Feb2016

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AFFINITY LUXURY LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

FREE www.affinitymag.co.uk

February 2016

Scentsational Our favourite new fragrances FEBRUARY 2016 ISSUE 57

Look of LOVE Gorgeous gifts for her Sit and stay healthy

Live your dreams We show you how

Yes you can with our simple excercises

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Welcome...

Hi Everyone pairs of tickets to giveaway for this soulsational show turn to page 36 to find out how you can win.

So that’s goodbye to January and hello to the month of Loooove February. This year it’s a leap year, which traditionally means ladies you can propose to your man!!

If you do decide to get down on one knee and ask the all-important question “Will you marry me?” we’d love to hear from you.

Finally whether you’re married, in a relationship or single there is plenty of love and friendship to go around the whole year not just on 14th February – Remember it’s all about having fun, so go out and do just that.

We have some gorgeous lingerie for you ladies whether you want to hint to your other half or treat yourself, you’ll be spoilt for choice (page 27) and if you’re like me you’ll have one of each!!!

Until next month Lots of LOVE

Fancy escaping on a romantic break? We pay a visit to the beautiful Bauer Palazzo Hotel in the historic city of Venice; with its rooftop Jacuzzi overlooking the city and delicious gourmet food you won’t want to leave (page 66).

Jane x

We love a bit of soul and straight from Broadway is the new stage sensation “Soul Legends” coming to The Grove Theatre in Dunstable next month (March). We have 2

Cover Image: Dorothy Perkins

Editor: Jane Fry jane@affinitymag.co.uk 01234 962106 - 07507 602401 Advertising: Gwen D’Souza affinitymaggwen@gmail.com 07506 770554 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

12 Sit and Stay Healthy 14 Beauty Updates 19 Hot Picks

22 Gifts She’ll Love 32 Style Stripes 40 Chicago Chic

44 Foodie News 46 Tasty Thai 49 Sophisticated Bubbles

54 58 63 68 72

Gold Rush Snuggle Up Return of the Mac Little Zebra is Here Your Stars

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Ltd Very affordable true HANDLELESS GERMAN kitchens now in store

Forget the sales hype just give us a try, you WILL be pleasantly surprised

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Sit & Stay Healthy

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Action Breathe in wide to expand the lower ribcage

Think you haven’t got enough time to do Pilates, think again! Whilst it’s great to do an hour’s class, you can get real benefits from doing a few minutes a day……..even at your desk.

Breathe out as you gently squeeze your back passage as if trying to prevent passing wind and bring this feeling forward to your pubic bone. Then gently draw these muscles up inside like an internal zip. This action engages your deep core muscles, which support your spine. As you do this gently but firmly, press down through the back of each hand and lengthen up and away through your spine.

We spoke to Lynne Robinson, Founder of Body Control Pilates, and author of Pilates For Life, for her top tips on what moves are the most effective for staying in shape (whilst taking a break from the computer screen).

“To keep yourself feeling fit and healthy, why not set yourself the goal of doing 5 minutes Pilates at your desk whenever you get a break? If you’ve time for coffee, you’ve time for Pilates! Even though you are only doing 5 minutes, you need to focus, and do the exercises mindfully. Then try to retain what you’ve learnt with you as you move around the office.”

Breathe in and hold this lengthened position, breathe out and relax but do not collapse - Repeat up to 8 times

Watchpoints Keep your collarbones wide and open as you press down.

Do not arch your back.

1. Hand Press

2. The Dumb Waiter with Neck Turn

This simple action is incredibly useful as it can be done discreetly anytime and anywhere (as long as you are sitting down). It will help you find the axial length of your spine.

Great for opening the front of the chest if you have been hunched over your computer. Of course, this can also be done standing.

Starting Position - Sit or stand tall. Hold your arms as if you are holding a tray, palms facing upwards and your elbows close into your waist.

Starting Position - Sit tall on your chair. Weight even on both sitting bones, spine long with its natural curves. Feet hip-width apart and parallel (if your feet do not comfortably reach the floor then use a few books/step under them). Place the back of each hand on the top of each thigh, fingers pointing inwards.

Use your core connection (internal zip) as, when and if you need it to control your alignment and movements.

Action Breathe in wide and lengthen up through the spine. Now take your right hand out to the side, keeping the upper

Use your core connection (internal zip) as, when and if you need it to control your alignment and movements.

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part of the arm close into your side. Simultaneously turn your head to the left.

For this exercise to work, you need to be sitting at your desk on a swivel chair.

Breathe out as you bring the arm and head back to centre.

Repeat five times to each side.

Starting Position - Sit tall on your swivel chair, with your weight evenly balanced on both sitting bones. If feasible, place your feet together resting on the legs of the chair (this will depend on the type of chair … you may have to improvise and hold your feet together just off the floor ... if this is the case, you will have to use your abdominals more). Hold the desk in front of you with your hands just wider than shoulder-width apart, palms down.

Watchpoints Rotate the arm outwards, initiating the movement from the top of the upper arm.

Do not pinch the shoulder blades together.

Use your core connection (internal zip) as, when and if you need it to control your alignment and movements.

Keep the distance between the ears and the shoulders Keep the hand in line with the wrist in line with the elbow…do not drop the tray.

Action Breathe into the ribcage and lengthen up through the spine. Breathe out keeping your upper body still and facing the front, rotate your lower body with the chair. You may twist as far as you are comfortable, as long as your upper body remains squarely facing forwards.

Turn the head on a central axis. If you keep your eye line on the same level as you turn, you should avoid tipping the head back, forward or sideways!

3. Seated Side Reach

Stretches and works the waist muscles.

Breathe in and slowly, with control, twist back to the starting position. Repeat five times each way.

Starting Position - Sit tall on your chair, near the front of the seat, with your feet firmly placed hip-width apart on the floor. Feel evenly balanced on both sitting bones.

Watchpoints Rotate around your central axis - imagine your spine from the tailbone to the crown of your head as a long pole which will keep its natural curves but which is fully lengthened.

Use your core connection (internal zip) as, when and if you need it to control your alignment and movements.

Action Breathe in and raise one arm out to the side and above your head. The arm stays slightly in front of you. Ensure that you do not hunch the shoulder up.

Keep the distance between your shoulders and your ears, shoulder staying open. Keep the inner thighs together.

5. Seated Knee Crosses

We are targeting the hip joints here, mobilising them gently. In normal circumstances we would not advocate sitting with your legs crossed but this is an exception! The key here is to stay upright and not sink down as your knee crosses over.

Breathe out and lengthen through the crown of the head to reach to the upper corner of the room, laterally bending the spine. Keep anchoring through both sitting bones.

Breathe in to the sides of your ribcage, focusing on the side you have stretched.

