ESP March 2015

MARCH 2015 Issue 187

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The best Leisure & Lifestyle for Greater Peterborough The best guide to What’s On Health & Beauty The Posh Page Live Music Food Wheels

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Peterborough talent on the TV!

We chat to local stars of The Voice, Strictly and Siberia

Local runner hits the desert Interview

kylie Minogue

Interview:

Pasha from Strictly

EvEn morE nEws and EvEnts on WWW.eSPMaG.cO.uk or LikE us on FaceBOOk or foLLow us on TWITTer to hEar first

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

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

deborah.grace@espmag.co.uk

DESIGN Tony Mayer

tony.mayer@espmag.co.uk

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

COLuMNISTS Pep Cipriano Steve Gonzalez Karen Devine

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

REPORTERS Mikey Clarke Anna Ruggiero

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

CONTRIBuTORS Gavin Miller Charlotte Jolly Keith Dalton Sarah Tempest Sue Donnelly

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

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

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

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

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AWARD WINNING BANYAN TREE MELANIE GETS A FRESH RICHARDS LOOK Not only is the food delicious but we have to say the Banyan Tree restaurant on Westgate is looking hot too after a fantastic refurbishment!

Owner Dinesh Odedra told ESP – “We’ve started our refurbishment and the first phase has been completed. We took feedback from our customers on what they’d like to see us do first. There was demand for more space downstairs. So, we extended the bar and lounge area ESP would like tocreated congratulate and have also a new space on the Richards ground floorHair which is perfect for large Melanie Boutique, groups booking their Christmas for being awarded Silver Salon parties. status“It’s forcreated 2 years running for atmosphere a totally different their expertise and where excellent in the restaurant there is a great skills in using Lengths Hair vibe everyGreat night. We’re planning to introduceFor some DJ events during the Extensions. a free Christmason period thatLenghts utilises this new consultation Great space... soplease keep your to the ground!"

Extenstions, callear01733 553600. also like tothe food here WeWe’d highly recommend welcome new stylistIndian.

Albert whichtheir is truly authentic Book now 01733Quote 342800.ESP when to theon team! you book for a cut & blowdry with Albert for just £25 OUTFIT HAS IT throughout March.

ALL UNDER ONE ROOF HANDMADE

If you’re getting stressed trying to find the

BURGER perfect partyCO wear don’t forget that Dorothy Perkins, Burton and Evans have COMING SOON!

all relocated into the Outfit store at Like aSerpentine good burger? you’ll Green!Then So now you can save love the Co,street yourHandmade legs and find Burger all your high whichfavourites we’re told is one on course under roof. Theytoalso have Topshop, Topman, Warehouse and more. open mid April.

The familya great to find a brand present for ownedIt’sand runplace restaurant someone too or100% make life really easy are famous forelse using fully and buy an Outfit gift card! Check out the traceable prime Scottish beef in latest looks from Outfit in our special their delicious which are feature on burgers www.espmag.co.uk handmade in the restaurant every day. We can't wait to try PARTY them GET out when they move into the former Old Still @ building.

READY MY

BODY MOTHER’S DAY AT ESSENTIALS THE BULL HOTEL Mother's Day is the perfect opportunity to show your mum just how much you care, and what better way to express love than with some fine food and fizz.

This Mother's Day, Sunday March 15, the Bull Hotel are offering a three-course meal, including a glass of bucks fizz, and canapes for just £24.50 per adult and £13.95 for children under 10, minus the bucks fizz of course!

To book call 01733 561364.

Proudly sponsored by

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

TRYThisNEW month My Body Essentials would like to be sure that your Christmas party DERMAPEN dress fits you perfectly! Until Christmas @ MBE they are practically giving away Lipo-Belt treatments for just £15 per session, these sessions usually cost up to £65! The treatment’s safe and effective and gets results immediately – you can lose several centimetres in just one session although you could sometimes require If you’re looking foron more more depending the results you need. effective Nowskin thererejuvenation is no excuse not to wear your resultsfavourite with shorter downtime, party dress!

Give MBE a call on or take a look at take a01733 look 305102 at the latest www.mybodyessentials.co.uk treatments from MBE using the for more info.This Micro Dermapen™.

Needling treatment promotes scar-less healingBOOK similar to CITY fractional laser treatments and MAKES GREAT chemical peels, but without the longerGIFT lasting side effects, so If you’re stuckand for an unusual gift or less discomfort better that’ll certainly resultssomething are achieved.

The have meaning for anyonegently broughtpunctures up in Peterborough, Dermapen™ we can highly recommend the book of and stimulates your skin with photos, New England, by street very fine needlesChris to encourage photographer Porsz. faster natural collagen renewal If you missedFor out last Christmas and production. more info onthen this photography these popular latest must havebook depicts Peterborough in theon seventies treatments call MBE 01733and eighties through some great candid 305102 or visit shots. It’s a fantastic slice of social www.mybodyessentials.co.uk history. It’s available for just £13.99 from and see the fantasticSquare, resultsShrives Reba in Cathedral these chemist treatments are achieving. in Westgate, Art in the Heart Shop, Visitors Information Centre and Waterstones in Bridge St. Also from PETERBOROUGH Colemans in Cowgate, The Barn garden centre Gunthorpe, the hospital friends MAN LAUNCHES shop, Ferry Meadows and via his website FIRST NOVEL www.chrisporsz.com

AMICI LAUNCH CHRISTMAS MENU Spalding’s great Italian restaurant Amici tell us they’ve launched a delicious special Christmas menu this December, with five new starters, five main courses and plenty of mouth-watering desserts that are completely exclusive to the menu.

Running from Sunday December 1 –

It’s great to see so many local authors getting their work out there!

Mel Smith, from Peterborough, is excited to launch his first book, aptly titled, Memoirs of an Ordinary Guy. Mel's book focuses on the trials and tribulations of a 'ordinary guy' and is based on growing up in the 70s, 80s and 90s. Mel actually started to put pen to paper 25 years ago but life’s

distractions got in the way, until Sunday December 29, you can make in 2012, he decided it was time yourhis booking calling to share storybyand let01775 the 767696. world in.

LATE NIGHT Described by critics as SHOPPING ‘emotional, honest and compelling’, Memoirs of an @ SPRINGFIELDS Ordinary Guy offers something It’s not always easy to fit Christmas uniqueshopping to eachinto reader. a busy Noting schedule. Luckily, Mel's Springfields life from boy toShopping man, and Outlet in Spalding somewhere in between, the hours to have extended their opening book appeals toSpringfields both menisand help us out! now open on weekdays until 9pm thistomonth women.

Men can relate his through untiltales the week commencing boyhood whilst offeringMonday December What’s more, women a great 23. insight into thethe car park will be free to use from 6pm. male psyche.

Subway, The Kitchen and Frankie and Benny’s, however, will remain Mel will also be donating £1 open until 10pm. copy of his book sold from every to the Cloves Syndrome Community.

50% OFF SELECTED The book’s available at www.britainsnextbest PRODUCTS seller.co.uk @ BEALES

Don’t forget to stop at Beales on

SUIT DIRECT Westgate on your shopping travels this Christmas.@ They’re offering 50% off OPENS selected lines, ranging from gifts to home SPRINGFIELDS accessories. Get some cut-price prezzies before they suited run out! an booted It’s time to get boys! Suit Direct is now open at Springfields Shopping Centre, BOLLYWOOD Spalding, and lucky ESP readers TIGER’S can get a further 15% off by CHRISTMAS quoting ESP in store when making a purchase.

Happy DAY BUFFET shopping!

Yaxley restaurant Bollywood Tiger is bringing an Indian flavour to the menu this Christmas with a special Christmas BLUE-EYED Day buffet. So if you fancy a change from DOLLS the turkey and a rest from the cooking the buffet is priced at £19.95 per adult, whilst LAUNCH NEW senior citizens and children can dine for COLLECTION £14.95. For bookings, call 01733 246519.

COCK INN WINTER BEER FEST The Cock Inn at Werrington has festive

Ladies independent fashion boutique, Blue-eyed Dolls on North Street in Bourne, are excited to be launching three new collections of clothing basics, boutique and bargains on Saturday March 7.The new collections include dresses, tops, jeans and plenty more, in sizes 8 – 20. Go on, support your independent stores and take a peek at their new looks! For more info visit www.facebook.com/ blueeyeddolls.

OUNDLE AUTHOR SETS WORLD ON FIRE

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Anna Quicke, a local author based in Oundle has published her second book to a wave of good reviews. The Painted Fire is a dark love story set in the autumn and winter months of 1850 and features the loves and lives of Lucius Steer, a young mute farmhand with no confidence and Florrie Carrington, the outspoken and rebellious wife of a local aristocrat. The book is set in Oundle, Stamford and the surrounding villages and is a real treat for local history lovers. Grab a copy from Amazon.

CRESSET MAKES GENEROUS DONATION

VIVACITY GYMS JOINING INCENTIVE

Was one of your new year’s resolutions this year to get fit and sign up with the gym? Worried you have left it too late? Well the good news is that you haven’t and if you sign up as a member with a Vivacity gym in Hampton, Werrington or Bushfield, you won’t have to pay a joining fee! So what are you waiting for? Call them on 01733 864000 and start planning your fitness journey today.

IT’S FUN TIME FOR KIDS AT QUEENSGATE

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ESP would like to say a big well done to staff at the Cresset for donating £1,637 for Global's Make Some Noise, the charity supported by local radio station Heart FM. They helped raise this fantastic amount during the Cresset’s Christmas pantomime, Aladdin, with generous theatregoers digging deep for a worthy cause.

Global’s Make Some Noise is a national charity that helps disadvantaged children and young people across the UK.

CHARITY CONCERT FOR CANCER RESEARCH

Queensgate Shopping Centre introduces Snapper Jaxx kids club, free interactive entertainment for kids launching on March Sunday 8 and taking place on the second Sunday of every month. Snapper Jaxx is a fun-packed interactive kids’ session of excitement and cool activities to bring out the creativity and imagination of little ones. There is a new theme each month from shooting stars to dinosaur roar.

For more info visit www.queensgate-shopping.co.uk

GREYHOUNDS DRINK OFFER!

Peterborough couple, Clair and Silvio are organising a charity concert with live performances at the Stamford Corn Exchange on Good Friday, April 3, in aid of Cancer Research UK. Clair was diagnosed with cancer last year and after a year of surgery and treatments; she and her family now want to give something back to honour the fantastic care and treatment Claire received.

The event will be a fantastic night of live music and tickets are on sale via the Stamford Corn Exchange box office, or you can contact Silvio on 07930 443810.

You can’t beat a fun night out at the dogs and Peterborough Greyhounds are offering ESP readers a fantastic £5 of free drinks when dining at the Raceview Restaurant. You can view menus and book online at www.peterboroughgreyhounds.com or call 01733 296939.

LOCAL

Entertainment

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

DRIFT AWAY WITH SWAN LAKE We all like a little elegance and escapism from time to time and what better way to drift off to a romantic world of fantasy than with a live screening from the Royal Opera House at the Key Theatre of one of the greatest romantic ballets of all time, Swan Lake. For those who have not yet seen Tchaikovsky's classic ballet, you can rest assured you will be mesmerised by his dedication to the power of love, and also the amazing things those ballet dancers can do. So for a taste of London right on your doorstep, put Tuesday March 17 in your diary.

Ticket prices are £16 full price, £13.50 concessions, and are available on 01733 207239. Booking early is recommended.

It's Big Band Time!

BOYCIE IS BACK!

It's time to put on your fancy clobber and get those feet tapping, The Swinging Big Band are coming to town! Rather than spending Sunday evening pondering over the week to come, and if you like the sounds of Glenn Miller, Count Basie, Tommy Dorsey, Quincy Jones, Billy May, Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald and many more, dust off your dancing shoes and get into the groove with the Syd Lawrence orchestra, 'The Best Big Band in the Land' directed by Chris Bean. The showstopping performance is taking place on Sunday March 8, 7.30pm at the Key Theatre.

Only Fools and Horses is pure TV gold and from its first broadcast in 1981, the popular show has built an army of fans and produced some of the nation’s finest comedy actors, including John Challis who played the lovable snob, Boycie. Now fans can enjoy an intimate evening with the star at the Stamford Corn Exchange, Saturday March 14, for a one-off show where the actor will be spilling the beans on what it was really like to star in one of Britain's best loved comedies, working alongside co-stars like Sir David Jason, and Nicholas Lyndhurst.

There is also the opportunity for fans to meet John after the show to sign autographs, pose for pictures and a signing of his autobiography, Being Boycie, and novel, A Stag At Bay. Tickets are £15 on 01780 766455.

Tickets are £17.50 on 01733 207239.

BEHIND THE ELVIS YEARS (1954 - 1977) THE BEAUTIFUL FOREVERS

It's time to get all shook up and enjoy a night with the king of rock and roll, Elvis Presley! Coming to the Cresset on Friday March 27 is the outstanding concert production of the West End musical, Jailhouse Rock, featuring original star Mario Kombou and his incredible band, led by the award-winning legendary producer, David Mackay. This spectacular show is packed with more than 50 of Elvis' greatest hits and will be a night to remember!

Theatre lovers are in for a treat with the critically acclaimed adaptation of Behind the Beautiful Forevers starring the queen of screen Meera Syal (The Kumars, Goodness Gracious Me). Written by prizewinning author Katherine Boo, directed by David Hare, and with a glowing testimonial from the Guardian, Behind the Beatiful Forevers is a 'triumph for David Hare and Meera Syal. The play leaves you deeply affected’.

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BANFF MOUNTAIN FILM FEST

Photo: Kennan Harvey

Based on three years of research in which Boo spent time living in Annawadi, an Indian slum, Behind the Beautiful Forevers is a story based on the trials and tribulations of the Annawadi residents. This is one not to be missed. The performance takes place Tuesday March 31 at the Key Theatre.

Tickets are £16 & £13.50 concessions on 01733 207239.

Ticket price is £21.50 on 01733 265705.

The Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour comes to the Cresset. Fancy some mountainous adventure in your life without having to leave Peterborough?

If so, leave Friday March 13 free and head to the Cresset for some serious nail-biting viewing with the Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour! Described as ‘exhilarating and thought-provoking’, this global film tour lets you enjoy an adrenaline packed evening of adventure, with a selection of extraordinary short films from the world's leading film makers. Ticket price is £13.50 concessions available, on 01733 265705.

BUBLÉ FEVER – THE MICHAEL BUBLÉ SHOW – TRIBUTE ACT Fans of the Canadian crooner Mr Michael Bublé are in for a treat with this exceptional tribute act coming to the Cresset on Saturday March 28. Said to be one of the most accuate portrayal of Michael Bublé Live, Bublé Fever is sure to get your feet tapping and hips swinging whilst enjoying your favourite Bublé songs performed by classically trained singer Rickie Arthur, backed by his live band and singers.

Ticket price is £22 on 01733 265705.

JAMIE ALLAN – THE iMAGICIAN After mesmerising American audiences for 12 years with his fusion of magic and technology, Jamie is now set to launch a spectacular UK tour iMagician: The Evolution of Magic.

