Dartford Living March 2015

Plus - All your regular features, puzzles, events, information and much, much more in our new 48 page issue.

What’s Inside...

Local News:Jumping Jack Plaquepage 22

Local Business: WisdomEstatesPage 24

Charity FocusParents ConsortiumPage 36

Getting Dartford Working

page 18

March 2015 - Issue 105www.dartfordliving.comDartford

Living

DARTFORD BUSINESS CENTRE

2 Please mention Dartford Living when contacting our advertisers

Tel: 01322 278188 Haslemere, 4 Summerhill Rd, Dartford DA1 2LP Email: [email protected]

COMPANY FORMATIONSave tax by forming a private company from as

little as £45 + registration fee + VAT.www.companyregistration.org

ACCOMMODATION ADDRESSHave a virtual office accommodation address

facility for as little as £40.00 per month.www.accommodation-address.com

RENT AN OFFICE24/7 Offices available to rent from as little as £38.00 per

week with parking.www.accommodation-address.com

ACCOUNTANCY & TAX SERVICEConradi 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

PAYLINELet us undertake your payroll and

take the strain from you for as little as £18 per month + VAT.

www.payline.org

PROVIDING A FULL SERVICE TO DARTFORD SMALL BUSINESSES

“A Hand Holding Service”

Established35 years

2 Please mention Dartford Living when contacting our advertisers Interested in advertising? Tel: 01322 507817 www.dartfordliving.com Dartford Living 3

Dear Readers,A big March 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 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, Darent Valley Hospital, What If...

and Stephen Oliver Art Galleries, numerous health centres and various

locations at Bluewater including Coffee Republic.

The ‘Previous Editions’ section of the Dartford Living website (www.

dartfordliving.com) also includes electronic versions of Dartford Living

magazine. Additionally, if you email [email protected] 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 do this!

Until next time, Vijay (and Annie, Bhavesh, David, Dhiren, Elaine, Joanne, Ken, Kelly, Mark, Nickki, Peter, Richey and the rest of the fantastic Dartford Living volunteer team)

3

Editor’s Letter

Contents6-13................................................. What’s on14........................................... Usefull numbers 18...............................Getting Dartford Working20...........................................Wisdom Estates21.............................. Kent Befriending Service22................................... Jumping Jack Plaque23.................. Famous Author Visits local school 24-25............................. Stephen Oliver Gallery 28......................................... ........Kip McGrath29..........................Steve Cook - Double Glazing30...............................Comfy Cushion Company 36................Charity Focus - Parents Consortium37........................................ Banish The Blues 37................Darent Valley Hospital - A thank you 38....................................................Auto News39...............................Tips for a small business40..............................................Sudoku41..............................................Gardening Tips42....................................Basketball in Dartford 43..................From Princes Park to Old Trafford43.........................................Sporting Comment44........................Interview with Claire Sweeney45.................................................Competition

AdvertisingWe offer amazing value advertising with adverts starting from just £26 per month. The advertising deadline for the next issue is 15th March

All enquiries

David ShaffordMagazine/ Website design and [email protected]


4 Please mention Dartford Living when contacting our advertisers 4 Please mention Dartford Living when contacting our advertisers Interested in advertising? Tel: 01322 507817 www.dartfordliving.com Dartford Living 5

Lose Weight and Get Fit

First class FREE with this ad!Just cut it out and bring it with you.

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Class TimesLocationAcacia HallHigh Street

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Index of Advertisers

Interested in advertising? Tel: 01322 507817 www.dartfordliving.com 5

ACCOUNTANTS, FINANCE & LEGALConradi Morrison & Co .....................................................2Lynton & Co ........................................................................5

BUILDERS, DECORATORS ROOFING, KITCHENS & WINDOWS4k Building Services.........................................................47A Baines & Son Roofing.....................................................34Claremont Decorative Services ..................................46John Hargreaves Building.................................................. 39 P Clark .................................................................38Steve Cook - Double Glazing ...............................................16SJC Fencing ......................................................................19MSB Conversions ..............................................................24

CLEANING/DRY CLEANERSEcoClean ...........................................................................25

COSMETIC, BEAUTY & HEALTHDia Wipes .............................................................17Frenchy’s Beauty ...............................................................39Persona Cosmetic Mediciine ..............................................31

EDUCATIONKip McGrath ....................................................................285

ELECTRICIANSAES Electricians ..............................................................4

ESTATE AGENTSGPS Lettings ...................................................................17Wisdom Estates .............................................................33

FASHIONAhadi Fashion .............................................................23

GARAGES & VEHICLE SERVICESShenley Road Garage .........................................................35Chipsaway................................................................48

JEWELLERYBradleys ...........................................................................34

LOCKSMITHS/HOME SECURITYDartford Locksmith ............................................................39

LEGAL SERVICESDartford Legal .................................................................19

MEMBER OF PARLIMENTGareth Johnson ............................................................7

MUSIC/DANCE & SPORTS/FITNESSAdult Dance Classes..........................................................12

Dartford Bootcamps ...........................................................4Peaches Personal Training .....................................................4Monkey Music ...........................................................7Roundel Recording Studio ...................................................24

NURSERYDimples....................................................................... 23 OPTICIANSLinklater Opticians ............................................................16

PICTURE FRAMINGCraft Frames ............................................................35

PLASTERERSCraig Baker ..................................................................34

PLUMBERS/BATHROOMS/TILINGNightingale Bathrooms.......................................................35

.TheatreOrchard Theatre...............................................................47


...local events, clubs & groups

Parent & Toddler Groups (Term Time)

Mondays 1:15pm - 2:30pm. Brent Methodist Church, St Vincents Road, Dartford.

9:15am - 11:00am. St Anselms Church Community Centre, Dartford. Contact Julie on 01322 291092.

Messy Makers:10am-11am, and 3.45pm-4.45pm - an hour of messy play and creative activities for 2-5 year olds. St Mary’s

Greenhithe Church Hall, London Road, Greenhithe. £3.50 per child. 07851 150593 or email [email protected].

Tuesdays

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

Little Fishes: 12 - 2pm, Net Church, East Hill, Dartford, £2 per family including all snacks and drinks. John Atkins: 01322 272649.

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

Sticky Fingers, 9.30-11.30 am £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

Wednesdays9.30am -11.30am. The Salvation Army, 66 Hythe Street, Dartford. Please call us on (01322) 288434 for further information.

ThursdaysThe 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.

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 - facebook.com/ToeRags

Fridays

9.30-11am 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

9.30-11am Toerags Toddler Group - Adult education centre, Dartford £3 per Child - £1 Non Walkers - facebook.com/ToeRags

9.30-11.30 Carer & Toddler Group, St Mary’s Church Hall, Stone Place Rd, Greenhithe. Jeanne 01322 380322 [email protected]

1-3pm Gigglekidz, Tree Estate Community Centre on Cedar Road - £2 Per Child

Saturdays

Daddy and Me 9.30.-11.30am 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

Toddler Music & Rhyme SessionsMONDAYS Jo Jingles Music and Movement classes, Holy Trinity Church Hall, High Street, Dartford. Booking needed - phone Gill on 07525 865030. Other days/venues available.MONDAYS 10:30am - 11:00am & Friday 2:15pm - 2:45pm at Dartford Library - Baby Bounce & Rhyme TimeTUESDAYS 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/TIME ON THURSDAYSTUESDAYS 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.

Where to go locally...


Gareth Johnson, Member of Parliament for Dartford, will be available to meet with constituents on the following dates:

Bluewater, DA9 9ST (4.00 pm – 7.00 pm - Appointment required)Friday 6th February

Friday 6th March

Open Surgery (No appointment necessary),

- Thursday 29th January, 4.30 pm to 5.30 pm, Sutton Court, 12 Main Road, Sutton at Hone, DA4 9EX

- Thursday 12th February, 5.00 pm to 6.00 pm, Darenth Hall, Ladywood Road, DA2 7LL

- Thursday 26th February, 10.00 am to 12.00 pm, Sainsbury’s Dartford, DA1 2HL

- Saturday 21st March, 10.00 am to 12.00 pm, Sainsbury’s Dartford, DA1 2HL

If you would like to meet Gareth at one of his regular appointment based surgeries in the future, please contact him at gareth.johnson.

[email protected] or telephone 020 7219 7047.


YOGA & MEDITATION CLASSESEvery Thursday from 10.30am

to 12.00pm at Peppercorns, 3 Orchard Street, Dartford, Kent, DA1 2DF. For more information please call The

Hope Group on 07580 615206.Dartford 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. Phone Ester 01322 220458 or email:

[email protected]

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

LITTLE TIGERS - KARATE FOR 3, 4 & 5 YEAR OLDS Sundays

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

Call Saj on 07903 513104

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

Dartford Gymnasticsis 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 [email protected]

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 [email protected].

