Feb2015

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Forever Love Collection Real love lasts forever

AFFINITY LUXURY LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

FEBRUARY 2015 ISSUE 45

FREE www.affinitymag.co.uk

February 2015

Fabulous Facial Lingerie Luxe

Hair Heroes

Gorgeous glowing skin from Elemis

Our pick of the best products for luscious locks

Guaranteed to get his pulse racing this valentines day

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

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Welcome...

H Everyone It is a well known fact that I enjoy a glass or two of champagne, so when Y Spa at Wyboston Lakes announced they were pairing with Perrier Jouet for an exclusive treatment I could hardly contain my excitement, imagine being pampered whilst sipping a cold glass of bubbles (page 21)– What more could a girl want? Well…….

This month also saw us reviewing Oliver’s restaurant, set within The Woburn Hotel in Woburn, a culinary treat right-on our doorstep.

February still sees us all trying to maintain our New Year resolutions as in keeping fit, being more healthy, staying stress free etc and we have the ideal Yoga retreat to visit to help you clear your mind and stay on track page 68 tells you all about Francis Ford Coppola’s Palazzo Margherita Yoga Retreat coming up in May!

I can’t let this month go without mentioning the V word – Yes Valentine’s Day! How can we forget that February is the month of LOVE! Our fashion pages (31) bring you a selection of lingerie to guarantee his temperature reaches boiling point. Don’t know what to get for the love of your life then let us help you we have gifts for her (page 28), for him (page 60) and food of love gifts (page 44), you’ll be spoilt for choice.

Until Next Month

Jane x

Cover Image: Chanel

Editor: Jane Fry jane@affinitymag.co.uk. 01234 215523 - 07507 602401 Advertising Manager: Julia Crofts affinitymagjuliac@gmail.com 07966 696784 Graphic Design and Photography: David Zita dave@affinitymag.co.uk www.affinitymag.co.uk facebook.com/AffinityMag @affinitymagz

linkedin.com/pub/jane-zita-fry

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. Reproduction in whole or in part is strictly prohibited.Printed in the UK by Regal Litho 01908 270400

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CONTENTS 14 Hair Heroes 18 Big & Bouncy 22 Picks of the Month

25 Back to Basics 26 Treatment of the Month 36 Secrets of Success

40 Foodie News 42 Dining at Oliver’s 48 Delicious Desserts

51 54 62 64 72

Interiors Taking the Plunge All About...

Roll out the Rolls Closer Together

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What does your kitchen mean to you?

Ltd NEW GERMAN KITCHENS CURRENTLY BEING INSTALLED

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Carita Haute Beaute Cheveu Revitalising Scrub for the Scalp £29.70 FeelUnique.com

Hair Heroes Charles Worthington Moisture Seal Hair Healer Leave in Conditioner £5.99 Boots

Eva NYC Hold Me Tight Hairspray £10 ASOS

Moroccan Oil Root Boost £18.85 Lookfantastic.com

We bring you a selection of the best products for celebrity looking hair

Windle & Moodie Texture Cream £15, Liberty L'Oreal Paris Elvive Fibrology Thickness Booster £5.99 Boots

Charles Worthington Volume & Bounce Texturising Spray £6.99 Boots

John Frieda Frizz Ease 3 Day Straight £6.99 Boots

Redken Smooth Lock Heat Glide £13.65 lookfantastic.com

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Veda Therapeutics Carolyn wood Herbal Medicine - Ayuverda Naturopathy - Therapeutic Massage - Ear Acupuncture

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

As a herbalist and naturopath I can help you with

• Immunity • Skin Conditions • Digestive Complaints • Hormonal imbalances • Heart health & Circulation • Energy & Wellbeing • Insomnia • Depression • Other chronic health conditions • Acute coughs & colds

07944 886502 carolyn612@btinternet.com www.vedatherapeutics.co.uk

PART TIME CLEANERS REQUIRED

01234 302408 07701 086394

www.brightnclean.co.uk

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Eat Yourself

Calm

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H

ave you ever considered what you eat might be influencing how you feel? What we consume can increase our energy levels and calm our mood. Before an exam, presentation or an important meeting it is all too easy to reach for a biscuit to provide some comfort. But that temporary junk food high or sugar rush is unlikely to help your mood - nor will it do your waistline any good.

We each now consume a staggering 24lbs of chocolate every year - and that's before you factor in any other sweet treats. Giving our bodies platefulls of processed food might make us feel good at first, but they can actually leave us feeling more wired. Whilst it is not always possible to avoid the trials and tribulations of daily life, what we can change is how we react to them with a healthy diet.

Sally Wisbey (www.sallywisbeynutrition.co.uk), Nutritionist suggests swapping some popular foods for a more natural alternative:

Swap: Refined white flours such as bread, pasta and rice and potatoes Try: Wholegrain flour, bread, pasta and sweet potatoes. These will provide your digestive system with more fibre and maintains regular cleansing of the digestive system.

Swap: Caffeinated drinks such as coffee, fizzy drinks and alcohol as these may make you feel irritable Try: Herbal teas such as chamomile can be pleasant and calming to drink. Green tea is an exception to the rule when it comes to no caffeine as it is supposedly richer in anti-oxidants than other types of tea because of the way they are processed.

Swap: Carbohydrate heavy diet Try: Adding fish, chicken, turkey, beef or eggs to every meal.

Protein contributes to the maintaince of muscle mass and bone development. It is also essential for the production of amino acids, the building blocks of protein and has a role in producing neurotransmitters in the brain. When snacking on fruit, include a small handful of nuts and seeds.

Swap: Gulping down food Try: Taking a moment out and relax, and eat your food slowly, enjoy it. Try popping a soothing RESCUE® Pastille into your mouth. RESCUE Pastilles provide a moment of calm and contain a combination of five Bach™ Original Flower Essences - Star of Bethlehem, Clematis, Impatiens, Rock Rose and Cherry Plum. The pleasant-tasting pastilles come in Elderflower & Orange, Blackcurrant or Cranberry flavours in a handy click-shut tin and cost £5.90 from Boots, independent pharmacies and health food stores, as well as grocery stores nationwide.

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Big and Bouncy Ghd Aura Professional Hairdryer The ghd Aura Professional lets you style while you dry, giving you speedy ultimate root-lifting volume and super smooth shine.

With two breakthrough innovations in technology, ghd aura offers a truly new drying and styling experience that delivers the ultimate in luxurious volume and a smooth, shiny finish. £125, John Lewis

T3 Featherweight 2 dryer Powered by proprietary T3 Tourmaline® and advanced SoftAire™ technology, the Featherweight 2 dries your hair faster for great results. With a sleek new design inspired by fashion trends, an ergonomic tilted handle and weight balanced shape, the Featherweight 2 is as beautiful to look at as it is to hold.

Experience the Science of Fabulous every time you blowdry. £155, t3haircare.co.uk

Nicky Clarke NHD120 Frizz Control Hair Dryer The Nicky Clarke Frizz Control Dryer is perfect for creative styling with volume, but with maximum control and minimum frizz.

With a stylish jet black design, this powerful 2000W blow dry styler features a high ionic output, which controls frizz and helps you style your hair to perfection. £24 95 Debenhams

Babyliss 5568U Salon Light AV Dryer This lightweight, 2100W long-life AC motor, gives high power airflow for fast drying results. The ionic system releases a stream of balancing ions to enhance the hair condition and eliminate frizz for a high shine finish. £30, Very

Mark Hill Limited Edition Style Shine Power Dryer A big bouncy blow dry is as important as your Little Black Dress - each one makes you feel like a million dollars. This salon professional ionic super-powered straightening hair dryer is the ultimate styling tool for creating super-smooth, frizz-free hair every time! Probably my most important styling tool of all, pump up the volume as you dry and smooth out frizz in just one blast.

