ESP December 2010

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DECEMBER 2010 Issue 136

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mikey.clarke@espmag.co.uk ESP is a totally independent publication, not linked in any way to any of the Peterborough newspapers. 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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WINTER WONDERLAND

PARTY IN THE SQUARE! For the first time in ten years, Cathedral Square will be hosting a party on New Year’s Eve. Sponsored by Westgate Department Store, the family event begins at 8pm and will feature an Abba tribute act and the 80s Experience. Midnight will be marked by a fireworks display (weather permitting) – much safer than trying to do it yourself after a few glasses of wine! It’s great that Cathedral Square is hosting celebrations again so make sure you head down to make it a success – just don’t forget to wrap up warm!

SPOIL YOUR DOG THIS XMAS @ DOGROOMS Debbie at the Dogrooms on Lincoln Road has got some great offers this Christmas, so treat your dog and get them looking fab! Whether it’s your Staffie, Spaniel or Chihuahua – Debbie can cater for all. January is the month for anyone with Poodles, Toy, Miniature or Standard, as every Friday Poodlemania is just £20 for a clip and styling. You can select the scissors or trim of your choice, and see for yourself the amazing services Dogrooms can provide. For more information call Debbie on 01733 327777. www.esp m ag .co.u k ( De ce mber )

The Festive Freeze Winter Festival takes places at Voyager School, Walton, on December 18 from 2pm – 6pm. There’ll be an ice rink, real reindeer, giant bouncy snowglobe, mini funfair, performances and entertainment, rodeo reindeer and lots more – plus free goodie bags for the first 250 people! From 4.30pm the Voyage to Hollywood Community Cinema is showing The Muppets Christmas Carol which is festive fun for all the family. Free entry and plenty of free car parking, but some attractions may have additional costs.

24/7 CABS When you’re out partying this Christmas and New Year, make sure you call 24/7 cabs for a safe ride home from as little as £4. They’re happy to pick you up and drop you off to wherever you need to be during the festive celebrations! For more information on offers and prices on the services they can offer you, check out their advert later on in the mag!

THE COCK INN HAS REFURB The Cock Inn, Werrinton has recently had a refurbishment and is looking great! It’s open for business, so make sure you pop in and take a look. Their new graphic designer, is also worth a look – check out www.designedby magpies.co.uk. According to the people behind The Cock Inn, working with her is completely hassle-free as she comes to you – and creates beautiful contemporary designs for print based artwork.

SARAH AND ANDY TAKE A BREAK Never fear Andy Slater’s column will be back in the New Year! He’s probably been too busy converting the minibus he bought on eBay after a few beers into a camper van – his partner Tracey has now installed a breathalyser on their PC. Or he could’ve been busy buying his darling daughter birthday and Christmas presents, which he’s probably returned to the shops now she’s told the whole Greater Peterborough area about the minibus incident!

Sarah Tempest meanwhile has been busy compering our Glamour Galore and Festive Fashion Show events so she’ll be back with Wickedly Perceptive in our January issue.

WHEN THE MUSIC STOPS New city dating night organisers When The Music Stops have two fabulous events this month for people looking to meet someone. There’s a speed dating and cocktails night at Halo on Northminster on December 8 with some really special prizes up for grabs on the night. Then on December 13 they move to Toscanini restaurant in Eye. To find out more take a look at www.whenthemusicstops.com. This is dating for the discerning!

LAUREN BACKS LOCAL RADIO It was great to have Radio Peterborough back on air last month and our Face of ESP Lauren Hughes was just one of many special guests invited along. Lauren joined ESP’s live music writer and local radio presenter Keith Dalton for a chat on his lunchtime show. The station’s hoping to gain a full licence so it can return permanently next year. To lend your support to their campaign emai studio@radiopeterborough.co.uk or write to: Peter Tibbs, Programme Controller, Radio Peterborough, Chauffeurs Cottage, St Peter’s Road PE1 1YX.

LINGERIE LOVERS CHECK OUT WESTGATE

LESS IS MORE

Make sure you check out the fabulous and girlie lingerie at Westgate Department Store for those Christmas parties. The department has had a great new make over, now sitting next to Klass, and offers fantastic fashion brands Freya, Fantasie and Esprit – also perfect cheeky stocking fillers, guys!

Fancy getting discounts at tons of businesses around Peterborough?

Get your hand on a PCard today, which’ll give you, on average, 10% off at participating shops, hairdressing and beauty salons, restaurants, hotels and leisure attractions. Grab yours from the Destination Centre, Long Causeway for just £5.

GUARDIAN ANGELS

SANTA NIGHT FEVER

Peterborough girl Vikki Courtman, who lost a partner to Carbon Monoxide poisoning, has formed the CO Angels, with Stacey Rodgers and Melissa Mathews. All three have lost loved ones to CO poisoning, and have made it their mission to raise awareness of the dangerous gas.

They launched their awareness campaign at the Houses of Parliament last month and are urging everyone to: install alarms, get any appliance that burns fuel checked yearly and any new installations need to be carried out by a pro, not some dodgy bloke from the pub. For more information, see www.co-angels.co.uk

The Paul Pry on Lincoln Road’s hosting two festive disco nights, starring none other than DJ Santa on December 14 and 15 to raise funds for Sue Ryder Care and Thorpe Hall Hospice. Held in a heated marquee, you’ll be able to savour a three-course meal then dance the night away to DJ Santa’s festive party selection – yes, the man himself will be on the decks.

The deputy general manager, Kevin Eyre, told ESP – “Christmas is all about giving. It's great to know that as well as promising a fun night out, we will also be able to provide Sue Ryder Care with the much needed funds that they require.” Tickets are £19.99 on 01733 571234.

BOOK AT THE BANYAN

CASINO NIGHT @ WORTLEY

The new Banyan Tree has opened up in Westgate and is a great addition to the city centre. Combining a highquality Indian restaurant with a chilled-out bar serving snacks was a very good idea, and they’ve pulled it off perfectly. They’re currently taking bookings for Christmas parties, so get calling on 01733 342800.

Add a little James Bond flair to your celebrations at the Wortley Almshouses on Westgate, where landlord and landlady Alex and Sheena will be hosting a Casino Night on New Year’s Eve. All games are just for fun and no real money will be being played with. Entry’s £5, but a buffet will be provided and the drinks are some of the best value in town.

COMPETITION

WIN A FAMILY TICKET FOR 4 WORTH £120 FOR HOLIDAY ON ICE ENERGIA is the latest fantastic show from the Holiday On Ice team and it’s heading for the Peterborough Exec exhibition centre at the East of England Showground next year from February 3 – 6.

ENERGIA is an exhilarating journey through space and time from the world’s most visited ice show featuring scintillating choreography, magnificent costumes representing the planets and constellations and all the living creatures of the Earth. Watch in amazement as skaters attempt the perilous death spiral, attempt back flips, triple axles and throw jumps. It’s a show that will thrill and enthral from the minute you sit in your seats to the mind-blowing finale!

Tickets range from £24 to £30 with all children at £12 (subject to booking fee). Group discounts available. Booking Hotline: 0844 581 1315 or visit Peterborough Destination Centre, Bridge Street. www.holidayonice.co.uk For a chance to win a family ticket for four, worth £120, to the 7.30pm performance on February 3 just text or email the word ICE along with your name, age, address and phone number.

Usual competition rules apply, there is no cash alternative, winners will be notified, entries must be in by 20/12/10.

TEXT HOTLINE

07762 147679 EMAIL: COMPETITION@ESPMAG.CO.UK Standard charges apply

Need a night out? Lara Johnson has the ESP guide to the best shows around…

MILTON JONES @ MAMA LIZ’S Best known for his appearances on Mock The Week and QI, comedian Milton Jones is making a special Christmas appearance at Mama Liz’s in Stamford on December 16. He’s the biggest name in Voodoo Stands Up history, and his unique gags are guaranteed to tickle the fans. Doors open at 8pm, and tickets are £15. Advance booking is highly advised! For more info, you can visit their website, or call 01780 765888.

A WORKHOUSE CHRISTMAS JIMMY CARR @ THE CRESSET Master of stand-up comedy Jimmy Carr is returning to the Cresset this December with another fantastic show. After a knock out show earlier in the year, Jimmy Carr is touring with his ninth solo show, Laughter Therapy. So fans, be prepared for non-stop jokes, gags and some serious banter, as he’ll have audiences in stitches all night!

Make sure you book your tickets now as it’s sure to be a sell out. He’ll be at the Cresset on December 4 at 7pm and 10pm. Tickets are £25. Box office: 01733 265705.

This traditional Christmas story for all the family has been transformed into a walkabout show around Peterborough’s historic museum. Jumped Up Theatre presents traditional Christmas carols as they bring this Victorian story to life.

The Community Choir will lead audiences around the museum, telling the tale of a man’s love story, from rural courtship to city workhouse. This unique show is directed

by Kate Hall, whose last production Our Nobby went down a treat with audiences in the city centre. A Workhouse Christmas will be performed from December 10 – 19.

Tickets are £8.50 on 01733 207239.

THAT’LL BE THE DAY CHRISTMAS SPECIAL This Christmas variety style production will take audiences on a festive trip down memory lane, with loads of great hits, plenty of comedy and nostalgia. The show will feature rock ‘n’ roll tunes from the 50s through to the 80s – including everyone’s favourite festive hits. Director and creator Trevor Payne will be taking a starring role in the production, so watch out for a brilliant performance. It’ll be hitting the Cresset stage on December 10 at 7.30pm. Tickets are £20.50. Box office: 01733 265705.

POP GOES THE 80s

TOM’S MIDNIGHT GARDEN

The perfect event for office parties or you and your mates is back by popular demand at Stamford Corn Exchange with a unique Christmas Spectacular version of the show.

There’ll be a barrage of 80s festive classics, such as Last Christmas, Do They Know It’s Christmas, and all your favourite hits from the 80s. This non stop show will have you singing along to the likes of Bananarama, Michael Jackson, Madness, Bon Jovi, Wham and many more. Or if you fancy a meal and a show, then you can do just that at the Bengal Clipper and the Bombay Cottage. Sound good? It’s on December 10 at 8pm, tickets £15. For more info, call 01780 766455.

SHOWADDYWADDY Something for all you rock ‘n’ roll fans is on the cards this Christmas! Enjoy an evening with 70s favourites Showaddywaddy in concert. With 23 hit singles, including the Top 5 hits Under The Moon Of Love, When, I Wonder Why and Three Steps to Heaven they’ll have you rockin’ the place! The demand is high even today so they’re back with an unbelievable live show, with some great music that will get your toes tapping at this special Christmas performance. They’ll be at Stamford Corn Exchange on December 11 at 7.30pm.

Tickets £17.50. Box office: 01780 766455.

ARABIAN NIGHTS Join the theatre of Widdershins as they take audiences on an exciting journey through roasting deserts, markets and seas. Using puppets, masks and fantastic story telling, they welcome you to the world of Arabian Nights! This show is perfect for all the family, so be prepared for flying carpets, camels and genies. Arabian Nights will be on at Stamford Arts Centre on December 18 at 2pm.

Tickets start at £6.50, or £20 for a family ticket. Box office: 01780 763203. www.esp m ag .co.u k ( De ce mber )

The Image Musical Theatre presents this fascinating and magical production, which tells the famous tale of Tom who enters a magical garden where he’s taken back in time. Tom’s based in the 1950s, and Hatty, who he meets in the garden lives in the 1890s.

Both characters are children desperately in need of friendship and both spend their time playing in the garden. Children will have the opportunity to take part in the show, so it’s great family theatre! It’ll be shown at Stamford Arts Centre on December 4 at 2pm. Tickets are £6.50, £24 for the family. Box office: 01780 763203.

HAMLET Popular theatre company Oddsocks is returning to the Stahl Theatre in Oundle for a humorous family friendly production of Hamlet, with a modern twist! It’ll be accompanied with music from the guitarist from Jamiroquai, as the young student prince returns home for Christmas to discover something rotten. His mum’s married Uncle Claudius, and his dead dad makes a ghostly appearance – enough to make any teenager go mad. Expect plenty of laughs in this 21st century tale of teenage angst! It’ll be performed on December 9 at 7.30pm. Tickets are £16, £40 for the family. For more info, call 01832 274734.

PANTO TIME!

JACK AND THE BEANSTALK Be prepared for a mighty tale full of magic and adventure this Christmas. Jack And The Beanstalk will feature a mammoth range of musical hits and a talented array of performers to make sure you enjoy a great show. All the elements of panto will be there, along with loads of action and adventure for the kids from the start.

The special effects are designed to mesmerize the audience, and the catchy songs and exciting storyline follows Jack’s amazing adventure up the beanstalk. It’s on at the Key Theatre from December 9 – January 9 at selected times. Tickets start at £9.50. Make sure you get booking now, call the box office on 01733 207239.

SLEEPING BEAUTY Polka Dot theatre presents this exciting fairytale in association with the South Holland Centre in Spalding.

The hugely talented cast will show off their dazzling costumes and superb songs as they reenact the story of the cursed Sleeping Beauty. The wicked fairy Vistana cursed the baby princess so that when she reached 18, she’d prick her finger on a spinning wheel and fall into an enchanted sleep. It’s on from December 9 – January 2. Tickets start at £10.50. Box office: 01775 764777.

A CHRISTMAS CAROL A wonderful new production of A Christmas Carol is coming to the Stamford Corn Exchange this December.

Audiences will get to meet all the well known characters from Tiny Tim to Mr and Mrs Fezziwig as the Chapterhouse Theatre Company brings us this festive show. Miserable Ebenezer Scrooge is whisked away on a terrifying journey through the past and into the future on the most magical night of the year, in a bid to make him realise the true meaning of Christmas. Expect beautiful period costume, songs and dance routines, as Scrooge’s heart begins to melt and embraces the Christmas spirit. It’s on December 9 at 1pm and 7.30pm. Tickets are £10. Box office: 01780 766455.

ENTERTAINMENT

OH YES… IT’S

entertainment @espmag.co.uk

CINDERELLA Another fun-filled panto is taking to the stage this Christmas. Chaplins Pantos are performing Cinderella at Stamford Arts Centre where they aim to delight every audience! It’ll be packed full of comedy, excitement and adventure as the horrible step sisters try to keep Cinderella from going to the ball, where Prince Charming is waiting for her. This is traditional panto at its best! It’s on January 8 at 2pm and 6pm.

Tickets are £7, or £25 for the family. Box office: 01780 763203.

EVENTS

Liv Slater has the ESP round up of the best local events…

LAUREN LIGHTS UP QUEENSGATE Lovely Lauren Hughes our Face of ESP joined Kev and Ros from Heart FM’s breakfast show to switch on the Queensgate Christmas lights.

The shopping centre was packed with shoppers keen to see the switch on which included Posh players Mark Little and Joe Lewis, Sportacus and Stephanie from LazyTown, the Key’s panto dame from Jack An The Beanstalk and of course Santa himself!

During December Queensgate will be open until 9pm on weekdays and until 7pm on Saturdays, with free parking after 5.30pm – the perfect chance to get your shopping out of the way while avoiding the crowds! There’ll be choirs performing and the Salvation Army Brass Band will be playing on December 4, 11 and 18. www.queensgate-shopping.co.uk

CHRISTMAS GIFT & CRAFT FAYRE The Parent and Staff Association at The King’s School Peterborough are holding a Christmas Gifts And Crafts Fayre to raise funds for the Outlook Expedition. It’ll be on from November 26 – 27 at the King’s School on Park Road. So make sure you pop along and you might pick up some unique gifts for Christmas! For more info contact Angela Radjenovic on 07806 872912 or angela4@ntlworld.com.

