Dartford Living May 2023

MAY 2023 ISSUE 203

FREE

WED 5 JUL 7:30PM 0343 310 0033 ORCHARDTHEATRE.CO.UK

THU 6 JUL 7:30PM

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WED 5 JULY 7:30PM

THU 6 JULY 7:30PM

DO YOU BELIEVE IN GHOSTS?

BIG GIRLS DON’T CRY

An experiential ghost story, unlike anything you have ever experienced before.

The Internationally-acclaimed Tribute to Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons

Welcome to a haunting night at the theatre.

Are you feeling brave?

If you are, join us, and we will tell you all the secrets of what goes on when the theatre goes dark. When the only thing to guide you is the Ghost Light.

To keep mischievous spirits away – or maybe just to light the way for the ghosts who call it their home.

Follow the rules: keep your hands inside the car (so to speak) and you will be safe, as we tell the tales that every theatre has to tell.

The ghostly stories of the things that go bump in the night, or the day.

The things that just don’t add up or do they?

Stories that you have to take away with you. . . or at least try not to.

We will raise the hairs on your arms and send chills down the back of your neck. . .

Join us for a dark night. Dare you!

They skyrocketed to worldwide stardom 60 years ago with No1 hits Big Girls Don’t Cry, Walk Like a Man and Sherry – so, come out tonight as we celebrate all of their million-selling hits.

This non-stop hit machine is authentically recreated by our phenomenal cast and live band.

Walk Like a Man, Rag Doll, December 1963 (Oh What a Night) and Big Girls Don’t Cry, songs that propelled the Four Seasons to super stardom are joined by hits that showcased Frankie’s incredible falsetto including Let’s Hang On, Working My Way Back to You, Beggin’ and Grease.

So it’s time to hang on to what we got and celebrate one of the world’s treasures in two hours of non-stop hits.

Come out tonight as we take you to a place where the moon shines bright and we dance the night away.

Over 12s advised

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Oh what a night it will be!

0343 310 0033 www.dartfordliving.com ORCHARDTHEATRE.CO.UK

CONTENTS

Funding and advice & 1-2-1 mentoring for businesses What the Spring Budget means for business Healthy Living Centre Dartford Free support for local busines KSS Hound Hike Merchants, Munitions & Manor house trails Travel Spotlight - Tanzania & Zanzibar We are Beams colour dash Life under the stairs Walking with the Darts Traditional Spring cleaning tips Auto News Sports News Painting Rocks Blood pressure: What you need to know Coronation Quiz Coronation Crumble recipe Where to go locally Useful Numbers

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

We continue to live in challenging 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 50,000 local people who read the magazine and/or follow us on social media each month.

Take care,

Vijay

ONLINE

Editor - Dartford Living (and the rest of the fantastic Dartford Living volunteer team)

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

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There are various methods of raising capital and we can guide you through the process.

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FUNDING, ADVICE AND 1-2-1 MENTORING AVAILABLE THROUGH DARTFORD’S YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS SUPPORT PROGRAM

Budding entrepreneurs in Dartford can now access expert support and the chance for a grant to help make their business dreams a reality, thanks to a new scheme launched by the Kent Foundation and funded by Dartford Borough Council.

Stuart Tanton, Director of Kent Foundation said: “We are very pleased to be delivering this exciting program for young people in Dartford, through the support of Dartford Council. The opportunity this creates for young people in Dartford who want to start their own enterprise is going to create not just a short term achievement in kickstarting new enterprises, but enforce Dartford as a great place to start and grow a business. Our plan is to embed this support in the local community through a network of volunteer business mentors, and we look forward to creating key partners in the area to achieve this.”

This program is open to anyone aged 18 to 30 who has a business idea, or is already trading and wants to grow their company. The program provides workshops, support tailored to their business needs and full access to the Kent Foundation’s business mentoring service.

Those who sign up will also have an exciting opportunity to make a Dragon’s Den style pitch to access a small business grant to help these www.kentfoundation.org/dartford entrepreneurs get off the ground.

The Kent Foundation is a charity that provides support, guidance and mentoring to young people aged 30 or under who are interested in starting and running their own business.

The charity was founded in 1985 and has been helping thousands of young entrepreneurs ever since.

As part of its offer it has a range of services to aspiring young people, including free advice and guidance on starting and running a business, networking opportunities, and training courses. Their mission is to help young people turn their business ideas into a reality, and to support them through every step of the journey.

One of the main services offered by the Kent Foundation is their Business Support Programme, which provides one-on-one business mentoring. Through this program, aspiring business owners are matched with an experienced mentor who can offer advice and guidance on everything from writing a business plan to securing funding, marketing, and more.

This personalized support can be invaluable for young entrepreneurs who are just starting out, as it can help them navigate the challenges of starting a business and avoid common mistakes. www.dartfordbusinessdirectory.co.uk

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WHAT THE SPRING BUDGET MEANS FOR BUSINESSES

By Bruce Boateng

1 Jan 2019 – 31 March 2023). The 2023 Spring Budget will make this £1m ‘temporary’ limit ‘permanent’ from 1 April 2023.

These measures are designed to incentivise business investment in the UK. These allowances should be welcomed by businesses as it will allow ‘upfront’ tax relief which will align with cash flow needs. As a tax practitioner, I have seen the evolution of capital allowances for businesses.

The recent capital expenditure incentives are tax measures that businesses really utilise and need.

The Chancellor of the Exchequer (Jeremy Hunt) gave his Spring Budget in March 2023, and there are many things to take away from it. After almost 2 months since the budget, there are still continuous debates about its implications for our future and the reality of the economic forecasts. Aside from the economic and growth forecasts, tax measures are always prominent in all budgets. Whether it is in the speech itself, or in the documents released by the UK Government shortly afterwards, tax is always a central feature of the content. This editorial will focus on two areas announced in the Spring Budget that will be important for businesses.

1) Capital Allowances and ‘Full Expensing’: Companies incurring qualifying expenditure on the provision of new plant and machinery, on or after 1 April 2023 but before 1 April 2026, will be able to claim: a. 100% first-year allowances for main rate expenditure (e.g. plant & machinery). This is also known as ‘full expensing’; and b. 50% first-year allowances for special rate expenditure (e.g. lifts, escalators & moving walkways, space & water heating systems, airconditioning & air-cooling systems) It should be noted that the above changes are separate to the existing ‘Annual Investment Allowance’ (“AIA”). The AIA allows businesses to fully deduct eligible capital expenditure (including special rate items) against a corporate group’s corporate taxes, up to a specified limit. The AIA limit was temporary increased from £200,000 to £1m per year (from 8

2) Research & Development (“R&D”) Tax Relief Reform: The UK Government will legislate in the Spring Finance Bill 2023 to reform the administration of R&D tax reliefs. The legislation will mostly apply to accounting periods starting on or after 1 April 2023.

The R&D tax reforms include: • Two new categories of qualifying expenditure for R&D tax relief. This will include the costs of datasets and cloud computing.

• The definition of R&D will be expanded to include all mathematics. This will clarify that ‘pure maths’ can qualify as R&D. • A mandate that companies inform HMRC of their intention to make an R&D tax claim using a new digital form.

• From 1 August 2023, all R&D tax relief claims will have to be accompanied by a compulsory additional information form, providing HMRC with more details about the claim.

• Other measures to tackle abuse of the regime and improve compliance.

The UK has a generous R&D tax relief regime, offering additional tax deductions and credits even if a business is loss making. The reforms announced in the 2023 Spring Budget may increase administrative burden but the regime is still generous and beneficial to businesses.

Boat&Co is a tax consultancy (based in Dartford) that provides a variety of tax services to individuals and businesses. If you have any tax enquiries please contact us at enquiries@ bncotax.com. Otherwise, check out the website www.bncotax.com.

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HEALTHY LIVING CENTRE DARTFORD - MEET THE TEAM Our aim at The Healthy Living Centre Dartford involved in a number of community projects is to reduce health inequalities and improve across the town. health and wellbeing in our local community in Dartford. We achieve this by delivering and facilitating projects that offer a range of opportunities for training, volunteering, social interaction and community engagement.

Local people looking for affordable and fun activities are invited to join us at Healthy Living Centre Dartford for our weekly or monthly sessions. Our calendar is jam-packed with a wide range of activities, classes, and clubs from exercise to language lessons to gardening and arts & crafts. Many of these activities are offered free, and those with a cost are just £2.50/£3.50 per session. You can find Healthy Living Centre Dartford activities at both Tree Estate and Temple Hill Community Centres, where our team of friendly volunteers and staff will be happy to welcome you. For all our most up-to-date information follow us on Facebook or Instagram, send us an email at info@hlcdartford.org.uk or call us on 01322 311265.

Joan says “I have been with the Healthy Living Centre for over 10 years starting out as a volunteer administrator. I quickly became a member of the staff team as Volunteer Coordinator and supported in building the This month we thought we would introduce you fantastic volunteer base of truly marvellous to the team! individuals! Our volunteers come from all walks of life and are of all ages enjoying the projects that that they get involved in. My background was corporate, and I was also a member of the Recruitment employment confederation (MREC) for many years which gave me the skills to recruit to engage with the team. No two days are the same at the HLC! The projects are diverse from gardening through to IT Tuition.

