Affininty Magazine

Affinity June 2013 Cover _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:32 Page 1

www.affinitymag.co.uk

JUNE 2013

ISSUE 25

FREE

June 2013

2

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

AFFINITY LUXURY LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

2

CELEBRATING

2 YEARS OF AFFINITY BEAUTY - FOOD - DRINK - HEALTH - FITNESS - STYLE - INTERIORS - MOTORS - WHAT’S ON

Affinity June 2013 Cover _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:32 Page 2

! ! !

!

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:42 Page 1

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:42 Page 2

13 r e b um

N

LICENSED CAFÉ BAR

EVENING DINING

2 OR 3 COURSE SET EVENING MENUS ARE AVAILABLE FROM £11.95 PER PERSON DON’T FANCY EATING? WHY NOT SAMPLE SOME WINE FROM OUR EXTENSIVE WINE LIST SERVED THURSDAY TO SATURDAY FROM 5.30PM PRE THEATRE DINING ALSO AVAILABLE ON THE MAJORITY OF SHOW NIGHTS - BOOKING IS ALWAYS ADVISED

Bedford Corn Exchange & Number 13 13 St. Paul’s Square, Bedford MK40 1SL Phone: (01234) 718044 Email: cornexchange@bedford.gov.uk CORN035_13

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

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:42 Page 3

SOLD

IS ONE OF THE SWEETEST WORDS IN THE ENGLISH LANGUAGE

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

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

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

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:42 Page 4

ER FF O

5 £7

0 £2

RM

L IA EC SP

ly al m or N

NO

AL

ee -S

LY

£7

e rs ve re

5

et

rd

fo ls ai

Chiropractic ttreatment can benefit the ffollowing:

CHRONIC/ACUTE BACK PAIN NECK RELATED HEADACHES SHOULDER/ELBOW PAIN GENERAL ACHES & PAINS TENNIS ELBOW PAIN NECK PAIN HIP/KNEE JOINT PAIN FROZEN SHOULDER MIGRAINES

00M `V\ HYL L_WLYPLUJPUN HU` VM [OLZL Z`TW[VTZ JHSS V\Y M `V\ HYL L_WLYPLUJPUN HU` VM [OLZL Z`TW[VTZ JHSS V\Y you JSPUPJ ;6+(@ MVY V\Y JVUZ\S[H[PVU HUK OLHS[O JOLJR MVY V\to J SPUPJ If;6 +(@want Y JVmake UZ\S[H[the PVU Hmost UK OLHof S[O life JOLJR

and be at your best, call now.

*(3320b 5De6Parys >Avenue, Bedford, MK42 2TW KTPU'IJOPYVWYHJ[PJJSPUPJ JV \R TelHHKTPU'IJOPYVWYHJ[PJJSPUPJ JV \R 01234 353937 )SVN! ^^^ ILKMVYKJOPYVWYHJ[VYISVN JV \R )SVN! ^^^ ILKMVYKJOPYVWYHJ[VYISVN JV \R

I +L 7HY`Z (]LU\L )LKMVYK 42 ;> I +L 7HY`Z (]LU\L )LKMVYK 42 ;>

/LHS[O HUK >LSSULZZ MVY 3PML /LHS[O HUK >LSSULZZ MVY 3PML

admin@bchiropracticclinic.co.uk ^ ^^^ ILKMVYK JOPYVWYHJ[VY JV \R ^^ ILKMVYK JOPYVWYHJ[VY JV \R

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:42 Page 5

Anglia Interiors Trading since 1974 Members of the KBSA

NEW SHERATON SHOWROOM OPENING SOON AT OUR BEDFORD STORE

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

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

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:42 Page 6

UPLIFTING UPLIFTING EENTERTAINMENT NTERTAINMENT A ATT MKT! MKT! MARTI PELLOW STARS IN

‘HOTTEST ACT ON ICE’ SUNDAY EXPRESS

+++++ ‘A MONUMENTAL SHOW’ SUNDAY EXPRESS MON 20 MAY - SAT 1 JUN

TUE 18 - SAT 22 JUN

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

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

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:42 Page 7

Welcome...

Hi everyone It’s our Birthday

16th June we show you some fabulous gift ideas any dad will love.

WOW we are two years old and what fun we have had in the last two years we have met some wonderful people, had fantastic support, reviewed some amazing products and sampled some of the best hotels, spas and restaurants in the counties whilst putting the magazine together each month.

This issue we have some great giveaways for our Birthday including an overnight “Gastro Gourmet Escape” at Wyboston Lakes Hotel on page 20.

Our fashion pages are all about summer and the beach (well we can hope can’t we?!) with our pick of the best bikinis, swimsuits and cover ups.

Let’s not forget the men this month with Father’s day on

June should be full of sunshine and BBQ’s, check out page 46 for a selection of wines perfect for accompanying any BBQ (even if we have to take cover indoors) and if you’re stuck for what BBQ to choose why not take a look at page 58 for inspiration.

Finally a big Thank you to all our advertisers, contributors and readers and to my lovely family and my fantastic team David and Julia I couldn’t do it without you guys, you’re the best.

Let’s raise a glass to the coming year!

Jane x ///1 ;!&!,0%

1 '1-#

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

Julia Crofts Advertising Manager Julia@affinitymag.co.uk 07507 602401 O1234 215523

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

Cover Image Miss Selfridge

2

2

2

2

2

2

2

2

3

All adverts are printed in good faith.

Affinity cannot take responsibility for the content of adverts.

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

@affinitymagz facebook.com/AffinityMag

Reproduction in whole or in part is strictly prohibited.

linkedin.com/pub/jane-zita-fry

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

www.affinitymag.co.uk

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 17/05/2013 14:07 Page 8

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:42 Page 9

CONTENTS 12 Jeff Murad exclusive 18 Summer hair 24 Exclusive Gastro gourmet readers offer

46 53 60 62 66

Fabulous BBQ Wines Perfect picnic Man of the month Gifts he’ll love FAB1 Rolls Royce project

30 Learn to say NO! 32 Diamond & Pearl Ball 38 Happy birthday Frescoes

42 Sumptious summer recipe

72 Mallorcan retreat 75 Quiet night in

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:42 Page 10

Hollywood skincare expert Jeff Murad talks to Affinity Magazine about his latest creations to stop wrinkles and maintain youthful looking skin For those that don’t know, Murad was launched in 1989 and was created by Howard Murad a practicing dermatologist and pharmacist, thus when you use a Murad product you are getting the best pharmatheutical-grade ingredients combined with the latest skincare technology you possibly can.

conditions CAN be treated – With Murad it really is possible to get great skin at any age!

Dr Murad believes in optimum skin health – that whatever your skincare problems and whatever your age, genetic and environmental skincare

Affinity were lucky enough to catch up with Jeff Murad, son of Howard, whilst he was on a trip to England.

What is the Philosophy of Murad Skincare?

We focus on health and the idea that health is beauty, in theory you can’t have one without the other. If you’re using the right products on your skin but you’re not sleeping well, you’re stressed out and not getting the right nutrition to build new collagen, elastine and tissue in your body then it’s going to show and thus topical products on their own wont be enough.

would you recommend as a typical Murad treatment plan for someone over 40 who is starting to develop wrinkles?

We have recognized three different types of ageing, there’s genetic ageing, which is just basically the pull of gravity and relates to someone who is relatively healthy and doesn’t spend too much time in the sun, so because of gravity and the ageing process that we all go through she is going to start seeing fine lines and wrinkles. We recommend products that contain retinol (which is one of the most potent skincare active ingredients known to man, it goes directly into the wrinkles stimulating your skin into producing new cells like it did when we were younger). We have a product called “Time Release Retinol Concentrate” which is perfect for this.

Celebrities who swear by Murad include Fearne Cotton, Holly Willoughby, Christine Bleakley, Nicole Scherzinger, Emily Blunt, Olivia Wilde, Georgia May Jagger and Hollyoaks girls.

What you’re saying is you really need a balance, so as well as using skincare products you need to lead a healthier life?

That’s right, but it’s not so much cutting out things that are considered bad for you, it’s getting a balance. If you like red wine or a burger we don’t tell you not to have them, it’s more what you don’t eat as opposed to what you do - you should add raw fruits and vegetables to your diet.

We also recommend supplements like glucosamine which provides the building block for your dermis – so you’re not saying you have to cut out everything just supplement the bad things with the good things?

Exactly, if you have a very strict diet and you’re not able to eat the things you love you’re going to be stressed, which means you’re not going to be happy and this will have a knock on effect on your skin I think I am speaking for most women when I say that when we turn 40, (not that I am) we start thinking about the effects of ageing and trying to stop it, what

12

Then there’s environmental ageing this is when someone has spent too much time out in the sun without sun protection, this type of skin ageing is going to have more hydra pigmentation and dark spots; the skin is going to be duller so for someone with environmental ageing glucosamine is going to be great. She will also need a lot of anti-oxidants both in her products and her diet, in particular Vitamin C which is great for renewing cells and getting rid of pre-radical environmentally ageing skin.

I notice a lot of your products have Vitamin C in them.

Yes they do, we actually have an entire line called “Environmental Shield” which is dedicated to environmental ageing skin and Vitamin C is the vital

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:42 Page 11

ingredient throughout that range; it has a number of other ingredients but that’s the main important one.

A woman over 40 what would you say is the most important thing they can do to improve their appearance?

I would say to eat a lot of raw fruit and vegetables. They say you have to drink 8 glasses of water a day, I’m not sure where this comes from, but research shows it is better to get your water from raw fruit and vegetables, rather than just a glass of water. When you drink glasses of water you’re on the toilet all the time, whereas with something like cucumber the water slowly releases into your body and has all the trace minerals to help penetrate into your cells, so it’s going to do a whole lot more for your body – we always recommend that people “Eat Their Water!

Would you recommend using a separate sunscreen or have it as part of your moisturizer?

There is no need to have it separately. If you have a good moisturizer with an SPF you don’t need 2 products to do the same thing.

Do all your moisturizers contain SPF? Yes our day moisturizers all contain SPF. Do I need to wear sunscreen even when I’m inside?

You need UVA protectection when you’re inside. The UV rays which cause sunburn can’t penetrate through glass and they don’t really penetrate through clouds, but UVA rays, which are the longer waves, do much more of the damage that cause wrinkles. They can penetrate through glass and through clouds, so you should use a good UVA protection no matter what the weather is.

How often would you say a woman over 40 should exfoliate her skin?

Daily, we recommend even twice a day; people who have sensitive skin possibly only once a day. By the time you’re 40 your skin is turning over much slower. Just one of our standard treatment products such as “Age Diffusing Serum” or “Active Serum” are fairly gentle exfoliators and most people will have no problem using them twice a day.

Any kind of intense treatment like a facial peel or a very strong mask then use only once a week Any further advice for women over 40?

In addition to using sunscreens and eating the right foods like fruits and vegetables, make sure that you take time for yourself. And allow yourself to de-stress and maintain passion in your life and keep your mood elevated. That is going to have much more impact on your complexion than anyone realizes.

Finally, the ONE Murad product no woman should be without?

We have just launched a new product that I think is really amazing it’s “Intensive C Radiance” - it really provides results that you can see after just one application, it is a wonderful exfoliator, or we do have a really wonderful moisturizer called “Hydro Dynamic Ultimate Moisture” it would be difficult for me to choose between the two of them, so I think they should have both!

