NE Online Magazine issue 31

Hi Chris and welcome to NE Magazine, for the few readers who must be living in a cave somewhere and don’t know who you are how about giving th em a quick l ow- down o n yourself?

- Hello! Can’t help but think I’m writing your interview introduction for you here, oh well… I’m a stand-up comedian from South Shields and I’m also a bit of an actor now and then… but mainly a comedian… that might not come across as well as it should in print form, but I am.

So there.

At the moment it’s hard not seeing you on the TV when we switch it on as you’re everywhere, but what has been the highlight for you so far?

- Not everywhere though am I? If you turn on QVC and I’m selling a frying pan, just assume you’ll find me floating face down in a river very soon. The highlight for me so far was probably being in Hebburn. Since starting comedy I always wanted to try my hand at being in a sitcom too so I was over the moon to do one with my mate and so close to my heart, and I got to work with Vic Reeves.

I know you had a bit of a crazy time with fans wanting pics and autographs when you were having a few drinks in a South Shields bar recently, how are you finding this, does it put you off going out?

- Not at all. Any person in that position who has been on TV or whatever and people want photos (I’m trying my best not to say celebrity here!) who pretends they hate the attention is a liar. You don’t go for a career on TV because you don’t want anyone to notice you. As long as I’m not eating or having a shit when you want a photo then it’s no problem at all… I meant, like on the toilet, not just in the middle of the dancefloor.

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Have you had any weird fan requests or incidents?

- Not really. The odd person will show up to a gig with my face on a T-Shirt, or bake me a cake, or send me a dead animal in the post but other than that it’s just photos and autographs. A little kid in Hebburn when we were filming asked me to sign his micro scooter… that was a bit weird.

As well as being a bit of a regular on Celebrity Juice, Never Mind the Buzzcocks and 8 out of 10 Cats you are now starring in the North East based sitcom Hebburn, how did that come about?

- My mate and fellow comedian Jason Cook decided to write a sitcom about the town he was from, Hebburn, and he actually wrote me a little side part which he named after me. But when it came to being made the BBC asked me to read for the main character, and when I got it, Jason took the part that he’d written for me! It came about so gradually that I didn’t really realise the enormity of being lead role in a BBC2 sitcom until I saw the advert on TV. I nearly passed out.

How has the response for Hebburn been so far?

- Overwhelmingly positive.

And we just won Best Drama at the RTS North awards too. And we’ve got a second series!

You are now embarking on your biggest tour to date, how do you feel about this?

- Yeah incredible! It’s an extension of my last tour, Feeling Lucky. I did 60+ dates in 2012 but the demand for tickets was so high and people enjoyed the show so much that I’m doing another 40 odd dates this year in much bigger venues. I can’t wait to get back out on the road.

Are there any venues on the tour that you are looking forward to playing or any you’re quite nervous about?

- The Theatre Royal in Newcastle. I absolutely can’t wait. I used to watch panto there when I was a kid. I’m

We l c o m e N o t e .

I t ’s n e a r l y e v e r y o n e s f a v o u r i t e t i m e o f t h e y e a r. . . S t a r Wa r s r e l e a s e d a y.

I t ’s a l s o n e a r l y C h r i s t m a s s o t h a t w i l l ke e p e v e r y o n e e l s e h a p p y h a h a .

We h o p e y o u a l l h a v e a f a n t a s t i c C h r i s t m a s a n d a v e r y m e r r y N e w Ye a r a n d w e l o o k fo r w a r d t o s e e i n g w h a t 2 0 1 8 b r i n g s fo r u s a l l . A l l t h e g e s t one and all.

As always, if you have something you want to see in a future issue then d o n ’ t fo r g e t t o d r o p u s a n e m a i l t o wayne. groves@neonlinemagazine. com P l u s r e m e m b e r t o fo l l o w u s o n Fa c e b o o k a n d Tw i t t e r fo r o u r r e g u l a r updates on events and competitions.

Till next time Ta ke c a r e Wa y n e

EDITOR & DESIGNER Wayne Groves wayne.groves@neonlinemagazine.com

Cineworld Boldon www.cineworld.co.uk The Theatre Royal Newcastle & Newcastle City Hall www.theatreroyal.co.uk/ Ocean Beach Pleasure Park www.oceanbeach.co.uk Quasar Elite South Shields www.quasarsouthshields.co.uk For all queries or if you would like to feature or advertise in NE Magazine email wayne.groves@neonlinemagazine.com Unless stated otherwise all competition entries should be sent to win@ neonlinemagazine.com Plus you can catch up with us online for news, events, blogs, competitions and more at www.neonlinemagazine.com Follow us on Facebook - www.facebook. com/pages/N-E-Online-Magazine join us on twitter @NEOnlineMag

CONTRIBUTORS Nicholas Dunn NJDunn Photography Peter Mann BSc Inside Mann Media & PR petermann78@hotmail.com LeeNemsPhotography www.ne-ms.co.uk SPONSORS Sergeant Clip www.sergeantclip.com Facebook - Sergeant Clip F.ound Digital Website: ino.digital

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THIS ISSUE P6 Colin Fortune P10 Star Wars The Last Jedi P14 O2 Academy Newcastle P22 The Good Souls P32 NJ Dunn & Trinity Photography Studio P42 Peter Mann in NYC P50 What’s On Newcastle Theatre Royal P54 Savour Magazine P60 Cineworld Film Round Up P76 Dangel Angello’s Toxic City P82 Gorilla Gainz Chris Grout 5

readers?

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Hi Colin, welcome to NE, can

you introduce yourself to our

Colin Fortune

Hi Colin, welcome to NE, can you introduce yourself to our readers?

Hello everyone or should I say G’day!

So I’m Colin Fortune, a new author in these parts although I am born and bred in South Shields. I have a gorgeous daughter who is my inspiration to follow my dreams and become a writer.

You have just launched your very first book, Attack of the Drop Bears, can you tell us a little bit about it?

My first offering to the world is a dark tail from Australia’s primeval Daintree Forest I wrote some time ago. You see when you travel through Australia the locals to like to play a joke on us poms. Like putting huntsman spinner in your beds or telling you you’re going to die in the outback.

For those who haven’t seen the book, how would you best describe it?

This was my inspiration to write Attack of the Drop Bears. The story is about a back packer who hires an alcoholic tour guide to take him through the Daintree.

The story describes an attack

by the deadly drop bear on an unfortunate tourist called Tom. Written in rhyme, it’s fun with a dark twist at the end of the story.

Where did you get the idea for this, especially with you being an Englishman and you are writing a story based in Australia?

Australia seamed to open a creative channel in my mind and I started writing poems and short stories. I guess it’s the wide open space and the billion stars at night. I’d defiantly like to return there some day.

What has been the hardest part of the whole process and why?

I self-published my book as I did not want any changes to the

story or the amazing illustrations I had commissioned by the very talented Stan Yak of Moscow.

Attack of the Drop Bears in my mind has always been an animation, but after seeing a comic my daughter had bought I decided to go down the comic book format. It seems to work and I’m pretty happy with the results.

Is there anything that you would do differently if you were to write another book?

When I do my next book early in 2018 I will definitely try a Kickstarter campaign. I would like to stay with Stan yak as the artist but if there is local talent out there I’d be pleased to

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Vladimir Furdik The Night King in Game Of Thrones is a fan

Australia and have been warmly received. One customer has offered to help get it out there and with the drop bear story already being part of Aussie sub culture I’m certain the book will be a success.

