August2013

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AUGUST 2013 ISSUE 27

FREE

www.affinitymag.co.uk

August 2013

SUMMER BEAUTY Leather Bracelets from £39.00 Silver and Gold Plated Silver removable elements from £29.00 Create a unique colourful personal piece of jewellery

AFFINITY LUXURY LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

Hair, nails and footwear to dazzle in the sun

All psyched out Psychic Sally returns to Bedford

Body Beautiful

This month’s beauty treatment

AromaWorks

Candles to complement any home

BEAUTY - FOOD - DRINK - HEALTH - FITNESS - STYLE - INTERIORS - MOTORS - WHAT’S ON

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SOLD

IS ONE OF THE SWEETEST WORDS IN THE ENGLISH LANGUAGE

If you have a property to sell contact us now for expert help and advice.

!

DOMBEY COURT, PILGRIM CENTRE, BRICKHILL DRIVE, BEDFORD, MK41 7PZ

01234 268064 www.advancingproperty.co.uk info@AdvancingProperty.co.uk Follow us on COMMITTED TO BEING THE BEST ESTATE AGENCY YOU’LL EVER USE

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LICENSED CAFÉ BAR

LUNCHTIMES

CHOOSE FROM A SELECTION OF OUR TASTY DISHES, FROM LIGHT BITES TO MAIN MEALS. DON'T FORGET TO HAVE A LOOK AT OUR DESSERTS & CREAM TEAS! SERVED BETWEEN 11.30AM & 3.00PM MONDAY TO SATURDAY NUMBER 13 IS OPEN FROM 9.00AM MONDAY TO SATURDAY SERVING FRESHLY GROUND COFFEE, CREAM TEAS, MILKSHAKES, SMOOTHIES CAKES AND PASTRIES. IF YOU DON’T HAVE TIME TO EAT IN, MOST OF OUR MENU CAN BE PREPARED TO TAKEAWAY.

Bedford Corn Exchange & Number 13 13 St. Paul’s Square, Bedford MK40 1SL Phone: (01234) 718044 Email: cornexchange@bedford.gov.uk CORN032_13 de

Web: www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk sign@bedford.gov.uk

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MOGGERHANGER PARK - SIMPLY UNDISCOVERED -

Relax with us in one of our striking bedrooms located within either the Main House or The Groom’s House Annexe. With up to 23 twin or double ensuite bedrooms as well as family rooms, the Old Library sitting room, Cellar Bar and Snug, you and your guests have the freedom to choose where you stay.

Extensive leisure activities nearby include the RSPB, Shuttleworth Park at Old Warden, the Danish Camp at Willington and Woburn Abbey and Safari Park, not to mention some of the best pubs and restaurants in the county.

Located on the A603 just off the A1 at Sandy and 20 minutes from the M1, our elegant Grade 1 House is easily accessible from London, Cambridge, Milton Keynes and London Luton Airport.

enquiries@moggerhangerpark.com 01767 641007

We wish you a delightful stay!

OPENING END OF JULY - SUMMER RATES ON GUEST ACCOMMODATION AVAILABLE -

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Anglia Interiors Trading since 1974 Members of the KBSA

NEW SHERATON SHOWROOM NOW OPEN!

www.anglia-interiors.co.uk WE OPERATE OUR VERY OWN EXCLUSIVE “NEVER UNDERSOLD” POLICY WE WILL NOT BE BEATEN ON A TRUE “LIKE FOR LIKE” PACKAGE A FAMILY COMPANY Installing quality, affordable kitchens, bedrooms and home offices since 1974 Bedford Showroom Anglia House, Wolseley Business Park, 7 Railton Road, Woburn Road Ind Est, Kempston, Bedford MK42 7PN 01234 843000 Huntingdon Showroom: Anglia House, 13 StoneHill, Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire PE29 6ED 01480 398018

OFFERING UNRIVALLED SECURITY FROM DEPOSIT THROUGH TO INSTALLATION www.kbsa.org.uk

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UPLIFTING UPLIFTING EENTERTAINMENT NTERTAINMENT A ATT MKT! MKT! ++++ WHATSONSTAGE

‘I LOVED EVERY MOMENT’ DAILY TELEGRAPH FRI 2 - SUN 4 AUG

WED WE D 7- S SAT AT 10 A AUG UG

0844 0 844 871 871 7652 7652 GROUP G ROUP U SALES SALES 01908 01908 547609 547609 w www.atgtickets.com/miltonkeynes ww.atgtickets.com/miltonkeynes (bkg (bkg fee) fee)

MON 12 - SAT 17 AUG

FFIND IND US US ON ON FFACEBOOK ACEBOOK ‘‘MILTON MILTON KE KEYNES YNES TTHEATRE’ HEATRE’ ((bkg bkg ffee) ee) FOLLOW US FOLLOW US ON ON TTWITTER W IT T E R @MKTHEATRE @ MKTHEATRE

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®

‘2 SU FOR OF MM 1’ CO FER ER BE URSE ON LO S W!

Summer 2013 Goldington Green Academy

BEDFORD

Wootton Lower School

Wootton Bromham Lower School

Bromham Robert Bruce Middle School

Kempston

Football.............Mon 29th July -Fri 2nd Aug Football ...........Mon 12th Aug - Fri 16th Aug Football...........Tues 27th Aug - Fri 30th Aug Football ..................................Mon 2nd Sept Multi-Sports ....Thurs 1st Aug & Fri 2nd Aug Multi-Sports.....Mon 12th Aug & Tues 13th Aug Multi-Sports ...........................Mon 2nd Sept Cheerleading...........................Mon 29thJuly Cheerleading ........................Thurs 29th Aug Dance ....................................Tues 30th July Dance..........Tues 27th Aug & Wed 28th Aug

Gymnastics.............................Wed 14th Aug Cricket....................................Wed 31st July Cricket..........Thurs 15th Aug & Fri 16th Aug Cricket.......................................Fri 30th Aug

St John Rigby Catholic Primary School

Bedford Football ..............................Thurs 25th July Multi-Sports............................Fri 26th July

Football.....................................Fri 26th July Football ................................Thurs 29th Aug Dance........................................Fri 30th Aug

Multi-Sports.........................Thurs 25th July Multi-Sports.....Tues 27th Aug & Wed 28th Aug

Multi- Sports ..........................Wed 21st Aug Multi- Sports ..........................Mon 2nd Sept Cricket....................................Mon 12th Aug Cricket....................................Mon 19th Aug

Football ..................................Tues 13th Aug Football ..................................Tues 20th Aug Football.........Tues 3rd Sept & Wed 4th Sept

Football ........Mon 19th Aug – Wed 21st Aug Multi Sports ...Mon 19th Aug & Tues 20th Aug Cricket ....................................Wed 21st Aug

Camestone Lower School

Football ..................................Mon 22nd July Multi Sports.Tues 23rd July & Wed 24th July

Cranfield CofE Academy

Multi Sports ..Mon 29th July & Tues 30th July

Multi Sports ..........................Thurs 22nd Aug Dance.........................................Fri 23rd Aug

Cranfield Carlton Lower School

Carlton Shelton Lower School

Marston

Multi Sports............................Wed 14th Aug Cricket.........Thurs 22nd Aug & Fri 23rd Aug Multi-Sports .........................Thurs 15th Aug Football .....................................Fri 16th Aug

For Boys & Girls Aged 5-11 9.30 - 3.30pm Daily To book or check for further courses, visit

www.chewitspremiersport.org Online prices from £16.95 per day or Call 01953 499 040 (Telephone bookings subject to extra charge of £3.50 per child)

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Welcome...

Hi everyone Do you go to parties and stand shyly in the corner, or go to work networking events and wish the floor would swallow you up? Well fear no more we show you how to go from scared wallflower to social dynamo in just a few easy steps turn to page 30 to see how to ‘Work that Room!’

If you’ve missed the fantastic historic drama The White Queen on BBC1 and you feel left out when everyone talks about it, fear not we have 5 DVD boxsets to giveaway when it is releasd later this month turn to page 44 to see how to enter.

“Poptails” what are those? I hear you ask, they are ‘adult only’ treats for anyone that loves cocktails and popsicles we show you how to impress your friends at that garden party or BBQ on page 38.

And finally as well as all the regulars we have added our monthly ‘Picks of the Month’ feature - Our pick of the latest gifts, accessories and more, page 28 will show you what you should be buying right now.

Until next month, enjoy the sunshine

Jane x

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Jane Fry Editor jane@affinitymag.co.uk 01234 215523 07809 499669

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Julia Crofts Advertising Manager Julia@affinitymag.co.uk 07966 696784 O1234 215523

Vadisoro Design dave@affinitymag.co.uk 01234 215523 @vadisoro

Cover Image Goa Elisa www.eberjey.com

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All adverts are printed in good faith.

Affinity cannot take responsibility for the content of adverts.

Advertisements are accepted on the understanding that descriptions of goods and services are accurate.

@affinitymagz facebook.com/AffinityMag

Reproduction in whole or in part is strictly prohibited.

linkedin.com/pub/jane-zita-fry

Printed in the UK by Regal Litho 01908 270400 www.regallitho.co.uk

www.affinitymag.co.uk

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Problem packages

I

don’t know if I am alone in finding that all kinds of packages these days seem to require herculean efforts simply to get into them, I suspect not. Recently when I was feeling particularly groggy with a virus, I decided to take some simple pain killers. Unfortunately they were unopened and in a plastic ‘bottle’ rather than a pop out packet. First I had to remove a plastic sealing strip around the top, I breathed a sigh of relief as that bit yielded $ & # "" $ $ without too much trouble but then, of course, I had to & actually gain access to the tablets by lining up some arrows - okay, so I wasn’t wearing glasses and it was fairly dark because the curtains were closed. But really, I was ill! Is that not usually the case when people reach for pills? And yes, I grant you that tablets are dangerous, though it was a very small bottle, but if an adult can’t actually get into them when ill, then what is the point!

After what seemed like an eternity of failed attemps, I threw them, in a fit of frustration, at the bin and sank back into bed deciding the pain was better than the stress.

And, guess what, my aim was brilliant (not) they hit the wall, the top ‘pinged’ off and they spread, confetti like across my bedroom floor. Brilliant!

new one – at least there were new ones, I have done that before then found all the new ones in the ‘toothbrush and other essentials’ drawer had been taken by the kids friends staying over who had forgotten their toothbrush – but isn’t that obviously the first thing you pack ….always.

Anyway I found a nice harmless looking toothbrush, sealed of course but with perforated lines on the back. Of course I get the anarchic toothbrush that was playing truant the day the perforations were actually put into the package, so it was simply lines. After breaking a nail, I decided I needed a weapon so I got nail scissors from the drawer to cut along the ‘none perforated’ lines, confident they would do the trick. But no! I had to add new nail scissors to my mental list (which yes I am bound to forget) of tasks for the next day. Undeterred I made my way downstairs to get the kitchen scissors – no messing with those. But they are in the dishwasher which is mid cycle. I know that in our house there must be at least another five pairs of scissors, but after emptying three drawers, two cupboards, the box where I keep the present wrapping stuff, and disturbing ‘Match of the Day’ on three separate occasions, brushing my teeth didn’t seem that important. My decision possibly being influenced by the glass of wine I had poured from the bottle left on the side, that I had decided not to drink earlier, before I had succumbed to an acute bout of toothbrush opening distress.

But it’s not just tablets that are a challenge. Any screw top jar seems to present a problem, and that is a lot of food stuffs. I am learning to enjoy salads without beetroot, toast without marmalade or jam and writing myself sad little lists to remember to ask someone younger and probably male, to open the various items. A friend recently gave me a tip which was to use a rubber band around the lid and the one time that I could find a rubber band of the right size in the chaos that is my home, it actually worked quite well. I can see that certain foods need to be adequately sealed to maintain freshness, but surely the producers actually want people to eat their goods before the sell by date? I for one now steer away from such products – in fact I have even made my own marmalade which I store in a nice clip spring jar – so $ $ $% ) $ that’s one marmalade buyer gone!! And I challenge % anyone to open a large carton of juice, even with scissors, and follow the perforated lines, then get some in a glass $ without spilling any. In fact this could become a new party $ game!

Oh well, it’s a woman’s prerogative to change her mind I thought as I settled down with wine and my book and made a mental note to book an appointment with my dentist!

The other day I had to take on a toothbrush! Having thrown the sad, curled ones out earlier in the day it wasn’t until I was getting ready for bed that I had to open the 10

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CONTENTS 16 WIN an overnight stay at Champneys 20 Treatment of the Month 28 Hot picks

52 56 62 67 68

Aroma at home All about.....

