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3rd - 30th May 2013 Vol. 77. Issue 1431. www.redbrick.me

Staﬀ and students protest over staﬀ redundancies Best Dressed at Coachella 2013 Susie Dickey Life & Style // Page 26

Approximately 150 people gathered outside the main library on Wednesday to protest in support of the 114 cleaning and hospitality staff at risk of redundancy or deterioration in the terms of their contract. News // Page 3

'We are seeing people who are the lowest paid at the university and the most vulnerable being completely screwed over by our management'

Are audience funded films justifiable? Jonathan Fagg Film // Page 21

Eat Your Way To Exam Success Millie Walker Food // Page 23

Thatcher: Etiquette in Death? William Murray Comment // Page 6

VPDR cleared of all charges Following concerns over proxy vote mishandling VPDR Leander Jones is cleared by investigation.

Following the conclusion of the investigation into the Guild of Students’ Vice President (Democracy & Resources) Leander Jones’ involvement in the mishandling of proxy votes in the General Meeting, no evidence of wrongdoing was found and no action was taken against him. This marks the end of a two month investigation into Jones' involvement in the alleged mishandling of proxy votes. The allegations came after facebook comments were made public which suggested that some proxy votes for the Guild's General

Meeting in January, which was later suspended. A subsequent investigation into the proxy votes concluded that the system in place was 'insecure'. A second General Meeting was also cancelled after it emerged that many members of the Guild hadn't recieved notice, as per the General Meeting has now been rearranged for a third time and will be held on June 4th. Jones recently stated in his official sabbatical officer blog that he was ‘confident that there had been no fraud.' Continues on page 3

2 | 3rd - 30th May 2013 Compiled by

Zahra Damji

@RedbrickNews

@zahra_damji

Weather by

Beth Clarke @beth__clarke

Hannah Findley @HannahDFindley

AMERICA

MIDDLE EAST

Obama vows to shut Guantanamo Bay

Three soldiers dead in Afghanistan

Following Pyongyang's threat to scrap the Korean War armistice on 11 March, South Korea has warned it will respond to any provocation from the North. Army General Kim Yong-Hyun promised 'resolute retaliations' if South Korean lives were threatened.

SOUTH AFRICA

Charities criticise cuts to South African Aid MANCHESTER

BIRMINGHAM

Two hospitalised after ﬁ reworks box explodes

Woman injured in Birmingham shooting

12 noon Saturday

A 47yr old woman received a head wound, caused by shattered glass after a shooting around Guild Close, Ladywood at around 3am Tuesday. Det Ch Insp Simon Wallis said it could be connected to another incident earlier in the evening.

STORY OF THE WEEK

Bill Rouche arrrested over allegations of rape Coronation Street actor Bill Rouche has been arrested over a rape alligation of a 15 year old girl in the 1960's. In a statement Lanchashire constabulary said the offence alleged to have taken place between April and July 1967.

WEATHER

Bangladesh

High temperatures predicted for Birmingham

Bangladesh death toll passes 400

Rain early on Saturday will break into patchy sunshine with highs of 13°c. Sunday will see bright, breezy weather reaching 15°c by midafternoon. Next week the fine weather continues with plenty of sunshine and highs of up to 18°c, although light winds persist.

Following the collapse of a building in Bangladesh last week that contained garment factories, the death toll has now passed 400 according to officials. At least 149 people are still missing beneath the remains of the eightstorey building.

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Local Council Elections taking place

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www.redbrick.me/news | 3

Guild of Students. VPDR cleared of all charges in proxy vote mishandling investigation '...a lot of students have frankly have given me a very very hard time and its made my job difﬁcult. I considered resigning at one point just because of how much stress I was under.'

Beth Clarke News Editor

@beth__clarke

Continued from front page. 'I appreciate the concern many students had, and the reasons for holding an investigation in the first place’. He further blamed student media for sensationalising the investigation and exaggerating his involvement. Speaking to Redbrick, Jones commented that it ‘has been quite a troubling time for me in the sense that, not only do people seem to assume guilt when there isn’t really any evidence, but a lot of students have frankly have given me a very very hard time and its made my job difficult. I considered resigning at one point just because of how much stress I was under.’ He blamed not ‘following procedure properly’ as the cause of the lengthy investigation. This has come after a blogging clash be-

Ashley Kirk News Editor

Students complain over GradBall queue

tween the current VPDR Jones and current Guild of Students' President David Franklin. Jones has previously suggested that the drawn-out investigation into him led to him not being allowed to take up the chairmanship of the Guild's Elections Committee. In an earlier blog post titled ‘Incompetence and now deceit’, he stated 'I was repeatedly told by DF that I would hear shortly about a new investigation... Meanwhile I was aware that decisions were being made on the Elections Committee... that I should be chairing.' However, Franklin responded to the comments with his own blog post, ‘Incompetence and Deceit?’, saying ' To be clear, deciding whether or not to launch a disciplinary process was also not something I had control over. Neither was it “a threat”.' He also said of the investigation process that 'the initial investigation following the GM was into the proxy vote system only. This was something that has been clear for a long time.'

