July2014

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JULY 2014 ISSUE 38

FREE

AFFINITY LUXURY LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

ANOTHER EXCITING NEW RANGE

www.affinitymag.co.uk

July 2014

Summertime Special

Travel, Al Fresco Dining, Fashion & Beauty, we have it all

Mental health

and how to look after it

It’s here...

The Aqua Sana has arrived at Woburn Forest

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

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What does your kitchen mean to you?

NEVER UNDERSOLD POLICY

we will not be beaten on price for a true ‘like for like’ package

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Welcome...

Summer is well and truly here, which means the sun is shining (we hope), nights are longer, we indefinitely feel better about ourselves, we socialise more, and we just love Al fresco dining, what is it about eating and drinking outside that gets us so excited?

So with all this summer talk we thought we had better give you some sunny inspiration, page 46 brings you a great BBQ recipe along with the perfect bottles of fizz to accompany any outside eating adventure, page 40 gives you the chance to win your very own BBQ meat hamper from Royal Rich Foods packed with a variety of produce perfect for any outdoor dining!

And finally, it officially opened last month and we are raving about it! The Aqua Sana at Center Parc’s Woburn Forest, a haven of peace and tranquility - page 22 tells you more!

Have a Funtastic July

Jane x

Looking for somewhere to escape to whether it be a night away or longer we have a great choice Luton Hoo Hotel, Golf and Spa page 70. A little touch of the wild west at The Lodge, a luxury dude ranch in Saratoga, Wyoming page 68, and the ultimate in luxury The Elounda Beach Hotel’s luxurious new Yachting Club Villas in north-eastern Crete page 72.

Cover Image: Victoria’s Secret

Editor: Jane Fry jane@affinitymag.co.uk 01234 215523 - 07507 602401 Advertising Manager: Julia Crofts Beds / Northants julia@affinitymag.co.uk 07966 696784 Advertising Manager: Jean Winfield Milton Keynes / Bucks affinity@jeaniusconsulting.com 01908 827340 - 07970702443 Graphic Design and Photography: David Zita dave@affinitymag.co.uk www.affinitymag.co.uk

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All adverts are printed in good faith. Affinity cannot take responsibility for the content of adverts. Advertisements are accepted on the understanding that descriptions of goods and services are accurate. Reproduction in whole or in part is strictly prohibited.Printed in the UK by Regal Litho 01908 270400

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CONTENTS 12 Inner Me beauty 16 Goodbye stretchmarks 20 Treatment of the month

59 62 26 Midlife madness 67 33 Hot picks 38 Looking after mental health 74 76

44 Dim sum delight 51 Life’s a beach 56 Trusted traveller

Fry’s footie corner Anyone for Bentley Duvet den fun Rock of ages What’s on

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Do you suffer from Cold Sores?

A

s many as 1 in 5 of us in the UK are troubled by recurring cold sores. Most commonly found on the face, around and in the mouth. They are painful and many find the ailment embarrassing, particularly when the area is red fluid filled blisters which are inflamed and highly visible, once the fluid drains it forms a crusty covering whilst the skin heals. They’re caused by the Herpes simplex virus, or HSV1 and research in Edinburgh has suggested a genetic link, leading to a deficiency in a certain protein which blocks the development of the virus.

Thyme, and Neem, to mention just a few. Taking a herbal formula for 3 months or so can help to reduce the regularity of out breaks.

Apply zinc cream with a drop of eucalyptus/clove oil, or Aloe Vera gel at the first sign of tingling.

Some Dietary Recommendations: Drink a tea made of fresh ginger, ½ teaspoon cinnamon and 1 teaspoon coriander seeds after eating.

Avoid foods with L-Arginine, which promote the virus and potentially activates it.

These include peanuts, blackberries, soy, wheat, seafood, pumpkin and sunflower seeds. And, absolutely no chocolate!! Also steer clear of citrus fruit, sugar, alcohol, and yeast during infection and whilst recovering from an attack.

We usually catch the virus during childhood, and it lies dormant within the body for the majority of us. But it’s triggered during a period of prolonged stress or illness, when the immune system is at a low ebb and is unable to keep on top of the virus. The sun or a kiss from someone with an active cold sore can also trigger an attack for someone susceptible to the virus. On average, they take around 10 days to clear-up of their own accord. However, there is a lot we can do to keep attacks to a minimum by boosting the immune system and then speeding-up the healing during an outbreak.

In this instance I always offer a preventative, which includes vitamin C supplements with bioflavonoid, the mineral Zinc and an amino acid – a simple building block of protein - called L-Lysine. The doses are then increased during an outbreak, along with application of Aloe Vera gel, which is a great anti-viral - as well as zinc cream with added Eucalyptus and clove oils, which can be applied at the first sign of tingling. Over laid with these supplements, there are many herbs which have wonderful anti-viral properties, including Echinacea,

Whilst L-Lysine can really help in the suppression of the virus, eating a predominantly vegetarian diet with lots of fruits, vegetables and soups with a little chicken, fish and lamb and some light dairy products, such as live yoghurt and buttermilk (avoid cheese, with the exception of cottage cheese). Include in your diet Brewer‘s yeast, mung beans and beans. Eat Pineapple which clears infection from the gut. Pears contain caffeic acid which has anti-viral properties, so drink the juice and eat the fruit freely.

Take an antiviral herbal formula for around three months.

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Carolyn Woods Herbalist and Naturopath 07944886502 www.vedatherapeutics.co.uk

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The Latest Beauty Craze from

Inner Me Inner Me is a stylish supplements brand aiming to transform the appeal of the vitamin market to healthconscious women in the UK. The current range provides carefully blended vitamin complexes and supplements to promote healthy skin, glossy hair, strong nails, increased energy and improved digestion – things we could all do with in today’s hectic world.

Beautify Me - a potent composite with Marine Collagen a super ingredient that improves the appearance of skin whilst reducing wrinkles, leaving you with an overall g l o w i n g complexion.

Beautify Me ensures your hair, skin and nails are as healthy as can be.

The collection includes - Beautify Me, Lustrous Locks and Beauty & the Green Coffee Bean.

Beauty & the Green Coffee Bean - a uniquely blended diet supplement.

Offering high potency ingredients that work in perfect harmony to support cell growth whilst helping to protecting the skin from free radicals; responsible for speeding up the ageing process.

The little capsules are all made in the UK in a GMP facility to ensure quality and safety is of the highest standard.

They are also made from HPMC (Hydroxy Propyl Methyl Cellulose), which makes them suitable for Vegetarians and Vegans. The capsules are easy to swallow and free from preservatives, artificial sweeteners, sugars, artificial colours and flavourings.

Founder of Inner Me, Nikki Cooper, who has worked tirelessly for the past three years to fine-tune and blend high potency, natural vitamin complexes and supplements comments on her Beautify Me and Lustrous Locks creation:

Lustrous Locks - a vitamin mineral complex featuring ingredients that work in sync to aid cell and hair growth, resulting in stronger and healthier hair.

‘The “you are what you eat” philosophy not only applies to our overall health and nutrition, but how our skin looks and feels as well. I am proud that with ingredients such as marine collagen, biotin and vitamin C, our Beautify Me Pro Skin is the first natural step to building the healthy foundations for your skin.’

‘When it comes to healthy hair it is not just what you put on your tresses that counts, it is what you put in your body too. Our formula contains several fabulous fortifying nutrients for feeding those follicles into Lustrous Locks.’

Price: £15 for a two week supply 12

www.innerme.co.uk

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Sensational Summer Beauty Tips

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Amanda Elias, beauty expert and founder of Bravura London shares her top tips with Affinity readers for a skin-friendly Summer.

1 - The first thing you want to think about is sun protection; the sun is the main cause of premature ageing which can leave your skin dull, dry, wrinkled and with hyperpigmentation (brown spots). Protect all exposed skin with a broad spectrum SPF (protects against both UVA & UVB) of at least 30, preferably a mineral SPF which acts as a sunblock to instantly block the sun’s rays. Look for a product that’s waterproof and don’t forget your lips, ears and the back of your neck. Re-apply frequently.

2 - You may know about cleansing, exfoliating and moisturising your face but do you spend as much TLC on your body? Ensure you exfoliate at least twice a week and if possible, slather yourself daily (after your shower) in your favourite body lotion.

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3 - Do you find your skin flushes when you get hot?

Keep a refreshing water spray or toner spray at hand to spritz your face and neck when you feel yourself overheating.

4 - Avoid wearing perfumes on your skin; when the sun hits the areas of skin that contain perfumes it can cause irritation. Fragrance your hair by spraying your hairbrush then brush through your locks, every time you swish your hair you’ll be surrounded by a beautiful fragrance.

5 - Sun and lip gloss aren’t a good combination, remember the days of people baking in the sun covered in baby oil? Same thing. Get yourself a good lip balm that contains an SPF, you can get plenty that have colour or line your lips with a lip pencil then top with a clear SPF balm.

6 - Parched skin after too much alcohol and sun?

Intensely nourish your skin with an oil such as jojoba oil, this non-comedogenic (won’t block your pores) oil is more of a wax and is close to your skin’s natural oil.

For sun burnt skin, help the healing process with pure aloe vera gel and apply 3-4 times a day.

Aloe Pura Aloe Vera Gel £3.05 Superdrug

7 - Don’t forget to hydrate yourself, to keep your body functioning properly; to aid the removal of toxins from our body it needs to be well hydrated so be sure to drink 2-3 litres of liquid (sadly this doesn’t include dehydrating substances such as cocktails and coffee) per day.

Elemis Body Scrub £28.50 timetospa.co.uk

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6 7

3 5

Evian Facial Spray £6.95 Debenhams

Vitamin E Lip Care SPF Balm £4.00 The Body Shop

Aloe Pura Aloe Vera Gel £3.05 Superdrug

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Nivea Body Lotion £2.99 Boots

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Goodbye Stretchmarks I

salon, just two lots of ten minutes a day, six weeks later and the moment of truth. What if it hadn’t worked was I to smile sweetly at my friend and tell her a lie so I didn’t hurt her feelings?

’m a beauty product skeptic, in my job you have to be.

I’m constantly being told about another miracle product that’s going to make me look 21 again or make my thighs as smooth as a baby’s bottom, so when a friend of mine announced she’d become a Nu Skin distributor and that she had the ultimate beauty product that claimed to rejuvenate the complexion, reduce body cellulite and stimulate hair growth, I was just a little dubious!

Well I didn’t need to do that because this little hand held device is magic it does exactly as it says on the tin and more. Now to do the other side so I don’t look uneven when I’m laying on that beach this summer (I can but dream)

So to put my skepicism to the test I decided to use this small hand held device on something many women will empathise with me about ‘Stretch Marks’!

