Affinity Magazine July 2012

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JULY 2012

ISSUE 14

July 2012

Whittlebury Hall & Spa

Special readers pamper offer

Festival Fabulous

MILLMAN

Jewellers of Distinction Another exciting new range now in store

2 Church Arcade Bedford TEL 01234 354026

AFFINITY MAGAZINE

Make sure your hair looks great

Beach Babies Swimwear for your little ones

Sun, Sea & Deckchairs

check out these stylish designs

Your FREE Monthly Magazine

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

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A Friendly Welcome Awaits The Victoria Arms is under new management and has been refurbished

Home cooked food is served daily with a variety of specials on offer Monthly Curry Night 2nd Thursday of every month Only £6.95

A wonderful variety of cask ales, lagers and wines Why not just pop in for tea or coffee Sunday lunch is between Noon and 6pm at only £8.95 (adults) and £4.50 (children)

“Relaxed Dining at it’s Best”

The Victoria Arms, High Street, Wilden 01234 772437

Affinity July _Layout 1 copy 14/06/2012 15:53 Page 1

Monday - Saturday 9.30am - 5.30pm Sunday 10am - 4pm

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Affinity July _Layout 1 copy 14/06/2012 15:53 Page 2

THINKING OF MOVING

OR ON THE MARKET AND NOT SOLD? We can help you! Join in our selling success today.

WHAT OUR CUSTOMERS THINK OF US Before putting my house on the market, I shortlisted several estate agents including both local agents and large national chains. Advancing Property’s to-the-point, no-nonsense approach was a clear winner from the start. And indeed, selling my house with Advancing Property has been an excellent and distinct experience. I can highly recommend their professional and positive approach from the initial consultation until the completion date. No time-wasting viewings, useful and timely feedback on viewings we had and, what is most important, they found a buyer within a few weeks. Advancing Property made the process of selling my house as efficient and painless as it can possibly be. It has been a pleasure to work with them.

- Mr S We are always kept up to date, the team are very friendly and knowledgeable, they consistently work hard on our behalf, and it is service that goes the extra mile - Would definitely recommend!

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Established now for 20 years, in the tranquil village of Oakley, Hazel and her team offer a wealth of experience and knowledge, offering a full range of Hair, Barbers, Beauty Treatments, Bridal Services and Semi Permanent Make-Up and Aesthetics.

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Cruise Select Satisfaction Guaranteed

W

ith cruise holidays ever increasing in popularity, Bedford's Cruise Select has fully trained cruise travel professionals available to provide expert advice on itineraries, ports of call, cruise lines, ships, accommodations and other important cruise planning details.

Leading Cruise Agents) and 'ACE' (Association of Cruise Experts). As a fully bonded member of ABTA, Cruise Select abides by their Code of Conduct ensuring your travel arrangements are protected in case of financial failure.

Providing unparalleled customer service is the number 1 most important thing for Cruise Select. Shelley, Bella, Julie, Tracey, Sharon and Sarah are part of the team of Cruise Specialists each having a strong knowledge base of the cruising product allowing them to listen to your preferences and interests and make recommendations that best suit your holiday needs. The team are warm, patient, honest and reliable and always strive to surpass your expectations as both a Cruise Specialist and for your dream holiday. Whatever destination you long to explore, they are keen to share their expertise and ensure that you have the most authentic and fulfilling experience in that corner of the world. Having first-hand tips and memories to share with clients is another bonus of having a team of Cruise Specialists who are hooked on travel! Some of their favourite first hand highlights include cruising the coastal waters of Alaska, the stunning sites of rarely visited Burma, watching the sun set standing atop the Great Wall of China, and soaking up the romance and scenery of Portugal on the Douro River cruise.

The cruise industry is the fastest growing segment of the travel industry – and consistently receives the highest satisfaction levels among holiday makers. More than 1.7 million British passengers will cruise in 2012 and more than 2 million will cruise in 2014.

“With so many different segments of the population cruising, we have a cruise for everyone,” says Rachel Wright the Owner of Cruise Select in Bedford.

“Whether you seek adventure, cultural enrichment, family togetherness or complete relaxation, the opportunities in today’s cruise market are endless.”

“The value is also exceptional,” Rachel added, noting that a cruise typically includes accommodations, food, entertainment and often transfers and airfare can also be included, with a selection of cruise lines offering an all-inclusive programme. “We want to fulfil our customers’ holiday needs and we want to provide a holiday that is truly memorable. A cruise is the best holiday option available today.”

You can choose to sail the world aboard an intimate yacht-like vessel, a high-tech mega-ship or virtually anything in between. With more than 500 ports-of-calls and over 200 cruise ships to choose from, the possibilities are endless.

Cruise Select established in 1996 is a member of prestige trade associations including the 'LCA' (The

The team ensure that every trip you experience goes smoothly by lending you continuous support, knowledge and attention from your first conversation all the way until you come home from your cruise. So entrust your cruise holiday to Cruise Select and experience the comfort and ease of working with your own Cruise Specialist.

6

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Bedfordshire’ Bedfordshire’s s Only Dedicated Cruise Specialist

Providing unparalleled customer service is the number one most p g important thing.

They have: Over 150 years of travel experience

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

Cover Image Model - Victoria’s Secret Bikini - Palm Print Stringkini www.victoriassecret.com

Welcome...

Hi Everyone Welcome to our July issue, where we are well and truly into summer so let’s hope we finally get to see some sun!

Julia Crofts Sales Manager Julia@aďŹƒnitymag.co.uk 07507 602401 O1234 215523

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Reproduction in whole or in part is strictly prohibited.

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In fitting style we’ve brought you all you need to enjoy the summer in this month’s issue, including Alfresco Dining, Summer Fashion and much more.

Last month saw the Diamond Jubilee, Euro 2012 and the start of Wimbledon. Not to be outdone, this month also has lots on offer including the start of The Olympics and unless you’ve been hiding in a cave for the last couple of months then you will know the Olympic flame is on a relay around the country – on 8th July the flame makes an appearance right here in Bedford turn to page 64 to read all about it.

This month in Bedford also sees the return of its very own festival Bedfringe, starting on 13th July and ending on 28th July there’s something for everyone. We catch up with James Pharaoh one of the festival organisers on Page 34.

Sticking with Bedford “The Embankment Hotel� was our Restaurant Review, with its perfect River Ouse setting and delicious food we couldn’t fail to be impressed.

And if you’re worn out from all this why not take advantage of our exclusive readers offer on page 14 for some overnight pampering and relaxation at Whittlebury Hall and Spa So make the most of the sunshine when it appears and have fun!

Jane x

Natural

Health

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migraine I

clues for targeting treatment. If the pain is centered around the temples, this indicates an imbalance in the liver. However, if the pain is primarily across the forehead this points to the stomach.

know several people who suffer from migraines on a regular basis, they can last for days and I know just how debilitating they can be and just how much they disrupt the sufferer’s life. Migraines often run in families with more women sufferers than men.

Studies also link migraine with anxiety and depression.

Some suggestions: • Abdominal Breathing for relaxation for 10 minutes per day. All too often we are guilty of shallow breathing from our chest rather than from our abdomen.

Orthodox medicine sees migraine as a disturbance of blood flow to the brain. With blood vessels constricting, which gives the visual disturbances followed by vaso dilation responsible for the severe pain associated with an attack. However, when discussing their experience of migraine with them it seems to me a much more complex condition involving an imbalance within the body which is expressed as a serious headache.

• Massage the neck and head gently before and between attacks every day to aid smooth blood-flow to the brain.

• There are two well known herbs which can help and which are readily available as a tea. Firstly, Rosemary, which has high salicylate content for pain relief and is known as a ‘head herb’, aiding memory and concentration. Secondly, Chrysanthemum has been used by the Chinese to treat digestive problems and specifically may help with the liverish symptoms which can go with a migraine. It would be particularly helpful for anyone who becomes hot and irritable, with symptoms similar to PMT during an attack. This is usually taken as a tea, but can be taken in different forms from an herbalist as part of a formula.

There are many symptoms associated with migraines and numerous triggers – too many for me to discuss in this article which, unfortunately, makes migraine quite a complex condition to treat.

In Ayurveda, a migraine is seen as a predominantly pitta (fire) disturbance. However, all 3 doshas can also be involved. Diet, is seen as one of the key elements of treatment by avoiding heating foods, such as hot spices, fermented and foods with yeast, aged cheeses or cured meat, alcohol, shellfish and sour fruits and coffee.

Energetically, the Liver and stomach are often involved in triggering an attack. Symptoms of a liver imbalance include visual disturbances and feeling hot and irritable.

Whereas vomiting before or during a migraine, is indicative of a stomach imbalance.There are many other contributory factors to take into account from stress to insomnia and constipation.

• Fortunately, there are numerous herbs, that are not available over the counter, which can be made up into personalised and holistic formulas that take into account all of the symptoms and address the underlying causes of chronic migraines.

Whilst my suggestions can all help but they are probably not going to be a complete panacea.

The location of the pain is a key indicator in identifying where the imbalance in the body originates and gives

For further information contact Carolyn Wood-Herbalist and Naturopath MAMH, MANP, ITEC 07944 886502 carolyn@vedatherapeutics.co.uk www.vedatherapeutics.co.uk 10

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.

CONTENTS 14 18 28 32 42 44 46 51 55 66

Whittlebury Spa Golden Glow Shhhh!!!

Bedfringe Let’s Eat Steer Your Career Me, Myself & I Beach Babies Alfresco Dining Canal Cruising

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Festival

T

ime to dust off those wellies, and ready that rucksack, festival season is upon us. Whether it’s dancing at Creamfields or rocking at Download, you’ll need to have some festival essentials on hand to help keep you looking great.

Preparing your hair beforehand can help give you the basis for easy, low maintenance styling. Train your hair on the run-up to the festival by not washing it as often as you would, this will give it a chance to build natural oils and slow down this process meaning it takes longer to get greasy. Try leaving your hair to dry naturally and practice any styles without the help of straighteners and tongs, the VIP area may have electric but you won’t find many plug sockets in a field!

If you really struggle to totally give up the heat styling for a weekend, there are some cordless hair tools on the market. Babyliss and Morphy Richards are just two that can help keep hair under control.

Accessories can be the perfect cover up and will distract the eye from any hair disasters. Add a scarf to your bag to be ready for an emergency restyle on the go. Either tie around your head, or if you want an on-trend style, try weaving the scarf through a plait or up do. The high

street is full of cute headbands and floral adornments that look perfect with some waves and curls.

A fail-safe to cover up any bad hair day is the trusty hat.

Grab a trilby or straw boater to finish your festival outfit, it’ll also help protect against the sun.

Avoid product overload and keep it simple, by adding too much in the way of sprays and gels you’ll end up with greasy hair in no time. Try out a sea salt spray for texture; this will slightly dry the hair helping you go that extra day without needing to wash it. Plait or twist hair before your head hits your pillow for instant waves the next morning.

If you fancy trying something a bit different, why not get some temporary colours to brighten things up. The dipdye look is still spotted on celebs, so why not take inspiration and get some bright flashes of colour through your hair.

