“I imagine being a student is like being on X Factor” Karl Pilkington Pages 14-15 The independent student newspaper of the University of Sheffield // www.forgetoday.com
Bursaries system highlights inequality By Robert Golledge
English student Family income: £17K A Levels: AAB Bursary: £420
Chemistry student Family income: £250K A Levels: AAA Bursary: £785
In some cases richer students receive more support. Figures correct at time of printing.
Photo: Helen Munro
Affluent students could be receiving bigger bursaries than their poorer counterparts due to a flaw in the University of Sheffield’s bursary scheme. Currently, University of Sheffield students who study priority subjects (usually Pure Sciences and Engineering) will automatically get a bursary regardless of their household incomes, if they receive at least one A grade at A Levels. Students who study non-priority subjects (usually Social Sciences and Arts) are only entitled to a bursary if their household income is less than £35,000. Some students from more affluent backgrounds studying priority subjects will therefore receive a larger bursary than students from poorer families who are studying non-priority degrees. A report published earlier this week by the Higher Education Policy Institute (Hepi) has pointed to uneven distributions of money across the higher education sector. According to the University of Sheffield’s bursary calculator, a Chemistry student with a household income of £250,000 with three A grades at A Level will get a £785 bursary, whilst an English student with a household income of £17,000 with two As and a B at A Level will receive £420. A Chemistry student with a household income of more than £35,000 with two As and a B at A Level will receive £520, exactly £100 more than the less affluent English student. Continued on page 2
Uni feels the crunch in staff pay deal By Robert Golledge Staff at the University of Sheffield could be in for a pay increase of more than 10 per cent this year due to the rapid rise in inflation. This October, university staff across the country are due to get a pay increase of 2.5 per cent or the September Retail Price Index (RPI, a measure of inflation), whichever is higher, under
the terms set out in the threeyear pay deal for 2006-2009. RPI is currently 4.8 per cent. This is on top of a nationwide pay increase of three per cent in May this year which means that nationally pay will increase by about eight per cent. A number of University of Sheffield staff received an additional pay rise of three per cent back in January of this year, meaning in total their pay will rise by about 11
per cent. Since the 2006-2009 Higher Education Pay Deal, university staff have received increases totalling more than 10 per cent over 22 months, plus a minimum of an extra 2.5 per cent this year. With the expected RPI figure to be around five per cent, the three-year pay deal could be worth up to 18 per cent for University of Sheffield staff. Continued on page 3
Friday September 19 2008 // Issue 1
Indecency in Union on the increase By Ciaran Jones Security staff at the Union of Students have had to deal with a sharp increase in indecent behaviour in the past year, whilst the number of arrests on the premises have also risen. Cases of indecent behaviour, such as exposure and sex in toilets, rose by 44 per cent from 41 incidents between August 2006 and August 2007 to 73 reports in the following 12 months. This rise is being attributed to the introduction of a zero tolerance policy on reports of indecent behaviour, with security staff being instructed to take all complaints of this nature seriously. Alex Pott, Union Finance Officer, said: “When these figures were released it took everyone by surprise but the increases are due to a new Union zero tolerance policy.” Reports of arrests also rose 44 per cent in the last year from 22 incidents in the period between August 2006 and August 2007 to 39 such cases since then, though these figures are very small in relation to the number of users at the site each year. One factor in the increasing number of arrests is that the police are being called out more frequently to deal with people who refuse to leave the area after being removed by security staff. Over 1200 people were ejected from the Union between August 2007 and August 2008, representing a six per cent drop on the figures for the preceding 12 months. Drug finds were down by almost a half over the same time frame, with just 49 cases since August 2007. This reflects the stringent approach taken by Union security staff to drug taking within the building, where a zero tolerance policy is in operation. The statistics presented to the Union Health and Safety Committee also show that security staff are now extending patrols to outside smoking areas to deter people from using these places to take drugs. Increased patrols inside the building and the visibility of closed circuit television cameras are also helping to tackle the problem. Alex Pott said: “Drug taking has always been something which the Union takes seriously. “We hope to further deter people from engaging in this type of activity.”
2
FORGE PRESS Friday September 19 2008
NEWS UNIVERSITY
Editor
Ciaran Jones
Deputy Editor Jonathan Caldwell Managing Editor Rob Ellerington News
Robert Golledge Mark Duell
News deputies Holly Taylor Charlotte Chelsom-Pill Comment
Kyle Christie Alex Orton
Features
Daniel Baird Kate Dobinson Clare McPartland
Travel
Rachel Ingram
Sport
Jonathan Caldwell Oliver Hughes Paul Garbett
Lifestyle
Bethan Hill Sarah Barns
Fuse
Alistair White Natasha Hoban
Music
Alice Stride Helen Lawson
Screen Jamie Cusworth Natasha Lewis Arts
Hannah Kirby Laura Carlton
Games
Sam Robinson
Letters
Tom Ellis
Copy
Ciaran Jones Jonathan Caldwell
Photographs
Helen Munro Robbie Shone Sarah Ropke
Art
Mark Mackay
Forge Press Media Hub, Union of Students Western Bank, Sheffield S10 2TG 0114 2228646 forgepress@forgetoday.com
Forge Press is part of Forge Media
Forge Press is published by the Union of Students. Views expressed are not necessarily those of the University, the Union or the editorial team. In the first instance all complaints should be addressed to the Managing Editor, although a formal procedure exists.
Sheffield graduate predicted to be new leader of the Met By Robert Golledge As speculation mounts over the future of the Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sir Ian Blair,, a graduate from the University of Sheffield is being touted as a possible replacement. Bernard Hogan-Howe, Chief Constable of Merseyside Police, graduated from the University in 1999 with a MBA in Business Administration and served as an Assistant Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police from 2001 to 2004. With Sir Ian’s position becoming increasingly untenable, HoganHowe is amongst top ranking officers who could be elevated to the position of Britian’s most senior police officer should Sir Ian resign or be sacked. Pressure has been mounting on the Government to sack Sir Ian Blair since the shooting of Brazilian Jean Charles de Menezes in 2005, who was mistakenly thought to be a terrorist. Sir Ian, whose contract expires in February 2010, is also under investigation by Her Majesty’s Inspector of Constabulary (HMIC) over claims that he influenced the decision to award a £3m Met contract to a close friend. Assistant Commissioner Tarique Ghaffur is currently taking employment tribunal proceedings against Sir Ian, claiming he has been racially discriminated against. Sheffield-born Hogan-Howe started his police career as District Commander for Doncaster West with South Yorkshire Police in 1979. He joined Merseyside Police in 1997 and was made Gold Commander for the Millennium celebrations, the Open Championship golf tournament and during the petrol disputes of 2000/2001. After a three-year stint with the Met, Mr Hogan-Howe was appointed Chief Constable of Merseyside Police in 2004. Earlier this year Mr HoganHowe criticised judges for imposing short prison sentences for gun crime, saying mandatory sentences were being ignored. He has also argued that police work has been restricted since a health and safety case was successfully brought against the Met after the shooting of Jean Charles de Menezes.
Quat praesequisi et vendrer ipisit, conulput augait lametue riurer il euis conulput augait lametue riurer il euis
Have your say Comment on this article at Forgetoday.com Send a letter to letters@forgetoday.com Text us on 07765363716
The Metropolitan Police’s New Scotland Yard and (inset) candidate Bernard Hogan-Howe.
Student media convergence
Student bursaries
This year sees a number of large changes for student media at the University, as the student newspaper, website and radio station join forces. Forge Media is the new collaborative name for Forge Press, Forge Radio and Forgetoday.com (formerly known as Sheffield Steel Press, Sure Radio and Shefbase. com) as well as the newly-formed Forge TV. The new structure is designed to provide student contributors with the opportunity to produce media across a range of platforms. It also aims to make the best use of student media content, by ensuring it is distributed in a range of ways, on the most appropriate platforms.
Continued from front...
Broadcasting from the Media Hub. The melting pot for all student media will be Forgetoday.com which will host all student media content, including news, reviews,
features, sport, podcasts, live radio, listen again shows, newspaper PDFs and TV content in one place. Forge Radio is the Union’s student-run radio station, broadcasting online every day throughout term time. Forge Press is the fortnightly newspaper of the Union, with an estimated readership of 15,000 students. Forge TV will produce video news, arts, entertainment and sports content. All student media are based in the Media Hub on level four of the Union. To get involved, visit the Forge Media stall at the Activities Fair, or email contribute@forgetoday.com.
A slight difference in A Level grades can also have a big effect on the sum of money a student can receive. An English student with a household income of £13,000 and three A grades at A Level will be entitled to £2,305, but if the same student was to get two As and a B they would only be entitled to £680, a difference of £1,625. Dave Hurst, Union President, said: “It highlights that Higher Education Institutions (HEI) are under funded by the government and that there are a major problems with the distributions of student bursaries. “Nationally there is a call for a national bursary scheme with a
central pot of money which should avoid distribution problems. “There are additional hardship funds, but this was cut by 36 per cent last year. We will be campaigning for a total overhaul of HEI funding at the time of the 2009 review.” A spokesperson from the University of Sheffield said: “All students are treated fairly as they are assessed for an income bursary regardless of which subject they study. “The University reviewed its bursary scheme at the end of the last academic year. As a result, the issue of students from low income backgrounds getting less because they are not doing certain subjects has been addressed.”
FORGE PRESS Friday September 19 2008
3
Multi-million pound makeover for iconic Arts Tower next year By Victoria Hawkins Plans for a £15 million refurbishment of the Arts Tower have been approved with work scheduled to begin on the Grade II* listed building in June 2009. The main improvements will be to ventilation and toilet facilities across all floors, whilst levels nine to 19 will benefit from a full renovation. The work will be carried out by construction company HBG who have a history of working on historic buildings in Yorkshire, having previously worked on Sheffield City Hall and Harrogate Royal Hall. James Wimpenny, North East Director of HBG, said: “We’re really proud to be involved with the iconic Arts Tower, and hope to continue our association with the city’s finest and most historic buildings.” Opened in 1966, the Arts Tower was originally only intended to accommodate 160 members of staff and 1,000 students but
Comment on this article at Forgetoday.com Send a letter to press.letters@forgetoday.com Text us on 07765363716
Work begins in June to make the Arts Tower more sustainable and accessible. Heritage had to give support to the project. Grade II* listed buildings make up just four per cent of all listed buildings. Neil Cameron, Director
of Estates at the University of Sheffield, said: “We fully appreciate that the Arts Tower is a listed building and, along with HBG Construction, we will
Photo: Helen Munro
remain committed to restoring and preserving its architectural heritage, while at the same time ensuring that it meets the future needs of our staff and students.”
Uni staff pay increase squeezes budgets Continued from front... When the deal was negotiated in 2006 the RPI measure of inflation was in the region of two per cent, but due to the worsening economic climate that figure has climbed to nearly five per cent in the past few months. As a result of the pay increase many universities could find themselves in financial difficulties, meaning cuts to staff positions and reducing expenditure could become a possibility. Like other institutions the University is likely to postpone the payment until November as the final September RPI
Uni rugby team lose ticket allocation
By Robert Golledge
Have your say
currently has up to double that amount using the facility on a daily basis. Union Education Officer Rebecca Watson agreed that the building was in need of restoration. She said: “The Arts Tower is at a point where it needs to be revived and rethought, particularly in terms of its general environment and accessibility. “Lifts break frequently, the paternoster can be quite unreliable and there is a visible lack of toilets. It is not an ideal learning environment as it can inconvenience many of our student members. “Hopefully, the new building plans will ensure that the Arts Tower will become a sustainable and accessible building for the next 30 years, which will benefit both students and staff, emphasising open space, comfort and learning space.” Owing to the Arts Tower’s status as a listed building, English
UNIVERSITY NEWS
figure is not released until mid-October. The pay rise will then be backdated to the start of October. Andrew Dodman, Deputy Director of Human Resources at the University of Sheffield, said: “The magnitude of the October pay increases will stretch the finances of all Higher Education Institutions (HEI) and some may be forced to phase or defer payment, as allowed for under the terms of the 2006-2009 pay agreement. “The University of Sheffield has honoured all elements of successive pay agreements and it is not our current intention to depart from the practice.
“However, the University will need to carefully consider the actual RPI rate for September and its impact on the planned budgets.” As a result of the high pay increases over the last three years, future pay deals are unlikely to be as good for university staff. Mr. Dodman added: “The next pay settlement will relate to August 2009 onwards, with the agreed timetable for national negotiations to commence shortly. It is inevitable that the cumulative effect of the 2006-2009 salary increases will place serious constraints on pay settlements for August 2009 and beyond.”
Lecturers strike in 2006 over pay.
The University of Sheffield men’s rugby union team could lose out on vital sponsorship after the Rugby Football Union banned the club from applying for England international tickets for the next two years. Like every rugby union club in England, the University’s rugby club has a ticket allocation for Six Nations matches. As a way of attracting lucrative sponsorship, the rugby club offered sponsors the tickets they had bought as a gratuity. As a gift the club gave tickets to one of last season’s sponsors. One of these tickets was placed up for sale on an auction website by one of the sponsor’s clients. Whilst the club did nothing wrong, the RFU still hold them responsible for the client who put the tickets on an auction website as this violates RFU’s regulations. The RFU were able to trace the ticket back to the club and, despite having sympathy with the club’s case, they decided to impose a two-year ban on applying for tickets. Stuart Totty, club captain, said: “It is very unfortunate that one of these tickets was to end up on an auction website after the sponsor involved had given it to a client who subsequently sold it on. “The reaction from the RFU is unfortunate but is their standard response to such situations. Our case is however being argued by the South Yorkshire Rugby Development Officer with the hope of reinstating an allocation for the forthcoming Six Nations.” Sport teams at the University only get training facilities and BUCS (British Universities and Colleges Sport) match-day costs paid for, meaning clubs are forced to generate income by finding alternative means of funding to cover the costs of kits and transport. One of the ways the University’s rugby union team has attracted sufficient sponsorship is by offering sponsors England international tickets. Ella White, Union Sports Officer, said: “I believe the club was acting in good faith and I support them in the ways they raise money for the club. “Maybe they could have thought more carefully about who they gave tickets to, but overall their actions were in good faith.” The club annually buys its ticket allocation, giving some to sponsors and raffling the rest to members, as another source of raising funds. Funding the club, who run three teams in the BUCS leagues, can be incredibly difficult according to first XV captain, Rob Grocock. He said: “A situation like this is obviously a kick in the teeth as we’d love to keep our whole allocation for the club’s many members. However, funding to compete on a weekly basis has to be the priority. “Even with the dedication and hard work of the University’s Sports Committee, led by Ella (White) and Andrew (Cox, Sports Manager), funding for sport and sporting facilities remains a serious issue here.”
