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Dartford LIVING The Feel Good Magazine Serving Dartford and Surrounding Areas
• Dartford • Bexley • Crayford • Darenth • Gravesend • Greenhithe • Longfield • Northfleet • Swanley • Wilmington
MAY 2012
Issue 71
Win Orchard Theatre Tickets See Page 27
Community Payback See Page 11
EllenorLions Every Little Helps See Page 19
PLUS All your
regular features, puzzles, events, information and much, much more!
THE ONLY WAY IS DARTFORD!
‘The Only Way Is Essex’ stars Sam Faiers and James ‘Arg’ Argent visit Bluewater See Page 16
Main Photo: Pablo Goicoechea Perez
Delivered FREE each month to thousands of homes and businesses
DARTFORD BUSINESS CENTRE Providing a full service to Dartford Small Businesses through Conradi Morrison & Co. Chartered Accountants
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PAYLINE
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“A Hand Holding Service”
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Dear Readers,
You’ll have found that May’s Dartford Livin g is a little more ‘Essex’ than ‘Kent’ than usual! The Only Way Is Essex has finally found itself on the front cover of Dartford Living! On a more serious note, turn to page 11 to read about Community Payback, punishment which sees individuals payin g back to the Dartford community for their crimes. EllenorLions is an amazing local charity. Read the touching article by a local student on page 19. Are you aged between nice and 19 and love the theatre? If you are, The Orchard Theatre is looking for 250 youngsters who wish to take part in the classi c production of Annie, see page 35! If you’re a pet lover, read the fascinating article on page 22 about allergy in pets. On page 25 read about the great work of Kent Fire and Rescue Service and pick up a few fire safety tips, especially if you use a chip pan. On page 26 we start a new series of articles written by a Dartford Living reade r who actually lives in Shenyang, northeast of China! What is love? Read the article page 29 and let us know your thoughts! What on should we really eat for breakfast? Local Personal Trainer, Mark Broadbent, tells us on page 37.
Our regular Tips for Small Businesses featur e on page 14 offers advice and a review of the budget earlier in the year. ‘The Secre Diary of a School Run Mum’ is another regula t r feature on page 39! Dartford Living is also packed full of the usual favourites including travel, gardening, sport, fitness, cars and charity events. There is our usual comp etition to win tickets to the Orchard Theatre on page 27! The ‘Where to Go Local ly’ section has recently expanded again and is now on pages 6 to 9. It includes lots of new activities and events to get involv ed in locally. Please remember that we run Dartford Livin g alongside members of the local community FOR the local community. Dartford Living is YOUR magazine, the only indep endently run community magazine servin g the local area with information, fun, good news and positive local stories! Feel free to get in touch if you would like to write an article for the magazine. If writing is for you then perhaps you could volunteer not 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! We deliver to thousands of homes and busin esses in the local area, however if you don’t receive a copy directly through your door, you can pick up a copy from variou s drop off points across the local area. These include the Dartford Branch of Waitrose, Dartford Football Club, numerous local libraries (including Ashen Drive, Dartford, Crayford, Fleet Estate, Swanley and Temp Hill), David Lloyd Health Club, What If... le Gallery and various health centres! The ‘Prev ious Editions’ section of the Dartford Living website (www.dartfordliving.com) also includes electronic versions of Dartfo rd Living magazine. Additionally, if you email editor@dartfordliving.com we will add you to our newsletter email mailing list and contact you once a month with an electronic copy of Dartford Living! Please remember to mention Dartford Livin g when contacting our advertisers featured in the magazine. If you run a local business and would like to discuss adver tising, or own a restaurant or pub and would like to be featured, please contact us. Samantha is on hand to help with the desig n of adverts for our advertisers and you can find our rates on our website. When you advertise in the paper copy of Dartford Livin g Magazine your advert is also seen online on our website and via search engines, Facebook and Twitter!
Until next time, Vijay
(and Samantha, Abdel, Bhavesh, Dhiren, Kelly , Tailia, Ken, Annie, Mark, Vanessa and the rest of the Dartford Living team)
Dartford Living, PO Box 283, Dartford, Kent, DA1 9BW Tel: 01322 507817 Advertising & Editorial - Contact Vijay: editor@dartfordliving.com Sales and Design - Contact Samantha: sales@dartfordliving.com www.dartfordliving.com Add us on Follow us on Twitter
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Index of Advertisers and Information Your quick guide to everyone and everything in your Dartford Living Magazine
Advertisers Accountants and FINANCIAL
Conradi Morrison & Co.........................2 Lynton & Co......................................... 24 Nick Warrell.......................................... 40
Builders, Decorators & Roofing 4k Building Services............................. 39 A Baines & Son Roofing....................... 31 Brambles............................................... 29 Claremont Decorative Services............. 32 John Hargreaves Building & Home Improvment................................ 24 MNS Carpentry..................................... 23 P Clark................................................... 33 Sealtite Windows.................................. 17 Cleaning Services Bone Dry............................................... 11 Cleaning Doctor.................................... 34
Cosmetic & Beauty Services C Mayhew - Chiropodist......................... 4 Inspirations Hair & Beauty................... 16
Lesley Charles Hairdresser................... 26 Skin....................................................... 21 DENTAL SURGERIES Heath Dental Practice........................... 11 smiledartford......................................... 32
Education Birtley House Independent School....... 12 Kip McGrath......................................... 28 Kumon Centre....................................... 28 La Marelle French School..................... 28 Electricians AES Electricians..................................... 4 Food & Drink Waitrose................................................ 20 Garages & Vehicle Services E.C. Bate............................................... 15 Shenley Road Garage........................... .21 HOME CARE Here2Care............................................. 13 Jewellers Bradleys................................................ 27 LOCKSMITHS Access Denied....................................... 29 Music/Dance & SPORTS/Fitness Dartford Bootcamps.............................. 38
DJ for Hire............................................ 37 Monkey Music...................................... 10 Piano & Flute Tuition............................. 5 Opticians Linklater Opticians................................ 36 Pet & Garden aPeeling Gardens.................................... 4 Pet & Garden Supplies.......................... 22 Pilgrims Vet Clinic................................ 23 Picture Framing Craft Frames.......................................... 30 Plasterers Craig Baker........................................... 30 RLT Plastering...................................... 31 PlUMBERS Liquid Plumbing Solutions................... 18 T Broadbent Plumbing & Heating........ 21 Travel/Coach Service CC Travel.............................................. 10 Van Services & Removals F.D Transport........................................ 31 Man & Van.............................................. 9
ARTICLES & LOCAL INFOrmation
