Issue 1466

The decline of drinking culture within Gen Z

The rise of student activism

Current Affairs | Page 6

Culture | Page 31

Students share their experience with UCU strikes

After three weeks of UCU strike action at Newcastle University, The Courier continues to investigate the ongoing industrial action at Newcastle University, pinpointing the next steps the UCU has laid out, and the developing worry of the students.

After their press release on February 11, the UCU has begun their planned industrial action across the University’s campus in response to the University’s declaration of voluntary severance. As voluntary severance has come to an end on March 21, the University will now consider moving into a phase of redundancy. The UCU suggested that Newcastle University says “6000 people are at risk of redundancy”.

Future and current jobs remain on the line, both for current staff and current students who have been working towards careers in this field; undergraduate, masters, and PHD alike.

What both UCU branch chair, Matt Perry, and secretary, David Bates, say to remember is that “all this pain” is shared between both staff and students.

The Courier spoke to students from various schools about how they feel

the strikes have impacted them. A second year Biology student talked about their thoughts on the growing absences in their timetable saying “it’s hard to pick apart a PowerPoint”. They said that while they “wholeheartedly” support the industrial action they are having to “backtrack” on their learning. An international student shared their perspective with us: “I obviously support the staff [members] that are striking, however the situation is very frustrating because I am losing valuable teaching time in my final year. As an international student it feels like I’m putting my 100% in but I’m not getting the same back from the University. It feels like they aren’t trying enough”.

For students who are working on their final dissertation, the emotional impact of the industrial action has never been more prominent.

One third year Journalism student commented “I feel very abandoned” after explaining their minimal

supervision for their project. A similar message was reflected amongst other students; expressing how unfair it feels to know some students receive full supervision, while others are left to navigate unguided. A third year Media student expressed a similar sense of dread, saying “it’s frustrating for students who need more support”.

A fourth year Modern Languages student described being witness to the experience as “eye-opening”. It’s become clear when speaking to students at the University, the consensus is that industrial action is necessary.

Some lecturers across the University have opted to send out an informative email while they strike, giving students some more information on the University’s financial situation from their perspective. “Their capital investment budget [is] higher than since the pandemic” stated one email, finishing with “Choosing to cut jobs is a choice.”

Matt Perry said ultimately it comes down to this, “higher education needs reform”. The UCU have since launched a vote of no confidence against ViceChancellor Chris Day which is now open for everyone. If you want more information you can go to the Newcastle University website, nusu.co.uk, or the Newcastle University section of the UCU website, or, past articles from The Courier Online.

A spokesperson from Newcastle University said: “We respect the right to take part in industrial action and we understand it is not a decision that is taken lightly. However, we are disappointed that UCU has

called for this action while we are still in a period of consultation.

“Our goal during strike action is to minimise the impact on students’ educational experience, focusing on fair treatment for all and maintaining academic standards while enabling students to progress or achieve their awards. We are also reimbursing travel and other expenses, such as childcare, for any students who arrive on campus to find that all of the scheduled teaching events have been cancelled as a result of the strikes. More information about this and the other support we have in place is available on our website: https://enquire.ncl.ac.uk/en/can-i-get-arefund-of-my-travel-costs-if-i-arrive-atuniversity-to-find-my-lectures/seminarsare-cancelled-due-to-strike-action.

“The financial challenges we are facing are being felt by universities across the UK and are based on a combination of structural underfunding, rising costs, and shifts in international student markets. Decisions on how we respond to these pressures are always taken with the long-term interests of our University in mind, including input from staff and student representatives on our governing bodies. We want to work constructively with our unions to build a more sustainable future while supporting our community throughout this challenging time.”

The Courier and Newcastle Student Radio shortlisted for nine national awards!

Trinity Eadie

- Fashion & Beauty Sub-Editor

The Courier and Newcastle Student Radio have been nominated for national awards!

The Courier and Newcastle Student Radio (NSR) are in the running for nine national awards at this year’s Student Publication Association National Conference (SPANC) and Student Radio Association (SRA) Conference.

NSR has been shortlisted for five Amplify Awards and will be attending the SRA Conference in Salford from March 31 to April 2. Meanwhile, The Courier will head to Exeter for SPANC from April 4 to 6, where they are nominated for four SPA National Awards. NSR has been shortlisted across several categories, including the ‘Student Radio Resilience Award’, which recognises a station for overcoming challenges beyond their control, and the ‘Best Station Culture’

award. Moreover, they have also been shortlisted in the ‘Most Supportive University or Student’s Union’ category.

The Amplify Awards shortlist has also reflected the dedication of individual members of NSR. George Brownless, the former Head of Technology, has been shortlisted for the ‘Outstanding Contribution’ category, whilst for the ‘Most Committed Committee Member’ category, Erin Reid, the Station Manager, has received recognition.

Reflecting on her experience being shortlisted, Erin said that she felt: ““so proud of NSR, it’s not always been easy with different tech failures and issues - I think it just goes to show that you don’t need the fanciest tech, it’s really about the people and the ideas and working hard when it comes to student radio.

“I am also amazed that I was shortlisted, I really didn’t think I’d make it but I’m so pleased. I can’t wait to go to SRAcon next week, where the awards will take place!”

These nominations will only add to NSR’s growing collection of accreditations after they took home their first gold Amplify award for the ‘Best Student Media Collaboration’ in 2024.

This year, there have been a record number of entries for the SPA National Awards, which will bring together

student journalists across the UK and Ireland to celebrate the work done across student publications.

After being awarded for having the ‘Best Science Section’ nationally in 2024, The Courier has now been shortlisted for both the ‘Best Sports Section’ and ‘Best Culture Section’ awards. Alongside this, the publication has also received recognition in the ‘Best Design (Newspaper)’ category.

Sarah Tunstall, one of the Heads of Culture at the Courier, recalled the moment they learned about the nomination: “My phone died as we were shortlisted, and as I charged it, I saw all the texts from Adam, the other Head of Culture, asking me to call him. I called him, confused, and he screamed, ‘We’ve been shortlisted!’ – I was over the moon.”

“I find that culture sometimes goes unnoticed, and to see our paper there on the list made me feel so proud and happy to put ourselves out there. The work and dedication the team puts in is invaluable. I was lost for words but feeling so much at the same time.”

One of The Courier’s Heads of Life and Style, Marina Snyder, has also earned an individual nomination for the prestigious ‘Best Reporter’ award. Marina, who has been part of The

Courier since 2022, said: “I think I’m still in a bit of shock having being shortlisted but also so overjoyed. I started out as a timid volunteer writer for The Courier almost three years ago and I feel like I’ve come so far since then.

“To have my work recognized is an incredible privilege, especially with there being so much talent in this industry. Being given a platform to write and share my stories every week is something so special to me - and it makes me very grateful to be part of an amazing team. I can’t wait for Exeter in April!” The winners of the Amplify Awards will be announced on April 1 at the SRA Conference, whilst the SPA National Awards winners will be revealed at SPANC on April 5.

Megan Grimston - Sport Sub-Editor

Image Credit: Ian McDonald (Newcastle UCU)

Want to get involved?

If you're interested in getting involved in student media, come along to our weekly Student Media Afternoons (SMAs)!

Our Next SMA: 30th April

1.30pm Bamburgh Room, NUSU

You'll be able to meet the team, hear from our SMO, attend workshops and pick up as many articles as you'd like! We alternate between article SMAs, and Workshops, where you'll have the chance to learn new skills and become an even better writer.

Our SMAs are open to all, regardless of previous experience, and we would love to have you.

If you can't make the SMAs, left over articles will be posted to the sections' facebook groups, so keep an eye out!

Article Highlights: 24th March

Current Affairs | Science

Falling out of love with science

Our Film Sub-Editor discusses the problems with secondary school science | Page 11

Life & Style | Fashion & Beauty

Mums do it best!

A love letter to our own Mother's fashion | Page 18

Life & Style | Travel

Last minute home getaways this Easter

Fancy getting-howay this Spring break? Look no further | Page 23

Culture | Gaming

Newcastle gaming market

A rundown of our experience and what we bought | Page 34

NSR & NUTV

Updates from your Station Managers

Check out what is happening in Radio and TV | Page 33

Puzzles | Challenge your brain! | Page 36

Sports |

Newcastle Pies make historic qualification

Ultimate Frisbee at Newcastle make history! | Page 39

NOTE FROM THE EDITOR

Hello! Good morning! Good evening! You may be thinking - it has only been one week since the last paper, why is there already another one? Well, we just really wanted to get another issue out before Spring Break began. Our team decided to put in the extra work to deliver another paper because it is just THAT much fun... And here is it, Issue 1466 in all of its glory. This issue wasn't as much of a scramble as we thought it was gong to be and I have made sure to enjoy editing itespecially with the stomach turning knowledge that I only have ONE newspaper left as Editor-in-Chief. But, I know The Courier is in safe hands and there is plenty of work to do before the end of the year. Spring Break has well and truly crept up on

Hi everyone! My name is Gabbi, and I have the absolute pleasure of being your Student media Officer and Editor-In-Chief this year. Over the summer, I’ve been working hard behind the scenes alongside the Editorial team and NUSU to bring you this Freshers’ issue. Not only will you find loads of incredible articles written by our fantastic sub-editors, you’ll also find a one-stop guide to Freshers’ week, including an introduction to the Freshers’ week assistants who have put together an amazing programme of daytime activities for you all.

Freshers’ week is a time to get to know more about Newcastle University, but also the city as your new home. After calling Newcastle

us, and the sun is now making much more frequent appearances which we cannot complain about. I have even started having lunch outside! Now let's hope that the weather lasts (I apologise prefusely if I have jinxed this).

The last week of term looks to be a busy one - with Varsity THIS Wednesday 26th March, and a whole week of strikes. We wanted to make sure that we covered the strikes from a student angle this time around, particularly because it affects you so much.

When we come back from Spring Break both The Courier and Newcastle Student Radio will have gone to their respective award nights, and we are hoping there will be a bit of good news in the mix of these ever-changing, confusing times both to study and just to live.

NSR is back on air 24/7 and it has

been lovely to see people back presenting their quirky shows. NUTV have been streaming the ever exciting student councils, so if you want to keep up to date with the politics of the SU, head over to their YouTube to watch them!

In the new term, we will also have the media awards to look forward to - if you're interested, it will be on 2nd May so save the date! It is looking to be an exciting night whilst recognising everyone's achievements this year.

Have a lovely break and don't work too hard ;)

THE COURIER SECTIONS

Editor

Lucy Bower

MediaOfficer.Union@newcastle.ac.uk

Social Media

Poppy Bedford

Current Affairs

Senior editors: Grace Boyle

G.Boyle3@newcastle.ac.uk

Anna Nix

A.Nix2@newcastle.ac.uk

News

Ebony Maude

Marcus Williamson

Oscar Jenkins

Safia Adia

Tom Wood

Campus Comment

Amala Parry

Jess Mooney

Scarlet Davies

Opinion

Addie Dodson

Amelie Baker

Margaux Martinez

Science

Charlotte Atkinson

Matthew Barratt

Sport

Senior editor: Adam Tibke

A.S.Tibke2@newcastle.ac.uk

Adam Symes

Dylan Seymour

Megan Grimston

Noelia Fernandez Perez

Deputy Editor

Libby Griffiths

L.Griffiths9@newcastle.ac.uk

P.Bedford2@newcastle.ac.uk

Life & Style

Senior editors: Marina Snyder

M.Snyder2@newcastle.ac.uk

Charlotte Burley-Hnat

C.Burley-Hnat2@newcastle.ac.uk

Relationships

Emma Stephenson

Jess Hughes

Rosie McKenna

Blind date and Agony Aunt: Abi Ogden

Lifestyle

Ruby Tiplady

Emma Hunter

Fashion &

Beauty

Agnes Kargbo

Mia Wijayatilleke

Trinity Eadie

Travel

Ellen Pinch

Sophie Jarvis

Food & Drink

Barbora Pacherova

Erin Matthews

Esther Arnold

Culture

Senior editors: Sarah Tunstall

S.Tunstall2@newcastle.ac.uk

Adam Lovegrove

A.Lovegrove2@newcastle.ac.uk

Music

Bertie Kirkwood

Oli Free

TV

Cory Gourley

Kirsty Dow

Film

Alex Paine

Charlotte Thompson

Ciara Rivers

Gaming

Amy Mescus

Milly Thompson

Arts

Keira Gratton

Phoebe Clark

Puzzles

Poppy Bedford

Family homes 'lost' to Jesmond students

Noelia Fernández Pérez - Sports Sub-Editor

More family houses in Jesmond are being 'lost' to growing student house market

Owners of one of the last remaining family homes on Sunbury Avenue, in West Jesmond, have received approval to convert their property into a house of multiple occupation (HMO) after struggling to sell it.

Of the 51 homes on the street, 48 are now rented out to students, mainly from Newcastle University, and the increasing concentration of student HMOs has led to complaints from some residents.

Planning documents revealed that potential buyers had expressed negative feedback about the number of student properties in the area, making it difficult to sell the house as a family home.

As a result, the owners sought permission to change the property’s use to a five-bedroom HMO. Despite concerns raised by some residents, including the Jesmond Residents Association, the Newcastle City Council planning

committee approved the application by a narrow vote of four to three.

There were 17 objections to the proposal, with many citing the overconcentration of student HMOs and concerns about anti-social behaviour (ASB).

One objection highlighted the loss of a spacious family home close to a good school. However, the application did have support, including from one of the two non-student residents remaining on the street.

Christopher Wanche, who has lived in the area for 39 years, commented that the streets are peaceful during the summer months when students are away. He described students as friendly and helpful, suggesting that their presence has not been disruptive.

The owners had previously attempted to sell the property, but with little success due to the dominance of student accommodation in the area.

One supportive comment stated that the area had already "lost to students"

and that without permission for the HMO, the couple would be unable to move.

This approval reflects a broader trend in Jesmond, where increasing numbers 'The area had already "lost to students”'

of student HMOs are replacing family homes, prompting both support and concern from residents.

The decision to allow the conversion of 32 Sunbury Avenue marks a significant shift in the neighbourhood, with the city council’s approval signalling the growing influence of student accommodation in residential areas.

Miners mark 40 years since year-long strike

Ex-miners retraced their steps on the 40th anniversary of the year-long strike

On Sunday 2 March, around 100 exminers retraced their steps to Westoe Colliery, South Shields, marking 40 years since they marched back to work after a bitter year-long strike.

A group of more than 150, including around 100 ex-miners and Westoe Miners Women's Support Group, took a commemorative walk from Mowbray Park in South Shields to the old gates of Westoe Colliery Site.

These were the same steps taken 40 years ago to the day as they returned to work after a year-long strike. The day's poignance was reflected in the miners’ banners held aloft, now synonymous to many with the industry’s legacy, and a symbol of solidarity through hardship.

More than 140,000 workers had

walked out across the country in March 1984 to protest Margaret Thatcher's planned closure of 20 pits. The strike came to an end 12 months later when the National Union of Mineworkers narrowly voted to stop the dispute without settlement.

“With communities divided and families on the breadline, miners went back to the pits two days later.”

With communities divided and families on the breadline, miners went back to the pits two days later.

Walking down Milner Street towards Westoe Colliery’s old entrance to the sound of Harton and Westoe brass band, those present on the commemorative walk cast their memory back to the day they came off the picket line.

Speaking to ITV Tyne Tees, Alan Mardghun, secretary of Durham Miners’ Association, said: “When we went back to work, I wasn’t happy. I was aware we were leaving lads behind, still outside the gates, sacked and victimised miners. We hadn’t achieved what we set out to [..]”

He added: “We fought valiantly, and I’m proud of the lads and lasses that I stood with. [I] also reflect on people who stood shoulder to shoulder with us and are no longer with us.”

“We fought valiantly, and I’m proud of the lads and lasses that I stood with”

Former miner, John McCabe said: “The bond that miners have is immense. It’s like no other bond in the world. We’ve got the word ‘Marra’ - [...] your bond and your brother for life.”

The chairman of the Harton and Westoe Miners Heritage Group, Ronnie Peterson, also spoke to the Sunderland Echo, saying: “We had a brilliant day with a fantastic turnout,”.

“Local people turned up as well as some who came from further afield. I met lads who I had not seen for 40 years.”

Westoe Colliery operated from 1909 to 1993, before it was redeveloped into Westoe Crown Village.

Phillipp Andreewitch

A new study reveals that 92% of students use AI while at university

Since AI became accessible to the public, adoption in academia has been swift and transformational with a recent Higher Education Policy Institute (HEPI) study showing that 92% of British students now use AI, up from 53% in 2024.

Tools like ChatGPT have been attributed for their ability to explain concepts, write code, summarise information and save time in various ways.

Whilst academic institutions in the UK have largely acknowledged the new presence AI has in the student workflow, the HEPI study shows that 18% of students admitted to using AI to directly produce their assessed work.

Most higher education institutions in the UK have implemented academic rules to ban AI in assessed work. In order to enforce this, software designed to detect AI text has become widely used by universities, especially in the humanities. Despite this, some academics have

expressed concerns that AI could threaten academic rigour and quality in the long run. Some of these concerns are based on the reliability of AI detection tools in assessed work being challenged by ever more sophisticated large language models able to fool these tools and remain undetected.

Some students are also developing strategies in a bid to thwart the detection tools; interleaving human written sentences within AI paragraphs as well as adding uncommon and unusual words into AI generated text.

“the HEPI study shows that 18% of students admitted to using AI to directly produce their assessed work”

The HEPI study also shows that students from higher socio-economic groups are more likely to use AI whilst at university than students from lower socio-economic groups.

Currently, only 36% of students say they have received support from their institutions to develop AI skills. This raises questions about if academic institutions could do more to ensure all students are able to benefit from AI equally.

Tom Wood - News Sub-Editor

Image Source: Robert Graham, Geograph

Only 5% of UK medical school entrants are working class

Aarya Shenoy

Sutton Trust says underrepresentation of poorer students is 'outrageous'.

The Sutton Trust and University College London conducted research into 94,000 applicants for the 2021/2022 years of entry.

Of this figure, which makes up half of the medical school applicants, only 5% were working class.

“The profession urgently needs a shot of equality”

In a model comprised by sociologists, around 30-35% of the British population identifies as working class. Nick Harrison, chief executive of the Sutton Trust says, “If you have the ability, where you grow up or your parents income shouldn’t be a barrier to becoming a doctor. Working-class entry into medicine is in a critical condition. The profession urgently needs a

shot of equality.”

Although only five percent of applicants came from the lowest socioeconomic background, this is a figure that has doubled in the past decade. In comparison, 75% of medical school entrants were from higher socioeconomic backgrounds.

“Urgent action is needed to widen access and create a more diverse pipeline of talent”

Applicants from independent schools across the UK were 1.5 times more likely to receive an offer from a medical school in comparison to non-selective

Harrison adds, “The medical profession is stretched to a breaking point, and urgent action is needed to widen access and create a more diverse pipeline of talent from all parts of society. Patients benefit from doctors who reflect the diversity of the communities they

serve, but it’s clear that we’re a long way from that today.”

A government spokesperson stated: "We will work with partners including NHS England and the university sector to ensure that everyone has an opportunity to study medicine –regardless of their background".

Sunderland Tyre-To-Jet fuel factory to create 100 jobs

A new £100 million factory in Sunderland will transform old tyres into sustainable aviation fuel.

Anew £100 million factory in Sunderland will transform old tyres into sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), creating over 100 jobs. The facility, operated by the Norwegian Firm Wastefront, will be located at the Port of Sunderland and process approximately 10 million tyres annually. Construction has now begun, with the first phase set to open by the end of 2026 and full operations expected by 2027. The plant will be the UK’s first fully circular tyre-to-fuel facility, refining used tyres into oil and converting it into SAF.

The project is supported by the International Airlines Group (IAG), which owns British Airways, Aer Lingus, and Iberia. IAG announced its investment in January and stated that the Wearside plant would play a key role in meeting growing SAF demands. The UK government recently introduced a mandate requiring at least 2% of the fuel used on departing flights to be SAF, increasing to 10% by 2030 and 22% by 2034.

Wastefront’s CEO, Vianny Vales,

highlighted the plant’s environmental and economic benefits, stating that it would prevent millions of tyres from going to landfills while providing a cost-effective solution for sustainable aviation. Sunderland City Council leader, Micheal Mordey, welcomed the investment, saying it reinforces the city’s reputation as a hub for innovation.

The Sunderland site marks the beginning of Wastefront’s expansion. The company aims to scale up to meet the rising demand for green aviation fuels. The initiative aligns with the aviation industry’s efforts to reduce carbon emissions and transition towards more sustainable fuel sources, setting a precedent for similar projects in the UK.

Universities Challenged Edinburgh warns of staff cuts

Tom Wood - News Sub-Editor

The University of Edinburgh’s vicechancellor has warned radical actions including job cuts must be considered as the Russell group institution looks to address a £140M black hole, echoing the financial tribulations experienced across the higher education sector.

Edinburgh University’s leader, professor Peter Mathieson, has revealed to staff that job cuts are among the measures being considered to address “the financial gap that we need to close”, which amounts to 10% of its annual turnover.

“Savings of such magnitude cannot be achieved by recruitment restraint or other small-scale measures,”

Mathieson's email warned, as he stressed that rising workforce expenditure was “no longer sustainable and we must reduce it”.

The £140M deficit would be the largest forecasted by a British university during the ongoing funding crisis that has seen members of the University and College Union (UCU) go on strike.

Mathieson said: “There are several coinciding factors that have brought about the circumstances our sector is now reckoning with, many of which I have warned of publicly and privately for a number of years in a bid to abate this situation.

“These factors include years of income for teaching not rising in line with costs, steeply rising utilities prices, inflation, recent unexpected announcements on national insurance contributions, and rise in employment costs: these have all contributed to the fragility of the sector’s finances.

Bolton uni face racism allegations

Grace Boyle - Head of Current Affairs

Police investigating the University of Greater Manchester following a whistleblower claiming 'systematic misuse of public funds', racism and bullying.

The House of Commons confirmed the police have joined the Office for Students (OfS)- the higher education regulatory body in England- in investigating the university formerly known as the University of Bolton.

Bolton West MP, Phil Bricknell said 'An independent news site named Manchester Mill, recently reported accusations of 'racism, financial misconduct and bullying [which] have significantly damaged the reputation of that institution over the last few weeks'.

The published report has led to a significant number of whistleblowers reaching out to the Labour MP. 'with further allegations highlighting concerning practices at the university that are receiving significant public funding. It must be transparent and accountable, as must the Office for Students.'

A spokesperson from Greater Manchester University shared they 'have commissioned an external company to conduct an independent investigation into the allegations against senior personnel working for or on behalf of the university'. They highlighted 'the investigation will be overseen by the university’s audit committee. Until we have the outcome of that investigation, it would be inappropriate to comment any further'.

Bricknell said 'the university’s importance to Bolton 'cannot be overstated', and that the allegations needed to be addressed'.

“Moreover, across the UK, we are facing a reduction in the attractiveness of the UK as a destination for international students.”

Image Source: Tyne & Wear Archives & Museums, Wikimedia Commons

Jo Grady, general secretary of UCU, argued the cuts being suggested are “off the scale”, suggesting a better alternative may be found in the university’s estimated £3B worth of assets:

“The University of Edinburgh is one of the oldest and richest institutions in Scotland with endowments stretching back through the centuries, so management’s threat to make cuts of this size is shocking.

“Prof Mathieson needs to use the billions of pounds the university boasts in wealth to protect jobs, protect provision and protect the university’s global reputation. Scotland cannot afford to allow one of its great public institutions to engage in academic vandalism of this scale.”

The announcement comes out of Edinburgh as a bailout fund worth £15M was unveiled by the Scottish government for institutions hardest hit by the funding crisis.

The University of Greater Manchester was known as Bolton University until the office of Students approved the name change in December last year.

UK uni's in favour of strike

It is expected there will be around 10,000 job cuts in the high education sector. The UCU has estimated that 5,000 jobs have already been lost in the UK sector this academic year alone.

-Newcastle University:300 jobs

-University of Edinburgh: 200 jobs

-University of Bradford: 200 jobs

-Univeristy of Strathclyde:350 jobs

-University of Dundee: 632 jobs

-UEA (East Anglia): 170 jobs

-Brunel University: 432 jobs

All figures were correct at time of print

Payal Rathore

Image Source: Printerval

Image Sources : Wikimedia Commons

Campus Comment

The rise of student activism

Scarlet Davies - Campus Comment Sub-Editor

Is

it up to the new generation to save the world?

The media is crazed over the new ‘woke’ generation of young people, who are set on ‘changing the world’. It’s true: social media has allowed for a new influx of online activism, where young people worldwide can connect and share common beliefs. But how true really is the stereotype of the conscientious new generation? Are we simply more attuned to it because of its online presence, and are we ignoring previous generations’ attempts at protesting the same beliefs? Has Generation Z been shaping social change, or simply media change?

Gen Z are certainly more social-media focused than other generations. Having been born in the era of technology, it goes without saying that they use media platforms to connect and educate themselves with different beliefs and areas of the world. With information and events so easily spread online, activism has gone from local rallies to worldwide protests. For example, the death of George Floyd in America sparked a series of protests all over the

world, and spread the Black Lives Matter movement further than it could have ever been shared before the internet. While Gen Z are accused of being ‘woke’, could it be argued that they're really just more informed? Statistics and current events are more accessible than ever, and the new generation knows that their influence online can often take them further than in-person complaints. It’s no wonder that Gen Z is so present in social

change

when they’re being handed information with a click of a button. Current political news is making social change even more critically important for the new generation. With abortion bans and genocidal wars, it’s no wonder that Gen Z are wanting to make their voices heard. Recent news

has informed us that the climate change clock is nearing midnight; an issue that previous generations were generally oblivious to because of a lack of modern research. In recent years, climate change has been getting steadily worse without a solution. Laws that were previously passed are being revoked in many parts of the world- and with such widespread media access, the younger generation are understandably worried about their futures. Greta Thunberg is a prime example of this: whilst she was belittled and mocked for voicing her concerns about climate change, she remained a voice for all of the younger generation anxious about the environment. Whilst they are still at an age where they have little influence financially or societally, Gen Z are making sure their voices are heard. The realisation that their futures are at stake is painfully obvious to any young person watching the news. So is the new generation really our only chance at change? Gen Z have certainly been more exposed to world news due to social media; with recent political and social events, it feels more imperative than ever that people take action. Although recognition must be given to previous generations who helped to begin the protest, it is now up to the newer generations to carry the torch and continue spreading awareness about current issues that will affect their futures. Hopefully this time, world leaders will start to listen.

