Dartford Living July 2016

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July 2016 - Issue 121

Limited spaces still available for September 2016

For more information please contact 01322 626600 WHAT’S INSIDE...

Dartford Living Live Page 19

Award Winning Fish & Chips Page 22

Arrow Riding Centre Page 42

Plus - All your regular

features, events, information and much, more in your expanded 56 page issue.

www.dartfordlivinglive.co.uk - www.dartfordliving.com - www.dartfordbusinessdirectory.co.uk

DARTFORD BUSINESS CENTRE PROVIDING A FULL SERVICE TO DARTFORD SMALL BUSINESSES

“A Hand Holding Service” Established 35 years

COMPANY FORMATION Save tax by forming a private company from as little as £45 + registration fee + VAT. www.companyregistration.org ACCOMMODATION ADDRESS Have a virtual office accommodation address facility for as little as £40.00 per month. www.accommodation-address.com RENT AN OFFICE 24/7 Offices available to rent from as little as £38.00 per week with parking. www.accommodation-address.com

ACCOUNTANCY & TAX SERVICE Conradi Morrison & Co specialises in small clients and provides a top class personal service for a fixed low fee.

Phone for a free meeting to discuss your needs. www.dartfordaccountants.com PAYLINE Let us undertake your payroll and take the strain from you for as little as £18 per month + VAT. www.payline.org

Tel: 01322 278188

Haslemere, 4 Summerhill Rd, Dartford DA1 2LP Email: phc@conradimorrison.com

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Welcome to your

DARTFORD LIVING Magazine

Dear Readers,

As usual this month’s edition is jam packed with lots of local information and local businesses. Please support as many as you can “use them or lose them!”

Don’t forget that we run Dartford Living alongside volunteer members of the local community FOR the local community. Dartford Living is YOUR magazine, the only independently run magazine serving 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 not for you then perhaps you could volunteer to deliver 100 or so magazines to your local roads - you will guarantee your copy of the magazine and get a little exercise as well!

We deliver to thousands of homes and businesses in the local area, however if you don’t always receive a copy directly through your door, you can pick up a copy from various drop off points. These include Dartford Football Club, numerous local libraries, Fairfield Leisure Centre, The Priory Shopping Centre, Stephen Oliver Art Gallery, numerous health centres and local Barclays branches. The ‘Previous Editions’ section of the Dartford Living website also includes electronic versions of Dartford Living magazine. Additionally, if you email editor@dartfordliving.com we will add you to our newsletter email mailing list and contact you just once a month with an electronic copy of Dartford Living! Nearly 5000 local people already do this!

Until next time, Vijay - Editor, Dartford Living (and Annie, Barbara, Bhavesh, Christine, David, Dawn, Derek, Debbie, Dhiren, Elaine, Eleanor, Emma, Holly, Jackie, Jane, Jenny, Joanne, John, Ken, Kelly, Mark, Nickki, Nicola, Pat, Richey, Steph, Steven, Teresa and the rest of the fantastic Dartford Living volunteer team)

check out our new website for even more local news and articles

www.dartfordliving.com

Contents 6-14....................... .................... What’s on 15...................................... Useful numbers 19.................................Dartford Living Live 22.................................The Parade Fish Bar 23.............................Dartford Living Meets 24....................................More about Bees 25.....................................3 Peak Challenge 34-35..........................Life Under The Stairs 36.-37.....................................News in Brief 42-43..........................Arrow Riding Centre 44..............................................Auto News 45...............................................Gardening 46.....................................................Fitness 47...............................Small Business News 49..................................Sporting Comment 50-51.........................................Local News 52.................Orchard Theatre Competition 58....................................Theatre Roundup

YOUR NEXT DEADLINE IS 12TH JULY

Advertising

We offer amazing value advertising with adverts starting from just £26 per month. We also provide advertising options on our website and also social media channels for maximum exposure.

To book an advert call 01322 507817 or email

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David Shafford Magazine/ Website design and Sales

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Please Pleasemention mentionDartford DartfordLiving Living when contacting contacting our our advertisers advertisers

Advertisers Index

Directory of Local Businesses advertising in Dartford Living

AUCTION HOUSE Watermans.................................................32 ACCOUNTANTS, FINANCE & LEGAL Conradi Morrison & Co .....................................................2 BW Accounts......................................................................18 Buss Murton ..................................................................... 39 GF+Co......................................................20 Lynton & Co ........................................................................5 Smith Kiew Partners...........................................................30 BUILDERS, DECORATORS ROOFING, KITCHENS & WINDOWS A Baines & Son Roofing.....................................................32 Claremont Decorative Services.. .................................54 McIntyre Clarke Limited......................................................31 Steve Cook - Double Glazing............................................33 CHILDCARE Dimples.. ...........................................................56 CHURCHES Grace Centre......................................................................30 Crossways Community Church.............................................38 CLOTHING Tots and Frocks..................................................................35 COSMETIC, BEAUTY & HEALTH Dia Wipes.. ............................................................17 Slimming World .................................................................56 CLEANING JJ Renovations...................................................................31 COUNCIL Dartford Borough Council ....................................................29 DOG GROOMING Carries Cruffty Cuts............................................................35 EDUCATION Kip McGrath.. .........................................................33 Leaders are Readers..........................................................22 The Leigh UTC ..................................................................1 ELECTRICIANS AES Electricians...............................................................4 Mr Electric.........................................................................47 ESTATE/ LETTING AGENTS GPS Lettings.....................................................................17 Virotti.............................................................26 Wisdom Estates..............................................................21 GARAGES & VEHICLE SERVICES Shenley Road Garage..........................................................40 GARDENING SERVICES The Plant Centre................................................................35 HAIRDRESSERS Sylvia’s Hair Salon................................................................41 HEALTHCARE Cameleon Care..................................................................14 HOTELS Campanile...................................................................4 HEATING AND PLUMBING JA Projects........................................................................40 JEWELLERY Bradleys............................................................................32

LOGISTICS/ REMOVALS FD TRANSPORT ...........................................................41 MUSIC/DANCE & FITNESS Dartford Bootcamps............................................................4 Monkey Music.. ..........................................................7 Vibe..................................................................................21 OPTICIANS Linklater Opticians.............................................................39 PICTURE FRAMING Craft Frames.. ...........................................................40 PUB, RESURANT, TAKE AWAY The Parade Fish Bar .........................................................22 Malt Shovel........................................................................51 SANDWICH BAR Sally Sues..........................................................................24 SECURITY SYSTEMS Excel Security....................................................................... ..20SPORTS Fairfield Leisure Centre.......................................................16 STOVES AND FIREPLACES The Stove and Fireplace ....................................................54 WILL WRITING SMN Will Writing .........................................................54

in advertising?

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Where to go locally...

...local events, clubs & groups

Parent & Toddler Groups (Term Time) Mondays 9:15am - 11:00am. St Anselms Church Community Centre, Dartford. Contact Julie on 01322 291092.

St Mary’s Greenhithe Church Hall, Messy Makers:10.15am-11.15am - an hour of messy play and creative activities for 2-5 year olds. at messymakers@gmail.com or call London Road, Greenhithe. £4.50 per child. For further information and to book, please emailus 07851 150593.

Tuesdays Catherine on 01322 220036.

Session 1: 9.15-10.45am, and Session 2: 11-12.30pm. Christchurch, Crossroad, Dartford. Contact and drinks. John 01322 272649.

Little Fishes: 12 - 2pm, Net Church,, (Formerly Gala Bingo Hall) Dartford, £3 per family including all snacks information. further for 288434 (01322) on us call Please Dartford.

Street, Hythe 9.30am -11.30am. The Salvation Army, 66 school children up to 4 years pre For children the for time snack healthy and ,biscuits tea Sticky Fingers, 9.30-11.30 am £1.50 per adult includes reenhithe.com www.stmaryg see or 382031 01322 St Mary Greenhithe Church Hall London Road Greenhithe Contact Wednesdays for further information.

9.30am -11.30am. The Salvation Army, 66 Hythe Street, Dartford. Please call us on (01322) 288434 term, £5 weekly dependent on 6-weekly 1pm-2pm - Fleetdown Community Centre, Swaledale Road, Dartford, DA2 6JZ t - £30 for Kent “Happi-Mess Facebook on us find or il.com kent@hotma availability, paid in advance - happi-messThursdays The Vineyard Centre, 24 Market St, Dartford. Contact Jane on 07956 430244 for further details.

9:30 - 11:30am. St Paulinus Church Hall, Manor Road, Crayford.

- facebook.com/ToeRags 9.30-11am Toerags Toddler Group - Adult education centre, Dartford £3 per Child - £1 Non Walkers - facebook.com/ToeRags 1-2.30pm Toerags Toddler Group - Adult education centre, Dartford £3 per Child - £1 Non Walkers Fridays 9.30-11am Baby and me for expectant mothers and mothers / carers of chidren up to 2. £1 per adult reenhithe.com St Mary Greenhithe Church Hall, London Road Greenhithe. Contact 01322 382031 or see www.stmaryg - facebook.com/ToeRags Walkers Non £1 Child per £3 Dartford centre, education Adult Group Toddler Toerags 9.30-11am jeannehoadley@yahoo.co.uk 380322 01322 9.30-11.30 Carer & Toddler Group, St Mary’s Church Hall, Stone Place Rd, Greenhithe. Jeanne 1-3pm Gigglekidz, Tree Estate Community Centre on Cedar Road - £2 Per Child Saturdays

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 includes reenhithe.com www.stmaryg see or 382031 01322 Contact Greenhithe.

Road London St Mary Greenhithe Church Hall,

Toddler Music & Rhyme Sessions

TUESDAY S 2 sessions, from 9.30-10.30am and 10:45 - 11:45am in Fleetdown FC Hall; Heath Lane, Dartford. Contact Kate on 07770 860450.. ALSO RUN SAME PLACE/TI ME ON THURSDAYS TUESDAY S 10.30m - 11.00am (term time only) at Fleetdown Library - Baby Bounce and Rhyme session. Tel: 08458 247 247.

