Dartford Living March 2019 by Dartford Living

FREE March 2019 - Issue 153

By the community, for the community

INSIDE THE MAGAZINE

TAKE THE BROKEN PIECES AND BUILD SOMETHING NEW - Page 6 IS IT REALLY THAT EASY TO OVERCOME LOSS? - Page 9 LOCAL BOCCIA CLUB - Pages 18-19

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rl e be slim fo with

Slimming World

MONDAYS ** New Consultant starting 25th February ** Church Centre, 112 Swanscombe Street, Swanscombe, Kent DA10 0JZ 7:30pm Heather 07957 083150 VCD Sports Club, Old Road Crayford, DA1 4DN 9:30am, 11:30am, 5:30pm and 7:30pm Sue 07507 599691

St.John The Evangelist Church Parkhill Road Bexley DA5 1HX 5.30pm and 7.30pm Adam 07730 405313

British Legion Hall Devon Road, South Darenth, DA4 9AA 9:30am, 5:30pm and 7:30pm June 07957 902767

WEDNESDAYS VCD Sports Club, Old Road Crayford, DA1 4DN 10:00am, 5:30pm and 7:30pm Liz 07900 213548

Fleetdown Community Centre Swaledale Road, Dartford, Kent, DA2 6JZ 3:30pm, 5:30pm and 7:30pm Paula 07891 424401

Glentworth Ex Service Club 154 Lowfield Street, Dartford, Kent, DA1 1JB 9:30am Gillian 07957 135737

Oakfield Primary Academy Oakfield Lane Dartford Kent DA1 2SW 7.30pm Kate 07590 995948 ***New Venue***

The Howard Venue (formerly South East Dance Studios) 39 Egerton Avenue, Hextable, BR8 7LG 5:30pm and 7:30pm Caroline 07776 181413

TUESDAYS Greenhithe & Swanscombe British Legion Club London Road, Greenhithe, DA9 9EJ 10:00 am Paula 07891 424401 Glentworth Ex Service Club 154 Lowfield Street, Dartford, Kent, DA1 1JB 5:30pm and 7:30pm Gillian 07957 135737

Wilmington Memorial Hall High Road Wilmington DA2 7DW 5.30pm Jayne 07557979435

Temple Hill Community Centre Temple Hill Square, Dartford, DA1 5HY 3.30pm, 5:30pm, 7:30pm Jo 07800 797030 THURSDAYS The Howard Venue (formerly South East Dance Studios) 39 Egerton Avenue, Hextable, BR8 7LG 9:30am Caroline 07776 181413

slimmingworld.co.uk 0344 897 8000

Temple Hill Community Centre Temple Hill Square, Dartford, DA1 5HY 09:30am Jo 07800 797030 St Anselmâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Parish Centre 89 West Hill, Dartford, Kent, DA1 2HJ 5:00pm and 7:00pm Gillian 07957 135737 Greenhithe & Swanscombe British Legion Club London Road, Greenhithe, DA9 9EJ 5:30pm and 7:30pm Paula 07891 424401 FRIDAYS Lesley Close Bourne Road , Bexley DA5 1LX 9am Del 07975 541082 SATURDAYS Oakfield Primary Academy Oakfield Lane Dartford Kent DA1 SW 8am and 10am Sarah 07739 027161 ***New Venue and Times*** Christchurch Centre Kingswood Avenue Swanley BR8 8AN 8am and 10am Jayne 07557 979435

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WELCOME TO THE LATEST ISSUE OF

DARTFORD LIVING BY THE COMMUNITY, FOR THE COMMUNITY Dear Readers,

Welcome to the March magazine. As usual it’s jam packed with lots of local information and local businesses. Please support as many as you can - use them or lose them! In case you weren’t aware, we run Dartford Living alongside volunteer members of the local community FOR the local community. It’s the only independently run magazine serving the local area with information, fun, good news and positive local stories! Please get in touch if you would like to write an article for the magazine. If writing is not for you then perhaps you could volunteer to deliver 100 or so magazines to your local roads - you will guarantee your copy of the magazine and get a little exercise as well! If you don’t always receive a copy directly through your door, you can pick up a copy from various drop off points including Dartford FC, local libraries, Fairfield Leisure Centre, The Orchard Theatre, The Priory and Orchard Shopping Centres, Stephen Oliver Art Gallery, health centres and local Nationwide and Barclays branches. Additionally, if you email editor@dartfordliving.com we will add you to our e-newsletter and you will join 7,000 others who receive a copy of the magazine by email once a month. Until next time, Vijay - Editor, Dartford Living (and the rest of the fantastic Dartford Living volunteer team)

CONTENTS 6 8 9 12 14-15 18-19 24 25 26-27 29 32-33 40 42 43 43 44 45 48-55 56-57 58

Take the broken pieces and build something new Heather is set to share Slimming Success Is it really that easy to overcome loss? The Kentones Lullingstone Castle and the World Garden Local Boccia Club Life Under the Stairs Recipe Chocolate Brownies Travel Spotlight Party like it is 1977 Stanhill Farm Sports News Fitness Dartford Painted Rocks Then and Now Theatre Roundup Car News Where to Go Locally Advertisers Index Useful Numbers

18-19 25 Check out our website for even more local news and articles

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TAKE THE BROKEN PIECES AND BUILD SOMETHING NEW by Amanda O’Brien

When a life changing event turns your world upside down, even the simplest of tasks can become all too consuming. Initially you find yourself spending every waking hour just processing what’s happened then eventually, one way or another, you’ll start to think about moving forward and that’s when the ‘what next?’ sets in. My life turned upside down in March 2017 when we lost our identical twin daughters at almost 5 months pregnant. Since then, I’ve discovered pregnancy loss is something that needs to be talked about and the more I’ve spoken to others about it, the more I’ve come to realise that there are many other women out there who have a story to tell or an experience to share. Beyond the loss of a pregnancy, the hardest part of the whole experience is trying to find yourself again, work out who you are and what you should do next. Before I go any further let me introduce myself, I’m Amanda, I’m 34 years old and in 2016 I found out I was pregnant with identical twins – how did we know they were identical? Because the twins were sharing a placenta, this is known as a monochoronic pregnancy and with that came a 10% risk of a condition known as Twin to Twin Transfusion Syndrome (TTTS) occurring. With the odds being so small, we knew there was a greater chance that the twins would be ok but we were wrong. TTTS took the twins from us. After we’d delivered them, attended the post-mortem and said goodbye at their funeral two months later, we were then left to rebuild the life that had crumbled around us - but what were we supposed to do next?

collection of babygrows of which I donate a percentage of the profits. Furthermore, I have teamed up with Kath from Parker and Me UK and together we will be hosting an Easter themed family fundraising day at the Mick Jagger Centre in Dartford on Saturday 30th March. There will be Easter egg hunts running throughout the day, a pop up market showcasing over 20 local small shops, a soft play space, a crafty corner and numerous food stalls – as well as a few other surprises throughout the day! So when life tries to turn your world upside down, I guess you have a choice, you can either let it leave you in the crumbled mess it created or you can take the broken pieces and build something new with it. Our ‘what next’ arrived on the 29th October 2018 when the twins younger brother, Alfie, was born and one day, when he’s old enough, he’ll know all about his sisters. If you’re free on Saturday 30th March, it would be great to see you there.

Y A D R SATU I started reading blogs online about pregnancy loss and how people had gone about rebuilding their lives. 7 months after our loss, I began to I realise I had a choice - I could either continue to spiral into the emotional black hole I had created for myself or I could take our experience and do something with it. I chose the latter.

I s t a r te d w r i t i n g m y o w n b l o g ( w w w. homeofthelittlesomething.co.uk) and it felt like therapy. I researched TTTS and discovered a lack of information available to expectant parents, a lack of understanding about the long term outcomes for survivors of TTTS and then I discovered the Tamba TTTS Appeal.

h c r a m h t 0 3

I knew I had to do something to support the Appeal, so I founded The Little Something Company and created a 6

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come and meet the easter bunny at our EASTER EGGSTRAVAGANSA AND JOIN OUR EGG HUNTS AT 11am, 12pm and 1pm

EGGCELLENT RAFFLE! COME AND HEAR THE MESSAGE OF JESUS AND TRANSFORM YOUR LIFE TODAY

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TO BE DONATED TO THE CHARITIE

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£2 on the door S

CHILDREN’S FUN AREA WITH ARTS AND CRAFTS SHOP AMAZING SMALL SHOPS UNDER ONE ROOF

Goody bags for the first 30 people

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HEATHER IS SET TO SHARE HER SLIMMING SUCCESS

by Slimming World

A Slimmer who has transformed her life by losing weight is using her success to shape a whole new career helping other people change their lives and achieve their weight loss dreams too.

plan encourages you to eat lots of tasty, filling foods like pasta, rice, potatoes, lean meat and fish. You are never hungry and no foods are banned so there’s no deprivation. I couldn’t believe I’d found a way to lose weight without starving myself. Slimming World isn’t just about changing Heather Hesmer joined her local Slimming World group what you eat. Becoming more active is important too. in Longfield 3 months ago and dropped from 13 stone 11lbs to 12 stone 4lbs. Our Body Magic programme takes the worry out of activity by showing people how they can build activity into Now Heather has trained as a Consultant for Slimming their daily routine without having to take up traditional World and members at the Swanscombe group in Kent are forms of exercise like going to the gym or running. getting ready to welcome Heather as their new Consultant Everything counts from walking to gardening to washing when she takes over the group on 25th February 2019. the car. I love playing football and going swimming with my grandchildren to get my Body Magic! The dog also Latest government figures reveal that around one in benefits from long walks. four adults are obese and it is estimated that by 2034 this will increase to one in three. 63% of Swanscombe ‘s As a Consultant, it’s my role to create that warm population is now overweight or obese and Heather says supportive atmosphere to get people sharing their ideas her new role has never been more important. and experiences to help others. She says ‘obesity is becoming such a huge issue across the UK’. When I first joined Slimming World as a member, I never dreamed that I would end up helping other people to lose weight but now I just can’t wait to get started. After losing my weight and completing my training, it’s a privilege for me to be able to pass on the experience, in sight and understanding that helped me so that I can give my members the support they need to get to target.

