Asian Express Yorkshire - August 2nd Edition 2015

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Asian

Express AUGUST 2ND EDITION 2015

Yorkshire



Asian

Express

Yorkshire

AUGUST 2ND EDITION 2015

INSIDE THIS EDITION

See pages 75 & 79

SANJAY DUTT: “From heroin to cocaine, I have tried everything…”

97-yr-old grandad scoops lifetime achievement accolade By Ashley Grint ashley@asianexpress.co.uk

See page 65

PAKISTANI MILITANT WITH $10 MILLION BOUNTY ON HIS HEAD SEEKS TO BAN BOLLYWOOD ACTION FILM

A nonagenarian from Pakistan, who set up his first business in Bradford almost 50 years ago, has been honoured with a prestigious award for his ongoing work in the city. 97-year-old Fazaldin Farooqi was awarded the Rashid Awan Lifetime Achievement Award last week from the Pakistan Society of West Yorkshire (PSWY) to coincide with Pakistan Independence Day. Established in October 1993, the PSWY is a non-political organisation which brings people together for a day of celebration, coinciding with Pakistan Independence Day. Set up by the UK’s first police officer from an ethnic minority background, Rashid Awan, the group host an event every year to celebrate their cultural roots and British values.

Continued on pages 2 & 3

®

Bradford celebrates Pakistan Independence Day


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About Mr Farooqui...

Mr Farooqui arrived in the UK in 1964 at the age of 45 years passing through about 10 to 15 countries. At the time he says a ship through to Germany cost only £10. On arrival he took up work at Mashriq Newspaper in London, and since he was an avid writer in his homeland he continued to do so here as well. His first employment was at Ripton Foundry at £6 a week. Having settled down in the UK, Mr Farooqui moved to Bradford and opened up an Asian sweet shop on Lumb Lane by the name of Lahore and later rented a shop on Leeds Road. He moved on from making sweets to clothing business and eventually into selling carpets and furniture which then became his family's business to this day - Ali Baba. Mr Farooqui is amongst those few who have had the opportunity to work closely with the Bhutto family and founded Pakistan Peoples Party in the UK. Mr Farooqui is held in high regard as one of the role models and icons of Pakistani Community in the UK and Bradford. His personal contribution to the community are uncountable as he has laid the foundations for being amongst the very first to have us recognised.

97-yr-old grandad scoops lifetime achievement accolade Cover story continued Sadly, Mr Awan passed away two years ago and in his honour, the Rashid Awan Lifetime Achievement Award was created to celebrate one British-Pakistani every year, who has made a

positive impact in society. The inaugural award was this year presented to Mr Farooqi, a businessman who has called Bradford his home for almost half a century. In front of more than 500 guests, Mr Farooqi received his award at a gala dinner in Bradford city centre. Meanwhile, earlier in the day, the city was painted green momentarily as Pakistan Independence Day was marked with a special flag raising ceremony. Hundreds of people gathered at Bradford’s Consulate of Pakistan to mark the 69th annual celebration of Independence

Day with dignitaries and guest speakers on hand to help mark the occasion. Every year, on 14th August, celebrations are held around the world to coincide with the historic event of Pakistan’s sovereignty from British Rule in 1947. Upon the announcement of the independence, Muhammad Ali

Jinnah, the first Governor General of Pakistan, sent out the following message to his fellow countrymen as the state of Pakistan was born. “It is with feelings of greatest happiness and emotion that I send you my greetings. “August 15th (later changed to 14th) is the birthday of the independent and sovereign State of Pakistan. “It marks the fulfilment of the destiny of the Muslim nation which made great sacrifices in the past few years to have its homeland.” Last Friday, a flag raising ceremony was held in Bradford with Consul General, Khalil Ahmed Bajwa, doing the honours in front of guests of all ages.


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Bradford celebrates Pakistan Independence Day

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Tributes to an ‘extraordinary man’ INSPIRATIONAL: Kamal Aftab raised tens of thousands of pounds for charity during his life and now his family and friends are determined to continue his legacy

Loved ones vow to meet £50,000 fundraising target

TEAM: Family and friends have vowed to raise the £50,000 target set by Kamal prior to his death, in aid of Lymphoma and Leukaemia Research

By Ashley Grint ashley@asianexpress.co.uk

An award winning charity fundraiser from Huddersfield has died at the age of 32 after a twomonth fight with cancer. Kamal Aftab, a youth coordinator with the Ahmadiyya Muslim Youth Association (AMYA) from Huddersfield, peacefully passed away on Friday 7th August after being diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia back in June. His funeral was attended by around 1,000 mourners from around the world, as the Baitul Tauhid Mosque in Fartown, paid their respects to an ‘extraordinary man’. Right up until his death, the ever-determined fundraiser was still tackling his own charity challenge, having set himself the goal of completing a ‘Hospital Marathon’ - walking 26-miles in his five-metre square hospital room.

Now, his family and friends have vowed to finish the challenge on Kamal’s behalf, aiming to raise the £50,000 target for Leukaemia & Lymphoma Research (LLR). Through a series of fundraising initiatives, the group hope to smash the total, with donations continuing to flood in since Kamal’s passing. His brother, Yousaf Aftab, said the impact Kamal had on people’s lives was evident at his funeral. “It was phenomenal,” he said. “The number of people who came from across the United Kingdom to take part in his funeral was a testament to Kamal’s inspirational nature and his personality. “It shows the affection people had for him and the impact he had on people’s lives. “It is still surreal to think that he is no longer here but in terms of what he has been able to achieve, the most important thing for us is to continue the legacy of his

charitable humanitarian works and the care he had for people, regardless of who they were.” Kamal, who was an optician by trade, had previously raised tensof-thousands of pounds for several national charities and was publically voted ‘Guardian Volunteer of the Year’ in 2014. He was amongst a number of AMYA representatives invited to the Houses of Parliament earlier this year to hand over cheques totalling £340,000 – all raised by the nationwide group over the previous 12 months. Now his fundraising legacy will be continued by his family and friends as they first take on a Three

Peaks Challenge, alongside staff from the Haematology Ward at St James’ Hospital, before a number of other fundraisers are held. “Chemo is a very difficult thing to go through for any person yet despite being in the condition he was in, Kamal never showed that,” Yousaf added. “He fought it all the way with a smile. “With the bad name Muslims may be getting, Kamal’s story should be viewed as the real face of Islam. He not only served his creator but also mankind in terms of humanity.” Kamal’s long-time friend and physician, Dr Aziz Ahmad Hafiz, was the Vice-President at the

AMYA group until earlier this year. He says that despite being in a senior position, it was always his younger colleague who would be the motivator for the group. “In my working capacity, I knew Kamal as a colleague, a best friend, and a charity worker,” he said. “Adjectives do not do him justice when describing the work he carried out and even though I was technically his senior, he was always the one to push people that little bit further. “He should be seen as a guiding light for young members of society across the UK and he will be sadly missed.”

If you would like to make a donation towards Kamal’s £50,000 target for the LLR, please visit www.justgiving.com/hospitalchallenge


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Students celebrate on A Level results day CLEVER: GSAL students (l-r) Amol Joshi, Amrita Singh-Morgan, Ashwin Venkatesh and Priya Rockley celebrate some amazing A level results

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A*mazing Results By Ashley Grint ashley@asianexpress.co.uk

Hundreds of thousands of students from across the UK were tearing open their envelopes as they received their long awaited A-Level results. For many, university is the next step whilst others will head into apprenticeships or employment with a record number of university places accepted nationally for the next cohort of undergraduates. A-level students at The Grammar School at Leeds (GSAL) celebrated an incredible 100 per cent pass rate with over half the cohort achieving a minimum of ABB grades – the requirement of many leading universities One student who quite literally was thanking his lucky stars was 18-year-old Ashwin Venkatesh who achieved four A*s in biology, chemistry, maths and further maths. He will now read medicine at St John’s College, Cambridge. Speaking on results day he said: “It dawned on me last night that I would be getting my results in the morning and I was actually out watching the meteor shower. “I made a wish on the meteor and thankfully it came true.” Ashwin, from Alwoodley, was predicted the highest grades in his four chosen subjects and was able to find his results online from 7am. “I was obviously really happy and went downstairs to show my dad who congratulated me.

“My mum, who had just finished a night shift, heard us talking and came screaming down the stairs and she was very proud. I don’t think she thought I would do as well as I did.” Ashwin’s classmate, Amrita Singh-Morgan, from Roundhay, was equally delighted with her results after discovering she had achieved two A*s in biology and chemistry and an A in maths. She will now read chemistry at Edinburgh University from September. “I was always hoping for the grades but actually achieving them is something else,” she said. “The A* is obviously really difficult to achieve so to have got two of them was fantastic. “My parents were very proud. My mum was screaming and my dad was shouting when I told them about my results.”

HAPPY: Students at Bradford College achieved record results this year (pictured l-r) Asiya Bibi, Khushbu Patel, Hassan Shah and Abduuan Mamaniat

we are going to miss seeing them around GSAL.” Meanwhile, students at Bradford College were also celebrating record results with

“In a year when nationally there has been a reduction in the number of the top grades awarded, we are delighted that over 50 per cent of our A-level grades are A*/A.” GSAL Principal, Mike Gibbons, praised the efforts of all the students and wished them luck in their future study and careers. “In a year when nationally there has been a reduction in the number of the top grades awarded, we are delighted that over 50 per cent of our A-level grades are A*/A,” he said. “We are very proud of their achievements which are the culmination of years of hard work. We wish them all good luck in their future careers and

a 97 per cent pass rate, once again registering higher than the national average. 11 out of 14 subjects resulted in a 100 per cent success rate, with students collecting their results from the David Hockney Building. The college’s Group Chief Executive Officer, Andy Welsh, said: “I’m so proud of how hard our staff and students have worked this year and these results sum up how much effort has gone into this year’s studies.”


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MEP’s discuss Britain and the European Union

EU REFERENDUM DEBATE: MEP Amjad Bashir brought together a panel including Baroness Sayeeda Warsi to debate Britain’s stance with the EU

August 2015 - 2nd Edition A Yorkshire MEP chaired an event attended by over 120 business people and professionals of Pakistani/Muslim heritage, to debate Britain's membership of the European Union. David Cameron's Conservative government announced that a referendum will take place in 2017. After the 2015 General elections, he certified his intention of holding this public consultation. The cross-party event hosted by Amjad Bashir MEP at Zouk restaurant in Manchester on 17th August brought together a panel consisting of Conservative MEP Dan Hannan, Baroness Sayeeda Warsi, Chief Executive of Business for Britain, Matthew Elliott, Labour MP for Bradford West, Naseem Shah and Alan Halsall - the entrepreneur who rescued Silver Cross from receivership in 2002. Vital discussions revolved around

the impact on UK-EU relations, Britain’s global power and influence, trade and economic growth, migration and domestic politics. Following the event, Amjad Bashir MEP, said: “It was fantastic to see so many people from across a variety of sectors wanting to roll up their sleeves and get actively involved within the upcoming EU referendum. “We had a host of excellent speakers this evening, and guests who attended tonight’s important and informative event thoroughly enjoyed themselves”. Feedback from the attendees, who collectively employ between 50,000 and 100,000 people in their businesses, was that they remained unsure as to whether Britain should stay in or out of the EU. The debate continues.


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Cyclists complete mammoth ride for Give a Gift

EN ROUTE: The Give a Gift cyclists completed the route between Liverpool and Burnley on Saturday, before finishing in Leeds the following day

‘We CANAL do it for charity’ By Ashley Grint ashley@asianexpress.co.uk

Eight determined fundraisers from Leeds pedalled their way to thousands of pounds for two local causes after cycling more than 150 miles in just two days. The Give a Gift team jumped on their bikes last weekend as they set off from Liverpool to Leeds in aid of Martin House Children’s Hospice and the Children’s Heart Surgery Fund at Leeds General Infirmary. Tackling all terrain down the Leeds-Liverpool canal, the group eventually made it back home on

Sunday 9th August, with 16 tired legs and just a few grazes from the mammoth route. Give a Gift Ambassador, Adil Hussain, has travelled from Vietnam to Cambodia on a bike before yet said this latest charity challenge was even harder. “In total we did 150 miles in just two days and every one of us felt it,” he said. “There were times that we found it hard to keep going, when the route was almost impassable but we knew we had to keep pushing on.

“We do these fundraisers for children at Martin House or the LGI, as well as their families. That is the thing that keeps us going and keeps us motivated all the way.” Set up in 2013 as a charitable concept, Give a Gift is targeted at getting British Muslims to ‘give back’ to their local communities, with a number of projects held throughout the year. This is the first time the cycle challenge has been held, with the eight participants, Adil, Alyas, Mohammed Ibrahim, Irfan, Junaid, Idrees, Naheem and Hamza accompanied by fellow Give a Gift Ambassador, Habib Khan. Habib said the group had shown ‘phenomenal teamwork’ over the two days and was delighted to see such ‘vital funds’ raised for the charities. “This is the first time the guys have completed the canal cycle and they did an amazing job,” he said. “The beauty of the challenge was that nearly all of the participants had never done something as big as this before yet they worked together to help each other over the line. “It was great to see so much effort, from the 15-year-olds to the 50-year-olds, and to know that they were doing this in the name of Give a Gift.”

If you would like more information about the work Give a Gift are doing, please email info@giveagift.org


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‘I have forgiven this boy’

JUSTICE: Stabbing victim, Vincent Uzomah, spoke outside court on Monday after seeing his former student handed an 11-year extended sentence

A 14-year-old Bradford student, who stabbed a teacher in the classroom before ‘boasting’ about the attack on Facebook, has been given an 11-year extended sentence at Bradford Crown Court. Vincent Uzomah told the court on Monday 10th August that he thought he was ‘going to die’ after being stabbed in the stomach by the student at Dixons Kings Academy back in June. However, following the sentencing handed out last week, the supply teacher said he had forgiven the teen and urged him to become a ‘changed person’. Speaking outside court via a prepared statement, Uzomah said: “As a Christian, I have forgiven this boy who has inflicted this trauma and pain on to me and my family. “It was, however, important for the law to run its course and for a strong message to be sent out, especially to kids of similar tendencies, that violence is never acceptable. “Our prayer for him is that he will make use of the opportunities and support that will be provided to him, to become a changed person who will make a positive contribution to society.” The teen, who cannot be named for legal reasons, mumbled a racist slur under his breath before carrying out the attack with a knife he had brought into the school on

Teen student sentenced over classroom attack the morning of 11th June. He then fled the school in the Lidget Green area of Bradford, before posting on Facebook about his actions. He wrote: “The motherf***** getin funny so I stick the blade straight in his tummy,” garnering 69 Likes. Police eventually arrested him later that same day in Bradford city centre. The 11-year sentence handed out last week is made up of six years in detention with a five-year extended licence period. Det Supt Simon Atkinson, from West Yorkshire Police, said: “This was a shocking and very serious attack on a man doing a job he loved, and he was lucky that the consequences were not more serious. “His attacker showed no concern by fleeing the scene...he worryingly showed a further lack of remorse towards his victim by boasting about it on social media. “I would like to pay tribute to the victim, Mr Uzomah, who, despite everything that happened, has been incredibly magnanimous towards his attacker.

“I hope that today's sentence will give him and his family some closure and allow them to move forward with their lives. “Such violent attacks on teaching staff in West Yorkshire are thankfully rare, and police will continue to work closely with schools to ensure they remain safe places for pupils and staff.”


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Ain’t no mountain high enough

Charity climbers conquer Wales’ highest point

CONQUERED: Curry Circle fundraisers tackled tough conditions to climb Mount Snowdon last month

A team of 40 fundraisers from Bradford travelled to Wales last month as they turned mountain climbers for one day, taking on the famous Snowdon Challenge. Raising money for local food project, the Curry Circle, the volunteers took on Wales’ highest point with representatives of all

communities joining the team. In total, the group raised over £10,000 as they completed the route up and down the 1,000-plus metre Adam Raja was one of two walk leaders on the day and is Curry Circle Manager. He said: “Each person who did the climb raised enough money to

feed 100 people. “Everyone who took part did a fantastic job and I am really proud of them for taking on this challenge for the Curry Circle. “At the top of the summit we endured 60mph winds and heavy rain. Bradfordians definitely conquered Snowdon.”

