2012/13 Week 25 Issue 593

FORUM OPENING SPECIAL EDITION

The University of Exeter’s Independent Student Newspaper Tuesday 8 May 2012 • Issue 593 • www.exepose.com • Twitter: @Exepose • www.facebook.com/Exepose

Since 1987 Free Photo: Hannah Walker

An Historic Day

Coverage, comment, the day in pictures: all inside Exeposé FULL NEWS STORY PAGE 3

COMMENT PAGES 9-11

THE DAY IN PICTURES PAGES 6-7

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MAKING THE HEADLINES YEARS

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8 May 2012 |

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XTV were also successful in the pitch to host the 40th National Student Television Awards in April 2013, receiving 75 per cent of the votes. The NaSTA association has been active in the UK since 1964, and the awards have been a yearly event since 1973. The Association exists to offer support and encouragement to student television stations and to represent these stations at a national level, pushing for more recognition within the industry.

Dan Orton, Station Manager of XTV, commented: “I am incredibly proud of XTV and everything the members have achieved this year. To win four awards when you’re up against 31 other stations is a fantastic result.”

“These awards are testament to the hard work our members put into their projects”

News Editors Beccy Smyth & Philip Thomas news@exepose.com Features Editors James Crouch & Megan Drewett features@exepose.com

Exeposé

Dan Orton, Station Manager >> Some of the XTV members who won awards on the night. Left to right: Dan Orton, David Brake, Lindsey Harris and Calum Baker

XTV bags four National Awards Helen Carrington Senior Reporter EXETER University’s student television station XTV won four awards at the National Student Television Awards last week. The Awards were held in Nottingham from the 20 - 22 of April, and

were attended by 32 student television stations from around the country.

XTV won ‘Best Factual’ for Cameo, and were Highly Commended for ‘Best Video to Music’ with Sunday Son’s song Good Intentions, ‘Best Documentary’ with The Longest Week, which documented Welcome Week, and Lind-

sey Harris was Highly Commended for ‘Best Onscreen Female’.

“I am incredibly proud of XTV and everything the members have achieved” Dan Orton, Station Manager

“These awards are a testament to the hard work our members put into their projects and the dedication they have to making high quality student television. I am constantly amazed by the talent that surrounds me and I have no doubt they will build on this achievement and do even better in the future.”

Nominations for NASTA committee members are now open - contact Calum Baker, cb374@ exeter.ac.uk, and Rob Seabrook, rs367@exeter. ac.uk if you’re interested.

Exeter student wows judges on The Voice

Rhyanna Bunniss EXETER student Hannah Berney has made it through to the final 20 contestants in the BBC’s new talent programme, The Voice UK. The 21 year-old History and French student is originally from Chepstow, Monmouthshire. She was torn in her opening blind audition as two judges, Sir Tom Jones and Danny O’Donoghue, both turned around to her rendition of ‘Yoü and I’.

“I wanted people to appreciate my voice for the right reasons. This was an opportunity I couldn’t miss” Hannah Berney Hannah decided to join Team Danny, and has progressed through the ‘battle stages’ of the contest where she sang a duel-style duet opposite Murray Hockridge. Her success at this stage

has guaranteed her a place in the live shows.

The Voice UK has changed perceptions of the television contest culture, as a show where appearance is not initially factored in, giving a focus on talent and ability.

Hannah recognised the alternative nature of the show. She said: “I wanted people to appreciate my voice for the right reasons. This was an opportunity I couldn’t miss.”

On 3 May, she performed the Portuguese song ‘Cancao do Mar’ for Her Royal Highness the Queen at the Forum opening. Hannah has also been a regular performer at Exeter’s Mama Stones since joining the University.

Hannah now moves through to the live shows, the first of which began on Saturday 28 April.

To show your support for Hannah you can follow her on Twitter @HannahBerney or on Facebook via The Voice UK. >> Hannah is through to the live shows after winning the duel round

Photo: BBC

Exeposé

| Week twenty-five

NEWS

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HM Queen opens £48m Forum Beccy Smyth & Philip Thomas News Editors HER Majesty the Queen, accompanied by His Royal Highness the Duke of Edinburgh, visited the University on Wednesday 2 May, where she officially opened the Forum. The Queen’s visit was part of her Diamond Jubilee Tour.

Baroness Benjamin welcomed the royal couple to the University. She said: “Both Your Majesty and Your Royal Highness were with us in 1956 at the very foundation of this university.

“You celebrated our 40th anniversary with us and just a few years ago you visited our Cornwall campus.

“So it is with great joy in our hearts we welcome you back to open our Forum and so begin the next chapter of our history.”

“The visit marked a historic day with the flagship Forum being officially opened” David Allen OBE, Registrar and Deputy Chief Executive The Queen unveiled a plaque to celebrate the opening of the Forum, which received huge applause from the crowd.

During a tour of the new £48 million development, the royal couple enjoyed music and theatre performed by students inside the Auditorium.

They also found out about some of the cutting-edge research the University is currently involved with. The royal couple were later joined by about 270 guests as they enjoyed a Devon and Cornwall-themed lunch in the Great Hall.

Student musicians performed outside the INTO building throughout the day. Hannah Berney, a contestant on BBC’s The Voice, Battle of the Bands finalists, the concert band, Mama Stones house band, New Rockets and Soul Choir were among those who entertained crowds. The day also featured student theatre performances, including excerpts from Shakespeare, which took place outside the Forum.

David Allen OBE, Registrar and Deputy Chief Executive of the University, said: “The visit was a very special celebration and marked an historic day with the flagship Forum being officially opened.”

The Forum consists of a student services centre, learning spaces and the library, a 400 seat Alumni Auditorium, two 60 seat exploration labs, 12 seminar rooms and a variety of retail outlets.

David Allen OBE, Registrar, maintained that the primary focus of the Forum is to enhance the student experience of Exeter.

He said: “What is absolutely essential is that it works for the students.

It needs to be flexible so that if future needs change the buildings can be easily adjusted to suit”.

Photo: Josh Irwandi

>> Students rush into the newly-opened Forum

900,000

The estimated man hours that went into the construction of the Forum Work on the Forum Project began in March 2010. The opening was delayed by four months due to the complexity of the roof. The end product is the re-

sult of 900,000 hours of work, four and a half Olympic sized swimming pools of removed soil and the paving of 2409 metres cubed of concrete.

The construction had to adhere to the University’s move towards sustainability. Accordingly, the thermal performance of the Forum was 10 per cent better than that required by building regulations.

The University funded the Forum through a mixture of methods, includ-

ing bank loans and fundraising. It relied neither on government funding nor on the recent increase in tuition fees to £9000 per year.

The Forum Project is part of a wider £275 million investment on Streatham Campus and most of these projects have now been completed. The final stage is the building of Duryard and Lafrowda residences, which will continue throughout 2012.

Steve Smith interview, page 9

Jubilee Scholarships announced Philip Thomas News Editor IN honour of the visit of Her Majesty the Queen and His Royal Highness the Duke of Edinburgh, the University of Exeter has announced new scholarships for overseas study.

The Queen Elizabeth Diamond Jubilee Scholarships will grant five £2,000 scholarships each year. They are aimed to support students who may otherwise find it difficult to fund an opportunity to study abroad.

Susie Hills, Director of Development and Alumni Relations at the University said: “To mark this historic occasion, we wanted to do something that would continue to benefit our students for years to come.

She added: “The Queen Elizabeth Diamond Jubilee Scholarships will allow these students to take advantage of a life-changing overseas study opportunity, one that may not otherwise be open to them due to their financial circumstances”.

The scholarships, which will begin in late 2012, are funded by gifts from alumni and supporters and have already secured £60,000 of initial funding.

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8 May 2012 |

NEWS

Council leaves University in the dark

Celia Richardson MANY Exeter students have raised concerns about Devon County Council’s plans to switch-off street lights at night in the city.

The Council wishes to save energy and cut carbon emissions in Exeter. If the scheme is implemented, city lights will be switched off between 12.30 and 05.30 every night. The areas of town affected by the switch-off would predominantly be residential, while the city centre and major traffic routes would remain lit. The scheme would reduce the city’s carbon emissions by up to 1,600 tonnes annually, and it is proposed that it will initially trial over the course of six months.

“Considering the sexual assault that occurred in December, I think a lot of people are worried about being out at night” Heather Tarplee, English undergraduate However, the Students’ Guild has expressed serious concern about the plans. There are worries that the switch-off could put student safety and the threat of crime at increased risk, and compromise road safety.

SCIENTISTS at the University of Exeter have created a potentially revolutionary substance named ‘GraphExeter’.

The Centre for Graphene Science began research in 2011. They aimed to create a novel transparent conductor based on graphene and have since claimed that GraphExeter, their resulting product, could offer some exciting possibilities for the electronics industry.

as natural reserves of Indium are depleting. Furthermore, ITO is very brittle whereas GraphExeter is far more flexible and lightweight, which would help to advance wearable electronic devices, such as clothing containing computers, phones and MP3 players.

It is also thought that the product could be used for smart mirrors or windows with interactive computer features.

Dr Craciun further highlighted that because GraphExeter is transparent over a wide light spectrum it would allow solar panels to harvest energy over a broad range of light, resulting in

Halls security scare

Photo: Josh Irwandi

THE University received a bomb threat via e-mail on Monday 23 April.

The e-mail, which targeted Holland and Mardon halls of residence, was later revealed to have been a hoax. The e-mail read, “Two small bombs are hidden in Wills and Durdham Halls. They will explode later today. Take this warning very very seriously”.

It was reported in the national press that a number of other Universities, including Bristol and Durham, received similar threats.

Estate Patrol searched all empty rooms and communal spaces, but nothing suspicious was found.

Emma Payne, VP Welfare and Community, said: “It only takes one person to walk down one street and for it to be dark and for something to happen. I think that is enough to keep a light on.”

The County Council failed to hold a detailed consultation meeting with key stakeholders, including the Guild, before the proposals reached the Cabinet. The Guild are currently appealing to county and city councillors in the hope they will take local action.

Heather Tarplee, a first year English undergraduate, said: “Considering the sexual assault that occurred in December, I think a lot of people are worried about being out at night – let alone without street lights.”

David Whitton, a spokesperson from the Council, maintained that the needs of students would be accounted for when developing the network of walking home routes. He said: “The city centre, areas of high night-time activity and the main routes through the city will remain lit.”

Stephanie Shields, a Biology student, said: “We use too much energy at the moment and I think anything that helps reduce this is a good idea. If anything, councils everywhere should consider it.”

A similar scheme already takes place in Bideford, Exmouth, and Newton Abbot. If approved, the switch-off will begin in the autumn of 2012.

Dog attacks cows Francesca Platt A DOG attacked two cows on Prince of Wales Road on 29 April, leaving them with facial injuries.

The animal and its owner were found by the Devon and Cornwall Police near the location of the incident.

The owner was reported on suspicion of violating the Protection of Livestock Act, and the dog was seized.

Inspector Andy Oliver commented on the importance of owners controlling their animals: “There is always a risk that dogs will chase livestock if not on a lead or under very close control.”

GraphExeter conducts a storm Raj Kular

Exeposé

more efficient energy production and savings.

This research was funded through donations made by the Royal Society and the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council.

For students who want to read the full report on GraphExeter, it has been published in the material science journal Advanced Materials.

April was a successful month for Exeter’s material science department, as Professor Steve Eichhorn won the Rosenhain medal for his contributions to this field.

Photo: University Press Office

“GraphExeter could revolutionise the electronics industry. It out-performs any other carbon - based transparent conductor used in electronics ”

Business School going green Jonathan Jenner Games Editor THE University of Exeter Business School has become the first in the country to commit to becoming completely carbon neutral.

The School has achieved the PAS 2060, a specification for carbon neutrality first published by the British Standards Institution. The specification demonstrates what is required for an organisation to be carbon neutral, and the Business School has committed itself to upholding it.

cided to deepen its involvement in the drive towards a sustainable future for people and the planet.”

Kate Mellor, Environment and Ethics Officer for the Guild, also praised the School’s aim to become carbon neutral: “It is really impressive that the Business School has achieved this. They have an enthusiastic team who have been working really hard.

Miss Mellor also added that students themselves can aid the University in its’ drive towards sustainability: “There are always areas to be improved upon. Students can help by raising environmental issues that they care about with the Guild.”

“It is really impressive that the Business School has achieved this. The team have been working really hard”

Dr Monica Carciun

Kate Mellor, Environment and Ethics Officer

Dr Craciun, the lead researcher behind the new substance, stated: “GraphExeter could revolutionise the electronics industry. It out-performs any other carbon – based transparent conductor used in electronics.”

The product is considered as an ideal alternative to indium tin oxide (ITO), which is the main conductive material currently used in electronics,

The School will also continue to run the ‘Open Planet’ MBA course, which provides a business qualification with an emphasis on sustainability, as well as developing business leaders with an awareness of the environment.

Jean-Paul Jeanrenaud Director, Corporate Relations, WWF International has commended the University’s commitment to sustainability. She said: “I am delighted that the School has de-

>> University of Exeter researchers Dr Monica Craciun and Dr Saverio Russo

Photo: Philip Thomas

>> University of Exeter researchers

>> Business School

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NEWS

The future of 3D chocolate

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International students boost local economy Philip Thomas News Editor AN independent report conducted by Oxford Economics in April 2012 has shown that Exeter University’s international students contribute over £88 million a year to Exeter’s economy and support 2,880 jobs.

International students from 140 different countries represent 30% of Exeter’s student population and pay around £46 million a year in tuition fees. They also spend £39 million in subsistence spending and their visitors contribute a further £3 million to the economy.

Furthermore, when all the University’s campuses are taken into consideration, international students contribute over £140 million a year to the

South West economy, supporting 3,280 jobs across the region.

Professor Neil Armstrong, Senior Deputy Vice Chancellor of the University, has hailed the positive impact of international students on the local economy and the University. He said: “For our local and regional economies it is essential that the UK continues to welcome international students to its shores. This report shows that attracting such talent is having a positive and profound impact on us all.”

Dr. Shaun Curtis, Director of International Exeter, went beyond praising the monetary benefits of international students. She stated, “I have been delighted to witness local people joining us for cultural events organised by international students, such as Chinese New Year and Diwali”.

Exeter Council turns red >> A royal chocolate design

Hannah Sweet Senior Reporter CHOC EDGE LTD, a new spin-off company from the University of Exeter, was launched at the end of April to develop and sell 3D chocolate printers following commercial interest from retailers.

The company’s founder, Dr Liang Hao, created the world’s first 3D chocolate printer last summer with colleagues at the University. The technology has now been refined and is available to buy from Choc Edge Ltd, which is based at the University’s Innovation Centre.

The 3D printer, Choc Creator, allows custom-made chocolates to be created by building up successive layers to form three dimensional shapes. Dr Hao emphasised how easy the machine is to use: “You just need to melt some choco-

late, fill a syringe that is stored in the printer, and get creative printing your chocolate.”

Choc Edge aims to sell between 500 and 1000 chocolate printers over the next three years, with a normal retail price of £2,888. The first ten machines will be auctioned on Ebay and preorders are being taken at a discounted price of £2,488.

Dr Hao said: “It is a very exciting moment for us to be able to offer a totally unique product to companies across the globe. The initial worldwide interest in creative and bespoke 3D chocolate products was enormous, so we hope the demand for the printers will also be high. By next Easter, consumers will be able to order their own, personalised Easter eggs along with many other chocolate gifts.”

Retailers such as Thornton’s have

already expressed an interest in the printers, and the technology could one day allow customers to submit their own chocolate designs on a website to be printed.

Sarah Campbell, a third year biology student, commented: “What a unique idea – if only the printer was slightly cheaper! I’d definitely pay to have something I’d designed printed out in chocolate.”

Dr Hao also hinted at future possibilities for the technology: “It could be developed to help consumers customdesign many products from different materials, but we’ve started with chocolate as it is readily available, low cost and non-hazardous. There is also no wastage as any spoilage can be eaten. Eventually we may see many mass-produced products replaced by unique designs created by the customer.”

Editor 3 MAY saw the third annual Teaching Awards ceremony held in the Great Hall. Members of staff and student subject chairs gathered together for an evening of celebration. This year there were 2021 nominations that were spread out among 588 members of staff.

“The lecturers are not only world-class academics, they are understanding human beings!”

Undergraduate student Whilst 40 members of staff were shortlisted, only eight were awarded the coveted prizes. The winners included Susan Margetts from Politics

for most supportive teacher and Timothy Rees from History won the award for best lecturer.

The ‘Best Subject’ award went to the English department. The department have been shortlisted for the last two years and were delighted to have won the acclaim on their third year of nomination.

Student nominations demonstrated the appreciation for the teaching in the department. One student wrote ‘The lecturers are not only world-class academics, they are understanding human beings!’ Teaching Fellow Matt Hayler, tweeted live from the ceremony saying ‘English won best subject @ Student Guild teaching awards. Everyone here is really chuffed’.

The night was a chance to celebrate the teaching and support that the staff at the University provide, and reward the contributions they have made to enhancing the student experience.

News Editor LABOUR took control of Exeter City Council for the first time since 2004 following the local elections on 3 May. Student-dominated wards St Davids, Polsloe, Newton and St James all elected Labour with an average of 49% of the vote.

Councillors’ main responsibilities are to represent people in their ward, lead the community and to formulate local policy.

The Liberal Democrats had a disappointing night as the number of seats they held on Exeter City Council decreased from nine to five. The Conservatives fared little better in the South West region, with Labour overturning their control of Plymouth City Council.

Ben Bradshaw, Exeter Labour MP, could not withhold his enthusiasm as he tweeted it was a “sensational night.”

He added: “We have got a huge mountain to climb between now and the General Election.”

Based on national results so far, Labour are set to control more than 700 seats and are projected to have 39% of the national vote.

Ed Miliband said it was a “wakeup call” for the coalition government to change their policy decisions. However, David Cameron countered Miliband by arguing that he would continue to make “difficult decisions” to deal with the deficit, with his deputy Nick Clegg adding: “I am determined that we will continue to play our role in rescuing, repairing and reforming the British economy.”

A class of their own Zoe Bulaitis

Philip Thomas

>> English faculty members and students

Photo: Zoe Bulaitis

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forum opening picture special

8 May 2012 |

University

of

ExeposĂŠ

Exeter

02.05.2012

55 months 30 months 9,000 msq 16,000 The construction time of the Forum Project, from vision to ultimate finish

The amount of time it took developers to prepare, design and plan the Forum

The total new floor space created in the Forum

The number of bolts in the roof of the Forum alone

6 month

Refurbishment period for each floor of the library

ExeposĂŠ

| Week twenty-five

FORUM OPENING PICTURE SPECIAL

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Photos: Chris Schofield, Josh Irwandi, Barnabas Mester and the University Press Office

3,300 msq 250 The Gridshell roof area including almost 400 msq roof light area

The amount of new or refurbished rooms created by the Forum

415

The maximum number of construction workers on site at any one time

400

The estimated amount of newly created internal doors inside the Forum

14,724

The amount of fabrication drawings made in the preparation stages

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THE Forum opening saw thousands of students climb up Stocker Road for the first time in two years. Crowds of people gathered to catch a glimpse of Her Majesty the Queen, and get hold of one of the 50,000 cupcakes that were reportedly baked for the occasion. The Royal visit coinciding with the Forum opening meant that many Exeter residents came up to Streatham campus, and it was great to have a diverse crowd of the city all gathered to witness the unveiling of the new facilities.

The day ran very smoothly from start to finish, and it will be an event that will go down in the University’s history. After much flag waving, students flooded into the new Street to get a first look inside the building.

The day was not marred by any set backs or complications, and the feeling on campus was one of optimism for the future. The new building has already changed the way that students are using campus. After months of diversions and temporary paths, to be able to walk freely does feel like a privilege.