How can people get hold of a copy of the book?

Buying an Attack of the Drop Bears book is so easy to do. As mentioned you can pop into the Word and buy a copy from the shop there, or you can go to www.attackofthedropbears.com There is a PayPal cart and the price includes postage and packing.

I also have a Facebook page and a twitter account.

If you’re looking for a little stocking filler this Christmas and you’re not easily offended by scenes of animal attack, gore and a naughty word, then Attack of the Drop Bears would make a great gift for a loved one.

talk to them about their work.

Sometimes translating your vision to a Russian illustrator can be difficult and frustrating but the results have been worth the extra work.

You launched the book at The Word in South Shields with a book signing, how did that go?

I was lucky to launch Attack of

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the Drop Bears at the Word in South Shields . It’s now being sold in the shop there so if you passing call in and at least have a little look.

Have you had any feedback from any Australians? If so what do they think about the story?

Some copies of Attack of the Drop Bears have already gone to

Is there anything you would like to add?

Well I guess that’s all you need to know but one more thing.

If you go trekking in the Daintree Forest, listen, look up and stay alive. Because Drop bears are real, I saw them one night. They fell from the trees and they gave me a fright!

Merry Christmas to you all Thanks for taking the time to chat with us Colin and we wish you luck with your book

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It is nearly Christmas and that can mean only one thing‌STAR WARS!!!! That’s right folks, The Last Jedi is nearly here and as always NE have teamed up with A.R.C. and Cineworld Boldon to bring you the best Star Wars release night ever!!! If you have joined us in previous years you will know how amazing the atmosphere is! With hundreds of fans all eager to see the new instalment and then we throw in a mix of characters from the Star Wars universe wandering around for you to get your photo taken with during the night. Join the fun from 9:30pm onwards on Wednesday 13th December with the film being screened at

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midnight. Visit our FACEBOOK page HERE to see how you can WIN a pair of tickets, or you can book your tickets HERE

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NERG is the biggest retro gaming event in the North East, held at Gateshead Stadium over the course of 2 days, this event is as big as it gets for retro gamers or just the big kids re-living their youth playing the games they used to play, after all, they don’t make them like they used to. 2017 will be the fifth year of NERG and it will be a big one. With 100 video arcade machines, 35 pinball machines and 60 consoles and computers this really is an event you do not want to miss!.

The event is held over the weekend of 1st & 2nd of July.

Entrance is £15 per day or £25 for the full weekend. Children aged 5-13 years can also get in for only £10 on the Sunday.

All the machines are set to free play so once you pay the admission fee, it’s free gaming all day., so no need for those pockets full of change.

CLICK HERE TO TICKETS ONLINE.

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PURCHASE

or you can pay on the day if the event hasn’t sold out.

More details can be found at w w w.northeastretrogaming. com Machines are announced on a regular basis through the social feeds so make sure you keep checking to see what games will

be there, though with so many we are sure your favourites will be there.

CLICK HERE FOR FACEBOOK For Twitter - @NERGOfficial

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UK tour dates announced for March 2018 including London’s Alexandra Palace New album ‘Beautiful People Will Ruin Your Life’ due via Kobalt Music Recordings this February 9th 2018 Stream new track ‘Lemon To A Knife Fight’ HERE

ings, The Wombats have announced headline UK tour dates for March 2018, including London’s Alexandra Palace.

2017 has already seen the Liverpool-bred trio headline O2 Academy Brixton (which sold-out in under 24 hours), as well as two sold-out nights at the Sydney Opera House.

Having debuted as Annie Mac’s ‘Hottest Record’ on BBC Radio 1, and premiered online with The Fader, new single ‘Lemon to A Knife Fight’ is available to stream here.

You can pre-order the album HERE Having just detailed their fourth album ‘Beautiful People Will Ruin Your Life’ for a February 9th 2018 release via Kobalt Music Record-

2015’s ‘Glitterbug’ album, that debuted in the Top 5 UK Album Chart and Billboard 100, has received over 200 million digital streams, surpassing even the band’s euphoric hit singles ‘Let’s Dance To Joy Division’, ‘Moving To New York’ and ‘Kill The Director’, that established them as chart-quashing champions of the

noughties guitar pop explosion.

Set to headline North America this January, and join The PIxies and Weezer through the US in June and July, The Wombats will play the following headline UK shows through March 2018.

UK Headline Tour Dates *ticketmaster.co.uk March 13 - Belfast - Limelight2 14 - Dublin - Academy 16 - Cardiff - Great Hall 17 - Sheffield - O2 Academy* 19 - Aberdeen - Beach Ballroom 20 - Newcastle - O2 Academy* 21 - Nottingham - Rock City 23 - Birmingham - O2 Institute* 24 - Manchester - Academy 25 - Norwich - UEA 27 - London - Alexandra Palace 28 - Bristol - O2 Academy* 29 - Southampton - O2 Guildhall* CLICK HERE TO BUY TICKETS FOR THE O2 ACADEMY

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‘Always Ascending’ the new album from Franz Ferdinand, is being released by Domino on Friday the 9th of February.

Nothing short of a rebirth, the album’s 10 songs are a triumphant recasting of the group, bursting with fresh ideas and vigorous sonic experimentation.

You can listen to the first single, also titled ‘Always Ascending’ HERE and download or stream it HERE.

‘Always Ascending’ was recorded at RAK Studios, London and Motorbass in Paris, with the help of French producer extraordinaire Philippe Zdar (Cassius, Phoenix, The Beastie Boys), the mutual affection between band and producer seeping into every dazzling groove. ‘Always Ascending’ shows Franz Ferdinand broadening

their palate, as exuberant as it is euphoric, creating a sound that singer, Alex Kapranos, refers to as “simultaneously futuristic and naturalistic.”

From the city which jointly played host to the album’s conception, the band marked the announcement of ‘Always Ascending’ with a live streamed launch event at Paris’s Point Ephémère, during which the band previewed a selection of their new recordings.

‘Always Ascending’ is available to pre-order via iTunes and all DSPs now and will be available on CD, vinyl and ltd edition cassette via DomMart, with a special DomMart edition, featuring marbled blue and white vinyl, with a signed

print and tote bag. CLICK HERE TO GET YOUR COPY.

You can catch them live on the 16th February when they play the O2 Academy Newcastle as part of their UK Tour. CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR TICKETS. Franz Ferdinand are Alex Kapranos, Bob Hardy, Paul Thomson, Julian Corrie and Dino Bardot.

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IF THE ANSWER IS YES THEN CLICK HERE TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT

ino.digital

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Hi guys and welcome to NE, can you introduce yourselves to our readers?

Stephen Kenyon (SK) Hello Wayne, thanks for having us!

We are The Good Souls, a sixpiece band from South Tyneside putting our own stamp on Indie, Pop, Dance and Rock songs, plus so much more. We play many classic anthems, some more obvious than others, but remain true to ourselves by ensuring we play songs by artists we’re genuinely into.

So who does what in the band?

(SK) In no particular order, we have Marc Corby on Drums, Darren Tones on Keyboards, Keith Handson on Bass, Steven Longstaff on Guitar, Andrew Coiley on Lead Guitar and myself, Stephen Kenyon as Lead Vocalist.

