Dartford Living - February Issue

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

What’s Inside...

Local News:Mayor opens Astronomy centrep22-23

Local Business: Kip McGrathPage 24

Charity FocusStacey Mowle Appeal - Page 35

A Snapshot of Dartford

pages 18,20 and 21

February 2015 - Issue 104www.dartfordliving.comDartford

Living

DARTFORD BUSINESS CENTRE

2 Please mention Dartford Living when contacting our advertisers

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

COMPANY FORMATIONSave tax by forming a private company from as

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

ACCOMMODATION ADDRESSHave a virtual office accommodation address

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

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

week with parking.www.accommodation-address.com

ACCOUNTANCY & TAX SERVICEConradi Morrison & Co specialises in

small clients and provides a top class personal service for a fixed low fee.

Phone for a free meeting to discuss your needs.www.dartfordaccountants.com

PAYLINELet us undertake your payroll and

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

www.payline.org

PROVIDING A FULL SERVICE TO DARTFORD SMALL BUSINESSES

“A Hand Holding Service”

Established35 years

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

Dear Readers,A big February 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! Nearly 4000 local people already do this!

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

3

Editor’s Letter

Contents6-13.................................................. what’s on14........................................ Usefull numbers 18 ....Dartford is beautiful...If you a second to look.20-21 ..................Photography around Dartford22............................ Local Astronomy group22....................... New Lowfield working group24................................................. Kip McGrath 29................................................ Local Crafts31..................................... Max Maker Space35............ Charity Focus - Stacey Mowle appeal36.......... Charity appeal Darent Valley Hospital36........................ Try 111 before A and E37...................................... Automotive News37.............................................. Buss Murton 38............................. Tips for small business40............................................. Gardening tips40......................................................... Fitness41-42................................. Local Sports News43............................................... Coffee Break 44................................................. Astro Stars44.................................................. Competition45................................................. Wow Facts46.............. ..................................School Facts

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

All enquiries

David ShaffordMagazine/ Website design and [email protected]


Front page image - © David Bartholomew 2015

For more information and for more of his photos see page 20-21 and the coffee break section.

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

FREE Class with this ad“I’ve dropped a dress-size, and

so has my husband!”

Sarah P, Dartford

“I’ve lost 2 stone 4 lbs”Amanda L, Dartford

LOSE WEIGHT

GET FITDARTFORD

BOOTCAMPS

*New Customers Only

Index of Advertisers

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

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

BUILDERS, DECORATORS ROOFING, KITCHENS & WINDOWS4k Building Services.........................................................47A Baines & Son Roofing.....................................................34Claremont Decorative Services ..................................46John Hargreaves Building.................................................. 39 P Clark .................................................................40Steve Cook - Double Glazing ...............................................16SJC Fencing ......................................................................19

CLEANING/DRY CLEANERSOven Clean........................................................................25EcoClean ...........................................................................26

COSMETIC, BEAUTY & HEALTHDia Wipes .............................................................17Frenchy’s Beauty ...............................................................19Persona Cosmetic Mediciine ..............................................31

EDUCATIONKip McGrath ....................................................................25Inkpen Club ........................................................................25

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

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

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

FLORESTChelles Florest.............................................................40

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

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

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

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

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

MUSIC/DANCE & SPORTS/FITNESSAdult Dance Classes..........................................................12Dartford Bootcamps ...........................................................4Peaches Personal Training .....................................................4Monkey Music ...........................................................7Roundel Recording Studio ...................................................27

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tuesdays

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

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

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

Sticky Fingers, 9.30-11.30 am £1.50 per adult includes tea ,biscuits and healthy snack time for the children For pre school children up to 4 years

St Mary Greenhithe Church Hall London Road Greenhithe. Contact 01322 382031 or see www.stmarygreenhithe.com

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

ThursdaysThe Vineyard Centre, 24 Market St, Dartford. Contact Jane on 07956 430244 for further details.

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

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

1-2.30pm Toerags Toddler Group - Adult education centre, Dartford £3 per Child - £1 Non Walkers - facebook.com/ToeRags

Fridays

9.30-11am Baby and me for expectant mothers and mothers / carers of chidren up to 2. £1 per adult

St Mary Greenhithe Church Hall, London Road Greenhithe. Contact 01322 382031 or see www.stmarygreenhithe.com

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

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

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

Saturdays

Daddy and Me 9.30.-11.30am A group for dads and male carers of children up to 5years. £1.50 includes healthy snack time for the children.

St Mary Greenhithe Church Hall, London Road Greenhithe. Contact 01322 382031 or see www.stmarygreenhithe.com

Toddler Music & Rhyme SessionsMONDAYS Jo Jingles Music and Movement classes, Holy Trinity Church Hall, High Street, Dartford. Booking needed - phone Gill on 07525 865030. Other days/venues available.MONDAYS 10:30am - 11:00am & Friday 2:15pm - 2:45pm at Dartford Library - Baby Bounce & Rhyme TimeTUESDAYS 2 sessions, from 9.30-10.30am and 10:45 - 11:45am in Fleetdown FC Hall; Heath Lane, Dartford. Contact Judi: 07970 730736. ALSO RUN SAME PLACE/TIME ON THURSDAYSTUESDAYS 10.30m - 11.00am (term time only) at Fleetdown Library - Baby Bounce and Rhyme session. Tel: 08458 247 247.THURSDAYS (term time only) we will be holding 2 sessions - 10.15am & 11am Crayford Rd, Crayford, DA1 4ER. Tel: 020 8303 7777. Also: Coffee and Chat sessions at Temple Hill Library on the First Tues of the month 10am - 12noon.THURSDAYS 10.30am - 11.00am (term time only) at Fleetdown Library - Baby Bounce and Rhyme session. Tel: 08458 247 247.THURSDAYS 2.15 - 2.45pm (term time only) at Greenhithe Library - Baby Bounce and Rhyme session. Tel: 08458 247 247.THURSDAYS 10.45am - 11.15am (term time only) at Longfield Library - Baby Bounce and Rhyme session. Tel: 08458 247 247.

Where to go locally...


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

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

Friday 6th March

Open Surgery (No appointment necessary),

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

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

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

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

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

[email protected] or telephone 020 7219 7047.


YOGA & MEDITATION CLASSESEvery Thursday from 10.30am

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

Hope Group on 07580 615206.Dartford Bellringers

Holy Trinity Church, High Street, Wednesdays

8.00-9.30p.m. Free tuition with a very

friendly, sociable group. The ideal way to make

new friends. Phone Ester 01322 220458 or email:

[email protected]

LEARN KICK BOXING AND KARATE!

