ESP April 2015

APRIL 2015 Issue 188

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The best of local Leisure & Lifestyle for Greater Peterborough

What’s On Live Music The Posh Page Wheels Peterborough model Jack Padgett hits the catwalk

ESP meets Cassidy Little winner of The People’s Strictly What’s next for our local stars of The Voice?

kiesza ESP chats to

EvEn morE nEws and EvEnts on WWW.ESPMaG.CO.uk or LikE us on FaCEbOOk or foLLow us on TWiTTEr to hEar first

Gossip gossip@espmag.co.uk

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EDITORIAL Editor Sharon McAllister sharon.mcallister@espmag.co.uk

ADVERTISING Head of Sales & Marketing Sean McAllister sean.mcallister@espmag.co.uk Sales Executive Deborah Grace

deborah.grace@espmag.co.uk

COVER PHOTO Roger Deckker

DESIGN Tony Mayer

tony.mayer@espmag.co.uk

PHOTOGRAPHY Andy Vernum, Emma Bothamley, Mike Harris, Chris Brudenell, Andrew James

COLuMNISTS Pep Cipriano Steve Gonzalez Karen Devine

pep.cipriano@espmag.co.uk steve.gonzalez@espmag.co.uk karen.devine@espmag.co.uk

REPORTERS Mikey Clarke Anna Ruggiero

mikey.clarke@espmag.co.uk anna.ruggiero@espmag.co.uk

CONTRIBuTORS Gavin Miller Charlotte Jolly Keith Dalton Sarah Tempest Sue Donnelly

gavin.miller@espmag.co.uk charlotte.jolly@espmag.co.uk keith.dalton@espmag.co.uk sarah.tempest@espmag.co.uk sue.donnelly@espmag.co.uk

ESP MAGAZINE LTD Directors Sharon McAllister sharon.mcallister@espmag.co.uk Sean McAllister sean.mcallister@espmag.co.uk

T: 01733 381266 E: office@espmag.co.uk

ESP is a totally independent publication, not linked in any way to any other Peterborough publications. ESP is written, researched, designed and published by ESP Magazine Ltd. The views expressed in this magazine are those of the individual writers and do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher. All design and artwork is the copyright of its respective owner. Reproduction of any part of this publication is strictly prohibited unless prior written consent is given by the publishers.

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It’s a great place to find a present for PETERBOROUGH AMICI LAUNCH someone else too or make life really easy and buy an Outfit gift card! Check out the HERITAGE CHRISTMAS latest looks from Outfit in our special FESTIVAL MENU feature on www.espmag.co.uk Spalding’s great Italian restaurant Amici ESP is pleased to hear that the tell us they’ve launched a delicious Peterborough Heritage Festival ICAP , ‘Italian Community Arts GET PARTY special Christmas menu this December, will go ahead this year with Project’ is a year-long project with five new starters, five main courses READY @ city MY fantastic support from firm including artistofled workshopsdesserts for and plenty mouth-watering BODY Perkins and as part of a threechildren adults fromexclusive the Italian that&are completely to the menu. year partnership.

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Collaboration and collective research through the project have inspired a Sculpture for the Italian Community which will be exhibited in Peterborough during 2015 at Peterborough Town Hall on Friday May 1, Vivacity's Key Theatre on Monday June 1 and The Fleet on Wednesday July 1.

TRESPASS Sunday December 29, you can make your booking AT by calling 01775 767696.

ARRIVES QUEENSGATE LATE NIGHT SHOPPING @ SPRINGFIELDS It’s not always easy to fit Christmas shopping into a busy schedule. Luckily, Springfields Outlet Shopping in Spalding haveisextended theirstore opening Trespass the latest tohours to us out! Springfields is now open on arrive help at Queensgate shopping until 9pm this month through centre.weekdays The outdoor clothing until the week commencing Monday specialist is a welcome addition December 23. What’s more, the car to thepark centre and for will be freegreat to usetiming from 6pm. shoppers who are looking Subway, The Kitchen and for Frankie and some Benny’s, outdoorhowever, fun this willsummer. remain open until They stock 10pm. a wide range of camping equipment, perfect for the festival season too.

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Take a look at photos CHRISTMAS from the night on our Paparazzi pagesDAY in this issue.

BUFFET Yaxley restaurant Bollywood Tiger is

bringing an Indian flavour to the menu ONLY HORSES this Christmas with a special Christmas AND THREE Day buffet. So if you fancy a change from COURSES the turkey and aAT rest from the cooking the buffet is priced at THE BULL £19.95 per adult, whilst senior citizens and children can dine for Join the BullFor Hotel Saturday £14.95. bookings, call 01733 246519.

June 20 for the dining event of the year! The evening will COCK INN combine an evening of fine food WINTER BEER and Only Fools and Horses themed comedy action. Expect a FEST big funThe night party Cockin Innaatfriendly Werrington has festive atmosphere with some of the finest comedy actors. To book call 01733 561364.

EASTER FUN AT SPRINGFIELDS This Easter, Springfields Shopping Centre in Spalding is making sure that all the family can enjoy some traditional fun at the centre. Visitors can look forward to an Easter Egg Hunt with the chance to win an XBOX, free face painting, balloon art and even Spalding water taxi rides! For more info visit www.springfieldsshopping.co.uk

POST OFFICE IN A PUB! The Rose and Crown in Thorney have opened up a post office in the pub, which is great news for the villagers after the closure of their local branch. Sheila and Steve have been running the pub for 20 years and are delighted to offer this service, alongside a large selection of drinks, and a fantastic food menu in both the restaurant and café.

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THE HERON 1ST BIRTHDAY BEER FESTIVAL! This April sees the first birthday of The Heron in Stanground since its reopening under new management, and to celebrate, the popular pub will be dedicating the month of April to local ale. ESP also hear they are having a beer festival weekend on Friday April 17 and Saturday April 18. What can you expect? Good beer and great entertainment! Enjoy.

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COMEDY @ THE ADDISON ARMS Fancy a night of laughs? Then head to the Addison Arms, Glatton, on Wednesday April 15 for their much-loved comedy night. Punters can enjoy some serious laughs from comedians such as Coronation Street star Macca, also known as Gareth Berliner. Tickets are just £10 and the night kicks off at 7pm. Have fun!

SHINE CONTINUE TO KEEP ON SHINING! The ESP team would like to say congratulations to Peterborough charity Shine, after their chairman, Richard Astle, undertook the Chairman’s Challenge to mark his 10th anniversary with Shine.

Richard challenged himself and others to undertake 10 challenges, ranging from a Sahara Trek, to half marathons and a Santa dash and raised more than £35k, which has made Shine's dream to have a specialist spina bifida health suite at its Peterborough head quarters, a reality.

There are more celebrations ahead as Shine, the charity that helps families and individuals affected by spina bifida and hydrocephalus, prepares for its 50th anniversary celebrations at Peterborough Cathedral next year, with the launch of its next campaign, Shine in the City! Watch this space….

BMW LAUNCHES NEW MINI ESP is delighted to announce the launch of the new BMW MINI John Cooper Works. Arriving on Saturday May 2 at Sycamore MINI in Werrington, we can’t wait to see this car in action so watch this space for more details of the launch.

THE STAMFORD AMATEUR MUSICAL SOCIETY CELEBRATE 110TH ANNIVERSARY It’s an exciting time for the Stamford Amateur Musical Society (SAMS), who, are celebrating their staggering 110th anniversary!

It’s been a busy time for the group with rehearsals for their adaptation of the Wizard of Oz on June 10 - 14 and their charity work. The society successfully raised over £350 by packing customers’ bags at Morrison’s and will be donating 50% of the funds raised to Anna’s Hope, their chosen charity during their 2015 season. For more info visit www.stamfordams.co.uk.

SPRING INTO FASHION! Spring time has finally sprung and what better way to enjoy this lovely time of year than treating yourself to some fresh fashion at the Brotherhoods Park in Peterborough. With a whole host of top fashion stores to choose from, get yourself down there and put some spring in your fashion step.

LOCAL

Entertainment

ESP’s Anna Ruggiero has our guide to the best shows around...

STRICTLY STAR PASHA KOVALEV 'LIFE THROUGH DANCE' The ESP team loved watching the last series of Strictly Come Dancing and ESP reporter Sarah Tempest also rather enjoyed interviewing one half of the winning duo, Pasha Kovalev. If you missed the interview in our March issue, don’t worry, the extended version’s online at www.espmag.co.uk.

For a second glimpse of his talents, fans can enjoy Pasha’s amazing new show, Life Through Dance, which is being performed on Saturday April 25, at the Cresset.

MACBETH @ THE KEY

Starring Pasha and his sensational dancers, the audience can enjoy a magical evening of Ballroom and Latin dance with all its glitter and sequins!

Theatre lovers are in for a treat with this contemporary cross-cultural twist on a muchloved Shakespeare classic, Macbeth. This is the first production from Black Theatre Live – a pioneering group of eight regional theatres committed to increasing the amount of black and ethnic minority theatre on the touring circuit.

WHOSE LIFE IS IT ANYWAY?

Spun together with a blend of Indian music and movement, this brand new production tells the tale of Macbeth adapted to the twists, tales, treachery and ambition of an Asian family on the road to destruction.

The cast includes Robert Mountford, who enjoyed a part in Silent Witness for the BBC and will be joined by Shaheen Khan, whose credits include Bend it Like Beckham.

Performances are on Tuesday April 28 and Wednesday April 29 and tickets start from £11 on 01733 207239.

Tickets are £25 on 01733 265705.

DOC BROWN - THE WEIRD WAY ROUND The Key is really treating theatre fans this season with a whole host of exclusive performances and Doc Brown's The Weird Way Round looks like a show that brings something a little bit different to Peterborough.

Theatre fans can look forward to this powerful play, Whose Life is it Anyway? by Brian Clarke, performed by Mask Theatre at the Key running from Tuesday April 21 to Saturday April 25.

Mixing comedy and hip hop to present his unique take on life and love, rapper come comedian, and star of TV’s Law and Order, Brown has been recognised by critics as having 'sharp punchlines, imaginative devices and knows more than a thing or two about timing'.

Examining who holds the choice between life and death, it won an Olivier Award for Best Play in 1979, and is as relevant today as it was when Tom Conti took the role in the West End Production.

This is definitely one for the diary and Doc Brown will be performing at the Key on Thursday April 23.

Tickets are just £10 and are available on 01733 207239.

Tickets are £15 on 01733 207239.

JEM'S HIP HOP PRESENTS ILLUSION Combining a cool mixture of dance styles with stunning visual effects, Illusion, dancers from Jem's Hip Hop street dance school, return to the Cresset stage on Wednesday April 8 and Thursday April 9 with this innovative dance production.

Illusion promises to be a spectacle like no other, featuring amazing routines and breathtaking songs all performed by local dancers of all ages. Tickets £12, £10 concessions on 01733 265705.

VICAR OF DIBLEY LIVE ON STAGE! The Corn Exchange Theatre Players are bringing the well loved Vicar of Dibley to the stage at the Stamford Corn Exchange running from April 23 - April 26.

The show will be supporting Comic Relief and audiences can enjoy seeing their favourite characters lovingly recreated on stage with the usual humour and wit you’d expect from this much-loved comedy classic.

Tickets start from £8.50 and are available on 01780 766455.

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GOOD MUSIC, GOOD FRIDAY, GOOD CAUSE! In an effort to raise over £10,000 in aid of Cancer Research UK, TickinBoxes, will be performing at the Stamford Corn Exchange on Friday April 3.

The group is an amateur 4 piece band that will be playing original tunes as well as acoustic covers from the likes of Stereophonics and U2. This special fundraising night will also feature comedian and compere Bobby Dazzler and support acts.

Further details of the band can be found on www.facebook.com/tickinboxes Tickets cost £20 or a 2 Course Cavery & Show ticket is £32.95, available on 01780 766455.

PETERBOROUGH ARTS CINEMA The Thursday night arts cinema screenings at the John Clare Theatre on Broadway continues with another great line up this month…

Pride – Thursday April 16 George MacKay is Joe, a just-turned 20 mummy’s boy on the brink of coming out, who finds himself supporting the miners in 1984. Mark launches the inelegantly named Lesbians and Gays Support the Miners and heads off to a mining village in the Dulais valley, which seems to view ‘gays’ and vowels with equal suspicion.

Mr. Turner – Thursday April 23 Timothy Spall plays JMW Turner in Mike Leigh’s richly and intensely enjoyable study of the great artist’s final years.

Nightcrawler – Thursday April 30 When Lou Bloom (Jake Gyllenhaal), a driven man desperate for work, muscles into the world of L.A. crime journalism, he blurs the line between observer and participant to become the star of his own story. Aiding him in his effort is Nina, a TV news veteran.

SISTERS ARE DOING IT FOR THEMSELVES! Many of us have seen the fantastically funny film Sister Act, and now musical fans can marvel at the humour and wit of this popular movie live on stage at the Key Theatre, from Tuesday April 14 – Saturday April 18.

Presented by the Westwood Musical Society, Sister Act tells the hilarious story of Deloris Van Cartier, a wannabe diva who witnesses a crime and the cops hide her in the last place anyone would expect to look – a convent! Expect laughs aplenty with this brilliantly humorous production.

Tickets are £16 (£13 for concessions on Tuesday and Saturday matinee and £50 for family tickets) on 01733 207239.

BIG GIRLS DONT CRY The iconic sound of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons are lovingly recreated in this feel good concert with four phenomenal singers and a fantastic live band.

Live tribute act, The East Coast Boys, bring all the sensation and good sounds of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons live to the stage at the Key Theatre on Saturday April 25.

This fantastic show is guaranteed to have you dancing in the aisles, featuring many hits from both sides of the Atlantic: Sherry, Grease Is The Word, Bye Bye Baby, Stay, Silence is Golden, Working My Way Back to You Babe.

Tickets are £19.50 on 01733 207239.

PINK FLOYD TRIBUTE – THE WALL OF FLOYD Pink Floyd won an army of devoted fans and now you can enjoy a night to remember with a fantastic sound and light show from the Wall of Floyd, one of the finest Pink Floyd tribute acts on the circuit.

Performing live on Friday April 24 at the Cresset with a string of Floyd classics such as Shine on You Crazy Diamond, Arnold Lane, Money and The Great Gig in the Sky, Wall of Floyd have been praised by fans following their performance at Weymouth Pavilion with comments such as: ‘Outstanding performance.. .the closest I’ve ever seen to Pink Floyd and the best £18 I’ve ever spent’ and ‘I was blown away by the Syd Barrett numbers’.

Tickets start from £17.50 and are available on 01733 265705. www.espmag.co.uk

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LOCAL

Events

ESP’s Anna Ruggiero has our guide to the best events around...

EASTER AND SPRING FUN @ SACREWELL

The Posh are ensuring that families won’t be bored this April bank holiday with a day packed full of food, family fun and of course, football.

Posh take on Walsall and tickets for under 18s will be discounted to just £1 with a full paying adult in the Family Stand and Motorpoint Stand.

Spring is Sacrewell’s favourite time of year so make sure you plan some time to take a trip to the countryside to enjoy all the pleasures of farm life.

Before the football begins, there will be plenty of fun to be had at the stadium in the shape of a bouncy castle, a bull ride simulator, face painters, balloons, a cake stall and even an Easter Egg hunt with Peter Burrow at 12pm. They have 30 places available for the hunt and tickets (which cost just £2) must be purchased in advance.

First of all, make a date with Sacrewell’s Big Bunny from March 28 – April 12 and discover what’s hidden in the Enchanted Wood.

