ESP May 2012

MAY 2012 Issue 153

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What’s On

The Willow Festival Special Movies

The Avengers Assemble reviewed!

Also in this month’s issue:

comedy Fashion Food Health & Beauty 21,000 COPIES AVAILABLE FROM OVER 800 PLACES IN:

Alexandra Burke Feature

STAMFORD

PETERBOROUGH CITY CENTRE, GLINTON, WERRINGTON, GUNTHORPE, EYE, SPALDING, DOGSTHORPE, WALTON, NEW ENGLAND, MILLFIELD, NETHERTON, WESTWOOD, BRETTON, FENGATE, FLETTON, BOONGATE, STANGROUND, YAXLEY, FARCET, WHITTLESEY, STILTON, BOURNE, HAMPTON, FOLKSWORTH, SAWTRY, CASTOR, LONGTHORPE, WOODSTON, ORTON WISTOW, ORTON LONGUEVILLE, WANSFORD, ELTON, OUNDLE, CROWLAND, NEWBOROUGH, SPRINGFIELDS, DEEPING, LANGTOFT, NORTHBOROUGH, ETTON, BARNACK, HELPSTON, TALLINGTON, BOURNE... AND MORE.

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PETERBOROUGH FESTIVAL LAUNCH Not long to go until this year’s Peterborough Arts Festival and to help keep you up to date there’s a new dedicated website all about the festival which will be the place to go for all the latest updates and Festival news.

Make sure you check www.peterboroughfestival.co.uk for news on this year’s line-up. The event runs from June 30 – July 8 and looks set to be packed with some great entertainment including the party in Central Park with free entertainment and music and a great headline act. ESP will also be keeping you up to date with all the latest developments so make sure you keep an eye on www.espmag.co.uk and our facebook and twitter.

NEW CLOTHES SHOP SET TO OPEN IN DEEPING Local chap Jonno will be opening a new clothes shop in Market Deeping this month.

It’ll be called 23seven and will supply well cut, well made clothes for both men and women, and is the ideal place for people who have a passion for clothes! It’ll be a great addition to the small market town and we can’t wait to see it for ourselves!

ENTER THE DRAGON Dragon boat racing is an ancient Chinese tradition and the fastest growing water activity in Britain today – as well as the most fun! Up to 10 people paddle each 30’ boat with a drummer at the front beating time. The Peterborough dragon boat race will be happening on Saturday June 16 this year, no previous experience is required, just plenty of team spirit! Visit www.dragonboatfestivals.co.uk for more details on how to enter now.

ANGEL SPICE CREATES CHEESE CURRY The guys at Angel Spice in Stilton have introduced a new curry which includes the famous blue veined cheese. The curry’s made from spinach and Stilton cheese, and has been described as similar to a saag paneer or saag aloo. Chef Tahir Jaks thought up the idea last year at the Cheese Rolling

competition, and only had the dish available as a special, but he’s recently updated the menu and included this one of a kind dish!

This all comes in time for this year’s Stilton Cheese Rolling on Monday May 7. There’ll be no other restaurants that serve a Stilton paneer that’s for sure! Call 01733 244373 for more details.

ON THE ROAD TO JEM’S DINER Jem’s Diner is situated just off the A605 near Warmington and really is a hidden gem! It’s the perfect spot for a hearty meal or a place to stop if you’re passing by. They offer home cooked food at reasonable prices – you can choose from a curry, fish and chips, steak pie, pasta dishes, all day breakfasts, burgers, sandwiches, baguettes and pizzas – so whatever you fancy they’re sure to have it! They also cater for events inside or out, and have a secure play area for children. To find out more, call 01832 226497, or visit www.jemsdiner.co.uk.

SMILE BOUTIQUE OPEN EVENING The Smile Boutique are a platinum provider of the fabulous, wireless Invisalign braces and if you want to find out just what a difference it can make then there’s a special open evening on Thursday May 10 from 6pm. No one likes wearing braces and it can really knock your confidence so this new version is fab! The Invisalign braces can treat crooked or overcrowded teeth and they’re clear, removable and comfortable.

The open evening will have great discounts and offers such as up to £300 off all new Invisalign cases, a free consultation, free home whitening and 0% finance options available. To reserve a place email Cheryl@thesmileboutique.co.uk or call 01733 551534.

BOTOX @ BEAUTIFUL BY NICKY Beautiful Day Spa are now offering Botox and fillers and their next session is May 10.

Their aesthetics nurse is called Claire Hutchinson and is an expert in her field and they’ll be giving free consultations for those who wish to stay looking young! One area of botox starts at £99, and you can call the team on 01733 248938 for more details or to book your consultation.

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ESF SPORTS ARE RELOCATING ESF Sports will be relocating at the end of May from their current venue in Godric Square, up to Vision Park in Hampton.

They’ll be having an official launch day on May 12 to celebrate moving to new and improved premises. For more details you can call Emma on 07519576198 or Vic on 07595167679. Their new address will be Phorpres Close, 8-10 Vision Park, Hampton, Peterborough, PE7 8FZ. We wish them every success!

ARTISTS OPEN STUDIOS Peterborough Artists Open Studios (PAOS) is taking place on the weekends of June 9 & 10, 16 & 17 and 23 & 24. Over 60 artists and craftspeople will showcase their work by opening to the public their studios, homes and sometimes gardens. Painting, drawing, pottery, jewellery, weaving, embroidery, mosaics, sculpture, woodwork and textiles will be on display at a range of venues. A preview weekend will be held in Cathedral Square on May 19 – 20, so make sure you check it out!

Visitors can find out more, and plan their visits, at the PAOS website www.paos.org.uk.

DIG VENTURES @ FLAG FEN Vivacity has embarked on an ambitious project with Dig Ventures at Flag Fen this summer called Flag Fen Lives. The archaeological trenches will be open to the general public, and for the first time ever members of the public will be albe to dig alongside the archaeologists as past of the Summer Field School which runs from July 23 - August 12 this year. The Field School will be run by some of the best wetlands archaeologists and specialists in the world, including Raksha Dave from Time Team and Ben Roberts of the British Museum. Dig Ventures will deliver the world’s first ever crowd-funded and sourced archaeological excavation, and from as little as £10 anyone can help. You can find out more about how to sign up by visiting www.digventures.com.

BEAT THIS A current project from Beat This CIC called Crossover is bringing together young adults

with musical skills and gives them the training to establish themselves as music practitioners. This enables people to go into schools, colleges and community projects to spread their enthusiasm and share their skills for making music with others who wouldn’t normally have the opportunity. It’s funded by the NLDC, where trainees have come from socially disadvantaged situations. Beat This CIC is offering free music workshops throughout May and June as part of the next stage of the project and is looking for venues in which to run them – so if you’re interested in Beat This delivering a workshop for your organisation email info@beatthis.org or call 01733 873014.

LAST CHANCE TO ENTER ‘POP’ Arthritis UK has an exciting new charity walk planned – which is the first of its kind in the country! It’s a 5 mile sponsored walk where prizes can be won and it’s taking place on Saturday May 12. All walkers will be given an Arthritis Research UK balloon, which they’ll ‘pop’ once crossing the finish line and find out if they’ve won a prize. One of the prizes is a signed hockey stick donated by the Peterborough Phantoms.

Other prizes include a night at the Peterborough Greyhound Stadium for up to 40 people (worth £600), a free meal at the Little Chef, theme park tickets, theatre tickets, a book signed by local actor Warwick Davis and loads more. There’s still time to enter and it costs just £5 per person which includes a fantastic goody bag. For more info on Pop Around Peterborough email m.clarke@arthritisresearchuk.org or call 01733 331721.

THE ART CURATOR COMES TO QUEENSGATE Everyone loves the convenience and simplicity of buying online but sometimes you just can’t beat seeing the item you want to buy in the flesh. The Curator’s mission is to take fantastic art and show it to as many people as possible – and they’ll be popping up in Queensgate from May 1 – 13, with live painting on May 5 – 6 by Adam Barsby and also on May 12 – 13 with Adam Barsby and Sharon Ward. Find out more on www.theartcurator.com/events

EXOTIC PET OPEN DAY One of the few open days allowed at the Exotic Pet Refuge takes place this month on Sunday May 20. It’s your chance to see the animals and support this fantastic local charity. See monkeys, wolves, llamas, owls, meerkats, otters, parrots, lynx, ring-tailed lemurs, birds of prey, alligators, snakes and lizards at this great family day out. There’ll be a raffle, tombola, gift shop, refreshments and kids competitions so pop in at 102 Station Road, Deeping St James between 10am – 5pm. Admission’s £5 adults, £3 children call 01778 345923 for details or visit www.exoticpetrefuge.org.uk

EAST OF ENGLAND SHOW IS COMING The dates have been set and we can all now look forward to this year’s East of England Show this July 6, 7 & 8. There’ll be everything from Ladies Day, an outdoor evening concert, shopping village, interactive children’s events, food court, a brand new ‘green’ business hub, and over a thousand animals on show that’ll make this year a great one. Now that the event is in its 44th year, there have been some ambitious plans to recreate the countryside atmosphere with a modern twist which will have something to suit all the family! For ticket prices and further information visit the new look show website www.eastofenglandshow.co.uk .

DAVID CLINCHES NEW ROLE

Band will be visiting and playing at the stations. May 12 – 13 is TPO Weekend – a chance to see exchanges of mail at Yarwell Cutting, and finally on May 19 – 20 is the Spring Diesel Gala. For more information on what’s happening visit www.nvr.org.uk/timetable/.

MUSIC FESTIVAL HELPS HEROES Celebrate the Jubilee at a fantastic charity music festival at the Golden Pheasant in Etton on Monday June 4. It’s hoped £2000 plus can be raised for Help For Heroes at the event which runs from 12 noon. It’s a family day with children's rides, bouncy castle, egg and spoon race, fancy dress competition, a raffle and stalls. There’ll be 7-8 bands playing throughout the day and into the evening including The Malingerers, The Limits, Murray Hockridge, Pennyless, The Collaborators, Lloyd Watson and bands from the New College Stamford Performing Arts Department. For more info or to get involved contact Robin Haines - email rob53a@btinternet.com

PLENTY ON THE GO @ NVR May brings loads of entertainment to Nene Valley Railway kicking off with Thomas’ Early May Bank Holiday on May 5 – 7.

Bring your kids along during the school holidays and they’ll be kept occupied all day long! On May 6 Baillies Mills Accordion

ESP distribution stands are located right across the Greater Peterborough area with magazines available at over 800 separate locations.

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Fashionistas should check out this charity fashion show on May 9 featuring ‘second life’ designer clothes fro Circles in Yaxley with proceeds to Peterborough Samaritans. Purchases can be made on the night in cash or cheque payments. Tickets are £7.50 includinga galss of wine from Circles, Chapel St, Yaxley or the Visitor Information Centre. Call 01733 240878 for details.

There’ll be a craft fair full of all things handmade and lovely on Sunday May 13. You can expect beautiful traditional and modern items ranging from jewellery, wood carving, homemade beauty products, jams and cakes to pottery, fabrics, felt and rude cross stitches, you won't find any of this stuff in the local shops!

Hot drinks and delicious home cooked food will be on sale all day.

A pitch costs £5 for individuals and £10 for a group/business stall, just e-mail thegreenbackyard@hotmail.co.uk. Items must be handmade to be sold at this fair.

The black tie do will include a drinks reception and three course meal. There’ll be music and dancing until 1.30am and a host of money spinning fun throughout the evening. It’s taking place at the Haycock Hotel in Wansford on Friday May 11. Tickets are now on sale priced at £65 each or £625 for a table of 10. For info or tickets please email carol@tme.uk.com.

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The glitz and glamour of vintage Hollywood is the theme for this year’s annual May Ball organised by the NSPCC’s Peterborough Business Support Group.

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Local actor David Proud from Whittlesey has been signed up for a new BBC Two drama, Best Of Men starring big names such as Eddie Marsan and Rob Brydon. It’s an uplifting story of the birth of the Paralympic Games and its visionary creator Dr Ludwig Guttmann. David, who appeared in popular TV soap EastEnders is excited about appearing alongside a great cast and says his character Jeremy is – “a much nicer character than Adam Best in EastEnders!” We can’t wait to see another local talent back on the box!

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ACCEPTABLE IN THE 80s 80’s Mania is Europe’s official 1980s Reunion Tribute Concert and is currently touring the UK and taking all 80s music fans by storm. They’re stopping off at the Cresset along the way to perform over 35 smash hits. You’ll see Duran Duran, The Human League, Kim Wilde, Wham, Culture Club, Dead Or Alive, Madness, Spandau Ballet, Madonna plus loads more pop legends recreated in concert. They’ll be backed by a fantastic band and a laser light show, with former Radio One presenter Mike Read officially endorsing the show. So get your legwarmers, headbands, shoulder pads and leggings out as this is one night you’ll want to feel like you’re back in the 80s! It’s on Friday May 11 at 8pm and tickets are £19.50. Box office: 01733 265705.

PAY LIPSERVICE TO BRONTË

KISS CHASE When John Dean attends a school reunion it turns out to be more than just a chance to show everyone how he’s changed. Conversations become intense and memories from the old days unfold about the time when John’s girlfriend at the time died in a house fire. When he discovers that the people he’s with were more involved in the night of her death, he must decide what he’s going to do about it. To find out, head over to the Key Theatre from May 3 – 5, nightly at 7.30pm with a Saturday matinee at 2.30pm. Tickets are £16. Box office: 01733 207239.

LipService – Britain’s favourite literary lunatics, present their cult Brontë spoof Withering Looks. The classic comic duo, Maggie Fox and Sue Ryding, just couldn’t resist the urge to dust off their crinolines, wear flattering bonnets and sit at rained-lashed windows in a pale and decorative manner. Don’t miss this chance to share in the silliness too! Withering Looks takes an ‘authentic’ look at the lives and works of the Brontë sisters – well, two of them actually, Anne’s just popped out for a cup of sugar. Peopled with many of the characters we know and love, Maggie and Sue move effortlessly from frock to frock coat. It’s on at the Key Theatre on Wednesday May 16, tickets are £10 (£7.50 students).

Box office: 01733 207239.

FAGIN’S LAST HOUR

SWAN LAKE The Vienna Festival Ballet have a stunning show in store based on one of the best known love stories. There’ll be lavish costumes and beautiful ballet accompanied by the fabulous music from Tchaikovsky. Swan Lake is one of the most popular ballets in the world full of emotion from hope to despair – the dancers are incredible at delivering the emotions and captivate the audience – so it really isn’t one to be missed. It’s on at Stamford Corn Exchange on Saturday May 12 at 6.30pm. Tickets are £18.50, and £11 for children. Box office: 01780 766455.

PIRATES OF THE CURRY BEAN! Stamford Youth Theatre present a great pirate musical that’s sure to get your booty shaking! Set sail on this pirate adventure on the high seas as young twins Jack and Liza discover a real life treasure map. Soon the infamous Redbeard and his pungent Pirates of the Curry Bean steal the map and kidnap their mother, so the race is on to rescue her, reclaim the map and of course – find the treasure! There’ll be great songs, colourful characters and a witty, sharp script. It’s on at Stamford Arts Centre from May 18 – 19 at 7.30pm on the Friday and 11am, 2.30pm, and 7.30pm on the Saturday. Tickets cost £6. Box office: 01780 763203.

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Following the success of A Christmas Carol – As Told By Jacob Marley, multi award winning actor and writer James Hyland is back with his new unique one-man show.

Fagin’s Last Hour is based on the novel Oliver Twist, and is told from the point of view of Fagin the miser one hour before his execution, and presents Fagin as a complex human being. Hyland’s acting in this show has been described as astonishing and very impressive as he keeps the audience gripped right from the start. It’s on at the Key Theatre on Thursday May 17 at 7.30pm.

Tickets are £9 and are available by calling 01733 207239.

