EST. 1936
Redbrick Friday 7th October 2011 | Volume 76 | Issue 1394 | redbrickpaper.co.uk
Rihanna and raunchiness in the music industry See Comment and Features, p.7
Vice-President suspended from Guild and University James Brilliant News Editor
court, with his hearing instead conducted via video link in order to minimise the risk of aggravating the protest. In the days following his arrest and subsequent incarceration, a wide debate amongst students regarding the right to protest and free speech erupted, with Bauer’s later release seen as a symbolic victory amongst those who have accused the criminal justice system of being disproportionately harsh. On Sunday the 25th of September an open letter signed by a number of prominent academics and public figures – including former MP Clare Short and former Children’s Laureate Michael Rosen – appeared on the Guardian’s website calling for Bauer’s release and “the right to hang our banners in peaceful protest whenever and wherever we choose.” When Bauer subsequently returned to the Guild the next morning to resume his sabbatical officer duties, he was handed a letter informing him of his immediate suspension by Guild President Mark Harrop. Under the terms of his suspension Bauer is suspended from using theP8Guild of Students premises, whilst his official VPE blog has been removed from the Guild of Students website; he will however continue to be remunerated. Guild of Students President Mark Harrop said: “The Guild is a legal organisation and we can’t comment on an on-going investigation or a police matter. As hard as it is we can’t comment on his granting of bail or an internal Guild investigation. The will be an investigating officer…but in line with employment law, all investigations are done without prejudice.” An online petition calling for his reinstatement had by that Wednesday evening gained over 400 signatures.
The Guild of Students has suspended Edward Bauer in his role as a Sabbatical Officer, followed by his suspension as a student from the University of Birmingham. Bauer had been arrested on Friday 16th September with two other students after scaling a bridge linking the International Convention Centre and Hyatt Hotel on Broad Street before unfurling a banner reading “Traitors Not Welcome – Hate Clegg Love NCAFC (National Campaign Against Fees and Cuts)”. As a result of the banner debris reportedly fell onto the road below endangering road users and pedestrians. The men, charged with causing danger to road traffic users, were subsequently held in custody that weekend with all three pleading not guilty to the charges the following Monday. Whilst the other two men were bailed on the condition they did not enter Birmingham city centre until their trial, Bauer was remanded in custody. Bauer was later released on bail on September 26th, ten days after his arrest. Outside Birmingham Magistrates Court, where his bail hearing was taking place, approximately eighty of Bauer’s supporters gathered to peacefully protest his innocence, including the University and College Union, Birmingham against the Cuts, Birmingham Trades Council and Dudley Green Party. The protestors at one point attempted to enter the main court building via the front entrance, prompting court security and half a dozen uniformed police officers to seal the entrance of the court and usher the protestors away the front steps, although the mood remained calm and co-operative. It did later emerge that Bauer himself had not been present at Continued on page 4. UPDATED GUILD STATEMENT ON PAGE 4
Bauer's autumn term to date Arrested at protest for causing danger to road users Suspended from Guild Suspended as student from the University of Birmingham Edd Bauer during his campaign for VPE
Glen Moutrie
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redbrickpaper.co.uk
Redbrick Editorial Editor Glen Moutrie Deputy Editors Victoria Bull James Phillips Online Editor Chris Hutchinson Art Director Beth Richardson Photography Editors Freddie Herzog Millie Guy chiefphotographer@redbrickonline.co.uk Technical Directors Jeremy Levett Dan Lesser News Editors Anna Hughes James Brilliant Kerrina Gray news@redbrickonline.co.uk Online News Editor Freddie Herzog Features Editors Ali Hendy Amanda Callaghan features@redbrickonline.co.uk Online Features Editor Owen Earwicker Film Editors Genevieve Taylor Isidore Sanders film@redbrickonline.co.uk Arts & Culture Editors Lexie Wilson Alexander Blanchard arts@redbrickonline.co.uk Music Editors Will Franklin Tamara Roper music@redbrickonline.co.uk Television Editor Charlotte Lytton tv@redbrickonline.co.uk
Life&Style Editors Sophie Cowling Lara Edwards lifestyle@redbrickonline.co.uk Food Editors James Morrison Jordan Warner food@redbrickonline.co.uk Travel Editors Emily Booth Louise Spratt travel@redbrickonline.co.uk Sport Editors Sam Price Joseph Audley sport@redbrickonline.co.uk
News feed GUILD
UNIVERSITY
BRADFORD
BURN FM set for relaunch
Med student hit by car full of robbers
City centre hit by blaze
The University of Birmingham student radio station BURN FM is set to relaunch this Saturday at 10am, broadcasting seven days a week between 10am and 10pm. To listen live or for more information on shows, check out burnfm.com.
dent has been ploughed down by a car in Harborne. Chris Holmes, 23, suffered a shattered knee before being beaten by the gang and robbed of his wallet and mobile phone. More on this story online.
'Foxy Knoxy' cleared of murder
Carnival Rag on around the world
Library hours amended
After four years of imprisonent in Italy, Amanda Knox has been acquitted over the murder of British student Meredith Kercher in 2007. Knox has now returned to the USA where she is reportedly considering
Carnival RAG is set to launch a new set of international trek events, including treks to Mt. Killimanjaro and Machu Pichu, a London to Paris cycle ride and a European car rally event. All money collected goes to a range of local charities.
The University of Birmingham library has now revised and extended its opening hours for the 2011-2012 academic year. The library is now open from 8am – 12 pm Monday to Friday, and 8am – 8pm at weekends.
TECHNOLOGY
FILM
HEALTH
BRITAIN
Student Finance warning
Scorsese Beatles
Record October temperatures
Football TV rights won by pub
Student Finance has reiterated its warning to students across the UK over online scams. Phishing e-mails often ask stucial details, especially during the main payment instalment dates during September, January and April.
The much anticipated Martin Scorsese documentary on the late Beatle, George Harrison, has been released. Other band members Sir Paul McCartney, Yoko Ono and Ringo Starr all attended the premiere in at the British Film Industry in London this week.
The record for the highest temperature in October has been broken with a temperature of 29.9C (85.5F) in Gravesend, Kent. On the 1st October, when the record was set, temperatures in England were higher than those in Los Angeles and Barcelona.
Karen Murphy, a pub landlady, has successfully won the latest stage of her battle to show Premier League games using a foreign decoder. The judgement by the European Court of Justice may change the relationship between the Premier League and Sky Sports.
Senior Editorial Assistant Kate Selvaratnam
Proofreaders Lucy Haffenden Anna Lumsden Amy Saul Sian Stanfield
TECHNOLOGY For meeting times and available positions visit www.redbrickpaper.co.uk/join
Designed and typeset by Redbrick. Copyright (C) Redbrick 2011 Redbrick strives to uphold the NUJ Code of Conduct. The views expressed in Redbrick do not necessarily reflect those of the editors, the Guild or the publishers. If you find an error of fact in our pages, please write to the Editor. Our policy is to correct mistakes promptly in print and to apologise where appropriate. We reserve the right to edit any article, letter or email submitted for publication. To contact us: Redbrick Guild of Students Edgbaston Park Road Birmingham B15 2TU 0121 251 2462 editor@redbrickonline.co.uk www.redbrickonline.co.uk Redbrick is printed through www.quotemeprint.com: 08451 300667. Advertising: Contact Aimee Fitzpatrick in Guild Marketing on 0121 251 2524 or a.fitzpatrick@guild. bham.ac.uk
guish, was started deliberately. UNI OF BIRMINGHAM
Crossword Editor John Rizkallah
Junior Art Director Lauren Wheatley
have announced that they be-
GUILD
Technology Editor Joshua Lindsey technology@redbrickonline.co.uk
Online Editorial Assistants Sophie MurrayMorris Rosie Pearce Josh Taylor Eimear Luddy
Bradford this week when a mill in the centre of the city caught
ITALY
Online Sport Editor Joel Lamy
Editorial Assistants Oscar French Ellie Jarvis Isabel Mason Sarah Musgrove Elisha Owen
Redbrick
7th October 2011
Steve Jobs dies of pancreatic cancer Steve Jobs, the founder and previous CEO of the Apple brand has passed away. Jobs had announced his retirement earlier this year citing health reasons. His death comes less than 48 hours after Apple's announcement of the iPhone 4s.
Overheard on campus 'Like, I really need to be careful with my loan, I spent £400 on a tattoo last night.' 'I just washed my clothes and they are so wet. Really really wet.' 'I did the washing and it was the most confusing thing of my life.' 'I think it was Mayfair?' 'Oh that's good then, it's the purple one in Monopoly so you know it's posh'
'Just Google the word slaves.' 'Yeah, I did but there aren't any good ones.'
'Why are Mexico not in the Eurovision song contest?' 'I didn't know London was by the sea...' 'Why do vegetarians eat nuts?' 'What do you mean?' 'Because...what about the squirrels?' 'How many bars did you get kicked out of last night?' 'Is Japan a city in China?'
Thanks to Georgette Smith, Judith Hawkins, OverheardBham on Twitter and Facebook
Redbrick
redbrickpaper.co.uk
7th October 2011
Sabbs on the week
Patrick McGhee
#xfactor your ridiculous
@Guild_President Steps reunion on sky living, now that takes me back to childhood!!
MOTORING
Petrol consumption falls Since the start of the recession, the AA has calculated that drivers have cut their petrol consumption by more than 15 per cent. According to the AA, compared with the same period three years ago, total petrol 2011 were 1.7 billion litres less.
I hate trains. If the government really cared about global warming then it would sort out it's public transport! #goingtolearn-
@Guild_President @jamie_vick stole a pizza of yours from the freezer. Don't be mad, you are helping my welfare for fab :p #iwillreplace :p
Whats that? I'm a fully accredited landlord? HELL YES I AM. #sellyoak
Watching the AFL Grand Final. Don't have a clue what's going on. #aussierules
Slept straight through the England game... prolly for the best #jammyenglish
Spotlight on Societies
@EddBauer Bah I m going to have to stop work early again tonight to go sign on bail at the police station, it is a two hour walk.
Tom Byrne
Northern Society President: Ollie Cosentino
We started in March 2010. We felt there had been a serious lack of Northern-ness for long enough!
It's about bringing together people who are either from the North or just love the North. We celebrate the culture and encourage everyone to experience Northern ways. And gravy. Lots of gravy.
How to choose?! For some it was Blackpool, for others it was the Pie and Film night. We offer different Northern experiences at each event, so even if it is just a trip off t'pub, it's always a laugh!
It's all gravy up North.
north as Berwick on Thames and as far south as Devon. We're a bunch of rate friendly people out for some good times. We aren't restricted to people from the North of England – we all live North of somewhere!
Thursday 13th October – Pub Quiz in the Underground in the Guild. £1 per person Saturday 22nd October – Trip to Blackpool (including sandcastles, chippy tea and the illuminations.)
1. We are one of the biggest societies at the Guild – we have over 100 members. 2. We've substituted shots of alcohol for shots of gravy on our bar crawls. 3. Our members are from as far
facebook.com/NorthernSociety Twitter: @UoBNorthernSoc Email: northern@guild.bham. ac.uk Anyone is welcome to any events – Northern or not!
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A busy start... Glen Moutrie Editor
The last two weeks have been the busiest I have experienced in my one and a half years at Redbrick. Preparation for Freshers' Week, a nomination in the Guardian Media Awards, launching a 'Join Us' recruitment campaign, Bauer's arrest somewhere in between. The last of that list is probably one of the largest pieces of news to hit campus since the Prime Minister's debate in 2010, and we will continue to provide the best coverage we can on the topic. Nonetheless, we must consider the trial that is due to take place later this month, and Redbrick must avoid publishing any material which might prejudice the outcome of that trial and amount to a contempt of court. As a result, this issue will only report the events as we have done on our website, we will publish key information but remain completely impartial in our analysis of it. There will be no coverage from Comment & Features on the topic in the immediate future. We do, however, hope to cover the debate that has arisen in greater depth once we are more able to do so. On a lighter note, this summer has been one of the most succesful that Redbrick has ever had - the Birmingham riots coverage was the centre-piece of this. Viewed by over 40,000 people Redbrick's website totalled around 190,000 page views over a few days. Our website received congratulations from Ones To Watch media, Journalism.co.uk, the Guardian as well as contributing to two great achievements: Student publication of the month and our shortlist in the upcoming Guardian Media Awards for Website of the Year. I personally believe that our tinous shift from print to online content within Redbrick and the media industry as a whole. If the last safe bastian of print's tactile nature becomes overcome by the fast growing tablet market, then it may become increasingly any other medium than online. Print's days are numbered, and they are fewer than we may think.
A day in the life of a fresher I woke up this morning at 9am to a kitche m p t y v o d k a bottles, two upturned chairs a whole lot of washing up, along with the remnants of last night's dinner. But never mind that, we'll clear it up later (i.e. three days later). Bleary eyed, I made my way to campus with my free map in hand – don't judge, it's a big campus! I felt like I was back in Year
7. I'd just like to point out to all the second and third years – You were freshers once too! There's no need to sigh in irritation because there's too many of us and we don't know where we are going! Shout out goes to the girl in my English Lit lecture who arrived ten minutes late and then proceeded to fall all the way down the stairs in front of at least 150 students. An hour later and I had ture. On to the Societies Fair! I signed the mailing list for the Philsoc, Bedsoc , People & Planet, Amnesty International,
Redbrick, Burn FM, G: TV and the Welsh Society – Ok, I went a at one point, not really looking at it properly – took a quick glance… 'Fetish Society'. Not really for me, but thanks anyway! I returned to our deserved nap. However, the infestation of ladybirds all over my plans. This, I hope, won't be in the average day of
vacuuming up ladybirds. (Apologies to any ladybird fans who may be reading) night – fajitas! They didn't need to know that it was out of an Old El Paso kit… It was a bit of a treat, particularly for one normally has pasta with pesto e v e r y night. No exaggeration. Then it was that time again: Pre-
spent a good part of the afternoon
as per usual, and we got the freshers' festivities underway. At 11pm the taxis were called, which led to an inevitable argument with the taxi-driver about how we were quoted £1 on the phone, and how dare he charge us 50p extra? Arriving home at just after 3am, can't quite remember what happened in the meantime... Rhian Lubin
4 News
Redbrick
7th October 2011 www.redbrickpaper.co.uk
Editors – Anna Hughes, James Brilliant & Kerrina Gray
What would you do if you were a fresher again? 'I would have learnt to play more musical instruments' Marius, 4th year MCInvestment
'Joined more societies - I got 'I would have taken advantage of being more involved in 2nd year but you never know what you single more!' might have missed out on' Gavin, 3rd year PhD Metallurgy & Materials
Bella, 3rd year English
Joe's Plus card launches with mixed student reviews Alice Kinder Reporter
The introduction of a Joe's Plus loyalty card after a rise in drinks prices last year has sparked a mixed reaction amongst students. The card, which can be bought for £1, offers students a range of discounts on drinks at Joe's Bar in the Guild. However it is not valid on student club nights such as Fab and Fresh. Hugo Sumner, Vice President (Democracy and Resources), promised cheaper drinks on campus as part of his electoral campaign. However, due to a rise in VAT, Joe’s Bar has been forced to absorb a cost price increase meaning that standard drinks have become more expensive. Sumner described these price increases as ‘really annoying’ and that it is ‘impossible to get the full picture
Joe's Bar in the Guild of Students
Continued from front. Following his suspension from his sabbatical officer role Bauer was then informed three days later that he had also been suspended as a student, claiming that he had been banned from campus and all his University accounts shut down without notice. The University issued the following comment on the 3rd of October: ‘We have been informed by the Guild of Students of their decision to suspend the Vice President (Education). Having graduated this summer his technical status as a registered student is held by virtue of his Guild Officer position and therefore will be in abeyance for the duration of his suspension. ‘The University considers that its position should reflect the decision by the recognised student representative body.’ Shortly before going to print on Wednesday evening Bauer authored an article at approximately 5.30pm that was posted on the Guardian newspaper’s website; on Thursday the article
[of the price increase] unless you’re in the job.’ 2nd year Economics student Michael Evans said, 'I think it's silly that I have to buy a card to get cheap drinks at my own Uni.' When questioned whether the Joe's Plus card simply brings the cost of drinks prices back to last year’s prices Sumner said that drinks are now cheaper than last year with the card. For example, a pint of Carlsberg cost £2.35 last year but now a standard price of £2.65 or £2.00 with a Joe's Plus card. Sumner said, The ‘student union should be the cheapest place to drink' and that with the Joe's Plus card, prices are competitive with other student dominated venues in Selly Oak. 3rd year Law student Claire Simmons said: 'I bought a Joe's card but didn't know it wouldn't
Oliver Swain
was printed in the Comment & Debate section of the newspaper's print edition. In the article, Bauer initially describes his arrest and suspension from both the University and the Guild, providing further reflection upon issues such as student activism, social equality, the government’s approach to higher education and democracy within student unions. He said: 'Despite my release and the lack of any trial, the
work at Fab, which is annoying because I only go in Joe's then.' With 80% of all Joe's revenue coming from club nights, Sumner said that it was not practical for the card to be valid at these events because of the risk of losing margins, meaning student services such as the Arc and Job Zone wouldn’t be able to run. However, Fab and Sports Night will run Spotlight Offers throughout the year. Sumner said, ‘a pound is small price to pay for a wide range of cheaper drinks’. Drinks price reductions will be reviewed monthly, meaning that the most popular drinks will always be included as part of the offer. Food offers will be reviewed similarly. Currently nine drinks make up 70% of Joe's profit. The Joe's+ card can also be used for food, with meal deals launching this month. These include two for one pizza offers and food and drink combinations such as three pancakes and a hot drink for £1.75. On the Joe's+ card Sumner said, ‘The new Joe's Plus loyalty card scheme has been a huge success so far. With nearly 6,000 cards sold so far, students are getting better value for their food and drink than ever before’. He added that he and President of the Guild Mark Harrop are ‘quite proud’ of what they have achieved so far this year, and that all three of Sumner’s campaign points will be put through by the end of term. These include lowering drinks prices, increasing Guild promotion and providing better resources for employability.
University of Birmingham Guild of Students thought my peaceful protest against university fees and education cuts was enough to have me suspended "indefinitely" and "with immediate effect" from my role as vice-president for education', adding 'I feel that my detention is part of a criminalisation of protest and student activism. It's unsurprising that students and their supporters are fighting back in Birmingham...student officers have a particular onus to actively
defend the interests of those who elected them. But my case exemplifies how some student unions are failing to represent and empower their constituents...student representatives across the country face the danger of being removed by unaccountable bureaucracies, but it is a risk we must take.' The story as we went to print By Thursday morning over
100 comments had been posted online in response to the article, with many offering both strong support and criticism of Bauer. Another letter calling for Bauer to be reinstated whilst under investigation was also published on the Times Higher Education site. The letter included the signatures of the MP for Hayes and Harlington and sabbatical officers from multiple universities including LSE, Warwick, Edinburgh and Manchester.
