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Revealed: University zero-hour contracts
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Brand: All talk, no P9 action
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Joe Nerssessian
ASSISTANT NEWS EDITOR
MORE than 150 staff members at the Arts University Bournemouth (AUB) are employed on controversial zero-hour contracts, a Freedom of Information request has found. But AUB has hit back, claiming the findings are “misleading”.
Arts university employs staff on zero-hour contracts
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Full story: page 5
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Shocking figures for Dorset mobile phone theft
Joe Nerssessian
ASSISTANT NEWS EDITOR
THE alarming scale of phone theft in Dorset can be revealed today by
The Rock. A Freedom of Information request to Dorset police shows almost 3,000 mobiles have been stolen in the last two years. That is more than four every day and police fear that this is just the tip of the iceberg. Official crime statistics show
1,470 phones were reported stolen to Dorset Police in 2012 while 1,372 devices have been snatched already this year, or four phones every day. The rising value of smartphones and their features have made them an attractive target to thieves. Nationally, mobile phone theft has
surged in recent years, increasing by 25 per cent since 2009. Bournemouth University student Katie Pathiaki, 20, had her iPhone stolen last year on a night out in Bournemouth town centre. “I went clubbing in Bournemouth and was having a good time. At the
end of the night I went to call a taxi and tried to find my phone and it had gone from my zipped bag. I spoke to one of the bar staff who told me lots of phones had been going missing.”
Continued on page 8
2 news
Thursday 14 November 2013| The Rock
Scheme launched to stop bike theft Hailey Hammer
SHOPLIFTING in Winton has fallen thanks to the success of a crimewatch scheme. Councillors Johann Edwards and Theo Stratton developed the initiative two years ago with the help and support of the local Winton community. The effects of the scheme are astonishing, with last year seeing a 40% drop in crime within shops. “Nowadays, you go for a week without having any shoplifters, whereby before you had at least one or two a day,” says Mo Faal, a security guard for Lidl. Shops participating in the shop watch scheme in Winton include Lidl, Waitrose, The Co-operative, Boots, WHSmith, Superdrug, Sainsbury’s and Sturtons & Tappers. Theo Stratton says the signs on the shop windows show that the shops are looking out for their residents, and that they are trying to ensure there is no one going to cause any antisocial behaviour or going to be violent. The overall effects of the scheme have resulted in “more unity between shops, and there has been an increase in footfall and more customers going to the high street,” said Theo Stratton. The scheme has provided unity in the area, which has resulted in a Winton Traders Association, bringing the shops together.
DEPUTY NEWS EDITOR
THURSDAY, 14 November 2013
News
Winton byelection: have you voted yet?
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Opinion Syria: why we should intervene
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Features Breaking Bad and the TV revolution
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Sport
Pugh: ‘We can finish in the top half’
A PIONEERING scheme to prevent bike thieves has been launched in Bournemouth. The council bike tagging scheme allows cyclists to have their bikes tagged and registered for free and is in response to the increase in stolen bikes across Dorset. In 2012, a total of 1,724 bikes, or around four every day, were stolen in the Bournemouth, Poole and Christchurch area. But now throughout November you can have your bike tagged and registered, making it traceable should it get stolen. Carly Earnshaw, Media and Communications Officer at Bournemouth Borough Council, said the scheme has proved to be effective in other parts of the UK. “Bike tagging has been rolled out in several towns across the UK. Where they have been launched we’ve seen that it has driven a 50% reduction in bike theft. We hope for the same effect here, and over the next 18 months we’ll also be promoting cycling as a sustainable form of transport. “As more people cycle, there may be more chances of theft, which is why we launched this scheme,” she said. As part of the scheme, a unique identification number is chemically etched onto the bike. This number is saved with the owner’s personal details in a National Bike Registry so the ownership can be proved, making it less tempting to steal in the first place and more difficult to sell. Dom Smith, Police Community Support Officer of the Dorset Police, said the scheme is “brilliant” in more than one way. “We tag people’s bikes so they are able to trace them should they get stolen, and it also gives us a chance to talk to people about security. Most bike owners just don’t know how bad their locks are, and how easy it is to cut them. “Someone can walk up to a bike with a cable lock, grab a pair of
Officer Dom Smith chemically etching an ID number
H.HAMMER
tweezers from their backpacks and cut the lock in 40 seconds. No locks are impregnable, of course, but at least with a D-lock the thief needs more time to break it open and it is a more visual action, making them easier to catch,” he added. The first event was held earlier this month. Despite the pouring rain, bike owners were lining up outside the Bike Tagging tent waiting to register their bikes. Emma Skipsworth from Bournemouth Borough Council said it was all going according to plan: “We’ve had about 15 people here
already, so it’s going really well. “We didn’t want it to be manic but rather to have a steady stream, which is why we have scheduled several events throughout November. There will also be some events after Christmas when people have received new bikes they want to secure,” said Ms Skipsworth.
Nicky Thomas
Heath Bishop
Jayne Biles
“I had an expensive mountain bike stolen this spring. It was secured with a large cable lock inside a locked bike cage. The thieves cut the wire mesh, broke my lock and lifted the bike out. They seem to know exactly what they’re doing.”
“I cycle every day to work so I think this bike tagging is a great idea. As I’ve had a locked bike stolen on an earlier occasion, I feel safer having this one tagged and registered. You think that as long as you lock your bike it’s safe, but it’s not.”
“I don’t use my bike much because I don’t feel completely safe about it. I keep it locked inside a secure storage room in my block, but bikes still get stolen from there, which means thieves are actually able to get inside this locked room somehow.”
The next events will be held at Asda in Bournemouth on November 18, 11am-2pm, at the Henry Brown Youth Centre on November 19, 2pm-4.30pm, and at the Kinson Christmas Fair on November 30, 11am-4pm.
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Shop watch scheme success
SUBU Student Shout event IF you have any ideas and issues worth raising, November 22 is the right time to do so. The Student Union’s yearly Student Shout night is coming up, where motions ranging from recycling on campus to magazines sold in the shop and academic timetables will be brought forward, discussed and voted on there and then. If the motion gets 75% of the votes, it will be passed and officially be prioritised by SUBU’s executive officers. Democracy and Campaign Officer Georgie Laming said they are expecting a big turnout as they need at least 100 students present for the motions to be passed. “Not only can people vote for the motions suggested but they can also vote for the remaining positions in SUBU. It’s a great way to get involved and we’re counting on a lot of people to be there, especially now that we have several new positions in the union, and the students running will bring people to vote for them,” said Georgie. Alan Dave, Commercial Officer, said the event is likely to be enthusiastic as newly appointed part-time officers will take part in the discussion and bring their new ideas forward. Motions must be given to the council by Monday November 18.
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The Rock | Thursday 14 November 2013
Unveiled: University’s new £22m vision for the future T
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Above and top right: Artist impression of the new £22m building and how the site looks today. Lower right: Another view of the proposed complex BU/HAILEY HAMMER
Marcin Bryszak
THESE are the first images of ambitious £22m plans to expand Bournemouth University. A world-class, flagship complex is planned at the Talbot Campus and BU hopes it will attract top staff and students for years to come. Now the public is being asked for its views on the state-of-theart building. The centre would provide a new range of academic, research and social facilities for the university, including seminar rooms, lecture theatres and
catering facilities. The design is for a building with a glass-fronted exterior, a central atrium and open spaces offering a welcoming atmosphere. Local residents and businesses would also be encouraged to use the building’s facilities. Soft landscaping and green features will also form part of the plans when the design is finalised. The proposed location for the new building is on one of the campus car parks, which currently holds 197 spaces. As part of its plans, BU is developing options to replace all of the car park spaces lost. These options will be announced in due course and consulted on before a planning application is submitted. Professor John Vinney, Vice-
Chancellor of BU, said: “2013 has been one of our most successful years and we’re determined to keep on improving. “Our aspiration is to become a centre of academic excellence in education, research and professional practice and we need world-class facilities to match those aspirations. “This proposal, which will meet the needs of our current number of staff and students, would enable us to vacate some temporary buildings into a purpose-built state-of-the-art centre.” This year BU moved up 14 places in The Sunday Times Good University Guide, becoming the first university to be “commended” by the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education for the quality of student
learning opportunities – the highest award possible. Earlier this month a new report revealed BU is worth an annual £252m to the conurbation of Bournemouth, Poole and Christchurch and £378m to the South West – more than £1m a day. As part of BU’s plans to improve its facilities, construction began in the summer on a new £10.5m student centre, which will provide significant additional learning space. Professor Vinney added: “We are very proud of our recent achievements and the significant contribution we make to the local economy. “However, we cannot afford to stand still in an increasingly competitive higher education market
and these new buildings will help us attract high-calibre staff and students for years to come. “We want to engage with the local community on our plan for a new academic building, and we very much welcome their views.” Newsletters and updates are being sent to local residents and other key stakeholders to attract interest and encourage people to express their view. A public exhibition detailing the plans and the parking options will be held on Thursday, November 14 with a planning application due to be submitted in February 2014. What do you think? Leave your comments online at www.bournemouth.co.uk
Ethnic minorities urged to get vaccinated against virus Sammy Jenkins
WORRYING research has shown girls from ‘Black’ or ‘Other’ ethnic minorities are less likely than their ‘White’ or ‘Asian’ counterparts to be vaccinated against the Human Papillomavirus (HPV). The virus may eventually lead
to cervical cancer. Ebi Sosseh, Development Officer for the Dorset African and Caribbean Association said that one of the big issues is that some of the girls from ethnic minorities do not necessarily understand the information provided. He said that any information attempting to reach out to the black community over this issue would have to be appropriately targeted. “A lot of communities don’t
actually know what cancer means, and when I say communities, we’re talking about people who come into the country and haven’t been here that long to understand the terminology.” Dr Jo Waller is study author at University College London (UCL). “Cervical cancer is largely preventable through vaccination against HPV and cervical screening picks up problems early so they can be treated before the cancer has a
chance to develop,” she said. The Cancer Research UK Health Behaviour Centre at UCL studied around 2,000 girls from 13 schools across London. They were asked a number of questions, including if they had been vaccinated, if they were sexually active and if they smoked. Results showed that the girls from ethnic minority groups said they would be less likely to attend a screening for cervical cancer when
invited to do so as adults. Mr Sosseh said: “I think that is a cultural issue. Some people see nakedness as an embarrassment. “Sometimes people not getting the information depends on the circumstances and whether or not you are in the right place at the right time.” He believes a way to tackle the information problem would be to get into minority groups and physically tell people about HPV and cancer.
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Thursday 14 November 2013| The Rock
Safety alert after sex attack
Editorial Team
Nikita Lewis NEWS EDITOR
Editor-in-Chief Tom Beasley Deputy Editor Michael Seymour News Editor Nikita Lewis Deputy NE Hailey Hammer Deputy NE Hollie Wong Assistant NE Joe Nerssesian Opinion Editor Chris Fay Features Ed Emma Baker Assistant FE Anna Hayward Sports Editor Ben Fisher Deputy SE Jack Cozens Chief Sub Marcin Bryszak Assistant Chief Subs Anna Pujol- Mazzini & Ross Took Online Editor Robyn Montague Assistant OE Poppy Jeffery The Rock needs you. We still have many jobs available on the editorial and business staff, as well as online. To find out more and register your interest, visit: www.bournemouthrock.co.uk/getinvolved/ Letters to the editor must be signed (including the course of Bournemouth University students, the working title and school for staff members, company name, or home address for individuals outside BU). Prior to the publication, letters will be verified for authencity by the editor. Anonymous letters will not be published. The editor reserves the right to edit all letters in regard to libel law, length, taste, grammar and punctuation.
