JUNE 2009 Issue 118
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y e n t i brSpears Feature
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MORE TH>N CHARITABLE
CHARITY WEEKENDER AT CHEQUERS The Chequers pub in Orton Wistow has a packed weekend of entertainment lined up this month. Firstly, all Pool hotshots should get themselves a place booked at the Steven Lynch Memorial Pool Tournament at the pub on June 27 and 28 for their chance to win £100. Organised in memory of Steve Lynch, a local fireman who sadly lost his battle with Hodgkinson’s Lymphoma in 2007, all profits from the weekend will go to Cancer Research UK. There’s a whole weekend of activities planned, including a charity auction and raffle with prizes such as theatre tickets and holidays to the coast. Kids can have a go on the bouncy castle, while in the evenings there’ll be a disco – we’ve been promised there’ll be loads of hunky firemen there to dance with too! Tel: 01733 230375.
LATINIS LAUNCH NEW MENU Jay at Latinis on New Road is pretty excited about their new menu. You can now choose dishes such as Peri Peri Chicken, new Brazilian and Tapas dishes such as prawns in a creamy white wine sauce and they have fantastic new group menus and summer salads. Their ‘Tapas for a Tenner’ offer has now been extended and is proving really popular with half price Cuban cocktails, available Mon Fri 6pm-9pm. They’re also updating and adding tasty new cocktails to Bar Cuba and the best news is everything is now reduced, including cocktails, mixers and all bottled beers! Sounds good to us – see you down there!
Look to the skies over Lynchwood on July 1, where staff from More Th>n will be racing over 600 balloons, to raise funds for Sue Ryder Care, their charity of the year. They’re aiming to raise about £600 and first prize is a ride in a Virgin hot air balloon, so good luck to everyone taking part!
SUMMER BEERS @ RAMBLEWOOD Something about summer just makes us here at ESP want to sit in a garden drinking beer - if you're anything like us, don't miss the Mini Summer Beer Festival at The Ramblewood Inn, Orton Waterville from June 19 - 21. With six guest ales and a barbecue on the Sunday from 2pm there's no better way to celebrate the (hopefully!) good weather.
HOGROAST FOR HEROES The Roundhead in Bretton tell us they’ll be hosting a Hogroast Barbecue on June 6, to raise funds for the RAF Benevolent Fund. As well as being able to eat some delicious food in the beer garden, there’ll be car boot sales and drinks promotions to encourage you to donate even more! Also, if you’re into old-school Ska and Reggae, don’t miss Blast From the Past on June 20 at the Roundhead.
CHARITY PARTY @ FLETTON CLUB There’s one big party being organised in Fletton this month – head to the Fletton Ex-Serviceman’s Club on June 6 for a disco, karaoke and raffle in memory of Trish Hedges, in aid of Cancer Research UK. Organised by her friends, this promises to be a real party night with great prizes up for grabs! Entry £3.
SURFING @ THE 20TH COUNTY BALL If you fancy a night of sophistication, head to the County Ball, which is now in its 20th year, at the Holiday Inn West on June 5. Covers band Vision will be leading the entertainment, with help from the Barrie John Disco and the Dave Johnson Duo, who play relaxed Café Jazz. As well as a delicious three-course meal, there'll also be a roving musician, a caricaturist and a surf-board stimulator, just in case you get bored of dancing! Full evening tickets are £70, or late night reveller tickets are £30, which includes a champagne reception at 10.30pm and breakfast. Tickets: 01733 289931.
ATTENBOROUGH DISCOVERS THE BORO Sir David Attenborough has been the voice of nature documentaries for years and has travelled all across the world, so don’t miss your chance to meet him at Waterstone’s on Bridge Street on June 3 from 12.30, where he’ll be signing copies of his new book.
Landlord Steve Thurston told ESP - “We like to do what we can for the local community. The customers enjoy getting involved and the money always goes to good causes. We’ll be holding a beer festival in September to raise funds for Age Concern.” Good on yer guys!
BRITISH SUGAR TEAM GOES FOR IT Good luck to the two teams from British Sugar who are taking part in the Samworth Brothers Charity Challenge on June 6 up in the Lake District. They tell us they’ve all been training relentlessly over the past few months and are looking forward with trepidation to the big event! Over twelve hours, forty teams will be competing in a 14k mountain walk, 11k canoe and uphill 32k bike ride before abseiling to the finish line! Yep, we reckon they’re mad too! However they’re raising cash for Cancer Research, Sue Ryder Care and The Rotary Club - and are trying to raise as much money as possible so if you’d like to support them just go to
www.justgiving.com/sugar puffdestroyers.
JEREMY KYLE @ WATERSTONES
SOUL & MOTOWN NIGHT Get down to the Lime Tree, Walton on June 26 for Northern Soul and Motown from the Dedicated Soul Club, in aid of Cancer Research. Organised in memory of Paul ‘Winnie’ Winfield, who passed away this year. Soul legend Tommy Hunt will also be there in person to sign records and memorabilia. Entry £3. For more info, visit www.dedicated soulclub.com or call Dave on 07908 633852.
These guys have made various donations to charities and local groups throughout the years. Since 2004 the customers and staff have raised an astounding £9657.53 for local causes.
BLACK SWAN RAISES CASH Well done to The Black Swan in Farcet which has yet again raised a fantastic amount of money for Sue Ryder Care – Thorpe Hall Hospice. Staff and customers raised £843.00 at a race night which means their total raised for Sue Ryder Care is now £3431.78
In the next celeb appearance Jeremy Kyle will be coming to Waterstone’s on Bridge Street on June 15, to sign copies of his latest book, ‘I’m Only Being Honest.’ Widely known for his rather blunt interview style, his ITV chat show has become an institution and is often the only chance a certain sector of society has of getting on TV. He’ll be in store from 3pm, so don’t miss your chance to meet the legend.
The ULTIMATE
70’s DISCO PARTY Night! With Steve Allen, Eddie Nash and the Barrie John Roadshow
Friday 10th July Get in the Groove – Prizes for the best dressed! Classic 3 course Retro Buffet! Only £19.95 per person Late Night Revellers tickets available for £9.00 per person with arrival from 10pm (dancing only, excludes food)
Please call 01733 289931 to book (quoting 70’s Night) Holiday Inn, Peterborough West Thorpe Wood, Peterborough, Cambridgeshire, PE3 6SG
CARERS NEED A BREAK
AFTER DARK AT THE GOLDEN BALL
Everyone deserves a holiday, but if you’re caring for an elderly relative it’s not easy to take a break.
Dance the night away and do something good - go to the Golden Ball on June 6 at the Holiday Inn, Thorpe Wood and raise cash for Sue Ryder Care. Face of ESP Claire Smith is the special guest at this fabulous event, now in its third year. Following a lovely three-course meal, a DJ and ever-popular Peterborough band After Dark will get you moving. Dress to impress, as this year’s theme is ‘Black Tie - Feathers and Boas’. Tickets are £35, which includes a welcome drink. Tickets from 07906 794842 or 07812 374349.
If you need a little respite, Keneydon House residential care home in Delph Street, Whittlesey can offer one or two week stays as well as long term care with well trained, friendly staff in a safe and comfortable setting. The team there will even find out in advance about your relative’s daily routine, including the kind of food they like, and will do their best to help life continue as normal while you’re away. So you can take the hols you’re dreaming of this summer after all! Tel: 01733 203444 or email: keneydon@ adrcare.co.uk.
PRINCESSES: PUT THIS IN YOUR DIARY
LINFORDS CELEBRATES Linfords of Stanground are celebrating their first birthday. The chippie on Church Street in Stanground puts its success down to “a fantastic team effort among staff, customer loyalty and high quality standards.” Owner Paul has loads of experience in the industry and felt the time was right to branch out and run his own shop with his partner Sam. Paul told ESP - “We’ve had a great first year and have built a fantastic team which has made the shop a success and maintained high standards. We’re really happy to feel part of the Stanground community and would like to thank all of our customers for their valued custom.” The business prides itself on using top quality ingredients, sourcing fish from sustainable waters and chips produced from locally grown Maris Piper potatoes. They reckon they’ve got something for everyone so give them a call on 01733 565072 or pop in for a plateful and wish ‘em Happy Birthday while you’re there!
All little princesses should get their party dresses ready for the summer Princess Fairy Ball at the Holiday Inn, Thorpe Wood on June 21. It’s organised in association with Fairy Dream World to raise funds for 102.7 Heart FM’s ‘Have a Heart’ charity, which helps local disadvantaged kids. The Princess Fairy Ball, will be a little girl’s paradise, with fairies to play with, as well as afternoon tea. Heart FM’s breakfast show stars Kev and Abby will be there too. The ball runs from 3pm – 5pm and tickets are £15. For details call: 01733 289931.
BOURNE FESTIVAL This fabulous music and beer festival returns for another year kicking off on Friday June 5 from 6pm and continuing with live music, stalls, fairground rides and a footy tournament throughout the weekend. It all takes place at the Well Head Park and this year they’ll also have the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight doing a flypast on the afternoons of Saturday June 6 and Sunday June 7. See www.bourne festival.com for the full line-up.
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GET EVEN, GET GRUMPY Jenny Eclair, Wendi Peters and Suzie Blake will be huffing, puffing and complaining their way through the brand new Grumpy Old Women Show – ‘Chin Up Britain - Grumpies Fight Back’. Full of recession-busting tips such as how to use things you find under the sink as beauty products and rants about the state of the world. Hitting The Cresset on June 10, this show's bound to make you laugh enough to forget that things aren't what they used to be! Tickets £17.50. Box office: 01733 265705. www.cresset.co.uk
WHO'S NEXT?
NEVERMIND THE MENOPAUSE Cheryl Baker brings ‘Menopause: The Musical’ to the Key Theatre from June 4 - 6, a witty look at that unavoidable change in all women's lives. Based on a group of four women who meet at a lingerie sale, it's packed with one-liners and parodies of 60's, 70's and 80's hits, so it's sure to have you laughing instead of weeping! Tickets £20. Box office: 01733 207239.
BOOGIE WITH BROTHERS GIBB
Bulldog Bash favourites Who's Next will be bringing their adrenaline-fuelled tribute to The Who to Stamford Corn Exchange on June 20. With Tommyera costumes and stage sets, this show will take you back through some of the greatest rock tunes ever from edgy, Mod classics such as 'Subsitute,' anthems such as 'My Generation' and the psychedelic 'Pinball Wizard’.Tickets £13. Box office: 01780 766455 or www.stamford-corn-exchange.co.uk
Relive the disco era with Jive Talkin' at the Stamford Corn Exchange on June 13. Accompanied by a live string section, three talented singers will be recreating the sound of the Bee Gees - from their early acoustic hits, to the 70's disco classics such as 'Night Fever' and 'Stayin' Alive.' Tickets £14. Box office: 01780 766455 or www.stamfordcorn-exchange.co.uk
AN EVENING WITH BLOWERS Cricket commentary legend Henry 'Blowers' Blofeld will be coming to The Cresset on June 7 for an evening of eccentric, hilarious anecdotes and observations. Known for his gentle and rich voice, Blowers is widely loved by cricket fans and this tour gives you the chance to ask him any questions you like, and coincides with the release of his latest book. Tickets £16. Box office: 01733 265705. www.cresset.co.uk
OPEN AIR SHAKESPEARE @ TOLETHORPE Tolethorpe Hall’s Shakespeare Season 2009 begins on June 8 and this year, they’ll be performing ‘The Tempest’, ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ and Jeremy Brock’s adaption of ‘Oliver Twist’. Set within the 19th century gardens of Tolethorpe Hall, this open-air theatre is truly magical and a fairytale way to spend a summer’s evening. ‘Oliver Twist’ will play on June 8-13 and June 22-27, and a ‘Midsummer Night’s Dream’ on June 16 – 20. For more info, visit www.stamfordshakespeare.co.uk or Stamford Arts Centre. Tickets from £11. Box office: 01780 756133.
MORE THAN ELEMENTARY
THE LADY IN THE VAN
SPACE4 FILM FESTIVAL
Mystery fans should head to the South Holland Arts Centre, Spalding on June 11, where Roger Llewellyn will be bringing Sherlock Holmes to life. Full of murder, mystery and the occult, as well as humour, the show sees Arthur Conan Doyle battle to kill off his most famous character for one last time. Tickets £8.50. Box office: Tickets £14. Box office: 01775 764777. www.southhollandcentre.co.uk
Outrageous behaviour comes to Stamford Arts Centre on June 16 - 20 when Stamford Shoestring Theatre bring Alan Bennet's ‘Mrs. S’ to the stage. Based on a series of stories about Mrs Sheppard, a woman who lived in a series of increasingly battered vans in his back garden for 15 years, this play will be laugh-out-loud funny, but moving at times. Tickets £8. Box office: 01780 763203.
Just because it’s summer, it doesn’t mean that the only films around to watch are mind-numbing blockbusters – head to the Space4 Gallery at The Key Theatre to see what we mean! Their annual Short Film Festival will be running form June 29 - July 3 and will showcase some of the best films from all across the world. From comedies such as ‘The Wednesdays’, about an old couple who find a stash of ecstasy and wonder what the harm in trying just one would be, to the darker ‘Wainbu’ from Korea. For more details, visit www.thespace4.org.
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www.espmag.co.uk ( June )
entertainment@espmag.co.uk
LOCALENTERTAINMENT Liv Slater has the ESP guide to the hottest shows around…
SUMMER DANCE SPECIALS The best of Peterborough’s young talent will be taking to the stage at the Key Theatre this month, with two city dance groups performing their annual productions. ‘Shake, Ripple and Roll’ is a 50’s themed musical about a gang of kids trying to save their much-loved milkshake parlour from a wicked film star and Tu Danse Studios will be performing it on June 20. If Motown is more your thing, don’t miss ‘Ain’t No Jeté High Enough’ from June 24 – 27, when the Fit to Dance Company will be celebrating the 50th Anniversary of both Motown and Michael Jackson with sharp dances and songs straight from the streets of Detroit. Tickets to ‘Shake, Ripple and Roll’ are £6, and for ‘Ain’t No Jeté High Enough’ they are £8. Box office:01733 207239.
GIRLS WANNA HAVE FUN? Time to gather the girls together for ‘Ladies Night’ at the Cresset on June 19, where the venue will be transformed into a saucy, girlie paradise! There'll be hunky male strippers and waiters, free sparkling wine on entry, a sumptuous buffet and party tunes all night courtesy of Strobe Disco. There are discounts for group bookings, so it's perfect for an unforgettable hen night or work party. Tickets £16. Box office: 01733 265705. www.cresset.co.uk
FLAG FEN ARTS FEST They just don’t make songs like they used to – head to the Eisteddfod Summer Arts Festival at Flag Fen on June 27 and 28 for Bronze Age and Celtic-inspired song, dance, poetry and storytelling. There’ll be the chance to learn about the original Peterborians, who lived 3,500 years ago, as well as the chance to be crowned the Chief Bard of the Fens. For more info, visit www.flagfen.org or call 01733 313414.
