Dartford Living July 25

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I find that quite a compliment as it makes me who I am as a singer.

Tilly is a professional singer and regular performer at events throughout the borough and beyond, whether she’s singing on a Saturday as part of the The Dartford Town Centre Live program, getting festive fronting the borough carol concert in Central Park, performing at local venues and care homes or providing vocals for weddings and events, she loves to sing and share joy through music.

What first got you into singing as you are a fab singer?

I’ve sung ever since I can remember, growing up my family always enjoyed listening to different styles of music and I just sang along to the music.

Who was your inspiration into music?

My mum loves to sing, she’s never sung professionally but it’s something she loves to do, growing up we would sing together, imagining we were performing our own show.

Throughout my childhood my grandad and grandma would play me lots of music from their extensive CD collection. They got me interested in swing & jazz music.

My family are always the people I look up to the most both in life and in my music career because they’ve always taught me that as long as I try my best and do something I love, that’s the most important thing I can do.

It wasn’t until I had to pick my options at school, I Are you working on any projects? thought, I love to sing why not take music GCSE and it I’m always working on new songs to sing to expand my went from there. repertoire list and always on the lookout for new venues or people who would like music for their weddings and I studied for two years at the Miskin Theatre In Dartford events, so that’s always a bit of an ongoing project. and got a national diploma in music performance before heading to university where I graduated with a 1st class The same with my music as therapy business, I’m degree in Popular music. always looking at ways I can bring my sessions to more places and people, at community groups, day centres I loved the idea of providing music for people at their and care homes. weddings or private parties and giving them a more personal and memorable experience.

I’m also super excited to have lots of Dartford based events coming up, working with Dartford Borough Who or what inspires you musically?

Council and Cohesion Plus on several dates for the I love such a variety of music it’s hard to pick one Town Centre Performances throughout the summer. particular artist or style.

I’ll also be back at this years Dartford Big Chill Out, As well as being a vocalist; I have my own music as which I’m really excited about as it’s always such a therapy business where I work with the elderly, people brillant event and the support from the community is with dementia and those with special needs, so I love amazing! music that evokes different emotions and memories, something that you can connect with, whether it’s a I’m also incredibly excited to be performing at the joyful song that makes you smile, a song that gets you Orchard West providing supporting music for an up dancing or even a ballad that takes you to a whole evening with Anton Stephens in July. other world. That’s what I think of when I’m looking at learning new songs from any artist of genre.

And last but not least what are your top 5 songs you like to sing at gigs?

How would you describe your musical style?

My top 5 songs to sing would have to be I would say I have my own style really. Clive Richardson • Son of a Preacher Man by Dusty Springfield presenter of the Maritime Radio Soul City show once • I Feel Good by James Brown said to me “the songs you sing are such a diverse mix • Price Tag by Jessie J of artists and genres, yet all the songs are sung with • Blue Skies by Ella Fitzgerald your own ‘Tilly sound’, never an impersonation of the • Dance with Somebody by Whitney Houston original”.

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Taking the pill? Or want to? Don’t run out…

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Pharmacists are highly trained experts who can offer advice on a range of illnesses, such as coughs, colds, Most pharmacies in Kent and Medway are now providing sore throats, ear infections, aches, and pains. free of charge contraception services on behalf of the NHS. Seven conditions, one solution – Pharmacy First No need to wait for a GP appointment. Trained The aim of the Pharmacy Contraception Service pharmacists are ready to help… just walk in. is to offer greater choice where people can access With Pharmacy First, anyone with one of the seven contraception services and free-up space in GP conditions and within the criteria, is eligible for free practices and sexual health clinics. expert advice, and where appropriate, a prescription.

Conditions they can offer prescription medicine for are: A person may self-refer or be referred by their general practice or sexual health clinic (or equivalent) to a • earache (aged one to 17) participating pharmacy.

• impetigo (aged one and over) • infected insect bites (aged one and over) The pharmacist will offer a confidential consultation and • sinusitis (aged 12 and over) as part of that, will reach a shared decision with the • sore throat (age five and over) person about the ongoing supply of their current oral • shingles (aged 18 and over) contraception or new contraception options.