Letters to the editor: editor@bournemouthrock.co.uk P1 photo credit: Eva Rinaldi (Russell Brand) PRESS ASSOCIATION IMAGES
A SAFETY alert has been issued after claims a Bournemouth student was subject to a terrifying sex ordeal. The woman got into a car that she believed was a taxi and was assaulted on the drive to her boyfriend’s house. She managed to escape when she pretended to live in Charminster and demanded the driver to stop. “I was so scared, I hid behind a bush as soon as I got out of the car, but I was worried he would come back,” she told The Rock. “It was a terrifying ordeal and I’ve never experienced anything like it before in Bournemouth. I’ve used many cabs in the past without trouble.” Now all students have been warned to be extra vigilant on nights out. Police Community Support Officer (PCSO) Majid Samadi said: “I urge all students to never get in a cab if they have not booked one, or picked one up from a taxi rank.” The incident follows a series of reported sexual assaults in recent months. Police have issued appeals regarding a sexual attack on a woman on October 25 in Moordown, and assaults on two young girls in the Northbourne area in November. The woman involved in the most recent case has now informed the police. Her ordeal began around
The reported sexual assault victim escaped the car in Charminster 3am on November 1. The victim was leaving a club alone after a night out with friends when a white middle-aged driver beckoned her over. After entering the vehicle, the driver started inappropriately touching her. During the drive through Charminster, the woman demanded the driver let her out immediately. She said: “He seemed startled by my sudden declaration for him to stop the car, and kept asking if I was sure this was my address. I told him everything that he wanted to hear in order for him to let me out and then ran and immediately called the police, who then came and picked me up.” PCSO Samadi said: “Entering a registered taxi ensures any incidents that happen can be traced back.” He also encouraged students to safely drink and go home with friends. “Look after each other and make sure you all
get home safely.” One of Dorset’s largest taxi firms has also issued advice to students. Derek Heritage, Marketing Director for United Taxis, said: “Whenever you get into a cab you should always try and make a note of the license plate, which will be on the back and front of the car. “We track all our vehicles which ensures all our cabs are traceable. Other cab services do so as well. In addition, if you make a call for a cab it is important to wait for the right vehicle. People tend to just get in, and don’t notice much about the vehicle or driver, and it makes the taxi untraceable.” The victim of the reported sexual assault said: “I want other females to be wary of travelling home alone at night and to avoid getting in any cabs they haven’t ordered. Since the incident I haven’t been home but stayed with my boyfriend as I don’t feel that safe.”
Journalism big names to speak at BU Tom Beasley
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF SOME of the biggest names in journalism will be gathering at Bournemouth University for the annual NCTJ Journalism Skills conference later this month. The conference on November 27-28 will see delegates debate good practice, exchange ideas and discuss key issues in the industry. And BU students will be filming, blogging and tweeting the action. The conference will kick-off with a session on Journalism and the Digital Landscape, inspired by the latest findings on the state of the creative industries. The panel will comprise Pete Clifton from Microsoft, Peter Bale, CNN and Liisa Rohumaa, formerly at ft.com and now a senior practice fellow at Bournemouth University. Changing business models and the impact on skills of economic constraints will also be debated by a panel of regional news editors: Tom Thomson from Herald and Tribune Group, Bournemouth
Echo Deputy Editor Andy Martin and Frank le Duc, who will give the perspective from local TV, as well as input from the Huffington Post. The first day will conclude with an awards dinner at the art deco Print Room in Bournemouth where the host will be ITV news anchor Mark Austin (right), who started his career at the Bournemouth Echo. Day two will look ahead to ways the industry can lead and direct the shape of journalism education with contributions from Ian Murray, president of the Society of Editors and editor in chief at the Southampton Daily Echo, and BU former practitioner in residence, Jake Wallis Simons, features writer at the Sunday Telegraph. The conference will close with a debate about the key issue of ethics and how we train responsible professionals, with speakers from The Guardian (Sandra Laville, crime correspondent), CNN’s digital business desk (Ollie Joy) and the BBC College of Journalism (Andrew Wilson). Dr Karen Fowler-Watt, associate dean of journalism and communication at Bournemouth University, said: “It is always good to get together, to share ideas and reflect on
Mark Austin to speak at BU
ITN
what we do - but never has it been more important to do so than now, when the pace of change has quickened and the challenges are more diverse.” She added: “The appetite amongst young people to train as journalists shows no sign of dwindling – we hope the conference will give the profession a glowing health check and a boost of confidence for the post-Leveson era.”
Study shows benefit of less cancer treatment LOWER total doses of radiotherapy can have the same effect on breast cancer patients if the disease is caught early, latest research shows. The study was carried out by the Institute of Cancer Research in London (ICR), where Professor John Yarnold said: “We’ve shown conclusively that less can be more in breast cancer radiotherapy. Three weeks of radiotherapy is as good as five weeks.” The five-year results showed it was just as effective and safe to give women a lower total dose of radiotherapy in fewer, larger treatments than the 25-dose international standard, following primary surgery for early breast cancer. Jo Miller from West Dorset has had breast cancer, she said: “If I was to be offered less radiotherapy, I’d look back at previous experience, and want to know how it will effect my health and how it effects my survival chances 10 years down the line.” Kate Law, Cancer Research UK’s director of clinical trials said: “Women are already benefiting from the added physical and emotional wellbeing of needing fewer hospital visits for their treatment. Minimising the long-term side increasingly important.” Nearly 4,500 women across the UK have taken part in the START trials.
A 10 minute gym shortcut THE Vibrostation claims to give your muscles the equivalent of a one-hour workout in ten minutes. “It works 99.9% of the muscles in your body rather than when you go to the gym and your working about 50%,” said owner of The Little Tanning Shop in Charminster, Nikki Andrews. She is one of the first in the area to offer the service. The vibrations contract customers’ muscles replicating the body doing exercise by the customer simply standing on the plate. Vibrostation says that their plates can improve circulation and balance in addition to being a replacement to the gym. Health and Sport Lecturer at Bournemouth University, Joanne Mayor, has tried out the vibration plates: “An hour in the gym could mean absolutely anything so I’m a bit critical about that claim. The amount you get out of it in terms of toning depends on the types of activities that you are doing whilst on the plate,” she said.
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The Rock | Thursday 14 November 2013
Arts university defends contracts attack
Joe Nerssessian
ASSISTANT NEWS EDITOR
ARTS University Bournemouth has defended the use of controversial zero-hour contracts. More than 150 staff members at AUB are employed on zerohour contracts, a Freedom of Information request has found. Data revealed by the University and College Union (UCU) shows AUB employs 153 staff on the contracts which have come under scrutiny in recent months. Critics claim the contracts can exploit staff who may suffer financial uncertainty. But AUB told The Rock that the findings were “misleading” and the contracts were only used for posts with “genuinely unpredictable workloads” such as visiting tutors, models, student bank workers and Saturday Art School assistants. UCU investigated the issue after it was revealed the University of Edinburgh employed over 2,700 staff members on zero-hour contracts. A former zero-hour contract employee from another UK University called for AUB to abolish the process. The
employee, who wished to remain anonymous said: “It’s evident that it’s possible for universities to work without them. Edinburgh has recognised it needs to change and it is perfectly possible for institutions to plan our workloads better. It would be better for staff, better for students and better for education.” She claimed she was left living “hand to mouth” after being given little notice of how many hours she was to be given. UCU President Simon Renton said: “Their widespread use is the unacceptable underbelly of our colleges and universities. “Employers cannot hide behind the excuse of flexibility. This flexibility is not a two-way street and, for far too many people, it is simply a case of exploitation. “Without a guaranteed income, workers on zero-hour contracts are unable to make financial or employment plans on a year-toyear, or even month-to-month basis.” But an AUB spokesperson said: “We are aware of UCU’s position regarding zero-hour contracts within the Higher Education sector however zero-hours work differs greatly across different sectors and it is not the case that all zero-hour workers within the HE sector do not have employee status or employmenr rights.” He added that AUB visiting tutors had permanent
The UCU research revealed 53% of UK universities use zero-hour contracts, among them AUB H HAMMER contracts of employment which gave statutory employment rights, comparable benefits and continuity of employment. “Additionally, our experience is that these employees enjoy the flexibility afforded with such contracts as they often balance the work for the University with, for example, their own businesses.” The spokesperson said AUB was not aware of any visiting tutors who were unhappy about their contractual arrangments or who felt exploited. “Furthermore
the University has changed from issuing termly fixed term contracts to visiting tutors to permanent contracts. This change was undertaken after consultation process with our visiting tutor population and implemented with their explicit approval.” However an employee from another UK University, who also wishes to remain anonymous, said the contracts created a “system of apartheid in further education between zero-hour workers and those on secure contracts”.
Samaritan charity celebrates diamond anniversary Hollie Wong
DEPUTY NEWS EDITOR
THE Samaritans have celebrated their diamond anniversary in Bournemouth. To mark 60 years of success the charity went back to its roots and gathered volunteers to their local
phone kiosk, symbolising the very first call answered by the charity’s founder, Dr Chad Varah, in 1953. Branch patron Dr Andrew Mayers said it was an “absolute pleasure” to work with the charity. “It’s been a total honour to represent these guys who work so hard to relieve the stress of the people phoning all hours of the day and night. “I hope in terms of the future that we are able to carry on doing the
incredible work we do, both locally and nationally, and also because it’s an on-going thing that we are able to recruit more youngsters as well. One of our next aims is to have some recruitment fairs and get young people interested in volunteering for the Samaritans.” The anniversary event was rolled out across Britain and went ahead in Bournemouth earlier this month. Samaritan volunteers from the
Bournemouth Samaritans recently celebrated their diamond anniversary as a helpline charity
HOLLIE WONG
area gathered at the phone kiosk on Avenue Road, carried on the festivities in Bournemouth Square and then finished at the local Samaritans branch on Durrant Road. Bournemouth director Rose said: “It’s just nice to get out on such a lovely day and mingle with people because that’s what we want to do. We want to get out there and let people know t hat we’re there for them.” Rose has been volunteering for the charity for over ten years, and took over the job as Director four months ago. She said: “The wonderful thing about the Samaritans is that when everyone else is asleep, we’re still there at two o’clock in the morning. When you wake up and your world is falling apart, we’re still there,” said Rose. In 1962, the first Samaritans shop opened in the area and still stands today on Durrant Road. The charity quickly established itself as part of the local community and is now one of the town’s most prominent and recognised charities, with over 100 listening and dedicated volunteers. Marion Alborough has been volunteering for the Samaritans for the last 15 years. She said: “It’s amazing when you think how it started off. There was just Chad Varah, and now it’s developed and moved with the times.”
“You have to work harder than those on secure contracts. You work in different offices. Rooms were given to the staff on secure contracts. Once you take prepping and planning into consideration you are working five days a week for only three days pay. The pay rate then works out as below minimum wage and you can be on poverty wages.” The survey showed Bournemouth University was one of 88 institutions who said they did not use zero-hour contracts.
Women in Democracy debate at BU
BU POLITICS Society are hosting a conference about women in democracy on Friday November 15, on Lansdowne Campus. It will be held in Bournemouth University’s Executive Business Centre at 2pm. A line up of six speakers has been announced, including Dr Heather Savigny, a senior lecturer at Bournemouth University and Rachel Rogers, a Labour councillor. The speakers come from different backgrounds and experiences. “They are all women who play a crucial role in democracy,” said Alison Smith, president of the Politics Society. By focusing on gender equality, the society aims to inspire women to play a greater role in UK democracy as only 22% of MPs elected in 2010 were women, according to the House of Commons Research Papers. The Politics Society wants to increase public awareness of ways women, as well as men, can get their voices heard in democratic life. “I hope it will inspire people to get involved and stand for council,” said Alison.