4
FORGE PRESS Friday September 19 2008
NEWS UNIVERSITY
Give It A Go activities moved from Endcliffe Village over licensing fears By Charlotte Chelsom-Pill The Union’s popular Give It A Go programme has suffered a setback after some of its events at the University residences have had to be cancelled. Licensing laws which restrict the access of non-residents to the Endliffe Villiage have prompted Accommodation and Campus Services (ACS) to cancel numerous events planned for the upcoming term. Wine tasting, knitting, and ceilidh are among the nine events which have been cancelled from the Give It A Go programme in the Endliffe Village. Although several events have since been rescheduled, the Endcliffe Village will no longer be a key host for the popular introductory activities. ACS claim that this action is necessary due to fears that the events would encourage nonresidents into Endcliffe Villiage and compromise relations with the local community. A spokesperson for ACS said: “We have a duty to our residents to ensure that their safety and security is not compromised and we felt that to allow open access to these particular venues could present a security risk to those living in the adjacent accommodation.
Have your say Comment on this article at Forgetoday.com Send a letter to press.letters@forgetoday.com Text us on 07765363716 “It is part of the University’s Noise Management Plan for The Endcliffe Village, which is linked to The Edge Bar Liquor Licence and our licence for The Endcliffe Lounge, that only residents, bona fide guests of residents, and guests are allowed to attend events within the bars. “Unfortunately, due to our consideration of our relationship with the local community, we cannot jeopardise the cancellation of our licences by encouraging
The Endcliffe Village was due to host several Give It A Go events but have been moved or cancelled due to licensing laws. non-residents to events that are being held in the bars.” Give It A Go events allow students to try out activites in one-off sessions and are run by most Union societies. Matt Fox, Union Activities
Officer, expressed his regret. He said: “Although the Give It A Go Programme would have been heavily promoted towards first years, the Union could not guarantee that, although unlikely, no non-first years
would not attend, and thus some activities had to be dropped from the original programme. “I was disappointed with this decision, but there will still be a lot of activities taking place in The Edge, from card making to
Photo: Helen Munro
belly dancing. “I and the rest of the Activities team are very excited about the opportunities the programme will give to students and the amount of fun they will be able to have.”
King’s President in race dispute at NUS event By Charlotte Chelsom-Pill Sheffield Union Officers have united to back the NUS Black Students Officer after the President of King’s College London Students’ Union made
controversial comments at a recent NUS training event. Chris Mullan sparked anger among NUS representatives at a leadership event held at The University of York when he allegedly linked increasing numbers of black students with higher rates of knife and gun crime. During a role play based on a fictional university called Fibchester, it has been claimed that Mullan suggested that the university would need to install metal detectors if they recruited more students from ethnic minority backgrounds. It is alleged that he made the comment in response to a call made by NUS President Wes Streeting, who was playing the role of the Vice-Chancellor of the university, KCLSU President Chris Mullan.
to widen participation. At the same event Craig Cox, University of Nottingham Education Officer held up a poster which said: ‘Bring Back Slavery’. In response, NUS Black Students Officer Bellavia RibeiroAddy has called for new NUS regulations, including equality training events. She said: “I received a complaint just after the session from a black student. Most of the people I spoke to that evening were black students, all of them angry and some were so outraged they left. I hope that we all agree that this is unacceptable.” Fiona Edwards, the University of Sheffield Union Women’s Officer, attended the event. She said: “This behaviour violates NUS equal opportunities policy and left many black students
feeling threatened and insulted. “The whole officer team think this is a disgrace. We fully support the action taken by the NUS Black Students Officer, and will continue to pressure NUS to ensure racism is never tolerated in our national union.” Chris Mullan has since released a statement declaring his innocence. He claims that his calls for increased security at the university were due to the increase of national knife and gun crime, and not the influx of black students. He said: “The only people I referred to as undesirable on a campus were any persons who carried a gun or a knife.” He went on to say: “I expressed regret for any possible offence inadvertently caused.”
It has been claimed that Ribeiro-Addy, who did not attend the event, has given an inaccurate account of Mullan’s comments. London School of Economics Student Union General Secretary Aled Fisher said: “During the role play, Chris asked a question: ‘Given the increase in knife crime in the area, if we’re going to widen participation, are you going to install a metal detector?’ “He did not use the phrase ‘black people’ at all. Everyone was very involved in the role play at the time and it wasn’t obvious that it caused offence.” Mr. Mullan has since been cleared by the NUS but has been suspended from his post at King’s College London pending an independent enquiry. The NUS investigation into Cox is ongoing.
FORGE PRESS Friday September 19 2008
5
Comedy group sells out shows at Edinburgh Fringe Festival
UNIVERSITY NEWS
New links with Broomhill announced By Deputy News Editors
Quat praesequisi et vendrer ipisit, conulput augait lametue riurer il euis conulput augait lametue riurer il euis
The Shrimps improvisation act was a big hit with audiences at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, selling out seven performances in a 14 night run. By Charlotte Chelsom-Pill A comedy group from the University of Sheffield is celebrating after performing in front of sell-out crowds at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. The Shrimps, whose act is totally improvised, performed their Catch of the Day show at the Sweet Teviot Place, Edinburgh. They sold out seven nights of their 14 night run, with virtually full houses in the remaining shows. The show also received a four star review from festival magazine Three Weeks. Performer Helen O’Donnell, a third year Architecture student, said: “Holding our own against the comedy stars at the festival
is something we’re all really proud of, and it made the hours of flyering really worth it.” The society was started in 2006, and has since quickly found success within the University and across Sheffield. They have a regular slot at the Last Laugh Comedy Club, South Yorkshire’s longest running comedy club, and a support slot at The Slaughterhouse Live’s show in the Foundry. The Shrimps have also appeared on BBC Radio Sheffield, and now have a monthly set at the University of Manchester’s student comedy club Squirrels. Neil Bradbury, Shrimps performer and second year Biomedical Science student said:
“I think the north of England has lacked anything in the way of student comedy and it’s clearly a void that people want filled.” Following their success at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, the Shrimps are anticipating further success with the start of a new University term. Shaun Lowthian, performer and Politics postgraduate, said: “The Edinburgh Festival has given everyone in the society a real boost and we’re really excited about the upcoming year. “The society has grown into one of the country’s best improvisation groups in a really short space of time, so the sky is the limit.” Fellow performer and History postgraduate Nick Oram said : “It
has really opened our eyes to how much we can achieve. It has given us such a boost and we want as many people as possible to have the fun we’ve had. We hope loads of students get involved at the beginning of this year.” The Shrimps hold weekly open workshops during term time to encourage fellow University of Sheffield students to become involved in improvised comedy. They are also planning the first Sheffield Student Comedy Festival in the Union next March, in aid of the mental health charity Sheffield Mind. They will be performing at a free Freshers’ Week event at the Edge bar on Saturday, September 28.
A new programme has been developed to improve relations between University of Sheffield students and local residents. The initiative has created positions for Student Community Representatives who will liaise with members of the local community. Their role will include attending neighbourhood meetings and bridging any gaps between the students and residents. Lee Kenny, chair of the Broomhill Action Neighbourhood Group (BANG), said: “We think this initiative is a wonderful idea. “We are keen to ensure that the BANG has representatives from all areas of the community and are very pleased to have students involved.” The Sheffield initiative plans to follow in the footstep of the University of Leeds Union of Students who run a successful scheme using Union Community Representatives to combat attempts by local authorities to restrict student residential areas. Welfare Officer Kathryn Axon said: “Although Sheffield isn’t among the worst hit University cities in the country for local community/student conflict we need to be proactive now rather than reactive later. “This is a positive development. The problems faced by local residents are caused by a minority of students so we want to challenge the stereotypes and showcase what students bring to Sheffield.” This isn’t the first time neighbourhood groups have been made aware of student interest in the issue. Previously, BANG has been approached by students towards the end of the academic year having witnessed the frictions which can occur. The introduction of these representatives will offer a committed point of contact throughout the year. The positions will be advertised to students during the Freshers’ Week Activities Fair. Those who are awarded the role will be awarded a £200-£300 bursary and will begin work by the end of semester one.
Students campaign against Women’s Officer post
By Holly Taylor A group of students from the University of Sheffield are heading up another campaign to replace the Union Women’s Officer position with an Equality Officer. The position of Women’s Officer was saved by referendum last year as the required two thirds majority required to change the Union constitution was not reached. The have set up a website as a platform for their campaign. Joe Frake, a second year Politics and German student and the creator of the group, stressed that this is not intended
Fiona Edwards, Women’s Officer.
to be a malicious or destructive campaign. He said: “There is a democratic deficit at our Union. Women have direct sabbatical representation, but LGBT, disabled and black students don’t. This is not fair, right or equal. Our Union can do better than that; the system needs reform” “It is painstakingly obvious that students want change, and the Equality Officer Campaign seeks to provide that change, but not without consulting students first.” Incumbent Women’s Officer Fiona Edwards said: “At March’s referendum, students democratically decided to keep the Women’s Officer. Without the
Have your say Comment on this article at Forgetoday.com Send a letter to press.letters@forgetoday.com Text us on 07765363716 Women’s Officer, vital services including the women’s safety bus and campaigns such as that against the 15 per cent pay gap would be threatened. “Women remain grossly underrepresented throughout the University; for example none of the seven Pro-Vice Chancellors appointed last year are women.
“I am fully committed to proper representation for all groups who face discrimination, and oppose the divisive and insulting claim that this can only come at the expense of women’s representation.” Dave Hurst, Union President, said: “There is a need for geniuine representation of marginalised groups, but I believe that this proposal is actually more of a backward step in terms of achieving that.” Rebecca Watson, Union Education Officer, added: “Speaking to Equality Officers across the UK, they all agree: how can one officer can realistically divide their time between all these underrepresented groups?”
6
FORGE PRESS Friday September 19 2008
NEWS LOCAL
Sheffield journalists fight cuts to staff by Star owners Johnston Press By Robert Golledge Journalists at The Star newspaper in Sheffield are campaigning to save the jobs of five experienced editorial staff after owners Johnston Press announced plans to make their positions redundant. Members of the Sheffield Newspapers chapel of the National Union of Journalists (NUJ) staged a successful newsroom walkout on Wednesday, September 10, after 68 per cent of members voted in favour of striking. A vote of no confidence in The Star’s editor, Alan Powell, was also passed. Further strike action is being planned for this coming Wednesday, September 24. Staff who have been approached about the redundancy plans are Picture Editor Dennis Lound, Profile magazine and Star Business Editor John Highfield, Assistant Editor Richard Smith, Barnsley reporter Gail Robinson and Rotherham reporter Ray Parkin. The five journalists have more than 100 years of experience between them. Sheffield Newspapers NUJ mother-of-chapel Julia Armstrong said: “The company has decided that because of the credit crunch, Johnston Press have to make cuts across the group and have identified people they think they can do without. “We are worried about the future of The Star and this is epitomised by the axing offices in Rotherham and Barnsley. “We believe the way to sell more newspapers is to invest in editorial content rahter than employ a skeleton staff. We
will fight these cuts. “During the strike Johnston Press paid PA (Press Association) to write copy, and we believe some pages were designed in India. Obviously this is also something we are worried about.” Interim results for the first half of 2008 show Johnston Press recorded an operating profit of £81.6 million before non-recurring
Have your say Comment on this article at Forgetoday.com Send a letter to press.letters@forgetoday.com Text us on 07765363716 items. The company have also announced cuts to editorial staff in Northampton and Scotland. Jeremy Dear, NUJ General Secretary, said: “The results show that the company’s newspapers continue to make money, so it’s madness that management is stripping away its greatest assets: its journalists. “Despite a drop in advertising revenues, the company is showing a 27.9 per cent operating profit margin. That goes to show that the basic business of regional newspapers is still sound. Johnston Press said: “Certain companies within the group have announced proposals which, together with any related issues, are subject to local consultation. Every effort is being made to minimise the impact on those affected by examining all alternatives. “Johnston Press companies are fully aware of their obligations to all employees, the need to invest in quality journalism and the importance of safeguarding future business prospects in the face of the current downturn in advertising markets.” NUJ General Secretary Jeremy Dear
The Star in Sheffield is facing cuts to its editorial staff.
Photo: Helen Munro
Deprived homes feel the chill Developer problems By Holly Taylor Families and pensioners in South Yorkshire may miss out on Cold Weather Payments this winter owing to a flaw in the system. The payments are given to households where the average temperature is zero degrees or lower over a week long period. However, this is decided by the readings from Meteorological Office weather stations, three of which cover different areas of Sheffield. This means the possibility of some households getting a payment will be entirely dependent on their postcode. Areas which fall into S1 to S14 postcodes come under the
Poor estates could miss out. Nottingham weather station, for which no payments have been triggered since 2001. This means economically deprived areas such as Manor, Burngreave, Parson Cross and Darnall seem to be
unlikely to receive any help. Other areas which may also miss out include Gleadless, Beighton, Dinnington, Chesterfield, Rotherham and Worksop. Sheffield Council Leader Paul Scriven said he would be demanding answers from the Government; “This is a ridiculous Russian roulette approach to dealing with people who will find themselves having to choose between eating and putting the heating on.” The Cold Weather Payment has risen this year from £8.50 to £25 for each week of very cold weather, adding fuel to the argument that now, more than ever, families cannot afford to miss out on this help.
By Holly Taylor Urban Splash, the company redeveloping the Park Hill flats in Sheffield, is facing huge financial problems caused by the slowdown in the housing market. The company has announced plans to consult with employees on a number of job losses arising from the continued demise of the UK economy. It is unknown whether the announcement of job losses would hit staff in Sheffield working on the £165 million project. Councillor Bob McCann, Sheffield Council cabinet
Member for Housing, said: “We have had conversations with Urban Splash and they have assured us that everything is still going ahead on time.” Two years ago plans to convert the 1950s Park Hill complex into an aesthetic masterpiece with new shops, restaurants, and bars were approved. More than 850 new flats are due to be built in the existing listed building. Urban Splash said: “In spite of a buoyant year-end, sales in the first and second quarter continue to disappoint. The changes are especially regrettable given the loyal, hard-working ‘family’ of longserving staff.”
FORGE PRESS Friday September 19 2008
7
Felix cycles with ex-England rugby star Dallaglio for charity By Ciaran Jones A University of Sheffield student is cycling nearly 1,000 kilometres through a European mountain range alongside former England rugby star Lawrence Dallaglio to raise money for charity. Felix Evans, 22, a third year International Relations and Politics student, plans to cycle 933 kilometres through the Pyrenees in just eight days. The trip is part of a project to raise £175,000 for Bliss, a baby care charity which provides support and care for premature and unwell babies born in the UK. Felix starts his journey in Biarritz on Thursday, September 25, and will be part of a team of around 30 cyclists, including former England captain Dallaglio. The route will take the group of fundraisers over 30 steep mountains, with a climb of nearly 2000 metres each day. Felix, who says that the project will be one of the biggest challenges of his life, has been working hard over the summer to ensure that he can cope with the physical demands of the task. He said: “I’ve done a few things in the past like rowing and running, but I’ve always wanted to do a big event. “I’ve been doing a lot of training; the most recent ride I did was a 100 mile cycle around the Peak District. “It’s not a race as the challenge is just to complete it but I think we’re having daily sweepstakes and maybe an overall sweepstake. “The training is easing down now; my bike is being shipped on the 15th so it will just be a bit of running after that.” The weather is the other main hurdle for the group to overcome, with temperatures varying from searing heat near sea level to near winter conditions further up the mountains. Felix said: “Apparently in September it can range from baking heat to torrential rain. We’ve got arm and leg warmers as well as shorts and team jerseys so we just need fleeces and things like that.” The group are aiming to raise £175,000 for Bliss, with Felix setting himself a target of £1,500. To sponsor him, visit www. justgiving .com/felixevans.
