Dartford Living November 2015

Dartford Living

www.dartfordliving.com November 2015 - Issue 113

Dartford Valley Rugby Club: Bringing the community together through Rugby Page 20 WHAT’S INSIDE...

Priory Centre Grant

Lollipop Appeal

Local Talent Heads to LA

Page 18

Page 36

Page 43

Plus - All your regular

features, puzzles, events, information and much, much more in your new 48 page issue.

DARTFORD BUSINESS CENTRE PROVIDING A FULL SERVICE TO DARTFORD SMALL BUSINESSES

“A Hand Holding Service” Established 35 years

COMPANY FORMATION Save tax by forming a private company from as little as £45 + registration fee + VAT. www.companyregistration.org ACCOMMODATION ADDRESS Have a virtual office accommodation address facility for as little as £40.00 per month. www.accommodation-address.com RENT AN OFFICE 24/7 Offices available to rent from as little as £38.00 per week with parking. www.accommodation-address.com

ACCOUNTANCY & TAX SERVICE Conradi Morrison & Co specialises in small clients and provides a top class personal service for a fixed low fee.

Phone for a free meeting to discuss your needs. www.dartfordaccountants.com PAYLINE Let us undertake your payroll and take the strain from you for as little as £18 per month + VAT. www.payline.org

Tel: 01322 278188

Haslemere, 4 Summerhill Rd, Dartford DA1 2LP Email: phc@conradimorrison.com

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Contents

Dear Readers,

A cold November hello from everyone at Dartford Living! We hope you enjoy this month’s expanded magazine, with more pages than ever before. As usual this month’s edition is jam packed with lots of local information and local businesses. Please support as many as you can - “use them or lose them!”

Don’t forget that we run Dartford Living alongside volunteer members of the local community FOR the local community. Dartford Living is YOUR magazine, the only independently run magazine serving the local area with information, fun, good news and positive local stories!

Feel free to 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!

We deliver to thousands of homes and businesses in the local area, however if you don’t always receive a copy directly through your door, you can pick up a copy from various drop off points. These include Dartford Football Club, numerous local libraries, The Prior Shopping Centre, Stephen Oliver Art Gallery, numerous health centres and local Barclays branches. The ‘Previous Editions’ section of the Dartford Living website (www.dartfordliving.com) also includes electronic versions of Dartford Living magazine. Additionally, if you email editor@dartfordliving.com we will add you to our newsletter email mailing list and contact you just once a month with an electronic copy of Dartford Living! Over 4,000 local people already this!

Until next time, Vijay - Editor Dartford Living (and Annie, Barbara, Bhavesh, Christine, David, Dawn, Derek, Dhiren, Elaine, Holly, Jane, Jenny, Joanne, John, Ken, Kelly, Mark, Nickki, Pat, Richey, Sheridan and the rest of the fantastic Dartford Living volunteer team)

check out our new website for even more local news and articles

6-13....................... .................... What’s on 14...................................... Useful numbers 15............................................Toy Appeal 2 18.............Priory Centre Community Grant 19..........................................Low Cost Vets 20.................................Dartford Valley RFC 21.........................Dartford Living meets...

28.................................Thoughts of a local 30.....................................Max Makerspace 32.............................................Pets Corner 33........................New - Business Directory 34............................................Local Events 36-37.....................................Charity Focus 38..............................................Auto News 39.........................Tips for a small business 40....................................................Sudoku 41........................................Gardening Tips 42..............................................Dartford FC 44..........................Local Talent heads to LA 45..........................................Competitions

YOUR NEXT DEADLINE IS 12TH NOVEMBER

Advertising

We offer amazing value advertising with adverts starting from just £26 per month. We also provide advertising options on our website and also social media channels for maximum exposure.

To book an advert call 01322 507817 or email sales@dartfordliving.com David Shafford Magazine/ Website design and Sales

Advertising from only

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£26 p/m

Dartford Living

3

AJ’S DOG SALON

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Please Pleasemention mentionDartford DartfordLiving Living when contacting contacting our our advertisers advertisers

Advertisers Index

Directory of Local Businesses advertising in Dartford Living

ACCOUNTANTS, FINANCE & LEGAL Conradi Morrison & Co .....................................................2 Dartford Legal .................................................................31 GF+Co......................................................23 Lynton & Co ........................................................................5 BUILDERS, DECORATORS ROOFING, KITCHENS & WINDOWS 4k Building Services.........................................................47 A Baines & Son Roofing.....................................................26 Claremont Decorative Services.. .................................46 John Hargreaves Building...................................................25 Michael Jones ...................................................................26 Steve Cook - Double Glazing............................................16 Trade2Trade Windows ............................................19 and 45 CLEANING SERVICES ASK..................................................................................24 COSMETIC, BEAUTY & HEALTH Amazincare....................................................................... 35 Dia Wipes.. ............................................................17 Jo’s Reflexology..................................................................19 Slimming World .................................................................48 EDUCATION Kip McGrath.. .........................................................27 Leaders are Readers...........................................................22 ENTERTAINMENT VENUE Orchard Theatre Groups................................................12 ELECTRICIANS AES Electricians...............................................................4 ESTATE AGENTS GPS Lettings....................................................................17 Wisdom Estates..............................................................33 FARM SHOP Stanhill Farm. .....................................................................24 FOSTER CARE FCA....................................................................35 GARAGES & VEHICLE SERVICES Shenley Road Garage..........................................................19 GARDENING SERVICES Hawley Garden Centre .......................................................31 HEATING AND PLUMBING JA Projects........................................................................29 JEWELLERY Bradleys............................................................................26 LOCKSMITHS/HOME SECURITY Dartford Locksmith.............................................................39 LEGAL SERVICES Dartford Legal .................................................................34 LOGISTICS FD TRANSPORT ...........................................................47

MUSIC/DANCE & FITNESS Dartford Bootcamps............................................................4 Monkey Music.. ..........................................................7 OPTICIANS Linklater Opticians.............................................................16 PET CARE AJ Dog Salon.....................................................................16 Easipetcare...............................................................25 Kingly’s Dog Grooming........................................................31 PICTURE FRAMING Craft Frames.. ...........................................................39 SPORTS Stone Lodge Bowls Club.....................................................43 Dartford FC........................................................................44 Dartford Valley Rugby Club..................................................44 STOVES AND FIREPLACES The Stove and Fireplace ....................................................19 VOLUNTEERING West Kent Befriending Service.......................................37

Interested inTel: advertising?

Tel: 01322 507817 www.dartfordliving.com Interested in advertising?

01322 507817 www.dartfordliving.com Dartford Living

55

Where to go locally...

...local events, clubs & groups

Parent & Toddler Groups (Term Time) Mondays 9:15am - 11:00am. St Anselms Church Community Centre, Dartford. Contact Julie on 01322 291092.

St Mary’s Greenhithe Church Hall, Messy Makers:10.15am-11.15am - an hour of messy play and creative activities for 2-5 year olds. at messymakers@gmail.com or call London Road, Greenhithe. £4.50 per child. For further information and to book, please emailus 07851 150593.

Tuesdays Catherine on 01322 220036.

Session 1: 9.15-10.45am, and Session 2: 11-12.30pm. Christchurch, Crossroad, Dartford. Contact and drinks. John 01322 272649.

Little Fishes: 12 - 2pm, Net Church,, (Formerly Gala Bingo Hall) Dartford, £3 per family including all snacks information. further for 288434 (01322) on us call Please Dartford.

Street, Hythe 9.30am -11.30am. The Salvation Army, 66 school children up to 4 years pre For children the for time snack healthy and ,biscuits tea Sticky Fingers, 9.30-11.30 am £1.50 per adult includes reenhithe.com www.stmaryg see or 382031 01322 St Mary Greenhithe Church Hall London Road Greenhithe Contact Wednesdays for further information.

9.30am -11.30am. The Salvation Army, 66 Hythe Street, Dartford. Please call us on (01322) 288434 term, £5 weekly dependent on 6-weekly 1pm-2pm - Fleetdown Community Centre, Swaledale Road, Dartford, DA2 6JZ t - £30 for Kent “Happi-Mess Facebook on us find or il.com kent@hotma availability, paid in advance - happi-messThursdays The Vineyard Centre, 24 Market St, Dartford. Contact Jane on 07956 430244 for further details.

9:30 - 11:30am. St Paulinus Church Hall, Manor Road, Crayford.

- facebook.com/ToeRags 9.30-11am Toerags Toddler Group - Adult education centre, Dartford £3 per Child - £1 Non Walkers - facebook.com/ToeRags 1-2.30pm Toerags Toddler Group - Adult education centre, Dartford £3 per Child - £1 Non Walkers Fridays 9.30-11am Baby and me for expectant mothers and mothers / carers of chidren up to 2. £1 per adult reenhithe.com St Mary Greenhithe Church Hall, London Road Greenhithe. Contact 01322 382031 or see www.stmaryg - facebook.com/ToeRags Walkers Non £1 Child per £3 Dartford centre, education Adult Group Toddler Toerags 9.30-11am jeannehoadley@yahoo.co.uk 380322 01322 9.30-11.30 Carer & Toddler Group, St Mary’s Church Hall, Stone Place Rd, Greenhithe. Jeanne 1-3pm Gigglekidz, Tree Estate Community Centre on Cedar Road - £2 Per Child Saturdays

healthy snack time for the children.

