affinity magazine october 2012

80
BEAUTY - FOOD - DRINK - HEALTH - FITNESS - STYLE - INTERIORS - MOTORS - WHAT’S ON OCTOBER 2012 FREE Think Pink How to look after your Breasts 50 Shades of Autumn This seasons fashion pieces 13 Ways to Bullet Proof your Relationship Spooky Times Win tickets to Halloween fun at Thurleigh Farm Centre

Upload: jane-fry

Post on 30-Mar-2016

228 views

Category:

Documents


5 download

DESCRIPTION

Affinity is a stylish, glossy complimentary publication for everyone. With its glossy cover it oozes style and sophistication. It's distributed to Bedford and villages within Beds, Bucks and Cambs and Northants. Our articles cover health, fitness, beauty, fashion, food & drink, Barry Fry's footie corner, Sport, Motors, Interiors and Entertainment, our magazine appeals to men and women alike. Affinity enables local businesses to advertise to discerning and influential readers who enjoy their local lifestyle and area

TRANSCRIPT

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

OCTOBER 2012

FREE

AF

FIN

ITY

MA

GA

ZIN

E

O

CT

OB

ER

2

01

2

I

SS

UE

17

Jewellers of Distinction

MILLMAN

TEL 01234 354026

2 Church Arcade Bedford

New links now in store

Think PinkHow to look after

your Breasts

50 Shades of AutumnThis seasons fashion pieces

13 Ways to Bullet Proof

your Relationship

Spooky TimesWin tickets to Halloween fun

at Thurleigh Farm Centre

Affinity October 2012 Cover _Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 19:44 Page 1

A wonderful variety of cask ales, lagers and wines

Christmas menu now available 2 courses £14.50 and 3 courses £19.501st December - 23rd December

The Victoria Arms, High Street, Wilden 01234 772437

“Relaxed Diningat it’s Best”

New Autumn Menu AvailableTuesday - Saturday

12pm - 2pm and Dinner - 6pm until 9pm

Sunday Lunch 12pm - 4pm� � � � �� � �

� � � � � � �� � � � � �

� � � � � � � �

� � �

� � � � � � � �

� � � � � � � � � � � � ��

� � ��� � � � � �

� � � � � ��� �

� � � � �� � � �

�� �

��������������������������

Pie and Mash - 4th October Curry Night - 11th Oct

Chilli, Rice and a Pint - 18th October

6oz Steak, Handcut Chips and Gravy - 25th October

Thursday Night Dates for your Diary Price £6.95

A Friendly Welcome Awaits

Affinity October 2012 Cover _Layout 1 copy 22/09/2012 07:28 Page 2

������������������������������������������������

����������������� ����������� ���� ����������

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:48 Page 1

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:48 Page 2

www.cruiseselect.co.uk

[email protected]

(01234) 326758

67 Goldington Road

Bedford MK40 3NB Visitors welcome by appointment

Find us on

Bedfordshire’s Only Dedicated Cruise Specialist

Service you can trust, prices you’ll love ...

For total peace of mind

Hong Kong to SingaporeSilver Shadow

5 December 201216 Night Cruise Holiday

- $1000 Onboard Spend- Free Economy Air

- TBA

Suites from£1999

Hong Kong to SingaporeSilver Shadow

5 December 201216 Night Cruise Holiday

- $1000 Onboard Spend- Free Economy Air

-

Suites from£1999

Hong Kong to SingaporeSilver Shadow

5 December 201216 Night Cruise Holiday

- $1000 Onboard Spend- Free Economy Air

- TBA

Suites from£1999

Silver Shadow1 January 2013

18 Night Cruise Holiday

- $1000 Onboard Spend- Free Economy Air

- Single Supplement From Only 25%- Free Airport Parking

Suites from£5199

Southampton to Monte CarloSilver Cloud

14 August 201312 Night Cruise Holiday

- $1000 Onboard Spend- Free Economy Air

- Bridge Sailing- Free Airport Parking

Suites from£4499

Cape Town RoundtripSilver Wind

13 January 201313 Night Cruise Holiday

- $1000 Onboard Spend- Free Economy Air

- Bridge Sailing- Free Airport Parking

Suites from£4389

Hong Kong to SingaporeSilver Shadow

5 December 201216 Night Cruise Holiday

- $1000 Onboard Spend- Free Economy Air

- TBA

Suites from£1999

Hong Kong to SingaporeSilver Shadow

5 December 201216 Night Cruise Holiday

- $1000 Onboard Spend- Free Economy Air

- TBA

Suites from£1999

Hong Kong to SingaporeSilver Shadow

5 December 201216 Night Cruise Holiday

- $1000 Onboard Spend- Free Economy Air

- TBA

Suites from£1999

Silver Shadow9 December 2012

12 Night Cruise Holiday

- $1000 Onboard Spend- Free Economy Air

- Free Airport Parking- 1 Night Pre-Cruise Stay

Suites from£3999

Southampton to CopenhagenSilver Whisper16 May 2013

12 Night Cruise Holiday

- $1000 Onboard Spend- Free Economy Air- Gentlemen Hosts

- Free Airport Parking

Suites from£4499

Bridgetown to Fort LauderdaleSilver Spirit

10 January 20137 Night Cruise Holiday

- $500 Onboard Spend- Cooking School Onboard!

- Free Airport Parking- Limited Availability

Suites from£2559

Hong Kong to SingaporeSilver Shadow

5 December 201216 Night Cruise Holiday

- $1000 Onboard Spend- Free Economy Air

- TBA

Suites from£1999

Hong Kong to SingaporeSilver Shadow

5 December 201216 Night Cruise Holiday

- $1000 Onboard Spend- Free Economy Air

- TBA

Suites from£1999

Hong Kong to SingaporeSilver Shadow

5 December 201216 Night Cruise Holiday

- $1000 Onboard Spend- Free Economy Air

- TBA

Suites from£1999

Silver Cloud5 January 2013

19 Night Cruise Holiday

- $1000 Onboard Spend- Free Economy Air

- Single Supplement From Only 25%-Free Airport Parking

Suites from£5199

Barcelona to Fort LauderdaleSilver Spirit

9 November 201316 Night Cruise Holiday

- $1000 Onboard Spend- Free Economy Air- Gentlemen Hosts

- Free Airport Parking

Suites from£3799

Athens to IstanbulSilver Wind

29 March 201312 Night Cruise Only Holiday

- $1000 Onboard Spend- Free Airport Parking

Suites from£3549

Hong Kong to Singapore Sydney to Auckland Valparaiso to Buenos Aires

Renowned for extraordinary worldwide voyages, Silversea is a luxury cruise line that offers unparalleled service and superlative comfort. Discover the art of luxury travel as perfected by Silversea Cruises.

Bedfordshire’s Only Dedicated

Cruise Specialist Bedfordshire’s Only Dedicated

Cruise Specialist Bedfordshire’s Only Dedicated

ree Economy Air- F$1000 Onboard Spend-

12 Night Cruise Holiday9 December 2012

Silver Shadowong to SingaporeHong K

ree Economy Air- F$1000 Onboard Spend-

18 Night Cruise Holidayy 20131 Januar

Silver ShadowSydney to Auckland

12 Night Cruise Holiday

ong to Singapore

ree Economy Air$1000 Onboard Spend

18 Night Cruise Holidayy 2013

Silver ShadowSydney to Auckland

ree Economy Air- F$1000 Onboard Spend-

19 Night Cruise Holiday5 Januar

Silver Cloudalparaiso to Buenos AiresV

ree Economy Air$1000 Onboard Spend

19 Night Cruise Holidayy 20135 Januar

Silver Cloudalparaiso to Buenos Aires

re-Cruise Stay- 1 Night Parkingree Airport P- F

ree Economy Air- F

£3999Suites from

7 Night Cruise Holidayy 201310 Januar

Silver Spiritauderdaleort LBridgetown to F

ree Airport P- F- Single Supplement F

ree Economy Air- F

£5199Suites from

13 Night Cruise Holidayy 201313 Januar

Silver Windown RCape T

7 Night Cruise Holiday

auderdale

arkingree Airport Prom Only 25%- Single Supplement F

ree Economy Air

£5199

13 Night Cruise Holidayy 2013

Silver Windoundtripown R

ree Airport P-F- Single Supplement F

ree Economy Air- F

£5199Suites from

12 Night Cruise Only Holiday29 March 2013

Silver WindAthens to Istanbul

arkingree Airport Prom Only 25%- Single Supplement F

ree Economy Air

£5199

12 Night Cruise Only Holiday29 March 2013

Silver WindAthens to Istanbul

16 May 2013Silver Whisper

Southampton to Copenhagen

vailability - Limited A Av arkingree Airport P- F

- Cooking School Onboard!$500 Onboard Spend-

£2559Suites from

14 August 2013Silver Cloud

Southampton to Monte Carlo

ree Airport P- F- Bridge Sailingree Economy Air- F

$1000 Onboard Spend-

£4389Suites from

Southampton to Copenhagen

- Cooking School Onboard!

14 August 2013Silver Cloud

Southampton to Monte Carlo

arkingree Airport P- Bridge Sailingree Economy Air

$1000 Onboard Spend

£4389

9 November 2013Silver Spirit

Barcelona to F

ree Airport P- F$1000 Onboard Spend-

£3549Suites from

9 November 2013Silver Spirit

auderdaleort LBarcelona to F

arkingree Airport P$1000 Onboard Spend

£3549

arkingree Airport P- F- Gentlemen Hosts

ree Economy Air- F$1000 Onboard Spend-

12 Night Cruise Holiday

£4499Suites from

arkingree Airport P- F- Bridge Sailingree Economy Air- F

$1000 Onboard Spend-

12 Night Cruise Holiday

£4499Suites from

12 Night Cruise Holiday

arking- Bridge Sailingree Economy Air

$1000 Onboard Spend

12 Night Cruise Holiday

£4499ree Airport P- F

- Gentlemen Hostsree Economy Air- F

$1000 Onboard Spend-

16 Night Cruise Holiday

£3799Suites from

arkingree Airport P- Gentlemen Hosts

ree Economy Air$1000 Onboard Spend

16 Night Cruise Holiday

£3799

Visitors welcome by appointment Bedford MK40 3NB

oad 67 Goldington R

(01234) 326758

.uk.cosales@cruiseselectt.

.uk.co.cruiseselectt.wwww.

Visitors welcome by appointment

(01234) 326758

.uk

.uk ’ll love ...prices youvice you can trustSer

’ll love ...peace of mind

or total F, an trust t,

Find us on

peace of mind or total

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:48 Page 3

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:48 Page 4

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:48 Page 5

FRI 7 DEC - SUN 6 JAN 0844 871 7652 (bkg fee)

GROUPS 01908 547609www.atgtickets.com/miltonkeynes (bkg fee)

STARRING

LOUIE SPENCEANNA WILLIAMSONKEV ORKIANDENIECE PEARSON

g /

)g (y

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:48 Page 6

Hi Everyone

Don’t forget it’s not too late to buy tickets for our “Black Tie

and Tiara” Charity Ball on Friday 12th October, in aid of

Leukaemia and Lymphoma Research and in memory of our

dear friend “Pat McGirl” who I know many of you knew. So

join us on what promises to be an unforgettable night. If

you’re a Manchester United (as Pat was) or Manchester

City fan then we have authentic signed shirts up for auction

for both teams, along with some other exclusive lots.

This month I have been lucky enough to try out some

lovely beauty treatments, one of them being a

microdermabrasion and diode light therapy at the

InsideOut Skin Clinic in Clapham. This was like a miracle

and made my skin look rejuvenated and refreshed. I also

paid a visit to the Elemis SpaBus that stopped off at the

new Y Spa at Wyboston Lakes where I tried out a couple of

special Elemis treatments which you can read all about on

page 30. What a truly pampered month I’ve had!

Let’s not forget later this month is Halloween, so go to page

40 to make our fantastic Halloween spider cake with your

kids or visit our Yummy Mummy Page to see what

escapades she gets up to at this spooky time of year.

This month was all about Fine Dining at Murrays

Restaurant (named after the F1 commentator Murray

Walker), at Whittlebury Hall, turn to page 46 to see what

we thought.

So snuggle up, and have fun browsing through this month’s

issue

See you at the Ball!

������������������ �������������� �������������� ��������������������������

������������

����

���������������������������������������������������������������������������������

�������

����������������������������

� �� �

� � �

� � � ����������������������� ���� ������� ���

$!�� �������������������� ������ ������������"#�� ����������������� ������ ������������ ���������������������� ����������� ������������� ���������

Cover Image

Model - Primark

Blouse - £15

Sequin pencil Skirt - £14

Studded Zip Boot - £20

Jane [email protected] 21552307809 499669 Welcome...

Jane x

�����������������

����������������

�������������������� ���������� ��

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

Julia CroftsSales Manager

[email protected] 602401O1234 215523

Vadisoro [email protected] 215523

www.affinitymag.co.uk

@affinitymagz

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:48 Page 7

T&C’s apply, ask in club for more details.

fitnessfirst.co.uk/freestyle

01234 763 930

Have you tried

the fastest way

to get in

shape?

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:49 Page 8

.

CONTENTS16 Healthy Hair

20 Shades of Autumn

26 Think Pink

36 Relationship MOT

44 Conquering Fears

55 Man of the Month

59 Barking Mad

66 Garden Tips

72 Bermuda Triangle

76 What’s On

Open DaysSaturday 13th October, 10am

Friday 23rd November, 10am

BoldImaginative

your daughter’s future. Add three more:

Telephone: 01234 361918

www.bedfordgirlsschool.co.uk

Bedford Girls’ School is part of The Harpur Trust

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:49 Page 9

Per

son

alF

itn

ess

You’ve tried every diet in the book and go to the gym

so often they know your name, your kids names and

even your birthday, yet you STILL can’t lose weight.

Maybe it is time to look at something else that could

be to blame.....Toxins, more commonly known as

poisons. We are subjected to toxins from our earliest

days in our mothers womb, as toxins pass through the

placenta and on to us, then when we are born we are

hit with a barrage of toxins on a daily basis - traffic,

food, water, cosmetic items, even our carpets contain

toxins and this could possibly be the reason why you

can’t shift the weight.

Toxins are stored in our bodies and can affect the pH

balance in our body, they affect our endocrine

(hormone system) and they can even affect the

condition of our skin, hair and nails. But where do

these toxins come from?

A simple answer is everywhere, we are surrounded by

them. That is not to say we can’t get rid of a lot of them.

In our modern day society we want instant things and

we want them to be inexpensive but as a result our

foods are being tampered with to keep them cheap,

our washing detergents have even more chemicals in

them and even our food packaging can be full of toxins.

As toxins enter our body it is the job of the liver to

eliminate them and dispose of them as waste

products, but we have so many toxins entering our

systems nowadays that this amazing organ just cannot

keep up. The more toxins we have in our body the

more acidic our body becomes which prevents the

body from its optimal functionality and makes us

more prone to illness and disease. It is a viscous cycle

but one that can be broken.

Are toxinsmaking you fat?

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:49 Page 10

How to lead a toxic free life:

It is incredibly hard to live a completely toxic free life

because the minute you step outside your front door you

are hit with them but within your home you can reduce

the amount of toxins you are subjected to.

