ESP May 2009

MAY 2009 Issue 117

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tt o l e Pixi Introducing

We’re

leisure & lifestYle for

Years-old

Peterborough, stamford, oundle, WhittleseY, sPalding, bourne ... and more

... and getting stronger every month!

Spring has sprung at Rivergate this May, where your £££££££’s will blossom

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contents

Celebs

P60 sport

P42 feature

P16 fashion

P36

face of esP

P32

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feature

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EDITORIAL

STUDIO

COLUMNISTS

CONTRIBUTORS

Editor Sharon McAllister

Art Director Tony Mayer

Pep Cipriano

karen Devine

tony.mayer@espmag.co.uk

Andy Slater

Joanne Quinney

ADVERTISING

Senior Designer Alex Fahey

Steve Gonzalez

sharon.mcallister@espmag.co.uk

Head of Sales & Marketing Sean McAllister

Sean McAllister

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Shirley Frost

ESPmag.co.uk

susan.saunders@espmag.co.uk

Matt Zilch

For all the latest news, views, reviews and gossip, check out ESP Magazine’s Local Leisure website www.espmag.co.uk

Susan Saunders

shirley.frost@espmag.co.uk

Liv Slater

sharon.mcallister@espmag.co.uk

Andy Whittaker

PHOTOGRAPHY

REPORTER

Directors Sharon McAllister

steve.gonzalez@espmag.co.uk

andy.whittaker@espmag.co.uk

Shirley Frost

shirley.frost@espmag.co.uk

joanne.quinney@espmag.co.uk

Sarah Tempest

Sales Executives Andy Slater

andy.slater@espmag.co.uk

andy.slater@espmag.co.uk

karen.devine@espmag.co.uk

alex.fahey@espmag.co.uk

Andy Vernum Emma Bothamley Mike Harris

sean.mcallister@espmag.co.uk

pep.cipriano@espmag.co.uk

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CLAIRE’S HAIR Michael John

matt.zilch@espmag.co.uk

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CLAIRE’S MAkE-UP Julia kornilova (Lancôme)

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

Gossip gossip@espmag.co.uk

It seems that every month Oakham Ales win another award for one of their beers and this time they’ve managed a grand total of seven, with Oakham Ales Attlila - categorised as a barley wine due to its strength, sweetness and high hop rate – winning in the CAMRA Winter Ales Festival held in Manchester. The brewery collected another six awards in total at the SIBA East Region Competition, with Bishops Farewell winning overall, Inferno the overall runner-up and Oblivion and Hawse Buckler gaining silver and bronze awards respectively.

Try all of these beers at the Brewery Tap, Westgate or Charters, near Town Bridge.

They’ve also just launched the Oakacademy of Excellence which encourages pubs to join and prove they know how to serve up a decent pint of Oakham Ales. If you’re a landlord you’ll receive a cracking certificate to proudly display to prove to your punters they’re guaranteed a great pint at your establishment.

on gut-busting value! They serve traditional pub favourites, such as bangers and mash and burgers, as well as such enormous steaks that you’d assume it came off the side of a dinosaur rather than a cow, starting from £6.99 for a 10oz rump steak.

During the week, you can get two main meals for just £8 and a burger and a pint for £4.99; on Sundays, a full roast is just £5.49 or on Wednesdays, you can have a curry and a pint for £4.99. Call 01733 263801 for more details.

BIKINIS AND PIMMS AT TWO SEASONS Surf, snow and street-wear store Two Seasons is expanding their ladies department in May, with over 20 new lines by the like of Billabong, O’Neill, Animal, Roxy and Banana Moon being added. The second floor of the shop in Westgate, Peterborough will be turned into a girlie paradise for the summer, with a Bikini and Pimms night on May 14 from 6.30pm, which will give you a chance to see the latest lines in a fashion show and get 10% off, as well as complimentary Pimms!

For more information, call into the shop or visit www.twoseasons.co.uk.

Photo: Peterborough United FC

OAKHAM ALES WIN MORE

INTERNATIONAL PARTY PEOPLE Latin American vibes cross with Middle-Eastern influences on May 3 at Bar Cuba in Latini’s Restaurant, for a massive cocktail party featuring Arabian Belly Dancer, Andrea and DJ Raffro spinning the finest in Latino beats, Hip-Hop and funky house. If you’re far too skint to get away this Bank Holiday, it’s the perfect night to take you far, far away from the UK, with the gorgeous (we know, we’ve tried them!) exotic cocktails costing you just £3! Entry is £5, including a free cocktail. For more information call 01733 891224.

THE HALCYON CURES HUNGER The Halcyon Hungry Horse in Netherton launches their new menu in May, with the emphasis definitely

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www.espmag.co.uk ( May )

BULL HOTEL WINS STAR STATUS

POSH GO KARTING It’s been a busy season so the Peterborough United squad took time out of their training schedule recently to complete a team-building exercise at the Peterborough Karting track in Bretton. A total of 10 first team players went down to the track for a couple of hours of fun and it was highly competitive stuff with Aaron Mclean the eventual champion.

Charlie Lee, Paul Coutts, Craig Morgan and George Boyd were among the other players to have a go on the circuit, which has proved extremely popular with the public. The players also took part in the annual Golf Day at Greetham Valley with Charlie Lee and his team coming out on top.

Congratulations to the team at the Bull Hotel, Westgate, which has just been awarded four-star status. One of the city’s best-known hotels, it’s ideal for business meetings and lunches, as well as being one of the best places in the city centre to simply sit and have a cuppa! Half of the rooms are now executive standard and there are large meeting rooms on site, which means it’s perfect for any event you fancy throwing. For more information, call 01733 561364 or visit www.peelhotels.co.uk.

GET FIT AT BREAKFAST Paul Stainton, from BBC Radio Cambridgeshire’s Breakfast Show has managed to talk himself into yet more trouble – during an interview with Mike Hare, organiser of this year’s Great Eastern Run and a man who once lost an incredible 15 stone of body weight, Paul agreed to take part in the half marathon! He told ESP - "I was shamed into it live on air! I thought if Mike can lose fifteen stone, surely the Peterborough Breakfast Show team can get fit and raise some money for charity too. It’s going to be tough and the more I look into what it entails, the more worried I get!” If you fancy a laugh as the decidedly unfit breakfast team face up to the painful challenges of running 13 miles non-stop, they’ll be keeping you updated on the show, plus passing on hints and tips from experts. The show’s on air from 6am every morning on 95.7FM.

memory of her mother, and Dave, in memory of his son, all proceeds will be going to Sue Ryder Care at Thorpe Hall and Addenbrookes Neurological Unit, they’ve joined forces to ensure that the evening will be unforgettable!

Entry’s free, but there’ll be raffles to encourage you to donate!

BANDS WANTED FOR THE AUDIO FILES Kerry Devine from BBC Radio Cambridgeshire’s been in touch - not only is she a performer in her own right but she also works on 'The Audio Files', on 95.7FM every Thursday between 6pm and 7pm. The programme showcases all the best new music from upcoming local bands and solo musicians from around Cambridgeshire - and they’re looking for more to feature. Kerry told ESP – “We do live studio sessions; we've had interviews with artists such as Jason Mraz, Richard Hawley (Pulp) Feeder, Imogean Heap and local bands like the Winter Kings, Opaque, Caimbo and The Brackets perform.” So, if you're a musician or you know a good band that would like some airplay, email kerry.devine@ bbc.co.uk or if you want to drop a CD in; BBC Radio Cambridgeshire, 31-49 Priestgate, Peterborough PE1 1FG.

BRILLIANT BEERS AT THE BOAT

LOCAL ALE IS LOVELY!

Fancy getting out of the city for the last May Bank Holiday? Head to the Boat Inn, Whittlesey, where they’ll be having a Beer Festival over the weekend, and an all-day fundraising gig on May 24, with bands starting at 1pm and Outa-Stock taking to the stage at 9pm. It’s bound to attract a big crowd and The Boat Inn is widely known for its excellent Real Ales, so it’s worth going just to sample a few of the special pints!

Peterborough CAMRA has launched a brand-new initiative called LocAle, it aims to get us all drinking locally brewed beer. It reduces the environmental impact of transporting beer, it’ll keep profits in your local area instead of with multi-national companies and there’ll be more different beers to drink! Look out for Certificates of Accreditation on the wall of your favourite boozer and know that you’re doing your bit to keep pubs going.

DANISH INVADERS GET CHARITABLE Head to the Danish Invader, Stamford for a Charity Night on May 2 with local band OAK, who play covers of everyone from Oasis to the Rolling Stones. Organised by Amy, in

DON’T BURY YOUR HEAD IN THE SAND...

There’s been much gloom and conjecture surrounding the demise of Bogart’s but our news hack Andy Slater has had his ear to the ground

and unearthed the future of this well respected watering hole.

Bogart’s has gone forever, but only in name. The new revamped pub will open its doors some time in July and will revert back to the name it was given in 1837 - ‘The Ostrich’.

Graham Findings of new owners Baxter and King, a local building firm, is promising a traditional city centre pub. No theme, no chain, no corporate image, but real ales, simple lunchtime food with a good old city boozer atmosphere.

The beer yard’s going to be opened up and landscaped to give it a courtyard look instead of a concrete dog pen and the loos will be completely refurbished and extended.

So out with the old and in with the good old fashioned British free house pub run by independent people for real pub lovers, at last... something for the licensed trade to shout about!

No news yet on the restaurant and club side, Graham and the guys are pondering its future, who cares The Ostrich is back... the city centre has a pub!

SUNDAZE AT RADIUS Launched last month, the Radius Sundaze are giving Sunday nights in the city centre a fresh feel. It’s always been a time to chill and contemplate the week ahead on Sunday nights, but the guys at The Solstice believe in extending the weekend, not shortening it. Goodtime DJ’s Steve and Brett will be throwing old-school disco, classic electro and club anthems into the mix.

Early reports of the evening suggest numbers are up and the place has got a great vibe already – Monday’s a thousand miles away when you’re having a good time, especially when it’s free to get in. Check it out, what else are you gonna do – certainly beats the Antiques Roadshow!

BEGIN WITH LA BOHEME All budding singers are invited to join in with Peterborough’s Opera’s production of Puccini’s ‘La Boheme.’

They’re looking for people to boost the chorus line, but if you truly can’t sing then they’re also desperate for stage hands, set builders and painters! It’s a great chance to get some experience

on the stage – who knows where it could lead! Rehearsals are at Jack Hunt School, Netherton on Fridays from 7.30pm. For more information, call Liz Williams on 07913 184192 or John Walmsley on 07791 794316.

ANIMAL LET LOOSE IN SPRINGFIELDS Good news if you’re feeling the pinch on your clothes budget – boardwear brand Animal will be opening up at Springfields Outlet Shopping and Festival Gardens in Spalding this summer. They’re known for combining fashion with serious practicality - most of Animal’s products are tested by their Pro Team on the slopes and in the water, which means you get cool, funky designs for clothes that seem to last forever! They’re currently recruiting and getting the shop set up, so watch this space for opening dates.

CHANGE YOUR WORLD Most people’s journey to work involves congestion, pollution and a lot of stress – but it doesn’t have to be like that.

Transport charity Sustrans are organising Change Your World again on June 29 – July 4, the idea being that if we all swapped one car journey a week for one on a bike or public transport, then traffic would drop by 10%, reducing pollution and making our roads safer. Bethan, who made the swap last year, told ESP - “It was a gorgeous sunny day, I felt inspired and I hopped on my bike to get to the office. I couldn’t believe it – I even got to work two minutes early - how’s that for a clockwork commute?” For more information and free advice, visit www.changeyourworld.org.uk or www.sustrans.org.uk.

DRAGON BOAT TIME Have you got your name down for the Dragon Boat Race yet? There’s not long to go for a mess about on the river and some fun and games with your office mates as the event takes place on Sunday June 21. Sponsored by Crightons and supported by Lite FM, who’ll be providing the commentary on the day, there’s plenty of bankside fun too so everyone can make a day of it.

Proceeds go to SportsAid in Peterborough. Go on… take the challenge and enter on 01780 470718.

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Liv Slater has ESP’s guide to the hottest nights out.

ROCK AND A COLD PLACE

WASTELAND IN SPALDING

Coldplay have won themselves millions of fans over the past few years so it can be quite tricky to catch them live. Don’t worry if you’ve not had chance however, as tribute band ‘Coldplace’ are coming to Stamford Corn Exchange on May 9.

From Grimsby, Coldplace are one of the country’s most successful Coldplay tributes and are supported by Ashdowne, an eclectic, ambitious four-piece indie band from Leicester.

Tickets £15. Box office: 01780 766455/754829 or from Stamford Arts Centre.

Set in an East Midlands market town and inspired by the events that led to the shooting of Fred Barras by farmer Tony Martin, ‘Wasteland’, which comes to South Holland Arts Centre on May 13, is a touching and topical play. Focussing on the lives of three men on the banks of a canal, it's a moving account of desperation and the ways in which people try to escape. Tickets £8.50, limited free tickets available to Under 26's. Box office: 01775 764777.

BEHIND THE BARRICADE After being on tour for ten years, the singers with Behind The Barricade know a thing or two about musical theatre – see for yourself when they call at the Cresset in Bretton on May 14. Four talented performers will be taking you through the best-loved songs from the West End and Broadway, without you ever having to leave town. Tickets £18.50. Box office: 01733 265705.

ALL STAR COUNTRY

WHOLE LOTTA LED

For a full two and a half hours of classic country, don’t miss Ollie Austin and the All Star Band at Stamford Corn Exchange on May 16. One of Britain’s best loved country artists, Ollie Austin’s been on tour since the 60’s and doesn’t look like he’s going to stop - the show at Stamford will see him backed by a five-piece live band, so expect a hoe-down! Tickets £12. Box office: 01780 766455 / 754829.

After Letz Zep’s triumphant show in the city last year, they’re back, this time at the Key Theatre on May 9. Their tribute to Led Zeppelin is second to none – even Robert Plant himself said of the band – “I looked on stage – I saw me!” They’ve performed to huge audiences at festivals and theatres across Europe. With Led Zeppelin tickets a rarity, don’t miss your chance to see some very talented musicians perform some of the best rock and roll songs ever written. Tickets £16. Box office: 01733 207239.

DREAMS AND RUMOURS Rumours of Fleetwood Mac will be bringing the sounds of the world’s biggest super-group to the Cresset in Bretton on May 22. Famed for their ever changing line-up as much as their songs, Fleetwood Mac have had hits throughout the decades and Rumours of Fleetwood Mac will be bringing you a snapshot of their music. Tickets £17.50. Box office: 01733 265705.

STAX SUPERSTAR SINGS IN CITY Stax Soul Legend Eddie Floyd will be performing a very special gig at the Holiday Inn West at Thorpe Wood on May 22, supported by Sounds Force 5 and top local Soul DJ Steve Allen. Eddie Floyd is a true Soul man – his first hit with Stax was ‘Knock on Wood’ in 1967 and he’s been writing, recording and producing ever since, and even starred in The Blues Brothers. Also appearing are Sounds Force 5, a local band who supported the likes of Jimi Hendrix, Pink Floyd and Cream back in the day and have reformed to bring you the most authentic 60’s pop around.

Tickets £27.50, which includes seating and dinner, or dance only tickets are £20. Tel: 01775 768661.

MUSIC OF THE CITY A taste of the Big Apple comes to Stamford Arts Centre on May 22, when Keith James and Rick Foot will be performing 'Poet in New York,' a collection of songs on acoustic guitars inspired by Leonard Cohen, Federico Garcia Lorca and Bob Dylan, among others. Both Rick James and Keith Foot are well respected singer-songwriters and it's bound to be a beautifully insightful evening. Tickets £12. Box office: 01780 763203.

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COMIC CABARET IN THE STOREROOM If you like dance ‘The Storeroom’ is well worth a watch at South Holland Arts Centre on May 8. The lithe and athletically talented dancer Sian Williams from The Kosh stars in this story of illicit passion, infidelity, deception and revenge. It’s a piece of dark and comic cabaret pitched against a mesmerising soundtrack all seen through the eyes of a dancer as she tries to unlock the secret of her mysterious past. Tickets £7.50m (£6.50) Box office: 01775 764777.

entertainment@espmag.co.uk

LOCALENTERTAINMENT

STAMFORD NIGHT FEVER Time to get the flares out of mothballs for Jive Talkin’ at the Stamford Corn Exchange on June 13, a night of everything Bee Gees. Three West-End singers will be taking you through all the Gibb brothers’ hits, from funky disco classics such as ‘Stayin’ Alive’ and ‘Night Fever’ to lush 60’s pop like ‘Words’, as well as their earlier, acoustic hits. If you’re a fan of the Bee Gees or just enjoy pure, close vocals then get booking now! Tickets £14. Box office: 01780 766455.

MAD HATTER’S TEA PARTY If you’ve got little ones to entertain this half-term, then head over to the Key Theatre, where on May 28 – 30 Peterborough Regional College’s BTEC Performing Arts students will be performing Alice in Wonderland. It’s a brand new, musical adaptation of the classic kids’ tale and is bound to keep them quiet for a bit! Tickets £8.50.

Box office: 01733 207239.

IN LOVE WITH 10CC Don’t miss your chance to see 70’s pop-rock heroes 10cc at the Cresset, Bretton on May 7. Best known for ‘I’m Not in Love’ and ‘Rubber Bullets,’ 10cc were an influence on a whole generation of artists, from Queen to Andrew Lloyd Webber. With the band newly reformed and rediscovering what they loved about music, it should be a great night. Tickets £23.50. Box office: 01733 265705.

DON’T STOP THEM NOW Queen are all about the music – that’s why GaGa, who come to Stamford Corn Exchange on May 30, have promised to wear no wigs, no make-up and no false moustache. With the focus directly on Queen’s rock and roll anthems, you’re bound to have a ball! Tickets are £15. Box office: 01780 766455.