NEW STATEMENT FROM GUILD OF STUDENTS PRESIDENT MARK HARROP 'It is with regret that I confirm that the Vice President (Education) was suspended from his duties as a Sabbatical Officer on Tuesday 27 September. The decision to suspend the Vice President (Education) was made by the Sabbatical Officer Team, following legal advice and in line with approved Guild processes. We can confirm that there were multiple reasons for the suspension, and the decision to suspend was taken so that an investigation could be conducted by the Guild into allegations. The Vice President (Education) has not been suspended indefinitely, and whilst it is difficult to put an exact timeframe on how long the investigation will take (as the Guild wishes to follow a fair and thorough process) but the Guild hopes to complete the investigation within 2-4 weeks. I would also like to add that the suspension of the Vice President (Education) will continue to receive his bursary payment throughout the investigatory process, and the suspension will not affect his Guild Officer status. The Guild is unable to comment any further at this stage pending its investigations as the Guild does not want to prejudice the process.'
Redbrick
News 5
7th October 2011 www.redbrickpaper.co.uk
Editors – Anna Hughes, James Brilliant & Kerrina Gray
Patrick McGhee
'I'd have made the most of central heating in halls when I could - and left the lights on longer!
Ali, 2nd year, Electrical Engineering
Jess, 3rd year English and Drama
Reporter
Christopher Whiteley, the former course admissions administrator tutor at the medical school, has
looking at adult pornography and only looked at them through a 'morbid curiosity'. According to Mr Whiteley’s defence, he now feels ashamed and recognises what he has lost.
Hannah, 3rd year English and Drama
sentencing remarked that 'It is implausible for me to accept you of images if it wasn’t for some sexual interest.'
counts of making indecent photographs of children and three counts of possessing indecent photographs of children. Mr Whiteley, aged 41, was arrested in July last year after IT staff at the university became concerned by his behaviour. After police investigations began, his home
places. Further images were found on two USB sticks and it emerged that there were approximately 2,800 indecent photographs of children on his work computer; of which
Reporter
Lorna Fitzsimons, CEO of British Israel Communications and Research Centre (BICOM), visited the University of Birmingham to give a speech on the Israel and Palestine tine: What’s this all about?’ The speech and following debate raised a number points- the plausibility of the two- state model being implemented and the need to balance the right of Palestinians or their own state against the right of Israel to security and self-defence. The theme of Israel’s right to defend itself was a prominent one; asked by Fitzsimons was whether the audience believes in the country’s right to defend itself. Whilst the positive answer was almost unanimous, some of the tactics used by IDF and Israeli governinstance the heavy blockade implemented on Gaza strip, with even the most basic items such as sanitary towels being denied to those affected by the blockade. This was admitted to be a serious issue by Fitzsimons, but it was also noted that even the most basic goods can be used to conceal far mons said "You would be surprised like a toilet roll" On the whole, a lot of the deci-
Party conferences on higher education Patrick McGhee Reporter
Redbrick reports on what each party said:
The three main parties have held their annual conferences in the last month, each spelling out their key policies on higher education, and in particular tuition fees. After a year of substantial changes, with the fee increase set to come into effect next year, a lot was at stake for the parties. Many votes could be won or lost on their policies on higher education this year.
The Liberal Democrats, held their own conference here in Birmingham. The party did not spend a lot of time discussing the issue of tuition fees and further education,
Medical School
sions made by Israeli government and forces were described as mistakes - however, it was pointed out takes are made. Fitzsimons said, however 'Sometimes something had to be done because there was nothing else to do". She also added that there is no such thing as a clean and fair war; anyone who believes in this idealistic portrait of a war Another point discussed was the one concerning the Jewish settlements in the West Bank, considered illegal internationally. Though Fitzsimons was clearly not in favour of such expansion being continued, she mentioned that moving some large established communities of settlers would be logistically hard, if not impossible. An aspect of the debate that was received with interest from the audience was Fitzsimons’s view on Tony Blair’s role as the Middle East peace envoy and his dealings with the Quartet. She dismissed the suggestions of his primary motivation being money, and his ing that he was the best candidate the extensive charity work he does across the world. ideas from Lorna’s presentation was her call for mutual respect from both sides, as well as the
from our minds, which was advised to the voices from both sides of the argument.
Lorna Fitzsimons on the idealistic portrait of war: '[You] must have watched too many
topics which have previously been the focus of their conferences. Sarah Teather, Children's Minister did speak generally about education, saying 'I want to talk about another of Labour's legaheart of the nation's education system.' However she failed to set out any plans for higher education. The Lib Dems have, however, voted to reconsider the coalition’s position that part-time students should begin to pay back their student loans three-and-a-half years after enrolment, whether they have completed courses yet or not.
Michael Drury
Campus talk: Lorna Fitzsimons on Israel & Palestine Nargis Erabi
Beckie, 3rd year Classics & Drama
Lib Dems
more than 2,500 pornographic im-
category. Once police confronted Whiteley over the images, he replied that he saw the indecent images after
and not be afraid to make friends straight away'
'I'd work less!'
Admissions administrator charged for indecent photos Ryan Jones
'Get involved with
'I would study every day'
Labour The Labour Party has proposed to cap university tuition fees at £6000. In his speech to the Labour conference in Liverpool, leader Ed Miliband said that his party would reduce and limit fees to the new now’. In an interview with Andrew Marr, Mr Miliband stressed that it would appear in the party’s election manifesto at the general election in three-and-a-half years time. The proposal has come under
attack from the government, which has labelled it as a U-turn in light of Labour’s previously suggested graduate tax system, while CentreForum, a think tank associated with the Liberal Democrats, has published a report claiming that only high-earning students would Liam Burns, the President of the National Union of Students has written that the new plan solution to the government's white paper proposals, this is a very welcome suggestion.’
Conservative Addressing delegates at the Conservative party conference in Manchester, Universities Minister David Willetts responded to Labour's announcement, accusing Labour party’s commitment to the policy, with a graduate tax’. Mr. Willetts also used his conference speech to announce that EU procurement rules will of universities, as part of what he
from regulation. The Universities Minister took the opportunity to defend the coalition’s current tufair deal’ for students and arguing versities stronger.’
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redbrickpaper.co.uk
Redbrick
7th October 2011
Comment & Features
Editors – Amanda Callaghan & Ali Hendy
The arguments used in favour of the death penalty are hanging by the noose
Editorial
Amanda Callaghan Comment and Features Editor
To adapt to the total relocation and life overhaul at the start of term is a challenge at university. Freshers, beginning their university career bright eyed, bushy tailed and keen to prove something tend to take up the gauntlet with relish. It is those coming back as already established students, faces weathered with wisdom and ex– that are perhaps the unsung victims of the ordeals of acclimatization. It takes a while to feel comfortable and at ease with the already familiar surroundings and for everything to feel normal. In the impossible dream of a life of some equity between work and play or just mastering basic time management – can seem a daunting task tempered only with the
-
tween work and play can seem a daunting task, tempered only with the too much on the concept of balance is in itself quite unbalanced... Isn't it?' the concept of balance is in itself quite unbalanced... Isn't it? That, and the constant reminder to stop taking yourself and your own meaningless existence so bloody seriously. But try as you might, by about week some semblance of routine. By the end of term, if you're lucky mind, you might be feeling smug – pretty sure you're starting to get it right or at least are no longer neglecting key elements of your university life. You can manage nights out whilst refraining to sleep in all day, you are sticking to some kind of budget meaning that there are not points in the months where all you have to eat is porridge until time to call home every now and again and assure your family you are still alive. And then, before we can say 'Selly Sausage' it will be the end of term and our own invisible, individual, giant stopwatches hovering above Edgbaston and Selly Oak switch to STOP and it's time to go home. Despite exclamations of, 'not yet! I've just about got the hang of this!' it's back to that other life away from university, surrounded by a different group of people we love and a whole new different balance to strive for.
Alexander Blanchard Arts Editor
Imagine being engrossed, to the point of infatuation, with something that one is viewing through the keyhole of a door. You are bentdouble, breathing heavily, and with your entire consciousness you sordid and debauched. Then suddenly, coming from behind you, and abruptly you come to perceive yourself as that 'other' in the room must subjectively perceive you. The shame is insuperable. This is Sartre's phenomenological analysis of shame. It is the sort of feeling – along with the absurdity of cutting a living man's life short that Orwell so adeptly describes in his essay 'A Hanging' – that one can imagine suddenly feeling upon realising that one is complicit in, or indeed goading on, the obliteration of a life; the silent vaporisation of sentience, as though it is some form of public entertainment. Where in the criminal's mind, people might ask, is this very feeling of shame and the sense of cutting a life short? If the criminal felt shame, and the slightest sense of redemption, then the greatest punishment is a life of imprisonment. The death penalty, for the criminal, amounts to an ineffable nothingness – literally a 'get out of jail free' card. You cannot feel guilt,
'It is curious, but till that moment I had never realized what it means to destroy a healthy, conscious man. This man was not dying, he was alive just as we were alive. All the organs of his body were working – bowels digesting food, skin renewing itself, nails growing, tissues forming – all toiling away in solemn foolery' – George Orwell.
remorse or punishment if you do not exist. If the criminal does not feel an inkling of remorse, regret, or understanding at the moral travesty they have committed then for there was never any deter-
'The death penalty, for the criminal, amounts to an ineffable nothingness – literally a 'get out of jail free' card. You cannot feel guilt, remorse, punishment if you do not exist.' rence – lunatics belong in an asylum. Any mindful observer of the debate over the restoration of the death penalty will know that it's something much more than that age-old moral dilemma of choosing between 'an eye-for-an-eye' or 'to turn the other cheek'. Unlike prison, the death sentence brings with it a palpable sense of retribution that can be felt vicariously by those privy to the preceding trial – something that 24-hour news with its imposing reportage has aggravated. What is felt, if you like, is something of a release; a closure that is felt paral-
lel to that of the victim's bereaved. What if there then rises a demand for this vicarious 'release', a demand that grows insatiable? What if we then come to expect, as the logical consequence of the machinations of justice, an execution in the case of murders? Could this lead to a 1984 style sense of frustration that is surely unhealthy for any civilised society? Furthermore, how is one meant to reconcile the sheer hypocrisy of the death sentence with elementary ideas of morality? On what grounds can it be asserted that it is right for the state to kill? Holding up the state as some amoral entity, without agency or cause, and indemnifying it against our deepest values of justice is a very dangerous act – the very same act that permits the taking of life under the name of 'War'. Think of a child's incredulity upon explaining to them 'killing is wrong, but the state is allowed to kill you'. Their incredulity would be insurmountable, and for a very good reason. even the most ardent champions justice. An argument against capital punishment that is as invoked as it is compelling. From the Sotan, husband and father of three, who mistakenly hung in Cardiff in 1952, to Troy Davis, murdered by the state of Georgia on heavily disputed evidence last month – each case is as nauseating as the last. Do we not feel, to the deepest core of our humanity, that it would be better to keep capital punishment off the statue books then to grant the slightest chance of condemning an innocent man or women to death? It would be a mistake to believe that our justice system could ever be infallible, particularly with a police force that, as recent revelations have shown us, is not completely free of corruption. Each miscarriage of
justice is a devastating blow to the case for restoration; there is nothing to prevent them. The act of cutting a life short is near-impossible to conceive – to be presented with the body of a deceased relative is to be presented with something unexplainable – but surely, if we could surmount these conceptual restoration of the death penalty with much more resolve than the click of a button and the signing of an e-petition. The crime of taking a life is an abhorrent act of barbarity: collectively reducing ourselves to that same level is not the mark of a civilised society.
138 Inmates exonerated from death row in the U.S since 1973
527 The number of executions that took place world wide in 2010
23 The number of countries to carry out the death penalty in 2010
Redbrick Editors – Amanda Callaghan & Ali Hendy
Comment & Features
7th October 2011 www.redbrickpaper.co.uk
7
Sex sells, but what is the cost? Eleanor Smallwood Commentator
Grace Jones: known for her body Name any one of the female figureheads of pop music, and there's a chance that their reputation involves something at the very least controversial to go with their music. Gaga, Katy Perry and of course Rihanna all have a wealth of videos to their name, and most of which see the compromising of their clothing and dance moves which make the coarsest of souls blush. None of this is to say that there
is not any talent in pop today, but so often their ability is overshadowed by their inclination to push record sales based on their image, which often simply boils down to sex. This is not a conservative attitude; it's recognition of the descent into coarseness which music and other aspects of our culture have taken. Rihanna became a real reprobate of this crime earlier in the week, when upon filming topless in farmer Alan Graham's field over in Bangor, County Down ahead of the Ireland dates of her tour. Graham, a devout Christian, gave Rihanna her marching orders, sending her off to get dressed, go elsewhere and find God. It's not often that I find myself in whole-hearted agreement with a DUP farmer, but one of those occasions is now. Rihanna is a serial offender; 2010s X Factor final racked up 4,500 complaints to Ofcom about the singer's raunchy performance on Saturday night television. To add to this, a government-backed report emerged over the summer which revealed concerns about the sexualised imagery in music videos. All of this has led to Ofcom bringing in a fist of iron on broadcasters, imploring them to be tougher with the content which they show pre-9PM watershed. It would be naive to think that sex is a new aspect within the industry. The increasing bawdiness of our popular culture is everywhere, and music could arguably be the home ground for it. Whether it's lyrics, routines or lack of cloth-
ing, you can guarantee that if you tune into any music channel you will be mere minutes away from an artist, likely female, gyrating across your screen. It is startling how little these videos are restricted. A rare episode of censorship was seen when Youtube made Rihanna's video for the single S&M over-18 content; as reasonable as this may seem, the video is no more suggestive than any of her others. Upon paying attention to the lyrics, and for that matter video for Love the Way You Lie, you might find yourself shocked that a song condoning domestic violence in such a blatant manner is allowed to be shown and played on the radio. What can be overlooked, however, apart from the points that any one feminist might have to raise is the fact that young girls everywhere are watching these clips, listening to these lyrics and idolising these stars. There is no question that the dominating presence of sex within our culture must be having a detrimental effect within a generation's worth of children; whether distorting their perceptions of it or potentially causing problems with selfworth and confidence. Being more open within our generation about sex may have its benefits, but there is a boundary between educating and bombarding. The government have started to address the problem, but it may be out of our hands. Where we may be coming down harder on the showing of music videos, there are still issues with film, advertising and even childrens' clothing styles.
'Hey guys, welcome to the pier' Owen Earwicker Online Features Editor
Returning home after a year at university takes a degree of readjustment. There are the bigger ing some of the independence you enjoyed, to the smaller things like getting used to the new location of the mugs. Also there is a degree of readjusting to your home surroundings; in my case, Reading. Reading is a town perhaps best known for its music festival, and less known for its biscuitproducing past and Reading-wide famous 'Smelly Alley'. Walking through the equivalent of the Bullring (The Oracle), I turned the corner from Waterstones one day. I stopped dead. To my right, the sports shop that had been losing money for years had transformed. The fading pictures
of footballers had been replaced by shutters. The once wide and brightly lit entrance morphed into a dark, private and uninviting Californian beach hut porch. Like a sneaking gas cloud, as all over the clothes, Hollister Encroaching into the walkway, the shutters and porch offer a brief glimpse into a world of branded 'bliss' designed to enhance a sense beauty. People think it works. Put on a t-shirt that says Hollister across the chest and the girls swoon, the guys stop and stare. It's a brand that represents a lifestyle, purely based upon aesthetics. The clothing has no style, no creativity, no soul. Each item is fairly simple, but for the word 'Hollister' emblazoned upon it like weed killer poured on an ex-girlfriend's lawn, spelling the word 'bitch'. But the clothes don't need style, because the people who run Hollister want to sell their wares ful, evident from the way the company hires staff. Those who look like they might belong in California are plucked from the streets. Invited to audition, candidates are ruthlessly sorted into those who look more like they're from California to work front of house, and those who are less Californiaesque to work in the back. But for a company so overtly selective, there is something that really puzzles me about the store. In the course of preparing to write this article, I conducted research in the name of Redbrick by swallowing my pride, dignity and self-
respect and actually going into Hollister's Birmingham branch. The overriding question in my mind was why is a company that is so adamant on looks, equally so insistent on making their shops so dark? Once my eyes had got accustomed to the gloom, I found I could still barely see anything. Luckily I had not just come from Forever21; if I had I am sure the contrast between the two lighting styles would have put me in a coma. The darkness combined with the sickly smell started to induce nausea as I walked around, becoming increasingly self-aware. One thing that was easy to make out in the dark was the overly fake smiles from shop-assistants. We asked a question of one, he struggled to understand and answer; obviously his chiselled angular jaw mitigated his lack of basic English in the eyes of his employer. I will never wear Hollister mynumber of people who don't watch 90210 or The OC, and accept that no matter how hard they try, they'll never actually come from California. It's a lifestyle that has unfortunately spread into British culture like so many other aspects of US life. But I'm from Reading, not LA. When thinking of a suitable conclusion to this piece, I said to my friend that I wanted to get across how Hollister and the people who wear it speak volumes about what is wrong with society, but of course that this was all based on my own prejudices against such people. She replied dices'... so true.
It's attitude which surely has a greater impact than any laws put into place, and within the music industry at least this shows no signs of changing any time soon. All that I know is it's a far cry from the days when Avril Lavigne was my everything and all I wanted to do was learn how to skateboard.
Elin Stone
Not-so-fast and furious Freddie Herzog Online News Editor
The roads of Britain are more clogged than a heart attack sufferer's arteries. Many things have been tried to rectify this problem but all of them have failed. The worst of these was the ludicrous decision by the last government to restrict certain parts of motorways from 70mph to 50mph during peak times. This apparently journey times. The idea that by going slower you will get to your destination quicker seems completely paradoxical. The previous government could not even provide statistics to prove this theory – instead journey times were shown to increase. Statistics from earlier this year show the average vehicle delay on the slowest ten per cent of journeys on motorways is now at 3.6 minutes per ten miles. This means that if you drive from the centre of Birmingham to Westminster (a journey of 118 miles and one of the busiest routes at peak times), you will be delayed for over 40 minutes, making the normal just over two hour route time nearly three hours. The answer comes from a new Department of Transport consultation, which proposes to raise the UK national speed limit from 70mph to 80mph. As stated by Transport Secretary Philip Hammond, the current limit (introduced in 1965) is outdated due to 'huge advances in safety and motoring technology'. The original limit was set at 70 because most cars in 1965 could not do more than 70. But even small, low pow-
ered cars can now easily reach 90mph. But the most convincing reason for raising the speed limit, as pointed out by Mr Hammond is that 'the current limit has lost its legitimacy. We all know that many, many motorists, who are otherwise law-abiding citizens, routinely ignore the 70 miles per hour limit.' as 49 per cent of motorists exceed the current speed limit. This lawbreaking is not going to go away, especially as the DoT has declared there will be no more Whitehall cash for speed cameras. While some may say that the consultation has only been set up to please Jeremy Clarkson and followers of Top Gear, it is a fact that the UK has the lowest motorway speed limit in Europe. Ireland and Spain are at 75mph and France at 81mph (68mph in the rain). Raising the speed limit would therefore bring us on a par with the rest of Europe. The accident rate in Germany is around 25 per cent of the UK level and this from a country that has some areas of unrestricted motorway. work is vital to a successful economy. If journey times were reduced then haulage prices would decrease, bringing down the cost of food, and everything else transported around the country. And as the old saying goes 'time is money'.