You can imagine that a hell of a lot goes on behind the scenes too and we all play a part in keeping the band ticking along nicely.

When did you guys form and how did it all come about?

Marc Corby (MC) Stephen, Keith and Steven originally performed as a trio named ‘Headshow’ aided by backing tracks. In early 2009 they wanted to evolve so, having recruited myself, Darren and initially Chris Ellaby on bass,

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we started gigging as a live band in August 2009. Sadly, Chris couldn’t commit long term so I approached an old friend Andrew to take his place and thankfully he joined around Easter 2010 to complete the jigsaw.

The Good Souls, where did the name come from?

(SK) A song by Starsailor called ‘The Good Souls’ came on when myself, Keith and Steven were listening to Indie tunes at a drunken get together. We presented it to the new line up and we went with it. ‘TGS’ were born.

Are you a covers band or do you do your own material or is it a mixture of the two?

(SK) Definitely a covers band but we have jammed a few of our own songs without making them a finished piece.

(MC) Myself and Andrew have been in bands that have written, recorded and performed our own material before we joined TGS. The ‘Headshow lads’ have demoed a few tracks before The Good Souls and Keith has continued to work on and present a number of ideas that one day we might record or even play live.

You did take a break for a while, was there a reason behind that or was it a case of you had all had enough at the time?

(MC) It was mid 2012 when Stephen informed us of throat problems that eventually forced our hand into calling it a day just after the New Year. Health is far more important. We all remained good mates though and supported one another in

new ventures that occurred over the following 12 months or so.

What made you want to get back together and gig again?

(SK) After a long break, I was keen to get back into it but to not play as much as we did. We were all available and after a quick chat we decided to give it another go.

(MC) Yeah, it was decided in Wardles (Hebburn) on a night

out. We all agreed that it had to be the original line up for us to proceed and, after a little shake up where Andrew and Keith decided to swop instruments, we started practicing again in April 2014. The spark was instant but we wanted to come back different so grafted hard to ensure around 50% of the set was brand new material.

The support for our comeback gig was phenomenal as all 250 tickets were sold around 3 months beforehand. We knew it was going to be a class gig and, with the audience being with us from the start, we knew it was the right decision to come back.

As a band playing some great gigs, what would you say has been the stand out gig for you, the one that you remember the most?

Keith Handson (KH) The Amphitheatre, South Shields gig in June. It lashed it down all day then the sun came out just before the gig started‌ Andrew Coiley (AC) Aye, I’ve always wanted to play the

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Amphitheatre and we got the sunshine and the crowd that day.

Fantastic buzz.

(SK) So many to choose from having played so many festivals, functions, weddings, pubs etc…I prefer festivals as the atmosphere is amazing…hard to pick one.

Steven Longstaff (SL) For me, as well as the Amphitheatre gig, our first performance at the Nelson Beer Festival in 2010 was amazing thanks to the crowd reaction. I think a lot of strangers got into us after that one…

(MC) Personally, supporting Tom Hingley’s Kar-pets last Christmas was special as the Inspiral Carpets were one of the first bands I got into as a kid and the night was a huge success. Tom was very complimentary of us too which goes a long way. It’s always nice to bring people like that to South Shields and The Trimmers Arms was bouncing. It’s a fantastic place to play.

Darren Tones (DT) We’ve played some great venues including the Cluny in Newcastle and it’s always an honour when people in the public eye pick us to play their private parties as we have done on a few occasions now.

They still come and see us too

which is great.

Who inspires you musically?

(SK) We all have our own influences which makes for an interesting set list…we tend to play songs of all types and genres.

(MC) I’m sure any cover band will agree when I say that having so many band members with such a diverse mixture of influences can cause many ‘discussions’ on songs to learn and play live! I’m massively into The Stone Roses and The Charlatans but have been listening to Big Country and A Flock Of Seagulls loads over the past few years. We all make song suggestions but a reaction of absolute silence means it’s never gonna happen!

(SL) As school friend it’s fair to say bands such as James and Oasis have played a big part in mine and Stephen’s musical education.

(AC) I’m massively into Iggy Pop as well as Led Zeppelin, ACDC, Pink Floyd and The Smiths.

(MC) Take Keith and Darren in particular love Depeche Mode and Muse. Darren has arguably the largest album collection I’ve ever seen! You name it, he’s got it. There are so many more who inspire though - the list is endless. We’ve definitely taken more risks and become more dynamic since we’ve returned.

(DT) Ha ha, yeah, you can add Taking Heads, Stevie Wonder and The Beatles to that list too.

(KH) And Calvin Harris…and U2!

If you could play with anyone in the world, past or present who would it be and why?

(SK) Oasis as they got me into music.

(SL) Noel Gallagher / Oasis, James and REM. All influential and artists I’d love to perform with.

(MC) I’d support anyone who’d have us but I’d love to drum behind a supergroup consisting of Michael Hutchence, Jonny Marr, Mani and Stuart Adamson.

And Madonna. All favourites of mine for a number of reasons.

(AC) The Doors were way ahead of their time but as a guitarist, I’d love to be involved with John Squire and Slash.

(KH) Elvis, just to feel the connection with the audience.

What advice would you give to anyone wanting to start a band up or to get involved in the music scene?

(SK) Be patient. If it’s a band, make sure you all speak openly if you don’t agree with something, don’t do too much and make time to do other things.

(MC) Agreed. It’s a cliché but ‘All good things come to those who wait’ and slowly but surely, we’re getting the recognition and gigs we believe we’ve grafted hard for. Long may it continue.

(SL) Practise, practise, practise!

And try to be different.

(KH) Just do it. Play music that

Unknowns have become stars overnight.

you love and keep going.

What do you think of shows like The X-Factor or the Voice?

(SL) They have their place in the world but their omnipotent dominance in all forms of modern media is detrimental to other forms of music. Hopefully their shelf life is nearing an end.

(SK) I don’t watch them and it’s not really for bands like us…it’s more for pop stars…good luck to them.

(MC) I know people who have auditioned for The X Factor and their feedback suggests it is allegedly fixed. No surprise really.

I don’t watch either though. Give me a classic Top of the Pops from 1984 any day!

(KH) I don’t mind them.

Have you had any funny/weird fan incidents?

(MC) You see a lot of funny things when playing, but it’s normally good natured and there is nothing better than seeing people enjoying themselves and wanting to be involved in the show. One that stands out to us all though is when a member of the band was fortunate enough to have lasses in the crowd throwing their bras at him a few years back. One even squeezed hers on his head mid gig but fair play to him, he kept playing!

What’s your aims for the rest of 2017 and beyond as a band?

(SK) Continue to add new songs and keep challenging ourselves and improving. For next year and beyond, we want to play more festivals.

(MC) We’ve had another great year that ends with a gig with Noasis (Oasis Tribute) at a soldout Trimmers just before the New Year. We’ve just been asked to support Big Country next October at the O2 Academy in Newcastle which is a huge honour for us. I suppose growing our fan base and continuing to earn ‘bigger’ gigs is important too.

Having said that, we will always keep playing the pubs and clubs close to home as its imperative

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we continue to remind the locals that we’re still here!

Why should people come and listen to you?

(SK) We have a great mix of songs of all genres and we play a few songs other guitar bands would not try. We are a bit different.

(KH) We play music that we love and I think the crowd can feel that.