Mclaren hits the tracks In the shade Paradise at Viceroy

29 Let’s go to the Ball 34 Indulge in afternoon tea 42 Summer at PizzaExpress

47 Lighten up

73 Quiet night in 75 A bit of Vintage Soul

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NAIL the Trends this

AW13 This coming season’s trends were showcased on the catwalks so we thought we’d bring you the colours to match, with Kiss Everlasting Gel Polish!

The brand new Kiss Everlasting Gel Polish home kit will give you a perfect salon style gel manicure and pedicure that lasts up to 2 weeks for a fraction of the price, and in the comfort of your own home. No more sitting around waiting for your nails to dry as Kiss Gels dry instantly and is chip free! Kiss Gels won’t damage your nails either and are easily removable – just soak your nails in the acetone pot remover for 10 minutes and VOILA – no more sitting in front of the TV with your fingers wrapped in foil.

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The great thing about Kiss Everlasting Gel Polish is that you can play around with the colours and it won’t dry until you cure it with the LED lamp, so it gives you plenty of time to get creative.

Why not follow the pastel and neutral trends this AW13 and do a two tone ombre effect? Or paint your nail with a bright pink, cure for 60 seconds, do a layer of black and before curing scrape the black in a pattern so the bright pink comes through – then cure for another 60 seconds - when you’re happy with your design! The ideas are endless.

So make sure you look hot and on trend this season, after all your nails are as much an accessory as your handbags and shoes!

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Summer Health tips for

T

he Pitta dosha governs summer by the fire element.

When this dosha becomes aggravated, we feel angry, irritated, jealous, suffer from skin problems, diarrhoea and acidity. Over time, if left unchecked, this may develop into various inflammatory conditions. But by making small adjustments to our diet and lifestyle, we can enjoy balanced optimal health during the summer months.

Spritz your face regularly with rose water.

Rose is used throughout the Middle East and India, where it is drank, applied to the skin, made into a syrup and added to both sweet and savoury dishes (particularly rice) to help cool the body in the searing heat. The Chinese also love flower teas to help them cope with their very hot humid summer. Chrysanthemum flowers are a favourite and are either added to green or oolong tea or even made into an infusion on their own.

If you can take dairy, drink this at room temperature; heat the milk and let it cool. Add a few drops of rosewater and blanched almonds and drink before bedtime. This classic Ayurvedic recipe is specifically designed to reduce Pitta dosha in the body and increase energy and immunity. It should also give you a sound night’s sleep!

Exercise in the very early morning or late evening when it’s cooler; Pitta people always enjoy the summer evenings Limit very hot, fried, salty, fermented and sour foods, which increase internal heat within the body.

A 10 minute self massage for feet and head with coconut oil will help you sleep well

Have you ever noticed that we shed more hair than usual when we go on holiday to a very hot climate? It is essential to keep your head cool in high temperatures and in Ayurveda, if we get too hot or wash our hair in very hot water, we will suffer hair loss and/or premature greying. Naturally, there are other factors at play, including genetic, hormonal, dietary deficiencies, and stress levels, but keeping our head cool and washing our hair in cool water will definitely help.

I was in Luxor airport when I overheard an Egyptian woman say they soak scarves in water and wear them to keep cool - in the Middle East and Far East they have to cope with temperatures in excess of 40*C.

Include the following herbs in your diet, fennel, coriander (both the leaves and the seeds) and cumin to prevent heartburn and acidity. Peppermint and rose are also lovely additions for tea, or make cocktails of coconut water, mint, cucumber, peas and strawberries, basil, lemon balm. These are all beautifully refreshing during the hottest months.

Enjoy the abundance of sweet juicy fruits which abound at this time of the year – peaches, melons, plums, nectarines and apricots and keep away from sour fruits – except lemon and limes.

Firstly, good hydration is the most important thing to keep us balanced in hot weather. Allow a cup of water for every 20 minutes in the sun. If you exercise or work in the sun, you will need more. It may seem counterintuitive but drink only room temperature or warm water, as ice in drinks will have a very negative impact on your digestive system and metabolism, both in the short and long-term.

These suggestions will all refresh and re-hydrate the body and enable us to enjoy balanced, optimal heath by staying cool during the summer months.

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Carolyn Wood - Herbalist and Naturopath 07944 886502

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C A L C U T TA B R A S S E R I E T H E M U L T I - A WA R D W I N N I N G R E S T A U R A N T The quality Indian cuisine and unique ambience of the Calcutta Brasserie is rrecognised ecognised reflected in the prestigious prestigious awar ds we have won and pr emier service we of fer. and reflected awards premier offer. award winning Calcutta Brasserie is not only the pr emier venue for those rromantic omantic meals The multi – award premier for 2 and family celebrations; we ar are also the first choice when it comes to corporate hospitality, business lunches and Christmas work parties! or mor w.calcutta .calcu brasserie.co.uk ffor e details or call 01908 566577 Please visit www www.calcuttabrasserie.co.uk more ble. today to rreserve eser ve your your ta ttable.

Try T r y our sumptuous Buffet: all day Sunday –

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TTelephone: elephone: 0 01908 1908 5 566577 66577 Web: W eb: w www.calcuttabrasserie.co.uk ww.calcuttabrasserie.co.uk Email: Email: info@calcuttabrasserie.co.uk info@calcuttabrasserie.co.uk www.facebook.com/calcuttabrasserie w ww.facebook.com/calcuttabrasserie

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Voted V oted Chef Chef o off the the year year 2013 2013

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WIN! WIN! WIN! Champneys Springs has just completed the final stage of its £1 million refurbishment and to celebrate are offering one lucky Affinity reader a one night midweek break for themselves and a guest.

The break will include full use of the facilities, all meals and a Facial and Thalassotherapy session each.

To be in with a chance of winning just tell us “Where is Champneys Springs?” and send to info@affinitymag.co.uk. Winners will be drawn after 25th August 2013 *Terms and conditions: Subject to availability, valid at Champneys Springs only, not available on Saturday nights, guests must be 16 years or over, non refundable.

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We are here with a more casual and fun approach to networking Join us on the first Thursday of each month 12.30pm – 2.00pm (5th September) for drinks and a delicious buffet lunch (September’s venue is The Embankment, Bedford) Affinity’s Social Networking’s aim is to bring people and businesses together in a relaxed sociable atmosphere

Come along, meet new faces and enjoy a couple of sociable and productive hours each month £10 per person to include a drink on arrival (red/white wine, lager or soft drinks). Plus a selection of food from our hosts delicious menu

RSVP to book your place - Jane@affinitymag.co.uk 01234 215523 or 07809 499669

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Celebrity Hair Looks With the height of Summer well and truly upon us Garden Parties, Weddings, and Days at the Races are a must in any social calendar.

We asked celebrity hairdresser Asgar to give us some tips on how to wear our hair for the day

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High Voluminous Bun Ensure hair is dry and smooth. Start off by inserting a hair donut after brushing the hair neatly in to a tight pony-tail.

To secure the hair donut in place ensure all bobby pins are fitted securely underneath the hair.

Create sections and tease each section using a teaser comb.

Once this has been completed, wrap the hair around the base of the pony-tail and pin it using bobby pins.

Finally apply hairspray gently all over and neatly insert the tiara or hair jewellery to create a frame for the bun

Side Swept Cascading Waves Ensure hair is washed thoroughly and conditioned.

Make sure the curling irons have been heated.

Apply some hair serum/styling product when the hair is damp.

Create the desired side parting using a pin-tail comb.

Section your hair beginning from the back of the head and blow dry the hair firmly using a large barrel brush.

Take each section of the hair and roll it around the hair iron swiftly. Repeat this method till the entire head has been completed.

Use a large brush to gently brush through the curls to give you soft, subtle waves.

Apply some hair spray all over for a smoother finish.

Asgar has worked his magic on A-list celebrities, including the likes of Twiggy, Cindy Crawford, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Hrithik Roshan.

Asgar has also styled the hair for the X-factor, Britain’s next top model and Dancing on Ice as well as having styled for the covers of Harpers Bazaar, The Observer and The Times to name but a few.

Celebrity Hair Stylist, Asgar (www.asgarboo.co.uk) 19

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Treatment of the Month The ESPA Lifestage Facial Following the launch of their pioneering LIFESTAGE Skincare Range, ESPA have now launched the ESPA LIFESTAGE Facial exclusive to 5th Avenue Hair and Beauty Spa in Bedford.

A

highly effective age defying treatment that delivers immediate visible results, helping to reduce the first signs of ageing. This treatment uses ESPA’s new LIFESTAGE range – Serum, Moisturiser and Eye Moisturiser – which harness the latest skincare technology.

The LIFESTAGE Facial begins with a thorough skin analysis followed by a cleanse and exfoliation using agedefying massage techniques. A mask is then applied, which helps to stimulate elasticity. Whilst you relax with the mask on a scalp massage is carried out, leaving you feeling calm and peaceful.

Ideal for those aged 45+, the treatment targets the most visible signs of ageing by firming sagging skin, stimulating elasticity, smoothing lines and wrinkles, promoting radiance in dull, sallow skin, evening skin tone, reducing age spots and pigmentation, addressing dehydrated skin and minimising large pores whilst helping to reduce redness. Each product uses Natural Encapsulation Technology, together with a unique blend of 10 pure and concentrated actives, which are stage released into the epidermis for up to 8 hours to achieve their ultimate performance potential.

Once the mask is removed, moisturiser and eye cream are massaged into the skin leaving it feeling revitalized and radiant.

Some facials need a few hours or more before you start to see the effects but not this one - your skin is radiant and glowing straight away.

An absolute treat and highly recommended.

5th Avenue Hair and Beauty Spa 01234 341377 www.5thavenuespa.co.uk

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Herbalist (Dip Herb) Naturopath (Dip ND) MAMH, MANP, ITEC

As a herbalist and naturopath I can help you with

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CAST IRON CATERING Est. 1998

By combining cordon bleu training with her large cast iron pans, Julie produces food that is both different and delicious – often described as "the best party food ever" The extensive choice of menus, including French, Indian, Thai, Chinese, Malaysian and Moroccan dishes, are all cooked in the magnificent pans in front of your guests Pricing has been structured to supply delicious food to suit most budgets and events from informal parties to wedding banquets For more information contact Julie on:

01234 344 407 07736 407 087 info@castironcatering.co.uk - www.castironcatering.net

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What to do when

INjury STrIkeS!

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U

nfortunately one of the downsides to being a frequent exerciser is that you do get injuries. Sometimes they go as quickly as they appeared but there comes a time when treatment is required. An injury is a nightmare for most keen exercisers as it puts them out of action for a prolonged period of time, which means they lose their hard earned stamina, strength and physical appearance/tone and shape, so the key is to keep injuries to a minimum. There are a number of things you can do to avoid getting serious injuries in the first place, so let’s start with those…………….

What happens if you are already injured? Who should you see to help you? There are lots of different services available to help you, the NHS being one. We are so lucky in this country to have the NHS, however, when it comes to sports injuries we tend to want to be fixed NOW and due to financial constraint on the NHS this isn’t always possible. You will often have to wait for weeks before you can see a specialist so the options I am outlining here are paid for privately - that’s not to say the NHS can’t help you but for speed of injury treatment these are what I would suggest.

Physiotherapy A physiotherapist will have spent at least 3 years, normally 4 years studying the human body and it’s functions. They know joint movements, muscle actions and how to treat injuries like second nature. So a good physiotherapist is worth his/her weight in gold. We are lucky in Bedford to have a number of excellent physios.

A physio uses a mixture of hands on palpation, massage and most importantly exercises to strength muscle imbalances that caused the injury in the first place and will help prevent it from happening again.

Correct muscle imbalances If you have a muscle imbalance then when you exercise an abnormal load will be placed on certain muscles which aren’t designed to take that load. For example, if you are a runner and have weak glutes (bottom muscles) then your knees will not align correctly (knocked knees) and your load transfer will be affected which in turn can cause foot, ankle, knee, hip or lower back pain. So take time to correct these imbalances.

Seek the help of a physiotherapist who can outline what is weak and how it can be strengthened

Chiropractor or Osteopath Most people associate these professions with clicking the spine ‘back into place’. A chiropractor and an osteopath spend 4-5 years training and cover the same anatomy, physiology and pathology as a General Practitioner. Chiropractors adjust the spine, not only to benefit the physical posture of a person but also because they view the spine as being the organising focal point of the persons health. An Osteopath focuses on all boney joints and junctions in order to align the physical structure of a person for optimal health. If you are put off by the clicking and crunching sounds then I can recommend the McTimoney approach. This is a much more subtle way of manipulating the body.

