dartford living december issue

DARTFORD Issue 102

LIVING

• Dartford • Bexley • Crayford • Darenth • Gravesend • Greenhithe • Longf eld • Northf eet • Swanley • Wilmington

PlusAll your regular features, puzzles, events, information and much, much more!

DECEMBER 2014

Delivered FREE each month to thousands of homes and businesses

What’s Inside...Dartford Toy AppealSee 8-19

Speaking up for Dartford CommutersSee Page 14

Building Dartford’s Rugby FutureSee Page 23

PlusAll your regular features, puzzles, events, information and much, much more!

HAPPY CHRISTMASFROM THE

DARTFORD LIVING TEAM

Search ~ Dartford 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

Dartford Living, PO Box 283, Dartford, Kent, DA1 9BW Tel: 01322 507817Advertising & Editorial - Contact Vijay: [email protected]

Sales and Design - Contact David: [email protected]

www.dartfordliving.com Dartford Living and its owners cannot be held responsible for any errors, omissions

or claims made by advertisers or endorse companies, products or services that appear in any Dartford Living publication or media.

Dear Readers,A big December hello from everyone at Dartford Living! 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! Nearly 4000 local people already do this!

Until next time, Vijay

(and Annie, Bhavesh, Dhiren, Elaine, Joanne, Ken, Mark, Nickki, Peter, Richey, Samantha, David and the rest of thefantastic Dartford Living volunteer team)

3

Index of Advertisers and InformationYour quick guide to everyone and everything in your Dartford Living Magazine

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

ARTICLES & LOCAL INFORMATIONAstro Stars........................................................................................................37Automotive News .......................................................................................... 30Building Dartford’s Rugby future....................................................................23Contact Dartford Living ....................................................................................3Dartford Conservative Club ..........................................................................23Dartford Football Club .............................................................................34-35Dartford Toy Appeal ................................................................................18-19Dartford Warbler Results ................................................................................34Editor’s Letter .....................................................................................................3Fitness Article ...................................................................................................34Five WOW Facts............................................................................................ 38Gardening Tips .............................................................................................. 28It’s Your Letters .................................................................................................32Max’s Makersspace ......................................................................................24Orchard Theatre Competition ........................................................................33School Life: The Perspective of an Insider .................................................... 39Scounting ........................................................................................................27Sporting Comment ..........................................................................................16Sudoku ............................................................................................................ 30Sudoku Solution ............................................................................................. 38Thumbs up for Non-League Day....................................................................22Tips for Small Businesses ............................................................................... 22TV Star visits Childrrns Charity CHYPS..........................................................18Useful Numbers ............................................................................................. 38Where To Go Locally .................................................................................6 -13Why Weight?..................................................................................................20

ADVERTISERSACCOUNTANTS, FINANCE & LEGALConradi Morrison & Co .............................2Lynton & Co .................................................5BUILDERS, DECORATORS ROOFING, KITCHENS & WINDOWS4k Building Services ............................... 39A Baines & Son Roofng ...........................26Claremont Decorative Services .............. 36John Hargreaves Building & Home Improvment .................................... 31P Clark .......................................................33Steve Cook - Double Glazing .................16CLEANING/DRY CLEANERSOven Clean ..............................................17EcoClean ......................................................29COSMETIC, BEAUTY & HEALTHDia Wipes .................................................15Why Weight? ................................................21

EDUCATIONKip McGrath .............................................17ELECTRICIANSAES Electricians ..........................................4ESTATE AGENTSGPS Lettings ..............................................15Wisdom Estates .........................................25EVENTSGetthrifty Fairs ............................................13Woodville Theatre .....................................40FASHIONAhadi Fashion ...........................................25GARAGES & VEHICLE SERVICESShenley Road Garage ............................ 36JEWELLERSBradleys .....................................................26LOCKSMITHS/HOME SECURITYDartford Locksmith .................................... 31

MUSIC/DANCE & SPORTS/FITNESS

Adult Dance Classes...................................12Dartford Bootcamps ...................................4Monkey Music ............................................7Signalong Baby Sign ................................ 11

OPTICIANS

Linklater Opticians ....................................37

PICTURE FRAMING

Craft Frames ............................................. 36

PLASTERERS

Craig Baker ...............................................26

PLUMBERS/BATHROOMS/TILING

A.B Services ..............................................17

Nightingale Bathrooms ............................ 31

T Broadbent ...............................................25

VAN SERVICES & REMOVALS

F.D Transport ..............................................32

WEBSITE DESIGN

DS Brochure Webdesign ..........................29


Where to go locally... ...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].

TuesdaysSession 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.

Fridays9.30-11am Baby and me for expectant mothers and mothers / carers of chidren up to 2. £1 per adultSt Mary Greenhithe Church Hall, London Road Greenhithe. Contact 01322 382031 or see www.stmarygreenhithe.com

9.30-11.30 Carer & Toddler Group, St Mary’s Church Hall, Stone Place Rd, Greenhithe. Jeanne 01322 380322 [email protected] Gigglekidz, Tree Estate Community Centre on Cedar Road - £2 Per Child - Call Elizabeth 07780655610 for more information

SaturdaysDaddy 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 Sessions

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.

MONDAYS 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.


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


LATE NIGHT CHEM-ISTS

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

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



YOGA BELLIES YogaBellies prenatal yoga classes at the Mick Jagger Centre, Dartford. Tuesday

evenings 7-8.15pm. For more information please contact [email protected]

07530281704

Local Sports ClubsBexley 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 Vally Rugby Clubhttp://www.pitchero.com/clubs/darenthvalleyrfc/

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

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

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


BABY SENSORY CLASSES

Baby 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

PLAY GOLF - MAKE NEW FRIENDS?Why not join a new golf society in Dartford Suitable for mid -high handicappers - very informal, new players welcomePlay at local clubs in KentContact Gary on TEL: 07850 376818

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

tel:01322311415/07837413229

[email protected]


Where to go locally...