Starting Position - Sit tall in the middle of a sturdy chair, feet planted firmly hip-width apart. Check that your weight is evenly balanced on both your sitting bones.

As you breathe out, close down that side of the ribcage, reach up, up, up, as you lengthen back to upright. Lower the arm.

Use your core connection (internal zip) as, when and if you need it to control your alignment and movements.

Repeat four times on each side.

Watchpoints Ensure that you have moved in one plane only and not bent forward or back - it’s as if you are sliding between two planes of glass.

Action Breathe in to prepare and lengthen up through the spine.

Breathe out as you lift your right leg and cross it over your left leg, without twisting the pelvis. Breathe in as you uncross your leg, still sitting tall.

Think up and over to avoid collapsing at the waist. Your head moves naturally as part of the spine, so do not twist it any further. Your gaze remains forwards.

Repeat with the other leg. Repeat 8 times Watchpoints Do not collapse in the spine.

Keep your pelvis grounded and feel equal weight through both feet.

4. Twister

Try to keep the weight even on both sitting bones. www.bodycontrolpilates.com

A fabulous exercise for the spine, this will also work your waist.

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Probiotic Skincare

Pucker Up

The latest offering from Murad is the Rapid Collagen Infusion for Lips. Its silky moisture boosting formula is designed to treat fine lines and wrinkles on and around the lips.

Priced at £22 you can wear it alone, or under your favourite lip colour for a softer, smoother pout.

The US has long been aware of fermented food in skincare; MyChelle Dermaceuticals is no exception using Kombuchka in their Deep Repair Cream, £24.

Kombuchka is an antioxidant rich fermented black tea and is often known as the ‘Champagne of Life’ - it detoxifies, hydrates and improves texture, tone and clarity, MyChelle’s deep Repair Cream is proven to improve skin smoothness by 6.2% in just 29 days

BEAUTY UPDATES

Erase your Make Up

It's not often something new comes to the beauty market that promises to make your life easier and save you time and money, but Makeup Eraser guarantees to do just this and more! It is designed to remove even the toughest make-up including waterproof mascara and eyeliner, HD makeup and lipstick with water alone. Available in a new baby blue colour and priced at £16.99.

Warm that Glow

A new shade (Warm Glow) has been added to Too Faced cosmetics best selling highlighter, Candlelight Glow. Featuring a champagne and peach combo as well as PHOTOLITE technology, which diffuses and refracts light for glowing, lit-from-within skin under all lighting conditions. It is priced at £25 and available from Debenhams stores nationwide.

Spritz Yourself Slim

Prends Moi by Velds is the UK’s first fragrance to aid weight loss and is available at the slimmest of prices from The Fragrance Shop at only £18.00 for 100ml.

Simply spritz onto your pulse points in the morning and, when you feel the urge to snack, sniff your scent to suppress the cravings!

Developed using ‘neurocosmetic’ research, it induces the release of Bendorphins in the skin, which trigger a sense of wellbeing and reduction in the need to overeat.

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Acqua di Parma Rosa Nobile Special Edition A feminine elegant fragrance with a bottle as unique and precious as a jewel £124, Harrods

Donna Karan Liquid Cashmere White Fragrance A fresh, feminine fragrance.

From £45.50, The Fragrance Shop

Jo Malone Wild Strawberry & Parsley Fragrance Part of the brand's new herb garden limited edition collection, this scent is both sweet and 'herby' all at once. £44, Jomalone.co.uk Calvin Klein ck2 This dual-faceted scent, designed to balance the urban with the natural and fresh.

From £20, Nationwide

Ariana Grande FRANKIE Eau de Parfum Vibrant and energetic, a fragrance for him, her and everyone! £33, fragranceexpert.com

Fragrantly Feminine We pick out some of our favourite newly launched fragrances

Salvatore Ferragamo Signorina Misteriosa A feminine, fruity, oriental fragrance. £60, Debenhams The Library of Fragrance Valentine Scent An irresistible, unique and unusual linear scent £15, thelibraryoffragrance.com

Michael Kors Coral Eau de Parfum A fresh scent inspired by feminine sensuality and the sun drenched colour of the tropics.

From £39, Nationwide Marc Jacobs Daisy Dream Blush A beautiful pink bottle and sweet flowery scent. £54, Nationwide

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Midlife Madness In My Own Little World!

I

ncreasingly and somewhat disturbingly I find there is a growing gulf between reality and what I have come to call my personal alternative universe, my own little world.

Now before you all start to think that I really have lost it big time, my bet is that you will have experienced similar situations yourself.

our own individual ‘alternative’ universe.

Other things happen there too. I apparently watch films that I know I haven’t watched and certainly have no memory of – yet others are equally adamant that I have, or even attended events which similarly I’m sure I have not – is it only me this is happening to?

I have had several occasions lately when I am absolutely convinced that I have told someone something, confirmed what I was planning to do or confirmed a business or social engagement, only to find that they deny all knowledge of my having told them. Sometimes I can even remember details of the conversation, possibly even where it took place and most disturbingly their response or reaction, which of course they deny absolutely as they say we have never had that conversation.

But another facet of this phenomenon is the way I seem able to construct a reality that is just a little separate from the shared reality of many others. Let me explain, in my own universe I am getting older, I can accept that with good grace but I’ve had a few of those times recently when I think I have made a half way decent job of my hair and make- up, and I’m wearing clothes that I feel ok in, then I catch sight of myself in an unexpected mirror – hence my brain is off guard and I can’t believe what I see, a kind of pantomime dame meets down-and-out look but with less style and sophistication.

Now being a rational soul I know that there must be a rational explanation and if it only ever happened with one person, I would be convinced that either they were losing it or were involved in some sinister scheme to try to convince me that I was losing it. So where on earth had this conversation taken place I ask myself and hence I reluctantly come to the conclusion that at least for part of the time I must live in my own little world.

One example happened recently while on holiday and enjoying a day at the beach. I’d taken a bit of time over my choice of swimsuit, put my hair in a fairly neat ‘up-do’ I was looking cool in my shades and I had a nice maxi to complete the look. So I nearly had heart failure when on the way back from the beach my reflection spoke less of a Greek beach goddess look and more of beach monster from the deep. Somehow sand was stuck all over my shoulders, sunscreen had somehow got all over my dress and the golden tan I envisaged was more the rosy cheeked look of someone highly embarrassed. The neat up-do had become a messy down-do and the look was completed by panda eyes, as I hadn’t taken off my cool shades’. What on earth had gone wrong?

But at other times I am surprised when people know about things that I swear I haven’t discussed with them – just as concerning - and I think back over conversations and swear blind to myself that actually I never told them, yet they seem convinced that I did – they certainty know the facts and sometimes can even tell me my responses, but I remain convinced I thought it rather than said it.