“The opening ceremony was not marred by any set backs of complications, and the feeling on campus was one of optimism” But to many students, the Forum’s excellent facilities simply won’t be enough. We must not forget that the Forum has come at the expense of many student’s University experience – three years of building work, diversion and disruption have marred life for many of this year’s graduating students. Amid euphoric celebrations at the Project’s end, murmurs of

discontent and bitterness are never far behind.

The Forum signals a seismic change in the way the Guild figures its relationship with students. From September, we can expect to witness an even greater focus on this relationship – we should now expect to benefit from everything that comes with studying at a Russell Group University with such excellent facilities.

“We must not forget that the Forum has come at the expense of many student’s University experience” We should also be wary of future problems the Forum could create – tentative and incident-prone complex IT systems could cause disruption, and the Forum’s busy and noisy street already appears to be causing problems with students looking for peace and quiet in the library. It’s an excellent facility, but one that we feel will need to be managed carefully in order to maxmimise, rather than hinder, student experience. Only time will reveal what parts of the Forum project are a success and what areas will need further improvement.

We are very proud to have started our editorshop of Exeposé at such a historic juncture in the University’s progress. Whether you agree with the Forum or not, are a Republican or a Royalist, it’s hard to disagree that the sight of so many students and staff gathering to witness the opening really did help to generate a great deal of much-needed positivity on campus.

Wednesday 2 May is a day that will remain in the minds of the Exeter students for a long time, and we hope that you enjoy our coverage.

Exeposé would like to thank those who helped proof this issue Elli Christie William O’Rourke, Megan Furborough, Rob Harris, Josh Cooper, Mike Hunt, Tori Brazier, Alex Phelps, Anna Bear, Sebastian Gunthorpe, Ellie Busby, Imogen Crookes, Sam Lambert, Frank Smith, Henry White, Fiona Lally and members of the Exeposé Editorial Team.

“We’re now competing with the really big players” University Vice Chancellor, Professor Steve Smith, talks to Tom Payne, Editor, about the Forum, league rankings and an uncertain future…

IN 2009, Exeposé published an interview with Vice Chancellor Steve Smith. “It’s not a pleasant time”, Smith, oft renowned for his stalwart positivity, begrudgingly conceded. He was, of course, referring to the start of the Forum Project – to a time when a vast swathe of leafy-green campus transformed overnight into a glut of mud, JCBs and ominous cranes.

The day of my interview with Prof. Smith, a week before the opening of the Forum, occurred at a happier time. “Have you seen it!?”, he asks me straight away. Northcote House is a hive of activity, and the excitement for the impending Royal visit is palpable.

But my concern today relates to our campus – to that quaint bubble of disruption and diversion we happily (though all-too-often reluctantly) have learned to call home.

I begin by asking Prof. Smith about the central idea behind the Forum: “We worked out that if fees were going to rise, we had to make sure we had a central focus for the campus that was central to students. That’s typified by the Student Services Centre. It’s symbolic. It’s significant - students are at the centre”.

Ever the eminent authority on higher education issues, Prof. Smith correctly predicted that tuition fees would rise around 2012. “That’s the big thing we got right”, he asserts.

“We predicted that as early as 2006”.

Clearly proud of this fact, Prof.

Smith added: “If you think the world is going to change in 2011/12 in 2006/07, then you alter what you’re doing in preparation for that.” It’ all about ‘timing our run into the box’ – it was 2006, and we needed an iconic statement for 2012.”

Smith’s vision of Exeter University has so far, as the signage across campus stridently reinforces, been one of progress and transformation – the sense that we’re creating a world-class university. Not quite there, but close.

And for Prof. Smith, we’re one step closer: “We now have the campus in a market position – the brand is just right”.

Sensing a deeper meaning behind the ‘brand’ of Exeter University, I decided to ask Prof. Smith about the future. Although Exeter has avoided the worst of this year’s ‘UCAS slump’, applications to the University have decreased by 0.38% - and there’s a greater seismic shift on the horizon.

It’s one that Smith is very aware of: “In the next two weeks there will be an announcement about alterations to the UCAS regulations. We think it’ll go to ABB [the minimum A-level grade requirement]. Until 2011 we got £48m for teaching. If it goes to ABB we’ll get virtually nothing for teaching. Maybe only £2m. Our entire future will depend on the decisions of the students who come here, so we need to treat them well.”

I ask Smith about how the Students’ Guild will reconfigure its

relationship with students in light of funding cuts and changes to tuition fees. “We’re the only University who have a review group who look at all fee income, where it goes and where its spent, so we’re working with the Guild to show what the priorities are for strengthening that relationship.”

In spite of the decidedly uncertain waters surrounding rising tuition fees and alterations to University funding, Smith remains highly ambitious.

“I’m very positive about the future. We’re doing nicely in the league tables, and the Russell Group is a massive badge of standing. Our number one target now is world rankings.

My aim is to get into the top 100. We now need to make sure we’re a strong Russell Group university with all the expectations that staff and students have.”

Always looking at the bigger picture, our Vice Chancellor seems reluctant to rest on his laurels – the Forum is not the definitive step towards that ‘world class’ University, but it is a significant one. And there’s a long way to go. While the completed Forum glitters at the heart of campus, there emerges now a subtler need to create a new, mutually beneficial relationship between the Guild and the student body.

In the words of Steve Smith, “We’re not there yet, but we are ambitious.”

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8 May 2012 |

COMMENT

Exeposé

Fit for a Queen? Your views on the Forum...

Jon Jenner I’M fairly confident the articles that will surround this one will be positive. If they aren’t, they should be! I honestly can’t see how anyone – even the hardest, meanest, monarchy-hating student – could have a bad word to say about the opening of the Forum.

Luke Jackson A VISIT from the Queen is a perfect excuse to procrastinate from the daunting and depressing task of revising for the upcoming summer exams.

The sun was out for the first time in weeks and there was a jovial mood in the air. The barriers were hemming in the throngs of people waving their Union Jacks. There were excellent live performances to keep the crowd entertained, the highlight of which was Hannah Berney of BBC’s The Voice fame joining the Mama Stone’s band on stage for a magnificent set.

The news of the Queen’s imminent arrival reached us soon after this and all eyes went to the road. There were a few false starts of cheering as police or members of the Queen’s security staff preceded the procession itself, however these just heightened the excitement. Soon a sustained cheer was heard from up the hill and it was clear that Her Majesty had arrived. Flags were held aloft and the noise made its way down the hill like a wave. The front of the state car emerged round the corner and the noise reached its climax. Her Majesty was looking resplendent and the Duke of Edinburgh dignified as they waved and smiled at the crowds.

I was there literally all day, and yes my back is in agony and 90% of my time was spent waiting for something, anything to happen, but I’d still say with some certainty that it was the best day I’ve had at university. He hasn’t been to Arena enough, you may sneer, but I mean it. Largely, due to one thing... I saw the QUEEN. No, not our female Exeposé editor (as one person from back home thought I meant) but the actual Queen. Of England, Great Britain, the Commonwealth, the whole glorious lot of it. Queen Elizabeth II, the little lady who has been

one of the most powerful people in the world for the past 60 years. And she got out of her car, right in front of me! My

“I honestly can’t see how anyone - even the hardest, meanest, monarchy-hating student - could have a bad word to say about the opening of the Forum” friend said I looked star-struck, which I thought was fair enough – is there anyone more famous than the Queen?

I didn’t filter off with most of the crowd, I stuck about, and after waving her off after her apparently slap up meal, my attention turned to the Forum. It didn’t have the Queen in it anymore, but it didn’t need her; once I was inside, I was genuinely blown away. The scale of the place is wonderful, it’s all so shiny and new, and the free stuff was incredible. It was the best sausage roll I’ve ever had! In all seriousness the Forum looks like an immense credit to the University, with a state of the art lecture theatre and a variety of study spaces.

The Marketplace is brilliant too, with a

great selection of food and necessities, even if they are predictably overpriced.

After wandering around in awe for an hour or so, I came straight home to write this. I’ve never written for Comment before, but I was so impressed by the whole day that I thought something needed to be said. I know some people aren’t bothered that the Forum is open, and couldn’t care less that it was the Queen that came to open it… but I think it’s more than fair to say that the thousands of people that turned up last Wednesday had a day to remember.

quiet study space extremely irritating and saw it as an unnecessary interruption to the University. However, the new facilities and space within the completed Forum are definitely a great addition to the University campus.

The building itself is simple and aesthetically pleasing despite the fact that areas like the Sanctuary seem to have an Andy Warhol-like theme to them.

I feel the little touches like laptop lockers and the new Costa reflect how student-friendly the Forum is,

and project a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere to work in. The opening could not have coincided better with Exeter’s recent invitation to the Russell Group and is a physical manifestation of the fact that we are one of the best universities in the country. If that wasn’t enough, the Queen’s visit certainly attests to that fact and though it will be hard to top, the University can surely only head onwards and upwards from here.

Once the Forum was opened the exploring began. The first room I made my way into was filled with table-sized touch screen computers.

Once logged in, the first thing I did was obviously check Facebook. There were no instructions so we had to muddle our way through. It all seemed a bit style over substance (which could describe the Forum in general) and I’m not sure how many subjects will be able to make full use of this feature, but the whole thing was nevertheless seriously cool. After stopping off to pick up some free food and drink, the new auditorium beckoned. The first thing that caught my eye was, “wow the chairs spin!” and a few minutes of messing around on them ensued.

“It all seemed a bit style over substance (which could describe the Forum in general) [...] but the whole thing was nevertheless seriously cool” Having had my fun, I noticed that each chair had what I presume to be the names of notable people in Exeter’s history on. I wondered where JK Rowling’s chair was, but unfortunately didn’t have time to search up and down the rows.

The whole building is very eyecatching and modern and gives off a successful and prosperous vibe for the University. I look forward to spending more time in there in the future.

Rebecca Lodder AFTER expressing my concerns over the noise disturbance in the library due to the construction of the Forum, I am certainly delighted to now see the finished product. I found the lack of

Exeposé

| Week twenty-five

COMMENT

11

Photo: Chris Scofield, Josh Irwandi, Hannah Walker, Barnabas Mester, Zoe Bulaitis and the University Press Office

Alasdair Wood PATRIOTICALLY, we waved our flags and cheered as our unelected Head of State flaunted her wealth, prestige and security, of which we can only dream of, passing by in her Bentley. We felt blessed to have finally seen the face and received the wave of the woman who has the divine right to rule. It was a touching moment for our University, as she opened our radiant new forum, that, like herself, imposes a show of wealth and prosperity. Well that’s how it seemed.

“The Forum has taken years to build and is essentially pointless” The Forum has taken years to build and is essentially pointless. It brings together services in one place, which is a benefit if you don’t like walking around too much. I don’t deny that it is a beautiful, flashy, modern looking piece of architecture, which certainly improves the aesthetics of campus. But when we are to think rationally, surely we would rather that money had been spent else-

where, for example, on smaller seminar classes, or more contact hours? What is more, the Forum roof leaks, just like the old Lafrowda block that I live in.

On Monday there were buckets collecting rain water around the top floor of the library and the forum.

The existence of the brand new Costa adds to the look of a shopping centre. It is disappointing that it couldn’t have been a student union run café, so that profits would go back to students and not to a large corporation.

The look of a shopping centre is not surprising, as universities are increasingly focusing on running like one.

They feel the need to impress prospective students with a flashy look. But the Forum’s great expense and lack of use, goes to symbolise the foolishness of our time. Buildings represent a lot, the Empire State Building was finished as the Great Depression began and our Forum represents the waste of money in a bitter age of austerity, that comes as universities move into a consumerist model, where flashy buildings take priority over academia. The Forum will of course look better on a prospectus cover than a quote about small tutorial sizes. When I saw the Queen pass in her Bentley I did not feel pride in how our money is lavished on the monarchy, just as when I see the Forum, I do not feel pride in how our University wastes our money on such a structure.

Jessica Leung THE Royal visit has been one of the main topics of discussion around campus for many months. The whole campus has been buzzing with questions such as “What will she wear?” “Who has an invite?” “Will the Forum even be completed on time?” However, amongst these excited students, there were also those who ‘feigned’ apathy for the monarch and claimed to have no interest in her arrival, or indeed the completion of the Forum.

I use the word ‘feigned’ here because, alas, on 2 May when Her Majesty was due to arrive, these were the exact people who crowded onto the Piazza waiting with anticipation for a glimpse of the Queen, along with everyone else. That is the beauty of

“The whole day was wellorganised, professional and inclusive - it has truly made me proud to be an Exeter student” Now onto the Forum! After three years of building works I was expecting the result to be stunning.

Well, Exeter certainly delivered as the project has exceeded my expectations – it truly is an impressive building with all the amenities I would expect a good university to have. However, as a third year student, I feel even more frustrated that I have been cheated of

my money and time here. The building works started in my first year and end now in my final term. When nostalgically reflecting on the old campus, I realised that few people actually remembered what it was like because the building works have defined the campus for so long! The Forum is exactly what I needed in my three years here, yet Exeter have not delivered until now – I felt taunted by the official opening in a ‘look-at-what-you’ll-bemissing’ manner.

So what do us leavers get for our time here in the midst of the building works? Nothing, except a discounted Grad Ball. I don’t feel that this exactly compensates for my extra ten minute walk to lectures, the closing of the RAM, the temporary student services, the lack of Great Hall, and the amount of disruption on campus in general.

Maybe I’m just a disgruntled student who’s jealous of the brand new campus everyone else gets to enjoy for many years to come. Oh well, at least I got to see the Queen.

NUS lobby for education reform Josh Cooper

>> NUS President Liam Burns

the Royal visit and the monarchy in general: the way they have the power to bond the country and the fact they brought everyone together – home and international students alike. The whole day was well-organised, professional and inclusive - it has truly made me proud to be an Exeter student.

STUDENTS may have lost the vote in December 2010 but they are increasingly winning the argument. Despite the government’s best efforts to quell parliamentary and public debate on issues of higher education, shown by the recent shelving of the Higher Education Bill, their reforms are not subtle, part of an upheaval of the higher education system as a whole which, when fully realised, is met with overwhelming opposition.

On Wednesday 18 April, the National Union of Students (NUS) lobby highlighted the existing anxiety within parliament regarding the coalition’s reforms and the importance of grassroots student action in exposing them. The lobby unsurprisingly revolved around the escalating costs of education, with hidden course costs, the cutting of bur-

saries and, of course, high tuition fees pricing out many students and potential applicants. Calling on the government to ‘come clean’, students from across the UK lobbied around 200 MPs, almost one third of all MPs. With many MPs not following the debate as closely as the students themselves, it proved a worthwhile task and turned many more MPs, from across the political spectrum, on their side.

The day was accompanied by an array of speakers, with notable figures such as Sadiq Khan MP, Chuka Umunna MP and Sally Hunt (General Secretary of UCU) raising their own fears about the direction that the coalition is taking higher education in. Their talks ranged from focusing on particular problems, such as the mess that is postgraduate funding, to talking on a wider scale about the general shift in higher education under the coalition, both in the way of funding, with private providers ready to seize the sector’s assets, and indeed values, with the arts in a losing battle against “national priority” degrees.

Surely they are all linked.

Speaking to Exeposé, NUS President Liam Burns talked about the farreaching changes being implemented.

“The trebling of tuition fees was a deeply damaging and regressive move, but many of wider reforms now taking place behind the scenes are just as worrying. The NUS ‘come clean’ lobby has helped to raise awareness in parliament about the radical nature of what is happening behind the scenes, through the great work of students from across the country who took part, and it is clear that once people become aware of the reforms they tend to oppose them.”

Higher education is in need of an ‘NHS moment’, a moment when people finally realise the full implications of the reforms and wholeheartedly reject them. Just as most British people agree on access to health care, so too can we agree on access to further and higher education. At their recent conference in Sheffield the NUS announced that they will hold a national demonstration in autumn which could provide a much needed platform. There is still much to fight for.

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Exeposé

| Week twenty-five

Features

Features FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @ExeposeFeatures

13

FEATURES EDITORS

James Crouch & Meg Drewett features@exepose.com

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Boris vs. Ken: the clash of the titans Photo: Whizz-kidz

>> Boris Johnson, the Mayor of London, is fighting old opponent, Ken Livingstone, in the mayoral elections on 3 May.

Alex Phelps favoured Boris Johnson in the Mayoral elections IN the modern British economy, make no mistake about it, London is the centre. In the past decade London’s financial sector has been what has propped Britain up during these times of economic difficulty. London is a world apart from the rest of Britain. The outside regions have had a completely different experience in the past ten years to that of Londoners. This is not to say that London is insulated from current events, but it has had a different experience none the less. This reliance on London has made the upcoming mayoral elections more crucial than they have ever been before. The winner leads the beating heart of Britain’s economy.

Boris Johnson’s political career has

“His semi-celebrity status does not make him a man of the people but it does make him likeable” been very colourful and at some points downright hilarious. He has a certain eccentric quality to him that is sorely missed in British politicians, such as Campbell-Bannerman, who famously talked to his walking sticks and apologised to the ones he did not take out with him. Eccentricity at the very least makes a candidate stand out from the other boring competitors and this has given Boris Johnson his edge. He was seen running through London chasing after a robber shouting “Oiks!”, he

hosted Have I Got News For You with hilarious results and has made gaffes that are simply too delightful to hold against him such as “Voting Tory will cause your wife to have bigger breasts and increase your chances of owning a BMW M3”. These kinds of verbal appellations tend to make him more endearing rather than alienating and that is the secret to his electability.

On the streets he is more recognisable than David Cameron and is frequently asked for photos and autographs by the people of London. His semi-celebrity status does not make him a man of the people, far from it, however it does simply make him likeable, a trait that is missed in modern politics.

Ken Livingstone, on the other hand, seems like a dinosaur in every sense of the word. However, to his credit, Ken as an individual is, or at the very least was, very reasonable. He had quite a common touch, making him look like he was listening. Over the years he seems to have lost that ability to appeal to Londoners. He also took the last election’s loss to Boris very personally.

It makes me wonder whether or not he is in it because he owes it to London or if he owes it to himself. If you are to put your ear to the ground on any political discussion in London it is always a good idea to look to the local cabbies.

Among them, a catchphrase seems to be “Not Ken!” as they regale you with stories of how bad times were under the reign of the ‘bendy buses’, which I am glad to say Boris has removed com-

pletely. Even Alan Sugar himself, a Labour peer, tweeted “I seriously suggest NO ONE votes for Livingstone in the Mayoral elections”.

This time the stakes were much

“Boris is the antithesis of the ideal that a less offensive politician is a more successful politician” higher than one man for one city. The ripples of this election were felt across the nation. Michael Gove described it as a “critical moment in the lifetime of parliament, one that will set the trajectory for the next few years - for good or for ill.” Boris has done much with so little. He has eradicated the bendy buses, 8,000 ‘Boris bikes’ are on the street and he has presided over a ten per cent cut in crime despite riots breaking out across London. Over the last few years politics has been decided by swing voters in swing seats with the rest being entrenched in tribal politics unwilling to change. Boris is the antithesis of the ideal that a less offensive politician is a more successful politician. He is moving in a decidedly different direction based on instinct and values, not on the ever swinging pendulum of politically correct opinion.

As this issue went to press, Boris Johnson was announced as the winner of the London Mayoral Elections

Meg Drewett, Features Editor, explains why she voted Red Ken BACK home in London, I live in a borough where Labour always wins the council elections. I went to school in a constituency with a Labour MP, and attended said school with one of his ‘secret’ children. But this is not why I postal voted for Ken Livingstone in this year’s London Mayoral election.

Let’s make it perfectly clear: the London Mayoral election is all about personality and when it comes to election time, you go big or you go home.

That’s why there were only two real candidates in the mayoral race: Ken Livingstone, the past Mayor, or Boris Johnson, the present one. None of the other candidates, including the Lib Dem’s Brian Paddick, are ever able to stand out amongst the crowd.

For me, Ken was the obvious choice.