Come and Join one of North Kent’s

fastest and most successful Martial

Arts clubs. For more information,

call Saj on 07903 513104 or just

come along to one of our sessions

and join in the fun! With the most

reasonable fees around, you’ll

find that training can be affordable

too! For all details please visit our

website

www.northkentkarate.com

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

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

Call Saj on 07903 513104

BEXLEY AND DARTFORD BRANCH PARKINSONS UK

For people with Parkinsons and their carers.We have 2 meetings per month. Bexley: 4th

Thursday of each month, at Pincott Hall, 2-4pm. Dartford: 2nd Thursday of each

month, Mick Jagger Centre, 7.30-9.30pm. Information support workers available, guest speakers and quizzes. Contact Pamela Childs

0208 303 8971

Dartford Gymnasticsis the only British Gymnastics Club in Dartford

to hold the”GymMark” Award for 6 years. Based in Heath Lane, we are a friendly club

with super equipment, great coaches and high standards. We do lots of competitions and we do not close through the

holidays!Visit our website http://www.dartfordgymnastics.co.uk/

for full details or contact Linda on 01322 409312 or email [email protected]

Crayford and District Probus Club meet on 1st and 3rd Wednesdays at the Falcon

Wood Club, 1 Falcon Wood Avenue, Welling at 10am. Contact Tony Maun 0208 306 1075 or

email [email protected].

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

Ages 4-16 welcome 07903 590515

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

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

MALE? AGED 18 - 44? WANT TO HAVE FUN AND DO SOMETHING WORTHWHILE WITH YOUR SPARE TIME?

We’ve arrived in Dartford and we are a NEW Round Table Get involved, you WILL enjoy it!

www.dartfordroundtable.co.uk

Hold regular meetings in The Meeting Place,

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

email [email protected]

Our Club presents a programme of workshops and demonstrations in a very informal and friendly atmosphere. We meet on the last Thursday of the each month except December. Shorne Village Hall, The Street, Shorne. DA12 3EA. Visitors are always made

very welcome, entry £3. We have 30 members and look forward to welcoming anyone who loves flowers. The Club provides an

opportunity for people to be creative, make friends. For further information please phone 01474 353405 or email

[email protected]

SHORNE FLOWER ARRANGERS

Dartford & District Stamp ClubGUITARS IN THE SHADOWS – JOIN IN MUSIC BY THE SHADOWS TO 60S TO ROCK N ROLL

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

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

[email protected]


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

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]

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

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

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

your free taster session.

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

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

Dartford Art GroupWe meet every Thursday evening from 7.30-9.30pm.We meet at the What if...? Gallery 67-69 High Street

Dartford DA1 1DJ. The cost to belong is £40 per annum. For further enquiries please email [email protected] or ring

07940 836672

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

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

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

monkeymusic.co.uk.

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

For more information please contact Emma:[email protected]

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

YOGA WITH EMMA

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

07759 863836.

The National Women’s RegisterThe National Women’s Register (NWR) is a

national organisation that meets in the Dartford area. The NWR is a discussion group for

‘lively minded women’. Contact can be made via www.nwr.org.uk or call 08454 500 287 and

ask about the Dartford group.

CRAYFORD TOWN ARCHIVE incorporating Barnehurst and Slade Green. Meet every

Monday (except the third Monday) of the month at Crayford Library hall - 2pm-4pm. Call in for a chat about

old Crayford and to view the large collection of local images, or bring your own for us to copy.

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

Mindfulness/Meditation, CBT, EFT

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

tel:01322311415/07837413229

[email protected]

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

TONI MOUNT HISTORY CLASSESThe group meet every week at Towncentric in

Gravesend and this year we are looking at Everyday Life in Medieval London. We meet every Thursday from 10.30-12.30 at £6.00 per week customers can

phone me on 01474 355676 for more information or look at my website www.tonimount.co.uk


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

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

down on a Tuesday night! Everyone welcome!

WHEELCHAIR EPEE FENCINGWheelchair epee fencing in Dartford and Gravesham,

we are delighted to announce that New Ash Green Epee club, can now introduce wheelchair fencing. If interested in taking up this para sport please contact

us on 01474 871484 or alternatively look at our website www.nagfencing.eu

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 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

North West Kent FamilyHistory Society

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

see www.nwkfhs.org.uk

DARTFORD LIONS CLUB1st Tuesday of every month

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

Further details call Cathy 01322 618640


NHS RETIREMENT FELLOWSHIPDartford & Gravesham Branch

Meets the first Wednesday of every month at the Masonic Hall, West Hill, Dartford from

10-12pm.Activities include guest speakers, outings, lunches, holidays and quizzes.For more information contact

Marion on 01322 402967

SCRAPPY DAYS! A SCRAPBOOKING GROUP

is being held at Hawley Pavilion, Hawley Road, Dartford, DA2 7RB on the 2nd Sunday of the

month between 2pm and 6:30pm. It costs £6 which includes refreshments, nibbles and the use of a

cricut (cutting machine for those that don’t know). Beginners are very welcome. Contact Michelle on

07910 488428 or email [email protected]

...local events, clubs & groups

TEL: 01689 867358

COMING SOON YOUTH CLUB

ON COMMUNITY BUS

INGUNN ROAD, SWANSCOMBE

7PM-9PM

16TH JANUARY20TH FEBRUARY

20TH MARCH17TH APRIL15TH MAY19TH JUNE

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

Where to go locally...


DARTFORD U3A (UNIVERSITY OFTHE THIRD AGE)

meets on the first Tuesday of every month (except August) at St Anselm’s Church Hall, West Hill, Dartford at 2pm. For information

about meetings and interest groups call 01474-709068 or visit our website.

Useful Numbers


Hi all, if you went to DSTC, DTC, Dartford West Girls or any other name that the school has been known as we would love to hear from you! The school is looking to make links with former students to help raise the profile of the school but also as a way of getting back in touch with people. There will be an event later on in the academic year and we are planning some exciting things for the group so get joining and let’s get reminiscing!!

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

Little Bright SparksFun phonics, literacy and

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

East Malling and Thurs in West Kingsdown £5.50 per class

07768 447657 for more infowww.facebook.com/littlebrightsparks

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

abc

+= COLUMBINE CHINA PAINTERS CLUB

meets on the 1st and 3rd Thursday each monthat Sutton at Hone Village Hall. 1.30pm until 4.30pm. £2.00 per afternoon. £10.00 yearly fee. We are a small, friendly club, not expensive. Tuition given. All supplies can be bought in situe. Come and see if you like it, free tea And biccies. You will be very welcome. Contact - Maureen Beckham 01322 287214. Marie Blake 01474 704581. Doreen Goddard 01474 707357.

