is someone complaining about problems accessing GPs. It is true that people are struggling to get appointments, frustrated about hanging on the phone only to find all appointments have gone. We are just as frustrated as you are that we are unable to meet the demand, but we are working as hard as we can with the resources we have.

Conjunctivitis Conjunctivitis is inflammation of the white of the eye and is usually caused through infection or allergy. The eye may feel gritty, look pink or red, may be itchy and may water or discharge pus. It usually affects both eyes, although once may start before the other. The eye should not be painful or sensitive to light and the vision should be normal. If the eye is just red and watering, it is often due to allergy, such as hayfever. Treating hayfever symptoms (see June article) will help.

Most infective conjunctivitis is caused by a virus. Even when it is bacterial, treating with eye drops only reduces the duration of symptoms by a couple of days, it will resolve on its own without I hope this article might help you to manage some treatment. To manage symptoms, use a piece minor conditions yourself and save you the hassle of cotton wool dipped in cooled boiled water and of trying to get an appointment. wipe once from the inside to the outside of the eye and then throw this away. Conjunctivitis is Insect bites and stings very contagious, so avoid sharing towels/flannels Insect bites and stings can cause some localised and pay attention to hand hygiene. redness and swelling, and can be painful or itchy for a few days. Carefully remove the sting, if Babies under 28 days, contact wearers and those still present, put a cold compress on for around with symptoms persisting more than 2 weeks 10 minutes and raise to reduce swelling. Avoid scratching the area. In some cases, redness and swelling can spread beyond the site of the bite/sting itself. This is most often due to a local allergic reaction rather than infection. Your community pharmacist can advise on antihistamines and a mild steroid cream, such as 1% hydrocortisone. Contact your GP if the symptoms are not starting to improve after a few days or if it gets worse, if a large area (more than 10cm) around the bite becomes red or swollen, or if there are signs of infection such as pus, increasing redness, fever or flu-like symptoms. After a bite or sting, if you develop wheezing or difficulties breathing, a swollen face mouth or throat, a fast heart rate, feeling faint or loss of consciousness, this may be a sign of a rare severe reaction known as anaphylaxis - call 999 for an ambulance. 40

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should see a GP. Contact lens wearers should not wear lenses until the eyes have recovered and treatment has finished. Blepharitis Blepharitis is a common eye condition where inflammation causes red, sore eyelids and sometimes crusting (like dandruff) at the base of the eye lashes. It is often associated with a dry or burning feeling to the eyes. The tiny glands in the eyelids that make oil as part of the tear film become blocked. The most important treatment is ‘lid hygiene’, which should be carried out twice a day. Wash your hands and then hold a hot flannel or microwave eye pad over the eyes for 3 minutes (careful not to burn yourself), immediately after massage the eye lids to release the softened oil. Finally, cleanse the edge of the eyelid with a cotton bud soaked in tap water. If your eyes are dry you can try some lubricating eye drops, which you can buy from your pharmacy. Ear wax Ear wax is produced to help keep your ears clean and infection free. It naturally works its way out of the ear and, for most people, doesn’t cause any problems. However, if it builds up it can block your ear and cause reduced hearing, earache,

ringing/buzzing in your ear or feeling sick/dizzy. To clear wax yourself, put some olive oil or ear drops in your ear whilst lying on your side and stay on your side for 5-10 minutes to allow the drops to penetrate the wax. Wipe away anything that comes out of your ear. Do not put fingers or cotton buds in the ear canal – it just pushes the wax further down. Not all GP practices can remove ear wax, but some do microsuction or ear irrigation. You can also get this done privately at some pharmacies, opticians and other sites. If you are having ongoing problems after 5 days of treatment or if you have pain in your ear, please contact your GP for advice.