Around the World in 80 Words...................................................... 37 Automotive News.......................................................................... 34 Book Reviews................................................................................ 18 Contact Dartford Living................................................................... 3 Community Payback.......................................................................11 Cover Story - The Only Way is Dartford....................................... 16 Fire Safety...................................................................................... 25 DTAC Wins Top Award................................................................. 38 Editor’s Letter.................................................................................. 3 EllenorLions Article....................................................................... 19 Fitness Article................................................................................ 36 From China With Love - Part 1...................................................... 26 Gardening Tips............................................................................... 33 It’s Your Letters.............................................................................. 35 Make More TIme For You............................................................. 10 Orchard Theatre Competition........................................................ 27 Pet’s Corner.................................................................................... 22 Secret Diary of a School Run Mum............................................... 39 Sporting Comment......................................................................... 24 Sudoku........................................................................................... 30 Sudoku Solution............................................................................. 38 Summer Youth Project - Annie...................................................... 35 Tips for Small Businesses.............................................................. 14 Useful Numbers............................................................................. 37 What is Love.................................................................................. 29 Where To Go Locally................................................................... 6 -9
PIANO & FLUTE TUITION • Experienced/ qualified teacher • CRB checked • For hobby or graded exams • Good rates
Tel: 01322 293364
Interested in advertising? Tel: 01322 507817 www.dartfordliving.com
5
Where to go locally... Mondays
...local events, clubs & groups
Parent & Toddler Groups (Term Time)
1:15pm - 2:30pm. Brent Methodist Church, St Vincents Road, Dartford. 01322 291092. 9:15am - 11:00am. St Anselms Church Community Centre, Dartford. Contact Julie on activities for 2-5 year olds. St Mary’s Messy Makers:10am-11am, and 3.45pm-4.45pm - an hour of messy play and creative email messymakers@gmail.com. or 150593 07851 child. per £3.50 . Greenhithe Church Hall, London Road, Greenhithe
Tuesdays
9.30am-11am. Christchurch, Crossroad, Dartford. Contact Catherine on 01322 220036. snacks and drinks. Karen Ruby: 01322 272649. Little Fishes: 12 - 2pm, Emmanuel Church, East Hill, Dartford. £2 per family including all 288434 for further information. (01322) on us call Please Dartford. Street, Hythe 66 Army, Salvation The 9.30am -11.30am. children For pre school children up to 4 years the for time snack Sticky Fingers, 9.30-11.30 am £1.50 per adult includes tea ,biscuits and healthy greenhithe.com St Mary Greenhithe Church hall London Road Greenhithe. Contact 01322 382031 or see www.stmary
Wednesdays
- 3 years, 10-11.30am Springfield Lodge Day Nursery Swanscombe - Fun Playtime sessions, 0 01322 389181. a chance to meet other families and make new friends, no need to book, just turn up! TEL: for further information. 288434 (01322) on us call Please Dartford. Street, Hythe 9.30am -11.30am. The Salvation Army, 66
Thursdays
430244 9:45 - 11:30am. The Vineyard Centre, 24 Market St, Dartford. Contact Jane on 07956 9:30 - 11:30am. St Paulinus Church Hall, Manor Road, Crayford. 277661. 9:45 - 11:30am. The Meeting Hall, Broomhill Road, Dartford. £1 per family. Contact 01322 years, 3 0 sessions, Playtime Fun D DARTFOR Nursery 10-11.30am. Springfield Lodge Day 01322 228154 a chance to meet other families and make new friends, no need to book, just turn up! TEL:
Fridays
adult 9.30-11am Baby and me for expectant mothers and mothers / carers of chidren up to 2. £1 per greenhithe.com St Mary Greenhithe Church Hall, London Road Greenhithe. Contact 01322 382031 or see www.stmary jeannahoadley@yahoo.co.uk 380322 01322 Jeanne Greenhithe. Rd, Place Stone Hall, Church 9.30-11.30 Carer & Toddler Group, St Mary’s
Saturdays
includes healthy snack time for the children. Daddy and Me 9.30.-11.30am A group for dads and male carers of children up to 5years. £1.50 greenhithe.com St Mary Greenhithe Church Hall, London Road Greenhithe. Contact 01322 382031 or see www.stmary
Toddler Music & Rhyme Sessions
MONDAY Jo Jingles Music and Movement classes, Holy Trinity Church Hall, High Street, Dartford. Booking needed - phone Gill on 01474 322123.Other days/venues available. Monday 10:30am - 11:00am & Friday 2:15pm - 2:45pm at Dartford Library - Baby Bounce & Rhyme Time Tuesdays 2 sessions, from 9.30-10.30am and 10:45 - 11:45am in Fleetdown FC Hall; Heath Lane, Dartford. Contact Judi: 07970 730736. ALSO RUN SAME PLACE/TI ME ON THURSDAYS Tuesdays 10.30m - 11.00am (term time only) at Ashen Drive Library - Baby Bounce and Rhyme session. Tel: 08458 247 247. Thursday From Thurs 8th Sept (term time only) we will be holding 2 sessions 10.15am & 11am Crayford Rd, Crayford, DA1 4ER. Tel: 020 8303 7777. Also: Coffee and Chat sessions at Temple Hill Library on the First Tues of the month 10am - 12noon.
Dartford Art Group
We meet every Thursday evening from 7.30 - 9.30pm. We meet at the Adult Education Cen tre in Summerhill Road Dartfor d DA1 2LP and the cost to belo ng is just £20 per year. For further enquiries please contact ruthghowar d@aol. com or ring 01322 273405
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Little Bright Sparks fun literacy and numeracy classes for pre-schoolers Thursdays 11.00 in West Kingsdown £5 per class 07768 447657. Singalong Baby Sign classes held in West Kingsdown Thursdays and Eynsford Fridays 9.45 £5 per class 07768 447657
Please mention Dartford Living when contacting our advertisers
Stone Cross Youth Club
Meet every other Tuesday 6pm- 8pm. St Mary’s Church Hall, Stone Place Rd, Greenhithe. Jeanne 01322 380322
Would you like to promote a local activity on the “Where to go locally...” page? If so email your suggestions to editor@dartfordliving.com Fairfield (Dartford) WI
2nd Tuesday of every month, Dartford Girls’ Grammar School, 7:30pm. Contact Judith on 01322 278703
Beavers/Scouts
Columbine China Paintyers
rsda meet on the 2nd and 4th Thu Hone of every month in Sutton at pm. A Crayford Women’s Institute Village Hall. 1.30pm to 4.30 rsday Thu 4th the on 1st Thursday of every month at 1.45pm. us Tutor is with ops’ with Baker Trust Hall. Maxim Road, Crayford and we also have ‘worksh e (near Sainsburys). Contact Secretary, Tutors on Saturdays. For mor 01322 on n Jean Monk 01322 557142 uree Ma information call 707357. 287214, Doreen on 01474 Friendly Marie 01474 704581. Very Club for all. Scrappy Days! A scrapbookin g group is being held Dental Practice at Hawley Pavilion, Hawley Road, Dartford, DA2 7RB on the 2nd Sunday of Gentle & Caring Dentistry the month between 2pm and 6:30pm. It costs 69 The Brent £6 which includes refreshments, nibbles and the use of a cricut (cutting 01322 220677 machine for those that don ’t know). Beginners are very welcome. Contact Mic helle on 07910 488428 or email scrappydays@hotm ail.co.uk
1st Dartford Beaver Scout Colony meets on Saturday mornings at the Scout Hall, Little Queen Street, Dartford, DA1 1TL. If you are 6 or 7 years old pop along for a free taster session at 10.30am any Saturday. Contact Jackie Watson 01322 403073 or watson. jackie@sky.com
smiledartford
Dartford Quilters meet on the 2nd Saturd ay of each month at the Mick Jagger Centre, Shepherds Lane, Dartford. We run a varied progra mme of activities suitable for the beginner throug h to the more experienced quilter. More details can be obtained from the club secretary on 01474 834872
WEST HILL MORRIS - your local side Come along and enjoy the traditional English Morris Dance. It’s fun, keeps you fit and is very sociable. The side is mixed and includes both musicians and dancers. We practice in Bexley Village every other Tuesday evening from October to May and from May onwards throughout the summer we dance out at pubs, clubs and fetes. For further information contact Beryl or Alan on 01322 224793.
Learn To Jive
Every Tuesday at 8.30pm at The Mick Jagger Centre, Shepherds Lane, Dartford, DA1 2JZ. £7 per session. Visit www.jiveafter5. co.uk for more information *** First lesson disco unt if you mention Dartford Living ***
Sign Singalong Baby d start in
give your child a hea are held in communication. Classes days 9.45 West Kingsdown on Thurs For more £5. 5 and Eynsford Fridays 9.4 term ber tem sep the information about 657 447 68 077 on cy Tra please call
Learn Karate with Hyo Gen Do Tuesdays at Joydens Wood Junior School - 6:15pm (kids age 5-16) & 7pm (adults) and Saturdays at Becket Sports Centre - 9am (kids) & 11am (adults) Beginners always welcome.
Dartford Floral Club
DARTFORD U3A
(University of the Third Age) Charity No 1076584
Pleasure from Leisure Learning A monthly general meeting is held on the second Wednesday each month (except August) at Christchurch Hall, Christchurch Road, Dartford from 2-4 pm for retired people, who would like to meet and possibly develop new horizons. For further information, contact our membership secretary, Sandy Layson on 01322 409129 or visit our website www.u3asites.org. uk/dartford
Demonstrations held the 3rd Friday of every month, 7;30pm in the Hawley Pavilion (opposite Papermaker’s Arms), Hawley road, Hawley, Dartford. Contact Norma on 01322 402504. The entry fee for a lovely evening of beautiful flowers is £5.00.