LOCAL DOG TRAINING SCHOOL

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



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



Dartford Farmers Market Dates for 2015:

Friday 20 FebruaryFriday 20 MarchFriday 17 AprilFriday 15 MayFriday 19 JuneFriday 17 July

Friday 21 AugustFriday 18 September

Friday 16 OctoberFriday 20 NovemberFriday 18 December

Dartford Markets

A market is held every Thursday and Saturday. These are now both in the High Street. The market runs from 9am - 5pm

As well as the magazine and the website Dartford Living has a large presence on social media. Our Facebook page has nearly 5000 likes and has regular discussions on the latest news from around Dartford. If you follow our tiwtter page we retweet all the local news and

traffic news that will effect your daily commute. Local people , businesses and Politicians regualry interact with us on local news and views. We also have a presence on pinterest, google + and LinkedIn. Just search Dartford Living to find us.


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

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



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Featured

Dartford is beautiful.... If you take a second to look. As you walk through the dull, dreary town it is easy to only see the boarded up shops thinking about how grey things appear. Take a moment, stop and look up.

One evening I did just that. Amazingly, what I experienced put a smile on my face. The magnificent sky looked exquisite and forever changed my view of how we see, feel and experience everything around us!

In contrast to the tiresome colours of unused buildings I saw an array of vivid tones lighting up the sky as the sunset took over the town I call home. That was it, I was hooked on looking up at the skies and around me at things I’d usually walk past. Whether it was the shimmering sunset, a dazzling bright rainbow, the magnanimous thunderstorms that put on an amazing lightning show over the summer or outstanding supermoons. I was forever being astounded by the beauty around me in a world where we so often ignore the simple wonders aroundus. Here are a few of the moments I captured in 2014 and I can’t wait to see what shows the skies put on in 2015. Why not take a look yourself?

Dartford is beautiful.... If you take a second to look by Amar Sian


Dartford Legal Services LtdCommercial & Residential

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Featured

Photography has seen a huge change over the past few years. For anyone with a smart phone, compact camera or a DSLR there are endless possibilities out there to capture images at a fraction of the cost of using traditional film.

Because of this, many online social photo sharing web sites have sprung up offering the ability for individuals to show their images to the masses.

As a professional photographer myself, I use these services to show my work - channeling viewers back to my main web site. Its a great form of advertising, because for me, the picture says it all!

One of my commissions last year was for Buss Murton Solicitors who have an office in Dartford. The request was to photograph the town from my perspective, giving Buss Murton a selection of images for marketing purposes.

Architecture is one of my favourite forms of photography, I run The Tunbridge Wells Project (www.thetunbridgewellsproject.co.uk) a website

dedicated to the interesting buildings of the town which also offers a snapshot of life today.

Dartford as I found out has some beautiful old buildings along with some great modern structures such as the bridge to the railway station. All of these provide some interesting angles to photograph and for anyone living here and interested in architectural photography I would suggest there are many opportunities to be had.

The photos I took over three or four hours of walking around the town also gave me an interesting insight into the town. It has a lot of history, sitting alongside life as it is today. Hopefully I can spend more time exploring here in the future.

Based in Tunbridge Wells, I work for a wide range of clients around the UK, my web site is here: www.davidbartholomew.co.uk Please feel free to contact me if you’re interested in any photography commissions.

Photography around Dartford by David Bartholomew

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Crayford Manor House Astronomical Society Dartford (CMHASD) who meet every Thursday evening at the Pavilion in S u t t o n - a t - H o n e have officially

opened the ‘Dick Chambers Sutton-at-Hone Observatory’ housing ‘The Peter Hindle Telescope’.The observatory was opened by Dr Peter Hindle who donated his research grade telescope to the group. The observatory was part funded by a grant from Kent County Council with CMHASD providing the remainder of the funding and doing a lot of the work themselves. The Peter Hindle telescope is a large computer controlled instrument suitable for a wide range of astronomy projects as well as being an excellent tool for public outreach. Any member

of CMHASD, after passing a suitable test, can book to use the telescope and membership is open to the general public.The observatory is named in memory of founder member and past chairman Dick Chambers who established the society’s reputation and whose enthusiasm for astronomy was infectious, he remained a member up to his death.Invited to celebrate the opening along with the members of CMHASD were the Mayor Of Dartford, Avtar Sandhu, members of the Sutton-at-Hone Parish council – who have been supportive throughout the project – and the ‘Old Colfeian’s Monday Club’ who were close friends of Dick.More Information on the activities of Crayford Manor House Astronomical Society Dartford can be found at www.crayfordmanorastro.com

22 Please mention Dartford Living when contacting our advertisers Int 23

Local News Local astronomy group opens observatory at Sutton-at-Hone

Council Leader confirms new Lowfield Street Working Group to include residents,

shoppers and local businesses Decisions on Lowfield Street are to involve the wider commmunity and embrace online communities.

Dartford Borough Council Leader Jeremy Kite has confirmed that he is to boost membership of the cross-party Lowfield Street Working Group with representatives of shoppers, local residents, businesses and town centre stakeholders as it considers the future of Lowfield Street. The move follows Tesco’s announcement not to proceed with development plans in the town.The working group currently includes senior Labour and Dartford Cabinet Members and who met frequently with Tesco during the design and planning stages of the troubled supermarket’s Lowfield Street scheme. Councillor Kite believes it has a significant role to play in light of Tesco’s withdrawal but says it must include a wider membership representing those who use and love the town. Speaking today Councillor Jeremy Kite said, “I know residents and businesses sometimes feel they are consulted too late to influence the big decisions that shape new developments. They feel they don’t have enough detail or end up being given limited options. It may have been practical to proceed that way in the

days of sparsely attended Council Meetings and a single weekly local newspaper but the world is different today. The internet, social media, multiple local news sources, blogs and the faster flow of information calls for a different way of working and offers new ways to reach and involve people more frequently.” Councillor Kite has also confirmed that he wants one of the first tasks of the group to reach out to the growing number of residents active on social media forums, online news outlets and local blogs to ensure more information is available and residents can be involved earlier.

He said, “The online community is constructive and has ideas to offer, I want to find a way for the group to engage with it and take account of what it has to say. It won’t be easy because we have to get lots of information out there and must be honest and realistic about the constraints we face as well as the opportunities. At the end of the day though, we are accountable to local people and we should have no fears in setting out not only what we have done, but what we are thinking of doing. I believe that having not only council people at the table, but authentic voices of residents, businesses and local stakeholders means that we can create a better debate, involve more people and reach better decisions for Dartford.”

The group will meet within days to begin the work of expanding its membership.

