Dartford Living October 2019

FREE October 2019 - Issue 160

By the community, for the community INSIDE THE MAGAZINE

HOUSES OF PARLIAMENT REFURBISHMENT - Page 6 DARTFORD BUSINESS AWARDS SPECIAL - Pages 8 to 11 DAODS - FOOTLOOSE- Page 20

www.dartfordliving.com

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

1

ired be inspwith Slimming World MONDAYS St Peter & St Pauls Church Swanscombe, Kent DA10 0JZ 7:30pm Heather 07957 083150

High Road Wilmington DA2 7DW 5.30pm Jayne 07557979435

Temple Hill Community Centre Temple Hill Square, Dartford, DA1 5HY 09:30am Jo 07800 797030

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

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

St Anselm’s Parish Centre 89 West Hill, Dartford, Kent, DA1 2HJ 5:00pm and 7:00pm Gillian 07957 135737

British Legion Hall Devon Road, South Darenth, DA4 9AA 9:30am, 5:30pm and 7:30pm Jayne 07557 979435

WEDNESDAYS VCD Sports Club, Old Road Crayford, DA1 4DN 9:30am, 5:30pm and 7:30pm Liz 07900 213548

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

2

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

Greenhithe & Swanscombe British Legion Club London Road, Greenhithe, DA9 9EJ 5:30pm and 7:30pm Paula 07891 424401 SATURDAYS Oakfield Primary Academy Oakfield Lane Dartford Kent DA1 SW 8am and 10am Sarah 07739 027161

Christchurch Centre Kingswood Avenue Swanley Temple Hill Community Centre BR8 8AN Temple Hill Square, Dartford, 8am and 10am DA1 5HY Jayne 07557 979435 3.30pm, 5:30pm, 7:30pm Jo 07800 797030 THURSDAYS The Howard Venue (formerly South East Dance Studios) 39 Egerton Avenue, Hextable, BR8 7LG 9:30am Caroline 07776 181413

slimmingworld.co.uk 0344 897 8000 Please mention Dartford Living when contacting our advertisers | Interested in advertising? Tel: 01322 507817

WELCOME TO THE LATEST ISSUE OF

DARTFORD LIVING

BY THE COMMUNITY, FOR THE COMMUNITY Dear Readers,

Welcome to the October magazine. As usual it’s jam packed with lots of local information and local businesses.

Please support as many as you can - use them or lose them!

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

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

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

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

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

CONTENTS 6 8-11 14 20 24 25 26 28 32 33 34 40 42 43 43 44 45 48-55 56-57 58

House of Parliament refurbishment Dartford Business Awards special Gardening with the World Garden DAODS Footloose Life Under the Stairs Recipe Travel Spotlight Bluewater relaunches the Nature Trail Dartford Then and Now Do oyu need a lasting power of attorney?

If you go down to the plot today.....

Sports News Fitness Rescue is best Dartford Painted Rocks Theatre Review Car News Where to Go Locally Advertisers Index Useful Numbers

6 8 - 11

14 34 Check out our website for even more local news and articles

www.dartfordliving.com

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

3

HALLOWEEN FUN!

Come along and select the pumpkin of your choice from our Pumpkin Patch or Farm Shop 85p per kilo

Monday-Saturday: 9:00am-5:00pm Sundays & Bank Holidays: 10:00am-3:30pm

Available * from mid Octob er.

Please ch eck our website for furthe r details

www.stanhillfarm.co.uk

Stanhill Farm Birchwood Road, Wilmington, Dartford, Kent DA2 7HD Tel: 01322 669711 *While stocks last

The Double Glazing Repair Man Specialist In Double Glazing Repairs

Get Up to

20% OFF Quote ‘The Net’

4

• Misted/Broken Glass • Handles & Locks • Broken Hinges • Adjustments • Draughts • Patio Door Handles/Rollers All Work Guaranteed

Special Discounts For Senior Citizens

CALL FOR A FREE QUOTATION TEL - 07508 620 503 • OFFICE - 020 8309 0750 www.thedoubleglazingrepairman.co.uk

Please mention Dartford Living when contacting our advertisers | Interested in advertising? Tel: 01322 507817

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

5

HOUSES OF PARLIAMENT REFURBISHMENT

BY GARETH JOHNSON, MP FOR DARTFORD

beautiful buildings.

At the moment Big Ben is encased in scaffolding and cannot be seen. However, one of the clock’s faces will always be on show for the duration of the four-year program. This £61m project includes work on the tower and work to prevent the clock mechanism failing. There will also be a lift installed. Although the famous bongs of Big Ben stopped in August 2017 for the work to start, they are still heard on specific occasions including Remembrance Sunday and New Year’s Eve.

When people visit London, the iconic Houses of Parliament and Big Ben are two of the capital’s main attractions.

The Parliamentary Estate, which has 1,100 rooms, is made up of old and new buildings with some dating as far back as 11th century.

Most of the Houses of Parliament were designed by Sir Charles Barry and building work began in 1840 and took decades to complete.

Unfortunately, many of the buildings now need urgent repairs carried out on them and for a number of years part of the estate, including the Elizabeth Tower which is home to Big Ben, have been hidden under scaffolding due to essential work.

In the heart of the estate lies Westminster Hall which is both the oldest and most historic part of the estate.

This building has hosted many major events including famous trials, royal banquets and speeches by overseas statesmen and is currently undergoing work inside and out. This includes conservation work to preserve the roof lantern and cleaning and repairs to the internal roof timbers. Westminster Hall was built by William the Conqueror’s son and survived a fire that raged through the Parliamentary Estate in 1834 and a direct hit from a German bomb in the second world war. It hosted the trials of Guy Fawkes, William Wallace and Charles I. It was already an old building when Henry VIII used it to play tennis in when the hall formed part of his royal residence.

In all areas of the Palace, including Central Lobby and St Stephen’s Hall, there has been a seven-year program to conserve the encaustic floor tiles.

It is an honour and privilege to work in such an iconic place with a long and important history and it is only right that we preserve these buildings. Whilst much of the estate looks like it is still under construction, some areas are now finished. It is fantastic to see these results, which will mean the buildings will retain their majestic glory for For as long as I have been an MP work has been ongoing many more years to come. to renew the buildings in order to preserve them for the future.

The ongoing projects include restoring windows, repairing and restoring roofs, replacing tiles and work on the crumbling stone. In addition, a lot of work has been carried out to improve health and safety standards.

All of this is aimed at securing the future of the Houses of Parliament, which is part of a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is incumbent on us to look after it and we would be failing future generations if we didn’t protect such 6

Please mention Dartford Living when contacting our advertisers | Interested in advertising? Tel: 01322 507817

A HIGHLY SUCCESSFUL GIRLS SCHOOL

OPEN EVENINGS • 3rd October 2019 - 6pm to 8pm • 15th October 2019 - 6pm to 8pm

OPEN MORNINGS • 8th October, 16th October, 18th October Tours at: 8:45am, 9:00am, 9:15am, 9:30am, 9:45am, 10:00am To book a tour please visit our website: www.dstc.kent.sch.uk

Heath Lane Dartford, DA1 2LY | 01322 224309

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

7

DARTFORD BUSINESS AWARDS - DARTFORD LIVING CUSTOMER CHOICE AWARD

WINNER - ON POINTE PILATES, FRANCES WARE

Firstly, I would like to say a huge thank you to all of my clients who voted for OnPointe Pilates, it really does mean everything to me and my team. I am so grateful to everyone who voted for us - I absolutely love what I do. It’s a pleasure spreading the love of all things Pilates every day and helping people reach their goals – which could be getting out of pain, rehabilitating an injury or helping someone perform better at their chosen sport,

anxiety and much more: plus we have a lot of fun along the way! We believe sessions should be fun and engaging – we work hard but have a lot of laughs too! And our client’s often tell us our classes make an important positive difference to their week – which we are so pleased to hear.

We offer lots of Pilates classes, group mat work and equipment sessions each week plus lots more including weekly dance fitness sessions, high intensity interval training, specialist I would also like to take this opportunity to congratulate rehabilitation monthly Pilates sessions and Pilates on the all the other businesses who were nominated and short paddle boards sessions on the lake. listed for this award. All are incredibly worthy finalists and I am humbled to be amongst them and thrilled to work in a Please feel free to follow us on Facebook where you can see borough of such talented business owners and entrepreneurs. our latest events, classes and workshops: https://www. facebook.com/OnPointePilateswithfrances/ At OnPointe Pilates our clients are everything to us, and it’s part of our core values within our business to work incredibly I would like to conclude by thanking all my clients once again hard to provide award winning Pilates classes and a positive for voting for OnPointe Pilates and the judging panel at the customer experience to each and every client we deal with. Dartford Business Awards for choosing us as your winner.

I feel truly honoured to have won this award and thrilled that I would also like to extend a thank you to all of our team at our clients see the value in the service we offer them, as OnPointe Pilates for their dedication and hard work. after all our clients are the heart and soul of our business and we’ll continue to work to service them better and provide an Finally I would like to invite anyone reading this to consider outstanding service to all our customers – current and new. joining us for a free taster session to see how Pilates can positively change your life.

At OnPointe Pilates we feel passionately that everybody who comes into contact with my business should feel personally valued and a somebody, we actively encourage all our clients to work towards becoming the best version of themselves – irrespective of how long that takes.

I discovered Pilates myself over 8 years ago when recovering from an injury from professional dancing, it really helped me move more freely, get out of pain and continue to do the things I love! I’m now so very passionate about sharing the benefits of Pilates with the community and showing people how it can help them.

