Redbrick - 3rd February 2012

EST. 1936

Redbrick Friday 3rd February 2012 | Volume 76 | Issue 1405 | redbrickpaper.co.uk

Check out Redbrick's online coverage of the US elections See the full microsite at www.redbrickpaper.co.uk/uselections

Miss Undergraduate competition condemned by Guild of Students Rhian Lubin Reporter

The Guild of Students has opposed the new event 'Miss Undergraduate Birmingham', claiming that the competition is sexist and objectifies women.

The beauty pageant was launched on Tuesday 24th January and is run by 'Touch TV' at Birmingham nightclub Chameleon in association with Breast Cancer Research.

The Guild has publicly refuted the competition, stating on their website, 'we condemn this event, viewing it as an obstacle to equality and as an expression of social values which damage the health and happiness of students.'

In the first heat, contestants were judged on how well their hair and make-up was applied and how they responded to the questions posed to them. The two questions asked were, 'If you were to design a fashion magazine cover, who would you have on the front cover?' and 'Why do you think you should win Miss Undergraduate?'

One hopeful contestant studying at Birmingham City University, Laura Tranter, responded that the judges were looking for contestants who were 'well-rounded, with a strong sense of themselves'. With regards to the accusation

that the competition can have damaging effects on the confidence of young women and how they are perceived, she said that 'the competition does not harm the attitudes of women, if anything it highlights us as being more independent and determined to succeed.'

The Guild of Students' Women's Officer, Kelly Rogers, said that 'the competition essentially embodies the way women's bodies are regularly objectified nowadays.'

Rogers continued saying 'there is a group of students who are planning an action against this event, and these students make me proud to be a woman at the University of Birmingham.'

Miss Undergraduate is partly for charity, with 20 per cent of the profits going towards Cancer Research UK and collections being taken during each event. The girls will also be judged on how much money they collect on the night.

When asked if this changes her outlook on the pageant at all, Rogers said 'raising money in this way, by presenting and judging the way women look seems to me to be a massively insensitive tactic to veil a controversial event under the pretence of charity-work.'

The competition will conclude on 21st February, when the winner will be crowned 'Miss Undergraduate Birmingham'.

See Life&Style for further comment on the event, p20

'The competition essentially embodies the way women's bodies are regularly objectified nowadays...there is a group of students who are planning an action against this event, and these students make me proud to be a woman at the University of Birmingham.'

Kelly Rogers, Women's Officer The Guild of Students

Jo Thomas

2

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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 Director Jeremy Levett News Editors Anna Hughes Kerrina Gray Rhiannon DoyleMaw Online News Editor Freddie Herzog news@redbrickonline.co.uk C&F Editors Amanda Callaghan Oscar French Elisha Owen Online C&F Editor Owen Earwicker features@redbrickonline.co.uk Arts Editors Lexie Wilson Alexander Blanchard Online Arts Editor Anna Lumsden arts@redbrickonline.co.uk Music Editors Will Franklin Tamara Roper Online Music Editor Josh Holder music@redbrickonline.co.uk Television Editors Charlotte Lytton James Moore tv@redbrickonline.co.uk Film Editors Genevieve Taylor Isidore Sanders Online Film Editor Matthew Clemens film@redbrickonline.co.uk Food Editors James Morrison

Jordan Warner Online Food Editor Rosie Sharratt food@redbrickonline.co.uk Life&Style Editors Sophie Cowling Lara Edwards lifestyle@redbrickonline.co.uk Travel Editors Emily Booth Louise Spratt Online Travel Editor Will Spence travel@redbrickonline.co.uk Technology Editors Joshua Lindsey Ruth Bradley Sam Atkins Online Tech Editor Dan Lesser technology@redbrickonline.co.uk

ARTS

Da Vinci's pupil's painting discovered Prado museum in Madrid has discovered a painting Leonardo da Vinci's pupil painted alongside him. This is said to give more insight into how the Mona Lisa really looked. The discovery has been called 'nothing short of remarkable.'

Crossword Editor John Rizkallah Senior Editorial Assistant Kate Selvaratnam Editorial Assistants Ellie Jarvis Isabel Mason Sarah Musgrove Elisha Owen Ravina Khela Ellie Smallwood Online Editorial Assistants Rosie Pearce Josh Taylor Eimear Luddy Junior Art Directors Lauren Wheatley Sophie Rogers Akhil Kothari Proofreaders Jenny Kirby Nicola Barton Hannah Ennis Catherine Holding Community Manager Sophie MurrayMorris

Designed and typeset by Redbrick.

Copyright (C) Redbrick 2012 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 redbrickpaper.co.uk 08451

Advertising: Contact Aimee Fitzpatrick in Guild Marketing on 0121 251 2524

TERRORISM

Four admit to London bomb plot Four radical Islamists have admitted to plotting to detonate a bomb at the London Stock Exchange. The men, who are all British nationals, are said to have been inspired by the death of the radical Anwar AlAwlaki.

Overheard on campus 'This mushroom soup, it really tastes of mushrooms.'

'Participating in my first ever pub quiz, feeling a tad emosh'

'Now I've finished my Gavin and Stacey boxset I don't really know what to do with myself'

'Everyone's had a close encounter with a skunk, right?'

'Just found out our hot tap works! I've been turning it the wrong way round since September'

TECHNOLOGY

Sport Editors Sam Price Raphael Sheridan Online Sport Editor Joel Lamy sport@redbrickonline.co.uk

Redbrick is printed through www.quotemeprint.com: 300667.

Redbrick

3rd February 2012

Net gets tough on internet snoopers

'What's horizontal? Is it across or up-down?'

A new warning system will be implemented allowing users to opt out of Online Behavioral Advertising. The new system will require all advertising networks to draw attention to adverts generated by 'cookies' at work on their computers.

'I read a car safety leaflet last night and am now concerned I need a booster seat to drive my own car'

'Hovercrafts?

I always thought they were made up' 'Do tortoises have ears?'

'I keep getting offered loads of work experience, it's really annoying' 'I went to Sainsbury's to buy bed linen. Came back with a bottle of vodka, a bottle of tequila, and no bed linen' 'I was like: Lemsip, get in me' Overheard anything funny on campus?

Email us at news@ redbrickonline.co.uk

SPORT

POLITICS

US ELECTIONS

John Terry pleads 'not guilty'

Former RBS chief loses knighthood

Romney comes out on top in Florida

England football captain John Terry has pleaded 'not guilty'.

He will stand trial over the allegations that he racially abused QPR defender Anton Ferdinand at a Premier League match in October. The trial date is set for the ninth of July.

The former chief executive of RBS, Fred Goodwin, has been stripped of his knighthood due to his part in the recession However, ex – Labour chancellor Alistair Darling said the decision appeared to have been 'taken on a whim.'

Mitt Romney, the Republican candidate nominee, scored a victory in the primary election in Florida. Romney polled 46% with his nearest rival Newt Gingrich gaining 32% of the final vote. The winner of the campaign will take on Obama in the November elections.

The Middle East: for beginners. Part two Patrick McGhee Reporter

Iran The Islamic Republic of Iran was formed in 1979 after the Shah was overthrown and replaced by Islamic clergymen. Taking office in 2005, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad is the currently elected president, but the Supreme Leader, a religious figure appointed by clerics, holds presidential, judicial and military power.

Recently, relations between Iran and the West have become increasingly bitter. In late 2011, the Iranian parliament voted to downgrade diplomatic relations with the UK, while the United States Senate imposed economic sanctions.

Subsequently, rioters stormed the British embassy in Iran, thought to have been carried out with the support of the Iranian government.

In December, the government announced that it would not return

a US drone it captured earlier in the month. A report released by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has renewed concerns over Iran's nuclear programme, but the government maintains that it is only pursuing peaceful nuclear technology.

In January of this year, as a result of the nuclear issue, ministers in the European Union adopted new oil sanctions against Iran.

Iraq The political situation in Iraq has long been viewed through the prism of American intervention in 2003, but the country's history is far more complex. In 1968, a coup led the Ba'ath Party into power, with Saddam Hussein becoming president in 1979. By 2002, President George W. Bush was warning about the increasing dangers of Iraq.

In March 2003, the United States led an invasion of Iraq, which led to the downfall of the

Hussein regime. Saddam Hussein was captured, put on trial and executed. The Iraq War led to destabilisation and the intensification of factional conflict in the country.

The last US troops left Iraq in December 2011, bringing an end to the United States' 8-year military involvement in the country.

Upon the US exit, President Barack Obama said that 'we're leaving behind a sovereign, stable and self-reliant Iraq, with a representative government that was elected by its people.' Despite free elections in country, the political system is divided between Shia and Sunni Muslims.

Israel Israel was formed in 1948 with the aim of establishing a homeland for Jewish people, and came in the wake of increasing desire to set up a Jewish state after the Holocaust. Jews, Muslims and Christians consider the settled land holy, but the Palestinian population was displaced

when the Jews established themselves in the region.

Two areas of particular contention are the Gaza Strip and the West Bank. Israel had occupied the Gaza Strip, a section of land to the west of the region, for nearly forty years until 2005, when military forces and settlers were removed.

Hamas, a militant Islamist group took over in 2007, prompting Israel to step up restrictions on the area.

The following year, Israel attacked Hamas after the group launched rocket offensives from the Strip. The West Bank is an area to the northeast of Israel, where the Israelis have established housing settlements that have been said to breach international law.

Israel has benefitted from financial and political reinforcement from the United States, but is generally unpopular in the Arab community. There have been a string of negotiations attempting to reconcile the Israelis and the Palestinians, but disagreements over the issue of settlements, borders and the position of the holy city of Jerusalem have proved to be stubborn obstacles in the dispute.

News 3

3rd February 2012 redbrickpaper.co.uk

Redbrick

News shorts compiled by Abbi Schule

Look Beyond the Gimmicks James Phillips

A day in the life...

Johnny Dolan, Guild Council Chair

SCIENCE

Scientists discover how to 'mind read' Scientists have demonstrated a method in which they can reconstruct words, based on the brain waves of patients thinking of those words. The technique relies on gathering electrical signals directly from the patient's brain.

which will usually be playing Madden on the Xbox, or catching up on 4od, until I nod off at about 2am.

As Guild Council only happens twice a term, preparation starts a few weeks before so that all of the different concerns and issues are well researched and prepared before the day.

The first thing I have to do on the day of Guild Council is get up and go in to my 9am lectures, as a Physics student I have twenty contact hours a week and so this is a regular part of the day! After spending the day being a physicist, I get over to the Guild for 4.30pm, which gives me ninety minutes before Guild Council begins.

I am then briefed by the mentors at Student Voice. They make sure I am clear on all the issues and am entirely prepared - they do an amazing job and are always fantastic support. I then make time for my prawn mayo sandwich and crisps before things start to become more rushed and hectic.

Over the next hour we work hard to make sure everyone is hap-

py before the Guild Council starts.

I will speak to some of the students beforehand – this is where I feel I come into my element as Guild Chair. Students come to me if they are nervous about making a speech, or want to make sure an important issue comes up. I reassure all students that they need to bring nothing but their opinions.

After all, the Guild Council belongs to them, not me. This is the point where I feel I come most into my element as Guild Chair.

At 6pm the Guild Council begins - by this time I am in my official baby blue top and about a hundred people have filled up the room.

For the next four and a half hours, we discuss the various issues across the University – my job here is to make sure that each topic has a chance to be focused upon, so I may have to change the speed of things or restore some order depending on the reaction within the room. This all comes to a close between 10pm and 11pm.

I get back home at about 11.30pm and start to wind down,

BIRMINGHAM UNI

UNITED KINGDOM

FILM

FOOD

Coast presenter to become professor

Olympic Flame will arrive in May

UK box office takes £1.04 billion

3 year old prompts tiger bread rename

Alice Roberts, known for presenting programmes such as Coast and The Origins of Us, has been appointed as a professor of public engagement in science at the University of Birmingham. Roberts will teach and undertake research.

The London 2012 Olympic Flame will arrive in the UK at the Royal Naval Air Station Culdrose on the Lizard Peninsular in Cornwall on the 18th May. The torch will then start its 8,000 mile journey at the helicopter base.

It has been revealed that the UK box office took over £1 billion last year for the first time.

Earnings rose by five per cent, with the final Harry Potter film taking £73 million pounds alone. The King's Speech took £45.7 million.

Sainsbury's have renamed tiger bread 'giraffe bread' after a letter was sent to the company by a three year old girl. Lily Robinson's letter, which criticised the name of the bread, went viral last year. Sainsbury's reply stated it was a 'brilliant idea'.

TRAVEL

Do you think Guild Council affects you?

TELEVISION

Lucy Williams Reporter

Trip Advisor asked to rephrase adverts The Trip Advisor website has been ordered to rewrite their marketing strategies and remove claims that their reviews are 'honest' and 'trusted'. The Advertising Standards Agency ruled that comments could be included without verification.

TRAVEL

Airport operator BAA loses Stansted The Airport operator BAA has been served a ruling that it must sell Stansted Airport. The ruling delivered by the Competition Commission stated that there were problems which adversely affected passengers at all of BAA's airports.

Kellie Coyle asked 100 students 'Do you think Guild Council affects you?'

Check out all the coverage of last night's Guild Council online at redbrickpaper.co.uk

US remake Only Fools and Horses British sit-com Only Fools and Horses is to be remade in the USA. The script will be written

by Scrubs writers Steven Cragg and Brian Bradley. It will be broadcast in America this year, provided the pilot is picked up for a whole series.

GUILD

FILM

WALES

Guild EMSO officer Carl Gayle resigns

Film receives UK rating after ban

Cigarette machine ban begins

The Guild of Students announced that the Ethnic Minority Student's Officer resigned from his position last Wednesday. The announcement did not confirm the reason for his resignation but thanked him for his service.

Visions of Ecstasy has received a UK rating 23 years after it was the only film ever to be banned on grounds of blasphemy. The film shows 16th century Spanish nun St Theresa of Avila as she caresses Jesus' body on the cross.

A ban on cigarette machines has taken force this week in Wales, in an effort to cut the number of young people smoking. The ban was implemented in England in October, and Northern Ireland will follow suit in March.

Deputy Editor

With nominations for this year’s Guild elections closing on Monday 6th February, I thought I would take the opportunity of this editorial to make a plea to my fellow students ahead of the campaigning period. Being in final year, I can draw from the experience of observing and voting in the 2010 and 2011 campaigns. However, my major memories of the election periods consist of the colourful and comical gimmicks employed by sabbatical candidates to capture the attention and memory of other students.

Now, this is genuinely not meant to be construed as a dig at anybody in particular, but frankly these gimmick and nicknamecentred campaigns are childish, irrelevant and tedious. It is a problem with the system of campaigning in these Guild elections which has evidently been this way for some time. All voters are students, adults not children, and they should be trusted to vote on the credibility provided by the manifestos and statements made by the candidates.

Imagine if in the last general election David Cameron had gone by the pseudonym ‘Dynamite Dave’ and dressed as a giant red stick with a sparkler on his head, simply to become more memorable to the voters? No sane adult could possibly take him seriously.

The same should apply to our sabbatical candidates.

Admittedly, it would almost certainly result in a smaller number of voters, but is this a bad thing? What is better - 28,000 voting on the basis of who they saw dressed as a superhero on campus or 5,000 voting on the basis of agreeing with a candidate’s manifesto?

Having been based in the Guild with Redbrick for the past two years, I have got to know, to varying degrees, the work that some of the sabbatical officers have to do and the challenges they face. It is certainly not easy work, and all who currently or have previously occupied their positions should be respected for the intense job which they take on for a year.

To the student body, it is imperative that the people in these positions are elected on the basis of a strong manifesto that their voters truly agree with. The sabbatical team’s primary job is to represent students, and for this to work students must vote for who they feel actually represents them.

If you don’t care about it enough to think about it properly, then don’t just waste your vote on someone who wore a silly hat and gave you sweets when you were walking to the library. It is unfair on the students who will vote for what they believe in. So please, candidates, prioritise your manifesto over any gimmick you may want to flaunt, and students, look beyond the gimmicks.

Apology: Redbrick would like to apologise for any offence caused by the misspelling of Auschwitz which appeared on last week’s front cover (Issue 1404). We fully understand the cultural and political importance of Auschwitz, and can only express our deepest regrets for what was a genuine human error.

4 News

Redbrick

3rd February 2012 redbrickpaper.co.uk

Top 10 university cities in the UK for crime rates Nottingham 36.3

Manchester 33.8

Bristol 26.5

Leicester 25.4

Birmingham 24.1

University of Birmingham cheapest meal plan option Caroline Mortimer Reporter

A survey of a selection of Russell Group universities' Hall of Residence meals plans has shown Birmingham's to be one of the best value for money.

Taking into account the discrepancies between types of accommodation available at the eight different universities outside London that Redbrick surveyed, Birmingham was one of the most value for money in terms of what you actually receive.

Birmingham currently allocates £42 per week for catering services with this redeemable at the main Shackleton Hub and Fusion restaurants as well as several spots on campus including Starbucks, Monday to Sunday.

On average Birmingham provides 12 meals per week, in line with the average across most universities in the sample. Only the University of Leeds and the University of Sheffield provide more with some accommodation at Leeds providing 14 meals per week either at an unlimited value, or for £9.40 a day or roughly £54-63 a

Charlotte Wilson

week depending on accommodation type.

At Sheffield special 'eatwithUS' cards are issued to all students with catered students being provided with £42 a week to spend on an unlimited amount of campus food and drink and the ability to top it up, have it carry over to the following week and to collect reward points for free food and drink.

The University of Nottingham is on par with Birmingham allocat-

ing £47.61 per week, which can be used seven days a week but there is a £25 limit to how much can be spent on campus. Southampton and Manchester universities' meal plan entitlements range from 1014 meals a week and have no set money allowance but can only be redeemed in certain meal times in certain places.

The University of Edinburgh offers 12 meals a week Monday to Sunday but has a higher average rent of £166.50 per week for 2011/12 for these rooms compared with £139.17 per week (not including the individual apartments and studios available in Mason and Shackleton) in 2011/12 at Birmingham.

Finally the University of Warwick offers no catering facilities despite its rents costing an average of £107.17 per week compared with £97.92 per week for a standard self-catered single room with shared facilities in University owned accommodation in 2011/12 at Birmingham. However it does run a ten per cent discount card scheme on campus.

Zuki Majuqwana, Vice President (Housing and Community)

said, 'I'm really pleased to hear that catering costs in halls rank so favourably in comparison to other institutions across the country, as the quality of the Meal Plan service is something that I have been lobbying the University to improve since I was a Residents' Association committee member in my first year. The Meal Plan service has improved tremendously this year, moving onto campus for the first time making it a far more flexible scheme than it has ever been which

is something the Guild has campaigned heavily for.

There is still a long way to go in terms of making sure that University accommodation is affordable for all but keeping the additional in-hall services that the University offers, such as Meal Plan, as affordable as possible is a very good start.

I commend the University for their work in this area and look forward to working with them to further improve the value of accommodation here at Birmingham.'

Shackleton Hall, where Fusion and Rios are located S Walker on flickr

UCAS applications down after introduction of £9k fees Ravina Khela

Editorial Assistant

The latest UCAS figures have revealed that university applications from UK students are down 8.7 per cent from the previous year. This comes after the decision was made in 2010 to triple tuition fees, to up to £9,000, and comes into effect for students starting university in England this year. In the new system students will not have to pay whilst studying, and only begin to repay their loan once graduated and earning at least £21,000 a year.

The biggest drop in applications, of 9.9 per cent, is in England.

In contrast, there has been significantly less impact in Scotland where students do not pay fees, with a decline of 1.5 per cent.

Applications in Northern Ireland are down by four per cent, and demand has dropped by just 1.9 per cent in Wales where undergraduates will have their fees frozen at 2011 levels.

When plans for raising tuition fees were first introduced, there were fears that the prospect of such significant debt would deter many students from continuing their studies to degree level, especially those from low income households.

University Minister David Willets, however, stated that 'applications from students in the most disadvantaged areas have not been disproportionately affected, with a decline of only 0.2 per cent'.

The sharpest decline in uni-

versity applications has been from mature students. 'Nearly 2,400 fewer 30 – to 39-year-olds, and more than 1,000 fewer students over the age of 40'.

For many mature students who may already have a degree, the decision to return to education is an even costlier choice as student loans are only available for first degrees. Liam Burns, President of the NUS said that students falling into this category are 'likely to be unemployed people looking to gain skills for work, those who had been shut out by student number controls, or those with a range of other financial commitments and pressures'.

Other trends revealed by these figures are that there has been a bigger drop in male applicants (8.5 per cent fall) than in females (6.7 per cent fall); that there have been signs of increased UK students applying to study abroad at institutions such as the £1,500 per year Maastricht university; and an 11.2 per cent fall in applications from European students who must pay the same fees as British students.

Despite this, the demand for places will still surpass the number of places available this year.

'Demand for higher education is not only strong – it's actually rising over the long term', with 16 per cent more applications now than three years ago; suggesting that the current statistics are following a pattern seen in recent years where 'applications in the first year of higher fees has been followed by increases in subsequent years'.

Statistics to represent the percentage fall in applications in various areas Information provided by UCAS

News 5

3rd February 2012 redbrickpaper.co.uk

Redbrick

Figures represent per 1000 population 2008-10 Source: thecompleteuniversityguide.co.uk

Coventry 22.0

Southampton 22.0

Leeds 21.9

Sheffield 18.0

Liverpool 21.0

University of Birmingham launch school Dominic Jackson Senior Reporter

The University of Birmingham recently unveiled plans to open a pioneering 700-pupil university school and sixth-form near its historic Edgbaston campus.

An application to the Department for Education is currently being submitted which if

The University of Birmingham

approved will establish The University of Birmingham School and Sixth Form.

The school, which intends to open its doors to students in 2014, will be a comprehensive co-education state institution focusing on traditional academic subjects such as science, technology, engineering and maths.

Emphasis will be placed on

Millie Guy

widening participation in higher education and preparing students for study at the University of Birmingham or other top institutions in the Russell Group.

