Dartford Living October 2015

Dartford Living

www.dartfordliving.com October 2015 - Issue 112

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DOADS at The Orchard

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On Course Foundation

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Plus - All your regular

features, puzzles, events, information and much, much more in your new 48 page issue.

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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Contents

Dear Readers,

A big October hello from everyone at Dartford Living! We hope you enjoy this month’s expanded magazine, with more pages than ever before. 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 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, Darent Valley Hospital, Stephen Oliver Art Gallery, numerous health centres and all of the local Barclays branches. The ‘Previous Editions’ section of the Dartford Living website (www.dartfordliving.com) 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! Over 4,000 local people already do this!

6-13....................... .................... What’s on 14...................................... Useful numbers 18.................................Community Library 19..........................................Low Cost Vets 20.................................Linklaters Opticians 21.........................Dartford Living meets...

28.................................Thoughts of a local 28...........................Volunteering Day DSTC 30.....................................Max Makerspace 32-33............Cake Bake Show - John Waite 34.........................................................FCA 35..............................Oktoberfest Dartford 36-37.....................................Charity Focus 38..............................................Auto News 39.........................Tips for a small business 40....................................................Sudoku 41........................................Gardening Tips 42............................................Sports News 44...........................DOADS @ The Orchard 45..........................................Competitions

YOUR NEXT DEADLINE IS 12TH OCTOBER

Advertising

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

Until next time, Vijay

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

(and Annie, Bhavesh, Christine, David, Dhiren, Elaine, Joanne, Ken, Kelly, Liz, Mark, Nickki, Pete, Peter, Richey and the rest of the fantastic Dartford Living volunteer team)

David Shafford Magazine/ Website design and Sales

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

www.dartfordliving.com

Advertising from only

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

£26 p/m

Dartford Living

3

AJ’S DOG SALON

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AJ's Dog Salon, the professional dog grooming service based in Swanley, Kent. Fully qualified, caring dog groomers who love your animals as much as you do.

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One to one care DIY Bathing Pick up/drop off by arrangement Caring animal lover’s

AJ's Dog Salon, Robimaur Farm, Clement Street Swanley, Kent. BR8 7PQ Telephone: 07702 730435 www.ajdoggrooming.co.uk

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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

ACCOUNTANTS, FINANCE & LEGAL Conradi Morrison & Co .....................................................2 Dartford Legal .................................................................31 GF+Co......................................................23 Lynton & Co ........................................................................5 BUILDERS, DECORATORS ROOFING, KITCHENS & WINDOWS 4k Building Services.........................................................47 A Baines & Son Roofing.....................................................26 Claremont Decorative Services.. .................................46 John Hargreaves Building...................................................25 Steve Cook - Double Glazing............................................16 Trade2Trade Windows ............................................19 and 45 CLEANING SERVICES ASK..................................................................................24 COSMETIC, BEAUTY & HEALTH Amazincare....................................................................... 35 Dia Wipes.. ............................................................17 Lipo Angel.........................................................................27 Jo’s Reflexology..................................................................22 EDUCATION Kip McGrath.. .........................................................29 Leaders are Readers...........................................................15 ENTERTAINMENT VENUE Orchard Theatre Groups................................................12 ELECTRICIANS AES Electricians...............................................................4 ESTATE AGENTS GPS Lettings....................................................................17 Wisdom Estates..............................................................33 FARM SHOP Stanhill Farm. .....................................................................24 GARAGES & VEHICLE SERVICES Shenley Road Garage..........................................................22 GARDENING SERVICES Hawley Garden Centre .......................................................31 HEATING AND PLUMBING JA Projects........................................................................29 JEWELLERY Bradleys............................................................................26 LOCKSMITHS/HOME SECURITY Dartford Locksmith.............................................................39 LEGAL SERVICES Dartford Legal .................................................................34 LOGISTICS FD TRANSPORT ...........................................................47 MUSIC/DANCE & FITNESS Dartford Bootcamps............................................................4 Dartford Wing Chung .........................................................43

Monkey Music.. ..........................................................7 the gym ..............................................................................1 OPTICIANS Linklater Opticians.............................................................16 PET CARE AJ Dog Salon.....................................................................16 Easipetcare...............................................................25 Kingly’s Dog Grooming........................................................31 PICTURE FRAMING Craft Frames.. ...........................................................39 PLASTERERS Craig Baker...................................................................34 SPORTS Stone Lodge Bowls Club.....................................................43 Dartford FC........................................................................44 Dartford Valley Rugby Club..................................................44 STOVES AND FIREPLACES The Stove and Fireplace ....................................................19 VOLUNTEERING West Kent Befriending Service.......................................37

Interested inTel: advertising?

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

01322 507817 www.dartfordliving.com Dartford Living

55

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

MONDAY S 10:30am - 11:00am & Friday 2:15pm - 2:45pm at Dartford Library - Baby Bounce & Rhyme Time TUESDAY S 2 sessions, from 9.30-10.30am and 10:45 - 11:45am in Fleetdown FC Hall; Heath Lane, Dartford. Contact Judi: 07970 730736. ALSO RUN SAME PLACE/TI ME ON THURSDAYS 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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MUSIC UMBRELLA

Classes for under-fives teaching the basic elements of music through whole body movement, using the Dalcroze and Kodaly methods. With action songs and games, using percussion instruments and props like hoops, balls and soft toys, the children develop musical, physical and social awareness, concentration, co-ordination and confidence - and have lots of fun! Becket Sports Centre, Thursdays during term time: babies and toddlers: 9.15 till 9.55; 3 and 4 year-olds: 10.00 till 10.40 Contact Myrtle : 07763 378451 Email : myrtlebm@hotmail.co.uk

DARTF ORD LADIE S PROBU S 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

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.

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

Dartford Living

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Where to go locally...

Dartford Bellringers Holy Trinity Church, High Street, Wednesdays 8.00-9.30p.m. Free tuition with a very friendly, sociable group. The ideal way to make new friends. Phone Ester 01322 220458 or email: esther.correia1@btinternet.com

AND LEARN KICK BOXING KARATE!

th Kent’s Come and Join one of Nor Martial ul essf succ t mos and fastest tion, Arts clubs. For more informa just or 104 513 03 079 on call Saj ions come along to one of our sess t mos the h Wit fun! the in and join ’ll reasonable fees around, you rdable find that training can be affo our too! For all details please visit website www.northkentkarate.com

...local events, clubs & groups LITTLE TIGERS - KARATE FOR

Erith Youth Rugby

Sunday 10:45-12:00, Sussex Road Erith.

Ages 4-16 welcome 07903 590515

Dartford Orienteering Club

For more details see www.dfok.co.uk 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.

