Dartford Living July 19

FREE July 2019 - Issue 157

By the community, for the community

INSIDE THE MAGAZINE

£500,000 REDEVELOPMENT PROJECT AT ORCHARD THEATRE - Page 6

GARDENING WITH THE WORLD GARDEN - Page 18 CHILDREN’S HOSPICE WEEK 2019- Page 28 Gas Safety Certificate or Boiler service just: -

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VCD Sports Club, Old Road Crayford, DA1 4DN 9:30am, 11:30am, 5:30pm and 7:30pm Sue 07507 599691

St.John The Evangelist Church Parkhill Road Bexley DA5 1HX 5.30pm and 7.30pm Adam 07730 405313

British Legion Hall Devon Road, South Darenth, DA4 9AA 9:30am, 5:30pm and 7:30pm June 07957 902767

WEDNESDAYS VCD Sports Club, Old Road Crayford, DA1 4DN 10:00am, 5:30pm and 7:30pm Liz 07900 213548

Fleetdown Community Centre Swaledale Road, Dartford, Kent, DA2 6JZ 3:30pm, 5:30pm and 7:30pm Paula 07891 424401 Oakfield Primary Academy Oakfield Lane Dartford Kent DA1 2SW 7.30pm Kate 07590 995948 TUESDAYS Greenhithe & Swanscombe British Legion Club London Road, Greenhithe, DA9 9EJ 10:00 am Paula 07891 424401 Glentworth Ex Service Club 154 Lowfield Street, Dartford, Kent, DA1 1JB 5:30pm and 7:30pm Gillian 07957 135737

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Glentworth Ex Service Club 154 Lowfield Street, Dartford, Kent, DA1 1JB 9:30am Gillian 07957 135737 The Howard Venue (formerly South East Dance Studios) 39 Egerton Avenue, Hextable, BR8 7LG 5:30pm and 7:30pm Caroline 07776 181413

Baldwyns Park Baptist Church Dartford Road Bexley 5.30pm & 7.30pm Del: 07975 541082 Temple Hill Community Centre Temple Hill Square, Dartford, DA1 5HY 09:30am Jo 07800 797030 St Anselm’s Parish Centre 89 West Hill, Dartford, Kent, DA1 2HJ 5:00pm and 7:00pm Gillian 07957 135737 Greenhithe & Swanscombe British Legion Club London Road, Greenhithe, DA9 9EJ 5:30pm and 7:30pm Paula 07891 424401 FRIDAYS Lesley Close Bourne Road , Bexley DA5 1LX 9am Del 07975 541082

SATURDAYS Oakfield Primary Academy Oakfield Lane Temple Hill Community Centre Dartford Temple Hill Square, Dartford, Kent DA1 5HY DA1 SW 3.30pm, 5:30pm, 7:30pm 8am and 10am Jo 07800 797030 Sarah 07739 027161 THURSDAYS The Howard Venue (formerly South East Dance Studios) 39 Egerton Avenue, Hextable, BR8 7LG 9:30am Caroline 07776 181413

Christchurch Centre Kingswood Avenue Swanley BR8 8AN 8am and 10am Jayne 07557 979435

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WELCOME TO THE LATEST ISSUE OF

DARTFORD LIVING

BY THE COMMUNITY, FOR THE COMMUNITY Dear Readers,

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

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

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

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

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

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

CONTENTS 6-7 13 18 19 21 24 25 26-27 28 32-33 39 40 42-43 43 43 44 45 48-55 56-57 58

£500,000 Orchard Theatre Redevelopment A year of Free Love Gardening with the World Garden Bip Bop Blog Dartford News Life Under the Stairs Recipe Travel Spotlight Children’s Hospice Weekd Winners Chapel Food Bank The Orchard Theatre Competition Sports News Fitness Dartford Painted Rocks Then and Now Theatre Review Car News Where to Go Locally Advertisers Index Useful Numbers

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13 42 Check out our website for even more local news and articles

www.dartfordliving.com

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£500,000 REDEVELOPMENT PROJECT UNVEILED AT THE ORCHARD THEATRE

by Jamie Leadbeatter, Orchard Theatre

theatre to 1025. The plans will also deliver extra spaces in the auditorium for customers with access requirements.

Brand-new motorized seating will be installed in the flat-floor area enabling the theatre to transition easily between seated and flatfloor events – in turn offering greater flexibility to visiting producers.

The improvements will also allow a wider range of shows and events to be presented to Dartford audiences.

Alongside the seating replacement and seat-plan reconfiguration other significant redevelopments to be undertaken include: • Installation of brand new house and auditorium lighting throughout the venue to improve energy efficiency; • Reconfiguration and enhancement of the in-house sound system to improve audibility and to offer improved infra-red and audio-description facilities; • Upgrades to the building power supply to facilitate state-of-the-art lighting equipment; • Installation of brand-new Robo-Spot follow-spot Orchard Theatre will close for 6 weeks allowing equipment, reducing the need for follow spots to be redevelopment to take place during Summer 2019; located within the auditorium and improving working conditions for operators; • New auditorium seating will be installed on all levels – • New carpets will be installed and cosmetic and increasing capacity and improving sight-lines; decorative enhancements will be completed throughout • Lighting and sound systems will be replaced and the auditorium and foyer spaces. reconfigured using energy-efficient equipment; • Access improvements will create additional spaces HQ Theatres will project-manage the redevelopment. for wheelchair users and access customers; In developing the plans the company has been working • New seating configuration will transition easily from alongside a range of partners and suppliers including seated to flat-floor events; seating-specialists Auditoria Services, technical • Capacity will increase to 1,025 – an increase of 69 infrastructure experts AC Lighting and access consultancy from the current capacity of 956.

Attitude is Everything who have advised on the access requirements.

A major redevelopment of the Orchard Theatre, Dartford will take place this summer, led by venue operator HQ Julian Russell, Chief Executive of HQ Theatres & Hospitality Theatres. The project – initially funded by Dartford said: “We’re thrilled to be unveiling the details of the Borough Council and off-set by future reductions in the redevelopment at The Orchard in partnership with Dartford annual management-fee paid to HQ – will significantly Borough Council. The theatre is already a powerhouse enhance the customer experience; allow the venue to venue in the HQ portfolio – punching above its weight widen the range of shows and events on offer; bring access in terms of the shows on offer, the audiences served arrangements at the theatre up to modern standards and the range of community events programmed. This and improve energy-efficiency. major redevelopment will position The Orchard brilliantly for future success; improving facilities for audiences The £500,000 plan will see the entire auditorium stripped and visiting companies; and protecting the council’s back, with brand-new seats installed in all areas of the cultural asset for many years to come. It’s enormously auditorium. A reconfiguration of the seating layout will encouraging to work alongside a Local Authority with improve sightlines as well as increasing the capacity at the 6

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the vision, foresight and flexibility to rethink existing funding models to deliver facility improvements in this way – and of course to have the opportunity to deliver this redevelopment for the people of Dartford whose venue, ultimately, this is.”

Jeremy Kite, Leader of Dartford Borough Council said: “Investing in the theatre is part of our strategy to support quality services, quality facilities and celebrate a venue in the town that can bring our community together. With so many councils cutting support for theatres it would have been easy for us to do the same, but it would not have been right. We have an unshakeable belief in the value of the arts as part of a strong society. The fact that the theatre is going from strength to strength is testament to the fact that the council has made the right spending decisions in tandem with HQ Theatre’s excellent stewardship. The Orchard is rapidly gaining a reputation for being one of the best theatres outside of Central London .”

