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ISSUE 877 OCTOBER 13 2008 CARDIFF’S STUDENT WEEKLY free word - EST. 1972

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WELSH STUDENTS: £1890 OUT OF POCKET? FULL STORY - PAGE 3

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RANK INJUSTICE

Cardiff University slides 34 places in Times rankings and drops out of top 100 universities worldwide Rankings spark debate over future of UK university funding

Emma Barlow News Editor Cardiff University has dramatically slipped from number 99 to 133 in the list of the top 200 universities in the world according to the Times Higher Education - QS World University Rankings.

The list was published in the Times Higher Education Supplement last Thursday and has evoked mixed reactions on both sides of the Atlantic, with many fearing the newly-released information spells bad news for UK universities in general and highlights the problem of under-funding in Brit-

ish higher education.

Of the top 100 universities, only 17 in the new list are from the UK, two fewer than in 2007 after Cardiff fell 34 places and the University of Leeds went from 80th to 104th.

The rankings are based on interviews with 6,354 academics from 2,339 universities and on other factors including the staff-to-student ratio found in each institution, and does not take into account some of Cardiff’s notable achievements, such as and the praise it received in an independent review last week and Sir Martin Evans's award of the Nobel Prize for Medicine last October.

A Cardiff University spokesperson played down the results. They said: "While success in league tables is always pleasant, our ground-breaking research, innovative teaching and high-quality students, all of which are respected worldwide, are far more important."

"The Times Higher ranking is in no way a reflection on Cardiff University's absolute levels of performance.

The league table is simply suggesting that other world competitors have risen faster," they added.

The league table reveals that 22 of the 29 British universities in the top 200 in the world have moved down

the table in the past year, including Cambridge and Oxford.

The universities of Cambridge and Oxford both enjoyed joint second place last year along with Yale but have now fallen into fourth and third respectively, leaving the US Ivy League universities to take the top two spots.

Dr Wendy Piatt, who is the director general of the Russell Group, an organisation made up of leading UK research universities including Cardiff University, said she welcomed the strong presence of British institutions towards the top of the list but has concerns about whether Britain’s top in-

stitutions will be able to maintain their current positions: “The Times Higher Education current league tables reflect the growing strength of our major competitors, particularly US institutions who benefit from much higher levels of investment.”

Inadequate funding has largely been blamed for the slide down the league, which many British universities have experienced.

Continued on page three

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NEWS

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this week in gair rhydd: The Boy Thunder: on smoking

09 Features: Tackling breast cancer

10

Politics: smashing student apathy DE GAIR RHYDD EE INSI ...FR

14

the week in numbers:

29

Number of UK universities in the top 200 this year

1

Ranking of Harvard university in the top 200

ÂŁ19 Billion

Endowment given to Harvard University this year

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NEWS

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Proposed fee shake up may leave the Welsh worse off Emma Barlow News Editor Welsh students studying in Welsh universities could soon find themselves out of pocket.

A report has recommended that the Welsh Assembly Government's subsidisation of fees for Welsh students should be scrapped, meaning that students living in Wales will have to pay the full cost of tuition fees.

Welsh students studying in Wales currently pay £1,200 a year in fees rather than the full £3,000. Only students from other parts of the UK have to pay the full fee, as the Welsh Assembly passed the motion for a sum of £1,890 to be given to Welsh students in order to help them with fees.

A team was put together to review

Cardiff out of Top 100 Continued from front page The US invests over twice as much as the UK on higher education, and their major research-intensive universities are amongst the largest beneficiaries.

Harvard, for example, which is ranked number one for the fifth year running, charges undergraduates £18,662 a year in tuition fees, while English and Northern Irish universities are capped at £3,145.

Dr Piatt added: “The endowment fund of the University of Harvard alone is greater than the total public funding for all universities in England in any given year.”

However, some are looking on the bright side, including Sally Hunt, general secretary of the University and Colleges union. She said: “That so much is delivered with less funding makes the achievements of our universities and, in particular, their staff all the more impressive.”

A separate analysis of the figures showed the universities assessed by the value for money they offer, compared with Harvard. Oxford is at number four in the table but is 31% cheaper - including fees and living costs - than Harvard, while the University of Tokyo, ranked 19th, is 85% cheaper.

Ann Mroz, editor of Times Higher Education, said: “Harvard may be No 1 in the world, but it costs 50% more [in fees] to attend than the No 4-ranking University of Oxford.”

David Lammy, Minister for Higher Education, said: “Having four English universities in the global top 10 is still further evidence that our higher education system is world-class.”

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higher education funding in Wales in June 2008, led by the Vice Chancellor of Bangor University, Professor Merfyn Jones.

In place of the reduced fees for Welsh students, the review proposes a new system of financial aid dependent upon family income.

Students from less financially privileged backgrounds could apply for up to £6,000 a year, which they could either use to pay off their tuition fees or use as a living allowance throughout the year.

The revised system would also see an increase in the amount the Assembly Learning Grant (ALG) gives to the most disadvantaged students.

But providing extra funding for the poorest students means that the £1,890 currently given to all Welsh students will have to be scrapped.

Another important change proposed by the review team was the raising of the salary margin for when students have to start repaying their loans. The group would like to see graduates earning between £18,000 and £20,000, instead of the current £15,000, before they start repayments.

The results of the first phase of the review have recently been passed onto Education Minister Jane Hutt. A spokesperson for the Welsh Assembly Government said: “The Minister will now consider this very important piece of work with her cabinet colleagues and will formally respond in November.”

Conservative Shadow Minister for Education Andrew Davies said the report recommendations came as “little surprise” as the Assembly Government had failed to put sufficient

money into higher education.

Asked about the increase in Welsh students’ fees, Davies said: “The Assembly Government has let a funding gap with England and Scotland become unmanageable so that it looks increasingly likely parents and students are going to be forced to pay more to plug the gap.”

No changes will be made until after the 2009/2010 academic term due to the One Wales coalition document which commits the assembly government to keeping cur- r e n t spending levels in place.

Huw's home to host anniversary concert

Diabetes study underway

Sian Symons News Editor A study coordinated by Cardiff University has recruited children with the newly diagnosed type one diabetes.

The research project, funded by Diabetes UK, aims to investigate whether is it best to immediately admit sufferers to hospital on diagnosis or begin initial management from home.

The study, although led by experts at Cardiff University, is being undertaken in another seven centres across the UK. Each centre being responsible for recruiting 30 newly diagnosed children to the study.

There are opposing views concerning the care that should be given to the diabetes sufferers.

While some institutes like to admit all newly diagnosed children to hospital, others prefer them to stay at home as much as possible.

Groups of children will be randomly selected to either start treatment at home or in a hospital. Yet both groups will receive the same support and education.

Dr Iain Frame, Research Manager at Diabetes UK, said: “We hope that the study will help healthcare professionals and families to make informed decisions about the best environment in which care should take place and we look forward to seeing the results.”

Man arrested in Great Hall drugs bust Sarah Powell News Editor Cardiff is set to be the centre of attention as celebrities from the world of opera, music and media come together in a gala concert to mark the University's 125th anniversary year.

Internationally renowned Welsh opera singers, Dennis O'Neill and Rebecca Evans will be two of the headline performers at the event, which will be held on Sunday October 19 at the Wales Millennium Centre.

Alongside the Orchestra of the

Welsh National Opera, they will perform some of the world's bestloved opera songs, followed by performances from the Chamber Choir of the Cardiff University School of Music and the Cardiff International Academy of Voice.

It has also been reported that one of the highlights of the evening will be the performance of a special fanfare tribute to the University, written by leading international composer and Cardiff graduate, Karl Jenkins.

The gala concert will be hosted by Cardiff Alumnus and BAFTA Award winning journalist Huw Edwards,

who said: "I was in one of the lucky years of Cardiff students who celebrated the University's centenary, and I'm really proud to be asked to host this gala concert a quarter-century later. The line-up is terrific and the event will underline the prestige that Cardiff now has as one of Europe's leading universities."

Tickets are available to the public from the Wales Millennium Centre's Ticket and Information Office by phoning 08700 40 2000, or online at www.wmc.org.uk.

Sian Symons News Editor A wild night at Cardiff Students' Union has led to an arrest.

On Saturday October 4 a suspect was arrested on suspicion of possessing large quantities of a Class A drug.

The suspect was on his way into Hospitality, a dance music event which was occurring in the Great Hall at the time.

The suspect was released on bail.

04 gairrhydd

OCTOBER.13.2008

NEWS

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Free drugs for all, says Welsh Assembly End to free prescriptions claim is "rubbish"

Lucy Morgan Reporter The Welsh Assembly Government has denied claims that it is planning to end free prescriptions.

Free prescriptions in Wales have been employed since April 2007 and have been deemed a success by the Assembly Government.

The scheme benefits around one in five people in Wales and aims to significantly improve the nation’s health.

However, free prescriptions cost the country approximately £30m a year and, according to a story published in the News of the World, it needs to be dropped as the nation is running out of funds.

This claim was strongly denied by a spokesman for the Assembly Government who emphasised the support of this “highly popular” scheme.

In England, patients still have to pay £7.10 per prescription.

However, the popularity of the scheme in Wales appears to have been

noted by both Scotland and Northern Ireland who look set to follow suit.

Scotland aims to abolish all fees by 2011 and Northern Ireland by 2010.

The Assembly Government insists that they have “no intention of pulling the plug” on the free prescription scheme and are “delighted that Scotland and Northern Ireland are following [Wales’] lead.”

They also expressed their shock on hearing this rumour saying: “We’re at a loss to understand where this story has come from, it's a load of rub-

Vocational qualifications worry Vocational qualifications are not good preparation for university it has been revealed in a new study Charlene Anderson Reporter Students with A-levels have a higher chance of being accepted by top universities, than those with vocational backgrounds, research has shown.

A study carried out by the Higher Education Policy Institute (Hepi) found that not only are vocational students less likely to attend the UK's leading universities, but are also more likely to under perform academically and drop out, than those with traditional A-levels.

The report compared students with conventional and vocational qualifications, studying the same subjects at university.

According to its research, students with vocational level 3 qualifications

are five times less likely to be accepted by the Russell Group universities, (which includes Cardiff University) than their A-level counterparts and are three times less likely to attend a 'pre-1992' university, despite the fact that both have the same number of UCAS tariff points.

This doesn't mean that less vocational students are applying for universities, but illustrates the difference in the selection practices of universities, and could suggest universities' bias for those with conventional qualifications.

Currently the government encourages more vocational routes into higher education by introducing the 14-19 diplomas, which are partly based on vocational study, into schools. This highlights the serious nature of Hepi's study in the current

educational climate.

However, the Higher Education Minister, Bill Rammell argues that these applied A-levels offer students 'flexibility and choice over their learning', and that students could benefit from them, with better employment prospects.

He accused the report of making 'unwarranted references' to the new diplomas and stated that 'all universities will recognise the diplomas as worthwhile'.

The report does not give conclusive reasons for its findings, but suggests that it may be because vocational qualifications are not good preparation for higher education or because universities are not providing suitable programmes to make the most of vocational students capabilities.

Cardiff residents left in the dark Katie Pearce Reporter A councillor has declared that residents in Cardiff are being left in the dark due to the inadequate length of time being taken to repair streetlights.

Councillor Ramesh Patel said: “Fast repair times are essential as crimes are more likely to be committed in poorly lit areas.”

“With so many students making their way home in the small hours it is important that routes are well lit for their own safety.”

The average time taken for a faulty streetlight to be repaired in Cardiff is 6.7 days.

Cardiff was placed nineteenth in a review of 22 Welsh local authorities

concerning the repairing of streetlights.

However, Cardiff Council claim on their website that routine repairs ‘should be finished within 5 working days.’

Controversially, Pembrokeshire councillors have voted for dimming non-essential streetlights after midnight.

Powys Council has also voted in favour of this proposition as an energy saving move.

This has triggered a campaign in Powys for lights to remain on in areas more prone to crime.

It is estimated that the dimming of lights in Pembrokeshire, however, could save £213,315 annually, making it an attractive proposition for other local authorities in Wales.

Former Irish President to talk on human rights Rachel Simons Reporter Ireland’s former President, Mary Robinson, is coming to Cardiff to present a lecture.

She will talk on ‘Ethical globalization – a challenge for the 21st century’ a lecture focusing on challenges facing ‘a global society and the need to position human rights at the heart of governments and policy-making’.

During her time as President Mrs Robinson was praised for her humanitarian approach to conflict and went on to become United Nations High

Commissioner for Human Rights.

The free lecture on November 7th will be the first of the Hadyn Ellis Distinguished Lectures, a tribute to Cardiff’s former Vice-Chancellor and celebrating the University’s 125th anniversary celebrations.

It will occur in the Julian Hodge building on Colum Drive and commence at 7.45pm, with a pre-lecture reception an hour earlier.

Tickets can be obtained by emailing DenttenSE@cardiff.ac.uk or telephoning 029 20875356.

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NEWS

NEWS@gairrhydd.COM

Discounts dismissed by prudent students

Emma Barlow News Editor Jack Doran Reporter

New research has revealed that student discounts have grown increasingly irrelevant to hard up students.

According to Zebra Technologies, 54% of students polled claimed they would rather have discount on their food and transport costs, rather than

the current selection of luxury goods such as clothes and CDs. In the current economic climate of rising inflation and living costs, students are finding it increasingly difficult to make ends meet, leading to the conclusive indications of this research.

No longer are young people in the position whereby they have pools of disposable income to distribute

amongst the high street retailers enrolled on the NUS discount scheme.

Mark Thompson, retail manager of Zebra Technologies claims, "At the moment, (students) are struggling to pay for basics like rent, fees and course materials, let alone luxuries like trainers and DVDs".

Many students seek part-time work, compromising the time and attention devoted to their studies.

Thompson believes that more transport firms and food retailers should offer discounts: "Already, inflation has driven food prices to a record high, supermarkets should be offering tailored discounts to students to help them out and secure their loyalty."

Would you rather have your food and transport costs discounted over luxuries such as DVDs and clothes?

Jack Doran asks students for their views...

PHOTOS: Natalia Popova

“Why can't we have both? I'd rather it was kept how it is as I already get discount on my student railcard

“I would use my NUS card far more if it was for food and transport”

“Yes, I have used my NUS card only once!

Discount for nightclubs is useful but I would use it more if food and transport costs were lowered”

“I use my NUS card and like it the way it is, although food discounts would be useful”

“I have no use for transport discounts.

I find the discounts available on books and clothes very useful”

Mark Hillsley, Second year Ecology

Collette Parr, Third year Religious Studies and Theology

Alex Maitland, First year Philosophy and Politics

Elaine Mawbey, Phd in Earth Sciences

Sarah Crielesi, Second Year French and Italian

Graduate grief over loans Free education: now in circulation Victoria Beddow Reporter Graduates face tough times to come as they struggle to repay their student loans.

From higher inflation rates to the credit crunch crisis, the student loan cannot be classed as ‘cheap’.

A third of students who started university since the fees were introduced in 1998 are earning too little to repay their loans. With so many graduates not yet earning above the £15,000 threshold, things are only set to get worse as firms cut down on recruitment in the credit crunch.

Currently, the rate of inflation is running at 4.8% and student leaders

suggest that cheap loans for students are no longer available. One graduate said she had paid £650 in the last year on a £12,000 debt. Yet, after the RPI was added, she had actually only paid off £70 of her original loan.

Since students are already taking up to seven years to repay their debts, the financial return on student debts is only set to get slower.

Stephen Williams, the Lib Dem spokesman for universities claims: “As the financial crisis worsens the burden on new graduates is going to be even greater”.

As jobs become increasingly scarce and the cost of living continues to grow, the outlook for student finance is bleak.

Kacie Morgan Reporter A campaign set up by the UK Youth Parliament to abolish tuition fees has reached a new level this week, as protestors have sent over 9,000 anti tuition-fee pound coins into circulation in the House of Commons at Westminster.

The coins bear stickers stating 'Free For All' in a bid to emphasise concerns about the mounting financial pressure experienced by undergraduate students as a consequence of tuition fees, which may now be as high as £3,145 per academic year.

James Greenhalgh, MYP and national campaigns coordinator has

warned that going to university has become a game of 'Russian roulette', in which the financial situations of thousands of students could be at risk of significant debt.

However, while the National Union of Students is keen to transform the administration of tuition fees, the organisation has agreed that it does seem reasonable for graduates to contribute something towards their education.

The UK Youth Parliament disagrees. Greenhalgh states: "Education should be free for all young people and we will not stop until the injustices this flawed tuition fee system has created are brought to an end."

06 gairrhydd

OCTOBER.13.2008

WORLD NEWS Also in the news...

Sarah Powell News Editor

Barbie car

NEWS@gairrhydd.COM

To infinity and Flight of the beyond penguins Penguins rescued by air force planes

A new car is being designed especially for women.

Iran’s biggest car producer, Iran Khodro, is creating the car to include various special features to market the car to women.

Its features include automatic transmission, parking and navigation aids, as well as a jack for changing tyres without getting grease on clothing.

Car producers say that it will come in a range of feminine colours and interior designs.

Monkeying around

A Japanese restaurant has two unusual members of staff.

Two macaque monkeys make up the waiting staff, serving customers towels and hot drinks.

Yatchan and Fukuchan are family pets who are allowed to help in the bar, and are given soya beans as tips.

Strict animal rights regulations mean that the premisis has been visited to check that the animals are not being mistreated.

Water into wine Residents in the south of Rome were shocked when wine started flowing through their taps during a famous Italian wine festival.

Every year authorities interrupt the town plumbing to channel wine through the fountains in the town centre.

But this year the wine was accidentally channelled into residents' homes, leaving the festivities rather dampened!

Katy Gorman Reporter

Vikki Litherland Reporter A Swiss airline pilot has crossed the English Channel in 13 minutes – with the help of four turbine engines and a wing made of fibreglass.

Yves Rossy sped across the channel at 125mph after jumping from a plane that was hovering over France before the turbine engines powered him to the English coast.

After landing safely in Dover, the 49-year-old, whose exploits have lead to some comparing him to Buzz Lightyear, described the whole experience as 'great, really great'.

When asked how he did it, Yves

replied that he arched his back in order to climb and pointed his head towards the ground when he wanted to descend.

He also said: 'I navigate only with my eyes and with the sun. The feeling is great. You don't steer it: you only fly with your body. It is overwhelming.'

The 22-mile route that he undertook was the same one that pilot Louis Bleriot, the first man to fly across the channel, followed in 1908.

Meanwhile, Yves already has his next couple of adventures planned, including flying over the Grand Canyon and forming an aerobatics team, using jet packs.

He intends to take five other daredevils with him and 'be like the Red Arrows just with our bodies'.

Hundreds of penguins that migrated to Brazil's coastline have been brought back home by air force planes.

The birds, whose natural habitat is in the South Atlantic Ocean, migrate north every year in search of food.

But in this case authorities have been left shocked by the distances covered.

Some penguins are believed to have travelled more than 3000 miles from near to the Southern tip of South America.

Over 1000 penguins are now said to have washed up on Brazil's shores, with some sadly dying on the way.

The sudden change in the birds' migration pattern could be linked to a shortage of fish or possibly changes in water temperatures or manmade pollution.

