MAKING MIRACLES

Making Miracles is THE baby trauma and family bereavement care charity.

Making Miracles was founded in 2014 after Kelly Wells experienced a traumatic, high risk pregnancy and the near loss of her daughters life. Kelly searched for organisations to help her but instead found herself on chat rooms and realising she was not alone in feelings of isolation and grief.

The idea of Making Miracles was a result of this and soon after the birth of her daughter Kelly decided things needed to change, so she started the charity so no parent would ever feel as alone as she did.

Making Miracles offers a range of services which includes our FREE professional counselling service, the Baby Memorial Garden, published childrens book ‘The Baby’, Keepsake Ted and a collection of support groups. Making Miracles is open to all the family including parents, grandparents and siblings and is the only UK charity providing this to date.

If you would like to know more about the charity, the services we provide or need support please contact Becci on 07921333003 or email becci@makingmiracles.org.uk

Alternatively, you can visit our website - www.makingmiracles.org.uk

RORY STEYN, NELSON MANDELA’S CHIEF OF SECURITY, IS COMING TO ST MICHAEL’S

Thursday 24 March 2022. 7.00pm for 7.309.00pm

Nelson Mandela’s former Chief of Security RORY STEYN will be visiting St Michael’s Wilmington to talk about what it was like to protect “Madiba” and share some of what drives him in life, including his Christian faith.

This FREE event begins with light buffet refreshments at 7.00pm for a start at 7.30 and should end at 9.00pm.

We will be hearing from Rory about his life as a policeman in South Africa and especially what it was like to protect one of the most famous, not to mention respected, people in the world. He will also share something of how his Christian faith has impacted him in his work.

This is ticketed but all are welcome to attend. Please register to receive your free ticket, either by phoning the Vicar, Revd Carl Chambers, on 01322 634506 / 07368 223743 or by visiting https://tinyurl.com/stmichaels-rory

St Michael’s Church, Church Hill, Wilmington DA2 7EG

FULLY OPEN FOR DINING IN

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

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

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

STRAIGHT OUT OF DARTFORD

bY SHANNON RANDALL

Gemma Wallace; actor, voice over artist, stunt expert and Dartford resident. A few examples of her most recent work would be; Creatures (2021), Blade of the Assassin (2021), and The Wasteland of Education (2021). She also has four other projects currently under pre/post production or currently filming. Despite being an incredibly busy and highly sought out person, Gemma kindly gave me a few minutes of her time to answer some questions for me. There seems to be an ongoing dispute with people in the creative industries about whether University is something that is truly beneficial. As Gemma chose to study her speciality at University, I asked for her opinions on this topic and her advice is incredibly helpful, especially for those who feel that University is their only option. I thought it was worth sharing this at the beginning. “University was what I needed to grow as a person- to discover who I was, what I was passionate about and above all… it’s where I made mistakes and learnt. I feel it’s not essential but a great option of focusing on training and developing your skills. You can get this without going into education, you will just need to be more proactive, learning it all on the job instead. Everyone’s different…trust your process and choose what you want to do, don’t choose because you feel you have to do like others.” At University, she specialised in Screen, Voice Over and “the big goal of getting through the door in Motion Capture”, which she has now accomplished! One interesting aspect of Gemma’s amazing career is her skills in stunt work which she gained through training with a stunt team. She has also trained in stage and screen combat which involves different types of martial arts and sports. Talking about her incredible range when it comes to stunt work, Gemma said that all the training, “allowed me to develop my screen combat skills and apply it to my acting roles. That’s the ultimate goal - to combine both skills in one epic role.” Not only this, but she also enjoys kickboxing, boxing and practising a vast variety of different accents! Gemma’s favourite skill? Anything involving spins and flips on wires. This is probably a good sign considering one of Gemma’s dreams is to be cast as the superhero Spider-Gwen… Speaking it into the universe to help manifest this dream of yours Gemma! Another difficult part of pursuing acting as a career is being on the hunt for an agent. Gemma’s advice? “Over the years I’ve learnt it’s more about finding the right agent for you and it’s about a partnership as you’ll be working with them in developing your career and should be on the same page. I learnt that I couldn’t compare myself to others and “how fast” they land one as everyone’s journeys are different and it doesn’t always reflect on you as a performer.” As I always do with my pieces, I asked Gemma for some more general advice for aspiring actors and stunt performers alike…”It’s never too late to try. Try looking into local clubs, improv classes, different practitioners, introduction sessions and so on. Research, read and ask for reviews, look out for networking events in your area, connect with fellow creatives on social media... You got this!” For more Gemma content and info, see the links below! Instagram- gemmawallaceacting IMDB- www.imdb.com/name/nm8200623/ Website- gemmawallace.com