Thank you Jeff, I just want to add that about six months ago I started using Murad products myself and I can’t rave enough how good they are, once you use them you won’t stop!

Murad products are available from spas across the country or online from www.murad.co.uk

WIN! WIN! WIN! We have 3 x Intensive-C Radiance Peel’s to giveaway so you can see for yourself what all the fuss is about, just tell us “Who was the founder of Murad?” and send to info@affinitymag.co.uk

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:43 Page 12

The Healing Power of

Food I

n our fast-paced lifestyles we often seem to be losing the vital link between our food and the diet we eat as a means to stay healthy and to help heal our body when we become ill. Food has become something to grab and prepare quickly or to fill-up on when hunger strikes.

Leafy and green vegetables from kale to broccoli appear to have compounds which protect against several cancers and are both rich in calcium and vitamin C.

Ayurveda has successfully been using food to heal the body for thousands of years. And, it was Hippocrates (431BC), the father of modern medicine, who said ‘Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food’.

Oily fish with its high Omega three content can help to reduce inflammation in the body, which plays a part in many diseases from heart disease, skin problems, arthritis and cancer. Omega 3 is also found in nuts and seeds. It plays a vital role in balancing HDL and LDL in favour of healthy cholesterol.

The first step to benefiting from food to keep us healthy and in balance, is to eating seasonally; nature provides foods to keep us healthy and our bodies in balance throughout the year.

Garlic is a great scavenger of free radicals and a clove of fresh garlic is a great cardio-protector for the heart.

Brussel sprouts contain the compound sulphur which helps the liver detoxify the body more effectively.

Many of these foods have been described as super foods; I would describe a super food as one which has health benefits that can really have a direct impact on our health, as well as proving the essential nutritional building blocks of protein, carbohydrate, vitamins and minerals.

Red berries - recent research is looking at the benefits of various berries to aid memory loss and delay the onset of Alzheimer’s and dementia. Cherries are great for anyone suffering from gout and arthritis.

Here are just a few of my favourites: Apples are a rich source of vitamin C and pectin, which lowers cholesterol and a rich source of Quercetin which is helpful for seasonal allergy sufferers’.

Fresh ginger is a great digestive aid and energy boost, improving appetite and helping the body to assimilate nutrition from food for the body.

All of these foods are easy to incorporate into our diet, are readily available and all share in common the ability to have a positive impact on our health.

Porridge helps to reduce cholesterol and prevents the build-up of plaque in the arteries. As it’s a rich source of silica it’s valuable for those with weak nails and hair. It is also helpful for slow releasing carbohydrate to keep blood sugar balance.

Health tip Choose a wide variety of whole grains and reduce your reliance on wheat to increase energy levels, reduces weight by balancing blood-sugar levels and reduces your risk of developing Type2 diabetes.

Honey has a plethora of health benefits. With antibacterial and anti-fungal properties, it is used as an aid in healing, both internal and external ulcers. It makes a fantastic cough and cold remedy with ginger, elderberry and lemon.

14

Carolyn Wood - Herbalist and Naturopath 07944 886502

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:43 Page 13

st

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:43 Page 14

Gastro Gourmet Escape D

o you sometimes get so carried away with work, family commitments and just life in general that you forget about some quality time for just the two of you?

If that’s the case then I suggest paying a little visit to Wyboston Lakes Hotel and Y Spa for their fabulous Gastro Gourmet Escape, you will come away so chilled out you’ll practically be floating on air.

This escape was just what my husband and I needed so we packed an overnight bag and set off for a little bit of R and R. We decided to use the Y Spa thermal suite on arrival (you can choose to use this on day of arrival or day of departure), We got changed into our fluffy gowns and slippers and spent the afternoon indulging ourselves in the fabulous space that has been created combining hot and cold experiences using the sauna, steam room, experience showers and, my favourite, the hydro therapy pool which I have to admit to spending most of my time in - the temperature is perfect and it relaxed me so much that when we went to chill on the beds in the ‘Time Out’ room both of us fell asleep. It is a pure haven of relaxation.

After experiencing the delights of the thermal suite we made our way to the Spa café where we enjoyed a glass of champagne and scrumptious, wonderfully presented afternoon tea before heading up to our room for some more chill out time, then heading down to dinner in the newly refurbished Waterfront Restaurant.

16

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:43 Page 15

Whilst making our choices from the delicious gourmet menu we enjoyed a drink and some nibbles in the bar area with its glorious outlook over the lake. I have to say the Tapas style roast chorizo with cherry tomatoes is an absolute must - it was truly tasty.

English dishes and modern European classics are on offer. Our stunning starters included smoked mackerel pâté with pickled cucumber, horseradish crème fraîche and warm crusty baguette, which was superb, as was the crispy duck salad with cucumber, mouli, mango dressing and hoisin dipping sauce.

We took our time savouring the whole evening as the atmosphere in the restaurant was buzzing.

For mains we dined on Atlantic cod loin in beer batter with triple cooked chips and mushy peas, which was full of flavour and cooked perfectly. The Thai fish curry with fragrant rice, green beans and crispy fried shallots certainly didn’t disappoint, the flavours were mouthwatering.

You are spoilt for choice with the desserts so to make it easy the menu offers a miniature version of all 6 to share, truly indulgent but definitely not to be missed.

There is an extensive wine list to select from to compliment the meal.

After having eaten our really delightful meal we retired to our room for a heavenly nights sleep, waking in the morning having fully recharged our batteries and indulged ourselves in a little self absorption.

The final part of our stay was enjoying the delights of a buffet style breakfast, offering continental as well as traditional English; this set us up for the day and we headed home completely relaxed and stress free.

We are offering one lucky reader the chance to win this fabulous break turn to page 20 for details You can enjoy the Gastro Gourmet Escape for £138 per person per night ThursdaySunday. www.wybostonlakes.co.uk

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:43 Page 16

Summer Hair Get hair summer ready with these products and styling tools, guaranteed to bring you beachy waves with minimal fuss.

Perfect for those wannabe surfer babes!

S

ea-salt and texturising sprays are everywhere at the moment, and the best way to achieve a cool rock ‘n roll finish is by spraying these through mid-lengths and ends. We love Bumble and Bumble Surf Spray (£20.50) and Vo5’s Give Me Texture Dry Texturising Spray (£3.49); avoid your roots, otherwise you’ll end up looking like you’ve just been wiped out by a wave! Plait or twist hair whilst damp and leave to dry naturally, when you unravel your hair you’ll be left with effortless waves even Drew Barrymore would be jealous of. If you find your hair tends to frizz when drying naturally, warm a small amount of serum through your hands and smooth over any flyaways.

Ever thought of using your straightening irons to add a wave to your hair? By simply directing the irons at 90 degree angles whilst gliding through the hair you can achieve a natural-looking wave that adds great texture to the hair. Just make sure you use a heat protectant spray to avoid damaging your hair.

If you love your hair gadgets, the new styling tool from BaByliss Pro will have you in a spin. The BaByliss Pro Perfect Curl is perfect for those who struggle with curling or waving their hair. With three different heat and timer settings you can choose how you create your look, with hair being taken into the ceramic curl chamber and released with a perfect curl, suited to your hair type and texture. Simple, and can be used on midlength to long hair. Definitely worth looking at if you find yourself ending up with sizzled fingers rather than glossy curls.

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:43 Page 17

Holiday Hints Going away? Make sure you and your hair are ready to have fun in the sun; • If you colour your hair, ask your stylist to recommend some UV products to help fight the fade.

• Keep a wide tooth comb in your beach bag; once you’ve been for a swim, rinse hair thoroughly and comb through whilst damp.

• Pop on a leave-in conditioner and stick on a hat to give hair a daytime pamper whilst you soak up the rays. Hair will be nourished come the evening.

• Change your parting – this will avoid any burnt scalps and discomfort. Plaits and braids are great at keeping hair neat, but make sure you spray some suntan lotion on your scalp as it will be exposed to those rays.

• Hair tends to lighten up in the sun, so it may be worth putting off those highlights and see what nature can do for you and your locks.

For more hair tips from Kelly visit our hair clinic at www.affinitymag.co.uk Kelly gay www.klghairadvice.com 19

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:43 Page 18

WIN! WIN! WIN! Enjoy a Gastro Gourmet Escape for 2 at the fabulous Wyboston Lakes Hotel and Spa

Wyboston Lakes has so much to offer - great golf, an exceptional spa, wonderful walks, fishing for those who like to catch a few and great home cooked food in The Waterfront Restaurant & Bar. It’s in a great location, with Cambridge and Milton Keynes a stone’s throw away and easy access to and from London King’s Cross.

One lucky Affinity reader will win this fantastic “Gourmet Getaway Escape” for two which includes the following: • • • • • •

A glass of champagne and afternoon tea on day of arrival Course Table D`hote Dinner with bottle of recommended Wine, Overnight accommodation Full English or continental breakfast.

Three hour use of Y Spa Thermal suite on day of arrival or morning of departure Use of Wyboston Lakes and leisure club

To be in with a chance of winning tell us “What is the name of the restaurant at Wyboston Lakes” and send to info@affinitymag.co.uk *Terms and conditions apply

20

www.wybostonlakes.co.uk

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 17/05/2013 13:41 Page 19

C&B Home and Garden Maintenance

DO YOU W WANT ANT TO TO HOST AN INTERNATIONAL INTERNA ATIONAL STUDENT STUDENT?

One off jobs to regular maintenance

‘

This is a great job and has provided our family with a valuable extra income as well as being lots ots of fun and a cultural experience. perience.

For all your home and garden needs

’

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

Bright World World Guardianships Ltd takes care of international boarding students in UK independent schools. We We are looking for families to host our students for some weekends and half terms.

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

For more information please contact ecruitment T ribe, Host Family RUK ecruitm Manager Tribe, BrightLindsay World Guardianships Ltd is a Recruitment wide guardianship organisation and takes care of international children studying at lindsay@brightworld.co.uk UK boarding schools in this area. We are looking for families to www.brightworld.co.uk www .brightworld.co.uk host our students for some weekends and half terms. for more information please contact: ‘‘‘Bright ‘Bright World is committed to safeguarding and promoting Lindsay Tribe, Host Family Recruitment Manager the welfare of children and young people and expects all lindsay@brightworld.co.uk staff and volunteers to share this commitment.”

“Bright World is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and for commitment.”

Accredited byand AEGIS, Association Educational young people expects all staffofand volunteersGuardians to share this International Students

www.brightworld.co.uk

carolyn612@btinternet.com

%3 1%!$8 &/1 3(% 24--%1 %22)#! -!.)#41% !.$ 0%$)#41% 9 4,,(%!$ ()'(,)'(32 6)3( #43 !.$ ",/6$18 9 /1/#!./), #/.$)3)/.).' 31%!3-%.3 9 43 !.$ ",/6$18 *423 9 !,& ,%' 6!7 ")+).) !.$ 4.$%1!1- *423 9 4,,2%3 /& 2%-) 0%1-!.%.3 %8%,!2(%2 *423 9 !)1 %73%.2)/.2 &1/- 9 01!8 3!. 1)$!82 9

6)3( &1%% 3/0 40

7#,4$%2 !341$!82 !.$ 24"*%#3 3/ !5!),!"),)38

!23,% !.% %$&/1$ %$&/1$2()1%

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:43 Page 20

The alternative guide to

weight loss

When it comes to weight loss there are hundreds of 'don't eat this and don't eat that' and 'do this exercise, do that exercise' but healthy, sustained weight loss needs to be looked at much deeper than just food or exercise alone. A more rounded approach is required. Look at your life as a whole, your relationship with food, your reason for wanting to lose weight, troubles that might stand in the way.

