ESP May 2013

MAY 2013 Issue 165

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The best of local Leisure & Lifestyle

packed with what’s on in Greater peterborough!

In this month’s issue:

New restaurants Latest movies Levity Festival Great shows The Willow Festival The best events

amelia Lily Interview

EvEn morE nEws and EvEnts on WWW.espmaG.co.uk or LikE us on Facebook or foLLow us on TWITTer to hEar first

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Call or email us now, we’re here to help you get things moving

Proudly sponsored by

Gossip gossip@espmag.co.uk

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

LOCAL DJ WINS COMP

If you want to find out more about electric vehicles there’s a great event coming up on Saturday May 25 in Queensgate. Travelchoice are staging a day where you can test drive electric vehicles and speak to industry experts from Smiths Renault and Nissan, Goin Green and Zero Motorcycles. You can learn about the benefits of these vehicles, Queengate’s new electric charging posts and lots more. To book a test drive go to www.travelchoice.org.uk

ADVERTISING Head of Sales & Marketing Sean McAllister sean.mcallister@espmag.co.uk Sales Executives Maggie Gaziano maggie.gaziano@espmag.co.uk

PHOTOGRAPHY Andy Vernum, Emma Bothamley, Mike Harris,Chris Brudenell, Dave Porter

COLuMNISTS Pep Cipriano Andy Slater Steve Gonzalez Karen Devine

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

REPORTERS Mikey Clarke Alex Jones

mikey.clarke@espmag.co.uk alex.jones@espmag.co.uk

CONTRIBuTORS Gavin Miller Charlotte Jolly Keith Dalton Sarah Tempest

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

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

P.O. BOX 431, PETERBOROUGH PE6 7FG Tel: 01733 579707 Fax: 01733 579708 Email: office@espmag.co.uk ESP is a totally independent publication, not linked in any way to any other Peterborough publications. ESP is written, researched, designed and published

by ESP Magazine Ltd. The views expressed in this magazine are those of the individual writers and do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher. All design and artwork is the copyright of its respective owner. Reproduction of any part of this publication is strictly prohibited unless prior written consent is given by the publishers.

Congratulations to Peterborough DJ Paul Brice for winning a slot on the Passion stage at Xstatic Festival 2013! The DJ from Deeping topped the nationwide search and will be performing alongside performers such as Kissy Sell Out and The Loveable Rogues.

The electronic music festival which is now in its second year will be Paul’s biggest gig to date and he told ESP he can’t wait – “I’ve been DJing for around 10 years now and I’m very proud to say a local Peterborough DJ has won a national competition, hopefully this is the start of something big!”

• • • • • • •

Are you unhappy with your weight Tried all types of diets Dislike the way you look in the mirror uncomfortable with your size Can’t shift that extra weight Clothes don’t fit no motivation

Local actor, Luke Pasqualino is to star in a new BBC One drama series called The Musketeers. Luke, from Werrington, who shot to fame in Channel 4’s Skins has gone on to appear in various series and movies including the comedy horror flick Love Bite. Now he’s set to appear as D’Artagnan. You’ll have to wait until next year though to see Luke in action.

MODELS REQUIRED

SUE’S STYLE FORUMS

If you fancy some cosmetic treatments for just a nominal fee apply to Beckoning Beauty in Werrington to be a model and quote ESP. This salon on Church Street offers tinting and semi permanent treatments for lashes, brows and lips and much more. See www.beckoningbeauty.co.uk or call 01733 578799 or 07873 492091.

Free initial

consultation

SPORTS MASSAGE OFFER @ UPL

LUKE STARS IN NEW SERIES

Paul, who takes inspiration from artists such as Armand Van Buuren and James Zabelia, will be opening the festival which is held on June 29. For more info on Paul visit his Soundcloud page at www.soundcloud.com/briceymusic and read our interview on www.espmag.co.uk where there’s always more.

HyPno-SLimming Amazing new easy way to lose weight

patterns. The Style Forums continue with an Accent on Accessories on Thursday May 23 and on Thursday June 13 you can find out why some clothes don’t look as good as they should when international image coach Sue answers your style questions. The sessions are being held at the Realitas community arts centre in Peakirk and cost £25 per each 2.5 hr session. For more info www.suedonnelly.com or www.realitascommunity.org

ELECTRIC VEHICLE TRIAL DAY

ESP’s style guru Sue Donnelly knows a thing or two about what to wear and she’s sharing her expertise in a series of Style Forums.

The next one is on Thursday May 2 looking at physical shape and how it can determine choice of fabrics, designs and

Photo: BBC/Larry Horricks

EDITORIAL

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

If you’re competing in a marathon or triathlon make sure you look after yourself. Ultimate Performance Lifestyle in Orton Southgate have specialist physios and great pilates classes and are offering a 30 minute post-event sports massage for just £25. Call 01733 235226.

TEAM CONCORDE EXPANDS

Concorde Auto Centre in Peterborough has enjoyed success as a family run business under the ownership of the Hughes family for many years. Recently there were exciting changes with a serious investment from business consultant, Andy Wood. Now more changes are afoot with the arrival of new Branch Manager, Les McGowan

The Hypno-Slimming Programme can help you and includes: Free Hypnotic Gastric Band worth £150

Peterborough Hypnotherapy Clinic, 26 Priestgate, City Centre Telephone 01733 768839 www.curativehypnotherapy.com Website: www.onesevenone.co.uk QuiT Smoking in juST 1 Hour wiTH HyPnoSiS

10% off A vision of Beauty is a mobile your first beauty service offering beauty treatment when you quote ESP treatments in the comfort of your (min spend of £15) own home at a time to suit you.

Tinting from £5 Lash extensions £50 Waxing from £5 Gelish nails £20 Xen-tan spray tans Manicure/Pedicure from £20 from £20

To Let - Hair Salon Busy Location • Available to rent in Peterborough central • Large floor space for Beauty Room, Nail Bar, Brow shaping, Sun Bed room • Reception area with five work stations for hair styling.

For details, please call 07939 418188 4

www.espmag.co.uk

Telephone: 07983556824

A of Beauty

E: beautybycharlotte.richardson2@gmail.com W: www.a-visionofbeauty.co.uk Twitter @char_r88 Visit Facebook: A vision of beauty

and several of his former work colleagues, lifting staff numbers to 26. The enhanced team will ensure that communication, quality and speed are achieved and will add over 30 years experience to the current tyre fitters, MOT testers and auto technicians working on the shop floor.

Now a Customer Services Team has also been introduced to look after customers and make sure it’s all running as it should.

Current special offers from Concorde Auto Centre include FREE MOT with any scheduled service and MOT’s for just £20 (the cheapest in the UK). Please call 01733 340212 or visit www.concordeauto centre.com for more info.

ENIGMA OFFERS

LAVANDULA @ THE TAP

JOB SHOW

This month's Lavandula night is on Friday May 10 in the Tap Room, Brewery Tap where there’ll be a mix of live music, DJs and visual projections. Playing live will be the fantastic Empire Parade, a Guildfordbased seven-piece contemporary swing band with a funky drummer and bright future. They’re joined by the Pennyless Folk Trio who bring their enchanting mix of fiddle, flute and guitar, playing their own material alongside reworkings of traditional classics. Doors open 8pm till 1am, £4 entry.

LOSE THE INCHES @ MBE It’s all coming off at My Body Essentials… well the fat that is! MBE are offering you one full Lipobelt Fat Reduction session for an amazing £10.

Using low level laser the results of this treatment are immediate with a decrease in size, coupled with increased tissue oxygenation and Lymphatic drainage. The procedure is painless, comfortable and non-invasive. Why not pop along to MBE on Shrewsbury Avenue and see just what this system can do for you by calling 01733 305102.

JELLY ROLL For fans of something a little different, The Jelly Roll returns on Saturday May 11 playing an eclectic mix of clubsoul, rhythm and blues, vintage ska and reggae. Held upstairs at the Burghley Club, these local DJs are the only group in town that play underground vinyl tunes making Jelly Roll unique. Expect Motown, Stax, Atlantic, vintage ska/reggae, 50s/60s soul, RnB, blue eyed soul and sometimes a dash of soulful funk. They pride themselves on using vinyl for that authentic sound and visual appeal and it’s the only underground vinyl night of this style in the area.

If you need to get yourself looking lovely for summer the Enigma salon, 27 Lincoln Road, offers highlights from £35, and a cut and blow dry for just £20 for all new clients during May – just quote ESP. If you need some colour they offer state-of-theart MegaSun premium sunbeds for just 60p per min. Or relax with a hot stone massage for an hour for £30. In May there’s also a special offer on IPL Treatments – buy a full course of five treatments and get the sixth one free! For more info call: 07526 060998 or 01733 561874.

If you’re looking for work head to The Job Show on Thursday May 16. The first event was a huge success and this one is on at the Executive Suite at Peterborough United Football Club. It’s on from 10.30am - 5.30pm and it’s free admission. Find out more about which companies are attending on www.thejob-show.co.uk or call 01733 555717 to find out more.

PERUVIAN POP UP RESTAURANT Rico Peru is the first Pop Up Peruvian Restaurant in Peterborough, following the great success of similar pop up restaurants elsewhere. It’s being brought to you by Christian Castillo who set up Rico Picante producing a must-have chilli sauce available in select retailers such as Fortnum and Mason, Partridges and many others. His partner, an experienced chef, now specializes in Peruvian cuisine, and uses a new wide range of Peruvian ingredients from the Andes and Amazon of Peru to develop new recipes. They’ve selected the most popular and traditional dishes and twisted them into their own style. You can try it for yourself on Thursday May 9 at the Peruvian Pop Up restaurant at Club Caliente in the Parnwell Centre. It’ll be £25 per cover for three courses and a cocktail. Call 07779 369078 or visit www.rico-peru.co.uk

KNOBWORTH RETURNS! It’s back! Saturday May 4 and Sunday 5 May 5 (May Bank Holiday weekend) the beer garden at the Angel Inn Yarwell will play host to the 2nd annual Knobworth Festival! This great little music, real ale and cider festival was devised to raise awareness of testicular and prostate cancer. There’ll be live music from Lexi Green and The Indigo Blue, Blackout, The Helix, We Sell Tigers and Four Wheel Drive. Entrance is free.

BREKKIE @ CHIQUITOS

MOVE WITH REEDS RAINS

Chiquitos Restaurant Bar and Mexican Grill in Hampton have now launched a tasty new breakfast to kick start your day.

Tuck in for just £3.95 every day from 9am.

Book online at www.chiquito.co.uk

If you’re thinking of making a house move, there’s never been a better time!

SPECIAL BUFFET @ ANGEL SPICE If you’re heading over to enjoy the Stilton Cheese Rolling fun on Monday May 6, don’t forget you can make a day of it and enjoy a special buffet at Angel Spice. It’s just £6.95 pp between 12 noon and 5pm and if you pop in for the evening session from 5pm – 10pm it’s £7.95. The A la carte menu will also still be available.

Reeds Rains Estate Agents have been selling properties since 1868 and have now grown to become one of the UK’s largest estate agencies, with over 200 branches nationwide including one on Cowgate in Peterborough. Now spring’s here they tell us it’s a great time to make the move and they have a large database of prospective property hunters. Their team has over 25 years of combined experience and uses the widest marketing reach so if you want to buy or sell, it’s no sale no fee so give them a call 01733 306999.

LOCAL

ENTERTAINMENT

QUEEN OF THE DANCE If you loved Riverdance don’t miss Queen of the Dance on Thursday May 9, choreographed by and starring Catherine Gallagher. This is an electrifying performance of world class dancing with a new theatrical extravaganza of Irish Dance accompanied by beautiful live music. Expect sensational and breathtaking solos from this ex-Riverdance, All Ireland and World Champion exponent of Irish dance. This show at the Cresset is an impressive production of Irish dance as you’ve never seen it before! Tickets are £22.50, concessions £20, children £16. Box office: 01733 265705.

BLOFELD & BAXTER

NEW REVELLERS PRODUCTION – GRANDEE What do you do when you find out that a gorgeous blonde is in fact your step great grandmother! Confused? All will be revealed in Clive Read’s brand new comedy Grandee to be staged at the Peterborough Indoor Bowls Club from Tuesday May 21 to Friday May 24. The Revellers are proud to present the latest in a long and extremely successful line of supper theatre productions. Grandee is a hilarious new play about the events following the death of Great Grandfather 'D' aged 94. The family are in for some surprises and revelations – not to mention a living will – when they return from the funeral! So celebrate the return of spring (we hope) with a good laugh and a superb fish and chip supper all for just £10 per head on 01733 755176 or 01733 560449. See you there!

Alex Jones

Cricket fans and those who enjoy a good bit of sporting banter shouldn’t miss Blofeld & Baxter as they share their memories of Test Match Special on Thursday May 23 at the Cresset. Peter Baxter and Henry Blofeld are two of the titans of UK cricket with a sidesplitting show full of memories from within the commentary boxes. Anecdotes never before heard of the most legendary players from the last forty years are finally aired.

Tickets £18.50. Box office: 01733 265705.

RENT The powerful musical Rent is coming to The Cresset on Friday May 17.

The show, which is the seventh-longest-running Broadway show in history, will be brought to you by up-and-coming performers Inspiration Productions.

A group who’ve already showcased their work at the Royal Albert Hall and Her Majesty's Theatre. The story of a generation of struggling artists, addicts and impoverished young people living in the shadow of AIDS, Rent is one of the finest pieces of modern theatre in the last twenty years and won the Tony Award for best musical amongst various other accolades.

Tickets are £12 (£8 concessions). Box office: 01733 265705. Alex Jones

If you enjoyed The Key’s saucy Burlesque Show back in March, then make sure to catch Miss Nightingale – The Burlesque Musical which will be showing at the Key Theatre from Monday May 13 to Saturday May 18. Sex, scandal and show business, this production brings the period glamour, sparkling wit and vintage sounds of 1940’s London thrillingly to life. The Times called it – 'A blitzy, wartime, blackout romance of gin, gents and garter belts'. Tickets are £15 and available from the box office on 01733 207239.

Alex Jones

ONE NIGHT OF ELVIS There are Elvis Presley tribute artists and then there’s Lee Memphis King. In this brand new show for 2013, Europe’s most successful Elvis Presley tribute artist presents the ultimate tribute to The King and he’ll be bringing his fantastic performance to The Cresset on Friday May 24.

This spectacular show begins with an authentic recreation of the 1950’s rock’n’roll years, progressing through the movie years to Elvis’ return to performing in his ’68 comeback special. The second half culminates in a rousing expo of Elvis’ years performing in Vegas.

Accompanied throughout by his world class orchestra and backing singers, the show also features a large screen projection, making it the biggest Elvis show to tour UK theatres.

Tickets are £20 and available from the box office by calling 01733 265705.

Alex Jones

TOM STADE TOTALLY ROCKS Star of BBC 1's Live at the Apollo and Channel 4's Stand up of the Week, comedian Tom Stade will be bringing his brand of carefree comedy to The Key Theatre on Thursday May 30.

Following on from last year’s sell out debut UK tour and a smash hit run at the Edinburgh Festival, the Canadian comic shares his refreshingly laid back and unconventional ethos on life. A show that frequently cuts close to the bone, packed full of sharp and inventive observations.

Brilliantly mischievous and charming, catch comedy's coolest stand-up before he explodes into a household name. Tickets are £15 (£13 concessions). Box office: 01733 207239. Alex Jones

6

www.espmag.co.uk

MISS NIGHTINGALE BURLESQUE MUSICAL

BURLESQUE @ RADIUS Get ready for a delightful evening of dance, music, laughter, playfulness and a little bit of tease.

Emcee Productions invite you to Strictly Burlesque – a cabaret night to remember as the art of Burlesque, with its glamour, sophistication and spellbinding entertainment is combined with modern day comedy and musicality. Strictly Burlesque promises spectacular costumes, amazing vocals, world class Burlesque performers and plenty of wit and naughtiness from your host. It’s on for one night only, Friday May 31 at 8pm at Radius, Peterborough.

