Affinity Magazine January 2013

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JANUARY 2013

JANUARY 2013

ISSUE 20

FREE

Animal Kingdom Fashion to bring out the animal in you Midlife Madness

MILLMAN

Jewellers of Distinction 2 Church Arcade Bedford TEL 01234 354026

AFFINITY MAGAZINE

Melodramas of a 40 something

21

Ways to be Happy

Happy New Year

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

Affinity December 2012 Cover _Layout 1 copy 16/11/2012 07:13 Page 2

Make it sparkle, MAKE IT PAVÉ

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D DATE ATE

SHOW SHOW

TIME

D DATE ATE

SHO SHOW W

TIME

Friday 4 January

e Viennese Spectacular New Year

7.30pm

Saturday 16 March

Pianos & Choirs with Beethoven

7.30pm

Wednesday 9 January

Tea Dance Winter Ball

2.00pm

Sunday 17 March

Russell Kane

8.00pm

Friday 11 January

The Drifters

7.30pm

Wednesday 20 March

Rich Hall

8.00pm

Wednesday 16 January

Philharmonia Orchestra

7.30pm Friday 22 March

Bedford Comedy Club

9.00pm

Friday 22 March

Ceroc

7.45pm

Friday 25 January

Bedford Comedy Club

9.00pm

Friday 25 January

Ceroc

7.45pm

Saturday 26 January

A Festival of Britten

7.30pm

Saturday 23 March

Philharmonia Orchestra

7.30pm

Sunday 27 January

Hawkwind

7.30pm

Sunday 24 March

Wrestling Spectacular

3.00pm

Wednesday 6 February

Jimeoin

8.00pm

Saturday 6 April

An Evening with Joe Calzaghe

6.15pm

Friday 8 February

ABBA Forever

8.00pm

Wednesday 10 April

Tea Dance

2.00pm

Saturday 9 February

Lee Hurst

8.00pm

Wednesday 10 April

Sean Lock

8.00pm

Wednesday 13 February

Tea Dance

2.00pm

Friday 15 February

Philharmonia Orchestra

7.30pm

Friday 12 April

Showaddywaddy

8.00pm

Tuesday 16 April

Milton Jones

8.00pm 8.00pm

Sunday 17 February

Wedding Showcase

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Friday 22 February

Bedford Comedy Club

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Saturday 2 March to Saturday 9 March

Bedfordshire Festival of Drama, Speech and Music

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Sunday 10 March

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Saturday 27 April

Chas and Dave

7.30pm

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Cover Image Model - BHS

www.affinitymag.co.uk @affinitymagz

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

Welcome...

Hi Everyone

What did 2012 hold for you?

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

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

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 www.regallitho.co.uk

Here at Affinity it’s been a pretty great year, we welcomed our fantastic Advertising Manager Julia to the team, have grown our distribution, built brilliant relationships with our advertisers and readers and held our first hugely successful Charity Ball. All-in-all we’ve had quite a year!! And 2013 looks like being even better!

As we leave 2012 behind and move into 2013 we all look at ourselves and our lives and decide on change – so we decided to have a little change here at Affinity. We know you love reading our features so we have added a couple of new regular ones the first following on from our highly successful ‘Yummy Mummy’ is ‘Midlife Madness!!’ I beg anyone not to relate to the escapades she gets up to!!

Second, is a different take on Fitness from Celebrity Fitness Trainer Adam Cochrane - I think he is saying we women are far better at fitness and motivation than men (who are we females to disagree with the words of a professional!) turn to page 19 to read all about it.

Have you always dreamed of looking like a star, well look no further than page 14 where we have a fantastic prize from Bonds Hair of Wellingborough. They are offering a lucky reader the chance to have Remy Temple Hair Extensions worth £300!

Finally, wherever you choose to celebrate the New Year be sure to have a fantastic time and from all of us at Affinity………

Happy New Year!

Jane x *Last month’s December Hair Feature was brought to us as usual by the highly talented Kelly Gay – www.klghairadvice.com

Affinity January 2013 _Layout 1 copy 17/12/2012 12:42 Page 8

Seasonal Affective Disorder T

he excitement of Christmas and New Year celebrations are behind us and it looks as if we’re in for a long, hard winter. With a lack of sunshine from long nights and short days, SAD more commonly known as Seasonal Affective Disorder will strike as early as September with the onset of autumn, but for many the winter months are the worst. Typical symptoms can be a mixture of and include, a low mood, a sense of hopelessness, lack of energy and enthusiasm, wanting to sleep longer, craving carbohydrates (with weight gain as a result), loss of interest in activities you usually enjoy, lack of concentration and focus and an inability to process information. These are typical symptoms of mild to moderate depression, but if you only notice them in late autumn and winter, you could well be one of the millions suffering from SAD. Here are a few tips to help you through the darkest months: • Vitamin D is known as the sunshine vitamin and the most effective way to absorb the vitamin is through exposure to sunlight with 15 minutes daily exposure to daylight – oily fish, some dairy products and fortified cereals are our best sources of vitamin D. Deficiency is common, especially with the use of very strong sun protection creams and this can have a profound effect on our health. Supplementation needs the advice of a health professional.

• 30 minutes exercise a day in daylight hours. The fact that numerous studies show that moderate exercise is beneficial for our health in many ways, but particularly in lifting a low mood.

wonderful herbs that can be taken regularly with few side-effects. Again, it’s advisable to check with a herbalist, rather than self-medicate, particularly if you are taking any prescribed medication.

• A regular dose of the vitamin B group of vitamins really helps energy levels and a sense of calm wellbeing.

• Omega 3 essential fatty acids also, particularly in the form of EPA and DHA, can be helpful. So, including more oily fish, nuts and seeds in our diet is a great idea.

• Down on coffee and alcohol, as an excess of either, or both, of these depletes minerals and vitamins from the body and becomes a depressant and contributes to us feeling low and irritable.

• There are many essential oils which can have an antidepressant effect and lift your mood, without sedating you, including jasmine, neroli, clary-sage, lemon grass, ylang-ylang , bergamot, rose geranium.

Lavender is one of the safest essential oils and is known for its calming properties. A herbalist can also make a personalised mix for you to use at home, depending upon your symptoms. Consult a professional herbalist as with essential oils care should be taken, particularly if you have high blood pressure or are pregnant.

These are just a few ideas to help SAD naturally, but if you suffer from more deep-rooted depression, Naturopathy and Herbal Medicine can offer a way to heal the mind, body and spirit.

• St Johns Wort is the most common herb used for seasonal depression, but there are numerous other

For further information contact Carolyn Wood-Herbalist and Naturopath MAMH, MANP, ITEC 07944 886502 carolyn@vedatherapeutics.co.uk www.vedatherapeutics.co.uk

Affinity January 2013 _Layout 1 copy 17/12/2012 12:42 Page 9

.

CONTENTS 14 20 28 34 41 47 56 58 63 66

Win! Win! Win! Midlife Madness New Year, New You A Bit of Spice Ways to be Happy Leather Look Look After Yourself Recruitment Help Let it Snow Man of the Month

Affinity January 2013 _Layout 1 copy 17/12/2012 12:42 Page 10

l u f i t u a BeHair...

A

s we get older our hair changes, so it’s important to add the right products and care to your routine to keep hair looking as young as you feel!

Those in their 20's will more often than not change their style most frequently, and with a host of styling tools and a market stocked full of colourants, it means we've never had more opportunity to change what nature gave us.

Keep hair in prime condition by using a deep nourishing masque at least once a fortnight. It's important to always use heat defence products, and to give your hair a rest in between all the style changes. You should find your hair will be full of shine and natural body, and by keeping a healthy diet it will show on the outside.

12

Once you hit 30, you will find hair may become lacklustre, and may even develop a few greys.

Try changing your routine to include more moisturising products that will boost shine.

Include the use of serums, and look for volume boosting mousses to help give hair a big and bouncy finish. If you find yourself reaching for the bottle - of colour that is! - go for shades around your natural tone, or up to three shades lighter. This prevents damage to the hair and is a lot more manageable.

Affinity January 2013 _Layout 1 copy 17/12/2012 12:42 Page 11

At

e g A Any

For ladies in their 40's and over, you may find that hair changes in texture and condition. Thinning hair can be a symptom of menopause and can be distressing and unwelcome; your stylist can help give you a haircut that will help hide this. Look for a style that is easily maintained and avoids excessive heat styling as this can damage hair.

Your natural growth also slows at this stage, so you will find that after shedding, the hair doesn't replace itself as quickly. Kelp supplements can help hair strength and growth, and look for Zinc and Iron supplements which can also help your hair. A great trick for faking more hair is to gently back comb or crimp the underneath of the hair, no one will know and you'll get a great boost.

Getting older doesn't mean hair needs to get shorter. Break the mould by looking at celebs such as Helen Mirren, Goldie Hawn and Susan Sarandon. Inspirational 'mature' ladies who don't feel that once you hit a certain age it's all helmet hair and blue rinses. Find a stylist who can give you a cut and colour that suits your personality rather than your age – there are no set rules! Your hair, your choice.

One thing that remains crucial throughout is the need to make sure you are helping hair with a balanced diet and additional supplements if required. Fad diets may have quick results on your waistline, but they also have a damaging effect on your skin, hair and nails. Always consult your GP before taking supplements and stop if you get any side effects.

Beautiful hair at any age can be achieved, and maintained, with some TLC from you. Give your hair the best, and it’ll never give away your age.

For more hair tips from Kelly visit our Hair Clinic at www.affinitymag.co.uk KellyGay www.klghairadvice.com

Affinity January 2013 _Layout 1 copy 17/12/2012 12:42 Page 12

WIN! WIN! WIN!

£300 Hair Extensions Courtesy of Bond Hair New Year New You? Well here's your chance Bond Hair of Wellingborough is offering one lucky Affinity reader the gift of glamour: a set of professional hair extensions worth £300.

The prize will entitle the winner to a full head of Indian Remy Temple hair extensions, (up to 20” length non-damage due to the use of a keratin tip), including consultation and colour match, removal of the bonds and a Tangle Teezer™ brush.

(Please note that the prize is subject to pre-treatment allergy checks) To enter, please answer the following question and send to info@affinitymag.co.uk including your name, age and phone number:

Which of these is a musical touring the UK in 2013? a. Shampoo b. Hairbrush Bond-Hair-Extension c. Hairspray @bondhair

www.bondhair.com

Closing date is 20th January 2013 - winner will be selected at random after this date

Affinity January 2013 _Layout 1 copy 17/12/2012 12:43 Page 13

Kerry Cash and 5th Avenue Celebrate 15 years

Fun and Games

Happy Birthday

A

ward-winning businesswoman Kerry Cash and her 5th Avenue team celebrated 15 years in the hair and beauty business with a sparkling party night at the Sharnbrook Hotel. More than 150 clients, friends and business associates came along to support and enjoyed fizz, canapé and a fabulous evening of entertainment.

Cup Cakes were given out to all guests & fun presentations including Staff achievements & Kerry's first therapist Tammie, who talked about the early days. A wonderful 15th anniversary cake was wheeled on to the tune of Happy Birthday, and a tribute by staff to Kerry about fantastic memories and past salon events.

There were special treatment promotions on the evening, and a chance to win a Mercedes A Class for a weekend.

5th Avenue marked the launch of their new business interest with Mercedes Benz in true style and look forward to offering beauty treatments for Mercedes Benz customers in the New Year. A launch evening will take place at Mercedes showroom in Ampthill Road, Bedford on Thursday 17th January 2013.

Brilliant bands were booked to entertain and there was a game show format along the lines of the Generation Game. Staff teamed up to demonstrate the perfect hair up and relaxing hand massage. Guests then had the opportunity to have a go themselves! All lots of fun and possibly some new prospective team members!