To start your adventure, you’ll jump on a bumpy tractor ride where you’ll hop off to explore the woodlands. Hidden among the trees are plastic eggs and the challenge is to find one to give to the Big Bunny in exchange for a tasty chocolate surprise.

Sacrewell works with photographer Vanessa Barton, who’ll be there to capture a family photo of you with the Big Bunny, which you can buy and collect before you leave the centre.

EASTER FUN WITH THE POSH

All the fun begins from 12pm and will be in place until kick off which is at 3pm.

For more info and to buy tickets visit www.theposh.com

EASTER TRAIL AT FERRY MEADOWS

For some more countryside fun, head back to the farm on May 3 and May 4 for the annual Spring Fair. There’ll be fun and games, wool spinning, ale brewing, a tasty barbecue and much more!

The lamb and kid feeding shows are also underway every day until April 19.

Normal admission applies for entry and a trip to the Enchanted Wood costs an additional £3 per child.

Sacrewell is open from 9.30am to 5pm every day and under twos can visit for free.

FULL STEAM AHEAD AT NENE VALLEY RAILWAY Nene Valley Railway, the UK’s leading steam engine and locomotive attraction, based at Peterborough’s Nene Valley Station, have planned a weekend of education and play this Easter with their fun and exciting Children’s Post Office Weekend.

For more info visit www.sacrewell.org.uk Running from April Saturday 4 – Monday April 6, the fun activities include mail sorting in the post office coach, a quiz, a visit to the activities coach and what Easter event would be complete without a treasure hunt? Also several times each day, they will be using the mail transfer equipment, where big bags of letters are scooped up and dropped off by the train without it stopping. It’s a spectacular sight enjoyed by both children and adults alike, especially as you get to ride to the drop viewing point in the mail carriage.

For more info visit www.nvr.org.uk/Running-Days

Ferry Meadows Country Park is treating us this year with an adventurous Easter trail suitable for all ages and abilities at the park so why not grab some fresh air!

Running from Saturday March 28 to Monday April 13, you simply collect a trail sheet from the visitor centre and off you go, hunting for clues as you walk around the meadows and then return to the visitor centre to claim your prize.

For more info call Nene Park Trust on 01733 234193 or e-mail visitor.services@ neneparktrust.org.uk

PEPPA PIG AND GEORGE COME TO TOWN! The ever popular Peppa Pig and her adorable little brother George are trotting back to Queensgate Shopping Centre on Thursday April 9 for a day of Easter family fun.

The cute duo will be saying hello to little ones during story time sessions at intervals between 12.00 and 4.30pm so make sure you get down there to join in the fun!

It’ll be an energetic time of play for the youngsters but make sure they save some of that energy for a special Muddy Puddles Treasure Hunt happening throughout the day, also at the shopping centre.

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Café Clarkes at the Key Theatre Open 12 noon – 2.30pm for lunch and from 5pm – 10pm for dinner.

Full à la carte menu available every evening as well as a special lunchtime menu for afternoon diners.

01733 561465 www.cafeclarkes.co.uk

LOCAL

Events

ESP’s Anna Ruggiero has our guide to the best events around...

QUEENSGATE’S SPRING FASHION SHOWCASE The biggest fashion extravaganza of 2015 is coming to Queensgate Shopping Centre on Saturday May 2; featuring over ten explosive spring-inspired fashion performances.

Showcasing the latest trends and must-haves from the spring and summer collections, the Queensgate Fashion Showcase is a stunningly choreographed and high energy set of performances presenting the hottest outfits from all the major brands within Queensgate and Westgate Arcade.

Visit the Queensgate website and follow on social media for more info www.queensgate-shopping.co.uk

TICKETS ON SALE FOR LAST EVER STEAMIN’ BLUES The final whistle is about to blow on Steamin’ Blues this summer.

PETERBOROUGH GOES GREEN! Peterborough is home to one of the UK’s biggest and longest running environmental events, the Green Festival. Now in its 23rd year, this year’s festival will be launched on Saturday May 23, with activities running right through until Sunday May 31.

The event is an incredible celebration of all things green and is a great day out for the whole family.

It all kicks off on the launch day, held in Cathedral Square, St John’s Square and Cowgate, where visitors can enjoy a fun-packed day with a wide range of activities including heritage crafts, live music, stalls showcasing information on wildlife, local food and craft work, dance performances, the children’s playbus and much more for you and all the family to enjoy. It really will be great to see the city centre dedicated to all things green, ESP is getting right behind it and we can’t wait!

We’ll have full details in next month’s issue.

Entry’s free and for more info, visit www.pect.org.uk and join in the conversation online @SustainableCity with #PECTGreenFestival.

The popular live music event at Nene Valley Railway started back in 2000 and was the brainchild of Hannah Forman, now the General Manager at the railway, and her brother, internationally renowned bass guitarist, Colin Hodgkinson.

GET ROWING AT THE DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL Not long to go now until the popular Dragon Boat Festival, in aid of Sue Ryder, Thorpe Hall Hospice, takes to the water in Peterborough on Saturday June 13.

The event staged at Peterborough Rowing Lake comes in the final month of the Thorpe Hall Capital Appeal to raise £6 million to build a new hospice to serve the region.

ESP is right behind this fundraising appeal and Thorpe Hall’s Lucy Squance told us: “We’re so grateful to all those teams who are pledging to support our appeal through the Dragon Boat Festival. It’s shaping up to be a great event and it would be fabulous to see more teams jumping aboard.”

So far, there’s been a real mixture of teams signing up including Peterborough Fitzwilliam Hospital, PS Financial, Peterborough Greyhound Stadium and many more.

What are you waiting for? You don’t need any previous experience so get signed up and have some fun for charity!

For more info and an entry form call festival organisers Gable Events on 01780 470718 or visit www.dragonboatfestivals.co.uk/peterborough

They both thought that the steam railway lent itself perfectly to an evening listening to some of the best blues musicians on the scene and having been along ourselves to this fantastic night we couldn’t agree more.

The format for the evening has remained unchanged over the years – a steamhauled train picks up passengers from the stations along the Nene Valley line, Yarwell, Ferry Meadows, Orton Mere and Peterborough. There is a bar on the train just to get the crowd in the mood and it then transports them to Wansford Station to a marquee where there’s a real ale bar and some of the best music you could get to hear in this area.

The event has a hard core of followers and is always a sell-out, but this year June 13 will be the last one. They’ve ordered an extra-large marquee but you’ll still need to get in quick. Tickets are now on sale so visit www.nvr.org.uk or call 01780 784444.

SPENCER’S CHARITY BALL PUTS ON THE GLITZ

Photo: Chris Brudenell

For a fabulous evening of glitz and glamour, put Saturday April 25 in your dairy and get ready to sparkle the night away.

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The Spencer's Charity Ball is an annual fundraiser in honour of youngster Spencer Schwarz who suffers from a rare genetic disorder affecting the brain.

The dinner dance will be held at Peterborough Arena raising funds for the Friends of Phoenix School, which caters for severely and profoundly disabled pupils.

Tickets are £65 and the evening will include a drinks reception, three-course dinner with complimentary wine, live music and entertainment, a casino, photographer, photo booth, magicians, clairvoyants and a late-night disco. Plenty to guarantee you have a fun packed night!

For further details call 01733 324568.

The King’s Singers

BIG NAMES JOIN CITY CHOIRS ON BROADWAY! World class performers are joining forces with local talent for two amazing concerts at the Broadway Theatre this spring!

The Black Dyke Band

Peterborough Male Voice Choir

Three award-winning choirs from Peterborough will be taking to the stage with The Black Dyke Band and The King’s Singers as part of their ‘Big Names’ programme, bringing more top performers to the city for some spectacular shows.

The Kings Singers are a global phenomenon, singing at over 120 concerts annually to capacity audiences around the world. Incredibly talented and charismatic they perform everything from classical to jazz to pop hits!

The Peterborough Male Voice Choir, Peterborough Voices and Peterborough Youth Choir have helped bring back to life the city’s Broadway Theatre, one of our favourite underused venues, taking up residency there for rehearsals and performances.

The popularity of the three city choirs has grown so much there’s now a fair chance you may know at least one person involved. They’re made up entirely of local people, many of whom had never sung before other than in the shower! Will told ESP he’s been delighted with they way the choirs have grown – “Our recruitment activities have seen us engage members of our community here in Peterborough who would never otherwise have considered joining a choir, and have helped us unlock some raw talent and incredible singing potential that was going unheard in our city. We’ve created not just a fantastic music making team, but a real community – I’m proud of what we’ve achieved!”

Will Prideaux, director of the choirs and their associated charity Peterborough Sings!, says – “The fact that we are able to attract truly world-class talent to work with us here is a great achievement and I’m proud that we are putting Peterborough on the cultural map of the UK.” The world’s most famous brass band – Black Dyke Band – will be performing with the choirs on Saturday April 11. The following month it’ll be the turn of the globally renowned, double Grammy Award-winning King’s Singers on Saturday May 30.

The Black Dyke Band have recorded with Paul McCartney and Wings, Evelyn Glennie, Peter Gabriel, Tori Amos and Beautiful South, and appeared on The Beatles’ hit record Yellow Submarine as well as performing the theme music for BBC TV’s Ground Force.

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They’re no strangers to working with big names and in recent years Peterborough Male Voice Choir, Peterborough Voices and Peterborough Youth Choir have between them appeared with a host of stars including legendary soprano Lesley Garrett, the late Bernie Nolan, classical crossover band Blake, folk legend Jon Boden of Bellowhead, Grimethorpe Colliery Band (from the film Brassed Off!) and the multi award-winning Aurin Girls’ Choir, not to mention featuring in the national tours of Joseph

and Evita – with Marti Pellow and Madelena Alberto – during the fantastic Bill Kenwright Ltd season at the Broadway Theatre in 2013.

We like to champion all sorts of music and entertainment at ESP and we’re pleased to see that whatever your taste the city seems to be presenting it. Singing in a choir doesn’t mean you have to be all Aled Jones about it! These choirs belt out movie tunes and songs from the shows as well as the classics and have put on some truly varied performances Now well established what are Will’s plans for the choirs in future? “Seeing the fruits of our extensive youth and schools outreach work in developing new membership for the adult choirs, as well as expanding our exciting programme of ‘Big Names’ at the Broadway Theatre... watch this space!”

Fancy joining them and getting the chance to join more big names on stage? You don’t need any experience.

“At Peterborough Sings! we believe that anyone and everyone can learn to sing,” explains Will,“and there’s a hugely supportive culture within the choirs which encourages members’ personal development. Professional tuition is given at rehearsals and one to one lessons and coaching are available to all members, who are supported throughout by our wonderful team of Section Managers!

New members are always very welcome.”

Just visit www.peterboroughmvchoir.org.uk for more info.

Voices and Brass with Black Dyke Band is at the Broadway Theatre at 7.30pm on Saturday April 11.

The King’s Singers perform at the Broadway Theatre at 7.30pm on Saturday May 30.

BOOK NOW! Tickets from £12 available at Peterborough Visitor Information Centre, by phone on 0333 666 3366 or online at www.peterboroughmvchoir.org.uk

GUILTY PLEASURE pep.cipriano@espmag.co.uk

Feeling bad for scoffing that Krispy Kreme doughnut? Well don't. Apparently it takes 30 minutes of sex to burn it off... and there's 12 to a box. All donations will be gratefully received. Thanks.

Pep Cipriano

PEARS STRIKES A CHORD I’ve thoroughly enjoyed writing my ‘Back in the Day’ features and almost all of them have triggered off your special memories of being part of the weekend town scene when it was arguably at its best and busiest during the 1990s.

But my Miss Pears trip down memory lane in last month’s column has struck a chord in lots of people. Naming them would take up far too much space!

But you know who you are and thank you for acknowledging my memories as well as reminding me what I’d forgotten.

I mentioned the delicious burgers at Miss Pears but how could I forget the deep pan pizza slices for only 65p?!

But perhaps the most important memory I didn’t write about (I was saving it for another day) was that sunny Saturday afternoon in August 1994 when the Evening Telegraph A-frame outside Pears had my youthful face plastered all over it.

My weekly Italian football column – Pep Talk – was born. Two or three Gatsby’s were consumed that afternoon and I even remember signing copies of my first-ever column! The rest, as they say, is history.

I’ll be featuring a few more venues and the people who shaped them in the coming months, so watch this space.

Until then, here’s a twist on Back in the Day that I’ve wanted to include for a while. Music plays a big part in stirring up memories and every so often I’ll hear a tune that reminds me of venues I used to frequent.

It’s been hard to pick just one but here’s a list of tracks and the venues they remind me of: ‘Missing You’ (Soul II Soul): Miss Pears ‘Dirty Cash’ (The Adventures of Stevie V): Riley’s Snooker Club ‘Jump Around’ (House of Pain): Rinaldo’s ‘Love Rears its Ugly Head’ (Living Colour): Quo Vadis ‘Angels’ (Robbie Williams): The Solstice ‘I Will Always Love You’ (Whitney Houston): L’Aristo’s ‘Lola’s Theme’ (Shapeshifters): ToHo ‘Insomnia’ (Faithless): Liquid ‘Lady’ (Modjo): Café En Seine ‘Crazy Love’ (MJ Cole): The Bar ‘Too Blind to See it’ (Kym Sims): Central Park What are your music and venue memories? Share them with me pep.cipriano@espmag.co.uk

CIAOS OUT > 14

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FAREWELL

PARTY AT XXI

Another venue is preparing to bow out of the city centre night scene and this time Peterborough’s oldest club XXI will be calling last orders next month.

Better known to most of us as the City Club or City and Counties, the 148 year-old building is preparing to go out in style on May 2 with a party to mark its last night of trading before it makes way for a residential development.

Operators Karen Winner and Steve Jason took over at the helm nine years ago and have always tried to position it as a venue that appealed to the over 25’s.

I’m sure there were times when they considered joining ranks with the rest of the city’s over 18’s offering but the pair have stood firm and probably started to see some sustainable reward with the opening of several restaurants nearby.

But the brewery that owns the building has accepted an offer from developers and before long XXI will be no more.

XXI has always been hidden away from the main strip but in fairness to its location, the club’s managed to stay open until now, which demonstrates good management and a loyal clientele.

Despite not being a regular visitor, I’ll be sad to see it go, not least because I think it’s a lovely building with attractive period features. Over the years I’ve frequented dozens of birthday and engagement parties in there – I’ve even tried my hand at Salsa lessons in there.

Looking back I wish I’d popped in for a drink more often and I wonder if most people reading this are thinking the same. I bet we’ll miss it when it’s gone.

‘The Last Dance’ party will feature past entertainers who’ve played at the club for one last encore and a £100 prize is up for grabs for the person attending on the night who can produce the oldest membership card. Call: 01733 562101 for tickets.

>> Lucas – congrats on landing the job! >> Asif – Tracy Chapman rules >> Juliano – use The Force and you’ll recover >> Dave – time for another put the world right coffee? >> Ange and Jon – Bill’s next? I have shares >> Petch and Colin – we watching the big fight?

<

MY WORD OF THE MONTH

EASTER

Manager, Spencer Lloyd, at the Sir Henry Royce

NEW OPENINGS LIVEN UP CITY CENTRE

Eden is the name of a new bar that’s opened at The Solstice.

It’s basically an expansion of the Cargo Bar space but a new hydraulic roof has been installed to make the space a little more chilled.

Table service has been introduced and there are some new touches to the walls and LED lighting in the floor. The changes look great and it’s now ready to be hired out for parties and functions.

Rumour has it that the College Arms are making changes to their beer garden too. Word is it’ll be expanded into the car park at the rear of the pub. If this is true then we’ll see the current beer garden more than double in size. Nice. Watch this space.