This week hundreds of penguins were flown in a Hercules plane down to the South of Brazil where they are being released into the ocean, whilst others are to return on a navy vessel.

However, some lucky penguins that

were exhausted by their long journey are being awarded some recovery time in sunny Bahia – an area of Brazil famous for its beautiful beaches and pleasant climate.

Ukraine snd txts in 2 space Sarah Powell News Editor Messages have been sent to a planet 20 light years from Earth in a recent attempt to contact intelligent alien life.

At least 501 pictures, drawings and text messages have been collected through a competition by the social networking website Bebo, and trasmitted through radio waves by a giant telescope in Ukraine.

The competition asked members to send in messages that they believed extra-terriestrials would like to receive, and resulted in messages which discussed topics ranging from the environment, politics and world peace, to family relationships.

These messages were then translated into binary format and will travel 120 trillion miles into space.

Organisers hope that the messages will reach their target- the planet Gliese 581C, which was chosen because it is believed to have the potential to support life- in early 2029.

Seth Shostak, a senior astronomer from the Search for Extra Terrestrial Intelligence Institute in California, said whether aliens who might receive the messages would understand them was beside the point.

“The point might simply be: well, here we are; we’re clever enough to build a radio transmitter,” “So if anybody’s out there and they find that signal, they at least know that, in the direction of that star system over there, there must be a planet with some pretty clever things on it.”

Organisers believe that any reply to the messages would not reach Earth for 40 years.

gairrhydd

OCTOBER.13.2008

OPINION

OPINION@gairrhydd.COM

freewords Est. 1972

Rank Injustice he news that Cardiff University has slid 34 places in the Times Higher Education QS World University Rankings must have come as a staggering blow to all at the University.

It has been a year that has witnessed strong academic progress, including the award of the Nobel Prize for Medicine to Sir Martin Evans for his ground-breaking discoveries concerning embryonic stem cells. Nobody would dispute that Cardiff University is a world-class university.

It is, however, no longer a top 100 university, joining a multitude of UK institutions that have stuttered and slumped down the rankings this year.

Even Cambridge, one of the most prestigious universities, has lost its coveted position as second best institution in the world to Yale - a major blow to such a competitive and prestigious university.

Commentators have duly noted the prominent downward slip of UK universities, and their observations may well prefigure a funding overhaul that will change the face of higher education in the UK forever.

The general consensus seems to be that money is the single largest contributing factor to an institution's performance.

Commentators suggest that this is why the US has performed so well in the rankings.

Over the past month we have witnessed an enormous amount of fervent debate over the future of higher education funding, from the launch of the NUS's Broke and Broken HE funding campaign to the chancellor of Oxford University's insistence that the cap on fees must go.

Change is on the horizon, and it seems at the moment that a raise of the cap on fees is the most likely outcome. The next few weeks will likely see an increase in calls for the cap to be raised, as institutions panic over their flagging performance.

Whether we sit back and accept a rise in tuition fees or protest the rise is a decision that will very likely have to be made this year. One thing is for sure, however: the money has to come from somewhere.

Ben Bryant

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Editor Ben Bryant Deputy Editor Hazel Plush Co-ordinator Elaine Morgan News Emma Barlow Emma Jones Sarah Powell Sian Symons Editorial and Opinion Jamie Thunder Emma Davies

07

Generation Y bother?

The US election looms, but should us Brits even care? Elise Martin tackles our political apathy

OBAMA: could be making history hat could you tell me about British politics?

Could you tell me who the leader of the Conservative Party is? Possibly you could, but do you know what his ideals are, what his policies are, what he intends to do for Britain?

Politics in Britain are brushed over: there is so much media surrounding the controversy and behaviour of politicians that not many British people seem to be familiar with their intentions. With politics in this shape in Britain, how can we possibly influence the outcome of the US Presidential election?

It is my belief that we, as British citizens, should pay closer attention to US politics because they are an influential part of our economy. With its influence over British banks and businesses, if America’s economy slumps then so does ours, so, in effect, Britain

W

Politics Gareth Ludkin Sport Scott D’Arcy Rhona Morris Josh Pettitt Richard Williams Liz Wray Letters Laurel Burn Features Ceri Isfryn Aimee Steen Listings

should be interested about who the next leader is of a country that has helped and aided us through troubled times.

Since the end of World War II, America has come to dominate and has appeared as a world superpower due to its investments in the military and their development of military weapons.

If there is a radical change in the President, previous aids may no longer be available If there is a radical change in the type of person who becomes the next US President in comparison to their predecessor, then those aids that were

Sim Eckstein Television Sarah George Tim Brandon TV Helen TV Tom Five Minute Fun Kate Eaton Tafod Dafydd Loughran Picture Editor Natalia Popova Online Editors Paul Springett

Tom Barnett Sub Editor Graeme Porteous Proof Readers Francesca Russell Kaylie Mackenzie Sarah George Neil Fairbrother Laurel Burn Siobhan McGurk Rachel Greenwood Reyi Lim Emma Davies Contributors

once available to us may not be there anymore. In my opinion, if you don’t care about who our Prime Minister is and you don’t vote, or you don’t care about who the next US President is going to be, then you cannot complain when things go wrong. If you don’t put anything into it when you get the chance, you don’t get your say when things don’t go as you would like.

There is a lot of controversy surrounding this election due to the fact that America could potentially have an African American President for the first time. Barack Obama seems, at the moment, to be the front-runner to his opposition, John McCain. I think everyone should be interested in this at least, because history could unfold right in front of us. America assumes that everyone will be watching the results of the election unfold, but that may not be the case.

Britain seems to be a politically apathetic nation, with its number of voters decreasing. It is my belief that this is because young people don’t get the information about politics taught to them when they grow up, so when they reach the age that they are able to vote, they don’t really understand what they will be voting for.

Maybe if a little politics was taught in schools, Britain would see an increasing number of voters and increasing interest in politics not just in Britain but in other areas too, such as the US elections. I do believe that our own nation’s political education system should improve before we count down the days until the next American President is elected!

In 2004, the Guardian newspaper launched a campaign named ‘Operation Clark County’ to help its readers “have a say in” the 2004 US Presidential election. Thousands of Americans wrote back to the Guardian with mixed opinions on this campaign, and one in particular had a very strong view: “KEEP YOUR FUCKIN' LIMEY HANDS OFF OUR ELECTION. HEY, SHITHEADS, REMEMBER THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR? REMEMBER THE WAR OF 1812?

WE DIDN'T WANT YOU, OR YOUR POLITICS HERE, THAT'S WHY WE KICKED YOUR ASSES OUT. FOR THE 47% OF YOU Lucy Morgan, Katie Pearce, Rachel Simons, Charlene Anderson, Jock Doran, Victoria Beddow, Kacie Morgan, Vikki Litherland, Katy Gorman, Elise Martin, Corey Shefman, Miranda Knox, Paul Strollery, Polly Lord, Eric Blair, Matthew Foster, Natalia Popova, Sara Orwig, Elin Gwyn, Marc Edwars, Ceri Isfryn Address

WHO DON'T WANT PRESIDENT BUSH, I SAY THIS ... TOUGH SHIT! PROUD AMERICAN VOTING FOR BUSH!” This particular person strongly didn’t want the opinions of us Brits then, and what’s to say that this opinion has changed since? Some Americans perceive their country as such a superpower that they don’t need – or want – the opinions or help of other nations. If they feel this way towards us then why should we give them any attention at all?

If politics was taught in schools, there would be increased numbers of voters

I believe that we should pay some attention to the US elections because they are a dominant nation and the American president has great duty to its people and to the world. Even though we have no say in the outcome of the election, it is an important event and this could be a particularly historic one at that.

However, British people seem to be cynical when it comes to politics and have a belief that nothing will ever change, and have a “really not bothered” attitude.

I do believe strongly, though, that British people should become more engaged with the political system and this can be improved by introducing it to people at younger ages. I believe that if this had happened when I was younger, I would have a greater understanding of it than I do now. We should not forget, however, that it is completely individual and we cannot enforce politics on anyone.

I think that the US election is important for the stability of British economy and businesses but for the average person it isn’t necessary to pay that much attention to it: there is so much media hype surrounding it and we have no influence over the outcome. I believe we should pay closer attention to the elections that we can have a say in.

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07 gairrhydd

OPINION

OCTOBER.13.2008 OPINION@gairrhydd.COM

A degree of usefulness

Canuck in Cardiff Media student Miranda Knox takes on the haters Corey Shefman talks initiation

T

wo years ago at Canada's McGill University, ranked 12th in the world, a scandal broke. It was called ‘Doctor Broom’, and it saw the not-so-secret underworld of university initiations, known as ‘hazing’ when they go beyond fun and turn abusive, dangerous and humiliating, become very public.

When ‘welcoming’ new members of the American football team, veterans forced the first-years to binge drink and kneel, and tapped the end of a broom against their buttocks, the insinuation being that they were preparing to penetrate them.

They never intended to put the broomstick anywhere it wasn’t meant to be, but when one student broke the unwritten code of silence and came forward, the news made national headlines. Aside from the homophobia common to much hazing, activities can including things like nudity, drug use, binge drinking, humiliation, name-calling and sexual harassment or assault. Initiations rarely include all of these activities, but if it includes even one of them, it is likely to be hazing.

I wasn't surprised to see the recent investigative report in gair rhydd, though the BBC report on the Gloucestershire initiation featuring Nazi uniforms was a bit shocking.

What really surprised me was how rampant hazing seems to be here.

One of the best things to come out of the fraternity system in North America is the term hazing and its rejection as absolutely unacceptable.

The important distinction here is between initiation and hazing.

Forcing someone to drink six beers on a coach is initiation. Forcing them to drink six beers on a coach after drinking a bottle of wine and unhealthy amounts of vodka while sleep-deprived (as described in last week’s gair rhydd) is hazing. The argument that it’s voluntary and anyone can say no is total bull. Almost all of the time, any student refusing to take part will at best be ostracized from the group and at worst made to complete the activities against their will.

What’s worse is that, according to the story, Cardiff students really don’t think hazing is a big deal. Besides being dangerous physically, initiation rituals are often humiliating and discriminatory in nature.

The time for talk is over. The NUS and Cardiff Students' Union presidents have both called rituals like this unacceptable but it’s time for action. We need dialogue on this issue between the CUSU and the AU and there needs to be a crackdown on societies, clubs and teams who practice hazing. If you want to welcome someone to your group, take them out for a beer, don’t humiliate them – it’s just common sense.

A

s a media student, perhaps I’m too stupid to understand or comment on such a complex issue. But I struggle to understand why some people think it is their right to belittle degrees that aren’t of their particular field of interest, or claim to be doing a ‘real’ subject. I fail to understand how criticising their usefulness or relevance and claiming them to be a complete and utter waste of time is constructive. Obviously only the most terrible of universities would be idiotic enough to have worthless subjects such as Journalism, Communication or Cultural Studies being taught at their institution.

Never mind that Cardiff, a respected establishment that has been around since 1883, deems such subjects worthy of recognition. I find it strange that despite going to the same highly thought-of university, some of us find ourselves to be considered inferior for their choice of degree.

Why is learning about the media regarded as a waste of time?

Not everyone is destined to study the traditionally academic subjects but who has the right to say that’s any less worthy? Subjects such as Sports Science, Psychology and Sociology may be new in comparison to others, but the world is continually changing, so surely there should be room for new degrees to be accepted as valid career choices, and not just brushed aside.

After all, English Literature was scorned when it was first introduced as a degree. Now, years later, it is regarded as a perfectly legitimate choice

of study.

I’m not denying that the workload may be less hardcore than for a course such as Medicine or Law, which are rightly highly regarded courses and take a great deal of hard work. But I don’t see how that makes any other course less valid. To me, they are impossible to compare.

The skills I learn will be useful This really shows how narrowminded some people are when introduced to a new idea or concept that they are completely ignorant about.

Not all courses are designed with one career in mind, and so plenty of other skills can be gained. Research methods can be useful to know about, and through writing a dissertation, time management skills are demonstrated, as well as the ability to argue your point in a clear and coherent manner, through essays or presentations.

OK, so it’s rather obvious I’m talking about the criticism Media Studies gets in particular, but I’ve no doubt there are plenty of others who will agree that they have come across some type of ‘course snobbery’ from certain individuals who think they have the overriding right to devalue the course choice of others, claiming to be doing a real subject and generally making snide and extremely witty comments (“Journalism? What, do you just read a newspaper? Hahahaha...”).

I really can’t comprehend why learning about the media is regarded as such a waste of time, when within our everyday life we are all (to an extent) continually manipulated and influenced by it. It is crucial to be aware of and educated about this manipulation and how the media operates.

Through studying media not only

MEDIA STUDIES: it's better than Town Planning do you gain awareness about how we are - not just insulting the course but are controlled through political propa- having quite an amusing rant, for no ganda and biased reporting - the Iraq particular reason.

There will always be people who war coverage being a recent example but also learn about the field in which feel it is their right to condemn para vast number of career paths can be ticular courses but I feel it necessary taken, in print, TV or radio, to name to question what they can possibly but a few. I know for a fact I will nev- gain in doing so. I know when I leave er become a doctor or mathematician university I will not have been trained (seriously, what does a mathematician for a specific job, yet feel the critical do, anyway?) but refuse to feel infe- knowledge and skills I will gain will rior because of it. My interests simply most definitely be useful in whatever lie with a course that gives a valuable career I choose.

The life experiences of going to insight into the area in which I wish to university in general are imperative, as pursue as a career. there are so many opportunities to be taken, regardless of what subject you choose to study. I think most people would rather study a subject that they Don’t get me wrong - I certainly are genuinely interested in rather than don’t resent people on established ‘ac- what they are told they should study ademic’ courses, and not all are pre- to be considered intellectually accepttentious enough to look down on other able, and work hard to get the best people. However, there are a few that possible degree, despite the criticism like to make vague, uninformed judge- it may create. Quite frankly, spending ments. On a recent night out, I found three years of my life doing anything myself listening to a complete random else would be a complete waste of telling me how crap media students time.

It's impossible to compare degrees

The filth and the Facebook Technology makes Paul Stollery an angry man

O

K folks, its ranting time. I hate to use a cliché, but like my Grandma always said, if it ain't broke, don't fix it.

For those who haven't guessed, I'm talking about the new Facebook. Apparently, the Powers That Be have decided that one of the most successful websites on the internet was broken (unlikely). That, or they decided my Grandma was wrong. Either way, I'm furious. And what's more, the folks in charge at Cardiff University have apparently decided that it's time to send the Squirrel to the farm (perhaps he can say hi to my childhood guineapig Patch whilst he's there). Have you sent the Squirrel packing? Yes I have, now please send him back.

For the freshers who right now must be thinking 'OK, hate the new Facebook, but squirrels, really? Cue the men in white coats,' I'm on about a major overhaul of the Cardiff University e-mail system. The old sys-

tem was, for some bizarre reason, called Squirrel Mail. It did exactly what it needed to. Admittedly the aesthetic aspect of the system was slightly dated, but to be honest, if all you wanted to do is e-mail your lecturer saying that you were absent today because you had 'food poisoning'

I've sent the squirrel packing; now send him back (cough cough), the system was more than adequate.

Now, however, they have replaced it with MWE, the e-mail equivalent of a Ferrari without an engine: looks great, doesn't work. I could give you a list of reasons why it sucks and why the creators of said system should be dressed up as a baby and locked in a room with Gary Glitter for a few hours, but I wouldn't want to spoil the

surprise for those of you who have yet to experience the delights of MWE. I will say this: it's slow, very slow.

You can (usually) log in fine, then you click on your inbox, and… nothing.

Nothing for about 30 seconds at least.

For the sake of this article, I was in fact planning on going onto MWE and getting more familiar with the system, in the hope that I may be able to provide a few tips on how to make the most of a failing system. Bad news though folks - I clicked on MWE, only to be greeted by the message 'Internal Server Error'.

What a surprise. Now, I won't pretend to be a technical wizard, but if I had to wager what that actually means I'd guess something along the lines of 'I'm sick, come back later'. Ironic considering that's pretty much what you now can't say to your lecturer.

So now back to the 'new and improved' Facebook. The largest 'I hate Facebook group' I could find was

2,735,300 strong, or put it another way, about the size of Wales. For any of you stubborn people out there who have refused to join the social revolution, this is sort of like the Government coming out and saying: 'As of December 1st, we will all drive on the right side of the road, no if or buts about it'. OK, so I'm being melodramatic. I'm a journalist, it's what I do.

I'm going to stop now, as I've run

The largest 'I hate Facebook' group is the size of Wales out of things to say without swearing or actually encouraging people to commit crime (kill, cough). I'm off hunting meddlers and I may need an alibi; if anyone asks, I was at the Taf between 9pm and 1am. Cheers.

08 gairrhydd

OPINION

OCTOBER.13.2008 OPINION@gairrhydd.COM

A degree of usefulness

Canuck in Cardiff Media student Miranda Knox takes on the haters Corey Shefman talks initiation

T

wo years ago at Canada's McGill University, ranked 12th in the world, a scandal broke. It was called ‘Doctor Broom’, and it saw the not-so-secret underworld of university initiations, known as ‘hazing’ when they go beyond fun and turn abusive, dangerous and humiliating, become very public.

When ‘welcoming’ new members of the American football team, veterans forced the first-years to binge drink and kneel, and tapped the end of a broom against their buttocks, the insinuation being that they were preparing to penetrate them.

They never intended to put the broomstick anywhere it wasn’t meant to be, but when one student broke the unwritten code of silence and came forward, the news made national headlines. Aside from the homophobia common to much hazing, activities can including things like nudity, drug use, binge drinking, humiliation, name-calling and sexual harassment or assault. Initiations rarely include all of these activities, but if it includes even one of them, it is likely to be hazing.

I wasn't surprised to see the recent investigative report in gair rhydd, though the BBC report on the Gloucestershire initiation featuring Nazi uniforms was a bit shocking.

What really surprised me was how rampant hazing seems to be here.

One of the best things to come out of the fraternity system in North America is the term hazing and its rejection as absolutely unacceptable.

The important distinction here is between initiation and hazing.

Forcing someone to drink six beers on a coach is initiation. Forcing them to drink six beers on a coach after drinking a bottle of wine and unhealthy amounts of vodka while sleep-deprived (as described in last week’s gair rhydd) is hazing. The argument that it’s voluntary and anyone can say no is total bull. Almost all of the time, any student refusing to take part will at best be ostracized from the group and at worst made to complete the activities against their will.

What’s worse is that, according to the story, Cardiff students really don’t think hazing is a big deal. Besides being dangerous physically, initiation rituals are often humiliating and discriminatory in nature.

The time for talk is over. The NUS and Cardiff Students' Union presidents have both called rituals like this unacceptable but it’s time for action. We need dialogue on this issue between the CUSU and the AU and there needs to be a crackdown on societies, clubs and teams who practice hazing. If you want to welcome someone to your group, take them out for a beer, don’t humiliate them – it’s just common sense.

A

s a media student, perhaps I’m too stupid to understand or comment on such a complex issue. But I struggle to understand why some people think it is their right to belittle degrees that aren’t of their particular field of interest, or claim to be doing a ‘real’ subject. I fail to understand how criticising their usefulness or relevance and claiming them to be a complete and utter waste of time is constructive. Obviously only the most terrible of universities would be idiotic enough to have worthless subjects such as Journalism, Communication or Cultural Studies being taught at their institution.