So surely there must be some other explanation and the only one I can come up with, which sort of makes sense in my mind, is that maybe we have several ‘goes’ at each conversation and each remember different versions in

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Anyway I shall just maintain that it wasn’t me, as long as no one captured the moment and put it on facebook, I will remain a beach babe, at least in my own little world!

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Anooska Heels £99, Dune Intu Milton Keynes

Kids Tepee Cabin Bed £399, Cuckooland.com

Candlelight Glow Highlighting Powder Duo £25, Debenhams

AFFINITY Sibberi Birch Water £2.49, Waitrose

Beurer Activity Tracker Health Manager £79.99, currentbody.com

Multi colour Bag £45, River Island

HOT PICKS

Heart Blouse £36, Topshop, Intu Milton Keynes

This month’s must have gifts and accessories

Nespresso by KitchenAid £209, www.nespresso.com

Magnitone London The Full Monty Body Multi Brush £130, magnitone.co.uk

Heidi Klum Intimates (Zoe) Bra £38, Briefs £25, Fig Leaves

Willow & Honey Fruity Gift Box £30, willowandhoney.co.uk

Ralph Lauren Sweatshirt £130, House of Fraser

Three Swallows Necklace £50, amandacoleman.co.uk

Hycosan Fresh Eye Drops £8.99, scopehealthcare.co.uk

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Radiating Beauty This winter make sure you choose a good moisturising cream to renew, refresh and revitalise your skin

Katherinr Daniels Dry Skin Cream £34.50

balance Me Moisture Rich Face Cream £24

Dermalogica Active Moist Moisturiser£44.60

Joan Collins Rose Optimise Lotion £25 Neal's Yard Frankincense Intense Moisturising Cream £59

Dior Beauty Capture Totale Multi Perfection Creme £127 Estee Lauder Time Zone Line & Wrinkle Reducing Creme £49

Murad Age Balancing Moisture Cream £59.50

Clinique Moisture Surge Intense Skin Fortifying Hydrator £34

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Hot Diamonds Emozioni Rose Gold & Silver Heart Bangle £72

Love Her

Pandora Entwined Hearts Ring £60

You'll be spoilt for choice with our selection of gifts for the woman in your life

Oh La La Pink Heart & Lips Purse £64.95 B London Boutique

Knomo Knomd Air Leather Organiser for Tablets £89 John Lewis

NEOM Moment of Calm Scented Candle £45

Bloom Gin for Valentine's £24 Waitrose Ashley Graham Lingerie £76 Navabi UGG Slippers £70 Amara

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Parker Sonnet Purple Matrix Ballpoint Pen £163.99, penheaven.co.uk

Personalised Silver Message Locket £63.50, chambersandbeau.com

Sabriel Stork Print Teddy £50, playfulpromises.com

Vineyard Prosecco Candle £19.50 greenglass.co.uk

Michael Kors Diamante Rose Gold Watch £229 John Lewis

Michael Kors Susannah Bag £310, John Lewis

Eau Rose Valentine Roll on Perfume £32 Selfridges

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Learning to

Live Your Dream

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unattainable others think your dream is, it’s your dream to go for.

‘Live the Dream’ is a phrase we’ve all heard, many of us may have used and some of us will actively wish for - though what we actually mean by it may vary from individual to individual.

“All our dreams can come true if we have the courage to pursue them” Walt Disney

Before we start to consider what ‘live the dream’ would mean for you, let’s think for a minute about ‘dreaming’.

Work Towards Your Dream But of course having a dream is just the start, if you want to ‘live your dream’ it will take effort and determination to make it a reality.

If you actively start pursuing the dream you want to live then that re-enforces your belief rather than diminishes it, and you will find it easier to take each successive step as it approaches. It doesn’t even matter how small the first step may be, simply doing something to pursue your dream will be an encouragement, and often the next step isn’t apparent until you have actually started moving forward.

As humans we spend a lot of time thinking ahead, planning and working towards things, saving and perhaps training, effectively working towards our dreams of a bigger home, more travel, a better job, a balanced life, greater financial freedom, good health and fulfilling relationships.

“If you can dream it you can do it!”

Walt Disney

Dreaming is Good The first step is allowing yourself to dream.

Think quite purposefully about what it is you want in your life and when you do this try not to be too held down by your concepts of reality – in many ways everything that is real has started as a dream for someone.

What Next So if you have a dream, what should you do?

The first step is to acknowledge it – try saying it out loud to yourself or to someone else or even writing it down. It is a powerful way of making it more real and in some ways it puts you on the line – if that is what you want then what are you going to do about it?

I heard recently that the designer of the Sydney Opera House, one of the most iconic buildings of the world, submitted his design (at the time little more than a sketch) without having worked out the engineering of the building at all. Quite simply he had a dream and was not afraid to take it forward and submit a design for the competition – even though he hadn’t ever been to Australia to see the proposed site and didn’t even know how the building he ‘dreamed’ could be constructed. What we know is that his design was chosen and despite years of technical and financial challenge, his dream did come to fruition and is a lasting legacy for the world.

Try to let go of the fears – sure there will be challenges but reaching for something is far better than staying right where you are with a dream burning inside you, never knowing if you could have lived that dream.

Do something practical towards it – that might be just finding out what you need to do for the first step, but doing something is important. Remember to keep inspired by reading about folk who have chased their dream and keep visualising what it is you want.

Hold that Dream Often when we share our dreams people can be very quick to pour proverbial cold water on them. It is so easy to do that and sometimes that negativity may stem from concern, but some people seem to find it too easy to rubbish people’s dreams. Surely as friends or family we should be supportive – it’s okay to address some challenges that may be inherent in the plan but no matter how

“If you can visualise it, if you can dream it then there is some way to do it” Walt Disney

For more information about how you can learn to live YOUR dream call Sheila on 07921193479 or email info@attunededcuation.com or visit the website www.attunededcuation.com

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Love Is In The Air

Y

ou’ve got the outfit and the gift sorted, but on one of the busiest nights of the year in the restaurant calendar, it can often be difficult to get a table for two.

So why not treat your loved one to an intimate home cooked meal this Valentine’s Day? Stuck on what to cook? Don’t worry as Head Chef of Michelin starred Bohemia restaurant, Steve Smith, shares his tips on arranging the perfect Valentine’s dinner date.

Drink Pink Lanique based cocktails are the perfect drink for Valentine’s due to its pink colour and rich and floral taste, as it’s made from a secret recipe that uses Attar of Rose! Try a signature serve of Lanique over crushed ice with fresh lime juice, or add it to Champagne or Prosecco for a twist to your fizz.

Create Ambience Try to have low-hanging pendant lights suspended over the dining tables, perfectly illuminating exquisite plates of food. Create ambience with dim lighting, background music playing and using your best cutlery!

