dartford living april 2015

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

What’s Inside...

Mayor’sCharity Ballpage 18

Local Business:Dimples NurseryPage 21

Charity Focus:BroomhillPlaygroupPage 36

Memorial benches unveiled page 22

April 2015 - Issue 106www.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.

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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 April 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............................................ Useful numbers 18.......................................Mayor’s Charity Ball 19......................................Post Box Brent Lane20... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .EcoCleen21.................................... Dimples Day Nursery22........................................Memorial Benches23........................................... Local Rotarians28......................................Dear Dartford Living29..................................................Cold Callers30..................................................Local Crafts32 ................................................Micromakers36................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................................................Sports News43 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . F oo tGo l f43.........................................Sporting Comment44............................Interview with Cheryl Baker45.................................................Competition

AdvertisingWe offer amazing value advertising with adverts starting from just £26 per month. The advertising deadline for the next issue is 10th April

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

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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.................................................. 22P Clark .................................................................38Steve Cook - Double Glazing ...............................................16SJC Fencing ......................................................................19MSB Conversions ..............................................................26

CLEANING/DRY CLEANERSEcoCleen ...........................................................................27

COSMETIC, BEAUTY & HEALTHDia Wipes .............................................................17

EDUCATIONKip McGrath ....................................................................29

ENTERTAINMENT VENUEWoodlands...................................................................35

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

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

FASHIONAhadi Fashion .............................................................33

GARAGES & VEHICLE SERVICESShenley Road Garage .........................................................39Chipsaway................................................................37

GARDENING SERVICESKaren Howell ................................................................26Hawley Garden Centre .......................................................41

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

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

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

MEMBER OF PARLIMENTLabour Parlimentary Candidate...........................................24LOGISTICSFD TRANSPORT ...........................................................47

MUSIC/DANCE & SPORTS/FITNESSAdult Dance Classes..........................................................12Dartford Bootcamps ...........................................................4Dartford Wing Chung .........................................................25Peaches Personal Training .....................................................4Monkey Music ...........................................................7Roundel Recording Studio ...................................................26

NURSERYDimples....................................................................... 37 OPTICIANSLinklater Opticians ............................................................16

PICTURE FRAMINGCraft Frames ............................................................39

PLASTERERSCraig Baker ..................................................................34TheatreWoodvile Theatre................................................................48


...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:10.15am-11.15am - an hour of messy play and creative activities for 2-5 year olds. St Mary’s Greenhithe Church Hall,

London Road, Greenhithe. £4.50 per child. For further information and to book, please emailus at [email protected] or call

07851 150593.

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...



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]

Hartley Swimclub at White Oak Pool, Swanley

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

members. Why not give us a try?Contact Diane on 01689 871846 or join us one

Thursday.

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

Wednesday of each month,. They raise funds for charity and usually invite a speaker. Join them and enjoy meeting and making new friends. If you would like more information please contact Iris

(Secretary) on 01474 703448

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 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

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]

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

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


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



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




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On Saturday 28th February 2015 the Mayor of Dartford Cllr AvtarSandhu MBE hosted his much anticipated Charity Ball at the Orchard Theatre. The event was in aid of his 31 different charities, groups and organisations to add to the £31,000 he had alreadyraised for them in his first 9 months as Mayor. The Ball was well attended by approximately 250 guests which included other Mayor’s from neighbouring boroughs, the leader of the Council Cllr Jeremy Kite, local businessmen and women as well as a great range of supporters for the Mayor.

Those who had bought a ticket were treated to a 3-course Indian or Alternative meal, entertainment in the form authenticInd ian Bhangra dancers and a DJ as we l l as a commemora t i v e b r ochu re wh i ch ou t l i n ed Av t a r Sandhu MBE’s year in o f f i ce . The b rochure no t only outlined the Mayoral year, but also advertised a range of local businesses with all profits being added to the fundraising total.

Upon arrival, guests were greeted by a four tiered cake which had the 31 different logos of the causes the Mayor is fundraising for. The cake, made by Cakarama, was accompanied by 4 cadets of two local groups who were assigned on the night to check guests in. The Mayor’s Ball was well suppor ted by a range o f l oca l bus inesses who prov ided the i r ser v ices to the Mayor to he lp in areas from printing to photography, videography to dancing. Without the help and support of the local community who the Mayor strives to help, the event would not have been the same.

Local businesses also donated a range of prizes for a raff le which included ‘The Taste of Dartford’ (12 mea ls f o r 2 i n 12 d i f f e ren t venues th roughou t

Dartford), a spirit hamper, a perfume set and more. The raff le raised a great sum of money as guests looked to be in with a chance of winning the great prizes.

The night was an overwhelming success with a great sum of money being ra ised through t icket sa les, the raffle and on the spot donations by some of the attendees.

The Mayor o f Da r t f o rd C l l r Av ta r Sandhu MBE, who spoke on the night of his thanks to the local community and businesses, said ‘I am overwhelmed at the support that was shown on the n ight and in the lead up to the Charity Ball by a range of people and bus inesses . The n igh t was a huge success and we a l l wo r ked t og e t h e r t o r a i s e a g r ea t amount of money for the 31 charit ies, groups and organisat ion. I now look forward to cont inuing my suppor t to Dar t ford as a whole in my remain ing months as Mayor.’

Mayor of Dartford’s Charity Ball an Overwhelming Success


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A postbox has stood on the corner of Brent Lane and Brentlands Drive for well over fifty years. A couple of years ago it was suddenly removed, apparently to aid the sale of the propertywhich it had stood outside for all those years.

