Dartford Living September 2020

INSIDE THE MAGAZINE ELLENOR CHARITY RIDE

SHARING THE AVOID COVID EMOTIONAL SCAMS LOAD

PAGE 13

PAGES 26 & 27

SEPTEMBER 2020 - ISSUE 171 - FREE

PAGES 34 & 35

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BY THE CO M M U N I T Y,

BY THE COMMUNITY, FOR THE COMMUNITY

Dear Readers, Welcome to the September magazine.

We live in strange times, but as usual the magazine is jam packed with lots of local information and local businesses. Please support as many as you can - use them or lose them! Like no time before your community needs you.

In case you weren’t aware, we run Dartford Living alongside volunteer members of the local community FOR the local community.

It’s the only independently run magazine serving the local area with information, fun, good news and positive local stories!

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

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

Until next time, stay safe,

CONTENTS 6 Annual Canvass 13 ellenor Charity Ride 14 Dartford Giving 16 Recipe 22 Would you like to relax and sleep more easily?

24-25 Italian Islands - Harden Holidays 26-27 Sharing the emotional load 28 Fitness September 32 We are Beams virtual raffle 34-35 Avoid COVID-19 Scams 37 Lift the pressure of September spending 38 Life under the stairs 41 Rescue is best 44 Online Theatre roundup 46 Painted Rocks 47 Car News 49 Sporting Roundup 48-55 Where to go locally 56-57 Advertisers Index 58 Useful Numbers

DARTFORD LIVING MAGAZINE PRINTED BY:

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

Front cover photo by Karen Williamson

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

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dA RT FO R D l I V I NG MAGAZ I NE P R I NTED BY:

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dA RT FO R D l I V I NG MAGAZ I NE P R I NTED BY:

DON’T LOSE YOUR VOICE - RESIDENTS IN DARTFORD URGED TO LOOK OUT FOR THEIR VOTER REGISTRATION DETAILS

take account of public health guidelines, including the continued importance of social distancing.”

People who have moved recently are particularly encouraged to look out for the voter registration messages from Dartford Borough Council and check the details.

Research by the Electoral Commission indicates that recent home movers are far less likely to be registered than those who have lived at the same address for a The annual canvass ensures that Dartford Borough long time. Across Great Britain, 92% of people who have Council can keep the electoral register up to date, been at their property for more than sixteen years will be identifying any residents who are not registered so registered, compared to 36% of people who have lived that they can be encouraged to do so. at an address for less than one year.

Local residents are being warned not to lose their voice on decisions that affect them by making sure their electoral registration details are up to date.

With elections taking place in Dartford in May 2021, this is an important opportunity for residents to make sure they can take part.

The Electoral Registration Officer at Dartford Bororugh Council said: “It’s important that residents keep an eye out for messages from Dartford Borough Council, so we can make sure we have the right details on the electoral register for every address in the Borough.

To make sure you are able to have your say at elections taking place next year, simply follow the instructions from your local authority.

Melanie Davidson, Head of Support and Improvement at the Electoral Commission, said:

“It’s really important that everyone who is entitled to vote is able to do so. Making sure you provide the necessary information to your local authority when it is needed will ensure the process runs smoothly. This is particularly helpful in the current public health situation, as it will help avoid the need for home visits from canvassers.

There’s lots of helpful information about registering to If you’re not currently registered, your name will vote on our website https://www.electoralcommission. not appear in the messages we send. If you want org.uk/i-am-a/voter.” to register, the easiest way is online at www.gov. uk/register-to-vote, or we’ll send you information Any residents who have any questions can contact their explaining how to do this in the post. local registration team at 01322 343501.

This year’s canvass, which we have to carry out by law, is taking place during a challenging public health situation. We are working to ensure that we

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Dartford Living is much more than just a magazine!

We have a massive presence online through social media and our website. We also have an online business directory and free quarterly networking events.

Need help with design and marketing? We can help you! We can provide advice and offer website design and other graphic design assistance. When it comes to marketing we can offer the full spectrum of social media marketing as well as brochure and website copy. Great design and marketing is so important if you want your business to stand out! www.dartfordliving.com www.dartfordlivinglive.co.uk www.dartfordliving.design

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By B as i a Wi lso n

ELLENOR CHARITY CYCLE RIDE

By Basia Wilson Construction says: “Baxall are delighted to support this fundraising activity with a difference, and we are delighted to do our part in supporting ellenor”.

Ride Local is an exciting charity cycling challenge suitable for every level of cyclist.

“We’ve had everyone from 6 years old upwards signing up, and whether it’s about boosting your fitness or raising money for the charity, all contributions help provide care for adults and children living with life limiting or terminal illness.

The current coronavirus pandemic has heightened uncertainty for many families under our care and it is vital that we are able to continue our specialist services to some of the most vulnerable in our local community. The support you give ellenor is essential and as a charity, we will continue to need it now and into the future. We can only continue thanks to your kindness and generosity” says Emma Bowles, ellenor interim Events Fundraising Manager.

Some races can only be won together.

Please join us in supporting ellenor to raise awareness and funds for children’s and adults’ hospice and palliative care services across Kent.

Ride Local 100 runs from Saturday 1 August – Wednesday 30 September and all participants must comply with current lockdown and social distancing restrictions. For more information, and to take part, see https://ellenor.org/events/event-details/ ride-local-100

Throughout August and September, we are asking our supporters to join us in our Virtual Ride Local Cycling Challenge. Whether you are cycling for fitness, for fun or for the challenge, you will be helping us provide vital support to more than 3,000 people in Kent every year.

Sponsored by Paddock Wood-based Baxall Construction, the event invites individuals, families and friends to ride a distance of your choosing - 100, 50 or 25 miles – which can be done either on an exercise bike at home or on a bike discovering the Kent countryside with friends and family. You can complete the distance at a pace that suits you, be it in one ride or across multiple rides, and record your distance on a GPS app such as Strava, Fitbit or Garmin.

Malcom Clarke, Managing Director at Baxall 13

DA RT FO R D G I V I NG

DARTFORD GIVING

By Kate Hargreaves

Hello again and welcome back to Dartford Giving.

If you left school long ago, but September still brings about some back-to-school vibes for you, maybe you’d like to consider being a school governor, so that you can really get in on the education action.

need the right attitude, time to contribute and a DBS check, which the school will arrange.

“Anything else I need to know?” A lot of training is provided, so you should always feel supported.

The role formally lasts four years, but you can be re-appointed or leave sooner if necessary.

Schools benefit from having a range of professional knowledge on their governing board, including finance, HR, legal, marketing, organisational change and property management, so this could make you an especially in-demand candidate. For more information, take a look at www.nga.org.uk/ Governance-Recruitment/Be-a-school-governor-ortrustee.

School governor “What is it?” A school’s governing body provides strategic leadership and accountability. It holds the headteacher to account for the school’s educational performance, oversees the school’s financial performance and contributes to the school’s vision and strategic direction. It might sound a bit daunting, but your responsibilities are shared with the other governors (usually 8–20 people, depending on the size of the school). If the school is an academy, you’re a ‘trustee’ rather than a ‘governor’, but the “This sounds great, how do I get involved?” If you role is essentially the same. have a specific school in mind, you can look on its website, but it might be worth emailing too in case “Would I enjoy it?” If you want to contribute to your the website isn’t up-to-date. Alternatively, sign up local community and make a real difference to to https://www.inspiringthefuture.org/volunteers/ young people’s lives, then yes. A big part of governor to search for vacancies anywhere. If nothing is meetings is asking questions, so if you’re naturally immediately available near you, schools can contact curious and inquisitive, this could be great for you. you when vacancies become available based on “What would I get out of it?” This role can offer a your profile and preferences. lot in terms of your own personal development as you can develop a lot of skills, from teamwork to If you have any questions, feel free to email problem solving, having difficult conversations to kate@dartfordliving.com. Happy volunteering! analysing data. It’s great on your CV as it’s one of the few places where you can get board-level experience without being super experienced in a specific industry (and if you are already working at that level, your experience would be much appreciated by schools!).

“How much time do I need for it?” Meetings are usually each term (six a year), and typically last a couple of hours (like most things, these are currently via video call). Being a school governor is a public duty for which you have a right to reasonable time off work, but whether this is paid is at your employer’s discretion. You may choose to get involved in additional tasks, such as being on a committee (e.g., pay review or pupil exclusion) or attending monitoring visits in the school, which take up a bit more time, but can be really interesting.

“Are there any requirements?” You must be over 18 and there are some specific exceptions (check the website below). You don’t need to be a parent or have knowledge of the education system, you just

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TO F F EE A P P LE

TOFFEE APPLE CRUMBLE CAKE

By Debbie Dickinson These is a great, delicious Autumn recipe. Bake as a cake or in a larger tin to make fabulous, shallower cake bars that are perfect for lunchboxes!

You’ll need: For the toffee apple: 2 Tbsp. Golden Syrup (or 3 tbsp. brown sugar and 2tbsp butter) 3 Apples, peeled and chopped into small dice For the cake: 200g Margarine 125g Brown Sugar 3 Eggs 200g Self Raising Flour 100g Plain Flour 2 tsp Cinnamon Pinch Nutmeg (optional) For the crumble topping: 15g Sugar 25g Unsalted Butter 25g Plain Flour 50g Porridge Oats

What to do: For the toffee apple: Heat the golden syrup (or sugar/butter mix) and boil gentle for a few minutes. Add the apples, turn down the heat a little, and simmer gently until softened. Leave to cool.

