Dartford Living August 2020

INSIDE THE MAGAZINE BREATHING LIFE INTO THE RIVER DARENT. .

SIMPLE BREATHING FOR BETTER ENERGY

TRAVEL RETURNS

PAGE 6

PAGE 22

PAGES 24-26

AUGUST 2020 - ISSUE 170 - FREE

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BY THE COMMUNITY,

BY THE COMMUNITY, FOR THE COMMUNITY

Dear Readers, Welcome to the August magazine.

We live in strange times, but as usual the magazine is jam packed with lots of local information and local businesses. Please support as many as you can - use them or lose them! Like no time before your community needs you.

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 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.

CONTENTS 6 Breathing life into the River Darent 7 Tesco donates to Wellbing Link 8 24 hour run challenge 8 The World Garden is back open 13 Free cakes for kids - Dartford 14 Dartford Giving 16 Recipe 22 Simple breathing for better energy 24-26 Travel returns - Harden Holidays 28 Fitness August 34 Dementia warning signs 37 Get fit for free this summer 38-39 Life under the stairs 41 Rescue is best 44 Online Theatre roundup 47 Car News 49 ellenor twighlight walk goes virtual for 2020 48-55 Where to go locally 56-57 Advertisers Index 58 Useful Numbers

DARTFORD LIVING MAGAZINE PRINTED BY:

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

ONLINE

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

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By J e ss M e a d

BREATHING LIFE BACK INTO THE RIVER DARENT CHALK STREAM THROUGH CENTRAL PARK

By Jess Mead

The South East Rivers Trust is undertaking a flagship river restoration project to renaturalise the River Darent as it runs through Central Park, Dartford.

Working in partnership with Dartford Borough Council, and with funding from the Environment Agency and Veolia Environmental Trust, the improvements made will kick-start the natural processes of the river and breathe life back into this precious chalk stream.

Dr Samantha Hughes (Project Manager) says “The River Darent is a chalk stream, a rare and unique habitat with only 210 found worldwide. The Darent chalk stream is unhealthy, suffering from a legacy of human modification and pollution. This project aims to reverse this legacy, to restore the River Darent to what a chalk stream should be for local The next steps for the project are to return to site and people to enjoy and to encourage the return of plant up the new banks with a variety of native plants.

There are also plans for volunteering activities such as more wildlife.” river cleanups, however these have been postponed in Over the very wet winter of 2019, South East Rivers light of the current Government guidelines. To stay up to Trust staff worked on site with local contractors to date with volunteering opportunities, the Trust encourages reintroduce chalk stream habitats using nature-based communities to join their Mailing List: methods and materials. The enhancement works www.southeastriverstrust.org/mailing-list/ took place in a virtually “flow free” channel, using a temporary dam to divert flows down the eastern channel in the park. To enable this, over 1000 fish were rescued and safely relocated upstream of the project site.

The channel was narrowed to a more natural width with gently sloping banks created from the silt which had accumulated on the riverbed.

A natural meandering sequence was replicated in the channel, creating areas of slow and fast flowing water to provide different habitats for a variety for fish and freshwater species. Tree roots and branches were anchored in place to provide hiding places for smaller fish.

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TESCO DONATES A SPECIAL TEATIME TREAT TO LIFT SPIRITS

to help make the group’s members who were feeling isolated and anxious, smile. The donation included packets of tea, lemon drizzle and cupcake mixes, eggs and biscuits and some rather nice bags to deliver the gorgeous treats in.

It was a wonderful surprise for everyone at Wellbeing Link and after a series of phone calls to their volunteers everyone pulled out all the stops to ensure the treats were quickly delivered to members.

Kent’s Wellbeing Link, a not-for-profit, volunteer-led community organisation providing support groups for anyone whose life is affected by loneliness, isolation, or health conditions, were delighted to receive an unexpected donation from Tesco Erith.

Wellbeing Link supports groups in Dartford and Northfleet and had to suspend their meetings due to COVID-19 restrictions, leaving many of their members at home, some alone, worried and increasingly isolated. The group ensured that they kept in touch with their clients regularly but knew that spirits were low. The incredible generous and unexpected donation from Tesco Erith was just the treat that members needed to put smiles on their faces.

Julie Quick, Wellbeing Link, said, “There were so many delighted smiles and thanks as we delivered the bag of treats to our members and everyone was so delighted to hear about Tesco Erith’s thoughtfulness at such a difficult time. Our members told us that knowing that you may be out of sight but not out of mind is so important and has given us the lift we needed during the stressful period of lockdown.”

To find out more about Wellbeing Link visit www.wellbeinglink.org.uk

Out of the blue, Wellbeing Link received a phone call from Tesco’s Community Champion for Erith, Angel Taylor, promising a teatime treat donation

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KentW s’ elben ig Ln ia k n , ot-for-provfto i, lunteer-led communtio yrgansiato in provd in ig supporg troupfsoa rnyonw e hoslfa sei ffected blyoneln i esiso , lato in o,h realth condtionw s, erd eelg i hted to recevia en unexpected donato in from Tesco Ertih.

TEENAGERS TAKE ON 24 HOUR RUNNING CHARITY CHALLENGE

Looking for a different way to raise money for the Ellenor Hospice, Kent County and London Pulse Net Ball Club player Emily Geear (17) was inspired by a Tik Tok challenge to run 24 miles in 24 hours. She just needed a partner to run with.

Speaking about the charity challenge Emily explained: “I wanted to raise funds for the Ellenor Hospice in memory of my Uncle Steve but I needed a partner to join me run one mile every hour for 24 hours - so I asked my mum, Sam.” Fortunately for Sam Geear her place on the start line was taken by Emily’s friend, Dartford Football Academy student, Alfie Evans (18). Kicking off at 9 am the two teenagers then ran 26 miles over the next 24 hours, slipping in the extra two miles to make the challenge up to a marathon distance.

Having run all day and through the following night the

weary runners were joined by their families and friends who helped them cover the last two miles. With the last leg finishing at 8.30 am Emily and Alfie had run the 25 miles in a combined time of 3 hrs 34 mins and raised £1,915 for the Ellenor Hospice.

THE WORLD GARDEN IS NOW OPEN We are delighted to announce that we are opening The World Garden and grounds to visitors from the 3rd July to 31st October, every Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Bank Holiday Monday from 12 noon - 5pm.

When visiting, there will be certain new measures in place reflecting current times.

- Please respect the 2 metre social distancing rule at all times.

- Track & Trace recording takes place on arrival (persons name, contact number, date and time of arrival). Concerning GDPR the data collected is held for 21 days only.

- No pre-booking required - All visitors to park at the Gatehouse entrance via Lullingstone Lane (no access from Shoreham Road) - There will be no Special Events and no Guided Tours for the foreseeable future - Card payment only - The house will remain closed. However there will still be limited stock available on request from the Gift Shop - The Parish Church of St Botolph’s will be closed until further notice

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- Limited toilet facilities (Gatehouse only) - Orchid & Hot ‘n’ Juicy Cactus House closed - Plant Nursery (only 5 people browsing at any one time) - Wheelchairs are currently unavailable https://www.lullingstonecastle.co.uk/opening-timesand-admission-prices

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By Lo u i s e Ga r n e r

FREE CAKES FOR KIDS – DARTFORD

By Louise Garner Do you make a smashing sponge or a dazzling drizzle?

Can you make some birthday dreams come true? Are you more of a baker who makes yummy cakes that you think children will love? Do you maybe have experience of making more unusual cakes, or cakes for people with allergies and food intolerances? We’d love for you to join in and help brighten someone’s special day. Even if it’s preparing for your next audition of the Great British Bake Off (when it’s finally back), we’d love for you to be involved. There are no limits to how many cakes you would need to bake in a year, whether it’s the odd one when you can or more if you really enjoy it. We’ll need you to register with Dartford Environmental Health, but we will support you to do this and beyond.

If you would like to get involved as a baker, delivery person, help with funding or if you work for an organisation/ school/foodbank/charity/church please get in touch.

Please register your interest by emailing or completing our volunteer registration form, available on our facebook page.

Requests for cakes can only be accepted from organisations, charities, schools, food bank etc. If you would like a request form please email us or there is one available on our facebook page.

For more information, cake request form or to register as a volunteer then get in touch: Louise Garner – Coordinator of Dartford Free Cakes for Kids: E: freecakesforkidsdartford@gmail.com When planning a child’s birthday, what do you need? T: 07973 896216 Sometimes it’s difficult to provide a birthday cake facebook page @freecakesforkidsdartford for your child, whether it’s because you’re living in temporary accommodation, have a lack of funds or health issues are getting in the way. Well, that’s where ‘Free Cakes for Kids Dartford’ can help.

Dartford Free Cakes for Kids Coordinator, Louise Garner explains; “We are volunteer amateur bakers, baking in our own kitchens, who can offer a free of charge birthday cake for families who otherwise might not be able to provide one. We’re just starting out, are currently recruiting volunteer local bakers and are getting the word out there.

Everyone should feel special on their birthday, but especially children. Most people just assume that every child will have a cake but sadly this isn’t the case. We want to help change this.”

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DA RTFO R D GIVING

DARTFORD GIVING

By Kate Hargreaves

Welcome to this new volunteer-focussed feature of your Dartford Living – Dartford Giving. Each month we will be showcasing different volunteering roles and giving you information about how you can get involved. We’ll look at regular and ad hoc volunteering, and at roles for different skillsets.

There are many benefits of any volunteering role, including increasing social ties, promoting positive mental health and boosting your CV, as well as bringing you some extra good karma.

charity will match you with someone who has similar interests. You will start having regular oneto-one calls, in which you can chat about anything.

If you struggle to form a bond with the person you’re paired with, you can ask to be re-matched. The role is open-ended and continues until either of you no longer wishes to do so.

This sounds great, how do I get involved? There are a variety of charities offering these services, a local one being Age UK North West Kent. I personally In this first Dartford Giving, we will look at a role recommend b:friend (www.letsbfriend.org.uk), a you can carry out from home, while the world is still charity based in Doncaster and currently welcoming getting back to normal. volunteers from all over the country for telephoneonly befriending services.