Photo: Emma Bothamley

It’s the first Bank Holiday of the year and most of us will get a couple of days off. Here’s a bunch of people and circumstances that Christians need to thank: Jesus, Romans, Judas, God, a donkey, palm leaves, crucifixion, resurrection, Mary Magdalene, Last Supper, breaking bread and washing feet.

FIRST RECORD STORE DAY IN THE ‘BORO An independent city record shop will be taking part in a one-day global event where special vinyl releases and various promotional products will be made exclusively available for sale.

will be unlocking its doors to music fans for Record Store Day from 8am on April 18 and owner Matt Hawton is expecting a surge of record collectors to be swarming all over his small shop.

It’s the first time a record business in Peterborough has taken part in Record Store Day when independently owned record stores come together with artists to celebrate music.

He told me: “Record Store Day has become hugely popular and important to music fans.

On the day exclusive and limited edition records and CD’s will be released and available only to independent shops.

This sounds right up my street and I just might pop along to see what vinyl I can add to my collection. Before the introduction of CD’s I was buying at least one vinyl album a month and it all started with Michael Jackson’s Thriller but I bought my first single in 1981 – Shaddap You Face (Joe Dolce).

Nowadays I’m picking up bargains in charity shops although prices are steadily on the increase and so they should be.

“Strict rules on selling restrict the way records can be purchased and this means a first come, first served basis is adopted.

Historically, Record Store Day customers have arrived as early as 5am to secure the records they want and some of my customers have already told me they’ll be doing the same!”

More detail can be found here www.marrsplectrum.co.uk/recordstoreday

Marrs Plectrum Records (387 Fulbridge Road)

ON YER BIKE FOR FREE KICKS disadvantaged children – and to give them a day to remember with their favourite football club.

And finally Yates’s has undergone a £155,000 facelift to become a new pub called Sir Henry Royce. Those of you who know your local history will realise it's been named after the Peterborough-born engineer and co-founder of Rolls Royce.

Manager Spencer Lloyd has introduced a new food and drinks menu and there's a focus on expanding their cask ale range.

Sounds like a good excuse for a lunchtime visit!

Fundraising for the foundation is supported by Le Tour Free Kicks – an annual intensive cycle ride, which will take place between May 19 and 23. The ride is themed on this year’s Tour de France and riders will be making their way through Yorkshire and into the Derbyshire Dales before heading back to the city for a finish at Posh.

The 350 mile trip will be made by 15 riders who all have close links to the city. Last year a team of 26 riders raised £25,000 by taking part in Le Tour Free Kicks and other events.

If there’s one thing I could do with to navigate my way through Queensgate on a busy Saturday afternoon it’s a bike. So you can imagine my relief when I actually came across one!

THE ACT! CAUGHT IN in d ul set up home

Blimey Meg, I cobeehive! that

The Free Kicks Foundation is a city-based charity whose aim is to provide footballrelated activities for ill, bereaved and

Le Tour has lots of local businesses supporting it but there’s never enough money that can be raised for a good cause, so be sure to throw your change into one of their buckets when you see the crew fundraising at various places in the coming weeks. For more information visit www.letourfreekicks.co.uk www.espmag.co.uk

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We all love our pets and think ours is the cutest!

As April is National Pet Month we're on the hunt for the Prettiest Pet in Peterborough!

ESP has partnered up with Brotherhood Shopping Park for our search and we’re looking for dogs, cats, fish, ponies, guinea pigs and any other pet who could be crowned Peterborough's Prettiest Pet 2015.

The winner and their owner will win a fantastic prize package containing many treats as well as pet photography sessions and pictures!

HOW TO ENTER: Entries are open from April 1 – 19 for you to submit piccies of your pets – you can enter as many of your pets as you wish!

To submit your pet into the competition, you’ll need to send a picture of your pet by doing one of the following: • Post your picture to the Brotherhood Shopping Park Facebook page • Tweet your picture to @BrotherhoodShop • Upload your picture to the website (open from 1st April) www.brotherhoodshopping.co.uk

The top 10 prettiest pets will then be selected and appear in ESP's May edition, plus on the Brotherhood Shopping Park Facebook Page for the public to pick Peterborough's Prettiest Pet 2015!

The votes between ESP Magazine and the Brotherhood Facebook page will be combined to pick the winner.

Please note: You don’t have to take your pet to Brotherhood Shopping Park to enter the competition.

The competition closes for entries at Midnight on April 19, 2015.

For full terms & conditions, please visit www.brotherhoodshopping.co.uk

And the winner is…

Our Fifty Shades of Fun competition was a huge success as we gave away 50 fabulous prizes in our biggest competition yet!

Shirley Hudson from Whittlesey was our lucky winner whose name was independently drawn from our many entries by the team at Sycamore Mini.

Photo: Chris Brudenell

Shirley, who is disabled, couldn’t believe her luck when ESP popped round with the team from MINI to drop off bags of prizes and told us she plans to share many of her goodies with friends, family and some of her carers. What a generous lady!

We had some great prizes up for grabs which included the use of a MINI Countryman for a family day out at Woburn Safari Park kindly donated by Sycamore MINI, Wella haircare products from Melanie Richards Hair Boutique, beauty treatments at Bella Mia, a meal for four at the Peterborough Greyhound Stadium, a VIP night out at Halo, his and hers massages at Serenity Loves, tickets to a concert at Live @ the Academy, along with other prizes from the Dog in a Doublet, D7 Nails & Beauty, The Solstice, FAZE4 (Moore & Scrupps), Boome Hair & Beauty and Rumours Online.

Lucky winner Shirley

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Thanks to all the businesses who supported us.

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Market Deeping war veteran Cassidy Little is celebrating winning the first ever People’s Strictly dance competition.

Sharon McAllister meets the guy with the trophy…

assidy Little has the most inappropriate surname – he’s a big bold guy, tall and full of personality.

He makes an entrance and gives a bone crushing handshake – well you’d expect nothing less from a Royal Marine – but dancing a Paso Doble on Strictly, that’s probably not what you’d expect.

Cassidy has been partying and frankly we don’t blame him! It seems everyone in Market Deeping (and beyond) is keen to shake his hand (watch out for that grip folks!) and want to celebrate his amazing achievement.

He’s minus the fake tan and hairspray but is still every inch the winner we expected to meet. Frank and down to earth with that distinct Canadian/Marine upbeat outlook on life, it’s clear to see how he’s managed to turn a life changing incident into a whole new path in life.

Hero Cassidy Little

Photos: Andy Vernum @ Studio One

The People’s

When he lost the lower half of his right leg and suffered other serious injuries when an IED blew up in Afghanistan, he might’ve joked that his ‘dancing days were over’ but who knew four years later that would be far from the case and he’d be clutching a Strictly Glitterball Trophy.

We just knew that our local guy would be the winner – it’s that vibe he gives out that makes him an engaging person to be around and chat to. A vibe that other Marines in rehab said helped get them through the trauma, although he’s not keen to accept any special praise.

“One of the clauses in the Royal Marines is ‘cheerfulness in the face of adversity’, that’s one of the reasons the training is so hard. If you can’t laugh when your chips are down, and I mean really down – there are a lot of people in this world who have no idea what it’s like being at the very bottom of the barrel – if you can’t laugh when you’re down there, you can’t be a Royal Marine Commando. Any Marine would act the same way I did.”

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got one leg and in a dance competition what does that say? She came in with an open mind which is more than I can say for most people who see me in a pair of shorts. She is an incredible human being.”

Cassidy wasn’t fazed by being ‘Strictly-fied’ and preened to perfection – “Royal Marines are aggressively encouraged to maintain a very high standard of basic hygiene. In basic training it’s not uncommon to shower five times a day.”

Photo: BBC/Guy Levy

Although he says actually being at the Strictly studios isn’t how it looks on the TV, the people on the show are – “Tess is amazing and Claudia’s sense of humour – she’s a lunatic – I love her.

But even the people behind the camera are incredible. It’s a huge machine.”

Even the famously harsh critic Craig Revel Horwood was very positive when he assessed Cassidy’s routine.

“No matter where I went in the world with the Royal Marines or otherwise, it’s always been my home. All my Christmas shopping has been done in Stamford or Peterborough. I had my quasi stag do in Peterborough on like a Monday night in O’Neills and obviously into Angels. So I’ve watched Peterborough grow – and seen its trials and tribulations. I love Peterborough.”

The people of Market Deeping were struck hard when their local Canadian resident got blown up and was in a coma for two weeks. People there have supported him ever since, backing him when he performed in The Two Worlds of Charlie F, a play featuring injured servicemen, and when he proudly brandished the Olympic Torch during the relay through the city in 2012. When it was revealed he was to appear in Strictly banners of support went up around the town. Cassidy is clearly touched by the sense of community he’s witnessed – “I love it. I’m very loyal to that town.”

He’s equally self deprecating about being picked to appear in The People’s Strictly which also saw five other contestants prove there really are some amazing people out there who’ve overcome terrible odds to turn theirs, and other people’s, lives around.

“They’re very inspiring and the truth is I haven’t done anything particularly special. Sure I went to war and fought for the country – but a lot of people do that. You could say, well you lost your leg – there’s a lot of people who lose more than that out in Afghanistan. I just don’t feel in any way shape or form that anything I’ve done comes close to what the other people have achieved in this situation.”

All the contestants gave amazing performances, beating their nerves and performing on that famous ballroom in front of millions. It was Cassidy and his dance partner Natalie Lowe who triumphed though with a stunning Paso Doble.

It’s a tough dance for anyone, full of passion and drama and was a pretty daunting task for Cassidy to master the steps with his prosthetic leg, eventually swapping to his ‘blade’ which gave him better manoeuvrability.

“Truth is, I’m a get in the river and see where it goes kinda guy. I do not think for one second about the waterfalls I’ve got to go down along the way. When they offered it to me I thought – whoah this is going to be really, really hard work… OK let’s do it!”

It certainly took hard work in training to master the dance and his nerves – so how did this Lance Corporal take to being told what to do by the lovely Natalie Lowe?

“I have absolutely no problem being ordered around by beautiful women…” he says wryly.

“She’s incredibly beautiful, an incredibly good dancer, amazingly patient. Someone eventually had to tell Natalie that her dance partner’s only

Photo: Comic Relief/Tom Dymond

“The other guys who were in the competition with me were phenomenal human beings,” says Cassidy.

“Craig was lovely. He was incredibly supportive of Natalie and I – she was buzzing for days afterwards, she couldn’t believe we’d had such positive feedback.”

Cassidy says he’ll now keep his dancing skills to just him and his wife Laura and is on the look out for some local ballroom classes. He still spends time in front of the camera though, in acting roles and reporting for the British Forces Broadcasting Service, but his dream job is actually to be a late night talk show host so move over Jonathan Ross!

“I know that sounds so ridiculous but hey somebody wanted to fly, somebody wanted to go to the moon, I want a talk show! I want David Letterman’s job, that style of fun. We see what’s going on in the news, bring on some awesome celebrities – that’s what I’d like to do.”

Originally Cassidy came to the UK to be a stand up comedian (he’s lost none of the humour) but it was meeting his wife that led him to call Market Deeping home and the people there have taken him to their heart.

Talking to him it’s clear he’s a fighter – the victim mentality is something he despises – and his optimistic outlook is inspiring.

“I would’ve liked to stay in the Royal Marines,” he confesses, “and I had aspirations to go on to do other things in that world but I’m not that bothered about the injuries. I’ve got my head around that now. I get frustrated from time to time.

“I think it’s more unfortunate that people died – that still breaks my heart. I still think about those guys who didn’t come back from that explosion, but I can’t regret it because that somehow takes away the honour of their deaths.”

As Cassidy says – “No door opens unless you knock” – he’s already filmed a guest lead part in daytime TV show Doctors, so we now await his late night talk show, which if he sets his sights on it, is highly likely to happen!

www.espmag.co.uk

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CARLUCCIO’S EASTER BISCUIT DECORATING The lovely people at Carluccio’s Restaurant in Peterborough are hosting a creatively fun time for children in the shape of biscuit decorating classes!

The event will be taking place on Wednesday April 8 at 10.30am.

The cost is £10 per child and for more info visit www.carluccios.com/events/kids-easter-biscuits-decorating.

EASTER SUNDAY LUNCH @ THE BULL Easter’s a great time to catch up with family so why not meet up for Easter Sunday Lunch?

The Bull Hotel in Westgate’s offering a delicious 3 course lunch in the Brasserie Restaurant. Bookings are from 12 noon till 2.30pm so you can sleep it off afterwards!

HANDMADE BURGER CO. OPENING SOON

It’s £24.50 per adult and £14.95 per child under 10. Book now on 01733 561364.

Builders have been working hard to convert the former Old Still pub in the Westgate Arcade into an eagerly anticipated new restaurant.

CAFÉ CLARKES’ SPRING MENU

The Handmade Burger Co. will hopefully be opening around the end of this month and marks the 23rd restaurant in the firm’s steadily expanding chain.

This family-owned and run restaurant brand source the best quality produce from the best British farmers and has a fresh food philosophy.

They’re famous for their burgers which are handmade in the restaurants every day from traditionally reared, grass fed, 100% fully traceable prime Scottish beef and come in over 40 varieties.

Sounds mouthwatering! We’ll keep you posted on progress, but not long to go folks!

Café Clarkes at the Key Theatre has introduced a mouth-watering spring time menu. This modern, fresh and open spaced restaurant, source their produce locally where possible and this is reflected in the flavours of the dishes. So what can you expect from their delicious Café spring menu? Delicacies such as scotch eggs with sage mayo are extremely popular as are their bar boards, which make a perfect snack to share whilst enjoying a cheeky glass of wine.

Call 01733 561465 to book.

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A new season means time to freshen up the wardrobe and a fresh dilemma about what to choose. ESP’s style guru Sue Donnelly has it all in hand girls...

Sue Donnelly

It’s that time of year when the weather doesn't really know what it’s supposed to do. One day it’s sunny, the next wet and gloomy so here are some suggestions to tide you over and help you get the wardrobe spring clean in full flow.

Sheer Black Tights Yep. They are the new nude. The new opaque. 10 denier, maybe 15 if you’re a little hesitant. If you’re anything like me, you’ll have laddered them before you’ve even pulled them up but it’s got to be a better choice than bare flesh. M&S ones may seem an easy option as they are ladder resist but you’ll still need to groom as vigorously as if you were bare legged. Sheer tights are unforgiving, even in black. You can wear with a heel but the modern, fresh look incorporates ankle boots or flats.

Colourful Bag An easy and uplifting way to bring sunshine into your closet and your life. If you can’t face the thought of a brightly coloured bag, choose one with a colourful lining. Alternatively, a new Blue bag, purse might do the trick.

NEWLOOK £15.00

Shoes

Metal is the new black.

Whether a flat or a heel, the entire shoe or just a dash, metal works well with deep colours, white and pastels – all of which will be in the shops soon. They also pair up well with the sheer black tights, probably more so than with nude, and with bare legs (later in the year).

Metallic Strappy Heel, WALLIS, £35

Spring Coat Warm and light are your key considerations. You need it loose enough to fit other clothing underneath but not so baggy it loses its (and your) shape. Look for a length that covers hemlines in dresses and skirts.

Sweatshirt Red Mac, M&S COLLECTION £45

Not only for the gym, this is the updated knit of the season. Buy it baggy enough to add a thin layer underneath so you stay warm but check out the new way of wearing – with a blouse!