Over 18s only. Tickets £10 in advance (£12 on door).

Call 01733 704303 / 07974 700285 to book your seats now. www.emceeproductions.co.uk

BEING TOMMY COOPER Powerful, provocative, painfully funny and true. The man who could make you laugh just by walking on to stage, Tommy Cooper comes vividly to life in the confrontational new play Being Tommy Cooper at the Key Theatre on Thursday May 23 and Friday May 24.

Las Vegas 1954. In a small hotel room the up-and-coming comic faces the prospect of his first big failure. With a closing show and a warring relationship with his manager, Tommy finds an offer on the table and a drink in his hand. This show follows the true story of the stand-up legend’s critical career moments. Tickets are £14 (£12 concessions) and are available from the box office on 01733 207239.

Alex Jones

THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST Widely acknowledged as one of the greatest comedies in the English language, The Importance of Being Earnest will be showing in Peterborough from Thursday May 9 to Saturday May 11.

Generally accepted as Oscar Wilde's best work, this 19th Century classic has it all! Wonderful characters, sparkling dialogue, gloriously improbable plot twists and a sprinkling of romance all performed brilliantly by the London Classic Theatre. Tickets are £16 and available from the Key Theatre box office by calling 01733 207239.

Alex Jones

THINK FLOYD EDUCATING RITA For those more musically tuned, The Key will host an eclectic range of harmonious delights for the ear drums. Think Floyd, dubbed ‘the Definitive Pink Floyd Experience’, will be performing there on Saturday May 25.

Now in their 20th year, the talented musicians who make up Think Floyd have managed to faithfully recreate all the atmosphere, visual magnitude and musical excellence of Pink Floyd live on stage. Their new production for 2013 celebrates the 40th anniversary of one of the most influential albums of all time: Dark Side of the Moon.

For fans of Pink Floyd this is not to be missed! Tickets are £18.

Box office: 01733 207239. Alex Jones

The classic comedy Educating Rita will be coming to the Stamford Corn Exchange on Friday May 10. The play follows the relationship between a young Liverpudlian working-class hairdresser and Dr. Frank Bryant, a middle-aged university lecturer, during the course of a year.

Perhaps best known as the BAFTA awardwinning film starring Michael Caine and Julie Walters, this story was originally intended for the stage and Hambledon Productions do a great job re-telling the story. Filled with humour, this inspirational and infectious British cultural classic is not to be missed!

Tickets are £10 (£8 concessions).

Box office 01780 766455.

Alex Jones

PETERBOROUGH ARTS CINEMA The John Clare cinema at the Central Library on Broadway has more great movies lined up this month.

On Thursday May 9 it’s The Master with Joaquin Phoenix giving a laceratingly powerful performance as Freddie Quell, a traumatized navy veteran who becomes deeply involved in a cult which uses extreme exercises to eradicate physical and psychological ills.

Danish movie The Hunt is next up on Thursday May 23 and sees Festen director Thomas Vinterberg storm back to form with this drama about a teacher wrongfully accused of child abuse.

The Sapphires, vaguely based on fact, is a likable Australian movie set in 1968 when boozy Irish musician Dave Lovelace (Chris O'Dowd) discovers four feisty black singers at an outback talent contest and decides to become their manager.

The Vietnam War is raging, and after converting them from country and western to soul (with which he's obsessed) he takes them to Saigon where they’re a huge hit with the troops. Catch this one on Thursday May 30 at 7.30pm

THIS HOUSE

A TRIBUTE TO QUEEN

James Graham, best known for his plays Eden's Empire and Tory Boyz, is bringing his 'bitingly energetic' new play This House to the Stamford Arts Centre on Sunday May 19 and Tuesday May 21.

After a decade on tour, Mercury have firmly established themselves as one of the world’s most authentic tributes to the legend that is Freddie Mercury and Queen. A must see for fans; they arrive at the Stamford Corn Exchange on Saturday May 18.

His new play strips politics down to the practical realities of those behind the scenes who roll up their sleeves, and on occasion bend the rules, to manage the British parliament. The Times has called it 'a funny and moving political epic. Another hit is born'.

Over the last ten years, Mercury have performed to sell out audiences at prestigious venues across the world. With the extraordinary vocal range of Joseph Lee Jackson as Freddie Mercury and the intricate guitar work of Glenn Scrimshaw as Brian May, backed by superbly crafted harmonies and a driving rhythm section, this show includes fantastic performances of the most popular Queen hits.

Tickets are £14 (concessions £12).

Box office: 01780 763203.

Tickets cost £16 (£15.50 concessions). Box office: 01780 766455.

Alex Jones

Alex Jones

SIMONA BACKS POP-ULAR EVENT

Photo: Emma Bothamley

Face of ESP Simona Bajorinaite is getting right behind the charity walk Pop Around Peterborough in aid of Arthritis Research UK, supported by ESP Magazine.

Some of the folks from last year’s Pop Around Peterborough After some dodgy weather we’re all desperate to get out of the office and enjoy a stomp in the countryside – how about you?

The Boat House pub on Sunday May 19 with family entertainment from 10am and the walk starting at 10.30am.

This charity event is now in its second year after a successful launch in 2012. It’s now moved location to The Boathouse pub at Thorpe Meadows where walkers will set off on a 5 mile walk, each with a balloon. The idea is that when you cross the finishing line you’ll pop your balloon and find out if you’ve won a fantastic prize.

Michael Clarke, who is the event organiser and Regional Fundraising Manager for Arthritis Research UK told ESP – “Last year’s walk was such a fabulous success, everyone there I’m sure would agree it was such a great day. There are over 10 million people in the UK right now suffering from Arthritis, so nearly everyone will know someone close to them affected. Everyone can help make a change to people’s lives by signing up to this walk.”

Simona says – “I hope we can encourage even more walkers to take part this year and make it an even bigger success! It’s a fun idea and is a great way to get some fresh air, raise money and maybe even win yourself something like a family day out, shopping vouchers or a meal out.”

So come on folks, it should be a doddle and you can even walk the dog while you’re doing it! We’ll be there to cheer you on and we want you, your friends and family to take part so it’s time to enter now.

Pop Around Peterborough starts and finishes at

Entry for Pop Around Peterborough is just £5 per person which includes a fantastic goodie-bag and the chance of winning many prizes worth hundreds of pounds.

For more info contact Michael Clarke by emailing m.clarke@arthritisresearchuk.org or call 01733 331721.

Alternatively visit the website www.arthritisresearchuk.org

Time to enter!

Pop Around Peterborough sets off on Sunday 19 May 2013 from The Boathouse pub at Thorpe Meadows in Peterborough at 10am.

For an entry form and details of how to enter call Michael Clarke, Regional Fundraising Manager on 01733 331721 or 07772 111092. m.clarke@arthritisresearchuk.org Entry fee £5. www.arthritisresearchuk.org Registered Charity England and Wales No. 207711, Scotland No. SC041156

CAFÉ CLARKES

“There’s a real buzz about this location and the menu on offer will really add to that. We hope to bring a little of the London dining scene feel to the city.”

Samantha, one of the chefs from Clarkes is moving over to Café Clarkes and aims to introduce people to traditional foods such as steak and chips but served in a very different way. You don’t have to have a formal meal, you can pop in for light snacks or just tea and cake during the day and their plan is to expand the alfresco dining.

There’ll soon be a new dining venue at the Key Theatre as Café Clarkes throws open its doors with a bistro feel and more informal dining.

Expect a modern, minimalist look to the décor using plenty of natural tones and fresh, local and seasonal produce on the menu.

It’s brought to you by the team behind the successful Banyan Tree restaurant and Clarke’s restaurant in the city. Spokesman Dinesh Odedra says he’s delighted with this latest opening – “We’re really excited by the venue and the varied menu we can put on.

It makes our food more accessible. There’s a great vibrancy about being inside a theatre and being located in a beautiful riverside setting.

Prices will sit around the £12 - £15 mark for a main meal and at lunchtimes you can enjoy two courses for £10. They have a special pastry chef so desserts will be amazing as well.

There’ll be pre-theatre dinner packages where you can buy a ticket and gain discount on a special menu where you’ll be assured you finish your food in time for the show. General diners meanwhile, can sit back and enjoy a relaxed meal from the main menu.

Get ready for alfresco dining by the river...

Café Clarkes will be available for functions and private hire and would be perfect for wedding receptions.

Bookings being taken now on 01733 561465.

www.cafeclarkes.co.uk

Come and try our delicious NEW MENU! Traditional North Indian cuisine with new fish, lamb, chicken and vegetarian additions. Try our extended South Indian menu available on Sundays.

stylish

A and contemporary restaurant refurbished to a high standard

Dine in

spacious, chic surroundings

Indulge in

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

Enjoy cocktails and Tapas at our

relaxing bar

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

LOCAL

EVENTS

SOAP STARS @ TRUCKFEST This May Bank Holiday May 5 & 6 Truckfest will be bringing a star studded line up to the East of England Showground as well as over a thousand trucks on show!

MORE NAMES JOIN OLLY ON STAGE IN CITY The excitement’s building for the big concert on the Embankment which promises to be THE summer day out in the city on Sunday June 2.

Not only is lovely Olly Murs headlining but the star names in support seem to be growing by the week. The fab line up now includes one of our favourites – Stooshe – the girl group with the great voices and striking style, plus X Factor and West End star Diana Vickers, rising starlet Tich and now one of the most exciting prospects in the UK music scene – Ed Drewett.

Stooshe – who once made an appearance at the Voyager Academy, now take to the huge Embankment stage having grabbed attention with great tunes like Love Me and Black Heart.

Diana Vickers was a semi-finalist in the fifth series of the X Factor and landed the award-

winning lead in the West End stage revival of The Rise and Fall of Little Voice. Her anticipated second album has been completed but is on hold until filming finishes on her independent movie debut in The Perfect Wave, alongside Clint Eastwood’s son.

Officially the largest event ever to be held at The Showground, Truckfest is a firm favourite with families thanks to the combination of main arena action, celebrities and children’s attractions. Not forgetting the hundreds of trade stands.

This year, soap superstars Emmett Scanlon alias Hollyoaks bad boy Brendan Brady and Michelle Collins of Eastenders and Coronation Street fame will be appearing over the weekend! Star of Ice Road Truckers Lisa Kelly will be making an appearance on both days and for the children the famous Moshi Monsters will be at the show.

Originally emerging as a YouTube sensation, Tich is on the breakthrough, with her debut single Dumb just released and she’s been touring with Olly on his arena tour.

Ed Drewett is the household-name-in-waiting of UK music, having worked with everyone from Pro Green through to The Wanted, as the writer of Lightning and the #1 chart singles All Time Low and Glad You Came. Ed’s also more recently collaborated with Olly helping to pen songs from Olly’s latest album, Right Place Right Time.

With the kind permission of Peterborough City Council, the concert will take place at The Embankment, Peterborough, on Sunday June 2. For more information, or to book tickets for the event, visit www.gigantic.com or call 0871 224 1112 / 0844 888 9991, or visit www.nationalboxoffice.co.uk

As well as the famous monster truck 'BIGFOOT 17' the 'Beast from the East' jet truck from the Olympics closing ceremony will also make an appearance.

Admission is £17 for adults, £9 for children (ages 5-15).

Alternatively you can buy a family ticket for £40 providing entry for two adults and two children. Tickets are available at www.truckfest.co.uk.

Alex Jones

TIME TO GO GREEN @ CITY FESTIVAL Are you ready to go green? The city’s annual Green Festival returns this month celebrating 22 years of fun and advice on how to live a greener lifestyle and there’s plenty packed in between Saturday May 25 and Sunday June 2!

The Green Festival, coordinated by Peterborough Evironment City Trust (PECT), hosts numerous events and most are free to take part in. This year’s festival, sponsored by Ringway, will be based on the principle of ‘One Planet Living’, whilst celebrating PECT’s 20th Birthday!

The festival will kick off with a city centre launch on Saturday May 25, showcasing everything that’s fun and exciting about being green. PECT will be transforming the city centre with a pop-up picnic area and allotment, a junk band, cycle powered sound system, cooking demos, circus performers, climbing wall, craft fair and lots of stalls and prizes!

www.espmag.co.uk

Local actor Warwick Davis of Harry Potter and Star Wars fame is the celebrity guest opening the Yaxley Festival on the weekend of May 18 – 19.

He’ll be joined by local MP Shailesh Vara in launching this free event made possible by a Lottery grant.

It’s all being held on Middletons Road Recreation Ground, in Yaxley, just outside Peterborough and it’s hoped it’ll become an annual event.

There’s a great line up of entertainment planned including a Live Music Zone featuring Groove Cartel, Vendetta, Sons of Kal-El, The 925s, From the Sticks plus, the amazing Abbalarf and talented Simon Lee.

On Sunday May 26 it’s the Get Moving cycle day showcasing all things walking and cycling.

Monday May 27 it’s milling and breadmaking day at Sacrewell Farm.

There’s a History Zone with two historical exhibitions, a Sports Zone will include everything from virtual golf to penalty shoot-outs, and the Animal Zone where you can get up close and personal with a whole menagerie of interesting beasties!

One of our favourite events is always the Swish clothes swapping event. It’s held at the Eco Innovation Centre from 6.30pm on Monday May 27 and is £5 per person.

It’s a great way to restock your wardrobe and clear out some of those items you just never wear. You can bring up to six items of clothes to swap, enjoy a glass of wine and delicious locally sourced nibbles whilst recycling in the most glam way possible!

That’s not all – add into the mix a fun dog show, classic car show, an arts exhibition, funfair, quiz and plenty of stalls, food and drink and it sounds like a weekend you shouldn’t miss!

On Sunday June 2 the action moves to The Green Backyard with a pitch in picnic and annual soup competition – workshops will be on offer which will include bush craft, bike maintenance, DIY beauty products and how to grow your own veg.

For all the full details take a look at www.yaxleyfestival.info or their page on facebook.

There’s so much going on from guided walks and cycle rides to film screenings you need to check out www.pect.org.uk/events so you don’t miss out.

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WARWICK OPENS NEW YAXLEY FESTIVAL

I’M A BRONZE AGE PERSON, GET ME OUT OF HERE! Do you reckon you could live without your mobile, television or the internet for a week? That’s what a group of brave living history enthusiasts will be doing for six days, and you’re invited to witness their challenge!

From Tuesday May 28 – Sunday June 2 Flag Fen Archaeology Park’s team of historians will be living in a roundhouse, cooking over an open fire-pit and making everything by hand in a historical experiment to discover how communities used to live 3,500 years ago.

They’ll be set daily challenges involving different ancient crafts and technology, such as casting bronze swords and making prehistoric clothes.

Flag Fen will be opening its doors for the duration of the experiment, providing a fascinating opportunity for visitors to see how the group are surviving. You can even assist them in some of their set tasks!

Opening times are 10am-5pm. Prices are £6 for adults, £4 for children, £15 for families and under 5s are FREE. Heritage Pass Holders can enter for FREE. For more information, call 01733 313414 or visit www.vivacity-peterborough.com

JOOLS HOLLAND JOIN THE & BLACK IN STAMFORD PINK MASQUERADE BALL Ready for some boogie woogie from the main man? Yes the one and only Jools Holland and his fabulous rhythm and blues orchestra is playing live at Burghley on Saturday June 8 in a fabulous summer concert. The show also features special guests Roland Gift, the voice of Fine Young Cannibals, Ruby Turner and Louise Marshall. It’s a rare opportunity to see one of the biggest names in music performing at a unique venue.

Tickets are £37.50 available from Burghley House 01780 752451 or visit www.burghley.co.uk or Stamford Arts Centre on 01780 763203. There is also a 24hr hotline ‘See Tickets’ on 0844 2097364.

Time to get your glad rags on for a fantastic night of glitz and glam where you can party the night away in aid of a great cause.

The Pink & Black Charity’s Midsummer Masquerade Ball next month is definitely one for your social diary. It’s being held on Saturday June 22 in the Atrium at Peterborough Arena at the East of England Showground Tickets are £40 including a drink on arrival and a three course meal. You can dance the night away to live music and a disco and maybe win a prize in the raffle. It’s all in aid of Peterborough City Hospital Breast Care and Oncology Units.