Write a goal map

Find out your food intolerances Many people suffer from food allergies and intolerances which can cause digestive imbalances, disrupt vitamin and mineral absorption and can slow down weight loss. Local Nutritional therapist Donna Milligan sees clients on a regular basis to help combat these issues. Her 'Wellness MOT' consultation tests clients for food intolerance and wellness risks and the information is used to put together a plan of action, which may involve changes in diet, lifestyle and a supplement plan. Further details at www.scio-wellness.com

Goal Mapping is a fantastic, creative coaching tool that complements personal training perfectly. It enables you to raise your awareness about what you want, to set clear and compelling goals and to focus on the steps you must take in order to achieve them. With Goal Mapping you will create a mind-set for success that will help you to get out of your own way so that you can have the outcomes you want in all areas of your life.

For more information on Goal Mapping visit www.positivegoals.co.uk or follow Positive Goals on Twitter @positivegoalsuk

22

Get support No one ever said losing weight was easy. So a great support network is vital. I know some people like to keep their weight loss plan a secret from loved ones but you need someone to confide in when things are tough and, most importantly, someone to celebrate with when you are doing well. A personal trainer is a great confidant, they will always keep confidential information as such and they will celebrate big and small goals with you. A good personal trainer will know what to say and when to say it to make sure you stay on track.

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:43 Page 21

Track your progress

Allow for things to go wrong The term yo-yo dieter didn’t happen by accident - it is a common phrase for a reason because it happens to most people when they diet. Often you’ll be following a particular plan and it’ll be going well but something happens and sends you off track. It could be the simplest of things - a drink after work, a birthday, a wedding celebration and apparently all is lost. But it’s not! We all have bad days with food and exercise, so accept that, put it behind you and carry on. Allow for the odd day to go wrong but don’t let one bad day mar all the good days you’ve had.

At work we have one-to-ones with our boss, we have monthly reviews and annual evaluations, so why not do the same for your health and fitness.

Record the following: Weight, measure with a tape measure your chest, your waist (you can do 2 measurements here if you wish - just above your belly button and just below), your hips and your thighs.

These are your tangible measurements. Now record your ‘non-tangible’ measurements. Write down on a scale of 1-10 how you feel about the following (10 being perfect, couldn’t be better, 1 being dreadful, couldn’t be worse) Your sleep, your energy levels, your ability to move/aches/pains, your general health (do you fight off colds, sickness bugs well), your confidence level and any other area you feel you would like to measure (e.g. if you smoke you can measure how many cigarettes you smoke a day, how bad your sugar cravings are, how you feel when you wake up etc etc) Then at the end of each month without looking at the previous months score, record how you feel

Don’t reward yourself with food When I did my personal training qualifications my nutrition lecturer always used to say to us “Don’t reward yourself with food, you’re not a dog!”

At the time I thought it was a little harsh but looking deeper into it I totally agree. If you start to tie food with your emotions you will find losing weight so much harder. If you reward yourself with food when you succeed you undoubtedly will do the same when you have a bad day and that’s when we start to have a problem with maintaining a good diet plan. We all have good and bad days so reward and comfort yourself with other things. Find something that motivates you to want to eat well, it could be treating yourself to a new gym kit, a massage, a new gadget etc and when you have a bad day comfort yourself with something other than food e.g. a hot bath or a long run.

For more information on weight loss and personal training please feel free to contact Julie at jules@hollgroup.com - www.hollfitness.co.uk. @hollfitness Holl Fitness Studio 23

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 17/05/2013 13:41 Page 22

READERS OFFER

Buy a Gastro Gourmet Escape for 2 at Wyboston Lakes Hotel and get a second night B&B for 2 people FREE. We will also give you a bottle of wine* with your meal in The Waterfront Restaurant on the second night – FREE!

W

yboston Lakes has so much to offer - great golf, an exceptional spa, wonderful walks, fishing for those who like to catch a few and great home cooked food in The Waterfront Restaurant & Bar. It’s in a great location, with Cambridge and Milton Keynes a stone’s throw away and easy access to and from London King’s Cross.

Enjoy a Gastro Gourmet Getaway for 2 at Wyboston Lakes Hotel and indulge in all those things you love plus get one extra night for FREE! This exclusive break includes: • A glass of champagne and afternoon tea on day of arrival • Three course Table D`hote Dinner with bottle of recommended wine on the first night • Wine on second night • Full English or continental breakfast on both mornings • Use of Y Spa Thermal suite* • Full use of Wyboston Lakes and leisure club Don’t miss out on this great offer only £138 per person.

Call: 0333 7007667 and quote ‘AFFINITY GOURMET OFFER’ when booking Full Terms and conditions apply • All packages are subject to availability and must be taken before 31st August 2013 • Offer available Thursday to Sunday nights inclusive • Prices based on two people sharing a standard double or twin room • Y Spa guests must be 18 years of age or over • Afternoon tea available daily between 4.00 pm and 6.00 pm • Wyboston Health & Leisure Club is available to use on your arrival day until 2.00 pm on departure day

• Rooms can be cancelled up to 2.00 pm on day of arrival without charge, after this time cancellations and no shows incur a charge equivalent to the first night’s stay • Any Y Spa treatments must be pre-paid and are non-refundable in the event of a cancellation • Valid for new bookings only • Wine offered is for the second night of stay and is the recommended house wine • Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer or promotion

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:43 Page 23

Don’t miss your copy of Affinity Weddings OUT NOW

s

g Weddin

- Selected Retailers - Wedding Exhibitions - Wedding Venues -

"

!

Read it online www.affinitymag.co.uk

!

! ! % ! " " "#

" ! # !

$ ' ! # #

!

% !" & ! ( ' $! % #

$! ! $! #

! '

$! "

!

! % !"

"

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:45 Page 24

In the Swim Butterfly By Matthew Williamson £45 Debenhams

Black Swimsuit Asos

Miraclesuit Red Swimsuit £140 House of Fraser

Balconette Sculpting Swimswuit £49 La Redoute £26 Next Black Apple Print Swimsuit £39.50 Marks & Spencer Jasper Conran £16 Debenhams Floozie By Frostfrench £38 Debenhams

£29.50 Mark & Spencer

Bloomtastic Thong Sandals £37 Accessorize

Janet Reger £42 Debenhams City Scape Swimwear Asda

£10 Next

£32 Marisota Pink Cut Out Swimsuit F&F Tesco

Sea by Melissa Odabash Bag £25 Marisota

Seafolly nautical Swimsuit £99 House of Fraser Tropical leaf Swimsuit £26 MandCo

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:45 Page 25

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:45 Page 26

Bikini Babe Blue Feather Bikini £45 La Redoute

Adeola Bikini £40 Crew Clothing

£35 Marisota Bikini Marks & Spencer

Printed Bikini £45 La Redoute

Kaftan £22 Next

Checked Bikini F&F Tesco

Floral Twist Bandeau £15 Tie Side Briefs £14 Accessorize

Bandini Trim Crochet Stetson £22 Accessorize Boutique Bead Bikini £9.99 Get the Label Butterfly By Matthew Williamson £22 Debenhams

Iron Fist Gold Digger Zombie Bandeau Bikini £35 The Vestry

Bandeau Bikini £25 Vestry

Pink Sandals £16 Bank Fashion Striped Bikini £34 La Redoute

Tie Dye Bikini £26 Next

Fat Face

Top £19.50 Bottoms £12.50 Marks & Spencer

Two Tone Blue Bikini £45 La Redoute

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:46 Page 27

Cover Up Floral Print Maxi £52 Accessorize Bandini Kaftan £35 Monsoon

Blue Print Kaftan £30 Fifty Plus

Kaftan £20 Bank Next

Sea by Melissa Odabash Kaftan £35 Marisota

Principles By Ben De Lisi Top £24 Bottoms £16 Debenhams Santa Cruz Maxi Dress £55 Monsoon BIBA tortoise shell sunglasses £89 House of Fraser Straw Tote Gap, Midsummer Place, Milton Keynes Olivia Tie Dye Kaftan £45 Monsoon

Scarf Print Kaftan £35 Accessorize

Salinas Gem Sandals £35 Accessorize

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:46 Page 28

You can never really say ‘YES’ until you Learn to say ‘NO’

30

“

How many times has someone asked you to do something, you really want to say “NO” to but the words coming out of your mouth are “YES!”

M

ost of us have trouble saying “NO”. We want to please, and so saying "NO" can prove to be a hard thing to do. We don't want to cause a possible confrontation, hurt someones feelings or have someone think less of us because we don't agree.

Nonetheless, you can't say “Yes” to everything. The hardest part isn't saying the words, but rather convincing yourself that "No" is okay.

“

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:46 Page 29

Be appreciative It's almost never an insult when people ask you to do something. They're asking for your help because they trust you and they believe in your capabilities to help.

So thank them for thinking of you or making the request/invitation. Don't worry; this doesn't need to lead to a “yes”.

Practice Choose some easy, low-risk situations in which to practice saying “No”. Say “No” when a waiter offers you another drink. Say “No” when someone tries to sell you something. Go into a room on your own, shut the door, and say “No” out loud ten times. It sounds crazy, but building your “No” muscle helps

Saying “No” is about respecting your own time and making sure you're not spreading yourself too thin. It is great to help people, but if you say “Yes” to everyone who asks it will be impossible to do it all. You may also find that you're frequently taking on tasks you don't like or enjoy, this isn't good for anyone, because you're not going to do your best, you’ll become stressed and resentful which isn’t good for anyone! If you say "Yes" too much and "No" too little, you're probably well aware of these feelings. But how do you stop? All you need is a little forethought and a little confidence in yourself and voila “Yes” will become “No” without you even realizing it!

DON’T be sorry It’s a fact that women apologise far more often than men. Don’t go down the apology route, instead use decisive phrases, apologising about why you can’t accept weakens your position. Entering into another discussion gives the other person the chance to change your mind

Say “No” to the request, not the person You must make it clear that you're declining an invitation you’re not rejecting the person who’s asking you. Let them know what you respect about them — maybe you admire the work they’re doing, or recognize their kindness or hard work. Even if you don't particularly like the person, by simply being polite and kind will communicate to them that you aren't rejecting them personally.

Buy yourself some time Being caught unaware means you’re more likely to feel indebted and pressurised into agreeing, give yourself a breather, even if its just ten minutes, saying “I’m in the middle of something, can I get back to you”, or “I need to check my diary that date is ringing a bell”, gives you time to think of a good response Be as resolute as they are pushy Some people don't give up easily, so give yourself permission to be just as pushy as they are. They'll respect you for it. You can make light of it if you want ("I know you don't give up easily — but neither do I. I'm getting better at saying no.")

Explain why The particulars of your reason for saying no make very little difference. But having a reason does. Maybe you’re too busy, or you feel that what they're asking you to do doesn’t play to your strengths. Be honest about why you're saying no.

Remember that there are only so many hours in the day.

This means that whatever you choose to take on limits your ability to do other things. So even if you somehow CAN fit a new commitment into your schedule, if it’s not more important than what you would have to give up to do it (including time for relaxation and self care), you really DON’T have the time!