You'll be able to enjoy his high-tech and enchanting show at the Cresset on Sunday March 22. iMagician explores the work of the legendary Harry Houdini and uses modern technology to make it even more mind blowing. Performances have even included making a helicopter vanish and reappear, live on stage during the maiden voyage of the Queen Mary II and a trick he repeated on TV for millions of viewers. Using the latest technology, iMagician includes high powered laser beams, iPads, Twitter and Facebook. Jamie has headlined at The London Palladium and he's worked in all aspects of the entertainment industry as performer, producer, director and writer of a vast array of TV and theatre projects throughout Europe and the USA. Ticket price is £21, concessions available on 01733 265705.

THE ADDAMS FAMILY Get ready for the regional premiere of The Addams Family – it’s gonna be a scream!

Peterborough Operatic & Dramatic Society had great success with their production of The Witches of Eastwick and are now set to follow it up with this new musical which has been a real hit on Broadway. It's based on the characters of the 60’s TV show and the 90’s movies starring Anjelica Huston and Christina Ricci, as that 'creepy, kooky, mysterious and spooky' Addams Family.

Book now for The Addams Family coming to the Key Theatre from March 24-28. It's full of belly-laughing humour, big Broadway dance numbers and catchy songs that will have you humming the whole way home. Tickets are available now on 01733 207239.

OLIVER! WE WANT MORE! Following the hugely successful productions of Annie and High School Musical, the UK's leading youth musical theatre production company, RARE Productions, are back with the classic musical OLIVER! Based on the Charles Dickens novel Oliver Twist, this heartwarming production includes some of theatre's most memorable characters and songs, including Consider Yourself, Food Glorious Food and Oom-Pah-Pah. Performance nights are Thursday March 19, Friday March 20 and Saturday March 21.

Ticket prices start from £14.50 on 01733 265705.

PETERBOROUGH ARTS CINEMA Goltzius And The Pelican Company – Thursday March 5 The film is based on the life of Hendrik Goltzius, a late 16th century Dutch printer and engraver of erotic prints.

Belle –Thursday March 12 The story of a illegitimate, mixed-race daughter (Gugu Mbatha-Raw), of a British admiral who plays an important role in the campaign to abolish slavery in England in this British period drama.

Jodorowsky's Dune –Thursday March 19 An adaptation of Frank Herbert's classic sci-fi novel DUNE Before I Go To Sleep –Thursday March 26 A 2014 British-American thriller staring screen siren Nicole Kidman.

For more details see www.peterboroughartscinema.co.uk www.espmag.co.uk

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LOCAL

Events

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

MOTHER'S DAY AND EASTER FUN AT SACREWELL CHARITY SOUL NIGHT RETURNS Need a little more soul in your life? Then head to The Brewery Tap on Saturday March 28 for a night of good tunes all in aid of a good cause too.

Motor City Vipers, a local 8-piece band are hosting their third annual charity soul night at The Brewery Tap in association with Randall Rootz Community Music, to help raise funds and awareness for Sue Ryder Care at Thorpe Hall Hospice in Peterborough.

The Vipers have built up a fantastic reputation and never disappoint. Frontman, Andy Whittaker told ESP – “The last two years have been a total sell-out and we’re hoping for the same again this year by putting on a fantastic evening of entertainment in support of such a good cause.”

Playing the best of Motown and Northern Soul floorfillers, from The Temptations, Wilson Pickett and Dobie Gray, to The Supremes, Smokey Robinson and Otis Redding, the evening promises to have you dancing all night long! We can’t wait, see you at the front.

Tickets are £10 on 01733 358500.

TRIBUTE ACTS COME TO LIVE @ THE ACADEMY! Music lovers won't be left disappointed with two fantastic tribute acts performing at Live @ The Academy at the Sir Harry Smith Community College.

Fleetwood Bac, a superb Fleetwood Mac Tribute Act will be wowing audiences on Friday March 27. Doors open at 7pm and the show starts at 8.30pm. Tickets are £15.

Also performing at Live @ The Academy on Saturday April 25 are Los Endos, described as the UK's no.1 Genesis Tribute Act and a must see for Genesis fans.

Tickets are £16 and doors open at 7pm for the 8.30pm show.

For more information on both acts go to www.ticketsource/co/uk/livetheacademy

It's all going on at Sacrewell, the farm and activity centre near Peterborough, so make sure you take some time out to enjoy a whole host of family activities starting with some tea and fun on Mother's Day. On Sunday March 15 mums and grandmothers get in for free and the event coincides with the charity's lamb and kid feeding which takes place every day. The café will also be giving away free tea, coffee and biccies for all the lovely mums to enjoy.

Easter is also set to be a fun time at the farm so make a date to visit from March 28 – April 13. The Easter adventure starts with a bumpy tractor ride to the Enchanted Wood, where you will have fun hunting plastic eggs that can be swapped for a delicious chocolate suprise from Sacrewell’s Big Bunny!

Events executive Megan Allen said:“The big bunny hunt is an event that we have been running at Sacrewell for years and has always proved to be very popular.”

For more info go to www.sacrewell.org.uk

CHARTERS TO TAKE PART IN A SPONSORED ROW! Staff and regulars at Charters Bar are taking part in a sponsored row for Comic Relief. The charity row will take place on board Charters with staff and regulars volunteering to row 292.5 miles, the distance from Charters to their sister pubs The Brewery Tap, Oaka at the Mansion House (London), The Bartons Arms (Birmingham) and back to the boat.

The theme for Comic Relief this year is 'do something funny for money' so you can expect to see participants sporting red noses and maybe some funny faces too!

Rowing will kick-off on Friday March 13 and sponsorship forms and collection buckets will be available for customers to donate.

Good luck guys!

MEGACYCLE AT FERRY MEADOWS! The team at ESP are always on the look out for new and excting events, and The Shine Megacycle looks set to be a day of fun, fitness and festivities!

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

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

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

PETERBOROUGH PHOTOGRAPHIC EXHIBITION For those with a love of photography, head to St John's Church in Peterborough and enjoy an exhibition hosted by the Peterborough

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Photographic Society. The annual exhibition will take place from March 16 – March 29.

This is a great opportunity for people interested in photography to see locally created work and speak to Club members.

Entry to the exhibition will be free.

For more info go to www.peterboroughps.org.uk.

Mothers Day Mothers Day Special Menu for ÂŁ18

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

LOCAL

Events

NEW TOLETHORPE HALL THEATRE SEASON Great news for theatre lovers, the new season’s been launched by the Stamford Shakespeare Company at Rutland's beautiful open air theatre, Tolethorpe Hall.

MAJOR CYCLING EVENT COMES TO PETERBOROUGH! An amazing first for the UK is coming to Peterborough and will see thousands of cyclists take to local roads this summer.

Saturday June 6 will also see the first ever UCI World Cycling Tour event take place in the UK with the 28km closed road Tour of Cambridgeshire Chrono time trial. There are places for 700 riders who’ll start the ‘sporting’ course from a professional race style ramp.

Male and female winners of both the Gran Fondo and Chrono will each receive £1,500 and there will also be equal prizes for male and female Masters age group classifications.

Combined prizes for the overall on both events will also be awarded.

Entry for the Gran Fondo is £56 and the Chrono £34 with a limited joint entry of £80 also available.

T

he UK’s first truly authentic continental style closed road ‘gran fondo’ will take place in Peterborough on Sunday June 7 with the Tour of Cambridgeshire Gran Fondo.

The cycling race/sportive will be the first of its kind in the UK with a race at the front and a sportive for the rest of the field just like similar cycling events in Europe.

There are 10,000 places available on a first come, first served basis with seeding for the front racing groups and the event will see cyclists power around a132km loop through the Cambridgeshire countryside, setting off from Peterborough Arena. If you’re not a cyclist this will still be an amazing spectator event in our city!

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Tom Caldwell from organisers Vericool Sports Management told ESP how the event came about: “Until now British riders have had to travel abroad to compete in proper closed road gran fondos, so when the UCI approached us about organising the UCWT level time trial and we secured the closed roads, we realised this is the right time to bring a truly authentic race/sportive gran fondo to the UK. It’s been a lot of hard work and investment to get to this stage but worth it to have the first events of their kind in the UK.” Both events will start and finish at the Peterborough Arena with ample free parking on site for thousands of cars. A trade village and catering facilities will be available on site all weekend.

For more details and to enter please visit www.tourofcambridgeshire.com

Tickets are now on sale for the three performances, Henry V, Romeo & Juliet and Tom Jones, and what better way to enjoy a summer’s evening than watching fine actors performing on a stage set in an enchanting glade, after indulging in alfresco dining. Yes, you can take a picnic to enjoy whilst enjoying the arts. Don't worry about weather affecting your evening either as while the actors perform outdoors you stay undercover seated beneath a canopy, so even a little rain can't dampen the mood.

Described as: ‘One of the finest things to do this summer’

by The Sunday Times, shows run from June to August and early booking is advisable so you don't miss out.

For more info visit www.stamfordshakespeare.co.uk or call the box office on 01780 756133.

Anna Ruggiero

Run4Mum – MOTHER'S DAY RUN! This Mother's Day, why not have some outdoor fun with your mum and join in on the Run4Mum 4km charity event.

Starting at Ferry Meadows on Sunday March 15, you and your family can run, jog or even walk the 4km. The aim of the event is to celebrate mums in a fun and active day.

Run4Mum will also be a significant contributor to breast cancer research with the event partnering exclusively with Breakthrough Breast Cancer.

It’s hoped there’ll be hundreds of participants in the event which is open to men, women and children, so what are you waiting for? Dust off your trainers and round up the family for some outdoor fun this Mother's Day. For more info go to www.run4mum.global Anna Ruggiero

espmag.co.uk

For the very latest news and events

Spring is a particularly good time to visit as there’s a good chance of actually seeing lambs and piglets being born and chicks hatching.

Their lambing weekend is coming up on March 14 -15.

Pigeons FARM

Over Easter there are egg hunts around the farm and in the summer it’s taking part in Open Farm Sunday on June 7, an event which saw over 4,000 people attend for free last year.

If you’re chomping at the bit to get out of the house and need to occupy the kids, Pigeons Farm seems to have fun days out all sewn up…

It’s a family run farm with a really personal approach and the accent on friendliness.

Nothing beats real interaction and the kids can get to hold many of the animals, bottle feed the lambs in season, collect eggs, and watch pig racing in the summer.

Pigeons Farm isn’t a farm park but is a real traditional farm that gives visitors a fantastic day out and the chance to interact with the animals in a safe way.

Since opening 7 years ago Pigeons Farm near Thorney has proved a popular attraction and it’s easy to see why. They have a wide variety of animals for the kids to get up close to ranging from rabbits to donkeys, lambs to piglets as well as ornamental peacocks and plenty more to see.

Kids just love the freedom as there’s loads of space and there are both indoor and outdoor play areas. And of course there’s the amazing ‘jumping pillow’ where they can all bounce together safely and let off some steam.

The popular restaurant offers quality home cooked food with meat produced on the farm and they can cater for children’s parties.

“The kids really enjoy the interaction,” explains owner Linda Moore, “and there aren’t set petting times so everyone gets the chance to safely handle the animals and they can ask questions. We’re keen to educate them as well as give them a really fun day out.”

If you want to make a weekend of it they have a campsite with electric hook ups and family camping is just £25 per night including entry to the farm.

So come on, the farm’s open 7 days a week so let’s get out there!

Pigeons Farm is popular with school trips and has the Learning Outside the Classroom badge so you know it’s a quality day out.

Pigeons Farm, Wisbech Road, Thorney, Peterborough, PE6 0TD. Tel: 01733 271020. www.pigeonsfarm.co.uk

FROM BATTLEFIELD TO BALLROOM FOR OUR CASSIDY

Photo: BBC/Ray Burmiston

It’s the first time Strictly has thrown open the sparkly doors of its ballroom to the general public and the winner (fingers crossed Cassidy) will be revealed during Comic Relief night on Sunday March 15.

There’s another Peterborough guy about to hit our TV screens. ESP’s Pep Cipriano reports…

First our very own Louis Smith took the glitter ball prize in Strictly Come Dancing and now it’s the turn of city hero Cassidy Little to do battle in the ballroom.

The People's Strictly For Comic Relief is on our TV screens and Cassidy is already off to a winner by being partnered with the sumptuous Natalie Lowe.

I’m a bit jealous because despite tips from Vincent Simone at last year’s Italian Festival and weekly lessons at TuDanse in Fengate, my application must have been mistakenly overlooked.

But there’s a good reason why. Cassidy is one of six contestants from thousands of applicants chosen to take part because of their tireless and selfless work that’s helped change so many lives for the better.

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Cassidy, who was born in Canada but lives in Peterborough, has appeared in adverts for the Royal British Legion and is also an actor in The Two Worlds of Charlie F, a play about soldiers in Afghanistan performed by ex-service personnel. He’s a military speaker at events and he was one of Peterborough’s Olympic Torch bearers.

A former Royal Marine medic, Lance Corporal Little lost his right leg below the knee during a tour of Afghanistan in 2011 when a explosive device was triggered, which resulted in three fatalities and five seriously injured Marines including Cassidy.

Despite his own horrific injuries Cassidy selflessly attempted to tend to his colleagues on the ground after the attack. Following the incident Cassidy spent a

week in an induced coma and two months in hospital.

He then undertook intensive rehabilitation with his fellow injured Marines, who commented that it was Cassidy’s optimism and sense of humour that helped them through an incredibly tough time.

Major Steve McCulley, who spent more than two years in rehab with Cassidy, told ESP – “Every single seriously injured service person goes through very dark periods and were it not for Cassidy, those dark periods would have been far longer and far harder for many to deal with, me included.”

Previously an avid dancer and with a degree in music and dance Cassidy also taught fellow Marine JJ Chalmers how to waltz whilst out in Afghanistan, so JJ could impress his fiancée at their first dance for their wedding.

Good luck Cassidy and whatever the outcome “Keep Dancing!”

We’ll have more on Cassidy next month.

WAX ON, WAX OFF? pep.cipriano@espmag.co.uk

Teletext Holidays saw an increase in romantic holidays after a film about some grey man was released. On booking, numerous couples asked if there was a charge for cleaning candle wax from hotel linen. Why would you stay in a room without lights?

Pep Cipriano

HAPPY 18th THE SOLSTICE!

MY WORD OF THE MONTH

WOMEN

The city centre’s best loved bar is celebrating a special birthday this month, which means I might have to come out of semi-retirement and raise a glass or two…

Sunday March 8 is International Women’s Day. In respect and acknowledgement of this I’ll be spending time surfing images of: Kelly Brook, Taylor Swift (yes, I have a thing), Kate Beckinsale, Katy Perry, Kirsty Gallagher, Megan Fox and Kelly from Daventry (RIP Page 3).

THANKS LAURA! noticed building work underway for another bar area which will have a hydraulic roof!