There are discounts for tables of ten so give Katie a call on 07887 666265, see facebook or email pinkandblackball@hotmail.co.uk

MILLING AND SHEEP SHEARING @ SACREWELL Staff at Sacrewell Farm and Country Centre will be embracing the rich heritage of the farm this month showcasing some traditional skills.

No idea how to make bread or shear a sheep – just head along to Sacrewell Farm this month and all will be revealed!

Join professional sheep shearer Ross Priddle at the Farm on May 11 and 12 for the Sacrewell sheeps’ annual trim! Can you guess the weight of the fleece to win a family ticket back to the Farm? The kids will also enjoy following the sheep trail to win a mask, learning some woolly facts and meeting this year’s lambs.

Then on May 25 – 27 the Farm joins forces with the Green Festival showcasing milling and breadmaking with the rangers taking over the Grade II* listed 18th Century Watermill to show you how things were done when the mill was an integral part of the community.

ROMANS INVADE FLAG FEN! Step back in time this May Bank Holiday for a special Roman era event at Flag Fen Archaeology Park. Held between Saturday May 4 and Monday May 6, the Roaming Romans event will re-create the excitement of the era in atmospheric outdoor surroundings.

Ideal for families, historical re-enactors will be putting on fascinating combat displays, giving audiences an insight into Gladiators’ fighting styles. Plus, have you ever wondered what happened to injured soldiers after combat? A Roman doctor will be on hand to explain the often gruesome surgery required to patch up gory wounds.

Learn more about the weapons and tactics of the mighty Roman army, try popular Roman games and watch traditional cookery demonstrations. There will even be a cavalryman on site to demonstrate the training and use of horses in battle.

Opening times are 10am-5pm throughout the weekend. Prices are £6 for adults, £4 for children, £15 for families and under 5s go FREE. Heritage Pass Holders can enter for FREE. For more info, call 01733 313414 or visit www.vivacity-peterborough.com.

Alex Jones

So you want to run a half-marathon?

You may have seen in last month’s ESP Magazine that I’ve signed up for the Perkins Great Eastern Run 2013. I hope this inspired you to do so as well. After all, if a lazy, take-away addict can do it… so can you!

ARE going to do this run. Suddenly your training will feel relevant and have a meaning. It will show others and yourself that you are committed!

So why take my advice when you can probably seek someone out who’s been running for years?

Well, I personally think my lack of experience is precisely what qualifies me to speak on the topic.

I have spoken to MANY veteran runners who yes, know a LOT about running, but seem to have forgotten what it was like to be a beginner. I am a beginner.

If you fancy joining me (and over 1,100 people who’ve already signed up) for the run, then here’s what I recommend at this stage…

Sign up: This may sound obvious, but sign up now! By signing up you’ve made the decision that you

Plan your runs: Don’t get into the habit of running as and when. You know what it’s like, you wake up in the morning without a plan, and nothing gets done. Decide the day before what time you are going to run, and how far you’re going to go. Don’t allow yourself to come up with excuses as to why you can’t stick to the plan.

Start running… but listen to your body: For a few weeks now I’ve been running the same two mile route (three days a week) around Ferry Meadows. The first couple of times I found myself walking most of the route. I’d run until my body told me it was tired, or if I became too out-of-breath. By week two I found myself running further distances without having to walk.

I’m already running the full two miles in one go. If I’d pushed myself to attempt the two miles in the first week, I’d have probably given up by now. But no, I listened to my body, walked when I had to, and I’m already seeing a difference.

Entry fees for the half marathon are £21 for members of UKA affiliated athletic clubs and £23 for unaffiliated entrants. The fun run is £8 for entrants who are 16 yearsold and over and £5 for 16 years and under.

Enter at www.perkinsgreat easternrun.co.uk You can talk about the race by searching Perkins Great Eastern Run on Facebook and on Twitter: PerkinsGER The 2013 Perkins Great Eastern Run will take place on Sunday October 13 at 10.30am. The 5k fun run starts at 10am and is

followed by the wheelchair race, which commences just before the half marathon. Before October, I’ll be keeping you updated with my training, whilst also interviewing other local runners to see how they’ve been getting on.

Why not share your training tips by emailing editorial@espmag.co.uk Maybe you’ll be mentioned in next month’s edition.

Mikey Clarke

SENSE AND SENSIBILITY

pep.cipriano@espmag.co.uk

According to a Superdrug poll 54% of men would rather marry a brunette because they’re ‘more sensible’ than blondes. Jodie Marsh or Holly Willobooby? I rest my case.

Pep Cipriano

I WAS MADE AN OFFER I COULDN’T REFUSE

S THOU IS STILL THE BIKE TO BEAT Photo: Chris Brudenell

So what’s been going on at Man About Town sponsors Balderston recently? Well, sales manager TJ has finally ditched the Dumbledore look and had his hair chopped a couple of metres. Dave looks like he’s grown an inch (new shoes perhaps?) and Michelle’s got a red face because of sunburn. Exciting stuff you’ll no doubt agree.

Pep and the Goodfellas

Vesuvio Italian Restaurant in Whittlesey had been on my ‘must visit’ list for a while but owners Maria and Peppe gave me a gentle nudge by inviting me to their Gangsters and Molls theme night.

I can honestly say it was one of the best evenings I’d spent in a restaurant for months. Vesuvio puts on regular theme nights and if this one’s anything to go by I’ll be booking onto them all.

fish and to begin we had a mixed seafood salad, which was followed by linguine pasta with clams in a cheesy tomato and white wine sauce.

This was quickly accompanied by trays of fresh mussels to share. I had to make more room for the next course – filleted sea bass in a white wine, lemon and parsley sauce.

But one thing that’s remained unchanged over the spring is the appetite sports bike enthusiasts have for BMW’s awesome S 1000 RR. This motorbike is quite simply the dog’s dangly bits and continues to come up trumps against the best of the rest in the sports bike market.

• C 600 Sport, G 650 GS, G 650 GS Sertao • F 700 GS, F 800 GS, F 800 GT • K 1600 GTSE, K 1600 GTLE • R 1200 GS, R 1200 GS Adventure, R 1200 R, R 1200 RTSE They’ve also got a load of BMW Motorrad Motorsport teamwear in the showroom (like the hoodie I’m wearing). Check out the demo bike fleet, teamwear collection and ride-out calendar on www.balderston.net or call 01733 565470. Please don’t ask to test ride the blue S thou because you just might leave a deposit on it.

As an overall package the S 1000 RR represents the complete sports motorcycle.

Last summer I tested the gorgeous blue example Balderston use as a demonstrator and seriously thought about trading in my girlfriend for it – that’s how good it is.

Vesuvio was packed with diners who got into the spirit of the evening by arriving dressed in their gangster attire and some of them were even carrying guns! The atmosphere was like being in a restaurant abroad where everyone, including staff, gets into a party spirit and makes your visit an occasion instead of just a dinner.

Most of the diners on my table were beaten by then but I was in full flow and happily tucked into the next course of mixed fried seafood that arrived after a 30minute pause. Dessert was homemade strawberry, lemon and mint sorbet (denoting the Italian flag) and this was followed by a routine slurp of Italian coffee.

The effort made by customers was matched by a delicious four-course menu.

My previous experiences of set meals on nights when a restaurant is packed to the rafters have been disappointing. Usually there’s a lack of effort and the food has the taste and personality of a Rich Tea finger.

The food was plentiful and excellent. It was also served hot – and I’m the first to complain when it isn’t. Entertainment on the night was steered by an Italian singer who belted out songs in Italian, Neapolitan and English. There was plenty of dancing and even the chefs made time for a cheeky tarantella between courses.

But Vesuvio pride themselves on serving up quality Italian food and this night was no different. The menu was focused on

Bring on the next theme night! Check Vesuvio out on Facebook or visit www.vesuviowhittlesey.com

CIAOS OUT >

>> Wayne – ready to be Dino?! >> Chris – time for that Vespa shoot... >> Anmptoneio – buon compleano >> Dave – mush >> Bev – when can we ride to yours then?! >> Suggs – “Security? You’re looking at it.”

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That same bike is still calling my name and I think the lovely folk at Balderston should ask me to promote the dealership everywhere I ride, which means loaning the bike to me all summer...

I’ll leave them to think about that one for a minute but in the meantime the rest of the Balderston fleet of demonstrator bikes looks like this:

MY WORD OF THE MONTH

CAUGHT IN TH E ACT!

“If you end up in the red light dist rict the night bef Paris marathon, tell ore the everybody the rash was runner's cha fing."

Best Man

Because some things we saw and did shouldn’t go into my speech...

Union Jack, Angeline, Emma, flick knives, stolen wheel, swans, prison cell, Queensgate lift, stolen CD, broken bed, Alfa 164 crash, brown finger, GU clinic, Dominican beach stroll and stolen jug in Ibiza.

<

DREAM PLAY ABOUT OUR NEW TOWN I went to see 'Parkway Dreams' at the Key Theatre last month and thoroughly enjoyed every minute of it.

It was a musical documentary play that told the back-room story of architects and politicians who transformed our small and historic Fenland city into a new town during the 1970s and 1980s. It's also the story of families torn apart, the foundation of life-long friendships and the emotional upheaval of moving home.

Parkway Dreams explored the facts behind the work of the Peterborough Development Corporation and how it successfully helped Peterborough to become the thriving city it is today.

The play was informative, heart-warming, dripping with nostalgia and excellently acted out.

References to landmark events and phases like the opening of Queensgate and punks gathering on Cathedral Square struck a chord in those of us who are old enough to remember.

Best of all was the actors’ interpretation of Charles Swift OBE whose character was portrayed by entering scenes on his bicycle. Knowing Charles he most probably still has that same bike today!

The play was an Eastern Angles production and they’re looking for local people to take part in their next project – Dark Earth. Performances will take place at Flag Fen in a specially adapted auditorium over ten days in September.

Dark Earth explores the drainage of the Fens against a tale of love and growing up. It requires a cast of approximately 20, with good parts across the play for men and women of all ages.

Photo: Andy Vernum

If you’re interested, email platformpeterborough@yahoo.co.uk or call 01473 218202.

LEVITY LAUGHS THIS SUMMER Telling jokes was never my strong point so you can image how pleased I was to get the seal of approval from our resident comedian Steve Gonzalez who was aching with laughter at the Levity Festival launch when I told him this joke: Me: “Knock knock…”

Steve: “Who's there..?”

Me: “Cows go...”

Steve: “Cows go who..?”

Me: “No, cows go moo!”

I’ve since offered my services as a stand-up comedian this July on the Embankment

when a new addition to our city’s events calendar – the Levity Festival – takes place.

For some reason I’ve had no reply yet, but this three-day comedy festival will be showcasing more than 150 acts including Al Murray, Lee Nelson, Chris Ramsey, Stephen K Amos, Ed Gamble, Richard Herring and Phil Cool.

Levity is a first for Peterborough and will be yet another successful event that’s really putting our city on the map. Acts are signing up on a weekly basis so check out www.levityfestival.co.uk for all the latest including ticket information.

HOLYFIELD INSTEAD OF ROY JONES Former world heavyweight boxing champion Evander Holyfield will be the star attraction at the next big boxing dinner at Radius (above The Solstice) in Peterborough on October 2.

Kevin Sanders originally secured Roy Jones Junior for May 11 – the same night as the rearranged professional boxing show at Peterborough Arena (originally scheduled for April 12) – and this meant people had tickets for both events.

Roy Jones Junior couldn’t make an October appearance so Kevin has secured Holyfield, the former undisputed world champion in cruiserweight and heavyweight divisions.

Holyfield is arguably most famous for twice defeating Mike Tyson (one at the expense of a bitten off ear) and notching up wins against other big names including George Foreman, Larry Holmes and Riddick Bowe.

For tickets, call Kevin on 01733 371912 or 07872 601467.

As for the boxing talent on show at Peterborough Arena on May 11, good luck to all the fighters and special mentions to Cello Renda, Sam Barron and Michael Maguire who are all guaranteed to put on exciting displays. www.espmag.co.uk

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Mostly Funny

steve.gonzalez@espmag.co.uk

LET THERE BE LEVITY So the big comedy news this month is the launch of the 'Levity Festival' that will take place at the Embankment on July 19 – 22 featuring over 100 comedians and headlined by Al Murray and Lee Nelson. have a comedy competition with £1000 to win, some free Fosters and a chance to appear on the main stage with a top act, Avalon will also have their full entourage of scouts there."

ESP’s Steve Gonzalez with comedian Matt Forde Organisers Stef Malajny, Tony Scibelli & Mark Ringer (who also runs The Willow Festival) held a launch party at the Town Hall, and after hearing their plans I'm really excited at the scale and ambition of the event. It’ll be held over seven stages on the Embankment with the main stage housed under one of the world’s largest temporary structures ensuring the show will definitely go on whatever the British summertime throws at us.

Weekend tickets for general admission will be £50 which will give you the chance to see a huge variety of stand up comedy, circus acts, music and kids entertainers over the three days. (An extra £10 for each of the three headline evening comedians).

Tickets will be available through national ticket sources such as Ticketmaster, and check out www.levityfestival.com for all the latest ticket news and various pricing options. There will also be details of the Levity VIP experience being run by Syrup Events.

At the time of ESP going to press Stef Malajny told me: "We have already booked over 30 acts through Avalon (one of the UK's largest comedy management agencies) and many more are being booked, we will have three headliners, Al Murray, Lee Nelson and one more to be announced, then approx 10 more well known names such as Chris Ramsey, Doc Brown Alun Cochrane and the Horne section then approx. 30 hot up and coming acts. It will be the biggest gathering of top comedians in the UK for a weekend event, on seven stages and we will have one huge marquee that will seat 10k. We will

At the launch event, I was pleased to see Matt Forde perform who I last met when I was at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival a few years ago. Matt won't be a name familiar to many, but he's a regular on the circuit who hosts a political themed show each week in London at the St James Theatre. If you've ever laughed at any of the jokes on TV show 8 Out of 10 Cats there's a good chance it would’ve been one of his as he writes for the show. Matt also does an uncanny impression of Alan Partridge, so I've challenged Matt to write and perform a routine at Levity on what 'Partridge' would make of Peterborough. I'm sure he won't let me down.

But hey, look, Levity isn't just about me larking around with up and coming stand-up comedians, it's about YOU, the good people of Greater Peterborough, being part of the biggest celebration of live comedy to take place in the UK over one weekend.

Normally an event of this size would take place in a city the size of London, Birmingham, Manchester, Leicester or Liverpool but the fact it's happening in Peterborough is yet another sign that we no longer have to travel to other cities for big entertainment events.

As well as big name comedians, there'll be an opportunity for local talent to shine. The Wildcats Theatre School will be staging performances and workshops over the weekend and running a fully qualified childcare creche and a number of other interactive events are planned across the festival site that people can take part in.

It promises to be a fantastic event, so get your tickets quick because this is one event you don't want to miss out on!

Al Murray headlines at Levity Festival

THE LAST LAUGH I couldn't let this month end, without acknowledging the biggest news stories of the past month. The televised funeral of one of the most powerful and influential people to dominate 1980's Britain. Someone that was loved and loathed in equal measures for their policies and ethics. From their rise to prominence in 1979 to the early 90's when they were ousted from power through to their death in a hotel room in 2013… but anyway that's enough about JR Ewing from Dallas – Let's not forget Margaret Thatcher from Grantham passed away recently too.

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COMEDY GIGS FUNHOUSE COMEDY

May

3

Headlining at the Angel Hotel in Bourne this month is the highly talented observational comedian, Dougie Dunlop. Support comes from David Whitney, a stand-up comedian and actor involved in Fonejaker as well as being a bagpipe player!

Completing the line-up is comedian and writer Jim Campbell who’s written for Russell Howard's Good News. Compere for the night is the friendly and enthusiastic Tiernan Douieb.