Establish a pre-emptive “No” We all have certain people in our lives who tend to make repeated, sometimes burdensome requests of us. In those cases, it's better to say “No” before the request even comes in. Let that person know that you're really focused on a couple of things in your life and trying to reduce your obligations in all other areas. If it's your friend who tends to make the request, discuss with them about how busy you are with family, work etc and where you should be spending your time etc so when their request come in, you can refer to your earlier conversation.

31

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:50 Page 31

Charity Ball Diamond & Pearl

In aid of Keech Hospice Care and in memory of Pat McGirl Friday 15th November 2013 Arrival 7.00pm - Carriages 1.00am The Sharnbrook Hotel A/6 Park Lane, Sharnbrook, Beds MK44 1LX

A Glittering Drinks & Canapé Reception A Sumptious Three Course Meal Raffle , Exclusive Auctions and much more....

Tickets £50 per person

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

MOGGERHANGER PARK - SIMPLY UNDISCOVERED -

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

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

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

enquiries@moggerhangerpark.com 01767 641007

We wish you a delightful stay!

The Groom’s House

- GUEST ACCOMMODATION -

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:50 Page 32

Learning Mindfulness M

Health and Safety Executive reported that out of 27 million days lost through illness 22.7 million were due to work related illness and over 10 million of these days were due to stress, depression or anxiety. It is a real problem and of course days lost does not tell us about the human misery that stress and anxiety can cause for the individual and family concerned.

indfulness is a word I have read and heard quite a lot of lately, you may not have heard it much, yet - but I could almost guarantee if that is the case, that you will hear it a lot more over the next few months.

What is it? Well it is used usually to mean the focussing of our attention and awareness. The original concept has its roots in Buddhism but it is not a religious term and is taught independent of religion. It has been popularised in the West by someone called Jon Kabat-Zinn and in the last couple of decades has been used therapeutically in the treatment of a number of disorders, anxiety, stress, pain, depression and addictions. Most recently it is being used in schools, particularly to help students studying for and sitting examinations and most students report it to be helpful.

It’s no surprise perhaps given the economic climate that last year saw a 7% increase in hospital admissions for stress, the highest admission rates being among people aged 18 -60, and lets be honest we all probably know people who, or have ourselves, experienced stress that has not resulted in an admission to hospital. Last year the

So learning to recognise stress is important but, if we are stressed and can see the signs developing in ourselves or others, what can be done? That is where mindfulness comes in.

34

We have probably all had the experience of starting a chocolate bar and then being amazed that it had all gone - we simply hadn’t been aware of eating it. Or perhaps driving somewhere and realising when we get there, that we don’t actually remember the journey. We sort of run on automatic pilot and for many it will have become an integral part of surviving our busy lives – thinking of one set of things while doing something else – multi- tasking.

But if we are doing that regularly then we can be building up unhelpful responses that can, in the long term, cause damage.

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:50 Page 33

Being aware of something of course doesn’t solve it, but it may be the first step towards a solution. When we can slow down and be ‘present’ in the experience we often see things in a different light. A previous colleague had started a new job which she was finding stressful; it was fast paced with a lot of new skills to learn. She phoned one night worried that she wasn’t picking things up quickly enough (this was week 2) and that her manager was irritated by her asking questions for a second time. The next day she had a glowing appraisal about how well she fitted in and how quickly she was picking things up. What had happened was that she was so busy trying to take everything in and worried about her own inadequacies that she simply wasn’t picking up the positives that others were giving her.

When we can slow down we often can see things differently. It can give us the chance to see things from all sides and that can be vitally important. Through mindfulness we can be aware, focus on the moment, stop ourselves running on autopilot and, by creating that gap between experiences and our reactions, we can stop some knee jerk responses that often lead to further problems.

I am sure we have all had the experience of arriving home after a difficult day then completely over reacting to something really quite small which then causes another problem in itself. If we had been able to slow down we’d have been able to see that what we needed was to off load a bit about the day not snap off the head off the first person to open their mouth! Mindfulness can help us make wiser choices.

But like many things of value, mindfulness is something we have to learn, then practice. Check out some of the websites below to try a mindfulness exercise for yourself.

It certainly won’t do any harm and you may find it very helpful. www.blackdoginstitute.org.au/docs/10.Mindfulness inEverydayLife.pdf

Mindfulness is learning to be aware of the present. In many ways the opposite of what was just described. The first step of mindfulness is awareness, being aware of the present situation – being actually present in the moment.

Mindfulness exercises like those found in the links below teach us to focus on the present and be aware of what is going on in our body and mind and becoming aware of what we are thinking and doing. Often this is something we have tried hard NOT to do, we have all tried to block out the headache or the worry we have about something and just carry on. This may be effective in getting through the day but it is in many ways laying the foundations for later problems – it is by being aware of these issues that we learn to deal with them effectively, not by shutting them out and trying to pretend they don’t exist, or that they don’t bother us. Even if we can ‘block’ these things out during the day often when we then go to bed we find we can’t sleep because our mind is racing and is full of anxieties.

www.freemindfulness.org/download www.psychologytoday.com/blog/inpractice/201302/6-mindfulness-exercises-eachtake-less-1-minute www.youtube.com/watch?v=iH3_64mLCU8 Mindfulness Based Stress reduction has been shown to be really effective in dealing with stress by helping us to slow down, stop using some of our automatic responses, see situations more clearly and respond more effectively to difficult or complex situations. This can help us achieve greater balance and resilience both at work and at home.

For more information and help dealing with emotional issues that impact on your own life 07921 193479 info@attunededucation.com www.attunededucation.com 35

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:50 Page 34

# !

! % ! !

# !

15 % "

"

)

% ! '

'

! $

"

"

%' ! '

# " %

)

!

# "

# #

'# ) %

!

, ! #

#

#

" #

! ' ! # -

! !

* "

! !%!

! " # % %

# !

)

!

%

!

) ! #

%

% 23 ! % ! " " % ! $ % ! # %' # % $ )# ! % ! % # % ! % ! % " ' # % ! # % ! )

% !

%

#

&&

! !

*

(

/12)64 *

%

#

!

%

'

# #

15

!

!

%* " %. !

407

$ "

" % ! ! %

'% !#

" %

+

" % !

! )

%

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:50 Page 35

)" -

&

)"

!

$!

#) & #& - "* ( (# ,$ & " #)& )" %) ( "()&#( '( ' (( " #& -#)& '$ - " ( ( ! (# ! ( #)& # ')$$ &' " + " '$ '(' (# ' )'' $ "' #& -#)& + " -

" ## (# '(

' *

'( ) )'( " & !$ " #& +

&#! )'( .

* & )$ & # " $/ ' " " ' )$ )"( '( (# &

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:50 Page 36

Happy Birthday Frescoes 10 Years Old

A

ffinity are not the only ones celebrating a birthday this month, so is our favourite Bedford coffee shop Frescoes - although they are a little older than us, ten years to be precise.

To celebrate their birthday Kevin Kavanagh, properitor of Frescoes, will be giving every customer who pops in for a drink in June a complimentary raffle ticket, this ticket could make you the winner of a fantastic new state of the art coffee machine called The ROK. It is a stylish, durable and easy to use coffee maker with no electrical parts; this is ideal for anyone wanting to produce quality espresso, americano, cappuccino and latte at home or at work.

As well as giving one away Kevin will also be selling the coffee machines at Frescoes for anyone wanting to make coffee that tastes just as good as his! The machines will be selling for £120 which includes a half kilo bag of proper ground coffee and an amazing 10 year guarantee.

Now there’s no excuse not to pop into Frescoes for a coffee this month - you never know you may come out the owner of a sleek, contemporary new coffee machine!

Kevin will be drawing the winner on 5th July – his actual birthday - 21 again I think he said!

Frescoes Coffee House 20 Mill Street Bedford 01234 325747

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:50 Page 37

% "! # #

!& !

!

!

'

$ $$$

' $ ' $

" "

CAST IRON CATERING Est. 1998

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

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

#

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:50 Page 38

Dining Delights at

Number 13 We decided to try out Bedford’s newest bar and cafe, Number 13, where theatre-goers can enjoy a meal or drink before a show at The Corn Exchange.

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:50 Page 39

Off we went to try the pre-show dining experience.

Inside Number 13 it is fresh, airy and contemporary, there are sofas to lounge on as well as tables for dining, the staff were all very friendly and helpful.

On arrival we were offered pre-dinner drinks which we sipped whilst mulling over the tasty looking menu. I was pleasantly surprised at the prices on the menu, 2 Courses for £11.95 and 3 Courses for £14.50.

Choices were finally made with starters being Tempura Battered King Prawns with a sweet chilli dip, the batter was crisp and light (as it should be) and complimented the succulent juicy prawns perfectly. Warm chicken & bacon salad with a honey & mustard dressing was just as delightful with the bacon effortlessly crispy, croutons and a dressing that was full of flavour brought the whole dish together wonderfully.

Main courses followed, breaded chicken escalope topped with a lemon & black pepper butter served with chips and a leafy salad, the chicken was fresh and tender, the melted butter oozed into the breadcrumbs complimenting the flavours.

Portobello mushroom topped with wilted spinach and grilled goats cheese served with chips and a fresh salad was my choice and this certainly didn’t disappoint the mushrooms were rich in flavour with the cheese and spinach perfectly melted to create an array of delicious flavours.

Desserts looked extremely tempting apple & cinnamon pie with vanilla ice cream, full of chunky pieces of apple with just the right amount of cinnamon. The New York cheesecake, raspberry coulis and vanilla ice cream was my choice truly scrumptious, Once we had finished our meal we continued to enjoy the rest of our evening making our way through to The Corn Exchange where we were entertained by The Philharmonia Orchestra, the whole pre-dinner meal followed by a show was great and highly recommended to anyone who is venturing out to a show at The Corn Exchange; the food is flavoursome and great value, staff warm and friendly and the atmosphere electric.

If you don’t want to attend a show you can still visit Number 13 for dinner with family, friends or a loved one. As well as popping in for coffee or lunch during the day ... the choice is yours.

To book a table or for more information call on 01234 718044 www.bedfordcornexchange/number13

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:50 Page 40

Summer Tomato and Courgette Gratin

“

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:50 Page 41

“

Rustle up a different version of dauphinoise ideal for summer Al Frescoe dining

To compliment the meal

Ingredients 500g new potatoes , unpeeled and thickly sliced 500g tomatoes (a mix of sizes and colours if possible), sliced or halved 500g courgettes , sliced on the diagonal 75g Gruyère (or vegetarian alternative), coarsely grated 25g Parmesan (or vegetarian alternative), finely grated 2 garlic cloves , thinly sliced 5 tbsp olive oil Oregano (or marjoram) and thyme sprigs

Taittinger Prestige Rosé NV Delicate salmon in colour, its aromas are fresh with wild strawberries and a hint of spice. On the palate this lively, fruity, fresh and elegant wine is balanced and smooth with good length and persistent flavours of crushed wild raspberry, cherry and blackcurrants. These fresh fruit flavours make this champagne the perfect summer aperitif.

Recipe

£47, Waitrose, Majestic, Wine Rack, John Lewis, Fortnum & Mason and selected independents

Heat oven to 190C/170C fan/gas 5. Cook the potatoes in boiling salted water for 6 minutes, then drain well.

Mix the garlic with the oil and some seasoning. Strip the herb leaves from their stalks, add to the oil. Drizzle a little of the oil over the base and sides of a 1.5-litre ovenproof dish. Layer half the potatoes, tomatoes and courgettes in the dish, drizzling with garlic and herb oil as you go. Mix the two cheeses and sprinkle half over the vegtables.