The night would not have been complete without dancing as Kerry was star contestant in the popular Strictly Bedford dancing competition in November. At the party she and show partner Jeff performed their cha-cha live and then Strictly friends from The Court Ballroom joined in for the jive.

As always with Kerry and 5th Avenue, the event was not all about businesses or reward, it was also about charity

and the raffle raised an outstanding £800.00 for Bedford Day Care Hospice.

"Everyone was so generous, I really hope all of our guests had a great evening," said Kerry, "We are all looking forward to great things in 2013 and by working with positive partners we can help each other to look good and feel great.”

Always training to offer a winning service Our multi-award winning Hair and Beauty team offer the complete range of services under one roof, 7 days a week, with four late night openings until 9 pm. Team members have attended training courses throughout the year and one therapist won an outstanding achievement award at Bedford College’s Award ceremony last month. In January Kerry and her senior stylist Jo go to Las Vegas to attend a hairdressing symposium attracting 10,000 salon owners and stylists from all over the world.

Fabulous Founder Kerry opened 5th Avenue on 7th December 1997 - it was a true test of talent as her main stylist didn’t join until the 29th! Since then Kerry has developed the team & expanded the business giving work to twenty five stylists and therapists during the year.

She was President for Bedfordshire BusinessWomen 2011 – 2012 during which time the group grew from 36 to 126 members. Her nominated charity received £23,000 from various fundraising throughout the year.

Kerry won Bedfordshire Business Woman of the Year 2012 and the salon received recognition for gaining runner up prize in two categories at the FSB Bedfordshire Business Awards and three hair teams reached national hairdressing finals this year.

Join our 700 friends on Facebook to read all our latest news.

Affinity January 2013 _Layout 1 copy 17/12/2012 12:43 Page 14

H

STRETCH

away

ow many of us, and by us I mean men as well as women, have stretch marks?

Whether it’s from weight loss, child birth, body building or many other reasons there is one thing we all agree on we DON’T like them, we feel conscious of them and wish for a miracle cure!

Well I may have found that miracle cure for all of you.

Off I go in the name of research to visit the lovely Susie Bavister poropiertor of Creative Beauty, Bedford who specialises in micropigmentation, a medical procedure that Susie is fully trained in and which includes semi permanent make-up and non laser tattoo removal.

She has now added some other treatments to her list such as softening the appearance of stretch marks, scar fading and burn treatments.

So I was going to be brave for all you Affinity readers out there and see if it did actually do what it said!

Initially I had a consultation with Susie, something she offers to all her clients to discuss their requirements, problem areas, the procedure etc. Susie knows I am the biggest baby there is when it comes to any type of medical procedure but she assured me she would numb the area she was going to work on and I wouldn’t feel a thing!

without the cream as I wanted to report what it was actually like.

The treatment works on softening the appearance of stretch marks/burns/scars by using a micro needling procedure which creates a trauma to the scar/injury, which then encourages your own collagen to come and repair the damaged skin, thus slowly taking away your scar tissue.

Six to eight sessions are recommended at 4 weekly intervals.

Initially the area was very red, which is to be expected, but after a couple of days the redness had gone and I have to say there seems to be an improvement already.

I have my next treatment in 4 weeks and will give you an update in next month’s issue.

Susie is very gentle and caring and makes you feel at ease straight away - if she can cope with my phobia she can cope with anyone!

So if you have any stretch marks, scars, burns or other skin problems or if you want an unwanted tattoo removed or semi permanent make up applied then contact Susie and she will be happy to meet you and discuss your requirements.

Now I’m not saying I’m a sceptic but I was extremely nervous. After waiting half an hour for the cream to work I lay on the couch, petrified it wouldn’t have taken, but rest assured it had and all I could feel was a small vibration on my tummy!

Even without the numbing cream it’s not painful, it’s a vibrating needle just touching the surface of your skin and it feels like a slight scratch BUT with me it is the whole needle phobia thing and just thinking about it made me tense – I did try it for 5 minutes initially

susie.bavister@live.co.uk 07971 456636 www.susiebavister-permanentmakeup.co.uk

Affinity January 2013 _Layout 1 copy 17/12/2012 12:43 Page 15

sie Baviste

r

Su

at

Creative Beauty

Susie Bavister - Creative Beauty Cosmetic Tattooist

Rejuvi non laser tattoo removal!

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Non laser treatment Most tattoos removed in 3 - 5 sessions Performed by a qualified micro pigmentation artist Sessions at 8 - 12 week intervals NOT a DIY fade product

I am a trainer for tattoo removal for Finishing Touches (who I trained with). They are one of the UK’s largest training schools

Semi Permanent Make-Up & Medical Tattooing • Semi Permanent Eyelash Enhancement (to give a fuller effect lash line) • Semi Permanent Eyeliner • Semi Permanent Eyebrows, (Hair simulated or Powdered effect) • Semi Permanent Lip Colour, (lip liner, lip blush, full lip colour) • Nipple & Areola • Skin Grafts & Burns • Scar Treatment • Cleft Lip • Stretch Mark Treatment

Normally £200 offer price £170 Normally £250 offer price £210 Normally £295 offer price £245

J an u a sp eci a ry l off with t e r h is a d ver t Before

Before

After

After

FREE consultation with a skin allergy test before any treatments are undergone

susie.bavister@live.co.uk 07971 456636 www.susiebavister-permanentmakeup.co.uk

Affinity January 2013 _Layout 1 copy 17/12/2012 12:43 Page 16

Twighlight Saga T

he holiday season is nearly over, the madness of Christmas, the burning the candle at both ends at all those parties is becoming just a distant memory and you are absolutely exhausted, so what better way to recharge those worn out batteries than an evening of self indulgence and pampering with the ‘Twilight Spa Plus’ at The Day Spa at Whittlebury Hall, which is exactly where I went to unwind, refresh and savour some ME time after weeks of non-stop working, socialising and everything else that goes with Christmas and New Year!

We arrive at dusk and change into our fluffy gowns and luxury slippers where we then proceed to enjoy the stimulating combination of the heat and ice experiences, including the sanarium, sauna, steam bath, caladrium, as well as the ice cave and hydrotherapy pool – all complemented by sensual smells. I was certainly starting to feel relaxed and refreshed when I made my way up to the treatment rooms for my ESPA Energising Express Facial.

I was taken into the peaceful treatment room where my therapist proceeded to deep cleanse and exfoliate my face, followed by a soothing acupressure massage and lymph drainage, whilst a face mask was left on I had a stimulating scalp massage, which left me calm and refreshed whilst my skin looked radiant and hydrated – told you I was only 20!

Whilst I had this treatment my husband had a sensory foot massage that he was so relaxed with he fell asleep.

A little peaceful time on the loungers around the pool before heading to the Terrace Café for antipasti and wine (you can choose a soft drink, but I felt it would be rude to decline the wine!)

Now we were truly relaxed and chilled out, a little more time on the loungers was called for before a dip in the pool (which we had all to ourselves) and a few bubbles for me (the Jacuzzi type for a change!)

I was now fully rejuvenated, my batteries recharged and I was ready to face my busy life all over again.

So after all the stresses, strains, parties and over indulgence of Christmas and New Year why not book a Twilight Spa and escape to your pamper heaven for a little while!

The Twilight Spa is £55 per person, available every Monday - Friday between 4:30pm and 10pm, and Sunday between 4pm and 8pm.

The Day Spa at Whittlebury Hall 0845 400 0002 www.whittleburyhall.co.uk

Affinity January 2013 _Layout 1 copy 17/12/2012 12:43 Page 17

If WOMEN were as physically strong as men, they would kick our backside at all sports!

“With Olympic fever now over - men are falling short of the mark”

C

elebrity fitness trainer Adam Cochrane has had enough of training ‘whinging’ men who are falling short of their female counterparts.

“The majority of blokes who train cannot get anywhere near the level of effort that a woman can give in a session” says Cochrane.

“Blokes give up quicker and cannot seem to stand it when the exercise gets a bit tough.”

With a BA in sports science and over a decade training celebrities, such as Hannah Waterman for her best-selling DVD and presenter Katy Hill, Adam should know.

Cochrane is frustrated and bemused at the continuing trend, with women far less likely to cancel sessions, even

if it's really bad weather and the training is outside.

Blokes on the other hand can be “devious” and have several "colds" in any given month – and are prone to sending last minute texts giving feeble excuses. Women on the other hand are more open to training, even if they don’t feel great.

While everyone is watching the Olympics, it is the women who are actually approaching fitness with a positive attitude: “I am sure there are loads of hard-core blokes out there that do push themselves. However, in my experience, men that will push themselves as hard as the women do are few and far between. Women are far better at giving maximal effort. For example if I ask a woman for one more hard lap of a football pitch and to give it everything, it will be done with little or no negative feeling. If I ask the same thing of a bloke, well typically they stop and give me war and peace why they cannot do it.”

Cochrane recounts a time when a client once cancelled his afternoon session by text at lunchtime because he had terrible flu, only to be spotted on the dance floor giving it some John Travolta that night. Needless to say he was given his marching orders.

Cochrane feels like men need a wake up call and he is considering training only women from now on: “Many blokes do not last that long with me as I hold up a mirror and tell them the truth. When that happens most (not all to be fair) get the hump and bugger off. Women respond better, they see it as a challenge - they seem to have a better ‘I will not be beaten attitude’. It’s time for blokes to man up if they are going to get as much out of training as women.”

Martin Trainer, one of the very few hardworking male clients

Adam Cochrane’s hardworking BOOTCAMP girls

Adam Cochrane 07887 853218 or email adam@adamcochranefitness.co.uk adamcochranefitness

www.adamcochranefitness.co.uk

@adamcochrane

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Midlife Madness A

s January sales beckon once again, in fact now there always seems to be a sale somewhere, and if you are like me you simply won’t be able to resist the chance of a bargain. That gorgeous bag, the shoes you had your eye not to mention the lovely dress that is just such a bargain it doesn’t matter that you’ve no occasion to wear it! It will just give you a ‘glowy’ feeling to know it is hanging in your wardrobe.

experience in Abercrombie and Fitch in London (couldn’t undo the lock and of course the loud music made it impossible for any of the assistants to hear my cries for help), I always check the lock before I go inside and lock it.

The worst experience I have had to date was trying on a dress (reputedly size 12 but clearly an 8), it went on ok but when I tried to take it off it got stuck with my arms above my head - I couldn’t see anything or move at all.

Then to make matters worse one of the hooks from the dress caught on my bra, which pinged off and catapulted upwards inside the dress (which was still above my head with my arms pinned inside it). That was when I remembered I was wearing seriously unflattering pants!

Just when I thought things couldn’t get any worse they announced the shop would be closing in 5 minutes! I was then completely overtaken by a fit of the giggles, which is okay when you are with mates but when you are alone with your arms stuck above your head in a dress that can’t be moved up or down and has your bra held hostage inside it, could lead people to think you are a stark raving lunatic! Clearly I escaped but it wasn’t my finest hour.

But this year I am going to be prepared!. I have had too many awful experiences in fitting rooms. It’s bad enough being an older woman shopping, but its not a crime at post 50 to still want to look good is it? First there is the whole size issue. I am a 12 – honestly, well occasionally on a bad day maybe a 14- but I do always feel really stupid when I take a 12 into the fitting room and can’t even get it to stretch over my bum or tum – not, you understand because there is anything wrong with either of those parts of my anatomy but because it is blatantly not a REAL 12, but some malicious attempt by retailers to make me feel overweight as well as ‘overaged’!

Then there are the other shoppers. People who I am sure in their normal walks of life are polite and courteous, but are suddenly possessed by some bargain hunting demon that means they will rip things from your hands, unless you have a very firm grip on the hanger, push you out of the way as they reach across to grab the item you were just going to pick up, and obviously don’t give two hoots if they tread on your feet, elbow you out of the way, jostle or commit just less than grevious bodily harm.

