Affinity Magazine October 2011

October 2011

Black magic fashion Bathing beauties Fright night

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From corporate to kayak Your FREE Monthly Magazine

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

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Fright Night What makes a great Halloween Party?

Choose the mood, it should be dark and dreary but also something you will enjoy planning. Get everyone’s email address and send them a themed invitation – including things like an incentive to dress up, people say dressing up is only for kids until they experience it! Make a selection of costumes out of old clothes and bin bags and place them around the house or venue so people who don’t dress up can give it a go once the drink’s been flowing.

clear or orange Christmas lights up, or turn the lights into a spider’s web and add little plastic spiders and bugs. Make some props such as a stuffed pair of jeans and a shirt with a hat and a missing head makes a scary ‘dead man’. Use dry ice to make a boiling cauldron or a foggy effect (be very careful not to let the dry ice touch anyone) or even rent a fog machine.

Lighting With everything dimly lit it’s a good idea to have some reflective tape over the exits. A black bulb creates a good effect especially if you are dressed up. Ask friends if they have any old lights. If they do paint them orange, red or dark blue to help create the mood for your spooky theme.

Food is the most important aspect of any party, if you mess up everywhere else but have good food, people will still enjoy themselves. Set up a spooky dinner table, have a silver tray with a jelly brain mould on top, with props such as a ‘severed hand’ nearby! Set a monster dummy at the table about to eat the feast. Creepy!! Have bloody popcorn – put red food colouring mixed with butter on the popcorn. If you have punch, have it in a hollowed out pumpkin. Serve devilled eggs, but with green olives stuffed with pimentos to look like eyes. Just let you imagination run wild, once you get into the swing of it you’ll be amazed at what you can do.

Main Rooms Make sure the rooms in use carry your theme. In the bathroom place red food dye in half a bath of water (make sure this won’t stain) for the effect of a blood filled bath. Props such as fake bones and ghostly pictures can help towards the atmosphere. In your main party room, string

Entertainment You can hire professional entertainment, like choreographed Halloween dancers, palm readers, dead girl swing act, themed human tables and scary walkabouts. Most importantly enjoy yourself and don’t get too scared!

Sound effects Record scary sounds from the internet and copy them onto a CD, play this as guests arrive and randomly during the party.

4

are You

Cover image Model - Charlotte White Location - Clophill Church Dress - very.co.uk

!

Welcome

N

ow that the evenings are drawing in what better way to spend your time than curled up with the latest issue of Affinity.

There are lots of great places to visit this month, especially Middleton Hall in thecentre:mk where they will be hosting The Christmas Gift & Food Fayre from 13th to 16th October, there will be a host of gift ideas for every member of the family, plus a huge range of tasty seasonal food and wines to help you make this a memorable Yuletide.

Love it or hate it October is the month for Trick or Treat – check out our spooky treats on page and how to have a fantastic ‘Fright Night Party’ Barry Fry gives us his take on all the comings and goings in the transfer market.

Don’t forget to enter our competitions to win a reading with our resident psychic Sue, or if a quiet read is more your style why not try to win the latest book review book.

Finally, I would like to offer a warm welcome to Becks and Taryn they are joining the Affinity Advertising Team and will be only too happy to help with all your advertising needs – so make sure you give them a call.

Enjoy

Jane Ps. Follow us on Facebook and visit our website www.affinitymag.co.uk

Missing a Trick?

Affinity is an aspirational, luxury lifestyle magazine for Beds and Bucks. It features the best in homes and interiors, music and events, food and travel as well as interviews with celebrities and local personalities. Undeniably chic, and of a quality unrivalled in the area, Affinity is the perfect medium to target the affluent people in your area.

With copies distributed free in Bedford and the surrounding Beds, Bucks and Cambs villages, the average readership per issue being approximately 50,000, you can’t fail to get your business noticed.

Our digital online eMagazine and website visits are growing at a phenominal rate! As an advertiser it is important to know that not only will you be in a high-end publication with quality companies and editorial content, you will be seen by thousands of additional readers online.

It is vital that your reputation doesn’t disappear during the present economic climate. It's during these times that 'smart' advertising becomes imperative.

Advertising plays an important role during these times and should not be put on the backburner as a way to keep costs down. The ‘Credit Crunch’ doesn’t appear to be subsiding any time soon so it is absolutely critical that your business maintains its presence during these tough times.

Advertising your business does not necessarily mean spending a fortune and long term committment will always far outway a one-off advertisement placed here and there. A well planned consistent prescence will almost always pay off in the long run.

So don’t be left behind – for all your advertising needs please contact:

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

TheKeep COMING SOON KEMPSTON’S OWN

WEDDING SHOW – 2nd OCTOBER MANY LOCAL BUSINESSES WILL BE ON HAND TO HELP YOU PLAN YOUR SPECIAL DAY Christenings Birthdays Wedding receptions Anniversaries Parties of all types Memorial receptions Business conferences We have our own in-house bar and new catering facilities

Ask our bookings manager for details

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CONTENTS 8 18 27 34 44 51 56 60 62 64

Creepy Clophill Beat those Bugs In the pink Bathing Beauties Horse Talk Spooky Treats Beautiful Borneo Kayak Challenge Your Destiny What’s On For All Your Advertising Needs Contact: jane@affinitymag.co.uk 01234 215523 07809 499669

All adverts are printed in good faith.

Affinity cannot take responsibility for the content of adverts.

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

Reproduction in whole or in part is strictly prohibited.

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

Clophill Church Clophill Church is one of the most renowned haunted buildings in Britain. Shrouded with a dark past of murder, necromancy and failed demon cleansing, we attempt to find a ghost of our own in a place so dark, many would never dare step foot…………………………….Dare you?

S

t Mary's Church in Clophill is located in a small hamlet between Bedford and Luton. The abandoned Church is estimated to be up to 400 years old, but was replaced by a Victorian Church built in 1848 in the centre of the Village, rendering it obsolete.

bones were found laid out.

The site has been a fairground of paranormal activity and unwanted attention ever since and attracts visitors from far and wide looking for ghosts and other paranormal activity as well as attracting followers of the occult and Black Magic.

There has been a church on this site dating back to the 1300’s, allegedly being built on the site of a There are a number of reported ghostly Leper Hospital. During the 1800’s there were many sightings associated with the Church. Many improvements and plans to renovate and enlarge visitors report a chilly and oppressive the church were put together. These were then atmosphere even during warm days. It’s a very shelved in 1830 as the Rector involved became eerie place in daylight and much worse at night. very ill and died. The new Rector rebuilt the Church at the base of the hill in the village. The Some of the reports include: old site then became a Mortary Chapel as burials were still carried out here.

Watching a faint light moving up the hill and towards the ruins of the church before vanishing.

The old Church fell into disrepair and stories of Witchcraft, Satanism, and Black Magic became The ghost of a monk has been sighted, although associated with it. It is known as ‘Black Magic some paranormal investigators have also used Church’ by the locals. projections of a robed monk to scare curious teenagers away from the ruins.

In March 1963 the Tomb of an 18th Century Apothecary wife – Jenny Humberstore who A ghost of a lady in white haunts the spire. died in 1722 aged 22 was desecrated. Her bones were dug up and found in the Knave of A man of the cloth on horseback haunts the grave the Church laid out in a ritualistic fashion.The yard and lane, listen and you may hear a horse skull was found impaled on an iron spike and neighing. cockerel feathers were scattered nearby. In 1969 more graves were desecrated and again

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found a doll - with nails in its head and eyes, as I touched it I just had to let go as it felt so weird. We left shortly afterwards and headed back to the car. I looked up and out of nowhere a girl of about 5 years old appeared she was A vicar whose church it was is buried at the back in walking towards us staring. She reached the car the grounds and he still haunts the ruins trying to and stood near my window and then she started look after them. to wave slowly. We wouldn’t have thought this strange except she was wearing a lime green In the lane on the S bend a lady came off her dress and she had blonde curly hair - matching motorcycle and perished. Her spirit is still seen the doll we had just found!!! We had to get out of with her deathly last scream being heard very there and as we were leaving she still stared and clearly in the twilight hours. waved!!!!

The woods across the lane are alive with spirits.

Coincidence or not...we don’t know.....but it sure Try wandering through them at night time and was scary!!!” you will be centre of attention.............!!

A young girl and her dog haunts the north side area of the grounds and church as well as many more spirits in this area.

One couple told us – “We have visited Clophill many times as we only live a few miles away and if I was honest I would say that there is nothing eerie about the place, I think it’s all myths and we have not felt anything when we have been there.... except the other day we

These are just a few of the ghostly sightings, it is a very creepy place to visit, I suggest taking your camera and just snap away I think you’ll be surprised what comes out once you look at them!

Let me know………………………………….

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Heart Breakfast With

Stuart & Natalie

I

t’s been a busy time on Heart Breakfast, with Sesame Street’s Elmo giving Stuart tips on how to communicate with babies. We had Martin Clunes, now back on our screens as Doc Marten, tell us he thinks Lady Gaga would wear Doc Martins but Eddie Izzard more likely to wear Jimmy Choos! Another of Stuart’s dilemma’s ‘whether to get a fake tan’ was swiftly dealt with by King of the tan, Peter Andre. He told Stu to definitely get some ‘St Tropanitus and Hawaiian Tropicanitus going on’!

really care about the jokes, he just cares about the talent! .

Having recently attended the GQ Man of the Year awards 2011, we asked for some gossip.

Alex said she sat at the same table as the One Direction boys ‘I couldn’t believe the attention they were getting from older women. Speeches were being made and these mature women couldn’t keep their hands of them, I was shocked! Their fan base is unreal and it’s amazing to see so many people drawn to them’. Stuart tried to convince Alex that the name of One Directions next album is ‘We love the Cougar’ but she wasn’t having any of it.

We’ve just celebrated the opening of our new broadcast centre in Milton Keynes and as Natalie wanted to know she’s finished her birthday whether there was a Man of the celebrations we asked the Year in Alex’s life especially as gorgeous Alexandra Burke to she’d been very excited about come cut a ribbon and perform Usher, last time we’d met. ‘I love an intimate gig, for just 300 him and his talent and I really people at The Living Room. She was more than happy and loved our new studio so much she wants to come back ‘I know there’s gonna be a moment where I’m going to be presenting, hopefully with you guys.’ Watch this space! She told us about her favourite X Factor judge ‘It’s got to be Mr Gary Barlow, I don’t think he’s nasty what I love about him is that he’s The launch party that Alex Burke attended and blunt and straight to performed at, in Milton Keynes. Image curtesy of Matt Cross at Sequoia Grove Photography the point and doesn’t

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want to work with him one day.’

Alex quipped and ‘I was talking about on the red carpet - Shia Labeouf’ so there’s a few men it seems! Now if you’ve seen her perform recently you will know she’s been wearing big pants and Natalie wanted to know whether this was a message to us normal girls that we can show off our Bridget Jones pants. Alexandra said ‘All I’ll say is if you’ve got it flaunt it’!!

Beware!

We’ve just re launched our daily quiz, The Big Town Showdown where we’re looking for the cleverest town across Herts, Beds, Bucks, Northants and Milton Keynes and would love to get you to play. All the details of how you can register are on the breakfast pages along with all the best bits from the show so do go have a look and we’ll be back here in a month See you next month!

Stuart & Natalie Stuart and Natalie present Heart Breakfast every Monday–Friday at 6am-10am across Herts, Beds, Bucks, Northants and Milton Keynes on 96-104 FM, digital, and online at heart.co.uk

Affinity Magazineoctobermaster2011_Layout 1 copy 15/09/2011 16:02 Page 9

Treat Yourself

The Embankment team up with 5th Avenue Hair & Beauty Spa to offer a unique collection of luxury face, body and pamper packages just for you @ The Embankment.

