Hopefully, you are reading this with the sun shining, as we enjoy warmer spring-summer weather! May was another busy month for the DL team. I’ve been busy supporting my marketing/social media clients and reviewing TV programs for the BBC. You can catch me on BBC Radio Kent every Thursday at 4.35pm.
David has also been very busy with his racing driver clients, building and upgrading websites for them, and much more. Our most recent networking event was extremely popular and our next event will take place on 9th June at Dartford Grammar School, with over 100 attendees expected. Visit www.dartfordlivinglive.co.uk to book your spot for this event. It’s totally free to attend and we have a free AI session running too!
Again, all advertising space in the June edition of DL sold out before the deadline, so if you are considering advertising, please get in touch ASAP to avoid disappointment!
In case you weren’t aware, David and I run Dartford Living alongside over 50 volunteer (thank you!) members of the local community. DL is the only independently run magazine, serving the local area with information and positive local stories!
Please 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 neighbours. You will guarantee your copy of the magazine and get a little exercise too!
If you email editor@dartfordliving.com we will add you to our e-newsletter mailing list and you will join over 75,000 local people who read the magazine and/or follow us on social media each month.
When you’ve finished reading the magazine please either keep it on your bookshelf, for when you need to use a local business, or pass it on to a friend or family member to read too.
Vijay Editor - Dartford Living Magazine (and of course David and the fantastic Dartford
volunteer team)
Ibiza:
Drifting
Get up to 20%. Just quote ‘DL’
Further Casting Announced for Dartford’s Magical Panto Cinderella
The Orchard Theatre is delighted to announce a sparkling line-up of stars joining this year’s magical family pantomime Cinderella — a festive spectacular that promises breathtaking visuals, show-stopping performances, and unforgettable family fun.
Musical Theatre star Keith Jack will play Prince Charming, best known for his standout journey on Any Dream Will Do and his acclaimed musical theatre career spanning Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Sincerely Mr Toad, and Forever Plaid. With his powerhouse vocals and natural stage charisma, Keith is sure to delight as Cinderella’s dashing prince.
Keith said: I am delighted to be appearing at The Orchard Theatre in Dartford this panto season and to be working with the fantastic team at Imagine Theatre. This year feels especially exciting as the theatre reopens its doors, and I can’t think of a better way to celebrate than with a spectacular and fun-filled panto season.
Joining him is the hugely popular, multi-talented Ben Goffe as Buttons, whose comedic timing and warm rapport with audiences have made him a beloved panto favourite across the UK. Ben’s extensive stage and screen credits which include the West End production The Choir of Man as well as working for Disney and Netflix, ensure a Buttons full of heart, humour, and mischief.
Ben said: I’m super excited to be back playing Buttons in The Orchard Theatre. I’m also looking forward to working with the brilliant Joe Pasquale over the festive period, we’ve known each other for a number of years and have already begun working on our comedy routines. It’s going to be a fab show, so book now before it’s too late!
Adding outrageous glamour and riotous comedy are Gareth Mitchell and Garnon Davies as Cinderella’s fabulously wicked stepsisters Phyxie and Connie. Both performers bring a wealth of theatrical experience, razor-sharp wit, and larger-than-life personality, guaranteeing audiences a double act bursting with chaos, colour, and brilliance.
Completing the newly announced cast is the enchanting Vanessa Dumatey as Cinderella’s Fairy Godmother. With her soaring vocals and radiant stage presence, Vanessa will bring the show’s most magical moments to life — from glittering transformations to heart-warming guidance for Cinderella.
They join the previously announced national treasure Joe Pasquale as Baron Hardup, whose unmistakable comedy style and infectious energy promise to make this year’s production one of Dartford’s most memorable pantos yet.
Cinderella will be produced by award-winning Imagine Theatre and promises to be the perfect festive treat to experience with all the family. Packed with festive sparkle, laugh-out-loud comedy, show-stopping songs and audience participation galore, Cinderella will be everything you know and love about panto and will feature a stellar supporting cast, spectacular award-winning animated scenery, glittering costumes and mesmerising special effects.
Laura Taylor, Associate Producer for Cinderella said: ‘Imagine Theatre are delighted to be returning to Dartford this year with the ultimate rags to riches tale and it’s not only Cinderella who will be getting a wonderful transformation this year, we are so excited to be back in The Orchard Theatre after its makeover. There are very few people in the country that have as much pantomime experience as the fantastic Joe Pasquale so with him heading up the cast alongside a stellar supporting cast it really is set to be a family spectacular. Dartford audiences won’t have seen anything quite like this show with its award-winning set design. It is a show full of true pantomime magic.’
Cinderella dreams of a happier life, away from the torment of her wicked stepsisters. When a magical Fairy Godmother appears at her door, Cinderella is transformed and whisked away in a pumpkin coach to the castle to dance the night away with the Prince. But when the clock strikes midnight, she flees – leaving only a glass slipper behind… Will Cinderella find her happy ever after in time?
Cinderella is guaranteed to fill your festive season with magic, laughter and happily ever afters! So, pop on your glad-rags and grab your tickets to join Joe for the show that proves a pair of shoes really can change your life.
Buy your tickets now by visiting www.orchardwest.co.uk
5th year
8th- 14th June 2026
Drag bingo poetry exhibitions live music food stalls art community fair and more
Finishing with at Orchard West on the 14th June Pridefest: The Party
Featuring: Anton Stephans, Sophia Stardust, Sabrina Carpenter & Lady Ga Ga tributes, the Cinderella Panto Step Sisters and many more!
Follow @DartfordPride for updates Scan here to visit the website
Dartford FC Women Are Champions!
By Connor Brennan
From Greenwich Park to Hill Park and everywhere in between, this season will live long in the memory for all connected with Dartford FC Women.
The Darts headed into this season with one aim in mind; promotion, following back to back second place finishes in the London and South East Regional Women’s Premier Division. It’s fair to say that this season, they did it in style as the Darts have been promoted to the National League as…. CHAMPIONS!
19 wins, 2 draws and only 1 defeat for a side who ended the league season unbeaten at home! A truly remarkable achievement!
Dartford FC Women’s Co-Manager, Martin McCarthy shares his thoughts on the season ‘Well what can we say about this season? It was the best in Dartford women’s history and was fully deserved based on the amount of work that was put in by every player, member of staff and management from the 1st pre season back in June last year.
There was huge success this season, not just in winning the league, the Kent Cup and in reaching the 3rd round of the FA Cup, as well as breaking attendance records various times throughout the season, shows’ just how much the community of Dartford have taken to the girls’ efforts all season.
Connor and I are immensely proud to have given Dartford FC supporters fantastic pride to be part of a consistent winning culture and we have no signs of this stopping anytime soon.
A truly remarkable season for a team that always plays with passion, desire and pride for the badge of the club we are proud to represent. With an ever growing fan base, this is a team that is putting Dartford back on the map and a team
inspiring the next generation of young girls to believe that anything is possible. This season really did have it all. A season full of great goals, fantastic moments and memories that will live long in the memory.
I’ll leave the final word to our captain, Xayla-Rae Alberts, who sums up the season perfectly ‘Success is the ability to go from one failure to another with no loss of enthusiasm’.
For now, the hard work is done as we all enjoy the summer and the success of the season. However, be under no illusion, come the first session of pre-season the hard work will begin again. Why? The answer is simple…. Dartford FC Women are heading for the National League!
Up the Darts!
English Civil War Society Weekend
11am – 5pm -
Lullingstone Castle
Step back into the turbulent 1640s as the English Civil War Society transforms Lullingstone Castle into a bustling Royalist garrison. Visitors will find themselves immersed in a vivid living history experience, hosted by Lord Ralph Hopton’s and Sir Thomas Blackwell’s Regiments. Enjoy an action-packed weekend, including drill displays with live musket and cannon firing, children’s drill sessions, and skirmishes, while exploring the sights and sounds of an authentic encampment that truly brings the Civil War era to life.