Since its launch in December 2013, by the Muslim Women’s Council, the Curry Circle has provided over 2,000 meals to some of Bradford’s most vulnerable people. As well as providing a hot twocourse meal, the project has expanded its support recently and

now includes free medical treatment and a free hairdressing service. Speaking after last month’s charity trek, Revd Jenny Ramsden, Interfaith Development Officer at Touchstone said it was a project every community could get behind. “I just wanted to say how much I enjoyed The Snowdon Challenge in spite of the appalling weather conditions,” she said. “It was great to be with such a lovely bunch of people, raising money for such a good cause.” Due to its success and positive impact on homeless individuals, families and other people in need, the Curry Circle will be expanding its service to meet demand in Keighley. It will officially be launched in Keighley on Tuesday 25th August and will be operating weekly from 7pm.


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Offices open to tackle reckless driving

LAUNCH: Amjad Malik and his family have been campaigning to raise awareness around reckless driving since his son, Saliq, was tragically killed in a car accident last year

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OPEN: Bradford East MP Imran Hussain was on hand to cut the ribbon to the new C.O.R.D offices on Wednesday

A Bradford father, who tragically lost one of his son’s in a car accident last year, has opened his own family offices in the city this week, aiming to improve awareness on road safety. Amjad Malik was joined by dozens of guests on Wednesday 12th August to officially open the ‘Consequences of Reckless Driving (C.O.R.D)’ base on Manningham Lane. In September 2014, 15-year-old Saliq Malik was tragically killed when the car he was travelling in collided into a wall and lamppost on Gilpin Street, Barkerend. In the aftermath of his death, the young teen’s family were supported by West Yorkshire Police and have been campaigning to raise awareness about safety on the city’s roads. The new offices will act as a base for the continuation of campaigning work, which Mr Malik hopes to take into schools and local institutions later this year, as well as a support network for families affected by similar tragedies. “To have the offices as a contact

By Ashley Grint ashley@asianexpress.co.uk

point is a big thing for us,” Mr Malik said. “We have funded this ourselves and our target is to educate young people about the consequences of reckless driving. “We want to get into schools, mosques, madrassas, gurdwaras, temples and churches to reach out to the youth and share with them our own experiences of losing a son in a car accident. “It is all about raising awareness amongst these young people first and foremost so we can ensure no other families suffer the same way we have.” Currently, a team of five to six volunteers are in charge of running the offices, with C.O.R.D’s first booking at the West Yorkshire Police Camp this week. An official ribbon cutting took place at the offices last week with Bradford East MP Imran Hussain on hand to show his support for the project. Speaking on the night, Mr

Hussain praised the project. “I’m here today to support Amjad Malik,” he said. “I know he has really brought this issue to the forefront and I know he will continue to be an active campaigner. As a local politician, we really want this at the forefront from the council’s perspective. “We are going to continue to support this organisation and in my new role now as an MP I will make a promise here that it is something that I am not going to forget.” Sergeant Karl Quinn of West Yorkshire Police's Major Collision Enquiry Team also spoke at the opening of the offices. “I have been dealing with accidents such as Saliq’s since 2004,” he said. “I’ve been dealing with families such as Mr Malik’s and lots of other families in and around the Bradford area who have suffered a loss due to sometimes just a momentary lapse in concentration. “Nobody sets off expecting to have an accident and nobody sets off expecting to kill somebody.”


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Walking boots at the ready A team of trekking fundraisers, who have helped raise more than £5,000 over the last two years, are preparing to lace up their boots at the end of August as they tackle the Yorkshire Three Peaks. Team Imran Khan and Team Bramhope have joined forces once again in their latest quest to raise money for the Candlelighter’s Trust and Imran Khan Cancer Appeal when they head to the Yorkshire Dales on Sunday 30th August. Scaling the giant Pen-y-Ghent, at 691 metres; before Whernside, 728m; and Ingelborough, 723m, the challenge covers 25 miles in total with an ascent over 6,000 feet. Tariq Qadeer is one volunteer who has completed the tough route on both of the last occasions and urged any ‘would-be’ fundraisers to get involved with the project. “The last two years have been amazing, and we have been very lucky with the weather to enjoy some spectacular views,” he said. “The hard work you put in pays off when you complete this challenge as you know that you have not only have achieved something wonderful but you also have the satisfaction that you have put yourself through it to raise some important funds for those most in need.”

Mr Qadeer has his own personal connections to both charities having seen family members involved with each one respectively in the past. Two elderly relatives were treated in a cancer hospital in Pakistan, funded by the Imran Khan Cancer Appeal, whilst the fundraiser’s nephew was also treated at St James’ Hospital, in Leeds. “Around six or seven years ago, my nephew, who was under two-years-old at the time, was in hospital because of a problem with his red blood cells,” he said. “It was at this point that our family first heard of Candlelighters and the amazing work they are doing. Thankfully my nephew made a full recovery but the work this charity is doing still continues and it vital that people help fund their amazing work.” The Three Peaks challenge will begin at 6.30am when the group leave Bramhope, Leeds, before starting their walk from the village of Horton, in Ribblesdale, at 8am. If you would like to get involved, or just find out more information, please contact Tariq Qadeer, via email, hipaindoo786@hotmail.com, or phone 0113 2037859.

FINISHED: Tariq Qadeer celebrates at the summit of Ingleborough after completing the Yorkshire Three peaks

Mountain climbers call for volunteers ahead of fundraising mission

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SMILE: Yeshwanth Pulijala says he hopes virtual reality technology will enable dental students to observe complex surgeries to their fullest

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An Indian-born dental surgeon, who had to overcome poor eyesight to forge his own career in the industry, is hoping to utilise the latest virtual reality technology to train future surgeons from as early as next year. Yeshwanth Pulijala, a researcher at the University of Huddersfield, aims to provide accurate visualisations of the human anatomy and surgical procedures via state-of-the-art headsets. During his own training, Mr Pulijala was confronted by the problem of poor visualisation in the operating room. This awareness of shortcomings in surgical training, alongside a passion for 3D design and technology, led him to relocate to the UK for postgraduate research that aims to make breakthroughs in the use of advanced technology to improve healthcare. First came a Master’s degree in 3D medical visualisation at University of Glasgow, where he created a mobile app called SurFace - providing patient education in corrective jaw

Innovative technology promotes ‘interactive’ learning in Huddersfield surgery. This inspired him to explore the potential of virtual reality for surgical education, using a highlyadvanced headset called Oculus Rift.

dental students. “During these sessions the trainees learn by observing the procedures in real time,” the local researcher explained. “But the problem is that not

“If you are a trainee surgeon, wearing an Oculus Rift, you will see the surgical procedure in an operating room environment and also able to ‘touch’ the skull of the patient and interact with it.” A commercial version of this is expected to be released in the first quarter of 2016, but Mr Pulijala– now studying for a PhD at the University of Huddersfield – has managed to get his hands on the developer version for his research. Learning through observation and hands-on participation are important aspects of education for surgical trainees, medical and

everybody can see what is happening. This is especially the case in crowded operating rooms where surgical trainees perform multiple duties. “Also in surgeries confined to oral and maxillofacial zone, as the structures are complex and densely enclosed in a confined space, it is very hard to observe and learn.

“Further, a reduction in surgical training hours is severely affecting the training of surgeons.” As result, he continued, that four-out-of-ten surgical trainees are not confident in performing the procedure. So he is developing a tool which helps them to virtually participate in an operation. His PhD project aims to provide trainee surgeons with close-up, unrestricted, 360-degree view of a surgical procedure that has the potential to be a massive improvement on the operating room sessions in surgical training. “If you are a trainee surgeon, wearing an Oculus Rift, you will see the surgical procedure in an operating room environment and also able to ‘touch’ the skull of the patient and interact with it,” Mr Pulijala added.


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‘Now more than ever, Britain needs to be inclusive’ My parents, who moved to Britain from Pakistan, were working class – but worked hard, with integrity and hope. The results are their children. One of my siblings is a head and neck surgeon, another a respected author and journalist. In the New Year’s Honours list, I received a CBE. I’m not saying this to brag, but to show potential. My career began as a teacher in Bradford, and I am now Deputy CEO of QED, helping others to live the best lives they can, promoting education and employment. I say this, because I was born in this country of Pakistan origin and Muslim faith; I’m an ethnic minority at a time in this country where we have been bombarded with anti-immigration rhetoric from all mainstream parties, pre-election. If any of us look about two, three or more generations back, chances are you’ll be an immigrant. Whether it be our (ex) politicians such as Ed Milliband or one of our great ‘British’ minds in history, such as Sigmund Freud. Even the great British institution– Marks and Spencers - was founded by a refugee from Belarus. There is a prevailing myth that immigrants come to exploit the welfare state. Steal ‘our’ jobs, a drain on the NHS, on benefits. And yet, British people must earn £18,600 before their non-EU spouse can move here. They must

TOGETHER: Adeeba Malik says it is important for have moved to a radically also have basic English myths to be ‘exploded’ regarding immigration in the UK different culture. Some of language skills to enter the the women I met have UK, which is where QED been here as little as a comes in. We have spent month, others for 35 the last six years working years, and both spectrums with Third Country were passionate about National women with engaging in learning support from European English, in becoming part Union Funds for of British society. integration of third What I’ve learned from country nationals, meeting all these women delivering language and is how much they’ve integration courses. embraced living in this There’s no doubt, many country, and their huge EU and non-EU desire to integrate into immigrants do jobs that British society. 100 per are low paid or low skilled. cent felt learning English The fear from some was the first step to an economists is this active social and structurally weakens economic life on their ‘British’ worker’s community. They embrace bargaining power for this opportunity, to higher wages. This is a contribute, to take charge myth too. of the health and Yes, there are those who education of their pick strawberries, because families. 60 per cent wanted to no-one else will do mundane, back- stereotypes around the women work, despite the majority being aching work for low pay. They keep immigrants I have met. In the past few weeks I’ve talked mothers of young children. They the UK’s farming industries alive to 340 women on QED integration wanted to move on to further when food producers are being programmes running across West qualifications. Many cited jobs in squeezed by the high profit health – hospitals, care homes – margins of supermarkets. There are Yorkshire that teach English others in schools – and others also those who become our nurses, language and help equip women, who have come here to marry. teachers, and shop-keepers, wanted to set up their own These are women from Pakistan, alongside those who are businesses. the Middle East, Bangladesh, entrepreneurial and bring big A burden to society? If you’ve Africa, India…all of these women business, and employment. ever lost a loved one in an NHS have left what they knew about life hospital, you probably would have Whatever your views on immigration, it is as old as the hills behind to live with their husbands. met one of these women, working a They’ve left their parents, siblings, in our British Isles. I want to night shift, looking after that most culture, familiarity and love. They explode a few myths, and precious of things – whether it be

end-of-life care for our elderly relatives, or on the maternity ward. Many of the women I spoke to are inspirational. They knew the value of life here. The freedom, the legal structure of gender equality, they didn’t enjoy in their home countries. The opportunity. What QED’s classes have given many – even those 40 per cent who were well qualified in their home countries – was confidence. To speak English with their children, born here, and to engage with their teachers. To make doctors’ appointments, to learn to drive, be independent regardless of their husbands. And to pursue careers, whether it be as nurses or entrepreneurs. Anti-immigration rhetoric has done much damage to our social fabric, and lets down the thousands of migrants, who have settled in Britain and chosen to make a life here. Hope and compassion are the greatest benefit to our communities. I hope these women’s stories show we shouldn’t choose exclusion and fear, or think of third-class citizenship. But hope. Britain’s economy, and culture has always thrived from being open and inclusive, with values of fairness and freedom. Now, more than ever, we need to be inclusive. It’s our connection to our neighbours and communities that give value and strength.


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Your chance to become a LORD Exquisite registration plate ‘L2ORD’ up for sale

A car says a lot about a person yet it is the registration plate that defines them. With so many prestige motors on the road, it seems the only way to stand out from the crowd today is through private plates. From celebrities to esteemed business officials, the rarer the plates the more impressive the individual and if you have the stature of a Lord, then you could be in luck. The plate L2ORD is now available after Asian Express Managing Director, Mr Nadim Hanif, successfully purchased the exquisite design from an English Lord. Mr Hanif, a long term business associate of the Lord, who wishes to remain anonymous, was able to

acquire the plates as part of an asset clearout and is now looking to sell them on to their ‘rightful owner’. The perfect addition to a Rolls Royce, Bentley or prestige vehicle, there are no other plates quite like them on the road and are literally fit for royalty. Offers over £50,000 will be considered and can be made directly to Mr Hanif via 07519 090000 where terms can be discussed and meetings arranged. If you are a true lord and want others to know it too, then these are the plates for you.

AVAILABLE: A once in a lifetime opportunity has arisen to own the L2ORD registration plate


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Dr Aneesha Advice Column Every few weeks we are asking readers to pose common questions or concerns regarding cosmetic treatments to our specialist Dr Aneesha, Medical Director at Skyn doctor. Today's question is: I have recently noticed increased lines around my lips and deep lines going from the sides of my nose to the corners of my mouth. I have been told by a friend a facial filler may help. Please could you provide me with further information? Facial or Dermal fillers are gels that can be used to smooth out unwanted facial wrinkles and deep lines, creating a plump, youthful appearance. Treatment with fillers produces results that are visible immediately, and can last for roughly 6-9 months. At Skyn Doctor, we offer a range of anti-wrinkle treatments and our dermal fillers have proven to be particularly effective in treating deep lines and wrinkles that come with age. I also find this treatment one of the most rewarding to carry out as the effects are instant and patients leave the clinic

highly satisfied with the results. What gels are used as facial fillers? There are many different dermal filler gels available. At Skyn Doctor clinic, we always use Juvéderm®, a natural hyaluronic gel that leads the market and importantly complies with European standards and regulations. What areas can be treated? • Nasal bridge between nose and lips • Nasolabial folds at the sides of the mouth produced by smiling • Marionette lines under the mouth • Lips (to enhance, volumise and define) • Chin • Cheeks Does it hurt? Before injecting the dermal filler gel, the doctor applies a local anaesthetic cream to numb the area in question. This makes the procedure

Dr Aneesha's mentioned treatment Dermal Filler from £150.00

virtually painless. Are there any side effects dermal fillers? Some patients notice mild discomfort and swelling after receiving the facial filler treatment, but this is temporary and usually settles afterwards. It is important to ensure treatment is carried out by appropriately trained medical experts to avoid the more serious complications such as infections, allergic reactions. At our Skyn Doctor clinic all treatments are carried out in clean, sterile environment that minimises the risks of such complications occurring. Is the treatment reversible? Yes, our dermal filler treatment is fully reversible. Book your free consultation at Skyn Doctor clinic now and learn how we can use Dermal Filler to help you retain that youthful appearance. Our ethos is “less is more” and we always strive to ensure your end-result not only looks subtle but compliments your natural features.

