FRIDAY 25 NOVEMBER 2016
INSIDE THIS ISSUE...
Issue 101
Comment
Features
Lifestyle
Sport
FREE
Column from Natalie Bennett
The BIG Issue
Vintage vs. Charity Shop
Sports Thoughts: Place of the Poppy?
p. 10
p. 16
p. 22
p. 45
Precarious Russell Group contracts ‘destroying the industry from within’? Rachael Bunyan News Editor Russell Group universities are more likely to employ academic staff on precarious contracts than other institutions, a Guardian ivestigation has revealed. The University College Union (UCU) reveals that more than threefifths (59 per cent) of academics teaching or researching at Russell Group universities are employed on some form of insecure, nonpermanent contract, compared to an average of 53 per cent across UK higher education. Statistics from the Guardian show that three-quarters of junior academics are on such precarious contracts. The University of Sheffield is in a better position than many other Russell Group universities with 39.2 per cent of academic teaching staff having insecure contracts, according to the Guardian. However, these figures still show that more than a third of the academic teaching staff are on precarious contracts, which
Bummit set to raise £1 million for charity Hope Cunningham News Editor Hitchhiking society Bummit are close to hitting the £1,000,000 mark with up to £900,000 raised for charity so far. The student run committee, part of Sheffield Raising and Giving (RAG) was established in 2003 and their ever growing total is the effort of 13 years of hard work. ...continued on page 7
include, short-term contracts, parttime roles, and hourly pay. In response to the Guardian’s findings, the University told Forge Press that a-typical staff in reality make up 31.1 per cent of the academic workforce and do not employ staff on zero hour contracts. One lecturer at the University of Sheffield explained: “This is something that we should be campaigning around. This is a growing trend and it is part of the neo-liberalisation of education.” “It is no surprise that it is the Russell Groups that are the worst culprits, because these are the universities with staff undertaking research. I’m not defending the situation, but I can see the logic of it”, the lecturer goes on to say. According to the Higher Education Statistics Agency, the University of ...continued on page 4
Sheffield sports teams get their kit off for charity P ICTU calendar RE I Story on page 6
NSID E!
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Forge Press Editorial Team
Editor editor@forgetoday.com Anna Gillies Managing Editor Freyja Gillard Deputy Editors editor@forgetoday.com Dan West Hallam Roffey Head of Online editor@forgetoday.com Caro Kyllmann Head of News press.news@forgetoday.com Lisa Latham News press.news@forgetoday.com Josh Peachey Rachael Bunyan Hope Cunningham Comment press.comment@forgetoday.com Will Morgan Michael Chilton Features press.features@forgetoday.com Jess Davis Ellena Rowlin Laura Mullan Coffee Break press.coffeebreak@forgetoday.com
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t’s getting to that point in the term where the winter nights are drawing in and the deadlines are all consuming. It’s easy to feel downtrodden at this time of year – especially when you leave the house in darkness for a 9am start and when you’re home at 4.30pm it’s already night. This time of the year can have its perks though, cue cosy pyjamas, hot chocolate dates and dare I say the anticipation of the festive period that is just around the corner. Riding high off the success of the 100th issue, the team have worked really hard to deliver another quality paper. In our penultimate issue before Christmas, we’ve got some great features and gripping reviews. I do have to take issue with our Screen Editors response to Fantastic Beasts and Where to
Find Them which came out earlier this week. I saw it myself and was blown away. It was the right balance of Potter nostalgia without trying too hard to be part of the franchise; Luke disagrees with me as you’ll read on page 38, but what does he know? This fortnight we have loads of interesting content to share with you. Comment have their usual selection of thought provoking opinion pieces as well as a debate that has divided the Media Hub: which is the better nightclub, Corp or West Street Live? Features are exploring Fast Fashion and the impact it is having on the environment while Lifestyle have reviewed one of the UK’s first ever cat cafes. Arts this week have features a Forge first, we have poetry written by a really talented
What’s On
Editorial
contributor in place of a feature this week. If you’d like to see more creative writing and poetry in Forge Press then be sure let us know. A final note before you turn the page and delve into what our paper has to offer, a quick word from me about the motives behind Forge Press and why we print what we do. We work really hard to make sure that Forge Press is a student paper; the team is entirely student-run, our articles are all written by student-contributors and we try and keep our content student-focused. Occasionally we publish controversial stories and articles. We do this as we value the importance of non-bias student media that gives all student opinions a voice, whether we agree with them personally or not. Our intent is not to offend but in the
interest of independent journalism we believe that the paper should be an opportunity for everyone to be heard. Hopefully, you can see that too. I hope you enjoy the issue, keep working hard, and know that the end of the semester is only three weeks away – you can definitely manage until then!
What to look out for over the following fortnight
A note on the last issue
Lifestyle press.lifestyle@forgetoday.com Anna Whittaker Joseph Mackay
Sheffield Students Union Gin Festival 2016 Two days dedicated to juniper based spirits, all paired with the correct garnishes and served with Fever Tree tonics. 25th Nov. 15:00 - 26th Nov. 23:00. Interval. Free entry.
Wellbeing Cafe Christmas Edition! The final wellbeing cafe of the trial period. The Christmas edition features seasonal vibes and great food. 5th Dec. 18:00 - 20:00. Inox Dine. Pay as you feel.
Sport press.sport@forgetoday.com Sheena Sidhu Ed McCosh Hugh Dickinson
16 Days Against Gendered Violence A campaign championed by the United Nations aiming to end violence against women and girls. The SU’s campaign will be condensed into 10 days jam-packed with events and opportunities to get involved! 21 Nov. - 2nd Dec.
The Jam Jar Xmas Ball Get your glad rags on for a night of anything-goes bootlegged Xmas excitement. 9th Dec. 22:00 03:00. Foundry, SU. £5 advance.
Music press.music@forgetoday.com Harry Chambers Emma Williams
Languages, Overseas Work & Travel Networking An event featuring employers who have come onto campus specifically to meet students that are interested in overseas work, travel or careers in languages. 28th Nov. 18:00 - 20:00. Discovery Rooms.
What is the Future of HE? Students & staff are coming together to discuss the future of higher education through a series of 6 short talks followed by a Q&A. 28th Nov. 18:00 20:00. Nelson Mandela Auditorium.
Games press.games@forgetoday.com Ashfaq Emritte Nick Burke Arts press.arts@forgetoday.com Mollie Davidson Laura Mulvey Screen press.screen@forgetoday.com Luke Baldwin Beth Andralojc Copy Editors Harriet Hales Harry Gold Kimberley John Shaun Thomas Katharine Swindells Tom West Holly Overton Molly Kerkham Jessica Green
Want to get involved or got a story to share? We always welcome writers, photographers and artists to join us here at Forge Press. Come and pay us a visit in the Media Hub situated in the Students’ Union or email our editor at editor@forgetoday.com
Every issue, we publish a good week/ bad week column in our News section. We created this column as ‘who has it been a good/bad week for?’ It is written by the News Team to give a brief overview of wider news stories and happenings in the world at the moment. It is not opinion, and we keep it balanced as the News section is not a place for individual voices. It has come to our attention that some readers were unhappy with our inclusion of Donald Trump in the last issue. As he won the election to become President of the United States, he was included as we felt he would probably feel good about this. Forge Press apologises for any offence caused and if it was not made clear enough in the design that the column was not our opinion and the good/bad scaling was in terms of who it had been a good/bad week for. We’ve updated the column to make this clearer.
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Firm In Brief... Chinese to turn books
Sheffield boasts most Class As, firearms and cost-effective coffee cash stash worth £1m
Sheffield areas issued Free parking for red floor warnings Xmas shoppers
International office management start-up, Service Partner ONE, has found in recent research that Sheffield is the bestplace in England to buy a cheap coffee, with locals paying an average of £1.45 per cup. The city placed 13th in the world for cost-efficient caffeine, with Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, coming 1st with an average price of 84p and Zurich in Switzerland last at £5.72. Research found coffee prices to be cheapest in countries with high coffee consumption. In Brazil, 4.8kg is consumed per person annually, almost double the amount consumed by Britons.
Areas of Sheffield have been issued red flood warnings following recent torrential rain due to the ongoing storm ‘Angus’. Water levels in the River Sheaf have been rising continuously, and trams between Sheffield Station and Gleadless Townend have already been cancelled due to standing water. Flooding was reported in over 50 locations across the city, with the issue of missing manhole covers excaerbating the problem in several areas including Abbeydale Road South, Saxon Road, Chesterfield Road and Thirlmere Road.
On 21 November police raids in Sheffield uncovered a stash of drugs, firearms and cash worth approximately £1 million. 17 kilograms of a Class A drug suspected to be heroin and three firearms were found. The raids are part of ‘Operation Duxford’, a project that aims to tackle crime in Sheffield and protect bulnerable people who live in areas of high crime rates. Temporary Superintendent Simon Wanless said: “It’s been better than we could have hoped.”
On Saturday 10, 17 and 24 December shoppers can park for free after 2pm in all Sheffield city council parking spaces in the city centre and in the permit parking zones. Drivers are still being asked to observe any local restrictions and waiting times In Fargate, the Christmas markets and Sleigh Bar are open from 10am to 6pm daily.
into 5 star breakfast
Rachael Bunyan News Editor
A Chinese Business Firm plans to turn Sheffield Central Library into the city’s first five-star hotel. The Sichuan Guodong construction firm has been given 12 months to explore plans to redevelop the Library. This is the biggest Chinese Investment Deal of any UK city outside of London, according to the BBC. If plans go ahead, the library service will be moved elsewhere in the city centre, to a more modern building. The library building is in dire need of improvement. There is a problem with the presence of asbestos and some of the original concrete from 1934 is crumbling in places. Without this investment from the Chinese Business Firm, Sheffield city council would have to spend approximately £30 million of taxpayers’ money to improve the building to modern standards.
Clegg leads campaign for cannabis reform Josh Peachey News Editor
•• UK cannabis market worth £6.8bn a year, and as much as £1.05bn to the Treasury •• Cannabis related offenders in UK prison hits 1,363, costing taxpayer £50m a year Sheffield Hallam MP Nick Clegg is leading a cross-party campaign to decriminalise the use of cannabis. The group of MPs are calling for the government to reform their ‘dark-age’ drug policies and join other western countries who are legalising the drug, after a report from a think tank called UK drug laws an ‘embarrassment.’ Speaking to Adrian Chiles on BBC5 Live, the former Deputy Prime minister said: “There’s a growing body of opinion across the world that if you want to deal with the scourge of drugs, in other words, you are anti-drugs, then you should be pro-reform.
“When you try and ban everything, you give a huge boost to the worst people in society, the criminals who peddle this stuff, and you don’t give the help to the people who desperately need it.” Cannabis is the most widely used illegal drug in the UK, with 6.7 per cent of adults aged between 16 to 59 using it in the past year, according to the Home Office. The Adam Smith Institute, the liberal think tank behind the latest report, urges politicians and the public to recognise that the UK’s drugs strategy has failed in its core aims to prevent people from using drugs, manufacturing drugs, and to put a stop to the crime, corruption and death that is taking place on an industrial scale around the world. According to the think tank, more than half of the British public and three quarters of MPs believe that Britain’s current drug policies are ineffective and a new approach is needed. Speaking about the report, CoLeader of the Green Party, Caroline Lucas MP, said: “The ‘War on Drugs’ has been an abject failure, and the continued criminalization
of cannabis users is deeply counterproductive. Britain needs an evidence-based drugs policy, rather than continuing the expensive and ineffective prohibition regime. I welcome this study and urge government ministers to urgently take a fresh look at our drugs laws.” More than 90 countries have at least begun to introduce harm
reduction policies alongside those aimed at enforcement and punishment. The Netherlands has effectively decriminalised cannabis since 1976 and Portugal since 2001. Germany is on the brink of fully legalising cannabis for medicinal purposes and Canada is paving the way for full legalisation and regulation. This picture is edited ‘Thug Life’ style - we do not imply that Nick Clegg smokes Mary Jane
New ecohomes are set to emerge in Sheffield Rachael Bunyan News Editor REACH homes are planning to redevelop brownfield land in Sheffield in order to build ecofriendly accommodation. The Sheffield based social enterprise trains apprentices to use reclaimed and recycled materials to build affordable eco-homes. REACH homes aim to use 50-80 per cent recycled materials when building the eco-homes to keep the price of houses down. These eco-homes are made from shipping containers and are heavily insulated, which will help to cut the domestic energy bills by up to 80 per cent. START homes are planning to build a two-bedroom eco-home for £65,000, with a three bed option costing £85,000.
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politics Precarious Russell Group contracts watch
Chancellor pledges to retrieve £2bn
Philip Hammond announced in the Autumn Statement on Wednesday that he would retrieve £2 billion lost to the exchequer via tax avoidance. He said he would close salary sacrifice schemes where employees are allowed to pay for perks such as gym memberships out of gross earnings and stop inappropriate use of the VAT flat rate scheme. Hammond also announced that the government will ban letting agents in England from charging fees to tenants, in an attempt to shift the costs from tennants to landlords.
Government rule out Farage for US ambassador
Trump and Farage’s relationship is easily bromance of the year, but the government has ruled out selecting the temporary UKIP leader as the US ambassador. The Donald has said that Nigel Farage would be a “great” choice and Farage himself has said that he is “in a good position” to work with the President Elect. Iain Duncan Smith threw in his two cents, not that they’re worth much at the moment, stating that Farage would represent “himself” rather than the “nation” if he ever became an ambassador.
Far-right terrorist who murdered Jo Cox jailed for life
Thomas Mair was found guilty this week of murdering MP Jo Cox earlier this year, repeatedly shooting and stabbing her whilst saying “Britain first”. It only took the jury at the Old Bailey 90 minutes to find the 53-year-old white supremacist guilty. Mair, who had a stash of neo-Nazi material at his home in the West Yorkshire town, had pleaded his innocence but failed to offer any evidence in his defence.
“destroying the industry from within”? Rachael Bunyan News Editor
...cont from Front Page Birmingham has the largest proportion of insecure staff, with 70 per cent of academic teaching staff on short-term or zero-hours and other flexible contracts. The University of Warwick is not far behind with 68% of their teaching staff being on insecure contracts. However, another lecturer at the University of Sheffield has argued that the figures and the assumption that all part-time contracts are bad is wrong. “In our department we have two staff off on paternity leave, one of our colleagues had a heart attack so we needed to replace them, so I don’t think you can get around part-time teachers.” A PhD student who works as a part-time teacher at the University of Sheffield has said the University have “been very supportive of me in the hours that they give me. So I feel that I have been very lucky in it, but I know people who have a much more negative experience than me”. Rather than seeing the shortterm contracts as a negative thing as the UCU and The Guardian have claimed, some lecturers argue that a contract that is longer than a year can “lock you into doing this [part-time academic teaching] permanently and never being able to do the research”. Another lecturer said that these contracts “gives them teaching experience and they need that in order to get a job”.
Concerns have been raised about the effect these casual contracts can have on the students. However, one lecturer at the University has disputed this by arguing that “the idea that students get the worst teaching from university teachers, I think is bogus”. “I actually think that you’re going to get some of the best teaching. These are young, enthusiastic people, trying to prove themselves because they want a full time job. And some of them are on the cutting edge, they have just finished their PhD, they are much more attuned about certain areas than professors.” Similarly, another lecturer has said, “It’s funny, a lot of today’s students feel like they get a better education from those people on casual contracts than those who are professional academics”. Others however highlight the psychological impacts of these precarious contracts for academic staff. A Sheffield PhD part-time teacher has said that the contracts and lack of security can cause “anxiety, tension, panic at times”. “You can have hours taken away from you in a second. It led me to have sheer white panic of what to do with my life.” Another lecturer stated “It’s just an unstable time in their lives.” For some, the overall trend of these results by the UCU shows a bleak image for the future of higher education and their academic staff. “The overall trend is bad, but I absolutely understand why
departments are having to make these decisions because we have no choice. This is the only way we are going to be able to cover X amount of hours of teaching and research.” “We depend a lot on our part time teachers and the PhD students.” Without part-time teachers, we could “all become inactive in research.” The lecturer asserts that there is now more pressure to employ zero or part-time contracts due to the application of “market logic into a non-market field”. “This is destroying the industry from within” he continued. “The main culprit for this is the Government and Vice Chancellors not standing up to defend the university profession”. With regard to precarious contracts, the University of Sheffield said: “In 2014, we agreed with our local UCU branch the introduction of a new Graduate
Teaching Contract to formalise the employment relationship of our postgraduate students who were previously undertaking teaching on a casual basis.” Andrew Dodman, Chief HR and Corporate at the University of Sheffield, said: “We provide a very attractive total reward and benefits package for all our staff, including those on fixed term contracts. We also ensure those who work with us on a more flexible/casual basis are afforded the same rates of pay as those employed directly by the University. “As part of our ongoing support to staff, we’re working proactively with the UCU and our other local trade unions to identify means of reviewing the employment status of those who work on a casual basis to ensure we support the needs of the University and our students.”
240ft cuppa dunk wins World Record Holiday Qian News Contributor
Photograph: official Guiness World Record website
A Sheffield man has secured a new world record for the highest bungee dunk in the 12th annual Guinness World Records Day. Simon Berry, 24, is an adrenaline junkie who has proved the literal meaning of ‘high tea’ after dunking a biscuit in tea from 73-metre platform on 18 November. He smashed the record with a 73.41 metre bungee dunk, significantly bettering the previous record of 60.553 metres that was achieved by Ron Jones in the US in 2013. With a camera strapped to his head, a chocolate Hobnob in his hand, the ponytailed tea drinker leapt from the platform to plant his
biscuit into a tea-filled Union Jack mug below. “It was pretty difficult - the team helped by getting me roughly in there in the right place, but going down and having to nail that cup of tea was pretty tricky.” Mr. Berry said after his feat in Bray, Berkshire. In order to ensure stability and precision, he clasped one wrist over the other as the snack surged towards its target. “[It was] absolutely incredible the feeling in my chest and seeing everyone’s smiles, it was fantastic.” Mr. Berry said. Official Guinness World Records adjudicator Sofia Greenacre was on hand to officiate the extreme challenge and was thrilled to announce it a soaring success.
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HS2 route change puts brand new housing estate in danger Lizzie Day News Contributor The announcement of a new HS2 route going through South Yorkshire could mean that a new housing estate has to be demolished. The original plan, for the high speed railway to stop at a proposed station in Meadowhall, has been scrapped for a station in Sheffield city centre instead. Natalie Bennett, former leader of
the Green Party, told Forge Press: “HS2 is an ill-planned, ill-thought out project that is a huge waste of public money, whatever the route. “Neither plan is satisfactory, using the existing station would result in a reduction of other services, while the Meadowhall plan would further concentrate traffic, air pollution and people away from the city centre.” The residents of Mexborough’s Shimmer estate were told all of their land may be required if the
new route is approved. Mexborough’s new estate was built by Strata Homes, a housing development company in the North of England. Andrew Weaver, Chief Executive of Strata Homes, said: “We are working closely with representatives … so that we can be clear on what this may mean for our existing and future home owners... [and] we will be doing all that we can to support them during this time.” Letters were sent to Shimmer estate residents, outlining that construction would not start until 2020, if Parliament approves the plans. Residents were told, “If this plan is approved… it is likely that the Government would need to acquire some or all of your land or property in order to construct the railway.” David Higgins, of HS2 Ltd, said: “There are less people impacted by this route, in terms of houses affected, but that’s no consolation for those people.” Mr Higgins highlighted the benefits of the new route, claiming it would save more than £1bn and
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make journeys to London take only 79 minutes. HS2 Ltd hope the Secretary of State will finalise the details of the chosen route by the end of this year. The original plan to build a station in Meadowhall was widely criticised when it was announced in 2013. In favour of the proposed new plan, Sheffield City Council claim a city centre station would create 6,500 more jobs in the city than the proposed Meadowhall station. HS2 now say that the proposed station in Meadowhall wouldn’t reduce journey times between northern cities and could create further road congestion. Sheffield City Council leader Julie Dore described the relocation of the station as “fantastic news for Sheffield”. Mayor of Doncaster Ros Jones said: “I am shocked and surprised by these significant last-minute changes [that] they…never suggested during the last four years. It is extremely disappointing that local people and our communities are being put in this position at the 11th hour.”