Heather’s Slimming World group will be held at Swanscombe Church Centre every Monday at 7.30pm from 25th February. For more information or to join Heather’s group either pop along on 25th February or call her on 07957083150.

Group support is really the most important thing. It all starts with feeling that you’re not alone. I couldn’t have lost my weight without the weekly help, encouragement and understanding of my own Consultant and group. As someone who has lost weight myself I know the challenges people can face, which is why, along with the group I will be there to support every to their chosen target weight. Sharing recipes and tips and working together as a group to overcome challenges and celebrate success is so important to a successful journey. That’s why at my Slimming World group, there’ll be tons of support, encouragement and fun. Like many slimmer’s, I had tried to lose weight many times before by following numerous diets but they were never sustainable because I’d always get tired of restricting what I ate. I thought I was destined to struggle with my weight for the rest of my life but when I came to Slimming World it was different I never felt like I was on a diet. The eating 8

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Is it really that easy to overcome a loss? by Charlene Douglas

‘You need to move on now’, ‘In time you will get over it’, your own hair may make the pain go away. ‘Just keep busy’... all common phrases we’ve all heard when a ‘helpful’ loved one is trying to ‘help’ us to feel better about our loss. The truth is oftentimes they just don’t know what else to say. It may be a death or a relationship breakdown. We may feel alone, angry, sad, depressed, guilty, frustrated, irritable etc. All wrapped up in a ball of intense confusion. Everyone grieves differently, and it is perfectly fine to grieve in a way that feels natural and authentic to you. Different theorists suggest that there are between 5 to 7 stages of grief that we go through. Whilst some may believe we go through these stages in a linear motion, others simply recognise that the complexity of grief means that we can jump from one stage to another over a period of time.

Anger & bargaining; as you lash out at others or yourself for things that have or haven’t taken place, hoping that if you just ‘think positively’ the feelings of despair may disappear, making the pain bearable.

Depression / loneliness; just when you think that you These stages are as follows: are coping well and life is back to normal, you begin to Shock and denial; an inability and unwillingness to accept realise that the loved one really has gone. You are faced the truth as it can feel too painful. with new memories that don’t include your lost loved one and feel that life has forced you to ‘move on’, even if you Pain & guilt; often excruciating and almost unbearable, didn’t want to. By now your social circle are expecting as you wish you would have said or done something you to have ‘moved on’, but you’re unsure how to get differently. As if this would have kept your loved one with past these sad and lonely feelings. you. Sometimes we try to take this pain away by taking drugs, alcohol or by simply keeping busy. Perhaps the And then the hopeful stages emerge; the pressing forward, tears just won’t stop, and you feel as if even pulling out reconstruction and acceptance . These stages allow you to be at peace, able to enjoy your present life and to plan for a future life without your lost loved one – often never ever forgetting them. Everyone’s grieving experience is unique to them. An ex-partner or a late loved one can create depressive feelings in us, many years after losing them. It’s alright to experience these feelings, burying them works only for a while. Similar to filling a rubbish bag to the brim, a time will come when the bag begins to split and the contents of the bag become exposed. Still My Soul Counselling offers individual (and couple) counselling. Don’t suffer in silence. Remember talking to a counsellor can help! For more information see page 21 www.dartfordlivinglive.co.uk - www.dartfordliving.com - www.dartfordbusinessdirectory.co.uk

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THE KENTONES by John Sollitt

Bromley Barbershop Harmony Club (a.k.a The KENTONES) was formed in 1975, and has been going strong ever since. The Club is one of 60 registered with the British Association of Barbershop Singers (affectionately known as BABS) and is the largest in the South East.

charities (over £12,000 in the last 5 years, of which over £3,000 was for the Chartwell Cancer Trust) which adds a real sense of satisfaction to performing.

We are always keen to recruit new members. We are currently offering the opportunity to come along to It currently comprises some 40 members in a wide age our Club to any men who feel this might be just what range, who all share the enjoyment of singing, as well they’ve been looking for and also to listen to Barbershop as the genuine camaraderie engendered by belonging singing – a great chance to try a great new experience to such a group. and make new friends. The Barbershop style consists of four-part a cappella This could be your first step towards a taste of “showbiz”. (i.e. unaccompanied) singing, the melody usually sung In a few months, you could be performing on stage smartly by the lead section, accompanied by the three harmony attired in a natty uniform and impressing your relatives! parts – tenor, baritone and bass. Don’t be put off if you can’t read music – only a few of The genre’s precise origins are somewhat obscure and our current members can, and you will be provided with subject to various theories. (There are even references teach CD’s, and coached by experts. As long as you can to “barber singing” in Samuel Pepys’ diaries.) However, sing in tune we can do the rest. it is, generally acknowledged that the style is rooted in American music culture and was revived in the late We meet 7.30 pm every Thursday at St Paul’s Church 1930’s, thanks to one Owen C Cash, a tax lawyer (!) from Hall, Crofton Road, Orpington, BR6 8JE. Tulsa, Oklahoma, although it has now spread far beyond the USA and is now popular in many European countries If interested, give me a call for more information or just and in Australasia. turn up and mention that you had read this article in the Dartford Living magazine. The KENTONES perform for both public and private events at a wide variety of venues, as well as in competition John on 0797 0737 343 or e-mail : js10br@aol.com (principally at the annual BABS Convention), and were particularly proud to win the highly prestigious title of Website : www.thekentones.co.uk Top Choir Kent in Canterbury in 2016. Registered Charity No. 1094386 The Club also raises considerable sums for various

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LULLINGSTONE CASTLE AND THE WORLD GARDEN 2019 EVENTS

by Jill Cox

Set within 120 acres of beautiful Kent countryside, Lullingstone Castle is one of England’s oldest family estates, dating back to the time of Domesday. An historic family mansion frequented by Henry VIII and Queen Anne. It is also home to the UK’s first ever ‘World Garden of Plants’, containing some 8,000 plant species, cultivars and hybrids planted in their respective countries of origin, the vision of modern-day plant hunter Tom Hart Dyke. - Easter Egg Quiz – 20th, 21st & 22nd April -11am – 5pm - Medieval Weekend –26th & 27th May - 11am - 5pm - The Food Fest 2019 – 1st & 2nd June – (Saturday - 11am - 9pm) & Sunday (11am- 6pm)* - National Garden Scheme - 16th June – 12 noon - 5pm* - Classics at the Castle – 29th June - 11am – 5pm* - Lullingstone Quilt & Craft Festival – 19,20, 21st July – 11am – 5pm - Plant Hunters Weekend – 24th, 25th & 26th August 11am - 5pm - Mexican Celebration Weekend presents ‘CactusWorld Live – a succulent adventure’ – 21st & 22nd September – 11am - 5pm - Halloween & Pumpkin Carving Event – 27th October Plant Hunters Weekend – Saturday 24, Sunday 25, Bank - 12 noon - 7pm Holiday Monday 26 August - 11am - 5pm

*NEW * The Food Fest 2019 - Saturday 1 June & Sunday 2 June – 11am – 9/11am - 6pm Enjoy the Tastes of Kent, true to its name, The Food Fest 2019 brings foodies together and showcases all the best of Kent has to offer. Visitors to The Food Fest will be able to enjoy award winning fine wines, ciders, craft beers, vintage food trucks, stalls and excellent food and produce from our farmers market. The festival is brought to you by local Kent residents, Jay Scott, Clairey Hearnden and The Food Fest team. In addition to incredible food, the music line up is going to be off the charts, along with the “Little Dudes Corner” which will include a little chefs interactive cooking, vintage steam funfair, street art, face painting, festival disco dome, arts and crafts and lots more fun for the children. A memorable Summer event at Lullingstone Castle for all the family to enjoy. For more details and to book visit www.thefoodfest.com 14

Celebrating the lives of some of Britain’s most intrepid plant hunters, Tom and friends in Victorian dress lead FREE guided tour of the World Garden at 1.30 – 3.30pm - join at any time! Second Chance Animal Rescue (SCAR) will have some special animals and reptile guests joining us during our garden tour. SCAR expert handlers during the tour will showcase different animals to see amongst the continents to truly bring the tour alive. Visitors are offered a unique glimpse into the past to experience an authentic plant hunter’s expedition camp, complete with plant presses, roaring fire, porters and canvas tents.

*NEW* Mexican Celebration Weekend presents ‘CactusWorld Live – a succulent adventure’ Saturday 21 & Sunday 22 September – 11am – 5pm We are delighted for the 2019 Mexican Celebration Weekend to team up with the British Cactus & Succulent Society for CactusWorld LIVE – A succulent adventure!

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Our services include: -check-ups -scale and polish -teeth whitening -teeth straightening(Invisalign) -fillings -bridges,crowns, dentures and etc. -dental implants -anti-wrinkle treatment (Botox) 0% Finance Available tel. 01322 464569 address: 30 Overy Street, Dartford DA1 1AH email: info@smileavenue.co.uk web: www.smileavenue.co.uk follow us on Facebook Tom will be joined by fellow horticulturalist, broadcaster and patron Ann Swithinbank, as well as houseplant writer and blogger Jane Perrone, who will be podcasting her popular ‘On the Ledge’ show from the event. There will also be talks, demonstrations, workshops and surgeries for everyone to learn more about these amazing cactus beauties in our dedicated marquee. Darren Everest Dahlias returns for his third successful year to showcase in the manor house his stunning Dahlias, ready to inspire and offer a riot of colour.

There will be a cactus show with stunning specimens, plants for sale from leading nurseries, a variety of stalls and children’s attractions, as well as authentic Mexican food and music from our very own Mariachi band! Tom Hart Dyke is the patron of the BCSS society, he will lead two guided tours of the World Garden including Mexico & our cacti hot houses at 12.30pm and 2.30pm.