MIDNIGHT IN MOSCOW All jazz fans should head to Stamford Corn Exchange on May 14 when the Legendary Kenny Ball and His Jazz Men will be performing their 60’s hits and other jazz classics. Best known for ‘Midnight in Moscow,’ Kenny Ball’s songs are still regularly performed around the world and as this night was organised by the Rotary Club to raise money to fight Polio, there’s really no excuse to miss it! Tickets £15.

Box office: 01780 766455 / 754829.

PERFECT TEN - EVENTS

GIRLS TALK – GIRLS WALK! Let’s hear it for the girls as they get ready to step it out this month.

Our Face of ESP Claire Smith is strutting her stuff in the Midnight Walk on May 16 to help raise cash for Sue Ryder Care. The walk’s sponsored by Serpentine Green Shopping Centre and we’re supporting this fantastic night as one of our ‘Perfect Ten’, a series of ten events we’re backing or staging ourselves throughout the year to celebrate ten years of the magazine.

Former Face of ESP and Confessions columnist Susan Saunders, Health & Beauty contributor

Charlotte Jolly and Rachel Wormall will be among those keeping Claire company during the twelve mile walk… and hopefully a few of you girls too!

to man the route and cheer the ladies on. If you know of anyone who’d like to help marshal please ask them to get in touch.”

Claire told ESP she’s delighted to be taking part “I was actually in training for the London Marathon but unfortunately my knee let me down so I was absolutely delighted that I could take part in this event instead and raise money for the same charity. It’s going to be such an unforgettable experience.”

So be a part of a night to remember and get your name down. If you can’t join in, do your bit and sponsor someone who is! The route is all safely marshalled and you’ll receive a goody bag and T-shirt for taking part. Enter now and join Claire and the ESP team, register online for just £12 on www.suerydercare.org/midnightwalks or call 01733 330060 for more details.

Jackie Page from Thorpe Hall added – “Last year 1000 women took part and raised £110,000. This year we want 1500 women to raise £150,000!

“So the men don't feel left out, we need marshals

We’ll see you there for the warm up at Midnight at Serpentine Green in Hampton… and hopefully at the breakfast afterwards!

GREEN FESTIVAL FASHION SHOW In our second Perfect Ten event of the month our Face of ESP Claire Smith will be taking to the catwalk in Queensgate for a special fashion show supported by ESP as part of the city’s Green Festival celebrations.

Claire will be joined by ESP models plus students from local colleges to showcase re-fashioned clothes and jewellery, dresses made from rubbish, organic, Fairtrade, vintage and retro gear.

The fashion show takes place at 6.30pm on Thursday May 28 but the Green Festival organised by the Peterborough Environment City Trust launches on May 23 and runs until June 7 with the theme of fashion and food.

The launch day on Saturday May 23 will see the city centre host three activity packed hubs – grow it, cook it, eat it – with free activities from 10am - 4pm hosted by Keith and Claire from 106.8 Lite FM. You’ll be able to watch cooking demonstrations, get garden questions answered and taste local organic grub.

The Festival launch will also see Junk Band Big Beat, who regularly play at the Eden Project, perform at 10.30am, 12.30pm and 2.45pm, as well as running workshops throughout the day.

There’ll be loads of events throughout the week including a ‘Swish’ – a posh clothes swap - at the Museum in Priestgate on Tuesday May 26 at 6pm with image guru Sue Donnelly advising on what to wear and ESP’s Becca Evans modelling on the night. Booking is essential for this one so contact Janine Starling on 01733 567254 or email janine.starling@pect.net.

On Thursday May 28 during the day there’ll be displays in Queensgate near Bhs including a presentation by ESP’s healthy eating columnist, nutritionist Karen Devine. In the evening at 6.30pm it’s the fashion show featuring designs by students at AMVC, PRC and New College Stamford. The ESP Dance Crew will be keeping you entertained during the show.

To find out more call 01733 568408 visit www.pect.org.uk/greenfestival or www.espmag.co.uk or pick up a programme from Tourist Information.

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“THE CLASSIC AWAY FROM IT ALL VENUE JUST 15 MINUTES FROM THE CITY”

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BACCARA + POSH = CHARITY

PETERBOROUGH FESTIVAL COMING SOON! The Peterborough Festival kicks off on June 20 this year and the always-popular festival looks set to be even better with Peterborough City Council promising something for everyone.

ESP and the Dance Crew will once again be taking part in the colourful Mayor’s Festival Parade from Bridge Street to Central Park, followed by live music of all styles in the park across the weekend, finishing with a concert on June 21 by the City of Peterborough Symphony Orchestra, with more acts to be announced.

The following weekend, June 27 – 28, the action moves into the past with a celebration of our city’s heritage – you can meet Saxons and Romans on the Cathedral grounds or see a Viking longboat in Bridge Street, as well as visit the craft fair and farmer’s market on the Embankment. Throughout the week there’ll be other events taking place around the city, such as Mask Theatre performing in Central Park, a film festival and sports events. Councillor Matthew Lee told ESP - "The Peterborough Festival has a reputation for providing great entertainment, showcasing local talent and uniting communities and I’m greatly looking forward to it."

If you fancy getting involved, there’s still time, so email festival@peterborough.gov.uk or call 01733 207235. For more info, visit www.peterboroughfestival.com and we’ll have more news next month.

Celebrate the end of a great season for Posh in style at Baccara on May 2 for Diamond Life, a seriously sophisticated charity bash in aid of The Otter’s Retreat, a local respite centre for children with global developmental delay and other complex health issues. The Diamond Life night promises to deliver soulful, funky Latin house courtesy of DJ’s Sir Piers and Jay Heal with Tom on percussion and Benjamin Brown hosting the opening of the terrace.

Posh’s players will be there to party after one of their best ever seasons, so you know it’s going to be one massive night! Entry is £5, 10% of which will be donated to The Otter’s Retreat. www.clubbaccara.co.uk

BANK HOLIDAY BEVVIES If you fancy getting out of the city during the May Bank Holidays, don’t miss the Beer Festival at the Golden Pheasant, Etton from May 1 – 3. As well as 15 real ales for you to try (that isn’t a challenge!) there’ll be a BBQ in the gorgeous garden on Friday night and live music in the marquee on Saturday night and Sunday afternoon. You can also take the young ‘uns along on May 25, as they’ll be throwing a special family party, with a bouncy castle - for the kids, obviously! For more info, call 01733 252387. Liv Slater

CLAIRE IS BELLE OF THE MASQUERADE BALL

JOIN CHEGGERS FOR A FRIDAY NIGHT OUT It’s not always easy organising a work night out – catering for the tastes of both your boss and the office junior can be a bit of a challenge! That’s why Make-A-Wish and the Free Kicks foundation have teamed up to put on an Evening of Entertainment on June 5.

Both charities aim to make the dreams of ill children come true, from holidays to Disneyland to meeting their favourite footballer. There really will be something for everyone, with local comedian John Elson providing the jokes, Peterborough Poet Laureate Keely Mills, singer Emily Jordan and local heroes The Brays all booked and, to top it all, the compere will be none other than Keith Chegwin, who’s a patron of the MakeA-Wish Foundation. Tables of eight are available to buy at £100, or individual tickets at £15. Box Office: 07845 651343 or email steve.thorpe@ntlworld.com Liv Slater

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www.espmag.co.uk ( May )

Last month’s Masquerade Ball organized by Heart FM was a resounding success, with over £7,000 raised for Kidney Research UK and Heart FM’s Have a Heart charity, which helps disadvantaged local children. Face of ESP Claire Smith was at the ball, and told us – “I’d encourage anyone to come to the next - the masked ball was such a fabulous event including a delicious three course meal, auction and live entertainment to dance the night away. It was great to see so many people come to show their support. Michael John were kind enough to do my hair before which made me feel like a million dollars and suited my dress down to a tee!”

The auction was one of the highlights of the evening, with lots such as a guitar signed by The Kooks, The Magic Numbers, Kaiser Chiefs and The Feeling, signed Premiership football shirts and the chance to present alongside Kev Lawrence on the Heart Breakfast Show. As Peter Revell from Kidney Research UK told us - “It was an amazing night and everyone thoroughly enjoyed themselves!” - we can’t say anything better than that!

Liv Slater

HEAVEN IS A HALF-PIPE Skaters of the city listen up - if you fancy winning some great gear from the likes of Globe, DVS, Shiner and Biro, get yourself over to The Manor Leisure Centre in Whittlesey on Sunday June 7 for the Rampage Skate Competition. Orgainised by the area’s best skate shop, Rampage, the competition kicks off at 11am and is split into five age categories, so you should find a class to suit your skill! Even if you’re not that stable on a board it’s still worth going down for the day as there’ll be loads of stalls, a BBQ and live bands to check out, including Acer, as well as all the skaters!

If you want to enter or just get more info call the shop on 01733 351163, email rampage@btconnect.com or pop into the shop on Market Street, Whittlesey.

OUNDLE FESTIVAL The Oundle International Festival returns for its 25th Anniversary this year, with the Fireworks Concert taking place on July 11 and tickets are now on sale. First on stage will be The Manfreds - featuring original members of Manfred Mann and playing 60's pop - followed by The Bootleg Beatles, one of the best Beatles tribute acts in the country and to close, a spectacular fireworks display. Get booking now to avoid disappointment and for discounted tickets at £20 before May 9, £21 after. Box Office: 01832 275109, www.oundlefestival.org.uk or from Oundle Tourist Information Centre. Liv Slater

COUNTY BALL GETS VISION The County Ball returns for its 20th year on June 5 at the Holiday Inn West – and it looks set to be another spectacular night, all in aid of Unicef. The main entertainment on the night comes from Vision, one of the county’s best function bands, who play uncanny covers of songs from the 60’s through to today. Supporting them will be the Barrie John Disco and the Dave Johnson Duo, who specialize in relaxed Café Jazz. There’ll also be a roving magician, a caricaturist, a mini casino, a surf-board stimulator, laser clay shooting and human horse racing! Full evening tickets are £70, or late night reveller tickets are £30, which includes a champagne reception at 10.30pm. Call 01733 289931 to book.

Liv Slater

LOCALEVENTS FEATHERS AND BOAS FOR THE GOLDEN BALL

The Towngate Inn

After three successful years, the Golden Ball, organized on behalf of Sue Ryder Care, returns to the Holiday Inn at Thorpe Wood on June 6 for a night of sophisticated entertainment. With live music from well-known Peterborough band After Dark, a DJ and dancing as well as a delicious three-course meal, it’s bound to be another spectacular event in aid of a very worthy cause. This year’s theme is ‘Black Tie – Feathers and Boas’ and tickets are £35, which includes a welcome drink. Box office: 07906 794842 or 07812 374349.

Liv Slater

TOUR DE FLETTON Peterborough will be playing host to a massive event on June 4, when the Tour Series cycle race comes to the city. Organized by the people behind the UK legs of the Tour De France, the Tour Series will see international and Olympic athletes battle for points on the streets of our city, as well as others such as Milton Keynes and Chester. As the race falls right in the middle of the Green Festival, loads of other activities and events are being planned around the race and will turn the whole of the city centre into one big carnival of cycling! You can also catch the race on ITV4 and see if you can spot anyone you know in the crowd. For more info visit www.tourseries.co.uk Liv Slater

ALZHEIMER’S SOCIETY BALL The first Peterborough Alzheimer’s Society Ball is being held on May 9, when comedian Mitch Benn, who stars on BBC Radio 4 and BBC One’s The One Show, will be leading a night packed full of entertainment. Local band The Eltones will be supporting and you’ll be able to dance well into the night with a disco from Rick Santini, enjoy a five-course meal and take part in the raffles and auctions.

Funding and Finance Manager Naomi Hands told ESP – “Fundraising is important to us and we’re all really excited about this first ball for the branch – we’ve got a glamorous evening planned with great food, company and entertainment!”

The Peterborough branch of the Alzheimers Society alone supports over 400 local people and their families, so it’s time to party with a purpose! Tickets are £45 on 01733 893853 or 07549 021629.

Liv Slater

SERPENTINE GREEN MARDIS GRAS CHARITY BALL Like us here at ESP Magazine, Serpentine Green Shopping Centre is celebrating its tenth anniversary so what better way to celebrate than with a charity ball. Get your glad rags ready for a Mardis Gras themed night to remember with steel band and disco at the Holiday Inn West on May 1 and you could find yourself in next month’s Paparazzi spread! Call 01733 352736 for any remaining tickets. See you there!

Loughton BBQ RESTAURANT & BAR

events@espmag.co.uk

Experience the Turkish delights of the new look

Towngate Loughton BBQ Now under new management Our professional chefs from Turkey bring a brand new taste to the area with a fabulous range of authentic dishes and Turkish style BBQ.

Fantastic live entertainment every Thursday!

Dine in style and enjoy our varied line up of performers and entertainers for a night out with a difference.

• Restaurant open from noon until 10pm daily

RUGBY CLUB BEER FESTIVAL WITH ESP! It’s a widely known fact that here at ESP, we’re fond of a pint or five, so no surprises we decided to get involved with the Fourth Annual Beer Festival at Peterborough Rugby Club, Fengate on May 1 and 2. There’ll be more than 50 Real Ales, ciders, lagers and wines for you to sup and entertainment all weekend. See Citizen Smith on Friday and Second Drove on Saturday, after the East Midlands V Staffordshire match. If all of this gives you a taste for rugby as well as booze, May 3 will be full of fixtures to watch, or if you want to get involved, visit www.prufc.com Liv Slater

• Open to the public for breakfast everyday 7am - 12noon • Motel accommodation (refurbished rooms single £45, double and twin rooms £65) • Function room - caters for parties large or small, up to 150 people

3 The Towngate East, Market Deeping Telephone: 01778 347579

Pep Cipriano

TALKING OUT OF HER A*SE

MAN

about

TOWN

Facebook is full of photos of people when they’re pi$$ed like this one. But why is this bird using my column to cover her bum? Is it a sexual signal for me to pursue or is it demonstrating disapproval of my work?

Someone must know, email me.

AS HEARD ON

pep.cipriano@espmag.co.uk

Proudly sponsored by

36 New Road, Peterborough 01733 891224 www.latinis.co.uk

FIGHT NIGHT INVITE FOR CLAIRE AND I

TWO WHEELS FOR SUMMER! Last year I took to the city’s roads on a Vespa after getting my CBT and now it’s time to get my full bike license so I can give a girl a ride on my chopper. CAM Rider in Werrington will be providing the expert tutorage and I’ll be bringing you a monthly report on how these guys get me test ready and passed.

But before I could jump on a bike and ride off into the Frank Perkins Parkway sunset, CAM Rider put me on a simple fourhour gear conversion course, which converted me as a scooter rider (automatic gears, twist and go) to motorcycle with gears.

Tutors Mark and Fran started me at their off-road training facility and once I’d reached a safe, confident standard it was time to hit the public roads. Completing the course ensured: • • • • • • • • •

Familiarisation with a geared bike Controlled and safe pulling away Coming to a controlled stop Observation and awareness techniques Smooth use of the gearbox Clutch control Effective riding at slow speed Effective emergency stops Ability to carry out U-Turns

Any pre-course nerves quickly disappeared after meeting Mark on my first day. He and Fran demonstrated patience and calmness (I did annoyingly stall a couple of times) and based just on their attitude, advice and approach, I’d recommend CAM Rider without a second thought.

Next month I move up to a 125cc bike in preparation for the leap to a 500cc machine. Check out www.camrider.com or email peterborough@camrider.com Call 01733 320820.

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www.espmag.co.uk ( May )

JLS CLOBBER IN PARK ROAD When I met Aston and JLS last month the last thing I expected band member Marvin to greet me with was, “Cool man, you’ve got a Zanerobe hoodie!” This means I own a celebrity-endorsed hoodie.

Better still, you can get Zanerobe hoodies and other designer gear by French Connection, Supreme Being, Weekend Offender, Solid and Spy Denim at recently opened clothing store, Fly. Owner Ian King is a local lad and with any local business the message is the same – support them! At the time of writing, six empty units dominate the start of Park Road.

Hopefully Ian setting up shop will encourage other businesses to fill those voids.

White-collar boxing comes to our city on May 28 and our Face of ESP Claire Smith joins me at the Holiday Inn show where regular guys from normal everyday jobs will be trying their hand at boxing in six bouts of three two-minute rounds. Each contest will be matched according to weight, age and experience and the fights are always explosive encounters. There are only a handful of tickets left for the £45 show, which includes a three-course meal. The event starts at 7.30pm.

Call 01733 553420.

BOURNE TO SCOFF CAKE Good to see Bourne getting a boost with a transformed coffee stop, new wine bar and restaurant, which are all part of the former Angel Hotel. Ostlers Bar is a stylish place serving coffee and homemade cakes - and on Friday and Saturday evenings it makes a smooth transition into a trendy wine bar. The former Fratellis restaurant is now The Brasserie, specialising in dishes with Lincolnshire-sourced ingredients. A few more places like this and Bourne, with its already established and popular watering holes, will soon make the weekend night out of town shortlist like Stamford and Deeping. Check out my Paparazzi in Bourne on pages 32 and 33 – we had so many we’ll have to print the rest next month! Take a look on www.espmag.co.uk to see them all.

‘THE BAR’ OPENING SOON? I’d be on a yacht in the Seychelles with some Page 3 bird if I had a pound for every time I wrote about The Bar re-opening. Word is the city’s best bar since Milano’s could be back in business this summer. There’s more chance of predicting this week’s Lotto numbers. Here you go: 3, 18, 29, 34, 36, and 42.

