IS MY CHILD READY FOR SCHOOL?

By Nicola Hibon-Jackson “One of the things we’re always asked by parents is how to know if their child is ready to start primary school. Many parents worry about how to prepare young children but, as early years educational professionals, we reassure them that there’s lots of ways to support young children’s emotional development and inspire their ability to learn long before they turn five.”

- Louise Buckley, of KatieB Kids Nursery in Stone, Dartford says their advice is so much in demand they have decided to run a free workshop to help parents with children aged between 3-5 years be ready to start school confidently.

Louise says, “By gently preparing children from an early age, parents can be sure that when the big day comes their child is emotionally ready and is equipped with all the skills needed to be able to really enjoy school and to succeed academically and beyond. ” The first free workshop is on Monday 6 June and will outline what parents can do support their child’s learning at home through everyday life.

To register for the Free workshop see www. katiebkids.co.uk or call 01322 277 200

KatieB Kids - ‘Ready for School’ Checklist:

• Good self esteem, resilience and self regulation • Social skills such as empathy, cooperation, respect and kindness • Self awareness, self care skills and bladder control • Good listening and communication skills • A strong physical core and spatial awareness • The ability to be inquisitive, recognise risks, problem solve, speak up and challenge what is not right • The building blocks of literacy

DARENT VALLEY

This Spring, the Darent Valley Landscape Partnership Scheme is bringing you the Festival of the Landscape, an event-packed celebration of everything that the Darent Valley has to offer! From May to July 2022 everyone is invited to join in with a programme of events, workshops and activities across the Darent Valley.

From exploring Tudor and Roman finds with our Community Archaeologist, touring the ancient trees painted by Samuel Palmer, guided walks with Kent Wildlife Trust, wildlife activities for families and walk and draw workshops for adults to largescale outdoor puppetry performances at Otford and Dartford with 'Puppets with Guts' and much more - there will be something for everyone to enjoy.

And for some half term fun, why not come al ong to Enchanted Woodland Scavenger Hunt on 30th May? Later in June we have a Family Orienteering event at Darent Country Park on 11th June and Family Forest Club at Ecology Island on 16th June. Other activities include Mindfulness Walk around Central Park and numerous other events throughout the valley.

Dartford residents might like to come along to the Great Big Platinum Jubilee Party, where they can meet Gnomus, a giant puppet, who will be putting on a show at Central Park on Sunday 29th May - and must be seen to be believed! At this event, young people aged 12+ and adults can also take part in free arts-based landscape workshops, enabling participants to discover their local landscape’s colour palette. Run by professional artists, they will guide you through how to ReFRAME your environment and create your very own Darent Valley picture frame. Workshops last approximately 1 hour. Families might like to join Dartford Arts Network’s drop-in Art & Nature activities in the park.

Jake Daniels’ decision to come out as the UK’s only openly gay active male professional footballer will “help break down barriers” in society, said the Duke of Cambridge.

The young Blackpool forward (17) spoke of the “relief” he has felt in publicly revealing his sexuality in May. His announcement was praised by Boris Johnson, England captain Harry Kane and several charity groups.

“Football should be a game for everyone,” said Prince William. The FA president added: “What Jake has done takes courage and will hopefully help break down barriers that have no place in our society. Gary Lineker believes Daniels’ announcement “shouldn’t be significant” and that football should have “passed this watershed moment a long time ago”.

Jake has stated he has drawn inspiration from, among others, Olympic diver Tom Daley and Adelaide United player Josh Cavallo - who came out last October and is the only current openly gay top-flight male professional footballer in the world.

Manchester City staged a stunning late comeback with three goals in five minutes to beat Aston Villa and win the Premier League as their title chances looked to be slipping away. Manchester City needed victory to secure their fourth title in five seasons but were facing the prospect of ending the season empty-handed as goals either side of the interval from Matty Cash and Philippe Coutinho put Villa 2-0 ahead and in control. It looked as if Villa manager Steven Gerrard might help his former club Liverpool secure the title - until City turned the game on its head and send the fans into near hysteria.