Daddy and Me 9.30.-11.30am A group for dads and male carers of children up to 5years. £1.50 includes reenhithe.com www.stmaryg see or 382031 01322 Contact Greenhithe.

Road London St Mary Greenhithe Church Hall,

Toddler Music & Rhyme Sessions

MONDAY S 10:30am - 11:00am & Friday 2:15pm - 2:45pm at Dartford Library - Baby Bounce & Rhyme Time TUESDAY S 2 sessions, from 9.30-10.30am and 10:45 - 11:45am in Fleetdown FC Hall; Heath Lane, Dartford. Contact Judi: 07970 730736. ALSO RUN SAME PLACE/TI ME ON THURSDAYS TUESDAY S 10.30m - 11.00am (term time only) at Fleetdown Library - Baby Bounce and Rhyme session. Tel: 08458 247 247.

THURSDAYS (term time only) we will be holding 2 sessions - 10.15am & 11am Crayford Rd, Crayford, DA1 4ER. Tel: 020 8303 7777. Also: Coffee and Chat sessions at Temple Hill Library on the First Tues of the month 10am - 12noon.

THURSDAYS 10.30am - 11.00am (term time only) at Fleetdown Library - Baby Bounce and Rhyme session. Tel: 08458 247 247.

THURSDAYS 2.15 - 2.45pm (term time only) at Greenhithe Library - Baby Bounce and Rhyme session. Tel: 08458 247 247.

THURSDAYS 10.45am - 11.15am (term time only) at Longfield Library - Baby Bounce and Rhyme session. Tel: 08458 247 247.

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MUSIC UMBRELLA

Classes for under-fives teaching the basic elements of music through whole body movement, using the Dalcroze and Kodaly methods. With action songs and games, using percussion instruments and props like hoops, balls and soft toys, the children develop musical, physical and social awareness, concentration, co-ordination and confidence - and have lots of fun! Becket Sports Centre, Thursdays during term time: babies and toddlers: 9.15 till 9.55; 3 and 4 year-olds: 10.00 till 10.40 Contact Myrtle : 07763 378451 Email : myrtlebm@hotmail.co.uk Slade Green and Howbury Community Library Baby and Toddler Action Rhyme time group Every Wednesday (Term Time only) at 11.15am LEGO Club Starts Saturday Nov 7th (and every Saturday there after) 2-3pm for ages 5 and over

Chrome Road Slade Green DA8 2EL Tel: 01322 333602

a b c +=

Little Bright Sparks Fun phonics, literacy and numeracy classes for 2-4 year olds. Classes held on Weds in East Malling and Thurs in West Kingsdown ÂŁ5.50 per class 07768 447657 for more info www.facebook.com/littlebrightsparks

Interested in advertising? Tel: 01322 507817 www.dartfordliving.com

Dartford Living

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Where to go locally...

The North West Kent Branch of the Motor Neurone Disease Association meets at 8pm on the

4th Wednesday evening of each month in the Pop-In Parlour, Mill Road, Northumberland Heath, Erith. The meetings last about 2 hours and the group often have a speaker on a variety of subjects, followed by tea and biscuits and general chat. For more information contact Eileen on 01322 228169.

Dartford Ostomy Group Support (DOGS) meet

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

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 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.

SHORNE FLOWER ARRANGERS Our Club presents a programme of workshops and demonstrations in a very informal and friendly atmosphere.

We meet on the last Thursday of each month except December. Shorne Village Hall, The Street, Shorne. DA12 3EA. Visitors are always made very welcome, entry £3. We have 30 members and look forward to welcoming anyone who loves flowers. The Club provides an opportunity for people to be creative, make friends.

For further information please phone 01474 353405 or email landaclatworthy@btinternet.com

Age UK, Crayford library Pop in Parlour coffee morning every Friday morning 10.30 - 12.30 Tea, Coffee, Biscuits and a chat - Just £1

BEXLEY AND DARTFORD BRANCH PARKINSONS UK

For people with Parkinsons and their carers.

We have 2 meetings per month. Bexley: 4th Thursday of each month, at Pincott Hall, 2-4pm. Dartford: 2nd Thursday of each month, Mick Jagger Centre, 7.30-9.30pm.

Information support workers available, guest speakers and quizzes. Contact Pamela Childs 0208 303 8971

MODERN LINEDANCING CLASSES

at Dance Union, Greenhithe.

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 01322 387630.

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

If so, email your suggestions to editor@dartfordliving.com Dartford & District Stamp Club Hold regular meetings in The Meeting Place, The Orchard Shopping Centre, Dartford. Details from Steve Alpe 01322 284491 or email steve_alpe@hotmail.com

The West Kent Book Club meets once a month on Saturday mornings at Dartford Library.

For more information, please call 07860 963333 or find us at www.meetup.com/ West-Kent-Book-Club/

DARTFORD U3A (UNIVERSITY OF THE THIRD AGE)

meets on the first Tuesday of every month (except August) at St Anselm’s Church Hall, West Hill, Dartford at 2pm. For information about meetings and interest groups call 01474-709068 or visit our website.

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 Chris 01322 836026

Dartford Quilters meet on the 2nd Saturday of each

month at the Mick Jagger Centre, Shepherds Lane, Dartford. We run a varied programme of activities suitable for the beginner through to the more experienced quilter. More details can be obtained from the club secretary on 01474 834872

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

GUITARS IN THE SHADOWS – JOIN IN MUSIC BY THE SHADOWS TO 60S TO ROCK N ROLL Meet at Dartford Working Mens Club (Essex Road) at 7.30pm on the fourth Thursday of the month.

Membership is free but we do ask for a small contribution to costs on the night. Call Ray on 07813 540131 or email guitarsinshadows@hotmail.com

COLUMBINE CHINA PAINTERS CLUB

meets on the 1st and 3rd Thursday each month at Sutton at Hone Village Hall. 1.30pm until 4.30pm. £2.00 per afternoon. £10.00 yearly fee.

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

Contact - Maureen Beckham 01322 287214. Marie Blake 01474 704581. Doreen Goddard 01474 707357.

WEST HILL MORRIS

RSPCA Come andKENT, join your local Morris side, dancing NORTH and performing Gravesend and WEST BRANCinHDartford, Bexley areas and throughout FREE MICRO CHIPP ING Kent in the Summer. We are a mixed and very sociable RSPCA North West side, andKent, can always find room foroffers newfree dancers Branch, and chipping musicians. great way of keeping micro s forIt’s alladomestic animalsaatgreat its fit and you’ll be helping to conserve clinic attradition.

37 Gordon Road, Dartford English We practice alternate , Kent,Tuesday evenings at Bexley, from September to April, DA1 2LX on the 1st Saturday in each month, then dancing out at pubs, clubs and fetes, 10am to 12.30pm is free but Private throughout Kent,. The fromservice May to August.

Bookings Contact Alison on 01322 donation s aretaken. appreciat ed. For more informat ion 862298, e-mail alisondukes@btinternet.com please visit www.rspca-kentnorthwest.org.uk.

Interested in advertising? Tel: 01322 507817 www.dartfordliving.com

Dartford Living

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Where to go locally...

TONI MOUNT HISTORY CLASSES

LOCAL DOG TRAINING SCHOOL

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

Established for 36years - No Expensive courses Puppies from 3months - Older dogs any age.

Tel. Barbara for more details 01322 663956

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!!

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

https://www.facebook.com/groups/DSTCAlumni/ 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

The Players Crayford We meet every Tuesday at 8.00 in the Community hall (opp St Paulinus church) Crayford. We are looking for anyone who could help us with sound, lights, scenery or singing/ acting on the stage - everyone welcome. Email me (Carolyn) for more details at c_sawyers@hotmail.com.

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 & Crayford Sea Cadets based at Brooklands Lake Dartford, next to Homebase on Princes Road. We parade every Tuesday and Thursday nights from 7pm- 9.15pm and is open to new recruits, junior cadets aged 10-12 and Sea Cadets aged 12-18. email dartfordscc@gmail.com for more details.

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Dartford Bellringers Holy Trinity Church, High Street, Wednesdays 8.009.30p.m. Free tuition with a very friendly, sociable group.

The ideal way to make new friends. Phone Ester 01322 220458 or email: esther.correia1@btinternet. com

North West Kent Family History Society

The Dartford Branch meet at the Technology College, Heath Lane, For more information see www.nwkfhs.org.uk

Dartford Art Group

We meet every Thursday evening from 7.309.30pm.