LET’S HERE IT FOR THE GIRLS… YOU DID IT! More than 750 women including a team from ESP strutted their stuff and stomped twelve miles through the night to raise cash for Sue Ryder Care Thorpe Hall Hospice. They took to the streets around the city and the first walker crossed the finish line in just over two hours with everyone completing the route within 4 ½ hours. Face of ESP Claire Smith headed up the group of ESP girls strutting their stuff for charity and said – “The Midnight Walk was something I felt really passionate about as Thorpe Hall cared for my grandmother before she died and I really wanted to give something back. “The atmosphere was fantastic and everyone supported each other for all of the 12 miles. I’d definitely do it next year and would encourage people to take part and raise money for a very worthy cause.” It’s hoped this year’s Midnight Walk, sponsored by Serpentine Green Shopping Centre and supported by ESP Magazine as one of this year’s ‘Perfect Ten’ events in celebration of our tenth anniversary, will raise a fantastic £100,000! The kind hearted bunch from John Lewis, Park Inn, The Muffin Oven, Chartwells and Royal Sun Alliance kept the girls going by donating muffins and other supporters included Starbucks, Ramada Hotel, the Greyhound Stadium, St. Johns Ambulance and Martin Bird Photography. All our girls agreed it was a great experience and brilliant to see so many women all come together for such a great cause. Charlotte Jolly, ESP’s Health & Beauty writer said – “The last two miles were an absolute killer but it was definitely all worth while. We managed to complete it in just over three hours and I don’t think any of us had ever been so happy to see Tesco’s before!” Jackie Page, Events Fundraiser at Sue Ryder Care told ESP “We’re absolutely thrilled with the support we’ve had from the women of Peterborough. After the success of last year’s event we decided to up the challenge by increasing the walk from 10 miles to 12. We know that it was a challenge for lots of people and we’d like to thank each and every one of the women for supporting Sue Ryder Care. “We’d also like to extend a special thank you to all the wonderful volunteers who gave up a night’s sleep to make sure the ladies were all safe during the walk.” You can still sponsor the girls, just go to http://fundraising.suerydercare.org/esp/
PERFECT TEN 8
www.espmag.co.uk ( June )
Friday 5th June County Ball This year the County Ball celebrates its 20th presentation and promises yet another spectacular evening of dining and entertainment.
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.
Full ticket £75.00 per person Late night revellers (entertainment only) £30.00 per person
Friday 10th July 70s Dinner & Dance £19.95 per person
Holiday Inn Peterborough West Thorpewood, Peterborough PE3 6SG
Tel: 0870 7879 861 www.holidayinn.co.uk Friday 31st July Take That Tribute Night £19.95 per person including 3 course dinner entertainment & disco
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It’s Festival time and we’re ready for a party! We’ll be joining in the fun in the opening weekend of this year’s Peterborough Festival on Saturday June 20 so look out for the ESP girls in the parade! Catch up with the ESP Dance Crew on stage in Central Park later as a range of entertainers including The Brays and The One Eyed Cats kick off the three-week festival, organised by Peterborough City Council. From June 20 - July 5 there’ll be something for everyone with live music, theatre, a film festival, sports events and historical reenactments. Firstly the Mayor’s Festival Parade will work its way from Bridge Street at 11am to Central Park to start a weekend of free family entertainment. So, get your picnic rug out and settle down to see some great local talent plus the fantastic Jive Aces who’ll have you up on your feet swinging and dancing from 9pm.
PERFECT TEN -
The following weekend of June 27 and 28 will see the action move to the city centre, where the city’s heritage will be celebrated. Head to the grounds of Peterborough Cathedral to meet Romans and Saxons and learn about city life hundreds of years ago. There’ll also be a Viking longboat in Bridge Street. On the final weekend of July 4 and 5 check out hundreds of decorated boats as you take a stroll along the Nene for the Peterborough Boat Festival and pick up some tasty nosh at the farmers’ market and craft fair held on the Embankment. Throughout the festival, the Mask Theatre group will be giving performances in Central Park, and students from Peterborough Regional College will show off their drama skills at Peterborough Museum. There’s too much to mention here, so keep an eye on www.peterboroughfestival.com and www.espmag.co.uk for all the latest. To get involved, e-mail festival@peterborough.gov.uk or call 01733 207235. Photo: AK Event Photography
There’s plenty to get involved with throughout both days but the highlight on Sunday evening is a concert by the City of Peterborough Symphony Orchestra, featuring
a special guest conductor. There’s no need to miss the Grand Prix action either, just bring dad down on Fathers Day to watch it on the big screen in the Sports Lounge marquee.
RIVERSIDE FESTIVAL
JOIN LITE FM @ THE DRAGON BOAT RACE The Riverside Festival returns to Stamford on July 4 for one of the best value music festivals in the entire country. Sponsored by Ideal Shopfitters and organised by volunteers on a not-for-profit basis, the one day festival features four stages which cater for pretty much all tastes in music. We like it so much we’ve made it one of our series of Perfect Ten events, celebrating our ten years in business, so look out for us at the fest! The main stage is the Riverside Stage and headlining are Neck, a London/Irish folk/punk band. They’ve performed at Glastonbury six times and their raucous but melodic party music will be a great close to a stage that’ll be showcasing some of the area’s best local bands and festival favourites. Also on the Riverside Stage will be fast-emerging electro band Rosie and the Goldbug, who’ve already managed to score a Number 1 in the UK Club charts and an advert contract with Rimmel. Describing themselves as ‘Kate Bush on crack,’ their cool, uplifting Indie disco will be perfect to dance to on the Meadows.
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www.espmag.co.uk ( June )
If you’re more into punk, hardcore and metal, then head for the pit in the Marquee Stage. Loads of up-and-coming local acts will be attempting to tear up the tent, with headliners Death Valley Piledriver, who’ve recently been awarded four K’s in Kerrang! for their live show, finishing the job. Of course, more relaxed sounds will be on offer in the Acoustic Tent, where roots and world acts will be taking to the stage. Headlining is Nuala and The Alchemy Quartet, Wychwood favourites specialising in a blend of roots and funk. The Busker’s Stage is your chance to play at the festival – slots to perform are available to book online now, or you can just turn up on the day. There’ll be entertainment for all ages too, with funfairs, craft stalls, food vans and a beer festival. Admission’s just £2 for adults and £1 for kids over ten, so there’s really no excuse not to take the whole family along! See www.riversidefestival.co.uk for the full line-up. Liv Slater
The Embankment goes east on June 21 for the Dragon Boat Festival, which will see teams from across the city do battle in ornate 40' Chinese rowing boats - but if you fancy taking part in the action, there's still time to enter! It's a great thing to do with a gang of mates or work colleagues even when you're not racing, there's a real carnival atmosphere on the banks and this year, Lite FM's roadshow will be there to get the party started. You can bring the whole family along too, as there'll be a funfair, Chinese lion dancing and a bouncy castle as well as the allimportant beer tent and food vans. The whole day is organised to raise funds for charity, whether one of your own choice, or Peterborough SportsAid Foundation, the choice of sponsors Crighton's of Peterborough. The Foundation helps young local sports stars rise to the top, by providing much needed grants. The team who raise the most sponsorship in total will win a Pan-Asian meal at East Restaurant, just down river. To enter, call Gable Events on 01780 470718 or visit www.dragonboatfestivals.co.uk/peterborough. Liv Slater
DISCO INFERNO Time to get the flares out of mothballs for the Ultimate 70’s Disco Party Night at the Holiday Inn, Thorpe Wood on July 10. DJ’s 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. In between throwing shapes, you’ll also be able to enjoy a classic three-course Retro Supper, with prawn cocktail, chicken and chips and baked alaska – just like back in the day! Tickets £19.95, Late Night Revellers dancing-only ticket £9 with arrival from 10pm. Box office: 01733 289931.
events@espmag.co.uk
LOCALEVENTS IT'S ALL GONE TO THE DOGS...
Enjoy the exquisite fresh flavours from Thailand, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, Vietnam and Korea.... on the River Nene's largest boat!
One of ESP's favourite night's of the year returns on July 2 - the Human Dog Race in aid of Sue Ryder Care, where Peterborough Greyhound Track gets a little surreal. Basically, competitors get dressed up in dog costumes and race around the track, while the real dogs get a night off. This year there’ll also be televised dog races throughout the evening which spectators can bet on. It's always a great laugh and if you fancy getting a team together, there's still time to enter. Join us there and you can eat, drink and gamble to your heart’s content, all while raising funds for Sue Ryder Care's Thorpe Hall Hospice - everyone wins! To enter, or for more info, call Emma Long on 01733 330060 or email emma.long@suerydercare.org Liv Slater
EAST OF ENGLAND SHOW We can’t believe it’s that time already! The East of England Show returns on June 19 – 21 and this year, the organisers are celebrating the roots of rural life, with a special display of steam-powered and vintage machinery, alongside all the usual family fun! As well as livestock competitions, there’ll be equestrian displays, showjumping and the Country Sports Arena, which’ll be showcasing loads of mad rural games – they’ll definitely be more interesting than football! If none of this manages to grab your attention, there’ll be the Peterborough International Orchid Society show, and for a little retail therapy you can shop ‘til you drop at over 400 stalls selling everything from clothes and crafts to the finest in local produce. Tickets are £11 for adults, £5 for kids. Box office: 0845 600 5445 or www.eastofengland.org.uk Liv Slater
BANGS AND THE BEATLES Get ready for an explosive night in Oundle at the Fireworks Party on July 11, which promises to be even better than usual. Part of the Oundle International Festival, which celebrates its 25th anniversary this year, the Fireworks Party will feature live music from the Bootleg Beatles and The Manfreds. The Bootleg Beatles have been touring as a Beatles tribute for the best part of 30 years, and over this time have won over thousands of fans in their own right. Known for recreating the spirit of the Fab Four's heyday, they'll be joined by a brass and string ensemble to tell the story of the Beatles. Supporting them will be The Manfreds, who feature members of Manfred Mann and will be playing 60's pop and their hits, such as 'Do-Wah-Diddy' and '5-4-3-2-1.' The Oundle International Festival runs from July 10-19 and features everything from orchestras and exhibitions to cabaret and jazz. It's a chance to discover something entirely different - some of the world’s most respected musicians and artists will be right on our doorstep, so don't miss out! Tickets to the Fireworks Party £21 from 01832 275109, www.oundlefestival.org.uk or from Oundle Tourist Information Centre. Liv Slater
Escape the hustle and take a short walk, come and sample our new
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Recent research by Debenhams revealed that 70% of women are wearing ill-fitting bras. Any concerned women reading this should take my advice by not bothering to wear one in the first place. Problem solved.
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MY FIRST ROAD RIDE… Regular readers of this column will know that after completing my CBT last year, the next stage for me was to convert to riding a motorbike. It started with CAM Rider putting me on a 125cc bike gear conversion course last month, which got me familiar with having to change gears instead of the scooter ‘twist and go’ method. The journey to getting my full bike licence took a major step forward this month when I was allowed out from the CAM Rider off-road training facility and onto the open road. My tutors connected me up with an earpiece so they could instruct me and off I went. After a bit of a wobbly start I soon got used to changing up and down the gearbox like any of us would do in a car – it’s that easy. It’s made all the more easy with encouragement from the CAM Rider instructors who balance their instructions to you with enough ‘quiet’ time for you to relax on a ride and let the bike do the work. Being put in real road situations gave me enough confidence to repeat the things I was good at on the off-road facility, but it also exposed me to areas I needed to work on like slow riding, U-turns and figures of eight. After a thorough lesson with adequate breaks (which included visits to bike showrooms and a burger bar!) I got the hang of pulling away into traffic, overtaking, roundabouts, gradients, box junctions and maintaining / achieving correct road positioning. Anyone who wants to take the leap from the CBT to the 125cc test will need to have passed their motorcycle theory test at least five days before his or her final practical test. CAM Rider provides helmets, gloves, jackets and waterproofs. Next month I’m on the 500cc bike, which they tell me is easier to ride than the smaller bike?! If that’s the case then bring it on… Visit www.camrider.com or email peterborough@camrider.com Call: 01733 320820.
NICE BAGUETTE, SHAME ABOUT MY SNOOKER A big shout to manager of The Q Club in Cowgate, Elaine Crawford, whose scrumptious warm cheese and ham baguette was more memorable than the three frames of snooker I played there recently. The last time I played snooker at the club was back in my juvenile delinquent times of 1990, which is also the last time I saw Elaine. She’s currently offering three for two on snooker and pool (sadly not on baguettes) and a 10% saving when you book online. Call 01733 348939.
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www.espmag.co.uk ( June )
TIME TO ENTER FACE OF ESP! I love June because it’s my birthday (my 30th!) and because women’s outfits begin to get a bit skimpier... I also get excited about June because it’s the start of our search for girls to enter the Face of ESP and once again I’ve been appointed as chief recruiter / talent scout. The city’s most talked about ‘talent’ contest is now in its seventh year and that means Claire Smith is our sixth winner – until September that is, when Face of ESP number seven will grace the cover of this magazine. Entering online couldn’t be simpler, just click on the image on our great new website www.espmag.co.uk and fill in the entry form. This year’s competition is bigger and better in every way with the finals night moving to the larger venue of the Holiday Inn West on Friday September 11. Only criteria you need to qualify is: • Female • Minimum of 18 years-old • Must personify the spirit of ESP • Be from the greater Peterborough area • Available for occasional weekend and evening celebrity work • Understand you’ll be an ambassador for ESP – so be responsible, dedicated, committed and passionate! • Able to handle my dry wit, sarcasm, charm and flirtatiousness for a year. And if I think you’re well fit and can bake, I might well ask for your number… Grab me and I’ll tell you more about the competition and some of the fabulous prizes the winner will enjoy. You can also enter via me personally; as I’ll have a stack of entry forms on me. Remember, you’ve got to be in it to win it!
NIGHT SCENE NEEDS ‘ANOTHER LEVEL’ Last month I laughed off a rumour about The Bar re-opening. This month word is former Another Level boy band member Dane Bowers is moving to Peterborough. It’s difficult to get exited about this one. Unless of course he’s planning to re-open The Bar? He could also boost the night time economy by being a regular face around town, which will bring WAG-like women to the city. It’s simple maths – more birds out = more blokes out = more money spent. Knock yourself out Dane.
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I’ve known Andy Slater since his Lounge Lizard days (loved that retro shop) but it only recently dawned on me he bears a striking resemblance to Shakin Stevens. I’d come to this conclusion after I’d necked a couple of Amarettos (my limit) at last month’s Serpentine Green Ball (see page 34/35). I also concluded that the compere for the evening, my old friend Kev Lawrence, looks a little like Blakey from On The Buses. The one thing my beer goggles didn’t fail me on though, was Kev’s co-compere for the night, Abby – she still looked the same – well fit.
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I’ll probably never get the chance to gloat about beating two of my best ‘competitive’ friends in the Eye 10k so I’m doing it right now and I must admit it feels good. They of course blamed injury and a stitch for their lacklustre performances. Hopefully reading this passage will help motivate them to recording the seven and a bit minute miles I know they are capable of when we contest the Abbey 10k on June 14. In the meantime, unscramble these names to reveal the two slowcoaches I passed to achieve my second personal best in a row: ‘Ptech’ and ‘Drraell’. • • • • •
Members of Fairfield Gentlemen’s Club – see you on the 13th… Jay – how was Brighton? Nice wrapping of my laptop by the way! Phil – u da man! Fancy a frame? ‘Blondie’ – you need your roots doing… Rach & Nigel – make sure there are some single birds at the wedding party • Ian – what happened to the shop?!
SEXY R&B AND FUNKY HOUSE THE BUSIEST AND BEST NIGHT AROUND! 10-3AM
THE BEST COCKTAILS IN STAMFORD Plus BUY 1 GET 1 FREE all bottles ‘til 11pm Double-Up Smirnoff for £1 Live DJ every Wed, Thurs, Fri & Sat Karaoke every Wednesday Every Friday & Saturday after 12pm in brownes:
70s, 80s, 90s & cheese CALL FOR VIP PARTY PACKAGES R.O.A.R – management reserve the right to withdraw promotions and nights without prior notice – over 18s only. Join our Facebook group.