Warm up before you exercise This sounds obvious right? Yes, but not many people actually do this! Before any kind of exercise regardless of how gentle it is, you should always do some ‘warming up’ exercises. Imagine your muscles are a little bit like bluetac, if you pull it or overstretch it when it is cold it snaps but if you warm it up first it is a lot more elastic and doesn’t snap. I frequently see runners doing 2 or 3 static stretches (normally quads, hamstrings and calf stretches) before they go out for a run then wonder why they are injured all the time. An ideal warm up for a runner would be to go for a short easy jog then stop and do some dynamic stretches that loosen up the hip flexors, calves, quads and hamstrings.

Sports Massage Therapist Sports massage therapy can be used for injury treatment and preventative measures, so having a good sports therapist is a must if you are a frequent exerciser!

A sports massage can increase blood supply to an area delivering vital nutrients towards muscles and removing toxins from within them. Sports massage can also increase flexibility by manually breaking down scar tissue. It can also aid with improving muscle imbalances as mentioned previously.

Invest in a foam roller A foam roller is a 1-2 feet long roller made out of hard cell foam that is used to perform self-myofacial release’ (self massage). They are very simple to use and can help reduce muscle adhesions (knots) and help recover tired muscles. Wherever possible you should try and see a sports massage therapist or manual therapist, but this can become expensive so you could say using a foam roller is a poor mans massage! When foam rolling you simply use your body weight against the roller to massage your muscle and fascia (the sheath that surrounds your muscle), this in turn creates a reaction with your Golgi Tendon Organ (GTO) which helps trigger the relaxation of the muscle spindles helping to dissipate the adhesions, increase blood flow and enhance overall movement.

Julie Holl

Good luck on your path to be injury free. Look after your body - it’s the only one you’re going to get!

For more help or information on bone, joint and muscle health please feel free to get in touch at jules@hollgroup.com

Personal Trainer 23

www.hollfitness.co.uk

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Turnzstyle is located within

Conveniently located at Fitness First, close to the centre of Bedford, and with free parking, we offer you the unique opportunity to "leave the gym looking like you walked out of a salon."

Experienced stylist, Michelle Waters, provides all aspects of hairdressing including: - Cutting, - Blow-drying, - Tinting, - Hi-lighting, - Setting, - Perming - Hair up designs to suit all occasions.

Fitness F irst Member s 10% Dis count 01234 347821 07703 810450 info@turnzstyle.co.uk www.turnzstyle.co.uk

Turnzstyle Unisex Salon

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday

11:00 - 21:00 09:00 - 18:00 09:00 - 18:00 08:00 - 20:00 10:00 - 19:00 09:00 - 16:00 closed all day @Turnzstyle

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W E D G E S

Beige Wedge Debenhams Beige Wedge £45 Dorothy Perkins

Coloured Wedges Debenhams Ankle Gladiator Wedge £18 Matalan George at Asda

Black Sand £145 Dune Galactic Wedge £75 Bertie

Flower Wedges Asos Panama Wedge £45 Monsoon

Nude Wedges £45 Marks & Spencer

Floral Wedge £16 Matalan

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S A N D A L S

Ava Sandal £159 Hobbs

Commodore Leather Tan Sandal £58 Miss Selfridge

Debenhams

Cork Stud Sandal £25 Marks & Spencer Black Sand £135 Dune

Frentic £75 Bertie

Contrast Strappy Heel £12 Primark

Debenhams

Well Jel £135 Dune

Wava Sandal £70 Debenhams

Sandals £45 Dorothy Perkins

River Island

T Bar Heels £32 Bank Fashion Tan Sandals Debenhams

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F L A T F L O P

£45 Debenhams

Blue Flower Flip Flops River Island

Beaded Leather Sandal £12 Primark

Bumblebee Jelly Sandal £5 Primark

Debenhams.

Franz Pink Strappy Flat Sandal £25 John Lewis Gold Sandal Internacionale

Debenhams

Nude Embellished Sandal £49 Miss Selfridge

Rose Gold Sandal £16.99 Internacionale Nude Diamante T-Bar Jellies £6 internacionale

Debenhams

Sandals £20 Bank Fashion

Tan Sandal £14.99 Internacionale

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VIP Champagne Cork Cooler £45 www.xlcork.com

Time To Drink Champagne A3 Framed Print £24.99 www.mollieandfred.co.uk

Hotel Chocolat Summer Collection £35 www.hotelchocolat.com

Ready made Gin Cocktails by Greenall’s Gin £1.85 All major supermarkets

Gatsby Inspired Ring £33.99 www.thejewellerychannel.tv

Lily Charmed Necklace £35 www.lilycharmed.com

AFFINITY HOT PICKS Linea Embroidered Bird Cushion £25 House of Fraser

This month’s must have gifts and accessories

Oilily Maxi Flowers Handbag £75 www.oililyshop.com

Jo Malone Orange Blossom Cologne £78 for 100ml www.jomalone.co.uk

Princess Sparkle Bling Leather Sandal £35 Accessorize

Eclectic Short Playsuit £61 www.princessetamtam.co.uk

Soft Cashmere Teddy Bears £95 www.scarletandargent.co.uk

Plump and Shine Lip Gloss and Volumiser £19.95 www.eternalcosmeceuticals.com

Elemis Eye & Lip Make up Remover £19 www.timetospa.co.uk

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Charity Ball Diamond & Pearl

In aid of Keech Hospice Care and in memory of Pat McGirl Friday 15th November 2013 Arrival 7.00pm - Carriages 1.00am The Sharnbrook Hotel A/6 Park Lane, Sharnbrook, Beds Mk44 1LX

A Glittering Drinks & Canapé reception A Sumptious Three Course Meal raffle , exclusive Auctions and much more....

Tickets £50 per person

Book early to avoid disappointment For tickets and sponsorship enquiries please contact: jane Fry - 01234 215523 - 07809 499669 jane@affinitymag.co.uk

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Nervous Networker to Social Dynamo 30

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W

hen most people think about networking it seems insincere at best — and selfish at worst. This, of course, is the complete opposite of what networking is supposed to be — friendly, useful, and genuine.

Work Think networking is all about formal events? Broaden your definition and you’ll find lots of chances to turn potentially painful encounters into opportunities – such as when you bump into the MD in the canteen or at the gym – always have at least three conversation starters ready, ranging from a current TV show to an article you’ve recently read. If you do attend a networking group prepare conversation starters beforehand and, if you leave with business cards or Twitter details make sure you follow them up - put aside 30 minutes the next day to write a ‘lovely to meet you’ note, going on to highlight something from your conversation with that person.

Networking is a time-honored tradition that most people apply every day without knowing it. View it as making contacts, creating relationships, finding out about essentials, even making friends. Networking is based on the premise that we're all humans and need each other.

This is true as in all areas of our life.

Unfortunately, most networking strategies come across as pushy, needy, or self-serving - even though the people using them rarely act that way in day-to-day life.

We’ve all been there, it’s that sinking feeling you get when you walk into a buzzing, crowded room and you want to run a mile. Apparently research shows we would rather play with our phone than chat to a stranger – if you’re the type to keep their head down and hope no one talks to you read on.

The School Gates According to a recent study by netmums almost three quarters of women find the school gates cliquey, but it is well worth persevering as 1 in 20 met their best friends there. If you’re feeling shy pretend you’re in a work environment and approach other mums just as you would a professional engagement – introduce yourself and say who you’re mother to, you’ll be amazed at how easily the conversation will flow. The best thing is to be super helpful, organise a weekly get together after school at the local park, join the PTA or even become a school governor.

“The idea of networking makes many people uncomfortable … or confused. It’s easy to see why.”

Networking isn’t just about work - you’re networking in general life all the time, when you chat to another mum at the school gates or make small talk at a party, even everytime you retweet – it’s based on building a network of people who’ll give support when you need it and vice versa. The surprising secret - good networkers DON’T big themselves up, but help others first and we can all do that can’t we? So here’s how to shake the shyness once and for all and get ahead in the process.

Online The quickest way to damage your online networking is moaning! No one goes on to social media to listen to that.

Popular tweeters share links, so focus on finding interesting articles to tweet this way you’ll make an impression. And if you’re still hiding away from Linkedin don’t - bite the bullet as apparently approximately 86% of those that have signed up for it find it useful. Make sure you take it the next step and once you’ve built up regular interaction with someone online make a date to meet face to face.

Parties If you talk to someone about themselves they’ll listen for hours. In other words to be interesting is to show interest in someone else first. Be enthralled by what people do for a living and how they’ve got to where they are today.

Begin with the obvious, ask how they know the host, or compliment their dress or shoes; a party can be an opportunity to make connections but do it subtly. Parties are NOT the place to pitch, if you meet someone who you feel could be helpful to you ask if you can meet at a later date for a coffee – the key is to not appear pushy.

Soon you’ll transform yourself from nervous networker to social dynamo, all it takes is that first baby step!

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Bedford GeTS “PSyCHeD” Sally Morgan is an ordinary woman with an extraordinary gift. As the author of three best-selling books and the star of many TV series and documentaries, she is one of the most recognised and best loved psychics in the UK today.

S

ally’s live theatre shows have been selling out nationwide following the success of her Sky LIVING TV series Psychic Sally: On The Road, which followed Sally’s gruelling tour schedule showcasing her phenomenal ability to speak with people beyond the grave. Next month, due to popular demand, Sally will be bringing her incredible gift back to Bedford when she plays the Bedford Corn Exchange on Wednesday 4th September.

Since she started touring in 2008, thousands of people have witnessed Sally in action. Her vibrant personality and straight talking nature has attracted a whole new audience to the spiritual world; often people leave the theatre astounded at her ability to deliver messages with astounding accuracy. She has become such a nationwide phenomenon that she has even outsold A-list artists including Paul McCartney and Rihanna!

Sally has had paranormal experiences since she was a young girl, sighting her first ghost at just age 4. But it wasn’t until her late teens that she really understood how unique this gift was and so, in her early thirties, she set

up her own psychic practice and became a professional medium. Her client list grew organically from intrigued members of the public to politicians, celebrities and Royalty; it is well known that Sally read for Princess Diana for over four years. In more recent years she has been linked to stars such as George Michael, Katie Price and I’m a Celebrity’s Helen Flanagan.

Sally’s live shows are an ideal way to witness mediumship in its rawest form. This is Sally on her own without any TV crew or flashy gimmicks. Instead you will see how these incredible messages with the spirit world build from beginning to end. Each show is completely unpredictable, and with the highly charged atmosphere, the emotional messages come thick and fast. For people who have never been to a live psychic performance before, they are in for a dramatic and hopefully lifeaffirming evening. Simply sit back, be open-minded and make sure you come forward if you think there is a message for you.

Get your tickets now; as they say…….…”Seeing is Believing!”

To book tickets for Sally’s show: 01234 718044 www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk

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COMEDY at Bedford Corn Exchange…

Lee Nelson

Russell Kane

Jason Manford

Wednesday 6 November 2013

Saturday 22 February 2014

Tuesday 18 & Wednesday 19 March 2014

To book tickets call 01234 718044 or visit www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk Bedford Corn Exchange & Number 13 13 St. Paul’s Square, Bedford MK40 1SL Phone: (01234) 718044 Email: cornexchange@bedford.gov.uk

Web: www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk

13 mber

Nu

LICENSED CAFÉ BAR

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A Great British Tradition A

fternoon tea is a wonderful British tradition which I've been lucky enough to enjoy at many venues including, The Ritz and The Dorchester (I like to pretend I’m Posh!) so when I went along to sample the delights of an afternoon tea at Moggerhanger Park they had a lot to live up to………..

Whether you’re ladies who like to lunch, planning a family get together or a cosy two-some, Moggerhanger Park is an idyllic location. The peaceful landscape and quintessentially English exteriors combine to create the perfect afternoon tea setting.

people for afternoon tea). If you want to you can combine it with a tour of the house at the same time.

We arrived at this historic house and were escorted to our very own room where the table was set for tea for two, I felt just like Lady of the Manor in her own private drawing room, and was certainly treated like royalty; service was attentive but not intrusive.

There is so much to be discovered at Moggerhanger Park with its unique history and inspiring architecture, why not experience it whilst enjoying this wonderful afternoon tea.

The cost is very reasonable at £18 per person with an extra £4 if you want a glass of prosecco included.