SPIERS AND BODEN Folk duo John Spiers and Jon Boden have a a loud and proud show for all English folk music lovers! They’ve made the genre of stomping folk music their own, and have performed at major festivals far and wide. Jon Boden plays the fiddle and sings in a frantic manner that’s unique yet compelling as John Spiers harmonises with his melodeon alongside him. They’ll be performing at the South Holland Centre in Spalding on Friday May 11 at 8pm. Tickets are £15, or £46 for a family ticket. Box office: 01775 764777.

GUILTY PLEASURES Get ready girls for a celebrity packed night out of sexy fun! Raunchy comedy Guilty Pleasures will be setting the Key Theatre on fire from May 10 – 12 as you follow the fun at a special spa where the guys offer sizzling ‘spa specials’ but when things get a bit too hot to handle will they be able to cope? The cast includes Craig Chalmers (Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat), Marc Bannerman (Gianni di Marco in Eastenders) and CJ de Mooi (Eggheads).

As all their various stories unfold and unravel, you share their laughter and tears in this hilarious production with a bittersweet edge. It promises to be the ultimate girls’ night out. Tickets are £18.50. Box office: 01733 207239.

MUGENKYO TAIKO DRUMMERS You don’t want to miss out on the chance to see the Mugenkyo Taiko Drummers during their tour of the UK this month. Listen to their powerful Taiko rhythms, huge drums, and watch the amazing choreography as they present a dramatic and theatrical show. This year is an important year for the drummers as it celebrates 20 years since first travelling to Japan and starting their Taiko path, so join them at the Key Theatre on Sunday May 20. Tickets are £18 and the show starts at 7.30pm.

To book your tickets call 01733 207239.

LOCAL

ENTERTAINMENT

Lara Johnson has the ESP guide to the area’s hottest shows...

PETERBOROUGH CHOIRS’ SPRING CONCERT Peterborough Male Voice Choir, Peterborough Voices and Peterborough Youth Choir have another fantastic show in store this month at Oakham Parish Church. They’ll perform a varied programme from choral classics, opera choruses and songs from the shows through to popular ballads and chart hits. It’s sure to be another knock-out performance as they sing their hearts out in the wonderful surroundings of the church. It’s on Saturday May 12 at 7.30pm, tickets are £8 and are available from Peterborough Destination Centre by calling 01733 452336.

PETERBOROUGH

ARTS CINEMA Another must-see line up of films are ready to hit the screen at the John Clare Theatre on Broadway this month. First up is We Need To Talk About Kevin on Thursday May 3 – where you can really see what happens when bad children happen to good parents! Kevin shows his mother no love, just pure hate and always finds new ways to hurt her.

Next up is Hugo on Thursday May 10 – follow Hugo as he takes over the job of superintending the station’s clocks from his drunken uncle, when fate draws him into the orbit of a querulous old man.

The Deep Blue Sea will be shown on Thursday May 24. Set on a single day in a dingy bedsit with an act of despair as Hester attempts to commit suicide by gassing herself.

Finally on Thursday May 31 is Drive - a Hollywood stunt driver who also works for scary criminals as a wheelman falls for a married woman.

All films are shown at 7.30pm, and you can find out more by visiting www.peterboroughartscinema.co.uk.

PAUL MERTON’S OUT OF MY HEAD If you need a good laugh then this is just the show for you – as Paul Merton comes to the Cresset with a night of sketches, music, magic and variety! He’ll be talking about the mighty ‘behemoth’ that is his noggin, and will be proving he’s got legs as he steers away from his Have I Got News For You days. It’s bound to be a great night and he returns to his stand-up roots for the first time this century. He’ll be coming to the Cresset on Tuesday May 15 at 8pm. Tickets are £23 – the show contains adult content and strong language. Box office: 01733 265705.

P.kai have won the eastern region category of the prestigious Your Hair Magazine Best UK Salons competition – yet another accolade for this award-winning salon.

They’re becoming accustomed to success having been shortlisted to the final six in the eastern region of the British Hairdressing Awards when they were up against the cream of the industry.

As P.kai hair prepares for the tenth anniversary of the opening of the Hampton salon, the team are celebrating winning another top hair award.

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Stylist Donna Tovey, from P.kai’s Westgate salon, also won through to the final six in the Best Newcomer category of the national competition. A clear sign of how Kai helps train his team to attain increasingly high standards.

The salon continues to innovate and is always a step ahead with the latest developments. The latest fantastic, but affordable treatment (just £5.95) is the new Collexia Blow Dry Infusion. A treatment pod is placed in the nozzle of the hairdryer and literally infuses your

hair with goodness as it dries. It takes no extra time, the results are great and it lasts for days with a treatment to suit all hair conditions.

Our own Face of ESP Jessica Lockhart, who won hair care for the year from P.kai as one of her prizes, can vouch for its effectiveness.

“It’s been a complete luxury to have such a large donation from P.kai and having the chance to work with a top hair stylist on several occasions,” says Jess.

“My hair was in a complete state when I first went to see Kai and six months on I feel like I have a totally different head of hair. It feels fresh, healthy and always has a shine, whereas before it was limp, lifeless and would never do as it was told!

“Kai explained that using a better shampoo and conditioner and having it cut more regularly would help. He also used the Collexia

repair treatment and I felt the difference as soon as he’d finished drying my hair. ”Kai has used several different techniques and products on my hair and they have all been fantastic. His love for his work really shines through but the whole team have made me feel very welcome and the salons are a lovely environment to have your hair make over.”

To sample award-winning hair care for yourself visit www.pkai.co.uk to claim you special introductory money off voucher.

Serpentine Green Shopping Centre 01733 358835 Westgate Arcade 01733 358825

It’s not about the money, money, money…

If the price tag on your gym’s just too high truGym is here to offer you a great deal to keep in shape.

Since opening in Peterborough last year truGym’s attracted hundreds of people keen to shape up without going weak at the knees at the joining fees.

With a membership plan starting at just £9.99 a month it’s easy to see why this gym is expanding around the country.

TruGym has some really affordable ways to help you get healthy. There are no barriers and you can even join on a no contract option so you don’t have to tie yourself down and commit to too much.

Just because the prices are lower doesn’t mean there’s any less on offer – they provide personal training and free studio classes. They have the latest equipment and convenient opening hours (6am to 10pm and 8am to 8pm weekends) which should mean the old excuse of ‘I can’t find the time’ just doesn’t wash!

There’s no hanging about waiting to get on your favourite piece of fitness equipment either as there are plenty of machines. In the cardio zone you can try treadmills, cross trainers, bikes, steppers, rowing machines – everything you need to get that pulse rate up. Then you can stretch out or try an ab workout in a separate zone of the gym.

For those who want to bulk up and tone, the strength zone has the full range of isolated resistance and plate loaded machines plus there’s a free weights zone.

Staff are on hand to help out if you need advice or an induction session and there are full changing facilities with showers and locker rooms.

Ideally placed in the centre of town on Northminster, truGym looks like a real low cost contender on the gym scene that’s really making fitness available to all. So come on, get that hot body you want for the summer – you can spend the cash you save on your holiday!

Earlham House, Northminster. Tel: 0844 567 2727 or join online www.trugym.co.uk

LOCAL

EVENTS

TIME TO BID FOR THE BOYS @ CITY’S MAN AUCTION! It’s here at last – the city’s first ever charity Man Auction, so cheque books at the ready girls!

If you feared you’d missed out, the venue had to be changed due to unforeseen circumstances but now the guys are ready to be auctioned off on Friday May 18 at the Parkway Club on Maskew Avenue.

It’s all to raise money for some very worthwhile causes and as ESP is supporting the event our Face of ESP girls will be on hand to help them hit the stage!

So who can you bid for on the ‘man menu’? Well, there’s a slave for the day, a gardener, a photographer, a car mechanic, and much more so whatever you need a man for you’ll be able to bid for his services.

This fantastic new charity event sounds like it’ll be a great night out and is raising funds for Sue Ryder, ACT making a difference for patients at Addenbrookes and Stuart Niven from local company Royal Haskoning who was badly injured in a car accident, see www.stuartniven.co.uk Any guys who think they could be auctioned off to raise some vital cash, and girls who’d like tickets should get in touch with Karen Devine who’s organising the event on 01733 321107.

GLAMOUR GALORE

Fancy a great girlie day out full of shopping, fashion and pampering? Well, this month Glamour Galore is back in aid of Sue Ryder and this time it’s bigger and better than ever.

It’s now being held at the Marriott hotel in Alwalton on Sunday May 27 and once again ESP is supporting this great charity event. We’ll be staging fabulous fashion shows throughout the day featuring the hottest and most glamorous summer looks from John Lewis.

There’ll be around 40 stalls packed with gorgeous girlie desirables, demonstrations, a pamper zone where you can get your nails done or have a mini massage and a swishing area to swap your old clothes plus lots more – sounds like the ideal Sunday outing to us!

Admission’s just £5 on the door which includes a glass of wine, but if you pre-register online at www.sueryder.org or call 01733 330060 you’ll also receive a free goody bag.

Photo: Chris Brudenell

CHRIS STARS @ TRUCKFEST

HALFORDS TOUR SERIES RETURNS The ten round city centre race series returns to Peterborough this year on Tuesday May 29 as the city cements itself as a permanent fixture on the Tour’s Calendar. It’s a unique gladiatorial and exciting team race featuring ten teams of five professional cyclists who compete to become overall champions of the Tour Series. The main race lasts for one hour over the city centre course which takes riders down Bridge Street, round Bourges Boulevard and through Cathedral Square. Events take place all day with the Womens Grand Prix series and local companies and schools also taking part. www.tourseries.co.uk

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For a truly monster day out – there’s nothing quite like Truckfest, which is celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2012 and comes to the East of England Showground on May 6 and 7! Coronation Street and Hollyoaks star Chris Fountain is just one of the celebs making an appearance so don’t be fooled into thinking that Truckfest is just for those in the road haulage industry. The show’s packed with fun things for all the family, and this year is no different, with stars from TV and stage and the very best in motorised entertainment from Bigfoot, Slingshot and motorcycle stunt acts. Tickets are priced; adult £14, child (5-15) £6, family (2a+2c) £35, for full details visit www.truckfest.co.uk

GET READY FOR GREEN FESTIVAL We’re set to go green and ESP is backing the city’s annual Green Festival which runs from June 2 – 10 It’s organised by the Peterborough Environment City Trust (PECT) and kicks off with a fabulous launch event in Cathedral Square showcasing the work of a number of local charities, community groups and businesses.

The city centre will be packed full of FREE games, activities and entertainment.

Throughout the festival there are dozens of events and ESP will once again be supporting the popular Swish clothes swap at the Eco Innovation Centre, Peterscourt, City Road from 5.30pm – 7.30pm on Thursday June 7.

Always a hugely popular event, the Swish is an evening of clothes swapping fun. Take along your old clothes and swap them with someone else to bag a whole new outfit. You must sign up for this one, admission’s £5, call 01733 866445 or email ben.middleton@pect.org.uk to book your place!

There’s loads more planned throughout The Green Festival so visit www.pect.org.uk/greenfestival and keep an eye on www.espmag.co.uk for all the latest.

GALAXY OF STARS HEAD FOR CITY’S SCI-FI SHOW Get ready for a celeb fest in the Boro as a host of famous faces descend on Peterborough Arena for The Greatest Show In the Galaxy including Mr Showbiz himself, John Barrowman!

This celebration of sci-fi and cult TV shows comes to the East of England Showground on May 12 and 13.

The TV presenter and celebrity will be wowing fans of his alter ego Captain Jack Harkness, from the hit TV show Torchwood, at the weekend event.

John will be among a number of Torchwood cast members meeting fans along with an impressive line up of stars including cast members of Ashes To Ashes, Doctor Who stars Colin Baker, Sylvester McCoy and Paul McGann, actor Christopher Lambert from Highlander,The Avengers star and Pussy Galore actress – the legendary Honor Blackman, Peter Firth who plays Sir Harry Pearce in BBC hit show Spooks, Mark Lester and Ron Moody – aka Oliver and Fagin from the hit film Oliver and Blake 7’s Paul Darrow.

Ticket prices vary according to admission times and whether there is a preference to have an autograph or photograph with your favourite star.

For details visit www.trebleaceevents.co.uk or call 01480 451792.

Be part of it FaceofESP’12

Whether you’re a girl who wants to be the next ‘face’ about town and an ambassador for ESP Magazine for a whole year, or a local company who’d like a slice of the action here’s your chance to be a part of the city’s most unique competition.

GIRLS GET READY Girls – we’ll begin the hunt for a new girl to step into Jessica Lockhart’s high heels in June so make sure you pick up next month’s issue.

The Face of ESP is like nothing else and aims to make one ordinary girl a local celeb who’ll represent the fun loving spirit of ESP and enjoy some amazing experiences.

You’ll need to look after yourself, but it’s not a beauty pageant, so you’ll need oodles of personality and be keen to get out there to promote us and our sponsors.

Jess says she’s already had a wonderful few months – “Being the Face of ESP for the last seven months has been the most amazing experience. I have met so many incredible people; most of those work in the ESP offices and are part of the ESP family. I’ve had the chance to meet several celebrities along the way too, Matt Cardle, Jake Humprey and Warwick Davis, to name just a few. The prizes and gifts I have been given have been absolutely incredible and unimaginable!”

STILL TIME TO SPONSOR If you’re a local business and want to be associated with this hugely popular, prestigious local event there’s still time to become a sponsor or supporter.

This is the event that Peterborough talks about and follows closely… your company could be in that glare of publicity and interest. Whether it’s in the heat of the event itself on Friday September 7 when you’ll have the opportunity to impress your clients or celebrate with your staff, or maybe through the continued exposure over several months in the magazine, or the opportunity to show what you do when our winner showcases your company, there’s no doubt you, your company and your products and services will be noticed.

We have packages available that provide all of the above or selected parts to suit your needs and your budget. But don’t delay; there are only so many spots available.

Be a part of helping us chose our tenth Face of ESP! To be a sponsor of the Face of ESP’12 call now on 01733 579707.

EVENT PARTNER

SPONSORED BY

SUPPORTED BY

THE PLOUGHMAN WERRINGTON

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6th & 7th

MAY

EAST OF ENGLAND

SHOWGROUND PETERBOROUGH

Home Cooked Food with locally sourced produce served all day.

• • • •

Open Log Fire Warm welcome 4 Real Ales Live Entertainment at the weekend

Chris Fountain

(See ESP Gig Guide or website)

Monday to Saturday: 12pm -9pm Sunday Roast: 12pm -6pm

Meet Chris Fountain at TRUCKFEST on Sunday May 6th, other celebrities appearing over both days.

1305 Lincoln Road, Werrington, Peterborough, PE4 6LW Tel: 01733 322006 w: www.cock-inn.co.uk e: enquires@cock-inn.co.uk

stylish

A and contemporary restaurant refurbished to a high standard

Dine in

spacious, chic surroundings

Discount tickets available on

0844 209 7363 www.truckfest.co.uk

Indulge in

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

Enjoy cocktails and Tapas at our

relaxing bar

• Look at our new exciting lunchtime menu!

• Light snacks and salads • Usual menu also available

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

MORE SEX SEATING ARRANGEMENT

pep.cipriano@espmag.co.uk

Men who make more domestic decisions in a relationship get more sex. That’s according to The Journal of Sex Research. The toilet seat stays up from now on then.

Pep Cipriano

NEW BAR AIMS FOR ‘IMPECCABLE SERVICE’ Around about Christmas time we’ll be treated to the opening of a new city centre bar that I’m told is going to be like nothing we’ve seen before in Peterborough.

a premium for it. After an exclusive chat with one of the men, who subject to final planning approval will be commissioning work to start on the new bar, I can reveal:

That old chestnut I hear you say. Yes, I admit if I had a £1 for each time I’ve heard this said by new venue proprietors in our city then I’d easily have enough money to fill my car up with petrol by now.