6 Community focus
Thursday 14 November 2013|The Rock
WINTON BY-ELECTION:
Guide to your nearest polling station
GOOGLE MAPS
THREE councillors are elected to stand as representatives for the Winton East ward, when local elections are held. Turnout for the 2011 election was just 27.9 per cent, just over half of
Michael Goff
Labour and Co-operative
the average local election turnout for 2011, 42.6 per cent, and down on the 2007 turnout, 28.7 per cent. For the past two council terms, Winton East ward has only been represented by Conservative
councillors. The party has dominated the ward since 2007, taking control from the Lib Dems, who occupied all three seats in the 2003 election, with Jean Moore, Anson Westbrook
Mike lists his main concerns as making the streets of Winton cleaner, sorting out antisocial behaviour and student housing. He will campaign to get more resources as he feels the ward’s streets should get as much attention as the town centre in making them clean. Mike is looking to build more student accommodation, as a way to reduce the levels of anti-social behaviour in Bournemouth, which will also free up more houses for families in Winton. He also states he will oppose any cuts to road maintenance and will fight to ensure Winton East gets its fair share of funding.
and Emily Morrell-Cross. The next local elections for Bournemouth, where three more councillors will be chosen to represent the Winton East ward will be held in 2015.
Patrick Oakley Conservative
Bournemouth Council consists of 18 wards, with 53 councillors, 45 of those belonging to the Conservative party. Of the other councillors, two are Liberal Democrats, three Independent and three Labour.
Already on the board of trustees at the Bournmemouth University student union and Chair of the Winton Forum, Pat is standing in the election as he wants to do more to improve the community of Winton. Pat is keen to build the relationship between students and the rest of the Winton’s residents. He played a big part in setting up the new student warden scheme and says students should be accepted as part of the community. Pat acknowledged that people were turning to protest votes against the three main political parties and has asked the people of Winton to look beyond his Conservative badge.
Community focus 7
The Rock | Thursday 14 November 2013
The student vote dilemma
Following the resignation of Winton East councillor, Anniina Davie, the ward is holding a by-election for a new representative Michael Seymour DEPUTY EDITOR
WINTON is holding an election today – Thursday, November 14 – to replace the Conservative formercouncillor Ms Davie, who resigned from the post in September this year. Ms Davie represented a large number of students in her ward, with 18 to 25-year-olds making up 40 per cent of those within the voting age in Winton, according to census data. The seat became available after former-councillor Davie resigned for personal reasons, a spokeswoman from Bournemouth Council confirmed. Earlier this year, Ms Davie was the subject of news articles claiming she had gone off the radar and was unable to be reached. But soon after, she began appearing at
Kathleen Mortimer Independent
council meetings again. According to council records, she had only attended 40 per cent of meetings in the past year. Of the six council meetings she was unable to attend, Ms Davie sent apologies for four. A council spokeswoman said no reason for Ms Davie’s absense was given, but it is understood this was also for personal reasons. “I think it is unfortunate that when someone runs to be a councillor, they don’t sit out their tenure,” said Laurence Fear, the Ukip candidate. Conservative candidate Pat Oakley said: “I think [the council] were very patient with her.” Mr Oakley did not feel it was appropriate for him to comment further. Ms Davie won the 2011 election for the ward, winning with 709 votes, and was followed in second and third respectively by the other conservative candidates, Johann Edward and Theo Statton. Candidates standing in the Winton East by-election are: Patrick Oakley
The Winton East by-election is being held to replace one one of its three councillors (Conservative); Matthew Gillett (Liberal Democrat); Michael Goff (Labour and Co-operative); Laurence Fear (Ukip); Sandra Hale (Green) and
Kathleen is a former newspaper journalist and now works teaching English to foreign nationals. She has represented herself on multiple occasions in both legal and social issues, and said, if elected, she would like to do the same for the residents of the Winton East ward.
Kathleen Mortimer (Independent). Below you can read what issues each of the six candidates will be standing for.
Sandra Hale Green Party
Liberal Democrat
He wants to integrate first years with those in their second and third as he believes it would help them get along with other residents. Matthew also said that as a Lib Dem, he was not under a party whip, which he believes may have hindered previous Conservative candidates – the Conservative party is the only one which has a party whip at a local level.
Sandra is pleased that the residents of Winton now have a genuine alternative to the two parties. She calls this election a genuine opportunity for change.
Sandra has lived in Bournemouth since the mid-80s and worked in the NHS for a large part of her career, focusing on mental health care.
She also believes in a zero tolerance policy on illegal drugs, and said she will fight for equal rights for everyone in Winton, regardless of their background and income.
Matthew is keen to build the relationship between university students and Winton’s permanent residents.
The map (left) illustrates the churches, schools and libraries where you can find your nearest polling station to place your vote.
She describes herself as committed to the wider community and is involved in many different issues and campaigns. Some examples of these are local police, charities and churches.
Having been a victim of serious crimes, Kathleen is keen to make sure the people of Winton can get the swift justice they deserve. As part of this, she would like to see a reduction in ‘red tape’ in the police.
Matthew Gillett
H HAMMER
Laurence Fear Ukip
Laurence Fear, the 20-year-old Ukip candidate, has worked in Winton since he left secondary school. He describes himself as a classical liberal who currently works as a sales adviser. Laurence is keen to make Winton East as democratic as possible bringing more referendums to the people of Winton. As part of this focus on democracy, Laurence says he won’t accept any expenses as becoming a councillor is about improving local services.
8 news
Thursday 14 November 2013 |The Rock
Four phones a day now stolen across Dorset
Already 1,372 phones have been reported stolen this year compared to 1,470 in 2012
Continued from front “I reported it to the police and received a crime number but I
never got it back,” said Katie. Police fear the true figures of mobile phone thefts may be a lot higher as many people fail to report their phone as stolen and simply splash out on purchasing
H HAMMER
an expensive replacement for their beloved devices rather than deal with the police. Martyn Underhill, Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner, is aware of the scale of the problem and is
“very concerned about mobile phone theft in Dorset”. He urges members of the public to inform the police immediately if a theft does take place. “It is very important that people who do lose mobile phones report it to the police, particularly since iPads and iPhones have track-my-phone ability, which means we can actually find the phone a few hours after it was stolen and help us to catch the offenders. “Mobile phone theft is on my radar, it is on my agenda and I would ask people to report it as quickly as possible to the police,” said Police Crime Commissioner Mr Underhill. Across Dorset there have been several high profile incidents reported to police involving mobile phone theft and muggings in recent months. On September 19, police issued an appeal for witnesses after a woman who was involved in a traffic incident had her mobile phone stolen, as she lay injured and in pain at the side of Bournemouth town centre’s busy Holdenhurst Road in broad daylight. And a 19-year-old Bournemouth man was held to the ground by two men and repeatedly punched in
the face near Exbourne Manor on Christchurch Road at around 4.15am on Saturday August 31. The offenders then subsequently stole the man’s wallet and phone as they restrained him on the floor following the beating. February was the worst month for phone theft in Dorset this year, with 203 devices reported as stolen to police forces over the course of the period. This prompted the police to announce a public warning on how best to avoid the growing problem of phone crime. Dorset Police said people should avoid leaving mobile phones in baggy, loose pockets or a bag after several of the devices were stolen during a packed concert from Example at the Bournemouth International Centre (BIC). On one day this year a whopping 41 phones were reported stolen to police compared to a high of just 13 on a single day in 2012. Mr Underhill suggested that members of the public should be more aware of their surroundings when walking down the road holding a mobile phone to their ear or looking at the screen as these crimes are often carried out by opportunistic thieves.
Bulgarian anti-government protests reach Bournemouth Anna P. Mazzini
ANGRY students claimed the Bulgarian government was destroying their country during a demonstration at Bournemouth University. Around 20 students from every school across all years gathered on Talbot Campus, bringing with them Bulgarian flags and leaflets. They also posted pictures online to show their support for the #OccupySU movement, which was started by Sofia University (SU) students on October 23, as part of a wider anti-government protest. “We are showing support to the students from our country who have been really active in the protests against the government that robs and destroys our country,” said Kerrie Dimitrova, a 19-year-old Communication and Media student at BU. “The main organisers are students, who believe that the intelligent young people with education must have the right to determine their own future. “We are protesting against the actions of the current cabinet, which weaken the relative wellbeing of our country. They are about to borrow enormous loans, and this will have a huge impact on our lives. We will be the ones to pay for them. The decisions
that they make are completely out of touch with the people’s needs and the present situation in our country,” said Kerrie. Bulgarian students from around the world stepped into the protest, making the most of social networks in order to be heard. The idea of an international support to the protest was originated on Facebook, where dozens of events were created around the world. “It’s the first time such a thing has happened. It’s like a student revolution,” said BU Student Lyuboslav Lyutskanov, who took part in the event at BU. Many Bulgarian people move to the UK, and BU Bulgarian Society has more than 110 members. “[The] UK gives me a lot more opportunities to fully develop my potential,” said Kerrie Dimitrova. “Bulgarian higher education is quite neglected and a bit corrupted,” said Yordan Zhivkov Angelov. “And lecturers get paid to make people pass,” added Lyuboslav Lyutskanov. After the previous government resigned in February this year following mass demonstrations, a new left-wing cabinet was elected in late May. But the concerns about austerity, living costs and education are still strong in the poorest country of the European Union. Most of the students agreed on the fact that the living conditions are getting worse and that the possibilities for young people are getting fewer. The new government was fragile
Bulgarian students at BU protesting against the actions of their current government from the very beginning. The Socialists had to form a coalition government with the Turkish minority party - whose members were blamed for the death of seven people in a terrorist attack - to get a bare majority. Barely two weeks later the protests started. The last straw broke when allegations of corruption and
shady ties between politicians and businessmen rose after controversial media mogul Delyan Peevski was named as head of DANS, the Bulgarian state security agency, in June. Since then, and even after Peevski resigned, hundreds of protesters have been constantly demonstrating in Sofia. But there
ANNA P. MAZZINI
has been no significant reaction from the government in response to the demonstrations. At the end of October, Bulgarian students took part in the protest, hundreds of them blocking the access to Sofia University, calling for the Prime Minister Plamen Oresharki to resign and asking for early election.
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OPINION
Thursday 14 November 2013 | The Rock
Editorial Sensationalist stories The War
Tom Beasley
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Batten down the hatches, they said. Remain indoors, they said. There’s a storm coming, they said, and it’s going to be on par with the hurricane of 1987. It wasn’t. Now the lawn chairs have been righted, the gnomes stood back up with brand new fishing rods and the giant beach ball that was running loose around London has been burst. Left to reflect, it seems that the Great Storm of 2013 was yet another case of the news media blowing everything out of proportion only for it to turn out be a lot of hot air. It’s almost identical to the recent media storm (snigger) around the invasion of our country by the
of spiders and storms on Words
eight-legged harbingers of death known as ominously as the false widow spider. Throughout the late part of the summer and early autumn, outlets such as the Daily Star and Daily Mirror have made it their mission to publish a daily horror story about the apparent effects of these horrific beasties. The next, they’ve made a man’s leg explode, terrorised a baby or brutally murdered a beloved pet rabbit. Every single one of these articles has been emblazoned with words like “deadly”, “lethal” or “killer” as if they’re describing Hannibal Lecter, rather than a small, relatively docile arachnid. The point is that these spiders theoretically have the power to kill, and it is that makes them inherently newsworthy. The storm could theoretically have caused destruction across the south coast of the UK, and that also gave enough
value to hang the news agenda on for an entire 48-hour period. The false widow spider has been in the UK for well over a hundred years. In that time, no deaths have been attributed to its bite. Bearing in mind that wasp stings kill between two to nine people every year, this supposedly new threat suddenly doesn’t seem all that dangerous. Like wasps, the false widow spider is only really dangerous if you are allergic to its venom, or your bite gets infected. A single bite is unlikely to kill you, especially if you are able to get medical treatment quickly or are blessed with a sense of proportion. The tabloids will whip up anything into a frenzy if it sells papers. As circulations go down at an alarming rate, equal and opposite desperation is forced to occur from editors. Killer storms and deadly spiders will always drag people to the newsstands and there is no law against sensationalism. Now that’s a kind of press regulation that I’d quite like to see.