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

MUSIC UMBRELLA Classes for under-fives teaching the basic elements of music through whole body movement, using

the Dalcroze and Kodaly methods. With action songs and games, using percussion instruments and

props like hoops, balls and soft toys,

the children develop musical, physical and social awareness, concentration,

co-ordination and confidence - and have lots of fun! Becket Sports Centre, Thursdays during term

time : babies 9-9.40am; toddlers 9.40-10.20am; 3&4 years 10.20-11am Contact Myrtle : 07763

378451 Email : [email protected]

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 Libraries

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



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

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

GUITARS IN THE SHADOWS – JOIN IN MUSIC BY THE SHADOWS TO 60S TO ROCK N ROLL

Meet at Dartford Working Mens Club (Essex Road) at 7.30pm on the fourth Thursday of the month. Membership

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

[email protected]

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]

Where to go locally...


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

Hold regular meetings in The Meeting Place,

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

email [email protected]

Dartford & District Stamp Club

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

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

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

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

For over a decade I’ve commuted to work in London by rail, frst with Connex, then the brief Government run stint, and the past 7 years with Southeastern. When the Dartford Living Editor asked me if I’d like to take part in a BBC Radio Kent day with the new Southastern MD, I jumped at the chance.

I chose to tackle the problems that we face daily: early train termination, compensation, performance and heating. Not the soft subjects of one station out of seven in our Borough getting Oyster, or free wif. Whilst nice, it only benefts a few.

Early termination: many commuters travel beyond Dartford station, in evening peak delays, trains would typically be turned round at Dartford with commuters having to wait for the next one. Whilst acknowledging this, the best the MD could do was call those inconvenienced the ‘minority’.

Compensation: Delay Repay on an annual ticket from Dartford is £2.05 for a 30-59 min delay. The MD claimed this is an industry standard, though was planning extra compensation for those delayed “over 4 weeks”. We’ll see if this happens during Winter.

Performance: I tried for a month to get this, since the Government’s Direct Award of the franchise to Southeastern, and whilst the MD claimed this was in a customer magazine, the magazine was since edited to show this was actually current performance, and not the targets that Southeastern have to operate to.

Heating: I raised this near the end of the show. The MD said he’d follow up.....and when off air gave me his card to ask the other questions I had. When I get answers I’ll update Dartford Living readers.

There is a write-up of the day on my blog, and other posts about Southeastern! --- philrogers.me/

I’d be interested in hearing your views on the service, so I can collect them up and pass them on to Southeastern, and I’ll endeavour to get you the answers.

Together, we can see if the MD’s claims of ‘transparency’ stand up, and make our voices heard.

SPEAKING UP FOR DARTFORD COMMUTERS - BY PHIL ROGERS PHOTOS BY RICHEY ESTCOURT


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

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Bav’s Sporting CommentThe great FIFA watches farce continued when football powerbrokers Michel Platini and Greg Dyke joked about their contrasting responses after being ordered to return their £16,400 Parmigiani watches.The watches were given as gifts by Brazil’s football federation to delegates at the FIFA Congress in Sao Paulo, but FIFA ethics chief Michael Garcia has ruled that they be sent back to Zurich. UEFA president Platini, who laughed with FA chairman Dyke about the pantomime while on a train to St George’s Park, has sent his watch back despite saying he would not do so because he doesn’t believe in returning presents. Dyke, though, still intends to auction his watch for the benefit of the FA cancer charity and has informed Garcia of that decision in writing for a second time. Garcia had earlier warned Dyke he could face disciplinary action if the watch wasn’t posted back to FIFA. But Dyke, rightly, is not prepared to be dictated to on such a petty issue. Garcia’s deadline for retrieving the watches was October 24, but there has been no word from him on how many of the 65 were handed back, or on those threatened sanctions.

UPCOMING EVENTS IN DECEMBER

3-7: Swimming: World Short Course

Championships, Doha

6-7: Football - FA Cup 2nd Round

9-11: Football:

Champions League and Europa League group stage matches

26: Racing: King George VI Chase,

Kempton Park.

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OVER 30 YEARS’ EXPERIENCE

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Steve Cook postcard final:Layout 1 27/1/14 12:15 Page 1


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DARTFORD’S CHRISTMAS TOY APPEAL FOR LOCAL CHILDREN By Maire Harding, Volunteer & Funding Offcer at Choice

Christmas is a time of peace and hope – and these are two things which we at Choices (formerly North Kent Women’s Aid) are able to offer families who are feeing an abusive relationship. Christmas can be a diffcult time because, in order to keep safe, victims have had to fee their home towns leaving behind relatives (including children’s grandparents), friends, pets and, for the children, their favourite toys. We aim to make Christmas a special time for them – we take them to the pantomime, buy them presents and invite them to a children’s party where they can meet Santa in our magically crafted Santa’s Grotto! We want them to reclaim the carefree feelings that all children have the right to enjoy.

Domestic Abuse does not discriminate: it affects people from all backgrounds. Last year there were 68 women and 81 children in our local refuges. Sadly, as Christmas approaches, statistics show that referrals will increase at this time of year.

Choices delivers a whole range of different programmes which are available to victims of domestic abuse of all ages and both genders and, though we will always have close links with Women’s Aid, we believe our new name refects our wide reaching services, including

our work in the community with schools and children and young people.

Each year we rely heavily on donations of new toys from the generous public and local businesses to help us to achieve this. We are therefore extremely grateful that we have been approached by Dartford Living & Dartford Community Group to make an appeal on our behalf. It really makes such a huge difference to families who have been affected by Domestic Abuse.

Anyone affected by domestic abuse, please visit our website www.choicesdaservice.org.uk – or call our Helpline: 0800 917 9948 (9am-4pm Mon-Fri).

TV STAR Phil Spencer swapped properties for messy play as he visited chYps, a local charity that provides hospice care for

children at home.

The Location Location Location presenter became a Patron after hearing about the vital end-of-life, cancer and respite care the charity provides

to seriously ill babies, children and young adults across the county.

Recently Phil headed to chYps HQ at the EllenorLions Centre in Dartford for a family drop-in. These fun sessions are held during half term and other

school holidays for young patients and their relatives to meet other families and provide mutual support.

