Redbrick 1st May 2015

Redbrick: The University of Birmingham's Official Student Newspaper Since 1936

Trailer Update: Revised Franchises

Jess Ennis looks at franchises making a comeback this year Film / page 16

How to cook the ultimate steak Ella Downing shares her family tips to make the perfect BBQ centrepiece Food / page 22

24 Hours in...

York Ally Head explores the northern city that stole her heart Travel / page 27

Top 5 Revision Websites

80% staff cut proposed for Neuroscience and Pharmacology courses Sabrina Dougall / News, page 3

• Students criticise department's proposals in open letter • Guild Vice President (Education), Joe Armer, condemns lack of consultation and information for students • College staff member expresses concern and dissatisfaction over potential changes General Election: Students vote on their most important policies / page 6

Ellie Patten shares the websites to survive during revision Sci&Tech / page 10 www.redbrick.me join@redbrick.me @redbrickpaper /redbrickpaper

Friday 1st May - Friday 19th June 2015 Vol. 79, Issue 1461

The Importance of Going to the Theatre Redbrick Meets: Marika Hackman

by Imogen Tink / Culture, page 21

by Natalie Hatton / Music, page 12

02 1st May - 19th June 2015

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Editorial

It's been a turbulent year for Redbrick but I'll miss it James Phillips Editor

@JMPhillips92

The end of my time as Editor of Redbrick has arrived and, needless to say, it has been a fantastic and rewarding year. From covering campus news, organising General Election coverage, and putting the newspaper together every fortnight, it's been nothing short of an exciting year to be involved.

Of course, the paper would not have come together without the wonderful team that Redbrick has. Everyone involved has done a truly remarkable job. Everyone involved in Redbrick is a volunteer, balancing the production of the paper with their studies, and this is no easy task. When a problem arises or a breaking news story appears, our writers, editors and photographers rush to get our coverage done. You can't underestimate their commitment.

Yet, editing the paper has not come without its trials though, and certain experiences could have been easier. During the Summer break, I was asked to come in for a meeting with a Guild sabbatical officer for a meeting regarding proofreading. Fortunately, I was in Birmingham at the time, so I obliged.

However, when I sat down for the discussion, the topic was entirely different from what I'd anticipated. I was told, quite simply, that the Guild would not be supporting the financing of Redbrick after Christmas.

Needless to say, this was not good news, and I began exploring other options for financing the paper. This, fortunately, was not necessary, as I was called in for another meeting the following week, where I was told by another Sabbatical Officer that this

was not the case. Rather, there was a funding shortfall for the newspaper and, instead, the number of papers we would now produce would be fortnightly. This was not desirable, of course, but it was far better than the original proposal. It was a lack of advertisements that had caused our shortfall, so our committee began to contact companies to try and increase our advertising revenue, only to later find that we cannot organise the paper advertising ourselves. I'll return to this.

Upon return to University in the new academic year, we set about producing our first edition, only to come across another problem: the Guild's insurance policy for the Redbrick website had expired. For us, this means that we have no coverage if we accidentally publish something libellous or defamatory, or break the law in some way, the Guild - as Editor-in-Chief - would be sued for some money. Seeking to reinsure the website, the Guild Sabbatical Officers presented us with a proposal: that every article that would go online would have to be approved by the President or the Vice President (Activities and Development).

Furthermore, all these articles would have to be sent at least two days prior to its publication.

We could not accept this proposal, as we had too many concerns. Firstly, it would have limited our publishing ability, particularly in terms of live blogs and breaking news stories. Secondly, it is completely impractical; the Sabbatical Officers already have enough work to do without the addition of between 40-50 articles a week to proofread. Thirdly, it completely undermined the authority and legitimacy of Redbrick as a (fairly) independent newspaper. Finally, requiring approval of every article to be published by Redbrick put too much power

in the hands of our Sabbatical Officers.

They could hypothetically veto an article if it was critical of them, or if it might damage relations with the University, with no valid reason. Bearing in mind that the Sabbatical Officers already have the final approval of our paper edition, all of Redbrick's publishing ability would be transferred from Redbrick into a political organisation with its own aims, which we sometimes criticise.

We rejected this proposal and, as far as we know, negotiations are ongoing (we haven't heard anything for months).

Having come across this proposal, however, I immediately contacted other student newspapers through the Student Publication Association, asking for their thoughts and advice. This, somehow, got leaked out of the group, and I was contacted by a national newspaper to talk about it, as part of a wider article on censorship of student newspapers.

I declined to comment, respecting how our negotiations were ongoing. This national newspaper, however, summarised our position, anonymising us. This was when I received phone calls from the Guild Sabbatical Officers, calling me up to their offices. I went there, knowing what the discussion topic would be (despite not being told), only to be shouted at for talking to other people about the proposal. Since then, I have refused to attend a meeting with the Sabbatical Officers that has not been organised on my terms.

We now return to marketing. One of our key priorities this year was to ensure the continuance of Redbrick in the new academic year by attempting to coordinate some advertising. We introduced a marketing team and later, at our AGM, introduced a Head of Marketing (we'll be electing this in the new year if you're interested!). This

Redbrick Editorial Team Editors James Phillips Matt Moody editor@redbrick.me Deputy Editors George Bearman Safiyyah Gareeboo Lucy Moseley Shannon Carey deputy@redbrick.me

News Editors Sabrina Dougall Danyal Hussain Isma Azad Sophie Dober news@redbrick.me Comment Editors Daniella Bassett James Lentschner Mason Cusack comment@redbrick.me

Digital Editors Julia Yan Mason Cusack digital@redbrick.me

Culture Editors Charlotte Spence Lucy Mounfield Andrea Giannini culture@redbrick.me

Lead Developer Andrew Spencer Roshni Patel Film Editors developer@redbrick.me Hayley Allanson Jay Crosbie Tom Lofkin film@redbrick.me

Music Editors Hannah Coles Blaise Radley Matt Moody music@redbrick.me Life&Style Editors Amy Wakeham Bethany Barley Elizabeth Green Ayshea Baker Giulia Bardelli Carys Allott lifestyle@redbrick.me Travel Editors Tashaa Naidoo Nadhirah Syalin Ally Head travel@redbrick.me Television Editors Jaffrina Jahan Shannon Carey tv@redbrick.me

Sci&Tech Editors Emma Houghton Rachel Taylor Amy Thompson tech@redbrick.me

Food Editors Rosie Twells Sarah Dickinson Jo Yorke food@redbrick.me Sport Editors Alex Kronenberg Tom Dodd Will Robey sports@redbrick.me

Photography Editors Cherona Chapman Evie Ford photography@redbrick.me

Senior Editorial Assistant Hannah Sharron ea@redbrick.me Editorial Assistants Anna Gunn Amy Hunt Emma Roper Gurnesha Bola Jess Allsopp Rachel Deevey Sophie Preece Stefan Pace Pippa Smith

was when we found out that the best we can do is pass on the advertising requests to the Guild marketing department, and no more than that. This is what we did, getting somewhat confused when these never translated into actual advertising. This lack of advertising continues to manifest itself (ironically, not in this issue), especially when we found our first issue of 2015 completely void of adverts. Yet, it's not that we don't receive advertising requests. I am of the understanding that advertising has actually been turned down by the Guild this year. Why? Because it was for an external letting agent, and the Guild has its own letting agent; it would be contrary to the Guild's interests. Bearing in mind that one of the reasons our funding was cut was that the Guild 'did not want to be the main financial contributor' to Redbrick, this decision did not make sense.

So, we've asked (many times) to be involved in these marketing decisions in some way. We're currently not allowed; we can't organise advertising, and we can't see the financial accounts for advertising in Redbrick. We're the only Guild society that cannot see, in entirety, its own finances.

I don't want to end on such a bleak note however. Despite these difficulties and frustrations, being Editor of Redbrick has been fantastic and it will be something I miss.

Nevertheless, I don't want to finish my year without holding the Guild to account for these decisions.

I could not have got through this year without Redbrick's amazing committee, editors, writers and other contributors. Good luck to my successor, Matt Moody, who I know will continue to produce such a highquality student newspaper. And, on a final note, if you're not involved in Redbrick yet, get involved now - you won't regret it.

Redbrick Guild of Students Edgbaston Park Road Birmingham B15 2TT 0121 251 2462 editor@redbrick.me Redbrick is printed through www.mortonsprint.com 01507 523 456 Paper Advertising Contact Linda Langley in Guild Marketing on 0121 251 2524 Online Advertising Contact marketing@redbrick.me Designed and typeset by Redbrick Copyright (C) Redbrick 2015 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.

redbrick.me/news

1st May - 19th June 2015

03

80% of lecturers may be cut from Neuroscience and Pharmacology department Sabrina Dougall News Editor

@Sabrina_Dougall

Students have expressed concern over proposed changes to Neuroscience and Pharmacology in the College of Medical and Dental Sciences (MDS). Redbrick understands that the number of lecturers is likely to be reduced from fifty to around nine.

It has been made clear to Medical and Dental Science students via email that funding for some areas of Pharmacology and Neuroscience will be reduced.

Alina Kabeer-Ali, first year Medical Science student, said that the University’s reputation for neuroscience and pharmacology teaching is ‘one of the reasons I applied for the course’. She feels ‘unhappy’ that the cuts are being made since she had no prior knowledge of them before accepting an undergraduate place.

Students have received email replies to concerns they have voiced. However, several students said that replies from the College have been ‘quite vague’. ‘I’m still not 100% sure what’s happening,’ said Sophie Allen, a first year Medical Science student. She is concerned that the proposed reduction in staff will adversely affect her final year studies in Neuropharmacology.

Students in the College of MDS have told Redbrick that these changes are causing hesitation over module choices for the next academic year, as it is not yet known if preferred teaching staff will still be in the department come September.

In March, MDS students were told via

email that the changes represent ‘an exciting opportunity to establish itself as an outstanding, distinctive centre for Life Sciences research and education’.

A source in the College who does not want to be named, told Redbrick: ‘It doesn’t feel very exciting to me.’

‘The College’s actions have had a profound effect across all teaching staff in the College, not just those affected by the [proposed staff reductions].’

The source, who may lose their job under the proposals, voiced concern that the changes will leave remaining staff with ‘considerably more work’ and that they would ‘be unable to do their job to the same quality’.

‘I’m shocked by the College’s actions, particularly regarding their lack of concern for maintaining teaching quality.’

Joe Armer, Vice President (Education) at the Guild of Students has expressed consternation over what he feels to be a lack of transparency from the University. He says that the impact on research students remains ‘unclear’.

"changes will leave remaining staff with considerably more work" Professor David Adams, Pro Vice Chancellor, Head of College and Dean of Medicine, said in a statement: ‘In our communications to all staff, students and stakeholders about the proposals to date, we have

tried to clearly express that there are no major changes proposed that will affect the content, level or quality of what is being taught but there continues to be some confusion over our proposals.’

‘There is no intention to stop teaching in the subject areas of neuroscience/pharmacology,’ he continued, adding: ‘teaching standards will remain of the highest quality and any changes should not affect your studies or student experience.’

The College admits that: ‘Changes to staff delivering teaching may occur’.

However, management seeks to reassure students that ‘maintaining the highest standards of teaching is our priority.’

The College maintain that ‘this proposal

"maintaining the highest standards of teaching is our priority" does not represent a “Major Change” to students’ and is therefore not subject to the same levels of student consultation as it otherwise would be. After lobbying from the Guild, a consultation meeting with students was held on 29 April. In addition, comments and questions from MDS students have been welcomed via email.

Adams adds: ‘We will continue to offer the current modules in neuroscience/pharmacology and relevant research projects will still be available.’

The staff consultation period is set to end on 15th May. A further series of student consultations will continue after this date.

MDS gave Redbrick these replies: Q: How many will be made redundant and from which schools?

A: Changes to staff delivering teaching may occur, as it may throughout any standard teaching year, but teaching will continue to be delivered by highly qualified academic staff. Any changes as a result of the proposals will not be decided until after the end of the consultation period with staff on 16th May 2015 and implemented in the months ahead.

Q: Will there be a reduced number of places (undergraduate or postgraduate) on courses affected, and which courses will these be?

A: There is no intention to stop teaching in the subject areas of neuroscience/pharmacology, teaching standards will remain of the highest quality and any changes should not adversely affect your studies or student experience.

We will continue to offer the current modules in neuroscience/pharmacology and relevant research projects will still be available.

Q: What other practical changes are being proposed?

A: The MDS Neuroscience/ Pharmacology proposals will not represent any practical changes that will affect students. Maintaining the highest standards of teaching is our priority and every effort will be made to ensure the student experience is not adversely affected.

Student jailed for hacking University Vale burglar sentenced to four computers to boost grades years in jail Sabrina Dougall News Editor

@Sabrina_Dougall

Imran Uddin, 25, has been sentenced to four months in prison for stealing staff passwords to change his degree classification.

Uddin, of Chesterton Road, Balsall Heath, was in his final year of a biosciences course at the University of Birmingham.

He was sentenced at Birmingham Crown Court yesterday after pleading guilty to six offences under the Computer Misuse Act. The court heard that Uddin fitted a 'shadowing' device to the back of several key-

"undermine public confidence in the degree system" boards of University computers in order to track keystrokes of users. He was then able to obtain staff passwords and used these to boost five of his coursework grades. One of these was changed from 57 to 73, two classification grades higher than the original mark given.

The student altered his marks to mean his final degree would have been improved from his expected 2:2 overall classification.

Judge James Burbidge QC said the student's actions were 'planned and persistent' and have 'the potential to undermine public confidence in the degree system set up by [Birmingham] University'.

The keyboard spying was discovered during the replacement of a computer in a lecture theatre in the Biosciences building on 7 October. University staff discovered the device hidden in the cover of the hardware.

This prompted further checks, uncovering a further three bugged keyboards.

The court also heard that a computer in a staff-only area was fitted with spyware in order to access an account which contains exam grade databases.

Balbir Singh, on the defence, said that Uddin had been under significant stress during the time the offences were committed.

A spokesperson from the University said: 'The University cannot comment on individual cases, however, we take any criminal activity extremely seriously and work closely with West Midlands Police.

'In additional to any legal sanctions, students convicted of serious crimes face a student misconduct investigation and ultimately face permanent exclusion.'

Biosciences building

Sabrina Dougall News Editor

@Sabrina_Dougall

A man has been jailed for four years for repeated burglaries of the University and student accommodation.

Ricky Woolaston, 35, from Erdington, would disguise himself as a member of maintenance staff to gain access to students' homes. Wearing clothing with the University of Birmingham logo, Woolaston knocked on the doors of student accommodation and was let in. He would then steal electronic equipment such as mobile phones and laptops.

The offences were committed in January this year.

Woolaston, who is unemployed, pleaded guilty to five counts of burglary: one at the University of Birmingham and four at students' residences, including Tennis Court student halls. Birmingham Crown Court sentenced him to four years in prison.

Dc Jon Green from Birmingham’s acquisitive crime team, said: 'Woolaston targeted students at Birmingham University in order to feed his drug habit. He wore a Birmingham University top and pretended to be a maintenance engineer in order to enter the student flats and steal electrical goods.'

The thief was caught after breaking into the Biosciences department of the University on 29 January. Although he stole nothing, his bag was left behind, which had inside it a police charge sheet with Woolaston's name on it. 'Unfortunately for him, Woolaston managed to leave vital evidence behind at

one of the break-ins, and we are grateful to vigilant students who were able to identify him for further burglaries,' said Green.

'Woolaston was charged with a total of five offences, and asked for a further five burglaries to be taken into consideration. We are happy with his sentence,' he added.

The campus police office is open between 1-3pm on Wednesdays in the University Centre for students to discuss any safety concerns with PC Andy Smith.

04 1st May - 19th June 2015

redbrick.me/news

News UoB alumna elected NUS Vice President Higher Education Sabrina Dougall News Editor

@Sabrina_Dougall

Sorana Vieru, a University of Birmingham alumna, has been elected to the position at the National Union of Students (NUS) National Conference today.

Sorana Vieru, a UoB graduate, has won the role of Vice President of Higher Education at the NUS. Having completed her undergraduate studies, Sorana is currently the Full-Time Postgraduate Education Officer at Bristol University.

Vieru contested the election against Guild of Students President, Poppy Wilkinson, and Former Guild of Students Vice President (Education), Hattie Craig.

563 votes were cast and candidates needed 282 to be elected. Vieru received 289 votes, whilst Wilkinson, Craig and Re-Open Nominations received 167, 98 and 9 respectively.

The election took place on day 2 of

the Conference in Liverpool. The Vice President of HE is instrumental in deciding what campaigns the NUS will lead on behalf of students in HE. In her election speech, Sorana condemned tuition fees as well as a lack of inclusivity in the NUS. She also criticised the ethnic makeup of UK universities.

'Our teachers look nothing like our students. I will lead a campaign that reimagines what HE is.' She explained that travelling to the UK from Romania at the age of 18 allows her to sympathise with students facing sexism and xenophobia.

'Higher Education looks like it always has - a place for the privileged.' Sorana said.

The incumbent of this position is Megan Dunn, who was elected as the NUS President earlier today.

Despite missing out on the role, Craig is in high spirits. 'Even though I came third in the election, [Sorana] is a really good candidate,' she told Redbrick. Hattie

will be travelling in South America for a year and plans to get involved in advocating for trade unions in the future.

Poppy Wilkinson said on Twitter that she was proud to stand as a Labour student and thanked everyone who worked on her campaign. Congratulating her cocandidates, Wilkinson said: 'I was proud to share the stage with two other women.'

She is understood to have a law-related work placement lined up for her future.

Two students - Erin Lee and Izzy Lenga - from the University of Birmingham are also taking part in the Block of 15 elections tomorrow. This election is for the fifteen representatives who make up the National Executive Council (NEC), a central decision-making group in the NUS. Positions on the council include five reserved places for Further Education students, and half of the NEC must self-define as a woman.

The results of this are likely to be announced within this week.

Carnival RAG and Nepalese Society to raise funds for Nepal Earthquake Isma Azad News Editor

@ismaazad

UoB Nepalese society and Carnival RAG are planning on raising funds here on campus for the recent earthquake that has affected Nepal.

At the time of printing, the death toll has been put at 5,800 people, with around 6,500 injured people. The 7.8 magnitude earthquake has mostly affected the areas of Lamjung, in the North West regions of Nepal. However, the after-effects of the earthquake have been felt across the entire country. The Nepalese Society here at Birmingham, are hoping to raise money online at GofundMe. So far £642 has been raised.

Raket Makhim, the chair of the Nepalese Society told Redbrick, ‘we are primarily aiming to help the affected people on basic supplies like food and shelter. Apart from that we are also thinking of donating some of the funds to operation Nepal child char-

ity whom we have helped before; their home was one of the many that were destroyed by the Nepal quake. We aim to raise a minimum of £1,000 as soon as possible and hopefully to exceed it.’

In addition to the online funds, a bake sale is being held outside of Spar, in the Guild, on Friday, 1st May, from 12pm-2pm.

The Nepalese society has said that they are hoping to conduct funding straight away, but are aware of the current pressures of exam season. Makhim stated, ‘We are also in the process of collaborating with other Nepalese societies around England to support the rebuilding of Nepal’s historical monuments. We are planning for this to happen after the exams as the safety of the people is the main priority.’

All the money raised by the Nepalese society will be donated to Oxfam UK. Oxfam say they ‘will be sending a team of technical experts to Nepal with basic supplies to help affected people’.

Additionally, Carnival RAG are also

planning on raising funds for the Nepalese Earthquake. The funds raised by Carnival RAG will be given to the DEC (Disasters Emergency Committee), who are supporting aid relief response teams in and around the country's capital Kathmandu and sur-

"survivors are in need of food, water and shelter" rounding rural areas.