• urinary tract infections (for women aged 18 and over) At the heart of communities, pharmacy teams have the If you pay for your prescriptions, these charges still right clinical training to give people the health advice apply through Pharmacy First. they need, with no appointment necessary and private consultations available.

Mum-of-two Gemma Hawkins was impressed the first time she used Pharmacy First. She said: “I used Find out more at www.StopThinkChoose.co.uk/ Pharmacy First when my son complained of on- pharmacy going earache. The pharmacist checked his ears and prescribed ear drops. We were told to return for prescription antibiotics if the issue did not resolve within a few days, which it did. A quick and brilliant service that I would recommend to others.”

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Get ready, Dartford! On Sunday, July 13th, at 7:00 PM, the Mick Jagger Centre will be alive with the sounds of the Dartford Symphony Orchestra’s Grand Opera Gala.

This promises to be a truly special evening, bringing the drama and beauty of opera right to our doorstep.

Under the direction of conductor Ben Knowles, with Sylvia Seaton leading the orchestra, you’re in for a real treat. This concert is designed for everyone to enjoy, whether you’re a lifelong opera fan or simply looking for a wonderful night out filled with fantastic music.

The programme is packed with operatic favourites that are sure to stir your emotions. The Overture to Rossini’s The Barber of Seville is followed by the beauty of “Un Bel Di, Vedremo” from Puccini’s Madam Butterfly. You’ll hear Mozart’s elegant “Un Aura Amoroso” from Cosi Fan Tutte and the instantly recognisable “O Mio Babbino Caro” from Puccini’s Gianni Schicchi. To round of the first half there’s the famous “Galop” from Offenbach’s Orpheus in the Underworld – a real knees-up!

Olivia Bell

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After the interval, the magic continues with the Toreador’s Song from Carmen, and then a touch of American flair with Gershwin’s “Summertime” from Porgy and Bess and Bernstein’s “Somewhere” from West Side Story.

The evening builds to a thrilling climax with the beloved “Nessun Dorma” from Puccini’s Turandot, an aria that always leaves audiences spellbound.

We’re incredibly fortunate to have a superb line-up of local talent: sopranos Olivia Bell and Zara Donaldson, and tenor Ed Hughes. They’ll be lending their voices to these unforgettable melodies, making it a truly memorable experience for all.

There’s a licensed bar at the Mick Jagger Centre and you’ll find ample car parking making your visit as convenient as possible. This Grand Opera Gala is a fantastic opportunity for the local community to experience world-class music right here in Dartford.

Don’t miss out on what promises to be a truly enjoyable and inspiring evening!

Tickets are available direct from dartfordsymphonyorchestra.com

Zara Donaldson

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Ed Hughes

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For care you can rely on, choose your local Bupa care home

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What truly sets thi project apart is the lasting legacy it leaves – not just in improved biodiversity and conserved heritage, but in the relationships, knowledge, and shared - £4 million invested over seven years in one of Kent’s commitment that will support the valley’s future. At Kent Downs National Landscape, we are proud to continue most historic and biodiverse river valleys - More than 40 conservation and heritage projects building on this foundation, ensuring the Darent Valley completed in the Darent Valley, across Sevenoaks and remains a place of inspiration, discovery, and wellbeing for generations to come.”

Dartford districts.

- More than 4,000 people took part in community events, Collaboration has been key. The DVLPS united local volunteering, and educational programmes - The Darent Valley Landscape Partnership Scheme authorities, conservation charities, landowners, artists, (DVLPS) was established in 2018 and delivered by the schools, and archaeologists to protect species-rich Kent Downs National Landscape team with support chalk grasslands and meadows, enhance access, and engage communities. More than 4,000 people from the National Lottery Heritage Fund and Interreg.

- New legacy group to continue nature recovery and participated in walks, talks, creative workshops, and school visits, including nature retreats during the access initiatives across the valley pandemic, and youth-led heritage projects.