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

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In this month’s article we look at the growing rear bumpers, with a prominent front grille range of electric SUV models becoming and LED lights at the front and rear. The iX1 available to all. includes highlights in blue along its lower edges to showcase its electric nature. At lunch one version will be available with two electric motors with four-wheel drive developing 308bhp. On one full charge it can travel 272 miles which is higher than most of its rivals. Inside, the new iX1 features a 10.7in digital instrument panel and a 10.25in infotainment touchscreen with plenty of features which can be controlled by touch, gesture or voice rather than a rotary controller. Other features include dual-zone climate control, four USB-C ports for charging your devices, a 12V power supply in the centre console – plus another in the boot – and a six-speaker stereo. Prices for the X1 start from £35,130 when availble in November 2022 (will 2022 Lexus RX SUV – the all-new Lexus RX qualify for the Government’s £1500 plug-in car brings plug-in hybrid power to the line-up for grant). the first time. This expands on its hybrid lineup and named the PHEV RX is up aginst some comptetion in its class. There will be a few versions from the 350h to the 500h. The 350h has a 2.5-litre petrol engine with an electirc motor which combined produces 242bhp. This version will be able to use purely electric power at low speeds such as around town. There have been several exterior styling changes to the RX, including a new version of the Lexus grille, sharp body creases and a continuation of the ‘floating roof’. Inside, the new RX features a driverfocused interior with a new 14in touchscreen housing the car maker’s latest infotainment system. Prices are expected to start from £58,000 when available from later in 2022. 2025 Cupra UrbanRebel – the Cupra UrbanRebel previews an upcoming small electric SUV which will be offered with up to 223bhp and a battery capacity of 60kWh with an estimated range of more than 270 miles. Being based on bespoke electric car underpinnings, the UrbanRebel should have a flat floor inside – which is good news for leg room – because there’s no need for components such as a gearbox tunnel as you would find on a petrol or diesel powered car. Inside, the UrbanRebel has a big-car feel, with a floating centre console, curved infotainment display and hidden air vents. Details are not 2022 BMW iX1 electric SUV – this is the BMW iX1 known yet but prices expected to start from is the brand’s most affordable and smallest approx. £25,000 when released in 2025. electric SUV yet. It has aggressive front and 44

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activities that will stimulate their interests and really challenge their learning and development – all through play.

IT’S NOT MESS - WE’RE MINI SCIENTISTS & MATHEMATICIANS! By Nicola Hibon-Jackson

As any parent will know, young children have some habits that can drive you just a little bit crazy. Think of toddlers constantly emptying boxes and climbing on furniture, or babies throwing objects from the highchair and pressing the same button on a toy again and again!

Whether your child loves to fill handbags or pots with tiny things they’ve found or they’re obsessed with wheels, roundabouts or sticks, child specialist Louise Buckley, at KatieB Kids, says that by tapping into your child’s inner motivation, you will support them to reach their full potential – and make your life much easier in the process! The first free workshop is at KatieB Kids at St Luke’s Chapel in Stone on Weds 6 July at 7pm – to book call KatieB Kids on 01322 277 200 or at www. katiebkids.co.uk/our-family

Education experts refer to these patterns of play as ‘schemas’ and they’re perfectly normal behaviour that all children go through as they grow, develop and explore the world. Schemas are the way that children begin to learn how things work and find out how different things react. KatieB Kids Nursery in Stone, Dartford is offering FREE workshops for local parents, including about how to recognise which schema your child prefers and re-direct unwanted behaviour by creating

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INTERVIEW WITH DERREN BROWN

shows, Infamous, (2013, 2014), Miracle (2015, 2016) and Underground (2017, 2018) have also enjoyed critically acclaimed seasons in London’s West End. In 2017 he made an award-winning US stage debut at the Atlantic Theater in New York with Derren Brown: Secret, which transferred to Broadway, enjoying a sell-out season at the Cort Theatre, New York until Jan 2020. Ahead of his tour, Derren answered some questions about Showman. So Derren, you’re finally going back on the road with Showman, your first new UK show for six years. Excited? I’m sure anyone looking at touring this year is unusually excited. It’s a particular privilege to be doing it given what an impossibly disheartening time it’s been for people who worked in theatre. The show was originally due to open the first day of lockdown, so it’s been a long pause. The thought of finally getting it on the road, let alone seeing a crowd of people in an auditorium… all of that seems bizarre and exciting and extraordinary. So yes, it’s going to be a huge treat.