The years at University from worst to best

Uni is one of the most formative experiences any of us will be fortunate enough to go through. For many, it brings a first taste of independence, freedom, and even reinvention. But it is also a whirlwind of change. Nobody leaves as the same brighteyed fresher who walked through the door on day one. Everyone will have their highlights and low points, epic tales and battle scars, but what is certain is that no two years are the same. Whether you’re a first-year keen for a glimpse into what awaits, or a wise and longtoothed third-year avoiding that dissertation, read on to see how a Masters student who’s been there, done that, and got the mortar board, ranks the years of the higher education rollercoaster

4) Final Year of Uni:

Two-plus years of freedom and socialising give way to burning the midnight oil in the library, and a sense of dread as we are confronted with ‘what comes next?’. Our social circle shrinks down to the local Tesco staff and the Lofi girl in what is objectively the most stressful year. Mental health and wellbeing need to be prioritised, lest the pressure ruin what could be the most rewarding of the years. Because although third year

certainly takes its toll, the pride when you see your name on that scroll makes it so worth it. For me, my final year (my fourth, having studied my undergrad in Scotland), was heavily disrupted by COVID-19. Like many students during the pandemic, wrestling with solitude and remote learning nearly brought me to my knees. But as I stood side-by-side with my robe-clad peers on the grounds of Edinburgh Castle, those hardships made the sense of achievement all the sweeter. If you’re in your final year, keep going. It’s worth it.

3) First Year of Uni:

Ah, first year. A fever dream, you were the best of times, you were the worst of times. With newfound freedom, we explore a new city that we will come to call home, consuming unholy quantities of booze along the way. Ultimately, the First year is about the people you meet; some will become friends for life, others we can’t believe we ever associated with. Most will simply be forgotten. With grades yet to matter, we can let loose before the stakes are raised. But it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. Going out excessively comes at the expense of our physical health and the health of our bank accounts as we flirt with the inevitable overdraft. Moreover, moving away from home - in some cases hundreds of miles away - can bring homesickness and a sense of isolation.

2) Second Year of Uni:

The highest among the undergraduate programmes is the middle child.

You’ve found your feet in your new surroundings, and know where to get your three trebs for a tenner. And the academic trials of the third year are still beyond the horizon. But most importantly, your closest friends have become your housemates - possibly even like family. As with most families, tempers might flare (invariably about the bins or the dishes), but if you’re lucky, your dysfunctional little family will be the source of so much love and laughter.

1) Masters or Post-grad:

A hot take perhaps, but for those who get the chance, a Masters degree can be the pick of the bunch. If you can get by without the once-essential maintenance loan (the biggest difference), there is so much to be enjoyed. You’ve matured, you’re more self-aware, and you’re studying a subject that genuinely interests you. The hangovers last a bit longer, but enough youth remains that you don’t feel out of place in Luther’s, while you’re equally content with the early night your liver has been begging for. I loved my time as an undergrad but definitely took it for granted. This year, I have squeezed every minute for all its worth, making the most of our amazing selection of clubs and socs where I didn’t favourite you think the fun stops after the third year, think again!

To pub or to club?

Aarya Shenoy

Ahh the good old Friday night dilemma – the pub or the club?

I will say that a night out at the club used to be more appealing to me when I spent every day with my friends. A night out at college was fun because you could let loose with people you knew inside out. As I’ve gotten older, a night at the pub seems more appealing. There’s less effort in going to the pub, and it can be a nice way to unwind after work and classes.

Clubbing may seem like a good way to get to know people but in reality, it’s only a surface-level way to bond.

Dancing with a group of people is fun, but there’s no way to get to know people properly. A night out at the pub allows you to relax and speak to friends, and update them on the various and busy lives we live. The atmosphere is intimate but social.

for entertainment. Attending pub quizzes or sports nights with friends and family could potentially be more fun than spending the night at a club. It can also be a more inclusive way to spend time with friends who don’t drink, who are able to get themselves non-alcoholic beverages and still be

You’re able to get both food and drinks for a more affordable price and have a good natter.

The British pub culture runs deep, having had Public Houses be a place of political and community discussion since the 1700’s but their roots run back to the Middle Ages, with some pubs having been established in 1086.

Pubs also afford more scope

Clubbing is also fun, but everyone has different tastes in music and it can be difficult to find a place where all your friends can have a good time. It’s also difficult to find the right balance between a ‘dead’ club and one that’s too packed, as one or the other can change your entire experience. There’s a certain clubbing culture at university, and if you want to take part in can be a great time and a good way to spend a couple nights a week. Some people come away with great stories – such as finding friends in cow fields at 3 am (and never letting them forget it).

Hot take; the best part of a night out to the club is the pres. The club itself doesn’t hold any appeal to me, as you’re unable to talk to people or enjoy yourself sober and drinks can wear off pretty fast.

Personally, I think the student population is currently leaning more toward a night at the pub, as it is much less effort than a night at the club. The night tends to end earlier, making it easier for those who have early starts the next morning.

Going to the races...

So, pub it or club it? The pub is my vote!

Is going to the races a class symbol?

Aday out at the races has long been viewed as a quintessentially British tradition with the opportunity to dress up glamorously and offer the excitement of betting. However, it could be argued that beneath the surface of this social spectacle is an event infused with classism.

Horse racing has traditionally been linked to the British aristocracy, with early racing events only attracting elite and wealthy figures. Over the years, the sport has opened up to a wider audience, but it is clear that certain barriers remain. From the expensive entry costs to elaborate dress codes, it is easy to notice that horse racing can feel exclusive by deterring those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds, making it more of a privileged event.

Beyond the ticket prices and dress codes, the classist culture surrounding horse racing also extends to its history and rituals, which creates a sense of exclusivity. For example, the fancy hospitality and private boxes at prestigious racecourses create an environment where socialising happens within segregated spaces, reinforcing the divide between the

elite and the general public. In addition, the language and etiquette used can be alienating to those unfamiliar with the traditions.

However, some argue that the races offer a chance for people from all backgrounds to come together and enjoy a shared experience. Many racecourses now offer a range of ticket options, making it more affordable to attend. Nevertheless, the juxtaposition of heritage with modern commercialism creates a complex space where inclusivity and elitism coexist, reinforcing the idea that the sport will not be rooted in classism.

"Is going to the races a fun social occasion or a classist event?"

So, is going to the races a fun social occasion or a classist event? Perhaps it’s a little of both. While the tradition of horse racing carries class associations, there is potential for the sport to become more inclusive in the future by striking a balance between maintaining its heritage and opening up to a more

Zoe Lett

Tom Wood - News Sub-Editor

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Image: Source Garry Knight, CCNull

Student “Sweet Treat” epidemic: are we wasting our money?

Zoe Lett

Do sweet treats really give us the energy we need?

As the hours spent in the library drag on, a cheeky sweet treat always seems like the ideal way to get a quick energy and happiness boost. But as your bank account empties and your energy fades, it makes you wonder: Are we investing in our success, or just spending money for a short-lived sugar rush?

When you eat sugary foods, your body quickly absorbs the glucose and releases insulin in response. This rapid increase in glucose can lead to a temporary boost in energy and performance, often called a "sugar rush." Some studies suggest that this intake of sugar can improve mood, partly due to the release of chemicals like serotonin and dopamine. However, these sugar rushes can be harmful because they cause rapid changes in blood sugar levels. After the initial boost in energy from rising glucose and insulin, there is often a crash when blood sugar drops, leading to fatigue and lack of focus. Repeated spikes and crashes in blood

Sub-Editors: Amala Parry, Jess Mooney & Scarlet Davies

Homesickness at Uni

Callum Borkowski

Is the Jesmond 'Rah' stereotype real?

Russell Group universities are a historically exclusive symbol of elitism in Britain’s academia, often associated with class privilege. The Times UK University Rankings placed Newcastle University 104th for social inclusion, revealing that 22.3% of the University’s students are privately educated despite only making up 7% of British school-age children.

Classist attitudes are nothing new at Newcastle University, as seen in the ‘Posh Vs Poly’ bar crawl, which was a battle of the cities' two universities in which ‘posh’ students would wear distasteful T-shirts that read, ‘Ur dad works for my dad’. Many of these privileged individuals seem to view Northern Universities as playgrounds for reinforcing their superiority, to live it rough and mock the culture they claim to embrace through their charity shop fashion.

Within Newcastle University student culture, there are stereotypes surrounding students that live in Jesmond being ‘Rahs’ who are characterised by their class affluence. With the local supermarket choice being a Waitrose, Jesmond is a commune for privately

"It is hard to ignore the link between consumerism and sweet treat culture."

sugar can lead to insulin resistance, increasing the risk of conditions like type 2 diabetes. It is hard to ignore the link between consumerism and sweet treat culture.

For students on a budget, spending £5 on a coffee for making it to the library, another £5 on a sweet treat for writing a paragraph, and a £20 Asos shop for finishing an assignment can quickly add up. The question is, are you rewarding yourself or punishing yourself?

According to Barclays, 47% of British people said they were happy to spend their disposable income on little luxuries that make them happy, even when making cutbacks on other things. This mindset is common among students who may prioritise instant gratification over longterm financial stability.

Student life is built on stress, with balancing assignments, social commitments, and part-time jobs. I think this is where students feel the need to turn to quick fixes such as buying a sweet treat to lift their mood, even if it is only a temporary high. However, this creates an endless cycle of relying on instant gratifications rather than managing the deeper stresses of university life.

In my opinion, the sweet treat epidemic has flourished as an act of self-care and kindness and is enjoyed for the sole purpose of “just because.”

@meldouglasyoga on TikTok stated “One thing about me is I’m a little treat girl to my very core. I don’t even make myself earn them because I’m practising believing I’m inherently deserving of my kindness at all times. I want a little treat, I get a little treat. The end.”

So go ahead, buy that sweet treat - but maybe skip the £20 Asos haul next time!

The Newcastle Uni class divide: does it really exist?

educated students to flourish, with overpriced coffee shops and a strip of student bars at their disposal. However, many students paint a romanticised picture of Jesmond and university life in the North, ignoring the harsh realities of poverty and homelessness in nearby areas.

The stark contrast between the gentrified atmosphere of Jesmond and the struggles of nearby communities serves as a reminder of the deep-rooted class divisions that persist in the city.

The illusion of a charming Northern town distances them from the realities of local working-class communities, reinforcing a sense of privilege.

Students from working-class backgrounds comprise approximately 20% of the undergraduate population over all 24 Russell Group universities, with individuals eligible for free school meals representing less than 4%. Falling into both these categories, being surrounded by peers discussing their gap years abroad and hearing how

“skint” they are despite having thousands in a trust fund left me feeling inadequate. I’ve had experience being told I am “lucky” to receive a bursary, yet it feels more like a pitiful compensation for the systemic disadvantages.

Working-class students would benefit more if they were provided with real resources such as networking events, industry experience and mentorship, which will put us on the same footing as our wealthier peers when we go into the workforce.

One of the most challenging aspects of being a working-class student is the uncertainty of whether we will reap the rewards of our degrees after graduation due to the lack of connections, especially for me in journalism, where individuals from upper-class backgrounds account for 80% of employees, according to the NCTJ.

"The Newcastle University class divide is hard to ignore..."

The Newcastle University class divide is hard to ignore, with data revealing the striking underrepresentation of the working class. The institution must work harder to make the campus a more inclusive and enjoyable space for working class, local and state-educated students.

What can we do when we start to miss our life back home?

Iwish that I had the luxury of being able to hop on a train and travel to another part of England or have my family be able to drive up to visit me. Yet the Irish Sea separates me from my family and friends. The very thought of having to get on a plane to simply visit home is daunting, making everyone back home feel as if they are another world away.

However, being alive in the age of communication and connection with the freedom to call or facetime someone at any time helps with homesickness. Although the joy that can be radiated from physically being with a loved one is not possible through an interaction over a screen. Also, who is to say that someone will

Moving to university and not having your original support group on your doorstep is a difficult adjustment. As so much of what you have loved about life is no longer an everyday factor. But at university, most students are universally experiencing homesickness. It is the people that you meet at university who will be able to make your new location feel like home.   No matter where a student goes to university, it will always be different from someone’s hometown.

Newcastle for me in the beginning was completely new way of life, as I was used to knowing everyone in a small rural village on the coast. But what you have found is that you can quickly adapt to your new home and realise all the wonderful things that it has to offer. I know now I whole-heartedly prefer the city life.

Creating a home for yourself in your university city is truly the best way to deal with homesickness. It makes you feel grateful to live between two different places, as you then never feel alone no matter where you are living. Ultimately, the wait to go home can help with homesickness, as with each passing day, it means that you are a day closer to when you will be able to see your family and friends back home. I feel very honoured to call both Northern Ireland and Newcastle home.

Creative Careers: the world of marketing

One of our writers explores different opportunities for future employment...

As a final year student who’s still not quite sure on what my next steps are, I decided to take advantage of the recent ‘Creative Careers’ week to explore an area of work I’ve not researched much before. I attended the 1 hour workshop on marketing run by local agency ‘Vida Creative’.  The workshop began with a talk by Vida’s co-founder Ellen, who introduced Vida and what they do, before explaining exactly how they meet with businesses and work with them. She gave us an overview of how they first start discussing branding options with a new client before having us form small groups and put into practice what she’d just explained. The task required us at different ways of branding a product for different audiences, analysing whether the business wants to be seen as formal or informal, corporate or casual. Whilst there was some hesitancy around the room, the task

meant that everyone in the room formed groups and began to discuss with each other. In my opinion this alone meant the talk was more helpful than others I’ve been to as it forced us all to converse, something I’ve found many people (including myself) are unwilling to do during career events. Ellen then over to student at who joined Vida full time after completing an internship with them during her masters year, an opportunity she found on Newcastle’s ‘MyCareer’ website. Jay’s talk was informative and helpful, with her advice being specific and focused, discussing utilising student society roles on your CV, rather than vague. Them being a former student at Newcastle also meant that they could discuss tools available to us as current students, like the career service, with personal experience woven into the discussion. Overall I’d say that despite this event only being an hour long, I walked away with a much more informed knowledge of what roles are available within a creative marketing agency like Vida and what appropriate steps should be taken if I choose to go into marketing post-grad.

Erin Neal

Abigail Charnley

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Image Source: FreeStockPhoto Image Source: FreeStockPhoto

Image Source: PxHere, raw pixel

Sub-Editors: Adelaide Dodson, Amelie Baker & Margaux Martinez

Monday 24th March 2025

Trump shares new AI video of his 'vision' for Gaza Opinion

Christopher Jenkins Gaza, a new paradise destination for Trump?

For months now, Trump has talked about turning Gaza into the "Riviera of the Middle East,’ changing a site where thousands of civilians have died into a holiday destination for Westerners and Israelis via American finance.

He has repeatedly called for America to ‘take over’ Gaza in the interest of the Israeli government and has said that under his plans, Palestinians will have no right to return to their homeland, a move seized upon by ultra-nationalist lawmakers in the Israeli government, who are now drafting plans to move Palestinians permanently out of the Gaza Strip.

“[Trump] just wishes for a playground to play out his sycophantic fantasies. ”

Last week, Trump shared an AI video of what he wants to turn Gaza into in his grand plan, and it makes for bleak viewing. The video shows ‘Trump

Elon Musk to remain in The Royal Society

Anna Holland

Is this the end of scientific integrity?

On Monday the 3rd of March, fellows of the Royal Society gathered to decide if Elon Musk would remain among their ranks. After over 150 of them attended, and in spite of an open letter signed by over 3,400 scientists, it was decided that his membership would not be revoked.

The Royal Society is the oldest and one of the most prestigious scientific societies in the world. At 365 years old, and with past members such as Charles Darwin and Sir Isaac Newton, it has a firm reputation to uphold. While the Society adheres to a strong apolitical ethos, in this current climate which is so driven by politics, the decision to refrain from any involvement is rendered blatantly political.

This is not to say that the Royal Society does not already have its fair share of politically contentious fellows. For an establishment founded in 1660, it would be naive to presume that Musk is the first fellow with… outdated views. James Watson, for example, one of the scientists who discovered the molecular structure of DNA,

satire to make fun of how the president talks about the Gaza Strip. But to Trump, satire is meaningless; it doesn’t matter how dystopian or cruel the vision is, so long as he gets to be

“The video was always intended to be a satire to make fun of how the president talks about the Gaza Strip. ”

With hostage deals in Gaza now going awry and Israel cutting off power to thousands in Palestine as a result, it's looking like Trump has 4 years to get what he wants; it's now unclear whether there will even be a Gaza at the end of his presidency, and if there is, what that Gaza could look like.

people were genetically of an inferior intelligence and that women should have the right to terminate their pregnancies if they found out that the baby would be gay. It cannot be denied, in spite of his abhorrent views, that he did make world-changing contributions to science, so his

fellowship, unfortunately, makes sense. However, Musk’s sheer political lunacy is only one reason why the Royal Society should have taken a stand against him; there are a number of other reasons why he should not be a fellow that would not compromise the ethos of the society. While other fellows have had problematic and controversial political views alongside their scientific achievements, none have been personally responsible for the complete

Musk. His Department of Government Efficiency (which I refuse to use the acronym for) has gutted over $1 billion dollars in research and education grants, effectively forcing scientific progress in fields relating to gender, sexuality, and the climate to grind to a halt. Sure, the Royal Society has its fair share of contentious figures, but never before have they had a fellow pose such a danger to the lives of everyone. It seems pertinent that Musk be the exception to their reticence to revoke members.

The most important reason, in my opinion, that Musk should not be a fellow of the Royal Society is that he is not a scientist.

The son of an emerald dealer, Musk made his billions buying tech companies such as PayPal, SpaceX, and Tesla, passing them off as his own, and significantly reducing their scientific viability (for example, Tesla Cybertrucks are banned in the UK because they do not meet safety regulations). He has not made any scientific discoveries or published any papers. When up against an undeniable rise in misinformation and fascism across the world, it’s more important than ever that institutions like The Royal Society stand up in the name of science. The only way to stop this dangerous rise is by stopping people like Musk. The Royal Society is in a unique position to change the future; I really hope it realises this and takes that opportunity.

Are we safe in the

hands of the police?

Wpeople are losing hope.

Over the years, horrendous stories regarding police corruption have been revealed. From Wayne Couzens’ brutal murder of Sarah Everard in 2021, to the 14 other officers convicted of murder since 2009, it is unsurprising that so many have lost faith in those meant to protect us.

The most recent police scandal: 25 ‘spy cops’ having sexual relations while undercover.

With many entering long-term relationships with women who had no idea of their real identities, to some even fathering children under false names.

The blatant corruption is clear: these officers did not care for a second about emotional distress they caused the 50 women affected, nor did they consider the backlash they are rightfully receiving.

product of “a wider culture of sexism and misogyny,” in the British police. It is no shock that the police have upheld a culture of institutionalised racism, homophobia, and misogyny for decades: going back to the 1993 murder of teenager Stephen Lawrence, a blatantly racist attack on a boy who is still waiting to receive justice. As written in the Macpherson Report, the severe lack of investigation was due to systemic racism in the police, something that is still yet to be solved

With the scandal gaining widespread coverage, the police force has been forced to respond, stating that the relationships were “abusive, deceitful, manipulative,” and is a

As a woman, it is getting increasingly difficult to trust the police. Knowing that many have used their power to exploit vulnerable members of the solely for their own gain, makes my skin crawl. This class of discrimination is still at the core of the police, and it must be dismantled swiftly to ensure that no more women, people of colour, and members of the LGBTQ+ community are affected by their corruption. They cannot complain as people scream ‘ACAB’, whilst not doing anything to solve the issue that is quickly causing us to lose hope in our so-called protectors. With 25 officers thinking their actions were appropriate – alongside managers who closely watched their undercover work – it is safe to say: “This is not the problem of a few ‘bad ’uns’ but systemic and institutional sexism.”

Image Source: Wikimedia Commons, Indrid__Cold; Daniel Arauz

Image Source: Wikimedia Commons, Gage Skidmore; Pixabay, pencilparker, acostajnalec, Katamaheen, Kalahari

King Charles III: The mediator?

Grace Loveday

diplomatic era for the Royal family?

Whave been promoted to a more diplomatic role. On the 2nd of March 2025 King Charles III met President Volodymyr Zelensky at the royal family’s Norfolk estate. The Ukrainian president was reportedly “warmly received” during his one hour meeting with King Charles and told reporters he “felt very grateful for this meeting” and the support King Charles gives to Ukraine.

This meeting comes just days after Zelensky’s disastrous meeting with Donald Trump where he was berated for not wearing a suit and how he ‘lacked the cards’ necessary to beat Russia. Given that Trump has now suspended military aid to Ukraine it’s clear that Zelensky requested his meeting with King Charles as a symbol to remind the world, especially America that the UK stands with and will continue to support Ukraine.

Zelensky is not the only political leader to use a soft power approach by socialising with the royal

family. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau recently trekked to Sandringham to meet with the King

role, the symbolism of the meeting

However, has not forgotten his longtime friend in the US

no time informing Trump of, calling the invitation “unprecedented” and “truly historic”.

“The King’s recent flurry of social activity with various world leaders begs the question – are the UK government using him as an unofficial "diplomat?”

Opinion 9 Keeping up with the White House

Joseph Daniell

America abandons Ukraine: A sad day for hope

in his nonpolitical

Oa second state visit, this was an unexpected move. A fact Keir Starmer wasted

The King’s recent flurry of social activity with various world leaders begs the question – are the UK government using him as an unofficial diplomat? The state invitation could be a way for the UK to maintain its special relationship status with America by buttering Trump up and avoiding ‘disrespecting’ America – a move Zelensky would have benefited from. Similarly, by meeting with Zelensky, the UK can make a symbolic show of support to Ukraine without potentially invoking the wrath of Trump.

As the UK’s closest ally seems to be becoming more isolationist by the day, the UK government appears to be using the royal family to stay out of the firing lines and repair their relationship woes.

How to win Eurovision

The age old question: is Eurovision all politics or can a good song win you the contest?

Since 1956 Eurovision has brought thousands of acts to our screens, some wacky, some wonderful in its annual song competition. Despite their claim that the competition is fair and puts rules in place to implement this, such as at home viewers not being able to vote for their own country, the statistics would suggest that there is a level of favouritism present in the game.

Countries that border each other or have connections historically, linguistically or culturally tend to form alliances. Indeed, the UK and Ireland typically vote for each other as well as France and Germany. Scandinavian countries often vote for each other and share their votes between

them.

the Contest” (Eurovision website).

These countries include France, Germany, Italy, Spain and the United Kingdom and, lo and behold, each of these countries appear on the leaderboard for the most wins in the contest, with France and the UK both winning five times, Italy winning three times, and Germany and Spain each winning twice.

in Europe (aside from Russia, currently banned from the competition). Many viewers maintain the stigma that if a country wants to win

English. They share this top spot with Ireland. All seven of their wins were performed in English.

So even though performing in English doesn’t guarantee you the win by any means, the statistics would suggest that it can help. With all this considered it still can be anyone’s game. Winners of the last ten years include Portugal, the Netherlands and Switzerland all of which do not have any notable alliances or power over the competition.

“The secret to winning Eurovision: a good song, a good performance and allies”

There has long been a debate about language playing a part in who wins Eurovision. Indeed, the big five who appear on the Eurovision leaderboard are also the five most spoken languages

Eurovision, they must perform in English.

Although 53% of Eurovision wins have been in a non-English language, songs performed in English still have the highest percentage of wins with 46%, followed by French with 21%, coincidentally two of the most spoken languages in Europe and the official language of three countries with five Eurovision wins each.

Currently at the top of the leaderboard is Sweden with seven wins. Their four most recent wins were performed in

So, the secret to winning Eurovision: have a good song, have a good performance, but it may also help to have a couple of allies and a popular language, as well as a financial foot in the door of the competition.

ver three years ago now, Vladimir Putin’s Russia invaded Ukraine, the world stood still in disbelief as the knees of a once strong country buckled from a whip of injustice.

Before however, there was hope and good hope at that. The democratic countries of this ever-fighting world came to Ukraine's aid. Society as we knew it unashamedly bellowed their support for the Ukranian fight against an immoral Russian invasion. But the big dog in this war was the U.S. America stood strong in support for democracy but that is now the past.

We find ourselves in perhaps modern history’s darkest moment for the alliances of a once democratic world. A cloud of immorality and evil seems to linger across the landscape of global politics as we once knew it. Following an oval office shouting match like no other between Ukraine’s Zelenskyy, JD Vance and Donald Trump, I began to see a shift. Truth be told, I was horrified. I saw a man whose country’s future rested on the shoulders of, quite frankly, a bully. The president of the United States of America was verbally attacking the president of Ukraine and not once critiquing Putin’s inhumane crimes. Though many supporters of Trump may disagree, I believe it is quite evident that the government of America has become what it once sought to destroy. It once sought to eradicate propaganda, tyranny, totalitarianism and ignorance. Now its own president basks in the fatal flaws America once promised to change.

Following Zelenskyy’s rightful reluctance to indulge in Trump’s misinformed narrative surrounding the war, Trump suspended all military aid and intelligence to Ukraine. Trump has given Putin no incentives to compromise. Instead he has praised Russia’s actions in the war. He now urges Ukraine to accept peace on Russian terms without any guarantees of security.

It’s a sad thought that America, the once leader of the ‘free world’, would allow a dictatorship to invade a democratic country, seize territory and thus create a dangerous precedent for the security of democracy.

Katy Woods

Image: Flickr, WikimediaCommons, Government of Ukraine, mododge16, White House, the Presedential Office of Ukraine, Number 10

Gnaw Way! Beavers back in England after 400 years

They're dam sure to stay!

The Eurasian Beaver has been absent in England for centuries after becoming extinct at the hands of hunters. On the 10th of February, the National Trust received a license to release beavers into the wild as part of their beaver project in Dorset. This was then backed up on the 28th February when the government announced their commitment to helping beavers be reintroduced to the wild.

Successful reintroductions happened in Scotland several years ago, where they now have a wild beaver population over 1,500. These statistics show that similar reintroduction schemes in England could also be successful and beavers can live in the environment they used to before being hunted.

not only create a suitable habitat for themselves, but they also create habitats for other organisms to live in.

This engineering can help to restore rivers and wetlands which previously were not suitable for very many species to live in. On top of this, beavers create dams which slows the flow of rivers and can reduce flooding in certain areas.