Previously, tickets went on sale at 9am in @AshleyKirk92 the morning, with queues forming in the

Many students have complained about the queue for GradBall tickets, a necessary process for getting tickets for the popular event. The complaints centred on the fact that it coincided with the revision period, using up time in which students could have been revising for their final exams. Prospective graduates tweeted under the hashtag #GradBallQ to express their frustration over the long queue, which was reported to stretch from the Guild of Students building to the South Gate. The queue has sparked calls for greater organisation of the yearly process, and many have called for the Guild of Students to set up a system for people to purchase their tickets online. Another source of anger was the fact that students are allowed to invite guests, which takes up tickets that could potentially go to UoB students. Responding to the queue, Guild President David Franklin said, ' Last year, we changed the timing for ticket sales to ensure tickets go on sale at 5pm when all exams and revision lectures have finished.

early morning. We sell tickets at the start of the 3rd term in order to avoid queuing in colder weather at the end of march and also to ensure that with loans having only just come in, all those who want to attend gradball can easily budget for tickets. Whilst we understand there are issues around queuing, we managed to serve everyone who queued last Friday, and all students within the queue were able to purchase a VIP (Dinner) or Ball (AfterDinner) ticket within one hour of the advertised on sale time.” 'Tickets were not sold online this year primarily because online selling may result in some students not being able to purchase tickets and the site not being able to guarantee that friendship groups secure tickets if not purchased together. Students would also be subject to booking fees on transactions for dinner and after dinner tickets – which would add to the overall ticket price. There are also concerns that the Guild’s existing ticket site would be unable to deal with the high level of traffic that these sales would attract, and in light of this, systems and functionality are being reviewed. '

Campus Protest. Campus protest over proposed staﬀ contract changes Zak Bentley Reporter

@ZBentley1

A protest was held outside the main library on Wednesday in response to proposed changes being made to the contracts of support staff at the University. It is claimed that as many as 114 cleaning and hospitality staff may be at risk of redundancy or changes to their contracts of employement. The protest brought together, for the first time, the groups UNISON, UNITE, and GMB, as supported by Birmingham UCU and Defend Education Birmingham. Around 150 staff, students and union officials turned out for the protest, which was held outside the library. The protest was led by UNISON Secretary Matt Raine who gave an address about the rights of those workers under threat from annualised hours, some of whom might be moved into any 5 in 7 day contracts. Raine asked the protestors, ‘Tell me, how a woman with kids, who has got to pick her kids up from school at 3:15, can work on that basis? They can’t and it’s absolutely wrong.’ He argued that some support staff were ‘loyally being flexible, loyally doing overtime, loyally doing everything the boss wants them to do and are told they are being made

redundant. That to me, is not on.’ In his public speech, he spoke about a meeting with the University, but stating that 'we've got to get into the details of it yet'. At the meeting, he claimed, the University offered voluntary redundancies instead of the previously suggested compulsory redundancies. It was also suggested that a one year salary protection was offered for night cleaners when they are moved to a day shift, and that health tests will no longer be carried out on current cleaning staff. Furthermore, it was claimed that the University has agreed to exclude roughly 180 out of the 247 cleaning staff out of the 5 in 7 day contracts proposal. Raine told Redbrick that ‘we have already achieved significant progress this week and if we keep up the pressure, we can get a deal that supports all our members.' Hattie Craig, the incoming Vice-President (Education), addressed the protesters and spoke to Redbrick afterwards saying ‘This is an incredibly important issue. We are seeing people who are the lowest paid at the university and the most vulnerable being completely screwed over by our management which earn an extortionate amount of money. This will affect students as well and have a detrimental effect to everyone involved.’ She added that she definitely saw the pro-

test as a success, believing that the University thought there would be little opposition. Simon Furse, the current VPE, told Redbrick ‘there is recognition amongst students that the interests are joined. As students we want services to be provided well and want support staff to feel better about their work.’ A spokesman from the University said in response, 'The recent threatening statement by Birmingham Defend Education is inaccurate and misleading. The proposed days of action to target the University of Birmingham’s summer undergraduate Open Days are unjustified and counterproductive. Action which damages Open Days will damage the University. Open Days are important events that underpin our efforts to recruit undergraduate students. Reaching our student number targets is an important part of ensuring our financial stability. These Open Days also provide significant employment opportunities for current students. 'The University has recently opened consultations with groups of staff in Hospitality and Accommodation Services (HAS) and is engaged in positive and continuing discussions with support staff Unions. The University has listened to and responded to the major concerns raised by the Union representatives and has agreed a mutually acceptable way

forward. We are committed to continuing to work with the Union representatives through the consultation period. 'The consultations are regarding proposed changes to working patterns with groups of staff who work in departments that deliver a frontline service outside of normal office hours. The proposed changes are to ensure that the working patterns and staffing structures are those necessary to ensure the most efficient and effective service delivery for our students, visitors and staff. They will also bring us in to line with common working practices at other universities and competitors in these areas. 'The University of Birmingham is committed to paying a competitive wage to all our staff. Since 2008, when the University’s pay award to support staff was the same as that paid nationally, local pay awards have consistently been higher than those paid nationally. Our lowest rate on band 100 has recently been increased to £7.37 an hour, backdated to 1 August 2012, well in excess of the national minimum wage (currently £6.19 per hour). We have also removed the two lowest spinal points on the Band 100 pay scale. The 2013 pay round is also due to start about now with a view to a further increase for our support staff.'