City did need those three points as Liverpool beat Wolverhampton Wanderers - with City boss Guardiola overcome with emotion and breaking down in tears at the final whistle. Down south, Arsenal missed out on Champions League qualification for a sixth successive season despite a comfortable victory over Everton on the final day. The Gunners needed to beat Frank Lampard's side and hope Mikel Arteta’s side did all they could to try to finish in the top four for the first time since 2016 by winning 5-1, but the damage had been done in their two previous games - defeats at north London rivals Spurs and resurgent Newcastle. The visiting supporters were in good spirits until Arsenal took a three-goal lead, but having celebrated their top-flight survival 3 days before, their partying was probably done. However, they still found the energy to celebrate, when they heard Manchester City had taken a 3-2 lead against Aston Villa, denying Liverpool the title…footie fans!!

Upcoming events in June include: Jun 16-19 Golf, US Open, The Country Club Brookline

Jun 27 - Jul 10 Tennis, Wimbledon

Jun 2 – 27 Cricket, England vs New Zealand 3 test series

MINOR AILMENTS PART 1

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.

I hope this article might help you to manage some minor conditions yourself and save you the hassle of trying to get an appointment.

Vomiting and diarrhoea Often this is due to a viral gastroenteritis and will usually resolve in a few days. The advice is the same if you have either symptom or both – the most important thing is to stay hydrated by drinking lots of fluids such as water of squash. If you feel sick, take small sips at a time. If you have a bottle fed or breast fed baby, continue to give feeds but you may want to give smaller amounts and more often. Do not water down formula. Vomiting will usually last 1-2 days and diarrhoea up to 1 week. My opinion is that diarrhoea and vomiting is your bodies way of protecting itself and therefore we should let nature run it’s course unless there are problems such as dehydration or electrolyte imbalance.

Speak to your pharmacist for advice on oral rehydration sachets and to discuss medication that can stop diarrhoea for adults.

Speak to 111 or your GP if you are worried about a baby aged under 1 year, if your child is having less wet nappies than usual or if there are signs of dehydration in an adult or child, if you or your child is being sick and unable to keep any fluids down or if this is not settling. If the vomit is yellow/ green, bloody or looks like coffee grounds or if the diarrhoea is bloody it is important that you seek medical advice. Verrucas and warts These common harmless lumps on skin are caused through a virus. They will usually go away on their own, but this can take months or even years. You don’t need to treat them, but treatment may help them clear up quicker. There is often no treatment we can offer in GP practices. Most practices do not have liquid nitrogen, which can be used to freeze them. Instead, your pharmacist can advise on treatments that you can buy.

Always speak to a GP if you have a lesion on your skin that you are worried about and you are not sure what it is.

Threadworms Threadworms are tiny worms that look like threads of cotton in your poo. They are common in children and can cause an itchy bottom, particularly at night. You can buy treatment for this from your pharmacist. You should treat all members of the family, even if they don’t have symptoms. Intertrigo/jock itch/sweat rash This is a red-reddish brown rash that appears in the groin creases, under the breasts and under the arm – in fact anywhere where there is a fold of skin where there is moisture and friction. It is caused through a fungal infection, much like thrush, and can be very sore. It is more common in people who are overweight and diabetic. You can buy an antifungal cream with some steroid from your pharmacist to treat this. To prevent it wash thoroughly and pat dry, wear a good supporting cotton bra if under the breasts or other absorbent clothing and try and keep the areas dry.

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.

Rock Painting in Dartford.

ocal people from Dartford Painted Rocks on Facebook have been busy this month painting nd hiding them around town. The rocks can also be exchanged at Stephen Oliver: Studio and allery located in the Orchard Shopping Centre.

ere are some great photos of their painted rocks.