I have given into tempatation and bought the Galvanic Spa device .... why? Well it works, it is fast and it multitasks (as well as stretch marks it can be used on the face, on the body to tackle cellulite and sagging arms and so much more.), This routine can be added to anyone’s day, offering all the benefits of a spa treatment but at home – I do believe Nu Skin® has unlocked the future of skin care!

I was advised to only treat half my stomach – so I could do a comparison and compare both sides (avoid this if you’re going on holiday!) It was decided I would do a six week block of two lots of ten minutes a day!! Which is what I did, religiously morning and afternoon.

Price for this miracle machine is £395, which includes the gels.

I applied a little of the Nu Skin Body Shaping Gel and rubbed the machine over my stomach; what effectively happens is the powerful but gentle vibrations from the Galvanic Body Spa gently pulsates, leaving your skin highly receptive to the absorption of Nu Skin’s advanced ageLOC anti-aging ingredients deep into the skin. The vibrating effect of the Galvanic Body Spa stimulates the movement of fluid to purify and refresh the skin, allowing more nutrients to be delivered to the skin cells and breaks down fatty deposits.

SPECIAL OFFER: Mention AFFINITY and receive 15% off this price For more info, to test or purchase this product or discuss further, please contact: Beauty by Roxanne 07872146804 www,beautybyroxanne.co.uk

Voila! that is it, no pain, no hours lying on a couch in a 16

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

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

As a herbalist and naturopath I can help you with

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

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

01234 302408 07701 086394

www.brightnclean.co.uk

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BBC Good Food’s

Summer Diet

F

Plan

ollowing the success of January's free 28-day Healthy Diet Plan bbcgoodfood.com, the UK's leading food website, is launching a Summer Diet Plan to help you slim down, achieve glowing skin and boost energy with the help of an original 9-day plan full of delicious breakfasts, lunches and dinners.

Those who sign up will receive regular motivation in the form of newsletters packed with tips and advice on how to make the most of the plan, as well as access to Q&As with experts including author Jennifer Irvine, nutritional therapist and Food Doctor founder Ian Marber and BBC Good Food's cookery team and nutrition advisers.

Experts advise that a healthy diet should be balanced and followed all year round with this nine day plan, designed to kick-start healthy habits and help you to quickly see the benefits of healthy eating. The plan was written by author and Pure Package founder Jennifer Irvine and overseen and tested by BBC Good Food's cookery team and nutritionist, Kerry Torrens.

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The nine days are split into three stages, each with a specific goal. Jennifer explains how the plan works and what you can expect over the nine days:

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For an added antioxidant boost, drink green tea several times a day, as well as maintaining your water intake to ensure all toxins are being flushed from the body.''

Day 7-9: Boost energy and metabolism ''These last three days are designed to leave you feeling refreshed, energetic and body-aware. The recipes focus on stabilising and balancing your blood-sugar levels with protein-rich snacks and meals that include protein.

Combined with good (unsaturated and polyunsaturated) fats, this slows down the release of sugars into the blood and leaves you feeling satiated, but not overly full. ''

Magnesium and B vitamins are vital for converting foods to energy. Our recipes include eggs, spinach, lamb’s lettuce, whole grains, chickpeas, mackerel and lamb, and have been designed for their energy-giving properties, as well as for the relaxing properties associated with magnesium.

Finally, now that you’re in great shape from the food, add some physical exercise into your day to channel your extra energy, and help control your weight. Walking, swimming, dancing - whatever you enjoy, exercise triggers the production of serotonin – the feelgood hormone that helps you glow even more!''

Day 1-3: De-bloat ''Bloating is a common side effect of an unhealthy diet, usually triggered by refined carbohydrates and sugar.

Eliminating these foods will tackle bloat and prepare your body for an overall cleanse.

Sign up to the Summer Diet Plan now: www.bbcgoodfood.com/howto/guide/bbc-goodfoods-summer-diet-plan

Plenty of whole-grains keep you feeling full, while yogurt will help reset the balance of good bacteria in your digestive system, making sure your food is better absorbed.''

Just as important as what you eat and drink, is how you do it. The plan helps ease your body into the cleansing process with cooked and soaked foods, rather than raw, which is harder to digest. This is also the time to get your eight glasses of water a day to thoroughly hydrate yourself.

While you’re making this change to your diet, be kind to yourself - set aside eating time, when you can relax and focus on your food. Chew slowly and deliberately, and enjoy the wonderful flavours and textures.''

Day 4-6: Glowing skin ''Our largest organ needs proper nurturing and nourishment from within. Fatty acids (particularly omega 3), Vitamin E and Vitamin C are essential for its’ care and maintenance. These meals are packed with ingredients rich in these fats and nutrients, such as oats, spinach, nuts, seeds, salmon and avocado.''

Our skin’s health is supported by good liver function, and citrus fruits play an important role, as they’re highly alkaline and are known to promote liver detoxification.

Antioxidants are a must, which you’ll find in the range of colourful leafy greens, sweet peas, fresh herbs, peppers and beetroot.

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Treatment of the Month

Therapeutic Bamboo Massage I

Using a combination of long and short bamboo canes and relaxing massage oil, the bamboo massage is devised to put you in a deeper state of calm, leaving you thoroughly refreshed from head to toe and it certainly did that!

was going to be hit with sticks!!! Well that was my interpretation of the newest treatment on offer at Essence of Beauty in Bedford!

How wrong could I be?

Whether your tight muscles are caused by stress, exercise, injury, or simply sitting at the computer all day, this Bamboo Massage will melt away even your most stubborn knots and tension.

The Therapeutic Bamboo Massage is a unique new therapy that relaxes tight muscles – instantly and painlessly! It’s an effective way to release stress and tension, relieve aches and pains, loosen tight muscles, and simply relax you.

The 30 minute back massage left me feeling refreshed, rejuvenated, and renewed – a sensation that lasted long after the massage was over; once you’ve experienced this specialist massage you will book another time and time again!

With Warm Bamboo the results go deeper and last longer than other massage techniques.

I was slightly concerned this would be a little too ‘intense’ for my liking; I know kneading the knots in my back is beneficial, but I much prefer the light touch! However, Nadia assured me she could apply as much or as little pressure as I wanted, so, of course I opted for little! Showing me the custom-made bamboo tools, which were warming in a special blanket and are specifically made to glide over the body, she reassured me I would feel no pain!

The Therapeutic Bamboo Massage is £30 for a 30 minute back massage or £55 for a 60 minute full body massage.

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Essence of Beauty 01234 212 149 www.essenceofbeautybedford.co.uk

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Another World at

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ll good things come to those who wait and the much anticipated opening of Center Parcs new £17.5m Aqua Sana has certainly been worth waiting for. Located at the heart of the newly opened Center Parcs, Woburn Forest in Bedfordshire this simply stunning new 7,000sqm spa has the potential to be a game changer for spa seekers.

Inspired by nature and combining different approaches from many of the leading European spas, it offers a host of experiential innovations in an unintimidating and beautiful setting, allowing you to relax, unwind, feel radiant and renewed.

We all deserve time for ourselves to

recharge our batteries, indulge and simply relax and Aqua Sana has created somewhere to do just that, a truly relaxing experience with unique, natureinspired spas to journey through, this new spa is the first of its kind in Europe. It boasts 25 experience rooms where Spa visitors can choose experiences from six unique and sensuous spas to create their own journey.

I didn’t need any persuasion when I was invited along to experience this unique spa for myself.

After refreshments in the bright and airy Vitalé Café Bar; I headed off to change into my robe and slippers and explore this amazing spa for myself.

Aqua Sana

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The six spas are; Fire and Ice, Mineral and Gemstone, Blossom, Herbal, Sensory and Salt; each one with a variety of multi-sensory experience rooms, two of which are the first of their kind in the world, being uniquely designed with the latest innovations and restorative benefits, the focus being on clearing the mind and body of stress.

It is recommended you start your journey with a Reflexology Footbath, so I did - the bubbles stimulate reflex zones on the bottom of your feet which in turn relaxes the whole body.

From here I visited the Blossom Spa an aesthetic inspiration, this spa uplifts your spirit. The aroma of floral essences and beautiful design relax your body and balance your energy. Subtle changes will emerge as layers of multisensory effects gently shift your heart and mind, embracing you into deeper relaxation, it is pure heaven, you feel all the stresses and strains just drop away as your body becomes more and more relaxed as you make your way around Next stop, The Herbal Spa; this was one of my favourites, the aroma of herbs is just divine, the beautiful rooms uplift your spirit and open your mind.

Vitality washes over you completely for deep relaxation. It is a known fact that herbs can nurture the soul whilst they soothe and relax your body.

Venturing outside I spent some time relaxing on the loungers before going in the outdoor infinity pool, just sitting back being massaged by bubbles whilst taking in the beautiful views of the forest, completely

unwinding - it is as if you have entered another world.

I continued through the other spas; Fire & Ice made to stimulate your body and refresh your mind through the interplay of fire and ice. The Sensory Spa - this was amazing an Aqua Sana world-first you’ll never forget, an experience with full-body, multi-sensory stimulation through the various seasons - an absolute delight. Your mind is kept active, regenerating your spirit at a deeply psychological level. If you only ever experience one of the spas it has to be this one!

Next the Mineral & Gemstone Spa - Minerals soothe the skin, detox pores, melt stress away and calm the mind.

Crystals and gemstones emanate strong yet subtle power to your entire body and soul, leaving you feeling revitalised and refreshed. Finally The Salt Spa, this cleanses the body and mind so you feel completely renewed. Salt soothes and invigorates , detoxes your system and softens your skin.

A visit to Aqua Sana is exactly what you need to relax fully and restore your body and mind, readying yourself to get on with life.

Schedules don’t matter when you spend the day here. As well as the relaxing benefits from the Spa Experiences, there is also a whole range of treatments for men and women available. The highly trained therapists, along with products from the best treatment houses, offer a broad choice of therapies to nourish, hydrate and renew your face and body.

or on an overnight spa break.

You do NOT have to be a guest at Center Parcs to visit Aqua Sana for the day

www.aquasana.co.uk/sa naspa/woburn

From the visible results of rejuvenating facials through to deep relaxation massages, the aim is to make you feel radiant.

Everyone has to experience the Aqua Sana at Woburn Forest at least once in their lives; it is a unique journey of discovery in a beautiful setting, allowing you to relax, unwind, rejuvenate and feel renewed.

Prices start from £55 per person for the day

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Midlife

Madness

10 Minute Job's!

I

’m sure everyone reading this will have experienced those irritating times when you set out to do a ten minute job and suddenly it turns into an absolute mission. I’m not sure if it is because I’m getting older or what, but I seem to be noticing a definite increase in those frustrating episodes.

But no sign of the watering can rose. So I announced that we simply had to go to a supermarket to purchase a new watering can (with rose) so I could continue with my weed free patio mission. In my defence, we did also need some milk!