Grant Burge 5th Generation Rosé 2012 This is a round generous fruity style of Rose with aromas of raspberry, rose petals, hints of spice and red berry fruits. It has a delicious sweetness from the generous fruit which is balanced by acidity and an appealing round mouth feel.

Repeat the layers of vegtables and oil, drizzle over the remaining oil, then sprinkle with the rest of the cheese.

Bake for 40-45 mins until the potatoes and courgettes are tender and the top is golden and crisp.

£9.99, Whalley Wine Shop, Anne et Vin, Wimbledon Wine Cellars

Jean Luc Colombo Les Pins Couchés Rosé 2011 A light refreshing, dry rose with abundant yet subtle red fruit characters, dominated by powerful aromas reminiscent of the Mediterranean scrubland (garrigue). On the palate notes of black olives, herbs and fresh fruit evoke the terroir of the Mediterranean coast. £9.25, Ocado, Wholefoods, Partridges of Sloane Street, Wimbledon Wine Cellars 43

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:50 Page 42

Cheeky Chocolate Mousse Ingredients

Method

225 g good quality dark chocolate, broken up 70 g butter, cut into pieces 350 ml double cream 2 large eggs 1 tbsp. amaretto 2 tbsp. good honey

In a bowl over some gently simmering water, slowly melt the chocolate and butter together then remove from the heat.

In a separate bowl, semi-whip the cream, until soft peaks; not too stiff.

In a third bowl, whisk the eggs and honey until light and fluffy, then fold in the amaretto, melted chocolate mixture and cream - gently, so you don't lose too much air.

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

Pour into some small wineglasses or serving dishes and leave to chill for at least an hour before serving.

44

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:50 Page 43

&

& ) & ) $ ##'

!# & # $"

' " !"

& +$ % (!# "

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

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

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

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

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

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

!

$

" %

#

#

#

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:50 Page 44

Warm up for the Summer with these Brilliant

BBQ Wines Jean Luc Colombo Crozes Hermitage Les Gravieres 2010 Red fruit and blackcurrant characters balanced with rich spicy notes. This wine has good grip from the tannins and discreet oak characters that give it elegance and smoothness. This is a real food lovers wine.

Best BBQ food match: Lamb cutlets, steak and sausages ÂŁ13.99, Waitrose, Ocado

Zalze Chenin Blanc 2012 A concentrated, dry Chenin Blanc with a succulent palette of pear and tropical pineapple with vibrant guava characters. The acicidy cuts through all the richness leaving a finish that is clean, long and crisp.

Best BBQ food match: Pork burgers with apple sauce. ÂŁ7.99, Waitrose, Ocado

46

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:50 Page 45

Errazuriz Max Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon A silver medal winner in the 10th Annual Wines of Chile Awards 2013, this wine is full bodied and delicious. It bursts with ripe cassis fruit, elegant cedar wood spice, balanced by smooth tannins and a long finish Best BBQ food match: Steak and sausages £13.99, Majestic, Waitrose, Wine Rack, Budgens and independents

Villa Maria Private Bin Pinot Grigio 2011 A finely balanced, off-dry finish. Aromas of apple, melon, honeysuckle and spicy pear lead to a palate that is soft and creamy with refreshing acidity balanced by a delicate sweetness.

Best BBQ food match: BBQ prawns and salmon with tsatziki or a lime and coriander dip £9.99, Waitrose, Majestic, Co-op and independents

Cune Crianza 2010 This is a lovely young Crianza with bright red berry flavours dominating, backed up by spice and delicate vanilla notes coming from its ageing in American Oak. The Palate is round and balanced with a lovely fruit intensity and a richly elegant finish.

Best BBQ food match: Burgers or chicken, vegetable and halloumi kebabs £9.99, Majestic, Wine Rack, Booths and independents

Grant Burge Summers Chardonnay 2011 This wine has pleasing aromas of green melons, ripe stone fruit and subtle almond kernels. The palate is equally enticing with rich fleshy fruit – the green melon flavours continuing from the nose.

It is beautifully balanced and integrated with oak along with mineral and lime acidity.

Best BBQ food match: Grilled chicken with mango saka or monkfish with lemon dressing £15.99, Eagle Wines, Le Canon Wines, Partridges, North & South Wine, Field & Fawcett

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:51 Page 46

WIN! The prize we are offering up is:

1hr Family Surf Session This is a chance to create a fantastic family memory. Make mum let her hair down.. and even get it wet! Tell dad to leave the paper at home and drag ‘em down to Flow House to have an unforgettable time! Just like our standard 1 hour sessions you will receive a full safety briefing, instruction, wetsuit and board hire.

To enter send ‘Family surf’ to info@affinitymag.co.uk (voucher will be valid for 12 months from date of issue) Terms & Conditions: No cash alternative. Standard gift voucher T&C's apply

The NEFF Recipe Collection Cookbook courtesy of Peter Crisp of Rushden

WIN!

Bluebeards Revenge Deluxe Shaving Set

WIN!

A “deluxe” shaving gift set from ‘Blubeards Revenge’ range of mens grooming and skincare products. The range is paraben free and contains ingredients such as decelerine to specifically combat tough stubble and reduce hair growth, as well as tackle common shaving problems like razor rash, burn, ingrowing hairs, lumps and bumps.

Delicious Ways to discover your oven’s versatility .

This book is all about showing you how you can use your Neff oven to help you make fabulous tasting food, more easily, every time you cook. There are quick and easy dishes and more elaborate options too, plus expert guidance and time saving tips that will make a real difference to the way you use your oven. It’s like having the Neff Food Team in your kitchen helping out with great advice and handy shortcuts.

This “deluxe” contains a tub of our beard reducing shaving cream and post shave balm, luxury pre shave oil, ‘travel-sized’ shaving brush and a can of silver technology anti-perspirant deodorant.

Just tell us the name of this range of men’s grooming products and send your answer to info@affinitymag.co.uk

To enter send ‘Peter Crisp’ to info@affinitymag.co.uk 48

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:51 Page 47

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

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

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

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:51 Page 48

Professional Building Services ‐ Loft Conversions ‐ Extensions ‐ Refurbishments

Free Consultation All Work Guaranteed Fully Insured Qualified Project Management

‐ Design ‐ Planning ‐ Construction

SB Construction Management Ltd Bromham - Bedford T: 01234 826 339 M: 07825 129 017 E: sales@sbconstructionmanagement.co.uk w: www.sbconstructionmanagement.co.uk

Simply Tree Services We are fully insured and all work undertaken is carried out with respect for you and your property.

Pruning Crown Lifting Crown Reduction Tree Removal Crown Thinning Sectional Dismantling Stump Grinding Hedge Work Garden Clearance

Please call for a Free quote

100% Recycle

Tel: 01234 330796 Mob: 07866 554673 info@simplytreeservices.co.uk www.simplytreeservices.co.uk

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:51 Page 49

ARE YOU THINKING OF SELLING YOUR HOME? ARE YOU THINKING OF LETTING YOUR HOME? If you would like to buy, sell, rent, or need a mortgage, contact us today.

With our stand out branding, leading referral scheme, and tireless approach you will be in good hands.

We are focused on providing clients with a friendly, responsive, and committed service from start to finish.

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

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

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:51 Page 50

Add a little

vintage

to your look

V

intage hair styling has become very popular over the last few years with looks from the 1940s and 1950s regaining their popularity. Victory rolls, pin curl sets and classic Hollywood style waves, which actresses like Rita Hayworth and Veronica Lake made so popular back in the day, are once again in fashion.

Bedford has its own vintage hair parlour in the form of Sarah’s Doo-Wop Dos, where Sarah styles customers in her retro themed parlour in the town centre. As well as regular styling and event work, Sarah also runs workshops helping people to learn the art of vintage hair so they can recreate the styles at home on themselves.

Sarah is now joining forces with Tudor Rose Patchwork in Oakley to run a new workshop, where she will not only show you how to style your hair in a vintage way, but also how to sew a headscarf to wear it with.

Perfect for those who have always wanted to add a little bit of vintage into their look, this headscarf updo style works as a great casual look, worn with a t-shirt, rolled up jeans and sneakers, or as a dressy evening style for a special occasion. With workshop dates in July and August, this is the ideal way to get prepared for Twinwood Festival, a huge vintage and dance festival that takes place over August bank holiday just down the road in Clapham.

Workshops will run July 25th and August 15th from 79pm. No hair experience is needed but basic sewing skills are required. Hair equipment will be provided but participants will need to bring their own sewing machine.

A limited number are available for those without. Fabric for the headscarf is not included but can be purchased at Tudor Rose Patchwork or brought with you.

Add a little vintage to your look!

Learn to create We are here with a more casual and fun approach to networking

genuine 1940s hairstyles and make a 1940s headband, too!

Join us on the first Thursday of each month 12.30pm – 2.00pm (4th July) for drinks and a delicious buffet lunch (July’s venue is Number 13, St. Pauls Square, Bedford) Affinity’s Social Networking’s aim is to bring people and businesses together in a relaxed sociable atmosphere

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

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

Sarah from Sarah's Doo-Wop Dos will show you how.

Thursdays, July 25 or August 15 7p.m. to 9 p.m.

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

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

Station Road, Oakley MK43 7RB

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:51 Page 51

Perfect Picnic

Debenhams

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:51 Page 52

Botanist Filled 4 Person Backpack £47 John Lewis

Jasper Conran Suitcase Hamper £95 Debenhams

Heart Red Polka 2 Person Hamper £35 BHS

Large Red Cooler Bag £40 Debenhams

Country Stripe 4 Person Picnic Back Pack £49.50 hintonshome.com

Two Person Green Canvas Hamper £40 cotswoldtrading.com

Stripe Picnic Bag £30 Next

Traditional Wicker Picnic Basket £35 Love from Rosie Vintage 2 Person Hamper £25 BHS

54

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:52 Page 53

Picnic Basket £24.95 Love from Rosie

Heatons Luxury Puritan Hamper, 4 Person £145 John Lewis

Matthew Williamson Woven Picnic Hamper £26 Debenhams

Pioneer Coolbag Carrier £25 John Lewis

Vintage Coolbag Basket £32 BHS

Cherry 4 Person Hamper £45 BHS

Lisbeth Dahl Wicker Picnic Hamper for Two £54.99 mollieandfred.co.uk

55

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:52 Page 54

Affinity gardening

Flower of the Month Coreopsis are Native American prairie and woodland plants. There ruggedness and profuse blooms have made them popular with plant breeders with over 100 different species available, although not all are perennial plants. Low maintenance, drought tolerant and long blooming, Coreopsis are work horses in a sunny flower border. Their common name, "tickseed", is supposedly for the seeds resemblance to ticks.

June Tips... ⧫ Hoe borders regularly to keep down weeds ⧫ Be water-wise, especially in droughtaffected areas ⧫ Pinch out sideshoots on tomatoes ⧫ Harvest lettuce, radish, other salads and early potatoes ⧫ Position summer hanging baskets and containers outside ⧫ Cut lawns at least once a week ⧫ Plant out summer bedding ⧫ Stake tall or floppy plants ⧫ Prune many spring-flowering shrubs ⧫ Shade greenhouses to keep them cool and prevent scorch

Plant size will vary with species, age and growing conditions, but most Coreopsis grow somewhere between 10 - 18 inches tall with a spread of about 12 - 24 inches. They tend to grow in clumps, but many varieties will self-seed throughout your garden.

