Mar2016

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AFFINITY LUXURY LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

FREE www.affinitymag.co.uk

March 2016

Hair Heroes MARCH 2016 ISSUE 58

Spring has Sprung

Hot off the press

Light Revolution Fashion trends you’ll love

Improve your home with perfect lighting

Last Word in Luxury at Imperial Springs Resort

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Welcome...

Hi Everyone bring you the best concealers (page 22) to hide these and have you looking as fresh as a daisy.

Ooooh I’m so excited I can hardly contain myself – Tom Jones is coming to Bedford! He’s going to perform on Sunday 7th August at Bedford Park in conjunction with Bedford Park Concerts and I for one can’t wait, turn to page 13 on how to get your tickets. (Knickers optional!)

Finally, we caught up with up and coming Director and Producer of a new British Film ‘Lapse of Honour’ Rayna Campbell who tells us why she’d be a chocolate chip cookie!

This month not only sees us celebrating Mother’s Day but also Easter (27th March) and with all those chocolate treats out there you’ll be spoilt for choice, page 50 shows you a few of our favourite Easter treats fit for any bunny!

Until Next Month Hoppy Easter!

A visit to London is always on the agenda for us and this month was no exception. This time we stayed at Kings Cross (not literally), but in the Great Northern Hotel an exquisite boutique Hotel, just 25 metres from the Eurostar terminus with rooms designed to look like railway carriages an absolute treasure (page 68).

Jane x

Late nights, cold weather and stress can have us feeling exhausted with dark circles appearing under our eyes, we

Cover Image: Long Tall Sally

Editor: Jane Fry jane@affinitymag.co.uk 01234 962106 - 07507 602401 Advertising: Gwen D’Souza affinitymaggwen@gmail.com 07506 770554 Graphic Design and Photography: David Zita dave@affinitymag.co.uk www.affinitymag.co.uk facebook.com/AffinityMag @affinitymagz

linkedin.com/pub/jane-zita-fry

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

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CONTENTS

14 Laughter - The Benefits 16 Beauty Updates 21 Hot Picks

28 Bloomtastic 31 All Ears 40 El Great at El Greco

42 Foodie News 48 Dessert Heaven 54 Orange Crush

60 63 66 70 72

All About...

Moody Blues Last Word in Luxury The Bodyguard Your Stars

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What does your kitchen mean to you

Ltd Very affordable true HANDLELESS GERMAN kitchens now in store

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

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Hair Heroes

ESPA Natural Haircare Shampoo and Conditioner £20 each, espaskincare.com

SheaMoisture 10-in-1 Multi Benefit Hair Masque £12.99

Charles Worthington BAFTA Edition Volume & Bounce Perfect Finish Hairspray £6.99 Boots

Philip Kingsley Citrus Sunshine Swimcap, £13, philipkingsley.co.uk

Kerastase Elixir Ultime Volume Beautifying Oil Mist £36.50 Taya Inner Core Anti Breakage Creme £26, QVC £26

KhairPep Transforme Serum £17.50 (10ml) Space NK Redken Shape Factor 22 £13

SACHAJUAN Protective Hair Perfume £40 Net-a-Porter

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The Health Benefits of

Laughter

F

orget sit-ups, weight training and running – if you want a super-fit body, just have a LAUGH.

Entertainment TV channel Dave commissioned Dr Helen Pilcher and Timandra Harkness from the Comedy Research Project, an independent group that researches gelotology (the science of laughter) to compile the report.

Watching sitcoms and laughing out loud can improve cardiovascular health, increase heart rate and help weight loss, according to a new report that reviews academic research into the effects of laughter. Apparently people who laugh loudest and longest will get fit quickest – burning up to 120 calories an hour. Laughter is an aerobic activity that has previously been shown to burn calories (Miller and Fry 2009). It’s estimated that 15 minutes of laughter per day can increase total energy expenditure by up to 40 calories.

Pilcher and Harkness identified five different intensities of laughter, ranging from the ‘Howler’ (“intense, involuntary and uncontrollable”) to the ‘Snigger,’ where “joyful snorts signal a positive reaction to a comedy scenario”, and estimated the calories associated with each type. They then went on to predict the calorie loss that could be achieved from laughing at a number of different comedy shows.

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The Howler – Flat out, uncontrollable, roll on the floor laughter can burn up to 120 calories per hour

chuckling before you embark on strenuous belly laughs and howling with laughter.

Shape up for Spring (Cleaning) This recommends mixing laughter with housework to augment the calorie-burning effects of mirth.

The Belly Buster - Hearty belly laughs can burn up to 100 calories per hour.

The Giggle – Getting the giggles can burn up to 33 calories per hour.

Like laughter, housework is an aerobic activity, so it can be used to supplement the caloriecrunching effects of mirth. It’s also highly compatible with enjoying TV comedy.

The Chuckle – Irrepressible chuckling can burn up to 20 calories per hour.

The Snigger – Sniggering can burn up to 10 calories per hour.

So 60 minutes of ironing (160 calories) + 15 minutes chuckling (5 calories), 30 minutes giggling (16.5 calories) and 15 minutes of belly busters (25 calories) = 206.5 calories.

Based on these findings, they have devised propose two new laughter-based weight loss regimes:

This is to be followed by 60 minutes of vacuuming (246 calories) + 15 minutes chuckling (5 calories), 30 minutes belly laughs (50 calories) and 15 minutes of howling with laughter (30 calories) = 331 calories.

The ‘Hyena’ This advocates lengthy bouts of extreme laughter, and has the potential to burn an extra 130 calories per day.

To burn off an extra stone over the course of a year, the average adult has to consume around 49,000 fewer calories than normal, or expend 49,000 extra calories without eating any more.

That’s a total of 537.5 calories in just two hours, without even leaving the house or changing out of slippers. Just one week of that regime would leave you approximately 1lb lighter – and a much cleaner house.

Per day, that means you will need to laugh away an extra 134 calories. To achieve this, you need to do 22 minutes of howling (41 calories), 30 minutes of belly laughs (50 calories), an hour of giggling (33 calories), and half an hour of chuckling (10 calories).

After around a calendar month you could be 4.6 pounds (1/3 stone) lighter, more toned, fitter, and crease-free from your socks to your tea towels.

So our motto is - forget slogging it out in the gym surrounded by Lycra-clad Adonis’ and start laughing – the more you laugh, the fitter you’ll be!

