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APRIL 2014 ISSUE 34
FREE www.affinitymag.co.uk
April 2014
Chocolate Heaven
AFFINITY LUXURY LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
Easter treats you’ll love
TINDER
We had to!
All about... Rock City’s Mick Hutson
BEAUTY - FOOD - DRINK - HEALTH - FITNESS - STYLE - INTERIORS - MOTORS - WHAT’S ON
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Forget the SALES hype just give us a try, you will be pleasantly surprised
NEVER UNDERSOLD POLICY
we will not be beaten on price for a true ‘like for like’ package
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Welcome... Hi everyone YAY – The wait is over we are pleased to announce our Annual Charity Ball is on Saturday 11th October at The Sharnbrook Hotel and is in aid of “Breakthrough Breast Cancer” the theme for the evening is “Fifty Shades of Pink! Turn to page 2 for more details. We always have an amazing evening, so if you’ve not been before make sure you join us for what promises to be a fantastic evening of glitz and glamour and fun and games, whilst raising money for an extremely worthwhile cause. This month promises to be an Easter Eggstravaganza and a chocolate lovers dream – We have Easter Treats to suit everyone pages 36 & 71, and if you are one of the growing trend of people who decorate your house for Easter then page 54 will be an inspiration to you! And of course we are giving away some Easter Chocolate goodies courtesy of Hotel Chocolat turn to page 26 to enter.
Single? Turn to page 34 where we take a look at the dating app that is taking the UK by storm – Tinder! Until next month, enjoy and I hope the Easter Bunny comes hopping bringing you lots of yummy treats Happy Easter!
Jane x
Cover Image www.orchidsinfo.eu
Editor: Jane Fry jane@affinitymag.co.uk 01234 215523 07507 602401 Advertising Manager: Julia Crofts julia@affinitymag.co.uk 07966 696784 Graphic Design and Photography: David Zita dave@affinitymag.co.uk www.affinitymag.co.uk
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All adverts are printed in good faith. Affinity cannot take responsibility for the content of adverts. Advertisements are accepted on the understanding that descriptions of goods and services are accurate. Reproduction in whole or in part is strictly prohibited.Printed in the UK by Regal Litho 01908 270400
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CONTENTS 14 Tan yourself skinny 19 Readers Whittlebury offer 24 Midlife madness
29 Hot picks 38 Michelin starred Paris 42 Perfect pudding
49 Spring has sprung 56 Outdoor luxe 58 All about.......
62 64 68 72 74
Fry’s footie corner Start of a legend Limiting beliefs Tynley retreat Derren Brown
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Susie Bavister & Baz welcome you to their newly refurbished beauty salon
Facial Aethsetics Frank Conroy (In house Plastic/Cosmetic surgeon)
RégimA
Pamper Packages 45 minute facial Giſt Vouchers including neck Monthly Offers Available
St. Tropez
and shoulder massage
Spray tan course of 5
with a FREE bottle of Glow Body Lotion
£25
£50
01234 852901
facebook.com/creatingbeautysalon
88a Bedford Road, Kempston, Beds MK42 8BG
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Just Why is Sugar so Bad for us?
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he World Health Organisation has suggested that just 5% of our daily calorie intake should come from sugar. They estimate some 500 calories a day may be made-up of pure sugars, providing little nutritional value because so much fructose is hidden in many staple foods, such as bread, sauces and dressings, yoghurts, and many branded ‘low-fat’ foods being the worst culprits and loaded with sugar. Our consumption has crept-up without really noticing it. Sugar addiction is both genuine (according to French research on rats, it could well be more addictive than cocaine!) and one of the greatest threats to human health.
having the benefits of our body’s ability to say ‘that’s enough’ and to stop eating. The reduction in Leptin may well be the start of our sugar fixation. Sugar, like alcohol, has an impact on the liver As with drugs and alcohol, our over consumption of sugar has an effect on our liver’s ability to detoxify our body effectively. It appears that sugar is metabolised in a similar way to ethanol in alcohol and over time can be as demanding on the liver as drinking too much alcohol. So, in the long-term we may suffer similar chronic problems as that of an alcoholic.
Sugar and heart disease A link has been made with a molecule in sugar and its negative effect on heart muscle proteins. Excess sugar has a powerful effect on the heart muscles’ ability to pump blood around the body and over time can weaken this vital organ.
A few simple strategies to help: Increase fibre intake and protein to feel satisfied Become more active to burn off the sugar Don’t be afraid of the sugar in fruits, as they have many health essential vitamins, minerals and health giving biochemicals.
Sugar and fat around the belly If you have excess fat deposit on the belly around the navel, the chances are it is not fat that is the problem, but too much sugar in your diet. Fat deposited here is linked to all sorts of problems, including late onset Type 2 Diabetes, many cancers – particularly breast and colon – and heart disease. With children eating more fructose and becoming more and more sedentary, this is setting the scene for future explosion in chronic long-term health problems. This also has the potential to quite drastically reduce our children’s and grandchildren’s life expectancy, with fizzy drink consumption just one of the culprits.
Eat regular bitter foods, such as green leaf salads, chicory, artichokes. These will not only help the liver, but also act as a mild appetite suppressant. Take a chromium and zinc supplement, which helps to balance blood sugar levels and reduce sugar cravings. If you are having problems with cutting out sugar, worried about the toll it’s taking on your health, there are many herbs which will help reduce your cravings, balance your blood sugar levels and most importantly help your liver detoxify the body effectively.
Fructose and your hormones Leptin is a hormone which tells us we are full and have had enough to eat. However, studies have found a link with eating sugar and the increase in Leptin resistance, so the more sugar we eat the less chance we have of
10
Carolyn Woods Herbalist and Naturopath 07944886502 www.vedatherapeutics.co.uk
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www.sculptfitness.info
‘30 spin bike studio’
‘10 classes a week’
Mad Dogg Certified Instructor Endurance Aerobic
Cardio Strength
See website for great opening offer! Pay as you go £5 No joining fee No annual membership No contracts
“Get into the be st shape of yo
ur life”
Sculpt Fitness Studio Bespoke Lifestyle & Fitness darren.garrett@sculptfitness.info 07889 966106
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PENCIL PERFECT There’s one for everything!
Eyebrow Pencil Used to enhance and refine the shape of the eyebrows, for a natural effect draw fine, hair like strokes MAC Eyebrow Pencil £13, maccosmetics.co.uk
Eyeliner Pencil With a pencil you can achieve a softer finish than you can with a liquid liner Eye of Horus Goddess Eye Pencil £13.99 eyeofhoruscosmetics.co.uk
Eyeshadow Pencil Much quicker to use than palettes , to increase intensitity layer powder on top Nars Touch Shadow Eye Pencil £18 narscosmetics.co.uk
Highlight Pencil Wake up tired eyes with a highlighter pencil. Gives the eyes an instant lift. Jane Irdale Eye Highlighter Pencil £10.95 facethefuture
Nail Pencil A Nail White Pencil, whitens nail tips for a well defined, pristine finish. Apply under the nail tip to help achieve the perfect French Manicure Rimmel Nail Whitening Pencil £2.99 Boots
Concealer Pencil In a hurry? Concealer pencils are the ideal choice for mess-free application. They are great to highlight and contour because they are easy to draw on the face, as well as being perfect for small flaws £12 Urban Decay
12
Lip Pencil These Fabulous After Glow Lip Colour Pencils provide gorgeous colour during the day but contain fluorescent pigment that appear three times brighter at night Stila After Glow Lip Colour Pencil £12 stila.co.uk
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Veda Therapeutics Carolyn wood Herbal Medicine - Ayuverda Naturopathy - Therapeutic Massage - Ear Acupuncture
Qualified nurse since 2003
Herbalist (Dip Herb) Naturopath (Dip ND) MAMH, MANP, ITEC
As a herbalist and naturopath I can help you with
• Immunity • Skin Conditions • Digestive Complaints • Hormonal imbalances • Heart health & Circulation • Energy & Wellbeing • Insomnia • Depression • Other chronic health conditions • Acute coughs & colds
07944 886502 carolyn612@btinternet.com www.vedatherapeutics.co.uk
£10 OFF
1st treatment or course
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Tan yourself Skinny!
Glow This Summer With Australian Wonder Product Skinny Tan
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and have a delicious coconut scent. The self-titled ‘mumtrepreneurs’ and Skinny Tan CoFounders Kate Cotton and Louise Ferguson are the brains behind the tanner, which is set to revolutionise the UK tanning industry. Below are some of their top tanning tips:
hat a tan that makes us skinny at the same time – that is a claim!
Skinny Tan is the Australian tanning sensation and the first tanner to combine natural tanning properties with a naturally derived cellulite active for a dual effect. Skinny Tan helps reduce the appearance of cellulite, contours muscles and improves tone for a better bikini body instantly.
Get the skinny on tanning right here!
Exfoliate first Our No.1 tip is to prep your skin properly first - the better prepared your canvas is to start with, the better the end result. We suggest prepping with Skinny Tan Pre-Tan Primer as it will help remove dull, dead and older skin cells, creating a smoother surface on which to apply Skinny Tan. Your tan will last longer as the new cells won’t shed so fast and massaging vigorously will also help reduce the appearance of cellulite as you prime!