Our clients tell us time and time again, that they first come along to a session with a stiff back and then after a few sessions of Pilates, they feel younger, fitter and their minds feel clear and they have discovered tools to help with stress, 8

Please mention Dartford Living when contacting our advertisers | Interested in advertising? Tel: 01322 507817

DARTFORD BUSINESS AWARDS - DARTFORD LIVING CUSTOMER CHOICE AWARD

COMMENDED - EFES RESTURANT, JEMAL AKKUS My Father (Kazim) started Efes in 1974 in the West End and has grown from strength to strength over the years.

The Dartford Branch of Efes started out as an accident. I used to be a teacher and resigned from my post and went into the property business with my father. I was looking at properties in and around Dartford and noticed that the Paper Moon was up for sale. Automatically our ideas for property were put on hold. With this amazing building and the future regeneration of Dartford we decided to branch out into Kent with a restaurant.

Efes has won numerous awards in the past but to be commended in Dartford means a lot to me because I designed the restaurant to be inviting and not to be overpowering for the local population.

I feel that Dartford needed a business such as ours to add a touch of what Dartford could be, permanently, not temporarily.

DARTFORD BUSINESS AWARDS - DARTFORD LIVING CUSTOMER CHOICE AWARD

COMMENDED - FLEETDOWN OPEN HOUSE groups in Dartford but without letting quality slip. By having enough people attend each week means we can afford to put on some big over the top weeks including a construction week complete with a wrecking ball, a royal wedding that came with cream tea for all and a monthly Baby Rave.

Fleetdown Open House was created almost three years ago, by three mums hoping to escape the darkness of Post Natal Depression. Since then we have gone from strength to strength, with the voluntary team growing, enabling our sessions to get better and better.

To be commended and be recognised for all of the hours of effort that goes into every session is amazing. Our sessions are a labour of love and seeing the smiles and hearing the comments from everybody is all the payment we need. To even be nominated for the Customer Choice Award means that we are doing something right and we have at least changed somebody’s day for the better.

We explore a different theme each week with a messy play, painting activity, craft and Play-dough to suit. We also set up role play areas where possible. Our sensory zone/baby area is ever changing, ensuring that our “teenie-tinys” have plenty of lights, sounds, textures and smells to stimulate them whilst enjoying quality time with their parents/carers.

We only charge £2.50 making us one of the cheapest www.dartfordlivinglive.co.uk - www.dartfordliving.com - www.dartfordbusinessdirectory.co.uk

9

DARTFORD BUSINESS AWARDS - DARTFORD LIVING CUSTOMER CHOICE AWARD

SHORTLISTED BUSINESSES - IN THEIR OWN WORDSTWO TWO TREES TEA ROOM

Crossways Community Church in Stone set out to get to know the community by providing a Tea Room on the recreation ground to attract people to the grounds and bring the community together.

credit to the business and always give 100%. We would like to take this opportunity to thank them for their individual efforts.

Our business has grown by repeat customers and referrals.

This has helped us develop over the past 20 years providing customer satisfaction at all times. We always strive to deliver the best customer service and end results when carrying out our work.

We pride ourselves on being a reliable friendly company.

In September 2017 planning was given to erect a Tea Room, Helping you in an emergency situation whenever, wherever. funded by the Church and in partnership with Stone Parish Council and hence Two Tress Tea Room was born, opening its doors fully in February 2018.

WISDOM ESTATES Wisdom Estates continued Two Trees was designed to be a relaxing environment for success comes from people to come to, make friends and enjoy homemade blending the latest property treats with a little bit of style, keeping costs down and food marketing techniques with standards high. an exceptional and personal customer service that Two Trees has been a success ever since opening, with to date has earned us a the local community rating it with 5* reviews and many multitude of 5* reviews. customers returning again and again. The Tea Room would not be what it is today if it wasn’t for our great volunteer staff.

Rober t Wisdom f irst No-one is paid at the tearoom and any profits made are sown opened the doors of back into local community projects. We are proud to have Wisdom Estates in 2013, with the vision of fundamentally supported local charities such as Dartford foodbank and UK changing the perception of Estate Agents. After working for based charities such as Cancer UK. Our volunteers include both an independent and a corporate estate agent he felt members of the church and also local community residents. disillusioned with what the industry had to offer. With his We have a great team that work really hard at providing a drive, ambition and a real passion for selling homes, Wisdom great customer experience. As well as the catering, we enjoy Estates came to life, ruffling the feathers of our competitors building relationships with the people and it’s so great to by being the first to put our customers before our targets, hear people’s stories and the history and memories they and becoming the most innovative, independently-run have of the local area. estate agency in Dartford.

We are proud to support a handful of local business too, as we buy as much of our produce as local as possible and the food that we serve is fresh each day, which includes our very popular homemade cakes by our baking team.

Over the years we have successfully sold properties of all shapes and sizes and we’ve learnt several valuable lessons along the way, but our vision, and the values we apply have always remained the same. We understand that, for our exceptional service to be consistently recognised, our team Without the Volunteers, Crossways Community Church must all share the same passion and commitment to both and the Parish Council, Two Trees would not exist for the our vendors and buyers. community today.

Our team pride ourselves on being a professional, friendly HARDY DRAINAGE LTD and innovative team who are committed to redefining Estate Hardy Drainage Ltd is a Agency in Dartford and surrounding areas. family business based in Dartford. We are delighted Our plans for the future include opening our new branch in to be shortlisted for the Sidcup, where we will continue with the same determination Dartford Living Community and passion to become a well-respected and established Award. We would like to part of the community, and to continue the success we thank everyone for all the have achieved in Dartford. votes we have received.

KUT HUT HAIRDRESSER’S The engineers out on the We at the Kut Hut Hairdresser’s are honoured even to be road and in office staff are a nominated in the first place 10

Please mention Dartford Living when contacting our advertisers | Interested in advertising? Tel: 01322 507817

We feel that being such a new business, we aim to keep up the great reputation that we have achieved. we have a great team and awesome clientele who we always aim to go the extra mile to ensure we achieve our clients goals.

We work together with the Good Salon Guide which we are the only 5 star salon in Dartford. Also we support The Little Princesses Trust which we value very much. we also work together with blue card and staff discount UK. We would like to Thank all our Clients and people that nominated us.

HOLLYWOOD PA

Hollywood PA offers the chance for your child to pursue a career in the performing arts or simply to start a great loved hobby.

With our friendly, talented and carefully chosen staff, your children are bound to be inspired. We provide a valuable service; one that is professional, one that teaches your child a high quality foundation in dance, drama and singing, one that encourages self-esteem, and one that develops a love of and appreciation for the art of performing.

Not forgetting they will also make memories and friends for life! All our classes are low-cost and designed to be accessible for everyone, we accept children aged 3-18 years.

Our History In 2011 Hollywood Performing Arts was founded by Principle Holly Penny. The School opened in Swanley with only 35 students, but word spread quickly of the fantastic work Hollywood Performing Arts were displaying and so the School expanded to three new locations; Dartford, Crayford and Gravesend. All four Schools are now thriving with exceptional talent; this has enabled Hollywood PA to create our very own free Children’s Talent Agency “Hollywood PA Agency” in 2018, directed by Debi Li Smart. The School continues to grow from strength to strength and in 2016 we introduced our Academy. This allows students to focus their training on individual aspects of dance with our highly talented and specialised teachers DOWNTON AND ALI ASSOCIATES It means a great deal to us at Downton and Ali Associates to have been shortlisted for the Customers’ Choice award 2019, because the nominations come from our customers.

Our company ethos is to give an exceptional client experience and our customers are at the heart of everything we do.

Being nominated means we are achieving our goals and it encourages the team to continue striving towards excellence when dealing with our customers. We always aim to be

personal and thoughtful in all our interactions and we are extremely proud to be a Dartford business.

We are committed to giving personal, face-to-face, free no obligation financial advice. It is our aim to achieve the financial goals of private and corporate clients, regardless of individual lifestyles or monetary status. Clients trust us to help them create the financial future they’ve always wanted.

As a company, we also know the importance of our corporate, social responsibility. Brian Downton, who owns the company, spends a great deal of his personal time fundraising for the Openwork Foundation cares4kids, along with other local children’s charities on an annual basis. These have included Beams, Demelza Hospice Care for Children, Stacey’s Smiles and Holding on Letting Go. CENTRAL PARK ATHLETICS

Central Park Athletics were established in 1997 as a facility management company, responsible for looking after and maintaining the newly built clubhouse and refurbished facility at Central Park Athletics Arena in Dartford.

Since those early days, we have grown quite considerably and can now offer the fantastic full IAAF arena you see today.

With around 750 members of all ages and Athletic abilities, we continue to strive to be better and have always believed in delivering Athletics at a very low cost.

Whilst other similar facilities typically charge £300 per year membership, Central Park Athletics charge £52 ( one pound per week) We believe this encourages people to take part in sport, not put people off !

The weekly parkrun, which starts & finishes at the clubhouse, has also grown and we are proud to be able to offer our full support to the great initiative by giving our use of the car park, clubhouse & toilets free.

We strongly believe in good community spirit through low cost sport.

We hope to soon be able to improve the floodlighting st the arena to ensure we keep proving quality athletics throughout the whole year.