UNIVERSITY NEWS
Boys jailed Two 16-year-old boys who left a Sheffield Hallam University student with life-threatening injuries have been jailed for a total of seven years. Adrian Shield, 21, was left with a fractured skull, a bleeding brain and breathing problems after he was attacked on West Street in May this year. Lewis East, was jailed for four years after pleading guilty to causing grievous bodily harm with intent. Steven Savage was sentenced to three years for the same offence. East, who was serving a community sentence for knifepoint robbery at the time of the attack, was under the influence of alcohol and cannabis on the night of the attack.
Arctic trek
A third-year Medicine student at the University of Sheffield is part of a team which has just broken a 120-year-old world record for trekking across the Arctic. Medic, Captain Phylip Scott shares his name with the record holder Captain Robert Falcon Scott who was a British Royal Naval officer and explorer. Capt Scott, aged 32, serves parttime with the Territorial Army in Sheffield and was one of nine to take the challenge. Not only were they successful but they arrived eight days ahead of schedule, pacing across in twenty-seven days. The British team’s effort marked the first attempt of the crossing in twenty years. Capt Scott, who as a full-time soldier has previously served in Iraq, Kosovo, Germany and the Falklands, prepared for the trek by climbing in the Alps.
Actors needed Have your say Comment on this article at Forgetoday.com Send a letter to letters@forgetoday.com Text us on 07765363716
Third year student Felix Evans gears up for his 580 mile trip around the Pyrenees for charity. Photo: Helen Munro
Professor Dominic Shellard, ProVice-Chancellor for External Affairs, is looking for actors to appear in a short play by the Sheikh of Sharjah that he is directing on Monday, November 10, in the Theatre Workshop. The production of Nimrod, to be attended by the Sheikh, will celebrate the award of his honorary degree. There is also a strong possibility that the cast will be invited back to Sharjah (next to Dubai) in the spring. If you are interested in being involved, come along to the Theatre Workshop on Shearwood Road at 4pm on Wednesday, September 24, or contact Dominic on d.m.shellard@shef.ac.uk.
Su Doku champion Vision 2012 consultation
By Jonathan Caldwell A Mathematics undergraduate at the University of Sheffield has become National Su Doku Champion for the second time in four years. Nina Pell first won the event, and the £1,000 prize, in 2005 and by winning this year’s crown she became the first person ever to win the trophy twice. The competition saw Ms Pell complete four puzzles in just 18 minutes in the first round before she finished four harder puzzles in 31 minutes in the grand final. She finished two minutes ahead of her closest rival. The 21-year-old did admit that her victory in the final round was
helped by a large slice of luck. In one of the last remaining puzzles Ms Pell made a guess at an answer of which she was only 50 per cent certain. She said: “It was a four or an eight. I went with a four. If I’d got it wrong, I’d have to have rubbed it all out. It would probably have taken about 10 minutes to do it all again.” invigilators wouldn’t be able to read it.”
Nina Pell: Suduko winner
By Charlotte Chelsom-Pill A consultation will take place in the Union this year regarding the future of the University of Sheffield’s Union of Students. In wake of Vision 2012, a proposal for the rejuvenation of the Union of Students, the Union is eager to gauge student opinion on the plans for 2012 over the coming year. Students will be encouraged to respond to emails which will be sent in the first week of term. Plans will also be on display around campus. The consultation hopes to collect feedback on a range of ideas including a new environmentally friendly building, and promoting the Union as a democratic and creative organisation.
Alex Pott, Union Finance Officer said: “Vision 2012 is a fantastic opportunity for the Students'
Have your say Comment on this article at Forgetoday.com Send a letter to press.letters@forgetoday.com Text us on 07765363716 Union to develop and improve to really reflect the needs, wants and desires of students. “All the different strands will ensure that we are truly led by students” The Union has recently been voted the number one Students’ Union in the country.
The Union.
Photo: Helen Munro
8
FORGE PRESS Friday September 19 2008
LETTERS
Have your say Star letter: Free sexual health advice available
Dear Forge, This year the Welfare Committee is pleased to announce the re-launch of Sexplored. For those of you who don’t know, Sexplored is the Student Union’s free weekly sexual heath problems and awareness drop in centre. Sexplored is held every Wednesday 12-2pm in The Gallery area of the Union building. At Sexplored we are here to help with anything you need to know about sex. We offer free contraception, impartial and confidential advice on a whole host of sexual health related topics from fully trained student volunteers and you can also pick up a DIY Chlamydia testing kit
because if you don’t test yourself you don’t know you’re clear! The Student Union also offers the Student Advice Centre, located on Level Three of the Union building. This provides free, confidential advice, as well as being an information service for all students. Specialist advice is provided for issues concerning housing, finance, academic, immigration, employment and consumer enquiries. If you need specialist advice pop into the reception of the Student Advice Centre or give them a call 0114 222 8660. Yours, Kathryn Axon, Welfare Officer
Star letter is sponsored by Your Harley
Buildings versus books Dear Forge, Why is it that the University seem to be building on every conceivable patch of land between the Children’s Hospital and the Mappin Building? I understand that some departments might feel that they need modernising but surely this could be done
Write: Forge Press, Union of Students, Western Bank, Sheffield S10 2TG Email: press.letters@forgetoday.com Text: 07765363716 Please include your name, course and year of study more cost-effectively by a process of refurbishing the existing departments? The University spend money hand over fist for new department buildings yet I am forced to buy dozens of novels and textbooks every academic year because I am told by tutors that the department and library cannot afford to put a sufficient number of copies in the library. Fair? Yours, Anon, third year English student
Your texts Just got back to Uni; what is going on with the prices in the Union Shop? A 35 pence increase in the price of samosas over the summer?! Not for profit? Yeah, right. I just wanted to text in and say welcome and good luck to all new students! Enjoy your first semester in Sheffield. Kat xx
Should £15m be spent on the Arts Tower? The winner receives a free meal for two and a Lock-In membership at Your Harley
Forge Press letters - your page, your voice
As your student newspaper, we try to cover the issues that affect you the most. If you’ve got a reaction to something we’ve covered, or if you just want to get something off your chest, we want to hear from you. email: press.letters@forgetoday.com or text: 07765363716
Kate Cooper, 22, third year Biblical Studies “Yes. At least this will ensure our lectures are in a more aesthetically pleasing environment which is more conducive to learning.”
ADVERTISEMENT
Caroline Ewart-James, 20, second year English and Music
Abbas Wali, 21, postgraduate Computer Sciences
“No. It’s an eye-sore. They should get rid of it or spend the money on something different altogether.”
“It’s a good idea as it doesn’t match the rest of the University buildings, inside or out. It definitely seems dated.”
Unilink bus services from First - making travelling around Sheffield easier Did you know that as a student you are entitled to many offers and discounts when travelling that other people just don’t get? And this also applies to dedicated student bus services. We at First like to make things as easy as possible for students travelling around, especially students new to the city, so this is why we have the Unilink bus service which even has a special cheap fare, only for students. Run by a team of dedicated drivers (so you can recognise them and say hello!), the Unilink services take you from Endcliffe Student Village, straight to Uni without any hassle or fuss. And on services 80, 81 and 82, a single fare is only 70p! Bargain! Or if you are even more savvy, there’s the First12Journey ticket which is 10 single trips for the price of 7 at £7, so 2 journeys free! Even better! The Unilink buses on the 80 service stand out in different colours so you wont miss them, even if you
went out the night before. With their distinctive purple and blue colours, you’ll see them coming. If you’re the type of person who travels about more or wants to use other First bus services and still get value for money, then there are other offers for you. The FirstTerm Student ticket works out at £9 per week for unlimited travel across Sheffield for a full term and saves you having to worry about budgeting for travel, especially towards the end of term when the purse is getting a bit empty. You can buy these online from www. studentbustravel.co.uk or in Sheffield from South Yorkshire Travel Information Centres at Meadowhall, Sheffield Interchange, Arundel Gate or Cambridge Street. Remember to take your university ID with you as the FirstTerm Student tickets are only valid with this pass. For more information, contact First Customer Services on 01709 566000
FORGE PRESS Friday September 19 2008
9
COMMENT
The crumbling Arts Tower could use a facelift, it’s about time we fixed it up
But why waste £15 million on an eyesore? We can get more for our money
By Duncan Robinson
By Jo Wendel
The Arts Tower is a problem. Student opinion of the building seems split. Some love it, others find it an eyesore. The building requires a £15 million facelift to hide the cracks of middle age. It also requires major alterations to increase its energy efficiency and to reduce chronic congestion in its corridors. The vast sum required for these improvements has led many to question whether it is worth repairing. Were it not for the protection of it being a Grade II* listed building, much of the student population would be happy to see it go, and the money spent elsewhere. The Arts Tower should stand today as a symbol of the University’s visions and aspirations as well as its desire for innovation. Instead it stands bleak and unloved. Its critics are right, the design has dated. The adage that “nothing dates so quickly as visions of
The Arts Tower was opened in 1966 and was ultramodern in its day. But can its future existence be justified, especially when it comes with a £15million price tag? Originally it housed 100 staff and 1,000 students. Today 300 staff and 2,500 students cram themselves into the building each day. As much as I appreciate the character and oddity of the Tower, there is no denying that the current situation is unsustainable. The problems are numerous: poor ventilation, obsolete furniture and cramped lecture theatres. The big yellow ‘Hazardous: Asbestos’ sign that greets me every Tuesday morning is particularly ominous. Granted, the Arts Tower is Grade II* listed, and considered ‘a prime example of post-war modernist architecture’. But the listing basically means that the building cannot be demolished, and any alterations have to be specially approved and fit in with the original style. However, it is possible to have a building de-listed. The press release on the University’s web page refers to the refurbishing as ‘building for the future’, which is ironic, because they seem to be doing the opposite.
Style is vilified, before it is properly investigated the future” certainly rings true. Indeed, the Modern Movement as a whole has become increasingly unpopular in recent times. But this is common for all architectural styles: “There is a kind of trough of despair that architecture falls into around 30-years-old when
The Arts Tower basement. its style is vilified, before it is properly investigated and understood,” pointed out Professor Blundell Jones of the University’s School of Architecture. “Remember the gross prejudice against Victorian and Edwardian Architecture that was rife in the 1960s when the Arts Tower was built? “We knocked down dozens of good Victorian buildings. We’d be keeping them now, had they survived,” he said. Like it or not, the Arts Tower is a symbol for the University. It cannot fail to be, it’s the tallest building on campus and dominates Sheffield’s skyline. If the tower continues
Photo: Helen Munro to stand as it does today then it reflects extremely poorly on the University as a whole, no matter how shiny and new the IC or the Humanities building are. The choice was a simple one. The University could have either left its most recognised building to rot, its functionality spoilt by problems of overcrowding and general deterioration, or it could have done something to improve the situation for generations of students to come. The fact it chose the latter shows the University is prepared to look to the future, without abandoning its past or its place in the city’s skyline.
Yes they should value tradition, but not by spurning the future. A university must be a place for change and innovation. There is the distinct possibility that the Arts Tower will become a black hole for money as more and more problems crop up. Also, structural problems may render it too dangerous to use, closing it long before its planned redundancy date.
They should value tradition, but not spurn the future It seems irresponsible for the University to be spending millions on such a project, especially in a time of financial crisis and debt. There are plenty of other areas in better need of funding. The refurbishment will
consist of several phases. Only the first two are covered by the contract which the University is awarding to HBG. For a mere £8 million more the University managed to build the IC. Surely a whole new building would make financial sense in the long term? The building works will disrupt teaching for over ten per cent of the student population, as they will be spread out in temporary premises around campus. The reasonable part of me considers the University’s investment rather mad and misplaced, whilst my sentimental side only needs one ride on the paternoster lift to convince me that it is money well spent. Ultimately, the cost of the Arts Tower cannot be justified. It is time to let go and think of a new symbolic building.
‘To make a change we have to work together’ Each issue a member of the Union Officer team reports on their their aims, objectives and activities. May I firstly take this opportunity to introduce myself as Dave Hurst, the Sheffield Union President. I look forward to my first term in office and getting to know as many of you as I can. I want to work heavily on getting you involved in issues that deeply concern and impact on you. To
Dave Hurst, Union President
make a change we have to work together and fight for a better deal for students. We as Student Officers can only do so much, but if students get involved we have a real tool for change. When the Union is thought of, I want it to be as a serious political instigator for pressure along with the fantastic services we offer. But this can only be achieved with you. The negative situations that we can find ourselves in due to University and
government decisions can be challenged, and it is the Union’s role to lead and support you in fighting these issues. The first campaign we will be running is that of Student Debt and Financial Hardship. The campaign focuses on the different reasons that students end up in so much debt, which is typically due to tuition fees and accommodation expenses. A newsletter has been produced and is available to
pick up around the Union. It explains the marketisation of Higher Education and the astronomical increases in cost of University accommodation. Furthermore it covers the issues facing international students and how student debt exacerbates existing inequalities in society. The newsletter offers practical advice as well. The next step of the campaign will focus around getting people involved and working out together
the best ways that we can tackle these issues. There is a campaign group being set up for people who want to get involved. To get involved or be kept informed there will be signup sheets at the Activities Fair. Alternatively, send an email to: officercampaigns@ sheffield.ac.uk to be added to the contact list. If you like what you hear please do get involved in the Union, as together we can offer a strong united front to put forward our views.
10
FORGE PRESS Friday September 19 2008
COMMENT
Lay off the Freshers - we’ve all been there
By Kyle Christie Whether you’re picking up this paper in a new building within an unfamiliar city for the first time or as a seasoned student hunkered down in your favourite corner of The Gallery, welcome and welcome back to Sheffield. For returning students, this time of year heralds not only reunions and reports of the summer, but the presence of a very obvious and unavoidable phenomenon in the arrival of the Freshers. To summarise the stereotype, first years are wide-eyed, somewhat naïve people who look implausibly young and can’t hold their drink.