2019 Events – Selected events only - Admission charge £10 per adult and children under 15 FREE entry. *IMPORTANT NOTE - The Food Fest 2019, Classics at the Castle & The National Garden Scheme admission charges are different so please see separate details on our website. Lullingstone Castle & World Garden Eynsford, Kent, DA4 0JA Telephone: 01322 862114 www.lullingstonecastle.co.uk Facebook – ‘The World Garden’ Twitter - @Lullingstone

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LOCAL BOCCIA PLAYERS SHOW HOW YOU CAN COMPETE FROM A SEAT By sports writer Henry Clark @HenryWAClark

This week I visited a local group that is opening doors to competitive sport for people with a range of disabilities in Dartford. The Dartford Boccia Club plays a game that is a relatively recent addition to the Paralympics and best described as a mix between Petanques and Bowls but performed whilst seated. Much work has been done in recent years to make sure sport really is for all yet many disabled people still feel doors to sport are being closed quicker than they are being opened. One group that is working hard to open some of those doors again to allow disabled people in Dartford to reap the rewards of sport is Dartford Boccia Club.

I was warmly welcomed by all the members who threw me straight in the deep end and into a match. It’s a tense, tactical game that relies on precision and guile – much harder than it looks! The standard of play on show was really impressive, even amongst some of the younger players. I was interested to get to know some of the people that make the club what it is today. Efthalia Rolls, whose 14 year-old daughter Gabby competes as part of ‘The Jaggers’, spoke of the opportunities it has given her daughter who is wheelchair-bound as a sufferer of cerebral palsy.

“For Gabby it’s been brilliant. She hasn’t been able to join in any sports at school so it’s the outside interest she’s developed and one where she’s made new friends and competed as part of a team which she’s never been able to do before. The skills she’s learnt here like turn-taking, sharing and communication in a fun environment are ones she might not otherwise have developed.” On my visit I witnessed first-hand how sufferers of a wide Inclusivity is a feature the club prides itself on and one of range of disabilities are being provided a safe and happy the older playing members, Claire Keys, spoke candidly space to play sport and build key social skills they may of the lifeline it provided her after a severe motorbike otherwise find difficult to develop. accident left the mum of two wheelchair dependent. The nature of Boccia means it can be played by people suffering from almost any disability (in fact Dartford Boccia Club also welcomes able-bodied players to their sessions) from the most severe neurological conditions to those suffering with mental health issues.

The club, based at Fairfield Leisure Centre, is just five years old and is overseen by Judy Maskell whose teenage son Ben has a form of autism, epilepsy and sun flower syndrome. She felt there wasn’t anything on offer that suited her son and so set about creating the group.

For Claire, who was introduced to the sport during her rehabilitation process, finding a group on her doorstep like this provided a good distraction to focus on life now rather than what it was like before, something she describes as a “difficult process”.

From there the club has continued to flourish and are now at a stage where they play competitively against other sides under the name of ‘The Jaggers’, in tribute to the famous son of Dartford Sir Mick Jagger.

“It really is a sport for everyone. We have those that suffer from mental health problems and those that suffer physically like myself. I absolutely love coming here every fortnight.” They have benefitted from the generosity of Dartford Borough Council, particularly the work of council leader Jeremy Kite, who came along to the session to mark the unveiling of the new club kit which features the council’s logo. “Dartford is lucky to have its own Boccia club run by great people,” he said. “It was a real pleasure to spend time with them and it’s a privilege to know and support clubs like this.” For Judy the club has already grown beyond her wildest dreams. “As the club grows, we want to continue to build up our competitive team (currently the smallest competing in the Kent leagues). We’re still in the baby stages but with the support of the council and other

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Saturday evenings, 5-6pm, at Fairfield Leisure centre and cost just £2.50 per person. More information can be found on their website https://www.dartfordboccia. co.uk or on their Facebook page. By Henry Clark (@HenryWAClark) www.youngsportsjourno.wordpress.com

local residents who want to get involved hopefully we can continue to develop our wonderful, friendly club”. In the short time I spent with the club I witnessed firsthand just how influential the sport of Boccia has been on members of the club. It is a sport that truly caters for all and I can think of few other opportunities for both ablebodied and disabled people of all ages to develop social and physical skills together. Why not give Boccia a go? Sessions run fortnightly on

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LIFE UNDER THE STAIRS by Local Resident, Jane Stevenson OLD FRIENDS

many years before social media came into being. Need to meet up? Phone and discuss those details. Need to What constitutes an Old Friend? Literally is it someone talk something through? Find a quiet corner in the pub of your own age you’ve known for years? Someone who and spill it out. has always been there no matter what? My social media friends list is small, made up of people I have met over This is something that so many people nowadays will never time, but more importantly, some of these friendships experience. Indeed, I wonder if the term ‘old friends’ will be go back almost fifty years. re-interpreted. The online Urban Dictionary description reads “How’s it going, old friend? We haven’t spoke in a I ask because since the beginning of the New Year I have minute.” I find this description sad, rather than funny, been in contact with a couple of people who float in and but in today’s breathless, frantic world, it is probably how out of my life at somewhat infrequent intervals, yet they many would explain a friendship. are what I class as Old Friends. Another definition reads “... a person who has been one’s We haven’t consistently stayed in touch; sometimes we friend for a long time” suggesting age has little to do don’t meet up for years, and one of them doesn’t’ ‘do’ social with friendship . media (and lives abroad), yet it makes no difference at all. My favourite description, and one that may well appeal That particular gentleman has just come over from to you as well, is author Robert Lynn Asprin’s words Australia on business. He’s here for three weeks. We’ve “When old friends get together, everything else fades met up at our house, proudly shown each other photos to insignificance.” That for me sums up Old Friends. of spouses, kids and the other scenes of a long friendship. We’ve been out for meals and last week, he and I travelled Take care All. to Bath for a gig. (OH gave his approval). We were so busy chatting about the past we missed the turning on the M25. Our memories of the daft things we did, the places and people we knew haven’t dimmed, but with hindsight and the comfort that comes with getting older, we both realise those escapades and experiences made us the people we have become. The gig in Bath was to see a band who we’ve both followed since they played at our local in South London, over 40 years ago. They have achieved international success and are followed by a faithful coterie of fans, some of whom weren’t even born when they started! We met up with them afterwards, and picked up the conversation as if we’d seen them last week. It’s an ease that comes with time. We’ve all made lives for ourselves, are comfortable with who we are and what we’ve become. We’re not in competition with each other and most of us are happily settled with spouses and partners. There’s no pressure. We can afford to enjoy these infrequent encounters. Old friends are an indicator of our peace of mind and our personal growth. These friendships were formed 24

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RECIPE -

MIXED BERRY CRUMBLE CAKE

by Debbie Dickinson

This is a lovely cake that is delicious on its own, but also amazing if served warm with ice-cream or custard. When berries are out of season you can buy them frozen - available in most supermarkets. Use a selection of berries or just choose your favourite! This recipe will serve approx. 16 people. You’ll need: 175g Butter/Margarine 175g Light Brown Sugar 3 Large Eggs 175g Self-Raising Flour 50g Plain Flour Zest and juice of 1 lemon For the topping: 300g Mixed Berries 50g Plain Flour 50g Light Brown Sugar 50g Block Butter (cubed/grated) 50g Porridge Oats What to do:

Pop the mixture into the tin and bake for approximately 1-1¼ hour. The cake is ready when a skewer, inserted into the cake, comes out dry/clean. Serve warm with lots of vanilla custard or leave to cool. Enjoy! xx

Grease and line a 7” square cake tin and preheat the oven to 160ºC (140º Fan oven and Gas mark 3) Cream the butter, then add sugar and mix until pale and creamy. As usual scrape the sides of the bowl frequently to ensure an even mix. Add each egg with a spoonful of flour until all eggs are mixed in. Add the rest of the flour and mix until combined. (Don’t forget to keep scraping those sides!) Mix in the lemon zest and juice. To make the crumble topping, pop the flour, sugar, and butter into a bowl and rub gently with your fingertips until it resembles breadcrumbs. Mix in the oats. Pour the cake mix into the tin, and top with a layer of mixed berries. Then sprinkle over the crumble topping.

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TRAVEL SPOTLIGHT

TRAVEL PROTECTION

by Tim Harden

Travel Spotlight – March 2019

becomes invaluable, these are just a few examples of the various issues where the ATOL certificate would protect you. To check if an travel agency/holiday provider holds a valid ATOL Licence you can visit the CAA website and search by name.: https://www.caa.co.uk/ATOL-protection/Checkan-ATOL

Travel broadens the mind and nurtures the soul. It should be enjoyed with a carefree spirit and an open mind. Unfortunately, the reality is not always as straight-forward and there are many pitfalls and unfortunate circumstances that can face holiday-makers. With holiday bookings for the year ahead in full swing we decided to dedicate this months’ Travel Spotlight to the different forms of travel protection that you can utilise to ensure your holiday and your money is protected. There are three main forms of protection that you should be aware of and use if you can, the CAA’s ATOL protection, trade associations like ABTA & TTA, and travel insurance. ATOL protection The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) was established in 1971 and issues Air Travel Organisers’ Licences (ATOL). It is a legal requirement for any provider offering a package holiday (flights+ accommodation) to have an ATOL license. Should the holiday provider become insolvent then the CAA will organise repatriation for any travellers stranded abroad and refund the cost of the holiday for those yet to travel. At the end of 2017 Ryanair cancelled the flights of 400,000 people. Those with separate flights and hotels then needed to book new flights, often at a much higher price. Those with their hotel and flights under the protection of an ATOL certificate had their flights rebooked at no cost to them. This is particularly relevant when flights are cancelled at the last minute due to weather or mechanical issues. Airlines can offer a full refund and their responsibility then ends, leaving you at the airport unable to reach the holiday you have paid for. Pre-booked tours, hotels, cruises, connecting flights or car hire can all be lost, potentially costing you thousands. This is again when a package 26

Trade Organisations There are a variety of trade organisations that travel organisers can become members of, and although there is no legal requirement to be a member of any, almost all travel agents are members of one or another. The largest and most well-known is of course the Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA), there is also Travel Trust Association (TTA), the Global Travel Group and others. Most provide some element of consumer protection as well as a code of conduct to ensure quality of service and arbitration is cases of dispute. Whilst the organisations represent their members, they also have a focus on consumer confidence and offer voluntary regulation of their members.