Photo: Dave Porter

events @espmag.co.uk

WHAT A STAR! Despite saying she suffers from vertigo our Face of ESP Lauren Hughes bravely joined the deputy Mayor Bella Saltmarsh to top this year’s Christmas tree in Cathedral Square. Lauren Hughes helped pop the star on top just days before the big lights switch on. Maybe it was huddling up next to a firefighter that clinched it for her!

EVERGREEN GIFTS Escape the commercial side of Christmas at the Green Backyard, on the corner of Oundle Road and London Road, on December 12 (originally it was scheduled for December 11) where they’ll be hosting a Christmas fair. Local artists will be selling pieces and local craft people will be doing likewise. Expect an eclectic mix of products – the only criteria for stall holders is that everything on sale must be the product of their own hands!

Demonstrations and workshops will be taking place, as well as live music by the bonfire and some festive mulled wine will be available. For more info call 07834 815943 or email thegreenbackyard@hotmail.co.uk

STAMFORD-ON-ICE Stamford’s Christmas Festival is even bigger and better this year and takes place on December 12.

For the first time, there’ll be an ice rink in Stamford, situated on Broad Street and open from 10am – 4pm. At 1pm there’ll be a fancy dress competition with Rutland Radio and a local celeb judging. As well as this, there’ll be a whole host of stalls selling food and drink, arts and crafts and much, much more. Santa will be here with his helpers and also a fun fair, to keep the kids entertained while you shop. While the ice rink costs – families can get reduced tickets – entry to the Festival itself is free.

For more info on the fancy dress competition call 01572 757868 or email enquiries@rutlandradio.co.uk, and for enquires about the Christmas Festival, contact alihs@stamfordtownpartnership.co.uk or see www.visitstamford.com/XMAS

GIFTS AND GOALS The Peterborough Phantoms will be hosting their annual Air The Bear charity night on December 5, when they’ll also be facing local rivals, Milton Keynes Lightening. The idea is every spectator brings along a cuddly toy which, when the Phantoms score their first goal, are launched onto the ice. The cute creatures are then collected and donated to a worthy cause.

The team are now well into the season and are off to a good start, sitting just behind the leading group. With a new coach, Curtis Cruickshank, in charge and a handful of new players, they held on to the Ashes Trophy after defeating Milton Keynes Lightening and have won seven of their fourteen league games. This month the Phantoms are also playing against the Guildford Flames on December 12 and the Fife Flyers on December 19.

LAUREN AND LIONS HELP EACH Last month, new Face of ESP Lauren Hughes went down to EACH’s Milton Hospice for a rugby day with Peterborough Lions Rugby Team. Coach Richard Parsons took the siblings of the seriously sick children for a day packed full of fun activities. As EACH looks after seriously ill children with both chronic and terminal illnesses, not only did this give their parents a chance to rest but also it gave the brothers and sisters the chance to forget their stresses for a day.

Lauren told us – “I’d like to thank all the children and people who attended which enabled this day to go ahead. I met some amazing children and would like to help as much as I can in supporting EACH.” If you’d like the chance to get involved, EACH are holding a Santa Run on December 5 at Ferry Meadows, Peterborough. Lauren told us – “I’ll be taking part in the event and would love to see you down there supporting EACH.” All ages and abilities welcome, entry £10 for all adults, £5 for kids which includes a free Santa costume. For more info call 01223 205180 or visit www.each.org.uk.

WATCH MAYOR’S ICE-CAPADES Face of ESP Lauren Hughes will be getting her skates on at the Peterborough Phantoms Mayor’s Charities Night on December 1. She’ll be joined by local celebs, business people and the Mayor himself to play a game of ice hockey. As none of the people taking part can barely skate, it’s always one of the funniest nights of the year – people falling over is a joke that just doesn’t get old! Everyone playing has raised at least £150 for the Mayor’s chosen charities. Admission to watch the game is £3 for adults, £1 for children. For more info call 01733 260222 or visit www.peterboroughphantoms.com www.esp m ag .co.u k ( De ce mber )

CINDERELLA NO MORE Fancy a fairytale Christmas? Get glammed up for the Christmas Ball at Stamford Arts Centre on December 18. An evening of ballroom and latin dance led by professional dancer Ann Gibbons, it’ll be held in the gorgeous ballroom. A finger buffet’s available, the bar’s open all night and all abilities are welcome – the only condition is that you don’t wear stiletto heels! Tickets £12.50. Box office: 01780 763203.

LIGHT UP THEIR LIVES Sue Ryder Care at Thorpe Hall are hosting their annual Lights Of Love event on December 5. There’ll be an outdoor carol service, children’s games, a chance to visit Santa, miniature train rides, mulled wine, mince pies and lots of Christmas cheer! The whole evening is a chance to remember loved ones and show support for those currently in the hospice and it all ends with a massive firework finale. Entry’s free and for more info contact Jackie or Julie on 01733 330060.

AN EXPLOSIVE EVENING Firework Fiesta, held last month at Ferry Meadows Country Park, was a roaring success, with the clear skies and lack of rain meaning that even more people came along to see the live bands, Connect FM roadshow, bonfire and of course, the fabulous fireworks! The ESP team were there handing out goodie bags and spokesman Tony Cronin told us –“Even though we’ve not counted up the money raised for charity this year, we can tell it was a record-breaking year. It’s been one of our biggest successes and biggest crowds – and more importantly, no one got hurt!”

CRAFTY, CONTEMPORARY AND COOL Merge Contemporary Craft Fair will be coming to The Queen Victoria Hall, Oundle, on December 11. With around 25 crafts-people selling ceramics, glass, flame worked jewellery, silver jewellery, textiles, woodwork furniture and carving, turning, and even some dress makers, this is a great chance to pick up handmade goods and gifts with a modern feel. Entry’s free.

THE BROADWAY’S BACK What a Christmas present – the Broadway Theatre’s re-opening in February 2011 with street dance act Flawless, stars of Streetdance 3D and Britain’s Got Talent.

The Broadway Theatre is being reopened as part of a planned series of acquisitions by the StageLive Group, a new and independent theatre owner and operator.

Paul Parker, CEO of StageLive told ESP – “We’re hugely excited about the tickets going on sale for The Broadway Theatre’s very first season as part of the StageLive family. We’ve programmed a wide variety of shows and hope that you’ll find something to suit all tastes and ages. We can’t wait to welcome audiences through the doors of the new-look Broadway Theatre in February 2011.”

You can now book for a whole range of diverse and exciting productions that include Blood Brothers, Annie, Steve Harley Cockney Rebel, Chippendales, Chuckle Brothers, Gruffalo, Horrible Histories, Blues Brothers, Jungle Book, Spirit of the Dance and Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. We can’t wait!

Phone 0844 850 0850 or go in person to the venue, book online at www.the broadwaytheatre.co.uk, via post and from the city’s Visitor Destination Centre.

114 Four Chimneys Crescent, Hampton Vale, Peterborough PE7 8FH Tel:01733 241246

The city lights up Crowds packed Peterborough city centre as the Christmas lights switch on returned to its rightful place in Cathedral Square – and what a day!

The entertainment started with ESP and Westgate Department Store’s fabulous Festive Fashion Show. The ESP Dance Crew kicked off proceedings and then our models, including Face of ESP Lauren Hughes, took to the catwalk for the show compered by ESP’s Sarah Tempest and our style guru Sue Donnelly.

Photos: Dave Porter, 07752 232425, www.daveporterphotography.co.uk and Mike Harris for ESP

Gregg Nunney from local radio station Connect FM hosted the switch on organised by Peterborough City Council and sponsored by Westgate Department Store. It included singers and bands throughout the day with stars of shows coming to the Broadway Theatre next year – the Wizard Of Oz and Joseph – joining in with the big switch on.

www.esp m ag .co.u k ( De ce mber )

From 1ST dEC unTil 23rd dEC

FEstiVE lunCh nothing evokes a true feeling of Christmas more than a delicious festive lunch with your work colleagues or friends and family. Within the relaxed atmosphere of our restaurant you will be served timeless Christmas dishes complemented by our highly attentive service. available 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 6th, 7th, 9th, 10th, 14th, 15th, 16th, 17th, 20th, 22nd and 23rd december. £12.95 per person Just 2 miles from the centre of Peterborough, the Holiday Inn Peterborough West is one of the city's most prestigious hotels, fully air conditioned and situated opposite an excellent 18-hole golf course and some 500 acres of beautiful parkland. With our recent refurbishment, our contemporary restaurant has an excellent reputation, as has the hotel's Club Moativation with pool, spa, sauna, steam room, aerobics, beauty treatment, solarium and gym. Golf at Thorpe Wood course opposite the hotel can be pre-booked.

Holiday Inn Peterborough West Thorpewood, Peterborough PE3 6SG

SaTurday 25TH dECEmbEr

Christmas Day lunCh bring along the family and enjoy a traditional Christmas day lunch, served in the relaxed atmosphere of our restaurant. We will greet you with a glass of bucks Fizz and a selection of canapés on arrival, followed by a sumptuous six course lunch. Santa will also be making a visit with a gift for each child. £55 per adult, £19.50 per child under 12 years, free for children under 5 years.

Friday 31ST dECEmbEr

Tel: 01733 289900 www.holidayinn.co.uk

nEW yEar's EVE Family DinnEr Enjoy a new year's Eve dinner and disco with friends and family. We will be serving a sumptuous hot and cold festive buffet with a disco, all in a family friendly environment. £55 per adult, £13.50 per child under 12 years, free for children under 5 years.

Friday 31ST dECEmbEr

nEW yEar’s EVE Gala DinnEr make the biggest party of the year go with a bang! Enjoy a celebration that goes on ’til the wee small hours as you ring in 2011 with great music from our resident dJ barrie John, a fun casino, tempting food and a brilliant atmosphere. £80.00 per person

WOMEN PANTS AT WEARING BOUGHT CLOTHES

Pep Cipriano

MAN

A survey for discountvouchers.co.uk revealed 67 per cent of women have bought clothes and never worn them. What a waste of money. Men are far more economical with clothes. I own seven pairs of pants. I bought my last pair from the market in 2006 and I’ve been wearing my current pair for two days.

about

TOWN pep.cipriano@espmag.co.uk

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CITY’S NEW ERA OF GROWTH AND INVESTMENT Werrington is another that’s under new management and looking good.

As for the city centre, the much-needed resurrection of the former The Bar venue as Halo has given that end of town a sharp injection of people and atmosphere.

And so has the recent £250k refurbishment of Liquid, which I popped in to have a peak at too.

The mini ‘strip’ along New Road is set for an even bigger boost with the opening of Jimmy Spices. This national chain of buffet-style eating will be operating from the former Praise location and once it’s open expect to enjoy good quality Indian, Chinese, Thai and Italian food at respectable prices.

And if it’s Mexican food you like, we’ve had Chimichanga open in Church Street and the relaunch of Flamas in Hampton. Residents there will soon be spoilt for choice when national Mexican restaurant chain Chiquito is ready for business.

Face of ESP, Lauren Hughes, on a tasting mission at North East Corner

I could really do with every page in the entire magazine to write about how Peterborough is beginning to turn the corner and offer businesses and people opportunities like it once did in the late 1980s, when it was one of the fastest growing cities in the UK. The prospect of 2011 is exciting me. It’s been another challenging year for businesses as they’ve fought to keep afloat in a tough economy but there’s a light at the end of the tunnel and the city’s making a beeline for it.

A closer look at the night-time economy reveals things aren’t as bad as some would think. We’ve already seen successful re-launches and new management takeovers of pubs including the Beehive, the Grapevine, Wortley Almshouses and one or two others outside the city centre too.

One of the most recent is the Fitzwilliam Arms (best known as the Green Man) at Marholm. I’ve always liked this place and I’m glad it’s undergone a huge refit, so pleased in fact I popped to the re-launch with my camera (see the Paparazzi page). The Cock Inn at

Staying on the food theme and at the other end of town we’ve already seen Malayba open on Broadway and provide us with fine Malaysian cuisine. Around the corner in Westgate is another gem of a restaurant if you’re into your Indian food. The Banyan Tree should soon be trading from where Bar Bloc used to be and I’m pleased these guys have done as Imperial Bento did, bringing their excellent offering to the city centre (The Banyan Tree is also in Werrington).

At the other end of Westgate is something quite the opposite but just as appealing. North East Corner, like the Banyan Tree, opened in November and I went along to snap Face of ESP Lauren Hughes on a foodtasting mission. I like this place – it’s kind of unique. I also like the potential it has but more about that in a future issue.

The name North East Corner may sound a bit puzzling (it’s not a corner plot) and you may also be scratching your head as to why dead actor Peter Sellers and city council cabinet member Gavin Elsey are just two of a selection of sign written names that adorn the walls.

Ask owner Andy Moore for an explanation!

There’s a no-nonsense food policy here – that’s its appeal. It’s a chargrill eatery with a selection of fresh fish, steaks, chicken and vegetarian dishes on offer.

For breakfast you can have a traditional English fry-up or go for the continental option. It’s open for lunch and in the evening too. Best of all, after 11pm it’s a place where you can grab a burger and a beer. I’m liking the music also – stylish, cool and good for digestion.

It’s all happening on Broadway too with news of two important venues set to re-open in 2011. There are plans to pull down the conservatory part of the former Baccara building and replace it with a new bar and a balcony terrace with seating for around 60 people.

Sounds very cosmopolitan – let’s hope it comes to fruition.

Brilliant news is the Broadway Theatre is back in business too. The new owner really knows his stuff and is promising to bring some great shows to our fine city, with dance group Flawless opening the theatre in February.

Let’s not forget the welcome arrival of TK Maxx who’ll be taking over the former Woolworths building next spring. This is proof we can attract and secure big name retailers and it will of course, like all the other developments, bring with it plenty of job opportunities.

To top it all off the city council have given us a helping hand to grab discounts and other offers at participating shops, hairdressing and beauty salons, restaurants, hotels and leisure attractions with the launch of the Pcard.

Offering typical discounts of around 10 per cent on purchases, it’ll cost you a mere £5 a year to get your hands on one from the Visitor Destination Centre on Bridge Street.

The Pcard helps to ensure businesses enjoy a continual flow of repeat custom and it’s a great way to grow our economy and introduce people to some of the exciting new ventures our city is showcasing in the coming months.

SUPPPORT RETURN OF RADIO PETERBOROUGH It was great to get back on air with presenter Keith Dalton on Radio Peterborough and it’ll be even better for the both of us and the whole city if the station can secure a full time license.

Listeners can play their part by emailing their messages of support to studio@radiopeterborough.co.uk or writing to: Peter Tibbs, Programme Controller, Radio Peterborough, Chauffeurs Cottage, St Peter’s Road, PE1 1YX. Once these guys secure the airwaves indefinitely we’ll see the return of a live, weekly sports show like no other – hosted by yours truly and Phil ‘eyes always closed in photos’ Adlam. www.esp m ag .co.u k ( De ce mber )

CAUGHT IN THE ACT!

Mark Litt le I have on (Posh defender): e too man “This alw ay y officer): “Phew, he J20s.” Phil Adlam s happens when re’s me th (P inking I’d osh press have to bl ow on it.”

Mistletoe

MY WORD OF THE MONTH

Festive season misery or joy? Mistletoe can be the catalyst for both and means: Christmas, green, slap, snog, pull, party, separation, single, grope, tree, Pound shop, desperate, risk, balance, Frenchy, flirt, bone, decorations, cunning, trapped, divorce, sick, tug, stockings, rash, saliva, opportunity and dumped.

BEN N BOOTS PANTO AT BALDERSTON Ever wondered how a BMW technician gets his kicks at the weekend? Take a look at the sexy boots on Ben – the only sober Balderston Motorcycles team member on a work night out!

Book now for a

FrEE 15 mins trial

The crew kicked off their evening with a tasty meal at the Beehive before heading to the Cherry Tree and Charters. A few drinks later and the BMW guys were competing in piggyback races up and down the steps of the Town Hall.