For the cake: Cream the Margarine and sugar until pale and fluffy.

Add the eggs and flour gradually, mixing well.

Remember to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure an even mix!

Add your toffee apple mix, and spices, and stir until combined.

Pour into a square 6” cake tin (or square 9” for cake bars) – lined with butter and baking paper.

For the crumble topping: In another bowl, mix together the flour and sugar for the crumble topping.

Crumble in the butter and rub, using fingertips only, into the flour/sugar mix.

Mix in the oats and sprinkle into the tin over the cake mixture.

Bake at 140°C for 60 minutes or until golden and a skewer/knife/cocktail stick comes out clean after being inserted in the centre of the cake.

Enjoy!

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WOULD YOU LIKE TO RELAX AND SLEEP MORE EASILY?

By Clair Yates Two months ago, in this magazine, I told you there - You’ll be making the exhalation double the length of was an exercise so powerful that within a couple the inhalation. This will increase the relaxation response. of minutes practice it could lower your heart rate, Your job is to control the exhalation, so you can slowly boost your digestion and improve your sleep and let the breath out, without running out of air. this month I am going to share that practice with you, so that you too can experience more restful - Place your right hand on your heart and your left hand sleep, relax more easily and improve your digestion. on your belly.

This relaxation practice is very simple and yet has a powerful downregulating effect on the nervous system, stimulating the parasympathetic response that is soothing and calming.

Down-regulating breathing techniques, relieve stress, boost our digestion – hence the term rest and digest - and can help put you to sleep. It’s important to note that these practices can leave you feeling groggy and soporific so do use with care.

For this downregulating, calming effect we need to reduce the rate of our breath to below 4 breathes per minute, triggering the rest and digest nervous system response, reducing our heart rate, reducing activity in our skeletal muscles, and improving our ability to digest our food. This type of breathing is great after meals, in the evening, and mostcommonly, right before bed.

This practice should be done seated or lying down, and never while driving or doing anything standing or active. It’s extremely common to fall asleep while using this breathing practice, so it should be used with care, only when appropriate. To summarise: • Use primarily before bed • Can be used (with care) to reduce intense stress or anxiety • After eating, this breathing pattern can aid in digestion To begin: - Lie down on your back, on the ground or in bed, with your head supported by something like a pillow or cushion.

22

You’re aiming for the right hand to remain still and the left hand to rise and fall with the breath as you practice.

Sometimes it’s helpful to visualize the belly as a balloon, on the inhale you can feel the belly expand and on the exhale you can feel the belly deflating.

- Close your eyes.

- Inhale slowly to the count of 4, pause.

- Exhale slowly to the count of 8, pause.

- Repeat 10 times - Relax the hands down beside you. Eyes remain closed.

Let the breath find it’s own natural rhythm. Notice how you feel.

Let me know how you get on. Take care of yourself, Clair.

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TOP 5 MOST BEAUTIFUL ITALIAN ISLANDS

By Harden Holidays

When we think of islands, we think of escapism, perfect beaches, and the ultimate opportunity for relaxation. The Italian islands give us glamour, seductive cuisine, and unique island landscapes. Italy has over 450 islands large and small, including sea, lake, and river islands. If you are asking yourself where in Italy should I visit? Find our Top 5 below.

5. AEOLIAN ISLANDS OF ITALY Off the coast of Sicily these Italian Islands are a collection of tiny volcanic islands.

Rising out of clear blue seas, these idyllic islands are worthy of film sets. The island of Vulcano (which has a visibly smoking crater) is said to be the chimney of roman fire god Vulcan’s workshop.

Best time to visit: With long summers and no crowds, these islands are perfect to visit from April to October.

What to do: There are 7 main islands to visit (Vulcano, Salina, Lipari, Panera, Stromboli, Filicudi and Alicudi), all can be visited on boat trips. The islands volcanic springs and mud baths are said to have healing qualities.

Where to stay: Watch brilliant sunsets and indulge in healing spa treatments at Therasia Resort Sea & Spa in Vulcano.

4. SARDINIA Sardinia is quite simply heaven. Long white sand beaches are met by clear turquoise waters. Pretty rock formations provide a delightful contrast, creating the trademark patchwork of colours seen in Sardinia’s waters. So overly tempting is Sardinia, you will only believe it when you see it.

Best time to visit: For luxury family holidays the weather in July and August is very inviting. Sardinia enjoys long summers; for a beach retreat you can still find warm weather in April and late October.

What to do: Visit some of Sardinia’s natural wonders such as Neptunes grotto and the Maddalena Archipelego. For luxury holidays in Sardinia you will find beaches, yacht clubs and nightlife in the luxury resort of Costa Smerelda.

Top 5 M o st B e au t ifu l I ta l i a n i s l a n d s

Where to stay: In a perfect position to enjoy the beach, Hotel Relais Villa del Golfo & Spa is a superb luxury hotel. Sardinia is also great for couples, why not visit Sardinia on a romantic getaway?

3. SICILY The unique culture is made up of Italian style, fascinating history, and a slow-paced Mediterranean charisma. The seductive coastline of Sicily is dotted with secluded coves, volcanic rock formations and a mix of sand and pebble beaches.

Just as diverse as its coast, the inland is laden with flowery mountain meadows, lush valleys, and the alluring smoky hull of Mount Etna.

Best time to visit: Sicily enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and long summers, with a warm breeze from North Africa.

What to do: Do not miss the arty and youthful city of Palermo or the humbling Valley of the Temples.

Take a step on the indulgent side with wine tasting or buckle up your walking shoes and take on Mount Etna. Beautiful Taormina has pretty buildings hidden behind vines and colourful flowers.

Where to stay: San Domenico Palace hotel is a converted monastery, providing an enchanting atmosphere in which to enjoy the delights of a luxury holiday to Sicily.

2. ISCHIA Volcanic beginnings and plentiful colourful gardens make up this pretty, un-hurried island.

Ischia is a haven for hikers and beach lovers alike, with stunning landscapes including the famous fumaroles and warming thermal springs. The calm sandy beaches and lush vegetation create the typical island clichĂŠ, making it one of the most inviting Italian islands.

Best time to visit: Spring in Ischia is highly pleasant with colourful blooms which fragrance the air.

Following suit with the rest of Italy, Ischia enjoys mild winters and long warm summers.

What to do: For lovers of hiking and nature, Mount Epomeo is a rewarding hike and La Mortella

panoramic gardens are a great way to get a snapshot of the island’s beautiful flora and fauna.

For a snapshot of history, Aragonese castle is an impressive medieval castle.

The most popular past time is to simply enjoy the luxury lifestyle, with yachts, beaches, and superb cuisine.

Where to stay: Right in the heart of a fashionable lido area, Il Moresco Hotel offers a relaxing stay in a beautiful garden setting.

1. CAPRI A luxury jewel in the Mediterranean. The captivating island of Capri is filled with Italian glamour and the perfect dose of paradise. Its wild cliffs and scented blooms create a seductive atmosphere that will leave you wanting more. The peaceful vibe has long charmed the elite who flock in the pursuit of self-indulgence and luxury. This Italian island is a cocktail of quaint piazzas, swish cafes, and exclusive yacht clubs.

Best time to visit: The main tourist season runs between April and November. In winter you will find a more authentic and sleepy side of the island.

What to do: Rent a boat, shop in luxury boutiques, and visit the islands stunning beaches. You can discover the Blue Grotto sea cave, where the sunlight creates fluorescent blue waters. For an unforgettable view of the island take the chairlift up Mount Solero and float high above this beautiful island.

Where to stay: Sophistication, glamour and pure luxury, the Capri Palace Hotel and Spa in Anacapri offers magnificent views and exceptional high service.

To discuss your next Italian adventure, speak to our team on 0800 023 8974 or pop in and see us in Dartford town centre.

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IPU NURSES: SHARING THE EMOTIONAL LOAD WITH PATIENTS AND THEIR FAMILIES

want for our own loved ones and, when the time comes, an end that is peaceful, comfortable and dignified. Despite the challenges of a global pandemic, that dedication is unwavering and the ellenor team has adapted and pulled together as never before. Pivotal to the cohesion of the team is Lisa Ball, Staff Nurse in ellenor’s Inpatient Unit (IPU). Here, she reflects on the impact Covid has had on the patients she cares for, their families and the ellenor team.

“I hope that the fact I’ve worked my way up through the nursing ranks gives me real perspective on what it takes to nurse effectively and compassionately. I began as a healthcare assistant, worked in the acute sector in Tunbridge Wells Hospital, but – as a Gravesend girl – I wanted to put something back into my local community. Plus, I know work doesn’t get more hands-on than it does at ellenor and that the ethos here is all about taking time with patients and their families, both to treat them medically and to understand their needs as individuals. I took up my role as staff nurse on the IPU in March. Then Covid-struck.