Never mind that Cardiff, a respected establishment that has been around since 1883, deems such subjects worthy of recognition. I find it strange that despite going to the same highly thought-of university, some of us find ourselves to be considered inferior for their choice of degree.

Why is learning about the media regarded as a waste of time?

Not everyone is destined to study the traditionally academic subjects but who has the right to say that’s any less worthy? Subjects such as Sports Science, Psychology and Sociology may be new in comparison to others, but the world is continually changing, so surely there should be room for new degrees to be accepted as valid career choices, and not just brushed aside.

After all, English Literature was scorned when it was first introduced as a degree. Now, years later, it is regarded as a perfectly legitimate choice

of study.

I’m not denying that the workload may be less hardcore than for a course such as Medicine or Law, which are rightly highly regarded courses and take a great deal of hard work. But I don’t see how that makes any other course less valid. To me, they are impossible to compare.

The skills I learn will be useful This really shows how narrowminded some people are when introduced to a new idea or concept that they are completely ignorant about.

Not all courses are designed with one career in mind, and so plenty of other skills can be gained. Research methods can be useful to know about, and through writing a dissertation, time management skills are demonstrated, as well as the ability to argue your point in a clear and coherent manner, through essays or presentations.

OK, so it’s rather obvious I’m talking about the criticism Media Studies gets in particular, but I’ve no doubt there are plenty of others who will agree that they have come across some type of ‘course snobbery’ from certain individuals who think they have the overriding right to devalue the course choice of others, claiming to be doing a real subject and generally making snide and extremely witty comments (“Journalism? What, do you just read a newspaper? Hahahaha...”).

I really can’t comprehend why learning about the media is regarded as such a waste of time, when within our everyday life we are all (to an extent) continually manipulated and influenced by it. It is crucial to be aware of and educated about this manipulation and how the media operates.

Through studying media not only

MEDIA STUDIES: it's better than Town Planning do you gain awareness about how we are - not just insulting the course but are controlled through political propa- having quite an amusing rant, for no ganda and biased reporting - the Iraq particular reason.

There will always be people who war coverage being a recent example but also learn about the field in which feel it is their right to condemn para vast number of career paths can be ticular courses but I feel it necessary taken, in print, TV or radio, to name to question what they can possibly but a few. I know for a fact I will nev- gain in doing so. I know when I leave er become a doctor or mathematician university I will not have been trained (seriously, what does a mathematician for a specific job, yet feel the critical do, anyway?) but refuse to feel infe- knowledge and skills I will gain will rior because of it. My interests simply most definitely be useful in whatever lie with a course that gives a valuable career I choose.

The life experiences of going to insight into the area in which I wish to university in general are imperative, as pursue as a career. there are so many opportunities to be taken, regardless of what subject you choose to study. I think most people would rather study a subject that they Don’t get me wrong - I certainly are genuinely interested in rather than don’t resent people on established ‘ac- what they are told they should study ademic’ courses, and not all are pre- to be considered intellectually accepttentious enough to look down on other able, and work hard to get the best people. However, there are a few that possible degree, despite the criticism like to make vague, uninformed judge- it may create. Quite frankly, spending ments. On a recent night out, I found three years of my life doing anything myself listening to a complete random else would be a complete waste of telling me how crap media students time.

It's impossible to compare degrees

The filth and the Facebook Technology makes Paul Stollery an angry man

O

K folks, its ranting time. I hate to use a cliché, but like my Grandma always said, if it ain't broke, don't fix it.

For those who haven't guessed, I'm talking about the new Facebook. Apparently, the Powers That Be have decided that one of the most successful websites on the internet was broken (unlikely). That, or they decided my Grandma was wrong. Either way, I'm furious. And what's more, the folks in charge at Cardiff University have apparently decided that it's time to send the Squirrel to the farm (perhaps he can say hi to my childhood guineapig Patch whilst he's there). Have you sent the Squirrel packing? Yes I have, now please send him back.

For the freshers who right now must be thinking 'OK, hate the new Facebook, but squirrels, really? Cue the men in white coats,' I'm on about a major overhaul of the Cardiff University e-mail system. The old sys-

tem was, for some bizarre reason, called Squirrel Mail. It did exactly what it needed to. Admittedly the aesthetic aspect of the system was slightly dated, but to be honest, if all you wanted to do is e-mail your lecturer saying that you were absent today because you had 'food poisoning'

I've sent the squirrel packing; now send him back (cough cough), the system was more than adequate.

Now, however, they have replaced it with MWE, the e-mail equivalent of a Ferrari without an engine: looks great, doesn't work. I could give you a list of reasons why it sucks and why the creators of said system should be dressed up as a baby and locked in a room with Gary Glitter for a few hours, but I wouldn't want to spoil the

surprise for those of you who have yet to experience the delights of MWE. I will say this: it's slow, very slow.

You can (usually) log in fine, then you click on your inbox, and… nothing.

Nothing for about 30 seconds at least.

For the sake of this article, I was in fact planning on going onto MWE and getting more familiar with the system, in the hope that I may be able to provide a few tips on how to make the most of a failing system. Bad news though folks - I clicked on MWE, only to be greeted by the message 'Internal Server Error'.

What a surprise. Now, I won't pretend to be a technical wizard, but if I had to wager what that actually means I'd guess something along the lines of 'I'm sick, come back later'. Ironic considering that's pretty much what you now can't say to your lecturer.

So now back to the 'new and improved' Facebook. The largest 'I hate Facebook group' I could find was

2,735,300 strong, or put it another way, about the size of Wales. For any of you stubborn people out there who have refused to join the social revolution, this is sort of like the Government coming out and saying: 'As of December 1st, we will all drive on the right side of the road, no if or buts about it'. OK, so I'm being melodramatic. I'm a journalist, it's what I do.

I'm going to stop now, as I've run

The largest 'I hate Facebook' group is the size of Wales out of things to say without swearing or actually encouraging people to commit crime (kill, cough). I'm off hunting meddlers and I may need an alibi; if anyone asks, I was at the Taf between 9pm and 1am. Cheers.

gairrhydd

OCTOBER.13.2008

OPINION

OPINION@gairrhydd.COM

The boy

THUNDER

Smoke and mirrors G

raphic images of open heart surgery. A photograph of a grotesque tumour swelling underneath a man’s chin. A stark picture of a pair of cancerous lungs, discoloured by disease. All coming soon to a newsagent near you. This is the next step in the war on smoking.

I don’t smoke. I have better things to do with my lungs and my loan. I’d also rather not have yellow fingers, the shakes, or cancer, and the idea of addiction to a psychoactive substance doesn't appeal. I support the smoking ban, and find little viler than when some careless oik lets their smoke waft into my face. So why does the idea of putting such images on cigarette packets in an effort to deter smokers rankle with me so much?

The Government (boo, hiss) hopes British smokers will follow the lead of their Canadian, Australian, New Zealand, Brazilian and Singaporean counterparts and be convinced to quit by the images. At least, that’s their line. Y’see, tobacco taxes provide five times more revenue than is spent on treating smoking-related diseases.

They’re a vital cash source. So while they’d rather people didn’t die, Alan Johnson and co. only sort of want smokers to stop.

The actual stance remains confusing They also know an outright ban on smoking would be massively unpopular. Although it seems politicians are slowly coming round to the idea of putting people’s health before tax, they are loath to implement any policies that too strongly condemn the cause of the most deaths in the world; barring malnutrition.

That’s why we’ve had some very

text doesn’t convince smokers to stop then they just need to be shown more explicitly. It’s the equivalent of speaking English V-E-R-Y S-L-O-W-L-Y A-N-D L-O-U-D-L-Y to foreigners.

This new initiative might be effective, but that’s not really the issue – the issue is whether it’s a step the Government should take. And although it seems like a major change, their actual stance remains confusing.

Either Labour genuinely want everyone to live smoke-free lives, in which case they should get on with it and ban smoking altogether, or don’t mind and should stop these halfmeasures which just make it look as if they’d rather the issue just went away.

It's as if they can’t accept that people might know the risks associated with smoking and want to smoke anyway, so have gone from gentle encouragement to simple bullying.

Smokers already know the risks silly suggestions recently that have tried and failed to walk the line between deterring smokers and protecting their right to inhale toxic chemicals. In February smoking licences were mooted so smokers would ‘have to make a conscious decision every year to opt in to being a smoker’. This was quietly dropped once someone realised that walking into a shop and buying a pack of twenty is a conscious decision in itself. Now every time you light up you’ll have to stare at some guy’s chest cavity.

Some people might see the images, which will appear on all cigarette packs by next October, as an extension of the written warnings that have been around since 2003. They’ll be harder to ignore, and will put the mes-

ILLUSTRATION: Nathan Hughes sage across more strongly than ever that smoking kills.

But the written warnings provide basic information. They’re factual, neutral, and provide valuable information that has caused 90,000 smokers to rethink their habit. They’re also unobtrusive – if a smoker knows about the dangers and chooses to ignore the warnings, they can. Their role is to inform and encourage, not to persuade.

By now, most smokers know the risks of smoking. But this measure will see them regularly assaulted by full-colour pictures that even the BBC website warned readers about before showing. It’s unfair. There’s also an air of condescension around the move: the implication that stopping smoking is common sense, and that if

It’s understandable that Labour don’t want to ban smoking. It’d be very poorly received by smokers (er, obviously), and there would be a predictably dull outcry over the ‘nanny state’. And maybe it would be beyond their remit – I’m not arguing that either way. But right now their actions just don’t tally with their words. They say they want people to decide themselves about smoking, so they don’t enforce a full ban. But then they bombard them with this propaganda aimed at making up their minds for them.

At some point Labour have to accept that they’ve gone as far as they can without pushing through a full ban. And if that isn’t on the cards, then they have to leave the decision to the people based on the facts alone, not on these shock tactics.

It’s all over the front page W

hat are the three components of the perfect tabloid story? Scandal, subterfuge and sedition? Immigration, ignorance and invectives?

Cocaine, cameras and Kate?

No. The ideal tabloid story includes breasts, bum and a bundle of cash. Allow me to explain. Recently, 18-yearold Ianthe Fullagar won seven million pounds on the Euromillions lottery (bundle of cash), and has the decency to be rather photogenic. She hid her ticket in her bra (breasts), and she screamed so much when she won that her dog bit her on her bottom (bum).

She then appeared on the front page of all of the Sunday tabloids.

A picture and at least one anatomical aspect of the story was emphasised

09

on all the tabloids’ front pages. I'll be cynical and suggest they did this for a reason: the women can say “ooh, isn’t she a nice girl” while rubbing the grease-stains off the cooker, and the men can say “ooh, isn’t she a nice girl” while rubbing their crotches.

Of course, the buns ‘n’ bum combination are really the salient points here; I could remember neither Ianthe’s name nor the amount she had won (ostensibly the real story), so shamefully had to search for ‘my dog bit my bum’ to find the story online.

I’m really not proud.

In other news, Mandy's back. This has generated a lot of interest, but let’s focus specifically on The Mail’s reaction. I chose this paper because its reaction was so absurd, so painfully bi-

ased, and just so blatantly wrong that I actually had to stare at it for a moment. Because The Mail called Peter Mandelson ‘the Prince of Darkness’.

Don't call Mandelson a cancer I’ve no opinion on Mandelson.

I was 11 last time he was a member of the Government. But unless he's bitten the head off a bat and snorted a line of ants, he is not the Prince of Darkness. It’s a ridiculous statement to make about a public figure, and it leaves any claim of credibility from The Mail in tatters.

Incredibly, it gets worse. Elsewhere in the paper Mandelson is, unbelievably, referred to as ‘a cancer’. It’s

despicable and almost laughably offensive. If you want to refer to him as unwanted, as nasty, as in need of removal, then call him an ingrowing toenail. Not a cancer.

Of course, The Mail will, much like grandad in the corner at Christmas muttering about the darkies, get away with it. You tolerate grandad. You lovingly say ‘tch, he’s so racist’, before trying to move him off the topic of head measurements.

Well I don’t know about you, but I’ve had enough. This isn’t even racist – it’s just sickening. It’s time to stop tolerating your grandad. Talk him round, beat him up and put his dentures in the blender until he realises what he is. Because he’s a vile, bitter, twisted old goat. Sorry, grandad.

He's the virtuous among you

Is it just me...

...or is real piracy pretty great?

E

veryone knows internet piracy is a crime. But proper piracy? That’s a whole different kettle of, er, rum.

In a world most deem unsuitable for cutlass-wielding capers, the East African nation of Somalia is a haven for buccaneers. In the last year pirates have hijacked nearly 30 ships, and recently took control of a Ukrainian ship full of tanks.

I know that the pirates didn't have eyepatches

I know – I know – that this was a serious story. I know that it must have been a traumatic experience for everyone involved, and that tanks and hijackers probably don’t mix well. But screw it; it’s a story with tanks, pirates, and a ransom demand.

It makes me happy. There was even a (possibly mutinous) shoot-out on board, which I am fairly certain involved flintlock pistols.

I also know that the pirates probably didn’t have eye-patches. Or parrots. Or wooden legs. And the ransom demand was almost definitely not in pieces of eight. But it won’t stop me hoping that they will somehow one day commandeer the tanks, storm our cities in buccaneering glory, and raise the Jolly Roger over Buckingham Palace.

Somalia is a haven for buccaneers

Aside from being generally brilliant, the event also spawned one of my favourite quotes from a Somali foreign ministry spokesman: “The international community has permission to fight the pirates.” Imagine being told that you are allowed to ‘fight the pirates’. It’s what you dream of when you’re a six-year-old who’s abnormally good at Risk, but once you actually become a military leader you surely accept it’s not going to happen.

Just out of interest, can you imagine our own David Miliband saying that? I can’t. He’d make some comment about the ‘blatant agression’ of the ‘hostile forces’ and urge some sanctions. Maybe take away their grog. He wouldn’t use the word ‘fight’. Or ‘pirate’. And I think that, dear readers, is a great shame.

10 gairrhydd OCTOBER.13.2008

POLITICS

POLITICS@gairrhydd.COM

Does Politics Matt Polly Lord considers what could be done to get students more involved with politics and off their sofas at home

olitics is a word which conjures up images of stuffy politicians in tweed jackets sat in London making decisions for all of us based on personal agendas. Many students feel that politics is either dull, or that there is little point in being bothered as our views are never heard.

This apathetic response to the governors of our country is worrying; students are the workers of the future, the electorate in waiting. If students are being turned off now, then turn out at future general elections will be low, and decisions that affect us as adults in “the real world” could be made by those who have been elected without a majority. Indeed, the word itself comes from the Latin “politicus”, which in turn is defined as “of the citizens or the State”. Surely this

P

Many students feel that politics is dull

would mean that the very meaning of politics is being threatened, currently it is not engaging the citizens it seeks to protect.

Youth representation has always been a prevalent issue in politics; recently many developments have been made to guarantee young people a voice. In 1999, the Youth Parliament was set up to ensure that 11-18 year olds had a way of channelling their views on the issues that affected them.

Local district councils followed suit, and now many have a youth council that runs parallel to them, with the same age range directly discussing their views on the local area and how to improve it. This appears to be ef-

fective; my comprehensive school, not usually one for politics, began setting up mock elections and 'Politics Week' to publicise politics as a whole.

It would seem that the problem for us students is the lack of such systems.

We are excluded from these youth schemes by being over 18, yet we are

not given the same credence as those over 21 who are working. Instead, we rely on our own university's societies and influences to keep us informed

and publicise our voice.

Cardiff has a strong and active student body; our elections are usually well attended with many candi-

Student Council: why is it so impo

Eric Blair explains why your opinions are so vital in the running o

o you’ve heard that the Union is more than a night club and shop; it’s a whole building packed with exciting opportunities. But beyond this physical existence, the Union is the heart of student identity, run by a team of student councillors and executives.

Cardiff Students’ Union is run by students, to function for students. Every action it undertakes is overseen by 20 elected student executives who report directly to the 59-strong Stu-

S

dent Council or, if you will, the Union brain.

These 59 members create a link between students on the ground and the student executive that directs the union. The Student Council represents all sections of student life: from postgraduates to societies, from sports clubs to course reps. This council provides a forum for these groups to get together with more general interest groups, to debate, manage and govern union activity.

It sounds bonkers but it is in fact

true, nearly everything that happens within the big brown Students’ Union can be changed by the decisions of the Student Council. Last year, it took a lead in reducing global carbon emissions by banning domestic air travel for all staff and students on union business. It also successfully pushed the university to keep Wednesday afternoons lecture free and fun filled.

On top of this, the council also scrutinises the work of the student executive. Made up of 6 full time sabbatical officers and 14 part time non-

sabbatical officers, the executive represents students to the University and society. The council is the best way to

ensure that these officers focus their efforts on the important issues that students face, from anti-bullying policies to visa renewal charges.

When it comes down to it, everything that matters to students matters to Student Council. If you think that the Friday night DJ is so amazing his pay should be doubled, get along to Student Council. If your lecturer is consistently late and more hung-over than their students, get to Student Council. If the government is charging you too much for your degree,

gairrhydd

OCTOBER.13.2008

11

POLITICS

POLITICS@gairrhydd.COM

ter? Get

active!

dates trying a range of madcap ideas to enlist our votes. Having a wander around the Freshers’ Fayre last week, no-one could fail to notice the number of societies connected to political parties that we have here. All of this is a great step forward, but (and it's an important but, all big and glittery to draw your attention to it) our student politics revolve around how our union is run, and not general political issues.

We do not have a ‘tuition fee representative’ that calls for the changing of the fee system, nor do we have a ‘tax official’, advocating cheaper beer for all. It seems as though students are left in the cold when it comes to representation in the political arena. This cannot be said to be the students' or the University's fault, as it follows a greater trend of student apathy. I believe we should have similar representation to those aged 11-18: representatives from each university, elected by us, meet and discuss issues that affect students as young adults. We would then have a direct person in our University who we could contact to get our voice heard; it would provide a way in which politics could be made accessible.

We cannot ignore politics, but until we feel that politics is not ignoring us, it is unlikely that it will engage the student body as a whole. With 61.3% turnout at the last general election, the Government must do more to ensure that politics as a whole is something students would prefer to engage with and discuss, as opposed to chatting about the latest Hollyoaks’ episode.

Matthew Foster profiles Cardiff's political societies Activists at a Coca Cola protest earlier this year

Liberal Democrats

C

ardiff University’s Liberal Democrats society describe themselves as a “very active society”, although currently they do not have fixed meetings.

Society president Ed Mason believes the society is highly important, as in the Cathays area alone all four councillors and the MP and AM are Liberal Democrats.

During the year the society goes

to conferences, hosts political discussions and talk to the people to gauge political feeling, as well as “the odd social or three”. If you want to find out more the best way to get involved is through their Facebook group or by emailing liberaldems@hotmail.com.

Conservatives

C

ardiff has a Conservative student society who are engaged with political discussions and debates.

Hosting MPs for discussion, the party is involved with campaigning and getting the Conservative

message across to students. The society can be contacted through their Facebook groups where you can find all the information you need to know.

ortant?

of the Union

come to Student Council.