Showman was conceived before the pandemic struck. Has the direction of the show changed Showman is Derren Brown’s first brand new stage as a result? tour in six years. The content of Showman remains a closely-guarded secret but Derren has revealed: S t r a n g e l y , t h e s h o w pre-Covid was, at its “The heart of the show is about remembering heart, about how the tough things in life what’s important. Like how the very things that that we feel isolate us, tend in fact to bring we find most isolating in life - our fears and us together, and be the very things that we difficulties - actually connect us. Framed with what share. And then lockdown happened, which was I think will be some extraordinary demonstrations a strangely literal playing out of that theme. So of my voodoo”. He adds: “Strangely, the show although the benefit of extra time has allowed pre-Covid was, at its heart, about how the tough us to re-work the show a little and change some things in life that we feel isolate us, tend in fact aspects of it, its heart has remained the same. to bring us together, and be the very things that we share. And then lockdown happened, which Your live shows are k n o w n f o r b o l d was a strangely literal playing out of that theme. theatrics and the strong, personal connection So although the benefit of extra time has allowed you make with your a u d i e n c e s . W i l l us to re-work the show a little and change some Showman follow suit? aspects of it, its heart has remained the same”. Well I hope so! We - my little team and I - try to Derren’s live shows have won him two prestigious provide a kind of experience you wouldn’t get Olivier Awards – for Something Wicked This Way anywhere else. Not at a play, not at a magic show, Comes (2006) and Svengali (2012) and he has not anywhere. That’s always been a driving force. received more Olivier nominations and wins than And I try to make the shows about the audience any other one-man show in theatre history. He rather than about me. My manager once mentioned has played to sold-out houses across the country that the shows were unusual in that they weren’t every year since 2003 to over 1.6M people. Previous all about the magician on stage. I liked that and

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RUES: 1. The w alternative priz participating co by email once

we now keep that consciously in mind when we put the show together. That’s part of growing up, too: both as a person and as a performer. What have you missed the most about being on tour? The headspace. My old rhythms of finding coffee shops, writing all afternoon and then heading out to do the shows in the evening. And spending time with my small crew: although they change a little form year to year, they’re always fine people I choose because I know we’ll all get on and have a good time. And also there is something liberating in having just the one clear thing - the show - to be concerned with. The first few weeks it might be finding its feet, but after that it’s just tweaks and improvements and the pleasure of doing it and finding out how to enjoy each moment. And I get to be this well-rehearsed, charismatic version of myself night after night, which will also be liberating after a year and a half of lockdown and the deflated sense of self that has unavoidably brought.

familiar for an audience. But at the same time, the experience and shorthand under our belt - it’s pretty much always been the same little team - is invaluable. The challenge of finding ideas we haven’t done before both gets harder, of course, but therefore more interesting. But when we put Secret together for a Broadway audience with our ‘best bits’ from previous shows (it was the same material as Underground that played here), we may have saved ourselves the trouble of finding new routines, but shaping them to form a new show with a heart and a sense of cohesion brought a whole new set of challenges. So there’s no rhyme or reason to what makes a show easy or difficult to put together. They’re always a mountain to climb, but the views are terrific. Showman is at the Orchard Theatre from Mon 8 - Sun 14 August 2022.

Finally, this will be your 16th year on tour. Does it get any easier? Not really. Each show has to be built from scratch, and although each show teaches us something about structure that can be carried into future shows, you also don’t want things to feel too

COMPETITION

Win a pair of tickets for ABBA Forever - LIVE In Concert on Wednesday 31 August 2022. ABBA Forever is one of the UK’s leading international tribute shows and theatre audiences from across Great Britain and Sweden have long enjoyed this superb recreation of possibly the world‘s greatest pop band. The unique ABBA look and sound is replicated with an incredible attention to detail as the beautiful lyrics penned by Benny and Bjorn are sung in wonderful harmony by all six performers on stage. Dynamic non-stop choreography, stunning visuals, top-class musicianship and an ALL-LIVE performance ensures that the tribute ABBA Forever show captivates audiences from the opening refrain to the final sing-along chorus of this two-hour spectacular. ABBA rose to fame after winning which song competition? 1. The Voice 2. Britain’s Got Talent 3. Eurovision Song Contest Email competition@dartfordliving.com by the 20th July to be in with a chance of winning. RUES: 1. The winner(s) will be the first correct entry/entries drawn. 2. The judge’s decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. 3. Prizes are as stated and no cash in lieu or an alternative prize will be offered.. 4. Winners will be notified by telephone by the Orchard, within 5 working days of the competition being drawn. 5. Employees and the immediate families of participating companies are ineligible to enter. 6. Closing date for the competition is stated above. 7. 7. All entries will be added to the Dartford Living mailing list to receive a copy of the magazine by email once a month. Please state when you enter the competition if you don’t wish to be added 47 www.dartfordbusinessdirectory.co.uk