In the second round of the Boris vs. Ken battle, Ken is the candidate who genuinely wanted to make things better for everyday Londoners. He proposed cuts to the extortionate transport fees, which any Londoner could identify as an issue close to their hearts. He was the only candidate seriously talking about the affordable housing crisis currently occurring in the capital and was in line with the environmental issues that are increasingly important to Londoners choking on car fumes. Ken stood strong for London, despite unfortunate press articles pitching him in a bad light.

But almost more importantly, I always supported Ken in the Mayoral race in the hope that Boris wouldn’t win.

London Mayoral race opinion poll 50 45

45

Source: YouGov

Opinion polls for London Assembly 50

44

45

38

40

Boris Johnson is a racist, sexist toff who makes a mockery of London every time he opens his mouth. Boris breaks the economic backs of Londoners with his utter lack of economic forethought. We were talking of re-electing a man whose environmental record is practically nonexistent, who couldn’t be bothered to return to his city immediately during the London riots, and who spent over £11 million on just 8 of his new ‘routemaster’ buses for fun. Can anyone seriously say that Boris Johnson is a man who understands what London needs right now?

At the time this goes to press, Boris is ahead of Ken in the polls with 44% of all votes. Boris’ is still a bumbling buffoon act that seems to be fooling voters into thinking that he’ll serve them well for another four years. But when it comes down to it, for Boris, the position of the Mayor of London is nothing more than a stepping stone in his political career; one which he hopes will put him in a position to challenge George Osborne for the Conservative Party leader candidacy when David Cameron eventually steps down.

Ken Livingstone, on the other hand, was the candidate of principle. He has a largely good record with London and it’s a city that he genuinely cares about. The race for the London Mayoral seat was personal for him, and so it should be. I want a Mayor who personally wants the best for my city, and I hope the rest of London does too.

40

35

35

30

34

30

25

25

20 15

7

10

9

20 15

11

11

Lib Dem

Oth

10

5

5

0 Boris Johnson

Ken Livingstone

Brian Paddick

Others

Boris Johnson polled best for: homeowners, middle class Londoners.

Ken Livingstone polled best for: ethnic minorities, poorer Londoners, commuters, older Londoners Boris Johnson polled best on: tackling Crime, Creating Jobs.

Ken Livinsgtone polled best on: the cost of living in London, uniting different communities, improving transport.

0 Con

Lab

What are the most important issues in the election?

40% Tackling crime 40% Improving transport 33% Cost of living in London 30% Creating jobs 28% Affordable housing 7% Successful Olympics 3% Promoting London abroad 7% Don’t Know

14

8 May 2012 |

FEATURES

Exeposé

Who stands to lose out with the £5k cap?

As party funding once again comes under the spotlight, Tom Bisgood investigates Miliband’s proposal THE subject of funding reforms has been a hot topic on the agenda of the House of Commons with Labour leader, Ed Miliband, proposing a £5,000 cap on individ-

ual donations to political parties. These funding limits, he claims, are set to include those from trade unions and so will affect Labour as much as anyone else Photograph: LeftCentral

costing them “some millions of pounds”.

However, he maintains it is essential to take “the big money out of politics”. This runs contrary to the Tories proposal of a £50,000 limit.

Miliband has insisted that, given the state of the economy, that cuts to funding could not be offset by an increase in taxpayer funding, but rather there should be limits on party spending which, during the 2010 general election, was set at £19 million. A limit to this would reduce the need for parties to seek wealthy donors for funding and to make the amount spent on politics more practical.

The current system operates with no limits on the size of donations, but does publish the name of anyone who give £7,500 or more and so, on the face of it, a shake-up of party funding seems like a great strategy to make the system more democratic. However, the scheme would not be set to affect the arrangement where members of unions affiliated to the Labour party can “opt out” of giving £3 a year to the Labour party, as opposed to what would be a much less complicated “opt in” method and, with approximately three million of these affiliates, Labour will be able to protect a sizeable income. Miliband defended this aspect of the reforms arguing that, while big one off donations from trade unions had to go, he was proud of Labourʼs link to the trade unions as it kept the party in touch with working communities and

that he did not wish to see these communities disenfranchised. Conversely, Liberal Democrat deputy leader, Simon Hughes said “questions remain over how committed Labour is to real reform. Why does Ed Miliband still disagree with the Kelly proposal that people should have the freedom to opt in to donating to the Labour Party, rather than the complex system of opting out?”

Party donations have been an issue for Westminster since last year when an investigation following the “cash for access” scandals was launched in which the Chairman of the independent Committee on Standards in Public Life, Sir Christopher Kelly, suggested a far more comprising £10,000 limit. The pressure for funding reform this caused has been further prompted by the resignation of senior Conservative fundraiser, Peter Cruddas, who was secretly filmed boasting the ability to provide influence over Tory policies for donors that gave £250,000 to the party.

“It is essential to take the big money out of politics” Labour have routinely pointed to this report which highlights that, on average, union donations provided the party with £2.5 million every year between 2000 and 2010 meaning that Labour would lose its biggest source of income. None-

theless, Grant Shapps, Conservative housing minister claims that, other than those years when the general election was being held, the caps would cause Labour to lose only 1% of its funding.

Furthermore, it is estimated that the Tories would stand to lose three times the amount of donations that Labour would.

On the other hand, the Conservativesʼ proposed limit is not much better with Miliband reminding us that £50,000 is twice the average wage meaning there would still be greater scope for big money politics. Moreover, with issues surrounding the ‘granny tax’ and pasty gate still fresh in the voters mind, David Cameron maintaining that he does not consider any donation under £50,000 to be ʻsignificantʼ doesnʼt do much to discourage the view that the Tories are out of touch with the common man. It is unquestionable that limits need to be set on party funding and the amount spent during an election, but it is clear that both the Labour and Conservative proposals are biased towards their own parties. The arrangement that is put in place for party funding needs to ensure that the Tories are not too reliant on big businesses and Labour are not too reliant on the levies provided by the trade unions. Any reform of the funding system is inevitably going to benefit one side more than the other, but with such a huge difference between their proposed caps there is surely some room for compromise.

Lords Reform: a test of trust for the Coalition

Helen Carrington asks whether the proposed reforms are in the ‘spirit of the coalition’ NICK CLEGG let down the Liberal Democrat party once again this week, as he refused to ‘go to war’ over the proposed reforms to the House of Lords.

The reforms are currently being opposed by members of the Conservative Party, and many within the Lib Dems are calling for Clegg to issue Cameron with an ultimatum.

“Some argue that if a system has worked well for over 600 years, there seems little need to change it” The House of Lords currently consists of around 750 peers, 600 of whom have been appointed for life. These peers include members of the three main political parties, 12 Law Lords, 25 representatives of the Church of England and other non-party peers who have demonstrated ‘a record of significant achievement within their chosen way of life’. Following the 1999 reforms, only 92 of these are hereditary peers.

At the end of January 2012, the Coalition government proposed that the membership of the second chamber be cut from 750 to around 300 peers with no more than 60 appointed peers. The Conservatives have also put forward The Parliamentary Voting System and Constituencies Bill, calling for numbers

in the House of Commons to be reduced from 650 to 600. It has been suggested that there are too many ‘time-servers’ on the bench, MPs who are seeking personal gain above political reform, and fewer MPs with a more professional and motivated outlook would help to ‘clean up’ the Commons. The Conservatives are backing the Commons reforms more strongly, while the Liberal Democrats are pushing for the Lords reforms. However, each party needs the support of the other half of the Coalition to push their reforms through Parliament. Tim Farron, President of the Liberal Democrats, said that his party would ‘find it impossible to back Tory proposals to reduce the number of MPs in the House of Commons unless Conservative MPs backed his party’s plans for a fully elected second chamber.’

The Labour Party are doubtful of the proposed reforms of both chambers, suggesting that they will give the Tories an advantage in the next election, and questioning whether the cuts would actually save money due to the boundary reviews necessary to determine the reformed constituencies. The Coalition are also planning to abolish the right to a public inquiry over boundary changes, further reducing costs on the one hand, but potentially removing the public’s ability to voice their opinions.

There is concern that these reforms could create two elected chambers doing the same job and simply complicat-

ing the process of creating and passing bills. However, the main criticism of these reforms is that they are unnecessary and should not be a priority. After all, in defiance of protests that the current setup of the chambers is outdated, if a system has worked well for over 600 years, there seems little need to change it. The House of Lords has backed many human rights issues in Parliament in the past, including protecting the public’s right to trial by jury, the illegalisation of forced marriages and ensuring fairer rights for women in the pension system.

Nick Clegg has spoken out against a referendum into the Lord’s reforms, citing it a waste of money asking the public ‘a question which frankly most people don’t worry about very much and on

which there is consensus between three main parties’. However, he is pushing for the reforms, despite criticism that they should not be a priority in the face of the double-dip recession, and that the Liberal Democrats are merely seeking an issue that can be easily and successfully resolved to improve their own standing for the next general election.

Clegg warned Cameron that he should act to suppress Tory rebellion against the Lord’s reforms for the sake of the Coalition.

In previous conflicts between Lib Dem pre-electorate promises and Coalition proposals, Clegg has deferred to Cameron to maintain ‘the Spirit of the Coalition’. As Clegg himself says, ‘I have asked Liberal Democrat MPs and peers to back a number of things they

didn’t like at all. But I did it because it was in the spirit of the Coalition, and I would ask people from all sides of the Coalition Government to continue to govern in that spirit.’ Evidently, unity within the governing party (or parties) is of utmost importance, and trust is a key factor in the success of the Coalition. However, the trust of the voter in their MP, or indeed their government, is even more important. In a democratic society, politicians have power as long as their voters allow them to, and this fragile trust has already been threatened by the MP expenses scandal of 2009.

Whether the Conservatives and Lib Dems are able to reach an agreement over the reforms or not, the important thing is that the Coalition is not put before the interests of the country.

Photograph: Epoch Times

Exeposé

| Week twenty-five

Features

15

A battle won in the ongoing fight for freedom Nicholas Armstrong looks at the challenges ahead as Burma walks the long road to Democracy Photo: Centre of the World

>> Aung San Suu Kyi lead her party to a great by-election success last month

BURMA

IN 1990 the NLD managed to win 60% of the vote, taking 80% of the seats, only to have power wrested from their hands by a military coup. The military has maintained power ever since. Things, happily, were different this time. On 1 April, the National League for Democracy (NLD), competing in their first elections since 1990, contested 44 of the 45 seats on offer to the federal parliament in Naypyidaw. Of the 44 seats contested, the NLD won 43, with the governments solitary victory coming in a constituency where the NLD candidate was disqualified.

This marks what many analysts be-

lieve to be a promising change in Burmese history. Since coming to power in 2011, President Thein Sein has embarked on a programme of reform, releasing political prisoners in December last year, re-establishing diplomatic ties with the United States and presiding over the first fair by-election for many years.

However, the victory achieved on 1 April is still a small one: the parliament is composed of 650-odd seats, so the 44 won by the NLD represent a meagre 6% wrestled from the ruling Union and Solidarity Development Party (USDP), which has functioned as the army’s proxy since 1962. While the percentage of the vote garnered in some of the constituencies (as much as 90%) is promising, the USDP still retains full legislative control and with a quarter of the seats safeguarded for military-appointed MPs, there is still much work to be done.

Yet in Aung San Suu Kyi, leader of the NLD, the Burmese might possess a leader charismatic and committed enough to achieve that change.

Placed under house arrest in 1990 after her success in the general election, Ms Suu Kyi has tirelessly campaigned for democracy. Daughter of Aun San, a national hero who fought for Burmese democracy in the 1940s, Suu Kyi is adored by the people of Burma, who attend rallies brandishing her portrait.

Ms Suu Kyi has suffered much for her country, most notably losing the chance

to visit her husband Micheal Aris before he died in 1997, for fear of being barred from return to the country.

Ms Suu Kyi may finally be reaping some of the long overdue rewards for sacrifice, hard work and persistence. President Thein Sein has recently announced plans to float the currency, revealing an openness to foreign investment and indicating that the leader may realise that the best way to achieve this ambition is to compromise politically and promote stability within the country.

“In Aung San Suu Kyi, the Burmese might possess a leader charismatic and committed enough to achieve that change” Even the Prime Minister has become involved. On his recent visit to the capital, David Cameron met with both leaders and raised the possibility that EU sanctions could soon be lifted if the programme of reform is pursued. This will surely offer President Thein Sein an incentive to press on, but the removal of sanctions need not be too hasty. The international community must make sure the aid first released benefits the poorest, whilst still reserving aid of a great enough value to spur the Government to enact greater measures.

The real test of recent success will

come in 2015 when Burma’s general elections are held. If at that stage, President Thein Sein has avoided what some consider an inevitable blacklash to his programme of reform, then the NLD might stand a chance of winning a historic victory. If, however, Thein Sein falls victim to a military coup, an event that has so plagued Burma’s recent history, the chances of democratic progress seem slim. Although various political threats pose a threat to his rule, health issues are also a concern for the President – the 66-year old had a pacemaker installed in 2004, and recently visited a private clinic for an examination.

Ms Suu Kyi, also 66, is not free from health worries either. In the week running up to the election she was forced to stop campaigning after her doctor ordered her to rest. In order to tour the country she had pushed herself near to collapse, and not for the first time. These two figures are key to democracy’s success in Burma and if one were to fall the project may stumble.

The landslide victory in Burma’s recent by-elections appears hugely promising, but the magnitude of the NLD’s success might prove to be its own undoing: the ruling government has performed embarrassingly badly, and the chances of retaining more than a handful of seats in a free election based on the recent results are minimal. Those in power realise this too, and are unlikely to stand by and let it happen.

The Canterbury tales of an embattled Archbishop Philip Thomas, News Editor asks what will we remember when we reflect on Dr. Rowan Williams’ tenure?

DR. ROWAN WILLIAMS warned in his resignation statement that his successor would need the ‘constitution of an ox and the skin of a rhinoceros’.

These words were in stark contrast to Williams’ own experience as Archbishop of Canterbury, in which the diverging opinions of the Anglican Communion superficially altered his beliefs and his welcoming approach caused further divisions within his Church. For all his intellect, Williams was unable to capture the zeitgeist of a Communion spread across seven continents.

“The ‘problem with Rowan Williams is that he is too bloody Christian’” A Church of England bishop Born in Swansea in 1950, Williams left Wales to study theology at Christ College, Cambridge, and gained his doctorate from Wadham College, Oxford. After this prestigious education, Williams held various academic and religious positions at Oxbridge during which he not only made significant contributions to theology but also to history, political philosophy and literary criticism. Such an exceptional mind was recognised by the Church of England who appointed him as Bishop of Monmouth in 1991 and Archbishop of Wales

in 1999. Williams also gained a reputation as a liberal Christian, as he was an active demonstrator and a member of the left-wing Anglo-Catholic Jubilee Group. It was against this backdrop as an intelligent radical which meant that Williams’ appointment as Archbishop of Canterbury on 27 February 2003 was well received by a Communion plagued with moral disagreements.

Five months into Williams’ tenure his reputation was irreversibly damaged. Despite Williams’ own belief that gays had a place within the higher positions of the Church of England, he asked the homosexual clergyman Jeffrey John to reject an offer he received to be Bishop of Reading in 2003; John consequently withdrew his acceptance of the nomination to the bishopric.

Williams was forced into this embarrassing decision as several members of the Anglican Communion threatened to withdraw their membership if John became bishop without first repenting his ‘sin’ of homosexuality. Somewhat inevitably, Williams was unable to unite a clergy whose views mirror their respective social environments and it must have been especially difficult for Williams considering his liberal nature.

Furthermore these actions served only to paper over cracks which have widened since. In 2004 America ordained its’ first Anglican gay bishop, creating a storm of controversy that has yet to

clear; the main opposition to the ordination of homosexual bishops is rooted in Africa, personified by the comparison of gay people to dogs by the Archbishop of Nigeria. With such contrasting opinions, Williams was powerless in affecting the actions of his Communion.

Even when Williams’ liberalness shone through, divides within the Anglican Communion came back to haunt him. Williams was continually a strong advocate for the ordination of female bishops, a movement which gathered pace since the ordination of the first Anglican female bishop in Australia in 2008. He also predicted that there were ‘hurdles’ that had to be overcome before such ordinations became widespread. This comment proved only too true. Again embarrassingly for Williams many clergymen within the Church of England could not overcome this hurdle and in 2011, when the Pope offered them the chance to become a Catholic whilst retaining some of their traditional beliefs, 900 Anglicans converted to Catholicism. How could Williams win? An article in the Catholic Herald argues that ‘Anglicanism is intrinsically divided by its theological incoherence’; certainly Williams must envy the Pope’s authority to influence popular opinion against his own predicament of those within his Church constantly challenging him.

Giles Fraser, a priest of the Church of England, reportedly heard a fel-

Photo: : Ben Wyeth

>> The Archbishop of Cantebury has worked hard to hold together a divided communion

low Bishop say that the ‘problem with Rowan Williams is that he is too bloody Christian’. Such a view was fuelled by the comments Williams made in 2008 regarding the integration of Islamic Sharia law into the British legal system, which Williams believed was ‘unavoidable’. This statement was reflective of Williams’ intention to respect all religions, but in doing so he provoked controversy within his own denomination.

The Bishop of Rochester questioned if the ‘far-reaching implications of this have been fully considered’, whilst the Bishop of Hulme criticised the ‘disgraceful’ attacks that Williams received.

By stating such forthright opinions, Wil-

liams encouraged arguments at a time when the Church of England needed to remember what united it.

Dr. Rowan Williams possesses one of the most exceptional theological minds of this generation but he was ultimately unable to bridge the gaps that continue to exist within the Anglican Communion. Although he made matters worse through divisive speeches, in such a contentious climate perhaps it should be applauded that he did not make more controversial statements.

Williams’ tenure began in a position of checkmate; it is difficult to see how the next Archbishop can change this situation.

EXPAND YOUR HORIZONS • EXPERIENCE NEW CULTURES • ENHANCE YOUR EMPLOYABILITY • FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE

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Start planning now for where International Exeter will take you.

Visit our website for eligibility requirements and further information

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17

8 May 2012 |

LIFESTYLE

Lifestyle FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @ExeposeLStyle

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LIFESTYLE EDITORS

Thomas Ling & Alex Tindall lifestyle@exepose.com

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Get your SCRUf on Alex Tindall, Lifestyle Editor, talks to Exeter University’s home-grown clothing brand, SCRUf

Quick and easy revision time recipes With the exams soon upon us, it seems there’s no time to waste. Here’s a few delicious recipes that take minimal effort with maximum taste.

Pea and Pesto Soup Rebecca Lyons

Cheap, easy and tasty, this is one of the speediest soups you can make! Enjoy with a hunk of chunky bread or pour into a thermos for a lunchtime library treat!

LAUNCHED in 2011 and looking to go big this summer, SCRUf is bold colours, beach scenes and effortless cool. Think you’ve seen it all before? Nick Cox, one of the three founders, thinks differently.

I met him to find out what makes SCRUf so special.

Started with two friends in their first year as Exeter undergraduates, Cox is honest in admitting that their initial aim was simply to make money. He tells me that the idea to sell espadrilles came from the more creative member of the group, Jamie Wild, with the aim to undercut the big brands for a student budget. SCRUf is very much by students, for students.

“If you don’t really go for it, you’re not going to see any results” Nick Cox, SCRUf co-founder SCRUf’s debut item was espadrilles. Once humble peasant footwear, these canvas rope-soled shoes have become a staple item in the student wardrobe. Describing himself as a flip-flop to espadrille convert, Cox thinks they are popular because they are easy-going, comfortable and cool, without making a fashion statement. This seems true of SCRUf too. The brand’s chilled vibe and beach-perfect products are hardly new to our eyes, but its fresh approach to the familiar seems to appeal to students looking to fit in whilst trying something new.