Don’t Forget the Nibbles Plan ahead and don’t forget appetisers to begin the evening. You don’t want to make yourselves too full, but it’s always nice to have a few nibbles on offer.

Aphrodisiac Dishes Try to include aphrodisiac dishes, such as oysters which are very popular on Valentine’s menus and they pair really well with Champagne. February is the perfect time to serve oysters.

Sweet and Savoury Lobsters and chocolate are two items 26

which are instantly thought of when it comes to a Valentine’s dinner, so why not try combining the two? Such as Butter Poached Lobster, Cauliflower and White Chocolate, with Sorrel & Caviar.

Don’t Stress After a fancy starter try to keep the main course simple but also impressive. Go for pan-fried fish or steak served with a colourful side dish. Remember - presentation is always important.

Indulge in Chocolate For Valentine’s chocolate is a must on a menu, as it makes the perfect elegant dinner dessert, especially when served with dessert wine.

Simply go with a nice box of chocolates or try your hand at making chocolate mousse or a Black Forest gateau.

And the rest is up to you………

FASHION

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Next

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Red Bra £22, Briefs £12 Next

Red Bow Bra £8, Briefs £4 Primark

Lace Bra £25, Briefs £14 Lascana Apex Sheer Bra & Knickers £16 M&S

Red Devil lascana

Pleated Bra & Knickers £12 George at ASDA

Aliza Bra £25, Briefs £14 JD Williams

Autograph Ornamental Bra & Knickers Set £32 M&S

Smooth Lace Lingerie £70 Silent Assembly

Heidi Klum Intimates Camisole £65, French Knickers £45 House of Fraser

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Autograph Guipre Plunge Bra & Thong Set £32.50 M&S

Charnos Sienna Bra £28, Briefs £14 Lascana

Black Magic lascana

Gorgeous Bra £25, Briefs £9 Debenhams

Lace Corsage £170 Lascana

Bluebella Ariana Set £40 House of Fraser

Zia Lacy Bra & Brief Set £104 Silent Assembly Black Bra and Briefs River Island

Calvin Klein Infinite Lace Bra £43, Thong £26 House of Fraser

Eyelash Chemise £19.99 New Look

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Daniella Bra £28, Thong £14 Boux Avenue

Ultimate Bra and Brief Set Debenhams

Lace Bralette £6, Lace Briefs £3 Primark

Think Pink

Chloe Bra £24, Briefs £10 Boux Avenue

Limited Collection Bra & Knickers Set £20 M&S b.tempt'd Bra £33, Thong £17 House of Fraser

Floozie by Frost French, Debenhams

matalan

Balconette Bra £24, Briefs £12 Boux Avenue

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Rosie Plunge Bra £26, French Knickers £19.50 M&S

Rita Floral Bra £26, Briefs £14 Boux Avenue Satin Bra £16 , Briefs £12 River Island

Flower Power

Satin Bra & Knickers BHS

Gossard Silk Bra £42, Briefs £24 Lascana

matalan

Floozie by Frost French £18.50, Thong £8.50 Debenhams

Rose Print Bra & Knickers £12 George at ASDA

Limited Collection Bra & Knickers £23.50 M&S

Ted Baker Bra £25, Briefs £12.50 debenhams

Camisole £16 River Island

Style Stripes

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Dress New Look

J by Jasper Conran Mac £85 Debenhams

Striped Dress £55 La Redoute Stripe Shirt New Look riverisland

Stripe Shirt £32 Next

Shirt Dress £24.99 New Look

Stripe Dress £22.99 New Look Multi Coloured Bag £32 House of Fraser

Stripe Skirt £29 Very Stripe Shoe £30 Very

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Denim Dreams

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Dress £28 Dorothy Perkins

Cullotes £28 Dorothy Perkins

Belted Dress, New Look

Denim Shirt Dress £18 George at ASDA

Denim Pocket Skirt £60 Yumi Shift Dress £89 EAST

dorothyperkins

Girlfriend Jeans £24.99 New Look Sandals £45 River Island

Jumpsuit £38 Dorothy Perkins

Dotty Denim Shirt £42.50 White Stuff

Bag £35 River Island Denim Shirt £65 La Redoute

Denin Shirt Dress £150 Jaeger

Top £28 River Island

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Soul Legends

The Feel Good Show of The Year is Coming to Town Coming direct from the USA, Soul Legends the smash hit stage show is coming to The Grove Theatre in Dunstable for one night only on Friday 18th March.

Boasting that it features more soul classics than any other production including: Respect, Soul Man, Ain’t Nobody, Knock On Wood, Midnight Hour, Proud Mary, You’re My First My Last My Everything, Best Of My Love, River Deep Mountain High, Ain’t No Stopping Us Now, Beat It, Three Times a Lady, Get Down on It, and so much more.

Spanning the decades – from soul’s heady Sixties’ origins to the present day – slick choreography, 16 dazzling costume changes and the superb Soul Legends live band bring legendary soul stars to life in “soulsational” style.

The hits just keep on coming………….

WIN! WIN! WIN! We have 2 pairs of tickets to giveaway for this fabulous show To be in with a chance of winning just tell us one of the songs that are sung in the show and send your answer to: affinitymagcomp@gmail.com - GOOD LUCKK 36

The Grove Theatre, Dunstable 01582 602080 www.Grovetheatre.co.uk

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A nightclub singer, a double-murderess, a smooth-talking lawyer and a cell block of sin: it would be a crime to miss it.

Murder, greed, corruption, exploitation, adultery and treachery…all those things we hold near and dear to our hearts…so begins the international award winning Broadway and West End musical, CHICAGO, starring West End and EastEnders actor John Partridge, ( Cats, A Chorus Line, Miss Saigon, Starlight Express), as Billy Flynn, Dancing on Ice winner and Coronation Street star Hayley Tamaddon (Emmerdale, Grease, Mamma Mia!) as Roxie Hart, and X Factor winner and real life prison warden Sam Bailey as Matron ‘Mama’ Morton.

Chicago is a sensational musical that’s full of razzle-dazzle - it’s a show not to be missed.

Mon 14th - Sat 19th March Milton Keynes Theatre 0844 8717652 www.atgtickets.com/miltonkeynes

Based on real life events back in the roaring 1920s, nightclub singer Roxie Hart shoots her lover and along with cell block rival, double-murderess Velma Kelly, they fight to keep from death row with the help of smooth talking lawyer, Billy Flynn.

Created by the musical theatre talents of John Kander, Fred Ebb and legendary choreographer Bob Fosse, CHICAGO’s sexy, sassy score includes “All That Jazz” and “Razzle Dazzle”. With 6 Tony, 2 Olivier, 1 Grammy, 2 Bafta and 6 Academy Awards, CHICAGO truly is “The sharpest, slickest show on the block” The Times.