Coreopsis will bloom best in full sun, but it can also be successfully grown in partial shade. The plants may get a bit lankier in partial shade, but they will adapt. In areas with intense dry, heat, Coreopsis may even prefer some afternoon shade.

Affinity Loves.......

The Pop up Wine Glass is perfect for impromptu ‘dos’, festivals, camping and even walking to the shop if you enjoy your vino that much.

With a simple flick of the wrist the glass extends to an impressive 17cm tall, and holds 150ml of that fruity juice. The lid even acts as a little canapé tray for your nibbles and once you’re finished, the lid holds any dregs tightly inside, leaving your bags dry as bone.

Brilliant for picnics and even a spot of glamping! £5.95 www.red5.co.uk

56

Pop Up Wine Glass

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:52 Page 55

G.Butler Loft conversions 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

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

Vehicle Servicing - Cars, Motorbikes and Commercial Vehicles ∙ Established 18 years ∙ Genuine Vehicle Service Parts Used (Maintaining Warranty) ∙ Courtesy Cars Available ∙ Car Collection & Delivery

Mon - Fri 8am-5.30pm Sat 8am-1pm

∙ MOT Repairs Carried Out ∙ Bedford Wheels Carries out Full and Interim Servicing

by Professional Technicians ∙ Specialists in High Performance Car Tyres

Bedford Wheels for Vehicle Servicing & Tyres, Technology you can Lean on!

Use our Drive-While-U-Wait Motor-cycle Tyre Fitting Service!

We are the main stockist for all leading manufacturers of motor-cycle tyres Bedford Wheels 56 College Street Kempston Bedford MK42 8LU T: 01234 216 662 F: 01234 400 047 info@bedford-wheels.co.uk www.bedford-wheels.co.uk

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:52 Page 56

Big on

BBQ’s Sainsburys Home

Gas 4 Burner And Side Burner £250 Dobbies

Family Rectangular BBQ Dobbies

Banquet 2 Burner Gas Barbecue with Side Burner £79.95 primrose.co.uk

Raymond Blanc 5 Burner Gas BBQ £1,199 John Lewis

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:52 Page 57

Weber Summit S670 Grill Centre with Social Area £5,999 John Lewis

Picolino' Lme BBQ £65 Debenhams

Pedestal Charcoal BBQ £40 Tesco Direct Weber Spirit Classic Gas BBQ £549 John Lewis

Portable Bucker BBQ £8 Tesco Direct Portable Charcoal Kettle Barbecuen£29 John Lewis

Masonry Charcoal Barbecue £249.99 Taranto

Bodum Picnic BBQ £70 House of Fraser

Weber Smokey Joe BBQ Next

Banquet Square Kettle Charcoal BBQ £24.95 Primrose

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:52 Page 58

MAN of the Month

Age: Arron Bird Occupation: Company director at Anglia Interiors Resides: St. Neots

Describe yourself in three words?

Generous, charming and funny :-)

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

Will I Am, Arnold Schwarzenegger and Kevin Schwantz

What makes you stand out in a crowd?

I always seem to make people laugh...probably more at me than with me.

What makes you happy?

Being with my family and friends but diner out at a weekend with my wife and daughters is always special, Oh and getting on the podium at a race meeting

Your top three movies?

Love Honour & Obey, Star Wars (the original) and any James Bond film.

Saturday night you can be found where?

Pizza Express

What do you do to relax?

Race motorbikes!!!

Your most extravagant purchase and why?

Wife's new car......I`ve always had the one I wanted, this time she had the choice and gets to drive it every day.

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

James Bond Describe your ideal woman?

My wife Best holiday destination and why?

Probably a ski trip with the family j- ust so scenic and beautiful, oh and the toffee Vodka is quite nice that goes with it!

You can’t leave the house without?

My phone.

Where do you see yourself in ten years?

Having a successful business with happy clients and staff.

60

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:52 Page 59

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:52 Page 60

Liquorice Allsorts £3 Marks & Spencer

Mens Jewellery by Aagaard Bracelets from £46.00 Beads all £19.50 Millman Bedford

Jabra REVO Wireless or Corded £199.99 oe £159.99 Amazon

No 1 Dad Ted Baker Boxed Brown Brogue Leather Pen - £24.99 tch.net

Taylor of Old Bond Street Shaving Gift Set £28.50 timgarner.co.uk Personalised Slate Cheese Board - £25.00 tch.net

Bluebeards Revenge ‘Deluxe’ Gift Set £34.99 Amazon UK

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:52 Page 61

Car Cufflinks Jaeger

Bar Skittles £44.95 giftsforthepresent.com

Extra Time Football Shower Gel £12.95 giftsforthepresent.com

Blue Microphones Mikey Digital £99.99 pcworld ,currys

d an an 7.95 v r £ pe in om am x T t.c c C y Bo esen i s s e r Cla Mon thep r r Ca iftsfo g

Farmers Carbolic Handwash £12.95 giftsforthepresent.com

Cottage Delight Beer and Steak Set £15 John Lewis

Black cufflinks £39.95 Hugo Boss Midsummer Place Milton Keynes

Montezuma Father's Day Chocolate Truffle Box £12 John Lewis

Vivienne Westwood Polo Shirt £99.95 Thackerrys Milton Keynes

Pong I-Phone 5 Case £55.99 pongresearch.co.uk

63

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:52 Page 62

Fry’s

footie corner

T

he end of season fixtures were incredible with the delight and despair encapsulating every division in the country. You go through every emotion. We went through that turmoil here at Peterborough United. We were at Crystal Palace on the final day and we only got relegated in the last minute on the last day by a goal that should never have stood because it wasn’t a free kick in the first place.

We were relegated with 54 points, a record number of points for a side to drop out of the npower Championship. We were burned badly, but we have to bounce back and try and win the double next season.

We were not the only team that suffered heartbreak. In League One, on the final day of the season, Brentford won a penalty in injury time against promotion rivals Doncaster Rovers at Griffin Park. If they had scored it would have won the Bees the league title. However, the penalty struck the bar, Doncaster cleared the ball up to the half way line and Billy Paynter ran towards goal, squared it to James Coppinger who rolled the ball into an empty net. Doncaster won the league and Brentford went into the play-offs. Incredible scenes.

Unbelievably, a similar occurrence happened in the Championship play-off semi-final second leg at Vicarage Road between Watford and Leicester City. The scores were level on aggregate when Leicester won a penalty kick in the final minute. On this occasion, the penalty from Anthony Knockeart was saved by Almunia and the goalkeeper also stopped the rebound.

The ball was once again cleared and Watford counterattacked at pace. A cross from one winger to the other was headed back across goal and Troy Deeney smacked home a volley from 10-yards to send the Hornets into the play-off final at Wembley Stadium.

www.theposh.com

What drama, what excitement. From one extreme to another. That is the beauty of the final day of the season, the play-offs and the unpredictable nature of football.

Barry Fry

64

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:52 Page 63

Affordable, 3G Tablet for Gadget Loving Dads

D

processor will really bring them to life, with no lag or frustration waiting for things to load

ad’s are notoriously difficult to buy for when Father’s Day comes around. Chocolates or flowers just won’t do the trick like they do for Mum. So, why not turn to the latest in gadgetry to wow Dad instead. The affordable yet high spec new disgo 8400G tablet, featuring 3G, could be just the gift to keep Dad entertained for hours. It’s small enough to easily carry round, and best of all, it won’t break the bank like many other tablets at just £149.99.

· 7.9” high res display – Dad can watch movies, videos and pictures that will all look great at home or when out and about

· 3G Enabled – unlike other tablets at this price, the 8400G features 3G. Perfect for when Dad wants to check his emails, surf the web or check the latest footie scores when he’s out and about

· Front and rear facing camera – makes taking pictures and Skype with family easy

· 4GB of onboard flash storage – (expandable to 68GB) means his favourite music, films and photos can be stored on the device

· Stereo speakers – headphone output and microphone · Latest Android Jelly Bean software – the latest tech for a fab and fast operating system

· Google Play Store – Dad can download his favourite apps and enjoy hours of entertainment

· The latest dual core processor – if Dad loves his games on the go, this Qualcomm Snapdragon S4

The disgo 8400G is £149.99 from Currys/PC World.

65

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:52 Page 64

ROLLS-ROYCE MOTOR CARS PROVIDES GHOST EXTENDED WHEELBASE TO FAB1 MILLION PROJECT IN SUPPORT OF BREAST CANCER CARE Headed by Chris Evans, the FAB1 Million project is set to raise £1 million for Breast Cancer Care through making this bespoke Ghost available to hire over the next twelve months. This extraordinary car will make appearances at exclusive events as well as being available for hire for any special day, with all proceeds directly benefiting Breast Cancer Care.

I

n support of this exciting project and very worthy cause, the Rolls-Royce Bespoke team has prepared a very special motor car, combining numerous exclusive bespoke elements, from pink accented umbrellas, to hand-embroidered headrests featuring the Breast Cancer Care pink ribbon motif. Further enhancements include unique ‘FAB1’ treadplates and a Blushing Pink and Crème Light interior leather scheme. An uplit Spirit of Ecstasy adorns the silver satin bonnet.

In addition to providing a superior ride experience and ample legroom, the passenger experience of this exceptional Ghost Extended Wheelbase is enhanced with hand veneered picnic tables, 9.2 inch LCD screens and a champagne coolbox. Passengers will be able to relax with a chilled glass of champagne, indulge in a concerto, courtesy of a 10-channel amplifier and 16 speakers delivering 600 Watts of surround sound, or simply sink into sumptuous leather seats and lambswool footmats, relaxing into luxurious silence as they journey to their destination.

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:52 Page 65

“When I received the call from Chris Evans to support FAB1 Million, we immediately sprang into action,” said Jolyon Nash, Sales and Marketing Director. “It’s taken countless hours to create such a special car but every minute spent is absolutely worth it for such a valuable cause. We wish the project every success.”

FAB1 was originally the iconic pink Rolls-Royce seen in the 1960s British science-fiction television series Thunderbirds, owned by London agent Lady Penelope and driven by her butler, Parker.

The project launched on Thursday 18th April with a star-studded point to point drive in FAB1 from Land’s End to John O’Groats. FAB1 is subsequently available for hire for your special day, with all funds raised going straight to Breast Cancer Care.

For more information please visit

www.FAB1Million.co.uk

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:52 Page 66

...

68

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:52 Page 67

..back on the prowl!

O

ne of the longestrunning shows in West End and Broadway history, CATS began a new tour earlier this year and will be arriving at Milton Keynes Theatre on 25th June.

Based on T.S Eliot’s ‘Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats’, Andrew Lloyd Webber’s record- breaking adaptation CATS is directed by Trevor Nunn, with choreography by Gillian Lynne and set and costume design by John Napier. Re-creating the direction and choreography for the tour is Chrissie Cartwright. Including one of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s most memorable musical scores, spectacular set design, extraordinary costumes and stunning choreography, CATS is a uniquely magical musical.

On just one special night of the year, all Jellicle cats meet at the Jellicle Ball where Old Deuteronomy, their wise and benevolent leader, makes the Jellicle choice and announces which of them will go up to the heaviside layer and be reborn into a whole new Jellicle life.

Music, dance and verse fuse together in an enchanting blend of fantasy, drama and romance.