The council is the heart of student life; it’s a forum in which student problems, desires and concerns are brought together and debated. But unlike most other councils, the results of our Student Council can be seen every time you ascend your big brown union steps.

The first council will be held in Solus on October 14th at 6.30pm.

Make sure you come along to air your views.

Labour Students

T

he Labour Society at Cardiff University meet weekly on Mondays at 19:45 in the Nelson Mandela Room of the Students' Union.

On top of club socials, the annual calendar is filled with debates and outside speakers hosted by the society. Trips are also organised to Westminster and various Labour

Student events, as well as the Labour Party Conference. The society outline their aims as securing support for the Labour Party amongst the student body and propagating democratic socialist views and the cause of the Labour Party. More information and contact details are available through their Facebook group.

Young Greens

T

he Young Greens are the newest political society to hit Cardiff University, with Jonathan Evans and Sam Coates leading the way. They meet every other Monday in the Rona Griffiths Room on the fourth floor of the Students' Union.

Throughout the year the society hosts discussions with outside speakers relating to environmental issues and discuss all things Green

Party at their society gatherings and socials. Their next meeting is October 20th. In the words of their president Jonathan Evans, Cardiff University’s Young Greens aim to offer “a youthful alternative to the grey and boring politics of the three main parties”. If you’re interested in the Green Party, make sure you get involved. Contact can, of course, be made through their Facebook group.

Geopursuit Cardiff 342x264 Ad GEO3

8/10/08

19:17

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gairrhydd

OCTOBER.13.2008

13

LETTERS

LETTERS@gairrhydd.COM

letters@gairrhydd.com An Absolute Disgrace Dear gair rhydd, Yesterday (Sunday 5th October) I went to see The Ting Tings in the Great Hall. However, it's got to be said that whilst the gig was great, the options for drinks were disgusting.

Upon entering the Hall I was told that not only have all the draught lines been removed from the venue but that the only option for a beer is to pay £3 for a 250ml bottle.

Quite frankly, this is taking the piss. Why the hell is it that, all of a sudden, we're expected to pay the

the

prices demanded elsewhere in the centre of Cardiff? Did something suddenly happen over the summer whereby the Union was bought out by the people who run the CIA? Or is there something going on similar to what happened in an episode of 'Peter Kay's Phoenix Nights' where an 'intelligent' member of the Union Exec decided it was best to ditch the brewery? Why not go the whole hog and just whore the whole Union out to Carling and turn it into another one of their god-awful venues.

What really grates is that issues such as this never form a serious part of people's election campaigns (instead they just decide it's funny to dress like a soldier from '300' or dance like a twat to a Wombats song).

They promise to 'sort out the Union'

on a yearly basis but on this evidence they're completely out of touch with what the expectations are for live events at a students' union.

Seriously, from someone who's now in the third year of their PhD after being an undergrad here and has attended numerous gigs at this venue, sort it out.

Ross Garner Third year PhD student

The problem with advance tickets Dear gair rhydd, I’ve been to Solus practically

every Saturday for two years and love it.

However, last night (4/10), was a complete disaster. We’d bought internet tickets for Come Play, but none of the staff seemed to have any idea what the arrangements were regarding them.

We ended up queuing in the rain twice in two different queues and kept being directed to different places by the security staff. It was all a complete shambles! The idea of internet tickets is great, but better organisation is definitely needed.

Lois A. Davies

A lack of communication

Comments from the week’s news, opinion, features and sport at www.gairrhydd.com Calm the Obama Drama Mark ------Race is an issue in the States to a far larger degree than it is here, I think that’s reasonable to say.

That said, the top American political commentators and analysts can’t accurately predict or even broadly agree just what overall impact his race has on his support or even what effect having a black president will have on certain demographics within certain US States. So if they don’t know I’m not sure what kind of informed opinion any of us Cardiff students can offer.

We’ll have to be content the

next time we meet an American by putting on our finest stiff upper lip and saying in the most patronisingly condensing ever-so-British tone that race would never be an issue in a British election. Conveniently forgetting, of course, that we have never had an election where race is an issue because no main UK party has dared placed an ethnic minority figure in a prominent role.

In the Tories, it was considered exotic to have a senior member who wasn’t educated at Eton and Oxbridge. Not that Labour is any better.

I cannot think of one directly elected politician who has ever served in the Privy Council. It should be noted that, under the incumbent Republican

Administration, the second most powerful position of Secretary of State, has been filled by a black man and then a black woman.

With regards to race and politics if the Americans have got a long way to go then we’ve got even further.

CB ----Why are you so concerned about who our president will be? Sadly, most Americans here have no clue who Brown is. That’s because we really don’t worry about the rest of the world.

I’m not talking bad about you guys, I lived in Europe for three years while in the Army. But it never

Why is Cardiff University so rubbish at communication?

There are so many things going on, but it so often depends on seeing a poster by chance (and then having to double check that the poster is not hopelessly out of date), or by having a chance conversation with someone who already knows what's going on.

When I was a first year I was sent all sorts of information about what was happening during Freshers' Week. This year I had to scour the internet to find out when the Societies' Fayre was.

Sort it out Cardiff University!

Ruth Jones Second year Chemistry student

forum

ceases to amaze me why Europe is so into our business.

The fact that Obama campaigned in Europe for support still amazes me. Still, sad that most Americans are spoon fed by the media and don’t see a problem there.

God bless us all if he gets elected.

Jamie -----

The hard rain's a-gonna

America might send their troops further afield and be more heavily scrutinised, but they’re by no means the worst offenders. Try asking Tibet, Taiwan, South Ossetia/Abkhazia how Russia and China’s ‘minding their own business’ works.

fall

Mark -----

Koko -----

Indeed, if I were an ethnic Ukrainian living in the Crimean Oblast of Ukraine right now I’d be very, very worried. Forget Georgia, the Crimea is set for the next stage of Russian expansionism.

Hey, at least Russia and China mind their own business. Now compare that to the imperialist America.

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14 gairrhydd

OCTOBER.13.2008

FEATURES

FEATURES@gairrhydd.COM

Get In the Pink for

With Breast Cancer Awareness Month going on throughout Octobe The facts: how much do you know?

After gender, the biggest risk factor is age- 80% of diagnosed breast cancer cases occur in women over 50. ...

More than 1500 women aged 35-39 are diagnosed every year. ...

Less than 10% of cases are due to family history. ...

One person every twelve minutes is diagnosed with breast cancer. ...

Despite the numbers getting higher for people being diagnosed, survival rates are improving. ...

For women under 35, it is the most commonly diagnosed cancer. ...

Breast cancer also affects men, but it is rare - around 300 cases a year. ...

In the UK, around 12,400 people die from the disease every year.

S

ince its first edition, which was launched in 1993 by Evelyn Lauder, October has been Breast Cancer Awareness Month. According to Cancer Research, breast cancer is the most common cancer in the UK. Every day, around 125 women and one man are diagnosed with the illness.

Unfortunately, the rates have been climbing over the past few years, stressing the importance of awareness of the cancer. It is thanks to initiatives like Breast Cancer Awareness Month that more research can be done on it, resulting in the NHS breast screening programme saving 1,400 lives each year in the UK.

Causes Like most cancers, breast cancer occurs when abnormal cells appear and grow out of control, invading surrounding tissues and thus forming a malignant tumour. Its causes, however, are less known. Doctors are still puzzled as to what exactly causes it, but there are certain factors that can

Treatment can include surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy increase the risk of developing the cancer. Ageing is one of the most predominant factors, as 8 in 10 breast cancers are diagnosed in women aged 50 and over. This has to do with the use of female hormones, oestrogen in particular, after menopause, as it is believed that the longer you have high oestrogen levels, the higher your risk of getting breast cancer. Breast cancer can also have genetic origins. Firstly, the risk of breast cancer increases if your mother or sister have suffered from it. Secondly, having the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes can also increase the risk. In fact, women with these genes have a 50% to 80% chance of getting breast cancer in their lifetime.

These are genes you can either inherit, or they can be created as mutations during our lifetime because of substances we come into contact with that cause cancer, or because of mistakes cells make when copying their genetic code before dividing into two new cells.

Symptoms As all cancers are easier to treat in their early stages, it is important to keep an eye out for its symptoms, which can include the following: change in texture - watch out for lumps or thickenings in the breast or underarm, even if they are painless; change in appearance - the skin on the breast may dimple, similar to cellulite;

a change in shape or size; a turn-in of the nipple or a clear or bloody fluid that comes out of the nipple. It is important to check your breasts for these symptoms on a regular basis, or better yet, let your partner check them!

Diagnosis If one or more of the symptoms occurs, or if there is a high risk, you may be advised to have an X-ray of the breast, or mammogram. Mammograms can detect lumps which are too small to be felt. If a lump has been detected, a biopsy follows. The biopsy will determine whether the tumour is malignant and if so, how far the cancer has progressed, which will then determine the treatment.

Treatment In most cases, surgery is necessary to remove the malignant tumour, followed by radiation therapy to destroy any remaining cancer cells. You may also get chemotherapy or hormone therapy. If the cancer is widely spread, radiation, chemotherapy or hormone therapy can also be used to shrink the cancer before surgery to minimise incisions. Treatment depends on the severity (stage) of the cancer. Two widely known surgical procedures are lumpectomy (only the malignant cells are removed, keeping the breast intact, usually followed by radiation therapy) and mastectomy (removal of the entire breast, which may or may not be followed by radiation). Thanks to intensive research and improvement of the procedures the latter treatment is used less and less.

The NHS breast screening programme saves 1,400 lives each year Prevention Some factors that put men and women at risk for breast cancer cannot be controlled, but there are some things you can do to try and stay healthy, such as eating a varied diet, consisting of many fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Another thing you can do is be active. It is recommended that you try to get 30 minutes of exercise at least 5 days a week. It has also been proven that excessive amounts of alcohol, especially after the menopause, can increase the risk, so limit your alcohol intake. All these elements will also help you keep your weight healthy, which contributes to minimising the risk. If there is a strong history of breast cancer in your family, inquire about genetic testing

with your GP. A blood test can check for changes in the BRCA genes that may increase your chance of getting breast cancer. These tests, however, are in their early stages. The genetic fault cannot simply be found. A living relative with breast cancer will have to be tested first, and then the researchers look for that same gene fault in you.

Keep in mind, though, that only five to ten per cent of new cases of the disease are due to inherited genetic factors. Jackie Harris, Clinical Nurse Specialist at Breast Cancer Care, said: “When someone in your family is di-

agnosed with breast cancer, it can be extremely worrying. Family history is one of the top reasons for calls to our helpline and we often hear from people who are very anxious about

Five to ten per cent of new cases are due to genetic factors

their risk of developing breast cancer because a relative has been diagnosed.

It is important to remember that the

gairrhydd

OCTOBER.13.2008

15

FEATURES

FEATURES@gairrhydd.COM

breast cancer

er, Natalia Popova finds out how you can be breast aware are living with breast cancer, and live and silent auctions were run to raise money for Breast Cancer Care. Prizes were donated by big names such as As-

The Pink Ribbon has become a symbol for Breast Cancer Awareness ton Martin Lagonda Limited, Chanel, Virgin, Prada and Harvey Nichols.

The official In the Pink Day is on Friday 24th October, and you can get involved by holding a pink-themed day - have a pink quiz, pink sports day or have a girls’ night in! In the Pink is being sponsored by Sony’s Girls Night In DVD and CD range- pick up titles such as Made of Honour, 50 First Dates and Maid in Manhattan, with all proceeds going to the charity.

Throughout October, Selfridges is turning pink in aid of Breast Cancer Care. Pinkridges products have been available since September and will be in stores until 15th October, with plenty of items from scarves to greetings cards. The store has also run an online auction of celeb gear to raise money, selling off Liam Gallagher’s guitar and Kate Moss’s high heels, amongst other items.

Spend some money!

Do a good deed shopping in one of the retailers mentioned on www.breastcancercare.org.uk and it will make you feel good too!

Most of them donate a percentage of your total purchase or a fixed sum per purchase of a certain item to Breast Cancer Care.

Big high street retailers like Boots are also participating with the following items: No7 lash 360 mascara (£11; 10% donated) Mini kabuki brush (£5; 10% donated) Cosmetics purse (£5; 15% donated) Compact mirror (£5; 15% donated) Key charm (£4; 15% donated) Phone charm (£2; all profits donated)

Excessive amounts of alcohol can increase the risk

majority of cases of breast cancer diagnosed each year are not due to hereditary causes.”

Research and care On a slightly brighter side, organisations like Cancer Research UK and Breast Cancer Care are doing a lot of things to prevent the illness by funding screenings, increasing public awareness, or providing care for those diagnosed with it. However, all research costs money. This is why Breast Cancer Awareness month is supported by

quite a few companies.

The Pink Ribbon has become a symbol for Breast Cancer Awareness in the last couple of years. It all started out with Charlotte Hayley, a breast cancer survivor from the US, who handed out peach coloured ribbons raising awareness that a mere 5% of the healthcare budget was going to cancer research. She was then noticed

by Evelyn Lauder (the then senior corporate vice president at Estee Lauder) and together they teamed up to create the pink ribbon.

Breast Cancer Care is very rea-

sonable with what you get for your money. With just £5, one person can access the online chat forum and share experiences with other people affected by breast cancer at any time of the day or night.

There are numerous national events happening around the UK, and there will be people running for the charity in Cardiff's half marathon on 19th October.

On Wednesday 1st October, the charity ran a fashion show at the Grosvenor House Hotel, London. All of the 23 catwalk models either had or

The most noticeable action for increasing awareness comes from www. pinkforoctober.org. Basically, you sign up to them, turn your website pink in some way for the month of October, and they mention you on their website. Join them for free publicity and increased awareness of breast cancer!

If you feel inspired to help other people, and have some free time on your hands, why not organise a fundraising event yourself this October?

Do something drastic all by yourself, and get your friends and family to sponsor you through justgiving.com, or organise a massive pink event (visit wearitpink.co.uk for more inspiration) and raise some money!

Your local ASDA may also be offering items like: ASDA Coleen T-shirt The hugely popular George Tickled Pink T-shirts as worn by Coleen McLoughlin, priced from £6 ASDA n-Spa n-Spa fruit raspberry milkshake shower and bath gel, priced £2.95 ASDA stiletto Tickled Pink peep toe stiletto, £12 ASDA bag Tickled Pink glow bag, £5 ASDA gloves Pink leather gloves, £8

For more information, visit: www.breastcancercare.org.uk www.pinkforoctober.org www.pinkribbon.com www.wearitpink.co.uk

16 gairrhydd

OCTOBER.13.2008

FEATURES

FEATURES@gairrhydd.COM

SOFTLY SOFTLY...

At a time when school pupils all over the country are applying for university, Ceri Isfryn takes a look at the 'soft subject' revolt from universities hindering their success...

T

hink back to your days of A level revision... sweltering hot days in June when all you wanted to do was cool down your sweat with a dip in the sea, but all you could do was work up a sweat over a revision book. Remember how disheartening it was when you realised that no matter how many different colours you used on your mind map, it still didn’t sink in.

Imagine then being told that your subject is in fact a Mickey Mouse subject which won’t get you into any decent university...

School pupils all over the country will currently be applying for universities, but ill-informed choices may have already hindered their chances of success. Cambridge University has released a list of twenty subjects they consider to be ‘soft’.

To be a 'realistic candidate' at the university, regardless of the course, students shouldn’t have taken more than two of these named subjects.

Cardiff is not joining the race for pretentious prestige It seems that it isn’t only Cambridge University that is partaking in this educational snobbery. Wendy Piatt, director-general of the Russell Group of the UK’S 20 leading universities, said most top institutions would follow suit in “providing a steer on preferred combinations of A-levels”.

Cardiff University is a member of the Russell Group, so how does this statement ring true for potential applicants here? Entry requirements for Cardiff University vary from course to course, affirming that we, at least, aren’t joining the race for pretentious prestige.

With over a quarter of last year’s A level candidates receiving A

words, if your A level is relevant to your desired job, then it will always be advantageous regardless of its difficultly rating.

Cardiff University seems to be bucking the trend of releasing blacklists of subjects, which is something for us to appreciate.

Educational snobbery for the sake of prestige and league tables can only result in over-read students who couldn’t do something practical like change a light bulb to save their lives.

The Russell Group: University of Birmingham University of Bristol University of Cambridge ALL SMILES: But will their subject grades, it is understandable that the UK’s top 20 universities should need a means of differentiating.

But for candidates now applying for university who have been ill-advised at school prior to the release of this subject blacklist, they face a disheartening prospect.

An UCAS spokesman said: "The key thing about admissions is for universities to be transparent and we certainly encourage them to do that." Won’t this lead to all universities blacklisting more practical and vocational subjects for fear of being seen as poor universities if they don’t?

There also appears to be a distinct gulf between A level choicesfor state and private school pupils, putting state school pupils at a greater disadvantage. Of the 2006

choices let them down?

Media Studies A level entrants, 96% were from state schools. Languages have also been nose-diving in state schools.

There is a distinct gulf between state and private schools This clearly isn’t through lack of talent, so are state school pupils being misguided by lack of clear guidelines? Oxford University rather patronizingly and transparently advise pupils to “take the A levels you enjoy”. Despite the sense of snobbery from releasing a list such as Cambridge’s, pupils at least have clear guidelines on what they need

to do.

Ultimately, what everyone gains from a good education is a job, so how much do recruiters actually take note of A levels? A representative of Cardiff’s Capstone Recruitment Agency claimed that if an individual has a degree, A levels are largely overlooked.

“From a recruiter’s point of view, there is no such thing as soft subjects at secondary or further education level. For example, even if an individual sat 10 A levels and gained top grades, if these didn’t relate to their desired job, then they become irrelevant,” she said.

Interestingly, she also noted a rise in recruiters looking for graphic designers, a skill which would come under the blacklisted A level, Design and Technology. In other

The 'soft subjects' blacklist...

Accounting Art and Design Business Studies

Information Technol- Photography Drama/Theatre Stud- ogy Physical Education ies Leisure Studies Sports Studies Media Studies Social Music Technology

Design and Technol- Home Economics

University of Edinburgh University of Glasgow Imperial College London King's College London, University of London University College London, University of London University of Leeds University of Liverpool London School of Economics and Political Science, University of London University of Manchester

ogy

Communication Stud- Film Studies ies Health and Care Dance

Cardiff University

Travel and Tourism

Newcastle University University of Nottingham Queen's University Belfast University of Oxford University of Sheffield

Performance Studies

University of Southampton

Performing Arts

University of Warwick

gairrhydd

OCTOBER.13.2008

17

TAF-OD

FMF@gairrhydd.COM

Popeth yn Gymraeg?

Sara Orwig a Elin Gwyn Taf-od Editors

O

s ydych chi'n darllen yr erthygl hon rydych chi'n amlwg yn Gymro neu'n Gymraes ac yn un o nifer o fyfyrwyr Cymraeg sy'n gadael cartref hollol neu rhannol Gymraeg ei hiaith. Roeddech efallai wedi syfrdannu i sylwi eich bod erbyn hyn yn byw mewn dinas fodern lle mae'r Gymraeg yn un o nifer o ieithoedd lleiafrifol. Yn ôl cyngor Caerdydd yn 2001 roedd 10.9% o boblogaeth y Sir yn siarad Cymraeg yn rhugl. Rydym ni'n ceisio cymdeithasu fel Cymry, a byw bywyd Cymraeg, oleia'n rhannol, ac yn dueddol o deimlo cyfrifoldeb tuag at y hybu'r Cymraeg.