• Clientele will benefit from a “Proper” VIP service

But (dare I say it) this time it’s different. Different because the owners of this new bar on Broadway are already successful businessmen in their own right who don’t need to go into such a venture to feather their finances. That’s why they’re taking their time.

• The décor and vibe will be – “On a distinctly different level to anything else in Peterborough.” It’ll be classy and glitzy and it’ll stay that way

More importantly, the focus of this new bar is all about providing a sterling service but without punters having to pay

This new bar has the makings of something very special for our city and ESP Magazine is proud to be supporting it.

Watch this space to see it unfold…

• Service is king and it will be “Impeccable” with personal service being key

• Clientele will be quality. No groups of lads and no intimidating atmosphere

• Capacity will be 300 so nice and exclusive

HAPPY DAZE WITH £900 RAISED! First of all I need to thank organiser and Harley’s Diner owner Richard Swinscoe for the beers. His six-pack gift made my man flu-ravaged trip back from Market Deeping all the more tolerable.

HATCHED LATE FOR A GOOD EGG RUN To all those motorists who saw an orange Vespa parked in an abandoned-like fashion (that’s just Italian parking) on Thorpe Road a few weeks ago, yes that was I and no, I hadn’t broken down.

The folk in Deeping know how to put on an event (the Raft Race is always brill) and Daze is no exception. More than 350 motorcyclists from all over the country (mainly on Harley Davidsons) and hundreds of locals turned out to raise £920 on the day for Afghan Heroes.

I was merely waiting to join the police-escorted convoy of scooters that had set off for the annual Easter Egg run in aid of Sue Ryder, which is organised by the Peterborough Lambretta and Vespa Scooter Club each year.

Even the Mayor of Market Deeping joined the procession of Harleys on his own Harley Davidson as they rumbled into Deeping.

The reason I was parked up is because the convoy had left earlier than planned and that meant me joining up with the army of Lambrettas and Vespas as they approached the final leg of their journey and their Thorpe Hall destination.

I did complete the full ride out a few years ago and it’s a brilliant experience to be part of. Next Easter can’t come quick enough. In the meantime guys please let me know if there’s another ride out I can be (on time) at! Check out www.plvsc.co.uk if you want to join the Peterborough scene.

CIAOS OUT > 14

www.espmag.co.uk

Even though man flu meant the end was nigh for me, I was determined not to let it stop me supporting the second Harley Daze event at Harley’s Diner.

The event was awash with traditional American food and beer and bands blaring out classic rock and roll numbers from the 50s and 60s.

CAUGHT IN

THE ACT! “Leg or wing? No always breast.” matter. Nando’s chicken is

Planning for next year’s Daze is already underway and it promises to be bigger and better. Watch this space…

>> Gary – next ride out suggestion? >> Ann and Jess – good luck. It's been emotional... >> Jamie – see you at boxing? >> Mikey & Rachael – yes we’ll be there! >> Gino – legend on the pads! >> David P – I’ve written a paragraph…

<

AMERICAN WEREWOLF IN FLETTON This photo of a bunch of would-be footballers taken on a field in Fletton circa 1979 would be a great addition to the Forty Years On project – especially as Grizzly Adams was starring in goal that particular afternoon.

Forty Years On is a three-year programme of theatre, oral history and archive work led by Eastern Angles Theatre Company and the Peterborough Archives Service. It explores, archives and creatively interprets 40 years of Peterborough history from 1968 to 2008.

Air conditioning that’s guaranteed to keep you cool no matter how hot you get!

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It means we’ll get the chance to see the history of our city’s development and see it celebrated in a touring documentary show and play based on the research and stories of residents.

“It isn't often you come across a company with not only exceptional customer service but also a high level of work standards.

“I would highly recommend RS Air Conditioning to future clients, they have been a joy to work with - excellent service, quick turnaround service, excellent work and they make my job very easy, so what more could you ask for? The high level of service flows throughout the team from the management and office based staff to the guys who complete the work.

“I would like to thank RS Air Conditioning for a great working relationship and one I’m sure will continue for many years to come.”

Kerry Jones, Dansac Ltd

Volunteers are currently cataloguing archives of the Peterborough Development Corporation to enable our access to the material for the first time. Interviews from people who relocated to the city during our rapid 40-year expansion programme will also form part of the work.

17 St.Davids Square, Fengate, Peterborough, PE1 5QA Tel: 01733 882580 • Fax: 01733 882589 E-mail: enquiries@rsairconditioning.co.uk

To get involved call 01733 864298 or email tina.bramhill@vivacity-peterborough.com

MY WORD OF THE MONTH

Festival

Book now for a

You either love them or hate them…see you at The Willow: Fun, food, frolics, fishy, beer, banter, boke, bands, burping, bursting, tinnitus, tease, taste, tent, kebab, cool, can, sweat, smell, sick, sag, sunshine, mud, meat, mad, massive and Magners.

CALLING ALL BMW GS RIDERS...

FREE 15mins trial

•

•

Open 7 days a week

Booking essential

I must confess to not being a GS man although the one I’m pictured with is a nice bit of kit.

This special edition BMW 650 GS comes with a larger front wheel (both spoked) to soak up potholes and difficult terrain, a high windshield, aluminium engine guard and hand protectors for enhanced rider and motorcycle protection.

And if you own a GS then read on because you’re being invited to compete for three available places representing team UK in the 2012 GS Trophy UK qualifier, which takes place at the annual BMF bike show over the weekend of May 18 to 20 at the East of England Showground.

Competitors will test their skills on a series of off-road challenges on different BMW adventure-sports bikes, as well as taking part in road-based sections on your own GS motorcycle.

You can even come over and meet yours truly (I know, what a treat) and some of the friendly Balderston crew on the stand on the Sunday. If successful you’ll be representing the UK at the international final of the 2012 BMW Motorrad GS Trophy in South America.

For more details visit www.balderston.net or call 01733 565470.

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

With all the best high street brands under one roof: Dorothy Perkins, Miss Selfridge, Topshop, Wallis, Warehouse, Oasis, Burton and Topman – to name just a few – Outfit has your new season style sorted.

Don’t miss the fabulous new collections now in store at Outfit – making updating your wardrobe this spring / summer a breeze.

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Brights should play a key role in any wardrobe this season. Whether it's bright colour blocking, orange and tangerine hues or bold tropical prints they’ll help you stand out from any crowd in the style stakes.

For a more subtle look, don't miss the sport-luxe trend and there are pastel shades in every way shape and form. We’re lusting after candy coloured jeans in every colour!

Pop into Outfit at Serpentine Green, Peterborough and keep bang on trend!

Products available in Outfit while stocks last.

MEET JEFF BANKS @ SPRINGFIELDS Listen up guys – here’s your chance to meet one of Britain’s best known designers and the chance to win yourself some fabulous new threads courtesy of Springfields Outlet Shopping and ESP Magazine.

Jeff Banks, former presenter of TV’s The Clothes Show, is making a personal appearance at his store at the shopping centre in Spalding on Saturday May 19. He’ll be there from 12 noon until 3pm to meet customers and share his enthusiasm for his fantastic range of menswear.

The store is one of over 50 outlet shops at Springfields offering great deals, but during Jeff’s visit there’ll be a further 10% off his range – even more reason to head down there.

ESP Magazine has teamed up with Springfields for a great competition for the guys where you can win a made to measure Jeff Banks suit worth over £275! Not only that you’ll get to meet the man himself and get personal advice on what to wear, colours and cloth to choose so it’s your own mini makeover with the man himself!

Jeff has been in the fashion industry for 40 years and there are two prestigious Jeff Banks brands – Stvdio, a fashion forward range of mixer suits and co-ordinates that reflect key trends to create a modern and eclectic collection, and Jeff Banks London, an elegant range of sharp, contemporary suits defined with a modern fit but tailored with a classic twist.

COMPETITION

So guys, this is one shopping trip you should actually enjoy!

WIN A JEFF BANKS SUIT WORTH OVER £275!

Come on guys, time to become a real sharp dressed man! ESP and Springfields are offering you the chance to meet Jeff Banks and win a FREE made to measure suit, worth in excess of £275.

The winner will be fitted for the suit and helped with styling from the man himself, but you must be available to attend on Saturday May 19, 2012 at 2.30 pm at the Jeff Banks store in Springfields Outlet Shopping Centre in Spalding to claim the prize. If you are unable to attend at that time the prize will be forfeited and cannot be transferred to another date.

To get your name in our designer hat guys, just text or email SUIT along with your name, address and contact number.

Entries must be in by 11/05/12. Usual competition rules apply, winner MUST BE ABLE TO ATTEND as specified, there is no cash alternative, winner will be notified.

TEXT HOTLINE

07762 147679

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

www.espmag.co.uk

17

Nene Park Golf

‘Dry’ving Rangeuded) (trainers incl

The long awaited two-tier driving range at Thorpe Wood Golf Course in Peterborough has opened and is ready for business!

“Thorpe Wood and Orton Meadows have been the entry point into golf for many people in the Peterborough area,” said Director Simon Fitton.

“Golf is sometimes viewed as inaccessible and a little snobby but this has never been the case at our courses. The introduction of a driving range means that we will be able to provide a great facility for anyone wanting to try the sport as well as offering a professional coaching and practice venue for experienced golfers making it truly open to all.”

The driving range provides the perfect place to practice your swing ahead of tackling Thorpe Wood’s challenging 18 hole golf course which sits 2 miles to the west of Peterborough city centre. There is also a large golf shop, clubhouse and Greene King public house on site to offer a complete day out for golfers old and young.

Director of Golf at Nene Park Golf, Simon Fitton said – “We are delighted that we can offer Peterborough’s golfing community a facility to use and be proud of. It is a quality modern golf

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range and is unusual because of its two-tier design. We are delighted with the feedback and excitement that visitors have shown watching it being built and couldn’t wait for it to be open. I would encourage everybody with an interest in the sport to come and hone their skills at the new range and if you’ve never thought about golf then come and give it a go”.

info DRIVING RANGE OPENING TIMES:

He added – “We aim to be the hub of golf in the area so people will be able to come here and increase participation in golf. The game in the whole area will get a lift and we are delighted with the support from the County Partnership.”

Thorpe Wood and Orton Meadows Golf Courses are owned by Nene Park Trust as part of the wider Nene Park which includes Ferry Meadows Country Park. The golf courses are operated on behalf of the Trust by Nene Park Golf and the development of the driving range has been part of the ongoing investment programme across the Park to benefit the people of Peterborough and surrounding area.

Face of ESP Jessica Lockhart clearly had fun on her lesson – “I’ve never played golf before but after being taught a few skills I wouldn’t say no to playing again and the driving range is a great place to start practicing the basics!”

They offer a new six week golfstart development course for all types of groups. The courses are perfect for taking you from a total novice to getting you ready to tackle the challenge of the golf course. It’s only £30 for a six week course

Jess had her lesson with PGA Golf Professional Jordan Nichols.

Mon/Fri : 9am ‘til 9pm Sat/Sun : 9am ‘til 8pm

which is taught by Nene Park Golf teaching professionals where they’ll guide you through learning the swing and the short game, giving you the knowledge of the rules and etiquette of golf which are important as you start on your journey to playing this wonderful game.

Not only is golf a fun sport, but it’s great for your general health and fitness.

To find out more or to book your development course, call them on 01733 267701.

Thorpe Wood Golf Course Thorpe Wood, Peterborough, PE3 6SE Tel: 01733 267701

Costs : 25 balls £2, 50 balls £3.50, 85 balls £5 (prices based when using free membership card) GOLF SHOP OPENING TIMES: Mon/Fri : 7am ‘til 9pm Sat/Sun :7am ‘til 9pm LET'S PLAY GOLF ACADEMY Golf lessons available seven days a week starting from £9.99 for a taster lesson.

Pitch and Putt at Orton Meadows Golf Course

Golf Practice

no matter what the weather!

e g n a R g in iv r D w e Brand n

N OW O PE N!

Gift vouchers also available to buy for: Rounds of golf • Golf accessories and equipment • Golf lessons

www.neneparkgolf.com

Thorpe Wood Golf Course Thorpe Wood Peterborough PE3 6SE Tel: 01733 267701

Orton Meadows Golf Course Ham Lane, Orton Waterville, Peterborough PE2 5UU Tel: 01733 237478

c Mostly Funny

steve.gonzalez@espmag.co.uk

The page that's come up with a new TV show, 'The Beatles Apprentice'.

Sir Paul McCartney's search for a new songwriter to work with by getting Ringo Starr and Cilla Black to act as his eyes and ears during a series of contrived tasks.

d

SOME ALAN'S DO AVE ‘EM Hooray, The Apprentice is back and once again Sir Lord Alan Sugar is spouting all sorts of business nonsense. "I'm looking for a partner," he said to the contestants at the start – "The Marks to my Spencer, the Lennon to my McCartney."

Pfft, more like the Frank to his Spencer! In every episode there's at least one monumental cock up that gets Shoogs riled up. And as for finding 'the Lennon to his McCartney', judging by all the bitching and backstabbing it seems like he's found a few candidates to be 'the Heather Mills to his McCartney'. So sticking with The Beatles theme, what better way to celebrate Big Grey Al picking the wrong person as his 2012 Apprentice than with a parody of one of Lennon & McCartney's greatest songs...

Hey Shoogs, don't feel sad It's the eighth series and the format is looking tired But just remember that people are only tuning in Just so they can hear you say the words 'You're fired...fired, fired, fired, fired'. Na, Na, Na, Na, Na, Na, Na, Na Nah – Hey Shoogs!

BOYCIE AT WATERSTONES

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Photos: Chris Brudenell

John Challis 'Boycie' from Only Fools And Horses was recently in the city signing copies of his autobiography at Waterstones.

There was a cushty turn out for it, and John was on great form slipping in and out of character as he signed copies and posed for photos. If you missed it, Waterstones on Bridge Street have a limited number of signed copies put by that would make a great Father's Day present for next month, June 17. See www.espmag.co.uk for my interview with John about his role in the much loved TV show.

WOLFIE'S TRUCKFEST DARTS CHALLENGE

BACK IN BLACK TO THE FUTURE

And from one bearded legend to another – Deeping's darts ace, Martin 'Wolfie' Adams! He'll be appearing at Truckfest on May 6 & 7 at the East of England Showground. As regular readers will know, I've had some great laughs with the three times BDO World Champion and England captain over the years and thanks to a great crowd of fans last year, it's brilliant that Wolfie's been invited back. If you fancy the opportunity of taking him on in a darts match then head down and step up to the oche. There’ll be some other celebrities there as well, some bloke from Hollyoaks I think, but you won't get the chance to take him on in an acting class.

Honestly, you wait 25 years to have your favourite film shown at Ferry Meadows on a giant inflatable screen, only to find its put on the same night, Saturday May 5, that your favourite band's tribute act are playing an open air gig at The Angel Inn, Yarwell! Talk about a heavy (metal) dilemma. Do I go for Let There B/DC firing out AC/DC classics or Marty McFly firing out memorable lines in Back To The Future? With both of them on at the SAME time, I really could do with a flux capacitor being fitted to my Vauxhall Vectra...

www.espmag.co.uk

Photos: Emma Bothamley / Chris Brudenell

Mikey Clarke chats to Tony Robinson

Of course as well as his keen interest in history, Tony is well known for starring as Baldrick in historical drama Blackadder. Despite being made so long ago, the show is still watched regularly now.

The actor takes pride in that the BBC series stood the test of time, describing the feeling as – “Phenomenal. I’m so proud that new generations are introduced to Blackadder and enjoy it. I feel that character is a big part of me.”

During filming was it clear that a classic was being made? “I didn’t know the show was as popular as it was until the second series,” Tony told me. “I was just a normal family man doing things with my kids; it wasn’t like I was popping in and out of The Ivy. I was dealing with things like taking the kids to school and taking them on days out. I was at Alton Towers with my kids one day and we could hardly move. My presence there caused chaos, and that’s when it hit me that we had created a hit.”

