Dartford Living - April 2019

FREE April 2019 - Issue 154

By the community, for the community

INSIDE THE MAGAZINE

YMCA SLEEPEASY IN CENTRAL PARK - Page 8 CHARITY TACKLES YOUTH UNEMPLOYMENT IN DARTFORD - Page 16 INTERNET DATING - MAYBE OR NO? - Pages 28 with

be delicious!

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ired be inspwith Slimming World MONDAYS Church Centre, 112 Swanscombe Street, Swanscombe, Kent DA10 0JZ 7:30pm Heather 07957 083150

VCD Sports Club, Old Road Crayford, DA1 4DN 9:30am, 11:30am, 5:30pm and 7:30pm Sue 07507 599691 British Legion Hall Devon Road, South Darenth, DA4 9AA 9:30am, 5:30pm and 7:30pm June 07957 902767

9:30am Caroline 07776 181413

Wilmington Memorial Hall High Road Wilmington DA2 7DW 5.30pm Jayne 07557979435 St.John The Evangelist Church Parkhill Road Bexley DA5 1HX 5.30pm and 7.30pm Adam 07730 405313

WEDNESDAYS VCD Sports Club, Fleetdown Community Centre Old Road Swaledale Road, Dartford, Kent, Crayford, DA1 4DN 10:00am, 5:30pm and 7:30pm DA2 6JZ Liz 07900 213548 3:30pm, 5:30pm and 7:30pm Paula 07891 424401 Glentworth Ex Service Club 154 Lowfield Street, Dartford, Oakfield Primary Academy Kent, DA1 1JB Oakfield Lane 9:30am Dartford Gillian 07957 135737 Kent DA1 2SW The Howard Venue (formerly 7.30pm South East Dance Studios) Kate 07590 995948 39 Egerton Avenue, Hextable, BR8 7LG TUESDAYS 5:30pm and 7:30pm Greenhithe & Swanscombe Caroline 07776 181413 British Legion Club London Road, Greenhithe, Temple Hill Community Centre DA9 9EJ Temple Hill Square, Dartford, 10:00 am DA1 5HY Paula 07891 424401 3.30pm, 5:30pm, 7:30pm Jo 07800 797030 Glentworth Ex Service Club 154 Lowfield Street, Dartford, Kent, DA1 1JB THURSDAYS 5:30pm and 7:30pm The Howard Venue (formerly Gillian 07957 135737 South East Dance Studios) 39 Egerton Avenue, Hextable, BR8 7LG

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Baldwyns Park Baptist Church Dartford Road Bexley 5.30pm & 7.30pm Del: 07975 541082 Temple Hill Community Centre Temple Hill Square, Dartford, DA1 5HY 09:30am Jo 07800 797030 St Anselm’s Parish Centre 89 West Hill, Dartford, Kent, DA1 2HJ 5:00pm and 7:00pm Gillian 07957 135737 Greenhithe & Swanscombe British Legion Club London Road, Greenhithe, DA9 9EJ 5:30pm and 7:30pm Paula 07891 424401 FRIDAYS Lesley Close Bourne Road , Bexley DA5 1LX 9am Del 07975 541082 SATURDAYS Oakfield Primary Academy Oakfield Lane Dartford Kent DA1 SW 8am and 10am Sarah 07739 027161 Christchurch Centre Kingswood Avenue Swanley BR8 8AN 8am and 10am

slimmingworld.co.uk 0344 897 8000 Please mention Dartford Living when contacting our advertisers | Interested in advertising? Tel: 01322 507817

WELCOME TO THE LATEST ISSUE OF

DARTFORD LIVING

BY THE COMMUNITY, FOR THE COMMUNITY Dear Readers,

Welcome to the April magazine. As usual it’s jam packed with lots of local information and local businesses. Please support as many as you can - use them or lose them!

In case you weren’t aware, we run Dartford Living alongside volunteer members of the local community FOR the local community. It’s the only independently run magazine serving the local area with information, fun, good news and positive local stories!

Please get in touch if you would like to write an article for the magazine. If writing is not for you then perhaps you could volunteer to deliver 100 or so magazines to your local roads - you will guarantee your copy of the magazine and get a little exercise as well!

If you don’t always receive a copy directly through your door, you can pick up a copy from various drop off points including Dartford FC, local libraries, Fairfield Leisure Centre, The Orchard Theatre, The Priory and Orchard Shopping Centres, Stephen Oliver Art Gallery, health centres and local Nationwide and Barclays branches.

Additionally, if you email editor@dartfordliving.com we will add you to our e-newsletter and you will join 7,000 others who receive a copy of the magazine by email once a month.

Until next time, Vijay - Editor, Dartford Living (and the rest of the fantastic Dartford Living volunteer team)

CONTENTS 8 9 12 16 18 19 22 24 25 26-27 32-33 40 42 43 43 44 45 48-55 56-57 58

YMCA Sleepeasy Dartford Valley RFC Award winning Fox Estates Charity tackles youth unemployment in Dartford Rescue is best BipBopBlog Lullingstone Castle Life Under the Stairs Recipe Travel Spotlight Stanhill Farm Sports News Fitness Dartford Painted Rocks Then and Now Theatre Roundup Car News Where to Go Locally Advertisers Index Useful Numbers

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16 25 Check out our website for even more local news and articles

www.dartfordliving.com

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

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YMCA THAMES GATEWAY DARTFORD

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JOIN US!

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YMCA SLEEPEASY

by Sara Colenutt

YMCA Thames Gateway slept out with VIP guests in is needed all year round not just in winter. YMCA Thames Central Park Dartford raising funds and awareness to Gateway will be working with the Dartford Churches winter fight homelessness. shelter to create year round service for the homeless and vulnerable where we live. Please help them to continue The keys to the mystical gates of Central Park, Dartford this vital work in such uncertain times. locked in 40 people to spend the night whatever the weather on Friday 8th March. The rain gave way to a cold night and a bright start on Saturday morning. The Worshipful Mayor of Dartford, David Mote, leader of the Council Jeremy Kite, Councillor Avtar Sandhu and Rev. Kenneth Clark were joined by 36 other participants all keen to help alleviate the problem of homelessness where we live and work.

After the group awoke the gates were unlocked for all the participants to enjoy warmth and a cooked breakfast at the café in the YMCA Dartford ‘Roundhouse’. An unlikely treat for the real homeless was very welcome for the cold and tired fundraisers. They showed their gratitude to the volunteer cooks Ellen Mote, Mayoress, Heather Stevenson YMCA, and Dave Ball CEO YMCA Thames Gateway who had been cooking since dawn that morning.

For all the discomfort and thoughtfulness of the participants we have raised over £3,000 and more importantly the profile of a hidden problem in our community. The work 8

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DARTFORD VALLEY RUGBY CLUB COMMUNITY CLUBHOUSE

by Oliver Bagshaw

Dartford Council Deputy Leader Chris Shippam has unveiled a plaque to mark the start of work on a brand new community clubhouse and home for Dartford Valley Rugby Club at Stone Lodge.

more involved in leisure and sporting activities. But these kind of facilities really benefit the whole community, when people and local organisations adopt them as venues for celebrations, parties and meetings, and that’s when they truly become of value for everybody. Rugby has the The project includes a new clubhouse and social centre potential to involve and engage huge numbers of families for the local community alongside a flood lit 3G rugby and I’m very proud to be bringing that to the heart of the pitch and a second grass pitch to provide a permanent Stone community.” home to the growing number of teams at the hugely popular Dartford Valley Rugby Club.

Peter Timon, Dartford Valley Rugby Club Chairman said, “The progress is fantastic. Dartford Borough Council is The sustainable 880 sq.m clubhouse sits in a fully clearly committed to providing top quality family-friendly landscaped environment and will enable the club to build facilities for the town and supporting our growth as a on its superb reputation for work with young people and local club means we can do so much more to help this communities. When the community clubhouse opens this community. The new clubhouse will not only help us but Summer it will accommodate not just the senior teams will provide the people of Stone with a new centre for but the growing mini and junior sections too. community life and activities.

Jeremy Kite, Leader of Dartford Borough Council said, “I’m delighted to see work begin on our latest investment in community facilities. This will not only be a fantastic new home for Dartford Valley Rugby Club but also a brilliant new hospitality and social space for the Stone community. Like rugby clubs everywhere, Dartford Valley Rugby Club is a welcoming and friendly community and they will make a big difference to Stone.

We are determined to repay the faith that Jeremy and the council have shown in us. At the very start of this project Jeremy outlined a project that would welcome everyone and make a real difference to the local community. We know we can do that. Our club membership is a true reflection of the town and the core rugby values of Respect, Discipline, Teamwork & Fun. We can’t wait for our opening in the Summer.”

We’ve seen our previous investments in places like To find out more about Dartford Valley Rugby Club visit Fairfield, Princes Park and Dartford Cricket Club make a www.dvrfc.co.uk. real positive impact, especially with young kids getting www.dartfordlivinglive.co.uk - www.dartfordliving.com - www.dartfordbusinessdirectory.co.uk

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AWARD WINNING FOX ESTATES

by Alyson Hall

WE’VE DONE IT AGAIN!!

Fox Estate Agents are thrilled to announce that we have won the Gold Award for from the British Property Awards for the third consecutive year!

The team from the British Property Awards mystery shopped every estate agent in Dartford against a set of twenty-five criteria to obtain a balanced overview of their customer service levels. The judging criteria was both comprehensive and detailed exploring different mediums, scenarios and time periods to ensure that agents had been rigorously and fairly judged. According to the judging panel, Fox Estates performed outstandingly throughout the extensive judging period, focusing on our customer service levels. We have also been shortlisted for a number of national awards which will be announced later this year. Fingers crossed!

Winning the British Property Award again is a fantastic reward for the whole team, who continue to work tirelessly to make sure that our customers are given a stress-free experience and the highest quality customer service.

HEALTHY WORKPLACE INITIATIVE

the Worshipful Mayor of Dartford Cllr David Mote.

McQueens, Fairfield Leisure Centre were also receipients of the award but were unable to attend the evening.