“While my role will always be to support patients and their families medically, we’re also here to explain things to them and to make sure they understand the options open to them. Never has this been more vital than it is now, when Covid has thrown so much into chaos. Our patients and their families need the reassurance that we’re with them every step of the way, no matter what.

In these unprecedented times, as a charity expert in palliative care, ellenor continues to play a vital role in supporting our local community, our NHS and healthcare colleagues. Ellenor has a large team of healthcare professionals, support staff and volunteers, all of whom share one goal. This is to give every child or adult patient and their families the expert care and support we would

26

“We’ve been so busy as a team that the only thing we can do is keep on going. We’re still smiling behind our masks, but this has been an incredibly steep learning curve – from getting to grips with the practicalities of wearing full PPE to handling our own fears. Anything we as staff are enduring, though, is nothing compared to what patients and their families are going through. Their Covid-enforced social distancing from one another is incredibly difficult and, understandably, emotions are riding high. At least relatives can now come in to see loved ones under carefully controlled conditions – but for some that seems even harder: they can be together,

“Web v’een so busa teysam thta h to en th yln ig w cean dko seio epn goin W g smi serlt.’ein ilg behn i our dmasbu ktsh ,tsiabseen an i credsiby tleea prnn ig curv from –e getn tig to gw ripsth tih preactica of etislwearing fu Pto PEh landn ilg our own feaArn s.ythn ig w ases taffern edurintg hou , g n sih o ,thn ig comparetd o whpaetinatsntd h faeirmil

yet they can’t touch. And – as has been the case for relatives of some of our patients who’ve come to us from hospital – seeing someone for the first time having not seen then for six weeks can be very traumatic indeed. It’s our job as caring professionals to help everyone handle these situations and the emotions they unleash as best they possibly can. Some of our patients, who have taken the decision to shield themselves to the very end, will die with only our staff here to support them. The nursing staff are fine-tuned to changes in a patient’s medical condition, so we can alert the family the minute these occur and encourage them to come in if necessary. Never has our care and compassion been more important.

“With patients and families often feeling powerless, we’re doing all we can to sit down with those who come in and talk through all their concerns. But we’re spending far more time on the phone rather than face-to-face, which is so frustrating for everyone. Quite understandably, patients and their families offload to us – that’s what we’re here for – but it does get very tough at times. I’ve been sat with my head in my hands crying, and someone else in the team will pop by with a cup of tea and just listen. It’s listening that’s the absolute essential skill for all of us at the moment, I think.

“What’s been particularly brilliant is the speed at which we’ve been able to get our inpatients back home when that’s where they’ve wanted to be – one man was back with his wife and daughters within eight hours. And the outside agencies such as occupational therapists have worked with us to ensure everything necessary – a hospital-standard bed, for instance – is in place at home as quickly as possible, too, meaning it’s practical and safe for the patient to return.

“The sheer scale of this pandemic has meant new, often frightening, circumstances, even on top of the life-limiting conditions our patients are dealing with. The fact that ellenor has coped, is coping and will continue to cope with professionalism and kindness even in these very hardest of times makes me know how strong we are as a team and gives me faith in the future. We are here for our patients and their families and for one another, and we always will be.“

Full-time, experienced, qualified yoga teacher, teaching practical yoga and meditation classes in the local community and now online.

When Government advice allows, the regular schedule of in person group classes in Hextable, Swanley, Sidcup and Bexleyheath will resume. For now, all regular group classes are being held online.

Yoga Alliance Professionals Senior Yoga Teacher and British Wheel of Yoga Foundation Course Tutor, I am qualified and experienced in making yoga accessible.

I teach an embodied and practical approach to yoga, breath work and meditation, appropriate for all ages and abilities. You don’t need to be flexible to start!

My classes are friendly, everybody is welcome, so come and see how it feels to tune in and connect yourself and feel better. Please visit my website for more information or email me at clair.crestyoga@gmail.com.

I look forward to hearing from you.

27

F I TNESS - SE P TE M B E R

FITNESS - SEPTEMBER

By Mark Broadbent

Shifting belly fat

Abs have always been considered a sign of a good physique (despite the fact even the skinniest of teenagers can have “abs”), and as such there have been so many “ab” plans promoted to us, gimmicky gadgets and gizmos to work your abs, 10-minute abs, 8-minute abs, 6-minute abs etc. etc.

I get it. Most of us want that 6-pack look and if we can get that in 8 minutes a day, or by sitting with an electric belt on, why wouldn’t we?!

But these things don’t really work.

The fact of the matter is, we all have abs, it’s just a case of whether you can see them or not – which is down to the amount of bodyfat you have over the top of them.

You can work your abs for 8 hours a day, but if you have a 2-inch layer of fat covering them, nobody’s going to see them!

Whilst working your abs with specific exercises will help to strengthen and shape your abs, uncovering them is a case of reducing bodyfat levels to a point where they become visible, and sit-ups and crunches won’t do that.

To shift the layer of fat over your abs, you have to shift the bodyfat from your entire body – you can’t just lose fat from one area at a time.

To do this, you need some basic nutrition in place, as well as a good training plan that will encourage your body to retain muscle and burn fat for fuel.

So what do you need to do…?

Make sure you’re in a calorie deficit.

This is the most basic principle of weight loss – if you’re burning more calories than you’re consuming, you’ll lose weight.

Make sure you’re eating nutritious foods.

It’s not just about calories. You need to be giving your body what it needs to build and maintain muscle and stay healthy. Luckily, the most nutritious foods are often low in calories so you can eat a lot and get plenty of vitamins and minerals and easily maintain your calorie deficit.

Train. With weights (women too!).

Resistance training is the key to making your body burn fat instead of muscle whilst in a calorie deficit. Use your muscles and your body will keep hold of them and use more bodyfat for fuel. Don’t use your muscles and your body will see them as an “expense”, costing valuable calories that it’s not getting whilst in a calorie deficit – meaning less fat burned, and some muscle lost.

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Sorry, but running every day, doing spin classes or going to Zumba aren’t going to get the same results - if you enjoy them, do them, but incorporate weight training into your routine at least 2-3 times a week.

Use compound lifts.

Big, full-body movements work more muscles at once – meaning you’ll be burning more fuel and stimulating more muscle. This, again, means your body will be working to maintain muscle, meaning it’s using fat for fuel.

It may feel like you need to do endless sit-ups to get your abs out, but in reality they’re only a small part of the puzzle. Focus on the points above and you’ll start to see your abs without doing a single “ab exercise”.

Once you’ve lost enough bodyfat to start to see your abs, then you can start to bring in more specific exercises to target that area but don’t jump the gun, 1,000’s of crunches aren’t going to make your abs visible.

Sadly we can’t just sit with a belt on or do a 5-minute ab circuit every now and then.

So if you want to see your abs, work on these basic training and nutrition principles and you can “belly” laugh at the people still waiting for their crunch machine to show some results!

As always, if you want my help getting a suitable training and nutrition plan set up, get in touch and we can go through your options. www.MBonlinePT.com @MarkBroadbentPT

F I TNESS - SE P TE M B E R

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Support for local businesses from

We’re doing everything we can to help Dartford shops, businesses and markets get up-and-running again. It’s not something we can rush and as they start to open EVERY shopper has a big part to play.

PLEASE KEEP YOUR DISTANCE WHILST SHOPPING Putting space between you and other shoppers can help stop the spread of the virus. Maintain social distancing at every opportunity.

PLEASE DON’T TAKE THE WHOLE FAMILY We’re not yet ready to recommend shopping as a family or social activity.

Please don’t shop in groups.

WASH YOUR HANDS BEFORE AND AFTER SHOPPING Get in the habit of washing your hands before you set out shopping and wash again as soon as you get home.

TRY SHOPPING AT DIFFERENT TIMES Shops are generally well-stocked so avoiding peak shopping times can help key retail workers manage demand and social distancing.

Consider shopping earlier or later than usual.

FINALLY- BE KIND, BE PATIENT and BE UNDERSTANDING These are tough times for everyone - retail workers and shopkeepers included. Be patient and understand that everyone is trying their very best.

Jeremy Kite, Leader of the Council

DARTFORD

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By C h ri st i n a U pp e n k a mp - Hom e I n st e a d S e n ior Ca r e

AVOIDING COVID SCAMS

By Christina Uppenkamp - Home Instead Senior Care

COVID-19 has seen a proliferation of Coronavirus related scams. Scammers are experts at exploitation.

The novel Coronavirus pandemic has left many people vulnerable, and people who are vulnerable are, unfortunately, much easier to exploit. Knowledge is power! Protect your loved ones by familiarising them with the most common types of COVID-19 scams, the means by which scammers target people, and actionable tips for identifying and combating scams.

Common Types of COVID-19 Scams Scams come in all shapes and sizes, but certain types are especially common. The most prevalent types of COVID-19 scams are: Investment Scams Scammers are capitalising on the fact that many people are financially at-risk right now. When the light at the end of the tunnel is dim, people are less inclined to ask questions when a windfall or investment opportunity arises, even if it seems too good to be true. While they’ve become much more prevalent during the pandemic, investment scams have been around for quite some time. In 2015, the government relaxed rules on tax-free pension withdrawals, and since then, scammers have been targeting pensioners with investment scams. Note that it’s illegal to call someone about their pension without a formal arrangement (a set call or meeting time), so if you or your loved one receives a call, but you haven’t set one up, then the call is likely a scam.