This is not your everyday office Job but a great Community Project for everyone to get involved with!! “ Tim says “I’m the new Centre Coordinator for Dartford Healthy Living Centre, helping manage our two busy centres. I get involved with organising our different weekly sessions, courses, community lunches and also family Sharon – our Chief Officer. events during the school holidays. Every Sharon leads Healthy Living Centre Dartford day here is different which I love! I have a projects and co-ordinates activities with other background in Primary teaching and before organisations. that Project Management and Finance so I bring a few different skills – including tea Sharon is a Dartford native and is actively making (essential). Our friendly staff and army 10

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Knowing first-hand the benefits gardening can have for your mental health and improving your life, I hope that I can use my past experiences to help others to improve theirs too.”

of brilliant volunteers have already made me feel very welcome, and I look forward to getting to know them more, and meeting lots of new faces when they walk into our centres.”

Debbie says “Hi, I’m Debbie and I’m the Community Engagement and Activities Co-ordinator at HLCD. I joined HLCD during lockdown and have loved watching the Community Centres come back to life with the groups and activities – hosted by us and other local organisations. Helping organise our Welcome Back events in Temple Hill Square in 2022 were a particular highlight!

Frances says “Hi, I’m Frances and have recently joined HLCD as the Growing Community Project Officer. My passion for Horticulture and community involvement is what drew me to this position, as well as my want to use the knowledge and experience I have gained to help others improve their mental and physical health.

I caught the gardening bug as a very young child, helping my grandparents to grow plants in their greenhouse, after raising my own children I went through training with the RHS under the previous head of Royal Parks.

I currently hold the position of gardener at Lullingstone Castle and The World Garden and was previously a gardener for Hall Place and Gardens in Bexley.

Having grown up in Dartford, I’m really looking forward to being able to help my community.

I run our kids Hatchlings Cookery course and really love watching the children’s confidence grow across the course, encouraging them to ‘throw away the recipe’ and learn to cook - to their own taste - with what they have available. I’m very passionate about learning to adapt in the kitchen - my Monday ‘Chop and Chatter’ cookery club are used to me arriving with a recipe or an idea and then changing it completely according to what we find available in the kitchen! But every week we enjoy a delicious lunch together.

Watching the repair café in action has made me more determined to reduce waste and so often try to upcycle old, unwanted things into something useful and new! And lots of the craft activities I plan are often inspired by upcycling and using scrap materials.

I’m looking forward to help organise more events and meeting more of our wonderful community throughout the year!”

Nelson says “Hi, I have been volunteering at the HLC since Sept 2022 after moving into the area from Maidstone. I started by volunteering

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at the Hygge on the Hill group participating in recreational games and activities and socialise with the service users. I began working as the HLCD Finance Officer in Jan this year - where I process invoices, set up payments and run weekly reconciliations and the payroll.

In my spare time I enjoy playing table tennis, badminton, going to church and attending peer support groups.“ That’s the core team at HLCD, but we would not be able to do what we do without the support and help of our amazing army of volunteers!

VOLUNTEERING WITH HEALTHY LIVING CENTRE DARTFORD We deliver and facilitate projects that offer a range of opportunities for training, volunteering, social interaction and community engagement and our volunteers are the core of who we are and what we stand for. Our wonderful volunteers are from all backgrounds and vary from retired people, jobseekers and local people with time on their hands. Mostly they are people who want to share their skills and give something back to the community.

Would you like to learn how to teach others to cook and prepare meals or maybe you already have those skills to share with others?

Would you like to share your IT skills or learn and progress in a regular IT class? Or if the outdoor life is for you, you can join the team on our community allotment to grow your own vegetables, fruit and flowers.

If you would like more information on these or future activities or have any suggestions, please email us: info@hlcdartford.org.uk and follow our social media pages: Facebook @ healthylivingcentredartford and Instagram: @ hlcdartford.

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JOB ADVERT: Fundraising Executive Salary £25,630 for 30 hours per week (depending on experience).

Pension contribution after probationary period.

We are looking for a highly motivated Fundraiser to work with our established fundraising team.

The ideal candidate will need to develop new income streams within the local business community by developing strong relationships and brand awareness for the Charity. This role would ideally suit someone that enjoys working with and presenting to business contacts and networking groups.

The work involves developing fundraising donations and campaigns, hosting events and marketing to the corporate community.

We are seeking a fun, outgoing and inspirational type of person for this vacancy. Use of own car is essential for travel in the local area. Full training will be given to the right applicant.

If you are interested and would like to find out more please E: luke.cashin@wearebeams.org.uk for an application pack or T: 01322 668501 option 5 Closing date for applications: Wednesday 31st May 2023 www.dartfordbusinessdirectory.co.uk

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DARTFORD RESIDENTS CAN RECEIVE FREE SUPPORT TO GROW THEIR DREAM BUSINESS

Would-be entrepreneurs who don’t want to have to worry about a bank loan, debt or spend weeks on a business plan are being invited to learn how to follow their dream and start up their own businesses, completely free of charge.

into a business thanks to the Rebel Business School course in February 2023. She said: “Before joining the Rebel course, I remember some time back sitting at a craft fair all day without making a single sale. At another event a couple of weeks ago, after the Rebel course, I started chatting to Rebel Business School is offering a free, two-week a woman who told me she had been given a business start-up course aimed at helping Kent sewing machine for Christmas. I started talking residents make money doing what they love. to her about fabrics and made a sale.

The online course, from 15-26 May, is being funded

by Kent County Council and supported by Dartford Borough Council. It’s aimed at helping people set up in business without borrowing from the bank or getting tied up in red tape.

“Rebel didn’t teach me to sew, but it did teach me about communication skills, marketing, networking, social media and all the free resources that can help new businesses get off to a good start without spending lots of money.”

“Traditionally when starting a business, you’re “The presenters are really inspiring and make you told to focus on the admin, research and funding believe in yourself. They help you understand how side of things which, whilst important, doesn’t get to talk to customers, find new ones and generate many people pumped to get going. Of course sales, as well as highlighting free or low-cost we cover the legal aspects, but it’s much more ways of getting a new business off the ground. I important to get people excited about how to turn am already thinking about signing up for another their dreams into reality; the technical details can course to brush up on my skills.” be explained later,” explained the Rebel Business School’s Chief Operations Officer Henry Nicholson. The next online course runs from 15 to 26 May. Although it is aimed at would-be entrepreneurs Mr Nicholson and his team have an impressive in the Dartford, Medway and Gravesham area, track record across Kent, helping more than anyone from across Kent can join. It is funded by 300 businesses start or grow their new business Kent County Council and supported by Dartford, ventures since July 2021.

Medway and Gravesham Councils.

They include Michelle-Lee MacDonald, trading as Sign up for free at https://therebelschool.com/kent Saffa Stitches and Crafts, who turned her hobby 14

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TAKE PART IN THE AIR AMBULANCE CHARITY KENT SURREY SUSSEX HOUND HIKE 100 AND HELP RAISE VITAL FUNDS

Air Ambulance Charity Kent Surrey Sussex (KSS) is of eight urgent calls for help each day, giving inviting dog lovers to take part in Hound Hike 100 patients the best chance of survival and helping to help raise vital funds for the life-saving charity. to keep families together. By taking part in Hound Hike 100, you will help KSS to provide critical care The event encourages participants to walk a whenever and wherever it is needed – whether total of 100 kilometres or 100 miles with their at home, by the roadside, at a remote location canine companions during the 31 days of May. or even when out on a dog walk.”

Participants can walk at their own pace, in their own time, on days and times to suit them, and KSS is the Helicopter Emergency Medical Service at locations of their choice.

(HEMS) for Kent, Surrey and East and West Sussex.

The award-winning charity provides world-leading Nick Turrell, Community Fundraising Manager, KSS pre-hospital emergency care whenever and said: “Hound Hike 100 is a wonderful way to give wherever required to save lives and ensure the best your dog walks a purpose this May. Each year, KSS possible patient outcomes. When the call comes needs to raise £16.6M – the equivalent of £45K per KSS can reach any part of Kent, Surrey and Sussex day – to operate our life-saving service. With 87% in under 30 minutes, bringing the emergency room of our income raised through the generosity of to the scene to deliver life-saving care. our supporters, we rely on members of our local communities fundraising on our behalf.”

To sign up for Hound Hike 100, please visit www. aakss.org.uk/houndhike100. For further information “Our specialist crews of emergency doctors and about Air Ambulance Charity Kent Surrey Sussex: critical care paramedics respond to an average www.aakss.org.uk 16

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MERCHANTS, MUNITIONS AND MANOR HOUSE TALES: WALK THROUGH HISTORY IN CRAYFORD

By Clair Humphries

Did You Know?

Around 4000 men were killed at the Battle of Crayford in AD 456?

Named because it provided a ford across the river Cray, Crayford’s history has been traced back to early iron age settlements of around 30 BC. As the Roman road of Watling Street took shape it became an important staging post on the London-Dover route. Doomsday Book entries cite Crayford as having twenty-seven households, three mills and a timber church – possibly the origins of St Paulinus, which was rebuilt in the Norman style from 1100 onwards.

Those three mills were to set a precedent for enterprise in the local area. Its riverside location made it ideal for tanning (processing animal skin into workable material) which needed a ready water supply for soaking hide. Textiles would later become one of Crayford’s most profitable industries and the first silk works opened in the 17th century. Iron mills have been recorded locally at around the same time, as have barge building companies – useful for transporting goods and supplies along the river and through the marshes.

The Great Fire of Crayford!

St Paulinus has a long and dramatic history of its own, reflected in its eclectic architectural style.