Manager Kevin Jeffery may himself still look 18 but he’s been there since back in the day and knows a thing or two about operating a successful venue. A good manager with excellent knowledge of the city is one of the reasons The Solstice has been able to sustain its popularity for so long.

It’s been 18 years since The Solstice first flung open its doors and the venue has consistently drawn in the crowds, proving popular with two generations of night scene revellers.

Today’s Solstice is arguably the busiest it’s ever been and that’s due to it being historically a no-nonsense fun place to visit no matter what your taste in music or venue might be.

The Solstice has earned its stripes in being a venue you’d recommend for a good night out and I’d be amazed if there’s anyone reading this who’s never set foot in the place.

It’s not stood still and has opened out with the introduction of the SolGarden and you may have

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Kevin told me – “I believe the Solstice has been such a success because the local owners continually invest in the venue, over 18 years we've had many makeovers – the Radius venue upstairs has evolved with the times also. The SolGarden really made us the destination venue for the people wanting to come eat or drink in the city centre and be outside while doing so. The team dynamic we have here – the bar staff, security, management and entertainment team are all one big family.

“With regards to our music policy we have always made the main room commercial with the latest chart songs and classic old tunes, the Lounge is more rock and Indie style – whereas the garden supports live music and house music.”

That diverse music policy has certainly a hand in its

So last month I put out an urgent plea for information about any local Pilates classes. Laura Saunders emailed me with the suggestion of Bushfield Leisure Centre and I’ll be checking it out soon.

Thanks Laura. Assuming you’re the font of all knowledge, where locally can I get a speedometer cable for a 1970 Ford Cortina 1600 E?

success and there’s no better local DJ than Steve Andrews being at the helm of what’s blaring out of the speakers. His Terrace Sessions in The SolGarden have been taking place every Saturday for some time and it’s become the dance anthem Mecca of Peterborough.

Take a look for yourself on the birthday weekend highlight – Saturday March 21 – when Steve will be working his magic alongside two very special guest DJs who need no introduction… Alex P and Seb Fontaine. Plus the ESP Paparazzi will be in the house! Entry’s free and it promises to be a birthday party to remember.

The celebrations kick off a few days earlier with the High Rollers band and Irish dancers performing for St Patrick’s Day on Tuesday March 17. Guinness is only £2.75 a pint and it’ll be rude not to.

>> Gary – time for a catch-up? >> Rob an Rai – merry birthdays >> Pam – glad the ramp worked! >> Mikey – did you find your ‘female’ actor? >> Meggie – here’s your annual shout x >> Luke – still want to discuss Carluccio’s?

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YOUTH BOXING PROJECT SEEKS FUNDING

BACK IN THE DAY:

MISS PEARS When you mention Miss Pears to anyone who was around at the time to remember it the reaction is always one of smiles and fond memories.

It was the tiniest of bars that was situated where the deli/café area of Carluccio’s is now and in the 1980s the restaurant it accompanied was the excellent (and original) Topo Gigio’s.

I was brought up around the restaurant, club and bar scene with my uncles owning the legendary Viva-La-Rock club and Papa Luigi pizza house, which was opposite the police station on the town bridge.

It meant being exposed to a new world I never knew existed. It was Peterborough after dark and the characters, trends and alternative music scenes that came with it. Viva therefore was my first taste of clubbing and nightlife, be it mainly from behind the scenes.

I wasn’t quite at the legal drinking age when Viva closed its doors for good in the late 80s but I did manage to enjoy the tail end of Miss Pears’ contribution to our city’s daytime and evening economy.

My best memories of Pears are of sunny Saturday afternoons. It was a place where we’d meet to plan the weekend. Summers back then seemed to last forever and they were always hot, which meant going into town on a Saturday was all about sitting outside Pears and people watching in your mirrored sunglasses.

It was an era where we all bought our music from Andy’s Records on

Bridge Street. I used to save up enough money to buy an Electro album once a month and one of my earliest memories was showing off my latest purchase (Electro 11) to my mates outside Pears sipping proper cappuccino.

As time went on that cappuccino was replaced with a round of Peroni for me and the boys. They were happy, carefree years when we really didn’t have anything to say to girls even if they did stop and talk.

Looking back, we pretended to like beer and our conversations were all about Vauxhall Astras and Ford Escorts – and which film we planned to sneak into the Showcase (we had a backdoor scam) to see next.

My taste in music and alcoholic beverage of choice was definitely influenced by the Miss Pears years.

Brothers Nic and Sean Iacono were running the show and had a hand in what music was played. The very first time I heard the Soul II Soul album – Club Classics, Volume One – was at Pears.

My introduction to Southern Comfort also stems from there. One of the brothers (I can’t remember which) suggested trying a Gatsby (Southern Comfort, lime and ginger ale) to go with one of the fabulous burgers (only £1!) they used to cook on a barbecue on hot Saturday afternoons.

To this day I still drink Gatsby and will always associate it with a wonderful time in my adolescence when whiling away the hours at Miss Pears was just simply the best vibe ever. Good times.

Most of us who love boxing probably spent the majority of Valentine’s Day evening glued to the television watching Cello Renda put in a warrior-like performance to reach the final of Prize Fighter for the second time in his career.

I featured Cello’s commitment to this project in my December column and how as a team they are helping to turn the lives around of children and young people thanks to the selfrespect, discipline and healthy lifestyle boxing encourages.

Our very own Italian Stallion broke his hand in the first fight of the evening but soldiered on to reach the final where, after a blazing start he was edged out and finished runner up.

The project is now at a stage where funding or sponsorship is required to ensure the work Cello, Scott and Wayne are doing is sustainable.

Anyone who watched Cello perform will testify he did himself and his city proud. Cello has always behaved like a champion in and out of the ring and his passion and dedication to boxing continues to win him more fans with every performance.

But it’s his commitment outside of the ring that’s winning his biggest followers. Cello’s part of the Peterborough Youth Boxing Project – an initiative founded by PC Scott Lloyd and Wayne Stainsby at Peterborough City Council.

With Cello playing a pivotal role the project has been delivering free noncontact boxing sessions and classroom talks on social inclusion to local schools in Peterborough for more than a year.

Scott told me – “The project is focusing on some areas of the city where we want to get children active and give them something positive to focus on away from anti-social behaviour, gangs, knife culture and alcohol abuse.

“We want this education to be available to them with no admission fee and it’s an opportunity for a local business to come forward and support the excellent work we’re doing, which has already demonstrated positive outcomes.”

Anyone interested in supporting the good work of the Peterborough Youth Boxing Project can contact Scott by email scott.lloyd@peterborough.gov.uk or call 07525 227344.

BRILL BILL I couldn’t wait to try it and I wasn’t disappointed.

Although I’ve only been once I have to say new city centre restaurant Bill’s is spot on. Consistency is king with restaurants and I really do hope my next visit is as good as my first.

My succulent (and hot) duck pie was excellent and the tasty mezze starter before it was

demolished within minutes. The service was polite and attentive and the house red didn’t give me acid reflux for a change.

Bill’s gives off an ambience that kind of makes you feel special (particularly sat under a big chandelier) and a bit gooey inside. I’ll be back for more.

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before so we had a great relationship and the truth is that there’s not much competition from the professionals ‘cause we’re all in our own ‘aquarium’ trying to get our celebrities to perform the best. I think Strictly is a very entertaining and positive show. We don’t need drama!”

After a very successful tour last year Pasha Kovalev is returning to The Cresset in Peterborough next month Sarah Tempest with his brand new show ‘Life Through Dance’. ESP reporter Sarah Tempest grabbed a word with the reigning Strictly champion to talk touring, pants and huge glitterballs…

As if I wasn’t just a little bit in love with Pasha the dancer on Strictly Come Dancing, Pasha the man proves himself to be the nicest person EVER by profusely apologising for keeping me waiting for our interview. “I’m so sorry, I was caught up recording trailers and things. I was like, ‘I have to go!’ but I’m here now, phew!” A quick glance at the clock confirmed that yes, he was indeed late – by a whole 2 minutes! This man is just scrumptious!

After winning the last series of Strictly with his celebrity dance partner Caroline Flack, Pasha is clearly still riding high on their achievement although he admits it’s still sinking in. “I still can’t believe that happened,” he laughs, “it’s magic, I keep looking at the glitterball! But it has been a long road to it. It was my third final in four years (Pasha was runner up twice, with Chelsee Healey and Kinberley Walsh) but this time was Caroline’s time!” And indeed it was, an achievement made greater by the fact that it was one of the closest run contests in years with any of the top six as potential winners. So how did Pasha feel when their names were

called in the final? “I couldn’t believe it, for the first couple of seconds I was like ‘are they calling our names ‘cause we are runner up? What’s going on?’ Then it kind of [sinked] in!

“When I found out [who the celebs were] I saw that some of them, like Frankie, Pixie and Caroline had a lot of potential and would go far so I was really happy that I was paired up with Caroline.

Even in the final did I think ‘are we going to win?’ No, I was thinking ‘we still need to put everything we got into each dance’ because it was so close. I think the way Caroline danced the show dance

But before this year’s line-up is announced, there’s the small matter of the tour of his new show ‘Life Through Dance’, which begins this month. But what can we expect from this show and how does it compare to the last one he brought to Peterborough. “Well,” he laughs,“it’s going to be better! It’s going to be new choreography, new dances, new costumes, but, like last year, we’ll have people walking out of the theatre with big smiles on their faces. I love coming to Peterborough because people enjoy what they see on the stage and that’s what makes it special for me. The audience there are absolutely amazing.”

Pasha’s shows always rely on audience participation and in previous years, he’s been asked deep searching questions such as, ‘What’s your favourite cheese?’

(I think Paxman can rest easy with that one) but on the last tour, things were stepped up a gear. “One of the most popular questions was, ‘would you marry me?’ but another popular one was ‘what kind of underwear do dancers wear? Do you wear boxers, how does it work?’”

I considered it my journalistic duty to probe Pasha’s underwear further but

‘I love coming to Peterborough… the audience there are absolutely amazing.’ was absolutely surreal and perhaps that’s what made the audience vote for us.”

Pasha clearly loves being on the show but even after changes to the professional line up last year, he refuses (try as I might!) to be drawn on backstage gossip and rivalries: “Of course you miss your ‘comrades’ like Artem and James Jordan and also Robbie (Robin Windsor) couldn’t be there but I knew all the new people from

sadly we ran out of time and knowing how Pasha hates to keep people waiting, I reluctantly let the matter drop. But, rest assured, come April, I will be rooted to a front row seat to investigate the matter close up at first hand. Purely in a professional capacity, of course.

‘Life Through Dance’ is coming to The Cresset on Saturday April 25. For tickets, call the box office on 01733 265705.

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There’s some new talent at Melanie Richards Hair Boutique … new stylist Albert has now joined their specialist team.

Albert is originally from Italy, has worked in top salons in Rome and has been carefully selected to join the award-winning Peterborough salon.

He’s a great colourist but has amazing flair when it comes to cutting so if you’re looking for a strong new look or to maintain a great style, you’re in good hands.

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His arrival brings the salon’s talented team to six along with a creative nail technician and during March there’s a special ESP reader offer available of a Cut & Blowdry with Albert just £25.

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GET

INSPIRED… Local guy Darren Grigas is about to embark on the adventure of a lifetime. He’s one of just a few to do it and he’ll be sharing a tent with none other than explorer Sir Ranulph Fiennes. After all the training, blood sweat and tears it’s time to hit the desert…

Darren’s frequently been seen donning some cool gear modelling on our ESP fashion pages but when it comes to being suited and booted for this challenge we’re talking back pack and trainers rather than a Ted Baker suit!

runners taking part and even less actually completing it; he’s set to become part of a very elite group!

Arthur's Seat, Edinburgh

As the day draws nearer when his goal to run the ‘toughest foot race on earth’ – the Marathon des Sables – becomes a reality you’d think he’d be getting a little nervous but there’s a glint in his eye of genuine enthusiasm and his excitement is infectious.

20 miles up and over Snowdon

A coastal run in Reykjavik Iceland

“It’s just about building it into your life...”

Once Darren decided to go for this incredible challenge he began a journey to transform himself from a 4 miler on the running stakes into an ‘ultra runner’. We’re not just talking running a bit further than usual, this is 6 marathons back to back in the sweltering heat kind of thing. In a word ‘tough’! But not only that he’s had to become well versed in everything from nutrition, running gear and his own physiology! You tend to break a few things doing extreme challenges like this and he can readily recount the various muscle strains and aches and pains he’s suffered during training.

So you’re reading this thinking ‘the bloke’s bonkers’ but hopefully you might also be thinking ‘well if he can go from four miles to 156… maybe I can get a bit fitter’.

He’s certainly a determined guy, he’s set his mind to it and cracked on but he believes we all can in even in our own small way – “It’s just about building it into your life rather than adding exercise on top otherwise you’ll always find a reason not to. It’s been great to have people come up to me and say I’ve inspired them to take on a challenge or start getting fitter themselves.”

Darren’s journey to this point has meant a solid year of commitment he just couldn’t back down on, he’s run his first marathon, taken part in the Rat Race at Burghley House completed the Druid Challenge and a 20 mile race from sea-level up and over the summit of Snowdon.

During the Marathon des Sables he’s been lucky enough to find himself sharing a tent with none other than the ‘world’s greatest living explorer’ Sir Ranulph Fiennes, a gritty contender if ever there was one and a witty raconteur. We’re sure Darren’s going to dine out for years on the many stories he’ll be hearing from this amazing man, let alone his own experiences of the race! “He’s actually a very humble man,” says Darren. “Being part of the race is a great experience in itself for me but to be sharing a tent with such a great man is just the cherry on the top!”

It was important to Darren to use this incredible personal challenge to not only achieve something for himself but for it to do good too and he’s chosen to fundraise for Stamford based charity Anna’s Hope which raises money for children with brain tumours.

He’s set a target of £10,000 and you can support him on www.justgiving.com/ darrengrigas or text: DUNE51 £5 to 70070.

Darren will be competing in the race in April – wish him luck, and donate a few quid if you can folks!

Easier said than done you might think but Darren’s a busy bloke and yet somehow manages to cram in around 60-70 miles a week, plus 3-4 gym/circuit training sessions at Vivacity Premier Fitness plus sometimes cycling around 50-75 miles a week on top!

Becoming a part of this race is an achievement in itself as it fills up within minutes once entries open and with only around a thousand

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During the Rat Race

45 Years Experience

ANNAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S HOPE Annaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hope was inspired by Anna Olivia Hughes who died from a brain tumour in 2006 aged just 3 years 8 months. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a local charity and supports children and young people in this region with brain tumours so you can rest assured your money is staying in the area and is well spent.

The charity was set up Annaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s parents, Carole and Rob Hughes who told ESP â&#x20AC;&#x201C; â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a specialist nurse who provides support for the child and the parents in the hospital and in the local community. The â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Annaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hope Therapy Teamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; which includes Specialist Physiotherapists, an Occupational Therapist and a Speech and Language Therapist. Together they support a pioneering new initiative at Addenbrookes Hospital called Brainbow. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the first of its kind in the UK and gives comprehensive rehabilitation support during and after treatment.â&#x20AC;?