The DEC chief executive, Saleh Saeed has said, 'survivors are in need of medical help, food, water and shelter.’ The executive added that, ‘in many cases [those affected by the Earthquake] lost everything and our members are ready to help them not just survive but to rebuild their lives.’

Carnival RAG are planning on bucket shaking around campus. Those interested in volunteering should join the ‘Team Carnival 2014/15’ Facebook group and contact Liv Rafferty for more information.

Circles of Influence campaign comes to a close Safiyyah Gareeboo Deputy Editor

The University’s Circles of Influence entered its final 100 days on 23rd April, marking the end of what has been the most successful Higher Education campaign outside Oxbridge and London.

The campaign has been funding the Access to Birmingham (A2B) scholarship scheme, medical research, numerous student groups and major campus developments.

'Birmingham was England’s first civic university, where students from all backgrounds were accepted on an equal basis.' The support from donors helps to keep this 'vision strong'.

Over the past six years, there has been over 10,000 donors and 5,000 volunteers who have helped to exceed the £160 million target. This looks like it is set to continue to increase in the final few months. £5.5 million of medical research has supported life-saving trials in Africa and lead research into the prevention and treatments of cancer and infectious diseases.

On campus, students have already benefitted from the construction of the Bramall Music Building. In addition, students and staff are now looking forward to the opening of the New campus Library and the new Sports Centre.

The clocktower, Old Joe, was also built with support from philanthropists and donors.

To find out more about what Circles of Influence has done for the University, visit www.uobpartofit.com or join in the conversation on twitter with #UoBpartofit

Partner of alumnus suicide victim walks 130 miles for LGBTQ Danyal Hussain News Editor

The partner of Dr Nazim Mahmood, the doctor who committed suicide after revealing his sexuality to his disapproving mother, has completed the 130 mile walk from London to Birmingham to raise money for his charity.

Matthew Ogston, who completed the walk, has founded The Matt and Naz Foundation, which aims to bridge the gap between religious families and their LGBT children. His partner, Dr Mahmood, jumped from the balcony of his apartment on July 30th last year, after his mother told him to ‘cure’ himself of his homosexuality. Dr Mahmood was a former University of Birmingham graduate.

Mr Ogston began the walk from Hampstead cemetery in London, before walking 150 miles over a period of eight days. The walk ended on Saturday 25th

April, at Handsworth Cemetery, Birmingham. This is the site of Dr Mahmood’s resting place, and Handsworth is the area in which they once lived.

The walk was dubbed ‘The Journey to Find Acceptance’ and has raised in excess of £4000, a sum that is more than 150% higher than the original £2500 target. On the official Facebook page, Mr Ogston spoke of how he wanted the walk to ‘carry a message of love and acceptance along the way’.

The Naz and Matt Foundation, set up

by Mr Ogston after his partner’s passing, aims to ‘raise awareness of homophobia in religion’. The charity’ mission statement is to encourage others to ‘be the person that you were born to be’ regardless of sexual orientation. They aim to give free support for ‘LGBTQI individuals and their family to help resolve challenges linked to sexuality or gender identity and their religion’.

Speaking exclusively to Redbrick, Mr

Ogston spoke of his joy that the Muslim Association of Britain had announced their support for the charity. The Association stated that ‘In the spirit of Islamic doctrine of free will, a core prin-

"young people are especially affected" ciple at the heart of AoBM is that people should be allowed to fashion their lives freely’.

Mr Ogston stressed that it was just a ‘small step’ and that more needs to be done to raise awareness of the issues at hand. Mr Ogston also spoke of how thousands of young people are especially affected, since they are ‘trapped’ in a society, with no one to help them.

He went on to say that young people rely on their parents and families for support, yet because of religious homophobia

and societal attitudes, they are left alone and vulnerable. Finally, he stressed that the homophobia issues affecting young people are evident across ‘many religions’ and that we ‘need to work together’ to ensure more lives aren’t lost.

redbrick.me/news

1st May - 19th June 2015

05

Redbrick investigates: is your housing up to scratch?

The results of our campus-wide student survey are in. Redbrick launched the 2015 Housing Survey to find out how students have been living this year. 115 people responded to our questionnaire between 3 March to 4 April. Students who took part live predominantly in Selly Oak - 93% in fact. The vast majority of these rented with a letting agent.

27 different agents are represented in our survey (not including parents or unnamed private landlords).

Our findings show that not having a reliable supply of hot water was the most common problem which students faced this year. In addition, almost a quarter of students (23%) found themselves in the dark when their electricity cut out unexpectedly. Leaking showers, blocked drains and malfunctioning locks were also named as recurrent issues.

Three respondents even said that they had discovered faults with their fire alarm.

More revealing was that 41% of students said their landlord had let prospective tenants in for a viewing without giving twenty-four hours’ advanced warning, despite the legal requirement to do so.

When asked ‘How satisfied are you with the speed at which your landlord gets back to you regarding a maintenance issue?’, responses were divided.

One in five said they were ‘dissatisfied’, although this was matched by those who said they were ‘content’ or ‘satisfied’.

Those who indicated they were less than content came to 37%.

Nevertheless, 60% of respondents said they would rent with their current landlord again. That leaves two fifths who will be looking to pastures new as they consider living arrangements for the next academic year. 51% said they are 'unlikely' or 'very unlikely' to recommend their current landlord.

Our results come a year after the National Union of Students (NUS) released their 'Homes Fit For Study' report which found that 53% of students had experienced delays in getting repairs carried out on their home.

Graphic by Andrew Spencer

Students’ sensitive data at risk after hacktivists breach Guild IT security Jack Lockyer-Stevens BurnFM News

Katie Packer BurnFM News

@Katierpacker

A group of students, acting under the pseudonym ‘Guild of Pirates’, claim to have gained access to sensitive data this week within the Guild of Students’ computer systems.

To substantiate their claims, the group released a copy of this year’s Gradball ticket through their Twitter account @ GuildofPirates, taunting: ‘We've got our Gradball ticket, have you?’ On Monday, April 27th, the group released another tweet under the hashtag #SecureTheGuild, purporting to have gained control over the Guild’s email server. This enabled them to send their open letter to all staff within the organisation seemingly from the CEO’s account.

The letter, available in full at guildofpirates.co.uk, alleges that ‘YOUR Guild of Students is failing you’ as it, ‘fails to protect its sensitive data and services.’

Their website, outlining the group's motives and intentions, explains that the Guild’s IT infrastructure is relatively open to infiltration and accessible to anybody with a laptop, due to the widespread use of simple default passwords and ‘just plain negligence’.

In addition, they have issued an ultima-

"further information every few days" tum warning that they will release the line up of this year’s Gradball should enough people follow their Twitter account before the Guild has taken sufficient action.

The group’s reasoning for conducting this activity follows a proposed motion, GC.2.15.8i, submitted to Guild Council in February. The motion states that the Vice President of Democracy, Resources and Sustainability, Bethan Dovey, is to report back to the Guild’s democratic body with an outline of the organisation’s data backup and network security policies. The need for this review is explained by the fact that the Guild holds numerous per-

sonal details of student staff and society members such as addresses, bank details, national insurance numbers and telephone numbers.

Branding Guild Council as ‘needlessly bureaucratic and tedious,’ the hackers maintain that they have no intention of reading the files or emails of any account on the Guild’s network and that their primary motive is to encourage the Guild to bolster its security.

Katie, a first year English and History student, said that the group ‘Don’t seem particularly malicious.’ However, she is ‘still concerned’ that her personal information could be accessed so easily, ‘It doesn’t fill me with much confidence that my personal details can be out in the open

"they will release the lineup of Gradball" like that.’ Niall, a second year English Literature student, wonders ‘what a larger, more malicious organisation of hackers could do if it was so easy for a small group of students.’

The Guild had not been able to provide Redbrick with a comment by the time of going to print. Meanwhile, the hacktivists, claiming to be a group of ‘concerned students’, are expected to release further information every few days until the Guild secures its systems.

06 1st May - 19th June 2015

redbrick.me/ge2015

General Election 2015

Your top issues revealed

Green Party

Conservative Party

0

1Health/NHS Green Party

Fight for a publicly funded, publicly provided health service free at the point of use Increase health spending by £12bn a year End privatisation of the NHS and restrict the role of commercial companies

2 Education

Liberal Democrats

Green Party

5 Welfare Labour

Extend free childcare from 15 to 25 hours for working parents of 3 to 4 year olds

20 hours of free childcare a week for parents of children aged from 2-4, and for working parents between the end of maternity leave to 2 years

Reverse the 50p tax cut for the top 1%

Reject an open borders approach and arbitrary cap on net migration

Ensure primary schools guarantee wraparound childcare from 8am to 6pm

Abolish income requirement for non-EU partners to move to the UK

Double paternity leave and increase paternity pay

Extend free school meals to all children in primary education

7 Europe Labour

Return Britain to a leadershop role in Europe, but reform the EU

Not increase the rate of Income Tax, National Insurance or VAT Cut and then freeze business rates Abolish non dom status Increase minimum wage to £8 by October 2019

8 Crime

Green Party Criminals would make amends to the victim and community

Bring in new energy efficiency standards for homes, and act on fuel poverty

No powers transferred to Brussels without an in/out referendum

End the disproportionate use of stop and search on ethnic communities

Establish a 'Stern Report' on resource use with binding targets

Focus on completion of the single market and tougher budget discipline

Treat drug addiction as a health problem

Introduce a decarbonisation target for electricity sector

Not join the Euro and ensure EU rules protect the interests of non-Euro members

Establish a full network of electric car charging points and incentivise green travel

4 Immigration Reduce the pressures that lead to involuntary migration such as war

Extend free prescriptions, dentistry and chiropody to everyone

Introduce legal targets for biodiversity, clean air and water

Labour

Cut the deficit every year and balance the books as soon as possible

Make mental health a higher priority

Liberal Democrats

3 Economy

Invest every penny they can in education from cradle to college

Introduce a Parent Guarantee that all teachers in state funded schools will be qualified or working towards it

6 Environment

Foreign Policy/ Defence

30

UKIP

Democracy

60

Labour Party

Liberal Democrats

Immigration

Economy

90

Education

120

Health/NHS

150

with just 37% of participants choosing the issue.

The Labour Party, the Green Party and the Liberal Democrats each took three policies, whilst the Conservative Party took just one.

UKIP failed to be the most popular for any issue, although they did poll third for education, immigration and foreign policy/defence.

The General Election is just 6 days away (on the date of print) and, hopefully, for the people who took part in this survey, the results will help you choose how to vote.

If you haven't taken part yet, and want to know whose policies you support, you can still take the survey online at www.voteforpolicies. org.uk/survey/redbrick.

Crime

Last month, Redbrick was kindly given its own Vote for Policies link, allowing students to find out which party they support based on their policies. The website aims to help advise people on how to vote based on a party's policies rather than the charisma of the leader, or who can perform best in a debate, for example. With the General Election less than a week away, we're now going to release the results from this survey.

183 people took part in our policy survey, with respondents for each policy area offered. The

Europe

@JMPhillips92

Environment

Editor

largest proportion of support was awarded to the Labour Party, with the Green Party coming in second.

In third place, with 22.1%, came the Liberal Democrats, in contrast to national opinion polls. Perhaps one of the most surprising results, however, was that the Conservative Party placed 5th, after UKIP, albeit with just a 0.7% gap.

The most popular issue for students (as seen in our graph below) was health and the NHS, with over 75% of participants choosing to explore that issue's policies. In second and third respectively, education and economy were the topics of concern.

The least important topic for students was foreign policy/defence,

Welfare

James Phillips

Secure reforms to immigration and social security rules

Improve the design of cities to increase safety Focus on crime prevention measures, such as local democratic control of community policing

Remove restrictions on foreign students Ensure that no prospective immigrant is held in detention

9 Democracy

Liberal Democrats Reform the House of Lords with a democratic mandate Cap party donations at £10,000 and reform party political funding Introduce Single Transferable Vote for elections

Guarantee three-year tenancies with a rent rise ceiling Introduce a compulsory jobs guarantee Abolish the bedroom tax

Policy/ Defence 10Foreign

Conservative Use diplomacy to protect British interests and uphold British values Generate new trade, investment and job opportunities, for you and your family

Reduce voting age to 16

Maintain world class Armed Forces

Devolve Welsh local government elections to Welsh Assembly

Uphold commitment to spend 0.7% of gross national income on international development

Devolution of power to local authorities

Retain the Trident continuous at sea nuclear deterrent

redbrick.me/ge2015

1st May - 19th June 2015

07

‘Toxic rhetoric’ on immigration criticised at BBC General Election debate Sabrina Dougall News Editor

@Sabrina_Dougall

The University played host to a BBC Asian Network General Election panel debate. Sabrina Dougall was behind the scenes during filming.

Immigration, British values and the Trojan Horse investigation were the main touchstones of discussion at tonight's BBC Asian Network Election Debate.

Five panel guests fielded questions on topics such as the representation of Islam and the ethnic diversity of their own parties. The Asian MPs answering questions were: Tariq Mahmood (UKIP), Shahrar Ali (Green), Shabana Mahmood (Labour), Priti Patel (Conservative) and Zuffar Haq (Lib Dem).

Around 80 audience members had been selected to take part in the debate, the majority of whom were from an Asian background. Hosted by Nihal Arthanayake, the audience in the Bramall Music Building were invited to raise spontaneous points as well as ask pre-selected questions.

On the topic of immigration, Tariq Mahmood said that ethnic minorities 'contribute significantly' to the UK economy, although he emphasized a need for skillsbased border control. All candidates noted that they would not be here if it had not been for recent generations of their family moving to the UK from abroad. Ali criticised 'toxic rhetoric' on this issue. Shabana Mahmood said that economic migrants are treated as 'slave labour' in this country.

In light of discussion surrounding 'scapegoating' of ethnic minorities, Ali condemned the 'higher standard' which Muslims are being asked to meet owing to fears surrounding Islamic extremism. For his part, Haq warned against the dangers of the government identifying particular communities and 'tar[ring] thousands of people with the same brush'. Shabana Mahmood called for government to define what is meant by 'British values' as she sees 'no difference' between these and the core values of Islam. Patel felt that MPs should be advocating 'shared values' rather than seeking to represent particular religions or cultures. Tariq Mahmood said there was a need to 'reconsider foreign policy' owing to 'the rise of ISIS'.

As the debate turned to the Trojan Horse 'hoax', Nihal asked whether the Conservatives needed to apologise for the ways in which Cabinet ministers contributed to 'media hysteria'. Patel replied that nothing could change the past and that the way forward is to 'build bridges' with the schools in Birmingham concerned.

Questions from the audience centred around the need for more MPs from ethnic minorities, with the panel guests in turn urging Asian audience members to consider joining political parties. Speaking personally, Haq spoke of his decision to represent his home constituency, rejecting his party's recommendation that he run for MP in a place where he had 'a better chance' of being elected. Tariq Mahmood noted that their party has more ethnic minority MP candidates than the Green party. Ali admitted he was 'ashamed' at the lack of ethnic diversity within his party, but added that a Black and Ethnic Minority manifesto is being launched in West Yorkshire under the party for the first time.

This debate follows a BBC Newsbeat young voter forum hosted on campus last Tuesday (21st).

The full programme was broadcast on the BBC Asian Network radio channel on Sunday 26 April at 10am, and at 8.30pm on the BBC News channel.

(From left) Tariq Mahmood (UKIP), Shahrar Ali (Green), Shabana Mahmood (Labour), Priti Patel (Conservative) and Zuffar Haq (Lib Dem). Photo: Sabrina Dougall

08

redbrick.me/comment

1st May - 19th June 2015

Comment

"Smile": An Open Letter to Sexism Olivia Beesley Commentator

You may think I'm petty, picky or believe I am unjustifiably ranting when you realise what I am writing about, but while this issue seems minuscule in the grand scheme of life, it's roots are deeper than what we see. It's so cemented in our subconscious that I even questioned if I was being ridiculous and why I wanted to write about it. But I did, and I'm glad I did.

Today a man told me to 'smile'. While some of you may sarcastically be thinking 'call the police!', the intention and foundation behind this exchange annoyed me more than I anticipated. In the past twenty-four hours I had been cat called 3 times – something that many women have to endure. While a stranger asking me to ‘take off their clothes’ or calling me beautiful had irritated me, what appears to be the mildest comment, 'smile' had angered me the most. But

"I realised they weren't ordering me to smile for my benefit, they wanted me to smile for their benefit" why?

I felt irrational for becoming so riled, but then I realised they weren't ordering me to smile for my benefit, they wanted

me to smile for their benefit. Girls are trained from a young age by family, friends and the media that they must look contented, satisfied, happy, and most importantly, be polite. We are molded into what has been called 'manic pixie girls' who are overly happy 24/7, perpetually pleased with others and never low. This state of the feminine is easiest for the patriarchal society to deal with, and most appealing to men. After all, who wants to date a sour-faced girl?

Showing emotion beyond happiness isn't attractive on a young lady. However males are allowed to display anger; this just makes them more masculine. These are the cages we have locked both sexes in for years, so ingrained in our subconscious that we no longer realise that we are trapped in them.

As a woman, I am a human. I am not always naturally content, I am organic and my moods change depending on my situation and context. This is something I wish that women had more freedom to embrace in society. We should be allowed to be deep in thought, angry or even apathetic without having to cover it up with a mask of sunshine. Why should I be stripped of the right to be myself and be told to smile when I don't feel like it?

While I am generally a happy person, from time to time I won't be ecstatic.

This is natural, and a positive thing - it allows me to see that my emotions are real and realise the severity of situations when I am sad. I embrace it, yet don't revel in it. The ‘smile’ man didn't know me, in fact, I barely saw his face. While I am lucky that I wasn't actually upset at

the time, this may not have been the case for other women. We never know the struggles that strangers are going through, whether they are grinning or not grinning. Therefore, we should never assume 'things can't be that bad' by tell-

"To the stranger who annoyed me today, your demand, ironically, had the opposite effect of making me smile. Next time, try a joke." ing someone to smile.

Even when I do smile out of happiness in the street, sometimes I regret it as it attracts unwanted attention and conversations I would rather avoid.

Some (not all) men see a smile as a woman being accepting and ‘on demand’ for them. However, I refuse to stop smiling just because of this assumption.

Equally, I refuse to stop frowning. I would rather be myself and live authentically than suppress my emotions inside a vacant looking girl. We need to let people embrace their emotions fully and never believe that we have the right to order them what to do with their own body.

To the stranger who annoyed me today, your demand, ironically, had the opposite effect of making me smile.

Next time, try a joke.

Is social media taking over our lives?

Katy Holdcroft

selves to others and ultimately over-evaluate our lives.

What worries me most is the impact that this is having on the younger generation. It would seem that in today’s society greater online popularity supposedly makes you superior. Children are growing up in a self-obsessed world where if you do not live up to a certain expectation, you are deemed inadequate. Therefore, altering how they view themselves; promoting unnecessary self-criticism, and having a profound effect on self-esteem. I have no idea how we’ve got to this point where we are so immersed in a virtual existence, craving attention from people we barely speak to. There are most certainly more important concerns in the world. This prob-

Commentator

It may sound dramatic but social media is literally taking over our lives. There is this persistent urge to facebook, tweet, snapchat and instagram our daily moves in an attempt to express our identity to the world and make ourselves feel valued.

Unfortunately this shows that, in today’s society, we have become obsessed with virtual reality.

All Facebook users have been there, the inevitable moment when we check our notifications and sigh in disappointment that we haven’t got enough likes on our profile picture; or frantically checked our Instagram notifications every two seconds in the hope we’ve received one more like on our latest photo update. Can a ‘like’ really represent popularity and how others perceive you?

"Unfortunately this shows that, in today's society we have become obsessed with virtual reality" One of the biggest problems is that social media has become so easily accessible. We are surrounded by technology on a daily basis allowing us to inform everyone of our current activities through the touch of a button, further deepening our obsession. We are glued to our screens 24/7 and cannot bear to tear ourselves away from our precious phones.