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

11

BEXLEY PARK SPORTS & SOCIAL

CLUB (Members, Members Guests Welcome)

Rugby

Football

Tennis

Squash

Karate

Comedy Club Ballroom Dancing

Floodlit Astroturf Country & Western Sky & BT Sports

Four Seasons Boot Camp

Wi-Fi

Table Te

nnis

Cricket Pool

Bowls

Catering In House or Own Hire Function Hall for Club Terrace Fully Licensed Bar Adult Lounge

A DA2 7G k .u rd, Kent Dartfo exleypark.co Drive, .b Calvert 7973 www 52 od Preschool 01322 Enchanted Wo edwoodpreschool.co.uk info@enchant 07809 555 155

For Hall bookings and General enquiries please contact 07950 634686 / 07940 395036 9.00am - 6.00pm or email info@bexleypark.co.uk

YOU’RE INVITED TO JOIN US THIS SUNDAY AT

CHURCH SUNDAY’S 10:30AM @ STONE PAVILION Hayes Road Stone Dartford DA99DS

COME AND HEAR THE MESSAGE OF JESUS AND TRANSFORM YOUR LIFE TODAY

www.crosswayscc.co.uk CROSSWAYS COMMUNITY CHURCH

12

Please mention Dartford Living when contacting our advertisers | Interested in advertising? Tel: 01322 507817

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

13

GARDENING WITH THE WORLD GARDEN

by Tom Hart Dyke, curator of The World Garden

heaters are all in working order, as it’s the perfect time to protect your tender plant beauties! Our next challenge is to cover over the whole of Mexico (our Mexican beds!) although in a walled garden we still need to cover with a special temporary 50ft polytunnel to keep everything dry. Also don’t forget to do one last seed harvest, ideally while you are cutting back and a good opportunity to split up herbaceous perennials whilst you are amongst the beds and re-plant in well prepared ground to encourage vigorous growth for the following year.

October marks the end of our 2019 season and the last event of the year, with our finale on Sunday 27th October for our Halloween Magic event! We hope you can join us for pumpkin carving, spooky house and garden tours, plus Halloween inspired light bites in our cafe marquee – perfect for all the family.

Tom will give entertaining garden tours at 1pm and a dusk tour at 5pm, a chance to learn about the origins of pumpkins, colours and varieties and children can spot the Halloween tricks in eerie torchlight! Our Spooky House tours at 2pm & 6pm are unmissable and include tales of our resident ghost! Fancy dress is welcome – celebrate the end of our season in style! £2 donation for October is a busy time in The World Garden and for all the pumpkin carving. gardeners as we start to prepare our favourite place for the colder months with an autumn tidy! Our focus is to www.lullingstoncecastle.co.uk prune the entire space, especially cutting back herbaceous perennials that have faded and ensuring we make the Halloween Magic – Sunday 27th October. 12 noon - 7pm - Adults £10, Children under 15 - FREE most of our remaining autumn colour for visitors!

This month is also about getting prepared for the winter, Images: Alan Graham at the beginning of October we check our greenhouse

14

Please mention Dartford Living when contacting our advertisers | Interested in advertising? Tel: 01322 507817

BOW ARROW GARDENING & LANDSCAPING. Gardening and Landscaping service in the Dartford, South East London, North Kent, Essex area.

- Garden Design.

- Garden Clearance.

- Garden maintenance :all aspects.

- Hedge/shrub pruning.

- Deweed paths and flower beds - Lawn Maintenance and cutting.

Free quotations Contact- Andy Davidson.

Mobile 07815 118887 Email – andy_davidson_1@ yahoo.co.uk A Friendly, reliable and quality service.

Bespoke quotations on request.

Hawley Garden Centre Hawley road Dartford Kent DA2 7RB Tel: 01322 723959 E-Mail: enquiries@hmqualityfoods.co.uk Web: www.hmqualityfoods.co.uk

Find us on Facebook—

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

15

a5 Flyer.pdf

1

22/08/2017

16:36

Click here to choose your image

H WO OLIDA RKS Y HO P

STAGECOACH DARTFORD BROADWAY TO THE WEST END Make friends and build confidence at our theatre workshops

Age: 4 - 18 year olds Time: Mon Mon -- Fri, Thurs, 10.00am - 4.00pm Performance: Friday 4.00pm 10:00am - 4.00pm Cost: £175 (£125 for siblings) Venue: Dartford Science & Technology Centre, Heath Lane, Dartford DA1 2LY

stagecoach.co.uk/dartford

01732 750783

16

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

Stagecoach is a registered trademark of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Ltd.

PUT ON A SHOW

July 29th - Aug 2nd

Please mention Dartford Living when contacting our advertisers | Interested in advertising? Tel: 01322 507817

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

17

18

Please mention Dartford Living when contacting our advertisers | Interested in advertising? Tel: 01322 507817

Looking to move and have a home to sell?

Redrow’s Help to Sell can get you moving Redrow will help you sell your existing home quickly and easily, Help to Sell is your ticket to your dream new home. We’ll take care of all the paperwork and even contribute to your estate agent fees, leaving you to enjoy a hassle-free move.

The service you’d expect from a name you can trust.

Find out more about our new Help to Sell service and book your appointment today.

3 & 4 bedroom homes from £384,995 Book your appointment today.

Regent Square Ebbsfleet DA10 0BE | Call: 01322 771559 redrow.co.uk www.dartfordlivinglive.co.uk - www.dartfordliving.com - www.dartfordbusinessdirectory.co.uk

Details correct at time of going to print. Image is indicative only.

19

DARTFORD LOCALS SET TO ‘TEAR UP THIS TOWN’ WITH UPCOMING SHOW

by Patrick Walsh Members of a local theatre group are dusting off their dancing shoes as they prepare for their next musical production.

Dartford Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society (DAODS) has been putting local performers through their paces as the group prepares to head to the Orchard Theatre in Dartford for its October production of Footloose.

members, made up of local residents living in and around Dartford, including many high-energy dance numbers which they have been working on since rehearsals started in April.

Anticipation for the show is high, as DAODS chairman, Paul Farlie, explained. “We have always tried to present a variety of different types of shows for our audience and this year has been no different. We performed a more traditional show in April with our production of Oliver! and Footloose gives us the chance to bring something a little more modern to the stage. That will continue once Footloose is over as we move straight into rehearsals for Shrek the musical which we will be staging in April 2020.”

Footloose is the story of Ren McCormack, a teenage boy from Chicago. He and his mother move to the small town of Bomont after his father abandons them. Ren finds himself at odds with most of the town, including the Reverend of Bomont. The Reverend has convinced the town to outlaw dancing, which Ren finds unbelievable. With the help of friends Ariel and Willard, Ren convinces the Reverend to let This show will be the sixth from the local group in the last 12 the teenagers dance, and in the process helps the town to months. The society is always looking for new talent, both heal from a tragedy that affected them all. on and off-stage, and anyone who is interested in getting involved should email daodscom@gmail.com.

The show is probably already familiar to audiences from · Footloose is being performed from 23rd – 26th October the 1984 Kevin Bacon film and offers a toe-tapping upbeat at the Orchard Theatre, Dartford. Tickets: 01322 220000 score featuring many hit songs including Let’s Hear It For or www.orchardtheatre.co.uk The Boy, Holding out for a Hero, Almost Paradise, Footloose and many more!

For more information on this release or DAODS, email patwalsh100@hotmail.co.uk or call 07984 863642.

Footloose offers many opportunities for the society’s

JOIN US!

Here at The Paul Page Golf Academy it is so important to us that you feel comfortable and welcome at our family-run club. With exclusive membership benefits and events for you to join in, you can really feel like you belong. We believe golfing need not be expensive. Become a member and choose to be part of a new sporting, social network, or take time for yourself in beautiful, quiet surroundings on your doorstep!

PRINCES PARK, GRASSBANKS, DARENTH RD, DARTFORD, DA1 1RT TEL: 07957197493 www.thepaulpagegolfacademy.co.uk 20

Adult

£300 per annum or £25 per month

Senior (65+)

£240 per annum or £20 per month

Junior + (12 - 18yrs) £96

per annum or £8 per month

Junior (12 yrs & under) £60

per annum or £5 per month

Corporate/Pod

£1080 per annum or £90 per month

(4 persons)

Please mention Dartford Living when contacting our advertisers | Interested in advertising? Tel: 01322 507817

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

21

22

Please mention Dartford Living when contacting our advertisers | Interested in advertising? Tel: 01322 507817

STEVE COOK DOUBLE GLAZING SERVICING, REPAIRS AND INSTALLATION

NO FEE! UT L-O !

CAL VAT NO

Mob: 07747 015223 Tel: 01322 412791 45 Knole Road, Dartford, Kent. DA1 3JN. E-mail: steve.cook3@ntlworld.com

OVER 30 YEARS’ EXPERIENCE Most common problems that arise with double glazing can be solved quickly and cost effectively:

• 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

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

23

LIFE UNDER THE STAIRS

by Local Resident, Jane Stevenson THE AGING FANGIRL

According to the Urban Dictionary, a fan girl is: 1. A fan of something (female) who is obsessed with the said subject to a certain degree (normally unhealthy).

2. A general term for a female fan of something.

3. Usually, members of this label are seen as 1) insane; 2) idiotic; or 3) scary.

They are scruffy but hip. Bad boys don’t want any trouble but it’s usually lurking nearby. There is a sense of the unpredictable about them. They are irresistible to us. They are heartbreakers with a five o’clock shadow.

There is some published academic research on the phenomenon of fangirls. I’ve read a few reports, and found the most relevant for me was written by two Canadian professors, one whose subject was psychology, while the other studied British Literature. They surmise that for women, being a fangirl offers an escapism when the needs of family, career and real-life demand so much from us. Such an explanation resonates with me and others I’ve spoken to.

I was accused of being such a person recently – apart from giving me the best laugh I’ve had in ages, it reminded me that I’m not alone in such an outlook. I know many other ladies of a certain age who also fall into the category, with our objects of affection ranging across the spectrum of TV, Personally, I admire someone who knows the deck plans Film, Music and Stage. of the USS Enterprise, or can explain the theory behind According to our family and loved ones, we shouldn’t be Quantum Leap. I’m in awe of people who know all the lyrics let out if said object of affection is within fifty miles of us. to every single Elvis song. Fangirls: we are a race apart and Thankfully such a rule is hard to enforce and we probably a family of many. would ignore it anyway.

Take care people Fangirl-ism seems to be generational. Nowadays, Aidan Turner, Cillian Murphy and Shawn Mendes, Adam Levine or Ed Sheeran are the men most like to turn a lady’s eye. Nothing wrong with any of the above stars, but personally, not my Now Aw choice. Mind you, most women would give house room to Winn ard ing! a Jonas or Hemsworth brother – and there’s three in each family to choose from.