8 Comment & Features
Redbrick
7th October 2011 www.redbrickpaper.co.uk
Editors – Amanda Callaghan & Ali Hendy
Redbrick puts the spotlight on itself and asks if modern journalism needs to change...
The culture of 'trial by media' cannot continue Matthew Hewson Commentator
Shortly after Christmas, a man named Chris Jefferies was arrested as part of an investigation into the murder of 23 year old landscape architecht, Joanna Yeates. Named in front page headlines as 'the strange Mr Jefferies' and described as being both 'obsessed with death' and 'a Peeping Tom', readers were left with almost no doubt that this man was a murderer. On the 8th March, he was released without charge. Ridiculed, humiliated and forced to leave the area in which he had previously lived, sections of the press had perfected a character assassination of a wholly innocent man, whose greatest crime had been renting a house to a murder victim. Had Jefferies ever gone to trial, it is fair speculation that he would have been unable to receive a fair hearing, such was the public perception of him. Behaviour like this severely damages the reputation of print media, and a public belief that it can effectively regulate itself. This issue is far wider than phone hacking – elements of the press routinely act sensationally and with a reprehensible lack of restraint. Freedom of the press is a crucial element in any fair and democratic society. The Fourth Estate is our only effective method of keeping the rich and powerful in check. Yet while this freedom and the accountability it brings has been
thoroughly vindicated in recent years, it has arguably never been under such grave threat. Of greatest danger is statutory, governmental regulation. Currently, the media is self-regulated under the auspices of 'The Press Complaints Commission', an entirely ineffectual and impotent organisation that lacks any tangible power and is widely ignored by large sections of Fleet Street. The PCC has been heavily criticised for its incompetency (particularly in the hacking scandal) and is unlikely to remain in its present form. Nonetheless, self-regulation is vital - only through independence from government can any integrity remain. The Fourth Estate holds those in power to account. If they are then statutorily regulated by those in power, all forms of corruption may ensue. Equally concerning is the chorus of voices that have recently argued for licensing of journalists, with those acting irresponsibly to have their licenses revoked. This Who would issue and revoke these licenses? MPs thoroughly resisted all attempts at investigating their expenses. Imagine then, a world where The Daily Telegraph had been prevented by those same MPs from breaking the story. Licensing also fails to address the underlying issues surrounding irresponsible journalism. Journalists alone are not responsible for the printing of inaccurate or misleading stories. The culture of a paper and their
editors also have parts to play. Effective self-regulation of the press would solve these issues far, far more completely than the token gesture of approving licences for hacks. The freedom of the press is essential. Print media, in all its
Commentator
MPs have a lot of power. MPs are also, if you can believe it, not always entirely benevolent. This combination led many to conclude that there ought to be some way in which the public could discover if their MP has been encouraged to use their power in a way that they shouldn't, and so we have the House of Commons' Register of Members' Financial Interests. It's quite splendid. This wonderful little thing allows us to rest easy
that our MP has voted to, for example, increase the national speed limit to 80mph, we can check that they haven't recently received a sizeable donation from a Mr J Clarkson. But what about the humble journalist? Should they declare
Jefferies was labelled a 'pervert' and a 'Peeping Tom' by tabloid newspapers
The Guardian columnist George Monbiot certainly thinks so. He recently declared his of his own accord, in an effort to encourage others to do the same. Monbiot's argument for the
register focuses heavily on what he believes is the journalist's responsibility to apply the same standards to themselves as they demand from the politician or the and transparency. In light of recent revelations regarding media institutions and those who work for them, I expect this is quite a popular view, but it's not hypocrisy that bothers me. I'm really not that interested in whether some journalists are being slightly less than morally perfect, I'm worried about the power that they have over me. Many have argued that it's not necessary for journalists to declare how they earn their ready-meals, but it is. It's very nice to think that they don't have much power over us. It's not true though. I really wish it was. I wish we all possessed the intellectual ability to prevent ourselves ever being manipulated by the words that we read, but the truth is, none of us do. Even if you're better than average 'political correctness gone mad' rant, there are always going to be situations where you just don't have the knowledge necessary to realise that statistics are being misrepresented or plain lies being told. We all need to have a bit of humility and realise that, despite the vast array of information available to us, we're not omniscient. Even if you know that you're being fed utter nonsense, it's still just as essential that you under-
a hangover by Laura Megatli
forms, urgently needs to clean up its act and prove it can behave responsibly, not simply for its own sake, but for the sake of all who wish to live in a transparent and accountable society.
Journalists need to practice what they preach Sam Jones
How do you solve a problem like...
stand why. With a journalists' you'd be able to check if a columnist just tried to convince you that smoking isn't as unhealthy as people say because he believes it, or because the tobacco industry has 'encouraged' him to do so. It's no different to checking whether the Conservative Party are trying to postpone banking regulation reform until 2019 because it just can't be done before then, or because 51.4% of the party's sector.
'It's time we put our egos aside and ask what's motivating those who inform us about the world' So it's time we put our egos aside, stop assuming that we're beyond manipulation and ask what's motivating those who inform us about what's happening in a mandatory register of interests coming into existence any time soon, but those who are serious about professional and respectable journalism will understand that we need to know if someone's paying to reshape our views. At the very least, we might actually being paid to reveal the Marxist conspiracy at the heart of that one out all by himself.
We've all been there, it's the morning after the night before and you'd do anything to make like a timelord and go back to that point in the night when Fab was fab and there wasn't a dance troupe of baby elephants pounding on your head. Just as we're all different types of drunks i.e. the crier, the angry drunk, the happy drunk and the lost in action drunk, we also have different types of hangovers and therefore different ways to cure or quieten them. My personal favourite is lime pickle and soft cheese on crackers, and if you think that's weird you haven't heard anything yet. The Turkish favourite is tripe soup which sounds more suited to hinder a dodgy stomach, not help. However, this steaming soup made of edible livestocks' stomach is renowned for both curing and preventing any hangover you throw at it. The fry-up is the king of all hangover foods - it's so bad, it's good. I love a good fry-up as much as the next person, however, the Ancient Romans' answer to the hangover blues is perhaps a step too far in the culinary sense. According to urban legend, the Romans liked nothing more than to tuck into a deep fried canary the morning after a heavy night of vino and cheese.
'The Ancient Romans' answer to the hangover blues is perhaps a step too far in the culinary sense. According to urban legend, the Romans liked nothing more than to tuck into deep fried canary on the morning after' If fried canary doesn't quite tickle your fancy, how about hair of the dog? Although if you are anything like me, the mere sight of alcohol the morning after will be enough to have you running for the bathroom. There's always the eat-foodwhile-drunk solution because as we all know, a Rooster House a day keeps the hangover away. Or if actively dispelling your hangover isn't your thing then the only option is to stock up on rubbish movies, wear your PJs all-day and wallow in your own self-pity. That's right, I'm talking about a duvet day! bunch: to just not drink. Ever. No, I'm not buying it either. After all, what is the point of youth if not to look back fondly and say 'Oh, that's what happened to my liver'?
Redbrick
7th October 2011
9
www.redbrickpaper.co.uk
James Dolton defends humanities degrees and those 'lazy good-for-nothing' students who read them I gather it happens every year. Thousands of us fall out of our lovable, squalid sixth forms and colleges, and arrive in our lovable, ready to advance our academic careers. After the customary awkward cupboard capture and brushing off of still clinging parents, the tables with our new housemates: 'So what are you studying?' Here the divide begins to show. I’m sure a multitude of you must be familiar with the response which goes something like this:
'Oh... cool. So you are going to be like, a teacher, right?' Suddenly words fail you. You are hit with a sudden internal struggle. 'I don’t want to be a teacher, do I? I only just got out of School! Hold on... What do I want to be?' You inevitably garble something about waiting to see what happens and wanting to keep your options open, and return the initial question with 'What are you studying?' Again somewhat inevitably, the answer always seems to be something like 'Medicine'. The person gives you a pleasant, pitying
little smile, like it was really sweet of you to try, and moves on around the table, leaving you squirming in your sudden introspective anguish. 'What am I doing here? What was I doing before? What am I going my degree is not so useless that all that is left for me is to return to the education establishment I just left and corrupt other students to follow me down my merry, pointless path?' ing with any of these dichotomies, you are one of our number. One of
the (whisper it) Humanities Students. Us bumbling, deluded saps who turned up to do our Art and History and Philosophy and English courses without a care in the world as to what we were going to do with them, whilst the Engineers and the Medics and the Mathematicians all sniggered at our paltry contact time and dishevelled appearance. Do not fear! There are all sorts of things we can do, many of them not involving rubbish collection, dole queues or checkouts! Most of the current cabinet
Oprah Winfrey and Stephen Fry:graduates in humanities subjects
graduated in PPE, a humanity, including our current Prime Minwith further revulsion then consider the more palatable celebrities and television personalities who shared our academic pursuit such as Stephen Fry or Oprah Winfrey (who somewhat predictably has a munication). Our number includes accomplished actors like Rowan Atkinson or David Mitchell and successful writers like Ian Hislop, ams: the man who fought our corner in his highly successful 'Hitchhikers Guide to The Galaxy' series by having a character exclaim: 'I hitched a lift! After all, with a degree in maths and another in astrophysics, it was either that or the dole queue again on Monday.' These examples and the countless others make it no less galling when forced to politely but pointlessly enquire what an Engineering student intends to be when they graduate, but at least grant us some scrap of hope that we are not wasting the next three (or indeed more) years. We have plenty to contribute to society and we always have done. Just try and have that memorised the next time you get that sad, pitying look from a 9-5 Physics student after you admit that after a heavy four hour morning you are now halfway through this week’s lectures.
'Down it fresher!' : The university initiation Sophie Tollet
Every year, as September rolls around, some half a million teenagers head off to university to become 'freshers'. However, as I sit
Fortnight' organised by the University, I can't help but notice out how odd the concept of Freshers seems to me. The basic idea is that, in adding alcohol into the mix of the – let's face it – utter strangers who only hours before have nervously introduced themselves to their new
form lasting friendships and feel instantly at home. Indeed, before I came to university, this nostalgic portrayal of 'Fresher's Week' was exactly what I expected. However, it seems I was unaware of certain more bizarre as-
pects of Freshers. Along with the mild homesickness buzzing in the back of my brain, the constant nervousness of being somewhere new and the sheer fear of saying the wrong thing, I found the entire two weeks extremely surreal. For me, the idea of getting drunk with
Freshers Drinking Facts Pints – taking just the male fresher population, an average of 6 pints a night are drunk throughout Fresher's Week means a grand total of 1,258,881 pints were drunk across university cities during freshers alone Spirits – the average female freshers student downed 34 measures of spirits during her Freshers meaning that females alone drank 7,133,659 spirit measures Shots – 14 shots were drunk per person on average in Freshers Week, or 5,874,778 slammers
Sobering Stats On average freshers admit to taking 10 paracetamol in freshers week. Meaning a staggering 262,267 packs of tablets were used nationwide in Freshers Week Up to one in three students are at serious risk of developing an alcohol related disease Elin Stone
strangers was particularly, well, strange. Indeed, meeting people whilst drunk can lead to horrifying levels of awkwardness when seeing them in the bright, sober light of the following day. I'm sure we've all experienced the awful moment when someone we met the previous night has forgotten either our name or even our very existence. Equally, I have found myself trying to match up to the levels drunk, which, unfortunately, only causes more nervousness and does not encourage the appearance of a comfortable and self-assured person. I have also found the personal information drunk people reveal to be both amusing, and (to use the word yet again) surreal. I now know, for instance, intimate details sure, had we not consumed large quantities of alcohol, they would have waited until at least a month of knowing me to reveal. Above all, however, I found myself constantly wondering when I would be able to call these acquaintances, who had days earlier been strangers, my friends. I do realise that, so far, I seem to have put a rather depressing spin on Freshers' Week. In fact, were I to be reading this article I expect I'd imagine the author to be miserable old hag. I feel I should, then, assure you that I really did the end of the two weeks not only with many, many more Facebook 'friends' but also with a couple of real life, actual people who I would describe as friends; this, I suppose was the point of the dizzying, confusing and decidedly bizarre introduction to University life.
10 redbrickpaper.co.uk
Redbrick
7th October 2011
Arts
Follow us on Twitter @Redbrickarts
The best things in life are free With his crusade against the arts and his drab, uninspired Tory perspective on life, David Cameron wants to stop you having fun. But Redbrick Arts have compiled a selection of the best free events that Birmingham has to offer to help brighten these austere times.
Spoken Word After Magritte
A play by Tom Stoppard
9th October, 2pm-6pm, The Old Rep Theatre
by Nedko Solakov
Exhibitions Dreams and Stories Until 4th November, The Drum
The Drum, Birmingham's leading purveyor of African, Asian and Caribbean art and culture, presents an original and unique exhibition by artists Leon Sparkes and Deborah Brogden.Their work is vibrant, detailed and free-flowing and has a positive and uplifting feel. It has a playful style and highlights their love for colour, pattern and shape.
Nedko Solakov
All in order, with exceptions
Until 17th November, Ikon This major exhibition of the work of Bulgarian-born artist Nedko Solakov is the first ever in the UK. His self-deprecating and often tongue in cheek work is being displayed as part of the Birmingham Comedy Festival, taking place from today until 16th October. It features, amongst other amazing works, a piece that involves inscriptions on and around fittings in the ladies and gents lavatories.
Some Domestic Incidents An Exhibition of New Painting from Britain Until 13th November, mac We all experience things in our homes that adversely affect our physical, psychological and emotional relationships with the places in which we live. For some, home is a place that is constantly oppressive and filled with melancholy, loneliness or misery – a site of entrapment, discomfort or abuse. Some Domestic Incidents presents works by seven artists from Britain that connect to the theme of domesticity and explore how normative relationships with homes can be changed or damaged.
Living My Life Shout Festival
3rd – 27th November, New Queen Elizabeth Hospital Living My Life is a touring photographic exhibition celebrating the lives of people who identify as transsexual, or are beginning to explore their gender identity. Collated by the Centre for HIV and Sexual Health, based in Sheffield, in partnership with TransBareAll, the candid portraits gently yet powerfully challenge any existing stereotypes.
Lenin in Russian Theatre and Literature by Michael Pushkin
20th October, 6pm The Old Rep Theatre
Part of the Rep's Autumn Extras 2011 is this reading of the seminal Stoppard's surreal comedy. The play begins with an astonished policeman looking through the window of a house where a group of people are posed in a bizarre, surreal tableau reminiscent of the paintings of Rene Magritte. Finding this suspicious, he calls in his inspector, and the beautifully farcical tale begins to unfold.
Michael Pushkin is Lecturer in Russian Literature at the University of Birmingham and was involved in Russian drama projects at Royal Court Theatre, London (2001) and in Moscow (2001-2004). He has published articles on the history of the Russian intelligentsia and on the modern poet Andrei Voznesensky.
Meet Nine Arches & Flarestack Poets
Queer Theology
12th October, 3pm-4pm Ikon
The Ikon Bookshop hosts a fantastic free event with the editors behind two of the region's best known independent presses: Nine Arches Press and Flarestack Poets. Both Nine Arches and Flarestack have an acclaimed reputation for publishing some of the most cutting edge and innovative poetry, with the University's creative darling Luke Kennard being a fixture on the Nine Arches roster.
A Talk on Oscar Wilde
Shout Festival
Monday 21 November, 7-8.30pm VEGed Out (B3 3JG) Polyamory, dark rooms, S&M and beyond... with the advent of Queer Theory and the rising confidence of the Queer Faith Community, a new way of looking at religion, called Queer Theology, has evolved. Instead of pleading for tolerance from the Church, Queer Theology simply asks, who are you to tell me that I'm bad? Part of Shout Festival and delivered by Rev Chris Dowd, pastor of Journey MCC and researching a doctorate on Queer Theology at
Rush Hour Blues Every Friday 5.30pm Symphony Hall Foyer
After a long week of solid studying, go along and unwind in the intimate, relaxing atmosphere of Symphony Hall's Level Three Bar and let the sensational sounds of Rush Hour Blues help you find that elusive Friday feeling. In association with Birmingham Jazz, the weekly event showcases an unfailingly impressive array of talent.
The Andy Hamilton Sessions Last Sunday of the month The Drum
Veteran saxophonist Andy Hamilton and The Blue Notes along with special guests are back on the last Sunday of the month. Join Andy for some cool jazz and the opportunity to buy a hot Caribbean Sunday lunch in the newly refurbished Frontiers Café Bar, with a medley of beautiful live music enhancing the atmosphere.
By Dr Ruth Robbins
12th October, 2pm-6pm, The Old Rep Theatre To accompany the Rep's run of the fantastically witty The Importance of Being Earnest (9 Sep 2011 – 22 Oct 2011), Ruth Robbins, Head of Cultural Studies and lecturer in Victorian literature at Leeds Metropolitan University, will be delivering a talk on Oscar Wilde. Robbins is also the author of a number of books which focus on the fin-de-siècle period, including Pater to Forster (2003) and Oscar Wilde (2011).
Imagining Intimacy
Music Folk For Free
Monthly Symphony Hall Foyer Moseley Folk, in association with Symphony Hall, present a regular contemporary folk music evening. Enjoy some of the best acts from across the Midlands for free. Each performance is held monthly on a Thursday, starting at 5.30pm and running until 7pm. See thsh.co.uk for more information on acts and dates. The event is supported by the Arts Council England.
Mid-day Mantra
Shout Festival
7th – 23rd November ARTicle Gallery
Monthly, Saturday lunchtime, 1 pm Symphony Hall Foyer
A photo installation that observes experimental physical encounters between blindfolded men. It asks what things dominate our first impressions of someone, what determines how we feel about someone, how we connect with other people and what is intimacy? The photography exhibition is open to view between 10am and 6pm.
Imagining Intimacy
A free series presenting music to uplift the spirit, supported by Arts Council England and Coutts Charitable Trust. Escape the hurly-burly of Britain's second city, as once a month. Sympthony Hall present outstanding Asian artists from the UK and the Indian subcontinent in relaxed, informal sessions. Check thsh.co.uk for listings.
Andy Hamilton
Tour The Art Bus
2nd December, 5pm-9pm mac, The Barber Institute, Ikon Gallery, the RBSA and Eastside Gallery Projects The Art Bus makes its triumphant return to celebrate 2011's Museums at Night. Hop aboard the Art Bus to take advantage of free guided tours of these veritable pillars of Birmingham's culture. They're even offering free refreshments to further sweeten the deal.