CATS opened at the New London Theatre on 11 May 1981 and played almost 9,000 performances. It closed on 11 May 2002 having celebrated 21 recordbreaking years and winning an Olivier Award for Best Musical (1981). On Broadway it was the winner of 7 Tony Awards (including Best Musical and Best Director) and ran for an amazing 18 years making it second only to “THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA” as Broadway’s longest running musical.

It continues to be a worldwide musical phenomenon; to date CATS remains one of the world’s longest running musicals and has been seen by over 50 million people. It has enchanted audiences in over 300 cities in 26 countries around the world and has been performed in at least 10 different languages. CATS was last seen in the UK in 2008 where it enjoyed a hugely successful tour playing to sell-out audiences across the country.

Back by popular demand, the memory of CATS returns with the 2013 tour.

So make sure you get your PAWS on tickets for this musical spectacular.

Milton Keynes Theatre Tues 25th June – Sat 6th July 0844 871 7652 or visit www.atgtickets.com/miltonkeynes

69

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:53 Page 68

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

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

Even Further Than Mars!

We all know that famous book about where women and men are from, well I believe that men are from a planet way further than Mars!

best frock when he returns home after a tough day at the office. Instead the handover of a child, usually the grumpiest as I try and wipe baby sick from my hair and point him in the direction of the left over Fish Fingers!

Now I do believe I can call myself a modern day feminist and strive for equality, however circumstances will dictate that ‘traditional’ roles will have to be assumed in some households – including our own. The force of nature means that as a woman I will be the one to carry and give birth to our children – The Husband hasn’t turned into Arnie Schwarzenegger (in any way!!) yet! Therefore I will have to take time out of my career to do so; I am organised but not enough to be one to these women who return to work after a week of giving birth – full respect to them though! And despite what many MPs say, the glass ceiling is still firmly in place within the workforce, so any time taken out will have an impact on any mother’s climb up the ladder. So with this in mind and the fact we have four children, means I am the main ‘home-maker’.

Of course if these obstacles weren’t in the way I am pretty sure that I would choose to be the one at home especially in the early years. So with four children to feed, entertain, get to school, bathe etc., as well as working a couple of days a week and doing the majority of the housework (no cleaners in this house in these austere times) it would be fair to say I have a fairly packed schedule. The Husband does have household chores allocated to him in the time he is at home with us, so as to ensure a fairer division of labour– although I take on the ‘traditional’ role it doesn’t mean transporting myself to the 1950’s!

There are no pipes and slippers waiting for him with freshly bathed and quiet children and me wearing my

So far so good eh?! But then there is the social life to organise – well when I say social life I mean the rare times we do go out without the children, especially as we don’t have the grandparent network around, so you can imagine getting four children looked after without paying the equivalent of a second mortgage to a babysitter, can be rather tricky! Also I am surprised I have enough energy left over to go out after ferrying the children around their various social activities, however sometimes I dig deep into the energy reserve and prepare for a night out with the Husband!

However, despite our synced online diaries which alert him to the momentous occasion that we have a whole 24 hours child free, coupled with the fact it’s the only thing I talk about in the week leading up to it, what does The Husband do? .....................Play cricket! It would seem that email alerts don’t actually alert him and maybe my voice has the effect on him that a high pitched squeal has on cats?

And to top it all off he doesn’t actually get home until 9.20pm and as any mother knows, by then and especially after a glass or two of wine, I was fast asleep on the sofa!

Yummy Mummy 70

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:53 Page 69

Bluezoo £13 Debenhams

Bluezoo £17 Debenhams

Tankini Swimsuit £12, Striped Swimshort £10 M&Co

s e i b a b Water

Daisy tankini £12 Next

Indigo Swimsuit £10 Marks&Spencer Bluezoo £12 Debenhams

Zap Sunsafe Suit £11 Next

Boys Swim Shorts Matalan

George Asda

Mothercare

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:53 Page 70

Make Love not War T

o the southeast of Palma—only 20 minutes by car but a world away—is the Cap Rocat hotel, a 19th-century former military fortress, located in the most secluded area of the bay of Palma de Mallorca. Stunningly blended into the landscape, this magnificent fortress has been totally refurbished without altering its unique architecture and its natural environment.

Made into an enchanting 24-suite (adults only) refuge by its owner, Majorcan architect Antonio Obrador.

Entered through the original drawbridge, the secluded stone-clad hotel features a glorious saltwater pool atop the old walls, a sybaritic spa, and a private beach; the staff can arrange for rental of a classic sports car, if you fancy living like a movie star. The understated rooms, meanwhile, incorporate canopy beds and locally crafted rugs. At the resort’s waterside Sea Club, guests dine alfresco on wood-grilled seafood dishes, with Palma’s lights in the distance. For special private moments the hotel sets up private tables and tents with views of the bay.

72

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:53 Page 71

The Cap Rocat suites are located in former shooting pads, and are elegantly decorated with spacious bathrooms and views of the Bay of Palma. Each has a private terrace, and a patio complete with daybed and stunning sea views.

For those wanting room service, a generous breakfast can be taken on the private terrace, arriving via picnic hamper and set up at your table

The former fortress halls have become relaxing areas, where different scenarios have been recreated, together with private lounges for exclusive use of guests. In summer, the former patios are transformed into pleasant lounges where one can enjoy the warm summer nights.

Located above the Fortress Hall, the panoramic terrace is an excellent area for the organization of a cocktail during the warm summer evenings and with stunning panoramic views of the bay of Palma.

There is plenty to do on the island from The Sea Club – completely private, created in a secluded cove, with a sandy area with sunbeds, and its own informal restaurant. Swimming areas have been set up around the former pier and dock, all part of a natural reserve. The Fortress Swimming Pool – a spectacular inifinty pool, created on one of the walls of the old fortress. The water meets the sea and the sky, with heart lifting views over the Bay of Palma, there are even complimentary bicycles – for exploring.

A pure haven for wellbeing with its super spa and salt water infinity pool, gastronomic delights, and breathtaking suites. Great food and relaxation in the seclusion of its own bay what more could you ask for?!

www.caprocat.com

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:53 Page 72

Ask Sue...

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

I

am unsure if this is the sort of question you can answer but I will give it a go. On two occasions now I have come downstairs in the morning to a pair of shoes (the first time my sons, the second time my daughters) placed at the front door facing as if they are about to go out the door - 100% they were not there before I went to bed. It has slightly freaked me out, it is not my son or daughter as they have been fast asleep in bed - can you shed any light on it?

Thank you Diane. F

to build up a business, but over the last few months the business has started to lose money. My wife really loves what she does but is realistic that we cannot carry on if we continue to make a loss; I have started up another business in corporate photography (something I used to do before I went into partnership with her) to try to get some money coming in and I guess what I want to know is a) Will my wife's business pick up? and b) will my new business venture prove worthwhile?

Thanks Danny

HI Diane.

There seems to be a message here from someone in Spirit, in the way that the children’s shoes were facing and ready to go out of the door.

This is shown as someone who died of an upper body disease, which struck fairly quickly, and was taken to the other side before they had time to get used to the idea that they would be leaving, especially as this seems just after a taste of respite of feeling that they would be able to beat the illness.

Their message is not to lose yourself in your children , as they will be making their own lives later and you will, while still being very loved by them, have little connection with your old self, unless you keep outside interests, instead of just home, family and work, once they have gone out of that particular door.

If you want to clear the energies or the Spirit from your house, ask the spirit to return to the light, burn a sage stick or incense while reciting a prayer from your own beliefs. A lit candle in the window will help, during this process, when you have finished, ring a bell or clang a knife on a glass to create ripples of energy and noise which can help clear the house, and then snuff out the candle.

Hi Danny, The business that your wife has started and that you have become a part of has survived well the first few years of depression, and has only recently taken a down turn. This shows that it is a sound basis for a business, but you have to weigh up the lack of personal time and its interference in life before you can judge it wholly as being worthwhile.

Having said that; yes it is shown as picking up, but she and you are both tired of the constant pressure, and have been just keeping your heads above water, so new innovational thoughts are a little difficult to find until the stress levels drop, and it is new innovations which stir new custom.

The business you have yourself gone back into has taken a little bit of a downturn since the new iphones and mobiles take clear picture, but there is always a market for high class photography. With your past experience you should do well, but again you need a niche market, to get you a sustainable income.

If you have the mettle to push yourself, you will succeed.

The card pulled for you is the Moon - which urges you to think two ways on both issues, both practically, and on a more over the top level, when it comes to this business.

M

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

y wife set up a business a few years ago and I work alongside her; we both work long hours for little return and understand it takes a few years 74

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:53 Page 73

A quiet night in.......

N

ora Eldridge, a 37-year-old elementary school teacher in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is on the verge of disappearing. Having abandoned her desire to be an artist, she has become the "woman upstairs," a reliable friend and tidy neighbour always on the fringe of others' achievements. Then into her classroom walks a new pupil, Reza Shahid, a child who enchants as if from a fairy tale. He and his parents--dashing Skandar, a halfMuslim Professor of Ethical History born in Beirut, and Sirena, an effortlessly glamorous Italian artist--have come to America for Skandar to teach at Harvard.

But one afternoon, Reza is attacked by schoolyard bullies who punch, push and call him a "terrorist," and Nora is quickly drawn deep into the complex world of the Shahid family. Soon she finds herself falling in love with them, separately and together. Nora's happiness explodes her boundaries--until Sirena's own ambition leads to a shattering betrayal.

Written with intimacy and piercing emotion, this urgently dispatched story of obsession and artistic fulfillment explores the thrill - and the devastating cost - of giving in to one's passions. The Woman Upstairs is a masterly story of America today, of being a woman and of the exhilarations of love

DVD release

Latest cinema release Based on a True Story – One Shot At a New Life

Release Date 17th June

W

ill Smith and Jaden Smith star as a father and son team stranded on an Earth that has changed beyond recognition. In the distant future, teenager Kitai Raige (Jaden Smith) and his father Cypher (Will Smith) are undertaking a deep-space mission. But the journey goes disastrously wrong and they crash-land on a hostile, deadly planet. It's a place where the temperature fluctuates at will, gigantic volcanoes spew out boiling magma and massive earthquakes shake the ground. Kitai is amazed to learn that the planet is in fact Earth abandoned by people 1000 years earlier when cataclysmic seismic activity endangered all humanity.

Father and son must now fight to survive in the most dangerous place in the universe. Jaden Smith stars alongside superstar dad, Will Smith, in this exciting yet thoughtful futuristic adventure, one that asks - what would happen if Earth turned against us?

A

Nebraska teen gets more than she bargained for when she sets out for the bright lights of Las Vegas.

Small town teenager Luli (Chloe Grace Moretz ) escapes to Las Vegas, leaving behind her alcoholic and abusive parents. Armed with her smarts, a pistol and pocket money, she hitchhikes her way west. Along the way, Luli crosses paths with Eddie (Eddie Redmayne), an unstable rebel with questionable motives and Glenda (Blake Lively), a cocaine-snorting drifter on the run. Adapted from the critically acclaimed novel by Andrea Portes, this powerful story pulls you into a provocative world of drugs, seduction and murder.