EYE 10K HERE WE COME Well done to Mark Thomas and Gary Hercock who joined me on the Thorney 10k and put in respectable times, which I’m sure they’ll beat in Eye on May 10. I’ll be there attempting to smash my personal best by running each mile in 7min 30 seconds as long as my knee ligaments hold out. Running in 10k races is a great way to get in shape both physically and mentally. Check out the A1 Series (local 10k runs) at www.advanceperformance.co.uk

WELCOME ABOARD LATINIS Big shout to Latinis and Bar Cuba who are my new Man About Town sponsors. The guys down at New Road (opposite Liquid) are putting on a belly dancing night on May 3, costing just a fiver to get in and you get a free cocktail or drink of your choice! A ‘make your own cocktail’ evening is also on its way and once the summer kicks in, Latinis will be throwing a beach party and cocktail event. In the meantime there’s a ‘buy one get one free’ at the bar on weekends (when mentioned) after 10pm and eat as much tapas as you like for a tenner Monday to Thursday from 6 - 9pm.

Check out www.latinis.co.uk or give the guys a call on 01733 891224.

LOUISE LIFTS THREE TIMES A LADY! Guests on Talking Sport with me and Phil Adlam on Lite FM (Wednesdays 7- 8pm) don’t come any bigger (stronger in this case) than world champion powerlifter Louise Fox. Local lass Louise recently set a new world record for a deadlift when she lifted 26 stone (three times her bodyweight), which is something a really good male powerlifter would be expected to achieve!

In June Louise, (featured last month in ESP’s ‘Perfect 10 Success Stories’ series) will be setting her sights on smashing even more records at the European Powerlifting Championships in Estonia. For a woman weighing just over eight stone and standing a tad over five feet tall, Louise’s achievements in a sport she’s still relitavley new to compered to her challengers, are outstanding.

Securing a small amount of sponsorship will see Louise maintain her stranglehold in world record beating powerlifting. Anyone interested in helping Louise ensure she remains a world champion should contact her at www.louisefoxpowerlifting.com

NEW BRAYS ALBUM A CRACKER!

OUT:

CIAOS

Local band The Brays launched their new album, ‘Outside The Inside’ at London’s O2 Arena at the start of May (ESP was there and we’ll feature the guys next month). I was handed a copy the minute the boys were done at the recording studio and was told it was their best material to date. I listened and being honest, there wasn’t a track (apart from two or three already established ones) that made me come out in goosepimples. But then a week later I listened to it again and wow! ‘Outside The Inside’ is definitely a grower. Every track cleverly reels you in and what’s immediately apparent is how much Gavin Hyde’s voice has matured and how good his songwriting capabilities are. The rest of the band have come on leaps and bounds too, with every musical instrument on each track working in harmony like a well-oiled machine. Two tracks that stand out for me in particular are ‘Melinda Gray’ and ‘Spinning Wheels’. Well done lads, this is a very good album indeed. Visit www.the-brays.co.uk

• • • • • •

‘Northern bird’ – do you miss trimming your hedge?

Michael and Lorna (but not Kirsty again) Carlo – time you saw me spit again…

Paolo @ Toscanini – is Spaghetti Della Casa back on?!

Sadie @ Cloisters – thanks for the Peroni Anyone I’ve promised ciaos to but weren’t important enough

Gift vouchers available We offer both Spa Day Packages as well as Spa Breaks for as long as you need.

The location is perfect for Mother and Daughter Breaks, Hen Parties, Detox Breaks or simply for those looking for a bit of love and attention.

• Full range of beauty treatments for both men and women • Hairdressing for men and women

20%OFF all hair treatments and 10% off all beauty treatments To get your voucher please text the words ‘Barnsdale’ with your name and email address to the number shown or email your name and number to offers@espmag.co.uk.

Alternatively log onto www.espmag.co.uk and click on the Barnsdale logo and print your voucher.

Text hotline 07762 147679 or email offers@espmag.co.uk

Barnsdale Hall Hotel, Nr Oakham, Rutland LE15 8AB Tel: 01572 757 901 Spa direct: 01572 771313 www.barnsdalehotel.co.uk Opening Hours Monday 9am – 5pm, Tuesday to Thursday 10am – 6pm, Friday 10am - 8pm, Saturday 9am – 6pm

CLAIRE IS IN HER ELEMIS ELEMENT IN MICHAEL JOHN’S BEAUTY ROOM Every girl wants to look gorgeous and our Face of ESP Claire Smith knows just where to go to get great beauty treatment.

Not only does Claire get to keep her locks looking luscious at Michael John she also benefits from their fabulous beauty treatments – another great prize of £500 she has to spend, lucky girl!

Beauty therapist Steph runs the Elemis Beauty Room at the Queensgate salon and offers just about everything you need to look great this summer.

We know she doesn’t need it, but Claire tried out the new Pro-collagen Quartz Lift Facial at the salon and looked even lovelier after her pampering. This new treatment is clinically proven to reduce wrinkles by 94% and to improve skin firmness by 57% after just one treatment. Even better, you won’t break out in spots afterwards with this one, so it’s even suitable for the day before your wedding and the effects last 8-10 days.

“I absolutely love Elemis products and never get the time to really pamper myself,” said Claire, “so to be given £500 to spend on massages, facials, pedicures and manicures is like pure luxury.

“The new Pro-collagen Quartz Lift Facial given to me by Steph was superb - in fact it’s the best facial I have ever had in 34 years! My skin felt

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www.espmag.co.uk ( May )

amazing and really rejuvenated. The Beauty Room is a hidden gem inside Michael John that everyone needs to discover for themselves!”

Steph’s been at the salon just over two years now and has gone from strength to strength; regularly adding to her experience by gaining further qualifications in a range of treatments.

Steph uses Elemis as her skin care product range which she finds adapts to all skin types and ages, while for neat nails she prefers the popular O.P.I brand and has a great selection of colours.

They specialize in Brazilian and Hollywood waxing just in case you want a little more off down below! For the face though, Steph recommends Epil Pro for eradicating unwanted hair around the lip and chin area.

“There are five reasons why Epil Pro is preferable to electrolysis,” says Steph “It’s relatively pain free, there’s no scarring, it’s non-invasive, no needles are involved and an entire area can be cleared in one session.”

MAY OFFERS Pro-collagen Quartz Lift Facial - on offer from £45 instead of the usual £65 A 45 minute Indian Head Massage - £22 A 1hr 15min Reflexology treatment is £22 20% off manicures and pedicures.

You can get a glow before summer time with either a St Tropez or a Fake Bake, or if you like spray tans they offer St Tropez Aerobronze which is something you can do yourself at home, with no mess and easy application.

We don’t all have Claire’s £500 spending treat, but every month Steph has beauty offers giving you great prices on some of the most wanted treatments… go on spoil yourself!

Michael John Elemis Beauty Room Queensgate, Peterborough Tel: 01733 553732

joanne.quinney@espmag.co.uk

LOCALFASHION

GET YOUR FASHION FIVE-A-DAY

There is no longer any sign of winter in the shops, Spring has truly arrived and before you know it summer will be upon us! It’s time to look around and see what this season holds in the style stakes, and ESP’s Joanne Quinney makes it a little easier with her Top 5 tips on what to invest in over the next few months…

1

ONE FOR THE BOYS… AMERICANA Let’s not forget the men in our lives…summer style for men has never been so easy or versatile. Geek chic rules - think of the1950’s/60’s preppy image and you’re on your way. Vintage denim, check shirts, cardigans and tank tops are covering the high street stores right now.

Roll back the sleeves on a long-sleeved shirt to add more of an edge and a modern twist.

Burton:

RED BLUE CHECK SHIRT AND TIE SET (TIE NOT SHOWN)

Price £28

Burton:

GREY SLEEVE STRIP CARDIGAN Price £28

NEXT:

COBALT LAMBSWOOL V-NECK Price £32

NEXT:

SMALL CHECK LACE-UP PUMPS Price £30

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www.espmag.co.uk ( May )

2

80’s REVIVAL It’s been on the cards for some time now, and it’s slowly crept into our wardrobes; one shoulder tops, neon colours, leggings…now it’s hitting the high street hard. Yes, apparently we do want to live forever, Fame style, because the 80’s keep making a come-back! Crop tops (for those who have six packs), Madonna-esque lace gloves, lace leggings and the dreaded jump suit are all over the high street. It may be best to start in small doses, a pinch of colour here, a dab of lace there if you don’t fancy throwing yourself straight into it. Lily Allen looks great in a jump suit but not everyone does, so learn what suits your shape and flatters your figure.

Dorothey Perkins:

MINK SATIN JUMPSUIT Price £40 River Island:

SUEDE CLUTCH

80s PAINT SPLASH, ONE SHOULDER DRESS

Price £25

Price £59.99

NEXT:

NEXT:

STRAPPY JUMPSUIT Price £32

3

STATEMENT SHOE Gladiator sandals have taken a slight twist this summer, the platforms are higher and so are the heels!

Colour is key, to mix and match tones with the bright colours that are around at the moment, including coral and electric blue. Nude colours also look amazing when teamed with a patterned dress or top, so don’t be afraid to walk tall; you may have to start perfecting your strut!

Dorothey Perkins:

CREAM STRAPPY PLATFORMS Price £35

NEXT:

PATENT T-BAR SANDALS Price £25

NEXT:

WEAVE PLATFORM SHOES Price £50

Warehouse:

DOUBLE BUCKLE GLADIATOR Price £75

New Look:

PLATFORM HEELS Price £40

www.espmag.co.uk ( May )

17

4

FLORAL Last summer’s biggest hit is making a comeback this year, but this time it’s bigger, bolder and brighter! Thank goodness we can still wear those little floral skirts we loved last year, but this season bag yourself a strapless tulip number, great for emphasising shoulders and collar bones. Anything goes when it comes to prints and colours and you can also wear a ditsy print tea dress during the day, dressed down with flip flops. Prints in general are huge this season, including Aztec and oriental, so don’t shy away from these gorgeous patterns and colours.

Dorothey Perkins:

Dorothey Perkins:

NEXT:

River Island:

FLORAL PRINT SHIFT DRESS

DITSY PRINT TEA-DRESS

FLORAL DRESS

MULTI FLORAL DRESS

Price £40

Price £35

Price £25

Price £59.99

5

A RANGE OF DENIM AVAILABLE AT MISS SELFRIDGE

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www.espmag.co.uk ( May )

DENIM Straight off the back of the 80’s revival is another huge hit on the high street, denim – and lots of it! All shades, including stonewash and bleached are back. Denim jackets were massive almost 10 years ago (not sure if girl group Bewitched were to thank for that trend, or they may have stopped it…) so you must remember to dig out that faded denim jacket and team it with this season’s florals to be bang on trend, just like the girls from The Hills!

Dorothey Perkins:

River Island:

STUD DETAIL DENIM JACKET

BLEACH WASH DENIM JACKET

Price £30

Price £39.99

JLS – THE HOMECOMING GIG Peterborough’s Aston Merrygold was the star of the show when JLS performed two dates in front of more than 2,500 people at Club Metro. Our Man About Town Pep Cipriano fought through crowds of screaming females and caught up with the X Factor sensation…

I think my ears have finally stopped bleeding. Or at least that’s what they felt like they were doing after having to endure screams of “Aston!” - “Aston you’re well fit!” and “Aston marry me!” at Peterborough’s Club Metro.

Aston may not be marrying any of his fans just yet but he and his fellow JLS band mates Oritsé, Marvin and JB didn’t set out to break any hearts. Instead they raised the roof and with it broke some kind of decibel record for screaming fans, that’s for sure.

The boys didn’t disappoint. They were as fresh as they were on X Factor and livelier on stage than they were on the telly. There’s something special about JLS performing in the flesh and we’ve definitely not seen the last of Aston and the lads appearing in Peterborough.

Well done to Club Metro for providing a fitting venue for JLS’s city debut and a pat on the back to promoter Simon Baker for booking the boys to perform here in the first place.

Just when I thought the screams couldn’t get any louder, they did (that’s what happens when two celebrities are seen together), so we grabbed a cosy chat in the Metro VIP room…

“The downside of being famous is losing some of the things you take for granted like being able to walk to the shop on your own without being noticed all the time. But this is a small price to pay because this is what I’ve always wanted and it’s part and parcel of the dream.”

You’re living the dream, performing all over the country and in front of more than 2,500 fans here in your hometown.

Are you still pinching yourself?

The talent coming out of Peterborough has never been better. You join the likes of Louis Smith and Luke Pasqualino as emerging stars that promise to continue achieving. What advice can you give to young people who aspire to follow in your footsteps?

“Yes I’m pinching myself everyday! I go to bed with a smile and wake up with one because I’m doing what I’ve dreamed of doing for years. But coming home is the best feeling ever. There are people who have come to watch me that have known me all my life and there are others I went to school with or who are friends of friends – it’s really special being able to sing with the boys in Peterborough.”

So what’s in store for JLS during the rest of 2009?

“Luke and Louis have worked hard and made sacrifices to get where they are – and like me, they realise there’s still a lot of hard work and commitment to give because this is just the tip of the iceberg for us. I’ve known Louis since we were in nappies and he’s an inspiration to all young people. He trains extremely hard seven days a week and he’s inspired and pushed me to realise my dream. My advice is you have to put the work in. You only get out what you put in. It’s all about hard work, dedication, determination and never giving up on your dreams.”

“We’re making good progress in recording the album and we’d like to kick-off a major tour at the end of the year. We don’t know at this stage who we’ll be supporting but we’re quite sure it’ll be a big name. We’ve backed Lemar as part of the X Factor tour, he’s fantastic and we’ve performed with him, which has been a great experience for us.”

What’s the best thing about being famous?

“I’m 21 and single. You can’t really go wrong with having thousands of girls screaming at you! So that’s definitely a good thing! www.espmag.co.uk ( May )

19

Matt

S Zilch T A M F O R DCALLING

Proudly sponsored by

3 Ironmongers St Stamford 01780 766159

matt.zilch@espmag.co.uk

Dan from Mama Liz’s

TICKETS THIS WAY FOR THE STAMFORD EXPRESS! What an amazing feeling it is when the sun finally comes out. I think ELO said it best when they said ‘Mr Blue Sky why did you hide away for so long…’ I think it’s the best antidepressant of them all in this time of capitalist collapse!

One event that always gets me excited is the Riverside Festival in Stamford. It’s like our town’s own little Glastonbury just without so much mud! I’ve played in the beer tent down there quite a few times over the last few years and the festival always puts on a great line-up of local and national bands. When the final line-up comes out I’ll let you know my five mustsee bands of the festival, but for now get Saturday July 4 in your diary and keep an eye on www.creationbooth.co.uk/riversidefestival for all the latest.

DREAM ON BABY I’ll be nipping down to Burghley House on Saturday May 9, only for a bit of window shopping…The Ferrari Owners Club are holding their open day. Around 200 of the Italian beasts will be gurgling and screaming their way to the lovely park that sits on our very doorstep. I can’t afford one but if I can manage to get my pic taken next to one I may be able to convince a few Stamford girls that I’m richer than I appear… Don’t let ‘em know I drive a Vauxhall, keep it shut please… www.ferrariownersclub.co.uk / www.burghley.co.uk

Tony from The Green Man

FOUR TOP STAMFORD PUBS ENTERED INTO THE OAKADEMY OF EXCELLENCE! It’s great to hear four Stamford pubs have been nominated by CAMRA to be in the new ‘Oakademy of Excellence’! Mama Liz’s, The Jolly Brewer, The Green Man and The Otter’s Pocket have all been entered. The Academy of Excellence website oakademyofexcellence.com details all of the key features applicable to what it means to be an Oakademy member but basically proves they know how to keep a good pint of Oakham’s real ale. They list the venues on their special member’s page and also provide a link to the pub’s own website. A tickers page is also included to let the followers of their beers and the pub outlet, know where and when certain beers are on sale. Pop into any of the pubs to see their impressive certificate which should be proudly on display!

SUE RYDER CHARITY NIGHT AT THE INVADER! A great evening is promised at the Danish Invader on Saturday May 2; Amy Crisp and Dave Ball have organised a Charity Night in aid of Sue Ryder Care – Thorpe Hall Hospice and Addenbrookes Neurological Unit.

Amy wanted to put on an event in memory of her mum, Jane Crisp and a good mate of mine Dave Ball was keen to hold an event in memory of his son, Lee Sharpe and they’ve joined forces to put on what promises to be a good evening. Live music will be provided by local band OAK whose music ranges from Oasis to the Rolling Stones. Entry’s free and there will also be a disco and a raffle, the evening starts at 8pm and finishes at midnight.

For more info please contact Amy on 07513 319899.

WEST END MAGIC IN STAMFORD For those of you into the great West End musical scene there’s a show going down at the Stamford Corn Exchange called ‘West End Magic’ on June 5 and you (or your kids) could be a part of it.

It’s a fantastically entertaining show combining the magical comedy of Tracie Hughes with some of the greatest hits from the musicals from Chicago through to Oliver, with an all singing, all dancing cast.

Here’s where you come in… the company are looking for local performers to get involved in the project and will be appealing to local children to get involved without having to attend dance lessons or expensive drama groups. They’re also looking for two local male dancers who’d like the opportunity to appear in a touring show, possibly drama students or just enthusiastic adults who’d enjoy the challenge.

If you fancy it give Kerry Maskell a call on 07545 575083 or for more info take a look at www.stamford-corn-exchange.co.uk

CORN EXCHANGE TRIBUTES Everyone’s favourite dinner party band Coldplay are sure to please most people, (except Joe Satriani who’s suing them for plagiarism), but in general you all like them! So I thought I’d better tell you about a tribute to Coldlay playing at the Corn Exchange on Saturday May 9.

Coldplace are a band whose quality and experience on the tribute scene are second to none. The band’s been performing since 2004 and has always strived to give the audience the closest experience you could get to seeing Coldplay themselves. The band all come from Grimsby (but don’t hold that against them) and their reputation’s spreading across the globe.

Support comes from Leicester band Ashdowne and tickets are priced at £15 available from the Arts Centre on 01780 766455.

