July2015

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Available in Silver, Gold or Rose Gold plated silver Medallions

AFFINITY LUXURY LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

Personal messages Photo-engraving Pre-selected designs Natural stones Or ‘Dancers’

JULY 2015 ISSUE 50

FREE www.affinitymag.co.uk

July 2015

UB40 Reunited A NEOM Treat Forget the beach We put Astro in the hot seat

The luxurious new treatment at Yspa

Fabulous adventure holidays for all the family

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

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Saturday July 25th

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Welcome...

Hi Everyone We love summer and all the alfresco eating and drinking that goes with it, we try out the new Echo Falls fruity wines cocktail recipes (page 46) – we know what we’ll be sipping!

How many selfie’s do you take before you’re happy with the finished product and it can be shown to the world?

Well according to research it takes 16 minutes and 6 snaps to achieve perfection! Does this sound like you? Our article on page 12 will reveal if you really are ‘Selfie Obsessed!’

We only have a few tickets left for our Annual Charity Ball on Saturday 17th October, in aid of Cancer Research UK – if you don’t want to be disappointed make sure you get in touch to book yours now.

If you live in Bedford or the surrounding area you will have had to have been in a permanent trance for the last couple of months to not know that Proms in the Park is back (Yay I hear you shout!) – but this time it is not just the one concert on the Saturday night (1st August), it is 3 amazing outdoor concerts (Friday, Saturday and Sunday) all featuring completely different music – Page 62 tells you more. We also have 2 pairs of tickets for all 3 nights to giveaway – The Saturday night proms being VIP tickets with delicious picnic hampers supplied by Brownes Coffee House in Castle Road – Will you be one of our lucky winners?

Until Next Month Happy Sunny Days

Jane x

We have been lucky to review some great places this month including Coombe Abbey (page 68), The WineGlass restaurant at The Barns Hotel (page 38) and YSpa to try out their fabulous new NEOM Treatment (page 20).

Cover Image: Newlook Editor: Jane Fry jane@affinitymag.co.uk 01234 962106 - 07507 602401 Advertising: jane@affinitymag.co.uk 01234 962106 - 07507 602401 Graphic Design and Photography: David Zita dave@affinitymag.co.uk www.affinitymag.co.uk facebook.com/AffinityMag @affinitymagz

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

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CONTENTS

14 Beauty Updates 18 Midlife Madness 24 Smooth and Shine

27 Sun, Sea and Sandals 32 Steven’s says......

40 Foodie News

43 Bubbles of Rosé 49 Inspiring Interiors 52 Industrial Age

57 58 60 70 72

Love Me Tender Fry’s Footie Corner All For Hope HIV Forget the Beach What’s On

What does your kitchen mean to you?

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Ltd GERMAN handleless kitchens NOW installed

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

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Cool as Coral DIOR addict Fluid Stick in Frisson £26.50 Debenhams

Coral is one of this season’s most popular colour trends, suiting any skin tone and complimenting a tan beautifully, making it a must for everyones make up bag.

Chanel Powder Blush in Angelique £31 John Lewis

CHANEL Le Vernis Nail Polish £18 Debenhams John Lewis

Revlon Ultra HD Lipstick in Tulip £7.99 Boots

JESSICA Confident Coral Nail Polish £10.50

MAC Wash & Dry Lipstick in Morange £17 Debenhams

Pot Rouge in Calypso Coral £19 Bobbi Brown

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Selfie Obsessed It takes 16 minutes and 6 snaps to get the perfect selfie!

G

iving a whole new meaning to the phrase 'selfobsessed' - the average young woman spends over FIVE HOURS a week taking selfies, new research has shown.

five hours and 36 minutes every week.

Newby Hands, of www.feelunique.com which commissioned the survey, said: ''The act of taking a selfie has become a huge phenomenon.

A study of 2,000 women found those aged between 16 and 25 to be the worst offenders when it comes to constantly snapping themselves.

Over half said they take selfies 'all the time', with the average snap-rate coming in at three selfies every day.

''But it isn't about us becoming a nation of narcissists, but more a new way to share our ideas and inspirations. ''Scrolling through an Instagram feed full of selfies provides a ready-made mood board of new make-up tips, hair ideas and fitness inspiration.

And with applying make-up, getting the right lighting and perfecting the angle, the time spent on each photo-taking session added up to 48 minutes a day – that’s a baffling

''And selfies aren't just for celebrities and models - we can all take them, share them and play around with new looks.''

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The research showed a significant trend among the younger generation to suffer from 'selfie-esteem' - linking their own body confidence with the amount of ‘likes’ they receive on a selfie via social media.

After taking an average of six shots that are deleted, the 'perfect selfie' would then be uploaded to at least two social media sites.

Amazingly, one in ten 16-25 year olds were found to be storing at least 150 selfies on their computer and smartphones, taken everywhere from their bathrooms or cars to their office desks.

But it wasn't just the younger generation that were selfie obsessed - of the 2,000 women polled, 28 per cent admitted to taking a photo of themselves at least once a week.

In fact, a snap-happy 22 per cent even cited getting 'likes' to boost their ego, as the main reason for taking them.

But getting individual attention was also a factor, as one in three admitted to using their sexiest selfies to catch the eye of a potential love interest.

And it’s a revenge act for one in five, who confessed they'd posted suggestive pics of themselves to make an expartner regret ending their relationship.

On a more concerning level, 27 per cent of the younger women confessed they actually delete selfies within minutes if they haven’t gained enough 'likes' on social media.

Over half of the women agreed that taking an attractive selfie boosts their mood when they feel down over their looks.

But many didn't care for the extensive preparation – and said they only take selfies before a night out on the town, as they’re already ‘photo-ready’.

And four in ten said they take so many selfies they've become more analytical of their faces, finding flaws they hadn't previously seen.

Hands also said, ''Celebrities such as Kim Kardashian and Nicole Scherzinger have described the positive effects of selfies and many young people have followed suit.

The standard routine for a selfie-session, the women said, was to re-do their make-up, fix their hairstyle and wear a flattering outfit before finding a suitable position with good lighting.

''To many they’re seen as empowering, and those who post selfies with a specific 'niche' can often end up with quite a following.''

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Perfect Pedi

From the creators of the world’s number 1 skincare device comes a revolution in foot care, the Clarisonic Pedi.

This home foot care system will transform your tired, achy feet, smoothing and hydrating rough skin ready for you to show off your toes all summer long. It buffs, exfoliates, hydrates and cleanses your feet to spa standards so you can make the most of those flipflops, pool sliders and strappy sandals this summer The Clarisonic Pedi, £175, is available on CURRENTBODY.com; the first E-tailer to exclusively stock the product).

BEAUTY UPDATES

From London to Paris

So…? With Attitude Fragrances have been producing unique and ultra-feminine scents since the 90’s, and have just added their new Couture Collection – inspired by the essence of four fashion capitals; London, New York, Paris and Rio just choose the city that matches your style and your look is complete. Housed in gorgeous bottles and with a price that won’t break the bank, you can pay all four cities a visit without even hopping on a plane.

In Bloom

Decadence in a Glass

Last month saw the launch of Spanish beauty brand CASMARA in the UK. The brand’s Beauty Plan Hydra Range which includes the Hydra Firming Moisturiser (£44.99 from www.casmara.es), helping activate the skin’s natural renewal system by firming and tightening, as well as brightening, and targeting fine lines and wrinkle to combat signs of ageing.

Light in texture and developed with 100% natural marine ingredients and natural actives, the product also contains wakame kelp extract with firming properties and juvenescence to help delay and reverse the cellular ageing process, increasing the skin’s firmness and moisture.