This super Hottie ensures you never leave a room without being noticed. A real celebrity favourite! £59.99. Markhill.co.uk 18

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Re Brushed Loved by celebrity MUA’s this 'Must Have' brush collection from Lily Lolo is perfect for creating professional looking, flawless results every time. It includes 10 full size, high quality, vegan friendly brushes to apply your favourite products with ease and precision and is priced at £49.99 and available from lilylolo.co.uk

BEAUTY UPDATES New Age Cleansing

Beautifying the Body

This Silky Shower Gel from Miss Dior is available from Debenhams for £29, a gorgeous bath-time accessory that procures a fresh sensation. Delicately foaming and subtly scented, its satiny texture gently preserves the skin

Envelop your skin in the delicate, floral essential oils of Mandarin, Ho Wood and Ylang Ylang with Green People’s NEW Age Defy+ Purify & Hydrate Cream Cleanser priced at £24.95 and available from greenpeople.co.uk, active-packed to soothe and balance the skin, whilst increasing cell regeneration and improving circulation.

Luscious Lips

Love is in the Air Floral, fresh and sexy, Love Story is the new unforgettable essence of seduction from Chloé and available for £65 from John Lewis. Orange flower oil opens the fragrance with a radiant, luminous, and intoxicating characteristic like the flush of new love.

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We love this lipstick that has the convenience of a pencil from NARS. Lips are instantly saturated with rich pigments and a velvety matte finish. Use for lining, all-over lip color, or pairing with another lip product, great value at £18.

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Spa Bubbles for that Luxury Treat Y Spa at Wyboston Lakes in Bedfordshire, has teamed up with Perrier Jouet to offer a luxury spa manicure or pedicure package to their guests.

The package allows guests to indulge in a glass or two of Perrier Jouet Champagne selected, from the stylish Perrier Jouet ‘Enchantment Tree’.

This luxurious treatment is just perfect for that extra bit of pampering, having experienced it I have to say I can’t think of anything more relaxing than sipping champagne, whilst being completely pampered with a manicure or pedicure it was pure indulgence.

Relaxing in the manicure and pedicure boudoir, you can choose the Perrier Jouet luxury manicure for £45, luxury pedicure for £55 or combination package at £89.

Emma-Jane North, spa director at Y Spa told us “Y Spa is the only spa in the country able to offer this totally indulgent package. Perrier Jouet combined with wonderful manicures and pedicures offers total pleasure and these treatments are the ultimate gift for yourself or someone else!”

So sit back, relax and soak up the luxury and feel amazing!

0033 7007 667 www.wybostonlakes.co.uk

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Overweight?

It’s Not Your Fault David Hack an ex-military man has revealed how, in seven weeks, he succeeded in regaining a healthy and sustainable weight by making lifelong changes based on modern science and human evolution.

David told us –“Being fat is not your fault! It is our modern lifestyle, that makes us fat!” After growing up eating home cooked, healthy 'Mediterranean' foods, his bachelor lifestyle began to take its toll. Later, in middle age - and in the wake of some very traumatic incidents - David woke up one morning to find he had become clinically obese. On the precipice of a severe mid-life crisis, this was a sink or swim moment. Determined to claim back his health and in search for the true reasons behind his obesity, David enrolled at university to study biological sciences. It was during this time that he had his 'light bulb' moment – by studying human evolution and the diet of our earliest ancestors, he discovered how people are supposed to eat - a far cry from how most of us eat today. Putting his theory into practice and completely revising his relationship with food, David embarked on a journey back to an ideal weight and improved health.

The Back to Basics Diet is David's invitation to anyone who has ever struggled with their weight, or who has failed at 'quick fix' diets, to put themselves back in control of their own body. By following his down-to-earth, practical advice and completing his seven-week transition to a new way of eating and being active - underpinned by cutting-edge science -you will open the door to permanent weight loss and the chance of lifelong health.

Divided into two parts, The Back to Basics Diet begins by explaining the process of human evolution; here we see that we are designed to eat a mostly vegetarian diet, with smaller portions of healthy proteins and fats, such as fish, chicken, and olive oil. These real foods give us a huge boost of healthy nutrients - often sadly lacking in the 'processed sandwich' many of us grab on the run each day - and by eating these real foods at the right time of day it allows us to naturally control our calorie intake making hunger pangs a distant memory. Part two of the book contains the blueprint for David's diet and lifestyle program. Holding the reader's hand every step of the way and by using a detailed hour-by-hour guide, David offers a simple but structured approach to when and what we should be eating - brunch rather than an early morning breakfast - together with guidance on the optimal times we should be active and raising our heart rate. Complimented by simple, tasty recipes, motivational tips and tricks and some good old-fashioned common sense The Back to Basics Diet encourages readers to stop blaming themselves for being overweight instead inspiring us to put our own health first by taking those steps towards a happier and healthier life.

David’s academic studies, together with his own health and weight issues, eventually led him to write the “The Back to Basics Diet” priced at £9.99 and available from Amazon.co.uk

We have Three copies of David’s book to give away, if you would like to be in with the chance of winning one please tell us “The name of David’s Book” and send to affinitymagcomp@gmail.com - Good Luck! www.thebacktobasicsdiet.com

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Midlife Madness

I

More Pleasures Denied!

can accept as I get older that some things simply can’t be enjoyed in the way they were before, I think twice before getting on a roller coaster, jumping out of a plane, or into water deeper than 3 feet, or anything that might cause injury or pain or requires really sensible sturdy shoes!

seedy night clubs, your shoes seem to cling to it and need peeling from it before being clamped down again, like some spiderman that’s gone wrong. It’s not even the outrageous price of drinks and sweets, though I could go on about that too!

What upsets me is what appears to be a radical change in the censorship relating to the recommended ages of film certificates.

But one pleasure that I thought I would be able to continue enjoying for years to come is going to the cinema or ‘pictures’ - as I have always known it. I can still remember my early cinematic experiences, being terrified as a child by the wicked Queen in Snow White, loving Mary Poppins and graduating to a different cinema experience as a teenager, leaping into the arms of my then boyfriend during Jaws, and don’t even get me started on Carrrie as I can still have nightmares when I think of it, definitely should have sat in the back row on that occasion and not watched the movie.

I remember a time when I could generally cope with films that were not Disney or rom coms if they had a 15 cert.

But nowadays that has changed. To me the 15’s are now like 18s used to be, you have to have a strong stomach, nerves of iron and definitely never go with your parents unless you want to spend the whole time cringing.

I used to feel safe with a 15 but now I am all at sea, it seems they can have adult themes, sex and violence and swear words that I didn’t even know existed, all in a 15 rated film. I have to spend ages on my dictionary app when I get home just to work out what was happening!

Not so long ago I was persuaded to go and see an 18, against my better judgment I might add, but as I had read the book I let myself be persuaded, I knew what happened for goodness sake. But it’s just different isn’t it - reading about murder or serial killers is quite different from having it paraded in front of you in glorious technicolour with no cushions to hide behind!!

Then as a parent I got to enjoy it all again the Little Mermaid, Harry Potter and loads more, but of late my pleasure during these visits is undoubtedly diminishing.

Before you rush to any crazy conclusions, it’s not because I am now back to going with just my fella, we could enjoy the back row if we wanted to! But generally we go because we do actually want to watch the film, and apart from the cinema irritations that many will identify with, loud people, (the talkers, the crunchers, the ‘laugh just a little to muchers’) and the movers, they go out to the loo, to get more coke to visit a friend three rows behind, do …… .whatever. But why, they have paid to see a blooming movie yet insist on spending most of their time disturbing me!!

But what really upset me wasn’t the film, though I will confess to jumping a lot, screaming a little and grabbing the poor fella next to me (not the husband, the one on the other side) but he didn’t seem too worried by it. No what upset me was the trailers. Absolutely terrifying, all horrors and ghost stories and nasty looking weirdos and really scary music, in fact I surprised myself that I stayed for the main film, I think I was so traumatised I couldn’t get out of my seat.

Then of course there are the ‘luminaires’, those irritating people who insist on checking their phones every two minutes, texting or ‘tweeting’ which is much the same as constantly switching on a torch in a darkened room. If you can’t survive the two hours or so that it takes to watch a film without consulting your phone 300 times………. then just stay at home.

It’s not even the stickiness of the floor, reminiscent of

So Disneys and rom coms for me from now on, after all I don’t want to risk a heart attack.