Time to join Baldrick’s Team ESP’s Mikey Clarke had a cunning plan – catch up with TV’s Tony Robinson at the opening of Peterborough Museum to dig deep about his career…

“I remember visiting the Peterborough Museum in the 50s and back then it was such a dull place,” Tony, star of TV’s Time Team explained. “I was a kid and had to be dragged into the building. It’s completely different now. It’s so inviting, friendly, and fun.”

Clearly the £3.2 million spent on revamping this local attraction has been money well

spent. Pop in for yourself and see the transformation – the interactive displays wowed us, not just Tony! He’d also spent time at Flag Fen and told me – “I love the place. It’s an amazing archaeological site.

With the Museum and Flag Fen, I’m convinced Peterborough is well on its way to becoming one of the most provincial centres for history and archaeology in the country.”

COMEDY GIGS Where to catch great live comedy this month…

FUNHOUSE COMEDY CLUB

May

2

This month’s comedy at North Street Bar features headliner Alfie Moore who appeared on TV’s Show Me The Funny. Still a serving police sergeant he brings a wealth of insights and comedy moments from his eighteen years on the beat.

Supporting is imaginative ‘Aussie’ Benny Boot with fast paced, surreal, offbeat comedy and another ‘Aussie’ in the form of cheeky Matt Dwyer. Compere for the night is Spiky Mike. Tickets are £7.50 in advance on www.funhousecomedy.co.uk. Tel: 01733 892681.

FUNHOUSE COMEDY CLUB BOURNE

May

4

Funhouse returns to the Angel Hotel in Bourne. Headlining is affable Irish comedian and actor Paddy Lennox with laugh-a-minute gags.

Support comes from comedian and radio presenter Steve N. Allen, with his amusingly witty anecdotes about the world of radio and his failed attempts at romance, the outrageous comedian/magician Wayne the Weird, known as ‘The Master of Stupidity & Nonchalance’ and engaging Paul F Taylor comperes.

Tickets £7 in advance on www.funhousecomedy.co.uk

FUNHOUSE COMEDY CLUB WHITTLESEY

May

4

TVs Paddy Lennox and Steve N. Allen, Joseph Wilson & Lloyd Griffith appear at the Flacon Hotel in Whittlesey with tickets £10 in advance, limited 2-4-1 offer available on tickets in advance from the venue only. Tickets available direct from venue or online at www.funhousecomedy.co.uk. Pre-show meals available call 01733 351001.

JONGLEURS

May

It’s alright for some! So where do you go to find Tony Robinson? If you can’t afford the flight tickets to Australia, keep a look out next time you’re walking around Flag Fen!

FUNHOUSE COMEDY CLUB TALLINGTON

May

25

The Lakeside Bar & Restaurant at Tallington Lakes once again hosts a great night of comedy with Shazia Mirza, Barry Dodds, Sean Heydon and compere Spiky Mike, with pre-show meals available. Tickets £10 in advance with discounts available for tables of 10 in advance from the venue. Tickets available direct from venue or online at www.funhousecomedy.co.uk. Call 01778 380828.

CRESSET COMEDY

May

25

Hilarious observations and jokes from Scotsman Dougie Dunlop who’s supported Dylan Moran and Sean Hughes. Support comes from the talented award winning comedian Nathan Caton with his razor sharp wit and improv plus down to earth story teller David Ward and Seattle compere Erich McElroy. Box office: 01733 265705.

10 STAMFORD COMEDY CLUB

The comedy club returns to the South Holland Centre in Spalding with three comedians and MC from Jongleurs’ roster of up-and-coming comedy talent. Grab a drink from the bar and enjoy the laughs from your table! Box office: 01775 764777.

PAUL MERTON

And what does the future hold for this particular celeb? Tony revealed – “I’m going to be spending a lot of time in Australia filming for their Discovery Channel. The timing is perfect. I’ll be working in the UK during the summer and heading out there in the sun during the UK winter.”

May

25

The weird and wonderful Paul Ricketts, a superb mix of stand up and silly songs from Anthony King and the kooky, quirky off the wall Caroline Mabey make up this month’s offering. Tickets £12, concessions available. Box office: 01780 763203.

May

15

Paul returns to his stand-up roots for the first time this century and joins us at the Cresset. Away from the Have I Got News For You desk Paul Merton proves he's got legs. A night of sketches, music, magic and, variety. With Paul Merton, Lee Simpson, Richard Vranch and Suki Webster. Tickets £23 on 01733 265705.

THE LATE BAR COMEDY CLUB BOURNE

May

31

Enjoy a three course meal and some great live stand up at The Late Bar Comedy Club for just £15. Meal from 7.30pm, show starts 9pm. Tickets £15 (advance booking only) from the venue direct. Tel: 01778 393644. www.espmag.co.uk

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LARGEST ALPINESTARS STORE IN THE UK

Welcome to this month’s bikers’ news feature brought to you by Wheels Motorcycles.

An essential part of motorcycle riding is obviously the riding kit you wear, and it goes way deeper than just the legal minimum of wearing a helmet.

Here at Wheels Motorcycles we have the world’s premier manufacturer of motorcycle clothing, . Since 1963 they have perfected the needs of the motorcycle rider whether you are a world champion racer (Checa, Stoner), continental tourer, commuter, off roader or just ride for pleasure Alpinestars has exactly the right clothing for your needs. If it’s quality, protection and style then Alpinestars are the world leaders to look at.

Our other major brand is a British premium budget marque that through extensive UK design and testing has seen sales in recent years rocket, with a great many riders in British Superbikes and the Isle of Man TT handing down great development and feedback that’s been passed on to produce the best value for money riding apparel on the market today.

Helmets are the most significant purchase a rider has to make and there’s a minefield of quality,

shell materials, weights and designs that can seem bewildering when you first look at our extensive helmet display from major brands like Arai, Shark and HJC. Fortunately we have fully factory trained helmet and clothing specialists who will be happy to guide you through and advise on the right clothing for your requirements.

Motorcycle apparel is not just worn to save your life like the airbags in a car, it can also make a dramatic difference to your enjoyment on a ride, if your summer kit is well ventilated and in the right materials then you’ll feel a lot better with no potential loss in concentration. Equally, clothing for the colder weather needs to be warm and waterproof. Remember, there is no such thing as the wrong weather, just the wrong clothing.

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.

I I I I I I I

General Gym Use Personal Training for 1-2-1 or group sessions Boxing related Personal Training Padwork Sessions Spinning Classes Tummy Toning Classes Boxing Circuits

ESF will be moving at the end of the month to Phorpres Close, 8 – 10 Vision Park, Hampton, Peterborough, PE7 8FZ. Official launch day May 12th please call for further information.

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.

ESF Sports Ltd, Unit 2, Godric Square Maxwell Road, Woodston, Peterborough PE2 7JJ Call or txt Emma or Vic on 07519576198 / 07595167679 for further details.

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

Special Tuesday night banquet

A u t h e n t i c a l l y I ndian

(every Tuesday) RESTAURANT • B A R • TA K E AWAY A great family venue with a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

Angel Spice is the place to go whatever the occasion. We will make it a night to remember, catering for Christmas, birthdays, office, family and general party celebrations!

• We seat up to 100 people. • Fully licensed bar.

• Lots of choice for vegetarians as well as traditional English meals for those who are less adventurous.

Choice of any starter, main dish, any rice, any naan bread and any side dish (to share) all for £9.95.

Large parties are welcome.

Quality Food Good Service Relaxed Ambience

The Annual Stilton Cheese Rolling Family Day on Bank Holiday 7th May. Open from 10.30am, for further details please call us on 01733 244373.

Special Sunday all day buffet 12noon – 10pm Children and senior citizens £4.95 per head. Children under 6 years old eat for free.

Adults £8.95 per head.

Up to 40 freshly prepared mouth watering dishes to choose from.

English dishes also available.

2-4 High Street, Stilton, Peterborough, PE7 3RA • Tel: 01733 244373 • www.angelspice.co.uk Opening times: Mon-Thu – 5pm-11.30pm • Fri – 5pm-12.30am • Sat – 11.30am-2pm & 5pm-2.30pm • Sun – 12pm-11.30pm

New star stylist Sophie Thackery who is Wella Trend Vision Regional Finalist 2012 is coming to work in our salon!

We are offering a colour, cut & blow dry for only £50! s Rd

Bishop

Rivergate

A15

e St

Bridg

P We are here

Key Theatre

paparazzi Caught in the act?

PARTIES, MUSIC AND FUN! You know we love a good party and of course we couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t resist sending our Paparazzi team to our very own Tori Bradshawâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 21st! Looking every bit the star, former Face of ESP Tori celebrated in glamorous Vegas style complete with casino tables. Emma Bothamley snapped the party goers having a ball.

Our photographer Mike Harris ventured over to Smiths in Bourne to catch the multi talented Chris Conway and his folk band Govannen in action entertaining music fans at a packed night in the pub, and captured drinkers in the act of having a great night out.

Then it was comedy time and Mike dropped by for a laugh a minute at the Voodoo Stands Up comedy club in Stamford. Keep an eye on our comedy pages for all the comedy listings and check this club out when you next get chance.

View all our Paparazzi pics on www.espmag.co.uk

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ESP

CELEBS

Alexandra Burke Alexandra Burke is hooking up with the JLS boys for a summer tour and has a new single out this month. ESP’s Susan Saunders has the latest on our cover star…

We've all done it – or at least I hope it's not just me – tuned in to the X Factor in the early stages when the 'singers' perform renditions of Killing Me Softly (literally) in the new key of Z. We then turn off when the sob stories start (the ONLY time this is acceptable is when it's something like Sports Relief or Live Aid) and find some other 'happy' show to watch like Biggest Loser (other TV shows available!) when the good performers begin.

Luckily, before I became a secret fan of car crash telly, I was somewhat engaged in the X Factor and so saw this month's ESP cover star, Alexandra Burke, grow from strength to strength. For those of you who had long before engaged in car crash telly (tut tut), here's what you missed.

After winning X Factor against Ray Quinn in 2008, Alexandra Burke catapulted to no.1 with, to date, the UK's fastest selling single by a female, Hallelujah.

Fast forward a few years and Alexandra has sold over four million UK records, had three UK no.1 singles, a no.1 album, Overcome, selling over 1m copies internationally as well as on home turf.

She's headlined an X Factor arena tour, theatre tour, launched an exclusive Selfridges clothing line, completed a Peruvian Inca Trail charity hike and is the face of Sure. Phew!

“Every day I wake up and thank my lucky stars that this is happening to me,” says Alexandra. “There have been so many pinch yourself moments, surpassing every single one of my expectations, sometimes on a day-to-day basis.”

her humble beginnings on a council estate in North London. Alexandra’s early life and close relationships with her grandparents, mother (who sang with Soul II Soul in the 90s) and her siblings, have proved invaluable to her modest attitude.

Not one to sit on her laurels for too long, Alexandra is releasing her brand new single, Let It Go, later this month on May 27.

If you were pondering how you jump from high-rise council flats to high-rise pop-stardom, don't worry, Alex doesn't seem totally clear with how she did it either!

Let It Go is the second single from Alexandra's hugely anticipated second album, Heartbreak On Hold, due for release on June 4.

With an infectious chorus and electronic bass line, it's set to be a modern club classic – you might even see me out shaking my tail feather to it in Edwards one night!

Despite her success though, Alex (look at me being all familiar!) is still so down to earth.

“I still can’t keep my mouth shut and I’m still totally in-your-face. But I didn’t get into this because I didn’t like the person I was, it was never about changing me. I did it because it felt right and I’ve always wanted to sing and perform.

“I am an emotional person and I’m not afraid to admit it. I put my all into what I do. I have to. If I don’t believe in something then I can’t do it.”

Her star lifestyle – one of her gigs includes being flown to Barbados for a show there, with a Peterborough lass as her on set make-up artist (tough job but someone has to do it) is a far cry from

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“I have no idea. I can’t worry about that stuff. I just have to prove that I am worthy of all the incredible emotion and love I feel from fans. The question I have to ask myself is ‘am I worthy?’ which just drives me on to prove it even more.

“I’m not afraid of hard work, I ain’t no shirker. I just want to work my butt off and give back the love I’ve felt coming my way.”

Well that may be true but one thing in her 2012 diary, which we wouldn't deem a hardship, is a six date summer tour with the lovely JLS, and... (drum roll please) one leg is local (ish)! The Lincoln concert, in association with Lincs FM, will take place at the Lincolnshire Showground on Sunday September 2. For more info and to book tickets, visit www.gigantic.com or call 0844 888 9991.

With so much in store, 2012 is shaping up to be the most successful year yet for Alex – watch this space! www.alexandraburkeofficial.com

Unique Affordable La Hola range and many more Italian leather, Swarovski crystal and natural stones Large selection of embellished scarves, gloves, watches & bags

HEALTH

TAKE A WALK ON THE WILD SIDE...

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

charlotte.jolly@espmag.co.uk

FLOWER POWER Make yourself blossom this May with flower power beauty… for peace, love and fabulous skin.

L’occitane Fleur Cherie body lotion is divine and perfect for the summer. It smells sweet yet sophisticated and the creamy, satiny softness of this indulgent lotion really does envelop your skin, leaving it supple and perfumed with a beautiful floral scent. This is by far my favourite body lotion to date. The bottle itself is very art deco and ideal for displaying on your bathroom shelf.

Treat yourself and enjoy!

Primavera organic rose water helps to restore moisture and soften fine facial lines. This aromatic floral water tonic is distilled from Turkish Damask Rose and pure spring water and really does revive hydration.

Suitable for all skin types this rose water has a cleansing,

harmonising and toning effect.

Simply spray onto a cotton wool pad and wipe over clean skin. You can also lightly mist onto your face throughout the day for a refreshing, cooling effect.

Keep your lips soft whilst adding a pretty hint of colour with Vaseline Rosy Lips. The popular petroleum jelly lip salve contains extracts of rose and almond oil, providing therapy to the lips as well as gently tinting them at the same time. Helps to smooth and soften lips and is easy to apply on the go… this product really will make you feel rosy!

Crabtree and Evelyn solid perfumes are conveniently sized and perfect for girls on the go.

With a choice of four floral inspired scents: Iris, Rosewater, Lavender and Lily, it’s never been so easy to indulge in sensuous, uplifting florals anywhere anytime. At just £7 each why not try all four?!

So, don’t wither in the sun like last year’s posies, use these floral beauty must haves to keep your skin rosey!

BUY OF THE MONTH What better way to start celebrating the great British summer than with Strawberries and Dream? Treacle Moon has created a limited edition summer special, Iced Strawberry Dream bath and shower gel which is available exclusively at Tesco for just £2.99. Not only does this smell berry delicious (like Strawberry milkshake) but it evokes happy thoughts of picnics in the sun, bright dewy mornings and of course eating strawberries at Wimbledon. Mmmmm! I know that I’ll be using this religiously throughout the summer months.

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….with Tweezerman’s NEW Safari Cheetah Print Slant Tweezer Collection. These wildly stylish tweezers are guaranteed to tame your brows, giving you sleek, sexy feline arches in no time. The perfectly aligned, slanted tips capture every hair, every time leaving you ready to go on the prowl. These fab forces of nature are available in three fiercely hot colours – orange, pink and blue. Available nationwide, £22.

PURSUING PERFECTION…?

DISCOVER IT AT HOLBEACH The Perfection Hair, Beauty and Spa department at the University Academy Holbeach gives students the fantastic opportunity to gain industry recognised qualifications in hair, beauty and spa ranging from levels 1-3.

Not only are the students great at creating beauty masterpieces but also at creating on stage presentations which is exactly what the level 2 & 3 students have done! The presentation on Monday May 28 at Springfields Events Centre, Spalding, will consist of avant garde hair designs and special effect make-up.

Spalding’s Polka Dot Dance Academy will be performing on stage, displaying the student’s hair and beauty designs as well as celebrity hairdresser Lee Stafford (no, he won’t be dancing!) who’ll be demonstrating his exceptional skills and providing inspirational ideas and techniques on both cutting and colouring hair.