4 | 3rd - 30th May 2013

Selly Oak. Birmingham Alumnus Life Sciences Campus Redevelopment in Apprentice 2013

Ashley Kirk News Editor

Izi Hicks News Editor

@izihicks

On 22nd April, the Cabinet approved plans for the Life Sciences Campus Redevelopment on the former Battery Park site in Selly Oak. It is expected that the campus, located close to both the Queen Elizabeth Hospital and the University of Birmingham, will attract new and existing companies in the pharmaceutical, life sciences and health sectors. The proposals are part of a wider canal-side development and regeneration of the Battery Park, set to include a superstore, up to 20 shops, bars, restaurants and student flats. Councillor Ian Ward, Deputy Leader of Birmingham City Council, said ‘It is expected that the campus will provide up to 2,400 jobs on site and gener-

ate a turnover of up to £243 million, in addition to bringing back to life a site that has been left vacant for decades.’ Despite the public concerns over the redevelopment plans being voiced in March, many businesses in the local community are undisputed in their opinions of the life sciences campus as an opportunity to boost growth in the life sciences sector. The work of both the University of Birmingham and the University of Warwick has already played a role in boosting the city’s involvement in the life sciences sector, which has grown by 45 per cent since 2005. Land Securities Project Director, Neil Carron commented, ‘We are pleased to be working with the council to deliver a high-quality, mixed-use development that will unlock wider economic benefits for Birmingham.’

Residents call for bridge clean up

@AshleyKirk92

Tim Stillwell, University of Birmingham alumnus and founder of the Burrito Van company, has recently been announced as a contestant on this year's series of The Apprentice. The 23-year-old graduate started his catering business whilst studying in his year of his International Business degree. He did so with the help of the University's Enterprise Scholarship Programme, which helps kick-start its students' business ideas. Tim will join 15 other contestants, competing for an investment of £250,000 from Lord Sugar, to help their businesses. Tim described himself as 'extremely motivated by money', whilst going on to say that he 'risks annoying people'. Whilst statements are a breach of his contract with the programme, the young entrepreneur did comment that 'it is going to be really interesting to watch the show and how they edit me'. Tim's inspiration for the Mexican food company began three years ago when he lived and worked in Mexico. Determined to bring a taste of Mexico back to the UK, he set up ‘Burrito Kitchen’ serving fast, fresh Mexican food from a catering trailer on the University's Edgbaston campus. Due to the success of the company, it is soon to launch its first permanent outlet into Eat Central at Westfield shopping centre Merry Hill. Tim commented that, ‘Westfield Merry Hill is a unique opportunity for us, a chance to establish the business in one of the best known shopping centres in the UK. The competition from the global food brands is fierce. However, we believe we offer a completely different, fresh approach to quality fast food.’ At this early stage of the competition, the Mirror is already calling Tim the man with the best odds, at 5/1.

Waterstones staﬀ uncertainty continues Patrick McGhee News Editor

Charlotte Wilson

Jasmine Northover Reporter

@jasminesarah14

Local residents, led by Birmingham-man Tom Poole, have launched an appeal to repaint the Selly Oak bridge because ‘it has looked really bad for over a year.’ Poole has argued that the bridge is ‘one of the first you see as you come down on the bus to Selly Oak.’ ‘They revamped the station just down the track and left the bridge looking like this. They painted it up really nice some time back, then the kids sprayed their tags all over it.’ He has further stated on Twitter that ‘Network snail don’t seem to be willing or able to sort it.’ Network Rail have responded that they are in ‘active discussion with Birmingham City Council to arrange for a permanent solution to prevent and

@wilsonscribbles

remove the existing graffiti on the railway bridge’. However, a spokesperson added that ‘to remove the graffiti requires a road closure to allow the bridge to be painted with special anti-graffiti paint. We spend more than £3.5m a year removing graffiti – money which could be better spent improving the railway.' Selly Oak Councillor, Karen McCarthy (from the Labour and Co-operative party) also responded, saying ‘My understanding is that Network Rail would paint the bridge, but only one flat colour. The local community want the signwriting restored.’ She further said ‘I’m still hopeful we can find an answer which works to enhance the Bristol Road. I’m also aware that local police have made progress with tracking down those responsible for graffiti across South Birmingham through sharing information between teams.’

@patricksmcg

The Waterstones branch on campus will remain open until the end of May despite staff being told that the store would be closing on Friday 26th April. Speaking to Redbrick, staff at the store said that they received a telephone call at 10am from the Waterstones head office on the day the branch was due to close informing them that it would have to remain open for a further month. One staff member told Redbrick that she was forced to cancel a holiday she had planned in order to continuing working at the branch, which has suffered a drop in custom this year. Staff have stated that the store's stock is being reduced over the next month, adding that they will not be ordering new stock in bulk as it would not arrive quickly enough during the exam period. Employees have said that they can still carry out customer orders and that it should take up to 48 hours for requested books to become available in the store.

www.redbrick.me/news | 5

Campus.