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fashion@espmag.co.uk
LOCALFASHION
Spotting STYLE
Sabrina Rofail Age: 20 From: Whittlesey Wearing: Black and White Top, cardigan and accessories Miss Selfridge Black Pumps Chanel
Jenny Birkby
Queensgate is the place to head for some retail therapy for those living in the Peterborough area, and for some out-of-towners too! ESP’s Becca Evans went style spotting in the centre to find the trendiest shoppers and staff Peterborough has to offer. On a busy Sunday afternoon Queensgate Shopping Centre is bustling with the city’s trendiest people, all hitting the shops to update their wardrobes. But how does Peterborough cut it in the fashion stakes? Well judging by these pictures we’re looking good people! It’s not surprising there are some great looks out there as shopping choice is definitely on the up and the new season’s ranges are all in store. There are 90 shops to choose from with an even wider choice than ever before. The likes of Dorothy Perkins, Burton and Wallis are now all under one roof at Bhs, find names like G Star and Bench in the Republic store, there’s
Laura Burt Age: 18 From: Yaxley Wearing: Check Shirt, Black Vest top, Jean Style Leggings and Boots - Topshop Bangles Accessorize
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www.queensgate-shopping.co.uk ( June )
Age: 24 From: Stanground Wearing: Floral Top, Blue Cardigan, Dark Flared Jeans - New Look
Jane Norman, Miss Selfridge and the split level, flagship River Island store has brought their menswear into the city centre. In the Westgate Arcade you’ll find independent boutiques such as shoe shop RAW and the recently opened Purples selling names like Lipsy and Firetrap, while John Lewis in the centre stocks ranges such as French Connection, Fat Face and Ted Baker.
Bradie Roberts Age: 18 From: Peterborough Wearing: Check Shirt, Dark Skinny Jeans and Studded Black Belt Topman
Take a look at the centre’s new website www.queensgate-shopping.co.uk and sign up for the monthly newsletter to receive updates, offers and prizes.
Natasha Austin
Simone Smith
Age: 23 From: Whittlesey Wearing: Black Floral Dress, Dark Skinny Jeans, Gold Bracelet Topshop
Age: 20 From: Peterborough Wearing: Grey Cardigan, Vest top and Leggings Jane Norman Necklace - New Look
Proudly sponsored by
Jonty Bell Age: 18 From: Huntingdon Wearing: Jeans-Tesco Shoes-Burtons Belt-River Island Shirt-Primark
Lorna Kane
Chris Farmer
Age: 19 From: Stanground Wearing: Black Cardigan and Leopard Print Dress- Warehouse Slouched Tan Boots- Brantano
Age: 18 From: Brampton Wearing: GlassesSpecsavers Purple JumperTopman Jeans and Plimsoles-Next
Callum Morgan
Sheryl Theodore
Matt Gibson
Age: 17 From: St Neots Wearing: Green Tshirt and Rosary Beads -Burtons Jeans, belt, hat and plimsoles -Topman
Age: 22 From: Market Deeping Wearing: Coral Pink Vest- River Island Stone Wash Jeans- Republic
Age: 17 From: Yaxley Wearing: Stonewash jeans, T-shirt and Grey Hooded Top-H&M Belt-Burtons Watch-River Island
Dipesh Thakker
Shizar Shah
Sabrina D'Amore
Age: 19 From: Hampton Wearing: Floral Dress, Gold Skinny Belt and accessories - Top Shop Tan Uggs - Sole Trader Casio Watch - Argos
Age: 17 From: Netherton Wearing: T-shirt H&M Belt - Yanks Jeans - Next Trainers Footlocker
Lauren Baites
Emily Wetherill
Age: 14 From: Donington Wearing: Brown Top, Green Check Shirt New Look Dark Jeans and plimsoles - DP's
Age: 13 From: Spalding Wearing: Leather Jacket - New Look Top/dress, leggings and Green Necklace -Next Blue Patent BeltMiss Selfridge
Age: 17 From: Orton Wearing: White and Black Print top-H&M Bodycon Mini Skirt - H&M Boots and belt - Primark White Head Band - H&M
Bryan Yau Age: 15 From: Longthorpe Wearing: Jacket and Necklaces-Topman T-shirt-Next Jeans-Primark Patent SneakersReebok
www.queensgate-shopping.co.uk ( June )
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SILVER DRESS Price £195
SHOES: MODEL’S OWN
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www.espmag.co.uk ( June )
BEIGE AND CREAM DRESS Price £199
WHITE CLUTCH Price £19.99
CORAL DRESS Price £175
TURQUOISE CLUTCH Price £19.99
SHOES: MODEL’S OWN
joanne.quinney@espmag.co.uk
Belle of the Ball
LOCALFASHION Prom season is upon us which means summer is finally here! Let ESP’s Joanne Quinney guide you through the ball gowns to be seen in this year… Step into a fairytale of beautiful ball gowns and let life be your red carpet… whether you have a work’s summer ball to attend or a Prom, let us give you a sneak peek at the styles all over the dress shops. For full blown glamour opt for a full length gown, a full skirt or fishtail is optional. The detail around the waist creates a gorgeous flattering effect and these styles will suit anyone, although get your
slimming undergarments on for the tighter fitting fishtail style! The 50’s style prom dress is a classic that’s been brought bang up to date with Sex and the City; full volume skirts with gladiator high heels are so now darling! With any style try to choose a colour that suits your skin tone, but the bold and bright jewel colours that are all over the high street look great on many colourings. Rich purple and pretty coral
look lovely on our model, Face of ESP Claire Smith. Or you can go for nude shades; this beautiful caramel dress is a fave! Proms and balls are your chance to shine, so why not go for it and maybe go for an edgier look with chunky accessories and statement heels, or let the detail on the dress speak for itself!
With thanks to The Haycock Hotel (01780 782223) in Wansford and Jan at Fusion (01778 344202) in Market Deeping for supplying the gowns. www.espmag.co.uk ( June )
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PURPLE DRESS Price £180
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www.espmag.co.uk ( June )
Matt
S Zilch T A M F O R DCALLING
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A MONTH OF PREPPING FOR CONFLICTS AND WEDDINGS!! It’s been a hell of a busy month for me this month; I’ve been rehearsing and learning songs for two bands I’m currently in, two bands that are completely in contrast with each other! The first one is cult Punk band Conflict which I was invited to join just before Christmas and who I finally made a début with at The Glasgow Barrowlands on May 23, (last time I was at this venue I was working for dear Amy Winehouse!) The second is my wedding band that I’m finally getting back together, so any of you out there planning on getting married give us a bell at the ESP office and we’ll come make your wedding a great one! Fingers crossed all will be note perfect at the gigs so I can have next month to get back in the flow of the town and bring you my Riverside Fest special next month!
matt.zilch@espmag.co.uk
QUAYHOLE KATES GOES LIVE The legendary Quayhole Kates in Stamford is now holding live music nights and is playing host to March to the Grave on June 12. The club is now into its 20th year as Quayhole Kates and those out there who are even older than me will remember it being the Riverside club for 20 years before that! I’ll finally manage to bring my covers band out of the rehearsal room to play there on June 5.
MY FAMILY RACING FOR LIFE!! I was down at Burghley Park on Sunday May 17 to support all the girlies in my family who were running the Race For Life. Taking part were my mum, aunty Jane, sister Sarah and cousin Emily all doing their bit to raise money for Cancer Research UK.
CANDLESTICKS REVIEW The Candlesticks restaurant is situated in a quiet lane in the oldest part of town. The building itself dates back to around 1730. Originally five empty derelict cottages, they were sympathetically converted and restored in 1974, and Candlesticks opened as a restaurant in 1975 and has been under the same ownership since then. I took my long time friend and mentor Spike T Smith out to sample some of the food the hotel restaurant has to offer. For starter I had the Lobster Bisque (cream of lobster soup) which was excellent, and for the main course, Crevettes (king prawns with garlic & white wine). I’ve had my fair share of king pawns in my time but these really where superb! Both courses were complimented by the lovely wine I had along with it which was Russian River Sauvignon Blanc (I don’t know much about wine, but I know what I like!) Spike had the Potted Shrimp Cocktail to start and his main course was Espada Fish with banana. Finally we had Raspberry and Chocolate Cheesecake and Hot Mixed Fruit Pie as dessert! We also had some glasses of Kendal Jackson Chardonnay which I was told is President Obama’s favourite wine! Overall it was a fantastic meal and manager Nelio was a fantastic host who really knows his stuff about the food and wine! I can highly recommend visiting for a meal for any occasion, be it a first date (like me and Spikey! Ha-Ha - of course I’m joking!). Spike was so impressed he’s planning on having his next Father’s Day out there. Bless the old Punk rocker! Candlesticks, Church Lane, Stamford. Tel: 01780 764033
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www.espmag.co.uk ( June )
Burghley Park was transformed into a sea of pink as around 4,000 women walked, jogged or ran a 5k loop of the grounds. Meanwhile I sat with my sister’s boyfriend Richey having a nice cup of coffee in the pouring rain! There certainly was a great vibe down there and it’s quite moving to see what some of the women running have written on their individual race sheets pinned to their shirts. Finishing the race was an achievement for all who took part and it was an important day for so many, remembering loved ones who’ve lost their lives to cancer. All I can say is – ‘Good on yer girls!’
JANUS STARK RETURN WITH EVERY LITTLE THING COUNTING! Branching out from Stamford for a quick review I felt I just had to do - over to The Met Lounge to see the reformation of Janus Stark for one night only... The band were playing their first show since 2002 and performed 'The Great Adventure Cigar' album in its entirety. Right from the start the lads put on an amazing show and me being such a big fan of the album I was singing along to every tune! It was great to hear classics like ‘Panic Attack’ and ‘Every Little Thing Counts’, but also to hear some very funny and amusing stories that Gizz had to tell about the band from the birth of Janus Stark to him joining the biggest band in the world at the time (I’m sure I don’t need to tell you who that was!). Another thing that really amazes me is how this band is not as big as bands like The Foo Fighters as they certainly had the tunes and the look to do it! The only thing I can put it down to is they were just too ahead of their time. I really hope the lads decide to do some more gigs soon!
June 2009 2nd 70’s night themed Karaoke 8.30pm. Prizes to win.
• Food served daily, Mon – Sat 12pm-2pm and 6pm-9pm. Sun 12 – 5.30pm • Every Tuesday - karaoke 9pm • Every Wednesday - Quiz Night 9.30pm
• Function room available for private parties
5th 6th 12th 13th 19th 20th 25th 26th 27th
Gangsters Red Hot Silly Peppers R n B Band Hooker Sumo Unlimited Open Mic Night White Spirit Frankly My Dear
9 Oundle Road, Fletton,
Peterborough 01733 703495 FAX 01733 757563
• • • • • •
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
All bands subject to change
“THE CLASSIC AWAY FROM IT ALL VENUE JUST 15 MINUTES FROM THE CITY”
Summer events 20th June 26th-28th June 10th-12th July 18th July 25th July 1st Aug 8th Aug 15th Aug 4th-6th Aug
Biker night Shed Weekender Scooter Rally Irish Music Weekend Organic Sounds old skool festival Livestock, free music festival Caribbean day Biker night V.W. Rally Biker Rally
• 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
THE BLUE BOAR EYE
JUNE SPECIAL 2 for 1 on all meals • Home cooked food every day • Value meals from £3.99 • Children’s menu • Sunday lunch 12 -6pm • Real ales, Sky Sports and Setanta • Mondays draught beers from £2.50, spirits, shots and alcopops £1 High St, Eye. Tel: 01733 222234
ENTER NOW… IT COULD BE YOU!
Yes this could be YOUR year to be the new superstar about town - but only if you enter! It’s the competition everyone’s talking about and the search for our new Face of ESP is now officially launched, so get the lip gloss on and send us a pic with the online entry form on www.espmag.co.uk - or look out for entry forms at our sponsors listed below. We’re looking for a girl with personality, who looks after herself and who can really represent the spirit of ESP Magazine. In return we’ll make you a face about town and shower you with fabulous prizes! The prize fund is worth over £5,000 and includes all the hair styling, beauty treatments and pampering you’ll need to look fab for us at all your celebrity appearances as well as shopping sprees, gifts and loads and loads of goodies. Plus, you’ll join the ESP team at all the best events, guest star at openings, balls and special events throughout the year and get to experience more than you can dream of. It’ll be a year to remember so you must be able to commit to the role for the full 12 months. Last year Claire Smith from Helpston was stunned to be chosen after tentatively entering at the last minute but now she’s our gorgeous star representing
FASHION
COSMETIC DENTISTRY
BEAUTY
FITNESS EQPT/SUPPLEMENTS
FAMILY SHOPPING EXPERIENCE
ESP at dozens of events. So far she’s proved she’s game on by attending everything from charity balls to walking 12 miles in the Sue Ryder Care Midnight Walk, abseiling down the Woolies building, featuring in fashion shoots and being interviewed on the radio . The big Face of ESP Finals Night is on Friday September 11 at the fabulous Holiday Inn West in Peterborough and as we’re celebrating our tenth year in business you can bet it’s going to be an extra special night. It could be you stepping into Claire’s high heels, so go on… give it a try! For more details just call 01733 579707 or email: face@espmag.co.uk.
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INSPIRATION Sound and Lighting
TEXTILE CARE
HEALTH and beauty Charlotte Jolly has the ESP guide to what’s hot in health and beauty this month…
FAN-TAN-TASTIC
Stay safe this summer
The shops are full of summer clothes; strappy tops and short shorts, but who wants to wear them with pasty skin? With the summer sun still not quite here why not try some of the latest self tan products to give you that gorgeous naturallooking glow? An all time favourite and the original gradual self-tan is Johnson’s Holiday Skin body lotion. It gives you a subtle and natural sun-kissed look without those telltale streaks. They’ve now even introduced a new formula, Holiday Skin Light Glow, specially designed for fairer types or those who are colour shy. It’s priced around £4.88 from Boots in Queensgate and Serpentine Green Shopping Centre. For an instant tan that can be washed off try Rimmel’s Sun Shimmer, £5.86. It’s available in three shades, light matte, fair matte and fair shimmer and can be used on both the face and body. It gives you a natural looking tan in an instant and is transfer resistant so no-one will ever know. This Shimmer formula adds a lovely luminosity to your skin, ideal for summer evenings. Make sure that you blend it out at the knees and elbows to avoid colour build up. Simply wash off with soap and water! For the ultimate fake tan try St. Tropez Whipped Bronzing Mousse, £20. This selfadjusting mousse is oil-free and compliments everyone’s skin tone leaving you with that perfect post-holiday glow. It’s ideal for the whole body and deepens over three hours so it’s best to apply at night and shower off in the morning. It’s superlightweight and easy to apply leaving you with that all-over even tan you’ve always wanted. Well worth the price.
Don’t risk getting sunburnt this summer. Not only is it extremely dangerous, but it really isn’t a good look! So, make sure you don’t get caught out whether it be on holiday abroad or simply chilling in the garden. Take note of these simple tips to staying safe in the summer sun: 1. Wear an SPF of at least SPF15 every day even if it seems overcast and cloudy. Harmful UVA and UVB rays are still around and can penetrate through clouds easily. 2. After swimming or active sports always reapply immediately after. There are water-resistant products available but it’s better to be safe than sorry. 3. Always wear protective hats, sunglasses and clothing as no sun tan lotion is perfect. Sunglasses are important to protect the delicate eyes from damaging ultra-violet rays and help keep them healthy. 4. Always avoid exposure to the sun and its intense rays between 10am and 4pm when the sun’s energy is greatest. Even in the UK, the midday sun is strong enough to burn. 5. Try to stay in the shade as much as possible. Beach umbrellas and parasols are a good idea but remember they don’t offer full protection. The sun’s rays can still bounce off the sand and water.
HAIR NECESSITIES.... P.Kai at Serpentine Green, Hampton are one of 400 UK independent hairdressing salons participating in Trevor Sorbie’s brilliant new service called ‘My New Hair’, offering to help people experiencing medical hair loss. The programme aims to boost confidence by giving women hair that looks beautifully natural and feminine. Clients can expect to receive help finding a good wig supplier, advice on choosing the right wig and a wig personalisation service in addition to continued support and aftercare. Money raised by ‘My New Hair’ is put to good use by creating awareness of this fantastic service and to buy wigs for women who can’t afford to buy their own. For more details take a look at www.mynewhair.org or simply pop into P.kai hair salon to talk to a trained stylist for further advice and information.