“Despite these positive ecological improvements, there are some concerns about expanding the beaver population”

Despite a reintroduction only just happening, there have been some wild beavers present in England for over a decade. It is likely that these beavers escaped from enclosures or were illegally released. These beavers reside in Devon, in the River catchment, and since being noticed they have been closely monitored.

Peter Burgess of the Devon Wildlife Trust explained how these beavers created wetlands that now contain species such as kingfishers and great white egrets. As well as this, dragonfly, frog and toad

numbers have increased drastically. Despite these positive ecological improvements, there are some concerns about expanding the beaver population.

“These beavers will legally be allowed to roam freely with no restrictions”

The beavers in the River Otter have also caused farmland and some properties to be flooded, due to their dams.

Despite these negatives, with close monitoring, the huge positives for the environment that come from beavers make their reintroduction very important. On the 5th March 2025, the first pair of beavers were released to live in the wild in Purbeck, Dorset. For the first time since the 16th century, these beavers will legally be allowed to roam freely with no restrictions.

Myths of Hydrogen as a fuel source

Our government has announced an ambitious plan to produce 10 GW of low-carbon Hydrogen by 2030 –enough to power 10 million homes. But how environmentally friendly is this fuel source and can this target even be achieved?

Hydrogen is only as good as the energy source that is used to make it. If the hydrogen is generated from renewable electricity breaking down water then there are no carbon emissions. This is called ‘Green Hydrogen’ and will make up at least half of the UK’s target. The rest of the Hydrogen will primarily be ‘Blue Hydrogen’, created from reforming natural gas (a.k.a.

“Would it be the holy grail fuel to solve the climate crisis?”

shows that green hydrogen is unsuitable for home heating with alternatives such as electric heat pumps with good insulation being much more effective.

“The real gem in using this gas comes in the form of long-term energy storage”

Methane) and capturing and storing the produced Carbon Dioxide. This may sound good but the reality is far from it. Consistent leaks of environmentally harmful Methane undermine its efficacy. There is no evidence to suggest that carbon capture could work at the required efficiency of 95% and at the scale needed. Yet, companies continue to claim it is an essential part for the transition to ‘Green Hydrogen’. Even if Hydrogen was produced completely carbonfree, would it be the holy grail fuel to solve the climate crisis? While ‘Green Hydrogen’ has great potential in specific sectors, don’t expect every home to be

This is because using renewable energy to convert electricity into hydrogen requires more steps (with each step losing energy) than simply using the renewable electricity directly. Advances do continue to be made in terms of hydrogen storage (e.g., injecting the gas into salt caverns), transportation (e.g., advanced stainless steel alloy pipes) and safety (e.g., sophisticated leak detection systems). This is fortunate as some industries such as ammonia and steel production will very likely require ‘Green Hydrogen’ in order to decarbonise. Although, the real gem in using this gas comes in the form of long-term energy storage. While electric batteries are more effective on the timescale of days, ‘Green Hydrogen’ is far more effective on the timescale of months. This means that when a solar farm produces excess amounts of energy in the summer this can be stored for the winter when solar power is less abundant. It is clear that there is no silver bullet solution to the climate crisis. However, using ‘Green Hydrogen’ for the decarbonisation and long-term renewable energy storage is likely to be a positive step forward.

Newton's Beer Mug at London Museum

Sapphire Ling

For the first time in 160 years, a wooden beer mug once owned by Isaac Newton is going on public display at the Royal Society in London. This unassuming relic, steeped in scientific history, may have played a role in one of the most influential works in science.

Researchers suggest that Newton may have used beer from this very mug as a key ingredient in his homemade ink, which he then used to draft his great work; Philosophiæ Naturalis Principia Mathematica. The exhibition also features Newton’s death mask and other historical artefacts.

The mug’s origins have been meticulously traced by molecular biologist Carmichael Wallace and historian Stephen Snobelen, whose two-decade-long research sheds light on its significance. Their findings suggest that beyond its use as a drinking vessel, the mug hints at Newton’s experiments with fermentation and inkmaking. Notably, Newton’s own ink recipes, preserved in his manuscripts, indicate that beer was a key ingredient in his homemade writing ink, possibly used in drafting Principia. Newton gifted the wooden flagon to his longtime roommate and

laboratory assistant, John Wickins, during his tenure at Trinity College, Cambridge. It was then passed down through the Wickins family before reaching the Wallace family, where it remained for generations. References to the mug appeared in historical records, including The Gentleman’s Magazine in 1802, which described it as a 'pint flagon.' Newton’s relationship with beer extends beyond ink-making. Though his lab assistant Humphrey Newton noted that he consumed beer and ale sparingly, Newton’s papers contain multiple references to alcoholic beverages, including cider and wine. In a letter to Henry Oldenburg, he even inquired about the best apples for cider-making, recommending the ‘Red Streak’ variety. The exhibition offers a rare glimpse into Newton’s personal artifacts, shedding light on lesserknown aspects of his life, including his possible use of beer-infused ink. Keith Moore, Head of Library and Archives at the Royal Society, remarked, “We often reflect on Newton’s contributions to science, but a beery vision of the great man is certainly a new one.” The mug will be on display from 4th to 31st March 2025 at the Royal Society, where visitors can explore Newton’s personal history and scientific legacy. Entry to the exhibition is free, offering an opportunity to engage with the artefacts that shaped one of history’s greatest minds.

Falling out of love with science

Alex Paine - Film Sub-Editor

Our Film Sub-Editor discusses the problems with secondary science education...

When I was in primary school, I always considered science to be my favourite subject. I spent one summer holiday making my own periodic table finding silicon samples in sand; I always looked forward to science experiments where we’d learn about resistance by dunking coins in water and syrup, and how to calculate the speed of light by melting cheese in microwaves - and I remember being fascinated whenever we did homework researching famous scientific figures like Isaac Newton and Marie Curie. Then I left primary school, went to secondary and within five years my love of science was slowly drained out of me, like watching a slowly deflating balloon left down the back of the sofa. I remember Year 7 Science pretty vividly, as we had a revolving door line-up of teachers teaching us topics I either really liked or found mind-numbingly dull. I’d always loved learning about space, the order of the planets, comets, black holes etc., but there were things I was looking forward to that weren’t nearly as interesting as I was hoping they’d be. I found myself bored learning about gravity and forces, and how to calculate how fast a motor was running. At first I chalked it up to me preferring

some aspects of science to others, but when I stopped finding even the elements interesting, I knew it couldn’t be that.

“I'd

all but checked out of science. I suffered through to the end to get a solid GCSE and then never thought of it again”

I quickly realised that I just did not find the teaching interesting whatsoever. These amazing scientific principles were being taught in the most flat and matter-of-fact way possible, and any practical experiments were way too few and far between. Of course, Covid affected us in our final year, meaning we didn’t have access to the labs - but the way that the subject was taught consistently bothered me. It was like the teachers would rather be doing anything else.

This was especially the case when it came to giving students help. I

distinctly remember lessons in lockdown, where some of us told the teachers that we felt like we were doing the work but not learning anything, to which we would receive the half-hearted response of “You’ll get it eventually.” What kind of response is that? A kid who might genuinely be struggling with the concepts and the lessons is just told to do the same thing in the hopes they’ll get it, when the same thing obviously isn’t working?

By Year 10 and 11, I’d all but checked out of science. I suffered through to the end to get a solid GCSE and then never thought of it again, now being guided by my interest in history which had blossomed while my love of science had continued to wane. I still remember a lot of the things we did in primary, but most of our secondary school science content has already left my head and I do not look back on that subject fondly. If the way the subject had been taught was even remotely interactive and engaging, and if my teachers had made the lessons exciting, then I wouldn’t be sitting here moaning. Alas, I’m now at university powered by a love of writing - instilled in me by my former English teachersand a love of modern history, also instilled in me by my former History teachers. There are many other happy memories of secondary school - just not from science. And for a kid who used to have such a passion for it, that says a lot.

Charlotte Chanter

Alex De Koning

Image Credits: Flickr, Pexels

Image Credit: PICRYL

TJanuary 20th - February 18th

he sun is illuminating your communications sector, employing you to be more ambitious. During this period you will be getting mini “wins”. Personally, I’d prefer some mini

Aquarius Aries Taurus

MGemini

he end of the month will see you aligning with a more practical side of you. It’s time to leave those day drinking days behind and become an

This will be a time of transition for you. Like the transition from winter to spring…your heart will be warming up too so you can expect some romantic encounters.

aybe it’s because St Patrick’s day has just been and gone, but this month offers you luck…in love. Love for those giant chocolate easter eggs that is, Gemini.

Cancer, this month offers you some peace and stability. Peace from everyone at uni…it’s time to go home for easter break and annoy your family instead.

Leo, if you’ve been feeling overwhelmed lately, have no fear. Things are going to start falling into place. Future career aspirations are coming true. Go you.

Thanks to Venus Retrograde at the start of the month, you will be having a cosmic cleanse. Time to do a spring clean up of your life - get rid of toxic friends and get your flatmates to wash their dishes.

With Mars supporting your sign, your mood and energy is going to feel high. But don’t fly too close to the sun and burn it all out at once. The sun shining is not a sign to daydrink.

Libra, this month you will need to focus on being grounded. Find the fun in the little things, like easter dinner with the family, and have an eggcellent time.

Scorpio, it's time to focus on your creative side this month. Paint some easter eggs, make some cookies and protect your inner peace.

Sagittarius, Venus will soften any rough edges around your homelife towards the end of this month, making it a great time for family. Indulge in the easter egg hunts your mum still begs you to do. Good things will come from it.

Capricorn, this month will be great for your relationships, particularly when it comes to your sex life. Expect some cream eggs.

Whether you're stressed about assignments or not getting along with your flatmates, Agony Aunt is here to help!

Dear Agony Aunt, I'm really struggling to manage the stress of third year. I've got so many assignments coming up and I don't seem to have enough hours in the day to get everything done. I'm feeling really burnt out and overwhelmed. I feel guilty doing anything other than uni work because this is the final push and I really want to do well, but it's making me miserable. Please give me advice!

From: A Reader

Dear Reader,

I'm sorry to hear that you're feeling this way; third year is tough. However, taking care of yourself is just as important as getting the grades that you want. To manage your workload, I would recommend breaking down your tasks and planning your week ahead. Don't give yourself an unmanageable number of tasks for one day as unrealistic goals are unlikely to be completed and then you'll feel like you haven't accomplished enough. Breaking down your tasks will allow you to complete then in chunks, so for example instead of scheduling 'work on essay', try 'complete 100 words of paragraph 1' instead. I can't emphasise enough how important it is to take breaks! You shouldn't feel guilty for giving yourself time to rest. Something I find useful is reserving certain nights of the week for designated 'me time'. If you schedule these into your weekly plan you can make sure all your work is

completed in the day so in the evening, you can do whatever you enjoy to take your mind off the work. It's also really important to take plenty of breaks whilst you're working. Schedule short breaks to go for a walk or watch some TV, anything to take your mind off your assignments. I also rec ommend changing your work enviroment fre quently. If you've spent a few hours in the library, try moving to a cafe or a different workspace on campus to give yourself some variety. It might be useful to arrange study sesssions with people on your course. This way, you can support each other by sharing essay tips and hold each other ac countable for sticking to your goals. Make sure you don't isolate yourself . Your friends and family are more impor tant than ever during this stressful period. Try and find time in your week to do something relaxing with your friends, like baking or crafts. If you need more help, don't struggle on your own! Reach out to your lecturers for sup

port if you need help with your assignments, or The Academic Skills Team. Also, look out

Abi Ogden - Blind Date and Agony Aunt Co-ordinator

Image Source: Canva, Pixabay

Relationships

Are we finally over the "Alpha Male"?

Are we witnessing the end of toxic masculinity?

The idea of the "Alpha Male" has been around for decades, largely borrowed from outdated and misinterpreted studies on wolf packs. The term originally came from observations of wolves in captivity, where a dominant leader seemed to control the pack. However, the scientist who popularized this concept, David Mech, later retracted his findings, clarifying that wild wolf packs are actually family units led by parental figures rather than aggressive dominators. Despite this, the myth of the "Alpha Male" persisted, repackaged by figures like Andrew Tate into a blueprint for male success.

"More men are embracing the idea that masculinity does not have to be performative or rooted in control."

Tate capitalised on this concept, packaging it into a brand that promised young men power, financial success, and control over women. His rise was meteoric, driven by controversial takes that thrived in social media's engagement-based algorithms. Clips of Tate making bold, often offensive statements spread rapidly across TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube, amplified by fans who

saw him as an antidote to what they perceived as an overly "soft" modern world. His message was simple: men should prioritize money, reject emotions, dominate their relationships, and never let women have power over them. But cracks in the façade began to show. Legal troubles, accusations of human trafficking, and growing public scepticism have dented his image. While his followers remain loyal, mainstream platforms and broader public discourse have moved on. As more people critically analyse his message, it becomes clear that Tate’s philosophy is built on insecurity rather than strength. His version of masculinity hinges on the fear of losing control - over money, over women, over status. Instead of teaching resilience, confidence, and emotional intelligence, it encourages young men to seek validation through material wealth and dominance. One major reason the "Alpha Male" ideal is losing relevance is that traditional markers of masculinity Tate promotes - domination, emotional suppression, and wealth as the sole measure of success - are increasingly out of touch with modern values. Younger generations, particularly Gen Z,

are pushing back against rigid gender roles. More men are embracing the idea that masculinity does not have to be performative or rooted in control. There’s a growing appreciation for emotional intelligence, vulnerability, and mutual respect in relationships - traits the "Alpha Male" framework dismisses as weak. This shift is reflected in popular culture as well. The rise of alternative male role models has offered a counterpoint to Tate’s ideology. Figures like therapist

Terry Real and former athletes like Marcus Rashford champion strength through empathy and responsibility rather than control. Even mainstream celebrities like Timothée Chalamet and Jacob Elordi embody a softer, more self-aware masculinity that resonates more with modern audiences. These figures suggest that success and strength don’t have to come at the expense of kindness, and that true confidence does not require the belittlement of

others.

"There will always be people who feel drawn to the idea of dominance and control..."

While Tate’s brand of masculinity may be on the decline, the broader conversation about what it means to be a man is far from over. The void left behind by his fading influence will likely be filled with new perspectives - some progressive, others regressive. The key question is whether future influencers will continue to sell toxic masculinity or evolve into something healthier. There will always be people who feel drawn to the idea of dominance and control, especially in times of uncertainty or personal struggle. But the increasing rejection of outdated gender norms suggests that society is shifting toward a more balanced and sustainable view of masculinity.

Are we over the "Alpha Male" yet?

Maybe not entirely. But the fact that we’re asking the question suggests we’re moving in the right direction.

The myth of "the one": do soulmates actually exist?

Is the perfect one really out there?

From fairytales and Hollywood movies, we’re sold a dream of finding ‘the one’-our real true love who rides in on horseback and sleighs the dragons surrounding our castle. Except, as students, most of us are too busy to deal with all that armour and chainmail and would much prefer our shining knight to maybe just clean the shared kitchen or help us study instead?

I’m almost certain that whoever coined ‘the one’ found their high school sweetheart when they were about 13 and never looked back from there. The concept of ‘the one’ is a myth completely. Believing that there is only ‘one’ person who is right for you is focusing way too much on trying to cement a romantic relationship and ultimately, it’s adding too much pressure to pick a partner just for the sake of having one.

But it's not all doom and gloom. I wholeheartedly believe that soulmates do exist, just maybe not in the way that you might be thinking. If you shift your focus from romance and open your heart to platonic relationships its likely you might already have some strong contenders for a soulmate. Maybe it's your best friend

whose sentences you always manage to finish, or maybe it's your nanna who always knows when it's time to put the kettle on. Better yet, by this logic, you can abolish the myth of ‘the one’ and have as many soulmates as you like.

"This logic though, is perfect for dreamers like me..."

It would be lovely to believe that romantic soulmates exist, and maybe I'll believe it when i see it but for now it seems so unlikely that anyone would actually find theirs. Think of all the people who ever lived and all the places they might have spent their time - it'd be a wonder if any of these destined pairs actually ever crossed paths. This logic though, is perfect for dreamers like me who can now feel as though their soulmate could’ve been their favourite late rockstar - namely Jim Morrisonshould fate have allowed it. And finally, the only exception to the myth that i can agree with: if you seek to find your one true lovelook not those around you, who you may meet in sticky bars or crowded lecture halls, but within to the one and only soul that can ever know what you truly desire. Or, in simpler terms: if you can’t love yourself, how in the hell are you going to love somebody else?

The importance of community: why we need to disconnect online and reconnect in person

Amy Marsh

Help! We are losing our social skills...

Social media has supposedly made it easier than ever to connect with each other, with it now being possible to receive instantaneous replies from whoever you want to talk to, whether they live down the road or on a different continent. There is no doubt that this has revolutionised our ability to organise plans and keep in contact with each other, but does the distraction of social media take value from in-person connections? Though technology facilitates the organisation of our social lives, it also invades these in-person interactions and makes less available to each other in person. The ding of a social media notification immediately takes people’s attention away from the actual real-life conversations happening around them, so that people end up distracted on their phones when they could be engaging in a conversation with friends. If I think times where I felt most connected to my friends, chats in a festival campsite with no phone service come to mind. With the constant distraction of the online world taken away, everyone can be completely present and engaged with each other, allowing conversations to become less surface-

level and human connections to properly flourish.

"How many more spontaneous conversations with strangers would we have if we weren’t always glued to our screens?"

Social media has made the world more connected than ever, and yet in any social situation we have never been more disconnected from each other. Look at any waiting room, bus stop or queue at a coffee shop and you will see people stood right next to each other but absorbed in their own digital world. At a concert or event, rather than being engrossed in the live music and dancing with friends, people will be watching the show through their phone screen, trying not to dance too much so they have a good video to post on their Instagram story. What would our lives be like if we stopped using social media to pass the time while we wait something in public? How many more spontaneous conversations with strangers would we have if we weren’t always glued to our screens? How much more fulfilling would our conversations be if they were no longer interrupted by our phone screen lighting up with a new notification? How much more enjoyment would we receive from our lives if we stopped trying to capture every moment for Instagram? You’ll only find out if you try…

Sasha Cowie

Charley Dobson

Image source: OpenClipart-Vectors

Image source: Google, Wikimedia Commons

Image source: Pixabay, RichardDujnstee

Trans women who inspire me this Women's History Month

Raven Orteza

Celebrating trans women and their influential role in the gay rights movement and powerful authenticity...

Loud-and-proud trans women are nothing but inspirational, and a beacon of courage to all. So, in celebration of Women's History Month, I will be covering certain trans women throughout history who inspire me and redefine womanhood by just being themselves.

Christine Jorgensen (1926 - 1989)

Being one of the first trans people in the US to be public about her transition in 1952, Christine Jorgensen made massive waves in her time in aiding the visibility of what it meant to be transgender. While of course there was invasive and negative press denying her identity, much media coverage of her transition was surprisingly neutral, with outlets being mostly curious without any intention of demonising her, opening up new discussions surrounding gender.

Because of how unheard of it was to be transgender to the American public in the 1950s, media interest and curiosity made her into a celebrity overnight. Jorgensen went on to have a career in nightlife entertainment, and in her later years became outspoken about her experiences and struggles, touring venues and educating the public about the

transgender experience. She inspired many people back then, and continues to inspire people today with her timeless courage that especially stood out in an era where the idea of being transgender was virtually unknown. Therefore she truly deserves a spotlight this Women's History Month in The Courier and everywhere.

Marsha P. Johnson (1945 - 1992)

Few have been as actively influential to the advancement of gay and trans rights as Marsha P. Johnson. A hardcore gay rights activist and loud-and-proud full-time drag queen, Johnson's most well-known piece of activism occurred on June 28th 1969 with her participation at the forefront of the Stonewall Riots. Her activism then arguably kickstarted a wave of gay rights campaigning that carries on to this day. She would continue to be highly active in fighting for LGBTQ+ rights, being part of groups such as the Gay Liberation Front (GLF) along with the Street Transvestite

Action Revolutionaries (STAR House) which housed homeless LGBTQ+ youth. She also personally aided in caring and advocating for those sick with AIDS during the pandemic of the Johnson attended her last pride parade in 1992, leaving behind an unforgettable legacy of fighting for what she believed in until the very end through all the struggles and hardships she had to face, all with a smile on her face. Johnson's unwavering spirit and contributions to trans rights absolutely earns her a spotlight this Women's History Month in The Courier. What trans women all over the world have to face automatically makes every single one inspirational in their own right. These figures may be long gone, but their voices will never fade away. You too, have the power to inspire just like them, live your truth just like them - even in a world that only wishes to erase you entirely. Everybody deserves to live their truth, so

Navigating yourgrief at university

Our experiences with grief whilst studying at university...

Experiencing grief is a part of life, but experiencing this whilst at university is an extremely difficult task. In this article, our writers explore this alongside their own experiences.

From talking stage to therapy stage: are

situationships just emotional torture?

Aarya Shenoy

Maybe you should spare yourself the pain and rethink your next situationship...

Having literally just recovered from a disaster of a situationship myself, I think I can say with confidence – I wish I was born 40 years ago.

Realistically, I know dating at any point in time comes with its own set of challenges, but I think our generation has chosen to make life harder for ourselves.

Enter the term ‘Situationships’. A romantic relationship that lacks clear labels, commitment or defined expectations. Couples in a

tenth circle of hell.

Our commitment-phobic generation has created the perfect term so that they have an excuse to gain all the benefits of having a relationship, without the so-called restraints of being in one.

It seems to happen the most during the winter season, when the days are shorter, and we all crave companionship as seasonal depression hits. A situationship can be perfect if you’re both aware of the direction its heading in, but it can also just be emotional torture, full of uncertainty.

"Too many people have been hurt by mismatched expectations and it results in a situation worse than a break up."

Creating new terms for all stages of the dating scene makes the process seem more complicated than it should be. The ‘talking stage’ as its called, can range anywhere from a couple days to multiple months, in effect stringing people along, or keeping them on the back burner.

There’s a movement to end the talking stage quicker and make intentions known faster – and thank god for it. Too many people have been hurt by mismatched expectations and it results in a situation worse than a break up.

Ending a ‘situationship’ leaves you with a thousand whatifs, a hundred unfinished thoughts, and a greater sense of loss than you’re left with after a breakup. I’ve spent many a night staring at the ceiling torturing myself over the ‘what could have been’ instead of being able to

It’s impossible to hate them, because they really haven’t done anything wrong, but it’s equally impossible to be friends.

"...you’ll find yourself in a limbo of emotional torture that you will put yourself through.."

Situationships create an environment that breeds feelings, but without clear communication – which will, more often than not, end in heartbreak. So date, but be cautious, but also allow yourself to feel. Don’t get stuck in a situationship because you’ll find yourself in a limbo of emotional torture that put yourself through.

So make sure the talking stage doesn’t develop into a therapy stage by situationships behind.

- Erin Palmer

Losing my grandmother a year before starting university has taught me that grief doesn’t follow a timeline. I thought enough time had passed, that I had processed it - but being away from home, facing new challenges without her, made the loss feel fresh all over again.

“I didn't have to carry the weight alone.”

What I’ve learned is that grief isn’t something that disappears; it changes shape. Some days, it’s a quiet ache, other days, it hits like a wave. I learnt to find comfort in small rituals - wearing her jewellery, reading her favourite poems, or simply talking about her with people who knew her. Seeking support from friends and university services also helped, reminding me that I didn’t have to carry the weight of grief alone.

Most importantly, I've learnt to be patient with myself. It’s okay if the pain still lingers, even years later. Grief isn’t about “moving on” but about carrying their memory forward in the life you’re continuing to build.

- Kate Kennedy

Over Christmas break, my grandma passed away. I found it difficult to cope with managing university at this time as I had as I had multiple assignments due the following week. I was heartbroken and it affected my motivation and ability to even open my laptop. I was able to get longer extensions than normal due to my extenuating circumstances which was a huge relief.

I also made more of an effort to spend more time with my family rather than being on my own as I found being alone in my grief was doing more harm than good.

My best advice is to talk about them with your family or those close to them, spend time with others also suffering from this loss. Talk about how funny they were, their habits, their kindness. Don’t let their name become something sad, celebrate them, treat death as what it is, a part of life rather than the end. And, this is cliché but remember that grief is just love with nowhere to go.

Image source: Unsplash, Karollyne Videira Hubert

Erin Palmer and Kate Kennedy

source: Flickr, Jackeline Fernandez

Image source (L to R): OpenClipart, Stockvault, Stockvault, Pixabay (heart)

Image source: Pixabay

I don’t owe you anything: toeing the line of self-care and selfishness

Elizabeth Fernie

When the pursuit of self-care turns selfish, it's important to get back on track...

You don't owe anyone anything is a phrase that TikTok 'shrinks' are circulating online at present. But what does it actually mean? Both literally and metaphorically speaking, it is often defined as not being in debt emotionally or financially: all dues have been cleared with nothing left outstanding, in any sense of the word.

This mentality seems to be becoming increasingly popular, but so is discourse surrounding it. The main criticism of this ideology is that it is inherently selfish.

We’ve all been guilty of it – being too tired and letting your dishes pile up, using the last of the toilet paper and not replacing it, forgetting to take the bins out. It

doesn’t make you a bad person, sometimes you just have those days, and it can be very easy to misplace others in the pursuit of prioritising yourself.

“...we do actually owe each other a lot... I would argue that you owe everyone baseline levels of respect, kindness and empathy".

But truth be told, we do actually owe each other a lot, especially those that you have a relationship with. Whether someone is your best friend, significant other, detached roommate or even a stranger you pass by on campus, I would argue that you owe everyone baseline levels of respect, kindness and empathy. These qualities are especially important when identifying the connection between increasing levels of hyper-individualism and rising feelings of loneliness. Hyper-individualism sees you as the individual set against the group (i.e.

me versus everyone else), killing any sense of community. This is a problem, especially for those of us at university, which can already be a lonely and isolating experience for some.

Flaky behaviour: behind the rise of our cancelled plans

Langdon

Why has ghosting in real life becoming more normal?

Has the fact we can contact someone at any point during the day or night caused us to not care about people's time, or is it that as a society friendships are becoming deprioritised?

By having 24/4 access to others, we seem to be drifting into a society where messages and connecting via social media is almost more important than actually spending time together in person. We care more about how our relationships look than how we feel about the other person.

“...there are some people who you’ll make plans with and

are some people who you’ll make plans with and instantly know that it’s not going to happen. Now, this isn’t too big of a deal if you’re in a group, and know that it’s not going to too negatively effect the plans. However, if the plan was just the two of you, then how long are you willing to wait around for it to happen?