I was concerned about this loss of amenity particularly as there are a number of elderly people in the area including a number residing in the nearby retirement apartments. The nearest alternative postboxes are situated in The Brent and in Darenth Road. Both these locations require a considerable walk with gradients to cope with which (I can testify!) become more of a challenge with advancing years.

Upon becoming elected to represent the people of Brent Wardin last November’s by-election, I approached the Royal Mail to see whether they were prepared to either reinstate the postboxin its original location or, alternatively, to erect it in another positionclose by. Their response was not encouraging to say the least. They maintain they have a statutory obligation to meet as regards the siting of postboxes and that this obligation is still being satisfied despite the loss of our postbox.

It seems to me that this ‘bean-counting’ attitude is just not goodenough and takes no account of the views and convenienceof customers. The cost of posting a letter is quite significant these days and I would have thought the Royal Mail would be far more interested in encouraging the use of the post rather than driving people towards alternative methods of communication. Anyway, I intend appealing this decision and am busy collecting names on a petition to support this. If anyone in the immediate area would like to sign the petition and has not yet beenapproached could they please contact me on 01322 291979 or 077598 792366.

Postbox on the corner of Brent Lane and Brentlands Drive by Cllr Rosanna Currans

20 Please mention Dartford Living when contacting our advertisers 20 Please mention Dartford Living when contacting our advertisers Interested in advertising? Tel: 01322 507817

Featured Local BusinessesEcocleen’s goal is to create a fresh, clean, hygienic and safe environment for you, your colleagues and your clients. We live up to our name by being completely green and “Eco”. We utilise market leading equipment and eco-friendly supplies to deliver a safe and secure service in almost every environment. We clean thoroughly and effectively without chemicals. No safety issues, no safeguarding problems, no toxins and no strong smell.

What is the first impression a “would be” customer has when he calls in at your premises? Does your office/factory/shop/waiting area/clinic convey a positive image? Do your premises endorse your brand as a professional entity; that not only cares about its working environment, but also the effect it has on all stakeholders and the wider community? Do you impress?“Going green” is not just a service, but rather a journey that businesses are taking in an ever changing modern world. It means more than just protecting the planet; it stretchesto protecting staff and clients as well.

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commercial cleaning and service company. If you’re thinking about switching to an earth-friendly work space, then we invite you to make us prove that we’re up for the task. We love a challenge! We pull the best from every division to give you first-class service and outcomes. By blending innovation, superior management, expert staff, modern equipment,green supplies and national coverage, we can bring you all your service needs in one place.

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Why do you need a website? It is all well and good me saying that I create affordable websites but unless you understand why a website is a valuable tool for your business, and a cheap form of advertising, I may as well have tried to sell you a chocolate teapot! Websites are a must for almost all businesses in this digital age as a potential customer is more likely to use a search engine ie. Google, to find a business/product, rather than pick up the yellow pages or look in a newspaper ads section. If you do use offline advertising a website can be used to support the ads placed as it allows customers to find out more information about the business in their own time and maybe make a purchase if the site allows. 85% of the British population use the internet with 67% of these people using the internet to shop online (source ons.org) so if you do not have a presence on the internet there is a lot of potential business that you are missing out out. You are also restricting your business to your local area whereas the internet can make sure business global. Some benefits of having a website include:

- No geographical boundaries (I have clients in Australia, Scotland and all over the UK)- Business is open 24/7- Saves you money as a website is generally cheaper than advertising and lasts longer.- Content is always up to date- Cheap market research using surveys and aps on the website.- Potential Increase in business- Allows the customer to find out about the business in their own time. - You can also be more detailed than in an advert as there is more space.

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Obesity in children is a huge topic at the moment (excuse the pun!) and the problem is only getting bigger. There are many contributing factors (including poor diet, lack of exercise, poor role modelling from parents and lack of education) that lead to obesity and it is a problem throughout society. At Dimples, we believethat educating children from a very young age is a powerful tool in the fight against obesity. ALL Dimples children experience healthy, exciting outdoor activities every single day-whatever the weather. It becomes embedded in their routine and it is a part of their daily lives. Balanced, nutritional, home cooked meals are served throughout the day and children learn about planting, growing, harvesting and cooking by experiencing things first hand. They learn about self care and hygiene, they brush their teeth at nursery and they learn to independently dress and toilet. They drink only milk or water at nursery and we do not serve dried fruit as a snack as it is a major cause of tooth decay. We work closely with parents and we share ideas and encourage routines that promote children’s well being as well as their learning. Staff and parents are encouraged to stay fit and healthy too and many attend the Fusion Fitness Boot camp sessions held here at the nursery. Charlotte the personal trainer teaches nursery children fitness and holds boot camp sessions for holiday club

children and adult sessions too. Children encourage their parents and parents encourage their children and exercise is a regular conversation topic at nursery. Dimples children think nothing of walking to the woods, climbing trees for an hour and then walking back. The NHS recommends that children under 5 years should do 3 hours exercise every day. Dimples children do this without even thinking about it. Our fit, healthy and enthusiastic children experience healthy eating and fitness from a very young age. It is a part of who they are and parents of children here are very supportive. We believe that Dimples children will take these early skills and ideas with them through life and we hope that they will continue to grow into fit and healthy young adults. For more information please contact Dimples by emailing [email protected] or Fusion Fitness on [email protected]

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Local News Memorial Benches Unveiled in Central Park

Two special memorial benches have been installed in Dartford’s Central Park as a tribute to those who lost their lives in war and to salute the courage of the men and women currently serving in the armed services.