The Darent Valley Landscape Partnership Scheme (DVLPS), a £4 million initiative delivered by the Kent Digital tools like the Darent Valley Trails app and Downs National Landscape and supported by the Samuel Palmer Trail have helped make the valley more National Lottery Heritage Fund, Interreg, and 13 accessible to locals and visitors, while archaeological core partners, ends this summer after seven years work at sites like St John’s Jerusalem and Lullingstone of ambitious heritage, cultural, and community-led Roman Villa has revealed new layers of the valley’s rich past. conservation.

Stretching 15 kilometres from the chalk ridges of the Kent Downs to the Thames Estuary and just a short distance from London, the Darent Valley is home to rare chalk grasslands, ancient woodlands, and centuries of built heritage. Since 2018, the DVLPS has delivered more than 40 major projects to restore habitats, conserve historic landmarks, and connect thousands of people with this nationally important landscape.

A celebration event was held on Wednesday 4th July at Lullingstone Castle to mark the project’s end and recognise the contributions of key partners, volunteers, and stakeholders. Guests explored the restored Ice House, Queen Anne’s Bath House, and World Garden, and chatted to partners who helped bring the project to life.

William Alexander, speaking on behalf of the Darent Valley Farm Cluster and Nature Partnership, said: “The Darent Valley Landscape Partnership has quietly delivered a diverse range of projects across this precious landscape during the past seven years.

I have witnessed improvements to public access, archaeological work that has unearthed glimpses of our heritage, community engagement and educational Nick Johannsen, Director of Kent Downs National events, environmental restoration projects to improve Landscape and aspiring UNESCO Cross-Channel biodiversity and, alongside all this, a celebration of the valley’s art and culture.

Global Geopark, said: “The Darent Valley Landscape Partnership Scheme exemplifies the power of long-term, collaborative work to The partnership team has had a broad and positive protect and enhance a landscape of national importance. impact across the whole of the Darent Valley and leaves Over seven years, the project has successfully restored a valuable legacy for all who are fortunate to live in or vital habitats, safeguarded historic sites, and engaged visit this unique corner of Kent.” thousands of people through education and community activities. This integrated approach has strengthened As the programme concludes, the Kent Downs National the connection between local communities and the Landscape will work with organisations to take forward valley’s natural and cultural heritage, creating a resilient the work, building on established partnerships and their legacy to ensure the Darent Valley remains a sanctuary and thriving environment. for nature, culture and wellbeing.

From the restoration of chalk grassland at Polhill and Preston Hill, to the conservation of 18th-century buildings at Lullingstone Castle and the remains of the Archbishop’s Palace in Otford, the partnership has transformed both the natural and cultural fabric of the valley.

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We’re transforming our Outpatient Services The NHS is changing how we deliver outpatient services so that you can be seen more quickly and can access and interact with our services in a way that better suits your lifestyle. The following initiatives will give you and your carers (if applicable) more control and greater choice over how and when you access care: Patient Initiated Follow Up (PIFU) Patients Know Best (PKB) Virtual appointments

Patient self-check in Self-cancellation or changing of appointments Scan the QR code or ask a member of staff to learn more about the benefits of our new and improved services:

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As we all seek refreshing alternatives to crowded cities and over-touristed beaches, the timeless appeal of lakes and mountains is making a big comeback. From crystal-clear waters perfect for wild swimming to Alpine peaks ideal for hiking, biking and even wine tasting, Europe’s lakes and mountains offer a rich blend of natural beauty, wellness, and outdoor adventure. Here are 4. Hallstatt & Salzkammergut Lakes, Austria some of the best destinations for a lakes-and-mountains Hallstatt, perched on a glassy lake and backed by the Dachstein Alps, is arguably one of Europe’s prettiest holiday. lakeside towns. The surrounding Salzkammergut region is dotted with pristine lakes like Wolfgangsee and Atter1. Lake Bled & the Julian Alps, Slovenia Lake Bled, with its postcard-perfect island church and see, making it a top choice for swimming, kayaking, and medieval cliffside castle, is one of Europe’s most en- gentle alpine hikes. Austrian charm, historic salt mines, chanting lake destinations. Surrounded by the Julian and spa towns round out the experience.