By Maria Kingsford

Local people from ‘Dartford painted rocks’ on Facebook have been busy this month painting and hiding them around the town. The rocks can be exchanged at Stephen Oliver: Studio and Gallery located at the Orchards Shopping Centre .

Here are some of the photos of their latest painted rocks.

FULLY OPEN FOR DINING IN

Our convenient location in the town centre means you’re never too far from savouring one of our chef’s specials or platters, made with the freshest ingredients and cooked to absolute perfection. We’ve been cooking up a storm since 1974

SUNDAY TO WEDNESDAY 12PM TO 10PM THURSDAY TO SATURDAY 12PM TO 11PM

WWW.EFESDARTFORD.CO.UK | (01322) 471458

COLOUR DASH IS BACK

By Abby Brindley

It’s back! Join We Are Beams at the Colour Dash on Sunday 3rd July! You can walk, run or jog around the beautiful Swanley Park during this family friendly rainbow coloured 5k run. Wear a white T-shirt on the day or wear fancy dress if you prefer! Tackle the course on your own or with family and friends as we throw coloured powder at you from each 1km station. The course is super family friendly and wheelchair accessible with a shorter 2.5K route too but please be prepared to get messy! All proceeds from the event will go towards supporting disabled children and their families. Andrew Ray, Community Fundraiser explains how events like these are so important to the charity, “After 2 years without being able to hold fundraising events, we are so excited to be back at Swanley Park for the Colour Dash! All the donations will help to provide holiday play schemes, day trips and respite care within our Dragons Retreat for children that would otherwise not be provided with these opportunities” We Are Beams is a local charity based in Hextable. The disabled children and young people who access We Are Beams services will typically have one or multiple learning difficulties, complex health needs, physical or sensory impairment, challenging behaviour, Autism or severe ADHD.

Each year We Are Beams needs to raise £1.6 million in order to provide care to over 450 families in Kent.

Event Information Sunday 3rd July 9.30am Swanley Park, New Barn Rd, Swanley BR8 7PW Entry Fees Adult: £17 Child (12-17 years old): £12 Child (11 years old and under): £5.50 Family (2 adults and 2 children under 11): £43 Suggested sponsorship £50 To enter please visit www.wearebeams.org. uk/events-challenges/

In this month’s article we look at a new luxury version of a couple of cars and new ways to cut costs whilst on the road.

2022 Range Rover Sport SUV – this is the new Range Rover Sport luxury SUV gets the longest range of any plug-in hybrid. It blends both luxury and sportiness, offering all the comfort with a meaner look and a more agile driving style. Mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) versions are available from the outset, and a fully electric version – expected to have a range of more than 250 miles – is due in 2024. Crowning the engine line-up at launch is the 523bhp twin-turbocharged V8 (named the P530), which can cover the 0-62mph sprint in just 4.5sec. The plug-in hybrids can charge up to 80% of capacity in less than an hour using a 50kW charging point, while a full charge using a typical 7.5kW wallbox will take around five hours. Available from September 2022 prices will start from £79,125 and can reach up to £250,000.

2022 Mercedes-AMG C43 – the new version has a smaller, more efficient engine and the new Mercedes-AMG C43 performance car has more power than ever. A new turbocharged 2.0 litre engine replaces a 3.0 litre with a mild hybrid engine producing 17bhp more than its predecessor. Buyers will also be able to specify an AMG Real Performance Sound Package, which enhances the exhaust note by pumping it through the stereo speakers via a synthesiser. Design details to mark the C43 out from lesser C-Class models include four chromed tailpipes, beefier side sills and a front grille with vertical slats instead of a single horizontal bar. Prices are not announced but estimated to be £55,000 when its available in late 2022.

Cut your driving costs– with the cost of living and fuel and energy prices soaring, here are tips to help you drive more efficiently and greener.

Acceleration – having a gentle right foot is one of the most effective ways to reduce your fuel bills and cut your emissions.