They were unveiled on the 11th March at 11am by Council Leader Jeremy Kite, Mayor Avtar Sandhu MBE and a number of War Veterans

The benches are part of Dartford Council’s continuing commitment to honour the armed services and Council Leader Jeremy Kite says he is delighted by the hundreds of responses received in response to a recent appeal to show support for modern servicemen and women. Councillor Kite said, “Our great country asks a huge amount of our armed services, just as we have done throughout history. We have commissioned these new benches to show that we will never forget the sacrifice made by so many and also to demonstrate the huge commitment of Dartford people to honour those serving today. They are a fine addition to the memorial gardens in Central Park and I thank the hundreds of local people who took the time to pledge their support.”

Dartford Council has received hundreds of pledges of support for the country’s Armed Forces online at www.dartford.gov.uk/memorialbench and the Council Leader has confirmed that the page will remain open for the present.“It’s been great to see so many people saying how much they appreciate all our armed services and, we hope that more will continue to do so. When it’s all done, we will present the names of all those who have pledged support to Dartford Museum so that future generations will be able to research how the new benches came about and how many people wanted them.”

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

LOCAL ROTARIANS CLIMB THE DOME TO MARK FINAL PUSH AGAINST POLIO

Local Rotarians from around the country to climb the 02 Dome in London to celebrate Rotary’s 110th Birthday and raise the flag for End Polio Now Campaign Event celebrates the success of the global polio campaign for which Rotary GBI has raised over £20 million to date.

On February 23rd 2015, to celebrate Rotary’s continued efforts to put an end to polio and to celebrate Rotary’s 110th birthday,140 Rotarians and friends from around the U.K., climbed the dome to continue their fundraising for the global polio campaign for which Rotary GBI has raised a massive £21million to date.On one o f the c l imbs the ‘End Po l i o Now’ f l ag w a s r a i s e d h i g h a b o v e t h e c a p i t a l ’s s k y k i n e .

Marilyn Kingham from the Rotary Club of Dartford who took part in the climb comments, “It was an exhilirating experience. We encountered blue skies, sleet, very strong winds during our climb but the views were spectacular from the viewing station. It was very interesting to see how London’s skyline has changed over the last 20 years and well worth the climb. I would recommend it if you can stand heights.

Since the launch of ‘End Polio Now’ in 1985 the amount of endemic countries has decreased from 125 to just three; Afghanistan, Pakistan and Nigeria. In the past 12 months Nigeria has also seen no recorded cases since July, sparking hope that it too will be declared Polio free in the near future.Vice President Elect of Rotary GBI, Eve Conway, explains: “The walk is a great way to celebrate the incredible efforts of Rotarians in Great Britain and Ireland, but also across the globe, to try and eradicate polio for good. With only three affected countries left, one of which has seen no new cases since July, our dream of a polio free world is now within our grasp.”

Also benefitting from sponsorship raised will be the new ‘Walk For Water’ initiative, which aims to provide those in less developedcountries with barrels to help them transport water more easily.Organiser of the climb Adrian Brewer continues: “We organised the climb of the O2 Arena to mark both our continued efforts in the fight against polio and walk for water and to celebrate Rotary’s 110th Anniversary. As part of this, we have literally flown the ‘End Polio Now’ campaign flag high above the capital’s skyline. I would like to urge the British public to get behind Rotary and help make history by ridding the world of this disease forever.”

If you are interested in joining Rotary please contact [email protected] who will be able to give you a list of local clubs that you can go an visit.

The Loss of the Bluebell by Debbie Fryer

How sad that I won’t be able, as a Forest School leader, to

inspire a child to look up conker, ivy, ash and dandelion in their dictionary anymore. Yet their replacements – blog, broadband, chat room, voice mail and MP3 player will be available.

As leading nature writer Robert Macfarlane recently pointed out inhis February Guardian write up – the latest edition of the Oxford JuniorDictionary has “culled words concerning nature”.

What’s more concerning is the thought that children will not need to know what a bluebell is in the future. Can we have a re-think? Let’s take our children for a spring walk in a wood stunningly carpeted in bluebells – or, in the case of our very own wood, a carpet of violets instead. Beautiful nature at its best.

To find Dartford’s Enchanted Woodland – just follow this linkhttp://www.templehilltrust.org.uk/tht/the-enchanted-woodland/


Simon Thomson Labour’s Parliamentary Candidate for Dartford

✓ A New Start for Dartford Town Centre

✓ Protecting our National Health Service

✓ Getting Dartford Moving ✓ Giving Young People a Future ✓ Helping with the Cost of Living

Promoted by Pat Kelly on behalf of Simon Thomson both at DCLP, 99 Kent Road, Dartford DA1 2AJ

Dartford desperately needs a fresh start.

As a BBC journalist, I'm used to asking tough questions.

And as your MP, I will be a strong voice for Dartford.

We should be supporting young people to open new businesses in the town centre, making better use of the Thames, and with the high-speed rail link and motorway network, attracting companies who are looking to relocate.

Vote Labour in Dartford on May 7th

My Pledges for Dartford

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Simon Thomson for Dartford


Simon Thomson Labour’s Parliamentary Candidate for Dartford

✓ A New Start for Dartford Town Centre

✓ Protecting our National Health Service

✓ Getting Dartford Moving ✓ Giving Young People a Future ✓ Helping with the Cost of Living

Promoted by Pat Kelly on behalf of Simon Thomson both at DCLP, 99 Kent Road, Dartford DA1 2AJ

Dartford desperately needs a fresh start.

As a BBC journalist, I'm used to asking tough questions.

And as your MP, I will be a strong voice for Dartford.

We should be supporting young people to open new businesses in the town centre, making better use of the Thames, and with the high-speed rail link and motorway network, attracting companies who are looking to relocate.