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

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

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.

3, 4 & 5 YEAR OLDS Sundays 10:15-10:45 at Swanscombe Leisure Centre.

Call Saj on 07903 513104

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

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.

Dartford & District Stamp Club Hold regular meetings in The Meeting Place, The Orchard Shopping Centre, Dartford.

Details from Steve Alpe 01322 284491 or email steve_alpe@hotmail.com

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

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

Would you like to promote a local activity on the “Where to go locally...” page?

If so, email your suggestions to editor@dartfordliving.com The West Kent Book Club meets once a month on Saturday mornings at Dartford Library. For more information, please call 07860 963333 or find us at www.meetup. com/West-Kent-BookClub/

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

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

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

WEST HILL MOR RIS

Come and join your local Morris side, dancing and performing in Dartford, Gravesend and Bexley areas and throughout Kent in the Summer. We are a mixed and very sociable side, and can always find room for new dancers and musicians. It’s a great way of keeping fit and you’ll be helping to conserve a great English tradition. We practice alternate Tuesday evenings at Bexley, from September to April, then dancing out at pubs, clubs and fetes, throughout Kent, from May to August. Private Bookings taken. Contact Alison on 01322 862298, e-mail alisondukes@ btinternet.com

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

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.

Age UK, Crayford library Pop in Parlour coffee morning every Friday morning 10.30 - 12.30 Tea, Coffee, Biscuits and a chat - Just £1 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 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 RSPCA KENT, NORTH WEST BRANC H FREE MICRO CHIPP ING

RSPCA Kent, North West Branch, offers free micro chippings for all domestic animals at its clinic at 37 Gordon Road, Dartford, Kent, DA1 2LX on the 1st Saturday in each month, 10am to 12.30pm. The service is free but donations are appreciated. For more information 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

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

...local events, clubs & groups 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.

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.

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

Coach Martin - 07944 730634.

All ages from 7 years to adult welcome

The Rotary Club of the North Downs

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

SHORNE COUNTRY PARK – 5K WALK 27th September 2015 Annual 5K walk, all proceeds will go to support our clients and help improve and maintain the services that we offer for those living with Alzheimers or Dementia and the carers, families and friends.

- Meet at Shorne Country Park at 10:00am

- Walk Starts at 11:00am promptly For more details please call Angela Farrell the walk organiser on 01474 533990 or 07903664873

They meet at the Holiday Inn, Black Prince, Thursday evenings

7:30pm for 7:45pm for Dinner and fellowship. For details phone 07759 863836.

North West Kent Family History Society

The Dartford Branch meet at the Technology College, Heath Lane, For more information see www.nwkfhs.org.uk

DART FORD LIONS CLUB

1st Tuesday of every month Dartford Conservative Club Spital Street, Dartford DA1 2DT. Meeting start at 20:00.

Further details call Cathy 01322 618640

Dartford Art Group

We meet every Thursday evening from 7.30-9.30pm.

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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The Rendezvous Club (50+)

Every Monday Time: 8pm - 10pm Location: The Pop in Parlour, Graham Road, Bexleyheath DA6 7EG we enjoy a Description: We are a friendly social group open to anyone over fifty. As a social group number of activities including bingo, a Beatle drive, quizzes, to name but a few.

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

Admission: ÂŁ2.50 per week. Annual membership ÂŁ6 (payable in January ) Tel: 01322 287356 or 020 8304 6414

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

PAVI LION PLAY ERS

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!

The Ente

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The L All-St

Superb corporat packages available

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

Dartford Living

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Eynsford C

Where to go locally...

scounts

...local events, clubs & groups SCRA PPY DAYS! A SCRA PBOO KING GROU P

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

NHS RET IRE MEN T FEL LOW SHI

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

For more information contact Marion on 01322 402967

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.

LOCAL DOG TRAINING SCHOOL

Established for 36years - No Expensive courses Puppies from 3months - Older dogs any age.

Tel. Barbara for more details 01322 663956

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.

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DART FORD U3A (UNI VERS ITY OF THE THIR D AGE)

meets on the first Tuesday of every month (except August) at St Anselm’s Church Hall, West Hill, Dartford at 2pm. For information about meetings and interest groups call 01474709068 or visit our website.

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/

a b c +=

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 £5.50 per class 07768 447657 for more info www.facebook.com/littlebrightsparks http://www.babysign.org.uk/

COLUMBINE CHINA PAIN

1st Dartford Scout group

Are you interested in becoming a Scout leader?

TERS CLUB

meets on the 1st and 3rd Thu rsday each month at Sutton at Hone Village Hall . 1.30pm until 4.30pm. £2.0 0 per afternoon. £10.00 yearly fee.

We are a small, friendly club , not expensive. Tuition give n. All supplies can be bought in situe. Com e 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 0147 4 707357.

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.

Why not strengthen your CV while making a real impact on the lives of young people?

Contact Peter Randall 07898 918112

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.

email dartfordscc@gmail.com for more details.

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

Dartford Living

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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

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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 224686 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: 08457 909090

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LOCAL SPORTS CLUBS

Search facebook for:

Bexley Rugby Club 01322 550142 or http://www.pitchero.com/ clubs/bexleyrfc/

Dartford Living Dartford Community Group Dartford Today Dartford Remembered Dartford Daily Dartford Gossip Dartford Hour

Dartford Ladies Hockey Club Dawn Hall (Secretary) 07793 777250 Dartford Ju Jitsu Club Mondays, Dartford Girls Grammar School, Shepherds

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

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Steve Cook postcard final:Layout 1

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• Misted, cracked or broken glass • Drafts, leaks & condensation • Sticking, loose or broken handles • Window/doors not opening, closing • Patio doors not running smoothly • Cat flap & letterbox fitting/replacement • Lock and key replacement

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

Dartford Living

17

Community libraries- What are they and how do they work?

Featured

By Brian Miller

So, what is a ‘community’ library? With possible closures currently hanging over a number of libraries in the borough, you might be concerned about what might happen to your local library. Will you lose it completely? How will you be able to borrow books, check your emails and browse the internet? With this threat of closure comes the community library model...

Bexley community library continues to expand and is now cutting its’ teeth as an arts venue too. It now hosts regular free gigs for children and adults. Gigs focus around calendar events such as Chinese New Year, Christmas, summer holidays etc. It has just completed a very successful run of summer events involving children’s authors and writing workshops. The next gig on the calendar will be a

This was the scenario in which Bexley Village library found itself about four years ago. Prior to a possible closure in 2012, the council asked for expressions of interest from various parties, the criteria based on wh could best supply some form of service. In this instance, Greener Bexley, a charity involved in arts, environment and conservation, won the charter by having the best all round business plan. Jonathan Rooks, who heads Greener Bexley, said of the plan: “We were able to increase the hours the Library was open, add a cafe and many activities for adults and children. These are things that a council finds difficult to do successfully”.

ukulele and storytelling Halloween event on Fri 30th October at 7.15 pm. All are welcome! Fancy dress optional!