TRY A NEW TREATMENT

Treatment Platter · Friends Who Lunch Soother & Snooze · Deli Board Delight

Facials Massage Manicures Pedicures Threading Waxing Tanning

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Open until 8pm in the evenings

Get Pampered at The Embankment

Affinity attended the launch of a new concept in beauty this month – ‘Therapy at The Embankment’.

The Embankment Hotel has teamed up with 5th Avenue Hair and Beauty in Howard Street to create a spa therapy centre at the hotel, where visitors and guests can come to be pampered.

Visitors can now enjoy a range of treatments in the new therapy suite, whether they are staying at the hotel or just visiting for the day, on offer is a unique collection of luxury face, body and pamper packages all delivered by highly trained therapists who are committed to delivering an excellent service infused with passion and enthusiasm.

Kerry Cash, who runs 5th Avenue, said: “It is great for us to be able to offer a different range of treatments to our clients so that there is always something new for them to try. And for our staff it is nice for them to be able to work somewhere different, clients can relax and unwind with a range of beauty treatments to make them feel good and look great.

Phone 5th Avenue Hair & Beauty Spa:

01234 341377 www.5thavenuespa.co.uk

For all therapy bookings www.embankmentbedford.co.uk

“We are really happy to be working with The Embankment and it is great that the two of us have been able to come up with something so that we can work together.”

The Therapy Club at The Embankment every Thursday and Friday from 10am-8pm.

To find out more call 01234 341377

Anti-Ageing Younger looking skin…

There are numerous factors that will help keep our skin looking younger for longer… Oily skin may be a pain, but believe it or not the natural oils will leave your skin ageing at a slower rate and can therefore result in your skin appearing more youthful for longer.

I

f you suffer with dry skin, it’s important to ensure you moisturise every morning and night in order to keep your skin supple and hydrated. Use a deep intensive moisturiser for night, giving it a good 8hrs (if you’re lucky enough to get your full recommended time snuggled up in bed) to replenish your skins tone, elasticity, fine lines and wrinkles.

wrinkles is sun exposure. Even in those crisp winter months, the sun can sometimes feel quite strong on our faces, despite us being wrapped up in our woollies.

Try using creams like Garnier Ambre Solaire or Boots Soltan every morning and you’ll notice the effects in the coming years. Sun exposure stimulates enzymes which break down collagen and elastin in your skin, which accelerates the ageing process. It’s important not to avoid the sun as it’s a vital source of Vitamin D, however, do try and avoid sitting out during the hottest parts of the day.

A highly rated product for this is Boots No7 Protect & Perfect Intense Beauty Serum (£21.00). With nothing but raving reviews and having used this product myself, I can confidently recommend this serum as the “One to buy”. With the colder months creeping in, it’s important we get to work on our skin, preparing it for those chilly winds. There’s nothing worse than having dry skin when the cold weather leaves you feeling chapped and sore!

This cream will not only help reduce fine lines and wrinkles, but will even out skin tone and texture. You’ll feel like you’ve shaved off a few years in a matter of weeks and all for a tiny price when compared to other high end creams available out there that will leave you as good as bankrupt!

Another range of products that have proven to reduce the signs of ageing is the simple beauty box must have, sun cream! One of the main factors that find us developing fine lines and

Anti-Ageing Hint: Full Brows Another trick to keep you looking younger for longer is full eyebrows!

So easily forgotten about, but full, carefully shaped eyebrows can help you to appear younger than your years. The days of drawing on your eyebrows with a single arched line have long gone and unfortunately because of this past fashion, so many of you have lost the ability to be able to grow your brows back, however, for those of you who still can, DO! Even when fashioning these beautifully full 12

brows, you can enhance their shape and colour using the amazing HD Brows palette. A trusty product in my kit, used on EVERY client and shoot I work on. It stays put all day and leaves a soft natural shade throughout your eyebrow.

Strong eyebrows have been a HUGE hit on the catwalks for a number of seasons now, so jump on the bandwagon and get growing!

HINT: It’s always best to use light reflective products when your skin is at its clearest. There’s nothing worse than drawing highlighter attention to blemishes and acne!

Rimmel Recover Foundation, £7.19 Rimmels Recover Foundation is an illuminating anti-fatigue foundation, helping the appearance of tired looking skin by plumping and replenishing your complexion.

Its light reflecting pigments leave you looking radiant, and packed with Vitamins C & E it’s perfect for those days after the night before!

Nivea Visage Natural Beauty Radiance Boosting Moisturiser, £6.99 This moisturiser can help with your make up free days. We all have them; sometimes more times than not, but never again will you need to turn to the brown paper bag when nipping to the shops!

Mac Strobe Cream, £12 The beauty of this super quick-fix cream is not only that it can be used both on its own as well as mixed in with your favourite foundation, but it is packed

AW11/12 Beauty Trend: The bare glow

with vitamins and anti-oxidant ingredients.

Leaving what was once tired, dull and stressed skin, now bright, fresh and ready for the day ahead.

Just because Summer has passed us by in nothing more than a quick flash, there’s nothing stopping you from letting the glow live on.

Getting that dewy look, doesn’t have to be saved for the Summer months. There are so many products out there now that use light reflecting pigments to brighten your skins appearance. One of the AW11/12 beauty trends is barely there makeup, so here are a few products that can help with creating this look.

Sabina Ventriglia www.sabinaventriglia.co.uk sabinav@hotmail.co.uk 13

Chloe’s Beauty & Relaxation Haven Beauty

by

Chloe

&

Relaxation

B

by

J’adore

eauty by Chloe and Relaxation by J’adore is somewhere to go where it’s pure relaxation, no hustle and bustle of life, just the calming music playing softly in the background, you can be forgiven for thinking you are in the middle of nowhere. So you will be surprised to know this haven of tranquillity is in the middle of Bedford just on the outskirts of the town centre down St Andrews Road, there is ample on site parking so no stressing before you arrive that you can’t find a parking space!

oils that can be used with any of the J’adore massage treatments.

As you enter the building hidden behind its own gates you walk into a world of peace and relaxation with the calming music, the modern airy building and the friendly welcome all adds to your very own pampering experience.

You could spend a whole day at this place have your nails done add a facial and then for the ultimate in relaxation finish off with one of the J’adore treatments such as an Aromatherapy massage, Reflex Reiki Zone Treatment or an Indian Head massage to name but a few – go on what are you waiting for we all need a little pampering!

Whether it’s a beauty treatment you’re after from Chloe or a more specialist relaxation massage from J’adore such as ‘The Infra Red heat treatment’ (this helps with any injuries you have, muscle strains, back ache, rheumatism and for us ladies something we always worry about……… cellulite!! ) then this is the treatment for you.

Not only that, if you have somewhere special to go and I know at this time of year we will soon be looking at Christmas parties, Charity balls etc, we sometimes need to get rid of a couple of inches so we can look ‘The Belle of the Ball’ in THAT dress!!

If that’s the case then the universal contour wrap is another treatment on offer, it guarantees inch loss and just to see if it does what it says on the tin I will be trying it out for myself next month!

Chloe’s also offer 100% vegan approved products for manicures and pedicures as well as essential

Chloe moved to the premises a little over a year ago offering Beauty Treatments such as waxing, facials, manicures, pedicures, body scrubs, spray tanning, acrylic nails and much more she uses only the best products such as Dermalogica, Spa ritual and St Tropez. Donna joined her a little while later with J’adore which offers Therapeutic treatments to help relax the body and mind.

Chloe’s Beauty and Relaxation – Beauty by Chloe and Relaxation by J’adore , 34 St Andrews Road, Bedford, MK40 2LW – 01234 328288

Beauty By Chloe Relaxation By J’adore

All age abilities s & welcom e

This months offers:

A HIP ANCE IN PART Mon-Oln D A N N e WA TAKE Tue-Harr y-6pm D N A W IP o E H ld R S C N P IO HO Wed-Ru -4.30pm MP shd LD CHA T IN WOR ITIONS OR JUS Thur-Bromham-4 en-7pm .3 T ?

E P N F ri U M -S harnbroo 0 & 5.30pm CO FOR F k-5, 6 & DANCE N 7pm R A E L Tel: 07710 478 118 Email: Dancevybz@aol.com www.Dancevybz.com

‘Capture that Magical Moment and Treasure it for a Lifetime’ 07867807813 fiona@fionalouisephotography.co.uk www.fionalouisephotography.co.uk

Universal Contour Inch Loss Wrap only £40.00

45min Dermalogica Facial & 30min Aromatherapy Back Massage only £40.00

Free Facial Massage with all Aromatherapy Massages

All beauty and relaxation treatments offered & Gift vouchers available.

Disabled access and free off road parking Tel: 01234 328 288 www.chloesoames.co.uk Chloe’s Beauty & Relaxation, 34 St Andrews Road, Bedford, MK40 2LW

• Power Plate • Personal Training • Nutritional Advice

• Boxing Pad Work • Pre & Post Natal Training

Holl Fitness Studio is a private personal training studio situated in Woodlands Park, Bedford.

To book your complimentary personal training session please contact Julie on 07808 739651 or jules@hollgroup.com

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Try our take away service, available 5.30 - 11.00 Offer valid till the

69 Tavistock Street Bedford MK40 2RR end of October info@indiansummerbedford.co.uk 2011. Weekdays www.indiansummerbedford.co.uk Sun- Thur facebook.com/indiansummerbedford Food only

Strength

and vitality

I always get really excited when new fitness products are introduced to the market. I wait with anticipation to find out whether they really are as good as they claim to be. Sadly not all the claims are true for the majority of the products but every now and then a real gem appears and lives up to all the hype. his month I’m going to share with you two of my favourite pieces of fitness equipment, next month I’ll share with you a third.

travel or those who can’t always get to a gym.

T

Your TRX workout will consist of lots of total body exercises that will strengthen, shape and tone your muscles but will also help increase flexibility and improve core stability and strength. From the absolute beginner to the professional athlete you will find levels to suit all. The TRX is being used by major sports teams, such as Liverpool FC, Manchester City FC and numerous US National Football League teams. It is also used by physiotherapists and sports therapists around the world to condition, rehabilitate and strengthen their players and clients.

For my clients and for my own workouts I like equipment that requires you to MOVE rather than exercises that are fairly stationary. I’ve always believed that your gym workout should replicate life and the movements you make on a daily basis, whether that be picking up your children or grandchildren or playing squash or golf. Our bodies are designed to move so the first two pieces of equipment I’m going to introduce you to do exactly that - make you MOVE! TRX The TRX Suspension Trainer was created and developed by Randy Hetrick, a US Navy SEAL which instantly makes you think it’s going to be a grueling workout, but that’s not true. The TRX was an invention of necessity; in warehouses, inside submarines, on board ships, Randy and his fellow Navy SEAL team mates needed to stay in peak condition with limited space and very limited equipment so one parachute and a few belt buckles later - the TRX was born!

I’ve been using the TRX now for 4 years, both in my own workout and with my training clients. I even used it throughout my pregnancy as I could adapt the intensity of the sessions as I needed to.

Each time I do a workout I find even more ways to challenge the human body using the TRX and I feel like I’ve only just touched the surface. The opportunities are literally endless.

Visit www.trxtraining.com to see the TRX in action.

ViPR The ViPR is simply a long rubber tube with handles varying in weight from 4kg up to 20kg. It is the simplicity that makes this tool so special.