I want them all – Burberry’s new Lip & Cheek Bloom, a collection of six different complexion enhancing colours for lips and cheeks. Inspired by the radiant hues of an English country garden, each Lip & Cheek Bloom can be used alone or blended together to create a customisable blush of colour. Designed to give buildable colour from subtle to intense, the velvet texture is transparent on the skin and gives a soft matte finish. Effortless to use, the mistake-proof formula can be applied with fingertips to leave lips and cheeks looking radiant and feeling instantly moisturised. Each piece is presented in a unique glass pot, with a nickel cap featuring the iconic Burberry check.

Bloom is available to buy from Burberry.com, Burberry Beauty Box, and selected Burberry stores and retailers priced at £24.

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Shot Of….

Following three years of innovation and product development, the JO LOVES Shot Candle is here! Each bespoke Shot Candle is created by selecting a base scent from the menu of fragrance inspirations and then adding a chosen ‘shot’ to bring the personal scent to life.

My favourite is the Mint Mojito – others from the Shot Candle menu are: Charcoaled Lemons, Tahitian Gardenia, Lemongrass, Fig Trees, Mango and Petitgrain. priced at £75 (260g) which includes a one-to-one consultation available exclusively at JO LOVES Shot Candle Studio at 42 Elizabeth Street in London.

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Bronzed Beauty We love bronzing powders they make us look glowing all summer long, here’s our favourites

Clarins Aquatic Treasures Summer Bronzing Compact £30 debenhams

Clinique True Bronze Pressed Powder £21.60 Debenhams Benefit One Hot Minute Bronzer£23.50 debenhams

Rimmel Natural Bronzer £5.99 Boots

MAC Wash & Dry Studio Sculpt Defining Bronzing Powder £25 John Lewis

NARS Contour Blush £30 House of Fraser

Elizabeth Arden Pure Mineral Bronzing Powder £26 Debenhams

DIOR Bronzing Powder £35 John Lewis

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Midlife Madness Post Holiday Blues – Big Time

Y

ou know the feeling, you’ve had a few glorious weeks of sun, sea and sand, not to mention sangria and sex on the beach (the cocktail!!), then it’s all over and you are in the passport queue at Luton airport at midnight, teeth chattering and wondering why you ever thought it was good idea to wear that floaty maxi dress and flip flops when your destination was actually the UK.

as phones are rapidly running out of charge having being used for amusement purposes in flight - we weigh up the options and decide a locksmith is the only answer. We naively thought that would be easy – I found about ten ocal ones that listed emergency and available 24 hours.

Great – but not one picked up the phone! We need to seriously re-define’24 hours’ and ‘emergency’. I assume that police, ambulance and fire brigade emergency services can actually be contacted in the wee small hours but maybe not. What is the point of saying 24 hour service if you have no intention of ever picking up the phone?

The ‘lift’ arrives and you make it back home, desperate for a cup of tea and a few hours in your own bed, before you go to work the next day, wondering how it ever seemed like a reasonable idea to go to work the day after a late flight back. The key goes in the lock and you are ready to fall through the door but……. the key won’t turn. So you check key, check house number (it is very late and there was wine on the plane) but although it is the right key and right house it won’t turn.

Now might be a good time to apologise to any local 24 hour emergency locksmiths who received messages on their voicemails from me, initially polite and pleading but eventually frankly downright abusive. Before you judge me just remember that I was standing outside my house at 3.30am, freezing in a flimsy dress and flip flops, with only 6% battery left on my phone.

Obvious answer - someone inside house has left key inside. Well that’s easy to solve just wake them up and they’ll come down, possibly a bit grumpy but soon you will be in bed. You ring, but their mobile is off, always when you need someone of the generation below the phone is off, when they need you ….different story. No worries you ring the house phone, and the doorbell repeatedly.

So it’s the time for plan B – I need to be at work the next day and can accept there may be little sleep but to be somewhere warm, with a cup of tea and the chance to shower and change before work seems essential. I have clothes, a whole darned case full of them, so we try the most local hotel – but guess what - no blooming rooms.

The last charge of my phone is used to call a taxi and we head to a local garage which the taxi driver informs us is the only place open that he knows of at 4am where we can at least get a cuppa and warm up. Strangely I wasn’t too surprised when they told us the coffee machine was broken and they had no hot food, it had just been that sort of day, or at least night.

By now it is feeling beyond a joke. We scout the house for ways to break in, and despite the smug feeling we get that our house is actually very secure, all double glazed, locked windows etc., we long for the days of single glazing and sash windows that could be opened with ease. We tried the old stones at the window routine but not for long as we discovered that after hitting the window they landed on the roof of our car. (No obviously we didn’t have the keys for the car, THEY WERE INSIDE THE HOUSE!)

At 5.30am we headed by taxi back to our house, and resumed our knocking, doorbell ringing, and door kicking (we were feeling desperate). After managing to wake several neighbours, SHE woke up and said ‘oops…… ..sorry’ !!!!!!!! Still I made it work on time.

After about an hour we lose hope that the slumbering princess will ever wake up, so we try to think creatively 18

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Cuckoo Clock Top £34, sugarhillboutique.com

Kate Spade Raise a Glass Gold Dot Collection £32.95 - £60, Selfridges

Kiss Cosmetics Beyond Limitations Mascara £9, kisscosmetics.co.uk

AFFINITY Codorníu Cuvée Barcelona Brut £12.99 Sainsbury’s & Waitrose

Panache Floris Bra £30, Briefs £15, panache-lingerie.com

Kiss Air Ice Cream Parlour Candles £8.50, kiss-air.com

HOT PICKS

St Tropez Gradual Tan In Shower Lotion £14.50, Boots

This month’s must have gifts and accessories

Charles Worthington Colour Revive Tinted Colour Mousse £9.99, Boots

Fiorelli Hallie Crystal Cluster Drop Earrings £25, Fiorellijewellery.com

Liz’s Gluten Free Granola £4.69, Asda & Sainsburys

Fiorelli Memory Necklace £48, Fiorellijewellery.com

Jimmy Choo Sara M Rafael Mantesso Bag £650, jimmychoo.com

Mad Beauty Moisturising Hand Sanitizer £2.99, madbeauty.com

Filofax Notebooks £12.99, filofax.com

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Treatment of the Month

NEOM Wellbeing Treatment minute guided meditation, which incorporated a reflex foot massage and breathing techniques.

This amazingly gorgeous treatment has to be one of the most relaxing, well-being treatments I have ever experienced – NEOM organics is usually associated with beautiful, scented candles and so I was intrigued what a treatment devised by NEOM would involve.

Throughout the treatment the Neom Intensive Skin Treatment Candle Oil was drizzled over my skin, and massaged into every inch of my body, including key stress relieving points on the head, face, neck and back. The therapist uses tailored techniques that have been masterminded by a team of well-being experts who have drawn together the most effective of six therapies - meditation, shiatsu, cranio, Thai massage, trigger point and reflexology.

The treatment begins with the therapist explaining that your subconscious knows what your body needs, so through a sensory test you will be ensured that you receive the treatment that is unique to you and your specific needs in every way, there are four innovative theraputic choices, Sleep, De-stress, Energise and Happiness

I was lost in a bubble of blissful relaxation with my whole body feeling light and detoxed and my skin felt so silky smooth, preparing me for a deep night’s sleep (I can but wish……..)

Neom products contain the highest possible percentage of the purest essential oils, which not only smell wonderful but also have true therapeutic benefits for the mind and body, helping to transform the way you feel.

Not only does Neom have the most amazing candles you’ll ever smell they also have the most amazing treatment you’ll ever experience.

My senses chose Sleep, which was rather apt as I have been working non-stop with some very late nights and was obviously lacking some serious restful sleep.

NEOM Body Treatment £75 for 50 minutes, £95 for 80 minutes Y Spa 0333 7007 667 www.yspa.co.uk

The room was prepared with a deeply scented Neom “Scent to Sleep Tranquility Fragrance” and then the wonderful experience began with a peaceful 15 20

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Learning When To....

What should we do?

The first step is to acknowledge that some things are difficult or stressful to deal with. It is our vulnerability that makes us human. Life for most people involves some stress, but most of us are fairly resilient most of the time.