SUMMER FRUIT FLAPJACKS

What to do:

By Debbie Dickinson

Preheat the oven to 170°C (Fan) Prepare a 8” square brownie tin with greaseproof paper (or use a silicon tin)

These delicious treats take no time at all to make and are perfect for cutting up ready for school lunches and days out. I feel really lucky that I could use my own honey and was able to pop into the garden and pick the fruit I have put in mine, but any fruit – fresh, frozen, dried or tinned (drained first) will work fine. Adapt the recipe to put in the things you like. Nuts, seeds will also work – what else could you put in them!!! What you need: 150g Unsalted Butter 150g Brown Sugar – Light and dark will taste differently so use which you prefer (or which is in your cupboard!) 3 tbsp Honey 300g Porridge Oats 200g Summer Fruits or selection of fillings – I used Raspberries, Redcurrants, Tayberries and Gooseberries

Pop the Butter, Honey and Sugar into a saucepan and heat gently to melt the butter and dissolve the sugar. Turn up the temperature slightly and, once it starts to bubble, remove from the heat and stir in the oats. Add half of the fruit filling and stir to combine. Pour into a brownie tin and level the mix. Sprinkle over the rest of the fruit and press down into the mix. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the top looks a beautiful golden colour. Leave to cool on a cooling rack. Cut into squares and serve. I divide mine into 25 squares, but you can cut them as big or small as you need. Enjoy!!!

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PARENT AND TODDLER GROUPS - TERM TIME ONLY MONDAYS 9:15am - 11:30am - A&J Toddlers - St Anselms Church Community Centre, Dartford. £2.50 per one adult and child and 50p for any extra children or adults each. Tea/coffee biscuits, small snack for children with juice. Craft table and singing and dancing at end of session Contact Julie on 07917 843592. TUESDAYS Session 1: 9.15-10.45am, and Session 2: 11-12.30pm. Christchurch, Crossroad, Dartford. Contact Catherine on 01322 220036. 9.30am-11.30am Sticky Fingers - £1.50 per adult includes tea ,biscuits and healthy snack time for the children For pre school children up to 4 years St Mary Greenhithe Church Hall London Road Greenhithe Contact 01322 382031 or see www.stmarygreenhithe.com 9:30-10:30am Music and Rhyme Time at Fleetdown Utd FC (near Dunelm). £5 per session if you sign up for the term, siblings go free. Contact Katie on 07734661352 or Facebook.com/musicandrhymetime WEDNESDAYS 1pm -2.45pm - Fleetdown Open House - Fleetdown Community Centre, Swaledale Road, Dartford, DA2 6JZ - £3.50 per Adult - £1 Siblings Bottomless refreshments. THURSDAYS 10:30-11:30am, Music and Rhyme Time at Fleetdown Utd FC (near Dunelm). £5 per session if you sign up for the term, siblings go free. Contact Katie on 07734661352 or Facebook.com/musicandrhymetime FRIDAYS 9.30am-11am Toerags Toddler Group - Adult education centre, Dartford £3 per Child - £1 Non Walkers - facebook.com/ToeRags 9.30am-11.30am Carer & Toddler Group, St Mary’s Church Hall, Stone Place Rd, Greenhithe. Jeanne 01322 380322 jeannehoadley@yahoo.co.uk 1-3pm Gigglekidz, Tree Estate Community Centre on Cedar Road - £2 Per Child SATURDAYS 2-3pm - Lego Club- ages 5 and over - Chrome Road Slade Green DA8 2EL Tel: 01322 333602 BABYBALLERS Themed Football and multi skills sessions are suitable for girls and boys aged 16 months to 5 years old. Your little superstar will learn shapes, colours, numbers and lots, lots, more all through playing the BabyBallers way! Classes in Dartford, Northfleet, Gravesend and Ebbsfleet on Fridays and weekends. Please visit https://babyballers1.class4kids.co.uk/ or email matt@babyballers.com 50

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LOCAL CLUBS AND ASSOCIATIONS IN AND AROUND DARTFORD - DUE TO COVID PLEASE CHECK WITH ORGANISER TO MAKE SURE THE CLUBS ARE STILL OPERATING THE NORTH WEST KENT BRANCH OF THE MOTOR NEURONE DISEASE ASSOCIATION meets on various date at Birchwood Country Club For more information contact Alexon 01322 228169.