“It all comes down to people's priorities...”

Realistically, if you know someone will almost definitely flake on you then you’re not going to want to continue that friendship, so why do people keep flaking if they know it will impact their relationships in the future? Perhaps it’s an unwillingness to put themselves in a different situation - maybe anxiety plays a role - but in the end, it just comes down to people's priorities. If they are not willing to prioritise you and your relationship or friendship, then it’s

your mistakes. Because, your actions do affect others, and pretending otherwise doesn’t change that. So, maybe a better turn of phrase might be “you don’t owe anyone anything at the cost of which

Beyond the chore rota: dividing the mental load

Lucy Langdon

You might take in turns changing bins or cleaning, but are you sharing the mental load equally?

Although you wouldn’t necessarily expect it in a flat share with friends, there is still a large mental load that comes from living in any house or flat with other people. You know those cute TikToks people make, where the first slide shows what one person contributed to finding and sorting out their house, then the second slide where all everyone else had to do is just turn up?

That trend clearly illustrates that one person, the one on the first slide, tends to be who is carrying the entire mental load. Which isn’t to say this is a bad thing, as long as everyone pays on time and does show up exactly when they’re meant to - it can work well. However, it can also be extremely overwhelming for the person bearing the responsibility of the mental load.

“It can be extremely overwhelming for the person bearing the responsibility”

So, where can you start to help? Well, the first thing to do is ask; even if they don’t want any help and would rather sort everything themselves, it can take a lot of the pressure off if they know you are open and willing to help. But if they do want help then you have to start at the beginning. When moving into a house or flat, as you’re beginning to sort out bills and rent, make sure whoever’s

account rent comes from (if you aren’t allowed to pay separately) then bills should come out of someone else’s account.

“It can take a lot of the pressure off just knowing you are open and willing to help...”

But bills are not the only place the mental load comes from. If this is your first time moving out then you might not realise how much everyday work comes from just living in a place. For example, you might have to read the metre, defrost fridges/freezers, clean the dishwasher filter and add salt/rinse agent, empty the water tray from the dryer, replace blown lightbulbs, connect the Wi-Fi router, clean shower/bath/ sink drains and de-limescale the kettle. If you don’t know how to do any of these, then now is the time to learn. No one will be annoyed at you for trying!

One way to spilt these up fairly would be to see what needs doing before moving into your place (for instance, if you don’t have a dishwasher, that’s one less thing to worry about) and divide jobs before you even get there. You could even divide by room if there’s a smaller number of you living there. Or if one person uses the dishwasher a lot more than others then they should volunteer to empty the filter and add the rinse agent/salt. The most important thing is to have this conversation before moving in together, especially if you’ve never lived together before.

Lucy

Image source: ds_30, Pixabay

Image source: bath/wine: StockCake, candle: LN_Photoart, Pixabay

Image source: itoldya420, Pixabay

Late

in

the game:

why it's not as easy as “giving it a go” with sports at

Amelie Baker - Opinion Sub-Editor

I've never joined a team sports club in my four years at university. Apart from the usual, and valid, anxieties around meeting new people and fitting in, another reason was that I simply hadn't played sports since before doing my GCSEs. And then, of course, COVID hit, so my A-level years were spent similarly sport-less. So when it came to uni, simply ‘giving it a go’ didn't really seem like an option - how could I sign up to a team with the sport skills of a 14 year old?

“I don't need to be part of a club to make it part of my lifestyle”

This is not a unique experience. When school starts to get serious (or as serious as it feels at the time) the first thing to drop off is extracurriculars, especially for girls. When I was younger, I played football, I did athletics, I got my black belt in karate. But it all stopped when I got to 16 years old, and suddenly it didn't seem ‘cool’ anymore, or I wanted to spend my time doing other things. Whilst most the boys I knew at school continued with their football teams or whatever, me and many other girls slowly dropped off from the teams we were

University

part of.

Looking back, I do wish I had continued to play sports as a teenager, but at university I don’t necessarily regret my lack of involvement in the sports department. I still exercise: I run, I swim, I even surf occasionally, but I don’t feel the need to be a part of a club to make that a part of my lifestyle. Whilst sports clubs do provide a certain amount of connection on campus, I still find time to be active separate from that. After all, sports are not the only way to feel connected on campus. We are lucky enough that Newcastle University has a wide array of different clubs and societies. If sports doesn’t feel like something you can just ‘give a go’, there are so many other options to join that offer different opportunities. Extracurriculars are a great part of the uni experience, but remember: sports are not the only way to achieve that community feeling.

Deleting TikTok gave me my own life back

Elizabeth Fernie

I had a severe addiction to doomscrolling. But deleting TikTok changed my life...

Many Gen Zs like me have fallen victim to The Doomscroll – the excessive consumption of shortform content on social media.

TikTok is the champion of this marvel with its ‘For You’ page, providing infinite hours of content catered towards the user. The app is designed to keep you on by studying what you watch and feeding you more of it. This vicious cycle debilitated me.

My doomscrolling addiction had a severe impact on my mental and physical health. It kept me up all night, sending me into just a few hours of unhealthy sleep that I would rise from at midday. I neglected my favourite hobbies like reading and journaling. University became less of a priority as I slept through morning lectures and procrastinated my assignments. Phone addiction is proven to cause higher levels of anxiety, and I noticed this in myself. I couldn’t read a book or watch a movie without an all-consuming urge to check my phone creeping in. What if I had missed something on TikTok?

I decided enough was enough when even placing a screen-time limit on TikTok wasn’t working. I quit cold turkey. At first it was tough. I reinstalled

the app a few times. But soon it got easier. And my anxiety was diminishing. Don’t get me wrong, deleting TikTok cannot completely eradicate anxiety. However, I found myself able to function better. I had a healthy sleep schedule. Attending University didn’t feel like a burden, and I looked forward to working on my assignments. Reading was a joy. Movies were a joy. And if you want a stat – deleting TikTok cut my screentime by 60%.

If, like me, doomscrolling filled the silence, and you don’t want that silence to drown you again, try podcasts., long-form video essays on YouTube, the radio. Your attention span is worth more than you know, and it should not be held over your head by tech giants. I know it is hard – I have tried and failed so many times to delete TikTok. Failure is part of the journey. However, if I could give you one piece of advice – Delete it. Delete it now. Do not let your phone dictate your mental health, your routine, your humour, or your language. Delete it, and you'll see (and feel) the difference it makes.

Hobby Hub: double edition special

Abigail Charnley

Stress relieving and strength building, yoga is the perfect student hobby...

If you’re looking for a new activity to try, yoga can be a great way to leave your daily stresses and anxieties behind for an hour. Going into the final year of my degree, I decided to get back into a hobby I originally started with my mum during preparation for my GCSEs. Whilst the stress of writing a dissertation is different to the stress of GCSE exams, yoga has been consistently effective at helping me manage my stress through its focus on clearing your mind.

Yoga is not the most physically exerting exercise, but it can help you improve your muscle strength, flexibility and posture, which can be needed after a long day of being hunched over a desk in the Robbo. Whilst it can take a while to master the yoga poses, something I’m still working on myself, the mental benefits of yoga can in my opinion be felt pretty quickly.

After taking classes every now and then in second year, this year I’ve prioritised taking classes after a full day of uni, with my favourite class being late Friday afternoon. This allows me to go home after uni feeling relaxed even if I’ve been stressing about assignments all day. Whilst I used to be nervous to go to a fully booked class, I’ve learnt that during yoga everyone is so focused on their own movements, you don’t have to worry about being self conscious.

Being able to challenge myself each week and using each class to attempt a more difficult pose has led to me really loving yoga. If you have a membership with the uni gym or one with classes, I highly recommend trying one of their yoga classes at least once.

Emma Hunter - Lifestyle Sub-Editor

A hobby that really strikes a chord...

Shower, skincare, toast, teeth… I start the day just like everyone else. With one key exception: playing guitar. My mornings are not complete without at least a ten-minute run-through of some of the pieces I know; it’s a non-negotiable. I love it and it makes me excited to get out of bed. If you truly enjoyed guitar then you wouldn’t need to make it part of your morning routine, you might be thinking. But playing guitar is the kind of hobby that only gets fun when you’re moderately good at it. In order to get to this stage you have to be consistent, which for me means making it compulsory. I have actually played guitar on-and-off for about ten years, with some major months- or yearslong hiatuses. It was only about a year ago, midway through my year abroad, that I picked it up properly. Moving countries brings with it an onslaught of sorely missing friends, words getting crushed in your mouth and being surrounded by strange new buildings and customs and people. To ground myself and clear my head, I asked to borrow a friend’s old guitar. It was severely out of tune and I had to brave the German cashier in the music shop to buy a new string. Seeing it in the corner of my room, dusted and tuned and restrung, I decided: I will play guitar every day.

And I did. Not always much, but always something. I started with some pieces that I’d learned before, horrified at how little I could remember. But bit by bit, it came back. I played more and more, found fun new tabs online, winced as my fingertips stung and my wrist joints ached. I marvelled as I mastered 7th-fret harmonics, spent hours scrolling through inspiration on YouTube, recorded myself on my phone and realised it

sounded pretty damn good. Back in the UK, nothing’s really changed. I love the satisfaction of building up a piece bitby-bit, I love the feeling of my fingers flying along the fretboard, I love making music that sounds really, really cool. Knowing I can get this feeling gives me motivation to tackle the sunny. I

Guitar

Yoga

Image credit: Pixabay

Image source: Franco Monsalvo, Pexels

Image source: SAM-RIZ44, Pixabay

Image source: Pixabay, BiancaVanDijk

Fashion & Beauty

Mums do it best: a love letter to our own Mother's fashion

Multiple Writers

Our writers pay homage to their mothers' style this Mother's Day...

Charley Dobson

There are too many things that I love about my mam’s style to fit on just one page.

I love how timeless her wardrobe is, as though she could predict lasting trends through a crystal ball as she bought each piece. I love how unapologetic and unique some of her clothes are, for example a Jessica Rabbit jersey top or her array of red, purple and green blazers (which put both business and party in the front, the back and all over). However, what I love most of all about my mam’s style, is that she’s kind enough

to share her gorgeous clothes with me.

Dhwani Masand

My mom is probably the most well-dressed woman I know, and I’m not saying that lightly! It does help that she has a career based in the world of Image Consultancy.

with all of her outfits.

I once asked her how she always managed to find the perfect lipstick combination for every outfit, and she smiled and said, "It’s all about balance."

She explained that her style is an extension of who she is, and that includes paying attention to the little details, like her lipstick.

My mom has been my inspiration when it comes to dressing well, as she is the reason I am the fashionista I am now! Her fashion sense taught me all about classic silhouettes, fashion do’s and don'ts, and how I can use my style as a personal statement. Her professional look is the reason why I am so fond of vests, blazers, and tailored pants! She’s taught me everything I know about styling and accessorising, and to this day, her approval of my outfits makes me the happiest. She’s always been a diva, whether it's teaching me not to be afraid of mixing patterns and prints or the fact that she was an '80s icon, wearing short shorts and sneakers to class! Most of all, imitating her style made me more confident with experimenting with fashion and developing actual taste by complete accident.

Love you, Mom!

Noelia Fernández Pérez

My mum and I have completely different styles: whilst I dress with baggy clothes and not much colour, she wears the opposite. But if I had to choose one thing that I love about her style, it's how she always finds the perfect lipstick combination

Fashion from the decade my mother was born in

Erin Neal

A dive into the world of '70s fashion...

My lovely mum, Denise, was a ’70s baby, a decade characterised by bold and eclectic pieces. Growing up amidst the height of bell-bottom jeans, platform heels and feathered hair, the decade my mother was born marked the adoration for disco and bohemian looks.

fashion. Fashion was thriving, with subcultures like punks, glam rockers and hippies developing many trends.

It was a decade defined by bright colours and quirky patterns. Pointy shirt collars and sweater vests were staples of everyday wear, often layered with chevron patterns or stripes. Statement pieces like Afghan coats and oversized sunglasses were also popular accessories, embodying the carefree attitude of the era.

Whether she’s wearing a bold red with a simple black dress or a soft nude with a more colourful outfit, she always seems to know exactly what will complement her look. She has a collection of lipsticks that range from deep burgundies to light pinks, and each one somehow feels like it was made just for the occasion. I admire her ability to make something as small as lipstick feel like a statement, and it’s a reminder that no matter how different our styles are, we can still find common ground in the things we love.

Melissa O'Reilly

My mum is a fashionable woman. Wide leg jeans, flowy shirts and

cinched dresses are common staples in her wardrobe. Committing herself to buying sustainable clothing that will, in her words “retain their quality,” she has recently found a number of favourite brands to add to her collection, namely: Albaray, Arket, and COS. My sister and I often steal clothes from our mum’s wardrobe, even buying the same clothes to mimic her style when we’re away from

The freshest floral fragrances for spring

Hannah Sexton

Seasonal scents that will turn heads...

and lavender notes will have you turning heads in any room. Plus, it’s said to be a dupe for YSL Libre! For another more affordable spritz, Sol De Janeiro’s Cheirosa 40 is amazing – black amber and jasmine give that timeless fresh, fruity and floral combination.

AThe 70s were a time heavily influenced by political and social change, which was mirrored in the fashion trends. Clothing became gradually more relaxed and free-spirited in contrast to the traditional, conservative nature of decades.

Celebrities like Diana Ross, Jane Birkin, and Cher were key figures in the 1970s fashion scene. Cher distinguished herself as an early fashion icon of the decade with her extravagant costumes and daring use of colour and accessories, while Jane Birkin popularised casual French chic in the mainstream. Diana Ross was the pinnacle of elegance, establishing glamourous gowns, beaded catsuits and sequined dressed.

The ongoing concerns for feminism, civil rights, and environmental activism after gaining momentum in the ‘60s shaped the culture of the decade, with rising individualism and experimentation within

“Nothing

was designer or branded, it was all hand-medowns”

For my mum, most of her clothes growing up came from leftovers her father, who worked in a clothing factory, brought home. She remembers being dressed in Rara skirts and tartan

trousers most of her childhood, her mother taking inspiration from the Bay City Rollers band. When I asked her to reflect on fashion from the 70s, she said, “Fashion is so much bigger now than when I was a kid.” She shared her own experience, stating, “Nothing was designer or branded, it was all hand-me-downs.”

The 1970s were a time when fast fashion had not yet dominated the consumer market and sustainability was more appreciated through DIY and second-hand stores; many had to get creative with their clothing choices. Perhaps we could all learn a thing or two from our parents' books!

s we move from darker, wintery days into the sunshine and blossoming of spring, so do the notes of our favourite fragrances. After all, the oud and woody notes of many stronger perfumes just feel too heavy when you’re out and about in the early spring weather. You might be thinking – florals? For spring? Groundbreaking. But, there’s a reason they always come back to reflect the season, and it’s because they really can work for everyone, if you find the right one for you. So, here are the best and freshest floral fragrances to set up your spring and summer scents.

If you’re looking for something affordable, that you can bring anywhere in your bag to top up your spritz, the Zara perfumes are a great option. Although they’re not as long-lasting as a designer fragrance, the price point makes up for it, and you feel a little less guilty using them day-to-day.

In terms of florals, I’d opt for either the Hibiscus or Golden Decade scents. Hibiscus has some beautiful notes of peony and orchid that shine through once the fragrance settles on the skin. Golden Decade is a little stronger, but the jasmine, orange blossom

I couldn’t make a list of the best floral scents without including Gucci’s Flora – it’s in the name! The bestselling Gorgeous Gardenia is a fan-favourite for a reason, as the pear blossom and white gardenia in it will have you smelling like the embodiment of spring, sunshine, and flowers springing from the ground.

Flowerbomb by Victor and Rolf holds the same accord – the Tiger Lily Eau de Parfum has more of a summery feel, with tiger-lily, bergamot and coconut milk top notes – but again, it’ll have you smelling so fresh you’ll never want to

These two are high end, of course, so if your perfume is something you like to a bit more money on, these are some of your best options. But any of these scents will have you smelling the freshest across the seasons and will have everyone asking you for recommendations!

Image credit: Erin Neal

Image credit: Noelia Fernández Pérez

Image credit: Charley Dobson

Image sources: Unsplash, Kelly Sikkema (hearts), Matthew Moloney (polaroid)

Image sources: Pixabay, Macey11 Unsplash, Anthony Garand (picture frame)

Image source: Unsplash, Andrey Photos

Sub-Editors: Agnes Kargbo, Mia

Fashion & Beauty 19

The commodification of the holidays: Mother’s Day

In the midst of celebration it is important to remember what this holiday is really all about...

On the surface, Mother’s Day seems to be one of the most wholesome holidays, focused around thanking our mums, but is this really the case?

It is thought that Mother’s Day (or Mothering Sunday) initially started in the Middle Ages as a religious day, where people who had moved away from home would come back to visit their home churches and mothers on the fourth Sunday of Lent. However, since then the day has become more about just appreciating our mums, and how much they do for us.

But is this really what the day is about, or has it become commodified?

Simply typing the words ‘Mother’s Day’ into google brings up a plethora of adverts and websites full of gift ideas, customizable cards, and day trips. Although all use phrases encouraging us to “treat her,” and “spread the love,” we are told that we can only do this through spending money. Companies use advertising to make us feel

guilty if we don’t buy our mums anything, so we feel pressured into spending money. Almost as if we have to prove that we care by getting her something big.

The gifts that are recommended for us to buy also come across as incredibly generic.

“...I think that something small and thoughtful will be a lot more appreciated than a big, but meaningless, gesture.”

Expecting in style: how celebrities made maternity wear stylish

Sasha Cowie

Iconic mums-to-be and how they empowered pregnant women everywhere...

Maternity wear has evolved significantly over the years, moving from practical, often uninspired garments to stylish, high-fashion ensembles that reflect the changing role of women in society. Celebrities have played a pivotal role in shifting perceptions around pregnancy style, showcasing how fashion can embrace both beauty and functionality.

Beyoncé

Beyoncé’s 2017 Met Gala appearance remains one of the most talked-about maternity looks in recent memory. Pregnant with twins, Beyoncé chose a dramatic and symbolic gown by Peter Dundas. The glittering gold, off-the-shoulder dress highlighted her pregnancy glow, embodying both strength and femininity. The sheer fabric and ornate embellishments showed how a high-fashion dress could be adapted to fit a growing bump without sacrificing elegance. Her look was ground breaking, as it demonstrated that maternity fashion could merge with the world's most prestigious events without compromising style.

standard for pregnant women attending formal events, signaling that maternity fashion could be as daring as any red carpet ensemble.

Kate Middleton

As a member of the British royal family, Kate Middleton has become a global style icon, and her maternity looks are no exception. Throughout her three pregnancies, Kate embraced a classic, polished aesthetic, opting for tailored dresses, coats, and skirts that balanced both elegance and practicality. Her favorite designers during pregnancy included Jenny Packham, Alexander McQueen, and Erdem, whose collections are known for their sophisticated cuts and flattering silhouettes.

One of her most iconic maternity moments came in 2013, when she wore a red Jenny Packham dress to a charity event just weeks before giving birth to Prince George.

The dress was both modest and flattering, a perfect reflection of Kate’s royal image. She effortlessly navigated public life while pregnant, demonstrating that maternity fashion could be timeless, demure, and appropriate for any occasion—even the most formal ones.

Chrissy Teigan

“...maternity fashion could be as daring as any red carpet ensemble”

Beyoncé’s choice to embrace her body during pregnancy and show up in such a bold, unapologetic manner encouraged women to see pregnancy as a time to celebrate their body and their style. The boldness of this look set a new

Model and television personality Chrissy Teigen has become a modern icon for mixing humor, boldness, and high fashion during pregnancy. Known for her playful, irreverent attitude, Chrissy’s maternity wardrobe is an eclectic mix of streetwear, high-end fashion, and casual, laid-back pieces. She made headlines in 2018 when she attended the 60th Annual Grammy Awards in a dramatic, form-fitting white off-the-shoulder gown by Yousef Al-Jasmi. The dress, with its daring cutouts and plunging neckline, reflected Teigen's unapologetic sense of style, challenging traditional ideas of maternity fashion as something modest or demure.

To read about Rihanna and Serena Williams, head to www.thecourieronline.co.uk

do is just spending time together, whether that be going to a café, on a walk, or a shared activity that both of you will enjoy. Especially now I’m at uni, I definitely appreciate the time that I have with my

Summer sun: how makeup trends change with the new season

As the seasons change, inevitably, so do our makeup routines!

As the sun starts to show, the seasonal depression of the winter starts to fade away, and with it, so do our winter makeup routines.

Makeup trends usually shift to accommodate the warmer weather, increase in humidity and the sun-kissed aesthetic remakes its appearance.

The sunlight improves our moods by boosting serotonin levels, and exposure to natural light during the day helps regulate the body’s circadian rhythm, making it easier to fall asleep and wake up at the right times.

“Vitamin D from the sun also plays a role in boosting the immune system and reducing inflammation...”

This reduction of stress on the body leads to better skin, which is why we’re partial to lighter breathable bases. Tinted moisturisers and BB creams give you a fresh, hydrated and dewy glow. Vitamin D from the sun also plays a role in boosting the immune system and reducing inflammation, leading to the ‘no-makeup’ makeup looks, that focus on healthy skin and barely-there makeup.

Staples of this include lip gloss and lip oils in peachy, pink and berry tones for a natural flush. Brushed-up brows and faux freckles tend to make their appearances too.

Waterproof mascaras and setting spray become

some other essentials to help withstand the heat and humidity. Many tend to be more partial to cream based products for better longevity and a more natural finish.

“...the sun-kissed look, and brighter and playful colours are used for eyeliner and eyeshadows...”

Sun exposure may influence metabolism and fat storage by affecting hormones that regulate appetite and energy balance, meaning you may feel less likely to need to hide dark circles by using concealer.

The natural glow that the sun leaves us with leads us to feel less likely to use makeup, and opt for more natural looks. Bronzer and highlighters are used to add to the sun-kissed look, and brighter and playful colours are used for eyeliner and eyeshadows to reflect the fun the summer season brings.

Enjoy the sun, but always remember to use SPF to avoid the damaging effects of overexposure to UV rays!

Aarya Shenoy

Image source: Pixabay, BiancaVanDijk

Matilda Dunne

Image source: Pixabay, BiancaVanDijk

Image source: Pixabay, TyliJura

The decline of drinking culture within Gen Z

Eliska Janska

Is our relationship with booze shifting as we get older?

Most students will probably remember their fresher’s week, or at least the first year at uni –whether you were involved or not, there were a lot of parties, nights out, and pub visits going on. However, it is unlikely that people will keep up with this type of lifestyle forever.

Actually, because of social media's growing “healthy lifestyle” content, a lot of consumers of these posts and videos, the majority being younger women, might feel prone to consuming less alcohol than the generation before.

Following from this, although a bit controversial, society nowadays is becoming constantly more open to the illegal use of drugs such as marijuana. According to CrescentCanna, “Gen Z is the fastestgrowing group of cannabis users,” although more than half of them cannot legally buy cannabis products. In 2024, it mainly involved people between 12 and 27 years old. Young people could sometimes go for that option, rather than a night spent drinking.

Moreover, with the rise of mental health awareness, a lot more people get prescribed

medications, which usually are not recommended to combine with alcoholic drinks. According to Mind, “1 in 6 people report experiencing a common mental health problem (like anxiety and depression) in any given week in England.” That makes it around 9.5 million people and younger people are exposed to this phenomenon the most.

"Speaking for myself, I can definitely say that my alcohol consumption has rapidly decreased..."

Speaking for myself, I can definitely say that my alcohol consumption has rapidly decreased, as well as the alcohol consumption of people from my social circles. Once assignments kick in and you realise that the third year is the last chance to improve your grades, your lifestyle, routine and priorities change.

Some could argue that Luther’s bar now running under the Wetherspoon partnership is a direct indicator to support students’ drinking habits,

Foody Focus Aidan's kitchen

This was our second brunch at Aidan’s Kitchen, and we were immediately reminded of why we chose to return. We were greeted by the warm decor, mouthwatering smells and very sweet staff, and we knew it was the right call. Aidan’s offers a range of full plates, add-ons, hot and cold drinks, as well as brunch cocktails!

A brunch made in heaven... especially since Newcastle University is one of two universities collaborating with JD Wetherspoon in the UK, alongside the University of Hull. That could affect Newcastle University students, as the prices for drinks can be sometimes 50% lower than in other places. Nevertheless, whether you like drinking or not, everyone has been growing as a person. Additionally, taking into account cultural changes, as well as university pressures, students

"After a Pancake Day filled with store-bought pancakes, I was ready for some restaurantquality relief."

Foody hear me outs

Beloved foods everyone seems to hate...

There are certain foods that are universally agreed to being... well, disgusting, and people who enjoy them must have something seriously wrong with them. It's me, I have something seriously wrong with me, because who in their right mind enjoys these flavours?! Let me preface this by saying - I think everyone who does not agree on this with me is weird, and that I am, on all accounts, right and should not

"The biggest

some incomprehensible reason, liking mint chocolate ice-cream."

The biggest controversial take of mine is, for some incomprehensible reason, with all the absolutely insulting flavours exist out there you will be judging me on something so absolutely delicious? Every time I share loving this

winner. Similar to my beloved misunderstood mint, orange just

I've dreamt of it every summer ever since I tasted it a few years ago in Croatia and then never

However, I can be self-critical and admit that some things I enjoy are not for everyone."

However, I can be self-critical and admit that some things I enjoy are not for everyone. I keep a dirty shameful secret, that being the

I, Taylor, ordered the green smoothie, Popeye’s Pal, in reference to the spinach in it, which Dhwani believes I desperately need. Despite the veg, it was delicious and had a nice kick of ginger. I, Dhwani, had the Berries smoothie, which was sweet, and refreshing. It served as the perfect drink pairing to our mains, which were rich and decadent. After a Pancake Day filled with storebought pancakes, I, Taylor, was ready for some restaurant-quality relief. The Dulce de Leche Pancakes were a fluffy fantasy, drizzled in a caramel sauce and topped with Chantilly cream, chopped banana, and chocolate shavings- it did not disappoint. A few more slices of bananas would have been appreciated, but you’ll survive with the provided amount. The maple crispy bacon side was also a good contrast to the sugary focus.

The AK Grilled Cheese with Kimchi in Northern Rye Sourdough was the ooey-gooey sandwich of your dreams. The grilled cheese was humongous, came with a side of Sam’s Buffalo Sauce, and the cheese pull was an ASMR masterpiece. The bread was crispy and buttery, and the hot sauce made for the perfect accompaniment, as it helped cut through the richness and added a spicy tang. However, I, Dhwani, would have preferred a more pronounced kimchi flavour.