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Sun Believable SCRUB ME Body Exfoliator £18, sun-believable.com

Retox Pamper Pack £7.50, ASOS

La Jara Tower Block Earrings £66, Cadenzza.co.uk

AFFINITY Iyla Satin and Lace Robe £49 houseofcb.com

Neoprene and Sequin Bag £4,705, CHANEL

Jo Malone Lime, Basil & Mandarin Diffuser £58, Jo Malone

HOT PICKS

Cadogan Silver Leather Boot £215 Russell & Bromley

Letter Bracelet in Silver or Gold £98 - £118 Biancajones.co.uk

Diptyque Rosafolia Candle £44, John Lewis

This month’s must have gifts and accessories

Kale Sweatshirt £31 Sub_Urban Riot

KISS Eyelashes £4.49, Superdrug

Dior Addict Lip Glow Color Awakening Lipbalm £23.50, Debenhams

Nails Inc Victoria Beckham Nail Polish £25, Selfridges

Cloudy Sky Scarf £75 Annewiggins.com

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Treatment of the Month

Elemis Pro-Intense Lift Effect Facial

T

he latest offering from the Y Spa is the Elemis Pro-Intense Lift Effect Facial, a 55 minute treatment that seriously puts sagging skin through its paces! Using powerful hands-on lifting massage techniques, combined with cutting edge stem cell technology, this facial promises ‘super lifting results’ after just one treatment. Quite simply amazing!

The treatment begins with the ‘Elemis Welcome Touch’ - Hot mitts infused with Lime Essential Oil that are used to cleanse the soles of your feet.

The facial then starts with the cleansing, toning and exfoliating of the face, as well as a massage using the skin plumping Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm.

After the thorough cleansing, Elemis’ Amber balm is massaged into the skin using deep massage techniques,

which consist of the application of firm pressure along the jaw line, across the cheeks, upwards and outwards to the temples. The therapist follows with a pressure massage around the mouth and the chin, repeating the technique to encourage intensive deep drainage along and under the jaw line.

Next The Pro Intense Lift Effect Jowl and Chin Mask is placed under the jawline and tucked under ears to hold in place.

Containing a mixture of Arjuna and Amber Massage Balm, this mask stimulates cell-communication and speeds up the absorption of powerful lifting plant actives into the skin, whilst creating a lifting and firming effect to the jaw line and chin.

This mask is left to work its magic for 20 minutes, whilst the therapist continues with an eye massage designed to open and lift before

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covering with a cooling Hydra-Active Soothing Gel Eye Mask which aims to plump and revitalize.

A scalp massage is then performed, allowing you to drift away into another world.

A second mask is then applied and the decollete massaged.

To complete this amazing facial, ProIntense Eye and Lip Contour Cream is applied and a layer of Pro-Collagen Lifting Treatment Neck and Bust is massaged across the neck and decollete.

And the verdict – My face definitely felt lifted and super firm and the skin was super hydrated, smooth and I looked Fabulous!!

Elemis Pro Intense Lift Effect Facial £85 for 55 minutes Y Spa 0333 7007 667 www.yspa.co.uk

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Let’s Meet……

F

rank Conroy is a highly t r a i n e d P l a s t i c , Reconstructive and Cosmetic Surgeon.

He graduated in medicine and surgery (MBChB) from The University of Leeds Medical School in 2000 and became a member of the Royal College of Surgeons in 2004.

Following this, he was selected for higher specialist training in Plastic, Reconstructive and Cosmetic surgery and was awarded the Intercollegiate Speciality Examination FRCS (Plast) in 2011.

Between 2005 and 2006 he was the Laser Research fellow at The Bedford Laser Unit, during which time he undertook research in Cutaneous Laser Applications. In 2012 he was awarded the prestigious Allergan® Breast Fellowship in Vancouver, Canada. During this time he specialised in complex breast reconstruction and revisional cosmetic breast surgery.

As a fully trained Plastic Surgeon, Frank Conroy is entered on the General Medical Council (GMC) specialist register for plastic surgery in the UK and Ireland. He is a full member of the Irish Association of Plastic Surgeons (IAPS) and the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS).

Frank publishes in the plastic surgery literature and has presented his work nationally and internationally at plastic surgery and scientific meetings.

He is a Consultant Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon at Bedford Hospital, Bedford, where his special interests are skin cancer, breast reconstruction, hand surgery and Laser treatments.

Mr Conroy operates privately at The Manor Hospital, Biddenham, Bedfordshire and Pine Hills Hospital, Hitchin, Hertfordshire. He is an approved consultant with all of the major health insurance companies.

Frank is happily married to his wife Cheryl and they have two young children Isobel & Max. During the few hours when Frank isn’t working you can find him on a golfcourse or fly fishing on a river somewhere.

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Just Her for

Lovelinks Bracelets from £39.95 Beads from £13.95 Millman Bedford

Kate Spade Novelty Hearts Metro Watch £175 WatchShop.com

Heart Locket Charm £550 Links of London

Silver Plated Champagne Love Flutes £64.95 Cuckooland.com

Spaniel Cashmere Scarf £42 Cuckooland.com

Valentine's Bracelet Folli Follie

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Viktor & Rolf Flowerbomb Limited Edition Perfume £73 Debenhams

Lots of Love £36.95 Lush Pr

Red Bag Folli Follie Vintage LOVE Mug £3.95 Dotcomgiftshop

Elemis Pro-Collagen Marine Cream Silver Edition £99 Debenhams

You and Me Necklace £59.95 Annabel James

Sophie Allport English Rose Scented Candle £20 Sophie

Pink & Black Floral Satin Wrap £10 George at Asda

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01234 763 930 fitnessfirst.co.uk

Newnham Avenue, Bedford MK41 9LW

FASHION

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Affinity

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B by Ted Baker £25 Debenhams

Fishnet Longline Bra £10, Briefs £4 Penneys Jesse Bra And Brief Set Boux Avenue

Red Devil Kelly Brook Balconette Bra £16.99. Briefs £7.99 New Look

Red Lace Lingerie £32 Marks & Spencer

Floozie by Frost French Debenhams

Floozie by Frost French Bra £20 Debenhams

Reger Noir from £28 Debenhams

Kelly Brook Babydoll £19.99 New Look

Marks & Spencer

Red Lace Set £10 Tu at Sainsburys

Ted Baker £30 Debenhams

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Anastasia Bra £19.50, Shorts £9.50 F&F

Bra & Brief Set £27 Marks & Spencer

Elena Bra £19.50 Thong £7.50 F&F Reger Noir From £25 Debenhams

Black Magic

Non Pad Bra & High Waist Briefs Marks & Spencer

Elena Basque £29.50 F&F

Collection £35 Marks & Spencer Lace Cupped Basque £14 Lace Shorts £5 George

Rio Bra & Knickers Marks & Spencer

Ribbon Detail Bra £6 Briefs £3 Heatons

Reger Noir Basque £45 Debenhams

£32 Lipsy

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B by Ted Baker £25 Debenhams

Collection Set £25 Marks & Spencer

Cream Floral Bra £14,99 Briefs £4.99 New Look

Floral Bra £12.99 Briefs £5.99 Debenhams

Flower Power Presence £22.50 Debenhams

Floral Bra and Briefs Set £22 BHS Kyoto Blues Floral Lingerie Set £18

Flower Collection £37.50 Marks & Spencer

Spirit Debenhams

Printed Cami £35, French Knickers £19.50 Marks & Spencer

Ted Baker £25 Debenhams

Silk Cami £39.50 Briefs £12.50 Marks & Spencer

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Bra £8, Shorts £4 George at Asda

Ebony Balconette Bra & Briefs Boux Avenue

Bra £54.95, Briefs £39.95 Calida

Tamara Lace Set Boux Avenue

Pretty in Pink Chantelle Boux Avenue

Chloe Plunge Bra & Briefs Boux Avenuejpg

Cherry Lingerie Set Evans Gorgeous Pink £22.50 Debenhams

Silk Teddy £59 Marks & Spencer

Valentine's Rose Set Evans

Dahilia Lurex Bra £16, Briefs £8 M&Co

Pink Lace Lingerie Set £22 BHS

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Learning the Secrets of Success

I

n addition to health and happiness, success is one of the things that most people would say they want. It might, of course, mean different things to different people and that is a very important fact. One person’s idea of success might be a highly paid job, with a fair degree of stress and long hours but that gives them a challenge or buzz and a status they enjoy. For others the idea of success may be a little different, some opt for a job that pays less but that they enjoy, maybe one with little stress, for others it might be the satisfaction of running their own business and for yet others its, maybe, devoting time to the family, studying at an advanced level or really excelling at a sport or hobby.

