Dartford Living May 2022

MAY 2022 ISSUE 191

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INSIDE THE MAGAZINE THE DARTFORD HEDGEHOG PROJECT - PAGE 5

SANDI TOKSVIG INTERVIEW - PAGES 14 & 15

NEW THERAPY AT ELLENOR HOSPICE - PAGES 18 & 19

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CONTENTS

The Dartford Hedgehog Project How Many Song Titles Can You See Next Slide Please Local Feature Hospice Sows The Seed Travel News- with Harden Holidays Dartford Giving Life Under the Stairs Walking With The Darts Senior Snippets Fitness Dartford Painted Rocks Festival of the Landscape Sport News Wellbeing- Hayfever The Chapel of St Luke Payroll for Business Car News Upcoming Shows at the Orchard Theatre Competition Debbies Delicious Recipe Where to go Locally Local Clubs and Associations Firewalkers raise a blazing hot £14000 for local charity WE ARE BEAMS! Advertisers Index Useful Numbers

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DARTFORD LIVING MAGAZINE PRINTED BY: Dear Dartford Living Readers, Welcome to the May magazine - we hope you like it!

We continue to live in strange times, but as usual the magazine is jam-packed with lots of local information and local businesses.

Please support as many as you can - use them or lose them! Like never before, your community needs you.

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

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

If you email editor@dartfordliving.com we will add you to our e-newsletter mailing list and you will join over 20,000+ local people who read the magazine each month.

Take care, Vijay Editor - Dartford Living (and the rest of the fantastic Dartford Living volunteer team)

ONLINE

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

Cover Photo -Brooklands Lake - Dartfordwww.dartfordbusinessdirectory.co.uk

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THE DARTFORD HEDGEHOG PROJECT

BY SHANNON RANDALL 1st May - 7th May Know what this week is? Well, it’s National Hedgehog Awareness week of course! And what better way to celebrate than to speak to Laura Edie, a Green Party Councillor, runner of a litter picking group AND one of the founders of the Dartford Hedgehog Project.

What is the Dartford Hedgehog Project? “Our aim is to encourage local people to create safe gardens, allow access via hedgehog highways and provide food and shelter to play a part in protecting these vulnerable creatures.” This project came to be after a discussion with a friend about how rare it is nowadays to see Hedgehogs in the garden at night time. This led to some research which found that the British Hedgehog is sadly vulnerable to extinction.

you’re neatening other parts of your garden, “please take a moment to check through before cutting back, mowing or strimming. Hedgehogs are vulnerable to awful injuries this time of year, as they curl into a ball when they sense danger and can be hard to spot in long grass.”

3. “Providing nourishment is another key aim.

We have heard incredible stories of people seeing hedgehogs return to their gardens, after not having any around for 30 years, simply by making a small access hole in their fence and providing food!” She says that a small bowl of soft kitten food will do perfectly in addition to their natural diets.

4. Laura warns against buying food online labelled for Hedgehogs saying, “Sadly, wildlife food is currently completely unregulated and some unscrupulous companies sell pricey products labelled as “hedgehog food” that actually contain cheap ingredients that can cause a nutritional imbalance and a disease called metabolic bone disease.”

I asked Laura why this project was so important to her personally and her reply was, “The UK is one of the most nature depleted countries in the world. This means that a lot of species are now vulnerable to extinction. The decline in wildlife and climate change can be very overwhelming and feel completely out of our control. However, If you’re interested to hear more, the projects having a project like this gives empowerment to facebook group -@Dartford Hedgehog Projectindividuals.” is a great place to find out new information and keep up to date with them. “It’s lovely seeing The project aims to educate and acknowledge everyone getting involved on our FB group. It’s the community, but there are a few key been a pleasure getting to know people like takeaways that Laura highlighted.

Barbara, who has dedicated her garden to helping support hedgehogs” 1. The dangers of pesticides and The first event for the project was held in March slug pellets, “they this year to get the community involved and cause secondary excited to become more hedgehog (and eco) poisoning to not friendly. Many more to hopefully come, so look just hedgehogs out! but other wildlife and also enter Links to petitions, events, groups and more info! into the soil and www.facebook.com/groups/181385070796413/ waterways.” permalink/292668886334697/ https://petition. parliament.uk/petitions/608803 2. Make sure to encourage some The Newtown Wombles: wildness into your www.facebook.com/groups/1126668174450 garden through 686/?ref=share, Eco Gremlins: https://www. things such as facebook.com/groups/1156784521197003/?ref= longer grass share, and wildflowers.

Hedgehogs can Dartford Wildflower Network: use it for shelter and w w w . f a c e b o o k . c o m / 1 9 6 0 4 0 4 3 5 7 3 9 6 7 4 5 / food and it can also posts/3837848372985658/ encourage all sorts of other wildlife! But do be careful when www.dartfordbusinessdirectory.co.uk

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St.Anselms Parish Centre West Hill,Dartford Da1 2hj 5pm & 7pm Gillian 07957 135757 Baldwyns Park Baptist Church Dartford Road, Bexley Da5 2ay 5.30pm & 7pm Del 07975 541082 FRIDAYS Bexley Football Club Lesley Close, Bexley Da5 1lx 9am Del 07975 541082 SATURDAYS Christchurch Centre Kingswood Avenue, Swanley 8.45am David 07729 504636 Oakfield Primary Academy Oakfield Lane, Dartford Da1 2sw 8am & 10am Sarah 07739 027161

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HOW MANY SONG TITLES CAN YOU SEE?

By Clive Jenns

Hello! I heard it through the Grapevine that Valley Park Radio are calling all the heroes.

Here at Valley Park Radio we do not think that video killed the radio star, as we have been successfully broadcasting to the patients at Darent Valley Hospital since the year 3000 (well 2000 but that did not fit!) We broadcast 24 hours a day eight days a week via a mix of live shows and auto generated content. You can listen to the music via the radio at the hospital or online at either valleyparkradio.org.uk.,SHOUTcast.

Server (radio.st), or Valley Park Radio/Live Radio.

broadcasts at the local fetes and fayres.

Money, money, money. We are a registered charity and rely on fundraising. You can donate as an individual. Alternatively, if you are a local company you could sponsor one of our shows. Please call me (well email) at studio@ valleyparkradio.org.uk.Money that’s what I want and you can give it to us by shopping! When you are next shopping on Amazon go to www. smile.amazon.co.uk and search for Valley Park Radio. Amazon will then donate a percentage of your shop to us at no extra cost to you. It is We are run by a committed band of volunteers. money for nothing!

We do not talk about Bruno but we are always looking for volunteers. If you are thinking out If you recognised at least 10 of the song titles in loud, what can I do? to help! us. Well, we could this advert, congratulations you obviously know use somebody to help! fundraise or present your pop muzik. You really should one way or their own show. If presenting or fundraising is another contact us to help! not your thing, it would still please please me to hear from you as there are many other activities Thank you for your support and we hope to see that you can be involved with. or speak to you very soon.

If you just can’t get enough of Valley Park Radio, in the summertime look out for our outside

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An interview with Joe Pasquale What beeer anndote to Covid than a dose of one of the naaon’s favourite funny guys? But wait! What if you turbo-charged that prescrippon: one of the naaon’s favourite funny guys playing Frank Spencer! Returning to the role of the havoc-wreaking Frank, Joe Pasquale tells Vicky Edwards how he is once again embodying one of the greatest comic characters of all me.

A smash-hit on its debut tour four years ago, Joe Pasquale was all set to reprise his portrayal of Frank Spencer in the stage adaptaaon of the hit 70s TV show Some Mothers Do ‘Ave ‘Em when Covid arrived. But not even a pandemic can keep Joe - or Frank - from spreading laughter. With a beret firmly wedged on his bonce once more, Joe is looking forward to geeng back to what he describes as “the most enjoyable job I have ever done.”

“I “It’s a show for now because it makes everyone laugh. You see the whole audience like a Mexican wave, as one, leaning forward in laughter. It’s wonderful,” sighs Joe, who recalls belly laughing at the anncs of hapless Frank as a kid watching the original TV series.

But while Michael Crawford as Frank had the naaon chorusing ‘Ooh, Beey!’ Joe has made the role his own. “It’s my take on Frank, not on Michael doing Frank. Some of the physicality is there, but we’ve put my personality into it. It’s Joe-isms rather than Michael-isms.”

Based on an original story about Frank trying to get on a TV talent show, Joe loves that it’s a family-friendly show and credits director and writer Guy Unsworth with knowing inssnccvely how to ckle everyone’s funny bones. “He suggests the smallest change; a ny nuance to get the comedy out of a line, and he’s always right. This kid is a classic comedy anorak who really knows his stuff. He has rewriien the script and peppered it with more jokes. Most of the original cast are back for the new tour, which says a lot.”

Joined by Susie Blake as Mrs Fisher, Frank’s disapproving mother-in-law, Moray Treadwell as Mr Luscombe, James Paterson as Father O’Hara and Ben Watson as Desmond, playing his long-suffering wife Beey is Spamalot co-star Sarah Earnshaw. Also in the cast are Nick Wray and Alice Osmanski. “Susie is an experienced comic actress and she’s brilliant in the show. Sarah’s role is more difficult. She has to be sooer and more likable. The relaaonship we have on and off stage is built on trust and affeccon.”

As well as Some Mothers Joe constantly works on new comedy material, writes horror stories and is a talented arrst – a skill he has been known to incorporate into his stand-up act. “I am really aware of my mortality so you might as well live while you can,” he says, waving aside any suggesson that a long tour might be ring. “Touring in Some Mothers is a lot easier than my stand-up show. Then I usually do forty one-nighters. A week in one place is a holiday,” he beams, adding that there are certain places he is parrcularly looking forward to.