Kent’s employers play a key role in helping people make positive lifestyle changes that could improve their health. By supporting the One You Kent campaign by KCC Public Health in the workplace, they can provide employees with free tools, services, support and encouragement to make a real difference.

Left to right: Lucinda Ball, The Worshipful Mayor of Dartford Cllr David Mote, Danny Hawkins and Diljeet Nota

Employers can reduce absences due to sickness, increase productivity and save money by supporting health initiatives in the workplace.

Dartford Living Live 27th February 2019.

Ebbsfleet International were presented with a certificate for the Healthy Workplaces initiative by 12

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CHARITY TACKLES YOUTH UNEMPLOYMENT IN DARTFORD

by Julia Inshaw

Last Chance for Dartford Youth to Sign Up for Next Prince’s Trust Employment Programme

the programme.”

Team is a personal development programme which provides unemployed 16-25 year olds with the chance to take on new challenges, take a qualification, make long-lasting friendships and develop vital skills that will help them to find work. The programme is completely free of charge and doesn’t affect participants’ Jobseekers Allowance or Universal Credit. Travel costs are paid, and individuals may even be entitled to meals and bursary payments.

Kellie continued: “Spots are filling fast, but we still have a few spaces left. To register interest just email princestrustinfo@cxk.org, call our recruitment team on 07843 287787, or visit cxk.org.”

Unemployed young adults in Dartford interested in building confidence, getting work experience and developing important job seeking skills are encouraged to sign up for the Prince’s Trust Team programme before it’s too late.

Delivered in Dartford by charity CXK, the next programme is set to start on Tuesday 23rd April 2019, and provides an opportunity for unemployed 16-25 year olds to take part in a full-time, 12 week development programme. The programme gives them the chance to go on an action-packed trip to an outbound activity centre, develop their Maths and English skills, and build work-related skills including communication, teamwork, job searching, and leadership. They give back to their communities by volunteering, raising awareness and fundraising for causes that matter to them, and benefit from a two week work experience placement in their field of interest.

Kellie Major, Assistant Director at CXK, says: “There’s just one month left to go until the start of our Dartford programme, so any young adults from in and around the Dartford area who want take part should get in touch now!

“The programme is a brilliant way for people to find a new direction and build the skills and confidence they need to find employment, and for many it’s absolutely life changing. CXK has delivered 115 Prince’s Trust Team programmes across Kent to date, benefitting 1,100 young people. 93% of those young people progressed into employment, education or training after completing 16

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RESCUE IS BEST

by Battersea Dog and Cats Home - Brands Hatch We have teamed up with Battersea Dog and Cats home - Brands Hatch to bring you regular listings of animals requiring rehoming.

Name: Larry; Breed: German Shepherd; Sex: Male; Age: 3 years; Centre: Brands Hatch; Reference: 366944

Larry is a smart dog who likes learning new things. One of his favourite things is a tennis ball and he loves to play a game of fetch with his favourite people.

He has an independent nature and is unsure of new people. At Battersea he has assigned handlers that have spent time getting to know him gradually. New friends have been introduced by a fun game with tennis balls, giving him space to move away as he wishes. Larry has had muzzle training during his stay with us which will need to be continued in his new home so a muzzle can be utilised for vet checks if necessary.

Larry is looking for experienced owners who have previously owned dogs of a similar size and temperament. He will need to live in a rural area with access to quiet walking routes and a private garden. New owners should be mindful that his training requires time and patience and they will need to be committed and consistent to achieve positive results.

If you think you can help this handsome dog reach his full potential please contact our Brands Hatch centre on 01474875106 or email bbh.rehomers@battersea.org.uk.

Name: Maisie; Breed: Domestic Short Hair; Sex: Female; Age: 10 years; Centre: Brands Hatch; Reference: 365363 Maisie is a beautiful girl both inside and out; stunning people with her dusky ginger coat and warming their hearts with her insistent head nudges and gentle purr.

Our wonderful Maisie is a cattery veteran and has been in and out of Battersea since last August. She used to be quite reserved and didn’t really want to make friends, but with a change of scenery to one of our garden pens, Maisie’s personality has bloomed and a new, affectionate cat has emerged.

Maisie is desperate to find her forever home now; as much as she loves her new pen, she misses her home comforts.

But mostly she misses having a family she can call her own.

Being in the garden pen, we know that Maisie loves to spend time outside pottering and playing around so her new home will need to have access to a garden.

If you can offer Maisie a home please contact our Brands Hatch centre on 01474875106 or email bbh.rehomers@ battersea.org.uk.

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BIP BOP BLOG

by Charlotte Wise

Special Announcement Hi D L Readers!

You may have noticed that last month there wasn’t a Bip Bop Blog featured in the magazine. I’ve also been extremely quiet on social media for most of 2019 and after many people have messaged me to ask if I’m still alive, I can confirm everything is A OK! I’m very pleased to announce that we are expecting another little baby due in September.

It did come as a bit of a shock to us and was quite unexpected after a very complicated birth last time. The truth is, I never really imagined having another baby and even though I’ve been fighting morning (well, all day and night) sickness for what feels like forever, I’m pleased to finally be able to tell you all.

The first trimester has been a huge challenge. As a second time mum trying to look after a 3 year old whilst battling the constant feeling that anything and everything was going to make me vom.com; work had to come to a halt.

As much as I wanted to do everything, I had to pull back from socials, events, writing - everything. So even though I wanted a break after a busy Christmas, I wasn’t quite expecting a 3 month one! Apologies to everyone who has wondered where I’ve been hiding!

Now Aw Winn ard ing!

The good news is, I am finally at a point where I’m regaining some energy and able to get back into more of a routine.

It was actually quite liberating to sit down and write this as I start to feel a little more like me.

Do follow me on Instagram where I shall start posting more about pregnancy updates and do get in touch if you have any advice on second time motherhood. I’m all ears!

Children's Gifts & Wooden Toys

Until next time Charlotte x BipBopShop Facebook/Twitter/Instagram @bipbopmum Visit the website BipBopShop.com

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LULLINGSTONE CASTLE AND THE WORLD GARDEN OPENS 5TH APRIL

by Jill Cox Lullingstone Castle & The World Garden looks forward to welcoming visitors for the 2019 season from Friday the 5th of April. Furthermore, from the Early May Bank Holiday, there will also be the opportunity to see its new “Hot ‘n’ Juicy” hot house, showcasing a wondrously diverse collection of sumptuous cacti and succulents mostly from the arid regions of North America. It’s a must see new feature of the garden, located next to the World Garden nursery and potting shed.

The World Garden opens Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Bank Holidays with special events throughout the season (April-October) including this month’s Easter Egg Quiz & Trail – Easter Saturday 20th, 21st & 22nd April between 11am – 5pm. Aspiring plant hunters will be able to scour two acres of The World Garden for Easter clues and then report on their discoveries to claim an eggtastic surprise, plus the chance to meet some Easter Characters! Set Steve120 Cook 27/1/14 within acrespostcard of beautifulfinal:Layout Kent countryside, 1Lullingstone Castle is one of England’s oldest family estates, dating

Photo by Alan Graham back to the time of Domesday. An historic family mansion frequented by Henry VIII and Queen Anne. It is also home to the UK’s first ever ‘World Garden of Plants’ the vision of modern-day plant hunter Tom Hart Dyke.

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23

LIFE UNDER THE STAIRS

by Local Resident, Jane Stevenson I NEED AN ‘OLOGY’

friend produces artwork on hers, another produces music.

I am truly humbled by this.

What a palaver! Everything sorted for this month’s mental wanderings. Just a tweak here and there needed, then the I write; basic Word is fine for me. I can manage Excel and computer goes on strike! No idea why, what was wrong Powerpoint. I would love to be fluent in technology, but or how to fix it. All my work was saved but wouldn’t open. would rarely use such knowledge.

If, like me you work from home, it is a disaster. In Real Life I rely on the computer for access to sites for research and investigation. Without it, I am pretty much lost. I can’t complete application forms for grants nor can I see which Trusts are suitable for my causes.

Other Half and I went to look at a new desktop and have tentatively decided on a model. It’s new, tiny and shiny yet according to the very nice saleslady will perform all the tasks I need (plus a whole lot more) in a fraction of the time my ancient machine does, with less noise and far fewer cables. A bonus as getting older I’ll probably Moaning to Eldest Offspring wasn’t a great deal of help start tripping over things. either. ‘Use your phone’ was her reply. Bearing in mind I am old fashioned enough to use a phone to make and As to the new phone, Eldest has sorted it out and left me receive calls and only entered the world of the smart with the apps I need – Waze, Whatsapp and few others. phone a couple of years ago, it wasn’t the best solution I remain in touch with nearest and dearest, can take a to my problems. photo when walking the dog, and text a message about a coffee date. Suits me.

Looking at my phone Eldest sniffed haughtily and began to list its shortcomings.

GOOD ADVICE She does everything on her phone, from ordering online, making client appointments and writing emails! I’m truly I’ve just had a birthday. I’m the wrong side of 60 something amazed at how quickly she manages this and a little now and have come to terms with it. Much has changed worried that any future generations of the Stevensons from my parents days when 40 was the new 60 and adults will have elongated thumbs! were recognised by their uniforms of smart clothes, sensible shopping bags, ties for dads and aprons for mums.

That prompted me to toddle over to Bluewater and speak to Mike, a lovely young man who gently laughed when I It is so different now, and I’m embracing it. Still going told him of my woes. Directing me away from the glittery, to gigs – Thunder, anyone - I’m embracing the lifestyle exotic models, he set me up with a perfectly good phone that suits me; Earth Mother on some days, Old Hippie on for my needs. Yes, it takes photos, texts etc and will do all others, and Aging Rock Chick now and again. the magical stuff of a modern phone. All this technology comes as standard apparently. He transferred all my data I enjoy a variety of interests and don’t have to ask anyone from the old phone and told me to call back if I got stuck. for permission to start. My wellbeing has become important Well done Mike. A credit to the company you work for, to me as the work of being Mum has changed now the knowledgeable and kind to old ladies. kids have gone. I can do jigsaws till three in the morning, write a novel, watch repeats of old favourites on the telly I do realise how fast and furious the world is nowadays, or wander round the Estate at and although I long for a quieter pace of life, I appreciate Stevenson Towers.