Armchair anarchist Chris Fay
OPINIONS EDITOR
The Fallen Remembering veterans of forgotten wars
10
Education Strikes disrupt students, but is there a point?
10
opinonseditor @bournemouthrock.co.uk
I never liked Russell Brand. His style of comedy always struck me as a Camden Hipster cross breed of Pete Doherty and the Artful Dodger. So when I heard second-hand reports of his call to arms in front of Jeremy Paxman, a glimmer of hope shot through me. Perhaps this clown prince of unkempt hair was more than he seemed. On the surface, Brand calls for the majestic and glorious change envisioned by revolutionaries throughout history. But like most elements of modern pop culture, it is only on the surface. Brand attempts to inspire revolution by highlighting social and political ills that have been named and shamed for years. Not to take away from his commendable work with people suffering from drug addiction, but his infantile rhetoric would be great if he did a damn thing to help politically. He is an armchair anarchist. To those unfamiliar with the pejoratives of the left, an armchair anarchist spouts revolution, calls for insurrection and cries for rebellion, all from the comfort and more importantly the safety of their own home. The armchair anarchist does not vote. “If voting worked, it
Russell Brand preaches apathetically enthusiastic revolt YOUTUBE would be illegal,” they cry from small gatherings in Starbucks in the middle of a G8 protest and on message boards and online forums. This breed of political ‘activism’ is quite attractive to the fashionably socially-aware. Requiring no real effort or input, broad and grand ideals and themes can be proclaimed without any action behind them. The manifesto of the armchair anarchist is a collection of quotes from Marx, Guevara and Chomsky, copy and pasted into Twitter #Revolution. Don’t confuse the armchair anarchist with the hacktivist. Those cyber-punks put their keyboards and internet connections behind the rhetoric, and actually try and change something. In calling the youth who follow him to adopt this brand of politically charged apathy, he is removing the purchasing power of a rightfully disenfranchised generation. Obviously the Tories, Labour
or the Liberal Democrats do not represent the political change he is calling for, but there are parties that do fight for his views. They are the Socialist Party, the Socialist Workers Party, the Pirate Party, the Libertarian Party and even the Green Party. How do you help these parties create change? You vote for them. If you have been disenfranchised and feel the establishment does not represent you, agreeing to have nothing to do with it is negligent abuse of your society and country. By not voting at all, you are not involved. You are an armchair anarchist.Voting is the start. People in far less politically liberated parts of the world die for this right. Then comes protest: marches, sitins, strikes and boycotts. If all else fails, there’s the option of armed revolt. But let’s be honest, if it comes to armed insurrection, how do you think Russell Brand would fair against a Challenger tank?
Adam Trimby COLUMNIST
Today is another one of those days where ‘common sense has literally taken a beating’. Now, this isn’t a satirical look at the failings of Cameron, Miliband or that floppyhaired fellow Boris. Nor is it a crusade against the corporation fat cats and the media mogul serpents. That’s right ladies and gentlemen - Mr. Murdoch has escaped the wrath of criticism for once this week because the printed and spoken has a new evil. Hopefully some of you reading this are wondering how common sense can take a ‘literal beating’. Surely that can’t actually happen – can it? Wouldn’t that make it metaphorical? Well not according to the Oxford English Dictionary (OED). Now the word ‘literally’ can be used to portray something metaphorical or metaphysical. “Boggled-mind springs and head ‘literally’ in pieces on floor.” Sorry for the gobbledygook (don’t panic! It’s in the OED), but that was just some artistic prose – very poor prose at that – to get one’s point across. Words have in-built, presupposed meanings – or definitions if you will – to help make the language more articulate and, above all, accurate when communicating. Changing those meanings because of malpractice creates an ambiguity within the language that could really affect modern day communication. In recent years there has been an influx of people using the word ‘literally’ in a way that often means metaphorically and this is why the OED has called for a change. Would it not be more accurate to regard it as some undereducated people using the word incorrectly or out of context, than the community of English speakers changing the meaning? If a French person was speaking English and used a wrong word, you wouldn’t take that as a new meaning, you would simply correct them. Shouldn’t this be the first step? Not changing the definition of the word. We should understand that the young minds in this country are being undervalued and poorly educated as highlighted in a study by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). It looked at the numeracy and literacy levels of 16 to 24-yearolds, and showed that England came 21st for numeracy and 22nd for literacy in the world out of a possible 24. When you can see other nations excelling, it makes you wonder why we lag so far behind. So direct all questions to Secretary of State for Education, Michael Gove. He will ‘literally’ straighten this all out.
10 opinion Remembering the fallen of a forgotten war Chris Fay
The Rock | Thursday 14 November 2013
Syria: why we should intervene Sonia Devji
OPINIONS EDITOR
Remembrance Day has come and gone, and though poppies were worn and money collected, the true impact of the day is lost on some of the younger generation. The day was originally established to remember the fallen soldiers of World War I. A war that has become lost to memory and almost completely ignored by Hollywood in favour of World War II and Vietnam. 5,525,000 British and Commonwealth soldiers fought in the war, 1,115,597 of them are now amongst the 22,477,500 killed, wounded or missing in action from the Entente Powers. Many of those soldiers were boys as young as 12 years old. They enlisted to die over imperialist disputes in a war which certainly did not end all wars. The tragedy of this war must never be forgotten, and the men who gave their lives must not die as faceless names on the cold wall of a memorial, or as the nameless “Glorious Dead” on the side of a cenotaph. This year also marks the 50th anniversary of the United Kingdom’s involvement in the Korean War. The fact that the UK was involved in this war comes as a surprise to most. 14,198 soldiers from the UK and Commonwealth fought in defence of the Korean people against Soviet agression.. For this act the South Koreans are eternally grateful, and it is one that the North will never forgive. The ones who seem to have forgotten are the British people themselves. The mournful truth is that thousands of soldiers who fought in that war and survived are now dying of old age. Some are forgetting the brave acts they performed - the battles in which they took part and the men with whom they served. The Falklands, a conflict that took part in what is very much living memory, is incredibly misunderstood, and to a large number of the British youth it is completely unknown. As Iraq and Afghanistan winds down, the men and women who served in these conflicts face an uncertain future under Army 2020 and other reshuffles of the armed forces. They too must be remembered and though it is important to support the veterans and soldiers of current wars and conflicts, those that have fallen out of vogue should not be neglected.
Preparing an intervention in one country based on the outcome of another generalises the circumstances and effects of a civil conflict. Quite frequently, the impact of an intervention in Syria is placed on a playing field alongside the Iraq war, whereby the aftermath is generalised as an economic disaster. Firstly, how can we possibly put a price on the life of masses of innocent people? Secondly, why has help for Syria been tainted by the failures of the Iraq war? I am not ignorant to the consequences of the inevitable clashes it causes when a western democracy infiltrates a Middle Eastern country. The collision between moral and social ethics makes for an inevitable act of violence. The underlying point here is that the Muslim world has many conflicts and tensions in its history, especially with the political revolutions of the Arab Spring. The West can never understand the cultural politics of the East fully, and perhaps in this situation many argue to let Syria determine its own destiny. However, I cannot shy away from the grim statistics of 110,000 people dead (Huffington Post, 2013) and 2 million people (UNCHR, 2013) who have become refugees. Personally, I do not think a military intervention should be aimed at the punishment of Bashar al-Assad; rather at creating a universal message to any other leader planning to use chemical
The Syrian CIvil War is one of the most complex conflicts affecting the Middle East PRESS ASSOCIATION weapons or massacre their people. No, military force is never the ideal approach to such a delicate issue. However after the failure of a peaceful intervention, more drastic measures should come. You can argue that in a somewhat recessive culture a peaceful intervention is by no means possible: a leader capable of slaughtering his own people would show no mercy upon an outsider. Intervening could then result in empowering radical jihadists which would increase the death toll. This is where somebody usually brings in the argument; ‘What about our soldiers dying over an issue that was not ours to begin with?’. I agree that any man’s life is no more superior to another’s. But if a country decides on political empathy
to invade, as harsh as it sounds, troops know what they are signing themselves up for when they give their life to the army. Though is it just about the few men we send into Syria? Iran is a strong ally of Syria and Bashar alAssad, who have support from both Russia and China which spreads outside votes in the United Nations Security Council. It took one assassin to kill Franz Ferdinand which set off a chain of events that led to World War . We should question whether or not a small civil war controlled by military intervention could escalate into World War III. Furthermore, if we get involved with Syria now will we find ourselves trapped in finding an entirely new political order? Does it
put pressure on us to help in every single civil war to come? Are we using this humanitarian crisis as an excuse to exert power upon a vulnerable country? How would we feel is Saudi Arabia were concerned over the UK’s trident, and felt it was necessary to disarm us? Are we peacemakers? However, a domino effect of genocide will occur if we simply ignore global atrocities. One massacre will lead onto another, creating a chain effect for the unfortunate, defenceless people of Syria. I don’t know what intervention will look like, whether it is peaceful or military. I am seeing what non-intervention looks like and I do not know which is worse.
Don’t strike, get back to work Oliver Hill COLUMNIST
This time of year is when we all start to feel the squeeze as energy companies commonly announce unpopular increases in their tariff prices while posing as innocent bystanders, helplessly pointing the finger of blame towards the oil and gas barons. Another timely tradition is the tendency for public sector workers to go on strike as their pay packets continue to be frozen solid, while the government dithers about cutting the national debt. I walked past one such demonstration the other day on my way into university. When I say “demonstration” what I actually mean is a group of people wearing high-viz vests,
drinking tea and occupying a public walkway littered with flyers. I loathe strikes. Strikes are completely pointless. Strikes achieve nothing. Strikes make those who take part in them appear as lazy, feckless and the enemies of society. By all means take action if you disagree with something or feel you deserve better; I do almost all the time. But for goodness sake do it in a way that is likely to get you somewhere. I found it incredible that the people loitering at the main entrance of a university are the very same lecturers, academics and teachers that educate and mentor the students. Surely they couldn’t honestly believe that the best way to get paid more was to get in other people’s way, waste paper and eat endless amounts of biscuits. I expected better of them. Perhaps then it’s not
the choice of the individuals to go on strike but the unions to which they belong, in this case University and College Union (UCU), Unite and Unison. Unions have set about this call to arms because they rightly state that the pay of their members isn’t keeping up with the ballooning cost of living. I’m sorry but that’s the same for all of us, whether we are professors, students, shop workers, electricians or anyone else. The cost of living is going up and wages are not, that is an undeniable fact of the British economy now and it is a big problem. The solution however, is not to take industrial action. It is the theoretical job of a union to amplify the voices of its members. Except in the case of the education strikes that’s not what has happened at all. University employers have come out saying that an overwhelming
majority of staff are content with the one per cent pay rise that was on the table. That’s more than any private sector worker is likely to get soon. I say they should have put down their placards, picked up the scattered and discarded leaflets around them, accepted the offer and returned to work. I fail to see what any public sector worker is making a fuss about when they strike. When times are good, they do all right. That’s not to say that they’re freeloaders because that would be grossly inaccurate and the work of the public sector is an astronomically important one. But like all of us they need to take the good times with the bad, the fair pay of yesterday with the arguably less fair, frozen pay of today and instead of striking, look forward to the defrosting of pay packets tomorrow.