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CHARITY NIGHT & RAFFLE To help raise even more cash for Annaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hope, Darrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s organised a charity night on March 21 at the Rose & Crown in Thorney including an auction and live music from a talented local lad Jake Daniels.

On that evening heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll draw the entries to a huge raffle heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s put together with some fantastic prizes. To enter just go to www.justgiving.com/annasraffle and you can also view the prize list on www.facebook.com/AnnasHopeEvents For every ÂŁ5 donated you get one entry to win some great prizes including: â&#x20AC;˘ 10 nights in the Caribbean (flights not included) â&#x20AC;˘ A full Spa Day for two at Orton Hall (ÂŁ200 cost) â&#x20AC;˘ A design and full day's Tattoo session (up to 8 hours!) - this is worth about ÂŁ500 so should be very popular. â&#x20AC;˘ A Hot Air Balloon Ride â&#x20AC;˘ A glider flight to 2000ft â&#x20AC;˘ A brand new Audi TT for a 4 day weekend â&#x20AC;˘ 4x MOT & Wheel Alignment â&#x20AC;˘ Family passes to Burghley House, Grimsthorpe Castle, Sealife Centre, Nene Valley Railway... and loads more!

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FEELING INSPIREDâ&#x20AC;Ś?

So Darrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an ordinary Thorney guy whoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s set himself an extraordinary challenge, few of us could achieve that, but if heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s inspired you he says the easiest way to get yourself started is to have a goal to aim for. So if you want to get fitter or motivated here are a few smaller scale challenges you could aim for this yearâ&#x20AC;Ś Rat Race â&#x20AC;&#x201C; May 9 The Rat Race Dirty Weekend at Burghley House is the World's Biggest Assault Course, and consists of 2 options: The Full Mucker (20 miles) and Half Mucker (13 miles) option for those who want most of the obstacles but who find the full distance a little much. www.ratracedirtyweekend.com Pretty Muddy â&#x20AC;&#x201C; June 21 Pretty Muddy is a women-only, noncompetitive 5k obstacle course â&#x20AC;&#x201C; with added mud. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s taking place at Peterborough Arena and women of any ability can climb, jog and walk the course. Go to www.raceforlife.org search events, pretty muddy.

Shine Megacycle â&#x20AC;&#x201C; July 4 New cycling event at Ferry

Meadows. The routes offer something for everyone and people can choose from 3 miles, which is ideal for children and pushchairs, 15 miles, or 30 miles, wheelchair users can complete all three too. www.shinemegacycle.org.uk Race for Life â&#x20AC;&#x201C; July 7 Cancer Research UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Race for Life is a 5k course for women only at Ferry Meadows to raise money for life-saving research. To enter go to www.raceforlife.org or call 0300 123 0770.

Perkins Great Eastern Run â&#x20AC;&#x201C; October 11 Whether itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the 5k fun run to get you started or the challenge of the half marathon this local race takes you on a flat, city route and has a fabulous atmosphere. Enter at www.perkinsgreateasternrun.co.uk

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The Blue Bell

(Werrington)

The Blue Bell in Werrington is under new management and there is one word in mind for the landlady, community!

Helen Warby is looking to bring back some community spirit, whilst dishing up tasty fresh food and pouring a good pint too. Making her mark on the pub since December 1, Helen has embraced Landlady, Helen Warby every aspect of running a local pub and has high hopes to embed the pub back into the community.

Helen tells ESP: “I think it’s important that The Blue Bell plays an important role in Werrington as a community pub. We’re sponsoring the Werrington Scout and Guide Carnival which is a great pleasure to do on our behalf, and also shows how serious we are about not only being a first class public house, but also being the community hub of Werrington.

“I have a large function room that’s used for birthdays, wedding and wakes, and I want to encourage local people to make the most of it too. We already have a craft club using it, anyone is welcome and all I ask is that a donation is made to my chosen charity, Breast Cancer UK.”

Open from 12 noon to midnight seven days a week, serving breakfast, lunch and roast dinners, offering 8 real ales, lagers, wines and prosecco, The Blue Bell has two bars, and a generous space outside which is perfect to accommodate Helen's big plans.

Inspired by the good old fashioned boozer, Helen will be making sure that every weekend there’s something for people to look forward to with a string of comedy nights, first class tribute acts, Saturday night discos, bank holiday beer festivals, summer time wedding fayres, ladies’ nights and more in the pipeline.

Helen continues: “I want people to be able to have a good time in Werrington so by offering a variety of entertainment each weekend, we’re making sure all ages and tastes are catered for.

We look forward to welcoming back our regulars as well as new customers.”

Book now for Mother's Day Afternoon Tea - £12 per person and this includes sandwiches, cakes, prosecco and tea.

The Blue Bell, 6 The Green, Werrington, Peterborough, PE4 6RU Tel: 01733 571264

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

Staniland Way, Werrington Tel: 01733 327696

www.theploughman-werrington.com

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

Hodgson Avenue, Werrington Tel: 01733 578088

The

Heron

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It’s time to shake off those heavy winter looks and dive into the rails of brand new gear heading our way. Look out for leather and faux leather cropping up in all sorts of ways – we’ve selected a gorgeously sexy pencil skirt for our shoot here.

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Interview

Siberia receives its UK premiere on PickTV, starring a local actor!

ESP’s Mikey Clarke grabs a few words with Peterborough’s Neeko Skervin, star of the new survivalist drama series Siberia.

Photos: Andy Vernum @ Studio One

Omar ‘Neeko’ Skervin grew up in the city and went to Watergall school and Walton school (now Voyager Academy) before bravely heading off to try and find acting fame five years ago.

You may have seen the new amockreality drama series which recently launched on Pick. The ensemble cast includes Joyce Giraud (The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo), Johnny Wactor (Vampire Diaries), Esther Anderson (Home and Away), Natalie Scheetz (Madison County). Another star of the show is Neeko Skervin, an actor from Peterborough. I was lucky enough to grab an exclusive interview with him.

For those unfamiliar with the TV Programme, I asked Neeko to explain the concept. “Siberia is a drama showing a group of contestants that are competing for $500,000,” he told me.

“All they have to do is survive from winter to summer, and whoever is left gets to share the money. It’s not long before things start to go badly.”

All the characters in the show are named after the actors playing them.

Neeko said, “It was a last minute decision from the producers. When I received the script, my character’s name was Paul. It was decided that it gave more authenticity to the show.”

The local actor shares more than just a name with his character. “We have a lot in common,” he told me. “It made it easier for me to get the part. My character and I are both competitive, head-strong and definitely not a quitter.”

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The opportunity of starring in this television show came after moving to Los Angeles. Neeko described the transition of going from Peterborough to L.A. as – “Not smooth sailing. Going from the safe haven of your own home to one of the toughest cities to survive in wasn’t easy. I was living in a hostel house with 20 other people and working as a waiter to pay the bills.

At the start of the year, thousands of people enter Los Angeles to try and be somebody. By the end of the year, thousands leave – after realising how difficult it is. I desperately didn’t want to be one of those that left with nothing, but after five years I thought maybe I had to. I was literally looking at flights home when the audition for Siberia came to my attention. It was meant to be.”

So, what does the future hold for our local star? “I am so thankful to have been given the opportunity of starring in this show. If something else happens from the exposure of being on it, great.

But if not, I’m more than grateful enough already.”

Steven Ladlow (Director of Pick) also commented on the show, saying, “From surviving in the wilderness eating live bugs on TV or being dressed in a leotard acting like a cat, there’s not much the reality genre hasn’t covered, and Siberia imagines what could happen if something went drastically wrong with a reality show. Playing on what’s real to the viewer and what’s not, this mock-reality series is a unique drama and one which I know will have Pick viewers on the edge of their seats with excitement.”

During my interview with Neeko – amongst other things – we discussed something that went seriously wrong on set and whether or not we’ll be seeing a second series. Check it out at www.espmag.co.uk.

If you haven’t seen Siberia yet, do your best to catch it on repeat.

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Mitch Brewster captures the action at Edwards Bar.

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aught in the act?

Launch party celebrations at the Bella Mia salon in Stanground.

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She’s a global superstar so it’s no surprise the announcement of her forthcoming June gig at Newmarket Races sold out within minutes.

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aving recently seen her in concert on her latest tour for Kiss Me Once it was clear to see why she’s still hot property… and she’s definitely still looking hot too! Does this woman never age?!

Recently seen glamming it up and looking fantastic at various after show parties following the Oscars it’s still hard to believe she’s now 46.

At home in some of the world’s biggest and best arenas, Kylie is renowned for her spectacular live shows. Since she celebrated her first UK No.1 in 1987 she’s remained at the forefront of pop

culture ever since, selling over 70million records worldwide and releasing her 12th studio album Kiss Me Once last year. With her incredible back catalogue, featuring 44 UK Top 40 hits, Kylie will be playing her classic hits old and new when she brings glamour to the Grandstands.

Kylie said – "I’m so excited to be performing at ‘An Evening At The Races’. I have an amazing band and fabulous dancers and we can’t wait to share my hits with you in a beautiful summer outdoor show. Being from a horse racing city like Melbourne, I’ll be sure to have a flutter on the horses myself!"

Following Kylie’s appearance at Newmarket will be a show featuring none other than Ricky Wilson and his band the Kaiser Chiefs in July. They of course appeared together as coaches on BBC1’s The Voice last year before Kylie gave up her red chair and Rita Ora slid into the hot seat for the current series.

“For any artist the voice is important,” she says, “but when it’s past that stage of concentrating on a voice, it’s no longer about one thing – it’s about everything. I mean, maybe they wouldn’t have turned their chairs around for me if I was brave enough to go on that show when I first started out – but hey, I did okay.”

68 million record sales later Kylie has, indeed, done okay.

“I didn’t even think about longevity at the beginning,” Kylie recalls. “I was just happy and probably quite stunned that I was in the music industry at all. It took me a long time to really, truly believe I was part of it.”

This time last year Kylie released her album Kiss Me Once on Parlophone her first studio album since 2010’s Aphrodite, and her first since signing to Roc Nation Management. The album saw her make a clear return to the dance floor after 2012’s Abbey Road Sessions. It was executive produced by Kylie and Sia, who co-wrote the title track.

Kylie said – "Making that album was quite a journey but I loved it!

It was through a time in my life where there were a lot of changes and new beginnings.

“I had what I can only describe as an epiphany,” she says. “I saw a horizon and for the first time I could remember, there was nothing on it. I knew I could make some changes, and I knew I needed to make changes. Big changes.”

Back in 2012, Kylie Minogue marked a quarter of a century in pop with K25, a twelve-monthlong series of events, releases and retrospectives. At the end of all that, change was indeed on the cards. She parted ways, on good terms, with the manager who’d been with her from the start and looked ahead to a fresh future.

She was most definitely done with looking back and signed with Roc Nation management where new doors were suddenly unlocked.

As Kylie’s fans, peers and even critics know all too well, the chance of Kylie putting her feet up for long is fairly remote. After the extensive Kiss Me Once tour she’s now doing various special gigs and will be headlining at the Summer Time Festival in Hyde Park in June and the Melt Festival in Germany this July.

Kylie now seems completely comfortable with who she is as a person, where she is in her career and what she is as a pop entity.

“It took me a long time to realise that what I am is a number of things,” she says now. “And it took a lot of hard work to get to the stage where people would allow me to be all those things.

The idea that if you’re one thing, you can’t also be another: I just didn’t get it. If someone asked me to choose which Kylie to be, I’d have to choose the Kylie I am: every Kylie. I’m not doing anything by halves at the moment.” www.kylie.com

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Photo: BBC/Ray Burmiston

Kylie Minogue

Whether you’re a hairdressing student or a salon owner looking to build your team. El esha is here to help… plenty of time with each student. Another unique advantage is that all training is done in a salon environment giving you invaluable salon experience.”

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l esha run apprenticeships through Cheynes training to teach young people hairdressing, offering in house training to independent students and giving salons around the city the opportunity to have their apprentices trained in a salon environment.

Jayne Reynolds has been in the hairdressing industry for over 30 years and launched El esha in 2003 – she’s clearly lost none of her passion for it.

“I believe young people should be educated to the highest level,” she explains “it’s lovely to watch somebody grow into a great hairdresser. I want there to be great hair designers out there, enthusiastic and educated people who have fallen in love with our industry.”

Jayne and her team invest a huge amount of time and effort in offering this training to produce hairdressing talent of the future.

“This is something we dedicate a lot of time and effort too. Our intention Is to encourage young hairdressers to want to learn more about our industry.

“We also like to work closely with the salon owner so we can develop any specific skills they feel are important for their trainee. We have received positive feedback from the salon owners we are working with.

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Their intent to promote an interest in hairdressing even stretches to local school students with Claudia, another long standing member of the team, sharing her expertise with work experience students.

Dedicated to continually updating their own skills too, every year some of the team travel to Italy to brush up on the very latest colouring techniques and in April there’s a fabulous ‘colour sale’ coming up at El esha when you can get a great new look for a great price.

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Battle Stations ESP’s Mikey Clarke caught up with Peterborough singers Vanessa Hunt and Classical Reflection as they prepare to go into battle with the other contestants on BBC TV’s The Voice…

Vanessa Hunt

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ans of The Voice will know that we have yet another local singer on the popular television show.

Hey, we always knew this city had penty of talent!

I was lucky enough to catch up with Vanessa Hunt shortly after her performance.

Vanessa impressed the judges with a version of Sunshine of Your Love – which you may have heard her sing locally?“I used to sing in a local band called The Soft Tone Needles, who are a northern soul tribute band – and that is the version we used to do. It’s a version by somebody called Spanky Wilson. To be honest I’ve not heard the Cream version – I’ve always known the Spanky version of it.”

The 27 year-old from Wisbech performs all over the country but her day job in Peterborough is a slightly less glamorous role selling products for a cleaning company!

Her passion has always been singing which she says she’s done “virtually since she could talk!”

The local singer has been performing for years and is still gigging in and around Peterborough.“The band I’m currently in is called The Look,” she told me.“My boyfriend and I go out as an 80’s tribute band and also as a general function band. We gig all over the country – and the world in fact. We’ve signed up with Royal Caribbean and have four cruises lined up for this year.”

Despite performing with her partner, Vanessa decided to apply for The Voice on her own.“We do so much together already,” she said.“We even share the same hobbies such as wakeboarding. We both think it’s important to do our own things as well. For a change, I wanted to perform as just me. And to be honest, I think he’d be a little too shy for the show.”

For those who haven’t seen the programme, The Voice is a singing competition that begins with ‘blind’ auditions. The four coaches – Ricky Wilson, Will.i.am, Sir Tom Jones plus newbie Rita Ora – listen to the contestants in chairs with their backs to the stage so that they can’t see them, then press a button and swivel round if they like the sound of them. If more than one coach presses their button, the contestant chooses the coach he or she wants to work with. All of them except Will.i.am turned for Vanessa – and she chose Rita to be her mentor. I wondered what the stars were like behind the scenes. “When you see the judges in their chairs, you see them as celebrities.