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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

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FOOD & DRINK

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Most Romantic Afternoon Tea

Pots of Fibre & Protein

If you’re not yet familiar with Cuckoo Bircher muesli then you’re missing out. Comprising of a blend of chunky fruit, wholegrain British jumbo oats, creamy West Country yoghurt and super-food linseed, each spoonful of Cuckoo has plenty of flavours and texture to keep your interest piqued. It is available in five flavours and retails at a pocket friendly £1.50 per pot from Tesco, Waitrose and Selfridges.

FOODIE NEWS

Show your significant other that they are simply tea-rific this Valentine’s with London’s most romantic Afternoon Tea at Lancaster London (www.lancasterlondon.com). Guests will be greeted with Laurent-Perrier Rosé Champagne, a hand written menu and a flawlessly laid table, scattered with rose petals.

Priced at £45 per head, it features exquisite sweet treats including heart shaped macaroons, Champagne & chocolate opera cake, passion fruit & raspberry lollypops; and freshly baked scones with rose & strawberry jam.

All Valentine’s bookings will automatically be entered into an exclusive competition, for a chance to win a bottle of LaurentPerrier Rosé Champagne with two official glass flutes, worth £99.95.

A Refreshing Pukka Tea

Lima Launches at Harrods

From 1st March the owners of Michelin starred LIMA Fitzrovia and LIMA Floral will launch a Peruvian delicatessen within the world-famous Harrods Food Hall. The deli menu will offer a variety of Peruvian dishes designed to take-away for lunch and dinner on the go. Customers can enjoy options including salmon and seabream ceviche; potatoes huancaina, beef or chicken empanadas and various anticuchos, the range incorporates both traditional and contemporary Peruvian cooking, celebrating vibrant and innovative flavours reflecting the gastronomic expansion seen in Peru over recent years.

Why not start the day with a cup of refreshing Pukka Detox with lemon tea or a glass of Clean Greens - both contain a unique blend of organic ingredients that help the body feel cleansed and revitalized, and as the morning turns into the afternoon try a cup of the delicious Pukka Blackcurrant Beauty tea. This delicious fruity blend is bursting with beautifying berry goodness and incredible herbs to help you glow with good health all day long.

Both the new Blackcurrant Beauty and Detox with lemon tea are priced at £2.39 for 20 sachets and are available nationwide from health food stores and selected supermarkets 44

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Prawn & Tofu Pad Thai “This noodle dish is super popular in Thailand and is quick, easy and delicious”

Ingredients 2 tbsp peanut oil 2-garlic cloves crushed 2 red birds eye chili (optional) 8 large green prawns peeled tails intact 300g firm tofu cubed 200g rice noodles 2 tbsp brown sugar 2 tbsp lime juice 2 tbsp fish sauce 1/2 cup roasted peanuts chopped 1 tbsp chives chopped 1 tbsp coriander chopped

Method Cook noodles as directed on packet. Heat oil in a wok and add garlic, chilies (if using), tofu and prawns, stir-fry until tofu is golden brown and prawns are pink.

Add the cooked noodles and stir-fry for a further 5 minutes. Add the fish sauce, lime juice and sugar, stir-fry this until well combined and heated through. Add seasoning if desired and stir in peanuts and coriander.

Serve immediately – delicious!

www.bestrecipes.com

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Crispy Chicken Thighs with Peppers and Salsa Verde Ingredients 1¼ cups low-sodium chicken broth 1 box roasted garlic-and-olive oil couscous 2 tsp. vegetable oil 6 large skin-on, bone-in chicken thighs 1½ tsp. Kosher salt ¾ tsp. Freshly ground pepper 3 medium colorful bell peppers ½ medium sweet onion 2 cloves garlic Caper Salsa Verde ¼ cup fresh parsley ¼ cup fresh basil 1 green onion chopped ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil 2 tbsp. capers 1½ tbsp. fresh lemon juice Salt / pepper

“Spice up your weeknight dinner with this quick and easy chicken recipe” Method Preheat oven to 425 F, 220 C, Gas 7. Bring broth to a boil in a 12-inch cast-iron skillet. In a medium bowl, pour the broth over the couscous, cover and set aside.

Heat oil in a skillet over a medium-high heat until very hot.

Sprinkle chicken with salt and pepper. Place chicken in skillet, skin sides down, and cook for approx 10 minutes or until skin is browned and crispy. Turn chicken over and cook for a further 4 minutes. Transfer the chicken to a plate; discard drippings.

Sauté peppers, sweet onion and garlic for 3 minutes. Arrange chicken on top of the peppers, skin sides up. Bake for 10 minutes or until cooked.

Fluff couscous with a fork. Serve chicken and peppers on couscous, and top with desired amount of salsa.

Salsa - Stir together the parsley, basil, green onion, olive oil, capers, and lemon juice. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

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Ingredients

Chocolate Eton Mess Method

Preheat oven to 350F, 180c, gas mark 4 Line baking tray with greaseproof paper.

In a heatproof bowl whisk together the egg whites and sugar. Set over a saucepan of simmering water, making sure the bottom of the bowl doesn’t touch the water. Whisk frequently until sugar is dissolved. Then whisk / beat until meringue is stiff and glossy. Sift the cocoa powder over the meringue, add the chopped chocolate, and gently fold together with a spatula.

Scoop out onto the baking tray with rounded tablespoons, about 2 inches apart. Bake for approx 8 minutes then turn trays and bake for an additional 8 minutes, until meringues are puffed and cracked. Let cool completely.

Toss together the strawberries and sugar and leave for at least 15 minutes until juices develop.

Add the cream to a bowl and whisk until thickened. Add the sugar slowly while continuing to whisk, followed by the vanilla. Beat to soft peak Crush the cooled meringue cookies and fold into the whipped cream with the strawberries and their juices. www.completelydelicious.com

Egg whites, from about 4 eggs 1 cup (200 grams) sugar 3 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder 2 oz bittersweet chocolate, chopped 2 cups strawberries, hulled and sliced ¼ cup sugar 8 fl oz thick cream 2 tbsp sugar

Pink Champagne Mug Cakes Ingredients

4 strawberries, washed, dried and diced ¼ cup Champagne 1 large egg 1tbsp unsalted butter, softened 1 drop pink food coloring ¼ cup granulated sugar 6 tbsp self-rising flour Pinch of kosher salt

Method

In a large mug, combine the strawberries and champagne. Set them aside to macerate for 5 to 10 minutes.

In a second mug, whisk together the egg and butter with a fork. Stir in the food coloring, sugar, macerated strawberries, and their liquid. Add the flour and salt.

Beat the batter until smooth.

Divide the batter between two mugs.

Microwave separately for 1½ to 2½ minutes each until risen and firm.