You’ve come to university and some things are bound to change But in reality they’re just new in town, and whether or not you like the morality of it or not, a lot of people find a drink or two helps them to relax and make friends. This is accentuated by the fact that Freshers are instantly recognisable, be this by their tendency to move in ungainly packs, their compulsion for wearing their most expensive clothes everyday for the first fortnight and their staring up at
the top of the Arts Tower. All the while, us grizzled old students breeze past with perfect knowledge of the campus and a superior smirk, despite the feeling that our University has been at least temporarily taken over. It may happen every year, but for current students the intake of Freshers is always a source of mild frustration and cause for rolling of the eyes. However this is the very stereotype which deserves to be challenged, and for one primary and very obvious reason we all too easily forget, which is our previous existence as Freshers. Once we have got used to our area, established our friendships, haunts, and routines, our time as a Fresher is easily dismissed and not only because of our changing circumstances and priorities. With the benefit of hindsight, our experience in those first three months may bear little resemblance to our activities and outlook now, not to mention the insane jealousy we have of those starting this September who have many years at the University ahead of them. This is no justification to erase such a time from our university experience, and this is most essential in our dealings with the annual intake of Freshers. Sure, we don’t have to burst into The Edge with a beaming smile and offer to buy the first round
It’s easy to judge new arrivals but all students have been in this position. but, looking back at our time as a Fresher, we can be a friendly face for directions to Bar One or who to talk to at the department. To their credit, many students give up their time to help Freshers during the orientation period, ensuring a smooth transition into university life and a vital interaction with students beyond their fellow first years. Not that we should be cushioning first years too much. Now is the time for them to try new trends, new ideas and, yes, new drinks. There is no other way of saying it: you’ve come to university and some things are bound to change. It could be your hairstyle, it could be the newspaper you read or it could even be your religion. Despite your own preconceptions and the many introductory leaflets
to university life, significant personal developments can still take place with little warning. I recall one of my first lecturers saying: “Those of you in relationships with people outside the University: half of those will be over by Christmas.” Daunting, but plausible. It’s not a make or break era either. Out of the first people I spoke to at University, I can no longer remember many of the names or faces. Others are my housemates three years later, and that’s not something I could have predicted after the first month in halls. In Freshers week you could meet your future fiancé, friends for life or no-one who will be important to you come the end of the year there’s no real way of knowing.
Cartoon: Mark Mackay Don’t be surprised if you’re drawn in a totally different direction by having come to university, nor should you be bemused if you feel you haven’t changed; there’s no framework. So to Freshers: sure, you’ll get a bit lost, a tad drunk and occasionally homesick but this is the only time in your life you can walk up to anyone and strike up a conversation with them with no inhibitions or embarrassment. You’ll recite your name, hometown, course and A-level results (which, I’m afraid, noone will care about within three months) so often it’ll become a mantra. Put simply, being a Fresher is a unique experience you’ll never repeat and never forget, so get out of your room.
Calling time on the cheap chain pint in Broomhill
By Alex Orton The merry-go-round of Broomhill pub ownership is due to see a significant upheaval next month with the departure of the Scream chain from The York. This marks the end of a chain pub presence in the area. In most of the pubs in Broomhill it’s possible to get a pint of ale
that only just tops the two quid mark, but The York was just about the only bar to sell cheap lager. I was never greatly bothered by this because I was happy to drink ale as my facial hair grew out of control and I sat around bemoaning the fact that when I was a lad school kids could smoke, football teams weren’t hobbies for billionaires and nut cornflakes went crunch, not credit. However, many of my friends refused to leave the
house unless they could get four pints of Grolsch for a tenner, so the occasional trip to feed the corporate coffers was necessary. The Scream pubs (The South Sea was one too in my day) were generic, had sticky floors and the drinkers on the pre-clubbing warm-up tended to spill their pints on my clothes. But when compared to sitting at
home watching Channel 4’s 100 Easiest Ways To Make A Show Out Of Clips From Other Shows when skint, a pint at a cheap and rowdy pub is much more sociable.
The idea of a mission statement is absurd, they’re only selling beer I am in no way arguing that every time that I walk into the gents of a pub I should be able to tell what the more tipsy patrons had for dinner by looking at the mess that blocks the urinals, but people should have a choice of pub and it’s a shame that they no longer have a cheap, affordable option in Broomhill. Second to this issue is the somewhat pious way in which the
new proprietors are advertising their plans. Despite claims that their new pub will welcome students among its clientele the new owner’s online ‘mission statement’ says: “there is only one way to run a Pub...and that is not to suffer fools or idiots.” This seems to allude to The York’s Scream era customers; some were fools or idiots, but at least it kept them in one place. Still, most of the customers were just a bit boisterous at worst. Also the idea that a pub needs a mission statement is absurd; they’re only selling beer (hops that have decomposed in water), not putting a man on Mars. Although as a curmudgeonly old git trapped in a 21-year-old’s body I’ll probably find I really like the changed York.
FORGE PRESS Friday September 19 2008
Editorials Welcome to your new student paper May I take this opportunity to say a brief hello to our new students, and welcome back to continuing ones. Your student newspaper has undergone considerable changes during the summer, and this should be a very exciting year for the entire student media team at the University of Sheffield. Student media output has converged under the umbrella brand of Forge Media. This means that when www.forgetoday.com launches on Monday, September
22, you will be able to access content from Forge Press along with radio shows from Forge Radio, news from Forge TV, and exclusive web articles and podcasts, all in one place. There will be plenty of space for your comments, so please tell us what you think. Forge Media is always looking for contributors, so whatever you want to get involved with, do come along to the Forge Media stand at the Activities Fair and register your interest.
Bursary scheme improvements It is pleasing to see that the University has taken the decision to update the way that it calculates bursaries for students in light of inconsistencies in its current system. In a financial climate which is making higher education increasingly difficult to fund, it is important to consider the different needs of students, and award bursaries on an effective, means-tested basis. This also obviates the problem, however minimal it may be, of students applying for places on priority courses because they know
that it is a nearly foolproof way of getting ‘free money’, whether they need it or not. These new measures will prevent the exploitation of the system and reallocate money to the students that really need it. The University has already taken a lead in widening participation amongst students from disadvantaged backgrounds, and provides a bursary of twice the Government-recommended minimum to students who may not ordinarily be able to go on to higher education.
Shrimps and Pell do us all proud The University of Sheffield has produced many fine and notable alumni, and it looks like there are more on the horizon. The achievements of students can often be lost between overused stereotypes, but the successes of Shrimps and Nina Pell represent an answer to those criticisms.
David Wetherill’s excellent showing at the Paralympics is something for our sports clubs to look to emulate this year. Equally we must not overlook our students with charitable ambitions, and the philanthropic motives of Felix Evans and Jack Marsh are truly commendable.
11
COMMENT
Give It A Go should be open to all at Endcliffe
By Liz Cameron Students both old and new are arriving in Sheffield expecting to be greeted by a packed programme of events to occupy their first few weeks. One particularly popular resource is the ever eclectic mix of activities on offer from the Give It A Go (GIAG) programme. Fans of GIAG will be disappointed as teething problems have left the new programme significantly from previous years. Accommodation and Campus Services (ACS) have taken the somewhat bewildering decision to withdraw many of the GIAG activities that were due to be held at student residencies including the shiny new facilities in the Endcliffe student village. Wine tasting, a postgraduate meal and a ceilidh are just some of the events that are off the menu for students wishing to broaden their interests this semester. ACS made the decision amidst worries about their licensing agreements at the residences and the reaction of the local community. The respective student residences each have their own events for their own residents and it is upon these events that a sense of community is founded. If anything, extra events at the various sites would bring more atmosphere as there would be further reasons for students to leave their rooms and get involved with their surroundings. In addition, many activities on the GIAG programme have been heavily promoted towards the first years who occupy most of the residencies and it is unlikely that flocks of second or third
The fun of belly dancing and wine tasting are only available at Endcliffe. year students would descend upon these sites for the relevant events. Even if they did, would it matter that some non-residents use the facilities at the student village for an hour or so a week? GIAG events held in the gym are open to non-gym members and yet there are no stroppy body-builders sulking by the entrance waiting for temporary users to leave. In my experience, all students regardless of year or residency, attend GIAG events to try new
activities and meet like-minded people. It’s unimaginable that a great divide will be created because some students have walked for two minutes to reach a venue while others have walked for 15. Whether they live in Opal One, Broomhill, or even commute from Leeds, all students remain part of the wider student community and it should be for this community that all the University’s excellent new facilities are made available.
But journalists at The Star are concerned that the loss of staff, especially those in Rotherham and Barnsley, will mean that the paper will have to cut the amount of news stories that they report on, meaning many issues may not be made public. The newspaper raises issues that affect all sorts of people living in the city, and is responsible for making locals aware of student problems, and vice versa. Being a student doesn’t mean living in your own little world, but in fact the University of Sheffield is very much part of a city and students
need to realise that they are part of a much wider community. Because of this it is important that students support the staff at The Star simply by taking a more active interest in the people who live here the whole year round and buying the local paper once in a while.
Cuts at The Star will be felt all around Sheffield
By Rosie Taylor To many students The Star, Sheffield’s local newspaper, is just a part of the local scenery in newsagents around the city. But as its staff prepare to strike over the loss of five senior editors and two local offices, why should we care? The Star is a local paper and it has supported the 50,000 students in Sheffield for many years. Recent student-friendly stories include
an exposé on dodgy landlords, information appeals for students who have been victims of crime and an article on the escalating costs of going to university in Sheffield. Students sometimes get the impression that The Star is a tabloid newspaper aimed at older and very ‘local’ readers, but a paper’s format does not mean its journalism is low quality. “The Star is the most valuable news-gathering operation in South Yorkshire,” said Mark Hanna, a University of Sheffield lecturer and Star journalist for nine years. “Within the resources that they have got, its journalists play an extremely important role in getting news from and to local communities. “We need local and regional papers to be strong because they do provide a voice for people. “The Star journalists given
redundancy notices are very experienced and The Star needs that experience,” he said. Although The Star and its owners, Johnston Press, are running at a profit the company believes it can reduce expenditure by cutting the Business Editor, Pictures Editor, production
Students need to realise that they are part of a wider community manager and correspondents for Barnsley and Rotherham. Local newspaper circulation is falling and The Star’s fell by six percent last year. “Industrial action is not going to be helpful to anyone concerned, readers, staff or journalists,” said Malcolm Vickers, director of Human Resources at Johnston Press.
12
ADVERTISEMENT
FORGE PRESS Friday September 19 2008
FORGE PRESS Friday September 19 2008
13
FEATURES
These violent delights have violent ends By Daniel Baird In the late 20th and early 21st centuries debate has arisen regularly on the subject of our society’s desensitisation to violence. It is often questioned what the boundaries of acceptability are when images of human suffering are shown on televised news, whether it has been lifeless corpses in wartorn nations or commercial jets striking major buildings. In the case of the latter, the images were shown live on several news channels. The frequent and passive witnessing of real moments of death has undoubtedly created an audience that is numb to violence that does not directly affect them. This desensitisation where real events are concerned is certainly linked to movies and video games, which compete with news networks with regards to giving the public what the producers of each medium believe we desire. What is most significant is that, disturbingly, the lines between reality and fantasy seem increasingly blurred. Many people who attempted to put what they witnessed of the September 11 atrocities into words could only explain how far from reality the scenes appeared, stating that it was like watching a Hollywood movie. Action films spend millions on special effects to make violent scenes more realistic, with the latest of Christopher Nolan’s Batman series the most recent to come under scrutiny. A sinister offering, The Dark Knight follows the tone of its predecessor, and the acclaim that Nolan has received in his solemn interpretation of the comic book highlights what contemporary critics and audiences want from their summer blockbusters. The most light-hearted moment in the film draws nervous amusement around the theatre as Heath Ledger’s Joker makes an upright pencil “disappear” by slamming an anonymous henchman’s face into it. Michael Caine’s line in the film (in which he states: “Some men just want to watch the world burn”) is an unnerving idea and is certainly true of a small minority outside of fiction. Increasingly, a c t i o n
films offer audiences the type of unsavoury humour made popular by Quentin Tarantino. As great as many of his films have been, a world saturated with Tarantinos is a disturbing prospect. One could also argue that the James Bond films have got steadily darker over the last few decades. Long gone are the lighthearted, although admittedly cringe-worthy, quips of the Roger Moore era. The Bond of Casino Royale (2006) has a gritty, ruthless streak and no qualms about murdering a man in mid-sentence. This merciless behaviour is even prior to having his heart broken and coming to within inches of having his manhood whipped away from him by a couple of feet of thick rope. It is unlikely that a humane, light-hearted and joke-cracking Bond will appear on the big screen in the new release this autumn. Video games have also caused great concern in relation to our engagement with violence and this year’s Grand Theft Auto IV is a case in point. I distinctly remember my former housemate sat before a console last year begrudgingly admitting that it was “a bit too realistic”, before stabbing an innocent truck driver (within the plot of the game, that is). In the months following that brief conversation Grand Theft Auto IV was taken off the shelves in Thailand after a teenager confessed to murdering a taxi driver. The 18-year-old student stands accused of stabbing the man to death in imitation of a scene from the game. Having restarted the discussion again over the summer my exhousemate went on to comment on the game with stark honesty: “It affects the way I drive and it makes me more violent. In the wrong hands it would turn someone into a criminal.” That would appear to be true in the extreme cases but such a confession from an educated and principally mild-mannered young man underlines the effect that various media can have on people. High profile incidents, supposedly related to obsessive interaction with video games, have occurred in the UK in recent years. Most notable was former accounting student Stuart Harling who was found guilty of murdering a nurse who was on her cigarette break behind St. George’s Hospital in Hornchuch in 2006. Harling spent whole days immersed in incredibly violent video games, including Manhunt, which has been banned in certain countries. Harling’s mother felt the video games were largely responsible for the teenager’s sudden violence. Defence psychiatrists involved in the case argued that Harling was suffering from mental instability at the time of the murder. The prosecution rejected the claims whilst revealing that he had never visited a mental
health professional prior to the murder and had not raised any serious concerns from the people who knew him. Whatever the truth of his condition, Harling’s behaviour was certainly affected by how he spent his spare time as he became oblivious to the evil of violence. We live in a world which is certainly more civilised and less violent when compared with the most insalubrious moments of human history. In truth, the fact that concerns are raised so often about violence in society and depictions of it in various mediums demonstrates how far humanity has come. In the majority we are not brutal animals who would numbly tolerate severed heads on spikes atop castle turrets. Media such as film, television and video games are principally harmless forms of escapism and will only have a strong influence on extremely vulnerable and impressionable individuals. This, however, does not mean that we should not stop to contemplate violence in our society or regularly consider what is acceptable in escapism. The movie business and computer games industry often suggest that they can become scapegoats for issues within society but they should indeed be constantly aware that they have a social responsibility.
14
FORGE PRESS Friday September 19 2008
FORGE PRESS Friday September 19 2008
15
FEATURES
FEATURES
Well rounded on
Forge Press meets Karl Pilkingt
“I watched a centipede kill and eat a mouse the other day. Things like that worry me.” Karl’s new book, Karlology (above), is published on October 1. Karl shot to fame on the Ricky Gervais Show podcast (below).