Vote Labour in Dartford on May 7th

My Pledges for Dartford

[email protected]

01322 220772

@simontthomson

www.teamdartford.co.ukwww.dartfordlabourparty.org.uk

Simon Thomson for Dartford

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Dear Dartford Living

My fiance Liam Davis is a currently serving soldier in the Princess of Wales’ Royal Regiment. He’s been in the Territorial Army for 8 years, has completed two tours of Afghanistan and has recently transferred to the regular full time army. He was raised in Dartford and has lived here all his life, and now with me and our 2 small children. When not away training or deployed, he remains here with us.

This month he will be taking part in the London Marathon, no mean feat by itself, but he has decided to carry 25kg of weight in a bergan, plus approximately 5kg of water whilst he does it! He will be ‘running’ (I say that loosely, more of a fast walk!) the marathon in army kit, wearing boots (no comfy trainers for Liam!) and the branding of his chosen charity, Against Breast Cancer.

He decided to support Against Breast Cancer last year, as his Grandmother Bridget has successfully beaten cancer twice, as well as suffering the loss of his former Sgt Major to a different form of cancer in 2014. He appreciates the struggle and pain cancer sufferers and their families go through and wanted to do something to help. Against Breast Cancer gladly accepted him onto their team and his fundraising began!

He has so far taken part in several half marathons, including last years Dartford Half where he took a ‘start line selfie’ with the Mayor of Dartford. He increases his weight gradually, and all was going well until an injury struck in October during the Oxford Half. He completed it anyway, and has been in recovery since, only recently being passed fit to commence training again, both with the army and for the marathon.

People can donate towards his £2000 fundraising target on his justgiving page www.justgiving.com/liamdavis88 Every penny counts and both Liam & Against Breast Cancer will be so greatful for the support. Give him a cheer if you see him on marathon day!

Hayley

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After being a stay at home mum for the last 10 years and enjoying catering for her own children’s parties with sweet treats, as well as organising friend’s baby showers and hen night events. Carla thought she could turn something that she thoroughly enjoyed into a business venture and created Carla’s sweets and treats.

Carla has been lucky enough to have a constant flow of orders and lots of dates in the diary for future bookings and events within the local community, some of which she has personally been scouted for. Word of mouth is vital in any business and Carla is so pleased with the wonderful feedback she receives from her customers, with some even booking their orders up to a year in advance. Carla also works alongside two local established and highly successful businesses in providing their sweet cones for customers. No request is too big, and Carla ensures she can provide for any dietary requirements, catering even recently for a soya and dairy free customer.

Carla offers a full range of sweet treats, including, a variety of cones including kids character favourites such as frozen, marvels avengers, spiderman and lots more, sweetie cakes, sweet trees, she also has fabulous products to hire out, such as her 5 tier sweetie shot tower, a gorgeous ferrero rocher heart, her mini sweet shop and recently adding a mini candy cart and candy bar to her collection along with her sweetie table.Due to the high quality of sweets Carla sources, she is able to cater for any event or occasion, whilst ensuring she keeps her prices very fair and reasonable. All of Carla’s work can be located on her

facebook page which has been her main source of advertising.

Carla supports local charit ies such as the Demelza Children’s Hospice, and has also arranged charity events for the Children’s Heart Foundation. She recently undertook the British Heart Foundations fundraising for the month of March of not eating chocolate...not an easy task in her trade!Carla prides herself on giving each customer’s order a personalised touch to ensure full customer satisfaction is guaranteed. She holds a 5* hygiene certificate from the local authority and keeps up to date on all food and health safely regulations and has full liability insurance.

Car la can be next seen a t the fo l lowing events :Getthrifty craft fairs, Freemantle Hall, Bexley Village, 20th June 10-3pmS t M a r y s p l a y g r o u p , B a r n e h u r s t , T B AST Josephs School , Barnehurst 4th Ju ly 11-3pmFind Carla on facebook: carla’s Sweetz & Treatz or call on 07939 176734come 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

Carla’s Sweetz & Treatz


01322 836 686

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

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Cress Head

Instructions: 1. When you’ve had an egg for breakfast, you’ll need to keep the shell. 2. Be sure you’ve eaten all of it, any left will start to smell. 3. Draw on it a funny face, and maybe stick on eyes. 4. Use felt tip pens or poster paint, and leave until it dries. 5. A ball of cotton wool inside the shell is what we need. 6. Now dampen it with water, and then sprinkle on some seed. 7. Place it in an egg cup near a window, somewhere sunny. 8. In three days time it’s hair will sprout, and make it look so funny.

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Materials: • 1 x Egg • 1 x Egg cup • 1 x Packet of cress seeds • 1 x Cotton wool ball • 1 x Pair of googly eyes • Felt tip pens • Poster paint • Water

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

Kids Zone

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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]

Broomhill Pre-school is a charity run pre-school which is registered with Ofsted. We are located in West Dartford on Broomhill Road. It has been running in the region of nearly 50 years, although there is no official record to confirm

this, it has come from the testimonies of the locals!

We are a committee run pre-school who are very active and dedicated to fundraising. We hold various events during the year to raise vital funds for our pre-school and welcome Parent/Carer involvement.Broomhill has access to a large and secure garden which is used in all weathers. We undertake an extensive range of activities including crafts, dressing up, role play and free expression with play dough, sand and water. When the opportunity arises we undertake fully supervised visits to local places of interest.

The pre-school is open during normal school term time.