Befriending What is it? Having telephone calls with a vulnerable If you have any questions or if this has inspired you (usually elderly or disabled) person. to reach out as a befriender, do let us know how you get on, by emailing kate@dartfordliving.com. Happy Would I enjoy it? If you like talking to people from volunteering! different backgrounds, then yes. People who use these services tend to be older, so depending on your own age, you could learn about a different generation, or reminisce together about years gone by.

What would I get out of it? A new friend! You can get to know someone that you otherwise might never have met. Having a befriender role on your CV shows potential employers that you have great interpersonal skills. You also get the feel-good factor of being kind to someone who might otherwise have been a bit lonely.

How much time do I need for it? You’ll be making a phone call at least once a week, at a time that suits you, on an on-going basis. The length of each call will naturally vary, depending on how much you both have to say.

Are there any requirements? Not really – just being a nice person (which you are, as you’re reading an article about volunteering…) who has some time to talk to someone new, as well as having a phone to make the calls. These services often require a DBS background check as you’ll be talking to a vulnerable person, but the charity will organise (and pay for) that.

So how does it actually work? You usually sign up via a charity’s website. After the DBS check, the

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e asy c h e e s e

EASY CHEESE STRAWS

By Debbie Dickinson These are made using just 4 basic ingredients and then allow yourself to experiment by adding your own favourite flavours/seasonings.

You’ll need: 100g plain flour 50g cheese (I used extra mature cheddar) 50g salted block butter – straight from the fridge and cut into small cubes (or grated) 1 egg yolk (you could use the egg white to make meringue – see Dartford Living magazine April 2019 for my quick and easy recipe) Herbs/Spices/Mustard Powder/Marmite (optional) What to do: Weigh the flour into a large bowl and add the butter.

Using just your fingertips, rub the butter into the flour until it resembles breadcrumbs.

Finely grate in the cheese and stir to combine.

If you wanted to add flavourings add these now.

Just a pinch/tsp will be enough - herbs/mustard powder/spices, Marmite also works well. Not too much if you’re adding a wet ingredient! You don’t want to change the consistency of the final dough.

Now add the egg yolk and mix until you get a smooth dough.

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Popping the dough in the fridge for 10 minutes will make it easier to shape/roll out.

For cheese straws, pinch off small amounts of dough and roll into sausage shapes – try to keep a consistent width to ensure they bake equally.

Or you could roll out the dough (between 2 sheets of baking paper to avoid sticking) and use small cookie cutters to make cheesy biscuits.

Pop back in the fridge while you heat up the oven.

This helps them keep their shape while baking.

Bake at 180°C for 7-10 minutes until lightly golden (or bake a little longer for a crispier bite) Enjoy!

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TRY THIS SIMPLE 2 MINUTE BREATHING PRACTICE FOR BETTER ENERGY

By Clair Yates Last month I told you there was an exercise so powerful that within a couple of minutes practice it could lower your heart rate, boost your digestion and improve your sleep and that this same exercise practiced to extreme can have hallucinogenic effects and create out of body experiences – let me remind you, it’s called breathing!

has an adaptogenic effect on your nervous system - if you’re up, it will bring you down; if you’re down, it will bring you up. You can use this technique any time, day or night, before high-stress activities to balance your nerves and when you’re feeling sluggish to balance your energy so you can get on with what needs doing. Like sipping a glass of water throughout the day to keep you hydrated, it’s always a good choice. Using this practice, we are Breathing for most of us, most of the time is totally aiming to breathe at around 4-6 breathes per minute. automatic, governed by our autonomic nervous system, it happens all by itself. However, we can • Inhale through your nose counting slowly 1-2-3-4, small override our natural breath and if we know how, we pause at the top of the inhale can create an effect within a few minutes of practice. • Exhale through your nose counting slowly 4-3-2-1 small pause at the end of the exhale If you are already practicing yoga, you may have • Repeat for 10 rounds realized that there’s an infinite number of breathing practices, but what may not be so clear is that there That’s right, that’s it. It is that simple. I encourage you to is a finite number of results. Breathing practices try it a few times a day and see how you feel. Let me know can promote one of three different nervous system how you get on. Take care of yourself, Clair. responses: 1. a balancing effect on the nervous system 2. a downregulating effect on the nervous system, stimulating the parasympathetic response that can feel calming 3. an upregulating, sympathetic effect on the nervous system that can feel energizing.

• Balancing breath practices are always a good choice, day or night. They can be used freely without any concerns.

• Down-regulating breathing techniques, relieve stress, and can help put you to sleep. These practices can leave practitioners feeling groggy and soporific so use with care.

• Up-regulating breath practices, wake you up and prepare your body for activity. They can over stimulate the nervous system and can lead to feelings of restlessness, they can disrupt your digestion and they dampen the impulse to breath, so we should exercise caution when practicing this type of breathing technique.

This month I want to share with you a very simple, easy balancing breathing technique. This technique

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TRAVEL IS BACK

By Harden Holidays

Hello sunshine! Last week the team at Harden Holidays set off to the Costa del Sol in Spain to experience current holiday conditions, and see if it’s possible to have an enjoyable family holiday this summer.

Some of you may have followed our trip live on Facebook @HardenHolidays #HHCostaDelSol where we posted lots of images and videos – here you will find the full details of our experience.

Pre-Departure – Most countries included on the travel corridor list have their own requirements for Passenger Locator Forms.

For Spain we had the option to fill this in electronically 48 hours before departure or we could have opted for a paper version on the aircraft or upon arrival at the airport.

The form takes 10 minutes to complete and it is very straight forward: a section about you, your details, travel details and accommodation details. It produced a QR code that we then had to present on arrival.

PRE-DEPARTURE TIP – Make sure you check your options for entry forms as some countries may only have the electronic version. We help guide our clients through this – if you are not sure come and talk to us.

Airport Experience – After a very quick and easy drive we arrived at Stansted Airport, parked up, put our masks on and made our way into the terminal. At first glance it looked really quiet until we quickly realised we were at Arrivals end of the terminal, as soon as we approached the check-in desk there was a real buzz of people (mainly families) dropping off luggage and heading through to security. Hand sanitisers were widely available and some of the vending machines were updated to sell masks and hand sanitizers. Very little food & drink facilities open landside – we found a much better selection once we were airside.

Security procedures remains the same – belts and shoes off – the only difference is the mask. You could tell staff were glad to be back!

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T RAVEL IS BAC K

purchase a comfortable mask before you travel.

We wore ours throughout travelling, which was 5+ hours, and it was only briefly removed for a drink or snack.

Flight Experience – Our flight was approximately 70% full, mainly families and the masks and seat belt sign stayed on for the duration of the flight.

We were asked to remain seated and press the call button should we need to use the toilets. Everyone on the aircraft was compliant with the new rules which made the journey straightforward. The crew delivered the in-flight service very efficiently and with a big smile from under their face masks. Again, you can tell how happy everyone was to be back!

Hello Costa Del Sol! Once we landed in Malaga, we had our temperature taken and the staff scanned our QR codes. This was the only major difference to the arrival process really. Social distancing was complied with throughout Malaga airport and all of the staff we came in contact with were very friendly and polite.

We opted for a private transfer and our drive was waiting to take us to our first stop – Benalmadena.

The day before our arrival the whole region of Andalucía made it mandatory to wear face coverings in all public areas including out on the streets. This felt a bit uncomfortable to start with because of the heat however we adapted to it quickly and felt safer by having it on. This was also helped by the fact that 99% of the people around us were wearing theirs.

We checked in at Royal Oasis Diamond Resorts Pueblo Quinta for one night, self-catering in a one bedroom apartment. It is a great location for self-catering as you have a really great choice

of food and drinks up and down the sea-front promenade. The hotel was really strict with their new H&S measures, we were asked to sanitise our hands and wipe our shoes when we came in. Our luggage was sprayed with disinfectant, the staff were wearing masks and gloves – the check-in was completed contactless on a tablet. Our apartment had a seal on the door to show it has been cleaned to Covid standards and it has not been accessed since. The process took a lot longer than usual, however seeing all the measures that have been implemented made us feel safe.

The masks were allowed to come off around the pool area and if you are sitting on the beach or in a restaurant/bar where tables are at a safe distance from other guests.

Most of the restaurants and bars were open along the seafront, all keen for business – one restaurateur was so excited to hear English speaking guests - he asked where we were from and he did a little dance at the confirmation that ‘planes started coming in from England!’.

The food was delicious, the sun was shining, the sea was warm, and the local hospitality was just great.

Hello Palladium Costa Del Sol! Our trip was followed by a 4-night stay at the Palladium Costa Del Sol, a bit further down the coast from Benalmadena. We wanted to explore the resort – all-inclusive type holiday.

This area lends itself to being all-inclusive as there are few options for food & drink within walking distance.

We arrived on re-opening day – we could tell the staff were a bit nervous and excited at the same time. Hand sanitizers and Covid related signage

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T RAVEL IS BAC K

were available throughout the hotel. The hotel itself was spotlessly clean. Most facilities were open with the exception of the Spa. We were given set times for our breakfast, lunch and dinner which we mostly followed, these were served in the main dining room buffet style. The staff were serving the food from behind a glass shield – no self-service, however the same buffet principles applied – they were happy to serve you anything you wanted and as much as you wanted.

The hotel is right on the beach built into a cliffside with fantastic sea-views from wherever you were.

We enjoyed the warm clear sea, the 2 pool areas – one adult only with an infinity pool and one family friendly with a couple of slides and a jacuzzi. In the evening we particularly enjoyed Nix Sky Lounge – a roof top area with 3 jacuzzis, day beds and a lovely bar and seating area. The atmosphere in the evening was great with various DJs and singers taking centre stage. The highlight for our 6-year-old was a group of flamenco dancers that set the floor alight in their Vodevil Theatre on the night we arrived.

It was really difficult to pack up and leave – we were very tempted to extend our stay by a couple of nights but off we were back to Malaga airport at 9 am as scheduled. The airport was fairly quiet but looking on the departure board we could see that between 0900-1630 there are over 60 flights departing! It is compulsory to wear masks at all times and there are PA’s to remind passengers of this at all times. There are signs on all the seats so you can distance correctly and there are also announcements telling you to follow the social distancing guidelines. It was a bit slow to get through security however once airside, Duty free shop was open, and they have some amazing deals! Obviously, we ended up shopping! Burger King, Costa and Jamie’s food place were all closed, but there were some other small shops that you can buy sandwiches and drinks from.