What we need to do is to be able to recognise the point of stress and ask ourselves whether they are acute situations or something that may last for longer.

We live in a culture that places a high value on work, strength and courage. Characteristics like determination and the ability to keep going are highly regarded, which in many ways is good. The danger is that sometimes we are so determined to behave in the way we think our society tells us we should, that we actually ignore some of the signals our own body or mind are sending to us.

Think about a small child falling over and hurting themselves. Obviously what you want is for them to pick themselves up and dust themselves off and go back to what they were doing, BUT sometimes they need a few minutes before they can do that. So they sit on a knee, they have a hug, they may leave the ‘crowd’ for a moment and sit with a parent, they need to just take a little time before they are ready to get back into the game.

If the situation is beginning to have a physical or mental impact upon you, then it may be that it is time to ‘stay down’ for just a short time to allow yourself a bit of recovery time.

What will the benefits be?

We looked earlier at some of the often repeated sayings we have and I’m sure we’ll have all heard about the ‘stitch in time’. By acknowledging that you have ‘fallen over’ or are at risk of having a fall, whatever the nature of that may be, then the sensible approach is to just give yourself a proverbial minute, because you are of value and because very often you will be supporting others.

In general, though not always, for small children the ‘catastrophe’ is minor, they fall and get a shock, scrape a knee or bruise themselves, with adults often the ‘fall’ is much harder and more complex.

Adults (and of course sometimes children) have to cope with all sorts of stress, difficult relationships, illness in their family or themselves, problems with money, worries about redundancy, difficulties, bullying or even discrimination at work, to mention just a few.

Often we can acknowledge the need for recovery when the problem is physical but in many ways emotional issues can be even harder to recover from. I am not suggesting that people ‘recover’ from issues like loss but it is important to give yourself time to process your emotions and reach a stage where you can accept the new reality.

Sometimes the right response to a problem is to dust ourselves off and get back up again, but sometimes we need more than a minute if we are really to deal with issues in a way which doesn’t store up problems for ourselves later on.

If the situation is ongoing, then it is probably even more important to take some time, to withdraw for a short time in order to recharge you batteries a bit, before getting back into the ring. This will mean you can keep going and will hopefully prevent you from the negative impact that coping with worry or stress or other difficult circumstances can so often bring.

Recently I overheard someone saying to their traveling companion that a mutual friend had been ‘just marvelous’.

Why? Because in the whole period of her sister’s life threatening illness she hadn’t missed one day of work.

Clearly it depends on severity but keeping going when we are facing major difficulties, very stressful events, loss or other difficulties may well just mean we are storing problems up for the future.

Moving forward Of course there will always come a time when we need to get back up. After recuperation, a recovery, time to adjust, we then need to learn how to move forward. They may be slow steps forward at first but humans are resilient and though life may be different, or perhaps our bodies or scars are not injuries. A scar is a healing.

Why do we feel we must keep going?

Well in short it is what we have been told we must do.

There are many messages we have all heard about being strong and carrying on. Just think about how many sayings we have that give that very message, ‘keep a stiff upper lip’, ‘when the going gets tough, the tough get going’, and ‘the show must go on’ to mention just a few.

For help or advice dealing with any issues raised - contact Attuned Education on 07921193479 or email info@attunededucation.com www.attunededucation.com

“To share your weakness is to make yourself vulnerable; to make yourself vulnerable is to show your strength.”

Criss Jami

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‘Stay Down’

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Smooth and Shine We bring you 7 of the best spray in conditioners to keep your hair looking as smooth as silk no matter how much sun, sea and sand it has to endure this summer.

Redken All Soft Supple Touch £14.70 feelunique.com

L'Oreal Professionnel Solar Sublime Advanced Protection Conditioning Spray £12.90 Boots

Philip Kingsley Daily Damage Defence Protection Spray £8 John Lewis

Aussie Miracle Hair Insurance Conditioner Spray £4.49 Boots

Schwarzkopf Gliss Liquid Silk Conditioner Spray £3.59 Superdrug Dove Hair Nourishing Oil Care Spray £3.59 Boots

TRESemme Split Remedy Leave in Conditioner Spray £5.75 Boots

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FASHION Affinity

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Oh so Orange!

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Lace Playsuit £29 Apricot

Cami Vest Top Miss Selfridge

Tencel Dress £49.50 Oliver Bonas

Bracelet Stack £12 Accessorize Dress £19.99 New Look

Essie Orange it's Obvious Nail Polish £8 Debenhams

Tangerine Quartz & Topaz Earrings £142 Gemporia

Bow Front Sun Dress £35 Miss Selfridge

Orange Palm Print Shorts £22.99 New Look

Daisy Block Heel Sandal £25 Very

Related Amelia Dress £205 Oxygen Boutique

Shorts £5 Primark

Embroidered Dress £17 Accessorize

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Ancient Greek Fotini Sandals £120 Selfridges

Sun, Sea and Sandals

Beaded Sandals £39.99 New Look

Brown Woven Gladiator Sandals £40 River Island

Lime Jewel T Bar Sandals £20 River Island Kurt Geiger Malawi Sandals £95 Debenhams CARVELA Kazoo Sandals £85 John Lewis Nancee Sandals £69 Dune

Lance £59 Dune

Novella Champagne £59.95 Moda in Pelle

Peep Toe Sandals £10 Primark

Gold Trim sandal £39 Monsoon

Jewel Sandal £15 Matalan

Garden Party Chic

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phaseeight

Cascading Floral Bowler Bag £149 Ted Baker

Mansfield Dress £120 The House of Foxy

Floral Tunic Wallis

Flower Dress £19.99 New Look Embelished Floral Dress £49 M&Co

Floral Maxi Dress £55 Wallis

Dress £24.99 New Look

Jolies Floral £89.95 Moda in Pelle

Strapless Dress £40 AX Paris

Rosette Dress £140 Phase Eight

Jessica Wright Blossom Print Dress £60 Lipstick Boutique

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Dickins & Jones Rope Handle Beach Bag £39 House of Fraser

Oliver Desforges Bag £24.95 Amara

To the Beach Beaded Beach Bag £18 Very

Biba Perspex Beach Bag £59 House of Fraser

Mesh Bag £3 Primark

Shona Stripe Beach Bag £55 Phase Eight

Kara Clear Pink Beach Bag £25 South Beach Official

Beach Bag £19.99 New Look Per Una Beach Bag £25 Marks & Spencer Straw Beach Bag £12 Matalan

White Wash

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Skirt £14.99 New Look

Daisy & Eve Cut Out Necklace £12 Evans Leather Bag £25 Accessorize

Ripped Dungarees £29.99 New Look

Luca Dress £149 Damselinadress.co.uk

Polkadot Print Dress £29 Apricot

Lovert Warrior Dress £725 Oxygen Boutique

Oui Cotton Dress £149 Claytons, Bedford White Top £25 Very Melda Sandals £79.95 Moda in Pelle

Brave Soul Shorts £12 Get the Label

Belted Pencil Dress Miss Selfridges

Crochet Trim Top £28 Next

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Wedge Wonders

Corsage Wedges £34.95 Joe Browns

Denim Wedges £35 Next

dune

Annette £25 Linzi

Floral Wedges £22.99 New Look

Kimmie Wedge £69 Dune

Faith Wedges £59 Debenhams

Peyton Wedge £65.95 Moda in Pelle

Jeanne Wedge £25 Linzi

Kendell Wedge £65 Dune

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Festival Frolics!

Hi! I’m Nancy Stevens, and I’m delighted to be joining Affinity as your regular fashion columnist with a column entitled “Stevens Says…”This will cover everything under the fashion umbrella. I’ve been a style consultant since 2003 running Nancy Stevens Style www.nancystevens.co.uk where I offer colour and body shape analysis, wardrobe weeding and personal shopping.

I’m also a writer and radio presenter.