WILMINGTON AND AXSTANE PROBUS CLUB We are a group of retired men who meet monthly for a lunch and a speaker at the Swanley Bowls Centre. We also have a monthly walk and occasional coffee mornings and DARTFORD OSTOMY GROUP SUPPORT (DOGS) as a side line we raise money for a local meet every third Wednesday in the month at St charity. If you are missing the contact with Anselm’s Parish Centre, West Hill, Dartford DA1 other business men since you retired, why 2HJ from 1.00 pm to 3.00 pm. It is for anyone not come and join us on the last Thursday of who has an Ileostomy, Colostomy, Urostomy, every month. For more details contact Phil Burt IBS and pouch, their carers, family and friends. on 01322 274541 or look at our website www. waprobus.com ALL DIRECTIONS is a community learning organisation for adults and young people aged 16+ with physical, THE NATIONAL WOMEN’S REGISTER learning and mental health difficulties. For The National Women’s Register (NWR) is more information, attend a taster session a national organisation that meets in the or visit our community lunch club, contact Dartford area. The NWR is a discussion group Caroline on 01322 837172 or 07570 347612 for ‘lively minded women’. Contact can be made via www.nwr.org.uk or call 01603406767 AGE UK, CRAYFORD LIBRARY POP IN PARLOUR COFFEE MORNING every Friday morning 10.30 - HEALTHCARE RETIREMENT GROUP 12.30 Tea, Coffee, Biscuits and a chat - Just £1 Dartford & Gravesham Branch. Meets the first Wednesday of every month at BEXLEY AND DARTFORD BRANCH PARKINSONS the Masonic Hall, West Hill, Dartford from 10UK 12pm.Activities include guest speakers, outings, For people with Parkinsons and their carers. lunches, holidays and quizzes. For more Dartford: 2nd Wednesday of each month, Mick information contact Jagger Centre, 7 -9pm. Information support Marion on 01322 402967 workers available, guest speakers and quizzes. Contact Wendy Leach. Tel: 02083065973 WHEELCHAIR EPEE FENCING Wheelchair epee fencing in Dartford and THE WELLBEING LINK Gravesham, we are delighted to announce that The Wellbeing Link meets on Friday mornings New Ash Green Epee club, can now introduce from 10-1pm in the St. Anselm’s Parish Centre, wheelchair fencing. If interested in taking up 89 West Hill, Dartford A friendly and informative this para sport please contact us on 01474 group is a support group for people with any 871484 or alternatively look at our website www. life affecting health issues from loneliness and nagfencing.eu isolation to life limiting conditions. - call Julie On 07775875585 ERITH YOUTH RUGBY JUST FOR GROWN UPS GROUP Sunday 10:45-12:00, Sussex Road Erith. Ages We are a small friendly group who meet at 4-16 welcome the Meeting Place in the Orchards Shopping Centre on the first Tuesday of the month. Join us any time between 11am and 1pm for a social LITTLE TIGERS - KARATE FOR 3, 4 & 5 YEAR OLDS chat, coffee and biscuits or a fun quiz. For more Sundays 10:15-10:45 at Swanscombe Leisure information contact mikeansell.dt@hotmail. Centre. co.uk Call Saj on 07903 513104 20S 30S DARTFORD BEXLEYHEATH SURROUNDING AREAS SOCIAL GROUP more DARTFORD GYMNASTICS information visit: Celebrating 50years. www.meetup.com/20s-30s-DartfordBexleyheath-surrounding-areas-social-group/ Based in Heath Lane, we are a friendly club with super equipment, great coaches and high DARTFORD U3A (UNIVERSITY OF standards. We do lots of competitions and we THE THIRD AGE) do not close through the holidays! meets on the first Tuesday of every month (exVisit our website www.dartfordgymnastics. cept August) at St Anselm’s Church Hall, West co.uk for full details or contact Linda on 01322 Hill, Dartford at 2pm, For information about 409312 or email dartfordgymclub@yahoo. meetings and interest groups visit co.uk u3asites.org.uk/dartford/welcome www.dartfordbusinessdirectory.co.uk