It dawned on me how addicted we had become when I was out for dinner with my parents. I looked across the restaurant

So next time you reach for your phone on a social occassion"ask yourself: 'Is it really worth it?'" to see a family get together made up of mostly teenagers and younger children.

For the entirety of this social gathering, they were completely hooked to their phones, besotted with what was happening online, consequently ignoring the perfectly acceptable plate of food in front of them (Because who’d favour a touch screen object over food? I certainly wouldn’t!)

Can we no longer enjoy family time without technology or social media being involved?

It seems so odd that taking a selfie and

desperately analysing which filter makes us look most attractive is more important than actually spending time with others.

Social activities really are becoming less and less ‘social’ by the minute. Social media merely gives us the opportunity to portray the reality we wish others to see.

It’s time we stop spending so much time trying to make our lives look perfect and start focusing on living in the moment.

Being continuously bombarded with everyone else’s life updates only causes us to get jealous and excessively compare our-

lem is only set to get worse as online activities become increasingly popular, unless we educate the young people of today.

I agree, social media can be a positive medium, especially as a way of connecting and sharing with family and friends.

However, when it begins to rule our lives and daily activities, that’s going one step too far. It’s sad to think that this is what the world has come to. So, next time you reach for your phone on a social occasion, ask yourself: “Is it really worth it? Missing this moment, now?”

redbrick.me/comment

1st May - 19th June 2015

09

A European Civil War Francesco Finucci Commentator

As Europe enters the fourth year since the debt crisis erupted, the number of social gaps disrupting interpersonal, social and political bonds in the continent seem to be growing faster than expected. The tensions between Christians and Muslims all around Europe could be the evident symptoms of a wider and deeper illness. The sign of of our shared social cohesion disappearing.

When the Second World War erupted, a large amount of the European social fabric had been eroded by the worst financial crisis faced so far. Most notably, the international relations system had been undermined by the punitive nature of the Treaty of Versailles, fundamental in the development of the German political life, and the deteriorating effect the financial crisis had on it. Once the Nazi party rose to power, an entire system built to prevent conflicts fell apart, leading to the eruption of the Second World War. Similarly, we expected the 2007-2008 financial crisis to affect the Western European military stability to a degree unknown since 1945. While from the military point of view nothing happened, many events shook the Union, while the rest of the world was being set aflame by the Arab Spring and the Crimean Crisis. In Europe, events moved through a different process, a more deceitful and creeping war was crumbling the relations among countries and within them.

"Britain is scares to face the real issue - it's all about inequality."

When the debt crisis peaked in 2011, reaching its highest – and most paradoxical – point, European countries realised the evidence of facts: nobody trusted anybody. In my home country, Italy, the might of market and debt economy succeeded in what twenty years of political opposition had failed: dismissing Silvio Berlusconi from his position of Prime Minister. A new Prime Minister was chosen among internationally respected figures, thus ensuring the benevolence of the market. This benevolence never wavered, despite the chosen PM, Mario Monti, had never been elected. After he left in 2013, Enrico Letta followed, ensuring the political balance that had built into a coalition the main left-wing and right-wing parties; his successor, Matteo Renzi, even stepped in after winning the primary vote in the same party, so deciding it was the moment for him to prove his skills as Prime Minister.

Elected? Not really. Three PMs followed one another, none of them being elected, all of them approved by the ubiquitous presence of the free-market.

In Greece, the backlash was even worse. The suicide rate rose dramatically, both in 2008, when the financial crisis began, and in 2011 when the sovereign debt crisis hit Europe. In regards to Tsipras' January victory, as Southern Europeans we can't help being moved by a sentiment of suspicion and hope: suspicion that his promises could be empty, hope they could change Europe once and for all. After all, in Varoufakis' words, the promise doesn't concern the concession of benefits, but a large investment plan for Europe as a whole. The fear such ideas must face up to is testified by the way he was humiliated by the major financial newspapers, as grotesquely proved by The Economist. Other coun-

tries reacted, but their impact on the European political debate was somehow weaker. Despite being a fundamental issue, the effectiveness of Tsipras' policies is to be evaluated by the community of economics' scholars, so let's set it aside for a moment.

The main issue with the Union today is inherently political in nature. Financial data indicates a regressive process that is eroding the network of social relations both inside and among European countries. Italy's current situation may say a lot about this process. The sentiment of xenophobia leftover from the 1980s progressively worked its way through Albanian, then Romanian, and now Islamic, gypsy and northern African people. In 2008, Gianni Alemanno was elected mayor in Rome by exploiting the fear of Romanians committing sexual violence, as according to the newspapers the city was experiencing an anomalous peak in such crimes. In facts, the number of cases was lower than in 2007, but Alemanno reached his goal. After the crisis long the Syrian-Iraqi border exploded, fears slowly grew in psychosis, channelled by Matteo Salvini through his new version of the far-right party Lega Nord (Northern League). Once he abandoned LN's former secessionist policy, it was disturbingly easy for him to move toward nationalism, so looking for a new enemy: immigrants passing through the Mediterranean Sea, and especially the Muslim ones. Most notably, the sudden interest for the IS presence in Libya stirred up by the seizure of Sirte led to a panic crisis: many journalists asked for an Italian military intervention, an hypothesis later reiterated by the PM Matteo Renzi.

Italian journalists moved in the same semantic field when reacting face to the Paris attacks, namely promoting the idea of Europe being at war, and blaming dogooders for being unable to face this reality. But this was in no way an Italian prerogative. Some 60 physical attacks followed in France, while in the United Kingdom, some mosques received death threats. Not unexpectedly, Nigel Farage blamed multiculturalism, while Marine Le Pen promised a referendum on death penalty. It worth highlighting the UKIP represent about 13% of British voters, while the Front National's relevance in the French political system is harder to track, but obtained about the 25% of votes during the last local elections.

It is not an easy situation for either France and Britain. France discovered the frailty of giving a name to the enemy,

discovering he/she/they live nearby.

Discovering fundamentalism on the soil of the most radically lay state is both shocking and confusing. The United Kingdom, on the other hand, faces a totally different set of challenges.

Britain's obsessive myth doesn't concern the eradication of religion from the public discourse, but a religion of achieving.

Ian Johnson reported how in the UK malnutrition affects the poor, while Suzanne McGee proved how much privilege and the obtaining of a high-profile job are interrelated in the country, but still the focus seems to be elsewhere. Immigrants seem obsessed with the idea that Britain must be a safe haven, as they chose to live here, while British people focus on immigrants as the real problem, as they can't go somewhere else, and they arguably feel their opportunities are vanishing with time. In Will Hutton's words, “Britain is scared to face the real issue – it's all about inequality”. If the problems concerning France and the UK seem randomly chosen, you may be interested in knowing that British Muslims are the most discriminate minority group in the UK, when it comes to job applications.

In terms of the above mentioned disruption of social bonds in Europe, these cases highlight how relations among religious groups are being challenged, and also how the gap between haves and have nots is. But to look at the issue in its most appalling form, one needs nothing else than an investigation of the activity of major European newspapers on Facebook.

They are the main arena for the European public debate, and they proved despairing. Here, the most evident rifts affecting our shared polity is how users exploit articles concerning the talks between Germany and Greece, the Crimean Crisis, or European Muslims. Until 2011, European politics was a relatively depoliticised environment. Consequently, the major issue faced by European institutions concerned the politicisation of the EU and its affiliate organisms. As proved by the mentioned Facebook pages, the attempt failed spectacularly: far from

being equally important as national institutions in the public debate of EU countries, the Union became a focus for the hatred of a million people, who as a consequence started hating each other, exactly when they needed each other at the most.

For disturbing as these outrages to social cohesion may seem, there is an even grimmer face in the European choice not to care about others. With the rescue operation “Mare Nostrum” being concluded, its substitute led by the European agency Frontex – operation Triton – actually introduces itself as a decision to prioritize European wealth over the life of thousands of immigrants. The diminished number of men deployed and the lack of any authority in international waters simply are the signature over the death penalty for those trying to enter Europe through the Mediterranean Sea. This shows pretty effectively the nature of Europe in times of financial crisis and illegal immigration due to the failure of the Arab Spring. As extensively proved, places as Melilla, Calais, Lampedusa, the Italian-Austrian and the Bulgarian borders are doomed to become the fortified borders long which the wealthier requires a tribute from the poorer, often a tribute of blood. The Italian talk-show Piazzapulita vividly showed how desperately the coastguard operates to make the

"the imperative of saving lives always tries to win over every other consideration." law of sea prevail over the one of the land. How the imperative of saving lives always tries to win over every other consideration. Often failing.

This is the disheartening but realistic situation, paradoxical when considering for how long European countries progressed on the path of peace as the highest expression of humanity. The cleavages among European countries, the entrenchment of the EU face to immigration (most shamefully in the case of asylum seekers), the growing mistrust and hatred between Christians and Muslims are the mayday warning that something terrible is taking place in Europe. Even interpersonal bonds are at risk, especially in countries like Greece and Italy, where many families are challenged by a perspective of pure desperation.

Arguably, the only reasonable response to such a threat is acting to rebuild these bonds, and to build new ones. The answer is the one provided by a safeguard officer: “I'm speaking about children who are two, three years old, newborns that look at you only because they don't have their pacifier, their baby bottle. These are the things we must consider, the rest has not much substance, not really, no importance at all”. The lifesaver hiding his tears is an image of the core of the Copernican revolution needed: training to feel ashamed for those who do wrong, so eradicating the natural embarrassment we all share, face to our love for human beings. Especially those we're not supposed to care about.

Got an opinion?

Share it! comment@redbrick.me

10 1st May - 19th June 2015

redbrick.me/tech

Science & Technology Revision Special

Science Revision Help How could your revision be backed by science to help enhance your memory even further?

Amy Thompson Sci & Tech Editor

We all hate revision, and it can be a struggle to pull ourselves out of bed some mornings to face the dreaded textbooks.

But what if science could help make the whole process so much easier?

Scientists have learnt a great deal about the inner workings of the brain, in particular the mechanisms of the memory over the past degrades. We can use this knowledge to enable us to learn quicker and using better techniques.

Memory is a process that relies upon neurons within the brain. The brain needs to have neuroplasticity in order to form memory. Neuroplasticity is the brains'

what you have learnt is retained. This is due to over-exciting your hippocampus, which then means it is unable to fully complete all the biochemical reactions needed for a fact to be stored in the memory.

So how can you avoid this from happening? Here are some tips from the world of science to help you make the best of your revision time.

Try not to use letters to remember whole words. Anagrams and mnemonics

the main concept being the trunk, which if learned repetitively can be stored for longer in the memory, as by repeating your learning then this allows the signals between synapses to be strengthened allowing better retrieval. The small details related to a concept or theory are the branches and the leaves, these will only be retrieved if the initial concept that they rely upon is thoroughly memorised, since the brain works by connecting patterns together.

"after 15 to 30 minutes our brains can no longer store new patterns"

"it is best to start revision 3 to 4 weeks before your exam" ability to be able to reorganise itself and change its shape over time in order to hold new knowledge. The neurons that make up the brain transmit signals throughout our body allowing movement, sensation and recollection to occur. The neurons that are involved in memory can be found in the hippocampus. For these neurons to store memories they must be triggered to fire multiple times in the same pattern in order for a fact to become permanently stored within the brain.

However if you try to cram lots of facts at once, which I am sure we have all tried at least once during a late night study session, then you will surely have found that the next morning only some of

later recalling it, then trying to recall it a few hours later and then a few days. The recalling of facts and information over larger time spaces enables exceptional storage of complex theories. However this technique only works for things revised over a couple of weeks, as this process of spaced repetition begins to reverse over time, so it is best to start revision 3 to 4 weeks before your exam but no more than month early as the facts you have learnt will not be able to be retrieved from your hippocampus as easily.

Gnarlycraig

can help you to recall the order of a set words, but not the words themselves.

This is due to your hippocampus tendency to remember patterns, more than it will retain individual facts or words.

For any key concepts it is best to revise them multiple times, while the little details need less revision. It is important to learn in this way as the brains memory system works like a tree. With

Likewise by practising retrieving a memory you can strengthen the neurons involved in the memory, so lots and lots of practice questions is imperative to consolidating memory patterns within the brain.

Science also can help us to find the best times to revise, the process involved is called spaced repetition. This comprises learning a fact, then a few seconds

We all wish that our memory could store facts from our hours and hours of revision, however after 15 to 30 minutes our brains can no longer store the new patterns created by neurons firing. That is why breaks are so vital! But remember not make your breaks too long as this can cause the hippocampus to disengage leading to the patterns of neuron firing to not be stored as clearly and precisely as desired.

Finally, gets lots of sleep! The hippocampus consolidates memories when we sleep, the short term memories created that day become long term memories, therefore enabling us to retrieve them the next day. These memories are passed from the hippocampus to the neo-cortex, where all our long term memories are stored. Also the pathways in our brain that have been strengthened by repetition become more prominent within the cortex, explaining why we find it easier to recall facts that we have studied lots.

Top 5 Revision Mini-Break Websites Sci and Tech's new Online Editor and long time Redbrick writer discovers four relaxing websites to take a 5 minute break off and the one app that will make sure you get back to work.

Ellie Patten

Sci & Tech Online Editor

A lovely site for any creative types out 1 there, Silk (http://weavesilk.com/) lets you create beautiful patterns using a brush

thing’s getting on top of you. It plays calming music, while you can type any thoughts, feelings problems, ideas, anything you want, and you watch them all fade away in front of your very eyes.

interactive and creative site, 4createAnother Sand (http://thisissand.com/) lets you landscapes with multi-coloured sand.

Some people find the sound of the falling sand calming, while the sand creates strange

And if your problem is that you can’t 5that too! stop taking a break, there’s an app for Forest: Stay Focused, Be Present, which you can find on the Apple Store for 79p, is an app designed to prevent you from using your phone, with the aim of increasing your productivity. It’s perfect for anyone

which draws with wisps of silk. It’s a great distraction for a few minutes when you’re hoping for something a little more creative than revising. You can even change the colours or symmetries to create the pattern you want.

"the app is designed to prevent you from using your phone, with the aim of increasing your productivity"

More into music than art? Tone Matrix 2 (http://tonematrix.audiotool.com/) might be the website for you. This website presents you with a grid of squares, from which you can choose which squares to click on and colour in. Each square represents a different note, and as you colour more in, they join together to create a tune.

You can even use the squares to write out words, and see what kind of tune plays! to remove all the stress in your 3t h e qNeed life? The Thoughts Room (http:// uietplaceproject.com/thethoughtsroom/) is a great website for if you’re feeling really stressed out, or like every-

landscapes and mountain ranges, all out of purple, green, orange or any-coloured sand.

Clarence Fisher

who can’t stop checking facebook when they’re supposed to be revising. The unique thing about the app is that instead of simply blocking social media apps or sites, it motivates you to stay off your phone by growing a tree on screen. As you revise, the tree grows, but if you leave the app, the tree will wither and die. As you built up your forest, you can see a physical representation of how much time you’ve spent revising.

1st May - 19th June 2015

redbrick.me/tech

11

Chimp Link Causes Back Pain Sci and Tech explores what is causing your back pain this month as you revise.

between the vertebrae with no single cause, multiple factors can contribute.

However, this study highlighted the major links it has to stress and strain on the lower back as causes, and these should definitely not be overlooked.

The corresponding author, Prof Mark Collard, declared the study a valuable insight into the health and lifestyles of

Rachel Taylor Sci & Tech Editor

Back pain from all the huddled revision this month? You’re more likely to have a chimpanzee-shaped spine than others!

A new study, published in April this year

by BMC Evolutionary Biology, detailed experiments involving scientists from Scotland, Canada and Iceland where they investigated the shapes of the spinal bones and their relationship with other primates.

The core of the study analysed orangutan, chimpanzee and ancient human skeleton vertebrae and how the shape affected the health of the spine in upright movement. It was found that those who suffer from lower back pain are more likely to have a chimpanzee-like shaped spine. The similarity to our closest living primate is due to a lesion that forms in the discs of the lower spine, creating a different shape.

The lesion in humans is commonly known as Schmorl’s node, and was identified among individuals in the study as a common feature along with their lower back pain. Schmorl’s node in humans is a small hernia that occurs in the disc

"the findings could help doctors predict who may be at risk of back problems"

BruceBlaus

our ancestors. The researchers say their findings could help doctors predict who may be at risk of back problems, and helping them before it gets too painful.

The study highlights that some people’s extreme vertebrae shape may mean that some people are not as well adapted to walking upright. This may be shocking, however over the last 30,000 years that Homo sapiens have existed, we have not all adapted the same way. Evolution is not future thinking and we just adapt for what is best for our current environment from the mutations that arise in the population.

Do not fear, if you get back pain over the revision term, it is a very common health issue in humans so you are not alone!

You should ensure you are comfortable and not putting pressure on one part of your body at any point. Another important tip is not to be sedentary at your desk for too long and move about to stay healthy and involved in your work.

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12 1st May - 19th June 2015

redbrick.me/music

Music

Tweet of the Week: @arzE: "some people's haters is an inside job"

Marika Hackman is obsessed with darkness, so when I speak to her hours after the lunar eclipse, the moody grey daylight seems appropriately ominous. Desapite having released her debut album We Slept At Last just a month prior to our conversation, she speaks about it with a sense of retrospect as if it was years older, reminiscing about her producer and the pool table in the recording studio.

A week later, she comes onstage at the Rainbow to polite applause from the audience, who haven’t quite filled out the tiny, living room-sized venue. It’s in dead silence that she begins with ‘Retina Television’ from her first EP, a perfect introduction to her ethereal, unadorned voice. She tells me that she stopped getting nervous on stage after touring with Laura Marling. ‘I don’t get nervous anymore... it’s more of a release now.’ Alone on stage with just a guitar, without a band, drummer or bassist, there is little for her to hide behind, yet she appears unfazed, even after forgetting the lyrics and having to start ‘Ophelia’ again.

Redbrick Meets: Marika Hackman Natalie Hatton

Music Critic

"Her fascination with the macabre appears to be the thread running through her work" This unpretentious acoustic set works beautifully for most of the songs performed, which are drawn from her earlier, formative EPs as well as the album. For this she worked with producer Charlie Andrew of Alt J fame. ‘It’s a very collaborative thing ...

It’s one of those things where it feels very mutual with Charlie. It’s very hard to define who does what, because we have the same ideas’. Hackman evidently enjoyed being in the studio; ‘it could be a very intense process, you haven’t got any sunlight, you’re stuck in a little room for months, but actually, I’ve never felt bound or stressed in the studio. It’s only ever been a complete joy to work.’

Inevitably, some of the album's production detail is lost on stage. The album’s vaguely medieval vibe gives way to a creepier, more atmospheric performance; while performing, she stares at a spot on the wall above the audience’s heads, as if hypnotised. ‘Animal Fear’, the most upbeat, drum-heavy track on the album, feels bottomless without a drumbeat to anchor it, yet this only adds to the unsettling quality of her performance.

When I send my friend Hackman’s outstanding cover of Lykke Li’s ‘I Follow Rivers’, she replies that the song ended too abruptly, that she was left waiting for the climax. This is exactly what is so unsettling about her performance; the songs build up slowly, but there's rarely the release you're waiting for. The tension in the room is broken with Hackman’s nervous guitar tuning between songs; ‘I haven’t quite mastered tuning my guitar at the same time as being hilarious on stage’.

This is not to say that it is a poor performance, quite the opposite – it is precisely what you would expect from someone who sings about ‘the sickly sweet of my rotting skin’ in ‘Monday Afternoon’, a song which she describes as ‘another sing-along happyclappy song about someone who goes down to the forest to find her love and she can't

find him so she lies down to die’.