The current hours of opening are: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 9:30am – 12:00pm. Wednesday 9:30am – 2.30pm (3yr olds Free Early Education). We also provide a Rising 4/5s sessions on Monday, Tu e s d a y a n d T h u r s d a y 1 2 : 3 0 p m t o 3 . 0 0 p m .

Above all the pre-school is run for the children’s benefit, in a safe and secure location by trained and understanding staff with the aim of providing an extensive range of interesting activities that will help your child’s early school years.

Contact us

Tel no: 07866320664 email us: [email protected]


We need the people of Dartford to help a neighbour.

BefriendWe have over 19 isolated and lonely older people wa i t i ng f o r a be f r i ende r i n t he Da r t f o rd a r ea . Jo, one of our Befrienders was matched with Betty in October 2014We asked Jo what attracted her to becoming a befriender. “ I watched a TV programme about volunteering. I t insp i red me to do someth ing in my communi ty” .Jo visits Betty once a week for a couple of hours, “I felt a connection with Betty straightaway. I feel like I have known Betty for years and she feels like one of the family. So far I have only visited Betty at home, but once the weather improves, we may go out”.We a s k e d B e t t y i f h a v i n g a b e f r i e n d e r h a d changed he r l i f e . “Oh yes , I f ee l mo re a l i v e ” .

DriveWe have over 200 registered clients in the Dartford area who use our community transport service to get to and from the doctors. There are times when we have to tell them that we cannot help through lack of volunteer drivers. This can result in them not attending vital medical appointments.

John one of our valued drivers said. “When I first joined volunteer driving nearly 17 years ago I was totally unaware of the fun and enjoyment I would get from doing something for others. Everyone is so grateful with lots of thanks and smiles, but what they don’t realise is that I gain so much as well. I enjoy the company and chatting about different aspects of life, it often puts things into perspective and I realise how fortunate I am and what wonderful clients we have.”Help us by using your car to drive them to and from their appointments, and be paid 45p per mile for the privilege of meeting our lovely clients.

GardeningGardening is one of the most satisfying tasks around the home, but it is heart breaking when you can do nothing but watch your once loved garden go to weed. Why not help a neighbour to maintain their garden and bring it back to its former glory. One of our clients in Meadowside said. “ I know my garden is small, but it looks so much better when it’s neat and tidy. Suzanne is a regular now and I look forward to her visits.”For more information on any of these projects please contact North West Kent Volunteer Centre on 01322 272476 or emai l : vo [email protected]

Help a Neighbour By North West Kent Volunteer Centre

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]


BMW reveals hybrid X5 – The hybrid BMW X5 has been revealed, and will make its public debut at the New York motor show in April 2015. The model, dubbed xDrive 40e, features a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine working in conjunction with a single electric motor. The hybrid X5 comes with a combined system output of 309bhp and combined fuel consumption of up to 85.6mpg, with CO2 emissions of 77g/km. Boot space is reduced due to the battery in the rear, over the standard X5 by 150 litres, meaning there’s 500 litres of storage space on offer. The recharging time is put at 2 hours 48 minutes on an optional 3.5kW wallbox that operates at 16 amperes and 230 volts. Further details, including costs, are expected later this year.

2015 Range Rover Evoque – Key changes to the popular Evoque faclift includes a new front bumper, larger air intakes, two new grille designs (depending on specification), all-LED adaptive headlamps and new alloy wheel designs. The rear features a new tailgate spoiler and high-level LED brake light. Inside, the revised car features new seats, door casings, new soft-touch materials and a greater choice of colours. The revised Range Rover Evoque comes with Jaguar Land Rover’s new four-cylinder, 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine, the most efficient they do. The most economical version, the two-wheel-drive, 148bhp, equipped with a manual transmission, will deliver a claimed 68mpg and diesel with 178bhp returning 59mpg. The Evoque comes with a long list of standard and optional kit. New for this refreshed version is Land Rover’s 8.0in

touchscreen-based infotainment system, InControl Touch, on SE-spec cars. pricing to be confirmed until later in the year. Land Rover sources indicate that prices, when released, will be comparable with the current model, which start at just over £29,000 and will go on sale later this year.

Toyota Mirai – Toyota’s new hydrogen fuel cell-powered FCV will be called the Mirai when it goes on sale in this summer. The Toyota Mirai will be the company’s first hydrogen fuel cell car with two hydrogen fuel tanks and a range of about 300 miles. The hydrogen fuel cell is the only setup available with the Mirai, and it develops the equivalent of about 153bhp. The only emissions from the car itself are water, and Toyota says that it will take around three minutes to refuel at a filling station.Initially, there will be around 15 filling stations around London and the south east, but there are plans to grow this to about 65 stations in the next few years. It is expected to come with a climate control, a rear parking camera, sat-nav, LED headlights and man-made leather upholstery. The safety kit is set to include a pre-crash system, an adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning and lane-change assist. The final pricing for the Mirai has not been confirmed in the UK, but the European version is expected to cost €66,000 plus local taxes. This would translate to a price of around £60,000.

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 •

Brickwork • Plastering • Electrical Installations• Extensions & Loft Conversions Project Managed

Fully Qualified TradesmenElectrical NICEIC Registered

Plumbing Gas Safe Registered 38 Please mention Dartford Living when contacting our advertisers Interested in advertising? Tel: 01322 507817 www.dartfordliving.com Dartford Living 39

Tips for small businesses

Small Business Rates Relief

In the Autumn Statement it was announced that Small Business Rates Relief in its current form would be extended into 2015/16. A business which occupies a property with a rateable value of less than £12,000 and occupies only one property or occupies two properties, each having a rateable value of below £2,599 is eligible for Small Business Rates Relief.