Pupils at the school will be expected to study three sciences and a modern language at GCSE. It is intended that the school will also have a strong international element, with students having the option to take the International Baccalaureate as an alternative to A-levels.

If approved, the school would first intake 150 pupils into Year 7 and 200 into the sixth form.

Professor Edward Peck, head of the College of Social Sciences, said that the school would be a 'major player' in the field of teacher training.

He said, 'Having our own school will allow us to explore and research teaching methods. It will

allow the University to be a key player in the development of teacher training, and through partnership to other schools in Birmingham we will be able to enrich education across the city.'

If the proposals are successful, the school will become one of the first university training schools in the country.

The training school model, which was first outlined in the Schools White Paper in 2010, would combine three key functions of teaching pupils, the training and development of trainees and teachers, and educational research.

One high-ranking city educational specialist did however express concerns that other schools in Birmingham could be 'destabilised' as a result. 'No-one can compete with a university, so the impact it could have on local schools will be interesting.'

Students aim to 'Reclaim the Guild' Freddie Herzog Online News Editor

A campaign was launched today by a group of students wanting to improve the way the Guild of Students works, particularly focusing on democratic structures.

The main aim of Reclaim The Guild is to put 'students and their elected representatives back in control over the way the Guild works, and making it more responsive to what we, the students, want as well.' The campaign focusses on calling a 'General Meeting under Company Law' which needs at least ten per cent of the student body to sign a petition in favour.

The petition is currently in circula-

tion and is in accordance with Article 43 of the Guild articles of association which states: 'The Trustees may call a general meeting at any time. The Trustees shall call a general

meeting on receiving a requisition to that effect, signed by at least 10% of the Members [student body] having the right to attend and vote at general meetings. In default, the requisitionists

The Reclaim the Guild group

Chris Hutchinson

may call a general meeting in accordance with the Companies Acts.'

Reclaim The Guild believes that the current structure of the Trustee Board for the Guild of Students needs changing. At the moment the board can over turn any decisions made by elected councillors or sabbatical officers.

It has compared the composition of trustee boards at twenty different Russell Group student unions (including the University of Birmingham) and found that Birmingham has the lowest amount of student representatives compared to non student members and is the only board not to have a majority of students.

Drinking rules change for Joe's bar staff Dominic Jackson Senior Reporter

The Guild of Students has recently imposed a series of policies restricting employees at the student bar Joe's from drinking water and soft drinks whilst on shift.

Much to the dismay of many students who work at Joe's, it was announced shortly after the start of second term that staff would be unable to drink water or cordials whilst behind the bar on the grounds of health and safety regulations.

Staff were made to wait until their break where jugs of water were provided for any thirsty employees. Rules were later relaxed to allow staff to consume a limited amount of water during their shift.

Several students who are employed at Joe's have come forward to express their discontent at the recent decisions. One student, who wished to remain anonymous,

said that it was 'utterly ridiculous' to deny bar staff any drinks whilst on shift. They claimed that Joe's had always been unusual in only previously allowing water and cordials to be consumed behind the bar in contrast to practices at other catering establishments. 'I've worked in many bars and restaurants and we have always been allowed to drink any soft drink behind the bar.'

Another student, who also refused to give their name, complained that it was unfair for staff working at Joe's on club nights, such as the popular Fab and Fresh, to be expected to stand behind the bar for hours without any drinks in a hot and humid environment.

They commented that club goers, whether they were drinking alcohol or otherwise, would be reminded to keep well hydrated throughout the night and that the same advice would be relevant for bar staff.

Hugo Sumner, Vice President

(Democracy & Resources) said, 'Student and core staff working in Joe's have access to, and are allowed to drink, as much water as they want whilst on shift; they also have access to cordial supplied in their staff room. In line with national regulations and Guild

policy, bar staff are not allowed to drink whilst behind the bar, this is common practice throughout the hospitality sector.'

Last October Joe's was named the 'Best Student Bar' for the fourth year running at the Best Bar None awards.

Education News Kellie Coyle Reporter

Edinburgh offer chance to use laptops in exams Edinburgh University are offering first and second year students a choice between handwriting and typing their essay-style exams.

Ofqual's former chief executive Isabel Nisbet has argued that students should be tested with the tools they use to learn, however only around 1% of the students opted to use a laptop.

'Drinking is biggest problem at university' A student has recently suggested that the rising fees are not the biggest problem at universities: the biggest problem is alcoholism. A spokesman for Alcohol Concern claims that 'habituation' is the real issue; whilst some can leave heavydrinking at university, others cannot. He suggests that 'more needs to be done on campuses to keep an eye out for students who are succumbing to addiction'. Peter Miller, NUS vice-president (Welfare) blames the cut-price drinks offers in student bars as contributing largely toward the problem, branding them 'irresponsible'.

Student numbers to be cut by 15,000 places The Government have announced that university student numbers are to be slashed by 15,000 this autumn in order to cope with an unprecedented rise in applications. The 10,000 extra places allocated last year are being withdrawn, with a further 5,000 places being removed as a safety net for universities that over-recruit.

Pam Tatlow of million+, a university thinktank, has said that the reduction in student places is 'likely to dash the aspirations and ambitions of many well-qualified applicants'.

Entry level pay to increase by four per cent According to a poll of more than 200 blue chip employers, entry level pay is to increase by an average of 4%, however vacancies are to decrease by 1.2%. Starting salaries have remained static at ÂŁ25,000 since 2009: the Association of Graduate Recruiters say this year's rise is the biggest since the credit crunch and take it as a sign that 'the market is predicted to remain relatively stable'.

Students in Joe's Bar

Oliver Swain

6 redbrickpaper.co.uk

3rd February 2012

Redbrick

Comment & Features Editorial Owen Earwicker Comment and Features Online Editor

Innovation should not be at the expense of focus

Innovation can be a double-edged sword in many respects. There is a need for concepts to be kept fresh, to be developed and expanded beyond consistency. However, there is risk that over-innovating can cause one to forget focus and original purpose. In the media industry, innovation is paramount for survival. As new developments arise, news must keep up.

The latest buzz term for the industry is 'digital first'. It's a name which is inherently misleading and controversial, but the concept itself provides the lifeline which the papers so desperately need. The idea stresses content, though the term suggests online must be the priority over print. 'Digital first' is about changing a thought process; it requires a journalist to carefully consider where content is best suited and what can be done with it to make it more interesting and dynamic, using all the tools available.

Under this term, Comment & Features has worked hard to keep the section vibrant and different. With new ideas such as the Comment Cartoon, and this week's Opinion Matrix, we have worked hard to keep the print side of things fresh. Online, we've developed a new homepage to coordinate and display content on the US presidential elections. Soon, we will have a Features video podcast, where our content of the week will be discussed, exploring the research and ideas behind each piece with our writers.

Content is the core of what we do.

Without good content, we simply do not have a section.

It is important, however, that all these new developments do not impinge the focus of our journalism. Content is the core of what we do. Without good content, we simply do not have a section. I believe our new innovations allow content to be enhanced. The paper is changing to present content in ways beyond block text, but not forgetting that the life blood of a Comment section comes from in depth exploratory writing. Online is presenting content in different ways to keep it interactive. And our plans for a Features video podcast will focus wholly on our week's content, going into further depth than is allowed by word limits.

Innovation in all aspects of life is crucial to the survival of media, particularly in the fast-paced world demanded by the internet and users of it. However, it is crucial not to lose sight of original purpose. Otherwise, innovation threatens all that we do.

Britain's satirical saturation James Dolton asks if our national thirst for mockery is safeguarding the establishments it aims to critique

In modern Britain, particularly when describing creative output, 'Satirical' is an overused adjective.

Any sort of edgy television show, and especially any that contain either of the vast topics of 'News' or 'Comedy', is an example of 'satire'. Any comedian who draws humour from modern society is satirical, and because they all seem to appear on these News-Comedy shows in a weird revolving door of whose-too-big-for-the-clubsand-too-small-for-Wembley, that pretty much encompasses all of them. Opinion or editorial pieces are invariably always purporting to 'satirise' something, either with bold caricature or subtle understatement.

It is difficult to know exactly what the definition of satire is. So, as many a bemused student has before me, I referred to the source of all knowledge in the world.

Wikipedia decrees sagely that 'In satire, vices, follies, abuses, and shortcomings are held up to ridicule.' Now you think about it, all these supposedly satirical things seem to be having a pop at somebody or something. However the next part of the definition is odd.

Satire should apparently come 'ideally with the intent of shaming individuals, and society itself, into improvement.'

Ah. Really? Shaming individuals sounds true. 'Society itself', certainly. Think of all the comedians whose jokes are about the strange things that people do that are taken for granted: cuddly Michael McIntyre has forged a career out of it.

But it does seem strange to imply that these witticisms are intended for societal 'improvement'. I kept reading.

'Although satire is usually meant to be funny, its greater purpose is often constructive social criticism, using wit as a weapon.'

In my mind, this is the crux of the matter, and is indicative of the fact that modern satirists have somewhat missed the point.

Take, for example, Have I Got News For You, BBC1's stalwart satirical comedy programme.

Paul Merton is all good humour and poor shirt selection, and can usually be relied on to say something stupid and charming two or three times an episode, as he has done interminably the early 90s.

Ian Hislop, much like the Private Eye publication that he edits, is all acerbic wit and thinly veiled rage, probing the ragtag band of journalists, former and current politicians and public figures the production

Letters A reader's response to last week's cover story: Business course fails to return half of first term's coursework on time

team can drag behind the desk.

The trouble is that the program doesn't go far enough. After every catty remark on a public and political issue or a private and risquĂŠ one, the audience, the rest of the panellists and us sat at our TVs all guffaw, the subject goes a little red (if they are even present) and then we all move on. It is all a little bit too cosy.

We laugh at the many inadequacies, vices and flaws that this sort of genre draws upon, but laughing doesn't do anything to re-

the issue or deflect attention away from actions that are morally and publically reprehensible.

We as a nation have a history of using irony for comedic purposes, and irony and satire are intrinsically linked. However we also have a proud history of thoughtful and significant satire: George Orwell's legendary 1984 on the fears of an overbearing state is so embedded in popular culture, that 'newspeak', 'doublethink' and most famously the concept of 'Big Brother' are now recognised in the O.E.D.

solve them and often seems to make them acceptable: We jest where we ought to joust, so to speak. With Merton, Hislop, O'Briain, Boyle, Howard and co, we chuckled our way through the MPs expenses scandal, tittering at Alan Duncan's shameful comments that 'It was a great system' and that MPs 'have to live on rations'. Admittedly, some of the events were so ridiculous they could only be laughed at, like Peter Vigger's now infamous duck house, but these were laughs of exasperation and not indignation.

Russell Howard dealt with Nick Clegg's betrayal of students by inventing him a bizarre nickname. These issues can be and often are funny, but the humour shouldn't c l o u d

There is also Jonathan Swift's 'A Modest Proposal', a spectacularly caustic text regarding social welfare in Ireland that suggested sar-

donically that the English landed gentry could resolve the poverty situation by killed and eating those who suffered under it. This makes the gossiping and giggling of our modern 'satirists' seem rather forlorn.

As it is, we have reached a state where satire is so ingrained in our tools of humour that its edge has been blunted as a means of social critique. Our writers and performers must rescue it from the edge, or risk losing a key means of righteous condemnation and a method of improving society.

In satire, Hislop has the monopoly

Your cover story of last week's (27th January) edition is one of great concern. As a final year student at Birmingham Business School nobody is more concerned with the quality of the service which it provides.

I, like many of my colleagues, have indeed been subject to some delayed marks and feedback, however I do not feel this justifies the discrediting of one of our Schools. The vast majority of work I have submitted during my time here has been returned on time and well-marked, this is the norm as such it is poor to perpetuate different. Further this power scuffle making it into a well-respected student paper does nothing but drag the School, College and University through the mud devaluing the degrees we are all working hard for. The suggestion that students should vent our petty frustrations through the national student survey will serve only to lower the value of degrees further. I suggest students, and staff, learn where blame should lie and deal with issues internally and through the correct channels.

Timothy Charlton Final Year Business Management Student

Comment & Features 7

3rd February 2011

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Terrorist States: An American naughty list?

Giles Longley-Cook Commentator

The late Christopher Hitchens once observed that without irony, history would not be worth studying. This both highlights the more humorous aspects of the past and the tragic actions of the present.

The recent assassinations of several Iranian nuclear scientists was, whether one agrees with its aims or not, a blatant act of state terrorism. It was designed to cow Iran into halting their nuclear build-up. Israel, the country most likely responsible for the attack is one of America's closest allies.

The terrible irony lies in the fact that it is for actions of this kind that Iran is currently on the US department of State's list of nations that sponsor terrorism. Iran certainly deserves such a title but this event exposes just how much this list is, less of a genuine threat assessment and more a political tool used to intimidate uncooperative nations.

Israel is notorious for its use of collective punishment and acts of intimidation, such as sponsoring and arming extremely violent settlers to illegally fill the West Bank.

Both they and the United States have in the past supported foreign terrorist factions. For Israel it was the Christian Phalange militia in Lebanon. For the USA it was the brutal and corrupt Contra rebels in Nicaragua, a gang of drug-runners

and murderers whom Ronald Reagan had the nerve to compare to the founding fathers of America.

More recently, Pakistan, the USA's closest ally in Asia, would deserve an honourable mention, with its illegal nuclear weapons and active and passive support of terrorist groups.

The label is being used as gunboat diplomacy by hypocritical politicians In light of this poor track record it is hard to take seriously the listing of Cuba as a terrorist state.

Cuba's international ventures could hardly be described as 'terrorist' in nature, and the reasons given for their place on the list are more to do with their condemnation of American foreign policy.

Adding insult to injury the United States has also failed to bring to justice (and still harbours) the man responsible for murdering 73 civilians by bombing a Cuban plane in 1976, amongst other terrorist actions.

Rogue states such as Syria,

Sudan or (until recently) Iraq and Libya's inclusion on the list were well justified. But the willingness of America to include Syria in the coalition against Iraq in the 1991 Gulf war, having named Syria a terrorist state in 1979, makes one wonder how seriously they take this.

The reasons for being removed from the list are also subject to scepticism. Iraq was taken off in 2003, but looking at the situation there now, it is clear that it has doubled its capacity as a haven for terrorists. Even worse, North Korea, A terrorist state if ever there was one, was removed from the list in 2008 for agreeing to halt their nuclear weapons programme. What this had to do with terrorism remains a mystery. North Korea continues to hold its southern counterpart to ransom at the business end of a massive artillery force aimed at the 10 million inhabitants of Seoul. A situation they reminded the world of in a distinctly terrorist manner by bom-

barding the South Korean island of Yeonpyeong in 2010.

When such a regime can be deemed 'non-terrorist' it becomes clear that the label has little to do with identifying terrorist states but is more a form of pressure to make hostile governments play ball. It entails being embargoed and isolated both financially and diplomatically. All of this could be acceptable against certain rogue nations, but it

is clearly being used as gunboat diplomacy by hypocritical governments, causing the whole concept of anti-terrorism to be tainted and cheapened.

For further information. Read The Changing Nature of State Sponsorship of Terrorism by Daniel Byman

A nation of terrorists?

Opinion Matrix: Views on the News Written by Sarah Pullen, Oscar French, Freddie Herzog & Owen Earwicker

BUSINESS

EDUCATION

PARLIAMENT

ECONOMY

SCOTLAND

RBS Bosses stripped of privileges

Vocational Courses struck off league tables

MP's renegotiate terms of Welfare Reform Bill

Falling Chinese demand threatens recovery

Labour Leader makes fresh blunder

This week has not been a great one for Stephen Hester, Chief of RBS, who finally cowed to intense public and political pressure to wave off his one million bonuses. Hester's former boss Frank Goodwin, has been stripped of his knighthood by the forfeiture committee. Support for big-shot bankers is ever dwindling, a fact the government is keenly aware of. Cameron and his cronies have, in their power, the ability to punish the banking sector – but they won't, for fear of the fiscal consequences. Pressure on Hester and the removal of Goodwin's honour are crowd pleasers, nothing more. With RBS a shining example of the sector's greed, the public demanded blood and they got it. Hester might not have deserved his huge bonus, but I'm not quite sure Goodwin deserved to join the likes of Mugabe and Mussolini in having his title revoked either.

Tuesday saw the announcement that over 3,100 vocational courses are being cut from school league table results. These changes are being implemented in the wake of Professor Alison Wolf's Government review which suggested that these qualifications are overvalued by schools and worthless in the jobs and higher education market. It is a predictably short sighted response from the ConDems, if practical (vocational is a loaded term) courses are found wanting in the wake of their academic counterparts, they should be revamped rather than devalued. Why can't providing a skill sit alongside providing a place at university as a valid end game for education? Surely, with the student fees hike now fully operational, we need more alternative options for young people, as opposed to less.

This decision is elitist snobbery at its very worst.

In austerity Britain, reformation to the welfare state is an issue in need of care and consideration. We can therefore be relieved that the planned benefits cap was rejected in the House of Lords. Granted, it is reasonable to suggest that benefits should be brought in line with working household incomes, but numerous mitigating circumstances must also be acknowledged.

Charging single parents for the Child Support Agency when they have taken steps to reach a settlement is frankly alarming. At the time of going to print, MP's have already overturned several amendments, including the exemption of cancer patients from means testing. Unexpectedly, Labour are making most sense, proposing a local cap, based on independent commission. Fiscal responsibility may be important, but economic concerns must also be balanced by impact on lives.

Recent data has shown a decline in import and export demand from China. It seems the global crisis is starting to have an effect on the economic powerhouse. The Chinese import index has fallen from 49.3 to 46.9, showing that the Chinese people need less German cars, English muffins, poorly designed Scandinavian furniture, American junk food or whatever else it is the West sells to the world. Furthermore, the export index has fallen from 48.6 to 46.9, showing the West doesn't have the cash for fireworks, lucky cats or tea (shocking, there should always be money for tea!). The dip may seem inconsequential, but all things considered, these are significant numbers we're talking about. The markets look to countries like China to save us from the economic downturn, but if this decline continues, perhaps we really will be all in it together.

Edd Miliband's political simpering reached new heights this week after his PR stunt in Scotland. I agree with his view that Scotland should remain in the Union with England, Ireland and Wales. But the main focus of his speech in Glasgow this week was that when his parents came over to Britain from Belgium after being persecuted by the Nazis, they did not view Scotland as separate but as part of the United Kingdom. For someone trying to compete on the same rhetoric level as David Cameron, Miliband really is struggling.

The Leader of the Opposition has to be very careful about how he plays the Scotland issue as he has proved to be so against anything the current Government proposes.

He has now dug himself in a hole as he has to distance himself from the government but agree with it at the same time. An impossible task perhaps.

8 Comment & Features

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A fresh approach to Alzheimer's care Louise Rubbert Commentator

With Western societies facing an ageing population, it is no surprise that more attention is being given to the serious illnesses which we may develop later in life. With films such as The Notebook and The Iron Lady giving Dementia and more specifically Alzheimer's Disease a wider scope of public consciousness, and figures of those suffering from the debilitating illness reaching 750,000 in the UK, it is no surprise that alternative methods of care are garnering a significant amount of attention. One such project, which has attracted a great deal of interest, comes from Switzerland where an unusual â‚Ź2 million project has been confirmed in which a purpose-built village is to be constructed. Over 100 patients will reside in the village dedicated to those afflicted with Dementia, but there's a twist. The houses and shops are designed to evoke an atmosphere of a previous and more familiar era.

'Dementiaville' as it has been dubbed will predominantly care for sufferers of Alzheimer's disease, a type of Dementia which affects memory and in particular shortterm memory. In certain instances people believe themselves to be younger than they actually are and often become confused and upset by surroundings which do not correspond to what they think is true.

By pandering to the thoughts and emotions of these patients, the idea is that they will be happier and calmer. The plans have been

given the go-ahead after a pioneering nursing facility near Amsterdam has proved to be a success.

The logistics include houses which are decorated in a 1950s style, with music and television from the period. The illusion is further aided by the fact that carers will be disguised as gardeners and shop assistants, therefore creating a more independent and less invasive environment, which in Holland has meant that patients are less anxious as they are free to move around as they please.

However, the surreal approach is not free from criticism, with some branding it a 'ghetto for the mentally ill'. Michael Schmieder, the director of a luxury care home in Switzerland, has hit out at the plans stating: 'The very notion is an attempt to fake the normality that people with Dementia don't have.' Mr Schmieder's reservations might lie in the fear that there could be a division between those who have the funds to afford alternative superior care and those that could not. Although the concept is particularly innovative, it signals progress for the care of those with Dementia.

Lamentably, attempts to find a new wonder drug continue to come up short so the only logical explanation is to pursue all avenues of care possibilities. As the battle for the right to assisted suicide in Britain rages on and continues to be denied, we must acknowledge these innovative new approaches.

Of course residents of these types of facilities (or their guardians) will be paying a considerable amount

of money to try this alternative opportunity. Although if they can afford it it is hard to find fault. The Swiss have clearly understood that a wide spectrum of care options should be available and if there are those which are more radical then hopefully something can be learnt in the process which can be transferred to Britain's approach to handling this monstrous illness.

Of course there are certain elements which have to be taken into consideration as this would clearly not be suitable to all of the cognitively impaired but it's certainly a step in the right direction and a commendable effort. This is more can be said for the UK, particularly in light of the recent embarassing revelations regarding the failure to care for the most vulnerable of our society.

Don't get me wrong, I appreciate the hard work that many undertake in order to provide decent care in return for a pittance but too often are there damning cases of neglect and an existence which consists of being sat in front of a television for hours on end, to watch programmes they may not even understand.

Reports in recent years have outlined clear abuse of human rights in care homes and it's heartbreaking and bewildering that this can be happening in our so-called civilised society. More needs to be done to provide sufferers of this abominable disease with dignity and respect so I will be fascinated to follow the progress of these new facilities as it is a travesty that solutions to managing this illness are few and far between.