When you see them in an off-camera situation, they’re just like everyone else,” Vanessa told me. “They still look glamorous, but the way they talk is more like you and I. I’ve heard Rita talking about how nervous she is before the cameras start rolling and even recall walking past Tom Jones as he was talking about grapes!”

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Longthorpe twins Hannah and Naomi Moxon, Classical Reflection, are of course also contestants on the show. I wondered whether Vanessa had the pleasure of meeting them too.

“There’s a lot of waiting around behind the scenes, so I spent a lot of time with the twins,” she said.

“They’re lovely girls. I kept asking them to sing for me, and although I have no plans to get married just yet, I’ve asked if they’ll sing at my wedding.”

I put that to the Classical Reflection girls and it’s game on – “Vanessa has an amazing voice,” Hannah and Naomi told me. “Whenever she sings it gives us goosebumps. She mentioned about us one day singing at her wedding… we would of course love to! Give us a date and we’ll be there. We’d also love to duet with her.”

So, now it’s into the Battle Rounds to see who progresses in the competition and both acts are hoping to go as far as they can. Vanessa says whatever happens though, she’s just rolling with the experience – “I hope to do all I can with the exposure – whether that’s acting, singing, dancing or modelling. If I can make a living from doing any of those things that I love, I’ll be extremely happy.”

Fancy getting an autograph or selfie with the singer? She can often be seen out and about locally.

“My boyfriend and I have a bit of an addiction to going to the cinema. We have a new cinema in Wisbech but we usually go to the Showcase. We love their popcorn. Without sounding too much like we’re promoting the place, my boyfriend has been known to drive to the Showcase from Wisbech just to get some popcorn. We’re also big fans of the Bombay Brasserie.”

Round two of The Voice is the Battle Round, where judges put two of their own team members together to compete against each other so fingers crossed for Vanessa and of course Classical Reflection. Keep checking www.espmag.co.uk for local news and updates as they happen. Also, check out the website for the rest of my interview with Vanessa – where we discussed why she chose Rita as her mentor and more about her experience of being on the show.

T

he 19 year-old twins Classical Reflection appeared on the hit BBC talent series last month in the blind auditions. Kaiser Chiefs frontman Ricky Wilson turned his chair – meaning they’d made it through the first round of the show. Soon after their television debut, I met up with Hannah and Naomi for an exclusive ESP interview. You can read it on our website – www.espmag.co.uk.

It’s been a few weeks now since we last saw Classical Reflection on screen and their round 2 appearance is getting closer. I caught up with the girls once again to see how they’re doing.

“We’re just as overwhelmed by the experience as we were the first time we spoke to you,” they told me. “The overall experience of being on the show is something so special and unforgettable. It gives such a great platform for people to hear your music and we have definitely grown as people as well as artists. We even overcame a massive fear of lifts through being on the show. It’s still very exciting!”

During our first interview, the girls spoke highly of their mentor Ricky. It’s good to see that the passion towards him is still there. “We love that he follows us on Twitter. We haven’t seen him in concert yet, but hopefully will soon.”

They’ve both been interviewed numerous times now. I wanted to know a couple of things that no other interviewee knew. After giving it some thought they said – “We were in hair and makeup for two hours each before going onto the show, which was actually really fun. Another fact is that we’ve come up with a special walk to come on to for the Battle Round – with some inspiration from Beyoncé’s Crazy in Love.”

The twins couldn’t tell me what they’d be singing during round two, but explained – “We think you will all be very surprised with the song choice. We’re certainly going out of our comfort zone, but sometimes it’s good to push yourself.”

I wanted to know more about the whole ‘Twin Thing’, asking whether or not they use the fact they’re identical to their advantage. “Actually yes,” they laughed. “We have taken each other’s shifts at work in the past.” And could they be a little bit telepathic? “We only have to look at the other one to know what they are thinking. It’s quite useful when you need to get out of an awkward situation.”

So, what does the future hold? “We recently discussed our long term goals and dreams,” they said. “We pinned them up on the wall so when we hopefully achieve them we can cross them off. We would love to sing at the Royal Albert Hall one day and sing on a film score for a big movie. They are quite big dreams but we are really set on making them come true. We are going to work really hard to make these dreams a reality.”

The Voice airs on BBC One every Saturday. Keep watching to support the twins and Vanessa during the Battle Rounds this month. Are they nervous about it? Again – find out from our first chat on our website.

Photo: BBC/Wall to Wall

Photos: Andy Vernum @ Studio One

Classical Reflection

www.espmag.co.uk

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Gavin Miller’s

gavin.miller@espmag.co.uk Released

Movie Previews

MAR

CINDERELLA 27 Cast: Lily James, Cate Blanchett, Helena Bonham Carter Director: Kenneth Branagh After the massive success of Alice in Wonderland and Maleficent, Disney continues its recent trend of turning some of its fairy tales into full-blown blockbuster spectacles.

British thesp Kenneth Branagh – after flexing his blockbuster muscles at the House of Mouse’s sister studios Marvel with Thor – is on directing duties to add a

Released

few new visionary twists to the classic tale.

Downtown Abbey’s Lily James stars as the title character – who ends up winning the heart of a prince – with two-time Oscar-winner Cate Blanchett as her bullying wicked step-mother Lady Tremaine and Helena Bonham Carter as Ella’s Fairy Godmother.

Throw in a few other talented Brit stars like Hayley Atwell, Holliday Granger, Ben Chaplin and Derek Jacobi – alongside some positive early reviews as we go to press – and Disney’s got all the ingredients for another boxoffice hit.

THE DIVERGENT SERIES: INSURGENT

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THE SPONGEBOB MOVIE: SPONGE OUT OF WATER

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Cast: Shailene Woodley, Theo James, Kate Winslet Shailene Woodley returns as Tris Prior – alongside her The Fault in Our Stars co-star Ansel Elgort – in this inevitable sequel to last year’s profitable The Hunger Games-esque sci-fi adventure Divergent. This time she must confront her inner demons as a fugitive on the run – alongside Four (Theo James) – being hunted by Kate Winslet’s power-hungry leader of the alliance who will do anything to stop her. Naomi Watts joins the noteworthy cast, which boasts the likes of Miles Teller, Ashley Judd and Jai Courtney.

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

Voice cast: Tom Kenny, Bill Fagerbakke, Antonio Banderas After a stellar $55million opening at the US Box Office, it shows this legendary Nickleodeon cartoon character has kept his sea legs – seemingly a decade past his heyday. This fun family-adventure cleverly mixes live-action 3D animation (think Smurfs) – complete with a superhero-themed arc – alongside the classic 2D, to create a colourful outing which sees Spongebob team up with his nemesis Plankton to get back the secret Krabby Patty formula, stolen by Antonio Banderas’ nefarious pirate Burger Beard.

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MAR

STILL ALICE

RUN ALL NIGHT

By the time you’ve read this, Julianne Moore should have notched a Best Actress Oscar for this inspirational and gripping performance as a renowned linguistics professor – happily married with three children (including Twilight’s Kristen Stewart) – who battles the devastating diagnosis of Early-Onset Alzheimer’s Disease.

Liam Neeson continues to do what he does best – by starring in a high-octane action-thriller that looks stereotypically like his other recent work. This time he plays an ageing Brooklyn hitman for the mob who is forced to protect his estranged son (Robocop’s Joel Kinnaman) and his family from his brutal former boss (Ed Harris).

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HOME

THE GUNMAN

GET HARD

The latest animation from Dreamworks sees The Big Bang Theory’s Jim Parsons voice a lovable alien misfit from another planet, who befriends an adventurous girl (voiced by Rihanna) on Earth – who together through a series of comic adventures discover the true meaning of the word ‘home’. Steve Martin also co-stars.

Oscar-winner Sean Penn (Mystic River) stars as a former Special Forces soldier who is trying to reconnect with the love of his life, despite suffering from PTSD. But first he must go on the run across Europe to clear his name in this well-cast action-drama that co-stars Javier Bardem, Idris Elba and Ray Winstone.

When Will Ferrell’s millionaire investment banker gets ten years in prison after wrongly being convicted for fraud, he hires the man who washes his car (Ride Along’s Kevin Hart) to prep him for his long stint behind bars – ignorantly assuming he’s ‘done time’ due to the colour of his skin – in this comedy flick.

FILM REVIEW:

CHAPPIE Cast: Hugh Jackman, Sigourney Weaver, Dev Patel Director: Neill Blomkamp Visionary director Neill Blomkamp continues his impressive run in the sci-fi genre after the highly-acclaimed District 9 – and to a lesser-extent Elysium – with his latest near-future techinspired experience.

With crime patrolled by an oppressive robotic force, the people are starting to fight back, and after they steal a police droid and program him to become ‘Chappie’ – with the ability to think and feel for himself – powerful and destructive forces soon see this new robot as a danger to mankind.

Led by Hugh Jackman’s bad guy Vincent Moore, the authorities will

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herself wanting to get close to the man who seemingly has everything when he shows an intense interest in her.

stop at nothing to maintain the status quo to take out Chappie (played via animatronics by District 9 lead Sharlto Copley) – who must be kept out of harm’s way by Dev Patel’s (Slumdog Millionaire) Deon Wilson and pals, while being an inspiration to a potential uprising.

The joy of the hunt has never been so satisfying than in 2K’s revolutionary new multiplayer shooter that truly evolves the genre.

With multiple gaming modes – Hunt, Nest, Rescue and Defend – you have the option to grab three friends to hunt the monsters, or stalk the humans as the super-evolved beast, with several exciting mini-story variations on the theme.

You even have the ability to choose your own hunting style, by playing as the Trapper, Medic, Assault or Support, with up to 12 unlockable human characters, or three hulking behemoths if you choose the monster route.

Set on a beautifully-realised planet, this game is a clever tactical dream, with a notable progression system, but that in the end is the game’s only undoing – as getting some of the options unlocked can be a bit of an unnecessary grind.

But fortunately this is the only initial limitation in a game that offers so much – both aesthetically and mechanically – and shows that next-gen consoles are starting to offer different experiences from last-gen.

Become the hunter or the hunted as you do the monster mash...

DYING LIGHT (XONE/PS4/PC)

Warner Bros and developers Techland really give gamers something to get their teeth into with this zombie-infested open world action-adventure.

The team behind the successful first Dead Island game (and follow-up Riptide) do a top-notch job with the first major release of the year – as you enter the vastly dangerous urban playground of survival horror Dying Light.

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Fifty Shades of Grey – like the title – leaves you with multiple thoughts of different shades that leave your view of this sadomasochistic-tinged romantic-drama in a grey area.

EVOLVE (XONE/PS4/PC)

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FILM REVIEW: FIFTY SHADES OF GREY

It’s a bit of a slow-burner at first, but soon scavenging this expansive world for weaponry and taking out ‘weaker’ members of the infected population soon becomes a lot of fun, particularly with friends who can jump-in with the co-op mode.

The combat can be a bit clunky within the fairly uninspiring main story, but the side missions – which can put you in some truly precarious situations – really add longevity to the game, which really comes alive when more aggressive predators enter the fray during the night.

Throw in a ‘Be the Zombie’ mode, and you’ve got a truly rewarding title that should leave fans of the ‘undead’ revelling in the ensuing carnage.

But the naïve Steele soon realises the tormented Grey is consumed by the need to control everything – and wants to introduce her to his singular kinky and sadomasochistic sexual tastes that will test their relationship to the full.

The over-riding factor is that overall it’s ‘more enjoyable than expected’ – with its fair share of laughs and intriguing scenes – but you are left scratching your head with a ‘so what was all the hype about?’ moment.

Being assured (by my fiancée!) that it was never just about the ‘sexual escapades’ and actually gets more intense with the next books – and inevitable film sequels after it took $250m worldwide on its opening weekend – then this is intriguing enough to leave you hankering for more.

A bit like what the Twilight Saga was to the teen market: extremely wooden, sometimes with poor dialogue – but you still invested enough in the amiable characters to want to see it through until the final film.

And while these exploits – which to be honest have been done across film mediums before and aren’t as head-turning as some might have expected – may give the uninitiated the wrong idea about what the film is about, it is still actually just a romance at heart.

If you get past the all-round fairly shoddily-executed production, the movie is simply made interesting by wanting to find out more about why the tormented soul that is Christian Grey is so, erm, messed up.

If you’re not expecting too much, then the amiable leads, few decent laugh-out-loud laughs, kinky sex scenes (if that’s your bag), and the need to find out more means Fifty Shades just about whips up a passable cinema-going experience.

Just don’t expect too much beyond that.

And Fifty Shades IS extremely wooden, and suffers from poor dialogue. Apparently the script is kept close to EL James’ ubersuccessful novel – much to the chagrin of hampered director Sam Taylor-Johnson – which will probably make fans of the book happy, but is probably a bit too clichéd for your casual cinema fan.

If you’ve been stuck behind a rock and don’t know the story, Fifty Shades sees timid literature student Anastasia Steele interview the wealthy billionaire Christian Grey – a handsome, brilliant, but intimidating individual – and finds

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NEW REG WHEELS It’s that exciting time of the year as not only is the weather getting better for biking but March 1 brings us the first of the new ‘15’ registration plates out on the road. If you have ever promised yourself a new bike on a new prefix then now is the time. At Wheels Motorcycles in Fengate they have hundreds of bikes available from top brands like Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki and Aprilia as well as Piaggio and Vespa. If you’re a sports rider, tourer or just getting started out give the guys a call to see how they can help get you on the road.

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put my finger the biggest fan of Porsches. I can’t I have a confession to make. I’m not e fanatics sch Por to se al statement, so I apologi on why and I know it’s a controversi ut! abo ing talk I’m t I haven’t got a clue wha who are probably reading thinking

Photos: Christian Bryan

James told ESP: “I’d wanted a 930 since a family friend had turned up with a red one when I was 14. It scared me to death as the acceleration was – and still is – incredible. It blurs your spherical vision.

D

on’t get me wrong, I wouldn’t return one if it was given to me and although the Cayman, for example, is arguably the best value Porsche out there, it’s the iconic 911 that I’d lean towards if I was to own one.

I can appreciate its classic shape, superb handling and sound engineering – especially the older models, as these are more raw and have the most character.

So I guess I can see why James Bryan from Stamford loves his 930 so much. He’s owned it a couple of years and swapped a Farboud GTS prototype for it.

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“The shape of the wide body 930 (911) turbo is arguably the most beautiful of the iconic air-cooled Porsches and it’s definitely the most dangerous to drive. There’s loads of power and back in the day they were known as ‘the widow maker’, contributing to the demise of many 1980's stockbrokers and property developers!”

James is right. It seems that most successful city-types owned a Porsche 30 years ago. Back then they were value for money (they still are) and one of the most common compliments Porsche drivers give their cars is the fact they’re relatively practical to live with compared to their supercar counterparts.

But despite being able to use his 930 with ease for a trip to the corner shop, James is sensible enough not to underestimate what’s under his right foot.

“It's taken me a couple of years to learn how to drive it properly.