Pour into 2 champagne glasses and decorate with a strawberry. www.relish.com

Chocolate Indulgence Martini Method

Ingredients

2 chocolate wafer cookies Chocolate syrup, for drizzling inside the glass and the rim Ice 2oz store bought chocolate milk 1oz vanilla vodka 1oz creme de cocoa

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Place the chocolate cookies in a plastic bag and pound with a rolling pin or wooden mallet until fine crumbs are formed.

Coat the center of a small plate with chocolate syrup in a circle. Sprinkle the crushed chocolate wafers over the chocolate syrup on the plate. Turn a martini glass upside down and dip the rim of the glass in the mixture and spin back and forth, until the rim is coated.

Drizzle some chocolate syrup inside the glass, forming a swirling design and place the glass in the freezer.

In a shaker with ice add the chocolate milk, vodka and creme de cocoa. Shake well.

Remove glass from freezer. Strain mixture into glass and serve.

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Pudding Nights

"

5th February & 11th March only £16 for a main course and as many desserts as you can squeeze in

Pancake night

9th February £16 as many pancake desserts as you can squeeze in

"

Nothing says 'LOVE' better than Rose Champagne, we bring you our favourites for this Valentine's Day

Champagne Bollinger Rose NV Sometimes only the best will do, and Bollinger is a personal go-to Champers.

This champagne is the only new release from Bollinger for 30 years. The nose has reminders of redcurrant and raspberry with gentle, spicy notes. The palate is exceptionally well structured, perfectly combining power with freshness. An amazing aperitif. £49.99, Virgin Wines

Starter Night 26th February

Valentines Weekend

13th & 14th February 3 course Meal £25 per person including a gift for the ladies

Mothering Sunday

6th March 3 course meal £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

Moet & Chandon Brut Rose NV The legendary status of Moet isn't tarnished at all by knocking out this delicious Rosé, a style considered in polite circles to be a bit frivolous. We don't care, as it's a beautiful bottle of wine - easily as good as the white stuff for any celebration.

Strawberries and cream effervescing gently on the tongue - perfect. £38.99, Virgin Wines

Dom Perignon Rose 2003 It's difficult to put into words just how incredible this Champagne is. The first shock, after parting with your dosh, is when poured it's not pink in colour but a wonderful iridescent amber. Cellared for over a decade it is boggling how this vintage Rosé has kept the intensity and vibrancy of youthful fruit. Everything builds from here. The structure is a woven mesh of complexity that changes with every sniff and sip. £229.99, Virgin Wines

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I Love You Cupcake £8 Biscuiteers Baking

Spun Candy Love Mix Jar £4.99 John Lewis

Food of

Valentine's Goody Bag £18 Hotel Chocolat

L VE

Flavoured Gin Cocktail Box £27.95 Tipple Box

Cardwright & Butler Chocolate Loaf Cake £8 Harrods

Moet & Chandon Rose NV Champagne Gift Box £55 John Lewis

Godiva Chocolate Heart Tin £15 Selfridges Strawberry Fusion Lolly £2.50 Hotel Chocolat

Straight from the Heart Hotel Chocolat

Charbonnel et Walker Milk and Pink Champagne Truffles £38, John Lewis

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V 5

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INTERIORS

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debenhams

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Honeycomb Tealight Holder £5 George at ASDA

Gold Rush

Large Tealight Holder £21 Amara

Platter £25 M&S

Metallic Mugs £15 Next

Wine Decanter £7.99 Home Sense

Cushion £6 Matalan

Lantern £45 M&S

Eiffel Chair £99 Dwell

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Decorative Leaf £36.95 MiaFleur

Gold Sieves £58 (set of 3) MiaFleur

Cutlery Set (16 pieces) £49.50 M&S

Gold Leaf Coasters (set of 4) £22.95 MiaFleur

Platter £25 M&S

Vase £6 Wilkinson

Wall Clock £66 Amara

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Lido Boucle Throw £25 Debenhams

Snuggle up Faux Fur Throw £30 Wilko

Wool Rib Throw £70 Secret Linen Store

Keep cosy on a cold wint er's night with one of these snug gly throws

Double Woven Throw £112 Houseology

Lambswool Throw £140 Nkuku

Mohair Stripe Throw £25 Very Waffle Throw £15 Wilko

Smokey Blue Throw £69, Secret Linen Store

Loom Throw £59 Concept Store

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Love is Heart Initial Cushion £22.99 Getting Personal

All You Need is Love £42 The Great Gift Co

in the air

'Home is Wherever I'm... Print. £14.40 Of Life& Lemons

Heart Flutter Wall Art £8 Sainsbury's Love Cushion £10 Next

Love Revives You Print £30 Betsy Benn Designs

Love XXX £60 The Great Gift Co

Real Love Stories Print 8.99 Swanky Maison

Love You to the Moon and back' print £14.50 Of Life & Lemons

Pina to My Colada-Print £14 Not on the High Street

Love you To The Moon and back red Cushion

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Fry’s Footie Corner

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I

think if you had said to me at the start of the season that Leicester City would go into February on top of the Premier League, I would have laughed at you. I think if you asked that question to anyone, even the ardent Leicester City fan, they would have laughed at you too. Yet here we are, the Foxes are top and not just top, but they have a cushion too.

Claudio Ranieri is an experienced manager who has been in charge of some top clubs around the world, but if he was able to engineer a top four position from here, he would surely be listing this as his greatest achievement in the game.

And that is not to be disrespectful to Leicester, they deserve to be where they are because of the football that

they have played. Mahrez and Vardy may get a lot of the credit because they have been the standout performers, but you cannot be where they are without a real good team ethic and individual ability.

From back to front, they have players in top form. Kasper Schmeichel is one of the league’s top goalkeepers and has already been linked with a move to one of the top clubs in Europe following a string of impressive displays.

The experience of Robert Huth has been key at the back and in midfield the arrival of Kante to fill the void of Cambiasso has been a master stroke.

They have been a joy to watch and I for one, would love to see them finish in the top four and if they did manage 62

to win the league, it would be the biggest achievement in Premier League history without a shadow of a doubt.

Other clubs in the Premier League deserve an enormous amount of credit too. West Ham under Slaven Bilic has worked wonders at Upton Park and Quique Sánchez Flores at Watford has also produced some fine football playing a conventional 4-4-2 formation, like Leicester in that respect.

I am sure the run in will be full of twists and turns, but that is football – full of unpredictability. Enjoy the ride, whoever you support.