S

ummer has been disappointingly late this year but as its July let’s charge our Pimm’s glasses to having a truly Indian one. The festival season has well and truly arrived and for us fashionistas, our first thought will be “what to wear?”

With our inclement and highly unpredictable weather and the very real possibility of getting muddy, here are some tips to weather the sartorial storm: A basic beauty survival kit to include a bumper size pack of baby wipes, dry shampoo and an all-in-one moisturiser with min SPF 20.

Sunglasses £20 Very

Hat £22 Accessorize

Festival hair is ombre, sun kissed and natural and before leaving your tent, apply a small amount of conditioner and this will keep frizz at bay if, in the very likely event, it rains.

Contrary to popular belief you don’t have to don the obligatory Daisy Dukes and flower-power headband, but create your own style and make sure you are comfortable! I always tell my clients from brides to festival goers, wear what suits with a nod to what’s bangon-trend rather than being a slave to fashion.

Here’s a capsule festival wardrobe which should comprise a denim jacket, shorts, trendy backpack, sunnies (not your best pair), lightweight jacket, cotton scarf, print top, cool cowgirl hat, playsuit (but not a jumpsuit as this will almost certainly cause portaloo probs!), palazzos or cotton harem pants, (jeans and water do not mix well), wellies, flip flops, espadrilles and a pair of sparkly Converse.

Having said that, it seems only apt that this festival season is all about the 70’s which is when festivals really got going. Hippy chic or boho is still the way forward and to be honest, it never really went away. It started with Stevie Nicks in the 70’s and reached its peak with Sienna in the noughties in THAT gypsy skirt and Alexa Chung and her ilk are still rocking the boho look now. We just don’t need to do it head-to-toe, less IS more and a paisley maxi skirt, simple tshirt, a touch of ethnic jewellery and flip flops – we’re good to go.

laredoute

Top tip! Wide-leg palazzo trousers were popular in the 70’s and whilst we are still waiting for flares to make a comeback, palazzos are currently all the rage. Their floaty design means they are ideal for keeping cool in the heat, are flattering with the wide-leg, high waist style.

Purchase a pair of palazzos!

Happy festivals and don’t stop the music!

Everprint Cow Wellies £37 thewellyshop.com

Denim Jacket £43 Miss Selfridge

Nancy x

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GOOGLE’S GREAT - GOOGLE-GATE an over load of information available at our finger tips. Google’s algorithms rely on more than 200 unique signals or “clues” that make it possible to guess what you might really be looking for. These signals include things like the terms on websites, the freshness of content, your region and page rank.

The Specky & Ginge inbox has been crammed with the same question recently and it’s all down to one company – Google.

Did you know 80% Of People Have A Smartphone?

Unless you’ve been hiding in some remote part of Peru, you will have heard that we’ve witnessed the biggest change with Google in 2 years and it could spell disaster for your businesses website.

The internet search engine looks regularly at our websites to make sure we are ticking the boxes to support their algorithms. If we’re not then our website gets pushed way down the page rankings.

We want to make sure you’re fully in the know about what changes Google have made and how it could effect your business.

Google have now introduced a new mobile focused algorithm which takes into account how mobile friendly your website is. Depending on the result it could change the way your site ranks in the search results. It’s been introduced to help mobile users search and find content that is designed and optimised for the device they are using.

Algorithms, coding, complexity analysis it’s as if we are expected to speak a certain web language or code! Do not fear! Here is all you need to know and you don’t even need to zip up an anorak!

When you consider 89% of time spent on media is through mobile apps you can expect the change to cause a big impact, potentially affecting traffic and revenue for a number of sites that heavily rely on search results.

Google put certain rules in place to ensure it’s search engine is as relevant as possible, which is great for us.

Who wants to search for a local dentist and get a list of fancy dress shops? Unless it’s dress down day and you have a dental check up booked!

Is your business website mobile friendly? Pop “mobile friendly” into Google and run the text on your business URL.

As of 21st April 2015 Google made changes to their algorithm – what’s an algorithm I hear you cry?!

Well, algorithms are the computer processes and formulas that take your questions and turn them into answers.

There are millions of webpages packed with

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Contact Carys www.speckyandginge.com

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FOOD & DRINK Affinity

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Dining Delights at the

WineGlass Restaurant Situated in an enviable spot and nestling in three and a half acres of landscaped gardens overlooking the River Ouse, The Barns Hotel and WineGlass Restaurant is just the place to spend a summer’s evening, whether it’s sipping Pimms on the patio whilst catching up with family and friends or enjoying a meal in the bright and airy restaurant, The `Barns is definitely the place.

Sipping a glass of prosecco whilst mulling over the menu was a perfect start to the weekend and once choices were made we just sat back, relaxed and watched the world go by until our starters arrived, and what a treat they were; a salad of roasted butternut squash, beetroot and spring onion was beautifully presented and looked too good to eat, but I did and the toasted pine nut and mustard dressing complimented the salad perfectly.

It was one of those rare summer’s evenings when hubby and I went along to sample the culinary delights of the WineGlass restaurant – it was a Friday and the restaurant was buzzing with diners and the patio was being used to its full advantage, but this didn’t stop any of the staff being warm and friendly with nothing being too much trouble.

In the restaurant we chose a table near the window so we could enjoy the views. The menu had a varied choice whether you just wanted a sharing board, a burger or a three-course meal it was all catered for.

Salad was also what Mr Z chose, except his was warm and included a mixture of bacon, black pudding, wild mushrooms, sautéed new potatoes and a poached egg – his reaction “A pleasure to my taste buds!”

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Main courses followed in the form of poached salmon with crushed new potatoes and wilted spinach – again I couldn’t fault the presentation stack and the flavour of all 3 ingredients blended together effortlessly, the salmon was cooked to perfection and the whole dish was just

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divine.

A sharing board was the other choice, although there was no sharing with this – The Barns Hotel BBQ board (crispy wings, BBQ wings, pulled pork, seasoned wedges, onion rings, and corn on the cob). Sometimes sharing boards are served and it is hard to imagine it will even feed one person let alone two, but there were no worries with this board there being plenty for two, luckily Mr Z has a good appetite.

The combination of foods and tastes was impressive and in all honesty pictures speak a thousand words!

As the restaurant name suggests, wine features prominently with a wine list handpicked by the Vineyard's Director of Wine offering over forty wines and champagnes by the glass, and unlike most hotels prices start from £3.30 for a glass of Chilean Cabernet Sauvignon, making it an ideal place to meet for a drink with friends.

Having declared I was far too full to consider dessert, as is a woman’s prerogative, I changed my mind when I saw the oh so yummy Banana Split, a caramelised banana, with vanilla ice cream, chocolate sauce, whipped cream and berry compote appeared in front of me – I do believe my eyes were far too big for my belly, but I made a pretty good job at trying – it was a pure sugar indulgence, but oh so worth it!

Traditional treacle tart with clotted cream and crème anglaise was Mr Z’s choice and was bursting with proper treacle flavours, the pastry was light and the clotted cream was so creamy!

Dinner was finished with coffee for him and, of course, a pot of tea for me – a perfect end to a perfect evening.

I do believe we have found a hidden gem just on the outskirts of Bedford – the service, food, drink, atmosphere and location all add to its appeal – so next time you fancy a drink with friends, some alfresco dining, a delicious meal with family or a business meeting look no further than The WineGlass Restaurant at The Barns Hotel.

The Barns Hotel WineGlass Restaurant Cardington Road, Bedford 01234 270044 www.barnshotelbedford.co.uk

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Festival Cocktails

Town Hall Hotel’s resident bar, Peg + Patriot have released a series of limitededition festival themed cocktails in the run up to this summer’s most popular international music events, the Bethnal Green bar has created five cocktails inspired by Benicssim, W i l d e r n e s s , Glastonbury, Burning Man and neighboring Lovebox festival.