The Norman church has had various additions ST PAULINUS CHURCH over the centuries and you may be able to spot medieval and gothic features throughout. In 1628, Today’s Crayford might seem an unremarkable fire broke out in the church, destroying much of its suburb but its residents have got plenty to be roof and various ancient monuments. The grade proud of (and I’m not just talking about Sainsbury’s, two listed building suffered again in the Second which in 2010 was the UK’s largest branch!) Retail World War, when nearby bombing shattered most records aside, the town has been at the centre of of its windows. innovations in industrial and military development.

There are even rumours of rhinoceros remains Crayford’s notable residents are described in detail lurking on Crayford marshes! I can’t prove that on the excellent website www.crayfordhistory.org.uk one, but I can introduce you to the rich history of which I recommend. Among them, local landowner Crayford past, so come with me and let’s start William Draper of May Place (who owned most of 17th century Crayford) was a Puritan defender walking…

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of parliament and is buried in the North Chapel at St Paulinus. Charles Swaisland – a wealthy textile printer – was known for his philanthropic work, providing land and financial aid to local schools. Then of course, there’s David Evans, who in the mid-19th century began his well known silk business, eventually supplying fabric to Liberty’s of London and Christian Dior. A less glamorous side of his trade was carried out in the cattle sheds attached to the silk factory (cow dung was used in the manufacturing process!)

Crayford Manor House (which dates back to the 14th century) has been home to numerous wealthy residents, including Sir Stevenson Arthur Blackwood KCB who lived there from 1871. Guides from Bexley Libraries Local Studies describe a zealous figure who preached against the evils of drink on Crayford Bridge! In the 20th century, visitors to the Manor were more likely to be astronomers, attending classes at the on-site observatory or as members of the International Lunar Society – apparently Sir Patrick Moore was a regular during meetings in the 1950s…

Quick Quiz: What was Crayford Town Hall’s original purpose? a) Staff canteen b) Library c) School No history of Crayford can ignore the Vickers company – once the town’s largest employer.

Built in 1915, the factory produced armaments and military planes, boasting 14000 workers during the war years. It was an extensive site and even had its own theatre, provided for workers in 1916 (and rebuilt three years later following fire damage).

Opposite the old town hall you’ll find statues of John Alcock and Arthur Brown, the first men to fly across the Atlantic non-stop in an aircraft designed at the Vickers factory.

The Second World War made quite an impression on Crayford too, with widespread bombing of local houses and schools. Suburban development, which began between the wars by the Ideal Homes Company, was halted during World War Two but continued afterwards, creating the commuter town we know today.

However, the past is never far away in Crayford (as residents found in 2013 when an unexploded mortar bomb was discovered in the town centre!)

Its Roman road, Norman church and medieval manors live on, in one form or another, if you fancy exploring some more. Just keep an eye out for those unexploded bombs…

Clair Humphries is a Script Consultant for ATS Heritage and Content Partner for Ordnance Survey.

Twitter: @clairhumphries Instagram: clair_humphries Question answer is a) it was the Vickers staff canteen and mess room.

PHOTO: CRAYFORD TOWN HALL www.dartfordbusinessdirectory.co.uk

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Travel Spotlight Tanzania & Zanzibar

by Harden Holidays Tanzania - Overlooked by the soaring Mount Kilimanjaro and enveloped by the Indian Ocean, Tanzania is home to astounding wildlife, resplendent forests and fine sandy beaches. This is a country to become immersed in true geographic splendour – you have to feel it to really believe it. We’ve travelled this ancient land full of incredible appeal to craft extraordinary tours and hand pick the best safari lodges and beach resorts for your trip.

The cradle of human civilisation, hominid fossils from six million years ago have been discovered in Tanzania. There’s nowhere else quite like it in the world to appreciate humankind, and the country’s rich cultural heritage is kept alive today by indigenous people such as the Maasai and the Chaga. While you’ll be wowed by Tanzania’s ancient roots, you’ll discover a country of modern day radiance too. A country characterised by volcanic craters and vast plains, limitless lakes and lofty rocky outcrops, the scenery is something else.

The Serengeti is part of nature’s finery in Tanzania too, where the herds of the Great Migration call ‘home’. Off the coastline, Tanzania has another jewel for you to explore – the archipelago of powder sand islands, Zanzibar.

The geographic diversity of Tanzania should not be underestimated, and you’ll quickly understand this after visiting just one of its national parks.

The Serengeti is the most famous, filmed by all the major wildlife documentary makers, where the two million animals who travel on the Great Migration spend most of their year. You’ll have a chance of spotting everything from large prides of lions to elusive leopards and black rhinos here. Elsewhere, the Ngorongoro Crater is the world’s largest volcanic caldera that encases the densest concentration of wildlife on the globe. You won’t be surprised to discover that this is both a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Wonders of Africa.

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You might be surprised to learn that the Serengeti The largest island, Zanzibar Island, is the most and the Ngorongoro Crater are just the tip of the developed with lively beaches lined with hotels. But iceberg when it comes to Tanzania’s allure. Lake there are quieter spots too, where you can simply Manyara is home to tree-climbing lions and lie on the sands and relax. Urguja, the capital, is dazzling pink flamingos, while Tarangire is where a cultural melting pot of Arab, Moorish, Persian, a huge population of elephants – sometimes up European and Indian influences. Stone Town, its to 10,000 strong – live in a landscape of striking old quarter, makes a fascinating spot for a stroll, its baobab trees. Ruaha is home to a tenth of the maze of streets dotted with fine palaces, mosques world’s lions and another huge population of and houses from the colonial era. elephants, and Selous brings an off-the-beatentrack safari experience, where even boating Zanzibar was once known as the Spice Island and safaris are possible. And Zanzibar in the glinting farmers still grow fragrant vanilla, nutmeg, cloves Indian Ocean is a place to soak up a relaxed and cinnamon. A guided spice tour is a real must; island lifestyle, snorkel in clear waters and explore a delightful way to explore the hidden corners of charming cobbled streets. this fascinating place.

Food on safari adventures in Tanzania incorporates These two destinations make for a wonderful pairing vibrant bush breakfasts, game-drive picnics for adventure and relaxation. Our recommendation and home-cooked fire-side evening meals, is to spend 8 days on a safari followed by 5-7 incorporating more than a little culinary flair. nights at a beautiful resort in Zanzibar. Why you’ll Grilled game is a favourite and is sourced locally, love this trip and you can expect pillowy chapatti bread to be served with most meals, while tropical fruit is • Encounter roaring lions and magnificent zebra in always available in abundance. On Zanzibar, the the famous Serengeti National Park as our small style is more about spice-infused fresh fish and safari vehicles get you close to the action in this seafood, as well as a wide variety of international spectacular wildlife arena. influences.

• Experience the thrill of camping among nature and drift off to sleep to the sounds of the African When to visit Tanzania night.

The variety Tanzania offers means there is always • Meet some Maasai Mamas (the name for women a good time of year to go. The warmest months artisans in Tanzania) and learn about their village are between January and March, while the rainier life, including how to prepare a local Swahili dish. months of April and May hold the appeal of • Take a mind-blowing safari across the floor of dramatic skies and more exclusive wildlife viewing. the Ngorongoro Crater for a chance to see the endangered black rhinoceros.

Zanzibar - The birthplace of rock icon Freddie • Accompanied by a local crew – a leader, driver Mercury, Zanzibar is a jewel in the Indian Ocean. and cook – you and your family are in excellent It is not just one island but an archipelago of over hands for the duration of your adventure. forty, scattered off the coast of Tanzania in East Africa. With powdery white beaches, tracts of Create lifelong memories with Harden Holidays, forest and a distinctive culture, this is the place contact our team today. to come for a holiday with a difference.

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

23

WE ARE BEAMS COLOUR DASH IS BACK BIGGER AND BETTER WITH 2 EVENTS IN 2023!

Colour Dash returns for double the fun next year schemes, day trips and respite care within our for local charity We Are Beams Dragons Retreat for children that would otherwise not be provided with these opportunities” Over 1000 fundraisers will take part in this family favourite event at 2 locations on the 25th June We Are Beams is a local charity based in Hextable. at Jeskyns Park, Gravesend and 9th July at The disabled children and young people who Swanley Park. access We Are Beams services will typically have one or multiple learning difficulties, complex Fundraisers can toddle, walk, run or jog around health needs, physical or sensory impairment, the rainbow coloured 5k run. The course is super challenging behaviour, Autism or severe ADHD. family friendly and wheelchair accessible with Each year We Are Beams needs to raise £2 million a shorter 2.5K route too but please be prepared in order to provide care to over 450 families in Kent. to get messy!

SAVE 10% on Entry with code LIVING10 All proceeds from the event will go towards To enter please visit www.wearebeams.org.uk/ supporting disabled children and their families events-challenges/ through the charity’s care support services including Family Advice, Respite Care and Summer Event Information Play schemes.

Sunday 25th June Jeskyns Park, Gravesend DA12 3AN Sunday 9 July 9.30am All the runners start in white but at every 1km; they Swanley Park, New Barn Rd, Swanley BR8 7PW tackle a different coloured powder so the finish line is a rainbow of colours!

Entry Fees Adult: £15 Luke Cashin, Fundraiser at Beams explains how Child (12-17 years old): £12 events like these are so important to the charity, Child (11 years old and under): £6 “After a really successful event last year we are Family (2 adults and 2 children under 11): £38 so excited to be back with the Colour Dash events Beams are also looking for local companies in 2023 and having 2 locations in Kent will allow that could support the event through a range of even more people to come and join the fun! sponsorship opportunities.