Alps, this area offers excellent hiking, rowing, and cycling. The nearby Triglav National Park is a haven 5. The French Alps & Lake Annecy, France for mountaineers and wildlife lovers. Add Slovenia’s Nicknamed the “Venice of the Alps,” Annecy offers tureco-friendly ethos and delicious local cuisine, and it’s quoise waters, canals, and an Old Town bursting with charm. Lake Annecy is ideal for paddleboarding, sailing, easy to see why Bled continues to be a rising star. and cycling, while the surrounding mountains invite sce2. Lake Geneva & Montreux Riviera, Switzerland Switzerland effortlessly blends mountain luxury with nic hikes and paragliding. With nearby access to Chalake serenity, and nowhere does this better than Lake monix and Mont Blanc, this region blends summer fun Geneva. Surrounded by vineyards, French-influenced with alpine majesty.

towns, and views of Mont Blanc, Lake Geneva is as cultural as it is scenic. Base yourself in Montreux or Vevey Tips for Travelling Europe’s Lakes & Mountains in for lakeside promenades, wine tasting in Lavaux, and 2025/26 excursions to Rochers-de-Naye for breathtaking pano• Go off-peak: Visit in late spring or early autumn for ramic views. fewer crowds and ideal hiking weather.

3. The Dolomites & Lake Braies, Italy The Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offer • Sustainable travel: Use rail where possible—many dramatic peaks and lush meadows ideal for summer destinations are well connected by scenic train routes. hiking and winter skiing. Lake Braies (Lago di Braies), located in the South Tyrol region, is a stunning emer- • Mix activities: Combine water sports, spa time, and ald lake framed by towering cliffs. With excellent access alpine hikes for a well-rounded holiday.

to alpine refuges, gourmet mountain cuisine, and picture-perfect villages like Ortisei, it’s a paradise for active Whether you crave active adventures or peaceful panoramas, Europe’s lakes and mountains promise revitalistravellers. ing escapes and unforgettable scenery.

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Jim Dickson MP for Dartford From the day I was elected last July, I have been working hard in Parliament and across the local area to support our communities and to carry my Dartford constituent’s voice and priorities to Westminster.

I am here to support you, and my office is always here to help – please get in touch on jim.dickson.mp@parliament.uk for any questions, support or to sign up to my next surgery. I look forward to meeting you soon.

If you’d like to keep updated with my regular activity and find out about new events and surgeries, follow me on social media (Jim Dickson MP on X, Facebook and Instagram) or sign-up to my newsletter on the QR code.

Please always feel welcome to get in touch with me via email for any questions or if you’d like to speak with me.

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By Jane Stevenson

We operate so differently too. I talk to myself a lot, or natter away to the cats, hoping they will advise on the finer points of grammar and spelling. I’ll get up to make coffee, hang out the washing or just wander off for a break. OH is the strong silent type, focussed, committed and busy opening spreadsheets, emails and other important stuff! He’s also known for suddenly whistling theme tunes now and again – think ‘The Professionals’ meets ‘Hawaii 5-O’. It’s disconcerting to say the least.

Back in Dartford, we were physically apart in different rooms, and it worked well. Now, I’ve discovered I cannot write when OH and I are space sharing. I’ve no idea why, but I feel restricted and reined in. Looking back in the mists of time, I did most of my homework shut away from the family, and in later years, rarely joined in seminars at university.

I’m beginning to wonder if Life Under The Stairs should really be renamed. Since moving here, most of my writing usually takes place on the beach (as long as it’s not raining), or in the local cafes, where the very kind owners keep me supplied with coffee ‘one shot Americano please’ without being asked.

When we downsized, OH purloined our third bedroom in the new house and did an excellent job of recreating his original study, right down to the piles of books on the floor! I was left ‘homeless’, not even a corner to call my own!

For years, my old workspace under the stairs was dark and cramped with just enough room for a printer and some books. I loved it. I did relocate, once the Offspring had sprung, to the very small bedroom, where I created my own little world, surrounded by my pictures, knick-knacks, books and craft table.

Now, I feel abandoned and adrift with no space to call my own. We share the small dining room where our desktop, printer and other office paraphernalia live.