But of course there is this universal truth that when in a supermarket one shops. So £60 later with several bottles of wine, (on a special offer) some new headphones (reduced) other sundry grocery items (mostly on offer) and a new frying pan (which we have really been needing for a while) we leave the shop with a shiny new watering can, complete with ‘rose’ and head back to the house.

The other day was a prime example. The sun was shining, it was a weekend, I didn’t have many plans but did have a late lunch invitation to a friends. So after a lie in and leisurely breakfast, I decided I could usefully spend a little while in the garden. There were a number of little jobs that needed doing, although our garden is TINY. I am not complaining, I can grow all I want and more in our patio pots and thankfully a complete garden sort out only takes a day. But on this particular sunny, Sunday morning I thought it would be a good idea to weed and then ‘pathclear’ one of the patio areas.

Well as you can imagine by this time I was sorely in need of coffee – so I decided as it was a Sunday I would make a nice pot of coffee, and as the sun was shining we could enjoy it in the garden. Unfortunately as I stepped out of the door I caught my flip flop on the step and tray with coffee, cups, milk and some rather special chocolate biscuits (on a two for one offer) all hurtled headlong to the floor and smashed into a million smithereens.

Simple! I moved the table and chairs and the various pots onto the other patio area, which was not nearly so ‘weedy’ and then I removed the big weeds, brushed the patio ready to mix the ‘path clear’ to ensure my weed free patio remained all summer and went in search of the watering can. Well actually I could see easily where that was, what I really needed was the ‘detachable’ nozzle for the spout.

As soon as I see something is detachable I know there will be problems. I spend an inordinate amount of time looking for items essential to my person which are indeed detachable from my person, i.e. car keys, phone, handbag, glasses, umbrella ... you name it, if it can be put down, I will have to spend ages, always at the most inconvenient moments, searching for said items.

But undeterred, following the rather lengthy clean- up operation and the desperately needed cup of instant coffee, I returned to may task of putting path clear onto the cleared patio area. I mixed the sachet into the watering can, checking the instructions for the amount to cover the whole of the cleared area. It was just as I was stirring the mixture that I noticed the pack, or more accurately the sell by date on the pack. Now I am not a stickler for these but even I was fairly surprised to notice it was in fact 10 years out of date. I kid you not. Ten years.

Anyway back to weedy patio story, after spending an hour searching for watering can rose, which involved delving into our carless though packed garage, which of course meant doing some inescapable ‘sorting’ as towers of old toys, unused gym or sports equipment, paint pots, golf clubs or cycle gear threatened to engulf me forever.

I should quite simply have stayed in bed and taken my time reading the Sunday papers! I would have been £60 pounds, a coffee pot, two mugs and a jug richer! Anyway I suspect there is a certain rustic charm to a weedy patio!

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Lets Have a Ball

Save the date in your diary for this year’s

Affinity

‘50 Shades of Pink’ Charity Ball

W

e all had a fabulous fun-filled evening at The Sharnbrook Hotel for our Annual Affinity Charity Ball last November and this year on Saturday 11th October we are going to do it all over again.

Our theme this year is ‘50 Shades of Pink’, and I believe the name speaks for itself when I tell you our charity this year is ‘Breakthrough Breast Cancer’ - a cause that is close to so many people’s hearts. Breakthrough Breast Cancer is more than a name, it’s a force. A force of thousands of people across the UK working together with a single-minded ambition to STOP women and men dying from breast cancer!

We will, as usual, be pulling out all the stops to make sure you have another fantastic evening, whilst raising as much as we can for this worthwhile cause, with magic, casino tables, great music from Vision, a fun photobooth, along with a luxury raffle, an exclusive auction, a table gift for everyone and a few other surprises, our ’50 Shades of Pink’ Ball promises to be another great night to remember.

You will arrive to a PINK sparkling drinks and canapé reception, which will be followed by a delicious three course dinner. The raffle will have some luxury prizes and the exclusive auction will have you on the edge of your seat. After all this excitement you can relax at our casino gaming tables, dress up in our fun photobooth or boogie the night away to the sounds of of Vision.

Tickets for this great night are now on sale at £50 per person with 10% discount for tables of ten; so book your table, decide what shade of pink suits you and look forward to joining us for a great night.

To book tickets for this event or for sponsorship enquiries contact: Jane on 01234 – 215523 / 07507602401 Email: Jane@affinitymag.co.uk

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50 Shades of Pink

Charity Ball

In aid of Breakthrough Breast Cancer

Saturday 11th October 2014 Arrival 7.00pm – 1.00am The Sharnbrook Hotel A6 Park Lane, Sharnbrook, Beds, MK44 1LX A PINK Drinks and Canapé Reception A Sumptious Three Course Meal Exclusive Auction, Raffle, Entertainment and much more

Tickets £50 per person For tickets and sponsorship enquiries contact: Jane Fry – 01234 215523 / 07507 602401 jane@affinitymag.co.uk

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New Horizons I strode confidently out of the reception doors into the future. I had just ceremonially handed in my security pass, my laptop and my phone. I half expected them to rip off my epaulets too! I felt liberated but slightly nervous with anticipation. However, I didn't even look back once as hubbie drove me away. It was time to be me, time to live!

Tuesday was a better day because it was time for my first tennis lesson. The sexy coach, as I mentioned last time, was a bonus but I genuinely did want to improve my backhand. He greeted me and then we got straight down to it. Lots of fun and lovely to be i the open air rather than stuck behind a laptop.

I had made plans for all this for such a long time and after a weekend of relaxing and enjoying the summer sun, my first Monday came round. The funny thing is the alarm set for Martin made me go into zombie work mode and I jumped straight in the shower whilst he made the tea.

Only realising with a guilty pleasure when the first jets of soothing warm water hit me that I didn’t need to get up and hit the road!

Wednesday, I went off cycling for what will become my regular daily circuit of 60 miles round the beautiful Bedford countryside. My mind wondered as I drifted away on the bike to the time three weeks earlier when Martin and I had cycled all over the Normandy coast for the D Day landings and 70th anniversary celebrations.

Very moving and really put life into perspective.

Thursday was diving practice at the pool and boot camp in the early evening

Monday was a day to meet the girls who had been in yummy mummy mode for a few months or more already.

I wanted to experience their lifestyle for a bit. So at 11am I headed off to meet them at the new trendy coffee shop in town. Now the skinny cappuccino and lemon drizzle cake were divine, but the conversation just wasn't for me.

Little Jack had started crawling and Tiny Tim had uttered his first words. Lovely for the mums, but it left me cold. I made my excuses and promised to make this a regular weekly thing, maybe. I think the last straw was when they mentioned holding a chicken pox party and invited me as I had never had the pox!

Friday rounded off the week with a day over at Mums with a glass of Pinot Grigio in hand, on the sun lounger in her garden. We had fun as we started to plan the holiday we would all have later in the year in Italy. First time with all the family since we were teenagers!

Life is good so far, and do you know what I didn't think of emails or office politics once. How will I break it to Martin that I don't think three months will be enough time to take off to achieve everything I want to?!

30

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N

Turn Back Time

o need for Botox in the fight against ageing, there’s a needle-free option to help eliminate those telltale lines.

Quartz Lift Serum) for maximum treatment efficancy, supporting and strengthening the skin, helping collagen synthesis and maximising cell regeneration.

The Elemis Pro-Collagen Quartz Lift Facial is an antiwrinkle facial with proven results.Clinically proven to reduce the number of wrinkles by up to 94%* and improve skin firmness by up to 57%*, after just 1 treatment. Big promises indeed!

The Elemis Pro-Collagen Quartz Lift Facial is an anti-aging face and eye treatment which helps to protect against the signs of ageing, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles on the face and restructuring the eye contour.

As with all Elemis treatments, my facial started with a foot cleansing routine using reflexology points. The skin is then cleansed, toned and warmed with a facial compress before a massage which focuses on using lifting and draining techniques. The treatment includes a lot of massage around the eye area and contouring in that region of the face. Followed by an exfoliation, with a Quartz Lifting Serum that’s specific to this facial adding a setting mask over the top.

Whilst the mask is on my therapist gave me a relaxing scalp massage, before applying a second Pro-Collagen Quartz Lifting Mask, once this was removed specialised lifting massage techniques were then combined with Elemis Pro-Collagen anti-ageing products (including – the Pro-Collagen Marine Cream – and the Pro-Collagen

Did you know? Elemis sells one Pro-Collagen Marine Cream every minute around the world, they must be doing something right. Within hours of my facial I could see a genuine difference in my skin, it appeared plumper and boasted a glowing look!

These Elemis products,have shot straight to the top of my must-haves list. They’re not cheap, but if you’re the kind of person who buys yourself one or two ‘little treats’ per week, then I’d heartily recommend saving up and investing. Just one full week of use later and my skin looks healthier than it has in years, which is something it’s very hard to put a price on… Try the facial once and you’ll be convinced too.

Elemis Pro-Collagen Quartz Lift Facial - 70 mins £85 www.yspa.co.uk

july2014.qxp_Jan 2014 Aff 18/06/2014 18:56 Page 31

Liz Cox Crocodile Skin Embossed Make Up Bag £65 www.lizcox.com

By Caprice ‘Muse’ Bikini £47 ASOS

Kopparberg Cloudberry Elderflower & Lime Cider £2.29 Tesco

Wild Flower Earrings £25 Cutie Pie

Becksondergaard Animal Print Scarves £69 John Lewis

BOMB Cosmetics Candles From £6.99 bombcosmetics.co.uk

Murad Essential-C Sun Balm £19.50 John Lewis

This month’s must have gifts and accessories

Wood Block Vases From £14.99 DesResDesign

AFFINITY HOT PICKS

Footner Daily Repair Cream £8.49 Boots

Seabreeze Tassel Beach Bag £29 Accessorize

Ted Baker Dover Headphones £59.99 John Lewis

Udo’s Choice Beyond Greens £23.99 www.udoschoice.co.uk

Paper Dolls Patent Cork Wedges £40 vestryonline.com

Yellow Skater Dress £55 Lasula

july2014.qxp_Jan 2014 Aff 18/06/2014 18:56 Page 32

Cover Up

Ben De Lisi Kaftan Debenhams

Sainsburys Lace Cover Up £29 Accessorize

Leopard Print Kaftan £17.99 Missguided Kaftan £14 Tesco

Kaftan £79 Wallis

Floral Print Kaftan £25 Lipsy

Zig Zag Kimono £12 Matalan

Palm Print Kaftan £25 Marisota

Multi Kaftan £16 Tesco

Tie Dye Long Kaftan £45 Accessorize

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Short & Sweet Flower Pattern Shorts Topshop

La Redoute

aScallopLace Shorts £35 Accessorize

Floral Shorts £22 Accessorize

Red Herring Shorts £28 Debenhams

Shorts £49 Mint Velvet

Tie Dye Shorts £25 Accessorize

Pop Art Shorts £17.99 Missguided

Floral Shorts £35 Miss Selfridge Shorts £25 Miss Selfridge

La Redoute

Liza Shorts £49 Mint Velvet

july2014.qxp_Jan 2014 Aff 18/06/2014 18:57 Page 35

Hats off fashionworld

Black Fedora Hat £9.50 Dorothy Perkins

Colour Block Floppy Hat £12 Dorothy Perkins

Dorothy Perkins

Floozie by Frost French £18 Debenhams

Dorothy Perkins

Floral Fedora Hat £12 Dorothy Perkins

Janet Reger £19.50 Debenhams

Floppy Hat £15 Accessorize

Marseilles Floppy Hat £22 Accessorize_

july2014.qxp_Jan 2014 Aff 18/06/2014 18:57 Page 36

Looking after your

Mental Health S

ome people call mental health ‘emotional health’ or ‘wellbeing’ and it is just as important as good physical health. We all have times when we feel down or stressed or frightened. Most of the time those feelings pass, but occasionally they develop into a more serious problem – Everyone id different.