Hackman’s fascination with the macabre appears to be the thread running through her work so far, yet she is clearly conscious of stagnating. A sense of progression is evident

"It's an intense process, you're stuck in a little room for months with no sunlight" even from what she’s released so far – ‘the EPs I brought out before, they were experiments, and they were part of my growth ... they span two whole years’. Indeed, going into the recording of We Slept at Last, she was reading Ovid’s Metamorphosis.

Album Preview: Tame Impala - Currents Phil Jones

Music Critic Tame Impala are arguably one of the most creative bands around at the moment, with their two albums being masterclasses in sun-kissed psychedelia. With the band’s last album arriving in 2012, it has now been almost three years since we have had new Tame Impala material and so we are definitely due more paisley gems. Good news for Kevin Parker fans has arrived in the form of the announcement of the band’s third album, due to be titled ‘Currents’.

Our first taste of the album is known as ‘Let It Happen’, an almost eight-minute long beast of a track, which slowly builds in to a modern odyssey. This is Parker taking all the ideas the band have explored before and pushing them to their limits. Synth lines dance around a beat which often threatens to escape from itself but always holds a cinematic quality, aided by a string section which appears later in the song.

The newest track released from the album, ‘Cause I’m a Man’ represents Parker’s full-on transformation in to a soul crooner. The track oozes with slow-jam style RnB grooves, layered below the band’s

‘Transformation... that idea of growth and change and turning into something else, had a big effect on the record that I didn’t realize it had at the time.’ Now already in the process of writing album two, she’s ‘really excited to play on people’s perceptions of myself... I want to move on to the next thing, I don’t want to keep doing the same thing over and over again.’ There’s no doubt that she’ll keep us on our toes.

Her set comes to a close and she leaves the stage, but she runs back on with a childish energy for a spontaneous encore, taking audience requests for her closing song, eventually deciding on ‘Mountain Spines’, which ends, ‘I will be plagued with your blood/In the end’. Hopefully she won’t leave behind her compelling obsession with the grotesque in what is sure to be a bright, if dark, future.

signature psychedelic noodling and a guitar line straight out of the paranoid-mind which crafted Lonerism. The result sounds like ‘Human Nature’-era Michael Jackson has been shot in to space and is an unexpected treat. One of the band’s most tender moments yet, with Parker showing he has more strings in his bow than first assumed.

Parker has been busy in the past few years, most notably appearing on three tracks on Mark Ronson’s Uptown Special album, showing a funkier side to himself.

His three tracks were definitely highlights of the record and show Parker is still in top songwriting form. Will Parker’s experiences in the land of funk seep their way in to Tame Impala territory? We'll have to wait to find out, but the prospect is certainly exciting.

The two tracks released so far are certainly quality additions to the band’s setlist, but there is always a nagging wish at the back of the mind for more incessantly stomping tracks such as Lonerism’s ‘Elephant’. How the rest of the album sounds remains to be seen, but what we have heard so far suggests a move in to new exiting territories for a band who have never played it particularly safe.

Tame Impala released one of the best albums of 2010, and without a doubt released the best album of 2012. Will they take the crown of best record in 2015?

Judging by the early signs, I wouldn’t bet against it.

14 1st May - 19th June 2015

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Music

Album Review: The Wombats Glitterbug Kirstie Sutherland Music Critic

Known to our generation as that cheeky band from Liverpool who urged us all to 'kill the director' and 'dance to Joy Division', The Wombats are back with their third offering. Four years after their sophomore release This Modern Glitch, new album Glitterbug still packs a punch, despite exploring a slightly different in sound.

Influenced by lead singer Matthew Murphy's time in Los Angeles, it is without doubt their most refined collection of songs so far.

However, this begs the question: is a refined sound something that The Wombats are really suited to?

"Is this new refined sound something The Wombats are really suited to?"

Opening with 'Emoticons', the album starts off with a mid-tempo rhythm that fans of the band might not entirely be used to. It is quite a 'funky' track that will stick in your head for a while, not necessarily for the lyrics but instead for the guitar licks throughout.

The album is different in the sense that the band stick with the synth and techno influence that can be heard on their second album, however it can be heard with much more depth on Glitterbug: tracks 'Be Your Shadow' and 'Headspace' illustrate this in particular, both songs sounding quite farremoved from the indie pop style of theirs we've all grown to know and love. For me, this change in direction doesn't always pay off, and the band's attempt at a ballad 'Isabel', the story of a night in a hotel between two lovers, starts with great promise but doesn't really take off.

However, there are plenty of callbacks to the band's roots, with tracks 'The English Summer' and 'Pink Lemonade' sounding like they've come straight out of 2007, essentially A Guide to Love, Life and Desperation with a slightly more modern twist. 'He pulls my hair, he coerces me / Into a world where romance is just a game, / And this awkward feeling is getting in the way' are the perfect lyrics to illustrate this within 'Pink Lemonade', showing us that despite their growing maturity, they still have indiedisco issues at the heart of at least some of their efforts.

The band have made good choices in terms of singles, releasing what I'd deem as two of the stand out songs on the album to precede its release - 'Your Body Is A Weapon' is punchy and combines classic Wombats style with a synth edge that pays off into a super catchy chorus. 'Greek

"There are plenty of callbacks to the band's roots" Tragedy' is a brilliant example of the band's slight change in direction for the better, banging drums and a perfect balance of synth and guitar riffs to set off one of the better-crafted songs on Glitterbug – it’s one of those tracks you can easily have on repeat for a straight hour on a long car journey.

Despite a slightly unbalanced collection of songs, Glitterbug does deliver (to a degree) and I have no doubt this album will sound brilliant live. It might be hard for some die-hard fans to adjust to a few of the changes, but it can be seen as the most obvious step for The Wombats now they're an older, seemingly more mature outfit.

Single Review: Shura - 2Shy Graca Mutseyami Music Critic

There is something about openly admitting love for someone through song.

From Beyoncé to Fleetwood Mac, it seems to work 100% of the time. Shura's '2shy' is a love letter delivered through song - a kind of sonnet for the 21st century.

However, the track's retro stylings are so familiar they begin to feel generic. The production is so 80s it's painful – it's like being transported into a pink, purple and lilac teenage girl’s bedroom with people wearing enough washed denim to clothe the whole of East London.

"2shy is a love letter delivered through song - a kind of sonnet for the 21st century" If Cindy Lauper was topping charts in 2015, this might be a bit what she'd sound like. Shura's vocals are dreamy and sultry – a trait evident in her other singles too.

Despite venturing slightly into the realm of PBR'n'B, she’s gradually establihing herself as electronic pop princess. As well as the chorus's catchy hook, the lyr-

ics are a memorable part of the song.

She hesitates with the words ‘We could be more than friends/Baby I was 2shy, 2shy’; most people have felt this way at one point or another, so the words pack a punch.

"The clever delivery epitomises the emotion of what it's like to be a wallflower" As an onlooker, Shura is suggestive in her desires of what could have been, delivered through a narrative of encounters between her and the object of her affection. The clever delivery perfectly captures the emotion of what it’s like to be a wallflower; at the same time, it's a great sountrack for gathering your thoughts, swallowing your pride and approaching ‘the one’.

If it’s not the happy ending you wanted, stay optimistic - confidence is crucial and this track might just give you that little boost. Even if you can't relate directly to the unrealised love explored in '2shy's lyrics, you can still appreciate the slick production and Shura's clever, considered performance.

16 1st May - 19th June 2015

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Film

Trailer Update: Revived Franchises Critic Jess Ennis takes a look at some franchises making a comeback this year.

Review: The Falling

Details Release date: 24th April 2015 Director: Carol Morley Cast: Maxine Peake, Maisie Williams, Florence Pugh Running time: 102 minutes IMDB rating: 6.3

««««« James Cox Critic

The next twelve to eighteen months seem to have a very common ideology, cinematically speaking. The rebirth of the movie franchise is by no means an alien concept to modern audiences, but 2015 and 2016 see the latest instalments in some of the most beloved franchises of all time – Jurassic Park, Terminator, Star Wars, Batman, and/ or Superman.

But will the films fall prey to their own hype? In worlds of artificial dinosaurs, complex time travel, galaxies far, far away, and superheroes with many different faces, it can be easy to lose an audience in the headiness of their own hysteria. Conversely, these instalments could mean the successful regeneration of the franchises, giving the old dogs a chance to show us their new tricks.

Jurassic World Release Date: 11th June 2015 The trailer for Jurassic World looks, for lack of a better word, epic. There’s no expense spared on the CGI; with a single shot comprising of a helicopter falling through the dome of a giant botanical jungle containing a T-Rex, it’s by no means going to be a small film. But, fantastically immersive as it looks, the trailer raises a single, very important question.

Is it the same story again? An escaped dinosaur poses a threat to mankind as it roams, seemingly unstoppable, across a vast island - it seems to be the same construction as the first three films. So why, then, the fourteen year gap between movies that have the same story and, if Jurassic World sets out to end humanity, the same outcome?

It will be interesting to see the advancements in CGI, make no mistake, but it seems problematic that fans have waited over a decade for a film that looks to do the same as the last one. Though hopefully, better.

Terminator Genisys Release Date: 1st July 2015 It’s unclear if anyone at this point, following on from 2009’s Salvation, can make any sense of the Terminator universe. Whilst Salvation, at least, seemed to lead into the logical future of the original Terminator movies’ chronology, Genisys is a complete break from this – it's a whole new timeline.

From the trailer, we can gather that Kyle Reese teams up with Sarah Connor, John’s mother, and Arnie – the original Terminator – to stop Judgement Day. It’s an interesting premise, and the concept of time travel is always handled with an exciting technological twist in the Terminator movies, but it’s very plausible that, given the sheer amount of hops backwards and forwards in time that Genisys is stemming from (and containing), the film will be completely impenetrable.

"Will these films successfully regenerate their franchises or fall prey to their own hype?"

Emilia Clarke looks set to be wonderful as Sarah Connor, and Jason Clarke looks like he’ll deliver – as always – as John Connor, but it’s unclear if what they’re saying, albeit very well, will mean anything to anyone at all.

Star Wars: The Force Awakens Release Date: 18th December 2015 Even if you’re not a Star Wars fan, sheer curiosity means you should be interested to see what’s going to happen in George Lucas’s return to the saga. The trailer itself does very little in the way of revealing plot, but it’s a beautiful call back to the earlier movies –

there are desert expanses of wasteland while reprises of the main themes play, the echoing breaths of Darth Vader, and the broken end of a lightsaber all point towards a lovely continuity between The Force Awakens and the earlier films. The Stormtroopers’ guns even make the same noise.

It’ll be interesting to see whether, as the film’s release draws closer, Lucasfilm will release anything to tell us what the movie might be about; for now, though, the Millenium Falcon flying through the underbelly of a vast marooned spaceship and the familiar beep of R2-D2 tell us one thing. No matter the story, movie lovers and fans of the franchise seem set to return to the world they loved.

In the words of Han Solo: “Chewie, we’re home.”

Batman v. Superman: Dawn of Justice Release Date: 25th March 2016 It would be easy to say that the over-saturation of Batman movies in the last decade at least has led to a weary audience, one tired of continual reboots and an expectation to follow a continually fluctuating movie canon. But in truth, the trailer for Dawn of Justice looks incredibly interesting. It’s dark, moody, and philosophical – the most striking moment of which is a classicalesque sculpture of Superman, bearing graffiti. Its message? 'FALSE GOD.' If the film lives up to the complex questioning of the superhero that the trailer sets up, Batman v. Superman could be more than just a studio-driven amalgamation of some profitable figures – it could be a really very interesting take on the glorification of the modern hero.

A soundbite of Jesse Eisenberg’s Lex Luthor poses t the ultimate tease: “Devils don’t come from hell beneath us - they come from the sky.”

From writer/director Carol Morley, The Falling follows Lydia Lamb (Maisie Williams) during an epidemic of fainting at an all-girls school in 1969, after the untimely death of student Abbey (Florence Pugh).

One thing this film gets spot on is its tone. The film feels like a creepy cousin of Picnic at Hanging Rock and also shares thematic points with Carol Anne Duffy’s poem The Laughter of Stafford Girls High. The acting is one element of this, but the cinematography, with its swooping shots of lakes and of an old oak, gives the film a horror-like quality, inspiring a subtle, but very effective, feeling of dread.

The film is a maze of artistic ambiguity, which both aides and hinders the storytelling. The use of music perfectly illustrates the conflict within the piece. The music played by the girls is the perfect balance of comforting and creepy – the group harmonies and rhythmic instrumentals conjuring up connotations of witchcraft. However, the use of some tracks in the transitions between scenes does give it an undeniably “stagey” quality, feeling more like scene change music in an A-level drama piece. An therein lies the problem. The whole film feels like it was written for an A-level drama production where fainting resembles interpretive dance and the imagery is both incredibly obvious and hopelessly vague.

Given its current critical acclaim it is entirely possible that I am too thick to get it; that I am just being dim and there is in fact huge depth to the imagery and themes.

The film seems to be about one thing in one scene, and something completely different with none of the thematic strands feeling like they resonate. As a fan of arthouse cinema, I love films that require multiple viewing. However, The Falling is unlikely to encourage multiple viewings because it fails to make you want to care.

Artistically bold and ambitious, The Falling has much to admire, but little to enjoy.

redbrick.me/film

1st May - 19th June 2015

17

Film News Hayley Allanson Critic

Comic book fans were divided by the first glimpse of Jared Leto’s Joker in the upcoming Suicide Squad adaptation. Leto’s pose harks back to Brian Bolland’s iconic artwork found in Batman: The Killing Joke.

Sadly, with the Suicide Squad release date scheduled for over a year away, only time will tell whether this new direction for the Jester of Genocide pays off.

Horror director Adam Wingard has been signed by Warner Bros to direct the cinematic realisation of the much loved anime series Death Note. Despite Warner Bros having obtained the rights to a Death Note film six years ago (and being linked to Iron Man 3 director Shane Black at one point), the film has remained in limbo until now. It is reported that Wingard will start production after completing his latest film The Woods.

Review: Avengers: Age of Ultron Critic Katie Manzi reviews Marvel's latest cinematic installment, Avengers: Age of Ultron ...

Details Release date: 23rd April 2015 Director: Joss Whedon Cast: Robert Downey Jr, Chris Evans, Mark Ruffalo Running time: 141 minutes IMDB rating: 8.3

««««« Katie Manzi Critic

The latest chapter in Marvel’s unstoppable franchise, and the sequel to the international phenomenon that was The Avengers, has finally hit theaters.

Avengers: Age of Ultron promised to be bigger and better than the first in terms of action, and more intimate and smaller when it comes to the relationships between the characters. So the big question is, did it deliver? Yes and no.

The story begins with the Avengers closing in on a long time hunt for the previous film’s main weapon, Loki’s sceptre. The sceptre is being held by the remnants of Hydra, who have used its power to give “enhance” Wanda and Pietro Maximoff, twins with extraordinary power and a vendetta against the Avengers. It is Tony’s encounter with the twins that tap into his greatest fears, inspiring him to pursue the creation of an artificial intelligence that would protect humanity so the Avengers would not have

to. This being is ultimately realized as the genocidal Ultron, who is set on destroying mankind. The Avengers have to step up in order to save the world from a monster than one of their own created.

The action in the sequel was no doubt bigger. The entire film from start to finish was littered with battle sequences that would put the climaxes of most films to shame. The fights were complicated, quick paced, and showed off each of the heroes’ abilities very well. However, this constant barrage of action made the finale of the film seem almost anti climatic. It seemed no more dramatic or intense than the fights that had come before, and left something to be desired.

Within the group, there is certainly enough jokes and comradery to go around, but the intimate scenes and emotional connections between the team is reserved for just a few of the characters. One of these characters is Hawkeye who, after being sidelined for most of the previous film, really gets to shine this time around.

"there is certainly enough jokes and comradery to go around..."

Audiences learn who Hawkeye is as both a hero and a man, reminding the audience what a valuable member of the team he really is. Tony Stark has his fair share of emotion also. Still clearly suffering from severe mental trauma after his trip through the wormhole, Tony's struggle with his crippling fears throughout the film is beautifully acted. The last two who experience the most intimacy are Black Widow and Bruce Banner. For some unexplained reason, these two have fallen in love.

This development is never really explained and poorly set up, leaving an unconvincing romance in its wake.

Unfortunately, that was Age of Ultron’s

biggest weakness. It flew straight into the story with no establishment of who the characters are now compared to where we have last seen them, and how their current relationships have devel-

"The plot was too big and there were too many character to tell a completely satisfying story..." oped. It left many of the interactions between the characters feeling hollow.

It was not all disappointing though.

The humor, as usual, was on point. and there are more than just a few laugh out loud moments through the course of the film.Ultron as a villain is charming, scarily powerful, and wildly entertaining. He is an angry child, desperately trying to convince his parents he should let him destroy the world. Ultron, expertly voiced

by James Spader, is one of the film’s greatest successes. The other is Vision played by Paul Bettany. Without giving too much away, The Vision is possibly one of the most important characters moving forward into the Infinity Wars, and his presence in the Marvel Universe changes everything. In fact, by the end of this movie, everything about the Avengers has changed.

Overall Avengers: Age of Ultron was a good movie; better than Thor and Captain America: The First Avenger, but not nearly in the league of Captain America: The Winter Soldier, Guardians of the Galaxy, or its own predecessor.

Simply put, this movie ran out of time, and that is saying something since it came in at a whopping 141 minutes. The plot was too big and there were too many characters to tell a completely satisfying story in the length of one movie. If anything, this film shows the wisdom in Marvel splitting its next Avengers film into two parts.

Not only is Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles 2 happening (sigh), but it has also found a new Shredder in the form of Brian Tee (probably known best for his role as Takashi, AKA Drift King, in the Fast and Furious franchise). Tee will replace Tohoru Masamune as leader of the Foot Clan and joins new cast members Stephen Amell and Tyler Perry in the sequel.

After months of casting updates relating to the younger generation of Bryan Singer’s X-Men: Apocalypse (including the casting of Game of Thrones star Sophie Turner as a young Jean Grey and Eastender’s Ben Hardy as Angel), an official picture of one of the mutant teens has been revealed. This new image gives us an initial look at Kodi SmitMcPhee’s teen Nightcrawler, a character who was previously (and superbly) played

by Alan Cumming in X2.

18 1st May - 19th June 2015

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Television

Daredevil: Devilishly Good?

It's the latest in Marvel's run of superhero TV shows, and the arrival of Daredevil on the Netflix has set audiences alight across the world. Writers Harry Turner and Matt Dawson give their thoughts on the series here.

"Daredevil is a fresh and different addition to the superhero genre"

by Harry Turner It’s no understatement that Marvel’s Daredevil has a lot of competition. Over the past year, the superhero genre on TV has become very crowded, very quickly – and with spin-offs in development for Arrow and Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D, it doesn’t look like the field will get any clearer.

This, it would seem, Daredevil is very much aware of. In many ways, the show appears to be a reaction to the genre, offering a different, dark and intriguing premiere that sets it apart from the crowd.

What immediately sets Daredevil apart from its competition is its far grittier, far more brutal tone. The end scene to the premiere is particularly chilling in showing the violent nature of Hell’s Kitchen, and of the enemy that Matt Murdock faces.

But what really sells the brutality of Hell’s Kitchen is the raw ferocity of the fight scenes. These are consistently brutal, violent, and to some ends sluggish – at least in the premiere. It’s how Daredevil, Matt Murdock, himself appears tired and fatigued – even when fighting just one competent opponent – and how rarely do his opponents go down with just one punch, that the show maintains such a grounded, brutal tone. With even gritty shows such as Arrow often having the main hero dispatching individuals with ease, it’s refreshing to see in Daredevil fight scenes that are much fiercer and much more realistic. Adding to this grit and realism, the colour palette and general cinematography is equally realistic – to the point that, in terms of visuals and colourpalate, the show could be considered rather ugly. Although some have criticised Daredevil for what they see as amateurish film-making, I would argue that this style greatly adds to the tone of show, and the Hell’s Kitchen it seeks to represent: dark but for the industrial yellows of the streetlights, and drab in its decomposing urban identity.

