Affinity Luxury Lifestyle Magazine January 2018

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FREE AFFINITY LUXURY LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

wwww.affinitymag.co.uk January 2018

A Year for You From writing lists to glowing skin

JANUARY 2018 ISSUE 80

Beauty Edit This month's newest trends

An Oasis of Calm A Sri Lankan Dream

Midlife Madness

Reliving her youth

Eat Well

Recipes you'll love

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I’m Welcome... loving...

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3 4 There’s something magical about the start of a New Year, it’s a blank page for us to plan and work towards goals we have previously put off. Whether it’s that new job you keep craving, the healthier lifestyle you want to lead or getting a better work and family life balance, no matter how big or small we all set out with good intentions, but somehow along the way for many of us we loose our focus and we give up. But that needn’t be the case if you go into it with the right mindset, it’s all about positive thinking and the believing in yourself attitude, and believing you ‘Can Do’ NOT ‘Can’t Do’ page 10 tells us more about this and what we can do to train our mindset to believe in ourselves.

This year we’ve all been obsessed with the Danish tradition of Hygge and the whole concept of feeling relaxed, cosy and comfortable but this year’s new Hygge is Mys a Swedish tradition that’s all about slowing down, embracing comfort and eating delicious food, turn to page 20 to find out how to Mys your life.

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1. Kate Spade Crossbody Bag, £325, www.katespade.co.uk 2. Larkspur and Hawk Earrings, £1325, Liberty London 3. Pineapple Cushion, £26, Debenhams 4. Gold Jewel Boots, £915, Loriblu 5. 100 Day Happiness Planner, £20, Skinny Dip

With the Festive season well and truly out of the way we all think about updating our wardrobe (well I do!), page 23 starts our January fashion edit that includes dresses, bags, shoes and gilets for you to add to your wardrobe.

And of course with a New Year comes the ever burning question of “What will life hold for me this year” well we don’t know about the year but we certainly know about the month, turn to page 58 to read this month’s stars.

Until next month, which will of course be full of LOVE (Valentine’s Day), have a great January and don’t forget to check out our social media and website for all the latest news.

Jane x

Cover Bon Prix

Editor: Jane Fry jane@affinitymag.co.uk 01234 962106 - 07507 602401 Advertising: Jane Fry jane@affinitymag.co.uk 01234 962106 - 07507 602401 Graphic Design and Photography: David Zita dave@affinitymag.co.uk

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CONTENTS 12 19 26 29 33 36 40 44 48 52 54 57

Beauty Updates Hot Picks Right on Rust Roll with it Foodie News Delicious Dessert Midnight Luxe Happy New Interiors Sri Lankan Dreams A Personal Sanctuary Cool and Classic Here we go Again

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What does your kitchen mean to you?

Telephone: 01234 843000

Telephone: 01480 398017/8

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Start Right Learning to

In lots of areas of life the way we start has a bearing on how successful we will be. Think about a race, athletes have blocks to help them get off to a good start, other sports men and women may think carefully about what they eat before a match or event to maximise performance and they all give time to training. People ‘warm up’ before singing or performing, and even before an important meeting some people will ‘prep’ themselves, reading or researching, choosing clothes carefully and maybe having certain rituals that help them get into the right mental mood for success or peak performance.

The point is that many of us would do the same when we see an event as big or important. But in fact each day is a new fresh opportunity to do what you want in life and take steps towards having the life you want. Perhaps if we reframe how we see each day we can look back and see we have indeed made a fresh start or a change in direction.

‘With the new day comes new strength and new thoughts’ Eleanor Roosevelt

See Each Day as a Gift It is very easy in our busy lives to take life itself for granted.

But as none of us know what lies ahead each new day is a gift. If we are healthy and feel well even more so. If we have people we love and our basic needs met then we have a lot to be grateful for and excited about. If we haven’t then it is definitely time to see a new day as a chance to change things. Once we start appreciating what we have and seeing life as a gift then often it opens us up to the possibilites of what we might achieve. In essence it is easier then to be active NOT passive. To see ourselves as in charge of large chunks of our own destiny.

Take Time to Prepare Reading the biography of any one of a number of successful business people or entrepreuneurs one of the similarities is that they often have rituals to start their day. They will make time for some exercise, meditation or mindfulness and make sure they have a healthy breakfast.

The kind of things an athlete might do! When I talk to people about this in coaching or training they are often

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quick to say they haven’t time to do that - but actually we all have the same amount of time. It may mean getting up earlier - or going to bed earlier the night before but you will reap the benefits if you approach each day in the right way. After all we tend always to prepare for something important and what could be more imprtant than the first day of the rest of your life.

Be Honest About Where You Are There are a lot of people who drift through life not being very happy, somehow thinking one day things will change. Well they might but they are much more likely to change if you do something about it. Take a look at your life, what are you happy about and what makes life difficult for you. I acknowledge there may be responsibilities that are hard to change but with most people there are a lot of things that can be changed but you need an ‘active’ mentality.

There may be consequences from past decisions to be dealt with but simply being unhappy and waiting for it to change is letting your life, your one and only life drift by. See life as a journey, decide where you want to get to by the end of the week, month or year and take a step towards it.

Attitude AND Action Having the right mind-set or attitude is crucial to your wellbeing, success or happiness. The beliefs you hold, whether conscious or subconscious will have an impact on what you do. If you think your mind-set is holding you back then join us for a Mind Design day in February by following this link: www.attunedsuccess.co.uk/events/ Having the right mind-set will mean you are more open to possibilities and ideas but of course as the old saying goes ‘ideas don’t work unless we do’. Are there things you want to do?

Places you want to go? Things you want to learn? Experiences you want to have? Well start making steps to achieving those things by actually doing something about it.

Don’t Let Anything Stop You Think about a sprinter in the starting blocks imagine what they feel. Probably a range of emotions, excitement, apprehension, or maybe they wish they had trained harder. Sometimes they may feel afraid, of failure or of not doing their best, even of injury but they overcome those and start anyway, even if there is a false start they go back and try again. Unlike the sprinter we won’t get disqualified for a false start we can simply try again and keep doing that until we make progress. So whether it is fear, lack of motivation, negativity, or even laziness the choice is yours. You CAN have a fresh start, and it CAN start right now.

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In the Buff

Just like a LBD, Barry M’s in The Buff Eyeshadow Palette is essential for creating the daytime, night-time and anytime no make-up look. The 10 ultra-wearable cool to warm matte and shimmer hues suit all skin tones, whilst the easy to blend shades can be used to contour and define lids for that sultry smoky eye look.

Priced at £6.49 and available from Superdrug.

A Trio of Luxury

This month sees Jo Malone launch their luxurious trio of miniature hand creams. Encased in exclusive, Londoninspired designs and infused with three of their mostloved scents. Tantalising Lime Basil & Mandarin, sensual Peony & Blush Suede and luscious English Pear & Freesia.

Lightweight, easily absorbed and enriched with apricot kernel oil to nourish and protect, priced at £44 from www.jomalone.co.uk.