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

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

TEL: 01322 285885Email: [email protected]

website: www.dimplesnursery.co.uk

If you’re inspirational, passionate, caring and love the outdoors you may be just what we are looking for. To join our large, busy, outstanding children’s day nursery in Darenth please email your CV. Vacancies:- Nursery Nurse F/T 40 hrs p/w Level 3 or above- Lunchtime assistant 15 hrs p/w- End of Day Assistant 11.25 hrs p/w- Cleaner 18.75 hrs p/w- Maintenance Person ½ day p/w

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

Dartford Rail Travellers Association - a voice for Dartford rail users

Who we are? Dartford Rail Travellers Association (DRTA) was formed in November 2014 with our first meeting shortly after.With the recent direct award of the Southeastern franchise and the work at London Bridge affecting many Dartford rail users over the coming years, it’s time that Dartford rail users have a way to channel our feedback on the rail services that we use daily.DRTA was formed after Southeastern suggested to me, after my appearance on BBC Radio Kent, that if we had a rail user group, then we would be able to engage with them on a regular basis.The group is a joint effort led by myself (Phil Rogers) and Mike Pellatt, a fellow commuter in Dartford. The aims of the group are informal and apolitical, of course the lower case politics of train issues is acceptable, however the group is here to represent all rail users,regardless of any Political views. Joining the group is easy - follow us on twitter @DartfordRailTA, our Facebook group, or see our website at www.drta.org.uk

We will also hold regular face to face group meetings, and whilst it may be difficult to have a time that suits all group members, we hope that as many of you can turn up as possible. The next meeting will take place within the next month, and will be announced shortly - we will also invite all Dartford Councillors and ask for their thoughts from conversations they may have had with local residents..

What can you do? Join one or all of our social platforms and join the discussion, and come along to meetings if you can. All feedback, discussions, and suggestions are welcome.As the group grows, and we engage in conversation with Southeastern, we hope to have useful information to convey to Dartford rail users, and look forward to support from the local media, and community groups to pass this on.


What are Kip McGrath Educational Centres?

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

Kip McGrath Dartford.Kip McGrath Dartford has been open for more than ten years and during that time has helped thousands of children make progress in their studies. We offer programmes in the following areas: Reading and Comprehension; writing and spelling; English and Maths (Key Stages 1-4) and preparation for the 11+ test.We are registered with Ofsted, accept working tax credits and childcare vouchers and all of our staff have been vetted via a CRB or DBS. Your child would be working in a safe and welcoming environment that is designed to help them.

The Kip McGrath difference:We offer an initial free assessment that will enable you to find out your child’s current levels and which will indicate any weaknesses they may have. Your child will have an individual learning programme based on that assessment drawn up and feedback is available at every stage.

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

What does a typical Kip McGrath lesson entail?We are open during term times on the following days: Tuesday to Friday 3.40-5.00 and 5.10-6.30 and Saturday morning 9.30-10.50 and 11.00-12.20.Each session is eighty minutes long and your child would be taught by teachers in small groups. There is one on one tutoring within that lesson and your child follows a structured learning programme. Homework is set every week and checked by the teacher. In addition to this, if you teach your child at home, or there is a change in circumstances, we can also provide lessons that your child can do at home.

How do I book an initial assessment?You can email us on: [email protected] or phone on: 01322 285685.We look forward to hearing from you.


0800 840 7127 / 07401 712810

Welcome to The Inkpen Club. This a new community group for writers of novels, short stories, poetry, online fiction and plays. Whether you write for fun or money, come along and share your passion with others. All ages and experience welcome.

We have an inaugural meeting on January 13th 2015 at 8pm where we hope to meet and greet fellow scribes. Our venue is the Malt Shovel pub, 3 Darenth Rd, Dartford DA1 1LP. There are no joining fees or subscriptions. All we ask is that you are serious about your writing and willing to take part in supporting other members.

We hope to share ideas and discuss what we, as writers need to move our craft forwards. As a group we offer support, friendly discussion and positive critical appraisal of any work submitted. We are not a teaching group, just a band of like-minded scribes!

Details of writing competitions, etc are available as well as information on other outlets for our work. For more information email [email protected]

Enrol now for11+ preparation

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ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS IN DARTFORD LIVING MAGAZINE FROM JUST £26 FOR A QUARTER PAGE ADVERT!

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A FRACTION OF NEWSPAPER ADVERTISING COSTS - but bigger adverts and better valueTRULY LOCAL - created by Dartford residents with a real interest in the community

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A5 Magazine with articles for all tastes, including latest car news, sports chat, community information, crosswords, competitions, sudoku, gardening tips, children’s page and much more...

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Sisters Emily Baker and Hayley Squires share a love for jewellery which stands out from the crowd, and have channelled their passion to create a successful jewellery business.

The sisters’ creative backgrounds in fashion/textiles and marketing/events led them to share their ideas and to combine their strengths to launch a successful business offering quality, affordable jewellery.

Inspired by their interests and a visible gap in the market for unique and fashionable jewellery, 2dazzle offers a diverse range of jewellery. Their collections ranges from Sterling Silver, silver and gold plated items to high-end costume jewellery, suitable for a variety of tastes and budgets. The range also includes some handmade items, which are unique to 2dazzle. Emily and Hayley maintain high standards, buying products of the highest quality, which are all hypoallergenic. They pride themselves on providing a personalised, quality service and a hassle-free shopping experience to their customers. 2dazzle’s jewellery is primarily sourced from UK designers and small manufacturers, although their unique handmade collection is sourced from the US and France. They work collaboratively with their manufacturers, and attend trade shows to learn about the latest trends. 2dazzle showcase and retail their jewellery on Facebook and Instagram, where they have built up a significant customer following. They have successfully exhibited at various craft fairs, including Getthrifty Fairs, and other events including

schools, and continue to fill their 2015 diary. With boundless energy, they also host jewellery parties, at which women can share their passion for beautiful things, view and try on the jewellery before deciding on a suitable purchase.As a local business, 2dazzle is keen to contribute to the local community, and is currently supporting Demelza, the Kent-based children’s hospice charity, and other selected local causes, through raffles and other fundraising activities. “The sisters’ enthusiasm for their jewellery is clear: “We thrive on seeing people wearing our products and enjoying them as much as we do” says Emily.“With Valentine’s and Mother’s Day around the corner, what better way to treat a loved one or yourself to a beautiful 2dazzle gift” – says Hayley

Like and follow 2dazzle Jewellery on:Facebook: www.facebook.com/2dazzleukInstagram: www.instagram.com/2dazzlejewelleryTel: 07903 736168 You can meet 2dazzle at their next local events:

St Marys Playgroup Craft Fair, Crayford on 28th February 2015 - 11am

Getthrifty Craft Fairs, Freemantle Hall, Bexley on 7th March 2015 10am-3pm – and various Saturday dates throughout 2015

Local Crafts

Perfect Valentine’s and Mother’s Day gifts:

Article provided by Getthriftys Craft Fairs, who organise craft fairs in Kent. For more information visit their facebook page www.facebook.com/thriftyfairs


Persona Cosmetic Medicine, Rosewood, Stable lane, off Vicarage Road, Bexley, Kent, DA5 2AW62-64 West Street, Sittingbourne, Kent, Me10 1AR

www.personamedical.co.ukJoin us on facebook & twitter for regular promotions

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The following concerns can be treated by this method -

• Smoothing forehead lines • Tightens loose skin around the eyes• Cheeklift• Jowlift• Necklift• Double chins• Browlift• Smokers lines• Loose body skin• Marionette (corners of the mouth) &

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Or lifted your jowls up slightly to achieve a less sagging appearance?