Vice Chancellor “ashamed” of PM immigration policy Lisa Latham Head of News
•• Keith Burnett criticises May in Times Higher Education Article •• The Vice Chancellor hopes to give warm welcome to foreign students The University of Sheffield’s Vice Chancellor Sir Keith Burnett has written in an article for Times Higher Education that he is “truly ashamed” of Theresa May and governmental attitudes towards international, and particularly Indian, students. Policies pushed by Mrs May when she was home secretary have seen the number of Indian students in the UK fall from 39,100 to 18,300 in the last five years, causing tensions to lie over her recent trade visit to India. Burnett, who accompanied
May on the visit, said Indians felt ‘insulted’ by the government’s position. “They say we want their money and business but are not willing to teach their children, even if they pay full whack,” he wrote. “They hear that our universities are allowed to teach and take the money only if Indian students are rich enough not to need a job, or can graduate to a job that pays over the odds in some parts of the UK. “The Indians I have met say this is not really friendly at all.” Mrs May asserts that the trip was successful and culminated in the signing of trade deals worth ‘a billion pounds’. However Burnett expresses concerns that the relationship between the UK and India will face further tension should May continue to exhibit hostile attitudes towards their students. He also points out that Indian students were worth £14 billion to the UK every year.
Wentworth Woodhouse to receive £7.6m
Lisa Latham Head of News A grade-1 listed stately home in South Yorkshire is to receive £7.6m for urgent repairs and maintenance. Wentworth Woodhouse is one of the largest private houses in England and sports the longest façade of any country house in Europe at over 600ft. It was added to the ‘heritage at risk’ register by government agency Historic England earlier this year. Funding has been allocated by Chancellor Philip Hammond, and is the only individual project to receive support in the Autumn semester. Charity Save Britain’s Heritage established the Wentworth Woodhouse Preservation Trust to raise money for the building’s restoration, and raised a total of £7m. However, the charity’s executive president Marcus Binney suggested that the total cost of repairs could be upwards of £42m. He said the government grant would “go on urgent repairs to keep the water out, to keep parts of the building safe to be opened to the public on the largest possible scale as soon as possible”. He added: “It’s one of the grandest and most splendid houses in England. It’s up there with Castle Howard and Stowe.”
Injured student asks nightclub for information Lisa Latham Head of News
He wrote: “Now when I talk to Indians, the hurt is plain,” he wrote. “I feel truly ashamed, and don’t want that hurt to be ignored or unheeded. In fact, I’m sure that we need a full-scale response to the danger it heralds.”
“You should care about this. Your children’s jobs in the future could depend on it. So I’m going to work hard to make our education the very best for potential Indian students, and make the welcome as warm as possible in Sheffield.”
A student who suffered serious injuries after falling down some stairs in Paris nightclub may need surgery. The incident happened early in the morning on 2 October. Clarke Andrews, 19, said he had been outside for a cigarette and was heading back in when he fell. He suffered a fractured skull, facial fractures and bleeding on the brain. He has instructed serious injury lawyers at Irwin Mitchell to investigate the incident and appeal for further information.
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Sheffield sports teams get their kit off for charity Anna Gillies Editor
•• Sheffield sports teams strip off for charity calendar •• Proceeds go to The Children’s Hospital Charity Sports teams at the University of Sheffield have produced a naked charity calendar in order to raise money for Sheffield Children’s Hospital. Several sports clubs such as the Rowing Club and Cycling Club stripped off for the photographs, with each club representing a different month of the year. Daisy Ash, Charity and Volunteering Secretary for Sport Committee, told Forge Press: “I think it’s really great that all the sports teams got together and took their kit off in order to raise money for a really worthy cause. The Children’s Hospital are a really
great charity who do so much valuable work.” The aim of the calendar is to raise money for The Children’s Hospital Charity which raises funds to buy life-saving equipment and support vital research and treatments for thousands of children worldwide. One of only four specialist children’s hospitals in the UK, the hospital relies on the generosity of its donors and the skills and dedication of its staff. Sheffield Sports Teams are doing further fundraising as part of ‘Do It For You Day’, which will take place Sunday 27 November. It’s a sports day run for children who are either recovering from cancer or currently undergoing treatment. Members of Sheffield Sports clubs are attending the event to offer their support and encouragement. The calendar is available to buy now from Our Shop for £6 or by messaging the Sports Committee Facebook page.
University of Sheffield Rowing Club: October
Sheffield social worker calls Thousands gather for the care of Calais refugees for festive fun Rebecca Lally News Contributor Sheffield council workers are calling for a better welcome to be given to refugees following the demolition of the Calais refugee camp. A Sheffield social worker described the ‘traumatised’ state of child refugees from ‘The Jungle’ camp. Michelle Kingan volunteered in the camp in Calais before it was dismantled by the French authorities. She described the
tragic ordeal the children there face, even after fleeing their wartorn homelands. Ms Kingan said “All the children from the camp are suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder because of what they’ve had to deal with. “Children should be thinking about getting to school, not worrying about where they’re going to get their next meal from.” So far, the UK has taken in around 300 children from ‘The Jungle’. Sheffield has accepted “fewer than
five” of these children, according to a council spokeswoman. Ms Kingan, who works for Sheffield council as a social work consultant, stressed the importance of refugees being made to feel welcome as “valued citizens” by Sheffield residents due to the traumatic experiences most had undergone. She said: “If you’ve already had this horrible journey to get here, you should feel you’re in a place of sanctuary. We want people here to welcome them, chat with them and give them that human element people have lost.” In conversation with the same newspaper, Councillor Jackie Drayton, cabinet member for children, young people and families, declared that Sheffield residents would “do our bit” to welcome the refugees in “possibly the biggest humanitarian crisis since World War II”. She also called for the British Government to “fulfil their responsibilities and give Sheffield the funding which will enable us
Florrie Andrew News Contributor Thousands of people took to Sheffield city centre on Sunday 20 November as the University’s own Bryony Page switched on the city’s Christmas lights. Describing the event as amazing, the athlete pushed the plunger alongside the cast of this year’s pantomime at the Lyceum and X-Factor finalist Gifty Louise, who closed the event with her own set. In the lead up to the switchon at 5:30pm, Heart Yorkshire Radio presenters Dixie and Emma introduced an array of acts on the main stage in the Peace Gardens, including the Voices of the Day choir, Sheffield dance group Hype Dance, and Take That tribute band Rule The World. Fire engine rides were being run by the National Emergency Services Museum and in Leopold Square visitors had the chance to meet real-life reindeer. As always, there were funfair rides galore for the people of Sheffield, as well as craft activities
and storytelling in the Winter Garden. The festivities continue until 24 December, with more than 40 wooden huts at the Christmas market in Fargate, offering everything from churros to winter jumpers. With Christmas lights now illuminating the city centre, the festive season has truly begun.
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Bummit set to raise £1 million for charity •• The world’s largest student organised hitchhiking group raised over £100,000 in 2013 •• “Big Bummit” tickets on sale on 28 November for a chance to get involved
Hospital and Sheffield and Rotherham Wildlife trust in the last year. The proceeds from their latest hitchhiking event to Brighton held earlier this month will go towards StopGap, Ashiana Sheffield and Darnall Community Development Centre to name a few. Up to 400 students from the University of Sheffield participate each year and fundraising ranges from stalls on the concourse to RAG raids in the city centre. Bummit holds two events each year which are open to all students.
The first, Baby Bummit, includes attempting to hitchhike to a predetermined location within the UK in one day and guarantees a spot on the second event, Big Bummit. This year’s Big Bummit location is Riga, Latvia and tickets go on sale in the Studentsè Union Box Office on the 28 November.
University of Sheffield expands food drive to meet demand Josh Peachey News Editor The University of Sheffield and the Sheffield Students’ Union have expanded their annual food drive to seven locations this year in response to requests from students and local food banks. Many people are unable to afford a meal this winter. Food Bank usage has rocketed in the past few years. In 2010 there were only 3 food banks in Sheffield. Now numbers have soared to 19. Shockingly, one third of users at Parson Cross Initiative are children. Kiran Malhi-Bearn, Sustainability Coordinator responsible for coordinating the food drive, said: “This year more students than ever have approached us to collaborate on delivering a food drive. These students have brought to our attention that food banks desperately need toiletries and sanitary products and that there’s no such thing as a ‘typical’ food bank user, with children and students needing to access food banks. Together we can make a
SCIENCE & TECH Research commences for ‘superbug’ antibiotic Lisa Latham Head of News
Hope Cunningham News Editor
...continued on page 7 Voted “Best Event” as part of the National RAG Awards in 2013, Bummit were able to raise £106,533 in just one year. Publicity Officer Sidney Samuels said: “participating in Bummit is the best experience I’ve had at University but doing it for charity makes it even more meaningful. We’ve helped hundreds of people throughout Sheffield over the years and the £1 million marker is just a small indication of that.” Their commitment to raising funds and offering support to local charities has benefitted Burton Street, Roundabout, Children’s
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very real difference.” Residence Life and Sheffield Students’ Union are delighted to be working with Parson Cross Initiative, Roundabout and S6 Food Bank to collect non-perishable food items, sanitary products and toiletries this winter. The food drive will take place every day from 5-16 December 2016 and students can donate items to seven locations this year, including:
Allen Court common room, Medical School, Sheffield Students’ Union plaza, The Diamond, The Edge reception, The IC, and The Ridge reception. Food banks especially need donations of sanitary towels, tampons and toiletries, shampoo, soap, shower gel, and toothpaste, and the group asked for these items to be prioritised.
A spin-out company from the University of Sheffield called Defenition Limited has secured funding for the development of a new class of antibiotics. IP Group plc, a developer of intellectual property-based business, will invest up to £415,000 into the new project which will enhance and commercialise research around a type of bacterial enzyme that holds a critical role in DNA replication and aids bacterial cell growth. Defenition Limited will use this research to target bacteria that
are becoming resistant to drugs and have the potential to become ‘superbugs’. Jon Sayers, Founder of Defenition and Professor of Functional Genomics at the University of Sheffield, said: “Increasing resistance to antimicrobials is frequently cited as one of the biggest threats to human health. “We have formed Defenition to address this critical need for new antibiotics. We have an exciting plan to target flap endonucleases (FENs), a new antibacterial target, that we believe will transform the treatment of highly resistant bacterial infections.”
New therapy for phobias and PTSD sufferers Lisa Latham Head of News A new therapy has been tested and found to reduce the effects of certain anxieties such as phobias and PTSD without patients having to explicitly think of them. The technique, called fMRI decoded neurofeedback (DecNef), could offer a promising alternative to other methods like exposure therapy which many find distressing and has a drop-out rate of 40 per cent in PTSD sufferers. The therapy involves scanning the brains of patients and rewarding them with a small amount of money
whenever brain activity touches on a painful memory. Patients do not consciously think of the memory, and so do not experience any distress. In this way scientists can override such memories and reduce the trauma they may cause. Member of the research team and clinical neuroscientist Ben Seymour said: “We always thought this was ambitious, but it worked the way we hoped it would. “We don’t completely erase the fear memory, but it is substantially reduced.”
8 FORGE PRESS
FRIDAY 25 NOVEMBER 2016
NEWS SU Women’s Officer Serena Cavasin: 16 Days of Activism against Gender-based Violence If you have seen a woman with red hair, a sparkly jumper and kneehigh boots frantically sticking up posters and distributing flyers in the SU, that was me: Serena Cavasin, your Women’s Officer. After a series of unpredictable delays which have set off on a slower pace a campaign that I have been working very hard on, the SU 16 Days of Activism against Gender-based Violence, I am now very happy to say that the campaign is happening and is getting more exciting, and more engaging, day after day! Inspired by the international 16 days campaign championed by UN Women aiming to end violence against women and girls, our SU version of the campaign will be highlighting the different ways in which we can all to work to make a positive change and end gender-based violence, both against women and the LGBT+ community, once and for all in order to create a brighter future free from violence for everyone. There are plenty of opportunities for all students to engage with the campaign thanks to the varied programme of events, which features workshops on a number of issues (from sensitive language, to FGM, to human trafficking, and possibly my personal favourite - how to support a friend or partner that has experienced sexual violence), but also the screening of an academy award nominated film (Water, on Weds 30), a candlelight vigil in partnership with Sheffield Hallam on International Human Rights Day (Tue 29), craftivism, a special Feminist Friday (2 December), and, most importantly, the Reclaim the Night march and rally today (Friday 25) which also happens to be the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and will be bigger and better than it has
Triple arrest for tree protest Jessica Green News contributor
ever been. All events, unless stated otherwise, are open to everyone of all genders so please do invite (and bring) as many friends as you can. If you can’t attend, but you still wish to show solidarity with the campaign, consider wearing orange (free deli mix in New Leaf and Syrup in Coffee Revs if you do), or wear with pride one of the 16 days badges you can find at the Welcome Desk. So far it has been great to have so many of our student societies and committees join the campaign (shoutout to Women’s Committe, LGBT+, Mental Health Matters and Welfare Committee, Film Unit, Stop the Trafik, and SheffMUN Soc), and this engagement and commitment from our members to embed liberation in our SU has truly made being an Officer in this very hectic time worthwhile. You can read more about the SU 16 Days campaign and find the full list of events and dates on the SU website or Facebook. Reclaim The Night also has its own reserved section and page, so look out for those too. For more updates on my work, please follow Women’s Officer Sheffield Students’ Union. Now go out in the world, be aware, be active, be kind, and be powerful!
Two pensioners were arrested after a stand-off with police over the controversial cutting-down of trees in Rustlings Road, Endcliffe. A dozen police officers arrived alongside Amey contractors, who started the felling at 5am. Members of the Sheffield Tree Action Group (STAG) and residents who opposed the work stood around the last tree to be felled in peaceful protest. Three people were arrested on suspicion of preventing lawful work under section 241 the Trade Union and Relation Act 1992. They were released from custody around eight hours later. Retired University of Sheffield Professor and Emeritus Professor of Sociology, Jenney Hockey, was one of the protesters arrested after she stood inside the ribbon surrounding the tree. Residents on Rustlings Road claimed no advance warning was given. Former Green Party leader, Natalie Bennet, said: “I think that it’s absolutely despicable and I’d really like to understand the thinking that suggests a couple of women in their seventies were causing fear for the Amey contractors, who were there with their chainsaws.” She also noted that residents
Photo taken by Lada Price
of nearby homes were awoken by police at around 2am and requested to move their cars. On Twitter, former Deputy Prime Minister and current MP for Sheffield Hallam, shared his shock over the ‘underhand’ felling scene. He added: “The council’s actions are unjustifiable, underhand and a waste of precious police resources.” Amey have already felled around 4,000 trees across the city as part of a city-wide road and pavement improvement plan. Cllr Bryan Lodge, Cabinet Member for the Environment,
said: “We have written to every home, brought in a new survey process for the entire city and set up an Independent Tree Panel. Our approach has been assessed at the High Court on three occasions. He added: “We carried out the work very early in the morning on the advice of the police to make sure it could be done safely. This isn’t usually needed but in this case it was considered the best option for the safety of the public, protesters and the workers.” The council plan to replace the eight trees and add nine more.
Alcohol-related cancers could kill 135,000 by 2035 Lisa Latham Head of News A study conducted by the University of Sheffield and Cancer Research UK has found that 135,000 people will die from alcohol-related cancer by the year 2035. Analysis of the last 40 years of drinking trends were conducted to produce the results, taking into account fluctuations in drinking habits and variation between ages. The report shows that oesophageal cancer is expected to show the largest increase, followed by bowel cancer, mouth and throat cancer, breast cancer and liver
cancer. It is also predicted that admissions into hospital for alcohol-related illness will cost the NHS £100m per year for the next 20 years. Professor Sir Ian Gilmore, chair of the Alcohol Health Alliance, said: “These latest figures show the serious consequences for individuals, the NHS and society if the UK government continues to ignore the consequences of the nation’s drinking . In particular they reinforce the need for a minimum unit price (MUP) for alcohol. It is clear from the report that MUP will save lives, including those lost to cancer, and ease the burden on our
health service. Importantly, MUP will do this while leaving moderate drinkers and prices in pubs and bars unaffected. “In addition, we need mandatory health information on the labels of all alcoholic products, informing the public of the link between alcohol and cancer, and the new low-risk drinking guidelines. “The public have the right to know about how their drinking impacts their health, so that they are empowered to make informed choices.”
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FRIDAY 25 NOVEMBER 2016
University takes steps to reduce number of animals used in testing laboratories Lisa Latham Head of News A freedom of information act submitted by animal rights group Cruelty Free International has revealed that the University of Sheffield put down a total of 81,582 animals following testing procedures in labs last year. This figure marks an increase of 22.7 per cent from 2014-2015, corresponding with an influx of research the University is undertaking to enhance their reputation as a centre of research excellence. The number of animal deaths in Sheffield is also significantly lower than other UK universities such as Oxford and Cambridge, whose rates of animal testing were almost three times higher. The majority of animals killed in Sheffield’s labs were fish (59,564) and mice (21,294), with the remaining 729 made up of rabbits, pigs, rats, gerbils and birds. A spokesperson for the University of Sheffield said: “As part of our efforts to remain at the forefront of medical and scientific advances
we conduct limited research using animals. “This research contributes to ground breaking developments in understanding and treating major diseases such as cancer, deafness, heart disease, Parkinson’s and other neurological conditions which devastate millions of lives every year. The University of Sheffield has made a number of significant discoveries and advancements in medicine through its use of animal testing, including the revelation of a promising new drug for Parkinson’s disease, which affects 127,000 people in the UK, and breakthroughs in the treatment of epilepsy, which affects over 400,000 people. To reduce the number of animals that are killed for medical testing purposes, the University has developed several initiatives. ‘Insigneo’ is a program the University implements and involves using a computer to simulate a naturally occurring biological process in a virtual environment, allowing scientists to draw conclusions about the diagnosis,
NEWS Wales
Who will recieve an extra £400m over five years to spend on capital projects. Chancellor Philip Hammond announced the funding in the autumn statement this week.
treatment and prevention of diseases without using an animal. Sheffield has become the UK’s centre for the implementation of sophisticated computer technologies in healthcare. The Shared Aging Research Models (ShARM) initiative involves collecting, storing and distributing the necessary tissues from a single mouse model for multiple research purposes, reducing the number of mice needed. ShARM also accelerates research into ageing by cutting the number of steps research labs have to undertake during the testing process and allowing more time for therapy
analysis and development. Several factors are considered during the processes of animal testing in attempts to reduce its negative impact and conduct necessary research projects safely and humanely. “Wherever possible the University of Sheffield is committed to using species of the lowest neuro-physiological sensitivity and zebra fish are increasingly being used in pioneering research instead of mammals. “Our scientists are fully committed to finding other alternatives to research which is currently dependent on animals.”
Local artists hold print-art workshops for Sheffield’s homeless Jamie Morrell News Contributor Sheffield’s homeless are being taught how to screen print in a bid to get the most vulnerable into long-term employment. Printed By Us, a non-profit social enterprise, hosted their first workshop at the Sheffield Print Club on 18 October. The enterprise works in partnership with the Cathedral Archer Project, a homeless day centre based behind Sheffield Cathedral. Three of the service’s users took part, learning the necessary skills and then reproducing prints designed by local artists. These prints can be bought online and the proceeds will fund further workshops, in the hope that more homeless people can take part and learn the art of screen printing. Mark Musgrave, freelance designer and project manager of Printed By Us, said: “I wanted to start something that involved creativity and enterprise, something that helped homeless
GOOD WEEK FOR
London ravers
Fabric is due to reopen under strict new licensing conditions. The famous club closed after two teenage drug-related deaths earlier this year. The new rules state that lifetime bans will be given for anyone caught with drugs.
Forge Follows the Fornight... Kanye
In probably the worst week in his life, the most controversial man in the world has had a meltdown. It started with him saying he would have voted for Trump, badmouthed Jay-Z, then he stormed off stage and cancelled the rest of his tour. The cherry on top was being taken to hospital for ‘sleep deprivation’.
NASA
people long-term, something that improved the self-esteem of the most vulnerable. “In the short-term the work is unpaid, but if the enterprise takes off the ground we’ll be able to involve more people and pay the most vulnerable in Sheffield a living wage.” David Gasi, Sheffield Print Club, said: “Apart from producing top quality prints, they were brilliant
students, full of questions, good humour and eager to learn. We’re just so pleased to be involved with such a wonderful project and can’t wait for the next workshop.” Mark said: “One of those who took part in the workshop said he’d been looking for an excuse not to come because he doesn’t like new things. But by the end of the day he was glad he came.” Another thought he’d be rubbish
at screen printing because he’s rubbish at DIY, but picked up the skill very quickly. “Screen printing is very therapeutic, and the final prints they created were beautiful” said Mark. Prints can be bought at http:// printedbyus.org/shop/.
The Earth Science department of NASA is to be stripped of funding according to the President-elect’s plan. Trump is keen to crackdown on ‘politicised science’ and shift the focus to deep space exploration, whilst eliminating all climate change research work by the department.