By Ciaran Jones Karl Pilkington has mumbled his way into the British consciousness in recent years with his appearances alongside Stephen Merchant and Ricky Gervais. In their series of podcasts, the likeable Mancunian voiced earnest opinions on subjects ranging from the difficulty of eating marsupial genitals at breakfast to being a lonely astronaut. Ahead of the release of his latest book, Karl welcomes the students of Sheffield into the inner workings of his mind. You’ve become an absolute phenomenon – how does that sit with you? Because you seem such a ‘normal’ (if you’ll pardon the expression), easy going bloke considering your status… Anyone can get on the internet. People seem to be into listening or watching daft stuff on the internet that they wouldn’t bother with if it was on the TV or radio. One of the most watched things on YouTube at the moment is a baby biting its brother’s finger. I’m worried that might give Ricky ideas. Nowt’s changed really, it just means now and again someone I don’t know stops me to say hello. You often say that a paper round was the best job you’ve ever had – what’s the worst, and why? Probably having to help out at an old people’s home. Me primary school used to send a few kids to help out handing out biscuits and serving tea. I only got picked to do it ’cos me nails looked good ’cos I didn’t bite them. It was okay at first but then a few mental patients were added into the home and I didn’t like dealing with them. Some of them had real problems and there was me trying to cheer them up with a packet of Jammie Dodgers. Ricky is always giving you a hard time, whether it’s about the shape of your head or about the fact that you don’t like doing favours for other people – how do fans and members of the public treat you? What are the best and worst experiences you’ve had with fans?
I ain’t had any bad ones. A woman invited me to the ballet in Covent Garden once. I didn’t go though. What about other celebrities? I understand you’ve got a few celebrity pals employed with the book. I can’t see you being too fussed about wider celebrity culture though… Any good anecdotes? Nah. I don’t understand the attraction people have in it either. I don’t know why people are into reading that ‘spotted’ section in Heat magazine to find out what famous people are up to. If it was Stephen Hawking seen dancing the night away in Tiger Tiger then fair enough, it’s a news story, but Lily Allen in a bar in Soho? You’re well known for saying what you think – do you think that the world would be a better place if everyone was equally honest? I think there would be less junk mail. I’m always getting post telling me I can get cheaper car insurance and stuff but when I call they can never give it me. Your fascination with science and learning is also welldocumented – what in the world, news, documentaries or discoveries, is really interesting you at the moment? What is your opinion on the evolution debate? I watched a centipede kill and eat a mouse the other day. Things like that worry me. Everything seems to be becoming more violent and we’re going softer. We don’t have use for our wisdom teeth anymore and more of us are becoming veggie and yet you’ve got a centipede eating a mouse. I had a wasp nick some chicken off me plate once! What is going on? You’ve said before that you would overhaul the education system because children have to learn too much stuff that isn’t relevant; what would you do if you were in charge of the national curriculum? Would you abolish any subjects, or add any new ones? I just think kids should use their imagination more rather than just being told stuff. The way it’s going there will be no new contestants on the Dragons’ Den soon cos no one will be thinking of new stuff, they’ll
just all be repeating Shakespeare and stuff. What about universities, and the student population, what do you think of them? I imagine being a student is like being on X Factor. You’re all after the same sort of job but there’s only so many jobs. I didn’t go to uni but I think it can get in the way. It must restrict you a little bit ’cos if you’ve spent years learning about something you can’t just jack it in and go onto something else can you? Plus if I was really good at something that most people aren’t, I’d feel like I had a duty to stick to it. Like if I was a really good surgeon but wanted to become a juggler in a circus I’d feel like I couldn’t. Coming back to Ricky – where would you be if you hadn’t met him and Steve? And where would they be? I’d probably still be at Xfm radio where I met them. They’d be doing what they’re doing but Ricky’s phone bill wouldn’t be as expensive as he wouldn’t be calling me every five minutes asking me what I’m doing. Have they had much involvement with the book? No. I don’t want them to tell me it doesn’t make sense or that I’m talking nonsense. That’s the good thing with doing a book, no one gets involved. I write down what I’m thinking and then it get’s printed. Tell me about the book… What’s in it? Why should I buy it/shoplift it/put it on my Christmas list/toddle down to the library and borrow a copy? It’s just a book about me educating meself after leaving school with just an E in History by going round to art galleries and museums to see what I can learn. I think most people would call it a toilet book. I don’t mind that though as everyone uses the toilet so it ain’t a bad thing. How does it differ from Happyslapped By A Jellyfish? It’s a book so how different can it be? Plus I’m not that good with words so it’s probably the
same words but telling a different story or thought. It is similar but JK Rowling got away with doing the same sort of stuff didn’t she? If you were escaping from your flat as it burned down, what would you save? I doubt I’d save anything. I pay enough for insurance every year so I may as well let the lot burn. I’ve always had problems with the boiler and leaks though so I doubt this flat will ever burn as it’s too damp. If you had to have either both of your arms amputated or both of your legs amputated, which would you take and why? Someone once told me that if you look after your legs you’ll always be okay ’cos while you can walk you’ll always have a good heart and not put on weight, but I still reckon I’d get rid of the legs before me arms. The world looks after people in wheelchairs more than the armless. They get ramps and big toilets on trains and special areas on buses but armless people get nowt. Maybe this is ’cos it’s hard to look angry and get a point across when you ain’t got arms to wave about. I’d get rid of me left arm and left leg. Me left arm only ever passes stuff to me right arm and me left leg has got a trapped nerve in it so it would solve that problem. What would you do if you were Prime Minister? I’d have a normal lock put on the door of Number 10. I’ve heard that you can only open the door to 10 Downing Street from the inside. Why? It’s an accident waiting to happen that. I bet that’s why the Government ain’t got any money for the NHS, they have to keep
calling out a locksmith every other day. They charge about £80 a time just for call out them people. What would you do if you were invisible for a day? I’d hate it. I think it’s a horrible superpower. If you can’t be seen what’s the point. I was reading the other day about a fish that is invisible/see through and is also blind. If you can’t see AND can’t be seen what’s the point in existing? The podcasts are coming back, aren’t they? What can fans expect this time around? There are some new ones coming out on September 16. It’s the same stuff as we’ve done from day one. Just chatting about thoughts and that. We can’t finish without checking – how’s your Auntie Nora? She’s alright. I took her on one of me days out for me book to that bodies exhibition where they have all body parts and waxed dead bodies on show. Some of ’em were in better condition than her. She’s just had a new knee put in one of her legs. I’ll tell her you asked. Karlology by Karl Pilkington is published by DK on Wednesday, October 1, priced £12.99. UK residents can buy the book at the special offer price of £9.99 (including free P&P), call the DK Bookshop on 08700 707717 quoting the reference ‘DK/Karlology’, as well as the book’s ISBN (9781405333351). Offer is subject to availability, and can take up to 14 days. Read Karl’s blog at www.karlology.co.uk.
16
ADVERTISEMENT
FORGE PRESS Friday September 19 2008
FORGE PRESS Friday September 19 2008
17
FEATURES By Kate Dobinson Fresh out of Mountview Academy at 23 (in fact, I catch him on the way back from his graduation ceremony) Chris Carswell has landed his professional debut as 16-year-old Joe Casey in the vibrant touring production of Our House, the Madness musical. Boasting Gwyneth Strong (Only Fools and Horses) and original X Factor winner Steve Brookstein in the cast, Our House is set to pit stop at Sheffield’s Lyceum Theatre on Tuesday, September 23. Prior to meeting with Carswell I was curious as to the kind of box this newly-appointed ‘actor’ might fit into.
I was curious what kind of box the newly-appointed ‘actor’ would fit into Obviously it was all too easy to assume that he could be deposited alongside the stereotypical images that have cast long shadows over the industry and its insiders. Would he be struggling and despondent or successful and conceited? I wondered if he could deviate from these roles so gleefully accredited to actors by the media. Clearly tales of theatrical flamboyance had left me with misapprehensions, for Carswell matches neither stereotype; quite the contrary. He certainly looks the part; ruffled black locks and furrowed eyebrows staring at just the right intensity above some faintly designer stubble. But Carswell is more than his mellifluous headshot would suggest. With a hearty laugh he’s keen to poke fun at himself as “a bit of a big kid really.” So it wasn’t as difficult to play a character seven years his junior? “Psychologically no and physically no because I have a young face and lots of energy but it was a difficult part to cast because you need somebody adaptable; they need to be able to portray Joe’s progression from the age of 16 to 21.” In a plot reminiscent of Sliding Doors, the fantastically charged Madness hits craft a tale of the two possible fates that Joe may encounter, having broken into a building site to impress his girlfriend Sarah.
Madness’ hits brilliantly convey the tale of integrity and morality Uplifting classics including pop favourites ‘My Girl’, ‘Wings of a Dove’, ‘Baggy Trousers’, ‘House of Fun’, ‘Driving in My Car’ and of course, ‘It Must Be Love’, brilliantly convey the tale of integrity and morality and strike a chord with the student demographic as Joe explores his options at an age of change and progression. Does Carswell still perceive himself as a student now that he’s found widespread critical acclaim as an artiste? “Student doesn’t quite have the same ring to it, does it?” he says. Is it surprising that he’s ready to lose the lifestyle and the atmosphere of university life? Enthusiastically he tells me he has a girlfriend, a new place and great housemates but is ready to set out on a new path. “I still see friends from Mountview but I suppose touring makes it difficult. “My career can be fairly
restrictive at times and rehearsals are hugely demanding.” Whilst few students relish the intensive routine, Carswell remains unruffled. “In Glasgow the cast all lived close and we were let out of our cages every now and again.” His fellow cast is littered with well-known personalities, and their experience can only be beneficial for someone just starting out. “I learnt a lot from Gwyneth Strong and Steve Brookstein and they help to draw the crowds in to see the show.” So would he be frustrated to find roles taken by big a name before he has had the chance to even audition for them? “It is harder for people trying to get jobs; there are so many people who want them and so few parts.” This is surely a relevant and worrying point for young and gifted actors and their futures as they graduate from university with loans to pay and ambitions to fulfil. Last year London producers were interested in transferring a Sheffield production of The Cherry Orchard to the West End. However, when Joanna Lumley could not commit they backed out from the idea, indicating that lesser known names simply won’t shift seats. What with David Beckham: The Musical in the pipeline it appears that celebrity is jarring uncomfortably with the already unpredictable nature of the business.
Oh what fun he had Chris Carswell describes his life on the stage
Shakespeare? That’s real grafting. I don’t find it the easiest “Other London shows might not necessarily make such good choices and will be in it ‘just for the name’ but that will not always be the case and raw talent will exist and succeed.” Carswell has obviously proved that such prejudices are not always pertinent, having struck lucky on his first try. He plays down his achievement: “It’s easier for guys because there are more roles.” Seemingly unaware of his fledgling stardom, he thought about studying graphic design before deciding instead to submit to a gruelling regime at Mountview. However it appears this system is working as Carswell tells me an impressive 60 per cent of graduates were in jobs already having just left the academy. “It was eight until six most days, 12- hour days and lots of shows in the third year. You need the discipline. An education at Mountview is more than just learning your lines and trying not to bump into the furniture.” Our House is directed by the esteemed Matthew Warchus, the man responsible for the elaborate stage spectacle Lord of the Rings, and choreographed by Peter Darling, brains behind the smash hit Billy Elliot.
Chris Carswell (above foreground) as Joe Casey in Our House: the Madness musical. Below left: the cast.
My career can be restrictive, rehearsals are very demanding Surely a daunting prospect for Carswell? “Well it’s rare to work with the original team but at my first audition, I was there with my mate and he said that the Matthew Warchus was sitting there to audition us, but he was with a few other people and I didn’t even know who he was, let alone what he looked like.” What is he like? “A calm man,
very reserved.” Carswell does not appear to be intimidated, but excited and comfortable to be working with the top people. What’s next for Chris: Shakespeare, perhaps? “That’s real grafting,” he grimaces, “I
don’t find it the easiest but I like a challenge.” Maybe panto? “Well; no. Maybe television after, some short films, I’ll try to open those doors. They say that Our House is the Hamlet of musical theatre, so maybe
everything will be a walk in the park after this.” Our House is showing at the Sheffield Lyceum theatre from Tuesday, September 23, to Saturday, September 27.
18
ADVERTISEMENT
FORGE PRESS Friday September 19 2008
FORGE PRESS Friday September 19 2008
19
FEATURES
Nagra’s poetry performances are powerful, incorporating both Asian and South Yorkshire accents as he scrutinises Britain.
By Ciaran Jones Punglish poet and witty wordsmith Daljit Nagra is a man steadily on the up. Since winning the Forward Poetry Prize for best individual entry with ‘Look We Have Coming To Dover!’ in 2004, Nagra’s name has gained an increasing currency in Britain’s literary circuit. He attributes this in part to his family history, having grown up in “a typical migrant home…a big lively household” in west London, and later Sheffield. “I’m probably one of the few people from an Asian background who writes in British poetry so immediately you’ve got people aware of the name and people are probably going to be interested in which part of the world you’re from,” he says, “and in a sense it’s probably a bit of a letdown that I come from northwest London and
I was really aiming to crowd in as many voices as possible I lived in Sheffield for about ten years so they’re my kind of two home places I guess, rather than the Middle East or Asia. “But having that dual identity at the same time, being British but also being Asian, I was very aware and I wanted to write about that. I wanted to write about the Asian identity because partly I don’t feel it’s been written much about in English poetry anyway and so it felt important for me to inject that bit of context.” Throughout his debut collection Look We Have Coming To Dover!, published by Faber last year, Nagra infuses his poems with characters and identities by parodying accents. He blends Asian mimicry with imitation of working class Sheffielders, making his regular live readings entertaining and, at times, controversial: he has been criticised by Asians for some of his renderings. The poet himself, though, argues that it is a matter of representation. “I think, with doing the Yorkshire voice, it felt right to me
The Punglish poet with the Yorkshire voice to mimic the Yorkshire voice in the poem [‘Parade’s End’]. I could have written it in the third person and detached it a bit but I really like the idea of it. In performance I want to do it like a bad Yorkshire voice, sort of like an Indian man trying to do a Yorkshire accent and just play with that notion of representation. “I guess with the Indian voices in particular they’re probably over the top accents anyway when I read it. It’s because I want to refract the poems via 1970s comedies like Love Thy Neighbour and Mind Your Language and you’ve got people like Peter Sellers as well who are blacking up as Asians and when I was growing up, Asians were always presented as being really stupid and had really thick accents, so I want to go via that experience to the present.” But the imitative, performative aspects of the poetry create one very tricky caveat: whether we are supposed to read (and, indeed, hear) the Asian voices as Asian people speaking English in a stereotyped accent, or as Punjabi in simultaneous translation with English. “That’s what I was really wanting to play with,” says the poet, who also works as an English teacher at secondary school in London. “I guess like with ‘Darling & Me!’, for example, it’s really difficult to know whether the
person is talking in Punjabi to his wife or if he’s talking in English, because why would he be talking in English anyway? There’s a few [poems] like that I guess, but it’s partly for me really, to give me licence to use an artificial voice and I could then experiment with language.