If the small business occupies a property with a rateable value of less than £6,000, relief applied would be 100%. If the rateable value is between £6,001 and£12,000, a s l id ing scale f rom 100% to 0% is applied. To claim this relief, the local council will require a form to be signed and returned to them. It is a criminal offence to apply for relief which is not allowable.

The Small Business Rates Relief is applicable to the

p rope r t y and no t t o t he bus iness . The re f o re i f a c o m p a n y m o v e s p r e m i s e s t h e y w o u l d have to apply again if appropriate.There is also a new Retail Relief available in respect of properties with a rateable value of less than£50,000. This is available for properties which are ma in l y used fo r the sa le o f goods , p rov id ing a service or selling of food/drinks to the public. Retail Relief allows companies to obtain up to £1,000 off the rates bill during the 2014/15 rating year. The Chancellor a lso announced in the Autumn Sta tement that the Reta i l Re l ie f wou ld cont inue fo r 2015/16 and would be increased to £1,500.

All small businesses should consider the relief they can obtain from business rates.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 professional advice for small businesses..

(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



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

You’ve probably heard bodybuilders banging on about “protein”; eating dozens of chicken breasts and downing nasty tastin shakes. But is this relevant for You? Yes.Proteins are the macronutrients that will build/rebuild/repair your muscles (and hormones, and enzymes, and more…), not just after exercise, but in the constant remodelling process that’s continually going on in your body too.If you fail to eat enough protein, your exercise efforts will likely be wasted to some degree and any efforts to gain strength and muscle size will also be hindered, since proteins are constantly being used in the body and the only way to replace them is through diet.So how much protein should you beeating?

As a general rule of thumb, the minimum amount (simply to prevent deficiency) for a sedentary adult is 0.8g protein per kg bodyweight. However, if you exercise, have a manual job, or want to build muscle/strength, many experts recommend much higher amounts. As much as 2-2.5g per kg bodyweight is not uncommon.

For weight loss, I would recommend you establish your protein requirement (say, bodyweight in kg X 1.8) and make sure you eat that amount every day without fail (spread between meals and snacks). Never reduce this number regardless of your “calorie” goal. Once you have your protein amount set, you can manipulate your carbohydrates and fats to achieve your daily calorie goals.

For muscle gain, do the same except maybe add some extra protein (maybe bodyweight in kg X 2), and again, manipulate your carbs and fats in order to reach your daily calorie goal. Eating more protein will help slow down your digestion and balance energy levels, keeping you fuller for longer, and meaning you’ll likely snack less, and eat less of the “bad” foods. So work out your daily protein goal, and set out to hit that target every day. You should start to notice the difference soon enough.

If you need more help, visit www.DartfordBootcamps.com for information on Personal Training, Nutrition Coaching, and Bootcamp classes.

Protein for Fat Loss and Muscle Gain.

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

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

Plant of the Month - Rhododendron

Summer bedding Pick out seedlings of tender bedding plants and pot

up young plug plants and cuttings so that they can grow into sturdy plants ready for planting out once the fear of frosts has passed. Always use fresh potting compost and make sure that seed trays, pots and cell trays are thoroughly cleaned – or buy

some new ones. Plants will need hardening off before planting out, and they can be protected from cold, wind and light frosts with horticultural fleece.

Vegetables To ensure tasty, early vegetables this year, buy your

growing-bags now and put them in the shed, garage or greenhouse so that the compost can warm up ready for planting up later. You can put young tomato,

pepper, cucumber and other plants into growing-bags – or 9 to 10 inch pots of compost – as soon as they’re big enough to transplant. And don’t forget that these plants will need some support while they’re growing.

Pest watch As the weather warms up, pests and diseases

will be stirring in the garden. Keep on top of any problems that do occur to ensure they don’t get out of control – early eradication is the key to success. Ready-to-use sprays do away with fiddly mixing and ensure you have something ready to deal with the problems as soon as they’re seen. Slugs and snails are also a nuisance at this time of year because almost all new leaves are soft, lush and good food for them. Sprinkle slug pellets, place barriers, or water a liquid slug killer around all susceptible plants such as hostas, delphiniums and vegetables.

Clean Up Make sure you’ve carried out any cleaning and repair

jobs. Clean the patio and greenhouse, preserve and stain wooden features, and clean out water butts.

Gardening

(Solution on page 46)

Gardening Hints and Tips - April

in association with

A superb furniture collection designed by

Katie Blake Here at Hawley Garden Centre

1000’s of Home Grown Bedding plants, Basket plants, Vegetable plants and Herbs plants

* Large range of standard & purpose made models * Full range of site services including erecting, base laying

site levelling * Free Site Survey in most areas

Hawley Garden Centre, Hawley Road, Dartford, Kent, DA2 7RB www.hawleygardencentre.co.uk.co.uk Tel: 01322 229521

Local Sports News


Dartford FC and The Leigh Academy

Dartford Football Club is joining with neighbouring school, The Leigh Academy, to give students the opportunity to continue working towards

their A-Levels whilst pursuing their passion in Football.

Phil Murray (Head of DFC Youth Development) and Sean Scolding (DFC Community Lead) have been working alongside Simon Beamish (Leigh Academies Trust CEO), Sue Crocker (Leigh Academies Trust Business Director) and Sharon Waterman (Leigh Academy Principal) in order for the scheme to come together. With The Leigh Academy and Dartford FC being located next door to each other it was an opportunity that no one involved could miss out on and a chance to create an ongoing partnership.