“I’m an Essex boy, so Darrord will be a great week. We took the show there before and the audience loved it. It’s brilliant to be returning.”

It all adds up to a show that is big on heart and rich in fabulously silly and blissfully uncomplicated joy. I’d advise you get those ckets booked.

Leave it too late and you might, as Frank might say, ‘have a bit of trouble.’

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SANDI TOKSVIG INTERVIEW NEXT SLIDE PLEASE...

SUN 8 MAY 2022

Sandi talks knitting, lockdown survival and why she’s desperate to get on the road again with her new live show Next Slide Please…

It won’t be a surprise to Sandi Toksvig fans that the polymath QI presenter owns an Encyclopaedia of Flintlock Weaponry and a tome titled Knitting with Dog Hair. “I collect books where I think, ‘Why would anybody publish that?’” she admits. “So you should never challenge me as chances are I will have a book about it.” A dozen or so such titles will crop up in her new stage show, Next Slide Please, among many other quite interesting topics.

Her first national tour since 2019’s National Trevor can’t come soon enough. “I want that sense of joy when we hear people laughing, meeting strangers, having a drink and just being glad to be out for the evening.” In National Trevor, prepandemic, she had “weirdly” focused on death and why we don’t talk about it enough… Her new show, Next Slide Please, will be about “having fun, being silly, doing jokes and enjoying ourselves”.

Phew. She also wants more chat than usual from the audience. “I want to hear what they have to say, I want people to feel they’re being heard.”

Toksvig is talking over Zoom from the house she and her therapist wife Debbie, her dog Mildred and her vast library have just moved into. Her family — which includes three children from her relationship with Peta Stewart, plus two grandchildren, all “fabulous” and clearly adored — are coming for lunch there at the weekend, and she couldn’t be more thrilled. She didn’t see them during the various lockdowns, just did video calls. “That was the most painful thing. That first lockdown Christmas without them was really hard. Much though I adore my wife, I missed the noise and raucous laughter of Christmas.”

But lockdown had an odd upside. She and Debbie would set out when it got dark for their allotted hour’s exercise: not just a simple walk but a Toksvig guided tour, street by street, of the totally deserted City of London. “We made it our business to learn 14

the history of every single street in the Square Mile.

I would bore Debbie with the information I had gathered— every street corner has something where you go, ‘I didn’t know that, that’s amazing.’

We loved it. Quite a nerdy thing to do.”

Did lockdown make us nicer and kinder too? Not really, she says, clarifying that she thinks the British were already a nice and kind nation before the virus arrived; now we just look out for these qualities and comment on them more.

She learned from the past two years how much she enjoys the simple things in life, explaining how she has started saying no to evenings out more, though will continue to lend time and support to the Women’s Equality Party and is visibly proud that the five candidates the WEP could afford to field in the 2016 general election, all survivors of sexual abuse, targeted five male MPs facing allegations of sexual impropriety, none of whom is sitting now. “We didn’t win the seats, but we won the battle.”

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For Next Slide Please she has been doing more research, ready for the tour. “It’s a ‘brown-sign tour’,” she explains. “Anywhere there is a stately home and a cup of tea.” Her schedule will be arranged so she can spend time at the local historic sites. But she will also devote part of the new show to the history of the town or city she is in and wants the audience to tell her what’s amazing about it. Her nocturnal City walks have taught her every inch of a place comes with a story attached. She wants people to see she’s made “the best effort I can, I’ve been doing my homework”.

There is something endearingly old-school decent about Toksvig, which is part of her appeal as a performer. You can tell she doesn’t love doing interviews as they are all about her, “which is boring, and bad manners”. And she is like a model Victorian in her industriousness. Asked which television series she binged during lockdown, the answer is: none. She confesses readily that she doesn’t watch much TV. Her off-duty hours, when not spent reading, are filled with making things — weaving, craft projects, embroidery, woodwork, knitting. (She will occasionally do the latter with the 10pm news on, she admits, having just knitted a doll for her granddaughter that way.) And she knits with wool, not dog hair.

How on earth does she find the time for all those projects, alongside her programme-making, writing, and performing? “That’s what I do when other people are binging on box sets”…” Touché!

Does she ever think about slowing down or even giving up? She admits she has a “fantasy” — and stresses that’s all it is — of becoming a teacher in a New England liberal arts college, “wearing a slightly shabby sweater and looking a little bit vague and sitting around discussing Catcher in the Rye or some other great piece of writing”. She loves talking to people younger than her, she says.

“But I’m fully booked, dahling, for the next year.”

And besides, she finds the world too interesting.

“Every turn of every page I learn something…” She starts to giggle at the memory of an Extraordinary Escapes episode she had completed for season two of the Channel 4 series. “Even taking a gongbath with Sarah Millican. Not a good idea, it made us laugh too much…” A gong-bath? “You lie in the woods, and somebody plays a gong.”

She isn’t done with “something new”, she insists: “NEXT SLIDE PLEASE will be full of new discoveries, new adventures, new ideas. Otherwise you become a dinosaur.” Curiosity is key, her top recommendation to her fellow humans. “Don’t be certain of too much. I am challenging people to have their answers questioned.”

Sandi Toksvig Live! Next Slide Please... takes place at The Orchard Theatre, Dartford, on Sunday 8th May 2022 at 7:30PM. Book your tickets now at https://orchardtheatre.co.uk/

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Dartford Grammar School is hosting a Reunion for all Old Dartfordians on May 21st 2022 after two years of delay to the last scheduled event due to Covid restrictions. Founded in 1576, the school has a rich history and an active and engaged community of former students, but the alumni team is keen to find any ‘lost’ members and is reaching out to readers of Dartford Living for help in tracking them down.

Jill Hawkins, Development Officer for the School, is keenly aware that there are gaps in the School’s database of Old Dartfordians and she is keen to address this. ‘Aside from trying to find Old Dartfordians themselves with whom we have lost contact, we recognise that many of our former pupils will have moved away from the area, so we appeal to parents and carers

and even grandparents who are still living nearby to help us by suggesting those ODs simply get in touch with us.’

Details of the Reunion can be found on the School’s website, and anyone keen to attend who has not yet registered interest should simply email alumni@dartfordgrammarschool. org.uk. All will be very welcome!

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HOSPICE SOWS THE SEEDS FOR A NEW THERAPY SESSION “One of the things we’ve all missed in recent years is the great outdoors, and we’re really hoping that the Green Shoots group will allow us to get back in touch with nature again.

Coming together and using gardening, plants and horticulture can really help people develop personally and socially, whilst also gaining confidence, independence and a sense of wellbeing. Or it’s just a great opportunity to get your hands dirty! Either way, we can guarantee it will be a lot of fun.” – Andrew Lowden, ellenor Operational Wellbeing Lead.

taking cuttings, as well as activities like flower pressing and a regular houseplant surgery.

Katie said: “We will be having fun identifying plants and other interesting items brought in from the garden and country walks. In fact, I’m hoping people will treat part of the session a bit like a show and tell, so we can all share thoughts and ideas and each other’s experiences.”

Most of the activities will be indoors so that the class is accessible to all, but there will be some opportunity to explore the hospice garden.

Spring is the perfect time of year for hospice charity ellenor to launch a green-fingered therapy which encourages patients and their families to embrace nature.

Katie said: “In an ideal world, we would all be outside for large chunks of each day getting fresh air and communicating with the natural world around us. But modern life means this is seldom the norm for most people. And people Horticultural therapist Katie Gardner is now who are unwell, elderly or caring for a loved one visiting the Northfleet hospice every week to are even less likely to get out and about. pass on her love of plants and the natural world around us. The sessions are open to everyone – “That’s why it’s even more important to bring patients, families, the bereaved and members nature indoors, especially for people who have of the community. been keen gardeners or worked outdoors in the past, or maybe enjoyed long country walks.”

Katie said: “Feeling at one with nature is relaxing During the Covid pandemic the importance of and mindful. If you have ever grown an orchid on enjoying our natural world has been particularly your windowsill or fed the birds in your garden, important – for both mental and physical you will know how good that feels. So, when you health. The benefits of horticultural therapy are are feeling poorly, stressed or lonely, it is even becoming widely recognised and some doctors more important to take some time out to tend even now prescribe it for patients with milder to a plant or find out about the little creatures forms of depression and minor health problems. that inhabit our open spaces and the insects Katie said: “Horticultural therapy aims to which help pollinate our flowers and fruit.” improve both physical and mental wellbeing.

Therapists like me help people get involved in The Green Shoots sessions will suit all abilities gardening and the natural world as a way to and involve planting bulbs and seeds and boost their confidence. We introduce them to 18

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new skills and often teach them things they never knew. Plants and nature are fascinating -- and often surprising.”

Katie has more than 10 years’ experience as a jobbing gardener, is RHS trained, and has completed a course with horticultural therapy charity Thrive. She also walks her 10-year-old terrier Doris daily, foraging and taking photos.

She said: “I volunteered a few years ago with ellenor’s old Green Shoots gardening group, and then I went on to hold horticultural therapy classes at two residential homes for the elderly.

Of course, the pandemic meant these sorts of sessions had to be abandoned, so I’m very happy that the restrictions have been lifted now and that ellenor’s head of wellbeing Andy Lowden has been able to secure funding for such an important therapy.

“I’m

also

hoping

the

upcoming

redevelopment plans will include a therapy garden and that I can be part of developing that, along with people who attend the Green Shoots group. The hospice already has a lovely garden but there are plans to create something even more user friendly and kinder to the environment, somewhere where touch and smell are just as important as wielding a big spade.”