I am in the minority. I like being out of touch for a while each day. I’m also unhappy at the thought of my life being A birthday card from a dear friend on my phone in case I lose it. sums it up so I thought I’d share: Some of my friends are so tech savvy it scares me. They Take care All. have top of the range mobiles, perform an array of tasks on laptops and desk tops that leave me breathless. One 24

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RECIPE -

ONE EGG WONDERS!

by Debbie Dickinson

With Easter this month, I thought I’d share some of my favourite and quick ideas that use just one egg.

Pancakes.

I know I’ve missed the official day, but in our house we eat pancakes all year round!

In a bowl (or, if you have one, a protein shake bottle with the whisk gadget in) pop one egg, a beaker of plain flour and a beaker of milk. As long as you use the same size beaker/cup for the flour and milk this should work fine!

Whisk (or shake) until smooth and adjust with a little extra milk/flour if necessary. Add a dash of vanilla extract or golden syrup for flavour.

Add a small knob of butter to a large frying pan and place on a medium heat. When the butter is melted and the pan is hot add the batter so that it just covers the bottom of the pan. Cook for 1-2 minutes until they start to colour underneath, then flip and cook for about 30 seconds on the other side.

whisk out, the mix will form a peak that will then droop).

Add 75g caster sugar a spoonful at a time – whisking well between each spoonful. Continue whisking until the mix forms stiff peaks (you’ve all seen the test where you can -if you’re feeling brave – hold the bowl upside down above your head!)

Now’s the time to stir in a small amount of flavouring extract and marble in a bit of food colouring if you like.

Spoon (or pop into a piping bag with a nozzle and pipe) the mixture onto the oven tray and bake for 30 mins – then turn the oven off and leave the meringues to cool in there with the door slightly ajar.

Enjoy xxx

In our house we like to cut them into wedges and serve, nacho style, on a big platter with fruit and dollops of yoghurt.

Lemon Curd.

I love making my own lemon curd! It’s a lot easier and quicker than you would imagine!

In a large bowl whisk together one egg, 100g caster sugar, 1tbsp plain flour and the juice from half a lemon (about 2tbsp) until the mix is light and fluffy.

Pour the mix into a saucepan and simmer, whisking continuously, for about 5 minutes until it thickens to a custard consistency. Leave to cool completely or pour straight into a sterilised jar to store.

Meringues.

Preheat the oven to 130°C (120° Fan) and line an oven tray with baking paper.

Whisk one egg white together with a small pinch of salt until you get a soft peak texture (when you lift the

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25

TRAVEL SPOTLIGHT

in association with

FLORIDA

by Tim Harden

be interested in the Sarasota Museum of Art, a new contemporary art museum dedicated to global art since 1960s opening in December 2019. In West Palm Beach the Norton Museum of Art recently unveiled a $100 million extension designed by the legendary Norman Foster.

New places to stay: The 200 room Baker’s Cay Resort is the first Curio Collection

by Hilton property in the Florida Keys. Facilities include a beachside tequila and taco venue, pools with a waterfall grotto and a winding nature trail.

The six storey, 200 room Comfort Inn Lake Buena Vista With new attractions and new flights in store for 2019 it is being converted into an IHG upper-scale Crowne Plaza has never been a better time to book a fun-filled holiday property due to open this March. to the Sunshine state.

The Biltmore Hotel – a National Historic Landmark in the “As well as being a large and diverse state, Florida is exclusive Coral Gables, is under refurbishment with plans constantly evolving, so there’s always something new to to restore the 18-hole golf course to the grandeur of the discover,” said Gill Standeven, Visit Florida Account Director“ 1925 Donald Ross -designed layout.

In 2019, visitors can take advantage of the new Norwegian flight to Tampa, enjoy events and festivals throughout the Top Stops: year, explore 825 miles of beautiful beaches, as well as Orlando 360 – This entertainment complex has dining, discovering new rides and attractions at the theme parks, shopping and attractions like the 400ft ICON Orlando, including the much-anticipated opening of Start Wars: the largest observation wheel on the East Coast.

Galaxy’s Edge at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.”

Kenney Space Centre – Chat to astronauts, see a piece A must for all Star Wars fans, this highly anticipated new of the moon, walk through an astronaut hall of fame and themed area is set to open this autumn and will include a see the modern Delta II rocket. full-sized X-wing star fighters, life-sized Millennium Falcon starship with immersive experiences that put guests into The Everglades – An exciting airboat ride is one of the battle and provide the chance to interact with Chewbacca best ways to explore America’s largest subtropical and other characters. wilderness, home to alligators, manatees, turtles and the Florida panther.

There are more thrills at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay with Tigris, Florida’s tallest launch roller-coaster opening this Sports – The five national sports – American football, spring. Riders will be catapulted through looping twists with forward and backward motion, breath-taking drops and a 150ft skyward surge at speeds of more than 60mph. On a gentler note Legomovie World is set to open at Legoland Florida Resort. It will feature three family-friendly marque attractions, inspired by the characters and themes of The Lego Movie and Lego Movie 2.

Down on Florida’s white sand beaches, sandcastle lessons have been launched in Destin (families can learn how to build one that is 3ft+ tall) and in Sarasota there are free yoga sessions on the beaches of Venice, Manasota and Nokomis/North Jetty. Whilst there, art lovers may 26

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soccer, baseball, basketball and ice hockey are all easily watched in Miami.

If you are looking to go to Florida, do come and see us in the town centre for a chat. If you are not thinking of Florida, may be you should so do come and see us just the same.

Call - 0800 023 8974 E-mail - tim@hardenholidays.co.uk Website: www.hardenholidays.co.uk Visit us at: Unit 1B Henley House, Home Gardens, Dartford, DA1 1AS

(Opposite Prospect Place & Costa, next to Subway)

Care and Nursing at Home

Award-Winning Team Fully Managed Service Family Owned and Run Dementia Specialists 68 Branches Nationwide

Do you need a helping hand?

With almost 30 years of experience in caring for people within their own home, and a commitment to using only directly employed carers, we have the expertise to provide the best care possible from 30 minutes to full-time live-in care.

Looking for care?

01322 771 088 For more information www.helpinghands.co.uk

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27

INTERNET DATING - MAYBE OR NO WAY?

by Charlene Douglas

With 1 in 5 relationships in the UK starting online, how can you make sure that you have the best possible chance of finding love? Well, take a look at my top tips for women seeking love. (Men, look out for your top 5 tips in the next edition of Dartford Living!)

Live Your Best Life!

1) Make sure that you are ‘living your best life’. How will your potential mate know how you expect to be treated, when you are not treating yourself in this way? Create a profile that shows the places you’ve visited, or you taking part in an interesting hobby. A clear picture with a big smile, as well as full length pictures help your potential mate be sure of what you really look like. Enjoy being in your own company, before inviting someone else to join you. If you don’t enjoy being with you, why would someone else? – make sure your love for yourself and for life comes across in your pictures and profile. Don’t wait for Romeo to be zapped directly to your living room – create the life you desire!

is telling you what to do next. It’s not difficult to hear the voice, when you turn up the volume!

Why not book a session w i t h m e fo r d e e p e r exploration on your journey to find a mate. I offer flexible days / times via skype, telephone or face-to-face counselling/ coaching sessions. Check out my website for more information www.stillmysoul.co.uk or call/email me on 07780 790 335 / charlene@stillmysoul.co.uk

Be Bold!

2) Send your potential mate a message first. “No way!”

I hear you shriek! Well, what do you have to lose? Just saying “Hi, how you doing?” Could really break the ice. That may be enough for him to actively engage in conversation with you. Don’t wait for him to message you first – make yourself visible. Men often say “if only women would give me a sign”. Just think how excited you feel, when you receive a message from a lovely guy.

Turn up the volume!

3) And finally don’t waste your time. Your time is precious!

Your gut instinct is rarely wrong and is often talking to you much louder than you may realise. It all depends on just how low you’ve turned the volume on the internal voice that is guiding you. Women can sometimes spend more time convincing themselves that a man could be the ‘one’, instead of looking at the signs. If you have a strong feeling that the man you are dating isn’t treating you with dignity and respect, then listen to the internal voice that 28

Do you struggle with your weight?

Let me help YOU achieve YOUR weight-loss goal.

• FREE consultations and complete one to one support from a Dartford based Consultant.

No classes to attend!

• Lots of yummy products to choose from • Plans to suit your lifestyle and your budget • Let us begin your weight-loss journey, you will be glad you took the first step and started!

Contact Pam 07703622230 or pamcwp@hotmail.com *FOR A SPECIAL OFFER* www.cambridgeweightplan.com/PamB

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Are you fed up with constant aches and pains in your body? Do you want to move more freely ? Improve posture and feel more confident ?

Do you need help recovering from an injury? Or would you like to improve your sports performance ? OnPointe Pilates is the solutions, contact us today to book your FREE taster session!

Weekly group sessions on weekday mornings, evenings and weekends. Private 1:1 and 2:1 session with Pilates equipment.

We offer 5- week Pilates beginners course - these are the perfect introduction to Pilates and we currently have them on special offer 5 weeks for the price of only 4!

Limited spaces available – contact us to book your space!

Frances Ware 07921 863 806 frances@onpointepilates.co.uk

Regency

Painting and Decorating Services Free Estimates & Advice Domestic & Commercial No Job Too Small Extremely Clean & Tidy Fully QualiďŹ ed Tradesman

Contact Rob to arrange a quotation Tel: 07853 824595 Email: regencypaintingdecorating@gmail.com www.dartfordlivinglive.co.uk - www.dartfordliving.com - www.dartfordbusinessdirectory.co.uk

29

Whatever place you're into

“Easter Fun at Fairfield.�

Holiday camps, Pool inflatable, Bouncy castle, Diving boards Check out our website for a full timetable of events

fairfield.placesleisure.org

Managed by Places for People Leisure Ltd for Dartford Borough Council.