All the donations will help to provide holiday play 24

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CALLING ALL ART LOVERS! South East Open Studios 2023 is launching with a LIVE art competition

Meet local artists and makers and watch them work

RSVP to info@seos-art.org to secure your place in the audience

30 MAY, 5 - 7PM

THE MICK JAGGER CENTRE, DARTFORD

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ARTWORK BY SARAH YOUSEMAN

25

LIFE UNDER THE STAIRS

By Jane Stevenson

yet further housing areas. I really hope for the sake of those living outside the town, someone, somewhere sees sense.

A TALE OF TWO CAFES When I lived in Dartford I enjoyed taking time out for a coffee and cake at some of the many outlets available. My chosen place was Esquire’s. Other Half and I were always sure of a warm welcome from the owner and staff, service with a smile, and good coffee.

No one else ever spoke to us. Few looked up from their phones, tablets, or books to offer a greeting. We accepted it and kept to our own little bubble. It was quite an insular experience.

When we moved, I was prepared for the same level of tolerance rather than involvement.

Many years ago I lived in south London, where a similar culture existed. People didn’t interact.

Spending the latter part of 2022 and a winter BACK IN THE ‘HOOD I read with a sense of impending doom friends’ here has opened my eyes to what is a new posts regarding the sale of farmland in the experience for me.

Hawley area. Those still living there have seen so much of their community go: the downward We spend a great deal of time at a place called spiral and closure of the local pubs; the sale The Boathouse, a café/bar set right on the of the garden centre and now the farmland. beach near our home. It is run by two sisters Ominously, I heard planning permission has and their family. In high summer, the place is been sought for one area of the fields. I have heaving with holidaymakers, walkers and dogs! no idea of knowing how true this is. I always Towards the end of the season, trade is slower. understood the area was for arable use only, During the winter only a few tourists, the hardy dog walkers and the local people make the and I hope it remains so. journey to this off the track place.

Outer Dartford, the smaller semi-rural areas have been left out of the Master Plan for the town. Transport services eroded; local amenities stopped. It would be such a shame if these quieter, greener areas became just another annexe of Greater London – which given the introduction of the impending ULEZ charge I fear is the plan for Dartford.

We need our green spaces. Where else can we walk our dogs, work our allotments, or simply admire the open spaces we have. Many of you rediscovered country paths and walks by our river during the pandemic. It would be detrimental to people, if those places became 26

It transforms from a busy thriving business to a small but vibrant meeting place. Any time we walk in we are guaranteed to see people we know, lunching, grabbing a coffee or tea and a snack. Everyone is made to feel welcome.

The cafe becomes a community hub out of season; somewhere you can take the dog (who will receive a sausage or biscuit pot) meet up with friends and warm up by the log burner.

The infectious giggling from one of the sisters, is guaranteed to cheer anyone up. Behind the scenes, the other sister produces excellent meals, filling and done to your own liking.

Nothing is too much trouble for them. The food

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is excellent and has the views to match. I enjoy sitting in the place, staring out over the sea to the New Forest. It’s calming.

People get involved with each other. We are a disparate group of customers; retired folk, local families, animal lovers, bikers, hardy walkers and ‘newbies’ – those who have chosen to relocate to this quiet little island. Conversation is varied, loud and open to all. People listen to each other and try to help. Leaflets about events are shared; suggestions and possible solutions given to life’s hiccups. News and views are debated. Opinions shared. Everyone is valued.

To be part of such a community is reassuring and comforting, especially as we left family on the mainland to move to an area we loved but knew few people.

The Boathouse offers not only somewhere to sit quietly and watch the peaceful rhythm of the waves but gives life and vibrance to a local community. Best of both worlds, eh?

Stay safe people

Dartford’s premier private practice, serving Dartford community since the 1980s Did you know we are accepting new patients to our practice?

Our award-winning team of highly qualified Clinicians, Hygienists, Orthodontic Specialists, Oral Surgery Specialists and experienced support staff are waiting to look after you and your oral health. Our Practice offers state of the art equipment, the latest treatment techniques and in-house specialists, ensuring minimally invasive treatments and preventative oral hygiene services.

To welcome you to our practice, we have a special offer: New Patient Exam £60 instead of our usual price of £75 (Offer valid until 30/04/23)

We also offer: Specialist and Special Interest Dentistry: Braces, Root Treatments, Implants • Cosmetic Dentistry: Invisalign, Composite Bonding, Smile Makeovers • Denplan Membership options and interest free finance to help spread costs • Saturday Appointments To take advantage of either offer, please call 01322 223 927 to book your appointment, quoting DLOFFER23 •

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Gareth Johnson, Member of Parliament for Dartford For assistance or a surgery appointment, please contact me at: Email: gareth.johnson.mp@ parliament.uk Telephone 020 7219 7047 www.dartfordbusinessdirectory.co.uk

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Set sail for

s ’ l i c n u o C h g u o r o B d r o Dartf

R e e n a c c u y a B

B

Cent ral Park • Dart ford 30

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www.dartford.gov.uk/events Dartford Together

welovedartford

Free concerts ON sundays, 2pm-4pm the bandstand in Central Park 30 Apr The Heroes Band

2 Jul Essex Yeomanry Band

7 May Dartford Concert Band

9 Jul Harmonie Concert Band

14 May Orpington Band

23 Jul Steelasophical Steel Drum Band

21 May Kent Police Band

30 Jul Medway Concert Band

28 May Tilbury Band

6 Aug Gravesend Swing Band

4 Jun Aveley and Newham Band

13 Aug The Emeralds Community Steel Band

11 Jun Bromley Concert Band

20 Aug UK Paper Band Sittingbourne

18 Jun East Peckham Silver Band

27 Aug The Invicta Jazz Orchestra

25 Jun Second Wind Concert Band

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

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

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

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WALKING WITH THE DARTS

by Chris Palmer

Men’s team photos by Carol White-Griffiths, Women’s` team photos: 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.

hectic for those within the Bericote Powerhouse Princes Park family. Games have been arriving thick and fast and, as soon as one has been dealt with, we’re preparing for the next! At the time of writing this piece, we are preparing to travel to By the time you read these words, the season will Concord Rangers on Thursday evening, before be over and done with and we’ll know whether we’ll entertaining St Albans City forty-eight hours later! be playing National League football or remaining Then it’s off to Hampton & Richmond Borough for in the insanely competitive National League South. the final game of the normal campaign, before It truly does boggle the mind how fast time flies, we tackle the play-offs. And, provided we secure especially when the football season is in full flow! that important second position, we’ll have home It seems like only last month I was writing about advantage. the club’s hopes and dreams for the upcoming campaign, yet that was ten months ago!

So, what’s been going on at Dartford FC since I last wrote in these pages? Well, like I said, it’s been As you can imagine, things have been rather hectic. In order to help with the injuries and amount

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of games left to play, manager Alan Dowson dipped into the transfer market before deadline day to bolster the squad. Emmanuel Adebowale, Richard Chin, and Bobby Dunn arrived and have been ready to help get us over the line.

whereby a last-minute screamer from Shauni Griffiths earned them a point.

Lizzie Adams and Co hope to knuckle down and finish the season unbeaten, after having endured an inconsistent campaign themselves. However, Unfortunately, our recent form has been a little despite their league form suffering a little, the inconsistent during the last month with three wins ladies have experienced a superb, record-breaking (Dulwich Hamlet, Dover Athletic, and Tonbridge campaign this term. They reached the Second Angels) and three defeats (Chelmsford City, Round Proper of the FA Cup for the first time in their Eastbourne Borough, and Taunton Town). However, history and have defended last season’s success we are still ahead of the chasing pack and second in the League Cup brilliantly, having reached the position is in our own hands. Plus, we have remained Cup Final once again! They will face Worthing at unbeaten in all Kent derbies this season, doing Sutton United’s stadium on the 30th of April, so the league double over Dover Athletic, Ebbsfleet be sure to get there and show them your support.

United, and Tonbridge Angels, whilst getting four points out of Welling United.

As always, thank you for your continued support and thanks for reading.

Meanwhile, Connor Dymond’s Dartford FC Women side have been away from action for a welldeserved Easter break. They returned to the pitch recently with a 1-1 draw at Saltdean United FC,

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TRADITIONAL (SPRING) CLEANING TIPS

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 of Home Instead Dartford.

Despite all the powerful new cleaning products available on the shelves today that use advanced chemical technology and sophisticated ingredients, many cleaning jobs can be just as effectively done using “old-fashioned cleaning remedies”. These are tried and tested methods that have been passed down from generation to generation and are just as effective today as they were before the invention of fancy and expensive cleaners and sprays.

Removing limescale from kettles: There’s nothing like a good cup of tea. To keep your kettle clean and free from limescale, just boil the kettle and switch it off. Then, add two tablespoons of citric acid powder and leave to cool. Once it has cooled off, pour the solution down the sink and re-boil the kettle twice with fresh water. This traditional fix not only dissolves the limescale, but also prolongs the life of the kettle.

Cleaning a wooden chopping board: All you need is some coarse salt and a lemon. Simply sprinkle the board with coarse salt, scour the surface with half a cut lemon, squeezing to release the juice and leave it for five minutes. Then, scrape the residue off the board and rinse with a clean wet sponge.

Cleaning your washing machine: Rid your washing machine from mould and musty smells with a vinegar rinse once in a while. All you have to do is add a cup of white vinegar to the drum of the washing machine and do an empty wash on the hottest cycle. Do this every 2-3 months to keep things fresh and fragrant.