The Skinny Tan product range has been a huge success since its recent launch in the UK after securing investment on hit BBC TV series Dragon’s Den. Made with a natural tanning active derived from the seeds of the Brassica napus plant, Skinny Tan is unlikely to cause the dryness or irritation associated with the chemical DHA. With an instant bronzer that makes it very easy to apply, Skinny Tan has a delicious coconut scent replacing the ordinary chemical fake tanner smell and provides a natural tanned tone which will leave your body looking skinnier and firmer.
Look for 100 percent natural tanning active or natural tanning actives No-one should be putting chemical DHAs on their skin anymore as there are many tanners that are available that use a tanning active that works naturally with your skin
All Skinny Tan products are easy to apply, never streak 14
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to create a far more natural looking colour. Some of these contain a vegetable tanner called Vegetan. Others like Skinny Tan uses another 100 percent natural tanning active ingredient derived from the seeds of the Brassica napus plant. A great advantage is that our natural active doesn’t smell so strongly of that awful fake tan smell. All Skinny Tan tanners are made with this 100 percent natural tanning seed active plus they also use naturally derived guarana, a well-known active that can help your skin appear firmer.
good because as well as keeping skin hydrated it also gives that airbrush glow effect that you see on models in magazines. A great tip is to use your After Glow to highlight your new tan - for example just applying it down the front of your shins can help elongate your legs. TOP TIP FOR MEN! “If you can’t tone it – tan it!” Highlight muscle definition! First apply one coat of Ab shader tanner to your whole body. Then apply another coat just below each abdominal muscle or along the curve of your bicep. This will give the illusion that you are A LOT more muscular than you really are! Plus the Guarana in Ab Shader will also help your whole body look more toned.
Choose a Tanner with an instant colour ALWAYS choose a self-tanner that has a tinted guide bronzer built in (just like Skinny Tan 7-day Tanner and Skinny Tan Ab Shader do). The bronzing guide colour will show you exactly where you have applied the tanner so you can guarantee a 100% streak free finish - no guess work! The built in bronzer also means you are instantly brown and ready to go right out the door while your long lasting tan develops. For even easier application use with the Skinny Tan Apply and Smooth Mitt. The Mitt makes it easy to blend and prevents the tanner transferring to the palms of your hands.
The UK range currently features products for both men and women including: • 7 Day Tan Tanner which provides a deep tan that lasts up to 7 days • Gradual Tanner which is a daily moisturiser - builds up for an even tan • 24-Hour Bronzer for an instant natural bronzing body gloss • Ab Shader especially for men that develops a deep tan in just hours and has naturally derived contouring and firming activities.
Layer to get the most natural shade Never choose a tanner that calls itself ‘dark’ as you could find yourself looking way too fake. It’s far better to choose a medium natural shade like Skinny Tan and apply a few times to get the darker shade you like naturally.
Prolong your colour and glow To make sure your tan endures, you should apply a moisturiser. Skinny Tan After Glow Gloss is especially
I know what I’ll be applying to my skin from now on! Prices start from £14.99 www.skinnytan.co.uk 15
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BOSS Jour Pour Femme £37 Debenhams
Scent of Spring Marc Jacobs Daisy So Fresh Delight £52 Debenhams
Marc Jacobs Daisy Delight £48 Boots Guerlain La Petite Robe Noire Couture Eau de Parfum £63 Debenhams
Thierry Mugler Alien Eau Extraordinaire £68 John Lewis Nina Ricci La Tentation de Nina Eau de Toilette £40 Boots
Givenchy Very Irrésistible L'Eau en rose Eau de Toilette £52.50 Debenhams
Elie Saab L'Eau Couture £66 John Lewis
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READERS OFFER
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A Simply Indulgent Reader Offer from Whittlebury Hall Hotel and Spa… The Day Spa incorporates the unique Heat and Ice Experiences, which provides body sensations brought about by dramatic changes in temperature. Facilities include a Sanarium® incorporating a sauna, soft steam bath and herbal bath; a Caldarium hot room and a Soap Massage room. Other facilities include an Aromatherapy Crystal Steam room, an Ice Cave, Roman Salt Steam, Experience Showers, Foot Spas and Hydrotherapy Pool.
Simply Indulgent Reader Offer from Whittlebury Hall Hotel and Spa…
The award-winning Whittlebury Hall Hotel and Spa, set in rural Northamptonshire, is presenting you with a simply indulgent offer. Spoil yourself and a friend or loved one to the perfect summer treat – Buy either an Escape and Spa Stay OR Escape and Spa Stay Plus, and receive COMPLIMENTARY Whittlebury Cream Tea*.
Just imagine a spa break with friends and family this spring and summer, enjoying award-winning facilities, some well-earned time out in our luxurious Spa and complimentary Afternoon Cream Tea…
The Escape and Spa Stay and Escape and Spa Stay Plus packages allow you to enjoy full use of The Day Spa Heat and Ice Experiences, the Spa and The Leisure Club facilities, two-course buffet lunch, a spa treatment, threecourse dinner in Astons Restaurant, overnight stay and full English breakfast. And if that isn’t tempting enough, complimentary Whittlebury Cream Tea (with warm home baked Fruit Scones with Strawberry Preserve and Clotted Cream, and a choice of Tea or Coffee), providing the perfect treat for some well-earned pampering.
To take advantage of this Exclusive Offer, call us today and quote AFFINITY14 on 0845 400 0002 To book your day spa, hotel and spa break online, find out more and to register for our latest offers and e-newsletter, visit www.whittleburyhall.co.uk *Terms and Conditions apply. Subject to availability. This offer is available Monday - Thursday only. This offer is non-transferable and non-refundable, has no cash equivalent and full prepayment is required at time of booking. Offer applies to new purchases only. This offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer or promotion. Guests must be aged 18 years or over. This offer is not open to the employees of Whittlebury Hall and their family members. Accommodation is based on 2 people sharing a standard room. Offer includes a complimentary Whittlebury Cream Tea per person worth £8.95 per person when purchasing an Escape & Spa Stay for £108.90 per person or Escape & Spa Stay Plus for £141.90 per person per night. Offer valid for bookings made and taken from 1st April 2014 to 5th September 2014.
Whilst on your spa stay you will unwind and experience some of the best this hotel has to offer. This four star deluxe hotel boasts some impressive features; 213 bedrooms, 3 restaurants and The Day Spa, one of the largest Spa’s in the country with 23 treatments rooms and some of the latest treatments on offer. In addition, The Leisure Club includes a 19-metre pool, whirlpool and gym with the latest state-of-the-art facilities. 19
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How to Keep Fit Wherever You Are
J
Jon is a Masters Level exercise scientist, fitness entrepreneur, thought leader and author. He has been a coach for more than 15 years, working with elite sports performers, business leaders, royalty and clients from the entertainment industry. Jon is the Founder of Club 51, a bespoke health and fitness studio in Mayfair, London. His desire to help people achieve simpler, healthier lifestyles is the inspiration behind The Pop-up Gym.
on Denoris is a fitness trainer to a host of busy people including actors, TV presenters and politicians; he has created a series of highly flexible and effective exercises and routines, most of which can be carried out almost everywhere: in the home, at work or outdoors. Hardly any of them require equipment; small dumbbells, a medicine ball and a stability ball will come in useful for a few of the exercises but that is all. The exercises can even be done on holiday or adapted to work with stand in equipment such as bottles, backpacks and briefcases. It is a genuine pop-up gym, a fitness programme you can take with you wherever you go.
“With JD, It’s about eating right, making sure that your mind is right and that you are focused on everything.’” Estelle Award winning number one singer/songwriter
“Despite my poor diet while I was in town and drinking like a Londoner, I still managed to lose weight and improve my fitness during my recent trip. And I have Jon to thank for that!” Perez Hilton Hollywood celebrity blogger
WIN! WIN! WIN!
The book is published on the 8th May, and here at Afffinity we are giving FIVE lucky readers the chance to win a copy – all you need to do is “Tell us the name of Jon’s Book” and send answers to info@affinitymag.co.uk – Good Luck
Along with the exercise routines, Jon explains how to get your mind in gear for a long-term commitment to fitness. He shares top motivation tips, fat-burning advice and nutritional information. 21
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Lana Del Rey's Hairstylist's Top Hair Trends For Summer
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hen she's not travelling with gorgeoustressed client Lana Del Rey, stylist Anna Cofone can be found at Josh Wood Atelier. A huge fan of the new Elchim 3900 Healthy Ionic dryer, she takes it everywhere, from on set to backstage at Fashion Week. Here, Anna takes us through recreating these top looks for summer with the help of her trusty Elchim dryer... First prep the hair with L'Oréal tecni.art Full Volume Mousse and then use your fingers to rough dry your hair with your Elchim dryer. The dryer's super quick, reducing your usual drying time by up to 30%, which is perfect for those in a rush! It's also much kinder to hair in the summer months when it's more vulnerable to drying out. Then spray the roots with Batiste Dry Shampoo and plait the hair (French, side, fishtail - it's up to you!). Once you have plaited the hair, tease out a few tendrils with your fingers and twist to create texture. I also love adding Bumble and Bumble Chalk Spray Colours through the plait for an extra summery feel. Slept in Texture Lived-in locks are huge for summer; at Topshop Unique there was a rough, almost grungy take on the 'bed-head' look but at Balmain the waves were soft and sleepy. The key to making this look work is about balancing that undone look with a little polish. To achieve, spray the hair with Fudge Salt Spray before blasting with your dryer. To add movement use the dryer on a low heat and speed; take the random section of hair, directing the nozzle onto each section and bending the opposite way to create a tousled effect. To finish use Oribe Dry Texturising Spray to create that undone vibe. The Elchim 3900 Healthy Ionic Dryer comes in 7 shades: black/gold, black/silver, black, white, red, blue - all £95, and a special titanium edition at £109. www.salonsecrets.co.uk
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Midlife Madness Reality? Really?