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The Rock | Thursday 14 November 2013
FEATURES
Will the internet kill the TV star? The rise in online shows, such as Breaking Bad, are highlighting a change in viewing attitudes, but is television now in danger? Jessica McComish
Going out
Our guide to the best places in Bournemouth
12
Gaza Strip Eyewitness report from a region of unrest
14
featureseditor @bournemouthrock.co.uk
In the wake of one of the most popular television programmes of recent years, it’s interesting to note that the majority of us didn’t watch Breaking Bad when it originally aired. Following an unsuccessful late-night slot on Channel 5, no UK channel wanted to take on the trials and tribulations of Walter White (pictured right). As more and more people became addicted to Breaking Bad, Netflix was the only media platform providing the UK with the series online. Without it, the audience would have had to turn to illegal streaming of the show. Netflix was founded in 1997 and introduced streaming in 2007. It has gained over 40 million subscribers in 40 countries worldwide, making it the most prominent internet television service. With this number of subscriptions they can not only afford to stream an impressive back catalogue of old and new popular shows and films, but also make their own. Netflix originals such as Orange is the New Black and House of Cards have not only been greatly received by audiences, but also by award academies. House of Cards won three Primetime Emmy awards in 2013, competing with large television network shows with set time slots. If you are willing to pay the fee, internet-based providers such as LoveFilm Instant and Netflix allow you to ‘binge watch’ their selection of films and TV programmes to your heart’s content. It is an increasingly popular way of watching your favourite shows, meaning one series (or more) can be consumed in just one or two sittings. You can also re-watch shows you’ve long since forgotten such as Buffy the Vampire Slayer or The West Wing. ‘Binge viewing’ has become an increasingly popular approach to watching TV. While this way of viewing can kill time and get a series finished quickly, it becomes more of a shortlived enjoyment. There’s no waiting to find out what happens, so anticipation
of future plot developments is significantly reduced. Those cliffhangers that the writers may have agonised over are reduced to just a quick click on the ‘next episode’ button. However, this is a conscious decision, a personal choice. Some may love the ability to speed through a programme; others may choose to take their time. But this is a choice that regular television doesn’t allow. But is television really on its way out? With the changing media, there is an argument that we no longer need the set in order to enjoy its
cliff-hangers “thatThose the writers may have agonised over are reduced to just a quick click on the ‘next episode’ button.
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content. Thanks to catch-up services, the vast amount of television we have can be enjoyed at any time that’s convenient on almost any device we own. We no longer work ourselves around the TV guide; it has evolved to fit around us. Around 10% of programmes are watched from recordings or via catch-up services, and this percentage is almost certain to rise. This does, however, reduce the number of ‘water-cooler moments’ and the discussion of shared cultural events, including popular TV. People watching different things at different times means we could lose some of that shared cultural experience. Like catch-up services, the beauty of Netflix is the flexibility of when you can watch it. However, it could be argued that it can be more of an effort. It’s not as easy as channel flicking; you need to know exactly what you want to watch and have a device to watch it on. Sometimes channel hopping can unearth some gems you may never have noticed before. Online viewing means a search for something in particular. For some, watching television on a laptop or tablet is unappealing. However, hooking a laptop up to a larger screen is easy, so missing details on tiny screens is a problem
Breaking Bad is leading the change towards online viewing consigned to the now distant past, before choice was such a big factor. Netflixw is beginning to merge with our televisions. Streaming directly from set-top boxes is a way of making the new internet television as simple as the traditional TV watching. While you would still need an account to view its content, it is perhaps easier to access. If television and the internet work in harmony, sites such as Netflix and LoveFilm Instant will become more of an anytime subscription channel much like the services Sky already has in place. It’s easy to claim that with changes in technology, older forms will suffer. In terms of television, as long as there’s quality content, it’s unlikely to die out. The BBC formed in 1922 and soon it will be celebrating its 100th birthday. It existed before the
NETFLIX
popularisation of television and will probably remain long after it has gone. It focuses on the quality of its production and what it believes the audience will get out of it. This shows that as long as the content is good, it will reach its audience, regardless of the medium. Just because changes happen, this doesn’t mean we should start digging graves for the formats we used to like. Arguing that the internet is going to take over completely may be a step too far; it is enhancing and expanding our enjoyment of the field of television. Adapting to the new is important, especially for the entertainment industry. Having more platforms to enjoy it on is surely a benefit to telly addicts and sacrificing one or the other doesn’t have to be a choice to make.
12 features
Thursday 14 November 2013 | The Rock
Discover the best of Bournemouth Looking for a night out in Bournemouth? Fancy a bite to eat? Here are some of The Rock’s top recommendations
1. Aruba Best sea view
This is a bar for those who like fancy and colourful drinks in an exotic atmosphere, and are willing to pay a bit more for it. Drinks can be enjoyed on the balcony overlooking the Channel or inside the bar where you can also taste their delicious food. The crowd is more varied than that of the cheaper clubs which mostly attract students. Music is entertaining and up to date; quiet enough so you can talk but still loud enough to dance the night away.
2. Russell-Cotes Museum Best museum
One of the most unique museums on the South Coast is located on the cliff top in Bournemouth, with an entrance through a beautiful, Japanese garden. Inside, you will find a variety of styles presented in sculptures, paintings and other artwork from around the world and across the centuries. The building creates a special atmosphere, with a mixture of both public and private museums. It will keep you in for hours, searching for that one piece you will treasure the most.
3. Old Fire Station Best dancefloor
Bournemouth has a plethora of nightclubs with one of its biggest and best being the Old Fire Station. Located in Lansdowne on Holdenhurst Road, the Old Fire Station has two floors, which play both a mixture of good time oldies and the biggest hits in the charts. It is ideally placed, being only a short walk from the train station, a 24-hour Subway sandwich store and three takeaway shops to feed the late night munchies. The building is a Grade II listed ex-central fire station and was transformed into a nightclub in 1995. Despite being converted into a modern dance haven, some of the building’s previous features have been retained. The fireman’s pole for example, which is 14m in length, goes through all four storeys and is the longest England has kept.
4. What Alice Found Best independent store
An Alice in Wonderland-themed vintage boutique in Pokesdown, owned by fashionista Nicki Grainger. With pearls spilling from dresser drawers and fairy lit changing rooms, this shop is a fusion of art and fashion, offering an exciting alternative to the high street. You get the feeling Alice must have experienced as she stumbled down the hole into Wonderland.
5. Waterstones Best book store
There’s a reason that Waterstones is arguably the biggest name in UK bookstores – it’s the best. Their selection of titles is unparalleled, covering just about any topic that you care to mention at decent prices. Whether you’re after a study textbook, the latest pulpy crime thriller or even another dose of Fifty Shades ‘mummy porn’, the UK’s largest book chain has everything you could need.
6. Days Best Chinese
Day’s is the place for every main food group known to man. With an all-you-can-eat buffet of Chinese, Indian, roast, pizza, deserts and more, there’s something for everyone. Located in St Peter’s Quarter, almost a third of the floor space is occupied by food tables. So why not go for a bit of everything or get a plate of every type? Noise levels can be high at times but at Day’s you won’t be talking much. Decorations range from a beautiful water feature at the entrance, to fake seafood on the roof, giving character that comes together with mouth-watering smell of international cuisine.
7. South Coast Roast Best coffee shop
If you’re a person who resents chain coffee houses, loves home cooked food and enjoys good music, then look no further than the new Boscanova run South Coast Roast in Richmond Hill. A place to escape the elements during winter and relax with a beer in summer, South Coast Roast barista’s make you feel welcome whatever the occasion. You may also leave knowing more about coffee than when you arrived – I certainly did.
8. 60 million postcards Best place to take a date, Best burger & Best pub
Located in the heart of Bournemouth, this indie-styled pub features one of the most relaxing, community-friendly atmospheres in town. During the day, it works as a restaurant serving American diner food, but when the night sets in it becomes a funky-styled venue that constantly features gigs and DJs. Some of its most attractive characteristics are its postcardpacked bar and very tasty cocktails. Drinks are quite pricey, but overall it’s a recommendable place if you have a few quid to spare and like your music indie.
9. Zoukinis Best vegetarian
Zoukinis in Westbourne is one of the only vegetarian and vegan restaurant in Bournemouth area. It uses locally sourced produce and the warm atmosphere will never let you down even if you are a confirmed meat eater.
10. Bellagio’s Best Italian/Pizza
If stone baked pizzas, fresh pasta, and low prices sounds good to you, then Bellagio’s should catch your attention. Bellagio’s pizza and pasta on Wimborne Road offers all of the above with the option of ‘bring your own booze’. A warm atmosphere and friendly staff awaits any student group that visits this family run Italian restaurant. With starters averages £2.50 and main courses starting at £6.50 Bellagio’s is an ideal place to visit, if your desire to cook is lacking on a Friday or Saturday night.
11. Sade Turkish bakery Best bakery
Charminster is certainly not short of places to eat, but one establishment stands out amongst the rest is Sade Turkish bakery. While of course providing a variety of breads, its best known for their signature lahmacun, the Turkish pizza with lamb and salad wrapped up that will leaving you craving more.
12. Joy Best Indian
Whether you’re a lover of the spice of a Vindaloo or the rich, creamy taste of a Tikka Masala, this wonderful restaurant in Charminster Road stands out as the best in contemporary Indian cuisine. With a stylish interior design, Joy offers customers dress-up food at dress-down prices, while the availability of a takeaway service means you can enjoy it all from the comfort of your own home. A must visit for all curry lovers.
13. Nippon Inn Best Japanese
Nippon Inn in Charminster Road not only has a brilliant pun in its name but a friendly atmosphere teamed with outstanding food which, though a little bit more expensive than student budget frozen pizza, is still value for money. If you have a love for cheesy Japanese pop songs, trying something new and a plethora of beautiful tasting authentic food then Nippon Inn really is the place for you. Dishes that stand out are the Miso Ramen (perfect lunch time hangover cure), the Chicken Katsu Curry (for the less adventurous) and their sushi which stands up well against other leading competitors.
14. The CrookedBook Best second-hand store This gem of Boscombe is a place where Saturday shoppers can browse the vintage bookshop as well as sip on a Chai latte; surely the perfect combination on a cold day. Located on Christchurch Road, The Crooked Book is open 10-5 daily and helpful staff are always on hand to help you browse their stock or engage in conversation. This is truly a perfect place for friends and couples to meet on weekends.
15. Urban Reef Best seafood
Located on Boscombe promenade, Urban Reef is an informal bar, café, deli and restaurant. This unique location offers panoramic views over the Bournemouth Bay and to the Purbecks area as well as great food.
16. Coriander Best Mexican
Claiming to be the oldest independent restaurant in Bournemouth Coriander provides a relaxed atmosphere and value for money. You better have an empty stomach when sitting down at their cosy tables, as they don’t do things by halves and the range of choice will leave you with little restraint.