BAD WEEK FOR
10 FORGE PRESS
FRIDAY 25 NOVEMBER 2016
COMMENT
press.comment@forgetoday.com
The Phantom Menace of the SU Council The prolific right-wing opinion disseminator returns from SU Council battered... and angry
I
Matthew Rowland Physics Student
thought that racism was over. I was wrong. At a meeting of the council of the Students’ Union, I was subjected to a tirade of suppositions about my character and circumstance based solely upon my race. To give some context, this was incited by my proposal that we shouldn’t be racializing a motion regarding the Dakota Access Pipeline. My gripe was with the emphasis on the white locals who were successful in mounting a legal challenge to the pipeline (and that the route was somehow thus their fault) and so called “environmental racism”. Aside from the fact that the route has been determined by the Army Corps of Engineers, the point I attempted to express was that this focus detracts from the core message, that the pipeline shouldn’t be put where it is under the water supply and sacred grounds of Native Americans. This aggressive rhetoric will put off people who don’t live in a Marxist echo chamber and thus completely undermine the entire point of showing solidarity by alienating plenty of moderate white people who would otherwise entirely sympathise with this cause. Naturally, such blatant wrongthink required a collective denouncement. Ideology before all else, after all!
To anyone who was upset by my line of questioning, I am sorry. I am sorry that an alternative point of view is traumatising to you. I am sorry that you are distressed by the number of white people around you. I am sorry that you think buzzwords constitute an argument. I am sorry that you have been so indoctrinated that you cannot see anything other than a dichotomy of victim and perpetrator. I am sorry that you are so hung up on the concept of race.
I am not upset that I was disagreed with, and whilst I continue to disagree I am grateful to the individuals who attempted to give an argument without painting me as a Satan himself. I am not upset that an attempt was made on my character - I couldn’t care less. What does bother me, however, is that this is the state of our University. Open and free exchanges of views are silenced by a mob mentality, and thus many are afraid to speak out, as petty authoritarians sit in the highest legislative chamber in our Students’ Union. This brings us on to the core of the problem: Identity Politics. In its post-modern Marxist form of viewing everything and everyone as fitting within a neat framework of boxes, it paints us all having relationships of either victims or oppressor. As for the concept of privilege (which I apparently possess, my card must be lost in the post) and oppression, if
A recent SU Council meeting
Not by t endors h e Trot e reside d nt skyi Com tes at men t
you live in the West today, generally speaking I believe you do not experience oppression. If there are any social benefits and advantages conferred to you by virtue of arbitrary characteristics, then it is to women and nonwhites. Pertinent examples being the BBC creating minority-only internships and STEM access courses for women. This identity politics must be stopped before someone somewhere takes it to its natural conclusion. If you subscribe to such theories, that so-called ‘oppression’ is to this day committed by white men against everyone else, then allow me to explain why it is in your interest to drop these ludicrous and divisive ideas. I do not imagine it will be you cleansing the streets with the blood of the untermensch. By vilifying ordinary, decent people based on their race you push them straight into the hands of other identitarians, who praise them for it. I do not believe we should be making distinctions based upon arbitrary characteristics and if you disagree I would invite you to debate this with me in a public forum. If, however, you think that this is an entirely reasonable standpoint then I ask you to help push back against this. There is a small but vocal group who can be defeated. I have faith that the majority of the student body is composed of level-headed, well-meaning individuals who want no part in the divisive categorisation of people. If I am wrong about this, then I shall continue on alone. If it turns out I am right, I ask you dear reader to get involved. Read policy proposals, give those who represent you your views, scrutinise and run yourself. You cannot win anything with inaction, but the collective small actions of thousands add up. This year is important: the SU decides on its strategy for the next 18 years and as always there will be countless policies and motions that do affect your life at university. Don’t let the radicals win.
Politician’s Corner. A word from the Green Party candidate for Sheffield Central, Natalie Bennett. *other politicians are available
W
hat happens when your course finishes? That’s a question that mightn’t be at the forefront of students’ minds now, but it’s not long before it will be. Most people hope to secure a career job, decently paid – at least enough to meet the rent, somewhere they’d like to live and with real prospects. Some might be hoping to strike out on their own – setting up a business or artistic career. But it’s tough to achieve the outcome you’re aiming for if – like many – your parents or other relatives can’t help you with weeks, months or even years of support before you can financially survive on your own. It’s one big source of inequality – some graduates can do unpaid internships, can furnish their CV with volunteering, can wait for the right opportunity, while for others the first opportunity to earn has to be grabbed. It’s part of a broad problem – the waste of talent, of skills, of abilities, from workers in the “wrong” jobs. An Office of National Statistics study found that one in six workers in the UK is overqualified for the work they do. One potential solution is a long-term Green Party policy that’s now drawing increasing interest around the world – a universal basic income (also known as the citizens’ income). It’s a payment that would be made each week to everyone accepted as a member of our society, to meet their basic needs. It’s not means tested – the child rate starts the day you’re going, and once past pension age, it’s boosted to be a Citizens’ Pension to ensure that no pensioner is living in poverty. It would mean that no one would be left destitute – as so many are these days in the age of zero-hours contracts and punitive benefit sanctions. And it means that people seeking to set up a small business, or to “make it” as a creative artist, could devote their time and energy to that cause without insecurity and fear, and without being forced to seek or take jobs that are a mismatch for their skills and abilities. More, it would remove the
benefit traps that can make it practically impossible for recipients of benefits to take small opportunities to work when they’re offered – jobs that can improve their lives and provide a route to more work. It would also give carers, and others contributing to society in many ways that aren’t paid, security and a feeling that their contribution was being acknowledged. Administrative costs are also saved – the Citizens Income Trust estimates that administration costs could be only about 1% of the total costs – similar to child benefit. One reason for the raised interest in this long-term Green policy is technological innovation. Innovator Elon Musk is one of the many pointing to the loss of jobs as a result as a reason for a universal basic income – he’s said it needs to be introduced in the US. Finland is expecting to run tests of a UBI in 2017 and 2018, while the Dutch city of Utrecht plans to trial it with 250 residents next year. The right to food, clothing and shelter – the basics – are rightly regarded as basic human rights, yet our society increasingly fails to provide guarantees of those rights. UBI is one step towards guaranteeing them. In the 2015 general election the Green Party presented a consultation paper setting out how a UBI might be introduced in Britain, initially at the level of £80 a week for working age adults. Green Party co-leader Jonathan Bartley was in Sheffield this month [November], speaking at the University, said the UBI had to be central to a future society in which all could live without fear. “It offers genuine security and opportunity for all,” he said. In this, as in so many policies, the Green Party has led, and others are starting to follow. If you’d like to be part of politicians corner then please get in touch about getting a column of your own! (Looking at you Clegg). press.comment@forgetoday.com
FORGE PRESS 11
FRIDAY 25 NOVEMBER 2016
COMMENT
COMMENT DEBATES
THE PULP-PIT - the soap box of the common people What makes a good night out for you in Sheffield? “Ket” -Local Peak District horse “Without a doubt a significant and deeply held sense of self-loathing as well as a general frustration at this grand human experiment that feels it has to resort to a blacked out blur for enjoyment” - Comment editor “Fun
West Street Live vs. Corp The one thing our comment editors are truely passionate about is their belief in the best way to spend a night out. Let the fight to the rhetorical death begin
D
ARGUING FOR CORP Michael Chilton Comment Editor
o not go gentle into that good night out. Corp is only round the corner. Are you ready for it to consume your soul and lay you bare for all to see, prostrate to the Sheffield sky? The combination of high quality, cheap drinks mixed with loud catchy tunes is the very essence of a night out.
West Street Live is a half measure. If you have faced up to the fact that you are going to spend your night in another realm of drunken revelry and want something cheap, loud and fun; Corp is the only acceptable choice. Like a Raphael Renaissance painting Corp effortlessly conveys an understanding of the human condition that is unmatched by other Sheffield nights out. You feel the pain, the rising bile, the pop-punk breakdowns of a simpler time. If you are choosing between these two clubs for a night out, then you are no civilian. You have no time for the mediocrity of Plug or the predictability of Leadmill. You always know you wanted more, there was something different about you, a hunger deep down unsatisfied by the surroundings of usual clubs.
Let out this inner primitive being to the fullest, possible only through a night out at Corp. Cast your steely eyes over the vomitdrenched, paper clogged toilets as you try and keep down your sixth Corp Pint. It is this feeling of conquest and triumph that only Corp offers. All other places pale in comparison. What you have acheived this night marks you above the rest. This is in your blood. In caveman times you would have satisfied it by killing a mammoth with nothing but a spear; in the Middle Ages you would have achieved it by joining a holy crusade to a far flung land never to return, and in the 1800’s you would have fulfilled it by taming the Wild West under your cowboy boot. Alas none of these options are now available to you, but Corp is. You will wander this world without a purpose. Power through adversity and the bitter Darwinain struggle is what you crave and understand, and by God you will have it. Only Corp can fill that hole in your heart. The need for conquest, power and progress. Only Corp. Rage, rage against the dying of the light.
S
ARGUING FOR WSL Will Morgan Comment Editor crew Plug, Leadmill and Corp; West Street Live (WSL) is the best club in Sheffield.
This might be a difficult thing to come to terms with but it’s the truth, in WSL we can see all the elements that people like about each of these clubs boiled down into its purest form. If you’re the sort of person who enjoys going to Corp, presumably out of some intense self-hatred, you probably enjoy wet shoes and the sight of paramedics loading teenagers with alcohol poisoning into the back of an ambulance. WSL has the same ample supply of soggy floors and first years who don’t know the meaning of the word pacing, without the need to ruin a pair of shoes in the sloshing pools of their piss and whitey. Additionally, if standing around and awkwardly enduring some guy off your course playing an intense air guitar solo isn’t your thing, WSL has the best shapethrowers in the business. My tip is to wait until about 2am to watch the dancefloor evolve. The change is sudden, out of nowhere you’ll suddenly find large swathes of the crowd staring intensely at a set of lights and chewing the flesh out of
their mouths like a horde of the undead, gyrating with a dance style somewhere in between tango and a two-step. Admittedly these people have the same lack of spatial awareness as your average Corp goer, but the large amounts of amphetamines flowing through their bodies grants them asuperhuman ability to swing their arms in increasingly geometrically complex shapes. Working in perfect harmony with this booze/drug-fueled skanking are the ever dynamic WSL playlists. To call them mere playlists is an insult to their genius, in construction they are more akin to Beethoven’s fifth symphony or Pendulum’s Hold Your Colour. Inside of each playlist we can see all of mankind and existence, from their inexorable highs to the hard bass drops, the experience of going to WSL should be considered an exercise in culture similar to attending the theatre. Most importantly, West Street Live is free entry. So next time you reach about 1 or 2am and you realise you’re never going to get in to Plug, have no fear. There is one place where all are welcome, regardless of something as arbitrary as money. West Street live is the utopian clubbing future that we all deserve.
and friendship” - Sheffield loner
“A good night out is ultimately marked on the £45 chicken and pizza feast from one of the fine West Street take away establishments. Knowing a small slaughterhouse is dependant on my custom is a riveting thought” - Local ‘vegan’ “Completely forgetting to pace myself with my drinks. I don’t care about the consequences of the next day or that I am the burden on my friends lives that they desperately want to be rid of” - Any first year “The distant hope that I will awaken in the Peak District having assumed my true insect form. Crawling with the other flora without a care in the world other than where my next meal will come from” - Kafka “The purchase of a Boyz II Men DVD, a box of man size tissues and a large bottle of hand lotion” - Other comment editor “My extensive range of nipple clamps and freshly dry cleaned gimp suit ready and waiting back home” - Unnamed deputy editor
12 FORGE PRESS
FRIDAY 25 NOVEMBER 2016
COMMENT
press.comment@forgetoday.com
The death of the British university COMMENT COMEBACK Matthew Wickens Politics and Philosophy Student
I
t’s no secret to those in Higher Education that teaching staff aren’t paid enough.
In Sheffield, we’ve witnessed a wide variety of memorable protests, occupations and strikes over the failure of the University to pay its staff enough. Now, the issue is gaining more national traction.
“universities are
suffering from financial diarrhoea: the money is flowing straight out without touching the sides.”
Following a Guardian investigation, it has been revealed that over half of teaching staff in British universities are being ‘employed on a non-permanent or hourly basis’. Sheffield is far from the worst perpetrator, with 39.2% of its staff on non-permanent contracts, the University of Birmingham has 70% of teaching staff on non-permanent contracts, whereas Warwick has 68%. The Guardian article makes it clear the impact this has on teaching staff, revealing the serious mental health issues, the breakdown in marriages and the sheer work load that these contracts have. The poor pay that teaching staff receive is juxtaposed with the multimillion pound construction projects that Russell Group universities are taking on. The Diamond and the Mappin Heartspace are two obvious examples from Sheffield, but Birmingham has just opened its ‘New Library’. Further, these universities are reporting multimillion surpluses and paying their Vice-Chancellors three times the salary of the Prime Minister. The Guardian interviewed a teacher, who gave his name
DISCLAIMER: Vice Chancellor Keith Burnett may not be the literal or figurative embodiment of death as Greg, who taught in his department at Nottingham, having successfully completed a doctorate, yet had to work as a bin man to supplement his income. After several years of trying to make this arrangement work, his marriage broke down from the stress of it. It’s clear that universities are suffering from financial diarrhoea: the money is flowing straight out without touching the sides.
“Becoming an
academic seems like a road strewn with debt, stress and Pot Noodles” But whilst these arrangements are at best exploitative and at worst simply wicked, there are long term problems for universities themselves if they
keep up these practices. Getting into academia is no cake walk: it requires dedication, excellent marks and a willingness to submit oneself to a hell of a lot of stress. After the years of student life, graduate debt and the hard work of a doctorate, you’d want some sense of security by the end of it. Perhaps not a champagne lifestyle, but the knowledge that you won’t have to work as a refuse collector on the side. Becoming an academic seems like a road strewn with debt, stress and Pot Noodles which doesn’t lead to financial security at the end of it. And that’s why British universities should be worried. Many graduates will see there being an easier career path for them to take which they will be fulfilling and much better paid. If to be an academic requires having to live in a hand to mouth state, then universities could be facing a brain drain as the high achieving students move to high flying
careers and away from having to exist in a state of survival as academics are. If there is a brain drain away from academia, then the leadership in universities are playing with borrowed time. It doesn’t matter how architecturally avant-garde your buildings are if teaching quality begins to depreciate or how large a surplus you have built if research quality begins to go down. A generation of future academics could understandably be discouraged from taking the academic route if it seems so insecure. Not only are there issues for academics: there are also issues for students. With so many staff members of temporary contracts, we’re often paying through the nose for an expensive education. Yet students are being taught by those who are too concerned about their own job security to be able to guarantee the quality that one would expect from the fees we’re paying.
As the NUS said in a statement to the Guardian: “many students are now taking on unprecedented levels of debt to go to university. They deserve good quality teaching and anything that damages that is deeply unjust.” It is also simply sad that the academic system has placed business interests over simple ethics and that our universities have lost the will to seek the causes of things and find the causes of profit instead. This is the university system, not Sports Direct or Primark. We should be above exploitation.
For in-depth coverage of the lizards who run this uni/world, see page 4
FORGE PRESS 13
FRIDAY 25 NOVEMBER 2016
Vote, vote and vote again!
COMMENT
With major decisions continuing to be made on the behalf of the British public, Hugh looks at what Brexit should mean.
B
Hugh Dickinson Sports Editor
rexit means Brexit. As slogans go, it’s about as vacuous and self-evident as the sadly still running “Air France: France (la France) is in the air” and it sounds nowhere near as good when not spoken in a saucy French accent and played over a scene of a kissing couple.
But Theresa May’s favourite soundbite is not just verbal diarrhoea; it’s a terrible piece of negotiation.
“we as a country
are going to accept whatever horribly disadvantageous deal that the nations of Europe offer us” Imagine, for one moment, that you’re going to buy a car with your other half. As you walk into the dealership, your other half announces to the salesman that you are definitely going to buy a car. When you say “well we could think about the pros and cons of keeping our existing car if we’re not offered the deal we want,” your other half responds with “WE ARE GOING TO BUY A CAR,” loudly and directly in front of the salesman. Don’t be surprised when you end up
paying £75,000 for a used 2002 Vauxhall Corsa. That is the message that “Brexit means Brexit” sends. That we as a country are going to accept whatever horribly disadvantageous deal that the nations of Europe offer us. Now let’s suppose we put the idea of a second referendum on the table. The EU nations might offer a terrible deal in the hope that we’ll either reject it and stay, or accept it and leave. But, they might also offer a much better leave deal. Political establishments across Europe are fearing that their own nationalist uprisings might take them out of the EU in the wake of Brexit, and are still considering the best way to counter that. There are two schools of thought on this: Firstly, that they should do everything they can to keep Britain in the EU. Or secondly, that they should punish Britain for leaving it. If it is the second view that prevails, the EU must make sure Britain leaves for it to work. And if there’s a second referendum, or at least the possibility of one, then it may be that the EU have to make the deal sweet enough to make sure that we don’t change our mind. They’ll still be trying to demonstrate the mistake we’ve made, but at least we’ll have a chip on the table. Perhaps this is all fantasy. Perhaps we’ll get option terrible either way. But if we did, a second EU referendum would give
parliament the opportunity to wash its hands of accepting the likely deal. As our elected political representatives, we ask MPs to make decisions on the basis of expertise that we don’t have, but they are currently caught between the rock of the “will of the British people” and the hard place of the “will of the British people” being idiotic. The option of a second referendum would give them a get out. Parliament could have a vote on the negotiated Brexit deal with the options of “yes, these terms are reasonable, we’ll leave the EU” or “no, I still don’t agree with this, but let’s ask the people again.” This is the only option that retains the sovereignty of both Parliament and the people they represent. So going back to my car-buying example. Let’s think about this decision before we sign the papers. Let’s not accept the Corsa and the 3000% interest finance. Let’s have another vote. A binding vote. A vote on a white paper that tells us what’s going to happen if we leave. Let’s make our leaving terms a British decision. Not one dictated to us by some unelected suits in Brussels.
A rare photo of the European Parliament after the Brexit vote
Literally just a fucking dog
The saddest thing about the John Lewis ad Do what your overlords command, discuss their products. Participate. Purchase.
T
Ellena Rowlin Features Editor
he John Lewis Christmas ad. The gift that keeps on giving. Well, not this year. I had mustered up all emotions I would need for the most anticipated event of my life (I know, it says a lot), happiness, despair, joy, sadness, laughter etc.
“#bustertheboxer, I don’t think so. Monty the Penguin forever. ” But it just did not tickle my turkey. We all know and love the John Lewis ads for their intense storylines, normally beginning quite miserable, with some kind of loss or longing, tugging at your heartstrings impossibly, climaxing at some kind of reconciliation or blissful encounter then leaving you fulfilled at the great state the world you have just watched is in. This year’s just has not lived up to these expectations. For starters, where on earth is the heart wrenching moment, John Lewis? I personally don’t find
a dog not being let out to the garden to join some crazy animals to jump on a trampoline that sad, sorry. Also, #bustertheboxer, I don’t think so. Monty the Penguin forever. I don’t feel festive whatsoever when I watch it, and no that’s not because I’m a Scrooge, I completely adore Christmas. Just adding in a no doubt CGI Christmas tree in the corner of the shot does not substitute for the Christmassy feels. And I wasn’t left with any kind of loving emotion for any of the characters, not like I was with the poor old man on the moon, or the bear and the hare. It’s also a shame that the retailer didn’t follow suit from last year and support a charity, like it did with Age UK. It made the whole unrealistic story quite inventively realistic. As a devoted lover of John Lewis Christmas adverts, I am not a fan.
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FEATURES
scrapping creative a-levels.