“So in a sense it’s a translation of a voice which might well be Punjabi but it might not be, they might be speaking English. But if it is a translation, you can’t do word for word translations because it would be nonsense and it would sound quite flat, so it is
an artificial translation anyway, so you might ham it up even more. I just want to capture the spirit of the exchange between the people.” The exchanges we see are lively, wryly comical, but also threatening at times. The anthology bleeds from topic to topic, delivering a satisfying equilibrium. “I was really aiming to crowd in as many voices as possible so that we get a different perspective on similar issues,” says Nagra. “For example, [the poem] ‘Arranged Marriage’… I want to really try and peg down the Sikh, Punjabi community in particular and hopefully that’s metaphorical of other communities… Don’t forget that people like me, if we’re remotely successful, will be seen as kind of boastful for Asian people anyway and one thing I wanted to do was play around with the impossibility, even in one community, of getting a kind of consensus on anything.” The collection seems to be a series of vignettes, a subtle and brief glance through a window into different cultures and communities. “At the time of writing the book, I was probably aware of the global community as it were and how India and England were getting closer together, it was getting easier to get there. Also the book is set in the 1970s to some degree and I want to bring those kind of different experiences
Photo: Sarah Lee (copyright) together.” But it is not always easy to read. The vocalised racism and physical violence of ‘Yobbos!’ is counterpoised with the psychological turmoil of ‘In A White Town’, and it is clear that the issues Nagra raises are not black against white, or British versus Asian. The issues he raises
He blends Asian mimicry with imitation of working class Sheffielders are “endemic to all cultures…I guess it would have been a bit too easy and too obvious to write about black/white issues because what you end up doing is writing about Asian victims and white aggressors, which is a really simplistic, naïve portrait.” Instead we have a collection which alludes to current social and global issues (‘X’, for instance, which invokes Sangatte detention centre and Guantanamo Bay, but alludes back to the sus laws and Irish rights issues in the 1970s too, according to Nagra) but also provides us a snapshot of the difficulty of a migrant background, of assimilating two cultures. We discuss the problem of integration and the guilt of leaving behind culture, and it is clearly something which has permeated this fascinating collection. “I’ve felt some of that that myself,” Nagra tells me, “and I know some other people have felt it very badly and come out very badly of an experience in a community where people draw divisive lines and make them very tangible to you… You are surrounded by people and there’s always someone in your family, I think, or several people who draw those lines, whether about class, about marriage, about race, and we always have to negotiate those, don’t we? And it’s so difficult to capture the strain of that so maybe we’re not always comfortable reading.” Daljit Nagra is reading at The Lantern Theatre in Nether Edge on Saturday, October 25, as part of the Off The Shelf Literary Festival.
20
FORGE PRESS Friday September 19 2008
LIFESTYLE
Freshers’ fashion: style, shops and fancy dress By Vicky Shaw & Imogen Child You’ve all read in magazines and seen on the television this season’s new trends and I am sure your wardrobes are bursting with new purchases. However here is another reason to hit the shops; to kick off your new life as a University of Sheffield student. You can perfect that student look before your bank balance resembles that of a student too. When it comes to Freshers’ fashion, I think the most exciting thing is diversity. Moving to university gives you the opportunity to change, experiment, or just be yourself. That is the beauty of it; you don’t have to feel constrained by other people’s perceptions of you, because no one knows you yet. I am not saying you have to plan who you are in advance and buy a whole new wardrobe to match, I‘m just saying that you have the chance to evolve or digress if you want to. A big part of university is growing up, maturing and finding yourself. I found it liberating just to be the slob that I am and go out in my slippers and shock horror...no make-up! This may seem a little pathetic, but when you get in the habit of always wearing the stuff, the thought of letting people see you without your mask can be a little daunting.
A big part of university is growing up, maturing and finding yourself
Hot or not?
There are however, a few hints and tips when it comes to ‘Freshers’ fashion’ that I will try to pass on to you. There is nothing easier than a nice, comfortable hoodie to wear on those frosty winter mornings when you’ve been out late the night before an early lecture. No doubt in your first year you will spend lots of time lounging around your room and so you need something to wear that is roomier
than jeans but a little more substantial than pyjamas for when your flatmates come calling. The solution? Invest in some baggy, slouchy trousers such as tracksuit bottoms: they will be a worthwhile investment. It is especially important that these items are comfy because they will see you through days lounging about watching TV and long hours spent revising at the IC. Like most of the United Kingdom in Sheffield it rains a lot so an umbrella is an essential. You will constantly find yourself out and about, walking to and from lectures, so when the heavens open and the rain begins to pour stick by your umbrella at all times. The“drowned rat” look is never a good one. Whilst exploring your new home town you should be lucky enough to discover Sheffield’s shopping gems and boutiques. Head down to Division Street for a variety of quirky shops by independent retailers.
Sometimes the best outfits for themed nights are created at the last minute Ark is a particular student favourite for day and night wear. Also explore The Forum which covers every taste from vintage to gothic to hippy. Head further out of town and into Broomhill where you we are sure you will find something to tickle your fancy. Party Line and Mooch are great little shops if you are after a present for someone or just a treat for yourself. Never ignore any charity shops that you may stumble across on your travels. They are cheap and a good way to help a lot of worthwhile causes. Take inspiration from Gok’s Fashion Fix and release your creative side. Customise that old dress into a unique style statement. Charity shops are a cheap and fun way to expand your wardrobe. If you want a serious shopping session make a day of it and take the twenty minute tram journey to
Meadowhall Shopping Centre. This is an indoor shopping centre and has all the well known shops such as Topshop, H&M and good old student favourite Primark. There are lots of cafés and restaurants where you can take a well-earned break from all that retail therapy. One thing that is ridiculously good fun about being a student is that you will find yourself trying to create fancy dress costumes on
Why not customise that old dress into a unique style statement? what seems like a weekly basis. Corporation is popular for the infamous school disco on a Wednesday night and new club night Roar at the Union is also themed. If you want to plan ahead and buy your fancy dress outfit check out the Studio Shop in the Student Union which sells a few fancy dress items, face paint, masks and hats. It’s a convenient first port of call when creating your ensemble. Then you have specialist fancy dress shops on Ecclesall Road, as well as Festival of Fun, Party City and Party On which are all on Division Street, and of course check out Primark and charity shops for cheap clothes you can cut up, colour in and stick things on. Half the fun of fancy dress is trying to cobble together an outfit out of tinfoil and your flatmates’ wardrobes. When it comes to other themed nights sometimes the best outfits are created at the last minute. So there you have it, my words of wisdom. But to be honest the best advice I can give is just to be you. University can be an extremely exciting yet daunting experience. You have lots of new experiences what with new lectures, new people, new places and the joyous task of learning how to cook (I’m still working on that one). Don’t spend time worrying about how you look. This is a time where you can experiment with your style and most importantly have fun with fashion.
A selection of shops and boutiques on Division Street.
60 second student Harriet Morse, 20, is a second year Dentistry student currently living in Crookes.
Size 10 The new ‘It’ body shape. With celebrities like Mischa Barton moving from a waif size six to a shapely size 10 lets hope this healthy new size is here to stay. Verdict: Hot.
Peaches Geldof She married her boyfriend of a month, overdosed on cocaine and turns up to any party going. And then she moans all the time about how terrible her life is. Pixie all the way. Verdict: Not.
Vice Magazine The new teen bible. With explicit imagery and bolshy prose, there are controls over where Vice can be stocked. See the hype in The Forum on Devonshire Street. Verdict: Hot.
If you could project yourself into the past, where would you go? Back to the beginning of time so I could sort out this God nonsense once and for all. What do you consider the greatest threat to mankind? George Bush.
Do you have any tattoos and piercings? Definitely no tattoos but both ears pierced. I don’t like pain. What were you doing at midnight last night? Sleeping and dreaming about Chuck Bass from Gossip Girl. If you were a professional wrestler, what would your ring name be? Misty Maneater
FORGE PRESS Friday September 19 2008
21
LIFESTYLE
Controlling finance the student way
Making your halls homely
By Bethan Hill
By Sarah Barns
It’s likely that by the time you arrive in Sheffield to commence your studies you are already the proud owner of a nice, shiny student bank account. However, if this is not the case be selective in your choice of account. It is not necessarily the best option to just stay with your current bank because it’s easier. Some banks offer ‘perks’ to attract you to them. One of the best is a Young Persons Railcard, as over the course of the your time at university you will save a small fortune from getting rail fares at up to one third less than the general public. Try not to be lured by perks such as MP3 players. Speaking from experience, they don’t always materialise. You should also beware of the overdraft of your account. Most importantly, make sure that it is interest-free, as many students rely on their overdrafts, especially towards the end of term before the next loan instalment arrives.
First things first: make your bed. A student’s bed is used for everything from sleeping, sitting, eating and jumping on. Get some jazzy colourful bedding to spruce up the drabness of the room. Invest in some pillows for maximum comfort. Why the University decides to paint every single room a boring magnolia instead of a nice fuchsia colour is beyond me but sticking a few posters and photos up will instantly make you feel a lot more at home. The Union has a weekly poster sale where you can get your hands on all kind of weird and wonderful pictures. Another simple way of decorating your room is by getting a colourful rug. You can get them cheaply from a variety of places such as Primark and Argos. Head down to Wilkinson and get yourself a table lamp and a bean bag. They help give a more ‘homey’ atmosphere to the room and the bean bag can be used as extra seating for all these new friends you are going to make. Get yourself a plant; they don’t take up much room and add a fresh smell to the stuffiness that fills most rooms. It can also give you something to talk to in times of despair. Don’t forget to water it as a dead lifeless brown heap counteracts the benefits and beauty of a plant. Most rooms come already equipped with a notice board. Store all important things on it like your lecture times, tickets, and bus timetables. This way you’ll know where important things are when you are in a hurry. Finally, stick something on your door. It represents who you are so decorate it accordingly. Leaving your door open in the first few days will seem more inviting and will help you meet your new friends.
Burying your head in the sand is never good. There’s always help if you need it Also make sure that your overdraft isn’t too big. The temptation of all that accessible money could leave you in more debt than you care to be in. Now, once you’ve got the account sorted and the money coming in, you need to work out how best to spend it. Once the first instalment of your loan has been paid into your account, try not to believe that this makes you rich beyond your wildest dreams. It doesn’t. It has to last for the whole term. It’s best to work out how many weeks you need the money to last for and budget accordingly.
Explore a variety of banks to get the best deal for your money. However, in my experience, certain things account for more money being spent than you would expect. For example, if you’re living in catered halls, you will most likely still be spending money on food. Half of the time you won’t want to drag yourself out of bed at 7am to make the allotted time for breakfast, and so you will need to fork out for your own food essentials each week. This doesn’t mean you can’t have fun though. If you want to eat out, you can, just look for great deals. Lunchtime specials are particularly purse-friendly, offering the same food at reduced prices. For self-catering students: don’t be seduced by the BOGOF. You
will more often than not just waste food. A great idea is to share these deals and split the cost. And share essentials like tea bags and milk with flatmates.
Try not to be lured by perks such as MP3 players; they don’t always materialise You will also find it possible to socialise on a budget. The University has many societies with only small membership fees, which allow you to meet people and have fun on the cheap. But most of all just be aware of your finances. Burying your head in the sand is never good. There’s always help if you need it.
Lifestyle Review: Lynne’s Pantry
Photo: Helen Munro
By Kari Bremner For those of you who believe a cup of tea will solve anything, Lynne’s Pantry is your spiritual home. There are branches situated on Glossop Road and Surrey Street, the latter which is en-route to the train station and not quite in Hallam territory (but more than
worth the pilgrimage into town). Bypass the limp sandwiches of Starbucks and head to Lynne’s for a more authentically Sheffield experience and food that will keep the longing for your Mum’s cooking at bay. The toasted cheese sandwich deserves special mention, dripping in butter with cheese an inch thick; Lynne knows how to do comfort food. For the more adventurous diner traditional Yorkshire sandwich fillings are on offer such as ‘potted meat’ which I myself have not plucked up the courage to try. If this isn’t tempting enough then the cafe’s scrummy homemade cakes should do the trick. A spot of afternoon tea escapism will do wonders for that persistent Freshers’ Week hangover; swap your ibuprofen for the soothing tinkling of china and the dulcet tones of Sheffield tea drinkers. But make it there for an early lunch, around 1pm, as the café gets very busy at that time when Lynne’s disciples descend upon the place.
Sophie, a waitress at Lynne’s Pantry.
Photos: Helen Munro
22
FORGE PRESS Friday September 19 2008
LIFESTYLE
Sex & Relationships: Does absence make the heart grow fonder? By Anonymous
I’d guess that around half of us come to university in a relationship. Many of whom find ourselves quickly growing apart from our partner. When we were at home it was perfect, convenient. So why is it that upon arrival we reassess our situation after a few weeks into the term? Is university this bubble of absolute independence that instils a craving for the single life within us? It’s Freshers’ week; the pub crawls and the debauchery have begun and everyone is up for “anything” it seems. Is this an environment that can really sustain a long distance relationship? Some may soon start to regret that you can’t take full advantage of the infamous week. (Use your imagination to extrapolate what I mean by “full advantage”). However, if you believe your relationship to be stronger than lust for a drunken fresher, stick with it. The first few weeks are the hardest; the temptations on offer as well as the appeal of living alone have just hit you, and both may serve to push that special person out of your mind. On the other hand, if you both practice trust, patience and understanding for one and other from the start it will form the strong foundations needed for a long distance relationship to work. Though remember; university is all about being outside one’s comfort zone, so never stay together because it’s “comfortable”. If your relationship doesn’t work out, please don’t get too down. Desperation for a relationship to survive can leave you unfulfilled and sad. So just relax and enjoy the time alone, as after all, the other half of us aren’t doing too badly!
Student health: sex, drugs, rock and roll By Bethan Hill Life as a student throws many exciting challenges at you. You’re entering a different environment and meeting new people. However, at this time it’s important not to neglect your health, as without it you won’t enjoy your new experiences nearly as much as you could. Here are Lifestyle’s tips on how to protect your health: Exercise When you first become a student life seems rather hectic, what with all the socialising, sleeping and, of course, studying you have to cram in. So much so, that exercise can often be put to the bottom of the list. There’s also the problem of money. As a cash-strapped student, you may not be willing to fork out for a pricey gym membership. However, it is important to try and fit in some kinds of exercise, for several reasons. Firstly, exercise is great for your mind. We all know that exercise releases endorphins (which are the happy chemicals) into the brain. Therefore what better way to reduce exam stress and pressure? Exercise is also important for maintaining a healthy weight. Whether it’s from eating stodgy halls of residence food, or from drinking calorific alcohol, it can be easy to gain weight when you go to university. So, what exercise could you be doing? There’s a huge variety of sports societies you can join, and playing team games is a fun way of exercising, as well as meeting people and making friends. If the gym doesn’t appeal to you, why not try an exercise class, or
something low impact like pilates or swimming? The NHS recommends that you aim for 30 minutes of exercise five times a week. So if you live at the top of one of Sheffield’s seven hills, a power walk home will constitute part of your exercise session. In addition to this all you need to do is small things, like taking the stairs instead of the lift or getting off the bus a stop early. You can even fit exercise into your night out. Instead of sitting in a pub drinking, why not head out and dance all night? If you feel you’re struggling for time, try exercising first thing in the morning, or go for 15 minute walks between sessions of study. The bottom line is to do something fun. You’re far more likely to stick at it this way. Alcohol NHS studies have shown that students are more likely to drink to excess than the general population. This can be down to cheap alcohol, the freedom of living away from home and the general drinking culture among students.