From the glass of prosecco (of course you know me it would be rude not to!) to the selection of speciality teas through to the assortment of freshly made sandwiches, which included smoked salmon and ricotta cheese, honey roast ham with English mustard, pastrami with creamed horseradish and rocket, egg mayonnaise with pea shoots and coronation chicken with tomato and rocket - this was an afternoon tea that was already going beyond expectations.

It seemed a shame to disassemble the tea stand with it’s selection of homemade cakes including carrot, chocolate, lemon and Victoria sponge, all presented with fresh flowers from the garden. The icing on the cake, so to speak, being the chef’s pride and joy, scones – what can I say, how do you rave about a scone, but I am – they are truly the best I have ever tasted, and add to that the traditional jam and cream and they were a sure winner.

There’s a lot to be said about the whole experience of afternoon tea where the setting is perfect, the tea delicious and you are made to feel special. Moggerhanger Park have it just right; this being by far the best afternoon tea I have experienced.

01767 641007 www.moggerhangerpark.com

Afternoon tea needs to be pre-booked, whether it is for 2 people or 30 people (they can cater for parties of 40 34

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25th July - 5th September • Indoor, Outdoor Playground!

• Fire Engine, Tractor & Pony Rides • Bungee, Trampolines & Quad Bikes • Animal Feeding • Sand Pits • Cafe

Plus Weekday Programme (Mon - Fri) 29th July 5th August 12th August 19th August 26th August 2nd Sept

Kids Olympics Rockets in Space Pirate Mania Dinosaurs & Fossils Princes & Princesses Equestrian Antics

£9.50 Children £7.50 Under 4’s £7.00 Adults

.((3 ,1 728&+

For more information:

3

Call us: 01234 771597 Visit our website: www.thurleighfarmcentre.co.uk

The Red Pepper Catering Consultant was conceived in 2003, my own catering business and a dream come true!

With Red Pepper I have built up an excellent reputation and my passion for Food and using fresh seasonal ingredients is always at the forefront of any dish I am cooking Whether you’re looking to cater for a private dinner party, birthday, funeral, christening, wedding or just looking to have a fun evening in with some friends then contact us

I look forward to hearing from you as I would love to meet with you and discuss and personalise your occasion - I have drive and passion for my services as well as the food I cook - You don’t have to go to a restaurant to eat exquisite food

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Calcutta A taste of

They’ve done it again Calcutta Brassiere’s success has been recognised for yet another accolade, this time The Indian restaurant in Stony Stratford has been award a BIBA (Best in Britain Award) by Mood Food Magazine/Federation of Specialist Restaurants and is one of just 50 in Britain to be honoured.

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W

ith all these awards and rave reviews we thought we ought to go and see for ourselves what all the fuss was about.

Elegant and romantic, Calcutta Brassiere Indian Restaurant is set within a beautiful 17th Century Grade II Listed Chapel that creates one of the most unique and inspiring dining experiences imaginable.

We were given a wonderfully warm welcome and attentive service by Mo and his team, who proceeded to make sure we had everything we needed whilst we beowse the menu which was full of delicious dishes cooked by chefs from India, thus creating dishes unique to different regions that were different than you would normally find on an Indian menu.

We contemplated the delightful looking dishes on the menu over appetisers of scrumptious poppadums and condiments and struggled to decide what to choose from the vast selection of dishes. In the end I played it safe (I’m not good with anything too spicy) and had grilled chicken salad (strips of chicken breast on a bed of mixed salad leaves, tomatoes and tamarind mayonnaise dressing) this was a superb choice, the chicken was tender and the flavours of the tamarind mayonnaise perfect for my palate. My husband’s choice goan crab cakes spiced with roasted goan spices, infused with different flavours, certainly packed a kick in the spice department.

Main courses were of an equally high standard and just as tasty. I decided to go for chicken mango korma; the chicken was so tender, portion size generous and the fruity sauce complemented the chicken superbly this dish was distinctive. Shahi gosht korma (fillet of lamb marinated with yoghurt and green cardamom roasted in the oven and cooked in a smooth caramelised onion with badaam paste) was David’s choice, the lamb was pure perfection, a dish that was truly different as well as tasty. Our mains were accompanied by Dal of the day (a speciality Indian dish made with lentils), mushroom bombo, vegetable fried rice, lemon rice and a bread basket selection consisting of garlic naan, tandoori roti and pashwari naan. The verdict – another perfect combination of flavours and beautifully presented dishes Dessert for me was fresh Mango Brule, this was creamy and fruity creating delicious flavours for my taste buds to enjoy. Gulab jamun with chilled cardamon scented custard was the other choice and my husband said it was heavenly and unlike other sweet dishes.

The whole dining experience was unique and memorable, you definitely need to pay Calcutta Brassiere a visit; the food is mouth wateringly different and will not disappoint and you can certainly see why they have won so many awards.

Calcutta Brassiere Stony Stratford MK11 1LJ 01908 566577 www.calcuttabrasserie.co.uk

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Poptails

“Poptails (a cocktail popsicle) are sweeping the nation and are guaranteed to impress and delight your guests at any summer gathering�

Strawberry Cosmopolitan Ingredients 50g caster sugar 200g quartered strawberries 2 tbsp Cointreau 2 tbsp vodka 125ml soda water

Recipe The strawberries are crushed rather than blended, which gives the popsicle a very satisfying texture – just delicious.

Place the sugar and 125ml water in a sucepan and slowly bring to boil, allowing the sugar todissolve. Simmer for 5 minutes then remove from heat.

Add the strawberries to the pan. Squash them into the syrup using the back of a fork or a pestle, but allowing some texture to remain. Pour in the remaining ingredients and divide the mixture amongst four lolly moulds.

Place the molds in the freezer. Let set for 2 hours, insert the lolly sticks. And allow to freeze until completely solid then divide into cocktail glasses and make make into slush

Gin Zing Ingredients 375g chopped cucumber 250ml elderflower cordial 120ml gin

Recipe An all time favourite combination for a summer cocktail has to be gin and elderflower. Add cucumber to the mix and it zings with freshness.

Place the cucumber elderflower cordial in a food processor or blender and blitz until smooth Pass the mixture through a fine strainer into a bowl and stir half of the pulp in the sieve back into the cucumber and elderflower juice. Mix in the gin until well combined, then pour into lolly moulds Place the molds in the freezer. Let set for 3 hours, give it a good stir, insert the lolly sticks, and allow to freeze until solid (about 4 more hours) or leave overnight.

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Passion Fruit Margarita Ingredients 125g caster sugar grated zest of one lime 125ml passion fruit pulp (about 6 passion fruit) 75ml lime juice 2 tbsp tequilla 1 tbsp cointreau

Recipe Place the sugar and lime zest in a small saucepan with 250ml water and slowly bring to boil, allowing the sugar to dissolve. Simmer for 5 minutes then remove from heat.

Stir in the remaining ingredients and pour into four lolly moulds.

Place the moulds in the freezer for approx 3 hours, then give each one a gentle stir to distribute the passion fruit seeds and then insert the lolly sticks. Return to the freezer for an additional 3 hours until frozen solid.

Pineapple Mojito Ingredients 50g caster sugar 2 cups chopped pineapple 4 tablespoons lime juice 4 tablespoons rum ¼ cup mint leaves

Recipe Place the sugar and 120ml water in a saucepan and slowly bring to the boil, allowing the sugar to dissolve. Simmer for 5 minutes then remove from heat.

Place the chopped pineapple in a food processor or blender and mix until completely smooth. Add the sugar syrup, lime juice and rum and mix until well combined.

Coarsley chop any larger mint leaves, but leave the smaller ones intact. Stir the mint through the pineapple mix and pour into four ice lolly molds.

English Summer Cup Ingredients

Place the molds in the freeer. Let them set for 2 hours, insert the lolly sticks and allow to freeze until completely solid (about 4 hours)

50g caster sugar 4 tbsp Pimms 250ml ginger beer (or lemonade) 150g sliced strawberries 50g sliced apples 18 small mint leaves

Recipe Place the sugar and 125ml water in a small saucepan, slowly bring to boil, allowing the sugar to dissolve. Simmer for 5 minutes then remove from heat.

Add the Pimm’s and ginger beer or lemonade. Leave to cool completely.

Divide the strawberries, apple slices and mint leaves among six lolly molds. Pour over the Pimm’s mixture and insert the lolly sticks.

Place the molds in the freezer for 6 hours, until frozen solid.

*For more alcohol-infused popsicles, ices and slushes check out the book “Poptails”

by Laura Fyfe £8.99

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Black forest trifle with kirsh cherries Ingredients

Method

2 tbsp caster sugar ½ tsp vanilla essence 350g Black Cherries soaked with Kirsch 250g Chocolate brownies 75g Dark Chocolate 500g Fresh Vanilla Custard 250g Mascarpone 285ml whipping cream

Drain the cherries in a sieve over a bowl, reserving the kirsch.

Arrange half of the chocolate brownie pieces in the base and around the sides of a large trifle dish or alternatively between 8 wine/martini glasses Spoon 6 tablespoons of the reserved kirsch over the top. Scatter over half of the cherries.

Break 50g of the chocolate into small pieces and place in a bowl over a pan of simmering water (do not allow the water to touch the bowl). When the chocolate has melted, remove from the heat and stir in the custard.

In a separate bowl, whip the mascarpone and cream with the sugar and vanilla until smooth and slightly thickened, then spoon half the mixture over the cherries.

Add the remaining brownie, spoon over 3 more tablespoons of the kirsch and top with the remaining cherries.

This sweet is brought to you by the Chef at The Millhouse Hotel Riverside Restaurant, Sharnbrook, Beds

Spoon the chocolate custard over and finish with the remaining cream mixture. Using a grater, grate the rest of the chocolate over the top of the trifle and top with toasted almonds. Chill until ready to serve.

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Media Telesales Executive Required We are seeking a highly motivated sales person to join our expanding team here at Affinity and be part of this luxury lifestyle brand.

You will be required to sell advertising space within our magazines.

Sales experience would be preferred although applications from confident, outgoing individuals who are well organised, professional and driven to achieve targets are welcome.

The vacancy is on a self employed, commission only basis with great earning potential for the right applicant, hours are negotiable on a part or full time basis.

So if you are someone who is hungry and can achieve targets, then we want to hear from you.

Please Contact: Jane Fry (Editor) jane@affinitymag.co.uk

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s s e r p x E a z Piz t

a r e m m u s r u o y Love

S

chool holidays are upon us and the dreaded words “I’m bored” ring out in parent’s ears everywhere. My children are all older so the bored word doesn’t get uttered too much to me; in fact I am relegated to resident taxi or permanent loan company instead. So occasionally so I can actually spend some time with my wonderful offspring once in a while we have a family meal out, and when I saw that PizzaExpress had been refurbished I decided what better place to take the tribe to and check it out.

The space has been made light and airy with light colours and an open plan layout a glass roof and a delightful outside area all add to the new look.

We arrived on a lovely summers evening and were greeted by Taner Ozdol the wonderful friendly manager, who cannot sing the praises of the refurbishment strongly enough he told us “The restaurant has undergone a lovely transformation. Customers will notice quite a difference, with the environment being much more welcoming and brighter.”

When we arrived the place was already buzzing and once we were all seated we began to decide what delights we would have off the menu – we decided to have a few starters to share including PizzaExpress famous dough balls, roasted tomatoes, garlic bread with mozzarella, meatbaslls, marcona almonds and brushetta with mushrooms. A good choice as there was something that suited everyone’[s tastes, the meatball came with a

sauce that was slightly spiced giving a surprising kick on the tastebuds and the Brushetta with mushrooms was mouthwatering delicious and highly recommended.

Our Mains was a mixture of pizzas and salads with myself and my son opting for the salads and my husband, daughter and stepson deciding on traditional pizza. All the dishes were faultless and the clean plates from everyone proved that.

Why do kids always find room for dessert – well with the mouthwatering dessert menu it was difficult not to indulge. Banoffee pie and toffee fudge glory were the choices and what good choices they were!

At PizzaExpress all their dishes are fresh and made to order using the freshest finest ingredients and with the open plan kitchen if you want to watch your food being prepared you can.

We had a fabulous evening; food was delicious, service impeccable and the atmosphere buzzing.

So whether it’s a family meal like us, a get together with family or friends or just the two of you pay the new look PizzaExpress a visit, you’ll be glad you did!

PizzaExpress 22 St Peters Street Bedford 01234 271124 www.pizzaexpress.com

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WIN! WIN! WIN! The BBC’s highly acclaimed BBC drama of the year THE WHITE QUEEN is released on DVD and Blu-ray on 19th August and here at Affinity we have FIVE copies to giveaway.