FRIDAY 25 NOVEMBER
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FORGE PRESS 15
FRIDAY 25 NOVEMBER
FEATURES Sian Bradley Head of News - Forge Radio
W
hat would a world look like without creatives? Take away the likes of Van Gogh’s Starry Night, Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa or Picasso’s abstract faces, and the result is a muted, bleak picture. A number of A-level subjects have been dropped, following reforms by the Department of Education and exams regulator Ofqual. News that creative subjects, such as A-level History of Art, are being cut from the curriculum has devastated academics who teach it and fuelled concerns about the future of the industry. This decision reflects a shift in the government’s attitude to education, which favours academic subjects over ‘soft’ vocational ones. Communication and Culture, Archaeology, and Creative Writing are some of the subjects that will no longer be offered to sixth-form students. This began two years ago when the thenEducation Secretary Michael Gove announced a range of plans to shake up the exam and education system. He wants to prioritise “more challenging” academic subjects. Some academics argue that this forms a rhetoric which suggests vocational subjects are ‘soft’ or easy in comparison to the sciences. One proposal was to make creative A-level and GCSE subjects - such as music, drama, art and dance - more “rigorous and demanding.” The aim, he said, was to help schools nurture creative talent and cultural appreciation. These demands for content change meant that subjects like History of Art didn’t make the cut. Teachers argued against this decision, saying that the new syllabus would have taught students about creative solutions found by past and present societies. They say that the course’s global perspective would have also allowed students to focus on artistic cultures and periods that interest them. History teaches us about the past so we can be more understanding of the present and future. Whether its focus is on medicine, war or gender equality, it provides an opportunity for students to learn more about the world they live in. Yet when that focus is shifted to art, it has become a stranger to state schools. Charlie Stone, writing for Varsity, staunchly defended how Art History is “more than the discussion of a painting on a wall.” He insists that Art History provides the skills that creative jobs require, jobs which shape the beauty and intrigue of our culture. The arts add richness to our society, not to mention an economic benefit when we consider cultural tourism. If we take away a student’s chance to flourish in the arts, we risk stifling their potential. We also restrict their access to an understanding of the art world. In their letter of explanation, an AQA spokeswoman said that their decision has “nothing to do with the importance of the history of art.” Rather, they felt that the syllabus would make exams too “complex”, and they simply can’t employ enough examiners or justify the “risks” in maintaining this. They argue that the same principle applies to various other creative subjects.
It is also an expensive subject for the exam board to run, only 839 students sat the A-level exam this year. In fact, there has been 4,300 fewer candidates for all arts subjects this year. This is three times less than in 2015, according to Arts Professional figures. Creative courses including art, music and media studies have been saved, but for how long? The numbers are unlikely to stop falling if the education system’s budget keeps tightening. Alongside the dwindling student numbers in these subjects, there is also an ever increasing emphasis on STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) subjects. Academics argue that this focus is chipping away at the variety of vocational subjects and makes for an unbalanced curriculum. This decision also makes courses such as History of Art the premise of private education only, which hinders the choice and creativity of state school students. Many have made strong claims saying that the axing of such innovative subjects is classist and short-sighted. Dr Janina Ramirez, a lecturer at Oxford, told The Independent that the decision will restrict state school pupils’ access to the art community. This widens the divide between private and public schooling and increases elitism. Leading experts Professor Craig Clunas at the University of Oxford and senior vice-president Christina Prescott-Walker at Sotheby’s in New York, have signed an open letter to the exam board, stating “a subject of profound social, cultural and economic importance [is] disappearing from the UK A-Level landscape.” Of course, students who have an interest in History of Art can still apply for it at degree level. It is offered at the prestigious University of Cambridge, and prospective students don’t have to have studied it at A-level to be offered a place. However, some argue that students may be deterred from picking this degree as they haven’t had their interest sparked in it at A-level, or may be put off by the prominent competition from those who studied it at private school. Some see History of Art as an elitist study, and it could be argued that the decision to axe the subject from state schools heightens this view. This is shown by the fact that few state schools offered it before it was cut, and of those who did few students enrolled to study it. Whilst some may say that only minority subjects have been culled, and for good reason, this could be the start of a slippery slope where creative subjects are cut.
This is a danger to the teaching of students, as creative subjects offer a well-rounded balance and alternative to the typical English, Maths and Science. There’s also a chance that students who have a strong interest in art subjects feel forgotten and alienated. Further down the line, such cuts could have a knock-on effect to the job market. If students don’t study History of Art, this could effect employment rates in the creative industries. Cut even more creative subjects and this will only get worse. Students are aware of how hard it is to get a job, and how multi-talented they have to be. As a result, there’s an increasing focus on choosing degrees based on the graduate employment rate, which is why more students are choosing degrees such as engineering which offer great job prospects, as opposed to some creative ones. It is no secret that students are falling out of love with the less-conventional artistic subjects when you look at statistics. According to Ofqual, less students are taking exams in design and technology, drama, media and art. Last year, official statistics found that significantly fewer people visited two of London’s most well-known art galleries in the last five years. We can’t assume this is because less people are interested in art. But these numbers will surely continue to fall if fewer students are studying them. The removal of Art History and the overall decreasing interest in artistic subjects delivers a devastating blow to the creative industry. To many it seems that the people who devote their lives to creative subjects and their students, have been robbed of the opportunity to study what they love.
The students have been robbed of the opportunity to study subjects they love.
”
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FEATURES
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THE
BIG
ISSUE
?
Lucy Fox explains why homelessness in the UK is a problem that has been there all along, and how you can do your bit.
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FEATURES
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e need to talk about homelessness.
There is no UK wide figure for the number of homeless in the UK, however reports estimate that levels of homelessness have increased by 54 per cent since 2010. This Christmas as many as 25,000 young people will be at risk of homelessness, which Prince William recognised a few weeks ago at a charity gala. He said: “Behind that appalling statistic is a human being, not much older than many of our children and grandchildren, who is alone, frightened and confronted with impossible choices.”
“It is much more than just not having a place to sleep.” It may be hard for some people to fully epmathise with the homeless, and if you want to firstly understand what it’s like to be in their shoes check out ‘A Street Cat Named Bob’ at cinemas, the true story of how a recovering drug addict turned his life around with the help of a stray cat. Stats wise, many homeless people do not show up on official lists, lost from the system. This makes trying to help them very difficult, wherever in the UK. Local authorities only have a duty to house ‘statutory’ homeless people, meaning you have to meet certain vulnerability criteria to be eligible. Most will not meet this unless they have additional factors which deem them as ‘more vulnerable’ in the eyes of the council, like pregnant women or someone with a disability or illness.
“This Christmas as many as 25,000 young people will be at risk of homelessness.” Hostels and night shelters have seen a huge rise in the number of people needing their help over the last 10 years. Combined with funding cuts under austerity, this means it is impossible to accommodate everyone. Sleeping rough can be very dangerous and puts already vulnerable people at further risk. Women in particular, face violence and exploitation. Many will not report crimes against them for fear of being prosecuted themselves. Steve Clark, the chairman of The Sunday Centre, a homelessness project in Sheffield, gives more of an insight: “What you see, the visible part of homelessness, that’s just the tip of the iceberg.
Many suffer with addiction, mental health or behavioural issues. You can’t see the countless people sleeping on their friend’s floor. Housing is the most important step. People need a door they can close on the world. “But you need the wrap around support from other services. Unless you address these, people will just end up back on the streets.” So what are the Government doing about it? In October Theresa May pledged £40 million to go towards tackling the causes with a strong focus on prevention before people end up on the streets. The proposed Homelessness Reduction Bill would put more pressure on housing authorities with particular emphasis on the need for free advice. All this comes after wide criticism of the recent cap on Housing Benefit which affects 116,000 households. But is it enough? This is all about the emotional consequences of being homeless. It is much more than just not having a place to sleep. Being homeless can be like being invisible to the world around you. It doesn’t cost anything to simply smile or say “good morning” to a homeless person, but it really can make a difference and is one small step to reducing the stigma and isolation that go hand in hand with homelessness.
“Many will not report crimes against them for fear of being prosecuted themselves.” Although anyone can become homeless there is still a big stigma attached, like being viewed as ‘lazy’, ‘scroungers’ and unable to cope. What many people may forget it that there is normally a series of events and factors that lead someone to end up without a home. Things that could happen to any of us quite easily, like relationship breakdown, and even abusive situations that see people fleeing their home onto the streets. Pete Darwin has been volunteering for homelessness related projects for over 20 years: “It’s a vicious circle. Even once some people have been found housing, they often end up getting evicted because of complaints or not keeping up with the rent. They need long-term help in other areas of their life.” One group of society that is disproportionately affected by homelessness is migrants and asylum seekers. There’s more than one reason for this, of course. Refugees may lack vital support networks, like family and friends in the same area who to go to in a crisis. They have a lack of familiarity with support available to them and may not be entitled to benefits.
What can you do to help? Realise they’re people Like Lucy says, it doesn’t cost anything to just say good morning. You can give cash or a hot drink, and buy a copy of the ‘Big Issue.’ It’s a pretty good read.
Donate to charity Roundabout, a local youth housing charity in Sheffield, see roundabouthomeless.org Homeless day centre at Sheffield Cathedral, Cathedral Archer Project, see archerproject.org.uk Salvation Army, the nationwide charity to help victims homelessness amongst other things, see salvationarmy.org.uk.
Volunteer The Sunday Centre in Sheffield, now in its 25th year, provides teas, coffees and a hot two course meal to the homeless and vulnerable every Sunday and you can get directly involved as it is completely volunteer run. Just giving a pound can feed two people and some weeks they get more than 80 guests. Some of our students are already volunteering. For Mech Eng student Antonio volunteering is the best way to share your day with people who need it. Archaeology masters student Dean loves that it helps him practice his English and help people at the same time. Contact Laura on 07976740009 Sundaycentre@hotmail.com.
or
Is homelessness affecting you? Help Us Help is a collaboration between all the services and charities in Sheffield. They are there to provide practical support and compassionate care and advice to the homeless community. They currently provide a helpline for anyone sleeping rough in Sheffield. Visit helpushelp.uk.
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Fast
ELLE.COM
Fashion. An exploration of fast fashion and whether it is better for our pockets or the planet?
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FEATURES
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Cristiana Frunza Features Contributor
rom the catwalks of fashion shows and into your local store, fast ‘buy it cheap and throw it away’ fashion has become a worrying staple in many Western society wardrobes. Fast fashion started in the 1980s in the US, but took shape in the 90s. Who doesn’t dream of fine Italian embroidery or minimalistic French cuts? Fashion magazines overflow with the latest trends, yet there is one last thing in the way - the price tag. For most people the outfits advertised are desirable but not affordable. This is where fast fashion steps in, capturing current fashion trends and selling them at cheaper rates. It’s fair to say that everyone loves a good bargain and there’s nothing better than clothing which is cheap and fashionable at the same time.
“There needs to be more systems in place, more vigorous testing, and as a customer you can do that”
The luckiest of us have the possibility to purchase whatever fast fashion item we see on a pretty shelf, but would it really be the same if we knew the history of a product? Zara, a giant of the industry, creates an immense amounts of products for an immense amount of people. Studies have shown that 50 years ago, people were purchasing roughly 25 pieces of new clothing per year. Now the consumption numbers have increased, and so has the production. Over 60 per cent of Americans
used to buy US made products. Over the last decade numbers have drastically lowered to only 2 per cent. So, while fast fashion brings people chic clothing at low prices, but is anyone thinking about what happens behind the scenes? At the beginning of the 21st century with retailers like Zara, H&M and Primark becoming more popular, the fast fashion industry made more and more profit. Around the same time one fabric in particular became the most used; polyester. While cotton always maintained a high standard and was popular amongst all brands, polyester became the next big thing. Fossil fuel based polyester requires a lot of energy to create and is worryingly nonbiodegradable. This means that every fibre of polyester ever produced still exists today and negatively impacts the environment. Europe generates a total of 5.8 million tons of textiles each year, much of which unfortunately ends in landfill. Due to intense retail competition, big names will constantly go out of their ways to sell. It’s hard to resist an excellent dupe of a designer bag you fell in love with on the cover of a magazine. It’s even harder not to buy it when the price is good, even though you know it will soon be falling apart at the seams. It won’t be long before it ends up in the bin. As this shifts from a trend to an issue, designers have been seen to take a stance. British designer Stella McCartney recently shared her views at a lecture for fashion and design students. She talked about sustainability and the existing relationships between fashion and nature. “There needs to be more systems in place, more vigorous testing, and as a customer you can do that, you can challenge the people who are making your fashion,” McCartney
urged her audience. Sustainability is yet another significant factor for all fast fashion producers and the human race. The planet is becoming increasingly torn apart and the textile industry is contributing to that.
“Cheap production really raises the question of pay for those working on the clothes” Artificial fibres, plastic and toxic dyes are the main factors leading to the crazy amount of waste and pollution. What once was produced for every season is now created every month and then disposed of in less time than it took to get to market. Cheap production raises the question of cheap labour. The apparel industry employs thousands of people from third world countries to produce clothes at minimum pay. Although the apparel industry is one of the largest employers of women globally, only 2 per cent of those women actually earn a living wage. When it comes to sustainable fashion, designers take pride in their muses and are eager to share the story behind each collection, if not each item. A lot of work goes into the creative process and this is reflected in the price. Today, people are starting to realise the value of buying one pricey item which will be treasured, rather than several pieces that will end in landfills by the end of the year. A strong partner of the ethical designer is slow fashion. This ideal came as a response to the fast fashion trend and became embraced by people who would like to see a change in the world. The name is self explanatory and
aims to encourage everyone to embrace slow living. Luckily, new technologies are being launched to offer alternative options to designers and protect the planet. German fashion designer Anke Domaske has produced QMilch, an eco-milk fibre. California-based retailer Virus has produced high-tech sportswear from recycled coffee beans. Suzanne Lee of Biocouture has created vegetable leather from fermented tea. It’s all possible but money is a key issue for the main retailers. Sure, there are alternative technologies designed to produce the same amount with fewer consequences, but it comes with a price tag.
“While fast fashion brings people chic clothing at low prices, but is anyone thinking about what happens behind the scenes?” Now we’re witnessing a tough process, a campaign to raise awareness about the safety of the planet which brings us back to what really matters: our lifestyle. It’s not about shifting from cheap items to the very expensive ones, but instead showing an interest in what you wear, the same way we show interest in what we eat. But one thing is for certain, it’s up to you. Fashion lover or not, invest in sustainable fashion - make a small change. It will benefit you and the planet for years to come.
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FRIDAY 25 NOVEMBER 2016
LIFESTYLE Making a statement this Autumn
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LIFESTYLE DISCOVERS
FASHION
Lifestyle Contributor Cristina Frunza discovers autumns’ best fashion picks.
A
few years ago the concept of the statement piece barely existed - only a few daring bloggers would put it in practice. Even then, it only looked amazing in Instagram shots with pretty filters on. Today, luckily for us, statement pieces are the next best thing, a must have, and usually affordable. What does statement mean in the fashion world? Plenty of fashionrelated terms have been explained in books and guides and not only fashionistas picked them up, but people around the world. The term explains itself however: make a statement. Say it but with clothes. In the early days of the trend necklaces were the most popular: heavy, chunky and embellished necklaces stole the show and made statements of luxury, opulence or ocassionally careless looks. While some may think statement pieces are not their thing, designers and retailers have tailored current collections to this concept. With fashion evolving and revolutionizing itself every few seconds it seems, here are some of the latest statement trends and how to wear them.
Velvet
One of the Royals’ favourite fabrics, velvet, has become the latest fashion. Diverting from the classic colours of black and red, this fabric looks and feels better in shades of mustard, sapphire green and lilac. When it comes to velvet skirts they are the ultimate statement piece and can be worn with many tops. A classic turtleneck will pull off a conservative outfit (and also keep
you warm), while a thin shirt can add a touch of feminity. For those who want to go all out, combining double velvet can only make you stand out whether it’s an evening dinner or a rave. Top with sparkly jewellery to match the outfit.
Floral embroidery
If you didn’t get the memo, this autumn is (ironically) all about flowers. And not just flowers, but embroidered ones. On jeans, on shirts, on bags and especially on shoes. Affordable brands have launched an infinite number of floral items so that the fashion enthusiasts can feel just like Dolce & Gabbana’s ads: beautiful, youthful and bathing in the Sicily sun. Quite easy and fun to mix, floral patterns will go with classic white t-shirts, camel culottes and leather jackets. Embroidered boots match any outfit, so don’t be afraid to go with plain clothes when wearing these type of boots. They’ll say what your clothes won’t: that you’re feminine, daring and that you love your boots.
which will never be forgotten. Tip: wear with any mesh-like fabric.
Puffa
When Rihanna wore one of these oversized, puffy coats, the internet went crazy. Now that has settled down, the puffa trend is winning over more and more fashion lovers. Big jackets with even bigger sleeves and with a high level of comfort are the most fashionable statement pieces. Nothing says “I want to be warm and cozy” better than a puffa coat. Accesorised with chunky boots and beanies they give the ultimate winter look. Change the shoes to a pair of strappy sandals and add an off the shoulder top and you’ll be surprised to see how good it looks. Designers of puffa jackets created collections for those cold winter nights when practicacality is key. This is where this coat steps in and offers both style and comfort. Photo: Topshop
Patent leather
Back from the age of Carmen Electra and sexy ankle sock boots, patent leather is back. Preferably seen on shoes or in the form of leather trench coats, this fabric is contrasting velvet. On a kinkier and more provocative note, patent leather adds that extra something to your outfit which will turn heads. Red or black patent leather boots match black tights and pencil dresses, making the perfect outfit for work. But if you want to go all out then matching the shoes with denim and a bomber jacket creates a sleek and effortless look. The patent leather trench coat is possibly one of the statement items
TATTOO CORNER MOE JACKAY
Lifestyle’s regular section exploring the University of Sheffield’s Best Student Ink.
I
f music be the food of lovc, play on. Maybe Shakespeare was onto something when he casually jotted that down in Twelth Night. Now that I’ve made myself sound smart and cultured by quoting Shakespeare, I’ve got to tell you that there’s actual no decent reason as to why I have this tattoo. I like music. I like old stuff. I like the whole vintage brass/ wood thing going on. I got it done in the summer of this year in the lovely City of Worcester, where I had a gander at the Cathedral and had a particualrly disappointing Subway. The artist used a particualrly thick needle for the outline and it hurt like an absolute bitch. Easily the most painful I’ve had. Looks nice though. Do you want to be featured? Fire us an email! press.lifestyle@ forgetoday.com
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FRIDAY 25 NOVEMBER 2016
LIFESTYLE Why Paris is always a good idea
LIFESTYLE LOVES
By Anna Whittaker
FASHION
If you haven’t noticed that Sheffield is suffering from a lot of rain recently, you must have been living under a rock. For those of you who don’t own an umbrella or a waterproof coat, it is a difficult time. Big up the yellow raincoat. Soz lads.
FASHION
Lifestyle Editor Anna Whittaker shares her favourite bits about the French capital.
The Arc de Triomphe
The Arc de Triomphe was one of my favourite bits about Paris. Despite the steps just about killing off my legs for good, the view from the top was totally worth it. When you get to the top, you’ll be surprised at how quiet it is compared to the Eiffel Tower. It is free for students too.
The Eiffel Tower
We had a guided tour of the tower which was pretty cool as we got to skip the horrendous queues and it wasn’t too expensive. The only downside was as we were with a tour group, we were expected to stay with them which slowed us down a bit. Seeing the tower at night is a definite must. We went on a night-time river cruise and as it ended, we pulled up alongside the glittering tower which was pretty magical. On our last day we sat underneath the tower with strawberries, chocolate crepes and fruit smoothies. My expectations of Paris being a hectic place were completely blown away. It is a relaxing and chilled out city if you find the right places.
Breakfast
Breakfast in Paris is even more amazing than you would expect. My personal favourite was tucked
FOOD away from the hustle and bustle of Notre Dame. We ordered a classic French breakfast of baguettes, croissants and jam. I attempted to order English Breakfast tea with no luck, and ended up drinking some strange herbal tea. We were there for a good few hours, peoplewatching and generally soaking up the atmosphere.
Notre Dame
The queue for Notre Dame was the longest we found ourselves in for the whole trip, and it wasn’t even that long. Inside the building was astonishing, and luckily we went in right in the middle of a service, so we got to witness a choir singing and Parisians praying. The stained glass windows were quite literally mesmerising and I could have
spent so much longer than we did taking in the surroundings.
The Louvre
Paris’ most famous museum certainly doesn’t disappoint. Tickets are a tad pricey at 15 euros, but the museum will keep you entertained for hours. The main attraction for most is the Mona Lisa, which is hidden away in the depths of the museum, presumably to make sure that eager tourists see some other art too. Be prepared though, Mona is way smaller than you might think and can be quite hard to see with hundreds of tourists pushing to get to the front before you do. Nevertheless, the rest of the museum holds fascinating pieces of artwork which are definitely worth going to see.
Montmatre
Saving one of the best until last, Montmatre isn’t in central Paris but it is well worth a visit. Not only is it home to Sacre Coeur, but it also promises a taste of true French living. The streets are lined with markets and artists, and the shops boast colourful macaroons and homemade ice-creams. Situated only a few stops out of the centre on the Metro, you simply can’t say no to a day trip to this stunning suburb of Paris.
At the moment I’m loving New Roots, the fruit and veg shop on Glossop Road. It sells good quality, healthy food at a fantastic price and it is totally run by volunteerswhat’s not to love?
Finally, my top tip for Paris is to take your student card everwhere you go, as most attractions will offer a substantial discount.
TRAVEL I have recently been accepted by a Spanish University to study in Madrid next semester and I am really excited to experience life in a different country. I visted Madrid for a week earlier this year and I would recommend it to anyone.