Go organic:

Non-organic fruit

and vegetables

now have so many

chemicals sprayed

on them, to make

them grow faster

or bigger, their

nutritional value

is severely

limited. Non-

organic meat has

n u m e r o u s

hormones and

other chemicals

injected into it to

make it cheaper

for us as a

consumer. Go

organic wherever

possible or better

still - grow you

own!

Smells clean:

Don’t be fooled by

the artificial smell

of ‘clean’ I’m

talking about

floral smelling plug ins and air fresheners. They may

make your house smell beautiful but they contain

chemicals to make that smell. Opt for natural scents such

as flowers (cut from your own garden of course, as some

shop bought flowers will have had chemical treatments)

or find organic oils to burn.

Go natural:

Man-made foods such as white bread, white pasta etc

have all been bleached and are heavily processed. Opt for

organic wholegrain foods, have nuts as snacks rather than

sweets and chocolate that are high in sugar (which can

worsen the toxic symptoms)

Look at the label on your cosmetics:

The main things to look out for are Parabens - these are

used as preservative but can disrupt hormones according

to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Sulphates

- this is what makes soap and shampoo foamy. Sulphates

are responsible for acid rain, they come from petroleum

or vegetable oils that can be contaminated with

pesticides, they can cause skin and eye irritation.

Synthetic fragrances - this is a tricky one.....although they

are known to disrupt the hormone system, by law they

are allowed to be masked on labels as parfum or

fragrance. If you don’t know what is in it, don’t use it.

Go green:

Get as much green in your diet as you can - lots of brocolli,

green tea, spinach, curly kale. Overload on green. Drinking

green tea daily has been shown to enhance excretion of

fat-soluble toxins, it also has cancer fighting properties

and can enhance

and preserve brain

power. Broccoli is

thought of as the

ultimate superfood,

studies show it can

reduce the risk of

colorectal cancer,

prostate cancer,

breast cancer and

lung cancer and can

also help clear your

body of these

unwanted toxins.

As more and more

people become

aware of these

toxins/poisons in

our lives the more

we can do

something about it.

Here are some

fantastic websites

for more

information and

guidelines on how

to lead a toxic-free

life:

www.lesstoxicguide.ca for information on how to live a

cleaner, greener life

www.pgorganics.co.uk for organic perfumes

www.cosmeticdatabase.com for information on the

ingredients of your cosmetic products at home.

And the book ‘Clean, Green and Lean’ by Walter Crinnion

is a fantastic resource for anyone wanting to be toxin-free.

For further information or ways to get rid of toxins and

poisons in your life, please feel free to get in touch at

[email protected] or call me on 07808 739651

Julie Holl - Personal Trainer - Holl Fitness Studio

07808 739651 www.hollfitness.com

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:49 Page 11

w

Autumn seems to have come upon us so quickly,

perhaps because we had such an unusual and wet

summer, it’s come as a bit of a shock to the

system. Dark evenings are drawing in at a pace and the

temperature has dropped dramatically. Ayurveda

believes we should go with the cyclical flow of the

seasons and alter our lifestyle accordingly, in order to

maintain balance and equilibrium within the body.

Autumnal cold, dry, windy weather are qualities which

are also manifested in the body with the Vata dosha. As

Vata is aggravated during this period, the coldness,

dryness and lightness need to be counterbalanced with

warmth, oiliness and grounding to prevent any health

problems. Complaints associated with a Vata imbalance

during the colder months, include increased

restlessness, anxiety, insomnia, constipation, aches and

pains either developing or worsening. If the imbalance

goes unaddressed we also lay ourselves open to colds,

flu and chest infections during the winter and early

spring.

Here are some suggestions for your health and

wellbeing over the coming months:

• Have a regular routine – eating at the same time each

day without missing any meals and going to bed at a

regular time, preferably before 10.30pm. The body

loves routine and functions much better with a

degree of regularity.

• Eat warming, hearty and nourishing food with soups,

lentil dhals and casseroles with root vegetables,

butternut squash, pumpkin and squash prepared

with a little ghee or clarified butter and plenty of

herbs and spices. Don’t worry if you find your

appetite increasing and you’re eating more, this is a

natural reaction and is the body’s way of building its

stores and preparing for the winter. However, do not

eat to the point of discomfort as this plays havoc with

the whole digestive process.

• Some sweet, sour and salty foods are also helpful.

• Drink warming herbal teas and start the day with

fresh ginger and lemon tea. During autumn and

winter it’s really important to avoid iced drinks and

ending a meal with a cold dessert like ice-cream, as

Ayurveda believes warm freshly cooked food is far

easier to digest than cold or processed food.

• Take some extra oil on a daily basis, either in food or

as a supplement, such as flax seed, evening primrose

or sesame seed to prevent dry skin and constipation

• Stewed seasonal fruit, such as plums and apples, with

warming spices including ginger, cinnamon and

cardamom.

• Avoiding cold, raw, dry or bitter foods, such as muesli,

crackers, sandwiches, chickpeas, caffeine and bitter

leaf salads

Ayurvedic massage with sesame oil will counteract the

dryness in the body and aid digestion and sleep.

Indeed, look after your skin with plenty of moisturiser

and a weekly face pack made with mashed avocado or

banana as a base with a little yoghurt and honey mixed

in. This combo is a great moisturiser for dry skin.

Enjoy a little alcohol for its warming quality

Vata is also upset by excessive stress, overwork and

exertion, and lots of travelling. So it’s very important to

add some stillness and quiet downtime as often as you

can. Yoga, meditation, Tai-chi, a walk in the country, or a

creative hobby are all ways to bring some balance.

For further information contact Carolyn Wood-Herbalist and Naturopath MAMH, MANP, ITEC

07944 886502 [email protected] www.vedatherapeutics.co.uk

BalancingVata

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:49 Page 12

STS PRODUCTIONSProudly Presents

WHAMTASTIC!

Performing Exclusively at Harpurs Wine Bar, Tavistock St, Bedford

[email protected] 07939 698653 - 07809 499669

Exclusively 60 tickets per performance

CHRISTMAS TOUR

Tour Dates: Thursday 29th November -

Thursday 6th December - Thursday 13th December

£10 Per Ticket Includes 80’s back to school disco

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:49 Page 13

There is always THAT

promise from the latest

product in haircare.

Care, repair and replenish

hair with a new lotion or

potion. But it’s wise to

remember it’s what you put

in, rather than on, that will

help hair. Keeping a healthy

diet and making sure you are

full of the best nutrients for

you mean the results will

show in your hair, skin and

nails.

You’ll find keratin in your hair,

and nails, so it’s important to

keep levels high in order to

give yourself a healthy shine

from hair roots to fingertips.

Foods rich in protein help

increase keratin levels, stick

to lean meat and low-fat dairy

to make sure your heart stays

in top condition too. If you are

vegetarian look out for chick

peas, kidney beans and soy

milk, to give yourself a protein

boost.

A diet rich in Omega 3 foods

such as fish, will give your

scalp a helping hand. Salmon

in particular is high in Omega

3, along with vitamin B-12

which is known to encourage

hair growth, and strengthen

existing hair, preventing loss.

Ground Flaxseed Oil is also

high in Omega 3 and a great

addition to your diet. If you do

need a boost of vitamin B-12,

you can take supplements;

however ensure you follow

the instructions for use

carefully, too much can be

harmful.

Those carrots that help you

see in the dark, are also a

great source of vitamin A.

Stocking up on vitamin A

means you’ll help the

production of sebum,

meaning your scalp will stay

in tip top form. Mango,

spinach and sweet potato are

also full of vitamin A –

delicious food that helps your

hair look great. Sounds good

to us!

Go nuts! Eating pecans,

cashews and almonds can

increase zinc levels, which can

stop hair shedding. Brazil

nuts also contain the mineral

Selenium which will give you

shiny, healthy hair. As nuts

can be high in fats, it’s

important to balance your

diet with small amounts. Love

them or hate them, oysters

also have good levels of zinc –

and are said to be an

aphrodisiac.

They say milk is good for your

bones, but the calcium found

in dairy products can also

benefit your hair. Make sure

you get enough vitamin D

through foods or the elusive

sun to help absorb the

calcium properly. If you are

vegan go for dark green

vegetables such a kale, these

will give you the calcium you

need, along with rice milk or

almond milk, which are often

fortified with additional

calcium and vitamin D.

With any change in diet, or

inclusion of vitamin rich

foods, seek medical advice if

you suffer any adverse

reactions. It may be worth

consulting your GP for further

advice on health boosting

super foods. More often than

not the first signs that we may

be lacking in essential

vitamins and minerals are a

dull complexion, loss of hair

and brittle nails, so it’s

important to listen to your

body and treat the inside as

well as the outside.

&B

eau

ty

Hea

lth

16

H

e

a

l

t

h

y

H

a

i

r

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:49 Page 14

For more hair tips from Kelly visit our

Hair Clinic at www.affinitymag.co.uk

Kelly Gay www.klghairadvice.com

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:49 Page 15

Off Duty

Year after year Military, Camouflage or Utility

makes an appearance on the hot fashion trends

list, and this Autumn it's no different. So dig out

your army gear and get in line to march straight into the

A/W 2012 Military Academy.

With camouflage and khaki items down to be one of this

autumn’s wardrobe must haves, you really will be spoilt

for choice, with every possible item on the High Street

being available in either an earthy shade of khaki or

printed in varying types of camouflage. Starting from

simple army t-shirts and camouflage pattern leggings to

the staple and key piece for this look - the military style

parka coat.

The Key Piece: The Khaki or Camouflage Parka. These

now come in all shapes and styles, whether you go for

clean and simple or re-worked and modernised, they

are a great way to layer your look and be ready for the

elements. A good parka can be worn with any outfit to

make it look instantly relaxed and effortless.

The Day Look: For a great and easy Military day look a

good tip to remember is simple layering and a tonal

colour palette, obviously green, brown and black being

key colours to the military look. Your beloved jersey

staples will come into good use here as well. Start with a

staple plain dress or skinny jeans, add to that a

camouflage print top and team with a chunky-knitted,

boyfriend-fit cardigan or jumper, throw on a parka and

you're ready to be a fashion recruit. There is also a great

selection of utility bags on the High Street at the

moment. A pair of colour appropriate trainers will finish

the look off nicely and add detail.

The Office Look: To some people this might seem a

shocking idea for the office but with the new A/W

collections hitting the shops there are some great

workwear pieces, it would be a shame not to. Simple

contrast or block shirts with effective detailing makes

this look classy but modern. Wear a military inspired

shirt with a black relaxed tailored suit for an instant

refreshed work look. Or work a loose fitting khaki or

army inspired shift dress for a more laid back but smart

look. Go super simple and elegant with a Ponte (a type

of double knit fabric) tailored dress that can see you

from day to night events. Match in your handbag and go

for studded accessories and badges to complete your

perfect office outfit.

The Night Out: Even though the Military look is

normally associated with laid back leisurewear it can

also be adapted for nightwear and party looks - think

simple tailoring and gold detailing. Colour

block/contrast colour dresses work well for this look.

Alternatively, if its a casual 'couple of drinks' night out

with the girls, dress up a pair of khaki or brown skinny

jeans with a leather peplum top and lace up heeled

boots worn with a military inspired blazer and don't be

afraid to add some studs - nothing too brash though.

Top Tip: Don't forget to layer it up, keep it tonal and

add studded extras.

Black & Khaki Dress

£16.99 Primark

Black Boots

River Island

Studded Belt £3.99

Internacionale

Internacionale

Black military

jacket, £13

Primark

Fur Hood Parker

£39 Internationale

Khaki Jeans £59

Mint Velvet

Carla Williams

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:49 Page 16

FRANKLINS FARM, THORNCOTE GREEN, SANDY, BEDS SG19 1PU07720 640341 [email protected]

www.countrycomplements.co.uk

If you are looking for something di7erent you are sure to 8nda special gift at Country Complements.

Personally Sewn Textiles, Porcelain, Olive wood bowls & utensils, Jewellery, Scarves, Organic toiletries, Children’s

games, Chestnut roasters, Toasting forks and much more....

� ������������

10% OFFCountry Complements Gift Shop

Come along & shop early for Christmas!

Saturday 27th October 2012 9am – 5pmFranklins Farm Open Day - Fun for all the Family

Opening Hours Tues - Thur 9am - 5pmFri 9am - 6pm - Sat 9am - 3pm

JOULES of OLNEY25 High Street South, Olney, Buckinghamshire,

MK46 4AA T: 01234 712 247

DO YOU WANT TO HOST AN INTERNATIONAL STUDENT?

for more information please contact:Lindsay Tribe, Host Family Recruitment Manager

[email protected]

“Bright World is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.”

www.brightworld.co.uk

Bright World Guardianships Ltd is a UK wide guardianship organisation and takes care of international children studying at UK boarding schools in this area. We are looking for families to host our students for some weekends and half terms.

‘’

Bright World Guardianships Ltd takes care of international boarding students in UK independent schools. We are looking for families to host our students for some weekends and half terms.

For more information please contact Lindsay Tribe, Host Family Recruitment Manager

[email protected]

www.brightworld.co.uk

‘‘Bright World is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.”

Accredited by AEGIS, Association of Educational Guardians for International Students

TIONALINTERNAATIONAL

TANTWWANTYOUDO

? ENTSTUD

ANHOSTOT

being lots of fun and a cultural experience.family with a valuable extra income as well as

This is a great job and has provided our ‘

ots of fun and a cultural expfamily with a valuable extra income as well as

This is a great job and has provided our

and half terms. students for families to host our schools. Wstudents in UK independent international boarding Ltd takes care of

orld Guardianships Bright W

perience.family with a valuable extra income as well as

This is a great job and has provided our

and half terms. some weekends for

for families to host our e are looking W We are looking

students in UK independent international boarding Ltd takes care of

orld Guardianships ’

staff and volunteers to share this commitment.” the welfare of children and young people and expects all ‘Bright World is committed to safeguarding and promoting ‘

Lindsay

staff and volunteers to share this commitment.” the welfare of children and young people and expects all ‘Bright World is committed to safeguarding and promoting

[email protected]

ecruitm ribe, Host Family R Recruitment Manager Tr Lindsay For more information please contact

and half terms.

staff and volunteers to share this commitment.” the welfare of children and young people and expects all ‘Bright World is committed to safeguarding and promoting

[email protected]

ecruitment Manager For more information please contact

and half terms.

staff and volunteers to share this commitment.”

Accredited

International Students

Guardians Educational of Association AEGIS, by Accredited

International Students

for Guardians

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:49 Page 17

Bag £15

Tesco

Bracelet £10

Wallis

Green Mix Rib Neck

Jumper £29.50

Marks & Spencer

Lace Dress £65

Next

Green and Yellow

Owl Top £30

YumiJewel Necklace £18

Next

Emerald Green Oui

Dress £139.95

Claytons, Bedford

Ring £6.50

Dorothy Perkins

Emerald City

Gorgeous green isessential for yourautumn wardrobe

Affinity October 2012_Layout 1 copy 22/09/2012 07:14 Page 18

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:50 Page 19

Biba Bag

House of Fraser

Chunky Gold And

Woven Ribbon

Necklace £14.95

whatsabouttown.com

Ethnic Long Stone

Ring £3.99

Internatinale

Henry Holland

Hatter £35

Debenhams

John Rocha

Bowling Bag £69

Debenhams

PiedaTerre

House of Fraser

Orange Coat

£260

John Lewis

Orange AlertHot orange is the perfectelegant autumn colour

Ultra Soft

Skinny £11

Primark

Linea

House of Fraser

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:50 Page 20

Weekend Nappa

Bag £139

johnlewis.com

Berry Dress £115

Claytons Bedford

Berry Gem

Necklace £4

Primark

Leather

Gloves £22

Next

Berry Peplum

Tee £5

Primark

Boucle Jacket £50

Next

Cord Skirt £22

Next

Skinny jodhpurs £28

Next

Snake Print Clutch

Debenhams

Warm berry colourswill flatter anywardrobe this season

Berry Wild

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:51 Page 21

Dark circles under eyes are a common beauty

problem. There are several possible factors

that contribute to this. Some causes are

allergies, inadequate sleep, nasal congestion,

pigmentation irregularities, sun exposure, and poor

nutrition. Other factors are hereditary conditions and

facial features. As well as allergies to eye cosmetics,

excessive consumption of alcohol, and smoking.