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ike most people I do enjoy going out to all sorts of places and events; restaurants, dinner with friends, concerts, barn dances or any other excuse for dancing, even the odd quiz. But also, like many people, I thoroughly enjoy a night at home. A long, hot bath, pyjamas on early, a bottle (or 2) of wine, some home cooked food or a takeaway, (why do I persist in calling it a takeaway when I never take anything anywhere, why would I for goodness sake – I’m having a night in, that’s the point) and of course some quality TV.
dancing dogs, instruments played with the nose (or any other orifice) or people who juggle rolling pins whilst standing on their head and tossing a pancake! Then there are what I’d call the celebrity reality shows, you know the ones, the recipe is simple: get a few celebrities, put them together in a house or a jungle, or get them to learn to cook, dive, ice skate, or dance! Now sometimes that works and I must confess I have occasionally got drawn into the glamour of ballroom dancing because I simply love the outfits - all that glitter somehow draws me in. I don’t feel the same about celebrities in swimsuits, though I am sure others will disagree!
This is where my problem lies. Although I have satellite TV with literally hundreds of channels, it is almost a guarantee that if I decide to have a night in I will struggle to find something I really want to watch. The other night all I seemed able to find were reality TV programmes of one sort or another. In my mind they seem to fall into two distinct categories, ones that involve the public or those that involve ‘celebrities’.
The main problem I have with these ‘celebrity’ shows is the definition of celebrity. I guess if you are a fan of soaps then you simply ‘know’ a lot more of them, but as someone who avoids soaps and rarely watches sports I find if I do tune in to one of these shows I often don’t recognise any of the so called celebrities! If I was a fan of soaps or sport then perhaps I would feel differently, which I suppose means if I watched more TV, I could enjoy more TV – I guess there is a certain logic in that…….somewhere.
Those that involve the public seem based around getting them to do things that many of us have done ourselves, cooking, dieting, renovating or building houses, trying a new sport or completing some other sort of challenge, possibly even dealing with their challenging offspring! They may have dinner parties with strangers, go on dates, get married or even have surgery. If I am honest I will have to say that I have watched some of them but after a few minutes I either end up marvelling at the fact that somewhere, someone has decided that this is entertainment - to watch people doing what almost everyone has to do, cooking, managing our children, going on dates, (or has sensibly decided not to), building houses, leaping out of aeroplanes, etc.
So back to my night in. There I am in my comfy, as opposed to sexy, PJs, curry, chow mein or pizza almost arriving at the door and still no viewing plan. So I resort to the wonderful ‘planner’ only to find to my horror that my last episode of Grey’s Anatomy says ‘part recorded’ because ‘someone’ has dared to try and record something else (while also watching something different!) Panic rises, so it’s a DVD – a bit old school – and I’ve watched all the good ones on the shelf, or streaming a movie, which I have been told is really quite easy, but frankly I’m not convinced!
I may be tempted to make an exception for The X Factor or The Voice, (although the notion of someone becoming a ‘mentor’ because they have been on the show seems a bit like being a nurse because you have had an operation or becoming a lawyer when you have made an appearance in court!!) but BGT stops working for me with
As the doorbell rings, in desperation I turn on the radio – but NO it’s a blooming phone in – more of people like me ranting!!! Aaarrgghh! 24
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WIN! WIN! WIN! Hotel Chocolat Easter Treats From grown-up indulgence to treats for children, this year’s Easter range from Hotel Chocolat provides a hedonistic feast for the eyes as well as the palate. With some of the old favourites such as the Extra thick eggs and the huge Ostrich egg , as well as some new arrivals including Danny the City bunny, and gorgeous pastel Goose eggs, you’ll be spoilt for choice. We are offering FOUR lucky Affinity readers the chance to win some fabulous Easter Chocolate Delights from Hotel Chocolat, your prize will include: Easter Hamper
Big City Easter bunny
Easter Sleekster Selection To be in with a chance of winning tell us “the name of the New City Bunny?? And send your answers to info@affinitymag.co.uk – GOOD LUCK!
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Treatment of the Month
RégimA Peel Facial
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was slightly nervous about having the RegimA facial peel, only because the word PEEL automatically conjours up images of my skin being peeled off (I do have an over-active imagination)
I was expecting to look in the mirror and see a red face staring back at me, instead I was pleasantly surprised at my glowing youthful complexion, not only did it look great my skin felt fabulous.
Obviously, it’s nothing of the sort, The RegimA Facial Peel is basically an intense exfoliation which leaves your skin glowing and radiant, and promises dramatic, instant results. It is recommended for all skin types and most conditions including acne, pigmentation, scarring, and wrinkles, it can also be used on younger skins as an alternative acne treatment.
It is advised that you do not wash your face the night of your peel as the creams applied contain so many ingredients that are highly beneficial after an exfoliation. I was given a home care kit which contained a cleansing gel, serum, moisturizer and night renewal cream. Unlike many peels which thin the skin, the RégimA formula helps thicken the skin, making it much more youthful and healthy and less prone to cell changes. It contains an abundance of skin and scar healing ingredients blended with only pure, natural, unadulterated acids
The facial starts with the skin being cleansed three times to make sure all traces of make up and dirt are removed. Lauren, my therapist, then applied a post-laser gel around the delicate areas of my face – my nose, eyes and lips. This is done as these areas tend to be more sensitive than others and so it acts as a protection barrier.
Ideally, you should have a course of RegimA facial peels to achieve maximum results. By having regular peels your skin will become firmer, smoother, and more even in colour and texture - if this is how youthful my skin looks after just one treatment, imagine what it would look like after a few!
She then applied the fruit acid peel, she told me that I would feel a slight tingling, which I did but nothing that was unbearable. Once this was on she covered it with a post laser gel; this doesn’t affect the strength of the peel at all, it basically numbs the skin slightly to dull the tinglesensation.
Creating Beauty have various RegimA Facial Peel packages available and all their RegimA Facial Peel treatments include the home care kit, so you are guaranteed to get maximum benefit to your skin
This treatment is time dependent, and for someone like me who is having the peel for the first time, it is left on for ten minutes, lying with this on is just as relaxing as a normal facial.
I am a convert - this is a treatment I would highly recommend, I am counting the days until my next one! Prices start from £35
Once the peel had been on for ten minutes my skin was cleansed twice, thus making sure there was no peel left on my face.
To discuss your needs or to book a course contact : Creating Beauty
RegimA is a ‘layering’ brand, once the cleansing is complete a series of serums and creams are applied to hydrate and moisturize the skin. 28
Creating Beauty 88a Bedford Road, Kempston, MK42 8BG 01234 852901
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Imperial Blooming Tea Set £50 exoticteapot.co.uk
Neals Yard Frankinsence Nourishing Cream £24.75, nealsyardremedies.com
Evo Pure Trainers £90 vivobarefoot.co.uk
Standard Running Tights £50 roxy-uk.co.uk
Clinique Cheek Pop £16.50 Debenhams
Radley Willow Basket Cross Body Bag £49 radley.co.uk
Ted Baker Dress £149 Thackerrys Midsummer Place, MK
AFFINITY HOT PICKS This month’s must have gifts and accessories
Fake Bake Anti Ageing Facial Tanner £22 Marks & Spencer
Bach Rescue Remedy £5.49 bachflower.com
Converse Back to It Mini Backpack £24.99 converse.co.uk
Clinique Moisture Colour Corrector SPF25 £30 Debenhams
ECOYA Luxurious Reed Diffusers £45 Liberty of London
Paper Sailboat Necklace £40 Amusefashions.com
Vivienne Westwood Crazy Bear Watch £250 WatchShop.com
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April2014.qxp_Jan 2014 Aff 19/03/2014 22:37 Page 29
Twin Peaks Brunns Bazaar Sweater £150 House of Fraser
Red Herring Top £26 Debenhams
Red Herring Skirty £26 Debenhams River Island
Brunns Bazaar Skirt £150 House of Fraser
River Island
Red Herring £28 Debenhams
Hobbs
Top River Island
Square Top £32 ASOS
Kaye Top £119 Hobbs
Kaye Trousers £139 Hobbs
Red Herring Trousers £35 Debenhams
Shorts River Island
Square Skirt £38 ASOS
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Bling Beautiful Arizona Necklace £45 Monsoon
Gold & Crystal Necklace £40 Fiorelli
Casablanca Necklace £25 Accessorize
Gina Berry Necklace £25 iclothing
Connie Necklace £25 Accessorize
Chunky Necklace £70 Jaeger
Necklace £25 Marisota
Buterfly by Matthew Williamson £25 Debenhams
Gemstone Necklace £28 Sugar & Vice
Necklace £8 Primarkuk
Leonie Necklace £29 Phase Eight
Oslo Necklace£95 Stella & Dot
Pharaoh Necklace £29 Accessorize
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Sunny Shades Heart Shaped £12 ASOS
Alexander McQueen £251 My Optique Group
Gallop £35 Dune
Dune Y-Not-Taffy Chessboard £295 Oliver Goldsmith
Vogue £82 My Optique Group
Katherine Square £15 Accessorize
Pearl Catseye £12 F&F Vogue £93 My Optique Group
Sunglasses £17.50 Next
Natasha Aviator £15 Accessorize
Pumpkin Patch Ray Ban Justin £98 My Optique Group
April2014.qxp_Jan 2014 Aff 19/03/2014 22:37 Page 32
Are you on
Tinder?