Redbrick
Editors – Alexander Blanchard & Lexie Wilson
Arts 11
7th October 2011 www.redbrickpaper.co.uk
Previews
Jason Byrne at Town Hall
James Kinsey & Danny Murphy Critics
Jason Byrne is a remarkable man. Over the past two years he has sold out venues across the world, hospitalising audiences through excessive laughter armed with, let's face it, two jokes: the 'cocked eyed one' and the 'knee injury on the toilet incident'.
The expostulating Dubliner is back with renewed energy in yet another sell-out tour, Cirque du Byrne. Byrne did not disappoint the hardcore following who rammed themselves to the rafters at Town Hall. With flamboyant, chaotic energy he tripped, faltered and barged his way through a two hour set with a portfolio of material that
would have barely filled a Post-it note. Byrne opened the show attired from toe-tip to top hat in velvet, whilst music from 2001: A Space Odyssey clanged its way through the Hall. The lights then went up and he embarked on an exhausting River Dance routine that looked as technically proficient as a jig performed by an upper class twit crossed with Anne Widdecombe. After some panting and expletives, Byrne spent the remainder of the first half bantering with the audience. There is no 'real' content here and fans may well be disappointed by the lack of traditional joke craft. Whilst we receive occasional anecdotes, ranging in theme from growing up in Ireland to draping his pale white frame across Australian beaches, one cannot help but question the extent to which the
audience controls the comedy. To his credit, he possesses the uncanny skill of coercing the lunatics of the audience to create jokes for him. There was a wonderful moment when describing how the 'deaf community' clap, with the timing of Morcambe and Wise, a man bellowed, 'sort out your mic, we can't hear you'. The second half was much of the same; ridiculous opening followed by audience interaction. It is easy to criticise a man who doesn't seem to have any original material. Yet as unrehearsed as the act appears to be, he is the master of his imperfect act. The show's title says it all; he is the circus master manipulating us into his material. By doing so he has created one of the wildest and funniest shows around.
Beauty and the Beast at The Hippodrome Rebekah McDermott Critic
Many of you will have seen Darren Aronofsky's film Black Swan and may have been struck by the dark intensity in which the ballet world is portrayed, with the sheer strength and passion of perfectly representing another world being at the heart of what is important. There can easily be an argument to be made that, in theatre particularly, words are not the most effective way of communicating and that through the arts such as dancing, music and costume emotions are made most clear. Being a folk tale, everyone recognises the story of Beauty and Beast. What director David Bintley does is enhance what the audi-
ence already knows, veering from comedy to tragedy with a natural, captivating liquidity. An intricate backdrop finished with gilded, gold draperies, oak doors, birds of prey and a throne which seemingly moves by its own accord charms the audience and does not disappoint. The music, composed by Glenn Buhr is particularly effective, reflecting both humour and character through the use of leitmotifs. These dancers are able to move gracefully in elaborate, extremely heavy costumes and although masks may hide emotion in some cases, this is deliberate. The relationship between Belle and the Beast is, at first, so menacing because we can only see his emotion through the way he moves. She is
Birmingham Footnotes: Don't Be A Dickhead at The Beorma Bar
Georgia House Critic
The Comedy Society may have a new name, The Birmingham Footnotes, but their stand-up franchise Don't Be A Dickhead lives on. It is always a worry to hear that half of the performers at a show have never done stand-up before, but in keeping with the show's title, there seemed to be a collective decision by the audience not to be a dickhead about this. The show consisted of a juxtaposition between veteran performers and first years without any previous stand-up experience. On the whole, the freshers were surprisingly confident. Many of them had obviously thought carefully about a style of delivery but, generally, they lacked the strong content of the senior performers.
As with any novice stand-ups, there were some awkward silences, and to be honest, a few of the acts could have only been salvaged if they'd given an impromptu performance of Gilbert and Sullivan's seminal masterpiece The Mikado. However, the fresher who really stood out from the rest was George Court, who showed off his wide selection of political impressions. At first the audience was uncertain, but by the time he was onto Lady Thatcher he had them well and truly on his side. The frankly disappointing female presence in the show was offset by the two brilliant compéres for the night, Matt Saull and Chazz Redhead. They were not only very funny but their quirky acts made the night flow with ease. Equally, some upbeat poems from Michael Brownlee along with some tragically wonderful verse from Leo West were a great addition to the evening, and it was a nice change of pace and refreshing to see more than one type of comedic medium displayed. It is apparent that The Footnotes have not only maintained their exisiting pool of funny performers, well established within their society, but with the addition of some new and enthusiastic talent, it should be expected that their next Don't Be A Dickhead night will be even more successful.
A Brush With The East The Barber Institute 7th – 30th October Free
Birmingham Royal Ballet: Autumn Glory The Hippodrome 7th & 8th October £16
Comedy
Roy Smiljanic constantly vulnerable and pure, with no ulterior motive other than to save her father. One may feel cheated when the beast is revealed to be the prince. If Belle is only concerned with image then surely her integrity is impaired. Yet she seems bewildered and searches for her ugly
beast. This is what made the passion of the dancers so convincing. Of course they are brilliant dancers and of course they have talent. But they need to bring the audience along with them through relating to a basic human concept; image isn't everything. And they did this perfectly.
Rachmaninov By Candlelight at Symphony Hall
Alice Grimes Critic
Tonight's concert was hosted by Ex Cathedra, a Birmingham based musical company whose choral performances have brought them international critical acclaim. Their artistic director Jeffrey Skidmore is well known for pioneering new music and neglected choral works and is actively involved in promoting music in the city. They were accompanied by pianist Steven Osborne whose recordings of Rachmaninov's twenty four preludes in 2009 was awarded 'Editor's Choice' in numerous publications including Gramophone and The Daily Telegraph. Ex Cathedra performed Rachmaninov's Vespers, which depicts the Russian Orthodox all-night vigil ceremony and is considered
to be, not just Rachmaninov's greatest musical achievement, but also that of the Russian Orthodox Church. The religious connotations behind the melodic line works only to heighten the profound and emotive nature of the piece. This coupled with the array of candelabras created a celestial atmosphere within which the audience could enjoy the soaring collective voice of the choir. Dispersed between these bursts of religious chant, Osborne performed some of Rachmaninov's preludes. However, the dichotomy between the two felt rather jarring as it would have been preferable for the transfer between pieces to be seamless. It was difficult to settle into the tranquil swells of the choir following quick staccato notes from the piano. Osborne, however, was faultless and equally, the individual voices which formed the choir blended effortlessly to form moments which were transcendental and truly exquisite. Importantly, the camaraderie between the choir and the pianist was impressive. Skidmore successfully acted as the bridge between both these branches of Rachmaninov's musical brilliance. Perhaps if the Preludes and Vespers were separated by an interval the performance would have proved even more triumphant.
Legally Blonde The Alexandra 7th – 15h October £20
Festivals
Birmingham Comedy Festival (7th-16th October) The annual Birmingham Comedy Festival kicks off again this Friday. A mix of big names and 'up-and-comers', out.
SHOUT Festival (7th
October – 30th November) Birmingham's 'Festival of Queer Culture' is back for a third year with it's vibrant mix talks. Redbrick coverage starts this week.
12 redbrickpaper.co.uk
7th October 2011
Music
Redbrick
Pete Townshend to give 'Can John Peelism survive the internet?' speech at Radio Festival www.nme.com/news
80s Jukebox
Stefanie De Lucia Critic
Duran Duran – Rio The frantic beginning of Rio is nicely complimented by the low tones of Simon Le Bon. The best part, of course, is the chorus where we are introduced to the somewhat promiscuous Rio from, err, Rio. It tends to be one of those songs though, where you sort of put up with the verses just to get to the chorus so you can sing your little heart out. Nena – 99 Luftballons Who says the German language is ugly? No one after hearing this 80s summer hit by Nena. It's got this fantastic electro introduction before your hands rise into the air as if they have a mind of their own and shake about from side to side. UB40 – Red Red Wine Reggae was never the same after UB40 sang about drinking a classy glass of Merlot to forget a lost love. Which, granted, sounds a bit more classy than lighting up a joint or downing snakebite. Madonna – Like A Virgin This Madonna song really epitomises the 80s, once you get over the fact that she sounds like an 11year old singing about her lack of virginity.
10 Reasons to love Gary Barlow Critic
No one could really have predicted that Gary Barlow would have joined the new X Factor panel, let alone capture the hearts of the nation. However, if you're still not convinced here are ten reasons you should consider. 1.
cause Gary has proved to age like the fat one from Take That, no one will ever stick him behind a piano to hide his girth again.
2. He's Northern. Everyone has always known that with being Northern came an inherent right to be a bit cool. 3. He knows what he's talking about. Gary has been around for a long time (he is 40 after all, but the less said about that the better) and he knows the industry. 4. He doesn't show much emotion. Whether he's telling someone they were amazing or that they had made his ears bleed with their horrifying rendition of one of his own, much loved songs, his face will
Album reviews 6 The Subways
very rarely change. 5. He and Robbie are friends again. Everyone loves a good bromance but there have been few more dramatic in our lifetime than that of Gary and Robbie. 6. He's a DILF. A man who's good with kids, enough said. 7. He writes hit singles. Love or hate Take That, no one can resist a few lines of Relight My Fire, not even Robbie Williams as he proved when he returned to Gary and the rest of the lads.
Cyndi Lauper – Time After Time
10. He just seems like a nice guy. And what other reason could you need for loving someone? Disagree? Let us know your deepest thoughts on Barlow via Twitter.
The Hunter
Money and Celebrity
Andrew Pollard Critic
Sludge metal at its best returns
Joseph Fuller Critic
The Subways, who rose to prominence in 2005 with singles such as 'Oh Yeah' and 'Rock & Roll Queen' showed much early prom-
There's a reason that we all know this one back to front. The best thing about it is the sound tease that is Cyndi Lauper. Throughout the verses she sings 'time after-' before carrying on about how sad she is. This makes the chorus even more climatic as you clench your
soaring, anthemic choruses, drawing lineage from bands such as Nirvana and Pixies and, as noted by the entirety of the rock press, Ash. The band were poised for allconquering success, but following frontman Billy Lunn's need for throat surgery and an inter-band relationship crisis (Lunn split with
For more content, including reviews of Blink 182 and Maroon 5 visit: www.redbrickpaper.co.uk/ music
Cooper) the momentum leading into their excellent Butch Vig-produced second album All Or Nothing seemed somewhat slack. Now, here we are, six years on from that debut album, with album number three: Money and Celebrity. Money and Celebrity doesn't reinvent the wheel for The Subways, instead offering another set
Contact us: music@redbrickpaper.co.uk Twitter – @redbrickmusic Facebook – Redbrick Music
9. He's not Simon Cowell. Gary has replaced the vacuous black heart of the music industry and for that we must all be grateful.
8Mastodon
Men Without Hats – Safety Dance Safety Dance is, of course, incomplete without the video but the crazy electro paired with the somewhat pained, baritone voice of lead singer Ivan, just about works. Fantastic song for roboting. Statistically, the average person robots up to three times a year. So you might as well.
8. He went all the way up Mount Kilimanjaro just for Comic Relief. It's a very long way to go, you know.
of solid, polished rock songs. The band seem incredibly comfortable in their own skin, with songs such as album opener 'It's A Party' and the chugging 'Popdeath' and 'Money' sounding like something rock radio in the 90s would have happily put on heavy rotation. The snarling guitars give way to songs with soft underbellies, providing both headbanging riffs and foot-tapping melody. Not every song is as successful, however, 'Celebrity' aims to be a cutting take on the culture of celebrity, but ends up coming across as petty and cliYou' – written with Hexes' frontCarter – is simply forgettable. The Subways have presented us with a solid rather than sensational third effort, but those who have already been converted to their distorted melodies should Sounds like: Ash, Nirvana.
of cleverly constructed chaos. While The Hunter is less grandiose in its ambitions than previous albums, Mastodon manage to walk the line between innovation and needless tampering. The result is a musical piece. As a whole, the album sounds deep and powerful, the production is polished yet raw. Its opening is surprisingly straightforward but by no means ineffective, full of classic sounding riffs and swagpumping stadium rock. Yet, as we move down the track list, we hear the more familiar sound of cascading guitar notes, frantic drum rolls and unusual time signatures. Where The Hunter triumphs though, is in the way Mastodon have embraced their own duality, cality with high-octane fury. This leaves a hybrid; punchy in its deencapsulated by the ethereal vocals
and soaring solos. These work together to create an immersive feel of something beyond our world. That's not to say The Hunter is without its faults. While the vast majority of the band's previous albums have been conceptual, The Hunter is not. Although this leads to a refreshing break from their more progressive inclinations, it sometimes leaves the listener feeling lost. The lyrics, on more than one occasion, feel more like an afterthought than a revelation. There's no way you listen to Mastodon for the poetry but I felt titles such as 'Stargasm' and 'Octopus Has No Friends' bordered on ridiculous and detracted from their credibility. Mastodon's latest offering gives us everything we love about them while remaining sharp and repeated listening will be rewarded with new appreciation. With a tender heart and a snarling exterior The Hunter may not be to everyone's appetite, but if you can Sounds like: Black Sabbath mixed with Metallica and elements of Avenged Sevenfold.
Redbrick
Editors – Tamara Roper & William Franklin
Music 13
7th October 2011 www.redbrickpaper.co.uk
Single Reviews
Album Reviews 4 Example
SebastiAn Embody
Playing in the Shadows
Music Diary 7th – 13th Friday 7th Wolf Gang O2 Academy
Saturday 8th The Kooks O2 Academy Nathan Lightman Critic
Josh Holder Critic
Example returns with his third studio album Playing In The Shadows, which sees him abandon the sinking ship of electro-pop, instead choosing to commandeer the bass heavy, dubstep craze that has topped the charts in recent months. It is an obvious progression, but mostly it leaves the album feeling uninspired and instantly forgettable. In the months previous to the album's release, Example ensured we all knew what to expect, an album full of uplifting rave music. Playing In The Shadows lives up to such modest expectations,
to burst with such music. Even though the Fulham-born rapper's move into dubstep places less emphasis on his lyrics, there are far too many shameful rhymes here for an artist who found his initial success as a garage MC. On open' he raps, 'Just sitting here chilling in the Batcave, listening to Nick Cave, last night was a sick rave!' 'Never Had A Day' is the album's standout track, with its tantalising synth build-up that erupts into a fast-paced drum and bass beat. Unfortunately the album fails thunderous songs broken up by plodding crooning on 'Microphone and Anything', where Example
shows us his emotional side and monotonously sings about loving and losing. Predominantly losing. Playing In The Shadows ultimately lives up to the promise of providing uplifting music to party to. However, the poor quality of the will only be remembered for the handful of standout tracks that will be released as singles in the forthcoming months. For Example's sake, we can only hope that the mainstream dubstep craze is soon over and a more promising bandwagon arrives for him to jump on.
Sounds like: Nero.
Essential Albums
In delivering a summery, chilled-out and frankly normal track, SebastiAn demonstrates the full range of his talent. It's great to see he is back to making good music, after delving into oddities such as 'Dog' for a while (if you haven't heard it, check it out, it's weird enough to be interesting). Whilst he has never threatened to rival the giants of French electro house, such as his Ed Banger labelmates Daft Punk and Justice, both the vocal and instrumentation seem to draw inspiration from the former. In fact, this could almost be a Daft Punk B-side, but that, unfortunately for the jolly little Frenchman, is as good as it gets. This is a solid tune that you would hum along to if it came on the radio, but forget shortly afterwards; it lacks the je ne sais quoi that's needed to take run-of-the-mill French house into the stratosphere.
Joshua Radin O2 Academy
Sunday 9th Staind HMV Institute
Monday 10th
Cloud Control & Big Deal Rainbow Warehouse
Tuesday 11th Ed Sheeran HMV Institute
Wednesday 12th Keri Hilson O2 Academy
Thursday 13th
Bombay Bicycle Club O2 Academy
Live Review
Metronomy HMV Institute 27/09/2011
#17
Nirvana Nevermind (1991) Josh Carvell Critic
Released on 24th September 1991, Nirvana's second release Nevermind into the mainstream consciousness, bringing unheard levels of fame to an alternative rock band, ousting Michael Jackson from the top of the Billboard charts. album is undisputed. Nevermind led critics to label Nirvana the band that championed 'generation X' and front man Kurt Cobain as the voice of it, as well as leader of a counter-culture. One doesn't have to look far to see the extent of Nir20th anniversary edition of Nevermind lies in the top 10 of the UK charts, serving as a testament to the longevity of this masterpiece. bum, 'Smells like Teen Spirit' is teenage generation, picked up as a call to revolution and the an-
them of apathy. The juxtaposition of Cobain's quiet, dreary vocals and angst-ridden screams proves to be a powerful combinaNirvana's softer, more melodic side is seen through Nevermind's second single 'Come As You Are', where Cobain's psychedelic riff echoes throughout the song, as listeners are treated to a dreamy, haunting melody, given an unintentional bite by Cobain's now ironic statement, 'I swear that I don't have a gun'. Nirvana's gritty, raw side is seen once more through tracks 'In Bloom', 'Territorial Pissings' and 'Stay Away', where the band demonstrate a punk-like ferocBlack Flag. Drummer Dave Grohl's pulsating beats demonstrate the ability behind the kit that brought the Foo Fighters frontman to the forefront of rock music. The controversial, iconic artwork depicting a baby swim-
ming towards a dollar bill on a hook, is an enduring image of Nirvana, and is as memorable as the songs themselves. Simply put, Nevermind is nothing short of legendary and arguably the best album of the 90s. Rarely since has an album been as mercial success paving the way for other alternative bands to break into the mainstream and breathe life into the rock scene. Nevermind will forever be synonymous with the troubled life of Cobain, with analysis of Kurt's lyrics inevitable. However, he asserted that second', and it is the music that is enduring. Nirvana have made a grunge masterpiece that has aged well, and will continue to serve as a reminder of the genius of the band that changed the face of rock.
Sounds like: Pearl Jam
Tamara Roper Music Editor
You know when you're stuck behind the really tall, hairy person at a gig? They're all up in your grill and you can't see or move. That was me, at Metronomy. Normally, I'd be narked off no end, and dismiss both the band and the gig as not worth it. With Metronomy, though, I didn't mind. The four piece were rightfully nominated for a Mercury Music Prize for their third album The English Riviera. They didn't win, but based upon their performance at the HMV Institute Library, they could well have done. The album has received the critical acclaim that a band, who have been making music for over ten years, deserve, and the gig, which had sold out, was rammed. Often at concerts the audience will toe tap and head nod politely, no matter how inclined to dance they are. Metronomy, again, proved an exception. People went for it – their most recent hit 'The Bay' shook the crowd from the centre, and 'The Look' and 'Corinne' sent little frenzied yelps around the undeniably squashy basement. Playing to a backdrop of their
bizarre yet artistically fantastic single covers, the band appeared to be enjoying themselves. Bass player Gbenga Adelekan in particular seemed to be doing almost as much bopping as the crowd. Performances like this make money well spent. The 89 place chart difference between Metronomy's sophomore and latest albums suggest a lot; their fan base has grown, and with any luck, so will their success.