T

he White Queen is a riveting portrayal of one of the most dramatic and turbulent times in English history. A story of love and lust, seduction and deception, betrayal and murder, it is uniquely told through the perspective of three different, yet equally relentless women - Elizabeth Woodville, Margaret Beaufort and Anne Neville.

In their quest for power, they will scheme, manipulate and seduce their way onto the English throne.

The year is 1464, before the Tudor dynasty ruled the country, and war has been ravaging throughout England over who is the rightful King.

It is a bitter dispute between two sides of the same family, The House of York and The House of Lancaster.

The House of York's young and handsome Edward IV is crowned King of England with the help of the master manipulator, Lord Warwick "The Kingmaker." But when Edward falls in love with a beautiful Lancastrian commoner, Elizabeth Woodville, Warwick's plan to control the throne comes crashing down.

and Controller of BBC Drama BEN STEPHENSON said: “One of the most ambitious series the BBC has made, this 10 part series is an epic drama that makes real history as gripping as the best fiction, featuring a cast of extraordinary new talent and some of our finest actors.“

A violent, high-stakes struggle ensues between Elizabeth, her most fierce adversary, Lancastrian Margaret Beaufort, and Anne Neville, the pawn in her father's power game each woman vying for the crown.

There is a huge all-star cast including Max Irons, Janet McTeer, Amanda Hale, James Frain, Rebecca Ferguson as The White Queen along with serious young rising stars.

It is set to be the largest BBC drama production to date

If this doesn’t have you gripped I don’t know what will!!!

To be in with a chance of winning one of these copies tell us “ What actress plays the White Queen?” and send your answer to info@affinitymag.co.uk by 25th August – Good Luck!

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Furnishers For people who love choice, quailty and value

CLEA RA ON N NCE OW! To ma ke wa y fo rriving r new soon!

lines a

Furniture made to your specifications in Oak and Pine and also a choice of Waxed Finishes.

Also available painted finishes from FARROW and BALL. You supply a drawing to Carlo and he will ensure your piece of furniture is created with care and attention. www.carlofurnishers.com 127 Barkers Lane Bedford MK41 9RT Like us on Facebook 01234 355525

Visit our showroom at Google Maps

Monday - Saturday: 9.30am - 5.00pm Sunday: 11am - 4pm

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Lighten Up

Matalan

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Gemma Outdoor Tea Light Assorted Colours £3 Each John Lewis

Star Hanging Lanterns £2.65 redlilly.co.uk

Large Lantern £45 Marks & Spencer

Oriental Lanterns £9.95 redlilly.co.uk

Summer Lantern £26 and £18 Debenhams Metal Hurricane Lantern From £32.95 tellingtales.co.uk

Spiro Lantern £25 John Lewis

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Woodern And Glass Latern £29.99 homesense.com

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Ainslie Lantern £30 John Lewis

Athena Garden Torch £39.99 poshgardenfurniture.co.uk

Debenhams Filigree Moroccan Lantern £22 puji.com

Tealight Holder Marks & Spencer Hurricane £19.50 Mark & Spencer

Classic Coach Lantern £90 lilyandlime.co.uk Hurricane Candle Holder £22 puji.com Manilla Garden Lantern £39.99 poshgardenfurniture.co.uk

Decorative Grey Lantern £18 yonderliving.co.uk

Agra Lamp £60 Next

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Affinity gardening

August Tips... ⧫ Keep dead heading and watering hanging baskets and containers.

Adding feed once a week will extend the flowering season and produce better plants ⧫ Cut back the foliage from hardy geraniums once they have finished flowering, as this should give a second flush of flowers later. ⧫ Dead head border plants such as roses, penstemons and bedding to extend their flowering into the autumn ⧫ Give hedges their final trim of the year ⧫ Top up water features and ponds and aerate the water during very hot weather ⧫ Mow lightly and frequently and leave the clippings on the lawn to act as a mulch in hot weather. Do not feed grass at this time of year ⧫ Weed with regular hoeing of annual weeds but use a glyphosate based weedkiller for perennial weeds to kill the roots and leaves

Globe thistle

Flower of the Month Globe thistle This upright, compact shrub features spikey, spherical blue flowerheads which appear grey-blue then mature to a brighter indigo blue.

These glorious late summer flowers add form and texture to a mixed cottage garden border. The Flowerheads attract bees and make great cut and dried-flowers arrangements. They are hardy and do well in full sun/partial shade and have even been given an Award of Garden Merit (AGM), which is for plants of outstanding excellence.

Affinity Loves....

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These will be printed in full colour (using state-of-the-art technology) on to a hard wearing polyester and cotton mixture canvas. Personalise with a photo memory or simply a piece of your own artwork and head to the beach with your super-cool deckchair. £120.00 www.prezzybox.com

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Aromatherapy and the Soothing Scents of Wellness

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e have found the most amazing range of luxurious scented candles, reed diffusers, room mists and oils. They are made with the finest 100% organic ingredients including soy and beeswax and packed with organic essential oils. The quality of the essential oils in each candle is exquisite and creates the perfect calming, relaxing atmosphere around your home whilst helping to invigorate tired minds and delight your senses.

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Affinity master August 2013 quark 15_Layout 1 copy 18/07/2013 05:40 Page 53

MEN - WE NEED YOU! Every year over 43,000 men, some as young as 15, will be diagnosed with a male specific cancer, so help us raise funds and awareness in the fight against these diseases. We have a golf day and a walk/pub crawl for men in pants!!

You can wear them over your trousers, or wear fancy dress or just your normal clothes, as it is the taking part that counts!

Golf in your Pants! - August 17th This is to raise funds for Orchid Cancer (male specific cancers) and Target Cancer (ovarian cancers) - all 'below the belt' cancers. It will be held at Colmworth Golf Club with a 9.30am shotgun start and there will be fun mini comps and food for the rest of the family too. Entry is ÂŁ25 per golfer to include food.

Parade in your Pants! - September 15th This is a male only walk/pub crawl around Kempston in your pants or fancy dress or just your normal clothes, as it is the taking part that counts. It is only 3 miles (and 6 pubs) and starts and ends at Kempston Hammers where there will be cakes, food, fun and games for the rest of the family and also an early disco!

To enter and find out more, please go to our Facebook pages for all the links! www.Facebook.com/ParadeinyourPants Also follow us on Twitter: @ParadeinPants

PARADE IN YOUR PANTS! Corporate sponsors and raffle prizes needed - please call Julia for details on how you can help: 07966 696784 or email: paradeinyourpants@hotmail.co.uk

In Association with: Orchid charity number: 1080540

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All about...

Jonathan Taylor

Your top three movies?

The Matrix, Shawshank Redemption, Avatar What do you do to relax?

Escape to my folks house in Cornwall to get away from it all. My phone gets switched off if the sun is shining there is no better beaches in Europe.

Your most extravagant purchase and why?

I am yet to buy my first house so it has to be my Audi TT. It drinks huge amounts of petrol but I absolutely love it.

If you could be anyone or anything what would it be?

I always wanted to be a doctor. That was quickly ruled out when I realised I couldn’t stand blood.

Describe your ideal woman?

My girlfriend Diana. Funny, clever and looks after me.

If you were stranded on a desert island, what three items would you take with you?

Matches, a bottle of expensive red wine, wind up radio.

What would you do if you had a time machine?

Travel back to 1966 to watch England win the World Cup. Just in case we never win it again.

You can’t leave the house without?

Its really sad but my mobile phone.

If I take a look in your fridge what would I find?

The usual essentials plus lots of cheese, champagne and tonic water.

If you could meet anyone in the world dead or alive who would it be and what would you say to them?

My Grandad on my mums side who is no longer with us.

I only met him about 4 times and so I would just get to know him better.

Age: 27 Occupation: General Manager,

If you were a biscuit what would you be?

A Chocolate caramel digestive. Probably the best biscuit in the world.

The Embankment

Who is your inspiration/role model?

My director Andrew Coath. He has helped me achieve huge amounts in the last 4 years and is the hardest working person I know.

Describe yourself in three words?

Hardworking, Fun, Ambitious

What is the one gadget you couldn't live without?

A waiters friend – obviously!

What makes you stand out in a crowd?

My loud voice. I always seem to be the loudest person in the room. This used to cause me all sorts of trouble at school.

Where do you see yourself in ten years?

Running a big country house hotel.

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Visa Hat £15 River Island

Affinity master August 2013 quark 15_Layout 1 copy 18/07/2013 05:43 Page 56

Fry’s

footie corner

E

verybody asks the question, what does a Director of Football do? I can only explain my role and how it works at Peterborough United. When Darragh MacAnthony purchased the club from me, he completed due diligence and in that process, he noticed a lot of money coming into the football club from deals that had been completed on players under my time in charge. This money was part of add-on deals that had been negotiated under the terms of the transfer of players out of Peterborough United.

Darragh stipulated that he would complete the purchase of the football club on the proviso that I became Director of Football and continued to be responsible for all deals in regards to transfers and contracts of players and officials. The most important relationship in a football club is that of the chairman and the manager. If they are not on the same wavelength, you have no chance.

He also felt that he did not want his managers’ involved in this process of negotiations with agents and players because he wanted them to concentrate fully on football. Today’s modern day manager has so much to do, particularly with the media.

When I first started in management, I spoke to one journalist a week.

Nowadays, a manager speaks to four television stations, three or four radio stations, as well as the local newspaper, tabloids throughout the country, magazines, agencies and club websites. It is an extremely time consuming exercise and my chairman wanted to take as many of things away from our manager as possible so they could concentrate on getting the best from the players in training and on match days.

When the chairman and the manager identify a player, they inform me and it is my job to watch that player and enter into negotiations with the club to arrange the transfer. I work within the constraints of our budget and if we cannot afford the player concerned in terms of the transfer fee, I have to fit it into next year’s budget or in some cases, the year after.

Once the payment of the fee is arranged with the chairman, and the final say is with him because it is his money, we then seek permission to speak to the player concerned.

Once that has been granted, the player and his representatives will come down to London Road.

Our manager, Darren Ferguson and Darren alone, will speak to the player about football, while I argue with the representatives in the boardroom about wages, incentives, bonuses etc. At no stage, do I talk to any of the players about the football side of things. There is only one manager at a football club, he picks the team and it is down to him to discuss his plans with the player on the pitch.

www.theposh.com

This has worked enormously well for us at Peterborough United over the past seven years. We buy lower league players, who are young, hungry, want to listen and want to learn and everybody we have signed, Darren Ferguson has improved individually beyond recognition and during that time we have clinched three promotions, whilst playing exciting football and scoring over 100 goals in several of those campaigns. We have also secured over £25 million in transfer fees and add-ons during that time and the majority of that money has

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been invested back into the team or the facilities.

The model works for our club.

Sometimes, I am seen as the bad guy because it is me that negotiates the players’ contracts and it is fair to say, that we are not the best payer’s in the league.

This is down to crowd size, income and size of club.

Our big attraction for players’ to come to the Posh, is that the chairman and the manager believe in young talent and will

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give them the opportunity to play. These players could earn more money elsewhere and go to bigger clubs, but would they play?

Nearly every agent that I speak to, tells me how excited their player is to play for Darren Ferguson because of his reputation and every player that has played under him has the highest respect and praise for the way he goes about his business. It makes my job easier.

My role as Director of Football means my loyalties are to my chairman and to the Football Club. I know our budget and I know sometimes money cannot be spent.

When people say, why should Barry Fry be in the role that I am in, it is simple, I have been a football manager for 31 years and in that time, it was me that completed the transfers.

Nowadays, I never ever talk to a manager about the transfer of a player. It is always with the owner of that football club, the chairman of a football club, the CEO, managing Director or the Director of Football that I open negotiations. I never speak to the managers because none of them do deals anymore.

I feel I have an advantage over most for the simple reason that not only have I got 31 years of management experience, but I have also been on the other side. I have been secretary of football clubs, I have been a chairman of a football club and I have been an owner of a football club.

Therefore, I know every aspect there is about how a club runs, good and bad and I am able to advise my young, talented and knowledgeable chairman and manager and pass on my experience to them. At the end of the day though, the final decision lies with them and sometimes they want to do things their own way.

Throughout the season, the manager identifies players that he wants and he also identifies players that he doesn’t want anymore, ones that are no longer in his plans. It is my job to sell those players and if it is outside of the transfer window, I have to obtain loan fees for those players. We have been very successful in our loan deals, nearly always we receive a fee and we get the players’ wages paid.

We also add in promotion bonuses and this has proved successful every season since Darragh took over the club, none more so than this year. We received nearly £1 million of add-ons when Hull City clinched promotion to the Premier League. George Boyd and Aaron McLean both joined the Tigers and promotion add-ons were included in the deal.