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LIFESTYLE FEATURE
Lifestyle Contibutor Katy Walton puts Sheffield’s secondhand shops to the test
A
s a rural girl who spent her teen years in a town that boasted Peacocks, Dorothy Perkins, M&Co. and Edinburgh Woollen Mill as its top shops, I know the value of good charity retailers. My wardrobe owes a lot to the yummy mummys who donated their barely worn, still-infashion cast offs. Not to mention the creative thinking that results from falling in love with a shirt several sizes too big and figuring out how to wear it. Then the vintage boom happened. I have no idea when it happened but somewhere between Cath Kidston and 2010, when I started my BA, it happened. If clothing was 20 years
old or more, it could be sold for at least double the price. From the girl who turned up at lectures wearing a different decade each week through to the subtle accessory with just enough of a vintage nod that every girl owned. So the Great British High Street now has two options for those who have chosen to move away from mainstream brands. But which one offers the best option for students? The only way we would figure this out is by comparing Sheffield’s vintage and charity shops. With my friend and vintage expert, Fee, for honest opinions, off we went to explore and compare Sheffield’s second hand style offerings.
In a single afternoon, we managed to visit the vintage sale on campus, Mooch Vintage and Mind on Division Street, and Cancer Research and National Hereditary Breast Cancer Helpline on Pinstone Street. Not necessarily the biggest selection of what Sheffield has to offer but when you’re a timepressed MA student, you reap what you sow. So how did the shops compare? That’s the important question, right?
Headlock Vintage Starting on campus with the vintage sale was not the best place. Both of us left feeling disappointed. Though I managed to snag myself a fantastic men’s jumper, I couldn’t help but feel that the £15 price tag would have been £5 in a charity shop for the same quality. Fee was more annoyed that everything seemed very 90s and more aimed at men. Not the greatest start.
Mind I love charity shops. However, they can be a bit hit and miss. On this occasion, Mind was definitely a miss. Neither of us found anything that appealed and it was the shop we spent the least amount of time in.
Mooch Vintage Mooch was definitely more of what were aiming for. Everything from wraparound red velvet maxi skirts through to distressed leather jackets, to delicate dresses and
patterned trousers could be found there. Fee and I had great fun trying on different items. Unfortunately, the price tags were way out of our student budgets. The cost-per-wear just wasn’t worth it.
National Hereditary Breast Cancer Helpline I have a suspicion that NHBCH is going to become a favourite. From the outside it looks a little dilapidated but inside it has a brilliant range of clothes that is laid out in a way that encourages browsing. Though neither of us bought anything, we both tried on a couple of items. I’d bought a black top on a previous occasion that has since become a staple so I did have a preexisting bias in NHBCH’s favour. However, a good charity shop is a good charity shop and I’m looking forward to browsing there again.
Cancer Research Our final chance! And Cancer Research did not let us down. While I walked out with another staple pair of skinny flared jeans and a necklace, Fee prepared for winter with a warm striped poncho. We had hit the jackpot, and all for a bargain. The shop was as busy as Mind had been yet it felt so much easier to walk around and browse through the rails. It was also the place I tried on the most things, including a beautiful green jumper that unfortunately was too itchy to wear. Overall, I am definitely impressed
with what I have seen of Sheffield’s vintage and charity shops so far. But in regards to whether I have been converted from charity to vintage? I am definitely still in favour of charity shops for two reasons: 1) the clothes are often more practical and wearable, and 2) they’re cheaper and therefore student-budget friendly. My advice is head down to Pinstone Street to check out Cancer Research’s and National Hereditary Breast Cancer Helpline’s shops. You never know what you might find.
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LIFESTYLE NO PAIN NO GAIN TATTOO
Lifestyle Editor and selfproclaimed Tattoo Expert Joseph Mackay details the tattoo acquisition experience (AKA: Advice for getting a tattoo) Plan Ahead As I’m sure your parents will tell you (unless they’re cool and edgy AF),
tattoos are pretty irreversible. Is it something you’ll want emblazoned on your body for the rest of your life? A way that’s worked so far for me is sketching up a design and sticking it on my wall – if I still like it six months down the line, I’ll get it tattooed. You can just be impulsive if that’s your jam; just be 100% certain on the design. Search up an artist whose style you like (Instagram is an incredibly effective tool) and fire them an email.
It also might be a good idea to stray away from areas that you can’t cover up (face, hands, neck) unless you’re entirely confident it won’t affect your future job prospects.
It’s going to hurt I don’t want to skirt around the subject: tattoos hurt. Some hurt more than others, depending on the location, the thickness of the needle, how much shading needs to be done… But they all hurt. Personally I’m very much of the standpoint that it’s comparable to a cat scratching sunburnt skin again and again. It’s tolerable, but it ain’t pleasant. Don’t expect it to be nice, basically.
Physically prepare Here’s all the usual generic stuff: make sure you get a good night’s sleep before, drink lots of fluids, eat a good meal. Don’t go out drinking the night before either. Not only does alcohol thin your blood and make the whole ordeal a bloody mess where the ink isn’t staying in so well, but the last thing you want when feeling hungover is a bunch of needles being drilled into the
surface of your skin.
Mentally prepare Despite my scaremongering point earlier on – it is tolerable. People wouldn’t get them if it was unbearable. Physiologically, I like to think that once the artist starts it, they’re going to finish it. Might as well sit back and just get on with it. You can also bring a friend or a book along if you need something to take your mind off the needle blasting.
Look after it
Lifestyle Contributor Rachel Sutherland prowls along into Manchester’s first cat café
A
s an animal lover this was an exceptionally unique experience. Surrounded by felines in a chilled-out environment. The Cat Café is unlike any ordinary café (the clue is in the name). The interior was 100% catered for cats, with an adventure trail covering the walls made from wood and topped with carpet. Allowing the animals to roam around high up - puurfect for when they feel like they’ve had enough human attention for the day. When I first entered the room I played a game of spot-the-cat, the more I looked the more furry faces I saw, most of which were snoozing out of reach. I would say there were just over ten of them, all of different beautiful-looking breeds from a blue British Short Hair to a Norweigan Forest cat.
They charge £1.00 for every five minutes that you’re in there, I stayed for 30 minutes which worked out at £6.00 altogether, which is fairly decent considering the price included unlimited, complimentary drinks. I thought I would take full advantage of this, but I only managed to get through one hot drink in half an hour, as I was too busy playing with the cats. If you’re a coffee fan, I would recommend the caramel latte. I visited between 6:30pm7:00pm on a Saturday, which was a good time in my opinion as there were only a few people there, which meant the human to cat ratio was well balanced. Although, I found out that student discount is available between Monday and Friday. I was able to feed the cats with biscuits, play with them with the various toys lying around, along with stroking them as they briefly walked by. I think the only downside to going at this time was that the cats seemed pretty tired, and didn’t seem to share the same excitement of making new friends
as the humans did. House rules are provided to make sure the cats are safe and not disturbed when they’re napping. Despite the fact that nearly all of the cats were busy catching up on their beauty sleep, two adorable sixmonth-old kittens jumped around the room and chased each other’s
Everybody is different, and everybody likes to do things differently. If you want any advice in the days running up, email your artist and they’ll be happy to advise, and pay attention to their particular aftercare advice. Obviously I am not a reliable authority on this subject. And then get addicted and ruin your body and future job prospects by getting too many tattoos. You’re welcome.
Breathe a sigh of relief because the tattoo’s finished. Except now you’ve essentially got an open wound on your body dripping with blood, ink and plasma. Especially in the first few days afterwards you have to take exceptional care cleaning it up and making sure it heals well (and, god forbid, doesn’t get infected). There’s a lot of burns cream, antiseptic soap, frequent washing and moisturising involved; and all of mine have taken about two weeks to heal fully.
LIFESTYLE REVIEWS
A Purr-fect Experience FOOD / CAT ENTHUSIASM
Don’t take my advice
tails. In doing so, knocking over a display at the bar which provided great entertainment and filled the room with laughter. As we were gathering our things to leave, the staff were setting up a film night, which looked very cosy with a big projector screen and low lighting, maybe you’d be lucky
enough to be joined by a sleepy cat on your lap. Upon leaving the café it felt as if I’d been put in to a relaxed state of happiness, spending time with the cats proved to be rather therapeutic and provided a real insight in to the simple and relaxed day in the life of a cat.
ARTWORK BY CHLOE DERVEY. CHECK OUT OUR REVIEWS OF FANTASTIC BEASTS ON PAGE 38
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ENTERTAINMENT
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GAMES
press.games@forgetoday.com
the construction of
Me.
P
ressing rewind, we return to innocent minds eons ago, when everything was big and we were very small, except our young developing brains, with neurons firing in every which way, reaching out to all things in a desperate attempt to cement our existence in the reality we percieved, that has long ceased to exist, that we could never have hoped to control. Yet our minds scrambled for something to latch on to. My mind latched onto other realities, that could be sculpted by little hands. Realities that bent to the whim of me way back when, that have shaped the countless mes that have existed since then. No, I do not have have a God Complex (much). I am not a control freak. Control was not the skill, it was the method. Creation was the skill, and the games that defined me so early on were the games that assigned to me the role of creator. Zoo Tycoon was the first. It came with the promise of dinosaurs (which, to my disappointment, I later found out only came with the Dino Digs expansion pack). With that promise the game hurtled me into a world defined by grids. Grids that would become over such a small space of time, the language of my virtual worlds, the words with which games like Sim City 4 and RollerCoaster Tycoon spoke to me. Grids were a challenge in creation. Once again, control slipped away
as the freedom to create became defined by outside forces with very specific parameters. And so did those parameters drive me forward, in a never-ending quest to break them, armed with a deep respect for two thrings. The first was connections, the movement of people and how pathways and roads, such simple tools, could be used to craft narratives. Though I would always be looking down on the guests of my theme park, or the inhabitants of my city, in an axonometric view (back then games didn’t have the
desperate “aattempt to
explore the beauty of the built form, and with Sim City 4, that evolved into a fascination with urban grain and then later on, cities as sculptures reflecting the state of our humanity. And out of respect for these two things, I was pushed to investigate and understand by a mind that had become fixated about what we can build with our wee human hands. Before I knew it, my neurons had breached the chasm, and constructed the very core of me. These games that I used to play (occasionally still do) led me by the hand from a virtual world into the real world, and offered through the study of architecture some way in which to fashion it.
cement our existence
fancy pants 3D we have today, they were built with sprites), I would always be able to imagine myself in their shoes, walking through the spaces that I had crafted. When gameplay works hand in hand with your imagination, there is nothing greater or more exciting. The second was shape and form. These games provided for me a foundation from which I could
This week, Games takes a look at the games that have shaped and influenced our lives.
Ash Emritte Architect
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the discovery of I
spent a lot of my childhood playing games. Almost as much time was spent confusing other children on the playground because they couldn’t see all the imaginary places and characters from those games that I was attempting to emulate with them. Trying to communicate the likes of an orange bandicoot smashing boxes, collecting apples and crystals was always going to be difficult with my childhood vocabulary. Personally I thought was a hoot. Contrary to the belief that games keep you inside all day, games actually inspired me to take up hobbies like mountaineering and hiking. When I was young I used to draw lots of maps. I was obsessed with making worlds and the idea of exploring. Presumably because of the many hours I spent playing Pokemon: Crystal Version, exploring the caves and hidden places along the routes to get rare items. To get deep for a second, I think through my outdoorsy hobbies today, I might be subconsciously trying to find those vistas and views I’d created in my mind
of those games. I thoroughly believe that had my dad not brought a PS1 home without asking my mum and left age inappropriate games unsupervised like Tomb Raider: The Last Revelation next to the console, that I would be a very different person today. I’m very lucky that I was exposed to female heroine Lara Croft from such a young age. Naturally, this meant I tended to stray from typically feminine ideals for young girls. I spent a lot of time trying to climb fences and changing the furniture layout of my living room to be like obstacles and levels from the game. Having a strong figure in Lara, my ultimate heroine, exposed me the idea of female empowerment and feminism, things I became more invested in as I grew older, and this has carried through up to today!
GAMES
Me.
Personally I “thought I was a hoot
Chloe Dervey Tomb Raider
the history of
Me. never “ Ibecome
did a
warmongering
conqueror
W
hen I was younger, if you’d have asked me where I would like to be at aged 20, I would probably have dreamed of being a premier league footballer like most, obviously not all, young boys do. If that had come to pass I might have tried to argue that games like Fifa and Football Manager, had had the biggest effect on me. Unfortunately, I was far better at the sport virtually than I was in real life, professional players don’t fall over quite as often as I do. Instead, at aged 20, I am a history student studying the subject that I have always (and I mean always) been the most interested and passionate about. This can be traced back to one game: Rome Total War. Although I do love others in the series, this is the one I always returned to. A turn based strategy game over which younger me would spend many an hour fretting over the actions of ancient Egypt or invading German tribal lands to find the gold to pay my overstretched legionaries. I obsessed with this game so much that I wouldn’t even be playing it half the time I was engaging with it. I would be looking up cheat codes online, getting far too upset
at the cancellation of the BBC show Time Commanders (though it is supposed to be returning soon) or just looking at expansion games I could never afford. For many the idea of watching the computer go through the motions for five minutes before clicking about a map for a bit and then maybe fighting a battle would soon become boring. For me I was exploring and affecting history all from the comfort of my dad’s laptop. At school I would daydream about my campaigns until we started History and then I would pay extra attention to see if it fitted in with my own campaigns. Rome Total War forced me to learn about history both in and out of the game. Though the series probably peaked with the first Rome game, my interest in the past only continued to grow. And whilst I never became a warmongering conqueror, my future as a history student started here.
Todd Baker Historian
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lack Friday is upon us. To the student gamer facing a lazy holiday indoors and possesses significantly more student loan than sense, this represents the perfect time to take a punt on something entirely unnecessary and graphically arousing. With that in mind, let’s jump right into the best deals for new buyers. For those yet to jump on board with current generation consoles, you’d do a lot worse than to find a standard PS4 or Xbox One. Both are highly capable machines that Sony and Microsoft desperately want you to believe are inferior to their new slimmer versions, the ‘Slim’ and the ‘S’ respectively. Don’t believe everything you hear. The new PS4 Pro is a different story entirely. As the
H
FRIDAY 25 NOVEMBER 2016
A budget editorial world’s wheel of change spins ever faster, the Pro represents a sort of mid-generational leap in technology. It is certainly a powerful beast, offering up-scaled 4K (an ‘almost there’ version of 4x HD) on games for years to come (so they say). Those lucky few in possession of 4K TVs will witness extra graphical clout that’s sure to inspire visions of nondenominational deities. But If that fills your boots, don’t stop reading. Microsoft may yet fill them further, with revelations at this year’s E3 games convention of a rival console due next year, one that seeks to blow the Pro out of the water. Perhaps those waiting for this “Project Scorpio” should invest in a 4K TV this Friday in preparation. Of course, if instead you are waiting for next year’s
ow do you follow a game like Dishonored? Rarely does a new videogame IP receive as much critical and commercial success as Arkane Studios’ stealth action adventure did upon its release in 2012. It’s even rarer that such success spawns a sequel without compromising on either quality or popularity. Bioshock is the glaring example, a game so different and exciting that it breathed new life into the industry (and made a pretty penny doing it) but failed to build upon those dizzying heights with its somewhat ‘samey’ sequel. Dishonored 2 is somewhat of an enigma then, not quite living up to its older sibling but certainly standing on its own two feet. Take the gameplay, which focuses heavily upon the idea of playing your own way. You can choose to sneak through a level without so much as a whisper or charge in with sword flailing, leaving piles of bodies behind you. Both methods are great to play, with solid controls and the consequences of your actions weighted perfectly in terms of their impact on the story . Surprisingly, killing half the population of a city wreaks havoc on the infrastructure. But the gameplay offers nothing new or innovative; it’s basically the same as the first game with a bit of extra polish. In trying to accommodate both styles, Dishonored 2 fails to deliver either perfectly, especially when compared to other games which have a more focused idea of what they want to be. The stealth mechanics works most of the time but can occasionally feel unforgiving and clunky, unlike the recently released Hitman which offers a far more intuitive and responsive experience. As well as the protagonist from the first game, Corvo Attano, the player has the ability to play as his daughter, Emily Kaldwin, who has a completely unique set of abilities. Although these offer some variety, gameplay is fairly similar regardless of who the player decides to take through the story. Whoever you choose, don’t expect much in terms of voice acting, with both protagonists doing fairly
triumphant return of childhood proprietors Nintendo and their envelope-pushing Switch, you are a hero amongst gamers; perhaps we will meet online someday. Billed as somewhere between a console and a handheld, the concept seems both genius and risky. Of course, Nintendo wouldn’t have it any other way. Finally to the PC crowd: the most aggressively aloof species of the gaming world. They can keep up with consoles using only a laptop or launch themselves forwards past even the PS4 Pro without even buying the upper echelon of graphics cards. Realistically, this article isn’t for you. You win all year round. Nick Burke Games Editor
abysmal jobs and generally sounding either bored or bit phoned in. The choice to add a voice to the previously silent Corvo most likely comes as a result of criticism of the original’s lack of engaging story or character development. Unfortunately, Dishonored 2 has similar pitfalls with a pretty basic plot and fairly boring characters. It’s a shame because there’s a stellar, if underused, cast including the likes of Rosario Dawson, Sam Rockwell and Pedro Pascal. Despite any criticism, the Dishonored universe remains one of the most immersive around, largely due to incredible art direction and level design. Many fans of the series will be sad to leave the dark, rat-infested streets of the Victorian city of Dunwall, as the setting and tone were what set the original apart from its competitors. But they won’t be sad for long. Drawing inspiration from Southern European countries such as Spain and Italy, Dishonored 2’s Karnaca offers the perfect balance between old and new, retaining Dunwall’s gritty social and cultural friction whilst offering an exciting and vibrant colour palette. Gone are the plaguecarrying rats, replaced by blood sucking mosquito-like insects. The game is truly gorgeous and meticulously detailed, with things like architecture and fashion feeling brilliantly realised in this steampunk, industrialised world. A particular highlight is the Clockwork Mansion mission which featured heavily in the game’s promotional demo. Rightly so, as it is easily one of the bestdesigned levels in videogame history. Just as impressive is the design of the city, which fully incorporates the game’s ethos of choice. Exploration is encouraged but not forced, side quests are aplenty and multiple paths are available to accommodate any playstyle. Whether it’s lurking silently across rooftops to avoid guard outposts, or charging in at street level with guns blazing, it’s incredibly satisfying. Either method leaves you feeling like the bad-ass magic-wielding assassin you were destined to be.
«««« Luke Baldwin Screen Editor
ARTS
PRESENTS
VENUS Lucy Harbron
If we are all born from stardust, then heartbreak is a black hole. Spiralling until the Milky Way is just a street you used to walk down, hand in hand, and Orion’s belt dims down to freckles on an arm you no longer see. For on the day the atmosphere collapsed, it was as if I ceased to be Venus, and instead became floating rubble, (a worry of destruction, but mostly aimless) waiting and waiting for the sun to hit me again, waiting and waiting. A lack of gravity as I drift above myself, images from a sci-fi, draining power levels heading to a crash; But god knows life is not cinemas and tough love makes the world go round. So the heroine presses eject and plummets, but the planets turn, and soon light, colour, motion, returns. Venus never ceased to be if she is self-aware. And so if we are all born from stardust, it’s what we will always be.
Read more of Lucy’s poetry on her blog at absence-evidence.blogspot.co.uk
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ARTS TESTIMONIAL
Maya Angelou: And Still I Rise Chloe Dervey Arts Contributor
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ngaging with this collection of poetry has reaffirmed my belief that feminism can be liberating for all. I bought it second hand and inside the cover written in black pen was the name and date of another woman, ‘Annette O’Reily 1988’. Both this mystery woman and Maya Angelou, are from a generation of women of whose experiences of feminism and women’s rights will be very different from my own, yet there is something very comforting about writing my own name underneath Annette’s. Though it is exciting to watch
EXPERIENCE
Politics in pictures: publishing my own children’s book
O
Madeleina Kay Arts Contributor
ver the summer, I wrote, illustrated, crowdfunded and self-published a children’s story book about refugees called Go Back To Where You Came From! which is now being sold in aid of the refugee movement. The book was born out of the EU referendum and the horrific rise in race hate crime. I worked compulsively, producing two illustrations per day and completing the entire manuscript in a matter of weeks. I was horrified by the morphing political landscape and the appalling reports of violence and abuse targeted at foreigners, migrants and refugees. I wanted to do something to change the world or at least contribute a small effort to reversing this trend of hate, intolerance and narrowmindedness.