IN NEED OF A QUICK PICK ME UP?
BUY OF THE MONTH…
Then look no further for the perfect solution. The Business Women’s Sector of the Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce is holding a women-only pamper evening on Thursday June 25 at the Deafblind UK Conference Centre in Hampton in support of the charity.
To keep skin soft and radiant, this month’s must buy item has to be Liz Earle’s award winning Cleanse and Polish Hot Cloth Cleanser. It works on every skin type and helps you achieve healthy, beautiful skin - a must have for summer. It deeply cleanses, removing make-up and grime and then polishes the skin using the pure muslin cloth to reveal glowing, luminous skin. It’s made from all natural ingredients including eucalyptus to purify and cocoa butter to soften. Head down to John Lewis in Queensgate shopping centre to bag yours!
Relax and unwind whilst enjoying a wide range of holistic ‘taster treatments’ including back, neck and shoulder massage, aromatherapy, manicures and many more. And for all you shopaholics there’ll also be some retail therapy with beauty products, handbags and jewellery to buy. What more could a girl want? Tickets are just £10 and this fantastic price includes a glass of wine and nibbles plus two 15-minute ‘taster treatments’ of your choice. The evening kicks of at 6pm and finishes at 9pm. In order to book your ticket(s) please call Ange on 01733 358100 or visit the Deafblind UK website www.deafblind.org.uk
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www.espmag.co.uk ( June )
One area for Botox £99 Teeth whitening for £99 LA Face Peel £175 suitable for all skin types Sienna spray tan £15 Models required for hair please phone for details
Top labels including:
Opening times Mon/Wed 9am – 5.30pm Thurs 9am – 8pm Fri 9am – 6.30pm Sat 8.30am – 4pm
Tel: 01733 342111 44 New Road, Peterborough www.ethoshairandbeauty.com
Karen Devine
AS SEEN ON karen.devine@espmag.co.uk
TV GMTV, LK Today and UKTV Style’s ‘Spa of Embarrassing Illnesses’
‘Not tonight dear I have a headache, I’m shattered and have to get up early’… Yes we automatically think of women making up these excuses for the lack of lust but, sorry to highlight this lads but I’m referring to men. Yes, men make these excuses too as like it or not they go through hormonal changes and have that mid life crisis just as women do, but maybe it’s not so obvious and certainly can be a bit of a taboo subject. Male andropause as it’s known hits all men, as much as it hurts that male pride out there, things can and do begin to go south and can take a little bit more encouragement. From the age of about 40 years-old men naturally start to lose a little testosterone each year. Of course how quickly it’s lost can depend on many factors but lifestyle is definitely a major one. For some men these changes are more noticeable from about 50 but there are many influences that can make this problem speed up so the ageing process comes along much quicker for some (early 40’s!). What you put in your body becomes your chemistry so don’t blame what you’re getting out, if you’re ignoring what you’re putting in!
• Weight gain • Irritability • Urinary problems • Night sweats (for some) • Loss in muscle mass… and much more Unlike women who can suddenly find themselves going through the menopause, men tend to go into their hormonal changes much more gradually (women have always said men are much slower!) Without a doubt lifestyle and nutritional status can determine who it will hit first. Some of the worst offenders are 1. Drinking too much alcohol. They say a little alcohol can have benefits but weekend binges leave you in a low mood and fatigued as your poor old liver tries to recover… a grumpy old man in other words! 2. Smoking – blocks those arteries and stops blood flow; you lose essential fats, Vitamin C and Zinc. So, stub it out!
Some of the symptoms of Andropause include –
3. Stress – strips your body of nutrients and interferes with hormones – men tend to bottle it all up.
• Fatigue • Low libido • Depression
4. Lack of good quality protein. Aim to eat good quality fish, chicken or red meat. Avoid those fat filled meats such as sausages, hamburgers etc
unless they’re of high quality meat, they can lead to blocked arteries. 5. Lack of good fats in the diet – oily fish, olive oil, avocado, seeds, nuts – all provide good fats. 6. Lack of fruits and veg – I’m talking a couple of good handfuls of mixed veg each day and eating a couple of apples, it’s not that difficult! 7. Lack of sleep – if you regularly burn the candle at both ends (i.e. weekends not getting to bed till 3am then you never catch up with good regenerative sleep). Lack of sleep can play havoc with hormones and make you age quicker. Now I’m not saying that you hit 40 and get the slippers out, but things do start to change so these are the years that you need to start looking after yourself a bit better. As they say, don’t put off what you can do today, you’re not Peter Pan even though you might think you are! For more information on nutrition and health go to my website www.karendevine.co.uk N.B - if you are experiencing any worrying symptoms such as those listed above always see your GP for advice
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
Sun, Sea and… Mr Smooth? Whilst deciding on this year’s girls’ holiday venue and after consulting our imaginary checklist - somewhere hot, popular but where you’re not likely to bump into half of Peterborough …or else why go away (?), with fun things to do (apart from sunbathing – yawn!) - something dawned on me. Each year, the holiday destination changes but there are some things that remain the same – holiday men. Now, I’m quite open-minded. That’s not to say that I don’t have quite strong opinions on things, however where possible I like to bite my tongue and keep them to myself. I also (where possible) try not to generalise where men are concerned as I can only comment on what I’ve seen* but I am, in writing this, making quite a bold statement and generalisation about the different holiday men you may encounter! Mr Funny – is the first to crack jokes and keeps the holiday fun and interesting. This guy is generally untrusting of women, having been hurt when younger (back when bad boys were a girl’s first choice and Mr Funny was “just a good mate, that’s all – there’s nothing going on”) but he’s generally quite successful with the ladies. He can and does laugh his way into your good books and perhaps (if you are a Samantha from SATC type), joke his way into your holiday, hard mattress and a-thousand-people-have-slepton-this, bed! Funny, funny, funny! Not so funny, funny, funny the next day when you see him on the corner of the beach using the same jokes with another gaggle of girls and not paying you the slightest attention… ‘Uh oh (I hear you cry!) if only I had Susan’s ‘man holiday guide’ then!’ How to spot him – he may be wearing Speedos, fancy dress or a Borat mankini! Mr Shy Guy – is good looking and often mistaken for being arrogant, however he isn’t. He’s this way for one of two reasons – he was either a complete player when he was younger and then changed his ways after hurting someone, or was very studious and had potential when younger but didn’t quite blossom until he was older - thus not realising how good looking he is. This guy, if he becomes comfortable around you is the metaphoric ‘fairground prize goldfish’, the one you win after hooking the right yellow rubber ducks. The catch.
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How to spot him – he’ll laugh along with his mates, but never poke fun at anyone. May be wearing bold coloured, mid-length shorts (opposite to his character). Mr Smooth – is drop-dead gorgeous but reeks of effort – he’s polished to perfection. He has a cocoa butter/carrot oil smooth body and even smoother chat up lines to accompany, Gucci wash bag, very short shorts, aviator brown shades and leather flip flops – designer of course! He is, naturally, very popular with the ladies (some will be chatting him up, some will walk past him 20 times in a bid to get noticed and the others will talk and laugh really loudly on the sun bed next to him – cringe!). He’ll pay you attention if you’re uninterested but this won’t matter as you are, uninterested. How to spot him – very easily! Mr Right – is handsome but humble, funny but not a clown, has a serious side but not intense, has had some conquests but has never treated women badly (that you would know of), well dressed but not overly groomed, masculine but not chauvinistic, friendly without being clingy and charismatic without being a smooth-talking charmer. How to spot him - he’ll perhaps be conservatively dressed in neutral colours or tan enhancing white, yellow or pale pink (swoon) with a nice tan. The only thing is, he’s on a Stag do…. his! Gutted! Now, I’m not a complete cynic when it comes to guys – don’t get me wrong, just a little wary, especially of those on holiday. You can hardly blame me, for example, last year alone I met a ‘scaffolder’ who later turned out not to be a scaffolder (who really cares what job he has? It really makes no odds!), some guys (who I’m still mates with now) who were playing the ‘alphabet game’ (the clue’s in the title and involves girls!), some other guys who had various bets and so on. On the other hand though, my mates and I have met some really lovely guys, the holiday romances, the friends for life and the ‘Stags’. My advice would be – you get what you look for! But if you are uninterested and therefore not looking for the Mr Smooths of this world, he may find you!
Susan’s disclaimer *Not all men are swine bags – just some of them!
An enjoyable stay I
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Park Inn Peterborough is a new hotel in the heart of the city centre Ideally located near cafes, restaurants and clubs Adjacent to main shopping areas with both major high street retailers and individual designer shops Within walking distance of the famous Peterborough Cathedral “Yes I Can” service culture Goldpoints guest loyalty scheme
Accommodation Our new rbg restaurant is now open – rbg offers a versatile menu centred around a stateof-the-art charcoal grill. Signature dishes include choice cuts of steak, enticing chowders, free range chicken and grilled tiger prawns, as well as gourmet burgers. Where possible, produce is sourced from local suppliers.
AMAZINg oFFER:
2 steaks and a bottle of wine
£20 offer available between 1st June – 31st July 2009.
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115 bright and modern guest rooms Business friendly rooms available 9 suites and family rooms 5 wheelchair accessible rooms 24 hour room service and reception Complimentary leisure facilities close by, available to residents (subject to availability)
Meetings I
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3 modern meeting rooms, all on ground floor All rooms with natural daylight Large breakout area adjacent to meeting rooms Modern audio visual equipment
Telephone House, Wentworth St, Peterborough
Tel: 01733 353750 Terms and conditions available at the restaurant
Email: reservations.peterborough@rezidorparkinn.com Web: www.peterborough.parkinn.co.uk
Come on the Blues!
ESP’s Pep Cipriano goes behind the scenes and talks tactics with the officers policing the Posh… Not the words of Darren Ferguson before the big match, but of Chief Inspector Gary Martin, who’d just finished his second briefing to more than 50 officers at police headquarters in Thorpe Wood. Gary’s method of approaching the successful policing of Peterborough United’s final game of the season against Swindon Town couldn’t have been too dissimilar to Darren Ferguson’s. A football manager will set out a plan of action for his team on the day. He’ll discuss tactics and how to deal with what the ‘opposition’ throws at his players. Most of all he would’ve done some homework and been studying the visitors a few weeks in advance. But where the comparisons drift is in the detail. The police recognised the visit of Swindon as a match they’d need to prepare more comprehensively for before the season kicked off. Detailed planning started at the beginning of March where enough intelligence information was gathered to support a ‘grading’ of the event. I reported to Thorpe Wood at 10am on the day of the match to get an insight into the in-depth briefings that ensured the game would go without incident. I was taken aback by the level of planning and contingencies in place plus the fact that 120 officers would be involved! This was no five-minute briefing. Every aspect of the football match from where fans would be drinking before the game to the number of Posh stewards on duty that day was addressed, checked and double checked. With the briefings complete, I tucked into one of the delicious sausage baps the police kitchen had laid on for brekkie before heading to the ground in a police car. As we pulled up I could see officers were already engaging with
fans and the spirit was one of smiles and relaxation, helped of course by the fact Posh were promoted the week before. Once inside the stadium I was escorted to the control room; the heartbeat of the policing operation where all the key ‘players’ in masterminding safety and security were in position. Match commander, Chief Inspector Laura Hunt, was in constant communication with her officers around the ground – it had been an incident free lead-up to kick-off and no alarm bells rang during the opening 45 minutes. Laura called a half time briefing to ensure the event plan was going to schedule and if any pockets of potential unrest needed further surveillance. It was also an opportunity for her to underline the post final whistle procedure. She told me - “Automatic promotion for Posh and Swindon staying up meant the game was more of an occasion of jubilation and celebration. The strength of the partnership the police and football club have built up over the years prevented the customary end of season pitch invasion. We placed officers and stewards between the pitch and the different stands at the ground. The club appeals to supporters before the match, asking them to respect the integrity of the pitch, which means the players can come out again after the final whistle to show their appreciation.” Both the football club and police got the result they wanted at the end of 90 minutes. Posh ended the season with a draw following a late flurry of chances in front of the Swindon goal and the city’s boys in blue made managing an event of more than 10,000 people look like a stroll on the beat. Commander for the day, Chief Inspector Gary Martin was naturally pleased with the outcome and told me - “Policing of the event went very well with few incidents and no trouble. I’d thank the club and the supporters for their help and assistance both during and before the day. I’d also like to take the opportunity to congratulate the club on its success and look forward to working with them again next season.”
0845 456 456 4 www.cambs.police.uk
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Photos: Joe Dent and Pep Cipriano
“Friendly, firm and fair. This is installed in you and by applying these attributes today, we’ll be looking back at another successful result.”
Caught in th OUR NIGHT IN BOURNE… THE SEQUEL Our Paparazzi crew had such a great night out in Bourne recently we just couldn’t squeeze in all the fabulous pics – so that no one’s left disappointed we return with Part 2 of our adventures this time around. What a crowd! Everywhere that Pep, Becca and Jess dropped by they were given such a great welcome as always. Firstly the newly opened Ostlers Bar and café was the freshest face and was packed to the rafters with everyone keen to take a peek. This was formerly Fratellis and the Angel Hotel coffee shop – now it’s a fab café by day and cool cocktail and wine bar by night kicking off the weekend in style on Friday nights. No visit to Bourne is complete without a stop off at Smiths and sure enough the up-for-it crowd were keen to get their mugshots in ESP. Every room and even outside was packed with locals and students on their college break. No matter what room they went into and even outside – Smith’s was booming with people having a drink and a good catch-up over an ice-cold beer. If you head over for a night out of the Boro, The Jubilee is also a good bet and its unique tworoom layout means you can chill downstairs or nip upstairs for a boogie. We always have a good night in this one and the staff are great so make sure you give it a look. If you fancy a change from the city, Bourne is definitely another one you should add to your options for a night out.
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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he act?
Proudly sponsored by
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Caught in the act? Special edition
Serpentine Green
Serpentine Green’s 10th Anniversary Ball Like us here at ESP Magazine, Serpentine Green Shopping Centre is celebrating its tenth anniversary so what better way to celebrate than with a charity ball. When there’s a bash in town we like to be there, so of course we went along to party Mardis Gras style. The Paparazzi crew also dropped by with Pep Cipriano behind the lens and Becca Evans and Susan Saunders danced their way through the carnival style celebrations to snap the action. City councillors, Heart breakfast show presenter Kev Lawrence and other local faces about town were all there enjoying the steel band, casino, disco and other great entertainment at the Holiday Inn West. They’re a good hearted bunch at Serpentine Green so centre manager Dennis Baldry and his team used the night to raise cash for their four chosen charities – “The ball was a great success with everyone enjoying the night, in particular the unexpected performance from the incognito singers! Over £4,000 was raised on the night for four special causes Peterborough Women's Aid, The Royal Anglian Benevolent Fund, The Prostate Cancer Charity and the Alzheimer's Association.” Thanks for a great night guys, we’re still getting over the hangovers!