Insurance Scams The Association of British Insurers (ABI) warns of several types of insurance scams, including automated and personed calls informing that insurance rates are rising and requesting payment, and ghost brokers selling fake COVID-19 insurance.

If your loved one receives a call from someone who claims to be from an insurance company, they should

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request the caller’s extension number, and politely let the caller know they’ll be in touch once they’ve had time to discuss with a trusted family member.

Test and Trace Scams Scammers have been contacting UK residents in the guise of NHS Test and Trace. The scammers claim that the receiver has been in contact with a known COVID-19 case and that immediate testing is required. In some cases, the caller requests payment for the test, typically around £500. Other times, the caller asks for personal information, including location, number of people in the household, and so on. Remember, NHS Test and Trace agents will never ask for money or direct someone to a non-NHS website. In general, NHS agents will only ask for personal details in-person, at the time of a Coronavirus diagnostic test, or if you’re calling for a test result (to confirm identity). Scammers use technology to spoof phone numbers, so a fraudulent call may appear to come from a legitimate number. Inform your elderly loved one that if they’re unsure, they should hang up and call the NHS Test and Trace line at 0300 013 5000.

Door-to-Door Testing Scams Door-to-door scams are especially alarming - you can’t hang up on someone when they’re at the front door.

Doorstep scammers insist that they’re conducting at-home COVID-19 testing on behalf of the NHS or a GP. These scammers are often thieves who are assessing a victim’s living situation or trying to gain access to their home.

Discourage your elder from answering the door when a stranger is knocking. A simple wave, smile, and “no thank you” from a nearby window is usually enough to deter scammers. If your loved one mistakenly opens the door, they should always behave as though they’re not alone. Insist that they tell the probable scammer that they’re on the phone and ask if they can drop by tomorrow instead. In the meantime, your loved one should contact a trusted friend or family member, alert neighbours, and contact the police to file a report.

By C h ri st i n a U pp e n k a mp - Hom e I n st e a d S e n ior Ca r e

General Tips for Protecting Your Loved Ones Keep up-to-date on current scams. You’ll be better prepared to deal with scammers (and help your loved ones deal with scammers) if you know what to expect.

Get in touch with your loved one every time you hear about a new scam.

Means of Contact Online Internet users should be wary of unusual emails, even those that seem to be coming from a known source.

People who use social media need to practice caution, as well - especially when clicking links to leave the platform. Show your elderly loved one how to check the source - the part that comes after http:// or www. in a URL. If they don’t recognise it, it’s best not to click. Remember that social media ads are simply sponsored spaces. These spaces are monitored for authenticity - but not always adequately.

Remind elders to be critical of anything they see online.

By Phone Advise your loved one to ignore any text messages that aren’t from a trusted friend or relative. Sometimes, scammers send messages to tons of numbers at once just to see which numbers are active.

If your loved one receives a call, whether it’s from a familiar or unfamiliar number, they should approach cautiously. Remember, scammers have the technology to borrow any phone number. If something seems off, encourage your loved one to insist on calling the person back on a number they know is legitimate.

Insist they discuss with you or another trusted friend or family member in the meantime.

Remind your elder that if they’re wary, they needn’t disclose personal information. It’s better to be safe than sorry.

Make a list for your loved one of terms that often signal scams - pension liberation, cryptocurrency, high-yield investment, and so on. Encourage them to resist engaging with anyone who asks for payment by prepaid credit or gift cards.

Remind loved ones that even the greatest, limitedtime-only deal, isn’t limited to a 30-minute window.

There’s always time to hang up, call a trusted friend or family member, and call back. Install antivirus software on your loved one’s computer.

If your loved one agrees, ask if you can have access to monitor their incoming emails.

And finally, even elders, with decades of experience, sometimes forget that few things in life are free.

Remind them that if something seems too good to be true, it probably is.

At Home Instead Senior Care Dartford, our Caregivers are trained to look out for any suspicious activity when supporting their clients, and to report any concerns to the client and/or their family. If you are looking for care for a loved one, be it home help, companionship, overnight care, dementia, or respite care, please call 01322 584438 to find out how we can help you.

In-Person With social distancing guidelines in place, there’s no reason to answer the door to a stranger. Remind your elderly loved one that times have changed, and things are different than they were 30 or 40 years ago when they’d invite a salesperson into their home without a second thought.

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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 ?

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L I F T THE P R ESS U R E O F SE P TE M B E R S P END I NG

LIFT THE PRESSURE OF SEPTEMBER SPENDING

As well as the beginning of a new school year, September also marks 100 days until Christmas Day on the 16th. We know that both of these events can bring additional pressure when you’re living on a tight budget.

Here are a few tips to help you save a little and spend less this month.

Reuse school uniforms if you can Due to the lockdown, your kids’ school uniforms may have had less wear than they normally would this year. If they’re in good condition and still fit, this could be a welcome money saver. Check before you buy new.

Swap and save with other families If your kids have outgrown their uniform or shoes, how about organising a school uniform swap with other families in your area?

There are loads of Facebook groups set up to do exactly this so check if there’s one in your area. If not, you could set one up yourself. You can bet there will be a lot of grateful parents.

Find out if you qualify for help with uniform costs If you really do need to buy new uniform items and PE kit, make sure you check what help is available in your local area via the council. Visit gov.uk/help-school-clothing-costs to check if you’re eligible.

Remember that you don’t need to

buy everything all at once. Take the pressure off yourself and make a plan based on what you urgently need and what could wait a little while until you have more cash saved up.

Label it to keep it safe Get yourself a laundry marker from the supermarket or online and label each item of uniform. This way, it will find its way back to you if it gets lost, and you won’t have to spend money on replacements.

Plan and save for Christmas Once the school uniforms are sorted, it only seems two minutes before we start turning our attention towards Christmas.

Thankfully, there’s still plenty of time to plan ahead and start saving towards the costs.

Think about what’s most important to you and prioritise your spending.

Is it having a nice family meal and get-together? Or is it making sure that each person has a gift to open? Maybe it’s a combination of things. Either way, plan your budget carefully in advance so that you know what you can and can’t afford, and how much you need to save up.

Try saving just £1 per day – that’s £100 saved by Christmas Day. How many turkeys, spuds and sprouts could you buy with that?

Make a list to avoid impulse buys To help you stick to your budget, it’s a good idea to make a list of what you need to buy and tick things off as you get each item. Then have a look at what offers are available in the shops. Maybe you could have a box, storage cupboard or space in the freezer to set aside and save any tinned, packet or frozen foods that are on special offer. Why not do the same with presents? Just remember where you hide them!

Spend time, not money Let’s not forget that Christmas doesn’t have to mean splashing out. What do you remember most about Christmases when you were a child? Is it the presents or the memories? We can find a lot of joy in spending time with loved ones without having to spend money.

Keep an eye out for events that your local church is planning for December – a carol service could be the ideal opportunity to spend time together as a family.

Christians Against Poverty (CAP) is a UK charity with services across the country delivering debt counselling, money management, job clubs, life skills groups, and support for people breaking habitual dependencies.

Many of our services are currently taking place online or over the phone. Visit capuk.org to find out more.

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L I F E U NDE R THE STA I R S

LIFE UNDER THE STAIRS

BY LOCAL RESIDENT, JANE STEVENSON FROM BOOKWORM MAGGOT TO ADULTHOOD My mum signed me up for Dartford Library membership when I was a few months old… apparently. What is fact is that both parents read stories to me and encouraged me to read from a very early age. Since then I’ve read voraciously most of my life. I’ve always had a bed books, a bath book and a bag book. I still scour charity and second-hand booksellers for something to pique my interest.

However, after tripping over the third pile of books left on the stairs, for shelving, I thought I really should make the effort to kick start my own reading, which has lessened over the past few months. Either that, or risk breaking an ankle.

Armed with determination and a ‘keep things tidy’ ethic not usually present, I lugged said weighty tomes up stairs only to discover I didn’t have any room left on the shelves.

It was apparent I only had one course of action; to go through my books and trash, treasure or donate. Such a job would only take a couple of minutes to do or so I thought.

An hour later I had the three piles, one almost as tall as me. The ‘trash and donate’ piles were sadly underrepresented with only a paltry three sitting there.

What I did have was a host of unread biographies, many detective novels, a few scripts and factual texts on my interests. I found a few jigsaw puzzles as well, which was a bonus. Mind you, I did wonder just how many books on tree lore a person needs.

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I ploughed on, and eventually felt I’d reached my goal. I’d said goodbye to a couple of housekeeping manuals (unread), a cookbook, some novels abandoned as too boring and also my guilty pleasure ‘The Meg’ about a giant man-eating shark! The shelves are still full, but I have a reading plan in place at long last. I’m going to make a bigger effort to read more and have set myself a goal of thirty minutes a day to start.

By the way, those discarded books are available to anyone who uses the local charity shops in Dartford. Enjoy reading about the trees!

CLUB TROPICANA One of the local history sites has been posting some wonderful comments and pictures of the outdoor swimming pools which used to be in the area.