(MC) Ego-free, some extremely loyal people continue to come and see us so we must be doing something right. It’s a great feeling watching the audience

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sing and dance along with songs we’re playing as well as seeing members of other bands coming to support us. We’ve made some great mates from performing.

(SL) We play really good songs and take risks. There’s definitely something for everyone!

Where can people follow you and keep up to date with all gigs and events?

(SK) We’ve found that everything can be done easily via social media therefore Facebook is always the best option for up to date gigs, news, pictures and videos. We

have a habit of sharing pictures of the audience that have come our way from numerous sources to ensure people can see they’ve played a part in any event we’ve played. www.facebook.com/ thegoodsouls/ You can also follow us on Twitter: @The_GoodSouls as well as find a selection of videos on our You Tube channel here which is unsurprisingly the band name.

We all appreciate the fantastic support we’re getting. Thank you X

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It is nearly time for another Screen-Con, the original and biggest North East convention that is ran by fans for the fans, bringing a whole host of guests from your favourite TV shows and Films giving you the chance to meet and chat with them all up close and personal as well lots to see and do both on stage and around the venue.

Screen-Con 2017 will have Hammer Horror and Bond star Martine Beswick and original Star Wars Stormtrooper Laurie Goode taking centre stage appearing, but unfortunately Spencer Wilding is not able to attend the event as he is now going to be filming over in America, but he has posted several messages on the Screen-Con event page apologising to his fans and promising to make it up to them by appearing at a future event.

Good luck Spencer and we will see you at the next one.

Al and Vicki, the people behind Screen-Con, are busy sorting a replacement as I type this so watch

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this space for a big announcement coming your way soon.

NE are always a regular feature at all of the Screen-Con events doing everything from taking photos for the magazine to getting on stage to judge the Cosplay Competitions.

This year we will be there but this time we will have our very own stall where we will be holding the NE Charity Tombola. We have

already taken this to a few of the SciFair events last year and it is always a huge success raising money for some great local charities. We have several boxes of great prizes already with more prizes still to come, with everything from Funko Pop Vinyl Figures to comic books and even sweets. So make sure you come pay us a visit.

Screen-Con is a fun day out for all of the family, with your host Markus Percy bringing you all manner of fun and games along with all of your favourite characters all wondering about and happy to pose with you for those great facebook profile pictures, so you really do not want to miss out, get your tickets HERE.

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Hi Nicholas, welcome back to NE. Can you tell our readers a little bit about yourself?

Thanks for having me back.

I’m a photographer. I just graduated in July and now I’ve started my own photography business and taken over a studio in Gateshead.

I thought it was a great opportunity to go self-employed and that I would kick myself if I didn’t go for it.

You were last featured back in 2015 when you were still doing your Foundation Degree, how did you get on with that?

Well it seems like a lot longer than that! I managed to finish my degree and I thoroughly enjoyed the experience. My final project was a series of images of comparing cosplayers in and out of their costumes which I am now looking to reboot in my new studio and possibly publish as a book hopefully next year.

What advice would you give to anyone that is either doing or thinking about doing a Photography Foundation Degree?

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Make sure you have the passion!

There’s really no substitute for loving what you do. I never imagined I’d be a photographer. I took it as an alternative to Art at A-Level and ended up falling in love with it and 7 years later here I am. But even if you love photography, qualifications aren’t essential. It really benefited me because I was really interested in lighting and experimenting with new tech-

niques and it gave me the security to do that. If you love photography just take photos then look at them and try to be critical and push yourself to do better. I’d say that’s how a hobby or an interest really becomes a passion. When you stop doing it for fun but apply a critical eye and push yourself to be better.

You have just taken the big step of

taking over a photography studio, can you tell us a bit more about it and why you have taken that step?

Well after I graduated I wasn’t sure what to do. Then the opportunity came my way. The previous photographer was leaving and wanted someone to take over the studio.

He asked me if I’d be interested and I thought it was the perfect opportunity to push myself to try and become a professional photographer. As they say the rest is history!

What are your aims and goals for the Trinity Photography Studio now that it’s launched?

My main aim is to get the studio off the ground and become profitable so I can support myself and pay off my start up loans. I’d also like to get better equipment and

add some more decorations and furniture. Then if all goes well hopefully get a new car and ideally expand and upgrade the studio in a few years.

Will you be specialising in any type of photography at the studio?

What has been the hardest part about getting the Trinity Photography Studio deal sorted and set up for business?

So far it’s been quite easy and straight-forward. I managed to plan it out and do a little everyday so the business preparation has been quite relaxed. The hard part will be developing the business up now that it’s ready to go!

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other photographers and I am arranging some networking events and modelling and open days at the studio. I also offer Family and Child photography packages, modelling shoots and portfolios and professional and commercial headshots. I also cover events and weddings outside of the studio.

When you are not working hard what do you like to get up to in your spare time?

Reading, playing on my Playstation, going exploring in the car and planning cosplay shoots whenever I find the time to do them.

Tell us 3 random facts about yourself?

I’m pretty good at windsurfing when I find the time to do it.

I’m good at fencing and archery so if I get sent back in time I should be ok.

I write blogs about films, fantasy and sci-fi but I’m not very good at it.

You have been involved on loads of different shoots over the years, but what would you say has been your favourite shoot and why?

I don’t think I have a favourite shoot. I don’t even know how I tend to specialise in Portraiture but I’m experienced with most genres of portraiture and I am available for virtually all types of work for clients. That’s one of the great things about degrees; that they give you such a wide range of experience. One of my main personal interest is Cosplay though so I’d really like to expand my portfolio in that genre.

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What services will you be offering, as a photographer and a photography studio?

The studio is available for hire to

many I’ve done. My shoot at Five Guys with Emma and at Manors with Jordan spring to mind because I love the photos from those shoots. Or my Pandora shoot because I really pushed myself and it worked out at the end. But I could probably list 2 dozen other contenders so I really don’t know!

Do you have any offers or promotions going on at the moment with you just launching the studio?

I’m currently offering 25% off for December so get your bookings in quick! I also offer discounts for longer and repeating books and I’ll be announcing more next year.

Where can people keep up to date with the Trinity Photography Studio?

CLICK HERE FOR FACEBOOK CLICK HERE FOR TWITTER CLICK HERE FO INSTAGRAM

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How can people contact you to book a shoot in the studio or to hire you for their events?

Feel free to message me on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram. My photography email is njdunnphotographer@gmail.com and the studio email is trinityphotostudio@ gmail.com Is there anything you would like to add?

Not really you’ve been brilliant as always!

I’d like to say thanks to Jakku Cosplay for modelling for the cover shoot and to Rebecca Annan Photographer for helping me get where I am today!

Thanks for the great front cover and we look forwarding to working with you more in the future, if you can fit us in once the Trinity Photography Studio takes off

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NORTHERN PR PR SPECIALIST's SPECIALIST's NORTHERN NEW YORK YORK TRIP TRIP OF OF A A LIFETIME LIFETIME NEW

In October 2016 we were just wrapping up the second Entertainers match at Kingston Park where the Newcastle Legends had battled through an entertaining game with a Manchester Select in aid of the Alan Shearer Foundation.

As Head of Media with Newcastle Legends I was entrusted with the six month PR build-up, under the guidance of Andy Naylor and Steve Wraith, for the game and the events surrounding it, however, following its conclusion I had a feeling of what’s next, what could I do that would top such an experience.