Erith Youth RugbySunday 10:45-12:00, Sussex Road Erith.

Ages 4-16 welcome 07903 590515

Dartford Orienteering Club For more details see www.dfok.co.uk

Where to go locally... ...local events, clubs & groups

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

Hold regular meetings in The Meeting Place,

The Orchard Shopping Centre, Dartford. Details from Steve Alpe 01322 284491 or

email [email protected]

Our Club presents a programme of workshops and demonstrations in a very informal and friendly atmosphere. We meet on the last Thursday of the 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

[email protected]

SHORNE FLOWER ARRANGERS

Dartford & District Stamp ClubGUITARS 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

[email protected]


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.

RSPCA KENT, NORTH WEST BRANCH - FREE MICRO CHIPPINGRSPCA Kent, North West Branch, offers free micro chippings for all domestic animals at its clinic at 37 Gordon Road, Dartford, Kent, DA1 2LX on the 1st Saturday in each month, 10am to 12.30pm. The service is free but donations are appreciated. For more information please visit www.rspca-kentnorthwest.org.uk.

ALL DIRECTIONS is a community learning organisation for adults and young people aged 16+

with physical, learning and mental health difficulties. For more information, attend a taster session or visit our community lunch club, contact Caroline on 01322 440482 or

07570 347612

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

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

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.

MODERN LINEDANCING CLASSES

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/

The DartfordChess ClubThe 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

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

[email protected]

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 Floral Club


Would you like to promote a local activity on the “Where to go locally...” page? If so email your suggestions to [email protected]

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

BABY SENSORY CLASSESBaby Sensory classes are designed to support your baby’s

development in their first year, along with having lots of fun! Sessions run on Tuesdays in Dartford - 9.40am & 10.50am 6

months to walking, 11.55am & 1pm birth to 6 months. Please prebook your place to avoid disappointment. Call Sarah on 07786 448701 or go on to www.babysensory.co.uk to book

your free taster session.

Kent Exiles American Football Clubwww.kentexiles.co.uk.

Coach Martin - 07944 730634. All ages from 7 years to adult welcome

Dartford Art GroupWe meet every Thursday evening from 7.30-9.30pm.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 [email protected] or ring

07940 836672

Monkey Music!More than 10,000 babies and children regularly attend classes at Monkey Music and you can book your FREE class now. Join us at: - Albany Park Baptist Church, Bexley (Tuesday

mornings) - Baptist Church, Eynsford (Thursday mornings) - Spital Street Methodist Church, Dartford (Friday mornings).

Fun, age-specific, classes for children (3mths - 4 years). To book call: 01322 862021 or Email: bexley.dartford@

monkeymusic.co.uk.

Wednesdays & Fridays 9:30am-10:30amAt Europa Gymnastics Centre

For more information please contact Emma:[email protected]

TEL: 07932 621415 www.samadhi-yoga.co.uk

YOGA WITH EMMA

The Rotary Club of the North DownsThey meet at the Holiday Inn, Black Prince, Thursday evenings 7:30pm for 7:45pm for Dinner and fellowship. For details phone

07759 863836.

The National Women’s RegisterThe 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.

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.

DE-STRESSINGfor Mind, Body and Soul RELAXATION WORKSHOPS/SESSIONS

Mindfulness/Meditation, CBT, EFT

Now also holding sessions for nerves, driving tests/interviews etc.www.janetslifeoachingvpweb.co.uk

tel:01322311415/07837413229

[email protected]

Where to go locally... ...local events, clubs & groups

TONI MOUNT HISTORY CLASSESThe 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


PAVILION PLAYERSIs an amateur dramatics group based at the Joydens Wood Community Centre, Wilmington, Kent. We

meet every Tuesday from 8-10pm. For more informa-tion please visit www.facebook.com/pavilionplayers or call us on 07505 006539. Alternatively just pop

down on a Tuesday night! Everyone welcome!

WHEELCHAIR EPEE FENCINGWheelchair 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

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: Subs £2.50 per week. Annual membership £6 (payable in January )

Tel: 01322 287356 or 020 8304 6414

DARTFORD LADIES PROBUS CLUBA group of retired ladies meet locally for lunch on the 4th Wednesday of each

month, paying £13 each. 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

Who?Were you a student or teacher of Dartford Central, Dartford West Girls School, Dartford Technology College or Dartford

Science and Technology College?

What?Then some great news! We are having a reunion for all

former students and staff. Come and meet old friends, have a tour round the new school, have some cheese and wine, and also have the opportunity to be involved in the next exciting

phase of the school.

When?Tuesday 31st March 2015 from 6pm – 9pm

Where?Dartford Science and Technology College, Heath Lane,

Dartford, Kent, DA1 2LY. 01322 224309

RSVP tohttp://freeonlinesurveys.com/s.asp?sid=hm95eb97bmfp00x6

06417

Any Problems? [email protected]

North West Kent FamilyHistory Society

The Dartford Branch meet at the Technology College, Heath Lane, For more information

see www.nwkfhs.org.uk

DARTFORD LIONS CLUB1st Tuesday of every month

Dartford Conservative Club Spital Street, Dartford DA1 2DT. Meeting start at 20:00.

Further details call Cathy 01322 618640


NHS RETIREMENT FELLOWSHIPDartford & 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

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 [email protected]

...local events, clubs & groups

TEL: 01689 867358

COMING SOON YOUTH CLUB

ON COMMUNITY BUS

INGUNN ROAD, SWANSCOMBE

7PM-9PM

16TH JANUARY20TH FEBRUARY

20TH MARCH17TH APRIL15TH MAY19TH JUNE

Wii, Playstation, Arts/Crafts and plenty more activities...come along!

Where to go locally...


DARTFORD U3A (UNIVERSITY OFTHE 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.

Useful Numbers


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!!

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

Little Bright SparksFun phonics, literacy and

numeracy classes for 2-4 year olds. Classes held on Weds in

East Malling and Thurs in West Kingsdown £5.50 per class

07768 447657 for more infowww.facebook.com/littlebrightsparks

http://www.babysign.org.uk/

abc

+= COLUMBINE CHINA PAINTERS CLUB

meets on the 1st and 3rd Thursday each monthat 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.

LOCAL DOG TRAINING SCHOOL

Established for 36years - No Expensive coursesPuppies from 3months - Older dogs any age.Tel. Barbara for more details 01322 663956

We Need You



Dartford Library Opening Hours:Mon to Wed 8.30am - 6.00pm, Thurs 8.30am - 8.00pm, Fri 8.30am - 6.00pm, Sat 9:00am to 5:00pm Ashen Drive Library Opening Hours:Mon 2.00pm - 6.00pm, Tue 9.00am - 1.00pm, Thurs 2.00pm - 6.00pm, Fri 9.00am -1.00pm, Sat 10.00am - 2.00pmTemple Hill Library Opening Hours:Mon, Tues, Thurs and Fri 9.00am - 6.00pm, closed Wed & open Sat 10.00am - 2.00pm

Local Libraries24 Hour Kent Dementia Helpline:0800 500 3014

Alcoholics Anonymous:08457 697 555

Citizens Advice Bureau:01322 224686

Crimestoppers:0800 555111

Darent Valley Hospital: 01322 428100

Dartford Borough Council:01322 343434

Dartford Police Station (non urgent crime):01622 690690

EDF Energy Networks Emergencies/Powercuts Helpline:0800 028 0247

Gareth Johnson MP 020 7219 7047

Gatwick Airport Enquiries:08700 002468

Heathrow Airport Enquiries:08700 000123

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

National Gas Emergency Service:0800 111 999

National Rail Enquiries:08457 484950

NHS Direct: 111 (free of charge from landline or mobile

NSPCC Child Protection Helpline:0808 800 5000

Report a non-urgent crime:Dial 101 or go online www.reportacrime.kent.police.uk

RSPCA Kent, North West Branch Helpline:01322 286720

Samaritans:08457 909090

Thames Water Leak Line:0800 714614

The National Pandemic Flu Service:0800 1 513 100

West Kent NHS Helpline:

0800 0 850850

LATE NIGHT CHEMISTS

BOOTS BLUEWATER:01322 624780

OPEN MON-SAT 9am TILL MIDNIGHT. SUN 11am TILL 5pm

ASDA GREENHITHE:01322 374100

OPEN MON-SAT 8.30am TILL 10pm. SUN 11am TILL 5pm

Useful Information

Local Sports Clubs Bexley Rugby Club01322 550142 or www.bexleyrfc.co.ukDartford Ladies Hockey ClubDawn Hall (Secretary) 07793 777250Dartford Ju Jitsu ClubMondays, Dartford Girls