We meet at the What if...? Gallery 67-69 High Street Dartford DA1 1DJ. The cost to belong is £40 per annum. For further enquiries please email ruthghoward@aol.com or ring 07940 836672

Please mention Dartford Living when contacting our advertisers

The Rendezvous Club (50+)

Every Monday Time: 8pm - 10pm Location: The Pop in Parlour, Graham Road, Bexleyheath DA6 7EG Description: We are a friendly social group open to anyone over fifty. As a social group we enjoy a number of activities including bingo, a Beatle drive, quizzes, to name but a few.

We also take part in outside activities including going for a meal or a trip to the theatre. On occasions we welcome a guest speaker.

Admission: £2.50 per week. Annual membership £6 (payable in January ) Tel: 01322 287356 or 020 8304 6414

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 08454 500 287 and ask about the Dartford group.

NHS RETIREMENT FELLOWSHIP

DARTFORD LADIES PROBUS CLUB

A group of retired ladies meet locally for lunch on the 4th Wednesday of each month,. They raise funds for charity and usually invite a speaker. Join them and enjoy meeting and making new friends. If you would like more information please contact Iris (Secretary) on 01474 703448

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

The Rotary Club of the North Downs

They meet at the Holiday Inn, Black Prince, Thursday evenings 7:30pm for 7:45pm for Dinner and fellowship. For details phone 07759 863836.

CRAYFORD TOWN ARCHIVE incorporating Barnehurst and Slade Green. Meet every Monday (except the third Monday) of the month at Crayford Library hall - 2pm-4pm. Call in for a chat about old Crayford and to view the large collection of local images, or bring your own for us to copy.

MALE? AGED 18 - 44?

WANT TO HAVE FUN AND DO SOMETHING WORTHWHILE WITH YOUR SPARE TIME? We’ve arrived in Dartford and we are a NEW Round Table Get involved, you WILL enjoy it! www.dartfordroundtable.co.uk

Fairfield (Dartford) WI 2nd Tuesday of every month, Dartford Girls’ Grammar School, 7.30pm. Contact Judith on 01322 278703 or Evelyn on 07891 061609.

Crayford Women’s Institute 1st Thursday of every month at 1.45pm. Baker Trust Hall. Maxim Road, Crayford (near Sainsburys). Contact Secretary, Jean Monk 01322 557142

DARTFORD LIONS CLUB 1st Tuesday of every month Dartford Conservative Club Spital Street, Dartford DA1 2DT. Meeting start at 20:00.

Further details call Cathy 01322 618640

Crayford and District Probus Club

meet on 1st and 3rd Wednesdays at the Falcon Wood Club, 1 Falcon Wood Avenue, Welling at 10am.

Contact Tony Maun 0208 306 1075 or email Crayford.Probus@gmail.com.

Interested in advertising? Tel: 01322 507817 www.dartfordliving.com

Dartford Living

11

Where to go locally...

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

Kent Exiles American Football Club www.kentexiles.co.uk.

Coach Martin - 07944 730634.

All ages from 7 years to adult welcome

Hartley Swimclub at White Oak Pool, Swanley

We are a friendly group of adults who meet for a social swim every Thursday at 9pm.

We’re looking for new members. Why not give us a try?

Contact Diane on 01689 871846 or join us one Thursday.

LITTLE TIGERS - KARATE FOR 3, 4 & 5 YEAR OLDS Sundays 10:15-10:45 at Swanscombe Leisure Centre.

Call Saj on 07903 513104

Dartford Gymnastics

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

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

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

Learn Karate Learn karate with Yamato Damashii Every Saturday morning at Becket Sport Centre. Kids start at 9am, adults at 11am. Just turn up, first lesson free or visit www.facebook.com/yamatodamashiimartialarts [1] for more info.

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LEARN KICK BOXING AND KARATE!

Come and Join one of North Kent’s fastest and most successful Martial Arts clubs.

For more information, call Saj on 07903 513104 or just come along to one of our sessions and join in the fun! With the most reasonable fees around, you’ll find that training can be affordable too! For all details please visit our website www.northkentkarate.com

Dartford Orienteering Club

For more details see www.dfok.co.uk

YOGA WITH EMMA Wednesdays & Fridays 9:30am-10:30am At Europa Gymnastics Centre Fridays 7.00pm – 8.00pm at Becket Sports Centre For more information please contact Emma: emma@samadhi-yoga.co.uk

Based in Greenhithe, FREE FIT is a community fitness club designed for people of all ages looking to gain basic levels of fitness, drop a few pounds and enjoy meeting and training with like minded people.

So if Gyms are not your thing and you are looking to take your first steps in fitness and weight loss, come and train with free fit.

Please mention Dartford Living when contacting our advertisers

Interested in advertising? Tel: 01322 507817 www.dartfordliving.com

Dartford Living

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Useful Numbers 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 0800 0280247 Flooding 03459881180 Highways Kent 03000 41 41 41 Social Services 03000 41 41 41 Water Burst 0800 820 999 (Southern) 0800 714614 (Thames) HEALTH Darenth Valley Hospital 01322 428100 Dartfordf East Health Centre 01322 421480 Dartford West Health Centre 01322 222998 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

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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 HELPLINES 24 Hour Kent Dementia Helpline: 0800 500 3014 Alcoholics Anonymous: 08457 697 555 Citizens Advice Bureau: 01322 224686 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: 08457 909090

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

LOCAL SPORTS CLUBS

Search facebook for:

Bexley Rugby Club 01322 550142 or www.pitchero.com/clubs/ bexleyrfc/

Dartford Living Dartford Community Group Dartford Today Dartford Remembered Dartford Gossip Dartford Hour

Dartford Ladies Hockey Club Dawn Hall (Secretary) 07793 777250 Dartford Ju Jitsu Club Mondays, Dartford Girls Grammar School, Shepherds

Dartford Sharks Basketball Club Tim Dickson - 07855 692527.

Dartford Volleyball Club Graham - 01322 275290 or 07984 106134.

Stone Lodge Indoor Bowling Club 01322 274111.

VCD Table Tennis Club Eric Jenkins - 0208 3038312.

‘Play & pay’, 9 hole, par 3 golf course on Dartford Football Club’s Princes Park- PRINCES PARK GOLF CLUB. Contact: Mr. Pat Coleman, Secretary 01322 863730. email: pat.coleman@dartford.gov.uk The Ashes Badminton Club Mondays, Dartford Technology College, Heath Lane. 7.30-9.30.

Jacqui 07764 182854.

Dartford Valley RFC www.pitchero.com/clubs/ darenthvalleyrfc/ USEFUL FACEBOOK GROUPS

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Steve Cook postcard final:Layout 1

27/1/14

12:15

Page 1

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

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

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

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Dia Wipes are an essential part of your blood testing routine. Suitable for anyone who has Type 1 Diabetes, or those with Type 2 Diabetes who need to test their blood.

Keep Dia-wipes handy so your blood glucose testing does not slow you down: · School · Office · Car · Beach · Sports · Many more!

Each finger wipe measures 45mm x 70mm. Does not contain alcohol, fragrance or any product or chemical that will interfere with your blood glucose result. 25 wipes in each resealable pack. RRP £1.49 per pack

Available to order from leading insulin pump pouch and diabetic accessory supplier: Funky Pumpers www.funkypumpers.com or www.dia-wipe.com Interested in advertising? Tel: 01322 507817 www.dartfordliving.com

Dartford Living

17

Featured

The Priory Centre Community Grant (PCCG)

In July, the Priory Shopping Centre, in the heart of Dartford town centre launched The Priory Centre Community Grant (PCCG). The grant enabled hopefuls to apply for up to £2,000 of funding for community projects, with a total of £8,000 to be allocated.

The application process closed on the 16th August with 34 entries from locally based informal community groups, charities and not for profit organisations. A total of 8 winners were selected from the shortlist of 12 projects after a decision was made to add extra funding to the grant. The winning projects are: Dartford Beekeepers Funding will be used to purchase microscopes to enable visitors to better understand the anatomy of the bee and educate more people about their importance - did you know bees have 5 eyes!

Men’s Shed said: “Winning this money to help disabled people enjoy allotments will no doubt improve their lives and those on the Dartford Men’s Shed who volunteer to help them with a determined drive to succeed.”

Dartford Junior Parkrun Setting up a regular 2k timed run for runners of all abilities between the ages of 4 - 14 years in line with the established and successful local Parkrun.

Volunteer Community Transport This project provides essential volunteer transport for the frail and elderly to attend health and medical appointments and other activities. They’ll use the money to improve their already overstretched service to help more elderly people in the local area.

Heathfields Hall Upgrading the sound facilities at their theatre venue will allow the audience to enjoy the show to its full potential and in turn increase its audience reach.

Dreams in Dance This project provides fantastic dance and movement sessions for children with both physical and learning disabilities. They’ll use the funds to purchase sensory equipment and schedule more regular sessions.