Make sure you pamper your hair when you get home to bring it back to its best. If you find hair feeling dry and lacking shine, try an intensive conditioner overnight to encourage shine and give hair moisture.

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Fabulous ites

Top 5 Festival Beauty Favour Dry Shampoo – take a travel size to keep your rucksack light.

Spray through roots for a hair boost, and gently shake hair upside down to give more volume

Wet Wipes – an essential for any festival goer, perfect for keeping clean when things get muddy

Suncream – they may be notorious for rain, but don’t forget festivals don’t have a lot of shelter, so if the sun comes out make sure you’re protected

Bow Print Scarf £5.99 internacionale.com

Vaseline – a true multitasker. Calm frizzy flyaways, tame eyebrows and keep lips luscious

Kirby Grips – twist and pin hair into an up do. Add some grips to a belt loop to always have them handy

Pacific Gala Headband £105 stone-bridge.co.uk

Feather Headband ££3.99 internationale.com

Tortoiseshell Hair Pins £15 stonebridge.co.uk

Pink Flower Headband £2.99 British Heart Foundation

Tuile Small Jaw Clip £22 stone-bridge.co.uk

For more hair tips from Kelly visit our Hair Clinic at www.affinitymag.co.uk Kelly Gay www.klghairadvice.com

Affinity July _Layout 1 copy 14/06/2012 15:55 Page 12

A Rejuvenating Escape at

Whittlebury Hall Hotel and Spa E

ven the most organised person will find themselves needing a little time for some Rest and Relaxation and to recharge their batteries. Let’s be honest we all find ourselves facing stressful situations that leave us screaming ‘I need a rest – get me out of here!’

facililities enjoying the complimentary fruit, iced water and fruit tea along the way. We then headed off for a buffet style lunch which was delicious and featured a wide choice of hot and cold healthy options.

We then enjoyed the ‘Heat and Ice experience’ for a while before I headed back to the pool and my husband decided to do a quick workout in the gym. After I'd exhausted the various options round the pool I retreated upstairs to hang out on the couches and sip the free tea and apples that were provided. It was lovely relaxing in an environment, not a worry in the world.

A year after the launch of Affinity my Husband and I were on a quest for relaxation and rejuvenation and the ‘Overnight Escape and Spa Stay Package’ at Whittlebury Hall seemed the ideal choice.

As we pulled into the long drive towards the imposing house, Whittlebury Hall gives a striking first impression.

The grounds are green and lush and the building looks like something out of a Jane Austen novel - I half expected lords and ladies to be waltzing around in Elizabethan costume. It seemed an oasis of calm and the bustle of everyday life just seemed to slip away.

We were met at the Spa reception by a friendly therapist who gave us our detailed itinerary for the day. We were then shown the layout of the spa which is spread out across two floors, the location of the pool, the Heat and Ice experience, as well as the various rooms and chilllout areas.

It was then time for our treatments I had chosen the ‘ESPA Energising Express Facial’ my therapist led me to the peaceful treatment room and began with a consultation on the products I use and my cleansing routine. Then a thorough cleansing process including a shoulder massage, followed up with a gentle exfoliating product. A calming, refreshing cool mask was then applied and left on as gentle music played in the background, whilst I enjoyed a soothing scalp massage.

After about five minutes, the mask was gently cleansed away. Moisturising cream and eye cream were then applied to leave me with a bright complexion.

We then changed into our swimwear, complimentary robes and padded slippers and proceeded to relax in the ambient surroundings. The air was fresh and scented with a mixture of eucalyptus and orange essential oils and Grecian style statues adorned the place, with white pillars and floral displays giving the Spa an aura of luxury and decadence.

Whilst I was being pampered my Husband was enjoying his own form of relaxation in the form of a ‘ Moisturising Flotation Wrap’ which left him feeling invigorated and fully recharged.

The Day Spa uses Elemis, ESPA, Clarins, Jessica, Kurland Skincare and Fake Bake in their treatments and all products are available to buy.

We enjoyed a few lazy hours relaxing and using the

14

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We then enjoyed a lazy couple of hours in our spacious room, where there was complimentary fruit, wine and water not to mention the Elemis toiletries and fluffy robes and slippers before heading down to Astons Restaurant for our three course dinner. The staff were attentive and polite and the meal was delightful.

After dinner a walk around the grounds proved to be very scenic, with lush green fields making you feel very countrified.

After a comfortable night’s sleep, breakfast proved the perfect start to our day, this may be a day spa for health and nourishment but they know full well that a traditional English breakfast always goes down a treat.

We were then extra lucky as we were invited by Helena from the spa to attend their Jubilee afternoon tea garden party later in the day, where we enjoyed a delicious cream tea in a garden party setting, treatments were demonstrated and products tested as well as a raffle with some fantastic prizes ranging from products to treatments as well as an overnight stay, just like the one we had just had!

Whittlebury Hall was a lovely experience, with unfailingly polite staff, a multitude of activities on offer and a spa area filled with many options to try. We had a lovely time and left refreshed with a promise to return.

I'd recommend it to anyone looking for a relaxing, tranquil getaway.

Affinity has teamed up with Whittlebury Hall for a ‘Simply Indulgent Special Readers Offer’ Treat yourself and a friend or loved one to the perfect pampering treat – “A one Night Spa Stay for £85 per person and receive a COMPLIMENTARY 25 minute ESPA Energising Express Facial*”.

The 1 Night Spa Stay package allows you to enjoy full use of our Heat and Ice Experiences, a three-course dinner in Astons Restaurant, overnight stay and full English breakfast. And if that isn’t tempting enough, a Complimentary 25 minute ESPA Energising Express Facial provides the perfect addition for some wellearned pampering.

To take advantage of this great value offer call us today and quote ‘AFFINITY 12’ on 0845 400 0002 *Terms and conditions apply

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H a w air i i a n

B

oard Hawaiian Airlines this Summer by introducing vividly printed garments that allow you to almost feel the tropical breezes.

This trend is brought together with the use of; bright coloured accessories, beautifully bold prints that feature tropical flowers and exotic species of birds teamed with plain block staple pieces. With the digital print craze still ongoing the use of dream like prints has been able to live on. The prints used, are artworks in themselves so when put onto the body and worn with confidence and style they can have a dramatic effect. The colour palette for this trend is a spectrum of rainbow colours in vivid and cool light tones mirroring that of jungle paradises. The use of royal blue and cool white pieces make the looks more modern and ready to adapt to your life style. The addition of watermelon and orange shades can add a younger and more fun feel to the look.

Introduce leafy greens and sunset yellows for a more laid back approach. The tropical trend is fun, exotic and lively whilst still being versatile, elegant and adaptable.

For sun and frolics, team Hawaiian print shirts with colour pop skinny jeans for a young and vibrant look.

Transform this look from day to night by adding a beautiful, statement clutch bag - think shells and ocean shades. Switch this look around with simple but effective tropical print shorts worn with a simple silk blouse for an easy breezy holiday look. If you're dressing for the office or an important meeting wear a

Bracelet £10 accessorize.com Tote Bag £89 Modalu.com

Short Bead Necklace £3.99 internacional.com

Floral high waisted shorts £10 Primark

Wanderlust Wedge £45 office.co.uk

single statement piece in a tropical print worn with staple, simplistic pieces. Try a pair of printed silk trousers that will create a perfect balance between elegance and cool, teamed with a white breezy summer top with an on trend white or colour block blazer. For more of an edgy summer work look, go with a panelled tropical dress worn with a pair of colour block wooden wedge sandals for the perfect modern look. For the brilliantly bold, go all out, head to toe 'matchy-matchy' in a two piece trouser, skirt or short suit in an exotic birds of paradise tropical print.

When thinking about accessorising your outfit for this trend go with statement gold jewellery or painted and woven/braided pieces. There are some beautiful exotic/tribal pieces that combine all three of the above, available on the High Street. Handmade or holiday souvenir, beaded necklaces would also be a simple but effective way to finish off an outfit. Add a statement white or sand coloured tote bag to keep the look grounded in the rarely exotic UK fashion world, teamed with simple matching loafers. Don’t neglect the 'shoe love' craze if your feeling daring though, wedges in sunset or exotic hues will make any look as unforgettable as a Hawaiian Getaway!

Transform yourself into a 'Bird of Paradise' this summer!

Carla Williams

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The Dress Agency Castle Ashby celebrates its first year anniversary!

I

t has been one year since The Dress Agency at The Rural Shopping Yard, Castle Ashby opened its doors selling like new High-End High Street and Designer clothing on behalf of its welldressed customers.

Owner, Rachel Linsley says 'I have been overwhelmed by the quality and range of clothing that has come in to The Dress Agency over the last year. I always knew this was a well-dressed area, but I am constantly amazed at the beautiful one-off items we get in stock. I am so grateful to my customers for their support over the past year.’ 'I think we have something for everyone in The Dress Agency and I am very proud of this. It is a wonderful place to pick up a bargain and/or sell like new items on a 50/50 basis. Plus, because we only keep things for 8 weeks or as items sell, we bring new stock out daily so it is always worth people coming in for a good browse!'

To celebrate The Dress Agency's one year anniversary, if you bring this article in to the shop , we will give you 10% off any purchase over ÂŁ20 until August 31st 2012*.

The Dress Agency, The Rural Shopping Yard, Castle Ashby, NN7 1LF Telephone: 01604 696972 (due to high demand, all stock intake is by appointment only, so please call us to book an appointment) www.thedressagency-castleashby.co.uk * valid for one purchase per person only

Affinity July _Layout 1 copy 14/06/2012 15:56 Page 16

Glow

Golden

There are different ways to get that sun kissed look on your face, you can go the self tan route or the make-up route. One isn’t better than the other it is just your preference and how much time you have.

Self Tan your Face

1 2

Clean your face, then exfoliate try Vichy ‘Pureté Thermale Exfoliant Créme’, £7.

Most people Don’t moisturise before tanning as it dilutes the colour, but if you are after a very subtle glow then you may want to use a basic moisturiser, as some ingredients in fake tan such as retinoids or AHA’s may interfere with the tanning pigment, also if you have light hair you might want to put a little Vaseline over your eyebrows to help protect them from staining

3

Apply the self tan all over, rubbing it from the middle of the face outwards and blend it all the way down the throat – there’s nothing worse than a bronzed face and a white neck!

Affinity July _Layout 1 copy 14/06/2012 15:56 Page 17

Estee Lauder Bronze Goddess Self Tan £22 Debenhams

No7 Tinted Moisturiser £12 Boots

Artdeco Sun Glow Bronzing Powder £15 .beautyalmanac.com Piz Buin Summer Sensation £9.99 Boots Chanel Gold Nail Polish johnlewis.com

Look Tanned with make up

D & G Lipstick £20

Firstly don’t use foundation, even a sheer foundation will be too heavy, instead use a tinted moisturiser, this is where they really come into their own, because they are super light you can go up a couple of shades deeper than your skin colour.

Then add some blush, this is what will make the difference between a believable tan and a fake one. For a subtle effect, rub a berry cream blush such as ‘The Creamy Glow In Mystere’ £19, by Kevyn Aucoin over your cheeks and a tiny bit on the end of your nose. Then use some bronzing powder to adjust the intensity of the colour. Sweep it along your hairline, over your cheekbones and chin, as well as a light layer over eyelids and neck.