Grammar School, Shepherds Lane. 6.30-8.00 Juniors, 8.00-10.00 Seniors.1st session free www.dartfordjujitsu.co.ukDartford Sharks Basketball ClubTim Dickson - 07855 692527.Dartford Volleyball ClubGraham - 01322 275290 or 07984 106134.Stone Lodge Indoor

Bowling Club 01322 274111.VCD Table Tennis ClubEric Jenkins - 0208 3038312. ‘Play & pay’, 9 hole, par 3 golf course on Dartford Football Club’s Princes Park site, managed by the Club. Members subscribing annually to play the course have formed themselves into a small golf club:- PRINCES PARK GOLF CLUB. Contact: Mr. Pat

Coleman, Secretary 01322 863730. email: [email protected] Ashes Badminton ClubMondays, Dartford Technology College, Heath Lane. 7.30-9.30. Jacqui 07764 182854.Dartford Valley RFC - http://www.pitchero.com/clubs/darenthvalleyrfc/

Interested in advertising? Tel: 01322 507817 www.dartfordliving.com 11Interested in advertising? Tel: 01322 507817 www.dartfordliving.com 15




STEVE COOKDOUBLE GLAZING SERVICING,REPAIRS AND INSTALLATION

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Featured

In the five years since I became MP for Dartford, I have been lucky enough to visit many places in the constituency, including a huge range of businesses. I have been fascinated to discover that we have a variety of firms, from coffee roasters and beer makers, to mine disposal experts and specialist movers here in Dartford. It is businesses like these which contribute to a successful economy here and have led to unemployment falling by more than two-thirds since 2010. The number of new businesses being launched has also grown substantially in the past five years and it is these start-ups, as well as the long-established companies, which are creating new jobs and apprenticeships in the area. In Dartford, there are double the number of apprenticeships available now than there were in 2010 and during a visit to Beck and Pollitzer last month, I met some of the apprentices. This company has its world headquarters in Dartford and employs around 500 people in its group. Beck and Pollitzer has the annual job of taking delivery of the Norwegian Christmas Tree gift in the north of England, transporting it to Dartford, storing it overnight in the town and then putting it up in Trafalgar Square. Enriching our skills base locally is essential and the opening in Dartford of the first UTC in Kent will help provide the engineers of the future. Last year saw a record number of new businesses in Dartford and these new enterprises will soon be joined by Paramount, who have recognised the huge potential in the area by committing themselves to the new theme park on the Swanscombe Peninsula. Another company which has been recruiting locally, including many of our up-and-coming young people, is DPD, which is an express parcel service. DPD has recently opened a new state-of-the art depot in Dartford. On a recent visit there it was a pleasure to meet the staff, who are enjoying working hard for a company which is a market leader in its field.

Dartford will always have a heavy reliance on London’s economy but increasingly businesses are choosing to make Dartford one of the most exciting places to live and work. It is no coincidence that now more people from London have decided to make Dartford their home than anywhere else outside of the capital. Whilst there is more to be done to improve the business opportunities in Dartford, it is a very positive time for Dartford and I, for one, am extremely proud of the contribution local businesses make to our town.

Getting Dartford Workingby Gareth Johnson, MP for Dartford


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Dar t f o rd Ama teu r Ope ra t i c and D rama t i c Soc ie t y (DAODS) are starting to feel the ‘heat’ as they enter the last few weeks of rehearsals for their latest show. The y a r e pe r f o rm ing Ho t M i kado a t Hea th f i e l d s Hall in April and the cast have been enjoying working o n t h i s u p d a t e d v e r s i o n o f s u c h a w e l l - k n o w n piece. The Gilbert and Sull ivan original, The Mikado, opened in London in 1885 and ran for 672 performances. Just over 20 years after this, it became the first ever show produced by DAODS. The Society was formed in 1906 but their first production was of The Mikado, in Apr i l 1907, a t the Conser va t i ve Ha l l i n Sp i ta l S t r e e t , D a r t f o r d . H o t M i k a d o u s e s t h e s a m e characters, themes, song tit les and storyl ine but has updated the sett ing and the numbers to the 1940’s.“People who know Gilbert and Sullivan, and in particular The M ikado , w i l l s ee much t ha t t he y r ecogn i se in Hot Mikado”, says Director David Street. “I suppose the b iggest change that people wi l l not ice is that the songs have been updated from the comic opera s t y le o f the o r ig ina l to incorpora te more modern forms of music such as blues, swing and gospel. It’s

a real ly fun, toe-tapping show with lots of dancing for the cast to get involved with.” David is Directing and Choreographing the show for DAODS and it is his first time working with the Society. “I was only too happy to take on the job when they approached me. It’s always exciting to work with a new group of people and everyone here has been so welcoming. The cast have been working really hard over the last few months and I can’t wait to see how it starts to come together in the weeks ahead.” The Societyperforms a range of different shows including both musicalsand plays. They’ve also performed at least one show each year at The Orchard Theatre in Dartford, since it opened in 1982. After Hot Mikado the group will start rehearsing for their nextshow at The Orchard, which will be Boogie Nights in October 2015. ·

Hot Mikado is being performed from 21st – 25th April at Heathfields Hall, Dartford. Tickets: 07516 253638 or daods.ticketsource.co.uk

If you are interested in joining DAODS then send an emailto [email protected] For more information on this release or DAODS, email [email protected] or call 07984 863642.

DAODS goes back to its roots with new spin on Gilbert and Sullivan classic


Featured Local Business

M A K E YO U R W I S E S T M OV E TO DAY !Wisdom Estates are your local Independent Estate Agents whohave a real passion for sell ing homes. They believe in treating all their clients with fairness and honesty,and these are the core values on which they base their business.

Located within the heart of Dartford, Wisdom Estates are proud to serve the local Community, [however] i t is worth ment ioning that they a lso cover manyother areas within London and throughout the South East. This is due to the fact that a large proportion of New Instructions are often the result of personal recommendations from both Vendors and Purchasers, who are highly impressed with the personalised, friendly and professional service they received.

Wisdom Estates are delighted with their consistently growingpositive reputation, which is due to their commitment of a l w a y s e n s u r i n g e x c e l l e n t C u s t o m e r S e r v i c e . Wisdom Estates believe that this is what has led tomany customers leaving exceptionally good feedback, which canbe viewed on their website (www.Wisdom-Estates.co.uk/Testimonials). These Customer Testimonials are some of the best you could hopeto find, and Robert Wisdom (Managing Director of Wisdom Estates)is very proud to publish these on their website, as well aspublishing them on Wisdom Estates’ social media pages.

You might expect that this exceptionally high level of service wouldresult in high fees, but Wisdom Estates only charge a standard 1%Sole Agency Selling Fees, which has proved to save vendors who have switched from a local competitor hundreds, if not thousands of pounds. Furthermore, there are absolutely no extra costs or hidden fees, which some unscrupulous Estate Agents try to charge. Marketing consists of superior quality photography, extensive exposure across all of the major property portals (including Rightmove, Zoopla and PrimeLocation), alongside advertising within the News Shopper

and viathe Wisdom Estates bespoke website.

The Directors and staff of Wisdom Estates regularly support local charities and organisations, and in 2014 this communityinvolvement led to a meeting with Cheryl Fergison (best known forher role as Heather Trott from BBC’s Eastenders). Cheryl visitedthe offices of Wisdom Estates to thank them for being the first business

to sponsor underprivileged children at her School of Creative Arts.This meeting led to a firm friendship with the actress, and WisdomEstates have since supported a number of charitable events run byCheryl Fergison, especially those raising funds and awareness,for CHYPS, who provide dedicated care for children with life-threatening and life-limiting conditions.

The Mayor of Dartford’s Charity Appeal also continues to be a veryimportant Community Project, and Wisdom Estates have proudlysponsored and attended various events held by the Mayor. Theyalso held their own Charity Fun Day, which the Mayor and his wifeattended Furthermore, Wisdom Estates are also very proudof their association with Dartford Football Club, and alongside advertising at the club they also offer discounted selling fees to all of the staff, players and supporters.

The children of the borough haven’t been forgotten either, as forthe past two years Wisdom Estates have donated the Christmastrees at both Oakfield and Temple Hill Primary Schools, and thisyear have plans to donate funds to another local school to helpwith their summer fete.

So, if you are thinking of selling and would like to use anEstate Agent that is proud to give something back to thecommunity, and who also offers an outstanding and traditionalpersonal service, without paying u n n e c e s s a r i ly h i g h s e l l i n gfees, please call: 01322 272 144 or e-mail; dartford@wisdom-e s t a t e s . c o . u k a n d ‘ M a k e Yo ur Wi s e s t Mo v e Tod a y ’

Interested in advertising? Tel: 01322 507817 www.dartfordliving.com 21 20 Please mention Dartford Living when contacting our advertisers Interested in advertising? Tel: 01322 507817 www.dartfordliving.com Dartford Living 21

Lonely and isolated? You don’t have to be…….