Also at the Exchange this month are GaGa, one of the best Queen tributes in the UK - they don’t go for the dressy uppy, looky likey style but just play the songs fantastically. Brian May rates them and if it’s good enough for the permed one, it’s good enough for Stamford!

Tickets again are £15 and from the same place.

C3 STOCKING TOP DESIGNER THREADS Those guys down at C3 have asked me to mention that they have the latest designs from Lisa Jayne Dann in the shop. She’s the Independent Fashion Designer of the Year and her clothes can be seen on many celebs and fashion elite from all over the UK! For more info on her check out www.lisajaynedann.co.uk

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Life’s a beach Get in shape for the summer

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Take advantage of this exciting offer at both centres which includes unlimited use of Planet Pulse fitness suites and all fitness classes. (offer ends 12th June 2009)

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t: 01733 391 111

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

The ESP Reader Offer is only available with a coupon and is only valid when £25 or more is spent on food between 29th April - 2nd Aug 2009 inclusive.

The discount does not apply to spend on drinks or for group bookings of eight or more.

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

TEXT HOTLINE 07762 147679

Normal text rates apply

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sarah.tempest @espmag.co.uk

And speaking of Hell’s Kitchen, don’t you just find that shows like that and our other reality favourite, The Apprentice, are just not half as enjoyable or addictive now that Harry Hill’s TV Burp has finished? What I wouldn’t give for it to come back early just so Marco could have “a go on the jelly”, or for the chance to find out which is better, Claudia Winkelman’s mascara or The Apprentice’s gloopy honey soap monstrosity (all together now – FIGHHHHTTTT!), Saturday’s just aren’t the same without it.

50 OFF The Village Orton Longueville Peterborough PE2 7DN

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He’s cranky, arrogant, opinionated and keeps his greasy hair out of food with a scarf that makes him look more like a freedom fighter than a chef from Leeds. He comes out with staccato pearls of wisdom such as “Don’t. be. afraid. Of the stove,” and “I like.

Brown sauce.” And he’s so craggy and wrinkly, he makes Gordon Ramsay look like the ‘after’ shot in an ad for Botox. But after watching the last series of Hell’s Kitchen with Marco Pierre White, I’ve come to the shocking realisation that, despite everything, I still would. Oh the shame, could anything be wronger? I can only think my head must be full of lumpy pomme purée.

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A FRIEND-LY WARNING ABOUT TH E DANG ERS OF COMPUTER GAMES Friends star Matthew Perry has revealed that he’s had to have an injection in his hand after damaging it playing games for too long on his Xbox 360. So let me get this straight - a man indulging in leisure activities on his own? A repetitive strain injury in his right hand? Gosh, I didn’t realise just how dangerous those Xboxes could be! Bearing in mind he’s starring in ‘17 Again’, a movie about a grown up man who becom es a teenager again, he’s clearly very dedicated to his research!

Beauty

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Tel: 07773 146866 for a price list and more information.

Quote ESP magazine when booking your first Brazilian wax and receive 10% off.

Central & Brownes is Stamford and the surrounding area’s No. 1 venue Open Wednesday & Thursday (10pm-2am) - Friday & Saturday ( 10pm-3am )

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HEALTH and beauty

by Charlotte Jolly

LANCÔME MAKE-UP ARTIST BENJAMIN ROUSSEAU GIVES CLAIRE THE STAR TREATMENT National make-up artist Benjamin Rousseau recently came to John Lewis at Queensgate, Peterborough, where he carried out make-overs, gave a master class in make-up and shared tips on how to look your best.

Benjamin is a make-up maestro who’s worked with many celebrities, including Angelina Jolie, and on many well known leading glossy magazines. He’s currently working with Lancôme and Marie Claire magazine on a project called ‘Beauty Academy’ where he answers readers’ make-up questions and offers advice on how to achieve the best results with Lancôme’s amazing range of products.

Our Face of ESP, Claire Smith, was lucky enough to be invited to join Benjamin at the Lancôme counter in John Lewis to have a professional make-over where she was made to look and feel like a million dollars. Throughout the make-over Benjamin used a variety of make-up and tools but concentrated mainly on Claire’s eyes where he started with a base of red which he then built up using different shades of purple to create a smokey effect with a twist. It was a very dramatic and different look which worked well on Claire, who was delighted with her make-over and felt honoured having it done by such an expert.

“Benjamin Rousseau putting on my make-up? Who would have thought! His work is truly as beautiful as he is! I couldn't believe all of the different techniques he was using. The girls at Lancôme made me feel so welcome and the day was unforgettable. Thank you Lancôme for my pre-birthday treat!”

Everyone involved in the event seemed to have a really enjoyable day and it’s fantastic that we were able to host someone of such expertise. Let’s hope he returns to Peterborough soon to offer more tips and tasters on what’s hot in the world of beauty!

ESP RECOMMENDS For a smooth style this Spring without breaking the bank, ESP highly recommends TRESemme’s new Frizz Control Finishing Crème and Smooth Memory Straightening Spray. With its new Smooth Memory Technology this light crème helps hair to remember its softness and smoothness and remain frizz free for up to five washes. It’s ideal for people whose hair is unmanageable, both curly and straight, as it reduces frizz and tames those annoying flyaways. It can be used on damp or dry hair to achieve soft, shiny hair that smells great too.

The Straightening Spray is also a lifesaver when it comes to creating smooth, straight styles without hassle. Perfect for hair that is naturally wavy or curly it helps your hair remember that sleek straight style. It reduces the need to obsessively straighten your hair every day which causes damage. Spray onto damp hair as it works with the heat of your hair-dryer, to create that must-have sleek look. The more you use it, the more it ‘trains’ hair to remember its style.

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BUY OF THE MONTH… With temperatures hotting up lately no-one wants to feel like they’re wearing a ‘mask’ of make-up. Why not let your skin breathe with this month’s Buy of the Month - Maybelline’s Dream Satin Liquid Foundation. It has an airwhipped formula and feels really light on your skin, in fact it doesn’t even feel like you’re wearing make-up. It gives great coverage and gives you that ‘poreless’ finish. Amazingly light-weight, it leaves skin soft and luminous.

Even better news is the price, just £7.82.

ESP TRIED AND TESTED With neon brights bang on trend this Spring, we’ve tried and tested some of the hottest pink nail varnishes about. Here’s our Top 3…

Barry M Neon Nail Paint in Neon Pink £2.95 “This bright pink will really make sure you stand out from the crowd.

It goes on well and you only need one coat. It dried very quickly so is great if you’re in a rush. Looks brilliant on toenails too.” - Alice, Deeping St James

No. 7 - Speed Dry Nail Colour in Hot Pink £6.10 “This is slightly thinner in consistency so requires two coats but once done it looks fabulous and gives a high shine finish. As the name says, it dries very quickly which is always a plus. It’s long lasting and stayed put for over a week without chipping or peeling.”

- Anna, Market Deeping

Rimmel London’s New Lycra Pro Nail Polish in Fancy Fuchsia £4.49 “The colour is gorgeous and looks great on short nails. The new maxi brush, which is nearly twice as wide as most nail varnish brushes, fits your nail perfectly so you only need one stroke and it’s done. This saves a lot of time and ensures fewer mistakes. Good value for money too, I would definitely buy this again.” - Libby, Bourne

Karen Devine

AS SEEN ON karen.devine@espmag.co.uk

TV GMTV, Lk Today and UkTV Style’s ‘Spa of Embarrassing Illnesses’

So there are two options here – 1. Get a pair of ‘Simon Cowell trousers’ which will cover them OR 2. Change some of your lifestyle habits and make new choices.

You don’t have to be carrying excess weight anywhere else to develop love handles, in fact many people say that they’re happy with their weight in general but can’t seem to shift this extra tyre around the middle. When we’re young we see it as an inconvenience for not being able to wear some of the latest fashions, but from a health point of view this midriff can develop into more serious health issues in later life.

Medical experts have warned that carrying extra fat around the middle dramatically increases your risk of early death, even if your overall weight is normal.

Although this study was based on older people, it’s a trend that will grow but begin at a younger age!

Stressing over your ‘love handles’? Or are your love handles a sign of stress. Karen Devine has the answers…

I was accused of picking on the lads with their man boobs in one of my columns, so just to prove I wasn’t picking on anyone in particular (although things need to be said sometimes), this month I want to discuss the midriff that seems to plague many women (and men) in other words… those love handles You find the love handles on top of the hips, if you put your hands on your hips this is the gathering of fat that stops your hands sliding off! With the low cut jeans and high cut tops current fashion doesn’t really do much to hide it.

If this is you and has been over a period of years, then you will have put your body under a lot of stress as it tries to cope with all the stimulation. If or when you take these stimulants away then you’ll more likely feel worn out and shattered, that’s because you’ve been getting ‘false’ energy and not your body’s natural energy reserves. It all seems good fun when you are young, but health concerns such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, chronic fatigue (and more) could be on the agenda in later life as research is finding the link between the waist fat and health issues. If you have tried reducing that spare tyre around the middle without success then you may need to look at other factors such as those mentioned above.

Our glands that manage stress are called our adrenal glands. They’re designed to support us through stress but when they’re over stimulated (such as over a long period of time), they can get worn down and affect the output of the stress hormones. This can affect us physically, mentally and emotionally.

Only you can make those lifestyle changes, your social and eating habits need to be looked at. You might want to be the life and soul of the party each weekend but all good parties come to an end, just don’t let it be your health… you’re worth more than that!

Chronic stress is one major link which contributes to gathering weight around the middle, we all go through stressful times, our bodies have been designed to get us through stressful situations, but nowadays we find that modern stress is more persistent and longer lasting. Stress hormones are corrosive on our health over a longer period of time, it robs us of nutrients quicker than anything else.

For more information on health and nutrition go to my website www.karendevine.co.uk

The hormone responsible for the ‘chronic’ stress response is called cortisol and this in turn affects how we manage carbs, proteins and fats in the diet. It also affects how we manage our emotions.

KAREN’S LATEST TALK…

Lifestyle is playing a huge role in the increase in stress! I am going to sound like an old mother writing this but sometimes the obvious is staring the young folk in the face (but if you oldies have the same habits then this includes you)…

1. Late nights – hooked into Facebook, MSN, TV, iPods night after night?

2. Spend most of the weekend out at parties or in clubs and not getting to bed till 4am (if at all)?

3. On the Red Bull or other caffeine drinks each weekend?

4. Either not eating real meals (or even skipping food) or eating a diet loaded with carbohydrates and sugars?

5. Excess alcohol and recreational drugs?

6. Ongoing stressful events in your life that you’re not dealing with?

Are you suffering from constant fatigue, irritability, hormonal problems, cravings or starting to put weight on especially around the middle and finding it difficult to shift, finding it difficult to manage stress and lifestyle and suffering from frequent colds and infections?

If so, you may want to go along to one of Karen's talks on stress and the affect on physical, mental and emotional wellbeing.

Karen regularly visits local companies to deliver practical advice for the workforce as much revenue and productivity is lost due to stress.

Date - Weds 27th May at 7pm, The Park Inn, Peterborough.

If you would like more information please email karen.devine@espmag.co.uk for details.

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

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Confessions...

Susan Saunders

susan.saunders@espmag.co.uk

Is single the new married?

As I sat in Starbucks the other day chatting with a few friends, sipping on my caramel frappachino, something dawned on me… ‘Was single the new married?’* Now, I’m a single girl and my age would dictate that I’m very much in my heyday. A fly-on-thewall that day would pretty much sum up my main activities as laughing, joking and sharing company with a man… and three others. Not like that (you dirty-minded individuals) as we sat sharing stories and experiences with each other and having a lot of fun. Not necessarily the qualities that myth would associate with us single ladies as being sad, desperate and lonely. I, indeed, was none of these.

Laughing our way through topics of chat-up lines, careers and gender preferences (!) the tone changed somewhat to one of my friends who has a girlfriend but doesn’t want to admit it. When delving a little, we worked out that our friend was incredibly happy with his ‘nongirlfriend’ because they hadn’t had the ‘conversation’ which defines what they are. I was told that should they be defined as ‘boyfriend and girlfriend’, the pressure is then on and he buckles as if being quizzed by the Spanish Inquisition.

All this got me slightly unsettled. The more I heard, the more I was glad to be sitting on the single side of the fence… relationships/men all just seem a bit too confusing to me. When I was a teeny bopper, it all seemed a little less confusing. He likes me (he yanks my hair and asks me for a snog). He likes me not (he tells me how he thinks my mate’s hot and ‘hook us up yeah’). Nowadays, men are harder to second-guess - either that or I’m just not too interested in working them out!

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Gone, or so it seems, are the days that you pine after security and togetherness – I want a man, like, neverrrr!** Togetherness, not so much in the couple sense but more in the bringing people together like your mates, is much more appealing to me.

It may be hard to get to the crux of what I’m saying so I’ve worked out some simple, algebraic equations for your perusal (who said Maths wasn’t fun?); X + Y = Z… in other words ‘Susan + friends = carefree’ and free from the worry that you may be embarrassing someone other than yourself.

X + X × X + Y ÷ Z = Susan meets a guy. She gets on well with him and his friends… until she realises that she is also his ‘non girlfriend’ and it all gets a little bit complex and unsettling. Susan dumps guy. Susan slates guy. Susan declares she doesn’t want a guy everrrrrrr!

Has this circle of ‘single vs. not single’ been experienced by any of you ladies? Sound familiar? So as you prepare yourself for the summer sun – along with the hot bikini and suntan lotion, make sure you’re fully equipped with ‘boyfriend repellent’ but plenty of ‘come hither you fine specimen of a single man for the summer’ lotion (can be bought from all good retailers).*** Give me straightforward banterville any day of the week. Single is definitely the new married.

Susan’s disclaimer *I say ‘single is the new married’, though as I drove home, looking forward to my tea for one I was going to cook, I hoped that the fun and laughter that I’d had earlier, would give me comfort… as I crawled into a lonely cold bed singing a rendition of ‘All by myself…don’t wanna be….’. Yes, this is the life! **OK so that might be a bit of a lie. I’m sure I’ll want a boyfriend at some stage, just not right now... or maybe I just haven’t met him yet… or maybe I’m confused and in denial – who knows? *** These products are ridiculous and can’t be bought anywhere!

‘Making good’ our neighbour ’hood’ Plastic police or the real deal? The clue’s in the title boys and girls… Police ‘Community Support’ Officer. The PCSOs are making a big difference with a return to the traditional techniques of spending time in our neighbourhoods, dealing with the day to day stuff that gets everybody down.

Hoodies hanging about, vandalism, intimidation, even just being loud and out of order on street corners – it all cheeses us off but who’s around to help? People like Amanda Butler a Peterborough PCSO who’s proving they do make a difference.

She met teenager Jody Beever while out on patrol in Orton and although she was “a bit gobby” Amanda took the time to find out her name and have a chat. From those humble beginnings Amanda developed a friendship and managed to help Jody fulfil an ambition to enlist in the army – something at times Jody thought she couldn’t achieve.

“Jody just needed someone to talk to more than anything. She was just hanging around, nothing to do.” says Amanda “She’s a very strong character I would say and sometimes verbally did get a bit out of hand but I think I just tried to reason with her to find out what she wanted to do, I knew she was interested in joining the army and between us we managed to get her there.”

The 18 year-old admits to being a typical bored teenager hanging about in a gang, messing about and egging each other on to get up to no good.

“I was happy with that then but now I’m not because I’ve moved on,” says Jody, “I can see it was a waste of time. I used to be cheeky to Amanda and never listened to anyone, I always thought I was right.”

Jody liked sports and had an interest in the army but the process kept getting delayed and she nearly gave up, but Amanda was there and put in the extra help to keep her focussed.

“I don’t see it as anything special,” says Amanda. “I just think Jody’s a nice kid, I enjoy her company and enjoyed seeing her change and develop.

“I’m dead proud of her now. She invited me to her passing out parade in February and it was really brilliant, like seeing someone from your own family. I had a fantastic day.”

0845 456 456 4 www.cambs.police.uk

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Now Jody can see she has a far better future ahead of her but she could easily have drifted.

“The army’s made me someone different in every way. I listen to people more and if people tell me to do something I do it.

“I’ve achieved something, I’ve passed loads of tests when at times I never thought I’d even get through selection. My aim is to become a police officer in the army.”

Now Amanda turns her focus to the other problems in the neighbourhood chatting to the locals about their concerns and trying to help other kids aim for something better.

“I must admit I never thought I’d enjoy a job as much as I do this one,” she says. “I just enjoy being part of the community and I think I’d miss that if I became a regular PC. I feel this is where I’m meant to be and just want to develop it. For me it’s the best job I’ve ever had.”

SAFE HOME SCHEME Personal Taxi Service for a safe journey home In conjunction with

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A FAR BETTA WAY TO TRAVEL

Caught in th THE ESP PAPARAZZI CREW HIT BOURNE PART 1 Pep and his glamorous Paparazzi models Becca and Jess made a welcome return to Bourne after enjoying their previous visit so much. Once again the photo crew were given the red carpet treatment and can’t wait to go back in the summer!

All the talk in Bourne is of the re-opening of the former Angel Hotel coffee shop and restaurant (formerly Fratellis). Pep and the girls were invited to the coffee shop’s VIP opening evening, which didn’t disappoint.

Now called Ostlers Bar, this stylish little place serves coffee and other hot drinks plus scrumptious homemade cakes and scones during the day Monday to Friday and at weekends (Friday and Saturday) it’s transformed into a wine bar offering a wide range of yummy cocktails and fine wines.

Owners Matt and Alan and the lovely Jennette who is keen to promote Bourne’s newest bar insisted Pep and his lens lovelies sample some cocktails – after all, photographing people having fun is thirsty work! One Cosmopolitan, Caribbean Sorbet and Tropical Pina later, the guys were ready to hit the next venue but not before trying one of their delicious fairy cakes.