Their espadrille range is limited to a few colours: red, blue and navy. Though there’s certainly less variety than the leading brand TOM’s, Cox prides himself on SCRUf’s simplicity: “they are simple designs that work...people are happy to replicate them”. This is probably true; the horror of coming across someone wearing the same thing as you is likely to be avoided with a pair of plain SCRUf’s. Another plus is the price. Cox describes that SCRUf has

aimed to fill the void between Primark espadrilles and TOM’s, producing a fashionable and hard-wearing product that only sets you back £15.

May will see the arrival of SCRUf’s newest range, trousers and shorts made from Kenyan material, called kikois.

The kikois look like a promising step for SCRUf, offering more choice and individuality with a wider range of colours and patterns. Soft and slouchy, the kikois look like another beach favourite, but Cox is keen to emphasize that their products are not just for the beach as their branding suggests, but for casual day wear as well.

With so much talk of the sun, beach and relaxing, I found myself wondering if there’s actually any hard work involved in setting up a business. Cox assures me there is, admitting that SCRUf has become “more and more work”, especially alongside a degree. Problems with a manufacturer last summer meant SCRUf missed the 2011 summer selling season and were subsequently left with 800 pairs of late espadrilles and a lot less money.

At this point I wondered just how three undergraduates managed to start a business, especially during a time of economic downturn. Cox identifies much of SCRUf’s success to the “university bubble”, arguing that the student market is unique in its abundance of disposable income - “an easy market to tap into.” However, it also seems clear that SCRUf’s founders are driven, with a “go hard or go home” attitude. Having started the company using their own savings, there seems to be an awful lot of personal investment in the brand, but Cox is confident: “if you don’t really go for it, you’re not going to see any results.”

Despite being a good product with eye-catching branding, it’s likely a lot of Exeter students will be hearing about SCRUf for the first time now. Its three founders aim to change that drastically this term with plans to harness student footfall with the arrival of the sun:

“Whenever it’s sunny we want to be out in Exeter selling.” Cox also tells me that SCRUf will be setting up a shop on Streatham Court corner and appearing in the entrepreneur stand in Devonshire House for a week.

It’s clear that these guys are aiming for high brand visibility this term, but I was interested to hear if they had plans to expand out of their comfort zone of Exeter. Cox is confident that SCRUf can succeed in the outside world, with plans to launch the brand nationwide by using reps at other universities, hitting small music festivals and appearing at trade stands.

When I ask if SCRUf was a longterm career plan Cox seems unsure, weighing up the risk and appeal of working for himself, also admitting that his parents worry about his investment in the company. Whether we can expect to see SCRUf on the high street in the future is unclear, but it seems inevitable that we’ll be seeing a lot more of them on campus.

Take a look at scrufwear.com to check out SCRUf’s products.

Ingredients 700ml Vegetable stock 350g frozen peas 1/3 of a jar of green pesto 1/2 tsp table salt Squeeze of lime juice

Method 1. Heat vegetable stock in saucepan 2. Add frozen peas, salt and lime juice to pan. Cook for 7mins 3. Add pesto and blitz peas, liquid and pesto together using hand-held blender 4. Boil for 2mins if too runny

Chorizo Chicken Bake

2 red onions 2 peppers Olive oil 2tsp dried oregano

Kitty Howie

Let your oven do the hard work for you while you work and fill your kitchen with the smell of Spain – a winning recipe with minimal washing up!

Ingredients 8 chicken thighs 1 pack mini chorizo 1 small pack of new or sweet potatoes

Lemon and Rasperry Ice Cream Rebecca Lyons

Cheap, low-fat and delicious – the easiest ice cream ever!

Method 1. Preheat oven to 200°/gas mark 6 2. Halve new potatoes, cut up onions and peppers into eighths 3. Divide chicken, potatoes, onions, peppers and chorizo between two shallow roasting tins, drizzle with oil and sprinkle with oregano 5. Whack the tins in the oven for an hour. Swap them over at half time and baste 6. Serve with sautéed courgette, spinach and chunks of crusty bread.

Method 1. Mix lemon curd and yoghurt together 2. Once fully blended, stir in raspberries 3. Freeze for a few hours

Ingredients 1 jar lemon curd 1 pot full-fat Greek yogurt 200g raspberries

Lifestyle Asks...

How do you keep stress at bay during exams?

Jessica Leung: I bake... I don’t even eat my creations, I just eat A LOT!

Cyan Turan: I make tea...I go jogging...I tidy!

Ben Murphie: I paint my toes to look like talons and pick things up, pretending I’m an eagle.

Tom Bond: I build fortresses out of balled up socks and populate them with copies of Renaissance literature.

Exeposé

| Week twenty-five

lifestyle

18

The crowning achievement of a royal wardrobe Zoe Dickens takes a look at the Queen’s fashion sense and the politics of style I HAVE seen the Queen in person just once. She emerged from her maroon Rolls Royce, an enigma in a purple skirt suit and matching hat, looking as stately and elegant as she has done for her entire 60 year reign. What she may now lack in youth and stature she makes up for with graceful presence and a classical poise that only comes from years of experience in the public eye.

For a high profile figure like the Queen, image is everything and when you’re the leader of a great nation and head of one of the most recognisable families in the world, you can’t just get up in the morning and chuck on a tracksuit, even if it was Jack Wills (and it would be – she is the Queen after all). Unlike the rest of us, the Queen’s outfits are not dictated by personal preference or what is ‘on trend.’ She has an occupational obligation to look respectable, practical and stately. The Queen, quite frankly, must visually embody everything that makes Britain great and, no matter what your opinion of the royal family may be, there

can be no disputing she has this down to a fine art.

Of course, this becomes of vital importance when she travels abroad. On a state visit to America, for example, the trim of her jacket must recognise the stars and stripes emblem or, if in Canada, she must show respect for the symbol of

the maple leaf; whether this be by via ornamental jewellery or embellished fabric. Her wardrobe is invariably dictated by the flag colours of foreign countries and includes many neutral tones in order to compliment whatever sash or regalia she is expected to wear to this or that ceremony. Her outfits are planned down to

“Most people get a bit stressed, a bit touchy, and some people go a bit weird” However, I may have a way you can actually blame someone else. Try this on for size - although it is somewhat reassuring that we don’t really have to do that well, it also creates a laziness throughout

As with any woman’s wardrobe, the Queen’s clothes have developed and matured over time. Hartnell’s vibrantly coloured ‘Duster’ coats and classic matronly designs, from the Queen’s early reign, slowly morphed into more subdued and streamlined shapes as her rule progressed and social tastes changed. In the 1970s, when she switched to Hartnell trained designer, Ian Thomas, her skirts became shorter and she sported her first trouser suit, pairing these looks with hats from milliners, such as, Simon Mirman and Freddie Fox. In keeping with the frugal theme of her reign, the Queen still wears many of these designs today.

The responsibility for the Queen’s attire currently lies solely in the hands of Angela Kelly, who designs and makes all her clothes, as well as being personally charged with styling the Queen each day.

With the Diamond Jubilee, Olympics and (of course) the Forum opening coming up, this is a big fashion year for the Queen - she is after all, quite literally, the last word in royal style.

Trials & Tribulations of a Fresher

Your problems solved

All play and no work

“Dear Lifestyle,

This fortnight, Jonny Buck gives his expert advice on exams, revision, and keeping calm. Sort of.

LET’s face it. There’s only really one thing I can talk about at this point in time, and considering I didn’t go on the ski trip, or any tours, and didn’t get any ridiculous tattoos, we’re left with a discussion about exams and the prerequisite revision. Having attempted to live the archetypical university lifestyle for the preceding 7 months, this is a daunting experience for everyone. I’m going to do my best to make this an irreverent take on what is undoubtedly the worst part of being at university, but obviously I’m too busy revising to make this a good one.

As a fresher, I really do understand my exams ‘don’t count’, and all we need is 40% to pass, and therefore revision shouldn’t be too much of an issue. Still, exams are scary, and that 40% looks a world away for most of us. Typical excuses abound with such classics as “we never covered this” and “the lecturer is appalling” are all conjured up out of a student’s need to blame everyone else and take zero responsibility for simply failing to get out of bed after a particularly heavy Monday Mosaic.

the last minute detail for maximum visibility and minimum controversy; to the extent that a set of mourning clothes accompanies her wherever she goes, just in case an unexpected death should occur.

In choosing her outfits the Queen faces another political dilemma – a need to support British designers and commerce without being seen to snub foreign talent. Princess Margaret found this out the hard way when she was harshly criticised by the British fashion industry for wearing Parisian clothes from the House of Dior.

So who does the Queen trust to handle the heady politics of her wardrobe?

In 2006, an exhibition called ‘Dress for the Occasion’ displayed some of her most exquisite evening gowns, many of which were designed by Norman Hartnell and Hardy Amies. Hartnell, clearly a favourite with the Queen (and her advisors) was entrusted with the weighty task of designing both the Queen’s wedding and coronation dresses - undoubtedly the most important of her career.

the year that results in a complete lack of any knowledge. This means that vast swathes of time have been taken up by teaching yourself most of your modules.

Therefore, this leaves little time to actually reinforce the stuff you’ve learnt. So basically: blame the university and feel free to complain; it won’t affect any of us next year so go nuts. Obviously, this paragraph doesn’t apply if you’re not a fresher, so apologies where it’s due.

However, in my experience, it’s not the exam process itself that’s the most stressful thing about this time of year, it’s the fact that exams bring out the worst in people. Most people get a bit stressed, a bit touchy, and some people go a bit weird after so much time actually working. This is all completely understandable, but what is incomprehensible for me is the behaviour some people seem to adopt. My least favourite type of person rears their ugly head at this time of year, and they seem to be everywhere at the moment. This is the person who you know has done an impressively large amount of revision, but then tells you they’ve done nothing. Has it really got to the stage where you need to lie about doing work?

I mean, maybe I’m being a bit judgemental here, but I think it says a lot about a person who feels they should cling to their rung on the social ladder, rather than admit the fact they’re motivated to do well in what we’ve ultimately committed to spending nearly £10,000 on. I know this is not the case for the vast majority of students who are just too lazy to

do it – that’s completely understandable.

On the other hand, my favourite person at this time of year is the person who tells you they’ve done no revision when they actually haven’t. It may make me a terrible person, but there’s something oddly comforting about that guy that everyone agrees is probably going to fail, and it makes you feel better about your own progress. He may have made some terrible life choices, but lets admit it, everyone loves him and at least you won’t come last. Also first year law students finish on the 10th of May, so I’m not particularly fond of this lot right now either.

“There’s something oddly comforting about that guy that everyone agrees is probably going to fail” However, the majority of people sit bang in the middle, all in panic mode, struggling to piece together half made notes, running out of ink in a sudden rampage of printing lecture notes, and buying 14 biros for the exam. The only comfort is, we’re all in the same boat, safe in the knowledge that no one is having a stress-free time at this point of year.

In all likelihood your exams will go fine and all this worrying is much ado about nothing. If they don’t – retake.

There you have it, and I’m assuming this article as a whole provided enough mirth to quell all your fears about the upcoming examinations. Thought so.

Aunty Laura and Uncle Harry are here to help I’m feeling really overwhelmed by the upcoming exams and I really don’t know what do. I’ve revised okay up till now, but I seem to spend half of my time panicking as I get closer to my exams.

Whenever I try to work I feel so anxious about failing that I’m completely unable to concentrate! To make things worse, all of my flatmates seem to be coping fine with the pressure so I feel like I can’t speak to them as they’ll think I’m making a big deal over nothing.

What can I do to keep calm?

From, Anxious Second Year”

Laura Greenfield

Harry McCarthy

TAKE a moment to breathe. You say revision has gone okay up until now, so what has changed? Just the number of days before the big day? It’s normal and even a good thing to feel a bit of pressure, but too much can make anyone crumble. Positive thinking goes a long way in gaining positive results. Perhaps it would be good to structure your revision around breaks. Endorphins work like magic when stressed - so take time for exercise. Meditation and yoga can work wonders for the mind and body too. Why not treat yourself to an evening off and plan something exciting with your friends? Next time you feel the pressure, think, “what is the worst that could happen?” An exam is only an exam. Whether you scrape a pass or smash a first, you’ll want to know that you did your best. But in the moments that make up your life, the chances are these exams will play a nominal part in your success.

EVERYONE deals with pressure in different ways, and unfortunately some are better at dealing with it than others.

What we all have in common, however, is that we do all feel pressure, so while your flatmates may appear calm and cool on the outside, the chances are that on the inside they’re just as worried as you are! If this is the case then they’ll certainly appreciate the opportunity to vent their frustrations, and who better than to one of their best friends? It’s never good to bottle anything up. Sharing your worries and doubts may help you to focus. It can be extremely difficult to get past the ‘I’m going to fail’ barrier before you even start working, but you’ve said yourself that you’ve been working fine until this point. One final push is all you need to ensure success, but make sure that you give yourself some downtime too, or you’ll never get anything done!

Get your skates on, and

get ahead of the pack!

There are only a few weeks left of this academic year – wouldn’t it be great to get that Exeter Award in the bag before summer?

If you are leaving University this year it will help you get ahead of the 300,000 other graduates entering the job market. On the other hand, if you are a returning student wouldn’t it be great to prioritise your studies next year?

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..the rest is down to you.

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20

8 May 2012 |

MUSIC

Music

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MUSIC EDITORS

Callum McLean & Anthony Prodromou music@exepose.com JOIN THE FACEBOOK GROUP Exeposé Music

The shape of things to come...

Callum McLean, Music Editor, grills Alt-J on triangles, hipsters and Fearne Cotton

9th May Beats and Bass Cavern 10th May Jabbrock Mama Stones 14th May Alkaline Trio (Rescheduled) Lemon Grove 14th May Karima Francis + Guests Cavern 15th May Thick As Thieves Cellar Door 17th May Gandy Street Festival Phoenix/Cavern + More Gandy Street plays host to a spread of the SouthWest’s artists and DJs.

18th May Wretch 32 Lemon Grove 23rd May The Horrors O2 Academy Bristol 30th May Pigeon Detectives Phoenix

Freebie of the Fortnight

We trawl through the interwebs so you don’t have to...

Jason Nolan - Jason Nolan EP Debut EP from a fantastic Surrey based electronic artist.

Definitely one to watch. Grab it at his facebook page: facebook.com/sonnohands

IN a backroom of the Exeter Phoenix, some hours before florid art rockers Wild Beasts grace the stage, Alt-J – a self-dubbed ‘trip-folk’ band whose moniker stems from the Mac keyboard shortcut for a triangle – sidle round a huge paint-splattered oak table. “This is what art’s all about, I’m heavily inspired by this table”.

It’s immediately clear from frontman Joe Newman’s tongue in cheek references to his creative output that we’re not dealing with the straight geometry-hugging art-school scenesters that you might expect: “We’re really not hipsters. I can’t pull it off”. “I don’t even like East London” chips in keyboardist Gus. You can’t blame anyone for assuming otherwise, something they readily admit. “If I was observing us and didn’t know much about the band, I’d be like ‘oh, they’re the apotheosis of fucking hipster – they’re so hipster they’ve just called their band name triangle.’

Sounds like something off Nathan Barley. But we’re actually not like that.”

And it’s difficult not to believe them. Underneath all their face-concealing press shots and Joe Newman’s theatrical vocal delivery, there seems

to be a constant boyish enthusiasm for making music because they think it’s interesting, not because they think it’s cool. Newman’s hyper-nasal trills lack the affect of a poseur, above all sounding brilliantly odd in their dextrous swells and squeals. It’s just another instrument in the band’s mix of crisp, often playful arrangements (hear the choral interweaving of the outro of new single ‘Breezeblocks’). And the end product, rather than being full of coarse slow burners, is wholly palatable. It’s no wonder that, rather than being relegated to the backstreets of Hackney or the more obscure corners of the blogosphere, they’re being heralded on daytime Radio 1 by the likes of Fearne Cotton. Does this bother them? “We’ve not got any kind of manifesto. We just write the kind of music that we like”.

“We’re both high and lowbrow!” adds Joe. “Not that Fearne Cotton’s lowbrow… She’s very high…” (“Edit that out, she’ll hear!” sniggers Gus).

Perhaps it helps that they aren’t pandering to the aesthetic in vogue; despite being a four-piece with synthesisers they miraculously avoid inclusion into the ubiquitous 80s revival, actually drawing more from the decade

that followed. As well as claiming a sonic debt to Thom Yorke, they make lyrical reference to 1994 film Leon in single ‘Matilda’ and take their album name from a passage in 1991 psychological thriller American Psycho. “…

Relief washes over me like an awesome wave”, reads out Joe after rifling through his iPhone; “I took a picture of it! I thought it would be useful for these interview situations!”

“We’re really not hipsters. I can’t pull it off. I don’t even like East London.”

Such excited errs into cultural reference, rather than being self-conscious claims for an aesthetic, mark a charmingly genuine curiosity about the factors that feed into Alt-J’s music. “I just love that idea of relief, or fear, being like a tidal wave washing over your head”. Fear? “The title track is about being beaten up, being in Southampton common and being approached by youths! That feeling where people have come up to us with things in their hands and it’s not nice, it’s scary.”

They stress that their references are

not purely anecdotal though. “I think that it’s important to be influenced by more than just music in your songwriting”, notes Gus, and Joe agrees: “You just write about what moves you, it can be anything. Anything that touches you.” They both giggle. “Not in an inappropriate way”. Clearing his throat like the class clown trying to raise the tone, Gus faces Joe. “Your song writing hits it just right between being too cerebral and also having a nice amount of interesting references and stuff” “Yeah, I like there to be a lot of layers to the writing, that it’s not just really obvious”. It doesn’t last. “We do still have some songs about girls” “Lots of songs about girls” Joe agrees. In an academic context of course? “Sometimes, sometimes not, sometimes it’s just about sex! Yeah, you know, girls and books and films”. “We should have called the album that”, concludes Gus. An Awesome Wave comes out 28th May; download the Breezeblocks demo for free on Soundcloud. You can catch Alt-J live at The Cooler, Bristol, Fri 1st June.

Exeposé

| Week twenty-five

Music

21

Hitting all the right notes: perfect revision music Contributors join forces with Music to find the best albums around for concentrating and de-stressing during exam season. A mixture of electronica, rock and modern classical make up your musical deterrent to procrasturbation.

Wander/Wonder Balam Acab

BALAM ACAB’S haunting first LP is a must for late ones spent on that essay.

Musical escapism at its very best, simply plug in your headphones, turn it up, and drown yourself in Alec Koone’s eerily beautiful, lush productions. It is ambient electronica at its very best, and a way to completely relax whilst simultaneously pushing your worryingly low word count out of your head with its unearthly serene power. Sounds pretentious, but give it a listen and feel your stress ebb away into its sonic landscape.

ANTHONY PRODROMOU MUSIC EDITOR

Boys & Girls Alabama Shakes

IF the revision blues are getting you down, you could do a lot worse than dabbling in a bit of real American blues. The genre has enjoyed an upturn in mainstream success recently with the long-awaited breakthrough of the Black Keys, although while their sound is fuzzy and rock-orientated, Alabama Shakes have a more traditional deep southern sound. In frontwoman Brittany Howard and guitarist Heath Fogg they

Una Mattina Ludovico Einaudi

THE twisted temptation for recommending revision music would be to advise an unutterably dull album in order to force you to ‘enjoy’ the act of work. However, Ludovico Einaudi’s ‘Una Mattina’ is absolutely the best accompaniment I can think of for revision. With lyrical piano phrases and sparse cello, Einaudi manages to make those masses of lined paper look like silken pillows – it is atmospheric to the

boast two supreme talents that drive this band forward. Fogg’s riffs and melodies provide a strong platform to the album, commencing with the instant classic ‘Hold On’. However, it is the vocalist Howard who delivers the real treat. Her opening lines “Bless my heart, bless my soul / Didn’t think I’d make it to twentytwo years old” suggest a playful sense of irony delivered with full confidence.