But whilst this different tone makes the show stand out, it’s Charlie Cox’s performance as Matt Murdock that really is the most engaging part of the premiere. Matt’s balance of humour with his dark nature, as

well as his religious side, helps make him feel a much more real character than what is often seen for such brooding archetypes.

Matt’s relationship with Foggy is another highlight – and though the latter is largely just comic-relief in the premiere, Elden Henson plays the character well, and with Cox, sell this friendship better than what most shows manage to. The scenes with his father and him as a child are also well handled, creating a very touching relationship in a very short amount of time. Despite all the darkness, there’s real heart to Daredevil that I expect will make the show only more painful to watch in the trying times that are inevitably ahead.

Finally, Daredevil should also be commended for how its handles fitting into a larger mythos. As a part of the wider Marvel Cinematic Universe, Daredevil ran the risk of making this fact too overtly known in out of place references. But Daredevil approaches this with subtlety.

Using the alien invasion which took place in Avengers Assemble as the impetus for a crime-wave Hell’s Kitchen and a boom in the construction industry is an interesting concept. With many having criticised Man of Steel for its rampant destruction, Daredevil’s implicit focus on the destruction caused by superhero activity and the unseen, negative effects of it, is a timely and intriguing aspect to the show. Daredevil offers a rarely seen ground-level perspective to these stories that are usually of vast, epic – regularly global if not universal – scales.

Ultimately it’s difficult to criticise Daredevil’s premiere. Other than it perhaps being too subtle – in both references to the wider cinematic universe, and perhaps the nature of Matt Murdock’s heightened senses (though I personally enjoy how the show doesn’t go out of its way to out-right explain the nature of these powers beyond demonstrating how he uses them) – the premiere is a solid first episode. Daredevil is a fresh and different addition to the superhero genre, to the point that it almost feels like a reaction to it, and with its darker tone and crime-drama style, the show will likely also appeal to those who aren’t fans of the genre too. Marvel have set the bar high for their Netflix TV series – with Daredevil being the first in a number of shows focusing on street-level heroes – and has me already wanting much, much more.

"Daredevil acts as a gripping springboard to a new corner of the Marvel Cinematic Universe"

by Matt Dawsonr Many comic book properties are making their way to the small screen, and with the likes of Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D, Arrow, The Flash and Gotham, it’s getting quite crowded. But Marvel’s Daredevil distinguishes itself by taking a more mature approach, bringing a new, grittier tone to the expanding and interconnected Cinematic Universe. With the entire first season available at once on Netflix, Daredevil is the first of four new series focusing on “street-level” heroes (the others being AKA Jessica Jones, Luke Cage and Iron Fist) before culminating in a Defenders miniseries, much like how they established the first Avengers film.

It’s aftermath of the events of the Avengers that drives the main plot. Blind lawyer Matt Murdock (Charlie Cox) delivers his own form of vigilante justice at night in Hell’s Kitchen, New York, and it’s these activities that draw the attention of corrupt businessman and mob boss Wilson Fisk (Vincent D’Onofrio). Together with the help of his partner Foggy Nelson (Elden Henson) and client-turned-secretary Karen Page (Deborah Ann Woll), Murdock tries to stop Fisk’s plans to destroy the city.

Daredevil manages really well to distance itself from the 2003 film. Charlie Cox really captures the tortured and conflicted protagonist, particularly with the desire to enact justice and vengeance contrasted with a strong Catholic ideology and not wanting to kill. This is shown through the confessional conversations he has with the Priest, and the efficient usage of flashbacks to his childhood. His loss of sight is touched on, but never elaborated as the root cause of his abilities and it doesn’t resort to using the cheesy “sonar vision” that Ben Affleck’s Daredevil did.

But the most memorable character is that of Vincent D’Onofrio’s Wilson Fisk, who undergoes a transformation and descends further into monstrosity. I have heard some criticism that he isn’t the coldhearted Kingpin from the comics, but it is very much Fisk’s origin story as it is

Murdock’s; the audience sympathises with his motives as we watch him transform from an emotional and impulsive businessman who wants to make the city a better place into someone who embraces his inner monster. Initially, he is very much a lonely, damaged boy trapped inside a man’s body, even going so far as to ask affirmation from his girlfriend Vanessa “I am not a monster, am I?” The unrestrictive format of having all the episodes available from the start means that the show’s producers can hold off from introducing him for the first few episodes, giving time to develop his reputation before revealing himself in all his flawed glory.

The rest of the cast give strong performances, from Elden Henson’s perfect comic timing and relatable humour as Foggy to Deborah Ann Woll’s independence as she further investigates Fisk’s corruption, proving that a female lead in a show like this can be more than a simple love interest. But the biggest character that suffered a lack of screen time was Claire Temple (Rosario Dawson) who showed some promise as a nurse who patched Murdock up after he received some pretty tough beatings, although I wouldn’t be surprised if she turned up in any of the other Defenders series.

The gritty tone is something refreshingly different that Daredevil brings to the MCU. The fight scenes are beautifully choreographed, especially the one in a hallway that was filmed in one take. The vigilante sequences give the show a very Batman Begins feel to it, especially when Murdock spends the majority of them in a homemade costume interrogating thugs in back alleys and shipping containers. The level of violence and gore was initially surprising, and at times you forget that this is set in the same universe as Iron Man and a talking raccoon. But every now and then, the producers throw in a little reference to the Avengers or the “Battle of New York”, effectively tying this story into their connected universe.

On the whole, Daredevil acts as a gripping springboard to a new corner of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. It brings a much-needed mature tone, it has a wellrounded cast led by a conflicted and complicated hero, and introduces what could be one of Marvel’s (and television’s) greatest villains that we will undoubtedly see more of in the future.

1st May - 19th June 2015

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19

TV Quote of the Week: Poldark's guide to being a gentleman: Ross Poldark to George Warleggan: "Poverty does not offend me, nor does aspiration. But you are mistaken if you think greed and exploitaton are the marks of a gentleman."

Top 5: Election TV Shows

With May 7th gradually looming, the General Election is everywhere - even all over our TV screens. TV critic Olivia Tracey tells us which TV shows will be getting her vote in the Election coverage.

You could be forgiven if you are confused by the constant overload of information in the press surrounding the general election.

Although I am a huge advocate of political participation and believe everyone should vote, even if you just spoil your ballot paper, I am getting increasingly baffled by the amount of policy announcements and constant analysis in the media. Luckily, TV saves the day by providing some brilliant drama, comedy and insight into who you should vote for on 7th May. Here are my top five picks of what’s to come or what you can find on catch-up TV:

edy if you're sick of standard Election coverage!

4. Coalition – Channel 4 (4oD) This was a fascinating drama giving an inside view of negotiations between the three main parties in 2010 that led to the Conservatives and Liberal Democrats forming the first Coalition government in thirtysix years. In 2015, the ending feels inevitable, but the writers did an excellent job of portraying the wearied Nick Clegg as kingmaker and David Cameron and Gordon Brown vying for his attention. Mark Gatiss steals the show as the shadowy Labour minister Peter Mandelson, a performance apparently based on Mycroft Holmes in Sherlock.

You can still watch Coalition on 4oD.

"TV saves the day by providing drama, comedy and insight into who you should vote for" 1. The ITV Leader’s Debate/The BBC Election Debate/Channel 4’s Battle for Number 10 What was interesting about the various TV debates was that there was no definite frontrunner. After ‘Clegg-mania’ gripped the nation after the 2010 Leader’s Debates, commentators predicted that the debates could have a huge effect on how people viewed the party leaders and who they would ultimately vote for. However, current polls suggest that this simply hasn’t happened. If anything, I think these debates have actually confused me further as to who to vote for, in an already confusing election.

The smaller parties are gathering momentum but opinion polls don’t seem to show a

swing in one direction or the other. Thanks to the debates, I remain a thoroughly confused voter.

including Hugh Dennis (Outnumbered) and Esther Smith (Cockroaches) and the first episode was sharp and well observed so Ballot Monkeys ticks all the boxes.

2. Ballot Monkeys – Channel 4 (Tuesdays 10pm) This new sitcom from Outnumbered writers Andy Hamilton and Guy Jenkin provides some light relief from all that serious political analysis. The strapline that it’s a “political comedy so topical it hasn’t been written yet” is more than apt as its creators use recent election news to determine what happens in the fictional battle buses for the Conservatives, Labour, the Liberal Democrats and UKIP. The cast is terrific,

3. Charlie Brooker’s Election Wipe – BBC 2 (Wednesday 6th May, 9pm) The wonderfully cynical Charlie Brooker presents a one-hour special of his Weekly Wipe the night before the nation goes to the polls, featuring some of the funnies moments from the campaign. I’ve always liked Brooker’s sardonic take on current affairs, so while it might not help you make a last minute decision on who to vote for, it’ll certainly be very funny and the perfect rem-

5. The Vote – More 4 (Thursday 7th May, 8.25pm) A co-production between Channel 4 and the Donmar Warehouse theatre in London, The Vote is a play written by James Graham and broadcast live on TV from the Donmar stage as the polls close on election night. It’s set in a fictional London polling station in the last ninety minutes before voting ends, giving the unique perspective of the people who vote and volunteer on the day of the general election. With an all-star cast, including Dame Judi Dench (EsioTrot), Fisayo Akinade (Ordinary Lies, Cucumber), Bill Paterson (Law and Order UK), Catherine Tate (Doctor Who) and Mark Gatiss (who seems to be in everything at the moment), this is set to be a real televisual treat. If you’re fed up with traditional election night coverage, this looks like a fantastic alternative.

Daredevil: The Facts You've started the show on Netflix or perhaps you've watched all 13 episodes as one long film but how much do you really know about the show? Televsion Editor Jaffrina Jahan gives you the facts.

1. Daredevil's first live action appearance was in the 1989 television film The Trial of the Incredible Hulk.

2. Daredevil was adapted to the silver screen in 2003 with Ben Affleck in the main role. Slated by critics and fans, the adaptation was an example of bad superhero films in the early 2000s. When we say bad we mean bad. Fox attempted to reboot the film years later but ended up giving the rights to Marvel.

3. When cast in the show, Rosario Dawson was expected to play Elektra but is in fact playing Claire Temple, a version of Marvel's hero Night Nurse.

4.Charlie Cox was Joe Quesada's first choice for the role, going back even before Marvel regained the rights to the character - this was back when Joe Quesada was Marvel's Editor in Chief, now he's their Chief Creative Officer.

5.Daredevil is the first of many Netflix series, that will lead up to an eventual crossover in The Defenders.

6. Charlie Cox is the first non-American actor to play Matt Murdock/Daredevil in a live action adaption of the character 7.On the show, his first suit is all black and made from easily accessible materials.

Then, he's apparently given his "superhero" suit, which is the more traditional all red.

In the comics however, his first appearance was in a lively yellow and red costume!

8. “Although these are superhero stories,

this is different now. This is the street level this is the street level noir side of the Marvel Universe. Something that you haven’t really, really seen in any of our Marvel movies,” said Joe Quesada (Marvel's Chief Creative Officer).

9. Disney CEO Bob Iger has explained that they chose to put these heroes - Daredevil, Iron Fist, Luke Cage, and Jessica Jones - on the small screen because they were “not among the most popular,” but added that if the series turned out to be major hits on Netflix, then a feature film for the individual characters could be possible.

10. At 6"3" and 280 pounds, Vincent D'Onforio is somehow the smallest Kingpin yet. In the comics, Kingpin weighs in at 350 pounds and stands at 6"7.

11. Daredevil lives in New York alongside many other superheroes and the Avengers. have estabished themselves in the city.

12. Who is the man behind the mask?

Charlie Cox played the main role of Tristan Thorn in Stardust and a supporting character in Oscar nominated The Theory Of Everything. His role as Owen Slater in Boardwalk Empire makes him no stranger to crime and action..

13. Netflix has announced that series 2 will debut for the 2016 season.

All 13 episodes of the first series of Daredevil are availble on Netflix

20 1st May -19th June 2015

redbrick.me/culture

Culture

Rebecca: A Study in Jealousy at the REP Lucy Mounfield Culture Editor checks out the latest the REP's latest intriguing production Daphne Du Maurier’s gothic tale of love, jealousy and intrigue has been adapted by the acclaimed Kneehigh Theatre Company in association with Theatre Royal, Plymouth and is currently being performed at the REP. Rebecca is a well-loved novel that has had the pleasure of being adapted for film by Alfred Hitchcock. Hitchcock exploited the suspense and horror aspects of the novels whilst infusing romance into the characterisations. However, nowhere did he or anyone else employ comedic tones or brash eccentric characters. Kneehigh have thrown away the usual assumptions and stereotypical adaptations with their loud, brash and often

"Jealousy may be asserted in the title but unfortunately the storytelling fails to develop this fully." very funny take on the gothic tale.

Rebecca, if you don’t already know, tells the story of the inhabitants of Manderley Hall and the deep secret that is being kept by Maxim de Winter-the proprietor and heir to the Manderley estate. The play opens with him returning to Manderley with the new Mrs de Winter. However, it isn’t long until secrets creep out of the woodwork and it is discovered that she is not the first Mrs de Winter. The opening scene makes this clear with a mannequin being lowered down beneath a ship that takes centre stage.

Manderley becomes one with nature and the sea looms large in the play as an ominous and intriguing backdrop to the interplay of relationships. Who is the mannequin representing and who was Maxim’s first wife?

Well that is of course Rebecca who mysteriously died in a boating accident. Her presence is built up until you can almost see her

weaving in between Maxim and the second Mrs de Winter. The play acknowledges its main theme to be jealousy-which is obviously felt by Maxim’s second wife who is constantly reminded of Rebecca’s controlling presence over the Manderley estate.

Jealousy may be asserted in the title but unfortunately the storytelling fails to devel-

"I wasn't adverse to the comedic touches at first, but they soon began to grate and overshadow the actual story."

thus created was heightened by the live music (often played by the cast!) featuring folk music and mournful sea shanties. I really can’t overstate how good this aspect of the play was, which makes it all the more frustrating that it was spliced with bits seemingly out of a carry on film. I wasn’t averse to the comedic touches at first, but they soon began to grate and overshadow the actual story.

Emma Rice’s Rebecca is a showy and at times annoying adaptation of classic taleamazing sets should not be used in expense of the storytelling. I enjoyed the performance even if mostly as a fantastic piece of set, music and lighting design. This is not du Maurier’s tale but Kneehigh’s own, and can be enjoyed on its own merits if you look past that.

op this fully. Comedic turns by Maxim’s sister Bea and her husband Giles overshadow and cut through the tension. In and of themselves they are highly entertaining and they, along with Robert the under-butler [Katy Owen] regularly had the audience in stiches. However, these comedic performances jarred tonally with the bleak atmosphere produced by the amazing set and musical accompaniment that fed into Imogen Sage’s Mrs de Winter II. The tension between the housekeeper Mrs Danvers and Sage’s de Winter was rather lackluster as Emily Raymond’s Mrs Danvers crept slowly and awkwardly across the stage as if not sure how important her part was. Indeed, she is central to the story of Rebecca in Du Maurier’s novel-constantly undermining the new Mrs de Winter-creating an almost lesbian affair with the late Rebecca.

I’ve already mentioned that the set was fantastic, but it’s worth reiterating. A single, intricate set was used, but through clever lighting it was transformed from indoors to outdoors, and from the house at Manderley to the windswept beach. The atmosphere

The Man Booker Prize Winner Book Review Charlotte Spence Culture Editor reminds us of a book prize that we should keep our eye on over the next month The Man Booker Prize is perhaps the most prestigious prize a writer can win, short of getting a Nobel Prize for literature. The whole idea of the prize is to promote brilliant fiction by rewarding the very best book of the year. In 2014 the judges were chaired

by AC Grayling, and they said about the winner: "Some years, very good books win the Man Booker Prize but this year a masterpiece has won it."

The book they are talking about is 'The Narrow Road to the Deep North' by Richard Flanagan. Now if I'm honest for the first few chapters I was concerned that it would not live up to this immense praise. But I have to say, in the words of the Sunday Times, the

"Some years, very good books win the Man Booker Prize but this year a masterpiece has won it." book really was "Devastatingly Beautiful".

The different elements of the story were woven together brilliantly. The portrayal of various characters, in a similar manner to Gillian Flynn's 'Gone Girl', can leave you with a strong feeling of distaste towards

them. However, there is enough of a human quality to provoke feelings of empathy and sadness in the reader.

The plot line in brief, follows the life of the protagonist Dorrigo Evans. Jumping between his life in the present as a revered war veteran and his time as a young man, both before the war and during his time in a Japanese POW camp building the Burma Death Railway.

The book is at its finest when depicting the scenes of the POW camp. The imagery of the suffering and of the jungle are incredibly evocative and moving. They also pro-

vide an insight into a world that is pretty much lost now.

Without giving too much away, this is no bedtime reading book. Clearly being partially set in a POW camp there are scenes of unbelievable human suffering, it's not the best idea reading about someone dying of cholera or being beaten to death just before you snuggle down for a good night's sleep.

Make sure you check out the list of the ten Man Booker Finalists for this year. And the winner will be announced on the 19th May.

redbrick.me/culture

1st May - 19th June 2015

21

Nothing beats a live theatre performance – the importance of going to the theatre.

Imogen Tink shares her views on way going to the theatre is so important One of the greatest treats of my childhood was being taken to the theatre. A trip that has stuck in my mind is when I was seven or eight and my parents took my brother and me, along with some family friends, to see a stage adaptation of Philip Pullman’s His Dark Materials trilogy. It was split into two parts and involved two very exciting trips to London. My point is that I still remember, twelve years on, how the production made me feel. Excited, frightened, joyful, sad, shocked, the list goes on. This was largely because it was being acted out in front of me: the actors, namely Anna Maxwell Martin of Bleak House fame and a then unknown Dominic Cooper, were mere metres away; we were breathing the same air and sharing the same experience, and

"...in the theatre you cannot distance yourself- you are all in the same space- you are sharing the funniest, saddest and often most shocking parts of the characters' lives and there is no page to turn or remote to turn it all off... "

you could have heard a pin drop in the silent anticipation of the audience, eagerly waiting for more. This is the sort of feeling that you can only get from the theatre.

"As the audience, you are involved, whether you like it or not..."

Recently I went to see a production of A Day in the Death of Joe Egg by Peter Nichols, a glorious offering from a local theatre group in Suffolk, the Gallery Players.

The play deals with disability, often a taboo subject when it comes to theatre. Why? Because it makes us feel uncomfortable and we, as a society, like to distance ourselves from awkward subjects. We turn over to the next page in the magazine, we switch off the TV. However, in the theatre you cannot distance yourself as you are all in the same space: you are sharing the funniest, saddest and often most shocking parts of the characters' lives and there is no page to turn or remote to turn it all off if it makes you feel uncomfortable. A Day in the Death of Joe Egg focusses on the parents of disabled child in the 1960s and how they deal with their family life. The mother, Grace, is loving, strong and gives out her heart to the audience: you are drawn to her and you want her to be happy. Then there is the father, Brian, who seems painfully human – his struggles, his shallowness and his weakness are all things that we both sympathise with and are

disgusted by. The child, Josephine, is a regular presence in her wheelchair and acts as a constant reminder to us at the difficulty of the situation. The family largely use humour as a coping mechanism, cue hundreds of references and jokes about disability that are uncomfortable and disturbing, and yet are clearly the only way that they can deal with everyday life with Joe. As the audience, you are involved, whether you like it or not, as you are sharing the space with the characters and, in the case of A Day in the Death of Joe Egg, you are essentially sitting in their living room. Their problems feel like you problems for the two hours you are in their company.