THURSDAYS (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.

THURSDAYS 10.30am - 11.00am (term time only) at Fleetdown Library - Baby Bounce and Rhyme session. Tel: 08458 247 247.

THURSDAYS 2.15 - 2.45pm (term time only) at Greenhithe Library - Baby Bounce and Rhyme session. Tel: 08458 247 247.

THURSDAYS 10.45am - 11.15am (term time only) at Longfield Library - Baby Bounce and Rhyme session. Tel: 08458 247 247.

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Little Bright Sparks Fun phonics, literacy and numeracy classes for 2-4 year olds. Classes held on Weds in East Malling and Thurs in West Kingsdown ÂŁ5.50 per class 07768 447657 for more info www.facebook.com/littlebrightsparks http://www.babysign.org.uk/

Slade Green and Howbury Community Library Baby and Toddler Action Rhyme time group Every Wednesday (Term Time only) at 11.15am LEGO Club Every Saturday 2-3pm for ages 5 and over Chrome Road Slade Green DA8 2EL Tel: 01322 333602

Sarah

07891 545965 sarah.h@hartbeeps.com

Parent and Baby Sing and Sign classes Learn baby signing the fun way!

Help your baby to communicate before speech, using music and play with weekly themes, instruments, and physical fun.

Dartford, Bexley, Greenhithe, coming soon to New Ash Green and other areas.

T: 07958 455699 E: jenettehawkes@outlook.com W: www.singandsign.com

Interested in advertising? Tel: 01322 507817 www.dartfordliving.com

Dartford Living

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Where to go locally...

The North West Kent Branch of the Motor Neurone Disease Association meets at 8pm on the

4th Wednesday evening of each month in the Pop-In Parlour, Mill Road, Northumberland Heath, Erith. The meetings last about 2 hours and the group often have a speaker on a variety of subjects, followed by tea and biscuits and general chat. For more information contact Eileen on 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 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.

SHORNE FLOWER ARRANGERS

Our Club presents a programme of workshops and demonstrations in a very informal and friendly atmosphere.

We meet on the last Thursday of each month except December. Shorne Village Hall, The Street, Shorne. DA12 3EA. Visitors are always made very welcome, entry £3. We have 30 members and look forward to welcoming anyone who loves flowers. The Club provides an opportunity for people to be creative, make friends.

For further information please phone 01474 353405 or email landaclatworthy@btinternet.com

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Swanley History Group Meets 1st Tuesday of every month. Presentations on local social history. Venue Swanley Indoor Bowls Centre Garrolds Close Swanley BR8 7BF. Doors open 7.15 for 7.30 p.m. Members £1 Visitors £2.

Everyone welcome. Email swanleyhistorygroup@ hotmail.co.uk for more details or visit our website https://swanleyhistorygroup.weebly. com or Facebook page. Annual membership £5 includes a monthly newsletter.

NORTH KENT EMBROIDERERS’ GROUP Meets on the third Saturday of every month (except August) from 2pm - 4pm in the Community Room of Gravesend Library, Windmill Street, Gravesend DA12 1BE. The programme of activities is varied with workshops, talks and sit and stitch sessions. Visitors are very welcome. More information can be found on our website www.northkentembroiderers.co.uk or phone 01474324734.

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.

We have 2 meetings per month. Bexley: 4th Thursday of each month, at Pincott Hall, 2-4pm. Dartford: 2nd Thursday of each month, Mick Jagger Centre, 7.30-9.30pm.

Information support workers available, guest speakers and quizzes. Contact Pamela Childs 0208 303 8971

MODERN LINEDANCING CLASSES

at Dance Union, Greenhithe.

Wednesdays 1pm - 2pm. Fun, social class learning routines from differing genres to popular music providing exercise for body and brain. No dance experience or partners necessary. Contact 01322 387630.

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 Dartford & District Stamp Club Hold regular meetings in The Meeting Place, The Orchard Shopping Centre, Dartford. Details from Steve Alpe 01322 284491 or email

Dartford Books and Culture Club meets once a month on Saturday mornings at Dartford Library. For more information, find us at www.meetup. com/West-Kent-BookClub/

20s 30s Dartford Bexleyheath surrounding areas social group more information visit: www.meetup.com/20s-30s-Dartford-Bexleyheath-surroundingareas-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 01474-709068 or visit our website.

Michael Fish, the famous weather forecaster, will give a talk on Climate Change on Tuesday, 7th June 2016 at the David Lloyd Sports Centre, Princes Road, Dartford at 2pm. Entry is by ticket only.

Dartford Floral Club The club meet on the 3rd Friday of the month at Hawley Pavilion, Hawley Rd.(opp Papermakers Arms) at 7.30 Come along for an evening of beautiful flowers, fun and friendship. Entrance £6.00, refreshments and a raffle with the chance to take home a beautiful floral arrangement.

Contact Chris 01322 836026

Dartford Quilters meet on the 2nd Saturday of each

month at the Mick Jagger Centre, Shepherds Lane, Dartford. We run a varied programme of activities suitable for the beginner through to the more experienced quilter. More details can be obtained from the club secretary on 01474 834872

The Dartford Chess Club

The club meets every Thursday evening from 7.30pm at St Anselms Parish Hall, West Hill and was founded 100 years ago in 1914. All queries to Mike Wiltshire at 01322 272152 or visit www.dartfordchessclub.co.uk

GUITARS IN THE SHADOWS – JOIN IN MUSIC BY THE SHADOWS TO 60S TO ROCK N ROLL Meet at Dartford Working Mens Club (Essex Road) at 7.30pm on the fourth Thursday of the month.

Membership is free but we do ask for a small contribution to costs on the night. Call Ray on 07813 540131 or email guitarsinshadows@hotmail.com

COLUMBINE CHINA PAINTERS CLUB

meets on the 1st and 3rd Thursday each month at Sutton at Hone Village Hall. 1.30pm until 4.30pm. £2.00 per afternoon. £10.00 yearly fee.

We are a small, friendly club, not expensive. Tuition given. All supplies can be bought in situe. Come and see if you like it, free tea And biccies. You will be very welcome.

Contact - Maureen Beckham 01322 287214. Marie Blake 01474 704581. Doreen Goddard 01474 707357.

WEST HILL MORRIS

RSPCA Come andKENT, join your local Morris side, dancing NORTH and performing Gravesend and WEST BRANCinHDartford, Bexley areas and throughout FREE MICRO CHIPP ING Kent in the Summer. We are a mixed and very sociable RSPCA North West side, andKent, can always find room foroffers newfree dancers Branch, and chipping musicians. great way of keeping micro s forIt’s alladomestic animalsaatgreat its fit and you’ll be helping to conserve clinic attradition.

37 Gordon Road, Dartford English We practice alternate , Kent,Tuesday evenings at Bexley, from September to April, DA1 2LX on the 1st Saturday in each month, then dancing out at pubs, clubs and fetes, 10am to 12.30pm is free but Private throughout Kent,. The fromservice May to August.

Bookings Contact Alison on 01322 donation s aretaken. appreciat ed. For more informat ion 862298, e-mail alisondukes@btinternet.com please visit www.rspca-kentnorthwest.org.uk.

Interested in advertising? Tel: 01322 507817 www.dartfordliving.com

Dartford Living

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Where to go locally...

TONI MOUNT HISTORY CLASSES

The group meet every week at Towncentric in Gravesend and this year we are looking at Everyday Life in Medieval London. We meet every Thursday from 10.30-12.30 at £6.00 per week customers can phone me on 01474 355676 for more information or look at my website www.tonimount.co.uk

Hi all, if you went to DSTC, DTC, Dartford West Girls or any other name that the school has been known as we would love to hear from you! The school is looking to make links with former students to help raise the profile of the school but also as a way of getting back in touch with people. There will be an event later on in the academic year and we are planning some exciting things for the group so get joining and let’s get reminiscing!! https://www.facebook.com/groups/DSTCAlumni/

The Players Crayford We meet every Tuesday at 8.00 in the Community hall (opp St Paulinus church) Crayford. We are looking for anyone who could help us with sound, lights, scenery or singing/ acting on the stage - everyone welcome. Email me (Carolyn) for more details at c_sawyers@hotmail.com.

Everybody welcome, join us for a friendly chat and light refreshments.

SCRAPPY DAYS! A SCRAPBOOKING GROUP

is being held at Hawley Pavilion, Hawley Road, Dartford, DA2 7RB on the 2nd Sunday of the month between 2pm and 6:30pm. It costs £6 which includes refreshments, nibbles and the use of a cricut (cutting machine for those that don’t know).

Beginners are very welcome. Contact Michelle on 07910 488428 or email scrappydays@hotmail.co.uk

PAVILION PLAYERS

Is an amateur dramatics group based at the Joydens Wood Community Centre, Wilmington, Kent. We meet every Tuesday from 8-10pm. For more information please visit www.facebook. com/pavilionplayers or call us on 07505 006539. Alternatively just pop down on a Tuesday night!

Everyone welcome!

CRAYFORD TOWN ARCHIVE incorporating Barnehurst and Slade Green. Meet every Monday (except the third Monday) 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.

Haven (LGBT) Social Group.

London / Kent area. Every Friday a safe Place to Meet.

For more information please contact 01322 287356 or 07503 306467 or email - havenx35@gmail.com

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TALK TIME

TUESDAY 2.00 - 3.00PM (TERM TIME ONLY) Fleetdown Library

Dartford Bellringers Holy Trinity Church, High Street, Wednesdays 8.009.30p.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

North West Kent Family History Society

The Dartford Branch meet the 1st Saturday of each month from 10am-12:30pm at the Dartford Science and Technology College, Heath Lane, For more information see www.nwkfhs.org.uk or ring Janet 01322384836

Dartford Art Group

We meet every Thursday evening from 7.309.30pm.