To ask Dr Aneesha a question, email her at DrAneesha@skyndoctor.co.uk or visit www.skyndoctor.co.uk

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Fun run in the sun RUN: Runners prepare to set off at last year’s Give a Gift 5k challenge, raising funds for Martin House Children’s Hospice and the Children’s heart Surgery Fund

Give a Gift hits Roundhay for annual 5k

INCLUSIVE: Runners and walkers of all ages and abilities are invited to attend the Give a Gift run in Roundhay Park later this month

By Ashley Grint ashley@asianexpress.co.uk

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Following on from the success of last year’s Give a Gift 5k run and walk, the annual fundraiser is set to return to Roundhay Park later this month as running shoes are once again dusted off for charity. Over £8,000 has been raised from the event over the past two years, with all funds going towards local causes - the Children’s Heart Surgery Fund at Leeds General Infirmary and Martin House Children’s Hospice. This year, whether you are an avid runner, or just want to enjoy a stroll around the picturesque park, the Give a Gift team are challenging all abilities to come down and enjoy an action packed day of fundraising. Hoping to smash previous records, Habib Khan, Give a Gift Ambassador, said he was looking forward to welcoming this year’s fundraisers and thanked them in advance for their attendance. “This is the third year that we have staged the run and we are really looking forward to seeing our amazing fundraisers challenge themselves once again for these two amazing causes,” he said. “This year the run returns and is once again open to every person of every age and ability. This is a great opportunity to have an amazing day out with the whole family, and help out some local charities who need our support.” As with previous years, fun

“This year the run returns and is once again open to every person of every age and ability. This is a great opportunity to have an amazing day out with the whole family, and help out some local charities who need our support.” activities will once again be put on for children on the day whilst free refreshments and goodie bags will greet walkers, joggers and runners as they take a step towards helping the charities. Former England Rugby international, Ikram Butt, said it is a great initiative to join in with after taking part previously. “I did the run last year and it was a great day where hundreds of people came out to join in with

the fundraising efforts,” he said. “I hope this year will be even bigger and better than that and look forward to another great day at Roundhay Park.” The run begins at 10.30am on Sunday 30th August at Leeds’ Roundhay Park and is open to all abilities. Register now at www.giveagift5krun.com or call 01132 773 330, email info@giveagift.orf.uk


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Thousands flock to station open day ENTERTAINING: Dancers were on hand to entertain the crowds who toured the Halifax Police Station last weekend

Residents turnout to meet their local force More than 5,000 people flocked to Halifax Police Station last weekend as officers threw open their doors to visitors, for their second successful open day. Following the success of the inaugural event last August, a high turnout was expected by organisers for the Sunday 9th August event. However, as more and more people turned up throughout the day, organisers say they were delighted to see a record number head down for a look behind the scenes and to experience life at the Richmond Close site. As many as 2,000 people had a look inside the police station itself, with a

snaking queue even formed as demand continued to grow. Meanwhile, crowds were entertained by Total Awareness Promotions and acts included an Indian Dance Workshop with Annapurna Dance, Bazzmatazz Dance Studio, the West Yorkshire Police Band and even the occasional dancing police officer. Commander, Chief District Superintendent Dickie Whitehead said: “It was brilliant to have so many people come and see us at the weekend, the aim of the day was to meet with members of the public and show them all of the work that goes into policing the District. “I would like to thank all the officers

and staff that worked tirelessly to pull together another fantastic event, along with all the partner agencies and volunteers who were all there on the day facilitating the numerous activities and stalls, “The biggest thank you of all goes out to the community of Calderdale who once again turned up in their thousands to see what goes on behind the scenes of our district nervecentre and show their support to our dedicated team who work 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to make the district a safe place to live, work and bring up families.”

HANDS-ON: Demonstrations were held by officers to give children of all ages a chance to tryout their equipment


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Pedal Power Nine-year-old completes cycling challenge for charity A determined fundraiser battled through horrendous weather conditions last weekend to complete a near 20-mile bike ride for charity, and she’s only nine-years-old. Khadija Sarwar, from Methley, set herself a sponsorship challenge in aid of the international charity, Orphans in Needs, after CHALLENGING: The young fundraiser had to ride through downpours of rain last weekend along the Leeds-Liverpool Canal FUNDRAISER: Khadija Sarwar completed the 18.6 mile route from her Methley home to Leeds’ Royal Armouries Museum and back in aid of the charity, Orphans in Need

attending a seminar with her mother earlier in the month. After opting to complete a mammoth cycle as her fundraiser-of-choice, the Wakefield Girl’s School pupil undertook the challenging ride on Saturday 1st August. Riding from her home to the Royal Armouries Museum in Leeds – and back again, Khadija was joined along the long route down the LeedsLiverpool canal by her mother and father – Aneeka and Adeel. Totalling 18.6 miles, the young fundraiser rounded the distance up to a perfect 20 miles by completing some laps

of her neighbourhood last weekend. “I really enjoyed it even though there was so much rain,” she said. “I got to splash through all the puddles and it was that wet, I thought I saw a fish on the path.” She added: “I decided to do the bike ride after going to a meeting with my mum about Orphans in Need. “I kept telling her ways of fundraising and then when we were asked, ‘who will make a pledge?’ my mum put my hand up as well as hers. “I thought I would raise less than £200 from the bike ride so I was very happy when I heard how much I had raised.” Despite pledging to raise £350, Khadija has so far seen just short of £900 donated to her JustGiving Page. Aneeka said she was ‘incredibly proud’ of her daughter’s efforts. “We are really proud of everything Khadija has done because this whole event was her idea,” she said. “The money raised will go towards building a children’s centre in Kashmir (Pakistan) and I was so impressed with her determination and caring attitude. “Since the ride, Khadija’s confidence has grown and she has just shown how caring and compassionate she really is.”

If you would like to sponsor Khadija please visit www.justgiving.com/Khadijah-Sarwar1/


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Event to tackle Female Genital Mutilation a success A West Yorkshire-wide partnership event to help tackle Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) has been hailed a success. The event was organised by the West Yorkshire Police and Crime Commissioner, Mark BurnsWilliamson, and was the first time that statutory and community partners from across the county had come together to discuss work to prevent FGM and how best to support victims. The event consisted of statutory and voluntary agencies and partners from across the county and beyond, including the police, Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), local government, NHS and many from the Third Sector. During the event a range of people spoke out and the performance of the

Leeds Young Authors, who staged a moving input around FGM, had a huge impact. They were brought to the event by the charity Black Health Initiative. Mark Burns-Williamson, said: "FGM is a terrible crime and the excellent and moving performance by Leeds Young Authors really helped to concentrate people's minds on what victims go through. "I would also like to thank everyone else who played their part during the day and helped to make sure the event was a great success. It has helped to not only raise awareness of the issue but also saw various different organisations coming together and sharing their knowledge and expertise. Only by working together can we make a real difference.

"FGM is a crime and one that is thought to be very much under reported nationwide. Raising awareness of the issue is an important aspect in helping to prevent it and to understand the true scale and nature of it. "The partnership event was to help raise awareness but to also see what we can all do and where we can work together - only by working together can we make a real difference and aim to educate as many people as possible about it. Assistant Chief Constable Russ Foster of West Yorkshire Police, said: "It is vital that events such as this highlight and raise awareness of this illegal practice which is totally unacceptable and that partners do everything they can to tackle it."

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£1 a day can provide a child with food, clothing, medication, education & shelter

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Post-mortem law change ‘FINALLY’ arrives

JUSTICE: Ramzan Mohayuddin (front) and Mohammed Ilyas have been campaigning for a change in the law regarding invasive post mortems since each losing a child around five years ago

Landmark ruling ensures coroners must send bodies for scans rather than autopsies if religion demands

Two Bradford fathers, who each suffered the tragic loss of their children just over five years ago, were celebrating last month after a landmark High Court ruling. On Tuesday 28th July, new legislation was put into place in the UK which ensures coroners must send bodies for scans or blood tests rather than carry out invasive autopsies if the deceased's religion demands the corpse must stay intact. Viewed as a huge victory for the rights of Jews and Muslims, whose faiths dictate bodies must not be ‘desecrated’ with the removal of organs whenever possible, the news was warmly welcomed by campaigners. Ramzan Mohayuddin, from Heckmondwike, has been campaigning for a change in the law since his 18-year-old son, Saad, passed away on Christmas Day 2008. As a Muslim, he wanted his son’s body to remain intact and so worked with the Jewish community and the Bolton Council of Mosques to ensure Saad’s body was sent for an MRI scan in Manchester. Paying for the scan himself, results came back with no cause of death and so the coroner ordered for the invasive post mortem to be carried out. Once again, nothing was found and Saad’s death was put down to natural causes. Upset at the distress of seeing his son’s corpse undergo the ‘barbaric act of an intrusive post mortem’, Mr Mohayuddin established the Saad Foundation, along with his family and local community, which works on promoting imaging as a less

intrusive means of determining a cause of death. Speaking after the High Court ruling last week, he said the law change had been a long time coming. “75 to 80 per cent of the time, imaging will establish a cause of death,” he said. “This ruling is exactly what families like ours have been waiting for and gives a real nudge of reality to coroners that there has to be alternatives to post mortems. “Families now have the choice following the death of their relatives, with CT scanning favourable for Muslims and Jews. “On the balance of probability, the cause of death will likely be determined after a scan.” In Bradford, the city’s Digital Autopsy facility, launched last year, now provides families with a choice of a non-invasive technique that ‘swaps a scalpel for a scanner’. Created by Malaysian firm,

iGene, the imaging process is one of many new sites recently established across the UK. Mohammed Ilyas is another father from Bradford who lost his three-month-old son five years ago due to an enlarged heart. He hailed last month’s High Court ruling as a ‘historic victory’ which would help many families. “As a Muslim, we are taught that as the body comes into the world, it has to go back the same way,” he explained. “Obviously there are times that scanning is not possible and a post-mortem is needed but the fact we now have the legal right to opt for imaging is fantastic news. “Now people must be made aware that there are facilities out there which can be used as an alternative to intrusive post mortems.” The non-invasive scans are now available as an alternative to the post-mortems yet must be funded on behalf of the deceased.


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Robbers target shopkeeper with claw hammer Fraudster jailed

A fraudster from Huddersfield, who was found to have illegally earned more than £200,000 through false documents earlier this year, has been jailed for three years. It was during a routine smoking regulations check by council officers at the Arabian Lounge Shisha Bar in the town centre, that Abdul Farooq was found in the possession of numerous items of false paperwork. Driving licenses in false names were found on site and after further investigations were carried out, it was revealed that over £200,000 had been dishonestly laundered through a couple’s bank accounts. He appeared at Leeds Crown Court last week where he admitted making an untrue statement to obtain a passport, four offences of fraud and concealing the proceeds of criminal conduct.

West Yorkshire Police have issued images of a man they want to speak to in connection with an armed robbery in a convenience store in Leeds. Leeds District CID would like to speak to anyone who has information about the incident which took place at the Farnley Convenience Store on Tong Approach on Wednesday 12th August. It took place at about 4.13pm after two men pulled up outside the store on a scooter. One, who was wearing a white and blue helmet, entered the store and threatened the 59-year-old male shopkeeper inside with a claw hammer while demanding money. He then grabbed the victim's mobile phone before fleeing after the 59-year-old resisted. The man who entered the store was described as Asian, 5 ft 10ins in height with a long thin nose, wearing a helmet with a missing visor. The second man was wearing dark clothing and a dark coloured helmet. DC Craig Rika of Leeds District CID, said: “We are appealing for witnesses to what would clearly have been a frightening incident for staff inside the shop. “I would ask anyone who saw two men pull up outside the store on a scooter or flee following the offence or who can help identify the offenders to contact myself Leeds District CID on 101. “Information can also be given to the independent Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111.”

ATTACK: Images of the attack were captured on the store’s CCTV and police are now appealing for help in identifying the robbers


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‘Hero’ risks life to save baby from house fire A Bradford man has been hailed a ‘hero’ by his neighbours after rescuing a three-month old baby from a burning house fire. 22-year-old Aamir Nawaz, from Manningham, had been dropped off outside his sister’s house, on Durham Road, last month when he heard screams for help. Running down the street with takeaway in hand, the have-a-go hero arrived at his neighbour’s door where she was stood with two children. Her husband was out working at the time and their youngest child was trapped inside the home which had been set ablaze. Courageously, Aamir dropped his takeaway, lifted his jumper over his head and made his way upstairs in the smoke-filled house. “There was black smoke everywhere,” he explained. “I ran up the stairs and started looking for the child. “Eventually I kicked down the bedroom door and the baby was lying in a cot. There was smoke in the room but the window had

been left open a bit which must have helped. “I scooped the child up in my arms under my jumper and just concentrated on making it back downstairs without breathing in too much smoke.” Aamir made it outside with child in hand, at which time the fire service had just turned up. He was commended for his efforts by neighbours and firefighters whilst the baby’s family hailed him a ‘hero’ for his bravery. Three children were taken to the Bradford Royal Infirmary for treatment for smoke inhalation on the night, and were discharged the next day. “In that situation you don’t really think about yourself, just the fact that there is a child who needs help,” Aamir added. “In Islam, we are told that we must help our neighbours. I have been brought up to respect this belief and the only thing going through my head at that point was that this baby needs rescuing. “I knew it would be a risk but as

soon as I was inside, I knew what I had to do.” Aamir received an official commendation from his local Masjid Umar as well as from the West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue. Aldene Woodward, watch commander at Fairweather Green, explained how the blaze had caused significant damage. “It was quite bad,” she said. “The family has been displaced now. “The cause of the fire is being investigated by the fire investigation team and the police. “A significant amount of smoke spread around the house, it caused enough damage that the family wouldn't have been able to stay in the house. We called a Red Cross crisis team to help with the family. “We will be checking on all properties in that area, offering fire safety advice and making sure all homes have working smoke alarms.”

HERO: Aamir Nawaz rescued a baby from a burning house after hearing calls for help upon returning home from football training

Commendations for civil servant who tackled serious blaze

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Parking charges increase

Music in Leeds online

Music-lovers in Leeds will get a special backstage pass thanks to three short films that give a rare, behind-the-scenes look at the local gig circuit. With thousands of fans set to flock to Leeds Fest later this month, Leeds Museums and Galleries are launching the special online exhibition to celebrate the hard work of the city’s many bands and venues. Recorded predominantly in 2013, the films focus on The Brudenell Social Club in Headingley, Eiger Studios in Hunslet and The Cockpit in Leeds city centre- three venues that have acted as a springboard for several groups and artists who have since gone on to play at the annual Bramham Park spectacular. The online exhibition begins on 24th August and music-lovers can watch all three films via ‘Music in Leeds’ YouTube channel.

New parking charges will soon be introduced at the Bradford Royal Infirmary and St Luke’s Hospital with increases of up to 75 per cent on previous fees. Announced last week, Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust says the price hike will be the first in 11 years and will come into effect later this month. Current prices are set at £2 for up to three hours and £5 for up to 24 hours. These tariffs will be broadened when the new prices come in, meaning some visitors could see themselves saving up to 30 per cent whilst others will be forced to pay more. Paul Featherstone, Director of Estates and Facilities at the Trust said the greater ‘flexibility in paying’ will be beneficial for many. “We continue to meet – and beat – all the principles laid down by the Department of Health in its best practice guidelines for hospital car parking charges introduced last year,” he said. “All our hospitals’ car parks are self-funding, ensuring we don’t have to divert money away from frontline services and patient care for their maintenance, improvements and security patrols. “We are determined to keep

car parking charges as low as possible and this is the first time since May 2004 that rising costs and growing pressure to create extra parking has forced us to increase them. “In this extended passage of time, the cumulative rate of inflation has been around 30 per cent and this has added significantly to our costs, which go up year-on-year.” New charges will mean visitors of up to two hours will be charged £2.50, for a three-hour ticket it will be £3.50, up to four hours is £4.50, up to five hours is £5.50, and for between five and 10 hours, £8 will be charged. The Foundation Trust has pledged to retain reduced rates for people frequently attending outpatient clinics and those visiting relatives who are gravely ill or having an extended stay in hospital. The Foundation Trust say they researched car parking tariffs at seven other hospitals in Yorkshire and Greater Manchester before deciding on the new structure and aligning it with the average level of charges. There will also be a modest increase to the cost of staff car parking permits from September following staff consultation – the first increase in more than a decade for the vast majority of employees.