Admission price£17 adult - children under 16 go FREE
www.lullingstonecastle.co.uk
– 4th & 5th July –
Parent & Toddler Groups
Dartford Libraries
Baby Rhyme Time:
A free, fun and noisy way for under 3s to develop a love of language and a foundation for learning. Each session lasts about 20 minutes and includes the opportunity to join in with nursery rhymes and action songs. Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult.
Dartford Library - Mondays 10.30 – 11.00 – Term time only
Dartford Library - Mondays 11.15 – 11:45 – Term time only
Fleetdown Library - Tuesdays 10.30 – 11.00 – Term time only
Greenhithe Library - Fridays 10.00 – 10.30 – Term time only
Longfield Library - Thursdays 10.45 – 11.15
Summerhouse Drive Library - Tuesdays 10.30 – 11.00 – Term time only
Temple Hill Library – Wednesday 10.30-11.00 – Term time only
Storytime:
Listening to stories is a great way to develop and encourage young children to read books. Come and join one of our free storytime sessions for pre-school children - it’s great fun! Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult.
Dartford Library - Thursdays 10.30 – 11.30 – Term time only
Children’s Craft and Activity Time:
A fun free craft and colouring session for children. This group aims to bring children aged 4-11 together to chat and make new friends. Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult.
Dartford Library – Saturdays 11.00 – 13.00
Sutton-at-Hone Library – Mondays 15.00 – 16.00 – Term time only
Temple Hill Library – Saturdays 10.30 – 1.00
Baby Playground:
An exciting programme of creative play sessions for young children has begun across Kent. Led by a team of brilliant artists and musicians, families with babies (aged 0 to 18 months) can share creative play. Book up to 2 weeks in advance at playgroundkent.co.uk
Dartford Library – Fridays 10.30 – 11:15 – Term time only – Booking required
Family Playground:
Join our amazing Playground artists for some creative play and fun specially designed for children 5 years and under to share with their parents or carers. The group sessions are fun and engaging, led by a brilliant team of artists and are completely free. Book up to 2 weeks in advance at playgroundkent.co.uk
Dartford Library – Last Saturday of the month 13.30 – 14.30 – Booking required
Other Parent and Toddler Groups
Monday 9:15am - 11:30am - A&J Toddlers - St Anselms Church Community Centre, Dartford. £2.50 per one adult and child and 50p each for any extra children or adults each. Tea/coffee biscuits, small snack for children with juice. Craft table and singing and dancing at end of session Contact Julie on 07917 843592.
Sing and Sign Orchard Shopping Centre - Mondays - 9.30am - 10.15am Toddlers 10.15 - 11am 6 months - 14 Months 11am - 11.45am Under 6 Months.
Bexley Park Sports and Social Club - Thursdays 11.am - 11.45am 6 months - 14 Months 11.45am - 12.30pm Under 6 months
Tuesday 9.30am-11.30am - Sticky Fingers - £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
Friday 9.30am-11am - Toerags Toddler Group - Adult education centre, Dartford £3 per Child- £1 Non Walkersfacebook.com/ToeRagse
Friday 10.30am – 12.30 - Mummy’s Linkup - on the 4th Friday of each month., Temple Hill Community Centre
Saturday 2-3pm - Lego Club- ages 5 and over - Chrome Road Slade Green DA8 2EL Tel: 01322 333602
Sundays 10:15-10:45 - Little Tigers - Karate for 3, 4 & 5 year olds - Swanscombe Leisure Centre. Call Saj on 07903 51310
Singing Mamas Mondays 10am- 11:30am Tree Community Centre, Cedar Rd, DA1 2RS
Singing Mamas is a singing for wellbeing group for women. Babies and little ones are welcome too. No prior singing experience needed- come and join us for singing, joy, connection and cake!
For more details and to book a free taster session contact singingwithmarianna@gmail.com
NEW CLASSES IN HEXTABLE, SWANLEY AND BEXLEY info@blossombabies.co.uk 07794451386 www.blossombabies.co.uk
BABYBALLERS Themed Football and multi skills sessions are suitable for girls and boys aged 16 months to 5 years old.
Your little superstar will learn shapes, colours, numbers and lots, lots, more all through playing the BabyBallers way!
Classes in Dartford, Northfleet, Gravesend and Ebbsfleet on Fridays and weekends.
Please visit babyballers1.class4kids.co.uk or email matt@babyballers.com
Local Groups
EAST DARTFORD BENEFICE, ST ALBAN AND ST EDMUND CHURCHES - www.2dartfordchurches.org
St Alban’s Church, St Alban’s Road, DA1 1FT
ST ALBAN’S COMMUNITY HUB. Wednesdays 11:00 - 2:00pm. Hot food and drink, a warm welcome, friendship, help and advice. Sharing links to local services and partnership agencies to support our community.
STEPPING STONES TODDLER GROUP. Wednesdays, 8:30am – 11am. Free to join, lots of toys, books and opportunities to make new friends, tea/coffee, juice, biscuits.
3RD DARTFORD, ST ALBAN’S BROWNIES. Fridays, from 5pm (Rainbows) and 6:15pm (Brownies). Weekly group held at St Alban’s Church.
ST ALBAN’S KNIT & NATTER. Saturdays (1st and 3rd of the month), 10am – 11:30am. Your opportunity to come and join this lovely group, come and knit or crochet, learn or teach someone else, tea/coffee and a lot of nattering. St Edmund’s Church, St Edmund’s Road, DA1 5ND
CAFÉ @ ST EDS. Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Fridays. 9.30am – 2pm. Serving a wonderful range of food, drinks and daily specials. Café is open on Thursdays serving a limited menu as we have a 2-course meal for £5 available (pre-booking advised).
KINDNESS & WELLBEING GROUP. Tuesdays, 9:30am – 11:30am. Make new friends, chat over a cuppa, mindfulness and wellbeing resources and support.
OVER 60’S GROUP @ ST EDS. Thursdays, 11:30am – 3pm. 2 course hot lunch for £5 served from 12noon (pre-booking advised), followed by Raffles and Bingo from 1pm – 3pm, prizes galore.
LITTLE EDS TODDLER GROUP. Fridays, 9am-11am. Free to join, lots of toys and opportunity to make new friends. St Eds Café is open.
Dartford District Libraries Activities and Events: For Adults:
Knit & Natter:
Enjoy knitting or crochet? Come along to our friendly group, meet new friends and enjoy a chat. Everyone is welcome from beginners to expert knitters and crocheters. Sessions are free but please provide your own materials.
Ashen Drive Library - Tuesdays 10.30 – 12.45
Dartford Library - Wednesdays 1.30 – 3.30 – Full
Dartford Library – Saturday 10:30 -12:30 – Booking is essential
Fleetdown Library – Friday 10.00 – 12.00
Longfield Library - Every other Thursday 11.15 – 12.30 Summerhouse Drive Library - 3rd Tuesday of the month 2.00 – 3.30
Talk Time:
Come along to our free friendly group, meet new friends and enjoy a cuppa and a chat. Everyone is welcome.
Fleetdown Library – Friday 11.00 – 12.30
Longfield Library - Every other Thursday 11.15 – 12.30 Summerhouse Drive Library – 2nd and 4th Friday of the month 2.00– 3.30
IT Buddies:
Book a session with one of our volunteer IT buddies for help with basic computer queries. These sessions are not classes and our IT buddies cannot help with filling out forms due to Data Protection Regulations. Contact your local library for availability.
Clubs at the Orchard Theatre
Chair Fit –Seated Exercise Class, Every Monday, 10:15am-12:15pm at Orchard West. £5 per session. Email tmccann@orchardtheatre.co.uk for more information.
Orchard Theatre Choir – A friendly daytime choir, Every Tuesday, 10am-12pm at Acacia Sports Hall. £7.50 per session. Email tmccann@orchardtheatre.co.uk for more information.
Ukulele Club – Suitable for all abilities, Every Thursday, 11am-1pm at Acacia Sports Hall. £7.50 per session. Email tmccann@orchardtheatre.co.ukfor more information.
Kent and Medway Recovery and Wellbeing College
We provide free health and wellbeing courses and workshops to anyone over the age of 18yrs. We’ll help recognise your talents and skills and give you tools to help you take care of yourself and your loved ones.