Success has definitions:

a

few

different

• The favourable or prosperous termination of attempts or endeavours; the accomplishment of goals • The attainment of wealth, position or honours • A performance that is marked by the attainment of honours

Always be yourself, express yourself, have faith in yourself, do not go out and look for a successful personality and try to duplicate it.

Bruce Lee Don’t aim for success, if you want it: just do what you love and believe in and it will come naturally.

David Frost

Don’t give up Almost all really successful folk have experienced failure. In many ways what separates the successful from the unsuccessful is the ability to cope with failure or setbacks. In the words of Henry Ford ‘Failure is simply the opportunity to begin again.’ It might not be easy but often it is through failure or setbacks that we learn and grow.

Success consists of going from failure to failure without loss of enthusiasm.

Winston Churchill

Get busy Success does sometimes come easily with little effort, but not often. Its’ relatively easy to have ideas, but to see them bear fruit usually requires action. That means making a 36

conscious decision to act in a particular way, do a certain something, even if it seems terrifying at first. Action is definitely required, sitting dreaming of success is all very well and dreaming, setting goals and visualising are all important but at some point, success usually means you have to move from the sofa.

Procrastination robs many people of their dreams, instead of worrying about what to do, or not and weighing up every single angle start doing! It’s amazing how a little action can actually bring a lot of clarity.

It had long since come to my attention that people of accomplishment rarely sat back and let things happen to them. They went out and happened to things.

Leonardo Da Vinci Get the right attitude Being positive seems vital to achieving success, sure there will be down days but a positive mental attitude and a belief in yourself and your abilities will mean that you are much more likely to succeed. If this is something that is difficult then take action to address this, examine where your negativity comes from. Is

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it from simply being overtired, or from negativity around you? Every successful person has had to learn to deal with the negative people they come across, people who would literally steal their dreams. If you want to be successful think carefully about how you deal with people who are negative. Maybe your negativity comes for false beliefs that you hold about yourself the ‘I’m no good’ syndrome, which may stem from experiences in your past but this too can be dealt with, and must be if you want that sweet taste of success.

Cherish yourself and those you love.

In order to make sure that you can keep going until you achieve success then you simply must look after yourself. There needs to be some sense of balance or you will not be able to stay the course. Time for yourself and for those you love is vital, after all success would probably

feel shallow if you had alienated those you loved in your pursuit of it.

It’s important to set priorities and identify some time when you can recharge your own batteries and spend time with those you care about. View this positively and it’s actually likely to help you succeed in the long run.

Develop the habits of success People who are successful share certain habits, they tend to be people who have ideas, take risks, interact with others, share ideas, network and don’t base what they do on the approval of others. There is a thought that successful people are proactive rather than reactive. If you find you spend all of your time ‘reacting’ – dealing with the next urgent issues, fighting fires, then maybe some support would help you to identify the things you need to work on 37

rather than just responding to the demands of others. Make sure you start your day right, that is a habit of many successful people. It’s also important to remember that sometimes you have to say ‘no’ even to things that might actually be of value. It links back to having a clear idea of what you want to achieve and then setting your own priorities.

As in so many areas of life self-belief is important and also a belief that you deserve success because you do.

For further information on any aspect of this or to find out what is stopping YOU from being successful contact Sheila on 07921193479 01234 349067 info@attunededucation.com www.attunededucation.com

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Affinity

FOOD & DRINK

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Valentine’s Play Package

The Arch London in Marylebone has the perfect hotel package for couples.

Priced at £359 per couple, per night, the package includes accommodation in one of the hotel’s boutique bedrooms. A secret intimacy box tied with ribbon is waiting to be discovered by guests, with a selection of high quality ‘Love’ products inside!

Couples will be indulged in chocolate covered strawberries and Champagne on arrival. A romantic three-course dinner is included in Hunter 486, which boasts a softly lit, intimate ambience and quietly glamorous décor.

The Play Package includes breakfast in bed, and a late checkout until 2pm to ensure a relaxing morning. www.thearchlondon.com

The Essential Daily Drink

B.Fresh is a delicious new range of vegetable and fruit juices bursting with goodness and maximum nutrition.

Each 250ml bottle, in eight different flavour combinations including cucumber, beetroot, kale, ginger, lime and carrot, contains the essential minerals and nutrients, with no added sugar, to nourish you throughout the day, at only £15 for six bottles and available from www.b-fresh.co.uk

FOODIE NEWS

Scottish craft spirits producer The Glasgow Distillery Company have announced the launch of a collection of one-off releases of aged Speyside single malts inspired by Greek mythology.

The first release in the collection is Prometheus, a 26-year-old Speyside single malt of secret origins that combines the smoky influence of peated barley with the wonderfully zesty and floral notes typical of this region.

Melt into Luxury Linnea – is the perfect destination for mouth-watering modern cuisine. This eatery based in Kew Green, London offers fine dining in a very relaxed and intimate atmosphere. Head chef / owner, Jonas Karlsson, is Michelin trained and is the former executive chef at Harvey Nichols 5th floor. Jonas combines seasonal British ingredients with a Swedish flare. Each dish on the menu is bursting with flavour and executed perfectly with exquisite presentation. www.linneakew.co.uk

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Winners of prestigious awards

Chef of the Year & Restaurant of the Year for the East Anglia Region

2014-2015

Spend Valentine’s with us!

Bookings now being taken

Here at Saffron Bedford, we are

passionate about authentic Indian cuisine. We create wonderfully fresh

and healthy dishes, prepared using only the finest ingredients and spices,

cooked in the traditional ways by our

highly-skilled chef. Come and sample the menu from our award-winning chef

of over 25 years experience, who’s passion

for

fine

dining

and

contemporary Indian cuisine makes

Saffron a premier dining experience.

We hope to see you soon!

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OLIVER’S

A Mouth Watering Treat at

A

t the heart of the picturesque Georgian village of Woburn, standing proudly at the gateway to the Woburn Abbey Estate, you will find The Woburn Hotel, one of Bedfordshire's finest country hotels, and within its doors you’ll find the multi-award-winning Oliver’s Restaurant.

Stylish elegance is immediately apparent and on arrival the welcome is extremely warm and inviting. Seating ourselves on the comfortable sofas in the drawing room for pre-dinner drinks, we studied the menu which was full of so many delicious sounding dishes it was difficult to make a choice.

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Choices finally made, we relaxed whilst enjoying our drinks and nibbles, before being taken through to the dining room to enjoy our meal.

Starters consisted of Tian of Beetroot and Goat’s Cheese (ratte potatoes, parmesan crisps, watercress and honey dressing), the combination of creamy goats cheese and crispy beetroot, layered like a cake was divine. Trio of Pan Fried Scallop, Crab Cannelloni and Crispy Squid (scallop with a lime syrup, crab with bisque, squid with garlic), was like eating fish straight from the sea - it was so fresh and tender; the presentation of both dishes was like a work of art, just perfect.

Pan Roasted Cod Supreme with Salt Cod “Brandade” chorizo and bean cassoulet, and Loin of Venison with a raspberry and chocolate sauce, celeriac rösti, roasted beetroot, curly kale and parsnip crisps were our mains. The chorizo and bean cassoulet combined with the chunky cod produced an amalgamation of flavours which were delightful. The venison was cooked exactly as requested; the flavour was strong without being overbearing - simply delicious.

Desserts included Granola, lemon and blueberry coupe, it was light and creamy with a strong taste of lemon deliciously refreshing on the palette. Homemade strawberry and raspberry ice cream was the other choice and certainly didn’t disappoint - the perfect end to an amazing meal.

I have to admit I have never eaten at Oliver’s before, but after our dining experience I will definitely be returning. With it’s contemporary surroundings, faultless presentation attentive service and delicious food - dining at Oliver’s is an experience not to miss.