Acco rd ing t o t he Campa ign t o End Lone l i ness , t he re a re 800 ,000 peop le i n Eng land who a re constant ly lonely. Age UK in North Kent provides a Befr iending Serv ice which a ims to help reduce the lonel iness and iso la t ion fe l t by many people, both at home and within their local communit ies.

Beth fe l t sad and isolated af ter the death of her husband and moving to retirement l iving. Although she had family nearby she didn’t want to worry them about how she was feel ing. Despite having people her own age around her she found making new friends difficult and did not have the confidence to socialise and use the communal areas. Beth contacted us. Karen, the befriending coordinator visited Beth to find out a little more about her and how they could h e l p . K a r e n d i s c o v e r e d t h a t B e t h p a r t i c u l a r l y loved gardening and was a ta lented seamstress. Beth decided that she would like to try the befriending s e r v i c e . S h o r t l y a f t e r m e e t i n g B e t h , K a r e n

introduced her to befriending volunteer David. They got on ver y wel l and Dav id agreed to v is i t Beth regularly. They chatted about all sorts and enjoyed s t r o l l i ng r ound the ga rdens . Ve r y qu i ck l y Be th realised how much better she felt just chatting with David each week. She decided to put a not ice on the not ice board of fer ing to he lp wi th any smal l sewing jobs. This proved to be a blessing as many residents were soon knocking her door with requests and Beth soon found she had many new f r iends within the retirement home. When Karen next visited Beth the difference in her was amazing. Beth was very thankful for the se r v i ce bu t dec ided she no l onge r needed the support of befriending, however she stil l sees David occasional ly when her new busy schedule al lows!To volunteer with the West Kent Befriending Service, o r i f you wou ld l i ke a vo lunteer to v is i t you or you know someone we could help, please call 0800 048 4668.

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Local News Jumping Jack Plaque!

Dar t f o rd S ta t i on P la t f o rm where Ro l l i ng S tones ’ fr iendship was forged gets i ts own heri tage plaqueDartford Borough Council has unveiled a heritage plaque marking the spot where two teenage rail passengers with a shared passion for music struck up a conversation before going on to form the greatest rock and roll band in the world. The blue plaque has been installed on platform 2 at Dartford Station to mark the moment on 17th October 1961 when Mick Jagger met Keith Richards for the first time since primary school, and forged a friendship that resulted in the formation of the Rolling Stones the following year. Jagger was on his way to the London School of Economics carrying a pile of his favourite blues records and Richards was heading to Sidcup Art College with his beloved Hofner Cutaway guitar. The two struck up a conversation on platform 2 and the rest is history. Inviting the Mayor of Dartford, Councillor Avtar Sandhu MBE, and the current Head of Mick Jagger’s old school, John Oakes, to unveil the plaque, Council Leader Jeremy Kite said, “Platform 2 has a small but important role in pop music

history. I hope that in the years ahead many thousands of rail passengers will enjoy looking at the plaque and realising the part the station played in bringing The Rolling Stones together.” Dartford Borough Council has unveiled a number of plaques around the Borough over the past decade to celebrate famous residents, visitors and places. For a full list please visit www.dartford.gov.uk/heritage The next plaque unveiling will take place in Carrington Road, Dartford, in mid-March 2015. It will mark the spot where a V1 flying bomb fell in 1944, killing 10 people, causing injuries to 107 and damaging nearly 700 homes.

Fresh local ta lent wanted for t h e D a r t f o r d F e s t i v a l 2 0 1 5 Plans are underway for this year’s Dartford Festival and we’re looking for music acts and local dance schools & groups to appear on the main stage.

Singers, bands and dance groups will be given the chance to show off their talents at this year’s Dartford Festival in Central Park on 18 & 19 July. The lucky acts chosen will be following in the footsteps of Tank Trap, Dead Baby Birds and Prequels who shared the main stage last year with the likes of Scouting For Girls and The Beat and gained themselves lots of new fans. Each of the acts will be allocated a short slot on the Saturday or Sunday to wow the crowd. For the music acts, the Festival team will supply the backline – full drum kit, guitar and bass amps,

so each act will just need to bring their instruments, keyboards, leads and sticks. There will only be five minutes changeover time between the slots so no sound checks will be permitted.Music and performances must be suitable for the Festival’s family audience. Representatives from Dartford Youth Council will be getting involved again this year, helping to shortlist the lucky performers. To be in with a chance of playing at the Festival, email your details and relevant YouTube links to [email protected] by midday on Wednesday 8 April 2015. Successful applicants will be notified in early May. Councillor Jeremy Kite, Leader of the Council, said, “Once again we’re looking forward to welcoming some local acts to the Festival stage and helping them showcase their talents to a wider audience. The bands featured last year were fantastic and well-received by the crowds. They had a great time and won themselves lots of new fans in the process.”

Dartford Festival 2015

Interested in advertising? Tel: 01322 507817 www.dartfordliving.com 23 22 Please mention Dartford Living when contacting our advertisers Int 23

Dimples Day Nursery,Green Street Green Road, Darenth, Kent, DA2 7HT

TEL: 01322 285885Email: [email protected]

website: www.dimplesnursery.co.uk

If you’re inspirational, passionate, caring and love the outdoors you may be just what we are looking for. To join our large, busy, outstanding children’s day nursery in Darenth please email your CV. Vacancies:- Nursery Nurse F/T 40 hrs p/w Level 3 or above- PT Lunchtime assistant 15 hrs p/w- End of Day Assistant 11.25 hrs p/w- Apprenticeship- Holiday Club Play Worker

Full details of all vacancies can be found on our website.www.dimplesnursery.co.uk.Please email CVs to [email protected]

C h i l d r e n a t H o r t o n K i r b y C h u r c h o f E n g l a n d Primary School were very lucky last week as they received a visit from the famous author Brian Moses.Brian Moses has sold over 1 million poetry books and anthologies and even wrote a poem for the Queen’s 80th birthday.

On the 5th February 2015, Brian visited Horton Kirby Primary School in the evening to work with children and their families. Famil ies had been special ly chosen and invited to the event and were able to l isten to Brian perform fol lowed by having a go at wri t ing a poem based on embarrassing family moments. It was a real eye opener for teachers that a t tended I can te l l you!

On Friday 6th February, the rest of the school got a chance to meet him. He uses lots of percussion and movement to per fo rm h is poems and rea l l y invo lved the ch i ldren wi th the read ings dur ing a who le schoo l assembly. He then went on to do wr i t ing workshops w i th KS2 ch i ld ren , who wereinsp i red to wr i te poems o f the i r own. Some o f these poems will be available to view on the Horton K i rb y b l og pages ( h t t p : / /www.ho r t onk i rb ycesch .org/#!class-pages/c9di ) so feel free to have a read.

One paren t , who a t tended the even ing sess ion , said; ‘That was fantastic - we really enjoyed writing as a fami l y ’ . Whi le comments f rom the ch i ld ren ranged from “That was so exciting and fun!” to “He scared me when he hit the drum during The Snake Hotel poem!”Overall, our Brian Moses visit was a huge success. Ch i l d ren have been i nsp i r ed t o bo th r ead and wr i te poe t r y, fami l i es have been ab le to c rea te something together and teachers have a wealth of e x c i t i n g n e w i d e a s t o u s e i n t h e c l a s s r o o m .

Author Brian Moses visits Horton Kirby CofE Primary School




REL have a vacancy for casual Reservation/Sales staff until 30th September 2015: 3 hours per day initially – Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday: Based at Sidcup.

Potential for further hours April to September by arrangement. Cover on an ad hoc basis.

Please send CV in writing only to Director Road Express Limited, 233a Main Road, Sidcup, Kent DA14 6QS. Email [email protected]


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; self-esteem 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.

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.

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 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.

What does a typical Kip McGrath lesson entail?We are open during term times on the 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.

How do I book an initial assessment?Yo u c a n e m a i l u s o n : d a r t f o r d @ k i p - m c g r a t h . c o m o r p h o n e o n : 0 1 3 2 2 2 8 5 6 8 5 .We look forward to hearing from you.

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I’ve been in the double-glazing business for over 30 years and so it’s fair to say I’m quite well known in the area. So nine times out of ten when my phone rings it’s either someone with a double-glazing related problem who has seen my ad in Dartford Living or someone to whom I have been recommended by a friend that has previously used my services. Either way, and as with all things associated with double-glazed windows, doors and conservatories, I’m pretty sure I can solve their problem. The fact is you can extend the life of your double-glazing significantly with some relatively simple and cost effect repairs or maintenance, thereby avoiding the cost and disruption of complete replacement. At this time of year, during the cold weather, I’m often asked about draughts coming through what were once snug-fitting windows. It’s a typical problem that comes with ageing double-glazing, but can usually be sorted by upgrading the gaskets or changing worn hinges.