Cleaning windows: White vinegar (a natural disinfectant and deodoriser) and newspaper will give you windows that sparkle and shine. Mix one part white vinegar with one part warm water in a spray bottle and spray on to your windows.

Then, polish your windows using crumpled newspaper. Don’t use vinegar on frosted glass or leaded glass windows.

The next time you need to do some household cleaning, don’t rush out to buy a host of harsh chemical cleaners. It is amazing what simple household items such as lemons, salt and bicarbonate of soda can do. Not only are they better for the environment but they are often better for your purse too!

To make a suggestion for a future topic, please write to me at c.uppenkamp@dartford. homeinstead.co.uk or by post to Home Instead Dartford, St Fidelis House, St Fidelis Road, DA8 1AT.

Natural carpet freshener: Here’s a simple solution to remove wet dog and stale smells from your carpet; sprinkle a light dusting of bicarbonate of soda onto the carpet before vacuuming to remove smells and freshen the room.

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By Dhiren Ganesh In this month’s article we look at new electric large, airline-style seats in the rear that can vehicles coming in this year. even lie horizontally to make sleeping easier.

Further highlights to ensure comfort include a 48in entertainment screen and a refrigerator.

Lexus says it has designed all seats in the LM to counter any unwelcome swaying encountered while driving. It will be powered by a 2.5-litre petrol engine coupled to a hybrid system. Luxury kit list means that prices are expected to be high with an estimated starting price of around £100,000 when available in Autumn 2023.

2023 Renault Clio - The Renault Clio has undergone a small but significant change – it’s now offered solely with hybrid power to align to other small cars in the market. The Clio’s ‘E-Tech’ hybrid system is carried over and produces 143bhp but with slightly lower CO2 emissions. It will only be offered in an automatic gearbox with the same engines as before however the looks have had a revamp. Its new nose incorporates new full-LED headlights and a chequered grille bearing Renault’s new simplified logo. Inside, entry-level models have a 7.0in in infotainment touchscreen, with a 9.3in touchscreen offered on upper trims, whilst all get smartphone mirroring. Available from May 2023 prices are expected to start from £22,000. 2023 Porsche Cayenne - Porsche Cayenne gets upgraded engines and more tech as standard.

This will be the final version of the Cayenne to be powered by internal combustion with 3.0 litre 348bhp and 4.0 litre 468bhp engines available.

The Cayenne E-Hybrid plug-in hybrid (PHEV) has been increased with its electric motor uprated to 174bhp. The future versions of the Cayenne will be all-electric. The looks have only been tweaked with Matrix LED headlights a new addition. Inside, Wireless smartphone charging is now standard together with more leg room for passengers. Also as standard will be adaptive suspension to enable stiffening for a sportier feel. The updated Porsche Cayenne will cost 2023 Lexus LM revealed – this is the MPV for from around £79,000 when on sale in July 2023. both four and seven-seat forms, powered by a hybrid engine with luxury. LM stands for Luxury Mover so the four-seat model features two 36

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DARTFORD FC COMMUNITY FUNDAY

SUNDAY 11TH JUNE 2023 10AM TO 2PM Dartford Steel Band Music Second Chance Animal Rescue DFCSupporters' Association Tombola DFC women Cyclety Group Other stalls Kevin the Dart Lavinia Cookies and Honey Face - Painting The Balloon Man Bouncy Castle Penalty Shoot - Out Bat and Trap Music with DJ Paul Jenkins

Junior Section Football Community Presentation Paul Page Golf Dart Burger Bar Champions' Bar DFC Club Shop Open Meet available players Nature Trail Meet the Mayor of Dartford

FREE ADMISSION Bericote PowerHousewww.dartfordbusinessdirectory.co.uk Princes Park Stadium, Darent Road, DA1 1RT

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Dave Fulton Comedian, Actor, Director Dave Fulton has it all; irony, a sardonic turn of phrase, an amazingly relaxed stage presence and the intelligence to casually riff with the British audiences that have adopted this shaggy American joker.

The Seattle-based comedian has played clubs from San Francisco to New York, and notched up many TV credits ranging from Half Hour Comedy Hour (MTV), ShowTime and An Evening At The Improv (A&E) to a cutting-edge US programme called Comedy Explorers where he was filmed floating down the Grand Canyon. He’s also been seen entertaining crowds as far away as Hong Kong and Cape Town, South Africa.

Dave is opinionated, isn’t afraid to pull punches in his observations, yet has a deceptively laid-back stage manner that disguises a raw aggression. A varied melting pot of issues that sometimes even he doesn’t want to explore.

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This is unmissable comedy from one of the most dynamic and innovative comedians breaking on the comedy circuit at the moment. His mother would never have thought it possible from someone who holds a Masters in Music Composition.

Recent television appearances vary from BBC 2’s The ‘Stand Up Show’ to Channel 5’s ‘The Comedy Store’ on which he took the roof off the prestigious club with his highly inventive perspective on life. You’ll have also spotted Dave on BBC2’s Never Mind the Buzzcocks and Steve Coogan’s Saxondale.

As always there’s a great supporting line-up direct from the London Comedy Circuit.

Book Early - Limited Availability!

For more information visit https://www.houseofstandup.co.uk/dartford/ Ticket prices are £15.00 each, £12.50 for a group of 4 and just £10.00 each for a group of six adults.

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by Bhavesh Ganesh If Todd Boehly believed visiting Chelsea’s dressing room to deliver some home truths would inspire a Champions League miracle against Real Madrid he was, as he has been so often since arriving at Stamford Bridge, very much mistaken.

Co-owner Boehly decided it was time for the personal touch after a home loss to Brighton, although reportedly telling Chelsea’s players their season had been “embarrassing” was not quite the morale-booster he maybe hoped for.

It also does not help that one of the main causes of Chelsea’s current predicament is the scattergun strategy and wacky transfer spree from their owners that has taken them to mid-table in the Premier League and out of the Champions League at the hands of Real Madrid, who are always happy to apply brutal reality to any romantic notions.

Hefty responsibility also now lies with the cosporting directors, who felt Graham Potter’s time had to end and who have been leading the search for a new manager. In previous years, under the ownership of Roman Abramovich, Chelsea cracked the code on in how to not only Rock Painting Dartford. survive but thrive amid much managerial churn

and transfer dealings.

Not this time.

Sporting events in May include: 5: Athletics - Doha Diamond League, Qatar 7: Formula 1 - United States Grand Prix, Miami 14: Football - Women’s FA Cup final, Wembley Stadium 18-21: Golf - US PGA Championship, Oak Hill Country Club, New York 19: Rugby Union - European Challenge Cup final, Aviva Stadium, Dublin 20: Rugby Union - European Champions Cup final, Aviva Stadium, Dublin 20: Athletics - Night of the 10,000m PBs, London 20-21: Rugby Union - World Sevens Series, London leg 21: Formula 1 - Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, Imola 27: Rugby Union - Premiership final, Twickenham 27-29: Football - EFL Play-off finals, Wembley Stadium 28: Formula 1 - Monaco Grand Prix, Monte Carlo 28 May-11 June: Tennis - French Open, Roland Garros, Paris 31: Europa League final, Puskas Arena, Budapest

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

re are some great photos of their painted rocks.

By Maria Kingsford

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

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

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39

BLOOD PRESSURE: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

By Dr Julie Taylor

blood pressure can lead to heart failure over time, where the pumping action of the heart is reduced.

• Studies have shown that people aged 40-64 who have high blood pressure are more likely to develop vascular dementia.

• More than half of people with chronic kidney disease have high blood pressure – it is the leading cause.

• High blood pressure can also affect the blood vessels at the back of your eye (retina), making them narrow and leaky, which can cause problems with your eye sight. It is also related to other eye problems that can affect your vision including blockage of small arteries and veins and age related macular degeneration.

• Damage to blood vessels means that men with hypertension are twice as likely to develop erectile dysfunction.

This is why your GP surgery may contact you to check your blood pressure if you are over 40.

Blood pressure is a measurement of the force Blood pressure – the silent killer required to push blood around your body. When Around 30% of the population have high blood we measure blood pressure, we get two numbers. pressure but many don’t realise. High blood The top number is the systolic blood pressure, pressure rarely has symptoms, so the only way which is the highest your blood pressure gets you will know is to have your blood pressure when the heart beats pushing blood around your checked. Many community pharmacies around body. The bottom number is your diastolic blood Dartford offer free blood pressure tests. Some pressure, which is the pressure as your heart surgeries have a blood pressure pod in their reception areas for patients to use. You can also relaxes between beats. use a friend or relatives blood pressure machine for a quick check.

What do these numbers mean?

Ideally, your blood pressure should be between 90/60 and 120/80. High blood pressure If your blood pressure is raised, but not dangerously (hypertension) is anything above 140/90. This high (180/110), we will request some blood tests to is the point at which your risk of serious health see how your kidneys are working and to check problems as a result of high blood pressure can for other risk factors such as diabetes and high go up. Only one of these numbers need to be cholesterol. We may start you on medication raised for you to have high blood pressure. But to bring down your blood pressure and we will we don’t rely on just one reading. Many things monitor this with blood pressure checks and can affect your blood pressure reading, from blood tests at least yearly. when you last ate, the temperature and whether you are stressed.

What can I do to keep my blood pressure low?