Braking – harsh braking is one of the most inefficient actions of driving and even for electric motors slow, long braking will help cut costs.

Distractions - while distractions like your phone, infotainment system or passengers may not directly impact your driving efficiency, they all pose very real dangers when on the road. This can lead to erratic driving and decrease fuel efficiency.

UPCOMING SHOWS AT THE ORCHARD THEATRE

Did you ever imagine back then that it would make such a big impact? “I didn’t even know enough to dream beyond the final construction of the piece. Writing a musical is by far the hardest thing I have ever done. It’s so complicated, with so many revisions, and it’s easy to lose sight of the finish line. So I was just so happy and proud that we got off the runway, everything else was a bonus.”

Could you tell us about the main character, Jenna? “Jenna’s an extraordinary pie-maker who lives in a small town in southern Indiana. She’s in an abusive marriage and gets pregnant, but doesn’t want the baby. Over the course of the show we see her encounter an unlikely new relationship, and also develop her friendships within the diner and the community. She goes on a soul-searching journey and learns to love herself. She’s a really interesting, complicated character that a lot of people can relate to.”

Treat yourself to a slice of five-star musical pie” (The Times) as Chelsea Halfpenny (9 to 5, BBC’s Casualty, ITV’s Emmerdale) stars in the hit musical comedy Waitress as Jenna, with Wendy Mae Brown (The Book of Dust, Ghost The Musical) playing Becky, Evelyn Hoskins (Waitress, Spring Awakening) as Dawn and David Hunter (Waitress, Once, Kinky Boots) reprising his role as Dr Pomatter.

Ahead of the opening of Waitress, writer Sara Bareilles answered some questions.

How would you describe the show, for the uninitiated? “It’s got something for everyone. I think there’s a preconception that it’s a very female-driven show, which to some extent it is, but there are also lots of great male characters. It’s universally enjoyable, very funny but also very moving and relatable.” Waitress opens at the Orchard Theatre from Mon 4 - Sat 9 July 2022. He’s back! It’s been a busy few years for Jason Manford since his last smash-hit stand up show but fans of his Absolute Radio show will know this nationally acclaimed comedian hasn’t changed a bit. ‘Like Me’ is Jason’s latest comic offering set to hit the road, and is sure to be ‘expert observational comedy’ (The Guardian) mixed with ‘comic gold’ (Mail on Sunday).

Jason said: “After the fun we had on my last tour ‘Muddle Class’, I’m excited to get back on the road with my new stand up show, ‘Like Me’. In these trying times it’s always important to be able to get away for a couple of hours and exercise the

old chuckle muscle! So I’m coming to a venue near you in 2021 so we can have a good laugh together. See you then.” ‘First & Last’ (BBC One), ‘The Masked Singer’ (ITV1), ‘What Would Your Kid Do?’ (ITV1), ‘Olivier Awards’ (ITV1), ‘Scarborough’ (BBC One), ‘8 out of 10 Cats’ (Channel 4), ‘The Nightly Show’ (ITV1), ‘Sunday Night at the Palladium’ (ITV1), ‘Live at the Apollo’ (BBC One), ‘Have I Got News For You’, (BBC One), QI (BBC Two) and ‘The Royal Variety Performance’ (ITV1) have all helped establish Jason as a nationally known comic. Coming to the Orchard Theatre on Wed 13 July 2022.

‘The Greatest Rock & Roll Band In The World’ is a bold statement but Showaddywaddy has lived up to that title for the last 4 decades!

Formed in the 1970s in Leicester from several local bands, they have sold more than 20 million records and have toured all corners of the World extensively.