I didn’t have to wait too long I guess.

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Having worked with numerous local acts such as The Longsands, Twister and Scream of Sirens whilst regularly supplying con-

tent for the local press and most recently, Sage Gateshead, as well Boxing News, Glasgow Eyes and other outlets further afield, I found myself suddenly thrust into a spotlight working alongside Vicky Hamilton, Bumblefoot, artist Lea Williams and a few others.

So how did that once a lifetime opportunity come about and what happened when the lad from a County Durham pit mining village, reached the big apple?

Well, six weeks after the Entertainers game I picked up a copy of the book, ‘Appetite for Dysfunction: A

Cautionary Tale’ by Vicky Hamilton; for those who don’t know she is an American music manager who has worked with and managed the likes of Motley Crue, Guns N’ Roses, Poison, Stryper, June Carter Cash whilst now looking after that of Damian Sage, Matt Adey, Ray Goren, Diana Meyer and Love Past Blue.

What transpired next can only be described as the snowball effect as, within six months I was conversing with Vicky on a daily basis, shared words which first led to my doing some PR work for her thenimpending, second edition book launch and her artists, to being invited on the trip of a lifetime to the book launch in New York.

“It was all down to the power of social media, a little bit of luck, and my receiving a copy of the first edition of Vicky’s incredible life story, ‘Appetite for Dysfunction,’ in November last year.

“I picked that up at the Bumblefoot gig I PR’d at Trillians in Newcastle, we exchanged a few messages and it kind of went from there.

“After interviewing Vicky several times, and her clients (Love Past Blue, Matt Adey and Damian Sage) over a five month period I was suddenly taken aback when she messaged asking if I’d come to New York and be by her side for the launch of the second edition.

with new found friends Vicky, Love Past Blue, Damian Sage and Matt Adey, as well as lovely people

“I just had to try and do it and it’s thanks to people like Steve Wraith and David McCaffrey that I was able to do so.”

It was certainly an incredible PR experience as I was side-by-side

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like Antonio and Sole (the hosts with the most), Dawn, Rachael, Billie and a few others for added measure, at The Cutting Room Showcase for the release; to the Mark Weiss Photography exhibition; to Sterling Sound recording label with the band and Vicky; and to the Guns N’ Roses Not In This Lifetime Tour 2017 gig at Madison Square Garden.

The book launch was an incredible occasion, one full of words of both the spoken and musical kind, Vicky producing extracts from her book, including the additional segments in the new release, the self-penned poem, I’m A Thunderstorm with words that have never been truer about the master manager.

“The whole experience was just amazing and I honestly didn’t want to come home.

“Everyone in the States have become friends for life and my, our hosts, Antonio and Sole Reyes, were fantastic.

“Love Past Blue have become like family to me, the band is going places and I’m honoured to be

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part of the ride and both they, Damian, and Matt, gave fantastic performances at the Showcase.

“Getting the chance to see Guns N’ Roses live was just the icing

and I know that, overall, the trip has opened doors for me and I’ll continue doing what I can for them.”

So, those six months in the latter stages of the year couldn’t really have gone any better – well a little more publicity wouldn’t have gone amiss but I was happy with the hand that was dealt and New York showed that, if you work hard enough for something, then you can achieve it.

I learnt a lot from that little trip, friendship counted for a lot as does ones work ethic.

Vicky opened my eyes to the bigger picture and I’m pleased that I can continue working with her and her artists with options for return visits, not just to New York, in the pipeline moving forward.

Updates on Peter’s work and progression can be found via Peter Mann – Media & PR - https://

www.facebook.com/petermannmedia (Facebook), @petermannwriter https://twitter.com/petermannwriter (Twitter), or www. insidemann.co.uk (website) whilst you can purchase signed copies of Vicky Hamilton’s ‘Appetite for Dysfunction’ from www.vickyhamilton.com.

In addition Peter is scheduled to release two music books before the end of the ‘The Interviews – Volume One: Music’ and ‘the Trip of a Lifetime’ will be promoted across his social media, early indications have shown they will sell well (and I’ve not even promoted it yet).

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THEATRE ROYAL VOTED

NO PAWS IN PANTO FUN AS THEATRE ROYAL ANNOUNCES GOLDILOCKS AND THE THREE BEARS FOR 18/19 The doors have only just opened for 2017/8’s record-breaking panto Peter Pan but Newcastle Theatre Royal has announced a rip-roaring show for 2018/9 – Goldilocks and The Three Bears, the pantomime that’s just right!

A rollicking adventure is once again in store for seasonal favourites Clive, Danny and Dame Chris, the stars of next year’s big top family panto extravaganza. In Goldilocks and the Three Bears audiences will go straight into the fun of the fair as Danny The Clown, Ringmaster Clive Webb and Dame Rita attempt to save their Big Top from disaster. Expect magic, music, mayhem and plenty of porridge!

Produced by Qdos Entertainment, the world’s biggest pantomime producer, Goldilocks and the Three Bears – the Pantomime that’s just right! promises everything that Theatre Royal audiences have come to expect, and more.

Spellbinding choreography, glittering sets, breath-taking special effects and a wonderful musical score form the backdrop to a tale full of adventure, hilarious slapstick and new for this year – a host of jaw-dropping circus acts. Will Danny win the hand of the beautiful Goldilocks? It might just take three amazing bears to join the circus and save the day.

Theatre Royal pantomimes are widely thought to be among the best in the UK, due to the winning combination of father and son team Clive and Danny - for whom Goldilocks will mark their fourteenth consecutive Theatre Royal

panto appearance – and their West End production quality. This combination is brought together

by Newcastle’s own Michael Harrison, who co-writes, produces and directs the show.

Theatre Royal Chief Executive Philip Bernays said: “It’s exciting to be able to whet our audience’s appetite for next year’s show before we even open this one. We tend to find that people race from the auditorium to the box office to snap up their seats for the following year so we need to be ready!

He added: “This year’s production of Peter Pan promises to be another spectacular show and has broken a new record with a staggering 80,000 tickets sold prior to opening. We are so very proud of our pantomimes, but never wish to rest on our laurels. This is a competitive industry and we need to make sure that we are at the top of our game every single year.

With Goldilocks and the Three Bears we have a show that profiles Clive and Danny’s incredible circus skills to an extent of no panto before. It’s going to be sublimely entertaining.

“It’s thanks to a superb cast, incredible staging, expert behindthe-scenes team and the talent of top West End producer Michael Harrison that we can keep delivering what is considered not only the biggest panto in the region but one of the best festive spectaculars anywhere in the country.”

Goldilocks, the pantomime that’s just right! plays Tue 27 Nov 2018 – Sun 20 Jan 2019 and tickets go on sale TODAY (Tue 21 Nov) for Friends of the Theatre Royal.

Advantage Members, Groups and Schools can book from Thu 23 Nov and the general public from Tue 28 Nov. Peter Pan – the High Flying Pantomime Adventure plays at Newcastle Theatre Royal Tues 28 Nov ‘17 til Sun 21 Jan ‘18.

Tickets for both pantos are from £13 and can be purchased from the Theatre Royal Box Office on 08448 11 21 21 (Calls cost 7ppm plus your phone company’s access charge) or book online at www. theatreroyal.co.uk To become a Friend of the Theatre Royal and snaffle the best seats, CLICK HERE

TV CAST TO STAR IN BENIDORM LIVE STAGE SHOW Producers have revealed that Benidorm Live, the new stage show based on the hit ITV comedy premiering at Newcastle Theatre Royal next year, will star six of the original TV cast .