With the library saved and, in effect, under new ownership, something interesting happened…. Through the grapevine, volunteers, community helpers, musicians, teachers and artists started to get wind that something exciting might be in the air, and subsequently began descending upon the place, throwing all sorts of ideas into the cultural melting pot!

In a perfect world, libraries would have been left alone to their own devices. However, with every threat comes an opportunity, and Bexley library seems to be proving itself as a valuable community asset and hub.

For those of you who may be about to lose a library, remember that you need to find interested parties who will show a willingness in making it work, form a business plan, then hopefully, a bit of momentum from the community will follow….

For more details regarding Bexley Community library, call 01322 836303

Three years later, utilising this network of people, Bexley library has been transformed into a vibrant community hub, offering many activities and clubs, including guitar, ukulele, singing, storytelling, reading, French and German languages, computer IT, arts and crafts, a cafe too. And it still loans books and has PCs available!

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Low cost veterinary practice to open full service clinic easipetcare Dartford is delighted to announce that it will offer full veterinary services from 2nd November 2015.

The low cost veterinary practice, situated opposite Prospect Place Shopping Park, currently operates a vaccination and neutering clinic but from early November will expand to offer a full range of veterinary care.

Pet owners will be able to benefit from access to dentistry, oral and topical treatments, digital x-rays, blood tests, surgery and more. All of this is offered with the easipetcare promise of high quality veterinary care at prices amongst the lowest in the UK.

Operating a system of both appointments and walk-in clinics, pet owners are able to visit the Dartford practice at a time suitable to them. The clinic will open from 8am – 8pm Monday to Friday and from 9am to 12pm on Saturdays. For more information, or to book an appointment, contact the practice on 01322 223447.

Opening offers will be available – register your pet today to take advantage! Visit www.easipetcare.com/dartford

easipetcare founder and vet for over 35 years, Judy Walker, comments: “At easipetcare, we firmly believe that the highest standards of veterinary care should be affordable for everyone. We are delighted that we have been able to expand our lovely Dartford practice to allow us to care for even more precious pets.”

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Featured Local business

Linklater Opticians - Dartford

Local Business Linklater Opticians has just had a refurbishment to further reInforce it’s ‘contemporary approach to traditional eyecare.’

As one of Dartford’s oldest businesses, Linklater Opticians, has been established for over 75 years. It is also ‘Dartford’s only independant option.’

A small friendly team offer eye exams, contact lenses and spectacles. All of the clinical work is completed by a registered optometrist. All spectacles are dispensed by a registered dispensing optician.

An extensive range of frames are available to suit all budgets with the latest designer frames from Superdry, Polo Ralph Lauren, Versace, Elle, CC and Silhouette.

They are also able to supply specialist lenses including varifocals, sports lenses and frames and lenses for special work requirements.

By avoiding the reliance on special offers we are able to cater for individual needs more effectively.

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Get involved in the DYC and make a difference!

Dartford Youth Council (DYC) is looking for new members to help young people’s voices be heard and make a difference in the Borough.

They are inviting schools and youth groups across Dartford to elect members to attend their regular meetings and get involved!

Young people elected to DYC must be aged between 12 and 18 on 1st September 2015, and live in or attend a youth group or school in Dartford.

Youth groups can each elect three members. Schools can elect up to five members – two from years 8 & 9 and three from years 10-13.

The DYC is a non-political group and focuses on issues affecting young people around the Borough – such as school transport and mental health. They hold monthly

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meetings which all members are expected to attend, plus days out, residential events and social activities.

This year, the DYC have raised money for Comic Relief, launched their own ‘Make Dartford Happy’ campaign, helped at several events including the Dartford Festival, visited the Houses of Parliament and lots more.

DYC chair Chloe-Louise Gebbett said, “We’ve had a great year and have already started planning our activities for 2015/16. We’d like as many young people as possible to get involved in the DYC and help us make a difference in the Borough.”

To get involved, young people can speak to their existing DYC members or citizenship teacher at school or to their youth group leader. They can also email youthcouncil@ dartford.gov.uk to register their interest.

To find out more about DYC and their activities follow them on Twitter @Dartford_YC or at www.facebook. com/DartfordYouthCouncil

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DARTFORD LIVING MEETS....... BY KELLY GOLDSWORTHY Continuing our series, focusing on members of the Dartford community, Kelly met Heather Upton from Dartford Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society (DAODS).

is on at the Orchard this October. There’s also a lot of backstage jobs to be done, so earlier this year I took charge of the props for The Drowsy Chaperone.

It was quite challenging finding everything that was needed. I’m quite arty so I made a lot of props, with other things it was a case of beg, borrow or steal! I also do most of our posters and designed the programme for Half A Sixpence which took up quite a lot of time.’

Discussing the time involved, Heather explained: ‘It’s up to all members to decide which productions to put themselves forward for. There are usually two rehearsals a week for each production, for which you may be called for one or both, depending on which scenes are being rehearsed. Next year we are planning a pantomime of Jack and the Beanstalk in January, Sweeny Todd in April, Stepping Out in July and Annie Get Your Gun in October.’

Having always lived in the Dartford area, Heather attended Sutton at Hone Primary School, Wilmington Hall and The Leigh CTC at Post 16. By day she is a Production Controller for Findlay Media, based in Hawley.

Heather explained how she became involved with DAODS: ‘I’d always known of DAODS, as I know people who have been involved with them in the past. I’d always loved musicals but always felt too shy to get involved, particularly as the audition involved singing, dancing and performing a short acting piece. In 2012 I mentioned this to a friend one day and he encouraged me to give it a go, saying “You should do it - you’re a long time dead.” This resonated with me and I discussed it with my Nan who also encouraged me. By chance, the same week I saw an advert on Facebook for auditions for Carousel. I called them, half hoping there would be no answer, but I’m really glad that there was, as I went along and got in. I’d definitely advise others to give it a go. Generally, they want you to have two of the three disciplines of dancing, singing and acting.’

‘Being part of DAODS has been fantastic. In the past I’ve had hobbies such as silver jewellery making which I’ve grown tired of, but with this I don’t think I could.

DAODS is very social, with nights out and quizzes, and through this I’ve made a lot of great friends.’