Their live show is dynamic and uplifting featuring all of their biggest hits, many of which reached number one in the pop charts of Europe. ‘Under The Moon of Love’, ‘Three Steps to Heaven’, ‘Hey Rock & Roll’, ‘When’, ‘Blue Moon’, ‘Pretty Little Angel Eyes’ and many, many more. So come and join Igglepiggle, Upsy Daisy, Makka Pakka and friends are back in their fun-filled live show Igglepiggle’s Busy Day! Join Igglepiggle as he looks for his friends in the Night Garden by following their funny sounds until he finds them all!

You’ll see all your favourite characters beautifully brought to life with full-size costumes, magical puppets, and enchanting music. The show lasts just under an hour and your little ones will be amazed when they see a very special visit from the amazing flying Pinky Ponk.

Now in its 13th year, In the Night Garden Live is one of the UK’s favourite family events. Over 1.2 million people have seen it so far and it gets 4.8 out of 5 stars based on 13,610 parents’ reviews. There are other shows for young children, but as The Independent wrote, “there’s nothing quite like In the Night Garden Live.” Pip-pip, onk-onk!

Come visit In the Night Garden from Wed 27 - Thu 28 July 2022.

COMPETITION

WIN TWOTICKETS FOR THE SOUND OF SPRINGSTEEN.

Sun 24 July 2022 at 7:30pm

With a passion for the work of “The Boss”, the 8 piece tribute The Sound Of Springsteen brings their years of live performances and recording to rock you with Bruce Springsteen’s greatest hits and deep cuts. With songs like, Born In The USA, Glory Days, Streets of Philadelphia and many more, this is a night of passion for Springsteen, and we are back and bigger and better.

The Sound of Springsteen is a tribute show to which artist? 1. Bruce Springsteen 2. Chris Springsteen 3. Keith Springsteen

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

GINGERNUT BISCUITS

By Debbie Dickinson Surprisingly easy to make and delicious – add as much Ground Ginger as you dare!

What you need:

50g Unsalted Butter – straight from the fridge 275g Plain Flour 1-2 tsp Ground Ginger 1 tsp Bicarbonate of Soda 115g Caster Sugar 115g Light Brown Sugar 2 tbsp Golden Syrup 1 Large Egg

For the Filling (optional) 1-2 stalks of Rhubarb 50g Unsalted Butter 50g Icing Sugar What to do: Preheat the oven to 160°C (Fan) Cut the Butter into tiny cubes and place in a large bowl with the Plain Flour. Rub together – using just your fingertips – until the mix resembles fine breadcrumbs. Add the Caster Sugar, Brown Sugar, Ground Ginger and Bicarbonate of Soda and stir until combined. Pour in the Golden Syrup and the Egg. Mix until everything comes together in a dough. Pinch small amounts from the dough and roll into a ‘cherry tomato’ sized ball. Place onto baking paper on a baking sheet. Using a fork, flatten the balls slightly. Leave space between each biscuit as they will spread a bit. Bake in the oven for 12-13 minutes until they start to crisp on top. Leave to cool on the tray. For the filling. (Completely optional as the biscuits are delicious on their own!) Chop the Rhubarb into slices. Place in a saucepan with a little water and bring to a boil. Watching all the time so it doesn’t burn. Reduce the heat to a very gentle simmer and heat until the Rhubarb has broken down and is completely cooked. If you wish, you could add a little sugar to sweeten the mix! Cream the Butter and Icing Sugar together until pale and creamy. Sandwich 2 biscuits together by spreading a little buttercream on one and adding a small spoonful of your Rhubarb Compote. Top with a second biscuit. Enjoy!!

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!