Dementia patients need intensive care

Democracy: An Officer's Perspective Hugo Sumner

Vice President (Democracy & Resources)

Of late, democracy in our Guild has come under greater scrutiny than ever before. The level of debate and engagement with certain sections of the student body has been fantastic, and as your students' union it's our duty to respond to what you, our members, have to say.

However, it's fair to say that as a Guild, we do not shout about

For an altern

our successes enough, especially in the field of democracy and representation, which is not seen as the most exciting of topics. Within the students' union sector, I am proud to say that we are seen as a leader in the field of democracy, having implemented a number of changes and reforms, at the request of students, over the last four years such as the introduction of Better Forums and a new, more representative, makeup of Guild

ative opinion

...

Take a look online at last week's article on the health of Guild Democracy – Search redbrickpaper. co.uk: 'Guild Officers: A Recipe for Success'

VPDR Hugo Sumner

Council. Additionally, last year's Officer Elections saw over 7,000 students voting, placing us fourth nationally for election turnout.

This is not to say that we are perfect, indeed far from it, however when put in a national context the Guild has a lot to be proud of.

This is evidenced by three of our most recent elections which took place earlier this academic year, in each we achieved record turnout. Most notably in our Guild Council elections we more than doubled last year's turnout with a 110% increase. This has meant that this year's Guild Council, acting on your behalf, has the strongest mandate in years, enabling Councillors to act in the best interests of you, their constituents.

Moreover, Guild Council has made the most of its mandate this year, proving more proactive than ever in representing and feeding back to its constituents, submitting a record 25 motions to February's meeting, as well as holding myself and the rest of the elected Officer Team to account. It is for this that Guild Council deserves a tremendous amount of credit, with special mention going to those Councillors who have made particular effort to open themselves up to their constituents by consulting and feeding back before and after meetings.

This is a process which should be taken as standard, however I'm looking forward to all Councillors eventually embracing this concept.

To respond to last week's article in Redbrick regarding Officer Elections and gimmicks, I believe

given the high profile nature of Officer Elections in recent years, students have rightly started to take more interest in candidate's policies and manifestos. When the Guild surveyed students at the end of last year, 49% told us you voted on policy, 38% on personality and the rest on 'other'. Criticism of elections being gimmick heavy has resulted in the Guild employing a brand new Vote Match module for this year's elections, a module which was successfully used at Leeds University Union last year, and led to the largest turnout nationally for any students' union.

The essence of Vote Match is that voters are asked to agree or disagree with statements for each Sabbatical Officer position, and are then matched to candidates based on their position on certain issues. This will not involve any substantial change to the e-voting system, however will give voters an extra weapon in their arsenal when scrutinising which candidates to vote for. Students will then be able to share their results with their friends through Facebook and Twitter, hopefully resulting in increased debate about policy, rather than gimmicks.

All in all, the Guild, your students' union, has a lot to be proud of, and you, our students, remain at the heart of every decision made.

We don't pretend to be perfect, and embrace constructive criticism and debate about our democratic structures, as that is the basic principle of any democratic organisation.

How do you solve a problem like...

Ed Miliband, 'Milibland'

Matt Hewson Commentator

Whew, I've set myself quite a task here. Where to begin? Ah, charisma. Charisma's quite useful when you're a politician. In fact, charisma is universally quite helpful.

Thankfully, good old Ed has bucketloads of the stuff.

Unthankfully, when Milibandthe-younger was out on his bucket-buying spree, he accidentally bought sieves instead of buckets.

Consequently (and you don't have to be eagle-eyed to notice this) Ed's lacking a little on the charm front.

His relationship with the media has been equally fractious. A frankly bizarre video, in which Ed repeats the same response to an interviewer's questions five times, simultaneously saw the politician mocked and gave credence to the theory that he's actually a robot.

Six months later, a tweet from his account (although ostensibly by one of his colleagues) led to the now infamous 'blackbusters' gaffe, a significantly less-than-fortunate typo that arrived just hours after he'd given Diane Abbott a ticking off for her 'racist tweet'.

His likeability-deficiency and lack of press-awareness seem set to permanently conspire against him.

In a recent interview with Politics Home, I'm reasonably sure that he fixed society, solved the energy crisis and prevented any future financial collapses.

Sadly, the same interview was both breathtakingly dull and crammed with crude soundbite politics such as 'you can't have a sticking plaster solution to the eurozone's problems'. As such, it was virtually unreadable.

Labour anagramologists have been heavily criticised for failing to notice that 'Ed Miliband' is an anagram of 'media blind' – had this been spotted earlier, it's thought it could have had a negative effect on his leadership campaign and thus have saved Labour from the mess which they now find themselves in (the same anagramologists were also heavily criticised for failing to notice that 'Gordon Brown' is an anagram of 'bigoted woman').

You're right, it really isn't an anagram.

All of this normally wouldn't matter. Normally the economy isn't in ruins, society hasn't collapsed, people have jobs and England are losing at the cricket. This isn't normally.

The global financial system is in meltdown, last summer's riots point to social problems of a similar scale and jobs are rarer than a delivered Lib Dem promise (though England are, of course, again losing at the cricket).

It's times like these that we need a decent political opposition, yet this seems to be exactly what we're lacking.

3rd February 2012 redbrickpaper.co.uk

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Comment & Features 9

A reader's response The future for UK's universities Sam Jones Commentator

The recent article on the continuing ascent of non-Western economies and the consequences it should have for Britain raised some important issues, but in doing so reached some worrying conclusions. Whilst the author was certainly correct in identifying the ongoing changes in the international economic hierarchy as a challenge that we need to face, his analysis of the history that led us to this point naĂŻvely paints a picture of Britain as an innocent player, unaware of some form of betrayal. I find it hard to believe that a citizen of one of the now rising nations would share the view of Britain as the 20th century's great victim.

As much as it pains me, I must offer a defence of our relationship with the United States, considering so much is said about the benefits, or lack of, our 'special relationship'. The US is accused of demanding extortionate returns on the aid given to us at the end of the WWII. The author is correct when he says that the loan was only fully paid off in 2006, but then goes on to claim that the low interest rate of 2% that he cites is more than offset by technology and global military positions.

The truth of the matter is that not only were we the largest recipient of Marshall Plan aid, which helped to resuscitate our economy, but large chunks of it were nonrepayable. As for the military positions, in most cases we requested the US to take over the military commitments left over from our days of undisputed supremacy,

saving us the unmanageable financial burden.

We agreed to these things because they were in our interests too. Considering the amount of support given to us in the fight against Germany even before the US joined the war, it also can't be claimed that the our need for help afterwards was the fault of our American friends.

The same is true regarding the author's criticisms of the more contemporary relationship. It's not a particularly uncommon view that our foreign policy lacks independence from that of the US, as is claimed, but our joint ventures have again been the result of Britain deeming it to be in its own interest. It's been hard adjusting to the loss of our great-power status, though for the most part we've coped by pretending it hasn't happened. By allying ourselves with a superpower we've managed to maintain some of our influence.

The author mentions Libya as a case in point; I couldn't agree more. It was estimated that of the 168 Tomahawk missiles fired in the opening weeks, only 7 (4%) belonged to Britain. I think it's safe to say that we gained more than 4% of the international status for our part.

Returning to the article's original point, we do need to make efforts to adjust to a world where our economy is comparatively smaller and our influence less significant.

We should recognise that our failure to 'take advantage' of the rising BRIC economies is code for our inability to continue bullying and exploiting the rest of the world, even with the help of the US.

Sarah Pullen Commentator

The future of government plans to open up the UK's tertiary sector to private providers is in question. It is not yet entirely clear whether the White Paper entitled 'Students at the Heart of the System' has been dropped, or merely delayed. The Daily Telegraph reported that the Higher Education bill, due to be introduced in the Queen's Speech, has now been shelved indefinitely, despite assertions from the Universities Minister, David Willets, that no final decisions have yet been made. Regardless, campaigners will still be breathing a sigh of relief, that finally the government has heeded concerns about the stability of the UK Higher Education system.

But any celebration of having stalled more changes to the nation's university system could well be short lived as there are concerns that change may be ushered in through the back door. Many of the reforms included in the White Paper could be implemented without being put forward as a bill.

Changes in fees and funding do not require legislation so there are mounting fears that such changes will set in motion without parliamentary scrutiny. There are also reports that this White Paper will be dismantled and that a separate, smaller bill focused on private providers will emerge from the woodwork at a later date.

It might look like yet another U-turn by the government, but it might well be a clever ruse, in the hope that they will get what they want, without having to confront

angry campaigners head on, like in the case of the hiking of University tuition fees. The Liberal Democrats have objected to yet more changes being made to the Higher Education sector, largely because the party still remains in the shadow of its broken promises regarding tuition fees. Cameron cannot afford for the Liberals to fight him on another Higher Education bill, especially when he needs them on side if he is to push through major changes in other areas of the country.

Cameron also does not want another bitter battle against angry students and academics to draw attention from the media and the public alike. Given his optimistic plans to take on reform of the House of Lords, as well as continuing to fight the war of attrition that

is the attempted NHS reforms, during the course of the next parliamentary session, he cannot afford to waste valuable political capital on another attempt at reforming the Higher Education system. But the government seems to be playing the long, and clever, game with regards to this legislation, and if it plays its hand well, then it should be able to preserve its capital. The changes proposed in the Education White Paper will be made behind closed doors and in hushed voice, in the hope that the public will fail to notice.

So for those congratulating themselves on having prevented Higher Education in this country from being opened up further to for-profit organisations the fight may well not be over yet.

Universities are changing

Comment Cartoon:

Former RBS boss Fred Goowdin is stripped of his knighthood Mr Goodwin was RBS chief executive in 2008 when the bank's near-collapse prompted a ÂŁ45bn taxpayer bailout.

Calls to annul his Knighthood were widespread.

Goodwin's annual pension is reportedly upwards of ÂŁ700,000.

Illustrated by Charlie Dart

10 redbrickpaper.co.uk

3rd February 2012

Music Britpop Jukebox

Redbrick

Blood Red Shoes announce new tour www.drownedinsound.com/news

Album Reviews 8 Charlotte Gainsbourg

8 Lamb of God Resolution

Stage Whisper

Matt Hewson Critic

Josh Holder

Online Music Editor

Oasis – 'Wonderwall' It's 2am on a Friday night; you're at Gatecrasher and feeling guilty for putting off that impending essay. Suddenly the introduction of 'Wonderwall' fades in and nothing else seems to matter. Noel's heartfelt lyrics are intensified by the passion that Liam injects into every song. Overplayed? Yes, but that's because it's one of the finest indie anthems of all time.

The Stone Roses – 'I Am the Resurrection' After listening to 'I Am The Resurrection', it's easy to see how The Stone Roses inspired a whole generation of musicians. The track features melodic, jangly riffs, stealing the limelight for a solo that lasts for over five minutes. Ian Brown's lyrics of 'I am the resurrection, and I am the light' see him propose himself as an almost godlike figure.

Pulp – 'Common People'

Arguably more famous for her acting than her singing, Charlotte Gainsbourg is one of the few artists who has bridged the cinematic/ musical divide in any notable form, or indeed with any success.

Her new double album Stage Whisper draws together a series of previously unreleased tracks and live material. The record sees material penned by Beck, collaborations with Noah and the Whale's Charlie Fink and everything from quiet folk ditties to thumping synth-pop output.

The album makes for an interesting listen; the single 'Anna' is a soft and attractive track, and many will find the pounding bassline of 'Terrible Angels' equally likeable (although the Tinie Tempah drums seem a little misplaced). Where it succeeds however, it also suffers.

Eight never-before-heard tracks pasted together in a seemingly wanton fashion make the album's first act seem disconnected and disparate. It's not a problem of inconsistent pace, more a lack of similarity in tone or theme.

Album part deux is formed of a number of live recordings. Again,

the material is all 'previously unreleased', sourced from both her albums, and elsewhere besides.

Gainsbourg evidently performs well live; 'Heaven Can Wait' remains as soulful as on record, and 'AF607105' (named for a flight and written by Jarvis Cocker, in case you were wondering) acquires a level of emotion that isn't quite present on record. On the whole though, the live material is rather dry. Nobody doubts Charlotte's ability as a musician or a performer, but the double-album's second half gives the overwhelming impression of being filler rather than anything close to killer.

As is often the way with these sorts of albums, previous fans of her work will enjoy this a great deal more than any newcomers. That's not to say it's without its merits however. Tracks like 'Paradisco' and 'Memoir' make for superb listening, but my overwhelming suspicion is that the live material could have been dropped and this collection wouldn't have been harmed too substantially.

Sounds like: Emilie Simon

4 The Big Pink

Jake Pembroke Critic

Any fans of Lamb of God will already know what to expect from the Virginian metal behemoths sixth studio outing; ferocity, ferocity and more ferocity. As a band, Lamb of God do nothing by half measures; their intensity unmatched by anyone in the metal scene. Lamb of God's recipe is a tried and tested one, taking the formula pioneered by Pantera in the nineties and accelerating it for the 21st Century.

Resolution showcases everything that has made the band a stalwart of the global metal scene and flag bearers for the New Wave of American Heavy Metal; Chris Adler's thunderous drumming providing the foundations beneath the twin assault of Willie Adler and Mark Moreton on guitars, topped off by Blythe's signature snarling vocals.

From the out, Resolution delivers a relentless pace, but it is difficult to see what separates the album from Lamb of God's last two releases, 2006's Sacrament and 2009's Wrath. In some cases, riffs have been seemingly transplanted from these albums

and into the songs on Resolution ('Ghost Walking' contains a riff with striking resemblance to perhaps the band's most famous song 'Redneck' and it is not the only instance of this on the album.) The band has a distinctive sound and show little desire to deviate from this, which is not a bad thing in itself as there is no compromise in passion between releases, but Resolution is more an exercise in polishing their long established sound than breaking musical boundaries.

Lamb of God have seemingly plateaued in terms of progressing their music, but there are far worse states for such a band to be in than releasing consistently devastating metal; the band are nothing if not at the top of their game. This said, closing track 'King Me' is perhaps the most interesting on the album, ranging from traditional Lamb of God to an almost symphonic metal requiem, and may offer a glimmer of hope that future releases may see a move away from their established sound and into slightly more experimental Sounds like: territory.

Pantera

8 Howler

Future This

America Give Up

There is so much emotion in the humorous lyrics of 'Common People'. The words are powerful and Jarvis Cocker's vibrant delivery does them justice. Just when you think the track is starting to end around the three minute mark, there's one final drum fill and the track explodes with another fresh lease of life. It's no surprise that it's the biggest hit of Pulp's career.

The Verve – 'Bittersweet Symphony' One of the most beautiful songs ever written. The soothing violins, unremitting bass, and frank lyrics all come together perfectly to leave the listener feeling empowered.

Could you be the new Will Franklin? Do you know a lot about a certain kind of music, a little about all kinds of music or pretend to know everything about everything? Redbrick is looking for a new Music Editor. Send applications to music@redbrickonline.co.uk Follow us on Twitter at @redbrickmusic

Rebecca Jones Critic

Pieter Colpaert Critic

Two years after their exciting and fresh debut The History Of Love, The Big Pink are trying hard to strike again. Second album, Future This, shamelessly aims for big, sing-along crowds, but end up sounding dull.

The album kicks off with single 'Stay Gold': a decent song – pompous and in-your-face – but in almost every aspect a carbon copy of their greatest hit, 'Dominoes'. This sets the tone for the rest of the CD: high production values and enough riffs to serve about a dozen less talented bands – but it just doesn't do it for us. Where their first album sounded pretty fresh and inventive, this one seems to rehash some of the old ideas, goes for the undemanding grand choruses and thus eventually sounds terribly unin-

spired.

We hear a jumbling of elektro, some emorock and even -with a lot of goodwill – something which tries to sound like a hip-hop beat.

Kudos for managing to transpose this into one, smooth and pretty radio-friendly sound. But anyhow, this is of little use: if you forget to write memorable songs, the album ends up sounding just a little bit too polished. One of the few songs to make us believe that this London duo has not lost it completely is '77' – the unexpectedly delicate and shoegazey closer for the album.

There's nothing wrong with going after a broader audience for your music, but if it is done in such an uninspired way, we seriously doubt if it will be very effective.

A missed opportunity for The Big Sounds like: Pink.

Tribes, S.C.U.M.

So we have it again, a new year and a new emergence of indierock guitar bands. Judging from their debut album America Give Up, Howler may just be the one to keep your eye on. They have already been named NME's 3rd best new band of 2011 and were included in their Top 100 bands of 2012. Fronted by Jordan Gatesmith, these Minneapolis boys have created an album that, despite the comparisons with other skinny-jeans-and-denim-jacket clad bands, sounds totally original.

Think love child of The Vaccines and The Drums, with Julian Casablancas as inspirational older brother. 'Told You Once' is the most Strokes-esque song on the album whilst 'Pythagorean Fearem' sees the band going all out dirty rock'n'roll. Their surf-rock side is revealed in 'Back Of Your Neck' and gives the impression that the album would have perhaps been

better off released nearer summer; the fuzzy guitars, weathered voice and feel good backing vocals makes the perfect soundtrack for a road-trip.

The album is not as angry or political as the album title suggests. In fact, if you're going to judge the album on anything, the first track 'Beach Sluts' is a good place to start, a catchy song filled with teenage attitude. 'Back to the Grave', with its 'woo-oo' chorus and single 'This One's Different' are screaming to be performed live, combining youthful charm with American-rock cool.

Criticism comes with the album length; just over 30 minutes long. But the impression is given that this band are allowing for space to grow. It's a brilliant debut that will leave fans anticipating their next move. Howler will no doubt be all over the UK festival circuit this summer. And you know what? I reckon they'll smash it.

Sounds like: The Strokes

Music 11

3rd February 2012 redbrickpaper.co.uk

Redbrick

Live Review The Maccabees HMV Institute 27/01/12

Redbrick Meets...

The Vaccines

Amy Davidson James Dolton Critic

The Maccabees returned to Birmingham to headline HMV Institute after the recent release of their new LP Given to the Wild. They emerged to the swells of the intro and title track of this record which bled into the opener proper 'Child', filled with elegant lead melody lines on horns and guitars.

The strains of 'Child' led immediately into a rendition of swirling album track 'Feel to Follow' where lead singer Orlando Weeks' trademark fractured vocal really took to the fore of the ambient proceedings. His intriguing habit of singing into two microphones marks their sound, giving it an ethereal quality.

After a short pause, they set abruptly into the frenetic rhythm of fan-favourite 'Lego', which was lapped up by the crowd. Guitarists Hugo and Felix White engaged in some Libertines-esque posing and microphone sharing, whilst the refrain was met with a crowd shout-a-long louder than the band themselves.

Indeed, this highlighted the key theme of the evening: whilst

their new album songs were technically fascinating, featuring short interludes of interplaying guitar lines and a fugue of tantalizing synthesiser lines, it was the older songs, particularly those from 2007's Colour It In that really captured the crowd's attention and imagination (with the exception of new single 'Pelican', which pulsated with energy). That is not to say that the new songs were not enjoyable; they had a sophistication that contrasted favorably with the more straight-forward earlier work.

However, it did give the show a slightly lopsided sense, as the crowd skipped from thoughtful head-nodding to frenzied flailing with schizophrenic regularity, occurring several times in the same song, such as in excellent main set closer 'Love You Better'.

The bands encore was a joyful rendition of 'First Love' which had its intro extended and slowed down, as though the band were savouring the passionate response it got. Finishing with 'Meet Me After Midnight', a jubilant coda with soaring vocals that filled the room.

With their first album released five years ago, there is no doubt that the Maccabees are maturing.

Critic

I hate clichéd statements about how lovely and down to earth bands are. But… The Vaccines are very lovely and very down to earth.

There. I said it, I'm sorry. Being in the top five fastest selling debut albums of 2011 allows you a little smugness and a degree of self-assuredness. However, when asked why they thought they sold so many records there was a notable reluctance to attribute this to any kind of musical superiority.

'I guess 2011's probably the lowest selling record in the history of music… I honestly don't know. I guess summer comes round and festivals happen and you see that people aren't paying money to go and see Ed Sheeran or Jessie J really, they're going to see Springsteen or rock bands. Guitars are an essential part of this country, they're indelible to our culture so I think people are just happy that there's a new guitar band'.

Evolving from both hardcore and folk influences, (frontman Justin Young was formerly acoustic folk singer Jay Jay Pistolet) The Vaccines are clearly proponents of musical candour.

'I think sincerity is never lacking in the vast majority of music, you don't have to worry about that but obviously there are aspects of it which may seem very insincere.

When you're talking about popular music, yeah it is probably lacking in sincerity, there isn't a lot of sincerity or the right kind of sincerity in what the X Factor do… it's pretty desperate sincerity, geared towards the wrong things'.

Despite being the critics' buzz band of the moment, which is more often than not a fatal accolade, The Vaccines have cemented themselves as far more than a transient fancy of the moment.

When asked whether they were deliberately embracing the hype in naming debut album What Did You Expect From The Vaccines? they replied: 'We were made such an easy target for all sorts of terrible puns that they were too easy to take, so none of the journalists actually took them. Although I've seen some bad ones like the first review that we had said something like, 'The Vaccines here to inject…'

You get a lot of drug puns… a lot of drug puns.'

Intrinsic to The Vaccines success is their refusal to mould themselves to critical expectation, talking about their next album they

explained, 'We put a lot of pressure on ourselves. I don't feel any external pressure but I feel a lot of pressure internally, that's normal'.

Although known for their concise, energetic songs, and being labelled by many as components of a post-punk revival, The Vaccines don't regard their rechanneling of guitar music as a defining feature.

'I think Puritanism in music is not necessarily a good quality. A lot of my favourite bands are massively referential and therefore not necessarily pure. The Horrors are great – they do what they want, how they want it and when they want it. Which isn't necessarily a good thing… difficult questions!

We weren't prepared for good questions… can you ask us what can you expect from The Vaccines?

I think Metronomy, Metronomy just go their own way and do whatever the f*** they want. There's lots of good bands… Sunshine Underground are a good band… The Cribs!'