*As with any form of exercise, don’t forget to warm up first. Try some gentle sniggering and 15

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Peanut Butter and Jelly

A Little Reflection

The new Oil Reflections range from Wella Professionals is a complete hair care collection inspired by its existing product Oil Reflections hair oil. The range starts from £13.49 for the Luminous Reveal Shampoo and is available from Wella Professionals salons nationwide.

The new offering from Too Faced is their Peanut Butter and Jelly Eye Shadow Collection. Priced at £27 and exclusive to toofaced.com. This delicious palette was inspired by the social media sensation that is Peanut Butter from its bestselling Semi-Sweet Chocolate Bar Collection, the brand created this peanut butter palette of nine matte and shimmer shades featuring antioxidant-rich cocoa powder with a creamy peanut butter twist. It Includes their signature Glamour Guide with three looks to get you started.

BEAUTY UPDATES

Erase your Make Up

BLOOM at Harrods

Following the success of its unique range of functional and flavoured matchas, BLOOM has teamed up with Harrods and created 3 *NEW* functional super-teas to add to its growing collection of nutrient-rich superfood tea powders. Priced from £16.99 NUTRIFUSION MATCHA is your daily multi vitamin, TRIMTIME MATCHA is your perfect partner for shifting some pounds and POWERDRIVE MATCHA is formulated to naturally energise and help support and repair muscle.

Released this month Murad are launching their new Hydro-Dynamic family, a high performance solution which attracts and binds water to the skin. Hydrated skin functions better, feels smoother and looks younger.

Priced at £59.50 for the Hydro-Dynamic Quenching Essence and £55 for the Hydro Dynamic Ultra Moisture.

Luxury Traveller ELEMIS has collaborated with Aspinal of London to create a L u x u r y T r a v e l Collection.

The collection comprises of Skin Nourishing Shower Cream 100ml, ProCollagen Cleansing Balm 20g, Soothing Apricot Toner 50ml, ProCollagen Marine Cream 30ml, Pro-Collagen Oxygenating Night Cream 15ml, The Aspinal of London Classic Travel Wallet and The Aspinal of London Passport Cover. RRP £175 (worth £267), available online now.

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Hands UP

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Burts Bees Beeswax & Banana Hand Creme £9.99

Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Hand Cream £26, Boots balance me Super Moisturising Hand Cream £14.50

Cow Pat Moisturising Hand Cream £18 Cowshed

KhairPep Transforme Serum £17.50 (10ml) Space NK

Neal's Yard Geranium & Orange Hand Cream £10 Clarins Hand & Nail Cream £27 Debenhams Liz Earle Hand Repair £9.75

The Body Shop Wild Rose Hand Cream £5

Murad Rejuvenating AHA Hand Cream £24 L'Occitane Cherry Blossom Hand Cream £14, Debenhams

Creme de la Mer The Hand Treatment £65 John Lewis

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Midlife Madness What’s Wrong with Ice Cream and a Movie?

By the time you get to my age most people have first-hand experience of the heartbreak that comes from a break-up and have certainly had a fair number of friends, relations, colleagues and even grown up children who have also experienced the acute form of despair that can accompany a break-up driven heart-break.

very naughty food, outrageous amounts of crisps, pizza or another take away – trust me it is not the kind of night for carrot sticks! Then moving onto a scandalous amount of chocolate or ice cream or any other sweet treats. We all know it doesn’t actually heal the heartbreak but I’d like to think it helps and while I wouldn’t wish for a friend to experience sorrow they can be rather fun evenings.

So what is one to do? Well, I must say I have had a kind of pride in how I approach my role as heart-break counsellor – until now that is.

Which is why I must confess to feeling a little put out by the behaviour of recently heart-broken friends and family.

I suppose like lots of ‘phases’ I could blame Hollywood with films like Eat Pray Love – since when did the heartbroken among us start running away to find themselves, love, adventure, excitement, or even a quiet place to cry. And let’s be clear, I am not talking about a weekend at a spa, or even a week in Spain (I could volunteer to go with them just to take the tissues!).

Depending on the person concerned and the nature of the break-up – you can go down the whole – ‘well I never liked him anyway’, ‘it’s a lucky escape’, ‘he was always a ba****d’, ‘you deserve better’ through to the ‘there are plenty more fish in the sea’, ‘one day you’ll see it was for the best’, or ‘the best way to get over a bloke is to….’ (I’m sure you know how that one ends)!

No, I am talking serious travels here, everything form a month in Thailand, a tour of India, trips to South America, or New Zealand or even in the case of a few – working abroad for a year or an around the world (or a few continents) trips.

Of course words alone simply don’t cut it – you need to devote time to the sufferer, offer tea and sympathy and organise some female solidarity evenings – like a kind of hen party in reverse. Broadly they fall into two categories, raucous nights out – lots of hazards there when you get to my age, OR the girls night in. This has to rank as my own personal favourite. I am afraid my perspective is unashamedly female – not sure what blokes do - guess its beer and football!

I guess such privilege often comes when people are a bit older or the break up has been with a long term partner with perhaps some equity in a house they have ‘halved’ or very substantial savings. But then I must confess to knowing a number of much younger folk who seem happy to resign jobs and just up sticks to foreign climes.

There is no ‘one’ recipe but the essential ingredients are several female friends, a good movie, I’ve heard Magic Mike is a winner but any movie will do, Mama Mia, or even Love Actually, Knotting Hill or for people who want a proper wallow rather than a few tears then The Notebook or PS I Love You should do the trick. A movie with their particular brand of eye candy will be a thoughtful choice (in case I ever need it Johnny Depp please).

My problem is twofold – I consider myself slightly robbed in that not only do I not get to share in the heart-break parties but I find myself very jealous of all their travels – regardless of whether they find themselves, or love or whatever they went looking for. Why couldn’t we just stick to a movie and ice-cream, I find myself wanting a break up just as an excuse to travel, and that can’t be right. Can it?

Usually the evening involves wine or other alcohol, some 20

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Tresor Paris Vega Rose Gold Plated Stainless Steel Necklace £47, Tresor Paris

Miroir Shoe £149, Dune

Soft Pastel Leather Gloves £55, www.dents.co.uk

AFFINITY Purple Nutribullet £79.99 highstreettv.com

Penhaligon’s Equinox Bloom Fragrance £90, .penhaligons.com

Vivienne Westwood Bloomsbury Watch £260, watchshop.com

HOT PICKS

Emma Bridgewater Sleepwear £22.50 M&S

This month’s must have gifts and accessories

Dolce&Gabbana Dolce Rosa Excelsa Fragrance £49, Nationwide

Newton’s Appl Fizzics Drink £2.49, www.amazon.co.uk

Linea Lustre Martini Set £50, House of Fraser

Gold Metallic Jeans £32, Very

Aqua Sana Spirit of Spa From £6.50, aquasana.co.uk

Star by Julien MacDonald Bag £45 Debenhams

goo.ey Melissa Odbash Phone Case £22.99 goohq.com

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MeMeMe Flawless Concealer (£7.95 mememecosmetics.com) This hydrating cream concealer, smooths blemishes and covers imperfections to give the skin a natural flawless finish

Correct Conceal and

Dark circles under your eyes?