So it is important to take care of yourself and get the most from life, these simple steps can help you look after your mental health:

Eat Well There are strong links between what we eat and how we feel – for example, caffeine and sugar can have an immediate effect, but food can also have a long-lasting effect on

your mental health. Your brain needs a mix of nutrients to stay healthy and function well, just like the other organs in your body. A diet that’s good for your physical health is also good for your mental health.

38

Talk about your Feelings Talking about your feelings can help you stay in good mental health and deal with times when you feel troubled. Talking about your feelings isn’t a sign of weakness. it’s part of taking charge of your wellbeing and doing what you can to stay healthy.

Talking can be a way to cope with a problem you’ve been carrying around in your head for a while. Just being listened to can help you feel supported and less alone.

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Keep in Touch Friends and family can make you feel included and cared for. They can offer different views from whatever’s going on inside your own head. They can help keep you active, keep you grounded and help you solve practical problems.

There’s nothing better than catching up with someone face-to-face. But that’s not always possible. Give them a call, drop them a note or chat to them online instead.

Keep the lines of communication open.It’s good for you.

feel good. Regular exercise can boost your self-esteem and help you concentrate, sleep, look and feel better.

Exercise also keeps the brain and your other vital organs healthy.Exercising doesn’t just mean doing sport or going to the gym. Walks in the park, gardening or housework can also keep you active.

Experts say most people should do about 30 minutes exercise at least five days a week. Try to make physical activity that you enjoy a part of your day.

Take a Break Life-changing events, such as bereavement, remarriage, redundancy and retirement, can all take their toll on your mental wellbeing. Sometimes, you may feel as if everything is getting on top of you and that it’s all becoming too much. Stopping to relax, in any way that works for you – such as practicing meditation or a mindfulness technique – can help you to manage your emotions and reduce your stress levels.

A change of scene or a change of pace is good for your mental health. It could be a five-minute pause from cleaning your kitchen, a half-hour lunch break at work or a weekend exploring somewhere new. A few minutes can be enough to de-stress you.

Give yourself some ‘me time’.Taking a break may mean being very active. It may mean not doing very much at all.

Take a deep breath… and relax. Try yoga or meditation, or just putting your feet up.Listen to your body. If you’re really tired, give yourself time to sleep.

Without good sleep, our mental health suffers and our concentration goes downhill. Sometimes the world can wait.

Drink Sensibly We often drink alcohol to change our mood. Some people drink to deal with fear or loneliness, but the effect is only temporary.

When the drink wears off, you feel worse because of the way alcohol withdrawal symptoms affect your brain and the rest of your body. Drinking is not a good way to manage difficult feelings.

Ask for Help None of us are superhuman. We all sometimes get tired or overwhelmed by how we feel or when things go wrong.

If things are getting too much for you and you feel you can’t cope, ask for help.

Do Something you're Good At What do you love doing? What activities can you lose yourself in? What did you love doing in the past? Enjoying yourself helps beat stress. Doing an activity you enjoy probably means you’re good at it and achieving something boosts your self-esteem.

Concentrating on a hobby like gardening or a crossword can help you forget your worries for a while and change your mood.It can be good to have an interest where you’re not seen as someone’s mum or dad, partner or employee. You’re just you.

Accept Who You Are Some of us make people laugh, some are good at maths, others cook fantastic meals. Some of us share our lifestyle with the people who live close to us, others live very differently.

We’re all different. It’s much healthier to accept that you’re unique than to wish you were more like someone else.

Feeling good about yourself boosts your confidence to learn new skills, visit new places and make new friends. Good selfesteem helps you cope when life takes a difficult turn.

Care for Others Caring for others is often an important part of keeping up relationships with people close to you. It can even bring you closer together. Why not share your skills more widely by volunteering for a local charity? Helping out can make us feel needed and valued and that boosts our self-esteem. It also helps us see the world from another angle. That can help to put our own problems in perspective.

Keep Active Experts believe exercise releases chemicals in your brain that make you

www.mentalhealth.org.uk 39

july2014.qxp_Jan 2014 Aff 18/06/2014 18:57 Page 38

Royal Rich Foods

Delivering quality and great savings direct to your door

E

njoy the very best British farmed meat delivered directly to your door. Royal Rich Foods was the brain child of two friends from our area; one who has been in the meat trade all his life and the other an entrepreneur keen to improve the ways we purchase products. Their dream was to supply top quality meats at unbeatable prices, direct to their customers and as such Royal Rich Foods was born in December 2014. They delivered over 80 hampers in the week before Christmas alone and now supply a number of restaurants in the local area. Starting small the company delivers meats direct to customers’ homes, by the end of this year they plan to expand through the web and send meat parcels that are carefully packed and chilled via courier post to all parts of the country.

The meats are all sourced from suppliers who understand the high standards when it comes to quality. Any chef will tell you that “Great food

starts with good ingredients”. You can now enjoy the same quality that is normally reserved only for top restaurants and dining venues, so you can rest assured that you will be serving up only the very best meat available.

Guaranteed savings Because they keep their costs down by supplying you direct you are able to save money on the cost of the equivalent quality from your butcher or supermarket. All products come to you freshly refrigerated giving you the option to choose to freeze and use at your convenience.

Royal Rich Foods only sell the very best British Meat ensuring you of the same quality every time.

Products can be purchased individually or as part of a carefully selected hamper that offers you even more value through bulk ordering.

WIN! WIN! WIN! “Royal Rich Foods are offering one lucky Affinity reader the chance to win a BBQ meat hamper packed with a variety of produce from their range” • 4 Chicken Kebabs on sticks, 4 Minted lamb Kebabs, 24 Pork Sausages, 2 Fillet Steaks (8oz )2 Sirloin Steaks (8oz), 5 Lamb leg steaks in Mint glaze, 4 Chicken Thighs in Cajun glaze, 5 Chicken Legs in BBQ glaze, 4 Gourmet Burger(8oz) To be in with a chance of winning this bumper hamper simply email sales@royalrichfoods

quoting "Affinity"with your name and daytime telephone number by 18th July 2014 You don’t have to wait to see if you are a winner of the competition you can still take advantage of these great products by visiting the website www.royalrichfoods.co.uk or call us on: 01234 825754 – take a look at the customer reviews on our website and facebook page !!!

Happy BBQs

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A Taste of

Bellinis 42

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F

ive minutes from the centre of Bedford town centre is Bellini’s Italian Restaurant, with its relaxed and friendly atmosphere, it is the ideal setting for any occasion, whether it is a romantic meal for two, a dinner with friends, a business lunch or a celebration.

We popped along on a midweek evening and although not crowded, it was certainly busy.

The menu is varied and includes traditional Italian dishes ranging from pizza and pasta to fillet of beef cooked in a roast pepper, mushroom, cream and brandy sauce topped with dolcelatte cheese. We both opted for authentic Italian dishes for our starters, Funghi Ripieni (roasted garlic mushrooms topped with mozzarella & tomato sauce) and Melanzane alla Parmigiana (baked egg battered aubergines in tomato sauce & parmesan); both dishes were full of flavour, portions were good without being over bearing, whetting our appetites for our main course.

Our mains were just as appetizing with my choice Spigola al Forno (baked fillets of sea bass in a sun dried tomato, olive and white wine sauce); the fish was fresh and succulent and the sun dried tomatoes just added that extra bit of flavour. My husband’s choice of Scaloppine ai Funghi di Bosco (escalops of veal pan fried with wild mushrooms in a brandy and cream sauce) another treat to the taste buds.

Desserts were obligatory, Vanilla Cheesecake served with raspberry coulis was delightful with the raspberry coulis delivering just the right sharpness to the sweetness of the cheesecake. Mousse Torroncino – iced caramelised almond mousse and chantilly cream was delightful, delivering a sweet-lovers dream.

We finished our dining experience with tea and coffee. The relaxed atmosphere, lovely food, unrushed yet efficient service, makes Bellinis the kind of place you’ll want to return to time and time again.

Bellinis 44 High Street Bedford, MK41 6EG 01234 219888 www.bellinis-restaurant.com

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Dim-sum

Delight I

f it’s good enough for Gordon Ramsay and Heston Blumenthal (they favour the Baker Street Branch!) then it’s good enough for us – What am I talking about I hear you ask - The Royal China Group!

It consists of six of London’s most authentic and prestigious Chinese restaurants. The group is renowned for its excellent-value Dim Sum, which is served daily from Noon until 5pm. Each restaurant has a different menu and dedicated Dim Sum Chef, as well as a Head Chef.

We paid a visit to The Royal China, Queensway in London which has recently undergone a complete refurbishment. The new-look 130-seat restaurant features a stunning gold leaf ceiling, and a new ornate hand-painted Chinese mural with a modern twist on the classic Royal China wave motif.

On offer are traditional Hong Kong Chinese dishes and the most delicious Dim-sum I have ever tasted! All Dim-sums are freshly steamed or fried only after the customer has placed their order.

The menu is varied and you are left wondering what to choose, so we left it to the manager to choose for us, and what an excellent choice he made – 5 Dim-sum dishes including seafood, duck and pork – the verdict, a perfect assortment of tastes and just delicious. This was followed by crispy duck which was cooked to perfection, chilli crispy shredded beef and special rice came next – the beef was so flavoursome, with the chilli giving a slight kick that complimented it perfectly, the rice was again perfection with pork, prawns and vegetables, it was one of the best rice dishes I have ever tasted Considering it was a midweek lunchtime the restaurant was very busy, with the majority of customers being Chinese (always a good sign of a restaurants authenticity) despite being busy, service was impeccable and nothing was too much trouble.