With a completed Arctic Monkeys tour, a Brit Awards nomination, a top five best selling debut albums appearance, a second album planned for release this year and an abundance of tour dates, The Vaccines are securely on the radar for 2012.

Essential Albums

#22

The Doors L.A. Woman (1971) Jacob Lovick Critic

What Are You Listening To? On January 17th, two of Redbrick Music's most faithful, and two of the Guild of Student's biggest devotees, Matt Saull and Laura Schofield, stood outside the library with a sign and a video camera. Their aim: simply to ask those willing 'What are you listening to?'

After some editing and tinkering, Redbrick Music's new favourite tech nerd Jonathon Milnes has put the clips together and created one of the most telling videos the University of Birmingham has ever

seen. Simply go to http://redbrick. me/36072 for a peek at what your friends are listening to.

If you think you'd fancy standing (probably in the cold) outside busy buildings around the University of Birmingham then you're just the person Redbrick Music would like to meet. We meet at Wednesday at 4pm in Student Development in the Guild, and are constantly on the look out for people who have no issue going up to strangers.

The Doors divide opinion, even to this day. Some laud them as the greatest concert band to come out of the outlandish Twilight Zone that was the American 60s, others dismissed them as depressing 'cocktail jazz'. L.A. Woman, their sixth and last studio album, ending a tumultuous career with the death of lead singer Jim Morrison in July 1971, was perhaps the peak of The Doors astounding fusion of old-fashioned rock n' roll, a little bit of blues, lots of marijuana and Morrison's beatnik poetry, an ultimately lethal but extremely popular cocktail that gathered pace over The Doors' short-lived existence.

The album, said Jim Morrison, was 'blues. Original blues, if there's such a thing'. The album

was The Doors at their bluesiest peak, whacking out old covers of R&B legend John Lee Hooker's 'Crawling King Snake', and compelling even the most sober to roll a joint and drink jasmine tea with the kicking title track 'L.A. Woman'. One of the album's two singles, and perhaps one of The Doors' best-known tracks, 'Riders On The Storm', opens with the sounds of a smooth, distant, echoing bona fide blues band set against the crack and roll of a Deep South thunderstorm. I defy you to listen to this without feeling some sense of the rain falling around you, and the distant glow of a cool rhythm-and-blues gig twinkling on the horizon.

The album is a fitting last will and testament from the moribund Morrison, whose life was to be abruptly ended weeks after the al-

bum's release. A certain poignancy echoes out of lyrics like 'I need a brand new friend/The end' from 'L.A. Woman', or Morrison's clever and immortal repeated chanting 'Mr. Mojo Risin'' from the same song, playing on an inspired anagram of his own name. In this album do we see a full picture of Morrison at this stage in his life, a 'risin'' star whose trajectory was soon to be cut short. The album was an ultimate blues tribute from the band, ultimate in the sense that it was to be Morrison's last, but also because it was also the very definition of a hymn to one's own existence, a moving eulogy to the city of their birth and childhood. Morrison was right when he called the album 'original blues', because that is what it is. 40 years later, it is, as it was then, a true great, and never bettered.

12 redbrickpaper.co.uk

Television

3rd February 2012

Redbrick

Read Hannah Lloyd-Davies' review of The Big C at redbrickpaper.co.uk

There's Something About Sarah

Charlotte Lytton talks to Sarah Hadland, star of Waterloo Road and Miranda, about life in the limelight height of 5 foot, 1 and a half inches...

Stevie is famed for her impressions of Heather Small.

What was it like working with the woman herself for Comic Relief?

Doing the impression to her face was a bit weird, but she was so lovely and when she sang back at me it was incredible. Her voice is just SO powerful; it was like a wave of sound, very impressive. Also she had my face on a stick, which made it equally weird as I stood there holding her face on a stick!

Did you anticipate Miranda would do so well?

We are all thrilled and amazed the show has been such a hit. We were so nervous doing the first series as we just didn't know how it would be received. Turns out people falling over is still funny.

Is playing Linda in Waterloo Road very different?

She's a psycho - it's fabulous! I couldn't have asked for a more contrasting character to Stevie Sutton. I think most actors relish playing someone twisted!

Everyone loves a baddie, so it's great to be in such a different role.

Hi, Sarah! Many of our readers will recognise you from your role in Miranda. Can you tell us a bit about Stevie and what it’s like playing her?

Stevie Sutton is the best friend of the show's lead, Miranda. She manages (quite badly) Miranda's joke shop for her. She aspires to be on The Apprentice and thinks she is very efficient but actually

is just as rubbish as Miranda...

Are there any similarities between you and her?

I love playing Stevie - especially the slapstick comedy - and to be working with such lovely funny people like Miranda and Sally and Patricia is just brilliant. Stevie and I are both bossy and love a clipboard.

Interestingly, we share the same

How did you first get into acting?

Getting into acting for me was a long journey - I began in musical theatre but loved playing the character parts the most and really wanted to act. As I couldn't afford to retrain at drama school I just tried to get experience doing plays on the fringe for no money, learning as I went. There is, or at least was then, huge snobbery towards musical theatre 'twirlies' and it was hard work to even get seen for jobs. I was determined though and it paid off.

What has been your favourite job to date?

It's hard to pick a favourite job but

two jobs do stand out: Confetti, an improvised feature film. I auditioned on location and next thing I was improvising on camera with Alison Steadman as my mum, Jessica Hynes as my sister and Martin Freeman as my future brother in law! I put my dance past to use as horrific cruise ship dancer Jen, who was the sister-in-law from hell. My joint favourite also features Jessica - she wrote Learners, a comedy drama that I played Fiona in, opposite Jessica and David Tennant in a love triangle. It was bliss to be doing comedy and drama with two such brilliant actors who can do both equally well. I loved it and it was a dream come true to work with those actors. I feel very lucky to do both comedy and drama it's what I always hoped to do.

We are all thrilled and amazed Miranda has been such a hit Is there an actor you’ve particularly enjoyed working with?

I did a small part in a film called Now is Good this year and got to work with Paddy Considine - he is one of my favourite actors working today.

His ability to express simmering rage and be utterly terrifying, and then to make you laugh, is genius.

Can you tell us something that the public may not know about you?

I love camping - tents not drag, although I am a fan of that too!

What’s your favourite TV show?

Easy - The Killing, Danish version obviously.

A Novel Idea For TV

James Moore takes a look at the good, the bad and the downright dismal adaptations from books to TV The vast archive of world literature has always been plumbed for inspiration for the next batch of TV gems; indeed, the classics seem to be rehashed every year or so. Far from showing a lack of imagination in producers themselves, i t can be argued that they are i n fact very sensitive to the extraordi-

nary pool of creative talent represented in the writing community.

Perhaps the best of recent book adaptations is Sherlock on the BBC. What makes it so successful is perhaps its deliberate attempt to alter the source material, keeping characters recognisable but updating them to a contemporary setting making them more meaningful to a modern audience.

By consistently producing the same level of detail of the books while creating a sense of drama better achievable through TV, Sherlock shows how adaptation can enhance the stories first laid out in print.

Just as good and well worth a watch are Birdsong and Call the Midwife, currently airing on BBC1.

However, taking liberties with the source can lead to disaster, whether it is misjudging, and therefore miscasting, a char-

acter or simply changing the book to the point it loses its meaning.

Even the BBC cannot seem to avoid the pitfalls of adapting novels, even when the foundation is one of the most famous in British science fiction. The show in question was the interpretation of John Wyndham's Day of the Triffids. In 2009 the show demonstrated the worst aspects of adaptation to television. The crew seemed to completely miss the ideas of the book: the blindness of the majority of society and the moral collapse of those left with sight was Wyndham's deeper message, not simply the danger of killer plants.

Combine

this with a pathetic script and generally bad acting and audiences were left wishing the book had been left alone.

In the right hands a TV adaptation can not only be popular itself but also improve the popularity of a book. Yet care should always be taken - a conversion to the small screen should be attempted only with a good crew, a talented cast and a firm understanding of the original.

Telly Talk Eliott Rhodes Critic

Will a television become redundant in the future?

A lot of the reporters in Redbrick TV use online facilities to review their stories.

Usually it comes from the free services like the BBC iPlayer or ITV Player, which give us the opportunity to have reruns on request (unlike Dave, who give us reruns by design).

There are others who do not have a television at all and solely rely on internet services for their viewing. These people receive letters from TV Licensing, which are designed to intimidate and scare people into buying licenses. But there are websites that provide you with any TV show you want within three clicks of a mouse.

The new role that the internet is playing is worrying; a lot of people are using filesharing websites and hosting websites to watch TV (usually illegally) whenever they want. Recently a British student, Richard O'Dwyer, owner of TV Shack, a hosting website that would directly link you to whatever you wanted to watch on a different website, was arrested and will be extradited to the USA, pending appeal, for conspiracy to commit copyright infringement and criminal infringement of copyright.

Other such filesharing websites are also falling under scrutiny, the most publicised is Megaupload, which was taken down a few weeks ago.

There are plenty of arguments over the ethics of these practices but the epidemic of internet television continues. TV online is quickly becoming an acceptable alternative to watching TV with friends, or family. So much so that Downton Abbey was boosted to number one spot in viewers on Christmas Day, but only after the internet watches were taken into account.

There was talk of the government introducing a payment system for BBC iPlayer back in 2009, and recently they tried to revise this idea comparable to an online TV license in the future. It would be a pay per view system like America for sports events, or cable TV. People won't be happy with this, but in a system where license holders pay for iPlayer, is it really fair if non-license holders use it too? You can watch Sky Sports online with your Sky details, so this student imagines it won't be far from reality.

3rd February 2012 redbrickpaper.co.uk

Redbrick

Reviews: This week's hottest shows Noel Fielding's Luxury Comedy Hannah Lloyd-Davies Critic

Those of us who only know Noel Fielding as the 'goth-dandy' team captain on Never Mind the Buzzcocks or goth co-worker from The IT Crowd (no type-casting there) were probably in for quite a shock when they tuned into his new primetime show on E4.

Indeed, his new solo comedy venture is a chaotic mish-mash of

Real Hustle Celebrity Eleanor Pitt Critic

The Real Hustle used to boast believable cons, scams and an original format; eleven series later, the show's novelty has well and truly worn off.

Friday's episode, the first in the new series which has been revamped with guest appearances from a range of Z-listers (this

Sun, Sex and Suspicious Parents Charlotte Goodwin Critic

The show, back for its second series, each week follows two different groups of friends around the party resorts of Europe.

Going on holiday is, as they say in the show 'a rite of passage', exams are over and now these teens get the first taste of freedom away from home, and most importantly away from their parents.

Strictly Soulmates Russell Webb Critic

BBC Three has a new documentary series: following people who want to find their perfect partner alongside their devotion to their religion. This week the focus is on Christians with the members of other faiths planned for later in the series.

At the beginning of the programme we are introduced to Katy, who is a 27 year old Christian looking to settle down into marriage af-

This week in TV News

Former TOWIE star Amy Childs has been actively chatting up the producers of Dancing on Ice in the hopes of becoming a contestant next year.

Amy, whose own reality spin-off was axed by Channel 5 was told the 2013 line up hadn't yet been discussed.

Television 13

psychedelic colours and surreal ideas, that makes the viewer feel as though they have inadvertently taken LSD. His insane imaginings run wild in a series of sketches involving eccentric characters, in even crazier costumes and scenarios.

The comedy stylings offered by the show are very much in the same vain offered by Fielding in The Mighty Boosh (with a muchloved character making an appearance!) and this will surely appease some of the show's loyal fans. In particular, the character of Inspector Boombox, a bright yellow New York cop was especially funny, as

his unsightly knife wounds, or socalled 'gashes', became hilariously unsettling characters in their own right.

My one complaint is that the episode veered off into utter craziness at times, leaving my housemates and I watching in a confused, stunned silence. Fielding's comedy stretches from surreal to utterly baffling on occasion.

Hopefully, future episodes will feature comedy that is slightly more accessible to a wider audience, whilst still pleasing fans of Fielding's more unconventional style.

week ex-Boyzone member Shane Lynch), was sadly just thirty minutes of dull, tired television.

The mark, who had just exchanged nearly five hundred pounds into euros, was dragged off the street by the hustlers posing as investigators into fraudulent cash.

He let these strangers 'check' his cash in the back of a van.

After being let go, the mark was accosted by another team posing as investigators of the van duo. By some means, though it's difficult to see how, the new team convinced the mark to go back to the van with more money and ask them to check it again so that the

'real' investigators could catch the criminals red-handed (following still?).

What the mark didn't realise was that the envelope of real cash had been switched for paper receipts. When he went back to the van and asked them to check it, they drove off. A little while later the unsuspecting mark opened the envelope and realised to his dismay he'd been conned.

What was worrying about this scam was not the act itself, but the fact that the mark actually fell for it. Exhausted of all creativity unless you really can't find anything else to watch, don't bother.

However, the teenagers are unwittingly unaware that their every move is being watched by their parents, from the actual resorts!

This week Sophie, an eighteen year old from Sussex, and Ronnie, a nineteen year old from Kent, are experiencing holidaying on the Greek Island of Kos. Sophie is enjoying her independence away from her strict Jehovah's Witness parents, and Ronnie is having time away from his protective mum. 'What they don't know can't hurt them' are the ominous words from Sophie as they head out to the clubs of Kos, completely unaware their parents are closer than they think.

After every night, the parents watch what their teenagers have been up to. Sophie's religious parents are shocked to watch their daughter not only binge drinking but smoking too. Her parents' shock is opposed to Ronnie's dad who actually thinks his behaviour is rather funny. However this doesn't prevent him making a threat to 'verbally crucify' his son!

Shockingly, the experience does bring the teenagers closer together with their parents. The reflective ending sees Ronnie forming a relationship with his dad, and Sophie no longer needing to hide her true self.

ter previously being engaged. Katy says that the previous relationship left her heartbroken and obviously wary of stepping into a new relationship. In order to find the love of her life she attends multiple events including Christian speed dating. The show follows her attempts to meet a man through this world of religious dating in a way only a BBC Three program could.

As well as Katy, the show follows Richard, a Christian TV show presenter hoping to also find a person with whom he can enter the monogamy of marriage. He is set up on a date with fellow Strictly Soulmate Lorraine, but it is to no avail.

Fortunately for Richard he arranges another date for himself with a different lucky lady. Yet more proof that shows such as Strictly Soulmates, in which the television producers attempt to interfere in the public's love-lives are more often than not utter failures.

The series does give a valuable insight into the different problems and pitfalls that young people with a strong belief in religion face when trying to meet someone whom shares those beliefs. However the concept seems stretched and a little dull over thirty minutes.

Fortunately this is only a fourpart series. Hallelujah.

Daytime TV staple The Big Breakfast could be returning before the start of the Olympics.

Amanda Byram is tipped to take over as host after Denise Van Outen declined to return.

It has been revealed that the writers of Scrubs are currently working on a US adaptation of Only Fools and Horses to air sometime in 2013.

14 redbrickpaper.co.uk

Redbrick

3rd February 2012

Arts

'Dickens is one of those authors who are well worth stealing.'

– George Orwell

Our Mutual Friend

With the bicentenary of the birth of the inimitable Charles Dickens, considered the greatest novelist of the Victorian period, Redbrick Arts takes a look at his ties with the city, his social legacy, and his characters. Illustrations by Elin Stone.

Alexander Blanchard Arts Editor

Think of Dickens and you evoke images of hunched misers, the dark alleys of London doused within a Victorian sepia, foggy church yards, fantastical villains, haggard old women, portly creditors, bedraggled orphans, and the squalor and sweat of the work house (Dickens was himself forced to work in a blacking house to help repay his father's debts – 'It was a crazy, tumble-down old house, abutting of course on the river, and literally overrun with rats').

An association one is little likely to make, though, is of Dickens and Birmingham.

On the 27th of December, 1853 – a freezing cold, wintry night, with snow blanketing the ground – nearly 2,000 people braved the

bitter temperatures and queued up in the centre of Birmingham to listen to the great author give his first public reading of A Christmas Carol. The papers praised 'the high mimetic powers possessed by Mr. Dickens [which] enabled him to personate with remarkable force the various characters of the story, and with admirable skill to pass rapidly from the hard, unbelieving Scrooge, to trusting and thankful Bob Cratchit, and from the genial fulness of Scrooge's nephew, to the hideous mirth of the party assembled in Old Joe the Ragshop – keeper's parlour.'

Dickens subsequently gave a total of three three-hour readings at Town Hall throughout the Christmas of 1853, one of which was exclusively for the working classes – 'Mr Dickens having particularly desired that one of the Readings should be given to an audience composed of Working Classes... the Friday Evening shall be devoted to

The Lasting Social Legacy of Dickens Annabelle Collins Critic

Charles Dickens was undoubtedly a great observer of human nature.

The vivid characters and dark, complex plots he created have demonstrated an understanding of the abuses within society and resulted in an enduring popularity of his publications.

Although many would associate eccentric names and ornate language with the work of Dickens, the recurring themes of oppression and inequality cannot be ignored.

By using his own experiences as a child, Dickens gave prosperous Victorian society an insight into a world which would have otherwise been left in the shadows.

Writing at a time when Britain was at the height of its political and economic power, Charles Dickens did not solely concern himself with the comfortable lives of the wealthy but instead depicted the lives of the forgotten poor. Dickens used his journalism to highlight these inequalities, but arguably his works of fiction raised public awareness further; his success as an author allowed him to campaign for the betterment of the working classes in Victorian England. Within his novels in particular, Dickens explored themes that continue to

resonate in society today; most notably those concerned with child welfare and homelessness.

His status as a social reformer was further established following his support of the 'Ragged Schools', which were organisations intended to educate destitute children. In addition to this, there are numerous references to the Foundling Hospital in Dickens' novels; most notably in Oliver Twist and Little Dorrit. Although the Foundling Hospital no longer exists, a Foundling Museum now occupies the original site, in which visitors can discover how Dickens inspired people to get involved with its charitable work.

Charles Dickens wielded a certain degree of influence as an author, which can be seen in his efforts to shut down the infamous Yorkshire boarding schools. Following the publication of Nicholas Nickleby many of these cruel institutes were closed; Dickens' depiction of brutal headmaster Wackford Squeers particularly disturbed the public. Despite complaints from existing headmaster William Shaw on which this character was based, Dickens' success prevented a backlash.

It is clear that Dickens influenced social reforms within Victorian society; however the

awareness he raised resulted in the development of institutions which still exist today. Great Ormond Street Hospital can be seen as part of Dickens' legacy, as he published a powerful article in his magazine Household Words and raised money through readings of his work. Arguably, the financial help he gave to Great Ormond Street saved it from bankruptcy and allowed it to double in size. Far from the small institution offering only ten beds, it is now the country's leading centre for the treatment of sick children.

'The recurring themes of oppression and inequality cannot be ignored' Another aspect of Dickens' social legacy is his inspiration for the establishment of the 'Rowton Houses' in 1892 by politician and philanthropist Lord Rowton. Their aim was to provide accommodation for working-men and Irish immigrant workers as an alternative to the workhouse, which demanded manual labour in return for food and shelter.

These establishments contained many new innovations in a higher standard of living. Arlington House in Camden Town is

the only existing hostel today, and provides much needed support for single, homeless people. The way Dickens highlighted the atrocities of the workhouses certainly made the public more aware of the plight of those less fortunate. Dickens was particularly conscious of how harrowing they could be as he lived on the same street as The Cleveland Street Workhouse, which until 2005 was part of the NHS. Later in life, Dickens engaged in correspondence with the workhouse's medical officer Joseph Rogers, in which he encouraged reformation of such institutions and condemned the conditions in which people were forced to live.

The bicentenary of Charles Dickens' birth provides the perfect opportunity to look past the Victorian caricature that has emerged over the years and consider how he left behind a legacy, which not only entertained, but also helped those in need. His novels were certainly a social commentary of the age, but despite the darker aspects of his work his inventive manipulation of language and fresh use of satire is ever present. This has resulted in timeless characters that we can laugh at and sympathise with, two hundred years after their creation.

that purpose,' The Birmingham Journal announced (predecessor to The Birmingham Mail).

True to his concern for social reform, and the plight of the needy, the events were to raise funds for the Birmingham and Midlands Institute on Margaret St. to which Dickens was connected for many years. The institute, with its red brick Victorian façade, can still be seen today and it houses a remarkable library of first editions and a bust of Dickens.

However, these readings were not merely a one-off visit. In 1844 Dickens had taken part in a meeting of the Polytechnic Institution of Birmingham, of which he was president, and spoke on the need for education to be comprehensive and non-sectarian. There are also a number of allusions to Birmingham and the Black Country to be found amongst his work.

In The Old Curiosity Shop, Dickens has the infallible and angelic Nell spend the night by a furnace in Birmingham, after having travelled on the Warwick and Birmingham Canal. And in The Pickwick Papers he describes the thriving industry of the city, 'The fires, whose lurid, sullen light had been visible for miles, blazed fiercely up in the great works and factories of the town.'

16 Arts

3rd February 2012 redbrickpaper.co.uk

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Previews

Miss Havisham: A liminal state of temporal arrest Annie Hodson Critic

Amongst the many Dickensian characters that haunt the popular imagination, there is one image more vivid than the rest; a sunken woman in a shrivelled bridal gown, sitting majestic and terrible at her decayed wedding feast.

Great Expectations' Miss Havisham lingers in the public consciousness, cultural shorthand for the jilted lover driven mad, a spurned bride in a crumbling mansion. But she is more than a stricken spinster, masterfully drawn by Dickens as a figure of tragic ambivalence; both victimiser and vic-

timised.

Madness flits on the edge of all Dickens novels; sometimes comical, sometimes harrowing, always poignant. Think Miss Flite in Bleak House twittering along with her caged birds, or Mr Dick in David Copperfield, who makes his fevered writings into a kite and finds sanity only while it floats in the air.

But their madness is gentle; unlike Miss Havisham's corrosive, destructive insanity. She waits in a house of stopped clocks, nursing her pain like an open wound, sworn to destroy love wherever she finds it. When Pip first meets her, she lays her hands on her chest and

asks him 'What do I touch?'