Sudden spot on your forehead?

These concealers will save the day!

Make Up For Ever Lift Concealer (£18.50, preciousaboutmakeup.com) Lift Concealer with skin-firming properties for the eye area, and vitamins A and E to regenerate the skin

MeMeMe Correct and Perfect Concealer Kit (£8.50 mememecosmetics.com) The hydrating cream concealer hides sneaky tell-tale dark circles and blemishes whilst the light-weight mattifying powder sets in place

Make Up For Ever Full Cover Concealer (£21, preciousaboutmakeup.com) This waterproof and long lasting concealer is perfect for concealing all complexion flaws

NARS Concealer (£19, narscosmetics.co.uk) Brilliantly obscures imperfections and dark spots with a creamy, vitamin-rich formula that nourishes the skin for all-day wear

Clinique Airbrush Concealer (£19, Debenhams) Hides shadows, illuminates and perfects your complexion and eye area

YSL’S Touche Eclat Neutralizers (£25, Debenhams) Now available in three colour correcting formulas, for redness, sallow skin and to banish dark circles

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

y e e

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

As a herbalist and naturopath I can help you with

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

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

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Invest in Yourself Learning to

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W

health may well take time effort and possibly some money but it will be worth it to feel and be healthy and well.

hen we talk about investment we are usually talking about putting money, or perhaps time or effort into something that is of value. Often we will devote time and effort to friends and family, sometimes at the expense of our own good and we are usually happy to invest money into things, people or causes that we value too.

Invest in yourself, in your education, there’s nothing better.

Sylvia Porter

Learning is not just about formal education, though that might well be a good way for some people to invest in themselves, it could be pursuing a course or qualification or taking up a new hobby, or simply spending time reading books, researching something of interest or even learning a new skill. Brains are essentially muscle and like any other muscle ‘exercising’ it is good.

The word ‘value’ is the key word her – because many people find it hard to put sufficient value on themselves to justify investing in themselves.

But life, or a t least a happy life is not about standing still it is a journey and usually we are happiest when we are moving forward in some way and that is where investment in ourselves becomes important.

Not only does it keep the brain healthy but it usually makes us feel good about ourselves and can make us much better company. There is increasing evidence that spending time being creative also helps us to think in different ways and creative activities are also thought to be good for reducing stress. So expand your horizons and start exercising your mind and perhaps reengaging your creative side. It’s not a waste of money, time or effort to indulge in some learning or a new hobby – just see it for what it is – an investment in yourself.

Investing in yourself is the best investment you will ever make. It will not only improve your life it will, improve the lives of all those around you.

Robin S Sharma

So how do you invest in yourself? Well first of all you need to develop an investment mind set and one that lets you value yourself. You are important, that doesn’t mean others are of less importance but it does mean that it is ok to spend time or money or effort on YOU. Investment is not squandering, investors will usually consider things carefully, they will do their research but then they will invest – they will give that time or money or effort because they know, or have a hope based on sound judgement that it will yield rewards.

Invest in your Own Happiness This is often the area people neglect to invest in.

It can be very easy to get drawn into making sure everyone else you love is happy and cared for and somehow overlook yourself. It is especially easy when you are busy or others depend on you. But if you can make sure you invest in your own happiness that will actually have a knock on effect on the people that you love and care for.

Don’t rely on someone else for your happiness and self-worth. Only YOU can be responsible for it. You have to invest in yourself, or no one else will.

Invest in your Body We know we are mortal but most of us want to live long as well as happy lives but we all just have that one body to inhabit. So start investing in it. Make sure you get enough sleep, some good food and take exercise – I know sometimes we can get a bit bombarded with health messages that may conflict a bit but we also all know when we feel good and what helps us to feel healthy.

This is not going to be a lecture and I know it is not a simple equation but we can all view a little change as an investment not a sacrifice.

The best way to predict your future is to create it Abraham Lincoln

As noted earlier we usually only invest in things we value well it’s time to start valuing yourself and making an investment in YOU.

That might mean changing our diet, or losing weight, it might mean exercising more often, or even getting a better work life balance to ensure we can get enough sleep – but they are all ways of investing in ourselves by looking after our physical health. Investing in our own body and

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

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FASHION

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glamorous

Bloomtastic

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Wrap Dress £40 BHS

Dress £22.99 New Look Floral Skirt £65 Phase Eight

debenhams Dress £120 Phase Eight

Therapy Bag £39 House of Fraser

Per Una Skirt M&S Jumpsuit £55 Wallis Trousers £129 M&S

Pencil Skirt £22 River Island

Shirt Dress £99 Phase Eight Floral Blazer £32 Very

Flower Earrings £9.99 New Look Flower Heels £18 Very

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The Bomber

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Pink Jacket £27.99 New Look Floral Bomber £29.99 TK Maxx

Black Floral Bomber Jacket £29.99 New Look

Suedette Bomber £29.99 New Look

Black Bomber £65 Topshop

Hunter Bomber Jacket £240 House of Fraser

Satin Bomber Jacket £30 Pretty Little Thing

Bomber Jacket £59 M&S

Leather Patchwork Bomber £180 River Island

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All Ears Heart Hoop Earrings £12.50 White Stuff

Aztec Earrings £14 Look Again

Jaeger Marble Drop Earrings £35

Drop Earrings £17 Monsoon Earrings £5.99 New Look

Mood Earrings £10 Debenhams

Earrings M&S

Earrings £7.99 New Look

Short Drop Hammered earrings £20 Monsoon Jaeger Tassel Earrings £25

Drop Earrings £9.50 M&S

Yellow Fever

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Top £18 River Island

Dress £28 BHS Blouse River Island

Military Blouse £10 Primark

houseoffraser

Ralph Lauren Silk Dress £215 House of Fraser Crinkle Top £22 BHS

Shirt Dress £13 Primark

Jumper £36 River Island Milano Shoe £85 Dune

Yellow Tint Sunglasses £5.99 New Look

Shoulder Bag £19.99 New Look

Animal Magic

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Belt £12.50 M&S

Dress £60 JD Williams

laredoute

Top £59 Jacques Vert

Ankle Boots £46 River Island Cape £18

Culottes £32 Very

Scarf £35 Dune Biba Bucket Bag £79 House of Fraser Sunglasses £16 River Island

Shoes £24.99 TK Maxx

Biba Leopard Print Jumpsuit £110 House of Fraser

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FOOD & DRINK

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El Great at El Greco If you haven’t paid a visit to the recently opened El Greco Mediterranean restaurant on the corner of Harpur Street in Bedford then you are missing a real foodie experience.