ViPR stands for: Vi = Vitality, P = Performance, R = Reconditioning

The six foot long straps can be attached to a hook on the ceiling or wrapped around a tree so it’s the ultimate ‘anywhere, anytime workout’. It fits in a small carry bag so can easily fit in a suitcase and there is no need for any other equipment to use with it - your body is your machine! This makes it the ideal piece of equipment for people who

16

Michol Dalcourt, the creator of the ViPR, is a lecturer at the University of San Francisco on Human Movement and Performance Training so has an enormous amount of experience and knowledge on how the body moves and why it moves in such a way. He has applied this knowledge to the ViPR, which is what makes it such a great tool to include in your workout.

so can be used for any level exerciser with any goal in mind. It can be thrown, flipped, lifted, pushed, carried, rolled and dragged in all different directions which simulates real life movements. I have clients in there sixties and seventies using the ViPR as well as a triathlete, a long distance cyclist and a water-skier. Their programs differ hugely but the movement patterns are all easily achieved with this simple tool.

Although the ViPR is fairly new to the fitness industry it is already making appearances in the training rooms of many sports teams such as London Irish RUC and Esher RUC and no doubt we will see it entering the English Football Premiership very soon.

In day to day life we move forwards, backwards, sideway and we turn, so by using the ViPR we can train in these different directions to make us ‘fit for life’. This is the complete opposite to the machines you see in the gym that are very stationary and only move in one direction. The ViPR has the ability to load muscles in a way that you can’t normally achieve with traditional weight machines.

For more information on the ViPR visit www.viprfit.com.

The ViPR is known to reduce injuries and improve movement which in turn reduces the normal aches and pains we deal with on a day to day basis such as back pain, restless legs and knee pains.

Next month I will be sharing some information on the Power Plate and Vibration Training

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Julie Holl 07808 739651 www.julieholl.co.uk

beat those

Bugs I

n the past we would have harvested rosehips and Elderberry’s both of which are rich in vitamin C and chemical compounds which build our immunity to protect against bacterial and viral infections, and make them into syrups and jams. These would have been eaten in late summer and early autumn to prepare for the winter and to ward off colds and flu.

It is not too late to strengthen our body’s defences, which will both help to prevent catching coughs and colds and also to recover from them much faster if we do go down with anything.

As a Naturopath and Herbalist, I would like to share some of nature’s secrets with you.

Enchinacea (Enchinacea purpurea) is one of the best known immune boosters. An herbalist will very likely use this herb as part of a formula to boost immunity, as it works by increasing the white blood cells. This is just one of the functions of the immune system, which both protects against and fights infections.

Elderberry (Sambuca nigra) is another wonderful herb for both boosting the body’s defences and treating an ongoing infection.

Elderberries are particularly rich in vitamin C and also have chemical compounds which help to prevent catching a cold and shorten its length.

Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) is known as a tonic for the lungs and has both anti-bacterial and antiviral properties. It is used to treat sore throats and dry coughs. This can be taken as a tea, used as

Autumn has really arrived.

With the drop in temperature, the cold and damp this is the time when those first niggling sniffles, sneezes and irritating coughs that are hard to shake off begin to appear.

a gargle or taken in a tincture and added to our diet.

All of these herbs can be taken in a formula, in a low dose as protection and an immune boost, or in higher doses to actually treat coughs and colds.

A formula of several herbs is generally given, as herbs tend to work in synergy with one another and thus the whole formula is greater.

Supplements 500mg daily buffered low acidity Vitamin C Zinc and Selenium. A handful of pumpkin seeds and three Brazil nuts a day will do the trick.

Diet Eat hot food and include: Red grapes, spinach, beetroot and pomegranate to build the blood.

Reduce dairy as it’s cold and mucous-forming Massage Massage is fantastic for improving health and immunity but the addition of some oils such as Eucalyptus, lemon, juniper, and cypress will really boost its effectiveness.

Carolyn Wood-Herbalist and Naturopath 07944886502

HEALTH TIP OF THE MONTH In Ayurveda, sesame oil is used in the nostrils to prevent bacteria and viruses being inhaled and infecting the lungs. If you commute, use public transport or are taking a flight, dip your ring finger in pure sesame oil and wipe around the inside of each nostril just before travelling.

A Brighter, Whiter Smile in just 1 Hour?

I

n recent years, teeth whitening has become a huge phenomenon. A whiter, brighter smile is one of the first things that people notice about your appearance. It’s no mystery that whiter teeth make us look better, younger, more attractive and more confident. This is why men and women of all ages are now opting for teeth whitening systems to improve their smile.

Although whitening is very popular, many people are still clueless about the wide array of different products and procedures that are now available.

Today, there are hundreds of products that all claim to give you whiter teeth in a very short time.

But results can range from impressive to disappointing, or even non-existent (if you’ve selected a fraudulent product) so I decided to find out for myself what all the hype was about!

My experience started with Rebecca from ‘Advanced Teeth Whitening’ coming to my home, she set up her therapists couch and ran through the procedure which all seemed straightforward, she was friendly and made me feel at ease straight away.

Before

After

I then had to lie on the couch and put on some very attractive goggles!! The procedure then consisted of three twenty minute treatments. the gel was applied to my teeth and then a UV light was used to activate the gel for twenty minutes, this same treatment was then repeated twice more. After the final twenty minutes I rinsed my mouth out thoroughly with water and if by magic you are meant to have a whiter brighter smile – and I have to say I certainly did!! On average you go 5 to 14 shades lighter and I went 10 shades which is very impressive – so now I can go and dazzle everyone with my smile!!

Rebecca charges £99 for this treatment which is extremely good value and if you want you can purchase an after care kit for £39 (most dentists charge £199 for this) I was very dubious before the treatment but now I have to say I am converted – why not see for yourself and contact Rebecca on: Rebecca@advancedteeth.co.uk 07960 940206

F a s h i o n

fall or

Republic

elcome to Autumn! As far as the shops are concerned, it’s been Autumn since about August, for some, even July; their summer ranges were replaced with heavier, darker clothes whilst we were all still shopping for holiday clothes!

W

Colour blocking, pencil skirts TK Maxx

Ladylike dresses: nothing is more ladylike than pleats Warehouse hat £25 jumper £60 SKIRT £60

what YOU like, what suits you and fits you and your life. Pick the best bits from what’s on offer and mix and match with the clothes that you already own.

Look at your summer clothes and see how you can wear them in colder temperatures; add layers underneath with tights, thin long sleeved tops, shirts; or add jackets This time of year is the biggest or cardigans on top, and get more for new ranges and designs in the wear out of them. Don’t assume fashion calendar, although, to be that because you bought honest, each year it just seems to me to be a regurgitation of styles something in thespring/summer that you can’t wear it in the we’ve seen over and over before. autumn or winter; just get The 1940’s, 50’s, 60’s and 70’s all imaginative. Add boots to appear to be represented; as well as floaty maxis, or a leather lady like, floral, colour blocking, jacket to tea dresses and add metrosexual....and on it goes. longevity to your clothes.

As always, your best bet is to wear Here’s some ideas...

20

Jackets and more jackets TK Maxx

Add knits and tights to sheer fabrics and get more use out of summer clothes turban £7, feather clip fascinator £8, sunray metallic dress £22, stiletto court shoe £12

A dress you could wear all year round, in a beautiful colour M&Co boutique tab neck dress £70

Add leather jackets to maxis and add some edge Warehouse

greenandbrown www.greenandbrown.eu, 0800 9545279

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man of the month

John-Paul Lee Age: 28 Occupation: General Manager Fitness First Bedford Resides: Hertfordshire

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

I would of loved to have been a professional footballer or tennis player! Unfortunately I was not quite at the level needed for both of those sports but you can still enjoy playing at any level.

Describe yourself in 3 words?

Energetic, passionate, honest!

Most extravagant purchase and why?

BMW Z4 Convertible! I bought this on my 25th Birthday...I think every guy when they’re young wants a nice sports car at some point in their life but unfortunately I sold this a while ago due to having a company car now.

What would you do if you won the lottery?

I would possibly live abroad somewhere hot but not too far somewhere like Spain as I have many friends that have moved there for work and I would also look to start up my own business.

Your top 3 movies?

Shawshank Redemption, Goodfellas, Inception.

What do you love most about your job?

I love the fact that I work in a very social environment and my day at work is never the same - When you work in a health club environment you are sorrounded by people with lots of energy and you can feed of that which is fantastic!

What's your favourite shop locally?

Nando's - Nice healthy food, the perfect post workout meal!

Where do you see yourself in ten years?

I would like to be at Director level of a leading health club chain or possibly be running my own business...

What makes you stand out in crowd?

I like to think I am very passionate about anything I do and this gives me a good energy which I hope others can feed off. I also have been known to be a very honest person and that includes what I think of people or in getting my opinion across - this makes me stand out as I believe honesty is the best policy!

Best holiday destination and why?

Las Vegas! I have been 3 times now and it is the most fun you can have anywhere!

Describe your ideal woman?

Needs a good sense of humour, someone with good energy and who is positive about life as it is important to have people you can bounce off! Not literally lol !!

23

John-Paul can be contacted at: Fitness First, Aspects Leisure Park, Bedford, 01234 763930, www.fitnessfirst.com

Body Bronze Tanning Salon ALON ING S

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Semi Permanent Make-Up

Creative Beauty

At Creative Beauty my aim is to ensure all of my clients leave feeling fantastic and looking their absolute best. Semi-permanent make-up is the perfect way to accentuate natural beauty and removes the need to worry about touch ups during your day.

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Body Bronze

Tattoo removal for body tattoos and permanent cosmetics e-raze tattoo removal utilises a specially designed inorganic chemical remover developed by Rejuvi Laboratory California which is applied in the same method as the original tattoo, it's designed to draw the tattoo pigment out of the skin, removing the unwanted tattoo.

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Call us on: 07971 456636 www.creativebeautybedford.co.uk

Bare Beauty

Tue & Wed 10am - 6pm Thu & Fri 12pm - 7.30pm Sat 10am - 4pm

Anita & Jaz at Bare Beauty invite you to a truly indulgent experience. We offer treatments for both men and women in a very professional, yet relaxed atmospherewhere. The therapists are fully knowledgeable and approachable.

We pride ourselves in listening to customer’s needs and tailoring treatments to suit the individual.

Vouchers are available all year round for that special occassion, specialist packages including girls’ parties, wedding packages and ladies day out pampering.

Bare Beauty Tel: 01234 360575 Millfield House, Miller Rd, Bedford, MK42 9NZ

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N o v e l t y

Can Can Glitz Fashion Scarf Yarn Only £9.95 A Ball

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Or Pay Only £8.95 Online at Wonderwool!

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Phone 01234 824983 info@tudorrosepatchwork.co.uk Oakley Park, Station Road, Oakley MK43 7RB Buy online at: http://www.wonderwool.co.uk

http://www.tudorrosepatchwork.co.uk

H

ow often have you had a quick look at the novelty yarns in a threadcraft shop and thought to yourself “Hey, that looks interesting ...” before moving on to find that baby wool for the latest arrival or something to knit yourself a jumper with? Well, I would suggest that perhaps it might repay you to inspect these novelties a little more closely. They’re fun, and you can produce interesting results with them. Quite quickly, too!

Yarn manufacturers are starting to do some very novel things with yarn, very novel indeed……It may be that the technology to make these new yarns is only just now available – or maybe they’ve just begun hiring designers with some imagination. Who knows? But the result is that the variety and scope of these products is increasing rapidly.

It’s also interesting to note that it’s the German manufacturers such as Grundl and Rico which are

setting the bar at ever greater heights every season. Sometimes it’s an increase in the varieties of some kinds of yarn. Grundl’s Karibik or Chicago products are examples of this.

However, over the past couple of seasons Rico have produced two completely new (and novel) product lines, Can Can and Loopy. Now, these really stretch the definition of “yarn” beyond what many would consider to be breaking point. It’s more like knitting with netting than knitting with yarn!

Being creative with products like Loopy or Can Can is quick and easy. Even an inexperienced knitter can produce a fashionable scarf or boa in a few hours or in a day at most. So why not have another look at these novel novelty yarns?