It embraces all women and all circumstances. I have a friend who is happy and settled with her partner, but has a ‘rock husband’. Another follows David Essex with due diligence, while a third happily treks around the country whenever Brian Ferry make an appearance. None of their partners feels threatened or lessened. For other friends, a Benedict Cumberbatch or Tom Hardy calendar hangs in the kitchen, brightening up the day.

I consider myself very lucky. I was brought up when the Sunday afternoon western was a staple form of entertainment, so have always had a soft spot for Robert Mitchum and Richard Widmark. As I’ve grown older, Robert Plant and Ritchie Blackmore held my heart for a while. My crush for the last forty years (and still going strong) is known to many. Let’s just say I have always wanted to zoom off into the sunset with him, in a gold Ford Capri!

Fangirls like bad boys. They are independent and headstrong.

They don’t follow the norm.

24

Children's Gifts & Wooden Toys Check out the New Website!

BipBopShop.com Email charlotte@bipbopshop.com

Follow & Support a Mum's Start Up Business @BipBopMum

Please mention Dartford Living when contacting our advertisers | Interested in advertising? Tel: 01322 507817

RECIPE -

CHICKEN STOCK

by Debbie Dickinson

No baking this month, but instead I’m hoping to encourage some of you to give homemade chicken stock a go! So much nicer and healthier than the powdered cubes and, if you get into the habit of making it each time you have roast chicken, it’s a lot quicker and easier than you would imagine!

You will need: Roast chicken carcass 1 onion 1 carrot A few black peppercorns A few bay leaves Garlic, optional Herbs – dried or fresh – I use a section of thyme.

Rosemary, oregano.

What to do: After you’ve dished up your roast pop the chicken carcass straight in a large pot and cover with cold water.

Add an onion, cut into 8 and a carrot, cut into 4/5.

Throw in the peppercorns, bay leaves and your chosen herbs.

Bring to the boil, then cover and simmer for 40 minutes.

Once, 40 minutes is up, spoon off any frothy looking stuff that may be sitting on the surface of the stock?

Strain the liquid into a clean pan, and throw away the carcass and vegetables/herbs.

Now you just need to reduce the stock to intensify the flavour.

Boil, keeping an eye on the pan, until the stock has reduced by half or more.

Let the stock cool and then I freeze in an ice cube tray ready to use in future dishes.

Enjoy!

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

25

TRAVEL SPOTLIGHT

in association with

TOURING HOLIDAYS AND ADVENTURE TRAVEL

by Tim Harden

We strongly believe that there is a cruise out there for everyone. Whether you want to join an expedition ship sailing to the ends of the world, a cultural cruise to the Far East, a river cruise in Europe or one of the resortstyle mega—ships that are like floating cities, there is something for you.

can visit on one trip – while unpacking only once not to mention the fact that a cruise is still the best value holiday on the market.

This month’s travel spotlight will focus on MSc Cruises to bring you an insight on the current and future plans of the largest privately-owned cruise line in the world.

From customer experiences to the worlds most incredible destinations, sublime services and value for money is what the cruise industry does best. One of the greatest things about cruising is the number of destinations you

MSC Cruises is the world’s largest privately-owned cruise line and brand market leader in Europe, South America and southern Africa. Their ships sail year-round in the Mediterranean and the Caribbean, and their seasonal itineraries include Northern Europe, the Atlantic Ocean, South America, southern Africa, China, the Dubai, Abu Dhabi and India.

MSC Cruises’ 16 ships boast a host of cutting-edge innovations and the latest technologies, and its global fleet is one of the youngest at sea. The fleet was born of a €6bn investment programme launched in 2003 and after successful completion of the first investment phase, the Company launched a second phase investment worth €13.6bn that will see the fleet expand to 29 mega-cruise ships by 2027.

MSC Meraviglia (2017) and MSC Bellssima (2019) are the first two Meraviglia Class ships. With 171,598 GT, they are the biggest cruise ship ever built by a European ship owner.

MSC Grandiosa, the first of two Meraviglia-Plus ships will

26

Please mention Dartford Living when contacting our advertisers | Interested in advertising? Tel: 01322 507817

to be found at sea. Beautiful lighting, a giant screen and atmospheric design make the main pool area even more alluring after dark.

We were also very impressed by the Aurea Spa and Yacht Club. The MSC Aurea Spa on MSC Bellissima is a luxurious Balinese spa offering signature relaxation treatments to revitalise body and soul. Complete with a thermal area, beauty salon and nail boutique, the MSC Aurea Spa will leave you feeling pampered from head to toe. The MSC Yacht Club is an exclusive haven of refinement where you can discover a ship within a ship. It is a place where you can savour exclusivity and privacy in a world of choice, where you can indulge in the luxury of a private club while enjoying access to the myriad recreation and entertainment possibilities that the rest of the ship affords.

come into service in November 2019. MSC Virtuosa, will be completed in 2020. A fifth, LNG-powered Meraviglia Class vessel will be delivered in 2023.

In the Caribbean - Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve in Bahamas is very close to welcome its first guests. Ocean Cay is a previous industrial sand extraction site that has been restored to a pristine piece of land surrounded by a 64-square-mile marine reserve and four smaller cays.

First guests will step onto the island on November 9, 2019, the private island and marine reserve will immerse guests in the natural beauty of their surroundings with white sand beaches, beautiful blue water and lush Bahamian greenery. Guests can seamlessly pass directly between the ship and island throughout the day and evening to take advantage of all of the facilities available onboard and ashore.

We had the opportunity to explore MSC Bellissima at her launch in Southampton earlier this year and we were taken aback by her beauty, the innovative MSC for Me technology and the world class Cirque du Soleil shows.

Two of its best features for us were the Central Promenade and the Atmosphere pool. The 96 m central promenade is filled with boutiques, restaurants and tranquil spots for shopping, eating and relaxing... as well as socialising.

In the evening, it comes alive with music, parties and entertainment. The Atmosphere pool with around 10 square metres of public space per guest, poolside space on MSC Bellissima is some of the most plentiful

MSC Bellissima is currently in the Mediterranean where you can still join her for a short cruise for as little at £300 per person. In the next few months she will be moving to the Arabian Gulf and doing a couple of Grand Voyages taking you from the United Arab Emirate to Sri Lanka, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, China, Hong Kong, Taiwan and Japan. A grand voyage starts at £3,600 per person.

You can enjoy the heat this winter on shorter itineraries like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Bahrain, Doha and back to Dubai from £499 per person for 7 nights which you can combine with a few nights stay in Dubai that will make for a fantastic and good value holiday.

We are happy to provide you further information on any of the above and we have a full rack of cruise brochures you can pick up in our shop that you can browse at your leisure. Pop in, let’s have a cup of tea/coffee and let’s talk cruising.

Call - 0800 023 8974 E-mail - tim@hardenholidays.co.uk Website: www.hardenholidays.co.uk Visit us at: Unit 1B Henley House, Home Gardens, Dartford, DA1 1AS

(Opposite Prospect Place & Costa, next to Subway)

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

27

BLUEWATER RELAUNCHES NATURE TRAIL

Bluewater is delighted to announce the relaunch of their Nature Trail, now in partnership with the classic children’s book, The Very Hungry Caterpillar, celebrating 50 years since the book was first published.

Robert Goodman, Bluewater’s General Manager, said: “We’re delighted to celebrate this new chapter of our popular Nature Trail through a partnership with The Very Hungry Caterpillar, which has entertained children for the past 50 years. I am sure the new sculpture will quickly To enjoy the trail, little ones can pick up a free trail map become a favourite with kids and adults alike.” in mall and follow The Very Hungry Caterpillar-themed signs to explore the lakes, play areas, bug hotels, stepping Bluewater, Europe’s leading retail and leisure destination, logs and hopscotch! offers great shopping with free, extra wide parking and has over 300 stores and more than 60 places to eat and Amidst their adventures, children will also discover an drink. Plus, with a 17 screen Showcase Cinema de Lux incredible, giant wooden sculpture of The Very Hungry including IMAX, Gravity Trampoline Park and Dinotropolis Caterpillar crafted by local sculptor Steven Porchmouth. Adventure Park, there’s something for everyone. Find There’s also a new spider climbing frame in the heart of the out more at bluewater.co.uk Nature Trail, adding to the host of fun outdoor activities.

The announcement comes as Bluewater is named in the prestigious Green Flag awards for a fourth consecutive year, testament to the value of Bluewater’s own parkland.

The Green Flag awards identify and reward the UK’s leading parks and green spaces. They recognised the 50 acres of beautiful green space at Bluewater - the area is a hotspot for biodiversity and a beautiful and educational place for all the family.

28

Please mention Dartford Living when contacting our advertisers | Interested in advertising? Tel: 01322 507817

Whatever place you're into

“Play together, stay together.”

3 months Premium membership for only £90. Limited time only.

Speak to our team today to find out more

fairfield.placesleisure.org Visit website for full terms and conditions.

Managed by Places for People Leisure Ltd for Dartford Borough Council.

Fairfield Leisure 01322 421166

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

29

Dartford Resident? by your housing conditions?

Can’t leave hospital?

Struggling to stay at home?

Cold home?

Need adaptations?

Even if you are a homeowner, in work or have savings, HOUSING ISSUES:

Home in disrepair, de-cluttering, deep cleaning, moving furniture

ADAPTATIONS:

Stair lifts, level access shower, access ramps, large scale property adaptions

SAFETY:

Key safes, bannister and grab rails

ENERGY EFFICIENCY:

Cavity wall insulation, loft insulation, repairs or replacement boiler

Contact us even if you’re unsure or your need isn’t listed

01322 343152 housinggrants@dartford.gov.uk

30

Please mention Dartford Living when contacting our advertisers | Interested in advertising? Tel: 01322 507817 *Discretionary assistance is subject to budget availability and may be frozen by the Local Authority when necessary

!