Why do we worry about high blood pressure? Having a healthy lifestyle is important. Being If your blood pressure is high, that means that active, getting to a healthy weight and stopping there is extra stress on your blood vessels and smoking are important. Follow a balanced diet your heart has to work harder to pump blood with five portions of fruit or veg a day, reduce around the body. Your blood vessels, which are your salt and saturated fat intake. Cut back on normally stretchy, become stiff or narrow. This alcohol and make sure you get enough sleep. makes it easier for fatty material (atheroma) to build up, narrowing them further. This can cause DR JULIE TAYLOR IS A GP PARTNER AT THE other problems.

WELLCOME PRACTICE DARTFORD, CLINICAL DIRECTOR OF DARTFORD MODEL PCN AND • High blood pressure plays a part in 50% of strokes A BOARD MEMBER OF THE DARTFORD, and heart attacks. In fact, high blood pressure is SWANLEY AND GRAVESHAM INTEGRATED CARE the biggest risk factor for stroke.

PARTNERSHIP. • The additional strain on the heart caused by high 40

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Steve Cook postcard final:Layout 1

27/1/14

12:15

Page 1

STEVE COOK DOUBLE GLAZING SERVICING, REPAIRS AND INSTALLATION OVER 30 YEARS’ EXPERIENCE

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Mob: 07747 015223 Tel: 01322 412791 45 Knole Road, Dartford, Kent. DA1 3JN. E-mail: stevecook3@icloud.com *New address*

• Misted, cracked or broken glass • Drafts, leaks & condensation • Sticking, loose or broken handles • Window/doors not opening, closing • Patio doors not running smoothly • Cat flap & letterbox fitting/replacement • Lock and key replacement

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KEEPING BUSINESS LOCAL Charity No. 1148298

FREE VOLUNTEER TRAINING Home-Start are recruiting new volunteer parents of any age, background, culture or gender to attend a free 40-hour course of preparation beginning

Friday 12th May 10.00 – 2.00

[ then a further nine Fridays until 21st July ]

Subjects covered include ADDICTION, DEPRESSION, LISTENING SKILLS, LOSS, PARENTING SKILLS, LEARNING THROUGH PLAY, CHILD PROTECTION, SPECIAL NEEDS Following training (plus DBS checks + references) individual volunteers will be ‘matched’ with isolated vulnerable local families with pre-school children – to home visit for 2-3 hours per week offering emotional and/or practical parent-to-parent support.

Travel expenses are paid and ongoing supervision / training provided www.homestartnwkent.org.uk

CALL 01322 225 100 for details or email office@homestartnwkent.org.uk

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LOCAL AUTHORITIES

EDUCATION

BUSINESS

We Design. We Print. We Deliver.

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

01322 288627 l darenthprint.co.uk

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COMMUNITY CHURCH FA I T H

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Invites you TO CHURCH Sunda y’s 10:30AM WOULD YOU LIKE US TO PRAY FOR YOU? EMAIL US: CROSSWAYSCOMMMUNITYCHURCH@MAIL.COM OR VISIT US ON SOCIALS

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CORONATION 9. In Season 5 of the Netflix drama series The Crown, which actor portrayed the mature Prince Charles?

A Greg Wise B Dominic West C Matt Baker

10. In 1969, where was Prince Charles invested as Prince of Wales?

A Cardiff Castle B Conwy Castle C Caernarfon Castle

Photo: LWPA Pool / Pool via Getty Images

1. King Charles was the first member of the Royal Family to gain a university degree. Where did he attend?

A Cambridge B Oxford C Edinburgh

2. In which building was King Charles born in 1948?

A Balmoral Castle B Buckingham Palace C Windsor Castle

3. In 1976, Prince Charles began 10 months of active service in which arm of the military?

A The RAF B The Royal Navy C Royal Marines

4. As well as being the Prince of Wales, Prince Charles was duke of which English county?

A Kent B Gloucester C Cornwall

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5. What piece of music has become synoymous with coronations since it was written by Handel for King George II’s coronation?

A Für Elise B Nessun Dorma C Zadok the Priest 6. Organic foods are marketed by King Charles under which brand?

A Duchy Originals B Cornwall Originals C Windsor Originals 7. King Charles was the first grandchild of which king?

A George VI B George V C King Edward VIII 8. In 1966, Prince Charles attended school for seven months in which Australian city?

A Sydney B Geelong C Melbourne www.dartfordliving.com

11. Prince Charles and Camilla Parker Bowles were married in a civil ceremony, at Windsor Guildhall, in which year?

A 2001 B 2005 C 2011

12. What was the signature dish created for the Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II? A Coronation Chicken B Coronation Curry C Coronation Cake

13. A species of which animal was named after Prince Charles?

A Frog B Carp C Pigeon

14. At 73, King Charles became the oldest person to accede to the British throne. Who held this record before him?

A King Edward VII B King George IV C King William IV

QUIZ

How much do you know about our new monarch?

BUCKINGHAM PALACE Five questions about the King’s official London residence 1. Buckingham Palace became the London residence of the British monarch on the accession of which ruler?

ROYAL RESIDENCES Can you unscramble the letters to find out ten current royal residences?

1. ACE CHOSEN RuLE

2. LAuNCH MAGPIE BACK 3. CAD ENLISTS ROW

4. REGGAE TO COMFORT

5. uNNAMED SOARS HIGH 6. LLAMA BOLTS RACE 7. PACK METRO BAG

8. SPANGLE ICON TAKEN

9. HOE ROuGHISH VEG 10. RACy AD LOOPHOLE

2. How many Royal and guest bedrooms are there in Buckingham Palace?

3. Which architect designed the Royal Mews, where the royal carriages, including the Gold State Coach, are housed?

4. In 1761, King George III acquired what was then Buckingham House as a private residence for whom?

5. During World War II, a German bomb destroyed which part of the palace that was rebuilt as the Queen’s Gallery?

SOLUTIONS

Coronation Quiz: 1 – A; 2 – B; 3 – B; 4 – C; 5 – C; 6 – A; 7 – A; 8 – B; 9 – B; 10 – C; 11 – B; 12 – A; 13 – A; 14 – C. Buckingham Palace Quiz: 1 Queen Victoria; 2 52; 3 John Nash; 4 Queen Charlotte; 5 The Palace Chapel.

Anagram Solver: 1 Clarence House; 2 Buckingham Palace; 3 Windsor Castle; 4 Frogmore Cottage; 5 Sandringham House; 6 Balmoral Castle; 7 Gatcombe Park; 8 Kensington Palace; 9 High grove House; 10 Holyrood Palace

Photo: Lisa Sheridan / Stringer via Getty Images

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Craft Frames Quality Pict ure Frami ng

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

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

Well Worth a Visit!

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

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What to do:

CORONATION CRUMBLE (AND CUSTARD)

By Debbie Dickinson

Everyone loves crumble and custard – so I’m sure King Charles would love this recipe!

I’m not sure everyone knows how easy it is to make from scratch at home!

I have beautiful Rhubarb in my garden now – so it’s great to use seasonal fruit as much as possible. As always this recipe can be adapted to use whatever fruit – fresh or frozen – you have available You will need: 5 Stems of Rhubarb (about 650g) 1-2 tbsp Sugar Ginger (optional) 100g Plain Flour 50g Block Butter (chilled) 50g Sugar (Ideally Soft Brown) 25g Oats/Granola 25g Chopped Mixed Nuts (optional) For the Custard: 2 Eggs (Yolks only) 20g Sugar 2 tsp Cornflour 400ml Milk 1 tsp Vanilla Extract (optional)

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Chop the Rhubarb into inch sized pieces and place in an ovenproof casserole dish.

Sprinkle the Sugar on top and grate Ginger (about ½ - 1 thumb sized piece) over the sugar.

Put the Plain Flour into a large bowl and chop the chilled Butter into small bits. Using just your fingertips, rub the butter into the flour until it resembles breadcrumbs. Add the Sugar, Oats and Mixed Nuts (if using).

Mix to combine.

Spoon the crumble mix over the rhubarb and bake in the oven at 180 °C for about 30 minutes until the top is nicely golden brown.

To make the Custard, heat the Milk in a saucepan until just starting to boil – stirring to ensure the milk doesn’t burn. Then put aside while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.

Whisk the Egg Yolks together with the Sugar and the Cornflour until smooth and creamy.

Add the Vanilla Extract.

Slowly pour the hot milk into the egg mix – whisking as you go.

Pour the mix back into the saucepan and heat gently until the custard thickens. You must watch the saucepan and stir regularly - if the pan gets too hot, the custard could easily burn at the bottom of the pan.

Serve together – be careful as the Rhubarb mix will be very hot when it comes out of the oven!

Enjoy!

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they see, hear, touch, taste and smell.

Sneak a peek, it's all amazing!

Most babies learn best when they see, hear, touch, taste and smell. Our multi-award winning classes will introduce you and your baby (or babies) to a world of sensory delights, where you can relax, spend quality time with each other and enjoy meeting other new parents.

Specifically designed from birth to aid your child's development, the programme is packed with an incredible variety of sound, smells, sights, textures, music, dance, signing and massage - and you'll never experience the same class twice!

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WOW Centre Greenhithe Monday, Thursday & Friday Old Gravesendians RFC Wednesday

Contact: 07952579044 nwkent@babysensory.co.uk www.babysensory.com

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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, Cross Road, 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 10.30 - 11.00am. “Baby Bounce & Rhyme” at Fleetdown Library. Music and fun for babies and pre-schoolers. No charge. Term time only. All are welcome - just turn up!