Arrival back into the UK – An entry form needs completion on re-entering the UK, not earlier than 48h before arrival. The Passenger Locator Form can only be accessed online, and it asks for very similar information as the pre-departure form i.e. personal details and where will you be staying in the UK. Please be aware there is no option for paper copy, we have seen many caught out by this and trying to fill it in at the airport on their phones as they won’t let you pass security without it. A bad signal could delay your arrival processing.

Travel this summer is a very personal choice, we understand and promote that. Our experience from the last few days has shown that despite all the restrictions the key elements of a holiday still exist.

We enjoyed delicious food, cocktails aplenty, lots of fun by the pool and exploring the warm sea, made new friends and enjoyed the local hospitality.

For more photos and videos visit out Facebook Page @HardenHoldiays or pop in to see us in the town centre.

Note: This article was written prior to the change in the travel advice from the FCO to Spain. As we have seen during the last few months advice and regulation change quickly and frequently. This may well have changed again by the time of publication.

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) 26

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27

FITNESS - AUGUST

FITNESS - AUGUST

By Mark Broadbent Fasting for Weight Loss Fasting, or Intermittent Fasting, has become very popular over the last decade or so. Lots of research has been done on the many types of fasting and people have used it for many reasons.

Perhaps the main reason that people use fasting these days though, is for weight loss. This is probably the LAST reason I’d suggest doing a fast (despite the title of this article!)

But‌ It can be utilised if done sensibly.

So rather than try to convince you that fasting is not a good idea if you want to lose weight (because you’ll probably do it anyway), I’m going to try to steer you in the right direction, so that if you do use it, you’ll hopefully gain the most benefit with the least amount of damage!

Weight loss comes down to energy balance. There are many nuances that affect things, but essentially, calories in vs calories out is the master control for your weight.

So if you go a day without eating, you’re probably about 2,000 calories down. This will obviously help with any weight loss efforts.

If you eat 2,000 calories a day and fast for one day a week, you’ll bring your weekly calories down from 14,000 to 12,000 (in theory).

However‌ that one day without eating is probably going to be hard. And most people will come out of that fast and over-eat at least a little bit to compensate.

The key is to go right back to normal. Don’t eat anything extra, don’t make poor food choices (because we tend to do that when we’re hungry – just try going to the supermarket when you’re hungry and see what “extras� you come back with!), just pretend the fast never happened.

If you can come out of a fast and make healthy choices, you may be able to get away with it. If you come out of a fast and head straight for the biscuits and pizza – it’s probably not for you! (This is like following a Diet and planning a blowout the day you finish!)

An easier approach which I would recommend first, is to take that weekly total (12,000 calories) and split it over the 7 days. About 1,715 calories a day.

Same weekly total, meaning the same amount of weight loss, but set out in a much more manageable way – no starving yourself for a day and no rebound binge eating afterwards.

It doesn’t have to be exact. Some days will be slightly over, some will be slightly under, as long as it averages out at the weekly total – same end result.

If you do also want to get some of the health benefits from fasting though, you can use a method called Time Restricted Eating.

Instead of restricting calories or foods, you simply limit the time window in which you eat every day.

For example, you could eat all of your food within a 10-12 hour window. First calories go in at 8am, last calories go in at 8pm.

Then you have a 12-hour fast overnight until the next morning.

This means you get to eat every day, but you also get many of the benefits of fasting because you have a 12 hour fast every day.

Whilst the benefits of a 12-hour fast may not be as profound as a 24+ hour fast, the fact that you’re doing it daily will have a

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cumulative effect and over time, you’ll likely see the health improvements associated with fasting.

You could even bring this “eating window� down to around 8 hours, though that’s not completely necessary – from what I’ve read, as long as your fast is 12 hours or more, you’ll get the benefit from it. Personally, I have an 11-hour eating window and fast for 13 hours each day.

What this meant for me was simply making sure I eat dinner a bit earlier so I wasn’t going to bed before I’d finished digesting my food, and stopping the mindless snacking between dinner and bedtime.

This can be great for weight loss because after a certain cut-off time, there’s no more food. You might save yourself a couple of hundred calories a day because you can’t eat (or drink) any calories after your cut-off time.

If you’re thinking of “doing fasting� and the idea of simply spreading your calories over the week isn’t floating your boat, then this is the option I’d start with.

You may find with the smaller time window that you eat less food overall, meaning weight loss, PLUS the benefits of the 12-14 hour fasting.

It’s important that you do still try to eat a healthy diet.

Don’t try to cram everything in because you’re on a time limit. Eat normally, making the best food choices you can and are willing to, just stop at a certain time.

You can choose the time window – If you want to eat something at 6am that’s fine, just finish by 6pm. If you’d rather wait and start at 9am, that’s fine too, just finish by 9.

Do bear in mind though that you should be aiming to stop eating at least 2-3 hours before going to bed to ensure digestion is complete, so maybe work backwards from your bedtime to set your start time.

These are the methods I’d recommend trying before you do anything more extreme.

One 24 hour fast isn’t going to get the weight off – it’s not a miracle cure, it’s just calorie restriction.

Please don’t just jump right into every other day fasting because someone’s recommended it to you – for most people this is NOT a good idea. It’s just extreme calorie restriction (you’re halving your calorie intake over the week!)

This probably isn’t sustainable for most people and you’ll likely end up deficient in some vitamins and minerals because you’re simply not eating enough, and what you do eat probably isn’t the most nutritious stuff anyway (or you wouldn’t need to try such an extreme method for weight loss!).

If you have any questions around this, or anything else I might be able to help with, let me know and I’ll try to answer them for you đ&#x;˜Š And as always, if you want my help getting a suitable training and nutrition plan set up, get in touch and we can go through your options. www.MBonlinePT.com @MarkBroadbentPT

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WESTGATE DARTFORD FITNESS - AUGUST

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DARTFORD’s

S S E N I S U B N I BACK

FITNESS - AUGUST

Support for local businesses from

We’re doing everything we can to help Dartford shops, businesses and markets get up-and-running again. It’s not something we can rush and as they start to open EVERY shopper has a big part to play.

PLEASE KEEP YOUR DISTANCE WHILST SHOPPING Putting space between you and other shoppers can help stop the spread of the virus. Maintain social distancing at every opportunity.

PLEASE DON’T TAKE THE WHOLE FAMILY We’re not yet ready to recommend shopping as a family or social activity.

Please don’t shop in groups.

WASH YOUR HANDS BEFORE AND AFTER SHOPPING Get in the habit of washing your hands before you set out shopping and wash again as soon as you get home.

TRY SHOPPING AT DIFFERENT TIMES Shops are generally well-stocked so avoiding peak shopping times can help key retail workers manage demand and social distancing.

Consider shopping earlier or later than usual.

FINALLY- BE KIND, BE PATIENT and BE UNDERSTANDING These are tough times for everyone - retail workers and shopkeepers included. Be patient and understand that everyone is trying their very best.

Jeremy Kite, Leader of the Council

DARTFORD

together

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By S u s a n N o rr i s

WHY YOU SHOULD HAVE A WILL AND A LASTING POWER OF ATTORNEY

By Susan Norris Have you ever thought about who will inherit your personal articles and money when you pass away or what would happen if you want into care?

If you don’t make a Will it is called an “intestacy”, the Government and law will impose an order of relatives who will inherit what you own including property and any money you have.

If you don’t want those relatives to inherit what you have, or perhaps, to enable you to protect you from prospective IHT charges (currently charged at 40p in the pound sterling) you should take tax planning to enable you to maximise your allowances and discuss making a Will to make sure that you leave your estate to whom you want it to go to.

home they will want to liaise with someone who is close to you in order to carry out your wishes. If you do not have mental capacity an appropriate Deputyship will have to be obtained by making an application to the Court of Protection to enable a person to become a Deputy to take over your affairs which can cost a lot of money in court fees and legal fees. A Deputy carries out the same duties as an Attorney under a Lasting Power of Attorney but they have to report all expenditure to the Court of Protection and keep accounts. Cut out all this worry by having a Lasting Power of Attorney prepared in the first instance.

The matter of making a Will or Lasting Powers of Attorney should be thought about carefully and discussed with your family or close relatives.

If you need a Lasting Power of Attorney for Property and Financial Matters and/or for Mental Health and Welfare Matters then these need to be discussed with close relatives who you want to act as Attorneys who have a very important job in carrying out the duties under the Lasting Powers of Attorney. An Attorney carries out any wishes that you put in the Lasting Power of Attorney.

If you have to go into care or have carers come into your

If you want more information please contact SMN Willwriting Services who will be happy to discuss with you about making a Will or Lasting Powers of Attorney. We also deal with Trusts and Probate.

To discuss please telephone number 01322 291379, website www.smnwillwritingservices.com which will offer more in depth information.

Email: susan.norris@smnwillwritingservices.com

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By S u s a n N o rr i s

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By C h r i st i n a U p p e n k a m p - H o m e I n st e a d S e n i o r Ca r e

DEMENTIA WARNING SIGNS

By Christina Uppenkamp - Home Instead Senior Care

According to The Alzheimer’s Society, there are 850,000 people with dementia in the UK with numbers set to rise to 1 million by 2025. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, but what all forms of dementia have in common is a high risk of behavioural disorders- change in personality and people behaving out of character.

Here are some warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease that are important to look out for.

Memory loss that disrupts daily life: One of the most common signs is memory loss, especially forgetting recently learned information.

Challenges in planning or solving problems: Some people may experience changes in their ability to develop and follow a plan or work with numbers.

Difficulty completing familiar tasks at home, at work, or at leisure: People sometimes may have trouble driving to a familiar location, managing a budget at work or remembering the rules of a favourite game.

Confusion with time or place: Losing track of dates, seasons, and the passage of time.

Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships: For some people, having vision problems is a sign. They may not realise they are the person in the mirror, for instance.

New problems with words in speaking or writing: You may notice a person has trouble following or joining a conversation.

Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps: Placing things in random unusual places.

Sometimes the person may accuse others of stealing the items.

Decreased or poor judgment: Experience changes in judgment or decision making Changes in mood or personality: Some can become confused, suspicious, depressed, fearful, or anxious. They may be easily upset at home, at work, or with friends or in places where they are

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out of their comfort zone.