Set to bring a heady dose of

Spanish sunshine and smiles to Newcastle audiences, the first ever stage version of Derren Litten’s hit ITV comedy Benidorm Live opens on Friday 7 September prior to a major national tour.

It is now confirmed that six members of the TV cast, all much loved stars from the infamous Solana Hotel, will perform in the hotly anticipated new show. Swapping sangria for the stage after a quick spruce at the Blow ‘n’ Go! will be everyone’s favourites Jake Canuso (Lothario barman Mateo), Janine Duvitski (middle aged swinger Jacqueline), Adam Gillen (holidaying teenager Liam), Sherrie Hewson (Solana manageress Joyce Temple-Savage), Shelley Longworth (loud mouthed lassie Sam), and Tony Maudsley (flamboyantly camp hairdresser Kenneth).

Litten has written a new set of Alicante escapades for the debut stage production of the hugely popular show. On making its transfer, writer Derren Litten said:

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“I’ve loved ten years of writing my TV show Benidorm but despite a successful writing career I’m first and foremost a performer so have always been secretly frustrated I couldn’t hear the audience’s laughter. This national tour of Benidorm Live will not only make a long lasting dream come true but will also mean I no longer have to stand in strangers gardens listening at their windows at 9 o’clock on cold winter evenings.”

ITV’s smash-hit comedy celebrates a decade of all-inclusive hilarity, having followed the ensemble cast of holiday makers and staff for nine series since it first broadcast in 2007. Season 10 is due to broadcast early 2018.

Critically acclaimed, Benidorm has received two National Television Awards a TV Quick Award and nominations at the British Comedy Awards and BAFTAs. After leaving school in Hull in the late 1980’s Derren Litten spent a year working as a professional magician whilst auditioning for drama schools. He won a place on the 3 year acting course at the prestigious Central School of Speech and Drama where he met fellow student Catherine Tate. After 10 years of working as an actor, Derren was asked by Catherine to write for her newly commissioned TV sketch show, The Catherine Tate Show; in which he also appeared in many of the sketches.

After co-writing and appearing in two series and a Christmas Special, Derren was given a script commission by legendary comedy producer Geoffrey Perkins, “just write anything you want as long as it’s funny” he said; that show turned out to be ITV’s BAFTA nominated hit comedy Benidorm.

Derren’s hobbies include drinking and karaoke, usually in that order.

He splits his time equally between homes in London and Spain.

nees on Thu 2pm and Sat 2.30pm.

Tickets are from £16.50 and can be purchased from the Theatre Royal Box Office on 08448 11 21

21 (Calls cost 7ppm plus your phone company’s access charge) or book online at www.theatreroyal.co.uk

The show will be produced for the stage by Newcastle’s own Michael Harrison and David Ian. Other UK Tour dates to be announced.

Benidorm Live premieres at Newcastle Theatre Royal on Fri 7 Sep 2018 and runs until Sat 15 Sep, playing evenings at 7.30pm, mati-

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Do you love anything food related? Are you a real foodie? If the answer is yes then we’re just going to drop this right here.

The WINTER EDITION has landed and we find out whats inside this issue from Savour Editor Georga Spottiswood.

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ON THE COVER: Seaham Hall’s cocktail menu is on fire.

Photograph by Sean Elliott Photography.

IN THIS ISSUE ...

Are you GAME to eat GAME? We investigate the game industry and talk to Lord James Percy and his head gamekeeper of the Linhope Estate, Northumberland, as well as game dealers and the chef patrons of Bistro Forty Six - Check in here and The Fox Hole.

Try recipes such as pheasant tacos, game terrine, venison loin and grouse with toasted oats from The Tankerville Arms Langley Castle Hotel The Devonshire Arms Hotel, Skipton, Yorkshire, UK at BestLoved.com Michel Roux Jr. visits the North East and we chat to the king of cuisine over a bowl of chips!

Legendary chef Sat Bains says he’s “still looking for something that will blow people away.”

The Ivy Restaurant has opened its doors in Yorkshire with The Ivy Harrogate and The Ivy York - St. Helen’s Square - and we get the menu low down from its two head

chefs.

There’s DRAM-tastic news about Durham Distillery which is set to launch the region’s first whisky in 2018.

Get quaffing with our festive cock-

tail guide, tuck into tasty winter warmers, festive flavours and so much more with ISSUE 6.

CLICK HERE TO GET YOUR COPY DELIVERED DIRECTLY TO YOUR DOOR

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We have double the fun now as we have teamed up with Cineworld Boldon and the new Cineworld Dalton Park to give you a quick run down on a few films that are coming soon and really have got us excited.

Plus make sure you check out their Facebook page to keep up to date with their daily competitions and updates. Boldon and Dalton Park

The Man Who Invented Christmas Release date: 1 December 2017 Starring Dan Stevens (Downton Abbey, Beauty and the Beast) as Charles Dickens, The Man Who Invented Christmas tells the true story of how the iconic author came to write the seminal yuletide novel A Christmas Carol in only six weeks. Set in

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1840s London, Dickens had been struggling to come up with fresh ideas after the failure of his last three works. However, when he’s inspired by the vision of a story that would fire the hearts of humanity, he set out to write and self-publish a book that would reignite his career - in just six weeks. As the likes of Ebenezer Scrooge (played

by Academy Award-winner Christopher Plummer) and The Ghosts of Christmases Past,

Present and Future start coming to life in his head, Dickens created a masterpiece that gave birth to the Christmas we know and love today.

Cast: Dan Stevens, Christopher Plummer, Jonathan Pryce Director: Bharat Nalluri CLICK HERE TO WATCH THE TRAILER

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Ferdinand Release date: 22 December 2017 FERDINAND tells the story of a giant bull with a big heart. After being mistaken for a dangerous beast, he is captured and torn from his home. Determined to return to his family, he rallies a misfit team on the ultimate adventure. Set in Spain, Ferdinand proves you

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can’t judge a bull by its cover.

From Blue Sky Studios and Carlos Saldanha, the director of “Rio” and inspired by the beloved book “The Story of Ferdinand” by Munro Leaf and Robert Lawson, “Ferdinand” is a heartwarming animated comedy adventure with an all-star cast that includes John Cena, Kate McKinnon, Gina Rodriguez, Anthony Anderson and many more.

Cast: John Cena, Kate McKinnon, Gina Rodriguez, Daveed Diggs, Gabriel Iglesias, Bobby Canavale, David Tennant, Anthony Anderson, Flula Borg, Sally Phillips, Boris Kodjoe, Jerrod Carmichael, Raul Esparza, Karla Martinez, Miguel Angel Silvestre Director: Carlos Saldanha, Cathy Malkasian CLICK HERE TO WATCH THE TRAILER

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12 Strong Release date: 26 January 2018 In ‘12 Strong’ a U.S. Special Forces team, led by their new Captain, Mitch Nelson (Hemsworth), is sent into Afghanistan for an extremely dangerous mission. There, in the rugged mountains, they must convince a Northern

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Alliance General to join forces with them to fight their common adversary: the Taliban and their Al Qaeda allies. In addition to overcoming mutual distrust and a vast cultural divide, the team —accustomed to state-of-the-art warfare— must adopt the rudimentary tactics of the Afghani horse soldiers, combining ancient strategies of cavalry

warfare with twenty-firstcentury aerial bombardment technology to perform a seemingly impossible feat.