Most self made millionaires from Birmingham

Zak Bentley Reporter

@ZBentley1

A recent study has found that the University of Birmingham produces the largest proportion of selfmade millionaires in the country, generating about 68 millionaires with an average fortune of £69m. 84% of those have made their own money rather than receiving inheritance, the largest percentage in the UK. These include Chris Tarrant, the famed host of Who Wants to be a Millionaire?, as well as David Gill, Chief Executive of Manchester United and a graduate of the Business School. The study, carried out by Wealth-X, an ultra high net-worth research company, also placed the University of Birmingham at 10th in the overall millionaire graduate list, regardless of background. Oxford and Cambridge came first and second respectively, although Cambridge was found to have produced the most billionaires. The study was calculated by counting the number of students from each university known to be worth at least £20m. Professor Simon Collinson, Dean of the Birmingham Business School told Redbrick, ‘I think this reflects the Business School’s excellent track record for research and teaching in the area of entrepreneurship and the emphasis across all our programmes on practical business skills. Students develop the capabilities to assess new business opportunities and the ambition to respond to them by starting new ventures’. He further stated ‘we work with other parts of the University to connect business skills with engineering, medicine and other specialist programmes to encourage all students to think about turning their ideas into new business ventures.’

University league table positions goes up

Donations from University Alumni increased

Patrick McGhee

Rachel Gauntley

News Editor

@patricksmcg

The University of Birmingham has been ranked 11th in the Times Higher Education Student Experience Survey 2013 and 17th in The Complete University Guide for 2014. A statement on the University of Birmingham's website said, 'These latest league table results further strengthen Birmingham’s position as a top 20 university and reflect its recent performance in other highly regarded league tables, such as the Sunday Times University Guide 2013, which ranked the University in 13th place overall.' The University added that the league table ranked 17 of the University's 48 subjects in the top ten, with a further two being ranked in first place. The statement went on to say that, 'Areas particularly highlighted in the latest league tables include the excellent student experience and the quality of the courses available.' Responding to the news, Vice-Chancellor Professor David Eastwood said, 'I am delighted with our latest league table performances which reflect our ambition to become a truly exceptional university. As well as our focus on research excellence, we are committed to delivering a first-class experience for our students in every aspect of their university life; from exemplary teaching and sector-leading careers support, to outstanding facilities and a vibrant social life. Whilst we are clearly heading in the right direction, in a highly competitive market it is vital that we remain focused on our ambition and continue to build on our successes.'

Reporter

Donations and gifts from alumni to the University of Birmingham have increased by 50% in the past year. This corresponds to a nation-wide trend of increased donations from university alumni. 170,000 alumni and 3,000 non- alumni donors made donations last year. The Director of Development , Alumni and Business Engagement, Nick Blinco has said that he is ‘incredibly grateful’ for the altruism of those who have donated to the University and that these gifts are ‘making a real difference.’ In the annual Ross-CASE survey, a report which compiles data on philanthropic giving in Britain, it was found that UK universities received £774 billion in the period between 2011-2012. This was a rise of 14% on the previous year. The universities’ target is to reach £160m in donations; of which £121m has already been raised. This has been equated to 338 scholarships for students, has improved breast cancer survival ratings by 30%, has funded a drug trial for the treatment of Africa’s most common childhood cancer and funded the Bramall Music Building.

6 | 3rd May - 30th May 2013 @RedbrickComment

Thatcher: Etiquette in Death? 13 October 1925 – 8 April 2013

Monday 8th of April 2013 marked the death of the first female Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher. Baroness Thatcher caused enough argument and controversy when she was alive, so it was only fitting that her death, at the age of 87, would lead to the same. As I was born in 1992, two years after Thatcher’s resignation as Conservative party leader, following her eleven and a half years in office, I do not claim to understand or comprehend first-hand the experience of Thatcherism in the 1980s. However what I am aware of, and feel I am entitled to comment on, is the modern impact and legacy of Thatcher, giving me some legitimacy to comment on her death. Looking at the reaction itself, there was no better place in 2013 to go, than Twitter. Such as the death of Michael Jackson, and relative to previous ‘first to post’ moments this year such as the election of Pope Francis and re-election of Barack Obama; in this new frenzied age of social media, Thatcher went viral. As friends sought to be the first to announce the news, Twitter reported more than one million mentions of #Thatcher in the first four hours following her death. Shifting from the informal to the most formal of domains, current Prime Minister David Cameron recalled Parliament in a tribute to his former idol. The commons was packed for up to almost a full day, as MPs were encouraged to voice their tributes. However in the wake of the new public debate, there

‘The idea that all politicians ought to be proclaimed as saints upon death ... seems to be a paradox in itself’ was one theme that was central to the reaction. This was the overwhelming taboo ‘not to speak ill of the dead’. Within hours one of the most common tweets, began with “whatever you thought about her...” For me it seemed at one point the twittersphere was full more of people looking out to tell people off, rather than mourn themselves. In the Commons much was the

same, as many of Thatcher’s critics were heckled to “sit down!” and “have some respect!” However is this misplaced? Indeed every death is a