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n 10th Anniversary Ball
www.espmag.co.uk ( June )
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celebs@espmag.co.uk
ESPCELEBS
britney Spears Feature
Roll up, roll up the ‘Circus’ is coming to town and Britney Spears is the ringmaster extraordinaire as she takes centre stage at the O2 Arena this month. After the media circus that has surrounded this pop princess’ meltdown, comes the comeback tour to prove Britney Spears has the whip out and is regaining control of her life. Looking fantastic and putting on an amazing stage show featuring jugglers, dancers and acrobats you’ve gotta give the girl some credit for pulling it together. Despite viewing her go into freefall over the last few years in graphic detail her popularity with fans seems untouchable. Due to a phenomenal demand for tickets, this global superstar had to add another six dates to her forthcoming UK tour ‘The Circus Starring Britney Spears’ bringing Britney’s residency at the prestigious O2 venue to a total of eight dates kicking off on June 3 and ending on June 14 before heading up to the MEN arena in Manchester on June 17. Having kicked off the tour in the US a few months back she’s been taking a break holidaying with friends and family at Atlantis in the Bahamas. We can’t deny she’s looking hot and ready to knock your socks off at the O2. ‘Circus’ is Britney’s sixth studio album and considering it was released on her birthday it must have been a sweet gift indeed that it become her fastest selling album in the UK to date. It’s a follow-up to her critically acclaimed album, ‘Blackout’ and has seen her work with a stellar group of established producers/writers that include Dr. Luke (who wrote and produced the album's title track, ‘Circus’), Danja, Max Martin, Bloodshy & Avant and Guy Sigsworth (Madonna, Alanis Morissette, Bjork). Incredibly, despite all her personal problems the 27 year-old remains one of the top-selling artists of the last decade and broke the record for making the biggest leap to No.1 on Billboard’s Hot 100 Singles chart when ‘Womanizer’ shot from No. 96 to No.1. For tickets to see Britney live at the O2 in Circus see www.aeglive.co.uk and the 24 – Hour hotline: 0871 230 4422. The album ‘Circus’ is out now. www.britneyspears.com
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Cock Inn W E R R I N G T O N
• Mon Night Biker Nite • Food served Mon - Thur 128pm, Fri-Sun 12pm - 4pm • Thurs Nite Steak Nite • Sunday Roast - £6 • SKY Sports
June 6th 12th 13th 19th
Hooker Lee Major Big Rose Karaoke Taking Care of Business 20th Chill Factor 27th Grumpy Old Men Disco every Friday
•
Car boot last Sunday every month
• • •
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
43 Broadway, Peterborough, PE1 1SQ
1305 Lincoln Road, Werrington, Peterborough
(next to Bombay Brasserie)
TEL: 01733 566777
BRIT CHIX GOT TALENT You’ve probably already met the Brit Chix, but in a very different guise. The girls from Britain’s Got Talent are all promotions girls and are regulars in Boots in Queensgate promoting everything from Dove products to Lynx body sprays. So that’s the day job, but these Punk/Pop girls have high ambitions “We want to be like a new Spice Girls with all that fun and energy,” says Paisley from the band, “a modern day version playing instruments.” Brit Chix are sisters Maddy (23) on bass and ‘T’ (26) on guitar, from Boston, with Paisley (26) originally from Scotland, playing drums. The girls have been together for six years, originally performing as a cabaret act on the holiday centre circuit before eventually deciding to reinvent themselves, write their own songs and tour. So determined were they that they even learned to play their own instruments to save money on a backing band and so the Brit Chix hit the road, playing venues like Peterborough’s Met Lounge to great acclaim, going down a storm and being invited back just a few months later.
THE BRAYS @ THE INDIG02 Once again The Brays are leading the way, through a combination of hard work, great songs and being in the right place at the right time. This isn't good luck. This is planning, this is careful thought toward their collective future as musicians. I'm not saying anyone can follow their lead, you must have the basic talent and material in the first place. But I have seen so many great bands in my time disappear without trace. This doesn't have to be so. You can shorten the odds considerably by having a plan and following it through. Our own Mesh 29 did just that with a carefully orchestrated release of their single to get the maximum impact on release. They eventually got air time on Radio 2 - no mean feat. The Brays took an alternative route. Firstly by building up a firm local fan base, through their video, funded by sponsorship by local business, then moving on to play London venues taking with them each time, a coach load of their fans, and developing a London fan base at the same time. By proving they had a following, they were finally invited to play the O2 arena, on the indigO2 stage last month. It was the chance of a lifetime and although they drew the short straw and had to play first at 6.30pm they made such an impression that I am pleased to announce that they have been asked to play Scala on Saturday July 11 in London as the headline act. This very stage has seen the likes of Coldplay, Foo Fighters, Stereophonics and Robbie Williams headline over the last couple of years! Mike Harris
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Despite having played what they thought was their “worst performance ever” on the show the girls had the audience dancing and won over all three judges on Britain’s Got Talent… even Mr Nasty! “If we could’ve, I think we all would’ve just run away,” says Paisley. “No one can understand just how nerve wracking it is to go out there. “Amanda’s comments were lovely and it was just so surreal when Simon Cowell said he really liked us! We really expected to be booed off!” They’re hugely influenced by Green Day but aren’t serious or political as shown by their equal love of the Spice Girls. They have a more funky image than they portrayed on the TV show, expect five inch heels (always) big hair and “more eyeliner than a beauty counter” as Paisley puts it. If you don’t spot the girls out in Baccara and Edwards you’ll certainly be seeing much more of them up on stage after Britain’s Got Talent. “It’s been the most surreal thing we’ve ever done, everyone’s been so brilliant on the show and we’ve been treated so well. We’ve had an amazing time.” www.britchixrock.com
Lunchtime Offer Mon - Sat 12.00 - 2pm - 3 courses £9.50 Starter: Garlic bread or garlic bread with cheese, served with marinated olives Main: Any pizza or pasta dish Sweet: home made dessert or coffee 175ml glass of red or white wine for only £2.50 Any pizza or pasta dish for £5 available Mon – Fri 12.00 - 2pm
For friends… for romance… for fine food… ... we’re the perfect place to dine!
Express Lunch ½ pizza of your choice from the menu served with mixed salad or chips + soft drink or lager / 125ml House wine only £8.95 Monday – Friday 12 – 2.30pm
36 Cowgate, Peterborough
Tel 01733 344122 www.amicispalding.co.uk
Open Mon - Sat 12 – 2.30pm 5.30pm – till late. Sun 5.30pm – till late
Authentic Italian Cuisine freshly prepared on site. Parties catered for.
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. It’s even been featured in a Brit-flick called ‘Six Bend Trap’ due out soon. 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
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).
one of two separate areas for corporate entertaining. 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 drink 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, June 26, 2009. Programmes available - £1. To receive your voucher for the single admission and pint 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
newspaper. Jack's food was perfect for a three year-old and the huge chocolate dessert – including fudge brownies, Twix, ice-cream, Maltesers to name just a few - was the ideal thing for us chocaholics!” The ‘Two for £8’ offer gives you the chance to enjoy pub classics like steak and kidney pud and sausage and mash as well as dishes such as salmon and Brie fishcakes and chicken pasta alfredo.
It’s deals on meals with the new menu at The Halcyon… There’s a new manager and a new menu at the Halycon in Netherton and as part of the Hungry Horse group these guys know how to serve up hearty portions costing less dosh. Their new ‘Two for £8’ range is bound to be a winner and ESP’s Claire Smith has been along to sample a few favourites. Claire was given £500 to spend at The Halcyon as part of her prize fund when she won the Face of ESP and with their great prices that’s gone a long way, so she’s been happy to share out her winnings with friends and family. “The Halcyon with its revamped look and menu is definitely a place for all the family,” said Claire. “Not only are the meals hearty sizes for both adults and kids, the service was extremely quick and the staff were very friendly. 'I'm a vegetarian and there were quite a few options to choose from and at very reasonable prices. My friends really enjoyed their Fish 'n' Chips especially as it came in a novelty Halcyon
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As a community pub The Halcyon does its best to get you out of the house and away from the TV and the washing up! Mondays are Sizzler Night when you’ll enjoy £1 off steak or chicken dishes plus a free drink. Tuesday it’s free Pool and Wednesdays you can down a curry and a pint for just £4.99. There’s Poker on Thursdays and Sundays and at lunchtime their Sunday Best sees your favourite roasties on offer from just £5.49. As part of the changes they’re also introducing a new kids menu offering a wider variety of options and portion sizes to cater for the little ‘uns and their ever varied appetites! In support of the ‘5 A Day’ campaign they’re also offering free veggies with kids meals – nice one. On Saturdays there’s live entertainment, usually with live bands providing the entertainment but with the odd special night such as the Ibiza themed beach party event on June 13. Coming up, the pub will be staging its second ‘Bands in the Car Park’ event in aid of the children’s ward at PDH on August 30 with a BBQ, stalls and entertainment over the bank holiday weekend. So, it looks like Claire and her mates will have plenty more reasons to visit over the coming months!
The Halcyon Atherstone Avenue, Netherton, Peterborough Tel: 01733 263801
‘A dining experience with a difference’ • Lunchtime Tuesday to Friday – 12pm to 2pm (2 course option)
Opening Hours Tues Wed – Sat Sunday
5.30pm – Late 12pm – 2pm & 5.30pm – Late 12pm – 5pm
• Evening Dinner Tuesday to Saturday - 7.00pm to 10.30pm 3 courses includes coffee & mints £24.95
Please book to avoid disappointment
• 3 course Sunday lunch, includes coffee + mints £18.50 Bookings essential
Embankment Road, Peterborough
The Cherry House Restaurant
Tel 01733 894952
125 Church Street,Werrington, Peterborough 01733 571721
Fathers Day
Sunday 21st June 2009
Treat your dad to a lovely relaxing Sunday lunch at the Kings Head for just £13.75 for two courses Or just bring him and the family out for a hot roast beef roll with horseradish sauce washed down with a pint of real ale or a glass of wine for just £6.50 available in our courtyard bar and gardens.
Pasta La Vista baby!
Friday 26th June
Fantastic pasta menu available, choose any pasta dish followed by homemade Tiramasu or profiteroles and a glass of chilled pinot, rosé or soft drink for children all for £16.50 a head (£5.50 for children). Al la Carte menu and bar menu available as usual.
THE KINGS HEAD, APETHORPE. TEL: 01780 470627
Feature proudly sponsored by
GET ON YOUR BIKE Summer’s here and there’s loads going on for those two wheel lovers in Peterborough this month… It all kicks off with a stage of the big Tour Series – Peterborough’s been chosen as one of 10 cities across the UK to host this high profile cycle race featuring international sports stars. Lasting about an hour, our own mini ‘Tour De France’ style race starts at 7pm on Thursday June 4 and will be filmed for ITV4, showcasing Peterborough’s attractions to about three million TV viewers. Supported by Peterborough City Council and Opportunity Peterborough, Tour Series Peterborough is expected to attract 10,000 into the centre of the city to watch around 50 Olympic and World Championship cyclists compete around a 1.4km circuit (outside the Town Hall, through Cathedral Square, up Church Street and Cowgate and left at the roundabout down Bourges Boulevard and back into Bridge Street again) at speeds of up to 30mph. The event falls in the middle of Green Festival week and a series of associated events are being planned, including local cycle club races, team mascots and children’s races to create a carnival atmosphere. See www.tourseries.co.uk for more info on this one.
Photo: J Bewley Sustrans
The last on the list is the Sustrans ‘Change Your World’ campaign running from Monday June 29 to Saturday July 4. The sustainable transport charity Sustrans are helping people change their world one mile at a time. Join thousands of people across the UK this month and pledge to swap one of your normal car trips to walk, cycle, take public transport or car-share instead.
Following on from the fantastic Tour Series event it’s then Bike Week from June 13 – 21, so come on guys and gals no excuses, get your bike out just for that week and cycle to work or if you can’t manage that at least get out for a ride to the pub! Bike Week, is the UK’s biggest mass participation cycling event, this year challenging families to get more out of life by swapping their four wheels for two and exploring new places. Over half of all car journeys are less than five miles long, so by switching them to an easy thirty minute bike ride, you’ll save money, find new places you didn’t know existed, shrink your carbon footprint and get fit too! Phillip Darnton, Chairman of Cycling England, said - “Many families are looking for easy ways to get more out of life, particularly during these difficult financial times. Cycling brings families together and is a fantastic, free way to explore new places and rides and have a lot of fun. We hope that people will use Bike Week as the perfect opportunity to get back on their bikes and re-connect with their communities.” Bike Week has teamed up with Change4Life, the movement that provides families with helpful hints and tips about how to be more active and less sedentary and promotes cycling as a great way for children to achieve 60 minutes of their recommended daily activity. See www.bikeweek.org.uk. Five reasons to get on your bike: 1. Over half of our car journeys are less than five miles – swapping them for an easy 30 minute bike ride can save you a small fortune in fuel costs 2. Cyclists live on average at least two years longer than non-cyclists and their fitness levels are equivalent to being ten years younger – so forget nip and tuck, think pedal and push! 3. Cycling is the ultimate family activity; it’s free, healthy, fun and encourages children to be independent
All you need to do is swap just one journey this June. Changing one regular journey to a stress-free walking or cycling trip which costs you nothing can have a major effect. If everyone changes just one trip in the last week in June together we can reduce car traffic by more than ten per cent.
4. Cycling gets you out and about and you’re more likely to find that cute little delicatessen or beautiful park you never knew existed than when you’re cooped up in a car
To make your swap, sign up online at www.changeyourworld.org.uk and swap that trip in the last week of June.
5. In a hurry? During rush-hour, a bicycle is twice as fast as a car - good if you hate traffic jams! Even better, you won’t spend a penny on parking.
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www.espmag.co.uk ( June )
SOMETHING FOR THE WEEKEND, SIR? The weather men are forecasting a long hot summer this year. So what better time to take your top off and drive sexy with the brand new Peugeot 308cc, just like our Face of ESP Claire Smith.
“With a combination of fantastic build quality and innovative technology, we have a product that will challenge buyers from more Premium/Executive segments,” says sales manager Shaun Pluck.
Claire will have two weekends away in the fantastic new 308cc, which has just been launched this month, courtesy of Marshall Peugeot. It’s another of her wonderful range of prizes for winning the Face of ESP and we’re just a little bit jealous!
Claire loved the gadgets and Peugeot have introduced the ‘Heat Scarf’ – an Airwave neck heating system. This diffuses warm air around your neck from the head restraints to enable cabriolet driving all year round!
These little beauties start from £19,495 for the 1.6 Sport and we’re loving this gorgeous blue paint job! Claire says she’s looking forward to hitting the open road for some girlie weekends “I was absolutely gob smacked when I realised I was going to be loaned a brand new four seater convertable and for two whole weekends. The car is gorgeous, and I am going to love having the lid down due to the fancy heaters on the back of your neck!. I feel a Thelma and Louise coming on...” Peugeot have a fantastic heritage of producing cabriolets. After the successes of the 206cc, 207cc and 307cc they’ve now raised the bar to a whole new level with the introduction of this stunning new model.
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The 308cc has achieved a five star NCAP safety rating with its roll over protection system, Electronic Stability Programme across the range and six airbags including two head side airbags - only the 308cc and Porsche Carrera have this feature. Shaun added – “We at Marshall Peugeot are proud to support ESP Magazine and look forward to providing Claire with the use of our stunning new model. They are certainly well matched!” Fancy one? Well, there’s a fantastic promotional offer of 0% finance over four years across the whole range! (Subject to minimum 25% deposit, terms and conditions apply).
Peugeot’s new Heat Scarf - an Airwave neck heating system
DEALER OFFER Buy before the end of June and Marshall Peugeot will provide a 5yr/50,000 service plan free of charge. That’s up to four standard services and you won’t pay a penny!
