JULY 2009 Issue 119
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This month’s issue is
Interview
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leisure & liFesTYle for
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EDITORIAL
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COLUMNISTS
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Andy Slater
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Directors Sharon McAllister
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ESPmag.co.uk
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Matt Zilch
For all the latest news, views, reviews and gossip, check out ESP Magazine’s Local Leisure website www.espmag.co.uk
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Susan Saunders
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HAND & HEART
JOIN THE DANCE CREW The ESP Dance Crew have been wowing the crowds with performances in Central Park and Queensgate, now here’s your chance to join them. If you can dance, freestyle as well as following varied styles of choreographed routines and fancy being a part of the ESP Dance Crew we’re looking for new members. Auditions are being held on July 11 at Werrington Sports Centre from 2.30pm. You’ll be asked to perform a short freestyle dance, plus try out a routine you’ll be taught on the day. You need to be 18 years-old or over, available for performances at evenings and weekends as well as regular rehearsals. If you’re interested text Nicole on 07515 907802 or turn up at 2.30pm prompt on the day.
The Hand & Heart on Highbury Street in Peterborough was always a favourite of real ale fans in the city but now it’s been given a new lease of life. Mary and Alan have taken over the pub, painted it up and revamped the garden. We’re hearing good reports so go take a look-see!
SMILES @ QUEENSGATE Fancy a portrait shoot? Pop into Queensgate on Thursday July 23 and take part in Queensgate Smiles and you could bag yourself a piccie and help raise cash for Sue Ryder Care. You’ll have a professional photo taken on the spot by Studio One and some will then be featured in a gallery of the portraits in the centre from August 8.
Then on August 2 you can meet some of the Posh players at the big launch of the new book ‘Boyd, Sweat and Beers’ telling the story of their rise to the championship last season. For more info call 01733 555323.
“The listeners chose the fillings by things related to Peterborough, but the outstanding winner was Stilton cheese and beetroot relish from Chaz in Werrington.” The Peterborough Sarnie is now going down a storm at Swivels priced £1.70 so give it a try and liven up your lunchtime with a taste of Peterborough. Find out more on the Peterborough Breakfast Show Facebook page or listen in on 95.7fm.
MORE CELEBS @ WATERSTONES The celebrity book signings are coming thick and fast at Waterstone’s in Bridge Street. Next up is Ainsley Harriott on July 9 at 1pm signing copies of his new cookery book ‘Just 5 ingredients’ and Pauline McLynn (Mrs Doyle from Father Ted) who’s now a humorous chick lit author will be giving a talk and signing copies of her new novel at the John Clare Theatre on Broadway at 1pm on July 15.
owner of Swivels. They were then sold for a week and the most popular one was named the Peterborough Sandwich!
TRY THE BBC PETERBOROUGH SARNIE If your lunch box is getting a little dull it could be time to try the new Peterborough Sandwich! Listeners to BBC Radio Cambridgeshire’s Peterborough breakfast show have helped create the new sarnie, now on sale at Swivels in the Westgate Arcade. Kerry Devine from the BBC Peterborough Breakfast Show told ESP “Listeners called in with their ideas for a Peterborough sandwich and the top four were picked by the
QUEENSGATE GIFT CARD Gift ideas are always tricky and if you’re tired of traipsing around the shops with no idea what to buy that special someone, try Queensgate’s brand new gift card. Valid in over 100 fantastic shops in Queensgate and the Westgate Arcade, including John Lewis, M&S, Miss Selfridge, Argos, Boots, Bhs and more, the gift card will make the perfect present, whatever the occasion. The new card can be loaded with anything from £5 to £1,000, so whether you’re giving an extravagant gift or simply offering a token of thanks, it’s perfect for every shopper. To buy one head to the
A D V E R T I S E M E N T
F E A T U R E
New Build Homebuy, shared ownership and part buy part rent are all different names for the same scheme. The scheme gives you the chance to purchase from as little as 25 per cent of a property and pay a subsidised rent on the remaining share. You can continue to purchase further shares at 12.5 per cent increments until you eventually own your home outright.
WOULD YOU LIKE TO FIND OUT MORE? Cross Keys Homes is inviting you to the opening of a brand new two bedroom show apartment at Nature Space, West Lake Avenue, Hampton Vale on Saturday, August 8. The show apartment will be open from 10.30am to 3pm and the sales and marketing team from Cross Keys Homes, along with an independent financial advisor, will be available to give advice on New Build Homebuy and discuss how to apply. Nature Space consists of a range of two and three bedroom houses, one and two bedroom apartments and two bedroom bungalows starting from as little as £19,500*. All different property types will be available to view on the day. Khuram Kaur, sales marketing officer at Cross Keys Homes’ said: “This scheme has proven to be very popular, especially with first time buyers, as it is a cheaper alternative than buying on the open market.”
DO YOU WANT TO OWN YOUR OWN HOME? New Build Homebuy, shared ownership, part buy part rent… confused? For someone who’s trying to get on the housing ladder all these terms can be pretty confusing. That’s why Cross Keys Homes are here to help. As the city’s leading housing provider Cross Keys Homes is offering affordable home ownership to help you onto the housing ladder.
If you’re unable to make the open day, Cross Keys Homes marketing duo will be outside Boots in Serpentine Green Shopping Centre, Hampton on Sunday, July 12 with all the information you will need. For further details call Khuram Kaur on 01733 396439 or email khuram.kaur@crosskeyshomes.co.uk you can also visit www.nature-space.com * A rent on the remaining share, service charge, buildings insurance and management fee is also payable.
Queensgate Information Desk on the upper ground floor between John Lewis and 02 – and because there’s no fee, the lucky person you’re shopping for gets every penny you put on the card, to spend in the centre. www.queensgate-shopping.com
Macpherson, Princess Tam Tam, Freya, Fantasie and Fayreform. Sizes in the sale range from an A-G cup. And don’t forget the chocolate shop next door for that extra special treat at The Bazaar, West Street, Oundle
NUGGETS @ NEW DECOY
FOOTPRINTS It’s good to see a new independent store opening up in the Boro so make sure you give shoe shop Footprints a look when you’re next in town. The new shop on Westgate (near The Bull Hotel) stocks the latest craze – Fitflops – which give you a workout while you walk and help tone your legs and bum! They also specialise in baby and toddler shoe fittings so if you need to get the little ‘uns sorted take a look. Tel: 01733 313890.
CAMBRIDGE DIET COMES TO STAMFORD Cambridge Diet counsellors Norma Bald and Paul Meeks, who already operate in Deeping, now have a base in Stamford as well. They’re based at The Point of Health Osteopathy Clinic, 69 Casterton Road. The Cambirdge Diet health and weight plan uses flexible programmes, balanced nutrition and advice in a plan developed over 20 years. Clients can be seen confidentially on a one-to-one basis and appointments can be arranged by calling Paula on 07747 393940 or Norma on 07535 694107.
BOAT INN IS A WINNER If you want to know where to head for a decent pint of real ale it’s The Boat Inn at Whittlesey. The pub’s been awarded the CAMRA Cambridgeshire Pub of the Year (POTY) Award for 2009. The pub now goes forward for the competition for the CAMRA East Anglian Pub of the Year award. The Boat Inn is a small family-run pub on Ramsay Road with bed and breakfast facilities and has been run by Phil and Maria since October 1995. It’s also part of the branch’s LocAle scheme, a new initiative that promotes pubs stocking locally brewed real ale. It sells beers from one of the branch’s local breweries - Elgoods and Sons Ltd.
ALL GIRLS LOVE… …sexy underwear and chocolates, so get yourselves over to Oundle and visit Eve lingerie boutique. The shop has an amazing summer sale on for July only with all sale bras for £10 and knickers/thongs at £5. Sale swimwear is half price too. Top designer lingerie brands including Ted Baker, Huit, Elle
Good news that The Decoy pub in Newborough is back, re-opened, refurbished and under new management. Not only that, but Andy and the guys there are laying on some live music to celebrate. The grand re-opening is on July 4 with Sweet Revenge supplying the tunes. Then on July 25, The Nuggets play at the pub in what will be their first public gig after a three month break. Expect quality 60s numbers from the band who you may have caught headlining at Peterborough Beer Festival last August.
SUSAN AND BGL TEAM TAKE ON THREE PEAKS ESP’s Confessions columnist and former Face of ESP Susan Saunders will be part of a team taking the Three Peaks Challenge this month. A team of 28 intrepid adventurers from Peterborough-based BGL Group will be taking part in the Three Peaks Challenge in a bid to raise £15,000 for the company’s corporate charity partner, the NSPCC. The intrepid team will climb Britain’s highest mountains (Snowdon, Scafell Pike and Ben Nevis!) back-to-back in 24 hours on July 17, and are working hard to drum up as much sponsorship as possible to boost the charity coffers for the NSPCC. We’re not sure if they’re mad or brave, but they deserve our support so to back their efforts and raise cash for the NSPCC log onto www.justgiving .com/bgl3peaks
TRASHION SHOW IN QUEENSGATE Budding Vivienne Westwoods and Stella McCartneys will be putting their creative skills on show at a Trashion Show catwalk show in Queensgate this month. The event, organised by Peterborough College of Adult Education in conjunction with local community groups is on Saturday July 11. The stage shows take place at 12 noon and 2pm and all the outfits modeled will use recycled clothes and materials. Jackie Hall, market development manager told ESP “Creating something new out of recycled items or material is becoming really popular. You create something unique and you do your bit to save the earth’s resources. It’s great fun and you can create something unique and stylish without paying the earth.” For more info contact Jackie Hall at the College on 01733 293888 or visit www.pals.ac.uk
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AN AUDIENCE WITH ARABELLA
SUMMERTIME DANCE @ THE KEY
Grumpy Old Women contributor, star of ‘The Fast Show’ and author Arabella Weir will be coming to Stamford Arts Centre on July 18, where she’ll be reading from her best-selling books and answering your questions. Her books are chick-lit but still intelligent and laugh-out-loud funny, full of observations about modern life and love – grab a gang of your girly mates and get ready to giggle! Tickets are £15. Box office: 01780 763203. Liv Slater
The Key Theatre goes dance-mad this month with no less than three dance productions from schools across the city. First up is Danzfusion’s Boogie to the Beat on July 11, a fast-paced, energetic mix of everything from hip-hop to cheerleading, to songs such as Mint Royale’s ‘Singing in the Rain’, ‘Footloose’ and the late Michael Jackson’s ‘Beat It’. If you fancy something a little more classical, then don’t miss the City Academy of Ballet’s show on July 16 and 17, which will feature an elegant adaption of the much-loved ballet, Coppelia, by both the junior and senior students. Finally, TGS will be performing Variety Xpress on July 18 – their shows have sold out for the past two years and this year they’re promising a show that rivals even the Royal Variety Performance. Tickets £8 £12. Box office: 01733 207239. Liv Slater
MUSIC AND GUNS GALORE Head to the gorgeous grounds of Burghley House for the Battle Proms concert on July 11 and see professional actors recreating famous battles, spitfire fly-pasts and equestrian displays. Following a gun salute, the New English Concert Orchestra will be playing Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture and Beethoven's Battle Symphony, which finishes with the firing of 200 cannons. Tickets are £29. Box office: 01432 355416 or www.battleproms.com Liv Slater
LEGENDS OF THE OCHE Comedy, darts legends and music – if this sounds appealing, don’t miss Legends of the Oche which comes to Stamford Corn Exchange on July 12, a special night which marks the 50th performance of the show. Eric Bristow, Bobby George and John Lowe will all be competing and 15 members of the audience will be joining them – the chance of a lifetime for darts fans! Eighties comedy legend Duncan Norvelle will be commentating, so expect a fair bit of banter between shots, as well as a stand-up set at the start of the night. If you buy 15 or more tickets it guarantees that one of you will be able to compete, so why not organise a darts competition between you and your mates in the pub? Tickets are £15. Box office: 01780 766455. Liv Slater
BOOTLEG BEATLES HIT OUNDLE Don’t miss a great summer’s evening of entertainment at the Oundle International Festival this month and grab a ticket quick for the big fireworks party. The Festival is celebrating its 25th anniversary with the Bootleg Beatles and the Manfreds providing the music. As ever there’ll be a fabulous fireworks display at the end which definitely is worth seeing. Just take a picnic, kick back and enjoy a perfect night out on July 11. Tickets to the fireworks party are £21 from 01832 275109, www.oundlefestival.org.uk or from Oundle Tourist Information Centre.
FRIDAY NIGHT FEVER Fancy a trip back to Boogie Wonderland? If a little seventies action is your thing you need a ticket for the Ultimate 70s Disco Party Night at the Holiday Inn, Thorpe Wood on July 10. DJs Steve Allen, Eddie Nash and the Barrie John Roadshow will be spinning some seriously cheesy disco anthems from the likes of Kool & the Gang, Candi Staton and Sister Sledge. Tickets are £19.95 which includes a three-course retro supper, with prawn cocktail, chicken and chips and baked alaska – seriously seventies! If you just want to pop in later to throw some smooth moves just grab a Late Night Revellers dancing-only ticket for £9 with arrival from 10pm. Box office: 01733 289931.
CARR COMING TO CRESSET Jimmy Carr is one of the UK’s best known comedians – thanks to his sharp, shocking oneliners and dead-pan delivery he’s sold out hundreds of venues and is on TV almost every night. His new show, Rapier Wit promises to be slick but a little tasteless – it’s not suitable for under 16’s and you won’t be telling the jokes to your mother, but definitely to your mates! He’ll be coming to the Cresset on September 5. The last time he came to Peterborough tickets sold out incredibly quickly, so get booking now! Tickets are £22.50. Box office: 01733 265705. Liv Slater
STONES, BONES AND POETRY Broadway Cemetary is an often over-looked but important site in the city - historic, but tranquil and beautiful at the same time, stepping inside is like stepping into another world. The Friends of Broadway Cemetary group will be holding one of its informal meetings there on July 4 at 10am, and as it coincides with the Peterborough Festival, their resident poet Chris Todd will be reading some of his work to turn it into a truly magical morning. Tours around the cemetery will be available from members of the group, although they do recommend you wear something substantial on your feet! For more information, write to PO Box 775, Peterborough PE1 4WZ or email dinewman1991@hotmail.com Liv Slater
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www.espmag.co.uk ( July )
entertainment@espmag.co.uk
LOCALENTERTAINMENT TAKE THAT TRIBUTE Gary and the boys are back big time, but if you can’t get tickets to relive the magic of Take That, here’s the next best thing! Take That 2 are live at the Holiday Inn at Thorpe Wood on July 31. the night includes a three course meal to start the party off then later you can hit the dance floor to work off some calories and sing along to the band’s most popular hits and boogie to a late night disco. Tickets are £19.95 on 0870 7879 861.
AVAST! THERE BE PIRATES IN STAMFORD! Bring the kids to Stamford Corn Exchange on July 10 and 11 for some nautical nonsense courtesy of the Stamford Pantomime Players, who are performing Pirates of Treasure Island. Produced with the younger members of the group, it’s bound to be action-packed family fun if last year’s production is anything to go by! Tickets are £8, £5 concessions. Box office: 01780 766455 or 01780 763203. Liv Slater
‘TEXT ME’ COMPETITION
3 PAIRS OF TICKETS TO SEE OASIS AT WEMBLEY! It’s the Wembley gig of the year and ESP has THREE PAIRS of tickets, with travel, worth £450 to give away. It’s the biggest date of the Oasis tour, on Saturday July 11, and you can't buy a ticket from the box office. But don’t worry if you missed out – answer a simple question and you could be on your way to Wembley. You don’t have to pay for train or parking either. You’ll get there on a luxury coach with your friend or partner direct from Peterborough. If you want to be in with a chance of winning, just complete the title of Oasis’ first album: Definitely **** Email or text in your answer, along with your name, address and phone number by July 7 and it could be your name we draw from the hat. By entering the competition you give permission for your details to be passed on to Shaws Coaches. If you miss out in the competition – or can’t take the chance of missing Oasis – contact Shaws Coaches on 01778 342224, which still has places for the huge Wembley gig. Shaws run regular trips to London and West End concerts and shows. Usual competition rules apply, winners will be notified, entries must be in by 07/07/09
TEXT HOTLINE
07762 147679 email: competition@espmag.co.uk
Fusion Contact Centre Services are continuing to grow in the current economic climate. The organisation provides contact centre services for BGL Group, the Peterborough based company behind well known motor and home insurance brands including Post Office ®, M&S, HSBC and Auto Trader as well as its own brands - Bennetts, Budget, and ibuyeco. The vibrant and friendly Fusion Contact Centre, located in Bretton, promotes a hardworking and rewarding culture which recognises and celebrates high performance. Fusion employees enjoy great salaries, exceptional training and career development and a whole host of other rewards and benefits.
restaurant at the Bretton site, run by Costa Coffee offering a range of refreshments BGL Group was named Regional Large Business of the Year in 2007 and the following year was shortlisted for the coveted titles of Employer of the Year and Business of the Year in the regional finals of the National Business Awards. There are already over 400 people employed on the Bretton Site and Fusion are regularly recruiting temporary and permanent staff. During 2009, over 50 people have joined and are now enjoying the excellent environment and benefits. Roles include inbound advisor roles, servicing sales and customer service calls, together with support function roles such as customer relations and claims handling.
Every member of the team receives a twice yearly pay review, an attractive shift allowance, a performance related monthly bonus and the equivalent of 25 days annual leave, as well as discounts with numerous local businesses. Recently, 20 Peterborough-based staff have gained a nationally recognised NVQ qualification. Nationally, 60 employees have completed the Institute of Leadership & Management (Level Three) and a further 12 are currently studying for the Level Five qualification.
Mike Howkins, Head of Fusion’s Bretton site, said “Fusion Contact Centres are in a league of their own. Our success is purely down to our people and their passion for delivering excellent service to all our customers. Our most recent recruitment drive is in line with our continued expansion plans and our business remains very stable in the current economic climate.”