Mae nifer o ffyrdd y gellir hybu'r a chefnogi'r Gymraeg yng Nghaerdydd.

Mae nifer o dafarndai Cymreig, fel y Mochyn Du, Queen's Vault ac Owain Glynd r. Yn ystod gemau'r chwech gwlad mae'r tafarndai yma, a nifer o rai eraill, yn orlawn o Gymry yn gweiddi eu cefnogaeth a chreu awyrgylch tanllyd dros y ddinas. Mae’n siwr eich bod wedi darganfod Clwb Ifor Bach erbyn hyn a profi lle mor dda ydyw i gwrdd â Cymry a chymdeithasu'n Gymraeg. Caiff ei alw’n ‘Welsh Club' am reswm! Cynhelir hefyd nosweithiau o gerddoriaeth Cymraeg ar draws y ddinas megis llynedd bu Cymdeithas yr Iaith yn cynnal gigs misol yn Buffalos. Mae’r yl gerddorol ‘S n

fest’ hefyd yn gyfle i glywed bandiau cymraeg ac addysgu myfyrwyr y ddinas am y Sin Roc Gymraeg. Bydd dros cant o fandiau rhyngwladol yn perfformio mewn nifer o glybiau ar draws Caerdydd rhwng y 13-16 o Dachwedd.

Ymuno gyda'r GymGym neu Aelwyd y Waun Ddyfal, mae’n siwr, yw’r ffordd orau o gwrdd â Chymry'r brifysgol. Mae crôls y GymGym yn

Wthnos y Glas Dafydd Loughran Taf-od Editor

Y

n ol yr arfer, ar ol treulio wthnos gynta’r tymor ar flaenau’n traed o fore (wel falle ddim) tan hir wedi’r nos, wedd hi’n hen bryd am fersiwn y Gym Gym o wthnos y glas. Tra bod gweddill myfyrwyr y ddinas yn cymryd hoe fach i drio cofio digwyddiadau’r wthnos gynt, partio oedd dal ar feddwl y Cymry. Y Crôl Teulu ddaeth gynta, noson llawn gwynebau newydd, a chwilio facebook yn y bore i gofio enwau!

Yn gynta rhaid oedd i bawb o’r flwyddyn gynta gwrdd a’u mamau a’u tadau newydd, a chael holl hanes y linell deuluol. Yna dechreuwyd ar grol o amgylch nifer o dafarndai mwyaf adnabyddus y ddinas cyn llwyddo (a llwyddo yw’r gair cywir mewn nifer o sefyllfaoedd!) cyrraedd Clwb Ifor Bach i ddawnsio hyd yr oriau man. I nifer y Crol Teulu yw un o nosweithi trymaf y flwyddyn, gyda’r genhedlaeth h n yn ceisio gwneud yn siwr eu bod yn gorffen y nos mewn gwell sdâd na eu plant newydd. Er hyn nid yw o bell ffordd yn cyrraedd lefelau eithafol nifer o seremoniau der-

byniad clybiau’r brifysgol.

Gwelwyd tipyn o sylw o’r seremoniau yma ar y newyddion yn ddiweddar, ac heb os mae’r crôl yn buddio o beidio bod mor eithafol. Mewn tîm rygbi neu hoci mae aelodau’r tim yn dod i nabod eu gilydd yn naturiol dros y flwyddyn, ac felly mae eu noson o dderbyniad yn gyfle i’r aelodau h n wneud i eraill be fuon nhw drwyddo.

Yn gyferbyniol, mewn cymdeithas fel y Gym Gym mae’n rhaid gweld y noson fel cyfle i ddod i nabod cymry eraill. I rhai, enwedig rhai sy’ ddim yn byw gyda Chymru Cymraeg, mae’r cyfleuoedd hynny yn gallu edrych yn brin.

Parhaodd yr wythnos gyda chrôl newydd ar gyfer eleni, sef Crôl Cyffion, lle cafwyd pawb eu clymu mewn grwpiau o ddau ac i fyny. Syniad gwreiddiol iawn oedd nid yn unig yn dod a phawb yn agosach (yn llythrennol!) ond yn rhoi cipolwg fach mewn i fywydau rhai o’r aelodau mwy cinci!

Ymgeisiodd rhai i fynd i’r ty bach gydai’i gilydd hyd yn oed, lle bu rhaid gwneud rhywfaint o ‘waith tîm’ yn ôl y son!! Wedi cyrraedd Walkabout roedd hawl rhyddhau’r garddyrnau a mynd fel a fyn, ond tybed faint benderfynnodd nad oedden eisiau mynd i unman.....tybed faint oedd dal sownd yn y bore??

ffordd dda o wneud ffrindiau, ac mae nifer o dripiau wedi eu trefnu hefyd.

Gyda dros gant yn troi i fyny i ymarfer cynta Côr y Waun Ddyfal mae'n ennill enw cryf iawn i'w hun fel côr ieuenctid Cymraeg y ddinas ac fe gynhiga nifer o weithgareddau megis dawnsio gwerin sydd efallai ychydig yn fwy traddodiadol Gymreig eu natur na'r crôls!

Beth am y ffordd yr ydym ni'n cael

effaith ar y ffordd y mae’r di-Gymraeg yn gweld Cymru? Daw nifer o fyfyrwyr i Gaerdydd o ardaloedd eraill o Brydain ac o wledydd tramor sydd ag ychydig neu ddim gwybodaeth am Gymru a’r Gymraeg ac ddim yn disgwyl clywed yr iaith cymaint (sy’n arbennig o wir os ydyn nhw’n byw yn Senghennydd). Sawl gwaith mae pob un ohonnom wedi gorfod addysgu rhywun am Gymru a dysgu ychy-

dig o’r iaith iddynt? Sawl un ohonnom sydd wedi cyflwyno ein ffrindiau di-Gymraeg i fand Cymraeg? A oes arnom gyfrifoldeb i anog pobl i werthfawrogi'r Gymraeg, i ddysgu'r Gymraeg? Yn fy marn i, rydym ni wedi gwneud penderfyniad i ddod i'r brif ddinas er mwyn cael bywyd modern Cymraeg - lle mae'r Gymraeg yn ddewis personol yn hytrach na'n ran ynatod o'n bywyd. I mi, dyma beth yw Cymru Fodern – lle dewis yw’r Gymraeg, lle mae hi’n byw ochr yn ochr a diwylliannau eraill. Rydym ni’n anog y Gymraeg trwy ddangos ei fod yn fyw, yn hytrach na thrio ei gwthio ar bobl.

Ond, wrth i’r twf yn y Gymraeg ledaenu ar draws Caerdydd, daw agweddau cyferbyniol i’r lan. Wrth i’r adfywiad cymreig ail-hawlio’r Brif ddinas mae rhai o’r bobl leol yn teimlo eu bod yn cael eu hystyried yn Gymry is-raddol i rai sy’n medru’r iaith, er i’w teuluoedd fyw yma ers canrifoedd. A yw hyn yn iach i'r iaith?

Neu a'i eu gwthio i ffwrdd wnaiff hyn?

Credai eraill bod yr adfywiad yn creu gobaith am ddyfodol yr iaith. Roedd 76.8% yn fwy o bobl yn siarad Cymraeg yn 2001 yng Nghaerdydd nac yn 1991. Ystadedau addawol iawn er mwyn cadw’r iaith Gymraeg yn fyw.

Gobeithio byddwn fel myfyrwyr yn gallu cyfrannu rhywbeth i’r gymdeithas Gymraeg yng Nghaerdydd dros ein blynyddoedd yma’n astudio.

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gairrhydd

OCTOBER.13.2008 TELEVISION@gairrhydd.COM .

HOT

!TELLY!

19

TELLY

NOT

Television is where it's at.

W

oooo! While the XFactor continues into its run of live shows, there's one TV delight which has been doing this 'live - therefore-things-can-go-wrong' stint since its very beginning. Yes, Strictly Come Dancing will always remain on top as Saturday night's live entertainment and I am elated at the thought of this week's lycra-tastic helping!

However, with rhythm-deficient Gary Rhodes out of the picture, I am starting to feel somewhat deflated. I had begun to disregard the likes of Rachel Stevens and Tom Chambers showcasing their suspiciously professional dancing skills each week, instead looking forward to the culinary master in action. His regular mind blocks during routines and gormless expressions in the midst of a relatively easy side-step were enough to give me an eternal belly laugh! Still, John Sargeant remains as strong as ever, to issue me with my nightly dose of comedic ecstasy...especially since he bares an uncanny resemblance to of Jo Brand (long lost siblings anyone?)

Yet, I must keep in mind the aim of Strictly i.e. to find real potential amongst the celebrity populace, and I'm almost certain they already have a few sure-fire contenders in the making. Stevens and Chambers are two such names, proving themselves in more ways than one by demonstrating

SOAPS

SPORT

ITV1 have avoided a repeat of the fiasco which surrounded England’s games in Croatia and Andorra by securing rights to the highlights of the Belarus tie on Wednesday, and after this match we will have a good idea of where England stand en route to qualifying for the 2010 World Cup. Ideally England will make it 12 points from 12, but judging by Fabio Capello’s erratic squad choices (leaving out Michael Owen for Emile ‘It’s fine, the goals will come from midfield’ Heskey) things will be far from easy.

We can expect a struggle against Kazakhstan for the best part of an hour before Capello realises Gerrard and Lampard are as compatible as pizza and mash, followed by a performance so anaemic against Be-

their diverse ability, whilst model and (more famously) George Clooney's former squeeze, Lisa Snowdon is chacha-cha-ing her way slowly but surely to the top. But still it's for all the wrong reasons that the Hertfordshire lass is grabbing headlines, due to the simple fact that she has been partnered with

the show's greasy lothario, Brendan Cole, who infamously romanced thenengaged news reader Natasha Kaplinsky during the first series.

But the true star of the show lies not amongst the programme's competitors, but in the form of a person who is known and loved by all. Indeed Strictly's shining spectacle is Bruce Forsythe – the legendary OAP who is still making us chuckle at the ripe old age of 80. His back-catalogue of fronted shows is impressive and whilst The Generation Game was the work of genius, I feel SCD is where Brucie truly shines. His tap-dancing skills are admirable and his humour targets reams of generations; he is the nation's granddaddy and I love him! Plus, he's got a pretty hot wife to boot - life's been good to this dearly loved citizen.

Ahh, so here comes my opportunity to plug the show, but how to phrase it?

Well in summary, only one word is required...fandabadoozical!

larus that the unthinkable happens and Alexander Hleb has a shot on goal. I’m under no illusions after the win against a belowpar Croatia side - it's no better than the 5-1 win in Germany and, until he proves otherwise, Capello is no better than Sven-Goran Eriksson. If you offered me two 1-0 wins right now then I’d take them.

This week in Soapland its all sweat, blood and tears quite literally! Corrie is particularly exciting as Monday marks the start of 'Murder week'! Has Tony done the deed and got rid of Liam on a more permanent basis? And more importantly, how will he commit the crime? Maria falls preggers, but will she be bringing up the kid as a single parent? So many questions, but so few answers, which denotes an essential strict following of the goings-on in Weatherfield over the next five days!

On the Beeb, in Easties, Tanya and Jack return from France having schemed their way through the holiday, but will they let Abi and Lauren in on their plan? Ian's sus-

picions grow about Jane, as do Zainab's doubts regarding Tamwar...do they not believe in that little thing called trust?

Emmerdale doesn't get much mention, but for this week I will reserve a few lines for The Dales' main storyline...Andy decides to discharge himself from hospital: riveting stuff...watch Corrie!

FILM

TWELVE MONKEYS, BBC1, WEDNESDAY One of Terry Gilliam's more accessible films with this tale of a convict, Bruce Willis, sent back in time to discover the origin of a virus that will wipe out 99% of the population. Willis is sent back six years earlier than planned and plot ensues.

BABE, ITV1, SATURDAY Who out there doesn't love this tale of the pig who just wanted to be a sheepdog? There's hours of fun to be had just patronising house mates with a simple, "That'll do pig, that'll do."

Don't forget kids; you too can be anything you want to be; how beautiful.

FUDGE TUNNEL

INDEPENDENCE DAY, CH4, SUNDAY Will Smith saving the planet with Jeff Goldblum? I'm in! Independence Day may not be perfect, or make sense all the time, but there is nothing better on a Sunday than a big popcorn blockbuster filled with one-liners, explosions and aliens. Sadly this all comes packaged with the most cringe-worthy Presidential speech on film.

20 gairrhydd

OCTOBER.13.2008

TELEVISION

TELEVISION@gairrhydd.COM

MONDAY Crimewatch BBC1 9.00pm

Music File BBC2 4.00am

BBC 1

Chef v Britain ITV1 2.45am

BBC 2

13th October Kele Okereke’s Birthday

The Great Italian Escape C4 12.35pm

ITV 1

Channel 4

Lights, Camera, Animals five 6.30pm Five

6:00am Breakfast 9:15am Real Rescues 10:00am Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is 11:00am Open House 11:30am Cash in the Attic 12:15pm Bargain Hunt

6:00am CBeebies 12:00pm The Daily Politics 12:30 Working Lunch

6:00am GMTV Newshour 6:58am GMTV Today 8:35am LK Today 9:25am The Jeremy Kyle Show 10:30am This Morning 11:15am ITV News and Weather 11:20am ITV Wales News and Weather 11:25am This Morning 12:30pm Loose Women

6:10am Kids TV 7:00am Freshly Squeezed 7:30am US Sitcoms 9:35am Princes in the Tower 11:25am Don't Make Me Angry 12:00pm News at Noon 12:30pm 3 Minute Wonder: Miss Landmine 12:35pm The Great Italian Escape

6:00am Kids TV 9:00am The Wright Stuff 10:30am Trisha Goddard 11:30am Grey's Anatomy 12:30pm Five News 12:45pm Going For Gold

1:00pm BBC News 1:30pm BBC Wales Today 1:45pm Doctors 2:15pm Diagnosis Murder 3:00pm BBC News 3:05pm CBBC

1:00pm Out of the Blue 1:25pm Coast 1:30pm Grand Prix Snooker

1:30pm ITV Lunchtime News and Weather 2:00pm 60 Minute Makeover 3:00pm The Alan Titchmarsh Show 4:00pm Midsomer Murders

1.05pm Chateau Monty 1:40pm Guadalcanal Diary 3:25pm Countdown 4:15pm Deal or No Deal

1:45pm Neighbours 2:15pm Home and Away 2:50pm Going For Gold Extra 3:05pm Loving Evangeline

5:15pm The Weakest Link

5:15pm Escape to the Country

5:00pm Britain’s Best Dish

5:00pm The Paul O’Grady Show

5:00pm Five News 5:30pm Neighbours

6:00pm BBC News and BBC Wales Today 7:00pm The One Show 7:30pm Watchdog 7:57pm BBC News and Regional News 8:00pm EastEnders 8:30pm Panorama 9:00pm Crimewatch

6:00pm Eggheads 6:30pm Strictly Come Dancing - It Takes Two 7:00pm Grand Prix Snooker 8:00pm University Challenge 8:30pm What To Eat Now

6:00pm Wales Tonight 6:30pm ITV Evening News and Weather 7:00pm Emmerdale 7:30pm Coronation Street 8:00pm EU Decide: Tonight 8:30pm Coronation Street

6:00pm The Simpsons 6:30pm Hollyoaks 7:00pm Channel 4 News 8:00pm Dispatches: The Trouble With British Airways

6:00pm Home and Away 6:30pm Lights, Camera, Animals 7:00pm Five News 7:30pm Top Trumps: All Terrain Vehicles 8:00pm The Gadget Show

9:00pm Amazon with Bruce Parry

9:00pm Wired

9:00pm Shooting of Thomas Hurndall

9:00pm Unbreakable

10:00pm BBC News, BBC Wales Today and BBC Weather 10:35pm The Dark Side of Fame With Piers Morgan 11:30pm Inside Sport 12:00am Thunderheart 2:00am Sign Zone 3:00am Sign Zone:

10:00pm Harry and Paul 10:30pm Newsnight

10:00pm News at Ten and Weather 10:35pm Real Crime: The Cat and Mouse Killer

11:20pm Painted Babies: Growing Up 12:20am Grand Prix Snooker Highlights 1:10am Grand Prix Snooker Extra 3:10am Joins BBC News 4:00am Music File

11:35pm Police, Camera, Action 12:30am Champions League Weekly 1:00am Nightwatch With Steve Scott 1:55am Loose Women 2:45am Chef v Britain

10:00pm Paul Merton in India

11:00pm The Girl With Eight Limbs 12:00am Party Poker Nations Cup 2008 1:00am Sport 4:00am Alice Through The Looking Glass

PICK OF THE DAY

Shooting of Thomas Hurndall, C4, 9.00pm Gair Rhydd TV editor in serious comment shocker: It’s not often that I have a serious show which I care enough about to make a comment on – I was close to changing my pick of the day to the cop-out option of ‘The Girl with Eight Limbs’ or something equally ripe for parody – but this is different. 'Shooting of Thomas Hurndall' focuses on a news story which you may have missed a few years ago: Hurndall was a British photography student shot by an Israeli sniper while attempting to rescue a group of Palestinian children. Given the nature of the material there is plenty of potential for preaching, and I hope that writer Simon Block doesn't just use the subject matter to propagate a personal agenda with regards to the Israel-Palestine conflict. Still, given Channel 4's recent record in treating issues like this with a great sense of impartiality (the recent documentary on the Qur'an being a prime example) we can expect Block and director Rowan Joffe to have produced a drama which should not be missed.

11:00pm Glory 1:20am NFL 4:45am European Drag Racing 5:10am Neighbours 5:35am Home and Away

gairrhydd

OCTOBER.13.2008

TELEVISION

TELEVISION@gairrhydd.COM

TUESDAY In Her Defence BBC1 12.05am

Savile Row BBC2 11.20pm

BBC 1

BBC 2

6:00am CBeebies 6:00am Breakfast 12:00pm The Daily Politics 9:15am Real Rescues 10:00am Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is 11:00am Open House 11:30am Cash in the Attic 12:15pm Bargain Hunt

21

14th October Usher's Birthday

Who Wants To Be A Don't Make Me Millionaire?