Asked about Dartford, Heather said ‘I think Dartford wrongly gets rubbished a lot, and yes, the shops aren’t great but there is a lot of talent here, which doesn’t get mentioned enough. When we were doing Half A Sixpence, my fellow cast member, Keely, commented how her social media timeline was filled with people complaining how boring The X Factor was. Well - they should have been at The Orchard watching their local theatre group and having a great time!’

‘Since being in Carousel I’ve been in Chess, Half A Sixpence, Hot Mikado and A DAODS Christmas Evening.

We are currently rehearsing for Boogie Nights, which Interested in advertising? Tel: 01322 507817 www.dartfordliving.com

Dartford Living

21

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Local News

Thoughts of a Local....

by Jane Stevenson

SINGING IN THE RAIN It’s amazing how a piece of music changes everything.

Late August and I’m stuck in traffic trying to get into Dartford. The rain is teeming down as other bored motorists sit in their cars watching the lights change from red to green to red again, contemplating the wet and miserable pedestrians stumbling along.

The only movement are the windscreen wipers dancing against the glass – the road is gridlocked. No one is going anywhere.

I’ve nothing better to do than wait in the car. So, having mastered the art of downloading to an iPod (I am rather old) I hit the play button and listened to “Freebird” as it fills the car.

Readers of a certain age will know all about “Freebird”, an angst ridden tale of doomed love written by Lynryd Skynryd, a group of good old southern boys with a penchant for brawling and substance abuse. The ‘it’s me, not you’ explanation in the lyrics is cheesy to say the least. Most fans probably don’t even listen to the words – to be honest they are rather naff. What we all wait for is the soaring guitar solo where guitarists Collins and Rossington challenge yet complement each other.

The sheer raw power and energy of the track lifts the spirits and chases away the blues. So sad then, that the band lost three members in a plane crash in 1977 which left the remainder of the band badly injured.

They never did regain the popularity of the raunchy 1970s hard rock era. What they did leave is “Freebird”.

So if you catch sight of an old woman, eyes closed, playing amazing air guitar while waiting for the lights to change, that’ll be me, watching Skynryd in my mind’s eye and playing along to that solo.

series plus having seen a couple of am-dram performances over the past few years, it seemed an excellent way to spend a Saturday evening.

Scrubbed up, suited and booted Other Half and I drove to the Guild Theatre in Northfleet. It is an unprepossessing building surrounded by the new Kent Police HQ, housing and roads. Not quite the West End then.

The theatre is small and intimate. Nowhere is too far away from the stage. What it lacks in sophistication is more than made up for in atmosphere and talent.

“The Hollow” was the Guild’s homage to the 125th Anniversary of Christie. The play is a ‘country house mystery’ featuring the typical upstairs/downstairs characters we are so familiar with. In the hands of the Guild players, the characters come to life and are believable three dimensional individuals with humorous quirks, sad secrets and hidden agendas.

The set and costumes were in keeping with the time of the play as were the manners and dialogue. All in all a great way to spend an evening and all for a tenner!

TAKE YOUR SEATS We’re a talented lot in this area. We have a range of craft clubs and societies to suit almost everyone. Whether we are an enthusiastic amateur or experienced in our chosen interest, we are sure to meet other likeminded souls.

What I wasn’t prepared for was the sheer professionalism from the members of the Guild Theatre Group of Gravesend.

It was a chance conversation with my daughter recently that started it. ‘Do you want to come and see Rhiannon in “The Hollow” – it’s an Agatha Christie?’

How could I not? Being a fan of the books and the TV

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Dartford Living

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Kids Zone Crafts

Max's Makerspace

By MicroHackers - A Dartford Edtech Startup

Liquid soap powered boat Materials: • 1 x Piece of card • 1 x Pair of scissors • 1 x Bowl of water • 1 x Bottle of washing up liquid

Instructions: 1. Using the pair of scissors, cut a piece of card to look like boat in the illustration above.

2. Fill a large bowl with clean water.

3. Place the cardboard boat on the surface of the water.

4. Pour a few drops of washing up liquid into the notch at the back of the boat.

5. The boat will be propelled along the surface of the water.

Information: Before the washing up liquid is added, the surface tension of the water is equal on all sides of the boat. When washing up liquid has been dripped into the notch in the boat, it will break the surface tension of the water causing the forces on the boat to become unequal, pulling the boat along the surface.

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Dartford Legal Services Ltd Commercial & Residential Conveyancing Probate & Wills Commissioner for Oaths Reasonable fixed fees

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Dartford Living

31

THE CAKE & BAKE SHOW FEATURING THE GREAT BRITISH BAKE OFF LIVE

Yes, but it’s the photography I really like. We’ve got a really great team with the designer, the photographer and the home economist. We He can’t wait to get demonstrating at this year’s spend a week in this little studio in Acton, all Cake and Bake Show – it’s John Whaite! eating pizzas for lunch and drinking beers, it’s so chilled. And then you see you recipes materialize You have a law degree and you’d worked in as pages of a book and that’s the most rewarding banking. Do you ever wonder what you would thing. It’s such a proud moment. be doing now if you hadn’t done Bake Off? Right now I’m working on my third book which I do sometimes, yes. I think I’d probably be is a general cookery book – but of course there’ll enjoying it and working hard but I just can’t be a load of baking recipes in there, too. It’s one imagine myself doing that now. I couldn’t see of my favourite things to do, because once the myself choked by my tie in an office. Now I have manic rush to get recipes tested is over, it’s just the complete opposite to that: I work at home, me, my music and my laptop, and I can work from never wear a tie, and I’m director of my own anywhere I feel comfortable – usually propped company. It’s weird how things work out – I do up against coffee-shop counter, contemplating consider myself very lucky indeed, but I do work a croissant. hard at this career.

What are you making of the Great British Bake You’re about to open a cookery school in the Off this year? Have you spotted any new stars?

Lancashire countryside aren’t you?

I love it! I love all of them, but I particularly Yes, we’re hoping to open in mid November. loved Sandy (sadly evicted) because she was The location is a converted 400-year-old barn just hilarious. on the family farm where I grew up. It’s very poignant for me because it’s a real family affair, we’ve all created it together. My brother-in-law helped me pull walls down and clear the barn out, and my sister is going to be the washer upper! I’ll probably be heading up north every weekend for classes and then if I I’m teaching during the week I’ll stay up in my old bedroom.

It’s like regressing – going back to my roots – but I love being around my family.

You enjoy demonstrating at The Cake and Bake Show don’t you?

I love the demonstrations. I used to do drama and dance and stuff – I’ve always been a bit of a performer – but in demonstration it’s a two-way process. Not only can you get a buzz from the crowd, but the audience can learn a great deal from you, too. That’s what’s great about it; it’s not just about me going on stage and having a laugh and a giggle, it’s about me sharing a passion with two or three hundred other people. That’s the biggest buzz there is.