If you have questions or concerns about dementia, it is best to visit with your GP, who can help guide you in the right direction.

If you would like to speak to someone at Home Instead Dartford to get some support at home, please do not hesitate to get in touch via 01322 584438 or www.homeinstead.co.uk/dartford.

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When Government advice allows, the regular schedule of in person group classes in Hextable, Swanley, Sidcup and Bexleyheath will resume. For now, all regular group classes are being held online.

Yoga Alliance Professionals Senior Yoga Teacher and British Wheel of Yoga Foundation Course Tutor, I am qualified and experienced in making yoga accessible.

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GET FIT FO R F R EE THIS SUMME R

GET FIT FOR FREE THIS SUMMER

As we emerge from the recent lockdown into a ‘new normal’, we may plan to get fitter and more active. Research by Ipsos Mori and King’s College London states that nearly half of us in the UK have put on weight during the lockdown. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing, but if you do want to get into shape, we have some great tips to share with you. CAP Life Skills, which is run through churches all over the country, aims to equip members to live healthier and happier lives, physically, financially and mentally.

Here are some tips from the course to help you live more healthily, even on a tight budget.

It’s not all about the gym Even when gyms are allowed to reopen, a membership may be unaffordable for you. But there are plenty of free or low cost ways to exercise. Why not look online for free workout videos to get started?

If you feel you’re not a healthy weight, it may be possible for your doctor to refer you to a local fitness class or a diet club such as Slimming World. Get in touch with your doctor to find out what support is available.

Get fit while commuting to work When money’s tight, you may need to cut down on transport costs. Look at this as a great opportunity to get exercise into your day by walking or cycling to work (or part of the journey). You may be able to pick up a free or low-cost second-hand bike through a local bike recycling scheme. Get in touch with your local council to see what’s available in your area.

Free apps and websites may help us reach our fitness goals Everyone seems to be talking about the free Couch to 5K app at the moment. Why not give it a try?

The app offers a gentle approach to building up your fitness level with guidance. All you need is a smartphone and a pair of trainers.

You’ll also find some great fitness ideas online at nhs.uk/live-well.

We can still eat healthily on a budget Whether we’re dieting, on a budget, or both, we all want to make yummy meals that our family will love. Research from Forbes. com and the University of Dundee suggests that creating a meal plan and cooking using fresh ingredients

can help to lower costs. Package up any leftovers and either pop them in the freezer for when you need a quick meal, or use them for tomorrow’s lunch.

Check out the reduced section in your local supermarket for a bargain or two, but avoid getting pulled in by unnecessary purchases. CAP Life Skills encourages members to shop with a list and stick to it.

If you find a reduced item that’s on your list, go for it!

You’ll find some great moneysaving meal ideas online, such a s j a m i e o l i ve r.co m / fa m i l y/ money-saving-recipes or cookingonabootstrap.com.

Christians Against Poverty (CAP) is a UK charity with services across the country delivering debt counselling, money management, job clubs, life skills groups, and support for people breaking habitual dependencies.

Visit capuk.org to find out more.

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LIFE UNDE R THE STAI R S

For example, while shopping was the norm for many of us; groceries delivered around our working hours, no more crowded malls and queueing, the lack of opportunity to window shop, and treat ourselves to an impulse buy was taken away. So, we adapt. Now I tend to buy most things online, from cat food to organic rice, shoes to new bath towels.

LIFE UNDER THE STAIRS

BY LOCAL RESIDENT, JANE STEVENSON IT’S LIFE JIM, BUT NOT AS WE KNOW IT….

I make no apology for writing again about lockdown and the virus – after all there has been little else to occupy us for some months now; Change is in the air.

Slowly and carefully we are gradually returning to our towns and villages other than for the essentials. Depending upon your priorities I suppose, the ‘essentials’ differ for each of us.

My present to me was a decent hair cut after four months of isolation. I’m amazed at how positive a response it generated.

I felt better, happier and a little more in charge of my own life. Such a huge effect following a simple act, it demonstrated it is the little things which often give us the mental boost we need.

I haven’t ventured out into the town myself – I am still concerned about the virus, especially as it seems to mutate so quickly. I have the face masks, the sanitizer and enough hand cream to paint the Forth Bridge, yet the desire to run free through the High Street simply isn’t there.

I suppose the indisputable fact is that life has changed. We must cultivate an awareness of space, observe new social rules and understand that Covid 19 has sign posted a change in attitudes and actions. Our own education about the virus and our lives is an essential learning curve.

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Being of the older generation, it is simply easier for me.

Clothes shopping is more relaxed. No more tiny cubicles or crowded open dressing rooms. I can buy and try at home, safe in the knowledge that no one is going to keel over with shock at my wrinkly knees, or worse, nor my inappropriate choice of garment – I confess to having purchased a pair of low crotch harem pants because they are so comfortable … and plan to buy another pair.

I feel for those small business owners, still in a state of flux, not knowing if they will ever open again. Such a draconian situation has even rendered companies such as Boots and John Lewis to make redundancies and permanently close some stores. The effect of the local community in an already testing time will be unwelcome.

Having spent many years in paid and volunteer employment for charity, I am especially concerned about how the smaller organisations will manage. Fundraising events and street collections are no longer viable. Often such actions are the bread and butter for them. Most are digging into reserves, relying on donations from supporters, and unable to progress.

As a volunteer for an animal welfare charity, I have been advised I won’t be required to return until at least 2021. In the meantime, my role as kennel cleaner, food preparation and socialiser to bewildered and scared animals is being carried out by the full time staff, whose roles I was supposed to support. Sadly, the number of abandoned animals hasn’t lessened.

We all have our own view of such work. Although it seems churlish to ask, please, if you have a spare fiver, you might consider donating to your own favourite charity, be it for people, animals, here or abroad.

AND SO, FORWARD “The future depends on what we do in the present.”

Ghandi.

If my local area is anything to go by, I think the future is looking good. The Thursday Clap for Carers, which began life as recognition for the work of the NHS all those weeks ago, has developed into a community that now shares and supports each other. Offers to shop for some of our less agile residents

LIFE UNDE R THE STAI R S

is a regular occurrence. We greet each other with smiles and friendly comments. Prescriptions are delivered by hard working volunteer drivers and the number of free items advertised on our local village social media page ”for collection – top of the drive” is staggering. There are plans afoot for a home-based boot fair, and a street party for August Bank Holiday has been suggested. A few months ago, this simply wouldn’t have happened.

My thoughts go out to those who have lost loved ones, or who are parted from family – this is time we will never get back. However, there is always a silver lining, despite a coat of tarnish! We have come a long way in a few short weeks. We have had to change, and it has been for the better. I am not naïve enough to suggest some won’t return to old ways, but if Covid 19 has done one positive thing, it has taught us to slow down, think more and be kinder to each other and ourselves.

up on news and views while sitting in the garden drinking tea and discussing everything from the government to the lack of decent drama on the TV. I still must cope with not hugging my children.

Eldest Offspring has been amazing, bringing shopping round for us in the early days, despite an hour’s round trip for her, and chatting from the end of the drive. Not the same with Youngest Offspring due to him being the other side of the country.

Once I have that first post lock down hug with them, life as I know it, will be back on keel.

Best wishes and good health to you all Wishing all Dartford Living readers well. See you next month

Personally, the loss of freedom was a small price to pay for staying safe. I did miss meeting friends for a coffee or those long leisurely lunches. Pavement visiting was OK, but now I can visit at home, catch

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LIFE UNDE R THE STAI R S

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RESCUE IS BEST R ESCUE IS BEST

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

Name: Jack; Breed: Parson Russell Terrier; Sex: Male; Age: 9 years 12 months; Centre: Brands Hatch; Reference: 385734 Meet our sweet Jack! Although he is already 9 years old, he has the energy and spirit of a youngster. He is a lovely boy who instantly makes friends with everyone he greets. Jack has got a sensitive side as well and he will need a lot of patience and understanding to help him settle into a new home. He can be worried around household appliances and can be vocal and destructive too. His new family will need to offer him a lot love and reassurance to help building his confidence around the household and teach him some good manners via positive training. Jack also is very fond of his toys and he doesn’t always like sharing them, especially with other dogs, so his new owners will need to be mindful of that and learn how to manage the behaviour at home and when out and about. Jack loves his food and he is a quick learner. With his sweet and lively nature will never be bored again!

Battersea has introduced a new rehoming process to take into account social distancing rules. As a result, the charity is prioritising existing rehoming applications and those who have a home set up that enables safe and social distancing delivery.

For more information, please visit www.battersea.org.uk

SPORTING ROUNDUP Leeds United is back in the Premier League for the first time since 2004, confirming their promotion to England’s top flight next season with two games to spare. Leeds are one of England’s biggest clubs, with their legion of fanatical fans following them around the country and regularly attracting home crowds of over 30,000 despite years of underachievement. Their manager, Marcelo Bielsa, has earned iconic status in west Yorkshire after the Leeds boss finally put his club back on the football map. Now they can look forward to renewing old rivalries with Manchester United and Chelsea next season.

The Ballon d’Or for the world’s best players will not be awarded in 2020 because of a “lack of sufficient fair conditions” created by the coronavirus pandemic. The prize has been awarded by France Football every year since 1956. Barcelona’s Lionel Messi won the men’s prize last year, with USA forward Megan Rapinoe claiming the women’s trophy.

England’s Stanley Matthews was the first winner of the award when it was the European Footballer of the Year.