Dartford Beekeepers
Instruction course for anyone interested in Beekeeping, at Knockhall Community Primary School, Greenhithe Details on www.dbka-kent. com or phone 01322 225 887.
Monkey Music!
More than 10,000 babies and children regul arly Monkey Music and you can book your FREE attend classes at class now. Join us at: - Hurst Community Centre, Bexley (Tues day mornings) - Baptist Church, Eynsford (Thursday morn ings) - KTB Pilates & Physiotherapy, Dartford (Friday mornings). Fun, age-specific, classes for children (3mth s - 4 years). To book call: 01322 862021 or Email: bexle y.dartford@monkeymusic.co.uk.
Interested in advertising? Tel: 01322 507817 www.dartfordliving.com
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Where to go locally... Yoga & Meditation Classes
Every Thursday from 10.30am to 12.00pm at Peppercorns, 3 Orchard Street, Dartford, Kent, DA1 2DF. For more information please call Hope on 07905914558.
Dartford Ladies Probus Club
A group of retired ladies meet locally for lunch on the 4th Wednesday of each month, paying £13 each. They raise funds for charity and usually invite a speaker. Join them and enjoy meeting and making new friends. If you would like more information please contact Iris (Secretary) on 01474 703448
Local Libraries
Dartford Library Opening Hours: Mon to Wed 8.30am - 6.00pm, Thurs 8.30am - 8.00pm, Fri 8.30am - 6.00pm, Sat 9:00am to 5:00pm Ashen Drive Library Opening Hours: Mon 2.00pm - 6.00pm, Tue 9.00am - 1.00pm, Thurs 2.00pm - 6.00pm, Fri 9.00am -1.00pm, Sat 10.00am - 2.00pm Temple Hill Library Opening Hours: Mon, Tues, Thurs and Fri 9.00am - 6.00pm, closed Wed & open Sat 10.00am - 2.00pm
LATE NIGHT CHEMISTS BOOTS BLUEWATER: 01322 624780
OPEN MON – SAT 9am TILL MIDNIGHT. SUN 11am TIL 5pm
ASDA GREENHITHE: 01322 374100
OPEN MON-SAT 8.30am TILL 10pm. SUN 11am TIL 5pm 8
...local events, clubs & groups
North West Kent Family History Society The Dartford
Branch meet at the Technology College, Heath Lane, For more information see www.nwkfhs.org.uk
Crayford Town Archive
incorp. Barnehurst and Slade Green. Meet every Tuesday (except the third Tuesday) of the month at Crayford Library hall - 2pm-4pm Call in for a chat about old Crayford and to view the large collection of local images, or bring your own for us to copy.
The Rotary Club of the North Downs
They meet at the Holiday Inn, Black Prince, Thursday evenings 7:30pm for 7:45pm for Dinner and fellowship. For details phone 07759 863836.
UNA Dartford Branch
The National UK United Nations Association exist for those interested in the work of the United Nations which was formed in 1945, their Website is: www.una.org.uk The Dartford and District Branch has been in existence since 1946. Contact either S.Thompson on sathomps@aol.com or B. Judge on 01322 271272 for details.
Dartford Central Townswomen’s Guild meet at
Christchurch Hall, Christchurch Road, on the second Tuesday of each month at 2.15pm. Contact the secretary on 01322 271181 for more information.
Swanley Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Centre (SUMS, Swanley Unit for MS)
Coffee Mornings, every 1st Tuesday of the month 10.30 -1-00pm. Come for a chat over coffee and cake. More Info tel: 01322 663042
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
Please mention Dartford Living when contacting our advertisers
Would you like to promote a local activity on the “Where to go locally...” page? If so email your suggestions to editor@dartfordliving.com
MUSIC UMBRELLA
Classes for under-fives teaching the basic elements of music through whole body movement, using the Dalcroze and Kodaly methods. With action songs and games, using percussion instruments and props like hoops, balls and soft toys, the children develop musical, physical and social awareness, concentration, co-ordination and confidence - and have lots of fun! Mick Jagger Centre, Tuesdays during term time : toddlers 1.20-2 pm; 3-5 years 2-2.40 pm; babies 2.40-3.20 pm. Contact Myrtle : 07763 378451 Email : myrtlebm@hotmail.co.uk
Dartford Bellringers Holy Trinity
Church, High Street, Wednesdays 8.00-9.30p.m. Free tuition with a very friendly, sociable group. The ideal way to make new friends. Phone Ester 01322 220458 or email: esther.correia1@btinternet.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 08454 500 287 and ask about the Dartford group.
Local Sports Clubs
Bexley Rugby Club 01322 550142 or www. bexleyrfc.co.uk
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, 8.0010.00 Seniors.1st session free 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 site, managed by the Club. Members subscribing annually to play the course have formed themselves into a small golf club:- PRINCES PARK GOLF CLUB Contact: Mr. Pat Coleman, Secretary 01322 863730. pat. coleman@dartford.gov.uk
The Ashes Badminton Club
Mondays, Dartford Technology College, Heath Lane. 7.30-9.30. Jacqui 07764 182854.
The West Kent Book Club meets once a month on Saturday mornings at Dartford Library. For more information, please call 07860 963333 or find us at www.meetup.com/West-Kent-Book-Club/
MAN & VAN
• HOUSE / FLAT REMOVALS • RUBBISH CLEARANCE • WASTE LICENCE CARRIER • FREE ESTIMATES
Daytime: 07966 421705 Evening: 01322 277366
Interested in advertising? Tel: 01322 507817 www.dartfordliving.com
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Make More Time For You! Advertorial By Dartford resident Annabelle
I don’t know about you, but my life is hectic! I commute to work in London from Dartford station from Monday to Friday. I leave home every day at 6.30am and I don’t get home from work until nearly 8pm. Then it’s time to cook dinner and make an attempt to force myself to the gym! At the weekend I always seem to have commitments to family or friends... When do I have time to clean?
C C TRAVEL Day Trips
Thursday 24th May Herne Bay Lunch Included...........£26.00 Sunday
10th June Wroxham & River Cruise.............£29.00
Thursday 21st June Eastbourne Lunch Included..........£27.50
That’s when I turned to looking for a cleaner in Dartford Living Magazine and found Time For You Domestic Cleaning... I was assured by the fact that all cleaners are reference checked and now I have a cleaner for a couple of hours a week. It’s not a lot of cost for a lot of extra free time to spend on myself. I don’t have to stress about the vacuuming, cleaning the bathroom or even polishing and dusting!
Thuursday 19th July Broadstairs Lunch Included..........£28.00
Whether you are a busy mum, a city worker or even someone older who struggles with physical ailments, I’d recommend giving a cleaner a go. Wouldn’t we all like an honest, dependable and affordable police checked cleaner to clean our home?
Blackpool 14th -18th Oct Half Board and Excursion......£225.00
Time For You cleaners can be contacted on 0800 458 1127/01474 338729 or north-kent@timeforyou.co.uk. Cleaners typically cost £9.95 per hour.
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Sunday
5th August Great Yarmouth..............................£23.00
Short Breaks
Liverpool 14th - 17th May Culture and Music................£195.00 Stratford 7th -8th July River Cruise & Dinner.............£129.00 Torquay 7th -10th December Tinsel & Turkey............£215.00
For Further Details Ring:
01322 221739
Please mention Dartford Living when contacting our advertisers
Last year individuals on Community Payback in Kent completed more than 1⁄4 million hours for the benefit of charities, schools, councils and resident groups. Community Payback is a punishment which sees individuals paying back the community for their crimes. The courts can sentence a person to undertake between 40 and 300 hours, combining it with other sentencing options such as Probation supervision, programmes or a curfew.
S
The mo ROOFING CommunityMSB Payback CLEANING E
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Age Concern. Kent Probation provides transport to service users who attend. We currently have spaces to join the lunch club where can enjoy a Sunday roast dinner. If youSOLVED are 50 years FLATyou ROOFING PROBLEMS PERMANENTLY + and are interested in joining then please call 07976488790. The centre opens on a Sunday 10am-2pm and lunch is • Optional High Performance served at 12.15pm. There is a smallAvailable fee to cover the cost of Systems ingredients. Transport can be provided to those who need it. • Insurance Backed Guarantees • Consumer Protection Association Approved Member.
and
C A
• • •P Other services include: Slating, Tiling, Leadwork, Chimneys, Gutters, • Co Repairs and Renewals.