Benefit Gold Lipstick House of Fraser

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Y Spa at Wyboston Lakes takes on

Elemis and Murad

E

lemis and Murad will be the chosen product houses for Y Spa at Wyboston Lakes in their new Spa facility which is due to open this autumn. Now moving into the first phase of development, Y Spa recently announced the appointment of Emma-Jane North, as Spa Director.

new Y Spa at Wyboston Lakes to our portfolio.”

The difference between Murad and other Dr brands is that Murad was created by a practising dermatologist and pharmacist Dr Howard Murad. This means that when you purchase Murad, you are getting the best pharmaceutical-grade ingredients combined with the latest skincare technology. Dr Murad believes in optimum skin health – that whatever your skincare problems and whatever your age, genetic and environmental skincare conditions can be treated.

With Murad it really is possible to get great skin at any age.

Emma-Jane told us, “When creating the Spa menu for Y Spa we wanted to inspire our guests and deliver real results with our treatments, our choice of Elemis and Murad proved the perfect partnership. Elemis delivers both luxury, aspiration and results in a package designed to make you feel amazing. Murad is your gorgeous best friend’s beauty secret, a brand that proves beauty is more than skin deep, who knew science could be this sexy!

What I personally (and most of my guests) aspire to is the best skin I can get whatever my age or lifestyle and this is now no longer a dream.

Elliot Walker, Murad UK Managing Director says, “I’m delighted Y Spa has chosen Murad as their skincare partner. Murad recognises that customers simply want results - and Murad is the market leader in resultsdriven skincare.

Wyboston Lakes Spa presents the perfect opportunity to share Murad’s skincare philosophy with visitors expecting a high-quality, hands-on experience, with real results.”

Elemis is the leading luxury British spa and skincare brand favoured by as many as 6.5 million spa-goers per year. The successful combination of natural active ingredients with cutting-edge technology has enabled Elemis to bring to market some of the most influential anti-ageing products and professional spa-therapies the beauty industry has ever seen.

When it opens in the Autumn The Spa will incorporate eleven therapy rooms including three couple’s rooms, steam rooms, water beds and relaxation areas with reading pods. A signature feature is the external hydropool and kelo sauna in the south-facing spa garden together with an open air fireplace and sun loungers.

Noella Gabriel, Director of Elemis Product and Treatment Development says; “It is always exciting to have the opportunity to play a part in an innovative and forward-thinking project. We are thrilled to add the

20

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Affinity July _Layout 1 copy 14/06/2012 15:57 Page 20

Life Eco

Frazer Parfum Solid Natural Perfume £79 thenaturalstore.co.uk

“Can echo chic scents compete with the worlds most iconic synthetic perfumes?”

Liz Earle Botanical Essence No1 £45 lizearle.com

Orange & Mimosa Natural Perfume

Organic Glam Oriental Blossom Perfume £119.95 theorganicpharmacy.com

Ancient Attar Pure-fume Spirit Spray £47 aveda.co.uk Tous H20 Eau De Toilette £26 lucyrose.biz

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M i x &

M a t c h

Republic

Affinity July _Layout 1 copy 14/06/2012 15:58 Page 22

Bow Straw Floppy Hat Pilot

Baroque printed blazer £25 Sateen Crop Bustier £11 Chain Print Mini £13 Metallic Tote £12 Platform Sandal £19 Primark

Tan SuedeTassle bag £60 Simply Be

Colour Sunglasses £1 Primark Antique Pearl Stretch Bracelet £15 marksandspencer.com

Star by Julien Macdonald Bracelet £10 Debenhams

Blouse £179 T shirt £35 Skirt £45 laredoute.co.uk Frye Strappy Platform Wedge £160 johnlewis.com

Yellow Lace Dress £45 Warehouse

Affinity July _Layout 1 copy 14/06/2012 15:58 Page 23

Floppy Hat With Scarf Trim £20 Accessorize

Large Round Sunglasses £12 mandco.com

Nicolle Stacker Set £12.00 Monsoon

Megan Bag £60 pauls-boutique.com

New Look

Call It Spring Poinsette £50 Debenhams

Culture Clash Top £22.50 Trousers £35, Belt £25, Earring £7.50, Necklace £15, Bracelet £7.50 marksandspencer.com

Denim Zip Front Tencel Dress £129 Dark Tan Leather Satchel £135 viyella.co.uk

Debenhams

Affinity July _Layout 1 copy 14/06/2012 16:04 Page 24

Dear Readers Success is by no means a secret. Prepare to work hard, achieve realistic targets, remain consistent and learn from your mistakes.

Jardine White Consulting can provide HR services for all your business needs. For a free consultation call Jacqueline on 07813 098676 or email info@j-w-c.co.uk

Our BBW Man Day networking event in May was a roaring success. We attracted 175 business guests on the day. Our guest speakers gave motivation and positive thoughts and we raised a massive £4700 for St Johns Hospice. Thanks everyone who supported us and made it a memorable occasion.

Give your business the profile it deserves! We are now taking bookings for business stands to exhibit at our Lifestyle Networking Event on Thursday 19th July at University of Bedfordshire, Polhill Avenue, Bedford. Call me on 07850 617578 to reserve your stand today. Alternatively you can book your place to join us www.beds-businesswomen.org

We wait in anticipation for FSB Bedfordshire Business Awards announcements. Qualifying as finalist for “Networking Group of the Year” category was an honour and excellent testimony for BBW’s successful year.

We would like to extend a warm welcome to new BBW members MacIntrye Hudson, The Business Club Bedford, Hot off the Press, Essence of Beauty and Luton Adult Learning.

Have a great month in business.

Warm Wishes, Kerry Cash President BBW

This month’s member spotlight is on Jacqueline Jardine who is Director of Jardine White Consulting. Jacqueline has many years experience as a senior HR specialist and tells me that people do make all the difference in any business large or small and at any level.

Jacqueline’s 5 valuable tips For the month: • Know your strengths and areas of development to develop effective strategies for interacting with people and responding to demands of your working environment.

• It’s important that everyone within your business knows where the business is going and the contribution they need to make. People must know expectations and where their responsibilities lie. Job descriptions give clarity and are great for monitoring performance.

• Regular reviews and one-to-one meetings help people to feel listened to. Opinions count and managers can gain alternative views and ideas.

• Asking proactive questions, rather than telling. Coach and empower your managers who work in the heart of your business.

• Treat people as you want to be treated. Your employees and your customers will know if this is part of your culture.

12 hour music event in aid of HELP 4 HEROES Sat 14th July Noon to midnight BBQ, raffle, auction, bouncy castle, tombola and much more See website for details Newnham Ave, Bedford, MK41 9PX 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.uk

www.beds-businesswomen.org For enquiries - kerry@5thavenuespa.co.uk

We are seeking a highly motivated advertising telesales executive to join our already dynamic team. Have you got what it takes?

Call Jane on: 01234 215523 07809 499669 jane@affinitymag.co.uk

Affinity July _Layout 1 copy 14/06/2012 16:04 Page 25

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

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continue

Let the chaos

Chosen by the Cultural Olympiad to be part of the “London 2012 Festival”, Festival Of Chaos provides Northamptonshire audiences with the chance to be part of something truly extraordinary in this celebratory year.

Hedda Gabler follows on from The Bacchae and Blood Wedding in a trilogy of plays which explore a central theme that has fascinated writers and theatre-makers for generations – how deep-rooted desires can often exist in conflict with social conventions and ‘expected’ standards of behaviour.

As explored throughout the Festival Of Chaos trilogy, the disruptive power of Dionysus is captured in Ibsen’s Hedda Gabler within the heart of one of the most compelling women ever portrayed in literature. Stifled by the boredom of her comfortable existence, Hedda finds herself caught in a claustrophobic marriage.

Consumed by the burning desires within her, and haunted by a half-forgotten ghost ‘with vine leaves in his hair’, she sets out on a destructive path that pits her lust for drama and beauty against the social conventions of the day.

Hedda Gabler can be seen from Friday 6th to Saturday 28th July and tickets For more details or to book tickets: Royal & Derngate Box Office on: 01604 624811 www.royalandderngate.co.uk.

Fitness

Personal

Affinity July _Layout 1 copy 14/06/2012 16:04 Page 26

S hhh

h.......

it’s the muscle we don’t talk about

- Your pelvic floor is one of the most important muscles in your body but we don’t dare talk about it Anyone can be affected with pelvic floor issues, however the older you are and if you have given birth then your chances of having pelvic floor problems are increased.

Another issue that can affect your pelvic floor is if you are overweight which unfortunately is also on the increase.

It seems we just hush over it and in reality we really should discuss it more. We all have one and at some point in our lives we are all going to need to know a bit more about it. So before you need to know I thought I’d share some info with you.

Your pelvic floor muscles are located internally between your legs and run from your pubic bone at the front of your body all the way to the base of your spine. They act as a sling between the legs supporting your bladder and bowel movements. As you get older your pelvic floor can become weak which can lead to incontinence and can also cause reduced sensitivity during sex.

I know some people won’t even have finished reading the title of this piece before turning the page on to something less ‘embarrassing’, but for those of you who are still reading Thank you!

Your pelvic floor supports your bowel, bladder and uterus (womb), so your pelvic floor controls when you empty your bladder or bowels.

If you have a weak pelvic floor you may find you accidentally leak a little wee when you cough, sneeze or exercise, or you may have difficulty holding in wind.

As you get older, if your pelvic floor is weak it is possible for your uterus to ‘sag’ down. This is called a prolapse. Some studies show that four in ten women have some degree of prolapse. Now there is no need to panic - there is something really, really simple we can do about it.

The reason I’ve chosen to write about this in this issue of Affinity is because no-one ever dares talk about it yet incontinence pads are taking up more and more of our supermarket shelves, more pages in our glossy magazines and more advertising time on our TV’s so someone must be buying them!

28

Affinity July _Layout 1 copy 14/06/2012 16:04 Page 27

How to train our pelvic floor We can do Kegels named after the gynecologist Dr Arnold Kegel who invented the exercises.

Imagine you are trying to stop yourself from passing wind and trying to stop your flow of urine mid-stream at the same time. You should feel a squeeze and a lift from your front passage to your back passage.

It sounds easy but please make sure you are getting the lift without clenching the buttocks, pulling in your tummy, squeezing your inner thighs together and holding your breath.

Hold the contraction for a few seconds and then let go. The letting go part is just as important as the holding on part. Try and repeat this 8-10 times. You can do this a few times each day, no-one will know you are doing them so you could even do them at your desk at work!

Once you have mastered the ‘lift and squeeze’ try and vary the speed so try 10 fast contractions. You can do these throughout the day, try to make pelvic floor exercises part of your daily routine.

You’ll be so grateful you did when you sneeze!

Although this article does talk a lot about women and female pelvic floors, there is no reason why men shouldn’t do pelvic floor exercises too.

There are many leading sex experts that believe a strong pelvic floor can increase awareness of sexual sensations and enhance enjoyment in both men and women..........

Now there’s a good reason to do your pelvic floor exercises!