The THREAD LIFT is the latest procedure which enables the skin to be lifted and tightened in a similar way to a surgical facelift but without the need for surgery.

With immediate results, the thread lift encourages the production of collagen and elastin, the two key proteins responsible for giving us tension in the skin.

For your FREE consultation call Persona on 020 8302 6937

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Max’s Makerspace 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.

Max [email protected]

Zoetrope

You will need: 1 x Small pasta tin 1 x Paper template* 1 x Piece of plasticine 1 x Marble 1 x Pencil 1 x Pair of scissors

Instructions: 1. We will make a zoetrope with a small spaghetti tin. 2. Our drawings they will spring to life, when we give it a quick spin. 3. Print the strips of paper, from the template that you’ve got. 4. Now using scissors, cut the strips, each should have eight slots. 5. Draw some pictures in the squares, that change position slightly. 6. Roll the strip into a tube, a loose one, not too tightly. 7. Put the tube inside the tin, it’s sharp so please take care. 8. Open out to meet the sides, it should sit quite nicely there. 9. Roll a ball of plasticine for the bottom of the tin. 10. Press a marble into place, now give the tin a spin. 11. Adjust your gaze and through the slots, if you’re lucky you should glance. 12. Your pictures, they are still no more, they’ve all begun to dance.

*Template here: www.microhackers.co.uk/store/zoetropeactivitytemplate

Activity provided by: MicroHackers

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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]

The Stacey Mowle Appeal

Stacey Mowle is 8 years old and from Gravesend Kent, her Neuroblastoma Cancer has relapsed and is in the final stages. Neuroblastoma affects 100 UK children annually.

When Stacey was 4 she began to feel unwell, she wasn’t herself and we knew that something wasn’t right, so we visited our GP. From there we went to our local hospital where tests revealed that Stacey had a mass in her tummy.

The following day we were transferred to St Georges Hospital where we waited for what felt like an eternity, with all kinds of awful possibilities running through our minds, however when a doctor approached us with a very serious look on his face we were not prepared for what we heard, our gorgeous vibrant little girl had Cancer, the worst kind of cancer she could have, Neuroblastoma, stage four, the final stage.

We were devastated beyond belief, and our whole world fell apart. The days and weeks that followed were a complete blur. Stacey began Chemotherapy immediately, and while we hoped for the best we prepared ourselves for the fact that we could lose our little girl at any moment.

We began to research what Neuroblastoma actually meant, and we very quickly realised that although the treatment Stacey was undergoing was the best treatment available to us at the time, the reality of what may lie ahead was frightening. Neuroblastoma has around an 80% relapse rate and currently there is no relapse protocol availible in the UK.

On December 12th 2011 we received the most amazing news, after all this time Stacey had reached remission..........

Sadly Neuroblastoma is a cruel disease and we were aware of the high chances of a relapse so we started Raise for Stacey to fundraise hoping that we could raise enough money to help with living costs etc that should we need to approach a Charity for help with treatment costs we had some personal monies to help us.

Unfortunately that possibility became a reality, as on

December 20th 2012 just as Christmas was upon us we were given the devastating news that Stacey’s cancer had returned, even more aggressively than before.

We researched online and discovered the charity Families Against Neuroblastoma, and realised we needed to urgently start fundraising for Stacey.

FAN helps families like ours raise the huge sums needed, but rely heavily on the generosity and support of the general public, especially our local community.

Due to circumstances beyond our control we have moved away from FAN & are currently seeking another charity to support us. We are now desperately trying to raise £500,000 the huge sums needed to afford Stacey the option of further treatment abroad, we don’t have much time but with your help we can do it.

We hid our tears to give Stacey the best Christmas we possibly could, and watched her little face light up with all the magic that Christmas brings to a 7 year old. Please help us give Stacey the chance to see another Christmas.

Thank you

Warren , Samantha & Jake – Stacey’s Mummy , Daddy & Brother Jake

Patrons

The appeal has a number of well known patrons including Harry Redknapp, Linda Robson, Graham Roberts, Joe Pasquale, Cheryl Baker, Paul Konchesky, Tamera Foster, Pixie McKenna, Chris Till, Leanne Jones, Kirsty Curtis, Genny Jones.

The appeal has 4000 Facebook friends, 5000 Twitter followers, 60 events to date. The family once walked 26 miles to deliver a petition of 10,000 signatures from 33 countries to No,10 Downing St to raise awareness to David Cameron of Neuroblastoma.

How to support the appeal

Main justgiving site : www.justgiving.com/StaceyMowleAppeal

Main website : www.thestaceymowleappeal.co.uk/1.html


Raine Miller, one of our volunteers and the hospital chapel are trying to put together a box of donated useful celebration accessories which can be used by patients and their families who wish to hold an urgent celebration such as a wedding, christening etc. Unfortunately, sometimes our patients are too unwell to plan a special ceremony elsewhere and due to the nature of their illness do not have time to acquire the special something’s that add to the occasion. The aim is that this box will house all of the things needed to make the occasion extra special and be available instantly.

They are seeking donations of items such as:- Silk bridal Bouquet- Silk Button holes- 6 white chair covers- 6 silk sashes for chair covers

- White silk flowers- Wedding garlands- Champagne glasses- Banners (congratulations, christening, birthday etc)- Tiaras- Balloons- Bubbles- Confetti

The items will be used to decorate the chapel for ceremonies or bays on wards if a patient is too unwell to attend the chapel. If you can assist them with a donation, please contact Raine directly via email at: [email protected] or private message us via the DVH Facebook page.

Try 111 before A&E, NHS says

More than half of the people who visited A&E at Dartford’s Darent Valley Hospital had not tried any other NHS service – yet fewer than a quarter thought it was an emergency.

An NHS survey of 1,050 people in A&E in September showed that 56 per cent of people had not tried anywhere else before visiting the hospital, while 44 per cent had tried visiting a doctor or calling NHS 111, visiting a minor injury unit or a walk-in centre.

This reveals that many patients could be visiting A&E needlessly when they should be seen somewhere else.

GP Bhaskar Bora, Principal Lead for Quality for NHS Dartford, Gravesham and Swanley Clinical Commissioning Group, said: “While many people with serious conditions should go straight to A&E, there are other ways of having a less serious injury or condition treated.