Angry ITV1 8.00pm C4 11.25am ITV

Highland Emergency five 7.30pm

Channel 4

Five

6:00am GMTV Newshour 6:58am GMTV Today 8:35am LK Today 9:25am The Jeremy Kyle Show 10:30am This Morning 11:15am ITV News and Weather 11:20am ITV Wales News and Weather 11:25am This Morning 12:30pm Loose Women

6:00am Kids TV 7:00am Freshly Squeezed 7:30am US Sitcoms 9:25am Before and After 9:35am Impressionism: Revenge of the Nice 11:25am Don't Make Me Angry 12:00pm News at Noon 12:30pm Property Ladder

6:00am Kids TV 9:00am The Wright Stuff 10:30am Trisha Goddard 11:30am Grey's Anatomy 12:30pm Five News 12:45pm Going For Gold

1:00pm BBC News 1:30pm BBC Wales Today 1:45pm Doctors 2:15pm Diagnosis Murder 3:00pm BBC News 3:05pm CBBC

1:00pm Out of the Blue 1:25pm Coast 1:30pm Grand Prix Snooker

1:30pm ITV Lunchtime News and Weather 2:00pm 60 Minute Makeover 3:00pm The Alan Titchmarsh Show 4:00pm Midsomer Murders

1:30pm Designers Under Pressure 1:45pm Destination Gobi 3:25pm Countdown 4:15pm Deal or No Deal

1:45pm Neighbours 2:15pm Home and Away 2:50pm Going For Gold Extra 3:00pm Spoils of War

5:15pm The Weakest Link

5:15pm Escape to the Country

5:00pm Britain’s Best Dish

5:00pm The Paul O’Grady Show

5:00pm Five News 5:30pm Neighbours

6:00pm BBC News 6:30pm BBC Wales Today 7:00pm The One Show 7:30pm EastEnders 7:57pm BBC News and Regional News 8:00pm Holby City

6:00pm Eggheads 6:30pm Strictly Come Dancing - It Takes Two 7:00pm Grand Prix Snooker 8:00pm Twiggy's Frock Swap

6:00pm Wales Tonight 6:30pm ITV Evening News and Weather 7:00pm Emmerdale 8:00pm Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?

6:00pm The Simpsons 6:30pm Hollyoaks 7:00pm Channel 4 News 7:55pm 3 Minute Wonder: Frieze Films 2008: Road Movie 8:00pm The Sex Education Show

6:00pm Home and Away 6:30pm Lights, Camera, Animals 7:00pm Five News 7:30pm Highland Emergency 8:00pm Nature Shock

9:00pm Sunshine

9:00pm British Style Genius

9:00pm Cops With Cameras

9:00pm Jamie’s Ministry of Food

9:00pm CSI: Miami

10:00pm BBC News, BBC Wales Today 10:00pm Later Live...with Jools Holland 10:30pm Newsnight and BBC Weather 10:35pm Imagine...Dangerous Liaison

10:00pm News at Ten and Weather 10:35pm: Comedy Classics: Brass

10:00pm Dawn Porter: Geisha Girl

10:00pm CSI: NY

11:35pm Film 2008 with Jonathan 11:20pm Savile Row 12:20am Grand Prix Snooker Highlights Ross 1:10am Grand Prix Snooker Extra 12:05am In Her Defence 3:10am Joins BBC News 1:40am Weatherview 4:00am Contemporary Visions 1:45am Sign Zone

11:35pm: Sally Morgan: Star Psychic 12:30am Nightwatch With Steve Scott 1:25am Quincy, ME 2:15am Loose Women 3:05am The Jeremy Kyle Show

11:05pm The Family 12:10am Reaper 1:10am The Sea Inside 3:20am 3 Minute Wonder: Haunts

11:00pm Law and Order: SVU 12:00am The FBI Files 1:00am Disorderly Conduct 2:00am NASCAR: The Sprint Cup 2:50am USPGA Golf

PICK OF THE DAY Going For Gold, five, 12.45pm Are you missing your daily dose of embarrassingly bad daytime quiz shows? Well you’re in luck, as five have opted to bring back 'Going For Gold'. Rivalled only by Paul Daniels’ Wipeout and 'Wogan's Perfect Recall' in the quality department, the show’s new format sees Henry ‘Wogan-lite’ Kelly replaced by newsreader John Suchet in an attempt to make 'Countdown' seem 'down with the kids'. ‘Oh no!’ I hear you cry, ‘They’ve only gone and tampered with the original format. How will they ever reach the heights of the mid-90s?’ Well fear not, as the old classics are still there: ‘Beat the Buzzer’, ‘Four in a Row’ and – wait for it – the ‘Head-to-Head’ round. The viewer from home can now challenge the winner in ‘Going For Gold Extra’ at 2:50pm. You will never spend a weekday afternoon bored again. Going For Gold proves once and for all that there is more to five than Neighbours and CSI. Just not much more.

Night

22 gairrhydd

OCTOBER.13.2008

TELLY

TELEVISION@gairrhydd.COM

15th October Global Handwashing Day

WEDNESDAY

Silent Witness BBC1 10.45pm BBC 1

Escape To The Country BBC2 5.15pm BBC 2

The Bill: Hold Me Tight ITV1 8.00pm ITV 1

Countdown C4 3.25pm Channel 4 6:00am Kids TV 7:00am Freshly Squeezed 7:30am US Sitcoms 9:30am KNTV - Philosophy 10:00am Orange Rockcorps 11:00am Drugs: The Lowdown on Getting High 12:00pm News at Noon 12:30pm Property Ladder

Banged Up Abroad five 10.00pm Five

6:00am Breakfast 9:15am Real Rescues 10:00am Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is 11:00am Open House 11:30am Cash in the Attic 12:15pm Bargain Hunt

6:00am CBBC 11:00am A Graze with Danger 11:30am am.pm

6:00am GMTV Newshour 7:00am GMTV Today 8:35am LK Today 9:25am The Jeremy Kyle Show 10:30am This Morning 11:15am ITV News and Weather 11:25am This Morning 12:30pm Loose Women

1:00pm BBC News 1:30pm BBC Wales Today 1:45pm Doctors 2:15pm Diagnosis Murder 3:00pm BBC News 3:05pm CBBC

1:00pm See Hear 1:30pm Working Lunch 2:00pm Grand Prix Snooker

1:30pm ITV Lunchtime News and 1:35pm Retreat, Hell!

3:25pm Countdown Weather 4:15pm Deal or No Deal 2:00pm 60 Minute Makeover 3:00pm The Alan Titchmarsh Show 4:00pm Midsomer Murders

5:15pm The Weakest Link

5:15pm Escape to the Country

5:00pm Britain's Best Dish

6:00pm BBC News 6:30pm BBC Wales Today 7:00pm The One Show 7:30pm X-Ray 8:00pm My Family 8:30pm Coal House at War

6:00pm Eggheads 6:30pm Strictly Come Dancing - It Takes Two 7:00pm Dad's Army 7:30pm Match of the Day Wales

6:00pm The Simpsons 6:00pm Wales Tonight 6:30pm ITV Evening News and Weather 6:30pm Hollyoaks 7:00pm Channel 4 News 7:00pm Emmerdale 7:55pm 3 Minute Wonder: Frieze Films 7:30pm Coronation Street 8:00pm The Bill: Hold Me Tight (Part 2008: Road Movie 8:00pm Supernanny US One)

6:00pm Home and Away 6:30pm Lights, Camera, Animals 7:00pm Five News 7:30pm It Pays to Watch 8:00pm Axe Men

9:00pm Silent Witness

9:45pm Heroes

9:00pm Greatest Cities of the World 9:00pm The Family with Griff Rhys Jones

9:00pm Paul Merton in India

10:00pm BBC News 10:25pm BBC Wales Today 10:45pm Wildlife Crime with Iolo Williams 11:15pm Medium 12:00am Twelve Monkeys 2:00am Weatherview 2:05am Sign Zone: See Hear

10:30pm Newsnight

10:00pm Desperate Housewives 10:00pm News at Ten and Weather 10:35pm Belarus v England Highlights

10:00pm Banged Up Abroad

11:20pm Charley Boorman: Ireland to Sydney by Any Means 2:20am Grand Prix Snooker 3:10am Joins BBC News

11:40pm Ghosthunting With... Girls 11:05pm Jamie's Ministry of Food 12:05am 4 Music: T-Mobile TransmisAloud 12:35am Nightwatch with Steve Scott - sion: Collaboration 12:25am 4 Music: DJ Set Presents The Crime Futureheads

11:05pm Unbreakable 12:05am PartyPoker.com World Open IV 1:35am Major League Baseball 4:45am Race and Rally UK

PICK OF THE DAY Paul Merton In India, five, 9.00pm We might well complain about how this is nothing more than an excuse to watch someone else's holiday. We may argue that after sending Paul Merton to China, sending him thence to India is merely reinforcing the idea of a colonial Englishman popping across to have a look at the natives - aren't they jolly quaint, wot wot? I rather like it though. Paul's rather a nice chap, really, if only because he seems so bemused half the time by what's going on. It's like watching a slightly more intelligent, less-likely-toinadvertently-cause-offence version of Boris Johnson. You watch it, and can't help but be sucked in by the feeling that Merton's gone on a trip back in time, and in a moment he'll meet Poirot and Indiana Jones in a bar. Maybe that's just me, then, but there definitely is that feeling of a bygone era in the way the programme progresses.

5:00pm The Paul O'Grady Show

6:00am Kids TV 9:00am The Wright Stuff 10:30am Trisha Goddard 11:30am Grey's Anatomy 12:30pm Five News 12:45pm Going for Gold

1:45pm Neighbours 2:15pm Home and Away 2:50pm Going for Gold Extra 3:05pm Pronto

5:00pm Five News 5:30pm Neighbours

gairrhydd

OCTOBER.13.2008

TELLY

TELEVISION@gairrhydd.COM

THURSDAY Dragon's Eye BBC1 10.35pm

Newsnight US Election Debate BBC2 10.30pm

BBC 1

BBC 2

Stories From The Street ITV1 7.30pm ITV 1

16th October World Food Day

Don't Make Me Angry C4 11.35am Channel 4

Danger Men five 9.00pm Five

6:00am Breakfast 9:15am Real Rescues 10:00am Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is 11:00am Parade of the Heroes - Beijing 2008

6:00am CBBC 11:00am Educational TV 12:00pm The Daily Politics 12:30pm Working Lunch

6:00am GMTV Newshour 7:00am GMTV Today 8:35am LK Today 9:25am The Jeremy Kyle Show 10:30am This Morning 11:15am ITV News and Weather 11:25am This Morning 12:30pm Loose Women

6:00am Kids TV 7:00am Freshly Squeezed 7:30am US Sitcoms 9:30am KNTV - Philosophy 9:55am Hardeep Does Drinking 11:05am World of Difference 11:35am Don't Make Me Angry 12:00pm News at Noon 12:30pm Supernanny US

6:00am Kids TV 9:00am The Wright Stuff 10:30am Trisha Goddard 11:30am Grey's Anatomy 12:30pm Five News 12:45pm Going for Gold

1:00pm BBC News at One 1:30pm BBC Wales Today 1:45pm Doctors 2:15pm Diagnosis Murder 3:00pm BBC News 3:05pm CBBC

1:00pm Out of the Blue 1:25pm Coast 1:30pm Grand Prix Snooker

1:30pm ITV Lunchtime News and Weather 2:00pm 60 Minute Makeover 3:00pm The Alan Titchmarsh Show 4:00pm Midsomer Murders

1:25pm They Who Dare 3:25pm Countdown 4:15pm Deal or No Deal

1:45pm Neighbours 2:15pm Home and Away 2:50pm Going for Gold Extra 3:05pm Columbo Cries Wolf

5:15pm Blue Peter's Live 50th Birthday

5:15pm Escape to the Country

5:00pm Britain's Best Dish

5:00pm The Paul O'Grady Show

5:00pm Five News 5:30pm Neighbours

6:00pm BBC News at Six 6:30pm BBC Wales Today 7:00pm The One Show 7:30pm EastEnders 8:00pm The Planners Are Coming 8:30pm Accidental Heroes

6:00pm Eggheads 6:30pm Strictly Come Dancing - It Takes Two 7:00pm The Restaurant

6:00pm Wales Tonight 6:30pm ITV Evening News and Weather 7:00pm Emmerdale 7:30pm Stories From The Street 8:00pm The Bill: Hold Me Tight (Part Two)

6:00pm The Simpsons 6:30pm Hollyoaks 7:00pm Channel 4 News 7:55pm 3 Minute Wonder: Frieze Films 2008: Road Movie 8:00pm River Cottage Autumn

6:00pm Home and Away 6:30pm Lights, Camera, Animals 7:00pm Five News 7:30pm How Do They Do It? 8:00pm Apollo 13

9:00pm Silent Witness

9:00pm Never Mind the Buzzcocks 9:30pm Beautiful People

9:00pm Natural Born Sellers

9:00pm Bobski the Bulder

9:00pm Danger Men

10:00pm BBC News at Ten 10:25pm BBC Wales Today 10:35pm Dragon's Eye

10:00pm Sport Wales Special 10:30pm Newsnight US Election Debate Special

10:00pm News at Ten and Weather 10:40pm How The Other Half Live

10:00pm 8 Out of 10 Cats 10:35pm Star Stories

10:00pm Dog Soldiers

11:05pm Question Time 12:05am This Week 12:50am Holiday Weatherview

11:50pm The Graham Norton Show 12:20am Room 101 12:50am Grand Prix Snooker 3:40am Joins BBC News

11:10pm Sharp End 11:40pm The Guest List 12:10am Bingo Night Live 1:15am Motorsport UK

11:10pm When Women Rule the World 12:15am Company Limited 2:30am Reverend Death 4:00am A1: The Road Musical 4:25am St Elsewhere

12:15am Quiz Call 4:00am Major League Soccer 4:45am Wildlife SOS 5:10am Neighbours 5:35am Home and Away

PICK OF THE DAY Blue Peter's Live 50th Birthday, BBC1, 5.15pm Maybe it's not cool to like Blue Peter, and I freely admit I haven't seen an episode since the days of Katy Hill (remember her? She had some kind of strange relationship with that puppet aardvark.

Bestiality on the BBC...) but there's always been something magical about Blue Peter. I'm not sure if it's those ever-elusive badges - I'm still bitter that I never got one - or if it's all due to the fact you could pretend it was educational, while plotting how to get hold of some sticky-back plastic. What the hell is sticky-back plastic anyway? And why exactly is it good to put tortoises in a shoebox?

Damn it, these are the hard-hitting questions Blue Peter should be answering, not swanning off having a birthday party with the help of the Queen and McFly. Still, humming the tune constantly is a really good way to annoy your housemates. Especially the one who sets fire to the kitchen.

23

24 gairrhydd

OCTOBER.13.2008

TELLY

TELEVISION@gairrhydd.COM

FRIDAY

Bargain Hunt BBC1 12.15pm BBC 1

Out of the Blue BBC2 1.00pm BBC 2

17th October National Edge Day

Britain's Best Dish ITV1 5.00pm ITV 1

Don't Make Me Angry C4 11.25am

Going For Gold five 12.45pm

Channel 4

Five

6:00am Breakfast 9:15am Real Rescues 10:00am Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is 11:00am Open House 11:30am Cash in the Attic 12:15pm Bargain Hunt

6:00am CBBC 12:00pm The Daily Politics 12:30pm Working Lunch

6:00am GMTV Newshour 6:58am GMTV Today 9:25am The Jeremy Kyle Show 10:30am This Morning 12:30pm Loose Women

6:00am Kids TV 7:00am Freshly Squeezed 7:30am Everybody Loves Raymond 8:00am Just Shoot Me 9:00am Frasier 9:30am KNTV - Philosophy 9:55am Mum's Gone Gay 11:25am Don't Make Me Angry 12:00pm News at Noon 12:30pm Supernanny

6:00am Kids TV 9:00am The Wright Stuff 10:30am Trisha Goddard 11:30am Grey's Anatomy 12:30pm Five News 12:45pm Going for Gold

1:00pm BBC News 1:30pm BBC Wales Today 1:45pm Doctors 2:15pm Diagnosis Murder 3:00pm BBC News 3:05pm CBBC

1:00pm Out of the Blue 1:25pm Coast 1:30pm Live Snooker

1:30pm ITV Lunchtime News and Weather 2:00pm 60 Minute Makeover 3:00pm The Alan Titchmarsh Show 4:00pm Midsomer Murders

1:20pm The Silent Enemy 3:25pm Countdown 4:15pm Deal or No Deal

1:45pm Neighbours 2:15pm Home and Away 2:50pm Going for Gold Extra 3:05pm Is There Life Out There?

5:00pm Newsround 5:15pm The Weakest Link

5:15pm Escape To The Country

5:00pm Britain's Best Dish

5:00pm The Paul O'Grady Show

5:00pm Five News 5:30pm Neighbours

6:00pm BBC News 6:30pm BBC Wales Today 7:00pm The One Show 7:30pm A Question of Sport 8:00pm EastEnders 8:30pm Coal House at War

6:00pm Eggheads 6:30pm Strictly Come Dancing - It Takes Two 7:00pm Live Snooker 8:00pm Mastermind 8:30pm Gardeners' World

6:00pm Wales Tonight 6:30pm ITV Evening News and Weather 7:00pm Emmerdale 7:30pm Coronation Street 8:00pm Claim and Shame: Tonight 8:30pm Coronation Street

6:00pm The Simpsons 6:30pm Hollyoaks 7:00pm Channel 4 News 7:35pm Unreported World 8:00pm A Place in the Sun: Home or Away

6:00pm Home and Away 6:30pm Lights, Cameras, Animals 7:00pm Five News 7:30pm Daring Raids of World War II 8:00pm Police Interceptors

9:00pm Have I Got News For You 9:30pm Little Britain USA

9:00pm The American Future: A History,

by Simon Schama

9:00pm Wire in the Blood

9:00pm Ugly Betty

9:00pm NCIS

10:00pm BBC News 10:33pm BBC Weather 10:35pm Friday Night with Jonathan Ross 11:35pm National Lottery EuroMillions Draw 11:40pm Judgement Night

10:00pm QI 10:30pm Newsnight

10:00pm Al Murray's Happy Hour

10:00pm Law and Order: Special Victims Unit

11:00pm Newsnight Review 11:35pm Later... with Jools Holland

11:00pm The Late News and Weather 11:45pm Bingo Night Live

10:00pm Alan Carr's Celebrity Ding Dong 10:50pm Frank Skinner Live at Birmingham Hippodrome 11:55pm 4Music Presents; Snow Patrol

PICK OF THE DAY Little Britain USA, BBC1, 9.30pm It's about time we talked about Little Britain USA in the Telly pages; we have tried to ignore it for too long. Little Britain has returned to our screens in a slightly altered format to try and woo America round to their crude sense of humour. America is well know for it's prudish attitude; wardrobe malfunctions can become major scandals, so it's interesting to see how they will react to the penises and breasts (albeit prosthetic) that are exposed during the half hour shows. I get the feeling America might simply not get the joke, but then is Little Britain even funny? Thinking back to the past three series my mind gets blocked by visions of vomiting women and urinating grannies, but these are merely the low points of this show. Little Britain has actually had some brilliantly funny sketches, one involving a pirate memory game, and some of that magic is still there. It's not perfect but can still make me laugh.