This was followed by a rummage through a skip to find a missing member of the party!

But none of this topped Ben expertly modeling BMW’s clothing and accessory adviser Michelle’s boots as if he was working a catwalk – clearly it wasn’t the first time in high heels for him…

The party (with Michelle’s boots returned) wrapped up their night at the College Arms and the Ostrich.

So if you’re after a pair of winter riding boots, pop into their Hampton showroom and ask Ben to model a pair that’s on offer as part of the Motorrad starter kit. It includes a two-piece jacket and trousers, gloves, boots and a sport helmet – all for just £860.

There’s also a winter warmer kit for only £100 where you get thermo underwear (shirt and trousers), socks, neck tube and silk undergloves (I need a pair).

Riders can be safe and seen this winter with a fluorescent kit that’s on offer too. For more details and Christmas and New Year opening times give Balderston a bell on 01733 565470 or visit www.balderston.net

• • • • • • •

Special events available including, stag nights, corporate events and birthday parties.

License bar and food available Sky TV Discount structure available Open 7 days a week See our website for more details Booking essential

ENGLAND V IRELAND BOXING CONTEST AT THE CRESSET The popular series of Smackdown Promotions Ltd semi-professional boxing shows will sign off the year with an England versus Ireland boxing event at the Cresset in Bretton on Saturday December 11.

Expect to see around 14 action-packed contests and six title fights from local lads and fighters travelling to the city with a point to prove. These bouts are always explosive and compulsive viewing for fight fans.

CIAOS OUT:

Ringside tables for 10 people and seated tables at £30 a ticket are still available. Call the ticket hotline on: 07923 235531.

• • • • • •

Megan – is KFC and Belgian buns romantic? X Toni – how's the recovery going?

Anna – life update please Linzi – long time no speak…

Bru – ring Rob and Tony – see you New Year's Eve Dave (mush) – can I pap the big day?

01733 202604 Funthams lane, Kingsdyke,Whittlesey, Peterborough PE7 2PA golf@peterboroughvirtualgolf.co.uk • www.peterboroughvirtualgolf.co.uk

Exclusive stockists of Thomas Sabo jewellery in Peterborough

Lauren gets to choose her perfect Outfit Lucky Lauren Hughes won £500 to spend on gorgeous gear at Outfit at Serpentine Green when she became the Face of ESP – and she’s been spoilt for choice.

The great thing about Outfit is that it has top fashion brands all under one roof so you don’t have to wander too far to shop ’til you drop at concessions like Topshop and Topman, Warehouse, Dorothy Perkins, Wallis, Miss Selfridge and Burton for the boys. Two new names have just been introduced in store too – Fuse and Bambini – plus there’s a great array of Christmas gifts and glorious shoes. Always a big favourite with our Face of ESP who’s adding to her collection of over 80 pairs!

Go glamorous this party season with frills, beading and sumptuous fur to look oh so cuddly and gorgeous!

For great party wear there are some gorgeous glitzy little numbers and LBDs as well as a fabulous range of accessories to truly make you sparkle. From floral and vintage themes to animal prints or sequins they’re bang on trend.

Serpentine Green Shopping Centre Hampton. Tel: 01733 565019 www.esp m ag .co.u k ( De ce mber )

FASHION Xmas Eve Party

Xmas Shopping

fashion @espmag.co.uk

Jacket, Vero Moda £48 Jeans, Gas £115 Top, Only £22

Dress (Ruffle) Vero Moda £34

www.esp m ag .co.u k ( De ce mber )

Office Xmas Lunch

New Year’s Eve

Dress Vero Moda £24

Festive

Cardigan Vero Moda £18

FA S H I O N

Top Selected Femme £11.97

Whether you’re Christmas shopping and meeting the girls for a coffee or getting ready to party, Westgate Department Store has all the gear to make you stand out this festive season. With some great new brands like Vero Moda, Esprit Collection, Gas, Noa Noa and Yumi as well as a fantastic range of accessories you can go from day to Christmas night with ease.

Come on girls, let’s get this party (season) started!

Hair: Keryy @ P.Kai. Make-up: Andrea Connor 07801 987905

It’s the time of year for living it up and looking good – and Face of ESP Lauren Hughes is definitely doing that!

Skirt Vero Moda £30

www.es p mag .co.u k ( De cember )

Matt

S Zilch T A M F O R DCALLING matt.zilch@espmag.co.uk

GET READY FOR STAMFORD CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL I can’t wait for Stamford town centre to be transformed big style for the big Christmas street festival once again and organiser Ali Hawley-Smith says Stamford Town Partnership is bringing plenty to the party this year!

On Sunday December 12 Broad Street, Ironmonger Street, High Street and Red Lion Square will be full of festive cheer with over 100 exhibitors and trade stalls selling everything from festive food to Christmas crafts.

Broad Street, High Street and Ironmonger Street will be closed from 6pm Saturday December 11 to 11pm Sunday December 12. Red Lion Square will be closed from 6am on Sunday December 12 until 7pm so expect a few diversions – but hey, it’ll be worth it!

A huge line-up of entertainment is planned which should keep all the family happy and the big news is that for the first time there’ll be an ice rink! There’ll also be a rodeo reindeer ride and sumo suit games plus children’s fun fair, Santa’s grotto hosted by the Lions group, Phoenix Charity Shetland Ponies, spectacular horse and carriage rides plus all the street entertainers, dancers and singers. Sounds great!

SO THIS IS CHRISTMAS… AGAIN! My favourite time of year, and as I finally finish the hard work of touring I step into a very different set of shoes to do... Oh yes, you guessed it, panto at the Key Theatre! And this year it’s Jack and the Beanstalk. The show will be running from December 9 through to January 9.

So, back to my home town and what’s good to do in Stamford over Christmas? Here are some ideas I’ve come up with...

If you’re looking for a great family night out why not pop along to the Corn Exchange and see A Christmas Carol which is playing from Thursday December 9 at 1pm and 7.30pm. Tickets are £10, concessions £8 (group booking 15 and over £6 for the 1pm show). Call 01780 766455.

For those of you wanting a night out with friends The Periwig is always going to be a Christmas winner, and they’ll still be doing their Pounded nights on Wednesdays and Thursdays over Christmas.

If it’s an afternoon out for a good old traditional Christmas lunch then try out The Dolphin, for great food and a great atmosphere!

If you’re up for some great live music on December 27 the Green Man has Jez Hellard and The Roving Blades. Jez and his ten piece band play music from traditional folk songs, to hip hop, via jazz, blues, country, soul, rock ‘n’ roll, bluegrass and whatever you care to throw at him!

The Toreador is holding a big Christmas party on December 23 with yours truly – Matt Zilch and The Meizters seeing the town into Christmas Eve. Plus I’m very pleased to say support comes from Stamford’s top new band The Harrington Blues. This will be the lads’ second gig and I might even be making an appearance on stage with them for a number!

For anyone wanting to have a proper club night out then Central’s the place – you could get yourselves filmed at the Ibiza Uncovered night on Saturday December 4 and if you’re a Ministry of Sound fan, catch The Wideboys’ DJ set on Saturday December 18.

And of course on New Year’s Eve if you’re looking for live entertainment you have the fantastic Dead Rabbits playing Mama Liz’s Voodoo Lounge with a buffet and champagne ticket option, or you can come to the Pear Tree and see my band the Meizters and see the new year in that way!

Visit www.visitstamford.com/XMAS for more info.

STAMFORD PAPARAZZI Pep Cipriano and the ESP girls Danni and Alannah hit Central and Browns. Check out the rest of the pics at www.espmag.co.uk

www.esp m ag .co.u k ( De ce mber )

GooD musiC - GooD DEals - GooD timEs

SATURDAY 18th DECEMBER

THE WIDEBOYS dJ Set. Fresh off the heals of the massive ministry of Sound album – addicted To bass & Worldwide Tours. The Wideboys are in action live at Central with the biggest bassline and funky cut ups. 10pm-3am

CHRISTMAS EVE

SEXY SANTA PARTY FrEE SHoT To all SEXy SanTa GirlS! 8Pm-3am

NEW YEARS EVE

UV BLACKOUT PARTY 8Pm-4am. Full uV dECor & uV GiVEaWayS. FrEE SHoT To all uV / nEon FanCy drESS

BROWNES EVERY NIGHT

£1 Drinks

£1 a drInK - VK / CarlSBerG / VS flaVoUrS / WIld SHooterS / doUBle UP SPIrItS WED & THURSDAY - ALL NIGHT FRIDAY - TILL 10.30 ( 3 bottles £5 after ) SATURDAY - till 10 ( 3 bottles £5 after ) BROWNES - THE ORIGINAL PARTY VENUE

Call for VIP Hen and BIrtHday entry

R.O.A.R – management reserve the right to withdraw promotions and nights without prior notice – over 18s only. Join our Facebook group.

www.centralnightclub.com

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.

Gym Facilities:

NO join or admining fee FREE 7 d ay trial Open 7 Days

• Cardiovascular Spinning • EFree and Hammer Strength • GroupWeights • BoxingTraining Gym and MMA floor • Check website for gym membership and special offers

www.fitnessstation.co.uk

363 Dogsthorpe Road, Peterborough, PE1 3RE

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.

01733 247171 www.urbanassault.org.uk www.freefirezone.co.uk email: games@urbanassault.org.uk Airsoft Shop www.fire-support.co.uk

LAUREN LIGHTS UP WITH CLINIQUE

HEALTH and beauty

charlotte.jolly@espmag.co.uk

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

Face of ESP Lauren Hughes had the delight of switching on the Queensgate Christmas lights recently. To ensure she sparkled just like the lights themselves the lovely girls at the John Lewis Clinique counter gave her a glamorous makeover prior to the big switch on.

To help bring out the red tones in Lauren’s hair and to compliment her warm skin tone Laura at Clinique decided to use some deliciously rich chocolate brown shades across her eyes – their eyeshadow quad in Spicy, £23.50, which is perfect for this time of year. This was followed by lashings of their best selling High Definition mascara, £14.50, which really does give a full lash look. Sunset Glow blush for her cheeks really left Lauren with that healthy holiday season colour.

GET THE LOOK OF LUXURY WITH AVON Avon’s new luxe Lace Collection is proving ever popular with their fabulous formulas and beautiful limited edition lacy packaging. With lace featuring greatly on the winter catwalks it’s no surprise it’s been such a big hit, creating a mysterious look with a sexy edge which simply demands attention.

Their Nailwear Pro Nail Enamel in Wicked is, well, wickedly seductive with shine that lasts up to 10 days whilst the Luxe Lace True Colour eyeshadow quads allow you to create the ultimate smoky eye by blending and layering the intense colours. For the perfect evening look the purple and grey shades in the Lace Electric quad are ideal and at just £5 you can’t go wrong.

Contact your Avon representative or order online at www.avon.uk.com

CHRISTMAS BEAUTY CRACKERS Laura finished off Lauren’s look by using Kissy Fit long lasting lip-gloss, giving Lauren’s lips a super shiny highgloss look with just the right amount of colour. Perfect for the upcoming party season.

Clinique Limited Edition Strawberry Fudge holiday compact, priced just £25, containing three shimmering eyeshadow shades in soft pink, chocolate brown and dark slate as well as a pretty pink powder blusher in New Clover is also ideal for the Christmas period and would make an ideal gift. The sleek compact looks good and fits perfectly in your handbag so you can touch up throughout the day or night.

Lauren loved being made up and said – “I always love having my make-up done and feel so glamorous afterwards. It gives me the added confidence I need when going to different events knowing I look good helping to portray the image I need. The products didn’t make me feel covered in make-up, I still felt natural and felt the products accentuated my features which is what the majority of women want when wearing make-up.” www.esp m ag .co.u k ( De ce mber )

Check out these must-have beauty gifts to make sure you, your friends and family look and feel wonderful this winter....

Estée Lauder’s Professional Makeup Artist Colour Collection 2010 looks glamorous and contains more products than ever before, including a gold eyeshadow palette with 18 different shades, a face palette compact, brushes and even a metallic make-up pouch. It can all be yours for just £45 with any Estée Lauder fragrance purchase.

Lush has a whole selection of festive gifts but I just love their traditional looking Christmas Allsorts £9.95. It contains three different festive bath fizzers and if that isn’t enough for you then the cute circular box makes for hours of fun.... simply twist the lid round to change the characters’ heads!

Great for both girls and boys.

Know someone who deserves some much needed quality ‘me time’ and not sure what to get them for Christmas? Look no further than Tesco Spa Relax Gift Box, £5. This pamper pack is perfect to help anyone relax and gently soothes away your troubles. With a body wash and lotion, amongst other products, gently infused with lavender, they really do leave you with a sense of well-being and calm.

The Body Shop Special Edition Sparkler, just £10, is no less than amazing! I simply adore this product and its pretty pink packaging. Simply squeeze the vintage style pump to release a fine, shimmery powder which can be used to highlight the face, body and hair. But, be quick girls if you want to get your hands on one of these as they’re selling out fast in Queensgate and it’s a limited edition.

Established since 1992, Emilio Hair Design is one of the city’s leading professional hair salons with a team of fully qualified staff and a personal service that’s second to none.

• Open – Tues & Wed 10am- 6.30pm, Thurs 10am-8pm, Fri 9am-6pm, Sat 9am-5pm, closed Mondays • Ample free parking available • Flexible appointments • Call now to book your appointment (please quote ESP)

Tue, Wed, Thurs with a selected designer receive a full consultation, cut & finish and refreshments for only £20.

Colours also available please ask for more details.

Brazilian Blowdry treatment also available

01733 349230

2a Orton Avenue, Woodston, Peterborough, PE2 9HL Most major credit cards accepted

Taking your bridal dreams and turning them into reality Maison de la Bride is an exciting new bridal boutique with exquisite designer bridal gowns made to order. e boutique is a family run business offering a very professional service, with over 30 years combined experience.

52 Lincoln Rd, Peterborough, PE1 2RY

Telephone: 01733 346415

Situated near City Centre (opposite Clarke’s florist)

Open Tuesday – Saturday 10am-6pm, Monday by appointment only, late night appointments available.

Parking available at Queensgate, Craig Street and Westgate House.

appointment – that means you’re always guaranteed quality treatments. It also means you won’t have to worry about rearranging appointments and risk not being able to get your nails done when you need them.

All you do now is pop in and you’ll be given a ticket and you can easily see how many people are ahead of you and how long you may have to wait.”

So girls, sounds like a lovely excuse to settle into one of the comfy leather sofas and chill out reading a magazine until it’s your turn, or pop out for a coffee.

BEN’S BACK! Get ready to look gorgeous girls – the main man is back at Scarlet Nails in Serpentine Green with some hot new ideas to make your pampering experience the best ever.

Ben Nguyen originally launched this stylish, spacious salon at Hampton and now he’s returned and introduced a great new ticket system so you don’t have to make appointments.

“This means we can spend as much time as is necessary making your nails look really fabulous,” says Ben, “so there’s no rushing someone through for the next

Whether it’s gorgeous nails to make an impact for the party season, a French manicure or even a pedicure in the massage chairs, you know Scarlet Nails is the place to go for that extra special touch. Ben’s also introducing a faster drying lighting system and is adding more staff so you won’t have to wait very long.

Not only can you get your nails looking stunning with a range of OPI varnishes and funky gel nail designs, you can also add a little colour on your body too with the Sun Kissed tanning booths. These meet all the current safety standards and are well ventilated so you can keep cool while looking hot!

Tel: 01733 890689 www.scarletnails.biz

DECEMBER OFFER

FREE Oral B 2000 (Worth Toothbrush £80.00) with Enlighten Evolution Tooth Whitening Terms and conditions apply, available on request.