Recent pictures of the old Burnham Road swimming pool, and the two pools at Martens Grove certainly brought some memories back. I’ve swum at both venues, as well as the Charlton Lido some years ago. Even the paddling pool in Dartford Park would be so welcome now.

With summers set to be hotter than ever, it would be wonderful to spend the day lounging round the pool, dipping in to cool off.

A new approach to outdoor pools is needed – not a return to the industrial type complexes they were. I wonder if there are any enterprising young business folk who might consider such a venture. By making them more versatile as a leisure facility could be a start. Dartford deserves more than further housing and shops. Why not an ice rink too. It would be packed in this weather.

JINGLE BELL ROCK Can I mention the C word?

Perhaps it’s thinking about those of cold crisp mornings and clear frosty nights as a panacea as we sit in this sweltering heat, but I have been doing some Christmas shopping. I love Christmas and choose to go overboard every year. I do wonder if this year will be any different. There are too many variables; will we be isolating again, will travel be banned, can relatives stay over? I sincerely hope not.

For now, I’m making lists, checking online suppliers and writing out Christmas card lists. I’ve got a couple of gifts in storage waiting for their adornment of glittery paper, shiny bows and oodles of tissue paper. From today there are only 134 days until December 25th. Just saying.

Wishing all Dartford Living readers well. See you next month

L I F E U NDE R THE STA I R S

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RESCUE IS BEST R ES C U E I S B EST

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

Name: Lottie; Breed: Mongrel; Sex: Female; Age: 8 years 12 months; Centre: Brands Hatch; Reference: 385656 Lottie is a really loving girl who found herself at Battersea due to no fault of her own. She’s an affectionate girl with lots of energy despite her age! Lottie is a ball crazy and loves nothing more than playing with people and her toys. Lottie hasn’t had much socialisation with other dogs in the past, so doesn’t always act appropriately when she is around them so will need some training around this. Lottie’s new owners will ideally be able to build up her confidence and maintain her dog socialising skills.

Battersea has introduced a new rehoming process to take into account social distancing rules. As a result, the charity is prioritising existing rehoming applications and those who have a home set up that enables safe and social distancing delivery.

For more information, please visit www.battersea.org.uk

Name: Harry; Breed: Domestic Short-hair; Sex: Male; Age: 5 years 11 months; Centre: Brands Hatch; Reference: 309320 Harry is our handsome boy who is as mellow in his personality as he is in appearance. Harry likes to meet and greet new people with a gentle meow and quick sniff, before leaning in for generous chin rubs, triggering his tantalising purr. Although quite a home body, Harry does enjoy having some outside space to stretch his legs, so would appreciate a garden in his new home.

Battersea has introduced a new rehoming process to take into account social distancing rules. As a result, the charity is prioritising existing rehoming applications and those who have a home set up that enables safe and social distancing delivery.

For more information, please visit www.battersea.org.uk

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R ES C U E I S B EST

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o n l i n e THEAT R E Rou n d up

ONLINE THEATRE ROUNDUP

By Liz Dyer

After several months without any theatre, hope is on the horizon, as the government recently announced indoor performances can resume with social distancing. Outdoor performances have already got back underway, and some indoor spaces are cautiously making plans to reopen with all the necessary restrictions in place.

Unfortunately, though, a lot of theatres around the country have announced the cancellation of more performances, including this year’s pantomimes.

Unfortunately, just as we go to press it’s been announced that the Orchard Theatre panto is cancelled Keeping up to speed with what’s going on in the world of theatre isn’t always easy -

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especially with the government changing their plans from one day to the next. So here are a few of the best people and publications to follow for theatre news and reviews: WhatsOnStage.com: the leading theatre website in the UK, WhatsOnStage is an invaluable source of updates from the world of theatre. Be the first to know all the headlines as they happen, and hear about priority sales and ticket offers, by signing up to their email newsletter.

Follow them on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram: @WhatsOnStage

Paddock (@TerriPaddock) and Mark Shenton (@shentonstage), My Theatre Mates is a digital hub for independent voices writing about theatre, in the UK and beyond. This makes it a great place not only to get your theatre news updates, but also to find reviews and other content from the many theatre reviewers and bloggers out there, several of whom have continued to publish new articles throughout lockdown.

Follow them on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @MyTheatreMates

And of course, for Dartford theatre news, you should keep an eye on the Orchard website at orchardtheatre. co.uk, and follow them on social media @orchardtheatre. You can also follow local group DAODS on their website at daods.co.uk and @ DAODSofficial, the Miskin Theatre at miskintheatre.co.uk and @ MiskinTheatre, and the Mick Jagger Centre at themickjaggercentre.com, @themickjaggercentre (Facebook and Instagram) or @mickjaggercentr MyTheatreMates.com: Founded by Terri (Twitter).

TheStage.co.uk: a weekly newspaper and website bringing you all the news, reviews and opinion from some of the most respected voices in the entertainment industry, particularly theatre. The Stage does operate a paywall though, and you can only access 2 articles for free each month before subscribing for £3.98 monthly. Follow them on Twitter and Facebook @TheStage and Instagram at @thestageuk

o n l i n e THEAT R E Rou n d up

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Rock Painting in Dartford.

DARTFORD PAINTED ROCKS 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.

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

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CA R NEWS

CAR NEWS SEPTEMBER 2020

By Dhiren Ganesh

In this month’s article we look at new versions which are all have hybrid versions, which is becoming standard within the industry for new cars.

2021 Renault Megane – the updated Renault Megane family hatchback gets plug-in hybrid power for the first time and upgrades. There will now be a plug-in hybrid version of both the hatchback and estate models. Named Megane E-Tech, it uses a 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol engine that works in conjunction with two electric motors to produce a combined 158bhp. It will be able to manage 30 miles on electric alone. The current 1.3-litre petrol and 1.5-litre diesel engines are still available. A new 10in digital instrument cluster replaces the previous analogue dials and you can put the most useful information, including the sat-nav map, directly in front of your eyes.

The standard equipment will include front and rear parking sensors, LED headlights, a rear parking camera and lane-departure warning. Prices start from £20,740, with the

new plug-in hybrid variant starting from £30,685 virtual distance of 10 metres ahead. Availbale from early 2021 prices are estimated to be – all available from later in 2020. from £80,000.

2021 Mercedes S-Class – this is the new S-Class is said to be considerably lighter than the outgoing car, thanks partly to the body being almost 60% aluminium, improving fuel economy and emissions. Its rear-wheel steering will have increased steering angle to reduce its turning circle. The engine line-up includes turbocharged 3.0-litre straight-six and twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8 petrols, both of which feature mild hybrid electrical assistance. UK buyers will probably be more interested in the 2.9-litre six-cylinder diesel and the sole plug-in hybrid – this will have an electric only range of 62 miles, almost double that of some of its rivals. The exterior design of the new S-Class will be an evolution of the current car’s, with a bolder front grille and horizontal tail-lights, which extend into the bootlid. On this inside technologies will make use of a mix of fingerprint, face and voice recognition and a new augmented-reality head-up display, which projects information into the driver’s eyeline at a

2020 Kia Stonic small SUV – Kia’s smallest SUV gains mild-hybrid technology, new driver assistance features and improved connectivity.

The current Stonic will receive the introduction of a new mild hybrid version and economyboosting revisions to the two existing petrol engines. The new EcoDynamics+ mild hybrid petrol engine is offered in two power outputs: 99bhp and 118bhp. The Stonic’s existing 1.0 and 1.2-litre petrol engines remain on offer, but both have been revised to improve efficiency.

On the inside there is a larger 8.0in touchscreen to replace the 7.0in and Apple CarPlay & Android Auto available for smart phone connectivity.

Kia’s latest advanced driver assistance systems have also been added, including automatic emergency braking that recognising cyclists too, a blind spot monitoring system and a rearward collision avoidance system to prevent collisions. On sale in the Autumn of 2020 prices are expected to start from £18,000.

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WHERE TO GO LOCALLY PARENT AND TODDLER GROUPS - TERM TIME ONLY WHE R E TO G O LO CALLY

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 9:30-10:30am at Fleetdown Utd FC (near Dunelm). £5 per session if you sign up for the term, siblings go free.Contact 07770860450 or Facebook.com/musicandrhymetime 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 10:30-11:30am, at Fleetdown Utd FC (near Dunelm). £5 per session if you sign up for the term, siblings go free.Contact 07770860450 or Facebook.com/musicandrhymetime 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 10:30am - 11am 2:15pm – 2:45pm Friday Thursday 10:30pm -11:00am Story Time Fleetdown - Tuesday 10:30am -11am Greenhithe - Thursday 2.15pm – 2.45pm - Thursday 10:45am -11:15am Longfield Summerhouse - Tuesday 10:30am – 11am Sutton-at-Hone -Monday. 2pm – 2:30pm Temple Hill - Wednesday 10.30am -11am Dartford

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

Advertise in the magazine for as little as £40 for a month Contact: sales@dartfordliving.com

CHECK WITH THE PROVIDERS TO SEE IF THEY ARE STILL OPEN 48 DURING LOCKDOWN

SPORTING ROUNDUP S P O RT I NG RO U ND U P

Women’s football is at a crossroads after lockdown and needs investment but the sport can emerge strong despite the coronavirus No elite women’s football has been played in England since March.