You’ll learn how to be the expert in your own wellbeing, in a safe space with people who can benefit from your journey. Take a look at our prospectus, course directory and find out how to enrol.
Visit us on https://www.kentmedwaymentalhealth.nhs.uk/about-us/recovery-and-wellbeing-college/
North Kent Embroiderers
Learn new techniques, make friends and enjoy interesting talks, workshops and demonstrations. Absolute beginners and more experienced stitchers welcome.
We meet on the third Saturday of every month except August from 2-4pm in Southfleet Village Hall, Southfleet, Gravesend, DA13 9NX or by Zoom if necessary.
Visitors are very welcome. website: www.northkentembroiderers.co.uk email: info@northkentembroiderers.co.uk phone: Eileen on 01474 324734
Dartford Music School
Want to learn to play or sing? For all ages and abilities, we have something for you.
We offer a variety of music learning activities based at The Mick Jagger Centre including Individual Instrumental Lessons, group sessions with Red Rooster, Dartford Youth Choir and DMS Orchestra!
We are an amateur dramatics group who meet every Tuesday 8-10pm at Joydens Wood Community Centre. Whether you want to stand in the spotlight, hide behind the scenes, or have world-class tea-making abilities, we’re always on the lookout for new recruits! There’s nothing like the buzz of putting on a show, so why not take the plunge and join us.
Contact us now at pavilion_players@hotmail.com
Social media: linktr.ee/pavilionplayers"
Home Library Service:
We can deliver library items to you if you cannot visit a library due to illness, disability or your caring responsibilities. After visiting you to discuss your tastes and needs, staff will select suitable material for you. A volunteer will deliver your books, DVDs or other items and collect ones you are finished with. Contact your local library for availability.
Would you like your group/ club or society featured on these pages?
Email wtgl@dartfordliving.com for a FREE listing
Dartford socials for the over 30’s more information visit:
Knit & Natter: bring your own project. Alternate Mondays, 10.15-12.30. Free with donation for refreshments. Contact communitysupport@ymcatg.org
RNEW Digital Kent: Get Digital! Whether you need support with using your tablet, the NHS app or just getting online.
We’re here to help! To book onto a session and find out more, please visit digitalkent.uk or call 03000 410 950. Longfield
Holy Trinity Dartford Bell Ringers
Have you ever heard the sound of Church Bells ringing and thought you would like to learn more about this Heritage skill? Why not come along, see how it’s done and give it a try yourself? No obligation.
We are a very friendly group of bell ringers who meet every Thursday evening at Holy Trinity Church Dartford. You do not need to have a faith or attend church, just have a ‘have a go’ attitude and the ability to climb the bell tower stairs. Anyone from early teens to eighties can learn to ring, and become a part of a countrywide family of bell ringers. So why not give it a try?
We meet On Thursday evenings from 7.30 till 9pm at Holy Trinity Bell Tower. Get in touch with us at htcdringers@gmail.com
Why the World Still Looks to Reggio
Across the world, one small town in northern Italy continues to shape the way educators think about childhood.
More than 80 years after it first began, the Reggio Emilia approach remains one of the most respected and influential philosophies in early years education and here in Dartford, it continues to inspire the practice at KatieB Kids.
Developed in the Italian town of Reggio Emilia following the Second World War, the philosophy was built on a simple but powerful belief: children are capable, curious and full of potential. Rather than seeing children as passive learners, the Reggio approach encourages educators to view children as active participants in their own learning journey.
At KatieB Kids, this philosophy underpins much of the nursery’s “Let’s Nurture Futures™” curriculum. The team places strong emphasis on relationships, curiosity, creativity and child-led exploration, recognising that young children learn best through meaningful experiences and secure connections with the adults around them.
This can look very different from the traditional image many people may have of education. Instead of heavily structured lessons, Reggio-inspired environments are designed to encourage exploration and investigation. Natural materials, sensory experiences, open-ended resources and thoughtful provocations invite children to think critically, ask questions and express themselves in a variety of ways.
One of the reasons the Reggio Emilia philosophy continues to resonate so strongly today is because it reflects what many parents instinctively know about young children: they learn through play, connection and curiosity. Whether children are searching for insects in the garden, building with loose parts, creating imaginative role play scenarios or exploring messy play, they are simultaneously developing communication skills, emotional understanding, resilience and problem-solving abilities.
The approach has recently gained renewed public attention, with Catherine, Princess of Wales currently visiting Reggio Emilia as part of her ongoing work championing the importance of early childhood development and her role as an ambassador for early years education. Her visit highlights
the growing international recognition of the importance of emotionally secure, relationship-led learning environments during the earliest years of life.
The nursery’s commitment to reflective and researchinformed practice continues this spring, as Operations Manager, Hayley, and Inclusion lead, Tina, visit Reggio Emilia themselves. Their visit includes exploring the internationally renowned infant-toddler centres and preschools that first pioneered the approach, bringing back further inspiration and reflection to support the nursery’s ongoing development. In a world increasingly shaped by technology, pressure and fast-paced routines, the enduring influence of Reggio Emilia offers an important reminder: childhood is not something to rush through. It is something to nurture, protect and deeply value.
To find out more about the approach, visit www.katiebkids.co.uk
A calm supportive start for you and your baby
The early months can feel overwhelming you don’t have to navigate them alone. Blossom Babies offers fully led sensory classes for babies f rom birth to 13 months, designed to nurture your baby’s development and connect you with other local parents.
13 years of supporting families
✔ Engaging sensory activities
✔ Practical baby tips
✔ Small supportive groups
✔ Guidance for each activity
✔ Toddler sessions f rom walking to age 3
Chocolate NYC style Cookies
By The Little Lavinia Bakery
Super indulgent and chunky, these cookies are delicious and look really impressive. You could swap some of the Chocolate to include fudge pieces or mini marshmallows.
What to do:
What you will need
120g Unsalted Butter
175g Light Brown Sugar
1 Egg
1 tsp Vanilla Extract
250g Plain Flour
40g Cocoa Powder
1 tsp Baking Powder
½ tsp Bicarbonate Of Soda
½ tsp Sea Salt (optional)
300g Chocolate Chips (made up from Milk, Dark & White Chocolate as you wish)
Preheat your oven to 170°C Fan/ 190°C and pop a sheet of baking paper onto two baking sheets.
In a large bowl, beat Butter and Sugar together until thick and creamy.
Add the Egg and Vanilla Extract and mix to combine. The mixture will look a little curdled until you begin to add Flour.
Add in the Plain Flour, Cocoa Powder, Baking Powder and Bicarbonate of Soda (and Salt if using) and fold until just combined. Stir through the Chocolate Chips.
You want to only get about 8 cookies from the mixture! So, divide the mixture into balls and place them into the freezer for about 30 minutes. Place four balls onto each of the prepared baking sheets.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 14 minutes. Leave to cool for about 20 minutes.
Enjoy!
How A Dartford SEO Expert Created a Global Nepali Sensation
Dartford has long been the cradle of musical revolution. From the moment Mick Jagger and Keith Richards met on our station platform, this town has been synonymous with culture-shifting creativity. Fast forward to 2026, and a new resident is proving that Dartford’s soul is just as vibrant today as it was in the era of Rock and Roll. Shakti Ghimire draws constant inspiration from the legends who came before him. In a charming local ritual, he never passes the Glimmer Twins statues at the Dartford town centre market without a respectful knock for good luck, a nod to the icons who paved the way for his own creative journey.
The Man Behind the Music: Shakti Ghimire
Shakti Ghimire is a professional who wears many hats, all of them digital. By day, he is a cornerstone of the local tech scene, serving as a Consultant SEO Manager for a prominent Dartford-based IT firm and running his own SEO agency in Woolwich, London. For Shakti, technical expertise is not just about data; it is a tool he has mastered through years of dedicated work. By blending a strategic digital approach with the emotional world of music, he has created something truly special with his viral hit, Sudur Aba Dur Nai, performed in his native Nepali.