Other common problems that can be easily sorted include doors that you have to wrestle with to close or lock, sealed glazing units that have misted up or cracked, leaking conservatories and coloured fanlights that have faded and lost their sparkle. All of these things I can service, clean and repair to bring them back to life. Sometimes I’m asked to change all the glass in a house to a more energy efficient type, along with some simple upgrades that wil l bring windows up to modern day standards – all for a fraction of the cost of replacing them. Fitting cat flaps and letterboxes, replacing handles, and changing locks for people who have just moved house are other regular requests. So for a free consultation or to discuss anything and everything double-glaz ing re lated please feel f ree to get in touch. You can see my advert on page 16.

For everything and anything double-glazingBy Steve Cook



When Julia Osborne learned that her hours were being cut to a three day week last year she decided she had to do something to supplement her income. Since secondary school Julia has been a keen seamstress and for her wedding made the bridesmaid’s dress, waistcoats for the groom and groomsmen and outfits for herself and her mum. When her daughters were young she made curtains and blinds for family, friends and often friends of friends.Julia decided to make something that would make an ideal Christmas gift, not too expensive but well-made and as a result The Comfy Cushion Company was born.

As it was nearing Christmas, Julia decided to attend a few school fayres and found this to be very profitable; her cushions sold well and she took lots of orders. Another outlet which has proved to be very successful is Facebook; Julia’s Cocker Spaniel design has been a best seller with customers ordering up to four at a time.The Comfy Cushion Company boasts a large range of designer fabrics which are sourced locally and online. Popular designs include campervans, dogs, pandas, and Frozen and Minion designs were a big hit at school fayres last year! If you can’t see a fabric you like Julia is happy to source something especially for you.

New for this year are embroidered cushions which can be made to order with a name or design of your choice. These make lovely gifts for Mother’s Day, birthday or wedding presents or for someone moving into their new home.All cushions are washable and come with a safe polyester fibre filling. Prices range from £5.00 to £15.00 and postage is available.

Julia’s daughter Emily is her trusted assistant and saleswoman and brings along her handmade Sock Monkeys which usually sell out at each event! What started out as an idea to make an extra bit of money has now turned into a part-time job for Julia who is booked to attend lots of Craft Fayres including her first Getthrifty Craft Fayre on 7th March and she hopes to attend more Christmas Fayres during 2015. Julia is always looking for new outlets and would be interested to hear from anyone holding a fayre or even small shop owners who might like to stock some of her cushions. She would love to give up work one day and open her own shop selling cushions.

You can see Jul ia’s ful l range of cushions on her F a c e b o o k p a g e a t h t t p s : / / w w w. f a c e b o o k . c o m /Thecomfycushionco, contact her at [email protected] or visit her stall at Getthrifty Craft Fayre on 7th March.

Local Crafts

The article provided by Getthrifthy crafts fairs, who organise craft fairs in Kent. . For more information visit thier Facebook page www.facebook.com/thriftyfairs

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Hello, it's lovely to meet you, I'm a robot, and my name is Max. I'm going to share an activity with you, but first a few safety facts. Sometimes a task might be dangerous, so you really have to take care. Please promise you won’t play around with this stuff, unless an adult is there. Follow the instructions I’ve written, and if you get stuck then please ask. I’m happy to help, just send me a mail, I do love a puzzling task.

By MicroHackers - A Dartford Edtech Startup

Tools and equipment: • Scissors • Sellotape

www.microhackers.co.uk [email protected]

Hovering Spacecraft

Instructions: 1. To make yourself a spacecraft that hovers in the air. 2. Grab yourself a shoebox, without the shoes in there. 3. Put the shoebox on its side, the long one, not the short. 4. Tie a paperclip with thread, to give the taut support. 5. Draw yourself a spacecraft, and with scissors cut it out. 6. Now tape the paperclip on it, it wont hover there without. 7. Put a magnet on the box, and hold your craft below. 8. Now tape the thread inside the box, and then just let it go!

Max's Makerspace

Materials: • 1 x Shoebox • 1 x Paperclip • 1 x Piece of thread • 1 x Piece of card • 1 x Magnet • 1 x Pencil


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An Exhibition of Local ArtistsFriday 6th - Friday 27th March 2015Peter Blake Gallery, in Dartford LibraryCurated by Charlotte JohnsonMon - Fri (except Thurs) 8.30am - 6pmThurs 8.30am-8pmSat 9am-5pm

@dartford_networkdartfordartsnetwork


Charity Focus Each month we will be featuring a local charity. If you represent a charity and would like to be featured please email [email protected]

The Parents Consortium is a charity providing services to disabled children, young people and their families living in the Dartford, Gravesham and Swanley areas of Kent.

We encourage families to become members to access our help and we have 350 parents registered as members of our consortium. All of these will have a child with a disability. As a local charity we need to raise £1.2 million in order to offer support and advice to families and play schemes for the children. The children we support will typically have one or multiple learning difficulties, complex health needs, physical or sensory impairments, challenging behaviour, cerebral palsy, Downs Syndrome, Autism or ADHD. They may also be wheelchair users.We have just set up a new public appeal to support our play schemes that we offer disabled children, both at our base at Allsworth Court and at local leisure centres across the three areas that we serve.Disabled children need better play scheme provision and more opportunities to interact with other children. The families and carers will have a little respite from the daily cycle of “constant care”.More children will be able to access the Leisure Centre’s equipment, stretching them to their full potential. They will be able to join in with ball games, trampolining, team ball games, table tennis football swimming and outings. Things that other children take for granted. Ensuring that young people and adults can all socialise, play and be part of a community together enables them to gain a greater awareness of and sensitivity to the needs of others.

O u r s t a f f a r e t r a i n e d t o p r o v i d e a n e x c i t i n g a n d s t i m u l a t i n g t i m e f o r a l l t h e c h i l d r e n .

Above all the children have fun, learn new skills and make f r iends in a safe and fr iendly envi ronment.

The three areas we serve are also recognised as being in the top 10% nationally for deprivation and poverty. This means that families can not pay for play and activities for their disabled child and need our support. Most have additional high support needs related to poverty, discrimination, social isolation and non working households.

In addition to the play schemes we will also offer the children contact outside of their schools with after school clubs, helping them to develop confidence and life skills with the community. We currently operate a Monday and Tuesday bi-weekly afterschool club for children with high level special needs and weekly clubs on Wednesdays and Thursdays. An additional afterschool club is held in Northfleet each week.

Parents Consortium does not currently have funding for play schemes or after school clubs from April 2015.

In the past we have received grant funding from Kent County Council, but this year KCC has put out a tender out for inclusive playschemes. This may result in a reduced number of children that will have access to this playscheme than in previous years and we hope to capture these children within this appeal.

How can you help?

T h e a p p e a l c a n b e f o u n d o n l i n e a t h t t p s : / / w w w . j u s t g i v i n g . c o m / p l a y s c h e m e so r b y t e x t - Tex t PCPS15 £3 o r £5 t o 70070 .

You can a lso ca l l the o f f i ce on 01322 668501 a n d w e c a n t a k e d o n a t i o n s o v e r t h e p h o n e .

For more information on the parents consortium their website iswww.parentsconsortium.org.uk


Our thanks to all our volunteers who help in all sorts of ways; meet and greeting, office work, on the wards at mealtimes and helping with our dementia buddy

scheme. Keeping people’s minds alert and active while in hospital is so important. Chaplaincy volunteers who help to give spiritual comfort; our Governors who are the voice of the community not forgetting Valley Park Radio volunteers who help bring a bit of cheer, through radio, to patients in bed.

Our thanks to our fundraising volunteers and organisations that have raised money to help our hospital to introduce some highly specialised equipment which continue to make such a difference to the lives of people with serious conditions. Charitable support also means we can introduce items like special rehabilitation chairs to support people who cannot move their limbs because of a stroke or accident, to the very latest technology to help diagnosis and treatment move faster. Comfort items are also important, it may be a request for a warm dressing gown for an elderly patient admitted with nothing and no one visits, to special memory picture books for our staff and volunteers to use to help calm dementia patients. Your support can and does make such a difference.

Over £30,000 was raised last year at our Stride 4 Life sponsored walk and funday with the help of 96 volunteers. The money will benefit our Cancer Fighting Fund which has enabled the hospital to introduce a ‘One Stop Breast Cancer Service.’ This year this event will be held on the 12th July and packs will be available from April 2015 so please give your support as well as enjoying the day out.

Hospital staff always aim to do their utmost for the patients in their care. Budgets are very tight within the NHS and the support given by the public is invaluable in allowing your hospital to offer more to patients.