Fairfield Leisure 01322 421166

30

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!

E R O L A G S N I A G BAR

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Our services include: -check-ups -scale and polish -teeth whitening -teeth straightening(Invisalign) -fillings -bridges,crowns, dentures and etc.

-dental implants -anti-wrinkle treatment (Botox) 0% Finance Available tel. 01322 464569 address: 30 Overy Street, Dartford DA1 1AH email: info@smileavenue.co.uk web: www.smileavenue.co.uk follow us on Facebook

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Wills LPAs Probate Trusts Home visits available for Will Instructions Fully insured - 2 million pounds PI Insurance Reasonable fees Member of IPW and regulated by Trading Standards Institute Website: www.smnwillwriting services.com Email: susan.norris@ smnwillwritingservices.com Tel: 01322 291379

Excel Security Systems your local security systems installation specialists.

We can provide you with tailor made security systems for your home or business requirements..

SSAIB-certificated (Insurance Approved) Intruder Alarms CCTV Door Entry Access Control Service and Repairs Takeovers and Upgrades All our systems are designed to suit your needs and your budget. www.excelsecurity.london Email: enquiries@excelsecurity.london Or call 01322 589 534 For a free no obligation quotation...

Find us on Facebook

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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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BOW ARROW GARDENING & LANDSCAPING. Gardening and Landscaping service in the Dartford, South East London, North Kent, Essex area.

- Garden Design.

- Garden Clearance.

- Garden maintenance :all aspects.

- Hedge/shrub pruning.

- Deweed paths and flower beds - Lawn Maintenance and cutting.

Free quotations Contact- Andy Davidson.

Mobile 07815 118887 Email – andy_davidson_1@ yahoo.co.uk A Friendly, reliable and quality service.

Bespoke quotations on request.

Volunteer with us Girlguiding is the leading charity for girls and young women aged 5-18 in the UK. There are lots of fexible ways to volunteer so no matter how much time you have you can #InspireGirls too.

Be part of it at www.girlguiding.org.uk/interested or call 0800 1695901

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37

F.D. TRANSPORT “FULWICH VILLA” 100 FULWICH ROAD, DARTFORD KENT TEL: 01322 292323 MOBILE: 07831 448552

•FREE ESTIMATES • ALL REMOVALS UNDERTAKEN • ALL GOODS FULLY INSURED

F.D. TRANSPORT

• HAULAGE, PARCEL SERVICE, SINGLE ITEMS

Competitive Rates!

A BAINES & SON ROOFING • New Roofs • Repairs • Tiles • Slates • Flat Roofs • All Lead Work • UPVC Fascias & Soffits • All Guttering • All Work Guaranteed • Insurance Work Undertaken

TEL: 01322 271693 MOBILE: 07971 792463 38

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COMPETITION

ROBERT WHITE: THE TANK TOP TOUR

As the only gay, Aspergic, quarter-Welsh comic on the British comedy circuit, Britain’s Got Talent has helped to highlight Robert’s distinctive comedy genius. Known for his brilliant timing and anarchic performance style, Robert’s chaotic stage presence, improvisational skills and delivery saw him win the Malcolm Hardee Award for Comic Originality.

A regular at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe since 2010, his shows regularly impress critics and audiences alike, winning the hearts of the British public. His hilarious routines have also received over 6 million views on YouTube winning him legions of fans across the UK and beyond.

SUNDAY 28 APRIL 2019

To book tickets visit orchardtheatre.co.uk | Ticket Office: 01322 220000 We have teamed up with the Orchard Theatre to offer 2 tickets to the show. You just need to answer this question: Who presents Britain’s Got Talent?

a) Ant & Dec b) Dec & Holly c) Vic & Bob d) Little & Large

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

RULES: 1. The winner(s) will be the first correct entry/entries drawn. 2. The judge’s decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. 3. Prizes are as stated and no cash in lieu or an alternative prize will be offered.. 4. Winners will be notified by telephone by the Orchard, within 5 working days of the competition being drawn. 5. Employees and the immediate families of participating companies are ineligible to enter. 6. Closing date for the competition is stated above. 6. We will only use your email address to contact you if you win. It will not be used for any marketing or promotional emails

Christchurch Preschool Dartford A setting where children learn through play in a happy safe caring environment.

River Mill Primary School

Opening

A new school for Dartford

September

Part of Connect Schools Academy Trust, Powering Learning

2019

River Mill Primary is an important part of a family of schools that make up the Connect Schools Academy Trust (CSAT). Schools within our Trust are committed to aiming high and achieving well. River Mill has been established to serve the new communities within the Northern Gateway Development.

River Mill is where: 

An outstanding education will empower young minds for future success



Children are valued, respected and develop a strong sense of self worth



We provide fun and imaginative creative learning experiences



Innovative leadership and teaching thrive in an ever changing educational landscape



There is a safe, secure and supportive environment



Vibrant partnerships link our schools to our families and the wider community

Come along to one of our regular meetings to find out more about our vision for River Mill Primary School.

Held at: St Edmunds Living Well Centre, St Edmunds road, Temple Hill, Dartford, DA1 5ND 9th November 9:00-11:30 ,12th November 1:00-3:30 19th November 5:30-7:30, 7th December 9:00-11:30

For more information visit: www.rivermillprimaryschool.co.uk

Wehave have aa Vacancy Vacancy for We foranan Early Years Practitioner Early Years Practitioner To join our ‘Outstanding’ team in Dartford.

To join our ‘Outstanding’ team in You will need to have experience and an Dartford. understanding of the EYFS.

Have an enhanced DBS check.

You needistopart-time have experience andtime. an The will position during term understanding of the EYFS. Please send your CV or contact us for more information Have an enhanced DBS check.

The position is part-time during term time.

Please send your CV or contact us for more information Contact: 07523414516 - 07523414518.

Email: christchurchpreschooldartford@hotmail.co.uk

www.christchurchpreschooldartford.com *t&c’s apply- Excludes delivery charge. Offer ends 15th April 2019. Flowers must be ordered in advance and not chosen on the day.

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39

BAV’S SPORTING COMMENT Zidane left Real Madrid last season after winning three Champions Leagues in a row and a league title, and now returns to a club in disarray - a club with nothing left to play for this season other than qualification into next season’s premier European competition... and pride. Just 10 months he told Real Madrid “I would stay but as you don’t want to follow my lead, I better go”.

He will be the club’s third coach of the season after Julen Upcoming events in April include: Lopetegui, who lasted until 29 October, and Santiago Solari, who in less than a week oversaw a collapse of 6: Horse racing - Grand National, Aintree monumental proportions.

6-7: Football - FA Cup semi-finals, Wembley Stadium In what is probably the worst six days in the club’s history - between Wednesday, 27 February and Tuesday, 5 March - they were knocked out of the Copa del Rey by Barcelona 7: Rowing - Boat Races, Putney, London with a 3-0 home loss and a 4-1 aggregate defeat, finally lost any slim remaining chance they might have held of 11-14: Golf - The Masters, Augusta winning the league (a 1-0 loss to Barcelona), and suffered humiliation and elimination against an unfancied Ajax 14: Formula 1 - Chinese Grand Prix, Shanghai in the Champions League (4-1 defeat at home, 5-3 on aggregate).

20 Apr-6 May: Snooker - World Championship, Sheffield Zidane had left previously because he argued the team “has to keep winning and for that to happen it needs a change”. 28: Formula 1 - Azerbaijan Grand Prix, Baku

It will very probably be good news for Eden Hazard and, 28: Athletics - London Marathon if so, very bad news for Chelsea. Hazard has made no secret of his desire to join Los Blancos as well as play 30: Football - Champions League semi-finals, first leg under Zidane.

V CHIPPENHAM TOWN

Saturday, 13th April KO 3pm

V BILLERICAY TOWN

Monday 22nd April KO 3pm

HOME FIXTURES 40

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

weekly!

Health walks are free and led by trained volunteer walk leaders Short social walks that last around an hour No need to book - just turn up Any age and ability welcome Great for people getting little or no exercise, recovering or suffering from an illness or lacking in confidence • Dress for the weather including comfortable footwear

For more details including starting points please contact Healthy Lifestyles Project Coordinator on 01732 227000

Outdoor Bootcamp Fitness Classes Strength Sessions Animal Flow Classes (indoors)

FIRST SESSION !

For more info and to Go to:

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41

FITNESS SURVIVING EASTER

By Mark Broadbent

So, Easter is coming and the shops have already been pushing the chocolate on you for the last 2 months!

Temptation is everywhere and you’re trying to be good and stick to your diet, but it’s getting tougher to comply.

What can you do?

your weight. Aim for minimal consumption, accounted for in your calorie count.

The third option is to eat what you want, but the caveat is that you can’t then moan about gaining weight! (Well, Well, the easy answer, though the toughest challenge, is you can, but no-one will listen or feel sorry for you). This simply resist. Be strong and don’t give in to temptation; is also likely to make it harder to get back to your diet but in reality, this is the most difficult option. after Easter is over too, since you’ve had a taste and will essentially have to start again.

If this is your chosen route, then you need to keep in mind your goals at all times. Remind yourself frequently (at least In short, Easter is a tricky time for anyone with a sweet a couple of times a day, if not more) why you’re doing this, tooth who wants to lose weight because temptation what you want to achieve and why. Every time you feel seems to be everywhere you go – though in reality, this tempted, stop and think about these reasons and then stuff is always there. The key is to keep your goals in at least you’re making a conscious decision rather than mind and not let your impulses guide your decisions. acting on impulse. Expect it to be tough, but remember Don’t eat mindlessly. Stop and think about it whenever how good you’ll feel having resisted, and how much better you’re tempted and at least some of the time, you’ll it will feel to reach your goal than the momentary pleasure make the better choice, and avoid the immediate guilt you’ll get from eating the chocolate (which will also likely people often feel right after they’ve eaten something lead to you eating more chocolate!) they shouldn’t have.

If you’re not able to completely abstain, then at least A few more tips that might help: moderate consumption. This is an easier option as it Do your best not to keep the foods you’re trying to avoid means you can still enjoy some treats, and will-power in the house. doesn’t have to be impenetrable.