Ryan Bennett played a number of games for Norwich City in the Premier League, which triggered payments inserted into the deal, we received a loan fee from Barnsley and a loan fee from Doncaster Rovers for Emile Sinclair, and not only that, we received a promotion bonus when Doncaster finished as league winners even though he didn’t play at the Keepmoat Stadium.

We received a loan fee when Tyrone Barnett joined Ipswich Town and received promotion bonus payments as part of Lee Frecklington’s move to Rotherham United and Shwan Jalal’s departure to AFC Bournemouth. Jalal was sold four years ago, but a promotion clause was inserted into the deal. Every extra penny helps the club.

My role at Peterborough United also involves overseeing the youth set-up at London Road. The youth set-up was dismantled when I was manager, by the then owner, much to my disgust. The first thing I did when I took over was to headhunt Dave Robertson, who was working for the local council. Dave worked for us prior to the disbandment of the Academy and he was put in charge.

It is very hard to start off a youth programme where you need players representing age groups from under 9s through to under 18s. That is why I believe, in seven years, that decision is bearing fruit with seven or eight of the youth team players coming through and challenging for a first team place.

Both the chairman and the manager have strong beliefs in giving youth the chance if you are good enough. It is very important that we all keep an eye on the youth, so the manager and the management team are so involved in the day to day running of the first team squad, that they can’t spend as much time with the youngsters as they would like.

That is where I come in. I watch the magnificent work Gavin Strachan has done with our under 18s. I see them as much as I can by getting out and about and seeing the talent available. Even on Sunday mornings, I have watched our younger age groups perform and they all gave me great satisfaction to see their enthusiasm, not to mention their talent.

When Darren Ferguson was in his first spell at the football club, we didn’t have our own training facility. Along with Dave Robertson and the Nene Park Academy, we entered into a partnership and that was very important. We have a magnificent facility that is not only beneficial to the whole club, but also to the community when the 3G pitch is installed.

59

The whole squad, at every age, will be able to call the Nene Park Academy their home, and that is extremely important.

These things do not happen overnight and you have to attend many meetings, mornings, afternoons and in the evenings and you have to give something back.

Joan Hill, who started the Posh Foundation, raised a lot of money to get the training ground up and running. A lot of work goes on behind the scenes and I am heavily involved in this. The chairman and Darren are very supportive, but even they were amazed about what the football club does within the local community.

Both Dave and the Community manager Nick Sheppard put together a presentation for Gillian Beasley, the chief executive of Peterborough City Council and to many business partners within the Posh Foundation and they were staggered by the work that we, as a football club, do within the community.

The football club undertake a number of projects in partnership with local schools, the city council and the local emergency services and the positive feedback that we receive is fantastic. One of the projects is the social inclusion/community cohesion scheme which sees our community department deliver regular coaching sessions in partnership with the Cambridgeshire Constabulary and Peterborough City Council’s Youth Offending Team.

These sessions have seen a 30% reduction in crime and a 35% reduction in Anti-social behaviour. Not only that, we deliver coaching programmes for disabled footballers and have recently set-up an Adult Learning Disabilities team. There is a whole raft of sessions that the Community department put on for Peterborough and surrounding areas and it is a pleasure to be involved.

Because Darragh MacAnthony has so much passion and commitment for The Posh, despite living in America, I keep him informed of everything that goes on, good or bad, at London Road. He has his own conversation with the manager and then I get my instructions from the chairman with a decision that we are all united in because it is the best for Peterborough United Football Club.

I love everything I do and long may it continue.

Barry Fry

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Supercar Sunday T

he Supercar Sunday at The Sharnbrook Hotel (a couple of miles out of Bedford) is back next month.

If you prefer to have a meal in the Vesuvio restaurant whilst watching the Grand Prix or catching up with friends, then it is open all day.

Supercar is a term used most often to describe an expensive high end car. It has been defined specifically as "a very expensive, fast or powerful car”. Stated in more general terms: "it must be very fast, with sporting handling to match. It should be sleek and eye-catching" and its price should be "one in a rarefied atmosphere of its own"

Sponsored this year by Advancing People, Advancing Property and Motorvogue This promises to be another big hit for The Sharnbrook carrying on their success from last month’s Italian car and bike show.

If you would like to show your car email Ciro at info@thesharnbrookhotel.com to register your car/bike and therefore free entry to our event for the car, driver & passengers/pillion.

If you’ve got a supermodel, whether it’s a supercar or superbike in your garage or on your driveway and would like to have others admiring her beauty, then this is the place to display her.

With live Italian Grand Prix action being shown during the event, along with a BBQ, Hog Roast and children’s fair, this is not just a day out for supercar fans but also great fun for all the family.

Supercar Sunday Sunday 8th September 11am – 3pm www.thesharnbrookhotel.com 60

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Bedford Wheels for friendly professional advice with competitive prices The price we quote is the price you pay!

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McLaren 12C

M

GT Sprint

cLaren GT is to produce a new high performance variant of the 12C, named the 12C GT Sprint, designed to offer further enhanced handling through optimised aerodynamics and track focus.

Generating 625PS, the optimised 3.8-litre twin turbo engine includes a unique oil system, and cooling system which features a 12C GT3 developed central front radiator. The GT Sprint retains the 12C’s seven speed twin clutch gearbox.

The track-only model signifies the continued development of the 12C model, and bridges the gap between the 12C, itself fully accomplished on both road and track, and the all-out racing 12C GT3 and 12C GT CanAm Edition models. It has been designed and developed

by McLaren GT, the race car building arm of the McLaren Group, and retains many of the unique systems from the 12C road car, on which it is based.

The PCC suspension system has been tuned and recalibrated to suit the cars lower ride height and racing slick tyres, providing a firmer and more circuit-orientated setup. The 12C GT Sprint has three unique handling modes which allow the driver to select their preferred damping, roll stiffness and ESP settings.

Built around the lightweight carbon fibre MonoCell chassis, and with developments to systems such as ProActive Chassis Control, (PCC), Brake Steer and the McLaren Airbrake, the latest model from McLaren GT has been honed to deliver a more track-focused GT racing experience whilst retaining the balance and precise characteristics much praised in the road car.

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Externally, the 12C GT Sprint features optimised aerodynamic and cooling upgrades. At the front is a more aggressive front bumper, GT3-inspired bonnet with radiator exit ducts and front wing louvres. Lowered by 40 mm, the 12C GT Sprint is fitted with track-focused braking system with carbon ceramic (CCM) brake discs. Tyre changes are made easier through an on-board air jacking system and centre-locking 19-inch OZ wheels, shod with Pirelli racing slick tyres.

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Focuses on t

he Track

Inside the cabin, the 12C GT Sprint is fitted with an FIAapproved rollcage and integrated fire extinguisher system. A fully adjustable HANS-approved, lightweight composite racing seat fitted with full six-point harness provides the optimum driving position, while an airconditioning system is retained, albeit a lightweight version, offering added comfort.

A carbon fibre dash houses the race developed digital display and key vehicle controls which interface with a McLaren GT developed steering wheel.

Further enhancements will be available through a range of bespoke options, as well as being finished in heritage McLaren Orange as standard.

Further details will be announced in due course, but an initial batch of 20 cars will be delivered this year and will be available from McLaren retailers below with a price tag of just under ÂŁ200,000.

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Learning to Love Holidays Holidays are something lots of us look forward to all year, but they can also be something that people dread. Holidays involve making a lot of decisions and in the busyness of life sometimes people agree to holidays that have been arranged with little personal involvement, then as they approach they realise that some elements are not what they really want. This can be true for families, groups of friends, or holidays for other groups.

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Leaving work behind One of the difficult things for people can sometimes be leaving work behind. Obviously some people can’t wait but others, even though they may be looking forward to the holiday, find themselves working like crazy just before and then wanting to check emails or ring someone to find out if something has been done as soon as they have left the office. Like lots of other things in life holidays can often be enjoyed most with a little planning – remembering to actually download that book you wanted on your kindle, before you find you are somewhere without wifi, or remembering to pack those little items that make a difference to you.

So, however busy work is and however much you think, even subconsciously, that some things won’t get done without you, make sure you leave work with enough time to get ready for your holiday.

The benefit of a holiday is time away from routine, so make the decision to leave the laptop or blackberry at home and enjoy and benefits of time with family, friends or on your own to relax.

about them. It is worth referring the matter to management if you can, but again a choice must be made.

If things can’t be changed you have to choose whether or not you are going to let it ruin the holiday experience for you or whether you are able to put it aside and enjoy yourself anyway. In terms of activities remember too that the holiday is your time to relax, if you are someone who enjoys activities then throw yourself into them but, if quietly reading your book is more your scene then make sure you get the chance to do that and enjoy your holiday doing what you want to do.

Relaxation and Reflection For many people this is the thing they like most about a holiday. Being away from routine gives you time to relax and, of course, when we relax we can sometimes see things with greater clarity. Relaxation doesn’t just mean lying in the sun it can be walking, visiting tourist attractions, simply having time to play with the children or have leisurely discussions with a partner or friends over relaxed evening meals.

There is something restorative about relaxation. Lives today can be so busy that we literally have no time to think, and for some people time to do anything for themselves simply gets squeezed out of life. So revel in your holiday as a time to relax and catch up on yourself a bit.

Being away from home often gives us the chance to see things from a different perspective, is the new job what you’d hoped for, are there some worries about children, money or some aspect of the future that you’d like time to think about and perhaps even discuss with others.

Travelling There are lots of aspects of travelling that can be unpleasant, long journeys, cancelled or delayed flights, queues, discomfort and for some, real fear. If you do suffer from travel anxiety or phobia then get help now before you go. There are lots of different types of help, medication, hypnotherapy or tapping to mention just a few.

But sometimes with a change of perspective we might notice things about ourselves, our relationships or our lives that we aren’t that happy about. The first step is to be honest with ourselves about our own feelings. Don’t rush things because the beauty of a holiday is that you have time to think, then ‘sleep’ on it –or even sunbatheand think again. Use that luxury, give yourself time but then consider your options and perhaps use the time to discuss your thoughts with the people you are with. When we are relaxed we are often more open to some of our subconscious thoughts, that part of us that we don’t always get the chance to listen to in the humdrum of day to day life. Then, when you get home see if you still feel the same. At that point determine to change the things that you are not happy about. It is your life, your only life, and only you can know if you are happy.

Accommodation Sometimes people are delighted with their holiday accommodation but whether it is a hotel, apartment, villa or caravan, the standard of accommodation is one aspect of holidays that is most commonly complained about.

Whatever the standard don’t let it ruin your holiday. If it is really unacceptable make your feelings known, calmly if you can, but if it is something that you can’t change, or if your complaint falls on deaf ears, then determine that you will deal with it on your return and try and enjoy what you can.

So this year embrace your holiday and all its aspects and use it as a time of fun relaxation and reflection for yourself.

Activities Sometimes people choose a holiday because of the activities on offer, so it is understandable that it causes problems if they are not the way they were portrayed in the brochure or if there is some other disappointment

For more information and help dealing with emotional issues that impact on your own life 07921 193479 info@attunededucation.com www.attunededucation.com 65

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Welcome to the musings of Yummy Mummy. Living in Bedford she is married to ‘The Husband’ and together they have 4 children, Rafferty 8, Violet 6, Roman 5 and baby Clementine 1.

All my views are my own and are not intended to offend anyone but alas I may frustrate you as I certainly do myself and no doubt those around me at times. I would love to hear from you, your views, questions or indeed just to share your experiences of trying to be a Yummy Mummy. Email me at info@affinitymag.co.uk

The Elusive Half a Stone!

C

ome on ladies and gents who wants to lose that last half a stone? As we all know, that will make our lives perfect, don't we? As fitting into all those clothes that are hanging redundant in our wardrobes for when we hit the magic number on the scales, it will transform our lives, won't it?!!

Now when it comes to diets I have tried most of them however there are some I wouldn't even consider.

Starting with the cabbage soup diet - now why would anyone want to do that when you read about the windy side effects!! The meal replacement diets are off my radar too as I need to feel like I have eaten something there is alot to be said for chewing!

potatoes and I felt hard done by if I had to use my 'Syn' allowance on these rather than wine, chocolate or crisps! If you can live with less carbs and hate counting calories, points etc, then this would be good for you. I don't like to be told what I can't eat - in fact I don't actually like being told anything!