We meet at the What if...? Gallery 67-69 High Street Dartford DA1 1DJ. The cost to belong is £40 per annum. For further enquiries please email ruthghoward@aol.com or ring 07940 836672

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Mummy On The Mend

A support group for parents affected by pre and post natal depression Fridays 12:30 til 14:00 at St Marys Church Greenhithe Email mummyonthemend15@gmail.com for more details.

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.

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.

NHS RETIREMENT FELLOWSHIP

The Rendezvous Club (50+) Every Monday Time: 8pm - 10pm

Location: The Pop in Parlour, Graham Road, Bexleyheath DA6 7EG Description: We are a friendly social group open to anyone over fifty. As a social group we enjoy a number of activities including bingo, a Beatle drive, quizzes, to name but a few.

We also take part in outside activities including going for a meal or a trip to the theatre. On occasions we welcome a guest speaker.

Admission: £2.50 per week. Annual membership £6 (payable in January) Tel: 01322 287356 or 020 8304 6414

DARTFORD LADIES PROBUS CLUB

A group of retired ladies meet locally for lunch on the 4th Wednesday of each month,. 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

Dartford & Gravesham Branch Meets the first Wednesday of every month at the Masonic Hall, West Hill, Dartford from 10-12pm.Activities include guest speakers, outings, lunches, holidays and quizzes.

For more information contact Marion on 01322 402967

MALE? AGED 18 - 44?

WANT TO HAVE FUN AND DO SOMETHING WORTHWHILE WITH YOUR SPARE TIME? We’ve arrived in Dartford and we are a NEW Round Table Get involved, you WILL enjoy it! www.dartfordroundtable.co.uk

Fairfield (Dartford) WI 2nd Tuesday of every month, Dartford Girls’ Grammar School, 7.30pm. Contact Judith on 01322 278703 or Evelyn on 07891 061609.

Crayford Women’s Institute 1st Thursday of every month at 1.45pm. Baker Trust Hall. Maxim Road, Crayford (near Sainsburys). Contact Secretary, Jean Monk 01322 557142

Over 55’s Club - We meet every Wednesday 2pm to 4.30pm at Tree Community Centre, Cedar Road. We play bingo, tea and biscuits, and socialise. We also run regular coach trips to the coast throughout the year.

Our club is open to anyone over 55 wherever you live and costs just 60p to come along and join in. So why not come and join our friendly welcoming social club? For further information please call either John Letchford on 01322 270732 or Pam Carr on 01322 222195.

Joydens Wood Women’s Institute meet on the third Tuesday of every month, with meetings beginning at 7.45pm. We meet at the Community Centre, Birchwood Drive, Wilmington, DA2 7NE. More information can be found at joydenswoodresidents. co.uk (under Local Clubs and Societies).

Crayford and District Probus Club

meet on 1st and 3rd Wednesdays at the Falcon Wood Club, 1 Falcon Wood Avenue, Welling at 10am.

Contact Tony Maun 0208 306 1075 or email Crayford.Probus@gmail.com.

Interested in advertising? Tel: 01322 507817 www.dartfordliving.com

Dartford Living

11

Where to go locally...

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

Kent Exiles American Football Club www.kentexiles.co.uk.

Coach Martin - 07944 730634.

All ages from 7 years to adult welcome

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.

LEARN KICK BOXING AND KARATE!

Come and join one of North Kent’s fastest and most successful Martial Arts clubs.

For more information, call Saj on 07903 513104 or just come along to one of our sessions and join in the fun! With the most reasonable fees around, you’ll find that training can be affordable too! For all details please visit our website www.northkentkarate.com

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 http://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 Every Saturday morning at Becket Sport Centre. Kids start at 9am, adults at 11am. Just turn up, first lesson free or visit www.facebook.com/yamatodamashiimartialarts [1] for more info.

YOGA WITH EMMA

Wednesdays & Fridays 9:30am-10:30am At Europa Gymnastics Centre Fridays 7.00pm – 8.00pm at Becket Sports Centre For more information please contact Emma: emma@samadhi-yoga.co.uk TEL: 07932 621415 www.samadhi-yoga.co.uk

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Dartford & Crayford Sea Cadets based at Brooklands Lake Dartford, next to Homebase on Princes Road.

We parade every Tuesday and Thursday nights from 7pm- 9.15pm and is open to new recruits, junior cadets aged 10-12 and Sea Cadets aged 12-18. email dartfordscc@gmail.com for more details.

Dartford Orienteering Club

For more details see www.dfok.co.uk

Based in Greenhithe, FREE FIT is a community fitness club designed for people of all ages looking to gain basic levels of fitness, drop a few pounds and enjoy meeting and training with like minded people.

So if Gyms are not your thing and you are looking to take your first steps in fitness and weight loss, come and train with free fit. www.freefit888.co.uk for more info

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Useful Numbers Where to go locally...

Tennis Tots is the UK’s leading tennis play and coaching programme for boys and girls aged 2-6 years

For Pregnancy and Birth

Prenatal yoga Baby massage Mum and baby yoga Breathe, bond relax

lianne@yogabellies.co.uk 07530 281704

To book a free taster contact Tennis Tots North West Kent Call 07796 943798 email northwestkent@ tennis-tots.co.uk

www.tennis-tots.co.uk/ northwestkent

Alzheimer’s & Dementia S U P P O RT S E R V I C E S Registered Charity No. 1024385

FREE MEMORY CAFÉS Hartley Wellfield Community Hall DA3 7EG 1st Thursday of The Month 10am - 12pm

West Kingsdown Kingswood Court TN15 6LN 1st Tuesday of The Month 10am - 12pm

Swanley White Oak Court BR8 7WF 2nd Friday of the month 2pm - 4pm

Meopham St John’s Church Hall DA13 0AA 3rd Tuesday of the month 10am - 12pm

Dartford The Orchard Shopping Centre DA1 1DU 3rd Wednesday of The Month 10am - 12pm

Gravesend The Woodville Halls DA12 1AU 4th Wednesday of The Month 11am - 1pm

Living well with dementia, Practical information, Refreshments Chance to relax in a safe environment

Call Us On - 01474 533 990

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Dartford Living

13

Recruiting Community Support Workers.

Full training will be given.

Full, Part time & flexible hours to suit.

Full holiday entitlement.

Crufty Cuts Mobile Dog Grooming Puppy Pamper

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Bandstand Concerts in Central Park Free concerts take place at the Henry Wellcome Bandstand in Central Park on Sundays throughout the summer from 2pm to around 4pm.

Borrow a FREE deckchair or bring your own chair or picnic rug.

Refreshments are available from the Cafe in the Park.

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1st May - Dartford Concert Band 8th May - Tilbury Brass Academy 15th May - UK Paper Band 22nd May - East Peckham Silver Band 29th May - Orpington Concert Band 5th June - Invicta Jazz Orchestra 12th June - Bromley Concert Band 19th June - Medway Concert Band 26th June - Edenbridge Town Band 3rd July - Don Steele Jazz Band 10th July - Northfleet Brass Band 24th July - Doctor Jazz 31st July - Kent Police Band 7th August - Tilbury Band 14th August - Gravesend Borough Band 21st August - The Emeralds Steel Band 28th August - Dartford Concert Band

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Useful Numbers 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 0800 0280247 Flooding 03459881180 Highways Kent 03000 41 41 41 Social Services 03000 41 41 41 Water Burst 0800 820 999 (Southern) 0800 714614 (Thames) HEALTH Darenth Valley Hospital 01322 428100 Dartfordf East Health Centre 01322 421480 Dartford West Health Centre 01322 222998 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

Call 999 in an Emergency Fire, Police, Ambulance and Coastguard 101 Non Emergency Number for Kent Police Crimestoppers 0800 555 111 111 NHS Non Emergency Number 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: 0208 301 1010 LOCAL MP Gareth Johnson 020 7219 7047 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 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- PRINCES PARK GOLF CLUB. Contact: Mr. Pat Coleman, Secretary 01322 863730. email: pat.coleman@dartford.gov.uk The Ashes Badminton Club Mondays, Dartford Technology College, Heath Lane. 7.30-9.30.

Jacqui 07764 182854.

Dartford Valley RFC www.pitchero.com/clubs/ darenthvalleyrfc/ USEFUL FACEBOOK GROUPS Search facebook for: Dartford Living Dartford Today and Tomorrow Dartford Remembered Dartford Gossip Dartford Hour Love Dartford

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11 15 15

Eat, sleep and gym.

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a month

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A one-off admin fee applies to all memberships. Terms and conditions apply.

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Dia Wipes are an essential part of your blood testing routine. Suitable for anyone who has Type 1 Diabetes, or those with Type 2 Diabetes who need to test their blood.

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Available to order from leading insulin pump pouch and diabetic accessory supplier: Funky Pumpers www.funkypumpers.com or www.dia-wipe.com

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Dartford Living

17

Gareth Johnson, Member of Parliament for Dartford, will be available to meet with constituents on the

Gareth Johnson, Memberfollowing of Parliament for Dartford, will be dates: available to meet with constituents on the following dates: Bluewater, DA9 9ST (4.00 pm to 7.00 pm - Appointment required) Bluewater, DA9 9ST (2.00 Friday pm 4–September 5.00 pm - Appointment required) Friday OctoberJune Friday 210th Friday 6 November Bluewater, DA9 9ST (4.00 pm – 7.00 Friday 4 Decemberpm - Appointment required) Friday 22nd July Open Surgery (No appointment necessary) Friday – all day, 9th DartfordSeptember Festival, Central Park, Dartford Saturday 18 July Friday 14th October If you would like to meet Gareth Friday at one of his 4th regularNovember appointment based surgeries in the future, please Friday 2nd December contact him at gareth.johnson.mp@parliament.uk or telephone 020 7219 7047.