Travel Insurance Travel insurance products offer a range of protections for consumers, usually based around medical assistance whilst abroad. Other inclusions often revolve around lost luggage, delays and holiday cancellations. Each product is different, and it is advisable to seek independent advice before taking out a policy. The policy should be appropriate for the destination and type of holiday you are taking, for example certain sports will require additional coverage. The airline industry is facing a turbulent year ahead

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with fuel prices rising. Several carriers around the world have become victims of soaring oil prices and the credit squeeze in the last twelve months. Even during the writing of this article, news has broken that FlyBMI has filed for insolvency and cancelled all flights. These unsettled times may well create more casualties before the end of the year. But do not despair, this is not a reason not to book travel â&#x20AC;&#x201C; this is a reason to book your travel smartly and with full protection.

Now Aw Winn ard ing!

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PARTY LIKE IT IS 1977

by Mathew Amer

Mention the words Abigail’s Party in conversation and within seconds someone will have quoted Demis Roussos, ice and lemon or Beaujolais. Mike Leigh’s seminal comedy, first staged more than 40 years ago, is a modern classic ingrained in the collective British psyche. As a new production of the much-loved play tours the UK, we talk to director Sarah Esdaile and the cast – Jodie Prenger, Vicky Binns, Calum Callaghan, Daniel Casey and Rose Keegan – about what makes the piece so special and why it should be see on the stage.

me.” That was so liberating, to realise you don’t have to run away from that. JP: That role is just so iconic in the way it was performed and created. So much came out of improvisation. It’s hard to deliver it in a totally different way. It wouldn’t make sense to change it –you’d look like a wally. How do you feel about taking the play on tour? JP: I’m really looking forward to it. The venues I’ve been to before have all been really great experiences. I hope they keep up to the standard that they set themselves! VB: It’s always interesting to see the different reactions at each venue you go to. That’s something that makes it fresh and new each night – you get the input of the audience and their reactions. In general, the further north you get, the more vocal the reaction. That’s not to say people in the south aren’t enjoying it, it’s just that their reaction is more measured. CC: I’m London born and bred and I love London as a city, but you definitely notice when you go to a lot of the smaller cities in the UK that people have a lot more time to talk and be friendly, which is a lovely thing to experience.

How would you describe Abigail’s Party? Calum Callaghan: Essentially, it’s about three sets of neighbours coming together for what should be a nice, jolly evening. But it’s the total opposite of that because they’ve all got so much going on individually that they’re not dealing with privately. Jodie Prenger: It’s uncomfortable and deliciously dark. It’s full of that thing where you don’t really want to watch, but you can’t look away. Rose Keegan: It’s about all the primary things that we’re worried about and will always be worried about until the end of time – aspiration and hunger and thirst and confinement and hope. It’s full of these wonderful sayings and it’s very In the age of on demand entertainment, what’s special accessible. about a trip to see Abigail’s Party at the theatre? CC: I spend hours on the sofa watching Netflix, but to go to It was first performed more than 40 years ago. What makes the theatre… It’s about sharing, being in a public space and it so popular all these years later? experiencing something with other people. It’s happening Sarah Esdaile: It’s very good. I’m struck at least five to 10 right in front of you. It’s the uniqueness of the experience times a day by that! It takes place, socially and politically, at a that you and however many people you’re sitting with at that really interesting turning point in the history of this country. time get to have. It’s the same being on stage. That’s why, It’s less than a year before Thatcher came into power and no matter what level lots of actors reach, they want to come there was rise in people’s obsession with consumerism, back to the stage. You can’t get that same shared experience belongings and position. of adrenalin and joy that comes from live entertainment JP: It’s quite extraordinary that it’s got this power that has anywhere else. just been going for decades, isn’t it? DC: I think it’s the difference between CDs and live music. Vicky Binns: It’s amazing! You type “Things that happened It is the fact you are close. You can smell and you can touch. in 1977” into Google and one of the results is “Abigail’s There’s a connection and it’s different every night and you, Party premiered”, along with the massive world events that as a member of the audience, make that show something happened at that time. It hit right at the heart of that moment, different because you react in different ways and that gives but it’s still so identifiable today. It’s like being a fly on the us a different buzz each night. wall at a party that you wouldn’t want to be at. You get to be JP: There is something magical about going to the theatre. there without having to dance awkwardly or make chit chat. You’re sat amongst hundreds of people and you never know SE: Also, there’s the universality of its themes. It deals with what’s going to happen. Switching on the TV, you know what aspiration and disappointment. you’re going to get. With theatre anything can happen. Daniel Casey: Well, just look at social media – we’re being sold all these things every day. People are always aspiring for something they haven’t got. That’s still incredibly relevant. VB: The iconic character of Beverley, as well. She’s one of the main things that made it so memorable. SE: The fundamental challenge for me, as the director is, in a way, escaping from the voice of Alison Steadman, who everyone has in their heads as Beverly. I met Alison and she told me: “I was part of the process of creating that character, so I’m intrinsically in it. There’s no point trying to escape www.dartfordlivinglive.co.uk - www.dartfordliving.com - www.dartfordbusinessdirectory.co.uk

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If you are a local business make sure you sign up for our Business Directory. We have a number of different plans available to maximise your business exposure. For a limited time you can sign up for FREE listing. Just add the code DL FREE in the coupon box during check out.

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BOW ARROW GARDENING & LANDSCAPING. Gardening and Landscaping service in the Dartford, South East London, North Kent, Essex area. - Garden Design. - Garden Clearance. - Garden maintenance :all aspects. - Hedge/shrub pruning. - Deweed paths and flower beds - Lawn Maintenance and cutting. Free quotations Contact- Andy Davidson. Mobile 07815 118887 Email â&#x20AC;&#x201C; andy_davidson_1@ yahoo.co.uk A Friendly, reliable and quality service. Bespoke quotations on request.

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COMPETITION

ABIGAIL’S PARTY

Beverly and her husband Laurence are throwing a party for their newlywed neighbours, Tony and Angela. Joining them is highly strung Susan who’s been banished from the party of her teenage daughter Abigail. Welcome to 1970’s suburbia and its heady mix of free-flowing cocktails, classic disco and cheese and pineapple sticks. As tensions rise and tempers flare the sheen of respectability is torn away by the warring couples with hilarious and potentially disastrous consequences. Mike Leigh’s iconic Abigail’s Party is one of Britain’s most celebrated comedies and was described by The Guardian as ‘One of the greatest plays about the human condition ever written.’

MONDAY 1 - SATURDAY 6 APRIL 2019

To book tickets visit orchardtheatre.co.uk | Ticket Office: 01322 220000 We have teamed up with the Orchard Theatre to offer 2 tickets to the opening night (Monday 1st April) You just need to answer this question: In what decade is Angela’s Party set? a) 60’s b) 70’s c) 80’s d) 90’s

Closing date 15th March Email your answer to competition@dartfordliving.com Good luck!

RULES: 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. 6. We will only use your email address to contact you if you win. It will not be used for any marketing or promotional emails

Formally known as St Albans Flowers. Same Quality customer service and flowers. Nothings changed just the name

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Gareth Johnson, Member of Parliament for Dartford, will be available to meet with constituents on the following dates: Bluewater, DA9 9ST (4.00 pm – 7.00 pm - Appointment required) Friday 8th March Friday 5th April Friday 10th May Friday 14th June Friday 5th July Friday 13th September If you would like to meet Gareth at one of his regular appointment-based surgeries in the future, please contact him at gareth.johnson.mp@parliament.uk or telephone 020 7219 7047.

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10% off all pre-ordered flowers over £35.00 using promotional code DL10* *t&c’s apply- Excludes delivery charge. Offer ends 15th April 2019. Flowers must be ordered in advance and not chosen on the day.

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BAVâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S SPORTING COMMENT Caster Semenya has been the target of a proposed IAAF rule where female athletes, in track events from 400m up to the mile, with naturally high testosterone levels would have to race against men or change events unless they took medication to reduce it. Athletes who want to compete in those events must take medication for six months, then maintain a lower testosterone level. Olympic 800m champion Semenya, 28, is challenging athleticsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; governing body on this. As an 18-year-old, she was also asked to take a gender test but no results have officially been made public. This approach with Semenya does not seem fair given she is running with a natural ability, not using any enhancements.

Upcoming events in March include: 1-3: Athletics - European Indoor Championships, Glasgow 9: Rugby union - Six Nations, England v Italy, Twickenham 16: Rugby union - Six Nations final weekend, Italy v France, Stadio Olympico; Wales v Ireland, Principality Stadium; England v Scotland, Twickenham 16-17: Football - FA Cup quarter-finals 16: Mixed martial arts - UFC London 17: Formula 1 season starts - Australian Grand Prix, Melbourne 22: Football - Euro 2020 qualifying, England v Czech Republic, Wembley Stadium 25: Football - Euro 2020 qualifying, Montenegro v England, Podgorica City Stadium 31: Formula 1 - Bahrain Grand Prix, Sakhir

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DARTFORD BOOTCAMPS Dartford’s Health Walks Healthy Living Centre - Mondays 10.00am Darenth Country Park - Tuesdays 10.30am Greenhithe - Wednesdays 10.30am Central Park - Thursdays 11.30am Swanscombe - Fridays 10.00am Swanscombe - Sundays 9.00am • • • • •

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FITNESS MEAL PLANS - GOOD OR BAD?

By Mark Broadbent

People often ask me for meal plans, thinking it will make aren’t tailored to your specific sticking to a diet easier. For some it may, but for most, it portion sizes). Also be sure to take can actually make it seem even harder. into account any oils used for cooking. I’ve always tried to avoid giving meal plans because people tend to think that that’s exactly what they have to eat, then when a meal appears on it that they don’t like, they think “I can’t do this”, “it’s too difficult”, “this plan is impossible” or something along those lines.