"Each performance is unique: there will always be a different emotion conveyed or a different emphasis on a particular part of a phrase that could change its meaning."

Obviously, not all productions are as thought provoking or as heavy-going as A Day in the Death of Joe Egg. However, they do confront you with concepts and ideas which you cannot ignore as they are being expressed right in front of your nose. Each

performance is unique: there will always be a different expression on an actor’s face, a different emotion conveyed or a different emphasis on a particular part of a phrase that could change its meaning. People our age don’t see enough theatre, due to the often prohibitive price of theatre tickets, and sadly cannot benefit from the way theatre makes you feel and the way it makes you think.

Has this inspired you?

Here are our top picks of what's coming up in Birmingham: Until 23rd May: Dirty Dancing @ Birmingham Hippodrome Until 6th June: The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night Time @Bimingham Hippodrome From 10th- 12th June: The Magic Flute @Birmingham Hippodrome From 30th June- 4th July: Oklahoma! @Birmingham Hippodrome

Review: Five Soldiers at the REP Sophie Neal shares her enthusiasm for one of the newest productions from the REP Rosie Kay’s production of 5 Soldiers proves that two completely different aspects can be effortlessly fused together. Through the medium of contemporary dance, she executes a military career so perfectly, I forget I am watching dancers and am absorbed in the action, right there with the soldiers.

5 Soldiers presents an Officer, Sergeant and three soldiers of the Rifles Battalion. Dressed in full camo gear complete with tough boots, the piece begins with rhythmic marching in an almost robotic fashion, showing the intense, repetitive training. They march quickly round and round the space, quickly breaking out into a sweat. The Sergeant shouts orders and quickly we are training with them. The REP is intimate which allows us to hear their breathing and

heavy steps as they create rhythms alongside the repetitive music.

The next section takes us to blazing orange light and tired looking soldiers; I can almost feel the heat of the desert. They suddenly become individuals, rather than uniformed stereotypes.

At the end of the day, they let of steam and hilariously dance to Katy Perry’s ‘Firework’.

Whilst the boys mess around, the female soldier takes her time to take off her heavy boots and clothes, wash and unravel her hair from the tight bun. She becomes an object of desire for the men and is pursued by them. They realise how inappropriate their actions are and she immediately becomes a mother figure, a comfort and a link to home. The possibility of a relationship between the Officer and the female soldier is

also touched on as they dance together but this is dismissed. It gives an emotional view, one which we don’t see portrayed in the media.

Shelley Eva Haden (who plays the female soldier in this production) is an extremely talented dancer, from the ability to move like a soldier to performing her elegant solo.

Rosie Kay and her dancers spent six weeks training with a rifles battalion to gain insight and inspiration for the choreography. This was time well spent, as the movements are executed in such a believable way. What is so excellent about this piece is that Kay has used minimal props and set changes to show the soldiers journey, yet the audience feel that they are right there, fighting with them. The patrol sections ends with one of the soldiers being shot, result-

ing in a double amputation of both legs. The dancer’s legs are strapped up, requiring him to show immense strength as he dances on his knees and arms. The final minutes are powerful and hard hitting as he shows that the impacts of conflict from whichever war, are life-long. The piece closes with his slow, defiant march forward as the lights lower.

In just over an hour, 5 Soldiers gives a moving insight into the minds, relationships and journeys made by soldiers and can be applied not just to modern conflict, but to all wars. The piece will touch audiences of all backgrounds, whether they have fought in conflict or know little about it; it increases the awareness of the physical sacrifices made by our Service Men and Women.

22

redbrick.me/food

1st May - 19th June 2015

Food

Cooking The Ultimate Steak Food Writer Ella Downing shares her family tips to make the ultimate steak a perfect centerpiece to a Summer barbecue.

Although a popular dish, cooking steak well can feel like a daunting task. But it shouldn’t be. With a restaurant steak costing between £15 and £25, and a good shop bought cut ranging from about £8£15 it’s a great choice for students on a budget that fancy something special. My dad always says he can cook steak better than a restaurant, so here are his top tips on how to cook the perfect steak.

Choosing the meat Fillet and sirloin are thought to be ‘best’ cuts, but for me, rump is the unsung hero for texture, flavour and price. When shop-buying if it looks young, pink, bright and shiny, avoid it. Unlike fish, young is not good. If it’s dull, dark and close to its sell-by date it will be more mature, flavoursome and less chewy.

Check the reduced section for hidden gems.

"When shop-buying steak if it looks dull, dark and close to the sell-by date it will be more mature, flavoursome and less chewy" Prep Release your steak from its plastic prison and let it breathe. Then season by rubbing salt on both sides and pepper to your taste. You can also experiment with crushed garlic or chopped onion. Then leave it all to get acquainted. Ten min-

utes is okay if you’re in a hurry, an hour or so is better if not. Leave it out at room temperature. Protect from pets!

Cooking: Generally, people like a few accoutrements – onion, mushrooms, tomatoes, etc. Cook these first in a frying pan, nonstick if possible. Fry gently with a little vegetable oil, or butter, turning frequently and season whilst cooking. Add crushed garlic towards the end so it doesn’t burn.

Plate that up and put it in the oven and, if your ovens on, stick a handful of cherry tomatoes in there (no oil – this makes them greasy). i) Now your veg is cooked and your pan is prepped for the steak– don’t wash it! ii) Slap your steak in the pan. Give it a few seconds then flip – the idea is to sear and seal it as fast as possible. Keep it moving, press it to the pan with the fork and keep flipping regularly. Look profesional at all times. iii) Get the pan super-hot. If the smoke alarms are going off you’re doing it right.

Next is a question of taste. The longer you cook steak the more ‘well done’ it will be, but it will lose flavour. It should be dry and smelling grand. Next, crank up the heat and You can’t undercook it – beef is safe to eat raw, although I tend to give it around 3 to 4 minutes. It will look perfectly seared on the outside, but red and juicy inside.You can always put it back in the pan for longer if not impressed (steak is very forgiving and tolerant). If you like it well done, try flattening the

(Photo Credit: pixabay.com)

"It should look perfectly seared on the outside, but red and juicy inside" steak a bit before cooking so you don’t have to cook it for so long for the heat to get to the middle and risk losing tenderness.

Rest it You’ve just given a piece of meat a serious shock. It needs to calm down to get back its full tenderness. Put it on a warm plate, cover and rest for five minutes.You will notice juices seep from it. Turn it a time or two in these juices before serving. Steak is quick and easy to cook and with practice you’ll know how well cooked you like it.

Gas Street Social @ The Mailbox Food Writer Sophie Neal gives her opinion on the newest chic and modern dining addition to The Mailbox Everybody loves socialising, whether it be a party, a good chat or over a nice meal.

Nothing brings people together like food does and the new bar and restaurant in the Mailbox does exactly that! Gas Street Social brings friends together with their excellent range of food and drinks, all designed to be shared!

The interior has a modern shabby chic feel, with wooden tables and low lighting to set the mood for a good night. The bar is equipped with every drink imaginable, complete with tools for beer taps! However, it’s the food that wins here. Delicious, fresh finger food that you’ll sure be arguing over.

Think classic homemade dishes with a gour-

met twist – soft boiled scotch eggs, smoked salmon served inside a smokey jar and tender pieces of beef draped over mini Yorkshire puddings with a topping of mustard.

Is your mouth watering yet? Well, the cocktails are on a different level. Made before your very eyes at the bar, the staff shake it all up to produce some stunning drinks. Their signature is the 'Socialite' – a tropical mix of pineapple, lime and finlandia vodka, topped with pomegranate and served in an elegant glass. Perhaps slightly overpriced at around £8 but if you’re looking for somewhere to escape exam revision for the night, you can sit on the veranda sipping cocktails watching the sun set over the canal and Brindley Place.

It’s also an ideal place to head for a date too – with 3 courses coming in at under £20 per head, you could afford to treat yourself or better half (on loan day, perhaps) You can find their menu and location at www.gasstreetsocial.co.uk

redbrick.me/food

1st May - 19th June 2015

23

Take a look at our recipes on www.redbrick.me/food/recipes

Bitters 'n' Twisted Food Writer Rebekah Coates gives an overview of the amazing venues 'Bitter 'n' Twisted' have to offer Every student loves a quirky place with mouth-watering food and delicious cocktails, and this is exactly what Birmingham ‘Bitters ‘n’ Twisted’ venues offer.

With eight fantastic independent venues, there’s something on offer for everyone. For gin lovers there’s Jekyll and Hyde, the Victorian parlour which prefers jam jars and tea pots to cocktail glasses. Or get a more exotic feel from Tiki Island Bar, voted Birmingham’s Best cocktail bar in 2014.

I tried The Rose Villa Tavern, a pub with branches growing disco balls from the ceiling and a telephone box filled with hay and beer. The California burger was absolutely delicious, filled with BBQ pulled pork and two giant burgers alongside a bucket of crunchy chips.

Bar Estillo Food Writer Georgia Priestley gives her take on the tasty tapas bar located at the Mailbox As a greedy diner I’ve never really liked the idea of tapas. I usually adopt the ethos of Joey from ‘Friends’; food is not for sharing.

However Bar Estilo, located at the Mailbox, changed my views completely.

"If you still haven't been transported to the Costa Del Sol after the tapas you can finish the meal with a refreshing glass of sangria " We ordered a large variety of tapas dishes, all of which were packed full of the flavours of Spain. One of my favourites was the pulled pork, chorizo and black bean wrap served with salsa. The pork was meltingly tender and worked beautifully with the smoky chorizo and refreshing salsa.

I washed my meal down with a couple of incredible cocktails. The Tavern has a great selection of unique drinks to try.

"You can even create your own 'grown up' ice-cream float, choosing your own ice cream, alcohol and mixer" From the Candy Shop menu, I tried a Raspberry Ripple, which is definitely something for any milkshake fans to try with its creamy texture and fruity taste.

I also had the weekly special, a Lemon

The spiced chickpeas were also excellent, elevating the mundane chickpea by combining it with a sweet and spicy tomato sauce and flecks of salty feta. The nachos, mussels, chicken wings and tapas burgers were all also delicious; spicy, salty, sweet and smoky.

They also offer a specialty cocktail Estilo Colada; gold and dark rums blended with coconut and pineapple.

Each of the tapas dishes costs between £3 and £6, so a meal can become quite expensive. I suggest visiting on a weekday lunchtime, when they offer a tapas selection for two or more people for the very reasonable price of £8.95 per person.

Drop, which quickly became my favourite cocktail ever. Sugary sweet and full of zest, I am desperate for it to become a regular on the menu just so I can have it again. For anyone who prefers a beer to a cocktail though, The Rose Villa Tavern also stock a wide range of global beers.

Another Bitters ‘n’ Twisted venue is Bodega, a popular Mexican Cantina just off New Street. I suggest choosing a few plates off the street food menu and sharing, so you can try a bit of everything. Along with a side of ‘batatas fritas’, the most addictive sweet potato fries. The nachos, quesadillas and burritos are all easy to rave about; this restaurant is a must-try for any Mexican foodie.

Bodega also has a great cocktail menu to go with its food: there are seemingly endless

supplies of tequila and rum at Bodega to fuel its varied, South American inspired drinks menu.

Another bonus to all these brilliant Bitters ‘n’ Twisted venues is the loyalty card scheme, giving you a 5% return on purchases across six of the venues. The card is free to sign up to, and gives a great range of places to try in Birmingham. Each place has its own deals throughout the week too, like 20% off food and drink Tuesdays or Wednesdays, 2 for £10 burgers and £4 cocktails. Check out all the Bitters ‘n’ Twisted venues on their website, and follow them on Twitter and Facebook for up to date deals!

You can find more information at www. bittersandtwisted.co.uk.

Four Alternative Bars in Birmingham Joanna Yorke Food Editor

Champagne Bar @ The Cube

Vertu Bar A bar situated in the heart of Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter offers a range of high end spirits, wines and champagnes which can all be enjoyed in the sun on their stylish roof top garden. Perfect for a post exam splurge on a sunny summer’s day.

This champagne bar situated on the 25th floor of the iconic cube building offers 360degree views of Birmingham’s city skyline.

A champagne bar may not be a typical location for a student, but with this stylish bar and rooftop terrace that offers extravagant drink choices and excellent views, it is perfect for a one off splurge and ideal for date nights.

Bar Opus at One Snowhill

Ginger’s Bar

Bar Opus boasts of its comprehensive cocktail list with an emphasis on the classic and quality ingredients used. Located on the piazza of One Snowhill, this place is the ideal sophisticated venue to enjoy some experimental cocktails. The bar even hosts cocktail masterclasses, a perfect way to enjoy your summer with friends

Ginger’s bar is perfect for the drinkers that like their cocktails with a twist. Located in Purnell’s Bistro this bar prides itself on their inventiveness. Taking inspiration from some of their first edition cocktail books dating back to 1923, they aim to wow you with their range of cocktails from a simple refresher to a molecular masterpiece.

24 1st May - 19th June 2015

redbrick.me/lifestyle

Life & Style

Revision Tips:

Budget Beauty Buys

How to Maximise Productivity

Ayshea Baker

With exam season looming over us like a dark cloud, it can be a very stressful time for everyone on campus. Here are Life&Style Editor Giulia Bardelli's top tips to help you through your revision...

Maybelline Colour Drama Lipstick, £4.99

Find the right study technique

Everyone has a different way of learning and taking in their notes, and for some people it takes a long time to find out what their preferred studying method is! Many people find it easier to re-write their notes of the past year, by making q-cards for each subject and sticking them on a wall. Another technique is to teach another person what you are studying, then at the end get them to tell you if they understood what you were explaining! Take a quiz to find out what type of learner you are – visual, auditory, kinaesthetic or a mixture of all three – and tailor your revision accordingly.

Create a study environment

Whether you’re someone who finds they get more work done in complete silence, or with a bit of music, creating the perfect study environment can instantly maximise your productivity!

Life&Style Editor

This lipstick has become a firm favourite with many fashion bloggers online, and it is without a doubt a musthave beauty bargain! Despite it being a duplicate of the pricey MAC lipsticks, this pencil is just as good as it lasts all day on your lips and forever in your make- up bag! Its creamy texture makes this product a great lip balm, containing shea butter and castor seed oil, so you won’t have to worry about dry lips again. Pucker up your lips this spring and indeed all year round, with an array of colours ranging from the popular ‘Nude Perfection’ to the daring ‘Red Essential.’ Which colour will you try first?

Power through in chunks

They say that solidly revising for 50 minutes then taking a 10-minute break is the most efficient study method.

During these 10 minutes it is recommended that you should be doing something physical or creative in order to refresh the brain. Going for a walk outside is a perfect option! Or you could go and make a cup of tea and chat to your housemates, but make sure that you get straight back to work afterwards!

Eat the right foods

This one may seem obvious to some, but by eating the right foods during the revision months you can see an instant and positive change! You will feel more active as well as healthy. Fish, blueberries, nuts and broccoli are just some of the great brain boosting foods, so get down to Aldi now!

Rise early

If you wake up early and have a healthy breakfast, your brain will be more active and also take in more information.

Use this time wisely and sacrifice the lie-ins to make the most of your mornings. Plus the more time you dedicate to working in the morning, the more you’ll be able to enjoy your afternoon with family and friends.

Have a positive attitude

Lastly, don’t stress over your exams! By having a positive attitude towards your studies it will make you feel more at ease and you’ll enjoy revision and exam process a lot more. If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, stop and take 30 minutes to meditate. It’ll help you focus on your breathing and keep your brain sharp and alert. After all, it'll all be over in a few weeks.

Dressing for your shape Life&Style writer Laura-Beth Green dishes out her tips on how to make the most of your body shape.

It can be so difficult to dress for your shape. Not every dress or pair of jeans is going to suit everyone, and with the new Spring/Summer collections arriving, combined with our limited student loans, we need to shop wisely. It doesn’t matter whether you’re an apple, pear, strawberry (sometimes called an inverted triangle), a rectangle or hourglass shape, we’ve gathered our best tips on how to dress to accentuate your best bits whilst not drawing attention to your imperfections. This advice is sure to fit you perfectly!

1. Apples If you have an apple shape, you carry weight round your mid-section without having a welldefined waist. It is therefore best to avoid wardrobe choices that draw attention to this attribute.

The kinds of clothes that will flatter your shape are empire line and longer length tops and bootcut or flared jeans (which is great as flares are in this season!) Wrap style dresses and lower cut necklines (not too low, however!) will draw attention to your face and chest rather than your waist.

2. Pears Pear shapes are bottom heavy, usually with more weight on hips and/or thighs, so it’s important to buy clothes that provide more shape and structure above the waist. Mid-rise jeans (or trousers) will flatter your shape, as will A-line dresses.

Flared skirts are great for drawing focus on your small waist and slimming down your bigger hips or thighs. To brighten up an outfit add a coloured scarf or necklace and avoid any low slung belts that may make your hips look bigger. The key is drawing attention upwards so you don’t get too hung up on your hips!

3. Hourglass Hourglass shapes have a bigger bust and hips but a small waist, creating a lovely curvy figure which is often considered the sexiest shape. For tops and dresses try scoop, sweetheart or V necklines to show off your chest, and try knee length or pencil skirts to work your shape. Wide leg or slim leg jeans are both fine for most hourglass shapes, but slouchy or big pocket jeans are a no-no. Fitted button blazers or cropped jackets will also look amazing for your shape. The key is showing off those curves without shouting about them.

4. Rectangle A rectangle shape is also rather enviable as there is no particular area you want to draw focus away from!.

However, the fairly uniform balanced shape can make you desire a slightly more curvaceous one. Luckily, this is easy to achieve! A-line skirts and skinny jeans will make you appear curvier, as will adding belts to an outfit. Your shape is perfect for pretty or stylish tops; frills, ruffles or bows or racer back vests will look great on you. Avoid any baggy clothing (go for shaped outfits) because you want to accentuate your body shape.

redbrick.me/lifestyle

1st May - 19th June 2015

The 70s Revival

25

Fierce

Life&Style writer Mandeep Heer shows us how to work the 70s look.

The 70s are back, and they’re back in a big way. Hot off the spring/summer 2015 catwalks, retro is definitely the way to go: think Summer of Love meets Woodstock. Some designers opted for a saucy take on the 70s, taking inspiration from the ‘Groupie Girl’ film for a disco glam feel.

Psychedelic prints and towering platforms were seen on the catwalks of Coach and Henry Holland, whilst others such as Dries van Noten and Derek Lam went all out to create the ‘peace-and-love’ hippie look, complete with rainbow colours, tan suede jackets and lightweight fabrics.

If you’re feeling brave, channel your inner Austin Powers and go for bold colours and loud prints. If you prefer a more toned down look, here are some statement pieces to help you subtly stay on trend.

Denim Dungarees With the likes of Alexa Chung, Pixie Lott and Fearne Cotton all embracing the return of the dungarees, we can't wait to get our hands on some too. Add your favourite pair of sunglasses and some pretty pumps for the perfect summer shopping outfit.

The Abercrombie & Fitch Makeover The American brand have had a total re-vamp, ditching the perfectly chiselled models for people who actually look, well, human! As of last week, the company's 'look policy' has been scrapped, and their new dress code is far more refreshing.

Lena Dunham

1. Flares

2. Fringing

3. Platforms

Nothing says 70s quite like flared trousers - add them to your wardrobe and you’re instantly on trend. Flares are in all shapes and styles right now, ranging from flared jeans to printed flared trousers to Palazzo pants, so you’ve got plenty of choice.

Fringing is everywhere! Not just all over the catwalk, but on various clothing and accessories. You can sport fringe tops, jackets, bags, shoes etc., so it’s almost impossible to miss out on this trend.

Complete your latest look with some platform heels. Keep the colours neutral for boho chic or update the look with an edgy snakeskin print.