There’s a wide mix of ages at the contact centre, and the team has established a Sports and Social Club to organise local social and community activities on top of company-wide events such as the BGL Annual Awards Ball and Fun Day. There is also a staff
Office hours are from 8am to 10pm Monday to Friday, 9am to 6pm Saturday and 10am to 4pm Sunday and a choice of shift patterns exist. If you’d like to be part of this fast-paced, expanding business, keep an eye on our website www.bglgroup.co.uk
PERFECT TEN
RANDALL ROOTZ MK 3 As part of our 10th Anniversary celebrations, we’re getting behind events in the city for our ‘Perfect Ten’ series and the Randall Rootz Festival is one that’s very close to the hearts of everyone here at ESP as Liv Slater reports… The New Beautiful South
Building on the success of the past two years, the Randall Rootz Festival returns on August 14 – 16, and the organisers have managed to secure UK charttoppers the New Beautiful South as the headline act this year! They had a number one hit with ‘A Little Time’ and sold over 15 million albums off the back of songs such as ‘Rotterdam’, ‘Don’t Marry Her’ and ‘Perfect 10’ – their Greatest Hits album, ‘Carry On Up The Charts’ was one of the fastest selling albums in UK history. Following a two-year break, they’ve changed their name ever so slightly and return refreshed and energised festival chairman and ESP writer Andy Whittaker told us – “It’s a stunning achievement for us to have secured a band as well known as New Beautiful South – but it’s more of a testament to the band that they’ve agreed to come and play at such an intimate venue in order to raise funds for Sue Ryder Care and Thorpe Hall Hospice!” This is what sets Randall Rootz apart from most other festivals this summer – organised in memory of well-known local percussionist and promoter Mark Randall, who sadly lost his battle with cancer in 2007, every single penny raised goes to Sue Ryder Care at Thorpe Hall, where Mark was cared for in his final months. He spent most of his life either playing music or getting bands to come to the city, and this festival, organised by his friends and family, aims to continue his love of music, diversity and community, meaning it has a vibe unlike any other.
Starting at The Brewery Tap on August 14 where New Beautiful South will be playing, (supported by Mark’s former bandmates Angryman) the festival then moves outdoors to Charters beer garden, next to Town Bridge, for the rest of the weekend (August 15 and 16). With 20 acts from as far afield as Ukraine, South Africa and Spain, highlights of the packed weekend include bhangra rock from Kissmet, alternative dance-influenced indie from Opaque and the impossibly mental Dr. Robeatnik as well as Mark’s old bands Angryman, who specialise in intense folk and roots and the Dead Rabbits, a riotous Pogues tribute. With such a diverse range of acts, there really should be something everyone can enjoy and running alongside the music there’ll be performance poetry, arts, family entertainment and environmentallyinspired workshops as well as delicious food!
The Malingerers
It is truly a fantastic weekend, last year everyone here at ESP enjoyed sitting in the sunshine, drinking beer and watching the bands. Entry to Saturday and Sunday of the festival is free and the festival relies solely on the goodwill of the bands, venues and its sponsors (Oakham Ales, Serpentine Green and The Very Special Travel Company) to keep running, so make sure you turn up and lend your support! Tickets for Friday August 14 are £15. Box Office: The Brewery Tap, Charters or 01733 358500. For more info and the full line-up, visit www.randallrootz.org
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www.espmag.co.uk ( July )
Lexie Green
Opaque
Icons of the Brave
Friday 10th July 70s Dinner & Dance £19.95 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.
Friday 31st July Take That Tribute Night £19.95 per person including 3 course dinner entertainment & disco
Holiday Inn Peterborough West Thorpewood, Peterborough PE3 6SG
Tel: 0870 7879 861 www.holidayinn.co.uk
Friday 23rd October Soul & Motown Night £19.95 per person including 3 course dinner and band
Entertainment Saturday 4th July
Winner of the Good Beer Guide 2009 ‘Own Brew Pub of The Year’ Award
Tuesday 28th July
80 Westgate, Peterborough
01733 358500 email: brewerytap.manager@oakagroup.com web: www.oakhamales.com
Black and White Night with live entertainment from The Gangsters (dress in black & white on the night to receive a free house shot) Free entry B4 10pm, £3 after. Speak Easy an evening of poetry.
OpeningTimes: Mon-Thu 12 noon - 11.00pm Fri & Sat 12 noon - late, Sun 12 noon - 10.30pm
Friday 14th August Randall Rootz MK3 Headline Act - The New Beautiful South with support from Angryman and DJ Ollie Jones. Tickets £15.
The Tap Room The Brewery Tap’s fantastic new function room available now for corporate or private functions.
Registered member of Peterborough Centre Safe
Europe’s Largest Brew Pub and home of
ENTER THE DRAGONS… The Dragon Boat Festival at the Embankment on June 21 was a huge success with Peterborough Rugby Club’s team, the SportsAid Speedsters, snatching victory from the other finalists, Gabba One from Sawtry Village College and the Tulip Vikings from Tulip Ltd. Several thousand spectators lined the banks of the Nene to watch the races and enjoy the carnival atmosphere… and many picked up a great T-shirt tan in the gorgeous sunny weather, including us! Lots of money was raised for various charities as each team had to gain sponsorship, but the main charity to benefit from the event was Peterborough SportsAid Foundation. Iain Crighton, of Crightons of Peterborough, the main event sponsor told ESP – “It was a superb conclusion to a brilliant day’s racing, with the winning boat in the safe hands of Peterborough Rugby. Last year they were nudged into third spot by just 0.4 of a second so I’m pleased they came good and raised money for the Peterborough SportsAid Foundation. This helps promising young athletes in the city area to achieve their sporting dreams.” The ‘capsizing award’ has to go to the team from The Park Inn hotel who took a dip – well at least you cooled off guys! The Lite FM team included our own Susan Saunders who’s a regular guest with Keith Dalton talking showbiz goss every Wednesday at 12 noon. Perhaps a little too much chatting going on here rather than paddling… ?
Photo: Terry Harris
Does Peterborough have its own Diversity or Susan Boyle waiting in the wings? Well, we’re about to find out as auditions for Peterborough Has Talent 2009 get underway at the Key Theatre this month.
Wendy Jones
Whether you’re a singer, dancer, comedian, juggler – just someone with a talent – this is your chance to shine and possibly win a cash prize.
First round auditions take place on Wednesday July 15 between 5pm and 8pm and Sunday July 19 between 11am and 4pm. The acts chosen will go through to the final shows, where they’ll be split into two categories: 12-years-old and under, and 13-years-old and over. Cash prizes will be on offer for first, second and third places in both groups, with £250 for the adult winner and £150 for the children’s contest winner. The live finals will take place at the Key Theatre on Saturday September 5 where they’ll be judged by a celebrity judging panel who’ll choose who will follow in the footsteps of last year’s winner, singer Wendy Jones, who recently appeared at the Peterborough Festival. This year's contest will again be in aid of the Papworth Trust, as well as the Mayor's Charities which are the Samaritans, Sue Ryder Care and the Young Carers Scheme. Andrew Cundy, one of the city council organisers, told ESP "We’re hoping this year's competition will be even bigger and better than last year. The aim is to raise lots of money for charity, while entertaining the people of Peterborough. "Last year's winner, Wendy Jones, recently supported X Factor runners-up JLS, so this year's winning act could go on to be as successful. If you have a talent, then this could be your chance to be a star for the night." For more info call Andrew Cundy on 07916 327765 or visit www.peterborough.gov.uk/peterboroughhastalent
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SOLDIERS DO BATTLE IN DEEPING Deepings Carnival will be extra special this year as 250 American Civil War Soldiers do battle at the event on July 4. The soldiers will also set up an authentic living history camp (ACWS.com) so you can see how they lived and fought. The Lions club who organise the Deepings Carnival have pulled out all the stops to make this the biggest and best yet. The good news is it’s free entry too so head to John Eve Park, Godsey Lane, Market Deeping where there’ll also be a fun fair, stalls and rides. It all starts 10am with a procession through the town lead by 60 Fife and Drum corps to kick it all off.
SHAMROCK AND ROLL Fancy a taste of the Emerald isle but can’t quite afford the air fare? If so, head to The Plough at Farcet Fen on July 10 – 12 for the Irish and Country Music Festival for three days of Irish live music, dancing and stalls. Sean Wilson and Tony Mac will be playing on the Friday, followed by a roadshow playing the best Irish and Country music until late. It’s a good idea to get a camping ticket, as the party continues on Saturday with a full day of live music from midday to midnight across two stages, from artists such as Kenny Paul, Telstar and TR Dallas. Sunday at The Plough means delicious roast dinners and once you’ve had your fill, Declan Gaynor and Blake and Brazil will be playing live in the marquee. All the family is welcome, and at just £18 for the entire weekend, it’s definitely a bargain! For tickets call - 01733 755490 or 01733 844307. Liv Slater
PETERBOROUGH FESTIVAL FINALÉ The Peterborough Festival got off to a great start and the ESP Dance Crew were there to help kick start the party in Central Park. The Festival draws to a close in style on July 4 and 5 with the action shifting to the Embankment with a first for the Fest. The Peterborough Town and Country Show will feature a medieval village, falconry displays, real jousting knights, rural displays and lots and lots of animals! All the family’s welcome, including the dog, as there’ll be a Companion Dog Show with categories ranging from pedigree classes to ‘Most Handsome Dog’ or ‘Waggiest Tail’! The action isn’t confined to dry land, as the Peterborough Boat Festival sees a flotilla of local boats convene on the Nene for a celebration of all things nautical with beautifully decorated and illuminated boats. Of course, there’ll be events taking place right up to July 5, such as the Short Film Festival at the Key Theatre, the Poets United Poetry Trail in Central Park and PRC’s Drama Students unique take on Twelfth Night at the Museum. For more info, visit www.peterborough.gov.uk/page-16242 or pick up a brochure. Box office :01733 207239. Liv Slater
Photo: Terry Harris
PETERBOROUGH HAS TALENT RETURNS
events@espmag.co.uk
LOCALEVENTS CHARITY GOES GLAM @ VERVE
Experience the delights of the East
Don’t miss one of the glitziest charity parties of the year at Verve on Church Street on August 1, all in aid of the Willow Foundation. With DJs and a free shot on entry, there’ll be a fabulous raffle with prizes such as a £30 nail voucher for Pink and White, £20 off a meal at Latinis, free entry to the Greyhound Racing for 20 people and much more, as well as a charity auction including items such as a leather jacket from Clues and a year’s membership of Feelgood Fitness. The Willow Foundation helps young people with serious illnesses and this night is organised by Louise, whose partner Darryl went through cancer last year and received a trip to see Manchester United play Chelsea and a stay in a four-star hotel! Entry is just £3 after 9pm, with £1 of this going straight to the charity. Liv Slater
CASTOR FESTIVAL FEVER This year the Castor Summer Festival Weekend takes place on July 10 – 12 and starts with the Wild West Night on Castor School field. It’s a family-friendly night with a Western BBQ and live music from The Claddagh Band, who’ll be playing country classics everyone can dance to – fancy dress is optional! The festival continues on Saturday with a church fete until 5pm including stalls, Vikings, Tug of War and games. Then everything goes disco in the evening for Saturday Night Festival Fever starring popular Abba tribute ‘ABBA Fever’, with local support and a seventies disco well into the night. Tickets for Friday are £4, for Saturday they’re £12. Box office: 01733 380900. Liv Slater
GLAMOROUS GOLDEN BALL A GREAT SUCCESS The Feathers and Boas-themed Golden Ball at the Marriot hotel last month was a resounding success, raising £3,000 for Sue Ryder Care Thorpe Hall Hospice. There were over 150 guests, which included Face of ESP, Claire Smith. "The Golden Ball was a fun and fabulous fundraising charity ball for the Thorpe Hall Hospice, which costs around £2 million a year to run. It was an evening full of entertainment with choreographed Burlesque performances from the Desert Dancers and live music from After Dark. “My friend Emma and I also got involved in the night and helped raise just under £300 with the raffle for a beautiful jade and pearl necklace. Well done to Claire and Sally the organisers for all their hard work!” The Golden Ball takes place every year, so watch this space for more details about next year’s event a little nearer to the time. If you have a special event coming up and would like to look just as gorgeous as Claire did, her fabulous dress came from Fusion at Market Deeping, who have a great range of dresses to die for. Just give them a call on 01778 344202 or pop into the shop at 3 High Street, Market Deeping. Liv Slater
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According to the University of Hertfordshire it takes 30 seconds for 45% of women to decide if they’ll sleep with you. Firstly this means I’ve been wasting time meeting the remaining 55% and secondly I’ve wasted hundreds of hours on dates when all I needed to give was half a minute to get a green light.
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WELCOME BACK RAFT RACE The Deepings Raft Race returns! After two years in the wilderness organisers have decided to bring back the race that I once ‘captained’ an ESP raft in (it was a pallet from Homebase). Yes we were pelted with flour and capsized within minutes, but it was still one of the best Sunday afternoons I’ve spent in Deeping since loosing my virginity there back in the early 90s.
CONVERTED FROM SCOOTER TO BIKE! So here I am, it’s only my third lesson with CAM Rider and I’m sitting on a Honda CB5OO. My instructors tell me it’s a testament to my riding skills and that I’ve earned my promotion to a 500cc bike. While some of that may be true (my head won’t fit in the helmet I know), I put it largely down to the excellent tutoring I’ve been receiving. The first thing I notice is this massive fuel tank in front of me. I’m also aware how much heavier this bike is compared to what seemed like a hair dryer-powered 125cc I had my previous lesson on. Then I start it up and notice the biggest difference – noise and power! I was told I’d find a bigger bike easier to ride and how right they were.
This year the two main events – the Raft Race Dance and Raft Race will be held on August 1 and 9 respectively. The dance takes place at the Deepings Leisure Centre, where you’ll be treated to The Brays and Mark Owen Disco. Money raised from the race will go to Sue Ryder Care to help at their local centre at Thorpe Hall in Peterborough. So get raft building and sponsored but if that’s not your bag then join what organisers hope will be the biggest fancy dress party the world has ever seen. They want to try and set a Guinness World Record for the biggest fancy dress street party! The return of the race is great news for the area. Last year saw the Great Eastern Run make a comeback in Peterborough and this year’s Dragon Boat Race and Peterborough Festival were bigger and better than ever. It’s vital events like these continue to prosper and I’d like to see even more make a return to the city and surrounding areas. Does anyone want to bring back the World Disco Dancing Championship? I think it was once hosted at the Wirrina (RIP)… For raft race details check out www.deepingsraftrace.co.uk
I was bedded into this 500cc for the first part of the lesson. It was all about familiarisation of the machine, slow-riding and clutch control – all done at the CAM Rider compound at their Werrington headquarters. I couldn’t believe how comfortable it felt to ride and navigate through the cones doing figures of eight and even an emergency stop. Satisfied I was ready for the road, my instructor Fran led me out onto the A15 and it was at this point where I had a moment of realisation. Up until now the reason I wanted to pass my full bike test was to ride Vespas of more than 125cc. I’d seen a 300cc one I couldn’t wait to get my hands on. But as I accelerated through the gears up to 70mph something in me changed. The power, control, noise and adrenaline. Everything made me want to get a motorbike and I was converted. Riding a motorbike felt much more responsive compared with a scooter, it stirs your senses and fills you with an unrivalled rush. Fran took me through all the drills I’d previously mastered on the 125 and ended my lesson with emergency stops, u-turns and the contentious swerve manoeuvre – all of which make up the Module One part of the new bike test. This part is arguably the trickier of the two modules and I’ll get to find out just how tough it can be when CAM Rider take me for a lesson at the test centre next month… Visit www.camrider.com or email peterborough@camrider.com. Call: 01733 320820.
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BEERS FOR THE BOYS I couldn't write this month's column without mentioning the recent off-the-field successes of Peterborough Rugby Club. Not only did the boys win this year's Dragon Boat Race, but they also picked up the Oakham Ales Brewery 'Oakademy of Excellence' award for maintaining the highest standards possible in quality beers. It's all down to general manager Nigel Cook, who's seen here being presented with his accolade by John Bryan, Malcolm Wheeler and Paul Hook from Oakham Ales. Well done Nigel. If there was an award for the best value rolls made and served at a bar then believe me I'd give it to you guys. The cheese and onion roll I scofffed from your place earlier this year was nearly as good as the glass of Chateau Fengate I washed it down with!
FATHER’S DAY THE ITALIAN WAY Here’s another suspect piece of research for you. OnePoll revealed that 29% of people in East Anglia (3,000 polled) believed the best way to bond with their dad on Father’s Day was by going to the pub together. They obviously didn’t ask an Italian. We bond with our dad by helping him to wash out used bottles of sparkling mineral water ready for this year’s wine making, hanging salami and chilli peppers from the garage roof beam together and watering tomato plants and fig trees at the allotment. So much more cultured.
HAPPY COCKTAIL HOURS AT BAR CUBA! Man About Town sponsors, Bar Cuba and Latinis are celebrating their new cocktail menu with a happy hour every Monday to Friday when you can buy one get one free from 6 to 9pm. Jay and Raj also recently introduced a new evening menu, which I tucked into with my homeboys Phil, Gav and Simon last month (let’s do it again soon lads). Glam returns on July 4 – a top night with some of the city’s most popular DJs. For details of this and more events visit www.latinis.co.uk
SUSAN AND HER PEAKS
• • • • • •
Thursday £1 night - Sunday £1 day Live entertainment every Friday + Saturday Lunchtime menu available for light meals Outside patio and covered smoking area Function room for hire Wednesday night - Open Mic night
5 Scotgate, Stamford. Tel: 07792 864982
Fellow columnist Susan Saunders is attempting the Three Peaks Challenge on July 17 and 18. I think this means she’ll climb a couple of mounds and grassy knolls (probably in her heels and lip gloss) in Wales or maybe even England or some other green and windy place. Anyway, the important bit is that she’s doing it to raise money for the NSPCC. Susan and her work colleagues have a target of £15k to aim for, that’s £500 for each participant. I know Susan is friends with some Posh players, so I’m guessing they’ve already sponsored her £500 between them, haven’t you boys?! But if anyone else wants to get behind our Susan then visit www.justgiving.com/bgl3peaks Good look Susan, at last an excuse for grass stains on your knees…
STAY SINGLE!