E R O L A G S N I A G BAR

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

31

DARTFORD THEN AND NOW THE JOLLY MILLERS, SOUTH DARENTH

BY JAMES CARNEY - LOCAL RESIDENT

As an Architect I am interested in the local context of our towns, villages and cities and how these places have developed over time.

Having come across some wonderful old postcards and images of our local towns and parishes on a Facebook page I thought it would be really interesting to take a photograph from exactly the same viewpoint but from our current time in history in relation to the original images from around the early 1900s. The original postcards and images are courtesy of Brian Porter.

32

Please mention Dartford Living when contacting our advertisers | Interested in advertising? Tel: 01322 507817

DO YOU NEED A LASTING POWER OF ATTORNEY?

by Susan Norris

Have you reached that stage in life where you are getting your affairs in order?

Have you thought about having a Lasting Power for Property and Financial Affairs or one for Health and Welfare? These Lasting Powers of Attorney work together to protect a person if they are incapacitated (re the Property and Financial Affairs) or are not able to make decisions about your own affairs and have to rely on someone to make these for you (Health and Welfare) If you are incapacitated at any time i.e. problems with walking and are not able to get out because you are unable to a Lasting Power of Attorney for Property and Financial affairs will enable your attorney or attorneys to get money out of a bank or building society on your behalf and will be able to deal with any property problems on your behalf.

With regard to the Health and Welfare LPA, this does not come into force until a donor (the person who has made the LPA) has lost mental capacity and is unable to make decisions for themselves or does not understand the effect of them as defined by the Mental Capacity Act 2005.

An Attorney (the person who administers your affairs under the LPA) should not be bankrupt or subject to an IVA. They should work in the Donor’s best interests and help the Donor to make decisions for as long as possible.

The Attorney should also be the following: • Someone who you know is trustworthy

• Someone who has good money-management skills • Someone who is a good decision-maker • Someone who has the ability to oversee the duties carried out by the Attorney • Someone who can step in quickly if there is an issue or even a crisis Both types of Lasting Power of Attorney have to be registered to be effective. Once registered they are held in abeyance until they are needed.

The Office of the Public Guardian oversees the registration of LPAs. If you do not have an LPA and it becomes necessary for someone else to deal with your affairs a Deputy has to be appointed by the Court of Protection which can be a costly and protracted business. A Lasting Power of Attorney may seem to be an expensive investment at first but it can save money and a lot of heartache in the long run.

If you are thinking about having a Lasting Power of Attorney or are thinking of changing your Will, perhaps,

setting up a Trust or need advice about having any of these matters please contact SMN Willwriting Services who will deal with your matters in complete confidentiality and can come to your home to discuss your requirements.

SMN Willwriting Services | Telephone: 01322 291379 Email: info@smnwillwritingservices.com Website: www.smnwillwritingservices.com

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

33

IF YOU GO DOWN TO THE PLOT TODAY YOU’LL PROBABLY BE SURPRISED . ..

By Beccy, Kim and Barbara plotholders at DEAGA

probably joined DEAGA as beginners.

Why rent an allotment? The wellbeing and health benefits of gardening and being outdoors are widely known, including the satisfaction of nurturing new life. There are times when your back aches and your fingers are muddy but that’s soon forgotten when you see what’s growing.

Working physically helps to empty your mind and allows you to think more clearly or even just let your mind wander.

Families benefit from having an allotment; a child’s surprise at finding out where a potato comes from, what a “broad bean sleeping in a blankety bed” looks like and being able to pick and eat pesticide free crops. Seeds are cheap to buy in supermarkets or garden centres and some produce edible crops in just a few weeks. Children are always fascinated by worms, beetles and butterflies and learn to appreciate the need for all aspects of nature to work together. DEAGA encourages biodiversity using bird and bat boxes, ponds, insect ‘hotels’ and growing plants that “If you go down to the plot today you’ll probably be encourage bees for pollination. surprised . . .”

When is a good time to take on an allotment? NOW!!

That’s what members of Dartford East Allotment and Although most crops start their production in spring Gardens Association in Gore Road, Dartford often find! and early summer there is still time to plant late crops But what is DEAGA? A friendly group of people who (Japanese onions, garlic, broad beans, winter lettuces) enjoy being in the open air growing fruit, vegetables and autumn is the best time to dig over the ground ready and flowers. There are no rules other than enthusiasm, to plant when the weather warms up in 2020. energy and expectation!

If you want “to go down to the plot” please contact Clive No experience is necessary to join DEAGA. Most plot (07542 477322) for details or email dartfordeastallotments@ holders begin with little knowledge. Seed packets tell ymail.com . you when to plant, how deep to plant and how far apart.

The surprise comes when you see tiny seedlings. You can’t go wrong; if you plant seeds too deep they often still come up, if you plant them a bit too late they may still germinate (but beware a surprise frost if you plant them too early!), if you plant seeds upside down they turn themselves round in the soil. A crop of potatoes for just planting a seed potato is one of the best surprises!

DEAGA is for everyone who rents an allotment (sometimes with a small shed to store tools). You will have your own key to the main gate so you can garden at any time to suit your life style. Plots vary in size and a half plot is an ideal way to begin gardening, although full plots may be available. If you feel overwhelmed at the thought of taking on an allotment there are many experienced gardeners willing to help if you ask their advice; don’t forget they 34

Please mention Dartford Living when contacting our advertisers | Interested in advertising? Tel: 01322 507817

Wills LPAs Probate Trusts Home visits available for Will Instructions Fully insured - 2 million pounds PI Insurance Reasonable fees Member of IPW and regulated by Trading Standards Institute Website: www.smnwillwriting services.com Email: susan.norris@ smnwillwritingservices.com Tel: 01322 291379

Excel Security Systems your local security systems installation specialists.

We can provide you with tailor made security systems for your home or business requirements..

SSAIB-certificated (Insurance Approved) Intruder Alarms CCTV Door Entry Access Control Service and Repairs Takeovers and Upgrades All our systems are designed to suit your needs and your budget. www.excelsecurity.london Email: enquiries@excelsecurity.london Or call 01322 589 534 For a free no obligation quotation...

Find us on Facebook

Are you fed up with constant aches and pains in your body? Do you want to move more freely ? Improve posture and feel more confident ?

Do you need help recovering from an injury? Or would you like to improve your sports performance ? OnPointe Pilates is the solutions, contact us today to book your FREE taster session!

Weekly group sessions on weekday mornings, evenings and weekends. Private 1:1 and 2:1 session with Pilates equipment.

We offer 5- week Pilates beginners course - these are the perfect introduction to Pilates and we currently have them on special offer 5 weeks for the price of only 4!

Limited spaces available – contact us to book your space!

Frances Ware 07921 863 806 frances@onpointepilates.co.uk

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

35

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

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

36

Please mention Dartford Living when contacting our advertisers | Interested in advertising? Tel: 01322 507817

FROM

DOUBLE

£349

MAHON * PELISIMA RANGE Chair £349 2 Seat Recliner Sofa £499 3 Seat Recliner Sofa £599

Choice of four colours Immediate Free Delivery

CALL 01322 837240 or VISIT IN STORE MONDAY to SATURDAY 9-5:30 |sunday 10 -4

£499

OTTOMAN BASE & LUXURY POCKET SPRUNG MATTRESS LARGE CHOICE OF COLOURS AVAILABLE

Furniture World Orchards Shopping Centre Dartford, DA1 1DN

ARE YOU THINKING OF SELLING? Instantly find out how much your home is worth!

Get your FREE instant online valuation now!

Wisdom-Estates.co.uk www.dartfordlivinglive.co.uk - www.dartfordliving.com - www.dartfordbusinessdirectory.co.uk

37

F.D. TRANSPORT “FULWICH VILLA” 100 FULWICH ROAD, DARTFORD KENT TEL: 01322 292323 MOBILE: 07831 448552

•FREE ESTIMATES • ALL REMOVALS UNDERTAKEN • ALL GOODS FULLY INSURED

F.D. TRANSPORT

• HAULAGE, PARCEL SERVICE, SINGLE ITEMS

Competitive Rates!

A BAINES & SON ROOFING • New Roofs • Repairs • Tiles • Slates • Flat Roofs • All Lead Work • UPVC Fascias & Soffits • All Guttering • All Work Guaranteed • Insurance Work Undertaken

TEL: 01322 271693 MOBILE: 07971 792463 38

Please mention Dartford Living when contacting our advertisers | Interested in advertising? Tel: 01322 507817

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

39

BAV’S SPORTING COMMENT Workers in Qatar continue to be mistreated despite promises to improve rights ahead of the 2022 World Cup. A new report from Amnesty International, the human rights group states thousands of workers are going unpaid, adding a new commission set up to help improve Upcoming events in October include: workers’ rights is failing to protect them.

3-6: Motorsport - Rally GB

Amnesty has urged Qatari authorities to “end the shameful 5: Rugby union - World Cup, England v Argentina, reality of labour exploitation”.

6: Horse racing - Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, Longchamp, Paris The report, All work, no pay: The struggle of Qatar’s migrant workers for justice, cites the example of “several hundred” contractors who were forced to “return home penniless” after the companies employing them first stopped paying them then ceased to operate. Qatari authorities passed new laws to improve workers’ rights after signing an agreement with the United Nations’ International Labour Organisation in November 2017.

Responding to Amnesty’s report, world football’s governing body Fifa say they take “World Cup workers’ rights very seriously” and in line with its human rights policy. It is worth noting that Amnesty’s research focused on firms not directly related to the World Cup.