• The Green Shoots therapy sessions are held weekly from 1.30-2.45pm. There is no need to book, and the sessions are open to all.

• If you have any plastic pots, small gardening tools or gloves, seeds, bulbs, gardening magazines or compost you would like to donate, please email andrew.lowden@ ellenor.org.

hospice

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19

by Harden Holidays We were fortunate in mid-April to attend the launch event where Ambassador Cruise Line officially named their first ship, Ambience, with godmother Sally Gunnell OBE. The former British athlete and Olympian named the first ship in Ambassador’s fleet at a special ceremony at London Tilbury on Tuesday 19th April 2022.

Ambassador is the first British cruise line to launch in over a decade. Sailing from London Tilbury, the no-fly itineraries provide a premium-value, authentic cruise experience predominantly aimed at the 50-plus traveller.

Over 500 guests, partners and suppliers were on board to witness the naming and blessing of the ship, indulge in a celebratory nine-course meal including Ambassador’s signature “Baked Alaska” parade, and dance the night away at various entertainment venues across the ship.

CEO, Christian Verhounig said, “Nearly 25 years ago on this day, I joined my first cruise ship as a bar waiter. While I instantly fell in love with the cruise industry, I could never have imagined that one day I would be the CEO of a brand-new cruise line and witness the naming its first ship.

Launching a cruise line during the pandemic shows our belief in and commitment to the cruise and travel industry. Sustainability is also important to us. We have invested significant amounts into upgrading Ambience, including making the ship IMO Tier III compliant, making it possible for Ambience to sail in the most environmentally protected areas around the world”.

Godmother Sally Gunnell said, “It is an absolute pleasure to be godmother for Ambassador Cruise Line’s first ship, Ambience. Ambassador celebrates its first anniversary this month and since its launch in 2021, has firmly established itself in the cruise industry. Ambassador has a collection of brand values that I too strongly believe in, from community and wellbeing to being sustainable and ethical. This commitment demonstrates that Ambassador is a responsible cruise line and one 20

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that I’m extremely honoured to be working with.”

Ambience’s first season includes 31 sailings calling at over 90 different ports. Itineraries include its fournight maiden voyage to Hamburg. Subsequent itineraries include exploring the British Isles, the Norwegian Fjords, The Nordics, Greenland, the Arctic, and Iceland, plus several short break cruises.

For the winter months, a range of exploration style voyages will sail to the Canaries, Cuba, the Caribbean, Cape Verde, and Scandinavia.

a classical pianist and violinist providing musical accompaniment to the many conversations taking place. You could tell it would be a lovely spot to pass some time with the new friends you make on-board.

The Observatory was wonderful entertainment area that occupied the distinctive domed section at the forefront of the ship. The décor was much darker and full of dark velvet and plush cushioning.

Perfect for dancing the night away and enjoying Ambience has an average guest capacity of 1,400 a cocktail or two, it looked like a fantastic afterand with careful configuration offers a feeling of dinner space. spaciousness whilst retaining a sense of intimacy.

We felt the ship had been through an extensive Overall, we were really impressed with Ambassador refit, and whilst a few areas had a little work Cruises as a new cruise line to the market. We know remaining, you could tell just how enjoyable a that being able to embark at Tilbury is wonderfully cruise on the Ambience would be. There were a convenient for local cruisers. So, if you’re looking few public areas that really impressed us, most for an intimate and traditional cruising experience notably the Botanical Lounge and the Observatory. then come and see us in Dartford town centre The Botanical Lounge was a light and airy space and we can guide you through everything the in the middle of the ship that felt perfect for an UK’s newest cruise line has to offer. afternoon tea. Whilst we were passing by there was

Dartford Town Centre www.hardenholidays.co.uk 0800 023 8974 www.dartfordbusinessdirectory.co.uk

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PLAY UNLIMITED GOLF FOR A YEAR FOR £26 PER MONTH (£312 per annum) Senior and junior rates also available.

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23

DARTFORD GIVING

sign up to a session then you need to attend, as the events cannot go ahead without the required number of volunteers.

By Kate Hargreaves

NEW YORKERS

This month I’m promoting volunteering at New Yorkers – a fun Dartford-based social club for adults with learning difficulties, where you will be able to immediately see the positive impact you’re making.

“What would I get out of it?” Volunteering at New Yorkers is guaranteed to put a smile on your face and make you forget your worries. You get to have a fun evening with the members whilst also giving the members’ carers some muchneeded respite time. The volunteers really are invaluable, as otherwise there would be no New Yorkers Club. Many of the volunteers have been helping out for a number of years and are ready to “retire”, so new volunteers would be really appreciated.

“Are there any requirements?” Volunteers will be CRB checked due to spending time with vulnerable people, but otherwise all you need is enthusiasm.

“Anything else I need to know?” New Yorkers is really valued by the members and their carers, and is often oversubscribed with a waiting list, as there are very few places in the area that these people can go that is a safe environment to socialise and make new friends. New Yorkers receives no funding and relies solely on New Yorkers Club volunteer donations and members raising funds; and any “What is it?” New Yorkers meet on a Tuesday money raised is spent entirely on the members night from 7-9pm at Hubert House (near as there are no administration costs or paid Temple Hill), which is organised and supervised staff. by a group of volunteers, of which you could be one! New Yorkers’ members are typically a very “This sounds great, how do I get involved?” If friendly, fun-loving bunch who love getting to you would like to know more or would like to go know new people. along one Tuesday night to see what the fuss is about, call Christine on 01474 813368, and you’ll “Would I enjoy it?” The activities that take place be guaranteed a very warm welcome from New at the Tuesday night sessions range from Yorkers! craft making to karaoke, quizzes to discos. The members often put on shows, inviting families, As always, if you have any questions about New friends and the local community to attend, Yorkers or any other volunteering role, feel free with Grease, Wizard of Oz and Mamma Mia to email me at kate@dartfordliving.com. Happy being recent years’ productions. You don’t need volunteering! expertise in any of these areas to volunteer, you just need to be willing to get involved and chat with the members.

“How much time do I need for it?” Being able to give two hours on a Tuesday night (with breaks aligning with school holidays) is the minimum.

There are also a number of other activities and trips that occur throughout the year, such as a day out at the seaside and seeing a show at the Orchard Theatre. Whilst full attendance at Tuesday night sessions and other events is not compulsory, you do need to be reliable – if you 24

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3 Fantastic entertainers shows coming to town

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25

LIFE UNDER THE STAIRS

By Jane Stevenson

like tendency rears its head. I was privileged to attend the first UK showing of the original Star Wars, way back in 1977. It was a game changer Hi all in terms of special effects and originality. More to the point, it made sci fi exciting and sexy. I’m Today I’m sitting here listening to calming music sure there are many ladies who would have while writing. gladly fought alongside Han Solo! Ditto the Star Trek reboot – I’ve watched it so many times I I play ambient music when working; I enjoy the can manage a few words of Klingon! sound of airy, light as fluff sounds that don’t need too much concentration. It’s wallpaper for Oddly enough, Titanic left me cold. I thought it the ears. Life is good. I could never write anything was beautifully made but strangely boring. It sensible while listening to ‘Highway To Hell’ or was an indication according to statistics that ‘Gods of Love’. Too much air guitar (performed 22%.of women prefer a quick fix of action heroes in the privacy of my study), mum dancing and rather than a thoughtful sitcom such as ‘Call the general tuneless singing.

Midwife’.

UNLADYLIKE WOMEN …

I use the same yardstick for films. I want to be entertained. I don’t want to have my conscience pricked or go home subdued by some sad or traumatic story. I have my list of actors who fit the bill, so contentedly watch Jason Statham, Gerard Butler, Chris Pratt or similar. I’ll encounter a great deal of bad language, gunfire, the occasional dinosaur and some nifty martial arts. In Statham’s case there is also a fairly masculine five o’clock shadow sharing centre stage! I don’t have to think about them after the film. They saved the world, got the girl and life carries on.

Any further thought of this small group of ladies, was dismissed when a friend put forward the idea that as we all know what happened to the real ship any attempt to romanticise the event detracts from the huge loss of life. I’ve only ever seen clips from the film and in my opinion, with its rather clunky CGI, Titanic looks dated today.

To a lesser extent, my tastes are similar for TV. I don’t watch soaps; they require a commitment to a storyline for weeks and are frequently angst ridden and gloomy. I prefer something immediate that amuses, entertains, and fulfils for a few hours. Anything with a good, standI take a lot of ridicule for this approach to alone story, colour, glossy production values, entertainment. I can get so drawn into a and a reasonable soundtrack ticks the boxes. fantasy film such as Lord of the Rings, my elf 26

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I thought my personal entertainment appears to include my choice of reading: I have certain favourite books I return to again and again. It might be months or sometime years between each reading, but they are like old friends, I’m comfortable with them, even when I know the outcomes. Ann Cleeves, Arthur Conan Doyle, Paul Finch and Mark Billingham are tucked away on my bookshelf, a little worn and much loved. I note as well, that these are all a similar genre to my film viewing.

From my choices I would appear to fall into the 22% of women who actively seek out a quick fix from an action genre be it visual, audio, or literary. We don’t ‘do’ romantic comedy, or media which is aimed at women in general.

I’m quite pleased there are a groups of women who share my passion for the unladylike. It makes me feel part of a private club. Ladies, please feel free to join!