If people offer you something, politely decline.

You still need to be strong or you’ll end up on a binge, but if you are able to stop yourself after just a little bit, then this If something does mysteriously appear in your cupboards is a great option that allows you some tasty treats without that you don’t want to eat, get rid of it. going overboard. Again though, this does all depend on you being able to stop yourself once you start – so only Avoid bargain buys, as you’re still spending the same choose this route if you know you can control yourself! amount but will end up with twice as much chocolate!

Something else to consider with this option is to account Be strong! for these extra calories in your daily goal. If you eat 100 calories of chocolate, then that comes off of your daily If you need help with your training and/or nutrition, visit calorie goal the same as any other food would. “Treat” www.DartfordBootcamps.com for more information on or not, it’s food you’ve eaten (this is the same principal Nutrition Coaching and Bootcamps. as desserts – they count towards your calorie count for And follow us on Facebook and Twitter for extra tips, that meal, so adjust portions accordingly). advice and motivation.

DO NOT however think you can eat 1,500 calories of chocolate and just skip your other meals and you’ll be fine because you’re within your calorie target – you need to eat real food or your health will suffer, regardless of 42

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DARTFORD THEN AND NOW THE PIED BULL IN FARNINGHAM

BY JAMES CARNEY - LOCAL RESIDENT

As an Architect I am interested in the local context of our towns, villages and cities and how these places have developed over time.

Having come across some wonderful old postcards and images of our local towns and parishes on a Facebook page I thought it would be really interesting to take a photograph from exactly the same viewpoint but from our current time in history in relation to the original images from around the early 1900s. The original postcards and images are courtesy of Brian Porter.

Rock Painting in Dartford.

Local people from Dartford Painted Rocks on Facebook have been busy this month painting and hiding them around town. The rocks can also be exchanged at Stephen Oliver: Studio and Gallery located in the Orchard Shopping Centre.

DARTFORD PAINTED ROCKS

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

Local people from ‘Dartford painted rocks’ on Facebook have been busy this month painting and hiding them around the town.

The rocks can be exchanged at Stephen Oliver: Studio and Gallery located at the Orchard Shopping Centre.

Here are some of the photos of their painted rocks.

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43

THEATRE REVIEW

BY LIZ DYER

As always, it’s been a busy month for Dartford theatre lovers. March was the month of the Calendar Girls - Gary Barlow and Tim Firth’s heartwarming British musical moved in for an unusually long run of two weeks at the Orchard, and had audiences in stitches (and tears) every night.

We welcomed back the daredevils from Cirque Berserk, and younger theatregoers enjoyed the brilliant Room on the Broom from Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler.

And of course, there was the usual packed programme of comedy, music and much more.

very own DAODS will no doubt be a huge hit. Get ready for an evening of fantastic musical favourites, like Food Glorious Food, Oom Pah Pah, I’d Do Anything, As Long As He Needs Me and many more. I can’t wait for this one.

There’s fun for the little ones too, with In the Night Garden…

Live (18th-22nd). Igglepiggle can’t find his friends, and must follow their funny sounds to track them down…

The show, which features life-size costumes, puppets and live music, has now been seen by more than a million people, and rated 4.8 out of 5 by parents. You can’t say Coming up this month, we’ve got some true British fairer than that. classics to look forward to. If you enjoy an awkward suburban social gathering and some gloriously terrible Also this month: surprisingly, there are still a few tickets 1970s fashion (and let’s be honest, who doesn’t?), don’t left for Sing-A-Long-A The Greatest Showman (16th) - so miss Mike Leigh’s iconic comedy Abigail’s Party (1st-6th), get in while you can! We’ve got musical tributes galore, with starring Jodie Prenger, Vicky Binns and Daniel Casey. Into The Groove (23rd), Think Floyd (25th) and Tropicana Written in 1977, the play’s had audiences laughing and Nights (26th) to name a few. And if you enjoyed Calendar cringing in equal measure for over four decades, and in Girls in March, why not check out Hormonal Housewives 2000 the TV film starring Alison Steadman was voted (29th), starring Vicki Michelle, who are in Dartford for one 11th in the BFI’s 100 Greatest Television Programmes. night only at the end of the month.

From one legendary piece of theatre to another, next Whatever you see at the theatre this month, enjoy! up is Oliver! (10th-13th). Lionel Bart’s musical based on the novel by Charles Dickens is probably one of Britain’s most popular shows, and in the expert hands of our

44

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CAR NEWS APRIL 2019

By Dhiren Ganesh

In this month’s article we feature new and upgraded infotainment system. It has a new grille and LED lighting models in 2019 to 2021 taking advantage of the growing at the front and rear and new paint colours for buyers to SUV market, some with electric engine options. choose from. The sole engine is a new 2.0-litre petrol, available with either a five-speed manual or six-speed CVT automatic gearbox. Amongst the new features on the infotainment is the ability to play videos from a USB memory stick when the vehicle is stopped. Range-topping versions also get sat-nav with real-time traffic data. Prices have not been annouced but not expected to be different to the current from around £20,000. It will be available to purchase in the summer of 2019.

2020 Cupra Formentor SUV – Cupra spun off from Seat in the last year and launched as a standalone brand, this is its bespoke model, the Cupra Formentor. The Formentor combines SUV and coupé styling, making it a potential rival to the BMW X4 and Mercedes GLC Coupé. However, it’s also a plug-in hybrid, with a combined output of 242bhp from its petrol engine and electric motor and an electriconly driving range of just over 30 miles. The new SUV takes its name from a peninsula on Majorca, with Cupra following parent firm Seat’s convention of naming cars after Spanish geographical features. The Formentor is officially just a concept at the moment (it made its public debut at the 2019 Geneva motor show), but a production version will go on sale in 2020.

2021 Alfa Romeo Tonale SUV – this is the new sporting plug-in hybrid family SUV. Two years ago Alfa Romeo launched the Stelvio, proving that it can mix with the best in the SUV class, so now the stage is set for a smaller, more affordable SUV. Its styling naturally takes inspiration from the Stelvio, as well as older Alfa Romeo models.

The Tonale will be Alfa Romeo’s first electrified car, with a plug-in hybrid system comprising a petrol engine at the front and an electric motor at the rear. An electric-only driving range of at least 30 miles is expected, but not yet confirmed. From the concept car which this orginates, key elements, including the Alcantara-and-leather seats, backlit panels, steering wheel-mounted start button, 12.3in digital instrument display and 10.3in infotainment touchscreen will remain. The Tonale is expected to cost less than the Stelvio, despite being a plug-in hybrid. An entry price of close to £30,000 would make it competitive 2019 Mitsubishi ASX – this is the facelifted version of with rivals and is expected to be on sale in 2021. the ASX with a new look, a new engine and an upgraded www.dartfordlivinglive.co.uk - www.dartfordliving.com - www.dartfordbusinessdirectory.co.uk

45

MONEY ADVICE

by CAP

Time to sort out your debt?

As we’re now in the fourth month of the year (where did the time go?!) it’s a good time to reflect on the New Year’s resolutions we made all the way back in January.

How long did yours last? Maybe you’re still going – well done! If not, don’t worry – there’s always time to give it another try.

This includes getting your financial situation into shape.

At Christians Against Poverty (CAP), we know that being in debt can feel like a prison sentence, but we also know that there’s always a way out.

service is specifically tailored to help the most vulnerable and marginalised in society because it’s face to face and accessible (we visit every client in their own home) and it’s holistic (we recognise that debt is often a cause or symptom of wider issues).

As well as debt help, CAP offers group services where members can tackle various issues in a safe environment, around people who are often going through a similar thing. Locally in the Dartford area, CAP Job Clubs offer support and practical

There are lots of brilliant debt counselling organisations that can help you if you’re worrying about debt.

StepChange, PayPlan and Citizens Advice are just a few to consider.

However, if you’re struggling emotionally as well as financially and need that extra bit of support as you work your way out of debt, get in touch with CAP. Our

46

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The Brent Playgroup meet Monday to Friday 9.15am to 12.15pm Term time only.

For enquiries please contact: Mobile: 07989073866 Tel 01322 271738 (between 8 and 12:30) email: thebrentplaygroup@gmail.com or call in at any time.

Registered for Free for Two Children The Brent Methodist Church Hall PostCode DA1 1XF

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

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

TUESDAYS Session 1: 9.15-10.45am, and Session 2: 11-12.30pm. Christchurch, Crossroad, Dartford. Contact Catherine on 01322 220036.

9.30am -11.30am. The Salvation Army, 66 Hythe Street, Dartford. Please call us on (01322) 288434 for further information.

9.30am-11.30am Sticky Fingers - £1.50 per adult includes tea ,biscuits and healthy snack time for the children For pre school children up to 4 years St Mary Greenhithe Church Hall London Road Greenhithe Contact 01322 382031 or see www.stmarygreenhithe. com WEDNESDAYS 10am -12pm - Little Angels Net Church, (Formerly Gala Bingo Hall) Dartford, £2.50 per family including all snacks and drinks.

Catherine 07878658685 11.15am - SLADE GREEN AND HOWBURY COMMUNITY LIBRARY BABY AND TODDLER ACTION RHYME TIME GROUP 12:45pm -2.45pm - Fleetdown Open House - Fleetdown Community Centre, Swaledale Road, Dartford, DA2 6JZ £2.50 per Adult THURSDAYS 9:30am - 11:30am. St Paulinus Church Hall, Manor Road, Crayford.