Also, if you’re planning to have dessert after your meal, you need to account for this as part of that meal. If you’re going to have a high-carb pudding, then you need to reduce your cabs in the main meal. If you like a high-fat pudding, reduce the fats in your main meal. Don’t fall into the trap of planning out the perfect meal… and then Some meal plans may have been written with the intention adding a pudding after (same goes with drinks!). of the client following it to the letter but realistically, there is a very small percentage of people who can and Once you’ve worked out a few different meals/recipes will actually stick to it. tailored to your requirements, you can essentially pick and choose any of these meals, at any time of day. Meal plans should be used as suggestions or examples of how it could be done, but the exact meals don’t need I often tell clients to put together at least 3 options for to be followed so strictly. breakfast, lunch and dinner (although more is even better). Then they have options [that they like] to choose from and A good meal plan should have been written taking into never get stuck on what to eat. “Go-to” recipes/meals. account calories, protein, carbs and fats, tailored to the You only ned to work out the amounts for each meal once, individual it’s written for; follow that part of the plan, but and then just stick to the recipe. the exact meals/recipes are completely open to change. To put together your meals, you need to pick your protein So, if you get a meal plan or a recipe book from somewhere, source (meat, fish, beans, eggs etc.), then pick your carb be sure to adjust the portions to suit your needs; know source (rice, pasta, bread, potatoes etc.), and then pick that you can change any meals you don’t like for ones you some vegetables to go with these (because ideally you do, and you don’t need dozens of ingredients that you’ve should be eating veg at every meal). Fats quite often come never bought in your life to make them. hand-in-hand with your protein source, but if you need to add in some more healthy fats, then you can add nuts Follow these simple tips and you will have your very own, and seeds, butters or oils to bump up the fat content. personal meal plan of go-to recipes that you enjoy, that will help you stick to your diet plan and move towards Once you know what your protein, carbs, fats and veg are, your weight loss/gain goals. you simply need to work out how much of each you need for that meal. Using a food tracker such as MyFitnessPal If you need help with your training and/or nutrition, visit makes this quite simple (although you may have to manually www.DartfordBootcamps.com for more information on adjust the calorie and macronutrient goals if you know Nutrition Coaching and Bootcamps. them, as the default settings may not be what you need). This is the basic premise for every meal. It really can be that And follow us on Facebook and Twitter for extra tips, simple. Pick your protein. Pick your carbs. Pick your veg. advice and motivation. From there, you can cook those foods to your taste – you can use herbs and spices and different cooking methods, or follow set recipes (you just need to adjust the amounts to suit your needs rather than sticking to recipes which 42

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DARTFORD THEN AND NOW THE ORANGE TREE PUB

BY JAMES CARNEY - LOCAL RESIDENT

As an Architect I am interested in the local context of our towns, villages and cities and how these places have developed over time. Having come across some wonderful old postcards and images of our local towns and parishes on a Facebook page I thought it would be really interesting to take a photograph from exactly the same viewpoint but from our current time in history in relation to the original images from around the early 1900s. The original postcards and images are courtesy of Brian Porter.

Rock Painting in Dartford.

DARTFORD PAINTED ROCKS By Maria Kingsford 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. Here are some great photos of their painted rocks.

Local people from â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Dartford painted rocksâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; 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 Orchard Shopping Centre. Here are some of the photos of their painted rocks.

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THEATRE REVIEW

BY LIZ DYER

Last month’s theatre here in Dartford had something for everyone. There was music from The Band, celebrating the hits of Take That; magic in The Worst Witch, based on the much-loved children’s books; comedy from Benidorm Live, a new stage version of the popular TV show; and dance from the ever-brilliant Moscow City Ballet in Swan Lake. But if you think we’ve done well in February, just wait and see what’s coming up in March…

baby changing facilities, the little ones have plenty to keep them entertained while Mum and Dad relax and have a laugh. This is a once a month event, so if you miss it in March, don’t worry - it’ll be back in April.

And there’s more for kids this month, as Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s Room on the Broom touches down in Dartford (25th-26th). Perfect for kids aged 3 and above, this Olivier-nominated show tells the story of Witch The big news this month is Calendar Girls (5th-16th), and her cat, as they battle a hungry dragon in a musical the musical by Gary Barlow and Tim Firth based on the adaptation of the classic picture book. 2003 movie, which was in turn inspired by a remarkable true story. The show was a huge hit when it opened in the If none of that tickles your fancy (or even if it does), check West End and has been enjoying an equally successful out the Orchard website for the month’s full listings. Hear tour, which now makes its way to Dartford for an extended from adventurer Ben Fogle (17th), get health and diet tips run, featuring Fern Britton, Denise Welch and Ruth Madoc from Dr Michael Mosley (19th), and enjoy the music of among a stellar cast. With Mother’s Day coming up, not one but two great bands with ProtoStereo (29th), the there’s never been a better time to book your tickets UK’s only double tribute to Muse and The Killers. And if for this feel-good show. all that isn’t exciting enough, there’s another chance to see Cirque Berserk (20th-24th) who are back to wow us Speaking of mums (and dads), the Orchard also plays once again with their breathtaking stunts. host this month (11th) to Bring Your Own Baby Comedy, a brilliant initiative that invites parents to come along Whatever you see at the theatre this month, enjoy! and enjoy some hilarious comedy with no need for a babysitter. With soft flooring, toys, buggy parking and

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CAR NEWS MARCH 2019

By Dhiren Ganesh

In this month’s article feature new models in 2019 and interior and boot space, with load capacity set to increase 2020 taking place across many European manufacturers. over the outgoing model’s 280-litres. It’s also likely that Vauxhall will remove the old Corsa’s three-door body style, as all prototypes seen have been five-door. The new corsa should also be lighter to make it more more economical. Further features include a set of glare-free LED Matrix headlights. The new Corsa’s engine range will probably downsize from a 1.6 to a 1.5-litre capacity, offering power outputs ranging from around 75bhp to 120bhp. What’s more, there will be an electric version of the car, called the eCorsa, in short order, with which Vauxhall is looking to offer a 250-mile range and competitive pricing. Expected to be avalable in late 2019 prices could start at around £13,500. 2019 BMW 1 Series – This is the new BMW 1 Series with the biggest change the switch from rear to front-wheel drive, which is said to make it lighter as well as improving space inside for passengers and luggage. The rear doors are expected to be larger, allowing for easier entry and exit, while a longer overhang at the rear means a bigger boot is certain. Inside, the new 1 Series is likely to feature a digital instrument display and the latest version of BMW’s excellent iDrive infotainment system. It will be able to support hybrid and fully electric power sources as well as conventional engines, with 1.5 litre and 2.0 litre diesel and 2.0 litre petrol at launch. There will be a hot hatch and an electric plug-in hybrid available beyond 2020. Prices should start from around £23,500 and be available from 2020 Skoda Kamiq – This is the new Skoda Kamiq small September 2019. SUV which is positioned higher up to better place it in the driver’s field of vision. It will be a rival to the Nissan Juke and will be the third and smallest model in Skoda’s SUV line. It is set to be officially revealed at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2019 with more information available after that time. At the front, split headlights sit either side of Skoda’s familiar grille. LED daytime running lights will be included on higher-spec models, while this blue model features a panoramic sunroof. It is expected to have a choice of engines also in other VW group cars such as the 1.0-litre petrol, 1.6-litre diesel. It is also expected to 2019 Vauxhall Corsa - the new Corsa will see an increase be available from 2020. in size and longer wheelbase which should unlock more www.dartfordlivinglive.co.uk - www.dartfordliving.com - www.dartfordbusinessdirectory.co.uk

MONEY ADVICE

by CAP

Four things to give up this Lent – that don’t include food

Are you going to give something up for Lent this year? Perhaps you’ll go for a popular choice like chocolate or alcohol, or attempt the vegan diet everyone seems to be talking about? Or maybe you’re reading this, rolling your eyes and thinking, ‘I can’t think of anything worse!’ There are definitely great health benefits to cutting out certain foods (provided we don’t pack it in after three days, of course), but what if we could do more with Lent? What if we could use it to make small changes to benefit our mental health, our relationships and the world around us? We’ve come up with a few ideas to get you thinking. 1. Social media You know the feeling – you look at the lives of those around you and they seem so much happier, more interesting, more fun than your own. That would be thanks to the culture of comparison going on in our society at the moment, social media being one of the worst contributors. After all, isn’t what we post usually snapshots of the happiest, most interesting and most fun parts of our lives? How many people hop on Instagram to tell all their followers about their average day where nothing much out of the ordinary happened? This Lent, have a rest from social media. You don’t have to go cold turkey and delete all your accounts, but something as easy as removing the apps on your phone could have a positive impact on your mental health. 2. Plastic waste Chances are you’ve heard about the plastic problem shaking our planet right now. TV documentaries such as Blue Planet and Drowning in Plastic have done great work in raising awareness of the damage it’s doing, but there’s much more to be done. This Lent, how about committing to recycle more? See your local council’s website for information on what you can recycle at the kerbside and check out terracycle.co.uk for trickier materials like crisp packets, coffee machine pods and pet food sachets. Even better, make it your goal to significantly reduce your own plastic waste. The WWF has some great tips, which can be found at wwf. org.uk/updates/ten-tips-reduce-your-plastic-footprint.