14 features
Thursday 14 November 2013 | The Rock
Living amongst the dead Palestine is one of the most war-torn places on earth, with vicious religious conflict raging there for decades, claiming the lives of millions. Julia Denni visited the area this summer and saw the effect of violence on the region
In Gaza, pictures of the unbearable suffering can tell a thousand words ALL IMAGES BY JULIA DENNI
Julia Denni
In July, I took part in a convoy of media workers and activists to the Gaza Strip, aiming to restore balance in the way the IsraeliPalestinian conflict is reported in the mainstream media by producing content from the Strip itself. This was my first encounter with a conflict that I had heard of my entire life without really understanding its extent or the day-to-day impact for Palestinian people. This experience was a real eye-opener for me, shaking all of the misconceptions I had about the conflict. I visited a number of families during my short stay there, but there is one place that I will always remember. In the afternoon of the first day of Ramadan, the convoy travelled to two cemeteries which struck me by their contrast. The Gaza War Cemetery was clean and perfectly maintained as a place of heaven in a war-torn city. Financed by European countries, it honours the Palestinians who fought during the first and second world wars. The perfectly aligned rectangular grave stones looked similar to the ones you can find in the war cemeteries of Normandy, in the North East of France, carrying the same feeling of peace and respect for those who fell in combat. We then visited a second location, the Almaamadani Muslim
cemetery. This time, there was no tree-lined avenue, no gate and no green grass. The rubbish replaced the flowers and the putrefying smell of the piles of trash was overwhelming. Some of the poorest families in Gaza settled in this place after they were displaced from their homes during the Nakba in 1948. They share things resembling houses with up to 20 members of their families as well as animals including horses, sheep, goats, chicken and ducks, living in terrible conditions. On the ground outside one of the homes lay a children’s book from the The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East. On the walls by the staircase of another house, the Arabic alphabet was written beside the English alphabet. Children here don’t have much access to education apart from that which is provided by the UN. Struck by the living of conditions of these people, I felt a compelling need to come back to the cemetery and hear more of their stories. It didn’t take long before the children noticed our presence. Emerging from behind the graves, they formed circles around us, turning our visit into an event. We were soon surrounded and our only escape was to enter people’s homes. Four families invited us into their homes that day. In the first one, the mother, Ra’eessa Mahmoud Ahmed Al-Aarbil, 52, refused to be photographed, so we listened to her story. More than 20 members
of her family shared the same roof, where four children had perished due to water leaks and the harsh conditions of living in such a place. When we visited, one of her daughter-in-laws was recovering from a ceasarian-section in a room above what could be called a stable shared by horses, sheep and chicken. The baby was just four days old and she was concerned for his future. All of her sons were unemployed and one of them had cancer. He was only 24. The only
Emerging from “ behind the graves,
the children formed circles around us, turning our visit into an event
”
source of income for the family came from transportation they provided with their horses. She wore her pain on her face and had barely any hope. This house was by far the worse we visited that day. Her family, just as the others, was displaced during the Nakba, and fled to the Gaza Strip. When they arrived, the only place where they could afford to live was the cemetery. When we asked her how the people of Gaza City treated them, she replied that people outside consider the people living in the cemetery as dead. Living amongst the dead. We then visited the house of
Amena, an arched 80 year-old woman. Their house was made of several rooms built around a concrete courtyard. We gathered in the middle. Three members of the family suffered from lifethreatening diseases, including HIV. A third family welcomed us into their home and we sat down with father, mother, grandparents and children in a courtyard shadowed by a grapevine. The grandfather, 85 year-old Hassan Mohammed Abu Asser, who only had one eye, was wearing a typical white ghutra and moved around with a walking stick. He grabbed my attention during my last visit, when he was sitting on a grave as we walked out of the cemetery. He had an aura that you couldn’t miss. Father of the family, Abu Fathi, told us how he had been tortured by the Israel Defense Forces during the Second Intifada. The scars on the back of his head were the only remaining evidence of his ordeal. This treatment left him with severe mental health issues, including schizophrenia and depression. He displayed the medication he has to take on the floor in front of us. All of the time, his wife and children surrounded him. As soon as we walked into the property of the last family we
visited, we were distracted by posters of a young man plastered across the forecourt. Curious, we asked what it was all about and who he was, only to find out that it was their 22-year-old son who had died only a couple of weeks earlier in an explosion caused by a gas leak in the tunnel he was working in. Usually able to hold my emotions when reporting on even the most tragic stories, I felt visibly shaken. I am the same age as their son was and it suddenly put everything into perspective. I am unbelievably lucky to be born in a democracy, lucky to live in a peaceful country, lucky to have a family and lucky to be free. Working in the tunnels is one of the only options the Gazan youth has when facing high unemployment and hard living conditions due to the restrictions imposed by Israel and the war. The father owns a taxi, but the vehicle had not moved in weeks because of the rise of petrol costs due to the riots taking place in Egypt at the time of my visit. So it stays parked in the forecourt until things get better – if they do. These stories are those of people who have been denied their rights for more than 65 years, a sinister anniversary for people longing for their land.
The Rock | Thursday 14 November 2013
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16 features
Thursday 14 November 2013 | The Rock
What’s On: Your entertainment guide Jimmy Carr, Jack Dee and Stereophonics headline this months live entertainment across Dorset. Here are our pick of the best
MUSIC The Orb 14.11.2013 The Old Firestation Nineties electronic group The Orb are to shake the walls of the Old Firestation as their 25th anniversary tour comes to Bournemouth. Continuing to perform their own unique style of ambient house, this is Kraftwerk-inspired dance music that begs you to get moving. The Old Firestation’s vibrant atmosphere mixed with this chilled out vibe will be a night to remember.
Ludovico Einaudi 15.11.2013 BIC Windsor Hall Italian piano maestro Ludovico Einaudi brings his BAFTAwinning music and 11-piece band to Dorset with new show In a Time Lapse. Famed for scoring films like This is England and French hit The Intouchables, Einaudi is a diverse talent and this is a show that classical enthusiasts should not miss.
The Sensational 60’s Experience 15.11.2013 BIC Windsor Hall Brand new for 2013, this explosive show packs in all of the quintessential hits of the 60s, performed by such icons of the era as Herman’s Hermits and Chris Farlowe. The thrilling line-up packs in many of the decade’s biggest songs and is an authentic evening to take you swinging back in time.
The Fratellis 17.11.2013 O2 Academy Bournemouth After a five year hiatus, Scottish rockers The Fratellis have arrived back on the scene with a bang. Following new album We Need Medicine, their bluesy rock sound hits Bournemouth. Crowd-pleasing hits like Chelsea Dagger and Mistress Mabel will definitely have you jumping and welcoming the band back onto the indie scene.
Royal Marines’ Christmas Spectacular 21.11.2013 Bournemouth Pavillion Theatre
Jimmy Carr’s “Gagging Order” heading to Bournemouth PA
COMEDY Jimmy Carr: Gagging Order 17.11.2013 BIC Windsor Hall The master of the filthy, pithy one liner brings his unique brand of stand-up to Bournemouth with his Gagging Order tour. Carr’s comedy pushes the boundaries of taste and decency, wrapped up in a ball of natural charm and charisma. And who can forget that laugh?
Jack Dee 21.11.2013 Poole Lighthouse Curmudgeonly comic Jack Dee is back on the road after a six year absence. If you’re into deadpan gags and the hilarity of misery, then Dee is your comic. Whether you know him for Lead Balloon, Live at the Apollo or even Celebrity Big Brother, Dee remains one of the most reliable comedians around.
The world famous Band of Her Majesty’s Royal Marines bring 2013 to an end with an evening of festive military splendour. Performing a mixture of Christmas hits, big band smashes and military marches, the group cater for audiences of all ages with their show-stopping musical display.
Stereophonics 22.11.2013 BIC Windsor Hall Welsh rockers Stereophonics are back on the stage for a 12-date UK tour after new album Graffiti On The Train climbed to number 3 in the UK charts. The singers, famed for their show-stopping single Dakota, bring an infectious energy to the stage and are sure to have you singing along. Supporting the band is pop singer Josh Weller who has also played alongside the likes of Mumford and Sons.
Bill Wyman and the Rhythm Kings 29.11.2013 Poole Lighthouse Former Rolling Stones bassist Bill Wyman fronts this blues rock group, embarking on an autumn tour of the UK with guest star Maria Muldaur. Stones fans and old rockers will love this show, which takes Wyman and his group back to their musical roots.
Fratellis to play O2 Academy next week
PA
DANCE Black Ball 16.11.2013 Bournemouth Pavillion Theatre For those looking for a bit of a party in the lead-up to the festive period, Black Ball could be for you. The event is this year celebrating its 20th anniversary as one of Bournemouth’s biggest party nights. Any kind of dress, from stylish to casual or even fancy is welcome as long as its black.
One Moment in Time 24.11.2013 Bournemouth Pavillion Theatre This new show from The Western Association of Ballet Schools is the latest in their array of annual dance spectaculars and sure to raise the roof of the Pavilion Theatre. Featuring over 200 performers from affiliated dance schools, this performance is choreographed around a number of important historical events.
THEATRE A Christmas Carol 28-30.11.2013 Bournemouth Pavillion Theatre This brand new musical adaptation of Charles Dickens’s festive bestseller is the perfect night out in the build-up to Christmas. Playing the Bournemouth Pavilion for three nights, this is a spellbinding show that is sure to make you laugh, cry and sing along, whether you’re young and optimistic or as old and jaded as Scrooge himself. A classic for all the family to enjoy.
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The Rock | Thursday 14 November 2013
Joseph Kent I am a recent journalism graduate from Bournemouth University, trying to find my way in the world. Street style photography has been a passion of mine ever since I was 18 years-old and inspired by Scott Schuman’s “The Sartorialist”. Back then, I was shyly photographing people with a compact digital camera for an insignificant blog. Now that blog has entered its fourth year, and I freelance for such companies as Mr Porter, WGSN and the Daily Express.
Pull focus My favourite photograph My favourite photograph is one I captured of Natalie Wall, online fashion editor at Cosmpolitan UK, during one of the rare sunny moments at London Fashion Week SS14. The lighting was beautiful, and the wind caught the hem of her coat at just the right moment.
An early photograph One of my earliest street style ventures with my new Canon 6D was Graduate Fashion Week, where I bumped into familiar faces from the neighbouring Arts University Bournemouth. Twinks, a talented stylist, went on to win the Diversity NOW! Photography Award that day.
One that inspires me My most inspiring image is not street style, but rather a very recent photo from my graduation. Without the encouragement of my coursemates and lecturers, I would not have come as far as I have done. This photo reminds me of their support and fond memories at university.
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SPORT
The Rock | Thursday 14 November 2013
Ben Fisher
SPORTS EDITOR
Visit of England Under-16’s
It is a pleasure to be able to write an editorial on the positives of grassroots sport. None more so than a trip to a family club, AFC Bournemouth, to see England U16’s show their talents in front of the Sky cameras. Youth sport has been a heated topic for a while, long with underlying issues over funding. These, of course, do still remain - as recognised by Sam Thompson in this issue - however the opportunities and importance of giving youth a chance would appear to be the healthiest it has been for a while. Dan Hunter, a former Bournemouth University student spoke last year to the Rock about funding difficulties stopping him from making further appearances on a global stage. Youth is all the go though, it would seem. Even considering the managerial appointments of Shaun Derry at Notts County and Lee Johnson at Oldham, as former professional players, who have been handed jobs in the third tier of English football.
Stars of the future
England’s latest crop of youngsters obey a minute’s silence at the Goldsands Stadium last week AFCB
Down the road, the Cherries were quick to sign up youngster Harry Cornick from Christchurch FC in January this year as a 17-year-old. Cornick has since been involved in match day squads when necessary in the Championship this season. Funding is a huge stumbling block in life, let alone sport. However, we as fans of various games desire to see the best, enjoy the best and recognise the best in a given sport. Gareth Bale’s £86 million sale was cherished for the sheer value received for a youngster once of the prestigious Southampton academy. Either way, funding is paramount and you just have to hope such an important value is available to those when needed.
Jack Cozens
Will Burton
While the stories in this issue highlight the success of young people both locally and on the national stage, they only go so far in revealing the full picture of our sporting world. Although some sports such as cricket are currently enjoying some of their most successful periods in history, the key to continuing such success is investing in people from a young age to ensure that we are consistently able to compete on the sporting world stage.
In this country we are obsessed with finding the ‘next best thing’, whether it’s drooling over Ross Barkley’s potential or obsessing over who will be the next Ian Botham. We tend to focus on elite rather than participation. Physical exercise tackles key issues facing young people such as obesity so perhaps more emphasis should be placed on simply getting young people involved in sport whether they are the next Joe Hart, Joe Root or just another average Joe.