A real hit with us, I strongly advise anyone visiting London to pay The Royal China a visit, they don’t just serve food at lunchtime they also have an evening a la carte menu which I will definitely be returning to taste! www.royalchinagroup.co.uk

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Coconut Salmon with Passion Island Salsa 46

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“

“

A light meal packed with tons of flavour, ideal for Alfresco dining. With a margarita or mojito on the side!

Ingredients 4 x 150g salmon fillets with skin 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped 5cm fresh ginger, finely chopped 5 fresh kaffir lime leaves, finely chopped or the finely grated zest of 1 lime 1 mild red chilli, deseeded and finely chopped 1 tbsp caster sugar 1 tbsp Thai fish sauce (nam pla) 200ml carton coconut cream 2 limes, halved

For the Salsa 1 mango, halved, stoned, peeled and diced 1/2 cucumber, diced 1 small papaya, peeled, halved, deseeded and diced 2 ripe avocados, halved, stoned, peeled and diced 1 mild red chilli, deseeded and finely chopped 1 small garlic clove, crushed 2 tbsp honey 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil juice of 2 limes juice of 1/2 orange 4 tbsp chopped fresh coriander

Method Combine the garlic, ginger, lime leaves or lime zest, chilli, sugar, fish sauce and coconut cream in a large non-metallic bowl. Add the salmon and turn to coat in the marinade.

Chill for up to 1 hour.

Meanwhile, mix all of the salsa ingredients in a medium bowl. Season to taste and set aside.

Pre-heat a griddle pan until hot or light a barbecue to cook the salmon. Remove the salmon from the marinade and cook for 3-4 minutes each side, until cooked. Discard the remaining marinade.

Serve the salmon with the salsa and the lime halves. www.deliciousmagazine.co.uk

A Trio of Al Fresco Treats

Taittinger Brut Reserve NV The Brut reserve is renowned for its’ golden yellow colour with a consistent fine lingering mousse. The nose is light and delicate with hints of fruits and brioche. The palate is lean, but has considerable depth and elegance with a long fresh finish. Its’ elegance and lightness makes it an excellent choice for picnics or outside summer dining. £38.99 Sainsbury’s, Waitrose, Tesco

Taittinger Prestige Rose NV Delicate salmon pink in colour, this rose fizz has aromas of wild strawberries and a hint of spice. On the palate it is fresh and elegant with flavours of crushed wild raspberry, cherry and blackcurrant. The fresh fruit flavours make this champagne the perfect picnic drink enjoyed with strawberries in the sun. £47 Waitrose, Harrods, Majestic

Luxury Merangz Bites These beautifully presented bite size meringues are slow baked to a traditional Swiss recipe. Perfectly crisp on the outside and deliciously mallow on the inside, this collection of chocolate and nut bites are ideal for creating scrumptious desserts with minimal effort. £4.50 www.thelittlecakecompany.co.uk

july2014.qxp_Jan 2014 Aff 18/06/2014 18:57 Page 46

Rich Dark Chocolate Tart with Homemade Cappuccino Ice Cream Ingredients

For the Base: 200g Flour 135g Unsalted Butter 70g Caster Sugar 1 Egg For The Filling 400g Dark Chocolate (65%) 200g White Chocolate 200ml Semi-skimmed Milk 400ml Double Cream 6 Eggs 100g Caster Sugar For The Ice Cream 550ml Double Cream 7 Egg Yolks 200g Sugar 100ml Strong Coffee

Method

First, start by making your ice cream. For this, you need to lightly whip the cream with the sugar to soft peaks Carefully fold in the egg yolks and coffee, trying to hold as much air in the mix as possible. The airier the mix is, the better the ice cream will be.

Pour this into a container and leave to freeze for at least 8 hours, or overnight.

You may want to experiment with the amount of coffee and sugar you use depending on personal preference.

For the base, combine all the ingredients in a bowl, rubbing the mixture through your fingers until you have a mix of breadcrumb consistency.

Now start to bring this together until you have a firm dough.

Roll out your pastry and fit into your pastry case, then 'blind bake' at 180 Ëšc until you have a golden brown pastry, about 20 minutes.

Whilst your base is cooking, start your filling. In a deep pan, bring your milk and cream to a simmer.

Whisk in your sugar and take off the heat.

Immediately add in both types of chocolate. There should be enough heat in the mix to melt the chocolate entirely, but it may need a minute or two on the heat again to help it.

Leave to cool for 5 minutes then whisk in your eggs.

Finally, when both your pastry and filling is ready, lower the oven temperature to 130Ëšc, pour you filling into the pastry case and bake until only a slight wobble remains in the centre, about 25 minutes Once cooked, leave too cool to room temperature before portioning.

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

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Steak night Wednesdays Selection of prime cut steaks available from £18.95. Price to include a free dessert from our a la carte menu and a glass of house wine We are still doing “Buy 1 get 1 free” on main courses every Tuesday all day, 12pm- 9pm!

Join us for our monthly pudding nights! £15.00 for a main course and as many delicious desserts as you can squeeze in!

4th July and 8th August

Afternoon Teas We are now doing traditional afternoon teas by the river! Served 2.00pm til 5.00pm daily.

Full afternoon tea, including pot of tea/coffee, a selection of finger sandwiches, homemade scones with cream and jam, selection of cakes and macaroons, £9.95 Sweet afternoon tea, including pot of tea/coffee, homemade scones with cream and jam, selection of cakes and macaroons, £7.00 Champagne afternoon tea, including glass of champagne, a selection of finger sandwiches, homemade scones with cream and jam, selection of cakes and macaroons, £16.95

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

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Life’s a Beach

Cool Country Cool Country

july2014.qxp_Jan 2014 Aff 18/06/2014 18:57 Page 50

ByeBrytshi Mottley Union Jack Deckchair £95 etsy

1950s Fashion Deck Chair Sling £15 and Frame £40 John Lewis

Ultraviolet Jelly Fish Deckchair £55 In-Spaces

Coastal Patchwork Deck Chair £15 John Lewis

Ink Tropical Deckchair £220 In- Spaces

Kissing Rabbits Deck Chair Anorak

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Blue Stripe Wooden Deck Chair £30 Tesco

Ink Radius Deckchair £220 In-Spaces

727 Sailbags Deck Chair £191.00 Amara

Loewy Bird Deck Chair Sling £15 and Frame £40 John Lewis Folding Rocking Chair £245 Wawa

july2014.qxp_Jan 2014 Aff 18/06/2014 18:57 Page 52

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G. Butler

Loft and Garage Conversion Specialist We will provide a service from planning to completion █ █ █ █ █ █

Over 23 years experience Free quotes Professional advice Design, planning & construction available All work fully insured Local business

01234 327205 07801 880557 www.loftconversionsbedfordshire.co.uk

The space above your head is the room you have always dreamed of

july2014.qxp_Jan 2014 Aff 18/06/2014 18:57 Page 54

Trusted Traveller

Doodle Dog Case £149 Radley

Alexus Suitcase £260 Antler

Love Travel Bag £39 Accessorize

Globe-Trotter 2 £995.00 The Merchant Fox

Yellow Case £69 Tripp

Autumn Flower Raspberry Case £65, Cabin £49 Tripp

Jasper Conran at Tripp £99.99 Debenhams

Jasper Conran at Tripp £99.99 Debenhams

Tranvers Case in Safari £95 eastpak.com

Express Oriental Flower Cabin Case £49 Holdall £20 Debenhams

Aubrey Rose Cabin Case £135 Cath Kidston

july2014.qxp_Jan 2014 Aff 18/06/2014 18:57 Page 55

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Short Story

Chino Shorts £26 Next

Denim Shorts £32 Topman Fish Stitch Short £12 Primark

Orange Chino Short £10 Primark J by Jasper Conran £35 Debenhams

Oxford Shorts £30 Jacamo

Bird Print Shorts £22 Next Lightwash Shorts Burton Menswear

sainsburys

july2014.qxp_Jan 2014 Aff 18/06/2014 18:58 Page 57

Fry’s Footie Corner

I

World Cup Surprises!

t has been a wonderful start to the 2014 World Cup in Brazil with a surprisingly large number of goals scored in the early games. In previous World Cups, the opening games have been very cagy and tight with not many goals, but it is refreshing to see so many goals scored in the opening week of the competition.

The biggest and impressive win so far was Holland’s 5-1 demolition of Spain. I don’t think anyone expected the holders to be beaten in that way and it does put pressure on them for the rest of the group stage of the competition.

The most viewed game in this country was obviously England against Italy game in Manaus. I felt England were unfortunate to lose, it was arguably the best they have played for a long time and looked very dangerous going forward throughout the 90 minutes.

The Italians had the class in midfield and Andrea Pirlo was extremely impressive as was Mario Ballotelli who always seems to score against us. I think England will respond in the next two games and I still think we will qualify for the last 16.

I think the biggest disappointment so far has been the Portuguese, who were hammered by a very good German side. The Germans have now played 100 games in the competition, more than anyone else. I think Germany will be there or thereabouts at the end, however, on what I have seen, I am sticking to my original choice of a Brazil v Argentina final with the host nation lifting the trophy.

Enjoy the rest of the competition.

Barry Fry 59

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Be part of Affinity the PREMIUM FREE Luxury Lifestyle Magazine Affinity has become the regions most loved and widely read magazine

Our distribution and readership is extensive Advertise with us in print and online and gain new customers by putting your business in front of our readers

Affinity Magazine AffinityMag @affinitymagz

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ANYONE FOR BENTLEY? Bentley Marks 95th Anniversary With Launch of UK-Only Limited Edition Mulsanne

B

entley Motors is the most sought after luxury car brand in the world. In 2013 one in every four luxury cars delivered to customers worldwide was a Bentley.

Red and Oxford White – created especially for this limited run of cars and then hand-finished at Bentley’s own paintshop – have been conceived for the Mulsanne 95 with each option reflecting Bentley’s proud British roots.

Bentley is marking its 95th anniversary in the UK by unveiling the ‘Mulsanne 95’, a striking special edition of the company’s luxurious flagship model. Only 15 examples will be hand crafted by Bentley’s Mulliner division in Crewe and all are reserved for customers in the United Kingdom. Their British-inspired colours, as well as a unique wood veneer and range of design cues, all emphasise the exclusive nature of the Mulsanne.

The classic red, white and blue colour palette is complemented by some eye-catching exterior design touches unique to Mulsanne 95, with a dark tint finish given to the iconic Flying B bonnet mascot and the striking 21-inch five-spoke wheels.

The cabin of the Mulsanne 95 showcases Bentley’s ability to skilfully blend contemporary features with the luxurious wood veneers and leather hides for which the company is renowned.