Get the VIP treatment

this Christmas!

Tis the season to look fabulous and city hair salon Michael John is promising to make you feel like a star! stylists and customers cool and comfortable in this busy salon with the very latest climate controlled air conditioning.

The recent luxury refit with a striking ‘rock baroque’ theme has transformed the salon and its new VIP area will certainly make you feel extra special with absolutely fabulous antique silver mirrors, ivory and black chairs, silver glass shelves and even silver gowns.

Along with the new-look salon have come some new-look services and five VIP packages that will leave you feeling starstruck! You can revamp yourself with their makeover or restyle packages, there’s a bridal special for your big day and a luxury package that includes a shampoo and conditioner called Ten – apparently tried out by celebs like Jennifer Aniston and Victoria Beckham. Ten includes White Truffle and Caspian Caviar and costs £49 for a bottle of shampoo and they also do the most amazing body lotion we’re told.

Finally there’s an extension package by Greater Length. All the packages include a fabulous intensive treatment and you receive a goody bag along with all the extra perks of being a VIP client. Now who feels like a star?

The makeover package offers a full one hour session with the company’s new make-up artist Amber, as well as ‘before’ and ‘after’ photos. Amber, their new make-up artist, will also be introducing the new Air Brushing make-up sevice for temporary body and hair art as well as make-up guaranteed to last all day and night long.

As if that’s not enough you can now

www.esp m ag .co.u k ( De ce mber )

really push the boat out with the VIP Exclusive package for the more discerning client.

All the hairdressing furniture is from Italy and was supplied by regional suppliers Ideal. Mick and Kris especially want to thank Malc at Ideal Hair and Beauty Supplies for going the extra mile to make things run as smooth as possible – “It really helped to make the experience of buying the furniture through them a real pleasure.” The luxury touches are everywhere – the basin chairs are fully electric and slide forward whilst the basin adjusts and if that wasn’t enough they also have two with full body air massage!

“Hairdressing has changed so much over the past five years let alone 10 years since we did our last refit,” explains Mick, “so for the client that likes to go the extra mile or push the boundaries a bit further and take the skills of the stylist to the maximum the new VIP Exclusive service will allow us to cater for any client’s special styling needs.

“We’ve also had Cat 5 installed so whilst you’re having your highlights done you can either surf the net or just plug in your own USB stick and catch up on some work. Microsoft Office is installed for clients wishing to use this facility.”

A fantastic team of local companies have helped salon owners Mick and Kris bring their vision for the new look salon to life.

Mick told ESP – “Chris Hart of local company Multiplumb completely started the plumbing works from scratch and has put in thermostats to control any fluctuation in temperature to make them totally safe too.”

Mick used local shopfitters Blounts and is full of praise for the high quality panelling and ceilings they’ve fitted and the salon certainly looks stunning. Peterborough company Stout Ceramics provided fabulous flooring and RS Air Conditioning in Fengate have done a great job keeping

There’s now even 24/7 online booking with text message reminders so for your next appointment call 01733 553732 or book online at www.michaeljohnhairartwork.co.uk

Well done to michael John on their recent refurbishment

stout CEramiCs tilinG spECialists

• all wall and floor tiling • Free written quotation • Est. 1992 Call BEn on:

01733 202699 moBilE: 07759 933141

www.stoutceramics.co.uk

C hristmas at

GALORE

The Glamour Galore event at Thorpe Hall was another huge success for Sue Ryder Care.

ESP supported the night and staged two mini fashion shows with Westgate Department Store showcasing the latest trends and party wear.

The ESP models were joined by two patients from the hospice, Kathleen Reilly and Linda Pope, who also modelled and were given a huge round of applause from the ladies in the crowd. ESP’s Sarah Tempest and our style guru Sue Donnelly compered the fashion shows giving style advice.

It was another great girlie night out packed with stalls selling everything from handbags to gowns, jewellery to gifts. After all that shopping the Pick Me Up Pamper Zone was very welcome as girls stopped for a massage or a quick nail treatment.

Next year it’s hoped the event will move to larger premises locally so it should be even bigger and better next November!

focus on...

Glamour Westgate Arcade

Peterborough City Centre

For fabulous festive gifts take a wander down Westgate Arcade.

This hive of independent stores has some unique items you won’t find elsewhere that will make the perfect gifts for everyone.

The Oculist has stunning designer frames, Style is a wonderland of accessories while Arkadia, Purples, Clues and C2 have some great fashions. For shoes that’ll make you stand out form the crowd try Raw, for body jewellery pop into Pulse and for Pandora and other gorgeous jewellery there’s Stephen Diggle. Express Watch Repairs not only repairs but sells stylish watches and Silver Fox is a gift heaven with loads of unusual items.

There’s everything to make you look great too – get your nails in top shape at Nail Design, get a stylish look for the party season at P.Kai hair and have your beauty and brow treatments at BB’s Brow Bar.

There are plenty of food shops too so whatever you’re after don’t forget to take a look!

oPEn 7 dayS mon - Wed 9-6.00pm Thu 9-8.00pm Fri & Sat 9-6.00pm Sun 10.30-4pm

• Extensions • manicure • acrylic, Gel Powder, Crystal Powder • Pink and White, Silk wrap • Walk ins welcome

ProFESSional amEriCan nail CarE

unit 1, Westgate arcade, Queensgate Shopping Centre Peterborough PE1 1Py Telephone: 01733 342733

Unique and Individual Jewellery and Giftware.

Selected with you in mind‌ as only an independent retailer can.

Silver Fox‌ as different as you are special.

Westgate Arcade, Peterborough Tel: 01733 552258

| A wide range of 9k & 18k gold | | Watch batteries & straps fitted while-u-wait | | Links removed within an hour | | General watch, clock & jewellery repairs |

Express Watch Repairs 21 Westgate Arcade, Peterborough Telephone 01733 310309 Specialist in pre-owned watches: Rolex, Omega, Breitling & Tag Heuer

CAUGHT IN THE ACT?

THE PAPARAZZI HIT THE FITZWILLIAM ARMS, THE GREYHOUNDS, FLARES AND REFLEX...

Pep Cipriano was on his travels capturing the party action recently and first of all he was invited along to the launch night of the newly refurbished Fitzwilliam Arms, known to many locals as the Green Man at Marholm.

Around 160 people turned out to the launch night including the Mayor and Mayoress.

The refurbished pub has a very cosy and warm feel with its new decor - perfect for the winter evenings and everything a country pub should be. Some tasters from the new menu were served on the night and appeared to be going down well.

Over at Peterborough Greyhound Stadium the place was packed with groups ranging from families to stag do's. There was the usual great atmosphere as everyone enjoyed placing a few bets and enjoyed the action on the track whether they won or lost.

Many were dining out in the Raceview restaurant and the tempting desserts were catching our Pep's eye but he managed to resist and head into town.

The city centre was buzzing but Flares and Reflex looked inviting so Pep followed a hen party inside and captured the fun as various revelers enjoyed their night in these party venues.The Christmas party spirit had clearly started early with the 70s tunes getting the crowds up and boogying in Flares, and some 80s retro classics filling the dance floor in Reflex.

VIEW PAPARAZZI ONLINE All the photos taken by the Papazazzi crew go up on our new website www.espmag.co.uk – even those we haven’t managed to fit into the mag. The photos are available to order too, so if you find any particularly embarrassing ones of your mates, you can get a copy to keep!

www.esp m ag .co.u k ( De ce mber )

Proudly sponsored by

www.es p mag .co.u k ( De cember )

CELEBS

Not only has this Irish beauty made her mark on the pop industry with Britain’s biggest girl band Girls Aloud, Nadine Coyle is now embarking on her solo career with her debut album. ESP’s Joanne Garwell finds out more…

After seven years, five albums and millions of record and ticket sales as one fifth of the UK’s most successful girl band Girls Aloud, Nadine Coyle is about to take the scary journey into the realm of being a solo artist. Each member of Girls Aloud has been venturing into new projects during the band’s break, and Nadine’s been busy co-writing her debut solo album Insatiable.

The album’s jam packed with 13 brand new tracks that mix 80s influences with Motown, sleek soul and blissful ballads. Nadine says of the album – “It had to be right, it had to be my sound and my songs.”

Nadine first had the opportunity to pursue a solo career when she auditioned for Irish Pop Stars.

Louis Walsh – then unrecognisable – took her aside and expressed interest in her pursuing a solo pop career. Louis approached her again just before she celebs auditioned for Pop Stars: The Rivals, the show that @espmag.co.uk created Girls Aloud and launched five unknown girls into stardom. Nadine says of this opportunity from Louis – “I just wasn’t ready. I was a wee girl. I’m ready now.”

Nadine’s spent the past two years collaborating with well-known writers, including golden era Robbie Williams collaborator Guy Chambers. They worked on one of her demos together in Malibu and Insatiable – the song that would set a blueprint for the tone of her album – was born. Nadine believes the partnership has really worked – “I just knew we had something special when that song came along.”

The album’s crammed full of killer pop songs with singalong choruses that stick in your head all day. “I’m a pop artist,” Nadine explains, “and that’s

what pop songs should do at their best.” Girls Aloud’s lead vocalist has certainly put her all into making this album, “I am so unbelievably proud of this record. I’ve put my heart and soul into it. Now I’m just going to work my hardest and keep my fingers crossed, I just hope someone’s watching over me and everyone gets to hear it.”

Stepping out alone is a new stage for Nadine but is a continuation of a pop dream that she wanted to see through. “When I thought of pop stardom I imagined, and I still do have these same visions when I think about it, watching a Diva’s Live concert in Vegas and seeing women in amazing long gowns singing their hearts out. The light show’s amazing, the band are tight and the backing singers are going crazy. That’s what my dream of being a singer was. It still is!

Being able to sing with the full back-up of a live-band songs that every line means the world to you.”

This Derry girl and former convent school pupil clearly has a renewed confidence and is now also a successful businesswoman, with her own Los Angeles bar, Irish Mist up and running. Her personal life is riding high as she’s newly engaged, so life is looking good for Miss Coyle.

She’s set to give a certain other Girls Aloud member a healthy piece of competition… not mentioning any names Cheryl Cole….

Nadine’s debut solo album Insatiable is out now. www.nadineofficial.com

‘A dining experience with a difference’ – it’s in the detail Lunchtime Tuesday to Friday – 12pm to 2pm (2 course option) Evening Dinner Tuesday to Friday - 7.00pm to 10.30pm, Saturday 6.30pm to 10.30pm 3 courses includes coffee & petit fours £25.95 3 course Sunday lunch, includes coffee & petit fours £19.50 Bookings required

due to popular demand we are extending the offer through the month of december!

Introducing the newest eatery in Peterborough city centre ‘Sidings Brasserie’ located in the Great Northern Hotel.

Offering you, the diner, homemade specialities sourced using only the finest of local produce, we pride ourselves on using only the freshest local ingredients delivered to your table under the watchful eye of our Head Chef.

Let us invite you the ESP reader to spend £30 on dinner for 2* in Sidings Brasserie and receive a complimentary bottle of house wine.

Simply quote ESP

The Cherry House Restaurant 125 Church Street,Werrington, Peterborough 01733 571721

Watch live football here

Free local delivery

01733 707060/346688

48 Westgate, Peterborough, PE1 1RE www.megabite.uk.com Opening hrs Sun – Thur 10-Late Friday – Sat 10-6am

reception@thegreatnorthernhotel.co.uk

* Not including drinks not in conjunction with any other offer.

Karen Devine

AS SEEN ON

TV

karen.devine@espmag.co.uk

GMTV, LK Today and UKTV Style’s ‘Spa of Embarrassing Illnesses’

For more information on health, nutrition and detox retreats go to my websites –

www.karendevine.co.uk www.devinedetox.co.uk

THE 12 NUTRIENTS OF CHRISTMAS Finally the big month has arrived – even though it doesn’t feel five minutes since we said goodbye to the last one (or so it seems ). It’s also been another great year for ESP. Twelve years and still going strong, and going strong is what I hope you will be over this Christmas time and not with your head in the Kleenex box nursing a cold.

I thought I’d bring you the 12 nutrients that may help keep you immune to the bugs out there this festive season...

FOLIC ACID

chickpeas, asparagus and apricots.

1

Good sources – Dark green leafy veg (you’ll also find some in Brussel sprouts so get some on your plate), egg yolks, avocado, beans, lentils and chickpeas to name a few.

Needed for – Prevention of birth defects, for the health of red blood cells and our digestive system, to prevent anaemia, for growth and to support our heart. Easily depleted with excess alcohol!

ZINC Good sources – Nuts (preferably not covered in chocolate), seeds, wholegrains, red meat and more. Oysters have the highest levels of zinc so they are a great aphrodisiac!

2

Needed for – Fighting infections, supporting immunity, reproduction, taste and smell, blood sugar control and more. Depleted with excess alcohol, smoking, stress and sugar.

B VITAMINS Good

3

sources – Wholegrains, lentils, beans, sunflower seeds, some dairy, broccoli, red meat, some mushrooms (and more).

Needed for – Producing energy from the food we eat and to prevent known clinical diseases such as Beriberi.

Guess what? Also depleted by alcohol!

IRON Good sources – Liver, red meat and vegetarian sources from foods such as dark green leafy veg,

4

Needed for – Bringing oxygen to the cells for energy, growth and for skin.

PROTEIN Good sources – Meat, milk, cheese, turkey, chicken, nuts, seeds, beans etc so you will most likely get your fair share of protein this Christmas.

5

Needed for – Most things in the body including building cells and new tissue, immunity, blood sugar control, digestion, skin, hair... you name it!

ESSENTIAL FATS

6

Good sources – Seeds, nuts, oily fish, olive oils and avocado.

Needed for – Cell structure to protect the cell from invaders, brain and digestive function, healthy skin and hair and lots more. We call them ‘essential’ as our body can’t make them so they must come from our food… also depleted with excess alcohol!

MAGNESIUM Sadly lacking in most diets due to food choices! Good sources – Chickpeas, sesame seeds (so get out the hummus), dark green leafy veg, nuts, brown rice and more.

7

Needed for – Literally hundreds of reactions in the body, some of the better-known are bone health, muscle contraction, blood sugar control and energy levels to name just a few. I think whelks are the highest but I am sure you’ll give them a miss!

CALCIUM So many foods are rich in calcium so it’s pretty difficult to go without.

Good sources – There are so many of them – yoghurts, milk, melon, raspberries, nuts, seeds, dark green leafy veg, broccoli and of course many foods are now fortified with it.

8

SELENIUM A mineral also known to be a potent antioxidant.

Good sources – Nuts (especially Brazils), kidney beans, some fish, prawns and other seafood (but don’t eat too much of these) and sesame seeds to name a few.

Needed for – Many things such as muscle contraction, strong bones, teeth, nerve impulses and hormone secretions.

Needed for – Immunity, detoxification, thyroid function, protecting cells against oxidation damage and more.

VITAMIN D Good

9

sources – has to be the most natural source that we have evolved with, namely our sun!

Also found in smaller levels in eggs, fish and fortified in some foods. We need sunshine to give us anywhere near the levels we need, fat chance this winter so this may be one that needs supplementing, but get advice first.

VITAMIN C

10

Good sources – Oranges (and other citrus fruit) kiwi, leafy veg, sweet potatoes, berries and lots of other fruit and veggies… depleted by smoking and stress.

Needed for – Once started would be hard to stop as this vitamin is needed for so many things, but as we all know it’s great to fight the common cold. It also helps absorb iron from foods, builds collagen and heals wounds. We can’t make this in the body so we have to have it from foods.

11

PRE AND PROBIOTICS

12

Good sources – natural live (containing live healthy bacteria) yoghurts, kefir, aged cheeses, pre biotics are foods that help to feed and nourish the friendly bacteria in the gut. They include most vegetables, fruits and fibre.