‘the links between Thatcherism and the current banking culture are clearly visible’ tragedy, and in no way do I condone the cruel ‘Thatcher parties’ and tweets such as ‘#dingdongthewitchisdead’ for what can be in the most human terms described as the death of a mother, and a grandmother. This aside, what needs to be readdressed is the misapplication of what constitutes as ‘death etiquette’. When followed in the wrong sense, the demand for ultimate respect is misguided and dangerous. Discourse in the public domain should take on a different protocol, and living in democratic society, the idea that all politicians ought to be proclaimed as saints upon death, omitting their failures seems to be a paradox in itself. The reason I take issue with this taboo, the etiquette of ‘silence’, is simply because on the other side, the admiration is not silent. The constant overstating and over glorification of any politician’s achievements, not just Thatcher’s in the wake of death, at the expense and avoidance of their failures, is not only inaccurate; it falsifies history and looks to distort public perception. One of the more memorable quotes in the wake of Thatcher’s death is that she was “the woman who saved Britain.” Spiralling into deep and deeper decline at the end of the 1970s, Thatcher’s Britain in the end was a richer Britain, but in what sense? Richer at the top of society, it would be true to say at the bottom, things got worse. Unemployment and child poverty were seen to triple under the Thatcher government, as thousands were turned out of their jobs and onto the streets. The entreprenurial society, the competitive society it seemed, lacked any form of compassion, as efficiency simply does not have any time for sympathy - it gets in the way of profit. Thatcher’s success came mostly from lashing out at others and certainly the ‘Iron Lady’s’ politics of

conviction took no prisoners. Equality was dismissed as unrealistic and impractical, the unemployed were denounced as lazy, homosexuals dehumanized under Article 28 and even Nelson Mandela was condemned as a terrorist. Instead former vices of greed and selfishness were heralded as virtues and as ambitious. No doubt today, the links between Thatcherism and the current banking culture are clearly visible. Most importantly, the spiritual attacks Thatcher began on human nature were an insult to anyone who did believe in society. In summary she may have increased the net value of the country, but at the expense of social breakdown. In 1979, the journey from being the child of a grocer to Downing Street is an unlikely one, particularly when that child is a daughter. Whilst Thatcher may be entitled to her own legacy as an undefeated politician, in death she should be treated with humanity, but acknowledged as a person who failed to show or see any humanity herself. “She measured the price of everything and the value of nothing” (Tony Benn).

William Murray @willjanner Do you agree? Let us know online: www.redbrick.me/comment

www.redbrick.me/comment | 7

Starvation versus Detention James Phillips explores the continued detention of terrorism

suspects in the notorious Cuban prison, Guantanamo Bay The strongest prisoner rebellion at the United States’ detention camp only serves a reminder of the truly horrific side effects of the War on Terror. Having accepted that the prison is too much to bear, over one hundred of the one hundred and sixty six prisoners are taking part in a hunger strike with many now being force-fed. The strike has grown over the previous month to become the biggest prisoner protest since the detention camp’s establishment in 2002 and it is rightly capturing the attention of citizens across the globe. It is far from the first time that we have heard of the alleged human rights abuses of prisoners at the camp. Yet, unfortunately, the fluid world easily disposes of the many stories that make our hearts ache; just think of how long it was until you forgot about Kony 2012 and you’ll realise that it won’t be long before this story disappears from the mainstream media and we return to our blissful lives, unaware of any further developments at the prison. The protesting prisoners, whether intentionally or not, are highlighting the alleged injustices that are being committed; detention without trial, torture, poor living conditions and now being force-fed against their will. To these people, it would appear that a slow death is far better than living in the arrangements given to them; I don’t blame them. To be isolated from your life for over a decade without having been called guilty or innocent is a life of torture. Some have already committed or attempted to commit suicide. But when the camp will close is unknown. Despite Obama’s 2009 inaugaration pledge to close the camp within a year, four years on, the camp remains open, the prisoners remain detained and the politicians remain reluctant. Congress has voted again and again against

closing it in. Yet, this week, Obama has been coerced into releasing a fresh statement of his determination to close the prison even though his power to do so is essentially non-existent without the backing of the two political houses. Perhaps most shocking of all is the profile of the detainees. Too large a number were teenagers when captured and have spent their transformation into adults in the horrible conditions of the camp, held despite no court declaring them guilty. Barack Obama claims it “is inefficient, it hurts us in terms of our international standing, it lessens co-operation with our allies on counterterrorism efforts, it is a recruitment tool for extremists, it needs to be closed.” I call it inhumane, abusive and unjustified; it should never have been opened. The Human Rights Act that we take for granted in the United Kingdom is unfortunately not global. The extradition agreements in place between the United Kingdom and the United States are luxurious compared to the forceful abduction of these terrorist suspects. Our prisoners don’t have the vote; these prisoners don’t have lives. Mainstream media continues their focus on the War on Terror with the atrocities committed in Iraq and Afghanistan whilst Guantanamo Bay continues to be ignored. With little pressure on their backs, Guantanamo Bay will continue operating, the United States congress will ignore their consciences and the torture will not cease. There’s a reason the camp is in Cuba and not on United States mainland.

@MisterJames_

8 | 3rd May - 30th May 2013

Goodbye Page Three? As the 'No More Page Three' campaign gathers momentum, Sophie Tollet explores how it really affects everyone.