Doors to this exciting event will open at 7pm for a prompt start at 7.30pm.

Tickets are £34 per person payable by cash or cheque with refreshments included. To make sure you don’t miss out get your tickets now by contacting University Academy Holbeach – Hair, Beauty and Spa department on 01406 423042 ext 234/235 or via email lucy.holmes@universityacademyholbeach.org

BEAUTY NEWS FLASH!

Give yourself a lift with Lancôme...

Renergie Multi-lift is Lancôme’s fab new anti-ageing cream which comes in a day, night and eye cream to fight those pesky lines and wrinkles. The good news doesn’t stop there though; best of all is a brand new addition to the line – Renergie tinted moisturiser. It has all the benefits (including the lifting ingredients) of the Multi-lift creams but with the added bonus of a hint of colour to brighten and even the complexion. This multi-tasking moisturiser is a completely new concept and perfect for the summer months when lighter coverage is preferred.

Pay Denise a visit at the Lancôme counter in Boots in Queensgate and she’ll kindly give you samples to try out whilst stocks last.

BROWS ARE THE ONLY WAY FORWARD AT… BB’s Brow Bar correct shape can sometimes take years off you making you look younger without cosmetic surgery.

One method that helps with framing the face is a method offered by BB’s Brow Bar known as ‘threading’, where their therapists use a pure, thin, twisted cotton thread which is rolled over usually untidy eyebrows and upper lips as well as other areas of unwanted hair.

Another must have celebrity brow treatment that anyone can have is the HD brow treatment. This has seven individual techniques that when put together make the ultimate in brow perfection. High Definition Brow Beauty has arrived and is available in the Westgate Arcade at the Queensgate Centre in Peterborough.

BB’s Brow Bar has now been established for over three years and they’re definitely made their mark as one of the ultimate Brow Bar Salons in Peterborough.

‘Framing of the Face’ Eyebrows are a major facial feature – they also have an important function in communication and expressions such as surprise and anger. Many make-up artists view eyebrows as a major feature in defining the face. Eyebrows shape the face and give definition to your eyes and forehead. Having the

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Before

After

BB’s Brow Bar has seen fantastic results with HD Brows, the ultimate in well-groomed, high-definition eyebrows that puts celebrity beauty within everybody’s reach. HD Brows is the unique, seven-step eyebrow shaping treatment that focuses on design. It involves an innovative combination of techniques, including tinting, waxing and threading.

Your eyebrows are a vital part of your personality. Not only do they frame your face, over 70% of your facial expressions depend on them. And that’s why the right brow shape and colour can take years off you.

BB’S BROW BAR, Unit 26, Westgate Arcade, Peterborough. www.bbsbrowbar.com Tel: 07786 020008

Love doesn’t always last forever so your tattoo shouldn’t have to!

25% OFF BEFORE

AFTER

OUR TREATMENTS ARE:

hair removal in May when you Quote ESP

• Tattoo removal • Hair removal • Facial thread vein removal • Skin rejuvenation • Vascular lesions • Pigment removal • Rosacea treatments We do custom tattooing by Dave – please call for details Opening hours: Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday

Closed 10am-6pm 10am-6pm 10am-6pm

Friday 10am-6pm Saturday 10am-6pm Sunday Closed Late night appointments available

1217 Bourges Boulevard, Peterborough, PE1 2AU Tel: 01733 893020

WHITENING WEDNESDAY What better way to brighten the middle of your week than by brightening your smile.

Every Wednesday in April and May,

ALL whitening treatments are

HALF PRICE! Simply make an appointment on Whitening Wednesday to receive 50% off Enlighten Evolution, Enlighten Ramp or Discuss Nite White.

Visit our website www.thesmileboutique.co.uk for more information or call 01733 551534 to reserve your appointment now!

andy.slater@espmag.co.uk

Andy Slater

The Willow Fest Special One of the biggest social events and spectacular music events hits the city this month, after a nine year hiatus The Willow Festival is back. ESP is right behind it and looking forward to three days of music, beer, music, sunshine and more music on May 25, 26 and 27.

FESTY TIP 2 Take a black bin liner with you and put your rubbish in it and dump it in a bin, go on… be nice.

Another band I am looking forward to is Southern Discomfort, I kinda take a bit of the credit for my old mate Géne getting into rockabilly and hillbilly, a story which goes back to The Six Bells on Lincoln Road. Anyhow, he learned to play upright bass fiddle and the band was formed. What you’ll get with these guys is low down dirty hillbilly country, straight out of the Louisiana scrap yards and railway sidings. Your feet will tap, your mind will wander and you’ll wonder why you never got into this kinda sh*t before! Check ’em out and tell ’em I sent you!

Beautiful Sleazy

Whisky Jax

Aladinsane

Last month I gave you a heads up on some of the bands from around the country that are playing at this free festival on the Embankment, this time it’s the turn of your local heroes to fall under the spotlight and with 120 bands playing you’ll be spoilt for choice.

From punk to jazz from metal to folk you are sure to find something you love over the weekend.

Sure you’ll be able to see the usual bands you see touring the pub circuit like Retrolux, Porky Pig, The Nuggets, The One Eyed Cats and Hooker but look a little harder and you’ll find some real gems to enjoy.

Take the Mississippi Muvvers for example. Not quite obvious from the name but here we have a tribute to one of the greatest bands of all time,

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Filthy Lucre

will a lot of you guys after this set.

Fallen Breaks

The Psycho Bombs are a must if you haven’t seen them; 60’s garage punk at its best. I first bumped into these guys about six years ago, they were one of those bands where you stand and watch ALL their set, you don’t get a bit bored half way through, your attention is held from first to last. I got their album way back when and I still listen to it now. So if you like your 60s hard fast and powerful these guys are for you. I’ll be there!

Lynyrd Skynyrd. Born out of guitarist’ Mirko Munerrati’s obsession with the band and a desire to have a Skynyrd tribute at his 40th, he started his own. The band’s made up of a few One Eyed Cats, Ed Ashby from Grounded, the Tweedy Sisters on backing vocals and, wait for it, the Festival organiser Mark Ringer on keys!

Expect a hefty dose of Now a real name from the past – Junk glorious swamp rock FESTY TIP 1 Puppets – led by my old pal Dave Badger, including Sweet Home who back in the day was just about the Take some loo roll or baby wipes, Alabama and Freebird hardest gigging fan in the city never mind a you may get caught short… blasted out with amps great musician, every gig I went to, there was turned to number 11. I Dave. Anyway, back to the band, I’ve not seen can’t wait for it, I love ’em in an age but expect some balls out psychedelic Lynyrd Skynyrd and I guess so

Bear Makes Ninja

rock played exquisitely by fine musicians who’ll blow you away.

Last I heard Fozzie Dixon was on drums and if he still is it should be quite special…

FESTY TIP 4 Mosquito repellent. I remember back in 2003 I stood on the Embankment at The Willow Festival and as the sun went down it felt like someone was sticking little needles in my arms and neck.

The Nene mozzies are hungry little blighters!

all the hits – Pretty Vacant, EMI, Submission, Holidays and as we’re a week off the diamond Jubilee when The Willow is on, we can all raise our voices to God Save The Queen and be damned with it, what’s the worst that can happen? End up in the Tower? It should be a great set and may I suggest a few union jacks

So, there are a few bands for you to think about as I said earlier there are 120 of them so you should be catered for. Don’t forget the craft stalls the food outlets and the arts tent are also worth a mooch around but moreover, go enjoy, be nice to your fellow festival goer and appreciate the massive amount of work this has taken to put on. If you see me there come and say hello.

FESTY TIP 6 Don’t think you can drink like a fish for 12 hours… that’s my job.

If you like your music to have And finally if it’s a bit rainy or a a more soulful funkier vibe, Hollowtechnic bit grey or a bit whatever, get off Groove Cartel should be right up your idle arse and support it. your sidewalk. As slick as you like Britain’s Got Talent can wait for a when it comes to live performances in the crowd and a few safety pins day, so can the Xbox or whatever you’ll get some classics like Move through nostrils for good measure. keeps you in at the weekend – the On Up by Curtis Mayfield , With Danny team that put this together needs us which if you don’t move Frost on to turn up in our thousands, let’s do to you’re clinically dead FESTY TIP 5 guitar and it! You can even camp… and stuff you won’t know Angus A warm wooly. It gets bloody cold but will love. Led by the Mackman down the Embankment when the honey-voiced Martin on Bass… sun goes down so that t-shirt Fergusson I’m hoping for For all the info go to don’t mind you’re basking in at 2pm ain’t an early evening slot with www.willowfestival.org.uk if I do gonna do squat at 9pm. a warm sun sinking over chaps! the Embankment, sipping a beer and dreaming of New Orleans, take me back boys! It’ll National and international names also be cool to see either Shop Nandi or playing at The Willow Festival include: Nick Smith on bass, both great guys and whichever is not playing can Sam Sallon The Logicals Flutatious Bear Makes Ninja park themselves next to me and Smokescreen Midnight Circus The Fruitful Earth Beautiful Sleazy Soft Tone Needles Neil Cousin Half Infinity Burning Codes share that aforementioned beer.

Finally for me, a bit of Filthy Lucre to get you bouncing up and down like you’re 17 again. A great tribute to the Sex Pistols based in Peterborough, I’ve never had chance to see them… so now I will. Expect

The Daturas The David Goo Variety Band Echoes Of Floyd Evarane Fight The Bear Finn Bonel

The Jar Family Kasandra’s Magic Pylon Band King Kool Late Show Let’s Meet Jesus The Llamas

Never A Hero Offshore Rivers Peachy Farmer Power Surge Roman Vocal And The Wandering Chords.

Roxanne de Bastion

That Sunday Feeling Thumpermonkey Unwanted Tattoo Verax Watermelons Wonderlush

Showaddywaddy

Out of town...

Glastonbudget June 1-3

After five years you’d think I would’ve had enough but no, it’s got to be done.

This year there’s a bit of a change from the norm in so much as I will be dressed as a clown instead of a nun, quite a fitting costume some of you will say. A couple of bands playing that take me back to being a nipper are Showaddywaddy and Sweet, yep the originals not tributes. Yeah, they’ll be old geezers but Ballroom Blitz is Ballroom Blitz and there are still only Three Steps To Heaven and I guarantee they’ll rock the place.

On the tribute front we have everyone from Pearl Jam to T Rex, Madonna to Guns and Roses and The Prodigy to Erasure. You can’t say there isn’t variety, the line-up is fabulous.

I can’t wait to meet up with The Rubber Plants from Northern Ireland, they’re an awesome Led Zep band, probably the best I’ve seen and last time they played you couldn’t get near stage two they’re that good, so if your going check ’em out.

Stage two Sunday should be a nice relaxing day…not! Meatloaf, Nirvana, Foo Fighters and The Prodigy that’s an ear splitting afternoon and evening, where else on the planet do you get it?

Yeah it’s tribute acts but do you know what, when you’re there you don’t give a damn they are that good!

There are also stages for new and upcoming music if you’re puritanical enough to only watch that stuff, definitely worth checking out though.

Fancy dress is optional. I will try and get a clown picture for next month’s issue!

Visit www.glastonbudget.org for all the info and gossip.

Quick line on Bearded Theory – The Levellers have had to pull out because of the fiddle player needing a wrist operation so cousin Sally’s replaced them with Adam And The Ants… Prince Charming should be a blast with all the cider drinks. I can imagine the theatricals as I write mwhuhahahaha!

Visit www.beardedtheory.co.uk for ticket info and details of the amazing line-up.

FOOD REVIEW

LOCAL FOOD

GOODBARNS YARD 64 St Johns Street, Peterborough, PE1 5DD Tel: 01733 313826 It’s great to see a local pub brought back to life and Amanda’s done just that with Goodbarns Yard on St Johns Street. She’s recently taken over and is introducing a new menu with some hearty meals and light snacks. Not only that she’s revived the venue adding a dancefloor – perfect for her weekly entertainment – offers free WiFi and has updated the bar, restaurant and conservatory so that it’s now contemporary, bright and relaxing.

We sat ourselves in the conservatory and awaited a selection of three dishes from the menu recommended

by Amanda, one of them being her own take on Chilli Con Carne. The Ultimate Chilli is her own recipe with lean minced beef combined with spices, chorizo sausage, onions, peppers and two types of beans with an extra kick, served with rice and a fried tortilla and sour cream. I personally love a bit of spice and the flavours from the chorizo really gave it an edge.

Next on the menu was the Ultimate Burger – a quarter pounder beef burger stacked with bacon, chicken breast, onion rings, crunchy lettuce, tomato, cheese and a barbecue sauce served with chips. It looked and tasted fab and is definitely a good choice if you have a healthy appetite, plus the chunky chips were crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside which is always a winner!

The third dish was a new addition to the menu which will be out soon – steak with pepper, onion and mushrooms on top, with a cheese sauce and a side of onion rings and the perfect chunky chips. The steak is cooked to order so you can enjoy it exactly how you like it – ours was nicely pink in the middle and the topping added extra flavour.

FOOD REVIEW

THE KINGS HEAD Kings Cliffe Road Apethorpe, Peterborough, PE8 5DG. Tel: 01780 470627 Right away I knew I’d like this place and I’ll tell you why.

Putting quality of food aside for a moment, there are two things I look for when I eat out. 1. A smile. 2. Consistency.

A bar tender’s smile greeted us upon entering the bar and the waitress was all smiles – she loved her job – throughout the service at our table. As for consistency, well, I’ll be visiting again and I’ve no doubt every aspect of my experience will be a repeat of how good it was first time around.

The Kings Head is located in a classic village setting with a countryside backdrop. It kind of makes you feel warm and

Finally we chose to have the chocolate pudding for our dessert – a warm chocolate sponge with a moorish chocolate sauce served with custard for just £2.49. This didn’t last long on the plate as we both love a bit of chocolate!

Food is served every day, with home cooked roasts on Sunday for just £5.99 and the option to take away anything from the menu. Kids eat half price and on ‘Fab Fridays’, you can have fish and chips for £3.75 which includes bread and butter. The selection of real ales is being added to so you’re guaranteed a good pint! And what’s more, all CAMRA members receive discount.

There’s live music weekly with regular karaoke and discos which you can keep up to date with on the ESP website and gig guide.

All in all we have to say Amanda has really turned this place around, it’s family friendly, offers great food, great drink and plenty of entertainment.

To find out more visit www.thegoodbarns.co.uk or give them a call on 01733 313826.

Lara Johnson

inviting even before you step inside – and once you do it’s all snug and cosy.

Landlord Simon and landlady Charlotte have been at the helm for just under a year and the focus is very much on providing lovingly prepared homemade food at respectable prices.

Before I forget, the desserts are to die for!

The owners aren’t afraid to diversify from their traditional food offering too. I’m told I missed a great Japanese night, although the upcoming (May 24) Indian night where you can tuck into 10 courses for £18.95 and watch a cookery demonstration is in my diary!

Homemade dishes mean no matter what you choose from the menu your taste buds will think Christmas has come early.

Dining at The Kings Head was an excellent experience. The food is prepared with care and it’s tasty. The service was

good and the ambience even better. Simon and Charlotte certainly haven’t seen the last of me.

Pep Cipriano

2 FOR THE PRICE OF 1! at

BEST WESTERN Orton Hall Hotel & Spa The Village Orton Longueville Peterborough PE2 7DN

t: 01733 391 111

For a limited period - From the pub menu main course dishes or Special’s Board - BUY ONE MAIN COURSE AND THE SECOND ONE IS FREE - see terms and conditions on the coupon.

The ESP reader offer is valid when two main courses are ordered. The cheaper main course is free. Max party size 8 persons. Coupon valid till Tuesday 5th June 2012.