LEARN KARATE Learn karate with Yamato Damashii – for adults & children Every Wednesday evening at the Leigh Academy & every Saturday morning at Becket Sport Centre, first lesson free. For more info, visit www.ydma.club or find us on Facebook, search for Yamato Damashii Martial Arts. YOGA WITH EMMA Monday evenings 7pm to 8pm at Becket Sports Centre in Dartford and Wednesday mornings 9.30am to 10.30am at Europa Gymnastics Centre in Dartford/Crayford Please see www.samadhi-yoga.co.uk for more information or email Emma at emma@samadhi-yoga.co.uk“ KENT EXILES AMERICAN FOOTBALL CLUB www.kentexiles.co.uk. Coach Martin - 07944 730634. All ages from 7 years to adult welcome ENERGY FITNESS AND NUTRITION I run group fitness classes as well as 1-1 and semi private personal training sessions in Darenth at Dimples Day Nursery DA2 7HT. ENERGY Fitness & Nutrition: we offer a wide variety of group classes such as strength & conditioning, boot camps, Boxercise, mum and baby classes, inside and outside classes with great equipment and suitable for all abilities. The website is www.energyfitnut.co.uk FAIRFIELD (DARTFORD) WI We meet on the second Tuesday of the month at Dartford Girls Grammar School at 7.30pm. Activities include guest speakers, theatre visits and monthly lunches. New members welcome. For more information please call Judith on 01322 278703 DARTFORD JU JITSU CLUB Mondays 7-8pm for 7-16s at the Dartford Girls Grammar, Shepherds Lane Dartford DA1 2NT in the Dance Studio. We have an adult class 8-10pm too. We’ve been running for 20 years, building confidence, teaching self-defence, hardening the target, developing skills and always welcome new members. 52

HOP LIKE IT’S HOT A fun (different) circuit based workout with space hoppers that challenges core stabilty, balance and strength. It is suitable for all levels and abilities. Classes are held every Wednesday evening at the stone pavilion starting at 8:15 until 9:00 costing £5 per person. HAWLEY AND SUTTON AT HONE ACTIVE RETIREMENT ASSOCIATION is a friendly group of retired and semi-retired men and women over 55. We have a monthly meeting on the second Thursday at Sutton at Hone Scout Hut at 1.30pm. Associated activities include petanque, keep fit, short mat bowls, country walks and ten pin bowling. Come along to a meeting [£2 entrance] or call Carol on 07912 564710. You will receive a warm welcome. WAR GAMES AND MODEL CLUB Based in Erith we have a wide number of members from across SE London and Kent. A great place to come and have a game, make, paint and hobby! Or, if you prefer, come grab a cup of tea and chat about all things hobby and some things not! For more info visit - https:// emperors10th.wixsite.com/home DARTFORD PARKRUN Dartford parkrun is a free to enter 5k run every Saturday morning starting by the Dartford harriers track in Central Park at 9am. All participants get a time a position emailed and texted after the event. To register go to www.parkrun.org.uk. Remember to bring your printed Barcode. Every Sunday Morning in the Park there is a Junior parkrun over 2k. FOOTSCRAY MEADOW PARKRUN A new Parkrun event with parking at Crazy Barn SEEDS CYCLING CLUB DARTFORD Seeds is a long-established cycling Club in Dartford and we share our headquarters at Hesketh with Dartford Cricket Club. We cater for most abilities and have a social ride most Saturday mornings. For info on joining us please visit our website www.seedscycling.co.uk DARTFORD AND WHITE OAK TRIATHLON CLUB We are the local British Triathlon Federation Club covering Bexley, Dartford and Swanley. We offer coached swimming sessions 3 times per week at White oak pool in Swanley and Fairfield pool in Dartford. Our members compete in many local Triathlons plus many members are training towards Iron Man distance. We also have our own Triathlon in June every year which has been running since 1989. If you are

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interested in joining us then please visit our website http://www.dartfordandwhiteoaktri.co.uk DARTFORD ROAD RUNNERS Dartford Road Runners are based at Princes Park Stadium and are one of the biggest road running clubs in Kent. We currently have about 200 members of all abilities including a beginners group. DRR teams compete in the Kent League, the Assembly League and the Kent Fitness League. To see what we offer and how to join us please visit our website – anyone is welcome to join us with all abilities. http://dartfordroadrunners.co.uk/node/440

Cyclopark, Gravesend - Dawn & Brian New runners are always welcome, and you can contact Brian if you would like more information; see contact details and e-mail link on Our Group page. YOGA & MEDITATION CLASSES Every Tuesday from 6-7pm &Thursday from 10.30am to 12.00pm at Peppercorns, 3 Orchard Street, Dartford, Kent, DA1 2DF. For more information please call The Hope Group on 07580 615206.