I know we’ve been over and over the topic of press freedom, but I’d just like to chip in for a moment and mention Page Three. For most people, the topless girls splashed daily over the third page of The Sun are merely peripheral; the majority of the population don’t read The Sun. But the way I see it, the presence of what is basically pornography right inside the cover of our largest selling newspaper does affect us - all of us - on a daily basis. I mean, Page Three is really the objectification of women in its most basic form. Not only does it objectify women, but it displays young girls to suggest they are sexually available. How can we as a society expect the numbers of domestic violence and sexual assaults to go down when The Sun continues to perpetuate this idea? The girls on Page Three are there just to be looked at, so we are told this is all women are good for. And it doesn’t stop there: the ‘News in Briefs’ also offered, where the girl offers her opinions on the day’s news is, if anything, even more insulting and degrading. It simultaneously makes fun of and perpetuates the idea of the girl as a brainless, topless sex object. And it’s not only to men that this message is spread; Page Three constantly reinforces to both women and children that women exist only to please the voyeuristic gaze of men.

And this really is my main problem with Page Three. You could argue that it’s no worse than magazines like Zoo or Nuts. You could say that we all have instant access to pictures of naked women online, so publishing them in The Sun really isn’t that bad. You could even point out that if you don’t want to see the topless pictures then you shouldn’t buy The Sun. But people do buy it: it sits in roughly 2,614,725 living rooms each day. And it’s because The Sun is a mainstream newspaper, and because it’s seen by so many people that it’s a different issue entirely. Pornography has been placed alongside the news and the football results in The Sun for over 40 years. The existence of pornography is one thing, but that we are constantly surrounded by it is another. In fact, not only are we constantly surrounded by it but The Sun actually suggests that it’s newsworthy. Ultimately The Sun exists to sell itself, and Rupert Murdoch et al. clearly think Page Three helps this. But if the Leveson Enquiry has showed us anything, it’s that journalism as an industry needs to take a serious look at its ethics, and maybe – just maybe – national publications like The Sun could start taking a certain amount of responsibility for what they are printing. Indeed, it seems the time might have come for the end of Page Three. The online petition titled ‘No More Page Three’ has been signed by 75 000 people, and re-

You Are What You Wear?

Julia Bayer argues that women are too often judged by their fashion sense

Off the top of my head, I can name about five award ceremonies we see each year amongst the celebrity population; The Emmys, The Baftas, The Oscars, The Cannes film festival and well the list goes on. There seems to be a new ceremony every week if I’m honest. But there’s something that has always baffled me: These women go to these ceremonies because their acting has been so phenomenal it’s been put up for an award. Yet what we’re made to focus on are their outfits and terribly skinny bodies; what makes it worse is that we call this image normal and don’t think about it again. The night does not end with magazines and newspapers reporting who won what award, who was most intelligent, who said the wittiest lines, but rather whose dress was the most extravagant, who had the best looking date and who had the most dazzling, expensive jewellery. It’s almost comical to think that they came to an award ceremony based on who they are and come out being scrutinized for whom they’re wearing. When it comes down to it, we see this on a universal level as well. Women must make the choice: do they wish to be defined by what they look like or what their policies are? Dress wrong, it may be easier to gain respect from your peers, but I can guarantee people will say you definitely don’t have it all; lacking in the looks is a big minus in today’s world. Women are taught they can get ahead with looks; models, playboy bunnies, the list goes on. But with just your mind, it really is that little bit harder. If we look at female figures around the world, Julia

Gillard and Hillary Clinton are seen as fierce women, involved in the political arena and no one looks at their dress style because they are above that. However I assure you it’s not too fashionable. Is this an intentional act by them to make sure they are heard and not seen? We will never know but it’s definitely ‘food for thought’ as they say. However, so many women let their looks define them, saying it is what they are, not who they are. It’s funny, I sometimes wonder, if Michelle Obama had the Harvard Law and Princeton degree but didn’t have the pretty face, would we respect her to the extent we do today? However I can assure you there are plenty of first ladies who have gone down in history but have had the IQ level of a teenager and the looks of a superstar. So many women today argue there just aren’t enough opportunities. But if those that represent us choose to turn the focus on what they are and not who they are, how do we have any hope of success? Here’s hoping change comes sooner rather than later.

Julia Bayer @Jay10bay

'But people do buy it; it sits in roughly 2,614,725 living rooms each day' cently Rupert Murdoch responded to a tweet describing Page Three as ‘so last century’ by saying ‘you maybe [sic] right, don't know but considering’. To me, this isn’t about press freedom and how far we can allow it to go. Publishing pictures of topless women on a daily basis is not in the public interest. They can be found elsewhere. In a time when the ethics of journalism are under severe scrutiny, I think we need to take a serious look at the standards of our national publications. The existence of Page Three undermines the already precarious status of women as their objectification continues to subliminally seep into our national consciousness. It’s time for it to go. It’s lewd, it’s unacceptable and in this day and age it’s ridiculous.