“The NHS offers a range of services that can be used as an alternative to A&E for things like backache, skin complaints, tummy bugs, sprains and minor fractures.

“If you are unsure what to do, and it is not a 999 emergency, I would encourage people to phone 111 or use our app Health Help Now for advice and information.

“Some patients will correctly visit A&E because they have a life-threatening emergency or their GP has referred them there. However, some people just turn up because they believe the service will be better and quicker. This is a complete myth. It is much better to be seen by the most appropriate service and keep A&E is free for real emergencies.”

If you are ill or injured but it is not serious enough for a 999 emergency, and you can’t visit a GP surgery, call the free NHS 111 number for advice and guidance. Those with computers, laptops and smart-phones can also download the interactive Health Help Now app from the Apple Store for iPhones, Google Play store for Android phones or visit www.healthhelpnow-nhs.net.

Health Help Now gives instant advice about symptoms any time, day or night. It also has the opening hours of all Kent and Medway pharmacies, complete with directions on how to get to your nearest pharmacy which is open.”

Charity Appeal - Darent Valley Hospital


Seat Leon ST Cupra – The fastest version of the Seat Leon is now available across all three bodystyles, with the estate, or ST, the third to be offered as a Cupra model. This means it gets the same upgrades to equipment and the powerful engine as the three-door and five-door hatchback Cupra models. While the hatchback Cupras are offered with a choice of two power outputs, the ST comes with the more powerful version – the 276bhp 2.0-litre TSI petrol engine. It’s economy is likely to average 42.8mpg and emits 154g/km, similar to the hatchbacks. The ST comes with the same level of equipment as the other Cupras, which means it gets a series of visual and handling-related upgrades over the standard car. The ST Cupra starts at £28,505 for the manual version, while the DSG model starts at £29,860, available to order from March 2015. 2015 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe – Mercedes says the GLE Coupe blends SUV and coupe styling. It is based on the ML SUV, itself recently renamed the GLE. This car is due a face-lift in early 2015. The model gets sporty styling inside and out, changes to the suspension and gear ratios for a sportier drive, with

four-wheel drive as standard. Also new is the AMG Sport version, which is a new sub-brand of models that are sporty. The GLE Coupe range includes one diesel and two petrol models. The nine-speed 9G-Tronic automatic is the sole transmission, along with four-wheel drive. The range-topper is the GLE 450 AMG. This is powered by a twin-turbo 3.0-litre V6 petrol engine with 362bhp, with the lower powered version in the GLE 400 with outputs of 328bhp. Prices are yet to be announced, but we’d expect a significant premium of around £10,000 over the equivalent GLE model. This means the GLE 350d is likely to cost around £60,000. It will launch in June 2015. 2015 Honda NSX – The NSX is Honda’s hybrid supercar and will come with a mid-mounted twin-turbocharged V6 engine and three electric motors. One of the electric motors is between the engine and gearbox and supports the acceleration, braking and transmission shifting performance. The Other two motors are mounted on the NSX’s front axle with each motor Driving an individual wheel. The petrol-electric hybrid powertrain drives all four wheels and is connected to an all-new nine-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox. A UK version won’t be on sale until the end of 2015 and is likely to be somewhere around the Audi R8’s price range of £93,735 - £126,835.

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

Business andAutomotive


Pam Downes, manager of Buss Murton Law’s Dartford office, reflects on what Dartford means to her in 2015

2015 looks as though it is going to be an exciting year for Dartford, with development of the town centre progressing. The relocated Thursday market has already taken on a new lease of life. Also, real building is starting on the Ebbsfleet Garden City site after years of inactivity and a Paramount resort is scheduled to open in 2020.

Alongside all this, the population of the area is forecast to increase substantially over the next few years, with an influx of younger people and businesses into these newer areas.

So perhaps the beginning of a new year is a good time to make some resolutions about how we all organise our lives:-

Make a will. If you don’t, the law may allocate your assets in a way that differs from what you would want.

If you are in, or entering into what you hope will be, a long-term relationship but not getting married, take some legal advice on how to organise the ownership of your possessions in a way that creates some certainty if you separate.

If you move house, use a solicitor who you know will hold your hand through what can be a very stressful process. It may cost a little more, but you won’t be treated as impersonal costs fodder.

If you have your own business, take some advice about your contracts. It will probably save you money in the long run.

And if you have a business partner, remember that the majority of small businesses split up sooner or later, and make sure that there is an agreement in place that specifies how any separation should take place.

Get all these things in good shape, and you will be ready to enjoy being part of what is going to be one of the most thriving parts of the country.

For more information on our services pleased call 01322 220235 or visit our website www.bussmurton-dartford.co.uk

JOHN HARGREAVESBUILDING & HOME

IMPROVEMENT SERVICESWide range of building & home improvement services for the

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Tips for small businesses

These days there are many more people using EBay and other like sites to sell goods. Sales of normal private items are tax free. However, if you are selling items at a profit and your total gain in any tax year is over £11,000, there will be Capital Gains Tax to pay.

If the item you are selling is of the same kind which you sell in your business eg you are selling a wardrobe and you normally trade under Schedule D on furniture, HMRC may consider that this income should be taxable under Schedule D and chargeable (if you are registered) for VAT. This would probably not be the case if it were a one off sale, but if it were more regular, then HMRC would need proof that the items were not claimed for tax relief and also that they were purchased at the regular market price, with the view of the tax payer using the item him/herself.

Also, if you are regularly buying and selling items on the internet or at boot fairs, HMRC would consider you to be trading and therefore you should be registered for tax and if your turnover was over £81,000, you should also be registered for VAT.

HMRC are monitoring the internet on a regular basis and there is no doubt that if you continued to sell goods in this manner, that they would eventually catch up with you.

Lastly, it should be remembered that it is not always bad to be considered by HMRC to be trading. If you make losses when you are trading, you can claim these losses against other forms of income.

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 free meeting.

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



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

FITNESS

Beautiful floral arrangements for your occasion

Flowers that say it for you

chellesflorals.co.ukChelles Florals is a leading florist located

in Dartford Kent with a unique approach

to floral design. We are passionate about

creating stunning flower arrangements and

ensuring every request is delivered with a

personal touch. Working as a creative team,

we have supplied floral arrangements for the

following occasions : Weddings, Valentines

Day, Anniversaries, Seasonal Occasions,

Funerals, Pandora Bluewater, Private

Functions and many more special occasions.

Check out our website for the latest images. If you have an enquiry, we would love to hear from you!