Dartford Men’s Shed Project formed by ex-servicemen, they plan to develop an allotment space to allow disabled members of the community to enjoy the physical and mental benefits of gardening and outdoor work. Darren Riley from Dartford 18 1816

Dartford Valley RFC Will use the funds to make their rugby facilities open to even more of the local community, developing the ladies’ rugby team and starting wheelchair rugby.

Plastic Fantastic Will host engaging art and design workshops and activities for children using plastic waste that would otherwise be landfilled. Kate Withstandley from Dartford Arts Network commented : “We’re very excited to have won funding for our project. Our ‘Plastic Fantastic’ concept will bring the community together to create sculptures from recycled materials; having fun, being creative and learning about waste and resource at the same time! We can’t wait to get started on the project and get in touch with lots of different community groups to start gathering materials and generating ideas.”

See more about each project at http://www.projectdirt. com/cluster/priorycentre/#!/projects

Please mention Dartford Please mention DartfordLiving Livingwhen whencontacting contactingour ouradvertisers advertisers

Low cost vets expand to welcome more clients!

Pet owners in the Dartford area can delight in the fact that their local, low cost veterinary practice has now expanded to offer even more services. easipetcare, the low cost vets who care, have operated a popular vaccination and neutering clinic in the heart of Dartford for 4 months. However, as of November 2nd 2015, the practice will offer a full range of primary veterinary care.

A significant expansion project has seen the addition of brand new digital x-ray and ultrasound facilities as well as developments to the existing theatre. These updates will enable the delivery of consultations, vaccinations, neutering, dentistry, comprehensive x-rays, blood tests, surgery and more. All at the same extraordinarily low costs that current easipetcare customers have come to expect. easipetcare founder and vet for over 35 years, Judy Walker, comments:

“At easipetcare we firmly believe that the highest standards of veterinary care should be affordable for everyone. We are thrilled to have been able to expand our Dartford practice to offer more services as it ensures more than ever that local pet owners are able to get the right treatment for their beloved pet, without breaking the bank!”

The practice will operate a mix of appointments and walk-in sessions to provide complete flexibility. Walk-in clinics will run Monday to Friday from 12pm – 6pm and Saturdays from 9am – 12pm, with appointments available Monday to Friday, 8am – 12pm and 6pm – 8pm.

Found on Kent Road opposite Prospect Place Shopping Park, appointments are available now so call to book today! Contact the team at Dartford on 01322 223447 or email dartford@easipetcare.com.

You can also register your pet in advance to save time on the day! Visit www.easipetcare.com/dartford.

Shenley Road Garage

01322 229887

SAME DAY MOTs (Booking not always necessary)

• Tyres • Exhausts • Clutches • Timing Belt Changes • Petrol & Diesel Cars & Vans Welcome

Garages you can trust. Be assured that every garage listed performs services to a strict standard and will always have your best interests at heart.

We have a wide range of cars for sale on our website:

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Tel: 01322 507817 www.dartfordliving.com Interested in advertising?

01322 507817 www.dartfordliving.com Dartford Living

19 19

Featured Local Club

Dartford Valley Rugby Club - bringing the community together pictures Pete Bresser

Dartford Valley Rugby Club are doing great things for the Dartford Commiunity. After being formed in 2009 they have gone from strength to strength culminating in the launch of their Wheelchair Rugby team to slot in alongside their Mens, Womens and Kids teams.

“As a club we pride ourselves on respect and discipline and we are trying to give that back to the community by teaching people social skills and how to interact. We want to cater for every section in society.”

Upon launching the Wheelchair Rugby club captain Dan Edwards said. “We have just launched our squad and are looking for new players, assistance, promotion and funding for our team. We have organised a launch day on Sunday 15th November to give all potential players, interested club members and everyone else the chance to come along and see what the sport is all about and whether they would like to get involved.”

For full details visit our Facebook event page: https:// www.facebook.com/events/532644253557885/

The rugby club have also just secured money towards the cost of building a ground of their own, with the help of the local council Club president John Davis-Ashdown revealed the project was under way. He wrote: “Dartford Borough Council has shown great faith in what DVRFC offer to our community, with generous grants and support. “And then there is the BIG, BIG news: “Dartford Borough Council is giving us more than £1 million to build our very own clubhouse and the space for two full-size pitches – how wonderful is that!

“The project has just begun, so there are very exciting times ahead for DVRFC and the community that we serve.”

At the moment, the club is based at the Leigh Academy in Green Street Green Road and is the only one based in Dartford with nearby Dartfordians Rugby Club playing in Bexley. We are the only club in Dartford, which is odd for a town this size.

The Rugby club have also just launched their new shirt for the 2015/16 season that will be used for all of the Dartford Valley Rugby Club teams.

If you would like to get involved with the Rugby club the training details are as follows: Mens training - Tuesday/Thursday evenings - 7.30-9pm Ladies training - Tuesday - 6.30-7.30pm (+optional Thursday session) Youth Academy Training (3-16yrs) - Every Sunday - 10.0011.30am

“We are expanding at a tremendous rate, and that is without our own clubhouse and facilities, so the potential we have here is enormous.

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DARTFORD LIVING MEETS....... BY KELLY GOLDSWORTHY Continuing our series, focusing on members of the Dartford community, this month Kelly caught up with Vicky Francis who volunteers for Heavenly Gowns UK.

used. Now I’m doing something really worthwhile. It’s a really rewarding hobby. We get feedback from parents who are really grateful. Losing a child at any stage must be awful, so to be able to help in anyway is wonderful.’

Vicky told us her thoughts on Dartford : ‘Dartford is home.

I did move away for a while, but wanted to come back.

I live on Temple Hill and it is so friendly. We know all the neighbours and there is a great community spirit.’

To get involved with Heavenly Gowns, donate wool or if you would like to receive some of their items please see www.heavenlygowns.co.uk or go to their Facebook page by searching ‘Heavenly Gowns.’

Vicky lives in Dartford with her husband and four sons. She runs a Juice Plus franchise and in her spare time, crochets for Heavenly Gowns.

Vicky explained ‘Heavenly Gowns is an organisation made up of volunteers who make blankets, pouches, hats, booties, gowns, teddies and other items to give to parents at the time of a miscarriage or still birth. We currently supply to three hospitals and are working alongside SANDS (stillborn and neonatal death charity) to supply funeral homes. Individuals are also free to contact the charity and request items at the time of loss. People often donate wool and even wedding dresses for us to use.’

‘I found out about the group when it was set up in February from Facebook. They were asking for people who could knit, sew or crochet. I had taught myself to crochet the year before from youtube. I started by making a blanket and now I crochet for them most nights and I admin on the Facebook page. I find it really satisfying.

I used to crochet things, knowing they would never be Interested in advertising? Tel: 01322 507817 www.dartfordliving.com

Dartford Living

21

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23 23

Christmas Trees Tree Variety

Size Range

Price From

Norway Spruce

Approx. 5-7ft

£25.00-£30.00

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Subject to availability For more information, please contact us: 01322 669 711 │ info@stanhillfarm.co.uk │ www.stanhillfarm.co.uk Stanhill Farm, Birchwood Road, Wilmington, Kent, DA2 7HD

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N OP OW EN

FULL PRACTICE NOW OPEN Amazing opening offers CONSULTATIONS .............................£20 VACCINATIONS Kittens (9+ weeks) .......... £15 per vacc Puppies (6+ weeks) ........ £15 per vacc Rabbits ...............................................£15 Annual boosters.................... from £15

NEUTERING Cat spay..............................................£35 Bitch spay (any size) ........................£99 Cat castration ...................................£25 Dog castration (any size) ...............£75 MICROCHIPPING (all) .....................£10

APPOINTMENT CLINICS

WALK-IN CLINICS

Monday – Friday 8am – 12pm and 6pm – 8pm

Monday – Friday 12pm – 6pm Saturday 9am – 12pm

Register your pet today by visiting www.easipetcare.com/dartford 2 Kent Road, Dartford DA1 2DA t: 01322 223447 e: dartford@easipetcare.com /easipetcareDartford Prices available until Dec 31st 2015.

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Help with English and Maths 7-16.

Extension and support.

Qualified Teachers.

Ofsted Registered Maths Reading English Spelling Comprehension

DARTFORD • 01322 285685 67 Darenth Road, Dartford, Kent, DA1 1LU

kipmcgrath.co.uk/dartford What are Kip McGrath Educational Centres?

Kip McGrath has been running successful educational centres for more than thirty years and has more than six hundred branches throughout the world. The basic philosophy of all the centres is: ‘all children can succeed if given the right support.’ We employ fully qualified teaching professionals – not tutors - who work with children aged six to eighteen to help them build confidence; selfesteem and to make real progress. We aim to improve your child’s confidence; make learning fun and engaging and to help all of our students reach their full potential.

Call today for a FREE assessment

have. Your child will have an individual learning programme based on that assessment drawn up and feedback is available at every stage.

We have a mixture of unique resources that will keep your child engrossed in their learning.