11: Football - Euro 2020 qualifying, Czech Republic v England 12: Rugby union - World Cup, England v France, Yokohama; 13: Formula 1 - Japanese Grand Prix, Suzuka

14: Football - Euro 2020 qualifying, Bulgaria v England 19-20: Rugby union - World Cup quarter-finals, Japan

26-27: Rugby union - World Cup semi-finals, Yokohama 27: Formula 1 - Mexican Grand Prix, Mexico City 27 Oct-3 Nov: Tennis - WTA Finals, Shenzhen

Is this ok? Is the world turning a blind eye?

40

Please mention Dartford Living when contacting our advertisers | Interested in advertising? Tel: 01322 507817

DARTFORD V CHIPPENHAM TOWN Saturday, 28th October KO 3pm

CHIROPODIST Shelley Lane

MSSCh MBChA

HCPC Registered Home Visits 01474 745898 www.dartfordlivinglive.co.uk - www.dartfordliving.com - www.dartfordbusinessdirectory.co.uk

41

FITNESS

WHAT IS FUNCTIONAL TRAINING?

By Mark Broadbent

The word “functional” has been over-used for years within today, our bodies are still designed the fitness industry, and is largely mis-understood. to move in those ways.

Many people think that functional training is synonymous with unstable surfaces or ‘making something wobbly’ – stand on something unstable and squat and it’s “functional”; do your chest presses on a swiss ball, balance on a bosu, do your planks or push-ups on upturned kettlebells…

Add in some different crawling techniques, get strong hanging and swinging (monkey bars) and climbing. This combined with strength work will ensure you are moving your body in many different ways, and in ways that it has evolved to move. Rarely would a caveman have knocked out a dozen reps of squats with an antelope on his shoulders! He’d have This is NOT functional training. In some cases, this is nothing chased it, thrown rocks/spears at it, dragged it, lifted it (quite more than “dangerous” training! awkwardly I expect) and carried it from one place to another.

For an exercise to be labelled as being functional, it has to relate to a movement that you’re likely to use in every day life. Rarely do we find ourselves standing on an exercise ball needing to squat!

You don’t have to go out and hunt for antelope to train like this. Using free-weights and bodyweight is a great start, plus many gyms now have sandbags, heavy medicine balls, tyres, sleds and more so you can lift, carry, push, pull (drag) and just generally move heavy stuff from point A to point B. For starters, we tend to stand on the floor – a solid surface. Train like this for a while and you’ll feel the difference. You’ll So a truly functional exercise would have us stood with our move better, feel stronger in general (rather than just in a feet firmly on the floor (with the exception of climbing type specific lift), and your body will be working effectively as a exercises). whole rather than looking all out of proportion like many gym-goers tend to steer towards.

We also rarely work purely in the sagittal plane (backwards and forwards), but nearly always use an element of rotation and Don’t be fooled by the wobbly, unstable exercises (even if lateral movement too. So many of the machines we use in the you see a trainer using/prescribing them). Stick to basics. gym could be classed as “not functional” because they rarely Move stuff. Move your body. It feels great to MOVE! work in more than one plane of movement. Not that there’s no place for them, but if you want your training to equate to If you need help with your training and/or nutrition, visit www. better movement, better sports performance, or be called DartfordBootcamps.com for more information. “functional”, you’ll need to take much of your training away from the machines, and start using free-weights.

Cable machines can be very useful if used properly and offer some freedom of movement, but still often limit your movement to one or two planes when typically used in gyms.

The most real-to-life exercises are the ones that mimic what humans have evolved to do. Lifting and carrying odd shaped and awkward objects, walking and running (note this is different to “jogging”), throwing, climbing, crawling, pushing and dragging.

Strongman/woman training is actually a very good example of functional training, just taken to the extreme with the loads used. Incorporating movements like these into your routines but with more moderate loads would prove very beneficial to your everyday life and sporting performance.

The same can’t generally be said for machine-based training where, although you can make good strength gains and change your physique, people often start to get stiff and their movements restricted, and often get injured because of this.

Bodyweight training is also a very functional way to train, since we’ve always had to move our bodies. Climbing, crawling and other ground-based movements would be very applicable to our ancestors’ lives, even if they’re not things we do much 42

Please mention Dartford Living when contacting our advertisers | Interested in advertising? Tel: 01322 507817

RESCUE IS BEST

by Battersea Dog and Cats Home - Brands Hatch

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

Name: Possum; Breed: Mongrel; Sex: Male; Age: 5 months; Centre: Brands Hatch; Reference: 375550

Name: Majik; Breed: Domestic Short-Hair; Sex: Male; Age: 1 year 9 months; Centre: Brands Hatch; Reference: 374983 Majik has stolen everybody’s hearts at Battersea Brands Hatch, but is still on the lookout for a home of his very own. He has a heart of gold and loves curling up on a warm lap for a cuddle and a snooze. He’s hoping he will find a new family who are happy to give him all the cuddles he wants.

Battersea screens all cats for Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) and Majik has tested positive. FIV is a slowacting virus and most cats live long, happy and healthy lives. However, in order to protect other cats and preserve the health of the carrier, Battersea rehomed FIV+ cats to homes with cat-proof gardens. Don’t worry if your garden isn’t currently cat-proofed, we can offer plenty of advice.

We’ll also arrange for you to speak to a Battersea vet prior to rehoming. You can find out more on the ‘Your FIV+ Cat’ information page on the Battersea website.

Possum has not had the greatest start in life – he came in as a stray and due to a severe case of mange he has missed out on some of the fun that he should be having at such a young age. However he has blossomed in his foster home, showing just how resilient and forgiving dogs can be. When out and about he enjoys exploring and having a run around with his doggy friends. At home, he prefers his own company and will take himself to his favourite spot for a nap.

Possum is a clever boy who has already learnt all his basic training. He would thrive with new owners who are keen to continue training him. If you have calm, settled home Rocka Painting in Dartford. and would like a dog to take on adventures, please get in Please visit battersea.org.uk to find out more. touch with Battersea Brands Hatch.

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

DARTFORD PAINTED ROCKS

By Maria Kingsford

Here are some great photos of their painted rocks.

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

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

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

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

43

THEATRE REVIEW

BY LIZ DYER

Well I think it’s fair to say the Orchard’s new season started with a bang in September. If Priscilla Queen of the Desert and Rip it Up the 70s didn’t get you up and dancing, then Rocky Horror should definitely have done it... And on top of all that, we had murder too in The Mousetrap - but did you guess whodunnit?

26th). Based on the 1984 movie starring Kevin Bacon, the show celebrates music and dance with a playlist of 80s hits including Holding Out For a Hero, Let’s Hear It For The Boy and of course Footloose - and with the excellent DAODS at the helm, it’s guaranteed to get you up and dancing.

Looking ahead to this month, the Orchard has a really varied programme on offer, with something to suit all tastes: kids, music lovers, comedy fans and people who enjoy being scared out of their minds (or as I call them, crazy people). Oh, and this is your monthly reminder to book your panto tickets - it’ll be Christmas before we know it.

For those on the look out for a Halloween scare or two, Dartford will be home at the end of this month to The Woman in Black (28th October-2nd November). The legendary play is based on Susan Hill’s novel - I saw it as a teenager and it terrified me so much I’ve never been back.

You should definitely go and see it though - if you dare...

First up in October is the return of the brilliant ZooNation with their Olivier Award nominated show, Some Like It Hip Hop (4th-5th), a story of love, mistaken identity, gender stereotypes and revolution told through Hip Hop, comedy and physical theatre. Think you’re not a Hip Hop fan? Give ZooNation a go anyway and prepare to be surprised.

For something a little more light-hearted, the Orchard also plays host this month to comedians Stewart Francis (19th) and Henning Wehn (6th), and an evening with I’m a Celeb winner and football manager Harry Redknapp (13th). Peppa Pig returns with a brand new show to delight younger audiences (18th-20th), and there’s music from classical guitarist Miloš Karadaglić (7th) and Fastlove, the George Michael tribute (14th).

From Hip Hop to rock ‘n’ roll, ZooNation are closely followed by much-loved musical Buddy - The Buddy Holly Story (8th-12th). Charting the sensational but tragically brief career of a rock ‘n’ roll legend, the show is packed with classics like Peggy Sue, Oh Boy and That’ll Be The Day.

Finally, looking a little further afield, the Churchill in Bromley also has a couple of fun treats in store this month. Jason Manford, Carley Stenson and Ore Oduba star in Curtains (4th-6th), a new musical whodunnit from the creators of Cabaret and Chicago, and you can also catch guest Speaking of classics, DAODS return to the Orchard in star Peter Andre as the Teen Angel in Grease (8th-12th)!

October with their latest production, Footloose (23rd-

44

Please mention Dartford Living when contacting our advertisers | Interested in advertising? Tel: 01322 507817

CAR NEWS OCTOBER 2019

By Dhiren Ganesh

In this month’s article we look at new models from European manufacturers focusing on the electric market and a new hot hatch.

car and the Tesla Model S. A five-seater might be offered later to improve practicality and match the Model S. It will be availble to order from January 2020.

2020 Volkswagen ID 3 electric car – The Volkswagen ID 3 represents the start of a new chapter for its maker. The ID 3 is the genesis of the electric ID sub-brand. The ID 3 is similar in length to today’s Golf, but it’s significantly wider and taller. It also has more space between its front and rear axles, because there’s no engine to work around.

Design highlights include alloy wheels of up to 20in, a gloss black roof and tailgate and ‘interactive’ LED matrix headlights that “flutter their eyelids” as you approach.