3. Negative thoughts Imagine you have a friend who constantly belittles you. At every opportunity they tell you you’re useless, ugly, a failure. After a while, you’d start to believe what they’re saying, wouldn’t you? Now imagine the friend is your own mind and it’s your own thoughts putting you down. We often underestimate the power of what we tell ourselves, but it affects us just as deeply as any external criticism, if not more. Why not set reminders on your phone with notes of encouragement? They’ll pop up now and again and reassure you that you’re doing a great job. Spend time with people who build you up. Celebrate your successes, no matter how small. These things may take time to fully have an effect, but the six weeks of Lent are a great place to start. 4. Self(ish) care Self-care is important (see the last point), but one of the best methods is in fact caring for and helping others. It’s scientifically proven to improve our mental health because it triggers the release of endorphins in our brain, the effect of which has been compared to morphine, helping to reduce physical and emotional pain and boost our mood. Lent is an ideal opportunity to start giving more to the people around us – and it doesn’t need to take a huge amount of effort. Ask an elderly neighbour if there’s anything you can do to help, pick up a friend’s kids on the school run to give them a morning off, or just offer a listening ear to someone who needs a friend. Christians Against Poverty (CAP) is a UK charity with over 600 services across the country delivering debt counselling, money management, job clubs, life skills groups and support for people breaking addictions. Visit capuk.org to find out more.

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The Brent Playgroup meet Monday to Friday 9.15am to 12.15pm Term time only. For enquiries please contact: Mobile: 07989073866 Tel 01322 271738 (between 8 and 12:30) email: thebrentplaygroup@gmail.com or call in at any time. Registered for Free for Two Children The Brent Methodist Church Hall PostCode DA1 1XF

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WHERE TO GO LOCALLY Parent and Toddler Groups - Term Time Only

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

Toddler Music & Rhyme Sessions at Dartford Libraries - Monday Friday Thursday Story Time Fleetdown - Tuesday Greenhithe - Thursday - Thursday Longfield Summerhouse - Tuesday Sutton-at-Hone -Monday. Temple Hill - Thursday Dartford

10:30am - 11am 2:15pm – 2:45pm 10:30pm -11:00am 10:30am -11am 2.15pm – 2.45pm 10:45am -11:15am 10:30am – 11am 2pm – 2:30pm 10.30am -11am

Come along and join in the fun! Term time only For more information please call 03000 41 31 31 48

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WHERE TO GO LOCALLY 078 755 68296 for more details and current THE NATIONAL WOMEN’S REGISTER dates of our events and meetings The National Women’s Register (NWR) is CARE & a national organisation that meets in the THE WELLBEING LINK Dartford area. The NWR is a discussion SUPPORT The Wellbeing Link meets on Friday group for ‘lively minded women’. Contact mornings from 10-1pm in the St. Anselm’s can be made via www.nwr.org.uk or call Parish Centre, 89 West Hill, Dartford A 01603406767 and ask about the Dartford THE NORTH WEST KENT BRANCH friendly and informative group - call Julie group. OF THE MOTOR NEURONE DISEASE On 07775875585 ASSOCIATION meets on various date HEALTHCARE RETIREMENT GROUP at Brichwood Country Club For more Dartford & Gravesham Branch. information contact Alexon 01322 228169. Meets the first Wednesday of every month at the Masonic Hall, West Hill, Dartford from DARTFORD OSTOMY GROUP SUPPORT 10-12pm.Activities include guest speakers, SOCIAL GROUPS (DOGS) meet every third Wednesday in outings, lunches, holidays and quizzes. For the month at St Anselm’s Parish Centre, more information contact West Hill, Dartford DA1 2HJ from 1.00 Marion on 01322 402967 pm to 3.00 pm. It is for anyone who has an JUST FOR GROWN UPS GROUP Ileostomy, Colostomy, Urostomy, IBS and We are a small friendly group who meet at OVER 55’S CLUB - We meet every pouch, their carers, family and friends. the Meeting Place in the Orchards Shopping Wednesday 2pm to 4.30pm at Tree Centre on the first Tuesday of the month. Community Centre, Cedar Road. We play ALL DIRECTIONS Join us any time between 11am and 1pm bingo, tea and biscuits, and socialise. We is a community learning organisation for a social chat, coffee and biscuits or a also run regular coach trips to the coast for adults and young people aged 16+ fun quiz. For more information contact throughout the year. with physical, learning and mental health Our club is open to anyone over 55 difficulties. For more information, attend a mikeansell.dt@hotmail.co.uk wherever you live and costs just 60p to taster session or visit our community lunch come along and join in. So why not come club, contact Caroline on 01322 440482 or 20S 30S DARTFORD BEXLEYHEATH SURROUNDING AREAS SOCIAL GROUP and join our friendly welcoming social club? 07570 347612 more information visit: For further information please call either www.meetup.com/20s-30s-DartfordJohn Letchford on 01322 270732 or Pam AGE UK, CRAYFORD LIBRARY POP IN Carr on 01322 222195. PARLOUR COFFEE MORNING every Friday Bexleyheath-surrounding-areas-socialmorning 10.30 - 12.30 Tea, Coffee, Biscuits group/ JOYDENS WOOD WOMEN’S INSTITUTE and a chat - Just £1 DARTFORD U3A (UNIVERSITY OF meet on the third Tuesday of every THE THIRD AGE) month, with meetings beginning at BEXLEY AND DARTFORD BRANCH meets on the first Tuesday of every month 7.45pm. We meet at the Community PARKINSONS UK For people with Parkinsons and their carers. (except August) at St Anselm’s Church Hall, Centre, Birchwood Drive, Wilmington, DA2 We have 2 meetings per month. Bexley: 4th West Hill, Dartford at 2pm, For information 7NE. More information can be found at about meetings and interest groups call joydenswoodresidents.co.uk (under Local Thursday of each month, at Pincott Hall, 01474-709068 or visit our website. Clubs and Societies). 2-4pm. Dartford: 2nd Thursday of each month, Mick Jagger Centre, 7.30-9.30pm. WILMINGTON AND AXSTANE PROBUS Information support workers available, CLUB guest speakers and quizzes. Would you like to promote Contact Wendy Leach. Tel: 02083065973 We are a group of retired men who meet a local activity on the monthly for a lunch and a speaker at the “Where to go locally...” Swanley Bowls Centre. We also have THE DARTFORD STROKE GROUP page? a monthly walk and occasional coffee This group meets Monday afternoons mornings and as a side line we raise money at the YMCA Roundhouse, Overy for a local charity. If you are missing the Street, Dartford for a chat in a relaxing If so, email your atmosphere, chair-based excise sessions, contact with other business men since you retired, why not come and join us on the suggestions to stroke leaflets and magazines, informal last Thursday of every month. For more workshops, special art or games sessions editor@dartfordliving. and outings. It is aimed at Stroke Survivors, details contact Phil Burt on 01322 274541 or look at our website www.waprobus.com their carers, family and friends. com Please contact Theo Hodges on Theo. Hodges@gmail.com or phone/text Theo on

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CRAYFORD AND DISTRICT PROBUS CLUB meet on 1st and 3rd Wednesdays at the Falcon Wood Club, 1 Falcon Wood Avenue, Welling at 10am. Contact Tony Maun 0208 306 1075 or email Crayford.Probus@gmail.com.

THE ROTARY CLUB OF DARTFORD We meet at lunchtime at The Royal Victoria and Bull Hotel on 1st, 2nd and 3rd Tuesdays. Time 12.45 for 1 pm For further details phone: 07706 103706

THE RENDEZVOUS CLUB (50+) Every Monday Time: 8pm - 10pm FAIRFIELD (DARTFORD) WI 2nd Tuesday Location: Close to Bexleyheath Town of every month, Dartford Girls’ Grammar Centre School, 7.30pm. Contact Judith on 01322 Description: We are a (non-profit making) 278703 friendly social group open to anyone over fifty. CRAYFORD WOMEN’S INSTITUTE 1st We enjoy socialising, making new friends Thursday of every month at 1.30pm. Baker and activities including Quizzes, Meals Trust Hall. Maxim Road, Crayford (near Out, Trips to the Theatre, Cinema, Coach Sainsburys). Contact Secretary, Linda Trips, Gentle Walks and Short Breaks Away. Lewis 01322 557229 Admission: Subs £2.50 per week. Annual membership £6 DARTFORD LADIES PROBUS CLUB If you would like to join us or require A group of retired ladies meet locally further information please telephone: for lunch on the 4th Wednesday of each Tel: 01322 287356 or 020 8304 6414 month,. They raise funds for charity and usually invite a speaker. Join them and TALK TIME enjoy meeting and making new friends. If TUESDAY 2.00 - 3.00PM (TERM TIME you would like more information please ONLY) contact Iris (Secretary) on 01474 703448 Fleetdown Library Everybody welcome, join us for a friendly MALE? AGED 18 - 45? chat Round Table is for the guys with Ladies and light refreshments. Circle for the Ladies (ladiescircle.co.uk) Dartford RT meets every 2nd and 4th HAVEN (LGBT) SOCIAL GROUP. Thursday. London / Kent area. Every Friday - a safe Often called the original young man’s Place to Meet. social club, Round Table has over 400 For more information please contact clubs in the UK and is in 50+ countries 01322 287356 or 07503 306467 or email worldwide. We have an emphasis on having havenx35@gmail.com a lot of FUN. WILMINGTON WOMEN’S INSTITUTE We guarantee that involvement with is a friendly group who meet on the 2nd Round Table will enhance your social life, Wednesday of every month at 7.30pm in your personal abilities, your network and the Memorial Hall, High Road, Wilmington. best of all it is not expensive. For more information on our activities please call Ann Hambridge on 01322 For your chance to become involved 228082 in something very special, you need to experience it because no other DARTFORD ACTIVE RETIREMENT organisation offers you the opportunities GROUP that Round Table does. [DARTARA] We are a group that meets on second Check out the locally famous club www. Thursday once a month 2 - 4pm at dartfordroundtable.co.uk Fleetdown community centre. At the meeting we have a guest entertainer or Facebook search: speaker, we also organise holidays and * Dartford Round Table day trips out as well as activities including * Round Table theatre trips, curling, short mat bowls, * Dartford Egg Hunt indoor games, coffee and cake afternoons You will receive a very warm welcome. and an art group.