We Love: This patterned fringe crop top from Topshop screams free-spirited 70s, and is perfect for festival season with your favourite shorts and sunnies.

Topshop, £28

We Love: These leather wedge espadrilles from Zara are pricey, but the tan colour combined with the jute heel is perfect for the bohemian look.

Everyone needs a treat after exam season, so start saving for your pair now!

Zara, £49.99

We Love: These flattering flared trousers from H&M are high-waisted with a groovy but subtle print. Perfect for a summery evening with your friends!

H&M, £24.99

Hidden Gems The Everyman Cinema If you're looking for somewhere that oozes charm and luxury, look no further than the Everyman Cinema. Life&Style writer Daisy Holden gives us the latest on this new venue.

The Everyman Group is a luxury boutique cinema chain, and they’ve just opened a brand new theatre in The Mailbox, Birmingham. This cinema could not be more different than your standard Odeon. Cramped chairs are replaced with comfy velvet sofas and armchairs, and with three screens, plenty of legroom, and sofas complete with their own tables, the cinema screams glamorous old-school Hollywood. Screen One has black and white photographs of Audrey Hepburn on the back wall, amd the sofas are upholstered in grey and black velvet. Screens Two and Three have a more romantic feel, with red and purple velvet armchairs and cushions. Brass lighting and mahogany tables reinforce this continuous old Hollywood theme.

Cheap nachos and slush puppies are not on the menu here.

Handmade burgers and pizzas are on offer in the restaurant, and can be taken through into the cinema screens. The bar offers wine, beer, champagne and cocktails – all of which adds to the exclusive nature that this place oozes. Whilst popcorn is still readily available (it would not be a cinema without it!), the sweet menu also comprises of retro sweets and chocolate, cakes and ice-cream sundaes. As you would expect, ticket prices are slightly more expensive than your standard cinema-chain ticket, averaging £12.50 per person, however you definitely get a special experience for your money. If you’re looking for a special date night, or just a different night out with friends, the Everyman Cinema is the perfect place to try.

When Lena spoke out about her experience of sexual assault last Friday at the Variety's Power of Women event, there weren't many dry eyes left in the room.

The woman is an author, actress, producer, director and screenwriter, and continues to be an inspiration for hardworking women everywhere.

Library Computers Rather like trying to bag a sunbed on holiday, only far less fun. You've got to be up at the crack of dawn if you want even the slightest chance of getting your hands on one of these bad boys.

Election Flyers If I'd wanted this much paper through my letterbox, I would have gone and chopped down a tree. With leaflets spilling through our door at a rate of knots, it'll be a relief when the whole process is finally over!

Claude Littner on The Apprentice The man looks like he eats nails for breakfast! He'll be replacing Alan Sugar's right-hand man Nick Hewer on the next series of the show, and we'll be very surprised if he doesn't make at least one candidate cry within five minutes.

By Bethany Barley Life&Style Editor

Finished

26 1st May - 19th June 2015

redbrick.me/travel

Travel

A bleak future for travel?

Travel writer Jessica Flanagan explores whether recent air disasters will change the face of travel worldwide…

The incomprehensibly sad and tragic accidents that have happened in the last 14 months have shaken the world over and really thrown into question just how safe flying as a mode of transport truly is. Take away the easy option of flying and suddenly we are left with a dwindling chance of seeing the world and all of its stunning corners. But can the recent news reports have any impact on worldwide tourist industries, and will airlines, hotels and governments suffer from this possible decline?

2012 and 2013 each saw two airplane disasters, unlike the unforgivably high number of six in 2014 alone. Whereas 376 were killed within the two previous years together, 2014 accounted for a total of at least 992 deaths due to air disasters. With the continuous development in aviation technology, how can this sudden and unjustifiable increase be explained? Some could be put down to poor weather, others to poorly made decisions on the part of the pilots. However, some have simply been left labelled as unexplained freak accidents.

"2012 and 2013 each saw two airplane disasters, unlike the unforgivably high number of six in 2014 alone."

Horror and suspicion were rife amongst the world on the 8th of March last year when the Malaysia Airlines Flight MH370 disappeared. The story haunted grieving families as well as news networks when experts and officials failed to discover what had happened to this aircraft. The despair was to be relived under 6 months later when the Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17 was brought down in Ukraine.

Suddenly the wound was raw again and the world was left guessing for the second time about how truly safe it was to fly internationally in current times.

The more recent incident took place on the 24th March this year, when all 148 on-board were presumed dead following a crash in the French Alps. This specific disaster sent shock waves across the world; not only because of the tragic number of deaths, which included several young children, but because of the revelations that would appear across news stations in the following days. When stepping onto a plane, you entrust numerous people with different duties; that the customs and baggage people will not put anything dangerous into the storage area, that the cabin crew will look after you well, that the passenger sat behind you won’t kick your seat for the entirety of the journey and also that the pilot and cockpit crew will deliver you to your destination safely.

According to reports, this final wish from those on board Germanwing Airbus A320 could not be fully fulfilled as the co-pilot decided to selfishly end the lives of all on board. A feeling of tragedy, confusion and despair was once again felt worldwide.

So what effect will these recent and inexplicably regular air disasters have on the travel economy? Will seasoned travellers think twice before booking their next excursion to see another part of this beautiful world we live in? Will business people hesitate to jump on a plane to attend meetings

further afield and instead opt for a simpler conference call to discuss the agenda? Will airlines suffer due to the lack of confidence people will no doubt have in this form of transport? And ultimately, will countries see a rise in their citizens choosing to holiday at home?

"So what effect will these recent and inexplicably reuglar air disasters have on the travel economy?"

Although I would like to consider myself a seasoned traveller, I’m afraid it would be an exaggeration of the truth to say that I am filled with confidence and excitement to step on board my next flight in a month’s time. Previously, I wouldn’t have bat an eyelid in regards to the possibility of not successfully reaching my destination safely and in one piece. My main concerns would have been whether the amount of liquids I was carrying exceeded 100ml and which

precious mascara I would ultimately (and grudgingly) have to leave with the customs at the Heathrow airport. Now, the harrowing truth of the last 14 months of air disasters will consume my thoughts upon boarding. Perhaps I am the sceptic amongst the group and am foolish to overthink what have on majority been accidents in this latter period.

Whether sceptical, unnecessary, perturbed or irrational my thoughts are regarding the issue, I’m afraid that all I can do is applause those who do not share my anxiety.

If I am not the only one who has been slightly shaken by recent tragedies and made to think twice about boarding a plane, does this mean we are to see an increase amongst tourism within Britain? Will more be swapping the shores of Sicily and Santorini for St. Ives and Skegness? Hopping

into Dad’s car and ploughing down the M25 will no doubt seem less nerve wracking than jumping onto a vessel that will imminently be cruising at a casual 40,000 feet above sea level. The Instagram snaps may not reach as many likes as the white sandy beaches of a tropical island would have but this surely does not compare to the safe knowledge of settled nerves regarding the chosen mode of transportation.

Or is all of this simply an unnecessary worry? In 2005, the world was witness to a shocking total of 8 plane crashes and since 1998, the least amount of plane crashes in a year has been 2. However, these frightful numbers did not put a pause on our gap years. They did not make us hesitate when Mum and Dad offered up a couple of weeks in Barbados (wishful thinking) or when all of our school friends were going on a ski trip and we didn’t want to miss out.

Maybe all of this anxiety, which has been brewing since the disappearance of Malaysia Airline flight MH370 last March, is all irrational and unfounded. More flights than ever before are departing each day and 2014 saw the record broken for more than 100,000 flights leaving daily. Although the 6 air disasters that happened in 2014 are no less devastating, the number has suddenly become a miniscule probability when considering the millions of flights that would have successfully landed in that same year. I daren’t bring up the topic of fate, however, it seems unreasonable to approach travelling, if not life with the motto of “it could happen to me”. Although the terrible tragedies have been mourned for greatly, I think it would be a sad repercussion for budding travellers to be put off seeing the world as a result.

Perhaps the solution surrounding the problem lies in our choice of airline and their catalogue of planes. The safe haven of a British Airways double-deck Airbus-A380 can surely make even the most frightened flyer forget that they are 40,000 miles up in the air; thanks to the on-board spas, bars and lay-flat beds. These novelties would of course provide distraction rather than guaranteed safe arrival. However, nerves would no doubt be settled in the knowledge that we are soaring thousands of miles above land in more than a budget tin can.

"I daren't bring up the topic of fate, however, it seems unreasonable to approach travelling, if not life, with the motto of 'it could happen to me'."

Ultimately, I believe these types of decisions to be personal ones. The world will not suddenly decide to suspend their interest in travel due to the fact that freak air accidents are being more widely publicised through media outlets. No doubt individuals may have growing fears or anxieties regarding stepping aboard an aircraft, however, I cannot foresee these worries lasting forever or having a damaging effect on the industry. Seeing the world and all of its wonders is one of life’s precious opportunities. I believe we should seize these when they arise and not be consumed and abolished by the rare disasters of recent times.

The 5...

Best European party hotspots Travel Editor Tashaa Naidoo recommends her favourite European destinations for partying this summer.

1

2

3

4

5

Lisbon

Corfu

Barcelona

Berlin

Ibiza

With four major districts to explore, each with their own vibe, you are bound to find the perfect party spot. Also, check out one of Lisbon’s Fado houses, where you can try traditional Portuguese food and listen to live music.

This Greek Island has a pulsating nightlife. With foam parties, beach parties and outdoor discos, it provides the ideal summer break. It also has beautiful beaches perfect for lazing in the sun after a long night of partying.

Barcelona’s animated nightlife is like no other. With huge clubs and bars opening onto the beach, this city’s renowned music scene will not disappoint. There are also plenty of bars around for a more relaxed night of bar hopping.

Whilst Berlin has been criticised for its clubs exclusivity, its nightlife should definitely be experienced as there are plenty to choose from. Some of the best areas include Mitte and Prenzlauer Berg in the eastern part of the city.

Despite being a small island, Ibiza has a range of beach and party resorts to choose from; Playa d’en Bossa, San Antonio and Ibiza town to name a few. All of them boast an energetic nightlife and sandy beaches.

redbrick.me/travel

1st May - 19th June 2015

27

Malta: An island like no other Travel writer Nadhirah Syalin distracts us from revision with Mediterranean beaches and a rich array of the island’s history.

Malta may be one of the smallest countries in the world, but don’t be fooled by its size as the archipelago of five islands in the Mediterranean Sea has a lot to offer. The island boasts a landscape that would make any photography enthusiast drool, with its blend of majestic historical cities and fortresses, beautiful bays and ports, jaw dropping cliffs and quaint villages. Malta’s beauty also extends underwater, to its many renowned diving spots and thriving marine ecosystem.

The mild weather that Malta enjoys makes it an attractive destination all year round. However, if you’d like to enjoy swimming in the Mediterranean Sea, its best to visit later in spring or during the summer so you wouldn’t need to brave the frigid water. However, be prepared for a huge crowd. Malta is accessible from many European countries with affordable RyanAir flights to its international airport.

Alternatively, you can take a catamaran from its neighbouring Italian island of Sicily or if you’re lucky enough to go on a Mediterranean cruise, choose one that stops in Malta.

This makes it a favourite with tourists and locals alike.

"The island boasts a landscape that would make any photography enthusiast drool, with its blend of majestic historical cities, beautiful bays, jaw dropping cliffs and quaint villages."

The island itself is conveniently located and easy to navigate by means of its public buses. You may also be happy to know that as a former British colony, the cars drive on the left side of the road and there wouldn’t be any need to pack adapters as they use the same three pin plugs as the UK. However, be warned that driving in Malta might pose as a challenge to some due to its narrow streets and tight junctions. As you go around the island, you might feel as if you’re walking on a movie set which is why Malta has been frequently used as the backdrop for films, which includes Troy, World War Z and more recently, Captain Phillips.

Historically, Malta has a richly diverse past that has culminated in its unique traditions and culture of today.

Maltese and English are the official languages of the country while Italian is widely spoken. The Maltese language is the only Semitic language written in Latin characters and it also has strong Arabic influence. Malta’s proximity to Italy and its historical past as a British colony have created a hybrid of Mediterranean British-ness in the Maltese daily life. However, before the British colonial era, Malta experienced the diverse rule of the Phoenicians, the Arabs, the Normans, the Knights of St. John and for a short period time, it was occupied by the French. Its strategic central Mediterranean location made it a jewel for conquest, hence giving Malta the signature characteristic of its fortified cities. The country is staunchly Roman Catholic with beautiful churches dotting almost every corner. Malta also plays host to the fourth largest unsupported dome in the world with The Mosta Dome of the town’s parish church.

"Historically, Malta has a richly diverse past that has culminated in its unique traditions and culture of today."

Visiting the different cities, all soaked in history and culture, is like journeying back in time. Valletta, the capital city of Malta, was built by the Knights way back in 1565, making it a certified UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city displays its baroque styled buildings and its defensive bastions impressively. The port by the city is where the humongous cruise liners dock for the day, allowing passengers to explore the many shops and cafes in the city.

While Malta has experienced many rulers, the imprints of the Knights of Malta are the most predominant and cherished by the Maltese people. One of the best-known symbols of Malta is the 8 pointed cross that comes from the legacy of the knights. Before leaving Valletta, don’t forget to go to the Upper Barakka Gardens where you can get a stunning view of the port and The Three Cities. When walking down the streets of Valletta or in fact almost anywhere in Malta, look out for the beautiful traditional Maltese balconies.

"When in Malta, be prepared for a gastronomical adventure as the food will awaken and pamper your taste buds."

The other city that one must visit is Mdina, the silent city. When in Mdina, you’ll feel obliged to maintain the quiet and tranquil atmosphere, as it would seem rude to intrude upon the beauty of the silent city. Stop by the Fontanella café and treat yourself to some tea and cakes while enjoying the beautiful view from the bastions. The sea caverns making up the Blue Grotto is another natural wonder of Malta. Take a boat ride into the caves and observe the different shades of blue reflected in the water.

24 hours in... York

Travel writer Ally Head tells you how the rural city stole her heart.

How to get there...

Being one of the most central points of the North, York is easily accessible by both train and bus. As VisitYork says, “It is undoubtedly one of the most easily accessible cities in the UK”.

What to do...

A city rich in castles, charity shops and cake filled tearooms, York is a wonderful example of traditional England at it’s finest. Be sure not to miss the famous York Castle and its City Walls – such rich heritage gives the town it’s intricacy and is ideal for providing an insight into the country’s vast history. For a more light-hearted day out, head to York Castle Museum, which finds a perfect balance between fact and fun on its fake Victorian streets. Make sure not to miss the famous Farmers Market, happening every Saturday throughout the summer in the main square. The strum of the street performers’ guitars lulling lazily down the bustling lanes will steal your heart.

The Luzzu boats are colourful traditional fishing boats that have a pair of eyes on its bow echoing Malta’s Phoenician ancestry and are particularly abundant in the Marsaxlokk Harbor. Another characteristic of Malta is its usage of limestone as the primary building material for houses. As the country is small, you can visit a lot in a day. For example, dropping by the ruins of ancient Megalithic Temples before enjoying the countryside of Rabat and then heading to the Dingli Cliffs for a magnificent sunset view is perfectly feasible. Sliema is a trendy and vibrant town by the bay that has plenty of shops and cafes scattered around. Meanwhile, Paceville, located not far away, is the main hub for nightlife on the island with its many bars and clubs.

Gozo, the smaller island of the Maltese archipelago is only accessible via ferry from the main island such that you will only pay for your ferry ride on the return journey. On the way to Gozo, you’ll pass by the smaller uninhabited island of Comino, famous for its Blue Lagoon with bright turquoise waters and white sand. A short 20 minutes later, you’ll arrive into the Gozo Ferry Terminal. Gozo is pretty much a more relaxed version of the main island with a more rugged and greener landscape, punctuated by pretty stone farmhouses. It has beautiful bays and beaches for swimming while the Mgarr ix-Xini Bay was made famous by Hollywood power couple, Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie, who used it for their 1982 film, “By The Sea”. It’s also worth to visit The Citadella, a small-fortified city atop a hill to enjoy a great view of Gozo and also to visit the prehistoric temple of gantija.

Where to eat and drink...

Renowned for its cosy tearooms and vibrant café culture, catch York on a sunny day and have a delightful afternoon tea anywhere on the quaint cobbled streets of the Shambles.

Betty’s, founded in 1936, is a favourite with locals and tourists alike. If afternoon tea isn’t your thing, there are a wealth of modern bars decorating the riverfront, perfect for a drink in the sun. In worse weather, opt indoors instead and climb to the top of any of its many taverns for some traditional Northern grub.

Insider’s tip...

Although it may go against your natural holiday instincts, try not to pre-plan too much. Read up on the sights but make your decisions as you reach them; you will only be grateful for the hidden treasures you find. The city is truly at its best when left explored on a whim, popping into whichever café, castle or cobbled street best takes your fancy.

When in Malta, be prepared for a gastronomical adventure as the food will awaken and pamper your taste buds.

The Mediterranean diet enriched with olive oil is not only delicious but healthy as well. Being an island, fresh seafood is widely available. It was also here that I discovered cuisines such as sea urchin and squid ink spaghetti that will turn your mouth black! They also offer an array of delicious local bread and tasty cheese. The Maltese tomato pastes are the best that I have ever tasted, resulting in me lugging back a few cans back to the UK to be eaten with the Maltese ‘galletti’ crackers. Amazingly for a relatively dry country, the locally sourced vegetables and fruits are big and juicy. As Easter has just passed, the Maltese traditional ‘figollas’ (biscuits filled with almond paste) eaten during Easter were still on sale. It is also nice to be in a country that is not swamped with restaurant and café chains as the Maltese frequent local shops. There is also an abundance of choice for souvenirs to choose from, as Malta is known for their Mdina glass, the Maltese lace and its silver filigree.

The old Maltese saying that all Malta has is figs and prickly pears has certainly proven to be untrue, as Malta has a huge range of sightseeing spots. Visiting Malta is like having a compact and wholesome all-in-one holiday.

28 1st May - 19th June 2015

redbrick.me/sport

Sport

Redbrick Sport Hockey It's been another impressive season from the Hockey club as a whole, with the Ladies' sides especially tasting success.

The 1st's were crowned BUCS Champions in the league and cup, while the 2nd's also won their division and next year will face the 3rd's - who secured promotion into the Midlands 1A. The 4th team were runners up in both league and cup campaigns.

Women's Football It was a year of transition for the Women's Football club, with the introduction of a 3rd team and seven new players featuring for the 2nd's.

The 2nd's finished fourth after a tough league campaign and the 3rd's have impressed, after playing well in friendlies throughout the season, and will be playing competitive football next year.

The Men's 1st & 4th sides reached the BUCS Championship semifinal and Conference Cup final respectively. The 2nd and 3rd teams finished third and second in their midlands divisions.

The highlight for the club was the 1st team's exploits in the BUCS Championship cup, where they finished runners up after a narrow defeat to Durham. A great effort from all involved!

Women's American Football

Netball

The Lions' A team enjoyed a sensational season, winning the National Championship for a second successive year. They went unbeaten, winning nine matches along the way, and boasted the best offense and defence, conceding only one touchdown all season!

The B team, in their rookie season, finished an impressive 7th out of 14 teams. The club has doubled in size, with 34 players now involved with the two teams.

The club has gone from strength to strength and aim to compete as the GB representative in the European Club Championships in 2016.

A brilliant campaign for the Netball club saw the 1st team reach the final of the BUCS Trophy, narrowly missing out on gold in a 59-50 defeat to Hertfordshire. They were crowned Midlands 1A division Champions after winning eight games and finished with a goal difference of 90. This meant that they were in the promotion play-offs with a place in the Premier North division up for grabs. They won the semi-final against Leeds 37-26 and beat York 51-41 in the final to complete an excellent season with promotion to the top flight.