Offering dishes from across the globe, including salads, pasta, steak, calamari, swordfish and so much more, as well as the infamous ‘El Greco Meat Platter’ a combination of dips, steak, grilled haloumi, pork skewer, mushrooms and lamb.

and you realise that this restaurant is offering you a dining experience with a relaxed and casual atmosphere – perfectly combining the traditional with the contemporary.

Having been shown to our table by the friendly waiter we enjoyed pre dinner drinks whilst contemplating menu choices – We were in fact spoilt for choice so Mani (the owner) informed us he would bring a selection of some of his more popular dishes to try, combining some dinner and lunchtime ones – I couldn’t wait!

As soon as you walk through the door the décor is striking 40

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Mixed dips and olives, Halumi wrapped in aubergines, pasta with a vegetarian sauce, salads, mushrooms stuffed with spinach and feta, El Greco Delores pork with a cheese sauce (you can have this with turkey or beef), spicy chicken wings, and home cooked chips were the dishes that we delighted in tasting.

The Halumi wrapped in aubergines was simply divine as was the mushroom stuffed with spinach and feta, Hubby particularly loved the vegetarian pasta (high praise coming from an Italian) and the Delores pork was a real treat – Food here is freshly cooked and truly sumptuous.

Open from 10am daily El Greco offers a vast choice for its customers, whether its just a morning coffee, a pannini at lunchtime or an evening meal then this is the place to go with family, friends or business colleagues.

Just added to the menu is a real lunchtime treat £5.50 for a glass of wine (or soft drink) and a main meal from a selection of some of the dishes we had tried including the vegetarian pasta and Delores pork, beef or chicken – portions are plentiful making this a fabulous deal – alternatively you could choose the EL Greco mixed grill from the lunch menu (£7.50) apparently once eaten always eaten!

I know where I’ll be spending a few business lunches in future!

El Greco Eatery Bedford 01234 349453 www.elgrecobedford.co.uk

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Botanicals & Tonics

Café Royal have just launched Green Bar Botanicals & Tonics, a distinctive new gin bar celebrating London’s history of using botanicals in gin production and mixology, as well as the various styles in which gin is served internationally. Created by the bar’s expert mixologists, the new Gin Journey menu will feature unique takes on the favoured gin and tonic cocktail, made from a wide range of gins, tonics and garnishes from all around the world with a particular focus on their personality and the history behind them. www.hotelcaferoyal.com

An Artisan Tea Revival

FOODIE NEWS

Tea enthusiasts have something exciting to look forward to with a new subscription package that brings a dash of adventure to every cup. Inspired by the specialty tea trend, Tea Roulette delivers a cherry picked collection of imaginative blends, direct to the doors of subscribers across the UK. The selection is beautifully packaged in a reusable cotton pouch.

From morning wake up calls, afternoon pick-me-ups and late night cuppas, Tea Roulette exists to bring a little excitement to every sip. Subscriptions cost just £9.95 a month.

Sand’Wiching

Ben & Jerry’s flavour gurus have been hard at work, thinking out of the tub to make their legendary Cookie Dough ice cream even cookier! Say hello to the ‘Wich family – perfectly sand’Wiching Ben & Jerry’s best-loved ice cream flavours between two scrumptious soft baked cookies. Set to hit freezers across the country this month with flavours fans know and love, starting from £2.49 for a single ‘Wich we can’t wait!

Gold SECCO

We are in love with this - not only is it a beautiful product aesthetically it also tastes delicious – Secco+ is a dazzling collection of four glistening gold bottles in classic Prosecco and 3 alternative flavours blended with fruits and colour coded for each one, White for Coconut, Cerise Pink for Pink Guava and Red for the energy drink blend. Prices starting from just £18.99 these glamorous metalised curved silhouette bottles are just perfect, available online from haywood-drinks.uk 42

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Macaroni and Cheesy Chicken Baked Casserole

“Take your macaroni cheese to a whole new level by adding chicken and vegetables, this weeknight favourite won't seem the same again”

Ingredients

3 cups uncooked macaroni 2 tbsp olive oil Salt and pepper 1lb uncooked chicken, finely chopped 2 bags (11 oz each) frozen healthy colours mixed vegetables 3 tbsp butter 3 tbsp all-purpose flour 2 cups milk 1 ½ tsp onion salt 12oz grated Cheddar cheese 1 can condensed cream of chicken soup 1 ½ cups bread crumbs ¼ cup butter, melted ½ tsp garlic salt ½ tsp pepper

Method Heat oven to 375F/190C/Gas 5. Cook and drain macaroni as directed Place in 13x9-inch (3-quart) glass baking dish.

Meanwhile, heat oil in a skillet over a medium-high heat. Sprinkle salt and pepper over the chicken; and add to the pan. Cook chicken, stirring frequently, until golden brown and no longer pink in center.

Sprinkle cooked chicken evenly over top of cooked macaroni in dish. Spread frozen vegetables on top of the chicken.

In same skillet, melt 3 tablespoons butter over medium heat. With whisk, scrape any browned bits from bottom of skillet into butter.

Stir in flour with whisk until paste forms. Gradually stir in milk, beating with whisk. Stir in onion salt, 2 cups of the cheese and the soup until mixture is smooth and well combined. Pour cheese mixture over vegetables in dish.

Sprinkle remaining 1 cup Cheddar cheese over top. In small bowl, place bread crumbs. Pour melted butter over crumbs. Add garlic salt and pepper; stir until crumbs are coated with butter.

Bake for 30 minutes or until mixture is bubbly and bread crumbs are browned. www.bettycrocker.com

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Courgette and Mozzarella Salad

“Sweet baby courgettes won't overpower the soothing slices of buffalo mozzarella, making this salad utterly irresistible”

Ingredients 3 pitta breads, halved and cut into triangles 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, plus extra for brushing 3 courgettes, trimmed 100g (3½oz) watercress 3 balls buffalo mozzarella, drained and ripped in half 1 tsp crushed chilli flakes For the dressing: 2 tbsp pistachios, finely chopped 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil 1 tbsp white wine vinegar 1/2 garlic clove, crushed 1 tsp caster sugar

Method Preheat the oven to gas 6, 200°C, fan 180°C. Arrange the pitta triangles on a baking tray, brush with a little olive oil, season, then bake for 6-7 minutes until golden. Set aside until needed.