'Heart,' he replies and she cries out 'Broken!' It is the perfect crystallisation of a woman revelling in what Pip later calls 'the vanity of sorrow'; a woman who chooses to let madness define her.

She exists in a liminal state of temporal arrest; time has stopped at the hour of her lover's desertion. Her power as a character lies in the power of this image; every

day is her wedding, therefore every day her heart is broken anew. Great Expectations is one of Dickens' greatest novels, and Miss Havisham is inextricably bound up in its legacy. We remember her as the madness that will not let go; vicious but wretched in her burning bridal dress.

The Orphaned Hero Emily Priestnall Critic

Despite not being the only Victorian author to write of the trials and tribulations of an orphaned child, with Brontë and Montgomery alike, it cannot be denied that our birthday boy was one of the most influential of his era.

Charles Dickens' hugely successful novel Great Expectations follows Pip's journey from a boy to a man and, yes, you've guessed it, he was an orphan. Pip not only suffers the death of his parents but is thrown into the depths of neglect at a young age, then given unguided wealth in his teens whilst a series of curious relationships and scrapes with the law are interwoven in between the plot line.

The lack of parental support throughout his adventures is no coincidence; this literary device has become a winner amongst many of the greatest authors over the last two hundred years, par-

ticularly in children's literature.

And why? Well, because it allows our favourite heroes and heroines to learn from their own mistakes, to provide moral guidance for the younger readers and to overcome hurdles mere mortals wouldn't even contemplate attempting.

We Brits love a character that we can mollycoddle, so welcome to the orphan hall of fame! Charlotte Brontë's heroine Jane Eyre stands alongside Pip in the 19th century but this orphan narrative has not been abandoned since. There is absolutely no way that JK Rowling, for example, would still be wiping her behind with twenty-pound notes if James and Lily Potter had not died the day before page one of The Philosopher's Stone began.

So happy birthday, Charles, and thank you for the inspiration for some of Britain's best-loved characters – all the way from Rudyard Kipling's Mowgli to Lemony Snicket's Baudelaire chil-

Peter Shread at the RBSA Ami Coxill-Moore Critic

Tucked away in the neighbouring street of The Jam House and looming eye of the BT Tower is the understated Royal Birmingham Society of Art gallery, the current home to a collection of art work by local artist and RBSA member, Peter Shread.

Shread's work features prints of true-to-life landscapes, alongside the incorporation of harsh edges and blocks of colour. Both Rain, Black Mountains and Sunshine and Showers, Black Mountains use diagonal beams of darker

dren and their Series of Unfortunate Events – without a doubt their fictional existence would be lost witho u t you.

Hedda Gabler The Crescent 3&4th February £2.50

Read more reviews online at redbrickpaper.co.uk

shades, changing colour as they zig-zag through the atmosphere to show the transcendence of cruel weather conditions and their effects on the backdrop.

Shread cleverly juxtaposes dark, earthy colours alongside brighter, less natural elements, which strengthen his idea of the abstraction from, and manipulation of, nature.

Shread's work evokes an (albeit more developed) child-like air, through both his use of soft, pastel shades, plus the range of techniques used in order to achieve the overall distinctive form of his works. Such methods include

woodcut printing, whereby Shread carves an image into wood in order to then reproduce a print of the raised segments onto the surface of the art work. Another piece titled Little Stretton presents an image alternative to the clear-cut finish as a result of woodcutting, instead producing a texture which is visually similar to felt.

Shread successfully manages to portray the significance of landscape art with a bold and quirky core. The unique pieces all brighten up the café walls at the RBSA, and could brighten up your walls too, as all featured pieces are up for sale… spare £900, anyone?

Critic

The CBSO's 2011-12 season has been a triumph so far, and last Wednesday's concert was no exception.

The programme began with Tchaikovsky's lesser known Symphony No.1. Without doubt 'romantic', Tchaikovsky's work can still surprise and challenge with its noisy dissonances, and parts of his fourth movement appear to be a bold move towards the modern, with strings clashing against sustained horns.

Opening with the Allegro Tranquillo, the orchestra transported us on the 'Winter Journey' claimed by the movement's nick-

name, evoking great peacefulness but underpinned by that pulsating urgency that drives so much of the composer's work.

We were in heaven with the tenderness of the Adagio, in which the flute and oboe floated beautifully above the orchestra and the cellos sung passionately, while the playful Scherzo recalled dances from The Nutcracker, expertly conducted on this occasion

by Andris Nelsons, director of the CBSO. The storminess of the programme increased at the hands of Hélène Grimaud, who performed Brahms' first piano concerto with extraordinary finesse. Grimaud is a prestigious pianist; she has won a wealth of awards and was soloist

Watch This Presents: 48 Hour The Tempest Deb Hall

February 5th

Winter Dreams at Symphony Hall Rachel Johnston

Pugin, Durer and The Gothic The Barber 3rd February – 24th June Free

at the Last Night of the BBC Proms 2008.

At the time of the concerto's composition, Brahms was suffering with the emotional burden of his close friend Schumann's attempted suicide and confinement to a mental asylum, and the resulting work begins with the suitably dramatic Maestoso. We are offered some respite with the Adagio, which was played with great sensitivity by Grimaud, eyes closed and lost in its magic, as we all were.

All too soon we were roused by the energy of the famous Rondo's main theme, which is a spectacular test of strength, and Grimaud took fierce command of the keyboard to bring the concerto to an exciting climax.

Patrick Monahan mac 8th February £10

CBSO Images of 1912 Symphony Hall 9th February £10

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3rd February 2012

Technology

Check out the Redbrick website for a review of Crush 3D

2012 in gaming: a preview of the year to come

Sam Atkins Technology Editor

Following a brilliant Christmas season for the games industry, which saw Skyrim emerge as most players' top pick, it's time to stop looking back on the year past and look ahead to 2012.

A new console is probably the best way to get excited for the rest of the year and, with the Playstation Vita due this month, the excitement starts early in 2012. Following a disappointing launch for the Nintendo 3DS, all eyes are on Sony and their new handheld to prove that a standalone console can work in the current phone driven market. With two analogue sticks, front and rear touch control, 3G and graphics that are said to equal current gen consoles, the Vita has all of the ingredients it needs to be the best handheld ever made. The launch line up is incredibly strong too, with a new Uncharted, Wipeout and Everybody's Golf arriving alongside versions of Fifa, F1 and Ninja Gaiden when the system launches on 22nd February. Here's hoping the Vita pulls off the sort of

market domination that the PSP couldn't.

Other than the Vita, game releases for the year don't really kick off until March. The finale to Bioware's epic RPG trilogy, Mass Effect 3, is sure to be one of the first must-have games of the year.

Taking the series to earth, along with just about everywhere else in the universe we're guessing, it has the potential to be a brilliant game. March also sees the release of SSX, the first entry in the hugely successful snowboarding series to appear on both the PS3 and Xbox 360. After playing an early build at GamesFest last year, we can confirm there's a lot to be excited about. Throw in Street Fighter X Tekken, which is just Street Fighter with Tekken characters, and already March is looking extremely exciting.

The rest of 2012 is very much a mystery at this point. We know the games that will be appearing in the later months, but exactly when they will arrive is yet to be confirmed. If all the announced games do make it this year it could be one of the best years the industry has

17

ever seen. Obvious choices include Grand Theft Auto V, though with details scarce for now it will be surprising if it isn't released in 2013 instead. Halo 4 looks set to dominate the Christmas season too, in competition with the now certain November release of a new Call of Duty. Capcom's Resident Evil 6 may have only just been confirmed, but judging by the debut trailer, the game looks near enough complete, making it another reason to look

If Bioshock Infinite is even half as good as the original, it will surely be one of 2012's best games

forward to the end of the year.

But what games are most likely to be following in Skyrim's footsteps and topping end of year lists?

The latest reinvention of Tomb Raider is looking more and more likely to be the best game in the series, while the new game from Team Ico, The Last Guardian, is sure to drive critics crazy, if it arrives this year. That said, the smart money would be on Bioshock Infinite, a standalone addition of the universe first seen in 2007 hit Bioshock. If Infinite is even half as good as the original, and following trailers and gameplay footage it's certainly looking that way, it will surely be one of 2012's best games.

For PC gamers, a recent announcement at CES is sure to cause a stir in the PC community.

Project Fiona is a Windows 8 powered gaming tablet with integrated analogue controls built onto the screen as handles. The device was running high end PC games, which is promising for a prototype this early in dvelopment.

The Playstation Vita and Project Fiona aren't the only consoles on the horizon though, with the next generation of home consoles set to debut in 2012. Nintendo have confirmed that the Wii U will be released in time for the Christmas season worldwide, which will mean they are first out of the gate this generation. With HD graphics and an extension of the Wii Remote controls to include an iPadlike touchscreen device. Could this early release push Microsoft and Sony to rush an announcement of their respective new consoles at E3 this year?

With this look ahead at 2012's AAA games, what is clear is that the next 12 months are going to be exciting for gamers. What is more, all this goes without mentioning unconfirmed titles such as Assassin's Creed 3 and Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance. It's an exciting time to play games, and there's sure to be plenty of surprises as 2012 unfolds.

Introducing: Redbrick Science

Ellie Fewings introduces the new science column

This year the Technology team are going to boldly go where no section has gone before, and journey into the world of science. But not science for the genius who knows everything, and we aren't just going to recite the periodic table to you.

In fact, the less you know about a subject, the more there is to find.

Science jokes are not mandatory, but always well appreciated. And although you may think we are living in an age of knowledge, there is an endless number of things we don't know.

Think about the University.

New discoveries and interesting research into the unknown are commonplace behind these red bricks.

We are just one university of 20 in The Russell Group that undertake the highest quality of research, not to mention countless other science research units in the UK. Now amplify this across the world to get just a snapshot of scientific scope available for us to tackle.

We want to give you pride in the work done here at your University.

It doesn't matter whether your interests lie in art, music or history; every topic can be dissected to reveal a rich, gooey, scientific centre.

The point is there are no limits to what science can do, only limits to what we can imagine.

Our part in all of this is to give this science to you without sounding pretentious. So much of science when we were young was focused on showing us how little we know instead of how much we could understand. We, at Redbrick Technology, promise not to condescend. We want readers to be as passionate about the subject as we are. But most importantly we really want to spread enthusiasm with our readers so watch this space.

And if you want to get involved come along to the Technology meeting at 5pm every Wednesday in Student Development.

Is the iPad 3 worth the wait?

Andrew Spencer scours the rumour mill for the top predictions surrounding the upcoming release of Apple's iPad 3 #3 Multiple Versions

#5 Siri

One of the most interesting rumours is that there will be two versions of the iPad 3. While rumours vary about what the differences will be, the most prominent rumour is that Apple will release a stripped down iPad 2s and the iPad 3. Such a move may be in response to the competition from Amazon's Kindle Fire and other less expensive tablets.

Having found its way onto the iPhone 4S, the intelligent voice recognition software that lets the user speak commands, or ask questions to their device, might be about to make its way onto the iPad. A patent for an 'Intelligent Automated Assistant' published recently hints that Apple has big plans for Siri which stretch beyond the IPhone 4S. Furthermore, the iOS 5.1, Apple's latest version of its mobile operating system, has features in it that support the Siri rumour. Just as the original iPad revolutionised computer use by removing the need for a laptops or desktops, the introduction of Siri on the iPad 3 could remove the need for touchscreen interaction.

#4 Retina Display With the expected release of the iPad 3 drawing ever nearer, the internet has exploded with rumours.

After the success of the iPad 2, there is great excitement to see what improvements will be made.

Although the ever secretive Apple has not confirmed any information yet, hopefully within the next coming weeks, all will be revealed.

These are our top five iPad 3 predictions:

#1 Release Date

#2 4G

Rumours suggest that the iPad 3 will have a March 2012 release, with an expected unveiling in early February. This information has allegedly been leaked from two separate sources and combined with the fact that the iPad 2 had a March release date last year, these are probably reasonable estimates.

Most mobile gadgets these days utilise 3G. The high specifications expected of the iPad 3 would create the perfect opportunity for Apple to introduce 4G compatibility. 4G will offer much faster mobile internet and gaming, but as of yet the current UK infrastructure does not support the new technology.

There have been consistent rumours that Apple have been struggling to implement the Retina Display in their new device. Following the success of the Retina Display on the iPhone 4, we can expect Apple to update their new tablet with the latest screen technology.

Apple have updated their iBook store with specifications suited to a high resolution device, pointing to a Retina Display.

Keep informed by visiting our brand new website: www.redbrickpaper.co.uk/tech And follow us on twitter: @RedbrickTech

18 redbrickpaper.co.uk

Redbrick

3rd February 2012

Film

'You're pretentious, this club sucks, I have beef. Let's do it.'

Scott Pilgrim vs. The World (2010)

The Beginner's Guide to... Wes Anderson

Film News

Kayte Ferris takes a dive into the unusual with a close-up look at the works of Wesley Wales

The trailer for Wes Anderson's latest film, Moonrise Kingdom, has recently been released and has been well-received by Anderson fans. Here is a basic guide to the fundamentals of Wes Anderson films.

Style and Features Anderson frequently collaborates with the same actors, often the Wilson brothers, Owen and Luke, as well as Jason Schwartzman, Bill Murray and Anjelica Houston. These actors are staples of Anderson films and are as much a part of his signature look as the film crafting.

Stylistically, Anderson's films

are incredibly distinctive. The colour palette, structure, plots and characters are all often created in the same mould. Anderson's films have a retro 1960s-70s feel in their colouration, although the settings themselves are often timeless. The characters tend to follow generally similar types: a precocious and/or genius child, an older male companion, a kooky mother. Although the plots differ, they often get wildly out of control and spiral into hilarious unreality, whilst retaining naturalism in their quirkiness.

And everything is held together by knife-sharp one-liners, witty conversations and dead-pan humour.

Filmography Although commercially unsuccessful, Bottle Rocket (1996) drew much critical attention, and is one of Martin Scorsese's top 10 films of the 1990s. Bottle Rocket is a heist movie which displays the beginnings of many of Anderson's tropes, featuring flawed characters and quirky plot twists.

Bringing Anderson widespread attention, Rushmore (1998) is the story of eccentric teenager Max Fischer, who is president of all the

school social societies, and writes elaborate musicals. Rushmore is a great film by which to be introduced to Anderson, as it's funny, a bit ridiculous and very good fun.

Nominated for a best screenplay Oscar, The Royal Tenenbaums (2001) is the story of three sibling child prodigies and how they fare in later life when the family is thrown into turmoil. If you're going to watch one Anderson film, make it this one: funny, clever and very entertaining.

Oceanographer (The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou, 2004) sets out to kill the 'Jaguar shark' that killed his partner, with many eccentric characters aboard his boat. Characteristically of Anderson, many romantic and familial

a Paris hotel room.

The Darjeeling Limited (2007) sees three estranged brothers travel across India to reunite with their mother, but getting into arguments and sticky situations along the way. This film marks a light maturation of Anderson's work, and is more mainstream than his earlier works.

Fantastic Mr. Fox (2009) is an adaptation of Roald Dahl's story, this is Anderson's first animation and adaptation. A well-received film managing to maintain Anderson's famous style.

complications and catastrophes occur on their voyage.

Available on YouTube, Hotel Chevalier (2007) features Natalie Portman and Jason Schwartzman as ex-lovers reuniting in

Beth Ditzel Critic

Oscar Non-Shock It's that time of year again, and please try to feign shock as to whom the Academy has decided to honour.

After clearing up every awards ceremony so far, The Artist proves once more that silence is golden with ten nominations, while War Horse and Moneyball are up for six. George Clooney is favourite for Best Actor for The Descendants and The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo herself, Rooney Mara, is up for Best Actress.

The surprise contender is Martin Scorsese's Hugo, sneaking in with eleven nominations.

Five of the Best: Film Music Accompaniments

Matthew Clemens pricks up his ears and tries not to toot his own horn with this week's top 5

#2

1

Apocalypse Now

#

Suffice it to say, Francis Ford Coppola's Apocalypse Now is a difficult watch. That being said, one five-minute sequence more than makes up for the struggle, and that's the infamous helicopter scene featuring Richard Wagner's 'Ride of the Valkyries'. As the copters charge to the scene, we see thick black smoke rising from the distance, witness chaos in the form of explosions and manic gunfire, and quake in horror as civilians attempt to flee from the mayhem. It's brutal but mmmm God help me, I do love the sound of booming trumpets in the morning.

Shawshank

The Shawshank Redemption has a wealth of magnificent musical accompaniment. One scene stands out though: when Andy locks himself in the warden's office and plays Sual'aria, Che soave zeffiretto.

As the music soars through the prison walls, its inhabitants stand motionless, soaking in the glory of an operatic master class. Truly, it's just one of the most beautiful moments in film.

#4

Watchmen

The film adaptation of Alan Moore's fantastic twelve-issue comic may not have been everything that fans hoped it would be, but it still provided one of the most unforgettable moments in cinema history thanks to Paul Simon's stunning and somewhat ethereal, Sound of Silence. Quite literally, it was the perfect accompaniment to the comedian's melancholic funeral scene.

Gods and Kings Rumour has it that Steven Spielberg, who recently brought us War Horse and Tintin, plans to bring Moses to the big screen once more in Gods and Kings, a biopic of the biblical figure. Apparently, this won't be anything like Charlton Heston's incarnation of the man in The Ten Commandments, but a less glossy tale spanning his entire life. Insiders say that the film will get the Saving Private Ryan treatment; does this mean that Moses will storm Omaha beach instead of parting the Red Sea?

The Wolf Pack Returns Donnie Darko

Darjeeling Limited

ecstasy and as a lifelong Tears for Fears fan, there was nothing more pleasing than discovering just how much a scene can be enriched by music. The tune proved to be the perfect accessory to the sweeping camera as it drifted through Donnie's highschool in super slow-mo, and it makes for one of the coolest moments of cinematography ever!

fort, even if it never quite feels like a well-rounded experience. What can't be denied though is the power of its opening, helped along nicely by This Time Tomorrow by The Kinks, a song that is just so stunning and complementary to Adrian Brody's slow-mo sprint, it almost makes up for the film's inconsistency.

Over Heels' had alLimited is a #5 Darjeeling #3 'Head ways felt like symphonic curious and inspired ef-

The phrase 'flogging a dead horse' springs to mind on hearing the news that Warner Bros. are pushing to begin work on The Hangover 3 this summer. Director of the previous instalments, Todd Phillips, is not yet confirmed and the 'wolf pack' are all still in talks. The plot details have not yet been released, but there are no prizes for guessing what the story will entail. Let's just hope there are a few new jokes in this time around.

Film 19

3rd February 2012 redbrickpaper.co.uk

Redbrick

Reviews Young Adult

Natasha Lavender Critic

Director: Jason Reitman Cast: Charlize Theron, Patrick Wilson, Patton Oswalt Cert: 15 This darkly humorous drama answers the question of whatever happened to that popular girl after high school. Mavis Gary (Charlize Theron) left her small hometown Mercury for the excitement of Minneapolis, and is now the ghost writer of a series of young adult

UNMISSABLE

EXCELLENT

GOOD

POOR

TRAGIC

Like Crazy

books. When Mavis receives a photo of her now happily married exboyfriend's new baby, she returns to Mercury to rescue him from a life of dull domesticity. Caught up in memories of their high school romance, Mavis is finally forced to realise that everyone has grown up, leaving her days of popularity behind her and an uncertain future ahead.

Despite the potentially misleading poster, this is no romantic comedy. Although Young Adult screenwriter Diablo Cody is best

known for witty comedy Juno, the humour here is more bitter sweet.

The central characters are carefully and accurately painted, neither too good to be true, nor pantomime villains. Tasked with carrying the focus of much of the film, Charlize Theron does a brilliant job of making the generally sullen Mavis into more than just a bitch. While Mavis is both immature and self-centred, Theron and Cody also show her vulnerability and depression in a way which makes her compelling if not actually likeable.

Despite the focus on Mavis, the film offers two perspectives on her actions. While Mavis clings on to her adolescent fantasy, the reasonable attitudes of the supporting characters become the foil which shows her increasingly delusional ideas. Refreshingly, the film manages to avoid an entirely predictable ending, aiming for a realistic rather than contrived conclusion.

Diablo Cody has been calledout on his constant focus on adolescents and the troubles of lost youth. However, he is clearly a writer who knows his subject well.

From the poignant and charming Juno to this latest offering, he has not put a foot wrong. This is also another smart move for Theron who uses her obvious beauty detrimentally, highlighting the ridiculous quality of women her age who refuse to grow up.

With its well-drawn characters and bitter humour, Young Adult is a dark, funny, and poignant account of a woman afraid to move on from her past. !

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Patricia Webersberger Critic

Director: Drake Doremus Cast: Felicity Jones, Anton Yelchin Cert: 12A Is it just another love story? It could be mine or yours, it's our social background, our age, our time. Is it our story? Anna's (Felicity Jones) and Jacob's (Anton Yelchin) love story feels so real that you are stuck in a bittersweet melancholy long after watching the movie.

The British student Anna and her American classmate Jacob meet and fall in love with each other in Los Angeles. Crazily fond of each other, Anna decides to overstay her student visa. After attending a family obligation in London, Anna is refused admission to re-enter America; a long journey of distance and closeness starts. Joy, desperation, anger... and yet a solution in the end?!

Moments constitute impor-

tance, items transport meaning, silence and music add to what words miss to tell – director Duke Doremus opens up the complexity and obstacles of loving someone.

He stays with a little amount of people, places and features that are important. Even when they meet Anna's friends in a pub, or when Jacob talks with his colleague, these nameless non-characters work as means to show the two characters' world(s). Nothing distracts from them and yet they get distracted by work and other partnerships (Jennifer Lawrence as Sam and Charlie Bewley as Simon). With no special effects or special activities, just the narrator's sensitive perspective on how Anna and Jacob make it all meaningful.