Learning programme. The impact of those visits on the local economy is significant – through associated spending on transport, parking, and visits to local bars, restaurants and shops. These improvements will make sure we’re well-placed to continue to offer the widest range of professional shows, community events and creative learning work to our customers for many years to come – and in an environment that is both accessible and excellent in every way.”

Lorna Strawson, Theatre Director at The Orchard Theatre, said: “We can’t wait to see the finished results and to unveil the wide-ranging improvements to our customers and to visiting producers. We know how much our audiences value the theatre. Over the past 12 months we welcomed around a quarter of a million people to a show at The Orchard – with many thousands more engaging with us through our Community and Creative

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A YEAR OF FREE LOVE A Dartford resident with a lifelong passion for horse racing has not only realised his dream of owning a racehorse, but also written a book about the experience.

Tony Linnett’s A Year of Free Love is a thrilling tale which chronicles an eventful twelve-month period from the sales ring to the racecourse. The author set up a partnership with four long-standing friends who hatched a plan to buy an unraced yearling filly at the Newmarket sales in October 2017.

Their subsequent 10,000 guineas purchase was named Free Love and during the 2018 season she raced eleven times finally reaching the winner’s enclosure at the ninth attempt at Catterick in September.

‘It’s been a real roller-coaster ride,’ observed Tony. ‘We were running out of money fast. We went right to our limit when we bought Free Love and had she not won at Catterick she was heading back to the sales at Newmarket a month later.

Winning the race was one of the

Useful

most exhilarating moments of my life and it meant that we could keep the partnership going for a bit longer.’

Free Love has kept up the good work in 2019 winning two more races which has enabled her enthusiastic owners to carry on with their lifelong dream. ‘We’re just five ordinary racing fans who saved up for this project realising that if our little filly didn’t win a race or two, we wouldn’t be able to afford to keep going,’ explained Tony. ‘We’ve been very lucky.’

The author has lived in Dartford with his wife, Jennie, for more than 30 years. Their three children have all gone to local schools and when Tony changed career and decided to teach, his first post was at Oakfield Junior School. His final job was Head Teacher of Hurst Primary School in Bexley.

When he retired in 2017, he was able to devote his time to a racehorse ownership project which subsequently led to his first stab at writing a book.

A Year of Free Love is available through Amazon and the Racing Post online shop.

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Now Aw Winn ard ing!

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Stagecoach Theatre Arts Schools are operated under franchise and are independently owned by their Principals.

Stagecoach is a registered trademark of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Ltd.

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GARDENING WITH THE WORLD GARDEN

by Tom Hart Dyke, curator of The World Garden

July is a joyous month with your garden looking its best with a profusion of summer colour, allowing you a moment to admire all your hard work of the spring before you continue maintaining your favourite annuals, perennials and shrubs. As the heat of the summer arrives keeping everything looking its best can be challenging, so don’t forget two of your most important secret weapons are your secateurs and watering can, let the gardening commence!

This month sees the peak of many blooms, gorgeous summer bedding, delightful Dahlias, colourful Penstemons and the sweet scent of roses. To keep everything looking gorgeous in your garden it is essential you water beds well, ideally a soaking once or twice a week either very early or late evening to ensure the sun’s rays don’t evaporate or scorch your plant beauties. We often wait until July to plant out our summer bedding; Marigolds, Nasturtiums and Cosmos, storing them in our greenhouses just before planting to keep the humidity high and help prevent red spider mite who love the dry climate!

Secateurs at the ready, deadheading is your next garden task and removing spent flowers means you will encourage new growth and extend the flowering period of your beds. Here in the garden we grow a selection of fruit and vegetables, July is the perfect time to pinch out the side shoots on your tomatoes, so your plants will grow up the cane and avoid bushing out! Remember if you are a lover of Paeonies, they often need a good old bamboo staking too, otherwise they’ll bend or break and flop everywhere!

Keeping the garden tidy is a constant job and a great opportunity to remove weeds, tackle pests and diseases and stake any of your plants to ensure your flowerbeds continue to look stunning to welcome visitors for the

rest of the summer season and beyond.

Don’t forget to Save the date for our new Quilt & Craft Festival this month 19th - 21st, as we welcome The Quilters Guild to celebrate the craftsmanship from across Kent, Sussex and Surrey. Visitors will enjoy live demonstrations, over 30 stalls including face painting for the children and a host of stunning quilt and patchwork exhibits created by the talented members. Visit www.lullingstonecastle. co.uk for more details.

Images: Alan Graham

Remember new planting requires extra attention to ensure survival and particularly in very warm weather check the soil moisture by sight and touch for extra peace of mind. Here in The World Garden we put down heavy mulch at the start of the gardening season to prepare the beds, so don’t forget to top it up this month to help retain moisture and give it a good water! July is also the perfect time to feed your plants with an all-purpose plant food, it can be applied during watering and is ideal to encourage further growth.

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BIP BOP BLOG

by Charlotte Wise

Hi Dartford Living Readers,

water (hence our swollen feet most of the time) but drinking Summertime is here! Yet, I think anyone who is pregnant more water and staying hydrated at this time of year will say that pregnancy and summer can prevent this. I carry a BPA just don’t mix! free water bottle with me all the time now.

From swollen feet to lack of sleep to just feeling generally uncomfortable most of the time, I think I can safely say 5) Cold flannel on head and that I’m not reaching for the sun bed wanting to top up feet - Apparently if your head my tan this year. and feet are cool, the rest of your body will cool down too.

I try and do this in the evenings when I’ve got my feet up In fact, I do feel about ten times bigger than what I was as it is hard to do during the day when running around when I was pregnant with my first and although they say after a 3 year old! The cold also helps with swollen feet. I you’re supposed to be bigger second time round, I’m tend to find dipping my feet in Little Man’s paddling pool definitely waddling...still with another 2 months to go! is also a great help during the day too.

I’ve now even noticed I’m getting the ‘sympathy’ look 6) Ice cream and ice lollies are my best friends! Slush from either parents or grandparents who were perhaps Puppies have also been one of my ultimate cravings this once in the same position as me at this time of year! time round but any kind of cold food or drink to keep me hydrated and cool are absolute winners.

The heat does make life extremely uncomfortable when carrying a mini human inside your belly! And not wanting And of course, both me and Little Man won’t be forgetting to sound like a ‘Summer Scrooge’ but I’m happiest when to wear suncream when sitting out in the sun - even if it’s raining! we’re in the shade. I just wish there was a way to apply suncream to a 3 year old without him hating every second!

However, if we are set for a hotter than hot summer this year, I know that I’ve got to stop doing the rain dance and If you have any further tips or advice you would like to just embrace it. So I thought I would share some tips share - please get in touch on socials @BipBopMum. to stay cool and if you’re pregnant like me or even just I’m all ears! extremely uncomfortable in the heat, hopefully this will get you through...

So from bump and me, have a lovely time in the sunshine this summer and I look forward to giving you another 1) Pocket Fan - I now carry one everywhere I go! They’re pregnancy update soon! sold in most pound shops and I keep one not just in my handbag but also in my hospital bag too.

Until next time!

2) Cooling Spray - This is brilliant and I highly recommend Charlotte x it. I got mine from Boots for just £3.99. It’s another great handbag must have. It’s not just great for me but good to cool my son down when he’s been running around outside too.

3) Loose clothing - My summer clothes just don’t fit me properly anymore and with only a few weeks to go, I’m not wasting money on more maternity wear. So I’ve resorted to long stretchy maxi dresses. I get mine online from either Boohoo or ASOS and many start at just £8 a dress!

4) Water, water, water - Us pregnant women love to retain www.dartfordlivinglive.co.uk - www.dartfordliving.com - www.dartfordbusinessdirectory.co.uk

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DARTFORD NEWS The Dartford Business Awards are back

simplified road layout and new public spaces for town centre shoppers and visitors.