Meanwhile, heat a griddle pan on the hob. Using a vegetable peeler, slice the courgettes lengthways into ribbons. Toss in a large bowl with 1tbsp of oil and some seasoning. Griddle the courgettes in batches, until lightly charred on both sides.

In a small bowl, combine the dressing ingredients and whisk with a little seasoning.

To serve, arrange the watercress on a serving platter and top with the pitta crisps, ripped mozzarella and courgettes.

Drizzle over the dressing and garnish with the chilli flakes and some freshly ground black pepper. www.tesco.com 47

mar2016.qxp_Jan 2014 Aff 25/02/2016 11:49 Page 46

Banoffee cupcakes Method

Ingredients

2 ripe bananas 125g butter 120g caster sugar 1 tsp vanilla extract 2 large eggs ½ tsp salt 150g Plain Flour 2 tsp baking powder 1 tsp cinnamon

Preheat the oven to 180°C, gas mark 4. Line your muffin tin with cupcake cases.

Mash the bananas until very soft and set aside. Beat the butter and half the sugar for at least 4 minutes with an electric hand whisk. Add the mashed bananas and vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs with the remaining sugar and the salt until pale and fluffy. Combine the egg mixture with the buttery banana mixture, then sieve over the flour, baking powder and cinnamon in batches, whisking between additions. Spoon the mixture evenly into the cupcake cases and bake in the middle of the oven for 25 minutes until they feel spongy and the tops are golden brown. Cool on a wire rack.

Meanwhile, make the toffee buttercream. Whisk the butter until creamy and light, then gradually whisk in the icing sugar. Add 1-2 tbsp water, 1 tbsp at a time, if the mixture looks too dry. Top each cupcake with buttercream.

For the toffee buttercream: Warm the Confiture de Caramel in a pan, until it’s 100g unsalted butter, softened runny. Using a spoon, swirl over the buttercream icing 300g icing sugar and sprinkle over the fudge chunks. Finally, arrange 100g Bonne Maman Confiture de Caramel slices of banana into the icing. Serve immediately, as 50g Cooks' Ingredients Fudge Chunks the banana slices will brown when exposed to the air. ½ banana, cut into 12 thin slices www.waitrose.com

Lemon-Blueberry Pretzel Cheescake Squares Ingredients

16.5 oz cookie dough 1 1/2 cups coarsely crushed pretzels 2 cups blueberries 3 x 8 oz cream cheese, softened 1/2 cup sugar 2 teaspoons vanilla 2 tablespoons grated lemon peel 3 eggs Additional 2 cups blueberries for garnish

Method

Heat oven to 350F/180C/Gas 4. Spray a13x9-inch pan with cooking spray.

In a medium bowl, break up cookie dough. Stir or knead in 1 cup of the pretzel crumbs. Press cookie dough evenly in bottom of pan. (If dough is sticky, use floured fingers.)

Bake for 5 minutes. Place 2 cups blueberries evenly on the crust.

In another bowl, beat the cream cheese, sugar, vanilla and lemon peel until well blended. Add eggs; beat for about 2 minutes or until creamy. Gently spoon evenly over blueberries.

Bake for approx 25 minutes or until set at least 2 inches from edge of pan but the center still jiggles slightly when moved (it will become firm during refrigeration). Cool for 1 hour. Refrigerate for about 1 1/2 hours or until chilled and firm. Cut into 8 rows by 3 rows.

Spoon 1 teaspoon of the remaining pretzel crumbs and a few blueberries over each serving. www.justapinch.com

Thick Chocolate Pudding

Method

Ingredients

1⁄4 cup cocoa 3 tbsp corn starch 1⁄8 tsp salt 2 cup skimmed milk 1 tsp vanilla extract

In a microwaveable bowl, combine the first four ingredients.

Stir in milk until smooth. Microwave, uncovered on high for 3 minutes; stir.

Microwave 4-6 minutes longer or until thickened, stirring after each minute.

Stir in the vanilla. Pour into individual serving dishes and allow to cool Refrigerate.

Garnish with whipped topping if desired. www.Food.com

mar2016.qxp_Jan 2014 Aff 25/02/2016 11:49 Page 47

Pudding Nights

"

11th March, 15th April & 6th May only £16 for a main course and as many desserts as you can squeeze in

Chinese Night

25th March A large selection of favourite Chinese dishes, only £20 per person

"

You can't beat a nice splash of rosé in your glass. Drink pink has become something of a mantra for UK wine lovers, here's our picks

Blackfoot Daisy Rose 2014

A gorgeous, light cherry coloured rosé full of red fruit with a little hint of that classic Cabernet cassis.

With a great taste of the sun-kissed vineyards of South Australia. Serve it nice and cold

£8.99 , Virgin Wines

Live Music Nights

8th April Jazz music with Dom Chandler 13th May Acoustic music with Danni Bentley, lead singer from The VIPeas

Spring Menu Tasting Night

22nd April Come along to sample our new spring menu, £22.50 per person

01234 781678

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

The Black Pig Rose 2015 A super fresh wine that sits on the lighter side but with a classic intensity from the South Australian sunshine. Full of red berry fruit, a little spice and intense blackcurrant finish. £9.99, Virgin Wines

Levin Rosin 2011 A strawberry infused rosé, offering cranberry, red currants and wisps of spice with a clean, crisp acidity and mineral edge. £11.99, Virgin Wines

mar2016.qxp_Jan 2014 Aff 27/02/2016 16:42 Page 48

Easter Eggcellence Bettys Easter Egg Collection £33.50 bettys.co.uk

Bettys Milk Chocolate Egg & Handmade Chocolates £36 bettys.co.uk

Large Easter Egg Tin £9.95 Harrods

Hotel Chocolat Rocky Road to Caramel £27

Green & Black's Tasting Collection Egg £17.99

Elizabeth Shaw Mint/Orange Crisp Egg £10 Asda

mar2016.qxp_Jan 2014 Aff 27/02/2016 16:39 Page 49

Hotel Chocolat Easter Collection £35 Bettys Spring Flowers Egg bettys.co.uk

Prestat Dark Chocolate & Sea Salt Caramel Truffle Easter Egg, £14 John Lewis

The Cocoabean Company All Over Sprinkle Easter Egg, £11 John Lewis Easter Biscuits £39.50 Biscuiteers Baking