Kent Probation organises the work to take place in the community the work can range from rubbish removal work to painting and decorating community facilities. In North Kent teams have recently begun reviving allotments at Cedar Road for local learning disability charities and community groups. The allotments have become overgrown and disused. Individuals are NO JOB TOO SMALL removing nettles, soil and putting in new fences. Full Public Liability Insurance No Obligation Quotation Further work has seen Community Payback teams maintaining
DRY OR MSB ROOFING CARPET C S E R V I C E S
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C H A RT E R E D AC C O U N TA N T S Jeskyns Community Woodlands for the benefit of its 200,000 AND REGISTERED AUDITOR Mike visitors. The teams have cut back hedges, cleared ponds, FLAT ROOFING PROBLEMS PERMANENTLYContact SOLVED accountancy removed ragwort, picked up litter and raised garden beds. The 01474 813122Aandcomplete taxation service for: • Optional High Performance work is important to the wildlife and natural environment. www.msbroofing.co.uk • New business • Companies • Partnerships Systems Available
• Insurance Backed Guarantees Meopham Based • Consumer Protection Association Approved Member.
At the weekends, individuals pay back by cooking up a two course dinner for elderly users at the Northfleet Lunch Club at
Z
• Sole traders • Individuals
Ash
Other services include: Slating, Tiling, Leadwork, Chimneys, Gutters, Repairs and Renewals.
• Personal tax • Assistance with self-assessment • PAYE issues • Payroll service • Fully computerised • Electronic lodgement of returns • Compatible with popular computer software packag
The most thoroug Bone-Dry CLEANING ever seen
NO JOB TOO SMALL Full Public Liability Insurance No Obligation Quotation Contact Mike
For a free initial consultation, plus a flexible personal service at competitive rates, call:
and it’s DRY C Donald MacLeod FCA, FCCA
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01474 813122 will: • Deep clean and remove Our system
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Meopham Based
Tel/Fax: 01474 879399 e-mail: portlocks@btconnect.com
Ash House, matted Ash Road, New Ash Green, Kent DA3 8J soil & spots • Lift and revive carpet 42 www.townandcountrypost.c pile • Leave a clean, fresh scent • Reduce allergens • Leavethorough carpets dry and ready to use The most CARPET
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0800 0842520 01474 745995 Mob: 07950 443349 M www.bonedry.co.uk
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www.townandcountrypost.co.uk
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Website: www.here-2-care.co.uk Dartford Branch
17 The Brent, Dartford Kent DA1 1YD
Tel: 01322 225513
Rochester Branch
Suite 1-4, No 4 Castle News, Castle Hill, Rochester, Kent ME1 1LA
Tel: 01634 844495
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Tips for small businesses The Budget 2012
Each month Paul Conradi, Chartered Accountant at Conradi Morrison & Co, will be giving us his professional advice for small businesses.. By the time you read this article, you will have seen all the headline changes in the newspaper and noted that most of The Budget had been leaked prior to The Chancellor’s speech or the changes had been declared in the previous Budget. For small limited companies the tax rate for the year ended 31st March 2013 remains at 20% for profits up to £300,000. Although the headlines stated that Corporation Tax was decreasing, this mainly affects larger companies and it is very unlikely that the tax rate for smaller companies will decrease in the future. It is more likely that the higher rate of tax for large companies will decrease further to eventually reach 20%, so that all companies are taxed at the same rate. As we already knew, the annual investment allowance for businesses purchasing capital items was reduced from £100,000 per annum to £25,000 per annum. Businesses purchasing assets in the year 2012/2013 totalling of more than £25,000 will only obtain 100% tax relief on the £25,000 immediately and the balance will be placed in the business ‘pool’ and a writing down allowance of 18% will be able to be claimed on the balance. The most important part of The Budget was the consultation documents and the one in respect of VAT was of interest to many small businesses. The Chancellor confirmed that the zero rating of VAT on certain food, children’s clothes, printed books and newspapers would be retained. However, he stated that measures would be introduced to address certain VAT ‘loopholes.’ These measures specifically included:• To ensure that holiday caravans are taxed consistently at the standard rate of VAT.
listed buildings are zero rated for VAT, whilst the cost of alterations to other buildings and repair and maintenance to all buildings remain standard rated for VAT. • To remove the exemption from self-storage to ensure all storage suppliers receive the same VAT treatment. • To tax sports nutrition drinks to ensure that all sports nutrition drinks receive the same tax treatment. • To clarify the treatment of catering to ensure that all hot takeaway food is taxed as well as clarifying the meaning of ‘premises.’ Provision to implement the above will be introduced into The Financial Bill 2012 and it is intended that these changes will take effect from 31st October 2012. Finally in respect of VAT it should be noted that the threshold for registration increased from £73,000 to £77,000, whilst the deregistration threshold rises to £75,000 from £71,000. With the increase in personal allowances, the National Insurance contribution in employee’s earning threshold is no longer in line with the same. It is therefore important when voting Director’s remuneration to consider whether the Director wishes to pay National Insurance or not.
As your local Accountant, I will be very glad to meet you and discuss the possibility of tax planning in your business. For more information, please see page 2 of this month’s Dartford Living and feel free to call on 01322 278188 to arrange a free meeting.
• To put beyond doubt the fact that VAT applies to the rental of hairdressers’ chairs. • To remove the anomaly whereby the charges for approved alterations to certain
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THE ONLY WAY IS DARTFORD Fans of The Only Way Is Essex were in for a treat recently at The Fragrance Shop, Bluewater. Sam and ‘Arg’ met with fans, to celebrate both TOWIE fragrances charting in the top 10 celebrity fragrances, just 6 months since the launch. Both Dazzle and Be Reem are battling it out at the top of the fragrance chart with Britney Spears, Rihanna and the Beckhams! Customers who purchased any fragrance or gift set from the TOWIE range were given the opportunity to have it signed and to have their photo taken with the Essex stars.
Models Required For Hairdressing & Beauty Therapy Treatments Come and experience a wide range of hairdressing and beauty therapy treatments in our fantastic salon facilities at North West Kent College, at prices you cannot afford to miss. All trainees work under the guidance and instruction of our fully qualified trainers and assessors, and appointments are available at both Dartford and Gravesend campus.
If you wish to book appointments at Oakfield Lane, Dartford - please call 01322 629501. If you wish to book appointments at Dering Way,Gravesend, please call 01322 629606 for Hairdressing or 01322 629602 for Beauty Therapy. 16
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The BOOK REVIEW by Jes Basra
Call the Midwife - by Jennifer Worth
Call the Midwife is an autobiographical account of a midwife named Jennifer Worth who worked in the East end of London in the 1950s. The book recounts the experiences she had in the role, and gives a harrowing description of the often unsanitary and dangerous conditions that many women found themselves in when giving birth. Working with local nuns, Worth tells of the living and working arrangements she was under as a London midwife, and introduces the reader to both colleagues and patients that stuck in her memory, throughout her career. Recently made into an incredibly popular BBC television series, Call the Midwife is a read that you will not forget.
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Of Mice and Men - by John Steinbeck
Written in the 1930s, Of Mice and Men is considered one of the great American classics. The story follows George and Lenny, two farm workers who are looking for work in California during the Great Depression. The book examines themes such as loneliness, discrimination, and the human condition. As we follow George and Lenny in their pursuit of the American Dream, we meet characters who are also looking for the same thing, as well as others who are looking to find their place in life. A moving and memorable tale of friendship and tragedy.