Next stop was Smiths and Pep reported being swamped by dozens of revellers wanting their photos taken! The place was packed to the rafters with locals and students on their college break. No matter what room they went into (and even outside) Smith’s was booming with people having a drink and a good catch-up over an ice-cold beer.

The Jubilee was also bursting at the seams and thanks to the guys there for fuelling up the Paparazzi team with a round of drinks on the house. The Jubilee’s unique two-room layout means you can chill downstairs or nip upstairs for a boogie. Our guys love their visits to The Jubilee and are always impressed with the friendly doormen and bar staff.

See Part 2 of our Bourne Paparazzi in Junes issue or go to: www.espmag.co.uk

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he act?

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ESPCELEBS Introducing… Pixie Lott. Get used to this face, you’re going to be seeing much more of this 18 year-old pretty soon. With a rich voice, gorgeous looks and great moves it looks like Pixie’s got the ‘Lott’…

She’s certainly got the looks to attract attention but hear the voice and you’ll understand why there’s been a record label battle going on over this new talent.

This girl sounds far older than her teenage years and sounds like she’s been singing for years with a richness to her vocals which will surprise you. You’ll be hearing her new single ‘Mama Do’ a lot and with a host of TV and radio appearances booked Pixie will be thrust into the pop spotlight over the coming weeks.

Before she’s fifty - the age at which she will officially identify herself as "old" - Pixie Lott has a handful of modest ambitions on her checklist.

To meet amazing people, that's one.

Performing in amazing places? That's another. She wants to keep all the friends she's got now, but also to make loads of new ones, and she wants to keep writing songs, including a few that change people's lives. Finally, she reckons, she wants "to sing for ever and ever and ever."

Pixie's tracks fizz with excitement and represent a good 18 months spent working around the world with the cream of pop's top tunesmiths like Cutfather and Jonas Jeburg (who've

tt o l e i x i P

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worked with everyone from Kylie to the Pussycat Dolls), Red One (Lady Gaga 'Just Dance') and many more.

Now she’s preparing to support last month’s ESP cover girls, The Saturdays on their first headline tour.

She grew up in Kent and was nicknamed Pixie at a young age (you can only call her by her real name if she's misbehaved) and at school her interest in singing and dancing had led to an audition for Italia Conti. She bagged a rare scholarship for the stage school which let her pursue her singing and dancing dreams and opened doors to West End appearances in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang through to recording with Pink Floyd's Roger Waters.

When she was 14, Pixie found herself flicking through The Stage and responded to a classified ad that would set everything in motion. "I remember I was at school," Pixie recalls, "and I got a message through telling me that LA Reid was flying over to meet me the next day in a hotel room. I didn't even know who he was and I'd never done any meetings." As she discovered, LA Reid was a Grammy Award-winning songwriter and producer. She made up a dentist appointment, skipped the next day's lessons, sang a Mariah Carey song for LA, went back to school the next day and didn't tell anyone.

As time went by and more demos were posted on Pixie's MySpace a bidding war broke out, eventually leading Pixie to sign with Mercury in the UK and Interscope in America.

With a bagful of tunes ready to be unleashed Pixie’s varied style will soon become evident - "There has to be an emotional strength and an honesty in what I'm singing, whether they're lyrics I've written by myself or not. I need to mean it to sing it." One she’s written herself is the Alicia Keys-esque ballad 'Cry Me Out' “'Cry Me Out' is a song which says, 'it's really time to get over yourself'," Pixie smiles. "You could put it right alongside Justin's 'Cry Me A River', telling someone they have to accept the blame, that 'the tears are fallin' mean nothing at all'."

At a time where the success of an artist seems to be measured in their product endorsements or their appearances on reality TV shows, Pixie’s ambitions are reassuringly traditional. She'll know she's succeeded, she says, "when I've sold CDs, when I look out and there's a massive crowd." Simple aims, then, and it's no coincidence that her music, too, takes us back to a slightly more carefree time in pop, where all that mattered were big tunes, big ideas, and brilliant singers.

"There's a little place for me," Pixie says, hands crossed politely on the table. "I can't wait to really get out there..."

The debut single ‘Mama Do’ is out early June, her album 'Turn It Up' will be released in September.

Catch her live supporting The Saturdays at Cambridge Corn Exchange on June 13 and on T4 on May 30 and Freshly Squeezed on June 1. www.pixielott.com http://www.bebo.com/Profile.jsp?MemberId=6095402016

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Just 2 miles from the centre of Peterborough, the Holiday Inn Peterborough West is one of the city's most prestigious hotels, fully air conditioned and situated opposite an excellent 18-hole golf course and some 500 acres of beautiful parkland. With our recent refurbishment, our contemporary restaurant has an excellent reputation, as has the hotel's Club Moativation with pool, spa, sauna, steam room, aerobics, beauty treatment, solarium and gym. Golf at Thorpe Wood course opposite the hotel can be pre-booked.

Holiday Inn Peterborough West Thorpewood, Peterborough PE3 6SG

Tel: 0870 7879 861 www.holidayinn.co.uk

Friday 5th June County Ball This year the County Ball celebrates its 20th presentation and promises yet another spectacular evening of dining and entertainment.

Full ticket £75.00 per person Late night revellers (entertainment only) £30.00 per person

Friday 31st July Take That Tribute Night £19.95 per person including 3 course dinner entertainment & disco

Here come the girls!

Get ready… it’s back! The Face of ESP competition 2009 launches next month so come on girls, get the lip gloss out, get your hair done and get those entry photos at the ready because who knows… this year it could be you!

Once again we’ll begin the search for our next Face of ESP, the girl who’ll step into Claire Smith’s high heels and strut her stuff on behalf of Peterborough’s premier magazine. We’ll be looking for a girl who can be a true ambassador for the mag, a girl with a great personality who can represent us at loads of top events and who keeps herself in shape.

Claire has already made a big impression and has been glamming it up at events ranging from the Christmas lights switch on to Spring Balls and there’s so much more to come. Claire’s also doing her bit for charity and will be strutting her stuff in the Midnight Walk this month for Sue Ryder Care as well as strutting down the catwalk at the Green Festival Fashion Show in Queensgate.

“I was completely shocked and seriously never thought I stood a chance as I was pretty much the grandma of the group!

“So far being the Face of ESP has been really great fun and extremely rewarding in more ways than

FASHION

COSMETIC DENTISTRY

BEAUTY

FITNESS EQPT/SUPPLEMENTS

FAMILY SHOPPING EXPERIENCE

one. It’s been really wonderful meeting and doing so many things that you wouldn't normally pencil into your diary and I have loved working with the ESP team, they have made me feel like one of the family. It’s such a great experience.

“One of my mottos in life is 'you never know, until you try' so girls of all different shapes, sizes and ages should apply. It’s such a social opportunity, a real confidence builder and gives you a better insight into Peterborough, its community and the people behind it.”

This year the big social event of the year moves to The Holiday Inn at Thorpe Wood with the fabulous Face of ESP Finals taking place on Friday September 11, so cancel all holidays/hen dos/birthday celebrations because this is the only event to be seen at that night! As ESP is celebrating ten years in business you can bet this night is going to be a very special party.

The competition is attracting more and more great sponsors and will have an even bigger prize fund so get ready to wow us. Grab your copy of ESP next month for details of how to enter.

JEWELLRY

WHEELS

Stephen

Diggle GOLDSMITH

HAIR

NAILS

HOSPITALITY

SUPPORTED BY

FITNESS

Sponsor opportunities 01733 579707 for details 36

www.espmag.co.uk ( May )

INSPIRATION Sound and Lighting

TEXTILE CARE

• Over 600 R18 DVD’s in stock - Buy 2 get 3rd half price • Dream Lingerie now in stock

Top labels including:

SUSAN’S A SOCCERETTE

FOR THE POSH! Former Face of ESP and Confessions columnist Susan Saunders did her bit for the Posh when she appeared on Sky in her Peterborough United strip. Susan was a Soccerette recently on SoccerAM and certainly proved she was ‘Match Fit’.

“I’ve been watching the show for years and it's such a laugh,” Susan told ESP. “The guys involved in the show have such great banter that I just wanted to get in on the action, if only for one day.

Appearing on the show really did meet my expectations and more and the whole day was a lot of fun.

“I wore the Peterborough United shirt as whilst I haven't been watching the team for long (two seasons) I’m good friends with a few of the boys as some of my best friends are going out with a few of the players. I do also support Man U, who I've supported since I was seven but nowadays, I know more about Posh! I was proud to wear their shirt on SoccerAM because they’re very talented and good guys who make up the team and they're my local side.”

You can take a look if you missed Susan’s appearance on: www.skysports.com/socceram/soccerettes/0,21655,13874,00.html

sport@espmag.co.uk

LOCALSPORT 92 GROUNDS IN 92 HOURS We’d just like to congratulate two teams of fundraisers from the Boro who completed a gruelling tour to visit 92 football grounds in 92 hours and raised nearly £4,000, which is a fantastic amount of money.

The Red team which included Andy Mills, David Wool, Damon Williams and Chris Slade travelled clockwise around the country, arrived back at London Road 87 hours after starting out from Colchester United. While the Blue team - Sam Downing, Jack Thorpe, Mark Dowling and Steve Thorpe travelled anticlockwise.

Steve Thorpe from the Free Kicks Foundation who they were raising the cash for, told ESP - "We had a fantastic, if tiring time but it was all well worth it! To raise nearly £4,000 in the current climate is a fantastic achievement. Our team were even lucky enough to meet Sir Geoff Hurst on the way round at Chester City!

“We’re indebted to Boro Cars and Conders Garage for the loan of the cars for the trip, and everybody who supported us around the country and especially BBC Radio Cambridgeshire for their coverage."

PANTHERS BUSY IN MAY The Peterborough Panthers speedway team hit problems at the start of the 2009 season with young Polish star Karol Zabik forced to pull out of the team owing to a serious illness to a close family member which required major surgery.

Thankfully the situation has stabilised and Panthers were able to re declare Karol back into the team in the middle of April and they’re confident May will be a better month for the team.

Unfortunately without Karol on board at the start the Panthers slipped and they lost their opening five fixtures of the season which included three at home, and went out of the KO Cup to Coventry. They also lost star turn Claus Vissing in the home defeat by Lakeside when he sustained a broken collarbone in a high speed crash with the Hammers’ Joonas Kylmakorpi.

Young Danes Rene Bach and now Kenneth Hansen have provided cover during late March and April and the team are now back on track following wins over Ipswich.

They’re also delighted to have signed Danish star Henning Bager.

May is the start of a busy month for the Panthers with eight fixtures including two over the bank holiday weekends, although only one of these is at home at the Showground.

Thursday 7th May –

Peterborough v Belle Vue ELA

Thursday 14th May – Peterborough v Poole ELB

The aim of Free Kicks is to provide football-related activities for ill, bereaved and disadvantaged children, to give them a day to remember with their favourite football club.

Thursday 28th May – Peterborough v Eastbourne

www.freekicksfoundation.com

www.peterboroughspeedway.net

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Monday 25th May – Peterborough v Swindon ELA

Lunchtime Offer Mon - Sat 12.00 - 2pm - 3 courses £9.50 Starter: Garlic bread or garlic bread with cheese, served with marinated olives Main: Any pizza or pasta dish Sweet: home made dessert or coffee 175ml glass of red or white wine for only £2.50

The Golden Pheasant

Bookings now be taken for Spalding Flower Parade (Open all day)

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

Bank Holiday Beer Festival May 1st - 3rd - 15 real ales Live music Saturday night and Sunday afternoon all held in the marquee.

BBQ Friday night - food available all weekend Bank holiday Mondays are family days with bouncy castle and live entertainment on Monday 25th

For friends… for romance… for fine food… ... we’re the perfect place to dine!

• Food served Tuesday - Sunday • Open all day Sat & Sun • Real ales, large beer garden and parking area Main Road, Etton, Peterborough. Tel: 01733 252387 www.goldenpheasant.net

www.amicispalding.co.uk

Credit Munch! Let us help you beat this credit crunch Our fantastic ‘4 eat for 3’ deal is now back

Any four diners who pre-book a table in our restaurant will be able to select four main courses and only have to pay for three!

(The cheaper main meal will be free). This great offer will be available from Tuesday to Saturday night.

(Does not include themed or special promotional menus)

As part of our credit munch deal we will also be offering every Wednesday night, our renowned deep fried fish in beer batter with chunky chips and pea puree for just £12.00 for two people THE KINGS HEAD, APETHORPE. TEL: 01780 470627

VIVA RIVA! There’s nowhere else like it in Peterborough. Riva has it sewn up when it comes to Italian riverside dining. The full glass surround gives you fabulous views of the Town Bridge and the swans on the river - just gorgeous - and even better on a warm day when you can dine Al Fresco.

Riva is now under new ownership with Peterborough guy Chris Falco at the helm. He previously ran the Fratelli restaurant in Bourne so he knows his stuff. The management may have changed but the food is still great. If you tried Riva before and liked it, you can rest assured it’s worth a return visit and Chris hopes you’ll notice his improvements.

Riva chefs are happy to personalise dishes – they can add or take away, anything’s possible. Just the attitude you want from a decent restaurant.

Chris aims to offer a genuine vibe with no pretence just traditional good old fashioned qualities and a simplified style, as Chris says - “You can’t over complicate Italian food.”

food@espmag.co.uk

LOCALFOOD

Riva truly does offer easy dining in the city centre for lunch or business. Bright, airy and relaxing by day, at night it transforms into a full blown Italian restaurant where you’ll quite often find yourself sat next to some of the cast from that week’s show at The Key!

RIVA, The Embankment, Peterborough.

TEL: 01733 894952

Chris has been determined to bring in a fresh open minded approach to the way we eat – sometimes it may take a little longer but it’s all freshly made on the day and the food we sampled was fantastic.

There are daily specials and of course being situated within the Key Theatre complex they also cater for theatre goers with a pre-theatre menu - you can even have the dessert and coffee after the show.

Pizza prices range for £6.95 through to £9.95 for the Riva Special – tomato, mozzarella, peppers, red onion, mushrooms, Italian sausage and provelone cheese.

Meat dishes include chicken, veal, rib eye steak and duck breast.

FOOD REVIEW

THE BLUE BELL The Green, Glinton Tel: 01733 252285 Our Face of ESP Claire Smith joined us for some dinner at The Blue Bell pub in Glinton and found it’s pub grub with a difference.

Claire said - “I haven't been to The Blue Bell for ages, so it was a nice surprise to be invited for a three course dinner! The pub is just as I remembered cosy, full of charm with really friendly, accommodating staff.

“Being a vegetarian and being allergic to certain foods, it’s hard to find tasty food so I was delighted to see such varied options on the menu and the willingness to whip something else up if nothing suited. Each plate was tasty, hearty food and the service was quick. I would definitely recommend a visit to The Blue Bell, even just for a quick pint.”

For starters we tried meatballs (£3.25), parsnip soup (£2.95) and drunken mushrooms (£3.25). For mains, chicken breast stuffed with goats cheese and mushrooms (£7.95), BBQ ribs and a vegetarian Melanzane, pan fried aubergine in tomato sauce with parmesan (available on the two for £10 deal). Claire was impressed with the Melanzane which she thought was better than she’d had in most Italian restaurants!

We ended the night with raspberry brulée, profiteroles and autumn pudding before waddling back to the car very satisfied and filled to the brim!

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THEME NIGHTS AND MEAL DEALS @ THE KINGS HEAD It’s great to see local restaurants being inventive and we have to say The King’s Head in Apethorpe has some cracking ideas to attract diners during the credit crunch.

Firstly they’ve come up with their great ‘Credit Munch’ deal from May 1 where four eat for the price of three if you pre-book a table – can’t be bad! And the food’s gorgeous. The cheaper main meal will be free and the offer runs from Tuesday to Saturday night, (except for themed or special promotional menus).

Then every Wednesday night, their renowned deep fried fish in beer batter with chunky chips and pea puree is available for just £12 for two people.

Their popular theme nights are back full throttle this month with a Tapas night on Friday May 1 with a fantastic selection of traditional finger foods from Spain complete with live Spanish guitar music.

Friday May 15 you can enjoy some great food and drink and enjoy their resident jazz band The Peterborough Hot Four Dixieland Jazz Band.

Tuesday May 19 is their ever popular curry night (so popular you had better book!) with a wide selection of different home made authentic curries for just £10 per person.

Bank holiday Friday May 29 start the weekend with a bang(er) with a celebration of the good old sausage. They’ll be offering a wide range of sausage dishes including the traditional, the exotic and the spicy. Any sausage dish will just be £8.50 per person. All sounds good to us…

Bookings: 01780 470627

Express Lunch

Opening Hours Tues Wed – Sat

½ pizza of your choice from the menu served with mixed salad or chips + soft drink or lager / 125ml House wine

Sunday

5.30pm – Late 12pm – 2pm & 5.30pm – Late 12pm – 5pm

Please book to avoid disappointment

only £8.95 Monday – Friday 12 – 2.30pm For May 09 only

36 Cowgate, Peterborough

Tel 01733 344122 Open Mon - Sat 12 – 2.30pm 5.30pm – till late. Sun 5.30pm – till late

Embankment Road, Peterborough

Tel 01733 894952

Authentic Italian Cuisine freshly prepared on site. Parties catered for.