Finally there are the fitting rooms. I am sure we have all been in them and hated them. The worst I think are the communal ones because they are all filled with gorgeous sexy young things trying on things I’d still love to wear, you know the micro mini, the low cut top, the dress with the see-through bit at the waist, skinny jeans that are so low they show the thong even when you aren’t bending over. Oh, and they always seem to have lovely underwear when I always seem to be wearing substantial pants that once were white! But then the fitting rooms with curtains aren’t much better are they?

The curtains never really close and always have several hooks missing at the end and, of course, can be wafted open by people intentionally or otherwise as they pass by. The ones that are proper cubicles are the best, although following a nasty

So this year when I go shopping in the sales I will wear my best underwear, I will start with size 16 and work my way down, I will take a big handbag to do my own jostling and get in touch with my own inner bargain hunting goddess!! Or maybe I just won’t bother.

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Fitness

Personal

It’s January.....

Let the diet begin!

How many of you have said that in the last few days? There’s something about the start of a New Year that make us want to have a fresh start with our health and fitness and why not?

If the turning of a year is what you need to kick start a diet then so be it. But what diet to choose? There are so many diets out there it’s hard to know what is going to work for you.

I’ve compiled 4 of the most popular diets and broken them down for you.

Atkins Diet How it works: The Atkins diet, named after it’s creator Robert Atkins, involves limiting carbohydrates in your diet to alter the body’s metabolism so as to burn fat. It has been highly publicised with many celebrity endorsements, most famously by Robert Atkins himself. It has a four stage approach; Induction, where you have an intake of less than 20 grams of carbohydrates per day (12-15 grams of which must come in salad, fruit or veg), Ongoing Weight Loss which allows for an incremental increase of carbohydrates, Pre-Maintenance, which allows some of the previously ‘forbidden foods’ to creep back in and finally Lifetime Maintenance.

The pros: ⧫ The diet works. Thousands of people around the globe have lost weight following the Atkins plan. ⧫ Easy to eat out. Many restaurants are used to people asking for their meals minus the potatoes or the bread The cons: ⧫ A question asked: whether it is ‘healthy’ A lot of meat is consumed in this diet so there is a potential risk of eating a lot of fat, raising your cholesterol and in very severe cases causing kidney disease and gout. ⧫ It’s expensive. Analysis shows that the Atkins diet was 80% higher than the average shoppers food bill. ⧫ Not ideal for vegetarians. Due to the restriction on carbohydrates and encouragement of eating meat, a vegetarian or vegan would find this diet near enough impossible.

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Weight Watchers How it works: Each dieter is given a number of points per day and the goal is to stick to the points you’re given. Each meal has a number and it gets deducted from the daily total. You can earn extra points by taking part in sport and exercise. Its’ basis is a low calorie, high fibre diet where you burn more calories than you consume.

The pros: ⧫ Tonnes of support. Weight Watchers have really emphasized the ‘we’re in it together’ aspect of dieting which works brilliantly. ⧫ You can still have cheat meals as long as you are within your points. So if you know you have a big night out or a fancy dinner, you can exercise to gain more points ⧫ If team meetings and weekly weigh-ins are not your thing then everything can be done online.

The cons: ⧫ It can get pricey. Once you have paid for your joining fee and weekly membership it soon adds up.

Especially if you buy the Weight Watchers branded food too. ⧫ Feedback from members I know say a lot can depend on the Weight Watchers leader. Some leaders are born inspirers, some aren’t. So if you don’t get on with your particular leader then switch (or use the online service).

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Paleolithic diet How it works: This diet takes us back to basics. Eat like our ancestors: meats, nuts, seeds, fruit and veg, drink plenty of water and exercise in short bursts. This diet can seem a little extreme, but if we refer to our history books it is eating exactly as our ancestors did thousands of years ago. The theory is that our bodies haven’t evolved as much as our diets have and we can’t keep up. We’re not designed to eat processed foods, complex, starchy grains and hydrogenated fats, we were designed to eat fresh meat and fish, fresh fruit and veg and drink water - lots of it!

The pros: ⧫ Body fat drops almost instantly. I had one client lose 13 pounds in 2 weeks following this diet and he has kept every ounce off (and lost a lot more since then too!) ⧫ Less prone to illness and disease as you are eating clean, healthy food. Lots of vitamins and minerals absorbed due to high amount of vegetables and fruit. ⧫ Once the routine is established it’s really easy to maintain.

The cons: ⧫ Expensive. Meat, nuts, fruit and veg are probably double the price of starchy carbohydrates and fatty foods ⧫ Difficult for vegetarians to follow but not so much as the Atkins diet, as there is no restriction on the amount of veg you can eat. ⧫ Can be difficult to follow if you are used to a high carbohydrate diet (sandwiches, pasta, jacket potatoes

Jenny Craig: How it works: All your meals and snacks get delivered to your door in pre-sealed containers, which you either put in the fridge or freezer and follow the diet plan they have set you. It’s based around a low calorie, high fibre diet. The meals are balanced and follow a calorie intake of between 1300-2300 calories per day depending on age, gender and physical activity levels. You receive a weekly call from your counsellor where they discuss how you’re feeling and make any alterations required.They offer motivation and support.

The pros: ⧫ Everything is done for you. The planning, food preparation, snacks - everything! ⧫ A good variety of foods on offer so would be hard to get bored following this plan ⧫ Support from a weight loss counsellor The cons: ⧫ It’s very expensive. Prices range from £9-11 per day. Their website states that “Jenny Craig isn’t anymore than you would spend on food in a month normally” If I’m honest I’m not so sure. ⧫ It doesn’t teach you good habits. If you rely solely on eating the food that is prepared for you then you aren’t learning to cook healthy foods or choosing healthy foods when you’re out and about on you own. I’m sure it’s great to follow but in the long term I think it would be difficult to come off the program (I guess that’s what they want though!)

Conclusion: For me I always believe a diet is only as good as the person doing the diet. People will lose weight with any eating plan because they are sticking to a regime, whether it be low carb, low fat, high protein, high fibre - if you are controlling what goes in your mouth then you will undoubtedly lose weight.

Personally I follow the paleolithic diet. I lost 4 stone after the birth of my first baby and 3 after the birth of my second and am now pre-baby weight. I believe the key to good health and good weight loss is to eat clean, healthy food and most importantly..... eat enough of it. If you reduce your calories too much you will, of course, lose weight but when you get bored with feeling hungry or have a bad day and binge eat, your weight is going to ping right back where it was (and perhaps even heavier!)

If you need help with your eating habits then please feel free to get in touch at Julie Holl - Personal Trainer - Holl Fitness Studio 07808 739651 www.hollfitness.com

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Swar B wh

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It’s a Hoot

Owl Top £7.99 Pilot

Owl Pendant £9.50 Pilot

Internacionale Henry Holland Owl Jumper £38 Debenhams

Owl Bag £4.99 Internacionale

Owl Handwarmer £10 AWear

Owl Jumper £14 Primark

Owl Intarsia Jumper £40 Yumi

Sparkling Crystal Owl Rings £12.95 Whats About Town

Swarovski Crystal Owl Brooch £48.95 whattsabouttown

Twit Twoo Pull On Hat £17 Accesorize

Owl Applique Top in Black £16.99 Pilot

Owl Hat £6 Primark

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A Dog’s Life Jacket Internacionale

Elle Dress £185 Fran & Jane

Blazer £55 AWear

Houndstooth Panel Dress £35 The Vestry

Houndstooth Trilby £77 House of Fraser

Bead Necklace £10 Dorothy Perkins

Dogtooth Dress £39 M & Co

Maisy Dogtooth Bag £65 Pauls Boutique

Dogtooth Platform Court £22.99 Internacionale

Dogtooth Pencil Dress £39 M & Co

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Leopard

Grazia Style Dress £155 Fran & Jane

Leopard Print Jacket £50 Dorothy Perkins

Leopard Panel Dress £18 George at Asda

Leopard Print Skirt £12 F&F

Dress £45 Dorothy Perkins

Leopard Print Top £30 Dorothy Perkins

Belt River Island

Charm Bracelet River Island

Baroque Bracelet £10 Dorothy Perkins

Bixie Clutch £75 Dune

J by Jasper Conran Bag £125 Debenhams

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New Year, New You Top Tips for Glowing Results!

Everyone loves to indulge over the holiday season (and it’s most encouraged!) but come January the effects start to show. The Day Spa at Whittlebury Hall offers an extensive range of face and body treatments, to counteract the mince pies and wine and get you ready and glowing for the New Year!

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he latest and by far the most advanced facial treatment they offer is the ESPA Cellular Renewal Enzyme Peel Facial with clinically proven results to smooth, refresh and firm. It is perfect to peel away tired and dull looking skin to reveal youthful radiance, provide instant firming and a smooth plumped up appearance. Perfect to detoxify in time for 2013!

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o refresh, invigorate and detoxify the body, their expert Executive Therapists recommend Body Wraps. Their luxurious Elemis Aromaspa Cellutox Wrap includes a seaweed mask which naturally detoxifies the body whilst cocooned in a foil blanket. The use of a lemon and juniper based oil stimulates blood and lymphatic circulation to discourage water retention, cellulite and bloating – perfect for those who have been a little naughty over the festive period (aren’t we all?!) and want a much needed boost!

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on’t let lumps, bumps or dry skin put you off wearing the latest party frock – there’s still time to streamline your silhouette without hitting the gym! Using a body scrub every second day will help you shape up in the shower. As well as stimulating circulation and drainage, a good scrub instantly brightens skin and helps party season products such as cellulite cream, fake tan and moisturiser absorb more easily. Try the ESPA Detoxifying Salt Scrub for just £32. Rub in upward motions towards the heart to draw out impurities and boost skin tone, leaving you feeling uplifted with clearer, smooth, glowing skin.

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n ideal treatment for the festive season, whether you want to look great for your office party, a night out with friends, or want to rejuvenate yourself from the night before or relax from the stress of Christmas shopping, is the Elemis Lime and Ginger Salt Glow treatment. It promises to leave you feeling invigorated, cleansed and polished to perfection. The perfect body exfoliation ritual to invigorate and revitalise the body in time for the New Year!

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et that beautiful holiday glow even after a few too many mince pies, because, let’s face it, we all feel better with a little colour to our skin.

There’s no reason why this should change over the festive period! The Fake Bake range of fake tans suit all skin types. You can opt for the gradual sun kissed look or an Extreme Darkness Tan. The Day Spa’s specialist self-tans also offer added benefits such as anti-ageing, anti-cellulite and anti-oxidants. Plus, Fake Bake is fast becoming a celebrity favourite, so you’ll be keeping up with the trends as well as looking beautiful and glowing!

Prices range from £12 - £30.75 online.

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arty styling can take its toll on your hair as well as your skin, so protect it from splitting and repair any damage with Moroccan Oil. This treatment for hair completely transforms and repairs as its formula transports lost proteins for strength; fatty acids, omega-3 oils and vitamins for shine, and antioxidants for protection. It absorbs instantly to fill gaps in hair created by heat, styling and environmental damage.

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n addition, moisturising your skin everyday (use a moisturiser with SPF protection in it – even the dullest winter sun can be harsh on skin cells), using a gentle exfoliator to wash away dead skin cells and drinking plenty of water will help keep skin looking fresh, healthy and glowing in the New Year.

All of the above products and treatments can be bought online at www.whittleburyhall.co.uk and www.thedayspashop.co.uk

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Have you heard the

exciting news?