Golden Eye

Enriched with minerals, amino acids and proteins, Shangprees Gold Black Pearl Eye Mask delivers its concentrated treatment essence deep into the skin through the hydrogel material. The anti-ageing formula also contains black pearl and gold to accelerate the rejuvenation process and help fight fine lines, wrinkles and other signs of ageing, while balancing and brightening skin tone so as to especially target and diminish dark circles, available from Harrods with a RRP £60.

BEAUTY UPDATES

Natural Wellbeing As pampering as it is theraputic, an Olverum bath is like a warm comforting hug that helps you recover when you feel mentally and physically depleted.

Whether you use it to relieve stress, revive aching muscles and joints, rebalance dry skin, or simply to luxuriate in a blissful aromatic ‘me time’ moment, Olverum promotes a feeling of wellbeing and renewal.

Available from Harvey Nichols with a RRP from £19 - £53.

Velvet Kiss

NARS Cosmetics have launched its Man Ray for NARS limited edition Kiss Velvet Matte Lip Pencil Kit. Comprising of new shades Spell Bound (shimmering pink champagne) and Wild Ways (rich mahogany brown) as well as existing shades Endangered Red (bordeaux) and Toundra (rust). Priced at £48 and available exclusively at SpaceNK.

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5 New Year Resolutions for Glowing Skin in 2018

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s a New Year comes and we make commitments to ourselves to be a better, healthier and happier person, we need to remember to include our skin in this too.

Dr Ejikeme, Medical Director at Adonia Medical Clinic shares her top 5 resolutions to keep yur skin glowing in 2018.

1. HYDRATE - in order to get and maintain a nice healthy complexion, it is essential to re-hydrate constantly, with at least 2 litres of water per day and by eating water rich foods. Your lighter face creams should be swapped for richer night creams and oils to really keep your skin hydrated.

2. EXFOLIATE - by exfoliating regularly you encourage a more even fade compared to the natural exfoliation that happens over time, it also allows moisturisers and oils to reach deeper into the skin for better effects.

Exfoliate the skin 2 or more times a week for best results for removing dead skins and aiding circulation.

3. EXERCISE - the motivation to exercise is often less in the winter months – however it is essential. Movement enables lymphatic drainage and constant circulation which then enables skin to be energised and glowing.

Exercising 3 - 5 times a week will help maintain your overall health, as well as youthful, healthy skin.

4. AVOID TOXINS - cooler months at the beginning of 2018 are more likely to encourage skin problems, such as eczema or dermatitis, to flare up. It is important to avoid anything that worsens this. Avoiding allergens and irritants such as chemical-laden detergents will help prevent these problems. Using moisturisers designed for your specific skin type will also improve skin quality.

5. USE LUKE WARM WATER: Using luke-warm water instead of hot water to shower, bath or wash your face will benefit your skin by preventing any essential oils and moisture being stripped from the skin www.ADONIAMEDICALCLINIC.co.uk

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Why We Should be Writing a To-Be List and giving the Trusted To-Do List a Time-Out this 2018

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C

arina Lawson, Founder & CEO at Ponderlily.com shares with us how to get your own To-Be list started

To-do lists; the all-so-familiar way to get things done. We have used them for as far as we can remember, they’re written in meetings, on Post-It Notes, in notebooks, as well as there being an app for them; Checklists are common practice when we need to get ourselves to do stuff; be it calls we are supposed to make, errands we are to run or work we need to accomplish. They give us a feeling of euphoria of some sorts, when we get to check items off of our lists.

We feel accomplished, useful, and productive. However, we seem to crave that feeling over and over again so our lists get longer. When caught in this never-ending cycle, when do we pause to be open to positive opportunities and find fertile ground for growth?

Today, in a world where competition is on the rise, doing more and accomplishing more has become the order of the day. It’s like a professional sport really, with the ultimate prize being checking the most things off our to-do lists. When we do not do something on the list, we feel like we have failed greatly. We have fallen victim of the list, with every new dawn, we already have a list of what to do, everything planned out; each passing day, we are more overwhelmed by the checklists. We are enslaved by the to-do list so much that we forget to live our life, and pursue our goal of being what we want to be.

Bringing you the To-Be list As the mother of twins under four, a fulltime employee and with a company to run, you could call me ‘busy’. From school-runs to office work, I have the perfect definition of a full day. And remember I have a life of my own as a wife, friend, and daughter to live. So how do I cope with all that?

It all boils down to what I want to be. I want to be happy and healthy. For example, if my focus is on being healthy it does not necessarily mean that I have to go to the gym X number of times a week or for a certain length of time. To me, for example, it is more about the food choices I make, and the intentional movement I make throughout my day. It is about setting healthy boundaries (saying ‘no’) and finding time to manage how I respond to technology’s unremitting alerts. That’s what healthy means to me. Today. It may mean that I need to eat more iron-rich foods next month it may mean I need to do more yoga to feel more centered. To you, it may be

something totally different.

This is what the To-be list is all about. It is what you want to be, and what you need to do to be what you want; There’s something powerful and incredibly empowering about saying, I am, and I want to be. It creates your reality and keeps you aligned with your values.

This way you don’t get to feel overwhelmed in an effort to accomplish a task. Instead, you live a fulfilling life because you can find space for meaning in what you do. It helps you to make decisions that aren’t motivated by a desire to 'tick a box', but to find space for considered connection that makes you feel authentic and alive. I still write Notes to Self so I don’t forget to get the milk from the supermarket but I find helpful limiting the number of things I do in a day. Our lives are bigger than the things we do in a day, so there is no way that our day should be measured solely by milestones and tasks.

Getting Started Getting started with and practising your own to be list is very simple. All you need to do is first write down the things that you want to be in your life, for instance, “I want to be adventurous” or “I want to be a writer”.

Once the list is done and you have understood what it means to you, put it up somewhere where you can see it easily and from time to time. You can put it in your wardrobe door, refrigerator door or by your bathroom mirror.

Every time you want to do something, ask yourself, “Is this what I want to be? Is it helping me be what I want to be?” By so doing, you will find that your actions will align with how you want to be. In the long run, you will end up being closer to what was once an aspiration than you ever imagined. So, ask yourself, “What do I want to be?”

About the Author Carina Lawson is the founder & CEO of Ponderlily Ltd, a UK-based brand that creates beautiful, environmentallyconscious gifts for mindful living.

As well as an Associate Director for Academic Operations in one of the world’s leading American academic and research institutions based in the Arabian Gulf, where she lives with her husband twin daughters.

For more information about Ponderlily please visit www.ponderlily.com

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Midlife Madness Glasto here I come

I shared a lovely night out with the fella the other week at a concert in London and before you jump to conclusions it wasn’t a classical concert it was a band. A band from our youth. The name seems immaterial as we all have them don’t we, the ones whose songs can instantly transport us back in time to particular events or even ‘feelings’. In fact when I can pin a song on an event then I have a half way chance of guessing the year, I was though concerned I was 10 years out on one recently, strange time warp occurrence!

One of the surprising things, probably not, was that when I looked around the audience they were all strikingly similar to us. Mostly couples over a certain age, even fairly similar dress styles. Can I confess to being a bit shocked that the band looked older too? I know that the laws of nature and ageing make it likely but it always surprises me. I remember vividly going to see David Essex in a play a few years ago and being stunned that he was grey haired and had clearly aged. I generally stopped going to see teenage heartthrobs after that it was just too painful.