OUT:
CIAOS
News just in as we were going to press with this issue, the European Commission of Human Rights has approved the new ‘International Symbol of Marriage.’ Details to follow next month. • • • • • •
Carlo – how much ‘wop luck’ can your stag do absorb? Angela the police CCTV lady – I once had a leak behind Woolies, sorry! Tony, mezza morte and Dale – Vegas in October? Gary – the ‘Soul Room’ is worthy of the canvas, we approve Vic – thanx for my Alfa Spider, get me a Triumph Street Triple next? x Phil @ Fratelli’s – did that table of birds ask for our numbers?
• Sky Sports and Setanta • Home cooked food every day • Value meals from £3.99 • Children’s menu • Sunday lunch 12 -6pm • Real ales and regular entertainment Napier Place, Orton Wistow. Tel: 01733 230 375
IT COULD BE YOU! Yes, you could be the one to fill Claire Smith’s high heels and change your life… but only if you give it a try. We’ve begun the hunt for the girl who’ll become our next Face of ESP and we’re looking for a girl with a great personality who takes care of her looks and can be an ambassador for the magazine. We will make you a ‘face’ about town and give you the celebrity treatment for a whole year. At the age of 33 Claire was a little unsure about whether to give it a try and only plucked up courage to enter at the very last minute. “I was at work one day and initially thought I was too old, but then later thought ‘what the hell’. I didn't tell a soul that I’d done it, just in case nothing happened, so you can imagine my surprise when I was called for the first round of interviews! Then when I received the call that I was in the final, I just couldn't believe it. “I can remember sitting on the stage and looking to my left and right and seeing the other five top six finalists on the night and thinking, how on earth did I get here. After more questions, the number of the finalist was announced and it didn't register at first this was me. I think it’s quite clear from the photos just how shocked I was. “Being the ambassador of the magazine was something I wanted to be proud of and I am completely! Sharon, Sean and the ESP team work really hard at producing a magazine that gives you the latest events and up to date features and I don’t feel they receive enough credit. This year has really opened up my eyes to what
FASHION
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Peterborough can offer and how much is going on - without ESP I really wouldn't have known. “My most memorable moment so far is really hard to depict as there have been quite a few already… meeting Alan Carr, being given a convertible for a couple of weekends, the Sue Ryder Midnight Walk… but I’ll never forget learning how to horse ride. I used to be quite phobic of horses but Paula from the New Range Riding School at Eye Green took a lot of time to help me get through it and actually taught me how to ride. It was a huge achievement for me. “I would encourage anyone to enter. It doesn't matter what age, shape or size you are. ESP allows you to show who you are as a person and helps build your different skill sets - communication, social, professional and most of all confidence. I’ve found the role not only rewarding, exciting, fun and very entertaining but it will be a year I will truly never forget. I will really miss the ESP team when my year is over. “My advice to anyone who gets through is just to be yourself. If you try too hard, pre-plan what you’re going to say or force anything, it shows. Be honest, friendly and most of all enjoy it.” So come on girls… this year it could be you!
WIN over
£5,000 in prizes Enter now www.espmag.co.uk or pick up an entry form from our sponsors. Call 01733 579707 or email face@espmag.co.uk for details. You must be 18 years-old by the time of the Finals Night on Friday September 11 at the Holiday Inn West, Thorpe Wood and be available to attend events and photo shoots for the full 12 months.
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ORGANIC COTTON WHITE RIBBED BUTTON UP T-SHIRT
FLORAL ORGANIC COTTON VEST TOP New Look - £7
New Look - £6
joanne.quinney@espmag.co.uk
LOCALFASHION
Calling all Eco Warriors!
It's time to hit the catwalk, in an eco-friendly way! ESP joined forces with Peterborough Environment City Trust as part of the Green Festival - ESP's Joanne Quinney reports on the catwalk event... The fantastic ESP dancers kicked off the show with a superb performance as per usual. The event was part of The Green Festival; for which Peterborough Environment City Trust and ESP came together to create a fashion show to highlight that fashion doesn't need to be harmful to the environment. When we’re choosing new trends we often put price and trendiness at the top of the list; but this
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show was designed to get us thinking about how we can be green when we shop for the latest looks. Conventional cotton is grown using loads of pesticides which kill thousands of agricultural workers every year, but organic cotton and other eco fabrics like hemp are far more environmentally (and people) friendly. A selection of stores in Queensgate showed the great range of colourful and on trend tops they sell which look
fantastic but are eco-friendly too. You can shop with a conscience at high street favourites such as New Look, Next, H&M and Laura Ashley. Students from Peterborough Regional College kicked things off with their collection of abstract couture designs. Their objective was to create garments made from non-conventional materials, constructed in an interesting way. Dresses were made using cardboard and paper from
ORGANIC COTTON CHECK BOOB TUBE New Look - £16
PURPLE FAIRTRADE COTTON T-SHIRT (AVAILABLE IN OTHER COLOURS) Laura Ashley - £16
magazines and was linked with the college new media department. ESP's Face of ESP girls Claire and Becca, our male model JJ, along with students from Arthur Mellows College and New College Stamford were the gorgeous models. Students from Arthur Mellows and PRC also created recycled garments using old discarded clothes from the Sue Ryder Vintage and Retro shop on Bridge Street and these were mixed and matched with accessories made by students from Stamford. Discarded textiles are one of our largest waste problems generating 3.1 million tonnes of carbon
dioxide. By showing ways in which clothes can be recycled and re-created in new and interesting ways not only helps you look fab but means you'll be helping the environment for our future! www.espmag.co.uk ( July )
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I NY Fashion
Westgate Department Store in Peterborough is proud to introduce their exciting new fashion range, New York Laundry. Always up to the minute on the latest catwalk trends, the New York Laundry range prides itself on having a fast fashion ethos with a rapid product turnover always ensuring the latest fashions are in-store at affordable prices. The Summer 2009 range is an exciting mix of trends and
the Westgate Department Store featured two fashion shows recently to show off these fabulous new collections. ESP’s Mike Harris was there to capture the catwalk action. From romantic feminine dresses that feature in the ‘Ruffle Love’ range to bold and colourful party dresses from the ‘80’s Rewind’ collection, New York Laundry is always one stiletto ahead of the style game. Amazing discounts are now available throughout the store with the summer sale offering up to 60% off, so go bag yourself a (stylish) bargain!
11-15 London Road, Peterborough PE2 8AN Tel: 01733 342108 www.thepartyshopsuperstore.co.uk
• Now open Sundays • Free entry all night Fri, Sat, Sun 10.30pm – 3am • All drinks £2 ‘til midnight • 70’s, 80’s, 90’s & modern music
Cheyne Lane, Stamford. Tel 01780 481354
The Hole in the Wall • Excellent home-cooked food served daily Tues to Sat • Senior citizen special – All food half price Tues to Fri • Sunday carvery 12 – 3pm - £6.95 small, £8.95 large • Pints £2 - all day Tues, Wed and Thur • Probably the best free-play video jukebox in town • Karaoke Saturday 9pm – 12mn Cheyne Lane, Stamford Tel 01780 764226
Black Bull Fri & Sat lunch - Any pizza + any drink £4.95 Sky Sports Karaoke every Fri ‘til late Disco every Sat ‘til 2am
Stamford Walk, Stamford Tel 01780 481354
Matt
S Zilch T A M F O R DCALLING matt.zilch@espmag.co.uk
MATT SAYS... Another action packed month here in Stamford, filled with many highlights. Firstly I’d like to thank all the people who came down to the debut gig of my full band at Quayhole Kates, I’m looking forward to doing more gigs with the lads starting with the Toreador on July 2. Another highlight was going to see Kasabian with my band mate and dare I say it ‘friend’ Spiky T Smith at their hometown, Leicester. I have to say I really do believe they’re one of the best live bands in the country at the minute and to think just a few years ago they supported my old band on one of their first gigs at the Club With No Name at The Park in Peterborough. Whatever happened to my Brit nomination?!
PERFECT TEN
RIVERSIDE FESTIVAL The highlight for me this month is most definitely The Riverside Festival on Saturday July 4 which ESP is supporting. We’ve made it one of our ‘Perfect Ten’ events, a series of events we’re either staging or adopting throughout the year to mark the mag’s tenth anniversary so look out for us on site. The Riverside is an open-air music festival held annually on the first Saturday of July on the Meadows in Stamford, showcasing at least 30 bands and artists, usually more, mostly from the surrounding area, on at least three main stages – the Riverside Stage, the Marquee Stage and the Acoustic Stage. But the Riverside Festival is not just about music. There are fairground rides, a variety of children's entertainment, food, craft and trade stalls, Stamford’s biggest and best beer festival and a spectacular fireworks finale. I’ve played the festival many times over the years but this year I’ll be pottering round and taking the time to enjoy it (and most probably a few light ales!) Here are my three must see bands of the festival…
WHITE CLOUDS AND GUNFIRE (Riverside Stage, 4.25pm) Fronted by the tiny girl with the big voice, this band really pack a punch with a great pop/punk sound. The guys tell me their influences span as far from dance music to metal and are always willing to bring something different to the table. With their songwriting being a really collaborative process, they tell me their material is “a little piece of all of us”. With the band only gigging for about six months, in that short time they’ve already managed to get some really positive feedback and are booking loads of gigs up and down the country. Can’t wait to see them in action at this year’s festival!
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PORTMAN
THE RUINED
(Marquee Stage, 6.35pm)
(Marquee Stage, 7.25pm)
My next band is Stamford’s own, Portman. These guys have been playing for quite a few years now and I’ve seen them locally a few times and they always deliver a great show. I’m sad to hear that this is going to be their final show, although the guys don’t seem too disheartened about it and see it more of a celebration. Singer Matt told me: “We achieved way more than we had ever hoped to, we've released an album and now an EP, toured a bunch of times with some awesome bands and played all over the country.”
Hailing from Peterborough, The Ruined are a punk rock band with a difference. Drawing influences from a wide range of sources, this exciting live act sit somewhere between Smash-era, Offspring and Danzig-era Misfits, with hints of hardcore and classic rock thrown in. Since the band’s incarnation, they’ve torn up stages all over Europe, with numerous successful tours covering the UK, France, Germany and Czech Republic.
Portman have been influenced by bands such as Osker, Hot Water Music, Last Days of April and The Appleseed Cast. I wish the guys all the best for their final gig and recommend you get down to see them for the last time!
The band's first incarnation was back in 2005 started by the singer (Nekro) Shaun under the name Flesh Sandwich. After a couple of line-up changes, The Ruined was born. The aim was to create a band that wouldn’t just play to a punk rock crowd but one that could reach into many genres whilst bringing lyrics straight out of the morgue for your listening pleasure!
JOLLY BREWER IS BEST OF THE REST! I’ve got to say congrats once again to The Jolly Brewer which has just been awarded the prestigious CAMRA Lincolnshire Pub of the Year 2009 award. Peterborough & District CAMRA initially presented the pub with a Gold Award for ‘a much improved range of real ales and a fully revitalised pub’ and now the guys are celebrating winning the biggie – the branch’s highest accolade. The pub’s gone from strength to strength and fully deserves this recognition so go and sample a pint if you haven’t done so already. The Jolly Brewer’s a 300 year-old, stone-built pub with an L-shaped room around the bar and a small dining area. There’s a great community spirit generated by Jill and Dean who’ve been in charge for over three years. The pub offers an ever-changing choice of some fine real ales. Of particular interest, The Jolly Brewer is part of the branch’s LocAle scheme, a new initiative that promotes pubs stocking locally brewed real ale and working with breweries on their doorstep – which can’t be bad. The pub now goes forward for the competition for the ‘CAMRA East Midlands Pub of the Year’ award so fingers crossed!
LIKE A ROLLING STONE The live music nights at the Corn Exchange Theatre just keep on coming and the place has a real buzz about it so if you haven’t gone along to anything yet, give these guys your support. On the line-up this month is Chris Farlowe. He’s been has been performing for nearly 50 years – his best known hit is ‘Out of Time’, written for him by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards. He’s seen pretty much everything and been everywhere, but he still sounds as fresh and exciting as when he first started out and he’ll be coming to the Stamford Arts Centre on July 8. Tickets are £14. from the box office on 01780 763203.
THIS TOWN’S GOT TALENT The popular Battle of the Towns talent contest, Bourne v Stamford, has been taking place for the last six weeks to see which town has the most talented performers.
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The Bourne heats have been held at The Nags Head. It’s been an incredibly popular event, with some amazingly talented competitors, with the grand final being held in Stamford.
Plus BUY 1 GET 1 FREE all bottles ‘til 11pm Double-Up Smirnoff for £1
Five qualifiers have been held at pubs in each town and now it’s time for the best acts to go head to head to see which has the most talent.
70s, 80s, 90s & cheese
The finals night is July 24 and will be held at the Toreador on Broad Street Stamford from 7.30 pm and I’ll be one of the judges (Simon Cowell eat your heart out!) The night promises to be lots of fun with families welcome. The lucky winner will receive £900 in cash and half a day’s recording studio time, the runner up will receive £300.
Live DJ every Wed, Thurs, Fri & Sat Karaoke every Wednesday Every Friday & Saturday after 12pm in brownes:
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sarah.tempest @espmag.co.uk
EAST OF ENGLAND SHOW-HOFF Hot off the back of their Living TV show ‘When Scott Met the Hoff’, Radio 1 DJ Scott Mills has again teamed up with the legendary David Hasselhoff for a new show where he introduces the Hoff to all things quintessentially English. And with the whole of England to choose from, where did Scott choose to bring the superstar to highlight the cutting edge of English culture? None other than our fair city! How surreal to be wandering around the East of England Show, looking at the tractors, stuffing your face with ice cream (or is that just me?) and to look up to see Knight Rider herding pigs?! And no, that’s not a euphemism for rejects from America’s Got Talent. Not quite sure what was with the Barclays Bank sign (hopefully nothing to do with rhyming slang) but I seriously wondered what they’d put in my Magnum! Before judging a sheep contest (I’ll bet the swimsuit round was interesting) and presumably crowning the most baaeautiful one the winner, The Hoff had dropped by Peterborough Town Cricket Club in Bretton where he tried on pads, signed autographs and had a go in the nets. I have, however, been unable to substantiate the rumour that he got the wrong end of the stick when they asked him to bowl a maiden over nor that he particularly enjoyed bowling on a length. The Hoff herding pigs in Peterborough, whatever next? Don’t know about you but if it’s anything less than Pamela Anderson downing a pint in The Tap, I’m going to be severely disappointed.
T FORG ET M E atNtheO BBC news the other moment, having watched the
HERE’S JOHNNY! Having spent the whole of my adult life trying, I’m delighted to say I have finally managed to lose half a stone quickly. Very quickly. In fact, to be precise, I’ve lost 7lbs 13oz in 36 hours and before you get excited and rush out to blow your sho e budget on the latest fat annihilating wonder drug, my 7lbs 13oz is called Johnny Alexander and is com pletely gorgeous! Regular readers will have noti ced the absence of my column in last month’s ESP and far from skiving on a Spanish island pickling myself in sangria, I was in actual fact stuck in hospital and the only thing I was off my face on was gas and air. I wouldn’t say it hurt but Johnny was nearly named ‘epi dural’ in gratitude. He has his mum’s eyes, his mum ’s dimples, his mum’s lips (wasted on a boy!) and hopefully his mum’s brain (sorry, daddy, but the closest you ever got to University was the garage on the Cam bridge bypass) but fingers crossed he gets his dad’s bum , disposition, common sense and sporting ability. Bec ause if he gets mine, the poor lad is screwed!
fret about just a bad As if I haven’t got enough to estly, I’m not kidding, it’s not ed I have Alzheimer’s. Hon vinc con it. The lly ve tota pro to e now enc I’m t, evid nigh ut, I have ry mother has warned me abo eimer’s and Alzh y earl ct case of ‘baby brain’ that eve dete to ised dev ) cognitive test has been new ‘test your memory’ (TYM itional, mini mental-state more accurate than the trad and ker quic it’s researchers say sat in their doctor’s waiting es selv ied out by the patient them carr be can sample and n atio min exa answering a couple of the interesting so decided to try ng with ‘S’ it inni beg s ture room. I thought it sounded crea 4 e Nam ’s where the trauma began. rs on questions myself – and that And then I got stuck. 24 hou fidently began with snake. con and ght thou s. Next look it as y said. ‘Easy,’ I eas as t isn’ this ‘snail’ to my list. Yikes, strong and I’ve only managed to add ous? History was never my rld War start?’ Are they seri Wo t Firs there you the So s. did r yike yea or at question – ‘Wh do some sums. Maths. Maj ive proof, they want you to witty ending to ely hug a with up e com point. And finally the conclus nosis. I had am well on my way to diag otten what it is… have it, I’ve clearly failed and ive me, I appear to have forg forg but, ne chli pun s riou this piece, a completely hila
VERY, VERY HIDDEN DEPTHS Fearne Cotton has a new show coming soon on ITV2. She’s apparently going to be shadowing some famous people so she can ‘peel back the layers of celebrities lives’. And who’s she going to be shadowing? None other than celebrity featherweights such as Peaches Geldof and Paris Hilton. Peeling back the layers of their vacuous shopping, party-going lives? Blimey, it’s clearly going to be a very short show.