It’s really not good to wake up and not remember the previous night However, excessive drinking can put you at risk in the short term as well as the long term because your judgement is temporarily lowered. A less severe consequence is a lack of concentration, and a negative effect on your studies. Apart from that, it’s really not good to wake up and not remember the previous night. It’s embarrassing, but also very worrying. The NHS recommends that
Rachel Hardy, from the University Health Service. women keep to a maximum of 14 alcohol units a week, and men stick to a maximum of 21. They also suggest that you have two or three alcohol free days per week. Sexual Health The sexual health of young people is a well-publicised area of concern. Last year, half of the new cases of STIs diagnosed were among 16 to 24-year-olds. One in 10 young people is believed to have chlamydia, but you also need protection from other infections such as gonorrhoea and so it’s important to protect yourself. The safest way to do this is to always use condoms. You can get them free from family planning and sexual health clinics, so you don’t even need to pay to be safe. Just make sure they carry the British Kite Mark or European CE mark. It can be worrying learning about risks to your sexual health, but just be sure to stay safe. If you think something might be wrong you should visit your doctor to be sure. If you want more information on sexual health issues and
Photo: Helen Munro
contraception, visit website given below.
the
NHS
Stress Many things about starting a new life as a student can be very stressful. You’re probably adapting to a new environment and new people, living on a tight budget, and coping with work on a new academic level. Therefore, it’s natural to get stressed and this can manifest itself in many ways, from problems sleeping to a loss of appetite. However, too much stress can have a negative effect. It’s important to identify exactly what it is that is making you stressed, for example money, and see if you can change it, or get help with it. Try and direct your attention elsewhere, onto something nonstressful, such as watching a film, or doing some yoga or breathing exercises. It’s also important to talk to someone about what it is that’s worrying you. However, if you suffer from long term stress and anxiety that affects your life, you should seek help from a student counsellor or GP. For more information on any of these topics visit the NHS Choices website at www.nhs.co.uk.
American Apparel: worth the hype? By Caroline Vann Jones American Apparel looks set to take England by storm as yet another store is scheduled to open at the end of the month, this time in Bristol. It certainly has a stylish reputation and draws in crowds of enthusiastic shoppers each day, but is all this completely justified? The price range is definitely
reasonable, fitting in somewhere between H&M and Topshop, but what are you actually getting for your money? When in London recently, I went in to have a look and was struck by how dull the clothes were. Everything is either plain cotton or metallic lycra and whilst I admit that the variety of colours is extensive, the selection of styles is not. Plain halterneck dresses, straight-edged knee length skirts
and leggings were a few of the items on offer and that’s about as exciting as it got. Another complaint is the sizing. In order to look only vaguely acceptable in any of their clothes, you’d have to be a size zero. I realise excessive summer bingeing has not been kind to my figure, but I couldn’t help welling up a bit when it proved impossible to get an extra large skirt further up than my knees. I’m just not quite ready to face
the prospect of picking up the extra extra large just yet. Without a doubt though, American Apparel has a future here. The sheer number of customers in there at any one time is strong evidence for that. Jack Wills has more than proved that there’s a market for plain, safe clothes and it looks like American Apparel have jumped on that bandwagon, but I can’t say I’ll be rushing back there any time soon.
FORGE PRESS Friday September 19 2008
23
TRAVEL
Prepare to panic By Danielle Appleton Every fortnight Danielle will be reporting back to Forge Press Travel about her year abroad in Oregon, USA. September is always a time for students to encounter a little bit of stress as they try to finalise their loan payments, pack boxes and suitcases full of clothes, and keep a careful eye on their overdraft balance. However this September is even more stressful for me. Alongside the normal preparation panic, I am faced with many more issues: will my visa application go through on time? Does my medical insurance cover everything it needs to? Will my entire life’s worth of possessions really fit into two small suitcases? These problems all arise from the fact that this year, rather than heading to the comfort of Sheffield, I will be jumping on a plane to the American state of Oregon.
I will be spending a year in the country famous for cheerleaders and supersize Big Macs Last year I was accepted onto Sheffield’s Study Abroad Programme and so I will be completing my second year of study in the country famous for presidential election campaigns, cheerleaders and super-size Big Macs. I am going to be attending Oregon State University, which is situated in Corvallis, a stereotypical picturesque American village, full of white picket fences and pretty chapels. I’ll be fully embracing student life ‘the American way’ by getting excited over football and basketball games, checking out the universities sororities and experiencing sharing a dorm room, and I’ll keep you updated along the way. I don’t think it has quite yet sunk in what a culture shock this experience will actually be, and so far I have just let myself imagine that this year will be something straight out of The OC. Although I am sure the reality will be very different…
A weekend in Amsterdam By Sarah Barns Renowned for its relaxed drug laws, legal brothels and tranquil atmosphere Amsterdam is one of those places you must visit in order to release your inner hippy and tease your naughty side. Amsterdam has such a distinctive vibe that it is impossible to compare it with anywhere I have ever been before. Bicycles rule the road and you face getting mown down by angry Dutch people if you fail to observe the rules of the road. It is an extremely green and picturesque city and the majority of people are remarkably friendly. After watching a street performance of an old man in a thong hang upside down on a
rope, we decided it was time to venture into one of the infamous coffee shops. Surprisingly smoking cigarettes is forbidden. The diversity of people in there is quite varied; there were dreadlocked gap year students but also businessmen and middle-aged couples. We were fortunate enough to meet a jolly young chap called Nathan who had come all the way from New Zealand but had managed to lose all his money and friends along the way. After hearing his life story over what seemed to be the longest conversation of my life, (he hates Jay-Z and his favourite place is Germany) we decided to make swift exit. We found a Ben and Jerry’s cafe; it was like Aladdin’s cave for obese
City spotlight: Venice By Rachel Ingram Stepping into Venice is like entering a postcard. The picturesque and tiny alleyways lined with designer shops give the city a serene yet surreal feel. Simply walking through the city is entertainment enough. Venice is small enough to tour on foot yet cheap public water buses and taxis are available. Venice is famous for seafood and restaurants get cheaper the further from St Mark’s square you go. The Jewish Ghetto boasts a number of very good canal-side family run restaurants. In St Mark’s Square be prepared to spend up to seven euros to sit down for a cappuccino and orchestra serenade, but if
you stand up at the bar you will only pay one euro. I recommend buying a multientry museum card for 12 euros that gets you into all the famous
attractions such at the Basilica and the Doges Palace as well as glass factories and museums such as the Peggy Guggenheim exhibition. Venice is a city of scholars so remember to take your student card to get entry discounts. A weekend in the world’s most romantic city would not be complete without a traditional gondola ride with a local Venetian. These are expensive, at about 100 euros for a 40 minute ride, but are a great way to see the water city from another angle and receive a history lesson in the process. With flights starting at £50, a trip to Venice is a must. But be quick to catch it before it sinks.
people full of waffles, syrup and hundreds and thousands. Even though there were the generic takeaway outlets the majority of independent restaurants were reasonably priced and the range of food available was exhaustive. We visited Anne Frank’s house and it was one of the most moving places I have ever been. The walls are covered with extracts
It was full of scantily clad women in racy underwear enticing the clientele from her diary and standing in her bedroom sent a chill down my spine. There was an American woman standing by markings on the wall of the Frank family heights and she was weeping silently, it was really quite a poignant moment. We visited other must-see places such as the cannabis museum which was a bit of a let down as it was really small, and Madame Tussauds where we spent the day pulling silly poses
by wax celebrities and got a little overexcited when we ‘met’ the Spice Girls. A trip to the red light district really broke any preconceptions I had about prostitutes. Rather than the stereotyped image I had in my naïve head of women wandering around looking suspicious in fur coats, it was actually full of scantily clad women in racy underwear enticing the clientele into their rooms. The majority of the girls were rather attractive as well, which I found shocking. To completely satisfy the nymphomaniacs in us we also visited the sex museum which was (unsurprisingly) full of old men in anoraks with disposable cameras. Even though there is a lot to do I recommend visiting Amsterdam for about four days as there is a lot of walking involved and it can get quite tiring. Overall though I fully recommend going and lapping up as much as the atmosphere as possible.
24
FORGE PRESS Friday September 19 2008
PUZZLES & HUMOUR
Coffee Break Insider Knowledge: El Paso By Clare McPartland If you were searching for somewhere to sample some fine Mexican/Italian cuisine, you probably wouldn’t expect to find yourself heading towards a restaurant opposite a building site on The Moor. Even if, for some reason, you were lurking on Cumberland Street with an empty stomach, and you saw El Paso with its slightly faded, unloved and perhaps a little confused exterior, you would probably walk straight past. I will admit to you that when I saw the building a few months ago on a first date, I was more than a little apprehensive. However, the moment we stepped inside to the clean, modern restaurant, with its soft lighting and cheesy Mexican music, I relaxed. We were ushered to our table for two by a grinning waiter and had drinks plonked in front of us almost before we had ordered them. Then, to make things even better,
A real life example of why not to judge a book by its cover. we were shown the menu, which includes a ridiculous number of mouth-watering starters such as spare ribs, nachos and minestrone soup (perhaps a strange variety to some, but trust me it works), followed by the classic Mexican mains: fajitas, chilli con carne, and enchiladas, along with a selection of pizzas and meat, pasta, and fish
dishes. The food always arrives quickly and never fails to please as the plates are piled high with delicious offerings. I particularly recommend the burritos or chimichanga for newbies. The staff are attentive (but not in an annoying way), and generous. The last time I went I decided to go without a starter due to a lack of pesetas but, incredibly, three minutes later a plate of garlic bread was placed in front of me, courtesy of them. The prices are very reasonable and their website has discounts to print off and bring along if the purse strings are tight. In case you were wondering, the date was fantastic; the man in question clearly knew this was a fail safe option, and we eat here on a regular basis. So, ladies and gents, if you are wanting to impress that special someone, or seeking a place suitable for a large group outing, or just fancy treating yourself to an evening of culinary delights, I urge you to visit El Paso.
Picture of the fortnight
CROSSWORD
ACROSS
DOWN
1. Banquet (5) 4. Velocity (5) 7. Golfing accessory (3) 8. Wild (7) 9. Fake (5) 10. Long narrative poem (4) 14. Fencing sword (4) 15. Temperamental (5) 18. Large imposing house (7) 20. Peculiar (3) 21. Lukewarm (5) 22. Part of the leg (5)
1. Festival (4) 2. Amazing (7) 3. Second sign of the zodiac (6) 4. Location (4) 5. Type of tree (3) 6. Subtract (6) 11. Security device (7) 12. Recluse (6) 13. Part of the eye (6) 16. Discover (4) 17. Not in action (4) 19. Short sleep (3)
Fact or fiction: how much do you know about Sheffield? 1. Local resident Donnie Dooley claimed Henderson’s Relish cured his baldness, after applying it directly onto his scalp twice a day for 15 years. Also, tests have shown it increases virility by 31 per cent.
SUDOKU
OVERHEARD IN SHEFFIELD Kitchen at Home Girl: Could you stir the potatoes? Guy: Sure. (Picking up wooden spoon) Girl: You’ve just got to move them about in the pan. Guy: Yep. I know what stirring is. At CiCs Employee (holding laptop): You need to stop going on dodgy sites. Student (taking back laptop): What do you mean? Employee: I’m not saying they’re XXX or even XX but... just stop it.
2. Sean Bean, Michael Palin and Peter Stringfellow were all born here. 3. Liquorice Allsorts were first created in Sheffield. 4. Prior to World War Two, Sheffield was spelt with three fs. 5. There are more bodies buried under Chapel Walk in the city centre than anywhere else in Sheffield. 6. Meadowhall was constructed with the view that if it was unsuccessful as a shopping centre it could be easily and cheaply converted into a prison. 7. There is a dormant underground volcano situated below the Walkley area of the city. 8. Sheffield residents eat double the average amount of pork scratchings per annum
than the citizens of any other British city. 9. Broomhill has the highest concentration of millionaires outside of London. 10. Tom Cruise’s blockbuster War of the Worlds was filmed on scrub land behind S10. Answers: True (supposedly) - 2,3,5,6,9 False - 1, 4,7,8,10
Our very own Students’ Union at night, snapped by Helen Munro, a second year Philosophy student. See your pictures here. Email press.features@forgetoday.com or send a picture message to 07765363716.
FORGE PRESS Friday September 19 2008
Student Charity Mission A University of Sheffield Law student is preparing to take part in the second of two long-distance road races in the space of a month. Jack Marsh competed in the 10 kilometre BUPA Great Yorkshire Run on Sunday, September 7, and he will complete his exertions on Sunday, October 5, by running in the world’s biggest half-marathon, the Great North Run. Marsh hopes to raise at least £200 for charity by taking part in the events, with Sheffield Children’s Hospital in line to receive his donation. The 21-year-old explained that walking past the hospital every day inspired his choice of charity. He said: “One day I saw a woman crying outside the hospital. “She was completely distraught and was being comforted by a nurse. For the rest of the day I couldn’t stop thinking about it. The fact that I walk past it everyday without realising that on the other side of the wall could be events unfolding that completing change the lives of families.” Marsh, who lives in Broomhill, has also convinced his some of his family members to join him in his exploits; his mother and sister are now also taking part. He said: “It’s been a great way of getting the family fit, while raising money for a worthy cause.”
Sports Council
Newly elected Sports Officer Ella White has proposed a revamp of the Sports Council for the forthcoming year. Her plans to overhaul the current setup is hoped to improve the levels of communication between sports clubs throughout the University in order to bring clubs closer together. Club captains are set to meet once or twice each term with a set agenda to discuss along with the recording of minutes. The plan is hoped to enable all clubs the opportunity to exchange
25
NEWS & COMMENT SPORT
ideas and advice in a more functioning manner and to discuss problems and solutions each club may have. Ella White believes the intended changes will help bring sports clubs closer together. She said: “Other clubs do different things and the idea is for these clubs to share these ideas. “It enables all sports clubs to talk with each other and share a sense of community and feel a part of the University.”
IntraMural sign up Registration for this year’s IntraMural Sports Programme takes place on Friday, October 3, at the Goodwin Sports Centre from 9am. Leagues will be available for teams wishing to football, hockey, badminton, netball or squash. The football leagues are divided between six and 11-a-side whilst there are five-a-side leagues for postgraduate and international students. To enter a team simply fill in an application form on the day, or visit http://www.shef.ac.uk/ usport/ for more details.
BUCS kit launch
Sports manufacturer Nike has joined with the British Universities & Colleges Sport (BUCS) to launch a new range of products for university teams for the 2008/2009 season. The range will provide kits for basketball and running teams. The products are in addition to the football and rugby team kits already available. The Nike/BUCS partnership is the first time that all university teams and athletes competing in BUCS competitions and events will be able to buy and wear Nike sports kit with the BUCS brand alongside their university badge As well team kits individual training and leisurewear items including t-shirts, tracksuits and jumpers are available for student athletes.