Once dialled in and committed there aren’t many cars that will keep up with it, even today. The howl the car makes at full power is unique and when you let off it throws flames out of its pipes. This is due to the early fuel injection system, which is why the bumper on the left is a little singed.

“It attracts attention but is not too showy to offend. To most people it is just an old 911 but to the astute car buff it’s a 930 turbo.”

James is clearly passionate about his Porsche, but would he be tempted to part with it for something different?

“Probably, but it would be hard as I've put a lot of time and effort into rebuilding the engine and getting it running how I like. It’s also helped me through a difficult time in my life and some things mean more than money.”

We’ve enjoyed featuring our first Porsche in Pride and Joy. What’s yours? We want to hear from you no matter what car or motorcycle you own or used to own. The most important thing is sharing the love for your vehicle with us!

Email office@espmag.co.uk

They have many of the latest models as demonstrators so you can give the bikes a try and really get a feel for a machine before making your decision.

Give them a bell on 01733 358555.

Happy riding!

EGG RUN IS CRACKING EVENT Hundreds of scooterists will be taking to the roads on Saturday March 28 for the annual Peterborough Scooter Club’s 18th Egg Run and it’s a real sight to see!

It’s even better to be a part of it as I’ve been lucky enough to do on several occasions, so if you have a Lambretta or Scooter join in – it’s open to all.

They’ll be transporting as many Easter eggs as they can to Sue Ryder Hospice, Manor Respite Centre and Peterborough Children’s Ward.

The rdiers set off from the Cherry Tree pub on Oundle Road at 1pm but there’s evening entertainment at The Fleet in Fletton with performances by The Off-Beats, plus DJs Oxford Paul and Paul Davis. Entry is from 7.30pm and admission is £5. For tickets call Tony on: 07938 436429.

SEE OUR WONDERFUL DISPLAY OF â&#x20AC;&#x153;NEWâ&#x20AC;? CATERING EQUIPMENT

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

Come and visit us at our new showroom We are excited to introduce the Rational Oven cook live demo. Give us a call or visit our website for further details.

Padholme Road East, Peterborough PE1 5XL

Tel 01733 561555 www.caterfix.com | e: enquiry.info@caterfix.com

Two unique sites and different styles of gaming.

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

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

Competitive Prices Private, corporate and open days catered for.

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

heaLth

Mothe

and beauty

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

charlotte.jolly@espmag.co.uk

Andrea kindly creates many of the makeup looks for our ESP shoots and always does an amazing job. Not only can you go to her for a makeover but she also teaches a variety of courses and workshops to help give you more confidence in applying your own make-up. Workshops are for you and your friends to enjoy. During the 4 hours you’ll learn everything from how to get the perfect smoky eye effect to understanding the finer points of colour & tone application. Hints and tips to make the most of your best features will also be given! The next workshops take place from mid-March at Andrea’s studio on a first come first served basis. Be warned though, spaces are filling up quickly! To book a place for you and your friends (max 6 people per workshop) email information@andreaconnor.co.uk. There’s 50% off for ESP readers.

anDrea’s Make-up Motives Peterborough makeup artist Andrea Connor has over 20 years experience in the hair and beauty industry. Having run her own salon in the past Andrea’s wide range of professional interests now include photo shoots, workshops and wedding make-up as well as mobile and salon-based work.

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On top of all that, Andrea is also excited to announce that she is the only local supplier of the award-winning American cosmetics line Motives by Loren Ridinger, which is set to be the next generation of skin care.

Simple to use and sexy to wear, it leaves you with a flawless finish and luxurious feel. The line also includes the La La range which offers products uniquely formulated for every shade of skin including darker and Asian skin tones. Check out the La La Court Eye Shadow Palette, £30.50. It features 5 mix and match mineral pressed eye shadows as well as a convenient mirror and brush. Great for quick touch ups on the go, so a feminine and flawless look is always within reach.

If you’re more of a lippy kinda girl then take a peek at the La La Mineral Lipstick range instead. With 10 colours to choose from in varying warm and cool shades there’s something for everyone. The mineral formula provides sheer yet buildable coverage and also helps to lock in moisture to condition your lips. Antioxidants protect and nourish, leaving your lips feeling soft, smooth and supple (RRP £12).

For more info from the lovely Andrea or to book onto one of her workshops please call her on 07801 987905 or email information@andreaconnor.co.uk

her’s day gifts Make sure you spoil your mum and show her how much you care this Mother’s Day with some gorgeous gifts from Beauty at Tesco.

From high end fragrance to little luxury cosmetics and skincare, there’s a range of gifts out there for all budgets…

Designer Fragrance – Gucci Guilty, £35 for 30ml or J’adore EDP 50ml, £63 are popular scents sure to put a smile on her face.

Glowing Skin – There’s nothing better than having glowing, youthful skin no matter what your age. Why not treat your mum to Clarins Flash Beauty Balm, now £19.14 or Olay Regenerist 3 Point Treatment Set £15.

Cosmetics gifts – Barbara Daly Trade Secrets Dream Shine Highlighter, £7.99, BD Trade Secrets Eyeshadow in Bon Bon £8.99 or BD Trade Secrets Luminescence Silk Primer, £9.99 will all be popular choices.

The Dessy Twist Wrap Dress now in store, endless style from just one dress with no alterations needed. Over 25 colour choices and prices start from £120.00.

Book your appointment today

Perfect Pampering gifts – Calcot Manor Mini Spa luxuries, £3, Calcot Manor Little Tubs of Softness, £9.99 and Calcot Manor Luxury Spa Hand Duo, £6.99 /blush bridalco

Let’s taLk Vintage (darLings)

The lovely beauty label The Vintage Cosmetic Company is a very different, British beauty brand. They offer a range of high quality and quintessentially British beauty accessories with a unique, feminine ‘darling’ personality that conjures up images of the glamour and charm of the much loved 1950s.

With an ever growing fan base, from retailers, press and the wonderful world of celebrities it’s easy to see why The Vintage Cosmetic Company is swooned over by women everywhere and of all ages. The fabulously floral designs look pretty yet elegant and would sit proudly on any bathroom shelf, vanity case or dressing table.

Their fast expanding product range means they can help with the everyday beauty needs of the

modern woman but with the feel and charm of days gone by, effortlessly combining affordability, efficiency and elegance with glitz and glamour.

The range includes a treasure trove of girly goodies including eyelashes, tweezers (which I have my eye on), manicure sets, make up brushes, hair accessories, gift sets and more.

So next time you decide to treat yourself or a darling friend of yours, make it count and make it Vintage! Pick yours up from Boots, Feel Unique or on their website www.thevintagecosmetics company.com

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

Karen Devine’s

WELL

karen.devine@espmag.co.uk

proudly sponsored by

BEING

ESP’s resident nutritionist says it’s time to add some raw foods to your diet…

S

pring has arrived, how we have missed her!

Many of us love this time of year and for good reasons too from the colours, blossoms, flowers, getting outdoors, freshness, temperature, longer daylight hours, and not forgetting shedding our winter wardrobe and a few extra pounds We generally feel like a good clear out of house, garden, car, office and of course our body.

One easy way to get a kick start is to add more raw plant foods to your diet. If you’re looking for extra nutrients this spring time why not make your own sprouts at home. They’re packed full of enzymes needed for energy and they’re also a powerhouse of nutrients.

When we cook foods we destroy the enzymes so we must get them back in other ways such as by adding some raw foods to our diet. We need enzymes for health and longevity so eating cooked foods will use up our own body reserves, which is OK from time to time but like your bank account, keep withdrawing and not making a deposit and it’ll soon show a deficit!

Sprouts are a transitional phase between the seed turning into a tiny plant. Many nutrients that are stored in the seed are in an unusable form, we have to find a way of releasing these nutrients. Of course cooking them is the most

Sprouting can make grains and legumes a lot easier on digestion. Many people find that sprouting seeds can allow them to enjoy the benefits of these plant foods without all the digestive distress.

‘When we cook foods we destroy the enzymes so we must get them back…’ common way but this also destroys the enzymes and we lose many of the valuable nutrients.

Soaking the seed can release enzymes that break down nutrient inhibitors such asphytic acid, and lectins amongst others (these so called anti nutrients are there to protect the seed from the harsh environment). This then allows the nutrients to be released. It’s at this stage that the sprouted plant is then higher in nutrients, and the vital enzymes.

When soaking seeds in water and then rinsing frequently we allow the softening of the husk (the outer casing), which allows a small sprout to grow. They can then be added to salads, smoothies, added on top of chopped fruits, added to healthy sandwiches, mixed into some cooked veggies, can be cooked (but this destroys the enzymes) and give flavour and texture to many raw foods.

Growing little sprouts can vary from 3-7 days, they’re an ancient but simple way to boost, revitalise and regenerate the body.

You don’t need expensive equipment either, you can buy sprouting trays or even use jam jars. I would however suggest you buy a book on sprouting which will give you step by step advice on what to sprout and how to sprout and give you many great tips including that of safety. Sprouts can harbour bacteria so care is needed, read up and follow instructions carefully for safe healthy sprouting!

If you don’t want to do this yourself then you can find sprouted plant foods in supermarkets now and also from organic veg box deliveries, making sure you read the use by date on the packet for safety reasons (pregnant women should be cautious).

In Health, Karen www.karendevine.co.uk

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This eatery at Hampton sports the more contemporary look of the new style Toby Carvery brand but still serves up the delicious roasts they’re famous for.

General manager, Sean Johnson

seasonal veg changes monthly and should have something to suit everyone’s tastes.

Photos: Chris Brudenell

“We’re celebrating the staple British cuisine that many grew up with and aim to make it as close to a home cooked Sunday lunch as we can,” explains Sean.

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eneral manager Sean Johnson is born and bred in Peterborough and has a passion for his city. He’s determined to bring the community together in his restaurant and has created a welcoming venue for the family to get together.

The Toby Carvery opened in Peterborough two years ago providing the best of traditional British cuisine and has a local team of staff who’ve got to know their regulars by their first names.

There’s a dedicated team of six chefs who’ve been at the Peterborough restaurant since the start. All the food is freshly prepared that day with special care taken in slow cooking the meats for a minimum of 6 hours so they’re perfectly tender and juicy.

We all know a yorkie pud is crucial to the perfect roast and their Yorkshires are a minimum of 7cm high and lovely and crunchy.

The roast potatoes are roughed up and cooked in rape seed oil so that they’re lovely crispy on the outside and fluffy in the middle – just like you’d have at home but without all the slaving over the oven… or the washing up!

It’s open from 8am offering an all you can eat buffet style breakfast through until 11am for just £3.99 with a few Toby twists, including their own hash of potato cheese and onions and their own tomato gravy.

“We aim to provide a really friendly, attentive service and the food’s always fresh and hot,” adds Sean. “I think we can rival any fast food outlet but we’re offering a quality roast – you should be able to come in, be seated and dine within minutes.”

At lunchtime it really comes into its own when the fabulous four roast carvery of turkey, gammon, beef and pork is lined up on the serving deck ready for you to take your choice. A delicious looking selection of

The carvery is great value at £6.99 for a full roast and veg or you can pay an extra £1.50 and upgrade to a big plate option. There’s a wide range of starters and puddings available as well – go on you know you want to!

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A new pudding and light nights menu will be available from the end of this month so while the Toby Carvery might be famous for rustic hearty cuisine there will also be a choice on offer if you fancy something else including sandwiches, salads and lighter desserts.

Sean and his team are keen to invest in the local area and support charities with fundraisers so are happy to hear from local charities.

Twice a month Sean invites school classes or groups such as the Brownies to come along in the mornings for their Chefs School. The kids are given a talk on fresh food, how to get their five a day and healthy options followed by the chance to try the carvery for themselves.

It’s perfect for a family dining experience and with Mother’s Day on March 15 they’ll be offering free puddings for all mums after 6pm throughout the whole weekend.

Vivacity gym and arts members need only show their membership card and they’ll qualify for 20% off their food bill.

Sean and the team

"The page that says how many episodes of Bullseye ended with someone winning a speedboat?...One hundred and eiiiiiighty"

Mostly Funny

steve.gonzalez@espmag.co.uk

Photo: BBC/ Pete Dadds

WOLFIE IN THE HUNT FOR COMIC RELIEF DARTS TROPHY

W

ith Red Nose Day 2015 fast approaching, look out for Deeping Darts ace Martin 'Wolfie' Adams as he steps up to the oche for Let’s Play Darts for Comic Relief. The tournament is hosted by Gabby Logan on BBC2 and will be shown over seven consecutive nights in early March. It looks set to be a welcome addition to the various hybrid shows that Comic Relief do so well and due to a sell-out crowd will help raise money for Red Nose Day. The match format will see eight celebrities paired up with eight professional darts players in a winner-takes-it-allknockout tournament at the home of darts – The Lakeside in Surrey, the venue for Wolfie's three world title victories in 2007, 2010 and 2011.

Wolfie's been paired with comedian Lee Mack as they take on other pro-celebrity players. Included in the line-up are: Sean Lock & Ted Hankey, Tim Vine & Darryl Fitton, Richard Osman & Deta Hedman, Liza

Tarbuck & Bobby George, Bob Mortimer & Andy Fordham, Roisin Conaty & Richie George and Martin Offiah & Anastasia Dobromyslova. To add to the entertainment each celebrity will adopt their own darting persona, with nickname, costume, props and memorable walk on music. Combined with expert coaching from their professional partners there's bound to be plenty of darting drama on the legendary Lakeside stage as they compete for the title of ‘Let’s Play Darts for Comic Relief Champions 2015'.

Ahead of the show I spoke to Wolfie to get the lowdown on what people can expect.

"We recorded the show last year but without giving too much away I can tell you it was a lot of fun,” he told me. “There are some wonderful moments of play especially from the non-darts players. We're playing in pairs and I'm with Lee Mack who’s actually a very, very good player, but the one who

surprised me the most was Tim Vine, he calls himself the 'Punaway Train' and does a really funny walk on, but he actually throws a good dart.

“Then there's Sean Lock who kept telling us his owl joke, over and over again which had us all laughing but one of the funniest is Bob 'carpets' Mortimer who gets the crowd to chant ‘We hate laminate, say we hate laminate’. The crowd in fact were very good, very vocal but at the right time.

Everyone there loved it, so I'm sure people at home will be entertained too. It's for a fantastic cause so I hope people will watch it and donate to Comic Relief.”

I'm sure ESP readers will be tuning in to find out what happens, and in the meantime will join me in congratulating Martin on winning the Dutch Open in February by beating fellow Let's Play Darts for Comic Relief opponent Darryl Fitton.

Key Theatre Comedy Festival This is a real treat for comedy fans in the city and if the last two festivals at the Key are anything to go by, it's going to be a great week of live comedy bringing together some familiar names and rising stars of the stand-up circuit. The impressive line up includes Rich Hall, John Shuttleworth, Count Arthur Strong, Mitch Benn and many more but of coruse it’s selling out fast.

If I had to pick one show to see, then for me it would have to be Carl Donnelly who I saw at Edinburgh Festival in his early days and he’s now become a great headline act.