Upcoming events in August include: 1: Football - FA Cup final, Wembley Stadium 1: Cricket - County season to start 3: Tennis - WTA tour set to resume 5-9: Cricket - England v Pakistan 1st Test, Old Trafford 6-9: Golf - US PGA Championship, TPC Harding Park, San Francisco 7-9: Formula 1 - 70th Anniversary Grand Prix, Silverstone 13-17: Cricket - England v Pakistan 2nd Test, Ageas Bowl, Southampton 14: Rugby Union - Premierships season resumes with Harlequins v Sale 14: Athletics - Diamond League, Monaco 14-16: Formula 1 - Spanish Grand Prix, Circuit de Barcelona 18-19: Football - Champions League semi-finals, Lisbon 21: Football - Europa League final, Cologne 21-25: Cricket - England v Pakistan 3rd Test, Ageas Bowl, Southampton 22: Boxing - Dillian Whyte defends his WBC interim heavyweight world title against Alexander Povetkin 23: Football - Champions League final, Lisbon 28-30: Formula 1 - Belgian Grand Prix, SpaFrancorchamps 29 Aug-20 Sept: Cycling - Tour de France 31 Aug-13 Sept: Tennis - US Open, New York

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SPO RTING ROUNDUP

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o n l i n e THEAT R E Ro u n d u p

ONLINE THEATRE ROUNDUP

By Liz Dyer Sad as it is that we’re now into our fourth month without any live theatre, there is a glimmer of hope on the horizon! Last month the government announced that open air performances could resume, and we can only hope that indoor theatres will soon be able to follow. At the time of going to press, there’s no news of any events scheduled at Dartford’s open air theatre, but do keep an eye on the Dartford Council website and Dartford Living’s social media feeds, in case of any updates in the coming weeks.

In the meantime, while several of the online theatre programmes we’ve been enjoying during lockdown are starting to come to an end, there’s still plenty of great online content to check out.

Southwark Playhouse has four shows online to watch for free, and has promised to keep

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them there until the theatre can reopen.

The BBC’s Culture in Quarantine continues to offer a varied programme of theatre, dance, music and much more via iPlayer and BBC Sounds - visit bbc.co.uk/arts for details. The Old Vic will be streaming Jekyll and Hyde, a new dance thriller devised, directed and choreographed by Olivier Award winner Drew McOnie, for a week from 5th August.

The big theatre event of the last few weeks, without a doubt, is the release on Disney+ of the smash hit musical Hamilton. The original Broadway production of this incredible show is a must-watch for anyone who loves musicals, or hip hop, or American history, or well, just anyone really. Because it’s on Disney it’s not free, but a subscription only costs £6 a month, Leicester Curve are offering three which is a bargain and much (much) productions to watch for free through cheaper than paying to see the show The Show Must Go Online, and the Barn in live. (More leg room, too.)

Cirencester have shared their production of Henry V - Live! on YouTube. So if nothing else, lockdown is a great opportunity to Watching at home may not be quite check out some of the UK’s other fantastic the same, but for now it’s all we regional theatres. Finally, if you enjoy a have. So let’s make the most of good musical, there’s lots of great free it, and hopefully there’ll be some content available on YouTube from the live performances to look forward recent Virtual West End Live event. Usually to very soon. this two-day festival celebrating the best of the West End takes place in Trafalgar Square every June, but this year it was recorded and put online - and it’s well worth a browse…

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Rock Painting in Dartford.

DARTFORD PAINTED ROCKS 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.

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Here are some of the photos of their latest painted rocks.

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46

CA R NEWS

CAR NEWS AUGUST 2020

By Dhiren Ganesh

IN THIS MONTH’S ARTICLE WE LOOK AT NEW VERSIONS WHICH ARE ALL OF THE ELECTRIC SUV VARIETY, A GROWING TREND AMONGST THE MANUACTURERS.

2021 Audi Q4 Sportback e-tron – this from Audi is the Q4 Sportback e-tron, a new niche with the compact electric coupé SUV. Fron the E-tron Sportback this is downsized, zero-emission motoring and coupé SUVs which are all independently popular right now. On the front it will have a closed front grille with a black surround that flows out into slim lights and air intakes. The 82kWh battery pack, which is beneath the floor, can be charged from 10-80% in around 35 minutes using a 125kW public rapid charger or 0-100% in 12 hours 15 minutes via a 7.4 kW home wall box. Plus, there’s an electric motor on each axle to deliver four-wheel drive, a combined 302bhp and 0-62mph in 6.3sec. The range on a full charge is estimated

at 280 miles. The dashboard is dominated by a 12.3in infotainment touchscreen, which is angled towards the with also a large head-up display for directional arrows. The model is due to be on sale in Summer of 2021 and at an estimated price of £50,000.

2021 Nissan Ariya electric SUV – the Nissan Ariya is a high-tech electric SUV with a 310-mile range and futuristic looks. The Ariya is a fully electric large SUV with slim LED lights and a Nissan badge which lights up to welcome you to the car. Its power comes from two electric motors, the entry-level two-wheel drive 63kWh model can take you 223 miles and higher spec 87kWh version with range increased to 310 miles.

At the top of the range sits the Ariya e-4orce 87kWh Performance, which offers up 389bhp and a range of 248 miles. Inside the car there is very few buttons on the centre console or dashboard.

Instead, there are touch-sensitive areas for the climate controls along the dashboard, and these vibrate slightly when you press them. Two

12.3in screens provide virtual instruments and infotainment respectively, and the driver can customise the information shown on either.

The model is due to be on sale in Spring of 2021 and at an estimated price of £40,000.

2021 BMW iX3 electric SUV – this is the new BMW iX3 SUV represents a U-turn for the brand when it comes to launching electric cars, as it introduced an i3 electric hatchback in 2013 and this is the electric version of the X3. On a single charge the iX3 can travel further than either of its closest rivals with an official range of 285 miles. On the inside, a 12.3in digital instrument cluster and 10.25in infotainment screen are standard, with the latter being accessed via a control dial between the front seats, rather than by touch only. Unique touches include electronic sounds to give the iX3 more character when you’re driving along, particularly when braking or accelerating. Prices for the iX3 are likely to start at around £60,000, representing a substantial premium over the combustionengined X3 and likely to be on sale from the summer of 2021.

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WHERE TO GO LOCALLY PARENT AND TODDLER GROUPS - TERM TIME ONLY WHE R E TO GO LOCALLY

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

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

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

9.30am-11.30am Sticky Fingers - £1.50 per adult includes tea ,biscuits and healthy snack time for the children For pre school children up to 4 years St Mary Greenhithe Church Hall London Road Greenhithe Contact 01322 382031 or see www.stmarygreenhithe. com 9:30-10:30am at Fleetdown Utd FC (near Dunelm). £5 per session if you sign up for the term, siblings go free.Contact 07770860450 or Facebook.com/musicandrhymetime WEDNESDAYS 10am -12pm - Little Angels Net Church, (Formerly Gala Bingo Hall) Dartford, £2.50 per family including all snacks and drinks.

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

9.30am-11am Toerags Toddler Group - Adult education centre, Dartford £3 per Child - £1 Non Walkers - facebook.com/ToeRags 1pm-2.30pm Toerags Toddler Group - Adult education centre, Dartford £3 per Child - £1 Non Walkers - facebook.com/ToeRags 10:30-11:30am, at Fleetdown Utd FC (near Dunelm). £5 per session if you sign up for the term, siblings go free.Contact 07770860450 or Facebook.com/musicandrhymetime FRIDAYS 9.30am-11am Baby and me for expectant mothers and mothers / carers of chidren up to 2. £1 per adult St Mary Greenhithe Church Hall, London Road Greenhithe. Contact 01322 382031 or see www.stmarygreenhithe.com 9.30am-11am Toerags Toddler Group - Adult education centre, Dartford £3 per Child - £1 Non Walkers facebook.com/ToeRags 9.30am-11.30am Carer & Toddler Group, St Mary’s Church Hall, Stone Place Rd, Greenhithe. Jeanne 01322 380322 jeannehoadley@ yahoo.co.uk 1-3pm Gigglekidz, Tree Estate Community Centre on Cedar Road - £2 Per Child SATURDAYS 9.30am-11.30am Daddy and Me - A group for dads and male carers of children up to 5years. £1.50 includes healthy snack time for the children. St Mary Greenhithe Church Hall, London Road Greenhithe. Contact 01322 382031 or see www.stmarygreenhithe.com 2-3pm - Lego Club- ages 5 and over - Chrome Road Slade Green DA8 2EL Tel: 01322 333602

Toddler Music & Rhyme Sessions at Dartford Libraries - Monday 10:30am - 11am 2:15pm – 2:45pm Friday Thursday 10:30pm -11:00am Story Time Fleetdown - Tuesday 10:30am -11am Greenhithe - Thursday 2.15pm – 2.45pm - Thursday 10:45am -11:15am Longfield Summerhouse - Tuesday 10:30am – 11am Sutton-at-Hone -Monday. 2pm – 2:30pm Temple Hill - Wednesday 10.30am -11am Dartford

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

Advertise in the magazine for as little as £40 for a month Contact: sales@dartfordliving.com

CHECK WITH THE PROVIDERS TO SEE IF THEY ARE STILL OPEN 48 DURING LOCKDOWN

By B as i a W i lso n

ELLENOR’S TWILIGHT WALK GOES VIRTUAL FOR 2020

By Basia Wilson music and entertainment to share with all the family.

David Braddon, Esquire Developments says: “ellenor is a familiar name locally and has a special place in many people’s hearts especially for those who have seen firsthand the incredible care they provide to loved ones. The charity provides hospice care and support to people of all ages – babies, children, adults – and families facing lifelimiting or terminal illness and the Virtual Twilight Walk is a chance to make a difference – to raise much needed funds for ellenor so they can continue to support families through every stage of their journey. We are delighted to be supporting the Virtual Twilight Walk again in 2020”.

Wearing any and all of your orange clothing, we want you to take on your own Twilight challenge for us – from 8km to 12km walk a route of your own design - and support us by raising much needed funds so ellenor can continue to provide vital end of life care to our patients and their families.

With change comes opportunity – and now, here’s your chance to experience the ellenor Twilight Walk Kate Barnes ellenor’s Interim Head of Fundraising says: like never before!

“Many families across Kent have experienced the vital support that ellenor offers in all sorts of circumstances ellenor’s eleventh Twilight Walk is going virtual this – including the current pandemic - and to both children year. The virtual walk replaces the event planned to and adults living with life-limiting illnesses and their be held in Gravesend’s Cyclopark. Passion, energy families. The Covid-19 crisis has added an entirely and community remain a part of the event and as unprecedented range of fears and challenges to their always, proceeds will help ellenor care for people lives, and a new dimension to the importance of the living with life-limiting conditions and all those care that ellenor offers. It is vital that we raise the funds who support, love and care for them. Participants needed to continue providing hospice care and support are encouraged to share their journeys on social to our patients and their families. media using #TwilightWalk so their fellow Twilight Walkers know how they’re doing.