“After receiving continued support, I decided to take matters into my own hands.” The book aims to teach compassion and addresses diversity in the widest possible sense, featuring LGBT+ and multi-racial characters. It tells the plight of a refugee using animal characters (the central character
recent videos of Emma Watson placing copies of Angelou’s work around the London Underground, I sought out this text to find a link between the fourth-wave feminism of today and the activism of Angelou’s time. I wanted to connect with the views of women from past generations regarding feminism, and those branches commonly underrepresented today. Particularly prevalent in this book is a form of feminism that accommodates women of colour, as expressed through art.
“It is a keen reminder that we must embrace our differences.” Maya Angelou lived an incredible life and experienced equally as incredible hardship. Many of her Alba White Wolf is based on my White German Shepherd). I hope to get copies into primary schools across the country and reach children from backgrounds where xenophobia and racism are accepted norms. I believe through education we can begin to shift cultural attitudes to make a happier, stronger and more supportive global community. Although I had a clear plan of the plot in my head, the illustrations came before the text. Drawing is a creative process and many elements of the story developed from the illustrations that I was creating. I posted the images on Facebook and was flattered to receive incredibly positive feedback. Friends loved the pictures and couldn’t wait to see more, which spurred me on. Once the manuscript was complete I submitted it to
experiences – as illustrated through her poetry – I know I could never identify with purely because of the circumstances in which I was born. But the autobiographic nature of her poetry at times gives the most vivid insight into a life which many women today can relate to and compare with their own struggle. This book covers topics such as childhood, aging, and seeking inner every children’s publisher that was accepting unsolicited manuscripts. I spent days arduously complying to their unique and extensive submission requirements and justifying why my book deserved to be published. Then came the excruciating part – waiting for my work to be judged and ultimately rejected, if I received a reply at all.
“I was horrified by the morphing political landscape, and wanted to change things.” However, after receiving continued support on social media I decided to take matters into my own hands. Strangers
strength, whilst simultaneously showcasing the poet’s experience of Black culture and activism. The material in this text is welcoming and rarely too abstract or difficult. Messages are clear and poignant and at times vary from vastly empowering (see ‘Phenomenal Woman’) to suddenly sad as they linger on pressing themes of loss or abuse. Yet the main thing were messaging me to ask when they could buy a copy, so I decided to attempt self-publishing. I got some quotes from online printers and I launched a Crowdfunder. The response I had was incredible and I quickly established a community of backers from posting on social media. The Sheffield Star mentioned the book in an article after Alba and I marched alongside Eddie Izzard and went on stage at the March4Europe. I was also interviewed by BBC Radio Sheffield and the Sky Islam TV Channel about the Crowdfunder project. I received an influx of pledges when Crowdfunder listed me in their top five projects, eventually raising £2, 250, which was enough to print 1,000 copies. Formatting the layout myself was a challenge and made use of
I take from this collection of poetry is not sadness. It is motivation, and a keen reminder that although our experiences may differ greatly, we must still come together under the umbrella of women’s rights and embrace our differences, so we can continue to educate, and liberate, each other. Everyone should read this.
the Adobe InDesign skills I have developed through my university coursework. But all the effort was repaid when I found 16 boxes of books in next-door’s backyard (alongside a very disgruntled neighbour)! I am now devoting my evenings to signing and packaging up books; I’ve sold 300 so far on Ebay and Nick Clegg has promised to get some copies into local libraries.
To purchase a copy of Go Back To Where You Came From! visit Madeleina’s website at albawhitewolf.com.
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ARTS THEATRE
The Duchess of Malfi ««« Nick Burke Games Editor
F
THEATRE
Annie Get Your Gun Laura Mullan Features Editor
F
ocusing on one of the most notorious female pioneers of the Wild West, Annie Get Your Gun is set to be a Christmas musical like no other in Sheffield. Holding a microscope to the restrictive nature of gender roles, the musical follows a fictionalized account of Annie Oakley - a fierce sharpshooter who can get anything with her gun but cannot seem to get what she yearns for most of all, a man. Saluting the songwriting brilliance of Irving Berlin, the musical flaunts some of the most iconic tunes from the Golden Age of Broadway including There’s No Business Like Show Business. “It is a hymn to America in many ways,” reflects director Paul Foster. “The best of America. It’s an absolutely incredible score.” Adapted from the 1946 book by Dorothy and Herbert Field, the musical celebrates its 70th anniversary this year. However, Paul asserts that the story remains poignantly relevant to this day.
“Annie was one of the first feminists of her time; she was a complete maverick.” “It’s about the battle of the sexes, it’s about family, it’s about travel and I think it’s also about someone having incredible tenacity. Those issues will never date. But at the same time, we didn’t want it to be mothballed so we’ve tried to take a fresh look at the material and imagine the script just came in the post yesterday.”
One of the West End’s leading ladies, the fiercely talented Anna Jane Casey, is tackling the role of the female lead Annie Oakley. With an illustrious career spanning across the stages of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat, Grease, West Side Story and Billy Elliot, what attracted Anna to this role? “She was perhaps one of the first feminists at that time and she was a complete maverick. She took on shooting - a feat that is usually associated with men - and she absolutely smashed it. She was the Lady Gaga of her time!” Anna is described by the rest of the cast as the very definition of a triple threat; equally adept at acting, singing and dancing. It is a trait that choreographer Alistair David wholly appreciates. Alistair says that, for him, developing the choreography is a long and thoughtful process. “I don’t know how anyone could walk into a studio and not have prepared everything. That sort of creative process, coming up with the shapes and steps, seems quite private to me actually.” Co-lead Ben Lewis is no stranger to musical theatre; well known for his portrayal of the Phantom in Love Me Tender. Yet for some of the cast this is their musical debut. Such as, Maggie Service portraying the mean-sprited Dolly Tate. She is up to the challenge as she sees it as “exactly the same process as a regular play, you still need to be truthful and you need to mean what you say but it just feels like there’s that extra sparkle.”
Annie Get Your Gun is at the Lyceum Theatre from Thursday 8 December- Saturday 21 January. For tickets, visit sheffieldtheatres.co.uk.
or even the most talented stage actor, classical plays can be a monumental challenge to perform. Modern language is so far removed from the flowing, verbose scripts of yesteryear that knowing how to engage the audience is just as important as learning what to say. SuTCo’s The Duchess of Malfi succeeds as an enjoyable take on a classic tale of tragedy and betrayal, sometimes finding itself hindered by raw acting and uninspired recitation. There can be no detracting however from some brilliant performances from star pairing Emily Bowles and George Evans as The Duchess and Antonio, with Bowles’ dedication to her titular role particularly impressive. One minute she stands defiant, tormented at the hands of her malevolent brothers, the next she softens and brightens in their absence. The Duchess is a varied and challenging part to play, yet Bowles delivers. Evans, too, engages with his character with palpable enthusiasm, regularly making good use of his space on set and relishing in his opportunities for physical theatre.
Megan Moore’s Julia is just as enthralling; her performance boasts a playful sexuality. She absolutely succeeds as a device to dehumanise The Cardinal. Of John Ireland’s conflicted Bosola, it is apparent by the end of the first act what an enormous task he has been given. As with a few of the supporting cast, he comes into his own towards the end, a strong highlight being a bitter and remorseful exchange with Elliot Lewis’ Ferdinand.
“The decision to begin with a completely original overture was a bold move that absolutely paid off.” Director Sophie Barber chose to shorten the considerable length of Malfi to a more manageable duration, and aside from a single jarring off-stage exchange, the process is smooth. The bulk of the story remains traditional and it is therefore a shame that, outside of some fantastic death scenes, more of the cast don’t experiment within their roles. The Duchess’ two brothers in particular, with The Cardinal written as brooding and reserved to complement Ferdinand’s brash aggression, never seem to capture the interplay that makes them such a classically threatening duo.
Nearly the whole cast, in fact, seem to resort all too often to shouting their lines, many of which could carry far greater weight and emotion in a softer tone. All this excess anger, particularly from the men, drowns out much of the talent that these actors clearly possess. There is a hesitancy throughout the show with some of the actor’s line’s spoken to the stage floor. At times there is evidence of actors focusing more upon hitting their cues than using their bodies and stage presence effectively. Despite this, the decision to begin the play with a completely original overture was a bold one that absolutely paid off. Composer Tom Rigby and his string musicians succeed in making the play come alive, accentuating the story’s plot points with splashes of well-timed melancholy and menace. Even the actors’ wardrobe is solid, immediately revealing the setting as something akin to the Sicilian Mafia. Surrounding it all is an impressive set, both vibrant and varied, though some LED lights rigged to flicker as coals in a fireplace are too often more distracting than immersive. Nevertheless, the overall attention to detail is very much appreciated. It is thanks to this, not to mention a few strong performances and good directorial choices that SuTCo’s The Duchess of Malfi manages to do both its source material and Sheffield’s student theatre justice.
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MUSIC
Interview.
press.music@forgetoday.com
Rama Alsammouah chats to Hugh Schulte, bassist in the odd-pop London four-piece Gengahr, ahead of their Sheffield date. So how did the band form? How did it all come about? Danny (drummer), Felix (singer) and I had been playing in various projects and bands since we were about eleven. So it’s been a long process forming this band, I guess. But this project was formed with John, about three or four years ago now, when we met him in the pub. He was great and we invited him to join the band, and he wanted to. The rest is history! What are the musical and non-musical influences that inspire the music that you make? We’re all influenced by different things. Danny and I are more into funk and soul, whereas John’s more into punk rock. So we all have different genres that we specialize in and then bring into the table when we’re writing. And what about non-musical influences that inspire you? Felix does all the lyrics and on the first record there was a supernatural theme to it, with ghosts and witches, stuff like that. So that was definitely on his mind. And I think on the second record he is going a bit more ‘natural’ rather than supernatural. The
themes are based around reality, and nature. What do you want your fans or people in general to get out of your music when listening to it? Potentially, you just want an emotional reaction to the music and for it to resonate with them and make them feel a certain way. I think that’s the only thing that we can hope for. You’re a painter and you did the artwork for your debut album ‘A Dream Outside’. Will we be seeing more of your artwork? Yes, definitely! I am in the process of working on a new series of work for the next record and the singles. I think it’s good, it should be a bit more unified this time, because for the last album and its singles, we kind of all just picked bits and bobs that I had anyway, that I had lying around almost. And we used them and fit them. This time around, I’ve started from scratch and got a whole theme. I think it looks a bit more thought out, hopefully.
Will it be implemented into the band’s merch? Yeah, definitely. (Hopefully!) Is there a show that really stood out to you and you’ll never forget for whatever reason? Playing the Scala in London on the last album tour was pretty special. It’s by far the biggest show we’ve done - the biggest headline show we’ve done anyway. All of our friends and family were there. It was absolutely terrifying but really rewarding at the end. It felt like a big step for us. Is there a particular song that you love playing live on tour? I really enjoy playing ‘Embers’ live, I think it’s one of the most lively and dramatic to play live. It always changes though, so one song is really fun for a few months and then another one start to prefer playing. But at the moment I’d say ‘Embers’ for me is the most fun to play live. What are the best and worst parts about touring? The best part is definitely the stage time, when you’re playing and meeting people afterwards and the evenings. But the days are not the best part - they’re just waiting around all day or driving. Basically, you kind of live for the evenings.
Is there anything exciting in the works? Yeah, we just finished recording our second album. That’s really exciting and it should be out early-ish next year and we’re just getting it mixed at the moment. Is there anything that you can exclusively tell us about the new album? Err… It’s got songs on it and it’s made with instruments. I think that’s as much as I can say! That’s okay! So, the last question is, ‘what’s one question you’d want an interviewer to ask you?’ Because you probably get asked the same questions repeatedly. I guess something like ‘what’s your favourite vegetable?’ Something like that. And I’d have to say ‘chips’. Chips aren’t vegetables! Well, potatoes then. Okay, well thanks for chatting with me. You’re welcome. Thanks for calling.
Do you have any pre-show rituals? Not so much. Just make sure everyone is there! Look out for Rama’s review of Gengahr’s show at Bungalows & Bears on page 34.
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Teenage Fan Club - The Leadmill
««« Harry Chambers Music Editor
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f the likes of Oasis and Blur are known for laying down the overblown and hyperactive soundtrack to those longingly remembered summers of the Britpop era, then Teenage Fanclub carved out a space for themselves as the purveyors of a more melodic, yet muted and autumnal blend of storytelling. Teenage Fanclub have aged
well, both visibly and musically. Frontman Norman Blake has an enviable head of hair for a man of 51, which flutters from side to side, teasing the audience who have also reached their middle years. A fairly subdued mass of pintclutching, slogan-chanting men, they appear not to have taken so much care of themselves in the 26 years that have passed since Teenage Fanclub released their first album, A Catholic Education.
“Teenage Fanclub have aged well, both visibly and musically.” The band, however, have persisted, honing their craft in their own quiet way. As if out to prove as much, they confidently tilt a good half of the set towards more recent material. Justifiably making up the bulk of this are new LP, A Head Full of Dreams. This single comes as a contrast to their latest upbeat and eclectic album, and sounds like a far more emotional and traditional track from previous albums like Ghost Stories. As for the inspiration behind the track, Martin told Lowe, “I was in the ocean one day with this surfer guy, who spoke just like you’d imagine a surfer guy to speak … This guy spoke like Sean Penn’s character from Fast Times at Ridgemont High. He was like, ‘Yo dude, I was doing this thing the other day man, it gave me this total everglow!’ “I was like, ‘What an amazing word.’ Then the song came completely out, and to me, it’s about – whether it’s a loved one or a situation or a friend
or a relationship that’s finished or someone’s passed away – I was really thinking about, after you’ve been through the sadness of something, you also get this everglow. That’s what it’s about.” The album, A Head Full of Dreams, was certainly meant to be outgoing and eccentric however ‘Everglow’ strips back that rawness and provides a humble and powerful ballad to even out the album. Coldplay’s eccentric music can sometimes be overwhelming and messy, however when they take it back to basics and produce classic, timeless ballads like this we are reminded why they remain such a consistent force in the music industry.
engahr kicked off their tour with a free show at Sheffield’s hipster hotspot Bungalows Bungalows and Bears & Bears. That certainly paid off ««« in numbers as the psychedelic indie band drew an overflowing Rama Alsammouah sea of people to the venue. Music Contributor
Gengahr’s lead singer Felix sings with his eyes closed about witches and ghosts, with so much passion and emotion that you can’t help but close your eyes to try and take it all in and follow him to that supernatural place he’s singing about. But then you’re brought back to
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Abbie Smyth Music Contributor
or their newest single from the Head Full of Dreams album, Coldplay have released a pianoled ballad titled, ‘Everglow’. Chris martin premiered the track, which features very subtle background vocals from his ex-wife Gwenyth Paltrow, on Zane Lowe’s Beats 1 radio show just eight days before Coldplay’s release of their
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picks from newest album, Here. Released in September, it sounds as enduring and as complete as any work they have put out. Its songs sit comfortably alongside the set’s classic crowd-pleasers.
“Their music is not just proto-Britpop, but proto-everything that came as a result of Britpop.” Their music is not just protoBritpop, but proto-everything that came as a result of Britpop. But the reach of their influence has dogged them to an extent. Having passed the baton onto everyone from Travis to more recent slacker bands like Yuck, Teenage Fanclub have found themselves baton-less, continuing to race steadily around the track since the mid-2000s.
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Penthouse Floor - John Legend
«««« Matthew Blomefield Music Contributor
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t has been three years since John Legend’s inescapable smash single ‘All of Me’ landed in 2013, and he’s returned with something different in the form of ‘Penthouse Floor’. Singing over a minimalist, tight beat, with barely-there bass guitar, Legend sounds inspired, which may have something to do with rising star Chance the Rapper featuring on the single, using his
reality when you hear Felix joking between songs. And you see their guitarist John - who may be the most energetic out of the bunch, jumping and head-banging at all the right moments just as the music gets louder and more aggressive. Their set list has a natural flow with their songs almost merging together as one long continuous and cohesive piece. But then they play singles like ‘Heroine’ and there is an instant shift of increased attention and hype from the crowd as they all begin to mouth back the lyrics. Along with Gengahr playing other fan favourites like ‘She’s A Witch’, they also treated us to some new unreleased songs they’ve been working on. As they began playing those songs you can see the room ignite in excitement and anticipation to hear the new tunes from Gengahr’s second upcoming album. The new tunes certainly sound like Gengahr, but if you weren’t told they were new you’d probably think
The night’s performance plays out like an allegory for this paradox. While dignified and unassuming, there are times when something about it feels a little immobile, almost defeatist in the way they go through the motions, exactly how you’d expect bands in the more mature stages of their career to do. Despite this, the show proves to be a delightful tour in Britpop nostalgia. Teenage Fanclub dutifully treat fans to a carousel of top picks from the 1990s albums Bandwagonesque, Grand Prix, and Songs from Northern Britain. Less a night of entertainment for its own sake so much as a showcase in the musical landscape of the past quarter-century, it serves its purpose as a reminder of the mark they left on the decade, and on the genre.
trademark, unpredictable flow. The song adds instrumentation and holds it back in equal measure as it develops, filling up the atmosphere and building up tension. This is certainly more inventive than ‘Love Me Now’, the first single. Whilst it was enjoyable, it didn’t offer a surprise for the listener. ‘Penthouse Floor’ shows Legend is not content to rest on his laurels after the worldwide success of ‘All of Me’; he is trying new sounds with new artists. If this is anything to go by, Darkness and Light will be an album to seek out.
it’s just any other song of theirs. Every Gengahr member played their part to the maximum, although their drummer Danny blended into the background and was almost forgotten. But, they all worked cohesively together as a band to make their united front be the centre of attention, which is rare to find in bands, as you usually have one or two members stealing the entire spotlight. Overall, Gengahr sound as good as they do on their recorded album A Dream Outside and their live presence is solid and cohesive, so if you like this genre of music you will not be disappointed. They should be at the top of your gig list, that’s for sure!
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hen Leonard Cohen was 15, he discovered Federico Garcia Lorca and the consolations of poetry. Around the same time, he also began showing an interest in Jesus as a universal figure, regarding him as a man of unparalleled generosity and madness. Each verse, both biblical and poetic, hit him like a ray of blinding white light. And therein lay Cohen’s genius: to embrace his own psychic and sensual carnage, and create some of the greatest documented beauty the world has ever heard. You don’t so much as hear a Cohen song as you experience one. One thing that remained consistent throughout his sixdecade long career as a musician was his unnerving control over the music, both onstage and off. For every airtight and rhythmic couplet, there is an equally polished chord kissing it goodbye. I remember the first Cohen song I ever heard sending me into a spiral of self-evaluation, inspired from the moment he told me, “You live your life as if it’s real” in ‘A Thousand Kisses Deep’. I felt his cold embrace, his sly caress. You see a man in a suit, lying in his room for days on end. Whilst his voice swooned with emotion on every album, Cohen’s face gave you barely anything. Cohen is the kind of artist who managed to carve a career out of creating art wrapped in intense, intellectual significance and surviving off the prestige of being a coveted member of that group of artists that created lifelong bonds between themselves and their listeners. Once you hear him, you can’t go back. Over the course of his prolific career, Cohen introduced us through his music to his misunderstood gang of misfits: the enticing traveller of ‘Suzanne’; the beauty-obsessed protagonist of ‘Chelsea Hotel No. 2’; the self-offering romantic of ‘I’m Your Man’. Even ‘Hallelujah’, surely the world’s most covered song of all time, will go down as an epic poem drawn from the Book of Judges as a diagnosis of the human condition and youthful dreams of love. His stories of being tied to chairs and sunbathing on roofs are experiences within an experience. Cohen took you places you’d never been to before and left you there. And now he’s left us for good. His death almost seems impossible. After spending decades analysing his relationship with his own mortality, it’s strange to think that now he has the answers. Leonard Cohen was a tyrant who knew things about you and me, a fictional character who spoke a private, intimate language with few. “I’d die for the truth” he sang on ‘In My Secret Life’. In his own long-lasting and legendary way - he has. - Ethan Hemmati RIP - 1934-2016
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press.screen@forgetoday.com
Interview.
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FRIDAY 25 NOVEMBER 2016
Becki McKechnie of E.D.E.N. Film Productions meets with Screen Editor Beth Andralojc to discuss E.D.E.N.’s recent film festival Transforming Cinema and the importance of authentic represenation in transgender film.