Tinder, it’s the name on everyone’s lips, but what on earth is it? Basically it’s a simple-to-use dating app, launched in the US over a year ago – it’s now taking the UK by storm. It’s a well known fact that online dating works. Recent statistics tell us that one in four relationships in the UK now begin on the internet, and over 9 million of us are registered on a dating site. So what’s so different about Tinder?
Tinder allows you to find matches based on your location, so no trecking all the way to Scotland when you live in Brighton! It then lets you happily scroll through pictures picking the guys / girls that catch your eye – and ignoring the ones that don’t. There’s no lengthy profiles to read, you either think they’re Hot or Not! If you find someone who’s into you too, you can take it from there and start messaging.
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How it works Tinder is simple, which is part of its attraction. It finds your location by GPS then links to your Facebook profile to access your information your first name, age, photos (you choose) and some of your Facebook preferences. There’s space for a tag line as well. It then matches you to potential dates near you. It will tell you if you’ve got any Facebook friends or 'interests' in common. If any of them take your fancy, you swipe right to 'like' them. If not, go left to 'pass'. If they’ve also 'liked' you – YAY - it’s a match and you can start messaging. Pros It's quick - no spending hours writing and rewriting a profile. You can get started in about a minute.
It’s easy - you 'like' people the same way you would if you were out: you look, you like, you swipe! A little shallow? Maybe, but is it any different than what we do on a night out? References - the mutual friends function means people almost come with people who know them Use on the run – Tinder was designed for mobile users. The layout’s clear and simple. Ideal to use whilst on your lunch hour, waiting for a bus or standing in a queue at the supermarket.
No embarrassment - say you 'like' a ‘David Beckham’ lookalike, he’ll never know, unless he 'likes' you too. No unwanted emails – with Tinder only someone you’ve ‘liked’ can make contact with you, unlike most dating sites where anyone can message you.
Cons It’s so quick and easy to use that some users just use it as a shortcut to sex – but if you get any messages you don’t like, you can stop them by using the 'block' function. You can see when someone last logged on, so if that sexy gym instructor you’ve been messaging was online 20 minutes ago and ignored your message, you’ll know! It’s addictive - you have been warned! All that said Tinder say they have made over 100million matches since they launched and claim there have been 50 marriage proposals, so it obviously works for some. Our advice if you’re serious - stick at it! If you have a happy ending from using Tinder we’d love to hear from you
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Easter Eggcellence Silver Bunny Necklace £30 Lilycharmed.com
Chocolate Eggs Butlers Chocolates
Bunny Box with Chocolate Eggs £9 John Lewis
Classic Ostrich Egg £75 Hotel chocolat
Easter Hamper £39 Hotel Chocolat
Hazelnut Egg £19.99 Lindt
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Egg Marks & Spencer
Eggs Marks & Spencer
Easter Egg Box £26 Hotel Chocolat
Gold Bunny £2.99 Lindt
Hazelnut Bunny £2.99 Lindt
White Egg £28 Hotel Chocolat White Chocolate Gourmet Egg Butlers Chocolates
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The Best of Bedfordshire at
Paris House 38
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et within the vast Woburn Estate in Bedfordshire is Paris House, a beautiful fine dining restaurant set in 22 acres of stunning deer park on the Duke of Bedfordshire’s Woburn Estate. Originally built in 1878 in a timbered mock-Renaissance style in Paris. The 9th Duke of Bedford then bought the house and shipped it piece-bypiece to the UK, where he reconstructed it in Woburn Park. Since then it has enjoyed a vividly colourful history on the Woburn Estate before becoming a restaurant in 1983. In January 2014 Paris House was bought by the businesses’ award winning head chef Phil Fanning. The restaurant is now managed as a family business by Fanning and his wife Claire, backed by father-in-law and businessman Nik Millard. And so it was on a cold, wet Friday evening we went along to experience the fine dining of Paris house for ourselves. Phil was hosting a one off gala evening to celebrate the regions best food producers and to launch his new tasting menu. Featuring the crème de la crème of local food suppliers including Aylesbury Escargot, Mrs Middleton’s Oil, Redborne School Farm, HoneyMan, Wodehill, Stotfold Mill, Woburn Estate – Venison and Game products, Woburn Country Foods, Best Butchers and Wobbly Bottom Farm. The exquisite Tasting Menu, featured courses such as ‘Snail Garden’, ‘Eggs and Bacon’ the ‘Woburn Venison’ and ‘Ivy Honey & Blackcurrant Cheesecake’. Each course was complimented by a very British traditional drink, my favourite being the Nettle Cider! The atmosphere was warm, friendly and relaxing, and the food innovative and divine. Phil and his team have preserved the building’s colourful heritage, whilst introducing a relaxed, stylish ambience, introducing varied menus carefully combining the finest local and seasonal produce with modern culinary techniques. Phil told us “I am thrilled to have launched the Gala Evening and Bedfordshire’s Finest Menu. Without the commitment and passion of local producers, it would be impossible for us at Paris House to produce the exciting and innovative food
and drink that we pride ourselves on, because good food needs great suppliers. 50% of our success is down to our suppliers and we wanted to acknowledge what they mean to us, which is why it was crucial for us to honour those in Bedfordshire and the surrounding areas who make this success happen. Each course on the Tasting Menu encompasses what Paris House is all about and we look forward to serving our customers the new courses of locally sourced produce from this April.” This fabulous evening drew to a close with a little fun in the form of a snail race in the restaurant, courtesy of Aylesbury Escargot – unfortunately for me my snail didn’t even get off the starting line up! Paris House certainly didn’t disappoint, the whole dining experience was fabulous - Fine Dining at its finest, the food is beautifully presented as well as perfectly cooked, with great ideas, executed to perfection. A place you definitely have to experience at least once in your life! 01525 290 692 www.parishouse.co.uk
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Warm Thai Noodle Salad 40
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“
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With only 336 calories per serving this delicious recipe allows you to enjoy your food whilst keeping the calories down!
Ingredients
2 large boneless chicken breasts 175g dried medium egg noodles 2 good handfuls of chinese leaf lettuce (or any other), shredded 2 carrots cut into thin strips 8 spring onions, finely sliced 1 red pepper, deseeded and finely sliced handful fresh coriander leaves Dressing 1 red chilli, deseeded and finely chopped 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped 1 tbsp finely chopped fresh root ginger 2 tbsp soy sauce juice 1 lime 1 1/2 tbsp olive oil
Method Preheat the grill to high. Put the chicken on a baking sheet and grill for 10-12 minutes without turning, and until cooked through. Cook the noodles according to the packet instructions, drain and rinse in cold running water to prevent them sticking together. Mix all the veg in a bowl, thinly slice the chicken and add to the bowl along with the noodles and coriander Mix the dressing with 2 tbsp water. Pour over salad and toss well. Serve immediately.
For more delicious low calorie recipes visit Nutracheck.co.uk
Casillero del Diablo Devil’s Collection White This enticing white blend is created using Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay and a touch of Gewürztraminer. With notes of pineapple, citrus and peach the Devil’s Collection White is the perfect wine for Spring drinking. Match it with fragrant Thai salads or grilled fish suppers for a dangerously delicious treat.
Casillero del Diablo Devil’s Collection Red A rich blend of Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon and Carmenere, tantalise your tastebuds with flavours of plums, black cherry and a touch of dark chocolate. Delectable when paired with rich meat dishes like Spaghetti Bolognaise and Chilli con Carne. £8.99 Tesco and ASDA.com
Barefoot Bubbly £8.99, Tesco and Pink Moscato ASDA.com A surprise and delight at first sip This Pink Moscato sparkler has aromas of red apples and cherries, complemented by a luscious, lingering sweet finish. Enjoy with fresh fruits, white cheeses and sorbet. Fruity and fizzy with peach, tropical cherry and raspberry flavours and light floral aromas £9.99 Tesco
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Ingredients
Treacle Sponge
250g golden syrup 5 tbsp breadcrumbs 200g Salted butter, softened 200g golden caster sugar 3 medium eggs 200g self-raising flour 5 tbsp milk
Method
Heat oven to 180C/160C fan/gas 4. Mix the syrup, lemon zest, juice and breadcrumbs and spread over the base of a 1.5 litre baking dish. Beat the butter and sugar until pale and fluffy, then beat in the eggs, one by one. Stir in the flour and milk and dollop over the syrup. Bake for 35-40 mins until golden and risen, and a skewer poked into the sponge comes out clean-ish. Eat with lots of custard, cream or ice cream and extra dribbles of syrup.