In this month’s article we look at new versions to the SUV market, including a luxury high-end model.

2022 Alfa Romeo Tonale SUV – this is the allnew Alfa Romeo Tonale family SUV gets plug-in hybrid power and bold looks. From a concept car in 2019 to going on sale 3 years later. In a tough SUV sector its USP is a plug-in hybrid with a longer electric-only range than any of its rivals at 37 miles, so could do a school run or commute without any petrol. A 178bhp, 1.3-litre petrol engine is also on hand to give a total power output of 271bhp. Its exterior looks are similar to the concept car and on the interior two touchscreen large displays which can be customised to show what you want. Other highlights include a wireless charging pad for your mobile phone, and a 14-speaker stereo system developed by Harman Kardon. On sale in September this year prices are not announced but expected to start from around £40,000. with almost 700bhp and a suite of performance upgrades. The name signifies the power output of 707PS, which is 697bhp, for its new sports SUV model which will be one of the most powerful available. The styling of the DBX707 certainly suggests power and its flourishes are not just cosmetic but also functional. Up front, there’s a bold new chrome-finished grille (which has been enlarged to increase cooling airflow), and below that sits a new front splitter. Its engine will be an uprated version of the Aston Martin twin-turbo 4.0-litre petrol V8. To help cope with the increased performance, powerful carbon-ceramic brakes are standard. It will come with a new nine-speed automatic gearbox and on the inside a more button-orientated set-up rather than mainly touchscreen. Prices start at £189,000 when it goes on sale in April 2022.

2022 Skoda Enyaq Coupé iV – The rakishly styled Skoda Enyaq Coupé aims to build on the success of the brand’s first bespoke electric car, the Enyaq large SUV. The design has a squared-off rear end of the regular car for a roof that curves downwards more dramatically and incorporates a panoramic glass sunroof as standard. All electric car versions use a 77kWh battery, which can be charged at a rate of up to 125kW, meaning it’s possible to top it up from 10-80% in 29 minutes. Meanwhile, a full charge (0-100%) using an 11kW home wallbox takes six to eight hours. Whichever Enyaq Coupé you choose, standard equipment includes a 13.0in touchscreen infotainment system, dual-zone climate control, a heated steering wheel and powerful LED headlights, with Sportline and vRS models upgrading these to matrix LEDs. On sale in the Spring of 2022 prices are not announced but could start from £41,600.

UPCOMING SHOWS AT THE ORCHARD THEATRE

Johannes Radebe – Freedom Fri 8 April “I can’t WAIT to begin the tour!” Johannes exclaims, his smile as wide as his elasticated hips are narrow. And it’s some tour! Kicking off on 16 March and running through to 1 May, Johannes is dancing his way all over the country in a show that is described as ‘a celebration of music and dance’. From African fusion to fiery Latin, audiences can expect classic dance arrangements and huge party anthems, all delivered by a company of exciting dancers. Confessing that the idea of ‘dancing to my own tune’ has always been a prospect that has thrilled him, Johannes elaborates: “I have danced in groups, on ships, in bars, on the street - I have always wanted to be a performer. But since a young age I have always aspired to perform in theatre. That’s where my roots are. The desire to have my own show; to tell my own story through dance, is wonderful. It’s a story about where I come from. It’s going to be beautiful and inspirational and will tell people that you can dare to dream big; that the world is more accepting now. It’s going to be a journey.” “Freedom is my story and it will be full of love and passion,” he promises, becoming more thoughtful as he explains his vision for the production: “I wanted to incorporate everything I know and everything I am, using my world to showcase some of those stories of South Africa. There they have their own way of dancing. But there are also party anthems. It’s a show for everyone to be a part of if they want to. I definitely want a party at the end! I want people who are passionate to come and enjoy it. It’s an extravaganza that I have created using my mind, body and soul. I want everyone up on their feet and in the aisles. It’s the freedom to do what you want and to be who you want in the world.”