Cast: Chris Hemsworth, Michael Shannon, Michael Peña, Elsa Pataky Director: Nicolai Fuglsig CLICK HERE TO WATCH THE TRAILER

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Black Panther Release date: 12 February 2018 Marvel Studios’ Black Panther follows T’Challa who, after the death of his father, the King of Wakanda, returns home to the isolated, technologically advanced African nation to succeed to the throne and take his rightful place as king. But

when a powerful old enemy reappears, T’Challa’s mettle as king-and Black Panther-is tested when he is drawn into a formidable conflict that puts the fate of Wakanda and the entire world at risk.

Faced with treachery and danger, the young king must rally his allies and release the full power of Black Panther to defeat his foes and secure the safety of his people and their way of life.

Cast: Chadwick Boseman, Michael B. Jordan, Lupita Nyong’o, Danai Gurira, Martin Freeman, Daniel Kaluuya, Letitia Wright, Winston Duke, Angela Bassett, Forest Whitaker, Andy Serkis Director: Ryan Coogler CLICK HERE TO WATCH THE TRAILER

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Tomb Raider Release date: 16 March 2018 Lara Croft is the fiercely independent daughter of an eccentric adventurer who vanished when she was scarcely a teen. Now a young woman of 21 without any real focus or purpose, Lara navigates the chaotic streets of trendy East London as a bike courier, barely making the rent, and takes college courses, rarely making it to class. Determined to forge her own path, she refuses to take the reins of her

father’s global empire just as staunchly as she rejects the idea that he’s truly gone.

Advised to face the facts and move forward after seven years without him, even Lara can’t understand what drives her to finally solve the puzzle of his mysterious death. Leaving everything she knows behind, Lara goes in search of her dad’s lastknown destination: a fabled tomb on a mythical island that might be somewhere off the coast of Japan. But her mission will not be an easy one; just reaching the island will be extremely treacherous. Suddenly, the

stakes couldn’t be higher for Lara, who—against the odds and armed with only her sharp mind, blind faith and inherently stubborn spirit— must learn to push herself beyond her limits as she journeys into the unknown.

If she survives this perilous adventure, it could be the making of her, earning her the name tomb raider.

Cast: Alicia Vikander, Dominic West, Walton Goggins, Daniel Wu, Kristin Scott Thomas Director: Roar Uthaug CLICK HERE TO WATCH THE TRAILER

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Unlimited Card Love Cinema. Join the club - £16.90 a month. You will receive...

Preferential Discounts Unlimited members get 10% off all food and drink bought in-cinema at any time of day, every day!* Plus, you’ll also receive discounts for all nonfilm screenings such as Live Opera in HD, Live National Theatre, Live sport in 3D and live gigs etc. (All discounts subject to terms)

Shopping Unlimited members benefit from exclusive deals set up by their local cinema*. These offers vary from cinema to cinema, but are a great way to save pennies. (All deals are subject to terms) *Until further notice Watch as many films as you like Are you mad about movies?

Feed your fascination by watching as many films as you like at Cineworld every month from just £16.90.

There’s literally no limit to the number of times you can visit!

Apply for your card now at www.unlimitedcineworld. com/uk/pages/apply. aspx?step=1 using promo code RAF-63KG-29XM-00SB31WU.

Get access to Exclusive advance screenings As an Unlimited member, you can be among the first to see great movies at our special screenings. Just keep an eye on our Unlimited newsletter for your invitation.

Discounted Meals &

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STEPNEY Tyres

new premises Unit 4, maurice road ind est Newcastle upon Tyne, Ne28 6by

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Walkers amidst a Toxic City

In a post-apocalyptic world, the future of Val, the heroine from the imagination of Teesside writer Dangel Angello, comes to life in the first of her two volume, Toxic City masterpiece.

Dangel, the pen-name of the beautiful Charlotte Teece, resides on the north coast in Redcar and has been writing since her early teens, Charlotte that is, not Val, creating inspirations from within her own post-apocalyptic mind.

sci-fi/fantasy/whatever genre masterpiece, ‘Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy.’

“Val (Toxic City’s main character) is a 14-year-old, mixed-race child wound up in post-apocalyptic London; a one-off, gritty, abused slave,” began Charlotte.

“The Walkers tale tells of her life struggling through the post-

apocalyptic survival whilst the follow-up goes into greater detail of her life.

“However, with implications on several books in the full series, Toxic City can actually be standalone novels as well and this is the first of the Origins story.”

Yes,

it’s

as

complex

and

Stating her inspiration from Zebediah, mass ends of the world scenarios, as well as not being able find anything of a similar ilk on bookstore shelves, she is a book away from a supernova – Charlotte and Val, with Toxic City set for print this Christmas after being some seven years in the making.

Toxic City’s first offering ‘Walkers in the Mist’ is, admittedly, have a loose basis on the classic

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liked Angello from the Romanian poetry I used to read – it’s that simple really.”

Alongside David & Kelly McCaffrey at publishers, Britain’s Next Bestseller, Charlotte found the perfect mix with the Teesside duo, professional and friends for added measure, it’s they who gave Charlotte, or Dangel, the belief to go forward with Toxic City and put it into the public eye.

“It’s all down to them, they contacted me first,” continued Charlotte.

“David’s books are fantastic and last Christmas he dropped the bombshell that he’d bought the rights to BNBS and was interested in publishing my books.

“I never in a million years thought I would be published.”

PETER MANN – MEDIA & PR htt p s : / / w w w.fa c e b o o k . co m / petermannmedia/ BNBS – https://www.facebook. com/BNBSbooks/ TOXIC CITY - https://www. facebook.com/ToxicCitySeries/

complicated as Charlotte’s wondrous mind is.

“Walkers are what everyone who has survived wants to be and are ‘the doers in life,’ although there are very few people who stay the course and those who, they stay the course.

“Val is joined by Jim, a Father, two friends in the military, and a prostitute friend so I’ve not really embellished with a big character list in these books due to Val being much a loner and a very isolated individual.”

With mirrored parts of Charlotte’s own persona shining through in this new series, Val can easily be an alter-ego of the writer if you look deeply enough, it’s her pen-name which also strikes a differing chord.

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Dangel Angello: “Oh, it comes from when I was really young,”

Charlotte explained.

“It’s from an old gameshow that I used to watch and a name from that always stuck with me (Dangel) whilst I’ve always

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Chris Grout Chris Grout is the latest signing to the Gorilla Gainz Urban Sport team alongside BAMMA fighter Colin “The Freakshow” Fletcher.

Chris is tipped for big things in the world of Boxing after already winning some amateur titles and 2018 will see him getting his pro card so we thought now would be the perfect time to find out more about him in his own words.

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I was born in 1990, born a fighter not taught how to fight. I always had that sting in me from a very young age, always getting myself in trouble, it was never my fault but always punished for it. I was brought up from a good family that tried everything to tame me but I never changed from the angriest kid in the world all the way through school. I dropped football that I was s**t at in anyways and started full contact

rugby, at least that way I was putting my aggression into a half contact sport. I just loved getting into rolls and scrums, anything you could be aggressive in I loved. My temper tamed for a short while then started again and before you know it I was back to the same little s**t as before. My dad came up with

the idea to try a fighting sport, so I did. I started boxing at Perth Green Amateur Boxing Club.