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 ASSOCIATIONmeets on various date at Birchwood Country Club For more information contact Alexon 01322 228169. DARTFORD OSTOMY GROUP SUPPORT (DOGS) meet every third Wednesday in the month at St Anselm’s Parish Centre, West Hill, Dartford DA1 2HJ from 1.00 pm to 3.00 pm. It is for anyone who has an Ileostomy, Colostomy, Urostomy, IBS and pouch, their carers, family and friends. ALL DIRECTIONS is a community learning organisation for adults and young people aged 16+ with physical, learning and mental health difficulties. For more information, attend a taster session or visit our community lunch club, contact Caroline on 01322 837172 or 07570 347612

AGE UK, CRAYFORD LIBRARY POP IN PARLOUR COFFEE MORNINGevery Friday morning 10.30 - 12.30 Tea, Coffee, Biscuits and a chat - Just £1

BEXLEY AND DARTFORD BRANCH PARKINSONS UK For people with Parkinsons and their carers. Dartford: 2nd Wednesday of each month, Mick Jagger Centre, 7 -9pm. Information support workers available, guest speakers and quizzes. Contact Wendy Leach. Tel: 02083065973 THE WELLBEING LINK The Wellbeing Link meets on Friday mornings from 10-1pm in the St. Anselm’s Parish Centre, 89 West Hill, Dartford A friendly and informative group is a support group for people with any life affecting health issues from loneliness and isolation to life limiting conditions. - call Julie On 07775875585

JUST FOR GROWN UPS GROUP We are a small friendly group who meet at 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 chat, coffee and biscuits or a fun quiz. For more information contact mikeansell.dt@hotmail. co.uk

20S 30S DARTFORD BEXLEYHEATH SURROUNDING AREAS SOCIAL GROUP more information visit: www.meetup.com/20s-30s-DartfordBexleyheath-surrounding-areas-social-group/ DARTFORD U3A (UNIVERSITY OF THE THIRD AGE) meets on the first Tuesday of every month (except August) at St Anselm’s Church Hall, West Hill, Dartford at 2pm, For information about meetings and interest groups visit u3asites.org.uk/dartford/welcome 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 as a side line we raise money for a local charity. If you are missing the contact with other business men since you retired, why not come and join us on the last Thursday of every month. For more details contact Phil Burt on 01322 274541 or look at our website www. waprobus.com

THE NATIONAL WOMEN’S REGISTER The National Women’s Register (NWR) is a national organisation that meets in the Dartford area. The NWR is a discussion group for ‘lively minded women’. Contact can be made via www.nwr.org.uk or call 01603406767 HEALTHCARE RETIREMENT GROUP Dartford & Gravesham Branch. Meets the first Wednesday of every month at the Masonic Hall, West Hill, Dartford from 1012pm.Activities include guest speakers, outings, lunches, holidays and quizzes. For more information contact Marion on 01322 402967

WHEELCHAIR EPEE FENCING Wheelchair epee fencing in Dartford and Gravesham, we are delighted to announce that New Ash Green Epee club, can now introduce wheelchair fencing. If interested in taking up this para sport please contact us on 01474 871484 or alternatively look at our website www. nagfencing.eu

ERITH YOUTH RUGBY Sunday 10:45-12:00, Sussex Road Erith. Ages 4-16 welcome

LITTLE TIGERS - KARATE FOR 3, 4 & 5 YEAR OLDS Sundays 10:15-10:45 at Swanscombe Leisure Centre. Call Saj on 07903 513104

DARTFORD GYMNASTICS Celebrating 50years. Based in Heath Lane, we are a friendly club with super equipment, great coaches and high standards. We do lots of competitions and we do not close through the holidays! Visit our website www.dartfordgymnastics. co.uk for full details or contact Linda on 01322 409312 or email dartfordgymclub@yahoo. 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 “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

HARTLEY SWIMCLUB AT WHITE OAK POOL, SWANLEY We are a friendly group of adults who meet for a social swim every Thursday at 9pm. We’re looking for new members. Why not give us a try? Contact Diane on 01689 871846 or join us one Thursday.

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 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.