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FEEDING HIS EGO Having slimmed down to a size 8 earlier this year after £15, 000 of cosmetic surgery and liposuction, Kerry Katona was photographed on holiday in a silver bikini and looked, much as it and Kerry is photographed hurts me to admit it, pretty good. Fast forward five months ten too many mini kievs on scoffing and Iceland to trips l having clearly been on severa husband Mark Croft. So, again’ off holiday being spoon fed junk food by her ‘on again of a husband. Next leach her dumps and n attentio gets she slims down, looks hot, figure and her her loses she thing, she has him back, he feeds her rubbish and n with insecure, commo too all is and ge sabota called it’s confidence. Kerry, my love, up, smell the wake , Please place. selfish men who need to keep their women in their time! this good For skinny latte and dump him.
Charlotte Jolly has the ESP guide to what’s hot in health and beauty this month…
HEALTH and beauty EDEN ONLINE
HOLIDAY BEAUTY BAG ESSENTIALS
A Peterborough hair salon is staging a double celebration to mark its first birthday and the launch of its website.
If you’re lucky enough to be jetting away on holiday this year, don’t overload your suitcase with beauty products, keep things simple yet effective. Make sure you include some much needed suntan lotion and keep the rest to these holiday beauty essentials.
Eden Hair Studio is inviting existing and new clients to an open afternoon of celebration on Saturday July 4 with demonstrations, offers, raffles and goody bags.
Clean Skin – The recycled air on aeroplanes can really take its toll on your skin so remove your make-up during the flight and every day to prevent clogged pores and dull skin. These Simple cleansing facial wipes are ideal for even sensitive skin as they are free from alcohol, perfume and colour .They remove even the most stubborn waterproof mascara and will leave your skin feeling toned and refreshed.
Amanda Quinn opened the salon in Oakleigh Drive, Orton Longueville last July and since then has built up a team of six hair designers, trainees and nail artists. "I've been delighted with how well our first year has gone and we’ve built up a fantastic client base - exceeding all my expectations," Amanda told ESP. "This is my chance to say thank you to everyone who's been involved in achieving that." The salon has also launched its website www.edenhairstudio.co.uk strengthening the brand. The celebrations at Eden Hair Studio are between 2pm and 5pm. Guests will be invited to indulge in nibbles and a glass of bubbly, enjoy free hair care consultations and mini manicures, watch demonstrations on 3D nail art and take a chance on a raffle with many prizes including salon treatments and hair care sets from Tigi and Matrix. "I'm looking forward to seeing as many of our existing clients as possible and welcoming some new faces into the salon too," said Amanda.
BUY OF THE MONTH… This month’s must have item has to be The Body Shop’s Coconut Shimmer Body Butter. Suitable for normal to dry skin, not only does it soften and moiturise due to the shea butter and cocoa butter formula, but it also adds a subtle shimmer to skin, perfect for a night out. It leaves you smelling and looking simply gorgeous!!! £12.50 for 200ml from The Body Shop in Queensgate.
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Hydration – For an inflight moisture boost and ideal after a day soaking up the sun, Evian Brumisateur Facial Spray is the perfect way to cool down and hydrate your skin. Lip Protection – Lips are very sensitive and will become dry and cracked after prolonged exposure to the sun which is never a good look. Keep your lips soft and protected with Vaseline Lip Therapy with SPF15. This pocket size Vaseline soothes and softens lips whilst the SPF15 protects them from the sun’s harmful rays. Soft Skin – Apply this great smelling lotion onto your skin after sunbathing and whilst travelling to keep skin soft and hydrated. The Sanctuary Spa Essentials mini body lotion is only 50ml so is perfect for your holiday beauty bag or even your hand luggage. Hair Care – Sun, Sea and Chlorine on holiday are all hair enemies, leaving it dry and brittle. Invest in some sun-specific products such as Charles Worthington Takeaways Sun-Shine UV Protection Shampoo and Conditioner which remove salts and chlorine whilst replacing lost moisture - ideal for sun damaged, thirsty hair. Neat nails – Keep your nails in tip top condition whilst away with these new Tweezerman’s Matchbox Itty Bitty Nail Files, perfect for popping in your beauty bag. Each box contains 12 disposable nail files and there are 5 designs to choose from. This is fun and handy beauty fashion at its best!!
MALE GROOMING FOR THE MODERN MAN Barnets hairdressers on Oundle Road, Peterborough are offering a new grooming experience just for men. Shaving is one of those male traditions that used to be passed down from father to son but it somehow turned into an everyday routine that’s rushed through in the mornings without a second thought. These days men of all ages are paying more attention to their appearance, so it’s no wonder that one of the hottest trends right now for men is the return to the traditional wet shave. This ‘old fashioned’ method of shaving is actually one of the best quality shaves a man can get. With recent demand, Amy from Barnets decided to go on a Hot Towel Wet Shaving course to learn the tricks of the trade. Firstly a hot towel with aromatherapy oils is applied to the skin to open up pores and soften bristles. Skin is then exfoliated to remove dirt and oil and reduce the risk of ingrown hairs, something most men don’t do. Shaving cream is applied before a traditional ‘cut throat’ shave is carried out. It’s all finished off with a cold towel treatment to close the pores and prevent infection and a moisturiser to calm and replenish skin. Gavin Hyde, singer with well known Peterborough band The Brays, stepped into the hot seat at Barnets to give it a try and told me it’s the best shave he’s ever had. “I’d wanted to try this for years but you just can’t get to do it unless you’re somewhere like London. “It was just lovely. My face felt amazing afterwards and my skin was great because it had been so well looked after. This is the closest we can get for pampering for men! Every guy should give it a go.” The shaving service is available now and the price is just £15. If you have a hair cut and a wet shave, then the wet shave is done at the reduced price of £12. So guys, what are you waiting for? This is pampering for men at its best and will leave you ready for anything whether it be an interview, date or just a night out with the boys. For further details or to make an appointment please contact Amy at Barnets on 01733 394041.
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Karen Devine
AS SEEN ON karen.devine@espmag.co.uk
TV GMTV, LK Today and UKTV Style’s ‘Spa of Embarrassing Illnesses’
So just what is a ‘balanced’ diet? It’s amazing how you feel when you sit out on a warm sunny day looking out across the sea, watching the simplicity of life. Right now that’s exactly what I’m doing writing this column. I’m half way through running a detox retreat, but it’s not the simplicity of life that’s on my mind, but wondering how food and nourishment has become such a complex issue and why many of us have now become confused and completely mistrust the quality of our food. We might be lucky enough to experience plenty of food; unfortunately plenty does not always mean quality! Not only are we seeing a decline in nutrients in our foods we now have to contend with looking out for GM (Genetically Modified) and radiated foods. The question is what is a healthy ‘balanced’ diet? Our cells need vitamins, minerals, proteins, carbs, essential fats, enzymes, water and oxygen to function, so yes our ‘basic’ needs are the same. But what if you smoke, are under stress, drink too much alcohol, exercise frequently or take drugs (medical or recreational). Is it not obvious that your nutrient requirement might just be a heck of a lot more than the typical recommended amount just to help support your habits or lifestyle? Take smoking as an example - advising a smoker that if they give up their health would benefit and they’d have more money is a bit patronising to say the least as I’m sure they’re already aware of that fact. Ideally they need to be advised to boost their essential fats, their antioxidant intake and boost their
vitamins and minerals as smoking will severely deplete these which can lead to health problems. So their ‘5 a day’ might just double or triple to at least support the bad habit of smoking. (I’m not suggesting you continue smoking, just making a point, of course it would be recommended to stop!) Nutrient needs will vary from person to person. Think about how you feel right now. A healthy diagnosis is generally understood as ‘freedom from disease’. But what about sub-optimum health? It may be that you’re known to be healthy but struggle with a variety of niggling problems from day to day such as - Feeling tired most of the time (despite sleep) - Bowel troubles - Skin problems - Hormone problems (heavy periods, PMT, low libido etc) - Craving foods (refined carbs, sugary foods, salt etc) - Constantly gaining and losing weight (or not losing anything at all) - Stressed out (nothing uses up your nutrients quicker than stress) - Full of anxieties, fears and worries… and much more Maybe you don’t really feel in optimum health the majority of the time, so could what’s known as a ‘balanced’ diet need a bit of a boost? Wouldn’t it be more beneficial to you to support the weakness with a larger boost of good nutrients to at least
compensate for some of those extremes in your life, or bad habits that you really know you should cut back or eliminate totally? What about how you cook the food or what you add onto your food (such as salt) which can increase the need for extra nutrients to metabolise them? So when it comes to you as an individual your basic needs might be the same as everyone else but your ‘optimum’ nutrient intake will vary depending on factors in your life right now! For more information on health and nutrition go to my website www.karendevine.co.uk Karen
KAREN’S BACK ON THE BOX! ESP columnist Karen Devine will be back on TV later this year hosting 'The Last Resort' which will air on BBC1 prime time in Ireland. It’s a series in which six people go along to a retreat, literally as the last resort to solve their health issues. Karen will be fronting the detoxing and nutritional profiles joined by a clinical psychologist and other therapists to support their physical / mental / emotional challenges.
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.
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Confessions... Susan Saunders
susan.saunders@espmag.co.uk
Once Upon A Time… ... in a land far, far away lived a lovely Princess. (OK, so not quite a royal Princess but this is what her daddy had called her). A Princess, similar to Rapunzel and the like. By day, said Princess indulged herself in the odd shopping trip, socialising with girlfriends and by night, after supper, the very same Princess would spend her time being serenaded by potential suitors. Like I say, that was once upon a time and as I have come to discover, real life fairytales don’t occur quite so often these days. Recently the scene was set and all of the components were there for a beautiful fairytale – a Princess (from the daddy pronounced society), a potential suitor (well, a man) and in addition, one other ingredient that doesn’t quite belong in a fairytale – alcohol – and plenty of it! Anyway, on this day, having had one-toomany drinks to mention I sat perched next to my friend, singing to my heart’s content a little Whitney Houston number – ‘I Have Nothing’. Said friend thought it’d be a brilliant idea for me to sing this song to a guy who I’d previously had a bit of a crush on. Now, surely a sober person would have spotted a royal stitch up a mile off, however, being a million miles off sober (this only takes about two sips of wine!)… I didn’t. Assuring me that he’d stick nearby while I belted out my serenade of Whitney Houston’s classic we wandered over to Mr… Mr No Name. As I reached the second verse and inhaled for the high notes, Mr No Name turned to me and uttered something. I leant in closer as I waited in anticipation for those sweet, sweet words that I’d so longed to hear…
‘Humpty Dumpty’. In short, I had egg on my face. To try and give some credit to my story that this serenade was all part of a genuine dare, I scoured the room for my friend (although more of a ‘fiend’ at this moment) who’d made me my own worst enemy. He was nowhere to be seen and had cut all ties five minutes before… in fact he’d cut all ties on the second line of the song (after taking photographic evidence!) and legged it. I soon realised the search was hopeless, just like my accidental serenade. Wait a minute, all was not lost! I spotted the Cheshire cat in the corner grinning from ear to ear, whilst hiding out of my view. What a joke! I was once told that you learn by your mistakes, which means you shouldn’t make the same mistake twice. This did occur to me, however I thought - “this rule surely does not apply if both crimes are committed on the same night?” So… in true drunken fashion, to prove that I indeed sing to everyone and it’s nothing out of the norm, I had to perform once again and found a more willing (only through being polite) audience in the guise of Mr No Name’s family! Funny how the unthinkable seems normal when under the influence. Note to self: Do not drink! Oh dear – “beam me up Scotty.” OK, so this was definitely not Princess behaviour… more Cinderella after midnight. The reason I wasn’t allowed to stay out though, was not because of the ugly sisters (my sister’s pretty hot) locking me up it was because I, on this occasion, could not behave myself. I quickly made my excuses and said my goodbyes as my coach was just about to turn into a pumpkin.
Mr No Name: (in his husky voice) Susan…. Me: Yes… (be still my beating heart!) Mr No Name: Susan… Why are you pretending this is a dare?
The End (until my next disaster…)
Me: GULP… (W**@~*!!!?) I. FELT. SOBER. As I thought back to moments before when I’d swayed on the cusp of fantasy and reality, I realised the only fantasy story this moment was reminiscent of was not ‘Romeo and Juliet’ or ‘Rapunzel’, this was
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Bobbies on the boat It was the ‘blues’ versus the ‘screws’ as off duty Peterborough police officers pitted their paddling skills against HMP Peterborough in the battle of the dragons.
“Because of the types of incidents we sometimes have to deal with people sometimes forget we’re everyday human beings with families and enjoy some down time too,” said Inspector Louise Angel. Like most of the teams taking part the off duty officers used this as a family day, chilling out on the Embankment and enjoying a huge barbecue to build up their strength in between races (what no donuts?!). Louise added - “This was a great community day and an opportunity for officers to enjoy some down time with their own families as well as getting the chance to interact with the public and show we are capable of having fun!”
Peterborough police took part in the eleventh annual Dragon Boat Festival for the first time on a glorious sunny day on the Embankment. Having entered for the fun of it, things soon turned a little competitive when the ‘Bobbies on the Boat’ team realised they actually stood a strong chance of doing well!
road blocks, breathalyser tests… but in the end just decided to use our paddling prowess!”
Their big rivals on the day were the crew from the prison - ‘Screw Loose’.
Although Peterborough Rugby Club went on to take the title, the police team certainly showed they’ve got what it takes for future events. They walked away with the mixed champions’ trophy as they were the fastest mixed group of the day and came fifth overall out of 33 teams.
“We couldn’t pass up the challenge of trying to beat the prison,” said Michelle Neale, the drummer on the team, “and we did - by miles! A little gloating was in order after that… that was definitely the best bit!”
"We were thoroughly pleased with how the whole day went,” added Michelle “everyone had a good time from start to finish, and to come away with a trophy and medals was just the icing on the cake!”
Inspector Louise Angel was equally determined to mobilise ‘operation dragon’! “We started off not knowing how we’d do and were just in it for a bit of a laugh, but after coming second in the very first race we realised we were quite good and became really competitive. We did have a few tactics planned...
Over 600 people took to the water in the event sponsored by Crightons of Peterborough, with dozens of local companies and groups racing against each other in brightly painted Chinese dragon boats, watched by several thousand spectators.
0345 456 456 4 www.cambs.police.uk
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It was all for a good cause too as the festival’s nominated charity, Peterborough SportsAid Foundation, was just one of many to benefit from sponsorship raised by the crews. “Considering none of us have ever done this before I think it's safe to say we're all hooked now, and we'll definitely be entering next year,” said Michelle. “The Rugby boys need to watch out... Bobbies on the Boat are about!"
Caught in th SUMMER @ CHARTERS Our Paparazzi crew took the opportunity to enjoy some of the good weather recently and went out an about to check out the daytime action. When it’s hot in the city where are you gonna go? Charters beer garden of course. It’s the largest in the city centre in a fantastic location on the river and of course has loads of great real ales on offer. Since the guys landscaped the gardens and added a covered seating area it’s the only place to be on a sunny day, so Pep Cipriano and Mike Harris knew just where to head for pictures of a great crowd and a decent pint. Music and real ale fans already know it’s a great pub, but plenty of Posh fans are finding it’s an ideal venue to meet up at before a match or to celebrate a win. Fingers crossed there’ll be plenty more sunny days as the guys at Charters are planning to host a number of Summer Sunday events with live music on Sunday afternoons throughout the summer, see website details www.oakhamales.com If you fancy holding a BBQ down at the pub for a big party, celebration or works do with a difference Charters could be the perfect location, just give Lorraine a call on 01733 315766. That’s all on top of their regular live nights and the beer festivals that they’re famous for. Look out for a new lunchtime sandwich bar initially operating from Thursday - Saturday but the intention is to make it a daily option, for those who don’t have time to eat from the hot lunch menu. We’ll be back at Charters for the Randall Rootz free music festival on August 15 & 16 which will see a diverse range of bands playing to help raise cash for Sue Ryder Care. Charters is the perfect place to eat, meet and drink so here’s to a long hot summer lounging in the beer garden!
VIEW PAPARAZZI ONLINE Remember all our Paparazzi photos, even those that we just can’t squeeze into the mag, go up on our fantastic new website www.espmag.co.uk so you can see who’s been caught in the act of having a great time! If it was you and you’d like to savour the flavour of that night, you can buy images to keep.
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Rugby Club Beer Fest A mix of sunshine, music, beer and rugby brought hundreds of people out to the fourth annual Peterborough Rugby Club Beer Festival and pep Cipriano was on Paparazzi duties capture the action for ESP. With ales from across the country on offer, as well as live music from Citizen Smith, Retrolux and The Mighty Quinn, most of the real ale drinkers popping in for a quick pint or two went home in a good mood. Local breweries Oakham Ales, Digfield Ales, Tydd Steam and Ufford Ales were well represented amongst the 52 real ales on display. Presenters from Lite FM, Keith Dalton and Greg Nunney, were on hand to open the festival to a packed crowd of eager drinkers. There were also two rugby matches for the crowd to enjoy as they downed their favourite tipple. The headline match was an RFU County Championship Plate fixture between East Midlands and Staffordshire, followed by the Peterborough third team playing a team of touring Bournemouth chiropractors. Seven of the Peterborough squad featured in the county match which ended in a 24-10 win for East Midlands. Nigel Cook, general manager, told ESP the festival was gaining in popularity every year - "This has certainly been the best festival ever with loads of people coming through the gates on both days. "It was perfect weather for drinking beer and watching rugby – I can’t think of a better weekend at the club.” The thriving rugby club, located at Fortress Fengate, continued the weekend’s celebrations with their President's Day on Sunday, with a number of teams playing matches followed by a disco in the evening and a chance to finish any of the remaining real ales. In fact, the Peterborough CAMRA Real Ale Festival, which takes place on the Embankment at the end of August, originated at the rugby club 31 years ago.