DARTFORD BOCCIA CLUB Boccia is a Paralympic Sport similar to Pétanque or Boules. It is played in a seated DARTFORD HARRIERS ATHLETICS CLUB position therefore ideal for disabled or non-disDartford Harriers is among the leading athletics abled persons to play together. clubs in Kent, with a history stretching back to the 1920′s, making it one of the oldest clubs in We meet once a fortnight on a Saturday the country. If you are interested in seeing how between 5-6pm. Cost is £2.50 per player we can help you advance your Athletics then per session. There is FREE parking on site. All please visit our website welcome. http://www.dartfordharriersac.co.uk CENTRAL PARK ATHLETICS CLUB We are situated in Dartford’s outstanding Central Park and can provide access to a state of the art running track (re-laid in 2015) and the full range of track and field facilities for just £4.50 per session (we offer discounted annual memberships). Refreshments and changing facilities are also available. For no extra charge, we hold coached track sessions on Wednesday evenings for runners of all abilities. This is a tough but very popular way to increase your stamina and running technique, and you’ll be in the company of qualified coaches and some of the friendliest runners around. For more information please visit our website centralparkathletics.co.uk Every Sunday 10-11am – Child friendly coached sessions – Come and join the CPA Swifts – As a fledgling club we would like to give children of all ages and abilities the chance to experience training and coaching within a club environment – come and be part of the team Free first session with this advert SO LET’S GO RUNNING (SLGR) SLGR is a local running club with structured training sessions designed to improve runners speed and stamina. There are currently four runs available with more starting soon; see below for more details. The Run leaders for each group are as follows; Dartford Cricket Club, Dartford - Dawn & Brian

DARTFORD & DISTRICT PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY. We are a long-established camera club meeting fortnightly at Stone Pavilion. We have an exciting programme of speakers, competitions, practical evenings and would welcome new members with or without photographic experience to our friendly meetings. You can attend several meetings as a guest before taking out membership which enables you to become a fully-fledged member and enter competitions. Our website is dartphoto. org.uk. We have a spacious hall which enables us to meet “socially distanced” in the present environment. We hope to meet you soon. DARTFORD MUSIC SCHOOL Want to learn to play or sing? For all ages and abilities, we have something for you. We offer a variety of music learning activities based at The Mick Jagger Centre including Individual Instrumental Lessons, group sessions with Red Rooster, Dartford Youth Choir and DMS Orchestra! What’s stopping you? Webpage: www.themickjaggercentre.com/dartford-music-school.html Email: DMS@themickjaggercentre.com Follow us: Twitter @Dartford_Music Instagram @ dartfordmusicschool

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Rock Painting in Dartford. 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 located in the Orchard Shopping Centre. By Maria Kingsford 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.

ST ALBAN’S AND ST EDMUNDS CHURCH GROUPS St Alban’s Church - Stepping Stones’ Toddler Group @ St Alban’s Church, St Alban’s Road, Dartford DA1 3FT Wednesday’s from 8:30am – 11:30am. - Community Café Coffee Morning @ St Alban’s Church (Tuesdas) , St Alban’s Road, Dartford DA1 1FT, 10am – 12noon. Drinks, sausage or bacon sarnies, scones, fruit, friends and chat. - Knit & Natter @ St Alban’s Church, St Alban’s Road, Dartford DA1 1FT 10:00am – 11:30am, on the first and third Saturdays of the month. Come and knit, learn to crochet (or teach someone else), have a coffee and a lot of nattering! St Edmund’ Church - Kindness and Wellbeing Group @ St Edmund’s Church, St Edmund’s Road, Temple Hill, Dartford DA1 5ND - Tuesday’s from 9:30am – 11:30am. Make new friends, chat over a cuppa, mindfulness and well being resources and support. - Café @ St Edmund’s Church, St Edmund’s Road, Temple Hill, Dartford DA1 5ND Thursdays from 10am – 12noon - Over 60’s Club @ St Edmund’s Church, St Edmund’s Road, Temple Hill, Dartford DA1 5ND Lunch at 12:30pm (£5pp must be booked in advance). Raffles and bingo from 1pm, prizes galore. 54

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CLAREMONT DECORATIVE SERVICES • ALL TYPES OF INTERNAL AND EXTERNAL DECORATING • AROUND THE HOUSE MAINTENANCE JOBS • FREE ESTIMATES • REFERENCES AVAILABLE • RELIABLE, INEXPENSIVE AND QUALITY WORK BY LOCAL TRADESMEN CAN WE HELP YOU?