Needed for – immunity (it’s said that almost 80 per cent of immunity begins in the gut), bowel health and skin health, to help fight inflammation and more.

So even with all the other goodies at Christmas you can still fit in the nutrients you need to keep your immune system strong throughout the party season. This is the time of year that you’ll be eating lots more foods that ‘steal’ your nutrients which may allow those bugs to get a hold of you!

Happy Christmas and I’ll be back in the new year.

Karen

Karen has a diploma in nutritional medicine, nutritional therapeutics and homotoxicology; she is a member of the British Association of Nutritional Therapists and runs her own private practice.

50 OFF %

at

Best Western Orton Hall Hotel The Village Orton Longueville Peterborough PE2 7DN

t: 01733 391 111

ALL FOOD PURCHASES IN THE RAMBLEWOOD INN WHEN YOU SPEND £25 OR MORE

The ESP Reader Offer is only valid when you spend £25 or more on food from Sunday 1st August to Sunday 12th December 2010. The discount does not apply to spend on drinks or for group bookings of eight or more.

To receive your coupon for 50% OFF food purchases, just text us the word ‘RAMBLEWOOD’ along with your NAME and EMAIL address on the number shown, or email offers@espmag.co.uk to receive your coupon along with your NAME and PHONE NUMBER. Alternatively log onto www.espmag.co.uk and click on the Ramblewood logo on the home page to print out your own voucher.

TEXT HOTLINE 07762 147679

Normal text rates apply

When you quote Esp magazine offer expires 15th January 2011. offer applies to food only (no drinks) not to be used in conjunction with any other offers maximum discount value not to exceed ÂŁ50 Please reserve your table in advance

The team at EAST always seem to pull something new and exciting out of the bag and with the launch of their new Christmas menu there’s no sign this unique eatery is running out of ideas.

rolled in the most delicate rice pastry and a plum sauce for a truly gorgeous sweet kick. New main course dishes include zesty king prawns and a crispy lemon grass beef amongst many other delights. The Musashi red snapper – succulent pan fried fillets – makes great use of the restaurant’s links with Oakham Ales and uses their special Beer Fest brew (Musashi) to great effect in the sauce. Of course you can always enjoy a great pint of one of their real ales while you dine but there’s no harm in incorporating some in your food as well! Certainly not if the taste of this dish is anything to go by.

As the restaurant on the river heads towards its tenth anniversary it’s proving as fresh as ever when it comes to introducing tantalising and tasty new dishes to the menu. The latest additions to the Christmas menu are gorgeous – we’ve tried them!

The Christmas menu is available from November 23 until December 24. Throughout January you can continue to enjoy this great dining experiencing on the Nene with two courses on the winter menu for just £10 (including rice and vegetables) this will be available during the evenings from Sunday to Thursday.

The deep water spring rolls are a well presented starter which blends seasoned prawns and crab,

These expertly prepared and beautifully presented dishes all bode extremely well for the New Year’s Eve

FOOD

EAST’S CHRiSTMAS DELigHTS

Pan Asian Banquet which food @espmag.co.uk should be the perfect meal to see in 2011; it includes a three or four course menu for £29.95 or £33.95 respectively and a glass of bubbly. We can recommend the turmeric roast chicken with papaya salad and we would recommend EAST any time of the year.

EAST, Upper Deck, Charters, Town Bridge. Tel: 01733 315702. www.east-restuarant.co.uk

stylish

A and contemporary restaurant refurbished to a high standard

Dine in

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Special Christmas

Indulge in

exclusive North indian cuisine, fresh and true to its origins, prepared using traditional methods.

Enjoy indian Tapas at our

relaxing bar

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53 Westgate, Peterborough, PE1 1QA Telephone: 01733 342800 www.thebanyantree-uk.com

Great family pub • Real ales • Fresh food • Wine festival

Tuesday - daily special & wine festival Wednesday - vegetarian night Thursday - curry & quiz night Friday - fish night Saturday - mixed grill, Live band (every last Saturday of the month) Sunday - poker night £11 entry includes free meal!

Sup por t

you r lo cal pub

(from 7pm every Sunday) • Christmas bookings now being taken for groups of 10 or more • Free bottle of wine for Christmas promoter • Staff in fancy dress during Christmas period • Tesco vouchers accepted except for Christmas menu

1st week in December holding a charity event all week includes kissing contest, fun run, charity raffle, hamper for Edith Cavell hospital.

Everyone welcome to come along and join in the fun.

- New menu -

Food served daily until 10pm, 9.30pm on Sundays

Fox & hounds

Thorpe road, Longthorpe, Peterborough, PE3 6NB 01733 264126

Now recruiting experienced bar staff please call for more details

6 Westgate, peterborough, pE1 1ra

tel: 01733 342469 For breakfast, lunch or dinner come dine with us for succulent steaks, fabulous fish, sandwiches and fresh food cooked just how you like it.

Xmas bookings being taken Steak Fish Vegetarian

Fully licensed Open 8am – 4pm daily 6.30pm – late Thursday, Friday and Saturday

STArT And End yOur dAy AT nOrTH EAST COrnEr

It’s great to see the Cock Inn at Werrington finally has new proprietors who’ve transformed this fantastic village pub. Gill Edwards and her partner have not only restored it to its former glory but taken it up several notches and have introduced a new restaurant that looks stunning.

Fresh, clean and contemporary we reckon this new addition to what the pub has to offer will really restore it to the heart of the community. They’re serving home cooked food using locally sourced produce where possible and you can relax afterwards in front of their cosy log fire!

NOT LONG TO GO FOR JIMMY SPICE’S 9th RESTAURANT

ESP WINE OFFER @ FITZWILLIAM ARMS

Builders have continued to work hard to get the 300 seater Jimmy Spice’s buffet restaurant finished by the end of December. It’s located where Toho used to be, and is sure to be a favourite for all those food lovers who are keen to sample some of the world’s finest cuisine. The renowned restaurant chain offers sumptuous Indian, Thai, Italian, Mexican and Chinese dishes served fresh every day – and as it’s a buffet you can go back and try something different every time! For more info or to check out the menu you can visit the website www.jimmyspices.co.uk.

The Fitzwilliam Arms in Marholm, perhaps better known locally to many as The Green Man, are offering you a free bottle of wine with any two main meals until December 10, when you mention ESP. Why not take your other half out for a special romantic dinner before all the Christmas mania kicks in? It’s a great country pub which has just had a fabulous facelift – plus it has a gorgeous log fire. It doesn’t get cosier than that!

FOOD News

NEW RESTAURANT OPENS @ COCK INN

food @espmag.co.uk

BANYAN TREE OPENS IN CITY CENTRE It’s great to see the restaurant scene developing so well in the city and even better to see a local independent expand and bring their fantastic flavours to the centre.

The Banyan Tree, which has its sister restaurant well established in Werrington is now open on Westgate and looks absolutely stunning. It’s set to give the former Bar Bloc building the new lease of life it needed. Believe us when we say you won’t recognise the place! The food looks fabulous and we’re told by the team behind it that this menu is something entirely new – the closest you’ll find to real Indian food and there’s even Indian style Tapas you can snack on at their fabulous bar.

The Golden Pheasant RESTAURANT - CHRISTMAS MENU • Lunchtime and evenings £21.95 • Coffee and mince pie £1.50 LUNCHTIME SPECIALS AND EARLY BIRD • 12-2pm and 6-7pm Mon - Fri • Christmas Special – three courses £12.95 • Non Christmas – one course £6.50, 2 courses £8.50, 3 courses £10.50

CHRISTMAS DAY • Canapés and cocktails 2pm • 5 courses, food served at 2.30pm • £60 for adults, £30 for children BOXING DAY • Food served 12-4pm NEW YEAR’S EVE • Party in the marquee • Chef's carved buffet • £40 per head • Live music and Disco NEW YEAR’S DAY • Food served from 12 - 4pm

for hire, our fully serviced events marquee, for weddings, conferences, parties, in fact it’s the perfect setting for any occasion. noW oPen all year round.

• Food served daily noon – 2pm and 6pm – 9pm, Sundays 12noon ‘til 6pm • Open all day Fri, Sat, Sun • Pit-stop for Green Wheel cycle route • Real ales, large beer garden and parking area • A La Carte menu freshly cooked local produce

Main Road, Etton, Peterborough. Tel: 01733 252387 www.thegoldenpheasant.net

Specialists for parties in Peterborough

Malaysian & Thai Restaurant Cocktail Bar

Experience Paradise

at Malayba an unforgettable journey to the far east where you can enjoy the fantastic exotic flavours.

Come and relax at our bar with a Polynesian cocktail in its tranquil surroundings. You can enjoy your business lunch or even celebrate a special occasion, and choose from our extensive menu. Or you can also book for your own private function, and all parties will be catered for.

01733 561806 All our food is free of additives and preservatives and we use halal meat.

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wheels@espmag.co.uk

This little black beauty has had £3,000 thrown at it in modifications that include:

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Mayor of Peterborough, councillor Keith Sharp, will draw the winner at the Youth Access Point in Central Library, Broadway, Peterborough, on December 17 at 2pm.

The Saxo was bought from Star Cars for £1,500 and Ice Direct has guaranteed all the modification work.

Raffle tickets are on sale at the Destination Centre on Bridge Street, Peterborough until December 13.

Seven enterprising young people are raffling the sweet little French number off to raise money for Peterborough Soup Kitchen.

Pep Cipriano

The idea came about when Peterborough City Council's 8 - 19 service was awarded £6,000 of Connecting Communities Government funding in January to work with the young people from Peterborough's central ward.

Someone somewhere is going to have a very good Christmas after being four wheels better off for parting with just two quid.

The young people have been involved at every stage from buying the car, managing the budget and working with staff from Ice Direct to modify it, choosing the charity and organising the raffle.

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Two of them have also volunteered to help with other fundraising activities on behalf of Peterborough Soup Kitchen and all of them have signed up to the Young Lives Volunteering scheme.

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Here comes Christmas

ESP’s Mikey Clarke plays Santa and brings you his tips to get you in the mood for a cracking Christmas…

Not got that ‘Christmas feeling?’

Corny Crackers

I’ve noticed that on Christmas Day we all become actors. You remain looking grateful despite opening your third pair of socks, and give out a big smile when biting into the burnt Yorkshire. This acting continues when we pretend to laugh at awful Christmas cracker gags. I believe that a genuinely funny cracker joke does not exist, but I shall let you be the judge.

I’ve searched high and low, and these are the best ones I could find…

What is Santa's favourite pizza?

One that's deep pan, crisp and even.

Why would you invite a mushroom to a Christmas party?

He's a fun guy to be with.

Why does Santa wear pink underwear?

He's a man. He did all his laundry in the one load.

Why is Christmas just like a day at the office?

You do all the work and the fat guy with the suit gets all the credit.

What happens if you eat too many Christmas decorations?

You get ‘Tinsel’-itis!

I hope you have more luck finding a better joke in your cracker. I’d recommend working on that fake laugh though... just in case.

It breaks my heart to admit this, but with every year I grow a little older, I also find it harder to get that ‘Christmas feeling’. When a carol singer comes to the door all I can think is – ‘Hurry up, I’m missing XFactor’. And when it snows, I’m more concerned about the traffic conditions than whether or not my snowman looks better than my neighbour’s. If you’re feeling the same way, I’ve come up with some ideas that should bring that great festive feeling back.

Firstly, we all need to squeeze in some Christmas shopping, so why not do it on a Thursday night (late night shopping) when it’s chilly and dark. The council always does a great job of lighting up the city centre and cuddled up in your winter woollies strolling through the market

stalls with the lights glistening in the trees should give you that little tingle of festive excitement.

as a big part of Christmas is about giving, this will make you feel good too.

Of course you could take the kids to visit Santa at Nene Valley Railway.

Their Santa Special begins with a visit to see the jolly man himself in his cabin. Families get to take a 55 minute ride on a festively decorated train full of sweets for the kids, and some wine for the adults. And yes, Santa will be on the journey too. For more info, visit www.nvr.org.uk.

Finally, for all those who find it hard to believe that Santa can visit the whole world in one night, there’s proof that he can. On Christmas Eve, get yourself online and check out the NORAD Santa Tracker. It shows Santa travelling across the world so kids and adults alike can keep track of him. I highly recommend you Google this and check it out for yourself.

Simply tucking into a mince pie can also make you feel very festive. Why not work on your baking skills by putting together some home-made goodies? I’m sure some of the pies would be appreciated by your workmates/friends/family – especially if they’re homemade. And

Festive Films

Everyone wants to watch something different on the telly... especially at Christmas time! As December brings you a wide range of visitors, let’s take a look at a wide range of films…

For the kids, I’d recommend Elf. This modern Christmas tale stars Will Ferrell as Buddy the elf. Buddy leaves the North Pole to find his family in New York... oh, and to save Christmas whilst he’s at it. This film’s very colourful and doesn’t try to be too clever, so for that reason I think the kids will appreciate this festive flick. I should warn you that the closing scene may leave you with a tear in your eye (or a convenient itch for any guys reading!)

Like most females, mum will appreciate The Holiday.

This Christmas chick-flick tells the story of two women who’ve never met and live 6,000 miles apart. With the girls left heartbroken, they both decide to participate in a house swap... with hilarious consequences of course! The Holiday works its magic because Nancy Meyers (the writer and director) refreshingly invests time in the characters instead of the scenarios. It’s also worth mentioning that Jude Law is particularly tasty in the film too (the words of my Missus, not me!)

I’d be very surprised if any dads out there objected to watching Die Hard.

Bruce Willis plays a New York city cop who gets trapped in a skyscraper occupied by terrorists. For those who are thinking ‘How is this a Christmas film?’... I forgot to mention that it’s set on Christmas Eve. Whoever’s idea it was to include guns and explosions in a Christmas film is a genius.

If there are any grandparents who haven’t seen It’s A Wonderful Life then this is a must!

In this classic, George Bailey is a smalltown man whose life seems so desperate he contemplates jumping from a bridge. However, his guardian angel arrives just in time to show him what life would’ve been like for those around him if he’d never lived. Luckily, things would have been bad for them (or this would have made a terrible movie). Regardless of whether or not you believe in angels or even whether you like Christmas... you’ll love this film!

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the area’s premier dog grooming salon bookings now being taken by City & Guilds trained dog groomer debbie

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a renewing resurfacing Treatment

Call The limes on 01733 311554 for an appointment or more information www.thelimestherapies.com

953 lincoln road, Walton Peterborough PE4 6aF Telephone 01733 327777 e-mail: chihuahuapuppies@msn.com web: www.dogrooms.co.uk

Gold Award Winner

Now taking bookings for Christmas Day dinner 5 course dinner for only £55.00 (Just one sitting so no need to rush)

Also taking bookings for Christmas Parties – book early to avoid disappointment.

The Red Lion will be offering food on Boxing Day

• Six real ales on at all times • Local fresh produce • Beer garden • Child friendly with play area

• Monday – Friday – food served 12-2pm, 6-9pm • Pensioners lunch served Monday to Friday £6.00 for two courses • Saturday – Sunday food served all day.