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EllenorLions - Every Little Helps to Make a Difference in Someone’s Life By Wilmington Grammar School for Girls student, Louisa-Grace Hurrell Did you know that 9 out of 10 people know, have known or will know someone who has received care from EllenorLions Hospices? They are preparing to launch their new campaign and need us to dig deep and help raise money. Means to an End, is an appeal to raise £1 million in 12 months, a pretty tough challenge. Due to the advancements in medical technology and people living longer, the nature of Hospice care is having to keep up and change accordingly. Not only this, but the demand for care at home is also increasing, with a diverse range of patients living with not only terminal cancer, but motor neurone disease, kidney failure, or heart and lung conditions, more and more specialist knowledge and care is needed. These people rely on charities like EllenorLions to support them for weeks, months or even years of their lives. After speaking to Tricia Wilcocks, Head of Care at EllenorLions, to understand more about the Means to an End appeal, she said “that every little helps to make a difference in someone’s life, supporting who could be, your relative, friend or neighbour” also adding that “we need you to think of how you can raise money in different, unique ways but have fun whilst doing it.” So let us work as a community to help meet their £1 million mark.
their patients. They have helped those in the local community for nearly three decades, not only dedicating themselves within the hospice, but outside too. EllenorLions support the patients and family in a variety of ways, providing a seamless medical service in the home with Palliative Care Nurse Specialists, or in the ward where 24 hour care is provided to manage symptoms. Relaxing therapeutic sessions, and a respite team offer a break to devoted relatives and carers. If EllenorLions did not already do enough, the Family Support Team are there to help the families and relatives through what can be a very difficult time, helping with more complicated care services, such as setting up Advance Care Plans including finances and funeral plans. Not only this, there is a team within Darent Valley, that work alongside the hospital staff, particularly with those who receive bad news or are just starting treatment. Starting with the first visit right through to bereavement EllenorLions is there throughout. The charity rely on the active interest and dedication of those that volunteer to train and work for the charity, these are the people we should admire and thank.
As a local charity that provide palliative care for adults during terminal illness across, Dartford, Gravesham and Swanley, along with chYps, the section of the charity solely for the care of terminally ill children, working within Bexley and Maidstone as well as the other areas of Kent. Both EllenorLions and chYps are supported solely by our help and donations, aiming to provide care where it is needed and support the choices of
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Shenley Road Garage
01322 229887
SAME DAY MOTs (Booking not always necessary)
• Tyres • Exhausts • Clutches • Timing Belt Changes • Petrol & Diesel Cars & Vans Welcome the Good Garage Scheme Garages you can trust. Be assured that every garage listed performs services to a strict standard and will always have your best interests at heart.
We have a wide range of cars for sale on our website:
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Pet’s Corner Itching and Allergy in Pets
The major types of allergy we see are:
The spring is now here and we are starting to see more and more itchy dogs and cats in the veterinary clinic. Coping with an itchy pet can be an extremely frustrating experience for the pet’s guardians, and can test the limits of the human-animal bond. The following information is intended to provide the pet owner with a basic understanding of the most common causes of itching and allergies. The common causes fall into two groups: external parasites and allergies. By parasites we principally mean fleas and mange; most vets will recommend a monthly flea control spot-on or tablet to help eliminate bugs as a cause of itching. Allergy is a state of hypersensitivity to a normally harmless substance which induces the body’s immune system to “overreact.” The incidence of allergies is increasing in both humans and their pets. People with allergies usually have “hay fever” or asthma. Dogs and cats commonly they experience the effects of allergy as skin problems. This can often be seen as redness and itching, recurring skin or ear infections, and hair loss. This is sometimes called eczema or atopy.
FREE DOG & CAT FOOD SAMPLES
In Association with Pilgrims Vets, see pg 13
Flea Allergy: Flea allergic dermatitis is the most common skin disease in cats. For the flea allergic patient, 100% flea control is essential for the pet to remain symptom-free. This is a lot easier than it sounds even monthly flea drops may not be enough to give complete control. Atopic Dermatitis: Atopy is an inherited predisposition to develop skin problems from exposure to variety of commonplace substances including the pollens of weeds, grasses and trees, as well as house dust mites and mold spores. Food Allergy: Some poor animals can be allergic to food as well. If you have an itchy dog that has good flea and mange control then you could try a change to a hypoallergenic dog food. If this does not help seek advice from your vet. Unfortunately, there is no cure for allergy and it is usually a life-long problem but your vet can help advise on control and minimising the itching. She/he will probably check your flea control programme, and may give antibiotics, shampoos and even steroids and advise on the best foods to try. This should make your pet comfortable and enable him to live a normal, long happy life. If you have any queries about you pet you would like answered let us know on dartford@pilgrimspets.co.uk
Pet & Garden Supplies
FREE LOCAL DELIVERY
148 Colney Road, Dartford - Tel : 01322 226330 Email: petandgardensupplies@o2.co.uk
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Open Now PROVIDING THE BEST QUALITY CARE FOR YOUR PETS... Brand New Veterinary clinic in Dartford town centre Come along and see our brand new premises For all aspects of pet care, pet supplies Open 7 days a week 8am to 7pm weekdays, 9am to 4pm Saturdays, 12am to 2pm Sundays
Tel: 01322 897 977 Enterprise House, Essex Road, Dartford, DA1 2AU (near Air and Breathe opposite Prospect Place Shopping)
www.dartfordvets.co.uk
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Bav’s Sporting Comment The head of the Saudi Olympic Committee has refused to bow to pressure from the International Olympic Committee to send female athletes as part of its team to the London 2012 Olympic Games. Prince Nawaf bin Faisal told a news conference that the Saudi Olympic Committee would not endorse any female participation but strangely said women could take part in the Games on their own, with the Olympic officials ensuring that their participation doesn’t violate Islamic sharia law.
Faisal’s comments appear to open the way for the International Olympic Committee to support and endorse some female Saudi participation, but if that occurred it would raise serious doubts about the value of the Saudi Olympic Committee.
The IOC has wanted the London Olympics to be the first Games where all 204 countries have women as part of their official delegation and had been in serious discussions with those who had never before sent women to the Games. This time Qatar has agreed to send female athletes, leaving just Brunei and Saudi Arabia as the only male only delegations.
Lynton & Co Accountants for Small and Medium Sized Businesses
• Payroll and CIS; Bookkeeping and Vat; • Sole Traders; Partnerships and Limited Companies; • Business Start Ups & Limited Companies • Personal & Business Tax • Sage Training for Accounts & Payroll The Base, Dartford Business Park, Victoria Rd, Dartford Kent, DA1 5FS Email:lyntonacc@aol.com
Tel: 01322 314786
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“We are not endorsing any Saudi female participation at the moment in the Olympics or other international championships,” Faisal said in Jeddah. “There are hundreds, if not thousands, of (Saudi) women who practice sports, but in private,” he said.
Upcoming events in MAY:
May 5 - FOOTBALL: Wembley: FA Cup final. May 9 - FOOTBALL: Bucharest: Europa League final. May 13 - MOTOR RACING: Barcelona: Spanish Grand Prix. May 17-21 - CRICKET: First Test, Lord’s: England v West Indies. May 18-20 - RUGBY UNION: Heineken Cup/Amlin Challenge Cup finals. May 19 - FOOTBALL: Munich: Champions League final. May 19 - FOOTBALL: Wembley: Championship play-off final. May 25-29 - CRICKET: Second Test, Trent Bridge: England v West Indies. May 26-27 - FOOTBALL: League One/Two play-off finals. May 27 - MOTOR RACING: Monte Carlo: Monaco Grand Prix. May 28-Jun 10 - TENNIS: Paris: French Open.
JOHN HARGREAVES Building & Home Improvement Services Wide range of building & home improvement services for the interior & exterior of your property.
• Brickwork • Carpentry •Painting • Decorating • Fencing • Decking • Patios • Tiling • General maintenance Friendly, reliable, local service. 30+ years of experience working in the construction industry. No job is too small.
CALL TODAY! 07957 195272 OR 01322 220562 After 6pm.