Please call Mike or John on: Tel 01322 406439 / 01322 525708 Mobile: 07742 085333 Email: mikeperry5001@aol.com Partners: Mike Perry and John Petherick

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ADVERTISERS INDEX

DIRECTORY OF LOCAL BUSINESSES ADVERTISING IN DARTFORD LIVING ACCOUNTS, FINANCE AND LEGAL K & A Chartered Surveyors Blue Rocket Accounting Summit Wealth Downton and Ali Associates

PRINTERS 4 Darenth Print and Design 22 49 RESTAURANTS, CAFES, FOOD OUTLETS 59 Efes

HOME IMPROVEMENTS The Double Glazing Repair Man Avant Garde Garden Design Tudor Living - Electrician Steve Cook- Double Glazing Claremont Decorative Services

4 6 32 33 55

RELIGIOUS SERVICES Crossways Community Church St Albans & St Edmunds Church Groups COUNCIL SERVICES Dartford Borough Council MEMBERS OF PARLIAMENT Gareth Johnson

FARM SHOPS H & M Quality Foods Stanhill Farm Wilmington Village Market

EDUCATION Baby/Toddler Sense My Bluewater Tutor 22 KTB Kids 54 CHARITABLE ORGANISATIONS Valley Park Radio 30 New Life Christian Community Foodbank

CARE PROVIDERS Anchor Foster Care Home Instead

32 LEISURE/ENTERTAINMENT FC Academy Bexley Park Comedy 17 Orchard Theatre 19 YDMA Karate Paul Page Academy Be Bop a Lula 6 TRAVEL Harden Holidays 60 RETAIL The Bed Post 2 Bradleys Jewellers 34 Craft Frames

HEALTH AND WELLBEING Slimming World Ruby Lox- Hairdressing

12 39

BUSINESS SERVICES The HR Dept

ESTATE/LETTING AGENTS Fox Estates Wisdom Estates FLORISTS Dartford Florist GARAGES/VEHICLE SERVICES Orchard Garage

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6 42 7 19 32 32 33 45 23 27

11 13 10 23 23 37 20 18 55 39

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USEFUL NUMBERSS LOCAL AND NATIONAL

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

KEY NUMBERS Police 01622 690690 NON EMERGENCY ONLY Fire Safety Advice & FREE Home Fire Safety Check 0800 169 1125 Dartford Borough Council 01322 343434 Gas Leaks (24 hour) 0800 111 999 EDF Energy Networks Emergencies/ Powercuts Helpline 105 Flooding 03459881180 Highways Kent 03000 41 41 41 Social Services 03000 41 41 41 Water Burst 0800 820 999 (Southern) 0800 714614 (Thames)

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

Lane. 6.30-8.00 Juniors, 8.00-10.00 Seniors www. dartfordjujitsu.co.uk

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

LOCAL MP Gareth Johnson 020 7219 7047

‘Play & pay’, 9 hole, par 3 golf course on Dartford Football Club’s Princes Park- Contact: 01322 299990 www.dartfordfc.com

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

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

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.

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

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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:

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MAKE SURE YOUR BUSINESS IS PROTECTED

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Corporate Call Brian Downton, Dartford’s Protection Champion for: Business Protection – We can help to ensure your company is protected should a key stakeholder, such as a director, suffer a serious illness or die. Key Person Protection – This protects your business in the event of the loss of a person who makes a significant contribution towards the profitability of your company.

Corporate Private Medical Insurance – Protecting your employees provides them and you with the peace of mind that comes with knowing they will have access to the care they need if they are unwell.

Business Insurance – Whether you would like to insure your premises or stock, need employer’s liability, public liability or indemnity cover, we can help.

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Dartford Living July 22

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WE ARE TEMPLE HILL - EVENTS 2022 - PAGES 8