Barry Fry

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Sharkskin Mac £269 M&S

J by Jasper Conran Mac £120 Debenhams

Mac

Autograph Mac £99 M&S

Return of the Mushroom Mac £70 River Island

jaeger Mac £199 Kirklee Mac £99 Debenhams

Jaeger Mac £250

Double Front Mac £229 Jigsaw riverisland

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TRAVEL

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Venetian Extravagance Luxury and Pleasure at The Bauer Palazzo

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With its 150 canals, 400 bridges and magnificent 16th and 17th century palaces and piazzas, it is no surprise that Venice is considered one of the most beautiful and romantic cities in the world.

Which makes it the ideal place to take your loved one for a romantic break this Valentine’s.

Located on the Grand Canal, a short distance from Venice’s main attractions and designer shops, is the luxurious 5* Bauer Palazzo Hotel housed in a 19th century Venetian building, set behind arched lancet windows and a Gothic façade, the hotel’s spacious 135 guest rooms and 56 suites, many of which feature private balconies or terraces, are exquisitely decorated in true Venetian style, with fine fabrics, gilded mirrors, carved stucco ceilings and Murano glass chandeliers.

A private boat landing on the Grand Canal ensures the utmost comfort for guests who, on arrival, will be greeted by the hotel's sumptuous lobby, decorated with wood paneling and antique veneered Venetian walls.

The Settimo Cielo is an elegant breakfast lounge with a spectacular roof terrace. The roof terrace

is the highest one in Venice and offers magnificent panoramic views of the city.

The restaurant De Pisis offers gourmet Venetian and Mediterranean cuisine. It is possible to dine either indoors or on the outdoor terrace with its breathtaking views.

The fitness centre offers a sauna, steam room, personal trainers, and rooftop Jacuzzi from which you can see the Alps on a clear day.

With its Grand Canal location, stunning views, waterside terrace, old-fashioned luxury, good food, and historic setting makes it perfect for love and romance.

BOOK IT: Prices start from £380 per night, per room for a deluxe double with buffet breakfast, and £985 per night per room for an executive suite with a view. www.bauerpalazzo.hotelvenice.com

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Little Zebra arrives at Meribel

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Two bedroom chalets are not easy to find, particularly in the popular resort of Meribel. So we are really rather pleased with ourselves to bring you this little gem from VIP SKI. They have added Little Zebra chalets to their collection. Couples, families of four or small groups of friends can now enjoy this spacious chalet that promises privacy and intimacy.

VIP SKI chalets are known for their luxury, exceptional locations, and service for its unrivalled attention to detail and Little Zebra chalets are no different, providing rather unique accommodation for just four people with your own dedicated chalet host.

A perfect hideaway for a small group of family or friends. This freestanding chalet is over two floors, the open plan living/dining space is generous for four, and the patio doors open out onto your own terrace with private hot tub

and delightful views.

The décor is smart and contemporary with a few grown up toys thrown in, with wall mounted TVs in the bedrooms and some decent sounds in the living room.

The bedrooms in Little Zebra are located on the Second floor. With one Double bedroom with an en suite shower and a twin bedroom with a separate shower room.

Both rooms share a huge balcony.

Just what the doctor ordered, a comforting and welcoming retreat after a long day on the slopes.

BOOK IT! Priced from £1,139pp for a week’s stay in April including accommodation, all meals, return flights from Gatwick, coach transfers and VIP SKI’s chalet service. www.vip-chalets.com

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The New XF All Wheel Drive from Jaguar

Already the class benchmark for driving dynamics and driver engagement, the All-New Jaguar XF will this year offer an even greater breadth of dynamic ability.

For the first time, Jaguar’s business saloon offers all-wheel drive (AWD) together with a fourcylinder diesel engine – the clean, refined, 180PS 2.0-litre Ingenium unit. This combination will offer customers exceptional fuel efficiency together with enhanced all-weather traction and performance.

Jaguar’s torque on-demand AWD system features Intelligent Driveline Dynamics (IDD) – a next-

generation control technology developed entirely in-house.

Launched in the F-TYPE AWD, IDD delivers rear-wheel drive character and agility but can transfer precisely the right amount of torque to the front axle when required, maximising the performance and dynamics benefits of the additional traction.

The result is superb composure in even the most adverse weather conditions.

Configurable Dynamics improves the driving experience still further by allowing the driver to individually tune settings for the suspension, steering, throttle and transmission through the vehicle’s 68

touchscreen. Originally offered only on V6 models, Configurable Dynamics will now be available on all 180PS four-cylinder diesel models with automatic transmissions.

For vehicles equipped with the state-of-the-art InControl Touch Pro infotainment system, Configurable Dynamics also benefits from Dynamic-i. Displayed on the 10.2-inch touchscreen, this feature provides the driver with a stopwatch, G-meter, lap timer and graphs of brake and accelerator pedal activation, enhancing the allnew XF’s performance-orientated character.

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And for the first time, the Adaptive Dynamics continuously variable damping system will be available on manual transmission models.

The improved body control that Adaptive Dynamics provides, coupled with the smooth, precise gear change engineered for the six-speed gearbox, will offer keen drivers even greater involvement.

All-New XF is one of the safest cars in its segment too, achieving the maximum five star rating from Euro NCAP. And, with CO2 emissions from just 104g/km, class-leading residual values, class leading three-year unlimited mileage warranty and the lowest overall service costs in its class, the all-new XF also delivers remarkably low running costs.

As well as benchmark vehicle dynamics, the all-new XF boasts exceptional usability and practicality, thanks to classleading rear seat space and a 540-litre luggage compartment – the largest in the segment. The

Together with the performance and desirability customers expect from Jaguar, the all-new XF’s efficiency, usability and low total cost of ownership will certainly prove very attractive to business users worldwide.

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STARS

Manish Kumar Arora (K.P. Astrologer, Numerologist, Tarot Card Reader & Vastu Consultant) reveals what’s in store for you this month

Aquarius (20 January – 18 February) - This is a wonderful time to let the light of the stars illuminate the areas of your life which inspire you. It’s time to really nurture those things that spark your interest, light a fire in your belly, and just light you up. Not only will you benefit from following your dreams, but others will be drawn to your hopeful and bright self. Having a clear idea of what you want will help you plot your course and stay on point as the month progresses.

Favourable Dates: Feb 2,5,11,14,20,23,29 Favourable Colours: Red & Yellow

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Pisces (19 February – 20 March) You are in a time of wild and exciting opportunity, especially on a personal note, and there are many people who need you and appreciate you. Keep the vision of your empire in mind so you remember what you are working towards when things get busy and unbearable There are also new romantic prospects perhaps closer than you realize. Allow yourself to open up to new contacts and to being a light for those who are in murky waters.

Favourable Dates: Feb 3,9,12,18,21,27 Favourable Colours: White & Yellow Aries (21 March – 19 April) You may be feeling radiant and ready to explore this month’s journey with fresh eyes. Your enthusiastic energy and spirit will keep you optimistic. The way you are moving through life is a sight to see. If you have been doubting your abilities in the past, this month is the reminder to embrace your power and regain that confidence. If you’ve already got that part covered, it’s time to get into action and methodically build from a solid foundation.