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The Events field this summer Irish & Country Music Weekend July 10 Sean Wilson & Tony Mac from 6pm Admission - adults £5, Children £3, under 10’s FREE July 11 Kenny Paul – Telstar – TR Dallas - Tony Garney – The Tom Healy Band – Shebeen Folk Band – O’Hare & Chambers – Cairde Ceile Band – Susan McCann & her Band. July 12 Blake & Brazil plus Declan Gaynor Admission - Adults £10 advance, £12 on gate. Children (10 to 15 yrs) £7 after 6pm, £6 on gate. Children (10 to 15 yrs) £3. Advance weekend ticket - £18. Gates open 11am
Organic Sounds All Day Dance Festival Sat July 18 - 11am ‘til 1am Admission £5 all day
Livestock 2009 Sat July 25 • Untamed • Pet Slimmers of the Year • Point Seven Pistol • Cameltoe • D.G.A.S • More to be announced Admission FREE - camping available
First Afro-Carribean Summer Festival Sat August 1 - 12noon ‘til late • Steel band – Phase 5 • Reggae band – Blue Print • Soukouss Dancing Queens • DJ Parliament Paul Event tickets - £10 adults, under 14s FREE
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ESPCELEBS
ciara Interview
Whether she’s smooching with Justin Timberlake or breaking up with Enrique Iglesias, Ciara is definitely enjoying a real ‘Fantasy Ride’ in her videos at the moment. ESP catches up with the girl who’s about to go to ‘Work’ with her new single… Ciara could be the envy of much of the female population (and the object of desire for most of the fellas) after her sexy collaborations with two of the music world’s hottest males! She’s been in the charts with both Enrique, having a passionate break up in the video for his song ‘Takin’ Back My Love’ and then turned on the sex appeal big style with JT in the video for her track ‘Love Sex Magic’. If anyone was in any doubt this girl is in great shape just watch this video. Phew! We suspect writhing around with Mr Timberlake was not the hardest day’s work she’s ever done… “It was a lot of fun,” admits Ciara. “Justin is such a sweet person. The energy was crazy. The actual idea of the video is amazing to me. I’m basically giving you my interpretation, or my own ‘Love Sex Magic’ show. It’s a lot of fun, something different for me and him. I also like the collaboration between us too, because it’s a bit unexpected. You wouldn’t expect for us to be doing a song together. There’s some hot choreography going on in this one but Ciara says she embraced the opportunity to do something very different. “It was different challenges for me and I had to get in touch with my more sensual side, which was really cool. There were fun exercises that we did to actually get there, to pull it out. It’s still a sprinkle of my core elements of what makes me as a dancer, what you’ve seen, but to a whole other level, in my eyes. Just some different stuff going on, really fun!” Ciara has just toured with Britney gaining some great exposure for her latest album ‘Fantasy Ride’. But it’s been a couple of years since the last album, ‘Evolution’, so what’s she been up to during that time? Apparently, some self discovery. “I’ve been spending my time doing so much thinking; creative thinking,” Ciara explains. “I’m trying to get a feel of who I’m becoming, spending time learning about myself as a young woman and working out a little bit. A little bit of everything, everything that is helping me for my steps moving forward. I’m just going through a whole therapeutic process, or something like that.
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“My album ‘Fantasy Ride’ is my third album and I’m excited about being able to be at this point. It’s about me taking my fans on a ‘Fantasy Ride’ through music. With that being said, I’m going to show them many different sides to me that they have yet to see. Most importantly, things they have yet to hear from me. I felt like I should be able to do anything and this record really allowed me to do that. It allowed me to touch on a lot of points that I haven’t yet.” With enviable good looks, a figure to die for and everything seemingly going her way at the moment and a new single out this month, we’re curious to know how she finds the time to keep in such great physical shape? “Dancing plays a big part of it. When I’m really focused, I like to train five days out of the week, one hour. The most important thing is food, or how I eat. When people work out they think – ‘If I’m in the gym working up a sweat for two hours, I’m going to loose weight’, but the reality is how you eat. Really 85% of it is what you eat and the other 15% is about the workout. So for me, it’s cutting down some of the fun-fun eating. For example, I won’t eat as much of the ice cream and stuff like that as I normally do. I’ll cut down on some of the dairy and all these things that are kind of fattening. The things that mess you up a little bit, or mess up your metabolism. It’s a combination of all that.” When you look this good, it’s no surprise Ciara has a few other aspirations beyond the music industry. “I always believe the sky’s the limit,” she says in confident form. “With that being said, I’m always striving to do everything. Every talent that God has blessed me with I’m going to use it. I want to do tons and tons of modeling. I’ve been starting to do a little bit; lots of different, creative, cool photo shoots, which has been kind of fun. Acting, I definitely want to do a lot more in acting. I’m kind of working on little things here and there, like auditions and all that fun stuff.” Ciara’s new single ‘Work’ is released on July 27 and we reckon you’ll be seeing plenty more of this young lady… but for her many fans that won’t be a bad thing! www.ciaraworld.com
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• Parties a speciality • Birthdays, hen parties, company functions, family gatherings • Private dining room if required • Outside patio for al fresco dining, overlooking the Meadows
1-2 Castle Street, Stamford, Linc’s, PE9 2RA Tel: 01780 762739
NEW FLAMÁS RESTAURANT LOOKING HOT IN HAMPTON Face of ESP Claire Smith joined the ESP team at the opening of the new Flamás South American Flame & Grill in Hampton Vale recently and rubbed shoulders with the likes of local TV star Luke Pasqualino from Skins. Everyone was keen to see this great new addition to the local restaurant scene and we have to say the design is fabulous. From the music to the décor these guys have created an 80 seat eaterie with real potential. If the tasty nibbles on the night are anything to go by this should be a great place to dine. Starters go up to £6.95, mains up to £13.95 and cocktails are also a good price at £3.95. Lunchtime it’s £5.95 for a main course or £7.95 for two courses with dishes including fish tacos, chicken criolla, wasabi-crusted tuna and chargrilled fajita to the Flamas burger. Spokesman Ahsam Afzal told ESP – “This area is growing and has lots of potential. This is a long term investment for us. “We cook everything fresh, even our nachos, and our burgers are all handmade. Our chef is South American and has worked in Miami and London so you can be confident he knows these dishes well and we will regularly refresh the menu.” We’ll be back soon to let you know whether this restaurant is as hot as it looks! Tel: 01733 241246
GOOD OLD TRADITIONAL PUB GRUB @ EBENEEZERS Ebeneezers already has a strong reputation for live music and events but this club on Grove Street in Woodston is now offering different food options too. Whether you just fancy some good old traditional pub grub or want a late night snack that isn’t from the corner take-away, John and his team hope they have the answer. The place is down to earth, so you don’t need to get your tux out to eat there, and they aim to provide affordable, good quality food. You’ll find a warm friendly atmosphere that helps you to relax after a hard day’s work… especially with one of their great beers! After being there for years John has now
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decided it’s time to open his doors to non members for food, but you still get the discount if you’re a member when there are bands on. Ebeneezers is open seven days a week for bar snacks starting at only £3.50 with things like burger and chips or sausage, egg and chips along with restaurant food such as steak and ale pie and half roast chicken from £4.95 for two courses. They also do an all day breakfast. Food is served Monday to Friday with lunch from 11am - 2pm and evening meals available from 5pm – 8pm. Saturday they offer lunch from 11am – 3pm and
evening meals from 10pm ‘til late so you can get your food on the way back home and eat in comfort, while enjoying the live music instead of a take-away on the pavement! On Sundays they offer a traditional lunch from 12pm – 4pm at just £5.95 for a main course and £7.95 for two courses. Bargain! Don’t forget that this venue is a great place for parties and weddings and on most Saturday nights there’s live music. It’s best to ring and book to avoid disappointment, so call 01733 567352.
food@espmag.co.uk
LOCALFOOD NEW CHAPEL BAR RESTAURANT IN OUNDLE This could be the most romantic spot in Oundle with a gorgeous choccie shop, lovely lingerie boutique and now a great new restaurant all under one roof! It’s always good to hear about new restaurants opening up and Oundle has recently seen the Chapel Bar & Dining Room throw open its doors inside The Bazaar on West Street, also home to ‘Palmer’s Chocolate’ shop and lingerie boutique ‘Eve.’ It’s housed in a former nineteenth century Wesleyan Methodist chapel so it has bags of character and is the final stage in the building’s refurbishment. Chef, Haydn Laidlow, describes the menu as - “Modern British food with a Mediterranean twist. Simple, honest food where the quality of the ingredients speaks for itself.” All the ingredients are sourced locally where possible with the meat coming from Seven Wells Butchers in Oundle. The lunchtime menu ranges from sandwiches, soups and salads to larger meals such as the Chapel Hamburger, making it the perfect place to meet with friends for lunch. There’s also a great selection of homemade cakes, muffins and biscuits if you just want to grab a coffee with friends. The evening menu offers more tantalising choices such as beef bresola, foie gras and parmesan risotto with asparagus to start; and rump of lamb, rib-eye steak and potato gnocchi with basil pesto to name but a few of the mains on offer. If you just love desserts these include lemon curd and raspberry cheesecake, warm dark chocolate fondant and a fantastic cheese selection. On Sundays there’s a selection of roasts available and there is a special lunch offer, which is two courses for £16.50 or three courses for £21.50. Tel: 01832 274730
• • • •
Dry Cleaning, repairs and alterations to the highest standards Member of The Guild of Cleaners & Launderers Over 40 years of combined experience Open Mon – Fri 8.30am to 6pm, Sat 9am to 3pm
Opening Hours Tues Wed – Sat Sunday
5.30pm – Late 12pm – 2pm & 5.30pm – Late 12pm – 5pm
Please book to avoid disappointment
Embankment Road, Peterborough
Tel 01733 894952
‘A dining experience with a difference’ • Lunchtime Tuesday to Friday – 12pm to 2pm (2 course option) • Evening Dinner Tuesday to Saturday - 7.00pm to 10.30pm 3 courses includes coffee & mints £24.95 • 3 course Sunday lunch, includes coffee + mints £18.50 Bookings essential
43 Broadway, Peterborough, PE1 1SQ (next to Bombay Brasserie)
The Cherry House Restaurant
TEL: 01733 566777
125 Church Street,Werrington, Peterborough 01733 571721
SELECT APPOINTMENTS 26 Priestgate Peterborough PE1 1WG Tel: 01733 865070 www.select.co.uk
SELECT KNOW CLAIRE IS THE RIGHT GIRL FOR THE JOB When we’re choosing our new Face of ESP we need a keen eye and ability to spot the right girl for the job, so who better to help than Select Appointments who’ve been doing just that for the last 25 years!
is their strong point. They aim to live by their slogan of ‘jobs for people – people for jobs.’ The company was set up in 1980 and is part of a national franchise with the Peterborough offices based in Priestgate. Donna Stafford is the owner and franchise director while Karen Hutchison is the temporaries consultant and Sandy Harris handles the permanent positions.
Select Appointments came on board as a sponsor for the Face of ESP and MD Donna Stafford was one of our judges in the first part of the competition. Donna identified winner Claire Smith as a contender from the start. “I thoroughly enjoyed the competition and the judging process on the night. Claire immediately stood out with a fantastic, bubbly personality. When she came into our offices recently to collect her £500 prize she was an absolute delight.” Claire has received over £5,000 in prizes for winning the title and becoming an ambassador for ESP Magazine and she has put this particular prize from Select to very good use. “I was completely gob smacked when I heard that Select had offered me £500 in cash. I’d just
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booked a once in a lifetime holiday with all of my best friends scuba diving in Croatia and was in complete panic mode about my finances, even to the extent I nearly had to pull out at the last minute! Select's wonderful gift allowed me to go and gave me an experience I will never forget. Thank you!” The dictionary definition of ‘Select’ is ‘chosen for excellence’ and that’s just what this Peterborough company live by. Selecting the right candidates for permanent and temporary positions as well as choosing the right company for their candidates
“We believe that candidate care and client care go hand in hand,” explains Karen. “We aim to supply clients with well trained, top quality, highly motivated candidates – a formula we’ve been using for over 25 years working in the private and public sector. “We provide a friendly, approachable service and would encourage small and medium sized businesses to get in touch for all their needs. The personal approach of our consultants and outstanding customer service is what sets us apart. It certainly looks like we did a good job for ESP as well in helping to choose Claire as the Face of ESP!”
WE’RE GOING TO THE DOGS If you fancy a little trackside action and a few bets to get your pulse racing you need to try a night out at the Greyhound Stadium in Peterborough – it’s the dogs danglies! We’re always on the look out for some serious social action so we’ve joined forces with the stadium to give you a top night out that could see you quids in. The Raceview Grandstand at Peterborough now has a capacity of over 1,000 seats for customers at tables, all with a view of the racing circuit and easy access to the indoor Totes, making Peterborough one of the top five tracks in the country. If you decide to make even more of a night of it and book into the restaurant for a meal (pre-book and pre-paid on 01733 296939), the great thing is that while you chill out and enjoy the food and a few bevies, state of the art technology means messengers carrying mini Tote machines come to you to take your bets. They’re then transmitted instantly to the central Tote system by radio link and your ticket’s printed for you at the table. Winnings are also paid out on the spot. Result! If you’re in business and want to give your staff a night out or impress your clients you can also book one of two separate areas for corporate entertaining.
FREE ENTRY AND A MEAL FOR A PENNY Go to the dogs and eat at the Rumblin’ Tum fast food
servery for just 1p. You get admission to the grandstand (usually £5), and choose any burger, jacket potato (various fillings), hot dog, chicken nuggets (6 piece), scampi (6 piece), veggie nuggets (6 piece). All with chips or salad. Total cost: One penny (subject to availability).
There are loads of free car parking spaces too, so grab your mates and get clicking or texting and have a night out and a meal on us and Peterborough Greyhound Stadium. You’ll find the stadium at Fengate - to find out more visit www.peterboroughgreyhounds.com or call 01733 296939.
The ESP Reader Offer is only available with a voucher and is valid for any Wednesday or Friday up to and including Friday August 28, 2009. Programmes available - £1. To receive your voucher for the single admission and meal offer, just text us the word ‘dogs’ along with your NAME and EMAIL address on the number shown, or email offers@espmag.co.uk to receive your voucher along with your NAME and PHONE NUMBER. Alternatively log onto www.espmag.co.uk and click on the Greyhound Stadium logo on the home page to print out your own voucher.
TEXT HOTLINE
07762 147679
OR EMAIL: OFFERS@ESPMAG.CO.UK Normal text rates apply
Morris Dancers
Wednesday 8th July
Morris Dancers in car park from 8pm barbecue food available from £3.50 (normal menu also available).
Curry Night
Wednesday 15th July
Our ever popular curry night - book quickly, eat as much as you like for £10.
Two-Course Fixed Price Menu Now always available alongside our A la Carte menu and bar menu is our 2 course fixed price menu for only £13.50.
THE KINGS HEAD, APETHORPE. TEL: 01780 470627
Lordy Lordy, ‘Here Come the Boys’ has stepped ‘up a’ class! Girls you may look at this picture and think ‘Oh my Lord!’ and you’d be right. He is – a Lord! Little did we realise we have Lord Robert Walters living in Peterborough, Eye to be precise and if you want to become a groupie… We might be introducing you to 26 year-old Rob for the first time but you’re going to be seeing much more of him… in fact several thousand women already have as he’s currently touring with the male dance show ‘Here Come the Boys’. But that’s not all. In a few months’ time you’ll catch him in Matt Damon’s new movie ‘Green Zone’, not in the credits as ‘third dead bloke from the left’ but with actual lines no less! Not bad going really for a male model with just a few small roles and a bit of TV presenting on his CV prior to this.
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So why haven’t we heard of Lord Rob in the Boro before? Well, his modelling has mainly seen him based in London but he bought a house here a few years ago. He has some friends in the city, but despite what you’d expect he’s actually a pretty private guy. You won’t see him falling out of Baccara drunk on a Saturday – as much as some girls might like to!
“Neither would I! The truth is I’m a very goal orientated person and always looking for a new challenge. The night shoots filming in Morocco really took it out of me, so when I came back to England I decided I needed to do something different for a while. Then strangely enough I got a call from my manager saying we’ve got something you may be interested in.
So when confronted with a young guy in good shape, who models in his boxers, now stars in a flirty male dance show and who also happens to have an upper class title you’d expect an arrogant toff with a bit of an attitude, right? Not so. Rob is definitely confident but certainly not full of himself. When I suggest I wouldn’t immediately cast him in this type of show he laughs and wholeheartedly agrees.
“The choreographer Cris Judd worked with Justin Timberlake, Usher and Britney Spears so I thought OK, if he’s involved it’s got to be an opportunity and going to be done very professionally.” Despite never dancing before and being put through his paces by Cris the hard work is paying off. Would any bloke not get the buzz of a lifetime walking out on stage in front of 500 women screaming their hearts out?!
“I love performing and entertaining and to be completely honest the best part of this job is the reaction we get from the audience,” admits Rob. “All the hours of rehearsals, hours of dancing and hours in the studio makes it all worth it when you come on stage and you hear that big roar. You can’t top that. “Although it’s not a new idea, the way we’re doing it kind of is. It’s a mixture of sexy, flirty but it’s also a proper, proper dance show. We’ve got live singers singing the songs and it’s a real spectacular, a very entertaining evening out. It’s not by any stretch of the imagination a strip show because that would be easy!” Rob grew up in North West London where he went to school, college and then drama school and was keen to get out there and perform. He’s since racked up modelling jobs for the top magazines, catalogues and ad campaigns (you’ve probably seen him modelling Next undies!) appeared in TV ads and had small roles in various shows. “The biggest high for me since going into this has been getting a front cover for Men’s Fitness,” he confesses, “because I’ve always read it and getting a front cover was just an honour, it’s something every model strives to get.” But surely when your father’s a Lord and not short of a penny or two (he had his own plane) he’s had a ‘lord of the manor’ style upbringing that means he hasn’t had to try too hard? “I definitely wasn’t brought up with a silver spoon – I think I had a lot of perks growing up which many children didn’t have at the time but I had a very normal childhood. I wasn’t spoilt. I was never the kid that got the latest Nintendo. I had to earn it through getting good grades at school and doing well in sport.” The movie with Matt Damon is definitely a major step forward in his plans for an acting career. In ‘Green Zone’, Rob plays a member of the tactical forces unit during the first Gulf War in Iraq. He admits he was a little apprehensive about working with such a big star but found him a likeable, every day guy. “Matt is as down to earth as you can find, he’s completely easy going with a great work ethic.” What a contrast a movie set must be to dancing on stage at the O2 with his shirt off! “That’s the beauty of my job, that everything I do is so different. I get bored very quickly so I have to have a lot of things going to keep me entertained.” We could soon lose Rob to LA, particularly if his acting career takes off so I wonder what will keep him down to earth. “My family and my friends – definitely. I think when you’re going into the entertainment world, whatever it is, modelling, acting, presenting I think a lot of people can get swept up into a kind of power trip and to be honest I’ve always looked at what I do as a really fun job, but it’s still a job.”