Each cocktail imaginatively captures the spirit and flavours of the festivals, from the glassware to the ingredients and finishes. The festival menu will run throughout summer, and best of all no wellies required!

Smoked Oat

We couldn’t resist these new Scottish Smoked Oatcakes from Stag, there are two flavours in the range - Smoked Butter Oatcake, which has a distinct, smoky flavour and received 2 Gold Stars at the Great Taste Awards 2014 and the Walnut Oatcake, which has a warm, nutty flavour. The smoked oatcakes are cocktail sized which are ideal for canapés or as part of a cheeseboard.

Each 125g pack has an RRP of £2.45.

FOODIE NEWS

An Indian Journey Last month Michelin-starred Indian restaurant Tamarind of Mayfair launched a series of regional menus to take its guests on a gastronomic adventure through the provinces of India.

June offered diners the taste of Punjab with traditional Punjabi dishes on the menu, followed this month with Rajasthan which will include local specialties such as Laal Mass (a hot rich mutton curry from Rajasthan), then traveling on throughout the summer, special menus from Kashmir and Delhi will be on offer in August and September respectively. The journey will continue for the rest of the year. The set menu is priced at £65 per head, with the option to select wine pairing at an additional cost. www.tamarindrestaurant.com

Taste Tripping

We have found the perfect marinade range to spice up any BBQ this summer. Encona’s new marinade range, will spice up your barbeque and bring flavour to the fire. You have a choice of immersing your food in Jamaican Jerk, Korean BBQ or Moroccan Harissa. Each marinade has been inspired by its origin, combining authentic ingredients to create three mouth-watering marinades that will make you feel like you are sunning in the Caribbean, riding a camel in North Africa or wandering through Gwangjang market. Available from most major supermarkets and priced at £1.99 each you’ll be the marinade King by the end of the summer.

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Smoked Haddock and Asparagus risotto 42

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“

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Asparagus is so versatile and delicious and this recipe is ideal for lunch or dinner, needing only a mixed leaf salad to accompany it

Ingredients Small knob of butter 1 small onion diced 250g risotto rice Large glass of white wine 400ml vegetable stock 100g grated fresh parmesan 2 fillets of smoked haddock 500ml milk Bunch of asparagus

Method Bring a pan of water to the boil, and prepare the asparagus by cutting the stalks off around half way down each piece. Place the asparagus in the water for 2 minutes before removing to a bowl of cold water.

Place the milk and haddock in a pan with a pinch of pepper and bring to the boil.

Once it has come to the boil turn the heat off and leave it to sit in the milk.

To make the risotto fry the onions in the butter with a small amount of oil for 30 seconds then add the rice, cook the rice for 2-3 minutes until it starts to go light golden brown. Turn the heat up and add the white wine and then reduce until the white wine is almost gone, then turn the heat back down and gradually add the stock, a small amount at a time, stirring continuously.

Making sure each time that the rice has absorbed almost all the liquid before adding more, when all the stock has gone use the milk from the haddock and cook until the rice is tender, which is usually around 25-35 minutes from the time you add the rice.

To finish flake the haddock and remove the skin and any bones and add that to the risotto with the parmesan and the asparagus. Serve the risotto with a couple of pieces of asparagus on top and a few shavings of parmesan.

Brought to you by the Chef The Millhouse Hotel and Riverside Restaurant, Sharnbrook, Beds Charles Heidsieck Rose Reserve NV A deliciously fresh wine. Coral-like in appearance, with subtle orange reflections reminiscent of antique roses. Freshly picked strawberry aromas gradually become more intense, alongside hints of pepper, vanilla and sandalwood. A vivacious palate full of red fruit, with some generous floral notes. Following a silky-rich texture of pomegranate or hibiscus syrup, the finish is long and balanced. £45.53, thedrinkshop.com

Wiston Estate Rose 2011 Made up of 57% Pinot Noir, 33% Chardonnay and 10% Pinot Meunier. This wine has been barrel fermented with minimal intervention and expresses this unique year with a taste of fresh strawberries balanced by the crisp profile of the Chardonnay. The perfect reminder of English summer. £35.95, Wistonestate.com

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Duetz Rose Millesime 2008 This is an intensely gourmand champagne made from a blend dominated by Pinot Noir (87%). The nose with its notes of red fruits and berries is expressive and powerful, and the vivacious palate offers texture and a delicious freshness with its aromas of strawberry, raspberry and redcurrant. £51.95, Plus de Bulles UK

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Summer fruit Pavlova

Ingredients

For the Meringue: 6 medium egg whites 300g sugar 1 teaspoon corn flour 1 teaspoon white wine vinegar For the cream: 300ml double cream 1 vanilla pod 50g sugar

A selection of your favourite fruit: Mango, Kiwi, Strawberries, Raspberries, Grapes, Blueberries, Passion fruit

Method

Preheat the oven to 140’c Place the egg whites in a clean stainless steel bowl and whisk continuously whilst gradually adding about two thirds of the sugar, until reaching soft peaks. Add the rest of the sugar and whisk until very thick and stiff. Then gently fold in the corn flour and vinegar. Line a tray with non stick baking paper and measure 4-6 even sized spoonfuls onto the tray and shape them into nests.

Place in the oven and bake for 10 minutes before turning the oven down to 120’c and baking for a further hour. Turn the oven off and leave the meringues in the oven overnight Once the meringues are completely cold, scrape the seeds out of the pod and whisk the cream with the sugar and vanilla until the cream reaches soft peaks.

Generously spoon the cream over the meringue and arrange with the desired fruit.

This sweet is brought to you by the Chef The Millhouse Hotel and Riverside Restaurant, Sharnbrook, Beds 44

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The Millhouse Hotel is the perfect backdrop for your special day with ample space for you and your guests to feel relaxed Large functions marquee and beautiful conservatories Registered for civil ceremonies Tailor made food and drink packages to fit your individual needs 9 ensuite bedrooms Complete exclusivity for the day Picturesque views of the Mill Pond, fountain and countryside beyond “Buy 1 get 1 FREE”

on main courses every Tuesday all day 12pm - 9pm!

Afternoon Teas

Served everyday 2-5pm, Full afternoon tea £9.95 (booking essential)

01234 781678 info@millhouse-riverside.co.uk www.millhouse-riverside.co.uk millhouse_hotel Millhouse Hotel and Riverside Restaurant Mill Road, Sharnbrook, Bedford MK44 1NP

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Feeling Fruity!

Summer days and evenings conjour up thoughts of sitting in the garden with friends drinking wine and cocktails – we have teamed up with Echo Falls and London’s hottest new mixologist, Clo Lataille from Hawksmoor, Spitalfields to give you the best of both worlds by creating some delicious Summer Cocktails using the new Echo Falls Fruit Fusions range.

Summer Serendipity Ingredients:

70ml Echo Falls Fruit Fusion White Peach & Mango 1 slice of lemon 1 slice of lime 1 slice of grapefruit 1 slice of orange 10ml elderflower cordial 5ml pomegranate syrup Crushed ice Pomegranate seeds and a mint sprig to garnish

Method:

Slice the citrus fruits into wedges and muddle in a hi-ball glass, add the Fruit Fusions White Peach & Mango, elderflower cordial and crushed ice then stir. Drizzle with pomegranate syrup. Garnish with pomegranate seeds and a mint sprig.

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Echoes of Pink Ingredients:

50ml Echo Falls Fruit Fusion Summer Berries 25ml raspberry purée 20ml lemon juice 5ml ginger cordial 5ml sugar syrup 20ml egg white Edible pink glitter to garnish

Method:

Mix and shake together all the ingredients in a cocktail shaker. Add ice and shake again for 2 minutes. Strain cocktail into a chilled coupette glass and sprinkle with edible pink glitter to garnish.