Oliver’s Restaurant The Woburn Hotel 1 George Street, Woburn, Beds MK17 9PX 01525 290 441 www.thewoburnhotel.co.uk

Food Love

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of

Straight from the Heart £39 Hotel Chocolat

Charbonnelet Walker Pink Champagne Truffles £11 - £20 John Lewis Aux Anysetiers Du Roy White Chocolate & Raspberry Fondue £9.95 Harrods

Valentine's Goody Bag £18 Hotel Chocolat

Sweet Love Heart Tree £26.95 Cuckooland.com

Edinburgh Raspberry Gin £18 John Lewis

Love Message Biscit Card £10.95 Biscuiteers Baking Armand De Brignac Ace of Spades Rose Champagne £475 Harrods

Love Letter Giant Biscuit Card £20.50 Biscuiteers Baking

The Date Night In Package £29.50 Don't Buy Her Flowers

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Smoked Haddock and Celeriac Hotpot 46

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“

“

Comfort food doesn't get any better than this one-pot fish recipe that can also be frozen

Ingredients 50g unsalted butter 2 tbsp olive oil 1 celeriac (about 600g), diced 3 large potatoes, diced 2 large onions, finely sliced 250ml vegetable stock 600ml whole milk 200g sweetcorn kernels 800g undyed smoked haddock, pin bones removed 1 bay leaf Small handful chopped fresh flat leaf parsley

Method Heat the oil and butter in a large pan, gently fry the onion for 5 minutes until soft. Add the potato and celeriac to the pan, season and fry for 5-6 minutes, then add the stock, bring to the boil and cook for 5-10 minutes until tender.

Remove from the heat and leave covered.

Place fish in a large pan with a bay leaf, cover with the milk and bring to the boil. Once boiled turn off heat and leave for 5 minutes or until just cooked. Remove the fish from the pan and flake into large chunks, removing any skin.

Return the onion and veg mixture to a medium heat. Add the milk from the poached fish and the sweetcorn and gently simmer for 2-3 minutes, divide into bowls and add the fish. Sprinkle with the parsley and serve.

The Straw Hat Fresh and Fruity White wine. With an abundance of lush, juicy tropical notes, this fresh fragrant and fruity style perfectly complements most moods and occasions! The Straw Hat White is easy drinking, soft fruit and medium in style and delicious served chilled. £3.99, Tesco

Nottage Hill Cabernet Malbec Opaque ruby with a narrow rim in colour. Rich, blackberry, blackcurrant and dark chocolate with a hint of spice. Rich, mouth-filling flavours of blackberry and cassis with balanced fine grained tannins and a lingering finish. £8.99 Tesco

Arte De Argento Malbec Sourced from vineyards at the foothills of the Andes, this medium-bodied, fruit-driven Malbec offers concentrated aromas of blackberry and a hint of chocolate. Fresh flavours of black cherry and ripe red fruit are complemented by a touch of spice on the palate. Soft, silky tannins lead into a smooth, long finish £7.99, Tesco

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Tropical Pannacota

Ingredients

600ml double cream 250ml milk 100g sugar 1 pineapple, skinned, cored and sliced Juice and seeds from 2 passion fruit 3 sheets of gelatine (Icing sugar to taste)

Method

Put all the ingredients in a pan over a low heat and bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally.

Remove from the heat and blend until all the pineapple chunks are gone.

Push the mixture through a fine sieve.

Depending on the bitterness of your fruit, you may need to add some icing sugar to ensure a good sweetness.

Pour your mixture into serving glasses, or, as we have done in the photo, pour it into dariole moulds to be turned out later.

Set this in the fridge overnight.

Makes 6 - 8

This sweet is brought to you by the Chef The Millhouse Hotel and Riverside Restaurant, Sharnbrook, Beds 48

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Valentines at The Millhouse Friday 13th and Saturday 14th February Treat someone special £25 per person for 3 courses Booking is essential

Pancake Night

Tuesday 17th February £16 per person to include a main course and unlimited pancake desserts

Next Pudding Night

Friday 27th February £16 for a main course and as many delicious puddings as you can squeeze in

Millhouse Wedding Fair Sunday 8th March 10am - 4pm

Mothering Sunday Sunday 15th March 2 courses £16.95 3 courses £20.95

Including a gift for the Mothers

01234 781678 info@millhouse-riverside.co.uk www.millhouse-riverside.co.uk millhouse_hotel Millhouse Hotel and Riverside Restaurant Mill Road, Sharnbrook, Bedford MK44 1NP

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INTERIORS Affinity

marksandspencer

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50 SHADES of Green

Marble Print Cushion £19.50 Marks & Spencer

Rug Very

Mongolian Lambswool Cushion £119 Amara

Guaxs Glam Hurricane £225 Amara

Cushion £25 Marks & Spencer

Guaxs Cubistic Lamp £748 Amara

Birdcage £40 BHS

Wing Arm Chair £699, Footstool £299 Bennett

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Vases Debenhams

Cindy Occasional Chair £199 Very

Pure Lana Throw £414 Amara

Vase £25 House of Fraser

Roberts DAB Digital Radio £129 Very

Sofa Marks & Spencer

dotcomgiftshop

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Creature Comforts Diffuser £38 Kelly Hoppen

Bronte Hunting Tower Cushion £49.95 Amara

Jo Malone Cardamom & Moroccan Rose Candle £42 John Lewis

Ted Baker Gown £55 Debenhams

Our pick of the best winter warmers to keep you cosy

Spotted Throw £79 Marks & Spencer

Faux Fur Hot Water Bottle £22.50 White Stuff

Cable Knit Cushion £22 Next Penhaligons Assam Tea Candle £87 Amara

John Rocha Throw £100 Debenhams

John Rocha Slippers £20 Debenhams

Fox Mug £3.50 Next

feb2015.qxp_Jan 2014 Aff 21/01/2015 20:26 Page 55

Fry’s Footie Corner

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A

s we come to the end of the transfer window (at the time of writing), which closes at 11pm on 2nd February, so far hardly any movement has occurred, particularly in the Football League. Nine out of ten deals that are being done are loan deals. I think there are several reasons for this.

There are three clubs in the Championship that are already under a transfer embargo, Leeds United, Nottingham Forest and Blackburn Rovers are currently working under those restrictions, which have been implemented because of the new Financial Fair Play rules.

In our league, League One, clubs can only spend 60% of their income on player’s wages and because of this; most clubs need to get players out before they can get them in to balance the books. In League Two it is

even worse with just 50% of your turnover able to be spent in this way.

I can only speak as I find and this has been the most demanding, frustrating transfer window I have ever been involved in. Normally agents are rubbing their hands, with clubs at the last minute coming in for players and paying astronomical transfer fees for their services, but I can’t see this happening this time around.

There appears to be some sanity coming into the Football League where the league has tried to impose these sanctions to protect clubs against themselves and to stop them spending more than they have.

Although it is good for the clubs in the long term, I can see a lot of players finding themselves on the scrapheap because so many are cutting their cloth 58

accordingly. Agents most of all, must come to realise if they haven’t already that the market place is not as lucrative as it once was.

What amazes me with players and experienced players at that, is that their agent has got so much power over those individuals. They run their lives and are so controlling over the players’ destiny. I would of thought that these players need to understand the change in football and start making their own decisions. At the end of the day the clubs want to sign the players, not their agents.

Football needs to change.

Agents need to change and players’ need to change because Financial Fair Play is taking hold.

Enjoy the month.

Barry Fry

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Just Him for

Aagaard Bracelets from £46.00 All beads £ 19.50 Millman, Bedford

Fornasetti Tie 375 Amara

Ted Baker Hip Flask £39.95 Cuckooland.com

Ciroc Vodka £49.95 Harrods

Le Nez Du Whisky 54 Aromas £295 Harrods Ted Baker Pocket Front Briefcase £115 House of Fraser

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Graf Von Faber Castell Cufflinks with Citrine Stone £190 Amaraamara

Classic Tour Watch £179 Etiqus

Burberry London Leather Folding Wallet £220 Harrods Penhaligons Gentlemens Fragrance Collection £30 Selfridges

Union Jack Record Player £79.95 Cuckooland.com

Ralph Lauren Polo Shirt £110 House of Fraser

All About...

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Natasha Trudgill

"We catch up with Natasha Trudgill the Sales and Marketing Manager at the Bedford Swan Hotel who has just won a South of England award for her innovative approach to winning customers."

Age: 33 (Shhhhh!)

Occupation: Sales Mogul at The Bedford Swan Hotel Describe yourself in three words?