What I am currently playing with is the big new phenomenon 'The Fast Diet' as I've read various positive articles, then the book and there was a documentary last year about it with scientific explanations. Basically you 'fast' for two days every week (not consecutive) that's consume 500/600 calories on these days and then eat normally for the remaining five days. You have to make sure you don't make up for the fast days by gorging on the normal days though! I did it for a couple of weeks and lost 4lbs but then something cropped up so I have yet to resume it! The reason I am happy to persevere is because of the benefits to health, i.e. the Alzheimers, Diabetes risks are meant to be reduced this may not be true but it can't hurt to eat less!

Back in my pre-pregnancy days I really didn't need to worry too much about dieting as I had youth on my side and I was always on the go. Plus those were nightclubbing days and I did, and still do when I get the chance, enjoy a good boogie! However as soon as I fell pregnant for the first time I developed a very sweet tooth and the constant nausea was only soothed by non stop eating!! Bowls of vanilla ice cream with chunks of Dairy Milk were a favourite as well as orange ice lollies!

I still also ate plenty of crisps so unfortunately I didn't replace savoury with sweet but just went for both and I continue to do so despite not being pregnant anymore!

Between each pregnancy I halfheartedly attempted diets but always in the back of mind I knew I hadn't completed my family so I tolerated my 'extra baggage'!

However after the birth of number four it was time to tackle it with a vengeance! After the all clear following my six week check I joined WeightWatchers and was raring to go! And boy I was determined and I lost a stone and a half in three months, most of this was 'baby weight' but nonetheless, I felt great! However life being life, I was soon distracted and was too busy to keep counting everything I ate so I lost the momentum to lose that final half a stone!

So after a break, I got back on the horse! I flirted with Slimming World however I can't live without bread and

However as we all know the best way to lose the pounds is to move more and eat less! Therefore I have discovered the best way for me is to run. The running bug has returned to my life and I feel so much better for it. I feel great after a run (not necessarily during one though!!), my skin looks better and of course my figure does too as I lost the elusive last few pounds! But the most important thing is that my children can see me leading an active and healthy lifestyle without obsessing about what foods I can and cannot eat. So Ladies and Gents - get your trainers on whether it is for a run, walk, exercise class etc and enjoy your food ..... in moderation of course!

And do you know what, losing that last half a stone didn't make one iota of difference to my life!

Yummy Mummy 66

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Floral Aviators £6 Marks & Spencer

e d a h s In the Boys Blue and Green Sunglassses £3.50 F & F Tesco Blue Retro Aviator £6 Marks & Spencer

Baby Daisy Novelty £6 Monsoon

Bluezoo £5 Debenhams

Retro Pink and Blue £5 Marks & Spencer Flamingo £6 Debenhams

Pink Pattern £3.50 F&F Tesco

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ALL IN THIS SUMMER WITH

VICEROY ANGUILLA’S T

his summer bask in the Caribbean sun at Viceroy Anguilla with the Viceroy Inclusive Package and be treated to accommodation in a Viceroy King room, daily breakfast for two, daily lunch for two, and daily dinner for two.

Situated on 35 lush acres, with 3,200 feet of beachfront land along the white sands of Barnes and Meads Bays, Viceroy Anguilla features 166 c o n t e m p o r a r y accommodations including a number of sophisticated townhomes, opulent resort residences and 31 four or five bedroom beachfront and blufftop villas.

Viceroy Anguilla has an unmistakable sense of place where guests can revel in utter privacy yet enjoy unlimited access to both the resort and island’s myriad pleasures.

Viceroy Anguilla provides an eclectic array of dining ambiences and menu selections - from beachside

grills to signature dining, from family-style portions to tapas. Live local music and inspiring architecture complete each experience.

Central to the resort experience and poised right at the water’s edge, the stunningly designed 8,000square-foot Spa offers a myriad of wellness rituals that cultivate body and soul alignment, including signature collections massages, body polishes, wraps, facials, manipedicures, a sea mist infinity pool, three outdoor treatment cabanas and hightech Vichy shower for specialised hydrotherapy treatments. The fitness centre features sophisticated equipment as well as yoga and spinning studios for classes, and there are three pools spread throughout the resort.

Rates for the Viceroy Inclusive Package start from £460 per room per night.

For further information please visit the website www.viceroyhotelsandresorts.com/en/anguilla/reservations/special_offers/vip Terms & Conditions: Soft drinks and service charge included, alcoholic beverages not included. Guests who wish to dine outside of Viceroy will be provided a $100 credit to be used at Viceroy Anguilla’s restaurants and spa during their stay. Book now until December 20, 2013

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Autumn Season is Upon Us T

heatre-goers can look forward to a host of sensational shows coming to Milton Keynes Theatre this Autumn with shows taking you through the winter and into the Spring of 2014.

Finally in the year that marks the 75th anniversary of the Kindertransport, the moving drama of the same name is a timely and unmissable story of love and loss, past and present and hope for the future.

September kicks off with two musical feasts. Funky new show, Carnaby Street will take you back to London in the 60s; its iconic clubs, trendy fashions and eccentric characters, when all you needed was a dream and a guitar. While the smash-hit, direct from the West End, Ghost The Musical, based on the phenomenal Oscar-winning movie that captured the hearts of a generation back in the 90s, delivers a rollercoaster ride of romance and comedy with dazzling state-of-the-art staging.

The Autumn sees not one but two international superstars take to the stage. Give us a 00 – oooh as you prepare to spend a night with legendary Bond film star in An Evening with Sir Roger Moore or join Barry Humphries and his various alter egos including, of course, Dame Edna Everage in his farewell tour which kicks off in MK.

A trio of dramas promise to move you to tears and laughter. Following a fantastically well-received run at the National Theatre, laugh out loud with Alan Bennett’s acclaimed new comedy People starring Sian Phillips, Brigit Forsyth, Selina Cadell and Michael Thomas. People spoil things; there are so many of them and the last thing one wants is them traipsing through one’s house. But with the parka jungle and a bath on the billiard table, what is Dorothy to do? Don’t miss this touching comedy.

A darkly comic double bill is brought to you from Award-winning playwright Sir Peter Shaffer in the form of The Private Ear and The Public Eye starring Jasper Britton, Steven Blakely, Rupert Hill and Siobhan Kelly. This is the first major revival in 50 years of these intimate one-act comedies – performed on the same night – and gives a fascinating window into the changing attitudes to life and love in the 60s.

Glyndebourne return for their annual visit with Humperdinck’s Hänsel und Gretel which vividly evokes the magical world of fairy-tales with a deliciously witty, modern twist, while L’elisir d’amore distils the essence of Donizetti’s most intoxicating comedy into a vintage blend of sparkling high spirits and heart-warming sentiment.

Marking the 100th anniversary of the birth of Benjamin Britten, a new production of The Rape of Lucretia, directed by the acclaimed actress and director, Fiona Shaw, completes the distinguished opera company’s visit to MK. Ballet fans can look forward to unmissable entertainment from one of the most breathtaking ballet spectacles as English National Ballet present Le Corsaire, a ripping period pirate adventure, and make some noise for the BalletBoyz, as one of the most cheekily original and innovative forces in modern dance guarantee to thrill with their distinctive energetic style.

There’s plenty of music to see you through the cold nights from Brit

Floyd, Slade and Sweet, The Hollies, Beyond The Barricade, The Glenn Miller Orchestra, The Bootleg Sixties, the That’ll be the Day brand new Christmas show, The Soweto Gospel Choir and Let’s Hang On. Or give your funny bones a good warm up with Ed Byrne, Joe Pasquale in Ha Ha Holmes, Jason Manford and the all-star cast of the Vagina Monologues.

Completing the ultimate Christmas package are even more familiar faces as one of the UK’s ‘biggest’ exports, Hollywood superstar Warwick Davis leads a world class cast in the annual pantomime Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. Kev Orkian returns to tickle the funny bones of Milton Keynes following his rave reviews as Buttons in Cinderella, whilst star of Les Misérables in the West End, Shaun Dalton joins them as the dashing Prince Charming. With more star cast to be announced it’s guaranteed to be the best way to end your year!

A look ahead to 2014 sees the arrival of Priscilla Queen of the Desert, global musical phenomenon Wicked, Matthew Bourne’s stunning Swan Lake, WNO’s ‘Fallen Women’ trio La Traviata, Manon Lescaut and Boulevard Solitude, the Dance Consortium’s Boxe Boxe, Derren Brown’s Infamous, Tonight’s the Night – The Rod Stewart Musical, West End masterpiece West Side Story and the return of classic story on stage , Dirty Dancing.

So now there’s no excuse not to be entertained this Autumn Tickets are on sale now for all shows: Milton Keynes Theatre Box Office 0844 871 7652 www.atgtickets.com/miltonkeynes

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A Feat of

Clay?

A

t Tudor Rose Patchwork we always try to broaden our range of workshops to add variety, but also to let people try something new, if you see the difference. We will consider any workshop topic provided it fits within the general catergory of “craft”.

Some of our diversions from basic patchworking have worked well. Others have just failed to take anyone’s fancy, and that’s a shame, because giving something a go is great. However, we can only try!

So here we are with another workshop completely out there in a left field. Laura Dunn from Bedford will be holding a workshop in ceramics on Saturday 10th August and then again on Saturday 31st August. On the first day participants will make figures, which can double as liquid holders (for instance, for storing olive oil). Pourers will be added! That’s the end of the messy part of pottery – making the figures. Laura will then

take the green items away and fire them so that they will be ready for the second session on August 31st when they will be painted. After that session Laura will glaze and fire them again, so that the paint doesn’t wash off before returning them a week later.

Now this is an area I personally know something about because years ago, when I began growing bonsai trees, acquiring traditional bonsai pots was very difficult. So I did some pottery lessons and began to make my own.

I won’t say they were great, but they did the job, and I still have several of them. It was, quite honestly a lot of fun working with the clay and then, when the pots were bisque-fired, applying the glazes before having them fired up to stoneware. There’s a real sense of achievement to be had, as there is with any hobby of course.

C&B Home and Garden Maintenance Ceramics Workshop August 10 and 31 Details on the Website!

One off jobs to regular maintenance For all your home and garden needs

TudorRose Patchwork For a friendly reliable service and a free quote give us a call on 07531 491019 c-bmaintenance@hotmail.co.uk

Your LOCAL Threadcraft Hobby Shop! http://www.tudorrosepatchwork.co.uk

Present this Magazine and get Phone 01234 824983 10% off your next Purchase!* info@tudorrosepatchwork.co.uk *Cannot be used with other offers

Station Road, Oakley MK43 7RB

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A quiet night in.......

O

nly minutes after Abbie Elliot and her three best friends step off of a private helicopter, they enter the most luxurious, sumptuous, sensually pampering hotel they have ever been to. Their lavish presidential suite overlooks Monte Carlo, and they surrender: to the sun and pool, to the sashimi and sake, to the Bruno Paillard champagne. For four days they’re free to live someone else’s life. As the weekend moves into pulsating discos, high-stakes casinos and beyond, Abbie is transported to the greatest pleasure and release she has ever known……….In the morning’s harsh light, Abbie awakens on a yacht, surrounded by police.

Something awful has happened–something impossible, unthinkable. Abbie, Winnie, Serena, and Bryah are arrested and accused of the foulest crime imaginable. And now the vacation of a lifetime becomes the fight of a lifetime–for survival.

The story unfolds like an edge-of-your-seat movie that leaves you emotionally drained at the end. At the same time, it is a cautionary tale that warns against revenge taken hastily in any form and the betrayal of marital trust!

DVD release

Latest cinema release

T

he raw pace of ‘Taken’, the suspense of ‘Collateral’ and the non-stop twists of ‘Inside Man’ combine in THE NUMBERS STATION; a breakneck thriller that is impossible to resist right up till its explosive and mind-blowing climax.

In order to stay alive, you must learn who to trust, who to protect and who to kill.

Emerson, a disgraced black ops agent, is tasked with a deadend job, protecting 20 year old Katherine, the code operator for a small CIA broadcast station in a barren region.

Emerson’s mission is simple: protect Katherine. Keep her safe and keep her secure.

When a car bomb outside the station signals an ambush, the pair are forced to take refuge in the station itself, using Emerson’s deadly combat skills as their only weapon. But Emerson’s call for back-up prompts orders which make his blood run cold and throw his loyalties into question: “Secure location. Retire asset”.

Under attack from a group of unknown, but lethal aggressors with only a recorded message from the previous broadcaster’s bodyguard to go on, Emerson and Katherine find themselves in a life-or-death struggle against a resolute enemy. With the station compromised, an unclear target and no escape, the truth becomes their priority if they want to make it out alive.