Half price
Hot Towel Shave with every full price haircut • • • • • • •
Cambridge Diet consultant Gel/Acrylic and Pink ‘n’ White Nails Hair Up Racoon Extensions Full Beauty Treatments Late night Thursday and Friday ‘til 8pm Free Parking
438 Oundle Road, Peterborough PE2 9PA The ‘Here Come the Boys’ tour ends on July 20, for dates visit www.herecometheboys.com Sharon McAllister
Tel: 01733 394041
Class of 2009 is pretty classy
What a gorgeous new model… and we’re not just talking about Claire Smith our Face of ESP and the striking Posh players! Drool over the new Mercedes E-Class just like we did at the launch in Peterborough. The striking new line-up of E-Class models was launched in style with a fashion show featuring the equally stunning Vivienne Westwood designs from Boheme in Wansford plus Jaeger suits. Claire joined girls from Robinsons Mercedes on the red carpet along with Posh players Russell Martin, George Boyd and Shaun Batt. If you’ve liked Mercedes but have been tempted to defect over to the likes of Audi, BMW or Jaguar, this is the model they hope will woo you back to the Mercedes fold.
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Boasting elegant design, advanced comfort features and numerous Assist systems, this is certainly in a class of its own combining safety and comfort. Everyone was particularly keen to slide into the gorgeous red coupé. Both this one and the saloon model have a variety of accessories available for you to personalise to your choice. Always famed for its safety features, Mercedes has equipped the new E-Class with nine airbags and even boasts a drowsiness detection system plus the comfort factor has also taken a big step up. Good news for company car owners – new EClass models are up to eight tax bands lower. Good news for everyone – fuel consumption’s been slashed by over 20% and despite improved performance the CO2 emissions have actually gone down considerably. www.mercedes-benz.co.uk
Mecedes-Benz Cygnet Park, Phorpres Way, Hampton Tel: 01733 294900
SUPERBIKE FANS GET THE (MOTOR)POINT Over 100 people attended an evening with the Motorpoint Yamaha British Superbikes team recently, keen to get up close and personal with the stars.
Fans’ favourite Chris ‘Stalker’ Walker headlined the evening together with British Superbike rider and former Spanish Supersport Champion - Graeme Gowland. The pair ride the cool all-new Yamaha YZF R1 Superbike which was on display and were accompanied by team manager Rob McElnea.
Photo: Terry Harris
Bike enthusiasts from across East Anglia packed the company’s showroom in Peterborough to meet the riders ahead of the British Superbike race at Snetterton.
Jean-Paul Russek, general manager of Motorpoint Peterborough told ESP - “We’re extremely pleased that so many people took time out to join us. Everyone had a thoroughly enjoyable evening, especially the riders, who were delighted to receive so much support ahead of Snetterton.” Motorpoint have also recently signed up to give some local sports stars valuable support. They’ve agreed further sponsorship of the treble-winning Peterborough Phantoms ice hockey team.
Established in 1998, Motorpoint first linked up as sponsors of the Phantoms for the 2007/2008 hockey season. Phantoms Director Jon Kynaston told ESP “We’re really delighted to be working once again with such a successful and established company as Motorpoint. It’s a very strong relationship - one that we have grown over the last two years and we’re very much looking forward to another great year working together.”
PERFECT TEN … S
Aston Merrygold
POP STAR
We’ve not had a famous singer/pop star to get excited about since Andy Bell from Erasure and a new generation of music fans from the city have eagerly embraced this new sensation. Aston Merrygold secured his place in our ‘Perfect Ten’ series some time ago, but as he prepares to hit the charts, now is just the right month to get up close and personal with our city’s young star. The former Jack Hunt School boy has been involved in singing, TV and showbiz for years but the last few months have seen him and his JLS band mates propelled into the limelight big style. Now with a record deal with Epic, a raft of TV appearances and magazine features under their belt and the X Factor tour behind them it’s time for their biggest moment - the release of their debut single ‘Beat Again’ on July 13. Aston has made a hometown return with concerts at Club Metro, now he’s gearing up for another onslaught of city fans eager to see him up close when he and the band come to HMV in Queensgate for a signing session on July 14. Summer 2009 is going to be like no other for Aston or his family in Peterborough. JLS (Aston, JB, Marvin and Oritse) are launching their assault on the charts and music industry commentators reckon they have all the ingredients to go all the way. Since winning over the nation and building an army of loyal fans on The X Factor last year Aston and JLS have not stopped. The year kicked off on a high when they signed a deal with legendary music label Epic. Since then the boys have been touring the UK and working night and day on their debut album. The dream, it seems, is finally becoming reality. “You know what now I’m ready for it,” says Aston. “This is it now, time for the real stuff, we’re out of the X Factor bubble and this is the proper start of our career. We’ll just have to see what happens. I’d love a number one. To get a number one would be a dream come true!” Now as Aston and JLS prepare to stand on their own, the rollercoaster they’ve been on will certainly not slow down. There are a whole load of fresh challenges ahead for this young guy. “Rollercoaster’s an understatement really,” says Aston. “One of the big challenges is just maintaining it all really. Keeping myself healthy and happy all the time. You know even though it’s my dream job I’m sure I’ll still go through some bad times and have to keep putting a smile on my face. Keeping focus is the thing I guess and keeping us all tight as a group.” Life will never be quite the same for Aston, but of course his family here in Peterborough have also become a focus of attention so is that causing any problems?
SUCCESS STORIES “My family always knew what type of work I was getting into and how that would affect their life. Both my little brothers love it and all the attention at school. When I come home I walk through the door and it’s just normal again, it’s when I want to go out and just catch up with friends. I know I won’t be able to do the things I’ve grown up doing anymore. I’ve been out to The Boathouse a couple of times and it’s just got a bit crazy. You have to get used to the fact that every single week it’s getting harder to just walk around.” Aston is part of a new bunch of young guns from the city like Luke Pasqualino from Skins and Olympic gymnast Louis Smith who are all doing well. Aston knows the guys and is proud to be playing his part in putting his home town on the map. “To see everyone doing so well, that’s very, very satisfying. People used to ask, ‘where are you from?’ and I’d say ‘Peterborough’ and they’d say ‘where’s that?’ Now that’s not said as much. We’re getting the name around with Luke in TV, Louis in sport and me in the music industry.” Aston’s an inspiration to many people so after six years of trying what’s been the secret of his success? “It’s not a secret. It’s just about hard work and persistence. Fair enough I’ve been in the right place at the right time, but I’ve been in the wrong place at the wrong time too. My friends know the struggles I’ve had, having to move to London and struggling to pay the rent. There were times when I felt like giving up. “You have to just keep saying to yourself ‘not this time, but next time’ and picking yourself up. You have to know you’re going to get to the finish line but it’s going to take a long time.” Aston is a big fan of Michael Jackson and performed as him on the children’s version of Stars in the Eyes some years back, so like many he was stunned at the star’s death - “He’s a legend and he’s certainly not going to be forgotten.” Now though it’s Aston’s turn to make his mark on the music industry and ‘Beat Again’ is just the start. Written and produced by Steve Mac and Wayne Hector (previous writing credits read like a who's who in modern pop music) 'Beat Again's’ dark driving beat and soulful infectious lyrics is set to become a massive dance floor anthem this summer. 'Beat Again' is released through Epic Records on Monday July 13. Formats will include a two track CD and download. JLS will release their debut album later this year.
... Next month we catch up with another local success story.
gavin.miller@espmag.co.uk
SCREENSCENE
BRUNO
Released: July 10 Starring: Sacha Baron Cohen Director: Larry Charles
After the massive success of ‘Borat’, British sensation Sacha Baron Cohen brings his third major character to the big-screen with possibly the same amount of controversy.
PUBLIC ENEMIES
The man behind Ali G will reveal gay Austrian model Bruno to the world (arguably the lesser-known of the characters from his TV series) and if his ass-in-theface of Eminem stunt at the MTV Awards is anything to go by, this alter-ego could be just as popular as his Kazakh guise.
ICE AGE 3: DAWN OF THE DINOSAURS
The movie was reportedly trimmed to beat the censors, so expect further antics and tomfoolery not for the squeamish with ‘Borat’ and ‘Curb your Enthusiam’s’ Larry Charles providing expert direction.
HARRY POTTER
& THE HALFBLOOD PRINCE
MOON
THE TAKING OF PELHAM 1 2 3
Out Now
Out Now
Released: July 15
Released: July 17
Released: July 31
Johnny Depp shines as legendary Depression-era bank robber John Dillinger, with top FBI agent Melvin Purvis (Christian Bale) on his tail in this mouthwatering thriller from ‘Heat’ and ‘The Last of the Mohicans’ helmsman Michael Mann.
Brit star Simon Pegg joins the cast for the third movie as a one-eyed dinosaurhunting weasel. He joins regulars Sid, Manny, Diego and acorn-loving Scrat as this summer’s major computer-generated release gets a ‘Jurassic Park’ makeover.
Harry (Daniel Radcliffe) and Dumbledore (Michael Gambon) attempt to unlock the secrets to Voldemort’s defences – with Hogwarts no longer the safe haven it once was – in this sixth instalment of one of the movie world’s biggest-ever franchises.
This little gem from debut director Duncan Jones could just be the indie hit of the summer, as isolated moon worker Sam Rockwell battles insanity after three years on Earth’s satellite with only a Kevin Spacey-voiced robot for company.
John Travolta stars as a criminal mastermind taking on Denzel Washington’s subway guru in this underground train hijacking drama. It’s a remake of the 1974 original from ‘Top Gun’ and ‘Crimson Tide’ director Tony Scott.
All release dates are correct at the time of going to press.
ONLINE REVIEWS: Gran Torino , Notorious , Marley & Me
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www.espmag.co.uk/reviews
Game On INFAMOUS
This is undoubtedly one of the best PS3 exclusives to date.
A cataclysmic blast has punctured this thriving metropolis and it’s up to this new hero (or anti-hero) to assert justice on the violent gangs that rule the streets – with moral dilemmas thrown in for good measure.
The exceptional ease which electricityinfused superhero Cole McGrath bounds effortlessly around this lush Empire City landscape would make Spidey himself feel second rate.
An immersive comic-book style story, exciting side-missions and noteworthy characters complement the competent – if not spectacular – graphics, with the engrossing gameplay making up for a few
RED FACTION: GUERILLA
heaven for people who like to blow things up – in both single-player and multiplayer experiences.
(PS3) Out Now
(X360/PS3/PC) Out Now If you thought ‘Bad Company’s’ destruction engine was amazing then you haven’t seen nothing yet. This Mars-based third-person actioner is
PROTOTYPE (X360/PS3/PC) Out Now I’ve decided to steer clear of the inevitable ‘Prototype’ versus ‘Infamous’ comparisons that have been bandied around because Activision’s new free-roaming slice ‘n’ dicer deserves more credit.
VIRTUA TENNIS (X360/PS3/WII/PC) Out Now With Wimbledon in full swing as the mag hits the shelves, the debate of ‘Virtua Tennis’ vs ‘Top Spin’ will again divide the tennis gaming populace.
As Alec Mason, a member of the Red Faction resistance movement seeking revenge after your brother is killed, your purpose is to liberate zones on the red planet by destroying the oppressive Earth Defence Force.
From the makers of ‘The Hulk: Ultimate Destruction’, it’s extremely hard not to have great fun elbow-dropping tanks and raising bloody-hell as the virally-infected weapon: shape-shifting Alex Mercer. But in that lies the game problem, as the initial amazement diminishes and the samey missions and hectic combat wears thin you actually realise it’s more fun to go
pick-up-and-play style of ‘Virtua’ is up against the more rewarding, but sometimes infuriatingly complex style of the more serious ‘Spin’. I can’t sit on the fence in the fun department, because this title wins it hands down with the straightforward style and impressive roster (Murray, Nadal and
The more simplistic and colourful easy-to-
THE SIMS 3 (PC) Out Now It’s time to play God again, as EA builds on the success of the first two games with welcomed improvements that will appeal to fans and newcomers alike.
FALLOUT 3
GAME ADD-ON PACK: THE PITT & OPERATION: ANCHORAGE (X360) Released: July 3 There’s not enough space that can give justice to my ‘Game of the Year’ for 2008 –
The same essential familiarity is all there and counted, but this latest instalment opens up the experience with a vast town coupled with an impressive number of options to make your sim thrive. It won’t bowl you over with the graphics and occasional AI glitches rear their ugly head,
and these differing expansions help extend the sensational experience past the postapocalyptic Capital Wasteland. ‘The Pitt’ – an exploration-based adventure in which you have to liberate the enslaved people of Pittsburgh and ‘Operation: Anchorage’ – a combat-based Alaska snow-themed simulator adventure – have already been released via downloadable content on Xbox Live, but now come in a
ONLI REVIENE WS For the la game test movie, D review s from VD and ESP, vi www.e sit: spmag .co.uk /review s
slight glitches and frame-rate issues. Developer Sucker Punch won’t win awards for originality, but they take top marks for ingenuity, and if they iron-out minor problems for the sequel they could well become infamous.
The competent graphics and explosive setpieces at your disposal easily counteract weak characters, a bland story and repetition problems – but for fans of the sub-genre this is undoubtedly one of the best of its ilk. Smashing your enemy has never been so much fun.
and do your own thing than stick to the story. Fortunately Mercer’s powers and absorption abilities offer enough variety across his Manhattan playground to make this prototype one cool experience that's well worth checking out.
Federer are all included) making it a great game to play with mates. Unfortunately a dodgy create-your-player interface and a jerky online experience doesn’t really take the franchise forward in terms of innovation – but as tennis games go, it’s still one of the best on court
but the overall polish, design and game mechanics is a positive evolution for the franchise despite still room for minor improvements. If you’re into the kind of thing this is gaming entertainment at its finest.
handy disc pack if you don’t have access to it. Simply click on www.espmag.co.uk/reviews for the full lowdown on these two versions along with the recently released ‘Broken Steel’ DLC – as the next ‘Fallout 3’ fan-essential instalment ‘Point Lookout’ readies for action
Thanks to Ian Hilling and Paul Ryan for helping playtest some of this month’s titles.
ONLINE REVIEWS: Indiana Jones and the Staff of Kings (WII) , Broken Steel (X360) , Bejeweled 2 (PS3)
www.espmag.co.uk ( July )
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Steve Gonzalez
steve.gonzalez@espmag.co.uk
The page that's STILL waiting for the Jade Goody memorial fountain to open in Cathedral Square. Why's it taking so long?
SOUTH PARK'S BOYLE BASHING
THE COMEDY APPRENTICE Following the ratings success of 'The Apprentice' with Sir Alan Sugar... (or Big Grey Al as I like to call him), it was only a matter of time before they launched a spin-off series. Next year there's going be a 'Junior Apprentice' for 16-17 year-olds, but the spin-off show I'd really like to see is one where another famous 'Alan' tries to find someone to work for him. I can just imagine the familiar voiceover at the start of the programme "Fourteen people have come to Norwich for a chance to work for Peartree Productions, the TV production company run by Sir Alan Partridge, Britain's best loved TV and Radio presenter. To get the job they must live and work together sideby-side... in the Linton Travel Tavern." Instead of having Nick and Margaret as his assistants, Partridge could have his putupon PA Lynne and his Geordie friend Michael. It'd be fantastic to hear Steve Coogan in character saying things like... "This is a 12 week job interview from hell. There's no phone a friend, you can't text a number and there's no panel of judges... well except for me, because ultimately I'm the one who decides who gets a-fired and I'm the one who decides who gets AHIIIRED!” (I promise you that sentence is far funnier if you imagine Partridge saying it.)
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If you've not been watching the latest series of 'South Park' on Comedy Central (Sky channel 126) then you’ve missed some superb satirical swipes at topical news stories. The best for me was how they managed to combine Somalian pirates with Susan Boyle and her rapid/vapid worldwide fame courtesy of YouTube. In the episode entitled 'Fat Beard' - 'Captain' Cartman starts a pirate club and persuades Butters and Ike to run away to Somalia. Ike leaves a letter which brother Kyle finds and reads that says... "Everyone at school is a f***ing idiot and if one more person talked to me about that Susan Boyle performance of Les Miserables I was going to puke my balls out through my mouth."
JACKO'S POOL PARTY During the recent MP expenses row it was reported that Peterborough MP Stewart Jackson claimed for repairs to his swimming pool. Despite paying the money back and issuing an explanation to clarify the situation a lot of local people are still very upset about it, with some protesters even trying to make use of his pool recently but being fended off by the police. However I think there's a simple way for him to win back voters’ trust... all he's got to do is voluntarily throw a massive pool party around his house over the summer for every council tax payer in the city...with free food and drink. No one's going to complain about that are they? (I'm not sure if Stewpot reads ESP, but I'm sure someone who knows him does, so please pass my suggestion on... but don't tell him that I intend to 'cannonball-bomb' him 'Ron Burgundy style' in his swimming pool otherwise he might not invite me).
Pauline McLynn (Mrs Doyle from Father Ted) will be doing a talk and signing copies of her latest novel at the John Clare Theatre on Broadway at 1pm on July 15.