Favourable Dates: Feb 3,6,12,15,21,24 Favourable Colours: Red & Yellow Taurus (20 April – 20 May) There was something you aspired to achieve and victory is yours this month. Stay humble and happy, beautiful soul. If you have been in the market for a new relationship or wanted to ignite passion in your current relationship then this will be your time. Now is the time to tap into your romantic side and swoon that special someone that has caught your eye. If you are already in a relationship, go back to the basics and have a date night. Love is in the air.

Favourable Dates: Feb 2,7,11,16,20,25 Favourable Colours: Red & Green

Gemini (21 May – 20 June) You will show strong willpower and an unstoppable force.

The month will be good for competing at work or in contests.

Your co-workers will be in awe by how quickly you will get your work done. Deadlines are no match for you. This will be a good time to challenge yourself and see how much you can accomplish outside of work as well. It’s also a good time to garden or consider new additions to your family.

Favourable Dates: Feb 3, 4, 12, 13, 21, 22 Favourable Colours : Red & White Cancer (21 June – 22 July) You will be perceptive and insightful. This is a good time to start new ventures or take on more intellectual pursuits. Your psychic abilities, intuition and spirituality is powerful and you are being called to explore that on an even deeper level. Sit back and allow your manifesting magic to do the work. Your prowess is impressive and you are being called to explore worlds and wisdom unseen. It is time to put your faith in the invisible, the great mystery of life.

Favourable Dates : Feb 3, 6, 12, 15, 21, 24 Favourable Colours : Grey & White

Leo (23 July – 22 August) It will prove to be a stressful time. Everything and everyone will be getting on your last nerve. The month speaks of sleepless nights and a body riddled with anxiety. Find an emotional outlet this month and work on your breathing techniques. If you have anything important to accomplish and you have to rely on other people to help, then make sure you

leave nothing to chance. Work with only the most reliable individuals you know or disaster could be at hand.

Favourable Dates: Feb 1, 2, 10, 11, 19, 20, 28 Favourable Colours : Purple & White

Virgo (23 August – 22 September) You will be on top of your game this month.. Learn a new skill or take up a new hobby. It will be a good time to start or finish something that you have been putting off. Open up to those you love and share with them how meaningful and satisfying you find your relationships. Indulge in the good things in life because you are in the moment and happy. Try to keep a good attitude. Immerse yourself in a creative venture.

Favourable Dates : Feb 3, 9, 12, 18, 21, 27, 28 Favourable Colours : Yellow & White

Libra (23 September – 22 October) It is good time to use your inherent persistence and set your own path this month. This will be good time to tend to goals or projects that require patience. If your friendships and romantic relationships need a little work, now is a great time to be willing to see them in a different way. Allow your relationships to evolve, and surrender to what feels good for you. Just work with yourself and experiment with everything that resonates with you.

Favourable Dates: Feb 3, 7, 12, 16, 21, 25, 28 Favourable Colours : Red & Green Scorpio (23 October – 21 November) You will show versatility this month. Combine that with your inner strength and you have a recipe for success. If any situations or predicaments present themselves you will be ready to take them head on. Be prepared to help others as well. Your friends and family may need you more than usual this month. Be there for them and guide them with your inner strength. Be thoughtful of others feelings if you are trying to help, because no one likes to feel pitied.

Favourable Dates: Feb 2, 4, 11, 13, 20, 22, 29 Favourable Colours : Blue & Yellow

Sagittarius (22 November - 21 December) You have been trying to create a work/life balance, or maybe you are trying to create equality and fairness between your needs and your partners, or you could be trying to keep your finances balanced up to this point. This approach isn’t working at the moment though. This month you may need to tip the scales in one direction or the other. Take a vacation if you’ve been working too hard or put your nose to the grindstone if you’ve been slacking off.

Favourable Dates: Feb 1, 5, 10, 14, 19, 23, 26 Favourable Colours : Red & Green

Capricorn (22 December – 19 January) This will be a good month for communication and intellectual pursuits. Paired with your inherent ability to lead, the period will drive you to make good decisions. Your hard work will be rewarded this month, if you put the effort into your endeavours. Others will be drawn to you for guidance, make sure you think before speak. This is also a good time to focus on physical fitness and health as well. Be thankful for what you have and try not to spend needlessly this month.

Favourable Dates: Feb 2, 3, 11, 12, 20, 21, 29 Favourable Colours : Red & White

manishastroconsultant manish@manishastrologer.com

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A quiet night in...

No Mortal Thing by Gerald Seymour Two young men - Jago and Marcantonio - both studying business and finance: Jago is a kid from a rough part of London, who has worked hard to get a job in a bank and is now on a fast-track secondment to the Berlin office.

Marcantonio is one of the new generation in the 'Ndrangheta crime families from Calabria, Southern Italy.

He is in Germany to learn how to channel their illicit millions towards legitimate businesses all over Europe.

When Jago witnesses Marcantonio commit a vicious assault and the police seem uninterested, the Englishman refuses to let the matter drop. But by pursuing the gangster to his grandfather's mountain lair, Jago is stepping into the middle of a delicate surveillance operation, which sets alarm bells ringing in Rome, London and Berlin. It also leads him to Consolata, a young woman who sees in Jago the chance to turn her nonviolent protest campaign against the crime families into something altogether more lethal.........

Secret In Their Eyes

Julia Roberts and Nicole Kidman lead the starry cast of this glossy Hollywood thriller. A routine murder investigation spirals into chaos and despair for district attorney's investigator Jess Cobb (Julia Roberts), when the victim is revealed to be her own daughter. So devastating are the consequences of the case that Jess's close colleague, FBI agent Ray Carsten (Chiwetel Ejiofor), dedicates his life to tracking down the person responsible. 13 years later, after endless amounts of searching, Karsten believes he has found his man. Re-teaming with District Attorney Claire Sloan (Nicole Kidman), the dedicated agent urges the case to be reopened - but they reckoned without the actions of the increasingly vengeful Jess.

Release Date: 26th February

Legend

This crime drama about the rise and fall of two of the most notorious gangsters in England's history: the Kray twins.

Tom Hardy stars as both Ronald and Reginald Kray, identical twins who rose to prominence in London's underworld in the 1950s and '60s, using gruesome, unhinged tactics and savvy business acumen to seize control of the city.

Release Date: 25th January

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AFFINITY LUXURY LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

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February 2016

Lose inches The new treatment from Katherine Daniels

Life’s changing seasons Leran to love them

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FEBRUARY 2016 ISSUE 57

The latest beauty trend we are all trying

Spring into theatre Shows coming this year