Anyway back to the concert the band played a range of stuff but the audience participation was at its peak with the old stuff and weirdly we could pretty much all remember all of the words. Why is that? Car keys, glasses, people’s names and a thousand other things may be elusive but words to songs form 30 years ago, no problem.

The wonders of the brain! No useful function to remembering words for bygone songs, apart from singing along at concerts and answering the odd pub quiz question, whereas remembering where I put my car keys and glasses has really useful daily application!

So the next day I read up about this phenomena of older folks going to concerts of bands they loved ‘back in the day’ and while the obvious reason is we like the music, why they keep performing is another matter, there may

be other forces at work, and much of mid-life is akin to being a teenager! A tendency to obsess about our looks, want freedom and independence, enjoy being part of or ‘pack’, behave recklessly, drink too much, or feel constrained by everyday life. Let me just think for a moment does this describe many of my friends?

There are obvious differences between teenagers and midlife crisis-ers but it seems there are some striking similarities. Before you dismiss this out of hand how many mid-lifers do you know who want to change jobs, go travelling, live more simply, get a sudden interest in the environment or some other cause? Well if that is the case, don’t be too hard on them. The logic is that it’s not the mid-lifer’s fault that they feel compelled to buy a sports car, jack in the job, climb Kilimanjaro, and get a face lift or whatever. They may choose to do it but they, like teenagers, are largely driven by hormones!

Further research shows there are even defined stages to a midlife crisis! Things like denial, do you know someone who lies about their age or dresses as if they were much younger. Then anger, leading to selfishness, I prefer to think of myself as assertive after decades of putting what I want on the back burner. The stages then move through replay - trying to blame outside sources for our misery my wrinkles were because I spent too much time in the sun, for example before depression sets in! Brilliant but if you hit that stage then don’t fret as the next one is acceptance!

There’s even more good news, while allegedly women have more of the physical symptoms it is men whose lives may be completely derailed by it! So take heart and in terms of understanding this phenomena that is mid-life I’d better book to go to Glastonbury next year- just for research of course!

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Red Bag, £17.99, New Look

Ponderlily Planner, £25, www.ponderlily.com

AFFINITY HOT PICKS

Marc Jacobs Daisy EDT Anniversary Edition, £78, John Lewis

Star by Julien Macdonald, £75, Debenhams

Lancôme Macaron Blush & Blender, £35, John Lewis

Bee Earrings, £10, Debenhams

This month’s must have gifts and accessories

Speech Bubble Chalk Board, £3 , Primark

Multi Colour Sandal, £85, Dunejpg

Cath Kidston Sausage Dog T-shirt, £25, Cath Kidston

Bruichladdich Classsic Laddie Whisky, £42, The Whisky Exchange

Ted Baker Bretel Crystal Baguette Necklace, £125, www.jewellery4.co.uk

Cath Kidston Paper Ditsy Headphones, £38, Cath Kidston

Lobster Bottle Opener, £18, Paperchase

iZ Beauty of London Hand-Care Set, £30, www.izbeauty.co.uk

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It’s all About Mys this Winter

Forget Hygge

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It’s that time of the year again, the thick jumpers and fluffy socks are out and as the rain hammers on windows and the roads turn icy and all you want to do is snuggle up on the sofa. Mys is the new trend set to take this winter by storm, taking over from last year’s obsession with Hygge.

What’s the difference?

Both concepts are about feeling relaxed, cosy and comfortable but Mys is a Swedish tradition, whereas Hygge is a Danish tradition. With temperatures usually being much colder in Sweden and with parts of the northern side having darkness for 24 hours there’s even more reason for Swedes to feel snug and cosy!

Mys promotes slowing down, relaxing and eating delicious food. It embraces taking comfort and having some time away from the stressful outside world. Mys also endorses the term ‘fredagsmys’ which means ‘cosy Fridays’, so those that follow this mind-set, make sure they have a relaxing and indulgent evening after a hard working week.

How can we Brits embrace the Swedish way of life and generally brighten our spirits this winter?

Two is better than one A common custom for many Swedes is having two separate duvets on a double bed, as opposed to playing tug of war in the middle of the night trying to get your share back. If this is a common issue in your household, why not give the two separate duvets a go?

To enhance your sleep further and allude to the Mys tradition of taking time out for some ‘you’ time, try Samol Herbal Hair & Scalp Oil (from £5.40, www.samolherbal.com). This includes the ingredient Nardostachys Jatamansi, which is known for its powers to help reduce stress; anxiety and aid sleep, deterring you from spending the night tossing and turning.

Log off Mys is all about making time for family and friends but as soon as you wake up does your priority suddenly focus around checking your Instagram feed and emails?

It’s easy to get addicted to the buzz of social media and the 24/7 news cycle, but it’s crucial we make time to relax and socialise too. Try to be strict with yourself on how many hours you’re ‘plugged in’ to social media, for example rather than sitting on Instagram or Facebook on your lunch break why not head out for a stroll or meet a friend for coffee?

Or in the evening if you usually spend an hour or so scrolling through your Facebook feed why not snuggle down with a book, or boost your endorphins whilst socialising at a fitness class? If you need some motivation for logging out of social media and focusing on what is happening in real time try the app Forest.

Forest gives users virtual coins that are given for taking a break from your phone, and the coins are then used to plant real trees around the world.

Seasonal Eating The Swedish approach to food is all about seasonal, local and organic produce. Making meals with seasonal

produce cannot only benefit your health but also for the environment and your bank balance!

“Eating foods when in season means that you’ll be eating the way nature intended it. Summer fruits and vegetables tend to contain higher amounts of water, which dilutes their nutrient content. Compare this to winter fruits and veggies and you’ll find they’re richer in nutrients such as vitamin C and contain more valuable fibre,” explains Nutritionist, Cassandra Barns.

Treat yourself to comfort food Part of ‘fredagsmys’ is to indulge in junk food, but the average sugary or carby treat can send your mood plummeting after the initial ‘hit’ has passed. But dark chocolate – especially made with raw cacao – can actually have longer-lasting benefits for your mood.

“If you love the taste of chocolate, just indulging in your favourite treat can release endorphins in the brain. And with dark chocolate, you’re getting the endorphin hit without the sugar overload,” explains Nutritionist, Cassandra Barns.

So if you’re feeling low, treat yourself to a cacao bar such as OMBAR 72% Raw Cacao (www.ombar.co.uk, £1.99).

Dress for the weather Swedes have a saying that suggests that there is no bad weather, just bad clothing, so make it a priority to wrap up when the colder weather hits. So, when you next use the excuse that it’s too cold to go outside and exercise try to motivate yourself by simply dressing for the weather.

“During the winter months our extremities, such as our feet tend to suffer the most from the cold. It's really important to keep your feet well insulated during this time. Unfortunately, woolly socks may keep our feet warm, but they tend to make our feet sweat more,” explains Carnation Footcare Podiatrist, Michael Ratcliffe.

“For toasty, fresh feet I would recommend Carnation Footcare's Silversocks (www.firstaidfast.co.uk, £12).