The Towngate Inn
The book's called 'Missing You Already' and is by all accounts a cracking read. If you've not read any of her books before and are looking for a good comic novel packed full of infectious humour this is definitely one to go for, either for yourself or as a gift. Tickets are £3 (£2 concessions) available from Waterstones on bridge Street or Central Library on Broadway.
MOSTLY ANNOYING I see that Norwich Union/Aviva/whatever-they're-called-this-month have got a new advert on TV which makes even less sense than the last one. A couple of months ago Ringo Starr was banging on about how changing his name to 'Ringo' was the best thing he ever did, and now in the new one he's walking through an airport saying - "Don't call me by my stage name." Oh, make your mind up you touchy old sod, which is it? Then a collection of 'ordinary customers' appear saying things like... "I am not a customer reference number," "Don't clutter your language with corporate jargon," "I am not a target market,” and "Don't treat me like an idiot." Then the voiceover decides to do just that by using corporate jargon to patronise us with the insincere message of - "This is not business as usual, this is a company being built around you." Oh is it? Is it really?! Well it's certainly not being built around me or anyone I know. When my car insurance was due for renewal last month and I shopped around getting quotes, guess who’s was the most expensive? Yeah that's right Ringo Insurance.
STANDOUTSTANDUP Great news that Jimmy Carr is performing not one but two shows in one night at the Cresset, but don’t hang around or you’ll still lose out! You can’t miss Jimmy on telly these days with shows like ‘8 Out Of 10 Cats’ and ‘Commercial Breakdown’ so his new live stand up show ‘Rapier Wit’ at The Cresset on Saturday September 5 will be rammed. He’s so popular they’ve twisted his arm to perform two shows – one at 7pm and one at 10pm. Tickets for either show are £22.50 each from the box office on 01733 265705 or 01733 842500 or online at www.cresset.co.uk This month, Stamford Comedy Club ‘Ship of Fools’ returns to the Arts Centre on Friday July 24 with a line-up I’m not personally familiar with, but who sound well worth a look judging by their reviews. Sol Bernstein performs outrageous character comedy in the guise of a veteran Jewish comic while Mike Belgrave is strong new talent from London. Thirdly there’s Irish comic Chris McCausland described as ‘comedy brilliance’ by the likes of Jasper Carrott and as an ‘absolute natural’ by Dave Spikey. Tickets are a tenner and money well spent for some Friday night laughs.
Loughton BBQ RESTAURANT & BAR
GO ON…GO ON…GO ON… GO SEE MRS DOYLE!
Experience the Turkish delights of the new look Our professional chefs from Turkey bring a brand new taste to the area with a fabulous range of authentic dishes and Turkish style BBQ.
SUNDAYS BBQ Buffet - £10 adults, £5 kids Eat as many starters and desserts as you like from our buffet, then choose your main course from our BBQ. Sunday Roast also available.
THURSDAYS Buffet and Belly Dancer A large selection of dishes is available at our buffet every Thursday night. Both hot and cold dishes are served and we are sure you will be entertained by our belly dancer during your meal. Adults £10 and children £5 (Booking is advised)
WEDNESDAYS Senior Citizen’s Lunchtime Special - £6.95 Our chef will create a new menu every Wednesday lunchtime using the freshest ingredients.
• Restaurant open from noon until 10pm daily • Open to the public for breakfast everyday 7am - 12noon • Motel accommodation (refurbished rooms - single £45, double and twin rooms £65) • Function room - caters for parties large or small and conferences up to 150 people
3 The Towngate East, Market Deeping Telephone: 01778 347579
Andy Slater’s
andy.slater@espmag.co.uk
comedy value. There were some musical delights to be had on the way, Ade Edmonson, yep the funny man, was with his band The Bad Shepherds and they were superb. There were 600 people in a big top, on Sunday afternoon with a very capable band playing folk punk covers! Imagine mandolin, pipes violin and guitar smashing into ‘God Save the Queen’. Yep it happened, along with lots of Clash and the like. Check The Bad Shepherds out, they’ll have you boppin’ and laughing all the way through their set. A great festival, well organised and well run, more of that please.
STEALER: FLETTON CLUB When people talk about 60s rock bands its invariably The Stones and The Who that get name checked. However out of the flowerloving, post-pop hippy movement came Free. Their appearance was one of loons (flared trousers to the unknowing), cheesecloth and long hair but their music was most definitely rock based.
Now call me prophetic, (no not pathetic!) but three of my predictions have come to pass as they say, Cambridge sold out in a thrice and Glastonbudget and Big Session were brilliant. However I didn’t predict that I’d buy the most ridiculous festival hat ever – photographic evidence provided! Firstly Glastonbudget. The sun shone which is a major plus for any festival, the bands were great and the organisation was spot on. Special guest Chesney Hawkes was a revelation, I think that most of the crowd who gathered in the front at the main stage were there to deride the guy but actually he blew just about everyone away! Charisma and talent in bucket loads and a cracking band around him made for a good couple of hours. My favourite was The Rubber Plants, a slightly ambiguous name for a Led Zep tribute from Northern Ireland, bare in mind it was a tribute band festival. Fronted by Gavin (a little guy with who I joked later that his ma wanted him to be a jockey) a lead singer nailed the role completely. They had the marquee rocking and the songs and vocals were about perfect, a great way to spend a Saturday afternoon. The fact I spent some of the time ‘surfing’ on a table on top of a fire to ‘Crazy Horses’ by the Osmonds tells you something of the kind of festy it was. Next year? Definitely. Big Session at De Montfort Hall in Leicester was a bit more folk derived but great in its own way. The people stewarding are the best I have come across, the organisers could not have a better team. Harvey the site copper was a blast too. He was watching the bands, having a laugh with everyone and reminding the world what policing is all about, whilst wearing pink sunglasses for
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So to other revelations – most people are put off of festivals because they can’t get a wash and think they’re stinky. Well those clever buggers at Maplins in Peterborough city centre have come up with a car shower. No you muppet you don’t wash your car with it, you plug it into the car lighter and shower your self. It consists of a little pump a hose and shower head and it’s a paltry £9.99. I have purchased one and will try it the next time I’m out in a field. No photographs mind, I don’t want all you ladies feeling ill… Festivals to watch out for in the coming weeks include The Rhythm Festival at Bedford. The Proclaimers are one of the headliners and after watching Chesney I will reserve judgement on them despite a gut feeling that they’re quickly going to irritate me. If so I’ll have to go to the bar, so all in all I could be onto a winner. Also the intriguingly named Sex Patels are on the bill, I can’t wait! www.rhythmfestival.net Formula One boss Eddie Jordan obviously has the inside track (pun) on the future of the sport so has decided to get a second job to keep the dollar rolling in. He’s launched Monarchy Live a music festival at Ragley Hall in Warwickshire. The line up for this one dayer includes The Happy Mondays, Supergrass and Reverend and the Makers with lots of dance tents and DJs to entertain if that’s your bag. It’s only £55 which is not too bad and it’s fast approaching on July 4. Visit www.monarchylive.co.uk for info and full line up. OK I’m off to Hyde Park now to see Neil Young and Bruce Springsteen the following night, I’ll let you know how it goes next time.
‘Wishing Well’ has always been one of my favourite tracks. I was about 12 years old and watching a live band playing on the back of a flat bed trailer in the local park, my brother Jeff was wandering around in a bottle green velvet jacket with a Mickey Mouse stencil on the back when the band broke into ‘Wishing Well’. I knew then that this was how I wanted to spend the rest of my life. There are always options when forming a tribute band: lookalikey but not very good, or forget the image and play the music spot on. Fortunately Stealer opt for the second option. Richard Hall is renowned around the area for his acoustic songsmithery but his voice lends itself perfectly to the Paul Rodgers style. He’s also a good front man which is always a help when you are copying one of the best. The band around him are also good, mind you with Lee Dash on drums you won’t get anything else. The guys blistered through the lesser known tracks and paid fitting tribute to the classic hits, ‘All Right Now’,’ My Brother Jake’ and of course the sublime ‘Wishing Well’. With Steve Valentine on bass, Steve Pitts on guitar and Russ Hill on keys, they really are an accomplished band. A fitting tribute to a great band of the past. However, Richard… the band name is an issue (I can feel him wincing as I type!) I was talking to the guys at Club Revolution and two of them didn’t realise that you were a Free tribute and they booked you for the Wishbone Ash gig - See! (Free’d has been used).
andy.whittaker@espmag.co.uk
LIVEMUSIC STAMFORD RIVERSIDE FESTIVAL Time flies and another year zooms by to make way for the festival season once again. Glastonbudget is now a distant memory, while Glastonbury itself remains fresh in our memory, as do many of the local events throughout the Peterborough Festival. However, it’s Stamford’s Riverside Festival that always gets the juices flowing for live music lovers and this year is no exception. Saturday July 4 is the date, with four stages and over 40 acts taking part. The Acoustic Stage looks of particular interest this year with Kerry Devine kicking things off at 1pm, plus Dr Robeatnik at 5.45pm and local duo The Candle Thieves at 8.30pm who are definitely worth a look… and not forgetting the after-party at Mama Liz’s, North Street, Stamford later into the evening.
STORM IN A NIGHTCLUB I was surprised the other week when I popped over to Stamford for the night and saw Storm putting on a great performance in one of the local hostelries; as there had been rumours/fears they had split up. It turns out, however, that they’ve been off the circuit for a while because Dave (the singer) did his back in! Now back to full fitness and with the trademark shaved head to boot, Storm are back and are sounding as good as ever. To listen to the best in classic rock and be part of their Peterborough comeback gig on Saturday July 4, get yourself down to The Cherry Tree, Oundle Road, Peterborough. Alternatively, try Saturday July 25 at The Bell, Sawtry.
www.myspace.com/thecandlethieves www.myspace.com/stamfordriver sidefestival
IS THIS THE REAL LIFE… Is this just fantasy…? The answer to both questions is a resounding ‘yes’ as Queen tribute band, The Bohemians, head to the Bourne Corn Exchange on Saturday July 18 to perform a night of classic rock hits. The Bohemians are a favourite with the official Queen fan club and have been seen and praised by both Brian May and Roger Taylor. From the first few bars of ‘We Will Rock You’ until the rousing finale of ‘We Are the Champions’, you’ll be singing along like a good-un! Tickets cost £10 in advance or £12 on the door. www.thebohemians.com www.bournecornexchange.co.uk
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CROWLAND BLUES CLUB “Top quality blues performers with international reputations” is what was promised from the Crowland Blues Club when they established in January. And they’ve been true to their word, with performances by the likes of Kent Duchaine and The Joel White Band. July is no exception as the Ray Fenwick Blues Band head to The Crown Inn, West Street, Crowland on Sunday July 5. Ray has played in many bands, including the Spencer Davis Group and the Ian Gillan Band and has developed his own particular take on ‘the blues’. Tickets are £10 and available on the door or by emailing. crowlandbluesclub@live.co.uk
STRUM WOT YA BRUNG Yup… it took me a couple of attempts to read it too, but be assured that Strum Wot Ya Brung is not a class for dyslexic guitar heroes, but an exciting new event being held on Wednesday July 29 and the last Wednesday of each month thereafter at the Westwood Hotel, Mayors Walk,
Peterborough. As the name suggests, if you play guitar and/or sing, then go along and try your luck. The plan is to give a platform to fresh, new and diverse talent and anyone from 18 to 80 (or older) is welcome, it’s free and starts at 7.30pm. For more information go to the website: www.peterboroughfolkdiary.org
THE MALINGERERS From the ashes of twisted-country/surf band, The Surgens, a brand new band has arisen in the form of The Malingerers. Playing old-time country/blues (think Hank Williams, Leadbelly & Woodie Guthrie), they are already gaining quite a reputation for producing toe-tapping melodies backed by a shuffly snare, bouncing bass and wailing harmonica, along with some of the best guitar picking you’ll see this side of the Mississippi! Saturday July 11 sees The Malingerers joining The Dead Rabbits and The One Eyed Cats at Mama Liz’s Voodoo Lounge as part of the Steve Fletcher benefit event. Then on Saturday July 18 The Malingerers are teaming up with Old Nick and the Black Well (ex Moosjaw) to play at The Palmerston Arms, Oundle Road, Peterborough for an up-close and personal show not to be missed.
LAZY SUNDAY AFTERNOON If you fancy sitting back with a glass of wine in-hand, listening to a bit of lightclassical, then you won’t find a much better opportunity than at 5pm on Sunday July 12, when top stringquartet, Intermezzo, play a relaxing session at Mama Liz’s on North Street, Stamford. From baroque to early classical, romantic and jazz, this amazing quartet are showcasing their talents on one of the rare occasions they get to play ‘just for fun’! www.mamaliz.co.uk
THE BRAYS Having put on a fantastic performance in Central Park as part of this year’s Peterborough Festival, The Brays have announced that they will be performing a headline gig at Scala in London (just across the road from Kings Cross station) on Saturday July 11. This is another stepping-stone on their way to international stardom, with bands as high-profile as Coldplay, having cut their teeth there in their early days. If you fancy going, check out the band website for details. www.myspace.com/thebraysband
www.myspace.com/malingerers
EVERYTHING’S ALRIGHT Having brought her first guitar early in 2007 and playing her first live gig later that year, Lexie Green has been honing her songwriting skills and is now in the latter stages of the Festival 4 Stars Songwriting Contest. She now needs your votes to get to the next level. Anyone can listen to her entry, ‘Everything’s Alright’, and vote… in fact, you can vote every hour! Lexie hopes to get to the November finals and perform in front of Robib Gibb, with the chance to win a huge recording opportunity. “Please, please, please, with sugaricing and a cherry on top, please vote as many times as you can!” is the message from Lexie! http://festival4starslive.com/main/? page_id=251 www.lexiegreen.com
ESSENTIAL LIGHT ORCHESTRA A tribute to one of the definitive bands of the seventies, Electric Light Orchestra comes to the Stamford Corn Exchange on August 15. Essential Light Orchestra are five talented musicians who apparently share an intense chemistry that captures the soul of all of ELO’s best songs, such as ‘Mr Blue Sky’, ‘Turn to Stone’ and ‘10538 Overture’ – come along and re-live the age of prog rock. Tickets are £13 from the box office on 01780 766455.
RIVERSIDE DINING - BLUES, BREWS AND FINE VIEWS
The Golden Pheasant 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 Main Road, Etton, Peterborough. Tel: 01733 252387 www.goldenpheasant.net
Food
(available to all non-members)
Bar snacks from
£3.50 £4.95 or 2 courses from
Food Times Mon – Fri Lunch 11am – 2pm (Bar snacks from £3.50 or 2 courses from £4.95) Evening 5pm – 8pm Saturday Lunch 11am – 3pm Evening 10pm ‘til late
Sunday Lunch 12pm – 4pm (£7.95 for 2 courses)
• Relax by the river in the largest beer garden in the City Centre • Great selection of Real Ales • Traditional Ciders • Extensive range of Belgian/Continental Beers, Whiskeys and Wine
Saturday 11th July
Bearcats Blues Band Friday 17th July
Angryman Friday 31st July
Lightnin’ Willie & the Poorboys Saturday 1st August
Bare Bones Boogie Band
Watch out for our Summer Sundays Live music in the garden. (See website for details)
Town Bridge, Peterborough 01733 315700 www.oakhamales.com
Live Music July 4th 11th 18th 25th
Irene’s Secret Mustang Blue After Dark Intruders
August 1st Overdubs
Members Club New members welcome Admission £2 – members free Admission £2 – members free Admission £2 – members free Admission £2 – members free
Admission £2 – members free
Also A selection of fine real ales • Darts, dominoes, crib, snooker and pool also available • Function room available for party hire (not Saturdays)
Ebeneezers, Grove Street, Peterborough Tel: 01733 567352
gigs@espmag.co.uk
GIGGUIDE THU JUL 2
IRENE’S SECRET
THE CHUCK NORRIS EXPERIENCE
Ebeneezers Oundle Road
The Toreador Bar Stamford
FRI JUL 3 ACOUSTIC NIGHT
SHORT NOTICE The Hit or Miss Stamford
STORM Cherry Tree Oundle Road
The Cellar Bar Thorpe SWEET REVENGE Lodge New Decoy Thorpe Road Newborough
GRUMPY OLD MEN New England Club Occupation Road
THE GANGSTERS The Brewery Tap Westgate
HOOKER
SUN JUL 5
Whittle Way Stanground
RAY FENWICK BLUES BAND
MATT ZILCH
The Crown Inn Crowland
The Toreador Bar Stamford
MONKEY BOY The Cock Inn Werrington
OPEN MIC NIGHT Thorpe Lodge Hotel Thorpe Road
PORKY PIG The Elmtree Tavern Dogsthorpe
RICH YOUNG The Hit or Miss Stamford
SHANE POOLE The Roundhead Bretton
THE LOUNGE
TUE JUL 7 ACOUSTIC NIGHT The Millstone Barnack
FRI JUL 10 101 PROOF
SEAN WILSON + TONY MAC The Plough Farcet Fen
SYMPTOM The Fayre Spot Bretton
SAT JUL 11
AMANDA (SOLO SINGER) The Roundhead Bretton Charters Town Bridge
The Harrier Gunthorpe
GRUMPY OLD MEN The Cherry Tree Oundle Road
ICONS OF THE BRAVE
ALADDINSANE
Thorpe Lodge Hotel Thorpe Road
IRISH MUSIC CRASH AND BURN FESTIVAL
Mayors Walk
PANDORA'S BOX Cherry Tree Oundle Road
PORKY PIG The Golden Fleece Stamford
RAGESTAR The Post Office Club New England
RETROLUX
PORKY PIG
SAT JUL 18
Royal Oak Walton
BURLESQUE
The Plough Farcet Fen
CRASH & BURN
RICH HALL BAND Thorpe Lodge Hotel Thorpe Road
AFTERDARK
LIVE BAND
Ebeneezers Oundle Road
Mama Liz's Voodoo Lounge Stamford
Cherry Tree Oundle Road The Lime Tree Walton
PORKY PIG The Straw Bear Whittlesey
The Harrier Gunthorpe
OPEN MIC NIGHT Cherry Tree Oundle Road
THIS IS COLOUR + SHADOW LAW + MARTYR DEFILED + KHALO The Park Park Road
101 PROOF
INTRUDERS
The Blue Bell Dogsthorpe
Ebeneezers Oundle Road
DR A'S BLUES CONSORTIUM
LIVE BAND
The Fayre Spot Bretton
GIZZ BUTT
SLIDE TO OPEN
LES WOODS BAND
OPEN MIC NIGHT
FRI JUL 31
Cherry Tree Oundle Road
LEFTOVAS
THU JUL 30
The Roundhead Bretton
PULSE
The Hit or Miss Stamford
Westwood Hotel Mayors Walk
BENJI
The Blue Bell Dogsthorpe
LATESHOW
The Toreador Bar Stamford
JOHN QUINN
Thorpe Lodge Hotel Thorpe Road
FRI JUL 24
The Hit or Miss Stamford
BLAKE & BRAZIL + DECLAN GAYNOR
ARON VAN BEEKEN
The Deeping Stage Market Deeping
THE ROAD CREW
SUN JUL 12
SAT JUL 25
MIGHTY QUINN
Ebeneezers Oundle Road
The Hit or Miss Stamford
Cherry Tree Oundle Road
LIVE BAND DAY
MUSTANG BLUE
The Cock Inn Werrington
TUNNEL
SUN JUL 19
DR A'S BLUES CONSORTIUM GETH EVANS & AUSTIN BRENNAN
The Blue Bell Dogsthorpe
The Fayre Spot Bretton
The Harrier Gunthorpe
Thorpe Lodge Hotel Thorpe Road
The Blue Bell Dogsthorpe
ACOUSTIC NIGHT
Thorpe Lodge Hotel Thorpe Road
Corn Exchange Bourne
The Plough Farcet Fen
SAT JUL 4
FRONT COVER
WED JUL 29
The Blue Bell Dogsthorpe
SWAMP ROCK
THE BOHEMIANS
The Swiss Cottage Woodston
The Lime Tree Walton
The Roundhead Bretton
Mama Liz's Voodoo Lounge Stamford
SLIDE TO OPEN
MURRAY HOCKRIDGE & THE ONE EYED DAVE KILMINSTER CATS Thorpe Lodge Hotel
ANGRYMAN
The Fayre Spot Bretton
BENJI
METAL/PUNK BANDS
Thorpe Road BLINDFOLDS ALADDINSANE ASIDE + SAMMYS POSTMORTEM The Blue Bell FATAL MISTAKE Dogsthorpe PROMISES + Mama Liz's Voodoo CINDERS FALL BEARCATS BLUES Lounge The Park BAND Stamford Park Road Charters ELECTRIC Town Bridge RETURNS WARRIORS The Cock Inn DEAD RABBITS + The Blue Bell Werrington MALINGERERS + Dogsthorpe THE ONE EYED CATS LEON Mama Liz's Voodoo MALINGERERS + The Fayre Spot Lounge OLD NICK + THE Bretton Stamford BLACK WELL Palmerston Arms LLOYD WATSON FRIXION Oundle Road Westwood Hotel
Cherry Tree Oundle Road The Cross Keys Oundle Road
FRI JUL 17
Thorpe Lodge Hotel Thorpe Road
LES WOODS BAND The Swiss Cottage Woodston
LIGHTNIN WILLIE & THE POORBOYS
The Cock Inn Werrington
Charters Town Bridge
STORM
OAK
The Bell Sawtry
The Hit or Miss Stamford
UNTAMED + PET SLIMMERS OF THE YEARS + POINT SEVEN PISTOL + CAMELTOE + DGAS
STEALER Cherry Tree Oundle Road
The Plough Farcet Fen
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.