Take care people, stay safe

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27

WALKING WITH THE DARTS

by Chris Palmer,

Men’s team photos by Carol White-Griffiths, Women’s` Taur Everard

Hello again, welcome to another edition of Walking With The Darts, a monthly update on all things related to Dartford FC, courtesy of Dartford Living Magazine.

Gallagher Stadium side. Fireworks are certainly expected for what will arguably be the game of the season, as the two rivals battle it out at Bericote Powerhouse Princes Park.

In other news, the Darts’ defence of the Kent Senior Cup continues, as they came away from Margate FC with a 4-2 win. Goals from Luke Allen, Kalvin Kalala, Ade Azeez, and Ody Alfa secured the victory against a spirited Margate side under the floodlights. The Darts will now travel to local rivals, Welling United, for bragging rights in the final, where the victor will face either Hythe Town or Folkestone Invicta. The date for the semi-final has yet to be confirmed, so be sure to keep a watch on Dartford’s social media sites and the Walking With The Darts Facebook page.

Meanwhile, Connor Dymond’s Ladies side has been equally as busy and successful, both on and off the pitch.

We are now fully engrossed in the closing stages of the National League South. And, at the time of writing this piece, Dartford currently sit in third place of the table having played 35 matches.

The ladies have reached two cup finals in what is proving to be a prolific footballing season for them. They travel to Maidstone United’s Gallagher Stadium on the 5th of May, where they’ll take on National League side Gillingham Women FC in Steve King’s side are on a good run, which has the Kent Cup Final. This is a cup competition that seen them unbeaten in the last seven games in Connor’s side has grown to adore, and they’ll be all competitions. Good Friday’s 2-0 victory away doing everything possible to retain the trophy. at Billericay Town also ensured that Tom Bonner and Co are guaranteed a playoff place come They have also reached the League Cup Final, after the end of April. beating an extremely difficult Millwall Lionesses side in emphatic fashion. The reward for such However, with five games still to play, the players a feat is a final against Hackney Ladies at Cray certainly won’t be settling for that. Catching second Valley PM’s ground on the 8th of May. placed Dorking Wanderers is a definite priority, whilst there’s still a mathematical possibility of All relevant information and tickets can be found/ catching league leaders Maidstone United as purchased via the official Dartford FC website. well. That latter task comes to a head on Easter So, make sure you’re there to support the ladies Bank Holiday Monday, where Dartford host the in both finals.

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this to say: “Everyone involved with Dartford FC are very saddened to hear of the passing of long term supporter Sharon Thomas after a short illness in hospital. Our love and thoughts are with her family and friends at this very sad time.”

“It is with great sadness that we heard the devastating news our Leyla Latif passed away suddenly. Leyla, as most of you would agree, was a very caring person and was very proud of all our football achievements. Leyla would constantly give encouragement, not forgetting that Leyla would stand up for us on the sidelines, and would say she always had our backs! Leyla will always be Off the pitch, in the semi-final against Millwall, in our thoughts and hearts. both teams came together to share their support for @kickitout and their work to tackle racism and “Let’s all now come together and celebrate Leyla’s discrimination in football. Dartford had this to say life and her personal achievements. Our thoughts and prayers go out to her family and friends.” about @kickitout: As far as the league is concerned, Connor’s side can still finish in second place, but must win their next game and increase their goal difference. They’re also relying on Fulham FC Women slipping up, as they have a better goal difference in comparison to the Darts. So, it’s all to play for!

“Both teams want to open up conversations about what @kickitout does, and take responsibility for what we need to do as a team to educate ourselves about things we might overlook, or simply not be aware of because of the society we’ve grown up in.

I’ll finish this month by just saying a huge thank you to both Sharon Thomas and Leyla Latif. May you both rest in peace, and may all friends and families find comfort and peace in the knowledge that their memories will live on throughout the club.

“We want the (almost) 40 mascots we had at the game for both teams and others growing up in the world of football to feel fully included, have equal access to opportunities, and continue taking this work forward too.

“We’re planning our next session with @kickitout and will keep sharing what we’re learning.”

Finally, some sad news involving both Dartford and Dartford Women… Long-term supporter, Sharon Thomas, sadly passed away after a short illness in hospital recently, and Dartford Women’s Leyla Latif also passed away suddenly. Both sides, had

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29

DARTFORD’S MARKETS

DARTFORD’S THURSDAY AND SATURDAY MARKETS OFFER A GREAT SELECTION OF PRODUCTS FROM FRESH FRUIT & VEG TO CLOTHES AND ACCESSORIES, ALL AT VALUE FOR MONEY PRICES FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT

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www.dartford.gov.uk/events Dartford Together

welovedartford

Free concerts ON sundays, 2pm-4pm the bandstand in Central Park 24 Apr Bromley Concert Band

26 Jun Peninsula Big Band

1 May Dartford Concert Band

3 Jul UK Paper Band Sittingbourne

8 May Second Wind Concert Band

10 Jul Emeralds Steel Band

15 May Rock Choir

24 Jul Gravesend Borough Band

22 May TO BE CONFIRMED

31 Jul Bacchus Wind Orchestra

29 May Tilbury Band (Children’s Concert)

7 Aug Kent Police Band

5 Jun The Heroes Band

14 Aug Invicta Jazz Orchestra

12 Jun East Peckham Silver Band

21 Aug East Grinstead Concert Band

19 Jun Orpington Band

28 Aug Medway Concert Band

Free parking at Acacia on sundays, DA11DJ. Bring a picnic or visit the Cafe, grab a free deckchair and listen to the band.

It’s a perfect family-friendly Sunday in the park.

Jeremy Kite MBE Leader of the Council

www.dartford.gov.uk/events Performances maybe subject to change Performances maybe subject to change

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31

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SENIOR SNIPPETS

By Christina Uppenkamp - Home Instead

Welcome to the latest edition of Senior Snippets: the monthly advisory column with the older members of our community in mind, brought to you by Christina Uppenkamp, Director of Home Instead Dartford.

Gardening can be a great activity. It’s satisfying, productive and a very good way to stay active and get some fresh air. Age can make some tasks harder, but here are some top tips on how to make gardening a safe and fun activity no matter what your age.

Build raised beds- Raised beds make gardening easier if you struggle to stretch or bend down to the plants. They are much easier to weed and maintain as you can perch on the side and use a trowel to plant and weed.

Try container gardening- This is essentially planting into a pot or a container of your choice.

This is beneficial as you can place the garden virtually anywhere so that it’s easily accessible.

Remember to use light weight containers for extra easy handling.

a stool or chair to save your legs from having to squat or sit down.

Work within your limits and enjoy- Only take on what you can manage. If a whole plot is too much, go for half a plot. Make sure you stretch and swap around activities, for example a bit of digging, a bit of watering, a bit of pruning. Most importantly, have fun!

By following these top tips, you will be able to do your gardening safely and effectively.

I welcome any suggestions for future topics from you all. All you have to do is write to me at c.uppenkamp@dartford.homeinstead.co.uk or by post to St Fidelis House, St Fidelis Road, Erith, DA8 1AT.

Pick your plants carefully- Choosing plants that are easy to maintain and able to withstand a variety of conditions is essential for an easy gardening experience. This ultimately makes gardening less strenuous overall. Onions and shallots are very low maintenance. Other easy to grow crops are spring onions, broad beans, and carrots. If your soil is poor try growing hardy crops such as rosemary, sage, or thyme.

Path surfaces- Look at the surface of paths to check they don’t get slippery at any time of the year. Wood can also get slippery so keep an eye on decking, and algae and moss are dangers too.

Use the right equipment- Long-handled tools such as forks and spades will mean less digging, and use tools that are lightweight to prevent arm, shoulder, and back injuries. You can also use www.dartfordbusinessdirectory.co.uk

35

FITNESS: TRAINING IS ONLY 5% OF FAT LOSS

And we need WATER. Good old water. Not tea, coffee, alcohol, fizzy drinks, juices, pills, powders or potions.

If Ok, so 5% isn’t an exact statistic, but the point you don’t drink is training, whilst VERY important, isn’t the whole enough water, answer to fat loss. you can wave goodbye to health and fat loss! It’ll be a long, Please don’t take that as an excuse not to slow, painful and frustrating process. exercise, it’s 100% necessary and shouldn’t be skipped. Losing weight through Diet alone will Having been helping people to lose body fat lead to more muscle loss and less fat loss – not and get fitter for nearly 20 years, I really can tell the healthy, toned look people are after, and a you that these lifestyle factors are the keys to loss of strength and muscle is not what anyone success. should be aiming for.

Whilst the training side of things is a bit more We don’t train to burn calories, we train to involved and best suited to One-to-One or stimulate the muscles and tell your body to Online Coaching, the lifestyle factors are keep hold of them – which shifts the body more absolutely things you can (and have to) change in favour of burning fat for fuel, rather than yourself, with a bit of guidance and direction. muscle tissue.

That’s why I wrote The “No Diet” Fat Loss Blueprint.

There’ll always be a bit of both, but the more we It lays out what I think are the 9 most important can tip the scales in favour of fat loss the better, habits you can incorporate into your life that will and THAT’S why we need to train. give the biggest “bang for your buck” and really accelerate your results.

So how do we lose body fat?

Of course there’s more, it’s a never-ending Lifestyle. process that we should all be working on throughout our lives, and our bodies change as The key to successful fat loss (not temporary we do and as we age. “weight” loss) is health.

But… We need to eat nutritious foods, and eat enough of them – starving isn’t an option.