For more information contact: Tudor Rose Patchwork 01234 824983 www.tudorrosepatchwork.co.uk

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Elemis Think beauty kit £29.90, £10.000 total pledge to breast cancer care www.timetospa.co.uk Dorothy Perkins wristband £2 all proceeds to Breast Cancer Care www.dorothyperkins.co.uk

in the Highland Spring Handbag size ‘Hint of Pink’ 6 pack £1.89 - 10p donation

pink

Every year more than 50,000 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer. With this in mind, why not splash the cash in Breast Cancer Awareness month, buy one of these products and see the proceeds go to breast cancer support charities.....

Swarovski Breast Cancer Care ribbon Charm £38 £15 donation Available from 3rd Ocober

Tickled Pink Slipper Boots £8 - £1 donation Asda Stores

Opi Essentials In The Pink £18.93 All proceeds to Breast Cancer Care

Invicta Angel Messenger watch £35.44 All net proceeds to Breast Cancer Care www.qvcuk.com

27

Taquin drop earrings, accessorize, £12

Black

Magic Be DARK, Daring and DRAMATIC with an ALL BLACK colour scheme

Belt, Asos.com

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Shot on locatiomn at The Barns Hotel, Bedford Feather owl pendant, accessorize, £12

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Concertina lock bag, accessorize, £28

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4 Faux fur Rocha John Rocha hat, Debenhams, £16

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Betty Jackson Boots, Debenhams, £75

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5

On the

Couch Surviving SAD Times

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come evening time, you leave work in the dark.

Blink and you can feel like you have missed the day!

nyone affected by Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD syndrome) will know that this depressive disorder seems to be exacerbated by the lack of daylight which we all experience during the winter months. It can feel as if this time of year will never end and it’s enough to send sufferers scurrying to bed with a hot water bottle, a warm drink and a pile of good books!

Genetics can also play a part – some people are just more prone to feeling blue (you can thank your parents for that!). While some of our friends in the animal kingdom can hibernate during the winter months, regrettably we don’t have that option!

There are a wide range of symptoms which include depression, mood swings, irritability, lethargy, cravings for sweet foods and a general feeling of being ‘down in the dumps’. For some people the effect can even stretch throughout the autumn, winter and spring.

So what can you do?

Diet As ever, diet is one of the first aspects to consider.

The obvious things to avoid are stimulants such as tea, coffee and caffeinated drinks as these can put your adrenal glands under stress. (Your adrenal glands are your friends! They help you cope with stress so if they are under stress themselves they won’t be able to help you! Try not to abuse them!) Sugary foods and drinks and refined foods are of limited benefit as they contain very little nutritional value.

The exact cause is not known but lack of sunlight is a likely contributory factor. During the winter months, when the days are shorter, you travel to work in the dark. At lunchtime you don’t fancy leaving the comfort of your warm, artificially-lit office to venture out into the wind and rain, risking taking off ‘Mary Poppins’ style down the road as you wrestle with your umbrella. Then,

30

Foods to add to your diet are fish (rich in omega 3 essential fatty acids) or, for the vegetarians and vegans amongst you, linseeds. Avocados, beans, bananas, wheat germ, porridge oats, brown rice and wholemeal pasta are foods that help to increase serotonin, the brain chemical that makes you feel happy. Water and noncaffeinated drinks such as herb teas can help to keep you hydrated. (Just as important in the winter as in the summer!)

Full Spectrum Light Therapy One interesting therapy is full spectrum light therapy, designed to replicate natural sunlight, which has been used to treat SAD syndrome with good results. As well as light boxes and visors there are also bodyclocks.

These work by using your body’s natural response to sunrise and sunset to help synchronise your sleep/wake pattern. Each morning the light comes on very slowly (imitating sunrise) so your body responds to the increased light levels around you, subconsciously, and you wake up feeling refreshed. The lights can be expensive but may be worth a try. Visit www.outsidein.co.uk to learn more about what’s available.

Vitamin D is an important nutrient to take, as levels can drop during the winter months.

Most of our vitamin D is produced in the body by the action of sunlight on the skin.

(So let’s face it, you aren’t going to get much in a typical British summer, let alone during the winter months!)

Exercise is vital too As mad as it may sound, going for a bracing walk in wild winter weather can literally ‘blow the cobwebs away!’ If the wind is whipping up a storm it will certainly oxygenate you! And exercise produces endorphins – those wonderful chemicals that make you feel good. www.lumie.com

Herbs can help Nature also has a lot to offer. Hypericum (St John’s Wort) is well known for its mood-lifting properties. 15 drops (0.6ml) of tincture two to three times a day can help you cope with the bleak mid-winter. Start taking it a few weeks before SAD syndrome usually starts to get a grip on you to allow it time to begin working.

Remember to check with a healthcare professional before using Hypericum if you are taking prescribed medication.

Avena sativa (oats) is a plant rich in the B vitamins that are essential for a healthy nervous system. The Scots, with their long dark winter days, have long counteracted the negative feelings with a plate of porridge each morning! It is a wonderful tonic for the nerves and has a calming and restorative effect.

You can find these two herbs combined in an effective complex. Taking 20 drops twice a day can be a real boost to SAD sufferers.

Passiflora is a wonderful herb that has been described as a ‘hug in a bottle’. Its gentle sedative action on the central nervous system helps to alleviate nervous tension, depression and anxiety.

So you see, you don’t have to feel blue during the winter months. Just try some of these tips and you could be feeling in the pink again!

31

Have a Ghoulish Halloween with Drinkstuff Awaken your inner devil this Halloween and serve up a ‘poisoned’ cocktail with Drinkstuff’s fantastic new range of ghastly and ghoulish skull shaped barware.

The Spirit Head Decanter revives the ancient tradition of drinking from a skull head with the belief it gave you their power. While drinking from your enemy’s skull is no longer the done thing this skull shaped glass decanter offers a more sophisticated alternative, giving you the power of your favourite spirit or liqueur instead, and is sure to have all the ghouls clamouring to party with you.

For the spookiest Halloween party on the block, the crystal grey acrylic range is a sure fire winner for awakening the dead. The Acrylic Skull Goblet is perfect for serving up a bloody cocktail from the matching Acrylic Skull Pitcher, to help restore the living dead from their slumbers. And if you find a chill running down your spine, be sure to warm up with a brew of your favourite beer in the Acrylic Skull Mug. Acrylic Skull Goblet, £3.99 Acrylic Skull Pitcher, £9.99 Spirit Head Decanter, £10.95 www.drinkstuff.com

Best of the Web This Month – Online Music

Play – www.play.com

As the internet continues to romp onwards changing the way we live our daily lives, from shopping, working, dating and even ordering food; we take a look at the best places to find the music you want to hear, without even having to trudge down to your local Woolworths in the rain.

If you’re just looking for somewhere to download almost any charted album or single then play.com is perfect, a huge library of music with free postage or download sits alongside a great range of DVD’s, gadgets and gizmos.

Spotify – www.spotify.com

Itunes – www.apple.com/itunes

Spotify really is something to shout about, if you don’t use it already then your life is about to become a little brighter all round. Simply search the huge library of music, queue your favourite tracks and sit back and enjoy. The free version will throw an advert in between every other track but for £10 a month you can go premium, no adverts, no download limits and access to all the music you ever wanted.

Of course you will need the mandatory Apple kit to go with iTunes, at a minimum iTunes player for your PC and an iPod if you want to groove on the move, but once you have this in place iTunes is a great tool for finding, managing and of course purchasing your favourite music. iTunes also features some nice little tricks such as completing albums for you and suggesting other music you may like, both helpful but be careful you can end up spending a fortune.

Soundcloud – www.soundcloud.com

MySpace –www.myspace.com

The beautifully elegant Soundcloud has been steadily growing for a few years now and rapidly becoming the place to discover new music. Soundcloud is a great site for anyone to upload their own music and really grow a fanbase with some nifty little tricks taken from the likes of Facebook and co. Fans can follow bands progress, write comments against precise points of each and recommend other bands and artists.

Did somebody mention mySpace? Yep, still alive and kicking but losing more users a month than you can shake a stick at but still a great place to find new acts, niche music and plenty of up and coming stuff on the cusp of breaking through.

Leigh Millard, Banilla Web Applications www.banilla.co.uk

32

Fry’s footie corner

O

unemployed. This is because clubs are cutting their squads and are trying to act responsibly with their finances. Most clubs are owned by individuals with successful businesses, but these individuals are struggling themselves, so there is no spare cash to invest into their clubs. Even the TV deal negotiated by the Football League which commences next season, is 26% down.

n August 31st, the transfer window closed and during that period of business, an incredible £500 million was spent by clubs, which is an obscene amount of money considering the state of the world financially. It led to a lot of the top clubs spending vast fortunes in trying to resurrect their bad start to the season or their quest for trophies at the end of the season.

For a Championship club, that will mean they will have £800,000 less than their income this year. In my opinion, football is in crisis and unless the clubs and the league take responsibility to pull our belt in and stop trying to keep up with the Joneses or clubs will face the prospect of going out of business and this will be bad for communities throughout the country

We saw Arsenal completely change their policy and sign experienced players and put them on four year contracts, which they hadn’t done before. Even when Dennis Bergkamp was at the club he was on a rolling deal so the closure of the transfer deadline led to clubs making rash signings and in same cases, their whole policy changed.

Obviously the majority of this money was spent by the Premier League and I think the Football League is beginning to realise what big problems lie ahead. Despite the transfer window closing, there are still 330 professional footballers who have been unable to find clubs. As 72 football league clubs address the money crisis in football where attendances are down, commercial revenue is down, sponsorship is down, players wages exceeding to ridiculous proportions, the 72 owners have got to put in place a strategy that makes sure their club is still in existence.

A lot of common sense and hard talking will need to be done to maintain these 72 football league clubs and that talking needs to be done now!

You will find at the end of this season there will be twice as many as the 330 players currently

Barry Fry

Until next month.....

33

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39

appeal

Steps to

Success

Most parents will unashamedly admit that they want their children to do well at school and reach their full potential. Many will make considerable sacrifices in order to help their children achieve educationally. This may involve paying for private education at the cost of family holidays, or other luxuries. For others it may involve considerable sacrifice in terms of time, many parents spending long hours helping with homework or even providing additional ‘homework’ themselves.

M

any schools are happy to provide additional work for children and some parents clamor for this, while others feel that they don’t want to be teacher as well as parent.

The approaches to learning and the attitudes of parents to education are as many and varied as individuals themselves.

For all families though it is important that parents maintain a good dialogue with the school and if they notice their child is falling behind, that is the time to begin to take action. We live in a culture of assessment, indeed many teachers and parents would argue there is too much

assessment within schools, but one of the benefits is that parents and teachers can measure the progress a child is making against the national targets.

When a child falls behind in any subject a downward spiral can occur in their attitude to learning. Try putting yourself in their position – you find something hard to understand so often you avoid it, then if the class is moving on often the next lesson will be even tougher so children just ‘switch off’.

Their confidence takes a bashing and then they are even less likely to ‘engage’ with the learning preferring to believe that they are hopeless and they’ll never understand.

40

If the problems they experience are with reading and spelling this cycle is even more acute as reading and spelling are needed in almost every subject, so many children can become disenchanted with school and learning all together. Similarly with Maths if the problems are with the basic processes then as it is a hierarchical subject this may prevent them developing other skills as they progress through the Maths curriculum as mathematical skills are needed in science and design technology as well as many other subjects.

There are lots of ways that all parents can support children with their education and a few hints and tips are listed below.