Sheffield is top centre for sport, says athletics legend Sally Gunnell By Jonathan Caldwell Sheffield is home to some of the finest sporting facilities in Great Britain, according to former Olympic gold medal winner Sally Gunnell. Speaking at a UK Athleticssponsored Track and Field event held at the English Institute of Sport, Gunnell, who took gold in the 400 metre hurdles at the 1992 Games in Barcelona, heaped praise on the city’s sporting excellence. She said: “The set up here is fantastic, really impressive. And Sheffield really deserves such a great facility; I know from my experience of competing here that the people are very knowledgeable about athletics and sport in general. “Sheffield will always hold a special place in my heart because I had one of my final ever races here which was obviously very emotional.” The event, which took place on Sunday, September 14, was designed to introduce young people to sporting activities they had previously never encountered. Gunnell was in no doubt as to the significance of such efforts. “Days like today are very important not only to encourage young people to be fit and healthy but also for the future of athletics in this country. You never know, some of the next generation of British talent could be found at a place like this,” she said. Gunnell attributed the improved performance of our athletes in this summer’s Olympics to a shift in attitude of those at the top level of sport in this country. “The big difference between now and 10 years ago, for example, is the government funding. There is a far greater sense that it is important for the country that our sportsmen and women achieve highly. “Days like today are indicative of this. When I was a child we never had anything like trial days; it was always up to the individual to join a club which can be very
Sheffield’s sporting facilities are world-class, according to Sally Gunnell. daunting. Now the authorities realise that it is no good sitting back and waiting for talent to come forward but instead that they must go out and find it.” Gunnell said that she was surprised by the British medal haul in Beijing but that the success had been earned by the efforts of both the athletes and the administration. She said: “I think the team surprised themselves to be honest but speaking to some of them before the games they did seem quietly confident. “I think they have been reaping the benefits of a newfound professionalism in British
athletics and so much of that is to do with the extra funding, which has been sorely lacking in the past.” Gunnell did have words of warning for the next generation of British Olympians. She said: “It is so important that the team keep improving because expectations will be so much greater in 2012 as a result. Whether or not that improvement will be seen depends entirely on the individual athlete’s motivation. However with the home crowd behind them at the next Olympics there is every chance that Team GB will build on the success of Beijing.”
What is the price of Team GB’s Olympic success? By Paul Garbett Even the most uninterested couch potato would have been hard pressed to have not enjoyed the fantastic performance by Team GB’s athletes in Beijing. In just 17 days of non-stop sport, our finest athletes took us from Olympic also-rans to sporting superpowers. In Atlanta 1996, Great Britain returned just one gold medal yet just 12 years later we find ourselves fourth in the world with 47 medals clinking their way back to the UK. So what has fuelled this huge turnaround? Have we landed on our feet with a talented pool of top athletes all of a sudden? Are we implementing cutting edge coaching tactics to maximise
success? Unfortunately, as with most things, it seems money is the key. With £190million of funding for our Olympic team, some critics would say we have effectively bought our way to Olympic success, with one set of figures suggesting each Team GB gold medal had cost the country around £10million. In my opinion, we are now reaping the rewards of years of successful funding of our sports. When John Major’s government launched the National Lottery in 1994, it’s unlikely anyone would have estimated the effect it would have on our sporting performances and the unique funding it would create. The former Prime Minister recently told BBC Radio Four: “I have always taken the view that there are two things in life
Gold hero Rebecca Adlington. that for most of us are important: sport and arts. I don’t think they should be available only to people who can pay.” And who could argue against him? A few weeks ago I was listening to Radio 5Live’s phone
in programme being bombarded with calls full of praise for our Olympians, with one caller thanking them for making the UK a “great place to be” over the Olympic fortnight. I also can’t imagine many of the flag waving supporters at the London 2012 handover party raising concerns that we didn’t earn our medals properly. In the modern sporting world, success cannot be achieved without the best facilities, coaching and technology. Thanks to increased government funding and the National Lottery, we have a system which is working well and providing value for money. Government figures for lottery investment between 2006 and 2009 show that the link between investment and return is particularly strong. Perhaps unsurprisingly, all the sports that received at least £10m
in lottery funding won at least one gold, while only two sports that received less than £5m - boxing and the modern pentathlon - won medals of any colour. The big question now is if Team GB can maintain this level of performance ahead of our own Olympics in 2012. The balance sheet looks to be in our favour. In 2006, Gordon Brown pledged £500 million in his budget for public sport investment in the run up to 2012. Two-thirds of that came from the lottery and another £200 million from the taxpayer. Undoubtedly sporting success comes at a price, but the key now is to build on Beijing and to continue investing in facilities and grass roots sport. Whatever the accountants and politicians decide, our athletes can be assured that the British public will invest their support if nothing else.
26
SPORT FEATURE
FORGE PRESS Friday September 19 2008
Ainslie sails into history By Jonathan Caldwell While Great Britain’s cyclists and rowers were propelling their team to unexpected heights in the medal table in Beijing this August, one man was writing his way into the history books on the waters of Quingdao. The nation’s gaze was drawn to the remarkable feats of Rebecca Adlington in the pool and Chris Hoy in the velodrome. Fewer people took note as Ben Ainslie became the most decorated Olympic sailor of all time. For many the true stars of this summer’s Olympiad were Michael Phelps and Usain Bolt; certainly it will be their achievements that live long in the memory of all those who witnessed the Games. However when asked to single out an athlete for praise the President of the International Olympic Committee, Jacques Rogge, passed these two great names and instead identified Ainslie. Rogge puts Ainslie’s comparative lack of recognition down to his choice of sport; while
Bolt won gold in all three of his events and Phelps gold in all eight of his, by competing in sailing’s Finn class the Englishman limits himself to just one event. However Ainslie is reluctant to focus too much on his personal accomplishments, instead choosing to acknowledge the remarkable success of the team as a whole.
The profile of sailing has come such a long way in the last ten years or so “Obviously it is great to have success at the Olympics but equally it was special to be part of the most successful British Olympic team since 1908. “What was so fantastic was that the whole team did brilliantly. Even those who didn’t win medals were in the hunt and on another day things could have been so different,” he said. Such is Ainslie’s ambition that he has already set his sights on his next major goal. He said: “There are so many challenges
left for me, but undoubtedly the biggest is the America’s Cup next year.” Going into the Beijing regatta Ainslie was firm favourite to win his third gold in successive Games, to go with his silver from Atlanta in 1996. However this pressure, and that of seeing his fellow team members achieve so highly didn’t have a negative impact on his performance. “Certainly success breeds success, so the team’s efforts helped me if anything. We are a close knit team, and I think that showed in the results. “Leading up to the event I felt fine, my training and preparation had gone well and that was fantastic for my confidence. You always get slightly nervous about such a big regatta but once you start racing that disappears,” he said. Great Britain topped the sailing medals table in China and Ainslie is happy to partly bear the responsibility for the popularity of sailing in the country. He said: “The profile of sailing has come such a long way in the last ten years or so and so much of that to do with the Olympic successes. “On top of that you have to consider the likes of Dame Ellen MacArthur with their endeavours in offshore sailing.” Ainslie also reserved special congratulations for Sheffieldborn Paul Goodison, who took gold in the Laser class in Beijing. He said: “I was personally so happy to see Paul get gold; he was my training partner in the Laser class in Sydney in 2000. His victory would have been all the sweeter having had to deal with the disappointment of finishing fourth in Athens four years ago.” The political protest that some had expected to overshadow the Games never materialised and Ainslie admits it was not something to which he gave much thought. He described it as “opportunistic,” and admitted that none of his fellow athletes could afford to distract themselves from their sport. Instead Ainslie praised the hospitality of the Chinese themselves. “The Chinese couldn’t have been more welcoming and helpful. The locals really made the Olympic experience much more unique,” he said. The efforts of both the Chinese people and their government to made the Olympics unforgettable as a spectacle and Ainslie acknowledged that London 2012 may not be able to match Beijing as a result. He did however stress the need for our athletes to keep improving. He said: “It is imperative that we continue from China and perform at our home Olympics. I am sure that the success the team has had this summer will inspire the British people to get behind the Olympics and support Team GB.”
FORGE PRESS Friday September 19 2008
27
REPORT SPORT
University cavers make colossal discovery on summer expedition By Paul Garbett Cavers from the University of Sheffield have enjoyed a successful expedition to the White Mountains of Crete, having discovered over 150 new cave entrances with one more than 200 metres deep. Sixteen members of the Sheffield University Speleological Society (SUSS) travelled to the Greek island for a three week trip aiming to follow up on a 2006 expedition to Crete and to search for entrances in a new area, nicknamed ‘The Promised Land’. The team set base camp in a valley called Mavri Laki, accessible only by a difficult 1000 metre climb up mountain roads from the nearest village, Anopoli. The cavers then spent time exploring nearby caves in a bid to find unrecorded and deeper passages. Team member Katie Dent said: “Usually we would all split into about teams of between two and five people. “Each team would be assigned an area to ‘prospect’. The team would pack the caving gear for the day along with lunch and then walk to their area. “Upon reaching the area the team would spread out and walk either up, down or across the slope looking for cave entrances. “When these were discovered the team would GPS it, and explore it which sometimes involved placing bolts into the rock to hold ropes.” The team also faced a difficult challenge to obtain water supplies as the valley consisted of pure limestone with no surface water. The group strung a series of tarpaulins through a cave to catch dripping water and travelled over an hour back to base camp with the supplies. The Sheffield cavers were particularly enthusiastic after finding a 200 metre deep cave on the final day of the expedition. The society named it Colossus and plan to organise a return expedition to Crete to investigate it further. The Speleological Society will gather again in the new term with several trips planned for the year including visits to the Mendips in Somerset, South Wales, and the Yorkshire Dales. The group also have plans to visit areas further afield having previously explored the Forest of Dean in Ireland and areas of Scotland. The society welcome anyone interested in caving. For more information visit their website at www.shefcavers.co.uk.
Club member Rob Eavis explores one of Crete’s many caves.
On expedition: a typical day
Team member Katie Dent talks us through a typical day on the Crete expedition. “Each day of the expedition began at sunrise when everyone came out of their tents, as once the sunlight hit the canvas it was impossible to stay inside. A breakfast of cereal with water and powdered milk was enjoyed by all along with tea and coffee. “After breakfast we would begin exploring the nearby caves, which generally went down vertically for 15 metres or so. Most caves
ended in a floor made of boulders, caused by frost shatter from the winter, and so there was no way through. These were de-rigged and the searching, referred to as ‘surface bashing’, continued. “When a cave could not be fully explored due to time or equipment, the same team returned the next day to continue exploring and try to investigate further. “Teams returned to base for a 7.30pm dinner that was cooked by one team and enjoyed by everyone else. “A typical meal consisted of rice,
couscous or smash with onions and tinned tomatoes with herbs, spices and tins of fish. “Food was kept cool by storing it in a freezer cave below the ground which held it at a temperature of five degrees centigrade. “When the sun left the valley the temperature quickly fell and although everyone sweated during the day in shorts and t-shirts, at night everyone wore coats and trousers to keep warm. “By 10.30pm most nights everyone was tucked in bed ahead of another busy day of caving.”
Photos: Robbie Shone
The Sheffield University Speleological Society in Crete’s White Mountains.
SPORT Highland training perfect for orienteers
Ben Ainslie interview Page 26
Olympics Reaction Page 25
Paralympic knockout for Sheffield Fresher
By Oliver Hughes After an incredible season for the University of Sheffield Orienteering Club, a large groups of members used the summer break to prepare for the new campaign with a trip to Aviemore in the Scottish Highlands. The 25 strong team, including two Freshers, hoped to build on their success at the British Orienteering Championship by testing themselves on some of Britain’s toughest terrain. Situated 30 miles south of Inverness, Aviemore seemed the perfect place to begin training for the year ahead. The trip allowed experienced orienteerers to polish their skills as well as help the raw talent develop their abilities. Training began on a six mile course around Loch Vaa, with clear blue skies and weather conditions the perfect bedrock to start the first run of the trip. It was seen as a tough technical challenge and the ideal place to start. Coach Dave Schorah believes the trip has given the club a great kick-start to the new year. “It was a fantastic week, and with all the training we did, we’re going to be awesome this year,” he said. Captain Gareth Little added: “There’ll be plenty of chances for us to improve throughout the year, and we have such a wide range of abilities in the club. We really do cater for everyone. “We have a wide variety of training, from circuits to interval training, happening throughout the year, and this year we’ll be increasing the accessibility of orienteering technique training.” Now in its 40th year, the club has had a number of recent successes including PhD Students Rachael Elder and Oli Johnson triumphing at the British Orienteering Championships held in Inverness in May. Publicity Officer Nic Barber, currently in his second year studying Molecular Biology, took up the sport just one year ago and believes the club has something to offer both experienced orienteerers and those new to the sport. “We number over 50 members and welcome anyone,” he said.
Paralympian David Wetherill sampling the Beijing atmosphere ahead of his participation in the table tennis event at the Peking University Sports Hall. By Oliver Hughes The University of Sheffield’s Paralympic table tennis star David Wetherill crashed out of the Beijing Paralympics on a technicality after a solid performance which could have seen him progress further. The 18-year-old’s hopes were dashed after officials ruled in favour of German Raider Schmidt, whom Wetherill had already convincingly defeated earlier in the group stages by three games to one. The usual ‘countback’ system of scoring which Wetherill was used to would have seen the first year Chemistry student, who suffers from the hereditary bone condition Multi Epiphyseal Dysplasia,
qualify into the knockout stages and in with a great chance of a medal. Currently ranked 11th in the world in the Class 6 classification, he convincingly overpowered Brazilian Carol Franco Michell 3-0 after having come close to beating world number four Miroslaw Kowalski, losing 3-2. Hoping to put the pain of defeat behind him, Wetherill and his GB Class 6-8 teammates took on China, the favourites for the team event. The Chinese proved formidable opponents, winning 3-0 before clinching the gold in compelling fashion, defeating Slovakia in the final by the same scoreline. Paul Whiting, Wetherill’s coach for the last two years, believes
he has the ability to take the experience of Beijing and push for a medal in London 2012. “He has always been talented and incredibly driven. Before the tournament he spent a couple of weeks in Hong Kong playing exceptionally well. “Players had known before hand about the rules change, but it was unfortunate; had it been worked out any other way he would have gone through.” John Smith, who is the club organiser at Wollwell Table Tennis Club in Plymouth where Wetherill plays, was thrilled with his performance. “David’s achievements are simply stunning; he’s worked twice as hard as anyone else at the club and to play such high
level table tennis whilst doing so well academically is fantastic. “He competes against able bodied players and is treated like anyone of us. You take pity of him at your own peril.” David’s mother Liz Wetherill said: “David was disappointed at being knocked out, but he understood the ruling. I think we were actually more disappointed than he was as we weren’t familiar with the Paralympic rules, but David played a good round and did his best. “London 2012 was always David’s focus and it was only early in 2007 when he realised that he could be in with a chance of qualifying for Beijing. He worked so hard to get there and everyone is very proud of him.”