If you get the fundamentals in place, they apply forever. If you can constantly aim to work on We need to stay as active as possible throughout and improve on the 9 habits, you’ll never need the day – your “10,000 steps” is a good starting to “Diet” again, and you should definitely feel point, but regular movement is important. Take better and enjoy better health. regular breaks from sitting to move your body for a couple of minutes. If you work at a desk or The further you are from these 9 habits now, the drive a lot, this is even more important. more you’ll benefit from them.

We need to take/make time to de-stress. Call it what you want, meditation, sitting, just take some time to relax. Have a bath, sit and listen to some relaxing music. Just sit. No phones, no screens, no distractions.

If you’d like to check out The “No Diet” Fat Loss Blueprint, you can access it via my website. It’s a small but life-changing investment!

And as always, if you’d like my help, just book in for a quick call or message me and we can If you have a busy house, you just need to MAKE the time to sit for a minute. Even if it is just a chat :) minute or two, take that time to relax. Maybe aim for 20 minutes once everyone’s gone to bed, before you watch mind-numbing TV, or turn the TV off 20 minutes earlier and do it then, before you go to bed (there’s huge benefit to Mark www.MBonlinePT.com @MarkBroadbentPT turning off screens before bedtime).

We also need adequate, good quality sleep for our bodies to repair and grow and for optimal health (which leads to fat loss remember).

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Rock Painting in Dartford.

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

By Maria Kingsford

ere are some great photos of their painted rocks.

Local people from ‘Dartford painted rocks’ on Facebook have been busy this month painting and hiding them around the town. The rocks can be exchanged at Stephen Oliver: Studio and Gallery located at the Orchards Shopping Centre .

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

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37

FESTIVAL OF THE LANDSCAPE

FE ST IVAL OF T HE L AN D S C A P E

DA RENT VA L L EY

1st May to 30th June 2022 Events, Workshops and Activities Across the Darent Valley area This Spring, the Darent Valley Landscape Partnership Scheme will be bringing you the Festival of the Landscape, an event-packed celebration of everything that the Darent Valley has to offer!

From exploring Tudor and Roman finds with our archaeologist, touring the ancient trees painted by Samuel Palmer, guided walks with Kent Wildlife Trust, w ildlife activities for families and walk and draw workshops for adults to large-scale outdoor puppetry performances at Otford and Dartford with Puppets with Guts and much more - there will be something for everyone to enjoy.

Dartford residents may be particularly interested in taking part in an arts-based landscape workshop. This free workshop, created for adults in the Darent Valley area, will enable you to discover your local landscape’s colour palette. The workshop will be run by a professional artist, who will guide you through how to ReFRAME your environment and create a Darent Valley picture frame. The workshop is 3 hours long and will be taking place at Temple Hill Community Centre, Dartford on 17 th May.

For families, Gnomus, a giant puppet, will be putting on a show at Central Park as part of the jubilee celebration on 29 th May and must be seen to be believed. And for some half ter m fun, why not come along to Enchanted Woodland Scavenger Hunt on 30th May or take part in a Forest Club on Ecology Island on 3rd June Other activities include Mindfulness Walk around Central Park and numerous other events throughout the valley.

For the full programme and to book, please scan the QR code or visit: https://darentvalley.org.uk/get-involved/events/ 38

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FESTIVAL OF THE LANDSCAPE DA RE NT VA LL EY

Interim manager Ralf Rangnick claims that Manchester United will not repeat rival Sporting events in May include: Liverpool’s 30-year spell without a league title, even though they have not won the Premier 14 May - Football - FA Cup final, Wembley League since 2013, and have been nowhere near the title race all season.

15 May - Football - Women’s FA Cup final, Wembley While Liverpool are chasing an unprecedented quadruple (at time of writing), United’s only 19-22 May - Golf - US PGA, Southern Hills Country challenge is to finish in the top four. There Club, Oklahoma clearly needs to be a rebuild for the future at Manchester United, and the Ajax boss Erik 22 May - 5 Jun - Tennis- French Open- Paris Ten Hag’s appointment as the latest man to attempt to end United’s sorry run is a good 28 May - Football - Champions League final, brick in that rebuild. However, there is so much Paris malaise at Manchester United, that it will take much time and more patience before they are able to compete again for the title. I am not sure whether the fans and hierarchy have the stomach for the wait, so I would not be surprised if the managerial merry-go-round continued.

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39

HAY FEVER - ALL THE BASICS...

By Dr Julie Taylor Hay fever, or seasonal rhinitis, is a common allergy that affects people from February to September. It affects 10-15% of children and as many as 1 in 4 adults.

Grass pollen is the most common cause of hay fever, affecting people from May to June. Tree pollen (February to June), especially birch pollen, and weed pollen (June to September) can also cause hayfever symptoms.

The symptoms of hay fever include: • Sneezing • Itchy nose/palate/throat • Blocked or runny nose • Red, itchy or watery eyes • Post nasal drip • Cough • Sinus inflammation • Wheezing, tight chest, breathlessness or worsening of asthma symptoms These are caused by the body responding to harmless allergens (eg pollen), releasing mediators such as histamine in the nose, eyes or airways.

These mediators cause the symptoms described above. It is the same process for other airborne allergens, such as dust mites, moulds and animal dander.

Do I need a test?

For most allergies, the history of when and where symptoms occur helps us to identify the cause. The first step would be to keep a diary. If the cause is not clear then tests blood tests for specific allergen IgE or skin prick tests can be done. We still need to have an idea of the cause as there are many thousands of allegens that can be tested for.

Isn’t hayfever just a minor issue?

Hayfever has a huge impact on quality of life.

It impacts on sleep and affects the ability to concentrate and carry out tasks. If you are a teenager, May-June is the time of important exams and hayfever has been shown to affect exam performance. It can also trigger asthma symptoms – if rhinitis is controlled, people find their asthma is often better.

How do I manage hayfever?

The first step in managing any allergy is to avoid the allergen that causes it. The following steps 40

can help to reduce exposure: • The main route of entry is through the nose, so using an allergy balm or Vaseline around the nostrils and/or a saline nasal rinse can help • Stay indoors when pollen counts are high (usually warm dry days) • When indoors, keep the doors and windows shut, especially in the early morning and evenings • If you must go outside, wear wrap-around sunglasses • When pollen count is high, shower and wash your hair when you arrive home • Avoid drying clothes and bed linen outside when the pollen count is high • Pets can carry pollen on their fur, wipe them down with a damp microfibre cloth if they have been outside • Limit time in rural areas, escape to the coast Medications that can help • For some people, who have mild symptoms of sneezing or an itchy runny nose, antihistamines are enough. It is recommended that you use one that you take once daily and doesn’t make you drowsy.

• If symptoms are more severe or you have a blocked nose, a nasal steroid spray can help.

• Eye symptom are often controlled with antihistamines and nasal steroid sprays, but you can also buy eye drops from a pharmacy.

Your local pharmacist can advise on all of the above treatments. You should start using treatment around 2 weeks before the ‘season’ starts and take them every day. Stopping and starting is less effective.

See your GP if your symptoms aren’t controlled with the measures of treatments above. Allergyuk. org is a useful website for information on all types of allergies.

DR JULIE TAYLOR IS A GP PARTNER AT THE WELLCOME PRACTICE DARTFORD, CLINICAL DIRECTOR OF DARTFORD MODEL PCN AND A BOARD MEMBER OF THE DARTFORD, SWANLEY AND GRAVESHAM INTEGRATED CARE PARTNERSHIP.

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local area and wildlife in their daily outdoor trips.

We achieved Ofsted Outstanding in our former location so are very much looking forward to showing off our beautiful new site in Stone and celebrating our child-centred approach at our The Chapel of St Luke in the village of Stone near next inspection visit.”

Dartford has been transformed into a unique place for young children after the awardwinning KatieB Kids nursery and School for Early Years relocated to the site from Dartford town KatieB Kids was founded in 2014 by Bexley mum centre. of three, Katie Ballard, and was borne from her ‘KatieB Kids’ has breathed new life into the passion to provide exceptional standards of previously vacant site, creating a ‘daytime excellence in Early Years education. family’ for children aged from 3 months up to 5 years. The building, which had most recently As a working-mum, Katie created the Nursery been used as office space, is now home to an exciting range of child-led learning, including and School of Early Years so that she could baby yoga, imaginative play, children’s atelier return to work knowing that her own children woodwork studio, science, creative craft and were being given the love, care and attention hands-on cookery classes. that they would get at home, in a creative and The foundation of the progressive curriculum natural environment, supported by outstanding is the internationally acclaimed educational educational expertise and forward-thinking philosophy of Reggio Emilia, drawing on aspects learning. of Montessori, Forest School and Heuristic play.

Founder and local mum of 3, Katie Ballard, said: The nursery was originally in Dartford town centre, where in 2018 it achieved Outstanding “We’re really delighted to be in Stone and feel Ofsted rating. we have truly ‘come home’. It’s wonderful www.katiebkids.co.uk watching the reactions of our children, enjoying their new creative space and discovering the www.dartfordbusinessdirectory.co.uk

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FULLY OPEN FOR DINING IN Our convenient location in the town centre means you’re never too far from savouring one of our chef’s specials or platters, made with the freshest ingredients and cooked to absolute perfection. We’ve been cooking up a storm since 1974

SUNDAY TO WEDNESDAY 12PM TO 10PM THURSDAY TO SATURDAY 12PM TO 11PM WWW.EFESDARTFORD.CO.UK | (01322) 471458 42

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PAYROLL FOR BUSINESS: YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED

BY BLUE ROCKET ACCOUNTING legislation or regulations as accounting experts should handle it all for you.

Can I run payroll myself?

Yes, you can run payroll yourself although due to its complexities and time-consuming nature we advise using a payroll service through your accountant.