Ways to support your child with their learning Show an interest in their learning by asking what they are doing in different subjects Make sure you see a copy of their timetable regularly Ask if they have homework or check their homework diary If they say they did homework in class then make a point of asking them to show you what they have done Make sure you know what they are working towards – schools are usually very happy to have your support and school reports will often list targets Ask your child questions – getting them to explain something to you is a good way to see if they understand something Make sure they have a place to do homework that is relatively free from distractions but

Benefits of tuition Sessions can be tailored to the individual needs so they don’t spend ages going over things they understand then skim over things they find difficult They can ask questions without worrying about what classmates may think Questions are answered immediately – no need to sit with a hand up waiting for a teachers attention Feedback is immediate – so if they make mistakes these can be rectified then and there

unless they are old enough to be independent learners it’s good if it can be somewhere where they can ask for your help if needed Always offer help if needed but make sure you don’t end up doing it for them Give lots of positive messages about school and homework – if you think it doesn’t matter it will be hard to motivate your children Remember that children, especially young children need short bursts of concentration and plenty of time to relax and play when they come home from school Try to make sure that homework is associated with something fun – maybe learning some spellings then having a favourite story read or playing a game for example

As they make progress confidence increases and this often means they will develop a more positive attitude to learning and school.

Most students actually enjoy the sessions in many ways it is a treat having someone’s undivided attention for a time The fact that parents are prepared to pay for this can be a powerful message for the student that education is important and that their achievement is important to their parents.

There are also a growing number of parents who are prepared to pay for some private tuition for their child to either prevent a child falling behind or give them a boost with their learning. It is often a lot easier for busy parents to pass this responsibility to a professional, particularly for key subject areas like English and Maths and many students respond more positively when it isn’t mum or dad trying to do the teaching. The benefits of tuition have been recognised in recent years by the government who instituted a scheme of one to one tuition within schools to help children who were not making progress. Sadly budget cuts mean this may now disappear in many areas.

Thankfully there are many individuals and companies that provide private tuition and although it can seem costly (often £30 - £35 an hour depending on the subject and level) the benefits can be immense. Sometimes just a few hours are all that are needed, particularly if offered before a child falls significantly behind and looses all confidence in their own ability.

For further advice and support contact: 07921193479 info@attunededucation.com www.attunededucation.com 41

Presidents Welcome

I’m delighted to take on the role of President for Bedfordshire Business Women and extend a warm welcome to present, new members and future guests.

Having spent 21 years in the hair & beauty industry I understand keeping your business fresh and expanding your client base is crucial to stay ahead. Having creative ideas and meeting new women at BBW has helped me grow my business. I’ve owned 5th Avenue Hair & Beauty Spa for nearly 14 years and employ a wonderful team of talented experts. We work hard to create a warm, exciting and welcoming atmosphere. I hope to replicate this at BBW during my presidential year.

Meeting new friends at BBW over the last 3 years has helped me have an award winning business.

Winner of Adult Achiever in 2009, winner of Customer Excellence in 2010 and winner of Champions of Learning in 2010. 5th Avenue also reached regional hair finals on three consecutive years. This recognition has helped me expand my business. We opened a new therapy room at The Embankment Hotel, Bedford, also a BBW member.

BBW is a not for profit network organisation.

Established since1988 it attracts professional business women across Bedfordshire. Our focus is to help women get ahead in business. We have networking lunches or big events each month attracting many guests. Bedfordshire Business Women Awards, now in its 13th year is a tremendous lunchtime occasion. On Thursday 17th November we recognise the best business women in Bedfordshire (it could be you!).

Focus on networking is at the heart of BBW success, we currently have 80 active members.

“Word of mouth recommendation” is the most successful way to gain new business. I’m

determined to create awareness of what’s on offer in Bedfordshire and continue to develop my business and promote businesses around me.

The next networking opportunity is Thursday 20th October. Our Network Trawl sponsored by Barfordian Coaches starts at The Embankment Hotel, Bedford for pre networking and starter. We will board a coach for our minute business presentation on the way to The Black Horse at Woburn. After our main course there is a secret ballot to vote for “member’s member of the year” The winner will be announced at our business awards in November. The awards will be held at Bedford Blues Rugby Club from 11.00am- 2.30pm.

Please book with us on our website www.bedsbusinesswomen.org and encourage new guests to join us.

BBW awards will generate publicity for your business and winners will be seen as role models in their field. Members and non members can apply. If you have what it takes or know someone worthy, download the application from our website. Winners will receive an award, certificate, cash prize and winners logo for marketing. Finalists will receive a finalist logo for marketing. Closing date is 28th October. Book your place to attend today!

Whether you are confident or shy you’ll always feel welcome at BBW. An investment of £80 membership will give you unlimited potential.

See you soon.

Kerry Cash President BBW www.beds-businesswomen.org for enquiries - kerry@5thavenuespa.co.uk

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Horse M

ost girls when they are little dream of horses and ponies whether it’s riding or owning them, I know I did!

talk.......

she was also asked to jump at Burghley in the Pony Club team show jumping event. Beth told me “The pony club encourages young people to ride and enjoy all kinds of sport connected with horses and riding, they have clubs all around the country and I would recommend anyone who is interested in horses to join their local Pony club”

Beth Symington not only dreamt it, for her it became a reality and the reality is getting bigger and better.

At 12 years old Beth was riding a horse called Mickey who taught her some of the more advanced elements of riding! She then moved on from Mickey and was looking at buying her own horse, she then met Patch (Patchington Topgun) when she was visiting The College Equestrian Centre in Keysoe, he was an overweight scruffy horse but as soon as Beth rode him she fell in love with him, perhaps it was his film star roots (Patch starred in the film ‘Sleepy Hollow’ with Johnny

At six months old Beth sat on her first horse and she has been smitten ever since! She was lucky enough to have a mother who shared the same passion and so she was able to spend a lot of her life around horses and their environment.

When she was younger Beth became a member of The Pony Club where she represented her area teams in dressage, show jumping and eventing,

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Depp!) and as they say ‘the rest is history!’

Patch and Beth have grown together she says “we went from strength to strength, qualifying for the Trailblazers Showjumping Championships in 2009, and then once he was in good condition his true colours started to show, in 2010 he started to showjump affiliated, and quickly showed us how good he was, by winning his second British Novice. In 2011 we qualified for the KBIS British Novice Regional finals. I have also managed to secure my first sponsorship contract with 'Springfield Business Supplies' who have greatly supported me, and I now have a fantastic trainer in the form of Sarah Bullimore who is a GB event rider” “Unfortunately earlier this year Patch had to take 6 months off due to an injury, but he has now come back as strong and determined as ever!”

Patch is kept at The College Equestrian Centre in Keysoe and I asked Beth “Do you go and ride Patch everyday even in bad weather?” “I do, I normally I go once I get home from school, in winter it’s sometimes freezing and I would rather be shopping with my friends but then I remember what I want to achieve which is to go to Hartbury college in Gloucstershire next year, so I have to keep achieving well and be committed and dedicated What advice would you give anyone who was interested in getting into riding / competing? “It doesn’t matter how old you are when you show an interest but as I said before I would recommend joing your local pony club, be prepared for a lot of hard work and commitment and commitment has to come from your

family as well who take you to events, support you etc” This is an all year round sport, the last outside event normally takes place in October and then it all moves indoors to the indoor arenas.

Beth has come a long way since sitting on a horse at 6 months old, she has worked hard and that has paid off, she is doing something that she loves and is an inspiration to us all.

As we write this article Beth is due to compete this coming weekend we wish her lots of luck and in next months Affinity I will keep you posted on how she got on, or you can follow her on: www.boseventing.weebly.com

Welcome to.......

The Five Bells, Cople In the peaceful village of Cople is The Five Bells, a quaint pub full of character and charm. New owners Eamonn and Julie have been at The Five Bells for only three months and they have already given this cosy village pub a new lease of life.

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here is a lounge area with sofas to chill on, homemade traditional food, bands, quiz nights, and so much more, their aim is to provide a warm welcome with a relaxing atmosphere in comfortable surroundings, where people can come to relax whilst enjoying a drink or a hearty meal and that is exactly what we got!

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The food on the menu is all home prepared using fresh local products. I opted for the box baked camembert with caramelised red onion chutney and fresh bread, and my husband’s choice was crab fishcake with ginger and parsley served with salad and chilli relish, the presentation of both dishes was picture perfect.The camembert was melted perfectly and the flavour combined with the onion chutney on the rustic bread was delicious. The delicate flavours in the fishcake were given a slight kick with the chilli relish.

Whilst waiting for our mains we were made to feel so relaxed with both Eamonn and Julie taking the time to chat with us about their plans for the pub,

they are both so pleased with the response they have received so far from the village and they are starting to achieve their goal which was to put the life back into the local village pub!

Julie is keen to promote her new lunchtime menu which is aimed at business people, ladies who lunch, locals and just about anyone who wants to try it.

There is a large variety of open sandwiches on offer which is proving extremely popular or you can order dishes such as lasagne, steak & mushroom pie, scampi and chips and much more all starting from as little as £4.95. They are also offering the service to business people who only have an hour to phone their order on ahead so their food is waiting for them when they arrive.

We sampled two of the homemade favourites as our mains steak & mushroom pie and fish pie, both were served with seasonal vegetables and the steak pie was served with a choice of potatoes. My husband chose homemade chunky chips to go with his pie, the meat was plentiful and melted in your

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mouth and the flavours of the ale seeped through into the beef making the flavours truly scrumptious.

The portions were generous which meant I was unable to fit in a pudding – but my other half somehow found the space to sample the homemade apple pie and custard, which according to him was just delicious.

Wednesday nights are themed menu nights, such as Mexican, Chinese and Curry. These evenings are proving extremely popular and so booking is recommended.

To find out all about what is on offer at this pub whether you want to try your hand at the quiz, relax with a pint and listen to the band play or enjoy some traditional home cooked food then you need to visit The Five Bells and see for yourself – this is definitely somewhere I’ll be going back to it is so friendly.

For more information on what’s on or to view menus visit: www.fivebellscople.com, 01234 831330

Pan-fried Gnocchi Sage Chilli Parma Ham

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he word gnocchi may derive from the Italian word ‘nocchio’, meaning a knot in wood.

It has been a traditional Italian pasta type since Roman times. It was introduced by the Roman Legions during the enormous expansion of the empire into the countries of the European continent.

In the past 2,000 years, each country developed its own specific type of small dumplings, with the ancient gnocchi as their common ancestor.

The use of potato is a relatively recent innovation, occurring after the introduction of the potato to Europe in the 16th century.

There is such a variety of ways of making and preparing gnocchi that the imagination can run wild.

You can go from simple gnocchi with EV Olive Oil and parmesan to rich sauces with wine and rabbit.

Although you can buy gnocchi from most supermarkets there is nothing more satisfying (apart from eating them) than making your own fresh at home and this is a lovely spicy version and will make a nice treat this halloween.

All this talk has got the taste buds working overtime...so go on give it a try

‘’The Don’s Delicious Dining’ is exclusive to Affinity, each month ‘The Don’ will be sharing delicious recipes for you to WOW your family and friends with!!

If you would like the services of ‘The Don’ for private dining in your own home, please contact him at

davethedon1@googlemail.com

Ingredients Gnocchi: 250g potatoes 150g pasta/strong flour 1 egg yolk 2tbls EV Olive oil Seasoning Sauce: 10g sage (chopped) 1 red chilli (chopped) 1 garlic clove(crushed) 100g butter 6 slices Parma Ham

Recipe Place 6 medium potatoes in oven as per jacket for an hour Scoop out the middle and mash Knead the dry mash, flour and egg yolk together season and mix to a smooth dough Boil a pan of water with salt.

Cut the dough into 4 and roll into sausage shapes - 1cm in diameter Now cut the sausage shapes into 2cm long gnocchi Place them onto a floured tray Place your butter into a frying pan to melt Place gnocchi into the boiling water once they start to rise to the top 2-3 minutes remove and strain Now place the chilli, sage and garlic with the melted butter for a minute to draw out the flavours Place the gnocchi into the butter and saute till golden brown last few seconds tear the parma ham in strips and toss Sprinkle grated Pecorino/ Parmesan/Gorgonzola on top

BUONâ&#x20AC;&#x2C6;APETITO!