Further into the album the tunes get progressively sunnier. ‘I Found You’ continues the brilliant opening with the band sauntering along to Howard’s vocals. ‘Hang Loose’ features a rolling riff that sustains that lovely relaxed vibe, prefiguring the festival season ahead (and so appeasing the monotony of revision). The energetic instrumentals continue in ‘Rise to the Sun’, however, it is the fifth track ‘You Ain’t Alone’ that is the real highlight. A stripped down ballad that allows Howard to express her vulnerabilities in the spotlight, this modern Motown track will connect with you in those long, solitary revision hours.

Howard recently stated how her life had become “surreal” with the band’s global success, and she poignantly transmits this in the lyrics: “Cause I’m scared the storm’s gonna take me away”.

The rest of the album continues in a similar vein, if not as quite successfully as the first half. In ‘Heartbreaker’ Howard screams at the world against a torrent of guitars and drums. It is hard to believe that Alabama Shakes have only been out of school for a few years, their confidence is so strong and wrapped in polished production. Their debut culminates with ‘On Your Way,’ which suggests a mellow ending before entering a rousing finale, once again accompanied by doubtful lyrics: “It wasn’t me, why wasn’t it me?”

With Howard’s soulful delivery and consistent blues support, Alabama Shakes will get you in the mood for summer while providing inspiration in the pre-exam period.

nth degree.

The album is essentially soothing piano music, but its genius lies in Einaudi’s ability to sculpt each song’s structure so that phrases are repeated and built upon, in order to keep precisely the same mood and yet never to bore. I find the album to be unassuming enough to be kept firmly in the background (essential for concentration) but at the same time this is by no means bad music, mixing the melancholy minor chords of ‘Resta Con Me’ with the powerful arpeggios of the epic ‘Ancora’, the twelve-minute album-closer.

In a practical sense, Einaudi’s music and revision go hand in hand.

Play Una Mattina from start to finish whilst studying and you’ll have clocked in just over an hour of work. You will undoubtedly find yourself breezing through work in a contemplative-yetinspired mood so make your way through the rest of Einaudi’s work available on Spotify and, come the dreaded end of such divine music, a stellar six hours

of work will have been tended to. As the Italian composer’s oeuvre is highly recommended, I will always return to Una Mattina as the epitome of ‘ambient’ and ‘contemplative’ revision music.

Throughout the album, Einaudi provides a flawless lesson in the marriage of calm chords and sorrowful melody, but never takes on that overused musical adjective “depressing”. The cello on ‘A Fuoco’ lulls you into a sense of serenity, then ‘Dietro Casa’ midway through and ‘Nuvole Bianche’ use the same formulas to arouse uplifting confidence.

Interestingly, the latter has featured in the This Is England ’86 series as well as in Ricky Gervais’ recent drama ‘Derek’ as an unashamed audience-cue for sadness.

Such cinematic recommendations are as good a justification as any for you to occasionally look up and out of a window and pretend to reside in an exam-related movie montage, obviously a great idea since everybody knows montages always end in success...

PAUL SIMPSON

The Earth Is Not A Cold Dead Place Explosions In The Sky

MORE of an inspiration than anything else, this beauty of a release from veteran post-rockers Explosions in the Sky reminds you that everything is, and will be, okay. Standouts like ‘Memorial’ and the staggeringly deep ‘Your Hand in Mine’ will have you weeping with joy whilst hatefully filling in your BART sheets. Intelligent, emotive rock music that can’t help but give you a lift even when in the darkest of revision filled holes. Exeter isn’t a cold dead place after all, guys!

ANTHONY PRODROMOU MUSIC EDITOR

American Football American Football

MATT BUGLER

MADE in 1999, back when emo was about relaxed contemplation of the world rather than teenagers dying their hair purple, American Football’s only album is a master class in how to drift off and de-stress. The layers of reverbdrenched guitars and beautifully simple arpeggios put over soft drums with minimalist, but thought-provoking vocals, make it effortless to listen to, which is what you want when your head is full of tension and worries. Eight minute epic ‘Stay Home’ provides the perfect mind cleanser for when you need to work hard, and when you don’t .

BEN WINSOR, ONLINE MUSIC EDITOR

The English Riviera Metronomy

MY go-to album for de-stressing, from Devon’s very own electro-pop quartet, Metronomy. Their soothing sounds are perfect for relaxing during the trials and tribulations of exam time, and will allow you to temporarily sail away on a British summer holiday before ‘Love Underlined’ plays out to reality.

The album epitomises the South West seaside and is able to instantly transport you to sunny beaches with fish and chips, despite the almost certainly grim weather outside. The opening sounds of sea gulls and the tide breaking on the shore give way to an album full of chilled beats, dreamy vocals and infectious choruses.

DAISY MEAGER, ONLINE MUSIC EDITOR

Exeposé

| Week twenty-five

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Newsreel A-Ha! Iannucci announces Partridge film Executive Producer Armando Iannucci has announced that Steve Coogan will star in an Alan Partridge film, provisionally titled The Alan Partridge Movie, which will hit our screens in 2013. Iannucci, who wrote The Thick of It, confirmed that the script has been written and that filming will start later this year.

Batman marketing campaign goes viral As the hype around The Dark Knight Rises intensifies, a viral campaign has been released, in conjunction with a new trailer, to build more excitement for what will surely be the film event of the year.

Homeland returns for second series Fans of gritty American drama and/or Damian Lewis will be delighted to hear that Homeland, whose first series has just finished in the UK, will return to screens Stateside in Autumn of this year.

Screen SCREEN EDITORS

Louis Doré & Owen Keating screen@exepose.com JOIN THE FACEBOOK GROUP Exeposé Screen

Spotlight: XTV Tom Bond, Books Editor, celebrates the success of XTV WHEN I started this year I have to confess I barely knew that XTV existed, but as I write it has consumed my life to such a degree that I’ve seriously considered packing in the whole higher education lark and roaming Exeter with a camcorder.

XTV’s year began with its trademark eccentricity and comedic touch with the release of Last Chances & Lollipops, a surreal experiment that shows just what you can achieve with two cameras and three days. It can be best described as a Surrealist romantic-comedy-turnedzombie film, by way of a Russian circus, a Film Noir and a gripping kidnap drama (yes, really), If that sounds mad, then yes, you’re right; and if that sounds amazing, then yes, you’re also right.

“I’ve seriously considered packing in the whole higher education lark and roaming Exeter with a camcorder” The comedy continued throughout the year with two hilarious mockumentaries on Parkour and intra-mural football that recreated the scarring reality of both sports with uncanny precision. These were accompanied by a string of sketch show episodes from Strength Through Joy and Bang + Whimper that featured a retrospective of what’s left of The Famous Five and the most blackly comic look at World War One since Edmund Blackadder was recruited. This sketch

was my personal highlight as we did our best to recreate the Somme on campus.

It was also the moment that myself and George Causer, the show’s producers, progressed from being grossly negligent to barely competent.

XTV also made a technical leap forward, filming numerous live broadcasts of hockey, rugby and football matches in association with local business UniSportOnline. This partnership pushed XTV’s technical skills to the limit and created exciting new opportunities that took the crew from Bath to Twickenham and back.

The level of ambition amongst members also reached an all-time high this year with bold and demanding projects on both the creative and factual sides.

Released at a Picturehouse screening in March, Words Not Money is XTV’s first feature-length film. Clocking in at just under an hour, this comedy heist film is an epic achievement for a superb ensemble cast and crew, especially when you consider it was done alongside their degrees. On the factual side, the producers of The Longest Week set themselves the seemingly impossible task of documenting the insanity of Freshers’ Week in only an hour. If the prospect of filming non-stop for a week with a depleted committee wasn’t daunting enough, the hundreds of hours of footage produced had to be cut down to just one. The producers’ commitment was duly rewarded with a Highly Commended award for Best Documentary at the NaSTAs with a ten minute edit, an achievement in itself.

The station’s regular factual output remained as strong as ever with plenty of brilliant episodes from music show Venue, lifestyle show Uncovered, new fashion show X-Fashion and film show Cameo. The latter was undoubtedly the jewel in XTV’s crown, taking home a thoroughly-deserved award for Best Factual at the recent NaSTA awards in Nottingham.

“The level of ambition amongst members has reached an all-time high this year with bold and demanding projects” There were also several great music videos produced including Good Intentions by local artist Sunday Son, which won Highly Commended for Best Video to Music. The level of acting and presenting was also as high as usual with Lindsey Harris winning Highly Commended for Best On-Screen female; judge Kate Garraway praised her engaging interview technique.

On top of all this success, XTV also won the bid to host the NaSTAs on its 40th anniversary next year, bringing the ceremony into our own back yard.

There’s never been a better time to be part of XTV.

The very best of XTV at a glance...

The Longest Week

A thought-provoking and professionally produced insight into one of the busiest and occasionally most difficult weeks of the University year.

OWEN KEATING

Cameo

Cameo looks impressively professional.

It’s like the BBC’s film programme, only student-focused and a lot more fun. Dan Orton stands out as natural.

LIAM TRIM

Bang + Whimper

The show demonstrates an innovative range of media which pushes the boundaries of student television - successfully subverting all expectations.

REBECCA LODDER

Good Intentions

I thought that the filter and editing for the muic video were very professional and fitted the music perfectly!

MADDIE SOPER

Films to see before you graduate: Misery (1990) Director: Rob Reiner Cast: Kathy Bates, James Caan, Richard Farnsworth (18) 107mins

SOMETIMES there is no denying that as viewers we love films that unsettle us, and I’m not talking about the sort of unsettled feeling you get when an unapologetically thunderous sex scene bursts onto the TV on a family movie night. It’s more a sense of foreboding, something sinister that squeezes slightly on your stomach without making you jump out of your skin. Enter Rob Rein-

23

er’s Misery, a skilfully made realisation of a Stephen King classic.

Author Paul Sheldon (James Caan) finds himself in an utterly hopeless position. He’s comatose in a car, legs broken and shoulder dislocated after crashing in the middle of nowhere. Thankfully, ex-nurse Annie Wilkes (Kathy Bates) is there to save him, taking him back to her remote house to nurse him back to health. Lucky right? No, not by a long shot. He’s trapped, bedridden and dependent on both painkillers and his ‘number one fan’ who has more than an unhealthy obsession with him and his work, and a dark past to boot. As the tagline says, ‘Paul Sheldon used to write

for a living. Now, he’s writing to stay alive.’

“You are never quite sure whether she deserves your pity for what she does, and it is this uncertainty which makes her so deliciously complex as a character” In an Oscar winning performance, Kathy Bates excels in portraying, in my opinion, one of the greatest villains ever created. Wilkes flits wildly between a sickly sweet disposition and horrifying

rages, and I’m still not sure which one is the most disturbing. One minute she’ll be fawning over Paul, her darling author and the man she loves, and the next she’ll be torturing him, or even herself.

You are never quite sure whether she deserves your pity for what she does, and it is this uncertainty which makes her so deliciously complex as a character.

Several films based on King’s work fall into obscurity, while others such as The Shawshank Redemption resulted in powerful and unforgettable pieces.

Misery certainly falls into the latter category, and deservedly so.

ROBERT J HARRIS

Salmon Fishing in the Yemen

Director: Lasse Hallestrom Cast: Ewan McGregor, Emily Blunt, Kristin Scott-Thomas (12A 107mins) FROM the director of Chocolat (2000) and the screenwriter of Slumdog Millionaire (2008), comes this witty romcom, which sees an unlikely duo striving to bring a crazy scheme together; namely, Salmon Fishing in the Yemen.

Bridget Maxwell (Scott-Thomas), the PM’s spin doctor, is desperate for positivity regarding the Middle East, and stumbles upon an eccentric Sheikh wishing to introduce fly-fishing to the Arab desert. She drags fisheries expert Alfred Jones (McGregor) into her plan, which is led by the Sheikh’s representative Harriet (Emily Blunt). Harriet and Jones undertake a poignant and emotionally fulfilling journey, discovering themselves and each other.

This is a perfectly adequate romcom, albeit one which is let down by its script. Scott Thomas’ brilliant performance subversively critiques government media protocol, while McGregor’s dry sense of humour complements a likeable, geeky, and strangely attractive character. Stunning scenery of the Scottish Highlands, the Yemeni Desert and enviable views of London create locations that add to the emotional integrity of the film.

Forgetting the slightly ridiculous storyline, McGregor and Blunt’s performances are worthy of considerable praise; both stand out as solid and dynamic in comparison to the mediocre situation they’re cast into. Blunt’s attractive and admirable character avoids becoming mere ‘eye-candy’, carrying the film with ease, whilst the affable McGregor ensures his character doesn’t become too one-dimensional.

An enjoyable and engaging watch.

BETH WRIGHT

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Avengers Assemble Director: Joss Whedon Cast: Robert Downey Jr., Mark Ruffalo, , Scarlett Johansson (12A) 142mins THE summer blockbuster season kicks off in a big way this year with the much heralded Avengers Assemble.

Unless you’ve been living under a rock since 2008 you’ll know this is big: the culmination of a story five movies in the making. But is it all it’s cracked up to be?

The answer is a very definitive yes: Avengers Assemble delivers in spades. I can’t have been the only one that thought it was going to be car-crash cinema when the movie was first announced: a cast with seven leads, a host of backstories to untangle and yet knit together and a story that will appease both mainstream

The Hunger Games Director: Gary Ross Cast: Stanley Tucci, Wes Bentley, Jennifer Lawrence (12) 142mins AFTER the enormous success of a certain vampire-based franchise, The Hunger Games leads a new wave of dystopian teen fiction, appealing to those who love a good love triangle while also covering broader political issues. In an unspecified future, a boy and girl from each of the twelve regions of Panem (a post-apocalyptic USA) must compete against each other in a fight to the death, as punishment for a previous rebellion against the totalitarian Capitol. Author Suzanne Collins gained inspiration for the series by flicking channels between real war coverage and reality TV, and there is an unsettling excitement you feel in watching who will be the last one standing.

Indeed, the first act before the games start feels like an extended preview of what is to come, building an unbearable level of suspense as we learn about the children who will be murdering each other to the entertainment of

audiences and fanboys and fangirls alike sounded like a recipe for utter disaster.

And yet Whedon pulls it off with finesse.

His script, which is more a love letter to the comicbook medium, manages to capture the vibrant feel of the books while bringing something new to the table. It’s genuinely very funny, without referencing too many in-jokes from Marvel lore, and is suitably epic in scale to bring all these heroes together. While the film does occasionally sag in places you’ll more than forgive these weaker moments as the epic finale unfolds. It’s

CHRISTOPHER PRESTON the nation. After the opening bloodbath of the games, the rest of the film throws a series of constant surprises as the numbers left in the arena dwindle. Jennifer Lawrence is superb as protagonist Katniss, bringing the character alive with a fierce survival instinct that guarantees her iconic status amongst her female fans.

The film faces the difficulty of not having the novel’s first-person narrative, and sometimes it is unclear what Katniss’s true feelings are towards her rival/love interest Peeta. However, this is offset by multiple scenes that pan out the of arena to see the reactions of the twisted Gamemakers and oppressed citizens, with one poignant scene showing a district start a riot after the unjust death of their young contestant.

The potential violence of the film is toned down through shaky hand-held camera work, which may detract from the realism but does support the chaos and confusion that fills the arena. This allows it to reach all audiences, and with such an intriguing plot and themes, this can only be a good thing.

MATT BUGLER

Screen asks...

If you could have one actor/ actress play you in a film, who would it be?

Luke Graham: “I’ve already had an actor play me in a film. His name was Sean Astin and it was in a trilogy of films about a ring...”

LUKE GRAHAM

“I could only ever be played by Calum Baker, or at the very least the lovechild of Emma Thompson and Colin Firth” DAN ORTON

“Robert Downey Jr., as his egodriven Tony Stark is fine preparation for playing me” HUGH BLACKSTAFFE

“The guy who voiced Snarf in Thundercats” CALUM BAKER

“Michelle Williams in the emotional scenes, Jennifer Lawrence in the clumsy and adorable scenes, and Zooey Deschanel for any scene where the maximum demand of acting talent is ‘quirkiness’” MADDIE SOPER

everything I wanted and more.

The cast sparkle and I was happy everyone got their moment in the sun.

Stand outs for me were Tom Hiddlestone as Loki, who carries the villain side of things squarely on his shoulders, and newcomer Mark Ruffalo who plays the best version of the Hulk ever. Seriously.

It was like seeing the character for the first time again and his scenes were easily my favourite of the entire film.

I usually like Jeremy Renner but his Hawkeye was the only one who felt a little like the ghost at the superhero feast.

I do still think The Dark Knight Rises is going to smash Avengers out of the park but who cares? For now it’s the best film of the year, it’s extraordinary fun and has shown the world that it is the geeks who truly will inherit the earth.

One film at a time.

“Michael Fassbender, because he’d need my extensive coaching” TORI BRAZIER “Ideally, Ryan Gosling. In reality, David Mitchell” OWEN KEATING

Titanic 3D Director: James Cameron Cast: Leonardo DiCaprio, Kate Winslet, Billy Zane (12) 194mins TITANIC was an unstoppable global phenomenon. Box office sales of more than $1billion and eleven Oscar nominations made Leonardo Di Caprio and Kate Winslet into stars. Fifteen years on, director and visionary James Cameron has reimagined the film, with the addition of some whizzy 3D cameras.

Unsurprisingly, the story is still the same: Di Caprio plays Jack as youthful and energetic, and Kate Winslet is haughty, arrogant, and absolutely gorgeous as Rose, the oppressed rich girl who longs for a change from the dreary, pretentious norm that her life

Exeposé

has become. A soppy and unrealistic plotline is mitigated by strong acting and believable character motivation, making the film inherently watchable.

The 3D treatment only improves the film. Relationships are intensified, the scenes where the ship sinks are astonishing, and the portions where we see the revelry below decks become only more atmospheric. However, while the 3D visuals are incredible, the sound has been neglected. Despite a budget of $18 million for the remake, some scenes are let down by tinny dialogue and weak sound effects.

Based on a good film in its own right, Titanic 3D packs a punch that its predecessor perhaps lacked.

OWEN KEATING SCREEN EDITOR

TV Review: The Voice BRITAIN’S GOT TALENT finally has a viable competitor. The Voice is the new kid on the talent show block, with a new layout, edgy presenters, and a whole new ethos.

As presenter Reggie Yates regularly informs us, this is a show that is only interested in the quality of one’s vocals; nothing else matters. To start with, this concept just about held together, because of the clever gimmick of having the judging panel face away from the performers, so that they had to judge them on voice alone. However, I spent more time watching the judges looking thoughtful than I did watching actual singing.

In the latter stages, this altruistic ‘looks don’t matter’ approach is dumped, as each mentor was required to cut their team in half. At this point just about every old or unphotogenic contestant was routinely ‘cleansed’ from the show.

In the ongoing public vote stages, the show becomes a weird X-Factor hybrid, where sycophantic judges give the impression that they’ve never heard adequate vocals before, while the crowd behave like toddlers who have OD’d on red smarties. It’s already all a bit kitsch, despite the presenters’ regular pleas to vote based on the vocals alone.

Speaking of the judges, the BBC hasn’t done too badly. Will.i.Am

Wrath of the Titans Director: Jonathan Liebesman Cast: Sam Worthington, Liam Neeson, Ralph Fiennes (12A) 99mins FOLLOWING on from 2010’s Clash of the same Titans, Wrath is the second instalment in the Hollywood-does-Greekmythology saga, complete stunning visuals, an un-traversable labyrinth, and plenty of crash-bang-wallop.

The plot is a simple one: with their immortality threatened, treachery is afoot as Greek gods Hades and Ares have struck a deal with the evil imprisoned Kronos to save themselves. Embracing his destiny, Perseus once again takes sword in hand and must rescue his father Zeus before Kronos wrecks havoc on the whole of civilisation! It’s your classic

spouts quirky asides as if he were a cartoon character, and Tom Jones is dignified and knowledgable. Jessie J doesn’t seem to know what she’s talking about, despite her stellar career. Then there’s Danny (surname: ‘From the Script’), whose place on the panel reeks of a last minute withdrawal. His facial expressions are as baffling as his mullet is questionable.