Bradford hospitals put up prices of parking for first time in 11 years

COSTLY: Parking at the Bradford Royal Infirmary could soon be up to 75 per cent more expensive than it is now

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STAR: Yousef Naseer was cast as the prominent character ‘Ghani’ for the new series of Tyrant, after just one audition

Future of film Young Bradford actor lands starring role in American hit series


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TEACHING: Stacey Burrows, owner at Articulate, told the young actor to audition for the part back in March after just two months of acting classes

“I love boxing and that was an entertaining scene.” From the makers of Homeland and 24, Tyrant - which stars Adam Rayner and Jennifer Finnigan, follows an unassuming American family who have been drawn into the workings of a turbulent Middle Eastern nation. After a successful first series, the second series is set to hit UK television screens early next year. Yousef will make his on-screen debut in the upcoming series, and his father, Mohammed, adds that the experience of acting on such a ‘huge’ show is invaluable for his son. “We are obviously really proud of Yousef and it is good to see him get that experience on screen at such a young age,” he said. “It has been a fantastic opportunity. “Filming in Budapest was amazing for him. He was treated like a real star and was brilliant in his role. “We’re really grateful to Yousef’s drama school, Articulate, because without them, this role would never have presented itself, and also to Yousef’s school who allowed him to attend the filming.” Stacey Burrows, owner at Articulate Speech, Drama & Casting, asked Yousef to attend the auditions in March this year. She believed he had the ability to land the part but was taken aback when he was offered the role after just one audition. “Yousef is a wonderful young actor and the role was very well deserved,” she said. “In recent years Bradford is producing some fantastic young actors that have been heading out into the professional world at very young ages. “In the past six months alone, our children have filmed for several fantastic projects in and out of Bradford.” She added: “I am really very excited by the recent success Bradford children and Bradford as a location are having - it's really impressive.”

Whilst many aspiring actors spend their entire lives trying to break into the film industry, one nine-year-old from Bradford has already achieved just that. Yousef Naseer, from Manningham, was flown out to Budapest last month to conclude filming on the US hit television series – Tyrant: Season two, of which he appears across five episodes. After only attending drama classes for two months, the young Iqra Academy pupil was offered the role of ‘Ghani’ – a Bedouin, Arab child, by lead casting directors in London following his first audition. Yousef was then flown out to Hungary, for filming in April where he spent two-and-ahalf weeks on set. A shorter three-day trip was also completed last month as filming was wrapped up. Speaking about the experience, Yousef says he couldn’t quite believe it when he was offered the part and explained some of his most memorable moments on set. “I had a lot of fun and everyone who I worked with were really friendly,” he said. “Throughout the trip we were put up in five-star hotels, chauffeured to different filming locations, had one-to-one school tuition so I didn't fall behind in school, and even had my own caravan trailer to chill in. “Most importantly I got to do what I love most: acting with some sensational British and American actors.” Adding what his favourite part in the filming was, he added: “There is one scene FAMILY: Yousef’s supportive parents – Mohammed where I have to punch one of my brothers on Naseer and Loukia Giannoula, flew out with their son screen which was fun to do. for the second spell of filming in Budapest

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Local

August 2015 - 2nd Edition

Bradford’s Big Ride Hundreds of cyclists pulled up in Bradford city centre last week as a mass bike ride was organised to raise awareness and funds for those most vulnerable in Gaza. As part of the Scotland to London ‘Big Ride’ event, the West Yorkshire contingent of riders joined up with their counterparts from across the north of England on Tuesday 4th August to embark on the nine day route to the capital. The brainchild of Dermot MacWard, a keen adventure cyclist and founder of Redspokes, he has recruited a team of volunteers to help the drive to raise £50,000 for the Middle Eastern Children’s Alliance. Cyclists as young as 15 through to 80 years of age are taking part in the project aimed at raising funds for children traumatised by the 2014 bombardments in Gaza. Arshad Ali was the chief organiser of the event in Bradford and has been a long time campaigner for Palestine. He joined the ‘two wheel convoy’ on Tuesday as it passed through the city and explained why he wanted to get involved. “As a proud Bradfordian of Kashmiri descent myself, I am only too aware that like Kashmir, Palestine and it's people have suffered for many decades,” he said.

WELCOMED: Big Ride organiser, Dermot MacWard, spoke about the project with residents in Bradford including Bradford West MP, Naz Shah

Cyclists hop on their bikes for Gaza

“I very much looked forward to joining the convoy of bikes with Team Bradford and getting on my bike after many a moon. I'm not sure how far I will get but if I can make it to Sheffield I will be most pleased.” He added: “Personally it’s going to be a great challenge for me. It’s an amazing opportunity to do such a ride, a once in a life time opportunity. It’ll be great to push myself and see if I can do it. I can’t wait to get on my bike and find out what I've let myself in for.” After spending the night camping in Bradford, the group were off on the next section of their journey as they headed to Sheffield. In total, 435 miles was covered across the whole route before it concluded in the capital on Sunday 9th August. The Big Ride event was supported by Gaza Director of MECA, Dr Mona El Farra, who herself lost nine members of her extended family in an Israeli airstrike during the 2014 massacre of Palestinian civilians. She commented: “The Big Ride is breaking barriers that separate human beings who should be equal regardless of race, colour or religion. “We dream of a day when we can welcome cyclists in a free Palestine to enjoy the beauty of our country that has been devastated by long decades of Israeli occupation, disposition, and annihilation.”


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Business

Your National and Local Business Round-up

Business news

ITC Introducing VelocitySuperfast Connectivity

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ccess to the internet has become a fundamental part of every business’ day-to-day operations, whether it be via a computer, tablet, telephone or use of devices such as PDQ machines to take payments. With that said, a slow connection can hamper your business’ efficiency and also allows competitors to edge ahead of you in ever-more competitive markets. Thankfully for companies across the UK, ITC are on hand to provide superfast broadband and give your business the connectivity you demand. One of the government’s leading internet service providers nationally for superfast broadband on the Connection Vouchers Scheme, ITC have connected organisations nationally under their ‘velocity’ package and now it is your turn. You may be thinking ‘Why choose ITC’? The answer is simple: With a dedicated support

network that is second to none, clients can rely on around the clock maintenance, alongside bespoke packages which can be tailored to meet your organisations requirements. Whether it is nine-to-five, Monday-to-Friday, or 24/7, 365 days a year, ITC are just a phone call away to meet your service requirements.

communications team but with a much smaller price tag.” He added: “A fast internet connection is so often the backbone to a business’ success and by opting to use ITC as your internet service provider, you have a partner you can always rely on.” Never one to compromise on reliability or quality, a range of

“A fast internet connection is so often the backbone to a business’ success and by opting to use ITC as your internet service provider, you have a partner you can always rely on.” ITC Managing Director, Nasar Hussain, explained that setting the business apart from the rest means ensuring peace of mind for every customer. “Rather than waste your valuable time on your telecommunications, we think it makes sense to hand that over to us, the experts, while you focus on your core business,” he said. “That way, you get all the benefits of an in-house

different connectivity packages are available to suit every customer’s usage and budget, with some clients even able to access superfast broadband for free. Under the

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government’s Connection Vouchers: Superfast Broadband’ scheme, grants can be claimed to fund the installation of your new connection, but hurry, as the promotion is likely to end in the next couple of months. Superfast velocity is much faster and more reliable than standard broadband, allowing you to utilise the internet’s full range of services, all at

much higher speeds - and all at the same time. So, whether it is office telephone systems, mobile solutions or broadband that your business requires, get in touch with the experts at ITC today and simplify your telecommunications.

Find out more by visiting: www.clickitc.co.uk/products-services/superconnected-cities Tel: 0845 652 0450


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Business

August 2015 - 2nd Edition

The (Mouse) Empire strikes back

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UK company has been forced to give up seven domain names using the words “Star Wars”, following action by Lucasfilm which is owned by media giant, Disney. Abscissa.com Limited, a fancy dress retailer from Berkshire, registered two of the addresses –starwars.co.uk and starwars.co.uk – in 2003 after Lucasfilm, the production company behind the Star Wars franchise, had allowed the registration of the starwars.co.uk domain name to lapse. In 2014, Abscissa.com registered five further domain names including: • starwars.uk • star-wars.uk • star-warsco.uk • star-warsco.co.uk • starwarsco.co.uk Abscissa.com used the domains for 10 years as a means of directing web users to its Jokers Masquerade website, where it sold Star Wars costumes and merchandise. Lucasfilm was bought by the Disney Corporation for $4.1bn (£2.6bn) in 2012. The seventh film in the franchise called The Force Awakens is scheduled for release in December of this year. The film is one of the most anticipated films of recent times and the trailers for it have generated an unprecedented level of interest on the internet. Lucasfilm demanded that Abscissa.com surrender all of the domain names to it but Abscissa.com refused and instead offered to transfer to Lucasfilm the starwars.uk domain on the condition that they could continue to use the starwars.co.uk and starwars.co.uk domains to sell Star Wars branded merchandise. However, Lucasfilm rejected the offer and instead referred the matter to Nominet, the company which manages .uk domain names in the UK. Lucasfilm lodged a complaint with Nominet’s Dispute Resolution Service arguing that the domain names would cause confusion amongst internet users. Lucasfilm pointed out that it had five UK Trademarks and one Community Trademark which had been registered between 1984 and 2001 all containing the words “Star Wars”. Lucasfilm said that although Abscissa.com had legally acquired all of the Star Wars domain names, it claimed that Abscissa.com was using those domains to attract users to its website to sell its goods and that Abscissa.com had chosen to register those particular domain names in order to benefit from the “pulling power” of Lucasfilm’s Star Wars trademark and therefore was clearly taking advantage of that trademark for financial gain. Abscissa.com argued that it had purchased the starwars.co.uk domain name in 2005 from a third party and that Lucasfilm who had owned the registration to star-wars.co.uk in 2001 but had given its rights up later that year. It therefore contended that Lucasfilm must have been aware of the domain names and the long delay in bringing this case suggested that it did not consider them to be important.

However, Nominet said that the delay in bringing the complaint had no bearing on the case as, unlike normal court proceedings, limitation periods did not apply to the Nominet Dispute Resolution Procedure. Nominet concluded that Abscissa.com’s use of the domain names had taken unfair advantage of or had been unfairly detrimental to Lucasfilm’s rights and that its use of the domain names had caused initial interest confusion which was considered to be an abusive registration in each case. Steve Ormand, the Nominate Expert hearing the case stated that: “The name Star Wars cannot refer to anyone else other than the Complainant [Lucasfilm] it is a unique term coined by the Complainant for the purposes of a science fiction filmed released in 1977 and enhanced as further films have been released. It is highly likely in my view that any user searching for Star Wars and arriving at the Respondent’s [Abscissa.com] website will have suffered initial interest confusion and falsely inferred a commercial connection with the Complainant.” Nominet therefore ruled in favour of Lucasfilm and directed that Abscissa.com transfer all of the domain names to Lucasfilm. However, this may not be the end of the matter as Abscissa.com has a right of appeal under the Nominate Dispute Resolution Procedure which it has just exercised in the past few days. The appeal will be heard before a three person panel who will review the original decision. So there may yet be a Return of The Jedi in this real life Star Wars saga. This case is a good example of a brand owner utilising Nominet’s Dispute Resolution Service procedure to acquire registered domain names from imitators without incurring the expense of pursuing court proceedings for trademark infringement. At Blacks, we can assist you with the registration of intellectual property rights and the protection of those rights. Please contact Luke Patel on 0113 227 9316 or by email at “LPatel@LawBlacks.com”.

Please contact Luke Patel on 0113 227 9316 or by email at LPatel@LawBlacks.com

Royal Taj A buffet experience fit for Kings and Queens

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hether you want a selection of famous Indian dishes, some mouthwatering Chinese food, or a taste of Italian, Bradford’s Royal Taj restaurant has something to please your palette. Since officially opening their doors just six weeks ago, the iconic venue on Manningham Lane has welcomed in hundreds of visitors, eager to try out the latest exciting menu in the city. Over 50 dishes are freshly prepared every night for the popular buffet which is redefining the expectations for diners, hoping to enjoy a selection of dishes. Using authentic spices and recipes, the team of expert chefs have

developed a menu which is unparalleled for taste amongst the buffet industry, making Royal Taj a ‘must try’ for all food enthusiasts. Abid Ali is the director at Royal Taj and after successfully establishing a restaurant business in Blackpool, he says he wanted to bring a new flavour to Bradford’s dining scene. “Royal Taj is regal in name and regal in nature,” he said. “Every dish we offer here has been cooked up using the finest ingredients and spices, ensuring taste is locked in and enjoyed by every visitor. “Never has a buffet provided such high quality options in Bradford before

38-52 Manningham Lane, Bradford, BD1 3EA, Tel: 01274 500 718 Email: info@royaltaj.co.uk Opening times: Mon to Sun: 5pm - 11pm

and I look forward to serving the local community.” Away from the famed buffet, Royal Taj also offer up sumptuous dishes with their famed Kunna Gosht an option which must be tasted to be appreciated. Steamed lamb is slowly cooked throughout the day, creating a juicy tenderness that is as packed with flavour as it is irresistible. “There is so much more to our menu than our buffet,” Mr Ali added. “From our homemade Royal Taj curry, to chicken tikka masala, we have something for every diner.” With a total seating capacity of 800, Royal Taj is one of the most spacious, contemporary environments in Bradford, perfect for weddings or special celebrations. Full wedding packages are available from the restaurant’s catering team, providing everything from the food on guests’ plates, to the place cards and waiting staff. Visit Royal Taj today and receive 30 per cent off your bill, and enjoy a dining experience fit for royalty.


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August 2015 - 2nd Edition

Business

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La Fiamma A true taste of Italy

Prity’s Hair, Beauty and Spa F

or over ten years, Prity’s Hair and Beauty Salon has been at the forefront of the beauty industry, developing a revolutionary product line whilst delivering skincare treatments to clients from across the country. Today, the brand is one of the most recognised in the city with the everexpansive range of 100% natural skincare products, continuing to lead the business’ rapid growth. The chemical free products, which are 100% vegan and not tested on animals, can cater for every skin type and help every customer achieve that flawless finish they deserve. Take the innovative Whitening Cream for example. Developed by founder Prity Farooq, the smooth depigmenting cream will inhibit the development of dark spots and helps to enhance the

fairness of skin with continuous use. Likewise, the Princess Luxury Rose Scrub, also exclusively sold via Prity’s, can be the perfect treatment for all skin types, rejuvenating the skin and bringing back your natural glow. “Our range of products continues to expand every year as we aim to ensure every client’s needs can be fulfilled by the Prity’s brand,” Ms Farooq explained. “It is more than just skincare; it is a passion of mine. Since setting up the first salon in 2004, the aim has been to create a new level of beauty treatments in the city and I just want to say thank you to all our clients who continue to feel pampered at Prity’s.” Latest developments at Prity’s flagship Legrams Lane site will see the opening of a

new Turkish bath in coming weeks, offering a whole new service in Bradford. From spa body treatments such as steam rooms and ayurvedic massages, the new extension will transport visitors to traditional bath houses in Turkey for a most memorable experience. Keep up to date with all the latest Prity news by visiting the official Facebook page or call in today to give your skin the care it so rightfully deserves.

14 Legrams Lane, Bradford BD7 1ND Tel: 01274 30 70 40 Web: www.prityskincare.com Opening times: Mon-Sat: 10am-7pm Sun: 11am-6pm

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ood-lovers in Leeds can now experience a true taste of Italy on their doorstep as La Fiamma brings an exciting new menu to the heart of the city. The contemporary new restaurant officially opened its doors for the first time last week, after months of renovations to transform what were empty premises into a little corner of Italian perfection. Specialising in all your Italian favourites, from handmade pizzas cooked up inside their traditional wood burning oven, to delectable pasta dishes, there is something to tempt every food enthusiast on the carefully crafted menu. From the base to the sauces, every pizza is freshly prepared by the La Fiamma chefs, with only HMCapproved meat going into every dish. Perhaps you don’t fancy a pizza or a signature pasta dish? No problem. An array of mouth-watering steaks can also be cooked up to your liking, with succulent Tomahawk, Fillet, T-Bone and Rib-eye all available for diners. The owners of La Fiamma say they want to raise the standard of Italian dining in the city. “Everything we are trying to achieve here is dependent upon our commitment to provide a truly Italian experience from the moment you set foot through the doors,” they said. “From our experienced Italian head chef, to the carefully crafted menu and of course our trademark pizza oven, La

Fiamma will bring a new taste to this area of Leeds. “Why not try one of our hand-made pizzas, cooked to perfection inside our wood burning oven, and served up with a topping of your choices – the real La Fiamma way.” Complimenting the tempting menu is a setting which transports you from the

streets of Leeds to the cobbles of Italy. Traditional wooden decor creates a relaxing, foreign atmosphere with a European vibe, providing you and your fellow diners with a unique setting to enjoy real Italian food. Head down to La Fiamma today and experience the true taste of Italy right from the heart of Leeds.