Your child will use a mixture of computer and book based activities that have been written by qualified and experienced teachers. Children enjoy their learning and make real progress.

Kip McGrath Dartford.

Kip McGrath Dartford has been open for more than ten years and during that time has helped thousands of children make progress in their studies. We offer programmes in the following areas: Reading and Comprehension; writing and spelling; English and Maths (Key Stages 1-4) and preparation for the 11+ test.

We are registered with Ofsted, accept working tax credits and childcare vouchers and all of our staff have been vetted via a CRB or DBS. Your child would be working in a safe and welcoming environment that is designed to help them.

What does a typical Kip McGrath lesson entail?

We a r e o p e n d u r i n g t e r m t i m e s o n t h e following days: Tuesday to Friday 3.40-5.00 and 5.10-6.30 and Saturday morning 9.30-10.50 and 11.00-12.20.

Each session is eighty minutes long and your child would be taught by teachers in small groups. There is one on one tutoring within that lesson and your child follows a structured learning programme.

Homework is set every week and checked by the teacher. In addition to this, if you teach your child at home, or there is a change in circumstances, we can also provide lessons that your child can do at home.

The Kip McGrath difference: We offer an initial free assessment that will enable you to find out your child’s current levels and which will indicate any weaknesses they may

How do I book an initial assessment?

You can email us on: dartford@kip-mcgrath.com or phone on: 01322 285685.

We look forward to hearing from you

Local News

Thoughts of a Local....

by Jane Stevenson

LOOS-ING IT!

something to consider.

To pee or not to pee, that is the question, especially in Dartford! For a town of its size, and the expansion planned for the future, it’s ludicrous the number and state of the public conveniences in the town. Before I go on, let me clarify I have absolutely no idea about the state of the men’s loos – they may be perfectly acceptable, but us ladies have a problem.

It isn’t always convenient to leg it half way across the town to take a wee; I’d hate to be caught short at the top of Spital Street – jogging all the way back to the Priory Centre, then up a flight of stairs to the loos is not going to work for me, and I suspect, many others.

According to Dartford Borough Council, there are three locations for public conveniences: Market Street near the library, Central Park at the Cranford Road entrance and Hesketh Park, near the Park Road entrance. The fact that two of these locations aren’t really central to the town means spending a penny can be a fairly desperate situation for some.

The Market Street loos are disgusting! Smelly and housed in what looks like a fallout shelter, they offer two stalls for the ladies, and the last time I used them no toilet paper or soap in the dispenser. I won’t be returning.

I shan’t even bother with the other locations – I don’t want to have to trek to Hesketh Park to take a tinkle, thank you, especially if I’ve shopping to do in the town!

Even trotting across the park could be a journey too far for those caught short.

It isn’t all doom and gloom though. In Prospect Place there are toilets in Pizza Hut and Costa, although I expect they would prefer you to be a paying customer. Asda Living has a small customer toilet area, but at least there are facilities.

There are loos at the station – not sure if you’d have to buy a ticket to access them though, as they are beyond the ticket barrier. The library has a public loo but it seems to be permanently out of order.

Both the Orchard and Priory Centres have clean and well tended loos, with cleaners often visible. My point is though, that there simply aren’t enough loos for the town. There are none around the High Street area, where the market is held, or in Spital Street or Lowfield Street.

For some people visiting Dartford to attend appointments, shop or do business, such a journey requires forethought and planning as quick access to an open and clean public toilet is necessary because of health reasons. Disabled access and clean, hygienic baby changing facilities is also

28

So, Dartford Borough Council, perhaps it is time to review your policy on public loos. What about investing in some of the automatic toilets so prevalent in London? A few positioned around the town would be most welcome – and save the embarrassment of that hurried scurry across town.

What If . . . we take a fresh look at local artists?

The recent What If pop up gallery at Bluewater was a real eye opener.

Highlighting the work of local artists, it was a snapshot of all this is good in arts and crafts in the Dartford area.

I went along towards the end of the exhibition run in September, and was shown around by Kevin French, a stained glass artist, who was an exhibitor at the gallery.

There was something for everyone, from the quirky to the more traditional, paintings, ceramics, glass ware and clothing. Everything was reasonably priced and much had sold by the time of my visit.

The beauty of supporting local community artists is that should you decide to buy an item you have an original: no-one else will own it.Art is also extremely personal, and that old adage ‘one man’s meat is another man’s poison’ holds true. There were items that didn’t appeal to me, and work that I wanted to own and display. There was chance to see some of the craftsmen and women at work, bringing their passion to life as I watched.

Those present were eager to share the experience with me and discuss how they produced the wide ranging exhibits.

The exhibition is now closed, but I have come away with a better understanding of the versatility and range of the art community in Dartford; and of course the gallery is open to the public as well. I would recommend a visit to anyone looking for the unusual or inspiration to let your own creative side surface.

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MAS AT THE PRIORY T S I R H C

Letters to S anta

Sa nt a

Grotto

a nt Sa

S anta’s

No.1

SANTA’S GROTTO Opens 27th November

LETTERS TO SANTA SATURDAY 5th, 12th & 19th December 11am-4pm

For opening times and prices visit theprioryshoppingcentre.co.uk

Come design, decorate and send your Christmas list to Santa!

PrioryDartford

@PrioryDartford

Dartford Living

29

Kids Zone Crafts

Max's Makerspace

By MicroHackers - A Dartford Edtech Startup

Cup phone Materials: • 2 x Plastic drinking cups • 1 x Long length of string Equipment: • 1 x Pencil • 1 x Piece of plasticine

Instructions: 1. Stand one of the plastic cups on a ball of plasticine, and push a pencil through the bottom of the cup making a hole. Repeat this process for the other cup.

2. Tie a knot in the long length of string.

3. Thread the string through the hole in one of the cups and pull through until the knot is inside the cup against the hole.

4. Thread the other end of the string through the second cup and tie a knot.

5. Two of you can now take a cup each and walk away from each other until the string has been pulled tight between each of the cups.

5. Take it in turns to speak into your plastic cup, whilst your partner places their ear into their cup.

How the cup phone works: The vibration from your voice is transfered to the plastic cup. Because the string has been pulled tight, the vibrations are able to travel along it, causing the other plastic cup to vibrate in the same way, enabling your partner to hear your voice.

www.microhackers.co.uk max@microhackers.co.uk

30

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Dartford Legal Services Ltd Commercial & Residential Conveyancing Probate & Wills Commissioner for Oaths Reasonable fixed fees

Regulated by Council for Licensed Conveyancers Fully Insured Tel: 01322 291379 Email: Info@darfordlegalservices.com Website: www.dartfordlegalservices. com

JOHN HARGREAVES

BUILDING & HOME IMPROVEMENT SERVICES Wide range of building & home improvement services for the interior & exterior of your property.

• BRICKWORK • CARPENTRY •PAINTING • DECORATING • FENCING • DECKING • PATIOS • TILING • GENERAL MAINTENANCE Friendly, reliable, local service.

30+ years of experience working in the construction industry. No job is too small.

CALL TODAY! 07957 195272 OR 01322 220562 After 6pm.

Interested in advertising? Tel: 01322 507817 www.dartfordliving.com

Dartford Living

31

Pet Corner

Every month Judy Walker (CEO of easipetcare) will be sharing her hints and tips for caring for your pet

Kitten too cuddly? Pooch with a paunch?

With the dark nights and cold weather firmly in place, now is the time we appreciate our warm, snuggly homes and chunky winter knits. With this comes an abundance of sofa-time and comfort food! But it isn’t just us humans who risk piling on the pounds… our pets are also at a greater risk at this time of year.

Latest research from the PDSA has estimated that 1 in 3 dogs, 1 in 4 cats and 1 in 4 rabbits in the UK are overweight or obese. With this set to rise, it is a topic which concerns veterinary professionals such as myself.

For dogs, one of the main causes is lack of exercise – a factor which increases through the winter months – but issues affecting all small animals (dogs, cats, rabbits etc) include overfeeding, excessive treating and the feeding of human food.

Obesity causes discomfort and illness and can drastically reduce the quality and length of life of your precious pet.

Associated health problems and their treatment not only cause animals distress, they also cost you money!

All of this can be avoided by following these fantastically simple tips:

4.

Feed treats in moderation Treats are a lovely addition to any pet’s diet. They allow us to show fondness for the animal and encourage interaction. But did you know… half a sausage to a dog is the equivalent of 9 digestives to a human?! Be sure to limit treating to the amount advised on the packet to ensure a balanced and health diet is maintained.

My mission is to keep pets of the UK happy and healthy and at easipetcare we are on hand to talk about any concerns you may have with your precious pet.

Here’s to a happy and healthy November!

1.

Join a Pet Fit Club!

By visiting a pet health clinic you can get your pet weighed, learn about ideal diet plans and discuss any concerns with a trained professional.

2.

Get your pets moving Exercise isn’t just for dogs! All pets should be encouraged to exercise on a regular, daily basis.