A Natural Gift and a Personal Tribute
While his professional life is rooted in technology, Shakti’s connection to literacy and poetry is deeply personal. He describes his literary talent as a gift from birth, a natural inclination that he has nurtured over time. His songwriting journey began with a poignant mission. He taught himself the intricacies of poetry and composition specifically to create a music video for his father. This blend of natural talent and hard-earned skill has allowed him to thrive. As Shakti notes, he brought the knowledge and professional discipline he gained in the UK to his creative passions, achieving a level of success that has resonated across borders.
A Global Phenomenon
What started as a creative exercise in digital innovation has exploded into a global movement. As of 12 April 2026, the song has become the definitive sound of the year on social media for the Nepali community worldwide. The statistics are staggering: more than 241,000 unique videos created on TikTok alone using the sound, alongside a similar viral explosion on Facebook and Instagram.
The reach of the track is so vast that it has been featured in videos by Members of Parliament and Cabinet Ministers, alongside national athletes, famous singers, and high-level business leaders. It is now streaming worldwide on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon, and YouTube, reaching listeners in more than 150 countries.
Bridging Expertise and Tradition
In his daily work as a consultant, Shakti understands how to optimise reach and connect with an audience. He applied that same logic to his heritage, noting that while his professional life is about understanding what people search for, his music is about understanding what they feel. In this song, those two worlds come together perfectly.
Shakti’s success comes at a pivotal moment for our community. As the Dartford is a Town for Culture campaign gains momentum, he stands as a shining example of our town’s modern, diverse identity. He credits the unique energy of Dartford for providing the heart of his hit, noting that the creativity he sees in Kent’s businesses directly influenced the track. To Shakti, this success belongs to the Dartford community as much as it does to him.
Join the Movement
The song has even sparked a wave of cover videos, with fans from all walks of life performing their own versions. Whether he is walking through Central Park or helping local Kent businesses grow through his consultancy work, Shakti represents the next chapter of Dartford’s rich creative story. To experience the sound of 2026 for yourself, search for Sudur Aba Dur Nai by Shakti Ghimire on your favourite streaming platform and see how our town continues to foster creative voices that connect communities across the world.
Is your child preparing for the 11 plus exam?
Give them a head start this summer with our focused and engaging tutoring programme.
Staying
Attending
Having
Light
Planning
Diet
Helping
Same
Thank
Dartford Night Food Market
Friday 12th June, 5-9pm Dartford High Street World
Kick off the World Cup with flavours from around the globe – all at our night food market
There’ll also be desserts, drinks, World Cup giveaways and entertainment from football freestylers, drummers, DJs, face painters, children’s rides & more!
what’s on in
Jeremy Kite, Leader Dartford Borough Council
Echoes of Dartford: A Bear Telling A Town’s Story
Henrika Stasiule did not set out to become part of Dartford’s story.
Yet this summer, thousands of people will stop in front of her sculpture and see fragments of the town reflected back at them.
Echoes of Dartford is one of more than 80 sculptures in ellenor’s We’re Going on a Bear Hunt trail, the first of its kind for the charity and the town. For a few months, brightly painted bears will appear in streets, shopping centres and everyday corners of Dartford changing the rhythm of everyday life.
. Across the bear’s body, a honeycomb of archive images shows Dartford as it once was. Old streets. Railway scenes. Churches, public spaces, and fragments of everyday life. Some places are still recognisable. Others have changed beyond recognition.
“Echoes of Dartford is for the people of Dartford,” Henrika says. “I wanted people to recognise places of their own story within it - to remember what once stood here, reconnect with moments from their lives, and pass those memories on to future generations.”
Originally from Lithuania, Henrika earned a Master’s degree in Fine Art before life gradually led her into photography. For more than 15 years, she has worked with photographs and family albums, preserving weddings, childhoods, milestones, and fleeting moments - helping people hold on to memories that might otherwise fade with time.
This project, she says, feels different.
“I usually create something very personal” she says. “Something only one family will see. This is different. These images belong to everyone.”
The photographs used in Echoes of Dartford were sourced from local archives of Dartford Borough Museum and mostly date from the early 20th century. For Henrika, who has lived in Dartford for ten years, working with them became a way of understanding her adopted home more deeply.
“I spent half my life in Lithuania and half here in UK,” she says. “Dartford feels like my second home.”
She grew up in the old town of Kaunas, surrounded by historic buildings and narrow streets. As a child, she remembers her father
teaching her to draw and her mother signing her up for public outdoor art competitions, where she stood at an easel in the town square alongside her twin sister and other children while passersby stopped to watch.
That sense of place and people has always stayed with her.
“If I went back home, the very first places I would visit would be the ones where I grew up - my childhood home, which has now been turned into a music museum, my nursery, my school, the old streets in the heart of the old town where I grew up, and the art academy where I studied,” she says. “People move on, but places stay with you. You remain connected to them.”
That idea sits at the heart of her sculpture. Each honeycomb cell holds a fragment of Dartford’s past. But Henrika has deliberately left some spaces empty.
“The idea was to leave space for the future,” she says. “For new memories to be added. Because the story is still being written.”
In many ways, that feels fitting for ellenor too. Henrika’s sculpture is one of more than 80 appearing across Dartford this summer as part of the charity’s public art trail. Much of hospice care is about helping people hold on to moments, memories and one another during the hardest times.
Henrika had not heard of ellenor before submitting her design. Through the project, she has started to understand the role the charity plays for local families living with a life-limiting illness.
“I didn’t know about ellenor before,” she says. “But I can see now how important it is for local families.”
There is another memory hidden within the sculpture, too. Henrika created the bear alongside her daughter, Barbora, as a mother-daughter artistic duo. Barbora carefully hand-painted the stencils used to transfer the historic images onto its surface and also suggested including an image of the legendary Mick Jagger and Keith Richards. Together, they added two small bees to the design - a subtle personal detail quietly woven into the artwork.
“That was her idea,” Henrika says. “Barbora really wanted to add her personal touch - It’s our signature. Mum and daughter working together.”
For Henrika, that mattered just as much as the finished bear.
I wanted to show her how something you create doesn’t just stay on paper. It can be out there, for everyone to see.”
When the trail opens in July, thousands of people will bring their own memories to Echoes of Dartford. A shop they remember. A street that no longer exists. A story once told by a grandparent. Some may only glance at it in passing. Others may find themselves standing there longer than they expected.
Henrika hopes the bear will spark pride, curiosity and conversation.
“People will talk about the past - about the places they remember, the stories they grew up with, and the history they may never have known before.”
Like the trail itself, the sculpture is about connection. Bringing people together through shared stories, memories and place while raising awareness of ellenor and the care it provides across the community.
Asked what her younger self would think if she stood in front of the sculpture now, she smiles.
“I think my younger self would feel immensely proud of what we achieved together with my daughter.”
Perhaps that is part of what makes Echoes of Dartford feel so special. Rooted in the town’s past, it is also about memory. The streets people remember, the old photographs and fragments of history passed from one generation to the next.
And now, for a little while at least, they will become part of the town again.
To find out more information about the Dartford Bear Hunt visit dartfordbearhunt.co.uk
How Do I Know If I Have Diabetes?
Diabetes is a serious condition where blood sugars are too high. This can be when your body can’t produce insulin (type 1 diabetes) or when the insulin is not effective or you don’t produce enough (type 2 diabetes). There are other types of diabetes, such as gestational diabetes, MODY, LADA and Type 3c. In all types of diabetes, cells cannot use glucose for energy so it builds up in your blood. This leads to the main symptoms of diabetes:
• Being thirsty
• Going to the toilet a lot, especially at night
• Feeling tired
• Poor healing of cuts/wounds
• Losing weight without trying to
• Genital itching or thrush
• Blurred vision
Not everyone with diabetes has all of these symptoms. If you suspect you have diabetes, a simple blood test can help.
Type 1 diabetes
Most children with diabetes will have type 1 diabetes. Although you can develop type 1 diabetes at any age, it is most often diagnosed in childhood. We don’t know what causes type 1 diabetes. Only about 10% of people with diabetes have type 1 diabetes.