Three bespoke exterior colours; Britannia Blue, Empire 62

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Illuminated treadplates featuring a bespoke ‘NINETY FIVE’ script and union flag detail turn the simple act of opening the door into an occasion. A distinctive ‘95’ emblem has been embroidered onto the front and rear seats as well as featuring on the passenger fascia panel.

noteworthy wood veneer selected by Bentley from a huge walnut tree – estimated to be between 300 and 400 years old – which came down at Fulbeck Hall in Lincolnshire during a heavy storm in 2007. The Fulbeck Walnut veneer features in the signature ‘ring of wood’ that encompasses the entire interior, and its complex pattern displays a rare rippled effect which sweeps through the cabin. This unique veneer is complemented by a blue and white twotone leather split with red contrast stitching to elegantly continue the British theme.

Bentley’s passion for uncovering beautiful and sustainable wood veneers that bring character and great decorative taste throughout a cabin means the company has a team of experts searching around the globe for new designs. For this distinctly British model, however, the team found inspiration closer to home.

The 15 Mulsanne 95 models are available for customers to order now through Bentley’s network of 22 UK sales locations.

The Mulsanne 95 features a particularly rare and 63

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Learning to Love the Laws of Attraction

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n 2006 a book was published called The Secret,

by Rhonda Byrne, and it is fair to say that in certain circles it caused a bit of a stir. Both the book and the film of the same name document the modern approach to the theory of the Laws of Attraction but many of the core concepts have been studied by spiritual thinkers and leaders for centuries.

we want. It all begins with our thoughts, we attract what we think about, good or bad. But I guess we have all thought of winning the lottery and may have been disappointed, so it is easy to be a bit cynical.

As within, so without

The law of attraction however does not suggest we are able to think a single thought and bring something into being. It is saying that our thoughts are powerful. If we are afraid of something and think about it constantly, the feelings of fear would often become worse. People who worry constantly about being ill often appear to experience more illness.

What is the Law of Attraction?

The idea is quite simply that as humans we can have whatever we want – essentially we can ‘attract’ whatever

We are not talking about single thoughts, but thought patterns and processes. Increasingly in the spheres of business, health, sport and education the power of positivity is being recognised. In preparation for a big event few sportsmen and women would focus on losing.

They focus on winning and have very specific strategies

As above, so below,

The Emerald Tablet circa 3000BC (quoted on fly leaf of The Secret)

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"Every thought has a frequency. Thoughts send out a magnetic Energy"

for how to do that – visualising winning, imagining how it would look and how it would feel.

The Secret – Rhonda Byrne

In coaching, a lot of attention is paid to how we THINK simply because this has an impact on how we ARE and this in turn has an impact on our success.

It is far easier to think about goals and take real steps to achieving them when you are feeling positive about yourself and your life. Imagine someone who is unhappy in their job – if they think they are useless and really lack confidence, they are unlikely to seek out another position and will just have the mental view that maybe this awful job is all they can expect, or all they deserve. A more positive person would have the confidence to seek out alternatives.

"The law of attraction is that our thinking creates and brings to us whatever we think about. It's as though every time we think a thought, every time we speak a word, the universe is listening and responding to us."

Author Louise Hay quoted on: http://www.oprah.com/spirit/The-Law-ofAttraction-Real-Life-Stories_1

So, you can see the way we think really does have an impact on what happens to us.

Top Tips

The first step is being positive about yourself and about your life. That doesn’t mean you have to be unrealistic but almost everyone has some good things in life and some things they can be grateful for.

If you want to think more positively and begin to try attracting what you want in life, then try these tips

According to the laws of attraction you are more likely to attract something when you think about it repeatedly and really focus on the thought. It means you are open to the possibility and inviting it in. So if you want to find the love of your life but concentrate all the time on how you are alone and hate it, you are much more likely to become isolated and lonely and will rarely be in the right physical place or right emotional space to meet people. And if you do the ‘vibe’ you give off may be anything but positive. So one of the keys in the laws of attraction is to think positively.

• You are in charge - Who controls your thoughts and your actions? Well that would be you. You may not be able to control what happens but you can control how you react. If someone upsets you for example, you can choose how you react to that. Make sure that the way you react is positive for you – getting angry for example, often just wastes energy.

• Start the day right - Before you get going on the day think a bit about what you want to achieve, and how you might react in a positive way to things you anticipate.

Getting Started on Positive Thinking

• Have a Happy Mind-set - If it is a day that looks like it might be tough, draw on some happy moments or thoughts to give you a positive attitude.

"Whatever is going on in your mind is what you are attracting"

• Make Things Happen - Rather than being a person who spends all their time reacting to things, try to be the one who makes things happens. If there is something you are not happy about have a goal to change it and every day take a small step towards this.

The Secret – Rhonda Byrne

At a very basic level you have to shift your mind set about yourself first – if your bottom line thought is that you are no good, then this is what you will transmit – not only to the universe but to everyone you meet. If anyone really struggles to move forward with this then it is definitely worth booking a coaching or tapping session to shift that negative base.

• Don’t get stuck in yesterday - Each day is new and we can make of it what we want. You may have made mistakes in the past but don’t dwell on these, instead work out how you can move forward.

One of the really great things about thinking positively is that it soon grows and that in turn changes your attitude to other aspects of your life. When you are in a more positive mind set it is easier to start visualising, not your present position but where you want to be – it’s not just sportsmen and women that do it, visualisation as a technique is used in business and many other fields.

For further information or to book a coaching or tapping session contact attuned education 01234 349067 07921193479 info@attunededucation.co.uk www.attunededucation.com 65

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Welcome to the musings of Yummy Mummy. Living in Bedford she is married to ‘The Husband’ and together they have 4 children - Rafferty, 9, Violet, 7, Roman, 6 and Clementine, 2.

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

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Motherhood and a Career

am opened minded and firmly believe that everyone is entitled to make their life and work choices free from judgment (unless they are illegal of course!) and appreciate that what I may choose may not be another person’s choice and vice versa and I fully support this right.

and earned good money, so I was hoping for something similar to this, of course I didn’t assume at the same level - although why shouldn’t I?! Don’t get me wrong, I am happy to turn my hand to anything but why shouldn’t we expect the ‘pre-mum’ jobs to be out there but on a part time basis? I imagine that some non-parent employees think that the parents are out of the door on the dot whilst they are left to pick up the slack, however in my case, as I am sure it is for many parents, I probably get more done in my working hours – working smarter - than some full timers! I know this is an ongoing issue and I just hope that one day more employers realise this and make the opportunities available.

I have done the ‘career mum’, the ‘stay at home’ mum and also the ‘working part time mum’ so I can truly say I have seen it from all sides. After the birth of my first child I returned to work when he was five months old as these were the days of six months maternity leave, maximum.

I was in the fortunate position that ‘The Husband’ worked locally and was flexible as were my employers, therefore whoever did the nursery drop-off went into work later, then the other went in early and also left early to do the pick-up. I was even promoted on my return from maternity leave, so returned to more responsibility and more money, which was fantastic and probably very rare!

However, when baby number two was on its way, ‘The Husband’ had relocated to London involving a long day, so I decided with two little ones that I would take a ‘career break’. I know I was lucky that I was in a financial position to do this, however, looking into it I also realised that some mums or dads have no choice but to give up work due to the horrendous cost of childcare – in some cases the cost of it is greater than their wages ... ridiculous. I thoroughly enjoyed the time off with the children but of course that came with its own challenges, sometimes craving adult conversation, especially that which didn’t involve talk of babies! But I am still grateful I got the opportunity.

Also another bitter pill to swallow is that the ‘pay gap’ still exists some 42 years after the Equal Pay Act was created, after the machinists in Dagenham walked out in protest.

Although the gap was narrowed after this, it is heartbreaking to see that since 2010 it has widened from 2.6 per cent to 5.3 per cent - these figures are for men and women in their twenties. I can only guess that this figure is even higher for part time parents as I know that what has been offered to me now is less than half my previous hourly rate.

There is currently a petition online to get the Government to address this inequality by getting large employers to publish pay rates - go online to epeitions.direct.gov.uk and search for Section 78 and sign and share! I urge you to sign it whether you are female or male as it’s for you, your daughters, wives, sisters etc!

Now I work freelance on a self employed basis, of course the money isn’t what it was, so until the Government and employers see the light, I will take comfort in getting the best balance I can under the circumstances.

After a while however, as well as missing working, I needed to return for financial reasons especially with the cost of living constantly increasing. After a thorough search for family friendly jobs it became all too apparent that they just aren’t out there! Also with ‘The Husband’ not home until 7.00pm at the earliest then anything in the evening couldn’t happen. Previously I worked in a professional environment heading up a large sales team

Get signing!

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D

Duvet Den Fun

id you know a recent survey reveals that the cost of keeping 2.4 children entertained over the six-week school summer holiday is estimated to be £2,500!!!!!

And in a survey by The Fine Bedding Company: Three quarters of parents said they struggle financially during the school holidays, 80% said they struggle with ideas for how to keep their children busy.

The Fine Bedding Company has teamed up with life coach for children Naomi Richards, author of "The Parent's Toolkit", to inspire and encourage parents and children to get creative at home, and have fun without spending money by creating 'the ultimate duvet den'.

Here's their step-by-step guide: A large, light synthetic duvet Blankets or sheets for the floor Pillows/ sofa cushions/ sleeping bags Clothes pegs to secure the duvet in place Bunting Fairy lights “Keep out” sign or similar Torch String Books Games Snacks Extension cable Stage One Lay a blanket or sheet on the floor and position four chairs opposite each other; they should be close enough

together for the duvet to drape over the chairs and over the seat cushions ideally.

Gather pillows and cushions to fill the den and provide comfy cushioning – ideally around the corners and along the back wall.

Weave string in-between the top of the chairs to form a support for the roof and attach fairy lights on to it with pegs. Use an extension cable for the lights if needed.

Stage Two Lift the duvet over the top of the chairs ensuring it covers the lights and provides a cover at the back. Ideally position the den against a wall or sofa for additional support.

The duvet should hang over the two front chairs by a couple of inches. You can fill in the spaces with white sheets to ensure the roof and sides reach the floor.

Stage Three Decorate the den with items like bunting, tea sets, cuddly toys, and books.

The children will then 'make this their own space' and come up with their own ideas of what to have in the den.

Why not get them to design 'keep out!' signs or draw their name?

Have Fun!

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The True Spirit of the West The Lodge & Spa at Brush Creek Ranch - a Luxury Dude Ranch in Saratoga, Wyoming

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ajestic scenery, limitless luxury and endless adventure exemplify the Western experience at The Lodge & Spa at Brush Creek Ranch, a luxury dude ranch situated on 15,000 acres of Rocky Mountain wilderness in Saratoga, Wyoming.

Where rusticity meets luxury; a unique setting where one can reconnect with nature, revitalize the senses and indulge in unlimited adventure.