My bureau forms a sort of work area, but OH and I have vastly different tastes in music, art and books so the room remains testament to our shared tastes, while not reflecting either of our characters. Even more unfortunately it just doesn’t have the vibe I need to work.

Ironically, the beach offers me the anonymity I enjoy when working. Sometimes it is busy and noisy, but I can shut that out and concentrate on the job in hand.

People are respectful of personal space and merely nod a greeting as they pass.

It is the same with the local cafes. They are usually bustling, but there’s always a corner to sit quietly and think. The noise is more of a comfortable background hum, mixed with the smell of coffee and the occasional waft of freshly baked bread drifting around.

Over time, I’ve noticed there are a group of us who prefer café working. Most write, a couple draw. We work quietly, oblivious to the customers. We might briefly nod in acknowledgement to each other. We are office colleagues with no office, no company and no discernible ties. We simply choose to work away from our homes. It’s a nonverbal, companionable atmosphere conducive to our tasks.

Will I change my page header? Life On The Beach sounds like a bad teenage move from the 1960s.

Life In The Cafe sounds trendy and pretentious. Life Under The Stairs suggests a somewhat Middle Earth existence far removed from the everyday routine or a neighbour of Harry Potter! I don’t know. I like my title page – it’s how I perceive the world. I guess it’ll stay the same.

Take care people

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Summer is here…

Let’s make it happen!

Put feet up!

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www.urbansticks.co.uk YOUR HOME (OR PROPERTY) MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE OR ANY OTHER DEBTS SECURED ON IT. A FEE MAY BE CHARGED FOR MORTGAGE ADVICE. THE EXACT AMOUNT WILL DEPEND ON YOUR CIRCUMSTANCES. Urban Sticks Mortgage Solutions Ltd is an appointed representative of The Right Mortgage Ltd which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registered in England & Wales no 10680763 Registered Address: 43 The Base, Basepoint Business Centre, Victoria Road, Dartford, Kent, DA1 5FS www.dartfordbusinessdirectory.co.uk | www.dartfordliving.live

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www.dartfordflorist.co.uk

All of our designs are available for you to view in the comfort of your own home at www.dartfordflorist.co.uk

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Same day contactless deliveries are available (If ordered by 12 noon Monday Friday, before 11am Saturdays) Thank you for your continued support

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Date Tue 29 th July Wed 30th July Tue 5th Aug ust Wed 6 th Aug ust Tue 12th Aug ust Wed 13 th Aug ust Tues 19 th Aug ust Wed 20 th Aug ust Tue 26 th Aug ust Wed 27th Aug ust

Ti me 9.3 0-11.30 9.30-11.30 9.3 0-11.30 9.3 0-11.30 9.3 0-11.30 9.3 0-11.30 9.3 0-11.30 9.3 0-11.30 9.3 0-11.30 9.3 0-11.30

Les son Eng li sh and VR Maths & NVR Eng li sh and VR Maths & NVR Eng li sh and VR Maths & NVR Eng li sh and VR Maths & NVR Eng li sh and VR Maths & NVR

Boo k your child’s Mock Test – full repo rt provided.

Mo n 28 th July Mock Te st A 9:3 0-12.00 Mo ck Te st A 1:00 -3:30 t h Mon 18 Aug ust Mo ck Te st B 9:3 0-12.00 Mock Te st B 1:00 -3:30 Please note this does not include the 45-minute writing exercise

To book your child’s place:

email: learnandexcel121@outlook.com or telephone: 07300 796168 Enhanced CRB checked. All books and stationery provided.

Our 11 Plus preparation programme is designed strictly for familiarisation. www.dartfordbusinessdirectory.co.uk | www.dartfordliving.live

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Local Handyman

www.harryhandy.co.uk

Because You’ve Got Better Things To Do Insured, Trade Qualified, Clean & Reliable Land-line: 0203 417 6799 M: 07533 616 489 www.harryhandy.co.uk E-Mail : enquiries@harryhandy.co.uk

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Save time and avoid waiting to see a GP... think Pharmacy First Blood pressure checks Oral contraception Repeat prescriptions

Scan the QR code to discover how our expert pharmacy teams can help you.