Denim It’s everywhere this season. Dresses, jumpsuits, skirts, jackets – you name it, you’ll find it. However, if you want to update your look don’t buy skinny jeans. I know we’ve read it many times before but this time they really are on their way out. The new jeans are either flared or boot cut. None of which can be worn in the same way as skinny. You need a heel. Either a stiletto or a platform, otherwise you’ll have a larger bottom, shorter legs and fabric dragging all over the floor. These also need to be higher waisted than you might be used to. The eighties look is back!

Green Suede Wrap Skirt, DOROTHY PERKINS £80

Suede

Midwash Denim Tie Front Shirt Dress, MISS SELFRIDGE £39

This hasn’t been the centre of attention for a while but it’s back with a vengeance. This seems especially good for those of you with warm colouring.

Many of the shops are stocking suede items in mustard, olive green, tan and all shades of brown.

Pattern A wardrobe with too much pattern is a difficult one to manage. One without any at all can be boring. Pattern is like colour in so much as it says ‘spring is here’. Rounded or abstract patterns look great on curvier bodies while stripes suit a straighter one.

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Denim Buttoned Shirt Dress, DOROTHY PERKINS £28

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Easter Fun at Pigeons farm!

Bottle-feeding lambs, tractor and trailer rides, baby piglets, bunnies and guinea pigs, chicks, egg collecting and lots of play.

Mar 28-Apr 6 Easter egg hunts, quiz,baby lambs.

March 31 Pretty Pottery-storyteller and paint Easter eggs April 6 RSPB crafts.

April 7 Pottery painting and storytelling.

Book your Birthday parties now!

Photo: Jose Tio

the

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thing

Mikey Clarke IntervIews JaCk Padgett – a Male Model froM Peterborough destIned to be the next bIg thIng! Was everything really so positive? After all, I’ve heard in the past that modelling can be a catty industry. “It’s not at all,” Jack said. “In my personal experience, all the models get along.

When I was starting out, people warned me that models were constantly in competition with each other and that it would be intense, but that’s not been the case. We all have a laugh and it’s been a really pleasant experience.”

d

uring a recent trip to the ESP headquarters, I noticed there were several nore of females lurking around than usual. No, they weren’t there to see me – but to get a sneak peek at the man I was interviewing.

I had the pleasure of speaking to Jack Padgett – a male model from Peterborough. Strutting the catwalk for designers such as Calvin Klein, Moschino and Brioni in London and Milan, you wouldn’t believe that Jack only entered the modelling industry five months ago!

How did it happen? During our chat he explained, “Last November I was at Peterborough train station, when a scout from Nevs Modelling Agency approached me and asked me to see the guys over at the office. I went and they didn’t want me to leave.”

Jack – whose top 3 grooming products are his beach matt hair products, hairspray and moisturiser – had often thought about modelling. “People regularly said to me that I should do it,” he said. “And others had mentioned that I have the features to do it. I just wasn’t sure if the modelling agencies would agree.” Luckily they did – and have completely changed his life. Jack told me, “Life is a lot better nowadays. Getting up in the mornings and doing modelling beats ‘proper’ work. I’m really happy and I just hope things stay like this.”

The highlight for the local model was flying out to Milan just a week after his London shows.

“It was a great experience. The flight out to Milan was full of models – around 150 of them. I made a lot of friends and see many of them at castings.”

Jack, who’s a former Stanground College student and used to be a lifeguard for Vivacity at the Regional, can often be seen in and around Peterborough.

You might spot him working out at Premier Fitness – now there’s an incentive to get fit girls! “I’m regularly in a gym or at the cinema. I’m trying to not go out to the clubs as much these days, but that doesn’t tend to go as planned.” But will he be around for much longer, or will the world of modelling take him elsewhere? “I have no idea what’s going to happen,” he said.

“I’ve only been doing this for a short amount of time and opportunities such as going to Milan have happened. I just hope things continue the way they’ve been during the last few months.”

And I couldn’t let Jack leave without asking for some advice on getting into the industry. I like a kebab too much to do it myself, but maybe there’s hope for you! “A way into the industry is to send your photos to an agency, but I don’t know much about that.

It’s difficult for me to offer advice as I happened to be at the right place at the right time. I was lucky to be at Peterborough train station whilst a scout

was on the lookout. If you look the part, hopefully you’ll be lucky too.”

After the interview, Jack was kind enough to teach me how to do the catwalk like a pro. Visit www.espmag.co.uk to watch the footage.

Follow the Peterborough model on Twitter (@jackpadgett) and Instagram (instapadge) for his latest adventures and regular picture posts – which my wife describes as ‘easy on the eyes’. Hmmmm.

Mikey and Jack doing their best ‘Zoolander’

Oi!

If you think you’ve got the looks make sure you’re out an about in and around Peterborough on April 10 and 11 as scouts from Nevs Model Agency are coming to the area on the search for more fresh faces to sign up! @nevsmodels

www.espmag.co.uk

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paparazziCau Mike Harris captures the fun at the Annaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hope fundraising night at the Rose & Crown, Thorney

The Serenity Loves 3rd Birthday party at Radius, captured

by Mike Harris

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aught in the act?

The Solstice celebrates its 18th Birthday with Mike Harris behind the lens

Now open The Eden Bar and welcoming back House Proud this Bank Holiday weekend

For the latest information, follow us on:

@solsticepub The Solstice Pub www.espmag.co.uk

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S

uccess seems to be coming frighteningly fast for this Canadian singer who’s packed out shows at Australia’s Future Music Festival, had a sell out European tour and most recently staged her first headline tour right here in the UK. With a distinctive look and sound Kiesza (pronounced Kaiser) has brought something new to the table which hasn’t gone unrecognised. Her songs cross genres from house and dance through to emotive ballads showcasing her incredible vocals.

She’s a girl of many talents including song writing for other artists such as Rihanna, as well as herself, and playing a variety of instruments, but she’s not just a pretty face and a damn good performer.

She’s trained in ballet and dance, sails tall ships and as a teenager did a stint in the Navy! That’s not something you see in most pop stars’ biographies so it’s no surprise it attracts attention.

Her live performances showcase her versatility incorporating her love of dance with her diverse range of songs moving from heavy upbeat dance tunes to ballads where she plays piano.

“It’s an interesting twist I think!” admits Kiesza. “People are just really curious about it wondering what made me want to be in the military and then how did I get from the military to being a musician. I think I’ve had a lot of drastic transitions in my life!

“Every show’s a little bit different, it has choreography but I’m very spontaneous on stage so you don’t always know what to expect… I always end up surprising myself!”

“The military really came from my passion for being a sailor, sailing tall ships, teaching sailing and racing. It was a job that was sea orientated that I would fit really nicely into. I just found that the higher system of the military was not really fitting for my personality. I excelled and did well at my job but I had frustrations that went with me being an artistic person and wanting to find a different way of doing things – in the military you don’t ask question you do what you’re told.”

So with that background I wonder if she’s a handy girl to have around…

“I’m good at fixing things,” she laughs, “but then my dad was a carpenter. I just naturally can be a handy woman when I need to be.”

And with military training does that mean she’s one girl not to mess with?

“Oh, I’m pretty soft, I’m pretty friendly.”

Kiesza did have the chance to train as a sniper, but didn’t take it – “I never wanted to shoot people!”

I catch up with her after a sound check on her headline UK tour just before her gig in Leeds. She’s had a busy day but is high on the buzz of performing.

“The shows themselves are so much fun it definitely doesn’t feel like work. I’m really enjoying it. One of my favourite things to do is to perform so I’m loving it.”

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Kiesza www.espmag.co.uk

Her forthcoming single Sound of a Woman, the AKA Orange Remix, yet again shows another side to her talents – a beat-laden, hand-raising anthem with an emotive edge.

“It’s such an emotional song, it’s very personal,” she tells me. “I feel like a lot of women will relate to the song. I love it because it’s really epic, with big production.”

Her debut album, also titled Sound of a Woman was released at the end of last year and includes her previous singles No Enemiesz and Giant in My Heart.

She’s in demand to work with other artists, most recently being summoned by 80’s legends Duran Duran to feature on one of their songs!

“It’s a song for their album,” she explains. “Simon (Le Bon) the lead singer heard my song Hideaway when he was working out at the gym and really liked it and asked if I’d sing on a song of theirs. Of course it’s Duran Duran, I couldn’t say no!

They like made the 80s what it was.

It was amazing working with them.”

Her look is as distinctive as her vocals with intricately styled red hair – “I do it in about 15 minutes depending on what version I’m doing. It takes about 45 minutes for the more elaborate version” – pale complexion often teamed with bright red lips and a stylish fashion sense.

Attention is becoming firmly focussed on her and if 2014 was her debut, this is set to be her big year!

“It’s festival season coming up in the summer – that’s going to be fun performing in front of these humongous crowds, but I’m also excited to be getting into the studio a little bit, maybe coming up with ideas for the second album.”

Keiza’s new single Sound of a Woman – AKA Orange Remix is out on May 10. www.kiesza.com

Photo: BBC/Ray Burmiston

After the amazing success of her debut No. 1 hit Hideaway, one of the biggest selling singles of 2014, there’s little chance of Kiesza staying hidden much longer and with her fantastic anthemic new single Sound of a Woman she’s being thrown right back into the spotlight. Sharon McAllister grabs a word…

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Released Movie Previews

AVENGERS: AGE OF ULTRON

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Cast: Robert Downey Jr, Chris Evans, Mark Ruffalo, Chris Hemsworth Director: Joss Whedon After the sensational box office success of Marvel’s inaugural Avengers film in 2012 – which amassed more than $1.5billion worldwide – director Joss Whedon’s sequel is expected to similarly break the bank.

Release dates were correct at time going to press but could be subject to change.

When Tony Stark (Robert Downey Jr) tries to jumpstart a dormant peacekeeping program, things go awry and it’s up to the The Avengers – including Captain America (Chris Evans), Hulk (Mark

Ruffalo) and Thor (Chris Hemsworth) – to stop the villainous super-powered robot Ultron (voiced by James Spader) from enacting his terrible plans.

New entries to the superhero group include siblings, (by the end of the film at least) the lightning-fast Quicksilver and hex-wielding Scarlet Witch (played by Godzilla co-stars Aaron Taylor-Johnson and Elizabeth Olsen respectively), along with energy-absorbing

FAST & FURIOUS 7 The Fast and Furious team will hopefully give much-loved star Paul Walker the send-off he deserves – after his tragic death in November 2013.

His passing led to the production being delayed by nearly a year after he died mid-shoot, which left the producers with the headache of completing the scenes of Walker’s Brian O’Conner – via computergenerated imagery and his brothers as stunt-doubles – while giving him a fan-placating exit.

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synthetic android Vision (voiced by Paul Bettany).

Black Widow (Scarlett Johansson), Hawkeye (Jeremy Renner) and Nick Fury (Samuel L Jackson) all return to the blockbuster juggernaut – which is rumoured to have cameos from Falcon (Anthony Mackie), War Machine (Don Cheadle), Loki (Tom Hiddleston) and Heimdall (Idris Elba) for those mouthwatering ‘fanboy’ moments...

Released

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This time Dom Torretto (Vin Diesel) and his crew – including rock-hard agent Luke Hobbs (Dwayne Johnson) – are being hunted by the deadly brother of Owen Shaw (who they killed in the last film), Deckard (Jason Statham), who is trying to kill off the team one by one.

The Expendables 3’s UFC fighter Ronda Rousey and screen veteran Kurt Russell join the fray, along with Tokyo Drift’s lead Lucas Black...

CHILD 44 There’s a lot of positivity being thrown the way of this intriguing politically-charged serial killer thriller set in a 1953 Stalin era Soviet Russia – complete with star-studded cast.

Based on the first of a trilogy of novels by Tom Rob Smith, Child 44 chronicles the crisis of conscience for idealistic secret police agent Leo Demidov (Brit star Tom Hardy), who loses status, power and his home, when he refuses to denounce his

17 wife Raisa (Prometheus’ Noomi Rapace) as a traitor.

Exiled from Moscow to a grim provincial outpost, the husband and wife team join forces with Gary Oldman’s General Nesterov to track down a serial killer who preys on young boys – much to the chagrin of Leo’s psychopathic rival (Robocop’s Joel Kinnaman) who claims such a crime can’t exist in a country like the Soviet Union.

Released

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THE WATER DIVINER Russell Crowe makes his big-screen directorial debut in this war-drama, which he also stars in as an Australian man who travels to Turkey after the Battle of Gallipoli to try and locate his three missing sons – and also finds companionship with Olga Kurylenko’s (Oblivion) Istanbul hotel manager. Co-stars A Good Day to Die Hard’s Jai Courtney.

Released

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10 WOMAN IN GOLD Helen Mirren stars in this remarkable true story of a former-Jewish refugee’s quest to reclaim her heritage – including priceless artwork seized by the Nazis – and seek justice for what happened to her family, sixty years after she fled Vienna during World War II. Ryan Reynolds stars as the plucky young lawyer who battles her emotional case.

Released

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10 JOHN WICK Keanu Reeves reportedly puts in his best performance since The Matrix as an exHitman who comes out of retirement to track down the gangsters who beat him up and killed his dog – which was a gift from his dying wife. Willem Dafoe and Adrianne Palicki co-star in this well-reviewed stylish thriller, which has already had the green light for a sequel.

Released

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17 A LITTLE CHAOS Alan Rickman directs only the second movie of his career with this period romanticdrama, which sees a female gardener (Kate Winslet) awarded the esteemed assignment to construct the grand gardens of King Louis XIV (Rickman) at Versailles – and then finds herself drawn to famous architect Le Notre (Suite Francaise’s Matthias Schoenaerts).

Released

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17 PAUL BLART: MALL COP 2 The first film – which was a surprising box-office success – has probably been the pinnacle of Kevin James’ Hollywood career, and now he returns for the inevitable sequel as the workaholic mall cop takes a well-deserved Las Vegas vacation with his teenage daughter. But when he discovers a heist, it’s up to Blart to apprehend the criminals.

Released

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FAR FROM THE MADDING CROWD British actress Carey Mulligan (The Great Gatsby) leads in this timeless love story as an independently headstrong young woman, who attracts three different suitors: a captivating sheep farmer (Matthias ‘I’m in every love story at the moment’ Schoenaerts), a reckless Sergeant (Tom Sturridge) and a prosperous bachelor (Michael Sheen).

FINAL FANTASY TYPE-0 HD (XONE/PS4)

Final Fantasy games haven’t always fitted the western market – but this is undoubtedly the most accessible adventure yet.

The franchise has gone back to the start by igniting a new era – before the arrival of Final Fantasy XV – with a grittier, more fast-paced, strategic tone, as the world of Orience is brought to life in (generally) vivid HD detail.

With the ability to choose from 14 playable members of a young combat troupe, Class Zero – as a turbulent war of nations threatens to tear the land apart – this is, for the most part, compelling stuff.

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It is intermittently let down by some bland backgrounds and poor camerawork, but with an emotive storyline and at least 30 hours of gameplay this offers a good entry level for newbies – and enough Final Fantasy for fans.

RESIDENT EVIL: REVELATIONS 2 (PS4/XONE/PS3/360/PC)

This retail box set competently extends Resident Evil lore – without ever reaching the heights of some of the series’ great games.

It meshes together four episodic games (already released via XBLA and PSN over the past month) – including two bonus side episodes and Raid shooting gallery mini-game – with varying degrees of success, undoubtedly at its best when fan favourite Claire Redfield faces the horrors of her past, this time with new enemies ready to terrify.

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While the cliff-hangers after each episode leave you wanting more, the final couple of stories sadly seem clunky compared to the intensity of the noteworthy stealth-inspired first two.