This sweet is brought to you by the Chef at The Millhouse Hotel Riverside Restaurant, Sharnbrook, Beds
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Next Pudding Nights!
Media Telesales Executive Required
Friday 25th April Friday 2nd May Only £15.00 for a main course and unlimited puds!
Easter Sunday – 20th April
Get the family together for Easter! Plus Easter egg hunt for the children! Only 2 courses £16.95, 3 courses £20.95 Serving 12pm-9pm
The Magic of Concorde – 30th May
Back by popular demand, Les Evans returns with the ‘Magic of Concorde.’ Les Evans was lucky enough to fly the last Concorde from London to New York in October 2003 Enjoy a 3 course meal and guest speaker for just £20.00
Remember! *Serving food all day, everyday from 12pm til 9pm*
*Sunday Lunches* 2 courses- £15.95 3 courses £19.95
*We are still doing “Buy 1 get 1 free” on main courses every Tuesday all day, 12pm- 9pm!*
Afternoon Teas
We are seeking a highly motivated sales person to join our expanding team here at Affinity and be part of this luxury lifestyle brand. You will be required to sell advertising space within our magazines. Sales experience would be although applications from outgoing individuals who organised, professional and achieve targets are welcome.
The vacancy is on a self employed, commission only basis with great earning potential for the right applicant, hours are negotiable on a part or full time basis. So if you are someone who is hungry and can achieve targets, then we want to hear from you. Please Contact: Jane Fry (Editor) jane@affinitymag.co.uk
01234 781678 info@millhouse-riverside.co.uk www.millhouse-riverside.co.uk millhouse_hotel Millhouse Hotel and Riverside Restaurant Mill Road, Sharnbrook, Bedford MK44 1NP
preferred confident, are well driven to
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Let’s visit
ThePantry 44
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hether it’s a drink and bite to eat with friends, a family get together, a business meeting or just the two of you, we have found the perfect place - The Higgins Pantry hidden away in the heart of the buzzing Castle Quay area of Bedford. Arriving at The Pantry we are greeted by a warm friendly waiter who showed us to our table and took our drinks order whilst we contemplated the delicious looking menu. Everything looked tempting and it was proving a difficult choice, so in the end we decided on a selection of tapas, so we could tempt our tastebuds with an array of flavours. Our selection included pan fried chicken with herb & sautéed peppers, grilled baby lamb chops, deep fried calamari & prawns, baked courgette with goats cheese, homemade baked aubergine ‘parmigiana’, baby calzone filled with ragu & mozzarella, marinated fresh seafood, and sautéed giant king prawns with tomatoes. All the dishes were freshly cooked, with fresh ingredients, presentation was perfect and tasted superb. My favourite though, if I had my arm twisted and had to choose one, was the baked courgette with goats cheese, it was exquisite, and if you are a lover of seafood like my husband the marinated fresh seafood salad is an absolute must! Aside from the large selection of tapas, the rest of the menu is genuine Italian in the form of pasta dishes and to die for authentic stonebaked pizzas. Nothing is too much trouble with all tastes being accommodated for. The waiting staff and chef checking everything is OK with your food. Desserts for us could be nothing other than ice cream (well when in Rome!), hazelnut and mint choc chip were our indulgences and they certainly hit the spot, being creamy, full of flavour and a perfect end to a fabulous dining experience. Not only is the food mouthwateringly delicious at The Pantry it is also very reasonably priced. The Pantry is a hidden gem right in the middle of Bedford, try once and you’ll find yourself returning time and time again. 01234 276340 www.thehigginspantry.co.uk
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Spring has Sprung
Next
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Velvet Cushion £16 Next
Aylsham Cushion £70 Fermoie Just Be Print £59 Oliver Bonas
Cushion £14 Next
Botanical Tea Towels £15 Next Magnetic Apple Memo Board - £9.00 Tch
Candle £6 Berry Red Photoframe £12 Sainsburys
Recycled Glass Vase £5 John Lewis
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Wooden Candlestick Holder £16 Berry Red
Leaf Plate £3.50 Marks & Spencer
Knitted Pod £70 Next
Oversized Vase £69 Marks & Spencer
Chair £199 Next
Love Word £10 Next
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Easter style Bunny Egg Cup £8.50 Laura Lee Designs
Bunny Framed Print £29 Each Home Candy
Coasters £13.50 Home Candy
Egg Print £39.50 Marks & Spencer
Spotted Hen Ceramic Jug £11.99 Mollie & Fred Gisela Graham
Ceramic Bunny Egg Cup £3.99 Mollie & Fred Gisela Graham
Rabbit Timer £6 Paperchase
Set of Two Wooden Standing Hen Decorations Gisela Graham Wooden Pastel Happy Easter Garland - £9.00 Gisela Graham
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Easter Bunting £5 Marks & Spencer
Bunny Ear Napkin Rings - £4.50 each Gisela Graham
Easter Egg Hunt Wooden Arrow - £6.00 tch Gisela Graham
Hare Teapot £39.99 Aston Pottery Salt & Pepper Set £16 Oliver Bonas
Ceramic Chicken £10.00 Tesco
Standing Metal Bunnies £3.99 MyGiftTree
Quail Ceramics Hare Toast Rack £23.99 Cotswold Trading
Personalised Vintage Style Easter Sign £25 Vintage Living
Wooden Chick Hook £9.99 Retreat Home
Yellow Duckling Cushion £32 Skandivis
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Outdoor Luxe Turn your garden into another living space with these must have accessories
Garden Sign £3 Sainsburys
Garden Candle Holder £34.95 MiaFleur
Pig Watering Can £10 Sainburys
Wire Hen £12 Sainsburys
Weathervane £29.50 Marks & Spencer
Decorative Planter £15 Marks & Spencer Fleur De Lis Plant Pot £8.95 MiaFleur Glass Ball Lanterns £16 each MiaFleur
Spiral Ball Topiary £49.50 Marks & Spencer
Small Glass and Metal Lantern £19.50 Marks & Spencer Slimline Shed £299.95 House of Bath
Tool Hanger £15 Marks & Spencer
April2014.qxp_Jan 2014 Aff 19/03/2014 22:40 Page 55
G. Butler
Loft and Garage Conversion Specialist We will provide a service from planning to completion █ █ █ █ █ █
Over 23 years experience Free quotes Professional advice Design, planning & construction available All work fully insured Local business
01234 327205 07801 880557 www.loftconversionsbedfordshire.co.uk
The space above your head is the room you have always dreamed of
April2014.qxp_Jan 2014 Aff 19/03/2014 22:40 Page 56
All About...
April2014.qxp_Jan 2014 Aff 19/03/2014 22:40 Page 57
Mick Hutson
We caught up with Mick Hutson, Photographer and Director of Rock City Art in Bedford, who has a new exhibition starting on 29th March entitled “A Celebration – 25 Years”
Age: 47 ( did I really just say that ? )
Occupation: Photographer and Director of Rock City Art Gallery/Artwork Describe yourself in three words? Idealistic loyal creative
You can’t leave the house without? My tattoos
Your top three movies? Crank, Pulp Fiction, Bambi
If you could meet anyone in the world dead or alive who would it be and what would say to them? Michael Jackson .. it all went wrong when you got that monkey.
What makes you stand out in a crowd? An overloud laugh and I think I see things differently
If I take a look in your fridge what would I find? Something by Marks & Spencer
What do you do to relax? Gym and press the snooze button 6 times
If you were a biscuit what would you be? Jammy Dodger
Your most extravagant purchase and why? There’s been loads and mostly for reasons that I now find difficult to comprehend
Who is your inspiration/role model? My Grandad
If you could be anyone or anything what would it be? ME.. on a beach in the Bahamas
What is the one gadget you couldn't live without? A real film camera
Describe your ideal woman? A 5ft 7ins pole dancing hairdresser with a sense of humour that makes Harry Hill sound completely normal!
Where do you see yourself in ten years? On a beach in the Bahamas with sunscreen, Top Gear magazine and the hairdressing pole dancing comedienne!
If you were stranded on a desert island, what three items would you take with you? Sunscreen, Top Gear magazine and the woman above
www.rockcityart.com
What would you do if you had a time machine? Go back to the day before I got married
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Stripe Trilby £12 Next
Ahoy Sailor
Linea Chino Shorts £45 House of Fraser Jumper £16 Matalan
House of Fraser Glasses £20 sunglassjunkie
Shirt £22 Asos Boat Shoes River Islandr
Chino Shoerts £14 Matalan
Hammond & Co £30 Debenhams
Shirt River Island
Red Herring 322 Debenhams
£spadrille £39.99 Office
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Fry’s Footie Corner A
Cheek Clenching Time!
s we come to the end of the season, which is a very nervous time for all clubs challenging for promotion or fighting to stave off relegation, there is plenty to play for in every division. There will be some unexpected results along the way.
are alarmingly in danger of suffering relegation. Luton Town have had many years out of the Football League, but it looks like they will win promotion back as they are comfortable at the top going into the final few fixtures. If you look at the Premier League, suffering relegation would be a disaster because staying in the league is allegedly worth £100m. Now although you will get parachute payments should you suffer relegation, financially that is a big burden to take.