Julie Holl - Personal Trainer - Holl Fitness Studio 07808 739651 www.hollfitness.com 29

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M

Music for You Summer Schools

usic for You Summer Schools celebrates its 15th Music Summer School here in Bedfordshire, featuring international artists from around the world. Local musicians from the local area are welcome to join us for a variety of music courses that will be both enjoyable and educational. Courses include jazz ensembles, orchestras, string groups, wind band and conducting. We are delighted to announce our new folk course for 2012 and would really encourage any folk enthusiast to get in contact and support this new venture. The fantastic music and beautiful venue of Shuttleworth College is a winning recipe that certainly offers something special for everyone who attends. “The 2012 course participants can also expect expert tuition from a host of inspirational tutors,� said Dawn Bradley-Buxton course Director. “The special ingredient about these music courses is that both adults and children can play side by side at a variety of levels. It’s very important that if you are at an advanced level you are musically challenged and have the opportunity to play with others of a similar standard. Likewise if you are a beginner or have taken up

an instrument later on in life it is important that musicians are supported and guided in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. Where ever you are in your musical journey, we will ensure that you have an enjoyable time’.

Emma Matthews, a French horn player visited the course for the first time in 2010. “The feeling of friendly professionalism and enthusiasm was the first thing that struck me on that first Monday morning� said Emma. “Everyone in that room, wanted to be there! Guy Woolfenden was terrific; what a musician and Laszlo Marosi – what can I say? Exceptional!

Thank you all for such a wonderful week.�

If you would like to join us this summer contact: Dawn Bradley-Buxton on 07973 504855 www.musicforyousummerschools.co.uk admin@musicforyousummerschools.co.uk Special discounts and scholarships for local adults and children are available.

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A Little Bit of

Fringe!

There’s not too long to wait now until this years Bedfringe Festival on 13th – 28th July and it promises to be even bigger and better than ever. Affinity decided to catch up with Festival organiser James Pharaoh and put him in the hot seat!

Bedfringe is now in its sixth year how did you become involved in it?

Hello Affinity magazine! After returning from the 2004 Edinburgh Festival Fringe I thought that maybe Bedford could have its own fringe. It’s not that difficult to sort... book a venue, ask a load of acts to attend, sell tickets. At the time, not much was happening on the small to medium scale comedy & theatre scene in Bedford (pre facebook years!) so I thought potential for success. I joined forces with a small group of like-minded people and there we have it. Bedfringe one was born. You can view all our past brochures by visiting the website.

Is there anything you know now that you wish you’d known six years ago?

The importance of product identity. Just because something sells in Edinburgh or Brighton doesn’t mean it will sell here with the same packaging. I am confident that this year’s is the strongest to date with a clear and colourful brochure which links up with all our other promotional material.

What’s different this year, than last?

Last year we hosted around 50 shows… this year we are at around 70. The brochure is bigger as a result of this growth so hopefully stands out more! We also have a review team this year recruited by Fringe Review, a leading online magazine for fringe festivals around the globe.

For anyone who’s not aware of Bedfringe can you give a brief description?

In a nutshell Bedfringe is an event which hosts comedy, theatre, live music, dance, spoken word, cabaret, poetry and more recently, film. All the work is new and or undiscovered. It’s a platform for new up and coming talent basically.

And finally, if I was coming to the festival for the first time this year what would you say my five must sees should be?

Everything is fab! But if you must twist my arm…

Who are you most looking forward to seeing perform this year?

There’s loads of fab work on. Many of the shows I have seen so going on what I haven’t (and therefore looking forward to them) is SHARP, a dance group from Philadelphia USA. They are coming over to perform specifically in the Bedfringe festival. They were sent our way via Inbrook Production Services who handle the likes of Jerry Seinfeld, Nathan Lane, Russell Brand and Eddie Izzard.

1. The Bane Trilogy 2. The Gambler 3. Idiots Of Ants 4. The Hunchback Of Notre Dame 5. SHARP: Une Soirée Au Cabaret (Dance group from USA) For more details on this years Festival or to read the brochure online visit: www.bedfinge.co.uk

You must have seen a lot of changes over the six years you’ve been going, what would you say has been the biggest change?

The support network would be the biggest. Thanks to Facebook, Twitter and therefore WeAreBedford, Creative Bedfordshire and other such groups, I can meet and ‘recruit’ the people that are needed to allow Bedfringe to thrive. I also find that sponsors are a little easier to bring on board as now the festival has a strong identity and success history.

Win! Win! Win! We have a pair of tickets to give away for this years festival to see “ShowStopper! The Improvised Musical” on Tues 24th July at The Corn Exchange, for your chance of winning tell us “how many years Bedfringe has been going?” And send to info@affinitymag.co.uk

32

Affinity July _Layout 1 copy 14/06/2012 16:05 Page 31

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OMIGOD YOU GUYS

Affinity July _Layout 1 copy 14/06/2012 16:05 Page 33

G

areth Gates and Jennifer Ellison are to join the cast of the international award-winning hit Legally Blonde The Musical as ‘Warner’ and ‘Paulette’ which comes to Milton Keynes Theatre later this month on 31st July – 11th August.

recently seen wowing judges and audiences alike on ITV’s hit show Dancing on Ice where she reached the semi finals.

Winner of 7 major awards including the coveted Best Musical 2011 (Olivier Awards) this all singing, all dancing romantic comedy is about knowing who you are and showing what you’ve got!

Faye Brooks (Grease in the West End) stars in the role of ‘Elle’ and Iwan Lewis (Fame in the West End, Passion at The Donmar Warehouse) plays ‘Emmett’.

College sweetheart and homecoming queen Elle Woods Gareth Gates shot to fame in 2002 when he was famously doesn't take no for an answer. So when she gets dumped voted runner-up in the UK’s first hit television series of by her boyfriend for someone more serious, she puts Pop Idol. He has since gone on to sell 3.5 million records down her credit cards, hits the books, and sets out where in the UK alone, releasing 3 albums and 4 no other Delta Nu has gone before - Harvard UK number 1 singles. More recently Gareth Law School. From the social whirl of sunny has starred in Joseph and The Amazing California campus life to the Harvard Halls All singing, Technicolor Dreamcoat (West End), Les of Justice, this all-singing, all-dancing, feel Miserables (25th Anniversary tour and West good musical comedy will give audiences a all dancing End) and Loserville (West Yorkshire fresh and effervescent evening of fun, romantic Playhouse) and appeared last Christmas at stylishly wrapped up in a smart pink bow!

Milton Keynes Theatre in the smash hit panto comedy – Aladdin.

The verdict? This much fun should not be legal!

Jennifer Ellison is best known for her roles in the TV soap opera Brookside and the film adaptation of Legally Blonde The Musical is the funniest and most The Phantom of the Opera. Her theatre credits include fabulous musical around. The best show in town, an ‘Roxie Hart’ in Chicago (West End and UK tour), Boeing absolutely must see!

Boeing (Comedy Theatre) and Calendar Girls and she has made numerous other television appearances (Hotel Milton Keynes Theatre Babylon, The Verdict, The Brief, Hell’s Kitchen and as a Tues 19th – Sat 30th June judge on Dirty Dancing - Time of Your Life). Jennifer was www.atgtickets.com/miltonkeynes

“

“

35

Affinity July _Layout 1 copy 14/06/2012 16:05 Page 34 J

Fry’s

footie corner

A

lthough the transfer window has opened again, there is little activity owing to everyone being on their holidays and at the Euro 2012 Championships. Despite England going there with a horrendous injury list as players dropped out left, right and centre, they did better than expected in their first game with a creditable 1-1 draw against France, who went into the tournament on a 24-match unbeaten run.

We would expect England to grow in confidence and with the addition of Wayne Rooney coming back for the final group game, we have high hopes of reaching the next stage. So far, Russia have impressed with a comprehensive victory over the Czech Republic and I have to say are strong outsiders at 20-1.

The best game of the tournament so far has been Spain v Italy. Spain named a line-up without a centre forward, which was surprising, but I am sure a recognised target man will be introduced and they will do better than that score draw with Italy.

Germany started well and will get better. The biggest disappointment so far has been Holland, however they have a talented group of players and can easily bounce back although they faced sterner opposition in their group.

Generally, the sides have been positive, normally a lot of the early games are negative and people don’t want to lose but at least this year the teams are showing the desire to win. I am sure there will be entertaining games ahead.

The Republic of Ireland went into the tournament on the back of a decent unbeaten run, but conceded after two minutes against Croatia. Sean St. Ledger, ex Peterborough United, levelled but they then conceded two goals and that is a great shame as they look like heading out of the tournament.

As for my tip to win it, you can’t look past Germany.

They have experience and youth in their squad and they know how to win. Russia would be my outside bet.

Barry Fry

www.theposh.com

36

Affinity July _Layout 1 copy 14/06/2012 16:05 Page 35

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“

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The perfect Bottle Torbreck The Steading 2006 Australia Very ‘Burgundian’ in style, the palate is elegant and pure with subtle notes of crushed cherries, earth and cedar all neatly wound by a taught spine of acidity and ripe supple tannins. £26 Tesco

Ingredients

6 large slender aubergines (halved lengthways) 100ml olive oil 2 onions, finely chopped 2 garlic cloves, crushed 400g tinned chopped tomatoes 1 tbsp tomato puree 3 tbsp chopped flat leaf parsley 1 tbsp chopped oregano 125g mozzarella cheese, grated

Canti Puglia Negroamaro Zinfandel Well structured, medium bodied red wine with a distinct bouquet of wild berries £4.26 Tesco

Recipe Preheat the oven to 180C/Gas 4.

Score the aubergine flesh by cutting a criss cross pattern with a sharp knife, being careful not to cut through the skin.

Heat 2 tbsp of the olive oil in a large frying pan, add three aubergines and cook for 2 – 3 minutes each side, or until the flesh is soft. Remove, and repeat with the remaining aubergines.

Cool slightly and scoop out the flesh, leaving a 2mm border. Finely chop the flesh and keep the shells.

Then cook the onion for approx 5 mins, add the garlic, tomato, tomato puree, herbs and aubergine flesh, cook stirring occasionally over a low heat for 8 – 10 minutes, or until the sauce is thick, Season well.

Arrange the aubergine shells in a lightly greased baking dish and spoon in the tomato filling.

Sprinkle with the mozzarella and bake for 5 – 10 mins, or until the cheese has melted.

BUON APETITO!

Montpierre Reserve Shiraz Rose The elegant, dry rosé is light and fruity and has generous layers of strawberries and cherries on the nose and palate. Best served chilled £7.99 Sainsburys

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Chocolate Brownie Ingredients (serves 8)

280g Dark chocolate, broken into small pieces 280g Diced unsalted butter 4 Medium sized eggs, lightly beaten 280g Caster sugar 1 Vanilla pod - split open and seeds scraped out ½ Teaspoon vanilla extract 130g Plain flour 60g Cocoa powder 95g Milk chocolate, broken into small pieces 95g White chocolate, broken into small pieces Extra butter for greasing the baking tin 1 Square baking tin, preferably non stick

Method

• Preheat the oven to 180°C. • Put the dark chocolate and butter into a large heatproof bowl, and place over a pan of simmering water, allow to melt. Stir until smooth and set aside to cool a little.