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What was the original idea behind the Transforming Cinema festival? It was born from a project we did in 2014 called E.D.E.N. Action! which aimed to increase the employability skills of unemployed LGBT people in Sheffield and the surrounding areas. We ran workshops and training events for participants creating three five-minute shorts; one of the films focussed on transgender representation and through observing it being made, we came to the realisation that five minutes just wasn’t enough time to cover such an important subject. We also didn’t have the resources to do it justice, so we decided to give the film its own platform with a bigger budget. Off the back of that, we ran another project: Trashing Transphobia. It’s a feature length film that we shot last year, focussing on the mainstream understanding of trans issues. This went down a storm - we sold out at our Odeon screening! What aims are you trying to achieve with your own film making projects and the festival in general? Hosting the film festival means that filmmakers have a platform to come together and share their work. It’s a celebration of that work and a recognition of their importance in society. Through creating this event, we want to inspire the filmmakers to take pride in their work and their role within society. We also wanted to give trans cinema a platform within the local community. Sheffield has always prided itself on being an all-inclusive city. The festival is important as it underlines the importance of trans representation and the welcoming nature of the city. We are bringing different groups of people together and celebrating our differences – which is what we believe Sheffield is all about.
Who is featured in the festival ? As well as the four films from our own project EDEN Shorts, we have a hugely diverse range of films and speakers participating. We have films from around the world being screened at the festival and we pride our event on representing the trans community on an international scale, not just locally. As well as garnering a lot of local attention, we have attracted people from across the globe, which we are extremely pleased about. We have the cast and crew from one of the films coming over from France to the screening of their film In The Mirror, which is fantastic. Why do you feel that it is important to focus on trans people and stories specifically? We feel that it is extremely important because the trans community is too often underrepresented or misrepresented in mainstream cinema by film makers/ organisations that have had a limited experience of the issues trans people face. Not only are the people we work with exceptional filmmakers, they have the experience and knowledge to authentically translate stories and issues faced by the trans community. We wanted to give members of the transgender community the platform to convey stories personal to them. In regard to the films made through the EDEN Shorts project that will be shown at the festival, do you feel that the filmmakers have been given a louder voice within the local community than before? I can’t speak for the individuals themselves, but from watching the behind-the-scenes film that was shot throughout the project, you can definitely see how the participants grew in confidence, both in themselves and in their skills. For many, it was really valuable as they developed a challenging skill whilst getting to bounce ideas off other filmmakers with similar visions. Taking part in the
project and working within a team with other members of the LGBT+ community I think really allowed participants to explore their film concepts. Is there a sense of community within the project teams? Meeting and working within a team of people who have had similar experiences has been really useful for the participants as it’s allowed them to develop their film ideas. Their hard work, collaboration and teamwork is evident in their films, and the festival should hopefully help them share this with the wider community. There is a definite a sense of community within the team, which is reflected through the behind-the-scenes interviews and films. In what ways would you say film provides a platform for members of the trans community and other underrepresented groups in general? Film and television, as well as online platforms like YouTube, are powerful tools. Because of this, film – whether that be online or on the cinema screen – allows you to disseminate your ideas quickly in an enticing way. Cinema and film have always had the ability to transform people’s perceptions of the world, which is one of the reasons festivals like this are so important. Through creating film, you are applying your filmmaking knowledge to entice viewers and encourage them to see things from a particular perspective. For underrepresented communities, films can be an effective way for relaying stories to viewers who may have only experienced the mainstream cinematic depiction of their community. Would you say that film connects people from different walks of life and backgrounds? Definitely. As films are extremely evocative in a variety of ways, creating a narrative allows people to get across a message to viewers
which they have struggled to put into words. Cinema is an all-round experience, which is why it is such a powerful tool for people that are trying to give an insight into their lives. It is an extremely personal thing to make a film and put your own ideas and experiences into it. However, watching a film is a universally collective experience; it’s a useful way to convey a message that is can be challenging to share face-to-face. In my opinion, this is why cinema provides such a significant platform for people who want to demystify misconceptions, particularly for members of the trans community. What are your hopes for the future of trans cinema? I want the term cinema to encompass trans cinema and LGBT cinema. Mainstream cinema that depicts trans people and narratives are too often made with little input from those that understand the issues faced by the trans community. Because of this, the narrative in mainstream cinema often misrepresents the community and runs the risk of perpetuating societal misconceptions about it. I really hope that Transforming Cinema will encourage more members of the transgender and gender non-conforming community to get involved in creating films with a focus on trans people and stories. Being able to have accurate representation within the mainstream discourse is the ideal. Cinema has the ability to change perceptions, which is why there should be more of an influence of trans filmmakers over mainstream depictions of trans people in cinema. For more info visit transformingcinema.co.uk.
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Florence Mooney Screen contributor
s we are approaching the close of 2016, it seems no exaggeration to claim that the world is the most divided than it has been in decades. If one thing can unite people in troubled times of division, it must surely be the work of JK Rowling. When the world needs her most, Rowling is back with her new Harry Potter spin-off film, Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them. In this new adventure inside Rowling’s magical world, we are transported to 1920s New York, far away from the likes of Hogwarts, Harry Potter or Voldemort. Newt Scamander, a charming and softly-spoken ‘magizoologist’ played by Eddie Redmayne, has arrived in New York with nothing but a suitcase full of an extraordinary array of magical creatures. Fantastic Beasts finds the ideal balance between containing the essence of Harry Potter’s magical world but introduces plenty of new ideas to entice the audience 1 again. The opening sequence could have come straight from a later Harry Potter film, as the
camera flies through the Warner Brothers logo and John Williams’ iconic theme chimes. However, from then on, the film is its own. Fantastic Beasts has a quiet political undertone of tolerance and acceptance: the Second Salem’s are out to get wizarding kind for the sake of them being different to themselves, and in America it seems witches and wizards aren’t allowed to marry muggles, which Scamander describes as backwards. In a film about magical animals, it is especially striking that Rowling seems to be encouraging a little more love towards one another. It would be easy to question whether this is all just a money-grabbing scheme by Warner Brothers to rake in the cash off the back of the success of Harry Potter. However, after watching the film, it is easy to see that it is from JK Rowling’s sheer love for the world she has created. Each magical creature and idea has the same wonderful depth as those in Harry’s wizarding world, and Rowling’s passion
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Nocturnal Animals ««««« Joe MacKay Lifestyle Editor
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seeps through every scene. There are moments when she appears to get carried away, making some new magical ideas slightly too complex and introducing a few too many weird and wonderful magical creatures, but these flaws are easy to look past. In a 21st Century muggle world, it is easy to lose sight of the magic, but in Fantastic Beasts it is laid bare in front of our eyes, in all it’s glory, once again.
om Ford’s (yes, that Tom Ford) second directorial feature is a film about the changing state of relationships, the importance of the arts and the value of emotion in the modern world. Nocturnal Animals often blurs the line between reality and fantasy in a way that is at once both stylish and authentic. Above all else, this film is almost perfect. Susan Morrow (Amy Adams), the disenchanted owner of a successful art gallery, receives a manuscript of the titular novel from her ex-husband Edward Sheffield (Jake Gyllenhaal), which he has dedicated to her. The narrative arc branches off down three separate routes: the present-day world of her reading the novel, the neo-noir stylised world of the novel itself, and flashbacks to her past as the story causes her to confront some unfortunate truths. As the worlds of the present and the novel intertwine, cinematography takes centre stage with camera shots that linger just that bit too long. We see wide, evocative, lonely desert landscape shots in Edward’s novel set against cold, clinical modern settings in Susan’s present, and intimate personal shots for scenes of both romance and violence. The film absolutely drips with style. Frequent allusions and subtle references to classical and modern art also aid the tone of the film and the separate worlds within: at one point Edward sits in a pose reminiscent of Rodin’s ‘The Thinker’ and Morrow’s gallery is lined by brash and abrasive Damien Hirstesque formaldehyde pieces. Darker elements of the film are
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Luke Baldwin Screen Editor
hat a steaming pile of garbage this film is, such an abhorrent representation of the sorry state of the industry that they might as well have showed audiences a screen saying “we’re conning you out of your money” for two hours. Frankly, that might have been more entertaining. Bad films can be fun, no doubt about it. But when all’s said and done, Fantastic Beasts commits the cardinal sin of cinema - it’s just so damn boring. Surprisingly, a short encyclopaedic book isn’t the best inspiration when
it comes to plot. Rather than any sort of overarching, meaningful story, Fantastic Beasts run time is filled by stuff just happening, and the viewer is expected to lap it up. The lack of content is masked by some abysmal editing, with lots of establishing shots being dragged out for ludicrous amounts of time. This makes the film tedious. Likewise, CGI is used heavily throughout the film but it fails to have any lasting impact. No matter how realistic it looks, we’ve seen the streets and buildings of Manhatten smashed to pieces a million times over the past 20 years. If you’re going to rely so much on visual effects, at least mix it up a bit (Doctor Strange kaleidoscope inspired action is a great example of this). The acting is passable, marginally better than the child actors of the Harry Potter series. But this is wasted on characters with little depth and development, with screen time instead being devoted to either silly visual gags or cutesy animals,
upsetting in nature, but Ford never pushes the boundary too far, presenting the sections tastefully.
“This is the best film of the year so far - full of depth, intrigue, drama and elegance ” This is not style over substance. There is a thick and intriguing multifaceted storyline to follow and a stellar ensemble cast of A-listers that particularly aid the film. The striking similarity between Amy Adams and Isla Fisher is no coincidence, and the reputation of these actresses only aids the multi-storey element. Gyllenhaal puts in an as smart and emotional performance as ever, and Aaron Taylor-Johnson is particularly loathesome as the villain of the piece (somewhat of a role reversal from his previous forays). Others worthy of a mention include Armie Hammer as Susan’s husband Hutton, Michael Shannon as a delightfully stereotypical Texan sheriff, and Michael Sheen as Carlos. When it comes to art and fashion, Ford’s personal experience serves as a brilliant pastiche, both utilising and criticising key tropes as he pleases, and above all else presenting story telling. This is the best film of the year so far – full of depth, intrigue, drama and elegance, it stays with you a long time after the credits roll.
no doubt to appease kids and maybe sell a toy or two.
“It’s just so damn boring” Only two groups of people will enjoy this film. Snot nosed children whose terrible parents have brought them to the cinema so the bright colours will keep them quiet for a bit, and Harry Potter nerds so blinded by their own nostalgia that they fail to see what’s being done to their beloved franchise (the current editor of a certain student newspaper might be a prime example) And until these two audiences get their act together, we’re going to get this sort of nonsense every year until the end of time.
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Ben Kempton Screen Contributor
here are many wildlife documentaries available to watch. You will always be given a generous helping of elephants, lions, giraffes and possibly even a bat or two. Planet Earth 2, however, is a new breed of wildlife documentary that catapults it into being one of the best television programmes of all time. The stunning Hollywood-esque camera quality finds you pinching yourself and questioning whether it is real or just CGI. The cinematography is also superb, some of the shots the camera operators get are works of art in themselves. There are also some stunning before and after shots of landscapes in the different seasons which are equally as mind-blowing. The show captures the most dramatic narratives nature offers. Narratives which put blockbuster story writers to shame. There is a scene including a lizard and hundreds of hungry snakes, for instance. It is the most gripping sequence of events seen on television in a long time. And to top it all off, Sir David Attenborough’s narration is simply wonderful. His beautiful distinct voice and his genius commentary are at their very best in this series. The series so far has been a documentary revelation and one which will be near impossible to top in the future.
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American Pastoral
Arrival
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Gethin Morgan Screen Contributor
Nick Burke Games Editor
wan McGregor makes his directorial debut with American Pastoral, where he also stars as as ‘Swede’, a sporting prodigy turned US Marine and heir of a successful local business. Swede and his wife have their lives turned upside down when daughter Mary (Dakota Fanning) becomes radcalised by anti-Vietnam war beliefs. McGregor deserves credit for taking on such a meaty subject matter. Juggling politics, war and race with a family drama is a difficult task, and one which he handles well for the first two acts. It’s a shame therefore when he drops those important contextual backdrops completely for the final third. Perhaps the biggest problem with the film is its focus. With the Vietnam War and the Civil Rights Movement shaping the US in the 60s, why focus on the problems of a white middle class family? It feels distasteful, especially considering recent race-related events in the US. The film comes across somewhat as ego trip for McGregor. He casts himself as the pure hero. It’s self-obsessed and boring, where’s the flaw in this lead character? In McGregor’s defence his performance is actually quite good. He anchors the film well and provides just enough emotion to keep the audience interested. McGregor’s directorial debut shows promise with a brave and original story, a stylish production and a solid lead performance. However he fails to deliver the knockout punch.
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t is impossible not to applaud Denis Villeneuve. The Quebecborn director has experienced a remarkable rise to prominence in recent years, with the harrowing Prisoners and scintillating Sicario receiving universal acclaim for their stellar acting and cinematography. Following such success, Arrival represents, on the surface at least, an exploration into uncharted territory and an unexpected shift into science fiction. Villeneuve nevertheless delivers a deep and thought-provoking movie, one whose ilk is seen all too rarely from a genre burgeoning with creative potential.
“Both visually and audibl y, the film is a treat” Go see Film Unit’s special Christmas screening. Home Alone
Film Unit Cinema in the Auditorium Wednesday 7 December 7:30PM £3 Buy One Get One Free Tickets available from the Student Union Box Office and filmunit.org.uk
Tell them we sent you!
From the very beginning, Arrival balances two separate plots. The first simulates the global reaction to an extra-terrestrial presence, exposing political and racial friction, while the other is pure science fiction mystery. Somehow this all fits together, wrapped around an emotional core that deals with some surprisingly heavy themes of loss and acceptance. If the film does nothing else, it uses the fiction of its universe here to fantastic effect. In fact, the entirety of Arrival is
new test track containing some very similar corners albeit with the added danger (as Clarkson puts «««« it) of sheep. Most of these changes are of minimal Alex Pinfold consequence besides Secretary making the show that little esides the core trio bit more brash and bonkers. of Jeremy Clarkson, It has to be said that the use Richard Hammond and James May, the basic format of the show has been largely carried s t r a i g h t over from Top Gear with some tweaks to differentiate itself somewhat. E x a m p l e s include The News being renamed Conversation Street a n d t h e
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soaked in great fiction. Its world is effortlessly well-realised, from a genuinely believable symbolic language to some of the most alien aliens seen in cinema. The movie seems eager to share it knowledge; certainly the first half in particular can feel like a primer for a linguistics course. Clearly, an impressive amount of research went into creating a unique and quasi-realistic universe, an attention to detail that is worth the admission fee all on its own. Much like Villeneuve’s previous work, Arrival isn’t pacey but it is excellently paced. Characters grow organically within a drama that takes precedence at all times, and though the mysteries of the alien presence are not revealed until late on, there is a steady drip feed of information supported by nail-biting political drama. For a medium that often seems starved of original ideas, these are the films that prove there are still some enchanting and timely stories to tell. Both visually and audibly, the film is a treat. Much like the understated CGI that won 2015’s Ex Machina the Academy Award for Best Visual Effects, it makes tasteful use of its budget, never falling back upon needless or showy effects. Equally, Jóhann Jóhannsson’s score is so unearthly that it is easy to mistake the music, at times more aggressively synthetic than melodic, for the aliens’ thrums and clicks. It all comes together as a fresh take on a science fiction soundtrack. Despite its uninspiring title, Arrival dazzles with success across the board while representing a wider
of a moving tent in place of a studio is simple genius for a show like this and it was enjoyable to see them have fun with the now run-down celebrity segments. The show revels in being compared with its BBC counterpart, even opening with a reminder of
movement within filmmaking, one attempting to push the boundaries of dramatic storytelling across all genres. Accompanied by such exciting prospects as J. C. Chandor (Margin Call, A Most Violent Year) and Rian Johnson (Looper, Star Wars: Episode VIII), movies like Arrival prove the future of cinema is in safe hands. As for Villeneuve, his filmography is becoming unerringly consistent in its quality and style. On this basis, next year’s Blade Runner 2049 (with Jóhannsson again providing the score) seems destined to be worthy of its seminal predecessor. We can only hope.
why Clarkson was in this position in the first place. Thankfully these were never taken too far to the point of feeling cheap or tasteless. This first instalment was, by the crew’s own admission, considerably more car heavy than the remainder of the series. Put simply, besides introductions, we have an hour dedicated mostly to road testing. Specifically, the score is finally settled on which hybrid hypercar is best: the McLaren P1, Porsche 938 or Ferrari La Ferrari. The new Top Gear, despite its glaring flaws, still contains some strong moments when it stopped trying to i m i t a t e
the lunacy of Clarkson & co. and focussed on the serious. In a way, this was the Grand Tour’s form of elbow jabbing; a way of saying that these may be three madmen, but they can still nail motoring journalism with or without the BBC. Just like before, The Grand Tour is at its best when Clarkson, May and Hammond are left to their own accord. Though this new show is unlikely to change your opinion of them, it is difficult to deny that their interactions and chemistry drive the show. Though some of the more scripted gags don’t quite work, this remains a smooth transition. All that remains is to see what happens when the Amazonfuelled budget is unleashed on some real mayhem.
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SportsThoughts.
Forge Sport take aim at the controversial Checkatrade Trophy yet again with Jack Wignall defending EFL sides, while the blood continues to boil as Tim Adams takes aim at the remembrance row surrounding FIFA and the FA.
Is the decision to field weakened sides that surprising?
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Jack Wignall Sport contributor
he Checkatrade Trophy is quickly becoming as popular as Sepp Blatter in the footballing world. The revamped Football League Trophy has come under fire from all angles since its rebirth this season but has come under extra scrutiny in the last week. This is due to the England Football League’s (EFL) decision to fine 12 clubs for failing to apply by their competition rules. These clubs were fined over £60,000 for breaking competition rule 7.3 which demands all teams involved to field at least five players who start either the game before or after a Checkatrade Trophy match, or players that have made the most total appearances so far through the season. Out of these 12 teams, Luton Town and Portsmouth were both fined £15,000 while Bradford City, Blackpool, Bristol Rovers, MK Dons, Millwall, Charlton Athletic, Peterborough United, Sheffield United, Southend United and Fleetwood Town were each hit with
£3,000 charges. The decision to impose these fines is because the teams in question have failed to field “fullstrength” teams in the competition. The teams have violated these rules in differing ways which is why they have been fined different amounts. Luton Town, fined the maximum amount for their offence, were charged for fielding nine academy graduates against Gillingham and seven against West Brom’s U23 team. They won both games. A League Two team’s academy players beat a Premiership team’s academy players and have been fined because of it. A club has dozens of players on their books and the book should stop with them when it comes to who they choose to represent their football club. This isn’t the only instance in which the competition is being made into a laughing stock. Bradford City made a third minute substitute by changing their first choice goalkeeper so they wouldn’t receive a bigger fine. This is potentially more of a joke than the competition’s rules. The fact Bradford have to do something like
that to skirt around the rules to field the team they want is a sad state of affairs. On top of this, team’s made these decisions despite still being fully aware of the sanctions that would come down on them. This proves the sheer idiocy of these rules. Said rules being undermined by participating teams further highlights the underlying faults at the core of the competition’s structure.
“Bradford made a third minute sub so they wouldn’t recieve a bigger fine” Off the field, it has been made clear that it is a competition that nobody involved particularly wants to be a part of. This has been reflected in the attendances of the matches in the competition so far this season across the board with many clubs having their lowest post-war attendance this season in this competition. Pressure groups have voiced their anger at the decisions made regarding the competition and has clearly had
an impact with the boycott of the Checkatrade Trophy being widely established. These rules are farcical. To fine teams for giving experience to youngsters is outrageous. It halts progress and takes away chances of development for academy prospects to further their careers in lower league teams. Yet despite this Premiership and Championship teams have a golden opportunity to develop their own academy players at the expense of lower league teams. The concept of incorporating U23 teams in to senior side competitions is not a new idea. In 2014, Greg Dyke in his role as FA Chairman, unsuccessfully attempted to introduce several “category-one” academy teams to join the lower leagues. This proposal was rejected but evidently the idea for these ‘B teams’ joining the Checkatrade Trophy is a way for the EFL to pursue their original idea and get their own way. Just like a petulant child when they are told no. Or the UK Government trying to reverse Article 50 on Brexit.
That is exactly what kind of decision this is. It is a prime example of how the powerful have all the power while the less fortunate are given fewer opportunities to consolidate their own position and only increases the gap between the two ends of the spectrum. These teams are being unfairly punished in the eyes of the majority. They are nurturing talent as well as using their clubs assets (the players) in a manner that they see fit and best suited to their football club. But apparently this is not how those in charge see things and they continue to take a firmer grip on all the club’s under their watch until there is no room for independence. There have been a lot of losers in this situation with many things being negatively affected: the Football League’s image, the development of lower league academy teams, football fans’ relationship with the beautiful game, not to mention the competition’s sponsor having their name dragged through the mud, as this is one competition that Checkatrade may regret getting involved with.