Marshall Peugeot Tyrell Park, Boongate, Peterborough Tel: 0844 334 0715 www.marshallweb.co.uk
PERFECT TEN … SUCCESS STORIES
Donna Steele
ACTRESS
From the Key Youth Theatre to the bright lights of the West End, Sharon McAllister talks to actress Donna Steele, the city’s stage star success story. With the reality TV rollercoaster showing no signs of slowing down and the search for everything from a new pop sensation to a stage star being acted out on prime time tele, actress Donna Steele reckons it’s the likes of the Key Youth Theatre that really deserve some credit. “Peterborough really has something great for nurturing talent. My training there was my grounding, it’s been amazing. The talent they’re bringing out of young people now is just incredible.” The former Kings School head girl, now 32 and a successful stage star, is currently on a national tour and has appeared in a series of great shows since she started out as a child actress in Peterborough. Among her many performances to date Donna was given her big break as Amanda Holden’s understudy in ‘Thoroughly Modern Millie’ in which she ended up taking centre stage when Amanda was taken ill for several weeks. She was the understudy in ‘Peggy Sue Got Married’ – “a great learning curve” appeared in ‘Babes in Arms’ with Lorna Luft “Singing in front of Judy Garland’s daughter in this was just surreal” – and recently toured in the 60s inspired musical ‘Shout’ with Sue Pollard and Claire Sweeney. “It’s been wonderful to work with people who’ve been in the business so long,” she says. “Sue Pollard is the most genuine person, we speak every
other day and she’s such a wonderful, nice lady.” Donna hit it off so well with Claire Sweeney they’re even sharing a house together! At the moment she’s on tour and receiving rave reviews for her portrayals of Mae West and Al Jolson’s several wives in ‘Jolson & Co’ with Allan Stewart, which she says is one of her most challenging but rewarding parts yet. “Jolson is the one I think I’m most proud of, I’m surprised to say. This part and the cast are a dream come true. I’m the only female and play eight different parts. I’m very lucky that I’m quite a physical actress. “I only sing one song and do one tap dance routine, everything else is pure acting and that’s what really floats my boat. It’s more cathartic, you can vent out different personalities. Millie was huge but this is more taxing mentally.” Since appearing in a variety of Key Theatre roles and gaining her degree at the Liverpool Institute for the Performing Arts (LIPA) Donna knows she’s fortunate to be mixing with some great talent and to be living the dream. She recounts a tale of one of the workshops for ‘We Will Rock You’ which had to be performed in front of a variety of stars, theatre big wigs and financial backers only to hear that Robert De Niro was in the audience. “I had this massive comedy scene where the timing had to be just right and I thought ‘I can’t act in front of Robert De Niro!’. Afterwards though, he came over, shook my hand and said ‘you were outstanding and I couldn’t take my eyes off you’ – I just burbled something incomprehensible I was so
stunned. Some of the experiences are just marvellous.” These days it seems as though reality shows like the search for a new Joseph or a new Maria are the way to the top, but Donna has her reservations. “I’ll take my hat off to anyone who’ll stand there and be criticised but I wouldn’t do it and in a way now I’d hope I wouldn’t have to. Ultimately though, sudden TV success can quickly fade and beyond that she says you need the basics. “My advice is to get as much grounding as you can but be realistic, it’s a very hard profession living out of a suitcase and not knowing where your next pay cheque is coming from. Take advice from others in the industry and respect others with more experience. Don’t think you’re the next big thing – be humble. “KYT was invaluable training. When I went to do my degree course much of what I was taught I’d learned five years before with Derek Killeen and Michael Cross. Now Paul Crosby is doing a wonderful job and it’s great they have someone there with genuine experience.” Donna’s regularly back in the Boro seeing her family and friends and of course dropping by the Key Theatre, but hopefully we’ll be seeing far more of her on stage and beyond. “I’d like to work with Julie Walters, she’s a legend. This is a career choice now, a life choice. I’d like to move into TV but would like a West End lead of my own one day. It’s all about being in the right place at the right time.”
... Next month we catch up with another local success story.
...and you’ll never see it again unless you apply now!
Sales Account Executive £8/Hr, will consider 20 – 35 hours/week + UNCAPPEd CoMMISSIoN + AddITIoNAL BENEFITS. We are looking for an additional Sales Account Executive for a permanent position. Our current sales staff work 20 hrs/week and earn around £18k pa including commission - we want you to challenge that! You need to have a proven track record in sales, be able to generate your own leads, have a professional telephone manner and excellent computer/keyboard skills. You will work from our office and in the field.
Editorial admin assistant £5.73 - £6 per hour dependant on experience 20 hrs/wk between Mon-Fri, 9am - 5.30pm (some flexibility on times). This is approximately a four month appointment, although consideration may be given to a permanent role after that date. You will liaise with clients to agree copy requirements and must be competent in MS Office, hold a full driving licence and preferably have access to your own car.
Please request an application form, by emailing jobs@espmag.co.uk (preferred) or by telephoning 01733 579707. We regret we are unable to accept CVs. Closing date for both positions is Thursday June 11 2009, 5pm.
ESP Magazine Ltd, PO Box 431 Peterborough PE6 7FG
CHRISTIAN Bale recently said he fears “that rant” – in which he inexplicably lost his temper at a crew member in a foul-mouthed four minute audio-taped tirade – will overshadow the release of the movie. Fortunately ‘Terminator’ is a big enough name thanks to James Cameron to even take the limelight from ‘The Dark Knight’ actor’s burgeoning ego. Set in post-apocalyptic 2018, he stars as the infamous John Connor, the man fated to lead the human resistance against Skynet and its army of (currently fledgling) Terminators.
Game On
The curve ball is thrown by stranger Marcus Wright (played by new Aussie star talent Sam Worthington), whose last memory was of death
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row – changing Connor’s perception of the future. A Linda Hamilton voiceover is also thrown in for ‘fanboy’ continuity. My fingers are seriously crossed for this one, but unfortunately mixed early reviews are filtering through – and it’s directed by the man behind the Charlie’s Angels reboot. And he’s called McG . . . WHILST the start of a modern-era ‘Terminator’ trilogy is shrouded in box-office uncertainty – the ‘Transformers’ sequel should have no such worries. It could quite easily be the biggest movie of the summer with bigger, meaner – and pink female – robots thrown into Michael Bay’s cash registerringing, franchise mixing pot.
LEFT 4 DEAD: GAME OF THE YEAR EDITION
Steven Spielberg is again on executive producer duties as Shia LeBeouf and eye-candy Megan Fox reprise their roles as the Autobots team-up with the military to take on the re-grouped Decepticons – with ultimate robotic villain The Fallen menacingly pulling the strings. Again, the story is centred on LeBeouf’s now college-bound Sam Witwicky, who discovers the history of the Transformers’ Earth origins after receiving visions from the remaining piece of the Allspark – and those pesky Decepticons want to capture him for the info. With the hype surrounding the sequel (a la ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’) the “robots in disguise” should quite comfortably smash the $100 million barrier come opening weekend Stateside whether it’s below-par or not . . .
THE CHRONICLES OF RIDDICK:
ASSAULT ON DARK ATHENA
(X360/PC) Out Now
(X360/PS3/PC) Out Now
This multi-award winning game has been re-released to appeal to gamers – like myself – who may have missed it amidst the flurry of great shooters released late last year.
For a great value first-person shooter you could do far worse than this generous ‘two for the price of one’ sci-fi movie tie-in – with arguably some of the best graphics seen on a next-gen console.
With the Survival Pack downloadable content thrown-in, this multiplayer sensation – from the makers of my favourite gaming pack of all time ‘Half-Life 2: The Orange Box’ – doesn’t pretend to have the best graphics or weaponry, but just provides intense hordes of zombie blood-splattering fun.
‘Assault on Dark Athena’ builds on the success of 2004’s Xbox hit ‘Escape from Butcher Bay’, which has also been spruced-up and thrown in to the package, with an atmospheric experience (coupled with great Vin Diesel voicework) that ticks a lot of the right boxes, particularly with some kick ‘ass weapons on hand.
You can see why it has notched so many awards (albeit mainly for its addictive multiplayer content), but – despite an original moviestyle element – it doesn’t quite satisfy with its repetitive single-player campaigns. For on-line enthusiasts though, it plays like a dream, or should I say an enjoyable nightmare.
Unfortunately confusing ‘backtracking’ issues, FPS-to-stealth flaws and an uneven difficulty curve prevents the game from reaching the heights of other genre-defining games – but it’s still a noteworthy entry that’s best played in ‘pitch black’.
###
#### * Thanks to Ian Hilling for helping playtest some of this month’s titles.
FACTFILE
BATTLE OF THE ROBOTS - TALE
OF THE TAPE:
Terminator: Salvation Released: June 3 New Robots: T-600/700, Aer ostats, Hydrobots, Harvesters Returning Robots: Rumour ed computer-generated Arnie as a T-800 Model 101 Actors: Christian Bale, Sam Worthington, Bryce Dallas How ard Director: McG Franchise (inc worldwide gro sses): THE TERMINATOR (1984) ## ### $78.4million T2: JUDGMENT DAY (1991) ##### $519.8million T3: RISE OF THE MACHINE S (2003) ##### $433.4m illion Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen Released: June 19 New Robots: Jetfire, Soundw ave, Arcee, Devastator Returning Robots: Optimu s Prime, Megatron, Bumblebee, Sta rscream Actors: Shia LeBeouf, Meg an Fox, Josh Duhamel, Tyrese Gibson Director: Michael Bay Franchise (inc worldwide gro sses): TRANSFORMERS (2007) ## ### $708.3million
YEAR ONE Released: June 19 Jack Black and ‘Superbad’s’ Michael Cera aim to snare the summer comedy plaudits in this ancient adventure based on two lazy huntergatherers banished from their primitive village. Under the direction of ‘Groundhog Day’s’ Harold Ramis, comedic mishaps will undoubtedly ensue as the duo partake in an epic journey bumping into the likes of Paul Rudd (‘Role Models’), and our own Vinnie Jones (who I’m sure will be perfectly at home), along the way.
REVIEW
THE WRESTLER Released: June 1 (also on Blu-Ray) One of the ‘John Travolta’ style movie success stories of the year sees the return from relative obscurity of eighties Hollywood heartthrob Mickey Rourke. Much like the ‘Grease’ star rejuvenated his career in ‘Pulp Fiction’, ‘9 ½ Weeks’ star Rourke has won nearly every acting award going – and notched a Best Actor Oscar nomination – by powerslamming his way back to the bigtime in the excellent drama ‘The Wrestler’.
gavin.miller@espmag.co.uk
SCREENSCENE UFC 2009: UNDISPUTED (X360/PS3) Out Now For a new gaming franchise in its infancy Ultimate Fighting Championship fans couldn’t have wished for a lot more from the publisher behind ‘Smackdown vs. Raw’. The inaugural ‘UFC’ game provides a deep roster of more than 80 combatants across five weight classes and a variety of mixed martial arts disciplines – and just like ‘SvR ‘09’ the fighter graphics are breathtakingly photorealistic. The controls do take a bit of getting used to (a tutorial guide helps), but once fans of the Octagon get to grips with them they’ll be truly satisfied with the exhibition, career and create-a-fighter modes at their disposal. It’s hampered by some expected teething problems – accurate speed, in-game submissions and a clumsy menu interface could be better (which is offset by the great pre-fight presentation) – but this could quite easily do for UFC what EA’s ‘Fight Night’ series has done for boxing in the gaming world. On this occasion it provides an impressive first TKO.
Even though he kind of made a comeback in 2005’s ‘Sin City’, he quickly faded from the limelight again, but his exhilarating performance as washedup “over-the-hill” wrestler Randy ‘The Ram’ Robinson has truly kickstarted his career – now leading to roles in Sly Stallone’s highly ‘fanboy’ anticipated mercenary actioner ‘The Expendables’ and as lead villain Whiplash in next year’s expected-summer blockbuster ‘Iron Man 2’. You can’t help but feel sorry for his character, who spends his weeks doing menial jobs on minimum wage – seeing most of his money going on steroids, booze and tanning salons in an attempt to reach his former glory – then spending the weekends slicing his face open in the name of choreographed entertainment on the wrestling ‘indie’ scene. His only friend in the world is a stripper called Cassidy – another stand-out performance by the always competent Marisa Tomei – as he tries to repair his relationship with the daughter (Evan Rachel Wood) he abandoned. The film itself won’t be everyone’s cup-of-tea and the father/daughter substory could have been a bit more fleshed out – but the bizarre choice of ‘Requiem For a Dream’ helmer Darren Aronofsky dipping his hand into the world of spandex-tights sports entertainment pays off, and then some. Quotable WWE references like - “If ya smell what Rourke is cookin’!” or “That’s the bottom line coz Rourke said so!” - simply wouldn’t do his performance justice as Mickey’s portrayal is sadly closer to the so-called ‘grim reaper of wrestling’ than some may think. Heart-wrenching cinema at its finest – and by the way, he should have won the Oscar. ####
#### All release dates are correct at the time of going to press
www.espmag.co.uk ( June )
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Steve Gonzalez
steve.gonzalez@espmag.co.uk
c
The page that can’t wait for the Jade Goody memorial fountain to be opened in Cathedral Square.
What can people expect from your new stand up show ? Is it going to be straight stand up as you've done before, or does the show have a specific theme? “The theme as ever is myself. Stand-up for me is a very personal medium. By and large you find yourself basing most lines and routines on things that have actually happened to you, feelings you have towards others, attitudes and reactions to the world around you. Essentially it's the comedian's role to put into words what everybody else is thinking.” When I last saw you perform, for the encore you came back out and started singing some of the 'My Lovely Horse' song from 'Father Ted'. Are you planning any other Father Ted stuff this time around? I'd love to see you come back out on stage dressed in a matador outfit, or perhaps do the ‘three stages of Elvis’. Any thoughts? “I only wear the matador stuff in the privacy of my own home. In the past I occasionally did ‘My Lovely Horse’ as an encore because I was conscious that a lot of the audience were Father Ted fans. But generally I try and make a clear distinction between the stand-up persona and TV characters.”
HELLO ARDAL The best gig of the month for me has to be Ardal O’Hanlon at The Cresset on June 20. The award winning comedian and actor who you’ll know best from ‘Father Ted’, ‘Blessed’ and ‘My Hero’ does a cracking stand up show and it’s great to be able to see him live in Peterborough. Soon you’ll be able to see him on the big screen too in a new film called ‘Wide Open Spaces’ and he’s currently writing a play for a leading International theatre - as well as developing work for television. He’s recently been working in China and I managed to grab a word… What are you up to in China ? Are you allowed to tell us what you're working on out there and when will we be able to see it over here? “It's no secret. I'm actually doing a mini stand-up tour of China. I'm not a spy, honest. In fact I have spent most of this year to date playing in far-flung places - US, Middle East, French Alps and now Peterborough.”
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I understand you've recently made a film with Dylan Moran called 'Wide Open Spaces' that was written by Arthur Matthews. What's it about, and when's it likely to be out? “Sadly Dylan is not in it. It's a bleak comedy featuring Ewen Bremner and I as a pair of misfits who end up working in a Famine Theme Park in Ireland. It should be released this autumn. (I am, as it happens doing a short tour of the US with Dylan Moran and Tommy Tiernan in June!)” I enjoyed your role as a 'sleazy' teacher in the recent series of 'Skins' (Luke Pasqualino who's Freddie in the show comes from Peterborough). As a comedy actor do you enjoy playing roles that are completely different to ones people are used to seeing you in from 'Father Ted' and 'My Hero'? “Definitely. Skins is great from that point of view. They make a virtue of comedians playing against type.”
d
Richard E Grant tells a story about being on holiday in a remote village in France with his family when all of a sudden a car drives past and someone yells a line from Withnail and I "Scrubbers!". What's the most unusual place where you've been recognised? “At a football match in Istanbul, this guy who worked for the Turkish FA declared himself my biggest fan and insisted I join his family for dinner.”
Catch Ardal live at the Cresset in Bretton on Saturday June 20. Tickets are £15 on 01733 265705.
AND IT’S POSH WEE ARE I've been enjoying some of the comments and reaction to POSH winning promotion to The Championship next season. Former Face of ESP Kerry Bates has being going out with midfielder Chris Whelpdale for the last two years and updated her Facebook status the night Posh clinched promotion with - “I was so excited I nearly weed my pants.” Someone else who got caught up in the excitement was Jeff Stelling on Sky Sports Soccer Saturday who could see pictures of Darren Ferguson on the pitch at Colchester shrugging his shoulders and trying to find out the score at the MK Dons match. “What's happening? Peterborough have won 1-0 but Darren Ferguson doesn't know if his team have been promoted yet, but I can tell you MK Dons have lost. DARREN YOU CAN'T HEAR ME, BUT YOU'VE BEEN PROMOTED!” Then on Radio Cambs, they grabbed a word with chariman Darragh MacAnthony and when they asked him about plans to strengthen the squad next season he joked - “Yeah, I suppose I'll have to sell another one of me sports cars.” Great stuff.