To receive your coupon for ‘2 for the price of 1’ 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

Monday Pie Night pie, chips, peas and a pint, £6

Wednesday Curry Night Regular Entertainment Live bands - see ESP Gig Guide. Karaoke, discos and theme nights. Quiz last Tuesday of the month

Freshly prepared food served 12noon - 3pm and 6pm - 9pm every day except Tuesdays, and from 12 noon – 3pm on Sundays.

Celebrate Sunday with your family

Sunday Roast £5.95 – under 5s eat free, one child per adult. (Book in advance and receive 10% off your food bill)

• Hotel rooms available • Functions catered for • Beer garden / play area

21 East Street, Crowland, Peterborough PE6 0EA Tel: 01733 210200 Open from 12 noon, Wed – Mon, and Tues from 2pm

Mon & Tues

FREE dessert with all lunchtime pensioner meals

Sunday Dinner Main meal £5.50 pp 2 courses £7.25 pp

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

Fri 11.30am-2pm • Sunday lunches 12.00-4pm • Function room available for private parties • See Gig Guide for bands

Under new ownership and major refurbishment • Traditional pub menu • Home cooked Sunday lunches served 1-5pm every week £5.99 • New relaxing conservatory area • Fri – Free pool • Live music weekly, see ESP gig guide for listings • 28th April – Reggae night • Karaoke & discos

64 St.Johns Street, Peterborough, PE1 5DD Telephone: 01733 313826

PLOUGH E TH FARCET FEN

WEDNESDAY – THURSDAY – FRIDAY – SATURDAY – SUNDAY EAT FOR £6.00 IN BAR – IN RESTAURANT – IN BEER GARDEN KIDS PLAY AREA OPEN FROM: WEDNESDAY – SATURDAY 5:30 PM SUNDAY 12:00 NOON WHAT’S ON: Once a month on Wednesday – Clairvoyant Night 17th May – 10k Off-road Fun Run 2nd – 4th June – 1940’s Weekend

Please go to our website for further details on all our various events. www.theploughonline.com TEL: 01733 844307 EMAIL: the-plough@hotmail.co.uk MOB: 07763978616 We now cater for Asian and gypsy weddings

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

Karen Devine

AS SEEN ON

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

karen.devine@espmag.co.uk

HEALTHY

EATING with Karen Devine

A PLATEFUL OF COLOUR IN 2012 Natural chemicals in plant foods are known to protect heal and repair our body. Eating a diet high in various colours from plant foods will bring a host of phyto-chemicals (chemicals from plants) which are known to deliver health benefits along with the vitamins, minerals and fibre they also contain.

The ‘rainbow’ assortment from our plant foods bring green, red, white, blue, purple, yellow and orange pigments which deliver these special chemicals to support health.

The sweet potato contains many good nutrients but the focus here is on the main phyto chemical which is the carotenes, (unless it’s the purple variety of course) the darker the orange colour the more carotenes will be found in the potato.

The orange flesh fruits and vegetables can be thought of as the skin glowing nutrients as they bring some good phyto nutrients that help promote healthy skin. There are many of them but this month I want to look further into the sweet potato, not only because I just love it but also to try to get people to eat more of these in place of the normal white potato – not that I am suggesting you ditch your much loved white spud all the time!

cooked and mix into sweet dishes, or add into a smoothie and blend up, chop into wedges and bake in the oven or use as a mash with fish or meat. Basically there are many ways to cook this great food.

Sweet potato unlike the white potato does not belong to the nightshade family of plants, for some people eating nightshades can affect joints and increase inflammation.

In health,

There are many ways to eat a sweet potato, my favourite is chopped cold and eaten in a salad. But you can purée it once

Try it from time to time in place of your normal spud for extra nutrients and colour in your diet!

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

Eating some fat with a sweet potato will help absorb the carotenes which can then be converted to Vitamin A when needed. So you could add some olive oil, flax oil, hemp oil or a little butter to the meal you’re eating. Or eat with some oily fish.

The phyto-chemicals in sweet potatoes may help to –

The storage proteins in sweet potatoes contain high levels of antioxidants which we may also get when we eat the potato.

Reduce inflammation Promote skin and eye health Help prevent Vitamin A deficiency (some carotenoids are known as ‘provitamin A’) Prevention of some cancers May help with female reproduction... and much more.

Sweet potato does not spike the blood sugar as white potato can so it can be helpful in blood sugar regulation.

Traditional warm welcoming atmosphere

• Fully licensed bar and restaurant • Bar opens 12 noon – 12am Karaoke in bar every Friday • Hotel rooms available • Heated smoke shelter

• Function rooms available – Weddings – Christenings – Birthday parties and special occasions • Live entertainment last Saturday of every month

Diamond Jubilee Beer Festival – Friday 1st to Tuesday 5th June.

20 Beers, Ciders & Perries, Live band Friday & Monday, Soul all-dayer Saturday with 9 DJs from midday, Sunday Diamond Jubilee quiz at 8.30pm.

Come and join the fun and celebrate this unique event!

Why not try our new discount card this year?

Pay only £10 and receive a 10% discount off all future drinks and food at the Falcon for the year. Terms and conditions apply.

1 London Street, Whittlesey, Peterborough, PE7 1BH Phone number 01733 351001

Sarah Tempest

sarah.tempest@espmag.co.uk

PERCEPTIVE

The 70s were a colourful Time

If I did manage to get my hands on the controls of the TARDIS, the first place I’d go is Peterborough in 1972.

Peterborough featured heavily in the BBC’s recent programme The 70s as it was a boom time for our city with thousands of families from London relocating here to take advantage of the new and exciting housing developments.

Some of our estates may look a bit dated now but back then they were new, shiny and extremely desirable; the programme made me want to hot foot it back immediately and move in. And the décor! Wow, the 70s may have been the decade that taste forgot but I just loved sneaking a look back. In fact, I’ve just redecorated our bedroom and spent a fortune on tester pots trying to find just the right shade of white – maybe I should’ve just taken a leaf out of a 70s Peterborian’s book and gone for mouldy orange and mustard. Lovely!

IT’S AN OLYMPIC EFFORT TO GET EXCITED So we’re officially a hop, a skip and a jump on the last furlong towards the start of the London 2012 Olympic Games and the excitement, it seems, is mounting everywhere. Everywhere, that is except Chez Tempest; I don’t know what it is but I just can’t get worked up about it.

Yes I accept it’s good for the country and yes I certainly want Team GB to do well (especially Louis Smith, the pride of Peterborough!) but I can’t escape the feeling that there’s a massive party happening and I’ve not been invited. I couldn’t afford tickets even if I’d wanted them and apart from the Olympic torch coming to the city on July 3, there aren’t any events happening near us so, like previo us years, I’ll be watching it on the telly. It may as well be in China again.

But the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, on the other hand, is an event I can’t wait for. I’m no Royalist but last year’s Royal Wedding was such a brilliant day that I can’t wait for the extra day off, the getting together, the street parties and the huge Gary Barlow organ ised Jubilee concert. My little boy is even taking part in a parad e with his nursery – I’m beside myself! Mind you, when Mr T heard that the theme of the parade was ‘Kings and Queens’, he was all set to dress our boy up as either Julian Clary or Elvis. The sense of pomp and ceremony and Britishness has clearly been lost on him somew here.

HEART BREAKING AND BACK BREAKING NEWS Sad news that the Peterborough ET is set to change from being a daily publication to a weekly.

Yes I know they say it will be a ‘bumper’ edition but a local daily evening paper is an institution and I’ll be sad to break with tradition. And I feel sorry for anyone who may lose their jobs as a result of it, not to mention the poor paper boys and girls who’ve got to deliver this new weekly bumper edition.

I hope they’ve got the number of a good osteopath.

TORCHWOOD AT LYNCHWOOD It takes a lot to admit you’re not cool but at one time my Dr Who and Torchwoo d obsession was so bad that I was think ing of joining Geeks Anonymous. OK so it may have had more to do with my wors hip of David Tennant and wasted affection for John Barrowman than appreciation of the Sontarans (phallic shaped aliens) but it’s an obsession nonetheless. So imagine how beside myself I am at hearing that not only are the supporting cast of Torchwoo d coming to Peterborough Arena at the Showground on the weekend of May 12 and 13 for The Greatest Show in the Galaxy, but they’re being joined by Captain Jack Harkness himself, John Barro wman!

What an event it promises to be, a fest of all things TARDIS, Sci-Fi, and a chan ce for fans to snap up memorabilia. I migh t leave the bidding alone – much as I’d love to get my hands on Gwen’s leather jacke t or Tosh’s glasses, knowing my luck I’d end up with cricket-white-wearing sixth Dr Who Colin Baker’s box.

IT’S A DOG’S LIFE Dobbies garden centre at Hampton has launched a new line – doggy ice cream.

And yes, it does what it says on the tin – it’s ice cream, for dogs.

I laughed my socks off when I heard, with visions of thousands of Labradors and Terriers queuing patiently for a Winalot 99 or a Chum cornet but it turns out that the new Billy & Margot iced treat comes in flavours such as strawberry and apple, and apple, bana na and carrot, with all ingredients suitable for a dog’s digestion.

They sound amazing! Now if ever they devel op a canine chocolate flavour, I’ll know for definite what I want to be reincarnated as. Woof woof!

Balfour Law have an excellent reputation built up by their team of expert personal injury lawyers who will deal with your case, rather than a ‘claims handler’ (who is often unqualified) and they always make themselves available to chat through any worries.

Naina Tilney, the friendly face of local law

It’s not just actors who ‘break a leg’ at work… Balfour Law are here to make sure you do have a leg to stand on when it comes to claiming for accidents at work.

Accidents do happen and although your employer has a responsibility to protect you disaster can still strike and suddenly your life’s turned upside down.

If you end up in a position where you simply can’t work because of an injury and don’t receive any income during a period of absence, inevitably you’ll feel the pinch. You might feel uncomfortable about claiming against your employer,

• Wed quiz night 8.30pm • Friday night karaoke 8.30pm

especially if you’ve enjoyed your job, but the team at Balfour Law deal with claims in a sympathetic manner so they don’t ruffle any feathers. As a result their clients often continue to work for the same employer as the claim’s dealt with by them via the employer’s insurers.

“Compensation claims are designed to help people recover losses and to gain a monetary award for pain and suffering where injury is caused by the negligence of another party,” explains Naina Tilney, managing director at Balfour Law. “You’ll be able to receive compensation for injuries sustained in an accident at work if we’re able to prove that the accident happened because someone other than you was negligent.”

Their experienced team can deal with all sorts of accidents at work ranging from workplace trips and slips through to more serious injuries, and problems caused by defective work equipment through to inadequate training.

Sky Sports 3D • Carlsberg £1.99 a pint during football games

Atherstone Avenue, Netherton, Peterborough PE3 9TT Tel: 01733 263801

When something like this happens it’s a lot to cope with – not just the injury itself and recovery period but worries about money and the future so Naina says they’re reassuring approach makes all the difference – “Our team is friendly and approachable. We will assess your claim for free and give realistic advice as to your prospects of success. We won’t waste your time.”

Balfour Law act under a ‘no win no fee’ system which means that if you lose you don’t have to pay anything. If you win, they will attempt to recover their fees from the losing party. This means that you keep 100% of the compensation awarded to you and instructing Balfour Law Solicitors will cost you absolutely nothing.

“We specialise in high value cases but no case is too big or too small for us to take on,” says Naina. “In the last 12 months we’ve achieved excellent outcomes for our clients.”

Call into Balfour Law, 1110 Lincoln Road, Peterborough call 01733 324444 for a free consultation with an expert you can rely on.

Gavin Miller

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

gavin.miller@espmag.co.uk

AMERICAN PIE: REUNION

THE LUCKY ONE

DARK SHADOWS

THE DICTATOR

WHAT TO EXPECT…

Released: May 2

Released: May 2

Released: May 11

Released: May 16

Released: May 23

After some of them opted out of The Wedding, lack of serious work means they’re all back for another major cash-in. Jim (Jason Biggs), Michelle (Alyson Hannigan) – who’ve had a baby together – Stifler (Seann William Scott) and co, do what the Scream gang did last year (also to fairly lukewarm reviews) by returning for their high school reunion.

Heartthrob Zac Efron continues his attempts to eek out a career as a viable Hollywood leading man by starring in this love story from the author of The Notebook and Dear John. He stars as a US marine sergeant who returns from his third tour in Iraq to look for an unknown woman who he credits with keeping him alive – after he found a photograph of her.

This is the latest trademark darktinged blockbuster collaboration between the A-list actor and director duo of Johnny Depp and Tim Burton – also including Burton’s partner Helena Bonham Carter. Rich and powerful playboy Barnabas (Depp) has the world at his feet until he is buried alive by a witch (Eva Green) and returns centuries later with his grand estate in ruins.

Brit star Sacha Baron Cohen takes on another possibly cringeworthy project – that could well eschew the boundaries of bad taste once again – as he adds another character to his CV that already boasts Bruno and Borat. This time he stars in this ‘heroic’ story of a dictator who risks his life to make sure democracy never comes to the country he so lovingly oppressed.

… When You’re Expecting – to give this rom-com its full title.

Cameron Diaz, Jennifer Lopez and Elizabeth Banks are mums-to-be as the film traces the trials and tribulations of five interconnecting couples on the road to parenthood – with the ultimate message of whatever you plan for, life doesn’t always deliver what you expect.

With Chris Rock and Dennis Quaid.

FILM REVIEW

AVENGERS ASSEMBLE (12A) Running Time: 2hrs 20mins I definitely entered this one with a touch of trepidation.

With so many superheroes to cater for – how on earth were they going to appease everyone?

Fortunately my fears were allayed as acclaimed director Joss Whedon (the man behind the likes of Alias and Firefly) has done a top-notch job in providing an epic – if a little flawed – summer blockbuster.

The film is pretty much a game of two halves, the first two-thirds is a decent three-star movie providing the difficult origin story of how The Avengers meet up via Nick Fury’s (Samuel L Jackson’s) SHIELD – but it’s the action-packed last half an hour or so that turns it into a fivestar finale that makes the film.

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The set up sees Loki (Tom Hiddleston) snag the invaluable energy source the ‘Tesseract’ cosmic cube from earth-defending organisation SHIELD – which already boasts Black Widow (Scarlett Johansson) and Hawkeye (Jeremy Renner) – leading to Fury trying to piece together an ensemble of superheroes including Iron Man (Robert Downey Jr), Captain America (Chris Evans), Thor (Chris Hemsworth) and The Hulk (Mark Ruffalo).

After a slow-paced first part, which could leave non-fans slightly underwhelmed, interspersed with in-fighting and back story, it really does shine as soon as the Hulk is unleashed… and he arguably steals the show.

The film gets a bit messy when Loki’s army invades from the outer reaches of space as he aims to conquer the world, but Whedon does well to gel it together with some great action set-pieces and comedy touches to keep it the right side of chaotic – and provides a thoroughly enjoyable thick slice of entertainment.

Downey Jr is exuberantly impressive once again, Ruffalo is the best Bruce Banner yet, and everyone else does what’s expected (notching roughly equal screen time) with arguably Brit actor Hiddleston being the acting pick.

But whatever your reservations, when it comes down to it this is a fan’s dream and there’s nothing like watching Cap’s shield whizz across the screen, Thor’s hammer wield lightning and Hawkeye provide pinpoint accuracy with bow and arrow.

As for The Hulk, it looks like Marvel has finally got it right, and in the words of Captain America as he delivers The Avengers team speech: “Hulk… smash!”

Just as Whedon has pretty much smashed it with this impressive – though not quite amazing – first Avengers effort. ####

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

Movie Previews

MEN IN BLACK 3D Released: May 25 Cast: Will Smith, Tommy Lee Jones, Josh Brolin Director: Barry Sonnenfeld With the temptation to add a ‘D’ on the end of the title to cash in on the current cinema fad – a third film in the franchise was inevitable.