9.30am-11am Toerags Toddler Group - Adult education centre, Dartford £3 per Child - £1 Non Walkers - facebook.com/ToeRags 1pm-2.30pm Toerags Toddler Group - Adult education centre, Dartford £3 per Child - £1 Non Walkers - facebook.com/ToeRags FRIDAYS 9.30am-11am Baby and me for expectant mothers and mothers / carers of chidren up to 2. £1 per adult St Mary Greenhithe Church Hall, London Road Greenhithe. Contact 01322 382031 or see www.stmarygreenhithe.com 9.30am-11am Toerags Toddler Group - Adult education centre, Dartford £3 per Child - £1 Non Walkers facebook.com/ToeRags 9.30am-11.30am Carer & Toddler Group, St Mary’s Church Hall, Stone Place Rd, Greenhithe. Jeanne 01322 380322 jeannehoadley@ yahoo.co.uk 1-3pm Gigglekidz, Tree Estate Community Centre on Cedar Road - £2 Per Child SATURDAYS 9.30am-11.30am Daddy and Me - A group for dads and male carers of children up to 5years. £1.50 includes healthy snack time for the children. St Mary Greenhithe Church Hall, London Road Greenhithe. Contact 01322 382031 or see www.stmarygreenhithe.com 2-3pm - Lego Club- ages 5 and over - Chrome Road Slade Green DA8 2EL Tel: 01322 333602

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

Temple Hill - Thursday Dartford

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

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

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Please mention Dartford Living when contacting our advertisers | Interested in advertising? Tel: 01322 507817

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WHERE TO GO LOCALLY 078 755 68296 for more details and current THE NATIONAL WOMEN’S REGISTER dates of our events and meetings The National Women’s Register (NWR) is CARE & a national organisation that meets in the THE WELLBEING LINK Dartford area. The NWR is a discussion SUPPORT The Wellbeing Link meets on Friday group for ‘lively minded women’. Contact mornings from 10-1pm in the St. Anselm’s can be made via www.nwr.org.uk or call Parish Centre, 89 West Hill, Dartford A 01603406767 and ask about the Dartford THE NORTH WEST KENT BRANCH friendly and informative group - call Julie group.

OF THE MOTOR NEURONE DISEASE On 07775875585 ASSOCIATION meets on various date HEALTHCARE RETIREMENT GROUP at Brichwood Country Club For more Dartford & Gravesham Branch. information contact Alexon 01322 228169.

Meets the first Wednesday of every month at the Masonic Hall, West Hill, Dartford from DARTFORD OSTOMY GROUP SUPPORT 10-12pm.Activities include guest speakers, SOCIAL GROUPS (DOGS) meet every third Wednesday in outings, lunches, holidays and quizzes. For the month at St Anselm’s Parish Centre, more information contact West Hill, Dartford DA1 2HJ from 1.00 Marion on 01322 402967 pm to 3.00 pm. It is for anyone who has an JUST FOR GROWN UPS GROUP Ileostomy, Colostomy, Urostomy, IBS and We are a small friendly group who meet at OVER 55’S CLUB - We meet every pouch, their carers, family and friends. the Meeting Place in the Orchards Shopping Wednesday 2pm to 4.30pm at Tree Centre on the first Tuesday of the month.

Community Centre, Cedar Road. We play ALL DIRECTIONS Join us any time between 11am and 1pm bingo, tea and biscuits, and socialise. We is a community learning organisation for a social chat, coffee and biscuits or a also run regular coach trips to the coast for adults and young people aged 16+ fun quiz. For more information contact throughout the year. with physical, learning and mental health Our club is open to anyone over 55 difficulties. For more information, attend a mikeansell.dt@hotmail.co.uk wherever you live and costs just 60p to taster session or visit our community lunch come along and join in. So why not come club, contact Caroline on 01322 440482 or 20S 30S DARTFORD BEXLEYHEATH SURROUNDING AREAS SOCIAL GROUP and join our friendly welcoming social club?

07570 347612 more information visit: For further information please call either www.meetup.com/20s-30s-DartfordJohn Letchford on 01322 270732 or Pam AGE UK, CRAYFORD LIBRARY POP IN Carr on 01322 222195.

PARLOUR COFFEE MORNING every Friday Bexleyheath-surrounding-areas-socialmorning 10.30 - 12.30 Tea, Coffee, Biscuits group/ JOYDENS WOOD WOMEN’S INSTITUTE and a chat - Just £1 DARTFORD U3A (UNIVERSITY OF meet on the third Tuesday of every THE THIRD AGE) month, with meetings beginning at BEXLEY AND DARTFORD BRANCH meets on the first Tuesday of every month 7.45pm. We meet at the Community PARKINSONS UK For people with Parkinsons and their carers. (except August) at St Anselm’s Church Hall, Centre, Birchwood Drive, Wilmington, DA2 We have 2 meetings per month. Bexley: 4th West Hill, Dartford at 2pm, For information 7NE. More information can be found at about meetings and interest groups call joydenswoodresidents.co.uk (under Local Thursday of each month, at Pincott Hall, 01474-709068 or visit our website.

Clubs and Societies).

2-4pm. Dartford: 2nd Thursday of each month, Mick Jagger Centre, 7.30-9.30pm.

WILMINGTON AND AXSTANE PROBUS Information support workers available, CLUB guest speakers and quizzes.

Would you like to promote Contact Wendy Leach. Tel: 02083065973 We are a group of retired men who meet a local activity on the monthly for a lunch and a speaker at the “Where to go locally...”

Swanley Bowls Centre. We also have THE DARTFORD STROKE GROUP page? a monthly walk and occasional coffee This group meets Monday afternoons mornings and as a side line we raise money at the YMCA Roundhouse, Overy for a local charity. If you are missing the Street, Dartford for a chat in a relaxing If so, email your atmosphere, chair-based excise sessions, contact with other business men since you retired, why not come and join us on the suggestions to stroke leaflets and magazines, informal last Thursday of every month. For more workshops, special art or games sessions editor@dartfordliving. and outings. It is aimed at Stroke Survivors, details contact Phil Burt on 01322 274541 or look at our website www.waprobus.com their carers, family and friends. com Please contact Theo Hodges on Theo.

Hodges@gmail.com or phone/text Theo on

50

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

FAIRFIELD (DARTFORD) WI A warm welcome awaits you on the 2nd Tuesday of every month at Dartford Girls Grammar School, Shepherds Lane, DA1 2NT at 7.30pm. For more information please contact Judith on 01322 278703 or email FairfieldDartford@ wkfwi.org.uk

You will receive a very warm welcome.

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

THE RENDEZVOUS CLUB (50+) Every Monday Time: 8pm - 10pm Location: Close to Bexleyheath Town Centre Description: We are a (non-profit making) friendly social group open to anyone over fifty.

CRAYFORD WOMEN’S INSTITUTE 1st We enjoy socialising, making new friends Thursday of every month at 1.30pm. Baker and activities including Quizzes, Meals Trust Hall. Maxim Road, Crayford (near Out, Trips to the Theatre, Cinema, Coach Sainsburys). Contact Secretary, Linda Trips, Gentle Walks and Short Breaks Away.

Lewis 01322 557229 Admission: Subs £2.50 per week. Annual membership £6 DARTFORD LADIES PROBUS CLUB If you would like to join us or require A group of retired ladies meet locally further information please telephone: for lunch on the 4th Wednesday of each Tel: 01322 287356 or 020 8304 6414 month,. They raise funds for charity and usually invite a speaker. Join them and TALK TIME enjoy meeting and making new friends. If TUESDAY 2.00 - 3.00PM (TERM TIME you would like more information please ONLY) contact Iris (Secretary) on 01474 703448 Fleetdown Library Everybody welcome, join us for a friendly MALE? AGED 18 - 45? chat Round Table is for the guys with Ladies and light refreshments.

Circle for the Ladies (ladiescircle.co.uk) Dartford RT meets every 2nd and 4th HAVEN (LGBT) SOCIAL GROUP. Thursday.

London / Kent area. Every Friday - a safe Often called the original young man’s Place to Meet. social club, Round Table has over 400 For more information please contact clubs in the UK and is in 50+ countries 01322 287356 or 07503 306467 or email worldwide. We have an emphasis on having havenx35@gmail.com a lot of FUN. WILMINGTON WOMEN’S INSTITUTE We guarantee that involvement with is a friendly group who meet on the 2nd Round Table will enhance your social life, Wednesday of every month at 7.30pm in your personal abilities, your network and the Memorial Hall, High Road, Wilmington. best of all it is not expensive.

For more information on our activities please call Ann Hambridge on 01322 For your chance to become involved 228082 in something very special, you need to experience it because no other DARTFORD ACTIVE RETIREMENT organisation offers you the opportunities GROUP that Round Table does.

[DARTARA] We are a group that meets on second Check out the locally famous club www.

Thursday once a month 2 - 4pm at dartfordroundtable.co.uk Fleetdown community centre. At the meeting we have a guest entertainer or Facebook search: speaker, we also organise holidays and * Dartford Round Table day trips out as well as activities including * Round Table theatre trips, curling, short mat bowls, * Dartford Egg Hunt indoor games, coffee and cake afternoons

and an art group.

Just turn up on the day or phone Maureen Dixon-Jones 01322 383337 or Glenys Theobald 01322 273108 for more information THE ROTARY CLUB OF THE NORTH DOWNS Our club, which is one of 35,000 around the World, was set up 40 years ago and has members with a wide range of interests and backgrounds.

The club actively supports a number of charities locally, nationally and internationally and we continue to raise funds for Ellenor Hospices, Demelza Hospices for Children, Darent Valley Hospital and many others. We are very keen to maintain these traditions and welcome new members from the area.

We also organise numerous social activities both for members and the wider community. For more information about the club’s activities and membership please contact Bob Phillips on 07815 807520 or John Smeeth on 07889 137951

Advertise in the magazine for as little as £30 for a month Contact: sales@ dartfordliving. com

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WHERE TO GO LOCALLY CLUBS AND SOCIETIES

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

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

As the club continues to grow new members are always welcome.

The club meets on Wednesday evenings from around 7.00pm until around 9.30pm at our new clubrooms in Invicta House (aka Belvedere Workingmen’s Club), 66 Gilbert Road, Belvedere DA17 5DA.

DARTFORD BRIDGE CLUB meets every Tuesday evening at 7.00 pm at Wilmington Christian Fellowship Church Hall, Broad Lane, Wilmington DA2 7AQ. We are seeking new members at all DSTC ALUMNI PAVILION PLAYERS levels to play Duplicate Bridge -cost £2 Hi all, if you went to DSTC, DTC, Is an amateur dramatics group based per session.