Dogs should be walked on a daily basis for a substantial length of time. There is also the option of dog training classes or locally organised dog walks that are great fun for your pooch. Did you know… the success of finding the human soul mate at such events is very high!

If your cat, rabbit or ferret is an indoor pet, make sure they have access to plenty of space with places to climb to if appropriate. A designated play time also works wonders.

There are also fitness DVDs for pets and their owners… yes it’s true!! Try searching the internet!

3.

Follow pet food guidance There are many brands of pet food available and each one will recommend different portion sizes and feeding times.

It is important to read packets carefully to understand the best advice for your pet.

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other local directory listings start from in excess of £200!

The site will have a professional look and will be easy to navigate and easy to search for local businesses and services.

Sign Up Now: The New Dartford Business Directory

By Dave Shafford

Dartford Living recently announced an online business directory for Dartford.

We are aiming to make this section of our website the premier online place to find a business or service in Dartford.

We are offering a listing in the directory for an introductory price of just £20 for the whole year (reduced from £99).

It’s even cheaper if you are a Dartford Living advertisers at just £10. This offers exceptional value for money,

As part of your listing you will receive a dedicated page for your business that can contain a description of the business, all your contact details including social media links, a Google map to your premises, any special offers and photos of your products and services.

There is also the possibility of paying for a front page listing for an extra £50 per year.

The site is currently under development for launch early next year. If you would like to be included in the directory please email directory@dartfordliving.com No payments will be taken until the site is live. The yearly subscription will start from the go live date. www.dartfordbusinessdirectory.co.uk - coming soon

Interested inInterested advertising?

Tel: 01322 507817 www.dartfordliving.com Dartford Living in advertising?

Tel: 01322 507817 www.dartfordliving.com

33 25

Local Events

Enjoy the magic of Christmas at Bluewater

Bluewater is set to make the festive season sparkle with a host of special events in the run-up to Christmas.

As well as helping visitors crack their Christmas shopping lists, Europe’s leading retail, leisure and events destination will be hosting an array of activities for all the family to enjoy – from the magical Light Switch On, Winter Wonderland and Santa’s Grotto to The Giving Tree, a charity campaign in association with Heart FM to help disadvantaged children.

Celebrations begin on November 13th with the annual Christmas Light Switch On, a unique fireworks display to the soundtrack of festive favourites. Heart FM presenter Toby Anstis will be hosting with entertainment kicking off from 6:30pm outside Marks and Spencer.

On the same day, Bluewater will be unveiling The Giving Tree, an initiative encouraging generous shoppers to pick a gift tag and donate a gift to someone less fortunate.

Last year visitors to Bluewater helped donate more than 10,000 gifts which were collated and given to disadvantaged children through charities including Demelza Hospice, The Royal British Legion, The Rocking Horse Children’s Centre and Chestnut Tree House Children’s Hospice.

From November 26th until January 3rd, visitors will be able to experience Bluewater’s famous Winter Wonderland, with a host of thrilling activities, including a 6,000 square foot real indoor Ice Rink, a fantastic 40-metre Snow Slide and a Christmas 4D Cinema. Bluewater’s Winter Wonderland will also offer families the magic of Christmas with stacks of indoor traditional rides, amusements, games and more. To book tickets visit: http://bluewaterwinterwonderland.co.uk Helping to spread Christmas cheer and merriment, Santa’s Grotto will open its doors from the 26th November until Christmas Eve. During the visit with Santa Claus, each child will be given a commemorative plush toy and the chance for a photo keepsake, which can be purchased afterwards at the Ice Palace Photo Shop. Visits can be booked in advance at http://bluewaterwinterwonderland.co.uk The Christmas Light Night marks the start of extended Christmas shopping hours at Bluewater making this festive season’s shopping easier than ever before. From 13th November, Bluewater will extend their opening hours from 9am – 10pm.

From the 8th December, shoppers will have an extra hour to find the ultimate Christmas gift with all retailers keeping their doors open until 11pm.

Bookings for Winterwonderland are recommended in advance at weekends and in the Christmas holidays is advised as demand is high and availability limited! To find out more about Christmas at Bluewater visit www. bluewater.co.uk.

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careis...

finding room to foster Young people in care need a place to stay and a place in your life.

If you’ve got room to foster, call Foster Care Associates today on 0800 022 4012.

0800 022 4012

fosterwithfca.co.uk

Charity Focus

Each month we will be featuring a local charity. If you represent a charity and would like to be featured please email charity@dartfordliving.com

A Message from Councillor Ian Armitt to Promote the Mayor’s 2015/16 Charity Appeal

– sometimes unnecessarily, as a sick child can get better as quickly as he or she can get worse.

On the first occasion I was Mayor in 2005/6 I was involved in the launch of the Lollipop Appeal for a High Dependency Children’s Unit at Darent Valley Hospital.

With the Mayoress I decided this year to revisit this very worthwhile cause through my 2015/16 Charity Appeal for the Lollipop Fund.

Darent Valley Hospital has staff trained in high dependency care and with donations has been able to introduce a range of very expensive specialist equipment in order to give these children the very best possible chance of full recovery.

My reason for so doing was that children are so precious and the very thought of a sick child in distress and in need of highly specialist care, followed up by constant monitoring can upset us all. At such a time it is important for the child to be near his or her parents. In fact research has shown that a child with the comfort and reassurance of the parents close at hand stands a much improved chance of recovery.

Thankfully, most of us will never have to experience the serious illness of our children. But just imagine if you did, be it through an injury or a disease such as meningitis.

Such a crisis would be bad enough, but imagine the upheaval of a transfer to another hospital far from home

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Less costly but equally important to the Darent Valley staff is the improvement of facilities for parents needing to stay overnight with their child and, thanks to the kind donations made, comfortable folding beds have been introduced together with a special room where parents can make a drink and rest or talk.

If you would like to support the Lollipop Fund through my Charity Appeal please make a donation by cheque made payable to ‘The Mayors Charity Account’ and send to me at The Mayor’s Parlour, Dartford Borough Council, Civic Centre, Home Gardens, Dartford DA1 1DR. I would like to thank Dartford Living for allowing me the space to promote my Appeal and thank you for taking the time to read this piece.

Councillor Ian Armitt The Worshipful Mayor of Dartford

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WEST KENT CHARITY AWARDED MAJOR BIG LOTTERY FUND GRANT TO HELP DOMESTIC ABUSE VICTIMS A major grant of nearly half a million pounds has this week been awarded to Choices Domestic Abuse Service – a charity which was founded in 1996 with refuge accommodation for 3 families in one property but today delivers a wide range of refuge and community services to those affected by domestic abuse.

There were 28,213 reported domestic abuse incidents in Kent alone last year. This is known to be the tip of the iceberg as most domestic abuse is not reported yet there is still a gap in support for those who are not seen as being high risk.

The £498,710 Big Lottery Fund grant will be used to set up a Community Prevention and Support Project from Spring 2016 which will enable the charity to reach those who are living with abusive behaviour (predominantly in Maidstone, Dartford and Gravesham) via a dedicated helpline, specialist outreach support and more community programmes.

The new service will mean that anyone who is worried that they – or someone close to them - are in an abusive relationship will have access to confidential advice and support and the opportunity to understand the common tactics that are used in abusive relationships.

DCI Andy Pritchard, Kent Police stated “The level of support afforded to standard risk victims is considerably less than those in the high risk category, and we are now seeing that subsequent serious incidents are often amongst the medium risk category … Between us we have to try and plug some of that gap.”

Sylvia Murray, Joint CEO of Choices Domestic Abuse Service said, “The gap in support for those who are not assessed as being at high risk has been recognised by our clients and professionals who work with them. We are delighted that this grant will enable us to respond to this need and raise awareness of this issue which causes untold misery to so many people”.

domestic abuse and with the cost to the Kent economy standing at £382 million (Kent Select Committee 2012), this is an issue that can’t be ignored.

Endorsement for the project was received by many professionals including the Police, Social Services, Health Visitors – but also importantly from those whom Choices work with who have themselves suffered domestic abuse.

In an ex-client, Annie’s*, words: “Where am I today? I am so much happier, I no longer blame myself for wearing that pair of shoes that maybe I shouldn’t have or for expressing this or that view or seeing a friend. There are no excuses for the abuse that I suffered and I wasn’t to blame. If I could say one thing to anyone going through what I went through, it would be, ‘Please, go and speak to someone, please seek help.’ I will never ever forget what Choices did for me.” *The name of the client has been changed to protect her identity.

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2937

Business and Dhiren’s Automotive News Automotive In this edition we’ll look at new models from Suzuki, Jaguar and Rolls-Royce available from early next year.

2016 Fiat Tipo hatchback

turbocharged W12 petrol engine with 600bhp. Bentley says the Bentayga can reach a top speed of 187mph, and can accelerate to 60mph in four seconds. CO2 emissions are rated at 292g/km, with a combined fuel consumption figure of 22.1mpg. the cabin is adorned with high-quality materials and features a large central infotainment screen, a part-digital instrument cluster and separate infotainment screens for rear passengers. Official pricing for the Bentayga starts at £160,200 and will go on sale early next year.