@SophieTollet1

www.redbrick.me/comment | 9

Do I come across a racist? Redbrick Comment Editor Dan Baird examines his online profile

World Malaria Day By Diane Thomas On 25 April 2013, World Malaria Day was marked worldwide. Malaria Consortium is helping to recognise the global effort to defeat malaria with the launch this week of Adam Nadel’s photographic exhibition Malaria: blood, sweat, and tears – at the Development and Cooperation Directorate General within the EU Commission in Brussels and online at www.malariatears. org Despite significant progress having been made in combatting malaria in recent years and a one-third reduction in malaria deaths within the last decade in Africa alone, malaria remains a leading cause of death among young children. Highlighted by the WHO, there is a significant shortfall in funding. In order to fund malaria control plans and provide mosquito nets, medicines and rapid diagnostic tests for malaria in Africa from 2013 - 2015, a further $3.6 billion is needed. This is in addition to $4.4 billion already mobilised by African governments and international partners. To avoid a resurgence of malaria in regions where enormous progress has already been made and to continue working toward elimination, there needs to be commitment to sustained support and investment. The exhibition, which draws attention to these issues, was conceived and produced by Malaria Consortium with award-winning

photographer Adam Nadel. It's aim is to highlight the complex relationship between malaria and poverty. The exhibition is supported by the Roll Back Malaria Partnership and will be on display at the EU Commission’s La Galleria from 24 April – 31 May. Malaria Consortium is one of the world’s leading non-profit organizations dedicated to the comprehensive control of malaria and other communicable diseases in Africa and South-east Asia. Malaria Consortium works with communities, government and nongovernment agencies, academic institutions, and local and international organizations; developing sustainable systems and good evidence to support the delivery of effective services. The organisation works at the interface between research and implementation, practice and policy, and health systems and disease control. Many households, due to extreme poverty, are forced to prioritize who will receive both malaria treatment and preventative devices. Those who receive mosquito nets, food and medication are more likely to survive, and gender and age are often the determining factors when parents make these unfortunate decisions.

I don't know what it is about my online life, Facebook specifically, that thinks I am a massive racist. I only pose this question in response to Facebook's repeated attempted to promote a group on my wall called 'Infidels of Britain'. If you haven't had a look at it already, its a wonderful collection of the 'Indigenous Patriots and Nationalists of Britain' as they like to refer to themselves, now as soon as you hear this the alarm bells should be going off in your head. Their beliefs are the standard right wing mix of withdrawal from the EU, caps on immigration (through forced repatriation) and seemingly a return to fundamentalist Christianity like countries like Pakistan who are fundamentally Muslim (because things are going so well there) and finally the imposition of a 'Nationalist/Military coalition CONSORTIUM', doesn't that all sound just wonderful? Now if just reading the description hasn't put you off this group, have a little scroll down and look at some of the delightful comments that 'the indigenous people of Great Britain' have shat out all over the page. Some of the most liked comments are in response to an article on the Daily Mail (of course), which is lamenting the inability of the British government to kick out preacher Abu Qatada. Interestingly, or worryingly, the highest rated comments are the ones that reckon we should 'put the foking bastard down!!!' or my personal favourite 'fuck human rights'. I know I don't speak for everyone but just in general, I'm quite a big fan of human rights (they're

normally quite useful). Now beyond this page I have clicked on the link for the Daily Mail article that has allowed the indigenous to vent their poorly phrased frustrations and allow others just to soak up all the hate. Maybe we should be glad of these pages, though allowing people to get angry online rather than oh I don't know just go out and desecrate graves. Now the comments on the Daily Mail aren't much better, again surprise surprise, but what I've actually found is that if you select the 'Worst Rated' section of the comments, they inevitably turn out to be the most sensible. It almost gives me hope for humanity. Taking people on their online comments I will admit is probably unwise. The most harmless conversation about butterflies can easily descend into anarchy at the press of a button. Still though I'm not quite sure why I have been singled out as a potential member of this group of definitely colourful characters. Maybe the next time I post a comment any where, I should include some footnotes [1] I quite like human rights [2] I quite like democracy [3] I quite like equality [4] and the Blue Morpho is my favourite type of butterfly Or conversely, if I wanted to be accepted into this group I could just throw in a few gems from Ann Coulter, my favourite being: 'I'm a Christian first, and a mean-spirited, bigoted conservative second, and don't you ever forget it.' Just terrifying.

10 | 3rd - 30th May 2013

Have you tried Interfaith yet? By Alaa Elaydi The University of Birmingham is taking its place as a leading campus in the national interfaith movement. But how will the rise of this movement affect campus life? And who is involved in bringing it together? On the surface, interfaith looks like this: a group of people who are very different from each other in the same place doing the same thing. That is still a pretty powerful image. But you need to really scratch beneath the surface to understand the impact that this movement is having on the lives and identities of those involved. Interfaith is not limited to individuals who are part of a religion, but can encompass anyone. It is based solely on the concept of faith - the deep feeling of belief (in anything) that forms our visions and constructs our values. Interfaith is what happens when these identities cross. Interfaith dialogue creates the opportunity for others to engage deeply with the values and beliefs we hold, and vice versa. It is a safe space that constructs mutually inspiring relationships and encourages discovery and discussion. One way of translating these discussions into something tangible is to share a vision with those you are engaging with, a common action for a common good this was the story behind the Interfaith Association. I founded the Interfaith Association in 2010, beginning a new era for collaborative work on our campus. Three years later, thanks to Bridge Builders from faith societies and the support of the Lokahi Foundation, it has hosted massive events for over 2,500 students. In 2011, MythBusters dealt with stereotypes in faiths. Around the World in Eight Faiths (2012) was a spectacular success, bringing together 1,290 students and staff for food and