The Premier League title race is the closest that it has ever been with up to four sides in with a realistic chance of winning the Championship. Chelsea, Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester City are all fighting it out and it is without doubt, the closest title race in many years.
For us at Peterborough, when we were relegated from the Championship, we lost £5 million and that is a big challenge to work within your reduced budget. Attendances up and down the country are on the slide and the commercial revenue is also down as we battle through the recession.
Down the bottom, it is just as exciting with any three from nine clubs fighting to avoid the drop. It will go down to the wire. This is very exciting, but very nervewracking for the teams involved, for the players, management, fans and directors alike.
It all adds up to an exciting finale across the divisions because it is not just on the pitch that clubs want success, success off it is just as important.
The mad scramble to get into the Promised Land of the Premier League is clearer than it has been for several seasons with Leicester City way out in front and Burnley, a team that nobody fancied at the start of the campaign, looking to follow the Foxes into the top division.
Barry Fry
This is great for the game because I would imagine the budget constraints that Burnley are working under is among the smallest in the division. There are around eight teams fighting for that coveted play-off spot. Relegation from the Championship would be disastrous and at the time of writing, it looks like three teams from four will fall through the trap door. In League One, there is a three-horse race for two automatic promotion places and that has been the case for much of the season. Obviously one will drop into the play-off positions and you have to say that Rotherham United and Preston are almost there. At Peterborough, we find ourselves in sixth place, but as I said before, nerves can play a part towards the end of the campaign. At the other end of the table, there are probably seven clubs fighting to stay in the division, so there is plenty of clubs scrapping for their lives. Three clubs are automatically promoted from League Two and Rochdale, Scunthorpe and Chesterfield look to have secured those places. This particular division is so tight and every club will fancy their chances of reaching the play-offs if they can go on a decent run. Northampton Town and Torquay United are fighting to stay in the Football League. Even Portsmouth, with an average attendance of over 15,000 – a team that played in the Premier League four years ago and won the FA Cup, 62
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C&B Home and Garden Maintenance One o jobs to regular maintenance For all your home and garden needs
For a friendly reliable service and a free quote give us a call on 07531 491019 c-bmaintenance@hotmail.co.uk
April2014.qxp_Jan 2014 Aff 19/03/2014 22:41 Page 62
The Start of a New Legend
LAMBORGHINI L
An innovative cockpit dominates the interior. The 12.3inch TFT display can be configured in a number of different modes and provides the driver with all key information in a virtual format. The slender lines of the instrument mounts and the center tunnel are indicative of the lightness of the interior design. Fine materials distinguish the interior, which can be extensively individualized, while the extremely detailed craftsmanship delivers a highly refined sense of quality.
amborghini is taking a major step into the future: with the newly developed Huracรกn LP 610-4, the successor to the highly successful Gallardo, the Italian super sports car manufacturer is redefining the benchmark in the segment. With its pure and absolute design, breathtaking dynamics and excellent quality, the Huracรกn delivers an unparalleled sports car experience. It unites mighty performance with a character perfectly suited to everyday use; its wide-ranging new technologies work together in a fully integrated fashion.
The newly conceived hybrid chassis of the Huracรกn LP 610-4 is a technical work of art that unites carbon-fiber and aluminum components. The ultralight chassis forms the basis for the vehicle's low dry weight of 1,422 kilograms; with its excellent stiffness, it guarantees the handling precision of a racing car
With 14,022 units produced, the Gallardo is the most successful Lamborghini model ever made. During its tenyear production run, it took the brand into a completely new dimension. In true Lamborghini tradition, the successor to the Gallardo also takes its name from the world of bullfighting: Huracรกn was a fighting bull of the Spanish Conte de la Patilla breed who fought in August 1879 in Alicante. His unyielding character made him invincible.
The new V10 engine in the Huracรกn generates its phenomenal propulsion from a displacement of 5.2 litres. It produces a power output of 448 kW / 610 hp at 8,250 64
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HURACAN track, can be selected using a drive select switch in the steering wheel. The system is called ANIMA (Italian for Soul)
rpm and a maximum torque of 560 Nm at 6,500 rpm. The new "Iniezione Diretta Stratificata" combines direct and indirect injection - achieving an increase in power and torque compared with the Gallardo and a decrease in fuel consumption and emissions.
The wheels of the Lamborghini Huracán measure 20 inches in diameter, with the standard-fit carbon-ceramic brake system delivering exceptional stopping power. As an option, Lamborghini offers its new luxury super sports car with the Lamborghini Dynamic Steering variable steering system and MagneRide electromagnetic damper control. Both of these features are also integrated into ANIMA.
With its power-to-weight ratio of just 2.33 kilograms per hp, the Lamborghini Huracán achieves absolutely breathtaking performance. The top speed of more than 325 km/h and the acceleration figures - zero to 100 km/h in 3.2 seconds, zero to 200 km/h in 9.9 seconds - offer an indication of its dynamics. Thanks in part to the Stop & Start technology, ECE average fuel consumption has dropped to 12.5 liters per 100 km (290 g CO2 per km).
The Lamborghini Huracán LP 610-4 celebrated its show premiere at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show in March, with customer delivery scheduled to start in spring 2014.
The power generated by the ten-cylinder is delivered to the road via the new 7-speed dual-clutch transmission "Lamborghini Doppia Frizione" (LDF) and an all-wheel drive that also features a new hydraulic multi-plate clutch. Three different driving modes, spanning from road to race
The Huracán is priced at 169,500.00 Euros (Approx £140,000), excluding taxes. I’ll have two then! 65
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Classic Car Show
The annual classic car show will be filling the countryside with the sound of growling engines later this month when it returns to The Sharnbrook Hotel on Sunday 11th May. If you’re a car enthusiast this is your chance to get your gleaming classic out of the garage and bring it along to let us all appreciate the beauty, as well as getting caught up in the nostalgia of it all. This annual event attracts a variety of Vintage, Americana, Classic and Sports Cars as well as Motorcycles. If you have an interesting car over 25 years old – therefore built/registered before 1988, please email Ciro at info@thesharnbrookhotel.com to register your vehicle and therefore gain free entry to the event for the car, driver & passengers. All that is needed is your name, contact number & vehicle make & model. The day proves a wonderful local family day out with a Pig Roast & BBQ as well as Bouncy Castle and Fairground Ride for the younger children. If you love your Grand Prix, the Spanish GP will be shown on the huge screens with full surround sound in The Amalfi Suite whilst you enjoy the VesuviO all day Sunday lunch. So if you’re looking for a great day out to admire the cars of yesteryear and enjoy a day with family or friends, the gates open at 11am until 3pm, with a nominal cost of £3 per adult – children under 12 go free! 01234 783142/info@thesharnbrookhotel.com www.thesharnbrookhotel.com
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Learning to limit those
‘Limiting Beliefs’ 68
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hether we acknowledge it or not we all choose to do certain things, and not do others, because of our inner beliefs. Some of these beliefs are accurate, valid and useful - acknowledgement of our skills, training or qualifications will lead us to apply for appropriate jobs for example. Others however may effectively ‘limit’ our lives in all sorts of ways.
shoe box refusing to look at them, because they hate dealing with money. The outcome may well be lots of additional charges which will further strengthen their belief about themselves.
What are the roots of Limiting Beliefs? The roots of these beliefs lie in the past. They may stem from some early experiences, for example an adult who feels they are no good at Maths because that’s what they were told, or what they inferred themselves from comments made by parents, teachers or others. As they get older a repeating cycle occurs and eventually they will avoid any situation involving the need for Maths. Sometimes these beliefs don’t stem from childhood but from experiences we have had as adults. A few failed attempts at dieting can make us believe we’ll never be thin, a few disastrous relationships may lead us to believe we’ll never find someone to be happy with.
Although many of our actions are under our conscious control we also have a lot of sub conscious ‘drivers’, and it is in this area of the subconscious that many of our limiting beliefs operate. Sometimes we might know they exist, but they have been part of us for so long that we just work our way round them the way we might step over a squeaky floorboard without thinking about it. At other times we may not even be aware of their existence.
What is a limiting belief? A limiting belief is simply something that you believe about yourself which then puts a limit on your abilities or actions. An example would be a person who believes they always perform badly at interviews. This may be completely unfounded or it may be it was true on one occasion. That doesn’t mean it will be true next time, unless of course we believe it. A person with this sort of belief will avoid interviews or work themselves into such a stress beforehand that it does become true. The problem with limiting beliefs is that our sub conscious, if we let it, is looking for ways to reinforce those beliefs, to provide evidence. Take a look at the list of common limiting beliefs below and see if any resonate with you. • I’ll never be rich. • I’ll never be happy. • I’m no good at social situations. • People don’t really like me. • I’m no good at Maths. • Things will always go wrong for me. • I’m never the lucky one. • I’m no good with money. • I’ll never manage to lose weight. • No-one could ever love me • I always mess up my relationships.