We also ordered hash browns topped with Sriracha Aioli and Parmesan, which was the ultimate shared appetiser. While we wanted to try some new items, we agreed that these were a necessary re-order, as they’re super crispy and paired perfectly with the creamy aioli, creating a textural and flavour combo that is too good to resist!

After finishing our meal, we were both disappointed to realize that we had missed a tiny ‘Specials’ sign on the front counter! To think that there was a fried chicken sandwich so close to our reach! AK, if you’re reading this, please ask the staff to verbally mention the specials because we would have loved to try that sandwich. We were also quite full, so we couldn’t sample one of the sweet treats they have behind the counter, such as miso chocolate cookies, oreo slutty brownies, and cherry bakewell tarts, to name a few.

This definitely won’t be our last trip to Aidan’s Kitchen, as the huge portion sizes, cutesy and comfortable ambiance, and great value for money make it a go-to spot for great food and drinks. Plus, they even do 10% student discounts from Tuesdays to Thursdays, so you’ll always get a good deal.

Taylor Roth Dhwani Masand

Image source: stevepb on Pixabay

Image source: Sara Cervera on Unsplash (chocolate hearts); Anna Sullivan on Unsplash (ice cream); Andrew-Art on Pixabay (mint leaves)

Image credit: Dhwani Masand

Barbora Pacherova - Food & Drink Sub-Editor

Monday 24th March 2025

Food & Drink

Food from all around the world in Newcastle

Jessica Spridgeon

The best Spanish restaurants to try in Newcastle...

If you’re looking for somewhere to try to broaden your experience of the international cuisine that Newcastle has to offer, why not try the Spanish tapas restaurants that Newcastle is home to? Offering a range of small plates, this delicious cuisine can suit everyone!

Greys Street, in the heart of the city, is home to Café Andaluz, an authentic, refined Spanish tapas spot that is the perfect location to try Newcastle’s Spanish menu! This restaurant offers a cosy and intimate atmosphere. The wide range of dishes makes for the perfect social, relaxed, sharing atmosphere that a place like this can offer.

"...enjoy anything from crispy patatas bravas to gorgeous chorizo dishes..."

Fancy a trip down to the Quayside? With charming décor and friendly staff, is the perfect Spanish dining experience! This restaurant offers a huge range of tapas dishes with

great food at a reasonable price, providing options for everyone. Offering a wide range of traditional tapas, enjoy anything from crispy patatas bravas to gorgeous chorizo dishes and tasteful Spanish meatballs. The selection of Spanish wines offers the perfect evening of tapas and drinks to enjoy

perfect authentic engagement with Spanish culture in the bustling heart of the Quayside. Newcastle’s Spanish cuisine doesn’t stop there! Enter the rustic atmosphere of El Coto, on Leazes Park Road, for an enriching and exciting tapas dining experience. Student friendly pricing is offered with their special daytime offer, 12-5pm Monday to Friday, providing the opportunity to explore Newcastle’s range of international cuisine on a

"...Newcastle offers a range of unique dining experiences perfect for everyone!"

The range of Spanish restaurants to choose from in Newcastle offers a range of unique dining experiences perfect for everyone! These restaurants offer the perfect opportunity for gathering some friends and enjoying the vibrant social experience that tapas has to offer.

School cake

Sasha Cowie Sprinkles, sponge, heaven...

Forget fancy desserts— nothing will ever top the glorious, sprinkle-covered masterpiece that is vanilla sponge, drowned in icing, and assaulted with hundreds and thousands? Absolute perfection. I don’t know what kind of magic dinner ladies put into this stuff, but it had no right being that good. One bite and suddenly I’m ten years old again, scraping the plate for stray sprinkles and ignoring whatever sad excuse for a main course came

mission to relive that sugary bliss. I’ve tried supermarket versions (never quite right), bakery attempts (close, but not quite), and even my own baking (a disaster). But when I do find a slice that hits

Is food now becoming a symbol of social status?

Can the food you eat really impact you socially?

Videos of taste tests and manhunts for the Erewhon strawberries in the States have piled up more and more content under the food-porn hashtag ‘Erewhon haul’ over the past few weeks. Perched like a trophy in an award case on a white cushion, the singular strawberry– imported from Japan and retailing for $19 each– has become the recent magnet of the California-based upscale grocery chain for both its absurdity and opulence, standing as a symbol of indulgence. And where luxury is associated with scarcity, food isn’t just a functional sustenance. It’s a status symbol.

"Food has long had a connection to social standing"

But this isn’t a new concept. Food has long had a connection to social standing, with pineapples being an elite representation of wealth and power in the 1800s, with hosts borrowing the tropical fruit to display at their dinner parties. The pineapple wouldn’t be eaten, but would rather be admired before being transported to the next party to be ogled– it wasn’t about eating the fruit, but rather visibility. It was about signalling your capital and stance in the

social hierarchy.

"Food's role as a status symbol has been emphasised through social media and aestheticisation"

Fast forward to today, and this same dynamic pervades– but rather than remaining on the dinner table, food’s role as a status symbol has only been emphasised through social media and aestheticisation. Rhode’s recent capsule clothing collaboration with Fila saw an editorial photoshoot of Hailey Bieber spilling coffee and a grocery bag of vegetables onto the floor, positioning fresh produce into luxury branding and demonstrating a relationship between wealth and the ability to waste. In the same vein, Nara Smith’s fromscratch recipes of homemade Coca Cola and Cheez-Its, filmed in marble kitchens in designer dresses, are more about the privilege of time and resources–transforming cooking into a luxury experience in an economy where having spare time to intricately prepare food has become another position of social signalling. This extends into the category of fridgescape and restocking content, where status is displayed not just through what is eaten, but how food is stored. With rows of pre-cut fruit in glass containers, colourcoordinated drinks, and collections of non-

perishables in labelled jars, these videos showcase an excess of choice, time, and the ability to curate consumption as an extension of personal branding. The food is exhibited.

But the Erewhon strawberry, Rhode’s branding, and fridge scape videos aren’t just desirable for their exclusivity– they’re desirable because the indulgence coexists with scarcity, coexisting in an economy where salmon, butter, and baby formula are security tagged in supermarkets, food insecurity is rife, and work-life balances don’t allow time for intricate cooking. As the upper class

and organic diets, they vilify the working class for relying on frozen, canned, and processed foods, whilst pricing them out of the fresh ingredients they’re shamed for not consuming. When Gary Pilnick, the CEO of Kellogg’s, suggested that struggling families should ‘eat cereal for dinner’, the remark wasn’t just tone-deaf, but representative of a divide where food isn’t just nourishment, but a means of moral judgment.

From pineapples to TikTok hauls and homemade Cheez-Its, food as a status symbol isn’t a hot topic. But as luxury becomes increasingly defined by contrast– abundance against deprivation, effort against convenience– what we eat, how we cook, and how we store our

Sophie Jarvis

- Travel Sub-Editor

Image source: BrickBard on Pixabay

Image source: Bagini on Pixabay

Image source: Lenspulse and scr3amfr3ak on Pixabay

Thailand partners with Baidu: is AI having a role in tourism a threat?

Taylor Roth

How could AI and travel partnerships impact tourism?

Attempting to increase tourism in Thailand, the country has signed a letter of intent with Baidu, a Chinese multinational tech company that provides several internet services. In this case, Thailand plans to use Baidu’s digital platforms and artificial intelligence to “enhance Thailand’s tourism brand, promote key campaigns, and attract quality Chinese travellers,” as noted by the Tourism Authority of Thailand Governor, Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool. Thailand is intent on building their tourism scene, evident with the recent Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year 2025 initiative, but their decision to utilise a tech company’s AI to promote tourism raises concerns of how AI will impact the tourism business.

AI is making its way into field after field and worries spread with each sector it enters. While from a customer perspective, the use of AI can be exciting as it can make planning a trip quick and easily customisable, there are some dangers to keep in mind.

One concern is how places and activities are being suggested. Depending on how the

artificial intelligence is developed, it can lead to biases and point to few suggestions. For example, if the AI is fed information based on reviews already out on the internet, for example, TripAdvisor and social media, the suggestions it makes to users could be limited. This could lead to overwhelming business to specific places. While this could be great for those few places, this unexpected popularity surge can create problems, they were unprepared for, with a sudden overly critical eye watching over.

With a further reliance on AI to provide the ‘perfect’ suggestions, the recommendations must fulfil the expectations of all users, more so than they did before, and those left out must fight harder to get noticed. A similar phenomenon can be noticed on TikTok as travel accounts make the same suggestions, continuously drawing in patrons and pressure. With this in mind, AI used must be fed a diverse set of perspectives, to avoid this potential competition. Baidu’s AI assistant, ERNIE, is said to take in both internal and external knowledge to direct its help, yet commercialised AI may not have these apprehensions in mind as long as they’re making money. While many fear the AI uprising against

humans, there’s little attention paid to the current toll it takes. Water is required to cool servers and generate the electricity for AI usage, and according to Forbes, water used by AI could reach 6.6 billion litres by 2027. Big tech companies promise to replenish their used water, but with no plans revealed, the vow rings hollow. It’s imperative to consider this environmental threat, especially when trip advisors exist, who can provide a human quality that AI often lacks.

Tourism companies must tread lightly with their AI usage as to respect their local businesses, visitors, and the global environment. The benefits of AI in tourism may be inviting, but underlying factors must be considered to ensure that tourism, the world overall, continue to thrive.

Andy Burnham calls for Manchester tourist tax

Christopher Jenkins

Could an increased tourist levy improve Manchester projects?

The mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham, has recently suggested that Manchester ‘needs a real tourist tax’ after Edinburgh and Glasgow brought in similar charges for those visiting the city.

At the minute, Manchester has an optional £1 per room charge that raises around £2.8 million for the city every year. That money is currently spent on city cleaning for the city centre, something that has seen increased demand since being declared the ‘nightlife capital of the UK’ by Time Out magazine, with the popularity of places such as The Warehouse Project and the city’s thriving Gay Village.

“...a

tourist levy in Manchester would reduce spending whilst visiting the city...”

would not apply).

Edinburgh recently claimed that a new 5% levy that comes into force in 2026 will raise around £50 million a year and help the council make ends meet as the central government looks to cut costs over the next few years, however many in the hospitality industry have disagreed.

UKH, a primary voice of the UK hospitality industry, have claimed that a tourist levy in Manchester would reduce spending whilst visiting the city, citing a report by the Welsh government that a similar levy would cost the economy £35 million a year in tourist spending and hurt Manchester’s thriving hospitality sector. They make the point that despite the fact that other tourist cities do indeed charge levies to visitors, they come paired with lower VAT rates which ups consumer spend overall, and without lower VAT, such a charge would just be another tax on a sector with low margins already.

Burnham doesn’t have the power to authorise such a charge without Westminster's approval, unlike governments in Scotland and Wales, and the government has said that it has no plans to authorise any new charges on Manchester touristsmeaning that any new taxes or levies still remain a hypothetical.

Souvenir

Stash

Ioften travel, so in my suitcase there are always a few magnets and postcards flying home, because this is the simplest souvenir that will always be relevant. However, the last time I travelled, I brought a unique and dear souvenir for myself; one which reminds me of my native home thousands of miles away.

When I was little, my grandmother embroidered and gave me my first vyshyvanka. Vyshyvanka is a traditional Ukrainian garment. It is a shirt decorated with embroidery of various colors and shapes. Geometric shapes, flowers, plants, birds, and much more are embroidered on the shirt. Red, black, blue, green, and gold threads are most often used for embroidery. In general, each region has its own pattern with a special meaning inherent in it. Therefore, vyshyvanka cannot be considered just a shirt. It carries the spirit of antiquity.

Usually, our family wears vyshyvanka on the occasion of religious or state holidays, or family events (weddings, christenings, anniversaries). We don’t wear it in everyday life, because vyshyvanka has too much value for us, we respect it. In my opinion, there should be an appropriate occasion to wear it.

Dark skies tourism up in the North-East

At a time in the semester where exam season is creeping up and the maintenance loan is stretching thin, travelling to out-of-this-world sights seems like a far cry- but enter dark skies tourism. A way to escape the city lights and reconnect with nature without breaking the bank, dark skies tourism offers an affordable and out-of-this-world way to experience the cosmos, whether you’re a celestial connoisseur or after a casual marvel at the Milky Way. And lucky for us living in the Toon, the biggest hotspots are on our doorsteps.

Dark skies tourism consists of travelling to areas with minimal light pollution to experience the natural night sky, to enjoy stargazing and observe other astronomical sights. With the North East’s designated spots for dark skies tourism, you can spot planets, sit under meteor showers, and count the constellations, all in places with low-cost access and camping slots. So, where should you go?

Northumberland International Dark Sky Park

The largest Dark Sky area in the UK, Northumberland International Dark Sky Park offers one of the clearest windows to the final frontier in the country-on a clear night, you can get the chance to spot the Andromeda Galaxy 2.5 million light years away with the naked eye. And for an extra attraction, Kielder Observatory is perched in the heart of Kielder Forest, where you’ll find year-round event opportunities to engage in discussions about the Universe with astronomers, guest speakers, and volunteers and test out stateof-the-art astronomy equipment.

Durham Dales and North Pennines Dubbed an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), the North Pennines stretch of moorland under clear skies offer another fabulous opportunity to enjoy stargazing and space-spotting. The Bowlees Visitor Centre amidst the lush forest hosts astronomy and landscape-oriented events regularly, while the High Force Waterfalls and Cow Green Reservoir provide tranquil spots for a night under the stars. With this AONB, you’ll be sure to be over the moon with your experience.

Derwent Reservoir and Hamsterley Forest

Now I am an adult, I have many new embroidered shirts, but that one, my first one, was very special to me because it was connected with my late grandmother. Fortunately, I found a craftsman who was able to remake my shirt. He cut out the embroidery elements and sewed them onto a new shirt. So now I have clothes of my own, but with embroidery that is already two decades old. In my opinion, traditional clothes preserve the memory of the people and respect for their history. So I am very glad that even here in England I do not forget my roots and the embroidery reminds me of my family every day.

Last but not least, Derwent Reservoir and Hamsterley Forest are easily accessible spots from the Toon and Durham to take part in galaxy gatherings. Hamsterley Forest, in particular, hosts events in collaboration with local astronomy groups, offering a perfect place for beginner dark skies tourists. And for a full deep dive, you can visit Grassholme Observatory at Grassholme

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Sophie Jarvis - Travel Sub-Editor

Sofiia Korol

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Cultural appreciation vs cultural appropriation

Tom Tarlton

Avoiding blunder and embarrassment: understanding appreciation versus appropriation...

In an increasingly globalised and culturally interconnected world, inspiration shines from all around. Whether that be in fashion, music, food, dance or any other facet of life you could imagine, one can see the melting pot the world has become. Possibilities for cultural appreciation and taking full advantage of this collaborative environment are all around.

Nonetheless, this has come with numerous costs, one of which is the risk of crossing the seemingly very thin line between cultural appreciation and appropriation. The of Kendall Jenner with her tequila brand, 818, have fallen victim to this- and many readers may have this at the forefront of their minds, especially whilst travelling. Perhaps you want to buy some souvenirs, but are worried that returning home with certain items could be deemed inappropriate. Or perhaps whilst abroad you want to dress similarly to the locals, but are concerned about

appearing insensitive to local customs. One argument to be made is that of intention. Of course, if your intention is to rile some feathers or mock the culture of wherever you may be or have been, then it is clear you are appropriating and deserve whatever backlash or scrutiny comes your way. However, should you be meaning to celebrate or simply enjoy a culture, some might say, by all means, go ahead.

Nonetheless, others would argue intention is irrelevant. Arguments such as not acknowledging privilege or not giving credit to the culture you are benefitting from certainly ring true in many cases.

Conversely, others would dispute that perhaps, is this not just how cultures form? By exploring and appreciating elements from other cultures, we have the opportunity to create something beautifully profound. Just think to how many of our mornings may have started today, drinking Colombian or Brazilian coffee from an Italian coffee machine, whilst listening to a blend of American, Latin and music. I could go on forever. Is that not

As long as there is recognition of the diverse cultures that have brought these things to you, the majority would agree you are on the correct side of the line. But who are we to say? From Hanoi to Haiti, I’m sure someone would be happy to tell you if an outfit, cuisine, or hairstyle is alright to use for yourself. If you are genuinely worried about straying,

North Korea: the next travel destination?

Amelie Baker - Opinion Sub-Editor

Is it ethical to allow tourists into North Korea?

North Korea briefly opened up its borders to UK holiday makers for the first time since it sealed itself off at the start of the pandemic in early 2020.

Previously, Russian tourists had been allowed into the country earlier in 2024. Prior to the closure of its borders, North Korea saw around 350,000 foreign tourists in 2019, the majority of which were Chinese. On the 20th of February 2025, it allowed the first Western tourists into Rason, a city that has been earmarked as the testing zone for new financial policies.

However, the country has now halted the influx of tourists. The Pyongyang Marathon had been accepting international applications for the first time, but it is now unclear whether this process will continue. Many tourism companies in North Korea are warning clients against paying for flights until the situation becomes clearer.

But this potential opening of borders does raise the question of whether some places should become holiday destinations.

In South Korea, the DMZ (the

demilitarised zone between the North and South) is a very popular tourist destination, with tours into the abandoned area where visitors can see tunnels dug by the people desperate to cross back in the South. Whilst it is important to learn about the plight of such struggle and the conflict that happened between the two countries, is the site of so many people’s pain really something people should be adding to their itineraries alongside ‘trying Korean BBQ’ and ‘a night out in Itaewon’?

“...Its status as a tourist destination should not overcome that its still a very strict dictatorship.”

Similarly, a trip to North Korea should not be taken lightly. Whether the country decides to continue to accept Western tourists or not, its status as a tourist destination should not overcome the fact that it is still a very strict dictatorship. It's not the place to spice up an Instagram feed, nor is it a zoo where life under a harsh regime can be observed like a circus. It's a country filled with real people, people whose travel is strictly prohibited unless given permission - a fact that should not be forgotten.

Last minute home getaways this Easter

Erin Neal Fancy getting-howay from Newcastle for early Spring, without breaking the bank? We've got you...

ideal spot to make the most of the lovely weather this Easter before tourist season begins. Belfast, Northern Ireland

For a swift yet memorable getaway, catch an early flight into the capital, then dive straight

Our recommendations...

Jophie

For the beginning of Spring, you can't go wrong with Bristol. The best charity shops, markets, green spaces to picnic and soak up the sun, and gorgeous architecture. And, you can get an extra day trip with Bath on your doorstep!

Eldog

Edinburgh and Glasgow have so much to offer but don't overlook Inverness, the gateway to the Scottish Highlands. Use the city as your base and explore the mountains and lochs with a healthy side of highland cows!

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Mickey 17: A masterclass in merging sci-fi and politics

Maddy Kendall

Bong Joon-ho's back! But is Mickey 17 as wonderfully weird as his past work?

There’s no other way to describe Mickey 17 other than a: sciencefiction spectacle which is dark, gross and intensely absurd. We follow Robert Pattinson’s character Mickey, an “expendable” (the name given to people who are disposable and can be cloned after death) as he moves through a new planet that begins to be colonized by Mark Ruffalos’ character “Kenneth Marshall” as he slowly starts an uprising.

The plot cannot be explained further than that without giving away what makes it incredible, it’s beautifully unassuming with no defining genre. It gracefully moves from comedy to action to drama with incredible fluidity that only Bong Joon-ho could achieve.

The performances of the whole cast are incredible with even more minor characters (like Steven Yeuns’ Timo) making it impossible to take your eyes off the screen. My personal favourite performance was Mark Ruffalo's character who is a maniacal dictator who has

many resemblances to world leaders todaydespite Joon-ho’s denial. Marshall is the perfect villain, in a strange trend of villains getting redemption or having to have a reason, it was so refreshing to see a truly evil character.

Pattinson delivers a stellar performance managing to make each clone individual whilst still having the same core character traits. Some of this credit must also go to the hair and makeup department who manage to only slightly alter his appearance so you know which clone is which whilst still being the same person.

"The best action film since The Batman, maybe Pattinson is made to redo the genre"

One unique aspect of this film is the sound design, it doesn’t follow the usual mono sound in which it all comes out in the same levels of one channel. Instead it creates an immersive experience as characters who are speaking away from the camera are put to the left or right

of the speakers. When I first heard this it startled me as I thought people were speaking behind me but when I realised it was the characters speaking to the side- even background chatter and laughter- it only elevated my experience.

The alien design is also unique, they aren’t human-like in the slightest making it easier to sympathise with them. There’s one scene in particular in which we hear them speak and, of course, don’t understand them, yet despite them being practically all CGI the emotion is there and is impossible to not have

Disney's Snow White debacle: can the remake be saved?

Dylan Seymour

- Sport Sub-Editor

At this point, does anyone look forward to a Disney remake?

Putting it lightly, cultural norms and standards have shifted slightly since 1937 and the release of Disney's original the Seven Dwarfs

The thirties saw decades of ineffective centrist government give way to fascism, war in Europe, and open rhetoric of ethnic cleansing, all armed and funded by the ultra-rich. Such a concept seems otherworldly to us today, so it's no wonder the upcoming live-action remake needed to tweak its source material. Let's see how they're getting on, shall we?

Let's start with former soldier for Israeli Defence Forces, actress Gal Gadot. Some would deem it irresponsible of Disney to cast an actress who had joined the IDF and has been seen to collaborate with Israeli Prime Minister Isaac Herzog since 2019. Herzog has been found to claim that there are "no innocent civilians in Gaza". The controversy that followed Gadot's casting has certainly done nothing for the film's prospects. Next up, in the saddest corner of internet discourse, we have the anti-woke warriors. They haven't

left their childhood bedroom yet, but you'd better believe they're scouring every single media release to see whether it fits into "woke" and "anti-woke" boxes. The casting of Latina actress Rachel Zegler as Snow White's titular princess, then, set alarms blaring in the reactionary community. "It's not realistic, It's a European story" shout racists on

topic for any remake to cover. Those with dwarfism have historically been ridiculed, both in media and in public - a trend which continues today. Exemplifying this difficulty, actor Peter Dinklage, who lives with the dwarfism-causing condition achondroplasia, criticised Disney. In his view, the media company feigned progressivism by casting a Latina actress yet still wanted to tell a harmful story of "seven dwarfs living in a cave." It's arguable that the film should have just never been remade, and Dinklage is a prominent figure voicing this sentiment.

“Oh dear Disney, what a mess you've made! Whether out of silly culture war delusion or not, nobody likes your film anymore!”

Oh dear Disney, what a mess you've made! Whether out of silly culture war delusion or not, nobody likes your film anymore!

“All signs point to an underwhelming release, condemning the film to a life on Disney+.”

Snow White is, in this veritable Mickey Mouse expert's opinion, likely to be simply another movie in the long, long list of "crap Disney live action remakes". I still have nightmares after watching the 1h45m of slop that was the live action Lion King, and I doubt things are going to get any better. All signs point to an underwhelming release, followed by the board condemning the film to a life on the Disney+ recommended tab.

The film does have some flaws, I found that the over 2 hour runtime to be a bit too much for what actually happens and Toni Collette's characters’ running “sauce” joke to be tedious - but these have little effect on how great this film is. The film may be long but it is truly worth the watch, it’s perfectly timed in today's political climate whilst still being light-hearted (mostly). The acting is superb and the writing shows off its wit in a charming way. To me, it’s the best action film The Batman, maybe Pattinson is made to re-do the

What are we watching?

This week's recommendations from our sub-editors...

Alex: In Bruges (2008)

To this day In Bruges has one of the best scripts I've ever seen for a film. So tight, so funny, and led brilliantly by the genius pairing of Colin Farrell and Brendan Gleeson. If you want to see a dark comedy set in Europe, this is probably about as good as it gets!

Charlotte: The End We Start From (2023)

As London is submerged under floodwaters a woman (Jodie Comer) gives birth to her first child. This wonderful book adaptation is beautifully shot and almost guarenteed to bring you to tears. If you want a tale of new beginnings as spring approaches, give this film a watch!

Ciara:

Hunt for the Wilderpeople (2016)

Spring has sprung but so have assigments. This New Zealand comedy from Taika Waititi is pure escapism, a hilarious and heartwarming story of being lost in the woods, led by Julian Dennison and Sam Neill. Perfect for those us feeling the urge to get out and touch grass.

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‘Gaza: How to Survive a Warzone’ pulled by the BBC over Hamas links

Melissa O'Reilly

Does this pulled Gaza documentary add fuel to the fire of BBC bias?

The BBC has faced several controversies over the decades, and they seem to be in the middle of another. The recent documentary ‘Gaza: How to Survive a Warzone’ revealed the reality of life for young people in Gaza, a stance rarely shown in the Western media despite the 11,000 Palestinian children killed by Israel since October 2023 (as of September 2024 according to Oxfam).

"Was this a crucial piece of journalism that shows the lived experiences of children...since Nakba began in 1948?"

With this number only increasing – and the

West complicit in this genocide – it shocked many when the BBC decided to pull the documentary, when it was revealed that the 13 year old narrator is the son of Hamas’ deputy minister of agriculture. When discovering that the narrator, Abdullah al-Yazouri, was paid for his contribution to the documentary, the BBC has faced even further backlash. We must ask questions: was this a statement against the organisation who have killed 1000 Israelis since October 7th, or the removal of a crucial piece of journalism that shows the lived experiences of children; those who have been murdered and displaced from their homes since Nakba began in 1948?

“For many it seemed that the BBC was finally deciding to humanise those trapped in Gaza"

Although the actions of Hamas should not be celebrated, I can’t help but believe it is the latter. The documentary itself was not related to Hamas but showcased the untold story of the civilians living in Palestine. Due to Britian’s association with Israel, and a severe lack of condemnation for Netanyahu’s government, this reality is rarely shown on our screens, news outlets deciding to

disregard this narrative completely. This is why the documentary was so significant: for many, it seemed that the BBC was finally deciding to humanise those trapped in Gaza, those who have become victims of ethnic cleansing and violence at the hand of the IDF. Whilst the BBC cannot be seen to support Hamas in anyway – and would have received even more backlash if they had not pulled the documentary from our screens – I feel incredibly disappointed by their actions.

"This film is an essential piece of journalism...which amplifies voices so often silenced."