Poppy furore leaves FIFA red-faced Tim Adams Sport Contributor
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hen Canadian military doctor John McCrae wrote In Flanders Fields, he could not have imagined it would result in a row between FIFA and the English and Scottish FA. The poppy was fashioned as a symbol of remembrance for his fellow soldiers, but fast forward over 100 years and it is the centre of a geopolitical tug of war. Law 4 of the FIFA guidelines states that: “The basic compulsory equipment must not have any political, religious or personal slogans, statements or images.” A month ago football’s biggest football institution set out an ultimatum: don’t wear the poppy or face the consequences. FA Chief Executive Martin Glenn and Scottish counterpart
Stewart Regan decided to ignore the poppy ban and subsequently go ahead with the full Armistice Day remembrance ceremony, in England’s World Cup qualifying match against Scotland at Wembley on November 11.
“To ban the poppy on political grounds sets a dangerous precedent” But just how political is the poppy? Irish Nationalists, for example, see the poppy as a political symbol about Bloody Sunday, but compared to a Conservative Party emblem on an England or Scotland shirt, it is easy to note which image is more political. To ban the poppy on political grounds sets a dangerous precedent that immediately changes the setting in how we remember those who have fallen.
Both English and Scottish FA can be confident in their appeals, given the chaotic transition of highprofile positions within FIFA. The arrival of Fatma Samoura, replacing Jerome Valcke as FIFA Secretary General, was a breath of fresh air in an attempt to improve the lack of diversity within the organisation. However, her stance on poppies has drawn criticism and raised eyebrows. “Britain is not the only country that has been suffering from the result of war,” she said, forgetting that Armistice Day is to reflect and remember soldiers from every continent. Last week, football’s governing body said they were investigating the ‘non-approved pre-match ceremony’ to mark the signing of the armistice, the display of poppies from fans and the armed forces, placing poppies on seats and showing them on big screens. For FIFA’s disciplinary
Image: Wikipedia
committee to open proceedings against memorial displays such as the last post, and the presence of armed forces on the pitch, is yet another stain on one of the most mind-boggling organisations in the world. When Theresa May said “FIFA should sort their own house out before starting to tell others what to do” she raised the point that no one is currently likely to take FIFA
seriously. In 2011 the organisation agreed a deal with the English, Scottish and Welsh FAs, allowing poppies on matchday shirts. If they were to take FIFA to court, this might be sufficient evidence in an attempt to win a legal battle at the Court of Arbitration for Sport. FIFA’s controversies keep coming. A ludicrous poppy stance deserves a fierce backlash.
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United edge past nine-man Shrews
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Adam May Forge Sport contributor
illy Sharp’s 12th league goal of the season helped to extend Sheffield United’s unbeaten run to 13 league games, with a win against nine-man Shrewsbury Town taking them into the automatic promotion places. Sharp opened the scoring after eight minutes when he displayed fine composure to slot home, before having a penalty-kick saved shortly after Town were reduced to ten-men. Substitute Stefan Scougall made it 2-0 to the hosts – their 18th goal in six matches in all competitions – before Shrewsbury’s Abu Ogogo was given his marching orders in first half stoppage time. The second-half saw United dominate chances and possession but they were hit with a surprise late on when Louis Dodds netted his third of the season to pull one back with just over 15 minutes remaining. United named an unchanged starting eleven from the side that beat bottom side Chesterfield 4-1 last Sunday, with Sharp, Matt Done and Mark Duffy leading the line in a three-pronged attack. The first chance came for the hosts on six minutes, when
Kieron Freeman won the ball by the halfway line before offloading to Sharp down the wing. The frontman’s cross was brought down impressively by Duffy but his shot on the turn cannoned off the foot of his own man as Shrewsbury survived. They didn’t wise up to United’s attacking prowess, however, and they were behind two minutes later when Sharp calmly slotted home into the bottom corner after latching on to a 40-yard cross-field ball by John Fleck. Shrewsbury, who entered this match on the back of three straight wins and clean-sheets, came close to an instant reply when AJ LeitchSmith’s arrowed effort was parried by Simon Moore. The home side had plenty to get excited about soon after when O’Brien brought down Daniel Lafferty from behind as he drove into the box, leaving the referee with no other option but to show the Town centre-back his marching orders. Sharp failed to capitalise from 12-yards, though, and saw his powerful penalty down the middle saved by Mark Halstead. Substitute Scougall made up for Sharp’s miss mid-way through the half when he side-footed home Freeman’s header from the by-line, Shrewsbury then lost their
discipline in first-half stoppage time when Abu Ogogo was shown a straight red for a dangerous challenge on Paul Coutts. It was a potential leg-breaker, and Coutts failed to emerge from the tunnel for the second-half, making way for Jack O’Connell. The second period, while still all United, had a slightly more sombre mood than the frenetic first. There was another goal to come but it came in the form of a Shrewsbury consolation when Louis Dodds turned in Junior Brown’s cross from close-range 18 minutes from time. It was a spirited revival but one that was almost impossible after the two first-half red cards, and it gave United yet another win in front of a 20,195-strong crowd. Blades boss Chris Wilder
believed his side should have finished off the visitors by a more comfortable margin after enduring a frustrating second-half. “It’s a strange old game. Obviously they’ve had two sent-off and got it back to 2-1.” he said. “The club haven’t had a rock solid home record for quite a long time. “That’s six wins on the bounce for us, which is fantastic, it’s 13 games unbeaten, which is great, and we’re up to second.” “I haven’t seen the penalty again,” said Wilder, “but for me he looks to just about smash it into the net so it’s a goal scoring opportunity, so that’s a sending off, and the second one, Coutts is lucky not to have broken his leg. “Fair play, they sat in, defended, and there were some unbelievable blocks from them.”
Image: Ed McCosh
Cardiff Devils down Steelers
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Adam Bailey Forge Sport contributor
ardiff Devils stunned the Sheffield Steelers after coming back from two goals down in the final period to win 4-2 at the Sheffield Arena. After losing their previous two home games against the Devils, Friday’s match looked as though Paul Thompson’s side would be celebrating a first win on home ice over their title rivals. However, four unanswered goals in the final period left the Steelers wondering how they took nothing from a game they were in complete control of for so long.
Forward Colton Fretter picked up from where he left off after being named Elite League Player of the Week, scoring two goals that looked to put the Steelers on course for victory. His first came just over seven minutes into a dominant opening period for Sheffield after brilliant play by Guillaume Desbiens. After stretching to clear the puck from inside the Sheffield zone, Desbiens raced forward down the right wing. With Fretter supporting him in the middle, Desbiens played an inch-perfect pass at full-stretch to set-up the in-form forward, who rifled low past Devils goaltender Ben Bowns. A scoreless second period
Image: Adam Bailey
followed, but the Steelers had the opportunity to double their lead early on. The hosts were awarded a penalty shot after a foul by Josh Batch, but Bowns stood tall to deny Levi Nelson.
“What looked like being the perfect weekend soon turned into an evening to forget” The Steelers were unable to capitalise on four powerplays in the second period. Bowns denied Fretter a second goal after the forward intercepted a Devils pass, while the Steelers saw another shot cleared off the line. Steelers goaltender Mustukovs was once again outstanding when called upon. He denied Guillaume Doucet when one-on-one, before making a terrific double stop to keep out the Devils and ensure the Steelers went into the final period ahead. Sheffield doubled their lead three minutes after the restart. Fretter continued his fine form, producing a sublime piece of skill to end up one-on-one, before a smart backhanded finish past Bowns to score his fifth goal in three games.
What looked like being the perfect start to the weekend for Sheffield and their fans, soon turned into an evening to forget after a fiveminute spell saw the visitors score three goals. Mustukovs made a double stop to deny Layne Ulmer and Andrew Lord, was unable to stop Sean Bentivoglio from firing home. The momentum turned when Guillaume Doucet equalised two-and-a-half minutes later, slotting the puck past the Steelers goaltender from behind the goal. 72 seconds later and the Devils were ahead for the first time after Patrick Asselin turned in Scott Hotham’s pass. After a period of sustained Sheffield pressure, Asselin sealed the Devils victory six minutes from time. Davey Phillips was caught in possession, before the Cardiff man-of-the-match forced the puck through Mustukovs’ legs. Mustukovs was taken off as the Steelers tried and pushed for a way back into the game and, despite the extra man on the attack in the final two minutes, Sheffield were unable to stop Cardiff Devils extending their lead at the top of the table to seven points. Steelers do retain four games in hand on their title rivals.
Glowing praise for Badminton event
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Ed McCosh Forge Sport Editor
ecord numbers flocked to Social Sport’s Glow in the Dark Badminton event at the Octagon on Tuesday, with proceeds going to charity. 221 attendees took part on the day, playing badminton with specialised glow-in-the-dark equipment in a darkened Octagon, with ticket sales and donations meaning over £400 was raised for Macmillan Cancer Support. Glow-in-the-Dark Badminton was part of Badminton For Macmillan Week, a nationwide initiative organised by Badminton England. Attendees paid £2 each to play in a 40-minute slot, competing and learning about badminton in the unusually dark setting of the Octagon Conference Hall. Social Sport Officers James Blencowe and Martin Cook both praised the event. Blencowe told Forge Sport: “It’s the third time we’ve ran the event and it’s the biggest Glow Badminton we’ve had to date. The turnout on the day and money raised for Macmillan is superb.” “It’s a unique event taking sport to a different environment. It means students can easily take part who don’t usually play it for teams or clubs and we’re looking forward to setting it up again in March,” Cook added. Students participating in Glowin-the-Dark Badminton left rave reviews after their time at the Octagon event. One said, “The time went too fast”, while another added, “Great fun, great songs.” A participant described the event as “once in a lifetime fun”, and one explained “I didn’t know how to play, but picked it up easily”. After yet another successful edition of the event, University of Sheffield students eagerly awaiting the chance to play will be able to enjoy a Glow-in-the-Dark Badminton outing next in 2017.
Image: James Blencowe
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Tennis 1s pair victorious but Women’s 2s go out Tennis
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Tim Adams Sport contributor
he University of Sheffield’s first teams progressed into the next round of their respected cups on Wednesday afternoon, but the Women’s 2s fell to an agonising defeat. The Women’s 1s beat Birmingham 1s 10-2, while the Men’s 1s triumphed 8-4 away at Leeds 3s. Natalie Bacon and Carla Bâceanu started the day off at Graves Leisure Centre with a comprehensive 7-6 ,
6-1 doubles win, while Ashy Foster and Helen Morse won 6-4, 6-1. The mismatch in quality between the two sides was clear during the singles, as Morse triumphed 7-5, 6-2. Bâceanu then destroyed
“Cup ties can be heated affairs, and this one was no different.”
her opponent with an incredible performance, a double bagel victory 6-0, 6-0. Foster put the victory beyond any doubt to take Sheffield into double figures, 10-0 (two points for every rubber win). Even though Bacon lost the last 1sts singles match 6-3, 4-6, 10-8 it was a very impressive performance overall from the team. Incredibly, the 2s then blew a 6-0 lead to crash out of the cup. Ying Pui Yan and Isabel Schrapler edged through their doubles match 3-6, 6-, 10-6, while another third set victory of 6-3, 5-7 10-5, from Sarah Morse and Natalie Youhana, followed. Schrapler’s 7-5, 6-1 triumph rolled the score-line to 6-0, as they seemingly eased to victory. But the lead closed to four when S. Morse fell to an unfortunate 7-6, 6-3 loss, and when Youhana lost 6-1, 6-1 the gap became two with one singles match remaining. Frustratingly for Sheffield, a partially injured Yan lost and at
6-6 the tie went to an extra-time knockout. Two singles and one doubles match occurred, the winner the first to two points, one point for a victory in each. And, heartbreakingly for the 2s, they lost both singles and doubles, crashing out of the cup. Elsewhere, the Men’s 1s beat Leeds 3s 8-4 in the Northern
Conference Cup. Captain Tom Dyakowski won both his singles and doubles matches, the latter with Alex Wood, while Vilis Vitolis triumphed in his singles. Jack Kearton was brought into the team but unfortunately lost both of his matches, partnering up with Vitolis in the doubles.
Image: Tim Adams
Women’s 3s cruise
Success for Canoe
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Sophy Crane Sport contributor
he University of Sheffield Women’s Hockey 3s team produced a strong performance against Manchester Metropolitan University 2s, winning 4-0 in their opening BUCS Challenge Cup fixture of the season. A great win for the 3s last week against York 2s meant spirits were high for Wednesday’s match. However, after some confusion about which league the Cheshirebased team were in, it was soon discovered they also in the third tier of BUCS Northern hockey, leaving Sheffield feeling positive for the game ahead. It was quickly revealed that the away team were not as strong as first thought; a weak defence and lack of counter attacks meant Sheffield dominated throughout. With MMU leaving the whole right wing unmarked Sheffield utilised and pushed forward, producing some stunning one-two passes between Sophy Crane, Lizzie Hall and Rachel Sladden. The incisive attacking play resulted in a first great goal from Megan Todd on the right wing where she made a strong shot at
goal to the bottom corner from a squared ball from Emily Young. In a flurry of penalty corners against Sheffield, and a few injuries along the way, it wasn’t all smooth for the home team with Manchester managing to get in the ‘D’ for some penalties. Thankfully for the 3s - a strongly defensive team - the goals were prevented and counters were produced.
“We were completely relentless in defence, where they didn’t have much opportunity to get through at all” - Lottie Thomas The next goal for Sheffield was from a penalty corner, a strong strike from Sophie Graham ended in a deflection from Sophy Crane, producing a score of 2-0. Heads were high at this point for Sheffield and the girls managed another goal with Rachel Sladden making a break and putting a
strong ball straight through the Manchester keeper’s legs, ending with a half time score of 3-0. Manchester struggled to keep pushing after half time and no real chances were had for them. However, the score was still to change with a strong attack from Sheffield. After the Manchester defence fell through, the keeper managed to make a save but kicked the ball to Sophy Crane who picked it up for a reverse tap in. A somewhat easy game for Sheffield meant they proceed to the quarter-finals in the Northern Conference Cup along with Sheffield Women’s 2s. Sheffield’s vice-captain Lottie Thomas told Forge Sport: “We were completely relentless in defence where they didn’t have much opportunity to get through us at all”, words epitomising the game for Sheffield. Thomas went on to commend her side for stepping up, and hopes they build on their strong performance with a tough game next week against Newcastle 3s.
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Ed McCosh Sport Editor
heffield University Canoe Club were honoured for their efforts this year at the British Canoeing Volunteer and Athlete Recognition Awards last week. SUCC took the runners-up award in the Team of the Year category, which was won by Halifax Canoe Club, at the awards ceremony in Nottingham. It was an unprecedented achievement in itself, with SUCC becoming the first university canoe club to be invited to the prestigious event at Eastwood Hall en route to collecting the trophy. The night was a celebration of the role canoe clubs across Great Britain have played in raising the sport’s profile in a year that featured success in both the Olympics and Paralympics in Rio. SUCC were recognised for a wide range of volunteering efforts, principally for raising £987.09 for Sheffield Children’s Hospital in ergothons which saw participants paddle the length of the River Don and the distance from Sheffield to Liverpool. The club’s tireless efforts in reaching out to new potential
canoers saw 80 novices take part in the Sportivate project, while SUCC ergo machines were used to assist in the South Yorkshire School Games and ‘Do it For You Day’ at local schools. The multiple ‘Give it a Go’ sessions run by the society contributed to SUCC receiving the Commitment to Inclusions gong at Sport Sheffield’s Sports Awards earlier this year. Competitive club achievements included finishing second at the National Student Rodeo and winning a boat for the second year running and taking the runners-up award in the Yorkshire Division 3 canoe polo tournament. Rosie Broadbent, who served as Training and Development Officer for two years before leaving in April, represented SUCC at the awards ceremony. Broadbent told Forge Sport: “We are truly honoured to have received this award and it’s a reflection of our hard work over the last few years. It’s great to represent universities clubs across the UK. “I am so proud of SUCC for receiving this award. It was such a fantastic opportunity to be invited to such a prestigious event, let alone win an award. I hope we can continue our ‘SUCCess’ in the future!”
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BUCS Weekly Round-up
Ed McCosh Forge Sport Editor
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here was a wealth of Cup success for the University of Sheffield’s various sporting sides this week, with 23 teams progressing to the next round in the BUCS Conference Cup or the BUCS Trophy. Sheffield also mustered up four league victories, while suffering 15 defeats. In the only draw of the week, the Men’s Rugby League 1s were held to a 22-22 stalemate in a thriller against Northumbria University 2s. Men’s and Women’s Football had mixed fortunes. The Men’s 1s beat the University of Stirling Men’s 2s 2-1 before a win for the 3s by the same scoreline against the University of Leeds 2s, but the 3s were dumped out 2-1 by the University of Liverpool 1s. Sheffield Women’s 1s cantered to a 6-0 win over Liverpool, but the 2s were beaten 5-0 by the University of Salford 1s. It was a clean sweep for the Women’s Hockey sides; the 1s beat the University of Strathclyde 1s 4-0, the 2s enjoyed a 7-0 success over Edge Hill University 1s, the 3s defeated Manchester Metropolitan (see page 47) and the 4s completed the clean sweep with a win over Newcastle University 4s. Sheffield Golf 1s cantered to victory over Manchester Metropolitan 3s, and Table Tennis Men enjoyed double delight as the 1s beat the University of Nottingham Men’s 3s 9-5, while the 2s defeated Strathclyde 1s 10-2. The Women’s and Men’s Tennis 1s both continue into the next round, with the former beating the University of Birmingham 10-2. There were also Cup wins for the Squash Men’s 2s and 3s, the Lacrosse Men’s and Women’s 1s, and the Fencing Women’s and Men’s 1s. Basketball Men’s 2s, Netball 4s, Badminton Men’s 2s and Rugby Union Men’s 1s all won.
Star performers In one of the few BUCS league fixtures played this week, there was success in the American Football as the Sheffield Sabres crushed the University of Manchester 32-0 in a shutout.
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Hockey 1s too strong for MMU
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Adam Bailey Sport Contributor
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he University of Sheffield Men’s Hockey 1s progressed into the last16 of the BUCS Trophy after a comfortable 5-1 victory over Manchester Metropolitan University Men’s 1s. It is the second time Sheffield have scored five goals against the Cheshire outfit this season, having already beaten the visitors 5-2 in the league. But despite dominating the proceedings at Goodwin, the opening 20 minutes tested the hosts’ patience. Joe Kopka was denied by the goalkeeper’s legs as he closed in on the MMU goal, before the goalkeeper produced a terrific stretching save to deny the hosts again as Nick Hale’s shot from a penalty corner looked destined for the top right corner. Sheffield were denied once more
from a penalty corner. This time the goalkeeper needed help from his defence to block George Collier’s shot and clear Jack Culmer’s effort from off the line, before the keeper made a good reflex save to deny the rebound. It was only going to be a matter of time, before the hosts seized the advantage and their patience was rewarded in the 21st minute. Gavin Haseler broke the deadlock, redirecting Culmer’s pass into the net from close-range It wasn’t long before the hosts were celebrating again as Joe Kopka turned home Nick Hale’s pass beyond the reach of the MMU keeper. Hale found the net himself four minutes later, taking advantage of Sheffield’s sixth penalty corner of the first-half. Hale hit his shot with power, pace and precision into the back of
the net and, barring a miraculous second-half comeback, Hale’s goal put the game beyond MMU at halftime. There was no sign of a potential comeback in the early exchanges of the second-half as Sheffield looked to extend their lead further. The hosts spent most of the opening 10 minutes after the restart in and around MMU’s ‘D’ as Jack Coulson saw his close-range shot saved by the goalkeeper’s foot, before his rebound attempt hit the side of the goal.
“In the end it could have, and should have, been a cricket score” - Jack Culmer Against the run of play, MMU pulled a goal back 10 minutes after the restart. After withstanding Sheffield’s pressure, Jack Townsend sprung a counter-attack, before rounding goalkeeper Matt Fetzer and shooting towards the net. With the Sheffield defence closing in, Shane Warren provided
the finishing touch on the line to score what turned out to be only a consolation goal. Jack Coulson restored the host’s three-goal advantage with just over 10 minutes to play. He reacted quickest to fire the rebound home after Sheffield’s penalty corner was initially saved. Coulson scored his second and Sheffield’s fifth goal in the final few minutes to seal the victory and ensure Sheffield’s passage into the next round of the cup. The men’s 1s will now travel to the University of Leeds in the last16 of the BUCS Trophy, with a place in the quarter-finals up for grabs. Captain Jack Culmer told Forge Sport: “We are very happy to have progressed into the next round. I was a little panicky 20 minutes into the game with all those chances flashing past the post, but in the end it could have, and should have, been a cricket score. “Leeds are a league above us so it will be a tough game, but we are aspiring to be in that league so it will be a really good test for us to see how we fare against them.”
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