But you still get plenty of bang for your survival horror buck at around 30 quid as the series evolves instead of revolves.

DMC: DEVIL MAY CRY – DEFINITIVE EDITION (XONE/PS4)

Revamping a popular series is always a risk, but Capcom’s take on the DMC universe was a resounding success – now enhanced for next-gen consoles.

As adventure series stalwart Dante (now a younger half-angel, half-demon) you’ll trip between reality and the stunning-looking Limbo City in a bid to free the human race from the tyranny of a demon king, and with the addition of Vergil’s Downfall campaign – this definitive package is given that extra gloss.

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Despite the odd audio syncing problem, a top-notch combo system gleefully inspires hacking and slashing through a compelling 12-hour plus campaign with an added 60FPS sheen – that will leave hardcore fans and newcomers alike to gleefully raise hell.

DEAD OR ALIVE 5: LAST ROUND (PS4/XONE)

One of gaming’s finest fighting franchises is brought to next-gen consoles in superb fashion – with the most graphically striking version yet.

It might only have incremental advancements from the 2012 versions, but this 1080P high resolution and 60FPS iteration of the Dead or Alive 5 series is the most polished incarnation yet – with the biggest roster (two new additions bring it to 34) in the series’ history.

A few glitches do hamper the gaming experience across some platforms, but this is without doubt the best game in the franchise to date and – even with the odd flaw – is well worth taking to the last round with oodles of fan service.

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DRAGONBALL XENOVERSE (PS4/XONE/PS3/X360)

This provides a satisfying blast to the past as Dragonball Z is revamped from its late eighties/early nineties manga anime roots.

If you can remember the time when the likes of Street Fighter 2 and Fatal Fury properly launched fighting games on the Super Nintendo/Mega Drive, then you’ll appreciate this new 3D incarnation, which fans will lap up.

But if you’re not privy to Akira Toriyama’s Japanese-influenced universe – in which you partake in frenzied battles via multiple modes with a whole host of combatants – then you may struggle to get the most out of this.

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For one-on-one fighting enthusiasts though – there’s still plenty of fire left in this series.

DYNASTY WARRIORS 8: EMPIRES (XONE/PS4)

There’s been a flurry of Far East-inspired games hitting the market recently (see above) – but this one is surely for fans of the series alone.

This umpteenth iteration of the Dynasty Warriors series offers a massive roster of 80-plus characters and attention-to-detail customisation – but the ‘seen-it-all-before’ strategic meets hack ‘n’ slash gameplay ultimately gets repetitive very quickly. There’s no denying the impressive production values as you fight across Ancient China’s battle-laden wastelands, but there’s just a bit too much recycling in this gaming dynasty – which badly needs to evolve.

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ON YOUR BIKE!

KICK-START YOUR SPRING FITNESS @ THE REGIONAL WITH GREAT DEAL If you’re already looking forward to your hols you should maybe kick-start that spring fitness campaign you keep promising yourself you’re going to do!

When’s the last time you checked out the Regional Gym? There’s so much on offer at the Regional Fitness & Swimming Centre this April, plus it’s right in the heart of the city with free parking so no excuses for not squeezing in a little healthy time during your lunch hour!

This summer, why not make the most of the great outdoors, get fit and help a good cause along the way. The Peterborough Bike Ride is taking place on Sunday July 5 in aid of The British Heart Foundation. There is a choice of four routes starting at Ferry Meadows and then onto open country roads with a route that meanders through several picturesque villages. Take in the sights and sounds of the countryside as you cycle your chosen route and there are plenty of places along the way to stop for lunch or refreshments Now in its 13th year, the Peterborough Bike Ride attracts a fantastic crowd of supporters from across the country.

Get involved, sign up now, and start getting sponsored for what is a highlight of the Peterborough cycling calendar!

To register and for more info visit www.bikeridepeterborough-bhf.co.uk Anna Ruggiero

You can also get 30 days membership for just £30 this month and there’s NO joining fee if you sign up before April 30 – how good is that?! There’s lots of good stuff too including: • Newly extended gym floor – now 50% bigger • Modern and spacious gym with panoramic views of the city • 25m swimming pool, children’s teaching pool and separate diving area • Nordic sauna and steam room with relaxation area • Bespoke spin and exercise studios

• Ample free parking

MEGACYCLE AT FERRY MEADOWS!

• PLUS FREE access to the Lido ALL summer!

The Shine Megacycle looks set to be a day of fun, fitness and festivities!

You’ll get a complete fitness membership with swimming, use of the first-class gym, access to the sauna & steam room and all classes included in the membership.

Launched by Shine, the exciting new bike ride takes place on Saturday July 4 and will be held at Ferry Meadows. The aim of the day is to raise money to support people living with spina bifida and hydrocephalus.

There’s the latest cardio and weights equipment in the gym for a fun and effective workout plus over 50 fitness classes every week from Aquafit to Zumba and the new and exclusive Les Mills® sessions.

The ride is open for people of all abilities and ages starting at Poppy Meadow, near the Watersports Centre, followed by a summer festival of entertainment at Oak Meadow, which will include music, games, stalls and displays from local community groups.

• Over 50 fitness classes every week • 10% off all Radiance beauty treatments

It’s open Monday-Wednesday 6.30am-10pm, Thursday-Friday 6.30am-9pm and Saturday-Sunday 8am-6pm so there’s plenty of flexibility.

Call 01733 864000 or email regionalpool@vivacity-peterborough.com to take a tour today!

For more info go to www.shinemegacycle.org.uk and we’ll keep you posted.

Anna Ruggiero

The Dragon

The Ploughman

• Weekly Live Music (see Gig Guide) • Live Sports (showing all major premiership/championship games) • 6 Real Ale hand pumps • Darts – Poker – Pool – Crib • Free pool on Tuesdays • Real ales from £2.60 a pint • Available for corporate and daytime functions

• CAMRA Pub of the Year 2011 • CAMRA pub of the year 2014 * • Sky Sports showing all major premiership/championship games • Visit our website at www.theploughman-werrington.co.uk • Happy hour Mon – Fri, 5 ‘til 7pm • Live entertainment – see ESP Gig Guide • Karaoke every Sunday with Mighty Mouth Trev • Join our Facebook group The Ploughman

Hodgson Avenue, Werrington Tel: 01733 578088

Staniland Way, Werrington Tel: 01733 327696

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Proudly sponsored by

pep.cipriano@espmag.co.uk

WHEELS MOTORCYCLES First Drove, Fengate, Peterborough PE1 5BJ Tel: 01733 358555 www.wheelsmotorcycles.co.uk

!

N IO L IL M A IN E ON IS Y D A L K IN P ’S JULIE y. Apart from having the Julie Church isn’t your average lad m of mine, Julie spends pleasure of being an old school chu of another special lady… her working days behind the wheel ‘The Pink Lady’ is Julie’s pride and joy and has been since October last year when Solstor UK Limited went into partnership with the Pink Ribbon Foundation to unveil the livery on this beauty. Julie drives her magnificent Mercedes Actros around the country delivering fresh produce and one thing’s for sure, there’s no other like it on our roads.

Julie told me: “It attracts lots of attention and I can tell you it’s the only one of its kind in the UK. There’s an estimated one million trucks on our roads but this Pink Lady is unique. She’s very eye catching and I often get other motorists bibbing their horn out of appreciation of her. It makes me feel very proud.

Photos: Andrew James Photography

“The truck is amazing to drive. It's the latest Euro 6 Mercedes Actros, which is brimming with the most upto-date mod cons and this makes it easier to drive.

They’re all automatic now, so you just put it in drive and away you go!”

It’s refreshing to see a woman enjoying a job that’s historically been stereotyped by middle aged rotund men with greasy hair and egg stained vests. Julie brings glam to trucking and both she and the Pink Lady are a refreshing sight on Britain’s roads and truck-stops.

So are people surprised to see a woman climb out of the cab? Yes, of course they are. “The majority of people are surprised but the reaction from male HGV drivers is always positive. Yes, there’s always going to

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be the debate on what sex is the better driver but there’s good and bad in both.

“My work colleagues are a great bunch and I've met some lovely drivers from other companies. You see the same faces in a lot of places we deliver to and I'm just another driver like them – one of the boys in the tea room.”

Admittedly, I never had Julie down at school as one day being a lorry driver but then neither did she. Julie’s had a career behind the wheel for 14 years, starting out as a parts delivery driver and then working for commercial dealerships in Peterborough where she was around trucks every day.

“That’s when my interest in trucks started and I decided I wanted to do my HGV. I trained for my licence and passed first time and don't think I'd do anything else now. I may drive a Renault Clio out of work but I'd rather have the Pink Lady on my drive. It’ll certainly make the school run interesting. Especially if I lost the keys for it – let’s just say people who know me could tell a story or two about my keys!”

Thankfully, fans of Julie’s Pink Lady needn’t worry about keys if they want to get their hands on the truck.

A scale model version of it will be available in 2016 and a percentage of each one sold will be donated to the Pink Ribbon Foundation.

In the meantime Keep on Truckin’ Julie!

Julie Church

45 Years Experience

Pep Cipriano THE MOTORCYCLE WORKS LTD Anything motorcycle is what we do!

HAVE YOUR SAY ON CBT IMPROVEMENTS The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency is inviting riders and instructors to have their say on how CBT (compulsory basic training) is run and regulated.

A consultation is open until April 21 and the DVSA is inviting comments for proposals to improve CBT for younger learners. Plans being considered cover three areas: • The structure and content of CBT courses • The qualification process for instructors • The standards checks for instructors, which assess their ability to teach pupils I certainly remember my CBT with CAM Rider being an intense day where there’s lots to fit in – it was actually on a Vespa from Wheels Motorcycles I got to ride as Man About Town! It’s probably an advantage for existing motorists but for young people with no road user experience it can be quite an exhausting and daunting occasion. It’ll be good to see the CBT split over two days.

GRAB BARGAIN GEAR @ WHEELS

13 Benedict Sq, Werrington, Peterborough, PE4 6GD Tel: 01733 578883 Mob: 07947 733234 www.themotorcycleworks.co.uk

• • • • •

MOT Testing Servicing Repairs Electrics Restorations

Rebores – Crankbuilding – Blast Cleaning – Tuning – Race Prep Re-Wiring – Alarms – Trackers Tyres & Fitting – Chain & Sprockets – Brake Servicing Batteries – Classic Restorations

For the very latest news and events

espmag .co.uk

Well if the warm weather has seen you pulling the bike out of the garage then now would be a great time to get yourself some new riding gear!

Wheels Motorcycles in Fengate will be holding a flash clothing sale weekend on April 11 and 12 so why not check it out and pick up some early season bargains.

The sale will include clothing and helmets from top name brands like Alpinestars, RST, Shoei, AGV and Shark as well as Oxford products and TCX. Be among the first to own some great 2015 products in this early new season sale!

The ULTIMATE Combat Gaming Experience Airsoft is a military simulation game similar to paintball. It costs a lot less to play, it hurts less and uses realistic looking replica weapons.

ELECTRIC CAR CHARGER USAGE AT QUEENSGATE TRIPLES Electric car owners have been making good use of Queensgate Shopping Centre’s electric vehicle charging points in the Green Clare car park where usage has tripled in the last 12 months.

As part of its dedication to sustainable travel and greener living Queensgate installed six car charging points at the end of 2013 and Smiths Nissan, who attended the launch of Queensgate’s electric vehicle charging service with its electric Nissan Leaf, has noted an increase in the number of people purchasing electric vehicles during the same time.

Use of EV charging points at Queensgate is free; shoppers simply park in the Green Clare car park and select a designated EV space.

Carol Wakelin, Environmental Manager at Queensgate, told ESP: “We are continuously striving to improve our eco footprint by introducing energy saving solutions such as efficient lighting throughout the car parks, water saving technologies and comprehensive recycling facilities for all of our retailers.

“Providing electric vehicle charging points was a brilliant step and we are thrilled that people are making use of them; the charging service is free so we hope this will encourage our shoppers to be a little greener whilst enjoying a day at the shops.”

Two unique sites and different styles of gaming.

Fight in and around buildings or in the woods and undergrowth.

The games run with two teams, each are given objectives which they have to try and achieve.

Competitive Prices Private, corporate and open days catered for.

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health

modern hair at melanie richards

and beauty

ESP’s Charlotte Jolly has all the latest health and beauty news…

charlotte.jolly@espmag.co.uk

new season treats I don't know about you but I always believe that a new season warrants a new treat and what better treat to enjoy than one that makes you look and feel good?!

This season is all about hot colour pops and punches of pastels. Here's my pick of the best new beauty buys out there.

If only I could have them all...

It's not just the weather that's hotting up, so is Bobbi Brown with their new Hot Collection. Bursting with colours to make your face pop, this collection is sure to brighten up your day.

My favourite is the Cheek Palette in Calypso. It features three layerable coral pink shades of blush – a neutral, a bright and a highlighter; a perfect palette to get a gorgeous glow.

MAC Isabel & Ruben Toledo collection also lends itself to bright, vibrant colours designed to inspire endless play. The Bellgreens eyeshadow x 6 is an eyeshadow palette in a colour wave of six green hues in a variety of textures, reminiscent of the green grass we all know and love spring for.

For those of you who are partial to pastels, get ready for spring with the new limited edition range of four Nails Inc polishes inspired by the beauty of blossom trees around the world. All of the new Blossom shades feature a unique blend of fine white particles which can be used alone for a pretty confetti effect or over a pale pastel shade for added petal power. At £15 each choose from Cherry Garden Street (apricot, hot pink and white), Bloomsbury Way (blue, candy floss pink and white), Covent Garden Mews (pale green and pale pink) or Columbia Road (pale green and pastel pink).

Peterborough boots gets beauty room

The Boots store in Queensgate has recently put the finishing touches to a brand new beauty room where customers can enjoy a cleanse, facial & makeover by their favourite beauty brand. I was lucky enough to be invited along to check it out...

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One of my longest beauty relationships has been with Clinique, having started using it at around the age of 16, so I opted for a skincare consultation, facial and makeover with the lovely Clinique Consultant Michaela.

Everyone lusts after luscious locks but what if your hair isn't quite the crowning glory you'd hoped for?

Well fear no more because The Nioxin Nioscope is here to help and available now at Melanie Richards Hair Boutique. This clever tool allows you to see your hair & scalp 200 times magnified, so you can really see what's going on at the root. This great gadget is a digital scalp magnifying camera, producing a clear, detailed picture of your scalp to help identify any concerns.

The small handheld microscope is placed on your scalp and instantly connects to the computer to take magnified pictures that ordinarily you wouldn't be able to see with the naked eye. This lets you and your hairdresser see up close and personal what's really going on at the scalp, such as clogged follicles, preventing new hair from growing.

The team at Melanie Richard's are Nioxin specialists, so once they've identified any scalp problems they can also advise you of a plan tailored to suit your individual needs, including which products and treatments to use. Each time you visit the salon you'll be able to view your before and after pictures to track your progress and see for yourself how the Nioxin range is producing results.

Michaela began by carrying out a Great Skin at Any Age consultation to understand my skin type. Using a tablet, I was asked dermatologist guided questions to determine what products would be right for me. This complimentary service was quick and easy, providing me with customfit recommendations! The results are saved on the tablet meaning you can go to any Clinique counter and they'll be able to find your skincare profile.

Once Michaela knew what my skin needed she showed me to the new Beauty Room for my facial. The room is spacious with a relaxing atmosphere, away from the hustle and bustle of the other shoppers.

The comfy beauty bed soon had me at ease, ready to enjoy my facial which involved Clinique's luxurious Moisture Surge Mask, followed by Smart Serum, Even Better Moisturiser spf 20 and All About Eye's Rich. My skin instantly felt

hydrated and healthy! This truly was a service to smile about.