Berry Fabulous Falls

Ingredients:

50ml Echo Falls Fruit Fusion Raspberry & Cassis 25ml of cranberry juice 1 tsp of blueberry jam 10ml of lemon juice 5ml cinnamon syrup Splash of tonic water Edible flower to garnish

Method:

Stir all ingredients together in a cocktail shaker and add ice. Shake for 1 minute and strain into a jam jar filled with ice. Add a splash of tonic and garnish with an edible flower to serve.

Echo Falls’ Fruit Fusions range is currently available in Asda, Morrisons, Tesco and selected Convenience stores at RRP £5.49 a bottle.

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INTERIORS Affinity

Marks & Spencer

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Nabali Set £998 DFS

Summer Range Carlo Furnishings Bedford

Pretty Sitting

We bring you a selection of some of our favourite outdoor furniture – you’re garden will never look so good

Paradiso Pear Lounger DFS Fabri Corner Sofa Set with Coffee Table £2699 White Stores

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Garden Set £950 Tesco Direct Table & Chairs £129 BHS

Gloster Grid Modular Collection £3094 Occa Home

Casamore Madrid Sun Lounger £349 Achica

Skyline Fabio Hanging Chair £2353 Occa Home

Cube Set £349 BHS

Milan 5 Seater Set £399.99 Dunelm

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Floral Jack £18 Accessorize

Jonathan Adler Beach Towel £82 Amara

Splashing Around Kenzo No Fish Beach Towel £79 Amara

Pink Bikini Print £20 Debenhams

There’s no excuse not to lie in the sun with these suntastic beach towels

Luxe Towel £40 Oliver Bonas

Pink Logo £19 South Beach Official

Sun Bathe £19.99 Littlewoods

Hackett London No. 1 £65 John Lewis

Pink Flip Flop Beach Towel £20 Ben de Lisi

Hugo Boss £37.50 Amara

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Love Me Tender

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his new musical featuring the music of Elvis Presley.

From the producers of Hairspray, Midnight Tango and West Side Story comes a hilarious feel-good musical featuring Elvis Presley’s greatest hits and starring the award winning and platinum album selling singer Mica Paris. The highoctane cast also includes: Shaun Williamson (Eastenders, Extras), Ben Lewis (Love Never Dies Australia) and Sian Reeves (Emmerdale, Cutting It).

In a small town in 1950s America, a guitar-playing, hip-swivelling stranger rides his motorbike into town. Is he The Devil in Disguise or a Hound Dog in his Blue Suede Shoes? The townsfolk are about to be All Shook Up and could be headed for Heartbreak Hotel, but for Natalie, the love-struck, tomboy mechanic, it really is Now or Never.

Packed with 25 of the best loved songs by The King himself, adds to this funny and moving tale of hope, second chances and the healing qualities of Rock 'n' Roll.

Mon 27th July – Sat 1st August Milton Keynes Theatre 0844 871 7652 www.tickets.com/miltonkeynes

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Fry’s Footie Corner

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Most player contracts come to a conclusion on 30th June and at that point, there will be between 600 and 700 players released from Football League clubs up and down the country. This is a heartbreaking time for those concerned and can take a long while for players to get themselves fixed up, often they have to enter the real world and understand that they may have to go into a different profession.

The introduction of Financial Fair Play has added to those difficulties because in League Two, you can only spend 50% of your income on players’ wages and in League One it is 60%. Clubs are cutting their squads and that is tough for those players that are fighting for their careers.

Many hearts will be broken when players are released because all they

ever dreamed of is to become a fulltime professional footballer. To be suddenly cast aside in the real world is very difficult for players and families to cope with.

I think there is a myth out there that players in the Football League earn fortunes from the game but that just isn’t the case. The pay might be decent in the Championship but certainly in League One and League Two it is just about making ends meet.

Last year was the worst in terms of player’s being out of contract and not getting fixed up and I feel this year will be even worse. I was a manager for 31 years and the hardest part of that was to tell an 18-year-old that I wasn’t going to offer him professional terms. They often break down and are emotional, but it is purely an opinion that I had.

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Many players have proved manager’s wrong down the years like Stan Collymore and David Platt. Being a Director of Football is a different angle, it becomes more difficult because of the financial constraints placed on clubs by the football authorities and you have to base your decision on business sense rather than ability.

It is a tough world. In the Premier League players have fancy cars and big wages, but it doesn’t filter down the leagues and at this time of the year it is going to be extremely hard for those players who are released to get themselves fixed up at other clubs.

Up the Posh!

Barry Fry

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

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

As a herbalist and naturopath I can help you with

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

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

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All for HOPEHIV

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The Most Desirable Classic Car Charity Rally Ever Staged in Britain

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his month, a new charity rally is being staged in Britain that will bring together some of the world’s most collectable classic cars with one goal in mind - to raise money for the charity HOPEHIV, who help children and young adults in sub-Saharan Africa who are courageously battling through the challenges of lives affected

by HIV and AIDS

The Hope Classic Rally 2015 will see participants drive ‘100 miles of Hope’ from Brooklands in Surrey to Blenheim Palace in Oxfordshire. The classic cars taking part will include an ultra-rare Ferrari 250 SWB, a competition-prepared Jaguar XK120 and an Aston Martin DB5 to mention just three.

Taking place on Friday 10th and Saturday 11th July, the rally will be made up of some of the rarest and most desirable classic cars in Britain.

In a weekend that will see motoring passion turn into valuable support for those incredible young people, participants will meet on the Friday where they will enjoy dinner in the unforgettable backdrop of Mercedes Benz World and stay overnight in Brooklands Hotel, before driving a 100 mile route through the picturesque English countryside to the spectacular World Heritage site of Blenheim Palace for lunch on the Saturday.

At the lunch and throughout the rally, participants will mingle with legends from the road car and motorsport worlds, while the whole event will be filmed by Channel 5’s The Classic Car Show, which is hosted by the beautiful petrolhead, Jodie Kidd, and distinguished car expert, Quentin Willson.

In addition, to the cars already mentioned, other rare classics confirmed for the event include: a Ferrari 288 GTO, a

Lamborghini Miura 400S, a Mercedes Benz 300SL Gullwing and a Porsche 911 Carrera 2.7 RS. The rally is open to other classic cars, though, from MG to Mini Cooper!

Quentin Willson, executive producer and presenter of The Classic Car Show, said: “Joining the UK’s passion for classic cars with our national desire to help those less fortunate than us is a noble endeavour and one, that over the years, could potentially raise millions. This is the perfect way to give pleasure to onlookers and participants while raising vital support and awareness for HOPEHIV. I’m proud to help our enthusiasm for old cars being used to benefit such an important cause.”

For more information on the rally and how to take part, visit www.hopeclassicrally.org

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The Proms are Back!

The end of this month promises to be an exciting time in Bedford as LPH Concerts brings back the spectaculor “Proms in the Park’ but this time things are going to be just a little different with not just one concert but three!

Yes that’s right three amazing outdoor concerts all being held in Bedford Park, on Friday 31st July, Saturday 1st and Sunday 2nd August.

End star Daniel Koek. This classical concert ends as is traditional with a spectacular firework and laser show, making this an evening full of pomp and patriotism that the whole family can enjoy.

The third concert features none other than UB40 Reunited - Ali Campbell, Astro and Mickey were drawn together by their love of Jamaican reggae and they took their name from a notorious British unemployment form, the guys played their first local gig in Birmingham in 1979, and spent the rest of the year performing at pubs and clubs around the UK. British radio legend John Peel was so impressed with the group’s first demo tape that he invited them to perform on his Radio One show in 1980. At the same time the band were also asked to support The Pretenders on their triumphant national tour and, as they say, the rest is history.

Friday night brings us PARKLIVE with Happy Mondays headlining – this seminal Manchester band changed musical culture forever and were one of the biggest bands of the Manchester era. In recent years the band have reunited with the full original line up, including front man Shaun Ryder alongside his maraca shaking vibes man Bez as well as backing singer Rowetta.