My last book was the best-selling John Whaite Bakes at Home.

Do you enjoy trying out new recipes for the books?

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Lemon Sherbet cake – John Whaite (Great British Bake off Winner 2012) The word ‘sherbet’ evokes memories of youth, but, ironically, I disliked sherbet as a child – I was a kid who needed a more toothsome, chewy sort of jelly sweet. This cake is perfect for baking with children, because the cake batter uses a ‘one mix’ method, so there is no need to go through the stages of making a cake, which can sometimes tire fickle little kids. And though it’s a simple cake to make, with a simple filling, the presentation takes it up a notch.

This cake is a nod to all things youthful, but it is also absolutely acceptable at a sophisticated, child-free gathering.

Ingredients - serves 10/12 For the candied lemon topping • 2 lemons • 600ml water (in batches of 200ml) • 100g sugar • 100ml water • 75g golden caster sugar For the cake • Zest of 3 lemons • 4 eggs • 225g golden caster sugar • 225g stork • 225g self-raising flour • 1 tsp baking powder For the filling • 400ml whipping cream

• 500g mascarpone cheese • 300g icing sugar • Zest of 2 lemons • 1 tbsp lemon juice • 2 packets of lemon Dip Dabs (sherbet only) • Icing sugar, to dust Essential equipment • Two 20cm/8-inch loosebottomed round cake tins, greased and lined with baking paper • Cake stand at least 20cm/ 8 inches across • Disposable piping bag fitted with 12mm nozzle

Method For the lemon topping, use a potato peeler to pare thick strips of peel from the lemons – if you get any white pith, scrape it off with a knife. Chop the lemon peel into thin matchsticks, then place in a small saucepan with 200ml water. Bring to the boil, then drain the water, place the lemon zest back into the pan with another 200ml water and repeat. Drain again then repeat – you should bring the lemon zest to the boil 3 times in total. Set the drained lemon zest matchsticks aside. Place the 100g sugar and 100ml water in the saucepan and bring to the boil until the sugar is dissolved, then return the lemon zest and allow to poach for about 5 minutes. Drain. Place the 75g caster sugar in a bowl and add the lemon matchsticks. Toss in the sugar then arrange on a baking sheet and allow to dry out for a few hours (overnight is better).

Preheat the oven to 180°C/160°C fan/Gas 4.

Place the ingredients for the cake into a mixing bowl and beat together until well incorporated and smooth. If you have a freestanding electric mixer, use the paddle attachment. Divide the batter between the two prepared tins, and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean.

Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly, before removing from the tins and turning on to a cooling rack until completely cold.

Meanwhile, make the filling by whipping the cream to very soft floppy peaks. Fold this into the mascarpone along with the sifted icing sugar and lemon zest until smooth. Then quickly beat in the lemon juice – though don’t overbeat, as you don’t want the mixture to split.

When the cake is cooled, and the candied lemon is dry, slice each cake in half horizontally so that you have four layers. Place one on the cake stand. Fill the piping bag with the filling and pipe little blobs around the edge of the cake, then a spiral of filling in the centre. Sprinkle over a third of the sherbet, then top with another slice of cake.

Repeat this until you have four layers of cake and three layers of cream and sherbet. Sift a layer of icing sugar over the top, then scatter over the candied lemon matchsticks.

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Local News

FCA appeals for new carers in Dartford to find room to foster

One of the leading independent fostering agencies has launched a recruitment campaign to address the shortage of foster carers in Dartford and across Kent.

Called ‘Finding Room to Foster’ the campaign draws on the moments when carers from Foster Care Associates (FCA) found that unique time in their life to make the important decision to foster – making room both emotionally and physically in their home.

FCA has many carers who have made room in their lives, including Jackie O’Connor whose final decision to foster was made whilst on holiday in Turkey.

Commenting on her foster care experience Jackie said: “Having worked in catering all my life I decided it was time for a change. I’ve always loved children, my own are all grown-up now and whilst lying on a sun bed it just hit me – ‘maybe I could become a foster carer’. My husband and I started looking into fostering the day we got back and it snowballed from there really.

“Becoming a foster carer has been just as life changing for us as it has been for the children we’ve looked after. We’re so proud of the progress we’ve seen in the attitudes, confidence and abilities of our placement children. Fostering can be very emotional and is not without its challenges. Many of the children that require placements will have been through a lot in their

short lives and will have issues, big and small, that they need your help to work through. But it’s incredible the effect care, support and a safe, secure family environment can have.”

Maria Gabriels from FCA London and Kent, said: “We’ve been working with children and young people for 21 years and our experience shows that one-to-one support in a family setting is the best way to help these children overcome their issues and deal with their past.

Our team of social care professionals work closely with our foster carers to deliver intensive, holistic support tailored to the individual needs of each young person and carer.

“We have some fabulous foster carers across London and Kent and hope our ‘Finding Room to Foster’ campaign will encourage more people in the region to make room in their life and seriously consider becoming a foster carer.”

FCA provides ongoing comprehensive support to all foster carers including training, a financial allowance, access to carer support groups and organised family activities – all contributing factors as to why FCA placements are 22% more stable than the national average.

For more information on becoming a foster carer with FCA call 0800 022 4012 or visit www.thefca.co.uk

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finding room to foster Young people in care need a place to stay and a place in your life.

If you’ve got room to foster, call Foster Care Associates today on 0800 022 4012.

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Oktoberfest is coming to Dartford!

Oktoberfest is known throughout the world as the largest and greatest beer festival with each year seeing over 6,000,000 people from around the globe flock to Munich to drink steins of German beer, eat Bratwurst and dance on the tables to the professional Oompah bands.

ticket allows the guest to purchase what they wish on the night. Both ticket type holders will have the option of a full cash bar including spirits, soft drinks and more.

To help the very first Dartford Oktoberfest be a complete smash hit, contact them for your ticket Today!

Tel: 01322 559 348 | Web: www.amarhall.com/ oktoberfest.htm

This great festival has never graced Dartford, but that is about to change! Amar Hall are putting on their very own Dartford Oktoberfest on Friday 16th October 2015 to bring the spirit of Bavaria to this part of Kent.

Ticket holders will be treated to a night filled with steins of Becks Vier or Lowenbrau, traditional German Bratwurst and a crowd-pleasing 3 piece Oompah band. The Dartford venue are pulling out all of the stops to ensure it is a night to remember.