Last but no means least was my full face makeover where Michaela transformed me from bare-faced to ready to face the world in no time. I opted for a soft, natural look with my favourite product of all being their new shade of Long Last Glosswear in Girls Night Out; a gorgeously glossy nude with a hint of shimmer.

It stayed put for hours, even after tasting the delights at the new Bill’s Restaurant over on Cathedral Square.

Many of you may not have been aware that Clinique offer a free range of services to anyone who visits their counters, so next time you're in Boots be sure to ask for yours and be sure to put their new Beauty Room to good use! P.S. There's even a Men's Only Service so guys there's no need to feel left out!

Dermalogica comes to Bella Mia! You can just pop in for a free chat with the therapists and sample some products, or for just £5 you can have a free 20 minute facial and consultation and if you do buy a product you can redeem the £5 off the price.

On the day there’ll be music and a blow dry bar where you can have a quick blow dry or a dry style.

Top skincare brand Dermalogica has arrived at Bella Mia and they’re holding a launch party to celebrate.

This new salon in Stanground continues to offer something truly different and has now become a Dermalogica salon specialising in the use of the sought-after skin care range.

Dermalogica is famed for its range of pure and natural but high quality treatments that are specifically tailored to help with every skin type and concern from teenage acne prone skin to anti aging and even a men’s range.

Bella Mia is celebrating the introduction of this new element of the business with an exciting launch day event on Saturday June 6 from 1.30pm – 4.30pm.

Dermalogica isn’t tested on animals, is non perfumed, has no colours and is used by professional skin therapists worldwide. They’re so confident you’ll be impressed by the results they even offer a money back guarantee.

When you book in with Rachel the fully trained Dermalogica specialist at Bella Mia you’ll receive free face mapping to analyse and diagnose your skin along with a consultation on your lifestyle. She will then provide a prescription sheet of products and you can try out some samples.

The products used during a Dermalogica facial, body treatment or massage are even more intense and give you a real boost so speak to the team to book in for an amazing skin experience.

Bella Mia, Unit 1A Bellona Drive, Stanground, PE2 8GP. Tel: 01733 308737. www.bellamiahairandbeauty.co.uk

Bridal, Bridesmaid, Evening & Prom Wear.

Wide selection of the latest designs. Sample sizes 8-30.

Shoes, Jewellery & Accessories.

Book your appointment today

/blush bridalco

19 North Street • Bourne • Lincolnshire PE10 9AE • Tel: 01778 218020 www.blushbridal.co | info@blushbridal.co

Karen Devine’s

WELL

karen.devine@espmag.co.uk

proudly sponsored by

BEING

Allergic or intolerant? Here’s some food for thought…

O

ver 15 years of my nutritional practice I’ve lost count of how many times I hear people saying they ‘think’ they have allergies to certain foods. If you have a true allergy you would know it, not think it!

Allergies can give rise to almost immediate symptoms such as swellings, inflammation, abdominal cramps, vomiting, hives/rashes, itching and breathing difficulties, for some, these symptoms can be immediate or build over several hours, they can also be life threatening and need immediate medical treatment.

So with that in mind I now turn attention to the so called food intolerances (or food hypersensitivity) which may or may not be causing symptoms. The reaction is slower and can build up over a few days which can make it more difficult to track down as many people can’t remember their last meal let alone ask them to think back to what they’ve eaten 3 - 4 days ago!

Working with digestive issues underpins much of the work of a nutritionist, certainly in my case anyway. However, do I walk the path of running food intolerance tests? The answer to that is NO! I’d rather look for the possible root cause before running these kinds of tests as they can become so confusing as the possible reasons are very varied. Some people have paid out a small fortune and been given a list of so many foods as triggers that they start to remove them from their diet making life pretty miserable, plus they often don’t replace valuable nutrients needed to stay healthy.

Whilst most reaction to foods/substances are considered immune reactions there are times where they are more brain reactions such as a migraine following cured meats, some cheeses or wine for example.

I’ve listed symptoms that may occur from food(s) here, it’s not an exhaustive list but merely to show that it’s not just physical symptoms that can occur but also emotional/mental ones: Fatigue Sinusitis, rhinitis Skin issues Weight issues Digestive issues including IBS, bloating, indigestion Anxiety, brain fog, irritability, mood swings, restlessness Dark circles under eyes Food cravings Joint pains, insomnia and much more N.B please do not accept symptoms of any kind

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as mere food intolerances, it must not be assumed the case and always ask your doctor for advice. The above may be linked to food intolerances that go under cover.

Addressing the underlying possible causes is the way forward as opposed to just taking out the food and a qualified health practitioner can help you.

What may cause food intolerances?

Other considerations (just to throw something else into the works) are whether you’re responding to the chemical sprays/additives in the food or the natural chemicals found in the particular food.

Eating the same food too often – your tolerance level is reached (this will vary from person to person) High or excessive prolonged stress levels Gut hyperpermeability – leaky gut where too large molecules are passing into the blood stream

You can see that it can take a bit of time to not only look at underlying issues but to also address them to be able to enjoy some of the foods

‘Working with digestive issues underpins much of the work of a nutritionist…’

Lowered gut immunity Lack of digestive enzymes, and stomach acid (lack of or lowered levels) Not chewing food properly and/or eating far too quickly/overeating Dysbiosis – altered friendly bacteria in the digestive tract, which can increase the levels of yeasts and other pathogens Some medical drugs - can interfere with the gut in many ways from altering the friendly microbes and/or intestinal lining, and intestinal immunity.

Toxicity… and more Whilst the list above is not exhaustive it can give you a better idea of what can case the body to suddenly react to foods or even food additives.

It’s a complex issue and there are no set rules that apply as we are all so different, but looking at what you are eating over and over is a start. Begin to keep a food diary, look how often you eat the food and monitor symptoms. It may also happen in combination with another food so it pays to really keep a diary and if you are consulting a health practitioner this will be invaluable information.

You may then with advice start to exclude those possible triggers and reintroduce them to see how you feel. This is important.

without reacting, (I say some as maybe there are one or two that can never truly be a good food for you but replacing them with the key nutrients is important).

Discuss with your doctor any symptoms you may have to rule out other causes, and then look for qualified health practitioners who may be able to help further.

In health Karen www.karendevine.co.uk Karen is a Peterborough based Registered Nutritional Therapist, Registered Colonic Hydrotherapists, Naturopath and coach.

KAREN’S OFFER FOR THE MONTH OF APRIL 1 COLONIC £55 (normally £70) or book 2 for £80

The Voice Local singers Vanessa Hunt and Classical Reflection definitely have the voice! ESP’s Mikey Clarke finds out what’s next…

I wondered how the girls felt after they’d been told who they’d be battling with. Classical Reflection said – “We were over the moon that we were battling Emmanuel as he is such a lovely person, and we had so much in common too. We all decided to make it a duet instead of a battle from the very start, so it was more fun.”

“To be honest, I was disappointed to be up against Liss,” Vanessa explained. “Because we were so similar in some ways, and I knew it would be really tough to win against her. She’s one talented lady!

“The thing is that we got on like a house on fire, (take away the pressure and competition of the show) and off camera and off set we spent a lot of time together and genuinely got on so well.”

Classical Reflection

ans of the hit BBC show, The Voice, and readers of ESP Magazine will know that Peterborough had three fabulously talented contestants on this year’s series.

All three girls were at home whilst the Battle Round was screened on the tele, watching with friends and family. It wasn’t just those close to them giving their support. The twins said – “We had a huge response online, which was amazing!

Everyone seemed to love the song.

Unfortunately Vanessa Hunt and the Moxon twins were sadly knocked out of the show after putting on great performances in the Battle Round. I spoke with them soon after to discuss the whole experience and find out what the future holds.

“The exciting news is that we’ve been to Cardiff to see a record label and they’re going to release a single for us so watch this space!

F

Twins Naomi and Hannah Moxon from Longthorpe, who together make Classical Reflection, told me – “We had such a great time throughout the whole experience. The team make it so enjoyable, as do the other acts.

“We think that it’s such a fantastic platform for our singing so we aren't sad at all. We both feel it's what you make of your experience afterwards that really matters.

“The main thing we’ll remember about being on the show is just how lovely everyone was. And the obvious moment when Ricky turned for us in our first audition. That feeling was just overwhelming.”

Vanessa from Wisbech agrees – “I really enjoyed being on the show as well – and for the platform that it’s given me. There’s so much that goes into the production and all of the staff work incredibly hard – I’m glad to have been a part of it.”

It was the Battle Round that saw the end of the line for our talented locals. In hindsight, would they have done anything differently? Vanessa told me – “I would have fought to keep the song in the original key; as it wasn't my decision to change it and I felt we lost the soul in the song.”

Vanessa Hunt

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“We don't think we would change anything,” Classical Reflection explained. “We loved singing with Emmanuel and we got on so well. We had some fantastic comments too, such as Will.i.am saying that he was going to steal us – which made us so thankful. But, where you are positioned in the show does determine the outcome sometimes.”

“We have had so many new bookings for this year and the next, which has been lovely for our career. We have a concert coming up as a thank you to everyone who has supported us, on the 5th and 6th June at the John Clare Theatre, here in Peterborough. We are planning to do some more venues throughout the UK too.” Vanessa has been in talks with people too. “I'm speaking with a few producers and agents so just taking it as it comes and seeing where it goes,” she said.

Vanessa’s day job might be selling loo roll and the like for a Peterborough cleaning firm but this talented lass has been in talks with people too.

She’ll now be taking to the seas with Royal Caribbean cruises throughout this year performing with 80s band Wild Boys and has also been signed up by a top London Agency for castings in the West End. “I'm speaking with a few producers and agents so just taking it as it comes and seeing where it goes,” she said.

So, who would the girls like to see win? For Classical Reflection – “It would of course be Emmanuel as he is an amazing singer.”

“I would like Clark to win,” Vanessa said. “He's such a lovely, genuine guy – and really funny too.”

I honestly think the girls came out of the show too early, but by the sounds of it we’ll be seeing a lot more of them soon.

To read (and watch) our previous interviews with Vanessa Hunt and Classical Reflection, visit www.espmag.co.uk Mikey Clarke

5 facts about Vanessa Hunt: 1) I used to be in a Northern Soul band.

2) I used to work as a holiday park entertainer.

3) I am very self-critical.

4) I hate gherkins.

5) I don't only sell ‘bog-roll’.

5 facts about Classical Reflection: 1) We have banned ourselves from pet shops because whenever we go into one, we seem to buy a new pet – as they are just too cute to be left.

2) We have never been on a plane before, believe it or not. We are going to film our first flight.

3) Our favourite TV show is Suits.

4) We are actually quite short in real life 5’1”. Getting onto theme park rides can be difficult.

5) We both started reading when we were 21/2. Got to love a good book!

Have you got the voice?

Peterborough has showcased some great talent on The Voice over the last few years with singer/songwriter Murray Hockridge and John Quinn both appearing on previous seasons. It would be great to see even more!

Talent scouts across the UK are already searching for amazing singers to attend The Voice UK Open Auditions for Series 5. If you're confident that you've got a genuinely great singing voice you can apply to audition online on www.voiceukauditions.co.uk These Open Auditions aren’t televised and you won’t be getting up close and personal with any of the celebs! Go for it folks.

www.espmag.co.uk

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Mostly Funny

steve.gonzalez@espmag.co.uk

THE NAME OF THE GAME I

f you're not a fan of Game of Thrones then you might want to skip this next bit and just look at the comedy gigs. Put simply, it's one of the GREATEST TV programmes ever made. I can't think of another drama on TV that matches it, and you'd be hard pushed to find any film franchises of the last 25 years with a better combination of characters, storylines or action.

Over the last four years it’s become the most watched HBO TV show of all time (surpassing viewing figures for Sex & the City, Boardwalk Empire, Entourage, True Blood and even The Sopranos). Last month Game of Thrones Season 4 became the UK's fastest-selling DVD box set of all time when it sold over 157,000 copies during the first week of its release. The TV adaptation of George R R Martin’s fantasy novel series is now the fastestselling box set since Little Britain – the Complete First Season in 2004.

Therefore I was hoping David Walliams & Matt Lucas might have dressed up as Lou & Andy and gate-crashed the world premiere of Games of Thrones fifth season at the Tower of London, but there was no sign of them anywhere (so thank the seven gods of Westeros for Photoshop).

Meanwhile, the BBC's desperate obsession with 'Who killed Lucy Beale?' paled into insignificance compared to GOT's glorious 'Who

THE MACK DADDY OF DARTS 'Hit the Board' Mack with the duo lifting the trophy after a thrilling final against Darrly 'Dazzler' Fitton & Tim 'The Punaway Train' Vine. However, the funniest moment came in the after match interview when host Gabby Logan quizzed Lee Mack about the win.

You may remember that last month’s column was all about comedians appearing on Let's Play Darts for Comic Relief alongside professional players to raise money as part of Red Nose Day. Our local darts legend Martin 'Wolfie' Adams was paired with Lee

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Gabby: “Lee, you said that winning this would mean more to you than the birth of your 3 children and the day you married your wife. Surely you'd want to readdress that now?”

Lee: “Er, yes. I also include the first time we had sexual intercourse...

Not me and you, me and my wife.”

WILL kill Joffrey Baratheon' storyline, but hey, you already knew that because if you didn't you would've stopped reading after the opening paragraph. Anyway, Season 5 begins on Sky Atlantic on April 13 and if it comes anywhere near as being as good as the last four, then we're in for a treat.

THE LAST LAUGH As a big fan of the Simpsons, I was saddened to hear that Sam Simon – one of the show’s co-creators, passed away in March from cancer at the age of 59.

Although not a household name he won seven Emmys for his work on the show as a writer, director and executive producer after previously working on other hit shows Taxi & Cheers. It's hard to imagine what The Simpsons would've been like without his involvement but if you Google his name you'll find some brilliant articles about his contribution to the show and how he used the millions he made from it to support his favourite charities. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sam_Simon

Established in 1890, e Rose & Crown at orney is a true country pub

COMEDY

GIGS

FUNHOUSE COMEDY CLUB

Set in a beautiful location we boast superb home cooked food, a huge selection of drinks and a truly warm welcome for all the family.

APR

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North Street Bar’s regular Funhouse Comedy nights continue this month with headliner Glaswegian Larry Dean full of sharp and unexpected witties, he’s joined by comedy circuit favourite Pierre Hollins and support comes from Philip Simon and Steve Atkinson with compere Ben Murray. Doors open 7.30pm, show starts at 8pm. Tickets are £8.50 in advance on www.funhousecomedy.co.uk

SO COMEDY CLUB STAMFORD

Your hosts, Steve and Sheila have been in the pub for more than 20 years and always ensure a warm welcome and friendly service.

If you prefer a little peace and quiet or somewhere for the kids to run around, we offer a spacious beer garden and patio area for you to enjoy the fresh air and stunning views.

Bar Monday - Closed Tuesday - Saturday 11am-11pm Sunday - 12pm-10pm restaurant Monday - Closed Tuesday - Saturday 11.30am-2.30pm, 5.30pm - 9.00pm Sunday - 12pm-6pm Post office Monday - Closed Tuesday - Saturday 9am - 7pm Sunday - 9.30am - 3pm cafe Monday - Closed Tuesday - Saturday 9am-5.30pm Sunday - 9-30am-12pm ALL BANK HOLIDAYS ARE SAME OPENING HOURS AS SUNDAY

APR

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Headliner Rob Rouse brings us honest, frank, seriously funny stand-up and will be familiar to you from several TV spots including the likes of 8 Out of 10 Cats, Dave's One Night Stand and John Bishop's Only Joking. Support comes from the inventive and hilarious Jonny Lennard. Catch them at Stamford Arts Centre. Tickets are £15 (£13) £12 students/groups 10+ from the box office on 01780 763203.