Sat 12-9pm, Sun 12-8pm • Early Bird menu Mon-Fri, £12 for two main courses 6pm-7pm • Sunday evening quiz – cash prizes to be won • Karaoke first Saturday of every month • Live entertainment Friday nights

Marquee available for weddings and other events - very competitive pricing

48 King Street, West Deeping, Peterborough, PE6 9HP Tel: 01778 347190 www.redlionwestdeeping.co.uk theredlionwestdeeping@hotmail.com

Traditional pub with a warm, welcoming atmosphere

Steve Gonzalez

steve.gonzalez@espmag.co.uk

c

Here’s my Christmas present to all ESP readers. At some point in December The Muppets Christmas Carol starring Michael Caine as Scrooge will be on telly. If you're watching it with friends or family wait until Michael Caine has been visited by a couple of ghostly apparitions and then shout in your best Michael Caine voice -"You were only supposed to scare the bloody ghosts off!”

d

THE MOSTLY FESTIVE COMEDY QUIZ To get you further in the festive mood I've put together a comedy quiz that covers some of the TV Chrimbo classics. (Answers are at the bottom) Which James Bond actor appeared in Graham Norton's version of the nativity in his 2000 C4 show to deliver the line – “My name is God.... Almighty God.”

7

In The Office 2003 Christmas special what Simply Red song does David Brent blow all his redundancy money on to record and make a video for?

In South Park's Red Sleigh Down – what happens to Santa on Christmas Eve?

A. Sean Connery B. Pierce Bronson C. Roger Moore

A. Money's Too Tight To Mention B. Fairground C. If You Don't Know Me By Now

A. His sleigh can't take off because Cartman hides in one of the toy sacks.

B. He flies into the the Eiffel Tower after the reindeer get drunk on cheap French wine. C. His sleigh is shot down over Baghdad and he's taken hostage

1

8

What was the 1985 Christmas special of Minder called?

A. Minder On The Nene Valley Railway B. Minder On The GNER C. Minder On The Orient Express What part of the department store do the priests in Father Ted get lost in whilst Christmas shopping in 1996?

9

Which comedian copresented ITV's World Of Sport on Christmas Eve 1977?

2

A. Tommy Cooper B. Bruce Forsyth C. Eric Morecambe In National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation what festive drink does Chevy Chase get drunk on when his boss doesn't give him a Christmas bonus?

3

A. Mulled wine B. Cranberry-flavoured vodka C. Eggnog In 1996 the Vicar Of Dibley has a competition with David Horton to see who can eat the most what?

4

A. The toy department B. The food department C. The lingerie department How many Christmas Specials of My Family have been completely rubbish?

10

A. None of them B. Some of them C. All of them.

13

What was the name of the female character Peter Kay played in 2008 to try and get himself a Christmas No.1, but failed due to the song being even worse than Alexandra Burke's version of Hallelujah?

14

Which double act cracked this festive rib tickler... "The emergency services were called to a church in Sussex last night where a bell ringer forgot to let go and caught his ding dong merrily on high."

18

A. Ant ‘n’ Dec B. Mitchell & Webb C. The Two Ronnies Why won't Margo wear Tom's homemade Christmas hat in The Good Life?

19

A. Because it looks s*** B. Because she's just had her hair permed C. Because it's made out of the Daily Mirror.

A. Geraldine Granger B. Geraldine McEwan C. Geraldine McQueen In 2008 what did Smithy wrap his Christmas presents up with in Gavin & Stacey?

15

A. The Radio Times B. Bin bags C. Tin foil

In Blackadder’s Christmas Carol, which member of the royal family does Ebenezer Blackadder call ‘Queen piglet features – Empress of Oink’?

11

In Bottom what dodgy make of aftershave does Rik Mayall wear for Christmas?

20

A. Brut B. Farenheit C. Grrr

A. Queen Latifah B. Queen Mary C. Queen Victoria

A. Turkey B. Quality Street C. Brussel sprouts In Home Alone, what's the name of the criminal duo that get outwitted by Macaulay Culkin?

5

A. The Wet Nurses B. The Wet Noses C. The Wet Bandits In Porridge, what gift does MacKay offer Fletch in order to find out who's planning to escape at Christmas?

6

A. A bottle of Babycham B. A bottle of bubble bath C. A bottle of whiskey

www.esp m ag .co.u k ( De ce mber )

In A Christmassy Ted, what does Father Jack say when Father Ted asks him to guess what's behind the advent calendar door?

16

In The Simpsons’ Miracle On Evergreen Terrace – what are the lines Bart's writing on the blackboard in the opening credits?

12

A. Eat my cranbery filled Christmas shorts. B. Santa is not fatter than my Dad C. Rudolph's red nose is not alcohol related

A. Drink B. Girls C. A pair of feckin' women’s knickers What did Denice Royle do in the Royle Family on Christmas Day 1999?

17

On Christmas Eve 1988, which building has its office party ruined by terrorists who take everyone hostage?

A. Give peace a chance B. Give blood C. Give birth

A. The Rovers Return B. Nelson Mandela House C. Nakatomi Plaza

21

In 2007 what did Harry Hill jokingly recommend you season your turkey with on TV Burp?

22

A. After Eight mints B. Roll-on deodorant C. Pine tree air freshners For Christmas 1990 which boxer guest starred in the Fresh Prince Of Bel Air?

23

A. Mike Tyson B. Sugar Ray Leonard C. Evander Holyfield

How many new heads and handles does Trigger claim his 20 year-old broom has had in the 1996 Only Fools & Horses Christmas special?

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A. 17 heads and 17 handles B. 14 heads and 17 handles C. 17 heads and 14 handles Which song did Morecambe & Wise end their last ever show together with on Boxing Day 1983?

25

A. Bring Me Sunshine B. Bring Me The Head Of Des O'Connor C. Positive Thinking

The correct answers were all C's – but you already knew that so well done you!

A SONG FOR CHRISTMAS Looking back through previous Christmas issues of ESP I noticed that I've never done a seasonal song parody so this year I’ve decided to do something about it.

On December 25 it'll be the 21st anniversary of my favourite Fools & Horses episode: The Jolly Boys Outing. It's probably the most un-Christmassy episode being as it's set on the August Bank Holiday but I'll never forget that Christmas it was first shown as a kid because that was the year Santa brought me my first electric guitar!

I remember spending most of the day trying to learn the three chords to Bryan Adams' Summer Of 69 before watching the Trotters and the rest of the Peckham plonkers go on their infamous day trip to Margate.

Anyway, drawing on some other memories from that day here’s my song for Christmas. You all know the tune...

The Christmas of '89 I got my first real six string On Christmas Day '89 Played it ’til my fingers bled From morning through to lunchtime Me and some chords I learnt Playing out of tune on that guitar Didn't quit even tho’ I was rubbish I knew one day I could be a star Oh but then I heard a voice It was my folks shouting Telling me it was time To come and watch 'The Jolly Boys Outing'.

Yeah cos that was the best...Fools & Horses episode I'd seen in my life. Oh yeah, it was the Christmas of '89 And on TV that day I saw things That deeply affected me In Rumania they overthrew Ceaucescu And Pauline Fowler had a hysterectomy, Misery in Albert Square It always happens every December Don't ask me what happened in Corrie Cos without checking Wikipedia I can't remember!

All I know is that it was the best Christmas of my life…

Etc etc. And if anyone is desperate enough to hear me singing it live, come down the Solstice karaoke night on December 19 and I just might do it

real ales Spitfire, White dwarf and JHB

Open every day from 11am Sunday lunch 3 courses £9.90 adult’s, £7.50 senior citizens/children

Oakacademy FrEE Pool certified

every Thurs 6pm onwards

Function room available - please ask for details

Karaoke / disco Fri & Sat

• Booking advisable

The Crown Inn 749 Lincoln Road, Peterborough, PE1 3HD.

07516 395905

Confessions...

Susan Saunders

susan.saunders@espmag.co.uk

The end of my Confessions…

Looking back, is something I tend not to do too much of. I’m of the school of thought that everything happens for a reason. On this occasion though, I thought I’d go against the Susan grain.

Three years ago, a slightly boisterous and misguided girl began writing a column called Confessions. In it, she wrote about the trials and tribulations of being a girl in modern day Peterborough, never shying away from sharing the tales of her calamity-littered life. She (or I), would delight in relating some very stupid situations she’d found herself in and on more than one occasion, she would talk about the species of the male variety.

I (I think I’ve now more than implied that I’m talking about myself) would talk about how daft and strange guys were as if I was some divine authority. I can safely say I am most definitely not.

Whilst I thought men were the most puzzling creatures on this earth (more so than those yucky daddy-long-legs – just why do they exist?) three years after talking about them, writing about them, laughing at them (sorry guys) and enjoying their company, I still find them most puzzling.

On my previous attempts to work them out, I converted their behaviour into algebraic style equations to try to make sense of it all. Girls, you may get some use out of this: X + X = he’s not interested (he takes your number + doesn’t text = he’s not interested).

X + Y = he’s still not interested (he takes your number + he texts, you reply and you never hear from him again = he’s a complete Muppet).

X + Z = not only is he not interested, he’s a complete dufus (he won’t relent without your number + he tells you he’s fancied you for a very long time + he really wants to take you out but suggests you go back to his later that evening to talk more – RAT ALERT, RAT ALERT – but when you decline, he doesn’t ever text) = rhymes with job, with a silent ‘K’.

To be fair to you guys, equally bad behavior from girls is: X + Y + Z = a thing us girls can sometimes do (he takes your number + he texts, you reply and vice versa. You go on a few dates, he’s so nice and really likes you, and

www.es p m ag .co.u k ( De c e mber )

then you go off him as he’s too nice).

All of the above come in many different guises and to be honest, as much as I like to be treated like a lady (what a diva) I’ve encountered a few toads in my time.

I’m hardly at the pinnacle of game-playing or the man oracle, nor would I want to be, but if I can impart some knowledge to other girls it would be this; if a guy really likes you, he’ll chase you, if he doesn’t really like you, he won’t.

Now guys, before you start sticking the needles into your voodoo dolls, just wait a second. I’m hardly saying anything revolutionary, most girls will know this stuff, but need gently reminding every once in a while, especially around Christmas time when people confuse the festive cheer with the need for romance. However, SOME girls actually don’t mind a little casual liaison (no judgement and no names mentioned).

Over the past few years of making myself look absolutely ridiculous, advice is the least I can offer. I mean throughout the life of my column, I’ve accidentally flashed my bottom at my boss, butted in on a conversion about a friend’s boyfriend in the toilets, run out of petrol with a VIP in my car, fallen over in the Cuckoo, India and various other locations and gave a learn French CD to someone who definitely didn’t appreciate it. I could’ve done with some advice along the way, but as it is I think it’s safe to say that I’ve earned Bridget Jones status, which, all in the name of character-building, I can embrace with pride.

Will I ever stop getting myself into cringe-worthy situations? Will I finally discover a fat-free guilty pleasure?

Probably not.

Will I still laugh at myself because I’ve put my foot in it once again? Probably.

So as I sit back sipping my frappucino writing this last column, I watch the world go by with a sense of comfort. I haven’t found the cure for some terrible disease but I have finally accepted my calamity-prone self, warts and all. Whatever next year brings, I look forward to it.

Thank you all for reading.

Yours Cringe-worthy, Susan x (Susan will be back with ESP in a new guise next year!)

SCREENSCENE

MOVIE

Previews Released: December 17 Cast: Jeff Bridges, Garrett Hedlund, Michael Sheen Director: Joseph Kosinski It’s been 28 years since Jeff Bridges starred in the cult original movie – and now he returns in the video-game influenced world which has been shot in breathtaking 3D.

his disappearance and soon ends up in the same world – except this time it’s far more dangerous.

With his character Sam being stuck in this gladiator-gamed cyber universe for twenty years, his rebellious tech-savvy son Kevin (Garrett Hedlund) looks into

With the help of fearless warrior Quorra (Olivia Wilde from TV series House), father and son embark on a life-or-death journey across this visually stunning universe – which now boasts more advanced vehicles,

weapons and landscapes – as they attempt to take down a ruthless villain played by Britain's own Michael Sheen.

The original had a hardcore following despite receiving mixed reviews, but Disney hope this reboot of the franchise will open the door to a trilogy of movies – as a new generation gets to the see the legend that is Tron.

THE CHRONICLES OF NARNIA:

THE VOYAGE OF THE DAWN TREADER Released: December 9

Cast: Ben Barnes, Bill Nighy, Georgie Henley Director: Michael Apted

Twentieth Century Fox hope the third epic CS Lewis adventure will create the same Yuletide buzz as 2005’s The Lion, The Witch And The Wardrobe – with Disney passing after Prince Caspian underachieved.

The youngest Pevensie children – Edmund (Skandar Keynes) and Lucy (Georgie Henley) – return to Narnia as they re-team with Ben Barnes’ Prince Caspian, this time sailing to the edge of the world aboard the royal ship The Dawn Treader – encountering dragons, dwarves and a lost band of warriors along the way.

Liam Neeson again voices charismatic lion Aslan, with Simon Pegg reprising his role as valiant mouse Reepicheep, as this looks to take a giant bite out of the family box-office market.

gavin.miller @espmag.co.uk

MEGAMIND

THE TOURIST

BURLESQUE

LITTLE FOCKERS

Released: December 3

Released: December 10

Released: December 17

Released: December 22

GULLIVER’S TRAVELS

The big-budget CGI animation offering over the Christmas period (in both 2D and 3D) sees Will Ferrell’s egg-headed super-villain Megamind having to turn good guy against a powerful new enemy (Jonah Hill) – after defeating previous arch-nemesis Metro Man (Brad Pitt).

Angelina Jolie makes smitten American tourist Johnny Depp an unwitting target as she misleads authorities trying to track her former criminal lover – in this Venice-based thriller which includes British actors Paul Bettany, Rufus Sewell and former 007 Timothy Dalton.

This could be a disaster of Showgirls-proportions (in a half-naked kind of way) for Christina Aguilera as she launches her acting career on the back of an underperforming album – starring alongside Cher as a smalltown girl who goes from bar to stage at an ailing club.

The first movie was extremely watchable, the second a clichéd unfunny mess, but they’ve both made big money at the box-office so a third film was inevitable as Greg (Ben Stiller) – who now has baby twins – still yearns the approval of tightly-wound father-in-law Jack (Robert De Niro).

Jack Black stars as the infamous traveller Lemuel Gulliver who ends up stranded on an island inhabited by industrious tiny people, in this converted to 3D family movie that boasts British talent such as Emily Blunt, Catherine Tate and James Corden.

www.esp m ag .co.u k ( De ce mber )

Released: Boxing Day

All release dates are correct at the time of going to press.

ONL REVIEINE WS

END OF YEAR SPECIAL: PART TWO

For the la game test movie, D review s from VD and ESP, vi www.e sit: spmag .co.uk /review s

ESP dissects all the major games in the run-up to Christmas, here’s part two of our bumper guide, which gets the extended cut online at www.espmag.co.uk

FABLE III

FALLOUT: NEW VEGAS

CALL OF DUTY: BLACK OPS

(X360/PS3/PC) Out now

(PS3/X360/WII/DS/PC)

Out now

Out now

The previous game really took the series to the next level – and the third instalment delivers more of the same enjoyment.

Those who read my page on a regular basis will know that I’m a massive Fallout 3 fan – and after only a few hours play I soon realised this was my game of the year.

The original ‘wow’ factor may be missing and the same little bugs and glitches rear their ugly head once in a while – but this Vegas-influenced world oozes class from every pore.

The basic mechanics are nearly identical – bar a few minor new additions and exceptional ‘hardcore’ mode – but you’ll feel lucky experiencing this apocalypse.

The gulf between developers Treyarch (COD III, World At War) and Infinity Ward (Modern Warfare series) was once huge – but with Black Ops the former has nearly bridged the gap over the much more lauded latter.

With a refreshingly different (albeit still quite frustratingly short) single-player campaign that follows American operatives through the Cold War era, coupled with improved multiplayer (including Zombie) modes – the franchise’s future is in safe hands.

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SMACKDOWN VS RAW 2011

THE FORCE UNLEASHED II

(X360/PS3/WII/PSP)

(PS3/X360/WII/DS/PC)

Out now

Out now

If you were one of the those gamers who used to moan about the lack of wrestling roster, storylines or game modes – then fear no more.

