Description

First formed in 1895 we have a long and successful history and can boast the title of the oldest surviving Village band in Kent. The band can be seen at a range of events and venues across the South East and are available for Concert Performances, weddings and community events.

The band is a friendly, non-contesting 4th Section band and would warmly welcome new members on any instrument. We currently have vacancies in the Bass section.

Practices are held on a Thursday in the modern Village Hall in East Peckham from 8 – 10pm and afterwards members sometimes retire to the local pub to quench their thirst.

The band consists of beginners through to professional musicians and support and tuition is provided to all.

We also have a junior band which is a fun opportunity for young brass players to experience and practise ensemble brass playing and is suitable for players aged around 8-15 and approx grade 2-6 on any brass instrument.

Description

Central Park comprises some 26 acres ranging from formal gardens near to the Town Centre, through ornamental areas to informal open space at the southern end towards Princes Road.

The picturesque River Darent runs along the park's eastern boundary.

The formal gardens abut the War Memorial and Library and include summer and winter bedding, herbaceous and shrub beds, together with a carpet bed which depicts the badge of a local organisation in the summer months.

Each summer at least 45,000 plants are used to create stunning colourful bedding displays.

The formal gardens are complimented by a rose garden and pergola, which was installed in 2002 and is quite spectacular when in full bloom.

The park is extremely popular with local children and visitors alike.

Image of riverThe informal areas of the park include large grass areas, junior football pitches, secluded tree shaded walks by the river and is home to the Dartford Harriers running track and pavilion.

Central Park hosts numerous events, particularly in summer, including the popular Dartford Festival in July.

There are public conveniences* and a small car park near the Cranford Road entrance at the southern end of the park (next to Fairfield Pool), and conveniences just outside the park in Market Street.

The park has a large children's playground which has a variety of traditional swings and slides as well as a climbing net, aerial runway, climbing wall, graffiti wall, track for bikes, skate boards etc, and a fully enclosed ball games area, all of which is monitored by CCTV.

The very popular Skatepark is located in Central Park.

The new bandstand has been erected very close to the original site of the first bandstand and will form a vibrant centre-piece for a range of concerts. The stone paving; steps and edges are of Ragstone composite to match the traditional materials of the plinth cladding. Protected by CCTV and other security measures, the bandstand has its own power supply, lighting and a music system for effect when not in use.

Central Park,

Dartford,

Kent,

England,

DA1 1EU.