For type 1 diabetes, we talk about the 4 T’s:
• Toilet – passing urine frequently, getting up at night or new bed wetting, heavier nappies
• Thirsty – being really thirsty and not being able to quench their thirst
• Tired – feeling more tired than usual, not having as much energy to play or do sports
• Thinner – losing weight or looking thinner
You should seek urgent medical advice if your child has these symptoms. Your GP or nurse can quickly check a urine sample or a finger prick to look for high glucose levels. If it is high, they will send you to the hospital that day for diagnosis and to start treatment. It is important for children to be seen as soon as diabetes is suspected to prevent the risk of developing a condition called Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA), which can be life threatening and needs admission to hospital. By recognising the 4 T’s above, we hope to identify children before they develop DKA. Insulin is the treatment for type 1 diabetes. Someone with type 1 diabetes cannot survive without insulin. These are either given as injections just under the skin or via an insulin pump. People with type 1 diabetes will need to check their blood glucose levels regularly and keep them controlled to avoid complications of diabetes. They may be given a flash or continuous glucose monitor so they don’t have to keep pricking their fingers.
Type 2 diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is much less common in children than type 1 but is the most common cause of diabetes in adults. Risk factors includes obesity, family member with type 2 diabetes and certain ethnicities (Black African, African Caribbean, South Asian or Chinese). Keeping active and maintaining a healthy diet and weight can reduce your risk. The symptoms of type 2 diabetes can be similar but often come on much more slowly in adults and children. The diagnosis is less urgent but equally important to prevent complications.
Being diagnosed with diabetes
Being told you or your child has diabetes can be a frightening time. Children may be quite unwell when they are diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, admitted to hospital, put on a drip and surrounded by lots of medical professionals. It can take time to come to terms with this diagnosis and to make adaptations to the way you live your life. At times you will cope really well, and other times may be a struggle. There is support available from the diabetes team at the hospital, if you are under their care, and your GP practice team. The Diabetes UK website is a good source of support and advice.
Dr Julie Taylor is a GP Partner and Trainer at the Wellcome Practice and the Primary Care Medical Director for Dartford Gravesham and Swanley Health and Care Partnership.
Senior Snippets: Staying Safe on Social Media
By Christina Uppenkamp Home Instead
Welcome to the latest edition of Senior Snippets — our monthly advisory column with the older members of our community in mind, brought to you by Christina Uppenkamp, Home Instead Dartford.
In this instalment, I’d like to share some tips on how to stay safe while enjoying social media and the wider online world.
Technology now plays a part in almost everything we do. From keeping in touch with loved ones to ordering groceries or attending virtual appointments, being online has become part of everyday life. Encouragingly, more older people than ever are embracing technology, with the majority of those aged 65 and over now using the internet regularly.
This growing confidence online has brought many positives. Social media and digital tools can help reduce loneliness, improve mental wellbeing, and keep people connected to family, friends, and local communities. Many people are now using platforms such as Facebook, WhatsApp, and video calling services like Zoom or Microsoft Teams to stay in touch, join community groups, share interests, and even learn new skills.
However, as more of us spend time online, it’s important to stay vigilant. Unfortunately, scams and online fraud are becoming increasingly sophisticated. Criminals are now using more advanced methods, including fake messages, impersonation, and even AI-generated content designed to look convincing.
With this in mind, here are some simple but effective tips to help you stay socially connected — and safe:
Create strong, unique passwords
Use a combination of letters, numbers, and symbols, and avoid using personal information such as birthdays. Use different passwords for different accounts especially for banking or shopping sites — this adds an extra layer of protection.
Turn on two-factor authentication (2FA)
This means you’ll receive a code (usually by text or app) when logging in, making it much harder for someone else to access your accounts.
Be mindful of what you share
Avoid posting personal details such as your address, phone number, or daily routines publicly.
Check your privacy settings
Make sure your social media profiles are set to private so only people you know can see your posts.
Be cautious with messages and links
Scam messages can look very convincing, even appearing to come from trusted organisations or family members. If in doubt, don’t click — and always double-check.
Never send money to someone you’ve only met online
This includes people who claim to be in an emergency or building a relationship with you.
Verify requests for help or money
If you receive a message claiming to be from a friend or relative, call them directly to confirm.
Only use trusted websites for payments
Look for the padlock symbol in the website address bar and ensure it begins with “https”.
Trust your instincts
If something doesn’t feel right or seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Staying Connected with Confidence
The internet is a wonderful tool when used safely. It can open doors to new friendships, hobbies, and support networks — all from the comfort of your home.
By taking a few simple precautions, you can enjoy everything the online world has to offer while protecting yourself from harm.
Did you know?
We also offer free scam awareness sessions for the public, helping individuals and community groups build confidence and stay safe online — please feel free to get in touch if this would be of interest.
I’d love to hear from you! If you have a suggestion for a future topic, please feel free to get in touch: c.uppenkamp@dartford.homeinstead.co.uk or via 01322 923750.
Stay sharp with Home Instead
Across
1. Start of the working week (6)
4. Channel (6)
9. Type of antelope (3)
10. Slowly progressive (7)
11. Breathed out (7)
12. Beneath (5)
13. Steel tower (5)
15. Sphere (5)
20. Review (5)
22. Decorative bird (7)
24. Bar game (7)
25. Rug (3)
26. Creepy, eerie (6)
27. Seek (6)
Down
1. ‘Attractive’ metal! (6)
2. Badly behaved (7)
3. A spiritual or pure being (5)
5. Curious, odd (7)
6. Covered with ceramic slabs (5)
7. Chronicle, narrate (6)
8. Convenient (5)
14. Attitude, perspective (7)
16. Type of loaf (7)
17. Antagonise (6)
18. Talked (5)
19. Rough drawing (6)
21. Type of dance (5)
23. Concur (5)
1. Which English city is known as “The Steel City”?
2. What is the longest river in the UK?
Crossword Sudoku
3. Which long‑running British soap opera is set in the fictional town of Weatherfield?
4. Which band released the 1975 album A Night at the Opera?
5. St Andrews is known as the home of which sport?
6. Strawberries, cucumber and lemonade are added to which summer time drink?
7. Which British monarch had the longest reign before Queen Elizabeth II?
8. Aside from water, What is the world’s most consumed Beverage?
9. If you followed the trail built by the Incas, you would find what?
10. Which tennis player has won the most men’s Wimbledon titles?
Local Clubs
Hi Kent Hearing Aid Clinic:
Call in to have your hearing aid cleaned and re-tubed and collect new batteries. Find out how to make the best of your hearing aid.
Ashen Drive Library – 3 rd Thursday of the month 2.30 – 3.30
Fleetdown Library - 2 nd Thursday of the month 2.00 – 3.30
Sutton-at-Hone Library – 2 nd Friday of the month 11.00 – 12.00
Kent Pathways Service Help Desk:
The Kent Pathways Service provide support for people with disabilities become more independent and develop life skills to improve quality of life. To find out more about The Kent Pathways Service please visit: https://www.kent.gov.uk/social-care-andhealth/adult-social-care/care-andsupport/disability/learning-disability/kent-pathwayservice
Dartford Library – Every other Tuesday 10.00 – 12.00
THE WELLBEING LINK
The Wellbeing Link meets on Friday mornings from 10-1pm in the St. Anselm’s Parish Centre, 89 West Hill, Dartford A friendly and informative group is a support group for people with any life affecting health issues from loneliness and isolation to life limiting conditions. - call Julie On 07775875585
Dartford Ostomy Group Support (DOGS) meet every third Wednesday in the month at St Anselm’s Parish Centre, West Hill, Dartford DA1 2HJ from 1.00 pm to 3.00 pm. It is for anyone who has an Ileostomy, Colostomy, Urostomy, IBS and pouch, their carers, family and friends.