Silversocks are made with pure silver threads. These unique fibres act as a natural heat thermostat, regulating foot temperature and helping to keep toes toasty when the temperature drops. The silver will not wash out or lose its thermal and antibacterial properties over time, so will keep your feet warm from winter to winter,” adds Michael.

Put things into perspective Achieving a good work/life balance is a significant part of the Swedish culture and they even previously trialed a six-hour working day. To avoid feeling overwhelmed try to prioritise what actually needs to be done and then what can wait until tomorrow, everyone needs some time out!

“There is nothing in your life right now more important than your health. Learn to say no if you feel that you have taken on too much. Being assertive is invigorating and empowering. It also helps to make lists of what is or is not a priority and to tackle the priority tasks first.

This will help give you a sense of control over your life,” suggests Dr Marilyn Glenville, the UK’s leading Nutritionist (www.marilynglenville.com) and author of Natural Alternatives to Sugar.

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FASHION

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Marks and Spencer

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Out in Oxblood The deep red hues in oxblood embodies hints of brown, which makes it more versatile than traditional red. Whether it's a handbag, boots, pair of earrings, coat or dress this colour is a wardrobe staple.

Velvet Hoodie, £17.99, New Look Burgundy Spot Dress, £69, Sosandar

Leather Biker Jacket, £249, Sosandar

Tassel Bag, £15.99, New Look

Marks & Spencer

Polka Dot Ruffle Dress, £24.99, New Look

Wool Skirt, £49, La Redoute

Leather Dress, £149, La redoute

Velvet Playsuit, £45, Glamorous

Drop Earrings, New Look

Ankle Boots, £19.99, TK Maxx

Knitted Bobble Hat, £8, Dorothy Perkins

Burgundy Checked Shirt, £28, Dorothy Perkins

Zip Front Dress, £69, Sosandarpg

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Right on Rust Add a blend of brown and orange together and you get rust, still well on trend, you can wear it on it’s own or teamed with other colours, what will you choose?

Necklace, £22, M&Co

Suede Mac, £44.99, New Look

bon-prix

Suede Jacket, £99, GUESS

Bardot Layer Top, £32, AX Paris

Soft Cord Blazer, £39.99, Bon Prix

Trousers, £13, Primark

Native Youth Jumper, £75, Littlewoods.com

Top, £19.99, Bon Prix

Baker Boy Hat, £12.99 , River Island

Bucket Bag, £99, GUESS

Flared Sleeve Blouse, £25, La Redoute

Jasper Conran, £65, Debenhams

Te

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Gorgeous in a Gilet

Smart, casual, fur or padded, we all have room in our wardrobe for a gilet or two!

Faux Fur Gilet, £165, GUESS

Faux Fur Gilet, £45, Izabel London

Marble Faux Fur Gilet, £45, Dorothy Perkins

High Grove Print Padded Gilet, £59.95, Joules

Ted Baker Fiorela Gilet, £199, House of Fraser

Mint Velvet Faux Fur Gilet, £79, House of Fraser

littlewoods

Onca Fleece Gilet, £49.99, Swing Out Sister

Reversible Gilet, £75, White Stuff

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Leather Luxe A leather skirt (or faux leather) always looks so stylish and sophisticated, available in many colours and lengths, you’ll be spoilt for choice

A-Line Leather Skirt, £22, Dorothy Perkins

Green Faux Leather Skirt, £24 , Dorothy Perkins

Faux Leather Black Skirt, £19.99, TK Maxx

Debenhams

Faux Leather Embroidered Skirt, £28, Dorothy Perkins

Red Faux Leather Skirt, £20, Pretty Little Thing

Vera Moda Faux Leather Skirt, £35, Littlewoods.com

Leather Pencil Skirt, £139, Sosandar

Nappa Leather Skirt, £179, House of Fraser

Ralph Lauren Straight Leather Skirt, £295, House of Fraser

Leather Skirt, £95.99, Navabijpg

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Roll With It

Roll neck jumpers or tops never go out of fashion, team them with a pair of jeans for a casual look, or with a skirt and heels ready to go out.

Cable Knit Roll Neck, £40, Oasis

Blue Roll Neck Jumper, 333, Wallis

Granite Roll Neck Top, £17.50, Marks & Spencer New Look

Blue Roll Neck, £39, Sosandar Roll Neck Top, £16, Cotton Edits Red Roll Neck Jumper, £19.99, TU

Stripe Roll nexk Top, £90, Jigsaw Roll Neck Jumper, £75, GUESS

YAS Cream Rollneck, £64, Littlewoods.com

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Food & Drink

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Cheese for Toasting Waitrose is the first UK supermarket to launch a Prosecco cheese. Arriving in shops last month, this indulgent cheese is perfect for adding a sparkly twist to any cheeseboard.

The Ubriaco Prosecco DOC, affectionately referred to as 'drunken cheese', is a traditional Italian cows' milk cheese which is bathed in Treviso Prosecco DOC for 40 to 50 days during its ageing process, which takes 6 - 8 months in total.

The cheese has a soft, supple texture. Its flavour is reminiscent of flowers, pears and golden apples, with a hint of saltiness in the background. Available from Waitrose cheese counters and is priced at (£25/kg).

Blackwoods New Vintage

Blackwoods have launched a new 2017 vintage across its spirit range, featuring new formulations for its premium gins and vodka, and developed in partnership with leading bartenders.

To mark the new vintage there is a premium look to the packaging, recalling the vintage Roaring 1920s era of cocktails as well as spotlighting the brand’s premium character.

The faceted detailing evokes premium glassware, while a copper cap with crafted detail reflects Blackwoods’ small batch production in a traditional copper pot still.

The new formula will include the latest harvest of hand-picked botanicals from the island, with updated recipes developed in partnership with bartenders to create the ideal balance of flavour and mixability. Bottles are priced from £22.

FOODIE NEWS

Restore, Energise and Boost Food and Wellbeing in a Box

Lifebox is the British food and wellbeing brand offering monthly subscriptions and one-off boxes which have become very popular gift choices. Their boxes are packed full of the latest healthy food and drink options, ingredients and supplements to help kick start or enhance a healthy lifestyle.

Each Lifebox is supercharged and packed to the brim with lovingly selected health foods, meaning you can discover the latest and greatest wholesome healthy goodies from home. It is perfect for on-the-go lifestyles. Take your treats with you travelling, to work, or keep ingredients at home to incorporate into your homemade cooking and baking.

Each Lifebox is beautifully packaged and delivered to your home or office – they really are the perfect indulgent treat for yourself, or a unique gift for the health-conscious foodie. Lifebox subscriptions and one-off boxes are available at www.lifeboxfood.com with prices starting from £14.95.

Whether you are looking for a healthy snack, a post-workout refresher, or a wholesome drink for on-the-go, choose Shaken Udder's new range of delicious, calcium-packed milkshakes with immune-boosting vitamin B12.

A fantastic thirst-quencher, made from real ingredients and no nasties, it offers a natural source of protein and calcium, whilst also containing vitamin B12 to encourage a healthy immune system.