Situated in the heart of Wyoming’s famed Platte River Valley, between the Sierra Madre Mountain range and stunning Medicine Bow National Forest, The Lodge & Spa at Brush Creek Ranch is an all-inclusive luxury ranch resort like no other, exclusively designed for discerning travelers, ambitious adventurers, corporate group retreats, family luxury dude ranch vacations and glorious ranch destination weddings. The luxury dude ranch features a stately 38,000-square foot lodge, a luxury spa, a finely appointed collection of cabin suites & residences & lodge rooms. With authentic outdoor adventures for every season, including unparalleled Fly Fishing and Wing Shooting.

The signature Inclusive Luxury experience ensures a convenient and streamlined stay, with all lodging, food, premium beverages, wine cellar and a wide assortment of activities included in the rates.

Ranch Activities with Gear, Guides & Instruction • Horseback Riding: Trail rides, arena activities, riding instruction and roping lessons •Fly-Fishing: Orvis-endorsed private water fishing

• Shooting Sports: Brush Creek Ranch Gun Club with sporting clays, skeet, rifle/pistol range and alpine archery course • Trail Adventures: Mountain biking, hiking, trail running, guided ranger tours • Challenge Pursuits: Paintball, zipline, high/low ropes course, rock climbing walls, orienteering • Recreation Programs: Full indoor sports court, arcade, karaoke in the saloon, classic lawn games • Lil’ Wranglers program: for ages 4-8, plus special youth dining and twilight events • Fitness & Wellness: Yoga and full fitness center •*Spa experiences and off-ranch premium adventure available for an additional fee

Inspired Dining Experiences From dawn until dusk enjoy hearty feasts, outdoor picnics, convivial happy hours, campfire 'smores’ and elegant dinners presented in a variety of venues. Including outdoor Chuckwagon & Saloon, Creekside Dinner Camp on the banks of Brush Creek, Falcon Peak Overlook and the Trailhead Lodge.

All beverages, including premium spirits, beers and open wine cellar access are included throughout your stay.

For an unforgettable luxury ranch vacation during the 2014 season from June 4th to October 18th call Sue Alexander at Eagle Travel on 01234 348882 and reserve your Brush Creek Ranch adventure vacation of a lifetime..

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Luton Hoo Hotel, Golf and Spa

Luxury Revisited at

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f you love ‘Downton Abbey’ and all things period drama related you will simply adore Luton Hoo Hotel Golf & Spa!

Approaching Luton Hoo Hotel for the first time is just a little bit special. The sheer magnificence of the main mansion house and opulence takes your breath away. A driveway paved with woodland on either side winding up to the estate is like a scene from a film…actually it is a scene out of a few films including Four Weddings and a Funeral, Eyes Wide Shut, Vanity Fair and Bleak House to name but a few.

by one of the Hotel’s very own customised Black Taxi Cabs (the only difference between the ones in London is the Luton Hoo ones are complimentary!) Adam’s Brasserie serves to create a more relaxed and informal atmosphere, but that doesn’t stop them from serving fine cuisine and more familiar fare in a distinctly laid back setting. The menu features a range of imaginative dishes, as well as more traditional favourites, the food was delightful and service was impeccable.

This grade II Mansion House is enchanting. After walking through the pillard halls, and period rooms we settled in the elegant lounge where we enjoyed the delights of a Great British tradition - Afternoon Tea!

After dinner we explored this elegant hotel a little more before retiring for the evening.

Next day we had a leisurely breakfast before heading over to the Golf Club where we were going to put our golf skills to the test on the 18 hole golf course. It is one of the longest golf courses in the UK, a 7,107-yard par-73 masterpiece.

The 35 bedrooms and suites in the main house are truly fit for a King – or a Queen, Her Majesty having been one of a long list of honoured guests who have stayed here!

Each room and suite has been through an extensive restoration to restore it to its full former glory and it is impossible not to notice the immense detailing throughout the whole building. Rooms and suites are of some size and every effort has been made to preserve and restore the original ambience which is reflected in the attention to detail with which each room is decorated and furnished.

It’s not every day you get to tee off and play 18 holes that wind their way through gardens designed by Capability Brown. Landscaped sympathetically into the grounds, the course stretches over 250 acres, and has also benefitted from an extensive tree planting programme, making the course as easy on the eye as it is exciting to play.

We played some great holes on this championship golf course which has water coming into play on six of the holes. All the tees and greens qualify to USGA standards.

Luton Hoo is a long course which will get tougher as it ages, the fairways and greens are immaculate while the open half of the course will get tighter as the saplings mature.

We were lucky enough to have a Principal Suite, these suites are exquisitely decorated, with ornate ceilings and the views of the gardens and parkland were breathtaking, pure luxury and fit for a King!

The Wernher Restaurant was closed on the evening we stayed, so we ate in Adam’s Brasserie. We were taken here

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The course condition is absolutely outstanding and extremely well looked after!

and hard court tennis, mapped bird and wildlife walks, you won’t ever be stuck for something to do!

Leisure wise not only is there this outstanding golf course there is also the spa which showcases an impressive 18metre indoor pool, complete with whirlpool, as well as a Technogym-kitted fitness studio and a snooker room. The Country Club spa provides a full range of treatments.

If you want to feel like Royalty then Luton Hoo is definitely the place to be.

With boating and waterskiing available on the 50 acre lake, a clay pigeon shooting school, falconry, archery, grass

Prices from ÂŁ199 per room per night Luton Hoo Hotel Golf & Spa 01582 734437 www.lutonhoo.co.uk

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The Future of Luxury

Stay in a new Yachting Club Villa on Greece’s island of Crete, and feel like you're on your own private sailing boat

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he Elounda Beach Hotel & Villas is a member of The Leading Hotels of the World (lhw.com) and is located on the northeastern coast of Crete, with views over Mirabello Bay. It is open April to November and is a 40 minutes' drive from Heraklion International Airport “Nikos Kazantzakis”, which is served by several daily flights from Athens (35 minutes) and other major European cities.

minibars, wardrobes with LED lights, sunken baths, silk sheets and satin robes. The interior decor of the newbuild villas is highly contemporary, minimalist and stylish.

Perfect for health buffs, the 104 sqm Yachting Club Villas also come with their own private gyms and larger 50 sqm pools.

With your own private deck levels and a location on the water's edge, from the moment you awake, you’ll feel as if you’re in the middle of the ocean. But unlike being out at sea, you also have the opportunity to enjoy all the facilities of a five-star hotel – should you want to leave your oasis, there are sandy coves, verdant gardens, more than ten restaurants and bars, and a spa, all waiting to be explored.

The Elounda Beach Hotel & Villas was established in 1971 and was one of the first luxury hotels not just in Crete, but in Greece. Its reputable heritage is what has secured a loyal customer base and A-list clientele and continues to lead the way in the luxury travel sector.

The Elounda Beach Hotel has added luxurious new Yachting Club Villas, which come complete with 30 sqm infinity pools and views over the glistening turquoise Mirabello Bay in north-eastern Crete.

The Yachting Club Villas at the Elounda Beach Hotel are perfect for well-heeled, worldly travellers looking for a revitalising, yet relaxing alternative to the typical beach or boat charter holiday. Here you can combine the two.

Starting at 74 sqm, the Yachting Club Villas sport heated teak floors, leather-clad ceilings, nautical furniture, chic design, sliding doors, and outdoor decks with parasols and loungers, as well as diving gear and fishing tackle on request.

The top-class facilities will go down well with jetsetters, celebrities and royalty alike, as privacy, prestige and pleasure are all guaranteed. And best of all, you won't have to worry about getting seasick.

Guests will also find cutting-edge technology throughout, from screens embedded in the bathroom mirrors and TFT LCD televisions to 42-inch weather resistant speakers, and private movie theatres with Blu Ray players and Dolby surround sound.

There are 9 Yachting Club Villas in total (8 yachting villas and 1 yachting villa with gym).

Facilities in all Yachting Club Villas include: opulent living rooms with video projector private movie theatre with on-demand screening, electronic skylights in the bathroom, private swimming pools, outdoor decks, and TV and music systems, to name but a few.

There is also video-on-demand with a library of more than 80 films, plus wifi internet, wireless control panels that sync to your room's lighting and air conditioning, and even mattresses that adjust to your body temperature and allow you to sit up in bed and look out to the ocean.

Whatever your needs or desires, the Elounda Beach Hotel can satisfy it. Every guest has access to butler service at the push of a button, massages on request, fully stocked

Yachting Club Villas at Elounda Beach start from approx £1,597 per room per night (including breakfast) Yachting Club Villas with a gym start from approx £1,857 per room per night (including breakfast) 72

www.eloundabeach.gr

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Still rocking after 5 years on Broadway and following 3 years of ovation-inducing performances in London’s West End, the legendary Rock of Ages now heads out on UK Tour and arrives in Milton Keynes this August.

In the late 1980s, an aspiring rocker, Drew, works as a busboy in the trademark Hollywood bar/club The Bourbon Room. He falls instantly for a cute girl, Sherrie, who arrives from Kansas hoping to make it big in acting.

Meanwhile, German city developers, Hertz and his son Franz, convince the city's mayor to abandon the "sex, drugs and rockn-roll" lifestyle of the Sunset Strip to introduce "clean living" into the area. It is revealed that the club will be torn down in the process, much to the anger of the Mayor's city planner.

The musical throws in the mix a series of soft rock anthems from the 80s including: Don’t Stop Believin’, We Built This City, The Final Countdown, Wanted Dead or Alive, Here I Go Again, Can’t Fight this Feeling and I Want To Know What Love Is. Can Drew, Sherri and the gang save the strip–and themselves– before it's too late?

With lycra, liquor, lace and big hair everywhere this musical rocks!! If you grew up in the 80's you’ll love it!

Milton Keynes Theatre Mon 18th – Sat 23rd August 0844 8717652 www.atgtickets.com/miltonkeynes

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What’s on July 2014

Tues 1st – Sat 5th July Horrible Histories – Barmy Britain The Royal and Derngate, Northampton We all want to meet people from history. The trouble is everyone is dead!

So it’s time to prepare yourselves for Horrible Histories, live on stage with a brand new show, Barmy Britain, featuring all-new, amazing 3D effects!