The 2nd, 3rd and 4th teams also had strong campaigns and all finished 2nd in their divisions, often competing against 1st teams from other universities.

redbrick.me/sport

1st May - 19th June 2015

29

Winners of Student Publication Association Best University Sports Coverage Award 2015

t's Clubs of the Year Squash

Korfball

Despite being hit with a number of injuries throughout the year, the Squash club enjoyed an extremely successful campaign. Six of sides reached the semi-finals of the BUCS knockout competitions. The Men's 1st's, Women's 1st's and Women's 2nd's all went on to claim gold, while the Men's 2nd's took silver after a close match.

After a huge intake of new members, and with the club now boasting 78 members, the club introduced a 3rd team for the first time.

In the leagues, the Women's 1st's and 2nd's won their divisions with the 2nds going the whole season unbeaten. The Men's 1sts finished 2nd in the top league, while the 2nd's were crowned champions and the 3rd's, who compete in the same division, finished in 4th.

Men's Lacrosse It has been a fantastic year for the Men's Lacrosse 1sts. They have enjoyed a successful season, reaching the final of the BUCS Trophy and accumulating the most points in a season in the side's history.

Their strong league form towards the end of the season helped them finish in 3rd place in the Midlands 1A division, and coincided with their exhilarating cup run. After a thriller of a semi-final against Southampton, which was won 9-6 they took silver in the Trophy final at BUCS Big Wednesday in Loughborough, after losing 7-6 in a tense battle against Northumbria.

In the cup competitions, a total of 64 teams took part, but it was not to be for the 1st team who conceded their BUCS Championship title. The 2nd team performed well. finishing fifth in the Trophy, but it was the newly-formed 3rd team who impressed most by claiming first place in the BUCS Shield.

6 members were selected for the Great Britain student squad, with 3 taking part in the inaugural University World Cup.

Ultimate Frisbee With 80 members, Ultimate Frisbee is another of the University's most popular and growing clubs. This year 10 members have been selected to represent Great Britain ahead of the World Championships in London. The club has a Men's, Women's and Mixed team and each compete in two disciplines: indoor and outdoor.

The club has enjoyed a great deal of success this season with the Men's and Women's sides taking gold and silver respectively in the BUCS Indoor Championship. The mixed side are also current holders of both the Indoor and Outdoor Championship.

30 1st May -19th June 2015

redbrick.me/sport

Sport

Alumna Interview: Caroline Cheese Sports Editor Alex Kronenberg spoke to Caroline Cheese (pictured), Redbrick Sports Editor in 1994/95, on her time at the university and her experiences in the sports journalism industry.

What did you most enjoy about your time in Birmingham?

I promise I haven't been paid to say this but I would say (other than the 'social' side of it, of course) being involved in Redbrick was up there. I certainly was never a natural student, so to be doing something more practical and something that I actually felt driven by was brilliant – plus, I worked with two fellas on the 'sports desk' who made me laugh a lot and were responsible for introducing me to 'The Day Today'. You don't forget things like that in a hurry.

1 1 Caroline Cheese: Former UOB student and BBC Sport Journalist.

significant.

Why did you decide to get involved with Redbrick?

Who have been the greatest influences in your career?

I had a chat with a friend in my first year about this ridiculous dream I had about being a sports journalist and he persuaded me to submit an article. Even though, it was probably the most over-written piece of fluff, the sports editor at the time wasn't put off (or was really desperate).

Tough question. Anyone who gave me a job and took a chance on me. I'm very grateful to them!

Do you have any particular memories from your time as Sports Editor?

My top three interviews were Denise Lewis (before she was famous), Johnny Herbert (when he was an F1 driver so was quite famous), and the referee Roger Milford (who was sort of famous-ish). I was terrified about all of them.

What did you do after graduating?

Went travelling of course! I started at the BBC Sport website in 2001, spent about nine years there, then two years at Associated Press before setting up LiveWire Sport (digital agency delivering consultancy and content services for sport events, broadcasters, rights holders, brands) with four ex-BBC colleagues.

Having worked for outlets such as BBC Sport and the Associated Press, what have been the highlights of you career in journalism so far?

Although I wasn't strictly working as a journalist, I would say London 2012. The Olympics were just an incredible experience – from the opening ceremony to seeing Chris Hoy win his sixth gold to Bradley Wiggins to Michael Phelps to Mo Farah etc etc - and the Paralympics was the first major project that the company I co-founded delivered. A perfect year.

Sports journalism is often considered to be very much a male dominated sectorof the industry, has this affected your own experiences?

It's often considered that – because it is! It has affected my experience of course, but I would say for every negative, there's been a positive.

Do you think the industry has changed much in that respect, since you started out?

Don't think it's changed that much during my own time in the industry to be honest although clearly things have moved on a lot since the 70s/80s. The fact that the question is still being asked is probably

Did your experiences at Redbrick help you in becoming a journalist?

Definitely. I was very lucky in the people I met there. Without them, I don't think I would have found a way in to sports journalism. Sadly, my Quark Express skills are no longer that useful ;) What advice would you give to students wanting to pursue a career in journalism?

Talk to as many people as possible, listen, take advice, start a blog, be active on social media, keep up with innovations/trends.

Oh, and get involved with Redbrick obviously!

And finally, what do you see yourself doing in 10 years time?

Is this a job interview?! Hopefully we will have sold LiveWire Sport for millions.

Continued from p32....

Which do you prefer: Formula E or Formula 1 and why?

They're very different! I think it's unfair to compare them, as they are trying to be two separate things. Formula E is innovative and exciting, and is making important progress in the field of electric cars, but Formula 1 is Formula 1! The history, heritage and prestige cannot be ignored, it's the pinnacle of world motorsport.

Bernie Ecclestone recently mentioned that there should be a separate F1 World Championship for women, would this be a step backwards in terms of equality within Formula 1?

Bernie is talking nonsense. Formula 1 is not a physically limited sport any more.

Maybe in the 1980s when the cars were really demanding to drive physically, but even then there were drivers like Desire Wilson and Lella Lombardi who could more than compete and beat men.

Intra-team battles always come to

UOB's Mannion makes PFA Player of the Year shortlist Will Robey

Sports Editor England Under 19 international and Birmingham City LFC star Aoife Mannion was shortlisted for the PFA Women's Young player of the Year Award, which took place at the Grovesenor House Hotel London, last Sunday.

The defender has been in excellent form this season, having played a prominent role in the Birmingham Lions success, which saw them reach the BUCS Cup Final in Loughborough, losing only narrowly to Durham. Mannion is a mainstay in the Women's Super League One side Birmingham City Ladies, and is nominated alongside her teammate Freda Ayisi for the award. A combative and hard-as-nails defender, Aoife has developed into a fine young player, who has

caught the eye at both club and international level. Having progressed through Aston Villa's youth system, Mannion made a switch to rivals Birmingham in 2013 and was immediately thrown into the limelight, against Finnish side PK-35 Vantaa- her first appearance in the Champions League.

The UOB student has become wellknown for her versatility, being able to function in any position across the back four to great effect, something which is a valuable commodity in the modern game.

Mannion said she was "humbled to be included on a shortlist alongside some great players." As well as stating that she was shocked to find out she had been nominated for the award: "I never imagined that I would be nominated for the award - it really took me by surprise."

Arsenal Youngstar Leah Williamson went on to collect the award.

My Time as a Uni Sports Reporter Tom Dodd

Online Sports Editor It's fair to say that the life of a university sports reporter does have its ups and down. One day, you're standing on the touchline bathed in glorious autumn sunshine, with a full team sheet for both sides, a cracking atmosphere and a helpful and cooperative pair of team coaches. The next, you're standing in the pouring rain, soaked through and having turned up a fraction of a second too late to be able to write down any of the competitors on the field of play. It makes you wonder why you left the sanctuary of your flat or house to come out and give up an afternoon to be the only spectator of a game no one may ever remember anyway. Then, after all that, you have to write a match report too.

I remember standing at the now obsolete Munrow Track Pitch back in September 2011 and watching Birmingham Women take on Durham in a game of football. A game, hardly memorable to most will forever stay with me, as it was the first time I ever had a match report published in a

the forefront, do you think the ROS/ HAM battle will intensify as much as last season?

Honestly, I think Hamilton has beaten Rosberg already. I don't see Rosberg offering anywhere near the level of competition he did last season, Hamilton has raised his game, is high on confidence and sadly in terms of entertainment, I think he will win the championship with ease.

So far, what is the best sporting race/event you have witnessed?

Two stand out. The first was watching at the finish line in Abu Dhabi in 2014 when Lewis Hamilton won the F1 World Championship, that was a very special moment. Also during the Olympics in London I was able to watch Team GB win a gold medal in the cycling.

The atmosphere inside the velodrome when that happened was something I will never forget.

Has Max Verstappen already proved his worth, as a risk? Is he a future world champion in waiting?

newspaper. Durham, for the record, won 3-2 It's all very well and good walking into a sports team meeting, declaring you can write a perfect article on the inner workings on Manchester United, but anyone could claim that. Going out there and writing on Campus sport is more of a skill, because to a certain extent you're finding the story. That's what employers looks for.

My co-commentator for BURN FM for that match against Durham now works for BBC Sport. See, anything can happen..

Employers are big fans of student Journalism, showing that you can pursue a passion outside of your main degree shows willing, dedication, and a hunger to succeed. That's what will set you apart from the rest.

I've had the pleasure of covering and interviewing some of the finest coaches and players throughout my time with Themiss about reporting for Redbrick.and funnily enough, it'll be those days standing in the rain that I'll probably miss the most.

Read the full article at www.redbrick.me/ sports

It's amazing how young Verstappen is. He'd get turned away from Fab! I think he's more than proven he's ready to be in Formula 1, and if he can get in the right car there's no reason he can't be a world champion.

Are Mercedes the strongest team and have they not yet shown how far ahead they are?

They are the strongest team, but Ferrari have made exceptional developments, so we should see a great battle between them this year.

What tips would you give to aspiring sports journalists?

Get out there and keep trying. No one comes to you and says "Hello, would you like to be a journalist?". You have to try and get as much experience as you possibly can, and always try and improve your craft. The moment you think you're at your best is the moment you're furthest away.

Read the full interview at www.redbrick.me/ sports

redbrick.me/sport

1st May - 19th June 2015

Picture of the week

Look out for......

Nicola Kenton's report from the Betway Premier League Darts live from the Barclycard Arena in Birmingham.

Redbrick Sport's coverage of local Triathlon events over the next month or so. Redbrick will have reporters across three different events, witnessing some of the best triathelete's Birmingham has to offer, compete for titles across 3 different forms of Triathlon.

Selco Big Hit This is a call to arms for all you big hitters out there. Selco and Edgbaston CC have teamed up to find the biggest hitters in Cricket's amateur leagues. Regional 'audtions' are being held at cricket clubs across the county, with the winners of these regional heats, invited to the final at Edgbaston, where the counties biggest hitter will be crowned. The winner will receive two tickets to T20 finals day at Edgbaston and a number of other goodies.

George Hopkins' NBA play-off article. highlighing thecontenders for the trophy, as well as the teams who may spring a surprise or two on their rivals.

Rugby 7s Summer Social

The cost for participation is £50 per team (£5 a person), with the final winners obtaining £250 cash in prize money! The entry fee per team includes unique team t-shirts and RFU mementos for each participant.

Captioned by Will Robey Prime Minister David Cameron made a terrible gaffe this week, by mistaking Aston Villa, the club he supposedly supports, for West Ham. Cameron has long proclaimed to be an avid football fan, who follows his club closely. Despite Cameron claiming to have had a 'brainfade', to use a phrase from his vocabulary- thats a load of old 'tosh'. No real football fan forgets which football club he supports, it simply just doesn't happen.

Look out for Will Robey's 'General Election XI' online and see which Politicans make his squad, and those who just fail to make the grade for selection.

Spotlight: Aston Villa FC

CONGRATULATIONS! UOB Water Polo for gaining promotion.

The team has made great strides in their performances this season and they thoroughly deserve their promotion success.

Also to the Women's Netball 1sts, who have won promotion to the Premier North Division following a 51-41 victory over York in the Play-off final. The team have thoroughly deserved the success they have achieved this season, having won promotion and reaching the final of the BUCS Championships in Loghborough. Women's Netball feature as one of our clubs of the season on page 28 and 29.

Want to write for us?

Catch Up: Tim Sherwood's Aston Villa have all but guaranteed their Premier League status this season following a decent run of form, largely thanks to striker Christian Benteke's resurgence. The club will also play Arsenal at Wembley in the FA Cup Final on the 30th May, after defeating Brendan Rodger's Liverpool 2-1 in their recent semi-final.

Captain Fabian Delph scoring the winner.

Look out for Will Robey's match report tomorrow as Aston Villa take on Everton.

Redbrick Sport will be live at Villa Park www.redbrick.me/sports

Email us at: sports@redbrickonline.co.uk

Successfully complete the crossword and you could win a £5 voucher for food at any GO restaurant in University Centre!

Crossword by Safiyyah Gareeboo

Please send a picture of your completed crossword to crossword@redbrick.me, or fill in this form and put your completed crossword in the Redbrick pigeon hole in Student Development.

Name: Email Address: Phone Number:

1. To discover (4) 7. ---- Nights, Aladdin song (7) 8. Negation (3) 9. Large body of water (3) 10. Opposite of odd (4) 12. Not on time (4) 14. Tik ---, 2010 Ke$ha song (3) 15. Plural of ovum (3) 16. Hindu monastry (6) 19. "Whoop whoop it’s the sound of the ------" (6) 20. Tic ---, popular mint sweet (3) 21. To pull a vehicle with a rope or chain (3) 22. Lion’s ----, Asher Roth song (4) 24. Basil, mint and corriander are all types of this (4) 25. Sebastien ---, former athlete and member of the House of Lords (3) 26. Small insect that lives in a hive (3) 27. To change for the better (7) 28. Loch ---- monster (4)

Down

Thanks Alex and Tom Sadly, for two of our Editors. Alex Kronenberg and Tom Dodd, this paper is their last at Redbrick. I would just like to place on record what a pleasure it has been to work with both of them. Alex and Tom have played a major part in Redbrick' Sport's success this year and they will be missed by all at Redbrick Sport next year.

I would just like to wish them all the best in their future ventures. Tom Dodd is heading to train with the Press Association, whilst Alex Kronenberg takes up an Internship with a Sports Media/PR Company.

Cheers for all the great times lads, it's been a good laugh...

The Redbrick Crossword Across

'My Uni Life as a Sports Reporter' Read Tom Dodds full article on his time as a Sports reporter, as he prepares to leave Redbrick Sport and the University of Birmingham. www. redbrick.me/sports

Some of the finest darts players in the world will grace the stage for an evening of live darts. The online content from this event will include postmatch interviews with all the big names, so make sure you take a look.

As the third term drama unfolds, revision assignments and exams. You may require a de-stress on a weekly basis via the UoB Summer Social Touch Rugby 7’s Series.

On the Metchley 3G, from the 6th-27th May every Wednesday night (5-7pm) teams of ten will compete in a round-robin tournament, followed by a final between the top two teams once all the matches have been played.

31

2. Stationary used to take down information (7) 3. ---- and bear it (4) 4. Queen of the party or the disco (4) 5. The beginning of something (5) 6. Vegas card game (9) 11. Period of time (3) 12. Personal or emotional form of poetry (5) 13. Of or relating to government and rule (9) 17. Type of eclipse (5) 18. 5 o’clock shadow (7) 23. Wrong, amiss (4) 24. To repair something in a clever way or to chop (4)

Will Robey Sports Editor

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32 1st May - 19th June 2015

redbrick.me/sport

Sport

Winners of Student Publication Association Best University Sports Coverage Award 2015

Redbrick Sport wins SPA Best University Sports Coverage

Alumnus Interview: Jack Nicholls

Redbrick's sport editors and writers are recognised for their outstanding coverage at the Student Publication Association (SPA) awards. the evening, stating 'It was great for

James Phillips

"It was great for the efforts of all our reporters to be recognised with this national award"

Redbrick Editor

The award ceremony was held at the University of Southampton Students' Union on April 11th, with 12 awards being presented. There were 289 nominations across 12 different categories, with Redbrick being successful in the Best University Sports Coverage.

A judge from the Football Association (FA), who chose the winner for the award, said Redbrick Sport 'had some amazing coverage of their university sports and BUCS fixtures. Their

"They [Redbrick] managed to lead the reader in to the experience you can only get at university sports fixtures and...managed to reach new levels of engagement." accounts of the fixtures were detailed and full of content that engaged the audience in to thinking they were actually at the game for which many students may have been the case.

They continued, 'They managed to lead the reader in to the experience you can only get at university sports fixtures and therefore Redbrick managed to reach new levels of engagement. In addition to this they used their website design, use of straplines and pull out quotes to make the coverage more readable and entertaining for the audience.

Redbrick Sport Editor, Alex Kronenberg, picked up the award on

SPA Award Winners 2015 Best Feature Winner – Jason Roberts, Quench

Best Student Photographer Winner – Daniel John, Inquire

Best Interview Winner – Lauren Boyd – Gair Rhydd

Best Design (Magazine) Winner – Impact, University of Nottingham

Best News Story Winner – Sarah Manavis and Thurston Smalley, The Student

Best Design (Newspaper) Winner – ROAR News, Kings College London

Best Entertainment Piece Winner – Harry Lawson, ROAR News

Best Website Winner – ROAR News, Kings College London

Best Use of Digital Media Winner – Epigram, University of Bristol

Outstanding Commitment Winner – Michael O’ConnellDavidson, Gair Rhydd

Best University Sports Coverage Winner – Redbrick, University of Birmingham

Best Publication Winner – ROAR News, Kings College London

the efforts of all our reporters to be recognised with this national award.

We tried this year to focus more on the university and the various UBSport clubs and teams which provide such a high standard for us to cover, so it's nice to see that someone thought we did it well!'

Reflecting on the award, Sports Editor Will Robey said: "Winning this award is a fantastic achievement.

Everyone at Redbrick Sport has given their utmost to deliver high quality coverage across a variety of media platforms. We will endeavour to produce the same high quality coverage next year, continuing to use the social media platforms to broaden the readership of Redbrick Sport and Redbrick as a whole".

Redbrick was also shortlisted for four other awards that evening: Best Interview, Best Website, Best Publication, and Outstanding Individual Contribution for Editor, James Phillips.

Nicola Kenton Sports Writer

Jack Nicholls is not a name you might know, but if you've ever listened to Formula 1 on Radio 5 Live then you might just have heard his voice.

Nicholls is a sports commentator who covers many motorsport events including, Formula 1, Formula E - as well as the XCAT Powerboat World Series. He is also a University of Birmingham alumnus and took some time out of his busy schedule to answer some questions about UoB, his career, motorsport, and Formula 1 in 2015.

What degree did you do at UoB and how did this help you in your career?

I did English and Drama at UoB. I genuinely think it did help me, particularly the drama element. Commentary is all about storytelling, trying to give the action we are seeing context and ideally an overreaching story arc. I think by studying some of the best playwrights in history, it helped me to learn more about what makes good stories and how to tell them. Also from a technical point of view, I learnt how to control my voice and breathing which is really useful when broadcasting, especially for long periods of time.

What was your career path after uni? Did you go straight into journalism?

I had started my career at uni. I was doing some voiceovers in Birmingham, and most weekends would be driving to a race track somewhere in the country to gain experience and on some occasions do paid work. Fortunately in my final year I started to make good progress, so was able to leave uni and go full time into commentary. I was offered a big job covering the FIA GT1 World Championship in China, which I decided was too good an opportunity to miss.

I don't necessarily recommend doing that, but that was my first time working for the people who would eventually employ me for Formula E...

Student Publication Association

Continues on p. 30...