Redbrick's Turkey of the Week
Nicola Roberts (feat. Metronomy) – I
7th October
14
Redbrick
Editor – Joshua Lindsey
Technology
Co-founder and former CEO of Apple, Steve Jobs,
Apple press conference reveals new iPhone 4S Joshua Lindsey Technology Editor
On Tuesday, Apple held a press conference to announce their lattion high, many expected Apple to -
ence since Steve Jobs' retirement
4S to make its debut, to cheers from
Cook took to the stage to cover all of Apple's properties, including the launch of iOS 5 and the iPod Touch,
The biggest announcement was Siri, an intuitive voice recognition feature that allows users to ask real-
will now be an 8GB white model
directions home or scheduling ap-
Also announced were some tweaks
This personal assistant will be included exclusively on every iPhone 4S device, which is set to feature
nearly an hour for the new iPhone
the iPad 2's A5 processor, a point and shoot rivalling 8MP Camera, 2x faster CPU and improved dual core er have seen a redesigned iPhone 5, price drops across the board on Apple products, such as a $99 iPhone 4, the new device is only the start
The iPhone 4S
FitFinder was 'a bit of an accident' Apple ‘genius’ Steve Jobs dies aged 56 FitFinder's Rich Martell tells Redbrick of his infamous site and his latest project Spottd Stuart Ritchie Technology Editor
Steve Jobs had been suffering from pancre-
Almost overnight, FitFinder took the student world by storm, providing stu-
Jobs helped make personal computers commercially viable, saw the potential in the computer mouse, revolutionised the music industry through the iPod, and changed the
Rich Martell's FitFinder was an innovative location-based networking website wards it, yet universities themselves did
was also the creative force behind the iPhone US president Barack Obama has said ‘Steve was among the greatest of American innovators – brave enough to think differently, bold enough to believe he could change the world,
another distraction and began blocking third year student reading Computer SciUCL lead the anti-FitFinder movement, ing him and forcing him to remove the an internet phenomenon and threw him Redbrick about the initial conception of FitFinder, the troubles that followed with his university and the company that was born
sparked one night when I was studying to set up a website where people could Rich told us that he got the idea from the text messages he used to send to his friends informing them of good lookwebsite was put together in a matter of 'I set it live at nine o'clock and when I came back at two o'clock there were two warning from my hosting company as I sand users After four weeks there were The success of FitFinder caused a backlash from many universities, not blocked FitFinder but they didn't block
Rich Martell The unwanted publicity created by Rich pulsion, at which point he realised 'it wasn't meant to be anything big, it was a bit of an accident so I decided to take The notoriety of FitFinder became a launchpad for Floxx, Rich's new compasocial networking and goes beyond merely posting the location of attractive people interact around a location, how they get chatting to people they don't Floxx's services to gather information and learn about how people behave at from this, including some weird stuff, for example we're really popular in Saudi Arabia! Probably because there is less Spottd launches at the end of Octothe technology Rich has been working
Universities began blocked FitFinder but they didn't block porn!
Technology Editor
Visionary inventor and co-founder of the
Joshua Lindsey
For those who do not remember Fit-
Joshua Lindsey
by Doug Richards, one of the dragons Dragon's Den Richards provided a new impetus to the company, offering Floxx investment, what he had learnt, Martell said, 'just get a prototype out there and let people use ommend going to your friends and fam-
In a statement Apple said they have ‘lost a visionary and creative genius, and the world Bill Gates, the former boss of Microsoft who worked with Steve Jobs has said, ‘For those of us lucky enough to get to work with him, Jobs was a father of four and whilst staying being protective of his private life was never Along with Apple he also was credited as the executive producer on Toy Story after becomsaid ‘America lost a genius who will be remembered with Edison and Einstein, and whose ideas will shape the world for genera-
"Universities blocked FitFinder but they didn't block porn"
7th October 2011 www.redbrickpaper.co.uk
Redbrick
Editor – Joshua Lindsey
my:brum - an essential student app rently studying Computer Science and is in
Students can then choose an offer that appeals to them and head to
unique application provides the user with a collection of useful information about
what's nearby. my:brum doesn't yet have a
15
Preview: Tom Armstrong Writer
nights n u m most ex'free stuff'. Companies such as
Andrew Spencer Writer
freebies and offers are handed to twice as much are pushed through our letter-boxes. These often end looked. With the mountain of ingood stuff. This was the inspiration for developer and University of Birmingham student Daniel Cecil's my:brum. Dan is cur-
Birmingham Rep Theatre and Meal2Go. com are already clients for my:brum and many more are joining this portal for information. Dan told us his favourite part of the app is the my:nightout sec-
The venues for each night are and map locations. like to see grow is the free stuff'. display a list of offers for that day.
Twitter pages are growing in popularity. A recent cross campus marketing campaign helped this. Curcompare to the broad range found
'You can look to see drinks offers and call a taxi from one place' but it is likely that as more and the special and free offer selection will grow. The vision for expansion is greater than this though. Dan suggests that there could be additional information about housing for students and perhaps even seasonal functionalhost Valentine's Day messages. release iPhone, iPod and iPad verup many more possibilities. The freebies and offers are limited right now but the fact that this students is a unique selling point. The my:brum app is free on Android Marketplace now.
At the end of September a demo of sorts was released for the upcoming map and the Rush game mode. The map featured in the Beta isn't particularly representative of the very linear and containing none of the large-scale vehicle craziness that the franchise usually does chaotic infantry action is a lot of fun. The sound design is incredtoo. There are a number of fairly hilarious bugs and glitches though nothing that detracts too much from the overall experience. PC gamers were given a brief chance to play one of the larger maps was generally very positive. The
Conquest mode and the more linear Rush mode which is focused around progressively capturing or defending a series of objectives. A range of both ground and air well as over 50 weapons and gadgets. The Open Beta is available until the 10th October and is well the 28th. When pre-ordering the pack (titled Back to Karkand and set for release three weeks after launch on PS3 and a week after Based on the limited experiing to bet that in between being shot in the head over and over again by the same furious twelve ing to be pretty fun.
16 Cool Hand Luke
The Debt Eleanor Dodson
-
Jessica, how are you dealing with all the attention and how do you keep yourself grounded after being labelled 'Hollywood's bright young thing'?
The Debt doesn't seem to follow a traditional A-Z narrative, how did that come about?
Sarah Coe Critic
JM: The Big Friendly Giant
Jessica Chastain: Indiana Jones
-
The BFG What was the appeal of the project? Helen Mirren: Great story, really interesting story, lovely role,
Anything from your own past that has come back to haunt you?
John Madden (director): -
Fantastic Mr Fox, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Matilda
HM:
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Natasha Lavender Dead Island
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Deathly Hallows II
Rise of the... Apes
#4
#2 Harry Potter
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Part 2
1
The Deathly Hallows: -
Super 8
#
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Super 8 nies Park
E.T.
Jaws
#3
Submarine
The Inbetweeners
Submarine -
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#5
Caribbean
Pirates of the
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The GooJurassic Submarine
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2011
Reviews
The Debt
Johnny English Reborn
Patrick Scott
Reborn
Eleanor Dodson
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Johnny
English The Debt
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Johnny English Reborn -
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Batman Begins'
Johnny English !
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Pick up next week's issue for an interview with the cast!
!
Jurassic Park
Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy evieve Taylor Sanders
GenIsidore
For the genre…
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Three Days of the Condor
For the story…
Smiley's Jurassic Park -
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Tinker, Tailor...
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Tinker, Tailor The Spy Who Came In From The Cold
as Tinker, Tailor...
Patrick Scott
Spy Game For more… People Tinker, Tailor...
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Tinker, Tailor
!
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Tailor
Tinker, Jurassic Park
Triple Cross
Tailor...
Tinker, -
Park -
Park
Park
Jaws
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Jurassic
Park
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18 redbrickpaper.co.uk
Redbrick
7th October 2011
Television
Alex Bentley relives the glory days of Dinner Ladies Read more on www.redbrickpaper.co.uk
Dr. Christian talks bagpipes and boozing tions there. How do you cope with the pressure of being on Embarrassing Bodies? You always feel like your clinical skills are on test to the nation and we don't know what we're going to get. The advice we give is what comes out of our heads at the time – there's no briefing on what patients we'll be seeing. It's like doing your medical finals all over again but on TV. What's the best part of your job? I'd say it's being able to influence so many people and having a platform to deliver a message – no other doctor in the country has that privilege. It's hugely exciting, and also daunting. It's a wonderful opportunity to really do some good.
Dr. Christian weighs up the nation's health issues on and off screen Charlotte Lytton
over and over again which keeps it interesting.
Dr. Christian Jessen shot to fame as the star of Channel 4's Embarrassing Bodies in 2007. In this exclusive interview, he talks to Redbrick about his experience of being a student, working in Uganda and what he does to unwind...
What has been your career highlight to date? It would have to be winning a BAFTA for Embarrassing Bodies. To have a show recognised like that is just amazing. It's very hard to name just one, though – there have been so many brilliant things.
Television Editor
What is your schedule like at the moment? It varies hugely: I do two days a week in clinic, and the other days vary enormously. At the moment, there's a lot of filming and also corporate work, doing radio interviews or charitable awareness campaigns – a big range of stuff. That's something I really love about my job – it's just fantastic. I'm never doing the same thing
You used to work in Kenya and Uganda. How does your work nowadays compare? Life in those countries is hard. Kids die, there are no facilities, but now I work in a private practice where every drug is available to me. It's a very different world. It still influences my work now and how I feel about the condi-
What do you do to relax? I'm a gym freak actually. I exercise a lot and I find that very therapeutic. I'm a big music fan and I trained as a classical musician so I listen to a lot of music. I'm a bit of an old man inside really! What was your experience of university like? Bloody awful, I hated it. I thought medicine was really badly taught, some of the consultants clearly didn't want to be there. At the time, I said, 'God, I'm going to make sure I never ever get like this and I'll inspire young people to learn medicine' because it's actually a very interesting subject. And what about the social side of student life? I went to UCL so I had the whole of London to play with – it was great! I'm a Londoner born and bred but I'd been away at boarding school for most of my life so university was really the first time
I was back in London and going out doing things. That made it all worthwhile, I have to say.
I have a platform to deliver a message – no other doctor has that privilege Do you have any secret talents? I can play the bagpipes quite well. I learnt them when I was at school – not many people know that! You are open about your sexuality – do you think others in the spotlight should be too? It's a tricky one – I think honesty is always the best approach but that doesn't mean you need to wave flags loudly and shout about it. I am a doctor and my sexuality has absolutely nothing to do with it. What are your thoughts about student drinking? Honestly, I would say when you're a student enjoy yourself as a student and don't worry about things like that. The truth is, the vast majority don't do any damage and once they stop being students and get it out of their system they calm down. When they leave university, they'll have learned from their mistakes and that's the best way to go. What health message would you like to tell the nation? Take an active interest in your body – learn about where your lumps and bumps are. It's incredibly important for everyone to be body aware.
Jeremy Kyle Moments Jenna Kirby Writer
5 – 'Body Art' – A tattoo enthusiast – who hilariously had his name changed to King Of Ink Land Body Art The Extreme Ink Ite – loved the show enough to have a Jeremy Kyle tattoo on the back of his head. Talk about dedication. 4 – 'Envelope-gate' – After one disgruntled guest hurled an envelope at Kyle's head, the clip became an online sensation, and now has over a hundred remixed versions on YouTube. 3 – 'Mad Dog Deon' – What. Was. He. Thinking. I don't think anyone could watch this without feeling huge pity for the girlfriend of the idiot who basically got a bad Halloween mask tattooed on his face. 2 – 'My husband slept with my daughter' – Yes, this family are as dysfunctional as they sound, as one naughty groom was accused of having an affair with his step daughter. Cue a huge slanging match and some of the funniest high-pitched screaming I've ever heard. 1 – 'White Couple Have Black Baby' – Kudos to the woman who tried to convince her white husband she hadn't had an affair, even though their baby was clearly mixed race. This led to one of the best lines of the entire show: “I have to be honest with you: that baby's black.”
TV period dramas: Truly great or out of date? Sarah Pullen says TRULY GREAT
Russell Webb says OUT OF DATE
We are a nation hooked on period dramas. And why shouldn't we be? The term applies to such a broad spectrum of shows that there is something to suit almost everyone. It might be the latest Jane Austen adaptation or the new series of Mad Men, but it's our fascination with the past that has us glued to our television screens. Some period dramas indulge our nostalgia for times gone by, while others force us to see the past without the rose-tinted glasses we're accustomed to. But regardless of the themes, era or genre, period dramas, like any other good television programmes, offer us a temporary escape from everyday life. While few dramas are completely accurate representations of bygone
As a television enthusiast, I love to see new programmes commissioned for viewing. Unfortunately, I cannot say that I am terribly thrilled by the arrival of a second series of Downton Abbey, a period drama set in the Edwardian era. On basic knowledge of the series, it begins just after the announcement of the First World War and has a fantastic cast led by the brilliant Maggie Smith, but this is as far as my interest goes. There are no two ways about it: Edwardian society was dull. The premise of the first series was what would happen to the fictional estate of Grantham, whilst the character Lady Mary tries to find a suitor. I find it very difficult to summon any real enthusiasm to sit and watch an hour's worth of characters that have a main concern of 'did I behave appropriately in front of that gentleman?',
the past and help bring it to life. This is a considerable feat, I know only too well as a history student. Another reason that many period dramas are so successful is because -
tations of, or are based on, classic novels. The plot is already there and is good enough to have stood the test of time – a solid foundation for any cast and crew. Their job is then to translate rather than to create, meaning that while the end product might not always be fantastic, it is unlikely to be terrible. It is also through period dramas that many classic novels remain part of the fabric of our nation's culture. Not many people have read Pride and Prejudice but most remember Colin Firth's portrayal of the novel's hero, Mr Darcy, in the 1995 BBC mini-series. Whilst period dramas are rarely edgy and innovative, this doesn't mean that they don't make for great television. There is a reason for our infatuation with the genre, and it shows no signs of slowing. Beth Richardson
or 'can I really take control of this grand estate?'. These concerns are utterly mundane and completely out of touch with the issues that normal people face. The potential for a show in this period is enormous; unfortunately, I believe that the producers have chosen the wrong class of characters, meaning that most viewers can't relate to them. The Grantham Estate is something that people can only dream of owning. I would much prefer to watch a programme that depicted the life of a middle or working class family that maybe worked on the estate, or were completely separate from it. This would be a much more inclusive and interesting programme to watch. I can accept that to some people the costuming and lifestyle of British society in a different era could be classed as entertaining and of interest. However, I for one would much rather be left to my panel shows.
Redbrick
Television 19
7th October 2011 www.redbrickpaper.co.uk
Editor – Charlotte Lytton
Kiefer Sutherland has announced that the script for show 24 will soon be completed.
National treasure Stephen Fry is set to appear in a new Victorian comedy alongside David Mitchell and Robert Webb.
Jessie J will be a judge for BBC singing contest The Voice. She will mentor participants when the show airs in 2012.
The over 25s – X Factor's most controversial category Ellie Pitt Critic
'Judges' houses' is arguably the most crucial stage of the X Factor competition, full of the twists and drama we love the show for. And Sunday night's installment was certainly no disappointment to its millions of viewers. Louis Walsh has been the subject of much online trashing after originally putting through what suited to pantomime than the UK's largest singing competition. There was Kitty Brucknell (this year's Katie Waissel) starring as the villain, Johnny Robinson as the dame and Goldie Cheung in a bizarre comic role. The only plausible character put through was Jonjo Kerr.
Luckily Goldie, the biggest joke of the show, whose dancing was almost as bad as her singing, saw the light and walked, not wanting to damage her reputation. Samantha Brookes, who can actually sing, replaces her. The over 25s category has long been regarded as the ineffectual, dud group, and this year the producers seem desperate to ditch its dull image and enlist a bunch of caricatures instead of talented singers. We all know that the music industry is dominated by young people, and this was lisa, who branded girl band The Estrelles as 'old fashioned.' They are 21 and 26.
In fact, the only winner to ever emerge from the over 25s category was Steve Brookstein, who entered the charts at a shameful number 193 two years after he won the contest in 2004. He has been the running joke of X Factor ever since his almighty fall from grace so many years ago. All four of the current over 25 competitors have the worst odds to win at the bookies. But does this mean that the older talent? If there's no belief in the category, they shouldn't have one at all. But then that could be seen as age discrimina-
tion, and the show claims to seek people desperate for one last shot at fame. So who's keeping the category alive? Well, 27 year old Olly Murs came second in 2009 and has enjoyed chart success since his appearance on the show. But he is a rare exception in a sea of failed and embarrassing contestants. After Luke Lucas, 16, cracked on Sunday night's show, Gary Barlow has been reported as saying that the show needs to stop putting children through. But with the X Factor USA's age limit 12, this is certainly unlikely to happen anytime soon. And if the industry professionals know that old fashioned acts won't make it, is it really the lower age limit that needs capping?
Previews: Our look at the week's hottest shows Steps Reunion Charlotte Goodwin Critic
dancing pop group Steps have met together to discuss the turmoil they all experienced before and after their split in 2001. And with other bands reforming to critical acclaim, it was only going to be a matter of time before Steps thought about a possible future and moved away from the rootin' tootin' 90s image we all knew and loved.
The Secret Circle Sarah Wheldon Critic
First days at school (or even university) should always be as exciting as they are for the characters of a supernatural teen thriller. The Secret Circle, the latest American series to combine the paranormal with the highs and lows of high school drama, follows Cassie, who moves to a small town in Washington to live with her grandmother.