The property expert enjoyed doing Halloween-themed arts and crafts with young patients and their siblings before hearing frst-hand from the team

of specialist palliative care nurses about how they provide vital homecare 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Secret Agent star Phil said: “I am honoured to be a Patron of chYps and it was wonderful to be able to meet the children and families it supports. It

struck me just how happy these families are, despite going through unimaginable hardships, and I believe this is down to the vital care chYps provides

in the comfort and security of the family home.” chYps is the children and young people’s service of EllenorLions Hospices and is reliant on donations

to be able to provide care free to families who need it.

Every year it must raise £1.5million to care for over 200 children living in Dartford, Gravesend,

Swanley, Maidstone, Tonbridge, Tunbridge Wells, Sevenoaks and surrounding villages.

Phil added: “This wonderful charity enables a poorly child to remain at home with their mummy,

daddy and siblings so that they can continue to be a family, together. I implore the Kent community

to support this charity and to give generously today, so it can be there to care for those who need it

tomorrow.”

For further information about the charity and to fnd out what events are coming up in your area,

visit www.chyps.org, ‘like’ www.facebook.com/chypschildrenshospice, or follow ‘chYpsCharity’ on

twitter.

TV STAR PHIL SPENCER VISITS DARTFORD CHILDREN’S HOSPICE CHARITY CHYPS


!

One month to make a difference !17th November to 18th December !!!!

CHOICES (previously know as North Kent Women’s Aid) is a charity that provides safe refuge for the woman and children of Dartford and Gravesend that have had to leave their home as a result of domestic abuse.

For these families Christmas can be a particularly difÞcult time which is why this year various local community groups are coming together for one month to ask you to make a difference to a child affected by domestic abuse.

We are asking local residents and businesses to donate NEW toys and children’s book (also vouchers, wrapping paper, toiletries and non-perishable food) so that these can be distributed to the affected children in time for Christmas.

Whether its an unwanted gift or a toy that you bought and want to donate every donation will go straight to an affected child in one of the four refuges that CHOICES run in Dartford and Gravesend.

!!

You can drop of toys and gifts at any of the above locations between 17th November and 18th December. !St Edmunds Church Living WellSt Edmunds RoadDartfordKent DA1 5ND01322 311201 (Centre OfÞce) !Stone Parish Council Office Stone Pavilion Hayes Road, Stone Greenhithe Kent DA9 9DS01322 384400

Stephen Oliver Gallery Orchard Centre High Street Dartford Kent 01322 278674

The Darling Buds of May Florist 33 Chastilian Road, Dartford, DA1 3JP 01322 229373 !!

Mon 8am-8pm Tue 7am-6pm Wed 8am-6pm Thur 8am-8pm Fri 8am-6pm Sun 9am-12pm

9-5 everyday and late night til 9pm Wednesday and Thursday

Thursday 10am-4pm Friday 10am-4pm Saturday 10am-5pm Sunday 10am-4pm

www.facebook.com/groups/Dartfordcommunitygroup/ www.dartfordmatters.com

www.dartfordliving.com

Mon-Sat 9am-5pm Wed 9am-12pm

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Healthy Living Centre Dartford, in partnership with Dartford Borough Council, is continuing to run their successful Why Weight programme across the Borough with new courses starting in January 2015.

The twelve-week programme offers expert advice and includes weekly 30-minute low intensity exercise classes. The programme is completely free to join and is open to anyone over 18 with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 28 or over.One successful participant is Phillip Brooker who joined the programme in April 2013. Phillip suffered with Type 2 Diabetes and had initially been referred to the programme by the local diabetes clinic weighing in at 31 stone with a waist measurement of 170cm. He was unwell and at risk of losing his foot. However, since attending the programme, Phillip has gone on to lose over 13 stone and due to his incredible weight loss has now been taken off his diabetes medication, and also had his blood pressure tablets reduced. Right from the beginning Phillip was extremely focussed and motivated which resulted in weight loss every single week throughout the programme. Having previously been a person who skipped breakfast, he began eating regular healthy meals throughout the day which helped to avoid snacking in the afternoon when he normally would have become hungry.

Another change was exercising. Phillip had been more or less housebound. His weight and other medical complications made it diffcult to walk and he has issues with balance which contributed to him leading quite an isolated existence. Phillip’s sheer determination overcame this and he started to use an exercise bike indoors. He started with just a three-minute cycle and confesses that he had to stop sometimes up to fve times during this time.

However as the weight steadily came off, he was able to increase the duration and intensity of exercise.Phillip said, “Apart from the health benefts I have gained, I have also benefted from an increased ‘feel-good factor’ from doing things like shopping, wearing normal clothes and being included in everyday activities that just weren’t accessible to me before.” “I found the help from the Healthy Living Team invaluable and attribute my success to a number of things I learnt from the programme such as keeping a food diary, using a smaller plate at meal times and understanding the nutritional content from food labels. I am able to make healthier choices from this knowledge.”

The next Why Weight programmes begin in January 2015:

• Dartford – Mondays from 12 January, 1.15pm to 2.45pm and Wednesday 14

January, 6.30pm to 8pm

• Swanscombe – Thursdays from 15 January, 6.30pm to 8pm

• Stone – Thursdays from 15 January, 10.30am to 12 noon

For more information or to book your place please contact the Healthy Living Team

on 01322 311265 or e-mail [email protected].

WHY WEIGHT – FOR A HEALTHIER, HAPPIER YOU


Sign up for the WHY

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F R E E 1 2 W E E K P R O G R A M M E

* for individuals with a body mass index (BMI) over 28

For more information and to book your place call the Healthy Living Team on 01322 311265 or email [email protected]

New programmes starting in JanuaryDARTFORD12th January, 1.15pm – 2.45pm14th January, 6.30pm – 8.00pm

STONE15th January, 10.30am – 12noon

SWANSCOMBE15th January, 6.30pm – 8pm

Dartford Conservative Club is a family friendly and welcoming social club in the centre of Dartford - the ideal place for a relaxing quiet drink or a bite to eat. We always welcome new members.

The club comprises a large comfortable lounge bar with fat screen TV and dart board. A large ballroom with a dance foor surrounded by a carpeted seating area, with bar, stage and toilets. Available for hire to members and guests for private functions. 150 people can be seated comfortably.

There is a smaller function room, with a bar, is available for private parties and meetings which can seat up to 60 people.