Blue Rocket Accounting are a trusted, professional team of accountants based in Dartford serving businesses across Kent. Here are some of their responses to frequently asked questions from local business owners regarding payroll for their employees.

What is payroll and what does it involve?

If you’re growing your business from the ground up, it’s inevitable that you’ll eventually take on extra pairs of hands when things get busy. And if you hire new people you’ll need to pay them this is where payroll comes in.

Payroll is the process of paying employees and making a record of the amount of money an employee has made over time.

Payroll is essential in any business in which people are employed to work. Payroll is needed to: • Calculate how much your employees need to be paid • Calculate how much tax and NIC you need to deduct from an employee’s gross pay • Report employee pay details to HMRC • And most importantly, pay your employees!

If you’re in the process of registering yourself as an employer, the UK government website can help you get started.

How much does it cost for payroll services?

Our prices start at £15 per month + VAT for the first employee, then £4 +VAT for each employee thereafter. These prices will differ depending on fixed salary or variable salary and frequency of payroll. For an accurate quote please contact us directly.

Whilst it’s important to consider how much it will cost outsourcing your payroll services, it’s also worth understanding how much it will save you. The value of expert knowledge, the latest software, regular training, risk reduction and pre-empting penalties will give you peace of mind that your payroll is in safe hands. To get a quote tailored to your business, please get in touch.

Blue Rocket Accounting Payroll Service Our payroll service is tailored to the size and needs of your business and will guarantee that you are protected from continually changing Government legislation. We will also advise on opportunities to reduce your PAYE bill.

If you have a payroll system in place but would like it to be reviewed to ensure it’s compliant and setup correctly, we can help.

If you’d like to talk to one of our friendly team about your payroll requirements, call us on 01322 555442 or email happytohelp@ bluerocketaccounting.com

Why should I use a payroll service?

Many companies use payroll services so they can focus on other key areas of their business such as sales, business development and growth. Outsourcing payroll can save precious time being swallowed up by a complex and time-consuming numbers process. In-house payroll services can be costly and that’s why many opt for payroll experts such as the Blue Rocket Accounting team to take it on instead.

This saves the business money as well as time.

When using a payroll package service, you won’t have to worry about compliance, changing www.dartfordbusinessdirectory.co.uk

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In this month’s article we look at new versions to the SUV electric market coming out this year and next.

which mirrors the Niro HEV’s trim levels but will have a more powerful output to 180bhp and the battery upgraded to give an electric range of 40 miles – 10 more than the current version.

Available in the Autumn of 2022 prices will start from £27,745 (HEV) and £32,775 (PHEV).

2022 Lexus RZ electric SUV– this is the new Lexus RZ electric SUV features a steering device straight out of science fiction, advanced safety kit and a competitive range. This fully electric model will have a steering wheel reminiscent of KITT from Knight Rider and a system with a driver-facing camera that monitors the driver for signs of distraction or fatigue. On the inside there will be a 14in infotainment screen and a head-up display that can put the most critical information in your line of sight. The bootspace should be large with more than 500 litres of space to hold all family luggage in the fiveseater. At launch, the RZ will be driven by two electric motors producing a combined 536bhp, with power from a 71.4kWh battery pack capable of at least 250 miles between charges. Prices may be likely to be around £52,000 but not announced yet, when its available in late 2022.

2022 Kia Niro SUV – this is the new hybrid (HEV) version of the Niro which you do not need to plug in but can’t travel very far on electric power as a result. The entry level version will be a 1.6-litre petrol engine and a 43bhp electric motor, producing a total of 139bhp. Other upgrades models are available but with the same engine and upgrades such as the alloy wheels, size of the digital instrument display, the audio system to name a few.

There will also be a Niro plug-in hybrid (PHEV) 44

2023 Honda electric SUV – this all-electric version of the Honda HR-V will arrive next year, and is just the first of a Honda range of 30 new models including hatchbacks and SUVs. The SUV will be the first model to arrive and will essentially be a zero-emissions version of the Honda HR-V family SUV, others planned includes a small affordable car cheaper than today’s Honda E in 2027. In 2025, Honda will launch a new electric model in partnership with technology giant Sony to influence a new generation of infotainment systems. The familysized electric will have a battery capacity of around 70kWh, making for a range of around 300 miles. The dimensions of the car will be very similar to the current hybrid HR-V. No prices or dates have been announced but stay tuned to find out more!

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Saturday 11 February 2023.

UPCOMING SHOWS AT THE ORCHARD THEATRE

The long awaited UK and Ireland tour of Sister Act have announced that television and musical theatre star Sandra Marvin will play ‘Deloris Van Cartier’ in the UK and Ireland tour, alongside Lesley Joseph as ‘Mother Superior’, Clive Rowe as ‘Eddie Souther’ and Lizzie Bea as ‘Sister Mary Robert’.

Having played ‘Jessie Grant’ in ITV’s “Emmerdale” for two years, Sandra Marvin joined the West End production of “Waitress” to play ‘Becky’, before reprising the role in 2021 and 2022 for the UK Tour of the production. Lesley Joseph is best known for playing ‘Dorien Green’ in the hugely successful sitcom “Birds of a Feather” alongside Pauline Quirke and Linda Robson. Clive Rowe won the Olivier award for Best Supporting Actor in a Musical for “Guys and Dolls” at The National Theatre and was also nominated for Best Supporting Performance in “Carousel”, also at The National Theatre. Lizzie Bea is currently starring as ‘Martha Dunnstock’ in “Heathers The Musical” at The Other Palace. She recently received critical and audience acclaim for her portrayal of ‘Tracy Turnblad’ in “Hairspray” at the London Coliseum.

Strictly Come Dancing and The Greatest Dancer reigning champion Oti Mabuse has created a show like no other. Prepare for a night of electrifying choreography as Oti is joined by some of the world’s greatest dancers and the West End’s finest singers and musicians. Oti Mabuse - I Am Here is a whirlwind celebration of the influences and inspirations that took her on a journey from growing up in South Africa to following her dream.

From mesmerising Jives and pumping Sambas to South Africa’s exhilarating Kwaito, this is an explosive night of dance and music that will set your heart racing. Oti Mabuse is at the Orchard Theatre on Sat 4 June.

As Shalamar, Howard Hewitt and Jeffrey Daniel sold over 25 million records worldwide and collected no less than 100 gold, silver and platinum awards.

Howard and Jeffrey, together with Carolyn Griffey – the daughter of Solar Records founder Dick Griffey, bring an exciting blend of funk, disco and soul to every live show. One of the most powerful and energetic acts on the circuit today. As noted in the British Hit Singles & Albums, Shalamar were regarded as fashion icons and trendsetters, and helped to introduce ‘body-popping’ to the United Kingdom. Jeffrey Daniel brought street dance to the UK – he is noted as the dance mentor for Michael Jackson and the man that taught him the moonwalk. Howard Hewett is a one of the most iconic US soul artistes of all time, releasing numerous solo albums and collaborating or performing with some of the greats including Stevie Wonder, George Duke, Earth, Wind and Fire, Teena Marie, Anita Baker, Dionne Warwick, Deniece Williams, El Debarge. He was recently voted by Soul Tracks as one of the top 10 greatest male soul singers of all time. The iconic Shalamar are in Dartford on Sun 5 June.

Based on the iconic movie, this sparkling tribute to the universal power of friendship, sisterhood and music tells the hilarious story of the disco diva whose life takes a surprising turn when she witnesses a murder. Under protective custody she is hidden in the one place she won’t be found – a convent! Disguised as a nun and under the suspicious watch of Mother Superior, Deloris The blockbuster story that captivated the world helps her fellow sisters find their voices as she is now an epic stage thriller. unexpectedly rediscovers her own.

The curator of the Louvre has been brutally A musical sent from above, Sister Act is at the murdered, and alongside his body are a series of Orchard Theatre from Monday 6 February – baffling codes. Follow the pulse-racing journey as

Shows this

ORCHARDTHEATRE.CO.UK

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Fri 3 June

Sun 12 June

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Sun 10 July

Tue 12 July

Professor Robert Langdon, played by Christopher Harper (Coronation Street), and fellow cryptologist Sophie Neveu (Hannah Rose Caton) attempt to solve the riddles, leading to the works of Leonardo Da Vinci and beyond, deep into the vault of history. With guidance from teacher and friend Sir Leigh Teabing, played by family favourite Danny John-Jules (Red Dwarf, Death in Paradise), Langdon and Neveu embark on a breathless race through the streets of Europe.

The pair must decipher the labyrinthine code before a shocking historical secret is lost forever.

Based on the best-selling novel of this century, with over 100 million copies sold, unlock the secrets of The Da Vinci Code in the world premiere stage adaptation of the international phenomenon.

Translated into over 50 different languages, with author Dan Brown named as one of Time’s 100 most influential people and adapted into a smash-hit movie that grossed over $750 million, The Da Vinci Code surprises at every twist. Now you can experience the sensational story live on stage, as Langdon and Neveu follow the trail of clues and race to uncover the truth in the greatest thriller of the past 2000 years.

story. The team making the production has been faithful to the book, but will also bring something new for the audience, in what is certain to be a gripping, fast-paced stage thriller and a thoroughly entertaining show.” Dan Brown Experience the sensational story on stage on Tue 14 - Sat 18 June.

“I am thrilled that The Da Vinci Code is being adapted for the stage, and excited to see the unique potential of live theatre enhance this

COMPETITION Join the strictly stars for ‘Here Come the Boys’ 2022 UK tour Our dance superstars Graziano di Prima, Nadiya Bychkova, Pasha Kovalev and Strictly finalist Karim Zeroual, will be joined by the sensational Nikita Kuzmin.