Personalised Mini Egg Tree £18.99 Cuckooland.com

Elizabeth Shaw Whisky Collection Egg £10 Waitrose/Asda

Lindt Gold Bunny Soft Toy with Mini Milk Bunnies £13.49

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INTERIORS

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Amara

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Orange Crush

Throw £25 Debenhams Roberts Radio £139 Very

Tealight Jar £5.50 Amara

Lido Luca Cushion £12 Debenhams

Me You Reversible Cushion £8 Next

Wentworth Armchair £175 Wilko Cushion £12 Very

mar2016.qxp_Jan 2014 Aff 25/02/2016 11:52 Page 53

amara

Pendant Light £60 BHS

Rug £74 Very Linea Rattan Storage Basket £28 House of Fraser

Le Creuset Cafetiere £50 House of Fraser

Fragranced Votives (set 3) £6 Next Glass Table Lamp £14 Next

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mar2016.qxp_Jan 2014 Aff 25/02/2016 11:52 Page 57

All About...

mar2016.qxp_Jan 2014 Aff 25/02/2016 11:52 Page 58

Rayna Campbell

Director of the Manchester based, British film Lapse of Honour which was shown last month at the Pan African Film Festival in LA. Director Rayna Campbell wrote and produced the script to Lapse of Honour and is no stranger to film and TV herself having starred in British prime time favourites such as Casualty, Waterloo Road and Scott and Bailey as well as playing the lead role in the Award winning feature Film Layla Fourie opposite August Diehl (Inglorious Bastards).

We caught up with Rayna, to find out what makes her tick:

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Describe yourself in three words?

Passionate, sensitive, ambitious

Kris Jenner. She has a quote that she uses a lot which is If someone says no to you, you're talking to the wrong person. That philosphy changed so much for me. I'd like to meet her to say thank you for sharing that.

Your favourite place to relax?

Walking through Bushy Park in Hampton

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

Chocolate chip cookie! Because I'm so delicious. I may seem hard but I'm full of gorgeousness.

Your most extravagant purchase and why?

My wedding dress. I got it from The Pronovias boutique in Harrods. I picked it out then looked at the price tag after, it was a lot more than I had planned on spending but was so worth it.

What is your greatest fear?

Not acheiving everything that I want to do.

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

My i phone. I literally use it to do everything, everyday.

Take all my photo's make and receive calls, e-mail, find directions, update my social media, store notes and important numbers and make little videos.

What book would you recommend to others?

The Game of Life and How to Play it by Florence Scovel Shinn. Gorgeous little book full of profound knowledge on how to get what you want out of life.

What would your last meal be?

Oh man, currently it would probably be a burger with bacon and avocado and a side of french fries from The Counter in Los Angeles.

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

Lupita Nyongo. She is a great actress, we're similar in age, build and colour and she can portray a wide range of emotions which would be a definite prerequisite.

Describe your ideal man?

Honest, generous, sense of humour, adventurous, empathetic, strong, healthy, courageous, sophisticated, always improving.

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

My hot water bottle, my journal, my i phone.

What would you do if you had a time machine?

Whizz back to when Jesus was on the earth and sit in on one of his sermons, then ask him a ton of questions after.

You can’t leave the house without and why?

My hot water bottle. It's become an obsession. I pretty much always have one on me. They are just so cosy.

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

Avocados, olives, salad leaves, vegetables, watermelon and papaya, fennel salami, cheeses, coconut milk and water and a ton of sauces and relishes

If you could be remembered for one thing what would it be?

That I made everyone I interacted with feel better or become better versions of themselves by encouraging or advising them.

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

61

Fry’s Footie Corner

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You ask the top clubs now to prioritise the cup competitions and it is pretty much guaranteed that the Capital One Cup will come low on the list and as disappointing as this next statement is, the FA Cup is just above that particularly trophy on the list.

In fact, if you ask the top clubs, finishing in the top four of the Premier League is probably more important than lifting a trophy. That is all down to finances. The Champions League is the pinnacle.

No other competition has a theme song. The Champions League is where everyone wants to be.

But just being in the Premier League is worth more money than you could ever imagine. That is why so many

struggling Premier Leagues are throwing money at players to try and keep them in the division.

It is why so many Championship clubs are spending more money than they can afford on trying to get out of the division. You only have to look at the January transfer window.

Middlesbrough spent ÂŁ9 million on Jordan Rhodes.

This can be viewed as a constructive gamble by chairman Steve Gibson. He knows that Rhodes scores goals in the Championship. He believes the outlay on him will pale into insignificance if they get promoted because of the money they will then make thanks to the new multi-billion pound TV deal.

62

As we go into the final part of the season, the pressure on these clubs to be successful is immense. They know what they have to do and if they fall short, they know that their budgets will probably be slashed for next season.

It will be interesting to see how they cope. It will also be extremely interesting to see how the Premier League concludes with the title race still wide open. It is incredible to see how tight it is and I for one, cannot wait to see how it turns out.

Barry Fry

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Jacket £29.99 New Look

Diesel Belther Jeans Get The Label Red Herring T-Shirt Debenhams

jaeger

Blues Jeff Banks Shirt £42 Debenhams

Moody

Milano Zip Sweater £150 Jaeger

Printed T-Shirt £20 Next

Suede Shoes £40 River Island marksandspencer

Bleu De Chanel £47.50 The Fragrance Shop Watch £28 River Island

mar2016.qxp_Jan 2014 Aff 25/02/2016 11:52 Page 62

TRAVEL

mar2016.qxp_Jan 2014 Aff 25/02/2016 11:52 Page 63

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The Last Word in Luxury at

The Imperial Springs Resort, China

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Imperial Springs Resort is a newly opened, supremely luxurious five-star property in southern China located on its own private 2.8 million square metre estate, an area larger than Monaco. Featuring traditional Chinese architecture, Imperial Springs is situated in the mountainous region of Conghua on the site of natural hot thermal springs long recognised for their healing qualities.

offering its occupants no less than 28 guest rooms.

The property, which can easily be reached within an hour of Guangzhou International Airport, offers guests an impressive range of facilities and amenities including:

The world class, 27-hole championship GOLF COURSE was designed by Colin Montgomerie and is located in the heart of the mountains, surrounded by clear freshwater streams.

Meanwhile the prestigious Clubhouse is a fusion of Chinese decor and Western design providing unobstructed 180 degree views from its panoramic balcony.