Tickets are £5 in advance www.funhousecomedy.co.uk

THE LAUGHTER LOUNGE

May

9

Exercise your chuckle muscles by coming to the first night of a brand spanking new comedy club at Riverside Bar in Stamford. Steve Day describes himself as Britain’s only deaf comedian, if there are any others he hasn't heard! The line up also includes Adnan Ahmed with razor sharp timing and cutting one-liners, Matt Holmes, a charming comedian with a great line in audience banter and Steve Best who’s Frank Skinner’s warm up man. An amazing visual comedian with a mind-boggling array of gadgets and gags.

Pay on the door £9 or £7 in advance on 07738 083233.

FUNHOUSE COMEDY

May

15

Funhouse Comedy brings another night of fun to the North Street Bar in Peterborough.

Headlining is the talented Danny Buckler with stand-up, superb impersonations, story-telling and improvisations. Supporting is Scottish comedian Scott Gibson with brilliant stories and sharp punchlines.

Also appearing will be the laid back Adnan Ahmed with his wonderfully apologetic and passionately perceptive take on various issues. Ben Murray is compere for the night.

Tickets are £7.50 in advance www.funhousecomedy.co.uk

BOTTLE ROCKET COMEDY CLUB

May

17

Headliner Irish comedian Keith Farnan is a TV regular who’s appeared all over the world described as ‘laugh out loud funny’. Support comes from Chris Stokes and Ben Hustwayte in another great night of laughs at the Key Theatre Studio.

Tickets are £8 in advance on 01733 207239 or £10 on the night.

CRESSET COMEDY CLUB

May

31

Topping this month’s bill is Geoff Norcott, one of the finest headliners on the comedy circuit with razor sharp wit and side splitting observations. Providing the rest of the laughs are; Stuart Black with sharp wit and deadpan delivery from this unique rising star, Jez O'Donnell with upbeat material and tales of awkward encounters and compere for the show Phil Dinsdale – gags aplenty from the ex-steel worker and all round funny man. Booking is a must!

Tickets £11.50 in advance on 01733 265705.

“Andy and I met 13 years ago but it was only last year that we decided to foster. It had always been a concern that we would have to quit our jobs and be stay at home parents and as selfish as it sounds, we both love our work, so didn’t want to do that. We both have flexible jobs so we wanted to see if we could work and foster,” Gaynor said.

Ten-year-old Jodie was placed with Gaynor and Andy around two months after they were approved.

Children of all ages need fostering and people with all different lifestyles are needed to foster. Fortunately, Gaynor and Andy made the call, arranged an initial meeting and met with a social worker.

“It’s really wonderful to be able to offer our love and care to someone and help support the recovery process with their birth parents. We’re in our ninth week now and Jodie is thriving at school, I think the stability has really helped.

“Jodie lives with us full time but she still sees her mum a couple of times a week at an after-school club and at the weekend which is great for her,” said Gaynor.

“I’d tell anyone who’s even considering fostering to find out more. Jodie is great; quirky and a complete delight.”

Could you give a child a future by offering a loving home too?

Aged 34 Gaynor found out she was unable to have children, however it wasn’t until she met Andy, that they decided to look into fostering.

Gaynor explained: “The initial visit from Peterborough City Council’s social services was great. I felt I could be completely honest about our situation.

“I’d tell anyone who’s even considering fostering to find out more. Jodie is great; quirky and a complete delight.”

“We were very lucky. We had two fantastic social workers doing our training. They were honest and information wasn’t sugar coated.

Peterborough currently has over 300 children in care. Can you give these children a postive future by providing them with a safe and happy home while they are unable to live with their own families?

“We found the training itself very informative and it opened our eyes to a lot of things. The training and assessment can take about six months to complete and people sometimes ask why it takes so long but if you ask me, it’s important that it takes time. It makes sure you really are ready to take on such a life-changing role; it shouldn’t be a decision taken lightly.”

You can foster if you’re single, married or in a civil partnership, if you have children of your own or not. The only requirement is for you to have a genuine interest in supporting children, a spare bedroom, patience and a sense of humour.

Gaynor and Andy were assigned their own social worker from the start to ensure they received all the support and advice they needed.

“Our social worker supported us loads,” said Gaynor. “With it being our first placement, she wanted to make sure we had a good match that we were comfortable with, and we couldn’t have asked for a better placement.”

Foster carers receive a high level of support and training, a fee and a weekly allowance for each child that is fostered.

If you have the time to make a child feel wanted and an important part of your life for as long as they are in your care, please visit www.peterboroughfostering.co.uk or call Peterborough City Council’s fostering team on 01733 317427.

It's a Royal

Affair... he season for hearing those bells ringing is fast approaching and it's not just the wedding bells but those also at the starting gates of the yearly horse racing events. Whenever I watch the coverage of Ascot it always looks like a multitude of wedding parties have all culminated in one area, so I thought I'd show you a few of my favourite dresses that will see you through both diary events!

T

A very good friend of mine has an addiction to Ted Baker and upon visiting their concession within John Lewis Peterborough I could see why. They come up trumps in my opinion for occasion wear. Their collection this season is truly beautiful from the cut of the dress to the fabric and colour. I could instantly visualise every one of their beautiful dresses hanging in my wardrobe, but as I'm not able to get to any of the races this year could one of my friends please get married soon… No pressure. Thank you!

Fascinators are a fantastic alternative to hats and prevent that awful ‘hat hair’ effect. John Lewis in Queensgate have a great selection of both hats and fascinators at reasonable prices to add that finishing touch.

Summer seems to be dragging its heels this year but don't despair – the colour that’s been injected into our high street this season will lift those winter blues. Now that's a sure bet!

Natasha Fierro

Styling: Natasha Fierro Model: Face of ESP, Simona Bajorinaite Hair: Melania Galeano, Pkai hair Hampton.

Photos: Andy Vernum @ Studio One

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(Main image left) Dress, Ted Baker @ John Lewis - £199 Fascinator, John Lewis - £80 Shoes, stylist’s own (Blue dress left) Dress, Ted Baker @ John Lewis - £159 Bag, John Lewis - £39 Fascinator, John Lewis - £80 Shoes, stylist’s own (Short yellow dress right) Dress, Ted Baker @ John Lewis - £159 Bag, John Lewis - £39 Shoes, stylist’s own

www.espmag.co.uk

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Spring, Summer Sparkle Now In Stock

Home Cooked Food with locally sourced produce served all day.

• In car entertainment • Custom built stainless steel exhausts • Modifications/tuning • Hands free kits and parking sensors • Car sales ... and much more.

• • • • •

Sky Sports Open Log Fire Warm welcome 4 Real Ales Live Entertainment at the weekend (See ESP Gig Guide or website)

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

Ice House, Fengate, Peterborough PE1 5XB

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

For car sales tel. 01733 358161 For ICE tel. 01733 555550 www.carcitypeterborough.co.uk

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

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.

• Become a Trainee Fitness Professional • Increase your employability skills and opportunities • Guaranteed interview for all our qualified Level 3 Personal Trainers

0192 3693 721 info@pocketfit-training.com www.pocketfit-training.com

Stilton Cheese Rolling special buffet Bank Holiday Monday May 6th Stilton Cheese Rolling special buffet £6.95 pp, 12 noon -5pm and £7.95pp 5pm -10pm À la carte menu also available.

Special Tuesday night banquet (every Tuesday) 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.

Please note: There will be an additional charge of £2.50 for King Prawn Dishes & Angel Special Dishes/House Special Dishes.

Special Sunday all day buffet 12noon – 10pm

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

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.

paparazzi Caught in the act?

CHARITY NIGHTS, LAUNCHES AND YOYO! Angel Spice in Stilton held a fantastic charity race night which raised loads for the RAF Wings Appeal. Former Face of ESP girls Lauren Hughes and Susan Saunders were there to join in the fun at this fantastic night. Photographer Mike Harris was our guy capturing the fun.

YoYo is a brand new night that’s taken over Thursdays in Peterborough, literally! For the first time ever Broadway’s biggest bars Edward’s, Flares, Yates’s and College Arms have combined under one brand! YoYo, brings four different venues together for one massive night! Photographer Mitch Brewster was behind the lens.

And Andy Vernum snapped the action at the launch of the huge Levity Comedy Festival coming to the city this July – we can’t wait!

View all our Paparazzi pictures on www.espmag.co.uk or our facebook page.

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Sarah Tempest

ESP’s Sarah Tempest talks fighting spirit with Amelia Lily...

he term ‘roller coaster’ is often overused but they’re the perfect words to describe the career so far of 18 year-old singer Amelia Lily. First appearing on our screens in the 2011 series of X Factor, Amelia was famously sent packing by her mentor Kelly Rowland on the first live show before being sensationally voted back in with a massive 48% of the votes after another contestant was disqualified (thank you Frankie Cocozza and your dedication to partying). Amelia then went on to win third place in the competition behind Marcus Collins and eventual winners Little Mix.

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In the 18 months since then, Amelia’s stolen the show on the X Factor tour, released three singles, supported Girls Aloud on their farewell tour and is about to release her debut album Be A Fighter. In amongst a whirlwind round of TV appearances and promotion, the pink haired popster found time to pause for breath with ESP magazine and talk style, music and a campaign close to her heart.

“I’m really tired,” she laughs “but you’ve got to work hard and I enjoy my job. In fact, I love it! My new single Party Over is currently available to download on iTunes – it’s a drum and bass track and it’s about a break up, like the end of a party, but I wanted to put a spin on it and make it an upbeat song so people don’t feel depressed.”

All in all, things are going pretty well for Amelia Lily. She bubbles over with excitement and enthusiasm for her music and her work – “I am so excited about my debut album being released in May. I feel like I’ve been working on it now forever, obviously since the X Factor, but I took my time because I want it to be perfect and I didn’t want to just rush something and regret it afterwards. I wanted to be really proud of it. My favourite track on the album is The Hills because it’s the most personal song to me. I wrote that song about my life and the journey I’ve been on to get to where I am now.” And she freely admits that the setbacks she’s suffered and the hard slog to carve a career post X Factor are what inspired the album’s title Be A Fighter. “Everyone’s seen how tough my journey’s been,” she says, “I’m not always getting the easier route and I want people to be inspired by that, like ‘if I want to do something I’m going to get up and fight for it’!”

Despite all the ups and downs, one thing that hasn’t changed is her style, and she’s remained true to the ‘rock chick’ look that we came to recognise her for on X Factor. “With my style, I’ve never really looked up to anyone on a fashion term, I always just kind of wore what I liked, what I felt comfortable in, and what I felt suits me best.

“My pink hair is my little trademark. It went pink on the X Factor, they just felt it would suit me and I was pretty scared when I got it done but I did it. When I went back blonde last summer I kind of missed my pink hair so I went back pink.” And

at the mention of Helen Mirren copying the trend, Amelia roars with laughter – “I know! How weird!”

As well as her dedication to her music, Amelia’s been unveiled as the latest celebrity to support the Make Mine Milk campaign and the charity Beat Bullying, launching a new competition for creative youngsters across the UK called Find Your Voice. The competition invites young poets and songwriters to write a short piece based on the subject of ‘finding your voice’ or beating bullying, and the winning entry will be produced as a song and performed by Amelia Lily herself. “I really want to be able to inspire kids who at school aren’t being accepted for who they are and what they like. I went through that and I think kids look up to me and think – ‘Amelia went through it, no-one really accepted her or understood her but look what she’s doing’.”

Amelia recently supported Girls Aloud on their final tour before announcing their break up and is set to perform with JLS, who also recently announced they’re to split. She laughs off the suggestion that she may be a bit of a jinx but all the same, One Direction fans must be praying she doesn’t tour with them anytime soon! “Supporting Girls Aloud was unbelievable,” she says,“I had such an amazing time. The girls were so lovely. It was crazy! I went to see them four years ago and then four years later I’m opening for them. How did that happen, like seriously?! I definitely had to pinch myself.”

Back on the subject of her career, Amelia cites watching her first single climb the iTunes

chart as one of her high points, although her reaction was somewhat unusual – “I actually threw up with excitement!

The nerves and stuff just got to me but it was really funny at the time!

“My hopes for the next five years are to keep doing what I’m doing now and hopefully travel more and release four albums. I want to grow and grow and grow. I’m still really young, I’m only 18 and I think I forget that sometimes but I grow and learn more each day.”

With her determination, focus and fighting spirit, there’s no doubting that Amelia Lily can achieve it all starting with her debut album Be A Fighter which is released for download on May 20. www.amelialily.com Read Sarah’s full interview with Amelia on www.espmag.co.uk

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Gavin Miller

gavin.miller@espmag.co.uk

Movie Previews

STAR TREK: INTO DARKNESS Released: May 9. Cast: Chris Pine, Benedict Cumberbatch, Zachary Quinto. Director: JJ Abrams

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

After being head-hunted by Disney to take over The World’s Most Famous Movie Franchise TM with the new Star Wars sequels – director JJ Abrams will be able to show off his credentials with the highly-anticipated sequel to his Trekkie reboot.

of Star Trek films, 1982’s Wrath of Khan – remains to be seen, as Abrams continues his ability to keep all secrets under lock and key.

He’s promised more action after 2009’s origin story, and the buzz has been off the chart following the exhilarating trailers which points to this being one of the biggest movies of the summer.

One thing’s for sure, it will be up to the Enterprise’s Kirk (Pine), Spok (Quinto), Uhura (Zoe Saldana), Chekov (Anoton Yelchin), Bones (Karl Urban) and Scotty (Simon Pegg) to find a way to stop this menacingly tagged ‘one man weapon of mass destruction’ – as Kirk leads a manhunt on a world that has turned into a war zone.

The big question is whether Brit Cumberbatch’s turn as main villain John Harrison will actually lead to him being the great Khan – seen as the best baddie from the first run

And we’ll soon see if everything Abrams touches (bar M:I-3) continues to turn to gold – before he takes on the biggest challenge of his life . . .

THE GREAT GATSBY

FAST & FURIOUS 6

THE HANGOVER: PART III

EPIC 3D

Released: May 16

Released: May 17

Released: May 23

Released: May 24

Leo DiCaprio re-teams with Romeo + Juliet director Baz Luhrmann in this remake of the hit Robert Redfordstarring film. Tobey Maguire’s wannabewriter Nick Carraway gets caught up in the glitz and glamour of early twenties New York chasing the American dream, when he moves next door to mysterious party-giving millionaire Jay Gatsby (DiCaprio). As he gets drawn into a captivating world of money, love and deceit – which includes his cousin (Carey Mulligan) and her husband (Zero Dark Thirty’s Joel Edgerton) – he pens an extraordinary tale in an era of loosening morals, bootlegging kings and sky-rocketing stocks, that ultimately leads to tragedy.

Despite escaping from Rio with a $100m in cash between them, the lives of Dom (Vin Diesel), Brian (Paul Walker), Mia (Jordana Brewster) and co. are incomplete after being scattered across the globe unable to return home. But when Dwayne Johnson’s (he is literally in everything at the moment) Agent Hobbs offers to give them full pardons if they help him track down a gang of skilled mercenary drivers, the gang push the pedal to the metal once more in an attempt for freedom. The only snag is the gang’s second-in-command is Dom’s exgirlfriend Letty (Michelle Rodriguez) who he thought was dead. Note: That was not a spoiler if you watched the end credits of Fast Five.

The Wolfpack – Bradley Cooper, Zach Galifianakis and Ed Helms – re-unite for one last time as the hit franchise will undoubtedly rule this summer’s comedy blockbuster roost.

Fortunately it seems director Todd Phillips has ditched echoing the premise of the excellent original – with déjà vu haunting the passable sequel – by taking a different tack, which sees the boys on a road trip (which may still have a touch of Vegas influence). The returning Doug (Justin Bartha), Mr Chow (Ken Leung) and Jade (Heather Graham), are joined by John Goodman, and Bridesmaids’ Melissa McCarthy, who has it in her contract to appear in everything even remotely comedy-related from now on.