We’re kitting out

your club with fantastic

new fitness equipment Thanks for bearing with us while the changes take place, you’ll love the new ways to work out

01234 763 930 fitnessfirst.co.uk

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ASPIRE

BELIEVE

SUCCEED

ACHIEVE

at The Bedford Sixth Form Discover more at our next Open Day… Thursday 17 January 2013 5.00pm – 8.00pm

TOURS AVAILABLE

Pre-register online at: www.bedfordsixthform.ac.uk/events If you have your sights set firmly on university and beyond, The Bedford Sixth Form offers a brand new experience for you to discover after your GCSEs… More choice, more opportunities 35 A-Levels plus a range of BTEC Diplomas and GCSEs

Life beyond the classroom Challenge yourself and have fun as part of our student-led enrichment programme

Excellent pass rates With a 99% pass rate for A-Levels and a 96% pass rate for BTECs1

Experienced teachers Our teachers are experts in their field and include A-Level examiners with first-hand knowledge of how to achieve great exam results

Outstanding teaching Benefit from Ofsted ‘outstanding’-rated teaching and learning Fantastic facilities Providing the equipment and study spaces you need to achieve Personal support Your very own personal tutor for one-toone advice and guidance

A platform for success Almost 90% of our students go on to study at universities across the UK2 Financial help on hand A range of bursaries are on offer to help towards your travel costs and more 1 Source: Bedford College exam results summary 2012 2 Source: Bedford College-UCAS destinations report 2012

The Bedford Sixth Form... where you can achieve great things For more information or to pre-register visit:

www.bedfordsixthform.ac.uk/events 01234 291291 info@bedfordsixthform.ac.uk

The Bedford Sixth Form Bromham Road Bedford MK40 2BS

Lifestyle

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Let me sleep...

With the stresses and strains of 21st century living, do you spend bedtime tossing and turning, staring at the ceiling as the light begins to creep in through the curtains, letting the worries of the world weigh you down making it almost impossible to get any rest?

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Use thick blinds or curtains or wear an eye mask if the early morning sunlight or bright stree tlamps affect your sleep.

f this sounds like you, you are not alone. Insomnia affects about 30 per cent of us – with over 12 million prescriptions for sleeping pills written every year. Sleeplessness costs the NHS £36 million annually.

The bedroom should be kept cool, and your hands and feet warm.

Insomnia makes you desperate. Desperate not to be constantly exhausted and desperate not to dread every night.

Research shows that the core temperature of the body needs to drop at night, keeping extremities warm will shunt blood from the core to the periphery.

This is the first-line treatment for any sleep disorder.

But fear not, these recommended ways to get a good night sleep ARE proven to work:

Daytime habits Set a specific time for getting up each day. Stick to this time, seven days a week, even if you feel you haven't had enough sleep. This should help you sleep better at night.

Create a Bedroom Haven Don’t use the bedroom for anything other than sleeping and sex. DON’T watch TV, make phone calls, eat or work whilst you’re in bed.

Often people with sleep problems make the bedroom into an office. Removing unrelated items ensures it is only associated with sleeping, so it is seen as a place to relax rather than entertain.

DON’T take a nap during the day.

Wind Down According to research ‘Fitter people sleep better!’ But

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make sure you work out at least three hours before you go to bed, as endorphins and adrenaline could keep you awake.

You then need to focus on a relaxation routine that suits you.

We can't just switch our bodies off; we need a process of winding down. At the end of the day put an hour aside to relax away from the computer, and any other outside influences, and try to completely relax.

stable blood-sugar levels.

Eating carbohydrates (e.g.: pasta, bread, potatoes, sugar, etc) in the evening can induce an unwelcome 4am alarm call, thanks to a blood-sugar crash jolting your body awake to hunt for more food, says nutritionist and obesity researcher Zoë Harcombe (zoeharcombe.com).

"The macronutrient that disturbs sleep is carbohydrates," says Harcombe "Carbs are for energy not for the basal-metabolic repair work done overnight.

Eat them if you need to fuel a workout, but don't eat them before sleep."

Stop drinking tea and coffee four hours before bedtime.

Avoid drinking alcohol and smoking because alcohol and nicotine are also stimulants. Alcohol may make you sleepy at first but will wake you up when the effects have worn off.

Only go to bed when you're feeling tired and try to create a bedtime routine, such as taking a bath and drinking a warm, milky drink every night. These activities will be associated with sleep and will cause drowsiness.

DON’T lie in bed feeling anxious about sleeping. Instead, get up and go to another room for a short period and do something else, such as reading or watching television, and then try again.

Don't watch the clock because this will only make you anxious.

Write a list of your worries and any ideas to solve them, then try to forget about it until the morning.

Stabilise your Blood Sugar For a good night's sleep, make sure you go to bed with

White Noise Therapy You can buy a device that gives out a constant hum – such as the sound made by a fan blowing air, masking irrelevant noise. Or you can get other devices that give out the sound of the sea or rain.

Research has shown that white noise can help patients sleep in noisy environments. A 2008 survey of 2,000 poor sleepers showed that sound machines worked almost as well as medication.

The Pabobo Dream Theatre Light £64 from John Lewis or the Dohm White Noise Machine £64.99 from whitenoisemachine.co.uk are two such machines that could help.

Wake Up Gradually You can buy lamps that gradually increase the amount of light they emit, creating an artificial dawn or dusk.

Receptors in the eyes trigger the release of the hormones that regulate the sleep cycle.

Insomnia can often be prevented by changing your daytime and bedtime habits or by improving your bedroom environment. You should try the above for at least three to four weeks, making small changes will hopefully allow you to get a good nights sleep.

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Asia Lounge

Asia Lounge 66 High Street Bedford Mk40 1NT 01234 365366/360075 www.asialoungebedford.co.uk

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sia Lounge in the middle of Bedford offers a unique blend of Indian and Thai cuisine, where you are taken on a journey through flavour, where two of the world’s finest cuisines combine to produce the most memorable dining experience you’ve experienced.

Off we went on a cold dreary night to put their claims to the test, the big test for me would be to find dishes that were very mildly spiced, as I am a baby when it comes to anything too hot!!

We were given a wonderfully warm welcome and attentive service by Gul and his team, who proceded to make sure we had everything we needed before bringing over a bottle of bubbly (I loved it here already!)

We contemplated the delicious looking dishes on the menu over appetisers of homemade chutneys, flavoured poppadums and struggled to decide what to choose from the vast selection of dishes. In the end I played it safe and had Tandori Chicken; this was a superb choice, the chicken was tender and the subtle flavours of the herbs and spices crept through perfectly served with a cooling salad, this dish was perfect for me. My husband left his choices to the chef and was awarded with Soft Shell Crab, this was divinely cooked in a chilli & garlic tempura batter served with home made ginger, prune, mango & fig marmalade. The spices in it gave a real kick and it was cooked to perfection - something slightly different. Aubergine Stacks were also brought out for us to try, a combination of aubergine and potato lightly spiced in batter - yummy!

Main courses were of an equal high standard and just as tasty.

I decided to go for pan fried Black Cod served on a bed of stir fried brussel sprouts and asparagus, complemented with rosemary flavoured pepper sauce - all served with coconut rice. Don’t let the brussel sprout ingredient in this put you off, it was absolutely delightful, once eaten you will be hooked!!

The sauce complemented the flavours of the cod superbly.

This was a dish that was truly different as well as tasty. A selection of dishes were brought out for David that consisted of Kashmiri style shank of lamb braised with special spices & sesame seeds, marinated in strained yoghurt and pot roasted to melt in your mouth, which it certainly did! Served with spinach rice, the meat was just perfect and fell off the bone. The verdict - another perfect combination of flavours and an exquisitely presented dish.

A date and chilli naan complimented the next dish of stuffed chicken in a creamy coconut spicy sauce.

The menu has a large selection of vegetarian and fish dishes that are different from your usual choices.

I didn’t want dessert, but we had no choice as we were given the Asia Lounge platter for two which consisted of coconut haliva spring rolls, carrot samosas and vanilla ice cream.

There is really no words to describe this, my initial reaction was “I’m not eating a carrot samosa with ice cream,” but in the name of research I did and it was a taste made in heaven, who would have thought grated carrot and ice cream could taste so good!

The whole dining experience was unique and memorable, you definitely need to pay Asia Lounge a visit, the food is delicious, different and will not disappoint.

The service is faultless and suffice to say we felt like royalty for the whole evening.

Food & Drink

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Celebration Salmon Roast

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Ingredients 3 tbsp olive oil 600g frozen fillet wild salmon, in one piece 100g couscous 150ml hot vegetable stock Finely grated zest and juice of 1 orange 50g sultanas or raisins 50g ready-to-eat dried apricots, chopped.

50g ready-to-eat dried cranberries 25g blanched almonds or pistachio nuts.

25g pine nuts 1 tsp ras-el-hanout spice powder.

2 tsp chopped fresh rosemary or thyme.

Salt and freshly ground black pepper 1 orange, sliced, to garnish.

Rosemary sprigs, to garnish

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“

This salmon recipe is easy to bake and makes the perfect centrepiece for your dinner party or New Year buffet

To compliment the meal Calloway Crossing Chardonnay A crisp refreshing Chardonnay with aromas of melon and citrus fruits. The palate has ripe peach flavours and a touch of subtle oak £9.99 Tesco

Oxford Landing Sauvignon Blanc This wine is is bursting with zesty, citrus characters like an intense tropical fruit punch

Recipe Preheat oven to 150°C/GasMmark 2. Drizzle 1 tbsp of olive oil into a large roasting tin and place the frozen salmon on top.

£7.49 Waitrose

Put the couscous into a heatproof bowl and add the hot vegetable stock, orange zest and orange juice.

Leave to soak and swell for about 10 minutes, then add the sultanas/raisins, apricots, almonds/pistachio nuts, pine nuts, spice powder and rosemary or thyme to the couscous. Season and stir well. Spoon on top of the salmon, then cover the roasting tin with a sheet of foil.

Bake in the centre of the oven for 45 minutes, remove the foil and arrange the orange slices and rosemary sprigs on top. Return to the oven to cook for a further 10 to 15 minutes.

Barefoot Pinot Grigio This wine is crisp and full of citrus and peach flavours £6.59 Tesco

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0LO

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Pistachio Semi Freddo Ingredients For the Pistachio Brittle 100g Sugar 100ml Water 50g Pistachio For the Semi Freddo 1 Vanilla Pod 2oz Sugar 4 Eggs Separated 17 floz Double Cream

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

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6HU

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Method Pistachio Brittle Put the water and sugar in a pan on a high heat until it starts to caramelise, when this happens, take off the heat and allow the heat from the pan to carry on caramelising the sugar.

Once the sugar/water mixture is light golden in colour, add the pistachios and pour out onto baking parchment.

When completely cool, blend half of the brittle into a fine powder (crush with a rolling pin if you don’t have a blender), and crumble the other half to sprinkle on top of your semi freddo when made.

Semi Freddo (You can use a hand whisk or electric whisk) In a bowl, whisk egg yolks, sugar and the contents of one vanilla pod until a light, creamy consistency.

Whisk egg whites in a separate bowl until they form soft peaks.

In a separate bowl, whisk the double cream into soft peaks and then fold into the egg yolks, sugar and vanilla mixture, as well as the whisked egg whites Then add the powdered brittle and mix in.

Crumble the broken up pistachio brittle and sprinkle on top.

Finally, freeze. And bring out 30 minutes before serving, so it’s slightly soft but still chilled.

This dessert will be on our a la carte menu for January. Come in and have a try!

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Christmas Cookery events and Parties Not another Christmas party!

This year, do something different – learn to cook delicious food with your colleagues and friends, and celebrate the festive season in a very unique and enjoyable way. Cookery parties are interesting, affordable and tremendous fun.

Come and find out what everyone is talking about!

Lunch or Dinner cookery parties are available – ring us to discuss your requirements and budget.

Do something different...

Hold your Christmas Party at Inspired Gourmet – December dates still available. Hold a full lunch or dinner cookery event to include: welcome canapes and sparkling wine, 3 hours of cookery, 2 hours of private dining in our dining room, private chef instruction, recipe cards and exclusive use of the cookery school during your event. All of this for £60.00 per person (minimum of 6 people).