Dartford West Girls or any other name at the Joydens Wood Community Enquiries: contact that the school has been known as Centre, Wilmington, Kent. We meet John Davies on 01474 832221 we would love to hear from you! The every Tuesday from 8-10pm. For more or e-mail carolandjohnd@tiscali.co.uk school is looking to make links with information please visit www.faceformer students to help raise the book.com/pavilionplayers or call us on profile of the school but also as a way 07505 006539. Alternatively just pop DARTFORD FLORAL CLUB of getting back in touch with people. down on a Tuesday night! Everyone The club meet on the 3rd Friday of There will be an event later on in the welcome! the month at Hawley Pavilion, Hawley academic year and we are planning Rd.(opp Papermakers Arms) at 7.30 some exciting things for the group so DARTFORD BELLRINGERS Come along for an evening of beautiful get joining and let’s get reminiscing!!

Holy Trinity Church, High Street, flowers, fun and friendship. Entrance www.facebook.com/groups/ Wednesdays 8.00-9.30p.m. Free £6.00, refreshments and a raffle with DSTCAlumni tuition with a very friendly, sociable the chance to take home a beautiful group. The ideal way to make new floral arrangement. Contact Carol THE MANOR HALL VARIETY GROUP friends. Phone Ester 01322 220458 01322 220802 We meet every Tuesday at 8.00 in or email: the Community hall (opp St Paulinus esther.correia1@btinternet.com DARTFORD QUILTERS meet on the church) Crayford. We are looking for 2nd Saturday of each month at the anyone who could help us with sound, NORTH WEST KENT FAMILY Mick Jagger Centre, Shepherds Lane, lights, scenery or singing/acting on the HISTORY SOCIETY Dartford. We run a varied programme stage - everyone welcome. Email me The Dartford Branch meet the 1st of activities suitable for the beginner (Carolyn) for more details at Saturday of each month from 10amthrough to the more experienced c_sawyers@hotmail.com.

12:30pm at the Dartford Science and quilter. More details can be obtained Technology College, Heath Lane, For from the club secretary on 01474 CRAYFORD TOWN ARCHIVE more information see www.nwkfhs.

834872 incorporating Barnehurst and Slade org.uk or ring Janet 01322384836 Green. Meet every Monday (except DARTFORD BOOKS AND CULTURE the third Monday) of the month at ERITH MODEL RAILWAY SOCIETY CLUB Crayford Library hall - 2pm-4pm. Call has been in existence for over 50 years meets once a month on Saturday in for a chat about old Crayford and and has well over 50 active members. mornings at Dartford Library. For more 52

Please mention Dartford Living when contacting our advertisers | Interested in advertising? Tel: 01322 507817

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

If so, email your suggestions to editor@dartfordliving.com

information, find us at www.meetup.com/ EXTRAORDINARY YOUTH GROUP’ West-Kent-Book-Club/ calling all 11-18 year olds who want more than an ordinary life, come hang out THE DARTFORD CHESS CLUB with other young people and discover The club meets every Thursday evening their ultimate purpose. Every Friday in from 7.30pm at St Anselms Parish Hall, term time, 7pm-9:30pm at Net Church West Hill and was founded 100 years ago in Dartford, near McDonalds and next to 1914. All queries to Mike Wiltshire at 01322 Weatherspoons.

272152 or visit www.dartfordchessclub. co.uk For more information email andrew@ thenetchurch.co.uk or call 01322 272649.

COLUMBINE CHINA PAINTERS CLUB meets on the 1st and 3rd Thursday each SHORNE FLOWER ARRANGERS month Our Club presents a programme of at Sutton at Hone Village Hall. 1.30pm workshops and demonstrations in a very until 4.30pm. £3.00 per afternoon (to informal and friendly atmosphere. We include a raffle ticket and tea/coffee) meet on the last Thursday of each month £10.00 yearly fee. except December. Shorne Village Hall, We are a small, friendly club, not The Street, Shorne. DA12 3EA. Visitors expensive. Tuition given. All supplies can are always made very welcome, entry £3. be bought in situe. Come and see if you like We have 30 members and look forward to it, You will be very welcome. welcoming anyone who loves flowers. The Club provides an opportunity for people to Contact - Maureen Beckham 01322 be creative, make friends.

287214. Marie Blake 01474 704581.

For further information please phone Doreen Goddard 01474 707357.

01474 353405 or email landaclatworthy@ btinternet.com WEST HILL MORRIS Come and join your local Morris side, SWANLEY HISTORY GROUP dancing and performing in Dartford, Meets 1st Tuesday of every month.

Gravesend and Bexley areas and Presentations on local social history. throughout Kent in the Summer. We are Venue Alexandra Suite St Mary’s a mixed and very sociable side, and can Road Swanley BR8 7BU. Doors open always find room for new dancers and 7.15 for 7.30 p.m. Members £1 musicians. It’s a great way of keeping fit Visitors £2. Everyone welcome. Email and you’ll be helping to conserve a great swanleyhistorygroup@hotmail.co.uk for English tradition. We practice alternate more details or visit our website https:// Tuesday evenings at Bexley, from swanleyhistorygroup.weebly.com or September to April, then dancing out at Facebook page. Annual membership £5 pubs, clubs and fetes, throughout Kent, includes a monthly newsletter. from May to August. Private Bookings taken. Contact Alison on 01322 862298, NORTH KENT EMBROIDERERS’ GROUP e-mail alisondukes@btinternet.com Meets on the third Saturday of every month (except August) from 2pm - 4pm STIMUL8 ACTIVITY SERVICE in the Community Room of Gravesend I provide all the equipment, materials and Library, Windmill Street, Gravesend DA12 refreshments with just a small all inclusive, 1BE. The programme of activities is varied pay as you go, fee of £10.00 per person with workshops, talks and sit and stitch per session. sessions. Visitors are very welcome. More Those who come have the opportunity to information can be found on our website learn painting with watercolours, acrylics, www.northkentembroiderers.co.uk or inks and how to draw with pencils, soft phone 01474324734. pastels, oil pastels, charcoals, watercolour pencils, fabric pens, plus basics of THE GARDENING CLUB SUTTON AT sculpting and have the opportunity to sign HONE up to additional floral workshops I offer Monthly meetings, Visits to Gardens, too. www.stimul8-activityservice.co.uk Annual

Garden Show and much more. For more information or to become a member please ring 01322 863556.

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

GIRLGUIDING – DARTFORD DIVISION Girlguiding is the leading charity for girls and young women aged 5-18 in the UK. There are more than 30 groups in the Dartford area run by our amazing volunteers who inspire girls every week.

Our new programme delivers the fun and varied range of activities that you expect from guiding, and of course, there’s still plenty of badges to earn. We’ve introduced new topics, new skills and new ways for girls to broaden their horizons.

There are lots of flexible ways to volunteer so no matter how much time you have you can #inspiregirls too.

If you would like to find out more please register your interest www.girlguiding.org.uk/interested

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WHERE TO GO LOCALLY DARTFORD’S BIG SING

Wednesdays 7pm – 9pm St Edmund’s Living Well Centre, St Edmund’s Road, Dartford, DA1 5ND The DARTFORD’s BIG Sing community choir is open to anyone and everyone!

Come along when you can and sing with us!

Each rehearsal is just £7 and there are NO sign up or long term financial commitments! Just your enthusiasm! Come along any week to sign up as a member!

You don’t need to read music, be able to sing solo’s or even have any experience of singing! However, if you have singing experience we encourage people to try solo’s if they want to!

We sing pop, soul, gospel, RnB, Motown and inspirational songs to uplift and energise your week! Great way to meet new friends in your community! We often perform in and around the community with various events throughout the year!

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

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 54

KENT EXILES AMERICAN FOOTBALL CLUB

www.kentexiles.co.uk.

Coach Martin - 07944 730634.

LITTLE TIGERS - KARATE FOR 3, 4 & All ages from 7 years to adult welcome

5 YEAR OLDS

Sundays 10:15-10:45 at Swanscombe Leisure Centre.

Call Saj on 07903 513104

DARTFORD GYMNASTICS

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

Based in Heath Lane, we are a friendly club with super equipment, great coaches and high standards. We do lots of competitions and we do not close through the holidays!

Visit our website www. dartfordgymnastics.co.uk for full details or contact Linda on 01322 409312 or email dartfordgymclub@ yahoo.co.uk

The choir is open to ALL ages (from 12yrs) LEARN KARATE and ALL abilities in and around the comLearn karate with Yamato Damashii – munity of Dartford - however if you are not from the area, you are welcome too!! for adults & children Every Wednesday evening at the Leigh Academy & every Saturday morning at www.big-sing.com Becket Sport Centre, first lesson free. twitter.com/BIGSing1 For more info, visit www.ydma.club or www.facebook.com/theBIGsing/ find us on Facebook, search for Yamato Damashii Martial Arts.

SPORTS GROUPS AND CLUBS

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

YOGA WITH EMMA

Becket Sports Centre (evenings):

- Mondays: Yoga for Men – 8.30pm to 9.30pm - Thursdays: Hatha Yoga – 6.00pm to 7.00pm - Fridays: Hatha Yoga – 7.00pm to 8.00pm

ENERGY FITNESS AND NUTRITION

I run group fitness classes as well as 1-1 and semi private personal training sessions in Darenth at Dimples Day Nursery DA2 7HT. ENERGY Fitness & Nutrition: we offer a wide variety of group classes such as strength & conditioning, boot camps, Boxercise, mum and baby classes, inside and outside classes with great equipment and suitable for all abilities.

The website is www.energyfitnut.co.uk

HARTLEY SWIMCLUB AT WHITE OAK POOL, SWANLEY

We are a friendly group of adults who meet for a social swim every Thursday at 9pm. We’re looking for new members. Why not give us a try?

Contact Diane on 01689 871846 or join us one Thursday.

DARTFORD JU JITSU CLUB

Mondays 7-8pm for 7-16s at the Dartford Girls Grammar, Shepherds Lane Dartford DA1 2NT in the Dance Studio.