DAODS - All Shook Up Wed 13 - Sat 16 April Dartford Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society presents ... All Shook Up, inspired by and featuring the songs of Elvis Presley. Dartford Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society (DAODS) is a Dartford based charity that has been serving the people of Dartford and surrounding area for over a hundred years. The society has a reputation of which its members and the wider community are incredibly proud.

It’s 1955, and into a square little town in a square little state rides a guitar-playing young man who changes everything and everyone he meets. Loosely based on Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night, this hip-swiveling, lip-curling musical fantasy will have you jumpin’ out of your blue suede shoes with such classics as Heartbreak Hotel, Hound Dog, Jailhouse Rock, and Don’t Be Cruel.

Chicago Tue 19 - Sat 23 April Chicago, the “sexiest musical ever” (Metro) is back in Dartford starring one of the world’s greatest classical singers, Russell Watson, as Billy Flynn, Coronation Street’s Faye Brookes (Dancing On Ice, Grease, Legally Blonde) as Roxie Hart, Three Degrees legend Sheila Ferguson (Thoroughly Modern Millie, Soul Train, Oh! What A Night) as Matron ‘Mama’ Morton and West End star Djalenga Scott (Annie, Chicago, West Side Story) as Velma Kelly.

Set amidst the razzle-dazzle decadence of the 1920s, Chicago is the story of Roxie Hart, a housewife and nightclub dancer who murders her on-theside lover after he threatens to walk out on her. Desperate to avoid conviction, she dupes the public, the media and her rival cellmate, Velma Kelly, by hiring Chicago’s slickest criminal lawyer to transform her malicious crime into a barrage of sensational headlines, the likes of which might just as easily be ripped from today’s tabloids. Created by the musical theatre talents of John Kander, Fred Ebb and legendary choreographer Bob Fosse, CHICAGO’s sexy, sassy score with one show-stopping song after another includes “Razzle Dazzle”, “Cell Block Tango”, and “All That Jazz”. With 6 Tony Awards, 2 Olivier Awards, a Grammy® and thousands of standing ovations, CHICAGO “remains a phenomenon” (Sunday Express). - Cast and performance schedule subject to change without notice. Beautiful Tue 26 - Sat 30 April A brand new production of the Award Winning West End and Broadway show, Beautiful – The Carole King Musical, comes to Dartford! Long before she was Carole King, the chart-topping music legend, she was an ordinary girl with an extraordinary talent. Beautiful tells the inspiring true story of King’s remarkable rise to stardom, from being part of a hit song-writing team with her husband Gerry Goffin, to her relationship with fellow writers and best friends Cynthia Weil and Barry Mann, to becoming one of the most successful solo acts in popular music history.

Along the way, she wrote the soundtrack to a generation, with countless classics such as (You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman, Take Good Care of My Baby, You’ve Got a Friend, So Far Away, It Might as Well Rain Until September, Up on the Roof, and The Locomotion.

COMPETITION

Win Ralph Steadman print worth £550 and a pair of tickets to see Carmen.

The internationally renowned artist, Ralph Steadman, is best known for his collaborations with journalist and author Hunter S. Thompson (Fear & Loathing in Las Vegas, The Curse of Lono). Working for Rolling Stone Magazine they created the notion of Gonzo where the story for an article becomes more about the covering of the subject than the subject itself. Starting in the 1950’s, Ralph’s career has included resident artist for wine merchant’s Oddbins, illustrator to Will Self’s Independent column, Pshycogeography and theatre and set designs for the Royal Opera House’ & “The Crucible”. Ralph has also been a patron of Opera and Ballet International for many years. Many of his stunning opera illustrations were created for Ellen Kent or for Harry Enfield’s Guide to Opera in the 1990’s. Senbla presents Opera International’s award-winning Ellen Kent Production with international soloists, highly-praised chorus and full orchestra. Starring international Russian mezzo soprano Maria Davydova and Romanian mezzo soprano Katerina Timbaliuk*. An evening of passion, sexual jealousy, death and unforgettable arias. This dazzling production with orchestra features Bizet’s unforgettable melodies including ‘The Toreador’s Song’, Carmen’s enticing ‘Habanera’, and Don José’s lyrical ‘Flower Song’ in a setting evoking the stunning architecture of Seville and its main square with Roman and Moorish influences. Sung in French with English subtitles.