As we age the skin around our eyes thins, making it

more exposed to damage. The thinner it gets (our skin

is 0.8mm on the face and 0.4mm around the eyes) the

more our blood vessels show and shadows appear. Our

collagen production also drops as we get older, and so

our skin looses some of its structure and becomes more

translucent.

It’s tricky to establish the exact reason behind under

eye shadows. Dark circles occur when the small

capillaries around the eye are traumatized and broken.

This results in blood leaking into the surrounding

tissues around the eye. The skin around the eye

darkens, causing dark under eye circles.

Stress and gruelling work days are also a contributing

factor - it is a common assumption that dark circles

are just a sign of tiredness, but stress also makes our

skin lacklustre by slowing down circulation, which then

slows cell renewal causing the greyness you see below

the eyes of those with a hectic lifestyle.

Research does suggest though that 60% of the colour

change in under eye circles is from pigmentation.

Previously dark eye circle reducing products have

lacked the ability to penetrate into the deep layers of

the skin and be truly effective with colouration. This

could change with the new serum from Clinique (£28)

which has been 20 years in the making. It contains

‘Siegesbeckia Orientalis’ a herb extract that helps

prevent the breakdown of collagen which leads to

increased transparency in the eye area as well as

‘Mulberry Root’ to fix any pigmentation problems.

Shiseido has also launched a new Anti Dark Circle Eye

Cream (£52) which inhibits the production of melanin

and uses ‘Rice Bran Oil Extract’ to improve

microcirculation.

Not to be outdone YSL’s new Forever Youth Liberator

Eye Serum (£45) takes a different approach, targeting

the causes of dark circles with an innovative watery

textured serum. Clinical tests have shown this lightens

dark circles and fine lines in just three days!

Well I will welcome anything that gives the slightest

glimmer of hope in the battle against dark shadows!

Goodbye Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:51 Page 22

Bags!

Shiseido

Clinique Even

Better Eyes Dark

Circle Corrector

YSL Forever Youth

Liberator Eye Serum

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:51 Page 23

However, it is rare for breast cancer to develop in

healthy breasts, so instead of promoting breast cancer

awareness, maybe it would be more helpful to promote

breast health awareness. The following suggestions

may help.

Diet• Eat a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, nuts and

seeds – These are high in antioxidants. Choose a

variety of brightly coloured or dark green, fresh

produce. Nuts and seeds contain healthy fats and

minerals.

• Avoid processed foods – These are high in

unhealthy fats, refined salt, artificial additives and

sugar.

• Eat fish and eggs – These contain protein and

healthy fats.

• Minimise milk consumption – Milk contains

hormones which may stimulate cancer in those with

abnormal BRCA 1 and 2 genes.

• Drink water (2 litres a day) – Water keeps cells

hydrated.

• Minimise alcohol – Alcohol affects the breakdown of

oestrogen in the liver which may stimulate cancer

cells.

Lifestyle• Get active – Activity helps to eliminate toxins from

the cells and oxygenates the body.

• Avoid smoking – There is a 70% risk of breast

cancer if you started in your teens.

• Wear a correct size of bra – A tight bra traps toxins

in breast tissue.

• Avoid the contraceptive pill and HRT – These

increase risk the longer they are taken.

• Get 8 hours sleep – A lack of sleep weakens the

immune system.

• Avoid being overweight – Fat cells produce extra

oestrogen.

• Breastfeed – Breastfeeding your baby for at least

nine months protects the breasts.

• Avoid oestrogen mimics – Many toiletries,

cosmetics, plastic containers consist of oestrogen-like

chemicals.

• Do regular breast checks – A lump is more likely to

be found early if a woman is familiar with the size,

shape and texture of her breasts

Breast cancer is mostly found in women aged 50 to 70,

which is why mammograms (breast x-rays) are offered

every three years to this age group. However, it is

increasingly being diagnosed in younger women, but

because their breast tissue is more dense,

mammography can be unreliable. Ultrasound, which is

unaffected by tissue density, is often used instead, but

there is also a lesser known screening method available

called thermography. This uses a thermal imaging

camera to detect unusual temperature patterns in the

breast. These may indicate an abnormality, allowing for

much earlier intervention should a malignancy be

diagnosed.

So, if you are looking to reduce your risk of breast

cancer, your best option may be to keep your breasts as

healthy as possible and do regular breast health checks.

Sue Bedford is a Registered Nurse specialising in health

screening and health promotion. During October, Sue is

organising Breast Health Awareness Days.

For details, visit www.pulsescreening.co.uk

Every October, the UK turns pink to promote Breast Cancer Awareness. It isnow the most common female cancer in the UK, with a lifetime risk of one in

eight. Yet, in most cases, breast cancer is preventable and research isshowing that our modern diet and lifestyles may be partly to blame.

How toKeep YourBreastsHealthy

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:51 Page 24

ThinkPink

Swarvoski Ribbon Charm

£38 (£15 Donation)

Swarvoski Shops

Swarvoski Pink Pen £25

(£5 Donation)

Swarvoski Shops

Tresor Paris La Bande

Rose Bracelet £25

(25% Donation)

Millman Jewellers Bedford

Tresor Paris La Bande Rose

Earrings £14-£19

(25% Donation)

Millman Jewellers Bedford

Carmen bra & Knickers £26

(£1 Donation)

bouxavenue.com

Chamilea Breast Cancer

Ribbon Bead £40

(£5 Donation)

chamilia.com

Chamilea Breast cancer

Starter Set £80

(£10 Donation)

Ernest Jones Bedford

Elemis Think Pink

Beauty kit £32.50

John Lewis- Debenhams

GHD Pink Cherry Blossom

Straighteners £129

ghdhair.com

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:51 Page 25

As soon as we hear the words ‘colonic’ most of us

clench our buttocks and scream “I’m not having

anything shoved up my bum!” which is the exact

reaction Jayne Mcdaid (Owner of The Bedford Colonic

Clinic) had when a friend suggested she try it.

Jayne who is a registered nurse suffered from severe

constipation, bloating, general discomfort, and had acne

riddled skin for a long time. When a friend suggested

Colonic Hydrotherapy, her reaction was the same as

most of us

But after this initial thought and with her symptoms

getting worse, and nothing else helping her, she decided

to give it a go and had a course of treatments. She was

amazed at the results, she had more energy, her bloating

had gone, as had her constipation and her acne also

started to clear up!

Jayne decided to re-train as a colon hydrotherapist and

diet & digestive health advisor and now specialises in

practicing evidence based colon hydrotherapy (also

known as colonic irrigation) to nursing standards.

She told me “Colonic Hydrotherapy helps with a lot of

problems, some that you wouldn’t think are associated

with your colon. It is used to treat things such as:

IBS, Constipation, Bloating, Headaches, Food

Intolerance, Sleep Problems as well as being a good kick

start to a Diet or Detox. It is also suitable for men as well

as women”

Jayne makes you feel relaxed and confident as soon as

you talk to her.

If you have never received a colonic treatment before,

Jayne will recommend a course of approximately 3- 6

treatments, Your first colonic treatment will begin with

a consultation to determine your lifestyle habits,

elimination regularity and desired outcomes. Once you

have finished your consultation, if you feel a Colonic

Treatment is not for you, there is no obligation to carry

on with the treatment.

Clients then lie on a couch with their head resting on a

comfortable pillow and are allowed to relax whilst a

small single-use speculum is lubricated and then

carefully inserted into the colon through the rectum.

Filtered water at a carefully regulated temperature is

introduced under gentle pressure through the rectum

using a small tube into the colon. The water cleanses the

colon of faecal matter, parasites and old deposits, which

are piped away with the waste water.

Jayne may use abdominal massages during the

treatment to improve the breakdown and elimination of

waste. The treatment lasts between 30 and 40 minutes.

All equipment used is disposable, used only once and

hygienically prepared just before your treatment to

ensure 100% cleanliness.

Jayne makes you as comfortable and relaxed as possible

and after the treatment you realise it was worth it when

you feel lighter, brighter, more refreshed and energised,

with at least a few pounds of waste having left your

body.

For a confidential chat/consultation contact Jayne:

The Bedford Colonic Clinic

01234 294954 / 07813 070480

www.bedfordcolonicclinic.co.uk

Colonic Hydrotherapy

28

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:51 Page 26

Breast HealthAwareness Days

‘How to Keep Your Breasts Healthy’ DVD

£20 voucher

www.pulsescreening.co.uk/details.html

ssenerawAeHtsaerB

aDhtlay

Veda TherapeuticsHerbal Medicine - Ayuverda -

Naturopathy - Therapeutic

Massage - Ear Acupuncture

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 [email protected]

Herbalist (Dip Herb)

Naturopath (Dip ND)

MAMH, MANP, ITEC

Carolyn wood

Whatever you’re up to this season, our luxury chocolate will help you do it in style – delivered as

gifts by post or handed over in person

hotelchocolat.co.uk

Call Jane on:01234 21552307809 499669

[email protected]

Advertise your Business

Be Part of an

Establlished Brand

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:51 Page 27

All Aboard for the Spa Bus!

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:51 Page 28

Fancy a bus ride with a

difference? Elemis have come up

with a novel way to enjoy one of

their blissful facials without having to

travel too far.

The Elemis SpaBus is a bus converted

into a mini Elemis spa, which travels

around the country and last month

one of its stops was the new Y Spa at

Wyboston Lakes.

The bus tours the country with its

‘Elemis Angels’ offering five unique

and luxurious facial and body spa

therapies for just £10 (£1 of which is

donated to mothers4children charity).

On offer is a Skin Booster Facial, Chill-

Out Shoulder and Scalp Massage,

Exotic Hand and Arm Massage, Sole

Rescue Foot Treatment or Re-Charge

Power Back Massage. Each therapy is

15 minutes of pure bliss to take you on

a relaxation and rejuvenation journey

- all guaranteed to relieve aches and

pains and leave you feeling radiant

with a bounce in your step.

The lower deck offers a little

sanctuary where you can learn about

Elemis products, have a one-to-one

consultation with an Elemis

consultant and win gorgeous Elemis

prizes.

The top deck is unlike the top deck of

any other bus, featuring a Spa-Pod

area with two intelligent massage

chairs, which pinpoint your most

knotted body parts and massage the

tension away.

Y Spa Director, Emma-Jane North told

us “We were delighted to play host to

the Elemis SpaBus even before the Spa

is open, it’s a great lead in to what will

be a truly fabulous Spa experience, we

were really pleased with the number

of people who joined us over the two

days.”

As well as the SpaBus, Y Spa also

played host to OPI, a leader in the nail

care industry, providing manicures to

die for, as well as the new GELcolour

nails which is a must for anyone who

doesn’t have the time to spend on a

manicure.

Affinity were lucky enough to be

invited along to sample the delights of

the SpaBus and OPI, as well as being

spoilt with champagne and cupcakes

- what more could a girl ask for!

Elemis and OPI are two of the luxury

products/treatments that will be on

offer at the new Y Spa when it opens

later this month. The spa promises to

create a lasting impression and always

look after its customers, striving to

exceed their expectations, so that they

keep coming back time and time again,

and if the treatment we always receive

is anything to go by they have got it

just right!

For more information call:

0333 7007 666

www.yspa.co.uk

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:51 Page 29

Elemis Re-Charge Power Back Massage

This treatment was carried out with me still fully

clothed, something I initially found a little

strange, but I needn’t have worried. Kneeling

upright, fully clothed, my body sunk into the

ergonomic massage chair that helps stretch out

and release your spine, I then inhaled my chosen

aroma (Re-energising lime) to lift my mood,

whilst a warm, soothing lavender pillow

cocooned my neck and shoulders - pure

relaxation. With my eyes closed my Elemis

therapist commenced with the unique Elemis

‘Ice-Cool Thermal Massage’ technique,

combined with a customised power back

massage. The final touch of cooling Instant

Refreshing Gel left me feeling totally chilled out.

Pure pampering heaven, I didn’t want to move.

My only criticism - it wasn’t long enough!!!!!

Skin Booster Facial

I just love facials that’s why I only look 25!!!!!! But

this one was even more relaxing than usual as I lay

in an intelligent massage chair that massaged me

the whole time my facial was being carried out.

The chair is designed to pinpoint your most

knotted body parts and massage your tensions

away and it certainly did that. The Skin Booster

Facial focuses on detoxing and hydrating the skin,

and that’s how my skin felt after the cleansing,

toning, warm facial mask, eye cream and

moisturiser were all applied and massaged into my

face and neck, making me look and feel completely

relaxed and rejuvenated.

Elemis is one of the product houses at the new

Y Spa at Wyboston Lakes, so when it opens

later this month you’ll be able to enjoy many

Elemis inspired treatments, amongst all the

other pampering and relaxing packages and

treatments on offer.

Public transport isn’t for me, I haven’t been on a bus since I was a teenager,

but the temptation to step aboard the Elemis SpaBus when it was at the new

Y Spa at Wyboston Lakes was too much.

This is no ordinary double decker bus. It is fitted out to replicate a mini spa

and with 15 minute Elemis treatments available, I didn’t know where to start!

Re-Charge Your Batteries

Affinity October 2012_Layout 1 copy 22/09/2012 07:15 Page 30

IIntroducing the OPI Gel nail service—an instant-

dry, chip-free, flawlessly shiny service which will

be available at the new Y Spa at Wyboston Lakes

opening this October.

I have to admit, this assignment was tough.

Go get a manicure? And then write about it? It seemed a

daunting task at first, but I was up to the challenge. Hold

my calls - I'm off to Y Spa on a very important story.

OPI GelColor is an in-salon professional treatment

featuring full-gel lacquers that apply in minutes, for

manicures and pedicures that last two to three weeks,

OPI have used a 100% gel formula instead of a gel-

polish hybrid, which means it is less stiff and more nail

friendly.

There are 30 colours in the OPI GelColor range, they’re

not new colours, but 30 of the most popular OPI

colours, with new colours being launched regularly.

First, I ran though my typical manicure woes – “I have

paper-thin nails that never grow, I always smudge my

nail polish approximately four seconds after applying it

and I'll probably remove it two days after I get it done

because one chip will drive me crazy!”

Then this is the manicure for you!! I was told

OPI GelColor is applied like regular nail polish, but

inbetween coats, the polish is cured with an LED light to

lock in the colour. My nails were painted with GelColor

Base Coat, then two coats of the GelColor and finished

with GelColor Top Coat, my nails were dry in seconds

(no smudging!). The final product felt like my nails had

grown stronger thanks to the gel.