Dartford Festival (No appointment necessary) Saturday 16th July If you would like to meet Gareth at one of his regular appointment based surgeries in the future, please contact him at gareth.johnson.mp@parliament.uk or telephone 020 7219 7047. th

nd

th

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Please Dartford Pleasemention mention DartfordLiving Livingwhen whencontacting contactingour ouradvertisers advertisers

New date announced for Dartford Living Live

After the continuting success of the Dartford Living Live events we are very pleased to announce the next date and venue for the event.

Dartford Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society are hosting the event at their Heathfields Hall on the 27th July 2016 7-9pm. Once again refreshments will be provided and Mobile Bar Hire will be providing the drinks.

Tickets are FREE and are available for all local business and charities through our website www.dartfordlivinglive.co.uk Below is a review from our last event.

“Brilliant” “Fantastic event” “I’ve made so many great new contacts”

Featured Article

a perfect backdrop for the event. The food provided by A Question of Thyme was also very popular too.

A number of business and charities were given the opportunity to speak about their organisation in front of the whole networking group. A team of volunteers also created goody bags and local businesses and charities were invited to place their flyers, sample products and business card in so that local people start to build up a network of local businesses and charities.

Dartford Living charged absolutely nothing for organisation to attend the event and we also did not charge anything at all for businesses to include their items in our goodie bag.

Dartford Living are now in a position to announce the date and venue of the next event. The event will take place on Wednesday the 27th July 2016

Just a few of the lovely comments received after the third FREE Dartford Living Live networking event. With another 100+ turnout, After the success of our previous networking events, we hoped to build on this to make the latest event even better and it didn’t disappoint. Follow a similar format to the previous two events, the new Fairfield Leisure provided Interestedinin advertising?

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Dartford Living

21

Award Winning Fish and Chips

The Parade Fish Bar based on Crayford Way opposite the waterside, is a multiple award winning fish and chip shop with a renowned reputation for quality fish and chips & excellent customer service.

For the second year running, the chip shop has been named as one of the best in the UK. This year it was the only shop in Kent to make the list.

The traditional chip shop only uses the best quality fish and British potatoes which are peeled,chipped and prepared fresh every day. The batter is their own special recipe and the frying oil used is free of hydrogenated fats and has less than 1% trace of trans-fatty acids.

Owner Sukh Dhothar comments, “We strive to produce the best quality fish and chips. It’s the nations greatest meal and much healthier then most other takeaways.

“We are also currently undergoing training regarding Coeliac awareness and shortly will be able to provide gluten free fish and chips at least once a week”

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DARTFORD LIVING MEETS....... BY KELLY GOLDSWORTHY Laura Teisler-Goldsmith is a wife and busy mum of two and lives in Greenhithe. She qualified and worked as a lawyer but decided against practising after becoming a mother.

Twelve years ago Laura volunteered in Brazil, working with the street children in Rio and she credits this experience with a gaining of a new perspective. She formed Help for Leros last October. She explained: “In October 2015 I have received an email from a friend volunteering on Leros about the conditions and suffering of many children and families.Her words and the pictures she has sent were so shocking, it reduced me to tears, and I knew then that I had to respond. I got a group together and thought that we would send off couple of boxes with the aid needed. Little did I know that this would escalate to pallets and containers.

At the beginning we concentrated on winter clothes, shoes and hygiene packs, however at the end of November we were asked to provide little lights for zips on children’s coats, as they were unsafe in the darkness of the camps and some children had even fallen into the toilets.

In February 2016, I flew to Chios where I volunteered on the shore rescue team as well as in the registration camps.

This was one of the hardest but most rewarding moments of my life. Upon arrival back to the UK, things in Greece had changed as the borders were closed, leaving a bottle neck of people in Greece in even worse conditions than before. It became obvious that people were going to be staying in camps for the foreseeable future, so we started to look at the situation from holistic point of view, looking for opportunities to bring some normality to those camps.

We are involved in a few long term projects at the moment, concentrating on the women and children as they need the most help and support. For ladies we have Be Their Future- The Craft Project, where we supply wool, knitting needles, crochet hooks, fabric, cotton and much more.

This gives these ladies the chance to get together, forge friendships and support each other in dealing with the trauma they have experienced. It also gives the opportunity to bring awareness to the trafficking issues that are very real and common.

I am also very proud of our Back To School project. We

have found teachers in the camps which led to creating classrooms for children who had had their education disrupted or had never been to school at all. These kids are so eager to learn and we hope to support them in every way we can and to bring some normality and fun into their very difficult lives. Through donations we have been supplying school rucksacks with school supplies to get them started but there is much more we need to send.

What I am exceptionally proud of is that we are now sending aid not only to Greece but also Syria, Lebanon and soon to Jordan as well. But closest to my heart is our project in Turkey, supporting girls, some as young as four, kidnapped, genitally mutilated and raped by ISIS members, which has resulted in many very young girls becoming pregnant and having babies. As their bodies can’t cope with being a mum at such a young age, we are sending much needed cartons of ready-made milk as well as nappies, wet wipes and pouches of vegetarian baby food, clothes and other items every months to support them and show them love.”

Asked about her motivation Laura said: “Upon arrival back to the UK I knew that I must spread awareness about the suffering experienced by many. I have seen it. It’s real. I fully understand that there is poverty here too and we do what we can to help here too (donating to the food bank and refuge), but this poverty is like nothing you can imagine. Only last week two babies we know of died due to no milk being available.

For me it starts with the word Compassion. Compassion is not a feeling, it is not a sympathy, empathy or just feeling sorry for someone for a few moments until our own self takes over again. It is also not something someone else should do either.

Compassion is an action word, it is that moment when you see, are moved, understand, respond, ‘cross the road’ and get involved. It builds our character, rescues lives, gives permission to hope again, rebuilds and changes the world!

To donate or volunteer to help with shipments or for collection points contact Laura via Help for Leros on Facebook.

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23 23

Nature Focus

More about Bees by William S.Mundy

My last article about bees in the March issue of Dartford Living concluded with the question; “What use then are solitary and bumblebees you may ask? Both species are very useful pollinators and have different and very interesting life styles but that is the subject of my next article” To answer that question, let us first consider a quotation from Achim Steiner, Executive Director UN Environment Programme. “The way humanity manages or mismanages its nature-based assets, including pollinators, will in part define our collective future in the 21st century……The fact is that of the 100 crop species that provide 90 per cent of the world’s food, over 70 are pollinated by bees.”

He is speaking about bees in the general sense so let us consider how the various species operate. There are more than 250 species of native bees scattered throughout the British Isles of which 25% are listed as endangered species. About 90% of the 250 species are Solitary Bees and the majority of these are classified as Mining bees as they construct their nest in tunnels under-ground.

should certainly be avoided and every effort should be made to encourage them by suitable planting.

Within the remaining 10% of the species we find Mason bees, a group that locate cracks in concrete, brick or stonewalls in which they build their nests, and Leaf Cutter bees who use dry hollow tubes, holes in fence posts or sometimes burrow into the compost in hanging baskets.

They line the nests with leaves, cut from plants, especially roses, stuck together to form a water-tight tube into which their eggs are laid on a ball of pollen moistened with nectar How and where Bumblebees and Honey Bees live will be featured in later issues.

After mating only the female Solitary bee survives to find and build her own nest, stock it with a balls of pollen moistened with nectar and then lay her eggs on them, before sealing the nest. The first eggs she lays tend to be females at the back or bottom of the nest followed by the males. This is because the males need to hatch a few days before the females, as once they have emerged from the nest, they take several days to mature for mating.

Once the tunnels are all sealed with a plug of leaves, mud or hairs, the female mother bee will fly off and continue to drink nectar for a short period before dying in the Autumn. She will leave her off-spring to fend for themselves. Meanwhile in the nest, the eggs will hatch, feed on the pollen /nectar provided for them and then pupate (change into a cocoon or pupae) and remain in the nest until the following spring when the cycle is repeated.

Solitary Bees are excellent pollinators but will usually fly close to their nest, around about a 50 meter radius.

These bees do not sting and are safe around children.

Their habitat should always be left undisturbed, pesticides

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A Challenge of Mountainous Proportions

By Paige Smith A local husband and wife team have recently taken on a challenge of mountainous proportions, by climbing the three highest peaks in the UK, in just three days. As if this task wasn’t tough enough, the duo did it all in Rhino costumes that each weighed just over one and a half stone. The couple have both always been into wildlife and conservation, with Rhinos holding a special place in their heart. Andrew explained: “Rhinos are beautiful animals that are amazingly sensitive for their size. The plight of the Rhinos is also very worrisome; poaching has increased dramatically in recent years, and it is predicted that at the present rates there will be none left on the planet in ten years.”

This isn’t the first fundraiser the couple have taken part in for Save The Rhino, two years ago they were part of a 16 strong Rhino team, who ran the London Marathon.

Elizabeth Berry, a Scientist, and Andrew Berry, the Centre Manager at Horton Kirby Environmental Education Centre, first had the idea for the challenge last year.

Andrew explained: “We were at the top of Snowdon last October when we began to think about whether or not it would be possible, so it was very poignant that this was the last mountain of the challenge.”

On Monday 30th of May the pair began their task by climbing Ben Nevis, the highest peak in Scotland, which took ten hours. On the Wednesday they scaled Scafell Pike, the tallest mountain in England, which took six hours and finally on Friday 3 rd of June they ascended Wales’ tallest mountain, Mount Snowdon, in six hours.

Wearing the rhino suits caused a great deal of issues in itself because they were highly impractical, Andrew explained, “The suit pushes into your back on ascents and descent, added to which you have very limited vision due to only one small viewing point just above the costume’s head.This means you can only see about two metres in front of you and not what is immediately underfoot which

Local News results in constantly tripping over rocks. Another challenge was that with much of the costume’s weight at the front, you tend to be dragged forward. We even had an incident where we were almost blown off Scafell Pike - our support team had to hold on to us so that we wouldn’t take off.