How can I recognise my limiting beliefs? Often our limiting beliefs reveal themselves as an inner voice whispering what are effectively lies. It’s the voice that says “Who are you kidding you’ll never manage that!” “Why bother it’ll never work” “Look at you you’ve failed again!” “You aren’t any good at that!”
Again these are just a few examples, the list is endless. The other way you can identify these beliefs is looking at those things you decide you’ll do but then you don’t. The actions you are definitely going to take but then don’t. Ask yourself if there was a reason, probably you had doubts, or maybe something just sapped your motivation. So next time you hear that voice make a note of exactly what it is saying and what the belief actually is. This is the first step in freeing yourself of these beliefs.
How do I get rid of these Limiting Beliefs? Generally it is wise to tackle them one by one, though if there is one central belief that is very powerful sometimes tackling that can get rid of several others – “I’m just no good” will lead to lots of other sub beliefs.
These are just a few, there could be any number and, of course, one individual may have a number of limiting beliefs operating at any one time.
If you identify a limiting belief, ask yourself where it came from and you may well remember a specific incident that was the beginning of it. Then find evidence that it isn’t true. Often the incident may have happened but then ‘fear’ of a repetition has caused us to limit ourselves. Quite simply you don’t have to believe it and continuing to do so will stop you living to your full potential. Write down some positive things to replace those negative beliefs, even if you write them as ‘possibilities’ - “I can lose weight, do Maths, be attractive” etc.
What is the impact of a limiting belief? Quite simply these beliefs limit you. They stop you doing some of the things you’d like to do – even though they may be untrue or exaggerated. Imagine that someone believes they are not very attractive, often it won’t matter how many people tell them that is not the case, if they believe it – it is simply true for them. That belief may impact how they dress, and present themselves, but more importantly it will have a negative impact on the ‘energy’ they give off, the message they give to others. That message will usually be ‘don’t bother with me because I’m not worth it’. Of course they won’t say this but the message will be given nonetheless and their belief becomes self-fulfilling.
Finally In some ways those beliefs are patterns in our brains that have been repeated, but they can be changed. You can live the life you want, you can be successful and happy. No one needs to live with limiting beliefs, so for help and advice to overcome them contact: attunededucation.com
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Welcome to the musings of Yummy Mummy. Living in Bedford she is married to ‘The Husband’ and together they have 4 children - Rafferty, 9, Violet, 7, Roman, 5 and Clementine, 1. All my views are my own and are not intended to offend anyone but alas I may frustrate you as I certainly do myself and no doubt those around me at times. I would love to hear from you, your views, questions or indeed just to share your experiences of trying to be a Yummy Mummy. Email me at info@affinitymag.co.uk
Dining out – with the children! Before I had children I, of course, never took any notice of possible local eateries that would be suitable for small people. However all that had to change with the arrival of the first born. I have, and always will like to eat and drink out. whether it is a sumptuous seven course tasting menu at Claridges (OK I am showing off here, we went there once a long time ago), a meal or Sunday lunch out or even just to pop out for a coffee. But when armed with a pushchair, a changing bag the size of a small suitcase and not forgetting the baby who will be very vocal if it cannot be fed or changed in suitable surroundings. Of course the ideal scenario for this is to time the visit when the little one is fast asleep in the pushchair, so you can enjoy coffee and cake in peace, but you know that as soon as you have stopped wheeling them along, they immediately wake up. So I needed a place that not only served nice food and coffee for me but who also had facilities to warm up the baby food and milk – and without the confusing health and safety jargon as to why they couldn’t! Debenhams comes up trumps here with their microwave, feeding pots, bibs and plastic spoons and their toasted sandwiches (for me) are delicious! You then progress onto the toddler and child stage and you can order for your little ones rather than bring your own mush! Now, I am not the ‘food police’ but I want the children to have a healthy and varied diet that does include ‘treats’ in moderation and what I don’t want is plates of deep fried ‘beige’ food – nuggets and chips seem a frequent option. I have nothing against nuggets, however all my children 70
don’t like them! It can’t be too hard to knock up a simple plate of pasta? We cook our Bolognese sauce in bulk and defrost in the microwave in the time it takes the pasta to boil – it is wholemeal pasta of course!!!!! Luckily alot of places are wising up to abolishing the ‘children’s menu’ and I’m pleased that local restaurants like The Embankment and d’Parys will do half size adult portion instead. I like the children to eat what we are eating and will encourage this wherever possible whether at home or out. Of course we do have times at home where they will eat before us, as sometimes ‘The Husband’ and I will wait until they are all in bed and we can eat in peace! And I get him to cook it too! We have always encouraged the children to try new foods and on the whole they are very good at it. We did learn from when they were a young age to make sure that they were really hungry before you offered them something new. A few times we have been caught out on this and they have just looked at what was given to them, the most vile looking offering and even before a mere morsel passed their lips, they have declared it’s disgusting! However on the whole they are good with their food and eat a balanced diet with some treats, as we like to think we lead from a very good example. We just drink the wine and eat the family size bag of crisps when they are in bed!
Yummy Mummy
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Easter Hunt White Chocolate Bunny Marks & Spencer
Easter Bunny Cookie Bag £3.50 Tesco dotcomgiftshop
.50
s £7 nie bun olat r e t hoc Eas tel otel C H Pas
Carrot with Chocolate Eggs £4.50 John Lewis
Pull Along Wooden Rabbit £13.75 mainlybaby Ltd
Petal Bunny £7.75 Paperchase
Big City Bunny £8 Hotel Chocolat You Crack Me Up £28 Hotel Chocolat Nodding Animals £2.50 Paperchase
Moulin Roty Tiny Rabbit £14 For Little Ones LTD
Easter Gingerbread £1 Tesco
Easter Canvas Bag £4.50 tch
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Treasured Tylney Hall
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gardens. What could be more quintessentially English than a selection of blended teas, home-made sandwiches, cakes and scones smeared with strawberry jam and clotted cream, all served on the finest bone china and absolutely delicious.
ylney Hall is an independently owned country house hotel in the depths of the beautiful Hampshire countryside, full of aristocratic charm, warmth and generous hospitality. The beautiful Grade Two listed mansion house sits in 66 acres of quintessentially English landscaped gardens, woodlands and lakes.
Dinner that evening was in the AA awarded two rosette beautiful Oak Room Restaurant. Our table was in the corner next to a roaring log fire. Service was impeccable and the menu choices were exquisite boasting both seasonal specialities and signature dishes with everything being prepared to order. The cuisine is complemented by a carefully chosen wine list all adding to a memorable dining experience.
On arrival you are swept along a tree-lined Avenue before the magnificent house appears, its full beauty slowly revealed as you drive through the trees that frame the approach. Walking into the main Hall, with its stunning oak panelled reception, magnificent staircase, period lounges and drawing rooms transports you into an era of days gone by.
After dinner we enjoyed a walk around the spectacular gardens, before returning to our suite for a refreshing nights sleep.
Our suite took our breath away, bright and spacious with a separate lounge with dining area and work desk. Full of character and with stunning views of the gardens, it was a little world unto itself, decorated and furnished individually with period pieces to enhance its own particular charm - pure luxury.
Breakfast the next morning was, of course the same high standards we had become used to during our stay at Tylney Hall. Tylney Hall is renowned for its striking beauty, romantic atmosphere and idyllic setting. With its relaxed and friendly service, a stay here is an experience you will savour and remember forever.
If you really want to push the boat out then you need to stay in the Duke and Duchess Suites which are unashamedly luxurious with wood panelled walls, four poster beds and whirlpool baths. We spoilt ourselves with afternoon tea which we took in the Grey Lounge looking out onto the magnificent
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Tylney Hall Rotherwick, Hook, Hampshire, RG27 9AZ 01256 764881 www.tylneyhall.com
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Mindbender, miracle man or master magician? One thing is clear – Derren Brown is a charming and exceptionally clever entertainer.
derrenbrown.co.uk
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is new show Infamous, is breathtaking and impressive and is assuredly a masterwork.
The show promises to demonstrate once again why Derren is one of the world’s most renowned live performers; a dark manipulator of magic and mind control. Infamous, is a more ‘personal’ show, and Derren is re-united with his close collaborator and friend, actor, writer Andy Nyman. Derren told us “Now we’ve joined forces again, we’re very eager to make this show feel different. There was something of a template we followed with all the shows, which
worked very well. It’s rather exciting and scary leaving that behind. This one should certainly have a different tone, and will mix things up a bit for those who have seen the others on TV or live.' The delightful thing about Brown is that he is so likeable, he has the whole audience on his side and there is such a how/wow factor in what he does that you leave the auditorium completely baffled . He tells us that what we see are illusions, but we convince ourselves he is a master magician; however frequently he claims that we are witnessing tricks rather than psychic powers, the more we are astonished.