The Volkswagen emissions scandal

Fiat has now confirmed the Tipo will come to the UK, but it’s expected that only the hatchback and estate versions of the car will be offered. The five-door hatchback offers seating for five and is likely to offer competitive levels of storage space. At launch, the new Tipo will come with four engines - two diesels and two petrols - with power outputs ranging from 94bhp to 118bhp. Fiat claims the engines are capable of returning up to 70.6mpg. The Tipo saloon comes with equipment including Fiat’s Uconnect infotainment system, with a 5.0in colour touchscreen 30 Please mention Living contactinghas our advertisers interface, Bluetooth connectivity, USB andDartford aux inputs, and when Volkswagen been cheating in emission tests by making steering wheel controls as standard. Prices for the Tipo its cars appear far less polluting than they are. The US hatchback have yet to be announced, but it’s expected Environmental Protection Agency discovered that 482,000 to be competiti,ve against the likes of the Ford Focus, VW diesel cars on American roads were emitting up to which starts at £15,995 when it arrives early in 2016. 40 times more toxic fumes than permitted - and VW has 2016 Bentley Bentayga since admitted the cheat affects 11m cars worldwide. VW’s “defeat device” is not a physical device but a programme in the engine software that lets the car perceive if it is being driven under test conditions - and only then pull out all the anti-pollution stops. The EPA tests have known practices and profiles. In many cases, the test vehicles are put on rollers and run at a certain speed for a certain time, then at another known speed for another known period. The car’s central computer can detect whether inputs match those The Bentley Bentayga is the British marque’s first SUV, expected in test conditions. VW has issued a recall for its and the newest entrant into the emerging ultra-luxury 482,000 cars in the US and halted sales of its affected Audi SUV market. Although it’s being pitched as a luxury A3, and VW Jetta, Beetle, Golf and Passat diesel models. vehicle, Bentley wants to emphasise the car’s practical No action has been announced elsewhere, however. The elements. The SUV measures 5.14 metres long, with a corporation faces investigation in the US, a possible fine, wheelbase of nearly three metres. The standard car sits and expects to spend billions on fixes and compensation. on 20in wheels, but wheels of up to 22 inches are also Criminal charges and civil actions could follow. The available. The Bentayga weighs 2422kg. At launch, the question on drivers’ minds is - is this limted to VW? Bentayga will only come with one engine option - a twin-

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Tips for small businesses Each month Paul Conradi, Chartered Accountant at Conradi Morrison & interest payments on rented domestic Co, will be giving us his professional properties. By 2020, tax relief on interest a d v i c e fo r s m a l l b u s i n e s s e s . . will only be available at the lower rate of tax. For landlords with many properties and Letting Properties large loans, this may make their business unprofitable.

In the Budget, the Chancellor proposed to replace the existing 10% wear and tear allowance for furnished lettings from April 2016, with a ‘replacement furniture relief’ for the cost of replacing furniture, furnishing, appliances and kitchenware. Under this new system, the initial cost of furnishing a property would not be allowable for tax purposes. The removal of the 10% wear and tear allowance and the fact that the initial cost of furnishing a property would not be allowable will mean that in general, landlords will be paying more tax.

All landlords should have a meeting with their Accountant to discuss the same and consider other legal vehicles in which to hold the properties.

As your local Accountant, I would be very glad to meet you and discuss the possibility of tax planning in your business. For more information, please see page two of this month’s Dartford Living and feel free to call me on 01322 278188 to arrange a meeting without charge.

In the same Budget, the government decided that higher tax relief would not be allowable for

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Dartford Living

39

SUDOKU

Coffee break Grid n°1926894497 medium

8

3 7 6 1

9 4 3

7 6

2 9

8

1

1 2 7

6 9 4

4 2 3 7

HOW TO PLAY: Fill in the grid so that every row, every column and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 through to 9, with no repetition.

That’s all there is to it!

(Solution on page 46)

Make your own free printable sudoku at www.PrintMySudoku.com

What is a Good “Diet”?

These days everyone’s an expert. Your over/underweight friend, your mum who’s been to a slimming club, your work colleagues, the magazine you read… But what they’re telling you is often contradictory and conflicting.

The truth is there’s no one, perfect diet that works for everyone. LOTS of these things will work… for some people.

The key things to embrace are not the differences, but the common ground between all successful “Diets”.

For weight loss, yes, you will need to eat less calories than you burn (but that doesn’t necessarily mean eat less!)

All successful, healthy diets (you can have a successful unhealthy diet, but the results are short-term and you’ll feel terrible doing them – think “juice detox”, or powdered meal replacements!!) have a few things in common.

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F I T N E S S

A good diet will address energy balance (calories in vs calories out) without a drastic reduction in calories, but through good nutrition and switching from high-calorie/ low nutrient foods, to low-calorie/high nutrient foods.

By making this switch you may be surprised at just how much you can eat and remain within your calorie goal.

It will look at health, nutrition, hydration, body composition (body fat % vs. lean/fat-free mass) and performance, not just weight.The healthy diet will not be set, but flexible and constantly changing to meet your needs. This relies on you monitoring your progress and making appropriate adjustments to suit. If weight loss is slow, you’ll need to alter the diet in some way; if you lose weight, but

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your body fat % increases, you’ll need to immediately re-evaluate and make the necessary changes to make sure you’re losing fat and not muscle.

The point is – you can’t follow an “exact” plan permanently; the diet will change as your body does, and you’ll need to stay on top of this. That’s why your skinny friend can eat junk and not gain weight and you just need to look at a cake… It’s because their dietary requirements are DIFFERENT to yours, and in a year’s time, so will yours be!

The diet needs to be sustainable, not something that ends when you lose x-lbs, or go on holiday; not something that you suffer through for 3 weeks, and then revert to your old ways. You don’t “Go on a diet”, you change your eating habits.

And finally, the “Diet” will look outside of just food!

Exercise is a crucial part of the energy balance equation, and if you want to burn more calories than you eat, this should be your first port of call before you start reducing food intake and restricting your nutrient intake.

By Mark Broadbent, Master Personal Trainer & Instructor at Dartford Bootcamps.

Visit www.DartfordBootcamps.com for information on Personal Training, Nutrition coaching or Bootcamp Fitness classes. MarkOneFitness.blogspot.com

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Gardening Hints and Tips - November Plants of the month Ensure your garden remains colourful throughout winter with our plants of the month. There’s plenty to choose from including: winter-flowering heathers, winter jasmine, Viburnum bodnantense, Viburnum farreri, Viburnum tinus and mahonias And don’t forget plants grown for their berries, colourful stems and the huge range of evergreens available.

Poinsettias You can’t beat poinsettias to provide plenty of festive cheer to your home over winter. They’re available in a range of colours – just look at what’s on offer in our houseplant section. When you get them home, place them somewhere they’ll receive reasonable warmth and good light, and well away from draughts and extremes of heat – such as near radiators.

Fruit Create your own fruit garden – now’s an excellent time to plant fruit trees and bushes, and we have a superb range available. To ensure bumper crops, plant with plenty of organic matter and slow release fertiliser. Make sure you train bushes where necessary, and use stakes and ties for fruit trees.

Composting Don’t throw away your spent bedding plants, kitchen waste and other plant material – turn them into valuable compost for improving your soil and mulching your beds. And fallen tree leaves can be turned into leafmould – the perfect soil improver and mulch, especially for rhododendrons, azaleas and other woodland plants. Making good compost and leafmould is easy with our wide range of compost bins, compost and leafmould accelerators, leaf rakes and collectors.

Gardening

quality colourful azaleas and cyclamen. They’re easy to look after – just put them somewhere cool and in good, indirect light. Keep the compost moist, and feed regularly for best results.

Evergreen shrubs If your garden is looking a bit dull and lacks structure, brighten it up with evergreen shrubs.

We have a fabulous range to choose from – many of which also have other attractions – such as flowers and berries – to provide colour all year round. Get newly-planted evergreen shrubs off to the best possible start by planting with compost and slow-release fertiliser.

Tender Plants Tender plants won’t appreciate being kept out in the cold – so move them somewhere protected from frost and cold winds. We have an excellent selection of cold frames and heaters to give protection and beat off the worst of the winter weather. Plants that are hardier, but still sensitive to winter cold, will appreciate a thick mulch of bark and even covering with fleece and bubble wrap during the coldest weather.

Lift dahlias, cannas, begonias Once the first frost has blackened the foliage of dahlias, it’s time to carefully lift the tubers for overwintering in a cool but frost-free place.

Remove any loose soil and hang them upside down for a few days to drain any water in the stems. Then remove all dried soil, label and store them in just damp compost. The tubers of cannas and large-flowered begonias will also need lifting. Canna tubers are also stored in just damp compost, but begonias should be stored dry in nets in association with

Cyclamen and azaleas Brighten up your home this winter with our superb Interestedininadvertising? advertising?