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The school holidays are fast approaching and we want our children to have fun and explore. Knowing we can keep them safe is a key part of feeling confident to let them go. It is worth being aware of the risks in your local area and talking about them with your children.

always sad to hear stories of young people who have had serious life changing injuries or have died through taking risks around railways.

Being safe around traffic Learning about road safety starts at a very young age, holding your child’s hand and teaching them the ‘green cross code’. Children learn from example, so we need to ensure that we don’t take risks on or around roads.

We should use designated crossing areas, where possible, and ensure that we stop look and listen before we cross. Children are easily distracted, for example, by a friend across the road or by their mobile phones.

They often are wearing headphones or buds, so may not hear traffic approaching. This can be particularly difficult with the growth of electric vehicles.

Being water safe Hopefully we will have a lovely hot sunny summer, although the rainy weather usually arrives as soon as the school holidays start. It is tempting to cool off in natural water sources, such as ponds, lakes and rivers. However, these are dangerous, even for strong swimmers. The water can be extremely cold, even on a hot day. Cold water shock can make it extremely difficult to swim. There can be hidden obstacles such as shopping trolleys or glass in the water. If you do get into trouble, there are no lifeguards to help and the banks can be steep and slippery, making it hard to get Keeping your child safe out.

Talk to them about these dangers to help them stay safe When on holiday, be aware of the warning signs and when they are out on their own. what the flags mean. Try to swim where there are • Help them to be aware of their local environment and lifeguards. Be aware that inflatable toys can be easily how they can stay safe blown out to sea by the wind or on currents, so only • Ask them about the places that they might go, where to use these in swimming pools. The UK has some of the avoid and why, and what to do if they are worried when biggest tidal ranges in the world – being aware of tide they are out on their own times can stop you from getting caught out.

• Remind them not to climb on barriers and fences that are there to keep them safe and to obey danger signs Abandoned buildings and building sites.

• Agree a time they should be home Whilst these may look like a fun place to play, building sites can contain dangerous machinery, toxic waste and The Child Accident Prevention Trust has some useful chemicals. Abandoned houses may have unsafe walls, information on keeping your child safe – please visit ceilings and floors, broken glass and rusty objects, plus their website capt.org.uk/ may be full of rats. As well as being dangerous, it is illegal to enter these sites.

Dr Julie Taylor is a GP Partner and Trainer at Railway lines the Wellcome Practice and the Primary Care Research shows that young people are more likely to take a risk on railway lines during the summer holidays. Medical Director for Dartford Gravesham and They may play on or around railway lines or cross Swanley Health and Care Partnership. them as a short cut. It is illegal to trespass on railway lines. Trains travel fast and cannot stop quickly. It is www.dartfordbusinessdirectory.co.uk | www.dartfordliving.live

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5. Cover up – in addition to wearing cooler clothing it’s also important to remember a hat. No matter whether Welcome to the latest edition of Senior Snippets: the it’s a cotton baseball cap or a straw boater, headwear monthly advisory column with the older members of will help to keep your face in the shade. our community in mind, brought to you by Christina 6. Pick the perfect spot – seek out the coolest areas Uppenkamp, Director of Home Instead Dartford. of your home during warmer weather. Keep curtains With the temperatures rising now, it is important to and blinds closed to prevent sun heating up rooms, recognise that older people’s bodies are often unable especially your bedroom. to adjust to sudden changes in temperature, which makes them more susceptible to heat exhaustion and 7. If safe, leave windows open during the night. heat stroke. Doctors have warned that hot nights are particularly dangerous for elderly persons as it is more 8. Turn off non-essential lights and electrical items. difficult for their bodies to recover from heat stress If you would like to speak to someone at Home Instead, caused during hot days. please do not hesitate to get in touch. We also welcome With this in mind, here are a few tips on how to stay safe any suggestions for future topics from you all. All you have to do is write to me at c.uppenkamp@dartford. during the warm summer months: homeinstead.co.uk or by post to Home Instead, St 1.Avoid the hottest times of the day (between 11am – Fidelis House, St Fidelis Road, Erith, DA8 1AT. 3pm). If you do need to venture out, make sure you aren’t outside for long periods of time and find shady spots when you can.