Starring Nikita Kuzmin, he is the latest heart-throb to join Strictly Come Dancing. Originally from the Ukraine, he moved to Italy when he was nine, before moving to Germany when he was 18.

Before joining Strictly, he was a professional dancer on Germany’s version of Strictly. He is also the holder of six Italian Championship titles.

Join Graziano, Nadiya, Pasha, Karim and Nikita, alongside a cutting-edge soundtrack of dance-floor anthems, club classics and guilty pleasures, in this show-stopping dance extravaganza, which promises to be the biggest party of the year!

Question: As well as dancing in the Here Come the Boys tour, Nikita Kuzmin dances on which TV show?

A. Strictly Come Dancing B. The Greatest Dancer C. Dancing On Ice Email competition@dartfordliving.com by the 15th May to be in with a chance of winning.

RUES: 1. The winner(s) will be the first correct entry/entries drawn. 2. The judge’s decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. 3. Prizes are as stated and no cash in lieu or an alternative prize will be offered.. 4. Winners will be notified by telephone by the Orchard, within 5 working days of the competition being drawn. 5. Employees and the immediate families of participating companies are ineligible to enter. 6. Closing date for the competition is stated above. 7. 7. All entries will be added to the Dartford Living mailing list to receive a copy of the magazine by email once a month. Please state when you enter the competition if you don’t wish to be added 47 www.dartfordbusinessdirectory.co.uk

What to do: Grease and line (with greaseproof paper) a 7” round cake tin and preheat the oven to 160ºC (140º Fan oven and Gas mark 3) Cream the Margarine with the Vanilla Extract, then add Sugar and mix until pale and creamy.

VICTORIA SPONGE

Scrape the sides of the bowl frequently to ensure an even mix.

By Debbie Dickinson To help you prepare for the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations, I thought I re-share my Celebration Victoria Sponge recipe from a few years ago. It’s the perfect cake for a Royal occasion!

This recipe will serve approx. 15 people.

Instead of a large cake this recipe works perfectly for cupcakes.

What you need: 225g Margarine 4 Large Eggs 225g Caster Sugar 225g Self-Raising Flour 1tsp Vanilla Extract For the Filling Seedless Raspberry Jam 100g Unsalted Butter 100g Icing Sugar 1tsp Vanilla Extract

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Add each Egg , in turn, with a spoonful of flour until all eggs are mixed in. Add the remaining Flour and mix until combined.

(Don’t forget to keep scraping those sides down!)

Pop the mixture into the tin and bake for approximately 1 hour. The cake is ready when a skewer, inserted into the cake, comes out dry/clean. Place the cake on a wire rack until cooled.

Once the cake is cooled I prefer to split it into 3 layers. Sandwiching the bottom 2 layers together with the Jam, and then filling Buttercream in between the top layers To make the buttercream, cream together the Butter with the Vanilla Extract, then add the Icing Sugar and cream until pale and fluffy. If you think it’s too thick add a small splash of milk - too thin add a sprinkling more icing sugar! Spread onto the Decorate with more buttercream, lots of delicious berries and celebration flags.

Enjoy!

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PARENT AND TODDLER GROUPS - TERM TIME ONLY MONDAYS 9:15am - 11:30am - A&J Toddlers - St Anselms Church Community Centre, Dartford. £2.50 per one adult and child and 50p for any extra children or adults each. Tea/coffee biscuits, small snack for children with juice. Craft table and singing and dancing at end of session Contact Julie on 07917 843592.

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 Sticky Fingers - £1.50 per adult includes tea ,biscuits and healthy snack time for the children For pre school children up to 4 years St Mary Greenhithe Church Hall London Road Greenhithe Contact 01322 382031 or see www.stmarygreenhithe.com 9:30-10:30am Music and Rhyme Time at Fleetdown Utd FC (near Dunelm). £5 per session if you sign up for the term, siblings go free. Contact Katie on 07734661352 or Facebook.com/musicandrhymetime WEDNESDAYS 1pm -2.45pm - Fleetdown Open House - Fleetdown Community Centre, Swaledale Road, Dartford, DA2 6JZ - £3.50 per Adult - £1 Siblings Bottomless refreshments.

THURSDAYS 10:30-11:30am, Music and Rhyme Time at Fleetdown Utd FC (near Dunelm). £5 per session if you sign up for the term, siblings go free. Contact Katie on 07734661352 or Facebook.com/musicandrhymetime FRIDAYS 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 2-3pm - Lego Club- ages 5 and over - Chrome Road Slade Green DA8 2EL Tel: 01322 333602 BABYBALLERS Themed Football and multi skills sessions are suitable for girls and boys aged 16 months to 5 years old. Your little superstar will learn shapes, colours, numbers and lots, lots, more all through playing the BabyBallers way!

Classes in Dartford, Northfleet, Gravesend and Ebbsfleet on Fridays and weekends.

Please visit https://babyballers1.class4kids.co.uk/ or email matt@babyballers.com 50

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LOCAL CLUBS AND ASSOCIATIONS IN AND AROUND DARTFORD - DUE TO COVID PLEASE CHECK WITH ORGANISER TO MAKE SURE THE CLUBS ARE STILL OPERATING 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.

WILMINGTON AND AXSTANE PROBUS CLUB We are a group of retired men who meet monthly for a lunch and a speaker at the Swanley Bowls Centre. We also have a monthly walk and occasional coffee mornings and DARTFORD OSTOMY GROUP SUPPORT (DOGS) as a side line we raise money for a local meet every third Wednesday in the month at St charity. If you are missing the contact with Anselm’s Parish Centre, West Hill, Dartford DA1 other business men since you retired, why 2HJ from 1.00 pm to 3.00 pm. It is for anyone not come and join us on the last Thursday of who has an Ileostomy, Colostomy, Urostomy, every month. For more details contact Phil Burt IBS and pouch, their carers, family and friends. on 01322 274541 or look at our website www. waprobus.com ALL DIRECTIONS is a community learning organisation for adults and young people aged 16+ with physical, THE NATIONAL WOMEN’S REGISTER learning and mental health difficulties. For The National Women’s Register (NWR) is more information, attend a taster session a national organisation that meets in the or visit our community lunch club, contact Dartford area. The NWR is a discussion group Caroline on 01322 837172 or 07570 347612 for ‘lively minded women’. Contact can be made via www.nwr.org.uk or call 01603406767 AGE UK, CRAYFORD LIBRARY POP IN PARLOUR COFFEE MORNING every Friday morning 10.30 - HEALTHCARE RETIREMENT GROUP 12.30 Tea, Coffee, Biscuits and a chat - Just £1 Dartford & Gravesham Branch.

Meets the first Wednesday of every month at BEXLEY AND DARTFORD BRANCH PARKINSONS the Masonic Hall, West Hill, Dartford from 10UK 12pm.Activities include guest speakers, outings, For people with Parkinsons and their carers. lunches, holidays and quizzes. For more Dartford: 2nd Wednesday of each month, Mick information contact Jagger Centre, 7 -9pm. Information support Marion on 01322 402967 workers available, guest speakers and quizzes.

Contact Wendy Leach. Tel: 02083065973 WHEELCHAIR EPEE FENCING Wheelchair epee fencing in Dartford and THE WELLBEING LINK Gravesham, we are delighted to announce that The Wellbeing Link meets on Friday mornings New Ash Green Epee club, can now introduce from 10-1pm in the St. Anselm’s Parish Centre, wheelchair fencing. If interested in taking up 89 West Hill, Dartford A friendly and informative this para sport please contact us on 01474 group is a support group for people with any 871484 or alternatively look at our website www. life affecting health issues from loneliness and nagfencing.eu isolation to life limiting conditions. - call Julie On 07775875585 ERITH YOUTH RUGBY JUST FOR GROWN UPS GROUP Sunday 10:45-12:00, Sussex Road Erith. Ages We are a small friendly group who meet at 4-16 welcome 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 LITTLE TIGERS - KARATE FOR 3, 4 & 5 YEAR OLDS chat, coffee and biscuits or a fun quiz. For more Sundays 10:15-10:45 at Swanscombe Leisure information contact mikeansell.dt@hotmail.

Centre. co.uk Call Saj on 07903 513104 20S 30S DARTFORD BEXLEYHEATH SURROUNDING AREAS SOCIAL GROUP more DARTFORD GYMNASTICS information visit: Celebrating 50years. www.meetup.com/20s-30s-DartfordBexleyheath-surrounding-areas-social-group/ Based in Heath Lane, we are a friendly club with super equipment, great coaches and high DARTFORD U3A (UNIVERSITY OF standards. We do lots of competitions and we THE THIRD AGE) do not close through the holidays! meets on the first Tuesday of every month Visit our website www.dartfordgymnastics. (except August) at St Anselm’s Church Hall, co.uk for full details or contact Linda on 01322 West Hill, Dartford at 2pm, For information about meetings and interest groups call 01474- 409312 or email dartfordgymclub@yahoo. co.uk 709068 or visit our website. www.dartfordbusinessdirectory.co.uk

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LEARN KARATE Learn karate with Yamato Damashii – for adults & children Every Wednesday evening at the Leigh Academy & every Saturday morning at Becket Sport Centre, first lesson free.

For more info, visit www.ydma.club or find us on Facebook, search for Yamato Damashii Martial Arts.

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.