Dixon-Jones 01322 383337 or Glenys Theobald 01322 273108 for more information THE ROTARY CLUB OF THE NORTH DOWNS Our club, which is one of 35,000 around the World, was set up 40 years ago and has members with a wide range of interests and backgrounds. The club actively supports a number of charities locally, nationally and internationally and we continue to raise funds for Ellenor Hospices, Demelza Hospices for Children, Darent Valley Hospital and many others. We are very keen to maintain these traditions and welcome new members from the area. We also organise numerous social activities both for members and the wider community. For more information about the club’s activities and membership please contact Bob Phillips on 07815 807520 or John Smeeth on 07889 137951

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Just turn up on the day or phone Maureen www.dartfordlivinglive.co.uk - www.dartfordliving.com - www.dartfordbusinessdirectory.co.uk

WHERE TO GO LOCALLY CLUBS AND SOCIETIES

to view the large collection of local images, or bring your own for us to copy.

SCRAPPY DAYS! A SCRAPBOOKING GROUP TONI MOUNT HISTORY CLASSES is being held at Hawley Pavilion, The group meet every week at Hawley Road, Dartford, DA2 7RB on Towncentric in Gravesend and this the 2nd Sunday of the month between year we are looking at Everyday Life 2pm and 6:30pm. It costs £6 which in Medieval London. We meet every includes refreshments, nibbles and Thursday from 10.30-12.30 at £6.00 the use of a cricut (cutting machine per week customers can phone me on for those that don’t know). Beginners 01474 355676 for more information are very welcome. Contact Michelle on or look at my website www.tonimount. 07910 488428 or email scrappydays@ co.uk hotmail.co.uk

As the club continues to grow new members are always welcome. The club meets on Wednesday evenings from around 7.00pm until around 9.30pm at our new clubrooms in Invicta House (aka Belvedere Workingmen’s Club), 66 Gilbert Road, Belvedere DA17 5DA.

DARTFORD BRIDGE CLUB meets every Tuesday evening at 7.00 pm at Wilmington Christian Fellowship Church Hall, Broad Lane, Wilmington DA2 7AQ. We are seeking new members at all DSTC ALUMNI PAVILION PLAYERS levels to play Duplicate Bridge -cost £2 Hi all, if you went to DSTC, DTC, Is an amateur dramatics group based per session. Dartford West Girls or any other name at the Joydens Wood Community Enquiries: contact that the school has been known as Centre, Wilmington, Kent. We meet John Davies on 01474 832221 we would love to hear from you! The every Tuesday from 8-10pm. For more or e-mail carolandjohnd@tiscali.co.uk school is looking to make links with information please visit www.faceformer students to help raise the book.com/pavilionplayers or call us on profile of the school but also as a way 07505 006539. Alternatively just pop DARTFORD FLORAL CLUB of getting back in touch with people. down on a Tuesday night! Everyone The club meet on the 3rd Friday of There will be an event later on in the welcome! the month at Hawley Pavilion, Hawley academic year and we are planning Rd.(opp Papermakers Arms) at 7.30 some exciting things for the group so DARTFORD BELLRINGERS Come along for an evening of beautiful get joining and let’s get reminiscing!! Holy Trinity Church, High Street, flowers, fun and friendship. Entrance www.facebook.com/groups/ Wednesdays 8.00-9.30p.m. Free £6.00, refreshments and a raffle with DSTCAlumni tuition with a very friendly, sociable the chance to take home a beautiful group. The ideal way to make new floral arrangement. Contact Carol THE MANOR HALL VARIETY GROUP friends. Phone Ester 01322 220458 01322 220802 We meet every Tuesday at 8.00 in or email: the Community hall (opp St Paulinus esther.correia1@btinternet.com DARTFORD QUILTERS meet on the church) Crayford. We are looking for 2nd Saturday of each month at the anyone who could help us with sound, NORTH WEST KENT FAMILY Mick Jagger Centre, Shepherds Lane, lights, scenery or singing/acting on the HISTORY SOCIETY Dartford. We run a varied programme stage - everyone welcome. Email me The Dartford Branch meet the 1st of activities suitable for the beginner (Carolyn) for more details at Saturday of each month from 10amthrough to the more experienced c_sawyers@hotmail.com. 12:30pm at the Dartford Science and quilter. More details can be obtained Technology College, Heath Lane, For from the club secretary on 01474 CRAYFORD TOWN ARCHIVE more information see www.nwkfhs. 834872 incorporating Barnehurst and Slade org.uk or ring Janet 01322384836 Green. Meet every Monday (except DARTFORD BOOKS AND CULTURE the third Monday) of the month at ERITH MODEL RAILWAY SOCIETY CLUB Crayford Library hall - 2pm-4pm. Call has been in existence for over 50 years meets once a month on Saturday in for a chat about old Crayford and and has well over 50 active members. mornings at Dartford Library. For more 52

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information, find us at www.meetup.com/ West-Kent-Book-Club/ EXTRAORDINARY YOUTH GROUP’ calling all 11-18 year olds who want more THE DARTFORD CHESS CLUB than an ordinary life, come hang out The club meets every Thursday evening with other young people and discover from 7.30pm at St Anselms Parish Hall, their ultimate purpose. Every Friday in West Hill and was founded 100 years ago in term time, 7pm-9:30pm at Net Church 1914. All queries to Mike Wiltshire at 01322 Dartford, near McDonalds and next to 272152 or visit www.dartfordchessclub. Weatherspoons. co.uk For more information email andrew@ COLUMBINE CHINA PAINTERS CLUB thenetchurch.co.uk or call 01322 272649. meets on the 1st and 3rd Thursday each month SHORNE FLOWER ARRANGERS at Sutton at Hone Village Hall. 1.30pm Our Club presents a programme of until 4.30pm. £3.00 per afternoon (to workshops and demonstrations in a very include a raffle ticket and tea/coffee) informal and friendly atmosphere. We £10.00 yearly fee. meet on the last Thursday of each month We are a small, friendly club, not except December. Shorne Village Hall, expensive. Tuition given. All supplies can The Street, Shorne. DA12 3EA. Visitors be bought in situe. Come and see if you like are always made very welcome, entry £3. it, You will be very welcome. We have 30 members and look forward to welcoming anyone who loves flowers. The Contact - Maureen Beckham 01322 Club provides an opportunity for people to 287214. Marie Blake 01474 704581. be creative, make friends. Doreen Goddard 01474 707357. For further information please phone 01474 353405 or email landaclatworthy@ WEST HILL MORRIS btinternet.com Come and join your local Morris side, dancing and performing in Dartford, SWANLEY HISTORY GROUP Gravesend and Bexley areas and Meets 1st Tuesday of every month. throughout Kent in the Summer. We are Presentations on local social history. a mixed and very sociable side, and can Venue Swanley Indoor Bowls Centre always find room for new dancers and Garrolds Close Swanley BR8 7BF. Doors musicians. It’s a great way of keeping fit open 7.15 for 7.30 p.m. Members £1 and you’ll be helping to conserve a great Visitors £2. Everyone welcome. Email English tradition. We practice alternate swanleyhistorygroup@hotmail.co.uk for Tuesday evenings at Bexley, from more details or visit our website https:// September to April, then dancing out at swanleyhistorygroup.weebly.com or pubs, clubs and fetes, throughout Kent, Facebook page. Annual membership £5 from May to August. Private Bookings includes a monthly newsletter. taken. Contact Alison on 01322 862298, e-mail alisondukes@btinternet.com NORTH KENT EMBROIDERERS’ GROUP Meets on the third Saturday of every STIMUL8 ACTIVITY SERVICE month (except August) from 2pm - 4pm I provide all the equipment, materials and in the Community Room of Gravesend refreshments with just a small all inclusive, Library, Windmill Street, Gravesend DA12 pay as you go, fee of £10.00 per person 1BE. The programme of activities is varied per session. with workshops, talks and sit and stitch Those who come have the opportunity to sessions. Visitors are very welcome. More learn painting with watercolours, acrylics, information can be found on our website inks and how to draw with pencils, soft www.northkentembroiderers.co.uk or pastels, oil pastels, charcoals, watercolour phone 01474324734. pencils, fabric pens, plus basics of sculpting and have the opportunity to sign THE GARDENING CLUB SUTTON AT up to additional floral workshops I offer HONE too. www.stimul8-activityservice.co.uk Monthly meetings, Visits to Gardens,

Annual Garden Show and much more. For more information or to become a member please ring 01322 863556. MODERN LINEDANCING CLASSES St Michael & All Angels Church Hall, DA2 7EG Wednesdays 1pm - 2pm. Fun, social class learning routines from differing genres to popular music providing exercise for body and brain. No dance experience or partners necessary. Contact Kay 01322 276528 BEXLEY PHILATELIC SOCIETY Meetings first and third Friday of the month at Freemantle Hall, Bexley village, 7:30 for 7:45 start. Covering stamps and postal history, meetings offer displays, auctions, competitions, and convivial atmosphere. More information on www. bexleyps.org.uk MAKE A NOISE CHOIR Singing songs from the shows and having fun! We meet every Tuesday from 7.30 p.m. to 9.30 p.m. at St Anselm’s Church, West Hill, Dartford DA1 2HJ www.makeanoisechoir.com

GIRLGUIDING – DARTFORD DIVISION Girlguiding is the leading charity for girls and young women aged 5-18 in the UK. There are more than 30 groups in the Dartford area run by our amazing volunteers who inspire girls every week. Our new programme delivers the fun and varied range of activities that you expect from guiding, and of course, there’s still plenty of badges to earn. We’ve introduced new topics, new skills and new ways for girls to broaden their horizons. There are lots of flexible ways to volunteer so no matter how much time you have you can #inspiregirls too. If you would like to find out more please register your interest www.girlguiding.org.uk/interested

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WHERE TO GO LOCALLY SPORTS GROUPS AND CLUBS 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