-letter to the BBC

I am not alone in this belief: a letter signed by over 800 media personalities was sent to the BBC, strongly condemning their decision. Signed notably by former sports commentator Gary Lineker, alongside many others, the letter expressed frustration for the corporation, stating: “This film is an essential piece of journalism, offering an all-too-rare perspective on the lived experiences of Palestinian children living in unimaginable circumstances, which amplifies voices so often silenced.”

Marching Powder : A film that helps rejuvenate the football factory generation

Cory Gourley - TV Sub-Editor

Does the cocaine-filled comedy deserve all the criticism?

Everyone’s favourite geezer, Danny Dyer, has teamed up with writer-director Nick Love once again in this wild journey through cocaine addiction and football hooliganism to show the Football Factory generation that there’s still life in them yet .

Dyer plays Jack, who with a rather alpha presence doesn’t let us forget that he is a middle-aged cocaine addict who indulges regularly in football riots, with his equally aged cocaine addicted the name of his lower league football clubthat is crying out for some premier leagueesque anti-hooligan measures (Yes, it really is that unsubtle!)

The film has a solid plot with a network of strong supporting characters. Jack loves his wife Dani but a dutiful house-husband he is not. He doesn’t work, is financially supported by his father-in-law and has more than a few brushes with the law. It is one of these brushes with the law that leads to Jack being given an ultimatumclean his act up or face prison.

This provokes many more moments where Dyer breaks the fourth-wall and talks to camera, in what could

be argued as some of the most boisterous and outrageous moments in the last decade of British Cinema. Now, is this film the best thing that will ever grace the silver screen? Absolutely not! It is clumsy at times and the push towards “antiwoke” humour is unnecessary and uncomfortable. However, I do not think it deserves the grilling it has received so far in the mainstream press.  Dyer, I believe, has produced some fine work over the course of his career which is often overlooked by classist stereotyping and presumptions. Ask anyone who says they “can’t stand Danny Dyer”, why, and the shutters will come down. They often , like much of Dyer and Love’s work resonates with a certain type of working class person. It highlights a type of alpha, working class redundancy that we all know, that we are all

will will resonate with fans of other indie-Brit Pics, particularly Football Factory (also featuring Dyer  and written by Love) and This is England

“In shining the light back on the working class, redundant alpha, this film is reminding people that these men do still exist.”

From a young age, this type of laddish culture was something I knew all too well. I was raised on a diet of Soccer AM and second hand Carlsberg fumes. Therefore, strangely or perhaps more so incredibly I find this type of Brit-Pic rather comforting.  I know for a fact that I won’t be the only one. In shining the light back on the working class, redundant alpha, this film is reminding people that these men do still exist. It reminds people that this way of life is not squashed into a corner of an EastEnders-esque estate in Peckham.

Shrek yep or Shrek wreck?

Margaux Martinez - Opinion Sub-Editor

Mirror, mirror on the wall, will Shrek 5 be the best of all?...

On the 27 of February, on an already glorious day weatherwise, it was further improved when Universal Studios announced the cast of Shrek 5.

As a big Shrekster, I was incredibly pleased to see the original three of the cast staying on. No one can trump Eddie Murphy in his donkey portrayal. I was then further excited by the addition of Zendaya. Her very recognisable voice and remarkable acting are sure to make this a great film. It would be a disservice not to mention Cameron Diaz’s impeccable portrayal of feminism, helping so many girls embrace the ogre in them. More than just an entertaining animation film, Shrek shaped a whole generation of people through jokes and music.

Initially afraid of a renewal, I was pleased to see gorgeous animation – which, of course, looks different, but that is simply because we have even better techniques now. There are some great anxieties around me about this film being one too many Shreks.

“I’m all Shreked out” - a very close source of mine disclosed.

From the teaser, what worries me were the references to Gen Z and Gen Alpha pop culture. As many fans of Shrek do not fall necessarily within those age groups, I am worried that it might not cater to their nostalgia. However, I am excited to see a whole generation get excited about Shrek and hopon to the wondrous adventure that the Shrek-universe has to offer.

I wouldn’t fret about Shrek. We have no idea what is in store for us. It’s coming out in Christmas 2026 (#Shrekmas), no need to stress or bully the animators into redrawing an entire film, we’ll reach that bridge when we

“It's voicing the often silenced and marginalised, those who are often seen as invisible by society”

It’s voicing the often silenced and marginalised, those who are often seen as invisible by society. With this in mind, the film will help remind the Football Factory generation that they have not been forgotten about. They still exist and that they still have life in them yet. So, yes, this film centres around a cocaine enthusiast with a love for football hooliganism. However, Marching is a delight for those raised on Football This is England. Not only that but it reminds that very demographic that life may have

Nick Love and Danny Dyer take a bow, for the sake of nostalgia if nothing else.

Gig venue spotlight: Anarchy Brewery Co.

Hidden away in what appears to be an abandoned warehouse, just a few metres away from Walkergate Metro station, is the Anarchy Brewery. Typically known for their extensive range of unique beers, which can be found in several pubs across Newcastle, the Anarchy Brewery is also a lesser-known gig venue. Despite the beerstained floors, dim lighting, and sea of mohicans, it’s a very eccentric and cool gig venue that I recommend you visit at some point!

The first time I went to the Anarchy Brewery I was with my flatmates and my parents. We had gone to see the folk-rock band Black Water County – a band who know exactly how to raise a roof and give their audience a good time. I’ll admit that the initial journey to the Brewery didn’t give me much hope that it would be as nice venue, as we got lost near a building site trying to find the place. Once we did arrive, and saw how many leather jackets and dyed heads of hair there were dotted around, I did feel a little intimidated…

It felt like we’d walked into the middle of a motorbike rally, and I felt very out of place in my knitted jumper and jeans. Not to mention that my flatmates and I didn’t only stand out physically, but we also seemed to bring the average age down by at least 20 years.

However, we were embraced into the Anarchy Brewery with open arms. The bar staff were very lovely and were happy to explain the origins of their unique selection of beers. Though I’m not much of a beer drinker myself, I did try one of their pale ales and was pleasantly surprised! I do recommend at least trying some of their beers if you go (it feels wrong to go to a brewery and not drink beer).

Though I was initially intimidated to be surrounded by several men with dyed mohawks (I’ve honestly never seen so many in one place), I can safely say that they’re generally a delight to be at a gig with. The punk culture of the Anarchy Brew is what makes it such a unique, exciting and welcoming gig location.

The second time I attended the venue, I felt no less welcomed. This time my flatmates and I had returned to see Hannah Wicklund - a sensational American singer/ songwriter. This time there were noticeably more people our age, though I did still spot a leather jacket or two and a singular mohawk bobbing near the front of the crowd. Hannah brought the house down with her incredible guitar riffs, and for her more acoustic solos her voice echoed almost hauntingly through the warehouse. There’s something about the venue which does make it feel very isolated and separate from the bustling city centre, anchoring you to the moment and the space.

The Anarchy Brewery is not just a gig venue.They also host a range of different events from wrestling to football showings, and of course brewery tours and beer tasting. I recommend visiting at least once during your time at Newcastle. It’s a venue seemingly suspended in the punk rock era and is the perfect location to see live rock music. Or you could just go and taste some beer, your call.

The death of UK pop: global charts lack UK artists

Kole Cornish

Is the UK popstar a thing of the past?

For the first time since 2003, there was not a single UK act in either of the top 10 singles or albums of 2024, according to figures published by the IFPI.

The lists were dominated by US acts, with representatives of Latin-American and Korean music making up the top 10s, but why was there no room for UK pop acts?

“The lists were dominated by US acts, with representatives of LatinAmerican and Korean music ”

The most surprising admission from these statistics is that of dance-pop superstar Charli xcx, who hails from Cambridge, England. After her 2024 album BRAT became somewhat of a cultural phenomenon, even she couldn’t catch the likes of Noah Kahan, Taylor Swift and Post Malone in the IFPI’s best-selling lists. However, outside of Charli, it is safe to say that it’s much more difficult to make a case for

any other UK artists rivalling the sales of the acts in these lists, and that could be a worry.

The UK may not boast anyone currently to rival the streaming success of Billie Eilish or Taylor Swift’s 2024 releases, but fear not, I believe more success is on the horizon for UK acts.

First of all, 2024 was a huge year for pop albums, but specifically, almost every major US pop artist dropped one last year, from Sabrina Carpenter to Ariana Grande to Beyonce. In comparison, Charli xcx and Dua Lipa were the only major pop acts to contribute from the UK, with the latter

album. On the other hand, major pop names such as Adele, Harry Styles, RAYE and The 1975 were all without major releases that would’ve likely driven their sales up towards the US competitors. As well as this, I believe the future is undoubtedly bright for UK pop, as there is plenty of young and upcoming artists that have the potential to explode into superstars at any given moment.

“The future is undoubtedly bright for UK pop...”

The start of 2025 has already seen the emergence of Croydon-born Lola Young as a well-known name. A whole host of other British names are producing fantastic pop music that needs to be recognised more. The Last Dinner Party, Rachel Chinouriri, L Devine, Holly Humberstone and many more are all waiting to be unearthed by mainstream audiences, not to mention indie and rock artists such as Sam Fender and Wunderhorse who are more than capable of gaining mass success in the coming years. Overall, I wouldn’t worry all too much about these figures, as there is plenty of fantastic UK pop music being created, we just need to wait for everyone else to catch up with listening to them.

The best festivals abroad to splash out on for a holiday and music festival in one

diverse music festivals. Spanning over a week in August, Sziget features an impressive line-up of international acts across genres, including pop, rock, indie, and EDM.

We present the best abroad music festivals to explore this summer.

For those who love to travel and enjoy live music, combining a dream holiday with a world-class music festival is the perfect way to experience a destination. From electronic beats to rock anthems, many global festivals offer a unique blend of top-tier performances and the chance to explore a new culture. Here’s a list of the best abroad festivals that provide not only incredible music but also a memorable vacation experience.

Tomorrowland, Belgium

One of the largest and most famous electronic dance music (EDM) festivals in the world, Tomorrowland in Boom, Belgium, is a mustvisit for music lovers. Held every July, this three-day festival attracts the best DJs from around the globe, creating an immersive experience with stunning stage designs, elaborate pyrotechnics, and unforgettable music.

While the festival itself is an epic celebration, Belgium’s charming cities like Brussels and Bruges offer a fantastic cultural escape, with cobblestone streets, historic landmarks, and delectable chocolates to explore when you're not dancing the night away.

Sziget Festival, Hungary

Held annually in Budapest, Sziget Festival is one of Europe’s largest and most

“Music festivals abroad offer the perfect opportunity to combine the thrill of live performances with an unforgettable vacation.”

The festival takes place on an island in the Danube River, offering a unique setting for the music lovers who flock to the city. When you’re not at the festival, Budapest is a great place to explore, with its stunning architecture, thermal baths, and delicious Hungarian cuisine, making it an ideal destination for both festival-lovers and tourists.

Rock in Rio, Brazil

Rock in Rio, held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, is one of the world’s biggest music festivals, featuring a diverse range of musical genres, from rock and pop to EDM and samba. Occurring every two years, Rock in Rio offers a unique chance to experience top-tier performances while exploring one of the world’s most beautiful cities.

After enjoying legendary acts, you can relax on the beaches of Copacabana, hike up to the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue, or experience Rio’s vibrant nightlife.

Mad Cool, Madrid Mad Cool is one of the most anticipated music festivals in Europe. Held annually in Madrid, Spain, this event brings

Flickr

together top international and emerging artists across various genres, from rock to electronic music.

With its impressive line-up, vibrant atmosphere, and stunning location, Mad Cool 2025 promises to deliver unforgettable performances, creating an unmissable experience for music lovers and festivalgoers alike.

“After enjoying legendary acts, you can relax on the beaches of Copacabana...”

Music festivals abroad offer the perfect opportunity to combine the thrill of live performances with an unforgettable vacation. Whether it’s the electronic beats of Tomorrowland, the cultural richness of Sziget Festival, or the electric energy of Mad Cool, these festivals provide both incredible music and the chance to explore new destinations. For those who want to dance, sing, and experience something truly extraordinary, these festivals are the ultimate way to spend your holiday.

Amala Parry - Campus Comment Sub-Editor

Noelia Fernández Pérez - Sports Sub-Editor

Image source:

Image source: Pexels

Image source: Wikimedia Commons, GoodFon

Image source: Pexels

Monday 24th March 2025

The post punk golden age: dissecting rock resurgence

Emma Monaghan

As the post punk revival continues to build momentum in the UK, we take a look back at the subgenre's gritty origins.

Post punk was birthed under the political unrest of the late 1970s Britain, and nurtured by a generation searching for artistic ambition under their inner misery. Its experimental nature serenaded the nation, but how did it resonate so deeply?

"Post punk emerged from the death of punk rock music."

Post punk emerged from the death of punk rock music. Its sense of anti-establishment was temporarily fitting and influential but didn’t pass the test of time. Post punk era legend Genesis P-Orridge described the appeal as "Punk is about saying 'Fuck you', post punk is about saying 'I’m fucked.'" The subgenre

grabbed the attention of Brits as it was intensely relatable in a time of mass unemployment and industrial decline; the average working Brit was highly susceptible to a loss of career, with unemployment at a high of 3.3 million in 1984. These artists created a sense of misery and pain that was intensely relatable in the context, proving Brits found it much easier to wallow in sorrow rather than rebel against the establishment.

"Post punk adopted elements of modernist art, literature and romanticism."

Post punk music enjoyed success from its more complex nature. Punk was often equipped with three chord progressions and limited substance, whereas post punk adopted elements of modernist art, literature and romanticism. It held musical variation, with synths, organs, strings, and lots of reverb. It introduced newfound deeply complex and dense lyricism. Artists cooked up plenty more food for thought in deeply multifaceted songs. The adoption of retro art in this music created the sense of yearning and nostalgia we all know and love in post punk music.

Post punk emerged with bands such as Joy

Division, Wire, The Fall, and Talking Heads, who gave us stripped-down, raw, yet hypnotic and dark sounds, such as Wire’s Pink Flag (1977), introducing angular guitar work to the genre. After the tragic death of Joy Division’s Ian Curtis in 1980, the early 80s saw an introduction of more electronic sounds to punk. In the formation of New Order assisted by the likes of the Cure and the Human League, synths were often heavily incorporated into tracks, assisting the distinctive hypnotic sound. The genre's experimental nature even lead to the development of genres such as shoegaze, new wave and goth.

punk revival’, with artists such as IDLES, Shame, Squid and recent BRIT-winners Fontaines D.C. under the spotlight as they adopt the iconic elements of the genre’s spoken word vocals and hypnotic, melancholy composition.

Post punk not only had Britain in the 1980s, but now in the modern day.

Napalm Death live at NUSU review: grindcore pioneers turn NUSU into a battleground

Katy Johnston

The fearsome Birmingham four-piece pulled no punches on a night of thrillingly highimpact metal.

Walking up to Luther's, I’d never seen such a mismatched group. Gone were the students of the daytime, in their stripy trousers and linen shirts, only to be replaced as dusk struck with a long and winding queue of veteran moshers and greasy young metalheads.

We opted to skip this tangle of fashion styles and wait it out in Luther’s. £1.79 pints felt a much safer option to kill two hours. Due to our friend’s unfortunate time management, the first support, BRAT from New Orleans, had been and gone before we could get down to the Venue. We only knew this because the floor was shaking and creaking beneath our feet as we sank pints. When we arrived downstairs with our whole group finally in tow, Full of Hell were just beginning. As we pushed through the double doors, I could already tell this was going to be a stacked evening. Carrying on with the American support acts, they were understandably my friend's favourite set of the night. The crowd was riled up with surfers already crashing down. The audience couldn’t decide if it wanted to be a hardcore pit or a push pit - I got both kicked in the head and shoved over in the same breath - but the energy was so strong it was hard to even care.

In what felt like minutes the straight edge rockers

had rattled through their greatest hits and we were left waiting for the third band of the night. It was barely half past 8 and the atmosphere was electric.

Crowbar started strong, every bit the look of an aging metal band. We retreated towards what we thought must be the end of their set for the bar, exhausted from carrying crowd surfers and grabbing fallen moshers. But the four-piece kept playing, and playing, and playing. They never lost energy or focus for a second... but we sadly did.

This was no fault of Crowbar - we realised we’d gotten so used to 15-minute hardcore sets with Newcastle’s own Conviction Records, that anything over 30 minutes and we became exhausted.

"I got both kicked in the head and shoved over in the same breath."

After a final pint before the main attraction caused us to once again miss the beginning of the set, we shoved back through the crowd and watched in awe. The supports had been so hard I thought I knew what we were getting ourselves in for but they somehow stepped it up even further. Napalm Death played a crazed, high impact setlist. They never lost the crowdstopping for breath and the occasional

political preach to the choir - before continuing with a perfect set from their 16-album-strong back catalogue.

"Napalm Death somehow stepped it up even further with a crazed, high-impact set."

The crowd was still brilliant, over three hours since the first band. The orientation of the Venue is a visibility problem at more conventional gigs but here it provided the perfect battleground for kicks punches and shoves. I earnt some gnarly bruises, and I returned home minus my necklace, seemingly ripped off in the chaos. It was a small price to pay for the chance to experience such an unforgettable night.

Here Comes the Sun: five songs for the sunny days

Feeling a rush of springtime joy? Here are five songs to help you embrace the season.

Multiple writers 'Think Too Much' by Hannah Jadagu I know we’re all tempted to blast ‘Lush Life’ by Zara Larsson when it’s sunny out, but I have something better! What I love most about sunny days is the slight peaceful laziness they make you feel. My pick for the best song for a sunny day is ‘Think Too Much’ by Hannah Jadagu. The song makes you feel like you are languidly sunbathing on a beach or in the park for a picnic, just basking in the sun and enjoying the hint of summer peeking through the clouds. It’s got that summer buzz but with a bit of calm to it. - Dhwani Masand 'Mariposa' by Peach Tree Rascals Whenever I hear this song I’m immediately transported to a field of flowers, running in slow motion, with rays of sunlight beaming down. This song feels like a good day out with friends, filled with giggles, spontaneity, and your soon-to-be new favorite candid photos. There’s just such a whimsical and bouncy feel to this song, and it feels like a little treat when it comes on. The cute chimes in the back are like a little pick me up that reminds you that ~ding~ today’s a good day! A satisfying saxophone solo closes out the tune, feeling like the sun is setting but in a way that you know you used the daylight the best you could. - Taylor Roth

"The song makes you feel like you're sunbathing on the beach."

'Sorted for E's & Wizz' by Pulp As the chilly, dark nights wane away and in comes the sun, it’s time to introduce a brand new set of songs into your regular mix. Regarding summer tunes, Pulp always know how to produce that feelgood vibe while hiding the most haunting lyrics. Amongst the depths of their discography is the brilliant ‘Sorted for E’s & Wizz’, a typical festival hit. With its driving drums and Jarvis Cocker’s unique voice, it is the perfect Britpop tune to soundtrack a British summer. From afternoons spent at the beach to those warm barbecue days, it is ideal to stick on and sing along to. - Rebecca Martin

'Intrigue in Tangiers' by the Chameleons ‘Intrigue in Tangiers’, the third track from The Chameleons’ brilliant What Does Anything Mean? Basically, is the perfect soundtrack for the tail-end of sunny days. As dusk falls on those days when "the skies are glass", a lovely evening awaits, but so does that quiet twinge of anxiety of trying to make the most of such rare, beautiful weather. Mark Burgess cries "I just have to make the evenings last / They’re always flashing past", his voice heavy with the melancholy of fleeting moments. The shifts between busy and calm instrumentation on this track draw out all these feelings, perfectly capturing the essence of a summer evening and the bittersweet feeling we all know.

- Jack Stephenson

'Keep It Together' by Pip Blom

This stellar track from Dutch indie band Pip Blom is arguably the epitome of sunny days. As the weather reaches double digits and we are reminded that blue skies exist after all, this song gets me back into the sunny groove, nudging me to feel like I can leave the house again without immediately wanting to go back inside. This breezy summer song perfectly soundtracks the feeling of basking in Newcastle's apricity as the sun gets brighter and the days get longer. - Olivia Fee

Image credit: Jelena Jakovljevic

Image source: Wikimedia Commons

Queer representation on the small screen

Kate Kennedy

One of our writers explores Queer representation in some TV's biggest shows.

In recent years, we have seen an increase in the quality and quantity of queer representation on the small screen. There are now shows focused on queer characters rather than them being reduced to extras and thankfully, the days of Glee’s Let’s Have A Kiki/Turkey Lurkey Time mashup are gone.

One of the best British cases of queer representation is Jack from Big Boys (2022-2025).

Big Boys is written by Jack Rooke and is a semiautobiographical comedy based on Rooke’s university experience. Set in 2014/15, the show follows Jack’s time at university and how he navigates his queer experience, we see Jack experience many of his firsts, his first gay club, first sexual experience and his coming out to his family. I would say that Big Boys is an accurate representation of the queer uni experience- suddenly having direct access to a queer community and freedom of expression. We also see a contrast between Jack and Yemi, Jack being new to discovering his sexuality while Yemi is very confident and comfortable. Yemi acts as an encouraging force to push Jack to pursue new experiences which is very representative of the

queer uni experience as everyone is at a different stage and queer friends are crucial in helping you to discover yourself.

When it comes to transgender representation, Laverne Cox must be mentioned. Cox is most well known for her role as Sophia Burset in Netflix’s Orange Is the New Black (2013-2019), which takes place in a women’s prison where Sophia must fight for her hormones due to budget cuts. The show focuses Sophia’s storyline on her complicated relationship with her son and wife. The relationship between Sophia and her wife (Crystal) is nuanced as she is supportive however, she is frustrated by the discrimination from her community that her support generates. Cox was the first transgender actress to be nominated for an Emmy, and the first transgender woman to win a Daytime Emmy Award for Laverne Cox Presents: The T Word. Laverne Cox was also the first transgender person to be on the cover of Time

magazine in 2014 in which she spoke about the fight for trans civil rights.

Of course, I couldn’t talk about queer representation without talking about Santana Lopez. Santana was played by the late Naya Rivera throughout Glee’s six seasons, she was proud, outspoken and a “straight-up bitch” who was in love with her best friend Brittany (played by Heather Morris). As the show progressed, as Santana evolved from an extra to a member of the main cast, we saw her story evolve too. From holding hands with Brittany under a napkin, to being outed to the entire school via Finn’s outburst, to her having a relationship with Demi Lovato’s character Dani and finally to marrying Brittany in 2015. Santana has been a pillar of my queer representation as well as providing queer and Latina rep for members of both communities.

Mother knows best!

Multiple Writers

Mother’s Day is fast approaching, so let’s celebrate all those wonderful mums on telly!

Mother's Day is right around the corner, but our TV screens showcase some incredible Mothers and Mother figures everyday. Here is a list of just a few women who stand out on the small screen for the way they care for those around them and fulfil their motherly roles.

Aarya Shenoy:

Sarah Nelson, Heartstopper

Colman’s character of Sarah Nelson left a pretty impressive impact on people, for understanding and loving her son without making a big fuss about his journey in discovering his sexuality. She’s instinctive and warm, and it’s unfortunate she wasn’t able to be part of series three.

Nalini Vishvakumar, Never Have I Ever

This one is close to my heart, as Nalini Vishvakumar is the typical Indian mother. She only wants the best for her daughter, and portrays the struggles of an immigrant family well, whilst also being strong and supportive after the death of her husband. Nalini’s one liners are the funniest, and she’s one of the best mother figures out there.

Claire Dunphy and Gloria Delgado-Pritchett, Modern Family

Notably one of the most popular shows, Modern Family showcases a big family unit. Claire Dunphy is warm and funny with not only her immediate family but her extended ones too, especially to Lily as she grows up. Gloria is wonderfully involved with her sons whilst navigating the blend between American culture and her own. She's plays a great mum but an even

better America's Got Talent judge!

Joyce Byers, Stranger Things

Now, if there was a mother that would go to hell and back (literally) for her kid, it’s Joyce Byers. She will stop at nothing and no one to find Will, and continues making decisions throughout the seasons that put her kids first, even above herself.

Lorelai Gilmore, Gilmore Girls

This one is a little controversial to me, but Lorelai Gilmore is a pretty great mum to Rory, even when she didn’t deserve it. Moving out at 16, she built a life for the both of them from the ground up, and raised her daughter with the love and support that she felt she never received.

A couple of other mentions include Jessica Huang from Fresh off the Boat, Fiona Gallagher and a sistermother figure on Shameless, and Stef and Lena Adams-Fosters from the early 2000’s show The Fosters. All of these actors portray the trials and tribulations of motherhood, whilst also living their own lives to the fullest.

Cory Gourley:

Lynda Bellingham, The OXO Adverts

She was the nations favourite mum during the 1980's and 1990's. The late, great, Lynda Bellingham was the face of comfort as she starred front and centre of the OXO Adverts during a time where they were just as big as many of the shows on the box. She could often be seen seductively pouring gravy over a roast dinner for her husband or making bangers and mash for her doting children and that's why

she was adored. A staple of British pop culture. "Remember Preston?".

Angie Watts , EastEnders

"Hello, Darling". The iconic first Lady of Soap and an amazing adoptive mother to Sharon. Although she battled the booze and a wayward husband she adored her daughter. The fabulous Anita Dobson even made a surprise cameo appearance during the show's 40th anniversary when our Shazza was lying on her deathbed. A

The Simpsons

It is the show that goes on forever but the one thing that has stayed at the heart of the show is the character of Marge. Our yellow queen takes care of three wonderful (ish) kids and if we are being honest, Mr. Homer Simpson is most definetly her fourth. Give this woman a medal, no questions asked! So, there we have it from EastEnders to The Simpsons to Heartstopper and Gilmore Girls - TV shows, both old and new - we have covered some of the best TV mother's and mother figures that we have ever

Television letdowns

Maddy Kendall

One of our writers tells us about the TV shows that left them with a sour taste!

There is nothing more disappointing than dedicating what seems like your whole life to getting through a TV show, only for the ending to be a complete and utter flop. This article tells you exactly what shows to avoid.

The Sympathizer

Based on the novel by Viet Thahn Nguyen starring Robert Downey Jr, The Sympathizer had all the potential of an award winning show yet it falls flat. Turns out cramming a 384 book into seven episodes creates a rushed and hard to follow series which falls more gimmickyeven with the incredible cast. Robert Downey Jr’s multiple characters feel like they are missing something but you do have to give credit to the incredible costuming and makeup.

The Walking Dead, Season 7

In my opinion, it’s impossible to talk about letdowns in series without discussing thecontroversial season of The Walking Dead. Season 7 gets rid of the charm of early seasonsby replacing the morally gray situations and replacing it with over-the-top violence and shock-value deaths. Moreover, the pacing itself is slow and tedious and forces characters to make, frankly, dumb decisions.