228-230 Roundhay Road, Leeds, LS8 5AA Tel: 0113 40 60 70 TAKEAWAY AVAILABLE


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Business

August 2015 - 2nd Edition

Introducing Manchester’s first premium Asian shopping centre Big name retailers prepare for autumn opening

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anchester’s long wait for a high-end Asian shopping centre is almost over as the city’s first premium Bazaar officially opens later this year, bringing an array of exciting goods to customers in the city. Located in one of the most vibrant and energetic areas of the Lancashire, Manchester Asian Bazaar will add to Cheetham Hills already famed reputation as a shopping hot spot, with up to 60 new retail units opening up. Supplying a huge range of Asian products, visitors can pick up everything from fashion clothing to occasional wear, fashion footwear to jewellery, perfumery to beauty products and even haberdashery. The shopping mall, which is being developed through an investment of £750,000 in Cheetham Hill Shopping Centre, will be a brand new retail area of approximately 20,000 square feet. Open six days a week from 10am to 8pm it will present an opportunity for shoppers to visit the mall after working hours and there is no need to worry about parking, with 500 free spaces available for customers. As well as a host of new retailers, an onsite 60-seater cafe, offering up delicious Asian cuisine, will also open its doors to the public alongside a beauty salon. The mall aims to attract around 20,000 visitors a week into the Cheetham Hill area from all over Greater

Manchester, Lancashire and beyond. Offering up some of the best products available in the

“I am confident that this new bazaar will be a place for all to shop, eastern and western alike, bringing a breath of fresh air to what’s on offer.”

country’s Asian designer market, the bazaar will also look to uplift the whole area as a place to shop, in-turn having a positive effect on local businesses, and creating up to 200 new jobs. Tariq Mohammed, speaking on behalf of Manchester Asian Bazaar, said: “The demand of fashion merging from east to west has brought this new wave of clothing and accessories from that part of the world.

“I am confident that this new bazaar will be a place for all to shop, eastern and western alike, bringing a breath of fresh air to what’s on offer.” The team behind the project say they hope to bring an investment of over £10 million from retailers into the shopping mall making it one of the most desired places for Asian shopping. Tariq added: “In addition to

new businesses entering this area, there will also be a increased number of visitors that will hopefully shop at the surrounding areas as well as the mall. “This will help to boost income to other businesses in the local vicinity as our concept adds to the community rather than taking away, providing new and diverse products to customers.”


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National

Sculptor Kapoor says China work copies his Chicago ‘Bean’ COPIED?: The Chinese “Big Oil Bubble’ sculpture is a huge shiny, bean-shaped sculpture that bears a striking resemblance to Anish Kapoor's “The Bean”

ICONIC: Anish Kapoor's sculpture, which is known in Chicago as ‘The Bean’, was erected in 2006 and reflects the city's skyscape

British-Indian sculptor Anish Kapoor has said he intends to take legal action based on copyright concerns after noting a close similarity between a huge stainless-steel, globe-like sculpture in China and his "Cloud Gate" sculpture in Chicago. The sculpture in the far northwestern Chinese city of Karamay, whose sculptor has not been named, is described as an oil bubble inspired by the rich oil fields of the region. Kapoor's sculpture, which is known in Chicago as "The Bean" and was erected in 2006, reflects the city's skyscape and in photographs bears a strong resemblance to the Chinese work. "It has been reported in the media that an identical

SCULPTOR: Anish Kapoor

sculpture has been commissioned for the town of Karamay in the Xinjiang region of China," Kapoor said in a statement released on his behalf by publicists in London. "It seems that in China today it is permissible to steal the creativity of others. I feel I must take this to the highest level and pursue those responsible in the

courts." "I hope that the Mayor of Chicago will join me in this action. The Chinese authorities must act to stop this kind of infringement and allow the full enforcement of copyright." Kapoor's Chicago work figured in the 2011 movie "Source Code" starring Jake Gyllenhaal.

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CELEBRATIONS: Marking Indian Independence Day in Wales with (L-R) High Sherriff Heather Stevens, Lord Lieutnant David Beck Hon consul Raj Aggarwal, Mayor of Colwyn Bay Dr. Sibani Roy and Lord Mayor of Cardiff with children

Indian Independence Day celebrations in Cardiff India’s Honorary Consul to Wales Raj Aggarwal was invited to an official celebration of Indian Independence in Cardiff by the Lord Mayor of the city. He praised the contribution of the Indian community to the life of Welsh capital as crucial to the city’s development. Councillor David Walker spoke about the important economic and cultural influences that benefited the capital as he marked India’s Independence Day on Saturday 15th August with the country’s Honorary Consul in Wales, Raj Aggarwal. “People from India, in particular, have made a massive contribution to our city, in our economy, in our culture and in our communities,” said the Lord Mayor at the Mansion House celebration, which was attended by key civic and business figures. “Whilst the Indian community is not the oldest established community in Cardiff, they are one of the largest. “Not only is the community active but also willing to assist the council with the provision of local

services, and as a result there are wellestablished links between the council and Indian community leaders. “These contributions make our city the modern and vibrant Cardiff we all know. I feel it is particularly important that, as a city, we recognise these contributions. “That is why it is important that together we can celebrate special events such as Diwali, and, of course Independence Day.”

integrate well with the local community and are committed to success and prosperity of Wales.” He described the event as “another fine example of how our Lord Mayor shows his commitment to support and properly recognise the values and cultures of the Indian community who call Cardiff home, thus making it such a wonderful and vibrant capital and international city”. “The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukerjee and the High Commission in

“People from India, in particular, have made a massive contribution to our city, in our economy, in our culture and in our communities.” Mr Aggarwal, who announced that India’s Etourist visa was being extended to cover UK travellers with immediate effect, said: “The Indian diaspora are happily settled in Wales. They are highly successful, hard working and

London send their greetings and best wishes to the people of Wales, as they are proud of the massive contribution you all make for the success and prosperity of Wales and India,” he added.


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cctv and home security specialists HD 720p 2 Camera Kit High Definition 2 camera system with a DVR, provides a higher resolution picture than traditional Analog CCTV. The Waterproof 720p resolution Megapixel Cameras are suitable for internal or external use with a 3.6mm lens. It is viewable in full colour with an amazing day and night, picture quality. Price includes professional installation and cabling, free setup of remote viewing on your iphone or Android phone. All for only

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FULL HD 1080p 2 Camera Kit The CCTV System is supplied with 2 Sturdy, Waterproof 1080p Cameras which are suitable for internal or external use, with a 2.8mm - 12mm Varifocal lens. They are viewable in full HD colour, resulting in crystal clear images. The lens can be adjusted using zoom and focus. Easily read number plates outside your home or business , with these amazing FULL HD cameras. Price includes professional installation and cabling, free setup of remote viewing on your iphone or Android phone. All for only

£595 Already have Old analog cameras?? Time to upgrade to High Definition?

Switching from an analog based CCTV system to a HD camera system used to be a major hassle. Up until a few years ago, not any more, all our HD cameras can use your existing cabling, simply replace your old Cameras and the DVR, and enjoy the benefit of crystal clear picture quality.

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• Highest Quality Securicam Branded cameras • Professional cabling and installation • 2 Years Warranty for peace of mind • Lifetime support Unit 1A • Lister Mills • Heaton Road • Bradford • BD9 4SH • T: 01274 402 871 • www.securicamdirect.co.uk


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PREMIUM: Sources say Amazon signed £160 million for a three-series deal and the previous Top Gear trio

Ex Top Gear presenters Amazon Deal ‘Very very Expensive’

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Amazon founder Jeff Bezos has described the acquisition of Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond and James May to his digital television service as ‘Very, very, very expensive’. Some reports suggest the three-series deal is worth £160m, although Bezos would not be drawn on exact figures. "They’re worth a lot, and they know it," he admitted. "I think we're in a golden age of television so if you go back in time even just five years, you couldn't get A-list talent to do TV serials, or if you could, it was a rare thing. But that's flipped completely." The new car show, which is as yet untitled, is due to air on Amazon Prime next year. Clarkson's BBC contract was not renewed after he punched a member of the show's staff. But the controversial presenter was among the first to congratulate replacement Chris Evans, who signed a £3m deal with the BBC in June. Clarkson had claimed the corporation asked him to return to the show just days before Evans was announced as the new Top Gear host.

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Father and son

‘in law’ Its a family affair at West Midlands Police

Farooq and Karis Sheikh joined an exclusive West Midlands Police ‘father-and-son club’ last month when Karis hit the streets for the first time as one of 82 new PC recruits. The 25-year-old is cutting his teeth in Birmingham with stints alongside response units – answering emergency calls for help – and neighbourhood teams on the beat in Ladywood. As with all new officers Karis – who gave up a job in IT recruitment and took a hefty pay cut to realise his public service ambition – will spend the first 18-months under the guidance of a seasoned officer. And in an ironic twist his mentor, PC Kam Samra, was coached through his early crime fighting career by Karis’ dad Farooq who’s an Inspector steering the recruitment drive. Karis said: “I applied after hearing all the positives from my dad about

police work, plus I was unhappy doing a 9-5, rooted at a desk and on the phone and email all day. “I’m looking forward to mixing in communities I’ll be serving, understanding people’s needs and responding to emergencies…and I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t looking forward to driving my first blue light run. “I’d like to work in response, it’s a fast-paced environment that suits me, and down the line maybe specialise in traffic or firearms. “I’m learning a lot from Kam and it’s strange to think some of his advice would initially have been passed on by my dad years earlier.” Eighty more recruits are set to graduate from PC training school in July, with another batch of rookie PCs in training from the summer ahead of becoming operational late this year. New officers will continue to join the force throughout 2016 to deliver

FAMILY: Karis Sheikh is following in his father’s (Farooq) footsteps as he embarks on a career in the police, pictured here with mentor PC Kam Samra

the Police and Crime Commissioner’s intention to strengthen West Midlands Police’s ranks by 450. Karis’ father, Farooq, is currently an Inspector in the ‘Positive Action’

team – which aims to increase representation of black and minority ethnic groups in the force – having previously spent time in intelligence, CID, traffic, neighbourhood policing, response

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units, and Offender Management. He has 22 years’ police experience under his belt, including three years spent with the Canadian Police Force in Calgary and Vancouver Island.


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UK: Home terrorism - who to blame…? ETHNIC S

The Prime Minister David Cameron delivered his speech on the Government’s strategy on how to defeat the poison of Islamist extremism on the streets of Britain. Many points were raised by the PM but his points raise more eyebrows than answers for many. Cameron has promised to allow parents to cancel their children’s passports if they suspect that their kids are at risk. Well will the PM also look into the relationship of parents and their children and also what will the Government be doing about what some call online terrorist grooming? The Government is now going to run a five-year-plan to defeat home-grown terrorism but will Cameron also be looking at political terrorism and Britain’s constant support of a nation which cages children, women and men?Britain welcomes a nation that refuses to recognise the people’s democratically voted Government of Palestine, why is Britain not speaking up about this? Why is Britain hellbent on supporting the USA in every

attack they make on nation’s which are primarily Muslim? Home grown terrorism doesn’t just come about from watching TV or reading newspapers, but by the actions of governments who have created a poison which targets youngsters who already feel they have no real identity in this country or across Europe mainly.

constantly runs negative articles on Muslims in the UK and if any community were subjected to this daily, then how would you expect them to feel? I have just recently come back from a trip to Nazareth where I saw Christians and Muslims living side by side, religious leaders breaking fast together and people treating each other with respect. This

“What I now see in Britain is segregation - a BBC Asian Network and a BBC 1Xtra, so Asian and black culture sits there then we have Radio 1 which stands alone as a station for the whites on the other side!” Cameron talks about greater power for Ofcom to deal with some of the so-called extremist coverage on cable TV, but what about the negative reporting that we hear on mainstream radio and TV and read in newspapers? The constant reports of Muslim’s killing or bombing non-Muslim’s when in fact more Muslim’s are being killed. The mainstream British press

has given me hope that somewhere in the world there is a sense of real community cohesion. What I now see in Britain is segregation - a BBC Asian Network and a BBC 1Xtra, so Asian and black culture sits there then we have Radio 1 which stands alone as a station for the whites on the other side! Our politicians have allowed this country to become divided -

whites over here, Blacks and Asian over there. Now the same is happening with Muslims in Britain. This country has become a nation of divided communities. The right wing with all their ignorance are welcome to the mainstream media but the vast majority of moderate Muslim has been blocked out. There are far too many reports of “too many mosques” and “driving white people out of neighbourhoods” is the rant of the Brtish press. Perhaps Ofcom and Cameron need to look closer at home to create a nation that accepts people and will help them with learning more about British culture instead of trying to always make out that ‘Muslims’ are the only people to blame for home grown terrorism. If you give people hope and a sense of belonging, no matter who they are, you will end up having a less divided society. Britain needs greater integration and less segregation, at the same time discovering each other’s cultures while being proud to be British!

We’d love to have your feedback on this story. If you have something to say please email us on comments@asianexpress.co.uk


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• INTERNATIONAL NEWS • INTERNATIONAL NEWS • INTERNATIONAL NEWS • INTERNATIONAL NEWS WANTED: Hafiz Mohammed Saeed, chief of Jamaat-ud-Dawwa and founder of Lashkar-e-Taiba says he wants to ban Kabir Khan’s movie ‘Phantom’

FILM-MAKER: Kabir Khan says: “I am surprised and amused that a wanted terrorist has gone and filed a petition. He is the one who is spreading hate agenda and he is opposing the film, without even knowing what the film is about.”

Pakistani militant with $10 million bounty on his head seeks to ban Bollywood action film

A Pakistani militant leader with a $10 million bounty on his head over his alleged involvement in the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks now has a new target: a Bollywood film that imagines him being assassinated. In a twist worthy of a movie itself, a lawyer for Hafiz Mohammed Saeed wants to ban the upcoming film "Phantom" from being shown, arguing it is Indian propaganda meant to hurt the image of Pakistan abroad. But beyond the choreographed mayhem of the film's imagined, perfectly coiffed Indian spies, the movie's premise lays bare the anger still felt over the Mumbai attacks that killed 166 people, including six Americans, as well as tensions between the two nuclear-armed rival countries.