Upbeat, Passionate, Unorthodox

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

At the moment, a bottle of champagne, some cheese and half a tub of olives- Gillian McKeith would be livid with me!!

What makes you stand out in a crowd?

Lots of lip gloss and normally a tray of shots!

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

Churchill, not the nodding dog from the insurance adverts, the Prime Minister who saw us through WWII. What would I say to him?.... ‘Tell me everything!’

Your top three movies?

Ooh, there are too many! Let’s go with The Prestige, The Goonies and Usual Suspects What do you do to relax?

Turn off every gadget and communication device I own, take my puppy for a long walk and just hide from the world for an afternoon.

If you were a biscuit what would you be and why?

A Jaffa cake….. is it a biscuit that thinks it’s a cake or a cake that thinks it’s a biscuit?! Who knows, who cares, it plays by its own rules, but everyone’s got time for a Jaffa cake.

Your most extravagant purchase and why?

A shiny new convertible Mini Roadster with every unnecessary extra on it you could possibly imagine, impulsively, straight off the show room floor. Why?..... I deserved it!

Who is your inspiration/role model?

My mum, the strongest women Ive ever met and beautiful inside and out….. Outside mainly due to the fact that she steals my make up, but we’ll let that one go for now ☺

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

Me, but retired, filthy rich and living on a Caribbean island.

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

Probably the ipad, its got all the benefits of a full on computer without the commitment of having to sit in one place and fits in to my handbag.

Describe your ideal man?

Funny, intelligent, sociable, considerate, will give me a run for my money and is almost as good looking as I am!

As luck would have it, he’s at home at the mo, making the dinner!

Where do you see yourself in ten years?

In Harley Street having fillers!

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

Bottle of Malbec, a stereo and ‘Fella’ my little Cockapoo (he’d wreck the house while I’m gone otherwise!)

What would your last meal be?

Depends what time of the day it was - I’d struggle with a roast dinner in the morning. Wait….. why is it my last meal?..... am I being executed?... having a gastric bypass?! … All this makes a difference, I need more info to make an informed choice!

What would you do if you had a time machine?

Probably just put it on ebay- I don’t see the point in going backwards and it should be a good little earner for my shoe fund.

What actor would you have play you in a film and why?

Probably Drew Barrymore - she’s got the same silly little nose as me!

You can’t leave the house without and why?

My inhaler (unfortunately) – damn you asthma!

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Roll out the Rolls

R

foundations: pinnacle products, dedicated people and a commitment to ensuring a balanced global sales picture.”

Sales were driven by strong orders for Ghost Series II, launched in November, and Wraith, which enjoyed its first full year of sales, while the incomparable Phantom remains the company’s pinnacle product.

olls-Royce Motor Cars last month revealed record sales results for a fifth consecutive year, with 4,063 cars sold globally during 2014. This exceptional result means that sales have more than quadrupled since 2009.

The best-selling Rolls-Royce dealership in 2014 was Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Abu Dhabi. As part of the marque’s commitment to long-term sustainable growth, six new dealerships were opened in 2014, including Mexico City, Calgary, Canada and Gold Coast, Australia. A total of 127 dealerships are now in operation and further expansion is planned for 2015.

Torsten Müller-Ötvös, Chief Executive Officer, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars said, “This fifth consecutive record year saw Rolls-Royce Motor Cars break through the 4,000 car sales level for the first time in its 111-year history. The result confirms that our strategy of balanced, sustainable and profitable growth is delivering and that Rolls-Royce remains the world’s leading luxury goods brand. This extraordinary success has been built on strong

Bespoke Collections including Waterspeed, Pinnacle Travel and Metropolitan, and unique creations such as the Maharaja Phantom Drophead Coupé contributed to Rolls‑Royce sustaining its leadership of the industry in the area of individualisation. In 2014, Rolls‑Royce once again sold more cars in the +Euros 200,000 net segment than any other manufacturer.

64

2014 also marked the first year in which every Phantom, and the great majority of Ghost and Wraith models, left the Home of Rolls-Royce at Goodwood in West Sussex, England with significant Bespoke personalisation. A record number of customers spent personal one-on-one time with Rolls-Royce’s Bespoke design consultants commissioning their personalised vehicles.

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To meet such strong demand, particularly for Bespoke cars, the company has created over 200 new permanent jobs in the past 18 months. More than 1,500 people are now employed at the Home of Rolls-Royce.

Further evidence of Rolls-Royce’s commitment to expansion in Great Britain came in September when the company announced plans for its new Technology and Logistics Centre at Bognor Regis, close to Goodwood. Construction of the new 30,000m2 facility, which is due to open in 2016, is well underway and around 200 new and existing staff in technical and logistics roles will be employed at the Centre.

Business Secretary, Vince Cable said, “Rolls-Royce motor cars are famous throughout the world with increasing numbers now exported abroad. The skill and dedication of its workers here in Britain has led to another very successful year.

“The UK’s automotive industry is thriving with a new car rolling off the production line every 20 seconds, and increasing levels of investment that’s helping to secure local jobs. Through our industrial strategy we are backing companies like Rolls-Royce Motor Cars as they go from strength to strength, giving them the right environment to invest with confidence and create high-skilled jobs”.

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TRAVEL

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Affinity

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Yoga Retreat at

Francis Ford Coppola’s Palazzo Margherita F

rancis Ford Coppola's Palazzo Margherita, will be hosting their first ever Yoga Retreat this May.

Indulge in the bounty of food, wine, historical sites and vistas that the idyllic setting of Palazzo Margherita provides, while practicing yoga, with daily classes from instructor Laurel Attanasio at the exquisitely restored retreat. The package encompasses a five night stay with daily yoga classes, access to bicycles for leisurely rides, a hands-on pasta making experience, a hands-on pizza making class, an excursion to the UNESCO world heritage site of Matera and more.

The location offers an experience of life untouched by tourism, the perfect setting to relax and unwind. Situated in the charming town of Bernalda, the birthplace of Francis’s grandfather, Agostino Coppola, the authentic 19th century palazzo has been completely renovated in partnership with acclaimed French designer Jacques Grange. The Palazzo offers a luxurious yet authentic Italian experience where guests can enjoy palatial comfort just steps from an exciting town in which the visitor feels like a friend or neighbour rather than a tourist. The intimate resort has seven large suites and two garden rooms. Each is a work of art with fresco ceilings and features a palatial bathroom and amenities, including luxurious linens, fresh flowers and state-of-the-art technology. Many of the rooms feature a large terrace and/or a Juliette Balcony and face the charming gardens within the Palazzo walls.

For a truly unique experience, why not stay in Suite Nine, Francis’s own room - which integrates subtle elements of Tunisian design, with a fully-furnished terrace overlooking the garden and courtyard. The style is intended to honour Francis’s Tunisian born grandmother, Maria Zasa, making it a really unique property. A striking tiled fireplace and an anteroom with a large writing desk add to the regal splendour of this suite. A luxurious bathroom includes a clawfoot bathtub. Walls and high ceilings feature beautifully restored painting and frescos. The room Lisa Limer features a full backlog of Francis Ford Coppola’s films.

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From May 17th – May 22nd 2015 Rates start from £2611 for a Garden Room per person and include: Daily Yoga Classes taught by Laurel Attanasio Yoga mats provided for classes.

Personalized seasonal welcome drink.

A welcome event including a rich Southern Italian Aperitivo.

A farewell event including an Arrivederci Dinner

Gundolf Pfontenhauer

Pasta lesson, which will include a light meal of tasting what was made.

Continental and local breakfast which includes homemade patisserie, fresh local cheeses, Lucanian cold cuts as well as seasonal fruits and juices Bicycles for use around town; Tours can be arranged, upon request.

Excursion to Matera with professional guided tour + time to shop and dine on your own.

Excursion to Rionero with professional guided tour and wine tasting and light lunch with yoga at Monticchio Lakes.

Beautiful & comfortable accommodations at the Palazzo.

Gundolf Pfontenhauer

Complimentary Santa Maria Novella Bath Product Gift Package.

Outdoor swimming pool surrounded by a pleasantly scented hedge of jasmine.

Historical Garden protected by the Italian Cultural Heritage Department.

Beautiful Salon where you can enjoy classical Italian movies personally selected by Mr. F F Coppola.

Two private bars (Pool Bar and Family Bar) and one Bar Bistro'.