The new Women’s Super League season begins 5-6 September.

Crowds, participation and commercial interest in women’s football all rose sharply after the 2019 World Cup in France, during which a peak of 11.7m watched the England Women’s team, but there are concerns the sport has not been visible this summer. Add to concern that fact that the majority of WSL clubs have published financial losses in their accounts for the 2018-19 season, and the Football Association (who run the WSL) announced they were planning for a potential financial loss of about £300m as a result of the pandemic; things then may seem bleak...

However, it may be that several private equity firms have expressed interest in buying a stake in the WSL, in addition to the interest from the men’s Premier League who are still in talks over a potential takeover of the WSL, so money and expertise could be injected. With the men’s game surely now reaching saturation from a sponsorship point of view, maybe sponsors and investors will consider better value in the women’s game?

Upcoming events in September include: 2: Athletics - Diamond League, Lausanne 4-6: Formula 1 - Italian Grand Prix, Monza 4-5: Athletics - British Championships, Manchester 4: Athletics - Diamond League, Brussels 5: Football - Nations League: Iceland v England 8: Football - Nations League: Denmark v England 11-13: Formula 1 - Toscana Grand Prix, Mugello 12: Football - 2020-2021 Premier League season to start 17-20: Golf - US Open, Winged Foot, New York 17: Athletics - Diamond League, Rome/Naples 25-27: Formula 1 - Russian Grand Prix, Sochi 25: Athletics - Diamond League, Doha 27 September-10 October: Tennis - French Open, Roland Garros

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WHERE TO GO LOCALLY -

FOR WHEN THINGS RETURN TO NORMAL c h e c k w i t h t h e provi d e r s to s e e if t h e y a r e st i l l op e n d uri n g loc k d o w n

CARE & SUPPORT

stroke survivors for stroke survivors. It provides 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 Theo.

Hodges@stroke.org.uk or 0743 7100 404, for more details

charity. If you are missing the contact with other business men since you retired, why not come and join us on the last Thursday of every month.

For more details contact Phil Burt on 01322 274541 or look at our website www.waprobus.com

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.

THE WELLBEING LINK The Wellbeing Link meets on Friday mornings from 10-1pm in the St. Anselm’s Parish Centre, 89 West Hill, Dartford A friendly and informative group - call Julie On 07775875585

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

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.

SOCIAL GROUPS

ALL DIRECTIONS is a community learning organisation for adults and young people aged 16+ with physical, learning and mental health difficulties. For more information, attend a taster session or visit our community lunch club, contact Caroline on 01322 440482 or 07570 347612

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

THE STROKE ASSOCIATION has 2 groups for stroke survivors with Communication difficulties; one in Dartford and one in Gravesend. Please contact Michele at Dartford@stroke. org.uk or on 01622 3251 962.

WILMINGTON AND AXSTANE PROBUS CLUB We are a group of retired men who meet monthly for a lunch and a speaker at the Swanley Bowls Centre.

We also have a monthly walk and occasional coffee mornings and as a side line we raise money for a local

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 AGE UK, CRAYFORD LIBRARY POP IN 20S 30S DARTFORD BEXLEYHEATH wherever you live and costs just 60p PARLOUR COFFEE MORNING every SURROUNDING AREAS SOCIAL GROUP to come along and join in. So why not Friday morning 10.30 - 12.30 Tea, more information visit: come and join our friendly welcoming Coffee, Biscuits and a chat - Just £1 www.meetup.com/20s-30s-Dartford- social club? For further information Bexleyheath-surrounding-areasplease call either John Letchford on BEXLEY AND DARTFORD BRANCH social-group/ 01322 270732 or Pam Carr on 01322 PARKINSONS UK 222195.

For people with Parkinsons and their DARTFORD U3A (UNIVERSITY OF JOYDENS WOOD WOMEN’S INSTITUTE carers.

THE THIRD AGE) meet on the third Tuesday of every Dartford: 2nd Wednesday of each meets on the first Tuesday of every month, with meetings beginning at month, Mick Jagger Centre, 7.30month (except August) at St Anselm’s 7.45pm. We meet at the Community 9.30pm. Information support workers Church Hall, West Hill, Dartford at Centre, Birchwood Drive, Wilmington, available, guest speakers and quizzes. 2pm, For information about meetings DA2 7NE. More information can be Contact Wendy Leach. Tel: and interest groups call 01474-709068 found at joydenswoodresidents.co.uk 02083065973 or visit our website. (under Local Clubs and Societies).

Also, there is a social group, run by

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

50 CHECK WITH THE PROVIDERS TO SEE IF THEY ARE STILL OPEN DURING LOCKDOWN

including adult fiction, young adult/ opportunities that Round Table does. teen, children’s, non-fiction, writing for stage and screen and poetry. See Check out the locally famous club h e c k w i t h t h e provi d e r s to s e e if t h e y a r e st i l l op e n d uri n g loc k d o w n us oncFacebook “Bluewater Writers’ www.dartfordroundtable.co.uk Group” Facebook search: For further info email Tony at: * Dartford Round Table tonyjan@talktalk.net * Round Table * Dartford Egg Hunt CRAYFORD AND DISTRICT PROBUS You will receive a very warm CLUB welcome. meet on 1st and 3rd Wednesdays at the Falcon Wood Club, 1 Falcon Wood THE ROTARY CLUB OF DARTFORD Avenue, Welling at 10am. Contact We meet at lunchtime at The Royal Tony Maun 0208 306 1075 or Victoria and Bull Hotel on 1st, 2nd email Crayford.Probus@gmail.com. and 3rd Tuesdays. Time 12.45 for 1 pm FAIRFIELD (DARTFORD) WI A warm welcome awaits you on the 2nd Tuesday of For further details phone: 07706 every month at Dartford Girls Grammar 103706 School, Shepherds Lane, DA1 2NT at 7.30pm. For more information please THE RENDEZVOUS CLUB (50+) contact Judith on 01322 278703 or Every Monday Time: 8pm - 10pm email FairfieldDartford@wkfwi.org.uk Location: Close to Bexleyheath Town Centre CRAYFORD WOMEN’S INSTITUTE 1st Description: We are a (non-profit Thursday of every month at 1.30pm. making) friendly social group open to Baker Trust Hall. Maxim Road, anyone over fifty.

Crayford (near Sainsburys). Contact We enjoy socialising, making new Secretary, Linda Lewis 01322 557229 friends and activities including Quizzes, Meals Out, Trips to the DARTFORD LADIES PROBUS CLUB Theatre, Cinema, Coach Trips, Gentle A group of retired ladies meet locally Walks and Short Breaks Away. for lunch on the 4th Wednesday of Admission: Subs £2.50 per week. each month,. They raise funds for Annual membership £6 charity and usually invite a speaker. If you would like to join us or Join them and enjoy meeting and require further information please making new friends. If you would like telephone: more information please contact Iris Tel: 01322 287356 or 020 8304 6414 (Secretary) on 01474 703448 TALK TIME MALE? AGED 18 - 45?

TUESDAY 2.00 - 3.00PM (TERM TIME Round Table is for the guys ONLY) with Ladies Circle for the Ladies Fleetdown Library (ladiescircle.co.uk) Everybody welcome, join us for a Dartford RT meets every 2nd and 4th friendly chat Thursday. and light refreshments.

Often called the original young man’s social club, Round Table has over 400 clubs in the UK and is in 50+ countries worldwide. We have an emphasis on having a lot of FUN. We guarantee that involvement with Round Table will enhance your social life, your personal abilities, your network and best of all it is not expensive.

For your chance to become involved in something very special, you need to experience it because no other organisation offers you the

HAVEN (LGBT) SOCIAL GROUP. London / Kent area. Every Friday - a safe Place to Meet.

For more information please contact 01322 287356 or 07503 306467 or email - havenx35@gmail.com WILMINGTON WOMEN’S INSTITUTE is a friendly group who meet on the 2nd Wednesday of every month at 7.30pm in 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

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WHERE TO GO LOCALLY -

FOR WHEN THINGS RETURN TO NORMAL c h e c k w i t h t h e provi d e r s to s e e if t h e y a r e st i l l op e n d uri n g loc k d o w n

CLUBS AND SOCIETIES TONI MOUNT HISTORY CLASSES The group meet every week at Towncentric in Gravesend and this year we are looking at Everyday Life in Medieval London. We meet every Thursday from 10.30-12.30 at £6.00 per week customers can phone me on 01474 355676 for more information or look at my website www.tonimount. co.uk DSTC ALUMNI Hi all, if you went to DSTC, DTC, Dartford West Girls or any other name that the school has been known as we would love to hear from you! The school is looking to make links with former students to help raise the profile of the school but also as a way of getting back in touch with people.