True to its word, it lasted two weeks without a single

chip. I'd absolutely recommend this manicure and have

already converted several of my friends.

I see it as a great option for people on the go who don't

have time to get their nails done every week, or who are

a bit rough on their nails and need something resilient.

(I'm looking in the mirror as I say this!)

TThhee MMuusstt HHaavvee NNaaii ll ss

33

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:52 Page 31

As a woman I’m always trying new ways to stay and

look younger so when I was asked to go along and

try Skincare InsideOut’s Microdermabrasion and diode

light therapy, a combination of non-surgical mechanical

exfoliation and non-invasive light treatment for deep

skin rejuvenation, it would have been rude to refuse!

Microdermabrasion is a mechanical exfoliation of the

skin, it can be used as a one-off treatment to give your

skin a lift and is an instant ‘pick me up’ for tired,

stressed or dull skin, or it can be successfully used to

treat conditions such as superficial acne scarring, fine

lines and wrinkles, light hyper-pigmentation, enlarged

pores and acne prone skin, and it is suited to all skin

types.

The RejuvaLight Diode Light Therapy is a premier

performing LED (light emitting diode) system, which

delivers safe, painless, non-ablative and non-invasive

treatments for Acne Vulgaris and skin rejuvenation.

The whole procedure, why our skin ages, what we can

do, etc. was explained in detail to me by the lovely

Susan, proprietor of Skincare InsideOut before the

treatment began.

Lying on the couch I was a little worried it may hurt (I

am a baby if there is any hint of pain!), but my worry

was unfounded. My face was cleansed before a sterile

diamond head was used to remove dead skin cells and

promote healthy, new cells for a smoother, more radiant

and flawless complexion. Whilst the diamond tips gently

exfoliated the upper layer of my skin, polishing the

skin’s surface a vacuum control stimulated the

production of collagen and elastin.

The combination of vacuum and pressure ensure

diamond-peel uniformity and allow for personalised

treatments according to skin type. All this was carried

out with Susan chatting away to me explaining what she

was doing and the reasons why. This procedure was

then complimented by the Light Therapy which lasted

30 minutes. The whole treatment was relaxing and non-

invasive and afterwards my skin felt smoother and

softer and my complexion felt refreshed.

Susan then proceeded to put make up on me in the

shape of BPC Mineral Make up, (this is a skin healthy

formulation from natural micronized mineral pigments

with freeze dried vitamins A, E and D). Her philosophy

is there’s no point in having the microdermision done

with your skin feeling rejuvenated and refreshed to then

just clog it up with High Street make up. I am very fussy

with my make up and the products I use, so was very

apprehensive when Susan started applying the mineral

makeup, but credit where credit’s due, it looked and felt

amazing!

I left the clinic with my skin looking and feeling clean,

fresh and rejuvenated.

Susan offers a FREE taster session, so now there’s no

reason to take my word for - go along for yourself to

see what Susan can offer. Whether it’s for a skin

complaint or just for a smoother, more radiant and

flawless complexion the choice is yours. Whatever you

decide you won’t be disappointed.

Contact Susan on:

07711 787767

[email protected]

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:52 Page 32

FAWSLEY HALLThe historical Fawsley Hall in

Northamptonshire has recently opened the

award-winning Grayshott Studio Spa. This

wonderful addition brings an enhanced

level of luxury to the hotel combining

tranquil surroundings and a full range of

contemporary treatments to create the

perfect health and fitness environment.

Grayshott Spa has developed a world-

renowned reputation for the quality of its

treatments and therapies, and now its

expertise is available at Fawsley.

For the latest fitness technology the

Nautilus Gym within the Grayshott Studio

Spa has the latest technology, to help you

achieve a healthier body.

So whether you want to improve your

fitness or just relax and be pampered

Fawsley Hall has it all in one place.

Fawsley Hall Hotel, Fawsley,

Northamptonshire NN11 3BA

01327 892000

www.fawsleyhall.com

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:52 Page 33

36

Life

sty

le

13Yes, Yes, Yes………How often do you say yes – or use other positive

phrases to your partner? Psychologist John Gottman

says he can predict whether a marriage will end in

divorce by listening to just a few conversations and

counting how many positive things are said compared

to negative ones. If you say five nice things for every

negative or downbeat comment you make the

marriage/relationship is likely to stay strong.

Give Your Brain

a WorkoutIt’s said only fools fall in love, but

intelligent people are better at

staying in love. A US study found

those of below average

intelligence are 50% more likely

to divorce/separate than those

with a higher IQ. So make sure

you regularly exercise your brain

– whether it’s a pub quiz, sudoku,

evening classes or even

conversation will boost more than

just brain power.

Make the Move to

Kiss and Make UpAre you always the first to

apologise after an argument? A

recent study found if one of you

bounces back quickly after a row,

moves on and avoids sulking, your

relationship is likely to be stronger

and happier. But don’t worry, you

don’t both have to behave like this to reap the benefit –

so if your partner’s the mature sensible one, a little

sulking can’t hurt!

A Good Work/Life BalanceThere are some careers, such as teaching and

nursing, where divorce rates are very high. Those in the

caring professions often find it hard to switch off at the

end of the day but rather than changing careers, you

need to aim for a balance between communicating with

your partner and burdening them, so that you can both

switch off and spend quality time together.

Spend More

Time in the

Real World Not

the Virtual OneAccording to lawyers, Facebook

has a lot to answer for – one

third of divorce petitions each

year cite ‘Facebook’ and

‘Friends Reunited’ as the

reason. Social network sites

can be addictive, and

sometimes it’s hard to resist a

first love who gets in touch

after 30 years. The best way to

avoid problems is to be honest

with your partner about who

you’re in touch with online -

the trouble can start when

you begin keeping secrets.

Finish Each

Others……

SentencesShared speech patterns show you’re on the same

wavelength. Psychologists found that compatible

couples use similar phrases or synchronise their speech

without even noticing.

Why do some relationships last whilst others struggle and fail? We take alook at what helps couples stick together…….

1

2

3

4

5

6

Ways to BulletProof yourRelationship

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:52 Page 34

Stand Up for Your Individual

RightsA few years ago it was common for women to do exactly

what their husbands said in order to make them happy.

But a recent survey found that women who stand up for

themselves and have their own opinions are more likely

to have stronger relationships and enjoy a better sex

life.

You Laugh at His Silly JokesThat’s a good sign, Laughter lowers our levels of

stress hormones which impacts on how irritable

we feel, stress can turn off your sex drive and make you

put up a barrier. So rent a film that makes you laugh

loudly and cuddle up – you’ll feel refreshed and happier.

You’re GratefulHappiness comes down to three little words

‘Thank you for….’ Couples do little things for each

other all the time , and simply expressing gratitude

produces a little happiness boost that can last for days.

As the years go by couples can stop bothering to do this,

but if you get praise for something you feel happy and it

makes you want to do it again - it creates a kind of

cycle of contentment.

Keep SmilingThose people who are generally happier are

more likely to work through difficulties in their

marriage or relationship, so keep smiling for

relationship success.

Never Having to Say “Can You

Do the Washing Up?”“I’ve done the dishes” or “I’ve taken the bin out” could

be the most romantic words ever said. Apparantly

sharing household chores ranks third (behind fidelity

and a good sex life) on a list of what makes a

relationship work. If one person is doing most of the

housework they end up feeling undervalued and this

starts causing resentment. Don’t let it spill into a row –

explain to your partner how you feel, rather than getting

into a heated discussion over who does what.

Get a Good Nights SleepA bad night’s sleep can ruin your day, but more

than a few of them can also ruin your

relationship. There seems to be a vicious circle, sleep

affects the next day’s functioning and the relationship

functioning in turn affects the next night’s sleep…………

……And Remember the

Bedroom isn’t Just for

Sleeping!I’m not saying you should swing from the chandeliers

seven nights a week, but researchers have confirmed

what we already suspected: regular sex counteracts the

‘happiness deficit’ that sometimes creeps into a

relationship as the years go by and makes couples more

content. Keep it spontaneous there’s no use doing it

every Saturday at 10pm on the dot, it’ll get predictable!

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

37

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:52 Page 35

1. Rachel – “Seek Out a Cruise Specialist”Booking a cruise is a relatively complicated purchase decision, for example, distinguishing between cabin categories, determining which cabins are adjacent to noisy areas of the ship, reserving dining room seating, requesting a special diet, etc. But not just that, Cruise Select can give extra discounts the cruise lines can’t give. Cruise Select is the best source of information on the hottest available deals. As experienced Cruise Specialists we are rewarded by the cruise lines with access to special discounts. Rachel with over 30 years of industry experience has personally cruised with lines targeting all markets including the ultra-luxury market, the upscale mass market, the middle of the road mass market, the bargain/smaller lines and the specialised lines offering notable river cruises and tall ship sailing.

2. Shelley – “Know your cruise line”Like many other industries, cruise lines target their cruise ship experience to certain markets. There are many popular cruise lines for the middle of the road mass market with newer spectacular ships. Ultra-luxury lines offer great individual service and outstanding food offerings rivalling those of Michelin star restaurants. Others have a party ship reputation and target the younger market where the food and ship decor are pretty ordinary. Shelley is Manager at Cruise Select and has personally cruised with many of the lines. She chose a cruise for her honeymoon.

3. Julie – “Use” www.cruiseselect.co.ukDo not be scared about using the website. Initially just use it only as a guide and reference. Pay attention to the text description and pictures to get perspective on a cruise line’s basic philosophy, like what kind of passengers they target. Ship deck cabin category and location is another thing you need to study. Julie has been in the travel industry for over 35 years and brings with her a wealth of invaluable knowledge to greatly enhance the ‘website experience’. Julie’s passion for travel has taken her too many parts of the world and she is the ‘Expedition and “Luxury Cruise’ specialist at Cruise Select.

4. Tracey –“Know your cruise ship”Most importantly, know what you want and what are your priorities? Different cruiser’s have different interests, like budget, destination, port of call, food, entertainment etc.From that you probably limit your interest to a few cruise ships. Use Cruise Select as a resource to know more about the cruise ship you select. Tracey uses her 16 years

help you select unique products.

5. Bella – “When to Cruise”Match your preferred destination to the dates you can travel. Alaska is beautiful but can only be cruised in the summer months. You may want to take a mid winter cruise to the Caribbean or even South America. If you want your cruise travel to be in the Caribbean and you want to spend two weeks on your cruise holiday, choose a line that alternates between the Eastern and Western Caribbean. Bella will tailor-make your entire holiday so whatever you want from your trip her extensive knowledge and experience will help plan your ideal itinerary. Cruise Select offers great deals to match your budget.

The Perfect Cruise ExperienceRachel Wright and her specialist team at Cruise Select based in Bedford have come up with 10 tips to choosing the perfect cruise holiday.

With feedback from over 400 cruise holiday makers and noting the personal experience of each team member, the most important thing Rachel discovered is that the information, advice and knowledge provided by Cruise Select during the booking process is appreciated the most.

To help in planning the perfect cruise holiday each Cruise Select team member offers a tip:

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:52 Page 36

[email protected]

(01234) 326758

67 Goldington Road Bedford MK40 3NB

Visitors welcome by appointment

Find us onService you can trust, prices you’ll love ...

For total peace of mind

months prior to few Reserving space a ou generally get the best deals by booking well in advance of your sailing date.Y

“Book Early” –Sharon6.

departure provides “early-bird” savings and also months prior to ou generally get the best deals by booking well in advance of your sailing date.

departure provides “early-bird” savings and also ou generally get the best deals by booking well in advance of your sailing date.

fers and all-inclusive deals’‘of‘offers and all-inclusive deals’and uses her own cruise holiday

at sea that are not covered by the cruise fare. Sarah is a new mum to spend money while fer “all-inclusive ofoffer “all-inclusive lines cruise While

“Beware of added charges” – Sarah7.

orldwide Specialist and Luxury ailor Made WTa Sharon has cruised with the major lines and experienced

a week or two of sailing within category of your choice. locks in the cabin

Cruise Select exclusive to fers and all-inclusive deals’with mid-luxury experience and uses her own cruise holiday

at sea that are not covered by the cruise fare. Sarah is a new mum that there are many opportunities be aware pricing”, fer “all-inclusive

“Beware of added charges”

Cruise Select Specialistorldwide Specialist and Luxury European river cruising. She is Sharon has cruised with the major lines and experienced

cabins s unsold date on a ship’a week or two of sailing There will always be that category of your choice.

the cruise lines to compile with mid-luxury at sea that are not covered by the cruise fare. Sarah is a new mum

that there are many opportunities

.Cruise Select SpecialistEuropean river cruising. She is

you may not but be aware cabins last minute deal found There will always be that

you are taking the family but you want to gamble steer away from Disney and choose one of course, geared toward children but they do not have casinos. So if is, instance, Disney

lines have a variety of activities and facilities Cruise “Choose suitable onboard activities and facilities” –Amelia9.

of in-house brochures and advertisements.the cruise experience. Kerry supports the feel of

“First time cruiser” –Kerry8.

fers and all-inclusive deals’‘of‘offers and all-inclusive deals’

you are taking the family but you want to gamble steer away from Disney and choose one of course, geared toward children but they do not have casinos. So if

that you can use on the ship. For lines have a variety of activities and facilities “Choose suitable onboard activities and facilities”

of in-house brochures and advertisements.Cruise Select the cruise experience. Kerry supports the

“First time cruiser”

.Cruise Select exclusive to fers and all-inclusive deals’

you are taking the family but you want to gamble steer away from Disney and choose one of course, geared toward children but they do not have casinos. So if

that you can use on the ship. For “Choose suitable onboard activities and facilities”

team with the production Cruise Select

go shopping in the diving or reach once you activities many

ferent cultures and destinatiodifdifferent cultures and destinatiotwo or three days. cruise stays usually for

fer land and shore excursions. All the cruise ships ofAll the cruise ships offer land and shore excursions. not necessardo holidays Cruise

“Choose Land and Shore Excursions” – Ben10.

. Cruise Select Specialista be on a ship with children sail on one that to

Almost all of them have children’of the other cruise lines. you are taking the family but you want to gamble steer away from Disney and choose one

call. Ben provides web support to of ports the of markets can me you Like a port of call. reach

taking a cruise holidayns when ferent cultures and destinatioLand excursions are a great way to two or three days.

The cruise lines offer land and shore excursions. to spend have that you mean ily not necessar

“Choose Land and Shore Excursions”

Amelia joined the team on a youth experience programme.does not cater to be on a ship with children sail on one that

s prograAlmost all of them have children’you are taking the family but you want to gamble steer away from Disney and choose one

the call. Ben provides web support to scuba caving, kayaking, go can

from ou can choose Y. taking a cruise holidayexplore Land excursions are a great way to

fer pre and post The cruise lines ofThe cruise lines offer pre and post time onboard. your all to spend

Amelia joined the team on a youth experience programme.talk with pays to children. It does not cater to

you don’t want mmes. If s prograyou are taking the family but you want to gamble steer away from Disney and choose one

the perfect cruise experience. on what each cruise line has to ofst opinion give you an hone

personally sailed on many difyou will speak to Cruise Select At

team.Cruise Select

For total peace of mind

the perfect cruise experience. on what each cruise line has to of

cruise ships, river boats and tall ships so they ferent personally sailed on many difpersonally sailed on many different Cruise able a knowledgeyou will speak to

For total peace of mind

fer and which would give you on what each cruise line has to ofon what each cruise line has to offer and which would give you can cruise ships, river boats and tall ships so they

Each has . SpecialistCruise

isitors welcome by appointment VVisitors welcome by appointment Bedford MK40 3NB 67 Goldington Road

(01234) 326758

[email protected]

isitors welcome by appointment

(01234) 326758

[email protected] prices you’ll love ...