There are many inspiring companies trading in Dartford, and the Dartford Business Awards are here to recognise, A key aim of the project is to eliminate congestion caused by reward and celebrate their achievements in the local business queuing to enter the ‘Iceland’ short stay car park in Market community.

Street. The existing car park will be closed and replaced by a larger car park nearby in the grounds of Acacia Hall behind Brought to you by Dartford Borough Council together with Dartford Library. Once opened, the new car park will offer several core partners, sponsors and local ambassadors for direct access for vehicles through the existing Overy Liberty the Dartford area, there are a number of different awards entrance and new pedestrian gates will lead straight on to categories; all free to enter and designed to cater for every size Brewery Square. of business, from the smallest to the largest in the borough.

The start of work also means changes for some LondonEntrants and winners can expect to receive a number of bound bus passengers as Transport for London (TfL) bus business-building benefits, such as promotion through stops are relocated from Market Street to Home Gardens media and networking opportunities. as part of the project. The move will create a single TfL Matthew McLarty, Innovation Director, Oxford Innovation, boarding point for both eastbound and westbound services said, “We are proud to be part of the Dartford community close to The Orchard Theatre. where we manage The Nucleus Business & Innovation Centre, a vibrant hub for small and medium-sized businesses in Local services provided by Arriva and Go-Coach will remain the area. We are seeing a growing number of creative, high largely unaltered although buses will now stop around the quality, high-impact small businesses in the community and corner in Lowfield Street rather than in the new Brewery the awards provide a great way to shout about them. We are Square. Existing stops for local services at Holy Trinity happy to be a sponsor.”

Church are unaltered.

Commenting on last year’s business awards, Andy Davies, Founder & CEO of The Hug Group Ltd, said, “Having been The existing bus stops in Market Street will close on 1st July. involved in the education sector for many years, I know first-hand the transformative potential of the Dartford The work has been timed to take place alongside the Business Awards. It’s great that the awards allow big and redevelopment of Lowfield Street and is scheduled to finish small businesses to participate and since winning in 2018, by Summer 2020. our business has gone from strength to strength.”

To enter your business into the Dartford Business Awards, Market Street will remain open throughout the construction you must be based in the Dartford Borough Council business period although a number of temporary weekend closures rates areas, and must have been trading for a full year to are anticipated when contractors have no practical or safe January 1st, 2019. alternative. These closures will be clearly advertised. Access to Central Park, the Library, the museum and memorial To register your interest now, visit www.dartfordbusinessawards. gardens will be unaffected and all town centre and park com, or contact businessawards@dartford.gov.uk to find out events will proceed as normal. more. Additionally, you can like the Awards on Facebook at www.facebook.com/dartfordbusinessawards or follow on Council Leader Jeremy Kite said, “I’m afraid that any change Twitter at www.twitter.com/Dartford_Biz. to road layouts will mean some inconvenience during construction but Dartford must take action to tackle some WORK STARTS ON DARTFORD’S NEW BREWERY SQUARE of the congestion and air-quality issues we have in the town Major project aims to tackle town centre congestion, centre. It’s the ideal time to do it because it coincides with improve air quality and create better public space work on Lowfield Street and means we can minimise the time the town faces disruption.

Work on a major scheme to reduce congestion and create a new public space in the heart of Dartford kicks off on By next Summer, the town will have a much cleaner, safer Monday 1st July. and simplified road layout as well as a much more attractive public space at the heart of the town. Attention will then turn Brewery Square, a name chosen to celebrate a historic to improving the High Street and the creation of a traditional connection with the town’s brewing industry, aims to market-town environment for shoppers, diners and visitors.” improve traffic flows in Market Street, raise local air quality and provide new parking for shoppers as well as better links between Central Park and the High Street.

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

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23

LIFE UNDER THE STAIRS

by Local Resident, Jane Stevenson SUPPORTING THE YOUNGER COMMUNITY and diverse background so they can explore and grow their There are some things in this world that are guaranteed to talents. We should work with businesses and community put me in a snarky mood from the start; animal cruelty, Brexit, groups to provide such experiences. traffic delays and bad coffee to name but a few!

HEATH WATCH So, on a sliding scale, school holidays figure rather low. My If we ever get a summer, if it ever stops raining, if it does days of working to accommodate the needs of my school get warmer, you can be sure Dartford Heath will see a raft age children are long past. I waved farewell to holiday prices of visitors making the trek to enjoy the peace and quiet. jacked up for profit, oversubscribed clubs and the general Whether it is for a leisurely walk, the thrill of the glory bumps, lack of activities many years ago. However, I find myself or just to give the dog a run, the summer months encourage filled with some trepidation at the approaching six weeks or all to get outdoors more. so summer break, when the young in our community have endless hours to fill before they return to school in September. My plea is that everyone is careful. Hot summer weather dries the vegetation quickly. A discarded cigarette or match or, The lucky few may go away for a break, while the many even worse, the wilful setting of a fire causes untold misery whose parents cannot afford such luxuries will often be left to wildlife, flora and fauna as well as spoiling the area for to their own devices. There is little for them to do apart from others. It is an unnecessary drain on the first responders, hanging around Bluewater, the streets or parks. There are and most importantly it is a danger to other people. Taking only so many films to see or shops to visit. Dartford Borough a little extra care will help, as will staying alert to others Council does offer a summer sizzler programme, and there possibly planning a more nefarious scene. It’s not whistle are heath walks and junior park runs available. blowing to call 999 in such an event. It’s common sense and could save a life.

However, these are mostly aimed at the younger children in the community. My question is, what is available for those in Happy Summer All. the 12 to 16 age brackets? When childhood ends so quickly, and adulthood is thrust upon those least able to deal with it, this age group appear to be forgotten.

Yet what can we offer them? Youth clubs are non-existent and would probably be regarded as desperately old school by those they aim to cater for. Few teenagers want to volunteer or take part in formally organised activities. We have some amenities in the parks, including a skateboard area, but little else.

How can our young people learn and experience different skills if there are no outlets for them? We need free or low-cost schemes for them. Why not a writing club, for those interested in fan fiction and YA books? Where can they go to make music or perform; learn to act or dance; be encouraged to grow a talent? While there are efforts to provide sporting facilities, these are mainly for football or swimming. Why not bring the more obscure sports to the fore - archery, horse riding or roller blading?

Would the young benefit from experiencing a mindfulness session, or a pampering morning? Informal groups discussing fashion or anime? There is a veritable treasure of subjects for them. Perhaps an enterprising company would consider sponsoring such a workshop It is unfortunate that most of these activities come with such a hefty price tag. We find money for a free cinema in the park and the Dartford Festival, but these are one off events. We owe it to our children to provide them with a rich 24

Open up a wonderful world of literacy.

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RECIPE -

EASY PITTA BREADS

by Debbie Dickinson

Hopefully we’re going to have a wonderful summer with the chance for a lot of picnics – these pitta breads would be perfect to take along.

You’ll need: 250g Strong white bread flour 4g salt 7g easy use yeast – you can buy this in any supermarket, and it comes in either a box or packs of 7g sachets.

150ml cold water 2tsp oil What to do: Put the flour into a large bowl and add the yeast at one side of the bowl and the salt on the other. (Salt slows down the fermentation of the yeast so we try to keep them apart for as long as we can!)

Make a well in the middle of the flour and pour about half of the water in.

Using one hand only, combine the flour into the water – in a circular movement gradually working from the middle outwards. As it’s needed, slowly pour more water into the middle until all the flour has just been combined.

You should have a soft, not wet, dough.

Tip onto a clean, slightly oiled surface and knead for approx. 5 minutes until the dough is soft and smooth.