Question: Where is Carmen set? A. Rome B. Seville C. Athens

Email competition@dartfordliving.com by the 15th March to be in with a chance of winning.

MILLIONAIRE SHORTBREAD

By Debbie Dickinson

It’s Mother’s Day this month and so this is a super indulgent dessert that any mum (or anyone really!) would love.

What you need:

For the Shortbread 180g Unsalted Butter 90g Icing Sugar 280g Plain Flour

For the Caramel 100g Unsalted Butter 25g Caster Sugar 25g Golden Syrup (about 4 Tbsp) 200g Condensed Milk

Chocolate Topping 200g Milk Chocolate, broken into small pieces. 50g White Chocolate (optional) What to do: Preheat the oven to 160°C (Fan) For the Shortbread Cream the Butter and the Icing Sugar together until smooth in a large bowl. Add the Flour and rub together between your fingers until all combined and there are no lumps of butter still in the dough. Tip the dough into your tin - it will still seem quite crumbly but press down firmly into the tin. Level off and, using a fork, prick a few holes all over the surface. Bake for 15-20 minutes until just starting to colour. Leave to cool.

For the Caramel Pop the Butter, Sugar, Golden Syrup and Condensed Milk in a saucepan and heat gently to dissolve the sugar. Once it has all dissolved and the butter has melted, turn up the heat to allow the mix to come to the boil. This mix will become very hot so please be very careful! Reduce the heat slightly and, stirring often, boil very gently for 5-6 minutes until it has turned a slightly darker colour and becomes a bit thicker. Leave to cool slightly then pour onto the shortbread base. Tilt the tin to ensure an even layer. Leave to cool completely. Melt the Milk Chocolate in small bursts in the microwave (or in a bowl over a saucepan of just-simmering water) until about ¾ of the chocolate has melted. Remove from the heat and stir until the rest of the chocolate has melted in. Pour and spread over the top of the caramel and leave to set. To decorate, melt the White Chocolate and drizzle across the top of the set chocolate. Because it’s quite a rich dish, I would advise cutting into about 20 squares.

North Kent Mind is an independent mental health charity operating in Dartford, Gravesham, Swanley and Medway.

We offer lots of different kinds of support to individuals in these areas, such as Wellbeing Services, Employment Services, Supported Housing, Talking Therapies and a Children and Young Persons Service.

There has been a surge in the need for mental health support following the impact of COVID-19, which means we have had to grow the charity in line with the needs of the community. To do this, we are employing individuals to work on new and growing projects, as well as taking on people to generally support the organisation.

Throughout the pandemic, we have adjusted to the remote delivery of services, and are now running both in-person as well as remote services.

Wellbeing Services is just one of our evergrowing departments within the charity. Through this service we offer a selection of groups such as Mindfulness courses which help individuals understand and deal with thoughts and feelings, through to our award winning Ecology Island, a nature-based activity in Darenth Country Park. One of our popular groups based in Dartford is our Men’s Group, which combines open discussion with physical activity to tackle the stigma of mental health and to get men talking. We receive positive feedback from attendees “I think it was a lovely non-judgemental atmosphere. I can’t wait to get out and meet more new people” Another of our departments showing continual growth is our Children and Young Persons Service. Within this service we provide support through a range of different projects, designed to improve mental health and wellbeing of those aged 4-18. We work within both Primary and Secondary schools, to provide individual coaching as well as group sessions to tackle mental health topics. “I really like the sessions, they help me tackle my anxiety and I have been feeling less worried and have used the things we have talked about, it’s been a really good time” A primary school student.