Service you can trust,

prices you’ll love ...Service you can trust,

Find us on

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:52 Page 37

SpookySpider CakeGoulishly Good!

Ingredients:

2tsp baking powder4 tsp vanilla extract8 large free range eggs

To decorate:

Simply halve the mixture to make cupcakes or a single large cake.How you do it:

8” and two 6” cake tins with grease proof

in a large bowl, then slowly add in the

the bowl and gently fold it in with a

cobwebs and lots of icing spiders!

instead?

i cake you.co.uk

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:52 Page 38

SpookySpider CakeGoulishly Good!

Ingredients:

2tsp baking powder4 tsp vanilla extract8 large free range eggs

To decorate:

Simply halve the mixture to make cupcakes or a single large cake.How you do it:

8” and two 6” cake tins with grease proof

in a large bowl, then slowly add in the

the bowl and gently fold it in with a

cobwebs and lots of icing spiders!

instead?

i cake you.co.uk

Halloween

TreatsHalloween Cupcake

Stands Pack of 8 £11

johnlewis.com

Halloween Best Witch

& Wings Costume £10

Sainsburys

Headband Hairy

Spider! £2.99

BHF shopsHeadband Orange

Witches Hat £2.99

BHF shops

Spider Trick or

Treat Bag £6

johnlewis.com

johnlewis.com

Halloween House £15

johnlewis.com

Spider Web

Cookie £2.50

johnlewis.com

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:52 Page 39

Bromham Mill celebrates

Apple Day

at Bromham Mill & GallerySunday 21st October 2012

11.00am - 4.30pmJoin us for our annual celebration of the brilliant British apple!

Taste, eat, drink, try and buy your local apples

(if accompanied by an adult)

Just as you get the children settled into the new school year

after the long summer holidays, you soon start to realise

that the nights are quickly drawing in and there is a definite

chill in the air (I know, I know, there was probably a chill

in the air all summer along with the non-stop rain!). This

can only mean one thing – nope not quite Christmas yet

(but that isn’t too far off – 98 days as I write this!!) but it is

‘Trick or Treat’ time!

I know that is a tradition from our neighbours across the

pond, however if it involves fun and another excuse to

party then I am only too happy to embrace the American

way! I can understand why some people detest the day and

I fondly think back to how my dad used to deal with the

unwanted visitors to his door. From about 3.30pm he

would decamp to the room at the back of the house

ensuring all visible lights were off, but only after

unplugging the doorbell, so he could have a peaceful and

uninterrupted evening. To me this is fair enough as, if you

don’t want to partake then you should be left alone – but

you can’t always guarantee you won’t get an egg thrown at

your door! As our children are still little, we tend to let

them stay at home to hand out the treats at the front door

rather than possibly face a real life miserable monster. So

we string up the pumpkin lights and hang the skeleton on

the front door and await the cries of ‘trick or treat’.

However some things do make me very cross and these

include groups of teenagers, (obviously there is nothing

wrong with teenagers - well most of the time), who have

made little or no effort and those who arrive late so could

wake the youngsters and possibly the adults too! Once we

are done we take the skeleton and the lights down and we

also put a ‘do not disturb’ sign on the door, however in the

past this has been ignored, so then all they get is a ‘Trick’’

from us!

Of course as well as celebrating at home we like to make

the most of what is out and about, and one place we will be

visiting is Thurleigh Farm Centre for their Halloween

Spooktacular, especially as they also cater for the little

ones, with some less spooky attractions just for them!

They have stuff going on all over the half term (yep after

those 6 weeks off, another break is coming up!) and they

are giving you to chance to win a family ticket to see for

yourself.

So whatever you do, make sure you have lots of fun but

don’t eat too many sweets!! I’m off to get my witches

costume ready, however I’m sure some may say I don’t

need to go to too much effort!

A Family Ticket* to Thurleigh Farm Centre

Spooky Spectacular!

All you need to do is email your name, address and

telephone number to [email protected] using

Thurleigh in the subject line, by October 19th

*A Family Ticket is for 2 adults and 2 children but additional tickets can be

purchased if necessary see their website for details –

www.thurleighfarmcentre.co.uk. The winner will be picked at random and no

cash alternative available. All entries will be passed to Thurleigh Farm Centre

but not to a third party.

Welcome to the musings of Yummy Mummy. Living in Bedford sheis married to ‘The Husband’ and together they have 4 children,

Rafferty, 7, Violet, 5, Roman, 4 and baby Clementine.

Yummy Mummy

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 [email protected]

(All activities inclusive with the exception of a charge for pumpkins. Age restrictions may apply).

Children 4+ £10.00Children 3 & under £9.00Adults £9.00

2012 spooky ad CHILD MAG/PRIMARY TIMES 135x90:TFC spooky ad 135x90.qxd 17/09/2012 14:32 Page 1

(All activities inclusive with the exception of a charge for pumpkins. Age restrictions may apply).

Children 4+ £10.00Children 3 & under £9.00Adults £9.00

2012 spooky ad CHILD MAG/PRIMARY TIMES 135x90:TFC spooky ad 135x90.qxd 17/09/2012 14:32 Page 1

(All activities inclusive with the exception of a charge for pumpkins. Age restrictions may apply).

Children 4+ £10.00Children 3 & under £9.00Adults £9.00

2012 spooky ad CHILD MAG/PRIMARY TIMES 135x90:TFC spooky ad 135x90.qxd 17/09/2012 14:32 Page 1

(All

activ

ities

incl

usiv

e w

ith th

e ex

cept

ion

of a

cha

rge

for

pum

pkin

s. A

ge r

estr

ictio

ns m

ay a

pply

).

Child

ren

4+ £

1 0.0

0Ch

ildre

n 3

& u

nder

£9.

00Ad

u lts

£9 .

0 0

2012

spo

oky

ad C

HILD

MAG

/PRI

MAR

Y TI

MES

135

x90:

TFC

spoo

ky a

d 13

5x90

.qxd

17/

09/2

012

14:

32 P

age

1

(All activities inclusive with the exception of a charge for pumpkins. Age restrictions may apply).

Children 4+ £10.00Children 3 & under £9.00Adults £9.00

2012 spooky ad CHILD MAG/PRIMARY TIMES 135x90:TFC spooky ad 135x90.qxd 17/09/2012 14:32 Page 1

AWARD

WINNING

+ Scary Tractor Ride

+ Ghost Train

+ Monster Maize Blast

+ Carving

+ Orridly Aunted Hattic

+ Story Telling01234 771597

www.thurleighfarmcentre.co.uk

OCTOBER HALF TERM27th October - 4th November from 9.30am

Open late: 30th, 31st October,

2nd and 3rd NovemberIncludes Firework Finale

Trick or Treat? You Decide!

WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN

All activities inclusive with the exception of a charge for pumpkins

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:53 Page 40

Bromham Mill celebrates

Apple Day

at Bromham Mill & GallerySunday 21st October 2012

11.00am - 4.30pmJoin us for our annual celebration of the brilliant British apple!

Taste, eat, drink, try and buy your local apples

(if accompanied by an adult)

(All activities inclusive with the exception of a charge for pumpkins. Age restrictions may apply).

Children 4+ £10.00Children 3 & under £9.00Adults £9.00

2012 spooky ad CHILD MAG/PRIMARY TIMES 135x90:TFC spooky ad 135x90.qxd 17/09/2012 14:32 Page 1

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:53 Page 41

44

Lif

esty

le

Learning toconquer fears

Almost everyone is afraid of something

and the emotion ‘fear’ can be a

useful survival response to a

particular stimulus. Usually

the stimulus is a perceived threat or

danger, for example a wild animal, a

car running out of control, or waking

to hear someone in the house at

night. In these instances fear helps

us by preparing our bodies for ‘fight

or flight’. The symptoms will be

familiar to us all and are caused by

hormones like adrenaline being

released into the bloodstream, which in

turn have certain effects on particular organs.

The problem comes not with fears that are

rational and protective but with the

many irrational fears that lots of

people encounter. Being afraid of

a tarantula is entirely

reasonable, being afraid of a

small spider in the bath,

which can’t possibly hurt

you is very different. It is

often these irrational fears

that have a very negative

impact on people’s lives

causing anxiety, possibly

panic attacks and definitely

interfering with a person’s day to

daily life.

Symptoms of fight or flight response

• Heart rate quickens

• Vision may narrow

• Paling or flushing of the skin

• Digestive system slows

• Dry mouth

• Muscles tense

• May become hyper alert

• Sweating though skin may feel cold

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:53 Page 42

45

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

07921 193479 [email protected] www.attunededucation.com

In addition some people experience quite extreme

phobias, often related to things that won’t actually cause

harm e.g. claustrophobia (fear of closed in spaces)

agoraphobia (fear of open spaces or crowded public

places) dentophobia (fear of dentists) or mysophobia

(fear of being contaminated with dirt or germs) to name

but a few!!

The important thing to remember about phobias is that

the level of fear and distress does not equate with the

risk. Being intensely afraid of a python is reasonable,

being unable to look at the TV screen when a python is on

is not - as there is no risk.

Definitions• Fear – Feeling of agitation and anxiety caused by

present or imminent danger.

• Phobia - An intense, unrealistic fear that may interfere

with day to day life.

• Anxiety – A state of uneasiness or apprehension.

• Stress – Mental, physical or emotional strain or

tension.

• Panic Attack – Intense attack of anxiety often with

physical symptoms and a sense of impending doom.

Origins of fearSo where do our fears come from? Well in the same way

that we learn about lots of other aspects of life, we also

learn to be afraid. Sometimes this comes from direct

experience. A child who is stung by a wasp may well be

quite afraid of them. If we have an unpleasant experience

of any other sort, then we will probably try to avoid

repeating that or similar experiences in the future. But it

is unlikely that a child in England has been hurt by a

spider, yet lots of people are afraid them. Sometimes we

learn to be afraid by seeing others exhibiting fear. A child

whose parent is afraid of spiders may see them showing

both avoidance ‘let’s not go in the shed as there might be

spiders in there’ or demonstrating very real anxiety when

confronted with one and children, who are very tuned in

to adult’s responses, will pick this up. Quite simply if an

adult they trust, who cares for them, is afraid, then in their

mind it is something worthy of fear.

Sometimes children learn fears from watching other

children who are afraid of things or indeed watching

certain programmes – we all know children are both

impressionable and unpredictable. Two children may

encounter, for example, the same programme but

something in it may scare one and not the other.

It is also important to remember that fears are a very

normal part of childhood – toddlers are often afraid of

separation from adults, loud noises, strangers, etc. and as

they get older they may fear ghosts or monsters. Learning

to deal with or manage our fears is also an important part

of growing up.

Conquering fears and phobiasThe good news is that whatever the origins of our fears

there are a whole range of techniques we can use to help

us deal with our fears and anxieties.

When? Many people live with a fear or phobia that doesn’t impact

their life very much. For example to be afraid of snakes in

England probably doesn’t cause too many problems on a

day to day level. People with this phobia may avoid visits

to the zoo or films like ‘Snakes on a Plane’, but other than

that their life can continue as normal. In many ways they

can choose when they wish to deal with their phobia.

But if your fear or phobia is causing you problems or

stopping you living the life you want, then it’s probably a

good idea to get help.

How?Many individuals and agencies offer help to overcome

fears and phobias. Techniques used vary from simple

relaxation techniques, which put you more in control of

your panic responses, to hypnotherapy or counselling

which may seek to analyse why the phobia exists and deal

with the root cause.

Deep seated phobias are often best dealt with by getting

some professional help but for others there are some

simple steps you can take to manage your fears:

• Decide that you want to overcome your fear and that

now is the right time for you (good not to do it when

there are a lot of other stresses for example)

• Learn a good relaxation technique, this will mean you

can calm yourself if you start to feel anxious. For

example simply sitting or standing with back straight,

close eyes and take a deep breath in to a slow count of

5 then out again to a slow count of 5 and repeat 10

times.

• Try constructing your own ‘fear ladder’ which you can

use to desensitize your responses – so If you are afraid

of rats for example, try looking at a picture then perhaps

watch them on the TV using your relaxation technique

to make sure you don’t become stressed. When you can

cope with that, perhaps visit a pet shop where you know

they are caged and you know you can leave whenever

you want.

• Start to challenge the thoughts that feed the fear – most

people who travel by plane arrive safely, the majority

of dogs don’t bite unless provoked.

Although some aspects of fear can be exciting – the roller

coaster ride or the horror movie – and of course in the

month of Halloween many people will ‘enjoy’ ghosts and

ghouls but living with fear can ruin lives and certainly

help is available for people whose daily lives are disrupted

by fears and phobias.

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:53 Page 43

ORGANIC SALMONwith Lemon, Jersey Royal

Potatoes and Caviar

Food

&D

rin

k

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:53 Page 44

Ingredients

Recipe

This month’s recipe brings fine dining into your home from

the award winning Murrays restaurant at Whittlebury Hall.

For the salmon mi-cuit: (half cooked)

Clean and trim the salmon removing all bones using sharp

knife remove fillet from the skin.

Portion the salmon into 50g pieces (barrel shape).

Fill the pan with vegetable oil and bring up to 48c (if you're

using a pan with oil regulate the temperature careful).

Place the salmon into the oil bath for 20 minutes, remove

and drain on a clean cloth, and season with Maldon sea salt

and white pepper.

For the potatoes:

Scrub potatoes under cold water. Boil them until tender

(approximately 10 minutes). Once cooked, drain and cool

slightly before cutting them in square shape (2x2cm).

For the lemon gel:

Peel the lemons using a kitchen peeler, reserve the lemons.

Place the lemon skin into a pan with cold water and bring

it to the boil, once boiling change the water with fresh,

repeat this another 10 times (this takes out the bitter

flavour of the lemons).

Drain the lemon zest and place in a fast speed food blender

together with juice from one lemon, sugar syrup and the

xanthan gum. Once blended, pass through a fine strainer.

Arrange decoratively on a plate and your guests will be

amazed.

BUON APETITO!

Louis Jadot Mâcon-Aze 2011

Tasting like a much more

expensive white burgundy, this

has complex but subtle layers

of creamy oranges, buttered

toast and hazelnuts. A sure-fire

hit with all cooked salmon

dishes.

£10.49 Waitrose

Salmon (Loch Duart) 4 pieces salmon fillet about 50g

trimmed of skin

Keta caviar 20g (washed)

Avruga caviar 20g

Jersey royal potatoes 200g (washed)

Chives 20g (finely chopped)

Sugar syrup 50ml

Xanthan gum 2g

Lemons 4

Vegetable oil 1litr (for cooking the salmon)

Edible flowers for decoration

McGuigan Bin Series

Chardonnay

This Chardonnay is packed

with peach, citrus and apple

aromas, layered with a rich

biscuit-like character and

creamy vanillin notes. Added

texture and complexity is

provided by careful aging in

French oak barrels.

£10.99 Sainsburys

Taste the Difference

Chenin Blanc

This deliciously zingy and

fruity wine is packed with

the mouthwatering

flavours of tropical fruit

and citrus zest.