“While we have to walk apart this year, we will still be able to come together in support of people receiving Your fundraising means we can continue to deliver hospice care in our community. We are hoping to raise our care to people living with life limiting conditions £35,000 through the Virtual Twilight Walk 2020 – our aim in Kent and Bexley. is to continue providing our highly valued services to the local community and I very much hope that those who Sponsored by award winning developer Esquire can will continue to support us during these challenging Developments, the virtual Twilight Walk takes times – support we just couldn’t do without”. place from Saturday 12 September – Friday 18 September and gives people the opportunity to celebrate the memories of loved ones. To proudly and loudly honour those people who played a big Saturday 12 – Friday 18 September: Complete your part in their life as well as celebrating the work of Virtual Twilight Walk the ellenor staff and volunteers, who make a huge Friday 18 September at 7pm: Join ellenor for our Virtual difference to thousands of lives every year. The Twilight Walk online Streaming Event virtual Twilight Walk will conclude with an online Registration: streaming event on Friday 18 September with £15: Adults & £10: Under 16

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WHERE TO GO LOCALLY -

FOR WHEN THINGS RETURN TO NORMAL c h e c k w i t h t h e p ro v i d e r s to s e e i f t h e y a r e st i l l o p e n d u r i n g lo c k d o w n

CARE & SUPPORT

stroke survivors for stroke survivors. It provides excise classes, art sessions, outings, events and meetings. It meets at the YMCA, Dartford, DA1 1UP at 11.00 am on Tuesdays. Please contact Theo Hodges at Theo.

Hodges@stroke.org.uk or 0743 7100 404, for more details

charity. If you are missing the contact with other business men since you retired, why not come and join us on the last Thursday of every month.

For more details contact Phil Burt on 01322 274541 or look at our website www.waprobus.com

THE NORTH WEST KENT BRANCH OF THE MOTOR NEURONE DISEASE ASSOCIATION meets on various date at Birchwood Country Club For more information contact Alexon 01322 228169.

THE WELLBEING LINK The Wellbeing Link meets on Friday mornings from 10-1pm in the St. Anselm’s Parish Centre, 89 West Hill, Dartford A friendly and informative group - call Julie On 07775875585

THE NATIONAL WOMEN’S REGISTER The National Women’s Register (NWR) is a national organisation that meets in the Dartford area. The NWR is a discussion group for ‘lively minded women’. Contact can be made via www.nwr.org.uk or call 01603406767 and ask about the Dartford group.

DARTFORD OSTOMY GROUP SUPPORT (DOGS) meet every third Wednesday in the month at St Anselm’s Parish Centre, West Hill, Dartford DA1 2HJ from 1.00 pm to 3.00 pm. It is for anyone who has an Ileostomy, Colostomy, Urostomy, IBS and pouch, their carers, family and friends.

SOCIAL GROUPS

ALL DIRECTIONS is a community learning organisation for adults and young people aged 16+ with physical, learning and mental health difficulties. For more information, attend a taster session or visit our community lunch club, contact Caroline on 01322 440482 or 07570 347612

JUST FOR GROWN UPS GROUP We are a small friendly group who meet at the Meeting Place in the Orchards Shopping Centre on the first Tuesday of the month. Join us any time between 11am and 1pm for a social chat, coffee and biscuits or a fun quiz. For more information contact mikeansell.dt@hotmail.co.uk

THE STROKE ASSOCIATION has 2 groups for stroke survivors with Communication difficulties; one in Dartford and one in Gravesend. Please contact Michele at Dartford@stroke. org.uk or on 01622 3251 962.

WILMINGTON AND AXSTANE PROBUS CLUB We are a group of retired men who meet monthly for a lunch and a speaker at the Swanley Bowls Centre.

We also have a monthly walk and occasional coffee mornings and as a side line we raise money for a local

HEALTHCARE RETIREMENT GROUP Dartford & Gravesham Branch.

Meets the first Wednesday of every month at the Masonic Hall, West Hill, Dartford from 10-12pm.Activities include guest speakers, outings, lunches, holidays and quizzes. For more information contact Marion on 01322 402967

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

Our club is open to anyone over 55 AGE UK, CRAYFORD LIBRARY POP IN 20S 30S DARTFORD BEXLEYHEATH wherever you live and costs just 60p PARLOUR COFFEE MORNING every SURROUNDING AREAS SOCIAL GROUP to come along and join in. So why not Friday morning 10.30 - 12.30 Tea, more information visit: come and join our friendly welcoming Coffee, Biscuits and a chat - Just £1 www.meetup.com/20s-30s-Dartford- social club? For further information Bexleyheath-surrounding-areasplease call either John Letchford on BEXLEY AND DARTFORD BRANCH social-group/ 01322 270732 or Pam Carr on 01322 PARKINSONS UK 222195.

For people with Parkinsons and their DARTFORD U3A (UNIVERSITY OF JOYDENS WOOD WOMEN’S INSTITUTE carers.

THE THIRD AGE) meet on the third Tuesday of every Dartford: 2nd Wednesday of each meets on the first Tuesday of every month, with meetings beginning at month, Mick Jagger Centre, 7.30month (except August) at St Anselm’s 7.45pm. We meet at the Community 9.30pm. Information support workers Church Hall, West Hill, Dartford at Centre, Birchwood Drive, Wilmington, available, guest speakers and quizzes. 2pm, For information about meetings DA2 7NE. More information can be Contact Wendy Leach. Tel: and interest groups call 01474-709068 found at joydenswoodresidents.co.uk 02083065973 or visit our website. (under Local Clubs and Societies).

Also, there is a social group, run by

BLUEWATER WRITERS’ GROUP We meet each week on Wednesday evenings 7pm - 9pm at Starbucks’ Coffee Shop , Bluewater Upper Guildhall, opposite Waterstones. No fees to pay, just purchase your drink or food in Starbucks and join us. All genres and writing styles are welcome

50 CHECK WITH THE PROVIDERS TO SEE IF THEY ARE STILL OPEN DURING LOCKDOWN

including adult fiction, young adult/ opportunities that Round Table does. teen, children’s, non-fiction, writing for stage and screen and poetry. See Check out the locally famous club h e c k w i t h t h e p ro v i d e r s to s e e i f t h e y a r e st i l l o p e n d u r i n g lo c k d o w n us oncFacebook “Bluewater Writers’ www.dartfordroundtable.co.uk Group” Facebook search: For further info email Tony at: * Dartford Round Table tonyjan@talktalk.net * Round Table * Dartford Egg Hunt CRAYFORD AND DISTRICT PROBUS You will receive a very warm CLUB welcome. meet on 1st and 3rd Wednesdays at the Falcon Wood Club, 1 Falcon Wood THE ROTARY CLUB OF DARTFORD Avenue, Welling at 10am. Contact We meet at lunchtime at The Royal Tony Maun 0208 306 1075 or Victoria and Bull Hotel on 1st, 2nd email Crayford.Probus@gmail.com. and 3rd Tuesdays. Time 12.45 for 1 pm FAIRFIELD (DARTFORD) WI A warm welcome awaits you on the 2nd Tuesday of For further details phone: 07706 every month at Dartford Girls Grammar 103706 School, Shepherds Lane, DA1 2NT at 7.30pm. For more information please THE RENDEZVOUS CLUB (50+) contact Judith on 01322 278703 or Every Monday Time: 8pm - 10pm email FairfieldDartford@wkfwi.org.uk Location: Close to Bexleyheath Town Centre CRAYFORD WOMEN’S INSTITUTE 1st Description: We are a (non-profit Thursday of every month at 1.30pm. making) friendly social group open to Baker Trust Hall. Maxim Road, anyone over fifty.

Crayford (near Sainsburys). Contact We enjoy socialising, making new Secretary, Linda Lewis 01322 557229 friends and activities including Quizzes, Meals Out, Trips to the DARTFORD LADIES PROBUS CLUB Theatre, Cinema, Coach Trips, Gentle A group of retired ladies meet locally Walks and Short Breaks Away. for lunch on the 4th Wednesday of Admission: Subs £2.50 per week. each month,. They raise funds for Annual membership £6 charity and usually invite a speaker. If you would like to join us or Join them and enjoy meeting and require further information please making new friends. If you would like telephone: more information please contact Iris Tel: 01322 287356 or 020 8304 6414 (Secretary) on 01474 703448 TALK TIME MALE? AGED 18 - 45?

TUESDAY 2.00 - 3.00PM (TERM TIME Round Table is for the guys ONLY) with Ladies Circle for the Ladies Fleetdown Library (ladiescircle.co.uk) Everybody welcome, join us for a Dartford RT meets every 2nd and 4th friendly chat Thursday. and light refreshments.

Often called the original young man’s social club, Round Table has over 400 clubs in the UK and is in 50+ countries worldwide. We have an emphasis on having a lot of FUN. We guarantee that involvement with Round Table will enhance your social life, your personal abilities, your network and best of all it is not expensive.

For your chance to become involved in something very special, you need to experience it because no other organisation offers you the

HAVEN (LGBT) SOCIAL GROUP. London / Kent area. Every Friday - a safe Place to Meet.

For more information please contact 01322 287356 or 07503 306467 or email - havenx35@gmail.com WILMINGTON WOMEN’S INSTITUTE is a friendly group who meet on the 2nd Wednesday of every month at 7.30pm in the Memorial Hall, High Road, Wilmington. For more information on our activities please call Ann Hambridge on 01322 228082

DARTFORD ACTIVE RETIREMENT GROUP [DARTARA] We are a group that meets on second Thursday once a month 2 - 4pm at Fleetdown community centre. At the meeting we have a guest entertainer or speaker, we also organise holidays and day trips out as well as activities including theatre trips, curling, short mat bowls, 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 THE ASSOCIATION OF BEXLEY CHARITIES ’78 will hold its Grand Autumn Fair at the United Reformed Church, Geddes Place, Bexleyheath DA6 7DJ (near the Broadway Shopping Centre) on Saturday 26th October 2019 from 9.45 am - 1.00 pm.

There will be a variety of charity stalls selling Christmas Gifts and Cards; CDs and DVDs; Collectables; Jewellery; Chutneys, Jams, Cakes; Books; Children’s Toys and Games; Model Railway accessories.