Getting quickly out of the animation blocks before Despicable Me 2 and Monster University are unleashed later in the summer – is this William Joycepenned adventure from the makers of Ice Age. A teenage girl is magically transported into a dream-like forest world we didn’t know existed – involving a battle between good and evil as the Leaf Men take on the evil Spider Queen.

A star-studded cast including Amanda Seyfried, Josh Hutcherson, Colin Farell, Christoph Waltz, Chris O’ Dowd, Beyoncé, and erm, R‘n’B star Pitbull, will hopefully give the first big-budget animation a chance to earn some big bucks before the highly-anticipated sequels hit hard.

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ONLI REVIENE WS For the latest m from E ovie reviews SP, visi t: www.e spmag .co.uk/ review s

BIOSHOCK: INFINITE (360/PS3/PC) Out now

If you thought moving Bioshock skywards from the iconic underwater world of Rapture was a mistake – then fear no more.

The sweepingly fantastical steampunk-inspired ‘city in the clouds’ metropolis of Columbia is simply a pleasure to journey around (preferably by the awesome skyline roller-coaster system) – but when its dark secrets are unleashed it becomes one of the most compelling first-person shooter adventures of all-time.

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As broke ex-war vet Booker Dewitt, your mission is to rescue mysterious young girl Elizabeth, who’s been imprisoned since childhood – but with evil villain The Prophet, Motorised ‘Big Daddy-esque’ Patriots and gigantic robotic menace the Songbird on your tail, you’re in for one hell of a ride.

Irrational Games have undoubtedly served up an early contender for the Game of the Year – and have continued the Bioshock legacy in a simply jaw-dropping fashion.

SNIPER: GHOST WARRIOR 2 (PS3/360/PC) Out now Sniping games have been hit and miss in recent years, with 2012's solid Sniper Elite V2 setting the benchmark.

That was, until Ghost Warrior 2 donned its ghillie suit and vastly improved on the very basic – albeit popular – original.

Playing as special-ops sharp-shooter Cole, you'll provide tactical support on hot zones ranging from the modern day Philippines to war-torn Sarajevo back in the 1990s.

With the multiplayer a non-event, the testing campaign – although at times a little linear – offers a solid story that'll really make you care about your comrades.

ARMY OF TWO: THE DEVIL’S CARTEL (360/PS3) Out now It's all change for the third Army of Two title – but sadly this is the weakest release in the series to date.

Gone (at least as playable characters) are series stalwarts Salem and Rios, with newcomers Alpha and Bravo taking the 'bromance' reins.

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.

Sadly the game follows a pretty linear pattern, with wave after wave of cartel mercenaries forcing you into a pretty repetitive cover and shoot routine.

The new overkill mode, which renders you invincible and provides unlimited ammo is pretty cool, though.

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Best played co-operatively with a mate, The Devil's Cartel is good mindless fun – but ultimately brings nothing new to a shooter-heavy market.

TIGER WOODS: PGA TOUR GOLF 14 (PS3/360) Out now With Tiger back on top of the golfing word, it's fitting that EA Sports' ever-impressive series is back on major-winning form too.

Having tweaked last year's all-new (and slightly annoying) swing system, shooting a round has never been so good – with five new courses and four new players available in the core game.

While the incredibly in-depth career mode is still the obvious highlight, the all-new 'Legends of the Majors' offering is a welcome addition – pitting you against golfing royalty like Jack Nicklaus and Seve Ballesteros in their prime.

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With typically crisp graphics and all four majors now playable for the first time, Tiger's latest round hits an albatross – making it undoubtedly the best version in the series to date.

Two unique sites and different styles of gaming.

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

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

Competitive Prices Private, corporate and open days catered for.

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

Thanks to Andy Clucas for reviews of Call of Duty: Black Ops II & Assassin’s Creed 3.

Thanks to Andy Clucas for reviewing SNIPER: GHOST WARRIOR 2, ARMY OF TWO: THE DEVIL’S CARTEL and TIGER WOODS: PGA TOUR GOLF 14

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Cunning AI, coupled with the smooth visuals provided by the CryEngine 3, makes this first person shooter an unexpected direct hit.

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YOYO ‘YOU’RE ONLY YOUNG ONCE’

Another incredible act comes your way this month in the shape of Sankeys newest resident in Ibiza... Finnebassen!

Having broken through last summer with bassful, melancholic releases on Noir; Such A High and Touching Me have surpassed 2 million plays and still counting on YouTube! Finnebassen's rising stardom and dreamy sounding sets have seen him land a residency at Sankeys Ibiza this summer, headlining the Sankeys Ibiza 3D parties with the likes of Darius Syrossian; Nina Kraviz & Shawdowchild every Thursday night. Finnebassen will be flying straight to the UK after his set at Sankeys to play at Mixology on Friday May 24. You may not be able to get to Ibiza, but you'll be able to see one of the hottest properties in Ibiza live at Red Room on Broadway – UK exclusive!

‘MENAGE A TROIS’ LAUNCH

YoYo is a brand new night that’s taken over Thursdays in Peterborough, literally! For the first time ever Broadway’s biggest bars Edward’s, Flares, Yates’s and College Arms have combined together! YoYo, brings four different venues together for one massive night out every Thursday!

The YoYo Easter Special event was the busiest ever night in Edward’s history! For videos, up and coming themed events, premium drinks deals and give aways, check out www.yoyoclubnights.com and search YoYoClubNights on Facebook, Twitter or YouTube!

OFFICIALCLUBNIGHTS @ HALO Peterborough's craziest party is back on Friday May 3 with the Neon Jungle! Expect nothing less than 3D lazers, confetti cannons, supersize LED glowsticks, giant cannons blasting jets of smoke and a huge UNDR influence brand giveaway. Meanwhile Ghost is home to the OVOXO Party with a chance to win tickets to see The Weeknd live! Join the guest list now at facebook.com/officialclubmusic.

DOMUS DEEP HOUSE Domus returns on Friday May 10 with local DJs Zoe Roberts, David Dews, Miss Purdy, Jamie J Simms, Jaun Baptiste, Dan Gilcrest and Roughly Sealed for a night dedicated to deep house, tech house, indie disco and nu disco. It's Friday night at Halo which means £1.50 Jagerbombs and ladies drinks for 1/2 price all night with a ladies pass. Text 'Halo Domus + Full name' to 87202 to join the guestlist for £2 off entry before 12.00.

Ménage à Trois is a whole new experience launching on Friday May 10. Expect a glamorous, lavish and exquisite night including five DJs spread across three rooms, international dancers, Co2 freeze jets, chocolate fondue, LED glow batons, signature pink champagne reception and a brand new VIP area! Check out www.facebook.com/MenageNights to find out more, guest list availability and VIP table reservations.

SOULJAM

VANITY @ RED ROOM

IBIZA ANTHEMS WITH DAVE PEARCE

Vanity takes over the Red Room once again on Friday May 3 bringing you the finest selection of urban music around from its resident DJs Nick T & Silky D whilst Detox takes care of the hosting duties. Check out the freshest urban night around as this month they host a YMCMB Records Special Event. Check them out on Facebook for a link to their latest event. Facebook.com/VanityNights. For VIP tables text / call 07925 958898 or email efrbookings@gmail.com.

DISCO INFERNO @ FLARES Get ya dancing shoes ready! Disco Inferno is back again Friday May 17!

Theodore Supafly, Ginger Jones and the Flares team are going to be partying from 10pm till 3am to the 70s, 80s and 90s with cocktails, bombs, sharers and teapots 2 for 1 all

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Fall in love with music again on Friday May 17, Halo's brand new old school night launches with garage legend Kele Le Roc alongside local sensations Rayan Gee from Shades of Rhythm, DJ T-Rex and DJ 173. Expect old school RnB, garage & rare grooves with ladies drinking half price all night with a free ladies pass.

Get ready for summer as BBC Radio’s Dave Pearce headlines the Ibiza Anthems night at Halo on Friday May 24. Playing classic and current Ibiza anthems from the last two decades. The promoters are really going to town on this one so expect impressive live drums and percussion, dancers, lazers, video screens and a Co2 cannon! As well as Dave Pearce playing one of his legendary sets he’ll be supported by a host of DJs. Grab a flyer for £1 off admission and visit the facebook page.

KARMA Friday May 31 sees Karma Parties return to Halo on payday weekend; the best music, the right crowd and an unmistakeable atmosphere. There’s a reason this party attracts nearly 1,000 people every month! Go to www.facebook.com/karmapartiesgroup to find out more..

SPANK This night just keeps getting bigger! Peterborough's busiest bank holiday event is back at Halo on Sunday May 26 for the next instalment of R’n’B, hip hop, UK funky, old skool garage an bashment.

HOUSE PROUD @ THE SOLSTICE House Proud are back by popular demand on the SolGarden (Solstice) terrace with two outdoor Bank Holiday events. The first instalment on Sunday May 5 is another 12 hour special running from 2pm – 2am with a BBQ throughout the day with free admission! Resident Russell James who has seven tracks due to be released will be joined by some very special guests including Jack Your Body regular pURDie. The second 12 hour instalment on Sunday May 26 will see Russell joined by Kris Aldworth who has a his own residency at Secret Soirée in Sheffield. Expect upfront house with support from Drew Tilney, Juan Baptiste, Miss Purdy and other local DJs. There’s more on Twitter @houseprouduk and the House Proud Facebook page.

PETERBOROUGH PASS TO PARTY Liquid, Envy, New York New York and Bar Rock have joined forces with taxi drivers from; Peterborough, March, Stamford, Wisbech and Market Deeping for an unbelievable offer. Your taxi driver will complete a Taxi Pass with the date and amount of your fare, and the club will give you the value of your fare back in drinks vouchers! This offer is valid on a Friday and Saturday night and only valid when paying the full entry price. Call 01733 898005 for the taxis taking part.

ATTICA VIP NIGHTS

Thursday May 2 it’s time to ‘take off’ and a night at the club on Broadway could see you win a fabulous holiday for two to Ibiza!

Friday is the start of the weekend people and Attica VIP is where to get your ‘Satisfaction’ with their famous cocktails just £2 all night! There are more drinks offers too and plenty of giveaways so book yourself into one of the gorgeous VIP booths and kick start your weekend.

Saturday is the big night when the club hooks up with Belvedere vodka to add a playful touch to your night. You can win a 70cl bottle of Belvedere every week and shots of the vodka are £3 all night.

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JOIN US FOR A HIKE UNDER THE STARS! It's not too late to sign up for this year's Starlight Hike, and help raise money for the new hospice at Thorpe Hall and ESP Magazine is once again supporting this great charity event.

there’s always such a great sense of friendship and achievement on the night. The first year I walked with friends, however last year I signed up on my own. But that didn’t make a difference, because I quickly met other walkers and talked all the way round.

The Starlight Hike is a 10K walk around Peterborough, and the route will take in the grounds of the Hospice so for those who’ve never been you will see what you’re raising money to support.

“I’d definitely recommend taking part to anyone.

Even if you sign up on your own you’ll soon meet some amazing people and you will really feel a sense of achievement."

Face of ESP Simona Bajorinaite says – “This is such a good night I hope lots of people will get involved and help Thorpe Hall’s 60th anniversary appeal, it’s such a fantastic local cause.”

So come on folks – if you’d like to register to take part, simply log on to www.sueryder.org/starlighthike and register for the Peterborough event.

“Starlight Hike was well organised, safe, fun and the marshals cheered us on all the way. The lovely welcome back we received when we completed the walk, with a bacon sandwich and a cup of tea, made you really feel like you’d achieved something.

The walk will take place on Sunday May 26 – bank holiday weekend – and will start and finish at Peterborough Greyhound Stadium. Walkers will be setting off as the sun sets at 8pm for a fun-filled stroll around the local area.

Everyone who takes part will receive a T-shirt, a goody bag, a pin badge and refreshments once they’ve finished.

It really is a great fun event and is open to men, women and children. Sue Matson ahs walked it before and told ESP – "I walk for Thorpe Hall Hospice in memory of my sister, Alison, but not only that,

ESP will be there to capture the action too. Registration is £15 for adults with children under 16 free.

However, if you’d like to join up as a team of four you’ll receive a group discount – simply email alison.toomey@sueryder.org to receive your promotional code or call the fundraising team at the hospice on 01733 330060.

Supported by

ROYAL SEAL OF APPROVAL FOR NEW HOSPICE Already the Thorpe Hall totaliser has topped the £1 million mark and it’s continuing to head upwards towards the £6 million target which is fantastic news.

The money will be used to build a state of the art hospice adjacent to the current one at Thorpe Hall, in Longthorpe. It’ll also fund the further development of the hospice’s community and day service, ensuring even more people across the region are able to receive the incredible care on offer.

The appeal launch was marked by a visit from the Duchess of Gloucester who spent time with patients, staff, volunteers, supporters and local school children, who greeted her with a rendition of the Gary Barlow tune Sing.

“I know Peterborough needs this and what better location could you have found than in the walled garden here.”

After planting an evergreen camellia, the Duchess said – “I wish the hospice appeal all possible success. I know Peterborough needs this and what better location could you have found than in the walled garden here.

Photos: Mike Harris

Vintage tea parties, balloon races, marathon running efforts and the royal seal of approval have all helped give the appeal to build a new hospice in Peterborough a flying start.

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ESP Magazine is supporting the campaign so if you’re fundraising for the project, just let us know and we’ll spread the word! www.espmag.co.uk

“I believe we have an obligation to make sure that patients who are reaching the end of their lives receive all the comfort and support they need. In this new hospice the dedicated team of doctors and nurses will be able to provide the very highest standard of end of life care in the very best environment."

Philip Ball is the hospice’s palliative care services manager. He showed the Duchess around the current hospice.

“The whole team worked hard to prepare for the event and on the day that paid off. Everyone who attended was able to enjoy an exciting and entertaining afternoon which was the perfect launch pad for the appeal. The staff are now looking forward to the next two years which will see building work start and, ultimately, the move into the new building."

The appeal is set to last two years with the building of the new hospice scheduled to begin in 2014. Information about the new hospice can be found on the website www.thorpehall.org

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HEALTH & VITALITY with Karen Devine

karen.devine@espmag.co.uk

In her bid to help you improve your vitality ESP’s Karen Devine says it’s time to beat the stress factor…

B

oosting energy and vitality may be a multi goal approach from eating well, getting good sleep, good levels of sunshine/fresh air, appropriate levels of exercise, having more fun and enjoyment, as well as working on areas that may be draining your vitality such as career, finances, relationships etc.

Some find their work/life areas are in equal balance but many don’t, which leads to us feeling less content and more stressed or burnt out than ever before.

Stress is a word we generally use to describe a feeling we have, which most people describe when under stress as feelings of anxiety, nervousness, tightness in the chest or other areas such as the gut, excess sweating, rapid breathing, sleep issues, nausea, frequent tension headaches and more.

Stress is a response from our body from a stressor either outside or inside of us. Our body’s well equipped to deal with stress. When a threat is detected our brain will release hormones which, with accurate precision and through a series of hormonal signals will then stimulate the glands of stress (adrenal glands) to release our ‘fight or flight’ hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol to help the body protect us from a threat either real or perceived.

Today, we find that our stress signals are continuous with our modern day living. We have more toxins in the environment and in our food and drinks to deal with, as well as more stress from jobs, finances, world events, family pressures as well as how we look and fit into this world. All this can put a strain on other areas from our relationships or how much joy we feel in our lives.

The stress response can also be triggered by old painful events that are still running like a projector in our minds which still cause the same stress response.

So even without an outside threat apparent we can still send the stimulus which makes our body ‘feel’ it is under attack.

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• Inflammation • Fatigue • On an emotional, psychological level we can feel low in mood, tearful, angry, hopeless and more

body balance, Tai Chi etc to lower stress hormones.

Being in constant ‘fight or flight’ mode is not good as our body is not recovering from one stressor to another – a good analogy is to imagine at the beginning of a 100 metre sprint race, the body’s preparing for the flight action as you’re on the starting blocks waiting for the gun to start the race. Ongoing stress can be like this but the gun never goes off so your body is stuck in its ‘fight or flight’ mode sending unending stress signals out, robbing us of vitality.