Finally, with very few places in the costumes where heat can escape it gets very hot in there - around 30 degrees during all climbs and descents. We had been training around 6 times a week for five months in preparation for the climbs, including weekly runs of up to 25 miles, a minimum four hour hike carrying weights, and weight-training sessions. This particular challenge, although absolutely shattering, was such an amazing experience for everyone involved. The sense of achievement was rather overwhelming; there were times when we were lost for words at the generosity of the public, people from all over the world stopped us and gave us money, including children giving their pocket money - we collected nearly £450 during the climbs alone”.

The pair insists that it was a massive team effort and they couldn’t have succeeded without the help of a few people along the way and the support of the public.

Andrew said: “We made some great friends, like Berry White, a senior Rhino keeper from Port Lympne, who we had met at previous events, who drove up to the Lake District with her friend Helen Rhodes, head hoof stock keeper from Howletts. We were all joined by a lovely couple Steve and Wendy Gelder, and my best friend Colin Wallder and his soon-to- be wife, Andrea Cooley. The latter two assisted us with getting the outfits to the mountains, as well as providing water and food to us on the routes. It was such an exhilarating week, which captured the sense of adventure that we all have.

Most of all, the money raised will do so much good work protecting Rhinos and educating those that still believe that rhino horn has medicinal qualities (which it doesn’t – it is just like human hair)”.

To sponsor their good cause please visit : http:// uk.virginmoneygiving.com/team/AndyandLizBerry

in advertising?

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Stanhill Farm Birchwood Road, Wilmington, Dartford, Kent DA2 7HD Tel: 01322 669711

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EVERY SUNDAY 10:30AM STONE PAVILION A BRIGHT, MODERN AND GOD LOVING CHURCH, PASSIONATE ABOUT JESUS

WORSHIP, WORD, CHILDRENS FACILITIES, REFRESHMENTS AND DISABILITY ACCESS For more information please visit our website: www.crosswayscommunitychurch.co.uk Email: crosswayscommunitychurch@mail.com or join us every Sunday 10:30am at the Stone Pavilion, Greenhithe, Dartford, DA9 9DS.

Brownies Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning

FREE Estimates, Friendly Service Tel: 07900 368814 01322 226952 Email: browniescarpetclean@outlook.com

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Commercial & Domestic Cleaning • • • • • •

JJ Renovations Limited

Carpet Cleaning Kitchen Deep Cleans Extraction System Cleaning End of Tenancy Cleans Builders Cleans Spring Cleans Free Estimates - Fully Insured Telephone - 07889 641457

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McIntyre Clarke Limited Building & Electrical Contractors Property Maintenance

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33

Local News

Life Under The Stairs by Jane Stevenson

BERGERAC HAS A LOT TO ANSWER FOR!

I’m just back from a rather lovely week in Jersey, Channel Islands. The weather was extremely good. I got to dabble my toes in the sea, sit in solitary splendour on deserted beaches, watch flora, fauna and wildlife as well as sampling local seafood and other delicacies.

This island is virtually on our doorstep, being between the south coast of the UK and the north coast of France.

Our flight time was 32 minutes, not too bad even for a poor flier like me.

English is the main language, although most of the roads and villages are named in French. Jersey has a definite European feel to it, something vaguely Mediterranean. It’s usually warmer than the UK; the pace of life is slower – or that might be the effect of the imposed top speed limit of 40 miles per hour. It is quiet, but also has an abundance of attractions and a rich history.

Jersey is a strange place. It was the only part of the UK that Hitler managed to capture, and the reminders of

those fearsome times are dotted all around the island.

It can be a humbling experience to stand inside the observation towers, looking out for possible invaders, or stand by remaining gun emplacements. There is an underground hospital, built by slave labour. Even today, there are a series of lookout towers ringing the island.

Now they are mostly private houses, with only a memory of their initial purpose.. The grand Pomme d’Or Hotel, once the home of the German Naval command has been returned to its hotel status and faces Liberation Square and the harbour.

However, Jersey embraces its past, while adapting it to the future. The grey, forbidding defences now house several museums dedicated to telling the story of the island. There is a wealth of wildlife, amazing gardens with semi tropical plants and enough quality shops in St Helier for the most discerning shopaholic – and tax free too. There are local craftsmen, excellent walks and

tours and a sense of history evidenced by the Neolithic ritual site at La Hogue Bie and Samares Manor. For the sportier, St Ouens Bay is home to surfers, all too ready to take on the big Atlantic rollers that tumble over Jersey’s western shore. Throughout the year there are festivals and events to suit most people, from the Battle of Flowers to the Jersey Literary Festival.

Like many I was entranced by scenes of the island in the TV series ‘Bergerac’. While much has changed, in the name of progress. the essence of the island still remains. Small friendly villages, long walks through green and verdant valleys. History and progress hand in hand. It works well.

34

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SOCK IT TO ME Laundry! Mine seems to multiply even though the Youngest Offspring lives in student digs. Eldest Offspring has a uniform and OH needs a clean shirt daily. Fair enough – all manageable.

What I can’t get my head around are socks. Odd socks. I am one of those sad people who wash socks in pairs. So why do I end up with a stray, navy blue sock that no one lays claim to? I’ve offered to OH and Eldest Offspring. It’s too small for Youngest Offspring, (a size 10 in Converse and Vans) so where did it come from? Where’s it other half? Is it lonely? Whose is it?

corners of the room to be covered with dust, dead spiders and who knows what else.

Trouble is, I’m not brave enough to mount an expedition to the nether regions of the kids’ rooms. After all, they are both in their twenties and are responsible for their own laundry items. I’ll willingly wash their stuff but I’m not going to search for it first!

Today was a hollow victory. While all of the socks were matched, I have no idea who owns the fetching pink and blue underwear found sitting in the washing bin. No one here is claiming ownership! I guess I’ll have to put an ad in the Lost and Founds.

This state of affairs is not new at Stevenson Towers.

Even now, I have a small knitted yellow sock, with a pink pompom and some odd trainer socks. Goodness knows where their companions are. Does the washing machine eat them?

I did have one terrible thought, and that was all these odd foot coverings are lying under beds, or pushed into

Dartford Living

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Local CraftsNews

News In Brief

Healthwatch Kent Big Red Bus gathers views from the people of DARTFORD on local health & social care services

There ain’t no Fete like Stone Fete 2016 S Club Party, made up by original lead singers Jo O’Meara and Bradley McIntosh, will be taking to the stage to perform some of their classic pop hits such as ‘Don’t stop movin’, Never had a dream come true and ‘Reach’.

Also bringing their ‘Nu flow’ and ‘Favourite things’ to the stage are Big Brovas. The RnB and hip-hop band won best UK act at the 2003 MOBO awards.

Completing the trio is Dance duo Booty Luv, who had hits with ‘Boogie 2nite’, ‘Don’t mess with my man’, ‘Some Kinda Rush’ and ‘Shine’.

Healthwatch Kent today welcomed scores of visitors to their Big Red Bus in Dartford, to have their experiences of local health and social care services heard and recorded.

The independent voice for patients and social care users, Healthwatch Kent visited Dartford as part of a high profile tour of the county to both raise awareness of the not-forprofit organisation and gather data which will be used to improve health and social care across the region.

Dartford was the third stop for the mobile campaign which will pit stop in every Kent district over seven days.

In addition to sharing their views, visitors to the bus learnt about Healthwatch Kent’s current projects, including their work with Darent Valley Hospital plus had the opportunity to vote for Healthwatch’s future priorities.

Chief Executive, Healthwatch Kent, Steve Inett says, “We’ve had a great morning in Dartford and enjoyed a fantastic response from local people. We want more people to know who we are, and what we do, which is why it was brilliant to meet so many people in Dartford today.

Everything we heard from people about local services will be used to help improve services for other people. If you missed the bus, you can contact us anytime for free on 0808 801 0102 or email info@healthwatchkent.co.uk“.

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Taking place on Sunday 3rd July 2016, 12pm-6pm at Stone Recreation Ground. The free event, sponsored by Bluewater and the parish council, will see a jam-packed line-up of bands, dance troupes and theatre shows take to the stage.

With the line-up providing a real ‘pick-and-mix’ variety of entertainment and activities, the council is also dedicating this year’s event in memory of Kath Leydon, who served the Parish for 50 years at her sweet shop in London Road.

Parish Council Chairman John Burrell said, “Stone Fete is a big feature of our Stone Parish heritage, as is Leydon’s sweet shop which has served the parish for many decades.

As such, it seems a fitting tribute to dedicate this year’s Fete to Kath Leydon, who will be greatly missed by the local community.”

A wide selection of more than 60 stalls are already confirmed offering everything from cakes, confectionery and hot food to women’s clothing, hair accessories and tombola. Some limited availability is still available for pitches; stallholders should contact the council on 01322 384400 for further details.

The popular £5 ride-all-day funfair wristband is back and will include more rides and activities than ever before, including meet and greets with Disney Princesses and Dora the Explorer.

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Do your mealtimes feel like a juggling act?

Mealtimes can be a busy time for families and often residents find themselves trying to juggle many other tasks while trying to cook for everyone.

Whether its trying to get the kids organised or catching up with household chores, it is tempting to try to fit in other pressing jobs while waiting for food to cook.

There are many of other distractions that can cause you to take your eye off of your cooking: maybe the phone ringing or a text message or even a knock at the door.

Or maybe taking a few moments to catch the end of a favourite TV programme or to check your social media newsfeed or helping with homework… whatever the activity, you can be sure that it is preventing you from concentrating fully on your cooking.

In a hectic home it’s easy to get diverted for longer than you intended, and even forget all about your cooking.

For most of the time, the worst that may happen is that you burn the dinner, causing a bit of an inconvenience.

But sadly, as Kent Fire and Rescue Service (KFRS) knows only too well, unattended cooking can lead to a serious fire, that could result in severe damage to your home and may put you, and your family, at risk.