After the success of the original, the second film (even though it still got the box office tills ringing) was a bit of a critical dud – and this seemed to be heading that way after reported production problems were remedied to get the film up to scratch. But there’s no denying the likeability factor of lead man Will Smith as a financial draw, as his Agent J aims to stop an alien assassinating his friend Agent K (Tommy Lee Jones) – by travelling back to MIB’s early years in the sixties where a younger version of K (Josh Brolin) exists.

Let’s just hope Smith doesn’t release another bloomin’ song for it…

KINECT: STAR WARS (360) Out now From the moment this was announced an army of Jedi-wannabes have been salivating at the prospect of re-enacting their Star Wars fantasies.

Sadly for the hardcore fans among us, Kinect: Star Wars is more Jar Jar Binks than Darth Vader – primarily offering a set of mini-games geared at younger kids.

It does offer a Clone Wars-set campaign, but with fiddly hit-and-miss controls, rank-bad voice-acting (Yoda and C3-PO are the stand-outs) and the embarrassment of watching Han Solo jive for his life in Galactic Dance Off mode – this needs more than ‘the force’.

While Podracing saves this from becoming Bantha-fodder – this is a disappointing waste of the license.

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TIGER WOODS PGA TOUR 13 (360/PS3) Out now

For years a Tiger Woods release was considered gaming royalty – but a drastic makeover has rendered this version the tamest in the franchise's recent history.

Of the new features thrown in, Total Swing System is the most immediately apparent, with shot-making and putting now more realistic – and indeed difficult – then ever before.

That isn’t helped by the gimmicky addition of Kinect and Move for 360 and PS3 owners – which renders shots nigh-on impossible to control – but if you’re a fan there’s still enjoyment to be had, particularly with career mode.

Overall though, the series – much like Tiger's own career – has seen better days.

#####

KINECT RUSH: A DISNEY / PIXAR ADVENTURE (360) Out now The third in our trio of Kinect-inspired games is actually inspired by one of the better games on the device – last year’s impressive Disneyland Adventures.

Again, you control your character around a Disney-influenced world, this time based on a Pixar park connecting popular films like (the obvious) Toy Story, Cars and (the less so) Ratatouille, undertaking multiple mini-game quests.

I recently caught up with Robert Downey Jr (Iron Man), Scarlett Johansson (Black Widow) and the rest of the Avengers Assemble cast at the press conference at the world-famous Claridge’s Hotel in London…

I can’t deny it was a ‘fanboy’ dream.

Being brought up on the likes of Star Wars and comic-books, I managed to hobnob with the stars of Marvel’s latest blockbuster franchise at the Avengers Assemble press conference.

If having seen the film a week before release at the Vue Cinema in the West End wasn’t enough, getting a prime spot at the press conference moderated by TV and radio presenter Edith Bowman made sure I met all of the film superheroes in one fell swoop.

Even though two other stars of the film who couldn’t attend – Chris Evans (Captain America) and Samuel L Jackson (Nick Fury) – I’d met them at the Fantastic Four 2 and Jackie Brown conferences previously, giving me a 100% tick list on the Avengers Assemble cast.

Even though I’d done plenty of press conferences before, this was by far the largest – boasting 170 journalists from around the world – having reporters from Switzerland and Israel either side of me, to magnify the size of Disney’s superhero ensemble.

Whether it was Downey Jr being the epitome of cool, Johansson a picture of elegance or Chris Hemsworth and Jeremy Renner providing some comedic quips this proved they were all on the same page when it came to this groundbreaking franchise.

It was left to Mark Ruffalo – who starred as my favourite superhero of all-time in The Hulk – to provide the perfect parting shot as he explained how he became the first person to star as both Bruce Banner and the big green monster via motion-capture and computer-generated special effects.

Fantastic stuff indeed… and one I’ll never forget.

#####

TWISTED METAL (PS3) Out now One game that deserves plaudits for at least offering something a bit different is this latest incarnation of the Twisted Metal franchise – previously seen on the PS1.

Not to be confused with the ‘Black’ sub-titled shooter series, this does what it says on the tin extremely well, offering crazy car combat – ramped with high-powered weaponry – as three demented drivers (the infamous Sweet Tooth, Mr Grimm and Doll Face) form gangs to wreak havoc across the neighbourhood.

It does lack single-player longevity, but for multiplayer arcade action this is great fun that deserves recognition.

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THE WITCHER 2 (360/PS3/PC) Out now With more than four hours added to an already top-notch title, hit PC role-playing fantasy The Witcher 2 finally gets a console outing.

With mature themes, gore galore and womanising prominent, this is very much the evil twin of the likes of Skyrim – and breaks a number of stereotypes in a crowded genre.

As a half-breed monster, impressive swordplay, magic-based combat system and gorgeous graphics heighten the meaty campaign experience.

This helps make it one of the richer RPG experiences in recent years.

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SILENT HILL HD COLLECTION (PS3/360/PC) Out now

As ever these HD re-releases of classic games are hard-ones to judge.

This graphically-improved package of the second and third Silent Hill games still convey those hauntingly eerie adventure qualities that made them so popular ten years or so ago – Alan Wake is probably the closest next-gen comparison – but confusing objectives, bizarre puzzles and a clunky combat system probably won’t entice newbies.

Those wanting scares in the fogginess of this freaky town once again won’t be disappointed though – this is still a worthy trip to old school gaming gold.

#####

Thanks to Andy Clucas for reviewing Kinect: Star Wars, Tiger Woods PGA Tour 13 & The Witcher 2 this month.

AVENGERS ASSEMBLE SPECIAL

Despite the Kinect’s responsiveness intermittently rearing its ugly head, if you’ve got kids that are fans of the films this is noteworthy fare – but doesn’t exactly take you to ‘infinity and beyond.’

Matt Zilch

matt.zilch@espmag.co.uk

Stamford CALLING

Matty Speaks...

Well after three and a half years I’m hanging up my Stamford Calling boots and having some time out from writing my column. I’ve loved writing about the goings on in my home town and will miss it very much! But like all good things they have to end. I’d like to say a massive thank you to all the ESP staff and a special thank you to Sharon McAllister and Andy Slater for picking me for this column, I’ve had a wonderful time and it’s been a pleasure for me to bring you all the gossip, gigs, parties, new openings and festivals from Stamford!

EAGLES TRIBUTE FLIES INTO CORN EXCHANGE Eagles fans get the full treatment from Desperado when they bring their Eagles tribute show to the Stamford Corn Exchange on Saturday June 2. The Very Best of Eagles double album achieved triple platinum status in 2004 following its 2003 release becoming the definitive Eagles collection. Desperado faithfully recreate this magnificent catalogue live with their 2012 show, treating all the songs with the reverence and authenticity Eagles’ fans deserve. So get ready to soak up some unforgettable, Californian sunshine rock. Tickets are £16, on 01780 766455.

LIZ’S LIVE NIGHTS There are some key nights happening this month at Mama Liz’s Voodoo Lounge, starting off on Friday May 4 when Voodoo Rockahula presents a night dedicated to the music and style of The Cramps with Voodoo Hit Squad, a garage / pysch / surf outfit from Kings Lynn with shimmering Fender guitars and Twangy Gretschs played along to a Voodoo backbeat. Reminiscent of, and heavily influenced by The Cramps and Satan's Pilgrims.

READY TO RACE FOR LIFE GIRLS? Are you ready Stamford? It’s time to join the Race For Life and get jogging – or walking – at Burghley park.

Guys you should be there to support your girls too on Sunday May 13.

I’ve been along to support my family many times and it’s a great atmosphere down there but more entrants are needed and there’s not long to go. Cancer Research UK’s Race For Life in partnership with Tesco is an amazing women-only series of events which raises millions of pounds every year for life-saving research into 200 types of cancer – helping men, women and children across the East of England survive.

Next up it’s The Candle Thieves live on Friday May 11, the guys say – “Deep thinkers can lose themselves here in gentle, poppy pleasures, and enjoy soft-hearted sentiments with sinister undertows!” Sounds good.

Women and girls of all ages, shapes and sizes are needed and despite the title, it’s not a race, you can take on 5k or 10k at whatever pace you like girls!

Then on Monday June 4 No Country For Old Men Promotions proudly present... Bob Wayne and the Outlaw Carnies supported by OldBoy and Southern Discomfort! They’ve been trying to book him for ages and have finally cracked it so don’t miss out on a raucous night of outlaw country at is very best all the way from the good ol’ USA.

To join Stamford versus cancer, enter Race For Life at www.raceforlife.org or call 0871 641 1111.

GET YOUR RIVERSIDE TICKETS NOW! The Riverside Festival is just around the corner and I can’t wait… but I better get my tickets, and so should you!

Competition are Welsh Hip Hop duo Major Triadz who beat 47 other artists in the competition to secure their spot.

This year it’s ticket only and numbers are strictly limited so there’ll be some pretty disappointed festival fans out there on Saturday July 7 if you don’t act quickly. They’re on sale now at just a fiver in advance or £3 for kids (under fives go free). There’ll be more on the day but there might not be any left folks!

There’ll be three main stages, a busker stage and other entertainment, food and craft stalls, a funfair and an amazing firework finale… that’s got to be worth a fiver of your hard earned cash surely?

Although the headline act hadn’t quite been pinned down as I write, I can reveal the great names lined up for the Marquee Stage include a mix of national and home-grown talent – New Generation Superstars, Chasing Dragons, Black Marias, Black Hawk Down, Burn City Burn, A Story To Tell, The Infernal Sea, In Archives and Kamikaze Hotshot.

There’s a surprise on the Riverside stage as the winners of this year’s Road To Riverside

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It’s been a battle but it’s great to see the Riverside return and if you want to play your part in its survival they’re in need of volunteers.

They’re looking for people who can offer a minimum of four hours of their time – without volunteers this not for profit event simply wouldn’t happen so, the Riverside needs you!

You can buy tickets at Stamford Arts Centre or to find out more about the event or volunteering visit www.riversidefestival.co.uk, call Jenny Collins on 01778 343337 or e-mail jennycollins10@aol.com.

COMPETITION

Email voodoolounge@mamaliz.co.uk or call 01780 765888 or go to We Got Tickets to buy online.

WIN RIVERSIDE FESTIVAL TICKETS If you don’t buy your tickets now you could miss out on this year’s Riverside Festival in Stamford on Saturday July 7 but ESP has five pairs of tickets up for grabs!

Just text or email us the word RIVERSIDE along with your name, address and contact number and we’ll see whose name we draw out of the hat.

Usual competition rues apply, entries must be in by 31/05/12, winners will be notified.

TEXT HOTLINE

07762 147679

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

PUB GUIDE News DIAMOND JUBILEE BEER FEST @ THE FALCON HOTEL From June 1 – 5 the Falcon Hotel in Whittlesey will be celebrating the Diamond Jubilee by holding a beer festival over several days. There’ll be 20 beers, ciders and perries, live music on the Friday and Monday, a Soul all-dayer on the Saturday with nine DJs from midday, and on the Sunday there’ll be a Diamond Jubilee quiz at 8.30pm. Don’t miss out on the fun and celebrate this unique event!

Call 01733 351001 for more details.

EVENTS @ THE PLOUGH The Plough in Farcet Fen has a long list of events planned throughout the year, with a monthly Clairvoyant Night which is held on a Wednesday at 7.30pm. On May 17 there’s a 10K off-road fun run – to apply contact The Plough direct on 01733 844307 or visit www.theploughonline.com or email the-plough@hotmail.co.uk. On June 2 – 4 it’s a 1940s weekend – take a step back in time and celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee in style with re-enactors, live big bands, a flypast, stalls, fashion shows a tea dance and more!

The Vine • Under new management • Home cooked traditional food • Sunday lunches • Choice of 4 real ales • Beer garden front & back • Small private functions catered for 4 South Green, Coates, Peterborough PE7 2BJ Tel: 01733 840343

The Ploughman • Camra Pub of the Year 2011 • Oakademy of excellence accredited pub • Sky Sports • Happy hour Mon – Fri, 5 ‘til 7pm • Live entertainment – see ESP Gig Guide • Karaoke every Sunday with Mighty Mouth Trev • Outside bar available • Function room for hire at reasonable prices • Join our Facebook group The Ploughman

Staniland Way, Werrington Tel: 01733 327696

The Three Horseshoes • Full Sky Sports package, HD 3D TVs • 3 Real Ales – hand pumps • Live entertainment, check ESP Gig Guide • Facebook – Three Horseshoes Werrington Village

Church Street, Werrington Village, PE4 6QE Tel: 01733 571768 www.threehorseshoes-werrington.co.uk

Bluebell (DOGSTHORPE)

Late Bar and Venue

• Under new management • Live music - check ESP Gig Guide • Home cooked food served Mon–Sat 11am – 4pm, Sun 1pm – 5pm.

• Sky + Espn • Real Ales • Quiz Night Sunday • FREE pool on Mondays • Cambridge £2.70 and Fosters £3 during Premiership Football • Wakes and Christenings – function room available.

• Disco / Karaoke (contact us for details)

• Open Thu-Fri and Sat 8pm-3am • Live music – see ESP Gig Guide • Venue free to hire

St Pauls Road, Dogsthorpe Tel: 01733 554890

2 Abbey Road, Bourne, PE10 9EF Tel: 01778 393644

The Dragon

The Boro Bar

• Weekly Live Music (see Gig Guide) • Live Sports (showing all major premiership/championship games) • 6 Real Ale hand pumps • Darts – Poker – Pool – Crib • Cash quiz every Sunday • Join our new facebook site – dragon,werrington Hodgson Avenue, Werrington Tel: 01733 578088

• LIVE music • Karaoke • Live Sports on Jumbo screens • Real Ales • Pool, Darts and Poker

Lime Tree

Addison Arms

• 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

• Full home cooked lunch and evening menu • Sunday Lunches • Real Ales • Quiz on Sunday nights • Extensive Beer Garden • In The Good Beer Guide 2012

Paston Lane, Walton Tel: 01733 708320

(Terms and Conditions apply)

• Private hire for all occasions • Facebook:Thelatebarvenue

• FREE FUNCTION ROOM HIRE

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keith.dalton@espmag.co.uk

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

I popped into The Golden Fleece the other Saturday and caught part of a fine gig by The Pulse – great variety in their playlist. On a warm Saturday evening, The Fleece, in The Sheep Market in Stamford is a beautiful setting for a couple of beers and some rock.

And finally… well done to Peterborough singer song-writer Murray Hockridge for putting in a great performance on BBC’s The Voice. It’s great to see yet more Peterborough talent on the box!

Photo: Ellen Jackson

It’s nearly there. It’s been building up for months and now the end of May sees the long awaited return of The Willow Festival. Like a lot of people I remember the great atmosphere of TWF and have looked forward to its return to the social scene in Peterborough. This year there’ll be over 120 live bands appearing over the three days of May 25, 26 and 27 on the Peterborough Embankment, including local bands The Nuggets, Aladdinsane, The Gangsters, Hooker, Southern Discomfort and The Fleeting Minds and it’s all FREE and blessed by the city council. ESP has been right behind the event and you can see Andy Slater’s full coverage on pages 32 and 33 which contain details of what promises to be a great weekend.

When she was competing for the coveted title at the end of last year, Face of ESP, Jess Lockhart, said that she wanted one of her projects to be to organise some of her own charity events as well as supporting others during her year as The Face. Her first is about to take place and it’s aimed

at raising funds for Help For Heroes – a very popular cause. It’s on Saturday June 2, at The Manor Leisure Centre in Whittlesey.

Jess is pretty excited about the evening which starts at 8pm, because she’s secured the services of one of the area’s top bands, Whisky Jax, who’ll be making an all too rare local appearance. These guys play a catchy electro pop set and brought in 2012 at the New Year’s Eve

celebrations on Cathedral Square. Their new single No Stopping – which has been picked up by the Jack Wills clothing company for their online promotions – will be released next month on V2 records. Support comes from local singer Kayann Hill.

Tickets are just a fiver from the Manor Leisure Centre or call Jessica on 07977 131498.