Merlin Eliott Rhodes Critic
Merlin came back with a bang this week as everyone's second-favourite boy-wizard once again plies his trade in a kingdom living in fear of witchcraft. The-all-too-familiar, but never tiresome plot line draws parallels to many classic pre-pubescent magical tales, namely the Harry Potter series, and Sabrina the Teenage Witch. This week we found out where the new series is heading after the fantastic end to the last season, ty-
Steps Reunion, the band reveal their views surrounding the shock departure of Claire Richards and Ian 'H' Watkins. A decade later, emotions are still running high, especially among Lisa, Faye and Lee who had no idea the split was to come. It is no wonder these three band members need their questions answering. dominating the charts, we are told the tale of how the shattering split emerged with Claire feeling constantly pushed aside when she was 'lead' singer of the band. H's
She basks in her fellow classmates' attention as she walks down the corridor of Chance Harbor High School. Of course there had to be a reason why Cassie is being treated like a demi-goddess, and things soon heat up. In a gripping twist, she gets locked inside a burning car, told that she is a witch, informed that that people are coming after her for her power. As if her mother perishing in a tragic 'accident' wasn't enough for the poor girl to
ing up all the loose ends of Morgana's treachery and the classic 'Will they? Won't they?' between Arthur and Gwen. Anyone who knows their mythology might realise there have been spoilers for that story for quite some time. But never mind. In a neat touch, the show brought together some previous one-off and recurring characters to help Arthur's quest and become the Knights of the Round Table. You would be forgiven for thinking it was the Fellowship of the Ring as a result of the casting, but it was classy nonetheless. The strength of Merlin's cast
involvement in the band began to dissolve when his secret relationship with their manager was exposed. This caused the other members to see him as being favoured, creating further tension and arguments. With so much anger still remaining, the audience inevitably question the true motives over the reunion, for it was Claire who famously said she 'would never go back'. The following three episodes will determine whether or not their differences can be put aside, before deciding if a reunion is what they all truly want.
deal with. The Secret Circle itself, a sixpiece witches coven, has been awaiting Cassie's arrival for years and thus the expected battle between good and evil ensues, played out between Diana, the white witch, and Faye, the power-hungry dark witch. So far Cassie seems likeable and strong. And whilst we will have to see if it pans out, I think this is one supernatural thriller which may have me under its spell.
separates it from its predecessors, with Anthony Head and Richard Wilson excelling in their roles. Merlin has also attracted a variety of well known guest stars, but it is John Hurt as the narrator and voice of the dragon which gives the Merlin deservedly holds a primetime Saturday night slot usually reserved for reality TV shows such as Strictly Come Dancing, or Andrew Lloyd Webber's latest musical creation. The mixture of humour, warmth and mild peril gives Saturday night television a much needed family-friendly boost and makes for fantastic viewing.
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Life&Style
Redbrick
7th October 2011
London Fashion Week: A Student Snapshot Sarah Musgrove Writer
In a dizzying and frantic whirl at the beginning of September, I somehow found myself receiving a press pass for London Fashion Week. To say I was over the moon is an understatement – although it wasn't until the dawning realisation that I had just two days to email over 80 PR representatives, that I thought this might be slightly too much for a lowly student journalist to handle. However, going to Somerset House with 'Fashion Hacks' (a website for wannabe fashion journalists) was a fantastic experience that opened my eyes to the dazzling, if intimidating, world of Fashion Week. This is the perspective of a wannabe-fashion-
hack who had a lot to learn. Five things I took from London Fashion Week: 1. If you're going to London Fashion Week and have no idea what to wear – don't make an effort. Honestly. The simple reason for this is that the sheer amount of competition will make you quake in your inappropriately high wedged boots. There is plenty of sartorial eye candy stalking around Somerset House, and by the end of the second day I realised that the best way (as a member of the 'press') to take in the experience is to stop worrying about the threads on your back, and start admiring the threads walking down the runway. If you are going as a student journalist, blending in will give you the perfect 2. Susie Bubble is really pretty in real life. As in, stop and stare pretty. We all know and love her fashion blog Style Bubble, but it wasn't until I nearly (accidently) shoulder-barged her on the way to the toilets that I could properly
I didn't even notice what she was wearing (some sort of blue blazer?), I was that struck down. New, stomach-churning girl crush. 3. People are a lot nicer than you might think. Yes, shallow and slightly snobbish 'fashion-daahling' stereotype, but for every catty comment I overheard, I noticed a seriously impressive and hard-working journalist, PR representative or runner who was more than happy to help out if you were stuck. As much as some would love to assume, not everyone at London Fashion Week was devoid of an IQ. 4. There are None. I (naively) assumed that there would be a fashion pecking-order; the more outrawas that an individual was an editor, or a buyer, or ran a hip, radical blog with thousands of hits a week. All too quickly it became apparent
Milan to Paris to... Brum Celebrity stylist Bradley Tayto answer the questions from the audience. I found it refreshing that
Jessica Holroyd Writer
From the glamour of London Fashion Week to another style event closer to home. The Style Birmingham Live Event, hosted by Retail Birmingham, synthesized high fashion with high street shoppers and provided a more accessible Fashion Week. Jessica Holroyd gives us an overview of the weekend.... With retail experiencing some of mingham, the three-day fashion and beauty show aimed to set the city alight and encourage the public to fall in love with retail again. George Lamb was the obvious choice to host, bringing the perfect value. The show was introduced in a light-hearted manner, with the promise of a bottle of champagne and a kiss from George himself for
the best question at the end of the display. That was enough of a catalyst for the show to commence. An array of plaid, leather and denim took to the stage, as we were thrust into a stereotypical wild western setting. Despite the lack of imagination in this introductory collection, the following dramatics Operatic music gave a dark made up of men in crisp suits pencil skirts. Structured clothing was then replaced with frivolous maxi skirts and rusty oranges, capturing the crowd's attention in a festival-themed collection, perfectly accentuating autumnal trends. The 1940s inspired collection oozed glamour, sophistication and the inevitable red lipstick. Darkness re-emerged to and gothic collection. The prevalent silver sequins shimmered and added that cosmic touch.
issues in relation to the types of clothing that suit your shape. It is always comforting to see that the items on the catwalk are transferable to your own wardrobe. The Bullring event was much more accessible to the public, held right in the midst of shoppers. All the clothes displayed on the catwalk were easily purchased from the surrounding shops, with high street pieces styled with a cuttingedge slant. The atmosphere was a lot more vibrant, perhaps because the clothing was relatable. There's nothing I love more than going into a thrift gem, or salivating over those luxury pieces in magazines. I think people too often feel that high-street stores don't offer enough originality or variety. However, observing how the stylists were able to mix up high-street fashion to create ontrend looks, it becomes apparent that it is not always what you wear or where it's from, it's how you wear it.
that this wasn't the case. In fact, it was almost embarrassing when you noticed the girl who'd precariously balanced an out-stretched, stuffed falcon on her head was sat in the cheap seats with the rest of the minor league journalists and ticket blaggers. For those few days,
Fierce & Finished Fierce Gary Barlow… enough said The glue that held Take That and now X Factor together. 20% discount for students… everywhere! Move fast and take advantage – we all know what those Student IDs are really for. Snoods The cutest accessory for AW'11. I'm looking forward to snuggling into my lecture seat with a cup of hot chocolate and a woolly snood to keep me warm.
As much as some would love to assume, not everyone at London Fashion Week was devoid of an IQ.
Better library opening hours Call me a geek, but knowing that the library will be there for me until midnight on most days is assuring. I'll see you all there the night before the deadline.
London was brimming with wannabe street-style-snapper muses.
Cadbury 'Screme' Eggs Now we can enjoy one of our favourite treats at Halloween. Trick or Treating has never been this cool.
5. Take a map. Study that map. Never let that map go. Then, when you have somewhere to run to across the other side of London – call a taxi. Speaking from my experience, the only low point of LFW
Paperchase in Selfridges Get the most fashionable academic diaries and other stationary. Nothing says chic more than stylish tools for organisation.
I completely missed a show. It was a short leap from feeling ever-theprofessional with my press pass around my neck, to sitting in a park and trying not to sob on the bench next to a strange man.
Tweets of the Week
Redbrick returning to print after a long summer We've missed you!
Finished
@caitlinmoran
Awkward seminars Stare at
@gregjames
There's nothing like a deadly silent group of people to get you into the next academic year.
Louis's line-up looks like the cast of Toy Story Oh hiiiiiii...Birmingham Propaganda was bloody brilliant tonight. Thank u if u were there. I have a sore throat so i'd better stop chatting
@AlanCarr
Please please please stop! I know now. I really wish I'd never asked what a sex wee is. Now people in the church are looking at me
@piersmorgan with me at PoB Awards like she normally does..
No more Friends on E4 Oh... My... God! Goodbye continuous Friends repeats, we hope to meet again someday. Coughing in lectures Sadly inevitable at the beginning of term. Whether it's you or someone else, Abduction Taylor Lautner's hot, but where's the plot? It's hard to see this cutie as anything but our favourite wolf Jacob Black. Bring on Breaking Dawn Part 1.
@MichelleMone
Random weather Am I the only one who is sick of sweating in a cardigan or freezing my toes off in
gown?Going back to bed Mx
is getting harder and harder. I'm actually wishing for normal autumn weather, it is October after all!
Oh dear,its all coming back to me now!I really did do the splits
@KimKardashian
One week until our fairy tale wedding airs on E! I can't wait for u guys to see it!!! Oct 9th & 10th!!!
Topshop prices I swear a few years ago it was rare to
@jimmycarr
in Topshop that was over £40. Flannel Trench Coat for £160 anyone?
Apparently women get through 30 hairstyles in a lifetime. And men notice around 3 of them
@rickygervais
Karl is not on twitter I'm afraid. As he's said many times " I don't like fun"
Redbrick
Editors – Sophie Cowling & Lara Edwards
Fashionistas in PJs? Esther Newman Writer
The unexpected weather last week '11 wardrobe. Passing through The Guild to University Square the place was awash with 'midi' skirts, Ray Ban Wayfarers. It seemed to me the sun had brought out everyone's last ounce of summer style, and they were there to show off. This was until I took a second glance. Being a self-confessed fashion victim means I pay particular interest to what others wear, and take delight in spying, snooping bos, a trait that got me noticing the complete extremes of 'UoB campus fashion'. Amidst those displaying their fashion stripes are those who simply couldn't care less. This is not to say they don't care about their appearance or their clothing, as they are certainly not scruffy, it's just they rank comfort higher than what is listed in Elle's most recent must-haves. Tracksuit bottoms, tees and, on the most extreme occasion, pyjamas, interrupt the Vogue followers – a fact that we should celebrate. It is most certainly an upshot of the relaxed and 'anything goes' modern society in which we live. The rules are no longer so strict about colours, shapes or fabrics that suit. We can pretty much wear whatever we feel like, and if this means someone does not feel
Celebutots
it is necessary to change out of their PJs in the morning – well, We don't have to cover our ankles, unlike Victorian women, or keep our hemlines below the knee, as was the norm of the 1950s. Shockingly, we can actually make our underwear a feature of an outpoking out of the top of our blouse that matches our favourite ballet pumps, or the words 'Calvin Klein' plastered across many a male buttock. It simply doesn't matter, and this is what should be admired. Pyjamas can be worn alongside Reiss, and hoodies with the latest Topshop. Scandalous behaviour in fashion seems not to exist anymore and, even if it does, those who create it are at the cutting edge anyway. Just look at Vivienne Westwood or the raunchy sex appeal created at Dolce & Gabbana a rule, break it. So the next time you are so incredibly hung-over that the thought of opening your wardrobe is too much, or comfort is the only thing likely to pull you through a day in the library – go for it! It all adds to the eclectic 'UoB campus style' and it is something I think we should be proud of. Whilst I am sure I will continue to steal a look at what the 'fashionistas' are wearing onto campus, I will also revel in the fact that, if I wanted to, I could wear my PJs. Tomorrow maybe I will do exactly that.
Can LDRs work?
Suri wears designer suricruisefashion.blogspot.com Geraldine Tovey Writer
Beyonce's pregnancy sparked a media frenzy, with speculation about how fabulous and insanely talented this child will be, leading to gene-envy like no other. No birth has been more anticipated since Simba in The Lion King. The astounding amount of interest just highlights how obsessed we are with celebrities' kids, from Apple Martin to Zahara JoliePitt. Magazines spend millions of pounds on exclusive photos of newborn celebrity babies just to feed our curiosity. The thing that makes these children so fascinating is their
Megan Nisbet Writer
Aristotle once said 'Love is composed of a single soul inhabiting two bodies'. However, when those two bodies are separated by miles of geography, it becomes harder for two hearts to beat as one. When university came around I didn't realise that within months my relationship with my 'soul mate' would end in words of comfort from friends, convincing me I was 'better off without that loser' and a string of drunken weekends with the girls. Looking back, I can't help but think that the whole experience was a waste of my time and energy. But then again, hindsight is a wonderful thing. In my naivety as a taken fresher, I assumed my social life would take on a whole new dimension, but having a boyfriend that could only watch my life play out in pictures from afar actually created quite the opposite effect. Our trusting, laidback relationship was soon broken down by messy Carnage pictures with new friends, that my boyfriend (who remained back at home working) became increasingly uncomfortable with. After collaborating with friends in similar situations, I found this to be the norm.
of life. That's without adding the expense of doing 'fun' things while endeavouring to keep the passion alive after weeks of separation. I also found, as I'm sure many others in my situation have, that our relationship became very suQuite obviously there were many problems that should have been talked about; unhealthily, they were swept under the rug, as we were wary not to tarnish the little time we did have together. Despite all this energy, the ending to the story is not a pretty one. After a year of wastefully battling with cross country love, I can safely say I have joined many other students in feeling sourly towards long distance relationships. I am now considering taking advice from my mother, a Welsh girl from the Valleys who married a Scotsman (my beloved father) who has been telling all my friends and me for years… 'Become lesbians, girls! It's the only way'.
Read the other half of the debate online at www.redbrickpaper. co.uk/lifestyle...
luxurious lifestyle. The amount of travelling that they have done is incredible. Whilst a typical childhood holiday involves visits to Weston Super Mare, celebrity children have had more passport stamps than hot dinners. What is more, whilst students have to lower their standards to Primark, Suri Cruise has a closet full of designer clothes that she is simply going to grow out of in a matter of months. She also has an iPad – what she can possibly need it for is a whole different story. The opportunities that celebrity offspring receive are simply unfathomable, and can often make us green with envy. Whilst many of us are struggling to get an internship or work experience, they have so many prospects. Look at Madonna's daughter Lourdes for example, who has a clothing line at the age of 14. This being said, the majority
of us should be happy that we were never given this opportunity, as teenage years are generally not associated with being the most fashionable. Will and Jada Smith's kids their parents' fame, with Jaden being the most recent Karate Kid and Willow releasing the epic whiplash-inducing tune 'Whip My Hair'. It is certainly intriguing to see how these celebrity children grow up; whether they will take after their parents and be attractive and successful, or whether this privileged lifestyle will completely go to their head. Their lives are completely ridiculous, and this is why ultimately 'celebutots' will always be great tabloid fodder and a source of entertainment for all of us who love a bit of celebrity gossip. We still have some great celebs to breed yet; imagine Lady Gaga's kids…
Brad, Ange & brood... thehollywoodgossip.com
Ready, steady... blog!
Nevertheless, in a heroic attempt to save our relationship from further distress, I found myself selling my tickets for nights out and spending endless hours on Skype. In actual fact I don't think I ventured to Fab once all year. It was costly too; unless one of us the Mega Bus, which meant giving up precious Friday nights at Gatecrasher and didn't allow commitment to a sports team on either side. The price of seeing each other for maybe just a night or two sim-
Life&Style 21
7th October 2011 www.redbrickpaper.co.uk
is Viktor Vauthier. Originally from France but living in East London, Vauthier has made a name for himself photographing his friends and life around him. Using his trademark 35mm
Rebecca Jones Writer
We've all heard it before. In order to get your name and work out there, you need to be blogging. With a huge number of websites allowing you to do so, there is opportunity for absolutely anyone to share their opinions, writing and photos with the world. But how successful can a blog really make you? As the following two blogs show, there is no limit to the doors it can open. Fourteen-year-old Tavi Gevinson is proof of this. She began her blog 'Style Rookie' on Blogger.com at the tender age of 11 and has been on the up ever since. Commenting on the latest catwalk fashion and her own style in a voice far beyond her years, she has secured herself a place as the darling of fashion. She is now a regular on the front row of New York shows and has graced the covers of both Love and Pop magazines. She is currently developing her own magazine. It will be her own version of the cult magazine Sassy with the original founder Jane Pratt, an extraordinary triumph at such a young age. Suddenly it seems okay to be taking fashion tips off a 14-year-old. Add her blog to your favourites now: thestylerookie.com Another blogger whose career
ters. Trusting his talent, they gave ters clothes and he shot them on his friends for one of their ad campaigns. The result is a collection of photographs that Vauthier hopes will one day represent the youth of the '00s. He is now working on projects for the London-based
How successful can a blog really make you?
at the University of Liverpool, studying English & Communications. In her spare time, she is the talented writer behind whatoliviadid.com, a fashion blog with lots of extra features: stunning photography, student recipes, music reviews and even interviews with musicians. Here at Redbrick we love her personal style: a mixture of classic pieces and slightly more quirky items – effortless chic at its best. Having recently been nominated for the Cosmopolitan Blog Awards, Olivia is certainly one to keep your eye on!
whatoliviadid.com fashion magazine Tank and developing his own book of his favourite photos, as well as working on ambition to make movies, this is a name to remember: viktorvautier. blogspot.com This being said, there are still hundreds of blogs that go unnoticed, but these guys are going the extra mile, with original ideas, creativity and individuality oozing out of their pores. So what are you waiting for? Start your exciting new blog today and who knows? Next week YOU could be rubbing shoulders with Tavi at a New York fashion party.
22 redbrickpaper.co.uk
Redbrick
7th October 2011
Food
Did you know?
More than 50,000 people visit Buckingham Palace each year as the Queen's guests at banquets, lunches, dinners, receptions and garden parties. One does love a royal cucumber sandwich.
and Figures Revealed... Rosie Sharratt Writer How can a nation be famous for both indulgent food and worldclass catwalks? Pizza, pasta, pastry and ice-cream- they’re the kind of tasty treats that the fashion industry doesn’t always appreciate as much as the rest of us. I know the Mediterranean lifestyle is meant to keep you spritely and energetic well into retirement, but with that much dough involved, I simply can't see the logic. for my year abroad, I was suspicious of how the local ladies managed to live in streets lined with bakeries and still keep slinky and sexy in their skinny jeans. But after a few weeks of careful observation, I soon discovered their secret. I admit I arrived in the sunny boot of Europe with plenty of pre-conceptions of our European neighbours. I was sure there would be lots of passionate hand gesturing (true), impassioned accordion players providing the soundtrack to bustling street cafés (true), and was on my guard for slick-haired Casanovas prowling the piazzas (pleasingly not true). What took me by surprise was one particu-
lar mentality, woven as deftly and naturally through the culture as a Vespa through cobbled sidestreets: moderation. Alright, so it isn’t the most dramatic revelation, but its a concept that sets the bar classily high for many other countries- particularly for Britain. As statistics often remind us, we love a good takeaway (recent surveys show that 45% of Brits enjoy indulging in fast food too much to give it up, followed closely by 44% of Americans). We love a drink, or three, and, when it comes to letting off steam, it goes indulgence shouldn’t end until it’s UK, binge drinking accounts for 40% of all drinking occasions for men, and 22% for women. When it comes to food and drink, we can’t seem to get enough of a good thing. All the while, it seems Italians are almost supernaturally resistant to the chocolate-to-faceshovelling and wine swigging that some of us (or, at least, me and a few of my friends) are powerless to resist. For example, whilst in Italy one of my two housemates carefully cut a doughnut into four
pieces, kindly offered me a segment, and when each of us had savoured our piece, the last quarter was wrapped in foil and left in the fridge - for three days. This, apparently, was normal. Alien as this concept of "saving chocolate for later" was to me, I have to say I respected it. However, I’m quite sure that even if I tried to adopt such an attitude towards confectionary, it’s
likely that I would end up cheating by "sleep eating", or accidently falling open mouthed on to a bacon sandwich. The Italian powers of selfcontrol also apply into alcohol- it’s one of the few places where people claim they’re just going out for one drink, and actually mean it. That’s not to say Italians don’t know how to enjoy themselves- they throw a mean carnival, and their food
markets never fail to excite and delight. Perhaps it’s just that “fun” doesn’t translate directly between our two nations- each with our different ways of using eating and drinking to make ourselves feel good. myself with a family-size bag of Maltesers and some spare time, I
Food on Campus Our weekly interview with an international student . . . cranberry, and tastes a little more bitter. We literally put it in every dish we eat.