• 37 courtyard villas and 90 suites with 24 hour butler service • Phoenix Mansion, the presidential villa, with its own 28 guest rooms • The Kingold Museum housing over 20,000 priceless Chinese artefacts • The Imperial Spa with Chinese, Thai and Turkish therapies • A 27-hole championship golf course designed by Colin Montgomerie • A choice of six restaurants each offering a different culinary experience Imperial Springs' spacious 90 suites have access to a private swimming pool whilst the 37 villas offer a further degree of exclusive separate living with a private outdoor pool, a Jacuzzi and access to the hot springs. All guests receive 24 hour butler service.

Phoenix Mansion, the property's presidential villa, so named because it sits atop Phoenix Mountain, is as beautiful as it is exclusive,

The IMPERIAL SPA is incorporated within a beautiful, serene garden. Guests can choose from a range of pampering experiences including Chinese therapies designed to balance mind and body, as well as Thai and Turkish treatments.

The property's six elegant DINING options offer not only the very best Chaozhou cuisine, one of the most famous cooking styles of southern China, but also a selection of European and world cuisine.

With calm and relaxation being of paramount importance, no cars are allowed on site which is why state-of-the-art golf buggies provide the transport of choice.

BOOK IT:

Prices for Imperial Springs, a member of Small Luxury Hotels, start from £245 per night for a deluxe room and £425 per night for a suite. Prices are based on two people sharing on a bed and breakfast basis. www.imperialsprings.com

mar2016.qxp_Jan 2014 Aff 25/02/2016 11:52 Page 66

Welcome To The World’s First Great Railway Hotel

The Great Northern

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The Great Northern Hotel is an exquisitely designed, luxurious boutique hotel with an extraordinary location just 25 metres from the Eurostar terminus in the heart of King's Cross St Pancras.

Having first opened in 1854, and now magnificently refurbished, this hotel is the finest luxury boutique hotel in London. Exquisitely re-designed to evoke all the glamour and grace of its past, whilst still retaining its original grandeur, gracefully refreshed in modern, whimsical and sophisticated ways.

Check in takes place in a stylish reception area, that could almost be mistaken for an elegant first class railway carriage with wooden panelling, dark grey walls, cream leather seats and expensive art deco lights.

The hotel has six floors and 91 high-ceilinged rooms with triple-glazed floor-to-ceiling windows leading off expansive corridors. Attention to detail is paramount. At the far end of each corridor is a delightful little pantry room open 24/7 offering free tea, coffee and newspapers – as well as cakes and retro sweets, you’re spoilt for choice but make sure you don’t spoil your dinner!

There are 3 different style rooms that are all as elegant and charming as each other, it is hard to choose a favourite. The Couchette rooms are named after train carriages, and resemble just that. Stylish and comfortable, with high ceilings and an abundance of natural light from the large windows.

Bathrooms retain their luxurious feel with bespoke fittings and walk-in showers.

The Wainscot rooms have striking decor with dark American walnut panelling and rich shades of plum add to the character. Tucked into the building’s arches these discrete rooms are perfect for longer stays.

Cubitt rooms are named after the hotel’s master builder, Lewis Cubitt, with direct views of King’s Cross and swathed in soothing shades of olive green

and cream, the Cubitt has glamorous bespoke leather and walnut furniture.

Pre dinner cocktails in the GNH BAR, was the perfect start to our evening, with its mirrored ceiling, hanging crystal chandeliers, red velvet curtains and curved black marble bar topped with pewter had me thinking I was in a scene from The Great Gatsby I almost expected Leonardo DiCaprio to join me for a cocktail or two!

With Leonardo heading off back to Hollywood we made our way into the equally stylish and atmospheric Plum + Spilt Milk restaurant. Cream leather curved banquettes and clusters of handblown smoked-glass pendants hanging from the dark ceiling create a railway waiting room look, the perfect place to eat.

Like the dining cars which the Flying Scotsman first pulled out of King’s Cross Station, Plum + Spilt Milk keeps service turning from dawn through to midnight. The menu is based on seasonal ‘British’ ingredients sourced and put together by Mark Sargent to create some mouth-watering dishes.

Our starters, were stunning: Creamed smoked haddock, with a poached hen’s egg and Tidenham duck salad were both an absolute treat on our taste buds Loin of Balmoral Estate Venison and Roasted loin of Cornish Lamb followed, the flavours of the different ingredients in both dishes were divine. To finish we had to try the aptly named Plum + Split Milk that was so delicious I almost ordered it again for breakfast!!

The food is just mouth wateringly tasty, and the ambience and service just perfect, I can understand why people are happy to sit and while the hours away eating, drinking and socializing.

BOOK IT!

Prices range from £269 - £429 per room including daily breakfast for each guest. www.gnhlondon.com

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The

Bodyguard

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B

ack in 2008 Alexandra Burke won the X Factor with an unforgettable duet finale with the World renowned Beyonce.

Now it’s time for her to slip into the shoes of the late great Whitney Houston as she stars in the musical version of the hit 1992 movie The Bodyguard.

Playing the role of American diva Rachel Marron, who hires former Secret Service agent turned bodyguard, Frank Farmer, to protect her from an unknown stalker - Each expects to be in charge – what they don't expect is to fall in love.

The musical, like the film, features a host of memorable Whitney classics, which Burke executes perfectly including Queen of the Night, So Emotional, One Moment in Time, Saving All My Love, Run to You, I Have Nothing, Jesus Loves Me, I Wanna Dance With Somebody and one of the greatest hit songs of all time – I Will Always Love You. But it’s not all about the singing, there is spectacular staging and stunning costume designs making the whole show simply breathtaking.

Tues 12th – Sat 23rd April Milton Keynes Theatre 0844 8717652 www.atgtickets.com/miltonkeynes

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

Pisces (19 February – 20 March) It is a wonderfully empowering time for anyone who will go within and see all the potential waiting to be born and brought forth into the light of day. This month has you taking a deeper look at the relationships in your life and you may find that some of these relationships have taken a toll on your energy and take notice of the people who have given to you freely. By embracing the truth embrace your own inner divinity and the essence of your spirit Favourable Dates : March 2, 8, 11, 17, 20, 26 Favourable Colours : Blue & Yellow

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Aries (21 March – 19 April) Your intuitive abilities will be in good form, and you would be wise to take a few moments to listen to warnings and advice from your ‘inner pool’ of wisdom and hope. Your success would come through a material conquest, a venture, a renovation project or a creative setup. This period may also signify an abundance of skills, courage and drive – all waiting to be channelised well. In a way, it may also indicate at delegating or seeking other experts' help and guidance to move ahead.