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 Mummy’s Linkup: 10am – 2pm on the 2nd Friday of each month, Tree Community Centre Mummy’s Linkup : 10am – 12noon on the 4th Friday of each month., Temple Hill Community Centre 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 LITTLE LEARNERS NORTH WEST KENT

Award winning messy play and mark-making classes across North West Kent for ages 5 months to 5 years.

We learn how to write through messy play, scribbling & more! Our classes provide ample sensory development opportunities and focus on developing children’s pre-writing skills and all the important little muscles involved in this. Contact Aisha at aisha@littlelearnersuk.com or visit the website to book a class. Littlelearnersuk.com 50

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LOCAL CLUBS AND ASSOCIATIONS IN AND AROUND DARTFORD 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, KINDNESS AND WELLBEING GROUP learning and mental health difficulties. For It’s every Tuesday 9.30-11.30am at St Edmund’s more information, attend a taster session church Dartford. We have loads on offer for just £3 or visit our community lunch club, contact per week including a cuppa, crafts and a friendly Caroline on 01322 837172 or 07570 347612 chat.

AGE UK, CRAYFORD LIBRARY POP IN PARLOUR COFFEE MORNING every Friday morning 10.30 12.30 Tea, Coffee, Biscuits and a chat - Just £1 BEXLEY AND DARTFORD BRANCH PARKINSONS UK For people with Parkinsons and their carers.

Dartford: 2nd Wednesday of each month, Mick Jagger Centre, 7 -9pm. Information support workers available, guest speakers and quizzes.

Contact Wendy Leach. Tel: 02083065973 THE WELLBEING LINK The Wellbeing Link meets on Friday mornings from 10-1pm in the St. Anselm’s Parish Centre, 89 West Hill, Dartford A friendly and informative group is a support group for people with any life affecting health issues from loneliness and isolation to life limiting conditions. - call Julie On 07775875585

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

Meets the first Wednesday of every month at the Masonic Hall, West Hill, Dartford from 1012pm.Activities include guest speakers, outings, lunches, holidays and quizzes. For more information contact Marion on 01322 402967 WHEELCHAIR EPEE FENCING Wheelchair epee fencing in Dartford and Gravesham, we are delighted to announce that New Ash Green Epee club, can now introduce wheelchair fencing. If interested in taking up this para sport please contact us on 01474 871484 or alternatively look at our website www. nagfencing.eu

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

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

20S 30S DARTFORD BEXLEYHEATH SURROUNDING AREAS SOCIAL GROUP more LITTLE TIGERS - KARATE FOR 3, 4 & 5 YEAR OLDS information visit: Sundays 10:15-10:45 at Swanscombe Leisure www.meetup.com/20s-30s-DartfordCentre.

Bexleyheath-surrounding-areas-social-group/ Call Saj on 07903 513104 DARTFORD U3A (UNIVERSITY OF THE THIRD AGE) meets on the first Tuesday of every month (ex- DARTFORD GYMNASTICS Celebrating 50 years. cept August) at St Anselm’s Church Hall, West Hill, Dartford at 2pm, For information about Based in Heath Lane, we are a friendly club meetings and interest groups visit with super equipment, great coaches and high u3asites.org.uk/dartford/welcome standards. We do lots of competitions and we do not close through the holidays! www.dartfordbusinessdirectory.co.uk

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starting at 8:15 until 9:00 costing £5 per person.

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

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 FAIRFIELD (DARTFORD) WI We meet on the second Tuesday of the month at Dartford Girls Grammar School at 7.30pm.

Activities include guest speakers, theatre visits and monthly lunches. New members welcome.

For more information please call Judith on 01322 278703 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.

HOP LIKE IT’S HOT - AT STONE PAVILION A fun (different) circuit based workout with space hoppers that challenges core stability, balance and strength. It is suitable for all levels and abilities. Classes are held every Wednesday evening at the stone pavilion 52

HAWLEY AND SUTTON AT HONE ACTIVE RETIREMENT ASSOCIATION is a friendly group of retired and semi-retired men and women over 55. We have a monthly meeting on the second Thursday at Sutton at Hone Scout Hut at 1.30pm. Associated activities include petanque, keep fit, short mat bowls, country walks and ten pin bowling. Come along to a meeting [£2 entrance] or call Carol on 07912 564710. You will receive a warm welcome.

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 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

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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

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.

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.

DARTFORD MUSIC SCHOOL Want to learn to play or sing?

For all ages and abilities, we have something for you.

We offer a variety of music learning activities based at The Mick Jagger Centre including Individual Instrumental Lessons, group sessions with Red Rooster, Dartford Youth Choir and DMS Orchestra!

For more information please visit our website centralparkathletics.co.uk

What’s stopping you?

Webpage: www.themickjaggercentre.com/ dartford-music-school Email: DMS@themickjaggercentre.com Follow us: Twitter @Dartford_Music Instagram @dartfordmusicschool Facebook: Dartford Music School

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 phoDARTFORD HARRIERS ATHLETICS CLUB tographic experience to our friendly meetings.

Dartford Harriers is among the leading athletics You can attend several meetings as a guest clubs in Kent, with a history stretching back to before taking out membership which enables the 1920’s, making it one of the oldest clubs in you to become a fully-fledged member and the country. If you are interested in seeing how enter competitions. Our website is dartphoto. we can help you advance your Athletics then org.uk. We have a spacious hall which enables please visit our website us to meet “socially distanced” in the present environment. We hope to meet you soon. http://www.dartfordharriersac.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 WILMARA WILMINGTON ACTIVE RETIREMENT Free first session with this advert GROUP. We are an active retirement group who meet SO LET’S GO RUNNING (SLGR) on the third Friday of the month from 2pm till SLGR is a local running club with structured 4pm at the Memorial Hall in Wilmington. Our training sessions designed to improve runners activities include guest speakers, outings, speed and stamina. holidays, theatre trips, tenpin bowling, Petanque, Kurling, indoor sports activities and a lunch club. Please come along and pay us a The runs available are the free session at 7pm visit you will be very welcome! meeting at the Cricket club in Hesketh Park for 5 and 8k runs every Tuesday. Open to everyone Telephone Membership Secretary. and suitable for all abilities including beginners. Wendy Murray 01322 226943 We have run couch to 5k before covid and hope to do another in the Spring.

NORTH KENT EMBROIDERERS Our affiliated club meets on Thursdays and Learn new techniques, make friends and enjoy Sundays and is also fully inclusive of all interesting talks, workshops and demonabilities. strations. Absolute beginners and more You can find more information on our website experienced stitchers welcome. We meet teamslgr.com or email us at slgr.contact@ on the third Saturday of every month except gmail.com August from 2-4pm in Southfleet Village Hall, Southfleet, Gravesend, DA13 9NX or by Zoom if necessary. Visitors are very welcome.

YOGA & MEDITATION CLASSES Every Tuesday from 6-7pm &Thursday from

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website: www.northkentembroiderers.co.uk email: info@northkentembroiderers.co.uk phone: Eileen on 01474 324734 DARTFORD CHORAL SOCIETY A warm welcome awaits newcomers to Dartford’s oldest choir - established over 100 years ago. We rehearse on Monday evenings between 7.30pm and 9.30pm at The Mick Jagger Centre, Shepherds Lane, from September to June and perform four concerts annually. Just turn up to sample the delights of choral singing! For more information please contact the Chairman, Pat Everington. Tel: 01322 220124.

DARTFORD HISTORICAL & ANTIQUARIAN SOCIETY meets usually on 3rd Friday in the month ( October to May) at the Mick Jagger Centre, Shepherds Lane, Dartford at 7.30 p.m. See website for details.

HARTLEY POETRY SOCIETY If you enjoy reading and/or writing poetry you will be given a warm welcome by this friendly and enthusiastic group. We meet on the first Monday of each month at 7pm at The Pavilion, Punch Croft Road, New Ash Green in the Green Room. We read poems according to a different theme each month and there is also plenty of lively discussion. For further information please phone Kathryn (01474

704058) ROTARY CLUB OF DARTFORD This Club meets at the Royal Victoria and Bull Hotel on the first, second and third Tuesday of every month.

Time: 12.45 for 1 pm start.

If you would like further details please contact the Secretary on 07706103706.

ORCHARDS SCALE MODEL CLUB Tuesday 6pm - 9pm The Meeting Place, Orchards Shopping Centre Dartford, DA1 1DN All types of scale modellers welcome. Fees £1 per person per visit.

HESKETH PARK BOWLING CLUB Park Road, Dartford DA1 1ST Open from: April-September Come along and have a go at bowls CRAYFORD WI Baker Trust Hall, Maxim Road, Crayford DA1 4BG 1.30pm to 3.30pm lst Thursday of the month

ST ALBAN’S AND ST EDMUND’S CHURCH GROUPS St Alban’s Church - Stepping Stones’ Toddler Group @ St Alban’s Church, St Alban’s Road, Dartford DA1 3FT Wednesday’s from 8:30am – 11:30am.

- Community Café Coffee Morning @ St Alban’s Church (Tuesdays) , St Alban’s Road, Dartford DA1 1FT, 10am – 12noon. Drinks, sausage or bacon sarnies, scones, fruit, friends and chat.

- Knit & Natter @ St Alban’s Church, St Alban’s Road, Dartford DA1 1FT 10:00am – 11:30am, on the first and third Saturdays of the month. Come and knit, learn to crochet (or teach someone else), have a coffee and a lot of nattering!

St Edmund’ Church - Kindness and Wellbeing Group @ St Edmund’s Church, St Edmund’s Road, Temple Hill, Dartford DA1 5ND - Tuesday’s from 9:30am – 11:30am. Make new friends, chat over a cuppa, mindfulness and well being resources and support.