THE HIGHLY STRUNG BADMINTON CLUB, Friendly club seeking new members. Abilities mixed. Would suit players with some prior experience. Thursdays at 7.45-9.45pm, Dartford Girls’ Grammar School, DA1 2NT For further information please email: highlystrungbc@gmail.com

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 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

DARTFORD HARRIERS ATHLETICS CLUB Dartford Harriers is among the leading athletics clubs in Kent, with a history stretching back to the 1920′s, making it one of the oldest clubs in the country. If you are interested in seeing how we can help you advance your Athletics then please visit our website 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. 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 position therefore ideal for disabled or non-disabled persons to play together.

We meet once a fortnight on a Saturday between 5-6pm. Cost is £2.50 per player per session. There is FREE parking on site. All welcome.

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

DARTFORD CHORAL SOCIETY CELEBRATES A CENTURY OF SONG

BY PAT EVERINGTON

It’s hard to believe but we’ve been making music since 1919. Over the years we have had various conductors and our membership has fluctuated - but we are still here! More members are always welcome and indeed needed if we are to continue into the future. So please come along to discover the wonderful world of choral singing. We rehearse on Monday evenings at the Mick Jagger Centre, Shepherds Lane, Dartford, starting at 7.30pm. Just turn up and you will receive a very warm welcome. If you would like more information before taking the plunge, please view our website at www.dartfordchoral. org.uk or contact our Secretary, Paul Grimmer (email: secretary@dartfordchoral.org.uk) or the Chairman, Pat Everington (email: chairman@ dartfordchoral.org.uk Tel: 01322 220124). The Society’s inaugural concert took place in the Spring of 1920 and centenary celebrations were originally planned for April 2020 - foiled, of course, by the advent of Covid19. However, we are determined to mark the occasion - albeit two years on - with a special concert on Saturday, 11 June at St Michael’s Church, Church Hill, Wilmington, starting at 7.30pm. The programme includes Brahm’s Requiem and various other shorter works. Civic dignitaries will be in attendance together with past members, patrons and our loyal followers. Free interval refreshments include wine and celebratory cake. Ticket prices on the door are £10 (£8 concessions). Please join us on this special occasion, thus swelling the audience and lending your support to the oldest choir in Dartford. We need you!

St Alban’s Church ST ALBAN’S AND ST EDMUNDS CHURCH GROUPS

- 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.

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

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DIRECTORY OF LOCAL BUSINESSES ADVERTISING IN DARTFORD LIVING

ACCOUNTS, FINANCE AND LEGAL Blue Rocket Accounting Summit Wealth Downton and Ali Associates

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

RELIGIOUS SERVICES Crossways Community Church

COUNCIL SERVICES Dartford Borough Council

MEMBERS OF PARLIAMENT Gareth Johnson

ESTATE/LETTING AGENTS Fox Estates Wisdom Estates

FLORISTS Dartford Florist

GARAGES/VEHICLE SERVICES Orchard Garage

CARE PROVIDERS Anchor Foster Care Home Instead

HEALTH AND WELLBEING Slimming World Ruby Lox- Hairdressing

BUSINESS SERVICES The HR Department Nucleus 22 49 59 PICTURE FRAMING Craft Frames

PRINTERS Darenth Print and Design

4 6 32 33 55 RESTAURANTS, CAFES, FOOD OUTLETS Efes

EDUCATION My Bluewater Tutor Katie B Kids

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30 CHARITABLE ORGANISATIONS Valley Park Radio New Life Christian Community Foodbank Ellenor

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17 4 LEISURE/ENTERTAINMENT Bexley Park Comedy Orchard Theatre YDMA Karate Paul Page Golf Academy FC Academy

6 TRAVEL Harden Holidays

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16 45 LOCAL PRODUCE H & M Quality Foods Stanhill Farm Wilmington Village Market

RETAIL The Bed Post Bradleys Jewellers

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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)

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 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 Park- Contact: 01322 299990 www.dartfordfc.com 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. dartfordjujitsu.co.uk Dartford Sharks Basketball Club Tim Dickson - 07855 692527.

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

Corporate

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Downton & Ali Associates

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