Amazing Kitchen where guests can dine in 'family style' and live the preparation of the meals in very close contact with the Chef Tommaso and his staff.

Tim Beddow Wi-Fi available in the whole property.

Apple TV. In-room beverages stocked daily: still and sparkling water, Coke, Nastro Azzurro beer, San Pellegrino orange juice, Ace juice, peach juice.

International newspapers.

With the serenity, dramatic backdrop, first-class service and eco-friendly exploration, this is the perfect place to relax, unwind and discover the natural wonders of the world.

Tim Beddow

www.coppolaresorts.com

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Relax and Indulge

T

he month of February can mean only one thing to loved up couples everywhere – Valentines Day!

followed this leaving us feeling relaxed, refreshed and rejuvenated – pure indulgence.

So with all this talk of LOVE how about spending some relaxing quality time with your partner, away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life!

A two course buffet lunch followed our treatment and then a little lounging by the pool until it was time to check into our room.

For the singletons amongst us why not spend time with your mum, sister, daughter, or bestie - just because it’s Valentines Day doesn’t mean it has to be all about romance, it can be about spending quality time with someone you love.

Our room included luxury toiletries from ESPA and, once unpacked and refreshed, we headed down to dinner in the hotels award winning fine dining restaurant Murray’s.

A table was reserved in the lounge for us to browse the menu and have pre-dinner drinks and canapés before being led into the intimate and beautifully decorated restaurant. A selection of homemade breads began our meal followed by Tea smoked duck, Cornish crab, Banham chicken breast, and Spring lamb loin presentation of the dishes was a work of art and the combination of flavors within each dish was delightful.

Dessert was lemon meringue and chocolate pudding, again just perfect. Dinner was followed by coffee and homemade petit fours! Service was outstanding and the dining experience was absolutely wonderful!

We decided to try out Whittlebury Hall and Spa in Towcester for a “Deluxe Spa Stay” Facilities include stimulating Heat and Ice experiences, soothing therapies and ancient bathing rituals all designed to let you unwind and escape.

Our day began with us enjoying the heat and ice experiences, which are set around a hydrotherapy pool.

Experiences include a salt steam room, sauna, an ice cave, and sanarium. All designed to build your body temperature up gradually and then quickly cool it back down, allowing your body to experience sensations brought on by dramatic changes in temperature.

The Deluxe Spa Stay includes a 50 minute Hot Stone Back, Face, Scalp and Shoulder Massage. This is a deeply relaxing and highly personalised massage. It includes a full back and front massage using the stones, gently soothing aching muscles, eliminating toxins and calming mind and body, the most amazing face and scalp massage

After retiring to our room and a restful nights sleep, a hearty breakfast was eaten leaving us ready to face the reality of everyday life once again.

The Deluxe Spa Stay is from £159 per person and ideal for spending quality time with your partner, whilst leaving you feeling rejuvenated and refreshed.

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www.whittleburyhall.co.uk

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Explore your sensuality this Valentines with the exclusive 210th Closer Together Package at myhotel Chelsea "Intimacy is one of the most beautiful given things in the world." myhotel Chelsea is a design led boutique hotel that strikes a balance between traditional and contemporary, promising its guests elegant pleasures, personal attention and contemporary style. Based within strolling distance of the fashionable borough's eateries, clothing stores and mustsee sights, the hotel boasts a prime location for exploring London and now thanks to the 210th Suite - exploring each other.

210th, the luxury lifestyle brand that is dedicated to the art of seduction, has partnered with myhotel Chelsea to create the first ever 210th Suite. 210th offers an exclusive line of luxurious, beautifully designed boxes offering you and your partner scintillating challenges with luxurious erotic accessories.

Once you open the door of the 210th suite a special, seductive atmosphere awaits you.

Dominated by dark and muted colours, a bespoke Pamper Me print by Brenda de Vries from the 210th Art Collection adorning the wall and of course, the bed - with indulgent and inviting black fur throws – it is clear this suite is made for lovers.

And let's not forget the 210th box.

Containing luxury adult toys including black satin blindfolds and envelopes with sensual experiences to explore with one another, such as drawing each other naked or making love in silence - there is nothing that could distract from the purpose of this special suite: allowing two people to seduce each other and enjoy a night of passion and sensuality.

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Sofie Rockland, founder 210th

The Closer Together Valentines package at myhotel Chelsea takes this intimacy to the next level with a complimentary 210th Massage Candle for the ultimate seduction.

Once lit, let it burn until a small pool of warm massage oil is created, extinguish the flame and drip the oil gently onto the skin of your loved one for a truly sensational and memorable massage. What follows only the two of you will know....

Breakfast will also be brought up to the room so you can enjoy more time in bed together.

“The philosophy of 210th to seduce each other, to pay attention to each other, fits seamlessly with myhotel - as they also love to seduce their guests with their attention to detail and by treating everyone as an individual”, explains Sofie Rockland, founder and creator of luxury brand 210th.

Together with Linda Kay Stevens, artist, they went about designing the suite. “Our guests have welcomed this unique concept – beautiful surroundings and a beautiful time” says Joanne Hare, Deputy Manager, myhotel Chelsea.

210th Closer Together Valentine’s Package in the 210th Suite at myhotel Chelsea is available on 13th and 14th February at a fixed rate of £499 per night.

Package includes the 210th box, 210th massage candle, and breakfast in bed www.myhotels.com

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E

the bittersweet tale of a boy left alone and unfinished in a strange new world.

It is a parable for our times about the ultimate outsider.

dward Scissorhands became a cult movie and now stands every chance of becoming a cult ballet. This results from the mix of Matthew Bourne's choreography, his sense of humour, a strong story line and powerful imagery.

The ending is both poignant and tragic following that of the original, as does much of the music, though Terry Davies gives it a mix of jazz and rock 'n' roll to enhance the Bourne-style dance.

The film starred Johnny Depp as a classic misfit who is destined to remain an outsider forever; Winona Ryder as Kim, the girl that he worships rather than loves; and even had Vincent Price to inject an element of Hammer Gothic.

The start of this version presents a very different back story as Edward seemingly emerges, almost complete, from the grave, Bourne takes a fresh new look at this modern fairytale, which will be revitalised for a whole new generation of dance lovers and theatregoers.

Matthew Bourne's choreography allows the story to come through strongly. It reaches its most spectacular at a Christmas Ball.

This is a show for lover’s of dance, musicals, film and everything in between.

Milton Keynes Theatre 0844 871 7652 www.atgtickets.com/miltonkeynes

This touching and witty love story tells

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ON! What’s

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February 2015

Weds 14th January – Sun 6th September The Railway Children King’s Cross Theatre, London Mike Kenny's Olivier Award-winning stage adaptation of the hugely popular novel by E Nesbit plays at a purpose built 1000-seat theatre, which comes complete with a railway track and platforms, and features a live 60-tonne steam locomotive and Gentleman’s Carriage. www.officiallondontheatre.co.uk

Sat 7th February Heart to Heart Psychic Fair 8pm – 11pm Forest of Marston Vale The annual Psychic Fair returns, with Reiki, tarot, mediums, spiritual gifts, gemstones, raffle and way, way more - £3 entry

Sun 8th February Valentine’s Craft Fair with Live Music 2pm – 6pm The Picture Drome, Northamptonshire Up to 20 stalls of beautiful handmade gifts made by local crafters with love, for people you love. Also talented local musicians will keep you entertained throughout. Crafts include jewellery, decorated boxes, painted signs, clothing, soap and bath-bombs, decorated glassware, hand blown glass items, crochet and cakes and preserves. There will also be a Tarot card reader and a photographer.

Thurs 29th January – Sat 23rd May Di And Viv And Rose Vaudeville Theatre, London First staged at Hampstead in 2013, Tamzin Outhwaite, Samantha Spiro and Jenna Russell star in the West End transfer of Amelia Bullmore’s hilarious and thoughtful exploration of friendship’s impact on life and life’s impact on friendship. www.officiallondontheatre.co.uk

Sat 14th February Valentine’s Night The Embankment, Bedford Valentines day is an evening for a candlelit table, with exceptional food and beautiful wine. Our Head Chef has created a sumptuous 5 Course Menu with a Glass of Fizz on arrival to make your evening as special as possible. After that, you’re on your own £45 per person, pre-booking required.