Available in Chocolush, Vanillalicious, Top Banana, Strawberries & Clotted Cream and Salted Caramel, Shaken Udder is available in 330ml bottles (RRP £1.49) and 750ml Uber Udder bottles from all major supermarkets..

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Healthy Mexican Casserole with Roasted Corn and Peppers “A Mexican casserole that’s both healthy AND delicious.

Perfect to warm you up on a cold winter’s evening.”

Ingredients 2 red bell peppers 2 green bell peppers 1 jalapeno or 2 chipotle peppers (optional – just for more kick) 1/2 red onion 2 cups frozen corn 2 tsp chili powder 2 tsp cumin Salt to taste 2 cups Mexican cheese (mine was a Sargento blend) 18-20 corn tortillas 1 can refried beans 2 cups red enchilada sauce Cilantro, guacamole, or sour cream for topping

Method Pan-roast the vegetables. Dice the peppers and mince the onions.

Heat a large nonstick skillet with a little bit of oil over a high heat.

Add the onion and peppers, sprinkle with chili and cumin, and stir, rest, stir, rest until you get a nice browning on the outside of the peppers. Remove and set aside. Repeat the roasting process with the corn, sprinkling with chili and cumin, removing from the heat when browned and roasted on the outside. Sprinkle the roasted vegetables with a little bit of salt and toss to coat.

Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan and preheat the oven to 400 degrees.

Cut the tortillas into thin strips. Put the refried beans in a bowl and mix with a little bit of water to make them easier to spread.

Spread a little bit of sauce on the bottom of the pan. Layer in order: half of the tortilla strips, ALL the beans, half of the vegetables, half of the sauce, half of the cheese. Cover with the other half of the tortilla strips, vegetables, sauce, and cheese. Cover with foil and bake for 1520 minutes, until the sauce is bubbling and the cheese is melted.

Serve with guacamole, fresh cilantro and/or sour cream.

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Spiced Aubergine and Tamarind Rice Ingredients

For the rice: 350g basmati rice 6 tbsp vegetable oil 1 tsp mustard seeds 10–12 fresh curry leaves 1 large onion, sliced 2 fat garlic cloves, peeled and chopped 1 large tomato, choppedsalt, to taste ½ tsp turmeric ½–1 tsp chilli powder 36 long Japanese aubergines, stalks cut off, cut into 2–3 pieces (depending on length) 2 tsp tamarind paste, dissolved in 4 tbsp of boiling water 2 handfuls of chopped coriander leaves 2 handfuls of fresh grated coconut (optional) For the spice blend: 2 tbsp Bengal gram (chana dal), well washed 1 tbsp skinned and split black gram (urad dal), well washed 6 green cardamom pods 6 cloves 7cm cinnamon stick 3 tsp coriander seeds 2/3 tsp fenugreek seeds 1½ tsp cumin seeds 12 black peppercorns

Method

“A delicious rice dish that can be eaten on it’s own or as a side”

Wash the rice well in several changes of water and leave to soak in enough water to cover well. Heat the oil in a large saucepan. Add the mustard seeds and, once the popping dies down, add the curry leaves and the onion; cook until the onion starts to colour on the edges. Add the garlic and cook over a gentle flame for 40 seconds or until the garlic starts to colour. Add the tomato, salt, turmeric and chilli powder with a splash of water and cook over a medium-high flame, stirring often, for four to five minutes.

Drain the rice, then add it and the aubergines to the pan and give them a good stir in the spices. Add 375ml of water, bring to the boil, then cover and cook over a really low flame until the rice has cooked through, around eight to 10 minutes. As the rice cooks, roast your spices. Heat a frying pan, add the Bengal gram and cook, stirring often, until the lentils turn a lovely golden brown; pour into a spice grinder or mortar. Add the smaller lentils to the pan and repeat until these have gently browned; add to the other lentils. Add the remaining spices to he pan and roast, shaking, until the cumin and coriander have darkened and become aromatic. Add to the lentils and grind to a fine powder.

Once the rice has cooked, uncover and add the spice powder and tamarind.

Stir well with a fork, adjusting the seasoning as you do. Then cover and leave to steam for a few minutes. Stir in the coriander and sprinkle over the coconut, if using.

Anjum’s Indian Vegetarian Feast by Anjum Anand

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Rum and pineapple monkey bread with spiced candied macadamias Ingredients

125ml (1/2 cups) milk, warmed 1 tsp (1 sachet) instant dried yeast 140g (2/3 cup) caster sugar 2 eggs 375g (2 1/2 cups) bread pizza flour Pinch of salt 120g unsalted butter, chopped, at room temperature 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon Cream, to serve Toasted flaked coconut, to serve

Rum Pineapple 400g (2 cups, firmly packed) brown sugar 250ml (1 cup) Australian dark rum 2 x 450g cans Australian pineapple pieces in syrup, drained, syrup reserved Candied Macadamias 145g (1 cup) macadamia nuts, coarsely chopped 2 tbsp brown sugar 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon

Method

Whisk the milk, yeast and 1 tbsp sugar in a jug. Set aside for 10 minutes or until frothy. Whisk in the eggs. Process the flour, salt and 55g (1 ⁄4 cup) of the remaining sugar in a food processor until combined. Add yeast mixture. Process until the dough just comes together. With the motor running, add the butter, 1 piece at a time, until combined and a very soft, sticky dough forms.

Turn onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 3-4 minutes or until smooth. Place in a greased large bowl. Cover. Set aside in a warm, draught-free place to prove for 1 hour or until dough doubles in size. Punch the dough down. Roughly roll 10g portions into balls (about 72 balls).

Use a melon baller to scoop out the dough if you like.

Meanwhile, for the rum pineapple, place sugar, rum and reserved syrup in a large frying pan.

Stir over low heat until sugar dissolves. Bring to a rapid simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid starts to thicken slightly. Add pineapple pieces and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until syrup thickens. Transfer pineapple to a bowl and reserve the syrup.

Grease six 10cm bundt cake tins with melted butter. Combine cinnamon and remaining caster sugar in a plastic bag. Add a few balls of dough, seal the bag and toss to coat. Transfer to a plate.

Repeat with the remaining dough and cinnamon mixture. Spoon 30g pineapple into each prepared pan. Drizzle each with 2 tsp rum syrup. Divide half the dough balls among pans. Top with remaining pineapple. Drizzle each with 1 tbs syrup. Top with remaining balls. Set aside in a warm, draught-free place for 1 ⁄2-1 hour or until doubled in size.

For the macadamias, toast the nuts in a frying pan over a medium heat for 3-4 minutes, until lightly golden. Sprinkle with sugar and cinnamon. Cook, stirring, until sugar starts to dissolve.

Drizzle with 1 tbs water and toss until well coated. Spread over a lined baking tray. Cool.