Cookery Course Gift Vouchers An Inspired Gourmet Gift Voucher is an ideal gift for the food enthusiast or someone new to cooking. And our gift vouchers can be made out in any amount and used towards the purchase of any of our cookery courses, personalised with the recipient’s name and a personal message.

Merry C

Happy

hristma

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This ce rtifi To any

love fro

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01908 692918 The Old Granary - Brooklands Farm Broughton - Buckinghamshire - MK16 0HU

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Affinity January 2013 _Layout 1 copy 17/12/2012 12:49 Page 39

21 WAYS TO BE HAPPY

January is grey, dreary and cold but that needn’t stop you from being happy.

Once you’ve read this list you’ll be smiling I promise!

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1

10

Create a Fun Break

Even if it’s for 10 – 15 minutes, schedule this time into your daily routine, perhaps during your lunchtime. Write out a fun list this will ensure you never have the excuse of not knowing what to do.

2 3

Laugh at yourself, laugh with your friends and family and colleagues. There are very few medicines as powerful as laughter, and you can’t over-dose, although it is addictive!

11

Reach Out If you feel helpless or out of your depth, help someone else - it takes the pressure away from you.

12

Play and have fun

Smile

13

Surround Yourself with Happy People

14

Remember the Good Times

Cuddle

According to researchers at the University of North Carolina, just 20 seconds of hugging releases the magic anti-stress hormone oxytocin into the blood stream.

8

Be Grateful and Appreciate What you Have

We all have many choices in life, one of which is whether to focus on all the things we don’t have (of which there might be many), or to focus on all the things we do have. There’s no doubt that gratitude and appreciation will significantly increase your chances of experiencing happiness.

9

Dance

Fake It Till You Feel It

Feelings follow actions. If you’re feeling low, deliberately act cheery and you will find yourself actually feeling happier. If you’re feeling angry at someone, do something thoughtful for him/her and your feelings toward them will soften. This strategy is uncannily effective.

Look back over your life and remember the happy times, list at least 5 funny or joyous moments, and remind yourself there are many more to come.

7

Find a Solution

Of all exercises dancing is the best way to get endorphin levels peaking. It is due to a winning combination of feel good factors, mood enhancing music, a fun work out and physical contact with others.

It is easy to begin to think negatively when you are surrounded by people who think that way.

Conversely, if you are around people who are happy their emotional state will be infectious.

6

It’s one of the simplest ways to change your mood. Breathe in for five seconds, hold for five seconds and then exhale for

When something goes wrong try to figure out a solution instead of wallowing in self-pity. Truly happy people don’t allow set backs to affect their mood because they know that with a little thought they can turn the circumstances back to their favour.

Sounds simple and it is. Try this today when you go out - smile at everyone you see. Yes, even strangers.The more you smile, the more people will smile back at you. Be prepared to be surprised at what comes back to you.

5

Breathe

five seconds.

Don’t take life too seriously. Although we all have responsibilities there’s no reason why we can’t approach much of our lives in a playful manner. In fact, those who do so will undoubtedly be happier.

4

Laugh Everyday

Create a Happy Box Fill a box with things that bring a smile to your face: letters, cards, photos, emails etc. When you feel down look at them.

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15

Turn Digital Pictures into Proper Ones

Remember the perfect group shot you took the last time all the girls/guys were together? Don’t leave it on a memory card , get it printed. Seeing a picture of you having fun makes you smile – Now!

16

Socialise

Interact with others as much as possible. Happy people have both more and better quality relationships. So as well as working to improve the quality of your relationships it’s also worthwhile working to improve the number of your relationships.

17

Finding Humor in Situations

This can also lead to happiness.

While there are times that require you to be serious, when it is appropriate find a way to make light of a situation that would otherwise make you unhappy.

18 19

Say Yes! Say yes to one thing you normally wouldn’t. Go on, dare you!

Think Yourself Happy

Spend a few minutes each day thinking about the things that make you happy. These few minutes will give you the opportunity to focus on the positive things in your life and will lead you to continued happiness.

20

Look at Something Blue

Research shows that looking at the colour blue, increases our brainwaves happiness levels. So grab yourself a blue top, blue nail varnish, or a holiday snap with blue sky and blue sea and stick it on your fridge.

21

Love well

Express your affection, appreciation, friendship and warmth to those around you, and they will almost always respond in the most amazing ways! Be generous--it pays great dividends!

43

Affinity January 2013 _Layout 1 copy 17/12/2012 12:49 Page 42

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Leather Look

Flavio Comfy Chesterfield Sofa ÂŁ1625 darlingsofchelsea.co.uk

Affinity January 2013 _Layout 1 copy 17/12/2012 12:49 Page 46

Leather Lamp £590 gong.co.uk

Elephant Doorstop £24.95 velvetbrown.co.uk Loft Black Mock Croc Leather Mirror £325 alexanderandpearl.co.uk

Aviator Tan Leather Bar Chair 575 alexanderandpearl.co.uk Doan £485 gong.co.uk

Blake Premium Brown Leather Coffee Table Trunk £625 alexanderandpearl.co.uk

Muggleswick Leather Armchair £1002 .artisanti.com

Muffin Seat £530 babatude.com

Large Leather Beanbag £350 darlingsofchelsea.co.uk

Aviator Brown Leather Egg Chair £1450 alexanderandpearl.co.uk

Affinity January 2013 _Layout 1 copy 17/12/2012 12:50 Page 47

Corium Pv1 Leather Pendant Light - Tan £499 rume.co.uk

Watch Clock £99 nordichouse.co.uk Line Leather Chest House of Fraser Storage Ottoman £569 darlingsofchelsea.co.uk

Vegas Silver Leather Storage Ottoman £595 alexanderandpearl.co.uk

Medium Pillow Box Black £70 gong.co.uk Aramis Vintage Leather Coffee Table Trunk £975 alexanderandpearl.co.uk

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Affinity January 2013 _Layout 1 copy 17/12/2012 12:50 Page 48

AffinityGardening

January Tips... ⧫ Recycle your Christmas tree – take it to your local recycling centre to be shredded into reusable mulch. ⧫ Prune established wisterias – prune back the side shoots shortened by the summer pruning to two or three buds, take care not to cut off the flower buds. ⧫ Plant out winter flowering plants, such as iris and heathers, to add colour to borders and patio pots. ⧫ Keep all flowering pot plants such as cyclamen, orchids and poinsettias watered and fed, removing any dead or dying flowers and leaves. ⧫ Keep wild bird feeders topped up with food, especially during prolonged frosty weather. ⧫ Check patios and paths for moss and algae and apply a patio cleaner if needed.

Flower of the Month

B

Hellebores are one of the great pleasures of the winter garden, bursting through empty soil and displaying their beautifully marbled and speckled blooms when there is little else in the borders to make you smile.

They thrive in the shade of trees and appreciate plenty of organic matter incorporated into the soil.

Once established they often mix freely and produce a charming range of seedlings which will differ each time, so keep a look out for interesting new colours all around your garden.

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Affinity January 2013 _Layout 1 copy 17/12/2012 12:51 Page 49

Be inspired…

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Find us within Carpets4Less, Caxton Road, Elms Farm Industrial Estate, Bedford MK41 0HT. Telephone: 01234 220077.

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Affinity January 2013 _Layout 1 copy 17/12/2012 12:51 Page 50

Rustic Rugs Paisley Wool Rug £79 very.com

Colours of Life Rug £350 per m② bazaarvelvet.co.uk

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Hand-stitched Shifting Sands Rugs £199 fairwindonline.com

Fluffy Multicoloured Rug £85 alhambrahome.co.uk

Twin Peaks £350 per m② bazaarvelvet.co.uk

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Orange & White Bedside Rug £25 alhambrahome.co.uk

Game Two Rug £350 per m② bazaarvelvet.co.uk

Santa Fe Rug £45 Very

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Lifestyle

Affinity January 2013 _Layout 1 copy 17/12/2012 12:52 Page 54

Learning to look after yourself I

So what can we do to beat those winter blues? Well the important thing is not the season, but the fact that as individuals we need to work out our own stress relieving strategies and our own ways of cheering ourselves up. We all know at least something about the effects of stress, probably we are also aware that depression is both increasingly common and something that can creep up on us.

t’s no surprise that after the rigors of the festive season many people reach January feeling exhausted and stressed – that’s one reason why days off work through sickness reach a peak at this time of year. Short days, those dismal days when many people set off for work in the dark and arrive home in the dark, the anticlimax that follows the holiday of Christmas and the New year and the fact that everyone knows in terms of payday, January is simply the longest month ever, conspire to make us all feel a bit low, if we are not careful. Of course we can look forward to a dose of sunshine but usually not until at least May!

So what can we do to protect ourselves? Well the first step is to make sure that we have some elements of balance in our life. A balance between work and rest, and a balance between mental and physical exercise will help to ensure our wellbeing. Making sure that we have a balanced diet, being sensible about our drinking and finding ways to look after our emotional health are also important.

“People are just as happy as they make up their minds to be” Abraham Lincoln

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But these things don’t just happen. Life is busy and full of competing demands from jobs, family and friends. We also all have our own goals, to have hobbies, undertake courses, travel etc and some people also have to cope with illness, either in themselves or their loved ones, or other significant events, house moves, bereavements, break ups and redundancies to mention but a few.

So the first thing you need is a thorough understanding of why it is important to look after yourself.

would enjoy as there is lots on offer from Zumba to yoga, squash to Tai Chi. If formal classes aren’t your thing then think about fitting a few walks into your weekly routine or maybe actually get the fitness DVD you got for Christmas out of its packet!! Another benefit of exercise is that it often helps us sleep better and problems with getting a goods nights sleep are increasing rapidly. The important thing with exercise is to realise that even small changes – a couple of walks a week for example - can still have a positive effect on our health

Take care of your body – it’s the only place you have to live!

Jim Rohn (American speaker and author) Basically we don’t get a rehearsal for life, how we live is our life. Work is important to a lot of us and for many people in a whole host of jobs, the service they provide is important to all sorts of people. However that certainly doesn’t mean we are either indispensible – we simply never can be, (there will always be someone else who will step up to the mark) – or so unimportant that we don’t count. What we know is that if people work for too long in jobs that are too demanding and don’t learn to have some balance between work and the rest of life, the consequences are always negative in terms of personal health and well being AND the impact on family and friends. It is all too easy if everyone else is working late to just follow suit, so if that’s a danger why not plan to do something that means you have to leave work at a reasonable time at least some nights of the week.

In all my years of counselling those near death I’ve yet to hear anyone say they wish they had spent more time at the office Rabbi Kuschner We all know it is much easier to eat a healthy diet when we have the right food in the house, so again a bit of planning may help us considerably – decide before you do your shopping what you want your diet to be like. If your trolley is full of crisps and cupcakes it will be tough to eat anywhere near five portions of fruit or vegetables each day, even though we know that is what is good for us.

It’s not a new idea either - a balanced diet and some exercise is something that was recognised as being important to health as long ago as in the time of Hippocrates.

If we could give every individual the right amount of nourishment and exercise we would have found the safest way to health Hippocrates But in the same way that it is hard to eat a balanced diet without a bit of forethought and planning, so it is hard to get enough exercise without a bit of planning and consideration. Be honest with yourself do you really get enough exercise? If not then think about exercise you

To keep the body in good health is a duty otherwise we shall not be able to keep our mind strong and clear Buddha In many ways, diet, exercise and some balance between work and life are the foundations – they are important and they may help t o prevent us becoming too stressed - but in order to really look after ourselves we have to first believe we are worth looking after. That gives us permission to build into our lives the things that take care of US. Important things like having friends we can share both our problems and joys with and making sure we keep on making time for them. We also need to make sure we build in some time each week to do things that we enjoy, watching a favourite TV programme, visiting a friend, reading a book, enjoying a hobby or taking up a new one and making sure we spend some good time with those we love.