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

FITNESS

By Mark Broadbent, Master Personal Trainer & Instructor at Dartford Bootcamps. Visit www.DartfordBootcamps.com for information on Personal Training, Nutrition coaching or Bootcamp Fitness classes. - MarkOneFitness.blogspot.com

I get this a lot when I consult with people and look over food diaries… People thinking they’re eating healthy meals, partly through misinformation and partly through being told the wrong things by people they trust (big weight loss “businesses” included), when in reality, they’ve been misled.If your weight loss has slowed, or even stopped, then there’s a good chance you haven’t been eating as healthily as you could be, or have fallen into the trap of cutting calories to lose weight.Here are 5 guidelines you can follow when preparing your meals (that doesn’t mean opening a packet and pressing a button on the microwave) that should help ensure your meal is appropriate to your weight loss and health goals:1- Eat REAL food Quality ingredients mean everything. Fresh, single ingredient foods and combinations thereof. Avoid packet foods; anything with long unpronounceable ingredients; low fat; “diet”; and most packaged foods. Eat fresh meat, fresh vegetables, and anything that’s in its natural state. Organic, free range, wild, and grass fed are all options to look out for.2- Get enough protein This is essential and one that most people (barring hormonal teenage boys trying to “bulk up”) neglect. Especially if you’ve started an exercise routine. Shoot for about 1.5g protein per kg bodyweight, per day minimum. (E.g. If you weight 70Kg, aim for a minimum of 105g

protein per day) Fish, Meat, Eggs, and Beans are all good choices.Make sure you have protein at every meal, without fail, including breakfast!3- Lots of fibrous veggies Vegetables are essential for you to get the nutrients you need in your diet. Consider these “free foods”, i.e. eat as much as you like! Lots of nutrition to support your body, and plenty of fibre to help fill you up. Salad, vegetables, fruit, legumes.4-Avoid starchy foods This is one where people who think they’re eating healthy often come unstuck. High carb and calorie dense foods will put a halt on your weight loss efforts despite some of them being touted as healthy options. This isn’t forever, but for now eliminate this group. Bread, Pasta, Potatoes, Rice, Cereals.5- Don’t avoid all fats! Perhaps the biggest myth in the diet world today. Fats are essential for health. Like carbohydrates, some are better than others. Avoid vegetable oils, margarines and low fat spreads, and trans fats (fried foods, sweet foods, cakes, sweets etc.). Cook in coconut oil, [real] butter, or ghee. Use extra virgin olive oil cold. And get some nuts and seeds into your meals.Combine this with a challenging exercise program, and you’ll soon start to see results. If you need more help, visit www.DartfordBootcamps.com for information on Personal Training, Nutrition Coaching, and Bootcamp classes. And follow us on Facebook and Twitter (do it now……) for extra tips, advice and motivation.

Is your dinner healthy?

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

• Lightly trim winter flowering Heathers when the flowers die off

• Divide Snowdrops after flowering• Plant Lily of the Valley Crowns• Prune summer flowering shrubs

Vegetables

• Dig any unworked vacant ground• Dig and store any root crops still

in the ground• Check stored vegetables and

discard any that are rotting Lawns

• Keep off in frosty weather

• Ensure that the mower is serviced• Spike lawns to aid drainage

Greenhouse

• Plant new Grape Vines• Check the glass is not loose after

high winds• Sow Sweet Peas for planting out

later• Clean out accumulated rubbish in

preparation for spring• Check that the heating system

still works

General Tasks

• Provide food and water for garden birds

Lifestyle


Gardening Tips

Local Sports News


Dartford Valley Rugby Club were delighted to hand over a cheque for £203.74 to The Mayor of Dartford for money which the club had collected on their “Twelve Bars of Christmas” on the 20th December 2014.

The event was quite a challenge: to visit twelve pubs and bars in central Dartford with a festive drink in each one - not everyone completed it! John Davis-Ashdown (President of DVRFC) said, “I was amazed at the generosity of the people in each pub, who gladly donated to The Mayor’s charities, so, many thanks to them all. Dartford Valley, as the only rugby club in Dartford, is proud to support the 31 different charities chosen by The Mayor.” The club also unveiled to Cllr Avtar Sandhu its Youth Rugby project that will be starting on Sunday 12th April at The Leigh CTC. Head of Youth Rugby, Luke Stickings said, “DVRFC has so much to offer the community, giving the youngsters in Dartford a safe and well-managed environment in which to play such a

great sport for girls and boys. Apart from non-contact rugby skills, the players will learn teamwork, respect, discipline, improve their fitness and most importantly, have fun and make new friends. This project is the future for rugby in Dartford.” The Mayor is a proud supporter of the club and regularly attends its events. He wishes DVRFC every success in achieving its goals and is delighted with its plans to be a fully inclusive club for everyone in the community.

Bill Archer to step down as co-chairman of Dartford Football Club

Local businessman and long-time Dartford Football Club supporter Bill

Archer has announced that he is to step down as co-chairman of the Vanarama Conference club after a bout of poor health.

Bill joined the board of directors in September 2001 to help with the campaign to bring the Dartford Football Club back to the Borough and was at the centre of negotiations with Dartford Borough Council that saw the Club return to a purpose-built stadium. Following the opening of Princes Park in November 2006, Bill took up the reigns as co-chairman with responsibility for commercial matters alongside long-time chairman Dave Skinner who concentrated on football and stadium operations.

Bill Archer said “ I told the Board some time ago that this season would be my last as co-chairman because I wanted to concentrate on getting myself back to full health and had to consider my family and friends. I suspect very few people appreciate how much work and stress is involved in keeping a club of this size running or how much the Board do to sustain the business. They are all unsung heroes and I have had enormous support from them. “

“I also want to say a word about our magnificent supporters. It doesn’t matter whether you have been with us for the long-haul and shared the dark days with us or have discovered Princes Park more recently. Each of you is part of our club and we appreciate you.”

“I can understand why some clubs settle for life in the lower leagues and why winning against lower opposition has its attractions for some fans, but I’m proud that our club has been brave enough to knock on the door of higher leagues and not lose its sense of fairplay, financial responsibility and it’s long term commitment to our community. Long-time supporters will remember what dark-days REALLY look like and I can assure you that today’s ups-and-downs, competing just one step from the Football League, don’t come close! It’s been a great journey and it’s now time to leave the bus. There’s a lot more to come and I look forward to being alongside you.”

The Board has unanimously asked Bill Archer to take up the post of Club President and is delighted that he will continue to advise the club.

Bill’s replacement as co-chairman will be the club’s current vice-chairman Steve Irving. Steve has been a director of the club for 22 years, a supporter for 43 years and will continue to work alongside Dave Skinner as co-chairman with responsibility for football.