REFRESHMENTS WILL BE AVAILABLE ENTRANCE 50P (ACCOMPANIED CHILDREN FREE) WHEELCHAIR ACCESS

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WHERE TO GO LOCALLY -

FOR WHEN THINGS RETURN TO NORMAL c h e c k w i t h t h e p ro v i d e r s to s e e i f t h e y a r e st i l l o p e n d u r i n g lo c k d o w n

CLUBS AND SOCIETIES TONI MOUNT HISTORY CLASSES The group meet every week at Towncentric in Gravesend and this year we are looking at Everyday Life in Medieval London. We meet every Thursday from 10.30-12.30 at £6.00 per week customers can phone me on 01474 355676 for more information or look at my website www.tonimount. co.uk DSTC ALUMNI Hi all, if you went to DSTC, DTC, Dartford West Girls or any other name that the school has been known as we would love to hear from you! The school is looking to make links with former students to help raise the profile of the school but also as a way of getting back in touch with people.

There will be an event later on in the academic year and we are planning some exciting things for the group so get joining and let’s get reminiscing!! www.facebook.com/groups/ DSTCAlumni

SCRAPPY DAYS! A SCRAPBOOKING GROUP is being held at Hawley Pavilion, Hawley Road, Dartford, DA2 7RB on the 2nd Sunday of the month between 2pm and 6:30pm. It costs £6 which includes refreshments, nibbles and the use of a cricut (cutting machine for those that don’t know). Beginners are very welcome. Contact Michelle on 07910 488428 or email scrappydays@ hotmail.co.uk

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 levels to play Duplicate Bridge -cost £2 per session.

Enquiries: contact John Davies on 01474 832221 or e-mail carolandjohnd@tiscali.co.uk

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

Everyone welcome!

DARTFORD FLORAL CLUB The club meet on the 3rd Friday of the month at Hawley Pavilion, Hawley Rd.(opp Papermakers Arms) at 7.30 Come along for an evening of beautiful flowers, fun and friendship. Entrance £6.00, refreshments and a raffle with the chance to take home a beautiful floral arrangement. Contact Carol 01322 220802

DARTFORD BELLRINGERS Holy Trinity Church, High Street, Wednesdays 8.00-9.30p.m. Free tuition with a very friendly, sociable group.

The ideal way to make new friends.

Contact deryck.w.jones@gmail.com, phone 01322 586937

DARTFORD BOOKS AND CULTURE CLUB meets once a month on Saturday mornings at Dartford Library. For more information, find us at www.meetup. com/West-Kent-Book-Club/

NORTH WEST KENT FAMILY HISTORY SOCIETY THE MANOR HALL VARIETY GROUP The Dartford Branch meet the 1st We meet every Tuesday at 8.00 in Saturday of each month from 10amthe Community hall (opp St Paulinus 12:30pm at the Dartford Science and church) Crayford. We are looking for anyone who could help us with sound, Technology College, Heath Lane, For lights, scenery or singing/acting on the more information see www.nwkfhs. org.uk or ring Janet 01322384836 stage - everyone welcome. Email me (Carolyn) for more details at ERITH MODEL RAILWAY SOCIETY has c_sawyers@hotmail.com. been in existence for over 50 years and has well over 50 active members.

CRAYFORD TOWN ARCHIVE As the club continues to grow new incorporating Barnehurst and Slade members are always welcome.

Green. Meet every Monday (except the third Monday) of the month at The club meets on Wednesday Crayford Library hall - 2pm-4pm. Call evenings from around 7.00pm until in for a chat about old Crayford and around 9.30pm at our new clubrooms to view the large collection of local in Invicta House (aka Belvedere images, or bring your own for us to Workingmen’s Club), 66 Gilbert Road, copy.

Belvedere DA17 5DA.

THE DARTFORD CHESS CLUB The club meets every Thursday evening from 7.30pm at St Anselms Parish Hall, West Hill and was founded 100 years ago in 1914. All queries to Mike Wiltshire at 01322 272152 or visit www.dartfordchessclub.co.uk COLUMBINE CHINA PAINTERS CLUB This small friendly club meets each month on the 1st and 3rd Thursday afternoon in Sutton-at-Hone Village Hall. From 1.30pm to 4.30pm. Price is £3.00 to include Tea & biscuits.

Occasionally we meet on a Saturday when we have a tutor with us, from 10am until 4pm Contact - Maureen Beckham 01322 287214. Marie Blake 01474 704581.

Doreen Goddard 01474 707357.

52 WITH THE PROVIDERS TO SEE IF THEY ARE STILL OPEN DURING LOCKDOWN CHECK

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

If so, email your suggestions to editor@dartfordliving.com c h e c k w i t h t h e p ro v i d e r s to s e e i f t h e y a r e st i l l o p e n d u r i n g lo c k d o w n

WEST HILL MORRIS Come and join your local Morris side, dancing and performing in Dartford, Gravesend and Bexley areas and throughout Kent in the Summer. We are a mixed and very sociable side, and can always find room for new dancers and musicians. It’s a great way of keeping fit and you’ll be helping to conserve a great English tradition. We practice alternate Tuesday evenings at Bexley, from September to April, then dancing out at pubs, clubs and fetes, throughout Kent, from May to August. Private Bookings taken. Contact Alison on 01322 862298, e-mail alisondukes@btinternet.com STIMUL8 ACTIVITY SERVICE I provide all the equipment, materials and refreshments with just a small all inclusive, pay as you go, fee of £10.00 per person per session.

Those who come have the opportunity to learn painting with watercolours, acrylics, inks and how to draw with pencils, soft pastels, oil pastels, charcoals, watercolour pencils, fabric pens, plus basics of sculpting and have the opportunity to sign up to additional floral workshops I offer too. www.stimul8-activityservice.co.uk EXTRAORDINARY YOUTH GROUP’ - calling all 11-18 year olds who want more than an ordinary life, come hang out with other young people and discover their ultimate purpose. Every Friday in term time, 7pm-9:30pm at Net Church Dartford, near McDonalds and next to Weatherspoons.

For more information email andrew@ thenetchurch.co.uk or call 01322 272649.

SHORNE FLOWER ARRANGERS Our Club presents a programme of workshops and demonstrations in a very informal and friendly atmosphere. We meet on the last Thursday of each month except December. Shorne Village Hall, The Street, Shorne. DA12 3EA. Visitors are always made very welcome, entry £3. We have 30 members and look forward to welcoming anyone who loves flowers. The Club provides an opportunity for people to be creative, make friends.

For further information please phone Angela Hurd Telephone: 01322 407556 SWANLEY HISTORY GROUP Meets 1st Tuesday of every month.

Presentations on local social history.

Venue Alexandra Suite St Mary’s Road Swanley BR8 7BU. Doors open 7.15 for 7.30 p.m. Members £1 Visitors £2. Everyone welcome. Email swanleyhistorygroup@ hotmail.co.uk for more details or visit our website https://swanleyhistorygroup. weebly.com or Facebook page. Annual membership £5 includes a monthly newsletter.

new topics, new skills and new ways for girls to broaden their horizons.

NORTH KENT EMBROIDERERS’ GROUP Meets on the third Saturday of every month (except August) from 2pm - 4pm in the The Community Room, Asda Gravesend Superstore, Thames Way, Gravesend DA11 0DQ. The programme of activities is varied with workshops, talks and sit and stitch sessions. Visitors are very welcome. More information can be found on our website www. northkentembroiderers.co.uk or phone 01474324734.

www.girlguiding.org.uk/interested

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

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

DARTFORD HISTORICAL AND ANTIQUARIAN SOCIETY www.historicaldartford.org.uk OUR TALKS IN 2020 CONTINUE WITH THE FOLLOWING: THE LOCKDOWN FOR COVID-19 CANCELLED THE REMAINDER OF THE 2019-2020 PROGRAMME. WE ARE HOPING TO RESTART WITH THE 2020-2021 IN OCTOBER. WE LOOK FORWARD TO WELCOMING YOU THEN.

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.

We meet every third Thursday of each month, between 19:30 & 21:30 at the following local hall: Pheonix Place Community Hall Pheonix Place, Dartford, DA1 2XG If you have any questions, please contact our Club Secretary Tony Pringle who will be only too happy to help.

Please use the following options: Email: tp.1971@outlook.com 07738 698284

Tel:

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

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WHERE TO GO LOCALLY -

FOR WHEN THINGS RETURN TO NORMAL

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HAWLEY AND SUTTON AT HONE Swanscombe Leisure Centre.

ACTIVE RETIREMENT ASSOCIATION Call Saj on 07903 513104 (HASARA) We meet on the 2nd Thursday in the scout hut Sutton at Hone at 2pm.

Other social activities include pub lunches, art and craft, short mat bowls, petanque, walks, coach outings, etc.

We are a friendly and young at heart club. Do join us. Ring Jim on 01322 221736 or Carol on 07912564710 or just turn up.

ORCHARDS JUNIOR SCALE MODEL CLUB. We welcome everyone from age 8 and upwards. We meet on a Tuesday evening from 6pm onwards in The Meeting Place in the Orchards Shopping Centre.

We deal with all sorts of scale models from Airfix and similar, Warhammer, model railways etc. We charge £1 per week per person and any under 16’s need to be accompanied by an adult.

We have a small number of kits available to purchase at a reasonable rate. https://www.facebook.com/OrchardsJuniorScaleModelClub/

SPORTS GROUPS AND CLUBS WHEELCHAIR EPEE FENCING Wheelchair epee fencing in Dartford and Gravesham, we are delighted to announce that New Ash Green Epee club, can now introduce wheelchair fencing. If interested in taking up this para sport please contact us on 01474 871484 or alternatively look at our website www.nagfencing.eu ERITH YOUTH RUGBY Sunday 10:45-12:00, Sussex Road Erith. Ages 4-16 welcome 07903 590515 LITTLE TIGERS - KARATE FOR 3, 4 & 5 YEAR OLDS Sundays 54 10:15-10:45 at

KENT EXILES AMERICAN FOOTBALL CLUB www.kentexiles.co.uk.

DARTFORD GYMNASTICS Coach Martin - 07944 730634. is the only British Gymnastics Club All ages from 7 years to adult welcome in Dartford to hold the”GymMark” Award for 6 years.