• Whisk the eggs and sugar together with the vanilla seeds and the extract until it forms a nice creamy froth.

• Lightly fold in the melted chocolate, then sift in the flour and cocoa powder and mix through gently. Stir in the chunks of milk and white chocolate.

• Grease the baking tin with butter and then line with baking parchment or greaseproof paper. Carefully pour the mixture into the lined baking tin.

• Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes. The top should be firm and crisp but the inside should still be lovely and moist. Allow to cool on a wire rack before cutting.

Serving suggestion!

Serve slightly warm with ice cream and strawberries for a delicious treat!

Enjoy

Corner ocktail

Sangria Blanca 2 bottles dry white wine, such as sauvignon blanc 1/2 cup sherry 1/2 cup Cointreau 1/4 cup sugar 1/2 bunch seedless white grapes 1 lemon, unpeeled and sliced 2 peaches, unpeeled, pitted, and sliced 1/2 honeydew melon, peeled, seeded, and diced 1/2 litre soda 10 strawberries chopped Combine all ingredients in a large jug, stirring until sugar is completely dissolved. Serve immediately, or if making in advance, refrigerate up to 24 hours, and then add the soda just before serving.

Affinity July _Layout 1 copy 14/06/2012 16:06 Page 39

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01234 215 523 www.affinitymag.co.uk Be Part of an Established Brand

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S

rocket against the strength of parmesan set tastebuds alight.

et in the heart of Bedford’s beautifully landscaped Embankment with wonderful views looking out over The River Great Ouse is “The Embankment Hotel” an imposing mock -Tudor building that offers guests a relaxed, informal friendly atmosphere.

The main dishes were just as delicious. Grilled mackerel fillets, pea shoot and fennel salad, with orange and shallot dressing for myself, the combination of the peas, fish and fennel were flavoursome and refreshing and for my husband chicken madras, pilau rice, sour cream and poppadoms, this was served on a rustic wooden board, the chicken was so tender it just fell off the bone and the authentic madras taste mixed with the crispy homemade poppadums was simply mouthwatering.

Food is served all day and you can choose breakfast, elevenses, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner, we decided to sample their evening menu which was full of fresh seasonal food.

As soon as we walked into The Embankment we were greeted by the friendly staff, who showed us to our table and took our drink order. As well as the menu there were daily specials to choose from that all sounded delicious.

Desserts? Well it would be rude not to!! Peanut parfait and strawberry coulis, this looked too good to eat – the soft, smooth parfait with crisp crunchy peanut brittle was a dessert heaven, an absolute delight. Sponge pudding and ice cream was the other delight, homemade and light simply delicious.

Water, bread and olives were brought to us whilst we deliberated over the menu.

The meal was faultless, the service was professional and friendly, and the atmosphere relaxing and informal, what more could you wish for on an evening out – I highly recommend you pay The Embankment a visit and I guarantee once you’ve been you’ll return again and again we certainly do!

Choices were finally made and starters were smoked salmon and horseradish mousse, beetroot, herb cress and toasted rye bread, this was beautifully presented, the crispiness of the rye bread, complimented the tangy softness of the mousse and the sweetness of the beetroot finished it off.

The Embankment has a lot going on during the summer months so make sure you visit their website for details:

Beef Carpaccio, rocket and parmesan salad. The beef came perfectly chilled, and the peppery taste of the

www.embankmentbedford.co.uk 01234 261332 42

Affinity July _Layout 1 copy 14/06/2012 16:07 Page 41

On the

Couch

Affinity July _Layout 1 copy 14/06/2012 16:07 Page 42

£

How to Steer Your Career,

Ladies!

“

you want to make the right moves at work, “Ifyou’ve got to take control of your own fate

When candidates are being considered for a role personal recommendation goes a long way. But because so many people are connected through the internet it is difficult to distinguish between them, which makes face to face interaction even more important. So get out and meet people. Join a professional body or a private members club and attend their events or find a charity support.

Get Some Qualifications We all know a successful woman who has no more than a secretarial qualification and sometimes not even that, and they have made it, but they are the exception.

If you want a successful career you need some appropriate qualifications. They will give you confidence, act as a testimony to your capability and provide you with important links to others.

Experience is very important too. Apply to part of a company that no one would think of working in. Getting your foot in the door is the biggest challenge – if you are any good, you will be able to move around.

It’s Never too Late It’s never ‘too late’ for anything – to become a solicitor, write a novel, to tweet or to learn to swim.

I’m a great believer in personal goals. My challenge for 2012 is to write 6 chapters of my book! You are never too old; these challenges are what keeps us young at heart.

And remember careers can be started from scratch even when you are drawing your pension. I recently came

Build a Network You need to be both good at what you do and good at building relationships with people who matter.

44

Affinity July _Layout 1 copy 14/06/2012 16:07 Page 43

across three women in their 60’s starting new careers one was a trainee solicitor, one an estate agent and the other was in modelling! If you are thinking about a new career, start by writing a list of careers you are interested in, do a little research and find people to talk to who have worked in that area.

Interests Outside Work and Family Life It is unlikely you will be successful unless you get involved with something outside the home. It can be charitable, the arts or sport, something that you are interested in as well as being good for your career.

When you are seated next to someone influential at dinner or interviewed for a job it will be your third dimension that will help you stand out.

Join the board of a not-for-profit organisation; this will give you the skills required for the boardroom.

You Can Say No Saying no is a life skill that is very important to master if you want to be successful.

Women have more difficulty saying no, as we are less concerned with our own needs and more concerned Promote Yourself about the welfare of others, but being able to say no Every woman should spend at least five per cent of her effectively will help you up the career ladder. time doing her own PR. It’s not enough to be good at your It is well documented that there is a gender gap in pay. job - you need to make sure people know who you are.

Sometimes it’s simply because women Women often ignore this as they believe don’t ask to be paid more. Don’t sell self promotion is inappropriate. But a yourself short, if you operate in a man’s woman who communicates in a world, you should ask for a man’s pay. If competent but warm manner quells Every woman they offer you something else just say doubts about her ability and at should spend ‘NO!’ You don’t have to shout or cry. likeableness, and this can definitely cent least five per Practice what you want to say increase her influence. of her time doing beforehand on friends or your partner.

Make sure the internet works for you: check your profiles are up to date and her own PR You Can’t Have it All representative of the qualities you From an early age, women should be would like to portray to people. encouraged to be ambitious. But to How you look, speak and engage with grow up thinking that it is perfectly others is critical to helping you get possible to be the CEO of a large company, a brilliant heart ahead. surgeon, or an opera star, whilst securing a gorgeous Dress appropriately and consider your wardrobe an husband, having an amazing sex life, raising perfectly important investment in your career. balanced children keeping up your league badminton at the weekends plus still having time to see your girlfriends You Can’t Do It All on Your Own and parents, get to the hairdresser, beauty salon and yoga Successful women recognise that they need team then you are seriously deluding yourself. members on their side to succeed. So you need to employ You need to remember - Your time is a scarce resource. the right people – who will become the cornerstone of How you allocate it is central to how successful your your business. career will be. Stop thinking of trying to achieve work-life balance. Work is part of most people’s lives. Look at it as The key to managing a team is to acknowledge their ‘life balance’. contributions.

Decide on your priorities, then spend your time in line with those priorities Be approachable and encouraging; How you look, this will help you achieve your goals accept you can’t be good at everything. speak and much more easily. It is about Hire someone who is good where you engage with compromise. The sooner you work out are weak; delegate tasks you don’t what your priorities are the easier it enjoy. others is critical will be to make a plan. Know what you to helping you want and why and then make your Contract out the chores that you are not get ahead choices accordingly. great at doing. Acknowledging your weaknesses and dealing with them will Do More Than a Man put you ahead.

As a woman you will certainly have to cram more into your day, week, and life than a man.

At home be prepared to accept that “less than perfect” is Women are still the primary carers when it comes to good enough. looking after children and they make up 90 per cent of all If you are ambitious you WILL be able to achieve just as lone parents. They also bear the burden of responsibility much as any man, but just like a man you will have to for the lion’s share of domestic chores- even when both make sacrifices and compromises. parents are working or they have a stay at home partner.

You must learn to outsource! Prioritise according to Knowing what they are, and why you are making them is what’s important to you, then outsource, be organised, half the battle. speak up for what you need, conserve your energy and be tolerant and patient when things are not done as well as The rest is just execution- which for women is much you would have done them yourself! easier than you think!

“

“

“

“

45

Affinity Magazine August 2012_Layout 1 copy 17/06/2012 08:12 Page 46

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Me, Myself And I

… An Education

“

“

Education

Affinity Magazine August 2012_Layout 1 copy 17/06/2012 07:37 Page 44

Learning about ourselves, is something that is talked about in songs and written about in numerous books and poems.

T

he theme of finding ourselves has been the think? Well for people who are happy, enjoying their lives and relationships and feeling fulfilled, there probably isn’t focus of numerous journeys, real and a great need. metaphorical and the focus of many films and plays. Yet for the majority of people for the But what we know is that there are a lot of people, of every majority of the time we shy away from anything which age, who struggle with might shed light on why we are confidence, have self esteem the way we are. Indeed many people find it very "Formal education will make issues, live with phobias and cravings, suffer from anxiety, uncomfortable to talk about you a living. Self education will have panic attacks or go through themselves in anything other life avoiding all sorts of situations than a superficial way which make you a fortune.” because of their fears. We know concentrates on actions and Jim Rohn (author and motivational speaker) that in our society lots of people events rather than feelings, suffer with depression and other emotions and motives. forms of mental health issues and whilst the underlying But very often it is educating ourselves ABOUT ourselves causes of these are many and varied there are some that that can open us up to all sorts of new possibilities. are due at least in part to the struggles of our inner subconscious self to ‘protect’ us.

So why do we need to learn about ourselves, you may

46

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Whilst the growth in counselling over recent decades has to do is reject others first, before there is a chance they helped lots of people, others shy away from anything themselves will be rejected. which they feel may require them to ‘delve’ into the past.

In some instances it may be This can happen in all sorts of necessary to look back at the relationships, people seem to past, but understanding why get close then someone backs “All should strive to learn before we act in particular ways off, and of course there can be doesn’t mean we need all sorts of reasons for this but they die. What they are counselling, we just need to is certainly that for those running from and to and why?” one get to know ourselves better who have experienced the pain James Thurber (author) and understand a little of why of rejection they will try to we think and sometimes act in avoid getting themselves into a certain ways. position of vulnerability again.