The Idol

Sam Levison, of euphoria fame, described the show as the “sleaziest love story in Hollywood” which can only make you think: was it intentionally grotesque? The Idol is a show with potential but is squashed by scenes where you don’t know whether to laugh or vomit. The acting is subpar at best and embarrassing at worst with the general consensus being the show is just torture porn. Nethertheless, it did provide some interesting discourse on what should be allowed on TV.

Game of Thrones, Season 8

With a decade-long build up the finale to the iconic show left fans feeling disappointed and empty due to its defamation of its characters and its rushed pacing. Part of the charm of theearly seasons of Game of Thrones was its slow burn-progression, the final season butchers this and rushes its character from point A to B. This cramming of too much plot in too little time leads to character inconsistencies and illogical choices.

The Bear, Season 3

Definitely the best on this list, season 3 of Hulu’s The Bear is meandering and aimless with a heavy focus on flashbacks and building on characters, which is interesting, but leaves a season in which not much progresses. It removed the quick, aggressive energy seen in the first two seasons and replaced it with stunt-casting and a slower, more somber feel.

Image credit: IMDb

Image credit: IMDb and PICRYL

Top telly to watch this spring

Scarlet Davies - Campus Comment Sub-Editor

Our Campus Comment Sub-Editor gives us her take on the Top TV to watch this spring.

There is TV for all the seasons from Spooky Spectacular's to those shows that bring us Christmas Cheer. However, something that doesn't get spoken about quite as much is TV that eases you into Spring. From New Girl Good Place this article has you covered.

1. Crashing

This is my go-to for Spring TV, particularly as a student. The Comedy series revolves around six twenty-somethings who live in a disused hospital for cheaper rent. They navigate personal relationships and the challenges of adulthood, and the characters are so likeable and sure of themselves that it almost convinces you that it won’t be so bad to be young and bankrupt once you graduate university.

Written and starring national icon Phoebe Waller-Bridge, she produced this series when she was less well-known and could afford to cast Jonathan Bailey before he became big in Bridgerton. It has similar vibes to but is slightly less emotionally scarring and

navigates a lighter, coming-of-age storyline. It’s easy-watching and full of community and hope for the future; a perfect watch for the sunnier seasons.

2. New Girl

This is a classic, and a popular watch for Spring. Originally aired from 2011-2018, the television show follows Jess Day, a school teacher who moves in with three men she’s never met after a breakup.

The show delves into their friendships, romances and mishaps, and- with 7 seasons- is a great show to binge while waiting for the summer. It has that classic 2000s atmosphere with lovable characters you’ll get attached to, and the loft the four characters live in will no doubt have you straight on Zillow to look at interior-design for future homes. It’s a good show if you have a short attention span; the show has a sitcom feel that’s easy to follow if you feel like skipping a few episodes, or need something on in the background while you’re studying for the upcoming exams.

The White Lotus

While still comedic, The White Lotus is a darker, mystery-based show which focuses on a different White Lotus luxury resort each season. Set in Hawaii, Sicily and Thailand respectively,

North Vs. South

England is the heart of raw, relatable television.

you can almost trick yourself that you’re not stuck inside because of April Showers for the fifth time this week. While it maintains a summery backdrop, the focus on class divide and cutting social commentary make for a more diverting plot than simply relying on the good weather to entice you to watch.

And if you don’t like the cast on the first series- don’t worry! Each season focuses on a different set of characters, so it never gets boring. Aside from Jennifer Coolidge, who somehow seems to pop up at least once in every season, it’s fresh and exciting each time it airs. If you’re looking for something more complex than a sitcom to get lost in, this may be the one for you.

4. Queenie

Set slightly closer to home, Queenie is a tv show based off the bestselling book with the same name (written by Candice CartieWilliams) and focuses on a young Black woman of Jamaican descent living in London. She struggles with living amongst two cultures, and begins to navigate family expectations and personal challenges in the heart of the capital.

This miniseries has been given praise for its authentic portrayal of contemporary issues and its engaging

storytelling, but also- like the book- has several moments of hilarity and humour, which gives the viewer a break from the more serious topics which are focused on. If you liked I May Destroy Everything I Know About Love, look no further; this is the perfect show to pretend you live in London without actually paying the extortionate prices of rent or having to get the Underground to work.

The Good Place

And finally, back to lighthearted sitcoms: everyone’s favourite watches in the warmer months. The Good Place has become extremely popular in the past few years, and with good reason: it focuses on a group of young people who navigate the afterlife together, and has a unique perspective on philosophy and what happens after we die. While this might initially appear slightly morbid, the show is anything but.

With A-Listers such as Kristen Bell, William Jackson Harper and Jameela Jamil, the show is a playful, breezy watch whilst also tackling quite serious topics. With Easter quickly approaching, there’s nothing more fitting than talking about death and what separates good from evil. Easter eggs and The Good Place sounds like a perfect combination to take a break from exam revision. Anything to avoid doing uni work,

Does the North/South divide extend to TV too?

As someone who grew up in the south and is now living in the north, it’s so interesting to see the different kind of shows that these opposite ends of the country produce and what their contribution to our cultures truly mean. Both regions have made their mark on the small screen, but the question remains: who does telly better?

The South's influence on TV is undeniable, with many of the UK's biggest shows and productions emerging from the glossy studios of major broadcasting networks like the BBC, ITV, and Channel 4 – all conveniently located in London. Usually, the South tends to produce a lot of high-budget, polished TV with shows like Downton Abbey, The Crown, prime examples of productions have earned global acclaim. The region has a strong reputation for historical dramas, period pieces, and adaptations of classic literature, often thanks to its access to resources and big-name actors.

London’s proximity to the film industry has also made the capital a hub for big-budget TV dramas with cinematic quality. From Doctor Who London’s cosmopolitan, fast-paced vibe permeates many shows, often exploring complex narratives with slick, glossy presentation.

The South’s connection to international markets also means its productions are more likely to have global appeal, as seen with hits like The Apprentice and Factor.

But, while the South might dominate the high-budget productions, the North of

But, while the South might dominate the highbudget productions, the North of England is the heart of raw, relatable television. The North’s strength lies in its ability to create gritty, real dramas that speak to the lives of everyday people. Shows like Coronation Street, Emmerdale, and Hollyoaks have been staples of British television for decades, offering compelling storylines rooted in everyday working-class life.

Beyond soaps, Northern dramas, like Happy Valley, deliver compelling narratives full of emotional storytelling and complex characters. They tackle social issues head-on, offering an unflinching look at the real world and speaking to communities that often feel overlooked in mainstream media.

At the end of the day, both the North and the South have made invaluable contributions to the UK's television industry. So, whether you’re a fan of high-end drama or down-to-earth realism, there’s no doubt that British television is richer for the contrast between these two iconic regions. Perhaps the real answer to the question is: it’s not about who does telly better—it’s about what kind of telly you prefer.

Actor spotlight

Ruby Tinkler

We shine the light on Jodie Whittaker in our special Northern edition of Actor Spotlight...

Born in Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, Jodie Whittaker is best known for her role as the Thirteenth Doctor, but her catalogue includes a wide variety of roles that have earned her nominations for several major TV and film awards. Although she is yet to win, it can’t be long before there is a BAFTA with her name on it! These are a few highlights from her career...

Broadchurch: In the ITV drama which ran for three series between 2013 and 2017, Whittaker plays the role of Beth Latimer, a grieving mother whose 11-year-old son, Danny, has been murdered. The cleverly constructed story follows the search for Danny’s killer, led by detectives played by David Tennant and Olivia Colman, and the toll his murder takes on their small Cornish town, where everyone begins to suspect each other. Whittaker’s performance is at times heartbreaking, as Beth navigates the effect that her grief has on all of her relationships, including those with her husband, daughter and friends.

Doctor Who: In 2017, Whittaker became the first female Doctor Who, taking over the role from Peter Capaldi. I am not exactly a die-

hard Doctor Who fan, but I was intrigued by how she would interpret the role and was pleasantly surprised. The storyline of each episode follows a different historical event, such as witch hunts and the partition of India, in which Whittaker’s Doctor and her friends need to ensure things go exactly as Whittaker took a warm, energetic, and compassionate approach to the classic role, portraying a woman filled with hope even in the most adverse situations. Beyond making her character likeable and entertaining, these choices recognise Whittaker’s achievement in becoming the first female Doctor and its symbolism for women in the creative industries.

In Whittaker’s most recent TV appearance, she plays Susan McIntyre in the new Netflix drama telling the true story of a group of mothers from Corby whose children were born with birth defects as a result of toxic chemicals left over from an old steel works. Though she again plays a mother fighting for justice for her child, Whittaker’s performance as Susan shows her range, this time portraying a much more outspoken and irreverent character. The story is moving, as the mothers initially blame themselves for their children’s disabilities. Though what is most striking is the hope that the community is able to give each other; the resilience of the Corby mothers in their fight for justice is inspiring.

Ella Saint

Image credit: IMDb & Pixabay

Image credit: IMDb

Image credit: IMDb

Image credit: IMDb

Why are less people reading poetry?

An acrostic on poetry's declining readership

Poetry has been a pillar of culture and expression for centuries. Whether it be: confessional, romantic or speculative, poetry comes in countless forms, giving a voice to just about anyone. The first examples of English poetry date back to (supposedly) the 7th century. So, after all these years of lasting influence, why is interest in poetry declining?

Over the last two or three decades we have seen a rapid and undeniable surge of technological integration into the average lifestyle. The turn of the new millennium brought with it anxieties over robot invasions and identity theft. But now in the year 2025 us normal folk have front row access to new technonolgy - surveillance and streaming. But most profoundly: artificial Intelligence, which is exactly what it says on the tin - artificial.

Erasing the humanity of crafting literature and poetry may certainly explain the decline in quality, but how does this effect the decreasing levels of readership? Perhaps, just like reality TV and high school sports, an oversaturated market is to blame. The heaps of mediocre poetry crafted or edited by AI is giving the real deal a bad reputation. In an age where attention spans are declining, most online readers aren't sticking around to find the real good stuff. Instead the low hanging content pushed out by machine learning is leaving a stain on the impression of poetry for the next generations of readers.

That being said, us real human poets still exist, so how come people aren't reading our stuff? It’s an unfortunate reality to face, but the decline in print media has limited publication opportunities for up-and-coming writers dramatically. Even established names are decreasingly found in newspapers and magazines. Thus, people are reading less poetry nowadays because it seems there's nowhere to read it.

Reading poetry, as we’ve established, is facing a hapless decline. But who’s to say that people aren't getting their fix other ways. Poetry is all around us. The kids crafting playlists instead of doing their coursework - there's poetry in the lyrics they’re singing along to. Or, the lovers who sent cards on St Valentines Day- they're unknowingly authors of sonnets or odes.

Yes, sometimes it might seem pretentious or of fleeting importance, but poetry is so much more than just words upon a page. It’s up us readers now to give the voices around us an audience. A life without poetry is no life at all. Go to the library, go to your computer, go read through your childhood diaries- poetry is everywhere for those willing to see it!

Theatre Royal brings King Arthur back to the round table

Taylor Roth

For those of us that got a little bit too into 'Merthur' in 2010...

Ending out its run at the Theatre Royal, King Arthur, created by theatre company Le Navet Bete, is a three-man "legendary” comedy following three squires roped into putting on a show based on tales of King Arthur. With

production, this show promises goofy antics, physical humor, and chaotic character swapping for anyone looking for a few giggly, unserious hours.

The Theatre Royal is guaranteed to rally excitement for live theatre with its welcoming lobby, stunning ceilings, and spacious seating. I had yet to visit until this showing, and I was happily surprised. My only complaint was the lack of playbills handed out upon entering, but that could be specific to this show.

“The actors never shied away from giving it their all”

Entering the theatre, attendees are met with a fun castle set with several levels that the actors could perform on. This proved useful throughout the show as the actors had to quickly move in and out to cover several characters. This production aimed to keep the audience immersed in their medieval end, as they broke the fourth wall and interacted with attendees several times. From throwing fake vegetables on stage to incorporating Break Free, this production continued to fight for the

Generation Z- ombie:

viewers' attention. Furthermore, the actors never shied away from giving it their all, fully committed to their characters and every joke and bit of physical comedy, as expected in a slapstick.

“The crowd were in fits of giggles”

While this show’s humour was not my cup of tea and ran a bit long, I’m always grateful to see any form of live theatre. Also, fear not, my friends and the crowd were in fits of giggles. I definitely appreciated the actors' continuous commitment, even when mistakes occurred and improvisation came into play. Ideally, a show goes as written, but moments like these often can make for new silly moments which can work especially well in a comedy. This reminds me of the magic that separates live theatre from any other medium: every performance will be different and new takeaways can occur each time.

King Arthur is no longer playing at the Theatre Royal, however Le Navet Bete is continuing to play this show, along with their original show Treasure Island, throughout the UK. Check out Lenavetbete.com for further information on their upcoming shows.

is the culture

industry exploiting unpaid workers?

Christine Soloch

Sorry kids, we're having exposure for dinner again...

Unpaid internships and work are not uncommon in the culture sector. However, it’s starting to reach a point where it may be becoming exploitative, or even illegal...

The arts rely heavily on volunteers and unpaid interns, and any arts or humanities student will probably be able to confirm how difficult it can be to find paid work and actually gain a footing in the creative and cultural industry. This is especially true for young people from working-class backgrounds.

“A third of major creative leaders were privately educated”

A recent survey by The Guardian has revealed that about a third of major creative leaders were privately educated. Furthermore, a notable percentage of them attended Oxford or Cambridge. Prominent figures like Filmmaker Shane Meadows,  Peaky Blinders Creator Steven Knight and Turner Prize Winner Jesse Darling have spoken up about this issue, describing it as a serious crisis in the sector

Although internships with fixed hours and responsibilities are often legally required to offer payment, the arts industries have usually been able to dodge such regulations without repercussions. In turn, this fosters a work culture where young creatives feel compelled to accept unpaid roles for the benefit of experience despite severe financial burdens.

Many aspiring artists, performers, and writersincluding myself - have found themselves taking on unpaid positions and responsibilities in the hopes that one will eventually be a gateway to paid and

acknowledged work. This creates a vicious cycle where those with a more stable financial backing can afford working for free, while working-class talents struggle to break in.

“Young creatives are being exploited for their creativity”

It’s saddening that young creatives are being exploited for their curiosity, willingness to learn, and naivety in thxe job market. Promises of 'exposure' or valuable connections are all well and good, but they shouldn’t be used to compensate for hard work and fair pay. Employers may frame these jobs as a privilege, an exclusive opportunity to work in a field many feel so passionate about.

“Forcing a lot of talented individuals to give up”

However, without any financial support, young talents ultimately find they cannot sustain themselves in the long term to make their mark on the industry. By doing so, the culture sector is not only forcing a lot of talented individuals to give up their dreams, but it also risks losing valuable and diverse voices, manipulating its very own future.

Charley Dobson

credits: IMDB, Wikimedia Commons

Image credits: N. C. Wyeth, Wikimedia Commons

Image credits: SashaSan, Pixabay

An update from your station managers

Alicia McEvoy - NUTV Station Manager

Hi everyone! Once again, NUTV have had a successful couple of weeks. It’s been a lot less chaos for us, and we’re all still so proud of the success we had with our streaming for the elections. We appreciate everyone that tuned in to see what we could do, to allow more people to attend such important events to our student lives. We streamed the student council and AGM, which is now available for you to catch up on through our youtube. it was nice to have a change in scenary, and while we had a tech issue - i’m so happy that it didn’t come across through the stream. We know the technology well enough that we could handle and resolve it quickly (even if it did take a bit of help from others).

Behind the scenes with the National Student TV Association (NaSTA), it’s all extremely exciting. They have announced that the shortlists for the awards will be revealed this weekend, so we’re cautiously optimistic about the prospects of being on there. But, what’s really important, is that we are all so proud of the content that we get to put out. From the stream success, and everything that we’ve been secrretly planning behind the scenes. We won’t be stopping any time soon! There are a few more livestreams that we get to do this year, and some more filming that isn’t live - so then when you’re missing NUTV, you’ve got some light entertainment to keep you going. If you ever want to find out more about what we do as a station, drop the groupchat a message on the whatsapp or a DM on instagram!

Erin Reid - NSR Station Manager

It's been another really successful week at NSR! We've seen so many amazing shows returning and so many new shows starting up - it's always so wonderful seeing everyone get stuck in.

You can listen to our shows on NSR by following the link in our bio, @thisisnsr, and make sure to keep up with all our social media updates for any upcoming opportunities we may have. It is also not too late to apply for a show, which you can do by contacting the Instagram account. Keep an eye out as we'll be advertising executive committee roles for next year in the coming months.

We are underway with preparations for the Media Awards and we have received so many nominations. Please remember nominations close at midnight on Monday 24th, so if you haven't already, please make sure to nominate yourselves or your friends as soon as possible so you don't miss out. Even if you're doubting yourself - go for it! It'll be a great night.

As well as making our preparations for the Media Awards, we're making preparations for SRACon! NSR are taking seven members to the awards and conference and we are so excited to see if we can get lucky with awards... But regardless, are so excited for the opportunity.

A reminder that although term is coming to a close, you can still continue your shows through Easter if you're staying in Newcastle. Make the most of it before the academic year is up!

Gaming

Newcastle's gaming market: a rundown

Adam Lovegrove - Head of Culture

Our experience of Newcastle's gaming market.. and what we bought!

On Sunday 2nd March, I attended Newcastle’s Gaming Market alongside our gaming subeditor Amy and two of our writers, Danny and Keyon. The Courier had been invited by Replay Events to cover the day, and so the four of us hopped on the Metro to Gateshead Stadium and stepped inside to check out all there was to see.

The venue was set up with stalls all around the border of the room, as well as smaller circles of sellers in the centre that meant there was always a shop to check out on either side of you. Together these stalls provided you with almost every kind of gaming-related merchandise and

memorabilia you could imagine, from posters and 3D-printed door signs to custom-made coasters and LEGO figures.

Even for the stands we didn’t purchase anything from, checking out all the venue had to offer made for such a fun time. We spent a good two hours browsing the market, and got a little bit of entertainment out of everything we saw. One of my favourite parts of the experience was sifting through the large collections of old games many of the stalls sold, feeling particularly nostalgic as I looked at the PS2 and Wii games from my childhood.

The event had such a welcoming and friendly atmosphere, and it was great to interact with so many fellow video game fans. We chatted casually to both the attendees and the sellers, bonding over our mutual love for games and the things that each stall sold. It can feel hard at university to find friends who share the same interests as you, but events like these offer the perfect way to bring the gaming community in the North East together.

Thank you so much to Replay Events for the invite! The team and I had so much fun and can’t wait for the market

The gaming market hosted an impressive variation of different stalls. It was refreshing to see so many different vendors with original and unique products being sold. Here's a list of what we bought:

Firstly, we each bought a coaster from Mojoe Ink with a 4 for £10 deal, three with a Pokémon game design, and one replicating a 'lucky block' from Mario. They are the cutest addition to our coffee table and have sparked up fun conversations at pre drinks.

Arguably the most impressive vendor to us was Retro Dojo. Admittedly, we almost missed this one, but noticed it on our way out - and we were so glad we did. This stall had a plethora of different, hand-customised lego figures on display and I think we must've spent a good 15 minutes just gawking over how much detail and effort had put into these little

A day in the life: video game edition

Emma Stephenson - Relationships Sub-Editor

One of our sub-editors takes us through a day in their life...

The term “Quantified self”, developed by Gary Wolf and Kevin Kelly, describes using apps to measure and collect data from our daily lives such as health, productivity or even language learning. Apps like Headspace, Duolingo and Forest are all structured to encourage us towards positive and healthy activities that might otherwise be difficult to motivate ourselves for. Personally, I find these apps really engaging because they turn boring tasks into a fun and interesting game. Productivity is something that I struggle with, especially when I’m drowning in tasks to do. So, to avoid getting overwhelmed and anxious, sometimes I decide to make a game out of my day. Here’s a gamified Tuesday in my life.

I decided that if I get 100 points, I could go to the pub and see my friends.

I woke up at 7:30am and decided to already give myself 10 points for being up bright and early. Then, I made breakfast and went to my first lecture at 9am giving me another 5 points (=15pts.)

and sat down and doomscrolled for half an hour (-5pts.) but it was okay as I had the rest of the day to bring my points up (=10pts.)

For the next two hours, I locked in and worked on editing my section of the newspaper for The Courier, gaining 20 points, which I was very happy with (=30pts.)

It was time for lunch so I went to the Co-op for a meal deal, which unfortunately meant I lost another 5 points because wasn’t organised enough to prepare my own lunch (=25pts.)

By 1pm, I wasn’t even close to my goal which meant I really had to put in some more work. For the next hour, I turned my phone off and worked on researching and sourcing contacts for an assignment giving me 15 more points (=40pts.)

In the next hour, I turned my phone back on and did a reading for the week ahead but only gained 5 points because admittedly, I did get a little distracted (=45pts.)

At 3pm, I went to my two hour seminar and proudly gained 20 points for making progress on my project and contributing to the class discussion (=65pts.)

Afterwards, I went home and tidied my room (+5pts), as well doing a load of washing which I hate doing (bonus 5pts.). Then, I decided to make a classic spaghetti Bolognese and gave myself 10 points to celebrate the victory of a home-cooked meal (=85pts.)

Finally, I did another hour of work from home, gaining another 15 points, and called it a night. By the end of the day, I scored 100 points and treated myself to a pint at the pub, then came home and

guys. They were only £3 each, so it felt wrong to leave without buying any. We brought home Super Sonic, Venom, and Darth Malgus.

When we found Bills PCs stand with an insane amount of vintage Sonic merchandise, we were instantly sold. After a while of debating, Adam settled on some retro Sonic playing cards for £4. Each suit had a different character on (Sonic, Tails, Knuckles, and Amy), with Metal Sonic being the Joker cards.

It's not a gaming market if there isn't a stall with a mountain of plushies - and Bad FX Games had the cutest. As a loyal Yoshi main, no matter the game I'm playing, I had to take him home with me for a reasonable £12. Adam also bought a Pikachu disguised in a Garchomp onesie for £12 too.

From the moment Keyon walked into the gaming market, he decided he would buy a Waluigi cap if he found one, and thankfully he did for £6, also from Bad FX Games!

Celebrating Mother's Day with video games

Abdullah Habeb

Appreciating the powerful women in video games...

Mothers in video games don’t always tend to get the spotlight, but when they do, they leave a serious impact. Whether they’re battling gods, or surviving a zombie apocalypse, these motherly figures prove that being a mum is about way more than just biology, it’s about love, sacrifice, and sometimes, tough choices.

With all that set, lets dive into two iconic motherly figures in gaming.

Freya (God of War Series)

I think everyone agrees that if there’s one video game mum who desperately needs a break, it’s Freya. She starts off in God of War (2018) as a kind-hearted witch, guiding Kratos and Atreus on their journey. But beneath her warmth lies a devastating story, one that makes her one of the most tragic mothers in gaming.

Freya’s son, Baldur, was cursed with immunity, but not by an enemy. She did it to him. Believing she was protecting him, she cast a spell that made him immune to pain, never realising she was also stripping away his ability to feel anything at all. Instead of keeping him safe, she created a living nightmare for him.

Baldur grows to resent her, until he tries to kill her with his own hands. And yet, even as she is being strangled, Freya

refuses to fight back. When Kratos steps in, she even defends Baldur, proving that her love for him is absolute, even in the face of death.

Freya’s story is a powerful reminder that even the best mothers can make devastating mistakes, but their love remains, no matter the consequences.

Clementine (The Walking Dead Telltale Series) Clementine isn’t just a motherly figure; she had to become a mum while she was still a child herself. As a child, she found herself responsible for AJ, a baby born into a world where one small mistake could mean death. Unlike most mums, Clem had no guidance, no support system, no safety net. She had to figure everything out alone, raising AJ in a world where kindness could get you killed. She taught him how to survive, how to fight, and most importantly, how to hold on to his humanity.

By The Walking Dead: The Final Season, AJ isn’t just a kid following her lead; he’s a child shaped by her choices. Every lesson she teaches him, whether it’s when to show mercy or when to pull the trigger, defines the kind of person he will become.

We should all appreciate Clem for being such an amazing mother to AJ, especially in a tough situation like hers. She is proof that motherhood is not about age, but about having the resilience and drive to take large

At the end of the day, the most legendary mothers aren’t in video games, they’re the ones in our real lives. Please take a moment this Mother’s Day to appreciate your mums and spoil them as much as you can to show them how much you appreciate them!

Image Sources: Pixabay (MariPlusi, MarCuesBo)

Amy Mescus - Gaming Sub-Editor

Image Credits: Adam Lovegrove, Daniel Atkinson, Keyon Snoek, Amy Mescus

Spring cleaning your Steam library: a guide

Everyone knows the dread of trying to find a new game to play, even with tons of untouched experiences placed in their Steam library. But which games have tricked many people into downloading them, yet remain unplayed?

In 2020, Warner Brothers announced Gotham Knights. This game would be a spiritual successor to the hit Arkham series of games, but set in a separate universe following crucial members of the bat family. This started some excitement from fans as they also found out that the game would feature co-op features in which players can join their friends on missions as either Nightwing, BatGirl, Red Hood, or Robin. However, as the game's release date was repeatedly delayed and more details about its live service, slow combat, abysmal graphics, and questionable character designs emerged, fan engagement plummeted. Steam sales reached 720,500 copies; however, the game only averaged 246.6 active players over the past 30 days. The repetitive gameplay and confusing combat, leaving it to collect dust in my Steam library, met with mediocre reviews, and as someone who is a huge DC fan, I was rather disappointed and bored with the game.

The success of the TV show Arcane prompted many, myself included, to download League of Legends and play the featured

characters. This free-to-play game has a huge competitive scene and is an iconic game, giving me the impression that it would serve some fun. However, it is really difficult to get into/invested in due to the fact that it is an online competitive game with limited story placed within the game. Also, because of the somewhat complicated gameplay paired with players who have grinded out over many years, it makes it unfulfilling/impossible to get into a groove, leaving it to just stay downloaded to my computer with no interest in going back.