Pop into a bowl (inside wiped with a little oil) and cover with a tea towel.

Leave to rise for 2 hours until the dough doubles in size.

Tip the dough back onto the surface, this time sprinkled with flour and fold into itself to knock out the air and the dough is smooth again.

Preheat the oven to 200° Fan (220° conventional oven/ approx. gas mark 7) and put a baking tray in to heat up.

Divide the dough into 6 equal pieces and work on one at a time – keeping the others in the bowl covered with tea towel until required.

Use a rolling pin to roll out to an oval, pitta bread, shape – about 4/5mm think.

Take care to put them on the hot baking tray, a couple at a time, and bake for 5/6 minutes until they start to colour.

Take out and let cool.

Enjoy!

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25

TRAVEL SPOTLIGHT THE SEYCHELLES

in association with

by Tim Harden

The Seychelles islands are located off the East coast of Africa, spread between 4- and 10-degrees South of the equator, placed outside the cyclone belt which sets them apart from other Indian Ocean Islands. Consistently ranked amongst the world’s most idyllic tropical island getaways for its spectacular beaches and natural environment, the 115 islands are renowned for their exclusivity. Although often thought of as a luxury travel destination, a Seychelles holiday can also be had on the more modest budgets.

When is the best time to go?

The Seychelles is a year-round destination with a lovely tropical climate of 25-32°c year-round. March, April, October and November are the most settled and relatively windless times to visit the Seychelles. The most significant differences in weather are brought by the trade winds. The north-westerly trade winds blow from December to March when wind speeds are lower, and the weather is generally warm and humid.

The three of the largest granite islands - Mahé, Praslin and Celebrated for its pristine natural beauty and unspoiled La Digue - make up the economic, cultural and tourist hub environment, the archipelago offers a mix of flat coralline of the Seychelles but you can also island hop and stay on islands and the only mid-oceanic granitic islands on the the smaller islands. earth. A tropical paradise, it boasts; crystal clear waters which teem with marine life; powdery-soft white sand lining Mahé some of world’s most beautiful beaches as well as rich and Mahé is the largest island and home to 90% of the Seychelles verdant forests.

87,000 population, the international airport and the pretty With a population of only 90,000 the Seychelles nation is capital of Victoria, which is one of the smallest capital cities made up of a colorful and harmonious mix of ethnicities in the world. creating people as diverse as the islands themselves. This melting pot of cultures is evident in the architecture, the Praslin cuisine, the traditional dances and music giving the small Praslin is the Seychelles’ second largest island and boasts country amazing cultural breadth. the UNESCO World Heritage site of Valle de Mai which is home to the unique Coco de Mer palm trees which grow the Great emphasis is placed on the preservation of the country’s world’s largest nut. Praslin is also renowned for the picture environment and 50% of the land mass and waters are perfect Anse Lazio Beach, recognized as one of the most protected. As a result, the islands are home to a vast array spectacular in the world and the only 18-hole championship of flora and fauna, many species endemic to the Seychelles. golf course in the Seychelles La Digue La Digue is renowned for its giant granite boulders which are scattered on its shore, including the breathtaking Anse Source d’Argent which is among the world’s finest beaches.

The main mode of transport is still bicycles and ox-carts.

The Seychelles is three and four hours ahead of GMT in summer and winter respectively – so no jet lag. No visa is required other than a valid UK passport as this is granted on arrival.

Flights depart daily from the UK with leading airlines via their respective hubs including Emirates, Etihad, Condor, Kenya Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, Turkish Airlines, Qatar and Air Seychelles.

Exploring the islands of the Seychelles is easy. You get around larger islands by public transport or hiring cars and bicycles. When Island hoping you have a choice of ferry, 25 seater inter-island planes or helicopter.

There are no tropical diseases in the Seychelles so no special inoculations are required when travelling from the UK. The local currency is the Seychelles Rupee (SCR) but all major currencies are also accepted as well as MasterCard and Visa credit cards.

26

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Giant Barracuda, Sailfish and other trophy fish.

Hiking and walking trails A number of walking and hiking trails are available across the islands, ranging from gentle to the more challenging, which usually reward those who make the effort with spectacular views of the islands.

Flora and Fauna Around 50% of the Seychelles land mass is protected national parks. Eco travellers can enjoy variety of Flora and Fauna, many endemic to the Seychelles.

Birdwatching A leading destination for bird watching, boasting some of world’s rarest species and some found nowhere else on earth such as the Paradise Fly-catcher.

Spas The superb choice of 5-star resorts and hotels means there are at least 20 luxurious Spas offering a full range of beauty and wellness treatments and experiences.

The colonial heritage goes hand in hand with the influence of inhabitants from Africa, Madagascar, India and Mauritius, which create the vibrant culture of the Seychelles and Seychellois people. The main languages are Creole, English and French.

There is no religious tensions and many faiths are practised with Roman Catholicism being the main religion.

The Sega, Moutia and Kanmtole are the traditional music and dance of the Seychelles, performed to the evocative beat of drums, fiddles and guitars.

The best months for the different activities are: Bird-watching

April (breeding season), May/September (Sooty Terns nest), October (migration); Diving March/May and September/ November; Fishing October/April; Hiking/Walks & Trails May/September; Sailing Year-round; Snorkelling Year-round; Surfing/Windsurfing May/September; Turtle-watching October/February; Whale Sharks August/November If you are considering The Seychelles for you next holiday please do get in touch.

The local Creole food is a delicious fusion of French, African and Asian influences with fresh seafood and tropical fruit often the main ingredients. The refreshing local beer, SeyBrew, the local liqueur, Coco d’amour, and the local Takamaka Bay rum are all widely available.

Some of the activities available to you: Diving and Snorkelling The Seychelles is recognized as one of the top 10 diving destinations in the world. There are numerous snorkelling and over 77 dive sites off the three main islands alone, with PADI diving centres offering courses for all abilities.

Sailing and Watersports The Seychelles is a year-round sailing destination. Calm seas from October to May are particularly good for cruising and yachting and a wide range of craft are available to hire.

Non-motorised watersports are widely available at many resorts. In order to preserve the environment, motorised water-sports are only allowed in Beau Vallon Bay on Mahe.

Fishing The Seychelles offers some of the finest all year round fishing in the Indian Ocean. It boasts a staggering 386,000 sq miles of fishing grounds offering outstanding catches of Marlin,

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)

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27

ELLENOR WELCOMES HER ROYAL HIGHNESS, THE DUCHESS OF CAMBRIDGE’S MESSAGE OF SUPPORT TO MARK CHILDREN’S HOSPICE WEEK 2019

by Basia Wilson, ellenor

Her Royal Highness, The Duchess of Cambridge has sent a message of support to celebrate and mark Children’s H o s p i ce We e k .

Children’s Hospice Week (17-23 June) is organised

by Together for Short Lives, the UK charity for seriously i l l c h i l d re n a n d families.

Her Royal Highness, The Duchess of Cambridge, as Royal Patron of EACH, has seen first-hand that children’s hospices provide vital support for seriously ill children, young people and families. In her personal message, The Duchess hopes that others will join her in thanking children’s hospices for the lifeline care they provide during Children’s Hospice Week. ellenor is one of the charities joining The Duchess to mark Children’s Hospice Week and is delighted that The Duchess has sent a special message of support, shining a light on children’s hospices and showing how they help children, young people and families to make the most of their precious time.

The Duchess, as Royal Patron of East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH), has generously given her support to Children’s Hospice Week since 2013. The impact over many years has been transformational, helping to raise awareness of the needs of seriously ill children and families and to show why they need specialist support.