11:00pm Law and Order 12:00am Quiz Call

gairrhydd

OCTOBER.13.2008

TELLY

TELEVISION@gairrhydd.COM

SATURDAY Hole in the Wall BBC1 5.35pm

Beautiful People BBC2 11.40pm

BBC 1

BBC 2

Channel 4

Mean Machines of War five 12.00pm Five

6:10am Kids TV 7:00am British Formula 3 International Series 8:00am The Morning Line 9:00am T4: Sugababes 9:50am T4: Everybody Loves Lil Chris 10:20am T4: Friends 10:55am T4: Friends 11:25am T4: The Hills 11:55am T4: Reaper 12:55pm Red Bull Air Race 2008 2:00pm Channel 4 Racing 4:00pm Brothers and Sisters

6:00am Kids TV 10:00am The Gadget Show 11:00am Axe Men 12:00pm Mean Machines of War 12:50pm Daring Raids of Word War II

5:00pm ITV News and Weather 5:30pm To Be Announced

5:00pm Brothers and Sisters

6:00pm Biloxi Blues

8:10pm Timewatch

7:00pm To Be Announced 7:30pm The X Factor

6:30pm Channel 4 News 7:00pm River Cottage Autumn 8:00pm Time Team Special: Swords, Skulls and Strongholds

7:50pm Five News and Sport 8:00pm NCIS 8:55pm NCIS

9:00pm Have I Got a Bit More News for You 9:30pm Grand Prix Snooker

9:00pm All Star Family Fortunes 9:45pm The X Factor Results

9:00pm Failure to Launch

9:55pm CSI: Crime Scene Investigation

10:15pm ITV News 10:30pm D-Tox

10:50pm In Good Company

10:55pm Law and Order: Criminal Intent

12:20am Bingo Night Live 1:20am Nightwatch With Steve Scott 2:20am Sneakers

1:00am Days and Nights in the Forest

11:55pm Quiz Call 4:00am Wild Events

6:00am Breakfast 10:00am Saturday Kitchen 11:30am What To Eat Now 12:00pm BBC News 12:10pm Football Focus

6:00am CBBC 12:00pm Sound 12:30pm Scene Stealers

6:10am Grand Prix Qualifying 8:15am GMTV 10:50am Planet Sketch 11:00am Coronation Street Omnibus

1:00pm Grand Prix Snooker 2008 4:30pm Wales on Saturday

1:00pm Greek 1:45pm Revealed 2:00pm To Be Announced 4:30pm Grand Prix Snooker

1:10pm ITV News and Weather 1:20pm To Be Announced 3:30pm To Be Announced

5:15pm BBC News 5:35pm Hole in the Wall

5:10pm To Be Announced

6:05pm Strictly Come Dancing 7:35pm Merlin 8:20pm The National Lottery: Who Dares Wins

9:10pm Casualty

10:00pm BBC News 10:30pm Match of the Day

11:50pm MOBO Awards 2008 1:15am To Be Announced 2:45am Friday Night with Jonathan Ross

18th October Zac Efron's Birthday

The X Factor Results Days and Nights in ITV1 9.45pm the Forest C4 1.00am ITV 1

25

11:10pm Never Mind the Buzzcocks 11:40pm Beautiful People 12:10am To Be Announced 1:45am Grand Prix Snooker Extra

PICK OF THE DAY Failure to Launch, Ch4, 9.00pm Think of this as less of a pick of the day and more an excuse to use a picture of Zooey Deschanel as this film is simply awful; it took me two attempts to get through it and really wasn't worth the effort.

Any film that tries to persuade us Sarah Jessica Parker is capable of attracting men is onto a loser from the start. Parker is looking especially haggard next to Deschanel and the plot cannot save her.

With most films, you can roughly guess how it's all going to end but the journey is enjoyable enough for it not to matter; this is not the case here. The basic plot is that Parker is hired by a man's parents to get him to move out of their house by falling in love with her. Things obviously don't go to plan and the whole saga crumbles into a predictable romance. I'm sure Failure to Launch would be enjoyed by some of you but there really is no accounting for taste.

1:20pm Zoo Days 1:50pm Columbo: Uneasy Lies the Crown 3:50pm Last of the Dogmen

26 gairrhydd

OCTOBER.13.2008

TELLY

TELEVISION@gairrhydd.COM

SUNDAY The Story Of The Guitar BBC1 10:15am

Heroes BBC2 11.45pm

BBC 1 6:00am Breakfast 7:00am Moto GP: Round 17 Sepang 8:00am Breakfast 9:00am The Andrew Marr Show 10:00am Sunday Life 11:00am Countryfile 12:00pm The Politics Show

BBC 2

You've Been Framed ITV1 6.30pm ITV

Channel 4

S.W.A.T five 9.00pm Five

6:00am Kids' TV 9:25am F1: Chinese Grand Prix 10:05am The Championship 11:00pm CITV

6:10am Kids' TV 7:55am Iron Man 8:25am Freesports on 4 8:50am T4:Friends 9:25am T4:Hollyoaks Omnibus 11:55pm T4:Frock Me

6:00am Kids' TV 10:00am To Be Announced 11:00am Deadliest Outback Predators: Austin Stevens' Adventures

1:00pm Gymnastics 2:30pm Grand Prix Snooker

12:15pm ITV News and Weather 12:25pm The X Factor 1:55pm The X Factor Results 2:25pm Film To Be Announced

12:45pm T4:Friends 1:15pm T4:Ugly Betty 2:15pm T4:When Women Rule the World 3:20pm T4:The Simpsons 3:50pm T4:The Simpsons 4:20pm Deal or No Deal

12:00pm To Be Announced 12:55pm Brian's Song 2:45pm Last Of The Dogmen 4:55pm The Witches

5:00pm To Be Announced

5:05pm Born Survivor: Bear Grylls

6:00pm ITV Wales News and Weather 6:15pm ITV News and Weather 6:30pm You've Been Framed!

7:00pm To Be Announced 8:00pm Heartbeat

6:05pm Channel 4 News 6:25pm Dr Dolittle 2 8:00pm Peter Kay's Britain's Got the Pop Factor

6:40pm Five news 6:55pm Dirty Dancing

9:00pm A Touch of Frost

9:15pm One Hundred And Eighty: The Tour Documentary

9:00pm S.W.A.T

6:00pm Teaching Awards 2008 7:00pm The American Future: A History,

by Simon Schama 8:00pm Grand Prix Snooker

9:00pm To Be Announced

10:15pm Peter Kay's Britain's Got the Pop Factor: The Results

10:00pm BBC News 10:15pm The Story Of The Guitar

11:15pm Match Of The Day 2

The Simpsons C4 3.20pm

6:00am Kids' TV 9:00am Escape from Scorpion Island 9:30am Match of the Day 11:00am Something For The Weekend 12:30pm Film 2008 with Jonathan Ross

1:00pm EastEnders 1:50pm Tess Of The D'ubervilles 2:50pm The Sarah Jane Adventures 3:30pm Lifeline 3:45pm Merlin 4:30pm Points of View 4:45pm Songs of Praise 5:00pm To Be Announced

6:55pm BBC News 7:15pm Antiques Roadshow 8:15pm Strictly Come Dancing: Results

19th October Sinitta's Birthday

11:00pm Graham Norton Uncut 11:45pm Heroes

11:00pm ITV News and Weather 11:15pm F1: Chinese Grand Prix Highlights

PICK OF THE DAY Dirty Dancing, five, 6.55pm Well, if ever there was a film about a bit of summer lovin' which never failed to tug at those old, embedded heart strings (Grease aside), this would be it. An old-time favourite of mine and ultimate classic: yes, my friends, Dirty Dancing has a slot on primetime TV tonight and boy, am I excited! The Swayze and Grey combination is second to none and to this day, modern takes on this fim still fall far from the mark in their choices of leading ladies and men. The likes of Julia Stiles and Sean Patrick Thomas (Save The Last Dance) will never, and can never, compete with the achievements of Baby and old snake hips himself... After all, it's only once in a blue moon that you can make dancing whilst carrying a watermelon look remotely cool, as Grey demonstrates. Inevitably, this Sunday I will be clearing my schedule in preparation for those now-infamous words: "Nobody puts baby in the corner"! Arghhhh!!

11:00pm Kingpin

11:20pm Disorderly Conduct

D O YO U ? ?? ?

TO SAY? HAVE SO M ET HI NG

Have a thirst for news? A passion for sport? An opinion you need to express? Can you dig for stories? Pen a feature? Review a film? Give your heroes a grilling? Rate a gig?

CAN YOU

WRITE?

ing for contribuCardiff University’s national award-winning student media are always look ions in the countors hungry for the opportunity to work with two of the best student publicat rience necessary. try. Pop up and visit us on the 4th floor of the Students’ Union. No expe

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gair

CARIDFF’S STUDENT WEEKLY

rhydd

free word - EST. 1972

T LIFESTYLE

EN CARDIFF STUD

- SINCE 2003

28 gairrhydd

OCTOBER.13.2008

LISTINGS

LISTINGS@gairrhydd.COM

Out of the loop? Sitting at home scratching yourself? We can help. This

The Listings Top Five...

Rubbish things to watch on Freeview Freeview is probably the best thing to happen to students since the dawn of time. All those channels. All that rubbish TV. It's a veritable goldmine for those inclined towards procrastination.

With so much trash to peruse, it's not always easy to get it right: 1. Come Dine With Me Ever wondered what would happen if you threw together a group of five strangers and made them all throw a dinner party for each other? Probably not, but it's great watching the sniping unfold, not to mention the kitchen disasters. And there's always one really really fussy eater, just to throw a spanner in the works. Quelle surprise.

2. Top Gear If you're male, you can fantasise about owning the cars. If you're female, you can fantasise about Richard Hammond in a 'I-really-shouldn't-but-it-could-beour-guilty-secret' type of way. And if you're sane, you can fantasise about following Piers Morgan's lead and socking Clarkson a good one in his awful smug face.

Monday

13/10/08 FUN FACTORY @ SOLUS You know you love it. Indie, alternative, old 90’s classics and ROCK!! Oh, and sweat.

And maybe sick.

7pm-2am, free entry.

SNUG @ GLO BAR Relaxed beats and weekly drinks specialities ranging from vodkas, whiskies to Ales.

Unusual hey? Bugs and rugs not included.

9pm, £3 PLASTIC LITTLE @ CLWB IFOR BACH Plastic Little / Tiger Please / Young Sensation / Vinyl Vendettas DJs bust their grooves at Welsh Club this Monday. Straight outta Philly, you won't want to miss the wittiest rappers around. Like Woody Allen during his funny period, only more ghetto...and rappers.

7.30, £7 DIGITAL @ OCEANA Another student night with the meaningless 'official' prefix. Kiss 101 DJ and a Chambull reception. Classy.

9pm-3am VODKA ISLAND @ TIGER TIGER They say that no man is an island. They may or may not be right. You know what definitely isn't an island? Yup, vodka. It has absolutely no buoyancy. Everyone would clearly just be treading water. I mean vodka.

You get the point.

Free before 9pm, £3 after

3. My Super Sweet 16 Everyone hates bratty American teens who've been spoilt rotten by hideously indulgent parents. Or, at the very least, everyone loves to rant at them via their TV screens and moan that all they did for their 16th was a trip to Pizza Hut.

Wednesday

Tuesday

15/10/08

14/10/08

ROMEO AND JULIET @ NEW THEATRE Every English Lit A level student worth their salt loves this play. Mainly because there's a good film version which cuts down on reading time. I still love it. And Leo. Former Eastender Jack Ryan is in this version though.

Prepare to be outshone DiCaprio. Your boyish good looks and status as Scorsese's muse doesn't impress me half as much as sharing screen time with Pat Butcher.

7.30, £8.50 YEAR OF THE PUG @ CLWB IFOR BACH: Irony rules in the year of the pug. Pretty much anything could happen. And a sweet shop too.

10pm - 2am, £2/£3.

DISCOUNT LOCK IN @ H & M H&M Cardiff will open their doors to all students with valid student cards this Monday and will be offering a 10% Discount. Apparently, you can Bop while you Shop with DJs in the store playing the best Electro / Disco / House / Chart / Funk & good time party tunes. Almost guaranteed not to be a sausage-fest. 6pm to 9pm.

QUEEN AND PAUL ROGERS @ CIA Permed old men strutting embarrassingly around a huge stage is not a pretty sight (though Big Cheese Ben Bryant seems oddly excited by it). However, Paul Rogers was in Free. And they were fucking awesome.

Doors 6.30pm, £49.50 LOSTPROPHETS DJ SET @ LIQUID This really is random... Lostprophets at Liquid? Have they really depreciated that much? Let's face it, it's probably the drummer reeling songs off his iPod. But I don't care, because it means Shipwrecked is dead.

9pm - 3am, £3.50 CHIC BEAT @ REVOLUTION The Rough Hill promotions team inflict their crap dancing monkey logo on the student body for another generic student night 9pm - 3am, £4 - £5

4. Airport There's something very, very wrong about watching this. Watching a fat man in a suit stress his way around Heathrow (imagine what he must make of Terminal 5!) finding lost passports and welcoming Posh and Becks should be neither amusing nor compulsive. But dammit, it is.

THE ELECTRIC CWTCH @ GLO BAR I heard that the glowing bar Glo Bar was named after was in fact a shard of Kryptonite that fell from the sky in front of the premises. Just think about that for a second. Yeah, it's big.

10pm - 3am, £3.

LISTEN UP! @ CLWB IFOR BACH The longest running indie night in Cardiff Wednesdays at Clwb Ifor Bach is an institution!

10:00pm, £2/£3 SIN BIN @ SOLUS Pop, chart, fitties and LAAAAAAAAADDDDDSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS Free entry 7-9, £3 after COOLBOX @ MILGI A new student night at City Road’s Milgi bar… Amazing cocktails, a great atmosphere & up & coming local DJs. Probably the most fun you can have without taking your clothes off and getting covered in jelly.

7.30pm, free COCK AND BULL @ TIGER TIGER The less I say about this night the better.

I'll only get myself in trouble. I will say however, that it isn't a video on YouPorn. Yet. Free, 8pm SOS @ CALCUTTA I quote: 'This is the Sound Of Students!'.

'Non-commercial' R&B, dance, drum 'n' bass, hip hop.

9pm - 4am, £3 SHOTGUN RULES @ REVOLUTION Popular student night at Revolution battles with Sin Bin for the coveted AU crowd. Who wins? You decide.

9pm - 2am, £2.50 BANDWAGON @ OCEANA Dance / R&B. Not exclusive to students.

9pm - 3am, £2 NUS, £3 others

10/10

5. Neighbours Ham acting. Generic sad music. THAT theme tune. It's ultimate student telly, 'nuff said. And besides, everybody needs good neighbours, don't they?

14/10

16/10

Students’ Union, Park Place, 02920 387421 www.cardiffstudents.com ◆ Med Club, Neuadd Meirionydd, Heath Park 02920 744948 ◆ Clwb Ifor Bach ros, Bakers Row 02920 399939 www.clubmetropolitan.com ◆ Dempseys, Castle Street 02920 252024 ◆ Iota, 7 Mill Lane 02920 225592 ◆ Jazz, 21 St. Mary Street 02920 387026 www.cafejazzcardiff.com ◆ The Riverbank Hotel, Despenser Street www.riverbankjazz.co.uk ◆ St. David’s Hall, Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay 0870 0402000 www.wmc.org.uk ◆ The New Theatre, Park Place 02920 878889 www.newtheatrecardiff.co.uk ◆ The Cardiff International Arena, Mary Ann Street 02920 224488 ◆ The Millennium Stadium Can’t miss it. www.millenniumstadium.com ◆ The Point,

≠

gairrhydd

OCTOBER.13.2008

29

LISTINGS

LISTINGS@gairrhydd.COM

week: kryptonite, impractical islands & Ol' Greg. Bailey's anyone?

Thursday 16/10/08

C-Y-N-T PRESENTS STYLE OF EYE @ CLWB IFOR BACH Tipped to be the one to watch for 2009, you can see him 1st at C-Y-N-T as he drops by from Stockholm. You can also admire his very nice beard.

10:30pm, £3.

MUMFORD & SONS @ CLWB IFOR BACH Critically acclaimed folk/bluegrass newbies Mumford & Son come to delight us with their lovely music, fresh off the back of supporting the new queen of Britfolk, Laura Marling. With banjos galore, only a moron would refuse.

7.30, £6

Friday

Saturday

17/10/08

18/10/08

THE MIGHTY BOOSH @ CIA Coming at you like a hot flannel, that spangley dude and his moustachioed friend come to confuse Cardiff with their silliness. I'm Ol Greeeeeeeeeeeeg!

6.30, £25

LUSH @ SOLUS R’n’B, poppy stuff, funky house & electro.

All under the wonderfully elegant name of Lush.

Free entry 7-9pm, £3 after.

PETER CONWAY @ CF10 The first Live Music Nights in CF10 present blues peddler Peter Conway for your pleasure. Mmmmm, earthy.

8pm, £3

COME PLAY @ SOLUS Possibly the best established night at the Union. Better music this year too.

9pm - 2am, £3

Sunday

19/10/08

WE LOVE SUNDAES @ INCOGNITOS Pretty much the only Sunday night out. Resident DJs include Skinny White Boys and Killer Tomato. Sweets and treats too.

8pm - 3am, FREE before 10pm, £3 after.

ROCKSTAR TASTE OF CHAOS TOUR @ GREAT HALL As I Lay Dying, Atreyu and more.

RRRRRROOOOOOOOOCCCK!!!!

7pm £17.50

VOODOO @ RISA Student night.

9pm-3am, £4

MISHMASH - 10 FEET TALL Featuring the best new bands, solo acts and guest DJs every month. This week, Cardiff University alumni Picture Books in Winter, World Indie Empire, UNscene and Toy Horses. Picture Books singer Will Hitchins sleeps in purple satin sheets apparently.

MMMM decadent.

8pm till late, £4 DJ DEREK @ GLO BAR The Legendary 'DJ DEREK' alongside Truth & Rueben. Playing his 'sweet' mix of Reggae, Dancehall, Ska and Rocksteady he will, apparently, 'have you skanking till the am'.

Can't argue with that...What's skanking?

Oh. Right. It's a dance. Cool.

9pm - 3am, £3 GLAMOURPUSS @ GLAM Hotly tipped contender for tackiest club of the year, tonight Glam are inviting Cardiff's most discerning clientele through their doors to mingle amidst the sophisticated surroundings in a 'Camo Party'. That's camouflage. Yes, really, a camouflage party.

9pm - 4am, £3 NUS

pick of the week

19/10

16/10

MISCHIEF @ TIGER TIGER Another generic student night.

9pm - 2am, £4 - £5 UPRISING @ GLO BAR Jerk chicken and rice and peas available from the BBQ!! Whaaaaat?! Reggae, dancehall and a 12k soundsystem.

9pm - 3am, £3 THE STRANGLERS @ SOLUS "Golden brown, texture like sun / Lays me down, with my mind she runs / Throughout the night / No need to fight / Never a frown with my golden brown" 7pm, £23

16/10

18/10

(The Welsh Club), 11 Womanby Street 02920 232199 www.clwb.net ◆ Barfly, Kingsway, Tickets: 08709070999 www.barflyclub.com/cardiff ◆ MetIncognito, Park Place 02920 412190 ◆ Liquid, St. Mary Street 02920645464 ◆ The Philharmonic, 76-77 St. Mary Street 02920 230678 ◆ Café The Hayes 02920 878444 www.stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk ◆ Chapter Arts Centre, Market Road, Canton 02920 304400 www.chapter.org ◆ Wales Sherman Theatre, Senghennydd Road 02920 646900 www.shermantheatre.co.uk ◆ The Glee Club, Mermaid Quay 0870 2415093 www.glee.co.uk ◆ Cardiff Bay, 02920 460873 www.thepointcardiffbay.com ◆ Tommy’s Bar, Howard Gardens (off Newport Road) 02920 416192 ◆

30 gairrhydd

OCTOBER.13.2008

GRAB

GRAB@gairrhydd.COM

WIN! WIN! WIN! WIN! WIN! WIN! WIN! WIN! WIN! WIN! WIN! WIN! WIN! WIN! WIN!