This is a series from the Star Wars canon that unfairly gets dealt a lot of negative criticism – which I find quite unfounded.

This is the most definitive WWE experience yet with nearly 80 combatants, including the likes of Sheamus and Drew McIntyre, this is all you could have dreamed for, despite some unwelcome controls tinkering again.

Again starring as Darth Vader’s apprentice (the now cloned) Starkiller it does fall foul to the repetition, and maybe doesn’t have the strongest of stories, but as a Star Wars fan I found the overall polish and cut-scenes made it well worth an enjoyable playthrough. Do or do not, there is no try. Then it’s a ‘do’ as the force is strong with this one.

Throw in the new physics system (finishing move from the top of a ladder anyone?) and this is simply a Stone Cold Stunner.

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VANQUISH

(X360/PS3) Out now Don’t you just love it when a littleknown third-person shooter comes along to become one of the surprise packages of the year?

Well with (welcomed) Gears Of Warsesque Vanquish you’ve got it, as you star as super-suited cigarette-smoking hero Sam Gideon and take on Russian extremists.

It’s one of the biggest surprises since Dead Space with its highoctane gaming mechanics (check out the boost control and great cover system) – and worthy addition to anyone’s Christmas stocking.

Loading times and general gaming physic problems rear their ugly head, but with the addition of Karma powers this is a giant step in the right direction.

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Thanks to Harry Vickers for playtesting some of this month’s titles.

EA SPORTS MMA (X360/PS3) Out now

With the last two UFC games making a massive impact, this needed to bring its A-game – and fortunately it did.

Incorporating elements of the great Fight Night series helps establish EA’s take on the growing popularity of Mixed Martial Arts with great natural combat controls – which helps it overcome the lack of the big-name UFC license.

There’s room for improvements in some areas, but this first effort has edged ahead on points in the battle for MMA supremacy.

BLOOD STONE: 007

When I heard that Activision were rebooting the much-loved N64 game for the Wii, I thought it should have been left well alone.

Out now

(WII/DS) Out now

(X360/PS3/DS/PC)

Bizarrely, Goldeneye’s addition to Wii’s gaming catalogue hasn’t done this competent Bond entry any favours.

But how wrong I was. Not only have they freshened up the single-player campaign by replacing Pierce Brosnan with Daniel Craig, they’ve done the multiplayer justice with eight classic characters (Jaws and Oddjob included) to boot.

A lot of 360 and PS3 fans would have probably preferred the Wii game on their system, but with the lack of a Daniel Craig film adventure for a couple of years, this nicely fills the void – complete with Joss Stone as a Bond girl.

With some of the best graphics yet seen on the system, I implore fans – new and old – to grab a license to kill.

Sadly this third-personer is only strongly recommended for Bond fans as it’s simply functional – only stirring the genre instead of shaking it.

SAW II: FLESH & BLOOD

Simulation games are one of the few areas that are still better on a PC, but this is next best thing – with many computer functions intact after you’ve adapted to them on your controller.

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GOLDENEYE: 007

THE SIMS 3

If you’ve craved for the vastly enjoyable phenomenon that is The Sims on your home console – now you’ve got it.

But behind the lack of story depth still lays one of the best nextgen role-playing games out there – with the world of Albion on the brink of collapse – and still comes highly recommended.

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Out now

That’s not a bad thing with a more refined script, defined characters and some stand-out moments – but sadly there’s nothing groundbreaking to prevent overfamiliarity.

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(X360/PS3/WII/DS/PC)

(X360/PC)

(PS3/X360) Out now

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ROCK BAND 3 (X360/PS3/WII/DS) Out now

Never has serial-killer Jigsaw lacked so much creativity – as the sequel fails to iron out the problems that bugged last year’s original.

One game that does exactly what it says on the tin this Christmas is this latest ‘full’ Rock Band version.

If you can get over the repetition of the traps – as you play as Danny Glover’s character’s son from the original film – you can just about squeeze a playthrough out of the game.

If you want to purchase the new keyboard or Pro Guitar (which can actually help teach you to play) that compliments it, then it takes the game to another level – if not, it’s more of the same.

Sadly though, it really isn’t anywhere near as scary as it thinks it is, and if ‘you want to play a game’ this Christmas you’d have to be a hardcore fan to play this one.

The game boast tracks from more than eighty bands, so this is solid rock n’ roll fare for newcomers or experts alike.

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www.es p mag .co.u k ( De cember )

CLUBLAND

BACK TO THE FUTURE Ministry of Sound DJ Justin Wilson will be bringing underground, progressive house to Balance at Mama Liz’s, Stamford on December 18. He’ll be joined by the cofounders of Balance, Jamie Scott of London’s Nuestra Casa and Niki Bell. This night is purely about the music so expect big tunes and no egos. Entry £3.

SHADES OF RHYTHM @ HALO Halo will be taken over by Diamond Life on December 26 and they’re bringing their massively successful Blend brand to the club. Blend mixes Old Skool and Nu Skool styles and headlining is Peterborough’s very own legends of the dancefloor, Shades of Rhythm. A central part of the late 80s and early 90s rave scene, the childhood friends are still going strong and will be bringing a live PA and DJ set to Halo. Joining them will be Jay Heal, Darren James and Benji Ionnatta playing Old Skool classics and upfront house and electro.

UNCZ @ CLUB DISSIDENT Close personal friends for years and combining genres such as D’n’B, UK hiphop and grime, Uncz are a collective of DJs that take their own individual styles and perform them together in a way that has to be seen to be believed. Funsta MC, DJ Ruffstuff, Dr. Eps and Harry Shotta all still work on their solo stuff but they’re coming as a group to 4Cross at Club Dissident on December 17 and the theme of the night is The Usual Suspects. Entry £7 all night.

TIS THE SEASON

HAPPY BIRTHDAY @ CRUNKED UP Crunked Up celebrate two years of dubstep with a special anniversary party at Club Dissident on December 10. These guys were the first to host a regular dubstep in the city and they’re still keeping things fresh.

DJs include Obsean, Bobby Bitz, Herbz b2b 1Shot, Dessa and Mr West. Entry £3. www.esp m ag .co.u k ( De ce mber )

Mustard has its grand opening night at Club Dissident on December 3 and is set to be the one of the biggest old-school nights in the city. Headlining is Slipmatt, the legendary, international DJ and he’s joined

by Charlie D, the MC. The second room will feature hard dance and hardcore from DJs such as Loon-E, Noshad D and MC Linden D and Harry Hill. This is going to be a fast and frantic night and £1 from every ticket sold will go to Help For Heroes. Entry £6.

LIVE AND LOUD Coda are one of the UK’s hottest new acts and last time they played in Peterborough, their live dubstep show at Club Dissident drove the crowd wild. You may recognise two of the band – Kerry and Stacey Edwards who formerly played in Freepeace – and they’re coming to Hertz at Club Dissident on December 4.They’ll be joined by Xidus Pain, DJ Urb and MC Sn+Per DJ Kendo, Obsean and Bobby Bitz.

UNDERAGE AND UNDERGROUND

For a taste of the music, visit www.diamondlifemusic.com and follow the links to listen to their latest podcast, which was featured on iTunes’ ‘What’s Hot’ listing.

Entry £3 before 10.30pm, £5 after.

The Hennessey Crew will be keeping you entertained over the festive season with three nights at Club Revolution, Park Road, all with dancehall, reggae and hip-hop from Mr Lion, Blackheart Sound, Love Unlimited and Ghetto Force International. First up is Gaza Man Nuh Kill Santa, Ram Pam Pam Pam on December 24, which’ll feature Mr Lion handing out Xmas presents to all the ladies. Then it’s Straight Jeans and Fitted on December 26 and finally NYE Red Carpet Affair on December 31.

KEEN AS MUSTARD

FESTIVE FESTIVAL FEVER The Troubadour Sessions return to Club Dissident on December 11 with Le Dernier Spectacle, a festive fusion of electro, gypsy swing, scratch, hip-hop, dub, afro-reggae, garage, soul, folk and pretty much any other genre you care to mention from live bands and DJ. Headlining is the Worm, festival favourites whose African-influenced party sound is guaranteed to get you dancing.

Supporting is Kerry and the Giants, fronted by the heavenly-voiced Kerry Devine.

Warming up the night is the house gypsy swing band, the Cold Club Quartet. DJs are Bobby Gandalf, Day Glow Joe, Lukas and Mr. Crow, As it’s getting near to Christmas, the club will be decked out in tinsel and baubles and a mass pass the parcel game has been organised – crack those Christmas jumpers out, come down and start the party season with something different!

The next generation will get a chance to party at Urban Yoot at Club Dissident on December 22 – it’s a D‘n’B, dubstep and hardcore night for under 18s. Liberation DJs Whoremoan and Muggz will be playing D‘n’B in the main room, while SpinDubz and the Dub Monkey will be in the front room.

Budding MCs are also invited to take part in a contest and coaches are available from Oakham – search Urban Yoot on Facebook for more info. Entry £5.

Notes to parents: Club Dissident will be operating a strict no-alcohol policy on this night and always operate a strict no-illegal substances policy.

XMAS AND NYE @ CENTRAL Get those sexy Santa outfits on girls for the big Christmas Eve party night at Central in Stamford. There’ll be a free shot for all sexy Santa girls! This one kicks off at 8pm seeing you into the big day itself at 3am. Then you can see in the new year in style with a UV blackout party from 8pm-4am on New Year’s Eve. Expect full UV decor and plenty of giveaways. Go in UV/neon fancy dress and you’ll receive a free shot!

On December 4 it’s their Ibiza Uncovered party and then on December 18 catch The Wideboys behind the decks.

• Open log fire.

• Lunchtime snack menu available.

• Coffee and freshly made cakes available.

• Live entertainment, see ESP Gig Guide.

• We currently serve two Real Ales – increasing by popular demand.

Home cooked food with locally sourced produce served from: Monday to Saturday: 12pm – 9pm Sunday Roast: 12pm – 6pm Opening Hours: Monday to Thursday 11am – 11pm Friday to Saturday 11am – 1pm Sundays 11am – 10.30pm

1305 Lincoln Road, Werrington, Peterborough PE4 6LW www.cock-inn.co.uk enquiries@cock-inn.co.uk

Bluebell (DOGSTHORPE)

available New restaurant menu

The Black Horse • Real ales • Open daily from 12 noon • Live music • Real log fires • Bar menu available everyday • Restaurant menu: urs, Fri, Sat 6 - 9pm • Sunday lunch: 12 - 4pm (booking advisable)

Christmas menu now available including Christmas Day

• Live music every weekend (check ESP Gig Guide) • Food served Monday-Sunday • Sky + Espn • Real Ales • Quiz Night Sunday • Large family beer garden • FREE pool on Mondays • Cambridge £2.55 during Premiership Football • Carling £2.80

St Pauls Road, Dogsthorpe Tel: 01733 554890 www. Bluebellpub.co.uk

The Dragon • Live entertainment see gig guide • Live sports including Saturdays 3pm, 5 screens (not sky) • Real ales • Mon Darts, Tues League Poker, Wed, League Poker and Crib • Thur League Poker and Pool • Fri & Sat Entertainment • See us on face book – The Dragon Pub

Hodgson Avenue, Werrington Tel: 01733 578088 peterboroughdragon@hotmail.co.uk

Fotheringhay Road, Nassington, Peterborough PE8 6QU

Telephone: 01780 782324

Geneva Bar • Mon – Sat, 10 til 4pm, Fosters & Carling, £2 per pint. John Smiths, £1.60 per pint • Thursdays – RnB, Soul, Hip-Hop & Reggae • Friday & Saturday – Join DJ Andy – Disco and Karaoke, 8pm – 2.30am • Sunday – Megamix 8.30pm – 1.30am • Late night opening Thursday, Friday, Saturday & Sunday until 2.30am

2 Geneva Street, Peterborough Tel: 01733 340099

The Boys Head • • • • • • •

Real Ales Under new management Fri, Sat, Sun in-house music New food and old music New restaurant now open Major refurbishment in New Year Food served daily

140 Oundle Road, Peterborough Tel: 07749 360238

Camra Gold award winners

We wish our customers a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

• Sky Sports • Free Pool on Mondays • Happy hour Mon – Fri, 5 ‘til 7pm • Live entertainment – see ESP Gig Guide • Karaoke every Sunday with Mighty Mouth Trev • Camra Gold Award winning real ales available from £2 (5 hand pumps ) • Function room for hire at reasonable prices • Join our Facebook group The Ploughman

THE PLOUGHMAN Staniland Way Werrington Centre PE4 6NA 01733 327696

Lime Tree • Live entertainment - SEE ESP GUIDE • Live Sky sports • Real Ales • Beer gardens front and rear • Two pool tables • Quiz every Sunday night • Function room for hire Paston Lane, Walton Tel: 01733 708320

The Crown Inn • Open every day from 11am • Real ale • Sunday lunch – 3 courses £9.90 adults, £7.50 senior citizens / children • Function room available • FREE POOL every Thurs, 6pm onwards • Karaoke/Disco Fri & Sat 749 Lincoln Road, Peterborough Tel: 07516 395905

THE ROVING BLADES RETURN After a busy summer of festivals, Jez Hellard reunites with his band, The Roving Blades to bring their potent cocktail of acoustic dance music to Mama Liz's Voodoo Lounge in Stamford on Friday December 17. With a repertoire reaching from traditional songs, jigs and reels to funk, reggae and even tango, Jez and the band are sure to reach the parts that other bands fail to reach. Nice to see Jez playing locally again after a busy and successful schedule all over the world from Canada to China, and Glastonbury to Macedonia. He’ll be joined by Nye Parsons on double-bass, Ben Coulthard and Andi Smith on harmony vocals and percussion, Richie Haseler on drums and Canadian fiddler, Zoe Moffat, fresh from a run of gigs in Taiwan.

I suggest you grab the opportunity while you’ve got it!

Jez Hellard & The Roving Blades play at Mama Liz's Voodoo Lounge, December 17.

LIVE MUSIC FOR NEW YEAR’S EVE

Photo: Don Jackson-Wyatt

LIVE MUSIC

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

BETH MARKWICK REMEMBRANCE TOUR Giz Butt and his band The More I See are set to play a number of local gigs before Christmas. A number of them in support of a very important cause – The Beth Markwick Remembrance Tour.

They’ve organised the tour with the aim of raising money to provide road safety resources at Market Deeping comprehensive school after student Beth Markwick was killed on the A15 when she took a fateful ride in the back of a car which came off the road.

There have been several deaths on that stretch of road in the last five years, and Beth’s family and friends are trying to raise funds that will enable support for cycling schemes, pedestrian and car passenger safety training.

Children of the Revolution will be playing at Charters, Town Bridge, on New Year’s Eve, so if the idea of a disco causes shivers down your spine this is the place to be for live fans.

They play covers of the best rock bands, both classic and modern. Expect to hear Guns ‘n’ Roses next to Kings of Leon!

While Pimp Soul take over Mama Liz’s in Stamford, raucous Pogues tribute the Dead Rabbits are at the Voodoo Lounge below them. It’s a bit of an eclectic mix for the venue but one that should keep the people of Stamford partying. The Dead Rabbits are one of the most authentic Pogues tributes around (although they do have a few more teeth between them!) and have even played with various members of The Pogues. You’ll get a free shot of Mama’s Moonshine on arrival and free fizz at midnight.

GLOCK’S CORNER

A raffle will be run to accompany the tour and if you can provide any help with prizes let me know at ESP and I’ll put you in touch with Gizz.

The Beth Markwick Rememberance Tour takes in five dates: Market Deeping, The Stage, November 25.

Stamford, Voodoo Lounge, December 3.

Peterborough, Club Revolution, December 5.

Spalding, The Hole in the Wall, December 11.