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Dartford firefighters are renewing warnings of using chip pans and leaving cooking unattended after a recent fire in Crawford Avenue in Dartford. Luckily the resident was alerted to the blaze at 5.22pm when she heard her smoke alarms sounding and called 999. When crews arrived on the scene they quickly removed the pan from the kitchen and extinguished the fire using a hose reel before ventilating the flat of smoke and fumes with a positive pressure ventilation fan. Watch Manager Dave Boakes who attended the incident said: “This is another example of how dangerous chip pans can be and we do advise people who regularly deep-fry food to invest in safer ways of cooking, such as an electric chip pan, which can’t overheat and are safer to use. Better still, dispose of your old fashioned chip pan and switch to a healthier alternative such as oven chips. “Don’t leave cooking unattended – turn off the heat if you leave the room. Remember fire starts when your attention stops. Unfortunately people still think a house fire is something that happens to other people, but the sad reality is fire can occur in anyone’s home - it could be you. Dave concluded: “Make sure you fit and regularly test smoke
alarms on every floor of your home. They really are the single most important piece of safety equipment in any home to help protect you and your family from the threat of fire.”
The following tips can help to keep your family and home safe from the potentially devastating effects of fire: • never fill a chip pan more than a third full of oil • pat food dry first as water makes oil sizzle up, which can be dangerous • if the oil starts to smoke don’t put the food in - turn off the heat and leave it to cool • fit smoke alarms on every floor of your home, and test the batteries regularly
If you have a chip pan fire: • don’t take risks by tackling a fire. Get out, stay out and call • never move the pan and never throw water over it • turn off the heat (if you can do so safely) and allow it to cool completely
Smoke Alarm Saves Another Life in Dartford A Dartford woman has her working smoke alarm and her neighbours to thank for recently saving her life a few weeks ago. The fire started in Laburnum Avenue just before 10.30pm when the lady fell asleep, leaving food cooking on her hob. The smoke alarm sounded and was heard by neighbours who phoned 999. Two fire engines from Dartford were sent to the property and fire fighters wearing breathing apparatus forced entry into the smoke-filled property and rescued the lady who was unhurt.
By following these tips you can keep you and your family safe from fires in the kitchen: * Stand by your pan! Never leave your cooking unattended. Remember that if you’re tired, taking strong medication or have been drinking, you’ll be more easily distracted and at risk * Turn saucepan handles so that they don’t stick out from the hob * Never fill a pan more than one third full of fat or oil. If the oil starts to smoke, do not begin cooking - remove from the heat and leave it to cool
Crews used a hose reel to extinguish the fire before clearing the smoke with a positive pressure ventilation fan.
* Keep the oven, hob and grill clean - a build up of fat and grease can easily catch fire
Watch Manager Lee Able said: “The response by the neighbours on hearing the smoke alarm sounding almost certainly saved this woman’s life.
* Fit smoke alarms on every floor of your home, and test the batteries regularly
“This incident highlights the importance of never leaving cooking unattended if you leave the room, turn the heat off. Luckily the woman was okay and the property suffered only smoke damage.”
* If there is a fire, get out, stay out and call the Fire and Rescue service Crews also visited neighbouring properties delivering fire safety advice. For free advice on fire safety call 0800 923 7000 or watch a cooking safety film at www. standbyyourpan.com.
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• FIRE SAFETY • FIRE SAFETY • FIRE SAFETY • FIRE SAFETY • FIRE SAFETY • FIRE SAFETY
Crews Tackle Dartford Chip Pan Fire
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From China with Love....
My name is Judy and I come from Shenyang, northeast of China. A translator and a writer, I have translated and published five books, the sixed one will be published in two months. I have also translated a teaching DVD of electronic commerce without subtitles, for college students. I enjoy reading English magazines and newspapers, particularly Dartford Living, which I find especially compelling and informative about local life in England! As an avid reader I felt it appropriate to contribute some articles to the magazine and it was an honour to do so! As I am Chinese, I would like to introduce the characters of one of the oldest languages in the world! Generally Chinese characters are called “Square-Block Characters” because of their unique pictorial shapes which entail multiple structures called bushous; occupying a more or less, square area. Today, the characters used by the mainland of China are the simple ones, and the spoken Chinese we call Mandarin. Mandarin is derived from the Beijing dialect as the standard pronunciation, with the Northern dialects as the basis, which is, in fact, the common language of the Han nationality. It has four pitched tones.
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Par t 1 Part 1 –C e –h Cin hineesse ChCahra ctcteers ara rs anadndTo Tonnee
N O I T I T E P M CO
Ticket Office
01322 220000 or www.orchardtheatre.co.uk
Horrible Histories - The Terrible Tudors and The Vile Victorians Tuesday 19th - Saturday 23rd June 2012
WE ALL WANT TO MEET PEOPLE FROM HISTORY - THE TROUBLE IS EVERYONE IS DEAD! So it’s time to prepare yourselves for Horrible Histories live on stage! Using actors and groundbreaking 3D special effects, these two astounding shows - Terrible Tudors and Vile Victorians - are guaranteed to thrill you and your children. Historical figures and events will come alive on stage and hover at your fingertips! Dartford Living and The Orchard have teamed up to offer 2 tickets to see Horrible Histories on Tuesday 19th June at 7:00pm. To be in with a chance of winning this fantastic prize just answer the following question...
Queen Victoria’s reign lasted for how many years? A) 100 B) 63 C) 36 D) 10 Please send your answer, name and telephone number (by 20th MAY) to:
orchardcompetition@dartfordliving.com or MAY Orchard Theatre Competition, Dartford Living, PO Box 283, Dartford, Kent, DA1 9BW 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. Proof of posting will not be regarded as proof of delivery. 5. Winners will be notified by telephone, within 5 working days of the competition being drawn. 6. Employees and the immediate families of participating companies are ineligible to enter. 7. Closing date for the competition is stated above.
APRIL COMPETITION WINNER: Kevin Appleton
60 Hythe Street Dartford DA1 1BX Tel: 01322 278535
148 Broadway Bexleyheath DA6 7DW Tel: 020 8298 1710
FORGET THE REST WE PAY THE BEST!
• Manufacturing Jewellers • In House Jewellery Repairs • Watch Batteries Fitted - All Types We Offer On All Unwanted Gold, Stone Set Jewellery • While You Wait Service (wherever possible) and Quality Watches • Clock Repairs - Free Estimates Given • No Obligation Quotes • Wide Range of New and • Over 18’s - I.D Required Previously Owned Jewellery WE WILL BEAT ANY • Pearl Stringing/Engraving GENUINE OFFER GUARANTEED • In House Jewellery Valuations Interested in advertising? Tel: 01322 507817 www.dartfordliving.com
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What Is Love?
How would you define love? Many say love is with someone you have known for years. Some say it could be love at first sight. But what is it?
“Love is an emotion of strong affection and personal attachment. Love is also a virtue representing all of human kindness, compassion, and affection”; and “the unselfish loyal and benevolent concern for the good of another”. Love may also be described as actions towards others based on compassion, or as actions towards others based on affection.” This is the definition you find on Wikipedia. Do you agree? “It’s different for everyone. For me it’s being with someone you can’t imagine not having in your life. You can’t live without them. It’s just something you know; when you look into their eyes it just clicks. It gets stronger every time.” This is another definition from a friend of mine. You see everyone has a different definition of love. It’s what you want it to be. But now the real question is does it exist? If someone is in love they tend to get married and say love lasts forever, yet people get divorced. How can love just disappear, unless it wasn’t there in the first place...?
By local student Charlotte Mattin
There is no real ‘proof’ of love it’s an emotional feeling, which is very different for everyone. When you’re with the one you “love” you know it. It just feels right. When you’re so comfortable with that person you don’t have to pretend. When you can’t imagine life without them. The amazing feeling when you are with them. Looking in each other’s eyes and just knowing instantly, this is the one. So what is love? Love is whatever you want it to be! Passion, romance, friendship. There is no real definition. It doesn’t have to last forever. If you want to call it love then do so. It’s your life after all. Nobody knows how you both feel. What do you think? Let us know your thoughts. Email love@dartfordliving.com
BRAMBLES
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www.DartfordBootcamps.co.uk
SUDOKU
HOW TO PLAY: Fill in the grid so that every row, every column and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 through to 9, with no repetition. That’s all there is to it!
C B
(Solution on page 38)
Sudoku provided by www.free-sudoku.net
Craig Baker
Plastering, Rendering & Screeding Specialist • FREE ESTIMATES • 22 YEARS EXPERIENCE
Mobile: 07930 969 903 Home: 01322 220341 30
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RLT Plastering
Competitive Rates!