Get a massage or other good body work.

Stress related illnesses are now known to cost millions of pounds in lost production at work which is the reason I deliver a series of stress related talks around the UK as many companies recognise that stress can underpin so many illnesses that can cause sick days.

Interesting too when asking how people generally deal with stress you find many eat more sugar rich foods, drink more alcohol or caffeine drinks, (some turning to recreational drugs) in an attempt to numb down the stress or draw our more energy or lift their low mood! We’re less likely to opt for healthy foods when under stress (some even avoid foods).

Dealing with stress is vital if you want to improve your health, wellbeing and overall vitality and energy.

There are many stress reducing programmes and techniques which can help, as can seeking professional help for ongoing issues.

Other ways that might help include…

Place some calming music in the car (one that’s recommended whilst driving!) Or play calming sounds around the home.

Buy some guided mediations – I can’t express enough how powerful meditation has been in my life in recent months.

Stress robs our nutrients and our vitality as it can lead to more burn out or fatigue, trying to eat healthily when stressed can be difficult but making one or two small changes can start you on a healthier, more wholesome path. Once you start with the little changes you’ll find that you take the next few steps and on it goes, so consider some or all of the following this week: • Start the day with a higher protein breakfast adding in eggs, nuts, seeds, yoghurt and ensure good quality protein at all other meals during the day • Cut back coffee/tea drinking, and sugar • Eat less processed foods or fake foods • Avoid the energy drinks which give a temporary lift in fake energy but drop it sharply an hour or so later • Hydrate – if you’re not drinking water then start with one or two small glasses each day and build up Supplements can be helpful but always get advice from someone qualified to give advice and always double check if you have any health issues or are on any medications first.

Getting out in nature – even if you’re in the city working you may find an area where there’s some greenery. If you can, take your shoes and socks off and place your feet onto the grass and connect with the earth.

Get help for ongoing life challenges to help you find your way back to the wellbeing your body craves.

Unresolved stress may lead to many health complaints and that stress response may create symptoms affecting many areas such as –

Breathing techniques – deep breathing as opposed to the shallower breaths taken when we’re stressed.

• Digestive, hormonal, weight, sleep or immune symptoms

Try some exercise if you are not doing any, and if you’re doing too much cardiovascular exercise maybe try some more balancing exercises such as yoga or

Coming Soon – My new website with my new brand is currently under construction. I’ve been developing my skills as a life coach over the past months and will be launching my new transformational coaching programmes as well as my new wellbeing and retreats programmes to add to my nutritional work.

www.espmag.co.uk

Karen www.karendevine.co.uk

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"Our physiotherapist led team offer a professional and friendly service that is tailored to meet the needs of each individual client. We aim to optimise performance through a range of services including musculoskeletal Physiotherapy, modified Pilates, sports massage, rehabilitation and education."

gateway Park, Newcombe Way, Orton southgate, Peterborough, Pe2 6sF t: 01733 235226 w: www.upll.co.uk e: contact@ultimateperformancelifestyle.com

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HealtH

Put your best foot forward

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

charlotte.jolly@espmag.co.uk

With summer (supposedly) just around the corner make sure your feet are sandal ready with Marble Hill’s Pedisalve foot care. This 100% natural moisturising cream for feet and heels is the only additive free foot cream and is perfect for those of us with cracked heels, corns and calluses as well as Athletes Foot and fungal infections.

Developed and blended by Dr Maria McGee, this intensive cream made with argon oil and shea butter melts on contact with the skin and lasts four times longer than most other creams as it hasn’t been diluted with water. Use Pedisalve as often as you like but ideally after a bath or shower when skin is warm and flexible. I love to use mine last thing at night before I climb into bed and pop on the free cotton socks, giving maximum time for the cream to work its magic.

Not only is it great for dry, cracked heels or unsightly corns but it’s also been approved by Diabetic specialists and is an excellent total foot care for Diabetics. It comes highly recommended by many Podiatrists and is used by both athletes and the elderly as a massage oil to ease muscles, arthritis and promote healthy circulation.

not too PosH

So take my advice and start using this miracle foot salve twice daily NOW to ensure that your feet are in tip top condition and fit for public viewing in time for sandal season. Phew!

Phone 07759 956464 or 02871 357128 or alternatively visit www.marblehillonline.co.uk to order yours now.

to Pedal

On Tuesday May 28 I’ll be cycling from Peterborough United FC to Brussels, Belgium. Some of you may think that I’m mad but I can assure you I’m not! This larger than life 300 mile bike ride is all in aid of raising money for The Free Kicks Foundation, which gives deserving children fantastic days out at football. This can involve spending the day with their chosen team, taking a tour of the stadium and even taking a free kick in front of the home crowd.

As if biking to Belgium isn’t enough I’m also doing it on a tandem (yes a tandem!) with my cycling enthusiast boyfriend. But don’t be fooled into thinking this means I can casually sit on the back relaxing and not pedalling (I wish!); if anything I have to cycle twice as hard to make sure we keep up with the rest of the group on our old, heavy but beautifully crafted Mercian touring tandem. It does however mean that I can ride with no hands (allowing me to re-apply lip-

gloss as and when I desire ☺) as well as taking lots of photos along what’s going to be an amazing journey.

With 20 of us in total taking part in this four day challenge we’re going to need a heap of enthusiasm, lots of carbohydrates (yippee) and a colossal amount of support so please, please dig deep and sponsor me.

The more we can raise the more smiles we can put on underprivileged children’s faces so believe me when I say that all donations are gratefully received www.justgiving.com/Charlotte-Jollycyclestobelgium I will of course update you all on how we got on upon my return and there will of course be photos to follow so watch this space.

Wish me luck…

buy of tHe montH May’s buy of the month is Liz Earle’s Instant Boost skin tonic. Recommended to me by none other than my Mum, I finally got round to buying some and have been more than impressed to say the least. This refreshing toner has a subtle yet gorgeous floral scent which for me adds a special touch of femininity.

This alcohol free skin tonic not only soothes but it also brightens and moisturises.

Simply pour onto cotton wool and sweep over your face and neck after cleansing both morning and night. With aloe vera, chamomile and cucumber it tones, refreshes and revitalizes; what more could a woman want? My skin’s never looked or felt so good – I am officially hooked!

Available at John Lewis in Queensgate or visit www.lizearle.co.uk

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Hair today, Here tomorrow Say goodbye to fine, flat hair with the new Nioxin shampooing products available at Melanie Richard’s Hair Boutique. These Award Winning hair products promise to deliver thicker, fuller looking hair in just 30 days guaranteed or they’ll give you your money back. Not only do they have millions of loyal customers already in the USA, but they’ve also been the winner of the Stylist Choice Award for an outstanding 10 years in a row!

If you’re fed up with limp, lifeless looking hair then why not give the Nioxin starter pack a go, containing cleanser, conditioner and scalp treatment all for just £29.50. It’s suitable for both men and women of all ages who experience thinning hair. There are many causes of thinning hair (stress, diet, medication to name a few) and it can be triggered at any point in someone’s life but with Nioxin’s 20+ years of experience and research you can regain your confidence and make the most of the hair you have.

Give your hair the loving care and attention it deserves and pop on down to Melanie Richards on Bridge Street, Peterborough or give them a call on 01733 553600.

WHITENING WEDNESDAY Come and try one full session on our LIPOBELT FAT REDUCTION system for £10 and see the difference - results are immediate!

Our range of treatments helps to correct previous damage, protect and enhance your skin.

• Acne and acne scarring • Body sculpting • Fine lines and wrinkles • Hair removal • Nail fungal • Rosacea and redness • Rejuvenation • Sun damage • Thread veins

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

Every Wednesday in 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.

We also offer LIPOBELT low level laser body sculpting fat reduction.

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

5F Aston Business Park, Shrewsbury Avenue, Peterborough, PE2 7BX 01733 305102 e: info@mybodyessentials.co.uk w: www.mybodyessentials.co.uk

Student Discount Mon-Thur 10% off hairdressing

Senior Citizen Discount 20% off hairdressing on Wednesday's

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30mins for £10, 60mins for £17, 120mins for £30 or 50p per minute - over 18 only.

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Look on our website for monthly promotions.

Open Mon-Wed 9-6pm, Thurs 9-8pm, Fri 9-7pm, Sat 8.30- 5.30.

s Rd

Bishop

Rivergate

A15 Bridge St

P We are here

Key Theatre

NEW ERA @ EYE FOR RIVA Independent Italian restaurant Riva will be reopening this month at its new home in Eye. After four years at the Key Theatre Riva has now moved and begins a new era at the former I Toscanini restaurant site on Peterborough Road.

Owner Chris Falco told ESP – “Moving out of The Key Theatre was a time of mixed emotions; sad to be drawing a line under four wonderful years there, but excited to

be moving on to bigger and better things.

This move gives us a wonderful building with a rich history dating back to the late 19th century. It allows us to offer our dining experience to a larger number of customers but still providing an intimate ambience. We are just three miles from our old location, literally a five minute drive from the city centre.”

Chris added – “We’re excited to at last be the sole occupants of our premises, allowing us to make it whatever we want it to be. The free car parking is an added bonus. We believe Riva can now offer customers our ‘true taste of Italy’ without the hassle of trekking into the city centre.”

Riva’s unique menu and customer service has built a loyal following of customers and everyone’s keen to see how the new venue looks.

Meanwhile Café Clarkes is moving into the Key Theatre premises and you can read more about that on page 9 of this issue.

www.riva-restaurant.co.uk

STROMBOLI COMES TO CASTOR

THE PARCS IS AN AWARD WINNER

There have been a few changes at the former Fratelli restaurant in Castor – now relaunched as Stromboli.

We have to say a big congrats to the Parc’s Restaurant following its recent awards for service, quality and cuisine.

Proud owner Rocco Femminile who also runs Fratelli Tavola Calda in Rivergate tells us Stromboli uses the original menu he started off with 25 years ago when he started in

The restaurant at Peterborough Regional College has successfully gained a number of awards during this academic year including a Gold Accreditation from the Hospitality Guild and an AA College Rosette. The college based training restaurant is staffed by students from the hospitality and catering courses whilst being taught and supervised by immensely skilled lecturers, who have many years of experience in the industry. The tutors ensure the students work to a professional standard, preparing them well for future careers in their chosen field.

the restaurant business. So, you can expect some wonderful Italian classics all freshly cooked from local produce. And look out for their amazing flambé dishes which certainly add some drama to your dining experience.

You can book on 01733 380251.

Both awards were awarded for quality and consistent standards of hospitality, service and cuisine.

Parcs Restaurant is open during term time, Monday to Friday for lunch and they also offer special theme evenings on a Thursday evening throughout the year. The food offers fantastic value for money so why not take advantage of the students’ superb cooking skills!

For more info call 01733 762189 or visit www.peterborough.ac.uk

CHEF MOVES DOWN THE LINE Whether you’re visiting the Museum with family or just fancy a break in the middle of the working day, the Coffee House is the perfect place to relax!

Photo: John Moore

Offering a selection of great tasting coffee, warm beverages, delicious homemade cakes and freshly-prepared sandwiches, the tasty menu also includes cream teas, Tasca bread pockets, Danish pastries, muffins, crisps and snacks.

NEW SQUIRES COFFEE HOUSE @ MUSEUM Don’t miss out on taking a trip to Peterborough Museum to enjoy some tasty treats in the recently opened Squire’s Coffee House.

Coming soon! Free Wi-Fi access, making Squire’s Coffee House ideal for informal business meetings or as somewhere to work with a ready supply of excellent coffee. Plus meeting spaces in the Museum are available for hire.

Call 01733 864663.

Now this isn’t just another Italian restaurant – this one provides a true taste of Italy serving up delicious traditional style, small oval pizzas from Rome called Pizza a Taglio.

They’ve even brought in a chef from Rome to get them just right and promise you’ll really notice the difference with the distinctive style of dough and toppings.

Carmine Pacca has opened up the business with his cousin and while it’s only open during the day at the moment they intend to open up as an evening restaurant in future.

STOP OFF FOR PIZZA AND COFFEE The dining out scene really is flourishing in the city centre with another great addition – Pizza & Coffee on Bridge Street.

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They’re offering some great delicious ‘deal meals’ for just £5.99 which should fill you up a treat and include a drink too. They have a great range of Illy coffees too so sit back and watch the world go by Rome style!

The closure of the Lakeside café in Peterborough’s Nene Park has proved to be a boon for another local attraction.

Noted local chef Charlotte Freeman who used to run the successful Lakeside enterprise has moved just down the line to head the catering at the Nene Valley Railway.

If the idea of a station café puts you in mind of curling British Rail sandwiches, rest assured that nothing could be further from the truth!

“Even things like a simple sandwich should be made freshly and using real bakery bread, not appalling supermarket white,” says Charlotte.

As well as fresh homemade dishes Charlotte’s real love is cakes and pastries, along with a proper cup of coffee or a decent cup of tea.

The Nene Valley Railway’s Turntable Café is situated just off the A1 at Stibbington and is open seven days a week from 9am to 4.30pm.

Traditional warm welcoming atmosphere

FAMILY DAY Sunday 5th May • Bouncy Castle • Band Zebrootz • Fun and Games

KARAOKE every Tuesday with Mighty Mouth - Trevor Smith

FATHER’S DAY

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

Sunday 16th June – 3 course Carvery Lunch £12.95pp includes a gift for all fathers.

• 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

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

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

Stamford CALLING STAMFORD GUY ENDURES ‘7 DAYS OF PAIN’!

STAMFORD DEBUT FOR THE BIG FIGURE Indie rock band The Big Figure make their Stamford debut at Mama Liz’s Voodoo Lounge on Friday May 17. The four piece band from Glasgow will play songs from their new album Creatures and from their 2011 debut album Laugh Like Clowns.

Four marathons and three 110 mile bike rides in just seven days.

Could you do it? Luckily you don’t have to, but five men will indeed be attempting this amazing feat of endurance which began on April 30. The challenge aptly named ‘Seven Days of Pain’ was thought up by Stamford business owner Aaron Day and friend Corporal Michael Gambling.

Running for charities the RAF Benevolent Fund and The Connor Wright Schwachman-Diamond Project the five men will be finishing their ordeal on Monday May 6, by participating in the Milton Keynes marathon.

Aaron Day told ESP – “After running the London marathon last year I wanted to do something different, something amazing that might make a bit of history.

“The route we’re taking covers 17 ordnance survey maps which gives you an idea about the scale of the challenge. With the other four lads being in the RAF, the Benevolent Fund was an obvious choice, but I wanted to include the Connor Wright Project because Connor’s actually a close friend of mines cousin and the condition is one that doesn’t get enough awareness.”

Having recently been the opening act for well-known artists such as Status Quo and Jools Holland, The Big Figure now bring their refreshing and unique sound to Stamford as part of their first UK tour as headliners.

Schwachman-Diamond Syndrome is a rare genetic condition which affects multiple systems particularly the pancreas, bone marrow and the skeleton.

They’ve received rave reviews from audiences around the UK, with many likening them to Snow Patrol and Coldplay among others.

To donate or sponsor the team go to www.justgiving.com/teams/sevendaysofpain. Alternatively you can donate by text by texting the message CRPD followed by the amount (e.g. CRPD£10) to 70070.

Support comes from local singer songwriter Lexie Green who performs a mix of blues, Americana, rock, folk and even a touch of soul and Lincoln based band I Am The Dice who take inspiration from various genres to create their own sound.

Good luck guys!

Alex Jones

BATTLE OF THE BANDS Round two of the East Midlands Battle of the Bands takes place at the Hole in the Wall in Stamford on Friday May 24. The competition which is hosting heats in Grantham, Derby, Newark and Nottingham will be pitting the best local talent against each other with a spot in the semi-finals on June 22 up for grabs.

STAMFORD CAKE CLUB QUENCHES ITS THIRST Following the success of April’s ‘Quench Your Thirst’ theme at the Stamford Clandestine Cake Club, May’s event will be themed around another favourite British drink. Tea! On Tuesday May 7 the club will be hosting a ‘Treat Yourself Tea Party’ held in the Town centre.