Can you beat battling Boudicca? Has William Wallace met his match? Would you lose your heart or head to horrible Henry? Can evil Elizabeth entertain England? Will Parliament survive gunpowder Guy? Can King Charles keep his head? Would you stand and deliver to dastardly Dick Turpin? Escape the clutches of Burke and Hare, move to the groove with Party Queen Victoria and prepare to do battle in the frightful First World War. Ideal for schools and families alike, it’s the horrible history of Britain... with the nasty bits left in! www.royalandderngate.co.uk

faces based on the CGI series. Fans will have the opportunity to meet the booming-voiced Fat Controller, dress up as Thomas characters, have their photographs taken with Thomas and his friends, take part in sing-alongs and have lots of colouring and story time fun in Thomas’s Imagination Station. www.dayoutwiththomas.co.uk/bucks

Sun 6th July Family Fun Day 12pm – 6pm Wyboston Lakes Hotel Lots of sunshine, giggles, great food and fun ... Bring all the family along and join us at our Family Fun Day. Th¬is fabulous day out will include: Our renowned Waterfront BBQ, Circus Workshop, Bouncy Castle, Giant Jenga, Quoits and Connect Games, Beat ¬e Goalie, Live music from Aaron Clarke, Sangria and Pimm’s tent Family Fun Day tickets include a scrumptious BBQ - £10 Adults (over 12s), £5 Child (5-12) and FREE for infants (under 5s). www.wybostonlakesbookings.co.uk/EventsBooking

Tues 1st – Sat 12th July Singin’ in the Rain Milton Keynes Theatre Direct from the West End, this spectacular show is packed full of the charm, romance, comedy and tinseltown glamour of one the world’s best loved movies and features all the songs from the glorious MGM score including Good Morning, Make ‘em Laugh, Moses Supposes and the classic Singin’ in the Rain - Singin’ in the Rain showers you with everything you could wish for in a hit musical! www.atgtickets.com/milton-keynes

Fri 11th July The Swan – Sunset Cruise on The Ouse Champagne, canapes, cruising on The Ouse...The perfect way to watch the sunset. Join us on this evening cruise, the boat departs at 6.30pm, ready to watch the sun go down.

Only £25 per person (includes: 2 hour boat trip, canapes and Champagne. Full bar on board) www.bedfordswanhotel.co.uk

Fri 11th July Pearl Jam Milton Keynes Bowl Pearl Jam Plus Special Guests. One of the world's biggest rock bands, Pearl Jam, have announced they will be coming to the UK for a very special performance at the Milton Keynes Bowl. www.gigantic.com/pearl-jam/milton-keynes-bowl

Thurs 3rd July Affinity Social Networking 12.30pm - 2pm The Swan Hotel, Bedford Join us for relaxed networking - bringing people and businesses together in a social atmosphere! No Scary Speeches - just an informal get together to chat! We will email all attendees after the event with everyone's contact details, info and any special offers.

The cost is only £12 which includes a delicious Afternoon Tea and Bucks Fizz To book: jane@affinitymag.co.uk / 07507 602401/

Sun 13th July The Bromham Show 12pm – 5pm Village Hall Playing Field, Bromham This Annual Village show attracts up to 3000 visitors. A large central arena with many exciting displays including sheepdog & duck display, mini football, marching band and much more. Large craft fair marquee, varied food outlets, trade stalls, charity stalls, traditional games, classic cars, inflatable fun for children of all ages. Exhibition of locally grown produce and hand crafted goods, art, photography plus children's exhibit classes.

Adults £2.50, 9 years and under - free, Senior citizens and children aged 10-16 £1.00. Free car parking on site.

Sat 5th July Langford Family Fete 1pm A great family day out with Craft stalls, Children's rides, Barbecue, Magic show, Dance and Sports displays, Trade displays, Licensed bar, food stalls and other refreshments, many other attractions including a grand RAFFLE with great prizes.

Fri 4th – Sun 6th July Day Out with Thomas the Tank Buckinghamshire Railway Centre Thomas & Friends™ fans have the chance to meet their hero over the weekend when the world’s favourite little engine steams into the Buckinghamshire Railway Centre at Quainton, Bucks, for a new look Day Out With Thomas. This fun-filled event has been made even better for 2014 and offers pre-schoolers and their families the opportunity to take a ride on a real steam engine and meet Thomas the Tank Engine and other engines, with character

Sun 13th July Close Up and Personal Airshow Shuttleworth, Old Warden Aerodrome This show gives you the chance to get up close to our amazing aircraft and speak to our pilots and ground crew. There will be plenty to discover and learn with a selection of aircraft on static display around our paddock area for your enjoyment, and of course those all-important photograph opportunities. The flying display will feature some of our own unique aircraft as well as

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visiting aircraft. Pre-show entertainment will include live music from ‘Kitty Collins – Vintage Wartime Singer’, the children’s craft ‘creation station’ and the Collection’s historic vehicle parade.

Facilities include the restaurant (with free wifi), trading stalls, gift shop, as well as the children’s Jubilee playground.

Gate opens at: 9am Approx. flying display begins at: 2pm Ticket prices: £25 on gate / £20 online, children under 16 free when accompanied by a paying adult www.shuttleworth.org Sat 19th – Sun 20th July Bedford River Festival This year the festival, which attracted more than 300,000 people n 2012 promises even more fun and free activities along the River Great Ouse in Bedford,.

It’s also 100 years since the outbreak of the First World War and to commemorate those who served, there will be an historical village on and around Castle Mound which will take people back to the time of the ‘Great War’.

As well as showing the hardships of the time, the village will be full of things to do with children’s workshops and activities, Home Front cooking workshops and a bell-tented encampment with weapons, equipment and accessories showing what life was really like in the trenches. The atmosphere will continue with rifle firing displays and a cavalry arena showing the real ‘War Horse’ of the period in action and much, much more. www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk/outdoorevents Sat 19th July Childrens Facepainting & Basket Making Workshop 10am - 12pm The Art Centre, Bedford Cost £3 Thurs 24th July Petal Stitch 10am - 1pm The Art Centre, Bedford Try your hand at Hand sewn flowers, corsages and brooches Cost £15

Thurs 24th July The Sooty Show Bedford Corn Exchange Izzy Wizzy Let’s Get Busy - It’s The Sooty Show! Direct from Citv, Sooty heads into town in a fabulous new show to delight the whole family. Joining the nation’s favourite bear will be Sweep, Soo and Sooty’s TV Partner Richard Cadell - who will be attempting to keep Sooty from getting up to mischief! Boy will he have his hands full! It’s Sooty’s Birthday party and things aren’t going to plan. Sooty and Sweep get messy baking the Birthday cake and will Soo ever decide which dress to wear? Special party guests include legendary Sooty favourites Butch the bulldog and Ramsbottom the snake. So join in with all the fun and games at Sooty’s Birthday Party! There’s also a chance to meet Richard and Sooty after the show. A spectacular mix of magic, music and mess - guaranteed giggles for Sooty Fans old and new! Don’t miss it!

Tickets: £12 (adult), £10 (child), £38 (family) www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk Sat 26th July Café-in-the-Tower2.30pm – 5.30pm All Saints Church, Odell, Beds Drop in to sample a delicious range of cakes and cookies to go with your favourite cuppa. The Church Tower will also be open. The panoramic views from the top are well worth the climb. Step up to the challenge!

Tower trips £2 adults, £1 children aged 10 to 16.

Sun 27th July World Picnic Campbell Park, Milton Keynes The annual celebration of music, dance and culture from the world. Bring a picnic, sit back and enjoy. www.theparkstrust.com

Sun 27th July Pre– World War 1 “Upstairs Downstairs” Picnic Whipsnade Village Hall, Beds Dress up in clothes from the early 1900s and bring your whole family along for a fun day which will include an exhibition about pre WW1 life Upstairs and Downstairs, activities for children.

There will be an opportunity to research a relative with an expert on site. We hope to have copies of the log books for the primary schools in Kensworth, Studham and Whipsnade at the time so if you had family living in one of the villages at the time come and see if you can find their names! Bring your own picnic and decide whether you will be eating “upstairs on the manicure lawn” or “downstairs in the meadow”. Caritas Choir will be singing songs from the period from about 2pm, which will be followed by a cricket match or two!

Entrance FREE with Pre–WW1 refreshments available in the morning and for the cricket “tea”.

july2014.qxp_Jan 2014 Aff 18/06/2014 18:59 Page 76

A quiet night in...

Animals by Emma Jane Unsworth Laura and Tyler are two young women who have been tearing up the city streets for ten years, leaving a trail of angry drug dealers and spent men in their wake. Now Laura is engaged to be married and her teetotal classical pianist fiancé, Jim, is away overseas. Tyler wants to keep the party going but Laura is torn between the constant temptations provided by her best friend and a calmer life with Jim on the horizon. As the wedding draws closer, the duo’s limits are tested, along with their friendship.

Animals is hilarious, honest, raw and thoroughly moving.

It is about deciding when it's time to grow up, and recognising what you have to leave behind if you do!

Devil’s Knot Colin Firth and Reese Witherspoon star in the compelling true story of a murder trial that shocked America. In 1993, three eight-year-old boys are murdered in the US Bible Belt town of West Memphis, Arkansas. The community is traumatised by this appalling crime and three local teenage outcasts are soon charged with committing the murders as part of a Satanic cult ritual. Private investigator Ron Lax (Colin Firth) is initially in no doubt about the accused teens' guilt, but offers to help the defence because of his opposition to the death penalty. He becomes increasingly uneasy about the atmosphere of moral panic and lack of evidence to support the prosecution.

So too does Pamela Hobbs (Reese Witherspoon), the heartbroken mother of one of the victims, despite her natural desire for closure. The 'West Memphis Three' have already inspired four documentaries. Now acclaimed film-maker Atom Egoyan presents an engrossing fictionalisation of this disturbing case Release Date: 13th June Starred Up David Mackenzie's Starred Up stars Jack O'Connell as a troubled and explosively violent teenager transferred to adult prison where he finally meets his match - a man who also happens to be his father.

Eric (Jack O'Connell) is a violent young offender, prematurely thrown into the dark world of an adult prison. As he struggles to assert himself against the prison officers and the other inmates, he has to confront his own father, Nev (Ben Mendelsohn); a man who has spent most of his life in jail. As Eric forges allegiances with other prisoners, he learns that his rage can be overcome and discovers the new rules of survival.

But there are forces at work which threaten to destroy him.

Release Date: 14th July 78

April2014.qxp_Jan 2014 Aff 19/03/2014 18:05 Page 77

Affinity

Wedding Showcase

SUNDAY 2nd NOVEMBER 2014

Spectacular Fashion Show

THE CORN EXCHANGE St Paul's Square Bedford, MK40 1LE

Doors Open:

11am - 4pm FREE entry, bubbles, canapĂŠs and goodie bag Plus a free copy of Affinity Weddings Magazine for all Brides!

Everything you need for the perfect wedding all under one roof

www.affinitymag.co.uk

jane@affinitymag.co.uk

july2014 Cover .qxp_Layout 1 copy 12/06/2014 11:41 Page 1

JULY 2014 ISSUE 38

FREE www.affinitymag.co.uk

July 2014

AFFINITY LUXURY LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

We have it all...

Everything you need for Fathers day

A piece of Heaven

We visit Huma Island in the Philippines

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