A BAINES & SON ROOFING • New Roofs • Repairs • Tiles • Slates • Flat Roofs • All Lead Work • UPVC Fascias & Soffits • All Guttering
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Clean, tidy, professional service No job too small
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F.D. TRANSPORT “FULWICH VILLA” 100 FULWICH ROAD, DARTFORD KENT TEL: 01322 292323 MOBILE: 07831 448552
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F.D. TRANSPORT
• ALL GOODS FULLY INSURED • HAULAGE, PARCEL SERVICE, SINGLE ITEMS Interested in advertising? Tel: 01322 507817 www.dartfordliving.com
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smiledartford Dental Practice Gentle & Caring Dentistry
01322 220677
smiledartford@btinternet.com smiledartford.co.uk Our principal Dentist, Dr M Logue has been established in Dartford since 1981 and is a member of the British Association of Cosmetic Dentistry. It is our aim to have a friendly yet efficient practice. Our team are happy to give their help, advice and assistance. We want you to have a healthy smile of which you can be proud. OUR PRACTICE OFFERS: • Cosmetic, Restorative & Preventative Dentistry • Zoom Tooth Whitening • Veneers • White Fillings • Dentures, Crowns, Bridges • Dental Implants • Emergency Appointments • A relaxed and friendly environment • Female Dentists & Hygienist • State of the art surgeries with air conditioning • Ceiling mounted TVs to watch during treatment • Early, Evening & Saturday Appointments Available
Special Offer 10% off Teeth Whitening. Call for details
Dartford Dental Practice 69 The Brent, Dartford DA1 1YD
CLAREMONT DECORATIVE SERVICES • ALL TYPES OF INTERNAL AND EXTERNAL DECORATING • AROUND THE HOUSE MAINTENANCE JOBS • FREE ESTIMATES • REFERENCES AVAILABLE • RELIABLE, INEXPENSIVE AND QUALITY WORK BY LOCAL TRADESMEN
CAN WE HELP YOU? Please call Mike or John on: Tel 01322 406439 / 01322 525708 Mobile: 07742 085333 Email: mikeperry5001@aol.com Partners: Mike Perry and John Petherick
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Gardening Tips for May Flowers
• Plant summer bedding • Prune spring-flowering shrubs to prevent them from becoming overgrown • Finish sowing hardy annuals: the later they are sown, the later they will flower • Dig up, divide and replant polyanthus after they have flowered, discard any with disease • Start to harden off bedding plants by putting them out for the day and back in for the night • Protect susceptible plants from slugs • Clear out spring bedding from beds and borders when it fades, and fork in fertiliser • Plant hanging baskets and put them in
the greenhouse • Deadhead spring bulbs (but do not cut the foliage back yet) • Ensure newly planted plants are kept watered in dry spells • Prune spring-flowering shrubs to prevent them from becoming overgrown
Vegetables
• Most vegetable crops can be sown but delay if the soil is cold and wet • Plant main crop potatoes • Earth up early crop potatoes • Weed between any vegetable crops • Harvest any Asparagus spears that are showing
Lawns
• Apply a weedkiller and fertiliser
Tips provided by Dobbies Garden World.
combination • Seed new lawns and cover to keep birds away • Mow lawns once a week if needed. Avoid cutting if there is frost • Spot treat lawns if no general lawn weedkiller is used • Lay new turf and keep well watered if a dry spell ensues
General Tasks
• Control slugs and snails by trapping • Visit the garden centre for new pots and basket plants • Watch out for late frosts and keep fleece handy • Check watering each day as temperatures rise
P. Clark
GENERAL BUILDERS (EST. 1976)
All enquiries contact Paul: Tel: 01322 270951 Mob: 07985 457432 Email: paclark26@aol.com • Bathrooms • Kitchens • Flat Felt Roofing • Carpentry • Guttering • Decorating • Tiled Roofing • Plumbing • Boiler Servicing • Fencing • Block Driveways • Brickwork • Plastering • Electrical Installations • Extensions & Loft Conversions Project Managed
Fully Qualified Tradesmen Electrical NICEIC Registered Plumbing Corgi Registered Interested in advertising? Tel: 01322 507817 www.dartfordliving.com
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Dhiren’s Automotive News Here are a few new economic models which are due for release in the future... Special edition Suzuki Swift – Suzuki has launched this special edition Suzuki Swift Attitude, which will be limited to 500 units. Aimed at younger drivers, the new Attitude model is based on the current 93bhp 1.2 litre SZ3 car, but adds front fog lights, tinted windows and carbon fibre-effect trim to the roof and door mirrors. A body-coloured rear spoiler, ‘Attitude’ badging and black 16 inch alloys are also on the list. Just Superior White is offered and prices for the three-door car start from £10,750. The five-door Attitude-spec Swifts add a premium of £470 at £11,220. Smart Fortwo – Smart has confirmed that the next Fortwo will go on sale in 2014. The face-lifted version of the current Fortwo was on display at the New York motor show,
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but an all-new model is due in around two years. The new Fortwo will have roughly the same dimensions as the current model and the styling is likely to be strongly influenced by the Forvision concept car that made its debut at the 2011 Frankfurt motor show. More details will be available closer to the launch time.
2012 Skoda Citigo – The Skoda Citigo will cost from £7,630 when it goes on sale in June this year. That’s £365 less than competitors the VW Up and £215 less than the Seat Mii, making Skoda’s model the cheapest of the three virtually identical city cars. A five-door version of the Citigo will go on sale at the same time and will cost £350 more than the three-door car. The Citigo is available in three trims: S, SE and Elegance. The entry-level model gets steel wheels, and comes with a height-adjustable steering wheel and a CD player with aux input. The Citigo comes with a choice of two three-cylinder petrol engines with either 59 or 74bhp. A five-speed auto gearbox is also available.
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Dea r Dartfo rd Liv ing ,
It’s Y our Letter Have yo s!
somethi u got about a ng to say See pag local issue? of how e 3 for details to conta ct us.
In June 2012 I will be heading to Tanza nia along with other students from Brunel University to take on the challenge of climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro; the highest point in Africa, and highest freestanding mountain in world. This is all in aid of Childreach International; a UK registered charity who work in the developing world with the aim of providing disadvantaged children with Healthcare, child rights and protection, and education. In order to under take this challenge I need to raise a total of £2,450. With respec t to the climb itself some of the fundraised amou nt will be used to cover the costs; howev er over 50% and as much of 70% of the total amou nt will go directly towards Childreach’ s charitable activities in the developing world. So far to raise the total need, I have done a cake sale, held a sponsored charity race night at my local scout group in Dartford, had donations through my online fundraising page, have been sponsored by various peopl e at the Leigh Academy in Dartford where I used to go to schoo l, and various group activities at university. This has led to me raising a total of £1,317.45 so far. With this in mind; I now aim to continue my efforts leading up to the final deadline and hopefully reach the total amount needed. Childreach is an amazing charit y and does some amazing work for children in developing countries; and although this will of course be an amaz ing experience for myself and a great challenge to achiev e; it is great to know that the majority of the money raised will go towards the charities activities and help so many childr en across the world.