Some years ago a mature student came to see me as she We are learning more and more about how our bodies had applied for many jobs and although on the surface and our minds function and indeed are interrelated – she had the right qualifications and was indeed often increasingly we know that emotional issues can and do called for interview she never seemed to be offered the cause some physical symptoms. In our society we have job. She said she would prepare not always placed much for the interview but despite emphasis on self awareness, rehearsing likely questions and or indeed relaxation or “The only journey is the doing her research on the learning to deal with our own journey within” company she always felt she stress, but over recent Rainer Marie Rilke (poet) messed it up. When we decades we are learning to discussed very briefly why she take some lessons from other thought this may be happening cultures. she said she felt as if she somehow ‘sabotaged’ it but didn’t know why. Very quickly when we discussed the People often say they haven’t time for self discovery and issue further she realised it related to her ex husband who that is a decision to be respected but for people of any age had always felt a little threatened by what he saw as her who are struggling with aspects of their life, work or academic superiority and she knew he wouldn’t cope if relationships then it may be time to devote some time and she were to get a job earning more than him. This energy to learning a little more about themselves. Some relationship was over but some may see it as self indulgence, part of her subconscious was still others may be sceptical or afraid of landing that really good even afraid but learning about “The most difficult thing in job. This realisation of this and the ourselves, why we react in life is to know yourself.” ‘coaching’ which followed meant certain ways, how to calm that she was able to move on and ourselves in situations of Thales (Greek philosopher) has since been employed in a high anxiety, why we may have the earning job and is now happy in a particular fears, or different relationship. compulsions that we do could be the first step towards a happier more confident and fulfilled life.

Although we don’t always realise it our subconscious is always trying to look after us, but not always going the best way about it. A lot of our fears begin as protective instincts but somehow our subconscious gets it a bit wrong and can go quite over the top about things. I often work with children and young people who have experienced rejection, often in quite traumatic circumstances and it is no surprise to anyone that this hurts. As a child of course it is often hard to understand the depth of feeling and whilst obviously upset at the time they are not always given the time and opportunity to deal with these powerful emotions.

What happens for some children is that when they are next in a position of needing to trust others they themselves will do the rejecting. Somewhere in their minds, usually at a subconscious level they know that if they were to be rejected again that would hurt, possibly even more, so the ‘safe’ thing For more information and help with any aspect of study, revision, exams or life coaching:

07921 193479

info@attunededucation.com

www.attunededucation.com

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DAILY TELEGRAPH

Affinity July _Layout 1 copy 14/06/2012 16:19 Page 48

Welcome to the musings of Yummy Mummy. Living in Bedford she is married to ‘The Husband’ and together they have 4 children, Rafferty, 7, Violet, 5, Roman, 3 and baby Clementine.

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

The Annual Sports Day

T

he children are getting tired and argumentative so you know the end of term is around the corner and you will have to find six weeks’ worth of entertainment for them. However before that momentous task arrives waving a cheery hello and looming large - it’s the school sports day!

Just as you think it is all over, out booms the head teacher over the megaphone to announce it is time for the mum’s race and I swear to you, there were already about five mums at the starting line limbering up before the sentence was finished! A glance around the crowd saw a lot of mums looking busy with their children, phones, heads in handbags etc trying to ignore the coaxing. Looking over at Rafferty he had an expectant look on his face, I got up and with my shoes off, I tentatively approached the start.

Luckily I only have the one to endure at the moment, however I dread the day when they are at three different schools. Now don’t get me wrong, I love seeing all the children participate in sporting activities especially that as a family we encourage them to be active and play outside whenever possible. However the real test of endurance is the ‘Mum’s race’!

All lined up I could feel the tension around me so I take a deep breath and put my arm across my chest in anticipation (I am sure the other mums were wearing a sports bra as most of them had stripped down to their Lycra shorts). Such was I in a state of apprehension I missed the shout of ‘Go’ however luckily it was a false start – gosh these mums were keen! Finally the race was underway and I ran as best I could behind the speedy ones and prayed I didn’t fall over – I’m not sure the applause for me would be quite as well meaning as for a 5 year old! I crossed the finishing line feeling elated that I didn’t come last – I know, I know we tell the children that it is all about taking part but, come on, I had to have a shred of dignity left after running bare foot clutching my chest!

My very first sports day for Rafferty arrived and I went along with The Husband armed with snacks and drinks and a few toys to entertain two year old Violet. It was a beautiful sunny day with a slight breeze so we sat on our rug on the school field with a contented Violet - all was good.

Out marched the children in crocodiles with their sun hats on and all looking very sweet. The next hour was a delight watching them compete in various sporting tasks ending with some running races where they all got a sticker for taking part. Who needs the Olympics when you can watch the sporting stars of the future? Of course there was the odd mishap with a child falling over and with his pride hurt more than anything else he cried very loudly, however with the help of a teacher he managed to finish the race to a rapturous round of applause.

Later on the hug and ‘well done Mummy’ I got from my son was better than any gold medal so maybe a little bit of training for this year wouldn’t do any harm!!!

Yummy Mummy 50

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Oak Salad Servers £15 marksandspencer.com

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Affinity Gardening in July

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uly can be a tricky month for gardeners – from April and raspberries are ready to eat and what a delight it is to eat your own home grown produce. Everything is to June the borders are generally at their best, lush coming on thick and fast – use young spinach and purple and full of colour. In July many plants have either finished flowering or are past their best. But there’s plenty you can sprouting broccoli leaves to liven up salads. So far as do to revive a flagging border. Many perennials can be cut tomatoes are concerned, when four or five fruiting trusses have formed it’s time to nip back to allow a second flush out the top middle shoot of flowers. In the case of between two leaves to stop lupins, cut the old flower further top growth. This stems partway down the allows the plant to devote its plant just above new leaf sugar production into the growth. Delphiniums can be remaining trusses. You’ll cut almost to the ground, also need to pinch out any again just above the obvious side shoots in the same way fresh new growth. Many as the top one and hardy geraniums can be cut remember to stake the right back and allowed to plants or they’ll end up as an reflower several times during the summer. Not all varieties unruly mess on the ground. will rebloom but fresh new July’s flower of the month is foliage will grow regardless. geranium psilostemon geranium psilostemon Keep deadheading perennials and summer bedding to (pronounced filostemon) – a hardy perennial, originating from the Himalayas, that sits well in the middle of any prolong their flowering periods. Each time you wander border and grows up to three feet in height. The flowers round your garden make a point of nipping off a few spent are a stunning magenta pink with a black centre. flowers – it doesn’t take much time or effort and really does make a difference.

Flowering from mid June until the end of August, despite its height it doesn’t need staking and is probably my favourite of all the hardy geraniums.

In the fruit and vegetable garden the first strawberries

Affinity loves.....

July tips.... ᴥ If you haven’t done so already prune lilac trees and bushes – this should really be done as soon as they have finished flowering – next year’s flowers will form on this year’s new growth. ᴥ Water your containers and hanging baskets regularly – never let the soil dry out completely and don’t forget to keep dead heading to prolong the flowering period. ᴥ Hoe regularly between crops in the vegetable garden to keep the weeds at bay.

Take your favourite household game outside this summer with the Giant Connect 4! This amazing game stands at 1.1 metres high. £179.95 prezzybox.com

Alison Wallbank The Lady Gardener 01234 782383 or 07795 246558 www.bedfordshiregardendesigners.co.uk

ᴥ Harvest new potatoes when plants are in full flower. Carefully dig a little distance from the stems of the plants and pull the tubers from the ground. Gently fork through the surrounding soil to reveal the rest of the unattached potatoes. ᴥ Feed tomato plants weekly once the first truss of fruit has set.

Make sure they don’t go short of water. Irregular watering results in the skins splitting. ᴥ Remember to keep an eye on slug and snail damage in the garden and treat with your chosen control method as soon as you spot any problems.

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MAN of the Month

Age: 33 ¾ Occupation: Principal, Bedford Free School Resides: Bedford

Describe yourself in three words?

Passionate, energetic, dogged

Where do you see yourself in ten years?

Sat on the roof of the Bedford Free School building, enjoying a cold drink in the sunshine, knowing there are 500 kids in the building below me getting a great education and having a wonderful time in the process.

What makes you stand out in a crowd?

I’m only 5’6”, so probably a stepladder.

Your top three movies?

Se7en – downbeat ending The Shawshank Redemption – upbeat ending The Godfather Part II – an inevitable ending

What three people dead or alive would you invite to a dinner party and why?

Paul Simon – as he is one of my musical heroes and I want him to show me how he does some of those guitar licks…

What do you do to relax?

Read – anything and everything!

P. J. O’Rourke – as he is quite simply still one of the funniest and sharpest writers alive today

Your most extravagant purchase and why?

My wife’s engagement ring. Because she’s worth it…

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

I’d be the man (or woman) who cracks cold nuclear fusion and solves the energy problem forever…

Karl Hayward-Bradley – my best man and best mate – we met when I was at Cambridge, and we’re still geeky schoolboy, always showing off our latest gadgets whenever we get together, and he always makes me laugh

Describe your ideal woman?

If I had not met my wife a decade ago (I have to say that to cover my back)… it would probably be Davina McCall.

What makes you happy?

Watching my daughters playing together (when they’re getting on rather than hitting each other!)

Best Holiday destination and why?

South Devon coast – it’s my one week in the year where I switch off and truly relax, the beaches and countryside are fab, and the weather is normally nice.

Saturday night you can be found where?

Asleep on the sofa, avoiding Saturday night TV

You can’t leave the house without?

Wallet and phone. And if I had to choose between the two of them, phone.

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Carrying the Flame

ou must have been stranded on a desert Island for the last year if you are not aware the opening ceremony for the London 2012 Olympic Games takes place later this month.

The torch visits the four nations of the UK before being carried into the Olympic Stadium in Stratford on July 27 for the opening ceremony of the Games. It will travel 8,000 miles through 1,019 cities, towns and villages, on foot or in convoy, and drop in at UK landmarks like the Giant's Causeway and Stonehenge along the way.

It will be carried by bearers, or

taken in a convoy, and will also be transported by boat, bicycle, tram and train.

The flame, meant to represent purity, was kindled from the rays of the sun using a parabolic mirror in a ceremony on May 10 at Olympia, the home of the ancient Olympic Games.

It was taken on a 1,800-mile relay around Greece before being handed over to the Princess Royal during a rain-soaked ceremony at the Panathenaic Stadium, venue of the first modern Olympics in 1896.

The flame was then handed over to

London to host the Games for the third time since the birth of the Olympics - in 1908, 1948 and now 2012. No other city has staged the Games three times.

Organisers say 95% of the country's population should be within one hour of the route and so it will be a momentous occasion for Bedford residents when on 8 July the Flame reaches Bedford Borough.

Torchbearers will carry the Olympic Flame through the streets of Bedford, including along the Embankment and past Bedford College, shining the spotlight on the people and places of Bedford Borough, a sight not to be missed.

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The Olympic Flame will also be passing through the following local cities, towns and villages on its way into and out of Bedford: Cambridge, St Ives, Huntingdon, Bedford, Cotton End, Letchworth Garden City, Stevenage, Welwyn Garden City, Hatfield, St Albans, Hemel Hempstead, Luton You can view an interactive map at: www.london2012.com/olympicto rchrelaymap to find your nearest community through which the Olympic Flame will be carried.

On the final day of the Olympic Torch Relay, it is LOCOGâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s intention that the Olympic Flame will travel down the River Thames as it makes its way to the Olympic Stadium on 27 July 2012 for the lighting of the cauldron at the Opening Ceremony, signifying the official start of the London 2012 Olympic Games.