There is a kitchen open Tuesday to Saturday between 12pm - 2pm with home cooked food on offer at very competitive prices. Once a month we also do a home cooked Sunday roast with 3 courses, booking essential.

A snooker room, with 3 full size tables available to members and their guests.

First Monday of the month is quiz night, it only costs £2 per person to enter with a maximum 6 people per team.

The Club is open seven days a week and is conveniently located for public transport routes and public parking. Maintained to high standards offering excellent facilities and has a fully automated door entry system which ensures that entry to the premises is secure and safe. CCTV cameras are installed for further security.

Opening Hours

Mon – Thurs 11:00 - 15:00 & 19:00 - 23:00

Fri 11:00 - 15:00 & 19:00 - 23:00

Sat 11:00 - 23:30

Sun 12:00 - 17:00

For more information about membership, hall bookings or anything else please do pop into the club or contact the club secretary on 01322 27 99 69 / the bar on 01322 22 33 00 or email: [email protected]

Facebook - www.facebook.com/ConClubDartford

Twitter - @DartfordConClub

Address: 46 Spital St Dartford DA1 2DT


DARTFORD CONSERVATIVE CLUB

Commercial vehicle leasing business Vanarama (www.Vanarama.co.uk) , sponsor of the Vanarama Conference, together with Prostate Cancer UK are thanking football fans for their support, after raising thousands of pounds for the charity on Non League Day 2014. Vanarama, linked with former Southampton FC and England legend Matt Le Tissier to champion the day, and pledged to make a donation to the charity on behalf of every fan attending a Vanarama Conference Fixture on Non-League Day.

After a hugely successful broadcast and social media campaign, a total of 38,675 fans attended across Vanarama

Conference fxtures,resulting in £7735 being donated to the charity - certainly one in the back of the net for Non-League Day and Prostate Cancer UKNon League Day started in 2010. Always scheduled to coincide with an international break, it provides a platform for clubs to promote the importance of affordable volunteer led community football while giving fans across the country the chance to show support for their local non-league side. To raise the profle of the day Vanarama launched a fve day broadcast and social media campaign, #thumbsup4nld. Football celebrities and grass roots fans alike were asked to tweet a picture of themselves putting their ‘thumbs up’ for Non-League Day and encouraging others to get down to their local club to watch the match.

“We are delighted with the success of Non-League Day 2014,” explains Vanarama’s Managing Director, Andy Alderson. “As well as raising vital funds for Prostate Cancer UK, we were overwhelmed with the way the fans engaged with the thumbs up campaign. More than 4,600 unique hashtag tweets and in excess of 30 million timeline deliveries were made for, #thumbsup4nld. Importantly, behind the stats the real warmth, humour and depth of feeling for the Vanarama Conference, evident in the tweets, was heart-warming.Encouraging growth in grass roots football is vital to our nation’s game. We were just shy of the all time attendance record for Non-League Day. This is our frst year of sponsorship of the Conference, so from a standing start we’re really proud of that. Raising thousands for charity to boot makes it even more worthwhile.”

THUMBS UP FOR NON LEAGUE DAY’S SUCCESS AS VANARAMA DONATES THOUSANDS TO PROSTATE CANCER UK


X

X

Dartford Valley RFC’s inaugural VIP Day recently took place, held at their home pitch at The Leigh Academy. Attending VIPs were the Mayor of Dartford, Cllr Avtar Sandhu MBE, The MP for Dartford, Gareth Johnson, and representing one of the club’s sponsors, Robert Goodman of Bluewater. The occasion was celebrated with the 1st XV’s Kent League 2 fxture v Brockleians RFC. It was always going to be a very tough match for the Dartford Valley rugby team, as the opposition had scored more than 100 points against them in last season’s meeting. The vast improvement in the home side, drilled by Head Coach, George Morris, was evident in the fnal score of 0-32, a loss for the Dartford club but anyone must appreciate that Darent Valley RFC, the ONLY rugby club in Dartford, is just fve years old and is building strong foundations for a successful future. The 1st XV and the 2nd XV (which has played three, won two, so far this season) are mainly comprised of young and inexperienced players but the club is driven by ambition, passion and spirit. The rugby club is focused on full integration with the community it serves. There is now rugby-based training for ladies at the Academy on Tuesday evenings; plans are in place to begin a youth section by summer 2015 and there is a Legends team for the more mature players who prefer a gentler pace of rugby. The club is dedicated to doing everything it can to share the core values of rugby with

the Dartford community: team spirit, ftness, discipline, friendship and most importantly, fun. The club had great support on the touch lines, with nearly 100 spectators watching the VIP Day match giving an atmosphere that was charged with passion and intensity as both sides battled away.Join Dartford’s ONLY rugby club by fnding them on Facebook (Dartford Valley Rugby Club) or just go along to The Leigh Academy for a training session (Tuesdays and Thursdays from 7pm) or watch a match at the Academy on Saturday afternoons.

All images Pete Bresser at bresserphotos.com

BUILDING DARTFORD’S RUGBY FUTUREBy local resident Pete Bresser

Max’s Makerspace

Activity provided by www.microhackers.co.uk

Hello, it's lovely to meet you, I'm a robot, and my name’s 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. [email protected]

Christmas snow globe

You will need: 1 x Jam jar 1 x Tub of glitter 1 x Jug of water 1 x Christmas model 1 x Tube of glue

Optional extras: 1 x Can of tonic water 1 x Tub of glycerin

Instructions:

1. First you’ll need a jam jar, wash it nice and clean. 2. Make or find a model, that you wish to be seen. 3. Glue the model in the lid, and leave until it’s dry. 4. Then pour some glitter in the jar, to make your snowy sky. 5. Fill with water to the top, and screw the lid down tight. 6. Shake the globe, then set it down, for a lovely christmas sight.

Optional extra instructions:

1. To make the snow globe better, there are some things to alter. The fluid used inside the jar, can be swapped for tonic water.