2. Keep hydrated – even if you don’t feel thirsty, it’s important to drink plenty of water or fruit juice to replace fluids lost during sweating. Avoid caffeine or alcohol which increase dehydration.

3. Think lightweight – choose clothing which is loose, lightweight, light coloured and breathable, such as a white linen or cotton shirt.

4. Cool down – take cool showers and baths when possible. If you’re out and about, use a cotton hankie soaked in cool water and place it on the back of your neck and on your wrists.

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Registered Charity No: 1121561

TO FOLLOW OUR STORY

With four decades of dedication to hospice care, we’re still there for you when you need us.

Visit ellenor.org/our-story to find out more

ellenor.org

01474 320007

@ellenorcharity

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Invisalign Open Days at Dartford Road Dental Centre

OFFER EXTENDED!!

Our exclusive Invisalign Open Day offer is now available until the end of July!

Offer Price: £3650* Includes: Upper and Lower Aligners Full Jaw X-ray Teeth Whitening Vivera Retainers Please call 01322 223 927 quoting DL-INVIS2 to reserve your FREE consultation, alternatively book online at www.drdc.co.uk *Interest free finance available, over terms of up to 18 months (subject to status)

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SIMPLE SUMMER

parents to focus on what is of real value in terms of early years development.

She adds; “All children develop at a different pace.

Being school ready it isn’t simply about your child being able to write their own name or count to 1000.

Much more important is ensuring they have developed independence, confidence, good communication and interpersonal skills – all key to a smooth transition.

These are a core part of our nursery curriculum, and so we support parents in building on this at home.”

THRIVE OUTSIDE Young children are naturally curious and keen to learn from others, so incorporating key elements into your summer routine can make simple days great learning opportunities.

For parents with young children, summer is a busy time.

Juggling work commitments, holidays, and making the most of precious family moments. It’s also when many parents look ahead to the move from nursery to starting school in September.

A change of setting, routine and new academic expectations can make what should be a relaxing time of year become fraught with anxiety. Couple that with the recent Government emphasis on the need for young children to be ‘school ready’ and what should be a joyful transition often feels unnecessarily daunting.

Louise Mottau, expert in early years development and manager at KatieB Kids believes a ‘simple summer’ approach can provide a reassuring framework for parents.

EMPOWERED PARENTING Louise says: “There are many misconceptions about what it means for children to be ‘school ready’ and so it’s good to bust some of these myths and empower

The KatieB Kids’ forest school allows children to learn to navigate risk safely, understand rules, develop confidence and co-ordination. Get outside over the summer to help children practice making informed choices, push physical boundaries and become resilient and adaptable to change. Emulate the nursery experience and develop decision making, by asking your child ‘what’s the weather like today - what do you think you might need to wear?’, enabling independent thought and autonomy.

“Play is the highest form of research”” — Albert Einstein

How to support school readiness at home o Talk to children openly about school and give them time to ask questions or talk about aspects that might be worrying them. o Read books about starting school to take away some of the mystery. o Encourage independence in self-care – from mealtimes and getting dressed to staying safe, pottytraining and personal hygiene. The more they practice, the quicker they’ll get! o At KatieB Kids children self-serve at meal times, dishing up their own food and pouring their own drinks. Carrying their plates and cups to the trolley when they’re finished emulates the set-up of a school canteen. Try re-creating this at home. Worried about mess? Start with an outside picnic setting! o This holiday play turn-taking games such as Snap or animal lotto – great for ‘sharing’ and extending attention, ready for extended periods of focused time when children start school.

For more childcare tips and expert advice visit: www.katiebkids.co.uk

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Volunteer Drivers Needed Would you like to help make a difference for others within our local community?

Are you feeling distressed, overwhelmed, or that things are too much for you?

Do you have a full driving licence and access to your own car?

The Dartford Safe Haven is open every day, 6pm-11pm.

We offer free mental health support to anyone over 18, in a safe and supportive environment. You can visit for a chat or access one-to-one emotional support from our trained staff. We offer face-to-face and virtual support.