Infamous is Derren’s 6th show since 2003. He has toured every year since then and been watched by an estimated audience of over 2 million people. He has won two prestigious Olivier Awards, for Something Wicked This Way Comes (2006) and Svengali (2012), and confesses that touring is still his favourite thing to do. Infamous is definitely an example of a charismatic and superb showman at the top of his game, and will be as memorable as anything you are likely to see this year. Milton Keynes Theatre Mon 14th – Sat 19th April 0844 871 7652 www.atgtickets.com/miltonkeynes
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What’s on April 2014
Sat 5th April Fairtrade Easter Eggstravaganza 1.30pm St. Andrew’s Church Centre, Kimbolton Road Bedford. Face painting, chocolate meditation, crafts and Fairtrade products, Real Easter Eggs Admission £2 adults, children 50p
Neverland with Peter and Wendy meeting Lost Boys, Indians and the villainous Captain Hook - not forgetting his silly sidekick Smee! Why not add to the fun and dress as your favourite character? There will be a special prize for the best dressed and everyone will have the chance to meet the cast after the show. With enchanting songs, plenty of fun and laughter and a sprinkling of fairy dust, this is the perfect way to make literature come alive for the whole family. 01234 718044 www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk
Mon 7th – Thurs 10th April Easter ’Riddler Stickler’; Cars and Cream Teas Stondon Motor Museum, Lower Stondon, Henlow, Beds A chance to come and explore our amazing collection of vehicles, enjoy a cream tea and if you like join in the Easter ‘riddler stickler’; solve riddles around the vehicles and complete your sticker sheet to win an Easter treat. Hunt for the clues & find the Easter funnies and bunnies around the museum for a fun packed family outing. Quote 'Riddler' at the entrance to join the Easter ‘Riddler Stickler’ fun for free with your entry fee, and you also get one child entry for just £1 with each full paying adult (£7.50). www.motor-museum.co.uk
Mon 14th April Hares Hidden Treasure Marston Vale Forest Centre Hear about the jewelled hare and hidden treasure. Make your own treasure map of the park. Where would you choose to bury treasure? £2.50 per child – booking essential - Parental supervision required. Sessions are approximately 45 minutes long www.marstonvale.org
Mon 7th – Fri 18th April Easter Treats 10am – 4pm Frosts Garden Centre, Woburn Sands This Easter, children can come along for a fun two-part Easter themed activity – which includes chocolate of course! Children will begin with an ‘Easter Hunt’ that will lead them around the Garden Centre to certain points, each one with a clue leading to the next. This will guide them to the party room where they will be greeted by the Easter Bunny and receive their chocolate prize. The second part of the activity is Easter egg decorating; each child will get their very own chocolate Easter egg which they can embellish with icing and sweets. They will be provided with decorative tissue paper and a box to take it safely home in. The activity is suitable for children of all ages Tickets cost £5.99 (which includes refreshments) - available from the Garden Centre or online. www.frostsgardencentres.co.uk
Tues 15th – Sat 19th April The Circus is Back in Town Frosts Garden Centre, Willington, Beds The award winning John Lawson’s Circus voted ‘Best Small Circus’, will make its return to Frosts at Willington Garden Centre this Easter. With an entirely human cast and featuring new acts and routines including Miss Monika from Hungary with her aerial skills, Miss Georgia from Romania on the aerial rope, Ross on the rola rola, Spiderman on the cloud swing and no Circus would be complete without plenty of clowning around! This enthralling show lasts an hour and tickets are available to purchase from the Garden Centre, online or call 0800 954 9484 £5.99 per person www.frostsgardencentres.co.uk
Fri 18th – Mon 21st April Children’s Easter Hunt Trail and activity weekend 11.30pm – 3.00pm RSPB, The Lodge, Sandy Follow the Easter Trail and spot all of the pictures hidden in the woodland with a crème egg to collect when you finish! If the weather is fine, join in at the drop - in activity table and create some fantastic nature art with your images of Easter. Trail sheet £2 01767 680541
Weds 9th April Bedford Local Group of the Wildlife Trust 7.30pm Priory Park Visitors Centre, Bedford An illustrated Talk by Colin Carpenter entitled The Natural History of Bumblebees. 01234 266057 www.wildlifebcn.org Fri 11th April Clairvoyant Evening with Lesley Parker and Caroline Tobin Wyboston Village Hall Doors open at 6:45pm, £4.50 to include refreshments www.wybostonvillagehall.com
Sun 13th April Peter Pan – The Musical Bedford Corn Exchange Second star to the right and straight on 'til morning! A spectacular musical adaptation of the timeless tale about the boy who never grows up. Let your imagination take you to
Sun 20th April 3rd Classic Rally & Autojumble Old Warden Aerodrome, Shuttleworth, Biggleswade, Beds An enthusiasts’ paradise at the historic home of the famous Shuttleworth Collection. Classic Cars on display from the 50's 60' 70's 80's with live commentary throughout the day. Show admission included entrance to the show and children's play area, discounted entry to the Collection for all show visitors. Adults £8 Children £4 (4-16 years) www.classicmotorshows.co.uk
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Sun 20th April Whipsnade Easter Craft & Produce Fair Whipsnade Village Hall Come and join us for a variety of stalls inside and out brimming with unusual crafts and local produce! Entrance is FREE to buyers and there is plenty of parking space. Following the success of out Christmas Craft Fair we are putting on a Craft and Produce Fair to continue to raise further funds towards the refurbishment of the hall. There will be space for 12 stalls inside and up to 20 outside. We are looking for a diverse mix of stalls and products. Stall holders £12 a space indoors and out. Form on request from admin email. Mon 21st April Cafe in The Tower All Saint's Church, Odell 2.30-5.30pm Pop in to sample a delicious range of cakes and cookies to go with your favourite cuppa. The Church Tower will also be open. The panoramic views from the top are well worth the climb. Step up to the challenge! All Saints Church is reviewed in Simon
Jenkins book – England’s Thousand Best Churches. Apart from enjoying the beauty of this Grade 1 listed building, wander around our award-winning Churchyard. Tower trips £2 adults, £1 children aged 10 to 16. Fri 25th April Table Top Sale 6pm – 8pm Wyboston Village Hall Free entrance www.wybostonvillagehall.com
Sat 26th April The Easy Introduction to Gardening with Alpines 9.00am – 4.15pm Stratton School, Biggleswade A study day with 3 lectures, a choice of workshops (photography, starting out or practical session) and lunch included. There will be nurseries from whom to buy plants, expert help and advice. £15 per person 01767627487 www.bedfordshirealpines.com
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A quiet night in... The Vanishing Point by Val McDermid
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t is every parent’s worst nightmare. Stephanie Harker is travelling through the security gates at O’Hare airport when she is taken into a perspex box having set off the metal detectors. Made to wait outside, five-year-old Jimmy is led away, by hand, by a uniformed officer. Stephanie’s panic and shouts lead security to believe she is a threat, and she is tasered brutally to the ground amidst her screams of protest while Jimmy disappears into the distance unnoticed by anyone but her. However, when Stephanie has a chance to tell her story to the FBI, it becomes clear that everything is not as it seems. Unanswered questions surround Jimmy’s background and why someone would want to abduct him. But it is Stephanie’s close friendship with reality TV star Scarlett Higgins that appears to lie at the bottom of a tale of death, deception and the extraordinary lengths to which a parent will go to protect their child. Parkland
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ramatic retelling of former US President John F. Kennedy's assassination. Captured on camera by amateur film-maker and photographer Abraham Zapruder (Paul Giamatti), Kennedy (Brett Stimely)'s assassination was an event which shocked the whole world. A firm believer in the need for a transparent government, Kennedy had made as many friends as he had enemies which led to speculation on the identity of his killer, widely thought to have been a lone gunman. Following the events of his shooting and showing the people who had come into contact with him afterwards, including the doctors and staff of Parkland Hospital in Dallas, the film also recounts the manhunt by Agent Forrest Sorrels (Billy Bob Thornton) of the Secret Service for the president's apparent killer, former US Marine and Soviet defector Lee Harvey Oswald (Jeremy Strong). Release Date: 31st March
The Other Woman
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ameron Diaz stars in a hilarious comedy about three women who team up to get revenge on their cheating man! New York lawyer Carly (Cameron Diaz) thinks she's finally found Mr. Right in the form of handsome and charming Mark (Nikolaj Coster-Waldau). When he announces that his housekeeper has summoned him home to Connecticut to deal with a burst pipe, Carly decides to follow and surprise him. Bad move. When she rings the bell, she's greeted by his wife, Kate (Leslie Mann). Unexpectedly, the two women bond during a drunken evening. Then they learn that Mark is threetiming them with buxom Amber (Kate Upton). Now the trio decide it's time to teach the serial philanderer an outrageous lesson that he'll never forget! Release Date: 23rd April
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APRIL 2014 ISSUE 34
FREE www.affinitymag.co.uk
April 2014
Chocolate Heaven
AFFINITY LUXURY LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
Easter treats you’ll love
TINDER
We had to!
All about... Rock City’s Mick Hutson
BEAUTY - FOOD - DRINK - HEALTH - FITNESS - STYLE - INTERIORS - MOTORS - WHAT’S ON