• • • •

Dry Cleaning, repairs and alterations to the highest standards Member of The Guild of Cleaners & Launderers Over 40 years of combined experience Open Mon – Fri 8.30am to 6pm, Sat 9am to 3pm

‘A dining experience with a difference’ • Lunchtime Tuesday to Friday – 12pm to 2pm (2 course option) • Evening Dinner Tuesday to Saturday - 7.00pm to 10.30pm 3 courses includes coffee & mints £24.95 • 3 course Sunday lunch, includes coffee + mints £18.50 Bookings essential

43 Broadway, Peterborough, PE1 1SQ (next to Bombay Brasserie)

The Cherry House Restaurant

TEL: 01733 566777

125 Church Street,Werrington, Peterborough 01733 571721

NEW VENUE GETS ‘ROYLE’ SEAL OF APPROVAL! There was a celebrity return to Broadway recently as Royle Family actor Ralf Little officially launched Peterborough’s fantastic new Media Centre.

It’s certainly a big improvement on the old centre at Hightrees and its location should make the variety of courses more popular and accessible.

Liz Knight, curriculum director of arts and sciences at the College said she hoped the centre would produce the next generation of Kate Adies and Chris Moyles. Liz told ESP - “If we’re going to be educating and training students to meet the needs of journalism and media technologies, they need to be able to use these. We want them to engage with industry practitioners, but also, make them accessible to more community groups.”

Students at the opening of Peterborough Regional College’s Media and Journalism Centre rolled out the red carpet for Ralf Little and dozens of special guests eager to see behind the scenes of this fantastic new facility in the city.

ESP has always been keen to give people a break so of course we were keen to take a sneaky peek at where future media students will be learning their trade. We certainly weren’t disappointed – what a set up! Brand spanking new this £750k development includes a new digital television studio, video and audio editing suites, three industry standard radio studios and extensive still photography facilities.

All were put to use by students on the night who interviewed Ralf Little in every form! He was a

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great sport and was genuinely keen to help them get the best out of their time with him.

The new centre brings together the College’s media and journalism facilities in one easy accessible site and we reckon it’s really something to be proud of. Maybe you’ll see a few talented students appearing in the pages of ESP in future!

TV actor Ralf Little, best known as Antony in ‘The Royle Family’ and also ‘Two Pints of Lager and a Packet of Crisps’ is a keen supporter of further education for the arts and really put himself out for the media students.

"I've had a good chance to have a look around today,” he told ESP “and the state of the art technology is really impressive, as good as I've seen elsewhere. I think one of the most important things is that it will help prepare people for a career after they've studied here. I hope now the centre's up and running that it's successful and long lasting."

For details about courses at the centre call 0845 8728722 or visit www.peterborough.ac.uk.

shirley.frost@espmag.co.uk

THE HYBRID IS HERE

WE GET AN INSIGHT INTO THE NEW HONDA

We were invited along to Marshall Honda in Peterborough to take a sneaky peek at the Insight, the brand new Honda hybrid.

This car’s been in development for over 20 years with the original Insight making its debut back in 1999.

IMA stands for Integrated Motor Assist, which means that an electric motor sits alongside the petrol engine it supports.

So how does it work exactly? Well imagine that you’re cycling as a pair on a tandem, to start off you both need to work together but once you’ve got up to speed the person on the back could maybe stop for a while leaving the front to work, then when you get to a hill both would start to pedal again. This is very similar to how a hybrid works - when the petrol engine is working the battery engine gets charged up.

hands free phone system, cruise control and air con. The main one though, is a fantastic scoring function which visually displays leaves growing on a tree (the more environmentally sound your driving, the more leaves you’ll grow!). This is designed to encourage you to drive more efficiently saving the environment, and money. Grow your very own trees on the dashboard display and prove you’ve driven with care.

Apart from its fuel efficiency (64.2mpg) you’ll also be saving money with a tasty £15 (yes you read it right) tax disc and driver Benefits in Kind (BIK) tax banding of just 10%.

To check this out for yourself, nip in to see Phil and his team at Marshall Honda in Peterborough and take one for a drive, see how many trees you can grow - I got to four!

Interior wise it’s roomy and there are buttons and lights on the dashboard that any Mr Gadget would be proud of as well as Voice Recognition DVD Sat Nav,

Marshall Honda 01733 213033 for a brochure or visit: www.honda.co.uk/insight Shirley Frost

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PERFECT TEN We have our very own British Champion racing driver in our midst and a worthy contender in our Perfect Ten series. He’s not Lewis Hamilton… but is mates with him. Sharon McAllister asks James Gornall to step up to the grid…

James Gornall, ‘Jiggy’ to his mates, won the British GT Championships last year but for now his greatest challenge is finding the funding to support the next stage of his racing career. Most of his backers over the years have been banks and we know what state they’re in at the moment! The race is literally on to find enough support to be ready for the start of the season this month and James readily admits it’ll be so close he may even miss the start.

“As I’ve just won the British GT Championship you’d think I’d be sorted but most of my backers are banks who are struggling so we’re more or less starting from scratch. We’re looking at some international motor sport, European sports car championships or the Porsche super cup, just looking for opportunities and funding – it’s very nerve wracking.”

James has been racing since he was kid, starting out at the old Phoenix Karting track in Bretton and has been a mate of Lewis Hamilton over the years who he met at tracks around the country.

James Gornall RACING CAR DRIVER

“Lewis is a very nice chap; we grew up together at the race track,” he tells me. “He used to come round for New Year and we used to have parties. Hopefully he’ll continue to do very well and he’ll be making lots of money while he does it!”

So no doubt our Werrington based hero is cheering his old mate on during the Grand Prix - “I am following Lewis, yes, I don’t think he’s going to win again which will be unfortunate but he should do OK and McLaren will get quicker.

“It’s great that Jenson’s finally got a good car and the British teams and drivers always have good history so I hope they’ll keep up there and we’ll have another British champion.”

So does James have any aspirations to join Formula One, I wonder.

“As much as Formula One is fantastic, that ship has sailed,” he says, “I’m probably too old now at 24, which sounds crazy I know, but it’s very expensive to get there and we didn’t have the funding.

“I’m looking to become a professional sports car driver or touring car driver and race on an international stage, getting paid, nowhere near Formula One levels, but you can make a very good living doing what you enjoy and have a bit of spare time during the week too.”

As James is a professional driver coach he gets to drive lots of different cars which gives him a bit of an advantage and he’ll race anything. He admits to being

James in the drivers seat of his Dodge Viper

Photo: Russell Harper

… SUCCESS STORIES

competitive “since birth” racing everything from push bikes to seeing who could climb a lamp post the fastest but once he got into a kart that was it.

“Ever since I started it’s something I liked, it’s not just the speed it’s everything. You have to be a perfectionist to do it properly and get it right and if you want to win you do have to look at every little detail so I like the whole aspect. Some people aren’t keen on overtaking but I love starting at the back of the grid so I get the chance to overtake everybody - I think it’s fantastic.”

Surely being a racer driver has been a gift with the girls but he says his chat up lines were always terrible before he met his girlfriend. “I’ve never used ‘Hi I’m a racing driver’, but my friends have said ‘Hi my friend’s a racing driver!’”

What might work with the girls must work the other way with competitive lads sizing him up at the lights, so I wonder if he’s been tempted into a little ‘Fast & Furious’ style action at the crossroads.

“My friends know I drive steadily… never speed…” (he says with a wry smile) “but my friends probably drive faster than I do because I know what can happen. I’ve got an outlet, I go racing and get to drive these cars so I don’t need to try hard on the road and will just laugh at anyone who does – after all it can be quite dangerous and you never know what’s around the corner.”

It’s a very expensive sport to get involved with and costs thousands and thousands depending how far you go, but also requires amazing dedication. It seems there’s not much time to just hang loose and be an ordinary 24 year-old.

“You have to be quite good at your time management,” says James. “I spend two or three hours in the gym most days at least three days a week sometimes every day. You have to stay very fit; I don’t really drink alcohol just because it’s counter productive.”

While he’s driving cars like the Dodge Viper on the track, I trust he’s had a few car cringes like the rest of us… “I really enjoyed my first car which was a Ford Orion Ghia so maybe the Mondeo after that was worst… Oh no, no… the Peugeot 405 that I had briefly at university, that was the worst. It was diesel, it leaked, it was horrible!”

Any cuddly dice to adorn the little beauty?

“No. Never will and if anyone puts them in I’ll burn them!”

Now you know what not to buy him! Let’s hope this local champion is back on the track pretty soon and not just having to watch his mate on the TV. www.jamesgornall.com

... Next month we catch up with another local success story.

gavin.miller@espmag.co.uk

SCREENSCENE

MOVIE REVIEW

X-MEN ORIGINS: WOLVERINE

Released: April 29 Cast: Hugh Jackman, Ryan Reynolds, Liev Schreiber, Director: Gavin Hood I ABSOLUTELY hate piracy, so after a near-finished version was leaked onto the ‘net four weeks before release – I really hope it doesn’t hinder the boxoffice take of X-Men’s hottest property.

Why cheapskates would even consider watching a pirated download – minus special effects and proper surround sound – just to save a few quid leaves me seething, so I just hope ‘Wolverine’ will now live up to his reputation.

I’m actually more excited about seeing new

characters Gambit, Silver Fox, and particularly Ryan Reynolds’ take on Deadpool, than the actual story itself (maybe because the star has already been in three movies), which sees Logan seek revenge on Victor Creed/Sabertooth after the death of his girlfriend – then end up in William Stryker’s Weapon X programme which was touched upon in X2.

Early tracking suggests ‘Wolverine’ will still successfully claw a chunk out of the box-office despite piracy rearing its ugly head . . .

STAR TREK

Released: May 8 Cast: Chris Pine, Zachary Quinto, Eric Bana, Director: JJ Abrams EARLY screenings suggest JJ Abrams, the man behind Lost, Alias and director of M:I-3, has hit the jackpot with the relaunch of sci-fi’s most-beloved franchise.

Leonard Nimoy (who makes a cameo appearance in the film as the legendary Spock) interrupted a special screening of ‘Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan’

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in Sydney to surprise a group of ‘Trekkies’ with the first screening of the movie – leading to a six-minute standing ovation after the film’s closing credits.

Reviews of generally a ‘four-star’ nature have followed, indicating Abrams’ origin story of a young Captain Kirk (Chris Pine), Spock (Heroes’ Zachary Quinto), Scotty (Simon Pegg) and co has reignited

a new era – with Hulk’s Eric Bana on villain duties as a rogue Romulan.

Whether it will boldly get the cash-tills ringing – and better the aforementioned ‘Khan’ – remains to be seen . .

Game On THE GODFATHER II

ANGELS & DEMONS

Released: May 14 Cast: Tom Hanks, Ewan McGregor, Stellan Skarsgard, Director: Ron Howard

(X360/PS3/PC) Out Now IT’S arguably one of the greatest movie sequels of all-time – but you’d really have to be a mafia die-hard (excuse the pun) to get the most out of this.

This film tie-in is hampered by the massive task of living up to the source material – as you play as fictional character Dominic within actual events which take place in the acclaimed flick – but unfortunately pales to the inevitable ‘GTA IV’ comparisons.

WWE: LEGENDS OF WRESTLEMANIA (X360/PS3) Out Now RELIVE. Rewrite. Redefine. Three words that are used to entice fans – young and old – for a slice of wrestling nostalgia.

With more than forty wrestlers (and managers) from WWF’s past (or WWE as it’s now known) varying from the instantly recognisable Hulk Hogan and Ultimate Warrior, to lesser-known

AFRO SAMURAI (PS3/X360) Out Now IF there was a prize for one of the most infuriating beat ‘em-ups of the year this would grab top spot.

Expect religious naysayers to put the boot in – against both Dan Brown’s novel and the movie – after its release, but hopefully this sequel will receive better critical-acclaim than the disappointing first flick . . .

###

oldies like Koko B Ware and Greg Valentine – this game pays homage to the legacy which is Wrestlemania, now 25 years-old.

The more simplified controls (featuring a ‘chain’ button control system) makes it easy for a complete novice to pick-up, but the lack of an extensive move set for each wrestler will leave die-hard ‘SvR ’09’ fans slightly disappointed.

But as a presentable stand-alone ‘one-off’ special title, it’s still extremely gratifying to pull off the infamous ‘Perfect-Plex’ or Jake ‘The Snake’s’ DDT.

###

But severe tedium in the form of a dodgy camera, platforming sections and boss battles sadly undoes all the potential.

With excellent voice work from Samuel L Jackson, RZA-accompanying soundtrack and a distinctive style, it’s still worth a look if you’re the persistent type.

###

50 CENT: BLOOD ON THE SAND

adventure sees ‘Fiddy’ and his G-Unit pals tearing up Far East locales – with nods to multiple shoot ‘em-ups, most notably the ‘Gears of War’ ‘cover’ system.

Out Now

Brit star Ewan McGregor provides the main support as a Catholic priest, with Hanks reprising his role as Harvard symbolist expert Robert Langdon – this time doubling up murder-solving duties with Vatican terrorism prevention.

But as you’d expect from EA, the overall production values are still high, and for that alone it does just about enough if you’ve ever dreamed of emulating a mobster.

This game based on the hit anime ‘Afro Samurai’ hints at excellence with gorgeous graphics and gory ‘slice ‘n’ dice’ action.

(PS3/X360) OSCAR winners Hanks and Howard reteam for the not-so-eagerly-awaited sequel to 2007’s distinctly mediocre ‘The Da Vinci Code’.

There are still plenty of plus points for mobster fans to appreciate - a solid storyline, great voice acting, decent cut-scenes and noteworthy hand-to-hand combat – but a limited playing area, lack of mission variety and in-game glitches gives it a rushed, unfinished feel.

THE award for gaming surprise of the month goes to this 50 Cent-licensed third-person shooter.

Despite its linear approach and short running time, there’s enough variety (complete with a pumping soundtrack) and ultimately great fun to be had trying to “get rich, or die trying.”

###

This blood-fuelled and expletive-laden

SAMURAI SHODOWN ANTHOLOGY (PSP/WII/PS2) Out Now FOLLOWING on from last month’s SNK compilation reviews – this is the third helping of Neo Geo-originated throwbacks.

Much like the ‘King of Fighters Collection’, the presentation and generous package of ‘Samurai Shodown’ games (I thru VI) will appeal to fans of the genre.

Unfortunately the PSP version is hampered with slowdown problems – but the methodically-paced 2D fighting still offers a welcome style change.

##

Thanks to Paul Ryan for helping playtest some of this month’s titles.

www.espmag.co.uk ( May )

49

Steve Gonzalez

steve.gonzalez@espmag.co.uk

c

The page that would like to see a new sitcom starring Barcelona footballer Carlos Puyol. They could call it ‘The Puyol Family’

d

Whyment (now in Coronation Street) played my mate Darren and there was a scene in one of the episodes where Craig and Caroline wanted us to have a conversation with each other and said to us 'Look we don't know what teenage boys talk about, so just talk amongst yourselves and we'll see what we get'. So Andy and I just started doing this thing where we started messing about in the kitchen doing impressions of Ali G, characters from The Fast Show and bouncing off each other. It lasted about four minutes and we thought they might use perhaps 30 seconds of it, but when the show went out they used the whole four minutes intercut with the rest of the episode and I was really proud of that, because we were only 21 or 22 at the time.”

What can people expect to see you in next ?

The Royle Connection Last month you may remember I came up with the idea of Ricky Tomlinson as Jim Royle voicing an advert warning against the perils of breaking wind.

‘When flatulence strikes think my A.R.S.E!’ might not have been everyone’s cup of tea, but the idea seemed to get the ‘royle’ seal of approval when I met up with actor Ralf Little who plays Jim’s screen son Antony in the BBC show.

Ralf was in the city to officially open the new PRC Media and Journalism centre. After he’d cut the ribbon and met college students we had a quick chat.

We last saw you on our screens in a miniepisode of 'The Royle Family' on Comic Relief night. Are there plans to do a new series or another Christmas special?

“When people asked me two or three years ago if it was going to come back I always said no, but since then there's been two specials and the Comic Relief one, so I think there's more of a possibility that it will. Craig (Cash) and Caroline (Aherne) who write the show are enjoying working together again, so I wouldn't rule it out. Everyone loves doing the show, and whilst I can't say for definite it'll be back, what I can say is if they ask me then I'm there.”

You must have some great memories from working on the show. Do you have a favourite episode?

“The two that stick in my mind are 'The Queen of Sheba' and in the earlier series the one where my character decides he's going to manage a band called 'Exit' because that way their name will be up in lights everywhere they play.

“Something else that stands out is when Andy

FAWLTY TOWERS RE-OPENS Good news for fans of classic comedy sitcom ‘Fawlty Towers’. UK TV Gold have made two separate two-hour retrospectives that John Cleese is hosting. ‘Fawlty Towers Re-opens’ which promises unseen footage as well as

50

www.espmag.co.uk ( May )

“I did a film last year called 'Tristar' with Kevin Spacey and James Corden which is just waiting to be given a release date. It's about a British record producer called Joe Meek, and I play Chas out of Chas & Dave. When I got the part I rang and arranged to meet him in a restaurant in London so I could find out a bit more about him, try to get the accent right that kind of thing. He gave me the address and when I turned up it was this pie and mash shop in the East End. So I had pie, mash and jellied eels with Chas from Chas & Dave and it was just the ultimate cockney experience... I half expected Dick Van Dyke to dance through the front door at any moment.”

Away from acting, you're also a regular face in a lot of celebrity football matches. What's the best game you've played in?

“I've been lucky enough to play at the old and new Wembley, but probably the best match, and as a Man United supporter it pains me to say this, but playing at Newcastle's St James' Park was an experience I'll never forget. We played there three times for Sky's 'The Match' against a team of ex professionals, but the first one was unforgettable because we played so well, narrowly lost and I got the ‘Man of the Match’ award. I know it sounds sad but it was probably the proudest moment of my life.

When you're a kid you dream of being a professional footballer and playing in a game like that is probably the next best thing.”