Release Date 13th August

R

ival undercover agents Denzel Washington and Mark Wahlberg team up to stay alive in this explosive actioncomedy! Bobby (Denzel Washington) is a DEA agent working undercover as a member of a Mexican narcotics syndicate.

Stig (Mark Wahlberg) is a US Naval Intelligence Officer working undercover in the same syndicate. The trouble is that while each investigates the other, neither knows that his target is also a federal agent! Things turn hairy when they take part in a heist that nets millions. Both men think the cash belongs to the Mob. But in fact, this is the CIA's money.

Now it seems as though everybody is after the duo - either to put them in jail or six feet under. Their only chance of survival is to put aside their mutual mistrust and work together. This is a thrillingly hyper-kinetic mismatched buddy comedy.

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Release Date: 1st July

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Ask Sue...

Sue has over 30 years experience in the psychic field and is an authority on crystals and psychic energy, and is a world renowned Tarot reader and teacher!

My dreams are becoming more and more real. My wife is in them more regularly and I always see her with another man and she laughs at me, I reach out to her but I can't seem to get near to her what does this mean and what can I do Thanks for your help Paul

HI Janice. The cards say that you have areas of your life that you feel that you would love to spend more time with, and ideally your business should be something that you enjoy and want to spend time doing, rather than just thinking of it as a money making idea alone.

Because it will inevitably take up a lot of your time and you only have one encouraging people to make more of themselves, as you have done, and this would be the best suggestion that the cards can give you.

Ask yourself what you are good at, and then do that.

Hi Paul, You have a lot of worries of worthlessness around you, which when pushed away come back in dream form to have your subconscious mind sort them out. The best way would be to write down the genuine worries that you have, (and that would have to be all of them , however small,) so that your subconscious recognizes that you are perceiving them, and can then stop trying to force you to be open to the problems.

Fold the paper, and put it under your pillow when you go to sleep, and they will then be present in the subconscious for the mind to unravel any possible solutions, and file away any as pointless that have no answers. I don’t believe that you have any problems with your wife, except that you are fearful of tellng her what worries you, in case she doesn’t want to hear. It is just your fear that she will not value you because of the problems that are causing this distress.

About a year ago I met a really good friend through business - we get on like we have known each other forever, next year we are looking at going into business together (we both already have our own businesses) what I would like to know is will this be ok as I would hate a business relationship to ruin our friendship and if so will we be successful – Thank you Clara Hi Clara, you have already met in your business heads, and the friendship followed, so you are unlikely to have the power struggles and the issues that other business partners have. Your ideas for the business correspond quite well and you rub sparks of ideas off each other for bleaker periods, if ever they ensue.

You are shown as a success, both in the relationship, and in the business.

I have drawn The World card, which means everything, so go ahead and enjoy it all.

I have my own business which I have worked hard at building up, I need another source of income as this job doesn't provide me with enough to live on (I don't want to give it up completely though), and so I am looking at another business to set up and run beside it my only difficulty is I have no idea what business to set up - can you ask the cards if they see any particular path or area that I should concentrate on and that I should go down - Thank you Janice

Sue offers one to one readings on a private basis, workshops, courses and much more www.sanctuary-bedford.co.uk 01234 327090 74

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elements

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WAYNE MARSH ALL

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your guide to .........

What’s On August 2013 Mon 29th July – Fri 2nd August Sun, Sea & Splash! At Camp MK This Summer leave the kids at one of Camp MK’s 14 venues for great holiday adventures every day! In the second week of Summer Camp MK have a brilliant Sun, Sea & Splash themed week filled with water activities and beach themed games! Put your shades on and challenge your friends to a game of Beach Volleyball, jump in the swimming pool and zoom down the zoom floom! All of this plus the usual fun and games at all 14 venues, including Gulliver’s Theme Park! OFSTED registered, lunch and a two course hot evening meal plus all drinks and snacks are also included.

For more information and to book, visit www.kidsplaychildcare.co.uk.

All of our Camp MK venues are located in or around Milton Keynes with easy transport links.

Mon 5th – Fri 9th August Soldiers School 11am – 4pm Wrest Park , Silsoe, Luton Beds Training for the Tommy and the home front forces. How would you have fared as a Soldier during the second world war! Find out what life was really like during the 1940s, and then take part in the children's drill and obstacle course!

0870 333 1181 www.english-heritage.org.uk

Tues 30th July – Sat 31st August Summer Fun and New Displays London Transport Museum, Covent Garden Join London Transport Museum this summer to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the London Underground. The first Underground opened in January 1863 with a steam train chugging through the famous Underground tunnels. Families can join in science demonstrations; storytime and singalong sessions about travelling underground and design their own underground characters in make-and-take activities.

Don’t miss the Museum’s new graphic display, Look for Longer which is on display until the end of 2013 and make sure to stop by the new family station to pick up activities to use as you explore the Museum all year round.

Entrance to the Museum is free for children under 16.

Adult admission is £15.00 (£11.50 concessions) and tickets allow unlimited entry for a whole year. www.ltmuseum.co.uk

Mon 12th – Sat 17th August Dreamboats and Petticoats Milton Keynes Theatre In 1961 emotions run high as young musicians Norman and Bobby compete to win a national song writing competition and, more importantly, the attention of the gorgeous Sue! But when Bobby discovers that shy Laura is no slouch on the piano, love and rock ‘n’ roll fame beckons…Dreamboats and Petticoats the songs will live forever!

Featuring classic tracks from Roy Orbison, The Shadows, Eddie Cochran, Billy Fury, and many more, including Let’s Dance, To Know Him is to Love Him, Shaking All Over, Bobby’s Girl, Little Town Flirt, Only Sixteen, Runaround Sue, Happy Birthday Sweet 16, Let It Be Me, Great Pretender, C’mon Everybody, Let’s Twist Again and many more hits from music’s golden era! www.atgtickets/miltonkeynes

Thurs 8th August Marston Mud A walk into the wetlands to make mud pies and clay creatures. It will be messy! 20 children per session £3.50 per child All children must be accompanied by an adult www.marstonvale.org

Fri 2nd August Minibeast Safari Marstonvale Forest Centre Join us on a hunt for minibeasts in the park. Search with sweep nets in the long grass, look under logs and see what’s hiding on the bushes. All equipment provided.

20 children per session £3.50 per child All children must be accompanied by an adult www.marstonvale.org

Sun 11th August Sue Ryder Annual Country Fete – 11am – 4.30pm St John’s Hospice, Moggerhanger, Beds This is a particularly special year for Sue Ryder, promising an extra-special fete! 2013 marks 60 years since our founder, Lady Sue Ryder, founded the charity in 1953.

As part of Sue Ryder's national 60th Anniversary celebrations, this year's fete will have a 1950’s theme. £2 per adult; children up to the age of 14 years enter for free.

Parking is free www.sueryder.org

Sat 3rd August Cople Music Festival 3.30pm Playing Field, Grange Lane, Cople Proms in the playing field, Bands, Hog Roast, BBQ, Bars, Grand finale of 'Proms' music. Bring your chairs, blankets and flags.

Charities for 2013 - Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation and St. John's Hospice, Moggerhanger.

Entrance £2 for adults, under 16 years free

Weds 14th August Y Spa Lifestyle Workshop ‘Stress Less’ Y Spa at Wyboston Lakes Hotel which is located midway between Cambridge and Milton Keynes, has launched a new suite of Lifestyle Workshops aimed at people who would like the time, environment and head space to rediscover themselves.

Includes 2 ½ hour workshop, 2 course lunch and use of the thermal spa suite with hydrotherapy pool, Kelo sauna, heated

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waterbeds, reading pods, steam and salt rooms and experience showers. £120 per person Call 0333 7007 667, email yspa@wybostonlakes.co.uk www.yspa.co.uk

three-course dinner and half bottle of wine, show with drag queen and male entertainers, pampering spa products and salon services, and a disco to dance the night away.

Prices start from just £49 per person for our three-course dinner, half bottle of house wine and evening entertainment.

0845 400 1406 www.whittleburyhall.co.uk

Fri 16th August Vintage Soul including 90’s RnB Singer Wayne Marshall LIVE Elements Nightclub, Bedford Vintage Soul is back again. Since the last Vintage Soul was so successful we thought to do another one! Big sounds for the more mature people. Soul, RnB Rare Groove Funk and lovers rock! A great night not to be missed – Affinity love this event and will definitely be there!

Tickets £7 01234330340/07845016147/ 07979861138 elements.bedford@live.co.uk rhinoselekta@yahoo.co.uk Sat 17th August Sandy Show – 1pm – 5pm Sandye Place Academy On show will be displays of Fruit, Vegetables, Floral Art and Crafts.

For younger visitors there is a free Punch and Judy show, Bouncy Castle, Teddy Bears Picnic and Chris's Animal Encounters. There will be a variety of stalls selling local crafts, jewellery, honey, foods, plants, paintings and woodcrafts.Refreshments will be available.

ENTRY TO THE SHOW IS FREE. Sat 17th – Sun 18th August Frosts Chilli Festival Willington 10am – 4pm Whether you like it ‘meek & mild’ or ‘hot & spicy’ Frosts have a sizzling FREE weekend lined up for you! We have 15 exhibitors selling a variety of chilli related products, ranging from chilli chocolate cupcakes to all manner of chilli jams, chutneys, sauces, cheeses and even beers and ciders! We will also have one of hottest ranges of chilli plants. We will have a selection of hot foods and snacks - whether you like spicy food or traditional. This year we have a daily schedule of music and entertainment and our FREE beach will be open for children to enjoy along giant garden games. www.frostsgroup.com.

Sat 24th – Mon 26th August Art Exhibition and sale 12pm – 5pm All Saints Church, Odell, Beds Now is the time to reveal your hidden talents!

If you would like to exhibit your paintings or photographs, please contact Catherine Corkery for an application form.

Tel: 01234 720348 e-mail: catherinelcorkery@yahoo.co.uk.

Closing date for applications: Friday 9th August Entry £2 (children under 16 free) Light refreshments available each day (Proceeds in aid of Church funds, and in support of our link missionaries, Dick & Caroline Seed in Kenya)

Business For Sale!

Family run pet care business for sale.

Cat feeding, dog walking, pet hosting, house sitting, medical care, pet taxi and more.

Running for over 5 years.

Very loyal client base.

3UR¿WDEOH DQG HQMR\DEOH Contact Gina for more information on 07736944237 or email info@beds.animalsathome.co.uk

Fri 23rd August Ladies Night – 7.30pm – 12.30am Whittlebury Hall Hotel and Spa Oh What a Night! - It's ladies night, so make sure you and your girls get the VIP treatment.

Join us on our ladies night with drinks on arrival, three-course dinner and a full evening of entertainment. Plus why not make more of your night and enjoy an overnight stay with full English breakfast.

You’ll be greeted by pre dinner drinks and have your photo taken by our paparazzi as you start your evening. Enjoy our

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“I have been advertising with Affinity for 18 months now, and can say without doubt that due to their direct marketing approach it has been instrumental in the ongoing success of G. Butler Loft Conversions.

It is the direct marketing approach to advertising that has helped because the magazine is distributed to the right places that create leads rather than just something to read.

When I am out and about I spot people reading the magazine and taking them away with them. Not bad for a magazine that has a high end look but is totally FREE!!

I have tried other less attractive small local magazines but they don't seem to have the cosmopolitan look that Affinity seems to have nailed in a competitive market.

In a nut shell if you had Affinity magazine on your coffee table you would leave it there!

Affinity magazine sets out to give advertisers a quality medium to work with, at the same time giving their readers a feature filled issue month after month with somewhere to find good local trades people and businesses.

I am very grateful to Jane and the team, and will continue to advertise on a long term basis.”

Gary Butler G.Butler, Loft and Garage Conversion Specialists $

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We can’t thank them enough.”

Karl and Olivia Millhouse Hotel & Riverside Restaurant “I have been using Affinity to advertise my home and garden maintenance business for the past year and couldn’t have found a better place for advertising.

The team are always helpful and supportive and my year long campaign has resulted in numerous new customers for me, my advertising will continue” Craig C&B Home and Garden Maintenance

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Photography for all occasions

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Affinity August 2013 Cover 1.e$S_Layout 1 copy 15/07/2013 14:39 Page 1

AUGUST 2013 ISSUE 27

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August 2013

All about MEN

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AFFINITY LUXURY LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

The latest celebrity diet fad...

Mushrooms

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Aston Martin celebrate

Bedfringe is back We put James Pharaoh in the hot seat

BEAUTY - FOOD - DRINK - HEALTH - FITNESS - STYLE - INTERIORS - MOTORS - WHAT’S ON