Vibrant and fresh

£5.99 Sainsburys

The perfectBottle

“47

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:53 Page 45

Preheat your oven to 200C/400F/Gas mark 6.

Place the brown sugar and lemon juice into a small ovenproof

pan and cook over a medium heat until the sugar has melted

and combined with the lemon juice.

Put the apples into the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes or until

the apples have become golden-brown and nicely

caramelised.

For the pastry, put all the pastry ingredients into a bowl of a

food processor and mix until it looks like breadcrumbs.

Turn the pastry mixture out onto a floured surface and knead

it until it forms a smooth dough.

Roll out the dough until it is 1cm/½in thick. Cut a circle of

dough that is 1cm/½in larger than the frying pan.

Spread the caramelised apples out in the pan and lay the

pastry over them.

Push the edges of the pastry into the side of the pan to seal

the pastry over the apples.

Transfer the frying pan to the oven and cook for about 10-12

minutes.

To serve, turn your apple tarte tatin out onto a clean serving

plate and we suggest serving with a refreshing fruit sorbet.

For the apples

• 50g/1¾oz soft brown sugar

• 1 lemon, juice only

• 2 apples, peeled, cored and chopped

For the pastry

• 115g/4oz butter

• 115g/4oz self raising flour, plus extra for

dusting

• 115g/4oz caster sugar

• 2 free-range eggs

• 1 tbsp double cream

• Fruit Sorbet or an accompaniment of your choice

Ingredients Method

Apple Tart Tatin

This sweet is brought to you by the Chef at

The Millhouse -Riverside Restaurant Hotel

Sharnbrook

48

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:53 Page 46

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:53 Page 47

50

Fine Dining at

Murray’sF

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:53 Page 48

or those of you that know me, know I love a bit

of glamour and all that goes with it, so I was

delighted to be able to put on my glad rags to go

and discover fine dining with a difference. Boasting

2 AA Rosettes and an intimate and relaxing

atmosphere, the award winning Murray’s Restaurant

at Whittlebury Hall was the place for our latest

Restaurant Review.

Murray’s is aptly named after the famous F1

commentator Murray Walker. Whilst relaxing in the

lounge and during dinner you can reminisce on the

F1 commentary years of Murray Walker, whilst

admiring the vast collection of photographs with F1

celebrities.

We arrived to be shown into the lounge where we

were served aperitifs with mouth watering

homemade canapés, whilst mulling over the modern

British menu created by the award winning head

chef Damyan Stefanov.

Choices made, we were led through to the intimate

private dining room which is absolutely perfect for a

romantic meal for two.

Fresh rolls in unusual flavours were served along

with a potato based amuse bouche with roasted

crisps, absolutely delicious.

Starters of Duck Pressing (duck liver air dried breast,

prunes and cherries) and Pigs Cheeks (braised pig

cheeks, apple, and galette potato) were served. The

presentation was like a work of art - far too good to

eat, and the duck was cooked to perfection. The

galette potato mixed with the apple complimented

the tender succulent cheeks, pure excellence.

These tasty starters were followed by Cotswold

White Chicken (stuffing, pancetta, apricots,

asparagus and girolles) the contrast of flavours from

the smoky pancetta and apricot complimented the

tender chicken perfectly. Poached Brill (wild

mussels, puffed pasta, romanesco and sesame seed

sand) was my husbands choice, the mussels were

meaty and full of flavour and the brill was mouth-

watering delicious.

I always say I’m not having dessert but always end up

having my arm twisted (not that it takes a lot) and so

an Eton Mess and Chocolate & Banana were ordered

along with two glasses of dessert wine, which

complimented the dishes perfectly.

Dessert was followed by coffee together with

homemade petit fours; the entire evening reminded

me of dining on the Orient Express, and was truly

memorable.

The whole experience was absolutely faultless,

presentation was perfect, dishes delightful, and

service superb. Fine dining at its best, an experience

I recommend - everyone should try it at least once.

F

Murray’s Restaurant, Whittlebury Hall

www.whittleburyhall.co.uk

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:53 Page 49

J

The new season has not long kicked off

and I already cannot for the life of me

understand why Darragh and Darren

have come in for so much stick here at

Peterborough.

I understand the frustrations of the supporters

at our current form, but we need to stick

together. The chairman has been totally

supportive of the manager, spending millions

of pounds in the last six months to assemble a

squad that the gaffer is happy with. He has

stated it is his best squad that has been put

together.

What people don’t see is behind the scenes

where we have had an unbelievable list of

injuries in pre-season and some are only just

returning now. In fact, Tommy Rowe is still on

his way back. This is not an excuse, it’s a fact!

There are many examples of sides who have

gone on a bad run and bounced back. Reading

lost five games on the bounce near the start of

last season and were second bottom in the

league table after six matches.

Wigan Athletic lost eight games on the bounce

in the Premier League and still finished 15th

with 42 points, so all is not lost.

I am sure if we all stick together and be united

and get behind Darragh and Darren, we will

start winning matches and climb that table.

Up the POSH!

Barry Fry

52

Fry’sfootie corner

www.theposh.com

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:53 Page 50

The Hewney Slim fit

Checked Shirt £49.95

Joules of Olney

Red Check £49.95

Conte di Savoia Bedford

Blue Plain £49.95

Conte di Savoia Bedford

Ibiza Shirt £69.99

themensshirtcompany.com

Chukka Check £79.99

themensshirtcompany.com

Get Shirty!

The Webley Classic

Checked Red £64.95

Joules of Olney

Affinity October 2012_Layout 1 copy 22/09/2012 07:17 Page 51

Offer available till the end of October

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:53 Page 52

MAN

Describe yourself in three words?

Charismatic, Crazy, Workaholic

What makes you stand out in a crowd?

Once upon a time it was my dashing good looks, now it

would my personality

Your top three movies?

High School Musical Trilogy, Tangled, Gnomeo & Juliet –

with 4 daughters I really don’t get a choice…

What do you do to relax?

Spend time with my wife & girls and ignore my

blackberry!

Your most extravagant purchase and why?

My Panerai bought to honour my Nonno’s memory as I

would always wind his watch on and set the time to the

ceefax clock, while enjoying a cup of tea with custard

creams after school. He was a great 1st Generation

Italian arriving in Bedford in 1951 – very proud of what

he achieved and stood for.

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

An Astronaut

Describe your ideal woman?

My Wife….I have no idea how she does it all!

Best Holiday destination and why?

Anywhere in the World as long as I am sharing it with

the most important 5 ladies in my life.

You can’t leave the house without?

Blackberry, Watch, Keys…oh and my Russian leather

Manbag.

Where do you see yourself in ten years?

Ten years ago I did not expect to be where I am today; I

am involved in other projects so who knows what

fruits/progress my efforts will bring…I don’t stand still

too long…

What three people dead or alive would you invite to

a dinner party and why?

Ayrton Senna, Elvis and JFK – it would be an

inspirational and eclectic conversation on table 7 at

VesuviO’s

What makes you happy?

Lunch at Mum & Dad’s with the whole family

Saturday night you can be found where?

The Sharnbrook Hotel & VesuviO in Sharnbrook doing

what I do

55

Age: 36

Occupation: General Manager at The

Sharnbrook Hotel & VesuviO

Resides: Clapham, Bedfordshire

of the Month

Ciro Ciampi

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:54 Page 53

Lif

esty

le

Phantom of the Opera

56

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:54 Page 54

When a musical has been running for more than a

quarter of a century, grossed more than £3bn at

the box office and amassed every major industry

award, it would seem a bit crazy to mess with the magical

formula.

But Andrew Lloyd Webber decided to relaunch The

Phantom of the Opera to mark its 25th anniversary – and,

luckily, the new version is simply stunning.

With some clever sets and eerie lighting – and, of course,

an elaborate chandelier suspended high above the

auditorium as the centrepiece – the new-look Phantom is

a feast for the eyes.

But it’s the wonderful music, which has become ingrained

in our psyche during the last couple of decades, that really

makes this production such a success and led to it

winning the ‘Most Popular Musical Audience Award’,

voted by the public, in the 2002 Laurence Olivier Awards.

It initially opened at Her Majesty's Theatre on 9th October

1986 and starred Michael Crawford as The Phantom and

Sarah Brightman as Christine. When it reaches Milton

Keynes Theatre later this month (24th October) The

Phantom is played by Earl Carpenter and Christine by

Katie Hall.

Set in and around the Opera House in Paris in 1881,

Phantom tells the story of a disfigured genius who will

stop at nothing to see his protégé, Christine Daaé, become

the first lady of the stage and sing his works. The

orphaned Christine sees the Phantom as the “angel of

music” who, her father promised, would protect her when

he died.

On the eve of Christine’s successful debut, the theatre’s

new patron, handsome, rich Raoul, realizes Christine is a

childhood friend, and he is again smitten.

So begins a cat-and-mouse competition for Christine

between the Phantom and Raoul.

At its heart, Phantom is about the obsessive pursuit of

something, anything that will give the pursuer peace. At

times, the object of pursuit is revenge, recognition or

riches, but in the end, it is a show about the redeeming

qualities of love, qualities that redeem both the lover and

the one loved.

So be the first to surrender to the music of the night and

fall in love with The Phantom, in his new guise, all over

again at Milton Keynes Theatre from Wednesday 24th

October.

Milton Keynes Theatre

Weds 24th October - Sat 24th November

www.atgtickets.com/miltonkeynes

57

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:54 Page 55

We have built an enviable reputation for qualityproducts and customer satisfaction. Traditional or

contemporary, the choice is yours.

Visit Our Showroom Today, Your Home Will Thank You

Over 35 years of experience in the window business

T: 01234 400500 F: 01234 400501 E: [email protected]

Windows, Doors andConservatories

Apollo House, Aston Road,Bedford MK42 0LJ

Hundreds ofsatisfied customers

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:54 Page 56

Inte

riors

BarkingBarkingMadMad

Isabella_ Red Teatowel

Oven Glove Tea Cosy

Aga Pad & Dog

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:54 Page 57

Scottie Dog Clock £29.50

giftwrappedandgorgeous.com

Sophie Allport Labrador

Tea Cosy £10

sophieallport.com

Dogs Salt & Pepper Set £18

lauraleedesigns.co.uk

Puppies Door

Mat £11.99

giftedpenguin.co.uk

Pug Wooden Sign £14.99

giftwrappedandgorgeous.com

Keep Calm Wall

Plaque £17

sweetpeaandwillow.com

Evans Lichfield

Union Jack Russell

Cushion £25

cotswoldtrading.com

Ben De Lisi

Newspaper Dog

Lamp £45

Debenhams

Barking Mad Cushions £55

sweetpeaandwillow.com

Chihuahua Handpainted

Wooden Sign £14.99

giftwrappedandgorgeous.com

60

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:54 Page 58

Terrier Print Cushion £16

Debenhams

Petit Bouldogue£125

frenchbedroomcompany.co.uk

Typographic Dog

Print £45

betsybenn.co.uk

Carola van Dyke Duncan

the Scottie Cushion £75

cotswoldtrading.com

Mug in a Tin £7.99

countrycomplements.co.uk

Ben De Lisi Royal

Dog Cushion £18

Debenhams

Mabel Blackboard £19

retreat-home.com

French Bulldog Cushion £70

thefrenchbedroomcompay.co.uk

Rex International Bull dog

bottle top wall clock £25

Debenhams

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:54 Page 59

█ Over 23 years experience

█ Free quotes

█ Professional advice

█ Design, planning & construction available

█ All work fully insured

█ Local business

We will provide a service from

planning to completion

01234 327205

07801 880557

The space above your head is the room you have always dreamed of

www.loftconversionsbedfordshire.co.uk

G. ButlerLoft and Garage Conversion Specialist

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:54 Page 60

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:54 Page 61

ifeL Eco

You spend up to

a third of your life asleep, so

why not turn your bedroom into

a natural haven with these

eco friendly products

64

Bamboo Mirror £235

puji.com

Vienna And Vermont Bed

Linen Collection £17

thefinecottoncompany.com

Zola Mango Wood

Candle Sticks £34

fairwindonline.com

Upcycled Grain Sack

Armchair £495

theoldcinema.co.uk

Bamboo Natural

Table Lamp £65

puji.com

Banana Skin Vase £79

puji.com

Salvaged

Czechoslovakian

Factory Lights £340

skinflintdesign.co.uk

Stone Wash Gris Bedside

Table £325

sweetpeaandwillow.com

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:55 Page 62

For all your home andgarden needs

One o jobs to regularmaintenance

CC&&BB HHoommee aanndd GGaarrddeenn MMaaiinntteennaannccee

For a friendly reliable service and a freequote give us a call on 07531 [email protected]

01234 721565 / 07969423265

www.iwantaplumber.co.uk

BEAT CONTRACTING LTD

Plumbing, heating, gas,

solar hot water, gas boiler

servicing and repair

“Traditionalplumber’s modern

solutions”

Pruning

Crown Lifting

Crown Reduction

Tree Removal

Crown Thinning

Sectional Dismantling

Stump Grinding

Hedge Work

Garden Clearance

100%

Recycle

We are fully insured and all

work undertaken is carried

out with respect for you

and your property.

Please call for a Free quote

Tel: 01234 330796

Mob: 07866 554673

[email protected]

www.simplytreeservices.co.uk

Simply Tree ServicesSimply Tree Services

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:55 Page 63

We’re now well and truly into autumn. Spiders’ webs

glisten with the early morning dew and leaves have

been falling from the trees for some time now. It’s best to

clear them up regularly, especially from lawns – the grass

will become weakened and eventually die off if covered

with leaves for any length of time.

The lawn mower will pick them up whilst the grass is still

being cut but after that my

advice is to invest in a wide

headed plastic rake – I find they

are far more effective and easier

to use than the ones with metal

tines. If you have a lot of trees

shedding leaves it might be

worth investing in a blower – I

have one and for me it’s worth its

weight in gold and saves a huge

amount of time and energy.

Some machines also have a

hoover like attachment which

sucks up the leaves, chops them

up and collects the mulch in a

bag which you can then unzip

and tip back onto the flower

beds as a winter mulch.

However you can still make a good leaf mulch without the

use of machinery. Pack the leaves into black bin liners,

watering them if dry, tie the sack tops and then leave for a

year or two by which time the leaves will have rotted

down and formed a lovely dark crumbly mulch.

Remember only to use deciduous tree leaves – evergreens

don’t rot down. Some rot quicker than others – fruit tree

leaves are excellent.

Sycamores and horse chestnuts are much more leathery

in texture and will take longer to decompose. And you

don’t even have to dig in winter

mulch, manure or compost –

the worms will do that for you

over the winter months.

My flower for this month is

Echinacea. Its common name is

the ‘Coneflower’. You may have

seen the pink petalled variety,

which is the most commonly

seen but there are many other

types and colours. This is a

hardy, drought tolerant, clump

forming perennial which

flowers until the first frosts and

grows to around a metre in

height. Bees and butterflies

love it and the last ten years of

Echinacea breeding have seen

big breakthroughs in colour

and flower form and there are now scented varieties. My

current favourite is ‘Firebird’ which has scarlet petals

falling backwards away from the dark brown cone.