Besides the group-work described above, we also offer individual therapies. These are delivered by various professionals such as Psychological Wellbeing Practitioners, High Intensity CBT Therapists, and Qualified Counsellors. We use various models of help, such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Psychoeducation, Counselling and Mindfulness. All of these will be explained in more detail during assessment.

North Kent Mind is continually reviewing and adapting our services in response to changing circumstances. Thanks to our amazing network of employees and volunteers, we hope to be able to keep up with the demand and provide the support needed by the local community.

To contact us, our reception number is 01322 291380, or you can email admin@northkentmind.co.uk. Self-referrals and more information on all of our services can be found on our website northkentmind.co.uk.

PARENT AND TODDLER GROUPS - TERM TIME ONLY

MONDAYS 9:15am - 11:00am - A&J Toddlers - St Anselms Church Community Centre, Dartford. £2.00 per one adult and child and 50p for any extra children or adults each. Tea/coffee biscuits, small snack for children with juice. Toast 20p per slice Craft table and singing and dancing at end of session Contact Julie on 01322 291092.

TUESDAYS Session 1: 9.15-10.45am, and Session 2: 11-12.30pm. Christchurch, Crossroad, Dartford. Contact Catherine on 01322 220036. 9.30am -11.30am. The Salvation Army, 66 Hythe Street, Dartford. Please call us on (01322) 288434 for further information. 9.30am-11.30am Sticky Fingers - £1.50 per adult includes tea ,biscuits and healthy snack time for the children For pre school children up to 4 years St Mary Greenhithe Church Hall London Road Greenhithe Contact 01322 382031 or see www.stmarygreenhithe.com 9:30-10:30am at Fleetdown Utd FC (near Dunelm). £5 per session if you sign up for the term, siblings go free.Contact 07770860450 or Facebook.com/musicandrhymetime WEDNESDAYS 10am -12pm - Little Angels Net Church, (Formerly Gala Bingo Hall) Dartford, £2.50 per family including all snacks and drinks. Catherine 07878658685 11.15am - SLADE GREEN AND HOWBURY COMMUNITY LIBRARY BABY AND TODDLER ACTION RHYME TIME GROUP 12:45pm -2.45pm - Fleetdown Open House - Fleetdown Community Centre, Swaledale Road, Dartford, DA2 6JZ £2.50 per Adult

THURSDAYS 9:30am - 11:30am. St Paulinus Church Hall, Manor Road, Crayford. 9.30am-11am Toerags Toddler Group - Adult education centre, Dartford £3 per Child - £1 Non Walkers - facebook.com/ToeRags 1pm-2.30pm Toerags Toddler Group - Adult education centre, Dartford £3 per Child - £1 Non Walkers - facebook.com/ToeRags 10:30-11:30am, at Fleetdown Utd FC (near Dunelm). £5 per session if you sign up for the term, siblings go free.Contact 07770860450 or Facebook.com/musicandrhymetime

FRIDAYS 9.30am-11am Baby and me for expectant mothers and mothers / carers of chidren up to 2. £1 per adult St Mary Greenhithe Church Hall, London Road Greenhithe. Contact 01322 382031 or see www.stmarygreenhithe.com 9.30am-11am Toerags Toddler Group - Adult education centre, Dartford £3 per Child - £1 Non Walkers - facebook.com/ToeRags 9.30am-11.30am Carer & Toddler Group, St Mary’s Church Hall, Stone Place Rd, Greenhithe. Jeanne 01322 380322 jeannehoadley@yahoo.co.uk 1-3pm Gigglekidz, Tree Estate Community Centre on Cedar Road - £2 Per Child

SATURDAYS 9.30am-11.30am Daddy and Me - A group for dads and male carers of children up to 5years. £1.50 includes healthy snack time for the children. St Mary Greenhithe Church Hall, London Road Greenhithe. Contact 01322 382031 or see www.stmarygreenhithe.com 2-3pm - Lego Club- ages 5 and over - Chrome Road Slade Green DA8 2EL Tel: 01322 333602

LOCAL CLUBS AND ASSOCIATIONS IN AND AROUND DARTFORD - DUE TO COVID PLEASE CHECK WITH ORGANISER TO MAKE SURE THE CLUBS ARE STILL OPERATING