Wine of the Month Just before we loaded up the car with the children and headed off down to Cornwall for a much needed week away, I was in London for a tasting of Argentinean wines.

From the big and bold reds, with Malbec being the front runner, to the more subtle and floral whites from the Torrontes grape, there really are wines to suit most tastes. The other great thing is that prices have remained pretty stable compared to many other wine producing countries. With an abundance of some simply stunning wines available at under £10 a bottle, it’s a great country to try without breaking the bank.

Annie’s Apple & Almond Tart Ingredients 6 oz self raising flour Pinch of salt 4oz butter 1egg yolk 1 tbs water eating apples (grated) 4oz butter 2oz caster sugar 3 egg whites 4oz marzipan

Method Rub butter into the flour and salt until fine breadcrumbs, stir in egg yolk and water, knead the pastry lightly and wrap in cling film, put in fridge for at least an hour.

Roll pastry and line an 8” tart base and bake blind for 10 minutes, allow to cool.

When cool grate 4 oz of marzipan onto base Cream together butter and sugar until light and creamy Whisk egg whites to peaks Fold the apples into the butter and sugar mix them gently fold in the egg whites Fill the tart case with the mixture Then with the trimmings from the tart base criss cross over the tart.

Bake in oven (150C gas Mark 2) for 35 to 40 mins until golden brown.

Malbec is the main red grape variety produced and its popularity continues as more and more wine drinkers discover it. It can be found elsewhere, mainly in Cahors in the South-West of France where it is known as ‘the black wine of Cahors’ due to its almost ink like colour. It is also one of the six grapes allowed in the production of Bordeaux wine but usually very little is added, if any at all.

From Argentina it has found a natural home, Nieto Malbec is dark and brooding with great concentration of fruit with touches of spicy vanilla and mocha, it’s an ideal partner to roast beef or ribs on the barbeque. Like all full bodied reds, opening up for a few hours before indulging will work wonders and if you have time to decant, all the better.

The Nieto Torrontes is a wonderful unoaked floral wine from high up in the Andes mountains, aromatic with touches of white peaches and oranges and with tons of refreshing acidity that is just made to go with seafood but works equally well with all types Nieto Torrontes of antipasti.

2010 £8.49 There are plenty of others, too many to list here but pop into your local wine merchant and have a go at exploring the wines from Nieto Malbec 2010 £8.95 this fantastic country.

All wines available from: The Blue Glass 43 St.Cuthbert's Street Bedford MK40 3JG Tel: 01234 347732 Email: theblueglass@btconnect.com www.theblueglass.co.uk Opening times: 11:00am to 7:00pm.

Closed Sundays and Mondays

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A wealth of the garden in

seasonal month

October

by month hints & tips to keep your garden at its best

The nights are drawing in, and October will see the clocks going back and the first frosts in colder parts of the country. Gardening time might feel curtailed by the shorter sunlight, but the days are often glorious, with the autumn colour a counterpoint to the light tipping away.

plants of interest for October Potentilla fruticosa 'Red Ace'

Iris unguicularis

Slow growing, lime tolerant, evergreen shrub, or small tree with glossy green leaves. White flowers, similar in shape to Lily-of-the-valley, appear in late autumn or early winter.

Perennial - lilac flowers from October to March.

Height 22cm (9in).

Cimicifuga simplex Lighting the way towards the shorter days of autumn is the late flowering Cimicifuga simplex. Long, musty scented spikes towering up to 2.5 metres are covered in a mass of white starry flowers. The plant favours a woodland setting and happily flowers in shade.

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key tasks to undertake tips for the month Pick windfall apples for cooking and twist those on the tree half a turn to see if they're ripe. If so, they'll come away with a satisfying snap. The unblemished can be stored in a cool shed to last into the winter months.

Geraniums, persicaria and the likes of Achillea can be cut back hard, lifted with a fork and teased apart. Reuse only the healthiest, outer growth and discard the oldest material on to the compost heap.

With warmth still in the ground, the roots will take hold before winter sets in.

Weed paths before winter – they will be cleaner and less slippery to walk on.

This is the best month for laying turf; make sure the soil is carefully prepared first.

Tie in climbers to prevent potential gale damage.

Tree peonies and camellias will now benefit from bonemeal and a top dressing with compost (not manure).

Think about bringing in any houseplants that have been outside. Acclimatise them slowly if you can. In warmer areas of the country it is worth risking half-hardy perennials until the end of October to make the most of the finale, but in frost-prone areas you will need to bring them under cover, or into the shelter of the buildings.

When you are tidying the borders, resist the temptation to cut back any of the more tender plants you are planning to leave in the ground over winter. Mulch them deeply and they will come through fine, unless it is a particularly hard winter.

If you haven't already done so, start your compost going by buying a bin or building a partially enclosed area for a heap. It is vital to replace the goodness in soil after a hefty growing season and autumn produces masses of garden waste that will put invaluable organic richness back into the ground for next spring.

Watering - Hardly an issue at the moment!

However, do keep an eye on your pots and containers in dry spells and check for wilting leaves before it is too late; all plants that keep their leaves continue to transpire, so should not be allowed to dry out completely.

Until next month……………………….

Plant all spring bulbs except tulips which need to wait until next month.

Mow lawns and trim hedges for the last time this year.

Clear falling autumn leaves.

Keep deadheading, watering and feeding your hanging baskets to keep them going for as long as possible.

Sow sweet pea seeds in pots in the cold frame to produce early blooms next year.

Prepare your soil for next year. Your soil is your most precious commodity, so start digging in compost, manure and as much organic matter as you can lay your hands on to replace the goodness in it.

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E

ach month my page brings you top eco picks to show you that by making green choices you never have to compromise on style. Whether they mean cutting down on your carbon footprint or helping to pay a worker a fair wage, there are lots of ways to help the world whilst keeping up appearances. Despite the vast number of companies out there still flouting the eco code, there are a growing number to help you make a green difference so take note, make your Autumn a green one with my tips on how to save energy in the kitchen.

the of

Queen Green

Save Energy in the Kitchen by Alessia Stoles

The kitchen is one of busiest places in the house and as such it is one of the most energy hungry areas too. We do our cooking and clothes washing from the kitchen not to mention the dish-washing and cleaning – all of which takes energy.

dramatically less energy.

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Washing Perhaps one of the most power hungry appliances in the kitchen is the tumble dryer. By reverting to a washing line or a clothes airer you will save on a big chunk of your electricity bill. By making sure you wash at a low temperature and ensure the washing machine is full before you turn it on – will also go a long way in helping.

Cutting down on our energy consumption in the kitchen is one sure way of reducing our carbon footprint, turn our home into a more eco-friendly one and save on our energy bills.

Here are some ideas how you can cut down on energy and water use, as well as save some money and even time.

Cooking There are many things we can do whilst cooking to save energy. A good way to start is to use less pots and pans. This not only means we’ll use less rings on the hob and save on gas and electric but it will also save on washing up. Vegetables can all be cooked together, its just a matter of timing and there are other ways of reducing energy too.

Gas energy savers allow you to get more heat from the gas stove for less use. These alloy discs heat up so you don’t have to turn the gas knob as high to get the same effect. Halogen ovens are another great way of cooking too. They heat up instantly saving you from wasting all that energy waiting for the oven to get hot. They also use

Eco Kettles An Eco Kettle will reduce electricity usage. For the household that has a kettle that gets a lot of use an eco kettle will save energy and money. Not as dramatic as perhaps other energy saving devices but the cumulative savings, especially if you drink as much tea as I do, is considerable.

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All th hallow ese creepy ee be pur n goodies ca n chased a & Spen t Marks cers

Chocolate Muffin Spider Cakes Great fun to make for you and the kids for this spooky time of the year.

Ingredients 50g butter 75g brown sugar 1 egg 100g plain flour 90ml milk 2 tsp baking powder 1 tsp cocoa powder To Decorate 4 tbsp icing sugar Food colourings 3 liquorice spirals 8 mini marshmallows/smarties

Method Preheat oven to 200 C / gas mark 6.

Put the butter, sugar, egg and flour into a mixing bowl stir together until well mixed.

Sift baking powder and cocoa powder into the bowl.

Add the milk and mix together.

Use a tbsp to divide mixture into muffin cases.

Bake for around 20 to 25 minutes until springy on top.

Make icing according to packet and add food colouring of your choice.

Cover muffin with icing and while still wet place on 8 liquorice legs.

For eyes cut small marshmallow pieces in half and add a drop of black food colouring for the pupils.

Then sprinkle chocolate sugar strands on top.

Eat and enjoy.....yummy

BORNEO ~ THE LAND BELOW THE WIND ~

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where it is possible to visit Orang Utans at feeding time and get up close to these beautiful creatures.

For me one of the main reasons for visiting Borneo was to see the orphaned Orang Utans in the World Famous Sepilok Rehabilitation centre so we flew to Sandakan for a few days.

The main tourist draw here is the Rehabilitation Centre where you have the chance to see orphaned babies and juvenile Orang Utans being cared for in nearly natural surroundings. Having watched the ‘Diaries’ on TV this was a must in our itinerary and although it is a major tourist attraction with hundreds of people visiting each day, much needed funds are raised by visitors for this worthwhile cause. The whole visit is carefully staged to avoid too much contact with humans so that the beautiful animals can be reintroduced to the wild when they are grown enough to fend for themselves. Having taken a million and one photos of these mischievous babies we were driven to our Lodge where we spent the night and took an optional night-time walk through the Rainforest. Not the best idea if you don’t like leeches and don’t have leech socks! But enough said..

The following day we travelled by speedboat to Seligan Island, better known as Turtle Island,

cross the South China Sea from Peninsular Malaysia lie the states of Sabah & Sarawak, better known as Borneo. Rich in lush tropical jungles filled with diverse wildlife, wide sandy beaches and oceans which abound with rich marine life, Borneo is a nature lover’s paradise and an explorers dream.

We travelled with Cathay Pacific via Hong Kong for a few days of sightseeing in the former British metropolis before an onward flight to Kota Kinabalu in the State of Sabah. The bustling City sits majestically on the South China Sea and offers superb world class Hotels, some within their own picturesque Bays of white sandy beaches and warm waters. Shangri-La’s Rasa Ria Hotel sits on the picture perfect Dalit Beach and offers spacious guest rooms overlooking the ocean and is surrounded by virgin rainforest. There are a choice of restaurants within the Hotel including Coast where you can enjoy exotic Malaysian dishes in a beachfront setting; the highlight of the meal though is the selection of tasty desserts bought to you at your private table under the stars. Very Romantic! The Hotel offers a perfect place to relax and unwind with plenty of watersports and a golf course to while away the hours. It also boasts its own Nature Reserve

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The Lodge is basic but clean and comfortable; the emphasis is on the surrounding wildlife. The Kinabatangan River is home to crocodiles and extremely rare creatures such as the Sumatran Rhino. On the evening Canoe Safari we were very privileged to see Pigmy Elephant which are very rarely spotted and a gathering of the very amusing looking Proboscis Monkey.

Apart for the abundance of wildlife experiences North Borneo has a fascinating history including the Japanese invasion during WWII and the infamous Prisoner of War death marches to Ranau. Ruins of the Camp are still there along with a memorial to the Prisoners who died.

The museum of Agnes Keith an American author was a brilliant find. She made her home in Sandakan with her British Husband who was ‘Conservator of Forest’ prior to WWII, her books telling amusing stories of her married life in North Borneo then her subsequent capture & imprisonment by the Japanese during the War. Her books make excellent holiday reading in ‘The land below the wind’.

where most nights Hawksbill and Green Turtles come ashore to lay their eggs. What a privilege it is to see these huge but gentle creatures slowly making their way across the sand in the moonlight to lay their eggs before slipping silently back into the water and disappearing from view.