Unfortunately, over half of all the fires KFRS attends start in the kitchen and the majority are caused by unattended cooking, a build up of grease and fat on the cooker, or by kitchen mishaps, where items such as tea towels, chopping boards or washing baskets have been placed on a hot hob.

By taking a few moments to work out what is coming between you and a fire safe mealtime, you can avoid a fire of this type happening in your home.

Make fire safety your main ingredient and help prevent a kitchen fire in your home by following these tips: •Keep an eye on your cooking and remember to switch off your cooker if you have to leave the room •Use a timer for items placed in your oven or grill to remind when your food is done and to save it from burning •Plan and prepare - if you know you have a busy week

ahead, try and plan in advance and prepare meals that do not require lots of cooking •Avoid storing or placing household items on your cooker or stove •Keep your cooker, grill and oven clean to avoid a build up of grease and fat that could start a fire •Keep children and pets well away from you cooking area •Ensure electric cookers, toasters and microwaves are turned off at the mains when you have finished using them •Fit a working smoke alarm on each floor of your home and test it weekly to ensure it provides early warning in the event of a fire.

For further fire safety advice visit www.kent.fire-uk.org/ cooking or call 0800 923 7000.

BLUEWATER WELCOMES MINT VELVET & MICHAEL KORS Mint Velvet is to launch its first UK stand-alone store in a non-High Street location at Bluewater, Europe’s leading retail and leisure destination. Located on the lower Guildhall opposite Reiss, the 1,900 sq ft boutique will hold the brand’s latest womenswear collections, accessories and footwear.

Joining Mint Velvet is Michael Kors, the world-renowned and award-winning designer of luxury accessories and ready-to-wear fashion. The brand is to open a 2,800 sq ft boutique on the lower Guildhall as part of Land Securities’ strategy of creating a series of unique statement stores at Bluewater.

The Michael Kors store, situated adjacent to Aspinal and Hackett, will feature their complete product ranges including MICHAEL Michael Kors, as well as handbags, small leather goods, watches, jewellery, eyewear, and a selection of fragrances.

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Charity Focus

Each month we will be featuring a local charity. If you represent a charity and would like to be featured please email charity@dartfordliving.com

Arrow Riding Centre Arrow Riding Centre for the Disabled in Darenth was established in 1982 and is a member of the Riding for the Disabled Association. The Centre has charitable status and is entirely self-funded, needing to raise ÂŁ150,000 per year to stay open.

The main aim of the Centre is to provide therapeutic riding for children and adults who suffer from physical or mental disabilities. Some people ride for therapy, some in order to enjoy social interaction, while others ride competitively; lesson are tailored to the individual.

The age range of riders at the moment is 2-82 years old, it is almost never too early or too late to take up riding!

Currently the Centre provides approximately 100 lessons per week, but with a very long waiting list this number needs to keep increasing so more people can experience the benefit of riding.

The Centre is home to 22 horses, 12 of which are used for therapeutic riding. The Centre’s horses are chosen very carefully, with an even, kind, and patient temperament being of upmost importance. They are given plenty of time to get used to the unusual things they may encounter during lessons e.g mounting ramps, wheelchairs etc before starting their careers with us. The horse’s physical and mental well-being is constantly monitored to ensure they are as safe as they possibly can be while doing their job.

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Arrow employs 4 fulltime staff, several parttime staff and a many volunteers. There are 3 qualified instructors amongst the full-time staff and a further 3 voluntary instructors who regularly teach at Arrow, all of whom have suitable equine qualifications and therefore meet health and safety requirements.

Arrow does not have any paid administrators or fundraisers, these tasks are absorbed by the staff and volunteers, everyone is very good at multitasking!

At the helm is Valerie Blake who has been the voluntary Group Organiser for nearly 30 years, all of it unpaid.

Valerie was awarded the British Empire Medal this year for her services to Arrow, and for most of her time at the Centre her husband Ken has also given his time freely to act as Treasurer. Both of them are at the Centre 6 days a week, and sometimes 7! Their dedication knows no bounds, even though they should both be enjoying retirement.

On top of running the riding school Valerie has diversified into running conferences and the Centre is also home to 2

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very nice conference rooms. Why not book a conference with a view?!

During Valerie’s time at Arrow she has worked tirelessly to keep improving the facilities, and although incredible amounts have been achieved she still has big plans for this year and beyond. Although the Centre is lucky enough to have an indoor riding arena, fund raising has been taking place for many years in order to extend it. The extension would mean more lessons could take place, and also PARA level dressage competitions. There are also many other smaller projects which require funding and support to help improve the Centre for the riders.

different areas of work. Many of our volunteers form close friendships with people they would not otherwise have met, and enjoy an active social life through the Centre.

We are intending to hold an Open Day on Sunday 4th September where there will be fun for all the family. We hope to meet as many readers as possible.

In the meantime if you wish to become a rider, volunteer, or support a project in some way please contact the Centre on 01322 294390 or email arc@arrowridingcentre.com.

The Centre is also looking to recruit more volunteers to help cater for new riders. Some riders require someone to lead the horse, and a further 2 people to walk either side.

The Centre is highly reliant on volunteers to fulfil those roles, although if people would rather not be directly involved with lessons there are many different jobs that could be done by volunteers. Full training will be provided and further training days are run regularly, some of which are extremely interesting and could provide skills for

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Dhiren’s Automotive News

Automotive

In this month’s article we bring you new models available in 2016 including a new city car, electric model and small SUV

Ford KA+

and full electric. It is Hyundai’s rival for the latest Toyota Prius, Renault Zoe, Nissan Leaf and BMW i3. The majority of UK Ioniq buyers customers are likely to opt for the plug-in hybrid version, with the regular hybrid accounting for around 35% of sales, and the full EV taking just 15% of sales. As a regular hybrid, the Ioniq is powered by a 1.6-litre petrol engine working in conjunction with an electric motor, fed by a lithium-ion battery pack. As a plug-in hybrid, the Ioniq’s petrol engine is used to charge the battery when power reserves run low, and Ford has now taken the decision to axe the Ka from its the electric motor generates more power. In this form line-up and replace it with the new KA+. The five-door it will be able to run for 31 miles on electric alone. In hatchback is about the same size as a Ford Fiesta - though pure electric form, the Ioniq is claimed to be capable of is slightly taller - and is claimed to offer almost the same travelling 155 miles on a single charge with a 103 mph seats-up storage space, so you should be able fit two top speed. The Ioniq’s interior is said to include a central suitcases in the boot. Buyers in the UK can only specify infotainment screen for functions like satellite navigation, one engine, though it comes in two power outputs. The a wireless charging mat for mobile phones and drivers 1.2-litre petrol unit can be had in either 69bhp or 84bhp can control their smartphones from the screen using the form, although only the higher-powered engine will be Apple CarPlay and Android Auto apps. Prices will start fromcontacting around £22,000 for the hybrid model and will go 30 Please manual mentiongearbox Dartfordwill Living our advertisers offered at launch. A five-speed be when on sale from later this year. offered as standard. The list of standard equipment for the KA+ includes six airbags, hill start assistance, an AM/ FM radio with Bluetooth connectivity and a speed limiter.

MG GS SUV Buyers can also add optional extras including climate This is MG’s first SUV control, a leather steering wheel and climate control. model will take on With prices due to start at £8,995, the new KA+ will the likes of the Nissan be no more expensive than the current Ka, and around Qashqai, Mazda CX-5 £1,300 cheaper than the current Fiesta and goes on sale and Hyundai Tucson in October 2016. and will sit alongside the MG 3 hatchback 2016 Hyundai Ioniq and MG 6 saloon. MG has confirmed the car will come with a 1.5-litre petrol engine with around 168bhp, and will be available with both manual and automatic gearbox options. A more powerful 217bhp 2.0-litre petrol engine is also likely to be offered, as well as a 1.9-litre diesel engine with 148bhp.

Interior features are likely to include the a touchscreen infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay functionality and options such as rear-facing parking camera, parking sensors and climate control. The GS significantly undercuts The Ioniq is being billed as the first car to be available its rivals with a starting price of just £14,995 in the UK with three different powertrains: hybrid, plug-in hybrid and available on sale now.

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Gardening

Gardening Hints and Tips July Plants of the Month - Fuchsias

square yard per week – use a lawn sprinkler set on a timer to avoid wasting water and making your water bill shoot up.

Tomatoes Tomatoes are our favourite home-grown vegetable and a little care and attention now will ensure bumper crops throughout the summer. Make sure your plants are well supported – tying them in as they grow, remove sideshoots from upright cordon varieties, remove yellowing or dying leaves and watch out for pests and diseases, then treat accordingly. Feed weekly with a liquid tomato fertiliser and water regularly so that the compostor soil remains evenly moist.

Make sure your garden is bursting with colour this summer with our plants of the month. There’s plenty to choose from for long-lasting interest including Fuchsias, Roses, Penstemons, Lavatera, Lavender and Spiraea. And don’t forget our huge range of summer-flowering herbaceous perennials.

Herbs If you love cooking indoors or are spending the long, sunny days and evenings barbecuing, then you’ll appreciate having plenty of fresh, tasty herbs. If you don’t have room in the rest of the garden, then plant up a herb pot with all your culinary favourites so they’re easily to hand when you need them. From Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme to Basil and Mint we have all the herbs you’ll need for a potpourri of scents and tastes.

Lawns If your lawn is looking tired and run down, give it a boost now with a liquid feed. And where weeds or moss are a problem use a liquid feed, weed and moss killer. Keep mowing regularly when the grass is growing to ensure it looks its best. You can leave small clippings on the lawn as they will help conserve soil moisture. But when a good soak is needed – lawns use around 4 gallons of water per

Weeds Weeds can soon take over the garden and not only do they look unsightly, but they can smother your prized plants, steal valuable water and nutrients from the soil and become hosts to pests and diseases.