THE FALL AND DEMISE OF MARTIN CLUNES So, did you see Martin Clunes in 'Reggie Perrin'? Bad wasn't it. What on earth was he thinking when he agreed to it? Did he think 'Yeah, because Leonard Rossiter never really nailed the part in the original 70's series, best I show everyone how it's done’? What's he going to do next? Remake Porridge with Neil Morrissey as 'Godber' and him as 'Norman Stanley Fletcher'? If the BBC are going to let him ruin one classic British sitcom from the 1970's, they might as well let him ruin them all. Come on, let's see him have a go at being Captain Mainwarring in 'Dad's Army' or how about 'Fawlty Towers'? He could grow a moustache and play Basil with Caroline Quentin as Sybil. Alternatively, he could grow a pair of balls, tell the BBC what a rubbish idea remaking any 'classic' sitcom is and go back to being in a twee ITV Sunday night drama where he ponces around being a bland rural Doctor with a heart of gold.
STANDOUTSTANDUP STAMFORD COMEDY CLUB My Edinburgh Festival flatmate, Patrick Monahan will be doing some stand up at The Stamford Arts Centre on Friday June 19 at 8pm. I've been on at Alan who organises these nights to get him down there for the last two years and I'm delighted he's finally pulled his finger out rather than spending all his spare time reading The Guardian. Pat's just spent the last few months doing warm-up on Paul O'Grady's chat show and also got to appear on air a few times, most notably when he had to pretend to be 'Charlie Chaplin' in a sketch with Paul Merton. Anyway, it'd be great to see the Arts Centre packed out for this one. For those of you who haven't seen Patrick when he's played in Peterborough before, you're in for a treat. If that's not convinced you then take a look at some of his clips on YouTube. If you're going, I'll see you there. Box office: 01780 763203.
LIVE @ THE LOUNGE There’s a new series of city centre comedy nights starting up at the Sports Lounge on Kings Street. Already busy with sports fans the guys now hope to attract comedy fans on the first Friday of each month with some of the top comedians touring the circuit. The first Live @ The Lounge Stand Up Comedy Night is on June 5 with Matt Kirshen – the top 10 finalist from NBC’s reality show ‘Last Comic Standing’ who’s been described as ‘excellent’ by The Stage and ‘A pocket sized dynamo’ by The Evening Standard. Then there’s Steve N Allen, a regular at venues like the Comedy Store who writes for radio along with hot newcomer Joel Dommett, three times winner of the Comedy Café’s New Act competition with compere for the night Roddy Fraiser. It’s good to see comedy back in the centre so give it a try – tickets are £8 in advance and £10 on the door. Call 01733 688434 to book.
Andy Slater’s
andy.slater@espmag.co.uk
Tudor headline the weekend and you also have DJ’s, a foam party and bronco babes. It sounds like a right old time - click on www.shedmag.com for booking info. It’s on the weekend of June 26-28, just after pay day.
Oysterband
The great British summer is upon us and in fields around Britain people are pitching their tents and watching great bands whilst basking in the glorious sunshine. Oh alright, not quite like that but I did manage to get my awning up recently without getting precipitated on, in fact I did it in shirt sleeves. However, come the end of the weekend we got drenched taking it down which is always the case it seems, weekend over, get soaked, go home. Still, not as bad as what happened at The Bearded Theory up in Derbyshire where a freak gust of wind, typhoon like by all accounts, blew the stage to bits. Unfortunately a few good folk got injured but the festival carried on. The irony in my warped mind was that the band Hawkwind where headlining! Get it …no??? Just me then. Next year they’ve decided against Thunder or The Rainmakers and are looking at the possibility of Sonny Boy Williamson Jr or KC and the Sunshine Band (sorry Sal had to have a tease!). What did I say last month about Cambridge Folk Festival selling quick? Well all the online tickets went in one hour 45 minutes! That was 60% of the allocation, apparently 50,000 logged on at 9am to secure their place. To me just more reason to move it to a bigger site and increase the capacity.
The other issue that this drags up is Ebay. I bet the auction site will be loused out with Cambridge tickets - isn’t it time that Ebay refused to list any concert/festival tickets?
The Beat
Anything we can do to make it harder for the touts and profiteers screwing money out of the real fan must be a help. If memory serves me right they stopped listing Glastonbury tickets before the picture thing so why not all tickets? Go on - someone do one of them Facebook group things, I don’t know how to! So where are the good festivals next, well last month I mentioned Big Session at Leicester with the Levellers and The Oysterband, that’s definitely worth a look www.bigsessionfestival.co.uk Over at The Plough in Farcet Fen, whose set up has improved again this year, Shed 5 weekender looks like a good old Scooter cum Mod weekend. Great bands too, The Cockney Rejects, The Beat and Ed Tenpole
Not so much live music, but worth a mention because of the enormity of it, Dance Island over at Ely is worth its weight in gold if dance and electronic is your bag. Big names like Chicane, Pendulum, Utah Saints, Altern8 and Public Domain play alongside Radio 1 favourites like Danny Rampling and Dave Pearce. Tickets for the event which is on July 4 are £42.50 and available from HMV in Peterborough, on 0870 020 1599 or from www.dance-island.com The great free festival of June is the Strawberry Fair on June 6 on Midsummer Common, Cambridge. As always the organisers are keeping the line up secret until the day. Generally you tend to find the odd name mixed with a lot of music which will be new to your lug holes but generally good. For more info www.strawberry-fair.org.uk There are times at a festival when you want to get away from the noise and collapse by your tent with a good book, well may I suggest the Big Chills Guide to Summer Living, it’s a great source for festival info, drinks, food and most of all silly games to play in those drunken moments. It also has a good month by month festival listing and a section on how to predict the weather by looking to see how low swallows and swifts are flying. Bizarre but well written and fun to read! Great for those quieter moments and it’s available from Amazon for £12.99. OK I’m off to dry my awning out ready for next weekend…
‘TEXT ME’ COMPETITION
WIN TICKETS TO THE BIG SESSION WORTH £75 EACH 52
www.espmag.co.uk ( June )
We have two pairs of weekend tickets with camping (if required) for the Big Session Festival at Leicester’s De Montfort Hall and Gardens on June 19, 20 and 21 with names like Billy Bragg, Eliza Carthy, the Oysterband and Adrian Edmonson and the Bad Shepherds among many, many more. To get your name in the bag, text or email us the word SESSION along with your name, age address and telephone number and it could be you winning a couple of festival freebies! For more detail about the festival see www.bigsessionfestival.com or call 0116 233 3111. Usual competition rules apply, winners will be notified, entries must be in by 12/06/09.
TEXT HOTLINE
07762 147679 email: competition@espmag.co.uk
andy.whittaker@espmag.co.uk
LIVEMUSIC Peterborough in May to an overspilling venue and are set to continue touring the album throughout the UK during the summer, with over 25 dates already confirmed. If you’ve not yet heard the new songs, please do go and see Opaque play at Mama Liz’s in Stamford on Friday June 12. For samples of the album and details on where to buy it, head to their web pages. www.myspace.com/bandopaque Review
TOP SECRET
THE RANDALL ROOTZ FESTIVAL MK3 A jam-packed line-up of bands has been announced for Peterborough’s Randall Rootz Festival, which will be another under the banner of ESP’s ‘Perfect Ten’ series. More than 20 acts are scheduled to perform over the three days to raise cash for Sue Ryder Care. The headliner for the opening night remains a closely guarded secret, but organisers have confirmed that it is a ‘household name’ and that they’ve had ‘several top ten albums as well as numerous singles in the UK charts’. The festival committee are set to reveal the name of the band on June 15 - two weeks before tickets go on sale. Meanwhile, acts already confirmed for the festival, which takes place on August 14, 15 and 16, include outfits hailing from as far afield as the Ukraine, Spain and South Africa. There’s a full list on the website but some of the confirmed line-up includes: Kissmet (Bhangra/rock fusion), The Huxleys (acoustic/pop/blues), Stolen Knomes (Irish/flemenco), King Kool (rock/blues), Heather McVey (acoustic/dance/chill), The Brackets (indie/rock), Chris Watson (jazz/blues), The Dead Rabbits (Pogues tribute), Opaque (alternative/acoustic/indie), Angryman (acoustic/roots), Icons Of The Brave (indie/rock), The Malingerers (oldtime country/blues), Oka Vanga (flamenco/folk), Lexie Green (country/blues) and The Claddah Band (Irish traditional). This is the third annual Randall Rootz Festival, which will open at The
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Brewery Tap in Westgate, Peterborough city centre, on the Friday before moving across town to Charters pub and beer garden on Town Bridge for the Saturday and Sunday free events. The festival was launched in 2007 by a committee of friends and family in memory of talented city percussionist Mark Randall, who sadly died from cancer at Thorpe Hall Hospice in February that year, aged 34. In keeping with Mark’s passion for music, community and diversity the festival also includes performance poetry, arts, family-entertainment and environmentally-inspired workshops. Details of tickets and availability for the Friday night event and news of the headlining act will be announced through the website.
OPAQUE CD LAUNCH GIG Local troubadours Opaque, have always (in my opinion) been one of the best originals bands on the local scene for quite a few years, and when their first album ‘The Last Moustache’ was released in 2007, they stamped their mark with a unique mix of songs and sounds. However, there was always an underlying naivety in their recordings which felt very frustrating or very endearing... depending on which side of the fence you sat. Their new album, ‘Break the Circle’, has seen the boys grow up musically and lyrically and should definitely be a defining moment in their growing careers. Now signed to the same label as Dragon’s Den success story, Hamfatter, Opaque launched their new album at The Glass Onion in
CITY MUSIC FAIR The City Club in Priestgate is hosting a music fair from midday on Saturday June 27, selling Vinyl LP’s and 7” Singles covering all genres such as Metal, Indie, Punk, Funk, Northern Soul, Psych, Beat, Jazz and Prog Rock. DJ’s will also be playing an eclectic mix of tracks and the organisers are hoping the event will develop into a bit of Camden coming to Peterborough and eventually include live bands. “The idea is to attract vi-curious teens, emos and chavs to the party and lose the image of music fairs being full of dull, middle-aged anoraks looking for that elusive 78,” said the music fair spokesman. www.cityclubuk.co.uk
www.randallrootz.org www.myspace.com/randallrootz
HALCYON DAZE ARE GONE
ROCKABILLY ROCKS IN BOURNE Local Rockabilly legends The Houndogs along with support from Carmen Ghia & The Hotrods are putting on a show at The Bourne Corn Exchange on Friday June 19 as part of a UK wide tour called Rockabilly Revue. This promises to be a stunning night out, with two great bands, a DJ and a suitably large dance floor. The guys are promising to put on a memorable performance and Robert Wilson from the band told ESP "This is gonna be a very special night for all our fans and will be one to remember! Don’t miss it!"
Classic Rock/Pop covers band, Halcyon Daze have changed their name to SHAMELESS… possibly as part of a major tax dodge, or more likely because they’re a bunch of shameless attention seekers that still know how to play great music and put on a hell of a show. Either way, be sure to catch them performing soon, either at The Bourne Festival on Sunday June 7, or The Bluebell in Dogsthorpe, Peterborough on Friday June 12 or later in the month at the Westwood Herald Club, Wicken Way, Peterborough on Saturday June 27. For more info:
Doors open at 7.30pm and tickets are £8 in advance or £10 on the door.