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• INTERNATIONAL NEWS • INTERNATIONAL NEWS • INTERNATIONAL NEWS • INTERNATIONAL NEWS

Pakistani militant with $10 million bounty on his head seeks to ban Bollywood action film Continued from page 65

financial capital. But unlike the novel, which used pseudonyms for those "I am surprised and amused that a wanted terrorist has gone accused of plotting the attack, ‘Phantom’ apparently names and filed a petition," film Saeed, as well as American director Kabir Khan recently David Coleman Headley, who said. "He is the one who is spreading hate agenda and he is was sentenced to 35 years in a opposing the film, without even U.S. prison for his role in knowing what the film is about." planning the siege. Authorities in the United Spy revenge films are nothing States and India blamed the new, like ‘Zero Dark Thirty’ militant group Lashkar-e-Taiba, focusing on the U.S. special long believed to be used as a forces raid in Pakistan that proxy by Pakistani intelligence killed al-Qaida leader Osama agencies against India in the bin Laden or ‘Munich’, the disputed Kashmir region, for Stephen Spielberg film on carrying out the Mumbai Israel's retaliatory assault. assassinations of Palestinians Saeed, who founded Lashkarover the 1972 Olympic Games e-Taiba, now runs the charity attack by Black September. Jamaat-ud-Dawa, which India In "Phantom," based on the novel "Mumbai Avengers" by S. says is a front group for Lashkar. Saeed denies having Hussain Zaidi, Indian spies target those behind the Mumbai any links with the militancy now. siege, a three-day rampage that The fact Saeed is named in saw gunmen attack two luxury ‘Phantom’ puts him at risk, hotels, a Jewish centre and a lawyer A.K. said. busy train station in India's

NAMED: The forthcoming Bollywood film ‘Phantom’ apparently names the Pakistan militant Saeed for his role in planning a siege in Mumbai


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• INTERNATIONAL NEWS • INTERNATIONAL NEWS • INTERNATIONAL NEWS • INTERNATIONAL NEWS

Hair shaved for Nepal A dedicated fundraiser from Leeds has had her head shaved for charity as she hopes to raise money for victims of the Nepal earthquakes. 24-year-old trainee solicitor, Jazz Kaur, parted ways with her luscious locks on Thursday 28th May, after opting to take part in the mentally challenging fundraiser after seeing ‘shocking images from overseas’. Over 8,000 people lost their lives following the 8.1 magnitude earthquake that hit Nepal in late April, whilst dozens more were killed following a second quake just weeks later. Thousands of men, women and children have been injured by the disaster whilst millions were affected. As aid missions continue in the country, it is charity champions across the world who have been raising funds for the victims with Jazz adding her name to the list of those offering support. Having her hair shaved by long time friend and barber, Emma Mack, at Woodland Barbers, Swillington, Jazz says despite the initial shock of her ‘new look’, it was worth it for the cause. “I made the decision to shave my head because I wanted to raise awareness of these kids in Nepal who have been affected in such a terrible way following the two earthquakes,” she said. “Their struggle is beyond pain and it is therefore up to us to hold tight and

work together to make sure there is help on hand for the victims. “This head shave is for the ones who are in pain and unable to ask for help, to show we haven't forgotten about them. It is not just for children in Nepal but for children who are struggling all over, and hopefully we can show them that there is a brighter day ahead.” She added: “I will be donating my hair to charity now and just want to thank everybody who's helped. You have all done more than you realise so thanks and stay blessed.” Jazz’s hair will now be donated to the Little Princess Trust – a charity which provides real-hair wigs to children across the UK who have sadly lost their own hair through cancer treatment. TRIMMING: Support on the day was offered by Jazz’s friends at Woodland Barbers in Swillington

ALL GONE: Jazz Kaur had her precious hair shaved last week to help vulnerable children in Nepal


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True spiritique class Sami Yusuf tour raises whopping half a million pounds for orphans

A sell-out Sami Yusuf tour has given vulnerable orphans the chance to build brighter futures through Penny Appeal’s orphan programme. The humanitarian charity teamed up with multi-talented artist Sami Yusuf for a nine-city tour, to support orphans in Asia, Africa and the Middle East. Every venue on the tour was sold-out and the packed crowds contributed in donations and commitments to raise an incredible half a million pounds, which will provide 1,076 orphan sponsorships and build eight orphan homes. Each Penny Appeal orphan sponsorship costs just 50 pence a day, and goes on to provide an orphan with food, clothes, healthcare, education and a dedicated foster mother – all in a loving and caring home. The tour was supported by Sami Yusuf, who is a world famous singer, musician and

songwriter. The popular artist hasn’t been on tour in the UK since 2008, but returned to perform songs from his highly accredited album, ‘The Centre’. Sami treated audiences to his self-coined genre of spiritique, which beautifully blends Western harmonics with traditional Islamic arts. The performances were made even more unique and special with the help of Sami’s musicians, who played traditional Iranian and Asian instruments. Aamer Naeem, Penny Appeal CEO, said: “It was a privilege to work with such an incredibly talented musician and the positive feedback from the whole tour has been incredible. “Sami Yusuf is also a humanitarian worker and we’re absolutely delighted that we can now improve the lives of so many vulnerable orphans, and it’s all thanks to the generosity of everyone who donated.”

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SHAFQAT HUSSAIN HANGING Pakistan’s death penalty: “Unjust legal system, with rampant police torture, poor representation for victims, and unfair trials” UNDERPRIVILIGED: Shafqat Hussain, was from a bitterly poor family who couldn’t afford legal representation when he was sentenced at age 15 - his family says he was tortured by police into making the confession in 2004

Pakistan has been criticised for the execution of a man convicted of killing a child, despite a storm of protests from rights groups that his confession had been extracted by torture and he was a minor at the time of the crime. Shafqat Hussain was hanged shortly before dawn at a jail in Karachi on 4th August, for killing a seven-year-old boy in the city in 2004. The case raised grave international concern, drawing protests from the United Nations, as his lawyers and family said he was only 15 at the time of the killing and was tortured into making a false confession. The United Nations rights experts said Hussain's trial ‘fell short of international standards’ and urged Pakistan not to hang him without investigating the torture claims, as well as his age. Hussain, just a few hours before he faced the scaffold, had continued to protest his innocence. In Muzaffarabad, the main town of the Pakistani administered part of Kashmir, his family was distraught. “Why did they hang my innocent brother, only because we were poor?” said his sister Sumaira Bibi, beating her chest and weeping. His mother Makhni Begum, looked glassy-eyed, stunned by the news of the execution after seeing her son reprieved from the gallows four times since January. “My son was innocent, only Allah will prove his

innocence in his court,” she said. “We can't do anything but they (executioners) will face Allah on the day of judgement.” Zaman – brother of Hussain, said his brother's last words to him were: “I never even touched the boy - I want to let the world know this as I lay down my life.” After receiving the body, another of Hussain's brothers claimed the hanging had not been carried out properly, saying ‘half of his neck is separated from his body’. The Kashmir government made a last-minute plea to President Mamnoon Hussain late on Monday 3rd August to postpone the execution, but to no avail. Hussain was originally due to face the gallows in January but won four stays of execution as his lawyers fought to prove he was under 18 at the time of the offence and could therefore not be executed under Pakistani law. An official probe into his age ruled he was an adult at the time of his conviction -though the results have not been published officially. British anti-death penalty campaign group Reprieve said the hanging represented ‘all that is wrong with Pakistan's race to the gallows’, while Amnesty International accused the government of ‘callous indifference’ to human life. Pakistan has hanged around 180 convicts since ending a six-year moratorium on executions in December after Taliban militants massacred more than 150 people at a school, most of them children. Hangings were paused during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan but resumed last week.

The European Union last week voiced serious concerns about the ‘alarming pace’ of executions, warning that a prized trade status granted to Pakistan could be threatened if it breached international conventions on fair trials, child rights and preventing torture. Hussain, the youngest of seven children from a remote village in Kashmir, was working as a watchman in Karachi in 2004 when a seven-yearold boy named Umair went missing from the neighbourhood. A few days later Umair's family received calls from Hussain's mobile demanding a ransom of half a million rupees ($8,500 at the time), according to legal papers. Hussain was arrested and admitted kidnapping and killing him, but later withdrew his confession, saying he had made it under duress. His true age has proved difficult to ascertain - exact birth records are not always kept in Pakistan, particularly for people from poor families like Hussain's. A birth certificate circulated in the media several months ago, but it appeared to have been issued only in December and the government said there was no proof of its authenticity. Amnesty International estimates that Pakistan has more than 8,000 prisoners on death row, most of whom have exhausted the appeals process. Supporters argue that the death penalty is the only effective way to deal with the scourge of militancy in the country. Critics say Pakistan’s legal system is unjust, with rampant police torture, poor representation for victims, and unfair trials.

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SANJAY DUTT: “From heroin to cocaine, “From heroin to cocaine, I have tried everything…”


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The King of Bangla Urban releases a Club Anthem www.asianexpress.co.uk

Straight out of his major signing with Universal Music India and collaborating with Punjabi rapper - Bohemia on Tension Stress,

Master-D is set to release another video from his debut Bangla album that will set the bar once more for the Bangla Music Industry. With over quarter million views from his debut releases – “Aye Raat”, “Desi Chick” and “Tension Stress”, Master-D is making waves within the new generation Bengalis worldwide performing at Desifest 2015 with over 17,000 people in attendance. Being the very first Bangla Urban artist to grace the stage MasterD’s motivation to

release yet another party anthem is all because of the major fan support. “When I first envisioned breaking into the Bangla Music scene, I wanted to change the way music was heard. No one was representing the sound correctly and now with all the support I’m getting, it makes me so proud to be part of this transformation” stated Master-D. Furthermore, with all this buzz around his "Bangla Urban" movement, MasterD has bridged the gap with Bangladesh by releasing

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“Phenomenon” with some major talents like Nancy, Miles and Kumar Bishwajit. “Phenomenon” takes a new angle with the video, shot with graffiti art by local artists, classic lowriders and a rugged west coast hip-hop feel shot by powerhouse director Peezee who is behind hit videos “Tera Nasha”, “On the Dancefloor” with The Bilz & Kashif and recently “Tension Stress” shot in Palm Springs. “Its about expressing how amazing a girl can make you feel that takes you in a new trance” states Master-D.


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SANJAY SANJAY DUTT: DUTT: “From heroin to cocaine, “From I have tried everything…” heroin to cocaine, I have tried everything…”

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Bollywood's original 'Munnabhai', Sanjay Dutt's life has been nothing less than a roller coaster ride. While others would have broken down and given up hope if life had thrown such challenges at them, Sanjay Dutt believes he is the 'chosen one'. In a recent interview, Sanjay Dutt spoke at length about his jail term, drug addiction and many other aspects of his life. Talking about this strange fate he said: "I feel I am the chosen one. I keep getting into trouble but keep coming out of it. God has always been there for me. “I used to reassure myself that maybe if I was out, I would have been killed and this is God's way of protecting me - by keeping me in jail. And so far I think I have fared well at all the tests he has taken." Confessing to his previous drug problems, he said that during his childhood he was sent to boarding school. Here he felt a lot more responsible and independent. He had to not only take care of himself but he also had to learn new things and recalled how everyday at the boarding school was a new challenge, a new responsibility. He was no longer that small kid who would listen to others. He knew how to take care of himself and did not like anyone's interference in his life, not even his family. The first time Sanjay Dutt tried drugs was when he was in college. Recalling the episode Sanjay Dutt said: "Someone asked me to try it once, I tried it and then it remained with me for the next nine years of my life. I always used to be in my own world. “From heroin to cocaine, I tried everything that was out there.

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“I used to sniff and take pills. In the last year before my treatment started I even used to inject drugs into my body." Sanjay Dutt remembered the day when he had a near death experience. He recalls: "One day I had taken heroin and went to sleep. I woke up after sometime and was feeling very hungry so asked my servant to get me something to eat. Seeing me he started crying and said that 'baba you've woken up after two days.' “When I heard this I was shocked. I went and saw myself in the mirror. My face had that drenched look and I knew it that if I don't stop myself now I will probably die. So I went to dad and told him to save me. He sent me to a well known hospital and soon after that I was sent to America to a rehabilitation center." Just few days after he came back to India his drug peddler visited him. "I was shocked to see as I had not informed anyone that I was coming back. So then I opened the door and he said he had some new ‘stuff’ – and if I’d like to try it,” says Sanjay. “It was that one moment that had to decide everything about how my

life was going to be. I realised that if I say 'yes' now, I'll never be able to get out of it. And so I said 'no'. "After I got better, I didn’t want to come back to India. I told dad that I don't want to come back but he insisted that I should. So I gave myself one year's time. I did not get any film project in that period.” Sanjay Dutt says: "I have become more tolerant now. Inside jail I was nobody. I used to sit and eat with robbers and thieves. It humbled me down. Broke my ego. I read the Bhagavada Gita inside jail. And my faith in God has only strengthened with time."

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“One day I had taken heroin and went to sleep. I woke up after sometime and was feeling very hungry so asked my servant to get me something to eat. Seeing me he started crying and said that ‘baba you've woken up after two days.’”


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From pop-star to collaborating with Abhishek Bachchan to personally buying lights for rural school-children in Tanzania

Raghav:

More than a ray of light… Canadian pop music star Raghav is set to release his new summer single ‘Until The Sun Comes Up’ later this August. What’s different about this track is that as well as having an appeal as an instant summer anthem, it’s accompanied by a powerful full video highlighting the lack of electricity in Africa. The track features Grammy Award winning rapper Nelly, and an exclusive version that features the hip-hop styling of bollywood star Abhishek Bachchan. After teaming up with Solar-Aid.org, an international NGO that has the goal of eliminating the kerosene lamp from Africa by the year 2020, Raghav distributed over 300 solar lights, which he personally bought, to school-age children in the small rural township of Shungubweni, in Tanzania. The lights will help the students of Shungubweni Secondary School study for an extra 375,000 hours, and save their families almost £39,000 per light as they will no longer needed to buy kerosene or candles. This amounts to a significant shift towards environmental responsibility and selfsustainability for the families who have received these lights. Segments of Raghav’s trip will be featured in the music video for ‘Until The Sun Comes Up’, with the aim of creating significant social awareness around the topic. Of the track Raghav says: “I hope people will look years from now at this song being a

singular moment when east and west collaborated in a way that has a true global musical impact. And performing it with Abhishek, who is the most talented human I’ve ever met, and Nelly, who is a legend, make this song even more special to me.” Bachchan, who has starred in over 50 major bollywood productions, is known for his love of music and having previously featured as a rapper in his movies, he dons the microphone once again for a verse on ‘Until The Sun Comes Up’ in his unique ‘Bachchan-esque’ style. He expressed his excitement on his Twitter page, personally thanking Raghav, and stating the collaboration was ‘an opportunity to work with two of my favourites.’ Rap star Nelly, a Grammy award-winning artist with four UK number ones under his belt also takes a verse on ‘Until The Sun Comes Up’. Last year the rapper-turned-TVstar secured his own reality show ‘Nellyville’, which is currently in its second season. His collaboration with Raghav and Bachchan is an exciting move for rap music lovers in India. Since announcing the collaboration, social media has been buzzing with conversation about the three stars teaming up for the big summer single, with thousands of tweets from pop, hip hop and bollywood music fans around the world. The lyric video has received over 35,000 views in just 24 hours since launching on YouTube.


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“I don’t believe I am successful” Having won both critical as well as box-office applause for his role in the Salman Khan starrer ‘Bajrangi Bhaijaan’, actor Nawazuddin Siddiqui says he still does not consider himself to be successful. "I don't believe that I am a successful person. I just like doing different roles, I have a passion for that," Siddiqui said. When asked what changes he feels in his life after the success of the film, the 41-year-old actor said, “I am the same as a person. I don't change but only the perception of people changes about me.”

Siddiqui will be says Nawazuddin Siddiqui seen playing the role of the villager Dashrath Manjhi. helped me to prepare Directed by Ketan Mehta, the biopic myself for the role. I could ‘Manjhi - The Mountain Man’ is a relate to my own struggle to true-life story of a man who single- seek inspiration," Siddiqui handedly carved a road through a said. He said there is a shortage mountain in 22-years with just a of role models in the country hammer and a chisel. The actor described this as the and the real life story of most challenging role of his career. Manjhi can serve as a big "The physical aspects can be taken inspiration for everyone. "He care of but portraying the mental has the power to be the superman strength of Manjhi was very difficult. in today's world. He made “My own 12-year-old struggle possible an impossible task," the when I did not have any work to do National Award winning actor said.

Anil Kapoor: “Movies, TV nothing without writers…” Veteran actor Anil Kapoor believes that all mediums of entertainment are nothing without good writers. Anil stressed on the importance of writing talent at the first Mumbai Mantra - Cinerise Screenwriting Programme. “The reason I come here is because I am always on the lookout for good writers that I can use in my movies and television shows. “I need their support and talent, and it is important for me. Whether it is movie, theatre or television, they are nothing without writers,” Anil said at the event. Anil, who is also a film producer, said: “I'm buying rights of many books and if you listen to the rates that these writers are demanding, you will be

Making biopic on Kishore Kumar is ‘difficult’, says son Amit Kumar Legendary actor-singer Kishore Kumar's son Amit Kumar feels that making a biopic on his father is a difficult job and no one should attempt it. Director Anurag Basu is making a biopic on Kishore Kumar with Ranbir Kapoor playing the lead role. "As an audience I think no biopic should be made on my father. I feel nobody can act like him or be like him. It is a difficult biopic," Amit said. "I don't know about the film. I think it is still undecided. They have not finished it yet," Amit said. The playback singer, actor, lyricist, composer, producer, director, screenplay writer and scriptwriter, was born on 4th August, 1929 at Khandwa in Madhya Pradesh. The versatile artiste died in 1987.