We receive many thank you letters throughout the year and every single one matters. From the simple cards that say thank you for looking after me to the long letters filled with feeling, compassion and gratitude. Some are sad and some are happy but they all tell their own unique story. Fundamentally they are all individual and tell about each person’s experience of his/her time remembered in hospital, as a patient, carer or a visitor. What they have put into words stay with them a lifetime.

I only hope that all our volunteers and supporters feel as proud as I do, as they have been a part of making our local Hospital Trust the success it is.

Tracey CumminsFundraising & Voluntary Services Manager, Dartford and Gravesham NHS Trust

Thank you from Darent Valley Hospital

Banish the blues in 2015NHS Dartford, Gravesham and Swanley Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG), which plans and pays for most of the area’s health services, is urging people with depression to seek help in 2015. The CCG’s clinical lead for mental health, Dr Elizabeth Lunt, said: “The beginning of a new year can be quite depressing for many. The dark mornings and dreary days can make a low mood worse. And when post-Christmas bills are added to the mix, some people have difficulty coping.” She added: “It is unrealistic for all of us to be happy all of the time and low moods are part of the human experience. But depression is an illness which needs to be treated.” Depression has many symptoms including sadness, hopelessness and low moods that can last a long time. Other symptoms can include: • Getting little or no enjoyment from life, particularly from things that you used to enjoy.• Lack of motivation, even for small everyday tasks such as

housework. • Low self-esteem and feelings of worthlessness.• Feeling anxious. • Irregular sleeping patterns. This can involve sleeping too much or too little or waking too early and failing to get back to sleep. • Poor memory and difficulty in concentration. • A change in appetite that can result in weight loss or weight gain. • Limited interest in friends, family or work.• Loss of interest in sex.

It can also lead to physical symptoms such as aches and pains. Dr Lunt, who works at The Oaks, Swanley, said: ““Anyone experiencing depression should talk to their GP. Men can be particularly reluctant to talk about their problems but by making that first step you can change your life for the better.”

The Live It Well website www.liveitwell.org.uk has a range ofinformation, services and activities near you that can help beat depression.


2015 BMW 1 Series – BMW has given its entry-level 1 Series range a mild face-lift with revised front and rear styling, upgrades to its infotainment system and options list, a new range of three-cylinder diesel engines and revised four-cylinder units. The entry-level model will be the 116d, which gets a three-cylinder 1.5-litre unit producing 114bhp (94g/km). There are also three 2.0-litre diesels, badged 118d (148bhp and 110g/km to 99g/km), 120d (188bhp and 118g/km to 109g/km) and 125d (221bhp and 121g/km). The 1 Series’ cabin gets more modest upgrades, including a piano-black finish to the centre console. All 1 Series will now get single-zone climate control as standard, with the option of a dual-zone system, and the infotainment system has also been revised. BMW has confirmed that the three-door 118i SE starts at £20,245, while the five door version starts at £20,775. Other prices are yet to be announced, but will be available from this Spring. 2015 Audi RS3 Sportback – The new Audi RS3 Sportback will have a best-in-class 362bhp and a 0-62mph time of 4.3sec when it goes on sale this March. The RS3 Sportback is Audi’s five-seat, five-door performance hatchback. The RS3 is distinguished from other A3 models by its aggressive front styling, which includes a unique grille and LED headlights. It will be available in a five-door hatchback but could

also be seen as an RS3 saloon in the future. The RS3 is powered by a 2.5-litre five-cylinder engine. It produces 362bhp and 343lb ft, enough to give the RS3 Sportback a 0-62mph time of 4.3 seconds and a top speed of 155mph - which can be raised to 174mph on the options list. The RS3 comes well equipped, with leather sports seats, an Alcantara-covered, flat-bottomed steering wheel, unique instrument graphics, stainless steel pedals and Alcantara door trim, plus an MMI infotainment system. The RS3 is priced at £39,950, the same as the outgoing car. Vauxhall in-car connectivity – Vauxhall will preview its latest in-car technology at the March Geneva motor show, with a planned introduction to its line-up in the second half of the year. It’s the result of a collaboration with connectivity firm OnStar. The system includes various features including roadside assistance, 24-hour emergency assistance, wi-fi hotspot and vehicle data access through the company’s own smartphone app. The emergency assistance works by GPS satellites locating the car’s position when the emergency function is activated via the app, or when the car’s airbags are deployed. The vehicle’s data is then sent to one of OnStar’s emergency advisors, who can direct emergency services to the car’s exact location. Connection to the smartphone app also allows users to lock and unlock the car, request vehicle diagnostics information and monitor data such as engine oil condition and tyre pressures.

Dhiren’s Automotive NewsIn this edition we’ll look at few of the new models for 2015

Tips for small businessesBusiness andAutomotive


P. CLARK GENERAL BUILDERS

(EST. 1976)

All enquiries contact Paul:Tel: 01322 270951 Mob: 07985 457432

Email: [email protected]• Bathrooms • Kitchens • Flat Felt Roofing

• Carpentry • Guttering • Decorating • Tiled Roofing • Plumbing • Boiler Servicing • Fencing • Block Driveways •

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Tips for small businesses

If you are in business either trading through a company, or self-employed as a sole trader of partner, it is always important to keep your affairs legal. Persons who do not do this generally have difficulty sleeping at night and eventually lose more money than they gain.

There are plenty of ways in which you can legitimately minimise your tax liability, including claiming all available allowances and reliefs, claiming tax relief for expenditure incurred for business purposes and planning your affairs to keep your tax liabilities as low as possible within the law. However, deliberately/dishonestly evading tax is illegal and includes claiming tax relief for non-business expenses and failing to include all taxable income in your accounts or tax returns. Illegal acts may cause the Revenue to investigate the tax-payer and if it is proved, you will have to pay back taxes, interest on unpaid taxes, as well as penalties, which could be up to 100% of the tax which is due. You may also be required to go to a number of meetings with HMRC to discuss your tax affairs and this would cause considerable professional fees to be payable. All businesses should keep accurate records of income and

expenditure. They should retain all expense receipts and for non-receipted items, keep a note in a diary of the same, showing the date paid. Keep a note of all income and copies of all receipts and sales invoices rendered. It is also advisable to keep evidence of all non-business credit you have banked into your business bank account or private bank account, as in the case of an Inquiry with HMRC, they would want to know what these items were.

All records should be retained for six years after the end of the relevant tax year.In the case of expenses which are business and private related, such as motor expenses, you need to record all business mileage, showing the miles covered and the reason for the journey. At the end of the tax year, you would then be able to pro-rata all your motor expenses between business miles and private miles as long as you take a meter reading from the motor vehicle at the accounts’ year end. 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.

Each month Paul Conradi, Chartered Accountant at Conradi Morrison & Co, will be giving us his



FITNESS


SUDOKUHOW TO PLAY: Fill in the grid so that every row, every column and ev-ery 3x3 box contains the digits 1 through to 9, with no repetition. That’s all there is to it!

(Solution on page 46)

Coffee break

31 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

1 21 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

6 91 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

91 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

11 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

81 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

51 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

41 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

31 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

8 61 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

51 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

2 5 6 31 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

4 11 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

1 91 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

21 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

91 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

51 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Grid n°7173 medium

We have all the free sudokus you need! 400 new sudokus every week.

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

A number may not appear twice in the same row or in the same column or in any of the nine 3x3 subregions.

• All Locks Opened, Repaired or Replaced• UPVC, Timber or Metal Door Locks• Insurance Upgrades to BS3621• Residential & Commercial• Local Rates For Local People

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Interested in advertising? Tel: 01322 507817 www.dartfordliving.com 33Interested in advertising? Tel: 01322 507817 www.dartfordliving.com 33

FITNESS

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

A good way to prevent overeating at meal times is to snack between meals, but many people get this very wrong and end up increasing their food intake and eating the wrong things. Smaller meals mean smaller insulin spikes (which will cause fat storage) and a steadier blood sugar level. But without adopting the “8 meals a day” or “eat every 2 hours” type strategies which are simply inconvenient, if not impossible for many people, we need a way to get enough food in without resorting to 2-3 giant meals a day, or worse, half-starving yourself all day then scoffing 2,000 calories in the evening. So snacks are a great and convenient way to boost your calories/nutrition, stop overeating at meal times (because you won’t be so hungry and maintain more steady energy levels. Remember, the idea of a snack between meals is to take the edge off your hunger before your next meal, not to fill you up. Lots of people tend to have large snacks, almost the size of a ful l meal, so they’re no longer hungry. Make sure your snack is small, and won’t fill you up to the point you’re forcing your next meal down. Drink plenty of water to keep snacking lighter and make sure you’re actually hungry, not just thirsty.