Here I got discipline drilled into me from the moment I stepped in the hall. From then on I grew up fast and learned how to respect people and turned the total opposite way to the way I was going on! I honestly think that if I didn’t fall in love with boxing, getting screamed at and beasted in the gym, then I would be in jail for life or dead.

I then went onto getting carded and started fighting, I lost my first fight which hurt my heart more than my head, but I never ever ever quit or ever use the easy option in life. I got straight back into the gym the very next day chasing dreams! 6am Tues & Thurs before school running and interval training with an old

mate of mine and coach Steve Lamb down the beach sipping hot orange after to open airways , unreal! Mon, Wed and Fri nights after school I was training in the gym , some days we went to other gyms to spar. I Won 8 fights off the belt, entered the ABA’s and got all the way to the final at Everton Park Liverpool where I won the 4 rounds points but got caught with 2 stupid shots that stopped the fight.

I still got England select even though I got silver. I then went onto boxing only 2/3 fights a year for years after getting win, win, loss, win, win, loss, not taking it serious as I should’ve as work f****d me about sending me all over. I trained in gyms all over the shop, St. Paul’s Hull, Grimsby town, Grimsby docks, Aberdeen, Staythorpe, Norwich, Invergordon, Southampton, Milton Keynes - even Perth Australia. I have always been lucky with work with a trade but I always ask myself, if all I had was boxing how Far could I have taken the amateur career?

I had 2 years out got fat as f**k and unfit. Till one day my mate offered me to go to a semi pro unlicensed show where I made the pissed decision to make a comeback. All the lads laughed their heads off as they thought I was finished. I said “I will dominate the unlicensed scene and get all South Shields,

Sunderland and Newcastle heavyweight belts in 2 years”.

Everyone tortured me for it and said I was full of s**t.

18month later, 8 fights, 8 wins, 6 stoppages, I did it. Simple as that! If you put your mind to anything, nothing is impossible!

HOW MUCH DO YOU WANT IT? That’s the big question!

getting approached by people I never recognised, asking me how my boxing was going etc etc and wishing me luck. Buzzing with this I wanted to step it up a level and decided to give a bit back to Shields by getting Shields back on the map by making it pro and being proud of where I am from !!! Sunny South Shields.

After all this I got the feel for it and loved the fame again. I wasn’t walking down King Street in South Shields and getting stopped off sessioners anymore asking where am going partying at the weekend... NO! I was now

I would like to thank everyone who’s helping me along my journey of the pro game all my sponsors who have faith in me signing me up before I even have my first fight. Having meetings with Gorilla Gains, I’m not just excited to see how I get on in the game I am buzzing for GG to take off and can’t wait to see what’s in the pipeline for next year!

Watch this space, Peace out

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Does Your Business Need Fire Curtains?

Fire safety has been brought to the fore this year. It has always been important, but business owners and landlords are now taking it a lot more seriously.

Beyond the risk to life, there is also a huge risk to property that can completely ruin a business – even if the business is well insured.

There are lots of ways to protect your workplace from fires; fire curtains are one of the lesserknown fire-safety features, yet they are extremely effective, so this brief article looks at how fire curtains work and the kinds of business that could benefit from installing them.

High-quality fire curtains have

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saved many lives by impeding the spread of fire. They are usually made from extremely flame-retardant materials that can prevent the spread of fire for at least two hours. They are installed close to areas that have a higher-than-normal risk of fire, such as factories, shops with a lot of flammable fuel (such as books or clothes), and any workplace with a lot of electrical equipment.

If you are unsure whether or not your business needs fire curtains, ask yourself if there are sources of ignition (electricity, heat, naked flames) and if there is enough fuel to help the fire spread quickly.

Fire curtains are fitted to an automatic system that

activates when local firewarning systems are set off.

Once activated, fire curtains can either close immediately or be set on a delayed timer. You can integrate this function into your workplace’s current automated fire alarm system.

If you want to go a step beyond fire curtains, you can invest in fire shutters, which have a soldered link design that melts when exposed to a fire, making an extremely fire-resistant barrier.

Local Sunderland-based company K & D Systems (www. kanddsystems.com) is a fire curtain specialist with a 3-day turnaround on fire curtain installations and a proven track record. Contact their Newcastle branch on 0191 204 9070 if you’d like to learn more.

IF THE ANSWER IS YES THEN CLICK HERE TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT

ino.digital

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ROCK LEGENDS EXTREME RETURN TO THE UK IN DECEMBER. DAN REED NETWORK TO PERFORM AS SPECIAL GUESTS AT ALL SHOWS TICKETS ON SALE NOW FROM LIVENATION.CO.UK & TICKETMASTER.CO.UK Extreme have announced that they will be returning to the UK for a full tour. Starting at Newcastle’s O2 Academy on the 13th December the band will then head out across the nation, playing to 6 different cities before closing the tour with a show at London’s O2 Academy Brixton on the 20th De-

cember. Talking about the newly announced dates, Guitar sensation Nuno Bettencourt had the following to say “The UK has always embraced Extreme and has really understood what we were about from the beginning. We share a mutual appreciation and can’t wait to come back in December. This is going to be a special tour for us”.

Grammy-nominated Extreme, one of the most successful rock acts of the late 1980s and 1990s, have sold over 10 million albums worldwide.

They have released six studio albums, plus a greatest hits set and 2 live DVDs since their formation in 1985. The band had initially

described their music as ‘Funky Metal’, but it would evolve much more in the mid-90s by blending classic rock influences with postgrunge and alternative rock.

Extreme’s popularity is fuelled by guitar virtuoso Nuno Bettencourt’s signature style, Gary Cherone’s resonant vocals and socially conscious lyrics, Pat Badger’s rock solid bass, and the hard hitting Kevin Figueiredo on drums. Their unwavering songcraft and diverse musical approaches have earned the band multi-platinum albums with chart topping hits and soldout tours all over the globe.

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When you think of Bare Knuckle Boxing I’m sure most people will think of travellers fighting in car parks or some of the call out videos, both of which you often see popping up on youtube and facebook. What people don’t realise is that over the last few years a company called UBBAD have been working tirelessly behind the scenes to bring BKB out of the shadows and into the mainstream.

fight defeating Cowboys Michael who was undefeated in 200 BKB fights. There have been a few occasions where Terrill was due to face current UBBAD Champion Michael “The Real Deal” Ferry on other promotions but it has yet to happen, hopefully now that they are both signed to UBBAD there’s nowhere to hide and this eagerly awaited fight won’t be far away. It will be a fan favourite fight when it happens seeing as Ferry’s fans think there is no competition left for him to face, whilst Terril’s fans think Ferry is ducking Terril because he knows that he will lose his title and has been avoiding the hard fights to keep it. With this kind of talk there can only be one outcome and that is for the fight to take place, which will be great news for neutral BKB fans.

They already have some top level fighters on their books, but in recent months they really have pulled out all of the stops with signings like North East fighter Michael Terrill, who is a Champion Kickboxer and who this year won his first ever Bare Knuckle

Another of the big name signing is former UFC fighter Melvin Guillard who is a well-known striker and a massive household name to be added to the UBBAD roster.

He will be taking on the winner of the upcoming Jimmy Sweeney and Dann Henry-Welsh fight. Sweeney

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