DEPUTY SPORTS EDITOR
21 Champion Biker Thompson
22 Cherries: Ryan Fraser
Doctor has big plans
Dorset-born Olympian Peter Wilson has announced plans to build a centre of excellence to propel shooting to the next level
Ben Fisher
SPORTS EDITOR
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sportseditor @bournemouthrock.co.uk
Olympic shooter Peter Wilson has announced plans to set up a centre of excellence to encourage a new generation of gold-medal talent. Wilson, of Sherborne, Dorset, who shot to fame after securing gold at last year’s Olympic Games in London, is switching his attention to participating in a range of projects, including the establishment of a national centre of excellence. “I’m putting a lot of effort into
developing shooting as a sport. I want to create a centre of excellence and put my name on it,” said Wilson. “There are still some things to finalise but I feel that it is just crucial to get as many people involved as possible, in order to build something that will exist long after I am gone.” Although Wilson recongises the success of the Olympics, he feels no physical legacy has been left behind in shooting, as well as many other sports. “All there is at the moment is my gold medal that I won. It is about building a national centre of excellence able to secure the future of the sport.”
Wilson is not completely sure whether his future even lies within the sport, but for now he is looking forward to being reunited with his gun. “I pick up my gun from Italy in a couple of weeks and once I get that back in my hands, I hope to do some training over the winter,” he added. “At the moment I am still not sure about my shooting but once I have my gun back, I will know what I want to do. I do miss it and really want to get back in the swing of things.” Wilson has been involved in a wealth of projects recently, and at the time of speaking he had visited
WILSON
Yorkshire, London and Bournemouth in his last three days. The double-trap shooter was handed a honorary doctorate by Bournemouth University last week, putting the 27-year old in the hall of fame alongside the star of Doc Martin. “I love being able to call myself a doctor,” he said. “It is a bit weird and I did not realise that Martin Clunes also has a doctorate the University so now I have joined this illustrious club.” Olympian Wilson also confirmed plans are underway to create a gamehunting mobile app in collaboration with non-celebrity chefs.
20 sport Sam Rourke takes a look at this month’s sporting champ and chump Marc Marquez became the youngest rider ever to win the MotoGP World Championship last weekend, after he finished third at the Valencia Grand Prix. Marquez finished just four points ahead of two-time and defending world champion Jorge Lorenzo in the final standings, the smallest points margin since 1992. But what makes Marquez’s achievement even more astounding is the fact that it was the Spaniard’s debut season in Motorcycling’s premier class, and in doing so became the first rookie champion since 1978. Marquez was the subject of much pessimism at the start of the campaign, with many believing the 20-year-old would need a year to find his feet at the highest level. However, the Spaniard rebuffed the negativity surrounding his step up to MotoGP by storming to the Championship in an epic decider in Valencia. Marquez has won more races, amassed more points and clocked more fastest laps than many of the greats who have riden before him, and he doesn’t look like stopping anytime soon.
WINNER
LOSER Chelsea’s Ramires stole a precious three points away from Steve Clarke’s West Bromwich Albion side at Stamford Bridge on Saturday. The visitors lead 2-1 before Ramires broke into the West Brom penalty area with 20 seconds of extra-time left, going shoulder-to-shoulder with West Brom’s Steven Reid. The Brazilian midfielder then went over ‘like a leaf in the breeze’ in the penalty box, with referee Andre Marriner buying the dive and awarding the home side a penalty. Eden Hazard converted. Albion players and staff were left furious with Marriner and Ramires at fulltime, and so they should have been. The pair ought to be especially embarrassed with themselves after marring a resilient, hard fought performance from Clarke’s men. The Brazilian then had the audacity to declare he ‘never dives to try and win fouls’.
Thursday 14 November 2013 | The Rock
A world of sport Peter Rawlins examines what’s happening this month across the globe including the start of the Ashes winter series
Davis Cup final
Rugby League F1 Brazilian Grand Prix (November 24) With Sebastian Vettel and his Red Bull team having already sealed the respective drivers’ and constructors’ championships, São Paulo plays host to the final round of the season, with a number of drivers looking to end the year on a high to secure a seat for 2014.
(November 30) Old Trafford is the host venue for the closing game of the World Cup. With England having safely negotiated their route to the knockout stages after an opening defeat to Australia, the side will be hoping that the home turf can inspire them to their first international crown.
(November 15-17) A showdown in Belgrade between Serbia and Czech Republic will prove which nation wins the most prestigious team event in tennis. All eyes will be on world number two Novak Djokovic and world number six Tomas Berdych, to see if the Czechs can keep hold of the crown they earned last year.
Ashes first test (November 21-25) With England’s triumphant summer display over the Australian’s fresh in the memory, the national side head ‘Down Under’ to defend the urn and win on away ground for a second consecutive time. Michael Clarke’s side look to have improved over the summer, with a fantastic winter series in prospect.
Gillespie blames his boredom for bookies Ben Fisher SPORTS EDITOR
Former Manchester United winger Keith Gillespie says his gambling addiction, that left him bankrupt and £7 million out-of-pocket, stemmed from boredom. Gillespie, 38, was made bankrupt in 2010 and built up spiralling debts during a football career, which took him to clubs such as Newcastle, Sheffield United and Blackburn Rovers. The Northern Irish former midfielder lost £47,000 in just one day, in 1995, three years after he was part of the Manchester United youth team which also included the likes of David Beckham and Paul Scholes. “Once you get involved in gambling, it does get a hold of you,” Gillespie told The Rock. “I would have been at the betting shop every day, most races, nearly every single race. “I had a lot of spare time on my hands and I had a lot of boredom. Especially, when I moved to Newcastle, I had five months in a hotel which was very difficult, having to go back to an empty room, when
the rest of the players are going home to families. “You come home from training and the rest of your day is ahead of you - I chose to spend it in the bookies.” England star Andros Townsend received an £18,000 fine for breaching betting regulations while Stoke City’s Matthew Etherington says he lost £1.5 million through gambling. Like Gillespie, Townsend put his loss down to boredom. “There was a lot of boredom at first and that is something where perhaps maybe I should have taken up golf a lot earlier than I did,” he said. “There was always a little clique in the morning, sitting waiting to go training with a cup of tea talking about gambling. You would look at the paper and chat about what won the day before and what you fancied that day. “That happened at every club I was at, so I do not see any reason why it would not be happening at any other clubs,” said Gillespie. Gillespie now resides back in his native Northern Ireland but spends his time as a coach and pundit. “I played for my country 86 times and worked under some of the best managers in football and represented the club I supported as a kid,” he added. “I am proud I managed to play so many games as professional footballer.”
Gillespie was capped 86 times in his career
PRESS ASSOCIATION
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The Rock | Thursday 14 November 2013
England stars come to town Jack Cozens DEPUTY SPORTS EDITOR
International football came to Bournemouth on Friday evening when Dean Court played host to an Under-16s Victory Shield match between England and Northern Ireland. A wealth of Premier League clubs were represented by academy players in both squads, with future stars as young as fourteen cheered on by nearly 3,000 spectators at the Goldsands Stadium. An entertaining and wellcontested affair was decided when Shea Conaty’s 71st minute header beat England goalkeeper Cameron McCulloch, despite Kenny Swain’s side controlling possession and pressing until the finish.
Star player
The England team’s stars of the future line up before the Victory Shield match in Bournemouth AFCB
England’s captain Darnell Johnson (above) was the stand-out performer on Friday night despite defeat. The Leicester City Academy player looked comfortable throughout the match, commanding play in his half and providing an extra element to the England attack when he surged forward. On the evidence of his display on Friday, Johnson has a big future in English football ahead of him.
Aston Villa, making an appearance in the European Cup final for the latter against Bayern Munich. He says players such as Everton’s latest star Ross Barkley, were a delight to work with. “It is a privilege and a pleasure,” he said. “Nobody expects players at this particular age to be consistent and performances to be as expected. If you are going to be working with young talented players, we have to be prepared to go along with the ride. “It has been a wonderful platform and a start for all the players playing for a lot of the Under-21s and senior level at the moment. This competition will still firmly be in our calendar and we particularly love the event for what it achieves for us.” England suffered a minor blow in their hopes to land the Shield for a twelfth time and will now face Scotland later this month – having already beaten Wales prior to their fixture in Bournemouth – hoping to secure another trophy for the cabinet. Swain reckons now could be the time for their competitors to seize their moment, while they are on the top of their game. He said: “In recent years the Welsh have done very well, Scotland have picked up and maybe this is the start for
Northern Ireland. “We think our pool of talent is growing, but I’m sure ourselves and other countries believe we may be a little bit short. “I think high talent is always in short supply, whether it is in Brazil, or on these shores.” Swain spoke after watching his side lose out to a Shea Conaty goal, a goal that condemned Swain to only his eleventh defeat as manager of the Under-16s in nine years. “We were a little naïve,” he said. “It is a very young side, with some 15-yearold boys in there. Considering we had a couple of young ones, I did not expect it to flow, however there are a lot of lessons to learn. “I thought overall the Irish deserved the victory. But it’s all part of the ride and I’ll be here with the players for the next part of it.” Swain added his delight at bringing his latest generation of star players to the South Coast, where they received fivestar treatment. “It is fantastic,” he added, referencing to the 2,810 healthy crowd that turned out at the Goldsands. “I would love to come back here with any team. It is a fabulous stadium and a great atmosphere. I felt the warmth of the area in particular tonight.”
Ben Fisher SPORTS EDITOR
Kenny Swain speaking to the media before the big game AFCB
Kenny Swain has been in charge of the England Under-16’s since 2004 and has seen some of the best English talents develop first hand. The England boss has watched the likes of Jack Wilshere, Andros Townsend and Ross Barkley flourish as 15-year-old boys. Swain’s youngsters played against Northern Ireland at the Goldsands Stadium, Bournemouth, in the Sky Sports Victory Shield – a competition they have won for the past eleven years. Swain, a former player himself, said that some of this crop of England stars will come through and represent the senior side one day too, emulating the journey made by current international Wayne Rooney. “Without a doubt there will be one or two coming from this group and one or two also coming from the last group,” he said. “I am pretty confident over the way, in the last five years in particular, we have developed and they will be coming through in the not too distant future.” Swain enjoyed a fine playing career, playing for sides such as Chelsea and
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Thursday 14 November 2013| The Rock
Stephenson reflects on first year as ‘elite’ cyclist Michael Seymour DEPUTY EDITOR
Will Stephenson was lounging on Bournemouth beach a week before this year’s Tour of Britain was due to commence when he was given the news that he would be involved in the race itself. The Rapha Condor JLT rider, who trains across Dorset, admitted the whole thing was a bit of a whirlwind. “It was pretty crazy, finding out just a week before,” he said. Stephenson was selected as part of the six-man squad for the tenth edition of the race, which he labelled as the biggest of his career so far. “It was definitely the best way to end the season,” Will said. “I didn’t have much time to mentally prepare for it. “Most of the time you were just there thinking ‘don’t do anything stupid, don’t knock them off. Just ride in a straight line and be
careful’,” he added. Will’s best performance on the Tour came on stage five in Wales – Machynlleth to Caerphilly – finishing 40th. He was placed 45th in the overall standings – fourth in under-23 riders – in 30h 3’ 3’’, while fellow Englishman, Sir Bradley Wiggins, went on to win, nearly 18 minutes ahead. Sport England estimate there are now over 1.9 million regular cyclists and the explosion in the popularity was evident at this year’s Tour of Britain. Crowds were estimated to have reached over a million for the eight-day race, with fans lining the length of the course. “It was unbelievable. The whole time there was just crowds everywhere,” he said. He explained how on stage six – Sidmouth to Haytor – the crowds were three or four deep all the way up. “The last kilometre was absolutely mental.” The Tour kicked off with the first stage north of the border and despite poor weather conditions, fans still turned out in force to watch. “The crowds surprised me the most when
it started it was raining and freezing cold. “There were hundreds of thousands of people standing around in the pouring rain out to watch and you think ‘well, I’m a cyclist and I wouldn’t even watch in this weather’,” Will acknowledged. As an 18-year-old in his first year riding in the elite category, Will grew up under the awe-striking illusion of the Lance Armstrong story. “I’ve read his book. It sort of got me into the world of cycling,” Will said. “I had all his seven Tour de France wins on DVD. Whenever I trained in the garage, I’ve always played them in order,” he added. In January this year, cancer survivor Armstrong admitted to what has been labelled by the United States Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) as the biggest doping conspiracy in sporting history. Armstrong won seven consecutive Tour de France titles between 1999 and 2005, which were all stripped last year because of the scandal and he was handed a lifelong ban from the sport. “I don’t feel sorry for what has happened to him, but I am not
massively against him,” Will said. He also named another local cyclist, Dan Lloyd, as one of his idols. Lloyd, now retired, has trained Will after riding in the past for the likes of world tour team Cervélo. “Just as I was getting into cycling, he
was riding for world tour teams. “It was good to be around him, go on a few rides and chat with him.” Looking to the future, Will said, “You can never predict too much but I would like to do it all again next year.”