Don’t snack on sugar! Again, one of the benefits of snacking is to keep energy and insulin levels steady and not spiking and falling all day long. So sweets, biscuits, cr isps, cakes, fruit, polystyrene (rice cakes), and weight management bars (you know the ones!) are all OUT !!In this instance, carbs are the enemy.Av o i d t h e m a n d o p t f o r p r o t e i n a n d f a t Some good snacks cou l d be t he f o l l ow ing :- Boiled egg - Handful of nuts and/or seeds - Tinned oily fish (mackerel, sardines etc…) - C o f f e e w i t h b u t t e r a n d / o r c o c o n u t o i l ( i n s t e a d o f m i l k ) [ * b e f o r e m i d d a y o n l y ]- A small portion of meat (20-50g of chicken, beef, fish etc…)

Follow these guidelines for your snacks and you should find you’ll be less hungry and won’t overeat so easily. Combined with the extra nutrition from healthy snacks and a good exercise routine, you should see improvements to your health and body shape soon enough.

A Guide to Snacking

Tips provided by Dobbies Garden World.

Gardening Tips for DecemberWith the approach of winter, a more leisurely pace can be taken in the

garden.

Flowers• Finish off pruning Roses• If not already done lift and divide congested clumps of Snowdrops while still in leaf• Prune back autumn flowering Clematis• Take the old flower heads off

winter flowering heathers and trim the plants to shape

• Feed Rose bushes• Mulch any areas of garden

missed in the autumn• Cut back Cornus and Salix stems

to encourage new growth next year

Vegetables• In mild areas plant early croppotatoes and shallots• Finish digging over ground

General Tasks• Construct or modify rock gardens• Keep greenhouse heaters

working efficiently• Re-pot houseplants into bigger

pots

• Plant hardy herbs e.g., Mint, Sage, Thyme

Lifestyle


Gardening Tips

(Solution on page 46)

Spring is on its way! the new season starts in earnest this month. Nature stirs into growth as theweather improves and the soil warms. Drifts of bright yellow Daffodils proclaim that spring isreally here. Follow the tips below to get your garden into shape for the months ahead.

Local Sports News


Basketball in Dartford

Many people in Dartford are unaware that the town has a local league basketball team that has been around for over 50 years. Dartford

Basketball Club was started at the Dartford Y.M.C.A. on West Hill in 1948/1949. They played in the Thames Basketball League, later to be known as the South Thames League. In the 1950’s they had three teams – Dartford ‘A’, Dartford ‘B’ and the Y.M.C.A Saints. In the summer of 1960, Joe Jagger (father of Mick Jagger) came to the Y.M.C.A to coach the team for one year.

Over the next few years the Club went from strength to strength and left the Y.M.C.A due to the fact the gymnasium size did not meet the requirements of the South Thames League. They then became known as Dartford Basketball Club. In 1975 they reached the finals of the ‘Hundred Cup’. The following season they entered the Medway League, where they are still playing today and managed to win the League and Cup on several occasions.

Our current teamsThe club currently has two senior men’s teams that play in the first and second divisions of the Medway league. This is a local league that comprises of teams coming from the Medway area and beyond in some cases. The age range of the men’s teams have a broad spectrum ranging from 17 up to over 40 for some players. A lot of our players have played at a good level in the past, some even making it to GB standard at a junior and cadet level. But for now we mainly play for fun as a lot of us have families and cannot commit to the hectic schedule of the national leagues!

We have a junior session that has been running for quite some time now. This caters for kids aged 11-17 and gives them a great understanding of the game. The coach is Canadian but is now teaching in the UK. Each session will focus on the fundamentals of basketball and by the time the kids are 17 they will be in a great position to advance their basketball future. As well as this we are also affiliated with another club, Franklin Basketball UK, which coach younger kids from the age of 5 upwards. This is an excellent programme coached by an ex New Zealand international who teaches the fundamentals of the game in a fun and interesting way for the youngsters.

And last but not least we have a newly formed women’s session that is now coming on leaps and bounds. Again we take women from around 15 upwards and of all abilities. This is coached by two of the men’s first team and we recently had our first friendly game that was a great success. There are rumours of a new ladies league being created in the Medway league and we hope to be part of that when it starts.

Links with our German friends For the last 40 years Dartford basketball club have maintained a link with German team, TG Hanau, from Hanau, just outside of Frankfurt. Hanau is twinned with Dartford and every Easter we take it in turns to either host the Germans in the Dartford or take the trip out to Hanau. This is a great tradition and still sees the older generations staying in contact with each other all these years later. The weekend consists of basketball and socialising and the length of time this has lasted only goes to show how great this bond is. So if you see a group of overly tall people around Dartford on the Easter weekend speaking in an odd accent, you now know who they are!

Home gamesOur home games are played at Becket Sport Centre (next to the Mick Jagger Centre) on Thursday evenings from 20:00. If you fancy watching a game feel free to come down and introduce yourself. A list of home games can be found on the fixtures page of our website.

New playersWe always welcome new members of all ages and abilities. Feel free to drop down to one of our sessions or contact us via our website.

FA Trophy 1st Round

13th Dec, 3.00pm(TBC)

Braintree26th Dec, TBCpm

Bav’s Sporting Comment

Upcoming events in March include: 1: Football - League Cup final, Wembley6-8: Tennis - Davis Cup - Great Britain v United States,

Glasgow6-8: Athletics - European Indoor Championships, Prague,

Czech Republic7-10: Football - FA Cup quarter-finals10-11: Football - Champions League round of 16 first leg14: Six Nations - Wales v Ireland, England v Scotland15: F1 - Australian Grand Prix, Melbourne17-18: Football - Champions League round of 16 second

leg21: Six Nations - Italy v Wales, Scotland v Ireland, England

v France29: Cricket - World Cup final, Melbourne29: F1 - Malaysian Grand Prix, Kuala Lumpur


Richard Scudamore, the Premier League’s longstanding ringmaster, is continually under pressure to redistribute more of the Premier League’s TV billions to what it likes to call “good causes” and what others might call the rest of football He makes the somewhat valid point that without investing huge sums in the best players and facilities there would be less of everything to go round. He has been proved right. The total figure of £5.136bn represents a 70% increase on the last UK television deal for Premier League football. Between them, Sky, who again won the pick of the seven packages, retainingboth the prestigious Sunday and Monday evening slots, and BT, who kept two of the smaller packages, are now paying over £10m per Premier League fixture. In pure cash raising terms, Scudamore and his small group of lawyers+ and rights experts, deserve the backslapping reception they will receive from the 20 clubs for vastly increasing their income once again. Scudamore warned clubs, three years ago after the last auction, not to lavish their 70% increase entirely on agents and wages.

They proceeded to largely ignore him and, without intervention, there is nothing to suggest they won’t do the same again. The first £500,000-a-week Premier League footballer cannot be far away.

From the 2000 fans at Princes Park, to 50,000 at Old Trafford by Henry Clark

On Tuesday 3rd February ex-Dartford midfielder Tom Champion will be lining up against the second richest club in the world.

This is quite a way from an ex-office workers’ usual comfort zone. In 2012 he was starting for Dartford against Welling United in the Ryman South conference league playoff; a game Dartford went on to win 1-0 and secure promotion to the Conference premier. His performances for Dartford between 2010 and 2013 attracted the attention of conference giants Cambridge United, and they snapped up Dartford duo Tom and defender Tom Bonner in May 2013.

For Champion it only got better. In his first season at the Abbey Stadium he appeared in every Football League 2 game, earning a solitary goal to his name in the process. Cambridge were then drawn against Manchester United in the FA cup fourth round – a huge coo for the club, both financially and just the sheer experience of coming up against some of the world’s greats. And after showing fight in the tie, they earned a replay at Old Trafford; the biggest ground in England.Champion’s success can be used as inspiration for us all: he fought from the bottom, and after many niggling injuries and 50:50 tackles he has made it to the top.

youngsportsjourno.wordpress.com

Session timesMen’s – Tuesday @ Haberdashers’ Aske’s Crayford Academy 19:30 - 21:30 Men’s – Thursday @ Becket Sports Centre 20:00 - 22:00 (Game day)Junior’s – Tuesday @ Haberdashers’ Aske’s Crayford Academy

18:00 - 19:30 Junior’s – Saturday @ Harris Academy Falconwood 9:00 - 10:30 (10-14 year olds) or 10:30 - 12:00 (15+ year olds)Women’s – Thursday @ Becket Sports Centre 20:00 - 22:00

Website - www.dartfordbasketballclub.co.uk Facebook - www.facebook.com/dartfordbasketballclub

Claire Sweeney talks about Sex In Suburbia, the new production coming to Dartford in April

Q: Where did the idea for Sex In Suburbia come from?A: All the appallingly bad dates my friends and I have ever experienced. We’d tell each other what had happened and get over the horror of the experiences by laughing about them. Then, about two years ago, my close friend Mandy Muden and I started writing them all down in my front room with the notion of turning them into a comedy. At first we weren’t even sure if we were funny! But the play went down a storm with the audiences last year when it first opened in Liverpool. We take them through every emotion and they enjoy themselves so much that they get up to dance in the aisles and sing along to the big musical anthems we’ve included, such as I’m Every Woman, I Want To B r e a k F r e e a n d , o f c o u r s e , I W i l l S u r v i v e .