Finally, one of the biggest disappointments I've experienced in recent memory was the release of Overwatch 2. When this free-to-play sequel was announced, I was very excited as I thought it would reignite the fandom and it did for the first few months… Blizzard promised new gameplay mechanics, a bunch more characters and new move sets for pre-existing characters, yet new characters feel somewhat uninspired and half-baked, whilst balancing heroes still seems to be a challenge for the developers. In addition, they stated that the game would no longer include new story mode campaign missions. This made Overwatch 2 not a new fun experience, much like Overwatch’s original release, but a pathetic attempt at Blizzard trying to get more money from microtransactions and a competitive scene more unfair and unbalanced than the original, with its final nail in the coffin being the release of Marvel Rivals

Memory Card: Poptropica

Tiahna Fox

Who needs school when you have Poptropica?

Imagine this – you’re in year three, it’s the end of the day, and your last lesson is in the computer room. Your teacher has asked you to use cool math games to practise multiplication, but instead you stumble upon Poptropica, and you manage to convince them its educational.

Made by Jeff Kinney, the author of Diary of a Wimpy Kid Poptropica is an adventurous game where you journey through problem solving quests in different worlds, and for everyone you solve, you earn credits to spend customising your outfits.

The immersive worlds let you escape into the deep ocean hiding the ancient city of Atlantis, solve puzzles along side Hercules and Athena on Mythology Island, shrink to the size of an ant to help a scientist save their invention, and compete in a survivor-like reality TV show to win the grand prize. Each island is a selfcontained story book with interactive gameplay trapping you inside the worlds.

It was simple but challenging, and solving every game – whether on your own, with the help of friends or walkthroughs – offered an incredible sense of accomplishment and mementos to add to your collection. Honestly, I probably learned more problem-solving skills from Poptropica school.

Sub-editors:

Gaming

Sims expansion packs that are a must-have!

Charlotte Thomas

If you’re a seasoned Simmer or beginner of the game it can be daunting to know which packs are best for you. There is so much choice for expansion packs for the Sims 4 nowadays, and being just under £35 each it is hard to decide which ones to purchase. With some of my recommendations, I’ll help you spend your simoleons wisely!

There are currently 16 expansion packs available to purchase on the EA website for £34.99 each. Which ones you decide to buy is entirely dependent on your personal gameplay style and stories you want to create! Here are a variety of packs I would say are worth the price tag and provide interesting new game mechanics for your worlds…

Growing Together

With an emphasis on family, relationships and screaming infants this pack is perfect for someone who loves playing legacy challenges! The pack is set in a new world, San Sequoia and has gameplay mechanics such as a chemistry system for sims, family dynamics, milestones and a midlife crisis to name a few. All together these work effectively to add more realism and chaos to your story!

Cottage Living

Based loosely on the English countryside, this sims pack is set in the world of Hanford-on-Bagley. Embrace country living by raising farm

animals, visiting the village and town fairs. If you’re a keen builder, the build items for this pack are one of the most aesthetically pleasing for a cottage-core style! There is plenty of replay-able content for this pack, and much to explore in the world.

Cats and Dogs

If you love animals then this is the pack for you! One of the highest rated packs for the Sims 4, and rightly so! You can do so much interactive gameplay with the animals, alongside the new Veterinary career to help stray or sick animals. Overall, the customisation of animal breed and design adds even more life to the Sims. Also Brindelton Bay is my favourite world to build in!

Some last mentions and recommendations which are still very good packs include: Discover University, City Living and Get Together. A side note! The new expansion pack Businesses and Hobbies looks amazing for those of you who play more career or job orientated stories! Remember keep your eyes peeled for these expansion packs on sale!

The customisable names combine two nonsensical words like ‘Jumpy Knuckle,’ ‘Prickly Peanut,’ ‘Sneaky Grape,’ and ‘Green Crumb’ –competing with your friends to get the silliest name combination.

“Individual creativity without overwhelming choice...”

The simple animation and costumes allowed some individual creativity without overwhelming choice. It struck the perfect balance between engaging and non-overstimulating. Plus, it was plausible to convince your teachers it was educational, and to be honest it was, it tested critical thinking. around your computer as together the and become the and then playing teacher to help everyone else solve the mystery, there was nothing else like it. It was more than a game, sure the graphics were simple, and it wasn’t exactly high-tech, but that was part of the charm. It let your imagination fill in the gaps. It’s a reminder of simpler times, when all we needed was a good puzzle, a silly name, a quirky outfit, and a little curiosity to have the best

“It let your imagination fill in the gaps.”

Here's some games we're excited for this April...

As spring blooms, so does a fresh collection of games; here' a few of our favourite upcoming releases for you to play whilst you take a break from your studies this Easter...

Nif Nif: April 1st

Inside a magical forest, evil goo is invading! ‘Nif Nif’, a tiny piglet, is on a misson to remove the goo and save his animal pals.

Nif Nif is a cozy deckbuilder rougelike that markets itself on a ‘heartwarming story’ with ‘accessible mechanics for all game players. The game, developed by Springfox Games, was set to release on March 22nd but has been pushed back to April. A free demo is available on Steam now which I have played and found to be simple and relaxing with low stakes. It is also coming to Switch!

Fest, however, was leaked via Windows Central in 2021 where concept art was revealed. South of Midnight is a third-person Souls-like that is centred around Hazel’s ability to use her weaving powers for combat.  I know many people will enjoy this if they love a challenge!

Days Gone Remastered: April 25th

Receiving mixed reviews on its release Days Gone, created by Bend Studios, is an action-adventure third-person shooter set in a postapocalyptic Oregon. The game has you exploring an openworld, completing missions and battling through hordes of virus-infected enemies named ‘Freakers’. Upon its launch on PS4, some players cited the game being filled with bugs and suffering performance issues. The game’s mission design was also criticised being repetitive and lacking any variation, having the player travel to a location, battle through hordes of freakers and then returning to base. Overall, Days Gone was branded a generic open-world zombie game by the wider gaming community.

South of Midnight: April 8th

South of Midnight is the anticipated action-adventure from Complulsion Games, the studio that created We Happy Few South   of Midnight explores the mythos and mysterious creatures within the Deep South through a modern folktale. We follow Hazel, whose town (Prospero) has been devastated by a hurricane. She must become a ‘Weaver’ – a magical mender of broken bonds and spirits. South of Midnight was officially announced at the Xbox Games Showcase on June 11th, 2023, during Summer Game

With a remastered announced in February and releasing in April, Days Gone creative lead Kevin McAllistar stated that the title will benefit from “improved graphical fidelity, increased foliage draw distance, improved shadow and lighting quality, Tempest 3D Audio, VRR Support, and more”.  Hopefully with the PS5’s much more powerful hardware, Days Gone  will have a more successful launch than in 2019. I think that despite this upscaling of graphics and Bend Studio’s attempts to make the game as aesthetically pleasing as possible, the fact that the core gameplay is not being amended will not address the qualms players had with the original game.

Emily-Maisy Milburn

Keyon Snoek

Image Source: YouTube (choopo)

Image Source: YouTube (The Sims, Sims Community)

Image

Image Sources: Pixabay (manu_rios, MahuaSarkar)

F L O E J A E

Crossword

Word Ladder

Flower Garden

ANSWERS

Across

1) Rocky Mountain Thyme is a song that talks about 'the blooming -------'. (7)

2) These flowers come in many shades and hues but produce a poisonous milk from their stems. (10)

5) There are 400 -------- species of flowers. (8)

7) Latin word meaning 'pure' this flower is also a popular girls name though it has various spellings. (4)

8) Flower traditionally used to make Opium. (5)

9) Named after a Greek Tragedy about a man cursed to fall in love with his own reflection. (9)

10) ----- Eaters. (5)

13) Red Roses or White Lillies are traditional for this holiday which marks the end of Ramadan. (3)

14) Round Leaved ---Dew, a carnivorous plant that lives in bogs and marshes. (3)

16) --- Champa is known in English as the Plumeria. (3)

18) The Dosido or 'Dosey ---' is a flower with a strong lime and pine fragrance. (3)

Down

1) Lover to Apollo, this flower is named after a Greek Tragedy. (8)

3) The Black ------ is an unsolved murder case from the 1940s. (6)

4) Famous in the Netherlands. (5)

6) Song from the Sound of Music. (9)

11) Poison commonly known as deadly nightshade. (10)

12) Flower with Greek origin, meaning physician to the Gods. (5)

15) ----- or Danube flower is named for the river Danube and is traditionally a lavender blue colour. (5)

17) Produced in the axil of the leaf, this flower is from the same plant as a popular type of bean. (3)

Hyacinth, Narcisse, Daphne, Clematis (Spring flowers from Greek myth)

Hedgehog, Swallow, Badger, Common Toad (Spring animals)

March, Northward, Vernal, Spring (Names for the Spring Equinox)

NCL Sports Facilities ranked: Best places on campus to play sports

Adam Symes - Sport Sub-Editor

The contest you've been waiting for...

Newcastle University have various world class sports facilities on campus, which all provide different services for whatever sporting needs you may have. But everything needs a ranking, so here’s a list of sports facilities on campus that are ranked from worst to best.

on, finally proving that size does matter.

4. Squash Courts

5. Sports Hall 2- North Wing

Sports Hall 2 caters for Badminton, Basketball, Volleyball, 5-aside Football, Netball and Table Tennis. Whilst it provides a valuable space for certain sports, this facility ranks at the bottom of the list purely due to its size and quality in comparison to the other locations that will be mentioned later

With 4 glass backed courts, Newcastle Uni provides true quality to its squash players. If you’re in dire need of a casual squash game against your friends or just need an excuse to keep fit; then bookings are easy to make on the University’s Sport and Fitness website. However, for those who prize their squash abilities above the average human, why not try and compete to gain a place in one of the 4 men’s and 2 women’s teams who currently compete in BUCS.

3. Sports Hall 1- South Wing

Sports Hall 1 provides all the sports that the aforementioned sports hall does whilst also hosting slightly more niche sports like Pickleball, Short Tennis and Handball.  This is the space that gives

people the most variety of sports to play and pick from whilst it also hosts BUCS games (alongside Sports Hall 2) for most of the sports that have been named

2. Gym

The Universities gym facilities take 2nd place in this facilities ranking. The gym has high quality fitness equipment perfect for anyone who already goes to the gym or is thinking about starting. However, one issue with the main gym which sees them just miss out on top spot, is the popularity of it which causes a lack of availability for many machines. Recommended times to arrive at the gym would be from its 7am open until around 11am which is where the rush of gym goers starts to occur. An alternative option to dragging yourself out of bed early in the morning, would be to book one of

the downstairs strength and conditioning rooms which are much less busy and have all the necessary equipment.

Imagecredit:NewcastleUniversity

Taking the top spot are the 5 high quality sports studios that host a variety of different sports clubs, exercise classes and mindfulness spaces. Studios 1,2 and 4 are designed for instructor led exercises classes. This is where I personally took part in the Jujitsu society which had quality in depth sessions taught by wellqualified instructors, whilst it also held a good amount of space for everyone to practice in. Studio 3 is known as the Mind and Body studio, which caters for mainly Yoga and Pilates, giving a great space for people to relax exercising. Finally, the Spin Studio has a large amount of high-quality Technogym exercise bikes, perfect for having a high intensity workout during one of the many spin classes that are provided by the university.

Nationals inbound: Newcastle Pies make historic qualification

How many Pies?

Too many Pies.

The Newcastle Pies, Newcastle University Ultimate Frisbee Club, has recently made history as all of their teams have qualified for the Ultimate Frisbee Outdoors National Championship being hosted in Nottingham during the first week of April. The Pies are coming into the tournament as the underdogs, but will they be able to bring home a medal?

I had the opportunity to speak to the captains of all of their teams to learn their expectations for the tournament and what it means to them to have three teams in it.

Aaron Hume, M1’s captain said that despite their BUCS league results not going in their favour, this hasn’t reflected on the level of effort and improvement shown by the team: ‘A lot of games have been competitive, particularly our match against Durham was a great showing of how much we have developed as a team this season.’

Even though having placed last in their division (Men’s Northern Tier 1), Hume told The Courier that ‘whilst the losses have been frustrating, they have provided us with a lot of experience which, going into Nationals, will help us greatly’.

Whilst Nationals is less than a month away, Varsity is happening on March 26. When asked about how they have mixed the preparation for both, Aaron stated that ‘Having varsity the week before nationals aligns well because it gives us a high-intensity game to prepare our fitness, tactics, and management, giving us momentum going into nationals’.

One of his main goals as captain is to make sure that the team puts a good performance and see every person contribute to the best of their ability: ‘We’re not setting fixed expectations and pressure going into nationals, however, if we are able to reflect our performance for the indoor season that would be great, however outdoors is a completely different game.’

He also stated that Nationals is a great chance for all of the players to show their quality and for the newer players to make a real impact. Aaron said that they ‘will go into each game with confidence and belief in our ability, and if we do that then I’m certain we can leave nationals proud of our performance.’

On the other hand, the M2 had to play a qualifier to go to Nottingham and compete for the National Shield. They played against both Durham teams and Benjamin Sayer, M2 captain, states that they ‘lost quite heavily to Durham M2 at the start of the year and so that did hamper the confidence a little

"We’re not setting fixed expectations and pressure going into nationals."

When asked about the mindset when playing Durham, Sayer said that they ‘knew that, even though they had beaten us before, we had come along immensely as a team.’ Having played Durham plenty of times over the year, they became apparent a weakness in all of the Durham team, so they were certainly optimistic, but Benjamin confessed that their ‘mentality during the game was one of focusing and limiting silly mistakes. It was important to not get distracted by the occasion.’

The Pies M2 are considered one of the major underdogs of the tournament but Benjamin states that ‘the beauty of nationals is playing teams

and people we haven't played before so whilst we don't know what to expect, we are certainly confident in our ability to get some results.’

Whilst the M1 and M2 are competing for the National Trophy and National Shield, the W1 will be competing for the National Trophy, the second-highest category of the tournament. To qualify, they had to wait and see who scored the highest points out of all the 4th places and unfortunately, they fell short by only a few points.

Rosina Cook, W1 captain, stated that ‘whilst it would have been great to get to the top division, I am really proud of all of the team for making it so close, and developing from our performance last year.’

A lot of the players this year are new to the sport and are quite inexperienced and Cook stated that ‘Frisbee is one of those

that not many people play before coming to university, so it's really great that we have performed as we have, considering most of our players had never played before September. I'm excited to be able to build on this and continue our growth as we compete in the national tournament.’

"We’re

not setting fixed expectations and pressure going into nationals."

When asked about what they were looking forward to the most, she said that she’s looking forward to having a fun weekend where everyone plays their best: ‘It's always exciting to play at a competition where all of the best university players are taking part and you can push yourselves and learn from what other teams are doing.’

She also believes that it will be a great learning experience for everyone on the team as well as an opportunity to showcase how much they have developed this year.

Image credit: PickPik

Noelia Fernandez Perez - Sport Sub-Editor

Image credits: Pixabay @pixa_schrippe

The ‘Messi Effect’: Houston Dynamo FC offer complimentary tickets after a Lionel no-show

James Morley

What happens to MLS teams when the league's 'poster boy' can't play ball?

The Houston Dynamo have become the latest Major League Soccer (MLS) team to capitulate to the so called ‘Messi effect’ - a persistent trend of MLS teams issuing apologies or benefits to fans in lieu of the eight time Ballon D’or winners absence.

In a statement shared on X on Sunday (2nd March 2025), the Texan team notified the expectant attendees to the Shell Energy Stadium that ‘the recently shared player status report for the match did not include forward Lionel Messi’ and that he ‘did not make the trip to Houston,’ all the while appeasing disgruntled fans by offering them a ‘complimentary ticket to a future

Dynamo match this season.

"The ‘Messi effect’ has become a common theme within Major League Soccer."

The ‘Messi effect’ has become a common theme within Major League Soccer, with the Vancouver Whitecaps offering half price on all food and drink on gameday after it was confirmed that he would miss the May 2024 fixture. Likewise, the Chicago Fire offered a $250 account credit to new season ticket holders for the following season and $50 credit to existing season ticket holders towards the next season’s package.

The fan reaction has been less than

favourable, with fans being quick to label statements and benefits by opposing with others going as far as saying that it damages the reputation of the MLS as a

While the decision to award compensation for Messi’s absences has caused uproar within the MLS community, so has the inflated prices of tickets fans have had to pay in order to get a chance at witnessing one of football’s all time

Fans looking to catch a glimpse of the star can expect to part with hundreds of dollars, with resale sites listing the cheapest tickets for the fixture at $200 or more, in seats high up or far

For the more affluent fan looking for

premium seating, expect to part ways with thousands of dollars, as seen in New York City FC’s meeting with the Florida club last season reaching the eye-watering sum of over $9,000 for seating near the players bench.

"Inter

Miami clearly didn’t miss Messi’s absence"

In the end, however, Inter Miami clearly didn’t miss Messi’s absence, with an emphatic 4-1 win away from home cementing their solid start to the MLS season. The Dynamo, meanwhile, continue to be plagued with poor formbeing winless in their first three games, and finding themselves 13th in the Western Conference table.

The question remains however - is the MLS a competitive league to be taken seriously, or is it a means to gallivant around its money making asset, with fans expecting a refund if the big star fails to show?

Adrian Newey moves to Aston Martin in 2025. Women's History Month spotlight

Will Red Bull come to regret the departure of one of their greatest designers?

2025 is shaping up to be a dramatic year for F1, with five new rookies joining the grid and landmark changes like Lewis Hamilton’s move to Ferrari. But drivers aside, other often behindthe-scenes players in F1 are likely to have a huge impact on this year’s results.

One such player is Adrian Newey, the legendary designer of no less than twelve title-winning cars. Recently, these have included the ‘rocket-powered’ RB18 and RB19, the two cars that propelled Max Verstappen to victory in 2022 and 2023.

“After 19 successful years together, Newey will part ways with Red Bull.”

In a statement on the Oracle Red Bull Racing website, Newey said that he was grateful to the team for having helped him ‘make [his] dream a reality,’ but that he feels he needs to move away to ‘seek new challenges.’

“If a challenge is what he wants, Aston Martin is an ideal

destination.”

If a challenge is truly what he wants, then Aston Martin is an ideal destination, with the team having seen only some success over the past few years. A brief renaissance at the start of 2023 saw them gain an unexpected but euphoric six podium finishes – a feat which now looks to be a fluke.

Aston Martin boast only one pole position, and a highest

constructors’ championship finish of fifth place.

However, their surprise (though short-lived) success in 2023 suggests that they do have the means to go further, though perhaps were just lacking the right person to lead the charge.

Given the resounding success of his already thirty-one-year strong career, it looks likely that Adrian Newey could be the man for the job. Moreover, having signed a five-year contract, he’s set to remain with the team until at least 2030.

This could be instrumental in helping Aston Martin navigate the impending rule changes coming in 2026, the same year that they will enter a new partnership with Honda as their engine supplier. It should be noted that Honda also provided the engines for Newey’s dominant RB18 and RB19 – two cars which also emerged amongst a flurry of regulation changes.

Newey was also behind Red Bull’s greatest cars before the end of the V8 era, winning the team four consecutive constructors’ championships between 2010 and 2013. However, after 19 successful years together, Newey will part ways with Red Bull for the start of the 2025 season, joining Aston Martin instead.

“Will Newey's exit spell the end of Red Bull's recent dominance?”

On an estimated £20 million a year deal, there’s no question that Aston Martin view Adrian Newey as a powerful asset. Will this be the year they finally free themselves of the midfield? Will Newey’s exit spell the end of Red Bull’s recent dominance? As it stands, there’s still all to play for.

As March celebrates Women’s History Month there is no better time to honour Billie Jean King, a former world number one tennis player. She is not only regarded as one of the best tennis players of all time, but she is also a pioneer and advocate for gender equality in sport.

Fox in having more control over their professional lives. She fought for equal pay in tennis and by lobbying the U.S. Open, she achieved this in 1973.

In her tennis career during the seventies and eighties, King won 39 Grand Slam titles and a record 20 career victories at Wimbledon. Despite evidently proving herself as an excellent player, in 1973 at the age of 29 she was challenged to a match by the 55-yearold Bobby Riggs. Dubbed the ‘Battle of the Sexes,’ with over 90 million television viewers, King proved sexist opinions wrong by winning the match and taking home an equal prize offered to her male counterpart.

More than defeating Riggs, King exposed the skill of tennis to new audiences while shattering gendered biases against women in sport. She paved the way for increased participation in sport and empowered women across the world to advocate for equal pay to their male counterparts.

Beyond her impressive sporting career, King is the founder of the Women’s Tennis Association which supports female athletes

Her fight for equality extended beyond the boundaries of sport as she dedicated time to pass Title IX, a piece of landmark US legislation that prohibits sex-based discrimination in federally funded educational programs. In 1981, King became one of the first high-profile athletes to come out as gay, opening doors for acceptance and representation of the LGBTQ+ community.

King’s contributions to sport, equality, and LGBTQ+ rights have been recognised with awards such as the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honour in the United States. Her work continues through the Billie Jean King leadership initiative which promotes workplace

As we celebrate Women’s History Month, it’s important to reflect on the pioneers who fought for justice and rights that are still important today. King is not only an impressive athlete who excelled in tennis, but also a champion of social work who led equality movements in sport and society, not only for women but for the LGBTQ+

Tiahna

Image credit: Pixabay, DeviantArt

Image credit: FMT, Flickr

Lara Kelland

Strictly a cyclist: Newcastle’s annual charity dance show

Clare Baker

Strictly Come

Dancing is back!....

Except it’s not. Newcastle’s annual charity dance show is!

Two months ago, Newcastle Dance Club started their search for “celebrities” for their Annual Charity Dance Show, Newcastle Come Dancing. Being on committee for my sports club, as well as a member of other societies, I was recommended to put my name in the hat, get out my dancing shoes and help raise some money for an amazing cause. I received the email confirming that I was taking part, submitted some info about myself and

then, for the best part, was given my dance partner. We messaged to arrange coffee and when we met, clicked instantly and had such a giggle.

“She made sure that I knew what I was doing and felt comfortable.”

Rehearsals started in February and Lottie was such a wonderful teacher. She made sure I knew what I was doing and that I felt comfortable while also pushing me out of my comfort zone to try some lifts and tricks! The videos of us practising those lifts will never see the light of day as they are either completely unflattering, or just full of laughter and excited squeals as we try to lift each other up. We settled on one trick and, in my opinion, perfected it on

the night. We managed to meet for 5 rehearsals in our vastly different schedules and they became a highlight of my week. As a cyclist and runner, sport allows my mind to wander and I treat my training as a sort of therapy; me, my bike and the road. But dancing for an hour each week made me focus on something other than academics, giving my mind a healthy reset and bringing a lot of joy. I am very keen to keep dancing in my weekly schedule.

“I am very keen to keep dancing in my weekly schedule.”

The event was organised by Newcastle Dance Club’s Charity and Welfare Officer, Phoebe. She was absolutely incredible, always there to answer questions and she stayed so joyful and positive throughout the whole process. Phoebe did an incredible job of helping

to find costumes for all nine couples, and, like herding cats, filming us all for our Strictly intros! Together with Dan, she was the hostess with the most-ess on the night and did a phenomenal job of spearheading the event, raising money for Newcastle Carers. I would, without a doubt, recommend to anyone studying next year, to step out of their comfort zone and onto the dance floor.

“You might find a new skill, a new hobby, or a new friend.”

You never know, you might find a new skill, new hobby, or like me, a new friend. Either way, you’ll be sure to be welcomed by the Dance Club and supported by everyone you meet. #keepdancing

How Water Polo’s Northern Tier One came down to the last day

Louis Broe were playing a Liverpool side thought to be considerably inferior. Regardless, the team met outside the Henry Daysh at 9am and boarded their bus.

Balotelli and Aguero have nothing on Newcastle’s finest...

On the 5th of March the Water Polo Men’s First Team travelled down to Lancaster.

The league had come down to this, the last game of the season, as Newcastle sat joint with rivals Sheffield at the top of the table.

With Sheffield playing Liverpool just an hour after the Lancaster game, somebody would win the league before the end of the day. There was, however, an air of defeat amongst the boys, before they had even gotten wet.

Despite sitting level in terms of points, there was an unbridgeable gap in goal difference and Sheffield

The game kicked off and through a great set up from coach Adam Graham, Newcastle scored 13, with the ‘Sensei’, Ben Dixon only allowing 9 past him in goal. In a win which James Lamb proclaimed to have, “never been in doubt” (Lancaster won 0 games all season, so it’s a bit of an obvious statement), the boys had done their part. Newcastle scored 13, with the ‘Sensei’ Ben Dixon only allowing 9 past him

in goal. All that was left to do was wait. Before

INSIDE SPORT THIS WEEK

Water Polo’s Northen Tier One came down to the last day

of the blue, Alistair received a phone call from the Sheffield captain, and it was confirmed. Newcastle where the Northern Tier One champions. In a shock upset, Sheffield had capitulated and lost 15-10. Chants of, “championes, championes”. rang out down the M6, as the boys made their way back home victorious. In a season of highs and lows, where an earlier loss to Sheffield had cast a dark cloud over the campaign, the team had their fairy-tale ending. The win was made ever so sweeter, by the fact that this would be Harry Gabriel and Alistair’s final game for the club.

A further congratulations is in order for Ali, after he implemented the first ever sevenman arc to be successful in a water polo match. A massive well done to the men’s first team, not just champions but also as the only Newcastle Water Polo team to win more than one game this season.

Alex Duggan - AU Officer

Last week saw BIG BUCS Wednesday take over sunny Loughborough, with Newcastle teams putting in some fantastic performances. Our women’s rugby union and table tennis squads both made it to their respective finals—an achievement in itself. Table tennis faced Nottingham, while women’s rugby took on Brunel in a hard-fought match. Unfortunately, neither team came away with gold, but both put in strong performances and walked away with well-earned silver and bronze medals—a great way to cap off the 15s season for women’s rugby, and a great championship final for Erin and Scarlet from Table Tennis.

I spent the rest of the day watching various sports and catching up with sports sabbs from other unis. It was great to support our fellow North East universities, and at points, I even found myself adopted by Team Durham and Northumbria staff—momentarily getting caught up in the moment and shouting “Up the Poly!” (It won’t happen again, I promise).

The week before, Newcastle Come Dancing brought a different kind of competitive energy to campus. The performances were incredible, with so much enthusiasm and chemistry on display. Jack and Katie took home the trophy, but special mention to Lucy and Keegan, whose unexpected trousers-to-boxers reveal had the crowd in stitches!!

Next week, we have the longawaited Varsity day—hope our teams are ready to take on Northumbria! Save the date: 26th March!

Image credit: @nuwpcwaterpolo, Instagram

Image credit: Alex Duggan, Rawpixel

Image credit: @picturesbybish