To suit all budgets, Amar Hall are offering two tickets – entry or all inclusive. The all inclusive ticket grants the holder entry, unlimited steins of beer (Becks Vier or Lowenbrau) and a free Bratwurst whilst the entry only

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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

On Course Foundation at the London Golf Show 2015 This year’s London Golf Show is set to be a spectacular event, boasting an impressive range of activates and stalls, with appearances from some of the biggest names in golf. The show will be a celebration of the game, allowing visitors to receive free PGA tuition, practice their swing at the indoor driving range, get custom club fittings and much more. This year’s event will also host, as a partner, the exciting Services charity: On Course Foundation.

On Course Foundation supports the recovery of injured Service personnel and veterans through golf. The Surrey based charity aims to use golf as a medium through which ex-Service personnel can come together, share experiences, compete and ultimately progress towards recovery. Golf is a fantastic sport for this pursuit, helping veterans with both physical and mental injuries.

The great game creates a level playing field and in many cases enables them to rediscover competition, camaraderie and self-belief.

In aid of this recovery members not only receive comprehensive golf tuition from On Course Foundations professional coaches, but they also become part of a highly supportive community and benefit from the chance of receiving meaningful employment in the golf industry afterwards.

As partners of the London show, On Course Foundation will occupy a space where the public can speak with staff and Members. The show will be held just outside London at Glow, Bluewater on November 13th – to 15th. Visit londongolfshow.com for more details, and if you’re lucky enough to have a ticket, be sure to say hello to On Course Foundation.

For more information, please contact Marketing Manager Hemma Gooljar on 020 8334 2010, or email hemma.gooljar@oncoursefoundation.com.

Casino Royale Party Night Parents Consortium, a local charity supporting disabled children and based in Hextable, is hosting a new event with a James Bond theme-Bond, Burgers and a Boogie.

It’s on Friday 16th October 2015 at Dartford Football Club DA1 1RT. We have decided its time for a party with a difference.

Local entertainments company Leisure King has donated the use of a fun casino for the night. You can dance the night away to the best hit tunes from the DJ or roll the dice to see if you can win at our roulette tables. At £25 per head it’s a steal. Price includes a “Build your own Burger” evening meal, fun casino tables, photo booth, DJ and dancing and a pay bar with cocktails.

All proceeds will go straight to supporting disabled children through Parents Consortium.

Leisure King has sponsored the event.

You can book by calling 01322 668501x5 or e-mail fundraising@parentsconsortium.co.uk or go online at https://endurancecui.active.com/event-reg/ select-race?e=25612854

36 28

Fun casino evening for charity Bond, Burgers and a Boogie When:

Friday 16th October

£25.00 per head

Includes:

Fun Casino Tables Pay Bar and Cocktails Photo Booth Build your Own Burger DJ & Dancing

Location: Times Dress Code:

Princes Park Banqueting Suite, Dartford Football Club, DA1 1RT 7pm to 12pm Smart Casual

All proceeds raised will go directly to supporting local disabled children and their families through Parents Consortium.

Contact Amy on 01322 479909 or amy.griffin@leisureking.biz for tickets.

Evening organised and sponsored by Leisure King Charity No. 1054129

Please Pleasemention mentionDartford DartfordLiving Living when when contacting contactingour ouradvertisers advertisers

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Could you make someone smile?

Did you know that studies show around one million older people regularly go an entire month without speaking to anyone and half of all older people consider the television their main form of company?

Our FREE Befriending Service is one of the ways we try to beat loneliness in later life.

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See the difference it makes: “My Befriender means the world to me. She has given me a new zest for life and a new aspect of the world” “I look forward to my visits. They help me from feeling alone and isolated. We talk about a lot of different subjects, it is much more informal than I thought it would be. The visits are an important part of my life and help me so much” “Gavin is a very interesting man who I spend time with and have lovely conversations with. It really brightens my day”

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Business and Dhiren’s Automotive News Automotive In this edition we’ll look at new models from Suzuki, Jaguar and Rolls-Royce available from early next year.

2016 Suzuki Baleno

The Suzuki Baleno is a five-door small hatchback that’s about the same size as the likes of the Skoda Fabia and the Ford Fiesta. It’s larger than Suzuki’s current offering, the Swift, and will actually be sold alongside that model instead of replacing it. Suzuki is claiming that the new car will offer strong levels of practicality for the class and its initial figures appear to back this up. The Baleno’s boot capacity is 355 litres, which is more than 70 litres up on both the Fiesta’s and the Polo’s - and 25 up on the Fabia.

30 Please mention Dartford Two petrol engines will be offered: a 1.2-litre unitLiving with 89bhp and a 1.0-litre three-cylinder motor producing 110bhp. The standard transmission is a five-speed manual, but the 1.2 is available with a CVT automatic gearbox and the 1.0 will be offered with a conventional six-speed auto.

On the inside the dashboard looks neat and uncluttered; Suzuki’s launch images show a centrally-mounted 7.0in touch-screen, but this will almost certainly be optional on all but the highest-end editions. The Baleno will go on sale in the UK next spring. Suzuki hasn’t confirmed prices yet, but expected to be around £12,000 to match its rivals.

2016 Jaguar F-Pace SUV

The Jaguar F-Pace - the company’s first ever SUV marks the first time the 80-year-old manufacturer has entered

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the SUV market. It is a relatively long car for its compact billing, nearly 40cm longer than a Range Rover Evoque and about the same height. Jaguar isn’t yet saying what engines the car will use, but the range seems certain to start with models including the engines up to the 3.0-litre supercharged petrol V6 used in the F-type, with up to 250bhp available in some models. Details on the Jaguar F-Pace’s equipment kit is scarce at present.

It goes on sale in the UK in 2016 and though official pricing has yet to be revealed, it’s understood that entrylevel F-Pace models will have a starting price of around £35,000, with top-end models costing around £50,000.

2015 Rolls-Royce Dawn

The Dawn is the convertible version of Rolls-Royce’s Wraith Coupé. Its bodywork is 80% new compared with the Wraith, but its makers say it is just as quiet and refined as other Rolls-Royce models. A soft-top folding roof features on the Dawn. It can be lowered in 21 seconds at speeds up to 30mph. With the roof up, Rolls-Royce says the Dawn is just as quiet as the Wraith inside, and has dubbed it the quietest convertible on sale. There is only one engine available - the same 6.6-litre twin-turbocharged V12 which already features in the Rolls-Royce Ghost It produces 563bhp and 575lb ft, and power is sent to the rear wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission.

Like other models in the Rolls-Royce range, the Dawn is luxuriously equipped. Among the highlights is the infotainment and navigation system, which is linked to the gearbox. The Rolls-Royce Dawn will cost around £250,000 when it goes on sale early next year and its closet rival will be the Bentley Continental GT convertible.

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Tips for small businesses Each month Paul Conradi, Chartered Accountant at Conradi Morrison & Co, will be giving us his professional advice for small businesses..