ALL DIRECTIONS
is a community learning organisation for adults and young people aged 16+ with physical, learning and mental health difficulties. For more information, attend a taster session or visit our community lunch club, contact Caroline on 01322 837172 or 07570 347612
Bexley and Dartford Branch Parkinsons UK For people with Parkinsons and their carers. Dartford: 2nd Wednesday of each month, Mick Jagger Centre, 7 -9pm. Information support workers available, guest speakers and quizzes. Contact Wendy Leach. Tel: 02083065973
The North West Kent Branch of the Motor Neurone Disease Association meets on various date at Birchwood Country Club For more information contact Mark – 07966537814
Kindness and Wellbeing Group It’s every Tuesday 9.3011.30am at St Edmund’s church Dartford. We have loads on offer for just £3 per week including a cuppa, crafts and a friendly chat.
WILMARA Wilmington Active Retirement Group. We are an active retirement group who meet on the third Friday of the month from 2pm till 4pm at the Memorial Hall in Wilmington. Our activities include guest speakers, outings, holidays, theatre trips, tenpin bowling, Petanque, Kurling, indoor sports activities and a lunch club. Please
comealong and pay us a visit you will be very welcome! Telephone Membership Secretary. Wendy Murray 01322 226943
Hawley and Sutton at Hone Active Retirement
Association is a friendly group of retired and semi-retired men and women over 55. We have a monthly meeting on the second Thursday at Sutton at Hone Scout Hut at 1.30pm. Associated activities include keep fit, short mat bowls and outings. Come along to a meeting [£2 entrance] or call Carol on 07912 564710. You will receive a warm welcome.
WIlmington and Axstane Probus Club
We are a group of retired men who meet monthly for a lunch and a speaker at the Swanley Bowls Centre. We also have a monthly walk and occasional coffee mornings and as a side line we raise money for a local charity. If you are missing the contact with other business men since you retired, why not come and join us on the last Thursday of every month. For more details contact Phil Burt on 01322 274541 or look at our website www.waprobus.com
JARA
- Joydens Wood Active Retirement Association
We meet on the first Tuesday of every month at 2pm in the Joydens Wood Community Centre, Birchwood Drive DA2 7NE. Be active, be happy and make new friends with similar interests with events and activities on offer to suit everyone
You are welcome to join in and participate as you wish. Call Delma 01322 556081
Yoga & Meditation Classes
Every Tuesday from 6-7pm at Peppercorns, 3 Orchard Street, Dartford, Kent, DA1 2DF. For more information please call The Hope Group on 07722 629446
Fairfield (Dartford) WI We meet on the second Tuesday of the month at Dartford Girls Grammar School at 7.30pm. Activities include guest speakers, theatre visits and monthly lunches.New members welcome. For more information please call Judith on 01322 278703 Crayford WI Baker Trust Hall Maxim Road, Crayford DA1 4BG 1.30 to 3.30pm 1st Thursday of the month. Phone: Phone: Gloria on 01322 405737 Mobile: 07791353128 for more information
ROTARY CLUB OF DARTFORD This Club meets at the Royal Victoria and Bull Hotel on the first, second and third Tuesday of every month. Time: 12.45 for 1 pm start. If you would like further details please contact the Secretary on 07706103706.
DARTFORD HISTORICAL & ANTIQUARIAN SOCIETY meets usually on 3rd Friday in the month ( October to May) at the Mick Jagger Centre, Shepherds Lane, Dartford at 7.30 p.m. See website for details.
Hartley Poetry Society If you enjoy reading and/or writing poetry you will be given a warm welcome by this friendly and enthusiastic group. We meet on the first Monday of each month at 7pm at The Pavilion, Punch Croft Road, New Ash Green in the Green Room.We read poems according to a different theme each month and there is also plenty of lively discussion. For further information please phone Kathryn (01474 704058)
DARTFORD LIONS CLUB (CIO)
This club meets at The Hill Hub, 1a Highfield Road, Dartford, DA1 2TJ at 7pm every first Tuesday of the Month.
Like minded volunteers welcome. If you would like further information please contact 07951 822015
Dartford Arts Network (DAN) – is a welcoming community of creatives and a local inclusive arts and culture network serving Dartford. Are you an artist, maker, photographer, writer, or just curious to explore your creative side?
Become a member and you can
· Learn/Grow through workshops
· Meet/Collaborate or run your own sessions
· Show your work in exhibitions
· Join group art and community projects
We meet every first Monday of the month at 7:30pm in a cosy atmosphere.
Membership is just £20/year – and worth every spark of inspiration. Get in touch hello@dartfordartsnetwork.com
DARTFORD CHORAL SOCIETY A warm welcome awaits newcomers to Dartford’s oldest choir - established over 100 years ago. We rehearse on Monday evenings between 7.30pm and 9.30pm at The Mick Jagger Centre, Shepherds Lane, from September to June and perform four concerts annually. Just turn up to sample the delights of choral singing! For more information please contact the Chairman, Pat Everington. Tel: 01322 220124.
North Kent Nomads Model Club
Located in Dartford, we have one of the most desirable model flying sites in the country. As a club we have been established since the 1930s. We are multi disciplined, catering for Power, Glider, Electric and Helicopters. We welcome fliers of all skill levels, and offer advice and training for beginners.
For further information, visit us at http://www.nomadsmc. co.uk
For an informal chat, contact Ken on 07515 937 078
Fun Friends Social Groups
Social groups for children and young adults with additional needs aged 7-25. No diagnosis or EHCP necessary. Groups are based in Sidcup, Swanley and Wilmington after school, and on Saturdays - with summer holiday activities, trips, birthday parties and much more throughout the year. For more information please contact Esther Dawson on 07745036868 or Funfriendsgroups@gmail.com . https://www.facebook.com/funfriendsgroups/ https://instagram.com/ funfriends2017?igshid=tocvdnel5i4f
SCREEMING BANSHEES GOTHIC MORRIS Want to have fun, make friends and get fit? Join our friendly Morris group in Hawley. Dancers and musicians of any age needed - no experience necessary! Find us on Facebook. Contact us at screemingbanshees14@gmail.com for further details.
JOYDENS WOOD GARDENING CLUB – A WARM WELCOME
AWAITS YOU
Do you enjoy gardening, nature, and good company?
Whether you’re an experienced gardener or enjoy pottering outdoors, our friendly club offers something for everyone. We meet monthly with guest speakers covering topics like herbs, garden design, and conservation. We also enjoy outings to beautiful gardens, afternoon teas, group meals, and a summer garden party.
Meetings: First Thursday of each month
Venue: St Barnabas Church, Tile Kiln Lane, Bexley, DA5 2BB
Email: jwgardeningclub@gmail.com
Call Chris on: 07938 117389 or 07305 563814
Come along and grow with you.
We are Dartford Active Retirement Association meeting every 2nd Thursday at the Fleetdown Community Centre, Dartford from 2pm-4pm. We are looking for new members retired or semi-retired from the age of 55 to join us, we enjoy a range of activities including, art, tea and cake, short mat bowls and holidays .At our Thursday monthly meetings we have either a speaker or singer to entertain us.
Please contact membership secretary, Mel Foster on 01322 227519 for more information.
Meridian Lodge of West Kent No.9202
Are you interested in Freemasonry?
Then come and join us at the Dartford Masonic Centre, West Hill
We meet every Wednesday at 8pm
Contact the Secretary: davehudson948@gmail.com
Whist Club
Christchurch Dartford Tuesdays 12:30 - 3pm
We are a small, friendly club. We would love to see some new faces. All levels welcome.
For more information contact Gill Bodman on 07414 818944
We have a robust activity programme and currently offer over 50 events a year, including monthly membership meetings with entertainment & refreshments, and frequent art classes, short walks, theatre and coast trips, socials, lunch & dinner meals, seasonal events, holidays
Open to new members in the Joydens Wood area and surrounding vicinities. If you are 50 or over, semi-/retired, wish to remain active, and membership is of interest, call or drop us a line: Graham – 01322 528 596 or E-M: membership@joyara.org.uk Or visit our website for more information: www.joyara,org.uk
Ageing Without Children Dartford & Gravesham is a local group of the registered charity, Ageing Without Children UK (AWOC). We are a group with a mainly social focus – meeting for meals and drinks in Dartford and Gravesham.