In an excerpt from the message, The Duchess says: “Children’s hospices provide vital sanctuaries for those experiencing the very toughest of times. They help families and carers build life long memories that are poignant, happy and often filled with laughter.

They provide a lifeline to children and families for however long support is needed and I hope that others join me in thanking them as we shine a light on their work during Children’s Hospice Week.”

Her Royal Highness, The Duchess of Cambridge’s message of support for Children’s Hospice Week can be viewed here www.togetherforshortlives.org.uk/royalmessage and https://www.each.org.uk/childrens-hospice-week Welcoming The Duchess of Cambridge’s message of support, Andy Fletcher, CEO for Together for Short Lives, the charity behind Children’s Hospice Week said: “We are thrilled that Her Royal Highness, The Duchess of Cambridge has sent a personal message of support for Children’s Hospice Week 2019, shining a light on the vital role hospices play in building life-long memories for children, young people and families. The Duchess’s words, and her support over many years, help to challenge perceptions about children’s hospices and to show they are happy and inspiring services that offer a lifeline to families through the very toughest of times.”

Graham Butland, EACH CEO said: “We know and the families we’ve supported know just how much of a positive difference children’s hospices can make, providing truly memorable moments of fun and inspiration, but there’s still a clear gap in the knowledge of many others. We often hear from families how they expected our hospices to be sad and dark places. That’s simply not the case, as Her Royal Highness knows from her visits to us, and it’s fantastic to have her continued support in raising awareness. Children’s Hospice Week is always a really important time of year for us and all children’s hospices across the UK, and I hope people will once again join The Duchess in championing the role they have to play.”

Rebecca Scalzo, ellenor’s Head of Children’s Services says: “ellenor is thrilled that HRH The Duchess of Cambridge is helping to raise awareness of services offered by ellenor, and other hospices across the country, by marking Children’s Hospice Week 2019. We welcome her support in highlighting the important work we do, helping children, young people and their families to make the most of life. To find out more about our services please call 01474 320007 Many people do not understand the challenges faced by or check out https://ellenor.org/childrens-hospice-care families when a child has a life limiting or life threatening illness and we are delighted to have her support”.

28

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www.dartfordfestival.co.uk

Central Park, Dartford - 13th & 14th July Gates open: 10.30am Saturday 10.30am Sunday Boyzlife Saturday 13th July

Lightning Seeds The Farm Rhythm of the 90’s

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The Spice Girls Show

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2 Days, 2 Stages, Food Court & Bars, Local Dance & Drama, Arts & Crafts, Charity & Business Stalls, Sports, Funfair & Loads More....

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Dimples Day Nursery, Green Street Green Road, Darenth, Kent, DA2 7HT 01322 285885 www.dimplesnursery.co.uk

Dimples are recruiting!

Are you a qualified and experienced Early Years practitioner looking for a new challenge?

Deputy Team Leaders for various age groups (41.25 hours pw) Nursery Nurses for various age groups (40 hours pw) Cooks assistant (30 hours pw)

If you are looking for a new career in childcare we also have some part time vacancies for unqualified staff Lunch time assistant (11.30-2.30) and of day assistant (4.306.45pm) If you are aged between 16-18 and would like to start a career in childcare we have apprenticeship positions (40 hours pw) To apply for any of the positions above please email your CV and covering letter to enquiries@dimplesnursery.co.uk If you would like more information please call 01322 285885 Dimples Day Nursery, Green Street Green Road, Darenth, Kent, DA2 7HT 34

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

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

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

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STUART JAMES COOPER EXTERIOR SPACES Bespoke work , imagination and originality For you to enjoy all year round .

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COMPETITION

THE MOUSETRAP

The Mousetrap has been delighting audiences for 67 years and the identity of the murderer remains theatre’s best kept secret. This is the second major national tour of the smash hit murder mystery following a record-breaking 60th anniversary debut in 2012.

First seen in Nottingham in 1952 starring Richard Attenborough and his wife Sheila Sim, The Mousetrap went on to become the world’s longest running stage production following its West End transfer to The Ambassadors in 1952 and St Martins in 1973 where it has played ever since, continuing a record-breaking run with over 27,500 performances in London so far. The beloved murder mystery returns to the road following the success of the first ever UK tour in 2012.

The Mousetrap will appear at The Orchard Theatre, Dartford Mon 23 – Sat 28 September.

Book tickets at orchardtheatre.co.uk or call the Ticket Office on 01322 220000.

Dartford Living has teamed up with The Orchard Theatre to offer 2 tickets to the opening night on the 23rd September. To be in with a chance of winning just answer the question below.

Which of these is an Agatha Christie Book?

a) Murder on the Nile b) Murder on the Thames c) Murder on the Solent d) Murder on the Avon Closing date 15th July. Email your answer to competition@dartfordliving.com Good luck!

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

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39

BAV’S SPORTING COMMENT Four-time Tour de France winner Chris Froome suffered multiple fractures, including his neck, in a crash in France last month. He is expected to be out of action for at least six months.

The crash happened during a practice ride before stage four of the Criterium du Dauphine in Roanne, France. In footage before the incident, a team-mate tells Froome “you don’t have to take risks, Chris” as he takes both hands off the handlebars to put on a jacket. But moments later, Froome took his hand off his handlebars again to blow his nose and was travelling at 54km/h when a gust of wind caught his front wheel, causing him to hit a wall. He was airlifted to Saint-Etienne Hospital, and recognises he is lucky to be alive.

Upcoming events in July include: 1-14: Tennis - Wimbledon 3: Cricket World Cup - England v New Zealand, Chesterle-Street 6-28: Cycling - Tour de France 7: Football - Women’s World Cup final, France 12-14: Formula 1 - British Grand Prix, Silverstone 13: Netball - World Cup, England v Scotland 14: Cricket - World Cup final, Lord’s 18-21: Golf - The Open, Royal Portrush 20-21: Athletics - Anniversary Games, Diamond League, London 21: Netball - World Cup final 24-28: Cricket - England v Ireland Test, Lord’s 27: Horse racing - King George VI & Queen Elizabeth Stakes, Ascot 28: Formula 1 - German Grand Prix, Hockenheim 30-31 Aug: Horse racing - Glorious Goodwood

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41

FITNESS TACKLING PROBLEM AREAS

By Mark Broadbent

We all have certain areas on our bodies where we seem to store more bodyfat and find it harder to shift the weight; for women this is often around the hips and thighs, and for men this is usually around the stomach. Whilst this isn’t a rule, and you may be different, this is generally what we tend to see and it’s dictated, at least in part, by your hormones (hence why it’s slightly different for men and women).

just that it may take a bit longer, especially if the other factors we’re about to talk about aren’t addressed.

So, what can you do about it?

The first thing is to plug the leak. Stop fat being stored. This is simply a case of getting control over your diet and exercise regime so that you’re not consuming more calories than you’re burning. Find the balance between what you eat and drink, and how active you are (this does not just mean cut calories! Read my other articles for a better understanding of how to go about doing this).

Once you have your routine in place and are burning more calories than you’re consuming (hopefully from healthy, nutritious foods), your hormonal profile should start to optimise itself and you’ll start to burn some bodyfat, but this will be from all over your body, not from any areas in particular.

However, there are a couple of things that may prevent you from burning fat from those problem areas (other than hormones) and the types of exercise you choose will play a role in whether or not the bodyfat from those areas gets mobilised and used for fuel or not.

Circulation plays a big part in this. If you mobilise fats (release them to be burned for fuel) from a problem area (your hips and thighs for example), these fats then need to make it into circulation to be burned. If they don’t get circulated, they’ll stay put and get laid back down as fat stores.