THE NORTH WEST KENT BRANCH OF THE MOTOR NEURONE DISEASE ASSOCIATIONmeets on various date at Birchwood Country Club For more information contact Alexon 01322 228169. DARTFORD OSTOMY GROUP SUPPORT (DOGS) meet every third Wednesday in the month at St Anselm’s Parish Centre, West Hill, Dartford DA1 2HJ from 1.00 pm to 3.00 pm. It is for anyone who has an Ileostomy, Colostomy, Urostomy, IBS and pouch, their carers, family and friends. ALL DIRECTIONS is a community learning organisation for adults and young people aged 16+ with physical, learning and mental health difficulties. For more information, attend a taster session or visit our community lunch club, contact Caroline on 01322 440482 or 07570 347612

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

BEXLEY AND DARTFORD BRANCH PARKINSONS UK For people with Parkinsons and their carers. Dartford: 2nd Wednesday of each month, Mick Jagger Centre, 7.30-9.30pm. Information support workers available, guest speakers and quizzes. Contact Wendy Leach. Tel: 02083065973 THE WELLBEING LINK The Wellbeing Link meets on Friday mornings from 10-1pm in the St. Anselm’s Parish Centre, 89 West Hill, Dartford A friendly and informative group - call Julie On 07775875585 JUST FOR GROWN UPS GROUP We are a small friendly group who meet at the Meeting Place in the Orchards Shopping Centre on the first Tuesday of the month. Join us any time between 11am and 1pm for a social chat, coffee and biscuits or a fun quiz. For more information contact mikeansell.dt@hotmail. co.uk

20S 30S DARTFORD BEXLEYHEATH SURROUNDING AREAS SOCIAL GROUP more information visit: www.meetup.com/20s-30s-DartfordBexleyheath-surrounding-areas-social-group/ DARTFORD U3A (UNIVERSITY OF THE THIRD AGE) meets on the first Tuesday of every month (except August) at St Anselm’s Church Hall, West Hill, Dartford at 2pm, For information about meetings and interest groups call 01474709068 or visit our website. Swanley Bowls Centre. We also have a monthly walk and occasional coffee mornings and as a side line we raise money for a local charity. If you are missing the contact with other business men since you retired, why not come and join us on the last Thursday of every month. For more details contact Phil Burt on 01322 274541 or look at our website www. waprobus.com

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

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

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

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

DARTFORD GYMNASTICS 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 Becket Sport Centre, first lesson free. For more info, visit www.ydma.club or find us on Facebook, search for Yamato Damashii Martial Arts.

Yoga with Emma “YOGA WITH EMMA Europa Gymnastics Centre: - Wednesdays: Hatha Yoga – 9.30am to 10.30am - Fridays: Hatha Yoga – 9.30am to 10.30am - Fridays: Yin Yoga – 10.45am to 11.45am Becket Sports Centre: - Fridays: Hatha Yoga – 7.00pm to 8.00pm

Please see www.samadhi-yoga.co.uk for more information or email Emma at emma@samadhi-yoga.co.uk“

KENT EXILES AMERICAN FOOTBALL CLUB www.kentexiles.co.uk. Coach Martin - 07944 730634. All ages from 7 years to adult welcome

ENERGY FITNESS AND NUTRITION I run group fitness classes as well as 1-1 and semi private personal training sessions in Darenth at Dimples Day Nursery DA2 7HT. ENERGY Fitness & Nutrition: we offer a wide variety of group classes such as strength & conditioning, boot camps, Boxercise, mum and baby classes, inside and outside classes with great equipment and suitable for all abilities. The website is www.energyfitnut.co.uk HARTLEY SWIMCLUB AT WHITE OAK POOL, SWANLEY We are a friendly group of adults who meet for a social swim every Thursday at 9pm. We’re looking for new members. Why not give us a try? Contact Diane on 01689 871846 or join us one Thursday. the Dance Studio. We have an adult class 8-10pm too. We’ve been running for 20 years, building confidence, teaching self-defence, hardening the target, developing skills and always welcome new members.