If you live in the Dartford or Gravesham area you are welcome to join us, regardless of the reason. To join, offer support or receive details of forthcoming events, contact us on awocdg@gmail.com and https://www.facebook. com/groups/1275750534497166
JOYARA – 2ND JOYDENS WOOD ACTIVE RETIREMENT ASSOCIATION
Ibiza: More Than a Party Island – A Mediterranean Escape Full of Style, Soul & Sunshine
Having just returned from the beautiful island of Ibiza, it is easy to understand why so many people fall in love with this magical corner of the Mediterranean and return year after year.
For years, Ibiza has been known around the world for its legendary nightlife, iconic sunsets and famous superclubs. But to describe Ibiza purely as a party island would be doing this beautiful Mediterranean gem a huge injustice. The truth is, Ibiza is one of the most diverse and effortlessly stylish destinations in Europe — an island where glamorous beach clubs sit alongside peaceful hidden coves, family-friendly resorts, bohemian villages and elegant boutique hotels full of character and charm.
Whether you are searching for a sophisticated adults-only escape, a fun-filled family holiday, world-class dining or unforgettable nights dancing under the stars, Ibiza has a way of drawing people back time and time again.
By Harden Holidays
One of the island’s greatest strengths is the incredible variety of hotels on offer. Luxury lovers can indulge in chic adults-only resorts such as the stunning TRS Ibiza Hotel, where rooftop sunsets, premium all-inclusive dining and laid-back sophistication create the perfect island atmosphere. Stylish lifestyle hotels such as The Unexpected Ibiza Hotel and Ushuaïa Ibiza Beach Hotel deliver the iconic Ibiza energy the island is famous for — vibrant pool scenes, international DJs and unforgettable daytime parties just steps from the beach.
For those looking for something more relaxed and soulful, Ibiza also excels at boutique elegance. Hidden gems like Mongibello capture a completely different side of the island — romantic, nostalgic and beautifully quirky, with faded Italian glamour and a slower pace of life that feels worlds away from the busy nightlife scene.
Families are equally spoilt for choice. Resorts such as Grand Palladium Select Palace Ibiza and Palladium Hotel Palmyra offer spacious accommodation, excellent pools, entertainment programmes and fantastic beachfront locations ideal for both couples and families travelling with children. Many family resorts also provide superb all-inclusive options, giving parents the opportunity to truly relax while little ones enjoy everything from splash pools to kids’ clubs.
Long lazy lunches overlooking turquoise waters quickly turn into sunset cocktails as beach clubs begin to come alive with music and atmosphere. Watching the sunset at the legendary Café del Mar remains one of Ibiza’s essential experiences — a moment where the whole island seems to pause as the sky transforms into shades of gold, orange and pink.
And then, of course, there is the nightlife. Ibiza remains the global capital of electronic music and club culture, attracting the world’s biggest DJs and music lovers every summer. Iconic venues such as Hï Ibiza continue to push nightlife experiences to another level with spectacular sound systems, immersive production and unforgettable performances that last until sunrise.
Yet somehow Ibiza manages to balance all of this energy with moments of complete tranquillity. Quiet coves, yoga retreats, wellness hotels, charming marinas and picturesque old towns all exist alongside the famous nightlife. That is the true magic of Ibiza. It can be glamorous and peaceful, lively and luxurious, family-friendly and world-famous — all at the same time.
If you like what you read, be in touch and let’s get you there. Book your Ibiza escape with Harden Holidays.
W. LEWIS
Property Maintenance
Moss cleared from all types of roofs
Tiling, Slating, Chimney Stacks, Ridges, Flat Roofs, Re-pointing Work, Exterior Painting, New Guttering and Fascia Boards
When thoughts become too loud: Overthinking and finding some control
By Louise Garner, MBACP Integrative Counsellor
Most people overthink from time to time. Replaying conversations, worrying about decisions, imagining worst-case scenarios, or analysing situations long after they have passed can feel like part of everyday life. However, when overthinking becomes constant, it can leave people feeling emotionally drained, anxious, and unable to switch off.
Overthinking often develops as a way of trying to stay in control. The mind searches for certainty, reassurance, or the “right” answer, particularly during times of stress or emotional difficulty. While this can begin as an attempt to protect ourselves, it can quickly become exhausting. Many people find themselves stuck in cycles of worry, self-doubt, or rumination that affect sleep, concentration, confidence, and relationships.
For some, overthinking centres around the past — replaying situations and questioning whether they said or did the wrong thing. For others, it focuses on the future and the fear of what might happen. Even small decisions can begin to feel overwhelming. Over time, this constant mental activity can create a sense of emotional tension that is difficult to escape. People who struggle with overthinking are often highly self-aware, thoughtful, and sensitive to others. Yet these qualities can sometimes turn inward in unhelpful ways. The internal pressure to get things right, avoid mistakes, or anticipate problems can lead to increased anxiety and emotional burnout.
Counselling can provide valuable support for those caught in these patterns. Therapy offers a calm and confidential space to slow thoughts down and explore what may be driving them beneath the surface. Often, overthinking is connected to anxiety, low self-esteem, past experiences, perfectionism, or a fear of judgement. Understanding these underlying issues can help reduce the intensity of mental overwhelm.
A counsellor can also help clients recognise unhelpful thinking patterns and develop healthier ways of responding to stress and uncertainty. Rather than trying to “stop thinking,” therapy focuses on creating a different relationship with thoughts — one that feels less consuming and more manageable.
Importantly, counselling is not about giving quick fixes or telling someone to “just relax.” Meaningful therapeutic work involves feeling heard, understood, and supported without judgement. For many people, simply having space to speak openly can bring a sense of relief and clarity that has been missing for a long time.
Overthinking can make people feel isolated, even when they appear to be coping on the outside. Seeking support is not a sign of weakness or failure. It is an opportunity to better understand yourself, reduce emotional pressure, and find healthier ways to navigate life’s challenges.
Sometimes the mind becomes so busy trying to protect us that it forgets to let us rest. Counselling can help create that space again.
Some simple ways to help yourself at home when you find yourself overthinking.
• Write the things that are worrying you down, using pen and paper
• Think about what you can control, are there any actions you can take?
• Take a short walk
• Focus on your breathing
• Complete a practical task, cooking, gardening, craft
Your goal shouldn’t be to silence the thoughts but to feel less controlled by them.
Jim Dickson MP for Dartford
As your local MP I am working hard to make sure your voice is heard in Government. Whether you are a resident or a business, what matters to you, matters to me.
My focus remains to get Dartford moving. Improving road congestion, supporting the Lower Thames Crossing and pushing for the repair of Galley Hill are my priorities. The NHS and policing are other key areas I am working on. Residents tell me the new Community Diagnostic Centre is a welcome addition to our community and I am in regular touch with Darent Valley Hospital to ensure they know the issues you face. I am working with the police to press the Government for action on catapult crime. And I am supporting many residents’ groups in their fight against property management companies. I am here working for you. Please get in touch to let me know how I can help.
Jim.dickson@parliament.uk Follow me on Instagram, Facebook and X
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Local Sports and Fitness Groups
Dartford and White Oak Triathlon club
We are the local British Triathlon Federation Club covering Bexley, Dartford and Swanley. We offer coached swimming sessions 3 times per week at White oak pool in Swanley and Fairfield pool in Dartford. Our members compete in many local Triathlons plus many members are training towards Iron Man distance. We also have our own Triathlon in June every year which has been running since 1989. If you are interested in joining us then please visit our website http://www.dartfordandwhiteoaktri.co.uk
Kent Exiles American Football Club
www.kentexiles.co.uk.