Don’t hang about for tickets! Book now on 01733 207239.

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MARCH

11-16

COMEDY

GIGS SOLSTICE COMEDY CLUB

FEB

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It’s always great to see more stand-up comedy on the city circuit and I’m pleased to see that the Solstice is staging a new monthly comedy night. The first this month features a strong line-up with Brian Damage and Krystaal, Joey Page (as seen on Nevermind the Buzzcocks), Kevin Shepherd and Leo Kearse. Tickets for this one are £5 from the venue. Show them your support!

FUNHOUSE COMEDY CLUB

MAR

4

The next stand up comedy show by the Funhouse team brings another great lineup to the North Street Bar.

Headliner is Howard Read, known for his show ‘Little Howard’ but seen here in his stand up guise, with support from comedian, actress and writer Laura Lexx, Steve Atkinson and compere Ben Murray The comedy ends at 11pm and is followed by live music and dancing till 2am.

Tickets are £7.50 in advance (unless otherwise stated) from www.funhousecomedy.co.uk

FUNHOUSE COMEDY CLUB – SPALDING

MAR

13

Over at the South Holland Centre the Funhouse Comedy Club team have lined up Daliso Chaponda, the in demand Liverpudlian comic Simon Bligh with support from James Cook and compere Ben Murray.

6th 7th

Tickets are £10 in advance on www.funhousecomedy.co.uk

SOLSTICE COMEDY CLUB The new comedy nights at Radius above the Solstice continue this month with another strong line-up.

MAR

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MC Ben van der Velde comperes the night which includes cockney raconteur Paul McMullan, Joshua Ross with self-deprecating anecdotal Jewish humour and headliner Steve Day – who describes himself as Britain’s only deaf comedian, if there are any others he hasn't heard! Tickets available from the venue.

THE CRESSET COMEDY CLUB

Live Music 13th 14th 20th 21st 27th 28th

Radius 45 Lizzy on the Loose Easyersaid NVR Third Stone from the Sun Demoniser Thunderhead Drum Bluey

REAL ALES, CASK MARQUE APPROVED, CAMRA GOLD AWARD • Proper food at proper prices served daily, Mon-Fri 11.30am-2pm and 6pm-9pm.

• Sunday roast with special Sunday gravy 12.00-4pm • Function room available for private parties • See Gig Guide for bands

MAR

27

The longest running comedy club in Peterborough returns with a cracking line-up, starting with headliner Dougie Dunlop.

Able support comes from Matt Rudge, Garrett Millerick and Ryan McDonnell.

Tickets are £11.50 in advance, book early on 01733 265705.

9 Oundle Road, Fletton, Peterborough 01733 703495 Find us on Facebook

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

The ABAX Stadium…

It’s more than just a football stadium.

Photos: www.theposh.com

I am fortunate to watch Posh play home and away, and nearly every ground I go to I take a look at what we as a Football Club can do differently. I look to take the best bits I see and sit and analyse to work out if it’s something we can do at the ABAX.

DATES FOR YOUR The football will always take care of itself, so what could we provide at the stadium other than football?

One thing that stuck out like a sore thumb was the fact that many were using their stadiums as live music venues, something we haven’t done here regularly. So away I went, I did my research and it doesn’t take a rocket scientist to work out that since the closure of the Broadway theatre we have lost a big part of our live events scene and at this stage it just isn’t possible for us to bring in the likes of Paul McCartney or Jon Bon Jovi, but my research surfaced that good cover bands will bring in the crowds.

So I went about bringing live entertainment to the ABAX, my main focus is that whoever I book to play here it’s massively important that they’re regarded

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as being one of, if not THE best in their field and to date I haven’t been disappointed.

Tickets for The Fab Beatles and ABBA Revival went down a treat. We then brought in some of the best DJ’s locally for a Northern Soul night which was also a real hit.

When we put on a music concert we ensure that we look after our own, so Season Ticket holders receive £5 off their ticket price to each event. I must stress that it is so important that people in the city back these events in order for them to continue to give entertainment options; without the support these events just wouldn’t be possible.

Next up we have Viva La Coldplay who are regarded as the best Coldplay tribute in the country, they will be at the

ABAX on March 14 with tickets priced at £20 seated and £15 standing (ST Holders £15 and £10).

We then have Oas-is rocking it out, these boys are known for sounding as close to the real thing as you can get. This will be taking place on May 23 with tickets priced at £20 seated and £15 standing (ST Holders £15 and £10).

Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased from the ABAX box office in person or on the phone or online from www.theposhtickets.com Thank you in advance for supporting our live entertainment events and we hope you enjoy the show!

DIARY: >>

Tues March 3 Posh v Sheffield Utd – 7.30pm

>>

Sat March 7 Posh v Leyton Orient – 3pm

>>

Sat March 14 Posh v Doncaster – 3pm

>>

Tue March 17 Posh v Preston North End – 7.45pm

>>

Sat March 21 Posh v Chesterfield FC – 3pm

>>

Sat March 28 Posh v Coventry – 3pm

All tickets for matches and events at London Road can be purchased from www.theposhtickets.com or from the London Road box office, in person or by phone 01733 865674.

NIGHTlife Your guide to the night time scene

SOLSTICE 18TH BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS The Solstice team are looking forward to celebrating their 18th birthday in style and want ESP readers to join them at their dance anthems night, Saturday March 21, with special guests Alex P (Space Terrace Sessions) and the legendary house DJ Seb Fontaine (Cream and Ministry of Sound) for a night of classic floor-fillers! Entry’s free.

MIXOLOGY EASTER ALL NIGHTER! To celebrate Mixology's third birthday, music fans are being treated to a house music all nighter with 12 hours of the finest tunes mixed by the finest DJs. The special event’s spread across two rooms at Edwards and the Red Room and will be featuring 16 DJs on Good Friday, Friday April 3.

The impressive line up includes Belfast duo Bicep who’ll be headlining Red Room with support from the Mixology Residents.

Headlining Purple Room is the exciting French DJ and producer Morgan with her very own concoctions of acid-infected techno with post-punk, disco, and new wave

leanings. They also welcome back Tronik Youth who’s been releasing quality productions for almost a decade. Also on the Purple Room bill is Mixology's Jenny Twenty; the excellent Contra Disco promotion featuring residents Jonah Considine and Ed Lee and regular Mixology guest selector Dan Gilchrist.

talented DJ is set to impress crowds in Stamford.

SHINDIG NIGHT @ NORTH STREET BAR

GREEN BACKYARD FUNDRAISER @ THE BREWERY TAP

North Street Bar is launching a new ‘Shindig’ dance night, presented by their long standing collaborators Zed and Jim from the Eclectic Ballroom, who’ll be delivering a mashed up mix of soul, funk and indie.

Saturday March 7 – Eclectic Ballroom (DJ Set) – 10pm Thursday March 19 – Eclectic Ballroom presents, Shindig – 8pm Saturday March 21 – Otis & Jules (DJ Set) – 10pm

RHYTHM DISTRICT PRESENTS ENSALL Rhythm District presents DJ and producer Ensall at the Pear Tree in Stamford on Saturday March 28.

With a string of successful releases, combining bass, deep house and garage sounds, this young and

Playing alongside Rhythm District residents, DJ Adams, Lee Haslam (Vermillion Records) and Chris Young (Solgarden). Catch Ensall and the Rhythm District boys 10pm – 3am.

Entry is free.

Fancy an eclectic night of music and dancing and all in the aid of a good cause? Head to The Brewery Tap on Friday March 6, for a night of music, merriment and dancing and all to raise funds for our very special urban green space, The Green Backyard.

The Green Backyard is a community growing project which was established in 2009. It’s run entirely by volunteers on a former allotment site on Oundle Road. A variety of events are held throughout the year from live music, arts and jams to craft fairs and performing arts and it’s a real hub of much needed green space in our fast-growing city.

The fundraising night, Beat Roots, will take place on the first Friday of every month. The next one is Friday March 6, entry fee is £5, 8pm – late.

MAJESTIC from KISS FM For the 1st time in Peterborough Menage a Trois welcomes MAJESTIC from KISS FM to Edwards, Flares and Red Room on Friday March 6. You may have heard his track ‘In The VIP’ which was written and produced alongside the Wideboys or his latest track ‘Creeping in the Dark’ which recently made it onto BBC Radio 1’s In New Music We Trust playlist, or you might listen to MAJESTIC on KISS FM every Saturday night from 6pm!

PETERBOROUGH DJ LEGENDS On Friday March 13 Vanity presents No Diggity in the Red Room with 3 special guest DJs supporting the Vanity residents – a collection of Peterborough legends who’ve entertained you over the past 15 years, having each held down residencies in the likes of the Park nightclub, Faith, Envy, Toho and Baccara. Join the Vanity residents Nick T and AJ as they are joined by Rob T, Supa T and T-Rex for a night of the finest urban music old and new!

INTRODUCING… Technoir Technoir events are held regularly in Stamford, we caught up with DJ and promoter Lloyd Thompson who stages the nights with Andy Mansfield… and a cool educated crowd who know their music.”

What's the vibe?

What's your background in the scene?

“Andy Mansfield and myself used to DJ at many of the city’s bars and clubs in the late 90s and early 2000s.

Venues such as West Side, Met Lounge (Winners), Cafe En Seine were popular venues in those days for house and underground music. We subsequently went on to play for many promotions locally and over seas.”

What can we expect at a Technoir night?

“The best cutting edge underground house music

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“The vibe at our nights so far has been special. We’re not a big production promotion with superstar guest DJs, we focus on small venues that create a intimate atmosphere and people seem to like it. We have a cool trendy young crowd, many of whom travel regularly to big cities such as Leeds and Sheffield for nights out. People come to our nights simply for the music, nothing else.”

Why did you launch it?

“We started the night initially as an opportunity to DJ out.

We invited a couple of young talented local DJs from Spalding, Sam Wakeham & Jack Bettinson to join the team. Between us we have a good balance of youth and experience, which is a great formula to have. We believe we offer a slightly different sound of house music to

what’s currently being played in our area, more dubby, cutting edge and underground.”

What have been the highlights so far?

“Probably the first time we filled a venue and had queues outside with just resident DJs playing! We rarely book guest DJs and when we do are very selective to what music they play.”

Do you produce any music yourselves?

“No, we haven’t the time! We like to do plenty of mixes though to give people a flavour of what is played at our nights, find them on www.soundcloud.com/technoir-east-uk” What do you think to the current scene?

“The house scene is extremely healthy right now.

The music’s better than ever due to the fact it's easier to make and producers are thinking outside the box to be

recognised. Years ago there were so many limitations, technology’s moved on and this is reflected in the music being produced. The social media has helped. Speaking as someone who came from pre social media days, promoting events, accessing music, keeping up to date with your favourite artist – it’s all so much easier. There are some amazing events around the world these days in some incredible locations whether it be in a desert, on a beach or the grounds of a castle.”

How would you advise anyone to set up a night?

“Find a venue that’s prepared to work with you and allow you to play the music you believe will work. We’ve been very fortunate with the Pear Tree, they have been great with us. Don’t go too big too soon – work within your limitations and enjoy yourself!”

Who’s music do you play?

“At our nights you’ll hear

tracks from the likes of Loquace, Lewis Boardman, tINI, Fernando Constantini, Okian, Sante Sansone, Brett Johnson. These are guys currently making some superb music, however we always give a respectful nod to the originators of the scene with artists like Phil Weeks, Terrence Parker, Sneak.”

What do you have planned for this year we should look out for?

“We have various dates in Stamford at the Pear Tree and also some nights planned at the Voodoo Lounge, a quirky underground basement club.

On May 2 we have our 1st Birthday and are holding a day event in the courtyard of the Lord Burghley, again in Stamford, followed by an after party. Day events seem to be very popular and we’re planning to host a few throughout the summer. Find out about all our events on www.facebook/TechNoirEast”

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keith.dalton@espmag.co.uk

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

PETE THOMSON’S MEMORIAL HOOTENANNY It’s nearly time for one of the biggest gatherings of local musicians.

for live music in the city and The Motivators (or the 'Guvnors', as the late, great Cherry Tree landlord Pete Carter used to call them) had Sunday night at the 'Tree'. We would play Fridays or Saturdays. Happy days. I loved that the Motivators did the soul and dance stuff, whereas we did the rock stuff.

TORI LAMOUR ROCKS OUT

“For those of you who haven't seen the full-fat Motivators full-bore, you're in for a treat and a dance (bare-footed). When Colin announced plans for Pete's Hootenanny, Jon, Neil and I wanted to get together to play some stuff for our friend, and for the charity. Really got to get rehearsing!”

The Met Lounge in Bridge Street plays host to local rock singer Tori Lamour on Friday March 27.

From growing up in Peterborough and establishing what direction she wants to go in, with influences like Metalicca, The Pretty Reckless and Marilyn Manson (pictured with Tori) the band was formed consisting of Robin Michard and Sam Hunt on guitars, bassist Craig Shearrat and Seb Gee on drums. They’re causing quite a stir with live audiences around the country and, having signed a recording contract and released their first album, PurgaTORI. They plan a new album this year and will soon announce more UK tour dates, but there are also possibilities to perform gigs in the USA where rock scales new heights. I think Tori may well go down very well there, so why not grab the chance to see her in her home town on March 27?

Support on the night at the Met Lounge comes from Damaged, Darkscreen and Hail the Horror and tickets are available from The Met Lounge box office on 01733 566100.

NORTH STREET’S LIVE MUSIC SHOWCASE Great news for lovers of the live music nights at the North Street Bar. They’re now starting music every Thursday night, as well as Fridays and Saturdays, starting from 8pm. They’re launching a new Live Music Showcase once a month, where they intend to present up and coming local bands with a strong emphasis on original material.

Other Thursdays will include their popular Red Lionz Promotions Rock nights and the Open Mic nights hosted by Jimmy from the High Rollers.

Please refer to the listings or contact North Street Bar on 01733 343785 if you would like to appear at their Live Music Showcase series.

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Pete Thomson’s Memorial Hootenanny will see local bands and musicians, past and present, all friends of Pete, appearing at the Cresset on March 7 and 8 in memory of Pete Thomson, who was so popular on the local music scene.

It’s the brainchild of Colin (Citizen) Smith a very close mate of Pete, who wanted to remember him in a special way and there’s no better way than by doing what they both love – live music.

So Colin set about contacting local musicians and the response was so great that the event grew into a two day gig, which with an all-day bar and a stunning list of artists promises to be a weekend to remember. I have included above, the full running order for you to pick your appearances (a weekend ticket will allow you to go in and out as you wish). I can reveal that the act opening the Saturday bill at 2pm is now Grounded.

As revealed in last month’s ESP, 0898 and The Motivators are both reforming for this one-off event. These are two big names from the past in this area, so what made them decide on this gig?