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41

Local Sports News

Founded in 1888, this season saw Dartford FC celebrate their 127 birthday back in September. We caught up with a few of the players from the club about the season so far.

Captain Elliot Bradbrook “This is an important season for the club. Tony Burman has chosen to go in a different direction this year, bringing in some younger players and introducing a number of the academy lads to the first team. These are the first steps towards building a new Dartford squad capable of taking the club forward in the years to come. Our results have admittedly been mixed so far this season, but building a successful team takes time and patience. We have an excellent group of young players here and there is a lot of good things to come from them in future.

Ebou Adams: I am happy to be part of a team full youngsters and experienced players which is a good mix.

Everyone can learn from anyone in this team and it is a pleasure to represent Dartford FC on and off the pitch. When I put on a Dartford shirt I give it everything I have. There is fuel in the tank and the best is yet to come!

Andy Pugh The season so far has been ok, and I think a bit of inconsistency has been shown. It is still early doors, and as a team we are starting to gel a lot better. We need to stick with this season and progress – this isn’t a short team goal for us we’re in this for the longevity. As an Academy Manager it’s been good to see Ben Francis and Dajon Golding progress through to the First Team also.

Ryan Hayes I have been playing for Dartford for ten full seasons now and I still enjoy every minute of it. The team we have in place now is a good mix and we are building and working on becoming the best we can. The Manager Tony Burman is the best man for the job here, and we have so much more to give this season. It is still only early days.

Tom Gardiner I’m enjoying the challenge and the opportunity of playing first team football. There is a great group of players around me and the management who want to get the best out of me. I want to keep growing my game and I hope we finish in a good position and end our season in a positive way.

Kaka Dembele The season has been good so far for me. I’m playing and making an impact which is good. Tony is giving me a chance which is something you don’t often get so I’m making sure when I do play I’m doing the right things and helping the team to win games. Personally it’s making me a better player, playing with men who have played in the conference prem for a few years. I’m looking forward to the rest of the season.

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Bav’s Sporting Comment Lewis Hamilton is not there yet, but he might as well be.

The Briton’s victory in Russia was his ninth win in 15 races this season. It has moved him to within touching distance of a third world title. It would take something profoundly amazing to wrench it from his grasp. Hamilton is 66 points clear of Ferrari’s Sebastian Vettel, and 73 ahead of Mercedes team-mate Nico Rosberg.

With a maximum of 100 points available over the remaining (at time of writing) four races in the USA, Mexico, Brazil and Abu Dhabi, the size of the task facing Hamilton’s pursuers is clear.

When Hamilton wins the title - because it surely is now a ‘when’ and not an ‘if’ - it will be no less than he deserves. In truth, the trophy has appeared destined for his mantelpiece ever since he got off to a flying start by winning in Australia back in March and raced into a 27-point lead - more than a clear race victory - after just four grands prix.

Mercedes have made this new hybrid era of F1 their own, through investing in the car and engine earlier and

more substantially than their rivals. They have reaped the rewards with two years of domination as complete as any era in history. Behind them, all their rivals lack in one way or another, and it is going to take something special from one of them to stop Mercedes taking title number three next year, and Hamilton earning title number four.

Upcoming events in November include: 1: F1 - Mexican Grand Prix, Mexico City 1-5: Pakistan v England, third Test, Sharjah 3: Horse racing - Melbourne Cup, Flemington 12-14: Football - Euro 2016 play-offs first leg 15: F1 - Brazilian Grand Prix, Sao Paulo 15-17: Football - Euro 2016 play-offs second leg 16-22: Tennis - ATP World Tour Finals, London 27-29: Tennis - Davis Cup final 29: F1 - final race of the season - Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Yas Marina

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43

Local Entertainment News

Local talent heads to LA

Local resident Lyn Mathews tells Dartford Living about her daughter who is hitting the big time in LA. It all started at the Mick Jagger centre here in Dartford.

Louisa Faye (as she is known by her professional name) found out a few weeks ago that is due to reprise her role of Lisa in the sequel Bandit Hound 2. This is a feature film due to start filming in January after the release of the first Bandit Hound this coming Christmas. She has been in various short films that are going to Sundance festival and various other international ones. She has been in countless theatre gigs across town and is currently shooting a new tv-series and also starring in ‘From Her Eye’s Only’ in Edgemar Theatre Santa Monica.

Born in Gravesend in 1989, Louisa grew up in Bean and moved to Dartford in 1998 where it all started. As a Mother I saw something special in Louisa and enrolled her into the Miskin Theatre summer musical theatre programme and then she went onto The Orchard Youth Theatre School at the Mick Jagger Theatre for many years. Louisa’s skills and talent went from strength to strength being accepted into the National Youth Theatre by aged 15 and by the age of 18 she was accepted into one of the best drama schools in the UK, the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama. Three years of dedicated acting training lead her to secure an agent, move back to London and within a month of graduating was auditioning for the likes of the BBC, the Royal Court and Young Vic. Through the past two years she’s got short films, voice & animation jobs and theatre jobs in London. However she decided to move to Hollywood and continue her career over there and what a good decision that’s been (even though I miss her terribly).

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Ticket Office

01322 220000 THAT’LL BE THE DAY

Competition

or www.orchardtheatre.co.uk

CHRISTMAS SHOW 14TH DECEMBER Get ready for a party as the UK’s most successful Rock ‘N’ Roll variety show, the legendary That’ll Be The Day, returns with its Brand New 2015 Christmas Show! Trevor and the gang celebrate the festive season by bringing back the good times with all your favourite Christmas classics from the 50s, 60s & 70s, plus more hilarious comedy! Join in the festive fun this Christmas!

Dartford Living and The Orchard have teamed up to offer 2 tickets to the show. To be in with a chance of winning this fantastic prize just answer the following question...

Which of the following is not an era featured in the show?

A) 1950s B) 1960s C) 1970s D) 1980s Please send your entries to Orchard Theatre Competition, Dartford Living, PO Box 283, Dartford, Kent, DA1 9BW or email comp@dartfordliving.com by the 15th November - RULES: 1. The winner(s) will be the first correct entry/entries drawn. 2. The judge’s decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. 3. Prizes are as stated and no cash in lieu or an alternative prize will be offered. 4. Proof of posting will not be regarded as proof of delivery. 5. Winners will be notified by telephone by the Orchard, within 5 working days of the competition being drawn. 6. Employees and the immediate families of participating companies are ineligible to enter. 7. Closing date for the competition is stated above.

OCTOBER’S COMPETITION WINNER : JANICE COLLINS Ref:AC1

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Sutton Court, Church Road,Sutton At Hone, Dartford, Kent, DA4 9EX 9:30am Your Consultant’s name is June 07957 902767 VCD Sports Club, Old Road, Crayford, Kent, DA1 4DN 5:30pm and 7:30pm Your Consultant’s name is Sue 07507599691 Fleetdown Community Centre, Swaledale Road, Dartford, Kent, DA2 6JZ 5:30pm and 7:30pm Your Consultant’s name is Paula 07891 424401

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Glentworth Ex Service Club, 154 Lowfield Street, Dartford, Kent, DA1 1JB 5:30pm and 7:30pm Your Consultant’s name is Angela 07956 896679 Wednesday Glentworth Ex Service Club 154 Lowfield Street, Dartford, Kent, DA1 1JB 9:30am and 12:00pm Your Consultant’s name is Angela 07956 896679 Crayford Royal British Legion Club, 214A Iron Mill Lane, Dartford, Kent, DA1 4PE 5:30pm and 7:30pm Your Consultant’s name is Liz 07900 213548 South East Dance Studios, On the site of Oasis Academy,39 Egerton Avenue, Hextable, Swanley,Kent, BR8 7LG 5:00pm and 7:00pm Your Consultant’s name is Caroline 07776 181413 Thursday Crayford Royal British Legion Club, 214A Iron Mill Lane, Dartford, Kent, DA1 4PE

9:30am Your Consultant’s name is Liz 07900 213548 South East Dance Studios, On the site of Oasis Academy,39 Egerton Avenue, Hextable, Swanley,Kent, BR8 7LG 9:30am Your Consultant’s name is Caroline 07776 181413 St Anselm’s Parish Centre, 89 West Hill, Dartford, Kent, DA1 2HJ 5:00pm and 7:00pm Your Consultant’s name is Gillian 07957 135737 Greenhithe & Swanscombe British Legion, London Road, Greenhithe, Kent, DA9 9EJ 5:30pm and 7:30pm Your Consultant’s name is Paula 07891 424401 Saturday Amar Hall, East Hill, Dartford, Kent, DA1 1RX 9:00am Your Consultant’s name is Sarah 07739 027161 Christ Church Centre, Kingswood Avenue, Swanley, Kent, BR8 8AN Saturdays 9:00am Your Consultant’s name is Kelli 07535 443981