Coach Martin - 07944 730634. All ages from 7 years to adult welcome
Dartford Road Runners
Dartford Road Runners are based at Princes Park Stadium and are one of the biggest road running clubs in Kent. We currently have about 200 members of all abilities including a beginners group. DRR teams compete in the Kent League, the Assembly League and the Kent Fitness League. To see what we offer and how to join us please visit our website – anyone is welcome to join us with all abilities. http://dartfordroadrunners.co.uk/node/440
Dartford Harriers Athletics Club
Dartford Harriers is among the leading athletics clubs in Kent, with a history stretching back to the 1920’s, making it one of the oldest clubs in the country. If you are interested in seeing how we can help you advance your Athletics then please visit our website www.dartfordharriersac.co.uk
Central Park Athletics Club
We are situated in Dartford’s outstanding Central Park and can provide access to a state of the art running track (re-laid in 2015) and the full range of track and field facilities for just £4.50 per session (we offer discounted annual memberships). Refreshments and changing facilities are also available. For no extra charge, we hold coached track sessions on Wednesday evenings for runners of all abilities. For more information please visit our website centralparkathletics.co.uk
Ashes Badminton Club
meets every Monday 7.30pm – 9.15pm at Dartford Science and Technology College. We are a sociable nonleague club and would welcome new players age 18 and over. Call 07764 182854 for more information
CPA Swifts
Every Sunday 10-11am – Child friendly coached sessions – Come and join the CPA Swifts – As a fledgling club we would like to give children of all ages and abilities the chance to experience training and coaching within a club environment – come and be part of the team. Free first session with this advert
So Let’s go Running (SLGR)
SLGR is a local running club with structured training sessions designed to improve runners speed and stamina.
The runs available are the free session at 7pm meeting at The Dart, Chastilian Road, DA1 3JJ for 5 and 8k runs every Tuesday. Open to everyone and suitable for all abilities including beginners. We have run couch to 5k before covid and hope to do another in the Spring. Our affiliated club meets on Thursdays and Sundays and is also fully inclusive of all abilities.
You can find more information on our website teamslgr. com or email us at slgr.contact@gmail.com
DARTFORD JU JITSU
CLUB
Mondays 7-8pm for 7-16s at the Dartford Girls Grammar, Shepherds Lane Dartford DA1 2NT in the Dance Studio. We have an adult class 8-10pm too.
We’ve been running for 20 years, building confidence, teaching self-defence, hardening the target, developing skills and always welcome new members.
Dartford Gymnastics
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 www.dartfordgymnastics.co.uk for full details or contact Linda on 01322 409312 or emaildartfordgymclub@yahoo.co.uk
Dartford Hockey Club
We are a welcoming hockey club for women of all abilities. Whether you’re new to the sport or an experienced player, you’ll find a friendly environment here. We are committed to making hockey accessible to everyone, so we do not charge a membership fee. Join us for fun, fitness, and friendship on and off the field!
For further information visit our website www. dartfordhockeyclub.co.uk Instagram @dartfordhockey
Learn karate with Yamato Damashii – for adults & children
Every Wednesday evening at the Leigh Academy & every Saturday morning at Becket Sport Centre, first lesson free.
For more info, visit www.ydma.club or find us on Facebook, search for Yamato Damashii Martial Arts.
Bexley Croquet Club (behind Crayford manor house
Mayplace Road West)
We play golf croquet which is good fun and quite fast, it gets both brain and body to work. It’s not ‘posh’ , we are a friendly bunch and you would be made most welcome. Our season starts mid April, so, this is to let you know in advance.
We play Tues. Wed. and Thursday afternoons usually
between 1pm and 4pm . Free On site parking and bus 492 stops outside
No equipment or special attire needed ,just come along and give it a go. Web Site www.bexleycroquet.org
Or contact me . John on 01322 525975 or e.mail me J.baker864@btinternet.com
Hesketh Park Bowling Club
Park Road, Dartford DA1 1ST
Open from: April-September Come along and have a go at bowls. Tel: Julie 01322 229886 www.heskethparkbowlingclub.org
No Strings Badminton sessions, Tuesdays
Juniors (£6 per player) 5:30-6:30pm Adults (£8.50 per player) 6:30-8:30pm Cash or card payments.
At Beckets sports centre, DA1 2JB. All abilities, ages and solo players welcome, but direct 1:1 coaching is not able to be given.
Seeds Cycling Club Dartford
Seeds is a long-established cycling Club in Dartford and we share our headquarters at Hesketh with Dartford Cricket Club. We cater for most abilities and have a social ride most Saturday mornings. For info on joining us please visit our website www.seedscycling.co.uk
WALKING TENNIS GROUP
Finding it difficult to play social tennis? Please come to Bexley Lawn Tennis Club and give walking tennis a try. A much slower paced game with a great group of people who don’t take it seriously. Wednesdays 12.30-2pm. Contact: colleenmedcraft@yahoo.co.uk.
Dartford Parkrun
Dartford parkrun is a free to enter 5k run every Saturday morning starting by the Dartford harriers track in Central Park at 9am. All participants get a time a position emailed and texted after the event. To register go to www.parkrun.org.uk. Remember to bring your printed Barcode.
Every Sunday Morning in the Park there is a Junior parkrun over 2k
Wheelchair Epee Fencing
Wheelchair epee fencing in Dartford and Gravesham, we are delighted to announce that New Ash Green Epee club, can now introduce wheelchair fencing. If interested in taking up this para sport please contact us on 01474 871484 or alternatively look at our website www. nagfencing.eu
ENERGY FITNESS AND NUTRITION
I run group fitness classes as well as 1-1 and semi private personal training sessions in Darenth at Dimples Day Nursery DA2 7HT. ENERGY Fitness & Nutrition: we offer a wide variety of group classes such as strength & conditioning, boot camps, Boxercise, mum and baby
classes, inside and outside classes with great equipment and suitable for all abilities. The website is www.energyfitnut.co.uk
WEST KENT ROAD CLUB
We are an established cycling club that has set up an easy paced led ride on Friday mornings. Anyone who is new to cycling or who is returning to cycling is welcome as is any type of roadworthy bike or ebike. We meet at the Wilmington Memorial Hall, Wilmington at Meet at: 09:15. Depart at: 09:30. If you would like further information, please visit our club website: http://wkrc.org.uk/ “contact us” option and complete the contact form there.
We also run longer rides on Wednesday and Sunday mornings, please see our website for details if interested: http://wkrc.org.uk/
DANCING IN LINE
Every Tuesday, Goodman Dance Centre, Market Street DA1 IEY, 10:30 am, £9
POWER YOGA
Every Tuesday, Jubilee Hall, Horton Rod, South Darenth DA4 9AX, 19:30, £10
DANCE FITNESS
Every Thursday, St Anselms Parish Centre, West Hill DA1 2HJ, 19:30, £8
More information: www.dancegeneration.co.uk
Crossword
1. Sheffield 2. River Severn 3. Coronation Street
Queen 5. Golf 6. Pimm’s 7. Queen Victoria 8. Tea 9. Machu Picchu 10. Roger Federer Quiz
Sudoku
Useful Numbers
Key Numbers
Police 01622 690690 NON EMERGENCY ONLY
Call 999 in an Emergency Fire, Police, Ambulance and Coastguard 101 Non Emergency Number for Kent Police NHS 111
Crimestoppers 0800 555 111
Fire Safety Advice & FREE Home Fire Safety Check 0800 169 1125
Dartford Borough Council 01322 343434
Gas Leaks (24 hour) 0800 111 999
EDF Energy Networks Emergencies/Powercuts Helpline 105
Flooding 03459881180
Highways Kent 03000 41 41 41
Social Services 03000 41 41 41
Water Burst 0800 820 999 (Southern) 0800 714614 (Thames)
Kent Homophobic Incident Reporting Line: 0800 328 9162
Kent Racial Incident Reporting Line: 0800 138 1624
Local Breastfeeding Counsellors Judianne/Paula 01322 224072
National Domestic Violence Helpline (24 hour) 0808 2000 247
NSPCC Child Protection Helpline: 0808 800 5000
RSPCA Kent, North West Branch Helpline 01322 286720
Samaritans: 116 123
Travel
Heathrow Airport Enquires 08700 000123
Gatwick Airport Enquires 08700 002468
National Rail Enquires 08456 484950
National Highways Info Line 0300 123 5000
Bexley Accessible Transport Scheme –01322 311 333 (www.bexleyct.co.uk) Fully accessible transport services for the elderly and those with additional needs. Become a member today!