Becket Sport Centre, first lesson free. For more info, visit www.ydma.club or DARTFORD JU JITSU CLUB find us on Facebook, search for Yamato Mondays 7-8pm for 7-16s at the Damashii Martial Arts. Dartford Girls Grammar, Shepherds Lane Dartford DA1 2NT in the Dance YOGA WITH EMMA Studio. Becket Sports Centre (evenings): We have an adult class 8-10pm too. - Mondays: Yoga for Men – 8.30pm to 9.30pm We’ve been running for 20 years, - Thursdays: Hatha Yoga – 6.00pm to 7.00pm building confidence, teaching - Fridays: Hatha Yoga – 7.00pm to 8.00pm self-defence, hardening the target, developing skills and always welcome Europa Gymnastics Centre (mornings): new members. - Wednesdays: Hatha Yoga – 9.30am to 10.30am - Fridays: Hatha Yoga – 9.30am to 10.30am - Fridays: Mindful Yin Yoga – 10.45am to 11.45am

Sunday 10:45-12:00, Sussex Road Erith. Ages 4-16 welcome 07903 590515

For more information please contact Emma: emma@samadhi-yoga.co.uk TEL: 07932 621415 www.samadhi-yoga.co.uk

Sundays 10:15-10:45 at Swanscombe Leisure Centre. Call Saj on 07903 513104

www.kentexiles.co.uk. Coach Martin - 07944 730634. All ages from 7 years to adult welcome

ERITH YOUTH RUGBY

LITTLE TIGERS - KARATE FOR 3, 4 & KENT EXILES AMERICAN FOOTBALL CLUB 5 YEAR OLDS

DARTFORD GYMNASTICS

is the only British Gymnastics Club in Dartford to hold the”GymMark” Award for 6 years. 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 54

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

Would you like to promote a local activity on the “Where to go locally...” page? If so, email your suggestions to

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DARTFORD LIVING

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.

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DARTFORD ORIENTEERING CLUB

SEEDS CYCLING CLUB DARTFORD Seeds is a long-established cycling Club in Dartford and we share our headquarters at Hesketh with Dartford Cricket Club. HOP LIKE IT’S HOT We cater for most abilities and have a A fun (different) circuit based workout social ride most Saturday mornings. For with space hoppers that challenges core info on joining us please visit our website stabilty, balance and strength. It is suitable www.seedscycling.co.uk For more details see www.dfok.co.uk

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.

D A R T FO R D A N D W H I T E O A K TRIATHLON CLUB We are the local British Triathlon Federation Club covering Bexley, Dartford THE HIGHLY STRUNG BADMINTON and Swanley. We offer coached swimming CLUB, sessions 3 times per week at White Friendly club seeking new members. oak pool in Swanley and Fairfield pool Abilities mixed. in Dartford. Our members compete in Would suit players with some prior many local Triathlons plus many members experience. are training towards Iron Man distance. Thursdays at 7.45-9.45pm, Dartford Girls’ We also have our own Triathlon in June Grammar School, DA1 2NT every year which has been running since For further information please email: 1989. If you are interested in joining us stephanie.thredgle@btinternet.com then please visit our website http://www.dartfordandwhiteoaktri.co.uk WAR GAMES AND MODEL CLUB Based in Erith we have a wide number of The White Oak Triathlon is one of the members from across SE London and oldest Triathlon events in England. Kent. A great place to come and have Now in its 29th year the event is a club a game, make, paint and hobby! Or, if organised event, for triathletes delivered you prefer, come grab a cup of tea and by triathletes so you can be sure that chat about all things hobby and some the club focuses upon delivering a first things not! For more info visit - https:// class race experience. The 2019 race emperors10th.wixsite.com/home will take place on 9th June. h t t p s : // w w w . s t u w e b . c o . u k / DARTFORD PARKRUN events/2019/06/9/3250/ Dartford parkrun is a free to enter 5k run every Saturday morning starting DARTFORD ROAD RUNNERS by the Dartford harriers track in Central Dartford Road Runners are based at Park at 9am. All participants get a time Princes Park Stadium and are one of the a position emailed and texted after the biggest road running clubs in Kent. We event. To register go to currently have about 200 members of all www.parkrun.org.uk. Remember to bring abilities including a beginners group. DRR your printed Barcode. teams compete in the Kent League, the Every Sunday Morning in the Park there Assembly League and the Kent Fitness is a Junior parkrun over 2k – registration League. To see what we offer and how to is the same. join us please visit our website – anyone is welcome to join us with all abilities. DARTFORD HEATH PARKRUN http://dartfordroadrunners.co.uk/ Dartford’s 2nd parkrun event is now node/440 live. The run starts behind the Heath Lane car park and is a free 5k run every DARTFORD HARRIERS ATHLETICS Saturday morning at 9am. CLUB Parking is restricted in the area so please Dartford Harriers is among the leading do not park in Heathclose Road and athletics clubs in Kent, with a history wherever possible please walk. stretching back to the 1920′s, making it one of the oldest clubs in the country. FOOTSCRAY MEADOW PARKRUN If you are interested in seeing how we A new Parkrun event with parking at can help you advance your Athletics Crazy Barn then please visit our website http://www.dartfordharriersac.co.uk

Entries are now open for the 2019 Dartford Half marathon at the website – The event will be on 3rd march 2019 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 http://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 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.

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ADVERTISERS INDEX

DIRECTORY OF LOCAL BUSINESSES ADVERTISING IN DARTFORD LIVING ACCOUNTANTS, FINANCE & LEGAL

Downton Ali Associates....................................................59

Financial Aims....................................................................22 BUILDERS, DECORATORS ROOFING, BATHROOMS, KITCHENS & WINDOWS

Claremont Decorative Services........................................36 Steve Cook - Double Glazing.............................................22 The Double Glazing Repair Man.........................................4

ESTATE/ LETTING AGENTS

Fox Estates ........................................................................17 Wisdom Estates.................................................................23 GARAGES & VEHICLE SERVICES

Orchard Garage.................................................................60 Shenley Road Garage.........................................................15 JEWELLERY

CAFE

Bradleys..............................................................................25 LOGISTICS/ REMOVALS

CAR CARE

NURSERY

Two Trees Cafe ................................................................37

FD TRANSPORT ..........................................................38

ChipsAway..........................................................................11 The Brent Playgroup....................................................47 YMCA..............................................................................5 CHILDREN Bip Bop Shop................................................................27 MEDICAL AND HEALTH Hartbeeps....................................................................49

Helping Hands..............................................................13

Crossways Church.........................................................7

Blondies Fitness.................................................................22

Time for you cleaning................................................34 COUNCIL

Fairfield Leisure Centre.....................................................30

COUNSELLING

Worried about your childs weight?...................................16

Monkey Music...............................................................55 Slimming World...............................................................2 MUSIC/DANCE & FITNESS CHURCH CLEANING

Dartford Borough Council ................................................31 Still My Soul..................................................................21 DENTAL CARE

Smile Avenue................................................................15 ELECTRICIANS

ElectricWorx London...........................................................4

Dartford Bootcamps..........................................................32

On Pointe Pilates................................................................19

Why Weight?......................................................................20 OPTICIANS

Linklater Opticians.............................................................43 PICTURE FRAMING

Craft Frames.......................................................................38 RESTURANT

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EFES...................................................................................25 RETIREMENT LIVING

Churchill.......................................................................10 SECURITY

Excel Security Systems.....................................................39 SPORTS

Paul Page Golf Academy......................................................7 Fairfield Leisure Centre......................................................28 THEATRE

Orchard Theatre................................................................43 WEBSITE DESIGN

Dartford Living Design................................................30 WILL WRITING

SMN Will Writing ..........................................................38

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YOUR NEXT DEADLINE IS 12TH JANUARY 2019

Dartford Living does not certify, endorse or verify the contents of any communication within the magazine/our online presence or make warranty of any kind, express or implied, with regard to the information contained therein. Dartford Living and its owners cannot be held responsible for any errors, omissions or claims made by advertisers or endorse companies, products or services that appear in any Dartford Living publication or media outlet. Dartford Living is not responsible for the content of external internet sites.

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

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

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 HEALTH Judianne/Paula Darent Valley Hospital 01322 428100 01322 224072 Dartford East Health Centre National Domestic Violence 01322 421480 Helpline (24 hour) Dartford West Health Centre 0808 2000 247 01322 223600 NSPCC Child Protection Helpline: Boots Chemist Bluewater 0808 800 5000 01322 624780 (Late Night) RSPCA Kent, ASDA Greenhithe Chemist North West Branch Helpline 01322 374100 (Late Night) The National Pandemic Flu Service 01322 286720 0800 1513 100 Samaritans: West Kent NHS helpline 116 123 0800 0 850850 LOCAL MP TRAVEL Gareth Johnson 020 7219 7047 Heathrow Airport Enquires 08700 000123 LOCAL SPORTS CLUBS Bexley Rugby Club Gatwick Airport Enquires 01322 550142 or 08700 002468 www.pitchero.com/clubs/ National Rail Enquires bexleyrfc/ 08456 484950 Dartford Ladies Hockey Club Highways England Info Line Dawn Hall (Secretary) 07793 0300 123 5000 777250 Dartford Ju Jitsu Club Mondays, Dartford Girls HELPLINES 24 Hour Kent Dementia Helpline: Grammar School, Shepherds 58

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

Dartford Sharks Basketball Club Tim Dickson - 07855 692527. Dartford Volleyball Club Graham - 01322 275290 or 07984 106134. Stone Lodge Indoor Bowling Club 01322 274111. VCD Table Tennis Club Eric Jenkins - 0208 3038312. ‘Play & pay’, 9 hole, par 3 golf course on Dartford Football Club’s Princes Park- Contact: 01322 299990 www.dartfordfc.com The Ashes Badminton Club Mondays, Dartford Technology College, Heath Lane. 7.30-9.30. Jacqui 07764 182854. Dartford Valley RFC www.pitchero.com/clubs/ darenthvalleyrfc/ USEFUL FACEBOOK GROUPS Dartford Living Dartford Today and Tomorrow Dartford Remembered Dartford Gossip Dartford Living Community Group

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BECOME A SUPERHERO To find out how we can give you

the power to protect those you love through our life insurance plans, speak to us on 02030210075 or visit www.downtonandali.co.uk

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