We have an adult class 8-10pm too.

We’ve been running for 20 years, building confidence, teaching self-defence, hardening the target, developing skills and always welcome new members.

DARTFORD ORIENTEERING CLUB

Europa Gymnastics Centre (mornings): For more details see - Wednesdays: Hatha Yoga – 9.30am to 10.30am www.dfok.co.uk - Fridays: Hatha Yoga – 9.30am to 10.30am - Fridays: Mindful Yin Yoga – 10.45am to 11.45am

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HOP LIKE IT’S HOT

D A R T FO R D A N D W H I T E O A K TRIATHLON CLUB We are the local British Triathlon Federation Club covering Bexley, Dartford and Swanley. We offer coached swimming sessions 3 times per week at White oak pool in Swanley and Fairfield pool in Dartford. Our members compete in THE HIGHLY STRUNG BADMINTON many local Triathlons plus many members CLUB, are training towards Iron Man distance.

Friendly club seeking new members.

We also have our own Triathlon in June Abilities mixed. every year which has been running since Would suit players with some prior 1989. If you are interested in joining us experience. then please visit our website Thursdays at 7.45-9.45pm, Dartford Girls’ http://www.dartfordandwhiteoaktri.co.uk A fun (different) circuit based workout with space hoppers that challenges core stabilty, balance and strength. It is suitable for all levels and abilities. Classes are held every Wednesday evening at the stone pavilion starting at 8:15 until 9:00 costing £5 per person.

Grammar School, DA1 2NT For further information please email: stephanie.thredgle@btinternet.com

WAR GAMES AND MODEL CLUB

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

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

Every Sunday Morning in the Park there is a Junior parkrun over 2k – registration is the same.

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

Every Sunday 10-11am – Child friendly coached sessions – Come and join the CPA Swifts – As a fledgling club we would like to give children of all ages and abilities the chance to experience training and The White Oak Triathlon is one of the coaching within a club environment – oldest Triathlon events in England. come and be part of the team Now in its 29th year the event is a club Free first session with this advert organised event, for triathletes delivered by triathletes so you can be sure that SO LET’S GO RUNNING (SLGR) the club focuses upon delivering a first SLGR is a local running club with class race experience. The 2019 race structured training sessions designed will take place on 9th June. to improve runners speed and stamina. h t t p s : // w w w . s t u w e b . c o . u k / events/2019/06/9/3250/ There are currently four runs available with more starting soon; see below for DARTFORD ROAD RUNNERS more details.

Dartford Road Runners are based at Princes Park Stadium and are one of the The Run leaders for each group are as biggest road running clubs in Kent. We follows; currently have about 200 members of all Dartford Cricket Club, Dartford - Dawn abilities including a beginners group. DRR & Brian teams compete in the Kent League, the Assembly League and the Kent Fitness Cyclopark, Gravesend - Dawn & Brian League. To see what we offer and how to New runners are always welcome, and join us please visit our website – anyone you can contact Brian if you would like is welcome to join us with all abilities. more information; see contact details http://dartfordroadrunners.co.uk/ and e-mail link on Our Group page. node/440

DARTFORD HARRIERS ATHLETICS CLUB Dartford Harriers is among the leading athletics clubs in Kent, with a history stretching back to the 1920′s, making it one of the oldest clubs in the country.

If you are interested in seeing how we can help you advance your Athletics then please visit our website http://www.dartfordharriersac.co.uk FOOTSCRAY MEADOW PARKRUN Entries are now open for the 2019 A new Parkrun event with parking at Dartford Half marathon at the website Crazy Barn – The event will be on 3rd march 2019 DARTFORD HEATH PARKRUN Dartford’s 2nd parkrun event is now live. The run starts behind the Heath Lane car park and is a free 5k run every Saturday morning at 9am.

Parking is restricted in the area so please do not park in Heathclose Road and wherever possible please walk.

SEEDS CYCLING CLUB DARTFORD Seeds is a long-established cycling Club in Dartford and we share our headquarters at Hesketh with Dartford Cricket Club.

We cater for most abilities and have a social ride most Saturday mornings. For info on joining us please visit our website www.seedscycling.co.uk

also available. For no extra charge, we hold coached track sessions on Wednesday evenings for runners of all abilities.

CENTRAL PARK ATHLETICS CLUB We are situated in Dartford’s outstanding Central Park and can provide access to a state of the art running track (re-laid in 2015) and the full range of track and field facilities for just £4.50 per session (we offer discounted annual memberships).

Refreshments and changing facilities are

YOGA & MEDITATION CLASSES

Every Tuesday from 6-7pm &Thursday from 10.30am to 12.00pm at Peppercorns, 3 Orchard Street, Dartford, Kent, DA1 2DF. For more information please call The Hope Group on 07580 615206.

DARTFORD BOCCIA CLUB

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

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

All welcome.

Facebook: Dartford Boccia Club

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ADVERTISERS INDEX

DIRECTORY OF LOCAL BUSINESSES ADVERTISING IN DARTFORD LIVING ACCOUNTANTS, FINANCE & LEGAL Downton Ali Associates....................................................59 BUILDERS, DECORATORS ROOFING, BATHROOMS, KITCHENS & WINDOWS Claremont Decorative Services........................................36 Steve Cook - Double Glazing.............................................22 The Double Glazing Repair Man.........................................4 CAFE Two Trees Cafe ................................................................37 CAR CARE ChipsAway..........................................................................11 CHILDREN Bip Bop Shop................................................................19 Hartbeeps....................................................................49 Monkey Music...............................................................55 CHURCH Crossways Church.........................................................7 CLEANING Time for you cleaning................................................34 COUNCIL Dartford Borough Council ................................................31 COUNSELLING Still My Soul..................................................................21 DENTAL CARE Smile Avenue................................................................15 ELECTRICIANS ElectricWorx London...........................................................4 ESTATE/ LETTING AGENTS Fox Estates ........................................................................17 Wisdom Estates.................................................................23

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FARM SHOP Stanhill Farm................................................................32-33 GARAGES & VEHICLE SERVICES Orchard Garage.................................................................60 Shenley Road Garage.........................................................15 JEWELLERY Bradleys..............................................................................25 LOGISTICS/ REMOVALS FD TRANSPORT ..........................................................38 NURSERY Christchurch PreSchool..............................................39 The Brent Playgroup....................................................47 RIVERMILL SCHOOL...................................................39 YMCA..............................................................................5 MEDICAL AND HEALTH Helping Hands..............................................................13 Slimming World...............................................................2 MUSIC/DANCE & FITNESS Blondies Fitness.................................................................22 Dartford Bootcamps..........................................................32 Fairfield Leisure Centre.....................................................30 On Pointe Pilates................................................................19 Why Weight?......................................................................20 OPTICIANS Linklater Opticians.............................................................43 PICTURE FRAMING Craft Frames.......................................................................38 RESTURANT EFES...................................................................................25 RETIREMENT LIVING

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Churchill.......................................................................10 SECURITY Excel Security Systems.....................................................39 SPORTS All Stars Cricket....................................................................6 Dartford Cricket Club.........................................................46 Millwall Football Club....................................................14-15 Paul Page Golf Academy......................................................7 Fairfield Leisure Centre......................................................28 THEATRE Orchard Theatre................................................................43 WEBSITE DESIGN Dartford Living Design................................................30 WILL WRITING SMN Will Writing ..........................................................38

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

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

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

0800 500 3014 Alcoholics Anonymous: 08457 697 555 Citizens Advice Bureau: 01322 472 979 Debt Councilling (CAP) 0800 328 0006 Information About Drugs FRANK: 0800 776600 Kent Homophobic Incident Reporting Line: 0800 328 9162 Kent Racial Incident Reporting Line: 0800 138 1624 Local Breastfeeding Counsellors HEALTH Judianne/Paula Darent Valley Hospital 01322 428100 01322 224072 Dartford East Health Centre National Domestic Violence 01322 421480 Helpline (24 hour) Dartford West Health Centre 0808 2000 247 01322 223600 NSPCC Child Protection Helpline: Boots Chemist Bluewater 0808 800 5000 01322 624780 (Late Night) RSPCA Kent, ASDA Greenhithe Chemist North West Branch Helpline 01322 374100 (Late Night) The National Pandemic Flu Service 01322 286720 0800 1513 100 Samaritans: West Kent NHS helpline 116 123 0800 0 850850 LOCAL MP TRAVEL Gareth Johnson 020 7219 7047 Heathrow Airport Enquires 08700 000123 LOCAL SPORTS CLUBS Bexley Rugby Club Gatwick Airport Enquires 01322 550142 or 08700 002468 www.pitchero.com/clubs/ National Rail Enquires bexleyrfc/ 08456 484950 Dartford Ladies Hockey Club Highways England Info Line Dawn Hall (Secretary) 07793 0300 123 5000 777250 Dartford Ju Jitsu Club Mondays, Dartford Girls HELPLINES 24 Hour Kent Dementia Helpline: Grammar School, Shepherds 58

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

Dartford Sharks Basketball Club Tim Dickson - 07855 692527.

Dartford Volleyball Club Graham - 01322 275290 or 07984 106134.

Stone Lodge Indoor Bowling Club 01322 274111.

VCD Table Tennis Club Eric Jenkins - 0208 3038312.

‘Play & pay’, 9 hole, par 3 golf course on Dartford Football Club’s Princes Park- Contact: 01322 299990 www.dartfordfc.com The Ashes Badminton Club Mondays, Dartford Technology College, Heath Lane. 7.30-9.30.

Jacqui 07764 182854.

Dartford Valley RFC www.pitchero.com/clubs/ darenthvalleyrfc/ USEFUL FACEBOOK GROUPS Dartford Living Dartford Today and Tomorrow Dartford Remembered Dartford Gossip Dartford Living Community Group

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Your pension choices Today's pension savers can enjoy far greater freedom over how they access their pension savings.

If you would like help understanding your pension choices please get in touch.

Call us on 02030210075 Downton & Ali Associates Dartford Business Park Victoria Road Dartford DA1 5FS www.downtonandali.co.uk info@downtonandali.co.uk

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