Could you describe Nordic cuisine Fish; berries; mushrooms; foraging; and meats like moose or bison.
ture?
Each week we will be catching up with an international student to discuss food from home, its place within their culture, as well as their thoughts on English food. To kick of this year, we caught up with Petra, Vice-President of the Nordic Society.
Hi there. Who are you, where are you from, and how long have you been living in the UK? Hi, my name is Petra and I am just at the beginning of my third year studying International Relations, so I have been here for two years now. I am from Helsinki, in Finland.
What are you favorite foods from back home? Well I would say Reindeer, because that’s the only place you can get it. You eat it in a stew, with mash potatoes and a loganberry sauce. Loganberry looks like a
-
Food is always at the heart of all of our celebrations or public holidays. The upper classes have with toast, and lots of vodka. Also in the summer, barbeques play an important role as most families have summerhouses in the country, much more than people do in the UK. Cooking for big celebrations is where you see all the generations of women within the family coming together.
What are your thoughts on English food? Plain. Traditional English food just doesn’t have the strength of Indian food over here, because it a fan of those pies though, with all that dough! It’s because when cooking in Finland, we only use only really eat rye. English food in general just confuses me, what’s up with those scotch egg things?
Birmingham Food Fest
Lauren Yee gives us the 'heads up' about the second city's culinary event of the year Lauren Yee Writer The start of the new academic year kicks off with one of Birmingham's biggest food events, the Birmingham Food Festival. This is the held and promises to offer an array of exciting food experiences for all food-lovers in Birmingham to enjoy. An assortment of different eateries are getting involved in the festival, from top Michelin of Harborne and winner of Gordon Ramsay's F Word, to everyday cafes and bistros such as Urban Pie and Metro Bar and Grill. From the 14th - 23rd October the city will be celebrating its culinary diversity with a variety of different events, activities and most importantly for students, offers. One of the best promotions is the 'Gastro Card' that for ten pounds gives you discounts after the event for six months at over sixty restaurants in Birmingham. The website,
www.birminghamfoodfest.com, lists the numerous restaurants taking part in the festival and their various deals, such as Carluccio's free bottle of wine or 10% off at The Plough in Harborne. If you're passionate about food, enjoy going out for meals or just want a break from everyday student 'pasta' for dinner, it would be unthinkable to not take advantage of the many bargains available for this ten day period. Apart from these great offers, the festival has a number of unique activities that you can take part in. One of the most interesting activities being offered is at the Nacan enjoy cooking demonstrations and learn new sustainable seafood recipes as well as experiencing the tropical aquariums.If you're willing to splash out on £250 for you and a friend, then the Thinktank's you can have a one of a kind three course eating experience under the starry 360° dome promises to be an unforgettable night.
A cheaper alternative that's closer to home is the Edwardian Afternoon Tea at Winterbourne House and Garden, an easy stroll from campus where you can enjoy the unusual amount of sun we've been seeing recently. Alternatively, ham is opening by the canals during the festival and is the perfect excuse to try something out of the ordinary. Why not try the Foraging Tour where you can actually learn to identify and cook edible wild food in Birmingham? Whatever cuisine you're a fan of, whether its Asian, Italian or ers will be pleased to note that Yo! is 25% off at Kinnaree Thai Restaurant. Not only are Birmingham restaurants celebrating food, but so are some of Birmingham's biggest tourist attractions: Cadbury World and the Ikon gallery. Even if you're trying to lose that freshCorden in a food related play, 'One Man, Two Guvnors' at the New Alexandra Theatre on the 19th October. The Birmingham Food Festival looks set to showcase the diversity that Birmingham has to to be missed.
Redbrick
Editors – James Morrison & Jordan Warner
Food 23
7th October 2011 www.redbrickpaper.co.uk
Meet the chefs: No. 1, Andy Waters
catches up with
Redbrick Food Moments The food team look back on their summer highlights
actually did, but it was the dream
After eight and a half years, I was then invited to return home to open Simpsons, not in Edgbaston where it is today, but in Kennelworth. Again, I was there another eight or nine years, where we gained a Michelin star. It was at this time that I decided Henley-upon-Arden, where we achieved a Michelin star within although a feat in itself, I think this was more to do with timing than expertise. For a chef, this is a massive acheivement, but I am not sure how much the public realised at that time, quite what it meant. Now, of course, through the Gordon Ramsays of this world, this is changing.
kirstywhitakerphotography.com Food Editor
Well my mum was a confectioner, cakes and icing sugar eveywhere. She would make everything from wedding to novelty cakes and shared her own business in Bromsgrove, where the cake making scene was vibrant, as it is now. Looking back, I wish I had spent more time paying attention to what she did, instead of playing football.
I think so. From around the age of 14 or 15, when you actually start thinking about what you want to do, I did have a bit of a vision of what I wanted to do. I didn't fully appreciate what a chef
Writers Being a fresher is hard on the wallet, but there are ways to avoid blowing that precious student loan on expensive convenience foods and takeaways. If you manage to then your bank balance will be looking as healthy as you are. Pasta Use dried pasta rather than fresh, as it's cheap and can sit in your cupboard for ages. Put your pasta into a pan of boiling water with some – and here's the important part – oil and a bit of salt. It gives
ing together. Keep it boiling for about 10-12 minutes if it's dried, three mins if it's fresh, or however long it says on the packet. Serve with homemade tomato sauce. Couscous
that I wanted. When I started, in the early 80s, it was of a time where if you didn't know what you wanted to do, you became a chef. However, nowadays you are put on more of a platform, where you can actually be proud to say that you're a chef.
Well, my brother got me my Bournemouth a lot, as my aunt lived there, and we would look through the hedge at the Chewton ment and fantastic manor house. From Bournemouth, I came back to Birmingham to the Plough and Harrow, on the Hagley Road. At the time, it was the best hotel to go to and had just won hotel of the year. Once I developed there, I had the direction that I didn't star establishment.
pasta but it's even easier to make and is cheap to buy from most supermarkets. Simply boil the kettle, and whilst you're waiting, pour some couscous into a bowl. Pour enough boiling water over the couscous to cover it completely, then let it stand for 5-10 minutes (or according to packet). Fluff it up with a fork and you're good to go. Serve with chopped peppers, a squeeze of lemon juice, and (if
I admire anyone who does the job properly. I suppose there are the cliches of Gordon Ramsay or Marco Pierre White, but I wouldn't say that either. When I hear criticism of them I think 'you probably don't know the background of them'; the background of them is second to none, and I know what it takes to do it.
Like any chef, we all like our spoils. A Kentucky fried chicken, or a good steak and chips. If you ask anyone in the trade, I am sure they will turn to the simpler things. While we are continuof meat, or caviers etc, we are as human as anybody else.
and fry in a pan with some oil until soft. Add a tin of chopped tomatoes and let it all cook together for about 15 minutes until it becomes less watery. Add a splash of red wine if you've got any open, then stir in some herbs – dried basil is perfect, as it's much cheaper than fresh basil but with all the consider throwing in a few olives, a bit of chopped up chilli, or some fried bacon.
Eggs
The jacket potato is the Grandad of comfort food, so stock up for those winter evenings. Wash a large baking potato and prick the skin a couple of times with a knife. Rub olive oil and a little salt all over the skin (this will make it crispy) then bake for two hours at 200 degrees centigrade or gas mark 6, on the middle shelf of the oven. If you want to speed things up a bit then microwave the potato for a few minutes on high before baking. Serve with that old classic combination of baked beans and cheddar cheese.
Chop up an onion and some garlic,
Coffee Shop Britain They have fair-trade-coffeeWriter When you're slaving away in a tersea where the air smells remarkplace to eat, and spend your precious lunch time is quite a task. That's why my food moment Affair, a beautifully designed little coffee shop tucked away in Queenstown Road Tube station.
interesting sandwiches, made in front of you, using artisan breads and the freshest of ingredients, prove that there's life in the nation's favourite breaded snack yet. cheese, beetroot, and spinach in fresh walnut bread and chorizo and sweet red peppers in ciabatta. With variety like that, it's no wonder that I went there every day for three weeks!
Brain surgeon. No, I am joking. I suppose it would have been more upon the labouring side of things, like my brother who builds boats for Sea Line – he has a great life.
Potato
Tomato Sauce
In July, with exams well and truly out of the way and being in desperate need of some sun, I jetted off to Toulouse in the south of France to stay with a French family I knew. Being the type of person who somehow always ends up planning the day around cooking and mealtimes, the prospect of 40°C heat, freshly baked croissants, crusty French baguettes and enough cheese and wine to feed an army, assured me I was guaranteed to have a great time and really appreciate the French food culture! Every lunchtime, and even at dinner in fact, we would all sit on the veranda in front of an enormous table laden with mountains of food from warm baguettes to
Israeli Food Experience
some crumbled feta. Easy!
The humble boiled egg. Put your egg into a pan of hot water (not boiling as it will crack the shell), then bring to the boil. Keep it cooking for about 4-5 minutes if you like a nice runny yolk, or six minutes if you want it hard. Serve with a nice bit of buttered toast. A simple lunch that comes at minimal effort and cost.
Writer
barbequed mackerel, to fresh melons and homemade tartes aux ing nicely, and it seemed that our stereotype of French cuisine was indeed very accurate. However, nothing could have prepared me for the cheeseboard… This cheeseboard was like nothing I have ever seen before, piled high with ten enormous wedges of cheese, some of which were extremely pungent to say the least, and the excited murmur that rippled around the table as everyone prepared to dig in. Now, I like cheese, or at least I thought I liked cheese, but as I watched a fourteen month old baby happily tuck in to a slice of Camembert that was easily the size of her head, I realised that the French appreciation of cheese was on a whole new level to ours: ten different cheeses with lunch and dinner, now that was impressive!
Food Editor Welcome back Gastronauts of Birmingham! This summer was one of adventure, romance, food and plenty of sunshine. I spent three months working on a kibbutz in the northern most point of Israel situated on the Lebanese border. Placed in orchards it was easy to see how anyone can fall in love with the lifestyle that the kibbutz volunteers have been attracted to since the early 1970s. Work is hard and with long hours (often starting work at 4:30am if tending to the orchards) every meal was one to look forward to. As you can imagine, being in the heart of Israel we were offered an abundance of fresh fruit and vegetables that accompanied
from the Sea of Gallilee. The long nights and beautiful scenery was enough to encourage any romance to blossom. However, it was Israel's fresh and organic food markets that caught my sensual eye (as well as the odd Danish girl). Markets in Jerusalem are den food-gems that take your senses for a ride through ancient ruins and religious sites. Beduin teas, turkish coffees and my favourite: the shawarma – seduced my tender stomach to the point of pure ecstasy. Laffa bread (a giant form of bread somewhere between a pitta and a fajita) was lamb and then loaded with Israeli chopped salad and a staple of any meal: houmous. Absolutely delicious!
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Redbrick
7th October 2011
Travel
Redbrick Travel's fact of the week: There is a city called Rome in every continent (and none of them were built in a day!)
Carnival Rag: Are you Machu Enough? The real Paradise Lost Travel talks to Tom Benham and James Kendrick from Carnival Rag about this year's exciting treks
photo by Liz Crump Tom Benham on Kilimanjaro: How should I prepare for climbing the largest free-standing mountain in the world? need. Get walking and go camping once or twice beforehand to see what things you need. There will be plenty of support and medical assistance if necessary. If Chris Moyles can do it, you can too! What about altitude sickness? The trip itinerary allows you to acclimatise gradually and respirators will be on hand. Interestingly, light smoking increases resistance but I don't recommend it! What should I carry in my backpack? Sweets, lightweight jacket and trousers, four season sleeping bag, water bottle, sunglasses with UV protection, hat and high SPF sun cream. Signing up to the trek will get you discount at Cotswold and 1000 mile offer a money back guarantee on their blister proof socks. Leave books behind, they're
heavy and you'll just want to sleep when you have downtime. So how much does it all cost and where does the money go? It's £275 to register, plus a target sponsorship of £2,500 going go towards Meningitis Research Foundation and Practical Action. Kilimanjaro expedition: September 3rd-19th 2012 Registration: 5th October at 5pm in the Rosa Parks Room
'If Chris Moyles can do it, you can too!' James Kendrick on Machu Picchu: You've already climbed Machu Picchu, can you tell us about your experiences? We went white water rafting in the Valley of the Incas, which was amazing. We also visited the Ata-
October the World Over Emily Booth Travel Editor
Halloween Traditions Halloween originated in Ireland, but nearly every country in the world has a Halloween tradition. In Austria for example, people leave bread and water out at night in case dead souls want to come back to earth and many other countries use Halloween to honour their dead. India October is one of the best times to go to India, as long as you don't mind the odd monsoon. With their festival season in full swing you could head to Rajasthan for the International Folk Festival (12th-16th Oct), or just go and chill out with Dussehra, Ashwa Poojan and Durga Puja for drumming, lights and music..
cama desert, the driest place in the world but it was raining-typical! The best thing I saw was Machu Picchu rising out of the mist – just fantastic! What are your top tips? Take lots of socks, you can never have too many! Neutralising tablets take away the chlorine taste
Oktoberfest The 178th Oktoberfest ended last weekend in Munich. The beer festival, an integral part of Bavarian culture, has enjoyed yet another successful run and if you want to indulge in wenches and lederhosen then this is the festival for you. 2012 dates are September 22nd – October 7th.
Reporter
Exit Festival. Novi Sad, Serbia. Four days of intense partying, unbearable heat and incredible music. At the end of it all, I was well and truly shattered. So, instead of continuing the party and following fellow inter-railers deeper into Belgrade or down south to the Croatian coast, I went West, in search of something more relaxed, less commercial and free of tourists. It was in Slovenia that I found this oasis – Lake Bled. An undiscovered paradise in the Julian Alps, a stone's throw from both the Italian and Austrian borders. A short train journey from the capital Ljubljana, takes you to heart of the picturesque town of Bled, situated on the edge of a vast lake. The crystal clear water is adorned with swans and wooden rowing boats and in the middle, a 15th Century church sits on a tiny island. The water is perfectly clean and warm enough for a dip – you can even swim to the church! On a cliff on the North shore, a medieval castle, straight out of 'Chitty Chitty Bang Bang's' Vulgaria, overlooks the lake. A 20 minute trek
(not for the faint-hearted!) leads to spectacular views from the castle tower of Bled and its neighbouring towns. Climbing in the surrounding hills, passing the elegant hotels and lavish houses on the water's edge, it seemed like the perfect location for a Bond villain's lair. The town itself was charming. My hostel was a converted 1900s chalet, which offered free use of its bikes for those adventurous enough to tackle the steep hills or burn off the slice of 'Bled Cake', a sweet, creamy dessert that has to be tried (again and again). Although not the place to go if you're looking for nightlife, the 'George Best Bar' (why it was called this, I'll never know) provided a brilliant night out. Though it's well off the beaten track, and not a typical backpacker destination, Bled is perfect for those looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of cities, its distinctive old-fashioned classiness is a breath of fresh air, and its fairy-tale scenery will inspire both amateur and National Geographic standard photographers to capture this lost paradise.
more likely to keep hydrated. Take a camera, but you don't want to seem like a tourist so don't have it out all the time. When ascending, slowly one step at a time – we kept each other going. And the numbers? Registration is £325 and the sponsorship target is £2750. We're raising money for Practical Action and Epilepsy Society. Machu Picchu expedition: July – September 2012 (tbc) Registration: 21st October at 5pm in the Rosa Parks Room For more, visit: www.redbrickpaper.co.uk/ travel
photo by Beth Ditzel
Last chance for little sister Laos Will Spence
Guinness Cork Jazz Festival 28th -31st October. American sax legend Pee Wee Ellis is hitting Cork after 55 years in the business. Soul legend James Brown's wing man and writer of 26 of his hits, this is one night not to miss.
Beth Ditzel
Reporter
Think of South-East Asia, and you picture booze, sex shows, and Brits abroad. It is fair to say, each epitomises traveller behaviour often witnessed in Thailand's capital, Bangkok. Having spent several days in this hectic metropolis, my travelling partner and I decided to go north, to the lesser known country of Laos. Starkly contrasted from most other backpacker destinations on the continent, Laos is land-locked and has a slower pace compared to its noisy neighbours, with most bars shutting at 10 or 11pm, so no late night shenanigans. An overnight train journey from Bangkok, arriving in Vientiane, Laos' capital, was like arriving into a pool of tranquillity. Rather than hearing the constant 'Taxi? Taxi, sir?' shouts from every car parked by the side of the road, people would smile at you,
appreciating the fact that you've taken the time to come away from their hedonistic sister, Thailand. What is striking about Vientiane is that there are no high-rise buildings and you would have to You could almost walk down the middle of the city's main road, a rarity in a capital city. There is a very laid back atmosphere in terms of nightlife and you can sit with a Beer Lao at sunset on the Mekong River, happy in the knowledge that it only cost you the equivalent of 50p. Dance clubs are hard to come by, but once you get here you'll be so taken by the relaxed atmosphere of the city that simply making friends over a beer or two in Museums are plentiful, my favourite being the Lao National Museum, displaying a very thorough, if somewhat unreadable at times, history of Laos through its struggle for independence from France. If
temples aren't your thing however, Shooting Range. A tour of the Beer Lao factory is also a must, with a free beer or two available if booked in advance. is Vang Vieng, a backpacker haven. A huge contrast to Vientiane, drinking and partying are available 24/7 here, with 99 per cent of the crowd being Western backpackers. Some say that this is the start of the decline for Laos, with the Vieng. Laos will be engulfed with backpackers, similar to the way Thailand has been over the last 20 years, and the laid back culture will titude, and the charm of Laos will be lost. So, for your last chance to see the true Laos, go now and experience its tranquility before big sis gets her claws in.