Release Date: 7th June 75

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:53 Page 74

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

What’s On June 2013 Sat 1st June The Shaolin Warriors Bedford Corn Exchange The internationally acclaimed ‘Shaolin Warriors’ are returning to the UK with a brand new show, “Return of the Master” before embarking on a world tour. This breathtaking theatrical Kung Fu Show continues the story of the warrior, and vividly depicts the rarely-seen Kung Fu masters’ feats of agility, strength and skill, using Buddhist Meditation and their rigorous martial arts training. The show is an extravaganza, with gorgeous scenery, atmospheric music, beautiful lights, and hundreds of costumes. www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk/events

Sat 8th June Panacea Museum Open Day 10.30am – 4.30pm Come along to our Open Day and find out about the history and background of the Panacea Society, a unique religious society that once existed in Bedford. During the day you will have access to the various buildings that include: The Chapel with its interesting stained glass window and clock tower; the Founders House with all its original Edwardian period settings, and most importantly, the large multi-room exhibition at Castleside. You will also have the opportunity to walk around and enjoy the tranquility of the Panacea gardens, and enjoy tea and cakes on the lawn. Entrance is FREE, however pre-booking is required as space in some of the buildings is limited.

The Panacea Museum, 9 Newnham Road, Bedford.

01234 353178, email museum@panacea-society Sat 8th June Wildlife Walk 8am – 11am The Forest Centre, Marston Vale Join us for a walk to view the flora and fauna of the Millennium Country Park. These walks are for anyone, whatever their expertise. Wear suitable clothes and shoes. Some unmade paths and slopes. £3/person, £1 reduction for concessions Book in advance but pay the leader - 01234 767037 www.marstonvale.org

W

O

&F

U

CH UR FE

TE

CH

CASTL A S T L E A SHBY S H BY

ND OG S H

Sunday Sunda undaay 2nd JJune une Gates open at 1122 noon at the Castle’s Gardens Castle’s Italian Ga ardens

Sat 8th June Take That THE TRIBUTE 7.30pm – 1.00am Wyboston Lakes Hotel Live entertainment and disco, Three course plated meal £39.50 per person (includes event ticket and a ½ bottle of wine) Inclusive overnight package available, event ticket, meal, a ½ bottle of wine, double ensuite room and breakfast at £74.50 per person (based on two sharing) 0333 7007 667(option 4) quoting POS www.wybostonlakes.co.uk/social-events

Fun for all the Family, Classes for all Dogs, Hog Roast * Stalls * Teas * Attractions * Grand Raffle Demonstrations by Traditional Association of

Shotokan Karate Daventry Music Centre Brass Band Admission £2.50,, C Concessions oncessions £ £1.50, 1.50,, Children Ch Childr hildren under 12 12 free freee Admissionn fee fee includes entrance entran to Castle Ashby’s Ashby’s Famous Gardens Gardens (normally (normally £5)

FREE P PARKING ARKING

Sat 8th June Odell Village Fete and Family Dog Show – 2pm.

Scout Field , Horsefair Lane, Odell, MK43 7AA. There will be many attractions including Bedford Brass Band, Bouncy Castle, Gift and Bottle Stall, Tombola, Vintage/White Elephant, Pimms, Children’s Sports, ice creams and refreshments. BEST DECORATED CUP CAKE competition.

Three classes, 5-10 years; 11-17 years; 18 years and over.

Please bring 3 cup cakes on a plate plus a small card with your name, age/over 18 and phone no. If you do not wish your cup cake to be sold afterwards, please mark your card with a red star.

Adults £1.50, Children Free. Dog Show - £1.50 per dog per class.

Car parking opposite The Bell public house.

Disabled parking next to the Scout Field.

Information call Jane on 01933 410959 or email jane@eshelby.co.uk.

Details of Dog Show Classes information go to www.odellbeds.net

Sat 8th – Sun 9th The Cambridge Town & Country Show - 10.00am - 6pm Parker’s Piece, Cambridge CB1 1JF With something for everyone, from Horkesley Park’s Heavy Horse Demonstration Team, full size and scale Steam Engines, The Goat Show – featuring milking and have a go bottle feeding of lambs and kids, Birds of Prey and Owl displays, Children’s Entertainment, Donkey Rides, Swords of Chivalry battle reenactments and medieval village and Fighting Knights, have a go with the Totally Terriers racing team or try your hand at grooming with the Totally Ponies team, as well as a childrens’ farm and ferret racing right in the heart of the City. On Sunday this year we also have the Companion Dog Show – so bring along a canine friend and have a go! (And all proceeds from entries will go to Marie Curie Cancer Care).

There will also be a glorious display of full and scale model steam engines as well as farm machinery.

76

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:53 Page 75

Tues 11th – Thurs 13th June The Gruffalos Child Milton Keynes Theatre Following hot on the heels of The Gruffalo’s sell out tour and his monstrous West End success comes The Gruffalo's Child - with attitude! Just how brave is she?

One wild and windy night the Gruffalo’s child ignores her father’s warning and tiptoes out into the snow. After all, the Big Bad Mouse doesn’t really exist... does he?

All adults must be accompanied by a responsible child. www.atgtickets.com/miltonkeynes

Fri 14th June Grease Tribute Night Wyboston Lakes Hotel Live entertainment and disco, Three course plated meal £39.50 per person (includes event ticket and a ½ bottle of wine) Inclusive overnight packageavailable, event ticket, meal, a ½ bottle of wine, double ensuite room and breakfast at £74.50 per person (based on two sharing) 0333 7007 667(option 4) quoting POS www.wybostonlakes.co.uk/social-events Sat 15th June Annual Rose Queen Fete 2pm – 4.30pm John Donne Lower School and St Edmunds and St James Church will be celebrating the annual Rose Queen Fete. The procession will start from Park Lane in Blunham at 2pm, followed by the crowning of the 2013 Rose Queen, a dancing display by the school children, and the opening of the fete. There will be many traditional stalls and attractions, such as the Pimms tent, cream teas, cakes, garden produce, together with modern attractions of a BBQ, bouncy castle, dig for pirate treasure and lob a loo roll! For the gardeners amongst you – we will be holding a “Best Garden Rose” competition again this year, hopefully as we are later in the year there will be plenty of roses. There will also be a “Dress the Vegetable” competition for the children, so start thinking of ideas!

John Donne Lower School on 01767 640346 Sat 15th – Sun 16th June The Northamptonshire Food Show Holdenby, Holdenby House, NN6 8DJ A celebration of all that is good to eat and drink from across the region and far beyond: from condiments, artisan cheeses, home cured and fresh meat, dairy products, confectionary, bakery, wine, beer and other drinks, together with cookware and other related products – the Northamptonshire Food Show at Holdenby is attracting a wide range of products and demonstrators.

Sophie Grigson is booked to offer Cookery Demonstrations throughout the weekend.

Wine and beer tasting sessions will all add to a really good weekend for everyone, from the amateur enthusiast through to the most sophisticated gastronome. Families can also enjoy birds of prey flying displays from Icarus Falconry, and the show is also supporting and is supported by British Food Fortnight Admission: £7.50, Concessions £6.50, Children age 5-16 years £3, family ticket: £18 (2 adults and 2 children) www.oakleighfairs.co.uk/holdenby Sun 16th June Sharnbrook Mill Theatre

Car Boot Sale Sellers: from 8.00 am; car £7, car + trailer/van £10; NO traders.

Buyers: from 10.00 am; Parking: £2/car, light refreshments, licensed bar. Booking advisable: Ian/Sandy: 01933 664 718 or 07525 419815 ianandsandy@btinternet,com Sun 16th June Conservation Task 10am The Forest Centre, Marston Vale Join our Volunteers to do something for the environment, get some exercise and have fun. We carry out a variety of practical projects throughout the Vale. Wear old clothes and bring lunch if you want to stay all day. We provide tea and biscuits. Meet at the Forest Centre - finishes about 4.15pm. This month’s task is to check and clean our tools, followed by a barbecue.

Places are limited so please let us know if you wish to attend.

For further details contact stephen.gascoyne@marstonvale.org or 01234 762614. www.marstonvale.org Tues 18th – Sat 22nd June Sleeping Beauty on Ice Milton Keynes Theatre Set to the magnificent music of Tchaikovsky, Sleeping Beauty on Ice tells the classic fairytale love story through sublime world class skating, breathtaking high speed lifts and throws, awe inspiring aerial gymnastics, stilt skating and fire effects - all in the intimacy of the theatre stage.

Sleeping Beauty on Ice is a spectacular theatrical experience which will thrill and enchant audiences of all ages. www.atgtickets.com/miltonkeynes Weds 19th June Sandy & District Horticultural Association 7.30pm Quince Court, Sandy a talk will be given entitled 'Producing Flowers & Vegetables for The Show Bench' by R.H.S. speaker Dave Empson. £2.50 members £3.50 visitors Weds 19th – Thurs 20th June Ben and Hollys Little Kingdom Bedford Corn Exchange Packed full of games, songs and laughter, this is an enchanting and magical visit to the Little Kingdom, live on stage for the very first time. The Little Kingdom – where everyone is very, very small – is home to Princess Holly and her best friend Ben Elf. Holly is a young fairy princess who is still learning how to do magic properly and sometimes her spells don’t work out quite right. Ben is an Elf. Elves don’t do magic but they are very good at making things. Ben doesn’t have wings like Holly but he flies on the back of Gaston the Ladybird.

This beautiful story of elves, princesses and childhood innocence will delight all the family. www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk/events Fri 21st June James Bond Themed Charity Gala Dinner 7.30pm – 2.00am In aid of NSPCC at The Park Inn, Bedford Enjoy a James Bond themed evening including drinks on arrival, three course meal, casino tables, and a live band.

Tickets £45 each, or tables of ten £405 goldenpoppy@live.co.uk Sat 22nd June Barn Dance and Hog Roast - 8pm Bunyan Farm, High Street, Stagsden Live music from 3Sticks the widely acclaimed Milton Keynes Fiddle Band, Dancing with caller.

Tickets £12.50 includes food – Vegetarian option available Bring your own drinks, plastic glasses will be provided.

Book your tickets now on : 01234 823103

Affinity June 2 2013 _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:54 Page 76

Be part of Affinity the top FREE LuxuryLifestyle 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

& ! "

What our advertisers say !'

"

!

#

"

&

$

!&

! !

# "

%! & !! " &

$! # #

&" # &

#

"

!

! " %

!% !

! !

"!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Gary Butler G.Butler, Loft and Garage Conversion Specialists “We can’t praise Jane, David and the Affinity team highly enough. They produce a truly great magazine which we are proud to advertise in. As well as the hard work they put into the magazine, they have also found the time to support us, especially in our first year of running the Millhouse since January 2012.

We can’t thank them enough.”

Karl and Olivia Millhouse Hotel & Riverside Restaurant

%! & #

$ ! "

“I have been using Affinity to advertise my home and garden maintenance business for the past year and couldn’t have found a better place for advertising.

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

01234 215523

!"

AffinityMag

"

www.affinitymag.co.uk

@affinitymagz

advert photos_photo advert 13/05/2013 10:56 Page 1

Photography for all occasions

Photography by Vadisoro A reportage of diverse photography for any occasion facebook.com/photography by vadisoro

Vadisoro1@gmail.com

@vadisoro

07946 159486

Affinity June 2013 Cover _Layout 1 copy 16/05/2013 05:32 Page 1

www.affinitymag.co.uk

JUNE 2013

ISSUE 25

FREE

June 2013

2

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

AFFINITY LUXURY LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

2

CELEBRATING

2 YEARS OF AFFINITY BEAUTY - FOOD - DRINK - HEALTH - FITNESS - STYLE - INTERIORS - MOTORS - WHAT’S ON