Now’s the time for an all-out assault on them using a hoe for annuals and small weeds, mulches and planting membranes to keep beds and borders permanently weed free and weedkillers to stop even the most persistent weeds taking over. Use a weedkiller based on glyphosate for persistent, deep-rooted perennials.

Plant buying tips If you have colour gaps in your beds, borders and containers now is a good time to plug them. Treat you and your garden to an eye-catching tree or specimen plant like a tree fern, Fatsia Japonica, Phormium or grasses. Or if your garden is looking a bit flat put up an arch, pergola or trellis and cover it with colourful climbers. Look out for our instant colour suggestions from our wide range of shrubs, herbaceous plants and seasonal bedding. And if your patio is looking tired or colourless pop insome large container plants for instant impact.

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in association with

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Fitness How to enjoy a dessert as part of your healthy diet?

If you’re like most people you enjoy a dessert. The common belief would be that this is against your “Diet” rules; a sin or “cheat” meal, or something you have to save up points for… but there are ways to include these foods into a healthy diet without guilt or ruining your hard work.

Firstly, and perhaps most obviously, try not to have these too often. If you’re struggling to cut them out however then the diet is not sustainable, so whilst you should try to cut down on these, there’s no need to cut them out completely if that’s not something you’re willing or able to do.

Pudding after dinner every night may be too much. If you’re struggling to lose weight, drop this down to 2 or 3 nights a week instead of 7. You’re not losing them entirely and still enjoying desserts, just not so often. This should be easier to cope with and a more long-term approach.

Secondly, make sure you count these as part of your meal.

Carb-rich desserts are exactly that – extra calories and sugars.

Count these into your meal and you’ll stay on target (if calorie counting or portion sizes are your preferred method of controlling food intake). If you’re planning to have a pudding, remove the starchy carbs from your dinner i.e. if you want cheesecake after dinner, don’t have chips with your dinner!

Keep to proteins and fats (meat/eggs etc.), and fibrous carbs (veg) for your main meal, then count the dessert as the carbohydrate portion of your meal. We don’t need to cut carbs out, but double servings of high-carb foods at a meal won’t do you any favours unless you’re running a marathon tomorrow!

options are a better choice, but depending on your current state of mind, this may be the easiest starting point.

Whilst it’s not quite as simple as “burn more calories than you eat”, you can’t lose weight without a calorie deficit. So cutting out 3 or 4 desserts a week (still leaves you 3 or 4!), and also choosing a healthier, lower calorie option or smaller portion, will add up to a decent drop in calories each week.

Use these same principles for all your meals (try and pick the healthier option 50% of the time), and add in some extra exercise activity, and you’ll be hitting your goals in no time.

As these things get easier, to the point it’s no effort at all, you can start to make more small but beneficial changes to keep things moving forward. Steady, incremental improvements are easy to sustain for the long-haul.

If you need more help with your diet get in touch – I have various options that will help you master your diet and exercise patterns, including an exciting and very effective nutrition coaching program that will help you gain control of your eating habits and give you support all the way through the process.

By Mark Broadbent, Master Personal Trainer & Instructor at Dartford Bootcamps.

Visit www.DartfordBootcamps.com for information on Personal Training, Nutrition coaching or Bootcamp Fitness classes. - MarkOneFitness.blogspot.comAnd follow us on Facebook and Twitter (do it now……) for extra tips, advice and motivation.

Thirdly, choose the lesser evil. If your choice of desserts is between a piece of fruit or a bowl of profiteroles, the fruit is going to be the better option. Whilst choosing what you like is nice (and necessary sometimes), it’s best to choose an option you’ll also enjoy, but won’t feel so bad about afterwards.

A fourth option is simply to have less of your chosen dessert.

If you simply can’t go without [at the moment], then cutting the portion size of your dessert down will create a significant reduction in calories over the course of the week, and you haven’t missed out on anything at all. Obviously the previous

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Small Business

Capital Gains Tax - Limited Companies Each month Paul Conradi, Chartered Accountant from Conradi Morrison & Co will be giving us his professional advice for small businesses.

Allowance at all.

An individual cannot take advantage of the Indexation Allowance and only incorporated companies such as any limited company can benefit from this. At present the Indexation Allowance is not very beneficial as inflation is low but in times of high inflation, it might be well worth considering buying assets in a limited company.

As your local Accountant, I would be very glad to meet you As your local Accountant, I would be very glad to meet you and discuss the possibility of tax planning in your business.

For more information, please see page two of this month’s Dartford Living and feel free to call me on 01322 278188 to arrange a meeting without charge.

Due to the tax law changes in respect of rental properties, a number of clients have recently asked me about Capital Gains tax for limited companies. The calculation of Capital Gains tax for limited companies and for individuals is exactly the same. However, once the gain has been calculated, it is added to the rest of the company’s profits for Corporation tax. The company’s profit including the gain is then charged at the same rate of tax (which is currently 20%) which you may note for the year 2016/2017 is the same rate for Capital Gains tax for individuals earning above £32,000. Although for individuals there is a higher rate of Capital Gains tax when selling second properties.

Companies do not have the benefit of the annual exempt amount like individuals, however they do have the benefit of an Indexation Allowance which can be deducted from the gain. This allowance is to counteract the effect of inflation on assets purchased. To calculate the Indexation Allowance which can be deducted from the gain you can use the table on the HMRC website. Whilst it can reduce the gain from the sale of the asset by the limited company, it cannot turn any gain into a loss or increase a loss that is already there.

Therefore, if the gain is reduced to nil or less, you treat the gain as nil. If you had a loss you do not apply the Indexation

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Local Sports News

DARTFORD FC REAL FOOTBALL, REAL CLOSE

v Millwall

Tuesday 19th July, 7:45pm

v Gillingham

Tuesday 26th July, 7:45pm

v Norwich City XI Saturday 30th July, 1pm

Admission Prices: Adults: £10 Concessions: £5 Children: £2

3 Match Ticket: Adults: £24 Concessions: £12 Children: £5

#dartsfc

www.dartfordfc.com | info@dartfordfc.com | 01322 299991

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2016 HOME FIXTURES AT HESKETH PARK

7TH MAY- 12PM START- DARTFORD 2ND XI V FOLKESTONE C.C 14TH MAY- 12PM START- DARTFORD 1ST XI V BLACKHEATH C.C 21ST MAY- 12PM START- DARTFORD 2ND XI V TUNBRIDGE WELLS C.C 28TH MAY- 12PM START- DARTFORD 1ST XI V LORDSWOOD C.C 4TH JUNE - 12PM START- DARTFORD 1ST XI V BROMLEY C.C 11TH JUNE - 12PM START- DARTFORD 2ND XI V BEXLEY C.C 18TH JUNE - 12PM START- DARTFORD 2ND XI V SEVENOAKS VINE C.C 25TH JUNE - 12PM START- DARTFORD 1ST XI V TENTERDEN C.C 2ND JULY - 12PM START- DARTFORD 2ND XI V HARTLEY C.C 9TH JULY - 12PM START- DARTFORD 1ST XI V BECKENHAM C.C 16TH JULY - 12PM START- DARTFORD 2ND XI V ORPINGTON C.C 23RD JULY - 12PM START- DARTFORD 1ST XI V TUNBRIDGE WELLS C.C 30TH JULY - 12PM START- DARTFORD 2ND XI V WHITSTABLE C.C 6TH AUG - 12PM START- DARTFORD 2ND XI V BROMLEY C.C 13TH AUG - 12PM START- DARTFORD 1ST XI V BEXLEY C.C 20TH AUG - 12PM START- DARTFORD 1ST XI V SEVENOAKS VINE C.C 27TH AUG - 12PM START- DARTFORD 2ND XI V SANDWICH TOWN C.C 3RD SEPT - 12PM START- DARTFORD 1ST XI V HARTLEY C.C

Bav’s Sporting Comment

Upcoming events in JUNE include:

The Greatest!

Last month thousands attended a farewell procession for boxing legend Muhammad Ali in his home city of Louisville, in the US state of Kentucky. Onlookers lining the roadside waved, took photos and chanted “Ali, Ali” as a cortege led by the hearse carrying his coffin drove through the downtown area. The heavyweight champion and rights activist died aged 74.

3-7: Cricket - England v Pakistan, third Test, Edgbaston

Muhammad Ali was a fighter all his life, both in and out of the ring. He initially found fame as a champion boxer, celebrated for his unorthodox ring style and witty talk before, during, and after fights.

20: Cricket - T20 Blast Finals Day, Edgbaston

But Ali’s charisma and commitment to social and political causes saw him transcend boxing to become one of the most famous people on the planet, at a time when black people lacked basic civil rights in America.

26-28: Formula 1 - Belgian Grand Prix, SpaFrancorchamps

5-21: Olympic Games, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil 11-15: Cricket - England Pakistan, fourth Test, The Oval 13: Football - Premier League season starts

24, 27, 30 and 1 & 4 Sept: Cricket - England v Pakistan ODIs

29-11 Sep: Tennis - US Open, New York

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Local News

Bag a Bargain and Support a Great Causes by Michelle Deogun

Life changed two years ago when our son, Archie was born. Myself and my husband Sat were suddenly thrown into the roller-coaster ride of being a new parent!! Part of this new, crazy journey was the induction into the ‘Nearly New Sales’ frequented by many parents in the hope of finding bargains that you are specifically either looking for or something you never knew you needed until that moment it was being sold at a knock down price!!!

I then began to notice there was hardly any sales being held in Dartford. Definitely a gap in the market for my local area I thought. So, after nearly two years experience as a buyer I decided to start up the ‘Bumps, Bubbas and Beyond Children’s Market”. I wanted a central Dartford venue with good parking & connections to the local community. I approached Dartford FC and they loved my idea. Before I knew it, my first “Bumps, Bubbas and Beyond Children’s Market” was held on Sunday April 10th.