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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 available with a coupon and is only valid when £25 or more is spent on food between 29th April - 2nd Aug 2009 inclusive. 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
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clubland@espmag.co.uk
CLUBLAND and Brazilian dancers for Pimpsoul, a Voodoo party that sounds pretty interesting. Also this month, support Stamford Skate Park with two fundraising nights at Mama Liz’s, the first of which is Shindig on July 3 with house and drum ‘n’ bass, as well as cutting-edge dubstep and breaks. The second fundraiser is Frequency on July 10, which finally brings techno and electronica to Stamford head down, have fun and help the skate park cause at the same time! Entry for all the nights above is £3.
PENDULUM SLAM INTO PETERBOROUGH YO WESTWOOD! Listen up, Tim Westwood is back in the Boro at Pulse 8 nightclub (formerly Faith) on Geneva Street on July 24. Tickets to see the top Radio One DJ are £8. New guys on the block Millionaire Sounds hope to bring other big names to the city like KANO, Chipmunk, N-Dubz and Spice so watch this space. To get VIP entry for the Westwood night email millionaire.sound@live.co.uk
ELEMENT’S BIG NIGHT What’s being billed as the biggest Drum n Bass night the city’s ever seen is set for Club Metro on London Road on August 7. Brought to you by Element, the headliners are Taxman, Nicky Blackmarket, Simon ‘Bassline’ Smith, Futurebound and Serial Killaz with support from the Element DJs and MCs. It’s on from 9pm – 6am, entry £10 all night but you can reserve places by emailing your full name to ElementTickets@live.com. Info and box office: 07925 090865.
COMPETITIONS HEAT UP AT DISSIDENT The DJ competition at Club Dissident is reaching the final stages with loads of city DJs getting a taste of the limelight and the chance to get spotted by promoters. The quarter-finals are running every Thursday until July 23 and 18 DJs are battling it out for a place at the final on August 16, where they’ll each have an hour-long set to wow the crowds and maybe win the top prize of £200. There’s also an MC competition taking place at Element at Club Dissident on July 3, with the winner getting the chance to MC alongside big names set to appear at Element in August. As well as showcasing some of the best vocal talent the city has to offer, there’ll also be loads of drum ‘n’ bass for you to dance to as well.
MAMA LIZ’S GOES ELECTRONIC Mama Liz’s in Stamford has a packed diary of new club nights this month, no doubt thanks to DJs Cas, Pat Unwin, Rick McAlpin, DJ Mad Scatter and DJ X’s spinning every Friday and Saturday. Balance comes to Mama Liz’s on July 25 and will combine deep tech and funky house with a little bit of breaks and July 31 sees soulful, party grooves
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www.espmag.co.uk ( July )
Ever wondered how Pendulum got so incredibly massive? Head to The Park on July 17 for a rare chance to see them perform in a relatively tiny venue with MC Jakes and you’ll see why! Responsible for taking the drum ‘n’ bass sound to new audiences across the globe, they even performed a mental headline set at metal festival Download – at time of going to press a few tickets were still available so get booking now. Tickets £15 on 01733 310383 or visit: www.thepark4music.com
PSY-TRANCE AND DUBSTEP @ DISSIDENT It’s time to get psychedelic for Sin-thesis at Club Dissident on July 11, where the finest psy-trance will be played all night. Dissident gets a little deeper and darker on July 17 for Submerge, where High Rankin’ will be playing his unique take on D’n’B, as well as other DJs to be confirmed – this night is usually heavy on the dubstep and it’s usually a good, bass-heavy night. Entry £5.
24-HOUR PARTY PEOPLE After spending all day at the Riverside Festival in Stamford on July 4, head to Mama Liz’s for the Official After-Party from DigDeep, starring the Littlemen. Featuring members of the Smokescreen Collective and the Giddy Fruit Collective, they’ll be coming together to play deep, funky house and will be making sure the festival’s party vibe continues well into the small hours. Entry £4.
D‘N’B TILL IT HERTZ Drum ‘n’ bass superstar and all-round celebrity Goldie returns to his roots with a special set at Hertz at Club Dissident on July 11. Starting off in the Jungle scene in the early 90’s, he found fame as a producer and has become enough of a household name to star in films. It’s a massive coup for Hertz to get a star of his standing, so make sure you don’t miss your chance to see him up close and personal! Support on the night comes from a special three-way Dreadnought Records set from Total Dark Matter, Selecta and Hallsie, who’ll no doubt be looking to impress, as well as sets from residents. Advance tickets are £20, which includes five (yes, five) free drinks including doubles – a bargain all round. Entry on the night is £15, but expect a big queue. Tickets from – 01733 751102 or 07904 016393.
ONE BIG BIRTHDAY BASH! One of the good things about being a DJ is that your birthday parties tend to be pretty mental – and Bizzy of Black Heart Sounds is having a big one! Starting with Bizzy’s Birthday Bash on July 24, the champagne will be flowing and Lion, TK Sound, Ghetto Genius, Killler Contrast, Black Rhyno, Sargasound, Jah Hanief and Black Heart Sounds will be playing everything from R’n’B, slow jams and reggae to funky house and bassline. The party doesn’t stop there – it moves over to Club Dissident on July 31 for ‘Hustlers and Divas’, probably one of the most glamourous nights the venue’s ever seen. The music policy remains the same and Millenium Sound, Black Heart Sound, Village Sound, Supa Nytro and Nitro Star will be in charge of the decks. Make sure you dress to impress, as there’ll be live video recordings being made of both nights. Entry £7 for both. DJ Bizzy and DJ Lion are also joining forces for Spotlight Thursday, where they’ll be taking over Club Dissident every Thursday night this month with the first night on July 2.
LADIES NIGHT @ THE PARK Urban girls: listen up! A special ladies night hits The Park on July 25, with Ann Summers lingerie on show, erotic dancers and Jamaican reggae dancers. It’s bound to be a sexy night with Cryer DJ and Everett Irie spinning some seriously smooth urban tunes and old-skool classics. There’ll be free entry, a free buffet and a free raffle, as well as drinks offers all night. To book your place on the guest list, text your name and town to 07970 394398. Gentlemen (and only gentlemen!) are welcome after 12pm, entry £5.
RED, WHITE AND BASSLINE Celebrate Independence Day in style on July 4 with a transatlantic link-up at The Park with Club Hotta Dan. Featuring Carolina’s Flex Caliber and DJ Mo Chips from the Deep South as well as Doom Man, Big English, Cryer DJ and Everett Irie from the UK, who’ll be spinning the latest urban tunes. The dress code is red, white, blue and sexy, so get your outfit planned now! Entry £5 for the first 100 people, £7 after.
CALLING DANCEHALL QUEENS This month’s Speed Swing at The Park on July 3 is in conjunction with Wah Gwan Family, a brand-new urban and streetwear designer and thanks to the raffle, you’ll be getting the chance to win some of the freshest threads around as well as a Panasonic home cinema system and a Sony DVD Player. Music on the night comes from Fudgie Springer, a US-based reggae and dancehall star known for his love of the ladies – there’ll also be a Dancehall Queen competition on the night where the sexiest lady will win cash, champagne and Hennessy, as well as a trophy! Entry is £10, which includes a raffle ticket.
Cock Inn W E R R I N G T O N
• Mon Night Biker Nite • Every Sunday night Karaoke
July Fri 3rd Sat 4th Sat 11th Sat 18th Sat 25th
Monkey Boy Disco Porky Pig Returns Slide To Open
1305 Lincoln Road, Werrington, Peterborough
VIP available, please email: millionaire.sound@live.co.uk
sport@espmag.co.uk
LOCALSPORT
vision Darragh MacAnthony
ESP’s Mark Shaw grabs an exclusive word with Peterborough United chairman Darragh MacAnthony… There may have been plenty of speculation during the summer about the future of the Posh manager and some of the star players, but there’s just one man the club couldn’t do without – and he’s never been picked nor played for the first team. He was, however, the star attraction at the end of season promotion party, and even joined the fans standing in London Road. Without Darragh MacAnthony there’s no saying where Posh would be now. One thing’s for sure though, since he walked into London Road in September 2006, thanks to the Irishman’s millions, the only way has been up.
So what is the verdict of the man himself? ESP grabbed a few moments of Darragh’s time to find out… “It’s all gone to plan since I arrived here, bar not winning any silverware,” said Darragh “and we are on course to get to the top inside of five years.
promise success and end up doing nothing?” It’s really been a case of so far so good with back to back to promotions and Posh looking forward to life in the Championship – and hopefully beyond, if Darragh gets his way.
“People here have been brilliant from day one, although obviously some of them thought I was a bit of a dreamer with my ambitions. I think they may just believe me now!
“I want to get Posh into the Premier League, and see them become an established club there, playing in a 25,000 all-seater stadium. Then I want to expand the Posh brand to America and Asia.
“I didn’t get scepticism to my face but I could see it and I didn’t have an issue with that. How many people take over clubs and
“I wouldn’t own Posh if I didn’t think they could compete at the top of the Championship and into the Premier League.”
Photos: Terry Harris and Tom Scott
TOUR SERIES PETERBOROUGH
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Darragh also revealed to ESP he was attracted to Posh because he saw “a club with long term potential”. But business means he won’t be able to spend more time here. “I am busier than ever – and I am gutted not to see every game. Peterborough is a great city and full of great people who are starting to show their support for their local team.” So what of the future? Darragh says next season Posh fans can expect “promotion for the third year in a row and some history”, while he intends to be with Posh “for years to come”, and there’ll be news on the new ground “soon hopefully.”
Hands up who caught the Tour Series cycle action in Peterborough? It’s been great to see the city put on the map… and the TV! The good news is it could be back again in 2010. Tour Series Peterborough attracted around 8,000 people to the city centre, with more than 10,000 visiting through the course of the day to see events including the carnival parade, Rolapaluzza racing and BMX demonstrations or to join in cycling round the racetrack. Former rower James Cracknell also
www.espmag.co.uk ( July )
Photos: Joe Dent
Man of
It's another happy summer for Posh fans after the boys made it back to back promotions. Mark Shaw catches up with two of the season's top players as they look to a future in the Championship…
QUICK QUESTIONS Best moment of your time at Posh? “The two promotions” Worst moment of your time at Posh? “Losing 4-1 at Leicester” Who’s your favourite Posh player? “All of them!” What’s your favourite thing in the whole world? “My Family” And you favourite place in the world? “New York” What’s your favourite meal? “Chinese” Favourite drink? “Bud!” Any match day superstitions? “Loads and not enough time to tell them all” Favourite part of match day? “The final whistle after winning” What’s the funniest thing Barry Fry has ever said to you “I can’t say in public as it would upset children!!”
attended to report on the event and the eventual winner was Ian Wilkinson. Trevor Gibson, director of environment capital at Opportunity Peterborough told ESP - "The event was a huge success. The city centre was really buzzing with a fantastic atmosphere. The feedback has been tremendous from all those who came. It is great to see top class events like this and all free to residents and visitors. “It really shows what Peterborough can do and showcases its attractions to everyone who came along or who watched it on television. We hope to make this an annual event and are in discussions with Sweetspot to bring it back again next year."
The Fox
Crown Inn
• Family friendly pub with beer garden • Home cooked bar food daily • New Tapas menu available • A La Carte restaurant Thurs - Sat • Sunday lunch 12-4.30pm - booking essential • Garden marquee available for functions, weddings etc. • Petanque terrain • Outside bars and hog roast available
The Fox, Folksworth Tel: 01733 240 258
• Real Ales served in our friendly welcoming bar • Beautiful village setting • Home cooked food served Tues-Sat 12-2pm and 6pm-8pm • Sunday Lunch 12-6pm £6-95 Main St, Great Casterton, Stamford Tel: 01780 489463 www.crown-inn.net
Bluebell (DOGSTHORPE)
Street, Glinton Tel: 01733 252285 Bluebell High
• Live music every weekend (check ESP Gig Guide) • Food served Mon-Friday • Sky + Setanta sports • Real Ales • BBQ every Sunday • Quiz Night Sundays & Tuesdays • Large family beer garden St Pauls Road, Dogsthorpe Tel: 01733 554890
• Food served daily 12-2pm, 5.30-9pm except Monday night • Sunday Lunch - 12-7pm, booking advisable • Open all day Fri, Sat, Sun • Fri & Sat food 12-9pm • Fine real ales • Karaoke every last Saturday of the month
• 2 main meals £10, Tuesday - Saturday 5.30-9pm
The Roundhead
Halcyon
• Under new management • Karaoke every Friday • Live music every Saturday • Children welcome till 7pm • Happy hour 9.30am -12pm • Meals from £2.99 • Now serving Sunday roasts • FUNCTION ROOM FOR HIRE Rightwell East, Bretton. Tel: 01733 267340
• Food served all day, every day. • Sunday roast from £5.49 – full children’s menu • Sky and Setanta sports • Live music every Saturday • Karaoke every Friday • Real ales served • Undercover, heated smoking area
Cross Keys
Verve
• • • • • •
• Fresh home-cooked food • Brand new refurbishment • Friendly staff and great atmosphere • Karaoke Thu, DJ Fri and Sat • Late license til 5am • Themes nights held once a month • Children welcome during food service • Party bookings also welcome
Sky Sports Beer garden Two pool tables Live music Karaoke / Disco Sats Poker night every Sunday
Atherstone Ave, Peterbrough Tel: 01733 263801
Oundle Rd, Peterborough Tel: 01733 565103
Church Street, Peterborough Tel: 01733 561723
The Harrier(Hungry Horse)
Lime Tree
• Sky & Setanta Sports • Carling at £1.95 during major sports • Karaoke every Friday • Live bands Saturdays • Food served all day, every day • Sunday roast from £5.49 – full children’s menu 184 Gunthorpe Rd, Peterborough Tel: 01733 575362
• 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
Thorpe Lodge Hotel
ADVERTISE HERE
• Live music every weekend in the Cellar Bar • Ideal for the City Centre • 19 ensuite Guest Rooms • Evening meals served in the restaurant – open to the public • Bar snacks available • Plenty of parking • New Beer Garden 83 Thorpe Rd, Peterborough Tel: 01733 348759
Paston Lane, Walton Tel: 01733 708320
To advertise your pub here for only £16 per week call Ian on:
01733 579707
Free listings for your live entertainment included Email: ian.gray@espmag.co.uk
Last few spaces available!