I haven’t mentioned the contestants themselves yet.

They’re smiley and talented, exactly how you’d expect. Every audition was of pleasingly high quality, making it a genuine surprise to see who got through. In this respect, The Voice is certainly less exploitative than BGT, which continues to manipulate the delusional and the vulnerable for our entertainment. Sadly, most of the more distinct performers have already been eliminated, meaning the remaining contestants seem just a bit dull.

Overall, The Voice isn’t the talent show competition revolution it promises to be. Still, it’s easily the best talent show in what is fast becoming a very crowded market.

ALEX HAWKSWORTH-BROOKS doomed-apocalypse “only our hero can save the day” stuff, only with half of Britain’s best acting talent dressed up as Greek Gods.

“Lovers of this franchise will no doubt claim that at only 99 minutes it falls a little short” Despite admittedly stellar turns from Ralph Fiennes as Hades, Liam Neeson as Zeus, and a criminally underused Bill Nighy, the film was let down by the central performance from Sam Worthington, who spends half the movie staring dreamily into the middle distance, and the other half never quite capturing the audience’s faith and support. Wooden doesn’t even begin to describe Édgar Ramírez as Ares, whose blind

hatred of his brother and father and dedication to evil Kronos is at times utterly bewildering.

Whilst the mythological aspect is well done and faithful to its classical roots, the film unfortunately falls short on the human aspect, venturing more often than not into over-acting. It suffers the same fate as so many high-paced Hollywood blockbusters; potentially a spectacular movie in its cast and visual effects (particularly in its climactic scenes), it just doesn’t have the compelling story or writing to pull it off. As an audience, we’re never seriously engaged.

Lovers of this franchise will no doubt claim that at only 99 minutes it falls a little short, but for a film that doesn’t quite reach the potential its scope and cast list promised, in my opinion it was certainly long enough.

MADDIE SOPER

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8 May 2012 |

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BOOKS EDITORS

Tom Bond & Emily Lunn books@exepose.com JOIN THE FACEBOOK GROUP Exeposé Books Photo: Joshua Irwandi

Books Playlist We asked you who your most controversial literary characters are.

Here are our top five: 1. Palahniuk books: there’s a supermodel who shoots off her own face and feeds female hormones to her ex as revenge, a dwarf who beats up and rapes people in toilet cubicles, a sex addict who scams people into giving him money... the list goes on. And on.

JESSAMY QUEREE

2. Alex from A Clockwork Orange; a youth who enjoys brutal, druginduced rape, but is partial to a bit of Beethoven.

Can’t get much more controversial than a killer whose favourite radio station would be Radio 3.

BEN WINSOR

3. Alban McGill from Iain Banks’ The Steep Approach to Garbadale.

Falls madly in love and has sex with his cousin one teenage summer, then spends the ensuing years jaded and lovelorn.

It’s an obviously scandalous and incestuous story, but written in such a way that you can’t help but get drawn in by the romantic melancholy of the affair. A slight touch of the Humbert Humberts about it.

RHYS LAVERTY

4. Most controversial character in all literature? This isn’t meant to be an attack but, simply: God. Think about it.

CALUM BAKER

5. Holden Caulfield from Catcher in the Rye. If he lived today he’d be an art student hipster bemoaning on Twitter that “everyone’s a phony!”

LUKE GRAHAM

Goodness gracious, great books on fire!

How far is too far? Nicholas Armstrong, Calum Baker and Rhys Laverty debate controversial material in books RL: I think there’s a real issue when people talk about censoring classic literature, like with recent calls in Italy for Divine Comedy to be banned from the syllabus. There is something really peculiar with calling for a work that is decades, even centuries out of its time to be banned or censored - however offensive or provocative the content is. Those works have bled influentially into culture and literature since their publication, and calling for their withdrawal after that is both impossible and ridiculous.

“I’d say you do students a disservice by failing to introduce them to history’s most scandalous pieces of literature.”

NA: Much of our modern attitude to art is shaped by the “art for art’s sake” movement that emerged around the turn of the century. We hold up these pieces of art, but refrain from making moral judgments on them because they are considered disconnected from reality. I find this attitude hard to reconcile: the religious base to a text such as Divine Comedy means that it was clearly meant to persuade and convince - shouldn’t we then have the right to deem it inflammatory?

Honestly, though, I am not disputing Divine Comedy’s right to a readership.

Frankly, it seems ridiculous to discard

a great piece of literature on the basis of two or three cantos. What I’m really disputing is excusing certain works of literature based upon relative age.

CB: There’s a fantastic letter from Kurt Vonnegut to a school principal from North Dakota, who banned and burned copies of Slaughterhouse-Five.

He retaliated with this: “you should acknowledge that it was a rotten lesson you taught young people in a free society when you denounced and then burned books [...] You should also resolve to expose your children to all sorts of opinions and information, in order that they will be better equipped to make decisions and to survive.”

To take anything off a syllabus is to remove a voice from an ongoing debate, but then, can’t people discover things for themselves?

NA: If you take Vonnegut’s argument to the extreme, many of the texts established on various syllabi would have to be discarded in favour of those that promote extreme views - Hitler’s Mein Kampf would become essential reading. It’s difficult to judge the effect that inflammatory literature might have on people at an impressionable age.

RL: It’s fascinating that this discussion has already zoomed in on the teaching of offensive literature, rather than the simple act of reading it. We’d be okay for an individual to study Mein Kampf in private and reach their own

conclusions, but for it to be taught in a literature class, even in a totally negative way, would be scandalous.

Don’t we trust students to exercise their own thoughts and opinions? I’d say you do them a disservice by failing to introduce them to history’s most scandalous pieces of literature.

“Some of the 20th century’s most inflammatory works are now inescapable in the classroom” Some of the 20th century’s most inflammatory works are now inescapable in the classroom - Lord of the Flies, The Catcher in the Rye, Lolita - a bizarre turnaround.

NA: I think that I’d probably chalk their newfound acceptability down to artistic understanding. Although these works may have originally been considered inflammatory, in time the general readership recognised that the purpose of these pieces wasn’t to inflame, but to provide some sort of constructive depiction.

Ginsberg’s Howl was defended in court with the argument that it served some sort of artistic purpose, therefore making its obscenity acceptable. I think that this, for me, is where the distinction between what is inflammatory and not emerges.

CB: So how can we look at works

written with the sole purpose of being controversial? Lolita may have been written to make a point, its controversy being inseparable from that aim and the way it was expressed, but there are works created entirely to shock and provoke moral outrage. These works were supposed to be wild moral upheavals, their controversy being an intentional method for putting across the ‘point’.

It’s that classic stance: ‘If so many people hate it, then I did something right.’

I’m talking about deliberately pornographic works such as The Story of the Eye, and morally outrageous works such as The Wasp Factory. Make it grotesque! That’ll get a reaction!

Ginsberg wrote an obscene poem, but did not expect it to get such a reaction; others have written obscene works, anticipating the reaction. It is not so much whether artistry excuses incidental obscenity as whether it should be a direct platform for obscenity.

RL: Is there a point though where you can’t justify using offensive material to make a point? Or where there’s some kind of hypocrisy involved?

Look at The Hunger Games with its critique of how today children are desensitised to violence and subjected to increasingly adult material. In order to make that point, the book and the film have to depict children indulging in said violence. I’m a fan of the franchise, but I still can’t work out how comfortable I am with that dynamic.

Exeposé

| Week twenty-five

BOOKS

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When fact is stranger than fiction

Don’t know what to read next? Cyan Turan leaves fiction behind to explore the charm of non-fiction I FINISHED my degree in English Literature less than a week ago and, in the days leading up to my final deadline, my thoughts weren’t simply occupied by getting completely obliterated in Arena but also by what, on earth, I would read next.

“Great works of non-fiction graduate from the school of real life, where the most unimaginable events occur” For, as most English students would attest, there is very little time in-between the two books a week to actually get down to reading something of your own choosing. The prospect of devouring a book in its full and replete wholeness, without the sinking feeling that you prob-

The Unfolding of Language Guy Deutscher Arrow Books Ltd ISBN: 0099460254 WHEN you stop and think about it, language really is a pretty unbelievable thing. The fact that I can stick a certain combination of lines and squiggles on a page or string together a set of sounds and make you understand seems almost miraculous.

“The changes happening in language at this very moment are drawn to our attention” What’s even stranger is that if I were to slightly vary the shape of my squiggles, perhaps start jotting them down from right to left, you probably would not understand me at all – but someone else out there might.

ably, really should be reading a set course text, was deliciously exciting.

Before coming to University, a large number of the books I read were works of non-fiction. The best non-fiction texts tell a story too, and the best writers of nonfiction are often the most fantastic storytellers. Sceptics should start by reading the opening chapter of E. H. Gombrich’s A Little History of the World, in which he states: “All stories begin with “Once upon a time.” And that’s just what this story is all about: what happened, once upon a time.” It really is that simple.

Indulging my passion for reading whilst learning about a new person, place or event seems to me to be an incredibly worthwhile pastime. I used to read about what happened to the Tudors, once upon a time; what happened to Anne Frank, once upon a time; what people wore in

the Victorian period, once upon a time.

Non-fiction sparks lifelong interest, proffers the seeds of new investigative pathways and encourages the development of knowledge in readers of all ages, and the authors who are worth their salt do so without neglecting the need for a narrative.

Guy Deutscher’s book, The Unfolding of Language, tries to lay bare the processes that have developed the languages we now use, charting the forces of creation and destruction that have operated throughout history. Although he cannot answer how language first began, and acknowledges that it is more than likely no one ever will, Deutscher provides an indication of how the English we all use today has come into existence and how it could change in the future.

The Unfolding of Language is a book that will prove difficult to read all at once: the many examples and the different rules that have moulded language throughout the ages are interesting, but can become overwhelming.

While connected, Deutscher’s chapters can be read one at a time, and contain fascinating facts about language and how it might be changing at this very moment. The reason for English’s many irregularities (why “saw,” instead of “seed,” why ‘made” instead of “maked”) become comprehensible,

Arabic’s decision to do away with the letter “p” is explained and the changes happening in language at this very moment drawn to our attention.

“Non-fiction encourages the development of knowledge in readers of all ages” One of the main reasons I, like most other fiction readers, adore the imaginative plots and characters of literary texts is because they transport us into unknown worlds and enrobe us with their tales of mystery, adventure and emotion. Readers of non-fiction should also be able to

“When you stop and think about it, language really is a pretty unbelievable thing” The content of The Unfolding of Language is interesting, but Deutscher’s real achievement is to make what would otherwise be very dry material – verbs, nouns, and the like – readable. Deutscher avoids becoming overly technical, writing accessibly and anecdotally in an engaging style that draws on a huge array of stories, texts and real life experiences. Deutscher’s cogent work will provide a real insight into something we all use everyday, but know very little about.

Nicholas armstrong

At Point Blanc range Rebecca Lodder listens to Anthony Horowitz at the London Book Fair THIS year’s London Book Fair, held at Earl’s Court, was host to a plethora of world-renowned publishers, speakers and authors sharing their views on the publishing industry. One such household name was Anthony Horowitz, children’s author and screenwriter, famous for his beloved Alex Rider series. In the intimate setting of the English Pen Literary Café, Lindsay Mackie interviewed Horowitz

on a wide range of topics, most unusually perhaps the work he does in young offenders’ institutes. He stated that “in a very dark tunnel, there is a spark of life” and that many of those he visits have a huge amount of creative talent. His connection with young offenders stems from his own difficult childhood where he was beaten whilst at boarding school.

This traumatic experience helped him to realise that the “one place [he] had ever felt comfortable was the library.”

Anthony Horowitz was relatively unknown for the first twenty to thirty years of his writing career. He made the transition from novel to screen writing with his work on the film Stormbreaker starring Alex Pettyfer, and it is this he attributes to his lack of public success. Though he was less than complimentary of how the film eventually turned out, he accepts that its release helped cement his position as an eminent author within the teen genre. He said that “in the course of getting known I was able to experiment… a lack of success allowed me to spread

my wings into other things.” He also commented on how the technological age has changed the way he composes works. He believes that “to write for young people now you have to be very visual because there are so many images for children today. Stormbreaker was always a book for a film before it was a film for a film”.

When the idea of printed works becoming secondary to digital came up, he had nothing but praise for using new technology. He said “I love Twitter and my books are available as eBooks at Guardian Horowitz eBooks. Digital publishing is an opportunity but I don’t believe the book is finished.”

Despite this, Horowitz confirmed that he still writes everything in longhand before he types it up, as he likes “to think that the blood that flows between writers from the 15th century to us today is ink.” Horowitz writes fulltime and has written a brand new Alex Rider short story exclusively for the World Book Day 2012 app, launched on iTunes.

identify these properties in their reading material, because facts woven into a gripping tale unite to produce a page-turner. Great works of non-fiction graduate from the “you couldn’t make it up” school of real life, where the most stunning, indeed, unimaginable, events occur.

So what did I choose?

Another Gombrich, of course: The Story of Art. And yes, it’s captured my imagination and brought me back to facts in ways, even I, a lifelong lover of nonfiction, hadn’t thought possible.

Mr Norris Changes Trains Christopher Isherwood Vintage Classics ISBN: 0099771411 CHRISTOPHER ISHERWOOD’S 1935 novel Mr Norris Changes Trains offers a unique view of the decadence and dangers of Weimar era Berlin, through the characterisation of the enigmatic Arthur Norris.

Based on Isherwood’s experiences as an expatriate living in Berlin in the 1930’s, the novel encompasses the rising political tensions, and the culture of decadence that became so prevalent in Berlin during the Weimar period. The novel, like its protagonist Arthur Norris, is charming and refined, although in hindsight, its politeness fails to recognise the gravity of the unfolding political scene in Berlin, an issue that led to Isherwood’s later disillusionment with the novel.

The real strength of the work lies in the eponymous Norris, who is that character in literature that, try as we might, we cannot get angry at, despite their many flaws. He is the mysteriously charming rotter. Imagine, if you like, Jay Gatsby in a wig and

with a penchant for being whipped.

The sense of intrigue in the novel is also delightful. Bradshaw flits between an array of dazzling characters, including a homosexual Baron, the leader of the local Communist party, and a gossiping landlady, each of whom is manipulated by Norris’s “verbal card-playing.” However, as the secrets and dealings pile onto one another, and Nazism rears its ugly head, time runs out for Norris, and he is forced to abandon his life of debauchery.

The novel ends brilliantly, as Isherwood treats Norris with the irony and humour that he deserves. The final line “What have I done to deserve all this?”

“Imagine, if you like, Jay Gatsby in a wig and with a penchant for being whipped” encapsulates the blissful self-ignorance that Norris has displayed throughout.

Despite his mistakes and oddities, once you have encountered Arthur Norris, it’s hard not to be won over.

ben winsor

Any Last Words?

We asked: what book couldn’t you finish, and why?

THOMAS LING: I never finished a book set in WW1 called Her Privates We by Frederic Manning. Made it 200 pages in and absolutely nothing had happened. It’s so boring I hope they die at the end to liven it up a bit.

ing the 1800s. It just consists of slave abuse, racism, sex and rape. I thought reading something so antiquated would be a novelty, but it was just... awful.

Tori Brazier: There has only ever been one: Pulling Princes (The Calypso Chronicles). I read it as a favour for my mum’s library when I was about 12. Never again.

Emily Tanner: I have just given up on F. Scott Fitzgerald’s Tender is the Night, because it’s nowhere near as good as The Great Gatsby...and I have no idea what’s going on in the extended passages of untranslated French.

Luke Graham: Dragonards Blood.

It’s from a series written in the seventies, set on a cotton plantation dur-

Owen Keating: Shamefully, I never finished Great Expectations - I just got far too frustrated with Pip.

28

8 May 2012 |

ARTS

Arts

FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @ExeposeArts

Exeposé

ARTS EDITORS

Clara Plackett & Emily Tanner arts@exepose.com JOIN THE FACEBOOK GROUP Exeposé Arts

Tune in to a new frequency...

Arts Diary Art Ten Drawings by Leonardo da Vinci @ Bristol Museum and Art Gallery: until 10 June

Comedy Simply the Jest @ Bikeshed: 9 May and 30 May

Arts Editors, Clara Plackett and Emily Tanner reinvigorate the radio with a run down of the best waves MOST commonly used to churn out news updates and supply music to listeners who want to pass the time, the great range of Arts on the radio is being overlooked. Radio 4 has aired some brilliant dramas recently, and they deserve praise. The Woman’s Hour Drama Possession (Wertenbaker’s dramatization of Byatt’s novel) is a hilarious, quick-witted romance which was very well received, and other topical dramas such as Beyond Borders, Mike Walker’s play about the coming together of the EU and Britain’s hesitancy, are definitely well worth a listen.

To ignore Radio 3’s Arts and Drama broadcasts would also be a great shame. There are plenty more enter-

taining and engaging dramas going on and the Drama of the Week section on Radio 3 ensures that a great new drama from Radio 4 or Radio 3 is broadcast frequently. If you’re interested in Shakespeare listen to Radio 3 at the moment, as well as 4 and 4 Extra, as they are celebrating Shakespeare’s works as part of the BBC’s contribution to the Cultural Olympiad and London 2012 Festival.

If you really want to branch out, you should also consider giving Radio 3’s programme Adventures in Poetry just half an hour of your time. In series 12 Peggy Reynolds has already been discussing texts such as Poe’s gothic poem, The Raven with interesting Photo: Josh Irwandi

Drama

Blitz Project @ Bikeshed : 1-19 May

Radio Afternoon Drama on Radio 4: Daily, 14.15 News Quiz on Radio 4: Saturdays, 12.30

BBC Radio 4 14 April 2012

SIMON BOVEY’S Mountain of Light describes an audacious attempt to steal the Ko-i-nor Diamond from the 1851 Great Exhibition. John Rayverne, expert lock pick and burglar, is pressed into service by George Galloway, Governor of the Bank of England, and persuaded through a mixture of threats and rewards to acquire the world’s largest diamond.

Bovey’s plot seems far-fetched, and much of the action is. John Rayverne has little to recommend himself as the man for such a grand job beside a recent spate of house burglaries that have brought him to the attention of the authorities. Why George Galloway is will-

“It’s easy to recognise true value in an art form which can deliver itself effectively through radio and through one single voice” Radio is also great place to hear some of the most current, experimental and cutting edge comedy. Whilst TV offers a variety of panel and sketch shows radio still presents the most extensive range of comedy away from the live circuit. Many popular shows, such as Little Britain and That Mitchell and Webb Sound, made famous after their progression to television began life on the radio and there are plenty more notso-hidden, gems out there just waiting to be heard.

If it’s topical panel shows you’re a fan of then Radio 4 offers a great mix from The News Quiz - a satirical take on the week’s news with a variety of guests joining host Sandi Toksvig –

Hound of the Baskervilles @ Northcott : 8 - 12 May

Mountain of Light

guests who acknowledge the controversy around the poem and the poet and discuss The Raven’s great influence on other artists. Fanthorpe’s lovable poem Dear Mr Lee has also been discussed, with students’ thoughts on the poem helping it to become even more accessible. It’s easy to recognise true value in an art form which can deliver itself effectively through radio, and through one single voice, as other mediums can glorify and taint things much more simply.

ing to risk both his career and freedom on such a man is a question that has no plausible answer; why the Governor of the Bank of England is contemplating such a scheme at all even less so.

Too often Bovey relies on clichéd character types that lack depth and shade into stereotype: Rilke, the cockney bruiser who inexplicably favours the third-person; the different voices are all that distinguish the numerous policemen from one another; and John’s incarcerated father and former partner appears an added afterthought, present only as an excuse for John to cite when he, very originally, declares, “I work alone.”

Bovey’s story, for all its shortcomings, does have excitement to it.