Dartford FC already has an Academy in place which runs in partnership with SCL and offers students the chance to gain BTECs along with qualifications and experience in football. Due to many young adults aspiring to go to university after their school education is over, the necessity of A Levels is something that students would currently miss out on at Dartford. The new partnership with The Leigh Academy

now enables those who have a passion for football to continue their studies towards the qualifications they need whilst receiving regular training and coaching from highly qualified FA coaches affiliated to the football club, plus the opportunity to represent the club at levels between Youth Conference Alliance and College Football Teams with the possibility of progressing into the First Team or higher.

With A Levels such as Biology, Media Studies and P.E. to choose from there is a suitable variety of options available for any candidate who is interested in the scheme. In order for students to gain their place on the course they must obtain 5 GCSEs grade A-C including Maths and English. Once their academic application is successful they will be offered a trial at Dartford Football Club.

At the official press launch for the event on Wednesday 4th March it was a chance for everyone involved to come together and celebrate the partnership created. Dartford FC Co-Chairman Steve Irving and Cllr Jeremy Kite, who is a Director of both Dartford FC and the Leigh Academy Trust, was in attendance to support the scheme along with DFC First Team Manager Tony Burman who will be working closely with the Academy Team that is formed of the successful candidates in September.

DARTFORD VALLEY RFC Youth Rugby Launch Day12th April 201510am-onwards

TEAMWORK-RESPECT-FUN-DISCIPLINE-SPORTSMANSHIP

DVRFC has been working over the last 6 months to prepare for thelaunch of a new Youth Section at the club. We are now proud to announce the dates and details for the launch event.

We have gained support for the RFU, local businesses and the borough council. We have also gained financial support froma number of generous sponsors and your children will benefit directly from these funds - subsidised kit, the best equipment,trained coaches and much, much more.

Please support us & your local community - Bring your family, friends and most importantly as many kids as you can!Boys and Girls - any age .. we have planned areas for all ages/

experience .. from tiny tots funzone (3-5yrs) to RFU coaching clinic (up to 16yrs).

It is going to be a great day - we have lots planned and the kids are guaranteed a lot of fun ... BBQ / Bouncy Castle / Activityareas / Obstacle Course .. with our qualified coaching team andRFU / Raffle / Music.. and much more.

Each child will be given a very special Welcome Pack with Goodies, Information, Adidas t-shirt, RFU Freebie, Drink and Snack - We are asking for a £5/child voluntary contribution for launch day participation - with half of the raised funds going to the club to fund the day and half going to our supported Charities (EllenorLions ChYps children’s hospice and The British Legion Poppy appeal).

Sponsored by: - Bluewater Shopping Centre - Wynne Electrical- EMD - Londis Bexley - Dartford Borough Council

We look forward to seeing you on the 12th April for a great day!

FA Trophy 1st Round

13th Dec, 3.00pm(TBC)

Braintree26th Dec, TBCpm

Bav’s Sporting Comment

Upcoming events in April include:

9-11: Horse racing - Grand National Meeting Aintree9-12: Golf - Masters, Augusta, Georgia11: Rowing - Boat Race (men’s and women’s races)12: F1 - Chinese Grand Prix, Shanghai12: Cricket - County Championship season starts13-17: Cricket - West Indies v England first Test, Antigua18-19: Football - FA Cup semi-final, Wembley18-4 May: World Snooker Championship, Sheffield19: F1 - Bahrain Grand Prix, Sakhir21-25: Cricket - West Indies v England second Test,26: Athletics - London Marathon


Ever since Qatar was announced as, the Football World Cup, host in December 2010, questions have been raised about its ability to host the finals in June and July when the temperature can reach 50 degrees Celsius. So, now we know it will be moved to November and December, a date that UEFA appears to have begrudgingly accepted as the best of a bad bunch. Most European leagues have a winter break that could be moved forward a month to accommodate the finals. The main loser appears to be the English Premier League who will have to find a month long hole in its schedule, plus recovery time. The 2022 dates means English football’s traditional Christmas football period would go out of the window. But would a winter World Cup really be the disaster it is beingpainted as? Surely, as the European nights draw in and in the run up to Christmas, a schedule of international matches on BBC and ITV would be a huge draw? TV ratings records could be smashed. A World Cup in November and December might arguably also provide the impetus for English football to reform itself. The lack of a winter break has meant that the national team rarely performs well at big international tournaments after a long

gruelling season. Germany who won last World Cup, took a six week winter break December to January. Over that time, English Premier League teams played seven league matches, plus cup games. It would be an opportune time to introduce one.

Footgolf by Henry Clark

You’d think something was wrong when you see people turn up to a golf course and gym without either golf clubs or a gym bag.But at Birchwood Golf course a new craze has arrived – footgolf.The origins of Footgolf are unknown but the first tournament held was in the Betherlands in 2008, organised by a man called Michael Jansen. Since then Footgolf has thrived in the UK, with the Birchwood course being one of just over 100 golf courses that has been developed to facilitate Footgolf.The game involves playing on the shorter par 3 course and kicking a football into a specially designed hole just off the putting green, so the golf course is kept protected from the wear and tear of shoes.A round normally lasts about an hour depending on how quickly you play the course, and to still accommodate the golf Footgolf is only permitted after 3 o’clock.

I have played it a few times myself and as a teengaer sometimes the thought of going to a cold, windy golf course isn’t too appealing. But footgolf is a seriously fun game and is much harder than it looks like on the outside. It is great fun, plus it keeps you active. Could you ask for anything more?

youngsportsjourno.wordpress.com

Cheryl Baker - The BIG interview

Early in 1981, four complete strangers sat in the drawing room of a house in Fulham and were told: “you are now Bucks Fizz”.They became household names around the world thanks to to the Eurovision song contest and now the Fizz are back. Cheryl Baker talks to Dartford Living Magazine about the current tourWhat inspired you to tour again?We met w i th a p romote r who conv inced us tha t now was the r ight t ime to get back on the road.