Q: What happens in the show?A: It’s all about the eternal subject of love and romance, and the quest to find Mr Right through a series of mainly unsatisfactory dating experiences. But we’ve tried to take the bad out of the date and make the audience laugh by helping them to see the funny side. In our comedy the host of a late-night radio show is Britain’s leading agony aunt and she takes calls from listeners #about their dates from hell – and the occasional one from heaven – and dishes out her advice. In the original show I played a relationship expert, but this time around I play myself – a working mum with a baby.I decided to update it because my baby boy Jaxon, who was born in September, has changed my outlook on life around. As a result, I’ve injected my own personal experiences of motherhood into the show.

Q: Have you changed anything else?A: Yes, I’ve de-Scoused it so that it will appeal more to a national audience. It was very localised before, about famous names and places in Liverpool, so I’ve taken out those references and made it more generic. However, all the dating stories remain

the same – they can relate to everyone, wherever they’re from.Q: Have you included your own experiences of dating?A: Yes, all the material comes from me and my friends. I’m the woman who goes on all these dodgy dates looking for love and then reaches a stage in her l i fe when she wou ld l i k e t o se t t l e down and become a Mum!

Q: What kind of baby-related stories are in the show?A: Funny anecdotes about pregnancy and breastfeeding. I had the most gorgeous pregnancy and loved my growing bump and being able to eat what I wanted. A few weeks after I had Jaxon, people came up to congratulate me on being pregnant. I hadn’t lost baby weight and they thought I was s t i l l expect ing! I was a b i t embarrassed and rep l ied ind ignant l y, ‘Actua l l y my baby’s s ix weeks o ld. ’ You can’ t p ing back in to shape immedia te ly.

Q: Will the show appeal only to women?A: At first we assumed it would be a comedy for women, but we’ve seen men coming, too. During a matinee performance I saw a whole group of fellas fill a row, and at the bar in the interval I asked them why they’d come. They replied that one of their mates had seen it, loved it and recommended it and so they’d come along as part of a lads’ day out. There are elements of the show that men can definitely relate to.

Q: You starred in panto in Liverpool just seven weeks af ter Jaxon was born. Has i t been difficult getting the baby/work balance right?A: It was hard at first and Jaxon probably wants to know why he’s no longer being breastfed by a genie! I was playing the genie in Aladdin, wearing fabulous sparkly purple costume, and used to feed Jaxon in the interval. He seemed to love the music, the magical surroundings and all my theatre friends who’d help me look after him. Some people said, ‘You should take time out and stay at home with your baby,’ but I’m a working mum who has bills to pay so going back to work so early wasn’t a case of getting my life back and getting back on stage; it’s what I do and I believe it’s possible to combine both successfully and so far so good!

Q: Will you be taking Jaxon on tour with you?A: Yes, a close friend is coming with me who will look after him while I’m on stage but he’ll be with me the rest of the time. I love him so much that I don’t want to be away from him. How lucky am?!



Astro Stars By Sandy Davies

www.facebook.com/astrodegrees

ARIESUse this time to recuperate or work behind the scenes on projects and to create your

own opportunities.

TAURUSGood time to make new friends which help you to manifest your goals and dreams that

you have.

GEMINIYou may finally be presented with an

opportunity to pursue your dreams/goals that allow you to make a big leap.

CANCERYou start a new direction in your life by returning to further education, start a

business or anything that removes you from the mundane routine.

LEOYou have the opportunity to start a joint

business venture, making a long term deal/contract or receive a surprise windfall.

VIRGOA serious relationship may be taken to the

next level (this could also imply to a business relationship) and if single this is an ideal time to form a serious relationship with someone

who is very talented.

LIBRAYou may be presented with an opportunity, have a major breakthrough to your work or hobbies that allows you to make a big leap

towards success.

SCORPIOCelebration parties come in thick and fast

and a sudden attraction has the potential to completely transform your life.

SAGITTARIUSIf you are thinking about selling/buying a

home or doing major renovation, this is an ideal time that the venture will succeed and

will be beneficial.

CAPRICORNThis is ideal time to start a new venture, business or learn a new language as this

could imply a major shift to your life that will be beneficial and rewarding.

AQUARIUSA great time to renegotiate a business

contract, sign a new contract/lease as the financial gains you receive through this

process will be immense.

PISCESYou are making profound changes towards personal relationships or making physical

changes to your appearance.

Using your birth time and not just your Sun sign, to predict forthcoming events which are unique to you! Order a 3 month, 6 month or 12 month report from £20.00 contact me on 07966 307360 Email: astrodegrees@btinternet.

com

COMPETITION Ticket Office01322 220000or www.orchardtheatre.co.uk

SEX IN SUBURBIA SAT 11-12 APRIL 2015CLAIRE SWEENEY STARS IN AND CO-WRITES THIS BRAND NEW COMEDY ABOUT DATING, MEN AND FINDING ‘MR RIGHT.’

PENNY CROWE IS THE HOST OF A LATE-NIGHT RADIO PHONE-IN AND AS BRITAIN’S LEADING AGONY AUNT, SHE TAKES CALLS ABOUT EVERY DATE FROM HELL AND THE OCCASIONAL ONE FROM HEAVEN. SHE IS MORE THAN HAPPY TO DISH OUT RELATIONSHIP ADVICE, BUT IS SHE AS HAPPY TO TAKE IT? PACKED FULL OF SENSATIONAL SONGS INCLUDING I’M EVERY WOMAN, I WANT TO BREAK FREE AND SOMEBODY ELSE’S GUY; THIS SHOW WILL MAKE YOU LAUGH, CRY AND DANCE IN THE AISLES. BASED ON REAL STORIES FROM REAL WOMEN, THIS IS THE STORY OF ALL OF OUR LIVES!

DARTFORD LIVING AND THE ORCHARD HAVE TEAMED UP TO OFFER 2 TO THE SHOW. TO BE IN WITH A CHANCE OF WINNING THIS FANTASTIC PRIZE JUST ANSWER THE FOLLOWING QUESTION...DARTFORD LIVING AND THE ORCHARD HAVE TEAMED UP TO OFFER 2 TO THE SHOW. TO BE IN WITH A CHANCE OF WINNING THIS FANTASTIC PRIZE JUST ANSWER THE FOLLOWING QUESTION... WHICH OF THE FOLLOWING ACTRESSES WILL STAR IN SEX IN SUBURBIA?

A) MARTINE MCCUTCHEON B) CLAIRE SWEENEY C) KYM MARSH D) JENNIFER ELLISON

Please send your entries to Orchard Theatre Competition, Dartford Living, PO Box 283, Dartford, Kent, DA1 9BW or email [email protected] by the 15th March 2015 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, 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.

FEBRUARY’S COMPETITION WINNER: LORETTA HUTCHINSON


£ 12 adults£6 concessions

£ 2 children

Kick off times & further information

can be found atwww.dartfordfc.co.uk

SUDOKUSolution

Five WOW Facts!

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Lavenham Crooked HousesLavenham is a delightful little town located 70 miles north-east of London.

. - by Vinayak JainLavenham is a medieval town with a rich history and founded on its flourishing wool trade. The town grew so fast that many of the houses were built in haste with green timber.

As the wood dried, the timbers warped causing the houses to bend at unexpected angles. Not only are the houses half-timbered, but many are painted in rich colors and noticeably crooked, literally.

Unfortunately, Lavenham’s good times didn’t last long. When Dutch refugees settled in Colchester and began producing cloth that was cheaper, lighter and more fashionable than Lavenham’s, the town’s cloth industry went bust.

By the time the dried timber started twisting, Lavenham’s families had lost its wealth and with no money to rebuild their homes, the houses were left as they were.

In popular culture, in 2010, under conditions of strict secrecy, scenes from Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 1 & Part 2 were filmed in the town.

CLAREMONT DECORATIVE SERVICES• ALL TYPES OF INTERNAL AND

EXTERNAL DECORATING• AROUND THE HOUSE

MAINTENANCE JOBS • FREE ESTIMATES

• REFERENCES AVAILABLE • RELIABLE, INEXPENSIVE AND

QUALITY WORK BY LOCAL TRADESMEN

CAN WE HELP YOU?

Please call Mike or John on: Tel 01322 406439 / 01322 525708Mobile: 07742 085333 Email: [email protected]

Partners: Mike Perry and John Petherick


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Grid n°7173 medium

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Dartford Living March 2015