There will be an event later on in the academic year and we are planning some exciting things for the group so get joining and let’s get reminiscing!! www.facebook.com/groups/ DSTCAlumni

SCRAPPY DAYS! A SCRAPBOOKING GROUP is being held at Hawley Pavilion, Hawley Road, Dartford, DA2 7RB on the 2nd Sunday of the month between 2pm and 6:30pm. It costs £6 which includes refreshments, nibbles and the use of a cricut (cutting machine for those that don’t know). Beginners are very welcome. Contact Michelle on 07910 488428 or email scrappydays@ hotmail.co.uk

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 levels to play Duplicate Bridge -cost £2 per session.

Enquiries: contact John Davies on 01474 832221 or e-mail carolandjohnd@tiscali.co.uk

PAVILION PLAYERS Is an amateur dramatics group based at the Joydens Wood Community Centre, Wilmington, Kent. We meet every Tuesday from 8-10pm. For more information please visit www. facebook.com/pavilionplayers or call us on 07505 006539. Alternatively just pop down on a Tuesday night!

Everyone welcome!

DARTFORD FLORAL CLUB The club meet on the 3rd Friday of the month at Hawley Pavilion, Hawley Rd.(opp Papermakers Arms) at 7.30 Come along for an evening of beautiful flowers, fun and friendship. Entrance £6.00, refreshments and a raffle with the chance to take home a beautiful floral arrangement. Contact Carol 01322 220802

DARTFORD BELLRINGERS Holy Trinity Church, High Street, Wednesdays 8.00-9.30p.m. Free tuition with a very friendly, sociable group.

The ideal way to make new friends.

Contact deryck.w.jones@gmail.com, phone 01322 586937

DARTFORD BOOKS AND CULTURE CLUB meets once a month on Saturday mornings at Dartford Library. For more information, find us at www.meetup. com/West-Kent-Book-Club/

NORTH WEST KENT FAMILY HISTORY SOCIETY THE MANOR HALL VARIETY GROUP The Dartford Branch meet the 1st We meet every Tuesday at 8.00 in Saturday of each month from 10amthe Community hall (opp St Paulinus 12:30pm at the Dartford Science and church) Crayford. We are looking for anyone who could help us with sound, Technology College, Heath Lane, For lights, scenery or singing/acting on the more information see www.nwkfhs. org.uk or ring Janet 01322384836 stage - everyone welcome. Email me (Carolyn) for more details at ERITH MODEL RAILWAY SOCIETY has c_sawyers@hotmail.com. been in existence for over 50 years and has well over 50 active members.

CRAYFORD TOWN ARCHIVE As the club continues to grow new incorporating Barnehurst and Slade members are always welcome.

Green. Meet every Monday (except the third Monday) of the month at The club meets on Wednesday Crayford Library hall - 2pm-4pm. Call evenings from around 7.00pm until in for a chat about old Crayford and around 9.30pm at our new clubrooms to view the large collection of local in Invicta House (aka Belvedere images, or bring your own for us to Workingmen’s Club), 66 Gilbert Road, copy.

Belvedere DA17 5DA.

THE DARTFORD CHESS CLUB The club meets every Thursday evening from 7.30pm at St Anselms Parish Hall, West Hill and was founded 100 years ago in 1914. All queries to Mike Wiltshire at 01322 272152 or visit www.dartfordchessclub.co.uk COLUMBINE CHINA PAINTERS CLUB This small friendly club meets each month on the 1st and 3rd Thursday afternoon in Sutton-at-Hone Village Hall. From 1.30pm to 4.30pm. Price is £3.00 to include Tea & biscuits.

Occasionally we meet on a Saturday when we have a tutor with us, from 10am until 4pm Contact - Maureen Beckham 01322 287214. Marie Blake 01474 704581.

Doreen Goddard 01474 707357.

52 WITH THE PROVIDERS TO SEE IF THEY ARE STILL OPEN DURING LOCKDOWN CHECK

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

If so, email your suggestions to editor@dartfordliving.com c h e c k w i t h t h e provi d e r s to s e e if t h e y a r e st i l l op e n d uri n g loc k d o w n

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 Angela Hurd Telephone: 01322 407556 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.

new topics, new skills and new ways for girls to broaden their horizons.

NORTH KENT EMBROIDERERS’ GROUP Meets on the third Saturday of every month (except August) from 2pm - 4pm in the The Community Room, Asda Gravesend Superstore, Thames Way, Gravesend DA11 0DQ. 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.

www.girlguiding.org.uk/interested

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

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

If you would like to find out more please register your interest

DARTFORD HISTORICAL AND ANTIQUARIAN SOCIETY www.historicaldartford.org.uk OUR TALKS IN 2020 CONTINUE WITH THE FOLLOWING: THE LOCKDOWN FOR COVID-19 CANCELLED THE REMAINDER OF THE 2019-2020 PROGRAMME. WE ARE HOPING TO RESTART WITH THE 2020-2021 IN OCTOBER. WE LOOK FORWARD TO WELCOMING YOU THEN.

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.

We meet every third Thursday of each month, between 19:30 & 21:30 at the following local hall: Pheonix Place Community Hall Pheonix Place, Dartford, DA1 2XG If you have any questions, please contact our Club Secretary Tony Pringle who will be only too happy to help.

Please use the following options: Email: tp.1971@outlook.com 07738 698284

Tel:

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

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WHERE TO GO LOCALLY -

FOR WHEN THINGS RETURN TO NORMAL

c h e c k w i t h t h e provi d e r s to s e e if t h e y a r e st i l l op e n d uri n g loc k d o w n

HAWLEY AND SUTTON AT HONE Swanscombe Leisure Centre.

ACTIVE RETIREMENT ASSOCIATION Call Saj on 07903 513104 (HASARA) We meet on the 2nd Thursday in the scout hut Sutton at Hone at 2pm.

Other social activities include pub lunches, art and craft, short mat bowls, petanque, walks, coach outings, etc.

We are a friendly and young at heart club. Do join us. Ring Jim on 01322 221736 or Carol on 07912564710 or just turn up.

ORCHARDS JUNIOR SCALE MODEL CLUB. We welcome everyone from age 8 and upwards. We meet on a Tuesday evening from 6pm onwards in The Meeting Place in the Orchards Shopping Centre.

We deal with all sorts of scale models from Airfix and similar, Warhammer, model railways etc. We charge £1 per week per person and any under 16’s need to be accompanied by an adult.

We have a small number of kits available to purchase at a reasonable rate. https://www.facebook.com/OrchardsJuniorScaleModelClub/

SPORTS GROUPS AND CLUBS WHEELCHAIR EPEE FENCING Wheelchair epee fencing in Dartford and Gravesham, we are delighted to announce that New Ash Green Epee club, can now introduce wheelchair fencing. If interested in taking up this para sport please contact us on 01474 871484 or alternatively look at our website www.nagfencing.eu ERITH YOUTH RUGBY Sunday 10:45-12:00, Sussex Road Erith. Ages 4-16 welcome 07903 590515 LITTLE TIGERS - KARATE FOR 3, 4 & 5 YEAR OLDS Sundays 54 10:15-10:45 at

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

DARTFORD GYMNASTICS Coach Martin - 07944 730634. is the only British Gymnastics Club All ages from 7 years to adult welcome in Dartford to hold the”GymMark” Award for 6 years.

ENERGY FITNESS AND NUTRITION Based in Heath Lane, we are a I run group fitness classes as friendly club well as 1-1 and semi private with super equipment, great personal training sessions in coaches and high standards. We do lots of competitions and we do Darenth at Dimples Day Nursery DA2 7HT. ENERGY Fitness & not close through the holidays!

Nutrition: we offer a wide variety Visit our website www.dartof group classes such as strength fordgymnastics.co.uk for full & conditioning, boot camps, details or contact Linda on 01322 Boxercise, mum and baby classes, 409312 or email dartfordgyminside and outside classes with club@yahoo.co.uk great equipment and suitable for all abilities.

LEARN KARATE The website is Learn karate with Yamato www.energyfitnut.co.uk Damashii – for adults & children Every Wednesday evening at the HARTLEY SWIMCLUB AT WHITE Leigh Academy & every Saturday OAK POOL, SWANLEY morning at Becket Sport Centre, We are a friendly group of adults first lesson free. who meet for a social swim every For more info, visit www.ydma.

Thursday at 9pm. We’re looking club or find us on Facebook, for new members. Why not give search for Yamato Damashii us a try?

Martial Arts.

Contact Diane on 01689 871846 or join us one Thursday.

Yoga with Emma “YOGA WITH EMMA DARTFORD JU JITSU CLUB Europa Gymnastics Centre: Mondays 7-8pm for 7-16s at - Wednesdays: Hatha Yoga – the Dartford Girls Grammar, 9.30am to 10.30am Shepherds Lane Dartford DA1 2NT - Fridays: Hatha Yoga – 9.30am to in the Dance Studio.

10.30am We have an adult class 8-10pm too.

- Fridays: Yin Yoga – 10.45am to 11.45am We’ve been running for 20 years, building confidence, teaching Becket Sports Centre: self-defence, hardening the target, - Fridays: Hatha Yoga – 7.00pm to developing skills and always 8.00pm welcome new members.