Call the Team 01234 261332 or email embankment@peachpubs.com

Thurs 5th February Sam’s Seasonal Masterclass – Game The Embankment, Bedford The first of our head chef Sam’s series of master classes.

The winter season allows us to sample the best in local Game from beautiful Pheasant to rich Venison.

Enjoy an informative and interesting butchery demonstration with Head Chef Sam as he shows us how to prepare and cook some of Bedfordshire’s best produce.

4 courses including wine £40pp.

This is a night not to be missed and booking is essential.

To RSVP, call the team on 01234 261332

Saturday 14th February Valentine’s Night Bruno Mars Tribute Night 7.30pm – 1.00am Wyboston Lakes Hotel A Valentine's memory to 'Treasure' forever • Entertainment from tribute act Bruno to Mars To include a Three course dinner and disco £44.95 per person (includes event ticket, a three course dinner, glass of Champagne and canapés) 0333 7007 667 (option 4) quoting POS www.wybostonlakesbookings.co.uk

Fri 6th February Kempston Hammers Community Choir 7.30pm Cardington Village Hall, Bedford Kempston Hammers Community Choir, in period dress, lead a community singalong featuring songs of the war. Join us for an evening of fun with full audience participation, feel free to dress in WW1/WW2 attire. Light refreshments will be available. £5 per person 01234 838978 or 01234 838732

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Sunday 15th February Maslenitsa Russian Festival Trafalgar Square, London

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Enjoy a fun, FREE family day out at the Maslenitsa Russian folk festival in Trafalgar Square. Marking the end of winter, Maslenitsa combines a Russian Orthodox religious celebration with an older pagan festival welcoming the arrival of spring.

During the festival, Trafalgar Square is transformed into a large entertainment zone with live music, children’s shows and dancing. Watch as folk musicians and entertainers perform traditional Russian songs and dances, with plenty of audience interaction.

Sample delicious Russian food, such as beef stroganoff, borscht (beetroot soup) and blini (pancakes), from the stalls set up on Trafalgar Square.

With a bustling bazaar and craft activities to also get involved in, this mini festival offers all the best in Russian culture in one handy London location.

bookings for guests taking advantage of the exclusive show offers.

Exclusive presentations throughout the day which are packed with inspiration and practical advice to help you find your perfect holiday.

Spaces for the presentations are limited so reserve your place today to avoid disappointment on the day FREE Entry To register call: 01234 326758 www.selecttravelgroup.co.uk/show

Thurs 12th March An Audience with Mica Paris The Stables Theatre Ltd, Wavendon, Milton Keynes Mica Paris, one of the most successful UK soul artists, will be performing some of her classic hits as well as songs from her newly released album. Mica has had huge success since bursting onto the music scene at 19 with her debut album, which later went platinum. Her new album has been a much anticipated release after So Good, a deluxe double album re-issue of the original album with expanded bonus material. In addition to the performance there are 25 higher-priced tickets for a Meet and Greet opportunity with Mica for autographs and photos. Meet and Greet will include a CD which you can have personally signed by Mica on the day. £27 per person, Limited number of 'Meet and Greet' tickets also available 01908 280800 stables@stables.org

Sat 21st February Blunham Book Sale 10am – 3.00pm Blunham Parish Church A selection of second hand and nearly new books, home made cakes, teas and coffees, home made soup, bread and a raffle.

All proceeds to Blunham Church Fabric Fund

Tues 24th February – Sat 13th June Beautiful – The Carole King Musical Aldwych Theatre, London The untold story of the legendary singer's journey from school girl to superstar. An ordinary girl with an extraordinary talent, King fought her way into the record industry as a teenager. By the time she was 20 she was writing number ones for the biggest acts in rock ‘n’ roll but her greatest challenge was to find her own voice and finally step into the spotlight. www.officiallondontheatre.co.uk Weds 25th February Winter Wedding Fair Forest of Marston Vale A chance to view the Forest Centre as your potential wedding venue, with stalls from local suppliers and, hopefully, lots of inspiration for your big day! Book now to receive your goodie bag on arrival - call us on 01234 762615 or email sam.hayden@marstonvale.org Sat 28th – Sun 1st March Handmade and Vintage Fair Middleton Hall, Centre:mk A treasure trove of 120 carefully selected stalls, showcasing the most original, high quality & affordable designers & vintage/retro/antique sellers, this event is quite a spectacle. If you love a unique style & the thrill of the bargain hunt, it's the place to shop in this region – just allow yourself a good few hours to explore it all! * Fashions * Accessories * Homewares * Furniture * Collectables * Jewellery *China * Interior Design * Memorabilia * Record Players, Vinyl & Jukeboxes * Original Art - all one-offs!

Sun 8th March Cruise Select's Cruise & Travel Show 2015 - 10.00am to 3.00pm Wyboston Lakes Executive Centre There will be a host of exhibitors ranging from cruise and river cruise lines to land based tour operators.

The Cruise Select team will also be available throughout the day to answer any questions you may have and to make

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A quiet night in...

Descent by Tim Johnston

The Rocky Mountains have cast their spell over the Courtlands, a young family from the plains taking a last summer vacation before their daughter begins college. For eighteen-year-old Caitlin, the mountains loom as the ultimate test of her runner’s heart, while her parents hope that so much beauty, so much grandeur, will somehow repair a damaged marriage. But when Caitlin and her younger brother, Sean, go out for an early morning run and only Sean returns, the mountains become as terrifying as they are majestic, as suddenly this family find themselves living the kind of nightmare they’ve only read about in headlines or seen on TV. As their world comes undone, the Courtlands are drawn into a vortex of dread and recrimination. Why weren’t they more careful? What has happened to their daughter? Is she alive? Will they ever know? Caitlin’s disappearance, all the more devastating for its mystery, is the beginning of the family’s harrowing journey down increasingly divergent and solitary paths until all that continues to bind them together are the questions they can never bring themselves to ask: At what point does a family stop searching? At what point will a girl stop fighting for her life?

Fifty Shades of Grey The risque publishing sensation about a kinky relationship springs to life on the big screen.

Virginal student Anastasia Steele (Dakota Johnson) goes to interview wealthy, handsome, charismatic entrepreneur Christian Grey (Jamie Dornan). The attraction between them is immediate and electric. But Ana learns that Christian is only interested in a relationship on his own controlling terms. As they embark on an intense and passionate affair, he introduces her to his dark and very particular tastes. Now she finds herself exploring her own desires for the first time. Having sold more than 90 million copies in e-book and print, E.L. James's worldwide bestseller is a genuine publishing phenomenon.

Release Date: 13th February A Walk Among the Tombstones A heroin trafficker whose wife was abducted and murdered hires a haunted private investigator to track down the men who killed her in this brooding crime drama starring Liam Neeson. Matt Scudder (Neeson) was an NYPD cop having a quiet drink in a Washington Heights bar when a pair of armed robbers came in guns blazing. Giving chase, Scudder kills the robbers in the street, though a stray bullet turns a heroic moment tragic. Devastated, Scudder subsequently goes to work as an unlicensed private detective, working just outside of the law and surviving on generous gifts offered in exchange for his services. Now, tasked with rooting out the sadistic thugs who brutally murdered the wife of a wealthy drug dealer (Dan Stevens), Scudder scours the bars and back alleys of New York City in search of his elusive targets -- and the closer he gets, the more apparent it becomes that they are something much more sinister than your typical kidnappers.

Release Date: 26th January 78

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Affinity

Wedding Showcase Sunday 22nd March 2015 - Bedford Corn Exchange Sunday 26th April 2015 - Wyboston Lakes Hotel 11am - 3pm

FREE entry, bubbles, canapés and goodie bag plus a free copy of Affinity Weddings Magazine for all Brides!

Exclusive Fashion Shows

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The Corn Exchange

Great North Road Wyboston Beds, MK44 3AL

St. Paul’s Square, Bedford, MK40 1LE

Everything you need for the perfect wedding all under one roof affinityweddingmag@gmail.com

07507 602401

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Forever Love Collection Real love lasts forever

AFFINITY LUXURY LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

FEBRUARY 2015 ISSUE 45

FREE www.affinitymag.co.uk

February 2015

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