2. Shaking fizzy tonic, is a mess, you won’t want that. So open a few days before, and let it all go flat.

3. At night time when it’s much too dark to see the sparkly snow. Put a light behind the globe, and make the fluid glow!

4. If you wish to slow the snow, and stop it falling fast. Add glycerin to the liquid, it’ll make the snowstorm last.

We’d love to see what you have made, with this activity. Upload a pic to our facebook page for everyone to see. facebook.microhackers.co.uk


Max’s Makerspace

Activity provided by www.microhackers.co.uk

Hello, it's lovely to meet you, I'm a robot, and my name’s 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. [email protected]

Christmas snow globe

You will need: 1 x Jam jar 1 x Tub of glitter 1 x Jug of water 1 x Christmas model 1 x Tube of glue

Optional extras: 1 x Can of tonic water 1 x Tub of glycerin

Instructions:

1. First you’ll need a jam jar, wash it nice and clean. 2. Make or find a model, that you wish to be seen. 3. Glue the model in the lid, and leave until it’s dry. 4. Then pour some glitter in the jar, to make your snowy sky. 5. Fill with water to the top, and screw the lid down tight. 6. Shake the globe, then set it down, for a lovely christmas sight.

Optional extra instructions:

1. To make the snow globe better, there are some things to alter. The fluid used inside the jar, can be swapped for tonic water.

2. Shaking fizzy tonic, is a mess, you won’t want that. So open a few days before, and let it all go flat.

3. At night time when it’s much too dark to see the sparkly snow. Put a light behind the globe, and make the fluid glow!

4. If you wish to slow the snow, and stop it falling fast. Add glycerin to the liquid, it’ll make the snowstorm last.

We’d love to see what you have made, with this activity. Upload a pic to our facebook page for everyone to see. facebook.microhackers.co.uk


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70 years after opening, 9th Dartford (Morning Star) Scout Group is a fourishing Scout Group with 4 youth sections – Beaver Scouts (6yrs-8yrs), Cub Scouts (8yrs-10.5yrs), Scouts (10.5yrs-14yrs) and Explorer Scouts (14yrs-18yrs) - welcoming young people from all parts of the community.

Through the adventure of Scouting, young people get to take risks in a safe environment, and have their frst taste of responsibility. Scouting

gives young people experiences they’ll never forget. The adventure we offer is the chance to try something different and the opportunity to face challenges. From Beaver Scouts and Cub Scouts learning practical and fun skills, to Scouts & Explorer Scouts learning adventure and survival skills.Camping, cooking, games, rock climbing, archery, go-karting, sailing, canoeing, swimming, survival, map reading, hiking, D of E, overseas adventure camps, high ropes, are the type of activities that help young people learn life skills, and develop them for later in life to be a well-rounded member of the community, by having fun, adventure and friendship en-route.At 9th Dartford Scout Group, we offer young people an exciting range of activities in an informal non-academic environment that compliments their schoolwork. Scouting helps children and young adults reach their full potential and develop skills including teamwork, time management, leadership, initiative, planning, communication, self-motivation, cultural awareness and commitment – and we want as many young people to beneft as possible !Our parents say Scouting at 9th gives their children more

confdence, responsibility, a broader set of friends, a chance to pursue things they might not get to do otherwise, adventure, and an extended family. Your child will be able to take part in activities in and away from the scout hall, earn badges and take part in community projects. What is guaranteed is that your child will enjoy exciting activities that will help them grow in confdence and develop into active citizens.We want to ensure that young people in our community are aware of the opportunities & adventure Scouting offers at 9th Dartford.The exciting events already planned for 2015 include an indoor camp in February for our Beavers & Cubs; a 3-day camp for all sections in May; and an 8-day summer camp for the 2 older sections in St Malo, France. All our sections are open to both girls and boys. Please text 07757 128561 for joining details. Adults can also enjoy the “fun of Scouting” by either working with our young people, or helping with our committee and fundraising. Text 07757 128561 to become involved.Join us!

9TH DARTFORD (MORNING STAR) SCOUT GROUP

Tips for small businesses

Individuals who fail to declare offshore income could now face criminal charges even if they had no intention of avoiding tax. The new HMRC policy could make criminals of those ignorant of the tax law, or those who forgot about assets they have offshore. In the March Budget, George Osborne announced his intention to make offshore tax evasion a criminal offence. As a result of this, HMRC are now launching a consultation on the new rules, with detailed proposals expected in the Autumn Statement.

Taxpayers who evade tax can already be subject to a criminal charge, but the prosecution must prove intent. Therefore, most investigations into tax payers are settled without civil penalties.

The Government has now proposed a new strict liability offence of failing to declare offshore income. The HMRC therefore would no longer have to prove deliberate tax evasion.

Consequently, it is very important that tax payers ensure that all offshore income is declared.

As your local Accountant, I will be very glad to meet you and discuss the possibility of tax planning in your business. For more information, please see page 2 of this month’s Dartford Living and feel free to call on 01322 278188 to arrange a free meeting.

Off

shor

e In

com

e

Each month Paul Conradi, Chartered Accountant at Conradi Morrison & Co, will be giving us his professional advice for small businesses..


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- If not frosty plant new Rose bushes- Cut back the herbaceous border and

mulch thickly with composted bark- Put slug pellets around treasured plants,

especially Alpines and Bulbs in mild weather

- Protect delicate evergreens from cold winds by using Horticultural Fleece

Vegetables- Buy seeds now to ensure full availability- Net winter vegetables to keep pigeons

away

Lawns- Avoid walking on lawns in frosty weather- If puddles stay on the lawn spike with a

garden fork to aid drainage and prevent disease

- Consider having lawn mowers and strimmers serviced

General Tasks- Sweep up leaves to make compost- Take pumps out of ponds and fountains

(drain fountains to prevent splitting)- Move patio pots to house wall to give

support and protection- Cut some stems of viburnum x

bodnantense to brighten and perfume

the house- Ensure outside taps are insulated or

drained


X


www.

Dartfo

rdBo

otcam

ps.co

.uk

SUDOKUHOW TO PLAY: Fill in the grid so that every row, every column and every 3x3 box

contains the digits 1 through to 9, with no repetition. That’s all there is to it!