It is just another love story, one might say. However, it's the bracelet Jacob gives to Anna, the chair Jacob makes for Anna and the books that Anna writes for Jacob that makes their love story unique. What remains true in the end is life will never be the same. !

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Justified Existence: Rebooting Film Franchises

Flogging a dead horse or life-saving, reconstructive surgery. Lucius Palmer & Isidore Sanders put the critic's boot in

Give Them The Boot Every generation of artists is inspired by those who have come before, so it is no surprise that occasionally, a writer or director will be inspired to re-create one of their beloved favourites, with a few tweaks to make it their own. What distinguishes film from literature is the ability to re-imagine a story without being guilty of plagiarism.

After all, when I sit down and write myself into a Harry Potter story, that's just fanfiction. Completely different to a rebooted film. Or is it?

This is an era of reboots and sequels; Hollywood is a nostalgic beast and wants to relive its past successess (or undo its past mistakes). Some have been successful, both financially and artistically. Christopher Nolan's Dark Knight trilogy is a vivid example,

as is Marvel's The Incredible Hulk, made to cleanse the palate after the unsavoury Hulk.

The problem with any retelling is when so much of the original has been changed that it's no longer recognisable. Take the new James Bond series. As a pre-Craig Bond fan myself, I was looking forward

to the modernisation of Bond.

What I found instead was a competent action series with little in common with the rest of the franchise but some names.

Another disappointment was J.J. Abrams' Star Trek, which was an aesthetically beautiful piece with plenty of name and catchphrase-dropping but little of the charming substance that Star Trek fans have come to expect (Abrams had never seen Trek before taking the job!).

In spite of a few successes, I would say that reboots of successful films are best avoided. If the concept behind the new film is good, then it can be applied to original characters and settings. It simply isn't worth the risk to the integrity of the original, or the reputation of the re-booter, to try to redo what has already been proven a success.

Refreshing and Bold Reboots, reimaginings; call them what you want, the reinvention of tired franchises has become central to the film industry. They breathe life into beloved characters, and bring attention to unexplored aspects of a movie's universe. Rather than clunky, superfluous remakes (give it up Platinum Dunes), a reboot should be a shot of an adrenaline to a forgotten fandom.

The recent Star Trek reboot was released without number or

subtitle, simply Star Trek. This was a bold move designed to draw together fans of every past film, as well as the uninitiated. The characters were recognisable and familiar, while the new, young cast reinvigorated what had become hackneyed, trite cliche farming.

Sure there were catchphrases, the same lingering shots of the Enterprise and a generous introduction for every beloved crew member; but nods to the fans could be easily ignored or overlooked by new Trekkies.

While the same loving, familiarity could not be found in the Bond reboot, Daniel Craig was a new Bond for a new age. It was darker and grimier. He didn't

smirk or quaff Martini, there was torture, murder and graphic first aid. The younger James was finding his 007 sea-legs, and an unseen side of England's action hero was revealed.

Reboots can raise or lower the tone of a film, but final proof lies in four simple words: Batman: The Dark Knight. Nothing has done more for the reputation of reboots than Christopher Nolan's masterpiece trilogy. After the mixed responses to the excellent Michael Keaton and the woeful George Clooney, The Dark Knight was bold, dark and exciting. With a different man in the suit and a scarier clown behind the makeup this is the reboot to end all reboots.

Of course, the world will keep making reboots; they are fairly easy to make and fans will always want them. With buzz of a new Ferris Bueller film on the horizon as well as the third installment of Nolan's Batman, one can only wait and see what the future holds for this industry staple.

20 redbrickpaper.co.uk

Life&Style

Redbrick

3rd February 2012

Are plus size models faker than size zero? April Shacklock investigates this issue online at: redbrickpaper.co.uk/category/lifestyle

Miss Undergraduate 2012: The Contest and the Controversy judged solely on the basis of their appearance. In our society, one in 20 young women suffer from eating disorders and one in seven women students are victims of serious sexual assault or violence. This shows the importance of opposing events such as 'Miss Undergraduate', which promote the objectification of women and are an example of sexist practices being seen as a normal part of our lives.

Catie Garner, Women's Association Guild Councillor

For 'Miss Undergraduate 2012'

UoB competitors (on right): Carly Davies, Amelia Partridge & Anjali Rampersad Photo by Touch Promotions.

Sarah Musgrove Editiorial Assistant

It was with great enthusiasm that I first took this article on – and in the name of honest journalism, I'll admit that this rapidly turned into mass nervousness when I realised the size and significance of the subject that I'd agreed to write about.

In 500 words. (Safe to say, all word limits went out of the window.)

'Miss Undergraduate 2012' was launched in association with Breast Cancer Research at The Chameleon bar on the 24th of January, targeting female students from the University of Birmingham, Aston University and Birmingham City University. With the last of four heats concluding on the 21st February, the stakes are high, as the crowned 'Miss Undergraduate' will walk away with a holiday for two to Ibiza.

However, the contest is being met with strong objections, as protests from the University of Birmingham's Women's Association are underway. The Guild of Students have been stated as supporting this boycott, 'condemning' the event and 'viewing it as an obstacle to equality and as an expression of social values which damages the health and happiness of students.'

Alexander Blair of Touch Promotions (who are organising the

competition) told the visiting BBC reporters that the event is about raising awareness and money for charity – 'I don't see the link with sexual objectification...It's a glamorous night, but there won't be a swimsuit event.'

The competing girls will be judged on their hair, make-up, the way they present themselves and their on-stage question-and-answer round, he added. The woman who raises the most money in each heat gets an automatic place in the final.

Paula Young (spokeswoman for Cancer Research UK) has reported that they will not be turning down money raised from the 'Miss Undergraduate' contest: 'There are certain events that we will not accept proceeds from, such as those which are illegal or pose a risk to the charity and its supporters…We do not believe that taking money from a beauty contest falls into any of these categories.'

Following such great dispute, I naturally decided to pass the exponential responsibility of debating the competition onto some of the most strong-minded and passionate people that I've had the fortune of interacting with in the name of Redbrick. Read on to hear the resulting arguments from representatives of the Women's Association and some of the competing 'Miss Undergraduates'…

Against Miss graduate 2012

Under-

'Miss', like 'Miss World', implies a beauty contest. It's based in a nightclub – where sexual harassment and objectification is commonly rife. It may be 'fun', but casual sexism is still sexism – just easier to dismiss. Raising charity funds doesn't make it less sexist.

Beauty contests engender patriarchal 'divide and rule'; some women are 'beautiful' (i.e. the competitors) and others 'ugly', giving us grounds to judge women's looks. It's hardly 'free choice' when patriarchal-consumerism produces narrow ideals to judge appearance, with harmful repercussions for most women.

It's said that anyone can apply, but must provide photos – so women who don't adhere to conventional beauty norms may feel less inclined to compete.

April Reilly, member of the Women's Association The Women's Association have nothing against the women deciding to take part in 'Miss Undergraduate' – we take issue with beauty pageants themselves. We believe beauty pageants can affect all women. Whilst those taking part may argue they feel empowered by the pageant, they legitimise the idea that women can be

I see no reason why the WA is targeting the 'Miss Undergraduate' contest. The contestants are educated women who have ultimate liberty to pursue their interests.

To say the contest is about female objectification is a misled preconception. We're assessed on our hair and makeup (by BCU professionals, who receive recognition), our question answers, and the money we raise. At no point are we judged on whether we are 'more beautiful' than one another. Females are often subjected to media pressures – it should be the magazines that Photoshop images that are accused of objectification. I regard the experience as exceptionally empowering; winning is completely irrelevant. By having a good time and raising money for a worthwhile cause, we are all winners.

Carly Davies, UOB 'Miss Undergrad 2012' competitor The competition was open to all women of all ages, shapes and sizes – the only prerequisite being 'undergraduate'. 20% of ticket sales from contestants are going to Breast Cancer UK, and the fundraising was supported by Paula Young (of Cancer Research UK) when talking to the BBC. The title 'Miss' was chosen to appear more upmarket, like the 'Miss World' competition, and did not exclude married students. Contrary to some protests, there was no swimwear round – we were asked to wear glamorous ball gowns, and judged on our question answers, hair, make-up and poise.

There was plenty of opportunity for all girls to get involved. Who can define beauty? Beauty is what you make of it.

Jess Sarfas, UOB 'Miss Undergrad 2012' competitor.

Are You Happy With Your Sex Life?

Elizabeth East Writer

Thanks to the ever popular I'm a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here ITV1 programme, I learnt something that both shocked me and got me thinking for the rest of that night.

Apparently only 22.8% of women are very happy with their sex lives.

Yes, just 22.8%.

On the one hand you may be thinking that's no surprise; us females tend to constantly strive for the absolute best, if not perfec-

tion, and it bothers us more when we don't reach it than our fellow male companions. However, for myself I couldn't help but wonder why more women aren't fully satisfied with the most intimate act we could make? And then I think I found a reason.

All of us know only too well the forever popping up conversation on s.e.x: 'how often do you do it? Do you dress up? Should I try this position?' We are so consumed with the panic of not doing it the 'normal' way and spend most of

the time comparing our sex life with friends to try and establish whether what we're doing is right.

It's as though we need to have reassurance from society in order to feel happy in ourselves about it. Yet half the time what you hear isn't really what it seems: 'My boyfriend and I do it every morning,' 'Erm, sure, same here.'

No one ever knows what goes on behind closed doors so trying to keep up with what others are doing is a waste of time and no doubt exhausting. Maybe in order to feel

happier with our sex life, we need to stop scrutinizing every detail of someone else's and focus purely on what is right for you and your partner, as no two people will have the same needs and desires.

Sex will always be one of those awkward things you can't help but feel intrigued about, whether you openly admit it or not, but stop panicking. There is no 'normal' to any part of sex and there are no rules except for two: have fun and do what's right for you, not what everybody 'appears' to be doing.

Fierce & Finished Fierce Lucy Whife Writer

ASOS Skype Sessions: Needing an outfit restyle? Clueless on what's hot and what's not? Book a one-on-one skype session with an ASOS style advisor to do the hard-work for you! It is essentially having a personal shopper in your living room.

Eddie Redmayne: We've spotted him in the Burberry Campaigns and had a taste of him in My Week with Marilyn, but Eddie is back on our screens with the much-anticipated Birdsong. Is it just me, or has Sunday night telly just got a lot better?

Valentine's Movies: With the release date of 14th February, Channing Tatum is going to be back on the big screen in a few weeks in The Vow. Girls, it's set to be a classic rom-com, so drag along your boyfriends this Valentines Day. Hatter-of-the-Year: Catherine Middleton has been announced as 'Hat Person of the Year' for her determination in wearing a hat to almost any formal occasion. Perhaps not a title as prestigious as Duchess of Cambridge, but we're still impressed – congrats Kate!

New Trend Setter: Featured in L&S last week, Elizabeth Olsen is one to watch for wardrobe inspiration. Beautiful, confident and glamorous, she claims her twin sisters have no influence over her style.

Finished The Return of TOWIE: No Mark Wright? No Amy Childs? No Kirk?

This series will have nothing on the first. Admit it, we are all Made In Chelsea converts.

Jean Paul Gaultier's Catwalk: Apparently inspired by the late Amy Winehouse, Gaultier sent his models down the catwalk in beehives and heavy eyeliner, smoking cigarettes and wearing death veils... A bit offensive to the Winehouse family? We think so.

Spirithoods: Half-hood, halfscarf, an animal print wrap-around with ears on top. No, they are really not cool and at an extortionate £99, a luxury we can all live without.

New Year's Resolutions: As January finally comes to a close, it's time to come to terms with the failed NY's resolutions.. Gym membership hasn't kicked off, alcohol intake hasn't reduced, student loan still evaporating in the Bull Ring?

Never mind, we tried our best, January's over and now it's time to start enjoying 2012!

Harness body belts: A bit like a corset, this belt wraps around your whole torso and is to be worn over your dress. Slightly weird and slightly too fetish, I doubt this trend is going to kick off... But check out Topshop's accessory sections – Philip Green's team clearly loves it!

Life&Style 21

3rd February 2012 redbrickpaper.co.uk

Redbrick

The Media's 'Real Woman' Recycling: The Fashion PIP cause?

Revolution Emily Challis Writer

The recent PIP implant scare has been unavoidable, reported to affect 40,000 women in the UK alone whose assets are now filled with industrial grade mattress filler. I can imagine this fact would not be remotely comforting to find out, even without the risks it presents.

The constant media barrage of 'perfect' has come to public outrage in the last few years with magazines and music videos being blamed for rises in bulimia, and a crash of low self esteem in British ladies. A survey by girl-guiding revealing half of 16-21 year olds saying they would consider surgery, which I imagine surprises few.

With London Fashion Week fast approaching it's only a matter of time until the headlines are filled with critique of the catwalks and the girls that make their living walking it. My problem, however, lies not with the idea that curves are bad and everyone is 5ft 9” (which they're clearly not) but instead with the branding of this whole approach and in particular the line 'Real Women'.

I shall explain: Ann Summers' recently ran their Valentine's day competition, to find a 'Real Woman' to front its current new range of lingerie. The winner was decided by public vote and was won by the pretty 22 year old Lucy Moore, a student and the only plus size finalist in the competition, all is well. However, a copy of the new brochure reveals Lucy and the other two finalists adorning the front cover with the heading 'We

are Sexy, Gorgeous and Real'.

The girls look good in their red leopard print but the image is clearly air-brushed, which takes the authenticity out of the idea.

This is then added to by turning to the first page of the catalogue to see a typical Ann Summers model advertising the range. To claim that the woman on page 2 is not 'real' and that Lucy Moore from Westminster Uni is, I think is a bit of a contradiction.

What makes Lucy Moore 'real' ? Is it that she's plus size? Is it that we know her name or that she doesn't have the body we expect of a lingerie model? Is the lady with the neat waist and pert boobs on the following pages therefore classified as not 'real', because, I imagine, she is a real woman, who works hard at maintaining her appearance and has a healthy diet, goes to the gym a lot and leads, I guess, a normal life? When both the girls have been airbrushed into super smooth versions of themselves I can't see that it matters either way.

For girls who are naturally petite and don't have those 'real woman' curves I can see that this has rather the opposite effect and being told that it isn't natural to not have hips and curves. Any night out at FAB will tell you there are a lot of very slim, real, girls at this Uni. Whichever way you look at it the public desire for big boobs is a massive industry and only getting bigger with no apparent inclination to change anytime soon.

However, I'm not sure that having a toned, healthy body or a boob job stops you being a real woman.

Simran Bhogal Writer

The fashion market is one of the most lucrative industries in the world, producing endless amounts of clothing and accessories for millions of people. New seasons bring new trends, which we all look forward to as it's a chance to reinvent our style…and use this as a justified excuse for some retail therapy.

It's hard to resist the clever campaigns used by newspapers, magazines and fashion advertisements, tempting us to indulge in the newest pieces for the lowest prices. People buy around 2 million tonnes of clothing and throw away approximately 1.2 million tonnes a year in the UK. Re-using or recycling material is a useful way to decrease our carbon footprint and make the most out of our investments.

High fashion designers and big clothing chains are raising awareness of the benefits of recycling. Alexander McQueen, undeniably one of the greatest British designers, believed we should pay more respect to our environment, as it is the source of our fabrics and inspiration: 'Because fashion is so indicative of the social climate in which we live, what we wear will always be a symptom of our environment.'

Economically friendly clothing has even found its way into our local high street stores: H&M started using organic cotton in the 1990s and reintroduced it again in 2006.

Karolina Dobowicz from H&M states: 'Customers have shown they will buy organic if the clothes

look good and are priced right…'

Who says you can't be cheap and chic?

Getting involved with fashion's up and coming trend has never been easier. Adapting fabrics and accessories to suit your needs is the handiest way of saving money and getting your creative sparks flowing. Don't throw away your favourite pair of jeans because they look worn out; cut them up to make vintage shorts. Keep the frayed edges, as this look is a hit every summer.

We all have that piece of clothing that defines our style; it's the staple item in our wardrobe that we hope will last a lifetime, but sadly the time will come to bid it farewell. Why not head down to your local recycling bank and give your clothing a decent send off? It may even be reincarnated into something just as fabulous, and take a place in the heart of another.

Selling your clothing or accessories online is another way to make some spare cash and reduce wastage. Ebay has maintained its position as one of the most popular outlets for fashion, stocking designer labels such as DKNY and Prada, to high street brands like Motel and Zara. This is a great way to pass on items you no longer need to someone else, who may have alternative uses for the fabric.

You might even stumble across a must-have piece for a great price whilst browsing the site. There are lots of other websites where your clothing can be recycled for cash; something everyone on a budget wants to hear!

Recycling is bang on trend, so join in the fashion revolution…

Hair Trends: Your Neglected Style Secret Eve Hynes

Retro Hair: Think Monroe, Mad Men and We'll take Manhattan. Back combed beehives and tight curls define this trend. You may need an NVQ to master the trickier looks but if you've got the patience for it, this look will definitely turn heads

Writer

This week Caroline Flack got the chop. Well, her hair did. After five hours in the hairdressers chair Miss Flack emerged sporting a new shoulder length bob. Don't worry Ombre fans, she still embraced the dip dye trend, she just calmed it down a bit, swapping bleach blonde for softer, honey tones.

It appears that January is the month to mix it up a bit. New Year, new hair, new you. With this in mind we've explored the latest hair trends and found a few that are worth fussing over. Just in case you fancy a new look for your locks…

hairstyledesigns.tk Centre parting: No matter what your hair length, this is a trend you can easily embrace. Simply move your parting to the middle. Et voila, new you.

shorthaircutsv.com Super short: Emma Watson's hair was voted one of the most influential 'dos of 2011. So influential in fact that it was a key look on the 2012 spring/ summer catwalks. The super short trend has taken off in Hollywood with the likes of Vanessa Hudgens, Ginnifer Goodwin and Hayden Panetierre all following suit and embracing the trend.

fashion-mommy.com

Colour: Katy Perry's gone blue and Mary Kate Olsen and Kelly O have adopted pastel coloured tresses.

Anything is possible, and you don't even have to make this a permanent feature, with many semipermanent and wash in wash out options available on the internet.

Although you risk looking like your Gran after her blue rinse, you only live once…

Anna Fearon Writer

Little Bird Fashion is a Fashion and Lifestyle blog by Jen Holmes, a web copywriter from Leeds who has worked with the likes of Matalan, Bravissimo and Company Magazine.

Jen's motto is 'Fashion for the skint yet stylish', something every student can identify with. The blog encourages charity shopping and channels creative thinking with the Pin interest board and photos.

Her blog is self-effacing and nonintimidating and Jen herself has a friendly tone, unlike many other blogs featuring women dripping in unattainable, expensive designer clothes. www.littlebirdfashion.com

buzzbox.com

Valentines Day: Gift Guide Amy Wakeham Writer

Wilted flowers, discounted chocolates, tacky jewellery... sterotypical Valentine's gifts that us girls are forced to exclaim over. Valentine's Day can be a difficult minefield to manoeuvre. So, boys… show your lady that you care, and choose something from the list of Valentine's gifts that any girl would be delighted to receive. I've done all the thinking for you – what could be easier?

Gucci Flora Collection: Step away from the wilted bunch of carnations on the garage forecourt; they don't say love, they say lazy.

Instead, choose something that, like your love, will never wilt and die (ahem): the Gucci Flora Collection of perfumes. Glamourous Magnolia, Glorious Madarin etc these are the perfect scents to take a girl through spring. Light and floral, she can wear your love on her sleeve every day.

Teaspoon Ring: Mark this Valentine's Day out as something special and choose a gift that she will never expect.

Teaspoon rings (rings made out of melted and bent vintage teaspoons) cover the stalls of markets in Brick Lane, Camden and Brighton. Prove your style prowess by surprising her with one: I can guarantee that she'll love it!

Chocolate Hearts: Stay away from the cheap supermarket box branded with tacky love hearts and messages, and instead choose a little box of chocolate shaped love! These sweet heart – shaped pralines from Hotel Chocolat will make all the difference.

Glamping Yurt Holidays: And finally, the best present a girl could get? Time spent together, of course. Isn't that what Valentine's Day is all about, after all?

www.hiddenvalleyyurts.co.uk/

22

redbrickpaper.co.uk

Travel

Redbrick

3rd February 2012

Groupon offer: Full 2012 Subscription of National Geographic Traveller Magazine, for just £11.99- 61% discount. www.groupon.co.uk

Couch surfing: the social network for travellers?

James Dolton explains why Couchsurfing should be a part of any traveller's adventure....

If you have travelled anywhere in recent years, particularly around Europe, you will probably have heard of 'Couchsurfing'.

I first heard it mentioned while on a short and meticulously planned Inter-railing trip this summer, in a backstreet bar in Budapest, filled with the chatter of fellow travellers. After a short period spent drunkenly establishing that it wasn’t a bizarre daredevil sport involving sofas, I was intrigued. The basic premise seemed to be 'social networking for travellers', but it was spoken about in such warm and effusive tones that it was clearly far more than just an alternative Facebook.

A quick peruse of the website reveals some background information: the organisation was set up in 1999, is based in San Francisco and it is free to join, with links to Facebook. If you sign up, you can choose just to use the 'visiting' element for your travels. Equally, you could just offer up your 'couch'

(metaphorical or otherwise) for other travellers to come and stay.

Or you could do both. Or neither some people apparently use it just to chat online to other travellers or to meet those who live nearby.

There are area-specific groups in which events can be planned. It all seems rather courteous.

A banner with a web page counter stated that the website had, at time of writing, 9,190,696 'Member References'. Stop and think about that. Through the medium of Couch Surfing almost ten million people have met and shared an experience together.

Browsing through these reviews is often heart-warming and regularly hilarious, and the scope of different trips is vast, from brief snippets on vast world tours or overnight stay for people on conferences, Couchsurfing has clearly catered for a lot of people.

There is of course some apprehension on the premise of going to stay in a total stranger’s home. A

Rag rallies up funds Laura Hopkins Reporter

Carnival Rag has teamed up with Student Adventures to bring you and all your friends an epic roadtrip this summer in aid of charity.