www.myspace.com/shamelessgroup
www.bournecornexchange.co.uk
RIVERSIDE DINING - BLUES, BREWS AND FINE VIEWS
Members Club New members welcome
• Relax by the river in the largest beer garden in the City Centre • Traditional ciders • Extensive range of Belgian / Continental Beers, Whisky and Wine
Live Music June 6th
Soul Providers
13th 20th 27th
Overdubs Euphoria Unlimited
Admission £2 – members free Admission £2 – members free
Saturday 6th June Sarah Warren Band Sunday 7th June SUMMER SUNDAYS
Citizen Smith and friends - music from 3pm
Admission £2 – members free Admission £2 – members free
Also
A selection of fine real ales Darts, dominoes, crib, snooker and pool also available
Grove Street, Peterborough Tel: 01733 567352 Function room available for party hire (not Saturdays)
Town Bridge, Peterborough
01733 315700 www.oakhamales.com
June sale - buy one DVD get one FREE
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Unit 7, Park Road, Peterborough (Opposite Westgate Dept. Store) Open Monday To Saturday 10am to 6pm
01733 341555
01733 247171 www.urbanassault.org.uk www.freefirezone.co.uk email: games@urbanassault.org.uk Airsoft Shop www.fire-support.co.uk
gigs@espmag.co.uk
GIGGUIDE THU JUN 4
MR POSH
OUT OF ORDER
CIRCA 73
EUPHORIA
SAT JUN 27
BLAZE BAYLEY
THE DEAD ROCKS
Halcyon Westwood
The Fayre Spot Bretton
The Fayre Spot Bretton
Ebeneezers Woodston
CRASH AND BURN
The Park Park Road
Mama Liz's Voodoo Lounge Stamford
PAUL ROSSI
R N B BAND
IRENE RAE
The Roundhead Bretton
Cherry Tree Oundle Road
The Jubilee Bourne
GRUMPY OLD MEN
PORKY PIG
THE PULSE
The Dragon Werrington
The Golden Fleece Stamford
LEAGUE OF MENTALMEN
RED HOT SILLY PEPPERS
SAT JUN 13
Cherry Tree Oundle Road
GUIDO
FRI MAY 29
BLUES MANDATE The Fayre Spot Bretton
FRI JUN 5
CUTHBERT, DIBBLE & GRUB
ADHOC
The Swiss Cottage Woodston
Bluebell Dogsthorpe
GANGSTERS
DANA WYLIE BAND
Cherry Tree Oundle Road
Mama Liz's Voodoo Lounge Stamford
MOONLIGHT SHADOWS
MICK DAVIDSON AND FRIENDS
The Hit or Miss Stamford
SARAH WARREN BAND Charters Town Bridge
SOUL PROVIDERS
The Cellar Bar, Thorpe OPEN MIC NIGHT Ebeneezers The Cellar Bar Thorpe Woodston Lodge Hotel Lodge Thorpe Road Thorpe Road
MIGHTY QUINN
Cherry Tree Oundle Road
STORM The Bell Sawtry
THE CARVIN JONES BAND Charters Town Bridge
SAT MAY 30 GANGSTERS Lime Tree Walton
RETROLUX The Swiss Cottage Woodston
SHANE POOLE The Fayre Spot Bretton
SOUL WEAVER The Whittle Way Stanground
SOULWEAVER Whittle Way Stanground
STEALER
MONKEY BOY
Mama Liz's Voodoo Lounge Stamford
Halcyon Westwood
WHITE SPIRIT
MOONLIGHT SHADOWS Bricklayers Arms Whittlesey
NOT TO SCALE The Cock Inn Werrington
Bourne Festival Well Head Park Bourne
SAT JUN 6
SUN JUN 7 LIVE BANDS
Bourne Festival Well Head Park Bourne
A STORY TO TELL + 3 STOREYS HIGH + ALLBRIGHT
OUT OF ORDER
THE BRAYS
GRUMPY
THE BRINK
PORKY PIG
Cherry Tree Oundle Road
Whittle Way Stanground
ICONS OF THE BRAVE
QUEST
The Straw Bear The Cellar Bar Thorpe Whittlesey Lodge STONE PONY Thorpe Road Bluebell Dogsthorpe JOHN QUINN Bluebell SUMO Dogsthorpe Cherry Tree Oundle Road LEGEND The Hit or Miss TAKING CARE Stamford
PAUL LAKE
Charters Town Bridge
The Fleet Fletton
THE HOUNDOGS
THE BRAYS The Lime Tree Paston
THE OVERDUBS Ebeneezers Woodston
THE PULSE Westwood Club Westwood
WHITE SPIRIT
LIVE BANDS
FRANKLY
Peterborough Festival MY DEAR Central Park Cherry Tree Peterborough Oundle Road
HOOKER
PORKY PIG
Mama Liz's Voodoo Lounge Stamford
ONE EYED CATS
FRIXION
CITIZEN SMITH
WHITE SPIRIT
The Toreador Bar Stamford
The Cellar Bar Thorpe PORKY PIG Halcyon Lodge Westwood Thorpe Road
Three Horseshoes Werrington
THU JUN 11
MARK HALEY (THE RUBETTES)
The Toreador Bar Stamford
OF BUSINESS
The Cock Inn Werrington
THE BRAYS The Met Lounge Peterborough
THE HOUNDOGS + CARMEN GHIA AND THE HOTRODS Bourne Corn Exchange Bourne
THE REPLICAS The Toreador Bar Stamford
Bluebell Dogsthorpe
Goodbarns Yard St Johns Street
THE PULSE
SHAMELESS (HALCYON DAZE)
Brennans bar Spalding
UNLIMITED Cherry Tree Oundle Road
WHITE SPIRIT The Old Coach House Market Deeping
THU JUL 2
LLOYD WATSON
THE CHUCK
The Cellar Bar Thorpe NORRIS Lodge EXPERIENCE Thorpe Road The Toreador Bar Stamford
OUT OF ORDER
SAT JUN 20
The Whittle Way Stanground
BLAST FROM THE PAST
PORKY PIG
THU JUN 18
FRANKLY MY DEAR
Bluebell The Cellar Bar Thorpe Dogsthorpe The Cellar Bar Thorpe Lodge SOUL NIGHT WITH Lodge Thorpe Road TOMMY HUNT Thorpe Road Lime Tree CHILL FACTOR Walton THE OVERDUBS The Cock Inn The Bluebell Werrington THE STRANDS + Dogsthorpe
SUN MAY 31
Bluebell Dogsthorpe
QUEST
HOOKER
Goodbarns Yard St Johns Street
The Cock Inn Werrington
UK SUBS
LEGEND
The Park Park Road
The Golden Fleece Stamford
TUE JUN 2
MIGHTY QUINN
OPAQUE The Millstone Barnack
Lime Tree Walton
The Elmtree Tavern Dogsthorpe
SHAMELESS (HALCYON DAYS) Bluebell Dogsthorpe
LEE MAJOR The Cock Inn Werrington
OPAQUE Mama Liz's Voodoo Lounge Stamford
FRI JUN 19 BLUES CONSORTIUM The Whittle Way Stanground
The Roundhead Bretton
The Fayre Spot Bretton
CARLOS LATINO NIGHT
RETROLUX
DEATH VALLEY PILE DRIVER + SON OF KRAKATOA Mama Liz's Voodoo Lounge Stamford
Ebeneezers Woodston
FRI JUN 26
The Cellar Bar Thorpe Lodge Thorpe Road
GRUMPY OLD MEN
SKIN SQUIRREL SLIPPERS
UNLIMITED
Cherry Tree Oundle Road
FEET TO THE FIRE
Cherry Tree Oundle Road
The Roundhead Bretton
OPEN MIC NIGHT
Ebeneezers Woodston
RIFF RAFF
SIMON JAMES
Mama Liz's Voodoo Lounge Stamford
PHOENIX
JILL JULES MORGAN & FRIENDS
Westwood Herald Club Wicken Way
THU JUN 25
FRI JUN 12 FIVE MILES
Bluebell Dogsthorpe
Peterborough Festival OLD MEN Central Park The Cock Inn Peterborough Werrington
Bourne Festival Well Head Park Bourne Three Horseshoes Werrington
FALLEN ANGELS
The Three Horseshoes Werrington
The Roundhead Bretton
The Met Lounge Peterborough
The Periwig Stamford
Lime Tree Walton
The Lime Tree Walton
FRI JUL 3 GRUMPY OLD MEN New England Club New England
HOOKER Whittle Way Stanground
MATT ZILCH The Toreador Bar Stamford
THE LOUNGE + KING KOOL
Mama Liz's Voodoo Lounge Stamford
WHITE SPIRIT Cherry Tree Oundle Road
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.
clubland@espmag.co.uk
CLUBLAND INDIE DISSIDENTS Something a little different will be happening at Club Dissident on June 6, when Blueprint takes over to bring Indie disco and electro beats to the city. This night’s for people who want to hear real Independent music and electro – support it! Entry £4
SECRETECHNOSOCIETY LAUNCH
WESTWOOD @ CENTRAL GOLDIE @ CLUB DISSIDENT The first superstar to come from the Jungle and Drum’n’Bass scenes, Goldie is both a well respected producer and a household name – not bad when he works in a genre that tries to remain underground! Instantly recognisable for his rows of gold teeth, Goldie started out listening to hip-hop and hanging out with Nellee Hooper and 3-D of Massive Attack, but discovered jungle and Drum ‘n’ Bass thanks to the likes of DJs Fabio and Grooverider. He’s had major-label releases and worldwide tours, but it seems like he’s tired of being a celebrity and is returning to his roots with a set at Club Dissident on July 11 at the Hertz night. It’s a chance to relive the glory days of Jungle and old-school Drum ‘n’ Bass, with one of the scene’s biggest names playing in a 200-capacity venue that’s bound to get a little sweaty! Support on the night comes from Hertz regulars Mr Bang E, Komplex and Overdrive vs. Phix and a two hour pure Dreadnought records set from Total Dark Matter, Selecta and Hallsie back to back. Entry £15, advance tickets £13 from Ben on 07901 870915, Joe on 07647 705723 or Ty on 07739 489516.
MAMPI MADNESS Hijack continually bring some of the biggest artists from the Drum ‘n’ Bass scene to the city and on June 27 Mampi Swft will be coming to The Park. He’s been at the forefront of the D ‘n’ B scene for years, thanks to his tight mixing and dancefloordestroying tracks. He’s played at pretty much every major event and this set sees him showcasing his forthcoming album, ‘I am Legend,’ so expect nothing less than the freshest dubplates about! Entry £8.
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Pimp My Ride presenter and star of his own show on Radio One, Tim Westwood will be bringing his heavy hitters to Central in Stamford on June 19 for a night full of the biggest hip-hop beats and rhymes. He’s respected by rappers and producers both stateside and over here – expect old-school anthems as well as the freshest tracks around from 10pm – 3am. Entry £6. Go to the Central Facebook page and register for discounted guest list entry.
Brand new night SecreTechnoSociety kicks off at Club Dissident on June 27 and if the line-up for the first night’s anything to go by, it’s going to be a success! Headlining is DJ Rebekah Teasdale, fast rising star of the minimal and techno scenes, fresh from her tour of South America and just before her set at the massive Global Gathering in July. This night will be a chance for her to test her newest and toughest tracks before she steps up to the arena – catch her in an intimate venue while you still can! Entry £6.
ELUSIVE NEW TALENT The next generation of the Trance scene, such as Joe Napier, S.W.A.P and Jamie Harrison, will be paying a visit to Club Dissident on Lincoln Road on June 20 for Elusive – The Nu Breed. This night aims to showcase new Trance talent and the DJ’s booked are the cream of the new crop - Joe Napier has only been DJing for a relatively short space of time, but has managed to get his own club, Rompastomp, in Nottingham after scoring a residency at GatecrasherLovesNottingham, S.W.A.P is widely known from clubbing website www.dontstayin.com and Jamie Harrison’s just been booked to play at Passion and Storm. Entry £7.
FRANTIC FRIDAYS AT THE PARK Speed Swing returns to Club Revolution (The Park) on June 5 when Everett Irie and Cryer DJ will battle on the decks. Playing the best of funky house and UK Garage Vs. Bashment and R ‘n’ B, it’s a real mash-up of styles, with soulful harmonies over fast, dirty basslines. Don’t miss Frantic Friday Pt. 2 when Rompin’ Shop takes over on June 26. Full of Dancehall, Funky House, Bassline and Niche madness from Lion, Black Heart Sound and Ghetto Genius, it’s an awesome way to get the weekend started! Entry £4.
RIVERSIDE AFTER-PARTY Dig Deeps 3rd Birthday party coincides with the Riverside Festival in Stamford on July 4, so they’re throwing one huge party at Mama Liz’s Voodoo Lounge and they’ve booked Littlemen to help them celebrate! Featuring members of the Smokescreen Collective and the Giddy Fruit Collective, They’ve been releasing deep, funky house for ten years and have earnt themselves a massive reputation across the free party scene, as well as clubs across the world. Support on the night comes from resident DJ’s with an Eclectic room upstairs. As Riverside finishes at about midnight, there’s no better way to keep the night going! Advance tickets £4 from Mama Liz's, 07967 723674 or Patrick.u@ntlworld.com
PSY FESTIVAL PARTY The spirit of festival season comes to Club Dissident on June 5 for Psychedelic Breakdown Live, the only way to warm up for this year’s Strawberry Fair in Cambridge. With dubfolk from Keltrix and the unique Double Handsome Dragons playing live sets alongside DJ’s Sigil (AKA Shaggy) and Kendo playing filthy techno and deep, progressive psy-trance, it’ll be a party like no other. Entry £3 before 10pm, £5 after.
ON THE UP
George Boyd
Chris Whelpdale
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… Yes, it’s true. Footballers do the gardening… You might think being a Posh player these days is all about back to back promotions and celebrating wins in Baccara, but when ESP went to see Chris Whelpdale he was in a less glamorous spot, right behind the lawnmower. Whether he was there out of choice or under the instructions of ESP’s favourite WAG and former Face of ESP Kerry Bates is a matter for debate (and some mickey-taking). Whatever the reason, it didn’t seem to wipe the smile off the 22 year-old’s face after helping Posh reach the Championship in only his second season in the Football League.
Photo: Terr y Harris
“It’s been a great season, but it has just gone so quickly,” he told me. “We’ve done brilliantly, we have a young team who all really want to achieve good things, and that’s the key. It really hasn’t sunk in yet, two years ago I was playing for Billericay and now I’ll be playing in the Championship.”
Another young man riding the Posh roller-coaster is George Boyd, who capped a successful season by making his international debut for the Scotland B team.
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“Two promotions in two years is fantastic,” said George. “This one was better because everyone thought we’d go up from League Two, but this season they’d written us off and didn’t expect it. It was a lot harder to do. We knew in pre season we’d not just be there to make up the numbers.
And favourite moments for his team mate George? “My highlights are the goal I scored against Leeds as it was one of our first tests against a really big team, and then the celebrations after the Colchester game when we knew we’d be promoted. It was brilliant, an amazing feeling.”
After securing promotion with that 1-0 win at Colchester it was time for the party to start, with a bit of help from the manager. Chris explains: “The celebrations went on during the bus trip home when the gaffer gave us his credit card. We stopped off at a Tesco on
“On a personal level, I really enjoyed it. I played every game and feel like I contributed quite a lot.”
Chris and Kerry on holiday up the Eiffel Tower
While George’s nine goals and long hair may have grabbed the headlines as part of the holy trinity with strikers Craig Mackail-Smith and Aaron Mclean, Chris has established himself in the team. “I think I’ve developed a huge amount this season. I’ve got seven goals and have been working hard in training trying to develop my game,” he said. “It’s been like a fairytale, but it’s just gone so quickly. Dean Keates told me not to waste it and take it for granted. He was right. I didn’t realise it would go so quickly. You have to enjoy the success while you can. It’s what I’ve always wanted.”
The 24 year-old has been through her own voyage of discovery as her boyfriend and Posh have climbed the leagues, admitting… “I have got into football.”
But was he convinced that a second promotion would come so quickly?
She may still work, but Kerry takes her role of WAG seriously, going to all the home games, getting nervous and enjoying the matches.
“We always knew we had a good team and if we kept performing each week we’d be right up there. When we beat Leicester 2-0 at home that was when it kicked in.
But what about living with a Posh player…?
“The goal I scored in the win against Leicester was a great moment, when I saw the whole stadium on its feet, it was a great feeling, but so hard to describe. The sound of the crowd and then all my team mates running up to me.”
A POSH BIRD ESP has its own connections within the Whelpdale household through former Face of ESP, Kerry Bates.
“A lot of the players’ girlfriends and partners say they’re grumpy if they’ve lost, but Chris isn’t like that. He’s just quiet, but that’s only because he’s tired, and that’s not to do with the result.” The player’s partners also helped provide Kerry with a network of friends when she first moved to Peterborough from Stamford. “I have got to know a lot of the girlfriends. If there’s a game on, we can all meet for lunch before heading off to watch them play.” So it really is WAGS United for our girl!
Photos: Joe Dent
(AGAIN!)
sport@espmag.co.uk
Photos: Joe Dent
LOCALSPORT
the way home and filled up with alcohol using his card!” It seems the camaraderie between the young squad is a massive part of Posh’s success – both on and off the field! George told me - “We’re all around the same age and we are always socialising together, that can only be good and it shows on the pitch. We play on the computer, do some karting and have started playing golf now the weather’s better.” But now it’s time for the summer holiday. After his trip to Scotland, George will be spending time with his family in Kent as well as enjoying a holiday and Tommy Williams’ stag trip. For Chris, Spain, Las Vegas and a trip to the Caribbean are on the cards. “It’s good to turn off a bit but towards the end of the summer break it’s quite good to start thinking about getting your mind ready for pre season training. I’m looking forward to the big games and the stadiums. I could go from playing in front of 50 people to playing in front of 50,000 people if Newcastle are relegated. “When I came to the club I knew the chairman was ambitious as he said he wanted to be in the
Premiership in five years. We thought that was REALLY ambitious, but the further we progressed the more we thought it could actually happen. We won’t be just sitting back in the Championship, we will want to do as well as we can, but I think it will be about consolidation.” And what of life in Peterborough, where Posh’s success means the players are becoming celebrities? Chris’s verdict: “I really enjoy living here, I got to meet Kerry! We’ve settled really well and there are lots of things to do. A lot of the players live near each other so we do things together. Play on the X-box or golf, maybe gardening! It just depends on how I’m feeling. “Getting people coming up to you is quite weird, when they know who you are, but you don’t know who they are!” And George: “That’s what happens with success! I get quite a few people coming up to me to say well done. It’s great for the city.” More importantly will the new season see a George Boyd without his long trademark hair and hair band…? “No chance, I like my hair long, and I need the hair band, it’s the only way I can keep my hair out of my eyes when I’m playing!”
pub@espmag.co.uk
PUBGUIDE
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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 • Free pool on Tuesdays • Large family beer garden
• 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
St Pauls Road, Dogsthorpe Tel: 01733 554890
• 2 main meals £10, Tuesday - Saturday 5.30-9pm
The Fox
Halcyon
• Family friendly pub with beer garden • Home cooked bar food daily • New Tapas menu available from May onwards • 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
• 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
The Fox, Folksworth Tel: 01733 240 258
Atherstone Ave, Peterbrough Tel: 01733 263801
Crown Inn
Verve
• Real Ales served in our friendly welcoming bar • Beautiful village setting • Home served cooked food served Tues sat 12-2pm and Thurs –Sat 6pm-8pm • Sunday Lunch 12-6pm £6-95
• 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
Main St, Great Casterton, Stamford Tel: 01780 489463
Church Street, Peterborough Tel: 01733 561723
The Whittle Way
Lime Tree
• Live music every Friday (see ESP Gig Guide) • All Sky Sports events on large screen TV • Real Ales • Quiz night every Sunday • Function room available • Beer garden
• 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
Central Square, Stanground Tel: 01733 340304
Paston Lane, Walton Tel: 01733 708320
Thorpe Lodge Hotel
The Roundhead
• 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
• 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