To do this you’ll need to make sure you’re not blocking The real question though is, can we target those areas for circulation, sitting down for example will not encourage fat loss (also known as “spot reduction”)? blood flow to your backside, hips and thighs – so sitting on a bike, rower or other machine isn’t likely to be beneficial if Unfortunately, the answer is complicated, and whilst we can’t, these are your problem areas. technically, spot reduce (i.e. do some stomach exercises to lose fat from your stomach), we can improve our chances Whilst exercising the area you’re trying to focus on doesn’t of burning fat from those areas. burn fat from that area, it does increase circulation in that area, which will help to make sure that fat from that area is Naturally you’ll tend to store fat in those areas as it’s a being burned along with from the rest of your body. protective mechanism built-in for our survival – protect the reproductive system/internal organs. What this means It’s quite common for people to have under-active muscles for you is that hormonally, you’re set up to store more fat in – the muscles of the backside (glutes) and lower abs being those areas, and they’ll be the most difficult areas to lose it some of the most common since most of us sit down for a from (because your body wants it there). large portion of the day – reducing blood flow and in effect “turning off” or de-activating those muscles. Other postural Now, you’ll always gain fat all over, and lose fat all over – it muscles tend to get weak too as a result of prolonged sitting might just get stored slightly quicker in those areas and take positions and lack of use. a bit longer to shift. So it’s not that it moves from their last, 42

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Ask a knowledgeable trainer for some activation exercises for these muscle groups and do these to “activate” the muscles before you start your exercises.

Then choose exercises that will work those areas whilst encouraging circulation. Large, full body exercises are better than waving your legs around Jane Fonda style (though these could be useful as the activation exercises if they hit the target muscles…).

Avoid anything sitting down and don’t use a bodybuilding type routine i.e. working one area/body part per workout.

Aim to work your upper body (to get blood flow there), then your lower body (to shift the blood flow to your legs), then upper body, then lower body… keep pushing the blood to different areas to encourage circulation (sometimes referred to as PHA – Peripheral Heart Action training). This will also improve your fitness levels as your heart is constantly having to work to pump blood to different body parts to feed the working muscles.

order and change the exercises to ones that will encourage circulation to problem areas. Upper body/Lower body supersets will be better than 3 sets of chest, then 3 sets

of legs… etc.

If you have problem areas that aren’t shifting and think your workouts need adjusting, show this article to your trainer and ask them to rewrite your workouts accordingly, or find someone who can help.

Fancy giving Dartford Bootcamps a go? You can try your first session for free, just visit www.DartfordBootcamps. com for more information.

Follow us on Facebook and Twitter for extra tips, advice and motivation.

If you’ve ever gone dizzy after a spin class, this is because you’ve pushed all of the blood to your legs and it stays there, so when you stand up/get off the bike, you go dizzy, the same as if you’ve been sitting down for a long time and stand up too quickly. So, while spin may be fun and have its place in some training protocols, it might not be the most effective use of your time if you’re trying to lose weight and have stubborn areas.

Review your workouts and see if you can tweak the exercise

DARTFORD PAINTED ROCKS

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

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

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

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THEATRE REVIEW

BY LIZ DYER

Summer’s here! (Hopefully someone will tell the weather friend said this was one of the best shows she’d ever seen soon.) As we head into the second half of 2019, it’s a good at the Orchard - and she’s seen a lot… moment to take a look back at some of the great shows we’ve enjoyed so far this year.

If that wasn’t enough Gary Barlow for us, in March we played host to Calendar Girls, which stopped off on its First though, a quick reminder that tickets are on sale national tour following the show’s huge success in the for this summer’s open air theatre in Central Park. This West End. This heartwarming musical is based on the true year’s options are Nell Gwynn (3rd July), Frankenstein story of the WI members who created a nude calendar (24th July) and The Winter’s Tale (7th August) - tickets are to raise money for charity - and it even inspired staff at only £5 for Dartford residents, so why not see all three? the Orchard to do the same!

Also this month, head over to Heathfields Hall, where DAODS present The Life (3rd-6th July), Cy Coleman’s Another big highlight of the year so far was the 50th Tony award-winning musical exposing the darker side anniversary production of cult musical Hair, back in of 1980s New York. And while things are a bit quieter May. Set in 1960s New York and starring X Factor’s Jake than usual at the Orchard over the summer months, Quickenden and Hollyoaks’ Daisy Wood Davis, this there are still plenty of great shows to enjoy - visit the controversial and psychedelic show about a group of website for more details. hippies protesting against the Vietnam War proved to be just as relevant in 2019.

So, what’s been your highlight of the year so far? Perhaps it was Saturday Night Fever, all the way back in January, Of course there have been plenty of other highlights too. which saw Casualty’s Richard Winsor don the famous There was Jodie Prenger in Abigail’s Party, Craig Revel white suit and take to the dance floor. Set to a soundtrack Horwood in Annie, and Joe McFadden in The House on of BeeGees’ hits and based on the classic movie, it’s no Cold Hill. We’ve had daredevil stunts from Cirque Berserk, surprise that this show was a bit hit here in Dartford. murder mystery in The Girl on the Train, and magical mayhem in The Worst Witch.

If you’re a Take That fan, it’s likely you’ll have good memories of The Band, which came to the Orchard in And we’re only six months in! The second half of 2019 February. Starring Five to Five, the winners of TV’s Let It has many more great shows in store, so check out the Shine reality show, The Band tells the story of four best Orchard website now to book your tickets. friends through the much-loved music of Take That. My

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CAR NEWS JULY 2019

By Dhiren Ganesh

In this month’s article we look at three new model upgrades 30 minutes plugged into a 50kW public charger gives from European manufacturers – all with electric engines enough juice for about 90 miles of driving. As with the offered. current car, you can have a 107bhp motor. There is a new B mode that is intended to make stop-start city driving easier. You can also have a wide range of driver aids that are designed to improve safety, including automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assistance, traffic sign recognition and blindspot monitoring. High-spec cars are now getting a 9.3in, portrait-orientated touchscreen infotainment system which, among other things, can show the availability of charging points in real time. the list of standard equipment includes keyless entry, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone mirroring and two USB ports in the rear. It will be available from August this year priced from £21,920 and is eligible for the Government’s £3500 electric car grant.

2020 BMW 1 Series – this all-new 1 Series will have front-wheel drive and hoping to be as enjoyable as previous versions. Available only as a five-door this time, it’s both wider and taller than the car it replaces, but is slightly shorter in length. However, there is more room for the heads, knees and elbows of rear passengers, and more space in the boot too. Inside, analogue instrument dials as standard with a 5.1in screen in the middle for infotainment and navigation information with upgrade options available. The engines will be availlable with one 1.5 petrol engine and 3 diesel engines which are expected to be more popular. There will also be a plug-in hybrid option, although not until 2021. Prices will start from £24,430, which is a slight increase on today’s five-door 2020 Peugeot 2008 SUV – Based on the same underpinnings 1 Series from September this year. as the latest 208 small hatchback, DS 3 Crossback and upcoming new Vauxhall Corsa, Peugeot’s rejuvenated small SUV is a significant 14cm longer than the outgoing model, promising more leg room and boot space inside.