Graham Drury of 0898 told me – “Pete worked behind the bar at the Norfolk pub on Lincoln Road when our rock band 0898 regularly played there in the early nineties. Always complimentary, Pete liked the band and loved his music. Pete won a singing competition at the pub, I remember. This was a healthy time

Meanwhile Chris Allen, of The Motivators commented – “The Motivators were formed nearly 30 years ago now by Steph Eldred and Pip Seaton. Originally a blues band, I joined 25 years ago on keyboards, Lee Dash on drums and Colin Smith on guitar and vocals. This formed the start of a really successful time for the band who played thousands of gigs together all over the place including the annual Harley Davidson party, many showings at The BMF rally (and of course their virtual residency at the Cherry Tree).

“The addition of the new people changed the course of the band slightly and they diversified into a lot more soul and sometimes even a bit of rock. Blues and boogie however, remained at the forefront of The Motivators sound. The track Barefootin` sums up all the band was about.”

So why after all this time did they decide to reform?

“We were a fun band and an event like Pete’s Hootenanny for such a special fun guy gives us the opportunity to do it all again for such a good cause. It’s one we simply could not resist, so sit back and light the blue touchpaper, The Motivators are back for one night only!”

So a phenomenal line up who hope to raise important funds for Sue Ryder Thorpe Hall as all profits will go to that very important cause. All they need is YOU to join them at the Cresset and enjoy a weekend in memory of Pete.

The Hootenanny runs from 2pm – 12pm on Saturday March 7 and 2pm – 11pm on Sunday March 8.

Contact The Cresset for tickets on 01733 265705.

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SCHOOL OF ROCK FESTIVAL The Iron Horse Ranch House in Market Deeping has proved a huge success since opening, not just for food but music as well. And now comes news of the 2nd Skool of Rock & Roll Festival Friday March 27 – Sunday March 29.

Established in conjunction with Extreme Clowning they’re bringing us a three day Rock, Real Ale and Cider Festival aimed at engaging the community in live music as well as raising funds for charity along the way. This year’s event will be raising funds for Macmillan Cancer Support and Feel the Force Day 2015. Following the popularity of last year’s event, there’s a top line up once again with more than 20 live musical acts from across the local

area. Headlining the Skool of Rock and Roll Festival this year on the Friday are Burning Codes along with Emily Morgan and Francie Rehill. Saturday features Iron Fist with Sons of Kal-el and Third Stone from the Sun and it finishes Sunday with The Rocket Dogs, Lava Lamp Lighters, Chris King Robinson Band and Austen Gold.

One extra special attraction will return this year, that’s the spectacle of The Ride in Bike Show featuring motorcycle clubs from around the area bringing that extra wow factor. It’s free entry allowing more people to get involved so make sure to put the dates in your diary – the stage is set for the community to rock!

Photos: Amber Ryan

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WHITE CLOUDS AND GUNFIRE RETURN HOME Peterborough’s premier pop punk outfit will be returning to Stamford’s Voodoo Lounge on Friday April 10. The band will be playing the venue as a homecoming show, rounding off their next UK tour, which they head out on Saturday April 4.

White Clouds and Gunfire were also played by Huw Stephens on BBC Radio 1 last month and will be releasing their new single Chaos in the coming weeks. ESP had a quick chat with lead singer Evey to talk about their national radio appearance and the upcoming tour…

You guys have a reputation of always being out on tour, what is it about playing live that you love so much?

“We feel like it’s the best advert for our band. We really engage with the people who come to our shows and it really is the best part of being a band!”

You were recently played by BBC Radio 1’s Huw Stephens, how did that come about and what was it like hearing yourselves on national radio?

THE ROCKITS ARE LANDING IN SPALDING! One of the resident bands from the world famous Cavern Club, Liverpool, will be playing at a charity event at the Castle Sports Complex Spalding this month.

The organisers had the idea of bringing to Spalding one of the finest 50’s & 60’s tribute bands from Liverpool. The gig will introduce to Spalding The Rockits, and at the same time raise vital funds for a local dog rescue, The Central German Rescue.

The Rockits, Chris Grindrod (bass), Chris Hunt (lead guitar), Justin Crowe (keyboard) and Mike Beck (drums) told ESP – “We are all looking forward to coming to Spalding to give the town a

touch of Liverpool Magic. With a set list that includes tracks from the Beatles, The Rolling Stones, The Who, Elvis, Spencer Davis and The Kinks, hopefully Spalding will be entertained.”

It’s hoped to make this an annual affair, so if you like your music from the 60s, you need to support this gig to encourage the organisers to put on future dates.

The Rockits are at the Castle Sports Complex, Spalding on Saturday March 7 and tickets can be obtained from the South Holland Centre box office, 01775 764777.

“It was crazy. Huw is a big supporter of BBC Introducing and gives local stations the chance to select a band and give them some airplay. We’ve had great support from BBC Cambridgeshire and they selected us as their station’s pick!

“When our song was played, I had to turn the notifications on my phone off! Social media went absolutely crazy. It was a great feeling.”

You’ve got a new single coming out as well!

“We have! It’s called ‘Chaos’, it’s in our set at the moment and is one of my favourites. We’ll be putting out a music video to go along with it soon so watch this space.”

And a new album?

“We’re working on some new material at the moment, which is a lot darker than our usual stuff. I’m looking forward for people to hear the emo side of White Clouds and Gunfire!”

For more information on their new releases and touring, you can visit the band’s Facebook page at facebook.com/wcagf.

Alex Jones

www.espmag.co.uk

49

MUSIC THURSDAY 8pm

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BASKETCASES Iron Horse Ranch, Market Deeping CAPTAIN OBVIOUS The Dragon, Werrington EASYER SAID The Ploughman, Werrington ELECTRIC WARRIORS The Crown, Lincoln Road HAYZ The Cock Inn, Werrington JAKE DANIELS ACOUSTIC North Street Bar, North Street LADIES + THE TELEPATHS + ALPINA Mama Liz's, Stamford RADIUS 45 The Cherry Tree, Oundle Road THE LIMIT The Swiss Cottage, Woodston THE ONE EYED CATS The Solstice, Northminster THE TUNNEL The Fayre Spot, Bretton

LET THERE B/DC Groovy Club, Stamford MOLLY'S CHAMBER The Swiss Cottage, Woodston MOTOR CITY VIPERS Sir Harry Smith College, Whittlesey RETROLUX The Swiss Cottage, Woodston ROB & DAVE (CHILDREN OF THU FEB 26 THE REVOLUTION) OPEN MIC NIGHT North Street Bar, WITH DAVE North Street The Cherry Tree, THE 707 Oundle Road The Ploughman, OPEN MIC Werrington WITH CHESNIE THE & FRANCIE COLLABORATORS The Royal Oak, St. Ives The Waterton Arms, Market Deeping FRI FEB 27 THE DIZZY HOOKER MISS LIZZYS The Crown, Charters, Town Bridge Lincoln Road THE ELEMENTS LEE ENSTONE The Cock Inn, North Street Bar, Werrington North Street THE EXPLETIVES LEON The Crown, The Dragon, Lincoln Road Werrington THE LIMIT MAN ALIVE Old Coach House, The Cock Inn, Market Deeping Werrington THE OVERDUBS OPEN ACOUSTIC Iron Horse Ranch, WITH DAVE & PHIL Market Deeping The Boat Inn, THE RELICS Whittlesey The Burghley Club, RETROLUX Burghley Square The Swiss Cottage, Woodston TUE MAR 3 ROCK OUT ACOUSTIC SESSION The Little London, WITH RICHARD March Millstone Inn, Barnack SUBWAY 77 STACEY & DAVE'S The Golden Fleece, OPEN MIC Stamford The Dragon, SUPREME QUEEN Werrington The Key Theatre, THU MAR 5 The Embankment ACOUSTIC SESSION THE MISTREATED WITH AIN'T The Seven Wives, MISBEHAVIN St. Ives Mama Liz's, Stamford THIRD STONE LIVE MUSIC FORM THE SUN The Heron, Stanground SHOWCASE North Street Bar, SAT FEB 28 North Street ALADDINSANE OPEN MIC Stamford Corn WITH CHESNIE Exchange, Stamford & FRANCIE Iron Horse Ranch, ANOTHER GIRL Market Deeping ANOTHER PLANET The Blue Boar, Eye PETERBOROUGH BIG BAND CIRCA 73 Ebeneezers, Woodston The Quality Inn, Thorpe Meadows CODE RED The Cherry Tree, Oundle Road

50

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THE ROCKITS Castle Sports Complex, Spalding THUNDERHEAD The Railway Inn, Whittlesey

Available for private midweek hire TREBLE DAMAGE The Seven Wives, St. Ives

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BE BOP A LULAS Ebeneezers, Woodston SUN MAR 8 FRANKLY MY DEAR The Burghley Club, PENNYLESS Mama Liz's, Stamford Burghley Square GROUNDED PETE'S The Dragon, HOOTENANNY Werrington The Cresset, Bretton HOOKER MON MAR 9 The Blue Boar, Eye ACOUSTIC JUNK PUPPETS BLUEGRASS The Ostrich, The Ship Inn, Oundle North Street NVR + THE WED MAR 11 ACOUSTIC SESSION REPLICAS WITH GARY INGREY The Cherry Tree, The Railway, Ramsey Oundle Road PENNYLESS THU MAR 12 The Ship Inn, Surfleet OPEN MIC NIGHT ROCKET '57 WITH JAMES The Cock Inn, EDMONDS Werrington The Crown, ROCKET DOGS Lincoln Road The Swiss Cottage, OPEN MIC Woodston WITH CHESNIE THE 707 & FRANCIE The Railway, The Royal Oak, St. Ives Whittlesey RED LIONZ BANDS THE ELEMENTS NIGHT The Angel Inn, Yarwell North Street Bar, THE LAZOONS North Street Charters, Town Bridge FRI MAR 13 THE MALINGERERS SAT MAR 7 Iron Horse Ranch, ANOTHER GIRL Market Deeping CHILDREN OF ANOTHER PLANET THE REVOLUTION The Dragon, THE MOJO SLIDE Ebeneezers, Woodston Werrington North Street Bar, North Street CIRCA 73 BON & JUSTIN The Cock Inn, ACOUSTIC THE RELICS Werrington North Street Bar, Quinns Bar, Whittlesey North Street CROSSING SUN MAR 15 THE TRACKS CJ HATT Iron Horse Ranch, The Heron, Stanground AIN'T MISBEHAVIN The Crown, Market Deeping EASYER SAID Lincoln Road FRONT COVER The Cherry Tree, PENNYLESS The Blue Boar, Eye Oundle Road Cellar Bar, Stamford GO WITH THE FLOW HOOKER Arts Centre The Burghley Club, The Cherry Tree, Burghley Square Oundle Road TUE MAR 17 LET THERE B/DC OR WOT FRUMENTY The Crown, The Angel, Ramsey The Crown, Lincoln Road PARK LANE Lincoln Road LIZZY ON The Cock Inn, OPEN MIC NIGHT THE LOOSE Werrington WITH DAVE B & The Cherry Tree, PORKY PIG PHIL Q Oundle Road The Swiss Cottage, The Boat Inn, PENNYLESS Woodston Whittlesey Palmerston Arms, SPLIT WHISKERS THE HIGH ROLLERS Oundle Road Iron Horse Ranch, The Solstice, PETE'S Market Deeping Northminster HOOTENANNY THE ONE THE SHADES The Cresset, Bretton EYED CATS OF GREEN THE OVERDUBS The Crown, The Golden Pheasant, The Dragon, Lincoln Road Etton Werrington

THE SHADES OF GREEN (DAYTIME) The Swiss Cottage, Woodston

THU MAR 19 OPEN MIC WITH CHESNIE & FRANCIE Iron Horse Ranch, Market Deeping

- Usual free entry - Red Lionz Promotions - Live Music Showcase (new bands new music) - Eclectic Ballroom presents Shindig - Open Mic night - Refer to listings for details

THE BRAYS Old Coach House, Market Deeping THE ONE EYED CATS George & Dragon, Eaton Socon THE RELICS The Black Bull, Whittlesey THE REPLICAS The Ivy Leaf Club, Whittlesey THE SPIRIT The Stage, Market Deeping THE STERADENTS The Blue Boar, Eye

TORI LAMOUR + DAMAGED + DARKSCREEN + HAIL THE HORROR The Met Lounge, Bridge Street

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DAVE MCPHERSON + BEN CALLANAN The Met Lounge, Bridge Street FRI MAR 20 DRUM BLUEY 101 PROOF The Cherry Tree, The Cock Inn, Oundle Road Werrington GO WITH THE FLOW CODE RED Sawtry Club, Sawtry The Crown, IRON FIST Lincoln Road Iron Horse Ranch, HARKBACK Market Deeping WED MAR 25 The Dragon, JIMMY (HIGH ACOUSTIC SESSION Werrington WITH GARY INGREY ROLLERS) HAYZ The Railway, Ramsey North Street Bar, The Fayre Spot, Bretton North Street LESLEY CURTIS THU MAR 26 LET THERE B/DC North Street Bar, OPEN MIC The Cock Inn, North Street North Street Bar, Werrington MATT HOWARD North Street LIZZY ON Charters, Town Bridge OPEN MIC THE LOOSE ROCKET DOGS WITH CHESNIE The Crown, The Ploughman, & FRANCIE Lincoln Road Werrington The Royal Oak, St. Ives MOTOR CITY THE CHUCK NORRIS OPEN MIC VIPERS EXPEREINCE WITH DAVE B The Brewery Tap, The Solstice, The Cherry Tree, Westgate Northminster Oundle Road RISKY TRICK THIRD STONE The Green Man, FRI MAR 27 FROM THE SUN Stamford BURNING CODES The Cherry Tree, ROCKET DOGS Iron Horse Ranch, Oundle Road Quinns Bar, Whittlesey Market Deeping WHISKEY DICK + THE 707 EASYER SAID RATTLESHACK The Heron, Stanground The Cock Inn, Iron Horse Ranch, THE ELEMENTS Werrington Market Deeping Ebeneezers, Woodston FLEETWOOD BAC THE ONE SAT MAR 21 Sir Harry Smith EYED CATS College, Whittlesey 9 LIVES The Ploughman, REUNION GIG FRANCIE REIHILL Werrington The Heron, Stanground North Street Bar, TREBLE DAMAGE North Street CODE RED Pig n Falcon, St Neots The Dragon, LIVE BAND Werrington The Fayre Spot, Bretton SUN MAR 29 DEMONISER OPEN ACOUSTIC ROCKET DOGS The Cherry Tree, WITH DAVE & PHIL Iron Horse Ranch, Oundle Road The Boat Inn, Market Deeping Whittlesey JUNK PUPPETS Thorney Club, Thorney ROCKET '57 MON MAR 30 The Dragon, LET THERE B/DC THE SHADES Werrington Iron Horse Ranch, OF GREEN Market Deeping The Golden Pheasant, SUBWAY 77 Etton The Crown, NEW GENERATION Lincoln Road CRASH AND BURN The Crown, THE 707 Lincoln Road O'Neill's, Broadway RAMSHACKLE THE RELICS SERENADE The Crown, The Cock Inn, Lincoln Road Werrington THUNDERHEAD THE 707 The Cherry Tree, The Burghley Club, Oundle Road Burghley Square

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