Special guests for the evening are Belfast pop punk indie icons Ash. The Tim Wheeler fronted stalwarts of indie have been together for over 20 years and were one of the movers and shakers of the Britpop era.

The band’s initial line up lasted for 30 years from their formation in 1978 until front-man Ali Campbell’s departure from the band in 2008. Since that time, two other founding members (Mickey Virtue and Astro) have also left the band, and the trio of Campbell, Virtue and Astro have since formed UB40 Reunited.

Finally, opening the show will be the Stereo MC’s who emerged out of the UK indie dance scene in the late 80s early 90’s.

Saturday’s concert is the well known Proms featuring the renowned London Gala Orchestra, Bedford Choral Society and Guest Soloists – Milton Keynes based soprano Emily Haig will share the stage during the event with Britain’s Got Talent finalist Soprano Charlotte Jaconelli and West

Special guests performing on stage with UB40 are the Brand New Heavies and Radio Riddler.

This is a weekend for music lovers young and old and will have you tapping your feet in more ways than one.

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WIN! WIN! WIN We have two pairs of tickets for each night to giveaway to 6 lucky Affinity readers.

The tickets for the Saturday Night Proms are VIP and include a meet and greet with the artists and a hamper for 2 people supplied by Brownes Coffee House in Castle Road. The hampers include a selection of sandwiches and cakes , kettle chips, Eton mess and your choice of either a bottle of Prosecco or a non alcoholic option, all packaged in a disposable box and come with plates, napkins and glasses.

To be in with a chance of winning please tell us the night you want to go and name one of the artists that are appearing that night – send your answers to affinitymagcomp@gmail.com - Good Luck!

If you’re not lucky enough to win tickets they can be purchased from www.lphconcerts.co.uk

Proms in the Park picnic hampers for 2 can be purchased from Brownes Coffee House for £25.95.

Order on 01234 965265 , or via their Facebook page Brownes Coffee House.

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All About...

Astro (UB40 Reunited) He was part of the legendary Reggae Band UB40 since they formed in 1978 – having left the band in 2013 he recently reformed with former band mates Ali Campbell and Mickey Virtue to bring you UB40 Reunited.

Performing live at Bedford Park on Sunday 2nd August fans old and new are in for a real treat, we caught up with Astro on his birthday and put him in the Affinity Hot Seat!

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What two words best describe you?

Happy and Blessed

Loads of glorious food including fried chicken, coconut water and rice! Any alcohol? Ha of course rum!

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

Bob Marley – Thank you for the music

What makes you stand out in a crowd?

Myself there couldn’t be 2 of me!

Your top three movies?

Goodfellas and………….Can we come back to this? (We never did!)

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

Chocolate digestive, because it’s silky and smooth and tastes great with a cup of tea.

What do you do to relax?

Relaxation is in very short supply for me, but I’m not immune to a little bit of snooker.

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

Laptop it goes everywhere with me, I’d be lost without it

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

I am completely happy with who I am, I wouldn’t change it at all!

Where do you see yourself in ten years?

Exactly where I am now doing what I’m doing!

Describe your ideal woman?

My wife!

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

Idris Elba

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

What would your last meal be?

A big peppered steak

What would you do if you had a time machine?

Go back to the 70’s when reggae music was formed and become a major influence in it, history repeating itself with me at the forefront of it.

Thanks for your time, you can go back to enjoying your birthday now, it’s my birthday on Friday so that must mean you’re a cancer – is it true what they say you are home loving caring and loyal?

Yeah but cross me and ohhhhh you will know about it!

You can’t leave the house without and why?

My house keys I wouldn’t get back in!

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

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Tickets for The Bedford Park Concert are available from www.lphconcerts.co.uk/ub40-bedford

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TRAVEL

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Affinity

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Comely Coombe W

ant to get away from it all for some serious R&R then a visit to Coombe Abbey is just what the doctor ordered. A four star country house hotel set in 500 acres of parkland, overlooking formal gardens and a tranquil lake - Founded in 1150 AD by Cistercian Monks, now lovingly restored to its former glory by its current owners No Ordinary Hotels it is the perfect place for any occasion.

savoury choice including Scotch Duck Egg Malt Farm Local Pork Pie Venison & Red Wine Sausage Roll – both were beautifully presented and delicious.

Once finished we went for a walk around the beautiful gardens and lakes, before returning to our room to recharge our batteries before dinner.

Dinner in the restaurant proved just as delightful as our earlier experience with low lighting and a menu full of culinary delights including *Lichfield New Farm Asparagus which included a scotch quail egg *Savoury Chive Pannacotta *Roasted new season Cornish coastal lamb rack *Slow cooked spring lamb shoulder crushed peas, the presentation was elegant and the combination of flavours in all the dishes was a real treat to the taste buds the chef has real talent. Dessert followed in the form of Madagascan vanilla pannacotta with poached rhubarb, strawberries and ginger sable biscuit a perfect end to a perfect meal. The ambience, service and food were all exceptional.

Arriving at Coombe through the imposing oak front door you instantly feel like you’ve stepped back in time into a gothic castle, with dark corners, deep coloured drapes, flickering lights and stone walls.

Each of the 119 bedchambers at the hotel are individually designed with no two rooms being the same – Our room had a four poster hand carved wooden bed with heavy rich drapes at the large French windows which opened onto a private garden courtyard.

Having explored our room we went along to The Garden Room Restaurant a light and airy conservatory with wicker seats and corner draped alcoves – It was buzzing with people enjoying afternoon tea so we decided to join them – By sheer fluke we were seated in one of the draped alcoves (Made me feel like a queen). A glass of champagne and a half pint of Coombe ale began our afternoon tea – I opted for a traditional afternoon tea, my husband however went for the Knights Gentleman’s Tea an alternative to traditional afternoon tea with a more

A relaxing coffee in the lounge area ended a perfect day – leaving us to retire to our room for a restful nights sleep leaving us waking refreshed and ready to face the world!

Prices start from £89 per room on a B and B basis.

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Forget the Beach

Summer Holiday Ideas for Active Families If you’ve not yet booked your summer family holiday, World Expeditions is offering a great selection of fun filled, family friendly itineraries at iconic destinations across the globe, from Peru and Costa Rica to Vietnam and Namibia. suitable for children as young as eight, these trips are ideal for families looking for something beyond the traditional bucket-and-spade beach break – so if you are keen to explore the world with your young ones, here are World Expeditions' top five ideas for an exciting family adventure this summer‌

Explore Vietnam's vibrant streets and colourful markets - Vietnam is one of those few countries where children of all ages respond so spontaneously! You will spend your days exploring the markets of Ho Ch Minh City and the old quarter in Hanoi, taking a relaxing boat trip to a cooking school, leisurely cycling along country roads to discover the local rural life, sailing amongst the limestone karsts of Halong Bay and relaxing on endless stretches of beaches.

Vietnam Family Explorer (12 days, suitable for children as young as 8) has flexible daily departures throughout the summer.

Watch massive sand dunes change colour - A diverse itinerary in Namibia, specially designed for families: driving distances are kept to a minimum and all places visited are chosen to appeal to adults and children alike. Watch the changing colours of sunrise over Sossusvlei Dunes, take a dolphin cruise at Walvis Bay, witness ancient Bushmen rock art and enjoy game viewing in the famous Etosha National Park.

Namibia Family Adventure (10 days, suitable for children as young as 8) departs on 18 July, 1 August and 15 August.

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Get up close to an active volcano in Costa Rica A country high on the wish list of many active families, as few places in the world can offer such a wide variety of nature. From cloud forests and active volcanoes to tropical rainforests and banana plantations, this crossing takes you across Costa Rica's spectacular natural wilderness through to the Caribbean coast.

Costa Rica Family Adventure (10 days, suitable for children as young as 8) departs on 9 August.