Favourable Dates : March 3, 9, 12, 18, 21, 27 Favourable Colours : Red & Blue Taurus (20 April – 20 May) This month pushes things forward quickly. You will feel like you can finally co- create without someone pushing you backwards. People will be more cooperative and business will flow more gracefully! New opportunities will present themselves to you and, without flaw you will find tasks easier to complete this month. So, whatever it is that you have been wanting to manifest, now is the time to do it. A steady and calm mental makeup will lead to triumph over adversity.

Favourable Dates : March 3, 6, 12, 15, 21, 24 Favourable Colours : Red & Green

Gemini (21 May – 20 June) This month financial matters get better. Your thoughts are expanding in a good way with more optimism as you see potentials unfolding. Look over investments or savings and any money you are not directly working for and see how you might strengthen it. This is also a good time for making connections with loved ones. Embrace the energy and allow the flow of your grace to manifest new relationships.

Favourable Dates : March 1, 2, 10, 11, 19, 20 Favourable Colours : White & Green Cancer (21 June – 22 July) Creative energies are quickly moving into your life this month and you will find yourself being drawn to art, gardening and music. Ideas will flow and your ability to communicate will be perfect. Enjoy the feelings of peace and serenity and take this energy forward. Relax and allow the Universe to bring you better things in your life. Your heart is wide open to help people out during this time period. Don’t be afraid to share your time and space with them.

Favourable Dates : March 1, 8, 10, 17, 19, 26 Favourable Colours : Red & White

Leo (23 July – 22 August) This month may seem like things are being blocked. You might not get the results you expect and obstruction or difficulty might come from superiors or people in authority. Don’t be frustrated, just work your way around problems and allow a bit of extra time and let go of the competitive nature within you. Connect with your heart and you will find the mind will easily clear away its restless behaviour Be easier on yourself and it will be easier to discern what is important and what isn’t. Favourable Dates : March 1, 5, 10, 14, 19, 23 Favourable Colours : Green & White

Virgo (23 August – 22 September) You may feel a bit overwhelmed this month as others want to put you in charge of things. It’s great to help them out but it’s also important to set boundaries. This is a great month for you to open your heart and connect with new friends. You will also encounter some interesting communication with people who you have not talked to and are coming to you for forgiveness.

This month brings many blessings to you as you find yourself moving into a time of clarity and freedom.

Favourable Dates : March 3, 5, 12, 14, 21, 23 Favourable Colours : Blue & White

Libra (23 September – 22 October) This month will be full off responsibility and you may find yourself flustered with the little things that really don’t matter.

Pay close attention to what those little things are teaching you and allow yourself to be inspired by the lessons. People are more likely to judge you and misunderstand your intent. It’s not worth losing close friendships. It is important to communicate clearly with people you are close to in order to avoid long term separation.

Favourable Dates : March 4, 5, 13, 14, 22, 23 Favourable Colours : Blue & Yellow Scorpio (23 October – 21 November) This month you work with radiance together with warmth for family relations and social contacts. You could be curious at an altogether unusual endeavour at your work place. This is an important time for you to find a better balance with friends old and new. You will find that people from your past will come back and want to talk. Your determination to succeed may become your greatest asset. Your intuitive insights and healing energies can be used positively to help others as well as yourself.

Favourable Dates : March 2, 4, 11, 13, 20, 22 Favourable Colours : White & Red

Sagittarius (22 November - 21 December) This month you feel the urge to pick things in your life. Friends will feel that your standards are way too high to live up to.

Those around you, siblings and people in your close environment are pulling your attention in their direction. It is a positive proactive time when you may bring together those near. You will feel confident this month in matters of the heart.

But take time to listen to what your partner says and allow yourself to find a deeper understanding of what sharing can do to enhance your life.

Favourable Dates : March 2, 5, 11, 14, 20, 23 Favourable Colours : White & Green Capricorn ( 22 December – 19 January) You have been working hard and not given yourself time to simplify and relax. Solar rays are infusing the area of your life that is about personal joy and how you seek to engage in personal fulfilment. This is a time to embrace faith, sit back and relax. Your organisational skills will be put to the test as the work-pace quickens after 17th February. Being grounded will help you to see life in a simple way.

Favourable Dates : March 2, 8, 11, 17, 20, 26 Favourable Colours : Blue & Yellow Aquarius (20 January – 18 February) This is a great time period for projects and co-workers will be open to what you have to share. Your ideas are flowing and it’s time to put them into motion. This month the mind will be jumping around and you may find it hard to quiet yourself.

This is a wonderful month to connect with your goals and move forward with them. Also, get in touch with your feelings because your partner will also be listening to what you have to say.

Favourable Dates : March 2, 8, 11, 17, 20, 26 Favourable Colours : Blue & Yellow

manishastroconsultant manish@manishastrologer.com

mar2016.qxp_Jan 2014 Aff 25/02/2016 11:52 Page 72

A quiet night in...

The Steel Kiss by Jeffery Deaver Master of suspense Jeffery Deaver returns with the latest gripping thriller featuring paraplegic forensic detective Lincoln Rhyme.

Technology is everywhere.

It makes our lives easier, our connections faster and journeys quicker.

But in the hands of someone smart enough, every piece of technology can be a murder weapon.

When an escalator gives way mid-chase, Amelia Sachs is forced to let a killer escape as she helps the man trapped in the depths.

Now Sachs and forensic detective Lincoln Rhyme must investigate if the collapse was a freak accident... or whether they are facing a murderer who knows exactly how fatal machines can be.

London Has Fallen

Terrorist plotters launch a deadly attack on the capital in this thrilling sequel to Olympus Has Fallen. Following the mysterious death of the British Prime Minister, heads of state gather in London for the funeral. This is all part of a plan by evildoers to take out world leaders. But they reckon without the US president (Aaron Eckhart), Secret Service agent Mike Banning (Gerard Butler) and a very determined MI6 agent (Charlotte Riley).

Release Date: 3rd March

Miss You Already Milly and Jess have been inseparable best friends since they first met as schoolgirls. The two women share everything with each other, until the day that their friendship is put to the test. When Milly finds out that she has breast cancer, she has trouble relating to Jess, who has finally conceived a child after struggling with infertility.

As Milly's life falls apart and Jess's life finally starts to improve, the women must decide whether their friendship is worth saving.

Release Date: 1st March 74

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AFFINITY LUXURY LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

FREE www.affinitymag.co.uk

March 2016

MARCH 2016 ISSUE 58