Contact us or drop in:

A new partnership project with Dartford Borough Council, funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, delivered by Healthy Living Centre Dartford

Learn more:

Visit: 18 Hythe Street, Dartford, DA1 1BX Call: 07967 876 695 / 07967 876 699 Email: dartford.mhm@nhs.net www.mhm.org.uk | dartford.mhm@nhs.net

If you answered yes to the above, please contact us on 01322 470926, email transport@hlcdartford.org.uk or complete the online form using the QR code to register your interest.

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CHARITY TOY AND TRAIN FAIR Falconwood Community Centre, The Green, WELLING, Kent DA16 2PG Thursday 28th August 2025 5.00pm-9.30pm Sales Stands:New and pre-enjoyed model railways (Hornby, Bachmann, Dapol, Farish, Fleishmann) Spare parts; books; stamps; Sci-fi; Tinplate, Die-cast vehicles (Dinky, Corgi, Matchbox etc); Dr Who; teddy bears; puzzles; Star Trek; Film memorabilia; transport ephemera.

REFRESHMENTS- tea, coffee, rolls, etc FREE Level parking

Adults £1.50, accompanied children FREE SPONSORS: FALCONWOOD BOOKS 020 8303 8291 ROTARY CLUB OF BEXLEY Enquiries: 020 8310 5018 or david.boneafcw1@gmail.com Bus B16 from Welling and Falconwood railway

www.dartfordbusinessdirectory.co.uk | www.dartfordliving.live Stations stops outside the community centre.

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TO FIND OUT AND KEEP TRACK OF WHERE OUR MOBILE UNIT WILL BE NEXT, PLEASE FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA GAJAK_STREET_FOOD GAJAK INDO-MAURITIAN STREET FOOD ALSO AVAILABLE FOR CORPORATE & PRIVATE FUNCTIONS

WWW.GAJAK.CO.UK INFO@GAJAK.CO.UK 07403 075 456

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Local knowledge & unparalleled expertise From your trusted funeral directors in Dartford

Funerals • Memorials Direct Cremations

Leverton Funeral Service 4 Kent Road, Dartford DA1 2AJ | 01322 777 125 dignityfunerals.co.uk/local 60

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KEEPING BUSINESS LOCAL

Craft Frames Qual ity Pict ure Framing

F re e a dvi ce a n d e s ti m a t es

LOCAL AUTHORITIES

EDUCATION

BUSINESS

We Design. We Print. We Deliver.

• NCR Sets • PVC Banners • Leaflets • Printed Envelopes • Brochures • ID Cards • Calendars • Promotional Items • Business Cards • Prospectuses • Folders • Mail Merges • Signage • Access Cards • Event Programmes Proudly working in partnership with:

01322 288627

l

darenthprint.co.uk

N e edl ewo r k & Ca r d M a ki ng D. M. C S to c ki st Ki ng C ole K nitti ng W ool C ry sta l A rt Ca r ds & Ki ts

Well Worth a Visit!

21 West Hill Dartford DA1 2EL 01322 278703 w w w.c raftf ra me s. co .uk F re e par king at re ar Cl osed Sun days a nd Mondays

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Dartford Borough Council Walk and Talk Groups

Healthy Living Walk - Mondays 10.00am (Contact the One You Team)

Dartford Heath Walk - Tuesdays 10.00am (Upper Heath Lane)

Darenth Country Park - Tuesdays 10.30am (Darenth Valley Hospital)

Swanscombe Castle Hill - Tuesdays 12.30pm

Greenhithe - Wednesdays 10.30am (St Mary’s Church)

Stone Pavilion Walk - Thursdays 9:30am

Central Park - Thursdays 11.30am (War Memorial)

Swanscombe - Fridays 10.00am

Swanscombe Castle Hill - Sundays 9.00am

weekly!

(Castle Hill Community Centre)

• Health walks are free and led by trained volunteer walk leaders

• Short social walks that last around an hour

• No need to book - just turn up

• Any age and ability welcome

For more details including starting points please contact the One You Kent team call 01322 343067 or email oneyou@dartford.gov.uk

• Great for people getting little or no exercise, recovering or suffering from an illness or lacking in confidence • Dress for the weather including comfortable footwear

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Funded by

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