Kin d rega rds, Adam Wh ite
Your Theatre Needs You! Summer Youth Project 2012 - Annie Talented local youngsters have the chance to tread the boards at The Orchard as part of the theatre’s Summer Youth Project 2012. Following on from the success of High School Musical and Fame, this year The Orchard is looking for 250 youngsters aged between 9 and 19 years old who wish to take part in the classic production of Annie. The musical tells the story of a young orphan forced to live in a miserable orphanage overseen by an even more miserable mistress. Following an exciting string of events, Annie’s presence is requested by a millionaire who helps her to find the answers she has been seeking. They are looking for talented singers, actors, dancers and technicians who will, under the supervision of
a highly-skilled production team including a professional director, choreographer and musical director, spend an intensive two weeks rehearsing for the production which will culminate in three live performances. Anyone successful in their audition must be available between Monday 13th and Saturday 25th August, with the performances taking place between Friday 24th and Saturday 25th August. Auditions will take place on Sunday 13th May from 9am, with registration from 8am. For more information or to apply for an audition visit www. orchardtheatre.co.uk, where you can download an audition form, alternatively they can be picked up from the Ticket Office. Please return audition forms by Monday 7th May. If you have any questions regarding the project please call Kelly at the Orchard Theatre on 01322 220099 or email Kelly at kreynolds@orchardtheatre.co.uk
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F I T N E S S
Breakfast
By Mark Broadbent, Master Personal Trainer & Instructor at Dartford Bootcamps. www.DartfordBootcamps.co.uk
Well known as being the most important meal of the day, many people tend to skip breakfast or opt for something quick and convenient in their morning rush, but what is this doing to your body? Eating breakfast not only helps you to make better food choices throughout the day, but studies have also shown that those who skip breakfast tend to overeat later in the day, contributing to higher body fat levels and BMI. So skipping that all important meal in a vain attempt to lose weight is actually doing the complete opposite and helping you to store excess body fat! As important as actually eating breakfast, is what you eat. This is the same for any meal, but even more so for breakfast, and needs highlighting since the typical “breakfast foods” are so out of sync with what we need to kick off our day. Toast or cereal seems to be the popular choice for adults and kids alike, no doubt because it’s quick and easy; but this is possibly the worst breakfast you can have! Possibly even worse than skipping it altogether! Forget your “wholegrain goodness” and “keeping hunger locked up ‘til lunch”, or how “grrrreat!” they are, these processed, refined carbohydrates are majorly lacking in nutrition (they actually have to add synthetic vitamins/ minerals to these cereals to be allowed to sell them as “food”). Not to mention the insulin response of eating a high-carb, low fat, low protein meal! Add to that the fact that wheat and processed dairy are two of the biggest culprits for food intolerance, and sugar
sends energy levels sky-rocketing, then crashing back down again, and you’ve got a recipe for disaster. Erratic energy levels, hunger well before lunch, poor concentration and weight gain follow. So what should you eat for Breakfast? It’s important to “break your fast” with nutritionally rich foods, providing the nutrients your body needs, and keeping you satisfied right through until lunch-time. Contrary to what the cereal producers tell you – that’s NOT carbs! The foods that satiate us and keep us from feeling hungry again soon after are protein and fats. These have a low insulin response – meaning no energy spike then crash. They are digested more slowly and your brain actually registers that you’ve received some nutrition – so you won’t be hungry again for a while. One of the best things you can do is remember that food is food; there are no “breakfast foods”, “lunch foods”, or “dinner foods”. I highly recommend the “Meat and Nut” breakfast. Simply, rotate daily between different meat (not processed) and nut combinations. Chicken breasts and a handful of Almonds; Steak and a handful of Cashews; Turkey and a handful of Brazil nuts… you get the idea. Tea, coffee and herbal teas are acceptable, but avoid processed milk and fruit juices. This will set you up for the day, prevent you from overeating and making poor food choices, and ensure more steady energy levels. Give it a try!
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Each month we look at a different part of the world and writes exactly 80 words. This month...Liverpool The airport greets visitors with the slogan “above us only sky” and a giant yellow submarine. There’s Penny Lane, an Eleanor Rigby statue and The Cavern Club to explore. For non-Beatles fans there’s Speke Hall, a timber framed Tudor House, the Tate Liverpool right by the water and the beautiful Albert Dock. Of course, it’s a dream place for Liverpool and Everton Football Club fans but my favourite place is “the bombed-out church”: completely derelict and above you, only sky. Written by a guest writer: Raja Farah. Raja Farah blogs at www.ohmyhappiness.com
✆ Useful Numbers 24 Hour Kent & Medway Dementia Helpline: 0845 604 4391 Alcoholics Anonymous: 08457 697 555 Citizens Advice Bureau: 01322 224686 Crimestoppers: 0800 555111 Darent Valley Hospital: 01322 428100 Dartford Borough Council: 01322 343434 Dartford Police Station (non urgent crime): 01622 690690 EDF Energy Networks Emergencies/Powercuts Helpline: 0800 028 0247 Gareth Johnson MP 020 7219 7047
Gatwick Airport Enquiries: 08700 002468 Heathrow Airport Enquiries: 08700 000123 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 National Gas Emergency Service: 0800 111 999
National Rail Enquiries: 08457 484950 NHS Direct: 0845 4647 NSPCC Child Protection Helpline: 0808 800 5000 Report a non-urgent crime online: www.reportacrime.kent.police.uk RSPCA Kent - North West Branch: 01474 328515 Samaritans: 08457 909090 smiledartford Dental Practice: 01322 220677 Thames Water Leak Line: 0800 714614 The National Pandemic Flu Service: 0800 1 513 100 West Kent NHS Helpline: 0800 0 850850
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DTAC wins top award
By local resident and
Dartford Town Against Crime (DTAC) has been awarded a Safer Business Award, in recognition of its work in the town centre and beyond.
Leader of the Council, Councillor Jeremy Kite accepted the award on behalf of DTAC from Richard Barron, Chief Executive of the Association of Business Crime Partnerships Ltd, in Dartford’s Orchards Shopping Centre on Wednesday 29th February. The presentation was also attended by representatives from DTAC, including Dartford Borough Council, Kent Police and town centre stakeholders.
place to trade and shop. The scheme is run by aDaniel board ofCobley town student centre stakeholders and makes use of technology, including radios and a CCTV network to identify potential problems and reduce crime levels. The scheme has been so successful in the town centre that it has been rolled out to other areas of the Borough, including Swanscombe and Greenhithe.
Councillor Kite said, “It’s fantastic that DTAC has been recognised for its efforts in helping Dartford be a safer place to live and work. Keeping people safe and reducing losses for local shopkeepers is a key part of our plans to breathe new life into Dartford. DTAC is a superb partnership between the Council, local shopkeepers and the Police which is proving highly successful. Thanks to the work we do, it’s actually quite hard to get away with shoplifting, crime and antisocial behaviour in Dartford and that’s got to be good news for shoppers and residents.” DTAC works hard to make Dartford’s retail environment a safer
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From left to right: Roscoe Walford, Chief Inspector, Dartford District Commander, Councillor Jeremy Kite, Leader of Dartford Borough Council, Debbie Carey, Manager, Orchards Shopping Centre, Richard Barron, Chief Executive, Association of British Crime Partnerships Ltd, Jeff Wren, Intelligence Manager, Dartford Borough Council
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Diary of a School Run Mum
Each month we delve into the secret thoughts of a local mum , but unlike The Stig, she never rev eals her identity!
Where, exactly, does all the time go? I made grand plans to learn something new each mont h, yet here I am almost half way through the year with not very much to show for it! Well, I have gained 2lbs in weight – does that count? No, thought not. Anyway, last month I rather flippantly decided to start cycling everywhere – you have gues sed that I have had another epic fail already, haven’t you? Was it the 2lb? Hmm, thought so... I started off well, I really did, we had a couple of sunny days to spur me on, but then there came the ‘White Van Incident’. Near my house there is a fairly leisurely hill which when you are walking up it hardly registers on the legs, but to a bicycle, it is on a par with running a marathon… Back wards… In Heels…. Well I was carefully negotiating this local Everest when alongside me I gained the company of a white van, containing what on the surface looked like builders, but actually turned out to be Olympic Coac hes. My pride (and advancing years) got the better of me and I decided I would
not get off of the bike as I usually do after about 20 seconds, but I gallantly cycle all the way to the top – non-stop!
My “Olympic champions” were there the whole way, cheering me on and in the process creat ing a traffic jam right back to the last set of lights , a mile down the hill. To cut a long story short, I did make it to the top, the white van went on it’s merr y way – laughing at the silly woman with the puce face gasp ing for breath at the top if the hill – and then one by one every other driver in Dartford who had been held up by my stubborn, childish cycling drove very slowly past each with their own special way of acknowledging my achievement…. Mainly beeping, or sadly, slowly shak ing their heads…. So, to May – never one to give up on the pursuit of the perfect figure, this month I will be enter ing the Bluewater 10K race in June, so I am embarking on what is called the ‘Couch Potato to 5k Plan’ for novic e runners – wish me luck, I’ll need it as it’s obvious I neve r learn!
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