Preheat oven to 180°C/160°C fan/ Gas. Place pans on a baking tray. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden. Cool in the pans for 5 minutes. Turn onto serving plates and top with cream, candied macadamias and coconut. Drizzle with the remaining syrup. www.taste.com.au

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Spanish/Paella Night 19th January

Tapas starter followed by homemade paella Free drink included £20per person

Pudding Night 26th January

Main course and all you can eat desserts only £16 per person

Pudding Night

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Premium Australian wine brand, Nepenthe, has landed in the UK, bringing a selection of wines from its two collections – Altitude and Pinnacle

Nepenthe Pinnacle Gate Block Shiraz This wine hails from a highaltitude site in The Hills that benefits from ample sunlight, encouraging concentrated flavours of fresh red berries and classic pepper notes. With firm tannins and a long, lingering finish, this wine can be served with fuller-flavoured meats such as veal and beef. £19.99, Amazon

2nd/9th/16th/23rd/30th- Two for Tuesday Buy one get one free on all main courses No limits on the menu, no voucher to print, served 12-9pm

Afternoon Tea

Afternoon tea served everyday 2-5pm £9.95 for sweet £11.95 for full afternoon tea £18.95 for champagne afternoon tea

01234 781 678

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

Nepenthe Altitude Shiraz With elegant flavours of berry and sweet spice, making it the ideal partner for lighter red meat dishes £12.99, Amazon

Nepenthe Altitude Pinot Noir A wine that exhibits fresh summer fruit flavours with subtle oak and spice notes.

With a long, savoury finish, it partners perfectly with duck. £12.99, Amazon

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INTERIORS

John Lewis

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Midnight Luxe Luxury doesn't have to cost a fortune, add some midnight blue and gold accessories into your dĂŠcor for an instant luxe effect

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Apple Paperweight, £30, Laura Ashley Picture Frame, £6.99, TK Maxx Table Lamp, £29, JD Williams Plate, £4.99, Homesense Lamp, £39.99, Homesense Chair, £885, Houseology Geometric Candle Holder, £29, JD Williams Velvet Cushion, £8, Primark Glass Candle, £9.99, Homesense Aztec Rug, £39, JD Williams Biba Cushion, £30, House of Fraser Chair, £199.99, Homesense Linea Vase, £38, House of Fraser Biba Lamp, £195, House of Fraser

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New Year discounts on all bedroom furniture

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TRAVEL

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An Oasis of Exclusivity at

Jetwing Lighthouse Club

In the land of eternal sun, amidst an endless stretch of palm fringed beach and dressed in colonial splendour, stands Jetwing Lighthouse Club. An exclusive retreat in the historic city of Galle, Sri Lanka a luxurious hideaway swathed in elegance and old world charm.

A stay at this lavish resort promises its guests a pampered and elite service that surpasses the hospitality at any other hotel.

Home to 20 deluxe rooms and two themed suites, guests are able to relax in the spacious rooms furnished with rich timber and eco-friendly fabric, and all placed in view of the captivating Indian Ocean. The suites also feature a private Jacuzzi, a plunge pool, and a separate seating area. Providing their elite guests

their own personal butler available 24/7, a range of dining options, indulgent spa retreats for couples, extended service hours and a host of other unique facilities that make up their exceptional services.

Guests receive exclusive access to the signature restaurant Nihal's, dedicated to and overlooked by internationally renowned Executive Chef Nihal Senanayake. Here, ''Bubbly Breakfast'' is a specialty dining offering that is available daily, inclusive of sparkling wine and deluxe dishes in addition to a delectable seven course set menu offered for dinner every night. Additionally, guests can enjoy complimentary high tea from 3.30-4.30pm, and a complimentary Club Hour from 6.00-7.00pm serving premium spirits with canapĂŠs.

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Located adjoining Jetwing Lighthouse, the Jetwing Lighthouse Club guests are able to access and enjoy all the facilities of the neighbouring hotel, while maintaining its own stand as a property echoing luxury and exclusivity. For a wider range of dining options, Jetwing Lighthouse homes the Cinnamon Room, Cardamom CafĂŠ, Anchor Bar, Coats of Arms Bar and Lorenzo's Pizza Corner for a unique culinary journey.

The private beach is the ideal place to sip on a cocktail while embracing the island breeze. Take a dip in the soothing waters and cover a few laps in the pool while listening to the gushing waves of the Indian Ocean. To keep you fit the fully fledged gym and tennis court with fitness instructors are at your disposal during your stay. To experience the ultimate experience in tranquillity and rejuvenation, consult the spa doctor for personalised treatments in the surroundings of the steam room, plunge pool and massage rooms.

For those seeking adventure, Galle is home to the iconic Fort, which earned the status of UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The The metropolis is always busy and vibrant; with stalls and boutiques alongside the roads. If you’re a beach lover you cannot miss out on the splendid marble waters of the Galle Fort, Jungle Beach and Unawatuna beaches not too far away from the Club where you can engage in scuba diving and snorkelling.

Then there are also the delightful islands for those who are adventurous namely the Madol Duwa, Kurundu Duwa (Cinnamon Island), Spice Island, and Temple Islands. For the nature lovers you can travel to the Hiyare Rainforest, trek the famous Sinharaja Forest Reserve, and experience the marvels of Udawalawa National Park and much more all of which can be arranged and accompanied by the expert resident naturalist.

BOOK IT To book your exclusive stay and find out about special rates call 0114 709 400 or visit www.jetwinghotels.com

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Five Star Indulgence

Boringdon Hall at

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Luxury five star hotel, Boringdon Hall have launched a New Year getaway for those in need of a restful break. Experience idyllic surroundings, fine dining and a sumptuous stay.

Recently crowned Condé Nast Johansen’s best destination spa in Europe. Boringdon Hall Hotel is a five star, three AA rosette luxury hotel set within eight acres, on the edge of Dartmoor, known as ‘The Enchanted Place on the Hill’.

The Divine Dine & Stay includes a one night stay at the historic manor house hotel, breakfast served in the Gallery, a three AA rosette fine dining restaurant sitting above the grand Great Hall, and a three course dinner in the newly launched Mayflower Brasserie, a stylish and intimate dining space.

Arrive to stunning views of idyllic Dartmoor, check in and take a refreshing stroll, put your feet up by the log fire in the Great Hall, or take yourself to Gaia Spa for pure relaxation.

In the evening, dine on a seasonally crafted menu, with fresh and flavoursome dishes such as Mayflower specialities; braised beef brisket, red wine and wild mushroom sauce with buttered mash or fillet of bream, salt lemon tapenade and BBQ tender-stem. Or try something from the grill, tempting classics such as Maple glazed bacon chops, poached eggs and chunky chips or chargrilled honey jerk chicken strips salad, BBQ gem hearts and ranch dressing.

Finally, Indulge in dessert with a hot waffle sundae for two with cinnamon waffles, salted caramel ice cream and caramelized apples, or try the decadent dark chocolate torte, coffee ripple ice cream and hazelnut.

After dinner, the Great Hall awaits, relax in majestic surroundings with a drink from the bar, with an extensive wine list and range or local gins, or sample a signature cocktail. For the adventurous, seek out ‘tales of the unexpected’ in Boringdon’s Secret Bar… where an exquisite cocktail menu in a cosy, luxurious setting awaits.

The break also includes 25% off any spa treatments booked at Gaia Spa, a luxurious and state of the art facilities, time at Gaia will leave you feeling refreshed, rebalanced and nurtured.

This country escape is the ideal way to spend some me time after the rush and excitement of Christmas and New Year, just take some time out and make your wellness the priority.