The episode, which only lasts an hour, must move quickly and it is easy to get caught up in the intricacies of the actual theft. The greatest merit of Bovey’s

drama, however, comes from the historical detail. The 1851 Great Exhibition has been meticulously researched and plenty of small details about the content of the show add authenticity and a greater reality to the setting. By itemising the contents of the Exhibition, Bovey is able to conjure a very strong visual impression of Victorian Britain and the excitement that accompanied the Exhibition.

Limited to a great degree by the confines of the script Carl Prekopp and Lizzy Watts do well in the roles of John and Emily, glossing over the many blemishes that mar the plot, acting convincingly the roles they are given. Although this is far from being the best of dramas, for those who enjoy period settings this piece has some redeeming features to recommend it.

NICHOLAS ARMSTRONG

to The Now Show, a wonderful piece of Saturday afternoon entertainment fronted by comedic heavyweights Punt and Dennis. Both shows are recorded in front of a live audience, so the atmosphere is barely diluted as the show comes through your speakers, and have been running for over 30 and 10 years respectively so have well established reputations.

As for the more alternative talents of the comedy world, radio again offers a place for this. Quirky stand-up, Milton Jones (known for his one liners, mad hair and loud shirts) has recently been given a show on Radio 4, Another Case of Milton Jones, which is half stand up, half comedic radio play but nonetheless hilarious. The pilot episode involved the performer tackling the task of piloting a plane and included choice mishaps at a meat factory and on a desert island.

Though to so many radio is simply for the music, something to fill the silence whilst getting ready, eating or driving, there is so much more to be heard. From an extensive range of drama and satirical comedy in the day time to alternative late night treats there is something out there to make you laugh, cry or just think about something differently. So next time you think of turning on your TV set or flicking through the iPlayer to pass the time, stick on the radio and open your ears to something different.

Exeposé

| Week twenty-five

ARTS 29

Art Attack

Tate Modern 4 April – 9 September 2012

This week’s Art Attack is Psalm 27 by Damien Hirst.

How do you feel about the use of butterflies in this piece? Hirst has a “religious belief in art”.

Can you derive any sense ALICE SCOBLE-REES: Hirst doesn’t succeed in doing anything with this, because he didn’t make it. Almost all of his work now is done entirely by assistants.

ALEX HAWKSWORTH-BROOKES:

Give me some butterfly wings or a tank of formaldehyde and I could make you a ‘Hirst’. Give me some paint and I couldn’t give you a van Eyck.

ZOE BULAITIS: Hirst is conceptual.

It doesn’t matter that he didn’t lift a finger to make it. I wouldn’t have been able to think up an image as striking as butterfly-stained glass window.

JESS LEUNG: I like it! Psalm 27 is one of the more aesthetic pieces in the Bible and I believe that butterflies, especially

using dead ones to create something beautiful, is the perfect symbol for this passage.

JON MINTER: Could Hirst be saying that beauty is only possible after death and destruction, that peace comes after blood has been split ... ?

EMILY LUNN: For me, Hirst

(and his work) only represent the commercialisation of art.

LAURA STEVENS: ... we’re against fur for fashion so why is this allowed?

GEORGE CONNOR: Some of the greatest works of literature...were bound in leather for aesthetics reasons, it doesn’t take away the power of the words contained within them.

IN the absence of sensation, the work of Damien Hirst now humbly asks for our opinion. For the last twenty five years, it seems only to have existed alongside columns of reverence or utter dismay. Now, for the first time, his most distinguished pieces form a retrospective; a timeline that lays out Hirst’s progression in a way that seems surprisingly honest.

Within the turbine hall of the Tate Modern, an isolated black box houses the famous £50m diamond encrusted skull.

It presents an image of Hirst as a figure of unparalleled artistic wealth and power.

This is the Hirst we know today. We are then taken back in time to see his student work which, despite being a necessary prologue, in contrast seems mundane.

Not until the second, much larger room are we confronted by his more renowned works, with a wall of intriguing dot paintings that are technically simplistic whilst visually complex.

An immense glass container, entitled A Thousand Years, dominates the central space. It is swarming with live houseflies that hatch in one half, then graduate to the other. Here they feed on the severed head of a cow and then collide with an electriPhoto: Royal Academy of Arts

David Hockney: A Bigger Picture

“The repetition of images such as the Tunnel with their beautiful, unreal and vibrant colours, are anchored by the insistence of Hockney” The early works from the unforgiving LA landscape portray key motifs that remain throughout Hockey’s work. The desperation to portray not merely a snapshot of the land, but a viewpoint of all angles, is clearly seen in A Bigger Grand Canyon (1998) where the blurring of perspectives allows an “unphotographic space” to be portrayed. The exploration this enables is also depicted through the prevalence of the image of a road which allows a spectator to travel through the

fied mesh, immediately ending their brief life. It is an exquisite piece, as sadistic as it is humane in its depiction of birth, life and death, and representative of a theme that transcends the chronology of Hirst’s creations.

The shark in formaldehyde, or The Physical Impossibility of Death in the Mind of Someone Living, takes centre stage in the exhibition, and rightly so. The piece is impressive to view, yet its impact becomes even more profound after understanding the significance of its title.

Throughout the gallery, this interplay between what is presented and how it is labelled occasionally works, and when it does, Hirst provides us with some of the most iconic works in modern art. However, when the context becomes obscure and tenuous, Hirst oozes a pretentiousness that fuels his critics. There are many impressive works to be seen and admired,

Anne Boleyn Malvern Theatres 24 - 28 April 2012 (National Tour until 12 May)

Royal Academy of Arts 21 January - 9 April 2012 DAVID HOCKNEY, with his varied and colourful career both sides of the pond, seems to have finally been accepted by the establishment with his latest high profile exhibition at the esteemed RA. Yet it is not a retrospective, in fact, the majority of the exhibition has been created over the last four years. This output, coinciding with his return to his Yorkshire roots generates some startlingly beautiful and vibrant nature pieces, rejuvenating the genre of landscape painting through its incorporation of modern technology.

Photo: Prudence Cuming Associates

Damien Hirst Exhibition

picture as the purple highway guides the eye.

The return to Yorkshire showcases the belief that one painting is never enough to convey a natural scene faithfully. The repetition of images such as the Tunnel with their beautiful, unreal and vibrant colours, are anchored by the insistence of Hockney on the same viewpoint. This stability anchors the sequences in fantastical pieces such A Closer Winter Tunnel, February to March with its pink furrowed fields.

The immense The Arrival of Spring in Woldgate epitomises Hockney’s close attention to detail, alongside the vibrancy a forest in Spring produces. Surrounding this, the paper drawings from the iPad indicate the immediacy and intimacy of observing nature as these sketches in their brevity depict not only the vast changes of season to season, but also the minute differences from day to day.

This use of technology is continued through the hyper real depiction of Woldgate woods through 18 different high definition camera lenses. Whilst this did display a rounded view of the woods, the loss of Hockney’s imposed dramatic colours is keenly felt.

“The latest software gives a new life to the art form” The exhibition, by a living British artist, acutely demonstrates that landscape painting is still a genre which is capable of innovation. The use of fantastical colours, panelling and the latest software give a new life to an art form once seen as impossible to further experiment with.

LAURA STEVENS

HOWARD BRENTON’S Anne Boleyn confounded my expectations in the best possible way. This national tour, a collaboration between English Touring Theatre and Shakespeare’s Globe, follows a highly-successful two-season run of the play at the Globe, and a Theatregoers Choice Award for Best New Play in 2011. Brenton re-examines Anne’s role as both Protestant and mistress to the king, placed at the heart of the clashing Tudor court and in the midst of the religious storm surrounding Henry VIII’s first divorce. We see the effects of actions then echo over more than seventy years to James I, ascending the English throne in 1603 and haunted by Anne’s ghost as he struggles with England’s continuing religious tension.

Despite the heaviness of such subject material, the play was witty, entertaining and frequently laugh-out-loud funny.

The production began with gusto and the cast leaping into the audience to engage us in conversation. Before I could get too panicked about potential pantomime scenarios however, they were back on stage, having created a ‘courtly’ atmosphere, and singing cheery Renaissance tunes, accompanied by four excellent musicians, who supplied appropriate mood music throughout the performance. The set itself was visually striking, with imposing white marble columns and a red velvet curtain providing the backdrop of

yet one is left wondering if some of the pieces may have been wrongly caught up in the hysteria.

“His most distinguished pieces form a retrospective; a timeline that lays out Hirst’s progression in a way that seems suprisingly honest” It is difficult to judge an entire career without marvelling at the achievements.

Valued at £215m, Damien Hirst has little else to prove, and this exhibition signifies the closing of a chapter where his work has become synonymous with British modern art.

JOE HEWITT a royal chamber. Blinding white stage lighting also gave a somewhat contemporary feel, despite the period costumes, and kept things simple.

The entire cast of nineteen gave committed performances across the two and a half hours, most of them playing multiple roles, and Jo Herbert as Anne Boleyn came across as appealing and engaging in a relatively ‘straight’ role, carrying the majority of the play. The stand-out was James Garnon however, reprising his role as James I. With impressive physicality he showed the monarch’s alleged tics and spasms, overly-large tongue, and possible Tourette syndrome to hilarious effect but without ever caricaturing him, in a brilliantly written part. When he disappeared for a significant portion of the first act, I could feel the audience anticipating his next entrance.

“James Garnon performed the role of James I with impressive physicality” Despite being a little too long, and requiring reasonable background knowledge in order to keep track of the multitude of historical figures, Anne Boleyn is a refreshingly candid, modern and slightly unexpected take on a traditional subject, thought-provoking as well as the funniest thing I have seen in a good while.

TORI BRAZIER

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31

8 May 2012 |

GAMES

Games FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @ExeposeVG

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GAMES EDITORS

Marcus Beard & Jonathan Jenner games@exepose.com JOIN THE FACEBOOK GROUP Exeposé Games

Riding the indie waves

Marcus Beard, Games Editor, talks to Ryan Vandendyck of Eden Industries about indie development RYAN VANDENDYCK has previously worked on Ghost Recon, Mario and Punch-Out titles for Next Level games and Silicon Nights, whilst developing his own projects in his free time (something he refers to as “double developing”). Since the new year, he now works full time as CEO of his indie start-up studio, Eden Industries, recently releasing the critically acclaimed sinusoidal side-scroller Waveform.

“The freedom you get when working independently is fantastic” Who are Eden Industries?

“I’m currently the only member of the team working full time. The rest of

Play this: Give up Robot WHAT IS IT? Psychedelic platformer with a funky soundtrack requiring devilish precision. You’re a robot equipped with a grappling hook, making your way through brightly coloured platforming challenges, all whilst being discouraged by your robot overlord.

It’s Super Meat Boy meets Bionic Commando on acid. Be sure to check out the sequel.

WHERE DO I GET IT? FREE browser game at games.adultswim.com

the team contribute where they can, at weekends and between other jobs.

When you work as a ‘double developer’ there are some tricky relationships you have to work with your employer.”

How is working independently different to working for a major company?

“The freedom you get when working independently is fantastic – I get to make what I want to make. But when you work for a big company, you’ve got a budget.”

Did that limit you at all when creating Waveform?

“Creating Waveform was tough as we couldn’t hire an artist for the whole duration of the project. Not having a budget to hire the right people for the jobs, or to market the game, is chal-

Waveform Eden Industries PC Out Now AS a mainstream gamer I sometimes find it difficult to appreciate the lesser known category of indie games. Yet even I found Waveform, the new concept game from Eden Industries, extremely entertaining.

The basis of the game is simple; an evil force is threatening the safety of the galaxy, and it is your job to stop it. However, the gameplay is somewhat different to what you would expect.

“The game gives you control over a wave of light” The game gives you control over a wave of light, the last left in the galaxy.

lenging. We’re a small fish in a huge, huge pond.”

Being so small, do you find it easier to connect to your audience?

“Certainly. In a big company, it’s all ‘we have to have a meeting about this’ and ‘we have to clear it with the publisher’. But if I think something sounds cool, I’m just going to do it.”

How is working on PC different to working on consoles?

“It’s harder; there are so many different hardware configurations, whereas consoles are just one universal platform.”

Speaking of which, do you have plans to bring Waveform to a console?

“A lot of the console guys have talked to me about porting it to their digital

With the ability to adapt your amplitude and wavelength you must collect and utilise as many particles as possible to combat the forces of evil. The game takes place in deep space, moving nearer to Earth as you progress. Collecting the particles of light is achieved through careful use of the mouse, to adjust your wave and adapt as you grow larger and speed up throughout the level. It becomes quickly obvious that there is a set path to achieve 100% completion, and actually finding that path is extremely rewarding... particularly as it will take you a long time to find it!

Like all great games the concept takes a minute to grasp, but a long time to master, and with a satisfying difficulty curve you won’t be disappointed by the content. With over 70 levels to complete and more than 15 utilisable objects the scope of Waveform is massive. Not only this but as you progress throughout the game new modes and special levels be-

distribution marketplaces. But you’ve got to jump through a lot of hoops.

It’s something I’m interested in, but as we will always be the indie dev with a bunch of different contributors, there’s always going to be a gap between who we are and what they expect.”

“If companies like EA were genuinely interested in making people happy, I think there wouldn’t be such an outcry against them”

way big companies treat their customers. It’s all ‘we’ll pay money to hype up a game’, and then when consumers don’t like it they say ‘tough luck, already made a sale’. It’s things like day one DLC that shows people aren’t making decisions about what’s best for the game and for the consumers, just what’s best for business. I understand they want to make money – so do I, but I also want to make my customers happy. If companies like EA were genuinely interested in making people happy, I think there wouldn’t be such an outcry against them, and big publishers and indie devs could co-exist.”

Finally, there’s been a lot of criticism levelled at major publishers recently; do you think indie developers and big publishers can co-exist?

“I think they can. Part of the issue is the

Waveform is available now on Steam for £5. Eden Industries are currently working on an unannounced RPG.

come available to challenge what you thought were honed skills. In fact, the only negative in the game is that the difficulty may be a little off-putting for some, especially those who don’t have much patience.

Win a copy of Waveform!

“As you progress throughout the game, special levels become available to challenge what you thought were honed skills” The slick gameplay and entertaining soundtrack add a whole new light (pardon the pun) to the indie game category, and for only £5 you could just grab yourself a bargain.

We have three copies of Waveform to give away, saving you a whole fiver on Steam! Everyone’s obsessed with DrawSomething and Exeposé Games are no exception... the three funniest captions for our picture win! Find the picture on Facebook or Twitter, and either...

Comment on our Facebook Group Tweet us @ExeposéVG Email us at games@exepose.com The funniest caption in each category will win a copy of the game.

Good luck!

Adam Brunt

Exeposé

| Week twenty-five

GAMES

“Philip? Fetch the Wii!”

Kate Gray submits one’s guesses for Her Majesty the Queen’s favourite games LET’S just start off by saying that Queen Elizabeth, 60-time winner of British Queen of the Year, is BAD ASS. This is a woman who’s survived fire, bombs, eggs, scandals, multiple wars, and she’s even managed to put up with Prince Charles for 63 years.

She’s dealt with more crap than Master Chief, she’d defeat Bowser with a sternly worded speech, and let’s be honest, she rocks fashion so hard for a woman of her age that she’d put the catsuit-wearing cosplay mob to shame.

And so, let us speculate wildly on how the Queen uses videogames as an outlet for her bad-assery!

1. SKYRIM 60 years of uninterrupted Queen (be extra thankful it’s the monarch, not the band; after the 300th

play of ‘I Want To Break Free’ you’d probably want to suck your brain out through your ears with a vacuum).

Chances are, she’ll probably be sticking around for a few more. Skyrim, with its longevity and immensity, would be a longer-lasting source of entertainment than the corgis she undoubtedly goes through like Prime Ministers.

2. MINECRAFT DO YOU LIKE MY CROWN CROWN CROWN MY DIAMOND CROWN CROWN… All nerdy jokes aside, if the Queen can make a Diamond Jubilee out of simply being alive for 60 years then she’d be a boss at this game.

3. POKEMON Being Level 86 herself, Queen Liz would probably prefer to be in the company

of a Blastoise whose Hydro Cannon ranks 20 on the Tsunami Scale, rather than the real-world 86-year-olds, who are much more likely to stand at bus stops smelling of pee and talcum powder having lost themselves in the confusion.

4. SUPER SMASH BROS No better way to beat family rivalry than a relaxing game of Smash Bros, right? Perhaps this could be used in future to decide succession. I know I’d be behind them.

5. LONDON UNDERGROUND SIMULATOR The Queen goes undercover to mingle with the plebs. Wait… more than 54km of tracks? True to original driving noises? REALISTIC AI TRAFFIC?! Who in their right mind doesn’t want this game?

... And here are some suggestions that one would not touch with the Royal Jubilee Barge-pole: CUT THE ROPE I think she’s probably had enough of cutting ropes, and she’s probably had enough of trying to please spoilt, selfentitled little creatures, too…

CIVILISATION Losing the colonies was tough; she won’t want to relive it, especially not to a 14-year old American boy pretending to be Genghis Khan. The humiliation.

SUPER MARIO BROS “The Prince is in another castle? … keep him.”

32

What game will be the death of your degree?

Look out for our regular Question for the Column on our Facebook group and Twitter account!

LOUIS DORÉ: “Football Manager 2012, getting Aldershot to the Champions League is worryingly my greatest achievement...”

DAVE FIANDER STONE: “Team Fortress 2, because a twenty minute break turns into three hours of not letting that other guy think he’s a better sniper than you.”

ALEX PHELPS: “Any Total War game because it still sort of counts as a history degree.”

JESS LEUNG: “Bejeweled Blitz - I am literally seeing falling gems everywhere...”

KATE GRAY: “Super Scribblenauts because GIANT PINK DINOSAUR.” HUGH BLACKSTAFFE: “Red Dead Redemption Undead Nightmare... because I CANNOT FIND THAT SODDING CHUPACARBA AND I WILL NOT REST UNTIL I DO and finally shoot it in the face...”

The Witcher 2: Enhanced Edition CD Projekt RED PC/Xbox 360 Out Now THE Witcher series has become a popular franchise on the PC and at last is finally making its debut on Xbox 360 with The Witcher 2: Enhanced Edition. Interestingly, it was developed by a small Polish company called CD Projekt RED and it is a living testament to how smaller developers can make a fool of the big giants such as EA and Activision.

“You can’t go rushing in like Conan on shark testosterone; instead, you have to manage drinking potions and laying traps” The beauty of The Witcher lies in its story and the world it is based in. The storyline is very mature, and not just in a sense of sex and violence (though there is plenty of it), it is a genuinely adult tale of political intrigue, complex characters and very deep emotional journeys reminiscent of Game of Thrones.

The actual look of the game is very impressive. The variety of different landscapes creates an interesting vari-

ety of environments and locations that work alongside the story to really get you immersed in the world. One thing the Witcher does get right that many other fantasy RPGs do not is scale.They manage to create a world that is both massive and deep without falling into the traps some games fall into when trying to portray epic battles such as Skyrim.

In terms of gameplay The Witcher feels very much like a standard RPG. The sword play is fun enough with the basic heavy and light attacks which can be used in combination. The spells are varied with enough to make you feel like a decent magician but what makes the Witcher combat unique is the tactics behind it. You can’t go rushing in like Conan on shark testosterone, instead you have to manage drinking potions and laying traps, especially for the larger boss battles.My first encounter with a kraken left my head and my elbow several miles apart from each other.

Overall the Witcher has made a seamless transition to Xbox 360, exciting RPG fans across the console. It has a fantastic and engaging story which is its strong point. If you want to lose your boring regular life and jump into what is a great fantasy epic with an adult twist then grab your swords and your wenches and get the Witcher!

Alex Phelps

Trials Evolution RedLynx XBLA Out Now IN a nutshell, Trials Evolution is a motorbike racing/stunt game with over-thetop physics and a wacky aesthetic. The aim is to finish a series of tracks in as quick a time as possible, whilst keeping mistakes to a minimum. The result is a manic, fiercely competitive experience that can easily eat up entire afternoons.