This is NOT an indulgence, it is a necessity if we want to go on coping with the demands life throws at us and still keep physically and emotionally healthy.

The fact is most people feel they never have enough time and frankly that is not likely to change anytime soon– unless of course we decide to change it ourselves.

Time is a created thing. To say ‘I don’t have time’ is like saying, ‘I don’t want to’ Lao Tzu So you are worth looking after but you are the only one who can really do that. Take a little bit of time to think not about how you CAN do that, but how you WILL do that - intention is everything. Learning to look after ourselves isn’t optional, it really is a must. Undoubtedly today is the first day of the rest of your life so make sure you use it to live the way you want to, and for anyone who feels they need help in doing that contact the number below and book a session to explore your own life choices.

For more information or to discuss your own particular issues contact attuned education.:

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Affinity January 2013 _Layout 1 copy 17/12/2012 12:52 Page 56

Dominic Quirke

www.advancingpeople.co.uk

Curriculum Vitae

T

he Christmas break often gets people thinking about their life, are they achieving what they want out of it and do they have the challenge or balance they are looking for. This often leads to looking for a new role or a complete change of career.

control of the interview process.

The 24 hour CV shop window exists now when newspapers stop printing and this is the abundance of online job boards. In my opinion (in no particular order) the better “general” job boards include: Reed, Total Jobs, Monster and Job Site. If you specialise in a certain area simply use Google to search for these job boards e.g. Sales job boards UK.

The best place to start is the painful bit, your CV… This is often put off as long as possible but if you are serious about making a job move this is essential. However you apply for a role a CV is pretty much mandatory and is where it all begins.

Once you register online with your selected job boards simply upload your CV, set parameters around the type of job you want, salary and location and you can get searching! It can be hard to see the wood for the trees when searching and to also stand out from everyone else when applying for jobs but do not let this phase you.

I can talk all day and night about CV’s but it is best to keep it simple. Start with your personal details, each role from the newest first with Company Name, Title, Dates and Bullet points. People can make a mistake around long winded explanations’ when often a few bullet points will do the job. CV is how you sell yourself, set yourself apart, aiming to “hook” a client or recruitment company. Examples of templates for CV’s are available on our website www.advancingpeople.co.uk/advice-candidates Or if you want to contact me directly I am happy to have a look at your CV for you dominic.quirke@advancingpeople.co.uk

The best advice I can give is to follow the process and apply for jobs online but to follow this up with calls to clients and recruitment companies directly, make sure they have your CV and they know just how interested and relevant you are for the job!

Personality and drive should never be underestimated in this age of computers and impersonal technology.

Over half of the people that work at Advancing People approached us personally, over the phone or in person as well as sending in their CV – it is definitely still possible to stand out from the virtual crowd and secure a new role in 2013…

The traditional route of employers advertising their jobs in papers, receiving replies (often hundreds), is declining by the week but does still exist. The negative is that if you do apply for a role through a local paper you will not be the only one, there will often be lots of competition and the client may find it hard to keep

Have a great Christmas and a productive New Year – Dominic Quirke 58

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Lifestyle

Affinity January 2013 _Layout 1 copy 17/12/2012 12:52 Page 58

A Look Forward A

s fun filled panto Cinderella draws to an end this month, Milton Keynes Theatre goers can look forward to a ‘blooming’ marvellous spring. Milton Keynes has a history of attracting the biggest and best productions touring the UK and 2013 will see the arrival of more fantastic shows and fabulous casts.

his latest re-imagining of ballet classic Sleeping Beauty, Brendan Cole opens set to dazzle audiences again in Licence to Thrill, his brand new show and Northern Ballet return for their annual visit with their new ballet for 2013 The Great Gatsby and their first production especially for children Ugly Duckling. Children can also enjoy magical family fun from the makers of Peppa Pig and join Ben and Holly on an exciting musical adventure in Ben and Holly’s Llittle Kingdom live on stage for the very first time.

Kicking off in January is international hit show Jersey Nights, celebrating the greatest hits of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons. Y’all will love the brand spanking new musical from Dolly Parton based on the hit movie, 9 to 5 The Musical starring Mark Moraghan, Jackie Clune, Natalie Casey and Bonnie Langford and for more feelgood fun join Mark Benton and Lucy Benjamin in the big hit with big heart and big hair, Hairspray returning to MK after selling out in 2010. Make sure you get your skates on to see the electrifying new production of Andrew Lloyd Webbers Rock-On-Roller skating sensation Starlight Express as it explodes onto the stage in spectacular 3D.

WNO return for their perennial visit with a stunning trilogy from their Free Sprits season with Madam Butterfly, Lulu and The Cunning Little Vixen.

A series of one night shows include comedy from West Country Favourite Jethro, the one and only Jimmy Carr, self-styled floppy collared icon Harry Hill and the hilarious Milton Jones. Music lovers can look forward to singer/songwriter Paul Carrack’s return to MK and a new sensational journey with rock n roll legend Joe Brown. A remixed concert version of popular West End musical Boogie Nights showcases back to back 70’s hits from an all-star cast including The Osmond’s, Gareth Gates, Chico, Andy Abraham, Louisa Lytton and Shane Richie Jr.

From the pen of the writer Father Ted comes West End comedy hit, The Ladykillers with Michelle Dotrice, Clive Mantle and Cliff Parisi bringing the much loved Ealing comedy classic to the stage in a thrilling and hilarious production. While Relatively Speaking brings more classic British comedy from Alan Ayckbourn with Felicity Kendal and Kara Tointon prior to the West End. The Royal Shakespeare Company makes their second visit of the year with the uplifting tale of reconciliation and forgiveness The Winter’s Tale while Lenny Henry takes on one of the 20th Century’s most poignant characters in Fences, a universal story which will touch a chord in every heart.

Scare yourself silly with the most terrifying live theatre experience in the world as The Woman in Black, popularised by the 2012 Daniel Radcliffe film transports you into a chilling and ghostly world and grab your hankies for the critically acclaimed Chichester Festival Theatre production of Goodnight Mister Tom starring Olivier award winning actor Oliver Ford Davies.

Take a trip down memory lane with That’ll Be The Day and their new line up of knock out hits from the 50’s.

60’s and 70’s, relive the 60’s with The Solid Silver 60’s Show and we guarantee you a sore throat as you sing along with The Classic Rock Show bringing hits from Meat Loaf, The Eagles, Led Zeppelin and more! For a more classical twist enjoy Milton Keynes Choral from Danesborough Chorus and the Meridian Sinfonia.

The Hairy Bikers make a one night appearance with a show packed with food, laughs and surprises as does Sally Morgan, Britain’s favourite TV psychic, as she returns to entertain and enlighten you.

Tickets for all these shows are on sale now so book early for the best seats in the house:

There’s dance for everyone as friend of the theatre Matthew Bourne celebrates New Adventures 25th birthday with a gothic twist in a world premiere tour of

Milton Keynes Theatre 0844 871 7652 www.atgtickets.com/miltonkeynes

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Affinity January 2013 _Layout 1 copy 17/12/2012 12:53 Page 60

Welcome to the musings of Yummy Mummy. Living in Bedford she is married to ‘The Husband’ and together they have 4 children, Rafferty, 7, Violet, 5, Roman, 4 and baby Clementine.

All my views are my own and are not intended to offend anyone but alas I may frustrate you as I certainly do myself and no doubt those around me at times. I would love to hear from you, your views, questions or indeed just to share your experiences of trying to be a Yummy Mummy. Email me at info@affinitymag.co.uk

Talking About a Resolution!

Well the wrapping paper has been recycled, the baubles and tinsel have been packed away and the sad looking tree has been taken down and the only signs of Christmas remaining are the pine needles turning up in odd places and the extra few pounds and inches that have settled around my middle!

schedule it so I could join the local group so I did it by myself around the local park. Blimey it was hard work, not only shocking my system with doing some actual proper exercise, but with the added exertion of pushing the weight of a baby and a sturdy pushchair! It was good exercise but I soon realised that I do need an exercise buddy.

So along with the other resolutions – be nice to my children, helping them with their homework in a patient manner, not drinking.....as much, always keeping on top of my housework – the biggest one is to get fit (and hopefully drop those few excess pounds).

So although it wasn’t quite yet New Year I teamed up with a good friend to run together a couple of times every week and with a strict pact that if either one of us was to pike – illness was an acceptable excuse, proper illness that is, not ‘can’t be bothered-itis’ – then the culprit has to donate £5 to charity. Obviously I am more than happy to make charitable donations, as indeed we did just this instead of sending Christmas cards this year.

So as a Mummy who is meant to be Yummy I need to work out what I can do to keep fit! Past endeavours have included joining a gym with a crèche, this worked out well as straight after the school run I headed there, put the baby into the crèche and got on with my workout. However as the weeks went by, instead of getting in the gym, I did the crèche drop off and then ordered a coffee and relaxed for the next hour! Sadly the crèche closed down so for the remainder of my contract I think I went twice costing me about £120 per workout!

And so far so good, we have braved the cold weather and hit the streets, well the park one week as we would have looked like a newborn Bambi if we tried to run on the icy pavements! I am very proud of my achievements in actually getting out there in the adverse weather conditions and not collapsing!

I have tried Zumba, Aerobics, Body Combat...the list is endless, however as I am the most uncoordinated person I know, I spent more time trying to work what I should be doing rather than working out – never mind breaking a sweat, I almost broke my ankle!

I still have a fair bit of fitness to regain - well I am a Mummy of four so surely some lenience should be allowed? But try telling my friend that, I am sure she should have been in the army as I hear her cries of ‘keep going’, ‘almost there’ and my favourite ‘you can’t stop now’! And as I am huffing and puffing behind her, dragging my leaden like legs, I think that one day soon my bum will be a trim as hers!

When pregnant with Clementine the only exercise I got (and could manage) was running around after my other three children, however this now isn’t enough, especially with the damage that Christmas has done to me! Recently I tried ‘Power Pramming’, alas I couldn’t

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Yummy Mummy

Affinity January 2013 _Layout 1 copy 17/12/2012 12:53 Page 61

Baby Boy Mittens £10 Monsoon

Character Fingers Gloves £3.99 British Heart Foundation

Boys Fairisle Scarf £12 Monsoon

Let it snow

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Navy Heart Hat £8 Next

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Baby Boy Novelty Hat £10 Monsoon

Rose Intarsia Nepal £12 Monsoon

Navy Reindeer Hat £8.50 Next

Affinity January 2013 _Layout 1 copy 17/12/2012 12:54 Page 62 J

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This gift voucher entitles the bearer to a FREE Consultation and examination plus a verbal report of findings at the Bedford Chiropractic Clinic.

Voucher only valid upon booking within the

first 2 weeks of January 2013

20B, DE PARYS AVENUE, BEDFORD MK40 2TW

(01234) 353937

www.bedford-chiropractor.co.uk

Affinity January 2013 _Layout 1 copy 17/12/2012 12:54 Page 63 J

Fry’s

footie corner

Happy New Year!

First and foremost I would like to wish everybody a Happy New Year, may it be the best you have ever had, although it will be very difficult in our financial climate!

As we approach January, it is sales time when people in ordinary life will strive for the bargains after you have spent out at Christmas, and in football terms, the transfer window opens for 31 days and although the country is skint, there will be vast amounts of money spent up and down the country by teams trying to win the Premier League and those that are trying to stay in the top division.

Likewise, half of the Championship sides will be thinking they have a real chance of getting promotion so the managers will be putting their boards under pressure to provide strength in depth to get into the play-offs.