Ringwood-born Stephenson during the Tour of Britain STEPHENSON
Teenage sensation on track Ben Fisher SPORTS EDITOR
Sam Thompson first picked up a motorbike just four years ago. Now he is the youngest ever Superstock 600cc champion. The 18-year-old clinched the Superstock crown at the famous Donington Park circuit in Leicestershire at the beginning of this month, taking the championship home with a tally of 389 points, with his nearest challenger Sam Cox 33 points behind. Thompson, of Ensbury Park, says he never took bikes seriously until the age of 14, when he and a friend spotted a Mini Moto for sale while out car washing, just trying to earn some cash to fund their weekends. The £60 investment paid off. Thompson would race around on this bike before gradually moving up onto bigger and better bikes, eventually winning the title at Donington Park this month.
“It has taken me by surprise. Last year we finished eighth from about 45 teams and then this year to get the title has been pretty amazing.
“We really did not expect anything big from this year, I thought it would just be another year of getting on the track and getting used to the bike,” says Thompson whose surprising win at Brands Hatch back in March was the start of his remarkable run. “Since winning the title, I have never had to say thank you so many times in my life. “I have had a lot of support on Twitter and Facebook, with people wishing me luck and just giving me
a morale boost I suppose. I have a lot of people to thank.” The biker says he owes some of his biggest gratitude to his very own family, who have helped him get to where he is today. “I think everybody’s wages in the family have helped go towards my racing. “I am loving it at the moment, racing against people on bigger budgets than ours, ours of which I think is what they call a shoestring.” Friends, says Thompson, are mostly without a job and relaxing, while he works full-time as a bike mechanic in Poole after completing a two-year apprenticeship in order to fund his two-wheel dream. The short-term future hope for Thompson is to compete with the bigger names in the British Superbikes although his long-term career is in doubt with funding a stumbling block for the Dorset youngster. “Without sponsorship or investment down the line, absolutely one hundred per cent I would imagine my career will just come to a halt,” he says. “Next season, I would like to be in
Youngster Thompson at Donington Park on way to title THOMPSON the British Superbikes picture. I think that is more or less going to happen, but it is not definite just yet. There is a huge cost involved; it will be £20,000 for me just to compete next season.” The youngster says he has taken inspiration from familiar names in the sport, two of which have progressed to the big stage MotoGP. “I have taken inspiration from racers such as Bradley Smith and
Scott Reading, perhaps more so from Scott because his riding style is more akin to mine, slightly more aggressive.” Thompson is grounded. He knows his short-term goals are realistic and his long-term future is far from secured. But finances aside, Thompson clearly has natural ability and skill which will flourish given the resource, that is a quality bike.
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The Rock | Thursday 14 November 2013
Flying Scotsman Fraser aims to continue form Tim Taylor Jack Cozens AFC Bournemouth’s Ryan Fraser hopes his side can continue their strong start to the Championship campaign. Fraser signed for the Cherries from his hometown club of Aberdeen, but insisted that despite the change in scenery, he has enjoyed the transition. “It’s different down here, there’s a lot more happening,” he said. “It’s a different lifestyle as well – it’s not just about football. It’s coming down and meeting more people,” he added. “I’m enjoying it down here, it is different but I’m slowly getting used to it.” Having struggled to break into the first team during his three years at Pittodrie, 19-year-old Fraser was pleasantly surprised by the amount of game time he has seen so far this season. “It’s gone better than I thought it would,” said the youngster, who has appeared in all but two of the sides’ league games this season. “I didn’t expect to get a game, so playing makes it worthwhile. “I was disappointed last season about not playing but this season I’ve done much better getting my first goal and then my second goal. I’m enjoying it.” Looking ahead to the remainder of the season, the right-winger
Round-up
Winger Ryan Fraser has quickly established himself as a Cherries regular since his summer move believes the team has exceeded expectations so far this campaign, and is optimistic that the Cherries can continue to surprise in a division that they have been exiled from for more than 20 years.
“You always think it is going to be hard coming into a higher league, so it has gone better than we thought,” added Fraser. “We have played all the big teams and none of them have really hurt
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us apart from Watford, but that was near the start so we are still growing into things. “I think at the end of the season we can be up there – maybe in the playoffs.” he added.
Cherries’ record-signing Tokelo Rantie smashed in his first goal for the club in spectacular style at Burnley. £2.5 million man Rantie, a South African international, struck from outside the box to send his side into the lead in the draw against tabletopping Burnley at Turf Moor last Saturday. The striker joined from Malmo in the summer and had ousted the likes of Wes Thomas and last season’s top scorer Brett Pitman out of the starting eleven despite not having a goal to his name in Cherries colours although that has now changed. Last Saturday also saw goalkeeper Lee Camp make his second appearance for the club since arriving on-loan from Premier League West Bromwich Albion. The ‘keeper made his debut in the 2-0 home defeat against Bolton Wanderers. The club will return to Championship football in ten days time against Derby County at the Goldsands Stadium, before facing another South Coast side, Brighton and Hove Albion, a week later. The Cherries head into the international break mid-table but remain just six points off of the play-off places. England’s latest star, Adam Lallana, started his career with the Cherries youth team, too, before being snapped up by Southampton at the age of 12.
Poole Town defender set for Football League Ben Fisher SPORTS EDITOR
Poole Town boss Tom Killick says defender Will Spetch has to stay grounded, despite interest from the Football League. Left-back Spetch has been linked with Portsmouth as well as Exeter, and at the time of printing, was due to play in a exhibition match against a Brentford XI on Tuesday. Killick confirmed to The Rock on Monday that Spetch was offered the chance to play for Exeter, equally on Tuesday, but obviously could not please both suitors. The Sun reported that the full-back was interesting Championship neighbours AFC Bournemouth as well as although
Killick acknowledges a step up to such a level, would be a rarity. “Will is hoping to make the step up but he knows, and I have said to him, that it is a big jump and it may not happen. It does not happen at this level very often,” said Killick. Spetch is a regular at Tatnam where Poole play in the Southern League, three divisions below League Two. The defender previously had a trial at Dean Court but it did not come to fruition, and now Killick says that a move to the Football League would be far from easy. “To go from this level to the professional game is a big jump,” he said. “We do realise that it is not by any means a certainty. “There are clubs looking at him, there was a prospect of a trial at Exeter next week but we’re not too sure yet.
“I think we have to be careful about it. Will is attracting a lot of interest and there’s a lot of publicity but at the moment it’s still just a hope. “We are just hoping that it does not end up in disappointment or affect him too much.” The Tatnam side have had an indifferent start to the season, and exited two cups in quick succession last month after defeats against Staines Town and Arsley Town. The defeat to Staines came as a major blow, with victory setting them up with a glory tie with a League side. Staines were defeated in the glamour tie 5-0 by League One promotion favourites Brentford. On the season as a whole, Poole boss Killick, said: “Overall, it has been a fairly average start for us. We have done reasonably well but the two Cup exits dampen it a bit.”
Will Spetch (right) has attracted interest from professional clubs PTFC
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Thursday 14 November 2013 | The Rock
Cherries winger Pugh eyeing top-half finish
I don’t believe it! Boars wreak havoc on football pitches Playing surfaces are all too often blamed by managers explaining their players’ poor performances in football today. But the manager of Gloucester Northern Senior League side Soudley AFC could be forgiven for using such an excuse, after wild boars tore up the side’s pitch. Soudley Recreation Ground, which backs onto the Forest of Dean, has now been ravaged three times by the boars, causing an estimated £1000-worth of damage. The pitch could be out of action until December, but players and rival teams have offered their services to the club to try and fix the surface. Now there’s something you don’t see in the Premier League.
tweet -twoo Marc Pugh shields the ball away from Bolton’s defender Kevin McNaughton in their recent 2-0 defeat at the Goldsands Stadium AFCB
Ben Fisher SPORTS EDITOR Marc Pugh knows that safety in the Championship is paramount this season, but reckons the Cherries can claim a top-half finish. Pugh has been heavily involved this season, despite manager Eddie Howe’s options on the wing, and scored a crucial late equaliser in his side’s 1-1 draw at Nottingham Forest. “It has been a really great start to the season, four goals is a good return and I am delighted with my own personal form but I would like to have more goals and assists in games,” said Pugh. “From a team perspective we have had a decent start. We are six points from the play-offs and we have got to try and aim as high as we can, and look up the league table to try catch the people in front of us. “It is looking promising but there are lots of tough games, like the one against Burnley and we are looking forward to them all.”
The Cherries faced Eddie Howe’s old club on Saturday where they surrendered their goal lead to a late Danny Ings equaliser. Ings is a former Bournemouth hero who left the club in the summer of 2011, after a purple patch in April of that year, when he netted four goals in three games. The 21-year-old also forced his way into the reckoning of Gareth Southgate’s England-U21 squad last month, and has made a blistering start to the season, scoring 14 goals for leaders Burnley. The Clarets hitman notched seven goals for the Cherries before linking up with manager Eddie Howe, who took him north for a reported £1 million, before switching back to the South Coast last October. Pugh, a former teammate of Ings’, played the lion’s share of the game at Turf Moor before being substituted by Richard Hughes. The winger is enjoying playing football at the highest level he ever has. The former Hereford man has set a personal goal for the campaign as well. “As an attacking player I always aim for double figures every season, and I have been there or thereabouts for the last four seasons now.
For Remembrance Sunday I will donate 11p for every retweet of this until 11am when we remember our heroes @Ebenno88
“It has been a really productive season for me but I always want to work on my game. Scoring and creating goals is a big part of that and I’ve got to try and get better.”
Turn to page 23 for Ryan Fraser’s thoughts on his new club
As a team, the Cherries have struggled to find consistency and suffered heavy defeats away at Watford and Huddersfield before beating Millwall 5-2 at home a month later. But Pugh remains confident in the ability of the squad. “I always believe we could finish in the top half,” he said. “It would be a great achievement for the club to stay in the league but I believe we can finish in the top half we just need a decent run of results. “It is all right saying it but we have got to go out on the pitch and prove it.” he added.
Was a special little bloke when I met him the 1st time. Congrats on the world title @MarcMarquez @AussieGrit
Big win for Manchester United, huge goal for RVP and a gigantic result for David Moyes @GaryLineker