(For more details of Ralf’s appearance at the PRC media centre, turn to page 42)

interviews with the cast, including Andrew Sachs and Prunella Scales, fans such as Michael Palin, Eddie Izzard and Sir Trevor MacDonald and the owners of the Gleneagles Hotel, the inspiration for the series. Meanwhile the second show will be a collection of Cleese’s favourite clips: ‘Fawlty Towers Exclusive: Basil's Best Bits’. The new shows will air on May 10 and 17 at 9pm.

REMEMBERING ERIC MORECAMBE Finally, this month is 25 years since Eric Morecambe passed away. I'd always thought he died at quite an old age, but after looking into it I was surprised to find out he was only 58, exactly the same age that Gordon Brown is now. If Eric was still with us today he'd be 83 which is only two years older than Bruce Forsyth.

Enjoy the exquisite fresh flavours from Thailand, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, Vietnam and Korea.... on the River Nene's largest boat!

Who knows what further works of comedy he'd have been involved in, with or without Ernie (who sadly passed away in 1999) but the work Morecambe & Wise produced together has stood the test of time and is still making us laugh all these years later.

But it wasn't always the case. When they first appeared together on TV in 1954 their show 'Running Wild' received a critical mauling, with one TV reviewer declaring ‘Definition of the week. TV set: the box in which they buried Morecambe & Wise’.

The savage remark was never forgotten by Eric who would carry the clipping around in his wallet for nearly 30 years as a reminder. When the obituaries were written on his death in 1984, one of the most poignant came from Nancy BanksSmith in The Guardian who, referring to the stinging review years earlier, wrote – ‘A TV set is not a bad box to be buried in when you have been the best on the box’.

Peterborough itself also played a supporting role in the Morecambe & Wise story. Ernie's wife Doreen was a Peterborian and they were married in the city in 1953 with Eric as the best man. (Imagine how funny the best man speech must have been at the reception at the Great Northern Hotel). Ernie lived down Thorpe Avenue for over 20 years and in one of their Christmas specials Eric reads from the Queen’s New Year’s honours list and says - "Her most Gracious Majestee is pleased to bestow upon Ernest Wise, short legged comedian, the title of Lord Ern of Peterborough."

STANDOUTSTANDUP Ardal O’Hanlon, best known as Dougal in Father Ted is heading back to the Boro on June 20 so make sure you book early as this gig at the Cresset will definitely be a sell out!

Tel: 01733 265705.

Jan Ravens from ‘Dead Ringers’ didn’t do herself many favours on Strictly Come Dancing but she’s still a great impressionist. Catch her live at the South Holland Centre in Spalding on May 16 (Tickets £13/£12). Tel: 01775 764777.

The regular Comedy Club makes two appearances at the Cresset in Bretton this month. May 1 has Smooth-as-silk South London comic Cole Parker headlining with feature character comedienne Pippa Evans, plus Jongleurs favourite Rudi Lickwood, newcomer Stuart Black, and the hilarious double act Electric Forecast, who will be the comperes for the night.

The second helping is on May 29 with Mike Gunn, Rob & Skatz, Michael Legge plus a guest act yet to be announced. Mike Gunn is a deadpan maestro and Comedy Store stalwart regarded as one of the finest headline acts in the country.

Rob & Skatz are a musical double act who perform ridiculous songs about the seedier side of life in their own ridiculous style. The night’s compered by Michael Legge an upbeat, warm and witty Irishman.

Escape the hustle and take a short walk, come and sample our new

LUNCHTIME Menu Select a main course for £6.95 Add a starter for ONLY £2 Don’t forget our special

£10 Tuesdays Select a starter and main course from our exclusive Tuesday menu and we’ll serve it with jasmine rice and side vegetables for ONLY £10.

For reservation call

01733 315702

Andy Slater’s

andy.slater@espmag.co.uk

The Levellers

It takes a brave man to predict the future especially with so much uncertainty around. Part of me this year was thinking that with the current economic climate as it is, festivals will suffer and some will be cancelled, but, as far as I can tell that’s not the case.

Reading, as always, has sold out, the V Festivals are also looking like they will be in short supply and with Bruce Springsteen and Neil Young playing Glastonbury that was always going to fly.

Maybe with the great British pound being quite worthless over in Europe, would-be holiday makers are staying in the UK and treating the kids to a festival experience rather than a poolside screamathon. If so, that can only be good for festival promoters, festival goers and bands. If more people are attending then promoters will have a decent year and it will give them a bit more confidence to do it all again next year. I guess the key will be us Joe Public keeping in work, if we can do that then let the summer party begin! So where to go and what to see?

As we skip along into May, around the May Pole perhaps, more and more festival line-ups have been announced. Having seen one of my all time legendary ‘must see’ people last year, Steve Cropper, I was apoplectic to see who’s playing Cambridge Folk Festival this year. Only Booker T Jones… yep Cropper’s sparring partner from the Stax studio and the Hammond organ maestro on the classic hit, ‘Green Onions’. Booker T also worked with Carla and Rufus Thomas, Otis Redding and Eddie Floyd (who’s playing at the Holiday Inn in Peterborough on Friday May 22.)

52

www.espmag.co.uk ( May )

Quite how Booker T fits into the Folk genre I’m not sure but hey, who cares? Also on the lineup are Los Lobos and The Zutons, again not really Folk but it shows that the Cambridge crew push the boundaries to ensure a great festival which runs over the long weekend of July 30 – August 2. More info can be found at www.Cambridgefolkfestival.co.uk.

The Zutons

Liverpool pop tarts The Zutons are also playing another festival on my list, Summer Sundae at De Montfort Hall, Leicester over the Weekend of August 14 - 16.

We went to DMH festivals twice last year and they were great. Again, a maximum of 6,000 people, well organised with spotless facilities and great line-ups.

If it’s clean loos and showers you’re after and friendly stewards, this festy could be for you.

The line-up is great too, The Streets, The Charlatans, The Zutons, Saint Etienne and The Noisettes to name but a few!

What I liked about DMH last year was the fact that it was such a laid back place to be, we were at their Blues Festival and Big Session last year and even though you’re in the middle of the city you get the feeling you’re miles from anywhere. So for this one check out www.summersundae.com.

The other one well worth a ride over to Leicester for is the previously mentioned Big Session. It’s like the accousticy Folky little brother of Summer Sundae but again, a brilliant little festival. This year the line-up is one to really get your feet moving with The Oysterband and The Levellers headlining and with a bit of political savvy from Billy Bragg you know you won’t get any further away from ‘chavdom’ than this!

Also on the bill is this year’s serial festival performer Adrian Edmonson and The Bad Shepherds. Yep the one time ‘Young One’ has booked a few festivals including this one and Cambridge . That may explain why he was schmoozing back stage in the VIP bar last year with us lesser mortals, blagging a gig no doubt!

Anyway back to Big Session, it’s only £60 for the weekend check out www.bigsessionfestival.co.uk all the info you will ever need is there.

So there you are, a few to wet your whistle.

Cambridge goes on sale May 17, beware, it is a bit of a Glastonbury experience trying to get a ticket. Don’t leave it too late, they go real quick!

Andy Slater

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LIVEMUSIC LITE FM – BAND OF THE WEEK Back by popular demand is Lite FM’s Saturday lunchtime Band of the Week feature with Keith and Claire but this time with a few changes. Getting a number of bands into the studio to perform live and unplugged has been an exciting and rewarding challenge for the Lite FM crew, and it has worked fantastically. Now they’re inviting some of those bands back.

Lite FM presenter Keith Dalton told me – "When we started the feature we knew what we wanted, and that was to create a relaxed atmosphere in which local bands could show their talents by performing live on their local radio station. Most of the time it was without their normal musical instruments and equipment, and was therefore very much outside their comfort zone.”

Keith’s on air partner Claire Tod added - “A lot of the bands were nervous before their appearance but everyone performed brilliantly and after the gig they left us full of enthusiasm. Most said they would love to do it all over again so this time we aim to make it even more of a challenge.”

The shows looks pretty booked until the end of July, but if you’re interested in performing, get in touch with the show through their website. To give you a taster of what’s happening in May, Circa 73 will play on Saturday May 2; Burlesque on Saturday May 9; Halcyon Daze on Saturday May 16; Frankly My Dear on Saturday May 23 and The Returns on Saturday May 30. Performances are from 12.30pm on 106.8FM. www.lite1068.com

OPEN MIC @ THE MILLSTONE The Millstone pub at Ryhall, just outside Stamford, is hoping to organize a series of open mic nights starting on Sunday May 10 to cover all acts from bands to comedy and performance poetry. Each performer will be given a 15 minute slot. The PA, drum kit and basic back-line will all be provided. So if you fancy putting on a performance at this beautiful, family friendly pub, then get in touch with Matt Ireland on 07917 106 472 to book a slot; or just turn up on the night.

54

www.espmag.co.uk ( May )

A STORY TO TELL These guys really have got a story to tell. From music obscurity, this youthful Spalding based band have been kicking up quite a storm over the last year or so and have already gained over 10,000 fans on MySpace.

Their new EP ‘While We’re Young’ is about to be released and they’re hitting the road over the summer to promote it, including a date at The Cavern in Liverpool as part of a ten date tour. If you want to see the boys locally, get to The Met Lounge, Bridge Street, Peterborough on Sunday May 17 or Sunday June 7. Samples of their music are available online.

enough of Lance’s Elvis, Roy Orbison and Buddy Holly impressions. Now armed with his own PA and a teddyboy alter-ego called Lancelot, this budding rock star wants to get out there performing 50’s and 60’s rock n roll classics at a pub near you! If you’ve got a pub or venue and can offer Lance a gig, please give him a call on 07885 302201.

www.myspace.com/astorytotellmusic

www.mamaliz.co.uk

LANCE IS GROWING OLD DISCRACEFULLY Forget Susan Boyle from Britain’s Got Talent, Peterborough has its own fair share of the unexpected. Take 67 year-old Lance Bloom, who while on holiday in Benidorm, discovered he had a voice when trying Karaoke for the first time. According to reports, the roof lifted and the place couldn’t get

While rock n roll was the music of choice for teenage rebels in the 1950’s, it is great to see how this style of music still has the same effect on the youth of today. Now I may be a little biased as they recently played at my birthday bash, but I was nevertheless gob-smacked to see how The Cats managed to get a room full of seven to 70 year-olds up and dancing like there was no tomorrow. If you want a ‘seat of your pants’ rock n roll party with a dose of blues and modern classics thrown in for good measure, then you can get to see The One Eyed Cats at The Bell on Bridge Street, Deeping St James on Friday May 15 at 9.30pm. www.oneyedcats.com

GOING TOPLESS AT MAMA LIZ’S As we’ve all become accustomed to, Mama Liz’s continues to put on a great series of events every month, including music, arts, comedy and performance poetry… as well as good food and drink. But as live music columnist, it’s the music I’ve gotta report on, so I’m delighted that Angryman and Irene Rae will be performing on the same bill on Friday May 1 at this great venue.

Intrigue strikes, however, as we’ve been promised that one of these performers will go topless during their performance! Other music events of note during the month are the Boomerang Returns session on Saturday May 2, featuring Andy Whittle and Elephant Talk. The Deaf

By Stereo crew are bringing The Guidean Gang, The Throwaways and Strawbear to Stamford on Saturday May 23. And last, but not least, on Friday May 29, the Dana Wylie Band will be strutting their stuff.

GIG REVIEW – THE GLORIOUS ONE EYED CATS

ALBUM LAUNCH PARTY – BREAK THE CIRCLE It’s been three years in the making, but Peterborough band Opaque have at last finished recording the longawaited new album ‘Break The Circle’, which will be released as a deluxe twodisc special edition on Friday May 15 at The Glass Onion, Burghley Road, Peterborough.

Enquiring about the title of the album, lead singer Moony said - “It’s a general ethos about breaking bad habits or any destructive cycles in your life, from bad relationships to drug habits. It’s more than just that though, it’s in recognition of the many cycles and circles that surround us all the time, from the planets to the seasons.” Spoken like a true hippy!

‘Break The Circle’ marks a departure from catchy pop and takes a fork in the road that leads to a little extra meat on their symphonic bones. It’s a natural development for Opaque’s sound; one that is still unmistakably Opaque but signals a more introspective, multi-layered approach to song crafting. As the band embark on a grand album launch tour, look out for one or two local gigs over the summer festival season. www.bandopaque.com

FESTIVALS FESTIVALS FESTIVALS With only a few weeks to go until the start of summer and the long awaited festival season, the team at the Randall Rootz Festival have announced dates of Friday 14, Saturday 15 and Sunday 16 August for its third annual extravaganza. I’ve been promised details of venues and all the acts for next month and am looking forward to reporting another stunning line-up.

Staying local, The Bourne Music & Beer Festival runs on Friday 5, Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 June and looks to be another cracker! Boasting arts and crafts stalls, great beer and a stunning music line-up, there’ll also be an amazing Battle of Britain Memorial Flight overhead on the Saturday and Sunday (weather permitting).

Regardless of the weather though, the music is always what makes this festival; and with nearly 20 different bands/artistes, including headline performances by White Spirit (Friday), Noasis (Saturday) and The League of Mentalmen (Sunday), it promises to be a great family-friendly event. For more information and full line-up, check out the website. www.bournefestival.com

May 2009

• Food served daily, Mon – Sat 12pm-2pm and 6pm-9pm. Sun 12 – 5.30pm • Every Tuesday - karaoke 9pm • Every Wednesday

- Quiz Night 9.30pm

• Function room available for privite parties • Local ales from £2 per pint

1st 2nd 8th 9th 15th 16th 22nd 23rd 24th 29th 30th

Black Rose Porky Pig Alladinsane No-mans Band The System Retrolux Pandora’s Box Leon Gizz Butt & Crew Mighty Quinn Riff Raff

9 Oundle Road, Fletton, Peterborough 01733 703495 FAX 01733 757563

• • • • • •

Thursday £1 night - Sunday £1 day Live entertainment every Friday + Saturday Lunchtime menu available for light meals Outside patio and covered smoking area Function room for hire Wednesday night - Open Mic night

5 Scotgate, Stamford. Tel: 07792 864982

All bands subject to change

RIVERSIDE DINING - BLUES, BREWS AND FINE VIEWS

Beer 40+ Real Ales Festival MAY BANK HOLIDAY

FRIDAY 1ST MAY – MONDAY 4TH MAY Fri May 1st The John O’Leary Band Sat May 2nd Howard Smith and the Razors Sat May 9th The Gregg Wright Band Fri May 29th The Carvin Jones Band

• Sky Sports and Setanta • Home cooked food every day • Value meals from £3.99 • Children’s menu • Sunday lunch 12 -6pm • Real ales and regular entertainment Napier Place, Orton Wistow. Tel: 01733 230 375

THE BLUE BOAR EYE

• Relax by the river in the largest beer garden in the City Centre • Traditional ciders • Extensive range of Belgian / Continental Beers, Whisky and Wine • BBQ - weather permitting

Town Bridge, Peterborough

01733 315700 www.oakhamales.com

MAY SPECIAL 2 for 1 on all meals • Home cooked food every day • Value meals from £3.99 • Children’s menu • Sunday lunch 12 -6pm • Real ales, Sky Sports and Setanta • Mondays draught beers £2.50, spirits, shots and alcopops £1 High St, Eye. Tel: 01733 222234

gigs@espmag.co.uk

GIGGUIDE THU APR 30 OPEN MIKE NIGHT Cherry Tree Oundle Road

ANDY WHITTLE + SUPPORT Mama Liz's Voodoo Lounge Stamford

THE DAVISON WOODS INTERPRETERS + BAND KUNK + ICONS OF Cherry Tree Oundle Road THE BRAVE + PAUL SAXBY FRIXTION The Solstice Northminster

FRI MAY 1 BLACK ROSE

Ebeneezers Woodston

Town Bridge

CREEPSHOW

The Prince of Wales Castor

CUTHBERT, DIBBLE & GRUB

MOONLIGHT SHADOWS

The Swiss Cottage Woodston

HOOKER

OAK

O'Neill's Broadway

The Danish Invader Stamford

IRENE RAE + ANGRYMAN

PORKY PIG

JOHN O'LEARY BAND Charters Town Bridge

OPEN MIC WITH RICHARD AND PAUL The Cellar Bar, Thorpe Lodge Hotel Thorpe Road

RETURNS Limetree Walton

Halcyon Westwood

WHITE SPIRIT The Cock Inn Werrington

SUN MAY 3 FILTHY LUCRE + RETROLUX

PARK LANE

LEON

The Park Park Road

The Whittle Way Stanground

OPEN MIC NIGHT

RETROLUX

PORKY PIG

LES WOODS BAND

The Millstone Ryhall

Cherry Tree Oundle Road

The Lime Tree Paston

FRI MAY 15

SUN MAY 17

The Hit or Miss Stamford

Thorpe Road

Cellar Bar Thorpe Lodge Thorpe Road

THE OVERDUBS The Fayre Spot Bretton

ULTIMATE MADNESS Limetree Walton

CITIZEN SMITH CRASH AND BURN The Peacock Fletton

GIZZ BUTT BLUES

KNOCKER Halcyon Westwood

LIVE MUSIC

LEON

The Park Park Road

The Three Horseshoes Werrington

NO MAN'S BAND The Cherry Tree Oundle Road

THE OAK + OUTA-STOCK FAMILY The Nags Head THE CONTRAST + COLLECTIVE + Eastrea THE HOUNDOGS PET SLIMMERS + THE OVERDUBS PORKY PIG OF THE YEAR + The Stage PUNKY REBEL Marquis of Granby Market Deeping MEDIA Bourne Radius THE OVERDUBS Northminster TBC The Deeping Stage Market Deeping