YOGA WITH EMMA “YOGA WITH EMMA Europa Gymnastics Centre: - Wednesdays: Hatha Yoga – 9.30am to 10.30am - Fridays: Hatha Yoga – 9.30am to 10.30am - Fridays: Yin Yoga – 10.45am to 11.45am Becket Sports Centre: - Fridays: Hatha Yoga – 7.00pm to 8.00pm

DARTFORD ORIENTEERING CLUB For more details see www.dfok.co.uk

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

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: highlystrungbc@gmail.com

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

Coach Martin - 07944 730634.

All ages from 7 years to adult welcome 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.

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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.

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.

FOOTSCRAY MEADOW PARKRUN A new Parkrun event with parking at Crazy Barn

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SEEDS CYCLING CLUB DARTFORD Seeds is a long-established cycling Club in Dartford and we share our headquarters at Hesketh with Dartford Cricket Club. We cater for most abilities and have a social ride most Saturday mornings. For info on joining us please visit our website www.seedscycling.co.uk DARTFORD AND WHITE OAK TRIATHLON CLUB We are the local British Triathlon Federation Club covering Bexley, Dartford and Swanley. We offer coached swimming sessions 3 times per week at White oak pool in Swanley and Fairfield pool in Dartford. Our members compete in many local Triathlons plus many members are training towards Iron Man distance. We also have our own Triathlon in June every year which has been running since 1989. If you are interested in joining us then please visit our website http://www.dartfordandwhiteoaktri.co.uk DARTFORD ROAD RUNNERS Dartford Road Runners are based at Princes Park Stadium and are one of the biggest road running clubs in Kent. We currently have about 200 members of all abilities including a beginners group. DRR teams compete in the Kent League, the Assembly League and the Kent Fitness League. To see what we offer and how to join us please visit our website – anyone is welcome to join us with all abilities. http://dartfordroadrunners.co.uk/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 CENTRAL PARK ATHLETICS CLUB We are situated in Dartford’s outstanding Central Park and can provide access to a state of the art running track (re-laid in 2015) and the full range of track and field facilities for just £4.50 per session (we offer discounted annual memberships). Refreshments and changing facilities are also available. For no extra charge, we hold coached track sessions on Wednesday evenings for runners of all abilities.

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

Every Sunday 10-11am – Child friendly coached sessions – Come and join the CPA Swifts – As a fledgling club we would like to give children of all ages and abilities the chance to experience training and coaching within a club environment – come and be part of the team Free first session with this advert SO LET’S GO RUNNING (SLGR) SLGR is a local running club with structured training sessions designed to improve runners speed and stamina.

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

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

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

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.

DARTFORD & DISTRICT PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY. We are a long-established camera club meeting fortnightly at Stone Pavilion. We have an exciting programme of speakers, competitions, practical evenings and would welcome new members with or without photographic experience to our friendly meetings.

You can attend several meetings as a guest before taking out membership which enables you to become a fully-fledged member and enter competitions. Our website is dartphoto. org.uk. We have a spacious hall which enables us to meet “socially distanced” in the present environment. We hope to meet you soon.

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FIREWALKERS RAISE A BLAZING HOT £14000 FOR LOCAL CHARITY WE ARE BEAMS! with her condition and trying to learn as much possible to ensure her autism will not hold her back in any way.

Dave describes why he decided to take part in this challenge “Beams is a charity close to our hearts, I chose to take part not only to fundraise as much as I could to help families like ours but also to spread the word- the more we can “normalise” the fact that we are all different, the easier it will be for children like Victoria to thrive in the future”

Over 50 brave participants took part in this exhilarating Fire walk challenge of walking 20 feet over hot coals at 550 degree Celsius on the 26th March at Princes Park Stadium, to raise money for We Are Beams.

We Are Beams is based in Hextable and provides care and support to over 450 families each year. The disabled children and young people who access We Are Beams services will typically have one or multiple learning difficulties, complex health needs, physical or sensory impairment, challenging behaviour, Autism or severe ADHD.

We Are Beams have managed to carry with Fundraisers included many families that have support services throughout the pandemic and been supported by Beams, including members continue to raise £2 Million a year in order to of Little Buddies, a parent’s support group for provide care to over 450 families in Kent children with severe and complex disabilities.

For more information on We Are Beams and In total over £14,000 was raised through how you can get involved in supporting the sponsorship, one fundraiser whose family has charity visit personally benefited from the support of Beams www.wearebeams.org.uk or call 01322 668501 is David Wiggins who has raised over £1,200.

Dave’s daughter Victoria was diagnosed with Photos by Pete Bresser autism three years ago, the family have since been on a roller coaster of emotions, dealing 54

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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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ADVERTISERS INDEX

DIRECTORY OF LOCAL BUSINESSES ADVERTISING IN DARTFORD LIVING ACCOUNTS, FINANCE AND LEGAL Blue Rocket Accounting Summit Wealth Downton and Ali Associates HOME IMPROVEMENTS The Double Glazing Repair Man Avant Garde Garden Design Tudor Living - Electrician Steve Cook- Double Glazing Claremont Decorative Services WASTE CARRIERS D & L Services RELIGIOUS SERVICES Crossways Community Church COUNCIL SERVICES Dartford Borough Council MEMBERS OF PARLIAMENT Gareth Johnson ESTATE/LETTING AGENTS Fox Estates Wisdom Estates FLORISTS Dartford Florist GARAGES/VEHICLE SERVICES Orchard Garage CARE PROVIDERS Anchor Foster Care Home Instead HEALTH AND WELLBEING Slimming World BUSINESS SERVICES Nucleus 56

PICTURE FRAMING 22 Craft Frames 49 59 PRINTERS Darenth Print and Design 4 6 32 33 33

RESTAURANTS, CAFES, FOOD OUTLETS The Brook Efes

EDUCATION Gain Education Baby/Toddler Sense 32 My Bluewater Tutor KTB Kids

27 CHARITABLE ORGANISATIONS Valley Park Radio New Life Christian Coommunity Foodbank 30 LEISURE/ENTERTAINMENT 32 Bexley Park Comedy Orchard Theatre YDMA Karate 9 Paul Page Gold Academy 4 Mini Athletics FC Academy 6 TRAVEL Harden Holidays 60 RETAIL The Bed Post Bradleys Jewellers 2 34 7 45 www.dartfordliving.com

54 6 11 42 17 33 39 41 10 54

13 12 22 23 37 15 20 16 55

ADVERTISING

THINKING OF ADVERTISING?

We offer amazing value advertising with adverts starting from just £40 for a month. We don’t just take your money and add you to the magazine. We want to work with you to promote your businesses as much as we can using our website and social media channels for maximum exposure. We can also provide advertising options solely online on your website and/ or social media channels. We feel we have every base covered.

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

Magazine/ Website Design

YOUR NEXT DEADLINE IS 15TH MAY 2022

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

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USEFUL NUMBERSS LOCAL AND NATIONAL

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

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)

0800 138 1624 Local Breastfeeding Counsellors Judianne/Paula 01322 224072 National Domestic Violence Helpline (24 hour) 0808 2000 247 NSPCC Child Protection Helpline: 0808 800 5000 RSPCA Kent, North West Branch Helpline 01322 286720 Samaritans: 116 123

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

HEALTH Darent Valley Hospital 01322 428100 Dartford East Health Centre 01322 421480 Boots Chemist Bluewater 01322 624780 (Late Night) ASDA Greenhithe Chemist 01322 374100 (Late Night) The National Pandemic Flu Service 0800 1513 100 West Kent NHS helpline 0800 0 850850

LOCAL MP Gareth Johnson 020 7219 7047

‘Play & pay’, 9 hole, par 3 golf course on Dartford Football Club’s Princes Park- Contact: 01322 299990 www.dartfordfc.com

TRAVEL Heathrow Airport Enquires 08700 000123 Gatwick Airport Enquires 08700 002468 National Rail Enquires 08456 484950 Highways England Info Line 0300 123 5000

LOCAL SPORTS CLUBS Bexley Rugby Club 01322 550142 or www.pitchero.com/clubs/ bexleyrfc/ Dartford Ladies Hockey Club Dawn Hall (Secretary) 07793 777250 Dartford Ju Jitsu Club Mondays, Dartford Girls Grammar School, Shepherds

HELPLINES 24 Hour Kent Dementia Helpline: 0800 500 3014 Alcoholics Anonymous: 08457 697 555 Citizens Advice Bureau: 01322 472 979 Debt Councilling (CAP) 0800 328 0006 Information About Drugs - FRANK: 0800 776600 Kent Homophobic Incident Reporting Line: 0800 328 9162 Kent Racial Incident Reporting Line:

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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.

Dartford Valley RFC www.pitchero.com/clubs/ darenthvalleyrfc/ USEFUL FACEBOOK GROUPS Dartford Living Dartford Together Dartford Living Community Group

GIVE YOUR LOVED ONES FINANCIAL SECURITY

Protection Call Brian Downton, Dartford’s Protection Champion for: Life Cover - In the event of your death, a life insurance plan can protect those dependent on your income while you were alive.

Critical Illness cover – In the event of a serious illness, money paid out can be used to pay for life changing adjustments or just replace the income you may have lost through being ill.

Income Protection – You will receive a monthly payment to replace your personal income, should you be unable to work through sickness or injury.

Accident Protection – This provides a tax free lump sum in the event of a specified accidental injury. Particularly useful for amateur sports players and health service workers.

General Insurance – We can help with residential buildings and contents insurance, landlord’s insurance, insurance for high net worth clients and private medical insurance.

Download your Protection Guide

Downton & Ali Associates 0203 0210075 info@downtonandali.co.uk www.dartfordbusinessdirectory.co.uk

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