We’d 23 stalls with the majority being nearly new sellers and had over 80 buyers visit the event. Feedback was positive and primarily about how buyers loved the large space and being able to move around freely especially those with double buggies.

I was so excited and proud of myself for such a successful first sale that I booked the second event for Sunday 31st July, 1-4pm at Dartford FC. Again, the response has been amazing and are currently booking up stalls. We will also have Peppa Pig and one of her minion friends joining us.

At this point, I sat down and thought about what I wanted to do in relation to future events. Where was I wanting to go with this business venture? This probably sounds crazy but I just enjoy hosting the events and I’d like to put something back into our community and help others. Therefore, I decided that all future events will have a nominated charity or local support group to which all the proceeds from stall bookings and entrance fee’s will be donated to. So, I announced my news via the Facebook Group page and was so happy with all the positive comments.

Our event on Sunday 31st July will be donated to Microtia UK. This charity is very close to my heart as Archie has Microtia Atresia. Minutes after he was born we found out he had Microtia and didn’t have any idea what it was. He was born with a normal functioning left ear but his right ear is a lot smaller with no ear canal so he is deaf on the right side. Archie wears a ‘Bone Anchored Hearing Aid’ (BAHA) on a soft band which he wears like a headband. The BAHA transmits sound directly to the cochlear so he can hear on the right side. This will be worn until he has surgery around 4-5yrs old to attach the BAHA directly to his skull.

Microtia UK help support parents like us to understand about the complexities of Microtia and in turn help us to support our children through their life. Although Microtia UK do not have a local support group, I’ve met several local families through the charities events and Facebook group. They hold Microtia ‘mingles’ throughout the UK for us all to get together, meet surgeons, specialists and others who have microtia or family & friends who support those with Microtia. It’s an amazing charity and I don’t know where we’d be without them.

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Looking forward, our event on 20th November 2016 will be a Childrens Christmas Market. We will be donating to The Willow Ward at Darenth Valley Hospital. Dr Who fans watch this space for a very special announcement!!

Our first event of 2017 on Sunday 26th February will be donating to ‘Mummies on the Mend’ which is a small local support group for mothers suffering from Post Natal Depression. Our event on Sunday 28th May 2017 will be donating to Little Buds at Darenth Valley Hospital. We then also have events on 27th August and 26th November 2017 and will announce the charities / local groups we’ll be donating to over the next few months.

‘BumpsBubbasBeyond@hotmail.com’.

We all know babies are expensive, parenthood can be overwhelming and sometimes we all need some help and advice. Let’s get together and help others in our local community. My aim at these events are to bring us all together, grab a few bargains and also raise money for great causes. After all, you never know one day you or someone close may need the help of these charities or support groups.

Everyone is welcome at our events, mums, dads, grandparents, expectant parents & grandparents!! We have stalls ranging from pregnancy then from birth up to around 10yrs old. Something for everyone.

Feel free to join the Facebook group “Bumps, Bubbas and Beyond Children’s Market” to keep up-to-date with all news of upcoming sales. Also, if you’d like to get involved with any events get in touch via the Facebook or email

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Competition

orchardtheatre.co.uk Ticket Office 01322 220000

THE SOUND OF MUSIC 27TH SEPT - 1ST OCT 2016 Bill Kenwright’s production of one of the greatest family musicals of all time, The Sound of Music, is delighted to announce it will be at the The Orchard Theatre from Tuesday 27 September – Saturday 1 October.

BBC1’s The Voice runner-up and award-nominated Lucy O’Byrne continues in the role of Maria in this spectacular five-star production.

Dartford Living and The Orchard have teamed up to offer a pair of tickets to this show, To be in with a chance of winning this fantastic prize just answer the following question...

In what country is the Sound of Music set?

A) Austria B) Germany C) Switzerland D) Italy

Send the answer to Dartford Living, 7 St Ronans View, Dartford, DA1 1QD or email competition@dartfordliving.com This competition closes on 15th July. Good luck!

RULES: 1. The winner(s) will be the first correct entry/entries drawn. 2. The judge’s decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. 3. Prizes are as stated and no cash in lieu or an alternative prize will be offered. 4. Proof of posting will not be regarded as proof of delivery. 5. Winners will be notified by telephone by the Orchard, 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.

MATT CARDLE INTIMATE AND LIVE TOUR AT THE ORCHARD THEATRE

stopping stage performance alongside Beverly Knight in the acclaimed West End production, Memphis.

June 2016 saw winner of The X Factor and Brit Award nominee Matt Cardle launch his sensational UK-wide tour.

As the resounding winner of The X Factor’s highest rating series, his breath taking four octave vocal range stunned millions of people in homes across the UK. Having since sold over 2 million records in the UK and seen all three of his albums reach the Top 10; Matt could easily have been content with the achievements of a lifetime. But since his spectacular introduction to the UK charts in 2010, he has tirelessly sought out new and impressive avenues through which to exercise his vocal and songwriting talent.

As this impressive inventory suggests, one of the key factors of Matt’s enduring appeal is his remarkable versatility, and the Intimate & Live Tour has been specially devised to showcase this rare musical and creative dexterity. The clue to the tour’s character is in its name. A powerful performer who commanded a crowd of 2 billion in Bali back in 2013, on this tour Matt will sing for closer, cosier crowds but with no less passion and intensity.

In addition to his acclaimed output as a solo artist, Matt has also shown a keen intuition for collaboration: from his Top 10 hit Loving You with pop royalty Melanie C, to his more recent live performances with double MOBO award winning saxophonist YolanDa Brown. Perhaps the most unique among his recent achievements is his 2015 award for Best West End Debut, won for his show

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The show will be at The Orchard Theatre on Tuesday 19 July. Pre-show dining is also available before the show. The Orchard Theatre’s Restaurant provides a delicious range of, unique and memorable dishes, using the freshest local produce and prepared daily by the Head Chef. Reserve your table when booking your show tickets.

To book tickets or for more information visit orchardtheatre.co.uk or call the Ticket Office on 01322 220000.

Please mention Dartford Living when contacting our advertisers

Local Entertainment News

June/ July Theatre Roundup

by Liz Dyer

As another month comes to an end (it’s July… how is it already July?!), let’s take a quick look back at June’s theatrical highlights, which included the brilliantly bonkers Rocky Horror Show (raise your hand if you dressed up), nostalgia fest Jackie The Musical, comedy from Adam Hills, Jimmy Carr and Graeme of Thrones, and the latest fantastic production from the Orchard Youth Theatre, Myth’d.

Turning our attention to this month and as always, there’s lots to look forward to in Dartford and beyond: The Orchard has something for every kind of music lover, kicking off with the ultimate Beatles tribute, Let It Be (27th June-2nd July), which crams over 40 classic hits into one sensational evening. X Factor winner and musical theatre star Matt Cardle will be ‘Intimate and Live’ on 19th July, and Brit Award winners Blake perform on the 21st, followed by rock n roll legends Showaddywaddy on the 22nd.

But that’s not all the Orchard has to offer in July. Take a backstage tour followed by afternoon tea on the 18th, then why not stick around for an evening of hilarity with the brilliant Sarah Millican? For the grown-ups, there’s something called Puppetry of the Penis, ‘The Ancient Australian Art of Genital Origami’, on 29th July (no, I don’t know either) and for the kids, a chance to see real live dinosaurs - sort of - in Dinosaur Zoo from 24th-26th.

Changeling Theatre are back with romantic comedy She Stoops to Conquer in Central Park on 27th July; it’s only £5 for Dartford residents, so don’t miss out! Hopefully it

won’t rain - but even if it does, the show must (and will) go on… Tickets will also be available to book this month - free! - for August’s outdoor cinema nights, which will include The Lion King and Saturday Night Fever. Check out the Dartford council website for more details.

A little further afield, the Churchill Theatre in Bromley will be welcoming the fabulous All Male HMS Pinafore from 11th-13th July. I saw this show when it was in London and it’s brilliant, whether you’re a Gilbert and Sullivan fan or not (it was my first time and I loved it). Then from 20th-24th the Churchill will be home to David Walliams’ Gangsta Granny, a fun-filled adventure for the whole family from the producers of Horrible Histories.

And finally - now that the longest day is behind us, Christmas will be here before we know it (you’re welcome), so don’t forget you can already book your tickets for this year’s panto at the Orchard, Snow White, starring Joe Pasquale. (And why not pick up some gift vouchers at the same time - it’s a great present for theatre-loving friends, and you can boast that you’ve finished all your Christmas shopping in July. Win!) You can also book now for Bromley’s panto, Peter Pan starring Craig Revel Horwood, or to see Blue’s Antony Costa in Jack and the Beanstalk at Gravesend’s Woodville Halls.

Merry Christmas!!

Read more of my theatre musings at theblogoftheatrethings. com

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Dartford Living

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

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

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Please mention Dartford Living when contacting our advertisers Please mention Dartford Living when contacting our advertisers

Dartford Living recently announced an online business directory for the local area.

We are aiming to make this new website the premier online place to find a business or service in Dartford and the surrounding area. The site is easy to navigate and simple to search for local businesses and services.

We are offering a listing in the directory for an introductory price of just £20 for the whole year (reduced from £99). It’s even cheaper if you are a Dartford Living advertiser at just £10. This offers exceptional value for money with other local directory listings starting from in excess of £200!

As part of your listing you will receive a dedicated page for your business that can contain a description of the business, all your contact details including social media links, a Google map to your premises, any special offers and photos of your products and services.

WWW.DARTFORDBUSINESSDIRECTORY.CO.UK in advertising?

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Dimples Day Nursery, Green Street Green Road, Darenth, Kent, DA2 7HT - Limited 2, 3 and 4 year old Full day care places for September 2016 - Team Leader for 2-3year old room vacancy - Level 3 nursery nurse vacancy (must have current working knowledge and experience)

For further information email enquiries@dimplesnursery.co.uk or call 01322 285885

www.dimplesnursery.co.uk