N

ow we're all back to work, it's important to keep your computer protected from viruses. There's nothing worse than losing everything to a "Trojan horse" or "worm" - despite their funny names there's nothing amusing about those little buggers.

The lovely people at Symantec have given us the latest Norton 360 allin-one Internet safety software to give away. It's easy to install and will protect your computer from all kinds of nasties without you having to lift a finger. Your work, music, photos and whatever else you have lurking on there will be protected, so you won't lose out if you're invaded by bugs.

We have FIVE boxed copies of Norton 360 Internet safety software to give away. To win, answer the following question: What is the proper name for data used to identify a web user and their browsing habits? a) Shortcakes b) Cookies c) Trifles Send your name, address and answer to the email address above.

H

alloween's coming! Yeah, it's not for a couple of weeks but why not get in the mood with some gory DVDs? Most likely condemned by psychologists as mentally damaging, these scary films will definitely give you the willies.

Gather up your housemates for a scream-fest, or watch one with a sexy person for sneaky frightened frotting. Guaranteed sexytime, for sure.

We have FIVE to give away! Just answer this question: Who is the female lead in Open Water? a) Blanchard Ryan b) Meg Ryan c) Ryan Reynolds

Send your name, address and answer to the email address above.

WIN! WIN! WIN! WIN! WIN! WIN! WIN! WIN! WIN! WIN! WIN! WIN! WIN! WIN! WIN!

gairrhydd

OCTOBER.13.2008

31

FIVE MINUTE FUN

FMF@gairrhydd.COM

found on facebook Housemate done something stupid?

sudoku.

1. Log on to the book of face 2. Join the group â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Found on Facebookâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; 3. Upload embarrassing photos 4. Pick up gair rhydd on Monday and laugh

EASY

Quick Crossword Across

Down

1. ____ Hugh Munro, real name of the writer Saki (6) 5. Periods of sovereignty (6) 8. Sharpen by rubbing (4) 9. Operation ____, 1975 war film about the assassination of Heydrich (8) 10. In a careless manner (8) 11. Somewhere ____, Razorlight hit (4) 12. Upward incline (6) 14. Robs by trickery (6) 16. Homework (4) 18. Authorise or attribute (8) 20. The ____ Breaks, 1976 Marlon Brando film (8) 21. Arlene ____, glamorous 1950s Hollywood actress (4) 22. Open shoe with straps (6) 23. Practice of baring all (6)

2. Breathes out (7) 3. Add together (3,2) 4. Provocation (3,3,2,1,4) 5. Percussion players (6,7) 6. Nationality of Liverpool player Yossi Benayoun (7) 7. Draws close (5) 13. Unprotected (7) 15. Japanese girls trained to provide entertainment for men (7) 17. Indian side dish similar to tzatziki (5) 19. Came to a close (5)

Send more oddities!

MEDIUM

1

2

3

8

4

HARD

5

7

9

10

this week's

G

- spot

11

12

16

6

13

17

14

18

15

19

20

21

Natalie Parsons papped Glyn with her camera phone last week... she was smitten

Spotted Glyn recently?

22

23

Glyn, BB7 mega-star, is studying Welsh and Spanish at Cardiff University. Join the G-spot facebook group and upload your photos!

gairrhydd

OCTOBER.13.2008

33

SPORT

SPORT@gairrhydd.COM

THE WORD ON...

...the rudderless ship that is Tottenham Hotspur FC

Scott D'Arcy Sports Editor

W

hite Hart Lane has witnessed many ups and downs during it's resident club's long history. But the current rut that Juande Ramos and co. find themselves in, seven games into the Premier League season, represents Tottenham’s lowest trough for around 100 years.

With just two points from seven games, Spurs sit bottom of the Premiership, and are in a worse position than Derby County were at this stage last season. Even Newcastle, who have, to say the least, had a far more turbulent start to the season, have got a win under their belts.

It would be fair to say that the club’s loyal fans have long endured crippling inconsistency and frustratingly frequent false dawns. Yet two fifth place finishes and regular qualification for the UEFA cup under one of the most successful managers in their recent history, makes this latest dip in form even harder to swallow.

The sacking of Martin Jol, now manager of Bundesliga leaders Ham-

burg, was the first mistake. It was a premature, knee-jerk reaction that ultimately set the club back a few years.

The club's loyal fans have long endured crippling inconsistency and frequent false dawns Jol’s recent success merely rubs salt into the wound.

The problems at Spurs are numerous, some due to managerial shortcomings, but most due to a poor transfer policy, rash decision-making and, at times, a questionable mental attitude in the dressing room.

It seems the fire-sale of both Dimitar Berbatov and club talisman Robbie Keane have had an extremely adverse affect, not necessarily on capability but certainly on mentality. Every game this season, heads have dropped after conceding, or frustration at being unable to score has crept in.

Ramos, in his enviable wisdom, has identified this as a problem, commenting: “When you don’t score goals it is not easy to win”. The fact that own goals have been the second highest source of goals, behind Darren Bent, is an appalling statistic.

The strikers should not shoulder all the blame for the lack of goals, as the midfield

appears weak in possession and the delivery when in good positions is often poor. The departure of Steed Malbranque has been a key factor in this.

There is a sense of sympathy for Ramos though, as he is forced to work with a young team that has struggled to deal with the physicality of the Premiership, particularly Luka Modric and Roman Pavlyuchenko. There is distinct lack of leadership on the pitch with Ledley King frequently out through injury and Keane gone, while Ramos seems to struggle to command the team from the touchline.

The only glimmer of hope for fans, and probably the management, is that these kind of things happen in the cutthroat sink or swim business football has become, and they are temporary.

While morale is low and leadership continues to be lacking then nothing will change, but the new players will settle in to their environment eventually and slowly regain their confidence.

The key to this is time, although it is limited.

But before Daniel Levy and his board start to panic, like they did with Jol last season, they need to realise that firing Ramos would be the worst possible solution, even if they reinstalled Jol. This would only serve to add to the problems that already exist

The sacking of Martin Jol was a kneejerk reaction that set the club back a few years and any new manager would want to form the team in his own image, much like Ramos has tried to do.

Jol himself has recently commented

on Spurs’ lack of “identity”, citing the loss of the English core as a main reason for this. He said in an interview with Sky: “I feel if you work for an English club you need an English identity and I think that worked.”

There will be few who question this philosophy, indeed Manchester United and Liverpool can vouch for the benefits of having a core of English players.

Responsibility for this may not rest with Ramos alone as Damien Comolli, Tottenham’s Director of Football, deals with the transfer policy. The Berbatov fiasco aside, it seems highly irrational to employ a strategy which involves selling two seasoned and respected international strikers so near to the end of the deadline without first ensuring that appropriate signings have been made to fill the void.

Twenty-one year old Frazier Campbell, part of the Berbatov deal, does not cut it as a viable replacement for a regular 20-a-season goal scorer and Giovanni dos Santos, only 19, has struggled to settle into the rigours of English foot-

ball.

Furthermore, the big name signing of Roman Pavlyuchenko has yet to justify the £14m transfer fee.

Ultimately, however, the current problems Tottenham face have been brought about due to persistent failings by the board.

Levy again proved himself a shrewd businessman with the £50m he managed to get for Keane and Berbatov, but also showed he is not so astute in his

knowledge of football.

Bernie Kingsley, of the Tottenham Supporters’ Trust highlighted a persistent undercurrent of Levy’s tenure in an interview with BBC Sport say-

"The people who run the club are obsessed with making money"

ing: “The people who run the club are obsessed by making money and they seem to think that volume, in terms of player transfer activity, adds up to quality. It isn't. Football has become obsessed with money and Tottenham are an arch example of that.”

Indeed, the duration of Levy’s chairmanship has been littered with similar dealings, and this latest crisis may be the final nail i n the coffin.

Rumours abound that a m e g a rich Asian business man has expressed an interest in the club.

However, these rumours are not necessarily good news because, as Comolli says himself: “We need stability. We don’t need change. We need results.” Never a truer word.

34 gairrhydd

OCTOBER.13.2008

SPORT

SPORT@gairrhydd.COM

The IMG Roundup

Tigers claw their way into History

Marc Edwars IMG Reporter

Marc Edwars IMG Reporter

Samba Tigers 5 - 5 AFC History

AN EXCITING pre-season friendly rekindled the troubled flame of IMG football last Wednesday as newcomers FC Samba Tigers went head-to-head with the experienced AFC History.

The Tigers side, depleted due to injury and illness started poorly as History stormed into an early 2-0 lead, but showed great resolve to come back in to the game. Max Barrett began the comeback when he nutmegged a defender and slotted home.

The Tigers then equalised, pouncing on a chance when the ball stopped in an unfortunately placed puddle at the centre of the History penalty area.

John Fisher arrived, slotting the ball calmly past the stranded goalkeeper.

Fisher pounced again to give the Tigers the lead with a clinical finish leaving AFC History stunned. Before the half was over, Captain Marc Edwards put in a strong challenge to regain possession for the Tigers, Pete Gardner picked up the ball on the wing and picked out Barrett who expertly lobbed the ball over the goalkeeper to increase the lead. FC Samba Tigers walked off at half-time with their heads held high.

With the score at 4-2, the Tigers

RUGBY RATIONED

looked confident of securing an impressive win but a costly choice of footwear left their goalkeeper struggling to move across his area as a misplaced through ball ended up nestled in the back of the net.

Once again the Tigers responded stoutly. At a corner initially cleared by the defence, the ball was played back in by Adam Hobson whose flick-on was met by Jon Fisher, bundling the ball home and grabbing a hat-trick against his old club in the process. At the other end, Ryan Edwards made a stunning save to preserve the twogoal cushion as the regular goalkeeper was off the field changing his footwear. However, on his return, AFC History scored from a poorly defended corner as the tension grew.

With the game reaching fever pitch, an attacking substitution by AFC History paid dividends when a low cross was converted by their pacy striker. Although that was the end of the game’s goals, supporters were treated to an action packed final 20 minutes, with both teams hitting the woodwork on numerous occasions.

Substitute Ryan Edwards wreaked havoc in the box with his menacing long throws, whilst both teams wasted glorious chances to win the game at the death. The match finally ending honours even.

After the game current Tigers striker and ex-AFC History player Jon Fisher said, “It’s always nice to score against your old side, so obviously I’m delighted to bag a hat-trick.”

THE SURVIVAL of IMG rugby was dealt a hefty blow this week as the prospective start up costs of the newly proposed plan were revealed to the IMG teams.

The totalled cost of coaching and refereeing courses amounted to a staggering £8,800. This would give all eight IMG rugby teams a Level 2 coach and a Level 2 referee making the league completely self-sufficient and in the long term sustainable.

Scott Pigott, AU President, dispelled the disheartened mood of the IMG captains by potentially offering to subsidise half of the project.

This would mean each team would have to raise £550 through sponsorship, membership and fundraising.

However Steve Wilford, Manager of Membership Services and Democracy, stated that the AU would expect a “similarly large commitment from the IMG clubs” if they were to offer such a large subsidy in order to get IMG rugby up and running again.

It was also stressed by Scott that the coaching and refereeing programs would only be open to enthusiastic and committed first years so

that the IMG would get the full return from the AU funding.

James Lander, Engineering Captain, admitted that he “Felt pretty pessimistic on seeing the figure written down” but added “I have faith in Scott and Steve’s enthusiasm to carry IMG through this rough patch.”

The primary long term concern is that the progress made this year will be lost with the inevitable change in personnel. Steve emphasised that “There needs to be a firm structure in place for the years to come.” The AU will be working hard towards a concise and realistic step-by-step action plan in the following weeks, which will hopefully secure the survival of IMG rugby.

Scott’s advice to address IMG rugby’s waning enthusiasm was to “really get on board with the touch rugby league. Although it’s not an ideal solution it does provide a structure.”

Touch rugby appears to be the sole option for the foreseeable future. Although it would seem that IMG is teetering on the brink, Scott remains optimistic and sees it this as an opportunity to “Strip it all down and start again with a firmer foundation.”

Adam Smith, Law Captain, expressed his anxiety: “If we don’t provide anything short term it could so easily fall apart.”

Team Talk: Bioscience Rugby playing style?

What are your greatest achievements?

If the team were an animal what would it be?

Starting last season with only six players made life a bit tough so now having a squad of 25 makes winning a tad easier! It has also been great to see the development of some of the lads who had never even played before last season and are now a key part of the team.

I would have to say a Ferret! We are not the biggest or most physical team in the world but we aren’t half hard to catch!

I’d have to say All Blacks. The front row has the hands of Carter and the vision of Cipriani! We certainly don't have many Andrew Sheridans in the squad.

Any nicknames within the team?

Who is the team prima donna?

24/7 Fat is one that I strongly resent and disagree with, although the eating of chocolate sundaes in the pub after training probably means it is justified! Stupid has to be the winner though. The name came from his Forest Gump-esque running style and his failure to understand the rules of drinking games.

The controversial choice would have to be Ed Fox-Smith. The Prop fancies himself as a little bit of a fly half and loves to tell people about his amazing ball skills! Fox-Smith also sees himself as a bit of a fox with the ladies, especially towards the end of a night out in Walkabout!

Is there any favourite team banter?

Quite a few stories spring to mind but one stands out. Last year's team gokarting trip has led to quite a bit of banter. The front row had a few issues getting up a pretty mediocre hill as the karts were not powerful enough to carry the lads up. Big Will Greig had

to be given a rather large shove. The constant abuse is something the props have never forgotten, especially when it comes to contact training sessions!

Who are your biggest rivals?

It has to be Law. After our loss to them last year they gave us quite a bit of stick so our revenge in a training game recently was a great achievement.

Would you say you’re more like the All Blacks or England in your

Dates for your Diary: 28th October, 2nd December, 10th February, 17th March - Captains' Meetings in CF10 5:30pm for Netball, 6pm for Football

OCTOBER.13.2008 SPORT@gairrhydd.COM

gairrhydd

35

SPORT

AU Clubs Budget

Sport explains the key features of this year's budget Scott D'Arcy Sports Editor

THE YEAR'S AU clubs budget has been made available by the Athletic's Union for the first time ever, in an effort to increase transparency between clubs and the Union hierarchy.

The total allocation for AU clubs totals £48,054, representing a fairly large decrease of £14,042 on the previous year’s budget.

AU President Scott Pigott commented on his decision to release the budget: “I think it’s important that as a students' Athletic Union we should be transparent in terms of our funding.”

The decrease is not likely to be to the detriment of clubs though, as there is around a £20,000 contingency fund set aside that was not in place last year.

The income column refers to the estimated revenue generated by membership fees for each club. In most cases this level of income is matched by the AU’s allocation to that club, but any distribution of funds is capped to the level of income generated by the club itself.

This has created a surplus of £4,939 that may be distributed to those that requested it, should those clubs raise their income to the appropriate levels.

The expenditure column highlights how the allocations will be distributed between equipment, coaching subsidies, events, course subsidies and affiliations to national governing bodies.

Equipment subsidies for some of the more high risk activities, such as the martial arts clubs, are awaiting a safety audit to be carried out in order to find out what equipment is currently being used and whether any more is needed.

Clubs that take part in BUCS competition receive a higher coaching subsidy but are split into two tiers, reflecting their position in league competitions. Tier 1 refers to clubs in the upper echelons of BUCS competition, while tier 2 refers to those in the lower leagues.

As a new member of the AU, the clay pigeon-shooting club do not qualify for an allocation in the budget, even though they have not generated any revenue from membership.

The table tennis club have also not been allocated any funds due to incomplete information on the budget documentation submitted to the AU. However, income through membership is estimated at £750.

Scott emphasised that the budget is aimed at universal membership development and that “careful consideration was taken in deciding the distribution of funds to each club.”

Sport gairrhydd

INSIDE: AU Budget revealed, tough times for Spurs and the follow up to last week's IMG rugby meeting

IMMACULATE

DISSECTION Cardiff Medics falter in their maiden Premiership A voyage as they fall to a superior St. Mary's team at Llanrumney

Josh Pettitt Sports Editor

PHOTO: Jack Zorab

PHOTO: Liz Wray

Medic 1sts 3 - 16 St. Mary's -GAIR RHYDD AND QUENCH MAGAZINE IS PUBLISHED BY UNIVERSITY UNION CARDIFF, PARK PLACE, CARDIFF CF10 3QN

AN UNDER-STRENGTH and disorganized Cardiff Medics team failed to get their survival campaign off to a successful start as they went down 16-3 to a big and bruising St. Mary’s XV. It looked to be doom and gloom for the Medics in their first season of top - flight rugby, when they leaked two soft tries in the opening twenty minutes of the first half. An unfamiliar centre pairing led to momentary yet costly miscommunication allowing the St Mary's backs to slip through for early scores.

The Medics were guilty of paying too much respect to their larger counterparts in the first quarter of a hard fought, yet clumsy, game from both teams. Rather than stepping into the tackle the Medics were initially content to allow St.Mary's free reign in broken play.

However a rallying call from captain Hywel James saw the Medics regroup and gradually marched St Mary’s up the pitch with a succession of breakdown errors from the burly pack of St Mary’s forwards. Yet another penalty from an over eager St Mary’s player at the breakdown gifted the Medics their first scoring opportunity, a penalty in front of the posts which Dafydd Evans slotted over with ease.

A confident and well-drilled St Mary’s team soon snuffed out the Medics' chance of an early comeback.

St Mary’s fly-half Dave Whitehead, a former Saracens academy player, directed play well, stretching and exhausting the Medic defence until

eventually the Medics yielded six points and lost a player to the sin bin for cynical play.

With one man down and trailing by thirteen points, the second half could easily have turned into a rout.

However, the Medics have always enjoyed their reputation as the underdogs and the challenge seemed to bolster the Medics' resolve.

The forwards in particular put in a superb performance, spearheaded by the industrious Nick Carter and the stalwart Nick Willets. The pack won turn over ball at both set pieces and at the breakdown to provide their fleet footed backs with good ball from which to create scoring opportunities.

Unfortunately, the last crucial pass proved to be elusive throughout the afternoon and a determined St Mary’s plugged any defensive holes to prevent the Medics from scoring their maiden try in Premiership A. And yet the Medics corrected their early defensive naivety and the second half finished scoreless.

Although the Medics lost their opening game, they refuse to be overawed by the prospect of playing at such a high level. With greater cohesion and decision-making the Medics will soon overcome the frustration of their first outing.

Next week the Medics travel across the Severn Bridge to Bristol. With the almost untouchable Hartpury and UWIC dominating Premiership A, the Medics need to target next week as a must-win game if they are to survive this season.

Cardiff Medics are under no illusions that their backs are against the wall this season; fortunately for them they would not have it any other way.

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