Three versions will be offered going from 148bhp to 201bhp. Ranges of the car will be from 205 miles to 342 miles to rival the Tesla Model 3 range. The mid-range ID 3 from a rapid charger at its maximum rate of 100kW, you can add 155 miles in just half an hour. There’s a 10in touchscreen infotainment system mounted high on the dashboard and angled towards the driver, along with a smaller digital display. Prices are expetced to start from around £29,000, before the Government £3,500 grant 2020 Audi RS7 Sportback – this new hot hatch is based and will be available from Summer 2020. on a luxurious five-door coupé rather than a family runabout, but it still combines a hatchback-style boot 2020 Porsche Taycan electric car – The Porsche Taycan is opening which is good for practicality with scorching a Tesla-rivalling electric luxury saloon with up to 750bhp performance. It features a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 which and a 281-mile range. Two versions of the saloon are on produces 592bhp. That’s 212bhp more than you get in a offer: the £115,858 Turbo, with an official 281-mile range, Porsche 911 Carrera, and enough to get from 0-62mph and the more powerful, £138,826 Turbo S, which can cover in just 3.6sec. RS7 buyers can also choose from air and up to 261 miles. The Taycan’s closest competitor will be steel suspension and add rear-wheel steering, where the the Tesla Model S. That costs £81,550 in 375-mile Long rear wheels turn in the opposite direction to the fronts to Range form, while the Performance is £96,150 and has a improve cornering agility. Then when you’re in less of a range of 365 miles. The Taycan has a system that enables hurry, the engine can shut down half of its eight cylinders it to seamlessly switch between four-wheel drive, rear- to save fuel, while a mild hybrid system which allows the wheel drive and even front-wheel drive depending on car to coast for up to 40sec at a time with the engine the driving mode you’ve selected. The Taycan is shorter off also helps in this regard. The price is expected to be than Porsche’s conventionally powered Panamera luxury around £90,000 and available to order from early 2020. www.dartfordlivinglive.co.uk - www.dartfordliving.com - www.dartfordbusinessdirectory.co.uk

45

46

Please mention Dartford Living when contacting our advertisers | Interested in advertising? Tel: 01322 507817

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

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

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

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

Contact Clive 07542 477322 or dartfordeastallotments@ymail.com

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

47

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Temple Hill - Thursday Dartford

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

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

Advertise in the magazine for as little as £30 for a month Contact: sales@dartfordliving.com

Please mention Dartford Living when contacting our advertisers | Interested in advertising? Tel: 01322 507817

MEN AND WOMEN - ALL AGES WELCOME

St Michael & All Angels Church In association with Erith Model Railway Society

22nd Wilmington Model Railway Exhibition Stands Layouts Trade Support Raffle Refreshments Have a Go

St Michael’s Church Hall, Church Hill Wilmington, Dartford, DA2 7EG (B258) Saturday and Sunday

12 & 13 October 2019 10am – 5pm (Sat) 4.30pm (Sun) Adult £3, Child £1, Under 4s FREE

In aid of Demelza Hospice Care for Children, Railway Children, Cherished Memories & St Michael’s Youth Work Details: trains4charity@gmail.com www.stmichaelswilmington.org.uk Find us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Wilmingtonmodeltrainshow

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

49

WHERE TO GO LOCALLY CARE & SUPPORT THE NORTH WEST KENT BRANCH OF THE MOTOR NEURONE DISEASE ASSOCIATION meets on various date at Birchwood Country Club For more information contact Alexon 01322 228169.

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

Theo.Hodges@stroke.org.uk or 0743 7100 404, for more details THE WELLBEING LINK The Wellbeing Link meets on Friday mornings from 10-1pm in the St. Anselm’s

SOCIAL GROUPS Parish Centre, 89 West Hill, Dartford A friendly and informative group - call Julie On 07775875585 JUST FOR GROWN UPS GROUP We are a small friendly group who meet at the Meeting Place in the Orchards Shopping Centre on the first Tuesday of the month.

Join us any time between 11am and 1pm for a social chat, coffee and biscuits or a fun quiz. For more information contact mikeansell.dt@hotmail.co.uk

ALL DIRECTIONS is a community learning organisation for adults and young people aged 16+ with physical, learning and mental health difficulties. For more information, attend a taster session or visit our community lunch 20S 30S DARTFORD BEXLEYHEATH club, contact Caroline on 01322 440482 or SURROUNDING AREAS SOCIAL GROUP more information visit: 07570 347612 www.meetup.com/20s-30s-DartfordBexleyheath-surrounding-areas-socialAGE UK, CRAYFORD LIBRARY POP IN PARLOUR COFFEE MORNING every Friday group/ morning 10.30 - 12.30 Tea, Coffee, Biscuits DARTFORD U3A (UNIVERSITY OF and a chat - Just £1 THE THIRD AGE) meets on the first Tuesday of every month BEXLEY AND DARTFORD BRANCH (except August) at St Anselm’s Church Hall, PARKINSONS UK For people with Parkinsons and their carers. West Hill, Dartford at 2pm, For information about meetings and interest groups call Dartford: 2nd Wednesday of each month, 01474-709068 or visit our website.

Mick Jagger Centre, 7.30-9.30pm.

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

Contact Wendy Leach. Tel: 02083065973 CLUB We are a group of retired men who meet THE STROKE ASSOCIATION has 2 groups monthly for a lunch and a speaker at the Swanley Bowls Centre. We also have for stroke survivors with Communication a monthly walk and occasional coffee difficulties; one in Dartford and one in mornings and as a side line we raise money Gravesend. Please contact Michele at Dartford@stroke.org.uk or on 01622 3251 for a local charity. If you are missing the contact with other business men since you 962. retired, why not come and join us on the last Thursday of every month. For more Also, there is a social group, run by stroke details contact Phil Burt on 01322 274541 survivors for stroke survivors. It provides or look at our website www.waprobus.com excise classes, art sessions, outings, events and meetings. It meets at the YMCA, Dartford, DA1 1UP at 11.00 am on Tuesdays. Please contact Theo Hodges at THE NATIONAL WOMEN’S REGISTER

50

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

HEALTHCARE RETIREMENT GROUP Dartford & Gravesham Branch.

Meets the first Wednesday of every month at the Masonic Hall, West Hill, Dartford from 10-12pm.Activities include guest speakers, outings, lunches, holidays and quizzes. For more information contact Marion on 01322 402967 OVER 55’S CLUB - We meet every Wednesday 2pm to 4.30pm at Tree Community Centre, Cedar Road. We play bingo, tea and biscuits, and socialise. We also run regular coach trips to the coast throughout the year.

Our club is open to anyone over 55 wherever you live and costs just 60p to come along and join in. So why not come and join our friendly welcoming social club?

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

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

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

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

Please mention Dartford Living when contacting our advertisers | Interested in advertising? Tel: 01322 507817

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

All genres and writing styles are welcome including adult fiction, young adult/teen, children’s, non-fiction, writing for stage and screen and poetry. See us on Facebook “Bluewater Writers’ Group”

your personal abilities, your network and best of all it is not expensive.

For further info email Tony at: tonyjan@ talktalk.net

Facebook search: * Dartford Round Table * Round Table * Dartford Egg Hunt You will receive a very warm welcome.

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

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

For your chance to become involved in something very special, you need to experience it because no other organisation offers you the opportunities that Round Table does.

Check out the locally famous club www. dartfordroundtable.co.uk

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

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

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

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

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

London / Kent area. Every Friday - a safe Place to Meet.

Often called the original young man’s For more information please contact social club, Round Table has over 400 01322 287356 or 07503 306467 or email clubs in the UK and is in 50+ countries havenx35@gmail.com worldwide. We have an emphasis on having a lot of FUN. WILMINGTON WOMEN’S INSTITUTE is a friendly group who meet on the 2nd We guarantee that involvement with Wednesday of every month at 7.30pm in Round Table will enhance your social life, the Memorial Hall, High Road, Wilmington.

For more information on our activities please call Ann Hambridge on 01322 228082 DARTFORD ACTIVE RETIREMENT GROUP [DARTARA] We are a group that meets on second Thursday once a month 2 - 4pm at Fleetdown community centre. At the meeting we have a guest entertainer or speaker, we also organise holidays and day trips out as well as activities including theatre trips, curling, short mat bowls, indoor games, coffee and cake afternoons and an art group.

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

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

We also organise numerous social activities both for members and the wider community. For more information about the club’s activities and membership please contact Bob Phillips on 07815 807520 or John Smeeth on 07889 137951 THE ASSOCIATION OF BEXLEY CHARITIES ’78 will hold its Grand Autumn Fair at the United Reformed Church, Geddes Place, Bexleyheath DA6 7DJ (near the Broadway Shopping Centre) on Saturday 26th October 2019 from 9.45 am - 1.00 pm.

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

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

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

51

WHERE TO GO LOCALLY CLUBS AND SOCIETIES

images, or bring your own for us to copy.

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

members are always welcome.

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

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

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

Wednesdays 8.00-9.30p.m. Free £6.00, refreshments and a raffle with www.facebook.com/groups/ tuition with a very friendly, sociable the chance to take home a beautiful DSTCAlumni group. The ideal way to make new floral arrangement. Contact Carol friends. Phone Ester 01322 220458 01322 220802 THE MANOR HALL VARIETY GROUP or email: We meet every Tuesday at 8.00 in esther.correia1@btinternet.com DARTFORD BOOKS AND CULTURE the Community hall (opp St Paulinus CLUB church) Crayford. We are looking for NORTH WEST KENT FAMILY meets once a month on Saturday anyone who could help us with sound, HISTORY SOCIETY mornings at Dartford Library. For more lights, scenery or singing/acting on the information, find us at www.meetup. stage - everyone welcome. Email me The Dartford Branch meet the 1st Saturday of each month from 10amcom/West-Kent-Book-Club/ (Carolyn) for more details at 12:30pm at the Dartford Science and c_sawyers@hotmail.com.

Technology College, Heath Lane, For THE DARTFORD CHESS CLUB more information see www.nwkfhs.