FA Trophy 1st Round

13th Dec, 3.00pm(TBC)

Braintree26th Dec, TBCpm

Bav’s Sporting Comment

Upcoming events in February include:

1: American Football - Super Bowl XLIX, Glendale, Arizona 2: Football - Transfer deadline day8: Football - Africa Cup of Nations final, Bata, Equatorial

Guinea14: Cricket World Cup - England v Australia, Melbourne14-17: Football - FA Cup fifth round17-18: Football - Champions League round of 16 first leg20: Cricket World Cup - England v New Zealand,

Wellington23: Cricket World Cup - England v Scotland, Christchurch24-25: Champions League round of 16 first leg


21ST Feb

v Gateshead

KO. 3pm

Surprise (or not)… Cristiano Ronaldo has been named world footballer of the year after winning the Ballon d'Or for the second year in a row. The Portugal captain beat Barcelona forward Lionel Messi and Bayern Munich goalkeeper Manuel Neuer to the award, which he has now successfully defended, winning for a third time overall. Ronaldo has had a fantastic year for his club – Real Madrid, scoring 52 goals in 43 games during 2014, and winning the European Champions League. However, it was the Paris St Germain and Brazil defender David Luiz who threw up the real surprise… as he was picked in FIFA’s World Team of Year 2014. The former Chelsea centre-half was centre stage in Brazil's chaotic collapse during their 7-1 humiliation at the hands of Germany in the summer but somehow still made it into the side. Neither Gareth Bale nor his Real Madrid team-mate James Rodríguez made the list. FIFA are never far away from causing a bit of a stir…

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 38)

Coffee break



Astro Stars By Sandy Davies

www.facebook.com/astrodegrees

ARIES24th, extra money may be made around international affairs, teaching, publishing

work or receiving a bonus from work.

TAURUS8th, if already in a relationship you decide to expand your horizons by going travelling or

taking up a hobby together.

GEMINIYour finances look up on the 8th as you may receive a surprise windfall, tax rebate, and gain financially through your partner or a

promotion at work.

CANCER8th, an international business venture may take off or you find a 2nd income

through academic matters, teaching or an international “connection”.

LEO8th, a financial boost is possible through

your hard work, overtime, taking on more

responsibility, through a promotion at work or you may gain financially through your

partner.

VIRGO8th, if single, you allow yourself to be

pursued and any love affair begun now will be intense and passionate but you will still

have fun.

LIBRA8th, you communicate powerful feelings

on a romantic level through gestures or by practical means in the home, by preparing a romantic meal, holding the ladder or tackling

all jobs you have been putting off.

SCORPIO10th, spend time with your friends and

indulge in the good things in life.

SAGITTARIUS4th and 10th, you may have the opportunity to travel with business, visit family overseas,

join a course or take on a completely new

challenge.you to live out your dreams?

CAPRICORN22nd, you are especially fond of the life

at home and with your family during this period.

AQUARIUS22nd, ideal time to enter competitions or show off your talents which could lead to financial rewards, an article or picture in a

newspaper or even on “you tube”.

PISCES26th, you are inspired to get together with others on a creative project that allows you to follow your dream and to plant seeds for

the future. 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

TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD TUE 3 - SAT 7 MARCH 2015ONE OF THE GREATEST NOVELS OF THE 20TH CENTURY NOW LIVE ON STAGE IN THIS ACCLAIMED PRODUCTION. SET IN THE DEEP SOUTH, HARPER LEE’S PULITZER PRIZE-WINNING NOVEL SEES RACIAL INJUSTICE ENVELOP A SMALL-TOWN COMMUNITY. THROUGH COURAGE AND COMPASSION, LAWYER ATTICUS FINCH SEEKS THE TRUTH, AND HIS FEISTY DAUGHTER, SCOUT - A YOUNG GIRL ON THE CUSP OF ADULTHOOD - BRINGS NEW HOPE TO A NEIGHBOURHOOD IN TURMOIL. THIS UTTERLY ENCHANTING AND ENTHRALLING PRODUCTION FROM LONDON’S AWARD-WINNING REGENT’S PARK THEATRE CAPTURES THE WARMTH AND POIGNANCY OF THIS BEST-LOVED CLASSIC WITH GENUINE HEART AND EMOTIONAL DEPTH. A STORY AS MOVING AND MAGICAL AS YOU COULD EVER HOPE TO FIND.

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 IN TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD?

A) ATTICUS FINCH B) SCOUT FINCH C) CUB FINCH D) BOO RADLEY

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

JANUARY’S COMPETITION WINNER: SHIRLEY SARGEANT

(Solution on page 38)


£ 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

The Tatev Monastery is a 9th century monastery located on a large basalt plateau near the Tatev village in the Syunik Province in southeastern

Armenia. - by Vinayak Jaint was once one of the largest monasteries with over 1,000 monks and still is the ‘best-known site’ in Syunik.

To ascend the plateau and reach the monastery, you need to cross the natural land bridge named as Satan’s Bridge. Before climbing the gorge, visitors love to plunge into the spring-fed pools located around the bridge.

The view of the monastery during sunlight is awesome. When incense burns in the monastery, the light falling in through the windows makes the sunbeams appear stunning.

In the ancient era, Armenian priests and scientists observed the sky and space from this location. It is built with sturdy stones making it resistant to earthquakes.

Wings of Tatev, a cableway from Tatev to Halidzor village was opened in October 2010. It was included in the Guinness World Records as the world’s ‘longest non-stop double track cable car.’

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



SCHOOL LIFE:The Perspective of an InsiderAnxiety can happen to anyone, at any point, depending what is happening in our lives. It can sometimes be a positive thing, in which it motivates us to get thorough the day or dealing with a specific task. Or it can be heavily detrimental to our life and wellbeing.

Anxiety, in my opinion, is slowly creeping into young people’s lives. There is so much pressure on young people these days to be clever, great in sports, have a perfect body, etc. With every aspect of their life on social network sites, it’s no wonder young people feel anxious from time to time. For some students, it stops them coming into school, going into classes, leads to them getting extremely angry and not socialising with friends.

Some general symptoms to look out for: chest pains, palpitations, shortness of breath, headache, sweating numbness, dry mouth and scale pain. Some of the psychological effects: excessive fear and worry, going blank, difficulty making decisions, confusion, restlessness and feeling on edge.

It can feel very frustrating at times when your child refuses to do something, which you feel is a simple thing to do. Your school should be able to come up with a plan to put in place, guided by your child, so they feel more comfortable in coming to school. This could be reduced timetable, arriving late and leaving early or allowing a child to work elsewhere in the school, which they find more comfortable. Then slowly be reintegrated back to a normal routine with help and support from outside agencies.

As soon as you notice a problem contact your school straight away. The longer you leave it, the harder it will be for the young person to even enter the school, let alone sit in lessons.

Useful websites: www.youngminds.org.uk and www.anxiety.org.uk

Follow me on twitter

@ebb_emily


28 APRIL – 2 MAY

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Documents

Dartford Living - February Issue