The eggs are then gathered and protected until they hatch and are nurtured until the young are released back into the sea. It’s quite a comical sight to see these hatchlings riding the waves but quite sobering when you are told that their survival rate is so minimal. Our time spent on the Island during the day was extremely relaxed, there are few facilities and the accommodation is basic but the snorkelling is great and the beach is out of this world.

Having spent an exciting night on Turtle Island we travelled back to the mainland and to the Kinabatangan River Lodge. A fascinating longtail speedboat journey up river to get to the Lodge revealed dense rainforest on one shore and the intrusive Palm Oil Plantations taking over the other shore. The Palm plants growing so tightly together that it looks impossible for wildlife to survive and a stark reminder that the habitat for so many wild creatures is being destroyed forever .

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Holidays to Borneo can be tailor-made to suit any budget. Please call Sue Alexander at Eagle Travel on 01234 348882 or visit Eagle Travel at 11 Goldington Road Bedford www.eagletravel.co.uk.

n o t p m a H n ma b u l C D S r pe

Mini Coo

From March this year All Mini special editions were named after London boroughs, districts and landmarks.

The first was the Mini Clubman Hampton â&#x20AC;&#x201C; as in Hampton Court.

Finished in unique Reef Blue Metallic with a black roof and door surrounds this included a bespoke Lounge Leather interior with Damson Red detailing inside and out. he Chili pack is also fitted as standard, so you get climate control, Bluetooth, a USB socket, additional lighting and storage, and a sports steering wheel. 17-inch alloys, Bi-Xenon headlamps and special badging are also fitted.

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BMW have definitely made some very worthwhile improvements to the core Mini range which increases its appeal quite a bit.

A lot of people worry that the Mini is becoming a German car that happens to be built in Britain, rather than a truly British product, but the introduction of the Hampton provides reassuring evidence that there is surely at least one person

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with a sense of humour at BMW's Munich headquarters, a person who understands the Mini's cheekily subversive British character and has a good working knowledge of Cockney rhyming slang. It really is most encouraging. Once you get past the name, the Hampton package is a bit of a mixed bag.

The big news though is the availability of an additional, more powerful diesel engine. The external appearance of the BMW Mini hasn't altered a great deal since it first saw the light of day ten years ago but the diesel versions have seen quite a bit of under-bonnet chopping and changing. Early models used a Toyota power unit,

Model shown Mini Cooper S Courtesy of Elms, Bedford

Price: £23,185 but this was later replaced by an engine from BMW's drive-train partner Peugeot, which in turn gave way to an in-house diesel with a capacity of 1.6 litres. Now the 1.6 is joined by a 2.0-litre engine, also BMW's own, which gives quite a bit more power.

Stuffing a big diesel engine under the bonnet may not seem like a very Mini thing to do but the car that results still achieves a very high Mini-ness rating, mainly because of its lively performance, which fully justifies BMW giving this new model not just a Cooper badge but an S - presumably for Sport or Sporty - to go alongside its D for diesel. With this much (refined) go, the 2.0 diesel Mini shows excellent levels of brand-typical nippiness and must therefore be judged a great success.

It provides just enough extra rear leg-room and luggage space to address the main drawbacks of the hatchback, while its longer wheelbase doesn't dent the Mini's dynamic qualities and, if anything, feels like it probably helps ride comfort.

And there's more good news on the way. A sporty new coupé version of the Mini will go on sale shortly, and the 2.0 diesel will be one of the engine options – now that really promises to be a combination worth trying.

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Engine: 2.0-litre diesel Top speed: 134 mph Acceleration: 0-62 mph in 8.6 seconds Combined cycle fuel consumption: 64.2 mpg CO2 emissions: 115 g/km

from Corporate to

Kayak

The Big 5 Kayak Challenge

Because life’s too short not to try, Richard Harpham decided one day that it was time to make changes in his life and start fighting for the causes he had always believed in. losing count.

e retired early from the corporate world, and co-founded the Big 5 Kayak Challenge a few years ago to pursue his dreams of kayaking across oceans and helping people who aren’t as lucky as himself, he supports charities such as the Muscular Help Foundation and the Marine Conservation Society.

H

It’s hard to imagine now that Richard was once a typical EMBA high-achiever who spent his life in the office.

He realised he didn’t want to spend his life in the corporate world and decided he could combine his tireless commitment to sport with his urge to do good. So he assembled a team of like-minded people and was off.

Investing his whole life, time and soul to this amazing project, Richard is determined to make a difference in people’s minds showing them how they can contribute to help others and make the world a better place. He told me “If you don’t push your own limits, you will never know what is waiting for you, it’s time to start taking action and get involved in the causes that matter to you.”

“I decided it was time to stop writing about others peoples’ adventures and start having my own.”

And so the adventure began…………

The Big 5 Kayak Challenge started as 5 Big Kayaking challenges with open water crossings, paddling in blizzards and a 1,000 mile epic adventure from Vancouver to Glacier Bay, Alaska.

These distinct and unique expeditions, paddling some of the most challenging waters on the planet become a life changing experience for Richard with bears, wolves, whales and of course iconic locations. Richard said “The support along the way was amazing, with people we had never met before inviting us into their homes to get warm, have a drink, relax it was acts of pure

So far on The Big 5 Kayak Challenge, Richard and his team have covered nearly 5,000 miles and have raised over £20,000 for various good causes and charities. The expeditions to date include a kayak and cycle journey from London to Marrakech, as well as paddling from Vancouver Island to Alaska.

Richard was also the manager of ‘The Snow Leopard’, the only Ghanaian skier at the 2010 Winter Olympics, and has started so many ventures and projects that he’s on the verge of

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kindness”

Olympus Cameras and even a day paddling in the UK for four with canoetrails.co.uk.

“The journey has continued to grow, within us, and we have now completed over 5,000 miles as a team. Our challenges have grown over time and we have now completed the Big 5 Kayak challenge 2010 and also sea kayaked around Malta and Gozo, canoed 700 miles of the Yukon River and in 2010 I kayaked and cycled 2363 miles from London to Marrakech.”

Their next great adventure was meant to be in New York this month, but the recent hurricane has meant they have had to postpone until next May. They will be giving people the chance to join them for a day. Richard told me “Each day someone will get to join us on our kayaking challenge, getting involved and being part of the team. We hope that this will inspire a great many people to explore their dreams, adventures and possibilities in their lives. We are calling this ‘The Spare Seat’ and part of its intrigue is who will join us, what will their stories be and how will the entire story end.”

“The New York State ‘Spare Seat’ kayak expedition is an epic journey of over 500 miles across New York State, from Niagara Falls, to the Statue of Liberty. We aim to capture the heritage, culture, wildlife and iconic locations along the route from Niagara Falls, along the Eerie Canal, a UNESCO world Heritage site to Albany where the team will join the Hudson River and paddle south to Manhattan, New York City and the Statue of Liberty.”

I asked Richard, What’s next on your list? “I had a lot of time on my bike on the recent London to Marrakech expedition to think of what next. My plans are to sea kayak 15 iconic locations around Britain’s coast and to complete an environmental impact on the beaches for pollution and plastics. I am also planning to canoe 5 rivers in Britain and will return to Alaska to sea kayak, hike and raft the missing section between my two previous expeditions.”

His current projects are Inspired Life which aims to live and breathe energy and inspiration in all that we do, through our programmes and activities for young people and communities, and Canoe Trail, a company which tailors guided kayak tours of British waterways for private clients.

To find out more about any of these please visit: www.inspiredlife.org www.canoetrails.co.uk www.big5kayakchallenge.com

Richard and his team mate Glenn will be sharing their experiences by giving talks about their adventures, hosting coaching clinics and documenting life and interviewing people they meet along the way.

An exciting element of the project is the UK competition for two lucky winners to join the team for 3 days on the water in the Spare Seat in each double kayak and also a city break in the ‘Big Apple’, New York City. This once in a lifetime prize is courtesy of New York State, Division of Tourism, Delta Airlines and Travelbag. There are also a host of other fantastic runners up prizes including Vango rucksacks, Paramo Clothing,

WIN WIN WIN: For the chance to join Richard in New York for ‘The Spare Seat Challenge’ visit www.thespareseat.com closing date is 31st March 2012 – Good Luck!

Discover your.....

'I light these candles to create, The will to grant a wealthy state, And happiness, with enough to share,

Destiny

Readers Questions Why do I continuously have nightmares?

Mr. D Your nightmares are a sign of your brain trying to sort out the flotsam and jetsam of everyday life.

They give you fear, because your life gives you fear.

However in everyday life you try to hide the difficulties from yourself, so the adrenalin is released at night when your body is calm, but your mind is constantly buzzing; trying to make sense of things which in daily life you push away.

If you let me know the specifics of a few of your nightmares I will have a better chance of actually pinpointing the full source.

assure me, but not while you stay down trodden, and afraid. The final card of my reading for you is the Star, telling you to keep your hope and dreams alive, aim high, rather, than fixing your sights on the ground. That way you see birds flying in freedom, instead of mud around your feet.

My marriage split up a few years ago after being with my wife for 20 odd years since we were teenagers, I fell in love with the wife of my friend although I didn't let on, I used to dream of being with her and just to get her out of my mind I started seeing a lady and have recently married her. I no longer see the lady I fell in love with but I think of her all the time - will I be able to make a go of my new marriage? B.A The first card in your spread is the page of cups, telling you to take love slowly, and not try to rush things. The crystal ball sees a life of comfort and happiness, they show a man who is not afraid to show love, but is afraid of loneliness, and more specifically of not being useful to anyone. When your marriage failed, you would have searched for the same happy family relationship, and formed a one way attachment to someone who you thought could make you happy, as she had made your friend happy, but even then you would have realised that this was not a true love, or you would have pursued it.

Your current marriage feels different to your first, so you begin to make reasons why it may go wrong. It has every chance of being happy, comfortable and loving, but it will not be the same. When you realise this you can make it a relationship that you can both be happy in, if you look to the future, rather than the past.

I am in a marriage that I feel alone in, I have to constantly support my husband but he doesn't support me he is an emotional bully, I am not allowed any friends only people he chooses for me to be my friend, I would leave him but I am so scared of being on my own - Do you see this changing for me? C.A It can only change when you get strong enough to take a chance on life. My cards tell me that your self esteem is at an all time low, after trying to walk on eggshells for years. The choices which are before you are to put up with this attitude of life for life, or to be brave and take one step away, one day at a time. If you stand up to his bullying, you would find a pathetic sad man, who has to keep you down so that you do not leave him, alternately making you feel sorry for him and afraid of staying with him; he would be telling you that you are old and ugly, and that no one would want you, and all this because he is very frightened that someone would make you happier, and that you would never be with him again.

There would be someone out there for you, the cards

About magic......

Money Spell Even the most giving soul still needs money in this world, and self worth. This spell combines the two in a way which also brings wealth and self worth to others.

You will need 3 yellow or gold candles, some copper coins (the shinier the better), 3 citrines.

Magic starts with belief, with the 100% belief that you can affect a change.

I cast my spell in the belief that it will do some good, and then I go away and forget it, leave it to work its magic. I do not disturb what I have done, or check that all is done correctly. Usually all works well, and in a short time change is evident.

Light the candles as you say: 'I light these candles to create, The will to grant a wealthy state, And happiness, with enough to share, From within the dish thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lying there.

To ask for myself, and not be greedy, I ask for myself and for all the needy.'

Here is a spell which I am constantly asked for, and which have proven success for many of my visitors.