With the carrot of Premier League football, the reward is a staggering ÂŁ140 million guaranteed even if you come straight back down. However, new rules have been introduced so the teams relegated from the Premier League have four years of parachute payments, leaving the rest of us disgusted because it will no longer be a level playing field.

It will be a busy month for us at the POSH with the manager identifying what players that he would like to strengthen his squad, but he will only be allowed to do that once players have departed. Although the window is open for 31 days, I expect the last week of that window to be the most hectic and where most of the money will be spent.

www.theposh.com Nevertheless, for all supporters, it is a great time of the season, even if you are only halfway in the league, the play-offs give everybody a lot of heart knowing that one good run can take you into the last play-off spot and change your season dramatically.

January is also the big month for the third round of the FA Cup. This still has the magic, it is when the top Premier League clubs come in and we all wait with huge anticipation to get drawn one of the big boys. We have been drawn at home to Norwich City, a tie will be played on the 5th January and in one day, Norwich sold their entire allocation of 5,100, which is fantastic and a credit to their club, who have done so well over the last few years.

Obviously we hope and pray to be one of the giant-killers of the FA Cup this year, starting with a win against the mighty Canaries.

Barry Fry

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Man

of the Month

Karl Hull Age: 25 Occupation: Proprietor of the Millhouse Hotel & Riverside Restaurant Resides: Sharnbrook, Bedfordshire

Best Holiday destination and why?

America. I love how extravagant everything is, and I’ve got some great memories of family holidays there.

Describe yourself in three words?

Ambitious, Spontaneous, Positive

You can’t leave the house without?

Keys, iPhone, Watch

What makes you stand out in a crowd?

My girlfriend says my big blue eyes!

Where do you see yourself in ten years?

I hope to have expanded the business and to still be running a lively, vibrant hotel and restaurant. I don’t know exactly what the future holds, but I am looking forward to it!

Your top three movies?

Rock n Rolla, Lock Stock and 2 Smoking Barrels, Ted

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

I would invite the Michelin star chef, Thomas Kellar, because he really inspired me when I was younger and training to be a chef.

I’d also invite racing driver Ayrton Senna, because I would love to talk to him about his career.

And finally I’d probably invite Rhianna purely because she has a great voice……(and she doesn’t look too bad either!)

What do you do to relax?

(On the rare occasion that I do) I like to eat out and cook meals. I am a fully trained chef myself, and have worked in many restaurants, so now it’s nice to step back and just do it as a hobby.

My family and friends are all in Leicester as well, so I like to visit them as often as I am able to.

Your most extravagant purchase and why?

It would have to be my track day car. It’s something I really didn’t need, but something I keep spending time and money on!

What makes you happy?

I am happy that the business is thriving and happy when I think of what I have achieved.

But I am happiest when I am with Olivia, family and friends. It’s only a simple thing, but sometimes it’s perfect just to be able to chill out and watch television and be normal!

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

A Formula 1 driver! I have been brought up around cars and I love watching the races.

Describe your ideal woman?

My partner Olivia is my ideal woman. I wouldn’t be where I am without her, she has to put up with a lot!

Saturday night you can be found where?

At the Millhouse! Come and join us!

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For Your Eyes Only Nubo Lifting Eye Serum £80

Clarins Men Anti Fatigue Eye Serum £22.95

This Works No Wrinkles Eye Repair £39.50 Loreal Men Expert Vita Lift 5 Eye Roll On £10.99

The Regenerating Eye Cream Chanel £125 Perricone MD Acyl Glutathione Eye Lid Serum £90

Erno Laszlo Luminous Eye Complex £75

Affinity January 2013 _Layout 1 copy 17/12/2012 12:54 Page 66

Toyota GT86 T

oyota has gone back to basics with the GT86 Coupe, and opinion is it’s the best car they’ve made for decades!

The Toyota GT86 has been created to lure young, funloving drivers back to a Toyota brand that has become dominated by big-selling but ultimately bland models.

The firm wanted to get you excited about its products again and to make Toyotas fun to drive. So, three years of concept-car teasing are over and the new, rear-wheel drive Toyota coupe is finally here!

Designed as a two-door, 2+2 seater with a front engine and traditional rear-wheel-drive, the GT86 is intended to be fun to drive and to add some glamour to the Toyota range. It achieves both aims. Classically styled with a long nose and sloping tail, it looks the part too.

Toyota developed the car jointly with another Japanese manufacturer, Subaru, and it is powered by Subaru’s horizontally-opposed ‘boxer’ engine and produced in Japan at a Subaru factory.

New on the market in the summer of 2012, the GT86 is available with a manual gearbox at £24,995, or with an auto box with a sequential manual-shift option and steering column paddle shifts at £26,495.

The GT86 has a two-litre, four-cylinder Subaru boxer engine in which the pistons punch horizontally in opposition, hence the name. It produces a strong power output of 197 bhp peaking at a high 7,000 rpm, and the peak torque is 151 lb ft at 6,400 to 6,600 rpm. With a top speed of 130 mph and capable of a 0-62 mph sprint in 8.2 seconds, it is quite a decent performer.

The CO2 output is 164 g/km, putting the car in VED band G for the annual road tax disc. Its’ combined fuel economy figure nudging 40 mpg suggests that the fuel bill should not be too outrageous for a car with this performance.

The sports seats hold you in position, and they hunker you really low down, as you should be in a sports car.

The steering itself has been perfected and is immediate and precise as well as being beautifully weighted.

So what’s not to like? Nothing, it really is a sports car for all ages!

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Travel

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Is this the most beautiful train journey in the world?

V Your journey starts in Vancouver where you should spend a few nights and have chance to explore before boarding the Rocky Mountaineer for an early morning departure. Breakfast and lunch are served as you pass through Fraser valley and view the peaks of the coastal mountains before entering Fraser canyon. See the thundering waters of Hells Gate before arriving in historic Kamloops, where the train stops for the night.

Comfortable hotel accommodation is provided, you may wish to enjoy a ‘dinner show’ and be entertained by local folklore artists, ’Mounties’ and lumberjacks..The following day you rejoin the train and follow the Thompson river through rolling hills and the snowy peaks of Monashee Mountains via Pyramid Falls and the Glaciers of the Alberta Icefields, before passing Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies. Late afternoon you will arrive in Jasper where you leave the train and say goodbye to your new found friends. Enjoy a night or two here to really experience Jasper National Park and the many highlights including Maligne Lake, Miette Hot Springs and Whistler Mountains.

ancouver is without doubt a beautiful City, surrounded by mountains on one side and the sandy beaches of the Pacific Ocean on the other.

Locals will tell you that you can play golf in the morning watch whales over lunch and ski in the afternoon. This cosmopolitan city is home to excellent restaurants, vibrant nightlife and the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, one of Vancouver’s top tourist attractions.

It is also the Gateway to a UNESCO World Heritage Site The Rocky Mountains and one of the best ways to explore the remarkably beautiful region is by rail on the Rocky Mountaineer.

Offering rail routes between Vancouver, Jasper, Whistler, Banff and Calgary the luxurious train travels through the wild beauty of Canada’s West with overnight Hotel stays in Kamloops or Quesnel depending on your destination. In 2013 the new 3 day coastal passage route will be introduced connecting Seattle with Vancouver and the Rockies, ideal for travellers looking to combine a luxurious rail journey with a cruise to Alaska.

Car hire offers you the freedom to enjoy the surroundings at your own pace; your rental package could include a GyPSy Guide which plays through the stereo, just switch it on and start driving. It’s filled with stories about the natural surroundings and provides tips on places to visit, viewpoints for photo opportunities, where to look for wildlife and directions

Each route is rich in history and natural wonders, where you might see eagles soaring overhead or spy black bears in a canyon. The ‘journey through the clouds’ combined with self drive takes you across British Columbia & Alberta.

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at major junctions. Travel south to Lake Louise via the spectacular Icefields Parkway including the Athabasca Falls, Bow Summit and Crowfoot Glacier.

The classic RedLeaf Service provides reclining seats where you can watch the spectacular scenery through large picture windows, chilled breakfast and lunch is served at your seat.

To really spoil yourself stay at the world renowned instantly recognisable Chateau Lake Louise. This treasured Chateau is in the heart of pristine Banff National Park and within a UNESCO World Heritage site, many rooms face Lake Louise and the Victoria Glacier.

Recently introduced on some routes, and very well reviewed, is the SilverLeaf Service which offers custom designed single level compartments with views through purpose built glass domed carriages. Breakfast and lunch is served at your seat.

After a good night’s sleep drive south to Banff keeping your eyes peeled for deer and elk crossings, the specially constructed wildlife bridges across the highway. Banff is surrounded by spectacular landscape and offers culture, steaming mineral hot springs and countless walking options. Take the Gondola to the summit of Sulphur Mountain for a bird’s eye view of six mountain ranges. We recommend that you prebook your stay as it can get very busy.

If you want to travel in style then GoldLeaf is the one for you. Bi-level glass-domed coaches put you right at the heart of the scenery where you can take in the magnificent views from the upstairs deck and enjoy delicious gourmet meals, prepared by award winning chefs, in the downstairs restaurant.

Direct flights operate to Vancouver and Calgary and this self drive itinerary can be done in either direction. For assistance with planning such a memorable trip call Lance or Sheena at Eagle Travel as they have both had the opportunity to visit this stunning area.

Your onward journey takes you through Kananaskis country and the ranching regions of Alberta before arriving in Calgary, famous for its annual ‘stampede’.

There are three classes onboard the train and whichever one you choose, knowledgeable Rocky Mountaineer Hosts are on hand to make sure you don’t miss anything. They offer local insight with fascinating storytelling, attentive service, commentary and assistance throughout the journey.

Is this the most beautiful train journey in the world? You decide.....

Sue Alexander Eagle travel 01234 348882 11 Goldington Road, Bedford

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Is goldwork really work?

G

oldwork is a form of embroidery that uses “gold” threads – or silver or copper, but let’s not worry too much about that! It’s a real skill to do it properly, but the results can be stunning.

Goldwork is usually “laid embroidery”, that is, the threads (usually fine wire) are fashioned into the desired shape and are laid on the surface of the embroidery backing, which is often velvet for art goldwork. The work is then sewn on to the backing using more gold wire, or sometimes nylon thread.

particularly from China, where gold is valued for its beauty as much as for its cost. Sometime after Marco Polo made his famous journey, the basic skills and materials for goldwork arrived in Europe. A particular style was developed here in Britain (called “Opus Anglicanum” – English work). It is still used today, particularly for decorating church vestments and for some military uniforms, but increasingly goldwork is simply created as artwork and it really catches the eye.

Our goldwork workshops are always heavily subscribed.

Here are a couple of examples of what can be achieved by beginners and professionals!

Goldwork originally came from the Far East, and

Goldwork! !#

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Station Road, Oakley MK43 7RB

Affinity January 2013 _Layout 1 copy 17/12/2012 12:55 Page 71

A quiet night in.......

“She was a daughter, a wife, a mother. She was my friend. But what secrets did Eloise take to her grave?”

After her best friend Eloise dies from breast cancer, Cathy is devastated. But then Cathy begins to have disturbing dreams that imply Eloise's death was not all it seems.

With a history of depression, Cathy is only just recovering from a nervous breakdown and her husband Chris, a psychiatrist, is acutely aware of his wife's mental frailty.

When Cathy tells Chris of her suspicions about Eloise's death, as well as her ability to sense Eloise's spirit, Chris thinks she is losing her grip on reality once again.

Stung by her husband's scepticism, Cathy decides to explore Eloise's mysterious past, putting herself in danger as she finds herself drawn ever deeper into her friend's great - and tragic - secret.

Compulsively readable and incredibly haunting, this is the debut novel from broadcaster, journalist and Book Club champion, Judy Finnigan.