The 2008 is offered with not only a choice of conventional petrol and diesel engines but also, for the first time, fully electric power. The electric version, called the e-2008, is powered by a 134bhp electric motor that is supplied energy by a 50kWh battery pack, giving it an official range of 193 miles. Petrol engine options include 1.2-litre threecylinder units in 99bhp, 128bhp and 153bhp forms, whilst the diesel engine includes the 1.5-litre 99bhp. On the inside, the boot has a capacity of 434 litres with the rear seats up and the interior looks suitably futuristic, with a small steering wheel, digital instrument panel and separate 2020 Renault Zoe – this is the new Renault Zoe which has a battery that is no larger than in the current Zoe, to ensure infotainment touchscreen (up to 10.0in) with ‘piano key’ it doesn’t eat into passenger space, its energy capacity shortcut buttons underneath. Smartphone integration is however up from 41kWh to 52kWh. That results in a is provided by Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and up to 20% improvement in official range, to 236 miles. This four USB ports can be found inside the car, depending on will be further than its rivals within this price range. A full spec. Available from Spring 2020 the prices are expected charge of the new Zoe from a 7kW home wallbox takes to start higher than the current version at circa £20,000. nine hours and 25 minutes. Or if you’re out and about, www.dartfordlivinglive.co.uk - www.dartfordliving.com - www.dartfordbusinessdirectory.co.uk

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Butler CCTV covers all your security needs from CCTV installation to smart alarms for domestic, residential and commercial properties with remote viewing on a range of devices. Repair and maintenance contracts available for new and existing systems. Friendly and reliable customer service to provide help whenever needed.

Current Vacancies Please find below our current vacancies, please go to the link to view job advert.

Midday Supervisor position: https://www.kent-teach.com/Recruitment/Vacancy/VacancyDetails.aspx?VacancyId=73157

Graduate Tutor position: https://www.kent-teach.com/Recruitment/Vacancy/VacancyDetails.aspx?VacancyId=73118

LSA position: https://www.kent-teach.com/Recruitment/Vacancy/VacancyDetails.aspx?VacancyId=73119

Maypole Primary School, Franklin Road, Dartford, Kent, DA2 7UZ Tel – 01322 523830 46

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Want to get fit in 2019 whilst enjoying fresh air and home grown veg?

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

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

Allotments for rent in Gore Road, East Dartford are available now.

Contact Clive 07542 477322 or dartfordeastallotments@ymail.com

Registered for Free for Two Children The Brent Methodist Church Hall PostCode DA1 1XF www.dartfordlivinglive.co.uk - www.dartfordliving.com - www.dartfordbusinessdirectory.co.uk

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Temple Hill - Thursday Dartford

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

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

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WHERE TO GO LOCALLY CARE & SUPPORT 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.

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

ALL DIRECTIONS is a community learning organisation for adults and young people aged 16+ with physical, learning and mental health difficulties. For more information, attend a taster session or visit our community lunch club, contact Caroline on 01322 440482 or 07570 347612 AGE UK, CRAYFORD LIBRARY POP IN PARLOUR COFFEE MORNING every Friday morning 10.30 - 12.30 Tea, Coffee, Biscuits and a chat - Just £1

THE 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 JUST FOR GROWN UPS GROUP We are a small friendly group who meet at

SOCIAL GROUPS 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 20S 30S DARTFORD BEXLEYHEATH SURROUNDING AREAS SOCIAL GROUP more information visit: www.meetup.com/20s-30s-DartfordBexleyheath-surrounding-areas-socialgroup/

DARTFORD U3A (UNIVERSITY OF THE THIRD AGE) meets on the first Tuesday of every month (except August) at St Anselm’s Church Hall, BEXLEY AND DARTFORD BRANCH West Hill, Dartford at 2pm, For information PARKINSONS UK For people with Parkinsons and their carers. about meetings and interest groups call 01474-709068 or visit our website.

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

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

Contact Wendy Leach. Tel: 02083065973 We are a group of retired men who meet monthly for a lunch and a speaker at the Swanley Bowls Centre. We also have THE DARTFORD STROKE GROUP a monthly walk and occasional coffee This group meets Monday afternoons mornings and as a side line we raise money at the YMCA Roundhouse, Overy for a local charity. If you are missing the Street, Dartford for a chat in a relaxing atmosphere, chair-based excise sessions, contact with other business men since you retired, why not come and join us on the stroke leaflets and magazines, informal last Thursday of every month. For more workshops, special art or games sessions and outings. It is aimed at Stroke Survivors, details contact Phil Burt on 01322 274541 or look at our website www.waprobus.com their carers, family and friends.

Please contact Theo Hodges on Theo.

Hodges@gmail.com or phone/text Theo on 078 755 68296 for more details and current dates of our events and meetings

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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.

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 wherever you live and costs just 60p to come along and join in. So why not come and join our friendly welcoming social club?

For further information please call either John Letchford on 01322 270732 or Pam Carr on 01322 222195.

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

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 including adult fiction, young adult/teen, children’s, non-fiction, writing for stage and screen and poetry. See us on Facebook “Bluewater Writers’ Group” For further info email Tony at: tonyjan@ talktalk.net

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

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

You will receive a very warm welcome.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

and an art group.

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

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

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

Advertise in the magazine for as little as £30 for a month

Contact: sales@dartfordliving.com HELP STRIDE4LIFE TO REACH £500,000 by coming along to our Fun Day to be held in the grounds of Darent Valley Hospital on Sunday 14 th July 2019 from 12 noon. Entertainment throughout the afternoon includes the Rock Choir, Fleetdown School Singing Choir, Rochester Pipe Band, Gymnastic Display, etc and a variety of stalls, a Dog Show.: something for everyone. All proceeds go to Darent Valley Hospital’s “ Cancer Fighting Fund” This fund enables the Hospital to purchase the latest equipment in the fight against Cancer..To find out more about Stride4Life go to www.valleyhospital charity.org.uk Free admission & car parking at the event

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WHERE TO GO LOCALLY CLUBS AND SOCIETIES

images, or bring your own for us to copy.

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

members are always welcome.

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

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

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

Wednesdays 8.00-9.30p.m. Free £6.00, refreshments and a raffle with www.facebook.com/groups/ tuition with a very friendly, sociable the chance to take home a beautiful DSTCAlumni group. The ideal way to make new floral arrangement. Contact Carol friends. Phone Ester 01322 220458 01322 220802 THE MANOR HALL VARIETY GROUP or email: We meet every Tuesday at 8.00 in esther.correia1@btinternet.com DARTFORD QUILTERS meet on the the Community hall (opp St Paulinus 2nd Saturday of each month at the church) Crayford. We are looking for NORTH WEST KENT FAMILY Mick Jagger Centre, Shepherds Lane, anyone who could help us with sound, HISTORY SOCIETY Dartford. We run a varied programme lights, scenery or singing/acting on the of activities suitable for the beginner stage - everyone welcome. Email me The Dartford Branch meet the 1st Saturday of each month from 10amthrough to the more experienced (Carolyn) for more details at 12:30pm at the Dartford Science and quilter. More details can be obtained c_sawyers@hotmail.com.

Technology College, Heath Lane, For from the club secretary on 01474 more information see www.nwkfhs.

834872 CRAYFORD TOWN ARCHIVE org.uk or ring Janet 01322384836 incorporating Barnehurst and Slade DARTFORD BOOKS AND CULTURE Green. Meet every Monday (except ERITH MODEL RAILWAY SOCIETY CLUB the third Monday) of the month at has been in existence for over 50 years meets once a month on Saturday Crayford Library hall - 2pm-4pm. Call and has well over 50 active members. mornings at Dartford Library. For more in for a chat about old Crayford and As the club continues to grow new information, find us at www.meetup. to view the large collection of local 52

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

com/West-Kent-Book-Club/

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

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

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

287214. Marie Blake 01474 704581.

For further information please phone Doreen Goddard 01474 707357.

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

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

information or to become a member please ring 01322 863556.

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

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

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

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

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

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WHERE TO GO LOCALLY DARTFORD’S BIG SING

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

Come along when you can and sing with us!