Organiser Sophie Douglas told ESP – “Since the BBC's 'Great British Bake Off' series, amateur bakers have come out of the woodwork and want to share their hobby with others. Our group gives like-minded people a social way to make friends and eat great cake together. We meet in different, secret locations every month — it's an exciting, underground movement!”

This month's event will also be in support of the animal charity Blue Cross. For more info on the Stamford Clandestine Cake Club visit www.clandestinecakeclub.co.uk.

Alex Jones

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Finalists in the competition have the chance of winning a number of great prizes including recording time at Curly Lead Recording Studios, equipment, promotions, branding, a chance to play on the Majick Music Group’s tour and much more!

The crowd will decide the winners on the night so get down there and show your support! Doors open at 7.30pm. For more info on the Battle of the Bands Alex Jones competition visit www.majickmusicgroup.com.

HARDEEP SINGH KOHLI COMEDY AND COOKING Comedian, TV personality and cook Hardeep Singh Kohli is bringing his new live show Indian Takeaway to the Stamford Arts Centre on Friday June 7. Following the success of his other live shows, Nearly Naked Chef and Chat Masala, Hardeep invites you to an evening of comedy, cooking and curry. But it’s much more than just a laidback cookery show.

At the beginning of each performance Hardeep will order a takeaway live on stage for delivery to the theatre, having selected a local Indian takeaway from audience suggestions. He will then order an audience member’s favourite meal and whilst waiting for the order to arrive, cook his own meal.

Two curries with side orders of delicious cooking tips and lip-smacking comedy. What’s not to like?

Tickets are £15 (£13 concessions) and are available from the box office on 01780 763203 or by visiting www.stamfordartscentre.com.

Alex Jones

Tickets are £5 (£7 on the door) on www.wegottickets.com or at the door on the night.

WE THREE KINGS OF ROCK ’N’ ROLL The classic rock line up to end them all comes to Stamford Corn Exchange on Saturday May 25 with the show We Three Kings of Rock ‘n Roll. Featuring excellent tributes to Buddy Holly, Billy Fury and Elvis Presley, prepare yourselves for a show filled to the brim with singalong classics.

Created by acclaimed producer Marc Robinson, this show is performed by three West End performers.

Tickets are £15.50 (14.50 concessions) and are available from the box office on 01780 766455 or by visiting www.stamford-corn-exchange.co.uk.

Alex Jones

WHO DARES INKS TATTOO REMOVAL Matt J Tattooist Tattoos • Custom drawn artwork • Cover Ups • Revamps • All genres catered for Before

After

4 HOUR DEAL - £150 (hourly rate £50)

Getting inked is more popular than ever and there are some great artists out there, but what if you’ve made the wrong decision?

Maybe your tattoo wasn’t done by the most talented tattooist, or the design hasn’t aged well… or maybe that girl whose name you had emblazoned across your chest has ditched you!

Whatever the reason you might want to lose your ink there’s a new tattoo removal service available at Who Dares Inks in Stanground.

Owners Anj and tattooist Matt J have expanded the business after three years in Stanground and have moved up the road into larger premises so they can offer more services. Friendly and welcoming they pride themselves on really listening to what you want and always offer a free , no obligation consultation before carrying out a tattoo, but while Matt produces some great artwork they know that sometimes people have made mistakes. They now offer the Sapphire II Nd: YAG laser treatment that effectively removes tattoos and offer single sessions from £20 or packages starting at £150.

Another addition to the studio is Cosmetic Tattooing carried out by Thea Pearce, a trained artist with five years experience. This technique means you can have permanently great looking features and can throw the make-up bag away!

PUB GUIDE s New

Laser Tattoo Removal Sapphire II Nd:YAG laser Packages available starting from £150, single sessions from £20 Cosmetic Tattooing Treatments carried out by trained artist Thea Pearce (5yrs exp) Eyebrow and lip contours, HD Brows.

2 Church Street, Stanground, Peterborough, PE2 8HE

Tel: 07594 474732 facebook.com/mattjtattooist Email: whodaresinks@live.co.uk

The Talbot Inn • Monday – Poker night from 7.30pm • Wednesday – Steak night from 6pm • Thursday – Quiz night from 8.30pm • Friday – Fish & Chip night from 6pm • Sunday – Sunday Roast 12.00pm – 3pm • Real Ales • Extensive Beer Garden • Fresh homemade food.

5 North Street, Stilton, Cambs, PE7 3RP Tel: 01733 240291 www.facebook.com/talbotstilton www.talbotstilton.co.uk

Photo: Mike Harris

The Ploughman

Congrats go out to Andy Simmonds who’s still reaping the rewards of his efforts over at The Ploughman pub in Werrington.

Andy and his team there have been presented with a Campaign For Real Ale (CAMRA) Gold Award.

CAMRA spokesman Karl Simpson from the Peterborough branch told ESP – “Since reopening only a short few years ago Andy’s done a fantastic job in establishing the Ploughman as one of the city's top real ale pubs. He’s now introduced another two hand pumps meaning there are ten in total giving drinkers an even greater choice of beers all served in typically great condition.

“Through inclusion in the national Good Beer Guide the Ploughman receives many visitors each year from outside of Peterborough and

Andy is often complimented on what a credit to the area the pub is.

“Being a proud Werringtonian Andy embraces the spirit of the local community and this is obvious as soon as you enter the premises and talk to the many regulars who use the pub.”

Don’t forget there are also the Community Tearooms which he introduced last year and of course he’s well known for his charity fundraising events the ESP team have often joined in with. Great going Andy – it’s well deserved!

Congratulations also go out to Bram and the guys over at the Hand and Heart in Millfield, who received their award for ten consecutive years in the Good Beer Guide.

• 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

ADVERTISE HERE To advertise your pub here for only £16 per week call Sales on:

01733 579707

Free listings for your live entertainment included Email: office@espmag.co.uk

Paul Blant...

Young Paul on the drums

From humble beginnings watching his Uncle Terry’s dance band to schmoozing and playing alongside Brit Pop indie gods Shed Seven, Paul Blant has quietly built up a career of more highs than lows.

It was whilst watching The Terry Mann Band and tapping out a natural rhythm on his legs that uncle Terry first suggested he should play the drums and like most 11 year-old’s would do he turned to his mum and dad for the kit – “They were rock ‘n’ rollers so they were into music, they didn’t mind.” Jamming with his cousin who played guitar, Paul still has a cassette of their stuff – “It was pretty good actually.”

Deciding that as well as coming quite natural to him, he also liked the drums, lessons were the next step. Jim Luff of Stix Music (the more advanced in years will remember the shop) was his teacher in the early days. “Andy Clifton was getting lessons at the same time,” Paul tells me. However like most mid teens,

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andy.slater@espmag.co.uk

Andy Slater

We have some great musicians in the city and Andy knows most of them! This month he chats to talented local drummer

Fleeting Minds

Paul was interested in what mid teen boys do and drumming became a secondary subject…

It wasn’t until he was 17 and started having lessons with Spike T Smith that he says things changed –“I got in a band called Boomerang World, they were all proper musicians, older than me. We did originals and toured quite a bit really.”

Gigs on the university circuit and at the BBC in Shepherd’s Bush led to a video shoot on Cathedral Square, heady stuff for a fresh faced 17 year old…

After the usual fizzle out Paul played in lots of bands for short periods of time one with the fabulous name ‘The Flaming Underpants From Mars’!

After a year at the Musicians Institute in London studying drumming and staying in Plumstead playing alongside Diego and Steve Honey, he ventured back to Peterborough and joined up with Dave Reid in his band The Imposters, latterly The Contrast. “The Loan Sharks asked

me if I could do a gig for them and I said OK, but couldn’t do any more because of my Imposters work,” says Paul. That was early 1997 and early 1999 the Loan Sharks had morphed into the Setting Sons and the most amazing two years had passed. “You were there Andy, (I was, I was their manager) there were some crazy gigs, we out sold Joe Strummer and Kula Shaker at the Wedgewood Rooms in Portsmouth, we were like celebrities – fans clapped and cheered before we went on stage!”

There were also fights and riots, none more so than at the Victoria in Derby – “When you tell people they don’t believe you.” I was there Paul it was mental, tear gas, police, fire engines windows being smashed in, the lot, folks you better believe it!

An appearance on Live and Kicking by way of lead singer Mark Betts got them playing live on national television and cuddling up to Zoe Ball which was the only time I recall bass player Paul Allen

(Loop) being nervous.

After the band’s demise due to work commitments Paul auditioned and got a gig with up and coming indie band The Dandys. Paul recalls – “They were mates with Shed Seven and the night of my audition I slept on the bass player’s settee!” This was 1999, smack in the middle of the Brit Pop era. “We supported the Sheds on loads of gigs up and down the country. I played the Leeds Refectory which was awesome because my favourite band The Who recorded Live at Leeds there.” The gig lasted two years and Paul’s adamant that’s the closest yet he’s come to making the big time.

Paul’s son Tom arrived in 2001 and the realisation that steady money had to come into the household hit and Paul had to leave The Dandys and get his head down with some steady work.

Another ‘can you fill in’ moment arrived with Citizen Smith and it was a moment

that endured seven years until 2008… you all know the band and the music, it was a fabulous set.

Paul now plays with The Fleeting Minds, something he tells me he’s really enjoying – “Me and John worked in the Live Music Shop together every day, we get on, we are good mates so playing in a band with him is great.” He describes their music as 1960’s indie. I wouldn’t argue with that.

With one album in the bag and ready to be promoted and toured (produced by Matt Lawrence, Adele’s producer) and lots of new tracks in the can Paul is looking forward to getting out there again.

Their single She’s My Rock and Roll is available to download on iTunes and you can check out the band on www.thefleetingminds.com

• Weekly live music (see ESP Gig Guide) • Live Sports – showing all major Premiership and Championship games • All real ales £2.20 per pint • Join our Facebook site – Dragon,Werrington

Beer Festival Weekend German themed BBQ, Tigger’s bouncy castle and live music.

Friday 24th May – Rocket 57 Saturday 25th May – from 3pm The 707, Saturday night Citizen Smith Sunday 26th May – from 3pm Open Mic, Sunday night The Nuggets

Paul with Zoe Ball

Speaking to Paul one word shines through in all his recollections, ‘proud’. He’s proud of being a drummer, he’s proud of having been in some great bands and proud of making some amazing music. He should be, I have worked with Paul first hand, not on stage but at the side which is a perfect place to stand and witness what a brilliant drummer he is. Whether it’s in a black suit pounding out the Tommy Gun rhythms of The Jam or some fluid beats of his love for indie, Paul Blant is one of the best.

FESTIVAL OF THE MONTH

Here’s a cracker for all you mods and ska fans out there, Back With The Mods over at the Santa Pod drag racing venue looks like a belter.

Not only is it a celebration of the Mod lifestyle but a celebration of the music, scooters and everything that goes with it.

Hodgson Avenue, Werrington, Peterborough, Tel: 01733 578088

EVENTS FOR 2013 AT THE PLOUGH, FARCET FEN 18th May

19th - 21st July

1940s Spitfire Ball

Bikes-Trikes and stuff 10th Anniversary Bike Rally

e: moremuzicevents@gmail.com

14th/15th/16th June

Soul & Motown Weekender e: the-plough@hotmail.co.uk

e: bikestrikestuff@hotmail.co.uk 01733 896002

17th August

The line up is really good especially as tickets cost £35 in advance and that includes camping. So who’s playing? The Selector, Bad Manners and Neville Staples to start with, add to that a Paul Weller tribute and a Small Faces tribute and that £35 seems like a steal.

21st - 22nd -23rd June

Medieval Night

Country and Western Weekender

e: the-plough@hotmail.co.uk

28th September

Those who’ve not been to Santa Pod are in for a surprise. You can mooch around the whole site with your own alcohol except for Fuellers bar where they expect you to buy from the bar which is fair enough.

e: the-plough@hotmail.co.uk

e: the-plough@hotmail.co.uk

You’ll find loads of stalls, a fairground, proper loos and showers, run what you brung racing, jet cars, stunt riders and monster trucks. It’s a redneck, hillbilly, petrol head hoot without the great music that the organisers have lined up.

As well as the headliners there are DJs playing everything from reggae to classic mod tunes and a dozen other bands playing throughout the daytime.

If you don’t fancy watching music in the day, as long as it’s dry there’ll be loads of action on the drag strip to keep you occupied.

So for £35 you can’t really go wrong, tickets from www.backwithmods.co.uk – maybe see y’all there!

Beer Keller night

PLEASE CALL THE PLOUGH ON 01733 844307 OR 07763 978616 FOR FURTHER INFO AND TICKETS.

keith.dalton@espmag.co.uk

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

M

usicians are a bit like nature. After a winter in relative hibernation, they burst into life in spring. And let’s hope that after the terrible weather at the start of spring, that we get some good weather for May, because this month heralds the start of the all day live music festivals.

MORE ACTS JOIN THE WILLOW FESTIVAL LINE-UP

Quite a few to mention and you get the facts on this page…

VIPERS GIG HAD BITE

Great night for all of us at the Brewery Tap a couple of weeks ago as the Motor City Vipers performed a sell out gig in aid of Sue Ryder at Thorpe Hall under the Randall Rootz banner.

MCV emulated their gig at last year’s Beer Festival and performed a vibrant soul set which packed the dance floor.

The countdown is on to The Willow Festival on the weekend of July 12 to 14 – ESP is right behind the event and we can’t wait so let me update you with the latest news…

Groove Cartel’s Martin Ferguson started the evening with an excellent mellow set that brought a great atmosphere to The Tap.

They're bringing in a structure to cover the main stage area which, the organisers claim, means that the show can go on come rain or shine!

I thought it was a perfect evening for soul fans.

DEEPING STAGE LIVE

This innovative outdoor structure is one of the largest temporary structures in the world possibly the third largest that we know of.

This means that hopefully it won't fall foul of the good old British summer and it means that the Festival will maintain its outdoor feel.

The Willow Festival has traditionally engaged approximately 120 bands annually and achieved this figure on its hugely successful return to the Peterborough Embankment last year. Obviously the organisers announce the full line-up nearer to the time and we at ESP will keep you up to date with the news about who’s appearing, but two names who’ve recently been added for Sunday July 14 are The Floe and Straw Bear.

Two Bank Holidays in May. This means two band days at The Deeping Stage. The first is on Sunday May 5. As usual the event is scheduled for out the back of The Stage, starting at 3pm with live music all the way through to 11pm with performances from Oak, Lee Major, Twenty4 and Circa 73.

After 11pm music continues indoors until 1am.

FLOWERS AND TUNES

It’s the Spalding Flower Parade on Saturday May 4 with fantastically decorated floats taking over the town centre watched by thousands of visitors from far afield joining the many local admirers.

To celebrate that world renowned festival, there’s a live music event for all the family being held on the same day at The Birds in Halmer Gate from 1pm until 7pm. There’ll be an outdoor staging area and beer tent, a BBQ and funfair and the music too will be aimed at the whole family. The acts confirmed already are The Sound Injectors, Gypsy Heart, Derico and female duo Kindred, with further additions expected.

For more info phone 07790 547464.

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Photo: Dan Donovan

The second Bank Holiday Sunday is May 26 where the same timings apply and the four band bill is Conspiracy Club, Fat Chance, Slide to Open and New Generation Crash & Burn.

The Floe

The Floe are Sarah Springett and Liz Thownsend who perform as a piano/vocal group accompanied by string support. They have a new single released, Headlights which is getting great reviews.

Straw Bear also play TWF on Sunday and they have a new album release Black Bank, which has enjoyed extensive airplays including from Whispering Bob Harris and Dermot O’Leary on BBC Radio 2 and national stations.

Now for 2013, the organisers have announced another revolutionary idea. They’ve teamed up with a number of local music venues (The Solstice, The Palmerston Arms, The Voodoo Lounge, The Crown and North Street Bar) to develop a TWF acoustic arena that’ll add at least another 30 acts to the festival line up.