DVD release Latest cinema release Release date 11th January A ground-breaking film adaptation of the global hit stage musical, with an all-star cast singing their parts live. After serving a long prison sentence for a petty crime, Jean Valjean (Hugh Jackman) becomes a noble force for good. But he reckons without Inspector Javert (Russell Crowe), the policeman who pursues him obsessively for breaking his parole.

Set against the tumultuous backdrop of French revolutionary history, Victor Hugo's classic 1862 novel has been adapted for stage and screen many times. But no version is better loved than the stage musical, which continues to break records in its 27th year. In bringing this powerful story of broken dreams and unrequited love to the screen, 'The King's Speech' director Tom Hooper decided to have the performers sing live rather than miming to a recording. The result is a spectacular musical epic of extraordinary immediacy.

“Keep your enemies close” When a US senator turns up dead with his throat slit, retired CIA operative Paul Shepherdson (Richard Gere) is sure it bears the mark of infamous Soviet assassin Cassius. The only problem is that Cassius was thought to have been killed years ago. Forced back into service, Paul is teamed with a hotshot FBI agent Ben Geary (Topher Grace) who believes that Cassius has been active all this time. As the pair get closer to the shocking truth, Shepherdson is forced to re-examine everything he thought he knew, in this edge of your seat espionage thriller.

Release Date: 24th December 73

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Discover your.......

Destiny Sue also offers private readings on a one to one basis, workshops, courses and much more, please visit her website: www.sanctuarybedford.co.uk Tel: 01234 327090

H

Sue has over 30 years experience in the psychic field, is an authority on crystals and psychic energy, and is a world renowned Tarot reader and teacher. Each month readers are welcome to send their questions in for Sue to answer at info@affinitymag.co.uk

to whether I have done the right thing as I think I was misled as to my business partners' experience in the field we have gone into.

Damien Hi Damien, It is of course a little too late for thoughts of just pulling out. It is certain that your business partner is more full of ideas than experience, but they sold you the idea, and they seem good at the selling aspect of things, so take a bit more control in the parts that you feel you are more informed with, and turn your partner more towards sales. You are someone who learns quickly, and deeply, so it would be wise to put efforts into this, and pull in advice from others in the field, and push forward rather than trying to cut your losses, before it has a real chance to grow.

i Sue, I am normally a very happy person who embraces life and everything in it, but the last six weeks or so I haven't been able to shake off feeling down and reflecting on my life, not a day goes by where I don't have a good cry. I don't know what to do and how to deal with feeling like this, do you see a way for this to change? Thank you Jen There is a part of life when more seems behind us than in front of us. This is nothing to do with age, but a lot to do with expectations. You expected yourself to be in a different position with life and relationships, home, work and money, and all of these things are coming at you out of the gloom of depression now that you have had a little setback. When everything which should make you happy doesn’t make you happy, you have to make some changes. These don’t necessarily have to be big changes, they just have to be at first a different way of looking at things. As a positive person you would have overcome a lot of hurdles, by pasting a smile on and willing yourself through. Allow yourself to be angry at things not happening how you wish. Attack the root of the problem that everything else grows from instead of trying to trim back the ever growing branches; then when you have done this, go back to being yourself again, with a clearer view of life, and your winner’s smile.

I

ended a five year relationship over a year ago because he was cheating on me and have been on my own ever since. I am a very sociable person and get on with everyone but all the men I meet seem to pour out all their problems to me and never seem interested in me in a romantic/relationship way. Am I doing something wrong?

Natalie Hi Natalie, You are being too caring and too understanding, so that men will see you are a mother or sister figure instead of a friend. You are putting them first instead of yourself on an equal footing. You are important, believe that you deserve happiness, and it will come.

I

have started a new business venture with a new business partner and I have invested quite a lot of money in this. I am now having second thoughts as

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A Spiritual Adventure

L

than the day dreams of innocent thought and the gentle following of the minds' own path.

ife these days is all full steam ahead, as they used to say in the old movies; no gentle ambling through, it’s all rush to the finishing post, as if we expect to find happiness there.

A meditation should be a Spiritual adventure, once through the doorway to the imagination the mind should lead itself to unravel the riddles and difficulties which have beset it. It should, in effect; answer it own questions.

In the supermarkets we even rush to serve ourselves instead of having a word with a shop keeper or checkout staff about the inanities of our day.

How do you learn to slow down, and find out who you are, and what you really want from life, so that you can focus on it?

I start with a light in the darkness and make my way towards it. Often it is a huge surprise just what causes the light, as I can see by the time I reach it, many times the whole answer to peace is to see what ignites the flame, or fire.

We are like an onion, made of many parts of ourselves, each one secluded within the other, and yet each complete and not complete at the same time.

Imagine soft darkness surrounding you; see yourself comfortable and expectant but looking at a distant light, and try to feel safe and unhurried. Allow your mind to make its way towards it, and try to mentally note any difficulties which slow your path. As you get more used to the process, people and situations will show up in your mind’s eye, and how you solve the problem in your meditation will give you strong clues to how your inner self expects you to handle the situation in life.

Deep in our central core is a spark of light and life which the spiritual minded seek out, and which, when found, is essentially ourselves at our most complete. Over the years our outer-selves have grown skins which other people find comfortable, and which can be far removed from the ‘Us’ of light and essence.

If we allow ourselves to fit into these moulds, we can lose ourselves, and this can make life seem a hollow sham, despite everything that it has to offer and everything that it contains.

If you reach a block which you cannot escape, come out of the meditation, and go back another day or time, and complete the path.

Many people believe that by meditating and being calm, understanding comes, but meditation these days is often led too much by someone else’s words, rather

Don’t rush, to the finish, enjoy life’s journey; as that is where happiness lies.

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

What’s On December 2012

Tues 1st January Karaoke and Rocktails 8pm - Late Esquires, 60a Bromham Road, Bedford Karaoke and Cocktails with a rock theme, in Danny's Bar at Esquires with DJ Nitro 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com Tues 1st – Thurs 31st January Snakes and Ladders Toy Amnesty!

A great way to start the New Year by supporting a worthy cause!

Make room for your children’s new presents by bringing unwanted good quality toys to the Keech Hospice Care donation station at Snakes and Ladders. All toys donated will be sold by Keech Hospice Care in their shops to raise funds and everyone that donates will receive 15% off child entry to Snakes and Ladders if they then go in to play.

Snakes and Ladders, Blackburn Road, Houghton Regis, Dunstable, Beds Weds 2nd January Violet Beauregarde Bulging Biscuits at The Roald Dahl Museum For 6+ years: make a buckwashling iced biscuit that looks just like Violet Beauregarde after she’s tried Willy Wonka’s chewinggum meal. £3.50 per participant in addition to Museum entry.

01494 892192 to book Weds 9th January Bedford Local Group of the Wildlife Trust An illustrated Talk ‘Conservation Grazing’ by Nick Kiddy on the Trust’s flock of rare –breed sheep.

7-30 p m at Priory Park Visitors Centre, Barkers Lane, Bedford MK41 9DJ All welcome. Voluntary contribution(£2 suggested) Further details from 01234 266057 www.wildlifebcn.org Fri 11th January The Drifters - 60th Anniversary Diamond Dynasty Tour Bedford Corn Exchange 2013 marks the 60th Anniversary of The Drifters and to celebrate this incredible achievement we will be producing our most spectacular show to date as we present ‘The Diamond Dynasty Tour’ Tickets: 01234 269519 Sun 13th January Aylesbury Waterside Theatre Wedding Show 100’s of ideas from local exhibitors; 3 Catwalk Shows; Live Entertainment; Live Music; ’How To’ Demonstrations; VIP Area; & much more! Plus BRAND NEW for this season a stunning Vintage Wedding Inspiration Zone. This is one show that you cannot afford to miss!

FREE Entry 11am - 4pm www.icethecake.co.uk

Weds 16th – Sat 19th January Jersey Nights Milton Keynes Theatre Featuring four great singers, perfect harmonies, stylised costumes, a rockin' live band and amazing dancers. If you like the music of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons, you'll love this show. Don't miss Jersey Nights! www.atgtickets/miltonkeynes 0844 871 76532 Weds 23rd January Sandy Horticultural Association 7.30pm Quince Court Sandy A talk will be given on the Swiss Gardens at Old Warden £2 per person to include refreshments www.sandyshow.org Weds 23rd – Sat 26th January The Lady Killers Milton Keynes Theatre Direct from the West End this comedy smash hit from the writer of Father Ted (Graham Linehan), The Ladykillers is the much loved Ealing classic brought to life on stage in a hilarious and thrilling production.

The Ladykillers is a classic black comedy; a sweet little old lady, alone in her house, is pitted against a gang of criminal misfits who will stop at nothing…

Posing as amateur musicians, Professor Marcus and his gang rent rooms in the lopsided house of sweet but strict Mrs Wilberforce. The villains plot to involve her unwittingly in Marcus’ brilliantly conceived heist job. The police are left stumped, but Mrs Wilberforce becomes wise to their ruse and Marcus concludes that there is only one way to keep the old lady quiet. With only her parrot, General Gordon, to help her, Mrs W. is alone with five desperate men. www.atgtickets/miltonkeynes 0844 871 76532 Sat 26th – Sun 27th January Midas Antique Fair 10am – 4pm The Sculpture Gallery, Woburn, Beds With an array of items for sale there is something for everyone.

Stands include:- Silver, Jewellery, Prints, Paintings, Watercolours, Furniture, Porcelain, Clocks, Glass, Textiles, and many more collectable items. John Bly, best known for his appearances since 1978 on the BBC’s Antiques Roadshow, will also be on hand throughout the weekend to offer his expertise and advice for antiques enthusiasts Adults £6.00 * Children (under 16) £1.50 * Under 6 years free of charge. *Price includes entry to Woburn Abbey Gardens, Deer Park and Antiques Centre.

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

Affinity January 2013 _Layout 1 copy 17/12/2012 12:55 Page 75

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Family law - tailored for you.

When you have to deal with family legal issues, you'll appreciate the straight talking and honest approach of our family law team – as well as their total discretion and sensitivity.

It's an attitude that ensures the best protection all round – in every area, from relationship breakdown to pre-marital agreements. It’s also one of the reasons why our team has been ranked in the top tier of The Legal 500 for the last five years.

Previously known as Harvey Ingram Borneos, we provide expert legal advice across Buckinghamshire and Bedfordshire from our offices in Milton Keynes and Newport Pagnell. We can also meet with you at our meeting facility in Bedford.

www.shakespeares.co.uk Sarah Wright - Partner t: 01908 696 002 e: sarah.wright@shakespeares.co.uk Jane Charlton - Partner t: 01908 613 545 e: jane.charlton@shakespeares.co.uk

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Affinity January 2013 Cover _Layout 1 copy 07/12/2012 17:23 Page 2

Make it sparkle, MAKE IT PAVÉ

A Friendly Welcome Awaits “Relaxed Dining at it’s Best” A wonderful variety of cask ales, lagers and wines

TheVictoria Arms January Offers!

2 courses ony £9.95 All day Tuesday to Thursday Over 50’s Wednesdays 2 mains only £9.95 or 2 courses each of £9.95 each

Food Served Tuesday - Saturday 12pm - 2pm Dinner: 6pm - 9pm Sunday Lunch: 12pm - 4pm

10 Mill Street Bedford, MK40 3HD 01234 351458

The Victoria Arms, High St, Wilden

01234 772437

Affinity December 2012 Cover _Layout 1 copy 16/11/2012 07:13 Page 1

DECEMBER 2012

DECEMBER 2012

ISSUE 19

FREE

Star Interview Louie Spence’s Panto Secrets

Hair & Beauty

MILLMAN

Jewellers of Distinction 2 Church Arcade Bedford TEL 01234 354026

AFFINITY MAGAZINE

Look Gorgeous This Festive Season

WIN! WIN! WIN! Family Ticket for Cinderella at MK Theatre

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