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The fastest way to

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Slow Down countryside almost unobserved by the outside world at about 4 MPH. Wildlife is undisturbed as you pass by, giving opportunity to see Herons fishing or Kingfishers in flight. If you are moored along the Towpath you can often see Foxes or Deer and we’ve even seen Crows catching Frogs. There are great fishing opportunities for budding anglers, some of the Canals have Pike and we’ve caught Crayfish before now. Towpaths are great for bike rides or scenic walks, perfect for people with pets and it’s great to light a BBQ when you’ve found your perfect overnight spot.

s a Nation we really know how to celebrate being British, as the fabulous pomp and ceremony of the Queen’s Jubilee in June proved. It’s wonderful to see the Union Flag flying high and the pride of the British public shining through. It’s why so many foreign tourists flock to Britain, for the History and heritage that only we can boast and to be involved with the celebrations, to watch Wimbledon, dress up for a day at Ascot or Henley and cheer the Country during the Olympic Games.

With so much going on it’s a great time to have a holiday in Britain so you don’t have to miss a thing.

There is still a secret part of Britain that’s crying out to be discovered; the watery backbone of transportation in the country’s industrial past, a celebration of our history and the wonderfully British eccentricity of the people who occupy the unnoticed world of the British Canals.

However the main attraction for most boaters are the picturesque canal side pubs, many dating back before the heyday of the industrial revolution when horsedrawn barges plied the waterways carrying their goods.

The beautiful Pubs alongside Locks are busy on sunny days when gongoozlers, people who watch idly from the bank, gather to see the boats as they pass and parents explain to their children how the locks work.

Planning your ‘cruise’ to maximise the use of local watering holes is nearly always top priority as narrowboating is as much about socialising as it is about peace & quiet.

Narrowboat holidays have seen a rise in popularity over the last few years and, as a narrowboater myself, I would describe it as ‘the fastest way to slow down’. You meander through some of Britain’s most beautiful

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Take your pick from the miles of canals of England, Scotland and Wales and even on some rivers like the Wey or The Thames.

Depending where you hire your boat from you can experience Locks, Aqueducts and Tunnels which are part of the fun and add to the adventure. The famous Blisworth Tunnel and Braunston Tunnel on the Grand Union Canal can take 20 minutes to get through, the fascinating flight of Locks at picturesque Stoke Bruerne and Foxton are real crowd pullers and only about an hour’s drive from here. The aqueducts on the Llangollen Canal are now a UNESCO World Heritage site and if you travel north you can explore the Scottish Lochs of the Caledonian Canal and experience the remarkable Falkirk wheel.

There are several different styles of boat and it is important to choose one that is most suitable for you. Hire an attractive traditional style Narrowboat to explore the Historic Canals, or you may prefer a modern Cruiser on the Norfolk Broads and River Thames or even a static Houseboat for waterside living without moving.

Most hire boats have a TV & DVD as well as all the mod cons like cooker, fridge, microwave and hairdryer. Modern facilities and clever use of space means that families are well catered for as you can hire a boat to suit your group size. Some boats accommodate as many as 12 people making it ideal for a family gathering or a friend’s weekend away.

You may be surprised how many young people are attracted to the waterways for Hen & Stag weekends, dressed as pirates or sailors they drunkenly veer across the canal and get disapproving looks from hardened old boaters, but it’s all part of the fun.

You can even hire a romantic Narrowboat for two complete with Four Poster Bed, a honeymoon or anniversary perhaps?

It can be a cheap weekend away from it all, a big family get together , a romantic break or a party cruise and you don’t even have to go far to collect your boat because once you’re onboard it’s a different world.

Speak to Sue at Eagle Travel who knows many of the Canals and can explain the various styles of boat to help you choose the right one to suit your requirements.

Call Sue Alexander of Eagle Travel 01234 348882 sue@eagletravel.co.uk

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Jaguar XKR-S Convertible

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accoutrements. These include a carbon spoiler at the front, a large Mustang-esque wing, mounted on the boot and side skirts running the length of the car. Together, these components work like a plane’s wings, except in reverse, helping to reduce the chances of the car taking off at high speed.

ummer is finally here. Don’t we all dream of driving down a country lane in a convertible, our hair blowing in the wind and not a care in the world?

I have found the car to give you the ultimate indulgence for this - The Jaguar XKR-S Convertible.

Jaguar’s high performance brake kit is fitted as standard with massively better performance as a result. Dropping the roof gets you closer to the sound of the performance active exhaust which can’t be recommended highly enough.

It can reach 186mph, is powered by a 542bhp supercharged V8 and will set you back just over £100,000. Crazy? Yes, Sexy? Yes and Oh so cool!

Here’s a car that Jaguar has tested at 186mph with the roof down, has a better power to weight ratio than an Aston Martin DBS and which will roar around any race track faster than a 911 GT3. It’s the quickest ever droptop Jaguar, The race to 60mph comes and goes in 4.2 seconds and 100mph is reached in just 4.4 seconds later.

It takes 18 seconds for the electrically powered roof to fold flat. Once it’s folded you get a great view of the XKRS’s bespoke contrast stitched leather sports seats, which feature integrated head rests and racing harness cut outs.

A three-spoke leather-trimmed steering wheel with paddleshifters, Jaguar-embossed stainless steel pedals, carbonfibre trim and gloss black centre console further enhance the car's cabin.

But, do you really need a convertible car with a 542bhp supercharged V8 that’s capable of 186mph? No. Do you want one? Wow, Yes! Apart from the gaping hole where the lid used to be, the XKR-S convertible is virtually identical to the XKR-S coupe. In other words, it has a sleek, athletic body that has been festooned with several aerodynamic

The final result is an open topped Jaguar like no other.

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Guaranteed to make us all smile!

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Destiny

Discover your.......

Sue has over 30 years experience in the psychic field, is an authority on crystals and psychic energy, and is a world renowned Tarot reader and teacher. Each month readers are welcome to send their questions in for Sue to answer at info@affinitymag.co.uk Sue also offers private readings on a one to one basis, workshops, courses and much more, please visit her website: www.sanctuarybedford.co.uk Tel: 01234 327090

Readers questions I have just started a new job, but am unsure if it's the right career path to follow, and if it's not I am at a loss as to what to do, can you give me some advice Thank you Alex The cards are certain that while there is another path for you later in life, the present job can lead to a feeling of fulfilment, more money around you and lead you to your next opportunity, with upward movement within 18 months, while waiting for another job to surface now will lead to low self esteem, lowering bank accounts and a more difficult Autumn and Christmas. All in all I would take the job.

just had someone apply recently, they look very good on paper, are they as good in reality?

Jessica Not quite as good in reality, Jessica but they have the sense to know what you want, which is at least a start, the cards suggest with a little involvement alongside you, they would fill the position admirably, but shouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t at first be left to their own devices, until they have settled in.

I am married with two children and think that maybe another child would make our family complete although my husband disagrees, what do you see happening for me?

Joanna The pregnancy could go ahead if you were adamant, but your partner is at the time in his life where he begins to want to be able to see that he has some time with you and you alone, sometime in the not so distant future, so that you can both follow the original plan that you had when you started your life together.

He cannot handle more early mornings and sleepless nights, and for the last few years he has slowly felt that he was getting more of you back as the demands of the children were lessened.

Basically the cards tell me that if you were insistent you could have your other child, but you would be unlikley to have the relationship with your husband that you have now.

The future as it pans out now, (without you insisting on change) has no more children for you, but still a good, fulfilling and happy future.

My house seems to constantly have a negative energy about it, my partner is quite a negative person anyway and so this just makes it worse, is there anything I can do to make it better?

Debs There are some people who only seem happy when they are making others miserable, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get drawn into this because misery breeds misery, trying to make a negative person positive is very hard, but sometimes negativity comes from low self esteem, with these people having to make others feel bad so that they themselves feel bigger and better.. Put a salt lamp in the house, smudge the house with sage, and when arguments happen, try to move away from them. Eventually you will feel when they are coming and be able to avoid them, rather than being part of them.

I run my own business and have been trying to recruit some staff for a while now. I am finding it very difficult to find the right person although I have

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fear which can set in with the cold spots encountered in homes, and things moving of their own accord, or appearing from nowhere with clatters and bangs, or of course the sound of footsteps when no one else is around, will choose to have a home cleared of spirits, for a families peace of mind.

here has been a lot of talk of ghosts this month, and television programmes and films are immensely popular in this genre.

So what differs between spiritual connection, and hauntings?

A spiritual connection is where a medium connects with someone by choice, and shows proof of continuance of existence after death, with a spirit crossing over the divide between life and death to make contact with loved ones. Mediums will often seek connection through something which the person who has ‘passed over’ has had a personal feel for in life, so many will ask for a photograph, or something that the loved one has written or owned.

This is usually done with sage, incense, salt and prayer for the spirit to see the light.

Sometimes accompanied by the ringing of bells and , if the spirit is difficult to remove demands for it to leave in the name of a deity.

Houses which have had spirits removed can however seem a little empty at first, so the suggestion to fill the home with happy people and new feelings is a way to counteract this rather emotionless feeling.

A ghostly haunting is different in that the spirit dos not ‘return’ to this earthly realm, but has not crossed over to the light, and is in effect trapped this side of death in a spiritual twilight zone. Many ghosts have been spoken of for centuries, described as performing in the same way by people lifetimes apart, as if they had been viewing the hauntings together. These ghosts are somehow trapped as a record of an event within the essence of land or a building, often by a traumatic death, or a feeling that they have not finished a life task.

Building work or land excavation can often stir up a string of ghostly happenings from a previously dormant ghost.

These enlightened days, many households which have encountered ghostly happenings will just accept their visitors, like some kind of badly behaved uncle at a wedding, but others who cannot get over the realms of

At Sanctuary we have three residents ‘ghosts’ not counting my spirit guides, including a blonde Edwardian lady in a blue silk dress, a young lad, and a gentleman in a leather apron.

The psychic awareness classes which I run are often waylaid by the sound of footprints walking heavily on the floors above, sounding so normal that we have had to prove to our classes that no human foot was in the building of the locked business above us.

Personally I feel that if spirits are not chained to this earth, the diversity that they add to an otherwise normal life is worth a few heart stopping moments. I would be very sad to see a world without its haunting apparitions and Ghosts.

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

What’s On July 2012

Sun 1st July – Thur 30th August Summer Opening Season at Althorp Althorp is delighted to welcome visitors to explore the house, stroll through the park and relax in the beautiful gardens. Explore nineteen rooms in the house, including some of the Spencer Family’s private apartments.

Discover magnificent interiors and one of Europe’s finest private collections of furniture, paintings and photographs, and ceramics - the result of one family’s uninterrupted occupation for over 500 years.

Open daily from 11am - 5pm Adult Day Ticket: £13.00. Concession Day Ticket: £11.00.

Althorp, Northamptonshire NN7 4HQ

on the podium! www.silverstone.co.uk or call 0844 3728 300.

Sat 7th July Roald Dahl Festival and Roald Dahl Games Celebrating its tenth anniversary, this year’s Roald Dahl Festival will be the biggest yet!

01296 585206 Sat 7th July Langford Family Fete 1pm – 4.30pm A great day out for the family, with the usual Craft stalls, Children’s rides, Barbecue, Magic show, Dance and Sports displays (this year including a Tennis fun afternoon), Trade displays, Bouncy castle, Licensed bar, food stalls and other refreshments and many other attractions

Sun 1st July Bedford Armed Forces Day - 10am – 4pm Step back into the 1940’s. Come along and see a parade of WWII military and civilian vehicles parade from De parys avenue at 10.30am along with veterans, cadet forces and lead by pipes and drums. There will be a static display on Harpur square in Bedford along with musical entertainment plus lots more.