The added bonus is that many of these acoustic acts will also be appearing at those venues in the coming weeks as part of a showcase for the up-coming festival and its acoustic stage. The venues currently have 26 gigs planned between them.

Straw Bear

SOUND CENTRAL IN THE PARK Here’s one to get down in your diary for next month. Sound Central is running again in Central Park on Sunday June 9. It’s all taking place from 12.00 – 6.30pm and there’s a great bunch of bands and artists appearing. The line-up includes Opaque, Burning Codes and Latino Sound. As well as music there’ll be a selection of Peterborough’s best poets. There’ll also be a range of workshops, demonstrations and stalls from the likes of Beat This, Green Backyard and Handmade in Peterborough.

The Willow Festival is free to enter and further info can be found at www.willowfestival.org plus keep an eye of www.espmag.co.uk

PEACOCK LIVE MUSIC FEST

Anavae are live wires

Firstly, indoors there are performances from some very promising acoustic singer/songwriters including Ian Bourne, Aleatoric, Amy Simpson, Christian Smith, local performer Dame O Fitzpatrick, Amy + Jack and Bondy.

There aren't many bands around today with as much faith in the internet and new technologies as that of Anavae, a female fronted alternative rock group from London, with a splash of Peterborough flavour. In fact talking to guitarist and song writer Jamie Finch and drummer Seb Gee is an eye opening experience into just how much the internet has contributed to the band’s very existence.

The Peacock on London Road holds its 2nd Music Festival on Saturday May 18, and features a very diverse line up in two distinct performing areas.

Outside there’s a purpose built stage where during the day you can see sets from Take The Shot, The Black Cases, Hannah Faulkner and Bad Touch.

Local upbeat reggae band Lowland Skank will be making their debut, followed by performances from The Liquor and blues band, Uncertain Midnight, The Imprint and Backlash Blues Band. The evening comes to an end when Marotte will be headlining the outdoor stage at approximately 10pm, and back indoors the line up will be completed at 10.30pm by Sofasonic.

Everything will be complemented by the usual Peacock hospitality.

Jamie – “We needed a drummer, so I literally typed in the words ‘drummer’ and ‘London’ into YouTube and Seb popped up! His videos were great and yeah... I invited him to audition, and it was pretty clear after that meeting that he was the drummer we were looking for.”

FALCON CHARITY LIVE NIGHT

Seb Gee, the Peterborough ingredient to the Anavae recipe, is someone who falls under the category of 'YouTube success story'. His channel, consisting of drum covers and tutorials currently has over 3.5 million views (!) and almost 10,000 people have subscribed to his channel. Having played in a variety of locally based bands (including a stint in a group unfortunately called 'Julio the Leopard') he recently brought his latest project back home for preparations before their first UK tour.

There’s a great evening in aid of the Epilepsy Society assured at The Falcon Hotel in Whittlesey on Saturday May 25. It features four bands playing live with headline act The More I See. The support comes from three local bands: Quit to Main Menu, Roses of Humanity and Divided We Fall.

The night kicks off at 8pm and is sure to be a good one in aid of a great cause.

Tickets are just £2 on the door and for more details or any queries email: xxhovisxx@gmail.com

LESLEY CURTIS RELEASES NEW SINGLE Following the success of her debut single, taken from her new album, Naked, Oundle’s Lesley Curtis, has released a follow up – Look Tomorrow In The Eye – very recently and has high expectations for the single.

On Friday May 3, Lesley is set to appear in the local area with her band at the South Holland Centre in Spalding.

Lesley and her band perform an original blend of English folk, country and bluesy rock… and they can’t wait to hit the stage. “We’re really looking forward to this,” Lesley told ESP. “It’s the first time for us to play South Holland – and we hope it’ll be the start of a long relationship.”

Lesley will be supported by talented singer/songwriter Meg McPartlin. The show starts at 8pm.

Reserve tickets by calling the box office on 01775 764777. Information at www.southhollandcentre.co.uk

Signed to LAB records alongside acts such as HelloGoodbye and Young Kato they were recently play listed by both Kerrang TV and Scuzz TV, music channels which are available on digital television. Usually an exciting moment for up and coming bands...

Jamie – “Yeah when we were first told about it, I didn’t really see the point. Our videos are online anyway so you can view them whenever. I suppose it validated our success to a degree but I’m not really into it.”

Seb – “The internet is so much more powerful than TV now, it gives you immediate feedback and the power to see how many people like your video, plus you don't rely on people watching a certain channel at a certain time for your video to get exposure.”

It's a bold statement of forward thinking which stays in tune with how the band have approached things so far. Their first E.P was released with a Radiohead-esque 'Pay what you want' system, they’ve hosted a live streaming gig online which utilised a 'tip jar' set up where you pay to watch and they have a Twitter following which is 50,000 strong! Three methods of promotion unheard of a decade ago.

This slightly alien approach is paying dividends in a big way, and it looks as if things in the Anavae camp are about to get hectic. So with the stages looking to get bigger, who does the band want to play alongside in the future?

Jamie – “Well we love movie soundtracks, so performing or collaborating with someone like Hans Zimmer is the dream (Laughs)… that would be interesting!”

Seb – “We’re big fans of Mallory Knox and We Are Fiction so to share a stage with them would be pretty cool.”

Ah yes, We Are Fiction. Another local band making waves on the national rock scene. Can we expect a homecoming gig featuring the two acts in the near future?

Seb – “We’re trying to organise something soon actually, which would be very special for me so keep your eyes peeled.”

Fingers crossed! Until then you can catch Anavae online or on tour, where they spend most of their time nowadays. They’re keeping themselves busy because as they say in new single Storm Chaser – ‘It’s easy to strive for perfection when you’re never bored’.

Alex Jones

19 North Street Peterborough PE1 2RA

01733 343785 northstreetbar.co.uk

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Live music sets from 11pm

Served till late every Friday and Saturday night

THU MAY 2

KICKBACK

MON MAY 6

THE OVERDUBS

THE INFLUENCE

THU MAY 23

LIVE BAND

FRI MAY 31

OPEN MIC

The Straw Bear, Whittlesey

CLADDAGH + THE ONE EYED CATS

The Ploughman, Werrington

The Swiss Cottage, Woodston

OPEN MIC

The Cock Inn, Werrington

CUTTIN LOOSE

THE ZOOTS

THE INTRUDERS The Parkway Club, Peterborough

Mama Liz's, Stamford

FRI MAY 3

KNOBWORTH FESTIVAL The Angel Inn, Yarwell

The Golden Pheasant, Etton

The Cock Inn, Werrington

ADAM ELLIS The Fayre Spot, Bretton

MOTOR CITY VIPERS

THE GUARDS

The Falcon, Whittlesey

TRIPLE 7

The Talbot Inn, Stilton

SAT MAY 11

WED MAY 8

The Cherry Tree, Oundle Road

BE BOP A LULAS

RED BIRD

The Letter B, Whittlesey

SAT MAY 18

The Jubilee, Bourne

DRUMBLUIE BAND

CITIZEN SMITH The Swiss Cottage, Woodston

The Dragon, Werrington

RAMSHACKLE SERENADE

FROM THE STICKS Charters, Town Bridge

North Street Bar, Peterborough

HOOKER

RED BIRD

The Cock Inn, Werrington

The Jubilee, Bourne

KICKBACK

RIFF RAFF The Cherry Tree, Oundle Road

The Blue Boar, Eye

LEON

THE COUNTRY KNIGHTS

The Ploughman, Werrington

LESLEY CURTIS AND BAND South Holland Centre, Spalding

The Golden Pheasant, Etton

THE GUARDS The London Inn, Stamford

LOOSE ROCKET The Railway, Boston

MAXWELL HAMMER & SMITH The Cherry Tree, Oundle Road

THE HIGH ROLLERS

THE RELICS

The Birds, Spalding

THE NUGGETEERS CUTTIN LOOSE

ABBALARF The Carpenters Arms, Stanground

DETOURZ The Stage, Market Deeping

FILTHY LUCRE The Old John Clare, Paston

GONE TO THE DOGS The George, Oundle

DRUMBLUIE BAND The Swiss Cottage, Woodston

GIZZ BUTT + ALTERNATIVE BORO

The Carpenters Arms, Boston

The Cherry Tree, Oundle Road

JOE SOLO

HOLLOW BODIES + TIME WILL TELL

The Woolpack, Stanground

KERRY DEVINE Three Horse Shoes, Werrington

KINGS OF EDAM The Jubilee, Bourne

KNOBWORTH FESTIVAL The Angel Inn, Yarwell

LIVE BAND The Swiss Cottage, Woodston

OAK + LEE MAJOR + TWENTY4 + CIRCA 73 The Stage, Market Deeping

KAMIKAZE HOTSHOT + THE RELICS TEQUILLA The Dragon, Werrington MOCKINGBIRD + TOM & PETE RATPIGEON + MIDNIGHT DOGS The Talbot Inn, Stilton Mama Liz's, Stamford

The Met Lounge, Bridge Street

The Stage, Market Deeping

The London Inn, Stamford

THE GANGSTERS

JOEL & MARTHA

The London Inn, Stamford

BE BOP A LULAS

Exeter Arms, Barrowden

The Swiss Cottage, Woodston

JUNK PUPPETS

THE LES WOODS BAND

GRUMPY OLD MEN The Ostrich, North Street

The Bluebell, Dogsthorpe

St Marys Church, Whaplode

The Cross Keys, Oundle Road

PENNYLESS John Clare Cottage, Helpston

The Cherry Tree, Oundle Road

THE HARDWAY FAMILY

THE 707 UK

RAMSHACKLE SERENADE

The Carpenters Arms, Stanground

Ebeneezers, Grove Street

ROCKET'57

THE INFERNAL SEA + KARHU + ICONS

The Dragon, Werrington

Mama Liz's, Stamford

TEMALLICA

Mama Liz's, Stamford

FRI MAY 17 CIRCA 73 ELVIS TRIBUTE

PENNYLESS

The Cross Keys, Oundle Road

MARK KEELEY'S GOOD ROCKING TONIGHT

Charters, Town Bridge

The Braza Club, March

STEEL UNION

PENNYLESS The Masons Arms, Bourne

REVOLVER The Axe & Cleaver, Boston THE COLLABORATORS SHANE POOLE

The Cock Inn, Werrington

THE RETURNS The Dragon, Werrington

THE SOUND INJECTORS Old Coach House, Market Deeping

SUN MAY 19

The Axe & Cleaver, Boston

THE MILLIONAIRES

The Falcon, Whittlesey

THE NUGGETS

Working Mens Club, Sawtry

KICKBACK The Cherry Tree, Oundle Road

REVOLVER Bourne Festival, Bourne

The Brewery Tap, Westgate

THE PULSE

THE NUGGETEERS

The Golden Fleece, Stamford

North Street Bar, Peterborough

ZAKK ZOOTS

ZEB ROOTZ

The Swiss Cottage, Woodston

The Cock Inn, Werrington

SUN MAY 26

Charters, Town Bridge

SAT JUN 1

GROUNDED CONSPIRACY The Straw Bear, CLUB + FAT Whittlesey CHANCE + SLIDE HOOKER TO OPEN + NEW The Ploughman, GENERATION Werrington CRASH N BURN The Stage, THE RELICS Market Deeping

The Cherry Tree, Oundle Road

The Ploughman, Werrington

DARREN JONES The Jubilee, Bourne

UNDERCOVER

THE RAINMEN

JAZZ BAND

The Cock Inn, Werrington

The Cock Inn, Werrington

Three Horse Shoes, Werrington

SUN JUN 2

LIVE BAND

Mama Liz's, Stamford

DR A'S RHYTHM & GROOVES

OPEN MIC + THE NUGGETS

TUE MAY 21

FRONT COVER

The Jubilee, Bourne

The Dragon, Werrington

RATTLESHACK + SERIOUS SAM BARRET

OPEN MIC WITH DAVE AN PHIL

The Stage, Market Deeping

The Boat Inn, Whittlesey

GRUMPY OLD MEN

Mama Liz's, Stamford

WED MAY 22 FISH (MARILLION)

Ebeneezers, Woodston

KICKBACK

The Stage, Market Deeping

THE BIG FIGURE Stamford Corn Exchange, Broad Street + LEXIE GREEN + I AM THE DICE WILLOWFEST Mama Liz's, Stamford ACOUSTIC SHOWCASE

HOOKER

THE GUARDS

The Napolean, Boston

MIEKA PAULI (USA) + SUPPORTS

The Fayre Spot, Bretton

Three Horseshoes, Werrington

The Swiss Cottage, Woodston

THE GUARDS

Mama Liz's, Stamford

O'Neill's, Broadway

CUTTIN LOOSE

The Carpenters Arms, Stanground

THE JETS + EL CAMINO + SUPPORT

SUPERNOVA

SAT MAY 25

The Cross Keys, Oundle Road

O'Neill's, Broadway

LOWLAND SKANK

Prince of Wales Feathers, Castor

UK SUBS + SUPPORT

GOLDEN DAWN

LATESHOW

PENNYLESS

THE MISTREATED

The Cross Keys, Oundle Road

THE MORE I SEE + QUIT TO MAIN SLIDE TO OPEN MENU + ROSES The Golden Fleece, OF HUMANITY + Stamford DIVIDED WE FALL THE GANGSTERS

Three Horse Shoes, Werrington

THU MAY 16

FASTER MUTTLEY

The Cherry Tree, Oundle Road

Stamford Corn Exchange, Broad Street

STEALER

THE CLAIMED

The Masons Arms, Bourne

The Burghley Club, Burghley Square

North Street Bar, Peterborough

The Fayre Spot, Bretton

The Black Horse, Nassington

HOOKER

Prince of Wales Feathers, Castor

ANTIQUES ROCK N ROLL

LIVE BAND

The Stage, Market Deeping

THE 707 UK + CITIZEN SMITH

The Fayre Spot, Bretton

MERCURY

UNDERCOVER

New England Club, Occupation Road

The Dragon, Werrington

The Peacock, London Road

The Cock Inn, Werrington

MOTOR CITY VIPERS

DR A'S RHYTHM & GROOVES

PENNYLESS

LIVE BAND

SHAKE HANDS ERIC

Hole in the Wall, Stamford

Mama Liz's, Stamford

The Cock Inn, Werrington

The Brewery Tap, Westgate

BATTLE OF THE BANDS

The Swiss Cottage, Woodston

THE DEAD RABBITS

Prince of Wales Feathers, Castor

FRI MAY 24

LIVE BANDS

DEFINITELY MAYBES

Mama Liz's, Stamford

SAT MAY 4

THE MORE I SEE + BLACK HAWK DOWN + SUPPORTS

OGDH + TO THE BONES + PSOTY + VILLAIN

THE SOUND INJECTORS + GYPSY HEART + DERICO + KINDRED

The Ostrich, North Street

The Golden Fleece, Stamford

Prince of Wales Feathers, Castor

The Cherry Tree, Oundle Road

FRI MAY 10

BALACORDES + TOURIDION

TWENTY 4

CRASH AND BURN

SLIDE TO OPEN

THE LITTLE DAVE BAND

Deers Leap, Weston

THU MAY 9

LLOYD WATSON BAND

Mama Liz's, Stamford

SUN MAY 5

THE SOUND INJECTORS

Mama Liz's, Stamford

The Swiss Cottage, Woodston

The Swiss Cottage, Woodston

The Late Bar, Bourne

The Firkin Ale, Bourne

WILLOWFEST ACOUSTIC SHOWCASE

UNDER_COVERED

Hole in the Wall, Stamford

The Carpenters Arms, Stanground

LET THERE B/DC The Cherry Tree, Oundle Road

OLLY MURS + STOOSHE + DIANA VICKERS + TICH + ED DREWETT The Embankment, Peterborough

SLIDE TO OPEN

THU MAY 30 OPEN MIC WITH JAMES EDMONDS The Cherry Tree, Oundle Road

Mama Liz's, Stamford

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.

46

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