NEW COMEDY CLUB STAMFORD

APR

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Our local comedy scene is thriving and there’s now a new addition in Stamford at the Corn Exchange’s Theatre Lounge on Broad Street. The first of these new monthly nights brought to us by Grasshopper Productions features headliner Gerry K, as seen on ITV's FHM Stand Up Hero who’s been described as: ‘Absolutey histerical, a definite must for anyone that loves comedy’ by Ents 24. The bill also includes comedian Ash Frith, endorsed by Russell Kane, and the night’s hosted by Justin Panks.

Doors open at 7.45pm and the show starts at 8.30pm. Tickets are £6 in advance on 01780 766455, or £8 on the door.

SOLSTICE COMEDY CLUB

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I went along to the first of these new nights upstairs at Radius and it was a great start. The next sees another sharp and sardonic night of classy stand up. Featuring as seen on TV headliner Ed Gamble (Almost Royal, Dave’s One Night Stand, Russell Howard's Good News), award winner Harriet Kemsley, Peter Brush and MC Mark Cram.

The show starts at 8pm and tickets are £7.50 from the Solstice or on 01733 560231.

CRESSET COMEDY CLUB

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An amazing line-up for April’s Comedy Club. These guys are funny, like, seriously funny – book in advance for an anticipated sell-out gig. Headliner Ian Stone is a regular on BBC 5 Live’s ‘Fighting Talk’ and was ranked amongst the top ten stand-ups in Britain

by The Independent. Support comes from former 8 Out Of 10 Cats team captain Rob Rouse and rising star Russell Hicks plus warm and witty compere Pete Dobbing.

Tickets are £13 advance on 01733 265705 or £15 on the door.

2 Wisbech Road, orney, Peterborough PE6 0SB Phone: 01733 270 546 Email: thorneypub@aol.com

THE POSH PAGE ESP’s columnist Neil Gilby brings us the exclusives on all things Peterborough United…

Every football fan would love the opportunity to run a Football Club. We all think it would be relatively easy, and we all think we know better than the manager come match day. I caught up with Peterborough United Chief Executive Officer Bob Symns to find out just what’s involved in running a Football Club from top to bottom, and is it really as easy as we all think?

Council, the Football League and of course our supporters so that we could underpin the structure and our future, it was certainly different.”

Bob Symns, Peterborough United Chief Executive Officer

Photo: www.theposh.com

You have worked under a few owners now, Peter Boizot, Barry Fry and now Darragh MacAnthony, how different is it working with a chairman who lives abroad leaving you to run the ship day to day?

In your role as CEO of PUFC, how tough is it running a Football Club?

“Working at a Football Club can be quite complex with all the different departments presenting their own challenges, but all needing to be managed under the same umbrella.

If you start to list them you are looking after Retail, Ticketing, Building Maintenance, Finance & Accountancy, HR & Legal, Commercial Sales and Sponsorship, Conference & Banqueting, Grounds Keeping, Marketing & Hospitality and that’s before you get into Media. Our Media alone looks after Photography, Press, Printing, Website Control, and Social Media amongst others, so keeping on top of that alone is a challenge in itself and notice I haven’t even mentioned the football side yet!”

League; it means more piles of paperwork but hey, if it provides a safer environment, let’s get on with it.”

Your background isn’t in football is it? So upon getting the position how much of an eye opener was it?

How has your job description changed through the years?

“I worked with a senior company in the UK before setting up my own business, both of which gave me a deep insight into the responsibilities and challenges of dealing with business and pressure. When I first came to Peterborough I would come to London Road and support the club. I think it’s well known I am a Spurs supporter, but I have always been a massive fan of football and believer in supporting your local team, so I would stand in the London Road terrace cheering on the team and of course it’s everyone’s dream to run a Football Club, well, it was mine!

“It’s completely different now to what it was like back in the day. The expectation in ‘off the field’ provision has grown immensely. Supporters have quite rightly come to expect a much better service provision to enhance their matchday experience and we must keep moving this project forward. Another big change has been the introduction of much tighter governance practices and procedures throughout the Football

“When I came in, what surprised me from a corporate point of view was that we needed new business building blocks, a new foundation for the future because ultimately it’s all about sustainability. My ‘the biggest fixture in football is Income v Expenditure’ dictate is where I want our club to be, so we started out on the road of building secure relationships with the banks, police, HMRC, city businesses, the City

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“It’s not that bad really, with all the communication systems available these days we are in touch all the time. Add to that, that we have a clear picture of his football philosophy and expectation; we know what needs to be done.

However... there is the occasional hiccup, when the Chairman calls in the evening in Florida, it’s midnight or later over here, but whatever the time, when the Chairman calls I pick up the phone... it’s only polite.”

How much do you appreciate the job you have?

“I’m like a kid in a candy shop I really am. Being a football fan my whole life, I just love it. One of my fondest moments was after a year or so in being in the role, I went along with Barry to an LMA dinner representing the football club and on our table were Sir Alex Ferguson, David Moyes, Sam Allardyce and Peter Reed amongst others when all of a sudden I had hands come over my eyes from behind and a voice said ‘Young man, look after the people on this table because their like will never be known again’. On turning round it was Brian Clough and for me that was a magic moment as he then chatted to me for ages about his encounters with all the managers sitting at the table. I should also add two more very special and privileged occasions.

One, being able to walk around the pitch like a lost child at the end of winning the Play Off Final at Old Trafford and two, sitting in the Royal Box at the JPT Final and then shaking the players’ hands as they lifted the trophy... I’m a lucky boy.”

You have to work with both ends of the spectrum, footballers who are paid very handsomely then you have office staff who are paid not so handsomely, how difficult is that to manage?

“It’s a very good question actually, and I hope you are not asking for a pay rise! It is difficult because it’s a market rate in general that the players receive, and this isn’t always the case for the rest of our staff who are incredibly loyal and hard working and I would like to see them receive more for the work they do. As always, these issues are controlled by our fiscal balance and as previously mentioned, this balance is critical to our long term future. I will also add that whilst I appreciate that supporters come to see what happens on the pitch for an hour and a half on a match day, the work undertaken behind the scenes is virtually 24/7 and one day I hope that football recognises that fact by universally paying the living wage.”

What would you say is your biggest achievement to date as CEO? “Blimey… I suppose overall it would have to be the stadium redevelopment, with the help of the City Council who have been magnificent. We have one new stand up and we are talking about a second, so that to me is massive as we progress, add to that the new training ground facilities and it’s happy days.”

What more would you like to achieve before you hang up your tie?

“I would like to see us back competing in the Championship on a regular basis; it’s where we need to be.”

If you could give your young self some advice from what you know now what would that be?

“Buy the football ground so that the club owns it… Simples!”

NIGHTlife Your guide to the night time scene

HOME @ SOLGARDEN Kick start your Easter celebrations this year with a night dedicated to the history of dance music. HOME, a collective group of Peterborough’s finest DJs, Paul SW, Steve Andrews, Jason Swift, Budsy and Zoe Roberts, will be playing at the SolGarden (Solstice) on Thursday April 2.

HOME promises to deliver an amazing atmosphere where house music fans of all ages can enjoy the company of like-minded people whilst listening to some classic floor fillers.

been attributed to part of the scene’s revival in the city and this bank holiday looks set to go off with a bang! With resident House Proud DJ Russell James leading the way with 12 hours of beats, you can expect the usual great vibe that comes with House Proud events.

For more info and DJs visit www.facebook.com/ houseproudmusicuk

EDWARDS APRIL SHOWDOWNS!

HOUSE PROUD - 12 HOUR BANK HOLIDAY SPECIAL!

Edwards are treating revelers in April with some cracking nights of music mayhem. On Friday April 10, Vanity is back with special guests, CJ Beatz (DJ Set) and XO Man (live performance) bringing you a mash up of all the biggest hip hop, RnB, bashment and even some of their own releases.

From 2pm on Sunday April 5 at SolGarden, Solstice, music lovers can enjoy a 12 hour marathon of good tunes! This epic house music movement in Peterborough has

On Thursday April 2 party goers can enjoy some YoYo Easter madness with three venues open, (Edwards, Flares, Red Room) until 5am with top DJs and drink offers.

The night starts at 9pm and runs through until 3am.

On Friday April 24, to celebrate ThrowBack’s 1st birthday party, the team at Edwards and Flares has pulled together a huge lineup for you to enjoy. Gracious K, Funky Dee, MC Kie & Kyla are on the invite list along with the ThrowBack residents Nick T, AJ and Danny D who’ll be playing a mixture of your favourite old school Kisstory style anthems on the night.

Check facebook for more on all of these events.

MIXOLOGY PRESENTS KiNK Voted 3rd in the esteemed Resident Advisor live acts of 2014 list, Mixology are proud to welcome the unique and innovative KiNK to the Red Room at Edwards on Friday May 1. The first ever live act to perform at Mixology! The Bulgarian artist incorporates DJ skills with keyboard and controller manipulation with the art of an accomplished musician to produce some seriously wicked techno and house sounds. 2014 saw KinK

performing the world over and at some of the most iconic clubs in dance music including Space, Sankeys and DC-10 and festivals such as Tomorrowland and ADE. Tickets available via Resident Advisor. Visit their Facebook page for further info www.facebook.com/mixologyuk

TECHNOIR FIRST BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS On Saturday May 2, the Technoir lads are celebrating their first birthday in style at the Lord Burghley in Stamford. For those who don’t know, Technoir nights are a collaboration of DJs playing ‘the best cutting edge underground house music to a cool educated crowd who know their music’.

For more info on this night and up and coming Technoir events, visit their Facebook page www.facebook/TechNoirEast

INTRODUCING… DJ Jules DJ Jules (Julian Roberts) has been a familiar face on the local scene for years bringing us various soul-infused nights. His current gig is the Jelly Roll Club at the Burghley Club in Peterborough.

What can we expect at your nights music wise?

“50's / 60's Rhythm and Blues, 60's and Northern Soul, Latin, Ska and vintage Reggae, Hammond / Jazz grooves ... anything that fits and works for the Modernist / Trad skins / cool and casual crowd.”

What's the vibe and the crowd like?

What's your background in the scene?

“My musical taste has changed and evolved since my first encounter with Northern Soul. Motown. Ska and the film Quadrophenia in the late 70's.

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“It’s been a strange and eventful journey where my love for DJ-ing started in the late 80's at Viva La Rock and has now parked me up at the Jelly Roll Club.”

“I never found music. Music found me and took me on one hell of a journey!”

“Great vibe and atmosphere! Friendly, knowledgeable on music and clothes, but not taking things too seriously! Well dressed and welcoming of newcomers. We have locals and people travelling regularly from the likes of Nottingham, London, Coventry, Cambridge, Northampton and further afield. The majority are in the 30-50 age bracket as you’d imagine, but we have a number of young guns

coming through the doors who are looking for something different to the norm.”

Why did you launch it?

“We used to travel up and down the UK to hear these tunes being played from the black slate (vinyl). Then a few of us decided that there were enough people in the city and neighbouring towns and cities who’d support a night like this but with our own twist and the Jelly Roll Club was born, but back then the name was different but the quality of music was the same.”

What have been the highlights so far?

“The Mini All-nighter at the Radius (thanks to management ). The Jelly Roll Charity All-dayer at our regular venue the Burghley Club, where we raised nearly £1000 for the Sue

Ryder Thorpe Hall Hospice appeal.”

What do you think to the current scene?

“Healthy and competitive.

Each club has their own way of doings things. We at Jelly Roll like to do it our way, which seems to work.”

How would you advise anyone to set up a night?

“You have to do it for the right reasons and have deep pockets and find a venue that will work with you and not use and abuse you.”

Dates to remember are Saturday June 6, Saturday September 12 and Saturday November 14. For more info visit – www.thejellyrollclub.com Tabernacle Motown / Classic Soul night at the Farcet Club on Saturday April 4 starts 8pm.

Supporting LocAle for the whole of April 04/04/15 – Grumpy Old Men 11/04/15 – Laurette Evelyn 12/04/15 – The Party Animals – Daytime Animal Show for children and families 17/04/15 – BIRTHDAY BEER FESTIVAL – The Soul Sisters - 9pm 18/04/15 – BIRTHDAY BEER FESTIVAL – The Blues House – 5pm 18/04/15 – BIRTHDAY BEER FESTIVAL – The Psych-O-Bombs – 9pm 25/04/15 – Subway 77 02/05/15 - The Tunnel

BLUE BELL W

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Live Music 4th 9th 10th 17th 18th 25th

Wayne Swift Rat Pack Race Night in aid of Macmillen Cancer.

Cockney Night Gags On The Green Comedy Night Diana Ross Tribute Atume Storm Rock Band

Zumba class Tuesdays 7-8pm Childrens dance class from 3.30pm

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Home Cooked And All Fresh food served 12-10pm Roast Dinners Every Sunday 12-4.30 £6.50 adult £4.50 child Full English Breakfast Served All Day Every Day Opening Hours 12-12 7 days a week Camra accredited 2015-03-12 8 Real Ales 6 Premium Lagers Prosecco And Various Wines Cocktails On Order BT SPORTS-DARTS-POOLCRIBBAGE (free pool Tues Evenings) FUNCTION ROOM AVAILABLE FOR WEDDINGS, PARTIES

6 The Green, Werrington, Peterborough PE4 6RU 01733 571264 Helen-warby@hotmail.co.uk

keith.dalton@espmag.co.uk

Keith Dalton has the ESP guide to the best news and views from the local live music scene…

HOOTENANNY DOES PETE PROUD

Last month at the Cresset, I was privileged to compere Pete’s Hootenanny along with my ESP buddy, Andy Slater. It was held in memory of Peter Thomson who we lost to cancer at the end of last year. He was helped through this difficult time by the staff at Sue Ryder Thorpe Hall, and they were the chosen charity for the event.

Photos: Mike Harris

Pete was a very popular and likeable guy who performed with a lot of local bands and in productions on a regular basis.

The weekend was organised and put together by Colin Smith who wanted to remember his close friend with a celebration of live music. So he set about asking a few local musicians if they’d like to take part in this event. The response was so large that one day grew into two days as more came on board.

It was like a local version of the journey that Bob Geldof undertook with Live Aid, which grew and grew in a very short time.

The reason why it was so well supported by musicians and audience alike were two fold.

Obviously Pete’s undoubted popularity was a factor but also it showed what a closely knit community the live music scene is in the Peterborough area. I saw this many times throughout the event, with band members supporting and helping their comrades in other bands.

These photos by our photographer Mike Harris show what a special weekend it was, as everyone who attended would agree, and you can see many more on our ESP Facebook page.

Congratulations to all.

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THE SMYTHS ARE BACK IN TOWN The Met Lounge is eagerly awaiting the return of their most popular ever tribute band on Easter Friday April 3 when The Smyths – the UK’s No.1 tribute to The Smiths – hit the stage at the Bridge Street club.

The band’s appeared at The Met annually over the past few years and as the last four appearances have all sold out don’t hang about! Due to their increasing popularity, this may be the last time that

the club will be able to book the band – simply because The Smyths are playing bigger and bigger venues.

This time around the band are concentrating the set list on the Meat is Murder album by The Smiths as it coincides with the 30th anniversary of its release and will be on stage at 8.45pm Tickets are on sale now from www.seetickets.com or from The Met reception 01733 566100.