The worst hit will be Directors of small family companies who receive most of their income through the company paying them a dividend.

Dividends

All Directors should consider making certain that their wives hold equal shares in the company to themselves so that they can both receive the £5000 dividend income tax allowance. There is no Capital Gains Tax chargeable on shares being transferred between married spouses.

The Chancellor in his Budget introduced a new tax on dividends from 6th April 2016. Each individual will receive a £5000 dividend income tax allowance and above this amount, basic rate tax payers will pay 7.5% tax on dividends, high rate tax payers will pay 32.5% and additional rate tax payers will pay 38.1%. Under the current system, basic tax payers pay no further tax, high rate tax payers pay 25% and additional rate tax payers pay 30.56%.

In my view this new dividend tax is simply a case of double taxation by the government, as a dividend is a distribution of profit which has already been taxed in the company.

Nothing will change for people receiving dividends in ISAs and pension plans.

All small family companies should consider paying as much dividend as possible before the new rules take effect in April next year. It is very important that you discuss matters with your Accountant before taking any action.

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.

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Dartford Living

39

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The 5 Worst things in your Kitchen So you think you’re eating healthily, and compared to been linked to cancer, diabetes, obesity, IBS, migraines Sudoku 1 – you might be! But comparing 8 2yourself to an and more. Bottom line – don’t be fooled, drink water! most Puzzle 4 6 4 unhealthy population, and being in the top half is still 3. Low-fat options. We need fat in our diet, period. While far from9ideal; and 7 with 1 so much conflicting information some fats are better than others, fats as a whole have how been demonised by the food industry to our detriment.

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3 do you7know if you’re getting You might be surprised to find that some of the “healthy” Take the fat out of something and it tastes horrible, so 8 3 9 2 foods you’re buying are actually fattening and bad for you. they HAVE to replace it with sugar or sweeteners. Low 9 7 1 6 5 So… What are my top 5 worst foods that you might have fat=high sugar (or to keep the “calories” down, one of 4 2 9 5 6 in your kitchen? the aforementioned alternative deadly sweeteners!).

9 3 7 1. Breakfast Cereal. This is just terrible. It’s loaded with Fats are essential for every cell in your body to function 7 3sugars and 8 sweeteners, 5 and to even 1 be allowed optimally; be aware of where they’re coming from, but added to be sold as ‘food’, the manufacturers have to add definitely keep them in your diet! synthetic vitamins and minerals to it (because without 4. Granola Bars. Healthy snacking at its best. Take all these, it has zero nutritional value and cannot be called the cereal problems and squeeze them together into food!). They’ll sell this as a bonus though: “Fortified a bar to eat on the go. Advertised as “99 calories” or with…”, “Now with added vitamin…”, and we lap it up similar, it’s just a smaller portion of the same! Usually like they’ve done us a huge favour! And I won’t even get held together with some form of syrup or honey etc. If into how it’s marketed to us! Also lacking in adequate you want a healthy snack, make up a trail mix of nuts amounts of protein and fat, it’s incomplete as a meal and seeds. Avoid cereals in any form! and totally unacceptable as a healthy breakfast (even if 5. Fruit Juice. But fruit’s healthy?! While fruit itself contains it is “wholegrain” or “high fibre”). sugars, they’re naturally occurring and are accompanied 2. Diet drinks. Cola, Lemonade etc. Fizzy drinks are loaded by fibre (the flesh of the fruit) that will aid in digestion with sugar which we know is bad (although most people and slow down the sugar rush. Still best avoided if weight don’t comprehend just how bad!), but replacing them loss is a goal or you have diabetes or pre-diabetes, with “diet” versions will have no positive impact on your but for the most part a healthy food.Fruit juice however health! The artificial sweeteners pumped into them, has all of the fibre taken away. Squeeze all of the tasty which they HAVE to have to keep them tasting nice, is sugar out of a fruit, and you have fruit juice. This is NOT arguably as bad as the sugar – although we have no idea a healthy choice, especially for your children. of all the adverse effects of these sweeteners, some have

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

Visit www.DartfordBootcamps.com for information on Personal Training, Nutrition coaching or 32 Bootcamp Fitness Please classes. mention -Dartford Living when contacting our advertisers MarkOneFitness.blogspot.com

F I T N E S S

Gardening Hints and Tips - October Plant of the Month Ensure your garden remains a riot of colour throughout Autumn with our plants of the month.

There’s plenty to choose from including Japanese Anemones, Ericas, Potentials, Asters, Echinacea, Flux, Scabias, Schizostylis, Sedums, Hardy Chrysanthemums and Cyclamen and winter flowering Pansies. And don’t forget plants grown for berries, autumn foliage colours, colourful stems and a wide range of evergreens Tulips Tulips are best planted during November, but buy them now to ensure the best selection. They look fabulous planted en-masse, mixed with other spring flowering bulbs or spring bedding plants or in front of shrubs and herbaceous perennials.

Care for Chrysanthemums Now’s the time to prepare outside florist Chrysanths for winter. Cut down the stems to 6 inches and then carefully lift the stools with a fork, labelling them first. Remove any loose soil and then box the stools in moist compost and place in a cool, airy, frost-free place. Good ventilation is essential and an electric fan heater is the perfect way to keep the plants both frost-free and to circulate the air.

Check For Colour Gap Check for gaps in your borders and fill them with plants like Hardy Cyclamen, Hardy Chrysanths and winter flowering Pansies. Also, look out for scented winter flowering shrubs such as Viburnum Farreri and Viburnum Bodnantense, Mahonia and Sarcococca.

Treat Trees & Shrubs Deciduous trees and shrubs that have been effected by pests or diseases this year will benefit from a winter wash after the leaves have fallen

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Gardening

Wrap Up For Winter Prepare your garden and plants for winter, don’t let frosts take you by surprise. Non-Hardy plants can be moved into a greenhouse or insulated coldframe, where horticultural fleece can be added used extra protection. Plants on the borderline of hardiness, that are being left in the garden, including cordylines, other palms and tree ferns should be protected by wrapping them in fleece and then bubble wrap. Protect roots with a thick mulch of bark.

Split Clumps Herbaceous Old clumps of herbaceous perennials should be split now. Cut down the stems to ground level, then carefully lift the clump with a garden fork, separate it into smaller pieces. You only need to keep the healthy, younger, outer portions of the clump. Replant into soil improved with compost or composted bark and add a little bonemealto the soil.

Pot Up Cuttings Cuttings of Fuchias, Geraniums and other half ardy perennials taken in August or September should be ready for potting on. Use fresh compos and a pot just big enough to accommodate the roots. A 9cm pot should be ideal.