DARTFORD ORIENTEERING CLUB For more details see www.dfok.co.uk

HOP LIKE IT’S HOT A fun (different) circuit based workout with space hoppers that challenges core stabilty, balance and strength. It is suitable for all levels and abilities. Classes are held every Wednesday evening at the stone pavilion starting at 8:15 until 9:00 costing £5 per person.

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

WAR GAMES AND MODEL CLUB Based in Erith we have a wide number of members from across SE London and Kent. A great place to come and have a game, make, paint and hobby! Or, if you prefer, come grab a cup of tea and chat about all things hobby and some things not! For more info visit - https:// emperors10th.wixsite.com/home

DARTFORD PARKRUN Dartford parkrun is a free to enter 5k run every Saturday morning starting by the Dartford harriers track in Central Park at 9am. All participants get a time a position emailed and texted after the event. To register go to www.parkrun.org.uk. Remember to bring your printed Barcode. Every Sunday Morning in the Park there is a Junior parkrun over 2k.

FOOTSCRAY MEADOW PARKRUN A new Parkrun event with parking at Crazy Barn

Dartford and we share our headquarters at Hesketh with Dartford Cricket Club. We cater for most abilities and have a social ride most Saturday mornings. For info on joining us please visit our website www.seedscycling.co.uk

DARTFORD AND WHITE OAK TRIATHLON CLUB We are the local British Triathlon Federation Club covering Bexley, Dartford and Swanley. We offer coached swimming sessions 3 times per week at White oak pool in Swanley and Fairfield pool in Dartford. Our members compete in many local Triathlons plus many members are training towards Iron Man distance. We also have our own Triathlon in June every year which has been running since 1989. If you are interested in joining us then please visit our website http://www.dartfordandwhiteoaktri.co.uk

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

DARTFORD HARRIERS ATHLETICS CLUB Dartford Harriers is among the leading athletics clubs in Kent, with a history stretching back to the 1920′s, making it one of the oldest clubs in the country. If you are interested in seeing how we can help you advance your Athletics then please visit our website http://www.dartfordharriersac.co.uk

CENTRAL PARK ATHLETICS CLUB We are situated in Dartford’s outstanding Central Park and can provide access to a state of the art running track (re-laid in 2015) and the full range of track and field facilities for just £4.50 per session (we offer discounted annual memberships). Refreshments and changing facilities are also available. For no extra charge, we hold coached track sessions on Wednesday evenings for runners of all abilities.

This is a tough but very popular way to increase your stamina and running technique, and you’ll be in the company of qualified coaches and some of the friendliest runners around. For more information please visit our website centralparkathletics.co.uk 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.

DARTFORD BOCCIA CLUB Boccia is a Paralympic Sport similar to Pétanque or Boules. It is played in a seated position therefore ideal for disabled or non-disabled persons to play together.

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

DARTFORD & DISTRICT PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY. We are a long-established camera club meeting fortnightly at Stone Pavilion. We have an exciting programme of speakers, competitions, practical evenings and would welcome new members with or without photographic experience to our friendly meetings. You can attend several meetings as a guest before taking out membership which enables you to become a fully-fledged member and enter competitions. Our website is dartphoto.org. uk. We have a spacious hall which enables us to meet “socially distanced” in the present environment. We hope to meet you soon.

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

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

Partners: Mike Perry and John Petherick

DIRECTORY OF LOCAL BUSINESSES ADVERTISING IN DARTFORD LIVING

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

HOME IMPROVEMENTS The Double Glazing Repair Man Well Polished Avant Garde Garden Design Steve Cook- Double Glazing Excel Security Claremont Decorative Services

RELIGIOUS SERVICES Crossways Community Church

COUNCIL SERVICES Dartford Borough Council

MEMBERS OF PARLIAMENT Gareth Johnson

ESTATE/LETTING AGENTS Fox Estates Wisdom Estates

FLORISTS Dartford Florist

GARAGES/VEHICLE SERVICES Orchard Garage

CARE PROVIDERS Anchor Foster Care Home Instead

HEALTH AND WELLBEING Slimming World McQueen’s Pharmacy Dartford Road Dental Centre