STAMFORD GIG WILL BE THE DOGS Folk Rock is coming to Stamford Arts Centre on April 24 as Nottingham’s very popular Ferocious Dog visit at the start of a lengthy UK tour. The band have been compared to the Levellers and the Pogues and they create their own take on traditional Celtic folk.

The band takes the traditional instruments associated with folk; fiddles, whistles, mandolins and they mix them up with a bit of raw rock ‘n' roll attitude.

With their unique, aggressive yet feelgood music they make a huge impression on their audiences and it’s a great opportunity to see them at a local venue. After their tour they head back onto the Festival circuit for the summer.

A number of the tour dates are already sold out so be quick to get your tickets for April 24 at the Stamford Arts Centre Box Office on 01780 763203.

STAMFORD CELEBRATES MUSICAL GREATS Three nostalgic shows visit The Stamford Corn Exchange in April.

Firstly there’s We Say Yeah! a rock ‘n’ roll show celebrating the music of Cliff Richard and The Shadows.

Steve Halliday takes you on a journey across the decades with his authentic five costume changes along with The Undercover Shadows performing live on Friday April 10.

It’s followed on Saturday April 11 by The ELO Experience – Mr Blue Sky Tour 2014 Back into the Blue. They were voted the Official UK No.1 Tribute show 2013 by the agents association of GB. The Electric Light Orchestra always

THE LAvALAMp LIGHTERS

ESP’s Anna Ruggiero introduces a new band on the circuit…

Peterborough’s only band comprised of adults with learning difficulties, The Lavalamp Lighters, are setting the Peterborough music scene on fire performing a collection of their own melodic rock songs to a new wave of fans.

The group formed through the Lavalamp LIVE project which is run by the amazing local social enterprise, Beat This. If you visit www.beatthis.org you can find out about all the great stuff they do in the local community through the medium of music.

The band brings something truly unique to Peterborough that will hopefully encourage others to have a go, learn new skills and brave the stage. Oh and their songs also happen to be very, very good.

Benny Turner, director at Beat This, told ESP: “We run clubbing nights for people with learning difficulties called Lavalamp Nights and one of the club goers asked if we could help him set up a live band.

brought a spectacular show which the ELO Experience emulate with a stunning light show and large screen projection.

“We decided to take a similar approach to the nightclub model, which is training and mentoring adults with disabilities to become DJs and to hold a nightclub event, but to shift it across to the live arena with instruments and forming a band.”

The third show, which takes place on Saturday April 18, gives you a Blues Brothers Experience. This recreates all the iconic atmosphere of a live performance of The Blues Brothers – capturing the essence of both the music and the film – in one exciting stage show.

This year, the band’s been granted some additional funding from the lovely people at Comic Relief through the Cambridgeshire Community Foundation, which has helped the band to receive additional support from Beat This through a series of workshops, helping the group become more independent and producing a professional E.P – which they have done!

The live ten-piece band produces music that will thrill you and provide pure entertainment.

Aptly named The Lavalamp Lighters, the tracks can be listened to and downloaded from www.thelavalamplighters.bandcamp.com

All three shows can be booked by phoning The Stamford Corn Exchange Box Office on 01780 766455.

Or, if like me, you’re old school, you can grab a copy of the CD (highly recommended) by emailing lava.lamp.live31@gmail.com.

www.espmag.co.uk

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gigs@espmag.co.uk WED MAR 25

PSYCHO BOMBS The Swiss Cottage, ACOUSTIC SESSION Woodston WITH GARY INGREY RISKY TRICK The Railway, Ramsey

THU MAR 26 OPEN MIC North Street Bar, North Street

The Green Man, Stamford

ROCKET DOGS Quinns Bar, Whittlesey

SKOOL OF ROCK FESTIVAL

THE INFLUENCE

THE OVERDUBS

JOE SOLO

THU APR 23

PENNYLESS

The Crown, Lincoln Road

The Dragon, Werrington

The Swiss Cottage, Woodston

North Street Bar, North Street

LIVE BANDS

The Five Horseshoes, Barholm

OPAQUE

THE LAZOONS

JOHN CASH TRIBUTE

FRI APR 24

NEW GENERATION CRASH N BURN Charters, Town Bridge

The Royal Oak, Castor

ROCK OUT

ZEB ROOTZ

The Three Tuns, Doddington

The Granary, Long Sutton

MON APR 6

Iron Horse Ranch, Market Deeping

STEVE LOCKS ALFIE CHARTERS NOTES BAND UNPLUGGED The Heron, Stanground

Iron Horse Ranch, Market Deeping

THE 707

THE HIGH ROLLERS

EASYER SAID

THE ELEMENTS

FRI MAR 27 BURNING CODES

The Heron, Stanground

The Cock Inn, Werrington

Ebeneezers, Woodston

FLEETWOOD BAC

THE ONE EYED CATS

Sir Harry Smith College, Whittlesey

FRANCIE REIHILL

The Ploughman, Werrington

SUBWAY 77 The Crown, Lincoln Road

THE 707 O'Neill's, Broadway

THE RELICS The Crown, Lincoln Road

TIGER CLUB The Swiss Cottage, Woodston

TORI LAMOUR + DAMAGED + DARKSCREEN + HAIL THE HORROR

Millstone Inn, Barnack

BETTY SWALLOX BAND

STACEY & DAVE'S OPEN MIC

The Crown, Lincoln Road

MON MAR 30 THE SHADES OF GREEN

CHILLI FACTOR

Charters, Town Bridge The Swiss Cottage, Woodston

BACK TO WINEHOUSE

ROCK OUT

THE OVERDUBS

The Blue Bell, Werrington

The Market Inn, Huntingdon

The Ploughman, Werrington

DAVE MCPHERSON + BEN CALLANAN

FRI APR 3

THE OVERSPILL

IRON FIST Iron Horse Ranch, Market Deeping

JIMMY (HIGH ROLLERS) North Street Bar, North Street

LET THERE B/DC The Cock Inn, Werrington

LIZZY ON THE LOOSE The Crown, Lincoln Road

MOTOR CITY VIPERS The Brewery Tap, Westgate

Market Deeping

BEN CALLANAN ACOUSTIC

THE RETURNS The Granary, Long Sutton

THE SPIRIT Ebeneezers, Woodston

WAYNE SWIFT (SWING)

Charters, Town Bridge

KICKBACK

GRUMPY OLD MEN The Crown, Lincoln Road

The Swiss Cottage, Woodston

THE VELTONES

The Angel Inn, Yarwell

THU APR 9

THE 707

JOE SOLO

RADIUS 45

THUNDERHEAD

LIVE MUSIC SHOWCASE

The Dragon, Werrington

North Street Bar, North Street

The Ploughman, Werrington

CHILDREN OF THE REVOLUTION

DAVE JACKSON Charters, Town Bridge

ELECTRIC WARRIORS The Swiss Cottage, Woodston

FRANCIE REIHILL

IRON FIST

CHILDREN OF THE REVOLUTION

CHILDREN OF THE REVOLUTION ACOUSTIC

The Dragon, Werrington

The New Crown, Whittlesey

Iron Horse Ranch, Market Deeping

NEW FANG

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North Street Bar, North Street

THE RETURNS Ebeneezers, Woodston

UNDER_COVERED

JIMMY DOHERTY Charters, Town Bridge

M-TONES The Crown, Lincoln Road

The Crown, Lincoln Road

SUN APR 12 BON ROGERS

OPEN MIC NIGHT WITH JAMES EDMONDS

SUN APR 5

The London Inn, Stamford

THE LAZOONS

North Street Bar, North Street

The Swiss Cottage, Woodston

HARKBACK

Charters, Town Bridge

TUE APR 14

FRANKLY MY DEAR

The Golden Fleece, Stamford

THE BUZZ RATS

CJ HATT

The Dragon, Werrington

FULLY LOADED

THE BRAYS

George & Angel, Crowland The Crown, Lincoln Road

BLACKOUT UK

The Crown, Lincoln Road

THE RAINMEN GO WITH THE FLOW North Street Bar,

ACOUSTIC SESSION WITH GARY INGREY SWITCHBLADE The Railway, Ramsey

The Blue Bell, Werrington

ZEB ROOTZ

The Three Tuns, Doddington

THE RELICS

North Street Bar, North Street

Mama Liz's, Stamford

50

The Angel Inn, Yarwell

CHILDREN OF THE REVOLUTION

THE LAZOONS

The Dragon, Werrington

Lincolnshire Poacher, Spalding

The Cock Inn, Werrington

The London Inn, Stamford

The Angel Inn, Yarwell

Stamford Arts Centre, Stamford

COLOURS OF BLUE

WED APR 8

The Golden Fleece, Stamford

THE NUGGETS

FEROCIOUS DOG

North Street

VINTAGE STUFF

North Street Bar, North Street

ARC NATION

THE CLAIMED

HOOKER

SOUND STATION

9 LIVES

The Royal Oak, Castor

The Heron, Stanground

The Railway, Ramsey

The Cock Inn, Werrington

THE LAZOONS

SAT MAR 28

Sawtry Club, Sawtry

The Vine, Market Deeping

The Dragon, Werrington

The London Inn, Stamford

The Heron, Stanground

FRI APR 10

RED LIONZ BANDS NIGHT

ACOUSTIC NIGHT BEN MURPHY + ROWLANDS GO WITH THE FLOW MARK Iron Horse Ranch,

LAURETTE EVELYN

Orton Mere

The Met Lounge, Bridge Street

The Met Lounge, Bridge Street

The Stage, Market Deeping

The Dragon, Werrington

GO WITH THE FLOW OPEN MIC NIGHT THU APR 2 The Black Bull, Whittlesey WITH JAMES EDMONDS ACOUSTIC SESSION THE 707 The Crown, Lincoln Road WITH AIN'T The Peacock, London Road OPEN MIC WITH MISBEHAVIN THE ELEMENTS Mama Liz's, Stamford JAMES DOCHERTY The Blue Boar, Eye North Street Bar, OPEN MIC WITH THE ISLANDERS North Street JAMES & FRANCIE Peterborough Yacht Club, Iron Horse Ranch, Market Deeping

North Street Bar, North Street

SAT APR 18

CHILDREN OF THE REVOLUTION

The Golden Pheasant, Etton

THE 707

Iron Horse Ranch, Market Deeping

SKOOL OF ROCK FESTIVAL

The Dragon, Werrington

The Heron, Stanground

CHILDREN OF THE REVOLUTION ACOUSTIC

TUE APR 7

BROTHERHOODS ROUNDABOUT

ROCKET '57

SUBWAY 77

Charters, Town Bridge

THE JOHN BURROWS BAND

SAT APR 4

RAPTURE The Blue Boar, Eye

THE SOUL SISTERS

The Cock Inn, Werrington

The Waterton Arms, Deeping St James

BEN CALLANAN

DEXTER

ACOUSTIC SESSION WITH RICHARD JUNK PUPPETS

ACOUSTIC SESSIONS WITH DAVE & PHIL

RAMSHACKLE SERENADE

The Swiss Cottage, Woodston

The Swiss Cottage, Woodston

The Crown, Lincoln Road

The Crown, Lincoln Road

The Boat Inn, Whittlesey

REVOLVER

STEVE BEAN

SUN MAR 29 Iron Horse Ranch, Market Deeping

The Cock Inn, Werrington

The Ploughman, Werrington

LIVE BAND

The Boat Inn, Whittlesey

SAT APR 11

KICKBACK

THE REPLICAS

Iron Horse Ranch, Market Deeping

OPEN ACOUSTIC WITH DAVE & PHIL

Mama Liz's, Stamford

The Crown, Lincoln Road

DAVISON, WATSON AND GATES

THE OVERSPILL

The Fayre Spot, Bretton

WHITE CLOUDS & GUNFIRE + STRINGFINGER + DUKES OF NAZARETH

Charters, Town Bridge

North Street Bar, North Street

The Ostrich, North Street

Available for private midweek hire

2nd April – Red Lionz Rock Bands Night 9th April – Open Mic (Jimmy, High Rollers) 16th April – Funhouse comedy Club (£7.50) 23rd April – Shindig from Eclectic Ballroom 30th April – Acoustic Showcase

O'Neill's, Broadway The Ostrich, North Street

LESLEY CURTIS ACOUSTIC TRIO PHOENIX The Cock Inn, Werrington

SOULWEAVER

The Burghley Club, Burghley Square

THU APR 16 OPEN MIC WITH JAMES & FRANCIE Iron Horse Ranch, Market Deeping

The Solstice, Northminster

MIND THE GAP The Swiss Cottage, Woodston

PSYCHO BOMBS + THE BLUES HOUSE

The Crown, Lincoln Road

The Solstice, Northminster The Ostrich, North Street

ROB & DAVE (CHILDREN OF THE REVOLUTION)

THU APR 30 OPEN MIC

North Street Bar, North Street

North Street Bar, North Street

SWEET REVENGE

OPEN MIC WITH JAMES & FRANCIE

The Heron, Stanground

The Pear Tree, Stamford

RETROLUX

TALLAWAH

The Cock Inn, Werrington

The Crown, Lincoln Road

ROCKET DOGS

THE 707

The Woolpack, Stanground

Coalheavers Arms, Park Street

BIANCA & THE TOPCATS

STINGRAY

THE RETURNS

Charters, Town Bridge

The Blue Boar, Eye

The Golden Fleece, Stamford

JOE SOLO

SYLVESTER PEAT CUTTER + THE SAT APR 25 TWILIGHT BOGGERS AUTUME STORM Iron Horse Ranch,

Iron Horse Ranch, Market Deeping

FRI MAY 1

The Cock Inn, Werrington

ROCKET DOGS Rugby Club, Fengate

Market Deeping

The Blue Bell, Werrington

UNDER_COVERED

THE 707

CHILDREN OF THE REVOLUTION

The Dragon, Werrington

The Ostrich, Northminster

THE CLAIMED Prince of Wales Feathers, Castor

THE EXPLETIVES The Dragon, Werrington

THE GUARDS The Ploughman, Werrington

THE STERADENTS

The Ploughman, Werrington

CODE RED

SAT MAY 2 GO WITH THE FLOW Quinns Bar, Whittlesey

The Peacock, London Road LATESHOW The Blue Boar, Eye

EL CAMINO + FRONT PORCH PREACHERS

ROCKET '57

Iron Horse Ranch, Market Deeping

ROCKET DOGS The Dragon, Werrington

THE 707

The Crown, Lincoln Road

FRI APR 17

Ebeneezers, Woodston

ELECTRIC WARRIORS

ACOUSTIC FYZZ WALLIS + JULES MORGAN

TUE APR 21

The Cock Inn, Werrington

THE TUNNEL

FRANKLY MY DEAR

The Heron, Stanground

Iron Horse Ranch, Market Deeping

OPEN MIC WITH DAVE & PHIL The Boat Inn, Whittlesey

Palmerston Arms, Oundle Road

RAZZAMAJAZZ

GO WITH THE FLOW

BLACKOUT UK The Solstice, Northminster

CAPTAIN OBVIOUS Charters, Town Bridge

The Axe & Cleaver, Boston CHILDREN OF

THE HIGH ROLLERS

The Woolpack, Stanground

The Straw Bear, Whittlesey

THE REVOLUTION O'Neill's, Broadway

The Angel Inn, Yarwell

The Ivy Leaf Club, Whittlesey

WED APR 22

LOS ENDOS ACOUSTIC SESSION (GENESIS TRIBUTE) WITH GARY INGREY Sir Harry Smith College, The Railway, Ramsey

Whittlesey

MICKEY FLYNN The Angel Inn, Yarwell

The Railway, Whittlesey

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