The Divine Dine & Stay includes: *One-night stay in a stable room *3 course dinner in the Mayflower Brasserie *Full Devonshire breakfast in the Gallery Restaurant *25% off any spa treatments booked Available from 1st January to 28th February To book, call Boringdon Hall on 01752 344455 www.boringdonhall.co.uk

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Find Your Personal Sanctuary at

Abaton Island Resort & Spa

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Travelers in search of a relaxing summer sanctuary need look no further than Abaton Island Resort & Spa in Crete, Greece.

Opening this April 2018, this brand new five-star resort invites you to bask in the comfort of modern seafront accommodation, spread over 360 metres of coastline.

A 20-minute drive from Heraklion International Airport, the property offers 152 luxury guest rooms and suites with endless sea views and 74 open-air pools. Choose from 14 room types bathed in clean white lines and natural lighting while a personal concierge caters to all your needs.

To satisfy your desires, Abaton’s therapeutic spa, powered by Elemis premium skincare products, provides a pampering experience. Rejuvenate with a range of treatments designed in synergy with the body and mind; then relax and recharge in the heated saltwater pool and sauna.

For fine dining, Abaton’s five restaurants and two bars will indulge your senses. Savour local Cretan dishes from land and sea to Asian gastronomy and fresh sushi to gourmet steaks, vintage wines and tropical cocktails. Or treat your taste buds to 24/7 in-room dining.

Complete your stay at the resort’s full gym and tennis courts as well as a boutique shop, jeweler and tailor.

Guests looking to travel in style can make good use of a helicopter/ yacht service, while loving couples can exchange vows on a private beach or plan a dream reception with bespoke wedding and honeymoon packages.

With it’s stylish accommodation complete with luxury services, variety of restaurants that will indulge your senses and a world class spa Abaton Island Resort & Spa is the place to escape this summer for your very own 5-star personal sanctuary.

BOOK IT

Prices start from £182.93 per night in May 2018 in a Deluxe Sea View Room including breakfast.

Prices start from £445.77 per night in May 2018 in a Luxury Seafront Guestroom with Private Pool including breakfast. www.abaton.gr

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Christian Lewis Performance & Classic Cars Sipping champagne and surrounded by Fast and Classic Cars, I expect you think we were on a film set for the new James Bond movie, but no you’re mistaken (although I did half expect to see Daniel Craig), we were at the Champagne Reception Launch of Christian Lewis Performance and Classic Cars right her in the middle of Bedford.

Having recently relocated from Northamptonshire to Bedford, their new facility will hold the biggest collection of Aston Martin Vanquishes in the world, all for sale under one roof. The company has made a ÂŁ1.5 million investment moving to their new Ampthill Road site, including a tailor-

made refurbishment of the building and a state-of-the-art security system.

Christian set up in business in 2013 after a successful career working at Aston Martin, where he earned the distinction of being the youngest ever mechanic to be inducted into the famous Aston Martin Lagonda (AML) Guild of Technicians. Going on to become Workshop Manager for one the most revered AML specialists in the country, Christian then took the leap to open his own business and create a specialist team to work on Aston Martin, Ferrari, Maserati, Lamborghini and Porsche.

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“This new premises will enable me to develop the business even further, expanding my team of elite mechanics and broaden our services. Our location provides great transport links, which is vital as our customers are nation-wide and we procure vehicles from across the world.

“I am very proud to be supported and trusted by so many clients and it’s an honour to work on such beautiful vehicles,” said Christian.

Over the years Christian has brushed shoulders with stars such Chris Evans and Orlando Bloom and many other

celebrities who share his passion for unique, beautiful cars.

The company specialise in servicing, restoration, and procurement of classic and performance cars. They also provide a storage service for customers, who want their pride and joy to be safe and pampered during the winter months.

Seeking to expand his team, Christian is currently recruiting for specialist mechanics and new members of his restoration team, contact him direct via their website www.christianlewis.com for more information.

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Long before she was Carole King, the chart-topping music legend, she was an ordinary girl with an extraordinary talent.

Beautiful - The Carole King Musical tells the inspiring true story of King’s remarkable rise to stardom, how she fought her way into the record industry as a teenager and sold her first hit, ‘Will You Love Me Tomorrow’, when she was just seventeen. By the time she was twenty she was writing number ones for the biggest acts in rock ‘n’ roll, including the Drifters, The Shirelles, Aretha Franklin and the Monkees.

The musical tells you about her relationship with fellow writers and best friends Cynthia Weil and Barry Mann, and how she became one of the most successful solo acts in popular music history.

Along the way, she wrote the soundtrack to a generation, with countless classics such as (You Make Me Feel) Like a Natural Woman, Take Good Care of my Baby, You’ve Got a Friend, So Far Away, It Might As Well Rain Until September, Up on the Roof, Locomotion, You’ve Lost That Loving Feeling, On Broadway and We Gotta Get Out Of This Place.

Beautiful – The Carol King Musical runs from Tuesday 20th – Saturday 24th February 2018. Tickets are available from www.atgtickets.com/miltonkeynes.

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Here We Go Again

Mamma Mia Takes to The Stage The sensational feel-good musical Mamma Mia! comes to Northampton’s Royal & Derngate for a two week run from Tuesday 23rd January to Saturday 3rd February 2018 as part of its first ever UK tour.

Set in a Greek island paradise, a story of love, friendship and identity is cleverly told through the timeless songs of ABBA. Sophie’s quest to discover the father she has never known brings her mother face to face with three men from her distant romantic past on the eve of a wedding they will never forget.

To date, Mamma Mia! has been seen by more than 60 million people in 50 productions in 16 different languages. Mamma Mia! The Movie, starring Meryl Streep and Pierce Brosnan, is the highest worldwide grossing live-action musical film of all time. From West End to global phenomenon, the London production of Mamma Mia! has now been seen by more than 10% of the entire UK population. It is one of only five musicals to have run for more than 10 years both on Broadway and in the West End. Creator and Producer Judy Craymer said: "We can’t wait to bring the much loved musical Mamma Mia! to Northampton for the first time as part of the UK Tour. It’s a sunny, feel-good, fun night out for all the family, and we can’t wait to share the irresistible songs of ABBA with Northampton!”

Mamma Mia! takes to the Derngate stage from Tuesday 23rd January to Saturday 3rd February at 7.30pm, with matinees at 2.30pm on Thursdays and Saturdays and on Wednesday 31st January. Tickets are priced from £15 to £59.50 and can be booked by calling Box Office on 01604 624811 or online at www.royalandderngate.co.uk.

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

Capricorn (22 December – 19 January) This is an excellent time for starting new projects and taking action on plans. You feel that you can do whatever you want, and focus on your own wants and needs. You don’t need to search hard for drive and stamina. You enjoy people that are original and ideas that are unusual, and embrace yourself as an individual. You appreciate unconventional methods and are willing to push yourself outside of your comfort zone.