Those who went to Charters Easter Beer Fest may have seen Amplified – the young band who’ve now made it through the preliminary contests and are in the final stages of the Live & Unsigned competition. They perform in the Midlands Regional Final at Bedford Corn Exchange on Sunday May 13 – if they get through that, then they'll be playing at the O2 in the finals!

No, it’s not a typo! It’s the name of the music festival taking place at The Angel Inn in Yarwell on Bank Holiday weekend (Saturday May 5 and Sunday May 6) and aims to raise funds for Everyman – the UK’s leading prostate and testicular cancer charity. It’s based on the Knebworth Festival terminology – hence the name Knobworth.

Live music during the two days will come from The Conspiracy Club, The Collaborators, Animal Instinct, 101 Proof, Let There B/DC, Hannah Joyce, Mullered at The Mill, The Helix, Glass Heart and Sellout plus the BBQ will be fired up and there’s a great variety of guest beers and ciders.

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Around 10,000 acts entered originally, and Amplified qualified, then got through and were up against some 40 other acts at Easter. The voting comes from audience opinion mixed with the views of a music industry judging panel. The Bedford stage entails Amplified now having to write an original song.

The prize is valuable to an up-and-coming band consisting of funding for development, publicity and the promise of festival gigs around Europe. So we wish them success.

Amplified are: Liam Stone (13), Joe Schollar (13), Bradley Caston (13) and Michael Firko (15)

You have a rare chance to see a unique performer visiting Peterborough on Friday May 11.

This is when Joe Driscoll appears at JD’s Bar & Grill in Park Road. Joe is originally from New York but has spent a number of years this side of the Atlantic. A blend of musician and beatboxer, Joe is one of the leading exponents of the loop pedal which he uses to layer both guitar riffs and oral percussion to produce some fabulous sounds. One of the tracks from his latest album, Mixtape Champs, has been used by Nokia for their N8 phone TV advert – ‘It’s not technology, its what you do with it’.

Joe’s admirers include Cee-Lo-Green and De La Soul.

For the performance at JD’s (formerly The Park) Joe is supported by local guys Opaque.

Our friends at the Stamford Corn Exchange believe in bringing the area some wonderful contrasts in shows for the venue. They’ve excelled themselves on Sunday May 27, when Hawkwind visit for a gig. The legendary space rockers have been on the road for over 40 years, and they visit Stamford as part of the promo tour for their latest album, Onwards.

Their live shows are described as a psychedelic dream, so that could be a new experience for the Corn Exchange when the Silver Machine visit Stamford.

Tickets from 01780 766455 or www.stamford-corn-exchange.co.uk

Rock and blues band The Influence are back gigging again after the untimely death of their vocalist Bob Banks last November.

As previously revealed in ESP the band thought long and hard about re-forming but thought Bob would’ve wanted them to carry on. All the band members have been friends and musicians for many years and have played together in bands such as Spiders and TUT.

Photos: BBC Pictures / Wall to Wall

It’s been fantastic to see yet more Peterborough talent highlighted on TV with musician Murray Hockridge the latest to grace our screens on BBC One’s new talent show The Voice.

The show’s been rocking the ratings and when Murray was picked by The Script’s Danny O’Donoghue to join his team we suspect his Peterborough fans were jumping off their sofas!

Although he was knocked out during the battles stages the programme’s still given him valuable exposure.

Murray’s a popular guy it seems, he’s well known and respected on the local music circuit and if you’ve been at gigs, festivals, weddings and even the odd restaurant you’ll most likely have seen him (in a variety of hats!) strumming his faithful guitar, singing along with that gorgeous voice of his. He’s played at the wedding of Kerry Bates and Chris Whelpdale (former Face of ESP and former Posh player) as well as that of ESP’s music writer Andy Slater, so it’s fair to say he’s a performer close to our hearts.

We already know this former Jack Hunt school boy is a talented guy but with so many competitions around why did he wait so long and eventually choose The Voice?

Photo: Mike Harris

“People have said to me over the years ‘you should do X Factor’ and other shows but I didn’t like the philosophy behind them,” explained Murray. “Those shows very much ridicule in a lot of cases. It just put me off the concept more than anything.

“The thing that attracted me here was that the BBC was behind it, the fact they sell it all on the voice and really just curiosity. It was one of those moments in time when I had a window and I thought, timing is everything, the show’s coming up I’ll have a look!”

The line up is: Nik Willerton on vocals and Karl Dovkants on bass joining Steve Boyd, lead guitarist and Andy Cox on drums and the band are ready to rock on their first dates at The Dragon in Werrington on Friday May 11 and Saturday May 12 at The Golden Fleece in Stamford.

Good luck guys – nice to have you back.

“I think Danny’s great. He’s a very outgoing guy; his taste is across the board from soul to rock, as is mine, so there was a lot of chemistry.”

Murray’s an accomplished all round musician, producer and songwriter and is hoping his appearances on the show will help keep him in the industry he loves.

“I don’t think these competitions are necessarily set up for someone like me, I think it’s a case of going on and trying to put your own stamp on it as much as you can while you’re there and using the window to be seen. It’s not easy to because you have to follow the rules and it’s not like when you do your own gigs, but it’s undoubtedly huge exposure and you go for it 100%, as long as you can, and take what you can from it.”

We were all disappointed not to see him go further in the show but Murray’s determined to make the most of it.

“I honestly, honestly do not crave huge fame and success,” Murray revealed. “I’ve been in the industry a long time and my motivation is to be able to stay in the business which is my skill. It’s not an easy business to be in, even if you’re successful it’s not, because you’re only as good as your last album, tour or gig. For me I still very much like the intimate gigs with 150 people who’re really interested in what I’m doing.

“I’ve got a nine month old daughter now who’s the apple of my eye, she really is fabulous. That’s the real stuff for me, I’m very family orientated and fame – I’m genuinely not seeking it. I’m in this for real at whatever level I can do.”

If you haven’t seen him already, make sure you catch Murray at his local gigs – we still reckon he’s got The Voice! www.murrayhockridge.com

With legends like Tom Jones on the judging panel was he happy he ended up in Team Danny? www.espmag.co.uk

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GUIDE

WED APR 25

CUTTIN' LOOSE

SUE ASHTON + NIGEL PORTASS BAND

The Carpenters Arms Boston

The Granary Long Sutton

The Prince Of Wales Feathers Castor

THU APR 26

GLASS HEART

GRUMPY BIG 10 SKA BAND OLD MEN The Late Bar & Venue Bourne

The Cock Inn Werrington

OPEN MIC NIGHT HALO

CRAMPS TRIBUTE

Mama Liz's Voodoo Lounge Stamford

CRASH 'N' BURN The Bluebell Glinton

CUTTIN' LOOSE The Mason's Arms Bourne

LEON

The Cherry Tree Oundle Road

The Swiss Cottage Woodston

The Fayre Spot Bretton

FRI APR 27

HOLLOW BODIES

LLOYD WATSON

BEGUILED

The Abbey Hotel Crowland

The Boro Bar Oundle Road

LEON

RETROLUX

The Dragon Werrington

The Cherry Tree Oundle Road

ONE EYED CATS

SHAMELESS

GUNS & ROSES EXPERIENCE

The Bell Market Deeping

Turpins Bar Long Sutton

The Granary Long Sutton

PANDORA'S BOX

THE LITTLE DAVE BAND

The Cherry Tree Oundle Road

CRASH 'N' BURN The Cock Inn Werrington

IGNITION Goodbarns Yard St Johns Street

KICKBACK

The Cherry Tree Oundle Road

REGGAE NIGHT Goodbarns Yard St Johns Street

The Burghley Square Club Burghley Road

THE RAINMEN The Cock Inn Werrington

SLIDE TO OPEN

The Three Horseshoes Werrington

THE NUGGETS The Dragon Werrington

TWENTY 4 The Boro Bar Oundle Road

ON THE CEILING The Ploughman Werrington Quinns Club Whittlesey

PROUD MARY + THE FLEETING MINDS + OFFSHORE RIVERS

EYES WIDE OPEN

LIVE BAND

FRIXION

The Bluebell Inn Dogsthorpe

The Swiss Cottage Woodston

The Bluebell Inn Dogsthorpe

MURRAY HOCKRIDGE

GLASS HEART

FRANKLY MY DEAR

THE ATLANTICS The Late Bar & Venue Bourne

THE LITTLE DAVE BAND The Stage Market Deeping

Mama Liz's Voodoo Lounge Stamford

RETROLUX Charters Town Bridge

THE GUARDS O'Neills Broadway

THE REPLICAS The Brewery Tap Westgate

TWENTY 4 The Cross Keys Oundle Road

SAT APR 28 ADHOCK The Ruddy Duck Peakirk

AMPLIFIED The Woolpack Stanground

THE RETURNS

CRASH 'N' BURN

THE JAZZ PIDGINS

The Fenman Whittlesey

101 PROOF

TUE MAY 1 OPEN ACOUSTIC SESSION The Millstone Inn Barnack

THU MAY 3 CRASH 'N' BURN

JIM HOUSE The Bluebell Inn Dogsthorpe

The Swiss Cottage Woodston

ONE EYED CATS The Prince Of Wales Feathers Castor

PULSE

RIFF RAFF The Boro Bar Oundle Road

THE GHOST REPEATERS The Angel Inn Yarwell

THE INFLUENCE The Golden Fleece

Mama Liz's Voodoo Lounge Stamford

FRI MAY 4

The Birds Spalding

101 PROOF

LET THERE B/DC

The Swiss Cottage Woodston

The Angel Inn Yarwell

BURLESQUE

LLOYD WATSON

The Bluebell Inn Dogsthorpe

The Cherry Tree Oundle Road

CITIZEN SMITH

ROCKET 57

The Ploughman Werrington

The Swiss Cottage Woodston

UNDERCOVER The Bluebell Inn Dogsthorpe

ZEB ROOTZ The Granary Long Sutton

MIND THE GAP Charters, Town Bridge

The Granary Long Sutton

DANIEL LAND & THE MODERN PAINTERS + SUPPORT

THE NUGGETS (3PM) The Willow Festival Embankment

WED MAY 30 SUE ASHTON + NIGEL PORTASS BAND

ROCKIN' THE JOINT

DR. A'S RHYTHM & GROOVES

The Granary Long Sutton

The Braza Club March

The Cock Inn Werrington

FRI JUN 1

WHERE'S THE DOG

HOOKER

The Cock Inn Werrington

SAT MAY 19 BE POP A LULAS The Swiss Cottage Woodston

Goodbarns Yard St Johns Street

MUSIC NIGHT WITH PHIL Quinns Club Whittlesey

STONE PONY The Fayre Spot Bretton

The Ploughman Werrington

The Prince Of Wales Feathers Castor

LIVE BANDS The Boro Bar Oundle Road

TWENTY 4

PULSE

The London Inn Stamford

New England Club Lincoln Road

SUN MAY 13

SLIDE TO OPEN

SAT MAY 26

The Peacock London Road

CRASH 'N' BURN

LESLEY CURTIS

SMOKING The Prince Of Wales ZEBRAS + DEAD Feathers COMMERCIAL Castor + THE REDEMPTION TUE MAY 15 OPEN MIC NIGHT + SKM The Boat Inn Whittlesey

HAWKWIND

The Swiss Cottage Woodston

Town Hall March

Mama Liz's Voodoo Lounge Stamford

CONSPIRACY CLUB

Mama Liz's Voodoo Lounge Stamford

THE NUGGETS

THE CANDLE THIEVES + FARINO + KERRY DEVINE

SUN MAY 27

BON GIOVI

ONE EYED CATS

The Fayre Spot Bretton

The Willow Festival Embankment

Stamford Corn Exchange Stamford

The Dragon Werrington

FROM THE STICKS

TWENTY 4

The Axe & Cleaver Boston

The Cherry Tree Oundle Road

SYMPTOM

The Ploughman Werrington

FRI MAY 25

The Angel Inn Yarwell

The Granary Long Sutton

THE OVERDUBS

LOOSE ROCKET

THE LITTLE DAVE BAND

RETROLUX

The Bluebell Inn Dogsthorpe

The Cherry Tree Oundle Road

LEON

Goodbarns Yard St Johns Street

LIVE BAND

Mama Liz's Voodoo Lounge Stamford

GLASS HEART

OVERDUBS

The Prince Of Wales Feathers Castor

The Boro Bar Oundle Road

ADRIAN DUFFY

Oundle Road

JD's Bar & Grill Park Road

LES WOODS BAND

LIVE BANDS

RETROLUX

The Woolpack Stanground

Goodbarns Yard St Johns Street

Mama Liz's Voodoo Lounge Stamford

SUN MAY 20

The Cherry Tree Oundle Road

RAMSHACKLE SERENADE

The Three Horseshoes Werrington

FUSE

The Ploughman Werrington

OUT OF ORDER

The Straw Bear Whittlesey

JOE DRISCOLL + Stamford THE LIMIT OPAQUE + The Cherry Tree SUPPORT

KAMIKAZE HOTSHOT + THE OPEN MIC NIGHT ROMANTIC IDLES + THE SOUND The Angel Inn INJECTORS + Yarwell REMAINS OF OPEN MIC NIGHT THE DAY + Mama Liz's Voodoo SOMETHING Lounge OBLONG Stamford

The Cock Inn Werrington

LLOYD WATSON

HOLLOWTECHNIC + TROUBLE WITH TUESDAY + TWO POINT ZERO

Halo Northminster

TUNNEL

The New Inn Boston

FRI MAY 11

The Bluebell Inn Dogsthorpe

DON'T LOOK DOWN + THE BEVERLY HELLBELLIES

The Three Horseshoes Werrington

SAT MAY 5

Oundle Road

THE STEREO'S

IDENTITY CRISIS

Mama Liz's Voodoo Lounge Stamford

EASYERSAID

The Fayre Spot Bretton

Mama Liz's Voodoo Lounge, Stamford

The Wicked Witch Ryhall

TAKING CARE OF BUSINESS

ADAM ELLIS

CUTTIN' LOOSE

The Cock Inn Werrington

Oundle Road

The Dragon Werrington

SAT MAY 12

The Prince Of Wales Feathers, Castor

OPEN MIC NIGHT The Cherry Tree

The Dragon Werrington

FRI MAY 18

SUN MAY 6

Lounge Stamford

STEVE BEAN

THE INFLUENCE

The Swiss Cottage Woodston

VOODOO HIT The Dragon UNDER_COVERED SQUAD + Werrington EMPRESS OF FUR The Bluebell Inn + EL CAMINO THU MAY 10 Dogsthorpe Mama Liz's Voodoo FALLEN BREAKS SUN APR 29

The Pear Tree Stamford

The Angel Inn Yarwell

Goodbarns Yard St Johns Street

LES WOODS BAND MATT ZILCH & THE MEIZTERS

The Prince Of Wales Feathers Castor

SWEET REVENGE OPEN MIC NIGHT The Cherry Tree

THE LITTLE DAVE BAND

RETROLUX

The Swiss Cottage Woodston

THU MAY 17

UNTAMED

The Fayre Spot Bretton

The Riverside Sutton Bridge

THE DEAD RABBITS

Mama Liz's Voodoo Lounge Stamford

THE GUARDS O'Neills Broadway

THE MALINGERERS The Swiss Cottage Woodston

TUNNEL The Cherry Tree Oundle Road

CRASH 'N' BURN The Cross Keys Oundle Road

DR. A'S RHYTHM & GROOVES Goodbarns Yard St Johns Street

LIVE BAND The Swiss Cottage Woodston

LLOYD WATSON The Bluebell Inn Dogsthorpe

TAKING CARE OF BUSINESS The Fayre Spot Bretton

THE LITTLE DAVE BAND The Cherry Tree Oundle Road

The Office Oundle Road

DR. A'S RHYTHM & GROOVES The Swiss Cottage Woodston

FRANKLY MY DEAR The Dragon Werrington

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

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*ESP can not be held responsible for errors in this listing, be sure to check with the venue for confirmation.

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