Follow in the footsteps of Incas - This is a varied and action-packed itinerary designed to appeal to the whole family: take a cruise to the mini 'Galapagos' of Peru, fly across the Andes to the Amazonian rainforest and explore the jungle, enjoy day walks and cycling around Cusco and board your raft as you enter the Sacred Valley of the Incas.

Cultural Highlights of Peru (11 days; suitable for children as young as 10) departs on 17 July and 14 August.

Marvel at the great American natural wonders This trip combines the quintessentially American cities of San Francisco and Las Vegas with the raw natural beauty of Yosemite and Zion National Parks, along with Grand Canyon, Death Valley, Bryce Canyon and the world famous Monument Valley.

Family fun activities include staying at an adventure ranch, going rock climbing, searching for giant sequoias, canyoneering and rafting in Colorado River.

Western USA Family Adventure (15 days, suitable for children as young as 10) departs on 18 July, 1 August and 15 August.

World Expeditions' policy ensures there are no local payments. Prices do not include international flights, however these can be arranged on request.

For more information and bookings please visit www.worldexpeditions.co.uk 71

ON!...

What’s

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The Asahi British Beach Polo Championships The Asahi British Beach Polo Championships return to Sandbanks bigger and better than ever.

Arena polo is a high adrenaline game, and when played on a stunning Blue Flag beach brings out the very best from the players, ponies and guests. Unlike grass polo, arena polo is played within a smaller area with 3 rather than 4 players per team. The games are always very physical as the players are in close proximity to each other. Arena polo is a great spectator sport as the fans are so close to the action at all times.

Whether visitors are dining in the waterfront Sandpolo Hospitality marquee, enjoying the exclusive VIP experience, soaking up the atmosphere with General Admission tickets, or just choosing to sit outside the fence on the purpose built beach viewing area, it is a chance for polo, beach volleyball and the Jurassic English coast to show off its attributes.

11th – 12th July: www.sandpolo.com

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The Heat is On The sun is out…but for how long? Experts predict a heatwave is coming so that means head to the beach!

Thankfully, you don’t need to spend hours in a hot car, just head to Frosts Garden Centre in Woburn Sands and their glorious beach!

The fully undercover beach provides shelter or shade, come rain or shine; it’s completely great British weather proof. As well as the beach area with buckets and spades galore, there is a Victorian carousel and storytelling.

The beach is now open at Woburn Sands and Willington. There are three two hour sessions each day, which include beach games, story time, at least two carousel rides and enough time for free play and sandcastle making!

18th July: Tickets must be purchased to enter the beach. For more information and to book, please contact www.frostsgroup.com

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The West End Brings the Swinging Sixties to Life TheatreBreaks.com is rolling back the years and conjuring up the spirit of 1960's London, with a series of ticket and hotel packages for six West End musicals that, between them, feature over 200 songs from the Swinging Sixties.

The 60's is probably one of the best loved musical eras and, with many bands and iconic tunes currently celebrating their 50th anniversary, it is no surprise that there are plenty of opportunities to experience the sights and sounds of Swinging London!

Currently there are five shows in London with 60's roots: Jersey Boys, Let It Be, Sunny Afternoon, Beautiful and The Commitments (although The Commitments is set later, most of the music is still unashamedly 60's).

Theatre and hotel packages start at less than £100 per person including top price ticket and accommodation based on two people sharing a twin or double room and Theatre Breaks offers discounts on optional rail travel too, so it doesn't cost the earth to get to London either!

Further information on Theatre Breaks' Swinging Sixties Packages is at http://www.theatrebreaks.com/blog/london-musicalswith-songs-from-the-60s

Cocktails in the City An al fresco two-day festival of cocktails taking residence in London’s Bedford Square Gardens, twenty of London’s most exciting bars gather beneath the green canopies of London’s largest private Georgian Gardens for a weekend-long celebration of the city’s unique and diverse drinking scene.

For this cocktail weekender, Cocktails In The City has carefully curated an eclectic array of London’s finest bars who will set up shop, pop-up style in an elegant and leafy Georgian square. From exclusive institutions to elusive speakeasies and brand new haunts, each bar will be vying for the limelight, offering unique tastings, interactive demonstrations, games and entertainment.

Expect to sample incredible cocktails from London’s top bars, taste unusual and rare ingredients, lend a hand to the world’s finest barmen in interactive masterclasses and watch talented mixologists put their personal twists on new summer creations.

18th – 19th July; Tickets are £15 and include one cocktail, multiple complimentary experiences and cocktail booklet. www.cocktailsinthecity.co.uk

Natalie Williams Soul Family Natalie Williams’ Soul Family has reached iconic status on the international soul scene. Their hugely popular monthly residency, Soul Family Sundays, at world renowned Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club has sold out every month for 8 years and has now been performed to over 25,000 people, in addition to main stage appearances at international festivals.

The band comprises of some of the finest vocalists and session musicians on the UK and international scene.

Join us at The Sculpture Gallery for a drinks reception during which you will be entertained by a live jazz trio, followed by a three course dinner. Then get ready to dance, as Natalie Williams’ Soul Family wow you with their Motown Revue.

17th July: £65 per person, 7pm Drinks reception , 7.30pm Dinner and performances. To book or for further information, 01525 292172 sales@woburn.co.uk

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A quiet night in...

Hugo & Rose by Bridget Foley

Rose is disappointed with her life, though she has no reason to be - she has a beautiful family and a perfectly nice house in the suburbs. But to Rose, this ordinary life feels overshadowed by her other life - the one she leads every night in her dreams.

After a childhood accident, Rose's dreams take her to a wondrous island fraught with adventure. On this island, she has never been alone: she shares it with Hugo, a brave boy who's grown up with her into a hero of a man.

But when Rose stumbles across Hugo in real life, both her real and dream worlds are changed forever. Here is the man who has shared all of her incredible adventures in impossible places, who grew up with her, even if they aren't what either one imagined. Their chance encounter begins a cascade of questions, lies, and a dangerous obsession that threatens to topple everything she knows. Is she willing to let go of everything she holds dear to understand their extraordinary connection? And will it lead her to discover who she truly wants to be?

Ted 2

Family Guy's Seth MacFarlane returns with this hilarious sequel to 2012's record-breaking comedy, Ted. Three years on from the events of Ted, the potty-mouthed bear has married his girlfriend, Tami-Lynn (Jessica Barth), and together they decide to start a family. He asks his long-time friend John (Mark Wahlberg) to help them out via artificial insemination, but whether Ted can ever have custody of the child is another matter, and so he is forced to go to court to prove that he is human.

The first Ted movie remains one of the highestgrossing comedies of all time and now director/writer Seth MacFarlane (Family Guy, American Dad!) returns with another cameostuffed laugh-fest. Look out for appearances from Morgan Freeman, Amanda Seyfried, Liam Neeson, David Hasselhoff and returnees Giovanni Ribisi and Sam J. Jones, the original Flash Gordon star who finds himself officiating Ted and Tami-Lynn's wedding!

Release Date: 10th July

Second Best Marigold Hotel

While preparing for his imminent marriage to the love of his life, Sunaina (Tina Desai). Sonny (Dev Patel) has his eye on a promising property now that his first venture, The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel for the Elderly and Beautiful, has only a single remaining vacancy – posing a rooming predicament for fresh arrivals Guy (Richard Gere) and Lavinia (Tamsin Greig). Evelyn and Douglas (Judi Dench and Bill Nighy) have now joined the Jaipur workforce, while Norman and Carol (Ronald Pickup and Diana Hardcastle) are negotiating the tricky waters of an exclusive relationship, as Madge (Celia Imrie) juggles two eligible and very wealthy suitors. And newly installed comanager of the hotel, Muriel (Maggie Smith) knows everyone's secrets. As the demands of a traditional Indian wedding threaten to engulf them all, an unexpected way forward presents itself.

Release Date: 29th June

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Saturday July 25th

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Available in Silver, Gold or Rose Gold plated silver Medallions

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June 2015

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JUNE 2015 ISSUE 49

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