Favourable Dates: January 4, 5, 13, 14, 22, 23 Favourable Colours: Red & Green

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Aquarius (20 January – 18 February) This month brings a shift of focus to more creative, sociable, and pleasure-seeking activities. Surprises are in store, and they’re pointing you in new directions You feel creative, inspired, and want to have some fun. The inner risk-taker is awakened now, and it will be important to have some sense of where you might be headed before you take off. Small risks, however, could very well pay off.

Favourable Dates: January 2, 5, 11, 14, 20, 23 F Favourable Colours: Green & Yellow Pisces (19 February – 20 March) This is a good time for going back to a career you used to be in, or taking up a goal you used to have. This can be a good time to focus on your spirituality, and strengthen your spiritual self. You are beginning a period best used for emotional renewal, tying up loose ends, and laying low.

You may come across as more sensitive, vulnerable, and imaginative.

Favourable Dates: January 3, 6, 12, 15, 21, 30 Favourable Colours: White & Yellow

Aries (21 March – 19 April) You can create opportunities for yourself, take advantage of ones presented to you, and take charge of your life, starting a whole new journey. You may be presented with opportunities that you never thought you’d have. Good relationships can be brought to the next level, and you become more committed. You can fulfil some commitments you’ve made, or give up on them. Having balance in your life becomes more important in keeping yourself sane.

Favourable Dates: January 3, 9, 12, 18, 21, 27 Favourable Colours: Blue & Grey

Taurus (20 April – 20 May) You may put focus on your sense of self-esteem, self-worth, and your value system. You’re likely to be focused more on your own desires, and want to do what you want to do, not what anyone else wants, and certainly not your duties.

This can be a good time for going out a lot, meeting someone new or rekindling romance, being creative and inspired, and being enthusiastic about what it is you find fun.

Favourable Dates: January 1, 2, 10, 11, 19, 20 Favourable Colours: White & Purple

Gemini (21 May – 20 June) You feel most like yourself and enjoy yourself when you’re focusing on the serious aspects of your life, getting closer to others, and obsessing over something. If single, you’re attracted to powerful people. You may come across as dark, brooding, and seductive. If you are in a relationship, you may show a potential for a struggle to keep the authenticity and morale of the relationship, which can at times be exhausting and challenging.

Favourable Dates: January 7, 8, 16, 17, 25, 26 Favourable Colours: White & Black

Cancer (21 June – 22 July) This is a time for feeling personally hopeful, emotionally satisfied, and socially popular. This period is best for any revising, editing old work, or doing something again you wanted another chance at. You could also go back to work for someone you worked for before, or in a job you worked

in before. Friendships might be renewed or revitalized.

However, there can be a strong temptation to impulsively act on a secret desire.

Favourable Dates: January 1, 6, 10, 15, 19, 24 Favourable Colours: White & Grey Leo (23 July – 22 August) You have more energy and can stick with something more easily if it’s a mental task. Anything that requires physical energy will be hard for you. If you’ve been putting in hard, smart work, acting responsibly and making good decisions, you can make progress with your career, are offered the opportunity of a lifetime, experience great success, or achieve a big goal you’ve set for yourself.

Favourable Dates: January 1, 3, 19, 21, 28, 30 Favourable Colours: White & Purple

Virgo (23 August – 22 September) You feel most like yourself and enjoy yourself when you’re in the spotlight, getting attention from loved ones, and putting yourself out there. You’re not happy being left in the shadows, and want to come out into the light. You can be recognised for something you’ve done, and presented with a new opportunity. If single, you have little trouble meeting potential suitors, and seem more attractive. If in a relationship, you’re more romantic with your partner.

Favourable Dates: January 10, 12, 19, 21, 28, 30 Favourable Colours: White & Yellow

Libra (23 September – 22 October) You have an easier time facing the past, your issues, your subconscious, and your karma, and work on letting go. You find that as you let things go, more opportunities come into your life. Your initiative is stronger than usual from mid-month, and your taste for the new and untried is powerful. A partner is in your corner, and an important meeting of minds can occur in the last week of the month.

Favourable Dates: Jan 1, 8, 10, 17, 19, 26 Favourable Colours: White & Yellow

Scorpio (23 October – 21 November) You’re more serious and focused on the things you hold deep inside of yourself. You can achieve everything you’ve set out to do, rewarded for all of the hard, smart work you’ve put in over the months. You have more energy, confidence, stamina, and drive when you have someone by your side. You can focus on your relationships, and try to see what you can do to make them better.

Favourable Dates: Jan 2, 9, 11, 18, 20, 27 Favourable Colours: Green & Yellow Sagittarius (22 November -21 December) You put more emphasis on your relationships, and like having a partner. You’ll likely begin an important new partnership, personal or professional, and it’s something that opens you up in new ways. You recognize the importance of healthy relationships, and strive to have that in your life. You can benefit from joining a group, or joining forces with a friend. This is a good time to focus on your spirituality, and enhance it.

Favourable Dates: Jan 4, 9, 13, 18, 22, 27 Favourable Colours: Blue & White

manishastroconsultant manish@manishastrologer.com

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A quiet night in...

Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste NG

In Shaker Heights, a placid, progressive suburb of Cleveland, everything is planned - from the layout of the winding roads, to the colours of the houses, to the successful lives its residents will go on to lead. And no one embodies this spirit more than Elena Richardson, whose guiding principle is playing by the rules. Enter Mia Warren - an enigmatic artist and single mother - who arrives in this idyllic bubble with her teenaged daughter Pearl, and rents a house from the Richardsons. Soon Mia and Pearl become more than tenants: all four Richardson children are drawn to the mother-daughter pair. But Mia carries with her a mysterious past and a disregard for the status quo that threatens to upend this carefully ordered community. When old family friends of the Richardsons attempt to adopt a Chinese-American baby, a custody battle erupts that dramatically divides the town--and puts Mia and Elena on opposing sides. Suspicious of Mia and her motives, Elena is determined to uncover the secrets in Mia's past. But her obsession will come at unexpected and devastating costs. Little Fires Everywhere explores the weight of secrets, the nature of art and identity, and the ferocious pull of motherhood - and the danger of believing that following the rules can avert disaster.

The Commuter

In this action- packed thriller, Liam Neeson plays an insurance salesman, Michael, on his daily commute home, which quickly becomes anything but routine. After being contacted by a mysterious stranger (Vera Farmiga), Michael is forced to uncover the identity of a hidden passenger on his train before the last stop. As he works against the clock to solve the puzzle, he realizes a deadly plan is unfolding and is unwittingly caught up in a criminal conspiracy. One that carries life and death stakes, for himself and his fellow passengers.

American Made

In the 1980s, licensed commercial pilot Barry Seal takes a job flying for an airline and covertly getting drugs onto the plane.

As a double agent of sorts, he is also working undercover for the CIA. His wife, Lucy Seal, must take evasive actions in order to protect their family from those who would do them harm. A crew of vigilantes and other CIA agents adds to the chaos behind the activities. Most of the action takes place in the southern United States and into Central and South America.

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FREE AFFINITY LUXURY LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

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A Year for You From writing lists to glowing skin

JANUARY 2018 ISSUE 80

Beauty Edit This month's newest trends

An Oasis of Calm A Sri Lankan Dream

Midlife Madness

Reliving her youth

Eat Well

Recipes you'll love