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

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

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

para sport please contact us on 01474 871484 or alternatively look at our website www.nagfencing.eu

ERITH YOUTH RUGBY

Sunday 10:45-12:00, Sussex Road Erith. Ages 4-16 welcome 07903 590515

WHEELCHAIR EPEE FENCING

Wheelchair epee fencing in Dartford and Gravesham, we are delighted to announce that New Ash Green Epee club, can now introduce wheelchair fencing. If interested in taking up this 54

KENT EXILES AMERICAN FOOTBALL CLUB

www.kentexiles.co.uk.

Coach Martin - 07944 730634.

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

5 YEAR OLDS

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

Call Saj on 07903 513104

DARTFORD GYMNASTICS

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

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

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

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

SPORTS GROUPS AND CLUBS

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

YOGA WITH EMMA

Becket Sports Centre (evenings):

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

ENERGY FITNESS AND NUTRITION

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

The website is www.energyfitnut.co.uk

HARTLEY SWIMCLUB AT WHITE OAK POOL, SWANLEY

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

Contact Diane on 01689 871846 or join us one Thursday.

DARTFORD JU JITSU CLUB

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

We have an adult class 8-10pm too.

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

DARTFORD ORIENTEERING

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

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HOP LIKE IT’S HOT

A fun (different) circuit based workout with space hoppers that challenges core stabilty, balance and strength. It is suitable for all levels and abilities. Classes are held every Wednesday evening at the stone pavilion starting at 8:15 until 9:00 costing £5 per person.

THE HIGHLY STRUNG BADMINTON CLUB,

Friendly club seeking new members.

Abilities mixed.

Would suit players with some prior experience.

Thursdays at 7.45-9.45pm, Dartford Girls’ Grammar School, DA1 2NT For further information please email: stephanie.thredgle@btinternet.com

WAR GAMES AND MODEL CLUB

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

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

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

www.seedscycling.co.uk

Refreshments and changing facilities are also available. For no extra charge, we hold D A R T FO R D A N D W H I T E O A K coached track sessions on Wednesday TRIATHLON CLUB evenings for runners of all abilities.

We are the local British Triathlon Federation Club covering Bexley, Dartford This is a tough but very popular way and Swanley. We offer coached swimming to increase your stamina and running sessions 3 times per week at White technique, and you’ll be in the company oak pool in Swanley and Fairfield pool of qualified coaches and some of the in Dartford. Our members compete in friendliest runners around. For more many local Triathlons plus many members information please visit our website are training towards Iron Man distance. http://centralparkathletics.co.uk/ We also have our own Triathlon in June every year which has been running since Every Sunday 10-11am – Child friendly 1989. If you are interested in joining us coached sessions – Come and join the then please visit our website CPA Swifts – As a fledgling club we would http://www.dartfordandwhiteoaktri.co.uk like to give children of all ages and abilities the chance to experience training and The White Oak Triathlon is one of the coaching within a club environment – oldest Triathlon events in England. come and be part of the team Now in its 29th year the event is a club Free first session with this advert organised event, for triathletes delivered by triathletes so you can be sure that SO LET’S GO RUNNING (SLGR) the club focuses upon delivering a first SLGR is a local running club with class race experience. The 2019 race structured training sessions designed will take place on 9th June. to improve runners speed and stamina. h t t p s : // w w w . s t u w e b . c o . u k / events/2019/06/9/3250/ There are currently four runs available with more starting soon; see below for DARTFORD ROAD RUNNERS more details.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

YOGA & MEDITATION CLASSES

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

DARTFORD BOCCIA CLUB

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

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

All welcome.

Facebook: Dartford Boccia Club

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ADVERTISERS INDEX

DIRECTORY OF LOCAL BUSINESSES ADVERTISING IN DARTFORD LIVING ACCOUNTANTS, FINANCE & LEGAL Downton Ali Associates....................................................59 BEAUTY Gorgeous Nail & Beauty....................................................10 BUILDERS, DECORATORS, ROOFING, BATHROOMS, HEATING, KITCHENS & WINDOWS Absolute Plumbing, Heating, Solar...............................1 & 5 Claremont Decorative Services........................................36 Steve Cook - Double Glazing.............................................22 The Double Glazing Repair Man.........................................4 CAFE Two Trees Cafe ................................................................37 CAR CARE ChipsAway..........................................................................11 CHILDREN Bip Bop Shop................................................................19 Dartford Our Space.....................................................47 Hartbeeps....................................................................49 Monkey Music...............................................................55 CHURCH Crossways Church.........................................................7 THE ARK..................................................................32,33 COUNCIL Dartford Borough Council ................................................31 DENTAL CARE Smile Avenue................................................................15 ENTERTAINMENT Bexley Park Sports and Social Club .................................15 Danson Park Country Fair..................................................14 Orchard Theatre................................................................43

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ESTATE/ LETTING AGENTS Fox Estates ........................................................................17 Wisdom Estates.................................................................23 FARM SHOP Stanhill Farm......................................................................4 GARAGES & VEHICLE SERVICES Orchard Garage.................................................................60 Shenley Road Garage.........................................................7 GARDENING Bow Arrow Gardening........................................................7 JEWELLERY Bradleys..............................................................................25 LOGISTICS/ REMOVALS FD TRANSPORT ..........................................................38 NURSERY The Brent Playgroup....................................................47 MEDICAL AND HEALTH Delmergate Pharmacy.................................................27 Northfleet Carer...........................................................13 Slimming World...............................................................2 MUSIC/DANCE & FITNESS Blondies Fitness.................................................................22 Dartford Bootcamps..........................................................32 Fairfield Leisure Centre.....................................................30 On Pointe Pilates................................................................19 Why Weight?......................................................................20 OPTICIANS Linklater Opticians.............................................................43 PICTURE FRAMING Craft Frames.......................................................................38

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RESTURANT EFES...................................................................................25 SECURITY Butler Security...................................................................46 Excel Security Systems.....................................................39 SPORTS Big Fun Run...........................................................................8 Dartford Football Club.......................................................40 Dog Jog................................................................................9 Fairfield Leisure Centre.....................................................28 Paul Page Golf Academy......................................................7 WILL WRITING SMN Will Writing ..........................................................38

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

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

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

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 HEALTH National Domestic Violence Darent Valley Hospital Helpline (24 hour) 01322 428100 Dartford East Health Centre 0808 2000 247 01322 421480 NSPCC Child Protection Helpline: Boots Chemist Bluewater 0808 800 5000 01322 624780 (Late Night) RSPCA Kent, ASDA Greenhithe Chemist North West Branch Helpline 01322 374100 (Late Night) The National Pandemic Flu Service 01322 286720 Samaritans: 0800 1513 100 116 123 West Kent NHS helpline 0800 0 850850 LOCAL MP Gareth Johnson 020 7219 7047 TRAVEL Heathrow Airport Enquires LOCAL SPORTS CLUBS 08700 000123 Bexley Rugby Club Gatwick Airport Enquires 01322 550142 or 08700 002468 www.pitchero.com/clubs/ National Rail Enquires bexleyrfc/ 08456 484950 Dartford Ladies Hockey Club Highways England Info Line Dawn Hall (Secretary) 07793 777250 0300 123 5000 Dartford Ju Jitsu Club Mondays, Dartford Girls HELPLINES Grammar School, Shepherds 24 Hour Kent Dementia Helpline: Lane. 6.30-8.00 Juniors, 0800 500 3014 8.00-10.00 Seniors www.

Alcoholics Anonymous: dartfordjujitsu.co.uk 58

Dartford Sharks Basketball Club Tim Dickson - 07855 692527.

Dartford Volleyball Club Graham - 01322 275290 or 07984 106134.

Stone Lodge Indoor Bowling Club 01322 274111.

VCD Table Tennis Club Eric Jenkins - 0208 3038312.

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

Jacqui 07764 182854.

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

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

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

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

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