Sat 7th – Sun 8th July Wimbledon The Embankment Hotel, Bedford Screening of the big matches on our big screen as soon as the tournament starts. Why not get into the sporting spirit? Turn up to any game in tennis whites and we’ll give you a FREE glass of Pimm’s.

Ladies' Singles Final is on Saturday 7th July.

Men's Singles Final is on Sunday 8th July

Sun 1st July Grimm Fairy Tales – 5.30pm If you go into the woods this summer... The Brothers Grimm spin tales of wicked witches, talking animals, plucky maidens and dashing adventurers in this deliciously dark and thrillingly inventive open-air show for adults and children alike.

Box office: 01832 205358 Lyveden New Bield, Nr Oundle Northants PE8 5AT

Sat 7th – Sun 8th July Bedfordshire County Show 9.30am – 6.00pm The Mansion House, Old Warden Park This show boasts a wealth of attractions and fantastic entertainment for all the family including animal shows, clay shooting, archery, falconry, funfair, dog show, crafts and much more www.bedfordshirecountyshow.co.uk

Mon 2nd – Sat 7th July Murder on the Nile Milton Keynes Theatre Now in its seventh sensational year, the Agatha Christie Theatre Company presents a stylish new production of the Queen of crime’s classic thriller Murder On The Nile.

On board a steamer, cruising under the scorching Egyptian sun, honeymooners Simon Mostyn and his wealthy socialite wife Kay find themselves being pursued by an old flame of the newly-wedded groom.

Then tragedy strikes. www.atgtickets/Miltonkeynes / 0844 871 76532

Sun 8th July Olympic Torch Runs Along The Embankment Join us at The Embankment Hotel in Bedford for tea, coffee and delicious bacon baps on the patio between 8am and 12pm.

Sun 8th July MG Saloon Day 10am Shuttleworth Collection, Old Warden Aerodrome Static car show, organised by MG ‘M’ Group and MGCC Zed Register The national event dedicated to MG, Austin and Rover models of car, old and new. £8 per car

Fri 6th – Sun 8th July Formula 1 Santander British Grand Prix Fans can look forward to another weekend full of great racing, awesome entertainment and maybe even a Brit

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DA 20 Entr

Pay in a £5pp d £15pp Additio Tickets £6pp d £20pp Additio kids un to purc to kids

Kids Bunge Rodeo Bounc Bounc Face p Puppe

Refr

Food S Bar Cockta Dema This ye

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SUMMER AT THE EMBANKMENT

Sun 8th July Castle Ashby Gardens - Open Garden for NGS 25-acres within a 10,000 acre estate of both formal and informal gardens, incl Italian gardens with orangery and arboretum with lakes, all dating back to the 1860s.

Admission £5, Children £4.50 (Children U10 free).

01604 695200 Sun 8th July Bromham Show 12.30pm - 5pm Come along to our annual village show and enjoy all the fun of traditional village show activities. The Bedford Pipe & Drum Band, mini Olympics, mini football and much more. On the field – large craft marquee, birds of prey, children’s bouncy inflatables, classic cars, food outlets, trade and commercial stands and for a second time the popular ‘get creative’ section, where boys and Dads can buy and build a Spitfire Airfix kit with a prize awarded for the builder of the day. A very special event will be a flypast by a Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Spitfire aircraft, something not to be missed. www.bromhamshow.com

DAXTONBURY 2012 13th & 14th of July Entrance cost per person:

Pay in advance for discounted ticket price £5pp day pass £15pp weekend pass inc camping Additional £20 per caravan Tickets bought on the gate: £6pp day pass £20pp weekend pass inc camping Additional £25 per caravan. kids under 12 have free entrance but need to purchase a wrist band for unlimited access to kids area- Wristbands are £5pp

Kids Area Includes: Bungee run Rodeo bull Bouncy castles Bouncy assault course Face painting Puppet shows

Daxtonbury is back again for the 4th year running & this year its better than ever!

This is a charitable event held in memory of our dear friend, Chris Kelly who we lost in 2009 All proceeds will be donated towards a Cancer related Charity Last year we raised an amazing £2690.54. Sadly its hard to find anyone who s lives have not been affected by this disease in some way so lets try & beat last years Total... Lifes for living so come & live it!

Live Music DJs Shooting Range

Come & test your reflexes with our instructors: Clay pigeon shooting Rifle shooting Catapult shooting

Dog Assault Course

Bring your own dog or borrow one of ours & see if you Can work the dog around the course or if the dog ends Up working you around the course!

Novice Dog Scurry

Put your dog through its paces & see how quickly they Can retrieve- Non gun dogs welcome too!

Quad Bike Course

Refreshments

Food Stand Bar Cocktail bar- Following popular Demand THE LOVE BOAT returns This year!

Your Help

We need support from local businesses and donations From people to raise the funds for holding the Daxtonbury festival; all profits are donated to a Cancer related charity.

Please make donations/sponsorships Payable to:

DAXTONBURY CHRIS KELLY CANCER TRUST And send to: Pauline Cossar 13 Pilgrims way Bedford MK42 9TU TEL: 07762748745 or 01234 403678 Email: daxtonbury@hotmail.co.uk THANK YOU

How to find us:

Airfield Road, Podington NN29 7XA Drive to the end of airfield road, past Santa Pods Main gates & follow arrows for aprox half a mile To the Daxtonbury Venue.

Fri 13th July Wham Tribute Night Whittlebury Hall Hotel & Spa Enjoy an evening of floor fillers with popular hits such as Young Guns, Club Tropicana, Bad Boys, I’m Your Man and Wake Me Up Before You Go Go, to make the perfect party night out with the UK’s No.1 Wham tribute night.

Dance the night away and enjoy the fun, from just £49 per person www.whittleburyhall.co.uk / 0845 400 0003

Mon 16th – Tues 17th July The Gruffalo Bedford Corn Exchange Voted the nation’s number one bedtime story by BBC Radio 2 listeners, www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk 01234 269519 Sat 21st – Sun 22nd July Bedford River Festival Staged on the picturesque Victorian Embankment, Promenade, the River Great Ouse and in Russell Park, the Festival is a unique combination of the carnival, the musical, and of course, the nautical!

Fri 27th July The Rat Pack Vegas Spectacular It’s fun all the way as the "Purveyors of Cool” come to town, with a sensational show featuring the greatest music of the 20th Century. Wonderful memories of Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin & Sammy Davis Junior in a fabulous production that continues to be successful all over the world. www.atgtickets/miltonkeynes 0844 871 76532 Fri 27th July Olympic Opening Ceremony Party – 9pm – 1am The Embankment, Bedford Join us for a New Year's Eve Style British Themed Fancy Dress Opening Ceremony Party to mark the start of the Olympics. Dress to impress or come in fancy dress - the choice is yours. The opening ceremony will be showing on the big screen TV and there’ll be a Best of British buffet to tuck into, as well as great entertainment from the Take That Tribute Band Places are limited so please call today to reserve yours on the guest list; 01234 261332 Sun 29th July NRSA Hot Rod Supernationals 10am – 5pm The Mansion House, Old Warden Park This is a must for UK hot rod enthusiasts. Showcasing some of the most unique hot rod cars in the country along with great family entertainment, including a funfair, trade stalls and bar. You are certain to have a fantastic day out.

Adults £8, Children over 5 £4 Pleases check our facebook page for all winners of the June Bonanza Giveaway www.facebook.com/pages/Affinity-Magazine

If you have an event you would like us to mention please email jane@affinitymag.co.uk

Affinity July _Layout 1 copy 14/06/2012 16:28 Page 72

A quiet night in.......

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ne fateful summer morning in 1986, two eleven-year-old girls meet for the first time and by the end of the day are charged with murder.

Twenty-five years later, journalist Kirsty Lindsay is reporting on a series of sickening attacks on young female tourists in a seaside town when her investigation leads her to interview funfair cleaner Amber Gordon. For Kirsty and Amber, it's the first time they've seen each other since that dark day when they were just children. But with new lives - and families - to protect, will they really be able to keep their wicked secret hidden?

I get through some great books but this one really blew me away. I wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t tell you what happens next but I will tell you that I could not put this book down. It is full of unexpected twists and turns that will leave you gaping at Alex Marwoodâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ingenuity. This is a psychological thriller which jumps off the page, grabs you and takes you on a roller-coaster ride of emotions.

DVD release Latest cinema release

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eter Parker (Andrew Garfield) is your typical awkward teenager, struggling to find his way in the world. Abandoned by his parents as a boy, he's been raised by his uncle Ben (Martin Sheen) and aunt May (Sally Field). Like many teens, he's also dealing with the joys and pains of first love, having fallen for beautiful schoolmate Gwen Stacy (Emma Stone). But as Peter is about to discover, he is anything but a normal teen.

Finding a mysterious briefcase left by his father, he unravels the secret of his destiny as Spider-Man and embarks on a quest that leads to sinister Dr. Curt Connors (Rhys Ifans). The stage is set for a spectacular showdown with Connors' terrifying alter-ego - The Lizard! British actor Andrew Garfield brings a completely fresh approach to Spider-Man opposite his real-life girlfriend Emma Stone in this incredible reboot.

Release Date: 6th July 2012

M

ark Wahlberg leads the cast of Contraband, a fast-paced thriller about a man trying to stay out of a world he worked so hard to leave behind and the family he'll do anything to protect.

Chris Farraday (Wahlberg) long ago abandoned his life of crime, but after his brother-in-law, Andy (Caleb Landry Jones), botches a drug deal for his ruthless boss, Tim Briggs (Giovanni Ribisi), Chris is forced back into doing what he does best-- running contraband--to settle Andy's debt. Chris is a legendary smuggler and quickly assembles a crew with the help of his best friend, Sebastian (Ben Foster), for one final run to Panama and back, hoping to return with millions in counterfeit bills. Things quickly fall apart and with only hours to reach the cash, Chris must use his rusty skills to successfully navigate a treacherous criminal network of brutal drug lords, cops and hit men before his wife, Kate (Kate Beckinsale), and sons become their target.

Release Date: 9th July 2012

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A Friendly Welcome Awaits The Victoria Arms is under new management and has been refurbished

Home cooked food is served daily with a variety of specials on offer Monthly Curry Night 2nd Thursday of every month Only £6.95

A wonderful variety of cask ales, lagers and wines Why not just pop in for tea or coffee Sunday lunch is between Noon and 6pm at only £8.95 (adults) and £4.50 (children)

“Relaxed Dining at it’s Best”

The Victoria Arms, High Street, Wilden 01234 772437

Affinity Magazine July 2012 Cover_Layout 1 copy 14/06/2012 16:43 Page 1

JULY 2012

ISSUE 14

July 2012

Whittlebury Hall & Spa

Special readers pamper offer

Festival Fabulous

MILLMAN

Jewellers of Distinction Another exciting new range now in store

2 Church Arcade Bedford TEL 01234 354026

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