Lincoln, Duke of Wellington, December 14.

Photo: Dave Ingham

At each date, The More I See are joined by three other bands each night. Names like Exit State, Komatyzed, Black Marias, Decorus, Stringfinger, Big Grin, Filthy Lucre, Monuments, DVP, The Long Count, Kamikaze Hotshot, The Ruined Vendetta and Ignition all feature. You can get full details on line-ups and ticket info from the venues themselves or from Gizz at his Peterborough studio on 603 Lincoln Road.

They return to The Deeping Stage on December 16 where the big draw will be held and will also be filmed and shown on YouTube.

www.esp m ag .co.u k ( De ce mber )

Anthony from the Candle Thieves, best known as Glock, is releasing a solo EP this month as part of a series called The Candle Thieves Present... It’s a series they’'re doing where they indulge in some music they want to make but that wouldn't necessarily fit into what the band produces.

The first CD is his solo project called Glock's Corner. It's going to be a limited release in mid December through their website and Glock’s also playing a couple of local gigs to help promote it.

Wednesday December 15 - Mama Liz's, Stamford Thursday December 16 - The Met Lounge, Peterborough You can buy the CD from their website www.thecandlethieves.com from December 6. Glock says – “It's more sort of wonky pop from the same planet as The Candle Thieves it’ll also come with free gifts!”

Live Music December Fri 3rd Sat 4th Fri 10th Sat 11th Fri 17th Sat 18th Thu 23rd Fri 24th Fri 31st

Circa 73 Gin House Mighty Quinn Daffy & The Alien The Lloyd Watson Band Electric Warriors Kat Moore & Ian Graham Live Music (TBC) Live Music (TBC)

Follow us on Facebook - The Ostrich Peterborough

• Food served daily from 12 - 3pm - Bar snacks and main meals now available see our new Menu • Selection of real ales • Food served from 12-3pm • Beer garden • Mighty Mouth Karaoke with Matt every Thur 8.30pm • Texas Hold ‘em Poker every Tuesday 7.30pm

• Family owned traditional pub serving homemade food in a friendly atmosphere.

• Food served 12pm to 9pm Monday to Saturday • Sunday Carvery served 12pm to 5pm – £7.50 per person – choice of 3 meats and a large selection of vegetables. Booking is highly recommended • Early Bird menu served Monday to Thursday 5pm to 7pm – main meals from £3.50 • Steak Night every Friday from 5pm – get a free drink with any steak or mixed grill • Free wireless internet • Four cask marque accredited real ales including two regularly changing guest ales • Tea and coffee served all day

Christmas bookings now being taken live music from double Penetration on new year’s Eve from 8.30pm

The Ostrich Inn 17 North St, Peterborough

East St, Stamford PE9 1Qd Telephone: 01780 755494

real aleS, CaSK MarQUe aPProVed, CaMra Gold aWard

Seasons Greetings from Ann, Jess and all the staff New for 2011 friday night is Steak night!

• 2 x 8oz rump steaks with all the trimmings for only £12 also Mon - fri evenings 6-8pm • 2 x main meals for £10 from the specials board Plus full menu available

• Food served daily, Mon – Sat 12pm-2pm and 6pm-9pm.

Sun 12 – 5.30pm • Quiz night every Wednesday, 9pm start. Hosted by Ann. • Sunday evening easy listening, new acoustic sessions 8-10pm • Function room available for private parties

9 Oundle Road, Fletton, Peterborough 01733 703495 www.cherrytree-inn.co.uk

GIGS gigs @espmag.co.uk

TH'PARISH + ANDY ROBINSON + THE RE ENTRANTS

MIGHTY QUINN

SAT DEC 11

IRENE RAE

Charters Town Bridge

BURLESQUE

The Rose Burghley Road

Mama Liz's Voodoo Lounge Stamford

MONKEY BOY

The Stage Market Deeping

CUTTIN' LOOSE

FRI DEC 3

PORKY PIG

The New Inn Boston

CIRCA 73

The Cherry Tree Oundle Road

CAROL ANN B Quinns Club Whittlesey

CIRCA 73

ELVIS TRIBUTE The Office Oundle Road

IAN PARKER

WED NOV 24 BRIDE OF THE ATOM The Cherry Tree Oundle Road

THU NOV 25 BLUES AGENTS The Cellar Bar Thorpe Road

OPEN MIC NIGHT

Charters Town Bridge

MONKEY BOY The Dragon Werrington

MY FIRST TOOTH + MOONEY + KERRY AND THE GIANTS + KARENINS SMILE Mama Liz's Voodoo Lounge Stamford

The Cherry Tree Oundle Road

ONE EYED CATS

THE MORE I SEE + DECORUS + STRINGFINGER + BIG GRIN

OUTA-STOCK

The Stage Market Deeping

FRI NOV 26 101 PROOF The Cherry Tree Oundle Road

ALADDINSANE The Bluebell Inn Dogsthorpe

CIRCLE The Office Oundle Road

ELECTRIC WARRIORS The Ploughman Werrington

HOOKER The Red Lion Eye

NEIL TIMOTHY The Red Lion West Deeping

PULSE The Swiss Cottage Woodston

SHAMELESS The Bell Sawtry

The Lime Tree Walton

RETROLUX

The Cellar Bar Thorpe Road

SATURDAY NIGHT SPECIAL BAND The Old Coach House Market Deeping

SHAMELESS The Peacock London Road

SKYLINERS The Fletton Club Fletton

SLIDE TO OPEN The Bluebell Inn Dogsthorpe

STORM The Ostrich North Street

THE GANGSTERS The Brewery Tap Westgate

THE GUARDS O'Neills Broadway

THE KARSIES

SPIKE NEPENTHE + TWENTY 4 BLUES SOUL EXPRESS + LESLEY The Millstone Ryhall CURTIS ZEBRA Mama Liz's Voodoo Lounge Stamford

The Bell Deeping St James

TAKING CARE OF BUSINESS

SUN NOV 28

The Cellar Bar Thorpe Road

The Fox & Hounds Longthorpe

The Ostrich North Street

THE LEXIE GREEN BAND The Rose Burghley Road

THE OVERDUBS The Fayre Spot Bretton

TWENTY 4 The Pear Tree Stamford

SAT NOV 27 BURLESQUE The Cherry Tree Oundle Road

CIRCLE The Office Oundle Road

CITIZEN SMITH The Cherry Tree Oundle Road

DOMINO The Red Lion West Deeping

GLASS HEART The Bluebell Inn Dogsthorpe

GROOVE CARTEL The Rose Burghley Road

GRUMPY OLD MEN

GOLDRUSH REX, LLOYD AND MURRAY The Rose Burghley Road

THE JEREMY WATSON TRIO Mama Liz's Voodoo Lounge Stamford

MON NOV 29 HEATHER PEACE Mama Liz's Voodoo Lounge Stamford

THU DEC 2 SHANE POOLE The Cellar Bar Thorpe Road

THE GUARDS The Dragon Werrington

THE HICKSVILLE BOMBERS + POOR BOY PAUL + MAMA GUITAR Mama Liz's Voodoo Lounge Stamford

SUN DEC 5 PENNYLESS Mama Liz's Voodoo Lounge Stamford

THE LARTEY SISTERS

Ebeneezers Grove Street

The Cellar Bar Thorpe Road

LAFFING BOYS

THE MORE I SEE + FILTHY LUCRE + MONUMENTS + DVP + THE LONG COUNT + KAMIKAZE HOTSHOT

The Carpenters Arms The Dragon Coates Werrington

The Rose Burghley Road

THE LES WOODS BAND

The Ostrich North Street

The Office Oundle Road

LOOSE BABY CHARLOTTE The Pear Tree Stamford

ONE EYED CATS The Ploughman Werrington

PORKY PIG The Old Coach House Market Deeping

RETROLUX The Swiss Cottage Woodston

STORM O'Neills Broadway

SWINGING THE LED The Cellar Bar Thorpe Road

SYMPTOM The Fayre Spot Bretton

THE MORE I SEE + WE ARE FICTION + EXIT STATE + BLACK MARIAS Mama Liz's Voodoo Lounge Stamford

SAT DEC 4 101 PROOF The Prince Of Wales Feathers Castor

BLACKOUT The Angel Yarwell

GIN HOUSE The Ostrich North Street

HOOKER The Cock Inn Werrington

IRIDIUM The Bluebell Inn Dogsthorpe

LOOSE ROCKET The Old Coach House Market Deeping

LYNETTE GROUND TRIO

CIRCA 73

LLOYD WATSON + REX + MUZZ

The Bluebell Inn Dogsthorpe

The Cellar Bar Thorpe Road

DAFFY AND THE ALIEN

FRI DEC 17

The Ostrich North Street

The Office Oundle Road

DR. A'S RHYTHM & GROOVES The Bluebell Glinton

EAT LIGHTS BECOME LIGHTS + DOUBLE HANDSOME DRAGONS + THE NO TOMORROWS Mama Liz's Voodoo Lounge Stamford

FRANKLY MY DEAR + PORKY PIG The Cock Inn Werrington

GLASS HEART The Angel Yarwell

CIRCLE CITIZEN SMITH The Swiss Cottage Woodston

DR. A'S RHYTHM & GROOVES

Charters Town Bridge

The Red Lion Eye

RIFF RAFF

THE WHISKY JAX

The Office Oundle Road

The Cellar Bar Thorpe Road

THE DAVISON WOODS BAND

TUNNEL

TWENTY 4 The Stage Market Deeping

GLASS HEART

SUN DEC 26

The Red Lion Eye

The Rose Burghley Road

JEZ HELLARD + THE ROVING BLADES

MAINSTREET BAND

Mama Liz's Voodoo Lounge Stamford

KERRY AND THE GIANTS

The Office Oundle Road

LEE MAJOR The Fayre Spot Bretton

The Cellar Bar Thorpe Road

PENNYLESS Mama Liz's Voodoo Lounge Stamford

MON DEC 20 THE WHISKY JAX The Solstice Northminster

TUE DEC 21 OPEN MIC NIGHT The Boat Inn Whittlesey

THU DEC 9

RIFF RAFF

The Red Lion West Deeping

LLOYD WATSON

TEMALLICA

FRI DEC 10 CARIBA The Office Oundle Road

DISPOSABLE MAN The Cellar Bar Thorpe Road

FATHER HEN + LEXIE GREEN + SCOTT MCEWAN Mama Liz's Voodoo Lounge Stamford

HOOKER The Cherry Tree Oundle Road

IAN AND KAT The Rose Burghley Road

THE GUARDS + CUTTIN' LOOSE The Old Coach House Market Deeping

THE MALINGERERS The Cellar Bar Thorpe Road

THE MOONLIGHT SHADOWS The Three Horseshoes Ramsey

THE MORE I SEE + THE RUINED + VENDETTA + IGNITION The Hole In The Wall Spalding

THE SIGNIFIERS

The Ostrich North Street

The Axe & Cleaver Boston

OPEN MIC NIGHT

THE BRAYS

The Cellar Bar Thorpe Road

The Solstice Northminster

PANDORA'S BOX

WED DEC 22

The Cherry Tree Oundle Road

HAYLESTONE

WHITE SPIRIT The Old Coach House Market Deeping

SAT DEC 18 CITIZEN SMITH The Cock Inn Werrington The Bluebell Inn Dogsthorpe

DR. A'S RHYTHM & GROOVES New England Club Occupation Road

The Swiss Cottage Woodston

SUN DEC 12

ELECTRIC WARRIORS

MIGHTY QUINN

Ebeneezers Grove Street

The Ostrich North Street The Bluebell Inn Dogsthorpe

PORKY PIG The Fayre Spot Bretton

GRUMPY OLD MEN LLOYD WATSON

FRENZY

MATTHEW ZILCH AND THE MEIZTERS + THE HARRINGTON BLUES The Toreador Stamford

THE JAZZ PIGEONS The Rose Burghley Road

FRI DEC 24

The Fenman Stanground

CHILDREN OF THE REVOLUTION

IRIDIUM

The Old Coach House Market Deeping

THE GUARDS

The Cellar Bar Thorpe Road

The Cellar Bar Thorpe Road

The Ostrich North Street

North Street

OPEN MIC SESSION

LLOYD WATSON

The Ploughman Werrington

KAT MOORE + IAN GRAHAM

GRUMPY OLD MEN

WED DEC 15

UNDERCOVER

The Cellar Bar Thorpe Road

TUE DEC 14

The Red Lion West Deeping

The Firkin Bourne

JAMES EDMONDS SOLO

The Rose Burghley Road

ROBBIE FOX

THE INFLUENCE

THU DEC 23

The Old Coach House Market Deeping

The Bull Inn Newborough

The Old Coach House Market Deeping

The Solstice Northminster

CRAYFISH ROCKETS The Ostrich

The Red Lion West Deeping

LES WOODS BAND

LOST ON CAMPUS + GLOCK + FRANK HAMILTON + ANDREW CREAM Mama Liz's Voodoo Lounge Stamford

THU DEC 16 GLASS HEART The Cherry Tree Oundle Road

SIMON RUSSELL + FRIENDS The Cellar Bar Thorpe Road

LISA ASHLEY

The Cellar Bar Thorpe Road

SAT DEC 25

LLOYD, REX AND MURRAY

MICK JONES

The Cherry Tree Oundle Road

STORM

The Fayre Spot The Palmerston Arms Bretton Oundle Road

The Three Horseshoes Werrington

KEN WYNNE SOLO

The Red Lion West Deeping

SUN DEC 19

The Hit Or Miss Stamford

District 7 Park Road

RETROLUX

STEVE JOHNS

The Cherry Tree Oundle Road

AARON VAN BEEKEN OVERDUBS The Stage Market Deeping

The Golden Fleece Stamford

REMAND TO VEGAS + A STORY TO TELL + ANDREW CREAM + BODEN'S PENNY

The Ploughman Werrington

JUSTIN WILSON + NIKKI BELL Mama Liz's Voodoo Lounge Stamford

PORKY PIG The Dragon Werrington

PULSE The Cherry Tree Oundle Road

CARIBA The Office Oundle Road

DR. A'S RHYTHM & GROOVES The Rose Inn Frognall

ELECTRIC WARRIORS The Ploughman Werrington

MICK DAVIDSON + FRIENDS The Rose Burghley Road

ISIAH The Cellar Bar Thorpe Road

TREVOR BUDGIE WALTON The Bell Deeping St James

MON DEC 27 CIRCLE The Office Oundle Road

THE NUGGETS The Ploughman Werrington

THU DEC 30 MURRAY HOCKERIDGE + REX + LLOYD The Cellar Bar Thorpe Road

OPEN MIC NIGHT The Cherry Tree Oundle Road

FRI DEC 31 CARIBA The Office Oundle Road

CHILDREN OF THE REVOLUTION Charters Town Bridge

CLUTCHING AT STRAWS The Ploughman Werrington

FILTHY LUCRE + IGNITION The Cellar Bar Thorpe Road

GRUMPY OLD MEN The Old Coach House Market Deeping

MATTHEW ZILCH AND THE MEIZTERS The Pear Tree Stamford

OUTA-STOCK Cathedral Square Peterborough

RETROLUX The Cherry Tree Oundle Road

SLIDE TO OPEN The Bell Deeping St James

THE DEAD RABBITS Mama Liz's Voodoo Lounge Stamford

THE GUARDS O'Neills Broadway

THE MIGHTY QUINN The Swiss Cottage Woodston

THE NUGGETS The Fletton Club Fletton

If you wanna get your gigs in ESP for free e-mail gigs@espmag.co.uk or fax on 01733 579708 or post to: ESP Magazine, PO Box 431, Peterborough, PE6 7FG. *ESP can not be held responsible for errors in this listing, be sure to check with the venue for confirmation.