The club meets every Thursday CRAYFORD TOWN ARCHIVE org.uk or ring Janet 01322384836 evening from 7.30pm at St Anselms incorporating Barnehurst and Slade Parish Hall, West Hill and was founded Green. Meet every Monday (except ERITH MODEL RAILWAY SOCIETY 100 years ago in 1914. All queries to the third Monday) of the month at has been in existence for over 50 years Mike Wiltshire at 01322 272152 or visit Crayford Library hall - 2pm-4pm. Call and has well over 50 active members. www.dartfordchessclub.co.uk in for a chat about old Crayford and As the club continues to grow new to view the large collection of local 52

Please mention Dartford Living when contacting our advertisers | Interested in advertising? Tel: 01322 507817

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

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

COLUMBINE CHINA PAINTERS CLUB meets on the 1st and 3rd Thursday each month at Sutton at Hone Village Hall. 1.30pm until 4.30pm. £3.00 per afternoon (to include a raffle ticket and tea/coffee) £10.00 yearly fee.

We are a small, friendly club, not expensive. Tuition given. All supplies can be bought in situe. Come and see if you like it, You will be very welcome.

Contact - Maureen Beckham 01322 287214. Marie Blake 01474 704581.

Doreen Goddard 01474 707357.

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

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

Weatherspoons.

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

SHORNE FLOWER ARRANGERS Our Club presents a programme of workshops and demonstrations in a very informal and friendly atmosphere. We meet on the last Thursday of each month except December. Shorne Village Hall, The Street, Shorne. DA12 3EA. Visitors are always made very welcome, entry £3.

We have 30 members and look forward to welcoming anyone who loves flowers. The Club provides an opportunity for people to be creative, make friends.

For further information please phone 01474 353405 or email landaclatworthy@ btinternet.com SWANLEY HISTORY GROUP Meets 1st Tuesday of every month.

Presentations on local social history.

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

NORTH KENT EMBROIDERERS’ GROUP Meets on the third Saturday of every month (except August) from 2pm - 4pm in the Community Room of Gravesend Library, Windmill Street, Gravesend DA12 1BE. The programme of activities is varied with workshops, talks and sit and stitch sessions. Visitors are very welcome. More information can be found on our website www.northkentembroiderers.co.uk or phone 01474324734.

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

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

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

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

THE GARDENING CLUB SUTTON AT HONE If you would like to find out more please Monthly meetings, Visits to Gardens, register your interest Annual Garden Show and much more. For more www.girlguiding.org.uk/interested information or to become a member please ring 01322 863556.

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

53

WHERE TO GO LOCALLY DARTFORD’S BIG SING

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

Come along when you can and sing with us!

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

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

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

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

ERITH YOUTH RUGBY

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

WHEELCHAIR EPEE FENCING

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

KENT EXILES AMERICAN FOOTBALL CLUB

www.kentexiles.co.uk.

Coach Martin - 07944 730634.

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

5 YEAR OLDS

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

Call Saj on 07903 513104

DARTFORD GYMNASTICS

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

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

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

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

SPORTS GROUPS AND CLUBS

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

YOGA WITH EMMA

Becket Sports Centre (evenings):

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

ENERGY FITNESS AND NUTRITION

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

The website is www.energyfitnut.co.uk

HARTLEY SWIMCLUB AT WHITE OAK POOL, SWANLEY

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

Contact Diane on 01689 871846 or join us one Thursday.

DARTFORD JU JITSU CLUB

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

We have an adult class 8-10pm too.

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

DARTFORD ORIENTEERING

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

Please mention Dartford Living when contacting our advertisers | Interested in advertising? Tel: 01322 507817

HOP LIKE IT’S HOT

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

THE HIGHLY STRUNG BADMINTON CLUB,

Friendly club seeking new members.

Abilities mixed.

Would suit players with some prior experience.

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

WAR GAMES AND MODEL CLUB

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

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

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

www.seedscycling.co.uk

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

YOGA & MEDITATION CLASSES

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

DARTFORD BOCCIA CLUB

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

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

All welcome.

Facebook: Dartford Boccia Club

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

55

ADVERTISERS INDEX

DIRECTORY OF LOCAL BUSINESSES ADVERTISING IN DARTFORD LIVING ACCOUNTANTS, FINANCE & LEGAL Downton Ali Associates....................................................59 BEAUTY Gorgeous Nail & Beauty....................................................10 BUILDERS, DECORATORS, ROOFING, BATHROOMS, HEATING, KITCHENS, WINDOWS & DOORS Claremont Decorative Services........................................36 PBH....................................................................................46 Steve Cook - Double Glazing.............................................22 The Double Glazing Repair Man.........................................4 CAFE Two Trees Cafe ................................................................37 CAR CARE ChipsAway..........................................................................11 CHILDREN Bip Bop Shop................................................................19 Dartford Our Space.....................................................47 Monkey Music...............................................................55 CHURCH Crossways Church.........................................................7 COUNCIL Dartford Borough Council ................................................31 CLEANING Time 4 U ..............................................................................5 ENTERTAINMENT Orchard Theatre................................................................43 ESTATE/ LETTING AGENTS Fox Estates ........................................................................17 Wisdom Estates.................................................................23

56

FARM SHOP H&M Foods........................................................................15 Stanhill Farm......................................................................4 GARAGES & VEHICLE SERVICES Orchard Garage.................................................................60 Shenley Road Garage.........................................................7 GARDENING Bow Arrow Gardening........................................................7 JEWELLERY Bradleys..............................................................................25 LOGISTICS/ REMOVALS FD TRANSPORT ..........................................................38 NURSERY The Brent Playgroup....................................................47 MEDICAL AND HEALTH Delmergate Pharmacy.................................................15 Slimming World...............................................................2 MUSIC/DANCE & FITNESS Blondies Fitness.................................................................22 Dartford Bootcamps..........................................................32 Fairfield Leisure Centre.....................................................30 On Pointe Pilates................................................................19 Why Weight?......................................................................20 OPTICIANS Linklater Opticians.............................................................43 PET SERVICES Happy Pet Hotel.................................................................16 PICTURE FRAMING Craft Frames.......................................................................38

Please mention Dartford Living when contacting our advertisers | Interested in advertising? Tel: 01322 507817

RESTAURANT EFES...................................................................................18 SECURITY Butler Security...................................................................46 Excel Security Systems.....................................................39 LKE Installations................................................................34 SPORTS Dartford Football Club..................................................40,41 Fairfield Leisure Centre.....................................................28 Paul Page Golf Academy......................................................7 TUTOR my Bluewater tutor............ ................................................49 WILL WRITING SMN Will Writing ..........................................................38

THINKING OF ADVERTISING?

We offer amazing value advertising with adverts starting from just £30 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 and Sales

SIZE AND RATES FULL PAGE

210mm by 148mm from

HALF PAGE

96mm by 148mm from

£122*

£76*

QUARTER PAGE

FRONT PAGE

96mm by 69mm from

£30*

54mm by 128mm

£250

+Free Full Page

*All prices are at the discounted rate when taking out advertising over a period of a year. Full rates can be found at www.dartfordliving.com/advertise

01322 507817

sales@dartfordliving.com www.dartfordliving.com

YOUR NEXT DEADLINE IS 12TH OCTBOER 2019

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

57

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

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

08457 697 555 Citizens Advice Bureau: 01322 472 979 Debt Councilling (CAP) 0800 328 0006 Information About Drugs FRANK: 0800 776600 Kent Homophobic Incident Reporting Line: 0800 328 9162 Kent Racial Incident Reporting Line: 0800 138 1624 Local Breastfeeding Counsellors Judianne/Paula 01322 224072 HEALTH National Domestic Violence Darent Valley Hospital Helpline (24 hour) 01322 428100 Dartford East Health Centre 0808 2000 247 01322 421480 NSPCC Child Protection Helpline: Boots Chemist Bluewater 0808 800 5000 01322 624780 (Late Night) RSPCA Kent, ASDA Greenhithe Chemist North West Branch Helpline 01322 374100 (Late Night) The National Pandemic Flu Service 01322 286720 Samaritans: 0800 1513 100 116 123 West Kent NHS helpline 0800 0 850850 LOCAL MP Gareth Johnson 020 7219 7047 TRAVEL Heathrow Airport Enquires LOCAL SPORTS CLUBS 08700 000123 Bexley Rugby Club Gatwick Airport Enquires 01322 550142 or 08700 002468 www.pitchero.com/clubs/ National Rail Enquires bexleyrfc/ 08456 484950 Dartford Ladies Hockey Club Highways England Info Line Dawn Hall (Secretary) 07793 777250 0300 123 5000 Dartford Ju Jitsu Club Mondays, Dartford Girls HELPLINES Grammar School, Shepherds 24 Hour Kent Dementia Helpline: Lane. 6.30-8.00 Juniors, 0800 500 3014 8.00-10.00 Seniors www.

Alcoholics Anonymous: dartfordjujitsu.co.uk 58

Dartford Sharks Basketball Club Tim Dickson - 07855 692527.

Dartford Volleyball Club Graham - 01322 275290 or 07984 106134.

Stone Lodge Indoor Bowling Club 01322 274111.

VCD Table Tennis Club Eric Jenkins - 0208 3038312.

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

Jacqui 07764 182854.

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

Please mention Dartford Living when contacting our advertisers | Interested in advertising? Tel: 01322 507817

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

59

W E ’ R E P R O U D T O A N N O U C E T H AT

our second site at Heath Lane

is now fully open!

MOT

Servicing

Repairs

Car Sales Tyres

Aircon

Electric/Hybrid

We’re an award-winning garage committed to serving our local community Our new MOT bay is now open at Heath Lane.

Check when your MOT is next due and get booked in with us.

01322 271000 www.orchardgarageltd.co.uk Visit us at: 128 Park Road, Dartford, DA1 1SZ or 157-161 Heath Lane, Dartford, DA1 2TW 60

Please mention Dartford Living when contacting our advertisers | Interested in advertising? Tel: 01322 507817