Bratislava or Bust is a motoring event for students; this car rally will traverse Europe, taking its competitors to seven countries in seven days from the 31st July.

Following a pre-departure party in Kent, teams will cross the start line and embark on the long drive through France, Belgium, Lichtenstein, Italy –where a party in Lake Garda awaits – Slovenia and finally Bratisava, Slovakia.

There’s £2000 to be won, from Top Gear inspired challenges. Prizes for the best decorated car, the least likely to make it and the car with the most points overall are also up for grabs.

The route is open to choice, but suggestions of spectacular sights will be offered.

Competitors could choose to visit the Ferrari museum in Maranello or cross the infamous Stelvio Pass, the second highest pass in the Alps.

Want to win a car to take on the rally and two free places? At

midday on the 7th February, Carnival Rag are holding a 'Touch it' competition on campus; whoever touches the car for the longest, wins. Advance tickets will be sold for £3 on the guild website, and £4 on the day with all money raised going towards Carnival Rag's charities. All entrants will receive 25% discount on the registration fee.

The registration fee for students is £99 plus a fundraising sponsorship target of £100 to go to charities VSO or The Prostate Cancer Charity.

VSO is an independent international development organisation that recruits volunteers to fight poverty in developing countries.

Prostate Cancer is the UK’s leading charity working to raise awareness, fund research, provide support and information, and campaign to improve the lives of men with prostate cancer.

Information evening for 'Bratislava or Bust' will be held on the 7th February at 6pm in UG04 in the Learning Centre with sign ups opening that day.

For more information visit carnival rag’s website; www.carnivalrag.com or email bob@carnivalrag.com.

girl who we met in Budapest spoke with a worryingly relaxed tone about how she had stayed several times with hosts she now recognised as perhaps being potential serial killers or at least severely unhinged. This included once being shown a 'bedroom' that more closely resembled a clean-kill room from Dexter, complete with tiled walls and camera.

However, whilst this is clearly concerning, it is easy to select only hosts with positive Member References and even have phone or IM contact with them first, making testing the water a little easier.

Indeed, there are some safety concerns that Couchsurfing can actually help a traveller with. Arriving in a strange and unfamiliar town or city, particularly one where you cannot read the signs, it is easy to stumble upon a less than savoury side or fall into tourist-traps no matter how well versed you are, and having a local as a guide can make all the difference.

"Through the medium of Couch Surfing, almost ten million people had met and shared an experience together."

To conclude, this is a particularly delightful anecdote from a traveller who fell asleep on a Eurail train on the relatively short hop from Sienna to Florence. She awoke eight hours later to discover she was now in Slovenia. After a guard took pity on her and let her use the train’s antiquated computer, she tried to look up Couchsurfing hosts in any of the trains remaining destinations, eventually finding one in Ljublijana, the last stop. Thirty minutes later, she was

met off the train by her new host, turning a potentially catastrophic situation into a new adventure.

This is possibly the finest feature of Couchsurfing. It encourages spontaneity and adventure whilst offering a safety net of shelter and support, but it also connects a traveller to an entirely new network of people to interact and share stories with, opening up millions of possible experiences and making every trip individual. The website has even been endorsed by The Guardian, which rates the concepts as 'An excellent way of getting to know a local culture'.

While its free membership and accessibility is obviously a bonus, it is clear that most Couchsurfers do not regard this as the key reason they do it. Indeed, many references are from hosts thanking their visitors for giving them such a good time.

To quote an especially charming Member Reference, perhaps Couchsurfing 'can make the world like a big family!'.

Couch surfing tips: Provide true information about yourself so as not to mislead your potential hosts.

Don't give away information which is personal, such as phone numbers or address; you can message users on the websites IM .

Only contact hosts you think you would get on with from what their profile reveals.

Pay attention to any ground rules laid down by the hosts you hope to stay with and be obedient to them!

Do something to show your appreciation, such as cooking your host a meal Return the favour: offer accommodation to future travellers in your town.

An alternative site is Hospitality Club: www.hospitalityclub.org.

Photo of the Week

photo by team dave, courtesy of Student Adventures

Travel Rant Emily Booth Travel Editor

Bloody tourists. Everyone has been one at some point in their lives and yet still they attract derision.

Admittedly, there is an element of hypocrisy in uttering the ‘bloody tourists’ remark, as no doubt it is said when you too are trying to ogle the ancient temple/ church/square.

However, there should be laws and rules to be abided, travel etiquette perhaps, in order to lessen the feelings of horror that no doubt you too have experienced on seeing the gaggle of cap wearing, camera- wielding, undoubtedly Americans, cruising over from behind a waving umbrella. Like a pack of hyenas, they unintentionally suck out the culture that they are trying to absorb, before moving on to their next prey, leaving the rest of us to see only the bruised remains of whatever it is they have left.

Take a recent trip of mine to Barcelona for example. Although visiting the Spanish side of my family, I was admittedly going to be a pure, unadulterated tourist.

Sagrada Familia? Here I come.

Gaudi’s Park Güell? I’m there.

Quite frankly, the reason people go to these places is because they are worth seeing and I’m not too proud to confess that I too am an ice-cream eating, snappy-happy, culture vulture.

However, after only the first afternoon the sheer volume of tourist groups was quite overwhelming. It isn’t that I am such a hypocrite to ask why they are there when after all I am too, but having to listen to four different languages being projected from tinny microphones from four different corners of a relatively small square, whilst the enthusiastic tour guides give them their money’s worth, really does manage to suck the enjoyment out of a quiet afternoon.

Of course, travel groups can be hugely important for people who could cannot travel on their own and they are, quite rightly, very popular with the older generations who want to travel yet need help with the logistics. I am not saying that they should be banned but merely managed more efficiently.

Smaller groups would surely allow them better access to the sites that they want to see and would undoubtedly dampen the murderous thoughts that can arise when, after slipping down a side street, you meet a barrage of ‘we’ve paid for this, we will not move’ faces.

Exploring new places can be wonderful, and going to the famous world sites well worth it.

However, let us do it with a little more grace. We don’t need fifty photos of one small church and we don’t need to buy snow-balls from every gift shop.

My advice? Go to see what you want to see early in the mornings when the big tourist crowds are still on their cruise ships eating their complimentary breakfast and then when you're done?

Find a wine bar and sit in the air - con, watching the camera -flashing, matching T-shirt wearing lunatics who decide to see the Leaning Tower of Pisa/Coliseum/ St Basilica at midday in August.

3rd February 2012

Redbrick

Food Balsall Heath's jazz and food retreat Izzy Gibbin Writer

Birmingham. Hardly famed for its artistic undercurrent and bohemian vibe, is it? But whilst Brum may not be the new Paris, there are still plenty of places to find great food, fine art and live music if you know where to look. The recently opened Ort Café in Balsall Heath combines all three and more besides.

Walking into the café, which is located in a renovated printing

factory, it's easy to see why Ort has already become a hub of activity in the local area just two months after its opening. The hodgepodge of mismatched furniture – which is sourced almost entirely from Freecycle – and colourful fairy lights make it feel like you have just stepped into a friend's living room. Certainly the atmosphere is very relaxed; people are happily chatting away over cakes, perusing well-thumbed books and discuss-

ing the local art which hangs on the walls. The café seems to be exempt from all the tiresome facets of modern coffee chains: overpriced tea (I know how much a teabag costs!), bored-looking baristas who haven't yet hit puberty and décor that really emulates that 'doctor's waiting room' vibe. Here, the tea is cheap, the food delicious and the staff passionate. We sit down to the special of the day, which is a satay vegetable stir-fry, and a couple of alcoholic drinks. The whole lot comes to about £13 pounds for two people and is absolutely delicious.

'Waste not want not' is their food philosophy; they provide a staple menu of omelettes and other basic dishes, and one or two daily specials. Any food that isn't sold is fed to chickens, and waste is kept to an absolute minimum.

But Ort's real charm goes far beyond good value ethical food and drink. Co-owner Ridhi tells me 'We wanted to make Ort accessible to everyone. Balsall Heath is a low employment area, where people don't have a lot of opportunities. We wanted to create a place where people can become part of something creative, artistic and eclectic.' Ort markets itself as an 'artist's community café and runs language classes, literature and philosophy discussions, live music, art exhibitions and skills de-

velopment workshops, largely on a donations-only basis. Profits made from food and drink go straight back into the community aspect of the café.

A gypsy jazz band that has been setting up in the corner begins their set. They are relentlessly catchy and several members of the audience begin unashamedly dancing. As they rattle through Django Reinhardt's greatest numbers, you'd be forgiven for thinking you were in a Parisian bar. The crowd is truly eclectic; there are people here of all ages and walks of life, and, unlike the majority of Starbucks' clientele, they are all smiling. It is clear to see that Ort's three founders have no interest in chasing a greasy pound. They take real pleasure in creating an easygoing environment in which their customers can learn new skills and enjoy the arts over a hot drink and a home cooked meal. Truly this is a place that makes me proud to be living in Birmingham, and I wholeheartedly recommend you try it for yourself.

You can find out more about Ort Cafe at ortcafe.co.uk. The gypsy jazz band The Trio Rosbifs can be found at http:// www.triorosbifs.com/.

redbrickpaper.co.uk

23

Food Hero Fact

Walter Smith Butchers have 20 outlets across Birmingham and have been in business since 1885.

Recipe Book: Delicious Everyday Suppers Helena Gonda Writer

What shall I cook for dinner tonight? It's a question that crops up on a daily basis. And at this time of year, with New Year's resolutions already on a downward slide, feeling inspired to cook something both tasty and exciting can seem like a challenge. The temptation to whip up that trusty staple of beans on toast is almost too great.

Delicious Everyday Suppers is a fantastic cookbook that will solve your dinner dilemmas every time.

Featuring over a hundred recipes collated from Delicious magazine, it first offers anyone who knows and loves good food some brilliant new ideas for weeknight meals, whilst also encouraging those less adventurous to try new dishes that are easy to prepare and cook. Each dish is illustrated with an impressive photograph, helping novice and well-practiced chefs alike appreciate the power of presentation.

Many recipes feature 'variation' suggestions, helping you to tinker with the recipes to cater exactly to your taste. There's also a description for each dish at the top of the page, so you know exactly what you're letting yourself in for.

Take for example the triedand-tested 'Beef and Bok Choi Noodles' (p.32). Described as 'a Chinese-inspired dish that is not only low in calories, but also quick, simple, healthy and filling', it is not only a personal favourite, but perfect for anyone in a rush or trying to watch their weight.

Entries are split into six sections, covering everything from pasta and rice, to chicken, to meat-

free suppers; there's something for everyone to enjoy. The sections make it easy to pinpoint exactly what you fancy – or rather, to gauge what options are available given your sparsely-stocked student cupboard. Expect innovative recipes that won't break the bank, along with helpful tips such as 'how to take the stress out of cooking', and a handy checklist for those ingredients that are good to have on standby.

This book is perfect for anyone looking to add a bit of variety to their daily meals. It will provide you with new fall-back favourites that you'll come back to again and again.

So, wondering what to cook for dinner tonight? Delicious Everyday Suppers has your answer.

Delicious Everyday Suppers is published by Harper Collins and retails for around £5.

The Magic of Mince Joshua Oxley Writer

Matching chocolate and wine isn't rocket science Nicola Barton Writer

How many evenings have we whiled away with a bar of one and a bottle of the other? It's a widely acknowledged fact that, together, they can complement every film, enhance every conversation and nurse every break-up. But, apparently, finding the perfect combination takes practice. Shame.

According to The Guardian's Fiona Beckett, we should 'think of

fruits that go with chocolate'. And, as such, at the top of our shopping lists should be wines with hints of cherries, raspberries or plums. For example, Sainsbury's Australian Merlot (£4.59), which has 'subtle violet and vanilla aromas balanced with red berries [and] plums', would complement our Cadbury's Dairy Milk, creamy chocolate mousse or chocolate cheesecake, whilst Waitrose's Seriously Plummy Grande Réserve Maury (£9.49) is apparently 'perfect with a…dark chocolate pudding'. And, if white

chocolate's more to our tastes, we could try Sainsbury's Muscat de Saint Jean de Minervois (£4.48) as, apparently, it'll 'pick up any fruit tones on the scene'. Yet, in some cases, it's okay to stick to what we already know. As my research confirmed, chocolate covered strawberries should always be accompanied by Champagne.

It's a serious issue, yet one particular connoisseur's opinion shouldn't constrain you. So drink, eat and taste. It's like conducting a scientific test, really…

As a cheap and easy meat to cook for students who are busy and tired, mince is a must for any freezer. With the most basic of culinary skill, anyone can produce tasty, different, and cheap meals.

'Spag Bol' is a real classic. To start, add two finely chopped onions, two cloves of garlic and heat until the onions are brown. Then add a kilo of mince, continuously stirring until it is cooked. At this point throw in some oregano, basil and chilli to add extra flavour.

Then add chopped up peppers, mushrooms and tinned tomatoes.

Finally, you can add two bottles of pasta sauce, as well as Sacla. The Italian tomato and olive sauce is the one I would recommend. After stirring, and heating thoroughly, you can leave it overnight for the liquid to set before storing it in a container. Then whenever you want just dig in, reheat, add to pasta and sprinkle with parmesan.

Chilli Con Carne is another classic of which there are many fancy and complicated ways to prepare. However, there is one very simple and suitable for students.

Fry two onions, a few garlic cloves, olive oil and a kilo of mince until it is brown. Then add a can of tomatoes, 200ml of beef stock, tomato puree, the ever-present salt and

pepper, and as much chilli powder as you can handle. Cover and simmer for around 25 minutes, add a can of kidney beans, and finally simmer for another 5 minutes.

Again you can use the classic trick of storing it in containers, and reheating it whenever needed.

Cottage Pie could not be simpler. Peel some potatoes, boil them, mash them, then add some milk, salt and pepper and spread over your own mince concoction in an oven-proof dish. Again, cottage pie can be frozen, and subsequently warmed up in the oven whenever you desire. Whilst it is an effort to make the mash potato, once made, cottage pie saves you continuously boiling pasta all week as you can just warm the pie in the oven.

Finally why not try mince in a jacket. This is a personal favourite of our house. Fry the mince with some vegetables (even frozen would do) and add tomato sauce, or some gravy. Turn down the heat and simmer. Once thick, pile in a baked potato and top with some grated cheese.

There are many other alternatives such as cannelloni, and meat balls to try, so feel free to experiment. If anything, I hope this article shows you the ease of making tasty, healthy and cheap food. So go on and give it a go, you know you want to.

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3rd February 2012

redbrickpaper.co.uk

Sport

Men's Lacrosse

Turn to page 26 to find out how the firsts got on in a crucial cup game against Stirling

Pool of talent on hunt for medals Redbrick Sport Editor Sam Price talked to Water Polo club captain Polly Schofield to find out more about a club that represents one of Birmingham's chief medal hopes in the BUCS Championships...

WATER POLO Basic Rules Water Polo is a team game, with seven players on each side at one time, including a goalkeeper. Players tread water the entire game and cannot touch the sides or the bottom of the pool.

Apart from the goalkeeper, players may handle the ball with only hand.

The men's firsts took bronze in last year's BUCS Championship finals, while the women are also in pursuit of a medal this year Charlotte Wilson just need to maintain our standard and stay confident.'

The club this season have been invigorated by the arrival of a new coach, Stewart Baxter. 'Stewart's brought fresh ideas with him, and has got the club working together more. Since September when he came in, there's been much more interaction between the first and second teams.' This impact certainly reflects healthily on the club as a whole, which according to Schofield has had, 'one of its biggest intakes ever, way above our target – we're pretty much full to capacity.'

This is not to say that the water polo club is not open to new members – they welcome them, and contain a blend of both experienced players and newcomers, including Schofield, who had never played before coming to the University. 'We've had a few people join since Christmas; it's a bit difficult though, as it's easier to train up the newcomers at the same time from the beginning

The Week In Numbers

353 72 14

Length of the epic Australian Final between Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic. At 353 minutes it ranks as the longest Grand Slam final in the history of tennis.

England's second innings total after they succumbed to a spectacular collapse, in which only Andrew Strauss and Matt Prior made double figures.

New Zealand amateur golfer Lydia Ko last week became the youngest ever winner of a professional tour event after winning the New South Wales Open by four shots.

100 15

None of Peterborough United's last 100 league games have ended goalless.

Horse Big Buck's won his 15th race in a row at Cheltenham last week, after beating Dynaste to the Cleeve hurdle.

of the year.' Water polo is a fastpaced, tiring game with four quarters and constant substitutions, an aspect which has both advantages and drawbacks. 'There's such a diverse range of abilities that it can be hard to facilitate everyone, as you have experienced players alongside people that have only just taken up the sport.' But as an expanding club with two teams, competition can only be beneficial in the long run.

Water polo league competition is more casual than other university sports, with irregular matches in the U-Polo league format, in which Brum field four teams in different Midlands divisions. But there is nothing casual about their training regime: the club train rigorously, three times a week. This includes two evening sessions in the Munrow, on Mondays and Thursdays, while they also train at the Walsall Gala Baths on Wednesday afternoons, which has a 33-metre competition length, double depth pool, allowing the players to hone their

skills ahead of the BUCS Championships.

With water polo being an Olympic sport this year at London 2012, and with Great Britain competing, this is bound to add spice to this year's BUCS competition and provide incentive to win the gold medal. Manchester may prove the team to beat, having won gold in both the men and women's championships last year, but their victorious 'keeper of last year', Amy Clark, now plays for Birmingham having taken a postgraduate course, possibly giving Brum an important advantage.

'The aim this year is for both teams to medal in BUCS, and to keep to the high standard we've set ourselves', says Schofield. With a strong infrastructure, a new coach and in the midst of a unique Olympic year, this term could be the time to shine for the water polo club, who will be determined to come back from Leeds with medals to further emphasise Birmingham's sporting prowess.

The Week In Quotes 'It was the longest Grand Slam final of all time. Just hearing that fact makes me cry. Wimbledon is right up there because it is the tournament I always wanted to win. But this comes out on top.'

Novak Djokovic was overwhelmed after winning an epic five set final against rival Rafael Nadal to retain the Australian Open.

'It was a horrible day to watch and a horrible day to be involved in. We got ourselves into such a great position to win the Test so to be bowled out for 72 is devastating.'

England coach Andy Flower was fuming with his side's abject capitulation against Pakistan, and some batsmen's places could be up for grabs.

'It's just crazy. To get my mind around what happened in the last 30 minutes is pretty hard to do right now. My heart is out to Kyle. I feel bad for him to have to go through this.'

Brandt Snedeker couldn't believe his luck after Kyle Stanley triplebogeyed the 18th to gift Snedeker a Farmers Insurance Open win.

'The fans are entitled to support their team – absolutely no problem. A bit of banter between two teams – brilliant.'

Kenny Dalglish on Liverpool fans' conduct after the 2-1 victory over Manchester United, in which they consistently booed Patrice Evra.

Physical contact is a key component as players manouvere for position in front of the goal. Referees award fouls for infringements such as obstruction, touching the ball with two hands and taking the ball under water.

Goals, worth one point, are scored when a player throws or pushes the ball into the goal.

The Redbrick Sport Quiz 1) After winning the Australian Open, Novak Djokovic will be in pursuit of a 'Grand Slam'.

Who was the last male player to achieve this?

2) Who will be defending her 100m crown at the Olympics this year?

3) Who is Pakistan's leading wicket taker of all time?

4) The 1953 FA Cup Final is remembered as the 'Matthews Final', but who scored a hat-trick in that match, the only player ever to do so?

5) For which player did Chelsea FC receive their highest ever transfer fee of £24 million?

1, Rod Laver 2, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce 3, Wasim Akram 4, Stan Morgensen 5, Arjen Robben

'Gruelling, but fun.' This was club captain Polly Schofield's description of water polo, a sport renowned for its intensity and brutality and, according to Schofield, can resemble 'rugby in the water'.

However, there is an immense amount of skill required in water polo, and Birmingham's teams are among the University's leading medal hopes for the BUCS Championships in March. The men took bronze last year, and this year Schofield is hoping that the club will build on this recent success to gain medals at the finals in Leeds.

The club began the pursuit of medals last weekend in the first round, where both the men and women's teams progressed with two wins and a loss to book a place in the semi-finals, which take place this month. Each stage takes a round robin format, where Birmingham are drawn into a group of four, from which the top two progress to the finals. 'It depends who we're drawn against, but we should have a good chance. We

Matches are in four eightminute quarters, with two minute stoppages between each quarter. Each team are permitted two timeouts.

Redbrick

Sport Thoughts Redbrick Sport writer Frankie Conway argues that Roger Federer's success in major tournaments may be down to fortunate timing as well as his skill on the court...

Super-sub Farnworth secures bragging rights Men's Football

Conference Cup L16

Birmingham 2nds

1

BCU 2nds

0

James Newbon Sport Reporter

Success in any given sport has a lot to do with the rivals in your era, and it is my belief that if Roger Federer had emerged at the same time as his two current adversaries, Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal, his tally of grand-slam wins would be a significant fraction of its current total of sixteen.

Federer is fortunate in that, at 30, he is five and six years older than Nadal and Djokovic respectively and so racked up a high percentage of his grand-slams before either of his main rivals developed.

He has experienced severe woes against Nadal, where he trails 18-9 in their head to head, and 8-2 at grand-slam events.

The Spaniard’s dominance over Federer started when he defeated the former world number one in the French Open semifinals in 2005 on his nineteenth birthday when Federer was in his prime at the age of 24.

As their rivalry has unravelled, it has become increasingly apparent that Federer’s seemingly impenetrable self-belief is somewhat fragile. Nadal, it seems, unsettles the Swiss star, where time and again he has broken down both Federer’s will and his game.

Sport 25

3rd February 2012 redbrickpaper.co.uk

An 89th minute goal from substitute Adam Farnworth put Birmingham seconds through to the last eight of the Conference Cup at the expense of local rivals Birmingham City University. With the spectre of extra-time looming, Farnworth popped up to tap home from two yards and give Birmingham a deserved victory after their much improved second half performance.

