Mind, body & soul 


Ex-copper whose LIFE IS ALL ABOUT BALANCE


Retired police officer, Dave West, stays out of trouble these days on the golf course or working as a handyman. Here he tries to explain why he’s managed to be flu-free since 1993….


Tell us a little about yourself…


I live between Leeds and Langley villages with my wife Beth, who is 43, and two sons who are aged eight and six.


How are you?


Having recently retired after 40 years with the police, I generally feel very well. I am adjusting to retirement and looking forward to pursuing different interests and, in particular, improving my fitness and golf handicap. I am continuing to work two or three days per week as a handyman around Bearsted and the surrounding area to keep my edge socially and to help local people.


How is your health generally?


I believe my health and fitness is reasonably good for my age. I have just started running again after a long-term injury. I used to run along the North Downs and around the village, which I found very therapeutic and relaxing, particularly during stressful times at work. Since retirement, I am now playing more golf, which I find very sociable as well as challenging.


Have you ever had any major illnesses?


I have been very fortunate to avoid major illnesses in both my childhood and adult life. I have had a few physical injuries during my time, due to the


nature of my work, and playing sports such as football and squash. I am just getting over a recent injury where I fell down the stairs at home and severely ruptured two tendons in my knee (unfortunately, no alcohol was involved to ease the pain!). I found losing the ability to walk and not being mobile for three months quite depressing. Having started exercising again, I now feel very uplifted and much more positive. I believe regular exercise, in any form, is good for your general well-being.


Do you take any medicines?


No, I try to avoid taking medication; I believe this improves my own immune system, particularly against colds and coughs etc (flu-free since ‘93...touch wood).


Have you ever considered herbal remedies?


I am slightly sceptical of herbal remedies and wouldn’t personally use them. I don’t know if they actually do anything or whether people believe in them so much that they feel better regardless.


Ever needed an osteopath or chiropractor?


Many years ago I suffered from severe back pain and was advised by a doctor (who has since retired) to go to bed and rest for a week. This was totally the wrong advice, and after a week the pain


got worse and I could hardly move. I decided then to go to a chiropractor who, after a few sessions and stretching exercises, sorted the whole problem out and I have not had a back problem since.


What exercise do you take, if any?


I enjoy running, particularly around the local Bearsted countryside. I have run marathons and half marathons and aim to do another one, perhaps abroad. Any training partner applicants are welcome. I have recently joined the senior golf section at Tudor Park. The people there are extremely friendly and welcoming, and I am now trying to play at least once a week. I am also looking to take up tennis and hoping to join Bearsted Tennis Club.


What are your vices?


I have been known to enjoy a beer or two. I have been a member of the Bearsted and Thurnham Club on the Green for over 25 years and enjoy visiting the premises on regular occasions… just to make sure everything is in order of course.


What is the best piece of health advice anyone has ever given you?


I believe life is all about balance. A stable diet and regular exercise has always helped me maintain a good general level of fitness and mental well-being.


Would you like to live forever?


No. I could not inflict that on my children or grandchildren.


Mid Kent Living 37


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