Gardening in

October

ᴥ Any perennials that have finished flowering can be cut back

to the base

ᴥ Sow sweet peas in pots and keep in a greenhouse or cold

frame over winter

ᴥ Harvest apples, pears, grapes and nuts. Store apples and

pears in boxes or special trays and keep in a cool dark place

Make sure the fruits do not touch each other, so that if one

goes rotten it doesn’t spread to the surrounding fruit

ᴥ If you haven’t done so already, prune climbing roses. I tend

to cut mine hard back with off shoots taken to the first leaf

joint.

ᴥ October is an ideal month for planting spring flowering

bulbs – daffodils, tulips, crocus, allium – and there’s a huge

selection available in a multitude of colours.

Affinity

Echinacea

October tips....

Alison Wallbank

The Lady Gardener

01234 782383 or 07795 246558

www.bedfordshiregardendesigners.co.uk

Affinity loves.....

66

Glow In The Dark Wellies

These gorgeous

Glow in the Dark

Wellies are

perfectly

practical with

the added

brilliant benefit

of glowing in the

dark! £22.99

www.glow.co.uk

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:55 Page 64

"�!���������������"�����"����� ���������������

�7(3����9($34�(82(3,(0&(�

�(0(3$.��$,05(0$0&(�

�3((�615(4

������,4$%,.,59�,4&16054

�1��1%511� /$..

�(')13'��� 633160',0*��3($4

�(3(-��''9���������� ������� �������������� �������

ConservationRestorationPreservation

Free QuotationFriendly teamSkilled Tradesmen

T: 01234 823 367E: [email protected]

Specialist Roo/ng Contractor

All Types of Roo/ng Materials

Unit A, Firs Farm, Stagsden West End, Beds MK43 8TB

Mon - Fri 8-5.30Sat 8-1

Bedford Wheels for Vehicle Servicing & Tyres, Technology you can Lean on!

56 College Street Kempston Bedford MK42 8LUTel: 01234 216662 Facsimile: 01234 400047

[email protected]

∙ We are the main stockist for all leading manufacturers of motorcycle tyres

∙ Bedford Wheels carries out full and interim servicing by professional, well trained technicians

Use our Drive-In-While-U-Wait Motor-cycle Tyre Fitting service!

∙ Specialists in High Performance Car Tyres

∙ Established 16 years

∙ Genuine Vehicle Service Parts Used (Maintaining Warranty)

∙ Courtesy Cars Available

∙ Car Collection & Delivery

∙ MOT Repairs Carried Out

Vehicle Servicing - Cars and Commercial Vehicles

Bedford Wheels for friendly professional advice with competitive prices The price we quote is the price you pay!

Alison Wallbank 01234 782383 07795 246558www.bedfordshiregardendesigners.co.uk

The Lady GardenerGarden Design and Landscaping

Country and Cottage Garden Specialist

Restoration and Planting Schemes

Maintenance - Regular or Occasional

Experienced, Knowledgeable and Reliable

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:55 Page 65

The most proactive recruitment company?

Looking for a recruitment consultancy that really listens to what you want, and

you deserve?

Whether you are looking for permanent or temporary roles, and full time or part time roles we can help. We are currently recruiting for sales, marketing, IToperations, and admin positions at all levels.

Contact us now! 01234 268012

[email protected] www.advancingpeople.co.uk

re, Brickhill Drive, Bedfor

Advancing People areholding regular Open Days

where our recruitment consultants will provide you with:

V writing tips

Interview guidance

areers advice

Knowledge of the local o market

Free government funded training su ect to eligi ility

We will also match your skills and experience to vacancies on our data ase. The perfect o for you may e closer than you think.

Call us now on 01234 268012 to

ok an appointment (limited availa ility)

I ROVE YOUR JOB ROS E TS.

BOOK YOUR

FREE CONSULTATION

TODAY.

Flyer.indd 2 3/5/12 22:56:04

throughout October

[email protected] Road, MK43 7RBOakley

Phone 01234 824983

TudorRosePatchwork

Your LOCAL Threadcraft Hobby Shop!http://www.tudorrosepatchwork.co.uk

Present this Magazine and get10% off your next Purchase!*

*Cannot be used with other offers

Batik Fabrics

Come in and admireour range of Batiks!

Over the past couple of years we’ve noticed a

growing enthusiasm among our customers for

batik fabrics. Sure, most of them are patchworkers,

who use the brighter batiks as themes and perhaps the

more subtly-coloured batik fabrics for separating

strips or borders (or even backings!), But a growing

number of people are buying batik fabrics for skirts,

shirts, jackets and other clothing items.

Batik is an Indonesian word which seems to mean

“painted fabric”, and batik is seen as an Indonesian

craft, but this isn’t actually true. Sure, Indonesia claims

the craft of wax-resist fabric dyeing as a national and

cultural treasure, and a fair percentage of Indonesia’s

export income is earned selling batik fabrics. However,

the process of wax-resist dyeing of fabrics has been

around for thousands of years. Examples have been

found from all over the Far East.

Wax-resist dyeing uses the principle that “oil and

water don’t mix”. Therefore, for each colour being

used, liquid wax is applied to the fabric where the

artist doesn’t want dye to adhere. The dye is then

applied, and the wax is removed when the dye has

dried, and the process is repeated until the desired

effect has been achieved. It can be a painstaking

process, but the results can be quite breathtaking.

Many people believe that batik is equivalent to tie-

dying, but that isn’t necessarily true. While some

batik fabrics have abstract patterns, it is entirely

possible to create very precise, sharp-edged patterns.

It is a process, not a design!

Batik is a popular craft, and here in Britain there are

several clubs and guilds dedicated to promoting it as

an art-form, these artists are producing some

spectacular pictures. An internet search will quickly

find some of them, and it would be well worth your

effort to do so.

Batik isIrresistible!

�&#�+ �$%�"#���&��$��$! ������ �� �'�� � �#���+#��(!!��(����

���"�)!&�(�#��%��$�(� %�#

�#!��$$�! ������&$%�� ��������!���

&��� ��$�*��

������

������������������������ �

�#����!��������'�#)��'�������

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:55 Page 66

The most proactive recruitment company?

Looking for a recruitment consultancy that really listens to what you want, and

you deserve?

Whether you are looking for permanent or temporary roles, and full time or part time roles we can help. We are currently recruiting for sales, marketing, IToperations, and admin positions at all levels.

Contact us now! 01234 268012

[email protected] www.advancingpeople.co.uk

re, Brickhill Drive, Bedfor

Advancing People areholding regular Open Days

where our recruitment consultants will provide you with:

V writing tips

Interview guidance

areers advice

Knowledge of the local o market

Free government funded training su ect to eligi ility

We will also match your skills and experience to vacancies on our data ase. The perfect o for you may e closer than you think.

Call us now on 01234 268012 to

ok an appointment (limited availa ility)

I ROVE YOUR JOB ROS E TS.

BOOK YOUR

FREE CONSULTATION

TODAY.

Flyer.indd 2 3/5/12 22:56:04

throughout October

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:55 Page 67

The new Mercedes ML63 AMG

is the range-topping version

of the company's new M-

Class SUV, and was available from

July to buy for the bargain price of

£82,995!!

It has a twin-turbo 5.5-litre V8

engine that produces 518bhp –

15bhp more than the engine in the

old ML63 – yet average economy is

boosted by 40% to 23.9mpg. Those

who want more power can add an

AMG Performance pack that brings

an extra 32bhp, along with stronger

brakes and styling enhancements.

The ML63 AMG can accelerate from

0-62mph in just 4.8 seconds, or a

tenth faster with the optional AMG

Performance package.

For such a big car, the ML63 is

surprisingly agile, with steering

that's direct and rewarding.

Sports air suspension – with

Comfort, Sport and Sport+ modes –

comes as standard, as do 20-inch

alloys.

Selecting Sport+ lowers the

suspension by 10mm, as does

driving above 45mph. This

improves high-speed stability.

However, selecting Sport+ also lets

you feel every imperfection in the

road surface.

It’s hard to fault the V8 engine. It

has a smooth power delivery and

works well with the standard

automatic gearshifts

The exterior and interior styling

have also come in for attention, the

bodywork includes exclusive front

and rear aprons and side skirts,

AMG – specific LED daytime

running lamps as part of the

standard Intelligent Light System,

an AMG sports exhaust system with

two twin tailpipes to give it its

charismatic exhaust note and

‘V8BITURBO’ lettering on the front

wings.

Inside there are leather upholstered

AMG sports seats (heated at the

front), an AMG four spoke steering

wheel trimmed in Nappa leather

and with a flat lower section, AMG

instruments, floor mats, sports

pedals and footrest in brushed

stainless steel with rubber studs.

The Mercedes-Benz ML63 AMG is

the sort of car you crave, not need -

a sheer luxury. But if you're in the

one percent that demands

exceptional transportation (price be

damned!) the Mercedes-Benz ML63

AMG fills a perfect little niche that's

difficult to duplicate.

Is it ridiculous to pay this amount of

money for an SUV with ultra high-

performance abilities? Depends on

your perspective; buyers with

down-to-earth budgets will surely

scoff, but those with the means will

feel there's nothing that can quite

substitute the feeling provided by

vehicles as extreme as the

Mercedes-Benz ML63 AMG.

70

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:55 Page 68

MeRCeDeSML63 AMG

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:55 Page 69

Tra

vel

Adirect 7 hour afternoon flight from London

means that you can be checked into your hotel in

time for dinner.

Car hire is not permitted on the Island but it’s easy to

get around by ferry, hired scooter or bus.

Stops are identified by pink and blue poles. Pink

indicate services inbound to the City of Hamilton and

blue poles are outbound. If you can tear yourself away

from the beaches you might like to visit Gibbs’ Hill

Lighthouse, built in 1846. It is the oldest cast iron

lighthouse in the world.

The hill on which it stands is 245 feet high and the

lighthouse itself measures 117 feet. A 1,000 watt bulb

sits inside a lens and the light it emits can be seen by

ships 40 miles away. You also get a fantastic bird’s eye

view of Bermuda from the top of Gibbs Hill Lighthouse!

Well worth the 185 step walk to the top!

Not far from here is Horseshoe Bay, South Shore,

Southampton. This is definitely the most popular and

one of the most beautiful of Bermuda’s beaches and its

pink sands are shaped like a horseshoe.

With so much to do you will be spoilt for choice with

challenging golf courses, watersports, game fishing,

horse-riding, sailing, the railway walking trail, bird

watching and racquet sports.

Bermuda is no longer as expensive for eating and

drinking out as it was in the past and there are now over

150 restaurants, cafes and bars to choose from to suit all

tastes and budgets

There is a huge selection of excellent hotels too...

A perfect All Inclusive Hotel for families is Grotto Bay

Beach Resort. To get you into the holiday mood take a

short stroll from the hotel down to the Swizzle Inn,

where you can sit outside drinking a Dark 'n' Stormy or

a Rum Swizzle. Gosling Black Seal Rum, brewed on the

island is mixed with ginger beer to create Bermuda’s

unofficial national drink. With the resident tree frogs

greeting you in the background, there is no question

that your holiday has started! You can catch the local

bus that stops right outside Grotto Bay. It’s a 20 minute

journey to Hamilton and just 10 minutes to the historic

town of St George, located to the east-end of the island.

St George is a great place for exploring on foot, a quaint,

charming town.

One of the perfect hotel choices for a honeymoon would

definitely be Rosewood Tucker’s Point Hotel & Spa,

which only opened in April 2009 and it is a world class

resort set in 200 acres with breath-taking views of

Castle Harbour, Harrington Sound and the Atlantic

Ocean.

The hotel is anchored by a stately Manor House perched

above Castle Harbour and each of the 88 guestrooms

and suites are decorated in a classic british style with

refined finishes, distinctive artwork and bespoke

furnishings.

The grounds are perfectly maintained and manicured

and guests of the hotel can also enjoy the dining and

recreational amenities of the private Tucker’s Point Golf,

Beach and Tennis Club.

The golf course and beach are spectacular and have the

WOW factor!

“Bermuda, a British Overseas Territory located off the

east coast of the USA is just waiting to be discovered.....”

Bermuda Busts Out

72

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:55 Page 70

Cambridge Beaches is a romantic cottage

colony retreat featuring a beach front infinity

pool and terrace area adding a contemporary feel. The

suite accommodation is deluxe and individually

decorated in Bermudian style with a british feel and a

private patio with spectacular water views. Be sure to

dine at the open-air Breezes Restaurant overlooking the

stunning Long Bay Beach, where the atmosphere is

friendly and relaxing, the food superb and service

excellent!

Another very popular choice would be The Fairmont

Hamilton Princess.

Highly recommended are the Fairmont Gold Rooms

with a private reception on the 2nd floor located in the

exclusive Fairmont Gold Lounge. The Lounge is stunning

and you can enjoy complimentary afternoon tea,

followed by complimentary internet access, a dedicated

team of staff are on hand to assist with dinner

reservations, local information and anything else that

guests may require.

Why not catch the complimentary 20 minute ferry

service from The Fairmont Hamilton Princess to the

sister hotel The Fairmont Southampton, very popular

with golfers & honeymooners alike. The Fairmont

Southampton boasting 593 rooms and suites, is set

within 100 tropical acres located on the stunning south

shore with miles of pink sand beaches. The Willow

Stream Spa, golf course, and beach are superb and the

views from the Fairmont Gold Rooms are stunning! Be

sure to enjoy a meal at the historic waterfront Waterlot

Inn - their fine dining restaurant, which nestles

gracefully on Jewel’s Bay, with breath-taking sunsets it

has been offering Bermudian fare for over 340 years.

The food and service are exceptional!

If you’ve never visited Bermuda – I would strongly

recommend that you do - you will be very impressed.

To find out more please contact Sue Alexander at

Eagle Travel on 01234 348882

73

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:55 Page 71

74

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

I am a little concerned about my husband and his

health as he seems to be drinking a lot more than he

usually does. We tend to relax with a glass of wine in

the evenings but it has now progressed to a bottle a

night consumed just by him. How can I help him

break this habit? Thank you for your help

Judith

Hi Judith , it is my pleasure to help if I can. The cards tell

me that while the drink is becoming a problem, it is the

need to take it to relax which is the point to look more

deeply into. There seems to be a lot of worries which he

has now, which he did not have before, and he is

showing that because he doesn't want to burden you

with them, he feels that he has to cope with them alone.

The bottle of wine in itself is not a problem, the

depression it covers is , and when this is dealt with the

other problem will lessen. Because the situation with

the wine has hit a sticking point, you are not sharing

this time of day with him, propagating the feeling of

aloneness that he has become enveloped by. Try to go

back to sharing a glass with him, even if you do not

drink it all; it is a time when you can sit and be with

each other, which is in itself a mutual support system.

Slowly he will begin to open up, try not to count how

many glasses he has to how many glasses you have, and

concentrate on conversation. Things should soon get

better all round.

My husband and I have visas to emigrate to

Australia, but since these were issued we have had a

happy accident, resulting in the birth of our

daughter. Time is now running out on these visas

but all our spare money has been spent on our baby

and general living expenses. We are now wondering

if we will ever make it there and I am now having

doubts myself anyway. Do you see this move

happening?

Davina

Hi Davina, it is certainly

unlikely that you will have

time or money to use these

visas in the allotted time. Family has become more

important since the birth of your little girl, and as she

gets older she herself will find it harder to leave friends

and loved ones.The better idea would be to save for a

holiday there, and enjoy the country that way, without

the constant background pressure to move. There is

time in later life to move should you still want to. Had

you really wanted to go, nothing would have stopped

you. If and when it feels that way, then that is the time

to go, and not before.