Lift Half Hardys Before the frost and cold weather takes its toll ono ur half hardy bedding and patio perennials, make sure you lift all your fuchsias, surfinia petunias, geraniums, osteospermums and the rest. Cut back leafy growth, trim roots and pot them up for over-wintering. And you can take cuttings from them too.

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41

Local Sports News

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Please mention Dartford Living when contacting our advertisers

Bav’s Sporting Comment England captain Wayne Rooney secured his place in history when he elevated himself above World Cup-winning legend Sir Bobby Charlton as his country’s highest goalscorer but is he the greatest?

This argument will always be framed by one significant factor. Charlton is one of only 11 England players to win a World Cup - and was pivotal in that triumph. Charlton lit up England’s summer of ‘66, scoring the famous thunderbolt against Mexico in the group games then twice in the semi-final against Portugal at Wembley before final victory against West Germany. So perhaps Rooney is not yet the greatest.

What about second greatest…? Rooney edged ahead of Gary Lineker’s 48 goals. However, despite this wonderful achievement, Lineker was a Golden Boot winner with six goals at the 1986 World Cup in Mexico, adding four goals at Italia 90, including the equaliser in the semi-final that England eventually lost on penalties to West Germany.

In contrast, Rooney has scored only one

goal in 11 appearances at the World Cup. Lineker’s England goals came at a rate of one every 136 minutes compared to 162.5 minutes for the Manchester United forward. Charlton scored his at one every 193 minutes.

Rooney’s three World Cups in 2006, 2010 and 2014 have all been disappointments…

Upcoming events in October include: 4: Horse racing - Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, Longchamp 10: Rugby League - Super League Grand Final 11: F1 - Russian Grand Prix, Sochi 13-17: Pakistan v England, first Test, Abu Dhabi 17: Horse racing - British Champions Day, Ascot 22-26: Pakistan v England, second Test, Dubai 22-31: Athletics - IPC World Championships, Doha, Qatar 24-25: Rugby World Cup semi-finals 23-1 Nov: Gymnastics - World Artistic Championships, Glasgow 25: F1 - United States Grand Prix, Austin 31: Rugby World Cup final, Twickenham

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43

Local Entertainment News One of Kent’s longest established theatre groups is putting the finishing touches on their next major production at Dartford’s Orchard Theatre this autumn.

Dartford Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society (DAODS) has been performing in the area for more than a century, and the past 12 months have been as busy as any. “Staging a musical is a huge undertaking, both technically and artistically, and this will be our fifth in the past year,” said society chairman Dave Hughes. “Aside from the people on stage, there are dozens who work tirelessly on lights, sound, costumes, set building and ticket sales to support our productions, plus all of the other jobs needed to keep the society running.”

DAODS’ current show is the British musical Boogie Nights, which will see a cast of nearly 50 adults from Dartford and the surrounding area take to the Orchard stage in October. The show tells a typical tale of young romance, with more than 30 1970s hits as the backdrop to the story.

Well-known songs in the show include We are Family, Celebration, Y.M.C.A. and Disco Inferno.

Dartford group getting their groove on for the Orchard Theatre of facilities for entertainment’ in Dartford. A newspaper advert sought ‘gentlemen and young ladies with good voices and good figures’. The group’s first show, performed in Conservative Hall in Spital Street, was The Mikado in April 1907. Comprising a large cross-section of the community from Dartford and beyond, DAODS’ members range from the youth group, which starts at nine years old, to the group’s oldest member, aged 70-plus. The society has more than 170 members plus a subsidiary, the Good Companions Singing Group, which visits local organisations such as nursing homes. ·Former DAODS stars, including Lara Pulver and Rebecca Thornhill, have been nominated for Olivier Awards and appeared on primetime television and the West End (Pulver - Sherlock/Fleming; Thornhill - From Here To Eternity/Chicago)

Aptly, the script for the show was written by EastEnders favourite Shane Richie, who is also the star of the Orchard Theatre’s panto, Dick Whittington, in December.

The show marks something of a departure for the local group, which is usually associated with traditional musicals. “It’s become clear that we need to make an effort to attract a broader audience to our shows,” said Hughes. “This show gives us a great opportunity to do that and will hopefully entice people who may be fans of the music but would not normally come to see one of our musicals.”

Boogie Nights is being performed from 14th-17th October at the Orchard Theatre, Dartford. Tickets: 01322 220000 or www.orchardtheatre.co.uk For more information on this release or DAODS, email patwalsh100@hotmail. co.uk or call 07984 863642.

A bit about the Society DAODS was formed in 1906 when three residents decided to form a local operatic society to offset ‘the perceived lack

44

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Ticket Office

01322 220000

Competition

or www.orchardtheatre.co.uk

THE SIGNALMAN

BY CHARLES DICKENS 2ND-4TH NOV Middle Ground Theatre Company’s hugely successful adaptation of a classic ghost story. Set in 1880, this is Charles Dickens’ exquisitely unnerving tale of a tormented signalman who is haunted by visions of impending disaster on his isolated stretch of line. Can a well meaning traveller, who chances upon the lonely signal box while out walking, calm the man’s fears before he spirals into self destruction?

Featuring a stunning set and video projections, this is the perfect way to spend a dark autumn or winter’s evening…

Dartford Living and The Orchard have teamed up to offer 2 ticket to the show. To be in with a chance of winning this fantastic prize just answer the following question...

When is The Signalman set?

A) 1980 B) 1880 C) 1820 D) 2015 Please send your entries to Orchard Theatre Competition, Dartford Living, PO Box 283, Dartford, Kent, DA1 9BW or email comp@dartfordliving.com by the 15th OctoberRULES: 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.

SEPTEMBER’S COMPETITION WINNER : RITA WHITEFIELD Ref:AC1

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3947

12 - 17 October

Served at these performances from 5.30pm Reservations required on 01474 337156

Evenings: 7.30pm, Matinees: Thursday and Saturday at 2pm

The National

GILBERT&SULLIVAN Opera Company and The National Festival Orchestra

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Daily Mail

“...a riot of all singing all dancing nonsense ”

HMS THE THE PINAFORE MIKADO GONDOLIERS Monday Oct 12 Tuesday Oct 13

Wednesday Oct 14 Thursday Oct 15

Buy all 3 and save!

Friday Oct 16 Saturday Oct 17

Tickets

Book all three operas and get a ticket for each for just…

BAND A

£28.50

BAND B

£25.50

Band A £70.50, Band B £66, Band C £58.50 & Band D 43.50

BAND C

£21.50

BAND D

£16

www.woodville.co.uk

Box Office

08442 439 480

Woodville Place, Gravesend, Kent, DA12 1DD

FREE EVENING PARKING FROM 6pm

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