Redbrick
redbrickpaper.co.uk
7th October 2011
Sport
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Triathlon Feature about a club who were very successful over the summer, p. 26
Lifesavers well equipped to progress Sport Editor Sam Price Lifesaving Disciplines The Mannequin Carry (50m) With a dive start on an acoustic signal, the competitor swims 25m freestyle and then dives to recover a submerged mannequin to the surface within 5m of the pickup line. The competitor then carries edge of the pool. Mannequin Tow with Fins (100m)
Peel dives past an underwater gate during training (left), and an example of a Mannequin Tow with Fins (right)
skills, and turns them into compettion I got of the sport lifesaving from Luke Peel, club captain of the University of Birmingham Lifesaving Club. Lifesaving is a vital skill, but few people are aware that it is a competitive and physically demanding sport in its own right. The University of Birmingham ished third in the British Universirunning. There are 12 league competitions a year, as well as a threeday National Championships in March, in which Birmingham picked up a bronze medal in 2010. Lifesaving includes a lot of swimming, and the lifesavers are assessed on different disciplines with a points score, including the Swim and Tow, the Mannequin Carry and the Line Throw. Dry-side rescue skills such as Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and First Aid are also part of the assessment, and the team that picks up the most points overall win the competition
outright.
petitions in teams of four and the idea is to deal with the situation put in front of you. The scorers are looking for teamwork, communiamount of points you can score for a rescue varies with different incidents, often depending on the type Third year Computer Science student Peel and fellow lifesaving extremely successful two weeks ago when competing for their local club Crawley, coming back from the European Lifesaving Championships in Alicante with gold medals, a fantastic achievement. great set-up at Crawley and a brilliant coach (who also coaches EngThere were around 40 teams, with some of the German and Spanish teams as the favourites, but we performed to our best and got the With such elite performers at its disposal, the University club is
This Week In Numbers
36
six national standard lifesavers; this experience helps raise the club standard. This year, the aim is to win BULSCA League A and the NaThe club itself is open to absolutely everyone and you can choose which training sessions to attend, train in the Munrow three times a week. Wednesday is award training, Friday is competition trainranges from complete beginners to people who have been competyear students to get involved as perfect time to join the club, as everyone starts on the same platform. There is a big event coming up, the freshers competition in Southampton, in which 20 to 30 ing three teams down, and competitors can decide for themselves
tube. After touching the turning wall, and within the 5m pick-up The omens are good for the cue tube correctly around a mannew year and with such experienced hands at the club they can The event is complete when the expect to thrive and improve. There seems to be good camarade- of the pool. rie among the club, which is stimulated by competing at other uni- Line Throw unique set-up, and creates a really In this timed event, the competifriendly environment, with socials tor throws an unweighted line to a fellow team member located in the - water on the near side of a rigid ful taster session, the club can con- crossbar located 12m distant. The tinue to expand and challenge for silverware this campaign.
Joining the Club The lifesaving club is ÂŁ80 to join for the year. This covers three training sessions per week, including four hours in the pool and two hours dry-side, as well as subsidising competition entry and transport costs. The club welcomes all abilities and experiences, also offering the opportunity to take your National Pool Lifeguarding Quali-
This Week In Quotes dreams of millions of rugby supporters back home and all Former England star Jeremy Guscott is far from impressed at the
The
Sport Quiz
1) Who was the leading run-scorer in the LV County Championship 2010/11 season? 2) Who won the 2011 NFL Superbowl?
Red cards in the past 14 Merseyside Derbies folat Goodison Park last week.
500 19
if he had got a yellow card I think people would have asked Italian jockey Frankie Dettori, following his win aboard Dabirsim at the Arc meeting.
4) Who won the 2011 Copa America, beating
Andy Murray recorded his 19th career ATP Title with victory at the Thailand Open last weekend.
52
Points scored by South African kicker MornĂŠ Steyn, the leading points scorer so far in the Rugby World Cup.
3) Following the 2011 World Athletic Championships in Daegu, what do Usain Bolt, Dwain Chambers and Christine Ohuruogu all have in common?
Peter Schiergen, trainer of Arc de Triomphe winner Danedream, on
5) Which athlete burst onto the scene at the Daegu World Championships by winning the 400 metres at the age of 18?
c 1, Marcus Trescothick 2, Green Bay Packers 3, They were all
11
Total tries scored so far in the Rugby World Cup by hosts New Zealand, who are strongly fancied to win the tournament.
in especially good health ahead of the new year, and Peel is aiming as
With a dive start on an acoustic signal, the competitor swims 50m
26 Sport
Redbrick
7th October 2011 www.redbrickpaper.co.uk
Editors – Sam Price & Joseph Audley
Productive summer for triathletes Sport writer Frankie Conway talks to key members of Birmingham's triathlon squad, who returned from the BUCS Olympics with medals The University of Birmingham's triathlon squad are looking forward to bigger and better things in 2011/12 after a fruitful team display in July's BUCS Olympics. Competing at the Dearne Valley Triathlon Centre in Rotherham, Birmingham took home four medals in the national wide event, which is the pinnacle of the BUCS series calendar. Adding to the team bronze in the male event and silver in the women's, Sophie Reynolds and Samantha Rose notched po-
intensity increases and there is more of an orientation on speed training. Despite the regimented structure, Smith was categorical in stating the seven-sessions-a-week programme is not expected of all athletes and that members can dip in and out of training to suit their busy student lives. Discussing the positive impact of the Olympics success, Smith appreciated how the team's triumphs had buoyed the club's spirits for
respectively to mark triumphant championships for Birmingham. Commenting on her success, Reynolds admitted some surprise
lift. We had a presentation evening on Friday night and it was clear our new members were inspired by the team's success and excited by the challenge this season.' The points picked up at the BUCS Olympics carry over to the 2011/12 campaign, which leaves Birmingham in a very healthy early position, trailing only Loughborough, in second place. The club is also extremely determined to bridge the gap between themselves and Loughborough. Smith stated, 'this year will serve as a transition year for the club. We are introducing a few structural changes this season and the long term plan is to dominate triathlon at university level within
myself the ambitious goal of a poistic top ten target. So to medal was completely unexpected.' The Olympic distance, which Reynolds is looking to stick at, is comprised of a 1500m open water swim, 40km bike ride and a 10km run. Such a physically demanding sport requires severe dedication and immense focus. Reynolds and the other seven elite athletes at the University of Birmingham, all train over ten times a week. Talking me through her gruelling schedule, my jaw drops at the deof her four weekly swims, four run sessions and six bike workouts, she comments on her own uncomproReynolds is also a key member of the support team at the University club, and relishes her role of helping bring on the newer members of the team. She advises patience and hard work as the keys to long term success in the sport but above all emphasises enjoyment as absolutely paramount. This message is echoed strongly by newly appointed Club President, Nick Smith. Smith and Vice President, Keith Pugh, state two broad aims at the club. One, of course, relates to driving the club forward at an elite level with a view to building on last year's medal success. But, coupled with this, Smith works tirelessly on attracting new members to the
Triathlete Ed Hynd crosses the line for Birmingham club, at all ability levels. 'A big goal of ours is to increase participation. We want to build a strong rapport in our team; a family atmosphere, where people get to know each other and enjoy their training.' The drive to increase participation has resulted in 60 new members joining the club this year. Smith and his team have a very organised structure to their training regime, which nurtures all the athletes at the club. The programme is built on a weekly regime of two swim, two run and
Keith Pugh
three cycling sessions. The sessions are progressive and designed so athletes peak for big competitions. The triathlon season runs from April to September, and the four main events in the BUCS series are, the Duathlon (run, bike, run) in November; Biathlon (swim and run) in March; the sprint triathlon in April and the Olympics in July. The training takes on an endurance emphasis in winter, with a lot of long, slow sessions, focustion for the summer season, the
is the new coach employed at the university this year. Louise Baron is a level three triathlon coach and was mentored by Jack Maitland, the coach of current world numbers' one and two, Britain's Alistair and Jonathan Brownlee. Baron is looking to advance the training offered and introduce more scholarship schemes to attract a greater number of elite triathletes to train at Birmingham from across Britain and the world. Whilst 2011 yielded very impressive results for the University of Birmingham, the 2011/12 season promises even more success. Stating his desire for triathlon to become the 'Developing Club of the year' this season, the President is targeting even more points than last year. Smith and his inspiring team epitomise what competitive sport at the University of Birmingham is all about: a good structure, maximum commitment, but with an overall philosophy of fun and enjoyment.
Sport Thoughts Redbrick Sport writer Sam Barnett considers the phenomenon of derby matches in sport, and whether increasing globalisation has caused a decline in their sigThe enduring nature of the derby is perhaps the most remarkable dition that shows sport in its purest and most raw form: neighbour against neighbour, colleague versus colleague and even enemy versus enemy. 'Us' united on matchday by a love for our team and the subsequent disdain for 'them'.
globalised world a match based on tribal instincts should lose its apnot been the case. 24 different nationalities played in the Merseyside and North London derbies this weekend, yet, regardless of squad composition, both games peted. Yes, the coin throwing and abuse given by the Everton fans at corners was distasteful and petuderbies upon fans: people become maniacal. paid and often mercenary footballers, the derby allows players to display their passion for their fans, their club and the history they represent. Perhaps the most worrying aspect of derby matches is the canvas it gives for hate. Nationalism, overly fervent religion and pure hooliganism have been associated with derbies for years, frequently creating an undercurrent that simply stretches sport too far. But to temper this would risk censorpossible that globalisation will allow a broader view from fans and players, removing the ignorance
Rugby girls looking to mix it with the best Redbrick Sport's Joel Lamy caught up with women's rugby captain Garnet Mackinder, who believes last season's achievements will stand the team in good stead ahead of the new campaign Women's rugby captain Garnet Mackinder is hopeful that a 22-20 friendly win against rivals Loughborough can give the team the necessary belief to stay in the Northern Premier Division this season. The girls won a promotion to the top league after a great year which also saw them reach the losing out to Bath at the end. They have continued that form into pre-season this time around, with a narrow victory against a strong Loughborough side. Emily Dove scored a hat-trick for the home side and Emma Boyd also bagged a try, with Ali Moralee claiming the vital conversion which won the game, as the visitors
missed their own attempt to level the scores late on. For Mackinder, the victory was a welcome result, but more importantly, the match banished any pre-conceived ideas that the Birmingham squad might not be good enough to compete against the best sides in the division. She said 'We've just got promoted to the Premiership, so it's a good taster to what we can expect this season. was a bit messy and disorganised, the season and now we've got a lot to work on. 'Loughborough are mid-totop end of the table so we're really
happy because we feel we are at the standard of the Premiership. We were a bit worried we wouldn't be up to it.' Mackinder certainly felt the team deserve to be in the top division on the back of some dominant performances last year. But having made the step up, she hopes over a period of time Brum can cement their place as one of the top women's rugby sides in the country. She added, 'We were winning most games 60 to 70-0 last year, promoted.' 'The aim of this season is to chance to get towards the top of
unrealistic as we've only just got promoted, so anything above midtable would be a bonus. 'We've got a lot of freshers come into the squad, so we need to build for years to come and hopefully in a couple of years we can go for the win.' this year and hopes in the future to progress to the full England set-up having previously represented the under-20 side. However, for now her concern is to help establish Birmingham as a top division side, so that hopefully her successor can one day overtake Leeds Met who are, at this moment, still the side to beat.
and celebrating the spectacle? A globalised world has both accentuated and blurred the meaning of identity, with sport – and therefore particularly the derby – becoming essential to many ten unites more than it divides: emigrated fans, supporters who have never visited their club's nation or even 24 different nationalities battling over two perpetually sport is 'more than a game' is true, then it is never more so than in a derby and, perhaps, never more so
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This week in... 2003 Rio Ferdinand missed a drugs test which cost him £50,000 and an eight month ban from football. This resulted in the defender missing the 2004 European Championships, a competition he is yet to play in. 2004 Michael Clarke made his test debut for Australia against India, making a brilliant 151. The man they nickname 'Pup' has since gone on to play 71 tests with a batting average of 46.31, and was appointed full time captain of the test side earlier this year.
Couldn't make it up Manchester United goalkeeper David de Gea was in trouble last week after stealing a £1.19 doughnut from Tesco. The Spaniard insists he simply left the shop in order to get his wallet from his car, but was caught in a sticky situation. Jone Samuelsen potentially scored the world's longest range header in a Norwegian league game for his team Odd Grenland. After the opposition goalkeeper left his goal to come up for a corner, a powerful clearance ricocheted off Samuelsen's head and into the goal from 57 metres.
This week on the Redbrick website... Carlos Tevez
Mark Cavendish
trouble and Raphael Sheridan debates with Tom Williamson about whether the former Man City captain is completely to blame.
James Newbon discusses how an Olympic gold would give Mark Cavendish the recognition he deserves. The World Championship success topped off a fantastic year for Cavendish, but he could face his greatest challenge yet in London next year.
Mark Cavendish
The cyclist celebrated a win in the World Championships last week, which topped off a fantastic year. The Manx lad has also enjoyed stage wins at Giro d'Italia and the Tour de France and hopes to repeat his success at the Olympics next year.
Where are they now?
Rugby World Cup James Campbell reviews the Rugby World Cup so far, explaining that it's anyone's guess who will take the Webb Ellis trophy this year. The article also looks into England's progress so far and how far they can hope to progress in the tournament.
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The Roger Charlton-trained 4-year-old was impressive in winning two 2-mile handicaps in July, and with the booking of in-form jockey Richard Hughes, can give his trainer victor in the famous Cesarewitch Handicap.
in the form of a hat-trick against Barcelona. Now, Asprilla owns a farm back home in Colombia, where he also coaches football to children. In 2008 the Toon's
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1_2_3_4_5_6_7 _=_=_=_=_=_=_ 8______=9____ _=_=_=_=_=_=_ 0___=a_______ _=_=b=_=_===_ c_____=d__e__ _===_=f=_=_=_ g_h_____=i___ _=_=_=_=j=_=_ k____=l______ _=_=_=_=_=_=_ m____________ 19. Indonesian island (4) 21. One of the Normandy landing sites (5) 22. Scandinavian country, setting of Hamlet (7) 23. The _______ ______, 1941 film noir starring Humphrey Bogart (7, 6)
Youtube search: Socrates Brazil vs USSR 1982 The man smoked 40 cigarettes a day but this didn't stop him from scoring the goal of his life in the 1982 World Cup. After completely quick turns and dummies, Socrates smashed the ball into the top corner from 30 yards to help Brazil progress to the second round.
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Davis cup in Mexico, ever that Great Britain has won the title.
and Villains... After a very poor start in charge of Nottingham Forest, McClaren saw his team slump to 21st after ten games, with Forest yet to win at home. Throwing in the towel after only 112 days in charge is another dent to McClaren's reputation, after poor stints in charge of England and Wolfsburg.
Martin Atkinson
There is always drama in a Merseyside derby but Jack Rodwell will have felt hard done by after being sent off for a tame challenge which was at the very most a yellow card. Sorry Mr Atkinson, you got this one wrong.
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Heroes...
The Wednesday debate this week focuses on the unfolding drama centred around Carlos Tevez. This
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Sport 27
7th October 2011 www.redbrickpaper.co.uk
Editors – Sam Price & Joseph Audley
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7th October 2011 www.redbrickpaper.co.uk
Editors – Sam Price & Joseph Audley.
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Hannah for England Name: Hannah England Date of birth: 06/03/1987 : Oxford Degree: Biochemistry BSC Event: 1500 metres Sporting Idol: Kelly Holmes Honours: Gold – NCAA Indoor Championships and NCAA Outdoor championships. Silver – World Athletics Championships Joseph Audley Sport Editor
Ex-Universtiy of Birmingham student Hannah England took the 1500m silver medal at the World Athletics Championships in South Korea in September, an incredible achievement. Redbrick Sport spoke to her about what this meant and her hopes for London 2012... Can you tell us about the Daegu experience? Was it hard to stay focused over the three rounds? Well it's my third major championship. I did two last year, so I have had a bit of experience with rounds in the Europeans and the Commonwealths. It's really cool; you get a really good medical support within UK athletics, you plan it out so that you've got a good recovery strategy and it seemed to work.
did you adjust your tactics for I didn't really a whole lot, I tried not to run as wide as much as I did a lot faster so that wasn't such an issue with it being more strung out. I guess I just tried to forget about to plan and just start from scratch! Did the disappointment of missing out on the Beijing Olympics in 2008 and the Berlin World Championships in 2009 serve as motivation for your success in Daegu? Yes, and I also had other progressions that showed me that I was improving and it wasn't all negative, so that helped spur me on as well. I knew I was good enough to make this team; I just hadn't quite got it right for the trials, so it was good to do that last year and make the European Championships so I could build on that this year.
Hannah England shows off her silver medal
Tom Flathers
from the disappointment of missing out on the Barcelona
European last year?
Championships
had another few races after Daegu that went well so now I'm going to start my winter training. I'll be mainly based here at the university and I'll do a few trips for altitude to Kenya and France. I had a good season and will be trying to do a natural progression. Would you say that a silver in the World Championships is your biggest achievement so far? Yes! It's quite weird having something much better than anything I've ever done because I have things that I'm proud of but they're nowhere near as good!
'I didn't overthink
Pretty good! I was tenth in Europe last year and I would have been happy with tenth in the world, that would have been a good progression but I managed to get a bit better than that! your experience in the World Championships this year? I always knew the championship would be a very harsh and competitive environment and I really experienced that at the Europeans, you couldn't switch off for a second so I guess I was more ready for that. mind during the last straight of the World Championship At 200m I remember counting and thinking I'd already had a good race and I was relieved because you get a lot of people who really underperform. I did that a bit in Barcelona last year, so I was glad I was having an all right race. And then I just relaxed and I think that's why I came through faster than the other girls. I didn't overthink it, I just let the adrenaline go. There was a really good crowd there that got behind every event and it was also
it, I just let the adrenaline go.' What sort of grounding did the University of Birmingham give you? I had a sports scholarship the whole way through my degree, which helped me be a more professional athlete. They have a really good support network in terms of getting you to develop all aspects of your training and professionalism. That helped a lot and now I'm lucky enough to have a graduate sports scholarship, again supported by the sports centre, which gives me the best facilities and continuity from undergraduate to postgraduate education. hero? Kelly Holmes. If you're a fan of athletics you would have known who she was before Athens and I was thought she was amazing.
it's rare to for me to be in a race as the only British runner.
vice did she give you?
pressions did you get of the
She does a mentoring programme, which I started on when I was 17. Her primary aim is to reduce the dropout rate of girls and she's achieved that and now I'm a bit older and racing at a higher level, she can really give some very spe-
surface? It was pretty cool! It's massive, it
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stadium I'd ever been in. I don't things like the walkways around the complex but the venues are What are your preparations for next year's Olympics? I'm on my break at the moment, I
the future? Well I'm 24 now so I've got at least another six years of racing and it's exciting to be at this platform already. I'm pretty young to get a world medal and I hope to build on that and keep training here.
INSIDE Turn to page 26 to read about how the women's rugby team is aiming to continue their winning ways after last year's success