BUSINESS SERVICES Nucleus 15 39 59 OPTICIANS Linklaters

PICTURE FRAMING Craft Frames

4 6 17 33 37 55 PRINTERS Dartford Print and Design

RESTAURANTS, CAFES, FOOD OUTLETS The Brook Efes

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37 EDUCATION Dartford Primary Academy Leigh UTC Swim Kidz Dartford Music School Gain Education Baby Sense My Bluewater Tutor

9 19 CHARITABLE ORGANISATIONS YMCA Valley Park Radio New Life Christian Coommunity Foodbank

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7 11 41 LEISURE/ENTERTAINMENT Bexley Park Comedy Orchard Theatre YDMA Karate DAODS

TRAVEL Harden Holidays Golden Leas Holiday Park

RETAIL The Bed Post Wild Little Rose Bradleys Jewellers

THINKING OF ADVERTISING?

We offer amazing value advertising with adverts starting from just £40 for a month. We don’t just take your money and add you to the magazine. We want to work with you to promote your businesses as much as we can using our website and social media channels for maximum exposure. We can also provide advertising options solely online on your website and/ or social media channels. We feel we have every base covered.

To book in an advert call 01322 507817 or email sales@dartfordliving.com

David Shafford Magazine/ Website Design and Sales

YOUR NEXT DEADLINE IS 15TH MARCH 2022

www.dartfordliving.com

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.

LOCAL AND NATIONAL

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

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

HEALTH Darent Valley Hospital 01322 428100 Dartford East Health Centre 01322 421480 Boots Chemist Bluewater 01322 624780 (Late Night) ASDA Greenhithe Chemist 01322 374100 (Late Night) The National Pandemic Flu Service 0800 1513 100 West Kent NHS helpline 0800 0 850850

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

HELPLINES 24 Hour Kent Dementia Helpline: 0800 500 3014 Alcoholics Anonymous: 08457 697 555 Citizens Advice Bureau: 01322 472 979 Debt Councilling (CAP) 0800 328 0006 Information About Drugs - FRANK: 0800 776600 Kent Homophobic Incident Reporting Line: 0800 328 9162 Kent Racial Incident Reporting Line: 0800 138 1624 Local Breastfeeding Counsellors Judianne/Paula 01322 224072 National Domestic Violence Helpline (24 hour) 0808 2000 247 NSPCC Child Protection Helpline: 0808 800 5000 RSPCA Kent, North West Branch Helpline 01322 286720 Samaritans: 116 123

LOCAL MP Gareth Johnson 020 7219 7047 Dartford Volleyball Club Graham - 01322 275290 or 07984 106134.

Stone Lodge Indoor Bowling Club 01322 274111.

VCD Table Tennis Club Eric Jenkins - 0208 3038312.

‘Play & pay’, 9 hole, par 3 golf course on Dartford Football Club’s Princes Park- Contact: 01322 299990 www.dartfordfc.com LOCAL SPORTS CLUBS Bexley Rugby Club 01322 550142 or www.pitchero.com/clubs/ bexleyrfc/ Dartford Ladies Hockey Club Dawn Hall (Secretary) 07793 777250 Dartford Ju Jitsu Club Mondays, Dartford Girls Grammar School, Shepherds

Lane. 6.30-8.00 Juniors, 8.00-10.00 Seniors www. dartfordjujitsu.co.uk Dartford Sharks Basketball Club Tim Dickson - 07855 692527.

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

Protection

Call Brian Downton, Dartford’s Protection Champion for:

Life Cover - In the event of your death, a life insurance plan can protect those dependent on your income while you were alive.

Critical Illness cover – In the event of a serious illness, money paid out can be used to pay for life changing adjustments or just replace the income you may have lost through being ill. Income Protection – You will receive a monthly payment to replace your personal income, should you be unable to work through sickness or injury. Accident Protection – This provides a tax free lump sum in the event of a specified accidental injury. Particularly useful for amateur sports players and health service workers.

General Insurance – We can help with residential buildings and contents insurance, landlord’s insurance, insurance for high net worth clients and private medical insurance.

Download your Protection Guide

Downton & Ali Associates

0203 0210075 info@downtonandali.co.uk