- Café @ St Edmund’s Church, St Edmund’s Road, Temple Hill, Dartford DA1 5ND Thursdays from 10am – 12noon - Over 60’s Club @ St Edmund’s Church, St Edmund’s Road, Temple Hill, Dartford DA1 5ND Lunch at 12:30pm (£5pp must be booked in advance). Raffles and bingo from 1pm, prizes galore.

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DARTFORD DISTRICT LIBRARIES ACTIVITIES AND EVENTS: For Adults: Knit & Natter: Enjoy knitting or crochet? Come along to our friendly group, meet new friends and enjoy a chat. Everyone is welcome from beginners to expert knitters and crocheters. Sessions are free but please provide your own materials.

Ashen Drive Library - Tuesdays 10.30 – 12.45 Dartford Library - Wednesdays 1.30 – 3.30 Fleetdown Library – Friday 10.00 – 12.00 Longfield Library - Every other Thursday 11.15 – 12.30 Summerhouse Drive Library - 3rd Tuesday of the month 2.30 – 3.30 Talk Time: Come along to our free friendly group, meet new friends and enjoy a cuppa and a chat.

Everyone is welcome.

Fleetdown Library – Friday 11.30 – 1.00 Longfield Library - Every other Thursday 11.15 – 12.30 Summerhouse Drive Library – 2nd and 4th Friday of the month 2.30 – 3.30 Reading Groups: Share your love of books in a group, have exciting debates and consider books you would never have imagined reading.

Fleetdown Library – 1st Thursday of the month 2.00 – 3.30 Fleetdown Library – 2nd Saturday of the month 10.00 – 12.00 Longfield Library – 2nd Tuesday of the month 2.30 – 3.30 Longfield Library – 1st Wednesday of the month 10.30 – 11.30 Summerhouse Drive Library - Last Thursday of the month 10.00 – 11.00 Summerhouse Drive Library – 2nd Friday of the month 10.30 – 11.30 Other Services: IT Buddies: Book a session with one of our volunteer IT buddies for help with basic computer queries. These sessions are not classes and our IT buddies cannot help with filling out forms due to Data Protection Regulations. Contact your local library for availability.

Touch a New World: Touch a New World is a free service available to Kent Library customers who are not able to get to their local library. We can loan you an

iPad for up to 8 weeks and offer one-to-one training in your own home from a volunteer, so you can learn how to use the technology.

Contact your local library for availability.

Home Library Service: We can deliver library items to you if you cannot visit a library due to illness, disability or your caring responsibilities. After visiting you to discuss your tastes and needs, staff will select suitable material for you. A volunteer will deliver your books, DVDs or other items and collect ones you are finished with. Contact your local library for availability.

External Organisations & Partners: We also host other organisations that provide useful information and services in our libraries, these include: Hi Kent Hearing Aid Clinic: Call in to have your hearing aid cleaned and re-tubed and collect new batteries.

Find out how to make the best of your hearing aid.

Ashen Drive Library – 3rd Thursday of the month 2.30 – 3.30 Fleetdown Library - 2nd Thursday of the month 2.00 – 3.30 Sutton-at-Hone Library – 2nd Friday of the month 11.00 – 12.00 Kent Pathways Service Help Desk: The Kent Pathways Service provide support for people with disabilities become more independent and develop life skills to improve quality of life. You can get help with: - Filling in forms - Claiming benefits - Letters and bills - Making phone calls - Housing - Finding activities - Keeping healthy and safe - Voluntary work, college and training Dartford Library – Every other Tuesday 10.00 – 12.00 To find out more about The Kent Pathways Service please visit: https://www.kent.gov.uk/social-care-andhealth/adult-social-care/care-and-support/ disability/learning-disability/kent-pathway-service

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ADVERTISERS INDEX

DIRECTORY OF LOCAL BUSINESSES ADVERTISING IN DARTFORD LIVING ACCOUNTS, BUSINESS, FINANCE AND LEGAL RESTAURANTS, CAFES, FOOD OUTLETS 4 Efes K & A Chartered Surveyors 9 Summit Wealth 59 EDUCATION Downton and Ali Associates 13 My Bluewater Tutor Boat & Co Little Learners HOME IMPROVEMENTS Baby/Toddler Sense 4 The Double Glazing Repair Man 49 CHARITABLE ORGANISATIONS GWS Plumbing 34 Dartford Foodbank Steve Cook New Life Christian Community Foodbank RELIGIOUS SERVICES We Are Beams 43 Crossways Community Church 54 LEISURE/ENTERTAINMENT St Albans & St Edmunds Church Groups Dartford Beer Festival COUNCIL SERVICES Orchard Theatre 30/31 Dartford Social Club Dartford Borough Council DBC Walk and Talk MEMBERS OF PARLIAMENT Bexley Park Sports & Social Club 29 YDMA Karate Gareth Johnson ESTATE/LETTING AGENTS Fox Estates

TRAVEL 15 Harden Holidays

FLORISTS Dartford Florist

RETAIL 16 Bradleys Jewellers Craft Frames Trimower 60 SPORT White Oak Triathlon 9 BOOKS The Colour of My Problems

GARAGES/VEHICLE SERVICES Orchard Garage CARE PROVIDERS Home Instead HEALTH AND WELLBEING Healthy Living Centre Dartford Road Dental Ruby Lox- Hairdressing

8 26 46

PRINTERS Darenth Print and Design

42

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5 41 46 49 16 29 27 21 1,2 42 59 38 29 22 43 46 28 25 49

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We offer amazing value advertising with adverts starting from just £37.50 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 2023

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 KEY NUMBERS Police 01622 690690 NON EMERGENCY ONLY Fire Safety Advice & FREE Home Fire Safety Check 0800 169 1125 Dartford Borough Council 01322 343434 Gas Leaks (24 hour) 0800 111 999 EDF Energy Networks Emergencies/ Powercuts Helpline 105 Flooding 03459881180 Highways Kent 03000 41 41 41 Social Services 03000 41 41 41 Water Burst 0800 820 999 (Southern) 0800 714614 (Thames) HEALTH Darent Valley Hospital 01322 428100 Dartford East Health Centre 01322 421480 Boots Chemist Bluewater 01322 624780 (Late Night) ASDA Greenhithe Chemist 01322 374100 (Late Night) The National Pandemic Flu Service 0800 1513 100 West Kent NHS helpline 0800 0 850850 TRAVEL Heathrow Airport Enquires 08700 000123 Gatwick Airport Enquires 08700 002468 National Rail Enquires 08456 484950 Highways England Info Line 0300 123 5000

Debt Councilling (CAP) 0800 328 0006 Information About Drugs - FRANK: 0800 776600 Kent Homophobic Incident Reporting Line: 0800 328 9162 Kent Racial Incident Reporting Line: 0800 138 1624 Local Breastfeeding Counsellors Judianne/Paula 01322 224072 National Domestic Violence Helpline (24 hour) 0808 2000 247 NSPCC Child Protection Helpline: 0808 800 5000 RSPCA Kent, North West Branch Helpline 01322 286720 Samaritans: 116 123

777250 Dartford Ju Jitsu Club Mondays, Dartford Girls Grammar School, Shepherds Lane. 6.30-8.00 Juniors, 8.00-10.00 Seniors www. dartfordjujitsu.co.uk

LOCAL MP Gareth Johnson 020 7219 7047

Dartford Valley RFC www.pitchero.com/clubs/ darenthvalleyrfc/

LOCAL SPORTS CLUBS Bexley Rugby Club 01322 550142 or www.pitchero.com/clubs/ bexleyrfc/ Dartford Ladies Hockey Club Dawn Hall (Secretary) 07793

HELPLINES 24 Hour Kent Dementia Helpline: 0800 500 3014 Alcoholics Anonymous: 08457 697 555 Citizens Advice Bureau: Website: citizensadvicenwk.org.uk FREE Adviceline Number: 0808 278 7810 (Mon - Fri, 9am - 5pm) For further information about our organisation, including office locations and times, please visit ‘Our Locations’ page on our website: https://citizensadvicenwk.org.uk/ about-us/our-locations/ 58

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

www.dartfordliving.com

Dartford Sharks Basketball Club Tim Dickson - 07855 692527.

Dartford Volleyball Club Graham - 01322 275290 or 07984 106134.

Stone Lodge Indoor Bowling Club 01322 274111.

VCD Table Tennis Club Eric Jenkins - 0208 3038312.

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

USEFUL FACEBOOK GROUPS Dartford Living Dartford Together Dartford Living Community Group

Dartford Borough Council Walk and Talk Groups Healthy Living Walk - Mondays 10.00am (Contact the One You Team) Dartford Heath Walk - Tuesdays 10.00am (Upper Heath Lane) Darenth Country Park - Tuesdays 10.30am (Darenth Valley Hospital) Swanscombe Castle Hill - Tuesdays 12.30pm Greenhithe - Wednesdays 10.30am (St Mary’s Church) Stone Pavilion Walk - Thursdays 9:30am

Central Park - Thursdays 11.30am (War Memorial) Swanscombe - Fridays 10.00am Swanscombe Castle Hill - Sundays 9.00am

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(Castle Hill Community Centre)

• Health walks are free and led by trained volunteer walk leaders • Short social walks that last around an hour • No need to book - just turn up • Any age and ability welcome For more details including starting points please contact the One You Kent team call 01322 343067 or email oneyou@dartford.gov.uk

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

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