ENERGY FITNESS AND NUTRITION Based in Heath Lane, we are a I run group fitness classes as friendly club well as 1-1 and semi private with super equipment, great personal training sessions in coaches and high standards. We do lots of competitions and we do Darenth at Dimples Day Nursery DA2 7HT. ENERGY Fitness & not close through the holidays!

Nutrition: we offer a wide variety Visit our website www.dartof group classes such as strength fordgymnastics.co.uk for full & conditioning, boot camps, details or contact Linda on 01322 Boxercise, mum and baby classes, 409312 or email dartfordgyminside and outside classes with club@yahoo.co.uk great equipment and suitable for all abilities.

LEARN KARATE The website is Learn karate with Yamato www.energyfitnut.co.uk Damashii – for adults & children Every Wednesday evening at the HARTLEY SWIMCLUB AT WHITE Leigh Academy & every Saturday OAK POOL, SWANLEY morning at Becket Sport Centre, We are a friendly group of adults first lesson free. who meet for a social swim every For more info, visit www.ydma.

Thursday at 9pm. We’re looking club or find us on Facebook, for new members. Why not give search for Yamato Damashii us a try?

Martial Arts.

Contact Diane on 01689 871846 or join us one Thursday.

Yoga with Emma “YOGA WITH EMMA DARTFORD JU JITSU CLUB Europa Gymnastics Centre: Mondays 7-8pm for 7-16s at - Wednesdays: Hatha Yoga – the Dartford Girls Grammar, 9.30am to 10.30am Shepherds Lane Dartford DA1 2NT - Fridays: Hatha Yoga – 9.30am to in the Dance Studio.

10.30am We have an adult class 8-10pm too.

- Fridays: Yin Yoga – 10.45am to 11.45am We’ve been running for 20 years, building confidence, teaching Becket Sports Centre: self-defence, hardening the target, - Fridays: Hatha Yoga – 7.00pm to developing skills and always 8.00pm welcome new members.

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

DARTFORD ORIENTEERING CLUB For more details see www.dfok. co.uk HOP LIKE IT’S HOT A fun (different) circuit based

workout with space hoppers that Seeds is a long-established cycling challenges core stabilty, balance and Club in Dartford and we share strength. It is suitable for all levels our headquarters at Hesketh with and abilities. c h e c k w i tClasses h t h e p ro vare i d e rheld s to s eevery e i f t h e y a rDartford e st i l l o p e nCricket d u r i n g Club. lo c k d oWe w ncater for Wednesday evening at the stone most abilities and have a social ride pavilion starting at 8:15 until 9:00 most Saturday mornings. For info on costing £5 per person. joining us please visit our website www.seedscycling.co.uk THE HIGHLY STRUNG BADMINTON CLUB, DARTFORD AND WHITE OAK Friendly club seeking new members. TRIATHLON CLUB Abilities mixed.

We are the local British Triathlon Would suit players with some prior Federation Club covering Bexley, experience.

Dartford and Swanley. We offer coached swimming sessions 3 Thursdays at 7.45-9.45pm, Dartford times per week at White oak pool Girls’ Grammar School, DA1 2NT in Swanley and Fairfield pool in For further information please email: Dartford. Our members compete in many local Triathlons plus many highlystrungbc@gmail.com members are training towards Iron Man distance. We also have our own Triathlon in June every year which has been running since 1989. If you are interested in joining us then WAR GAMES AND MODEL CLUB please visit our website Based in Erith we have a wide number of members from across SE http://www.dartfordandwhiteoaktri. co.uk London and Kent. A great place to come and have a game, make, paint and hobby! Or, if you prefer, come DARTFORD ROAD RUNNERS grab a cup of tea and chat about all Dartford Road Runners are based things hobby and some things not! at Princes Park Stadium and are For more info visit - https://emperone of the biggest road running ors10th.wixsite.com/home clubs in Kent. We currently have about 200 members of all abilities including a beginners group. DRR DARTFORD PARKRUN Dartford parkrun is a free to enter 5k teams compete in the Kent League, run every Saturday morning starting the Assembly League and the Kent Fitness League. To see what we offer by the Dartford harriers track in Central Park at 9am. All participants and how to join us please visit our website – anyone is welcome to join get a time a position emailed and us with all abilities. texted after the event. To register http://dartfordroadrunners.co.uk/ go to node/440 www.parkrun.org.uk. Remember to bring your printed Barcode.

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

Dartford Harriers is among the leading athletics clubs in Kent, with a history stretching back to the 1920′s, DARTFORD HEATH PARKRUN making it one of the oldest clubs in Dartford’s 2nd parkrun event is now the country. If you are interested in live. The run starts behind the Heath seeing how we can help you advance Lane car park and is a free 5k run your Athletics then please visit our every Saturday morning at 9am. website Parking is restricted in the area so http://www.dartfordharriersac.co.uk please do not park in Heathclose Road and wherever possible please CENTRAL PARK ATHLETICS CLUB walk.

We are situated in Dartford’s outstanding Central Park and can FOOTSCRAY MEADOW PARKRUN provide access to a state of the A new Parkrun event with parking at art running track (re-laid in 2015) Crazy Barn and the full range of track and field facilities for just £4.50 per session (we offer discounted annual SEEDS CYCLING CLUB DARTFORD memberships). Refreshments and

changing facilities are also available.

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

This is a tough but very popular way to increase your stamina and running technique, and you’ll be in the company of qualified coaches and some of the friendliest runners around. For more information please visit our website centralparkathletics.co.uk 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 coaching within a club environment – come and be part of the team Free first session with this advert SO LET’S GO RUNNING (SLGR) SLGR is a local running club with structured training sessions designed to improve runners speed and stamina.

There are currently four runs available with more starting soon; see below for more details.

The Run leaders for each group are as follows; Dartford Cricket Club, Dartford Dawn & Brian Cyclopark, Gravesend - Dawn & Brian New runners are always welcome, and you can contact Brian if you would like more information; see contact details and e-mail link on Our Group page.

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

THE ASHES BADMINTON CLUB Mondays, Dartford Technology College, Heath Lane. 8-9.30. Jacqui 07764 182854.

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ADVERTISERS INDEX DIRECTORY OF LOCAL BUSINESSES ADVERTISING IN DARTFORD LIVING

ACCOUNTANTS, FINANCE & LEGAL Downton Ali Associates.........................................60 Martin Ives & Co.......................................................9 Urban Sticks...........................................................13 BUILDERS, DECORATORS, ROOFING, BATHROOMS, HEATING, KITCHENS, WINDOWS & DOORS A Baynes.................................................................38 Claremont Decorative Services.............................36 Home & Garden......................................................31 Steve Cook - Double Glazing..................................22 The Double Glazing Repair Man..............................4 Westgate Dartford..................................................34 CAR CARE ChipsAway..............................................................10 CHILDREN Bip Bop Shop.........................................................26 CLEANING APC Cleaning.........................................................10 Streamline Pressure Washing...............................22 COUNCIL Dartford Borough Council ......................................5 ESTATE/ LETTING AGENTS Fox Estates ............................................................11 Wisdom Estates......................................................23 FARM SHOP 56

H&M Foods.............................................................38 FLORIST Dartford Florist......................................................19 FOOD AND DRINK Kemsing Gin..........................................................33 GARAGES & VEHICLE SERVICES Orchard Garage......................................................60 Shenley Road Garage............................................26 GARDENING Bow Arrow Gardening............................................38 HEALTH Home Instead...........................................................4 Release and Liberate.............................................12 JEWELLERY Bradleys..................................................................23 NURSERY Holy Trinity Church Pre School.............................46 MUSIC/DANCE & FITNESS Crest Yoga..............................................................35 On Pointe Pilates....................................................19 Simple Fitness........................................................14 OPTICIANS Linklater Opticians.................................................43 PHOTOGRAPHER

Red Photography....................................................12 PICTURE c h e c k FRAMING w i t h t h e p ro v i d e r s to s e e i f t h e y a r e st i l l o p e n d u r i n g lo c k d o w n Craft Frames............................................................38 PRINTERS Darenth Print..........................................................15 RESTAURANT/ TEA ROOMS/CAFE EFES.........................................................................7 The Churchyard......................................................43 SCHOOL/ COLLEGE Oakfield/ Temple Hill Nursery...............................12 The Leigh UTC........................................................18 WILL WRITING SMN Will Writing .................................................21 WEBSITE DESIGN/ MARKETING Dartford Living Design.............................................2 Dartford Living Marketing......................................21

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We want to work with you to promote your businesses as much as we can using our website and social media channels for maximum exposure. We can also provide advertising options solely online on your website and/ or social media channels. We feel we have every base covered.

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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) HEALTH Darent Valley Hospital 01322 428100 Dartford East Health Centre 01322 421480 Boots Chemist Bluewater 01322 624780 (Late Night) ASDA Greenhithe Chemist 01322 374100 (Late Night) The National Pandemic Flu Service 0800 1513 100 West Kent NHS helpline 0800 0 850850 TRAVEL Heathrow Airport Enquires 08700 000123 Gatwick Airport Enquires 08700 002468 National Rail Enquires 08456 484950 Highways England Info Line 0300 123 5000 HELPLINES 24 Hour Kent Dementia Helpline: 0800 500 3014

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Alcoholics Anonymous: 08457 697 555 Citizens Advice Bureau: 01322 472 979 Debt Councilling (CAP) 0800 328 0006 Information About Drugs - FRANK: 0800 776600 Kent Homophobic Incident Reporting Line: 0800 328 9162 Kent Racial Incident Reporting Line: 0800 138 1624 Local Breastfeeding Counsellors Judianne/Paula 01322 224072 National Domestic Violence Helpline (24 hour) 0808 2000 247 NSPCC Child Protection Helpline: 0808 800 5000 RSPCA Kent, North West Branch Helpline 01322 286720 Samaritans: 116 123 LOCAL MP Gareth Johnson 020 7219 7047 LOCAL SPORTS CLUBS Bexley Rugby Club 01322 550142 or www.pitchero.com/clubs/bexleyrfc/ Dartford Ladies Hockey Club Dawn Hall (Secretary) 07793 777250 Dartford Ju Jitsu Club Mondays, Dartford Girls Grammar School, Shepherds Lane. 6.30-8.00 Juniors, 8.00-10.00 Seniors www.

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

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 ParkContact: 01322 299990 www.dartfordfc.com 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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