The constant desire to have just one more go in order to get that extra medal or shave just a few seconds off your previous score makes it almost impossible to put the controller down, especially when friends are posting better times than you.

“Trials Evolution is very much like a motocross inspired Dark Souls: addictively, joyously difficult” It’s obvious that a lot of work went into designing the levels, as every single one is unique and looks great, with only occasional texture pop-up taking the edge off things. Scenery ranges from experimental labs to haunted forests to titan-inhabited castles, with a few nods to other Arcade hits such as Splosion

Man and Limbo thrown in for good measure. Explosions and collapsing buildings bring the levels to life, and interactive scenery on later levels makes sure that gameplay stays fresh. A punk heavy soundtrack matches the game’s fast pace, and compliments its cartoony style.

Although the earlier levels are pretty easy, especially once you’ve taken the time to get used to the sensitive controls, the later levels are much, much harder. In fact, it wouldn’t be an exaggeration to say that they are sadistically difficult, with some challenges taking hundreds of attempts, before recognition of your total lack of ability sets in and you dejectedly turn off the console. In this respect, Trials is very much like a motocross inspired Dark Souls: addictively, joyously, difficult. Only on very rare occasions did I ever feel like I was being unfairly punished (it was especially frustrating whenever my bike got jammed on obstacles, with no way of gaining freedom without

taking a penalty).

However, don’t let the high difficulty put you off – the learning curve is gradual, and there is plenty to do in the earlier stages of the game for players who lack the superhuman ability to perform perfect runs on the later levels. With challenge modes, tournaments, local and online multiplayer, plus the ability to design and race on your own tracks, Trials has an incredible amount of content, and is sure to please completionists. Customisation options add another level of depth, although I was disappointed with the fact that all the options were unanimously uninspired – with all the imaginative locations and challenges it would have been really nice for this to have been reflected in the styling choices.

In almost every way, Trials Evolution goes beyond the achievements of its predecessor to deliver a vibrant, addictive and challenging experience. Give me a Masterchief costume for my rider and it wouldn’t be far off perfect.

Alex HAwksworth-Brookes

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34

8 May 2012 |

SPORT

From the Editor...

Mike Stanton, Sports Editor, laments the growing influence of politics in sport

SPORT. Throughout history the essence of sport has been the one common ground for people of all ages, genders and creeds in a world ripped apart by conflict and prejudice. Just look at the ‘Christmas Truce’ of 1915 where men, British and German, climbed out of their trenches, laid down their weapons and through the medium of sport found peace in the middle of one of the worst conflicts the world has ever seen.

However, in our modern, politicised and professional era this essence seems to have been lost. The 1936 Berlin Olympic Games, the 2003 Cricket World Cup, and more recently the Formula One in Bahrain are all evidence of an increasingly politicised sporting world. Before I begin I would like to say I am not calling for an end to politics in sport, far from it, there is a need for its presence. However, in my opinion this presence has become far too great and now threatens to cast a grim shadow or even destroy completely some of the greatest sporting occasions.

There has been evidence that an increasingly politicised sporting agenda can do good. For example the 1995 Rugby World Cup where the hosts South Africa, beginning to overcome harsh political tyranny and issues of race, won the tournament and united a nation.

However, inspirational scenes, such as the new President, Nelson Mandela, handing Francois Pienaar the Webb Ellis Trophy, a visual representation of the end to racism in South Africa, are few and far between and the recent events in Bahrain are just one example. The sporting and political worlds, through money, advertising and political agendas, have resulted in these two separate entities almost becoming one, to the extent in F1 that the sport has become a governmental tool in a futile attempt to help a region on the brink find reform. This collision of the sporting and political worlds has found F1, a sport that has produced stars such as Ayrton Senna that have become role models for so many, in the middle of a row over human rights, religion, money and even international politics.

This tarnishes the reputation of the sport and even causes teams to withdraw.

This is not to say that this has been the first time politics has had catastrophic impacts on sport. It is, however, the final political nail in a rapidly decomposing coffin. It is time for politics to take a back seat, to step back and let the sporting world out from under its large and imposing shadow, to let people try and forget their differences and enjoy sport for what it is.

Too often has politics caused issues in areas where it is not needed, too often

so called ‘World Leaders’ have waded into arenas where they do not belong to spout empty promises and hollow words in attempts to solve issues and to keep their pockets lined. Too often have life defining moments been overshadowed by egotistical organisational heads and weak politicians more interested in keeping their wallets full than the potential of sport in an increasingly saddening world.

“It is time for politics to let the sporting world out from under its shadow” We have witnessed moments through sport that have had us laughing, crying, hugging and jumping for joy: Jonny’s drop goal, the Hand of God, Michael Phelps’s eight golds, Nadia Comaneci’s perfect ten, or more locally Richard Sinel’s try in the corner to clinch a varsity win for Exeter. Moments that stopped the world, moments that changed people’s lives or simply brightened up a day, moments that can all too easily be missed and pass us by completely, such is the fragile beauty of sport.

As the London 2012 Games approach, once more politics will descend onto sport. But I hope that at the greatest sporting event of them all politics will step back and let us, even if just for a moment, forget issues of race or religion, financial problems or war, and let us all wonder at the spectacle of sport and the momentary peace it can bring.

Photo: Josh Irwandi

Exeposé

One to watch...

Cricket Varsity v Southampton Solent

10/06/2012

EUMHC reflect on their performances at the highest stage Men’s HOCKEY

Adam Lax

BUMHC Publicity Officer FOLLOWING on from Exeter’s glorious BUCS triumph and the season ending victory over Loughborough Students in the England Hockey League Premier Division, Olly Deasy’s men headed into the Play-Offs over the Easter break full of hope, full of expectation, with pride to play for, and most importantly, with two berths in the top flight up for grabs.

The defeat of Loughborough in front of a 400 strong crowd at the Nando’s Sports Park concluded a run of three victories in Exeter’s final four matches of the seasons to haul them from the foot of the table.

With the second highest goal scorer in the Premier Division, and current England under-21 international Tom Carson leading the line, hopes were high, but the prize was greater.

Exeter began strongly against Manchester based Brooklands in the first of the three round robin matches, dominating possession during the first half but unable to find a way past a very strong defence. Brooklands gradually found a foothold in the match, securing a 1-0 lead in the early stages of the second half from a penalty corner, a goal against the run of play from which Exeter never truly recovered as the game drew to a close. Brooklands held firm, but with Canterbury’s victory over Team Bath Buccaneers ensuring all was not lost, the play-offs continued into a second weekend.

The Title of Best-of-the-SouthWest was never in doubt; Exeter provided a masterclass against Bath, scoring six without reply in a dominant

“Both sides were neck and neck throughout the first half”

display of ruthless finishing. James Royce opened the scoring in the opening four minutes, before Carson added a first half hat-trick to his already impressive tally for the campaign. The second half continued in a similar vein, with goals for both Gareth Davies and Brendon Noble completing the rout. Chris Rea held firm in the Exeter goal; the side only needed a point from their encounter with Canterbury in the final game to secure Premier Division hockey for another year.

“The team has been remarkable, competing at the highest level of hockey England has to offer” Both sides were neck and neck throughout the first half, with the defence of Joe Sterlini and Chris Barker putting in a sterling effort to counter Canterbury’s potent attacking threat.

With Trinidad and Tobago Olympian Kwan Browne running the game from midfield for the opposition, Exeter’s midfield shield in the form of Ben Upton and Will Collins held strong, and made way for an open, fast paced game of hockey, with so much at stake.

Canterbury, however, took the lead on the stroke of half time from a penalty corner, and as Exeter pressed higher up the pitch, Canterbury grabbed a further two in the final five minutes of the game to mark a deserved victory.

Over the course of the weekend, and the season as a whole, the effort and commitment from the team has been remarkable, competing at the highest level of hockey England has to offer, and coming so very close to defying belief with the incredible run of results that concluded with victory over Loughborough. The EUMHC Class of 2012 has finally signed out, but not without one almighty fight.

Preparations underway for EUMCC v Solent Varsity Men’s Cricket

Joe Barrs

EUMCC Captain The 2011 cricket season was not one to remember for Exeter’s 1st XI and big transformations were necessary over the winter months in order to have a more successful summer this year.

Fortunately the new academic year saw the arrival of three new cricket scholars in Matt Laidman, Zach Bess and Will Leith, all of whom have represented

Surrey and Somerset respectively at 2nd XI level. On top of this, a talented batch of other freshers has significantly changed the make up of the side, which is now captained by 2nd year Joe Barrs. The potential success of this new look side was realised during the winter with a strong indoor campaign, which saw Exeter reach the final, held at Lords in February. Unfortunately Barrs’s men narrowly lost to Cardiff, however after five months of winter preparation, they still had a lot of momentum going into the outdoor season.

Their season began with a host of

warm-up games against strong opposition such as Exeter CC, Devon and Cheltenham College, the majority of which saw the University come out on top. However, since those games over the Easter break, the weather has put a halt to what was lining up to be a promising season. The wet April we experienced has meant that only one of their first four BUCS games has been possible, and even that was affected by rain.

Reduced to twenty overs a side, Exeter were put into bat first by Leeds on a dreadful pitch. Batting on what would prove to be the worst of the

wicket, Exeter managed a solid 120 for 7, Andrew Curtis making 50 on his BUCS debut. Predictably the pitch had dried considerably when itcame to the Leeds innings and in the end their batsmen made a tough chase look easy, winning with overs to spare. Since then games versus Cardiff, Cambridge and Oxford have all been called off due to the rain. Joe Barrs and his team now must prove themselves in their remaining three games against Loughborough, Durham and the rescheduled varsity against Solent on 10 June at Exeter County Ground. Exeter have reason to

be confident ahead of this encounter; Southampton Solent were bowled out for just 75 aganist Oxford MCCU at the start of April and were well beaten

by Durham a couple of weeks later.

With so many BUCS games being called off throughout the country, if Exeter can find a couple of wins from these last three games then the playoffs are well within their reach. Hoping that the weather holds off let’s make sure we turn out in our numbers for the boys on 10 June, in the sun, supporting them in what will hopefully be a fantastic win over our southern rivals.

Exeposé

| Week twenty-five

SPORT

Cheerleaders succeed at Nationals

Photo: EUCG

Cheerleading

Joe Barrs

Crossword

35

No. 32 by Raucous

EUMCC Captain

THE cheerleading event of the season: after a long term of training, the Exeter Emeralds finally got to Telford, for the BCA University National Championships. Thursday saw the dance squads take to the stage for what was a day of strong competition.

First to perform were the jazz squad in their elegant gold dresses, followed by the small but strong Pom squad and finally Hip hop. Competing against 11 other university squads, the Emeralds did well to secure 1st in Pom and 4th in hip hop. The girls were disappointed to have only achieved 5th in jazz, after the beautiful dance had reduced another squad to tears, but were extremely happy with the title Pom University National Champions.

Friday saw the Cheerleading squads perform their routines for a new panel

of judges. Despite having lost a team member to a severely twisted ankle just days before the competition, the choreography was slick and stunting went almost without a hitch.

The judges appreciated the hard work put in by Cheer Captain Robyn

Harrison and her committee over the past year and awarded them 2nd place in the Level 3 and 4 categories, the highest placing Level 3 team at the competition, securing them the title National Champions for Level 3.

EUPC starts the season at a gallop Lucy Gibson

Polo

EUMCC Captain

EUPC have recorded an incredible season so far with eight wins, one draw and one loss in their varsity matches ranging across the ability spectrum from ‘beginner’ to ‘open’.

In addition to this, November saw the open team win their section at a university tournament up in Edinburgh, Alice Etchells, Club President, was awarded MVP, and the top team in the university league at Druids Lodge Polo narrowly lost in the final against RAC. Further success later at the SUPA winter nationals, held in freezing temperatures as low as -10 up at Rugby Polo Club. Five teams were entered over the beginner, novice and open sections; the open team consisting of Alice Etchells, Cameron Houston and Harold Hodges won their section, meaning that Exeter were now classed as the best polo team in the country; Hodges also won MVP. Alice Etchells commented, “both beginner and novice sections did extremely well, especially as for many of the players it was their first ever polo tournament”.

Following the results of nationals, Etchells and Hodges were selected to form two thirds of the winning England team taking part in a trinations university tournament in Dublin.

The penultimate week of last term saw Exeter take part in a varsity against Plymouth where the beginner team had a close 4-4 draw and the novices a resounding 9-6 victory.

Second year beginner Olivia Bodle summed up, “[we were] pleased to draw against Plymouth especially with our best player bumped up to play in the novice, I can’t wait for summer nationals!”.

Now the focus turns towards the large Cambridge and RAC summer varsities and the SUPA summer nationals in June.

Photo: EUPC/Lucy Gibson

Across 1. The best football manager England never had? (5, 6) 6. & 8. Across. John Nash, Jack Aubrey, Maximus Decimus Meridius (7, 5) 8. See 6. Across.

10. Ecclesiastical corruption (6) 11. Thanks for the military reserves (2) 13. Search for the Secretary for Culture (4) 15. I’m wild about the film award (5) 16. Paddington Bear’s native capital (4) 17. Casualty... I think (2) 19. Optical organ cover (6) 20. 6 Across. comedian made his mark (5) 21. Government ban (7) 23. Deliberative assembly gave Martin

Luther indigestion? (4,2,5) Down 1. Windsor Castle location (9) 2. Stay up all night to watch Christopher Nolan film (8) 3. Indicates maiden name (3) 4. Full of pathological micro-organisms (5) 5. Elite police force hits hard (4) 7. Heineken Cup winners (8) 9. Sunny building (8) 12. Samuel Taylor Coleridge’s favourite golf score? (9) 14. A lingering flâneur (8) 18. Steak is cooked like this infrequently (4) 19. Tedium (5) 22. Physical act of recognition (3)

60 seconds with...

Mike Stanton and Will Kelleher, Sports Editors Will

Mike

Favourite sport?

Favourite sport?

To play: Cricket or Rugby Union To watch: Football or Cricket

Best sporting memory?

Liverpool winning the 2005 champions League final being 3-0 down at half tim

Most embarrassing sporting moment?

Not necessarily sporting but I once ripped my thumb rucking on the Jonah Lomu Rugby challenge…

Sporting claim to fame.

I used to walk home with Ugo Monye from Harlequins, aged twelve.

Favourite stadium?

Rugby Union

Best sporting memory?

Wilkinson’s Drop Goal 2003 or Saracens winning the premiership last season

Most embarrassing sporting moment?

Made a line-break vs Devon U20s, sold the full back with huge step...

Unfortunately tripped myself up in the process and ended up in a heap on the ground, two metres short

Sporting claim to fame.

I was in Richard Hill’s autobiography (p 221)

Lord’s, Newlands, The SCG or The Twickenham Stoop

Favourite stadium?

Childhood sporting hero?

Childhood sporting hero?

Andrew Flintoff or Steven Gerrard

Vicarage road Dan luger

36

TUESDAY 8 May 2012 |

SPORT

Sport

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Exeposé

SPORT EDITORS

Will Kelleher & Mike Stanton sport@exepose.com JOIN THE FACEBOOK GROUP Exeposé Sport

Exeter sails to a BUCS victory Photo: EUSC

Tom Hunt : new Olympic Lifeguard

Lifeguarding

Will Kelleher Sports Editor

Yatching

Matt Rainback & Hannah Diamond Team Members EXETER University Sailing Club have won the 2012 BUCS Yachting National Championships, held in Portsmouth from 2-5 April.

By winning this major event, they have qualified to represent British Universities at the World University Yachting Championships, which is held in France in October 2012 and picked up 50 BUCS points for the university.

The Exeter team travelled down two days early to get in some last minute training in the 40ft Sunsail boats that were to be used for the events.

The team comprised of 8 people helmed by Matt Rainback, with the crew of Hannah Diamond (tactics), James Anderson (main), Ollie Kemp (trim 1), Alice Butler (trim 2), Suzy Russell (pit), Steve Gibson (Mast), and Toby Collinson (Bow).

The weekend was spent getting familiar with the boats and making any changes to make sure the team were completely ready for racing to start.

Exeter knew that there were a lot of experienced teams, namely Portsmouth, Plymouth and Southampton Solent, but were confident as everyone on the team was familiar with either keelboats or dinghies, having trained and raced with them on weekends.

The practise race could not have gone any better for Exeter, leading from start to finish, however, they were conscious of a sailing superstition, that it is bad luck to win the practise race, and so decided to sail past the finish line instead of passing through it.

“Conditions were tricky with light winds and strong tides.

Exeter were happy to come away with a win in the first race” Conditions were tricky with light winds and strong tides so Exeter’s yachters were happy to come away with a win in the first race.

Unfortunately, the wind continued to drop and the competitors had to wait until day 2 to continue racing.

Four races were scheduled for the

second day of racing with two short course races and one longer inshore race.

Exeter took confidence from their speed and the results from the first day recording a more mixed score line of 9, 3, 1 and 12 which still, surprisingly, kept them in the lead.

Day three brought the long inshore race which has a target time of six hours and involves navigating the majority of the Solent. Having won this race last year Exeter had great expectations but knew it was going to be a long race which could not be won from the start.

Exeter’s yachters had an average start and managed to work their way up to third when the wind disappeared and the tide picked up.

This lead to a nervous wait anchored in the middle of the shipping lane to ensure they weren’t swept through to the Needles and into the channel!

Despite this they managed to keep focussed and were the first to pick up on the new wind that was filling in, remaining in 3rd place overall.

Exeter’s closest rival picked up a 25th in the long distance race, which meant they commanded a good lead going into the final day.

Conditions, however, had changed

“By sailing conservatively and posting a third in the first race of the day, they sealed the event with a race to spare” it became very breezy with poor visibility and rain. In effect, Exeter had no idea where our competition would come from and with two races left in the series, it was all to play for.

By sailing conservatively and posting a third in the first race of the day, they sealed the event with a race to spare.

It was a testament to the teamwork of everyone on board and, although maybe not the most experienced team, by working together Exeter managed to put together an excellent series to edge out Portsmouth University.

Many thanks to Suzy Russell, Yachting Captain for organising the team throught the season and supporting us every step of the way.

This is a fantastic achievement for EUSC, hopefully there are many more victories to follow.

TOM HUNT, a second year Geography student has been chosen as one of the Olympic and Paralympic Games’ Lifeguards for London 2012.

In early 2011, Tom completed an online application to volunteer as a Games Maker for the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, along with another 250,000 people.

At this stage, Tom knew the odds were against him, but for 30 minutes of my time, filling out a single form for a chance to be part of the games was an opportunity he could not miss.

Several months later, Tom was told that his application had been successful and that he had been selected as a Lifeguard for the Aquatics Team, with the next step being an interview and selection event in June 2011.

Tom told Exeposé about how he felt to be chosen; “This opportunity to not only be involved in the Olympic Aquatics Team, but to lifeguard at the London Games, is the pinnacle of my swimming and lifesaving experience.”

After a nerve-wracking interview, Tom had to wait six months before he heard any more news. In January 2012 he was offered the position as a lifeguard and was asked to work in the Aquatics Centre, Water Polo Arena and Eton Manor training pools. By February he had completed his first training session in London at Wembley Arena for general orientation training as one of 70,000 Games Makers.

Then Tom came back in London for role and venue specific training. “I didn’t have time for jet lag! For three days, 40 of us had free reign of the Olympic Aquatics Centre and completed a 5m depth test in the diving pool, deep water spinal rescue techniques and timed swims in the Olympic Pool. The training was aimed at not only testing our competence but also ensuring we were all using the same procedures.”

For the next three days, he lifeguarded the World Synchronised Swimming Championships, which were being used as a test event for the venue.

“This was a completely new experience for me; sat on a pink high chair, radio chatter in my ear piece, HD floodlights glaring down on me, underwater music speakers making the floor vibrate and elite international athletes doing acrobatics two meters in front of me.

“I left London, not only with my free London Prepares Adidas uniform, but awaiting the Olympics with enormous excitement.”