SAT MAY 2

Ebeneezers Woodston

MON MAY 4

THE GREGG WHITE BAND

RETROLUX

Charters Town Bridge

The Crown Elton

The Cellar Bar, Thorpe Bridge Street Lodge Hotel Thorpe Road

THU MAY 21

FRONT COVER The Blue Bell Dogsthorpe

HALCYON DAZE The Pear Tree Stamford

LEE MAJOR The Fayre Spot Bretton

THE MOONLIGHT SHADOWS The Bull Newborough

SONIC BOOM SIX The Park Park Road

THE CHUCK NORRIS EXPERIENCE The Toreador Bar Stamford

RETROLUX Goodbarns Yard St Johns Street

SLIDE TO OPEN Halcyon Westwood

TBC

The Straw Bear Whittlesey

UNLIMITED The Swiss Cottage Woodston

WISHBONE ASH The Park Park Road

SAT MAY 16 BURLESQUE The Bluebell Dogsthorpe

CITIZEN SMITH Limetree Walton

CRASH N BURN Halcyon Westwood

FALLEN ANGELS Blackstones Sports & Social Club Stamford

LEGEND Q @ Southside Sports Bar Bourne

DANA WYLIE BAND Mama Liz's Voodoo Lounge Stamford

The Park Park Road

Cherry Tree Oundle Road

THE GUIDEAN GANG + THE THROWAWAYS + STRAWBEAR

THE CARVIN JONES BAND

Mama Liz's Voodoo Lounge The Cellar Bar, Thorpe Stamford Lodge Hotel Thorpe Road

QUEST

The Swiss Cottage Woodston

The Cellar Bar, Thorpe Lodge Hotel Thorpe Road

DAVID WYATT

EDDIE FLOYD

CUTHBERT, DIBBLE & GRUB

TERROR + BORN FROM PAIN + STICK TO YOUR GUNS

The Bell Deeping St James The Glass Onion Burghley Road

The Fayre Spot Bretton

MICK DAVIDSON AND FRIENDS

FRI MAY 22

OPAQUE

BLUES MANDATE

Ebeneezers Woodston

ONE EYED CATS

The Cellar Bar, Thorpe THE SYSTEM Lodge Hotel Cherry Tree Thorpe Road Oundle Road

The Cherry Tree Oundle Road

The Fayre Spot Bretton

The Park Park Road

BLAZE BAYLEY

Cherry Tree Oundle Road

The Cock Inn Werrington

PUNK ALL DAYER

ALESTORM

FRI MAY 29

Ivy Leaf Club Whittlesey

Ebeneezers Woodston

UNDERCOVER

The Fayre Spot Bretton

The Blue Bell Dogsthorpe

HALCYON DAZE

The Cock Inn Werrington

SUN MAY 10

SAT MAY 9

STONE PONY

101 PROOF

The Park Park Road

NO MAN'S BAND

KRACK'N

The Cherry Tree Oundle Road

The Toreador Bar Stamford

STONE PONY

Cherry Tree Oundle Road

LES WOODS BAND THE CONTRAST

The Three Horseshoes Werrington

Mama Liz's Voodoo Lounge Stamford

ALLADINSANE

YOUR DEMISE + DEEZ NUTZ

RICHARD HALL REEMER + A HOWARD SMITH & BAND CUTHBERT, The Cellar Bar, Thorpe DIBBLE AND ANDY STORY TO TELL THE RAZORS Lodge Hotel The Met Lounge Charters GRUBB

Cherry Tree Oundle Road THE PARK Park Road

FRI MAY 8

SUN MAY 24

MIGHTY QUINN

Charters Town Bridge

SAT MAY 30 GANGSTERS Limetree Walton

Holiday Inn West Thorpe Wood

ARE YOU EXPERIENCED

GROUNDHOGS

The Park Park Road

Halcyon Westwood

CITIZEN SMITH

NOT TO SCALE

The Park Park Road

MONKEY BOY

The Brewery Tap Westgate

The Cock Inn Werrington

The Whittle Way Stanground

GIZZ BUTT & CREW

PHEONIX

PANDORA'S BOX

The Cherry Tree Oundle Road

GRUMPY OLD MEN

Cherry Tree Oundle Road

TUNNEL The Toreador Bar Stamford

SAT MAY 23 ALL DAY MUSIC EVENT

LIVE BAND DAY The Boat Inn Whittlesey

THE REPLICAS + THE BRAYS + RIVERHOUSE + SHAUN PAUL The Stage Market Deeping

The Vine Market Deeping

MON MAY 25

BURLESQUE

THE HOUNDOGS

The Golden Fleece Stamford

Ebeneezers Woodston

RIFF RAFF Cherry Tree Oundle Road

SUN MAY 31 UK SUBS The Park Park Road

The Blue Bell Easton on the Hill

FAT CHANCE The Cock Inn Werrington

GRUMPY OLD MEN The Elm Tree Tavern Dogsthorpe

THU MAY 28 DAN (FROM THE LOUNGE) The Toreador Bar Stamford

If you wanna get your gigs in ESP for free e-mail gigs@espmag.co.uk or fax on 01733 579708 or post to: ESP Magazine, PO Box 431, Peterborough, PE6 7FG.

Cock Inn W E R R I N G T O N

• Mon Night Biker Nite • Food served Mon - Thur 128pm, Fri-Sun 12pm - 4pm • Thurs Nite Steak Nite • Sunday Roast - £6 • SKY Sports

May 2nd White Spirit 9th Citizen Smith 16th No Man’s Band 22nd 60’s night 23rd Fat Chance 30th Not To Scale

Members Club New members welcome

Live Music

Disco every Friday

May

Car boot last Sunday every month

2nd 9th 16th 23rd 30th

Frixtion TBC Park Lane TBC Pheonix

Also

Admission £2 – members free Admission £2 – members free Admission £2 – members free Admission £2 – members free Admission £2 – members free

A selection of fine real ales Darts, dominoes, crib, snooker and pool also available

Grove Street, Peterborough Tel: 01733 567352

1305 Lincoln Road, Werrington, Peterborough

Function room available for party hire (not Saturdays)

clubland@espmag.co.uk

OLD COACH HOUSE DJ COMPETITION

CLUBLAND

The end of last month saw the culmination of weeks of DJing and judging at The Old Coach House in Market Deeping at the final night of the DJ competition. The whole place was packed, with people going mad for these small-time spinners from Peterborough, Nottingham and Boston looking to make the leap into bigger venues, and maybe international fame!

Drum and Bass was the order of the night with only one DJ out of seven opting for Old-Skool. After the first four DJ’s, everything went a little lo-tech, with Locality beatboxer Skillz showing the crowd that you don’t need decks for mad beats.

So, after all seven finalists had finished their sets, who was the favourite? We asked Bar Manager Ady Workman - “it’s got to be DJ Hefty, I loved his set.” Obviously Ady knows more about beer than beats, as DJ Lutz – AKA Ed Billing – impressed the judges in an impossibly close competition.

He scored £250 in cash, studio time at Jigsaw studios, a DJ slot at Bar Bloc, a trophy and the obligatory bottle of champagne.

It was a great night – the crowd loved it, the DJ’s loved it and the entire place was buzzing! We’ll definitely be at next year’s competition and will be dropping into the Old Coach House whenever we’re in Deeping, as there are DJ’s on most weekends. Call 01778 341460.

London and three new live PA’s, it’s bound to be a party of international standards! Entry £5.

MS DYNAMITE EXPLODES @ THE PARK Mercury Award-winning artist Ms. Dynamite comes to The Park on May 30 and will be performing brand new material live on stage.

Ms. Dynamite's debut album, 'A Little Deeper', was a massive success and took her from being an underground garage MC to a household name in under six months and got her the Mercury Music Prize as well as three MOBO's. After taking time off to care for her newborn son, her musical direction changed a little and she released 'Judgement Days,' an album full of powerful protest songs.

Since then, she's mainly been focusing on family life but is back with new material and a new album to be released later in the year.

It's rare that we get a star of this standing appearing in such a small venue in Peterborough.

Don't miss your chance to catch her while you still can! Tickets £7 adv. from 01733 310383 or www.thepark4music.com

DJ SPOONY @ STAMFORD Stamford will be playing host to the legendary DJ Spoony on May 30. The Radio One star will be taking over the decks at Central for a night of the sexiest UK Garage, R’n’B and dancefloor classics.

It’s pretty much guaranteed to sell out, so make sure you hit the club early – there’ll be a warm-up party in Brownes beforehand with cocktails and champagne!

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CENTRAL SCHOOL DISCO Get dressed up in your finest school uniform on May 1 and head to Central in Stamford for the School Disco. This night’s always a laugh and with cheesy tunes, disco dancers and tons of drinks offers, there’s no better way to get the Bank Holiday Weekend started - free entry before 11pm, discounted entry after if you’re in fancy dress. Why not wind the weekend down on Bank Holiday Sunday, May 3 at Central too, with a night full of the smoothest, sexiest R’n’B sounds, both old and new. Entry’s free before 10.30pm.

MASH-UP WITH SEANI-B King of the mash-up Seani B comes to The Park on May 1 for a night of dancehall remixes and the hottest R'n'B, hip-Hop and Bashment. He's got his own show on BBC 1 Xtra every weekend and always gets the party going - with support from Cryer DJ, DJ Skully and Everett Irie, it’s the only way to get the Bank Holiday weekend started.

Entry £5.

URBAN LINK-UP Head to The Park on May 23 for the Hottest Urban Link Up. With urban, Dancehall and Reggae sound systems from the likes of City Rock from Spanish Town, Jamaica, X-Ta-C 4x4 from Birmingham and Park regulars Cryer DJ, DJ Skully and Everett Irie as well as the Government Squad dancers from

one of the funkiest deep house nights around. This night’s been going for years in various venues, so don’t miss your chance to see why it’s remained so popular! Also, every Friday and Saturday night, Eclectic Ballroom take over the decks and will be playing pretty much any genre you could think of.

Entry’s free.

DEEP IN THE VOODOO LOUNGE Mama Liz’s in Stamford will be taking a break from all things Rock and Roll on May 30 for Dig Deep,

BATTLE DJ BLAME If you fancy the chance to DJ at the newest nightclub in town, Club Metro, send a 30 minute sample to elementdjcometition@live.com before May 15 for your chance to enter the DJ Competition, with the finals taking place on June 5. There's no limit to the styles of music you can play - all the judges are looking for is style,

technique and consistency. The winner’s guaranteed at least four slots alongside big name artists booked for later in the year, such as special guest for the night DJ Blame, a producer who's worked with Metalheadz, Hospital and 720 Degrees and is receiving massive support from Radio One's Zane Lowe.

Entry £8. Free taxi shuttle from outside Tesco, Broadway by A2B Eurocars – call 01733 566666.

BREAK DRUM ‘N’ BASS Neuro-Funktion returns to AJ’s Bar, Lincoln Road on May 2 for a night of the deepest Drum ‘n’ Bass in the city with one of the scene’s hottest DJ’s and producers, Break. Apparently, it’s been a bit of a nightmare getting him confirmed, but they’ve pulled it off and have got some great DJ’s to support such as Komplex, Rail, Riot, Roller and Sub-Viscious as well as NeuroFunktion’s very own Mr Bang-e. Pick up a flyer for free entry before midnight, or £4 on the door.

DANCEHALL VS. FUNKY HOUSE Head to The Park on May 2 for The Clash of the Titans - Dancehall Vs. Funky House, hosted by BBC 1 Xtra's Dancehall master Robbo Ranx. It's a one-off event and the first time anything like this has been tried in Peterborough, with Miss Dancehall East Anglia 2008-2009 taking place on the same night it's bound to be one mad party! Entry £6.

SWAY CAUSES SENSATION Urban music fans saw the dawn of a new era for the city last month with the launch of new monthly night, ‘Sensation’ at The Park in conjunction with DJ Firestarr which saw one of the biggest UK Hip-hop stars, Sway, hit the Boro for a special live show.

It was a massive event and marks the beginning of a series of huge live shows from international artists booked at The Park, including Ms Dynamite on May 30 and Pendulum on July 17 as well as DJ sets from the likes of Kiss FM’s Reggae master, David Rodigan on June 13.

DJ Firestarr told ESP – “Over the past few years I've seen and played alongside some of the biggest artists and DJ’s in the UK. It’s great that I’ve now got the right backing to bring some of these great names to Peterborough and raise the profile of the city and The Park venue once again - the home of true urban music!”

For more info visit www.thepark4music.com

DISSIDENT DJ COMPETITION The first round stages are well under way. So far six DJs have made it through to the next round with some best runners up in toe. Club Dissident are still taking entries for the first round. If you think you've got what it takes to win the £200 prize money or perhaps get noticed by a promoter then email dissidentdjcomp@yahoo.co.uk and ask for an entry form, or alternatively pick up an entry form at the bar. The competition's open to all styles and all DJ's running every Thursday from 8.45 - 11pm. Cya there.

FRANTIC FRIDAYZ OFFICIAL LAUNCH PARTY Go Frantic at the launch of this new night at The Park on May 29 and every fourth Friday of the month from then on. Lionheart Promotions bring you a new night of Reggae and Dancehall with a generous splash of funk Houyse, UKG, RnB, Hip Hop, Soul and Crunk. Entry’s a fiver.

Photo: Paul Young

N‘ice’ one lads Let’s hear it for the Peterborough Phantoms ice hockey team who’ve swept the board and done the treble. The Phantoms, sponsored by Cross Keys Homes, won the English Premier League and the English Premier Cup (last time the club achieved the double was in 2003) and then went all the way and won the end of season Play-off tournament.

ESP joined the guys at the after season party in Yaxley with ESP girls Susan and Alannah celebrating with players and fans.

Phantoms spokesman Jon Kynaston told ESP - “It was the perfect season, you can only win all of them and we did! What we achieved this year will not be eclipsed for a very long time.

“Coach Colin Patterson brought the best out of our players as individuals and moulded them into a champion team, he did a very professional job and made a difference to us. It was a true team effort and just rewards for the effort and dedication that has to go into making it happen.”

It was a great party with awards made to the players on the night – notably Nathan Rempel received ‘Player of the Year’ and Dwayne Newman picked up awards for ‘Best Defence’ and tied with Joe Miller for the ‘Most Inspirational Player’ award.

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Photo: Paul Young

ONCE, TWICE, THREE TIMES… A WINNING TEAM!

Sponsors Cross Keys Homes, Mears and Lovell Yours Clothing Capitol Lettors Thomas Cook Fusion Lite FM Dal-Rod Central Security Woodcock Holmes Kinetika Gym Burnt Tree Vehicle Hire Motorpoint Keyprint Coca Cola Enterprises Britannia Foods Red Lion, Bourne M&M Property Management

We love it when a plan comes together – way to go guys, you’ve done Peterborough proud!

Planet Ice

www.peterborough-phantoms.com

Gongshow Gear UK

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ESP Magazine

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LOCALSPORT

May sale - buy one DVD get one FREE

Visit Licence to Thrill for 1000’s of DVDs, adult toys, libo pills and much more Licence to Thrill Unit 7, Park Road, Peterborough (Opposite Westgate Dept. Store) Open Monday To Saturday 10am to 6pm

01733 341555

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.

Photo: Paul Young

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

pub@espmag.co.uk

PUBGUIDE

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Bluebell (DOGSTHORPE)

Street, Glinton Tel: 01733 252285 Bluebell High

• Live music every weekend (check ESP Gig Guide) • Food served Mon-Friday • Sky + Setanta sports • Real Ales • Free pool on Tuesdays • Large family beer garden

• Food served daily 12-2pm, 5.30-9pm except Monday night • Sunday Lunch - 12-7pm, booking advisable • Open all day Fri, Sat, Sun • Fri & Sat food 12-9pm • Fine real ales • Karaoke every last Saturday of the month

St Pauls Road, Dogsthorpe Tel: 01733 554890

• 2 main meals £10, Tuesday - Saturday 5.30-9pm

The Fox

Halcyon

• Family friendly pub with beer garden • Home cooked bar food daily • New Tapas menu available from May onwards • A La Carte restaurant Thurs - Sat • Sunday lunch 12-4.30pm - booking essential • Garden marquee available for functions, weddings etc.

• Petanque terrain • Outside bars and hog roast available

• Food served all day, every day.

• Sunday roast from £5.49 – full children’s menu • Sky and Setanta sports • Live music every Saturday • Karaoke every Friday • Real ales served • Undercover, heated smoking area

The Fox, Folksworth Tel: 01733 240 258

Atherstone Ave, Peterbrough Tel: 01733 263801

Crown Inn

Verve

• Real Ales served in our friendly welcoming bar • Beautiful village setting • Home served cooked food served Tues sat 12-2pm and Thurs –Sat 6pm-8pm • Sunday Lunch 12-6pm £6-95

• Fresh home-cooked food • Brand new refurbishment • Friendly staff and great atmosphere • Karaoke Thu, DJ Fri and Sat • Late license til 5am • Themes nights held once a month • Children welcome during food service • Party bookings also welcome

Main St, Great Casterton, Stamford Tel: 01780 489463

Church Street, Peterborough Tel: 01733 561723

The Whittle Way

Lime Tree

• Live music every Friday (see ESP Gig Guide) • All Sky Sports events on large screen TV • Real Ales • Quiz night every Sunday • Function room available • Beer garden

• Live entertainment - SEE ESP GUIDE • Live Sky sports • Real Ales • Beer gardens front and rear • Two pool tables • Quiz every Sunday night • Function room for hire

Central Square, Stanground Tel: 01733 340304

Paston Lane, Walton Tel: 01733 708320

Thorpe Lodge Hotel

The Roundhead

• Live music very weekend in the Cellar Bar • Ideal for the City Centre • 19 ensuite Guest Rooms • Evening maels served in the restaurant – open to the public • Bar snacks available • Plenty of parking 83 Thorpe Rd, Peterborough Tel: 01733 348759

• Under new management • Karaoke every Friday • Live music every Saturday • Children welcome till 7pm • Happy hour 9.30am -12pm • Meals from £2.99 • Now serving Sunday roasts • FUNCTION ROOM FOR HIRE Rightwell East, Bretton.

Tel: 01733 267340