(Solution on page 38)

2015 SKODA FABIA – The new version of this hatchback is 9cm wider than the model it replaces and 3cm lower. The Fabia has a sharp crease line along its fanks, and a distinctive kink in the rear side glass. The Fabia will be offered with a new range of engines. The entry level 1.0 litre 59bhp & 74bhp versions and a 1.2 litre TSI with choice of 89bhp & 109bhp, both petrol. Also, a new 1.4 litre diesel with choice of 89bhp & 103bhp. The new model will be longer and larger in the cabin, with more headroom, and a 2cm increase elbow space in the front. Skoda also wants to offer Fabia buyers more personalisation options, so there are 15 colours to choose from, as well individual colours for the roof, wheels and door mirrors. It is due on sale in January 2015 with the entry-level 1.0 MPI 59bhp S hatch starting at £10,600.

2015 AUDI Q3 – The face-lifted Audi Q3 and RS Q3 have been revealed. The Q3, Audi’s small SUV, has received a fresh new look for 2015, and now comes with more equipment as standard and more effcient engines. The performance RS Q3 also gets a 30bhp power boost. The Q3 now comes with the 148bhp

1.4 litre TFSI petrol engine and offered with either a six-speed manual or a twin-clutch S-tronic automatic gearbox. There are two more petrol engines on offer 2.0 litre 178bhp and 2.5 litre 335bhp in the RS Q3. There are also two diesel engines - 2.0 litre 148bhp and 181bhp. The 2015 Audi Q3 now comes with the drive select system as standard, which allows drivers to adjust the damper settings and also Xenon or LED headlights. The 1.4 litre petrol is the new entry-level model, with prices starting from £25,340 and 2.0 diesel from £26,880 with a delivery date set for spring 2015.

KEEP YOUR CAR SAFE OVER CHRISTMAS – Manufacturers are always looking into ways to make their cars safer, but what can you do in the meantime? Here’s a list of suggestions to make your car a more diffcult target:

- Park somewhere safe - ideally in a parked garage but if not in a well lit area and take valuables with you.

- Keep the keys or key fob in a safe place - When you are at home make sure that you keep the car keys in a place that a thief wouldn’t immediately fnd. In a petrol station take them with you.

- Steering wheel lock - Even if a thief gains access to your car, they’ll be slowed down by a steering wheel lock. These might be inconvenient for you but they also act as a deterrent.

Dhiren’s Automotive NewsIn this edition we’ll look at new face-lifted models and tips to keep your vehicle safe

over Christmas.


Dhiren’s Automotive NewsJOHN HARGREAVES

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“FULWICH VILLA” 100 FULWICH ROAD, DARTFORD KENTTEL: 01322 292323 MOBILE: 07831 448552

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It’s Your Letters!Have you got something to say about a local issue? See page 3 for details of how to contact us.

Dear Dartford Living,Dartford Science and Technology College is a local girl’s secondary school with an ethos rooted in the values of the Co-operative Trust: self-help, self-responsibility, democracy, equality, equity and solidarity.Crucially, we prepare our students to take their place as active and positive members of society. We value the contribution that all our community can make to ensure DSTC is an outstanding small school with big ideas – and big aspirations – for all its students. With this in mind on the 23rd July 2015 we will be undertaking something amazing and unique! In July there will be around 650 students and staff who will be volunteering for the day in Dartford. We are on the look out for charities, groups, churches, community groups who would all like a hand for the day! We can garden, paint, give out leafets and a multitude of other things. Just ask!Our aim is to make a signifcant impact in Dartford for the day. If you are part of, or know of, any group that you think may beneft then please email [email protected] ne

Many thanksJonathan Dix

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

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

MOSCOW CITY BALLET PRESENTS SWAN LAKE TUE 20 - SAT 24 JANUARYMoscow City Ballet is currently at its outstanding artistic best – winning new invitations to perform internationally. Swan Lake is a signature piece of their entire repertoire. The orchestra, choreography, interpretation, beauty and outstanding virtuoso performance win repeatedly rave reviews. Tchaikovsky ‘big story ballets’ are the essence of Russian culture - composed, choreographed and premiered in Russia. Seeing performances by the Moscow City dancers never fails to add that magical ingredient of Russian soul.Dartford Living and The Orchard have teamed up to offer 4 tickets for a family (must include one adult and one child) to the show on Tuesday 20 January. To be in with a chance of winning this fantastic prize just answer the following question...Which film revolves around the production of Swan Lake?

A) DEAD SWAN B) RED SWAN C) BLACK SWAN D) SWAN SONG

Please send your Dec Orchard Theatre Competition, Dartford Living, PO Box 283, Dartford, Kent, DA1 9BWRULES: 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. NOVEMBER’S COMPETITION WINNER: LAURA MURPHY

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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FITNES

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.

So giving you diet advice going into Christmas may fall on deaf ears, but assuming most of you are “waiting ‘til after Christmas” to start your new diet regime, I thought I’d give you a few detox tips to do before you change your diet and start exercising (probably on the frst, or maybe second, Monday of next year…!)

Firstly - Don’t be a sucker! Pills, shakes, gadgets and meal replacements will NOT detoxify your body! Though some supplements/foods may help, don’t be conned into buying some “detox pack” or course of juices etc.

Your body has 4 physical detoxifcation pathways: Respiration, Urination, Defecation, and Perspiration.

Your body is constantly detoxifying, 24/7. The problem comes when our bodies are overloaded with more toxins than they can expel, leading to a build-up of toxicity. Since the body can’t detoxify all of these insults you’re putting in it, and it can’t have them foating around in the bloodstream, it dumps them in fat cells to be stored; where it can come back and fush them out later, if at some stage your toxic load decreases enough to allow it. (This is why people often lose weight on a detox, because your body has the chance to clear out toxins stored in fat that otherwise would stay put.) So to detoxify your body, you need to frstly stop putting toxins in. Take all the juices and green drinks you like, but if you’re still

eating junk, you aren’t going to ease that toxic load on your body.

Change to eating clean, whole foods. Eliminate junk food and sweets. Drink WATER (lots of it), and reduce or eliminate fzzy drinks, caffeine, alcohol, or basically anything that’s not water!

THEN, and only then, you can work on DE-toxifying. Drinking more water will help with urination. Flush out the kidneys and help the liver to process the stored toxins. A hydrated body will fush toxins through the system much more readily, and may stop some of the headaches often associated with a detox.