Early exchanges saw Ben Sunderland and Sam Stretton have shots saved by City goalkeeper Matt Williams as the visitors struggled to get out of their own half.

But in truth there was little action of note in the half. A challenge by Amit Karavandra that earned the City player a yellow card summed up a tough tackling performance from the away side that restricted the hosts to only half chances, including those of Michael Roche and Josh Furness.

The home side had better opportunities at the beginning of the second half but were guilty of wasting them. Within a minute, Sunderland played through Furness but the number 11 could only find the side of the upright to squander the best chance of the game so far. Roche then shot over from the edge of the box, while David Heaton should have done better with a Furness cross as he popped his volley over the bar.

With the hosts now playing a more open game, it presented opportunities for City to exploit up front. Ryan Spelling saw a free

kick comfortably held by goalkeeper Ben West, while striker Ash Ohindsa poked his shot over from just four yards.

But from then on the game was all about the home side. Midfielder Heaton was involved in two great chances: his cross was headed wide by Furness despite being well placed to score, and a later free-kick was palmed onto the post by Williams.

Farnworth was then introduced with 20 minutes remaining and the substitute almost had an instant effect as he created space to cross only to for Tom Meechan to head over. Five minutes later the hosts had the ball in the back of the net as Stretton put through Roche, whose effort was adjudged to have been offside.

The referee then became the centre of attention, as City’s Ohindsa was lucky to escape without any card after a studs-showing

tackle on Heaton which left the hosts incensed. He finally did reach into his pocket to show a yellow card as Spelling felled Roche, before waving away a clear penalty appeal from the home side when Sunderland was felled on his way into the box But the hosts did not need the penalty as shortly after, with one minute left on the clock, Heaton’s free kick was knocked down into the path of Farnworth who finished from close range to put Birmingham through to the quarter finals.

Coach Matthew Rodney praised his side’s second half performance, ‘in the second half we passed the ball more. In the first half we were forced to play longer but when the subs came on in the second we started playing the passing game.’ He’ll hope that his side can continue in that vein going into the next round.

University of Birmingham 2nds vs Birmingham City University 2nds

There were some heavy challenges in a physical local derby Millie Guy

Birmingham dunk out Notts Women's Basketball

Trophy Quarter-Final

Birmingham 1sts

52

Nottingham 1sts

42

Tom Williamson Sport Reporter

Although Federer has enjoyed more success against the current world number one, Novak Djokovic, his greater age must be considered. It is hard to gauge how these players would have fared against each other if they had emerged simultaneously.

However, if we consider that a 24-year old Djokovic is currently dominating a 25-year old Nadal, where a 24-year old Federer experienced losses to a nineteen year old Nadal, we can see that Djokovic possesses a far more complete game than Federer did at the same age.

It is my view that Federer, Nadal and Djokovic are the three greatest players of all time. But given that only five of Federer’s sixteen grand-slam titles have involved him beating his two main rivals en-route to the title, compared to eight out of ten for Nadal and five out of five for Djokovic, we can see that the latter two players have had to work harder for their major successes.

For me, this is a significant factor in placing Federer below his two rivals, into third on the alltime list.

The Munrow Sports Hall played host to an enthralling women’s basketball quarter final clash between the Birmingham and Nottingham first teams. The away side went into the game in fantastic form, having won five of their last six games. Brum were also doing well with four wins in six. The game was hard fought, and both teams defended well yet by the final whistle Birmingham had edged out Nottingham to win 52-42.

The game started slowly, with both teams focusing on defence and protecting their nets with vigour. Birmingham opened up an early 6-2 lead, with field goals from Ellice Beale, Anne Martin and Eleanor Minter. In this quarter, Maeve Higham played well for Birmingham, passing superbly for her team. Despite her best efforts, the scoring was low, ending 11-5 to Birmingham.

The second quarter began with Nottingham’s Anne Marie Wadsworth scoring a field goal for her team to take the scores to 11-7. Wadsworth excelled here, controlling her team’s game from

Despite a Notts revival, Birmingham prevailed to reach the BUCS Trophy semi-final the centre of the court. However, Birmingham soon had the better of the half and pushed the score up to 20-9. By this stage the points were coming more quickly for both teams, with Amelia Reynolds scoring for Nottingham and Minter for Birmingham. They continued to advance, and finished the half 3217 up.

In the third, Birmingham continued to stay in front with Mathilde Bohemme and Higham on the mark for the hosts. Here, the importance of the game led to many

feisty challenges. Birmingham ended the quarter ahead at 45-30.

In the fourth quarter, Nottingham staged a mini-revival, led by goals from Marie Bruser, which took the score to 45-35. However, they soon faded and ended up losing 53-42 with Caroline Evans on the mark repeatedly.

At the end of the game, Birmingham were understandably delighted to have knocked out league leaders Nottingham, and the players celebrated their success on the court afterwards. Nottingham

Meurig Gallagher

were deflated and disappointed after such a tough match.

‘It is always interesting playing Birmingham, partly because of their player, Jo Blakeway’ said their coach, Lee English. ‘It is disappointing obviously to have lost the head to head against them this year. The Lions are a more aggressive side than us, so this gives them an advantage. Today they fought more and scored more open baskets. We had a slow start and slowly gained momentum, but not enough in the end.’

26 Sport

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Redbrick

Brilliant Brum batter Sheffield Men's Hockey

Trophy Quarter-Final

Birmingham 2nds

7

Sheffield 1sts

0

Sport Reporter

Campus Relays

The annual Campus Relays have just been announced, and are taking place on Saturday 3rd March, beginning at 12pm. This includes the men's 4x3km, women's 3x3km and mixed 3x3km. Entry is ÂŁ20 for the men's teams, and ÂŁ15 for the women's and mixed teams, to be received no later than the 25th February. For more information search 'RLF Campus Relays' on Facebook to find the event page.

It was one way traffic as Birmingham booked their place in the BUCS Trophy semi-finals lar through balls. The fourth goal came when one ball beat the whole defence leaving Ben Stone free to reverse hit a finish. Stone then benefitted again when five minutes later he was allowed time and space to smash the loose ball low into the net.

It became a rout soon after and

Sheffield looked utterly demoralised. They surrendered possession twice and allowed Chris Rawlings the luxury of three attempts to beat the grounded keeper with a cheeky lob. Birmingham hit the post twice when scoring looked easier, but by this time it didn't matter. Towards the end, the seventh goal was add-

Millie Guy

ed by Will Martin who hit the rebound from the edge of the area.

Both coach Richard Thom and captain Tom Moss put their success down to the early goal, which allowed them a platform to build on. The result leaves them facing an away trip to either Manchester or Newcastle.

A sterling performance sees Brum into semis Men's Lacrosse

Trophy Quarter-Final

Birmingham 1sts

9

Stirling 1sts

5

Tom Cooper Sport Reporter

Birmingham men's lacrosse team secured a well-earned 9-5 victory over Stirling University in a competitive encounter at Metchley. This quarter final match was a repeat of last year's encounter in which Birmingham won narrowly, 6-5. The home side went into the match hoping to replicate this performance and began on the front foot with a series of early attacks leading to the opening goals, scored by Jamie McHarg and Yosinori Nozaki. On both occasions, however, a clinical Stirling side responded with strikes from attackers Derek White and Malcolm Kidd, largely against the run of play. For Kidd in particular this was to prove a memorable game as he ended the display with three goals to his credit and drawing the applause of Stirling captain, Jamie Fleming.

The first quarter ended unsatisfactorily for the hosts with the scores tied at two apiece despite Birmingham controlling the possession and enjoying most of the

Squash

There was a night of Premier League entertainment at the Munrow Squash Courts last Tuesday, as the University of Birmingham team went down 3-2 to Mercedes Benz Nottingham in a closely fought battle. Birmingham had given themselves the best possible chance after taking a 2-0 lead following wins from Deon Saffrey and Nathan Lake, but Nottingham came roaring back to level the contest at 2-2.

The decider ebbed and flowed in similar fashion, with Nottingham's Eddie Charlton surviving four match points before eventually beating Jaymie Haycocks in a thriller, 7-11 9-11 12-10 11-5 11-8.

Visit the UBSport website to read Phil Shepka's full match report.

Felix Keith

Birmingham men's hockey second team booked their place in the semi-final of the cup with an excellent 7-0 victory against Sheffield firsts. An early goal set the platform for a dominant Brum to control the game from start to finish. The victory was especially sweet because it served as revenge for the third team, who had been knocked out

by Sheffield in the previous round.

Any confidence Sheffield came with was soon crushed when the hosts struck within the first minute: a quick, incisive move down the left channel was finished expertly by Ben Sykes, beating the keeper at the near post. The away team had a spell of pressure following the early set back, but failed to turn possession into any goal threatening chances.

Birmingham doubled their lead 20 minutes in when Ben Andrews got a touch on a Sykes shot to direct it through the keeper's legs.

It got even worse for the away side three minutes later when Sykes beat his marker and fed Ben Scarott with a weighted through ball, who obligingly smashed it past the helpless keeper. The home team continued to pile on the pressure with their quick counter-attacking style paying dividends.

After the break the away team pushed up in search of getting back in the game, but this only invited further pressure. The danger signs were clear straight away, when Sykes was clean through but just failed to control two simi-

Sport Shorts

Birmingham's experience saw them through chances. The message to the team from Captain Peter Cail was to tighten the defence and make better use of their many attacking opportunities.

The second quarter proved a similarly tight affair with both sides playing well; however Cail led by example, shooting Birmingham in front before half time. This lead could have been much greater, illustrated by the home side's domination of the face offs (which they

Michael Drury

would eventually lead 11-2 by the end of the match, thanks to the fine efforts of Adam Sherlock and Tom McMullen). Despite this, opposition goalkeeper Andy McRitchie demonstrated superb reflexes to pull off a series of excellent saves to keep the score down, meaning at the half way point Stirling were right in touch.

After the break Birmingham visibly upped the pressure, which paid dividends: Cail scored his sec-

ond of the game while Japanese masters student Nozaki secured a further three, completing his hattrick and leaving the home side 7-2 ahead. 'We planned to up the ante in the third quarter' said Cail, 'until then we had not taken enough of our chances but the push paid off as that's when we took control of the match.' In the final quarter the tenacious Scottish team recovered the score to 9-5 as the home side appeared to ease off knowing the win was secure, although there were further goals from McHarg and one for Will Thompson after a long passing move. 'I am proud of the way the team played, the attack were particularly impressive while the midfield controlled possession well, and it's nice to see an improvement on last year's score' beamed the victorious captain Cail. The opposition captain Fleming reflected that, 'we had a lot of freshers playing today so overall I think we did ourselves justice. If you take out the third quarter we would have drawn the match. In the end Birmingham and particularly striker Nozaki were a little too good for us to deal with'.

For Birmingham, a semi-final with Leeds Metropolitan now awaits. 'It's going to be a tough game because they are really good' said Cail, 'but I am confident if we play our best we stand a great chance'.

Other Results and Next Week's Fixtures Results: Men's Hockey 1sts beat Edinburgh 1sts 5-2 Women's Lacrosse 1sts beat Oxford 1sts 10-5 Netball 1sts beat Loughborough 3rds 36-33 Golf 1sts drew 3-3 against UCLAN 1sts Women's Football 1sts lost 5-3 against Loughborough 1sts Women's Rugby lost 27-25 against Exeter 1sts

Next week's first team fixtures on campus: Game of the week: Women's Hockey 1sts vs Loughborough 1sts Bournbrook 3.45pm Men's Basketball vs Loughborough 1sts Munrow Sports Hall 8.30pm Women's Lacrosse vs Manchester 1sts Munrow Track 5.30pm Men's Volleyball vs Loughborough 1sts Munrow New Gym 7.30pm Men's Football vs Northumbria 1sts Munrow Track 2.30pm Netball vs Nottingham Trent 1sts Munrow Sports Hall 2.30pm

This week in...

1999 The FA sacked England football manager Glenn Hoddle after he had given an outspoken interview detailing his views that disabled people were being punished for their sins in a previous life.

2008 In one of American Football's greatest ever upsets, the New York Giants triumphed 17-14 over the previously undefeated New England Patriots in Super Bowl. The two sides, coincidentally, are meeting in two days time.

Couldn't make it up Meltdown alert: Kyle Stanley was at one stage seven shots in front on the final day of the PGA Tour's Farmers Insurance Open, yet still lost. Still three shots ahead at the 72nd hole, he spectacularly found the water (à la Jean van de Velde) and triple-bogeyed, forcing a playoff which Brandt Snedeker won.

Six Nations Preview

Youth development With some British sports struggling internationally, Online Sport Editor Joel Lamy looks at why Britain is falling behind other countries in sport, and argues that long term development is needed.

Redbrick Sport writer James Dolton looks ahead to the upcoming Six Nations rugby tournmant which kicks off on February 4th. The Six Nations will also be a main talking point in this week's Redbrick Sport Podcast.

Where are they now? Weekend Wager

Classic Goal...

Swansea to win 2-1

After beating Arsenal and drawing with Chelsea, Swansea are in a rich vein of form, and travel to a West Brom side who haven't won at home in the league since November. Swansea are 12/1 to win 2-1; a scoreline Norwich have twice inflicted upon the Baggies at the Hawthorns recently.

Club in Focus... Cheerleading The Birmingham Pussycats celebrate their 10th anniversary this year. They are so-called because they were the cheerleading team of the University's American Football squad, the Birmingham Lions. As the club has developed, they have competed in outside competitions, two or three times a year including the ICC and the Heart of England.

They welcome gymnasts and dancers of all abilities, who are trained up to compete. And last year, they won the 'Fittest Society Competition' in a two horse race with Equestrian Society.

The Redbrick Crossword

Email Address: Phone Number:

Scribble box

He may not be the biggest name in golf, but he's fast becoming one of the most well-liked.

The Englishman won the biggest tournament of his career on Sunday, the Abu Dhabi Championship, fending off Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy.

YouTube search: Carlos Alberto 1970 Wonder Goal Considered one of the greatest goals ever scored, it capped off a superb 1970 World Cup Final win for Brazil. It involved eight outfield players, a perfect pass from Pele at the edge of the box, and a fierce shot from captain Carlos Alberto.

The Paul Nicholls trained horse is one of, if not the best, hurdlers in the history of the sport.

He's won three consecutive World Hurdles, and wowed the Cheltenham crowd last weekend with an easy victory in the Cleeve Hurdle.

and Villains...

Senegal

Club Captain: Kate WilloughbyParsons Contact:

Scottish Rugby Union

http://www.birmingham-pussycats.webs.com/ Search 'University of Birmingham Pussycats Cheerleading' on Facebook Email: birminghampussycats@yahoo. co.uk

Mordo Nahum Puzzles Editor

Completed crosswords to be submitted to the Redbrick office.

(Redbrick Office located in the basement of the Guild)

Name:

Robert Rock

Despite having Demba Ba and Papiss Cisse as their strike force, Senegal performed dismally in the African Cup of Nations.

They lost to Libya, Zambia and Equatorial Guinea leaving them bottom of a group they had been tipped to win.

This week's prize is a £5 Waterstones Gift Voucher

Please complete this form before you hand in your completed crossword into the Redbrick office.

It would be unfair to neglect Rafael Nadal because he helped create one of the most mesmerising sporting occasions of recent years.

Djokovic won after a gruelling five hours and 53 minutes, setting up a potential 2012 Grand Slam.

Big Buck's

West Brom v Swansea, Saturday 3pm

Olympic Countdown The Frenchman Louis Bastien (1881-1963) competed in the 1900 Parisian Olympics, and was the recipient of the 175th gold medal of the modern Olympic Games. He won it in the men's 25km cycling event.

Djokovic (and Nadal)

This week's Wednesday debate asks the question, 'will Andy Murray ever win a grand slam?'

James Campbell makes the case for Murray eventually triumphing, wheras James Newbon is less optimistic of the Scot's chances.

Not the usual offer made in the transfer window, but Italian goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon has received an invitation to appear in an 'adult entertainment' film once he retires. 'I need a real man' said actor Rocco Siffredi.

days to go

Heroes...

This week on the Redbrick website...

Andy Murray

René Higuita, it seems, has a lifestyle as crazy as his scorpion kick.

Imprisoned in 1993 after involvement in a drug-based kidnapping, he has recently expressed an interest in a career in politics. That was after a spell on a Columbian reality TV show in 2005 and a televised (and extensive) cosmetic surgery makeover.

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Redbrick

Across

Down

1. Irish author of Waiting For Godot (6, 7) 8. Wealthy (7) 9. Molecule of three oxygen atoms (5) 10. Ballerina costume (4) 11. Jean-Jacques ________, 18th century philosopher (8) 13. Required (6) 14. Bloodsucking insect (3, 3) 17. See 19 19/17. Largest body of water between U.S. and Canada (4, 8) 21. Go in (5) 22. Third largest U.S. city (7) 23. Directory of numbers (9, 4)

1. Mercifully brief (5, 3, 5) 2. Canadian policeman (7) 3. Fair; flat (4) 4. Jenson ______, British F1 driver (6) 5. Chinese dish of meat, eggs and vegetables (4, 4) 6. Run away to get married (5) 7. Collection of stories by Rudyard Kipling, later adapted into a Disney film (3, 6, 4) 12. Predator (anag.) (8) 15. Cockiness (7) 16. Garment used to keep warm or dry, originally from the Andes (6) 18. Leapt (anag.) (5) 20. Cereal grain that 5 down is typically served with (4)

Whoops! Scotland were left with some explaining to do after Tshirts boasting about their victory in the Calcutta Cup accidentally went on sale before tomorrow's game.

This came after coach Andy Robinson had accused England of being arrogant.

Whoops again!

1_2_3_4_5_6_7 _=_=_=_=_=_=_ 8______=9____ _=_=_=_=_=_=_ 0___=a_______ _=_=b=_=_===_ c_____=d__e__ _===_=f=_=_=_ g_h_____=i___ _=_=_=_=j=_=_ k____=l______ _=_=_=_=_=_=_ m____________

28 Sport

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Redbrick

Making a splash Water Polo club captain Polly Schofield talks to Redbrick about medal aspirations for the upcoming BUCS Championships, p24

Oxford swept aside by champions

Sarah Haycroft (right) was a thorn in Oxford's side, but went off injured late on in the match Women's Hockey

BUCS Quarter-Final

Birmingham 1sts

4

Oxford 1sts

1

Josh Hunt Sport Reporter

Brum celebrate their passage into the semi-finals

Tom Flathers

Oxford 1sts were well beaten 4-1 by Birmingham’s women, who made braving the cold outside worthwhile for a crowd who turned out in good numbers, as they battled through to the semi finals of their title defence.

In truth, it could have been a far greater victory for the home team, but the match wasn’t all plain sailing. Head coach Phil Gooderham predicted that Oxford would be ‘well drilled’ and insisted that his team was expecting a stern challenge.

True to Gooderham’s word, Oxford looked more than a match for Brum’s outfit and dominated the opening ten minutes of the proceedings, despite one early chance for England Under-21 player Sarah Haycroft in the opening minute of the contest. However, Oxford’s territorial and possession dominance didn’t translate into many shots on Amy Jones’ goal, as fullbacks Kirsty Dawson and Lotta Hof did just enough to keep the game scoreless under intense pressure.

Nevertheless, it seemed inevitable that the home team’s resistance would falter; that was until a rare foray into Oxford territory saw Birmingham snatch the opening goal completely against the

run of play. The goal didn’t signal the end of Oxford's resistance, but once the home side had got on the score sheet chances came on a much more regular basis, and it wasn’t too long before Jenna Woolven bagged herself a goal to double the lead and put Birmingham in a commanding position.

Oxford coach and former Great Britain star John Shaw was getting increasingly animated on the sidelines, imploring his side to press Birmingham’s midfield, as the hosts began to dominate proceedings, putting Oxford’s goal under relentless pressure.

Despite Shaw’s best efforts, Oxford couldn’t handle Birmingham when they got some momentum going, as time after time attacks ended with swift counter punches from the most recent successful side in British university hockey.

As Oxford conceded more and more fouls, Birmingham racked up the pressure further, and the third goal was no surprise when it arrived. Another foul led to yet another penalty corner, and a clever one-two allowed Haycroft to find the back of Oxford’s goal from no more than four yards out.

Half time couldn’t come soon enough for the Oxford players, or indeed the supporters, many of whom took the time to get in a warm snack or hot drink during the interval. Unfortunately for the visitors, their opponents put the game beyond their reach before the referee called time on the opening half as Birmingham’s Becky Slater swept home another goal after just 32 minutes of play.

Half time gave Oxford a chance to regroup, and regroup

Tom Flathers

they did. Before some of the crowd had a chance to return to the sidelines, they had pulled a goal back.

A defensive lapse led to a flick being awarded to the trailing side, and it was coolly put away despite Jones’ best efforts.

The match turned into a scrappy affair after Oxford’s goal.

Mistakes were made on both sides as possession was repeatedly thrown away under pressure.

Oxford looked the most likely to score, but it was Birmingham who came closest when they did have the ball. A stunning individual run

by Emily Atkinson saw her beat four players but fail to find the Oxford goal, and Haycroft could have added more if it wasn’t for the excellent reactions of the opposing keeper, who was fortunate not to see a Brum forward following in to pounce on the rebound.

When Haycroft went down with what appeared to be cramp, Oxford momentarily had a twoplayer advantage, with Haycroft receiving attention from a teammate. As was often the case, Oxford were unable to turn this advantage into a goal, with the ball being struck well wide of Adam's goal when a little more patience and composure might well have led to a chance from a much simpler angle. Oxford continued to fight bravely, but the addition of Xena Hughes from the bench solidified the Birmingham defence and Dawson had put the ball over late on in the final chance of the match.

An encouraging win, and a hugely entertaining one; Birmingham look a good bet to retain their BUCS crown this year.

INSIDE Turn to page 26 to find out how the men's lacrosse firsts and men's hockey seconds made the semi-finals of BUCS Trophy competition