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Frfit yours

sel

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

Stones to help remove addictions and obsessions Addiction can be caused by many things, but one of the most prevalent reasons for people to become addicted is a general unhappiness that they have little or no control over their lives, minds, or future. The addictive actions give them a feeling of certainty, and where there is no trust of others it lets them feel in control, while in reality of course they are spiralling totally out of control.

There are several stones which help remove the sadness and lack of free will which comes with these debilitating fears.

Hematite Is an Iron based ore which gives strength, willpower, and courage, so is good for those who suffer from phobias such as Agoraphobia, and fears such as crowds, heights, or relationships. Its smoky silver sheen is similar to pewter in colour, when polished or tumbled.

Most healers agree that the best advice would be to keep a piece under your pillow, or carried in a pocket close to your heart. It is a stone which grounds you, and gives you something to stand firm on in life which can help you to make movement forward, when the time is right.

Amethyst is a very beautiful light lilac to deep purple stone, often used in jewellery, and a staple choice of every crystal healer. It should be carried and or worn, and gives a feeling of peace and a belief that things can change. It is very helpful with addictive drinkers, and those who have hopelessness or pointlessness as one of their main thoughts. It is also a highly inspirational crystal, which links to the third eye. For addictive gamblers this would be a better choice of stone, to lift themselves above their habits, rather than one which grounds them like Haematite.

Bloodstone This stone is deep green and when polished small specks of red are often seen which give the stone its name. It brings positivity, willpower and heartfelt action, encourages bodily strength to cope with difficulties, and helps with stress. This stone can help with deeply seated phobias and addictive practices, such as obsessional disorders, anorexia, and bulimia. It should be placed on a windowsill of the bedroom of those who suffer, and can be carried as a small tumble stone. Larger pieces also help when planted around the base of plants and bulbs, to bring a feeling of new hope.

Gently drop the coins into the dish, alternate with the citrines, say:

WIN WIN WIN

'I lay these coins within the dish, though they be low, and few.

May they be mirrored, day by day, and trebled through and through.'

Let the candles burn right down.

A voucher worth ÂŁ50 to redeem against a full reading with Sue, to be in with a chance of winning please tell me the name of one of the stones Sue mentions this month, send your answer to info@affinitymag.co.uk by 13th October, winners will be notified by 15th October

Put the dish on a window sill in natural light and add any other copper coins that you get to the dish.

If the dish fills up and overflows, scoop up the money and give it to a good cause. Apart from that do not take money out of the bowl. Any windfalls should also have some of its sum added to the bowl, to go to needy causes or people.

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What’s On.......

October 2011 Sat 1st October

experts from Fred Olsen Cruise Lines and the friendly team at Cruise Select who have all recently cruised on Fred Olsen ships. Find out why cruising is such excellent value for money.

Find out exactly what’s included. It is also the ideal opportunity to ask any questions you may have. Extra Special Offers on the day too!!

Please contact us on 01234 326758 or email sales@cruiseselect.co.uk Sharnbrook Hotel, Park Lane, Sharnbrook, Beds.

MK44 1LX Bedfordshire MK44 1LX

Numberjacks Bedford Corn Exchange For the very first time Children’s TV’s favourite, NUMBERJACKS comes to the stage. Join the TV superheroes as they leave the sofa and embark on their first live adventure – and help them solve problems as they go! But watch out for the dastardly Meanies, who do all they can to get in the way... 11.00am & 1.30pm Tickets: £12.00 (adult) £10.00 (child)

Thurs 13th – Fri 16th October Christmas Gift & Food Fayre Middleton Hall, thecentre:mk A host of gift ideas for every member of the family, plus a huge range of tasty seasonal food and wines to help you make this a memorable Yuletide.

Weds 5th – Sat 8th October Bedford Corn Exchange 34th Bedford Beer & Cider Festival Featuring around 110 real ales from 40 different breweries, over 30 real ciders, perries, draught and bottled speciality beers from Belgium, Germany and the Netherlands. Tasty hot and cold food, souvenir festival glasses to hire or take home, festival and brewery clothing, books and gifts for sale, tombola and a glass engraver. Live entertainers: Wednesday evening – Dr Busker and Saturday evening – Lost 4 Words.

Over 18’s ONLY, ID may be required. Admission fee payable on the door after 5.00pm.

Sun 16th October Bromham Show Autumn Craft Fair Village Hall 10.30am – 3.30pm A wide range of crafts, many of which are locally made including Ceramics, Needlecraft, Christmas Gifts and decorations, Soaps and fragrances, Handmade Cards,Silver and Bead Jewellery will all be on sale. This annual event is ideal for purchasing early Christmas presents and that special gift which cannot be found in major stores. Light refreshments will be available all day.

Sat 8th October Pumpkin and Apple Gala Events of the day include a dog show, a farmers market allowing you to sample the finest fresh produce, morris dancers, traditional country crafts, a range of stalls and most anticipated, the pumpkin decorating competition.

Contributors can enter as individuals or in groups, choosing to provide their own pumpkins or collecting one from the Walled Garden before the event.

The Conservatory at Luton Hoo Walled Garden, Luton Hoo Estate, Luton Bedfordshire LU1 4LF

Thurs 20th October Bedford RSPB Local Group meeting 7.30pm A.R.A. Social Club, Manton Lane, Bedford.

3rd Thursday of each month.

Thurs 20th – Sun 23rd October Lifestyle: Interiors and Exteriors Show Middleton Hall, thecentre:mk An event for houseproud homeowners who want to update and upgrade without breaking the bank. It's easy to check out the coolest ideas and hottest designs to transform a dreary domicile into a home to be proud of.

Thurs 13th October Fred Olsen Cruise Lines New To Cruising Cruise Select together with Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines presents a unique opportunity for those of you who have never cruised before and want to find out more. Why not come and meet the

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From curtains and handmade furniture to state of the art kitchens, it's definitely the show not to miss!

Thurs 27th - Sun 30th October Ghosts & Ghouls Wrest Park, Silsoe,Beds Let your little horrors scare themselves silly this Halloween with creepy crafts, spooky activities and ghost hunting galore! Meet our resident ghost hunter who will take you around the grounds on the trail of some spooky sightings.

(All children are welcome to join in. A Freaky family fun day out!)

Sat 29th October The Monster Mash This is a funfair and fireworks display event with entertainment and stalls open throughout the day. A perfect day out for all the family! There will be dodgems, a ghost house and big wheel along with other funfair rides. The fireworks display is presented by Heart FM and Kimbolton fireworks and will be an exciting display to music. The Monster Mash is hosted by Bodyflight: The world's largest indoor skydiving wind tunnel and extreme sports centre. You can find more information and buy tickets in advance here: www.bodyflight.co.uk Gates open at 10am. Entry is free before 3pm and £7 per person there after. Advance tickets are available to buy for only £5. Car parking is £3 per car. The fireworks display is at 8pm.

Sun 30th October Pumpkin carving, Spooky Guided Walk and supper, find out what goes bump in the night. Give yourself a fright this Halloween and join us on our spooky guided tour across the downs. Light your way with a pumpkin lantern you carved earlier and warm up with the tasty supper provided.

3.30pm to 7pm, £8.00. Booking Essential: 01582 500920 price includes supper. Dunstable Downs, Chilterns Gateway Centre and Whipsnade Estate, Dunstable Road, Whipsnade Bedfordshire LU6 2GY Mon 31st October Bedford Corn Exchange The Mr Men and Little Miss Show 1.30pm The Mr Men & Little Miss are going on the road to celebrate their 40th birthday in a brand new singing and dancing Party Road show!

This 90 minute show will feature the much loved characters singing and dancing along well known children’s songs and plenty of party favourites!

We’ll also meet Little Miss Princess for the very first time, a brand new member of the Mr Men and Little Miss Family £13.00 (adult) £11.00 (child) £44.00 (family)

The picturesque village of Castle Ashby offers you the unique combination of peaceful, easy rural shopping and walking in the gardens of a Stately Home.

Explore the tranquil gardens and relax over a morning coffee, lunch or afternoon tea. Browse around the interesting variety of shops in the old converted farm buildings where you will find special gifts, crafts, and clothing for any occasion.

Why not go and see for yourself! www.ruralshoppingyard-castleashby.co.uk

Sun 30th October Gift & Treat Fair Bedford International Athletic Stadium, Barkers Lane, Bedford A variety of over 45 stalls selling gifts and food. Some of the stalls included are - Shabby chic giftware, Aloe Vera Products, nappy cakes, jewellery, hand knitted items, Fairtrade bags and purses, cheeses, Christmas cards and puddings, cakes and fingerprint jewellery and keepsakes and so much more... No high heeled footwear permitted due to stadium flooring. This is a Sue Ryder event and all proceeds will go to St John’s Hospice, Moggerhanger

LAST MONTH’S COMPETITION WINNERS: Adam Ant - Fiona Moore from Harrold, Alison Moles from Bolnhurst Woodland Manor Sunday Lunch - Ian Whiting from Cople

If you have an event you would like us to mention please email jane@affinitymag.co.uk 65

Quiet night in with………

O

n the back of the success of The Lovely Bones, and in a similar vein to The Virgin Suicides, comes this haunting and gripping tale about teen girls on the cusp of adolescence……. An utterly addictive read.

In a placid 1980s suburb in the Midwest, thirteenyear old Lizzie and her next door neighbor Evie Verver are inseparable, best friends who swap bathing suits and field-hockey sticks and between whom, presumably, there are no secrets. To Lizzie, the Verver household, presided over by Evie's bighearted father, is the world’s most perfect place.

And then, one afternoon, Evie disappears. The only clue: a maroon sedan Lizzie spotted driving past the two girls earlier in the day. As a rabid, giddy panic spreads through the balmy suburban community, everyone turns to Lizzie for answers.

Was Evie unhappy, troubled, upset? Had she mentioned being followed? Would she have gotten into the car of a stranger? Would Evie have gotten into a car with a man?

Compelled by curiosity Lizzie takes up her own

SU D O K U The object is to fill the grid so that the numbers 1 to 6 appear once in each row, column and 2 x 3 box, with no repetitions.

The answer to this puzzle will be in next months issue.

4

1

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6

2

5

2

6

1

4

3

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1

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furtive pursuit of the truth. Her days spent with a shell-shocked Mr. Verver, she devotes her nights to prowling through backyards, peering through windows, pushing herself to the dark center of Evie’s world. Haunted by dreams of her lost friend and titillated by her own new power as the center of the disappearance, Lizzie uncovers secret after secret and begins to wonders if she knew anything about her best friend at all.

Megan Abbott captures the essence of being thirteen—all its magic, its intensity and confusion, its headlong power and its terrible vulnerability—and wraps it in a story that’s taut, unflinching and very hard to put down.”

Win! Win! Win! We have a copy of this book to give away please email ‘Megan’ to info@affinitymag.co.uk, by 13th October for a chance of winning.

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IF YOU SUFFER FROM ANY OF THE FOLLOWING, GIVE US A CALL & LET US HELP YOU. Chiropractic ttreatment can benefit the ffollowing:

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

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, call our clinic TODAY TODA AY for our consultation and health check.

CALL US NOW 01234 353937 0 2TW Bedford Chiropractic Clinic ic 20b De Parys A Avenue, venue, Bedford MK42 admin@bchiropracticclinic.co.uk admin@bchiropracticclinic.co.uk www.bedfordchiropractor.co.uk www.bedfordchiropractor.co.uk Registered with the GCC - BCA Major insurance companies

OCTOBER 2011

ISSUE 5

October 2011

Black magic fashion Bathing beauties Fright night

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Jewellers of Distinction

As an Independent store we have the Siena, Cabaret and Swarovski Collections as well as the whole main range available for you.

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AFFINITY MAGAZINE

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From corporate to kayak Your FREE Monthly Magazine BEAUTY - FOOD - DRINK - HEALTH - FITNESS - STYLE - INTERIORS - MOTORS - WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S ON