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

DARTFORD ORIENTEERING CLUB For more details see www.dfok. co.uk HOP LIKE IT’S HOT A fun (different) circuit based

workout with space hoppers that Seeds is a long-established cycling challenges core stabilty, balance and Club in Dartford and we share strength. It is suitable for all levels our headquarters at Hesketh with and abilities. are c h e c k w i tClasses h t h e provi d e rheld s to s eevery e if t h e y a rDartford e st i l l op e nCricket d uri n g Club. loc k d oWe w ncater for Wednesday evening at the stone most abilities and have a social ride pavilion starting at 8:15 until 9:00 most Saturday mornings. For info on costing £5 per person. joining us please visit our website www.seedscycling.co.uk THE HIGHLY STRUNG BADMINTON CLUB, DARTFORD AND WHITE OAK Friendly club seeking new members. TRIATHLON CLUB Abilities mixed.

We are the local British Triathlon Would suit players with some prior Federation Club covering Bexley, experience.

Dartford and Swanley. We offer coached swimming sessions 3 Thursdays at 7.45-9.45pm, Dartford times per week at White oak pool Girls’ Grammar School, DA1 2NT in Swanley and Fairfield pool in For further information please email: Dartford. Our members compete in many local Triathlons plus many highlystrungbc@gmail.com members are training towards Iron Man distance. We also have our own Triathlon in June every year which has been running since 1989. If you are interested in joining us then WAR GAMES AND MODEL CLUB please visit our website Based in Erith we have a wide number of members from across SE http://www.dartfordandwhiteoaktri. co.uk London and Kent. A great place to come and have a game, make, paint and hobby! Or, if you prefer, come DARTFORD ROAD RUNNERS grab a cup of tea and chat about all Dartford Road Runners are based things hobby and some things not! at Princes Park Stadium and are For more info visit - https://emperone of the biggest road running ors10th.wixsite.com/home clubs in Kent. We currently have about 200 members of all abilities including a beginners group. DRR DARTFORD PARKRUN Dartford parkrun is a free to enter 5k teams compete in the Kent League, run every Saturday morning starting the Assembly League and the Kent Fitness League. To see what we offer by the Dartford harriers track in Central Park at 9am. All participants and how to join us please visit our website – anyone is welcome to join get a time a position emailed and us with all abilities. texted after the event. To register http://dartfordroadrunners.co.uk/ go to node/440 www.parkrun.org.uk. Remember to bring your printed Barcode.

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

Dartford Harriers is among the leading athletics clubs in Kent, with a history stretching back to the 1920′s, DARTFORD HEATH PARKRUN making it one of the oldest clubs in Dartford’s 2nd parkrun event is now the country. If you are interested in live. The run starts behind the Heath seeing how we can help you advance Lane car park and is a free 5k run your Athletics then please visit our every Saturday morning at 9am. website Parking is restricted in the area so http://www.dartfordharriersac.co.uk please do not park in Heathclose Road and wherever possible please CENTRAL PARK ATHLETICS CLUB walk.

We are situated in Dartford’s outstanding Central Park and can FOOTSCRAY MEADOW PARKRUN provide access to a state of the A new Parkrun event with parking at art running track (re-laid in 2015) Crazy Barn and the full range of track and field facilities for just £4.50 per session (we offer discounted annual SEEDS CYCLING CLUB DARTFORD memberships). Refreshments and

changing facilities are also available.

For no extra charge, we hold coached track sessions on Wednesday evenings for runners of all abilities.

This is a tough but very popular way to increase your stamina and running technique, and you’ll be in the company of qualified coaches and some of the friendliest runners around. For more information please visit our website centralparkathletics.co.uk Every Sunday 10-11am – Child friendly coached sessions – Come and join the CPA Swifts – As a fledgling club we would like to give children of all ages and abilities the chance to experience training and coaching within a club environment – come and be part of the team Free first session with this advert SO LET’S GO RUNNING (SLGR) SLGR is a local running club with structured training sessions designed to improve runners speed and stamina.

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

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

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

THE ASHES BADMINTON CLUB Mondays, Dartford Technology College, Heath Lane. 8-9.30. Jacqui 07764 182854.

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ADVERTISERS INDEX DIRECTORY OF LOCAL BUSINESSES ADVERTISING IN DARTFORD LIVING

ACCOUNTANTS, FINANCE & LEGAL Downton Ali Associates.........................................60 Martin Ives & Co.......................................................9 Urban Sticks...........................................................13 BUILDERS, DECORATORS, ROOFING, BATHROOMS, HEATING, KITCHENS, WINDOWS & DOORS A Baynes.................................................................38 Claremont Decorative Services.............................36 Steve Cook - Double Glazing..................................22 The Double Glazing Repair Man..............................4 CAR CARE ChipsAway..............................................................10 CHILDREN Bip Bop Shop.........................................................26 CLEANING APC Cleaning.........................................................10 Streamline Pressure Washing...............................22 COUNCIL Dartford Borough Council ......................................5 ESTATE/ LETTING AGENTS Alexander, Charles and Brown..............................46 Fox Estates ............................................................11 Wisdom Estates......................................................23 FARM SHOP H&M Foods.............................................................38 56

FLORIST Dartford Florist......................................................19 FOOD AND DRINK Kemsing Gin..........................................................33 GARAGES & VEHICLE SERVICES Orchard Garage......................................................60 Shenley Road Garage............................................26 GARDENING Bow Arrow Gardening............................................38 HEALTH Home Instead...........................................................4 Release and Liberate.............................................12 JEWELLERY Bradleys..................................................................23 NURSERY Holy Trinity Church Pre School.............................46 MUSIC/DANCE & FITNESS Crest Yoga..............................................................35 On Pointe Pilates....................................................19 Simple Fitness........................................................14 OPTICIANS Linklater Opticians.................................................43 PHOTOGRAPHER Red Photography...................................................12

SIZE AND RATES

PICTURE FRAMING c h e c k w i t h t h e provi d e r s to s e e if t h e y a r e st i l l op e n d uri n g loc k d o w n Craft Frames............................................................38 PRINTERS Darenth Print..........................................................15 RESTAURANT/ TEA ROOMS/CAFE EFES.........................................................................7 The Churchyard......................................................43 SCHOOL/ COLLEGE Oakfield/ Temple Hill Nursery...............................12 The Leigh UTC........................................................18 WILL WRITING SMN Will Writing .................................................21 WEBSITE DESIGN/ MARKETING Dartford Living Design.............................................2 Dartford Living Marketing......................................21

THINKING OF ADVERTISING? We offer amazing value advertising with adverts starting from just £40 for a month. We don’t just take your money and add you to the magazine.

We want to work with you to promote your businesses as much as we can using our website and social media channels for maximum exposure. We can also provide advertising options solely online on your website and/ or social media channels. We feel we have every base covered.

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

Magazine/ Website Design and Sales

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USEFUL NUMBERS LOCAL AND NATIONAL

KEY NUMBERS Police 01622 690690 NON EMERGENCY ONLY Fire Safety Advice & FREE Home Fire Safety Check 0800 169 1125 Dartford Borough Council 01322 343434 Gas Leaks (24 hour) 0800 111 999 EDF Energy Networks Emergencies/ Powercuts Helpline 105 Flooding 03459881180 Highways Kent 03000 41 41 41 Social Services 03000 41 41 41 Water Burst 0800 820 999 (Southern) 0800 714614 (Thames) HEALTH Darent Valley Hospital 01322 428100 Dartford East Health Centre 01322 421480 Boots Chemist Bluewater 01322 624780 (Late Night) ASDA Greenhithe Chemist 01322 374100 (Late Night) The National Pandemic Flu Service 0800 1513 100 West Kent NHS helpline 0800 0 850850 TRAVEL Heathrow Airport Enquires 08700 000123 Gatwick Airport Enquires 08700 002468 National Rail Enquires 08456 484950 Highways England Info Line 0300 123 5000 HELPLINES 24 Hour Kent Dementia Helpline: 0800 500 3014

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Alcoholics Anonymous: 08457 697 555 Citizens Advice Bureau: 01322 472 979 Debt Councilling (CAP) 0800 328 0006 Information About Drugs - FRANK: 0800 776600 Kent Homophobic Incident Reporting Line: 0800 328 9162 Kent Racial Incident Reporting Line: 0800 138 1624 Local Breastfeeding Counsellors Judianne/Paula 01322 224072 National Domestic Violence Helpline (24 hour) 0808 2000 247 NSPCC Child Protection Helpline: 0808 800 5000 RSPCA Kent, North West Branch Helpline 01322 286720 Samaritans: 116 123 LOCAL MP Gareth Johnson 020 7219 7047 LOCAL SPORTS CLUBS Bexley Rugby Club 01322 550142 or www.pitchero.com/clubs/bexleyrfc/ Dartford Ladies Hockey Club Dawn Hall (Secretary) 07793 777250 Dartford Ju Jitsu Club Mondays, Dartford Girls Grammar School, Shepherds Lane. 6.30-8.00 Juniors, 8.00-10.00 Seniors www.

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

dartfordjujitsu.co.uk 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 ParkContact: 01322 299990 www.dartfordfc.com Dartford Valley RFC www.pitchero.com/clubs/ darenthvalleyrfc/ USEFUL FACEBOOK GROUPS Dartford Living Dartford Today and Tomorrow Dartford Remembered Dartford Gossip Dartford Living Community Group

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