Considered as one of the most successful playback singers of the Hindi film industry, Kishore also sang in many Indian languages including Bengali, Marathi, Assamese, Gujarati, Kannada, Bhojpuri, Malayalam, Odiya, and Urdu. He also sang in private albums in several languages, especially in Bengali, which are noted as all time classics. He won eight Filmfare Awards

for Best Male Playback Singer and holds the record for winning the most Filmfare Awards in that category. Presently, Anurag is busy shooting for Ranbir Kapoor and Katrina Kaif starrer Jagga Jasoos. The director is reportedly waiting to get the dates of Ranbir, who is busy with his upcoming films.

shocked. “I like it when these writers ask for more money, but sometimes I feel that it's too much, what they are demanding, but it's ok... as a producer I think like that.”

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FILM: Bajrangi Bhaijaan DIRECTED BY: Kabir Khan GENRE: Romance/Action STAR CAST: Salman Khan, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Ali Quli Mirza, Adnan Sami (special appearance)

OUT NOW

All set to release in time for Eid, the Salman Khan starrer ‘Bajrangi Bhaijaan’ is very much anticipated. A 5-year-old girl from Pakistan, who is unable to speak, gets separated from her mother at an Indian railway station. Lost and hungry she finds shelter at the home of Pavan, an ardent Hindu devotee and hailing from a robust wrestling family. ‘Bajrangi Bhaijaan’ is the moving story of Pavan's quest to unite the child with her parents against all odds – he’s ready to move the heaven and earth. Set against the backdrop of colourful Chandni Chowk, the film travels from the heartland of Punjab, through the deserts of Rajasthan, over the snow-capped mountains of Kashmir Bajrangi Bhaijaan tells the story of how Pavan, who will move heaven and earth to fulfil the promise he made to the girl from across the border. With the songs from the film already a big hit, Adnan Sami who’s done a qawaali for the film, will cactaully feature in the flick. The song ‘Bhar do jholi meri" written by Kausar Munir has primarily been shot at a dargah with Sami.

OUT NOW FILM: Drishyam DIRECTED BY: Nishikant Kamat GENRE: Drama STAR CAST: Ajay Devgn, Shriya Saran, Tabu, Rajat Kapoor, Rishabh Chadha, Deshmukh

Vijay Salgaonkar runs a cable TV network in a remote and hilly village of Goa. He lives a happy life with his wife Nandini and two daughters. A 4th grade dropout & an orphan, Vijay has worked his way towards success with his sheer hard-work and street smartness in order to provide for his family

who mean the world to him. A man of few means and needs - Vijay believes life is to be lived simplistically. His wife, while she loves him devoutly, wants Vijay's miserly behavior to end and wants the world for her family. If there's one thing that Vijay cannot live without, it is his

passion for watching films. Such is his 'filmy' obsession that he doesn't mind staying up all night at his office binging on TV movies! In a bizarre turn of events a teenage boy goes missing. He is the son of a headstrong and nononsense cop IG Meera Deshmukh. Vijay and his family

are the prime suspects in this case. Will a humble and middle class man, be able to protect his family from oppression of the powerful? How the family weathers the storm that ensues during the violent investigation forms the rest of the story leading to an unexpected and shocking climax.


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FILM: Bangistan DIRECTED BY: Karan Anshuman GENRE: Comedy STAR CAST: Riteish Deshmukh, Pulkit Samrat, Chandan Roy Sanyal, Akash Pandey, Aarya Babbar Would-be suicide bombers argue over who has the longest beard in this comedy satire about two blundering terrorists with lofty ideologies and mediocre skills. The town of Bangistan takes its name from being in a forgotten corner of the world where bullets and bombs go off without warning. The best way to defeat your enemy is to become him, so the aspiring terrorists come up with the same, idiotic plan to change the world, involving international travel and taking on new identities, but bad luck

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RELEASE DATE: 7/8/2015

and bombs that were made in China ensure that their plans go awry. In North Bangistan, the disparate group Al KaamTamaam plans to disrupt the International Peace Conference in Krakow, Poland by sending Muslim bomber Hafeez bin Ali undercover as a Hindu. In South Bangistan, the political group Maa ka Dal has exactly the same idea and dispatches Praveen Chaturvedi disguised as a Muslim. By an outrageous twist of fate,

Hafeez and Praveen end up sharing an apartment in Krakow, unaware that they have arrived in the city with the same murderous intentions. Superstar Riteish Deshmukh (Masti) plays Hafiz Bin Ali/Ishwar Sharma, and Pulkit Samrat (Fukrey) is Praveen/Allah Rakha Khan, with a cameo from model an award-winning actress Jacqueline Fernandez, who starred in last year's ‘Kick’, one of the highest-grossing Bollywood films of all time.

FILM: Brothers DIRECTED BY: Karan Malhotra GENRE: Action/Drama STAR CAST: Akshay Kumar, Sidharth Malhotra, Jackie Shroff, Jacqueline Fernandez The film tells the story of a broken family, set in the world of mixed martial arts and underground street fighting. Gary Fernandes, a former alcoholic and street-fighter, returns home after serving a prison sentence of ten long years to find that the wounds of the past still haunt his family. His two sons, David and Monty, who had parted ways as kids, are grown men now, but are still bitterly estranged. Gary himself carries the burden of his guilt. His elder son, David is an ex-fighter turned school teacher. He and his wife Jenny work hard to make

ends meet and to provide the best they can for their ailing daughter Poopoo. Troubled financial circumstances drive a desperate David to return to the world of street fighting. While, Monty struggles with his lonely complex existence. An alcoholic, he is active in the world of street fighting, but lacks focus and determination. He strongly yearns for the acceptance, love and respect of his family. As the story unfolds, we see the journey of these three men, as they seek to find redemption and healing. Meanwhile, the arrival of

RELEASE DATE: 14/8/2015 'Right to Fight' is announced in India - the biggest international event in mixed martial arts history. Both brothers, at the crossroads of their lives, end up enlisting to fight in this 'Winner-takes-all' event. And it is here after an age of estrangement, unknown to the two siblings, they finally stand to face off with each other and against their personal demons, in the ultimate final battle. It is said, that when a deep injury is done to us, we can never recover until we forgive. Will this final battle between the two brothers repair old wounds?


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SjAuEUPlGyT 2015 THE MAN FROM U.N.C.L.E STARRING: HENRY CAVILL, ARMIE HAMMER, ALICIA VIKANDER AND HUGH GRANT TBC DIRECTOR: GUY RITCHIE CERT GENRE: ACTION, ADVENTURE, COMEDY Set against the backdrop of the early 1960s, at the height of the Cold War, “The Man from U.N.C.L.E.” centres on CIA agent Solo and KGB agent Kuryakin. Forced to put aside longstanding hostilities, the two team up on a joint mission to stop a mysterious international criminal organization, which is bent on destabilizing the fragile balance of power, through the proliferation of nuclear weapons and technology. The duo’s only lead is the daughter of a vanished German scientist, who is the key to infiltrating the criminal organization, and they must race against time to find him and prevent a worldwide catastrophe.

UK RELEA SE DATE:

14/8/201 5

SINISTER 2

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CERT

STARRING: SHANNYN SOSSAMON, JAMES RANSONE, DARTANIAN SLOAN, ROBERT DANIEL SLOAN DIRECTOR: CIARAN FOY GENRE: HORROR, THRILLER

Courtney is a mother of UK RELEA nine-year-old SE twins who has 21/8/20D1ATE: 5 just moved into a remote farmhouse. She's overly protective towards her sons - and soon her worst fears become a reality when her family appears to become a target of a supernatural presence - in particular, her young son Dylan is behaving oddly. In 2012, horror movie Sinister terrified audiences with its story of evil contained on strips of film. It also introduced us to frightening entity Bughuul, who now returns to claim more young souls.

VACATION

UK RELEA SE DATE:

THE GIFT

7/8/2015

STARRING: JASON BATEMAN, JOEL EDGERTON, REBECCA HALL DIRECTOR: JOEL EDGERTON GENRE: HORROR, THRILLER Gordo starts acting strangely, leaving suspicious gifts for them at their house, and threatens to destroy Simon with revelations about their shared history. past. Written and directed by Joel Edgerton, Simon and his wife Robyn run into who also stars as Gordo, 'The Gift' is a Simon's old school friend Gordo while out dark, psychological thriller from prolific shopping, and invite him to dinner. But horror studio Blumhouse.

TBC

CERT

The latest horror from producer Jason Blum, The Gift stars Jason Bateman as a seemingly ordinary man with a terrible secret in his

STARRING: ED HELMS, CHRISTINA APPLEGATE, LESLIE MANN, CHRIS HEMSWORTH, CHEVY CHASE DIRECTOR: JOHN FRANCIS DALEY, JONATHAN GOLDSTEIN GENRE: COMEDY

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CERT

Ed Helms plays the son of Chevy Chase in this latest instalment of the riotous Vacation series. In 1983, Rusty Griswold was taken by his family on a cross-country road trip to America's favourite family fun park, Walley World. Thirty-two years later, a now grown-up Rusty (Ed Helms) is taking his own family, including wife Debbie (Christina Applegate), and their two sons, James (Skyler Gisondo) and Kevin (Steele Stebbins), on the same vacation. What could go wrong? Hangover star Ed Helms and Anchorman actress Christina Applegate takes centre stage in this hilarious reboot of the successful Vacation series as the next generation of Griswolds cause mayhem across America.

UK RELEA SE DATE:

21/8/201 5


August 2015 - 2nd Edition

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Motors

Mmmmm… what a concept

New BMW M4 GTS giving adrenaline-fueled high performance for the road and race-track A year on from the launch of the BMW M4 Coupe, the car-maker is now presenting an initial preview of a high-performance model for use on the road and, above all, on the race track: the BMW Concept M4 GTS. The move sees BMW M Division once again returning to its roots. The BMW offshoot, founded in 1972 as BMW Motorsport GmbH, not only caused a sensation with its iconic BMW M1 racing car, but developed the first turbocharged engine to win the Formula One World Championship and was the

force behind what remains the world’s most successful racing touring car – the Group A BMW M3. The BMW Concept M4 GTS showcases new technologies such as the innovative water injection system that has already provided a significant output and torque boost in the BMW M4 MotoGP Safety Car. In addition, the BMW Concept M4 GTS has rear lights with OLED (organic light-emitting diode) technology that give the high-performance model a whole new look when darkness falls.

The dynamic and exclusive presence of the BMW Concept M4 GTS is accentuated by the exterior paint shade Frozen Dark Grey Metallic, with the Acid Orange accent on the front splitter creating an effective contrast. The lightweight, forged and polished light-alloy wheels in 666 M styling also feature an Acid Orange accent. The 9.5 J x 19 (front) and 10.5 J x 20 (rear) wheels are fitted with Michelin Sport Cup 2 tyres (265/35 R19 at the front, 285/30 R20 at the rear). The mixed-size tyres provide the ideal conduit for

the stand-out dynamic attributes of the BMW Concept M4 GTS. The water injection system introduced by BMW M Division sees that water is injected into the plenums of the intake manifold as a fine spray. When the water vaporises, the intake air cools significantly. As a result, the final compression temperature in the combustion chamber – and therefore the engine’s tendency to “knock” – is reduced, enabling the turbocharged engine to use higher boost pressure and earlier injection timing.

This technology ensures an increase in output and torque, while at the same time reducing the thermal stress on performancerelevant components. All of which also enhances the stability and durability of the turbocharged engine. The strong performance potential of the turbocharged sixcylinder in-line engine already demands an exceptionally sophisticated thermal management system for the engine and ancillary units.

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GUIDE: How to Fight Speeding Fines


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August 2015 - 2nd Edition

were 159,000 There prosecutions for speeding offences in England and Wales last year; 25 per cent more than the previous year. Either drivers in the UK are ignoring speed limits more or the methods of catching drivers breaking the rules are becoming more effective. More than half of those fined for speeding were caught on the motorway and mostly by cameras, as opposed to police cars. With some forces adopting a zerotolerance approach, it could mean drivers being fined and having penalty points on their licence for driving at 32mph in a 30mph zone. Quality of Signage The only way to guarantee avoiding a conviction for speeding is not to drive above the posted speed limit. However, it can sometimes be difficult to know what the limit is on a stretch of road either because of poor signage or because the signs are obscured by trees or, ironically, other road signs. Variable limits on motorways can change quickly and catch out drivers, which is a common reason for speeding fines on motorways.

If you think you have a good case, make sure you take photographs of any obscured signs when you fill in the Section 172 notice within 28 days of the Notice of Intended Prosecution being issued. This is the document that tells you the police intend to fine you and put points on your licence. Reasons to Contest Fill out the form and state you intend to contest the notice. If you were not driving the car at the time of the offence, you can also use this as a justifiable means to avoid the fine and points. However, you should reveal who was driving the car and be sure they were insured to do so, otherwise you could be in even more trouble for allowing someone to drive your car without insurance. You may also contest the speeding rap if you believe you were not speeding. Safety cameras have to be calibrated and you can ask for evidence of this to be provided. This will only work if you were a fraction above the speed limit as most police forces allow a margin of error, usually 10 per cent of the speed limit plus 2mph.

In Court If the police do not accept your appeal, you will have to go to court to contest the speeding conviction. For this, it’s best to seek professional legal advice. If you believe you were not speeding, you will need to prove this. Many drivers choose to go to court as they believe they have mitigating circumstances, such as taking someone to hospital in an emergency. In this case, it’s best to plead guilty but ask the court to take into account the reason you were speeding. In court, you can ask the prosecution to provide evidence of the speeding offence. Often mistakes are made in recording the offence or the vehicle has been wrongly identified, in which case you will not be prosecuted. When Not to Risk It While there is a good chance that contesting a speeding fine can result in it being quashed, there is also the risk of a magistrate imposing a larger fine and more points in a court. For this reason, be very sure of your case and if you know you've been speeding, it’s better to simply accept the original fine and points.

Motors

Motor insurers uncover 570 illegal policies every day

Insurers uncovered over 4,000 fraudulent motor insurance policies every week in 2014, it has emerged. Industry body the Association of British Insurers (ABI) said the figures should serve as a warning to anyone thinking of trying to 'cut corners' to lower their premium. According to the data, common lies told by drivers include 'forgetting' to declare past accidents, giving the address of a friend or relative who lives in a lower-risk area, and pretending to be the main driver when in fact it's their son or daughter – a scam known as 'fronting'. The ABI's members found 212,000 illegal insurance policies last year, equivalent to over 570 every day. Drivers are also being warned against using 'ghost brokers', who sometimes operate in seeminglylegitimate ways claiming to sell cheap insurance policies that don't actually exist.

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A number of these fraudsters have been fined and jailed recently, but the drivers affected are also committing crimes by – potentially unknowingly – driving without valid insurance. Their cars could be confiscated and even crushed. The Insurance Fraud Bureau is, at present, reportedly dealing with 26 more suspected ghost broker scams. Mark Allen, the ABI’s Fraud and Financial Crime Manager, said: “Insurers recognise that innocent mistakes and oversights happen. But anyone lying to get cheaper motor insurance, or tempted by cheap insurance offers without first checking that they are genuine, risks driving illegally. “The consequences include getting a criminal record and a massive financial headache if found to be at fault for a crash. The risks are just not worth it – especially when you can shop around for the right policy at the lowest price.”