What do you enjoy most about touring?Touring can be tiring but also great fun. You visit places that you may not have seen for years, if ever, and it is great to meet the Fizz fans that have followed you for so long.

How different is it nowadays compared with back in the 80’s?Nowadays touring is much more enjoyable, we are doing it because we want to not because we have a single/album to promote.

Do you still do the ‘skirt ripping’ routine when on stage these days?I am afraid we do!!

How did Bobby McVay become the fourth member for the tour?Bobby was always around back in the early 80’s and so was a good friend of us all. When we looked into going back to four again back in 2007, we rang Bobby as he was our first choice, but he was literally days away from emigrating to Italy. Fortunately for us, he missed performing and rang Mike to see if there were any gigs going on at the same time as we were sorting out the tour. It was almost fate!

Is there a single or album release due in the near future?We have been in negotiations about a single/album, so watch this space!

Tell our readers what they can expect at one of your shows.Your readers can expect 80’s nostalgia, all the Fizz hits, plenty of costume changes, dance routines and, of course, some skirt ripping!

Once the tour is over will you be going back to TV presenting?I love my job because one day I can be singing on stage with Fizz and the next I can be on a cruise ship doing after dinner speaking and the next presenting on television. I love the diversity of my job and wouldn’t have it any other way.

As you live in Kent, do you class the Orchard as performing at your local theatre?Definitely! It’s a fabulous theatre both as a performer and as a member of the audience. I played it last year when I was on tour with Happy Days The Musical and I went to see my husband play with The Counterfeit Stones - he is the bass player. I am really looking forward to performing there with Fizz.

Do you ever go shopping at Bluewater?Oh, I so do! I call it “my beloved Bluewater”! You will regularly see me wandering around shopping there. It’s my hobby!

Family Day at The Orchard Theatre 2015We invite you and your family this Spring to join us for our family day on Sunday 12 April from 10am – 3pm for a fun filled day taking part in a variety of creative workshops. Children will be given the opportunity to enter the fairytale forest and stroll with the storytellers as we celebrate classic fairytales and fables!

The day will include circus skills, arts and crafts, music making workshops, storytelling workshops, family bubble disco, face painting and games & activities. The ticket invites you and your

family to take part in as many adventures as you can as well as joining us for a picnic in the forest with your favourite fairytale characters.

Family Day will take place on Sunday 12 April from 10am – 3pm and tickets cost £8* each which includes lunch, a Family Offer of 4 Tickets for £24* (2 Adults & 2 Children) is also available.

To book tickets or for more information visit orchardtheatre.co.uk or call the Ticket Office on 01322 220000.



Astro StarsA Lunar Eclipse occurring 4th April can last up to 3 months

By Sandy Davies

www.facebook.com/astrodegrees

ARIESYour relationship may come under scrutiny and you will have to face major bumps in

your partnership.

TAURUSYou may decide your job isn’t all that

its cracked up to be and decide to leave for pastures new or you are given the

opportunity for a promotion.

GEMINIIt’s time to either make a commitment in a relationship or to let “this one go” and

look for another that meets more with your ideals.

CANCERThis can bring home projects to a successful conclusion and a family member may fly the

nest, which could be quite emotional.

LEOA relationship with a sibling, neighbour,

friend or mentor may go through a major

change that is emotional, unsettling and may turn your world upside down in the

short term.

VIRGOYou may be reaching a long drawn out

conclusion that ends a financial agreement or arrangement.

LIBRAIt may be hard to make compromises within

a relationship and your patience will certainly be tested.

SCORPIODeciding what to let go off is always hard and you may resist at first but once you

consciously realise it is for the better, you will make great strides.

SAGITTARIUSLetting go of old friends, groups or

organisations that are no longer in your best interest is advisable.

CAPRICORNYou may decide to change careers to

something you value more worthwhile that fits in with your “ethos”.

AQUARIUSYou may feel renewed by a new perspective on your life and these new experiences take

you away from the mundane.

PISCESBe careful around joint finances, check agreement dates and ensure that your

“house is in order” as a sudden bill or fine could arrive.

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

SNOW WHITE ON ICE

WITH THE RUSSIAN ICE STARS TUE 12 - SAT 16 MAY 2015

Ice dancing phenomenon The Russian Ice Stars are set to transform The Orchard Theatre stage into a magical frozen wonderland this May!

The original story of an enchanted mirror, a beautiful girl, the ultimate Prince Charming and a shiny red apple is bought to life on a frozen theatre stage. Featuring a dazzling display of world-class skating, breathtaking aerial aerobatics Snow White on Ice features mesmerising choreography from World, European and Olympic competitors performed on a spectacular set to a wonderful score. Snow White on Ice is a spell-binding show that promises to sparkle with sheer beauty and elegance that will thrill the whole family 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 is not a character from Snow White?

A) DOPEY B) GREEDY C) GRUMPY D) DOC

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

MARCH’S COMPETITION WINNER: DONNA WILSON


£ 12 adults£6 concessions

£ 2 children

Kick off times & further information

can be found atwww.dartfordfc.co.uk

SUDOKUSolution

CLAREMONT DECORATIVE SERVICES• ALL TYPES OF INTERNAL AND

EXTERNAL DECORATING• AROUND THE HOUSE

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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


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

DARTFORD LOCKSMITH

Tel: 01322 552363 or 07966 136605


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dartford living april 2015

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