I am a single parent and currently struggling

financially. I have had to help my son pay off some

debts he had, which has used up all my spare

monies. My business is good one month and not the

next. Do you see this evening itself out and

becoming more profitable for me? Thanks Sue

Jayne. B

It’s my pleasure Jayne. At present most businesses are

going on a roller coaster ride. Yours can even out but not

if you are continually bailing out others. As a mother of

course, you will feel that you must help, but sometimes

it needs you to be strong and focus on the long term

future, of how your son will cope when you are not

there to help him. If you make your business strong

first, there is a chance that you could help him more in

the future, when he has learned not to allow himself to

fall prey to difficulties.

If you fail now, you have little to fall back on. The cards

suggest that you feel guilty regarding something in his

past for which there really is no need for guilt. Bury this

now, and start to move forward.

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

[email protected]

DestinyDiscover your.......

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:55 Page 72

75

With all the hype of Halloween, you can be

forgiven for thinking that all it ever was,

was an excuse to scare old folk, and enact

lavish horror scenes at parties, but

Halloween (or Samhain as it is called in the old religion)

is so much more than fake zombies and children calling

at houses shouting ‘Trick or treat?’

The origins of ‘Trick or Treat’ are believed to have come

from the time of Misrule, when local witches were

allowed retribution on village-folk who had judged

them ill. This was a time when they could curdle the

milk, make people fall into cowpats or give them a nasty

rash, as payment of debts long owed, without the usual

three times back judgements of their creed. They could

always be given a treat instead, and be satisfied, the

debt then considered paid in full. This has become one

of the biggest money-spinners for sweet sales in

modern Britain, along with a social ‘one up on the Jones’

attitude to Halloween decoration which brings in

millions more to industry.

Samhain is a festival of celebration in Witchcraft, and as

with other festivals of the old world, was brought into

recognised society and dulled down or hyped up as

necessary, to help the population feel that the new ways

of religion were less fearful, because of the similarities

between them.

The pumpkins which we now carve out at Halloween

were mostly thrown into the pot by the Americans as

their way of celebrating the older traditions. Originally

in Britain the more commonly grown swedes and

turnips were hollowed out, carved in grimaces, and

candle fuelled. These scary faces were believed to

frighten difficult entities away on a night when, it is still

believed, the veil between the living and the dead is

especially thin.

Other festivals of the old ways have brought ‘Easter

eggs’ from the Ostara celebrations of fertility, and Yule

logs and ‘Christmas’ trees from Yule celebrations when

green forest boughs were brought indoors to signify the

start and continuance of a new life, and the death of an

old one. Maypole dancing and the May Queen traditions

have many strong similarities with those of the May Eve

festival of Beltane.

Harvest festivals and Mabon, (the Autumn Equinox)

both celebrate the fullness of the Harvest and make the

most of the growth of the year, with fruits and grain

given by nature. Thanks given to the god or gods

believed to have allowed and helped this plentiful

bounty. It is still said that up to October 31st

blackberries and hedge-fruits are edible and good, but

afterwards they shouldn’t be eaten because the witches

spit on them, and it is true that often small white bubbly

masses are found on the stems of brambles, after this

date. This is usually the froth which covers and protects

the frog hopper insect, known as ‘toad spit’, but is

usually enough to make people avoid the fruit, however

luscious it appears - just in case.

Sue is holding a hedgewitchcraft workshop on

October 13th (11-6pm) for more information visit

her website:

www.spellboundsue.co.uk/coursesandworkshops.htm

Turnips andToad-spit

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:56 Page 73

Tues 2nd – Sat 6th OctoberBlood Brothers

Milton Keynes Theatre

The legendary Blood Brothers tells the captivating and

moving tale of twins who, separated at birth, grow up on

opposite sides of the tracks, only to meet again with tragic

consequences. The superb score includes Bright New Day,

Marilyn Monroe and the emotionally charged hit Tell Me

It's Not True, starring Marti Pellow as the narrator.

www.atgtickets/miltonkeynes 0844 871 76532

Wed 3rd – Sat 6th October35th Bedford Beer and Cider Festival

Bedford Corn Exchange

Featuring around 110 real ales from 40 local and other

breweries, 40 real ciders and perries, draught and bottled

speciality beers from other European countries. Tasty hot

and cold food, souvenir festival glasses to hire or take

home, festival and brewery clothing, books and gifts for

sale, tombola and glass engraver. Saturday evening

features local folk band “Faeries Wear Boots”.

www.northbedscamra.org.uk

Sat 6th OctoberJohnny Cash Roadshow

The Royal & Derngate

Celebrating the career of a music legend, Clive John stars

in the number one Johnny Cash experience that features

all his greatest hits including Ring Of Fire and Walk The

Line. World class band The Spirit Band, Jill Schoonjans as

June Carter and evocative video projections highlighting

his life combine to re-create a real Cash show with

astounding accuracy, capturing the essence of what it was

like to be there.

www.royalandderngate/tickets

Sun 7th OctoberWedding Fayre 10am – 4pm

Marston Vale Forest Centre

Free entry and free goody bag for all brides.

01234 767037 or email [email protected]

Mon 8th OctoberCharity Ladies Night – 7.30pm

The Swan Hotel, Bedford

Lots of stalls to treat yourself or make a start on the

Christmas shopping. Also 'swap don't shop' for just £1 per

item, so have a seasonal clear out of your wardrobe and

come and swap them for fabulous items from someone

elses. There'll be a raffle on the night too. Raising money

for two great charities - Bedford & District Cerebral Palsy

Society and The Road Victims Trust

Tickets £5 Contact 01234 351759 or 01234 843345

Fri 12th OctoberAffinity’s Black Tie & Tiara Charity Ball

Sharnbrook Hotel, Sharnbrook 7pm – 1am

Join us for a night of glitz and glamour, sparkling drinks

and canapé reception, a sumptuous three course meal,

Raffle, Exclusive Auction, Magic, Casino and

entertainment from “Vision” and “Whamtastic”

£50 per person, or 10% discount for tables of 10

[email protected] 07809499669

Fri 12th OctoberSandy Horticultural Harvest Supper & Auction – 7pm

Quince Court Sandy

Ploughmans supper with dessert and tea/coffee

£7.00 per head. Bring along your own wine/beer.

01767640138 / 07775980861

www.sandyshow.org

Sun 14th OctoberLevel 42

The Royal & Derngate

Level 42 took the 80s by storm with their brand of bass

driven jazz funk that came from the underground soul

scene of wedge hair cuts, pegged trousers, sharp shoes

and soul patrols.

They led a band of UK ‘funksters’ and soul acts that for a

time changed the face of the street scene in Britain ,

dovetailing with the start of the commercial New

Romantic movement, Two Tone and the dying embers of

punk.

www.royalandderngate.co.uk/tickets

Tues 16th OctoberKimbolton Flower Club - 7.30pm

Mandeville Hall, Kimbolton.

The demonstrator is Penny Vincent and her

demonstration title is "IT"S ALL BOOTY".

£6 including light refreshments

Thurs 18th OctoberBedfordshire Businesswomen Fashion Show

Mercedes Benz, Bedford 6pm - 9.30pm

Join us for a great night of networking, drinks & canapes,

a fantastic fashion show for all to enjoy.

www.beds-businesswomen.org

Thurs 18th OctoberBedford RSPB Local Group – 7.30pm

A.R.A. Social Club, Manton Lane, Bedford.

01234 822035

www.rspb.org.uk/groups/bedford

76

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

What’s OnOctober 2012

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:56 Page 74

77If you have an event you would like us to mention please email [email protected]

Fri 19th – Sun 21st OctoberMiddleton Hall plays host to the Milton Keynes Food

Festival - an exciting event featuring recipe

demonstrations, children's cookery school sessions and

a variety of masterclasses throughout the weekend. In

addition you will find a market area selling a selection

of high quality food and drink products.

www.thecentremk.com

Tues 23rd OctoberSally Morgan

Bedford Corn Exchange

Sally Morgan, star of Sky LIVING's Psychic Sally On The

Road, returns for another phenomenal nationwide tour.

Sally's live stage shows are completely unpredictable;

no two shows are ever the same.

Observing how the spirit world can communicate with

us from beyond the grave is an enlightening experience.

Audiences have been left amazed as she delivers

messages with astounding accuracy.

www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk

Thur 25th OctoberLenny Henry: Pop Life!

The Core at Corby Cube

Lenny Henry is a joyous, funny, freaky show about just

how music goes better with everything. Lenny even

plays the piano during this performance – you have

been warned!

A charismatic comic at his best

www.royalandderngate.co.uk/tickets

Sat 27th October10% Off Country Complements Gift Shop

Franklins Farm, Thorncote Green 9am – 5pm

Franklins Farm Open Day

Fun for all the Family

Come along & shop early for Christmas!

www.franklinsfarm.co.uk

Mon 29th OctoberIt's a Hoot!

The Forest Centre, Marston Vale

4 Sessions: 10am, 11am and 1pm and 2pm.

Find out about owls with stories and craft activities.

Event aimed at 4-10 year olds. All materials provided.

All children to be accompanied by an adult. £2.50 per

child.

01234 767037 or email [email protected]

Weds 31st OctoberHalloween Kids’ Party 5pm – 7pm

The Forest Centre,

Marston Vale

£10 Fancy dress

Bookings only 01234

762613

Fri 2nd – Sat 3rdNovemberBakers' Barn Art Group Exhibition & Sale

St John’s Church Hall, St John’s Street, Bedford

Original Paintings & cards (percentage to charity)

Friday 7-9pm, Saturday 10-4pm

Sat 17th – Sat 24th NovemberWest Side Story – the smash hit musical.

Sharnbrook Mill Theatre Trust

Sharnbrook Mill, Sharnbrook, Beds

Night at 7.30pm. Matinee on 24th November at 2pm

Tickets from £10 - £12.

Bedford Box Office 01234 269 519 or in person from

Sharnbrook Post Office

www.sharnbrookmilltheatre.co.uk

Fri 30th November Pure Heart Fashion Show – 7pm

Oakley Village Hall

Ladies clothing by Amari, Hollister, Abercrombie &

Fitch, stunning jewellery & accessories and more.

Phoenix cards, Jamie Oliver, Em-Ellies cakes, Indian

snacks & many more exciting stalls selling perfect gifts

for Christmas.

Tickets are £5 which includes a glass of wine and free

entry into Hazel Kaye prize draw.

Contact Tabitha on 07957 580331 or

[email protected]

����������

���� � ������������������

�2�%-(�3*��)9/%)1-%�%2(�-2�1)136<�3*�= %8��'�-60>

�6-(%<���8,��'83&)6�������66-:%0� ���41����%66-%+)7�����%1�

#,)�",%62&633/��38)0���� %6/��%2)��",%62&633/���)(7������$

���0-88)6-2+��6-2/7����%2%4)A �!)')48-32���"91489397�#,6))��3967)��)%0

!%*@)���;'097-:)��9'8-327�%2(�19',�136)�������

�33/�)%60<�83�%:3-(�(-7%443-281)28��36�8-'/)8�36�74327367,-4�)259-6-)7�40)%7)�'328%'8��

�%2)��6<���������������� ����������1%-0��.%2)�%*?2-8<1%+�'3�9/�

����� �������������

�� �"��� ��� ����������������������

�������������� ������� ��������

�'&)��)���+ ��#$$('& &,�)#%

��������������������������� ��� ��������!�

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:56 Page 75

A quiet night in.......

"The war tried to kill us in the spring," begins this

breathtaking account of friendship and loss. In Al Tafar,

Iraq, twenty-one year old Private Bartle and eighteen-year

old Private Murphy cling to life as their platoon launches a

bloody battle for the city. In the endless days that follow,

the two young soldiers do everything to protect each other

from the forces that press in on every side: the insurgents,

physical fatigue, and the mental stress that comes from

constant danger.

Bound together since basic training when their tough-

as-nails Sergeant ordered Bartle to watch over Murphy,

the two have been dropped into a war neither is

prepared for. As reality begins to blur into a hazy

nightmare, Murphy becomes increasingly unmoored

from the world around him and Bartle takes

impossible actions.

With profound emotional insight, especially into the

effects of a hidden war on mothers and families at home,

THE YELLOW BIRDS is a groundbreaking novel about the

costs of war that is destined to become a classic

Liam Neeson is set to be showing off his very

particular set of skills again as retired CIA agent

Bryan Mills when he finds himself targeted by the

relatives of criminals he killed whilst rescuing his

daughter.

It has been over a year since Bryan Mills used his

‘particular set of skills’ to rescue his daughter Kim

(Maggie Grace) from sex traffickers in Paris. Now

working in Istanbul, Mills is surprised to receive a visit

from Kim as well as his ex-wife Lenore (Famke Janssen).

However any plans to spend time with his family are cut

short as an Albanian criminal, whose son was one of the

men killed in Paris, abducts Lenore - forcing Mills to

take action once again.

When her father the king is murdered by his new wife,

Queen Ravenna (Charlize Theron), Snow White

(Kristen Stewart) is imprisoned, until the day she comes

of age, when the evil queen will devour her heart in order

to keep her immortality. Snow White escapes, only to be

hunted down by The Huntsman (Chris Hemsworth)-

who's been forced into the Queen's service. Luckily for

Snow White, he has a change of heart, and, along with a

group of eight dwarfs (rather than the traditional seven)

and her childhood crush, William (Sam Claflin), they set

off to destroy the queen and bring peace to the kingdom.

Snow White & The Huntsman puts the grim back into the

Brothers Grimm, and for the most part, is a highly

entertaining fantasy adventure.

Release Date: 1st October 2012

DVD release

Latestcinemarelease

78

Release date

5th October

Affinity October 2012 P_Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 21:56 Page 76

A wonderful variety of cask ales, lagers and wines

Christmas menu now available 2 courses £14.50 and 3 courses £19.501st December - 23rd December

The Victoria Arms, High Street, Wilden 01234 772437

“Relaxed Diningat it’s Best”

New Autumn Menu AvailableTuesday - Saturday

12pm - 2pm and Dinner - 6pm until 9pm

Sunday Lunch 12pm - 4pm� � � � �� � �

� � � � � � �� � � � � �

� � � � � � � �

� � �

� � � � � � � �

� � � � � � � � � � � � ��

� � ��� � � � � �

� � � � � ��� �

� � � � �� � � �

�� �

��������������������������

Pie and Mash - 4th October Curry Night - 11th Oct

Chilli, Rice and a Pint - 18th October

6oz Steak, Handcut Chips and Gravy - 25th October

Thursday Night Dates for your Diary Price £6.95

A Friendly Welcome Awaits

Affinity October 2012 Cover _Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 22:06 Page 2

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

OCTOBER 2012

FREE

AF

FIN

ITY

MA

GA

ZIN

E

O

CT

OB

ER

2

01

2

I

SS

UE

17

Jewellers of Distinction

MILLMAN

TEL 01234 354026

2 Church Arcade Bedford

New links now in store

Think PinkHow to look after

your Breasts

50 Shades of AutumnThis seasons fashion pieces

13 Ways to Bullet Proof

your Relationship

Spooky TimesWin tickets to Halloween fun

at Thurleigh Farm Centre

Affinity October 2012 Cover _Layout 1 copy 19/09/2012 22:06 Page 1