Do deep breathing daily – most people breathe too shallowly. Consciously try to take deeper breaths, and spend 5 minutes a couple of times a day to just breathe. Long, deep inhales and

exhales. Aim for 10+ breaths, about 5 seconds in, 5 seconds out (longer if you can but keep them even).

Plenty of fresh veg and good food will help your digestive system with elimination and clear your colon of food waste and other toxins and parasites. Also, aim to eat less acidic foods (mainly the junk) and more alkaline foods (mainly green veg) into your diet. Squeezing a lemon or lime into your water makes it more interesting (since you’re now drinking 2+ litres per day of it), and will also help alkalise your body and help detox (and yes, I know lemons are acidic, but they are alkalising for the body – go fgure!)

FA Trophy 1st Round

13th Dec, 3.00pm(TBC)

Braintree26th Dec, TBCpm

POST CHRISTMAS DETOX

DFCSA Warbler Draw Results

DFCSA Warbler Draw Results for Oct

1st prize £200 54 E Hammond

2nd prize £100 182 B Edmonds

3rd prize £50 140 A Bird

4th prize £50 137 M Rollings

5th prize £50 264 K Leach

6th prize £50 246 B Gittins

Congratulations to all the winners. If you are not a member why not join today for just £5 per month - for

details and application form visit the offcial Dartford FC website: http://www.dartfordfconline.com/site/?q=pages/dfcsa-warbler-

club.

QUIZ NIGHT1st Sunday in the month

Park Suite, Princes Park @ 7:30pmTeams of up to 10 players (£12 per team). Licenced Bar

For more information please e-mail [email protected]

Bradbrooke scoring Darts 3rd goal in the seven goal F.A.Cup thriller at Bromley last saturday.

A 1,000 strong dartford fans celebrate behind the goal.


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.

The Darts NewsBradford City Here We Come!!! by Paul Clark

Dartford Football Club go marching on into the 2nd round of the F.A.Cup for only the 10th time in their 120 year history and will face 1st Division opposition Bradford city away at Valley Parade.Dartford’s cup run started with a 4th qualifying round home tie against Burgess hill with the darts comfortably winning 3-1 at home,the draw for the 1st round proper was made with a mouth watering local clash with Bromley at their Fortress stadium just seventeen miles away.This was my frst visit to the stadium so arrived in good time two hours before kick off at 3pm to fnd a good car parking space, rain was forecast throughout the game so I dressed in preparation for the worst!Atmosphere was building in the stadium by 2pm with the ground flling up quite quickly, a 2,000 crowd was mentioned as a possible maximum gate but by the time kick off arrived a huge 4,105 supporters had crammed into the ground, many arriving late after getting caught in traffc congestion outside the ground.Hundreds of Darts fans were in good voice as the game kicked off ,soon to be silenced by a shock 1st minute goal by Louis Dennis who ghosted in at the far post to tap in Bromley’s frst goal. Bromley knocked Dartford out the 1st round of the F.A.Cup two years ago at Princes park 1-2 and later went on to play Leyton orient in the 2nd round, so Dartford were keen to get revenge from that defeat but were up against a slick passing Bromley team who could have been ‘3 up’ in ffteen minutes with two other close chances which just went wide of Jason Browns goal.The rain which was forecast soon materialised with heavy downpours but didn’t dampen both sets of supporters who were in fne form and enjoying the match. Half time approached and

Darts went in one down to that early goal but came out with a new fghting spirit and soon equalised with a Danny Harris equaliser in the 48th minute close in sending the Darts contingent into ecstasy!Game on! now the atmosphere was electric and we had a real F.A. Cup tie,Dartford were looking and playing more attractive football with chances coming quick and fast when fnally a left hand side cross found Ryan Hayes on the edge of the penalty area,he then let loose a typical Rhino left footed bender past the out stretched arms of the Bromley keeper and into the net!Dartford’s black and white army raised the roof of the covered stand,only to be silenced yet again just a minute later after a mistake from the Darts keeper Jason Brown who let in Moses Ademola to make it 2-2! It was breath taking stuff with end to end attacking from both sides until the 65th minute the Darts skipper Elliott Bradbrook bundled in Dartford’s 3rd, surely that was enough wasn’t it? But no, Bromley fought back yet again and following a corner from Dartford’s right Danny Waldren nodded in the top corner with a great equalising goal and level the score at 3-3! Everyone was still taking breath and beginning to lose the scoreline as goals rained in at both ends,this was a game that will be talked about for years to come,but more drama was to unfold just as everyone thought a replay at Princes Park was on the cards,Dartford got their well earned victory with Tom Bradbrook diving to a low cross from the left in the 81st minute to send Darts through 3-4 to the 2nd round of the F.A.Cup!As the fnal whistle blew the players came over and applauded the fans support who stood through the wet conditions and witnessed their team play one of the most exciting games of cup football ever!!Bradford City here we come , Come on you Darts!!!!

Bradbrook scoring the winning goal infront of the Dartford fans


CLAREMONT DECORATIVE SERVICES• ALL TYPES OF INTERNAL AND

EXTERNAL DECORATING• AROUND THE HOUSE

MAINTENANCE JOBS • FREE ESTIMATES

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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

(Booking not always necessary)SAME DAY MOTs

• Tyres • Exhausts • Clutches • Timing Belt Changes • Petrol &

Diesel Cars & Vans Welcome

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

www.shenleygarage.co.uk

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

interests at heart.

Good Garage Schemethe

Shenley Road Garage01322 229887


Established for over 70 years

When did you last have your eyes checked?

When did you last have your eyes

checked?

Linklaters has an extensive range of over 400 styles of glasses to choose

from. Bespoke spectacles at sensible prices.

Tel: 01322 22311322 Lowfield Street (next to Barclays Bank), Dartford

Astro Stars By Sandy Davies

www.facebook.com/astrodegrees

ARIESYou may start a project which incorporates futuristic,

humanitarian or social matters.Best days: 5th, 6th, 23rd

Days to watch out for: 15th, 20th, 25th,

TAURUS A fnancial opportunity may present itself take the risk!