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August 2015 - 2nd Edition

Tyre-maker slams fourth-year MOT The regional boss of the world's largest tyre-maker has said that moving new cars' first MOT test to four years instead of the current three would leave British roads “more dangerous than ever.” Bridgestone claims that the average life of a tyre is around three years, but many drivers won't even think to check their tyres' condition. Robin Shaw, Bridgestone's north region Managing Director, has expressed concern at Chancellor George Osborne’s plans to extend the first MOT deadline to four years. =The Government has claimed that the move would save motorists ‘more than £100 million per year.’ However, Mr Shaw believes the A proposal backed by major motoring organisations says introducing driving to the school curriculum could save 400 lives every year on the UK’s roads. The petition launched by Young Driver and supported by the likes of the Association of British Insurers, the RAC, Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM) and the Driving Instructor’s Association (DIA) says it does not want to lower the legal age of driving from 17years old, but instead wants school children to be taught about driving from a younger age. By providing lessons in the classroom and practical driving courses, the scheme’s supporters say it would help save the lives of this most vulnerable group of drivers. Another benefit of the scheme would be to cut the

added 12 months will result in more cars running on illegal tyres below the 1.6mm tread depth limit. When Highways England recently checked more than 100,000 tyres in England, Scotland and Wales, 27% were below the 1.6mm limit and 39% between 1.6mm and 2mm. He said: “We oppose these proposals, as we believe they will lead to an increase in the number of unsafe and illegal vehicles on our roads. “The government is claiming that by considering this change, motorists will save money because modern day cars don't need their vehicles tested as often. "The worry is that within the 12 month extension, motorists will be

number of deaths of young people travelling in cars driven by other young people aged 1724-years old. A quarter of all road deaths in the UK involve drivers or passengers aged 1519-years old. Kim Stanton from Young Driver explained: “Driving a vehicle is potentially one of the most dangerous and responsible things a person can do. Learning to drive should be done over a long period of time, and from a young age, when pupils are more receptive to safety messages. “Evidence-based research shows that road safety messages are better absorbed by children in their early teens rather than at driving age. By having this take place at school it can be made inclusive for all. We urge people to sign this petition so we can get this issue in front of the people with the power to change things.”

driving around with defects that are actually more costly to repair – and significantly more dangerous as a result.” Figures from the Department for Transport, as presented by TyreSafe in July, actually state that tyres are the number one contributing factor to killed or seriously injured cases in the UK over the past five years (36%) in terms of vehicle defects, more so than braking and steering faults (31% and 16% respectively). According to the DFT, 981 people were either killed or seriously injured as a result of dangerous tyres over the past five years, and Bridgestone believes that delaying the first MOT test to four years will only add to the “sombre” figures.

Child driving petition


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Dripping with beauty Ferrari reveals stunning-looking new 661bhp 488 Spider

Feast your envious eyes on the newest convertible addition to the Ferrari range, the turbocharged 488 Spider. Based on the 488 GTB, the 661bhp supercar is fitted with a similarly graceful folding electric roof that actually saves weight compared to an equivalent fabric type. It completes its motions in 14 seconds. An electric glass wind break behind the two seats can be raised into three positions for reduced buffeting inside the cabin, and it can also be lowered with the roof in place to enhance the sound of the engine. It shares the same 3.9-litre turbocharged unit as the GTB. Specially tuned to mimic the rev-hungry performance of a normallyaspirated engine while offering much greater torque, it has already been hailed as

an astounding feat of engineering. Ferrari claims that the Spider has the same torsional rigidity as the GTB; a 23% increase over its predecessor, the 458 Spider. The Italian firm says that is down to its use of 11 different aluminium alloys in the chassis, which are combined with “other noble metals such as magnesium.� Speed demons will love its ability to sprint from a standstill to 62mph in just three seconds, and to 124mph in a furious 8.7 seconds. Fashionistas will prefer the newlytweaked styling and feeling the wind in their hair. It will be officially presented to the world at September's Frankfurt Motor Show, but can for now be drooled over in the new 'Blu Corsa' paint finish on Ferrari's website.


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Quaid-e-Azam Sunday cricket League

The Quaid-e-Azam Sunday Cricket League is the oldest and largest all Asian league in the country, boasting 30 teams across three leagues. Set up in 1985, the setup is currently celebrating its 30th year anniversary and

Sport

continues to draw in talent from across Bradford, Leeds, Kirklees, Calderdale and even Sheffield. Keighley RZM are the current Premier Division champions and have retained the trophy for the past three

ONQ TEAM - Cup winners 2015

Cup Champions! OnQ defeat Keighley in Headingley masterclass Michael Topps starred with the bat and ball on Sunday as OnQ clinched their fourth Yasmin and Shaid Cup with a 105-run victory over Keighley RZM. The victors outplayed their opponents from the start despite a

Onq Cup winners Captain Kez Ahmed

slow start at the crease. After recovering from 23-2, Adam Patel (55) played with aggression and dispatched the opening attack for eight fours and two sixes during the first 13 overs before he was caught behind in the

MAN OF THE MATCH: Michael Topps picked up the individual award in the final for his bowling figures of 3-30 alongside scoring 24 with the bat

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years whilst upcoming talents continue to arise every season. Keep up to date with all the latest match reports and league tables with the Asian Express Newspaper who will be reviewing the best of the week’s action every issue. 14th over. Ismail Dawood and Majid Majeed stabilised the innings for Onq and took the score to 109 before Majeed was caught in the deep. The big hitter’s dismissal was the start of a middle-order collapse for the eventual champions as they lost Cosmond Walters, Ismail Dawood and Skipper Kez Ahmed before the end of the 29th over, leaving them with a score of 136-8 on the board. Nadim Hussain and Michael Topps were able to steady the ship with an impressive ninth wicket partnership, and got Onq back into a commanding position by taking the score to 191 before Topps was caught at long on by Nasar Jamal. Onq were eventually all bowled out for 194 – an above par score on a green track, before Keighley began their chase. It was hardly a dream start for the cup holders as they lost their key batters, Gulsheraz Ahmed (six) in the third over before Waleed Akhtar was bowled out for a duck. In the eighth over a third wicket fell as Raja Arshad Hayat was caught by skipper Ahmed taking Keighley to 22-3 and making the target of 194 seem ever further away. In the 11th and 12th over, Keighley lost a further two wickets with Yasar Ali - trapped LBW, and then Amar Rashid, clean bowled by the impressive Majeed. Retaining the cup was looking less and less as Onq began to dominate with the busy crowd growing in noise as they sensed an early finish to the much-hyped encounter. Keighley continued to lose wickets regularly from the 15th over and were eventually all bowled out in the 30th over for just 89 runs. OnQ were victorious and lifted the prestigious trophy at the home of Yorkshire cricket. Now their attention turns back to the league, as they attempt to chase down Keighley’s lead at the top and secure what would be a memorable double this season.

MAN OF THE TOURNAMENT: Big hitter Waleed Akhtar, from Keighley RZM, was named man of the tournament after a masterclass performance on the road to the final – scoring two centuries in dominant displays


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SETTLING FOR SECOND BEST – AMIR KHAN VS MANNY PACQUIAO By Khalil Alam info@asianexpress.co.uk

There have been rumours circulating that Amir “King” Khan is close to securing a fight with the recently injured Manny Pacquiao and to make matters more interesting there is talk of the battle to be staged in the Middle East. Khan had hoped to fight the best pound for pound fighter on the planet Floyd Mayweather but seems to have been overlooked again by the man nicknamed “Money.” Mayweather has since confirmed that his last bout before retirement will be against the limited Andre Berto. Pacquiao’s last fight was against Mayweather where he beaten convincingly over 12 rounds. However during that bout Pacquiao picked up a shoulder injury that he claims hampered his chances of success. According to promoter Bob Arum the Khan vs Pacquiao matchup could take place as early as next year and Pacquiao is already showing good signs of recovery from that injury. Khan has recently said, “I think the fight can happen. If it makes sense financially for both of us, then I think the fight will definitely take place. ... Fighting-style wise, Manny wasn't at his best against a defensive Mayweather, but with me I'm a totally different fighter. We both like to fight, move and both have tremendous hand speed. I think it would be amazing. I'd love to take that fight.” Khan and Pacquiao are both familiar with each

Khalil Alam, boxing coach and columnist

other’s fighting style and were previously trained by the same trainer Freddie Roach so both will be confident in putting on a show and winning this bout. The fight taking place in the UAE is a very exciting prospect because of the large Pakistani, Muslim and Filipino populations present, and I would agree that financially this fight makes sense for both Khan and Pacquiao. Khan has stated that Pacquiao was not at his best against Mayweather and I personally felt he was a major disappointment. It will be interesting to see how Pacquiao can recover from such a severe beating he received from the American. As for Khan, a fight against the likes of Pacquiao will help him recovering from the shock he has recently endured by not being named as Mayweather next opponent, even though he has been the leading contender for that bout. Pacquiao is still regarded by many as one of the best pound for pound fighters and the eight division champion will be consolation for Khan as the “second best” thing to a Mayweather bout. I also see the Khan vs Pacquiao fight as one of the best clashes out there because both fighters are probably still regarded as the fastest punchers in the division and the most talented in terms of boxing ability. As I reported last week I still do not think Mayweather will retire for good after his May 2015 fight against Berto and should Khan manage to win against Pacquiao (if that fight happens) then he will be more than likely be guaranteed that Mayweather fight. Khan in terms of his boxing career has been fighting credible opponents for some time now and I believe he has reached a pinnacle stage of his career where he needs the big name fights and Pacquiao is definitely a step in that right direction.

Cricket for Heroes

Sporting royalty to face off in September for charity A selection of the cricket world’s most recognised name’s, from the past and present, will pad up and head to the crease for a very special T20 next month. The inaugural Cricket for Heroes match up will take place at the iconic Kia Oval on Thursday 17th September, raising money for national charity – Help for Heroes. A Rest of the World XI will take on a Help for Heroes XI in what will be an all star match-up, including players from India, Pakistan, England and New Zealand. Amongst the big names already confirmed to appear in the contest are three of Pakistan’s most famous cricketing sons. Current T20 skipper, Shahid Afridi, is joined by countryman Abdul Razzaq on the field of play whilst the legendary Wasim Akram, will be coaching the Help for Heroes XI. Cricket for Heroes Chair of Selectors, Allan Lamb, said: “It's fantastic news that we have managed to secure three prominent Pakistan cricketers and I'm sure having them on board supporting a great cause will encourage Pakistan supporters to turn out in their numbers. “We have even more big player announcements to follow which I'm sure will also generate a real buzz, especially within the Asian community.” Last week it was announced that the Rest of the World XI will be captained by New Zealand skipper Brendon McCullum, coached by Gary Kirsten and managed by Sunil Gavaskar, whilst Indian legend Virender Sehwag was the latest name confirmed to appear earlier this week. Gavaskar urged cricket fans to come down for the day of sport and watch a completely unique T20 unfold. “I am delighted to be managing the Rest of World XI,” he said. “I can resume some friendly rivalry with Sir Ian ‘Beefy’ Botham, albeit off the field and it will be special to be involved with such a great cause. “The whole day is bound to be a wonderful experience and I urge all cricket supporters to come along and make a day of it.” Meanwhile, the Help for Heroes XI are under the leadership of Andrew Strauss and the management of Sir Ian Botham. Their squad features names such as Graeme Swann, Simon Jones, Matthew Hoggard and Darren Gough, to name a few. The headline match will be preceded by the Old Mutual Changemakers Challenge Cup starting at 3pm. This will be the very first match between the Help for Heroes Cricket Club and the England Physical Disability Cricket Team. Tickets for this fun end of season party cost just £20 for adults and £1 for kids (under-16). Tickets can be bought online at www.cricketforheroes.com

COMPETITION DEBUTANT: Pakistan’s T20 captain, Shahid Afridi, will skipper the Rest of the World XI at the Oval as they take of a Help for Heroes XI

For your chance to win a family ticket (2 adults, 2 children) to Cricket for Heroes, just answer the following question:

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August 2015 - 2nd Edition

Sport

Changing perceptions in sport

Halima Khan: Improving participation numbers ‘from playground to podium’ Back page story continued “Rather than looking at faith as a separate concept to sport, we need to challenge this perception and use faith as a vehicle for change. “The two go hand in hand, with so many similarities and it is up to all parties to promote sport inclusively.” She continued: “The problem exists both ways. Many sport organisations are simply not doing enough to open their doors to a diverse public, whilst ethnic minorities are also not going out there to pursue a career in a sport they want. “People need to be made aware that a career in sport does not just mean playing it. You can work in so many different roles and help make a difference in the landscape of sport.” Growing up in Bradford, Halima always wanted to play cricket as a child and after finally convincing her parents to let her pursue a role in the sport, she excelled, going on to represent Bradford Ladies. She currently works as an advisory to the recently established ‘National Asian Cricket Council’ (NACC), which acts as a supportive arm to the English Cricket Board (ECB), giving the Asian community a voice in all levels of cricket. “A major objective the ECB has set is to get more south Asians involved in the sport,” she said. “The NACC is giving Asians a voice

to be heard and a platform for which to share their views with the best ways to improve participation from playground to podium.” Halima’s own self-confessed ‘high point’ in cricket came last December after being invited by the CEO of Bermuda Cricket to help establish a three-year-plan to create an official women’s team.

“A major objective the ECB has set is to get more south Asians involved in the sport.” Flying out to the idyllic island, she helped train the ladies squad before returning to the UK, taking up a grassroots role with Clayton Boys Under 15’s. Nonetheless, it is participation that Halima says she is determined to improve, and whether that via her work at home in Bradford, or from her actions overseas, it all serves the same goal. “When I began my career, I used to look at people in sport management positions and think ‘I can’t do that’,” she said. “Now I’m the engagement officer for Badminton England and hold advisory roles in sports across the country. “If I can do this, so can anybody else.

Hi5toric finish for Lahiri

As Jason Day celebrated his first Major victory last weekend, records were also being broken a little further down the leaderboard with Anirban Lahiri writing his name in the history books. Finishing an eventual T-5 at the PGA Championship secured the 28-year-old a record high finish for any Indian golfer as he finished with a final round, four-under par. Seemingly taking the Whistling Straits course in his stride, Lahiri shot two 70s, alongside a 67 and

It takes a lot of perseverance and commitment but change will only happen if we play our part too. You will not just be handed a job in sport one day, it takes work.” She explained how the London Olympics had played a big role in changing perceptions for women in sports, with Nicola Adams singled out as changing views in the boxing world.

68 to end 13-under par, only bettered by four golfers across the four-day event. Speaking after the Championship, he said it was a massive confidence boost and he was now determined to come back even stronger in future competitions. “I won't really say I was in contention here, because I was a long ways out. But I was in the mix,” Lahiri said. “It's a great feeling. It's massive for me. It gives me so much

Accepting that role models are needed, Halima added that it was also important for change at the top of the game, from media coverage to boardrooms, in order to further promote inclusivity. “Growing up, children from BME communities are urged to go into a career as a lawyer, doctor or solicitor, but these are the same people who can sit on a sport’s governing board,” she said. “We have to take these proactive steps ourselves and help make a change for the better in sport.”

SUCCESS: Anirban Lahiri secured a career best T-5 position at the PGA Championship last weekend

confidence. “It also tells me that I can compete with the best on the toughest courses and the best fields. Also tells me that I need to get just a little bit better and maybe I'll be back here more often.” Lahiri’s previous best performance at any Major came earlier this year when he secured a T30 position at the testing Open Championship. He had never made the cut at the PGA Championship prior to last week.

CRICKET: Halima is a keen cricketer and currently represents Bradford Ladies

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Sport

SPORT Halima Khan: Improving participation numbers ‘from playground to podium’ By Ashley Grint ashley@asianexpress.co.uk

From a Bradford terrace house to coaching the Bermuda ladies cricket team, Halima Khan has seen and done so much more than she could have ever dreamed of ten years ago. Today, the 31-year-old fast bowler from Girlington is working hard to challenge perceptions in sport, redefining what is deemed possible for ethnic minorities, and improving

August 2015 - 2nd Edition

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PIONEER: Halima Khan currently works as participation manager with Badminton England, actively promoting the sport at all levels to all communities

participation across the board. Her full time job as a participation manager with Badminton England is simply one string to her ever growing bow of roles in sports organisations, as she leads by example from the grassroots to board level. “My aim in sport as a whole is to get more ethnic minorities involved at every level, especially women, right up to the boardroom,” she said.

Continued on page 99

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