Best days: 4th, 14thDays to watch out for: 20th, 24th, 28th,

GEMINIYour current relationship will be your focus during this period as you decided to “cut the wheat from

the chaff”.Best days: 8th, 12th,

Days to watch out for: 1st, 26th, 30th,

CANCERFull Moon in Gemini, fnding a balance between the

home and work, goals and other public matters is going to be tough.

Best days: 24thDays to watch out for: 23rd, 26th

LEOUnusual creative ideas are favoured and you may

take this into a completely new direction. Best days: 5th, 6th, 12th, 27th

Days to watch out for: 1st

VIRGOYou are working very much as a team during this

period and ensure that everyone works from the same “playing feld”.

Best days: 6th, 8th, 12th, 20thDays to watch out for: 1st, 25th, 26th, 30th

LIBRAPlanet Venus enters Capricorn, making changes to

the home and you try bold colours which add a bit of glamour and artistic fair to the home.

Best days: 4th, 5th, 6th, 14th, 24thDays to watch out for: 20th, 25th, 28th

SCORPIOMoving, renovating or even the family dynamics will

change this month.Best days: 23rd

Days to watch out for: 15th, 20th, 25th

SAGITTARIUSChanging your appearance and indulging yourself in

some pampering sessions is highlighted. Best days: 5th, 6th, 8th, 12th

Days to watch out for: 1st, 28th

CAPRICORNYou are really thinking and contemplating about what

life entails.Best days: 14th, 27th

Days to watch out for: 20th, 23rd, 25th, 28th

AQUARIUSYou desire to learn about a wide range of topics that

may help you on a new business venture.Best days: 6th, 12th, 23rd

Days to watch out for: 1st, 20th, 25th

PISCESYou could fall in love with a dream or a vision that does not match up to reality but which is delightful

while it lasts! Best days: 14th, 20th, 23rd, 27th

Days to watch out for: 1st,

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: [email protected]


24 Hour Kent Dementia Helpline:0800 500 3014Alcoholics Anonymous:08457 697 555Citizens Advice Bureau:01322 224686Crimestoppers:0800 555111Darent Valley Hospital: 01322 428100Dartford Borough Council:01322 343434Dartford Police Station (non urgent crime):01622 690690EDF Energy Networks Emergencies/Powercuts Helpline:0800 028 0247 Gareth Johnson MP 020 7219 7047

Gatwick Airport Enquiries:08700 002468Heathrow Airport Enquiries:08700 000123Information About Drugs - FRANK:0800 776600Kent Homophobic Incident Reporting Line:0800 328 9162Kent Racial Incident Reporting Line:0800 138 1624Local Breastfeeding Counsellors Judianne/Paula:01322 224072National Domestic Violence Helpline (24 hour):0808 2000 247National Gas Emergency Service:0800 111 999

National Rail Enquiries:08457 484950NHS Direct: 111 (free of charge from landline or mobileNSPCC Child Protection Helpline:0808 800 5000Report a non-urgent crime:Dial 101 or go online www.reportacrime.kent.police.ukRSPCA Kent, North West Branch Helpline:01322 286720Samaritans:08457 909090Thames Water Leak Line:0800 714614The National Pandemic Flu Service:0800 1 513 100West Kent NHS Helpline:0800 0 850850

Useful Numbers

£ 12 adults£6 concessions

£ 2 children

Kick off times & further information

can be found atwww.dartfordfc.co.uk

SUDOKUSolution

Five WOW Facts!

1

2

3

4

5

Each month Vinayak Jain will wow us with 5 facts about somewhere or something amazing in the world.

This month it’s… ERTA ALE - ETHIOPIADespite the harsh conditions, danger of volcanic eruption and extreme

heat, Erta Ale has become something of a tourist destination in recent times as it is now possible to drive within 4.3 miles of the volcano.

Erta Ale was discovered in 1906, making it the longest-known lava lake. Known as the ‘smoking mountain’ and ‘the gateway to hell’ in the local language Afar, Erta Ale is a 2,011 foot high volcano. It is one of only a handful of continuously active volcanos in the world and a member of an even more exclusive group: volcanos with lava lakes.

Beneath the ground surrounding Erta Ale is an enormous pool of active magma.

It has erupted in 1873, 1903, 1940, 1960, 1967 and 2005 when it killed hundreds of livestock & forced thousands to fee. Occasionally, due to pressure, ‘fountains’ of lava will form, spewing lava in 6 to 13 foot high plumes.

Despite the harsh conditions, danger of volcanic eruption and extreme heat, Erta Ale has become something of a tourist destination in recent times as it is now possible to drive within 4.3 miles of the volcano.

DARTFORD LIVING


SCHOOL LIFE:The Perspective of an InsiderPHYSICAL BULLYING

Physical bullying is when someone targets another person (normally if they are smaller than they are) and attacks them by spitting, biting, punching, tripping, slapping, pushing and/or kicking. This allows the bully to be in charge and control their victim. This type of bullying is mainly carried out, but not exclusively, by boys.

This type of bullying is much easier to deal with, as it is harder to deny if someone has been physically bullying. It is normally seen by a lot of people. Most students know this is wrong and will report it. In some instances, you see marks on the victim. This type of incident

would go straight to our bullying policy and be sanctioned appropriately.

As hard as it is to say this to your child, don’t encourage them to fght back. Otherwise, they may get in trouble, which isn’t fair and very frustrating to the student and parents. Tell them to avoid the bully and react as little as possible. Bullies want the victim to react, so they have a reason to be physical to the victim. Obviously, if the victim is in a situation where they can’t leave or walk away, then (this is me speaking as a parent) they have the right to defend themselves if they are at risk of being hit. It might be worth looking up the defnition of defending yourself so that the victim does not get into trouble for being physical as well.

Speak to your school straight away if physical bullying is happening to your child. It is unacceptable for this to happen. No one has the right to physically touch anyone. Violence or being assaulted is illegal, so in extreme and rare circumstances, contact the police or school Liaison Offcer.

A useful website: http://www.nspcc.org.uk/help-and-advice/worried-about-a-child/online-advice/bullying/bullying-a_wda87098.html

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