discussions to be the largest student interfaith event in the country. It won the Guild Award for ‘Best Student Event’ in March. By 2013, students had already begun anticipating the interfaith event that was due on campus. The organising committee of eight students from six faith societies were under a lot of pressure to make it bigger and better than last year. They delivered with Faiths in Fusion, held on the 28th of February in a marquee in the centre of campus. More than just 14 delicious dishes, it was a place to learn about different faith societies and enjoy performances of music, dance and poetry. It was a place where everyone could fit together in a story of cooperation, understanding and harmony. One group of students composed this poem, which sums up the atmosphere and ethos of the event: ‘They came today in pairs, even 3s and 4s, But will leave as one. They came today with a story of their own. But will leave today with many more than just the one.’ As this academic year comes to a close, the cycle begins again for the Interfaith Association, and they are inviting you to come and give it a try. The student organisers this year got a lot through the process, discovering yourself through others. It is by engaging with the deep issues that make you who you are, and by giving you the opportunity to ask difficult questions: a short lived vulnerability that has a refreshing impact on how you perceive yourselves, and those around you. So let me ask you, have you tried interfaith yet? Because you don’t know what you’re missing out on! Get in touch at interfaith@guild.ac.uk .

News Views Dan Baird. News this week that house prices in London have risen by 9% may not seem like particularly exciting news, but coupled with the fact that house prices in the North-East have fallen by 5%, it begins to show a real contrast and highlight this 'North/South divide that economists and journalists are always going on about. What it does show is a lack of opportunity and investment in the north of England. There was recently a study done that suggested economically speaking we should treat London and the rest of Britain separately, as London is heavily reliant on financial services whilst the rest of the country looks more to the manufacturing sectors which are in decline.

ECONOMICS

SPORT

Chris Kamara. Has anyone else been totally enraptured by the snooker recently? No? Just me? Well if you are sick of revision and looking for something to fill that half an hour break before you get back to the grind, look no further than the snooker. Whether its the calm reassuring tones of Sue Barker or you're just waiting for Ronnie O'Sullivan to pull out some audacious shots on the table, snooker really does have it all. It doesn't really require much brainpower either to keep up with whats going on, the perfect combination if your brain is so full of facts that just remembering to wash is becoming a bit of a chore.

Carmelo Anthony. Basketball player Jason Collins has made history by coming out as the first openly gay active player in American sports. He made the announcement in an issue of Sports Illustrated magazine stating 'I kept telling myself the sky was red, but I always knew it was blue'. Many prominent figures in the world of sport and politics came out to congratulate Collins on the announcement, such as Kobe Bryant and President Obama. The question now is will this have any effect on his career. Hopefully it will be unlike the case of Justin Fashanu, who stated that after he came out in The Sun, he was never offered another football contract again.

EQUALITY

GENERAL MEETING A General Meeting (GM) of the members of the Guild will be held at:

Avon Room, University Campus on Tuesday 4th June at 6pm. All members of the Guild are invited to attend. At the meeting you’ll be asked to vote on six proposed special resolutions:

INCLUSION OF A REQUIREMENT TO HOLD A GENERAL MEETING ONCE A YEAR

A CHANGE TO THE PERCENTAGE OF STUDENTS REQUIRED TO CALL A GENERAL MEETING

CHANGES TO THE COMPOSITION OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES

REMOVAL OF THE POSITION OF UNIVERSITY TRUSTEE

CHANGE TO THE PROCEDURE FOR ELECTING STUDENT TRUSTEES

ADMINISTRATIVE AMENDMENTS TO GOVERNING DOCUMENTS

please see guildofstudents.com/gm2013 Unable to attend? Nominate a proxy voter by downloading the form online and returning to the Guild no later than 6pm on Sunday 2nd June 2013. Full instructions of how to complete the form and return it can be found online. Enquiries: gm@guild.bham.ac.uk

12| 3rd May - 30th May 2013

@RedbrickTravel

The Importance of Cultural Understanding, Even In Europe...

For more information about staying safe abroad: fco.gov.uk/travel www.facebook.com/fcotravel www.twitter.com/fcotravel

Will Spence Online Travel Editor & FCO Student Ambassador

When British travellers head off for a gap year adventure, an indefinite sojourn or just a small weekend break, it’s essential for those involved to understand that what we take for granted in Britain might not be welcomed with open arms abroad. One could argue that we Brits often fly off in ignorance when it comes to holidays. Perhaps it’s too obvious to point to the culture clash between Britain and South-East Asia, the African Savannah or the far-flung corners of Inuit Greenland. Indeed, I think it’s safe to say that some Brits may find few home comforts when it comes to visiting somewhere unfamiliar, but you must also be careful when it comes to going abroad closer to home. Here are some of the most unusual incidents of culture clashes, reminding us that we need to pay a bit more attention to local laws and customs and carry out proper research before swanning off abroad.

Snacking on the Rome steps You’re on a weekend break in Rome, it’s 25 degrees; you’re desperate for an ice cream and lucky for you

you’ll find some of the best in the entire world in the Italian capital. But wait! Before you sit down on those beautiful steps around the fountain, don’t start munching! The authorities of Rome have now started to penalise tourists with a large fine for having a quick snack at some of the capital’s famous landmarks. It’s a well-known British tradition for us to find some grass and have a picnic, but check before you do that in Rome, unless you want to risk spending €500 on a mozzarella panini.

Don’t finish your wine if you’ve had one too many in France Us Brits are well known for liking a drink, especially whilst on holiday. It’s usually quite hard to pass up a drink and we wouldn’t want to waste good vino, so we’re always keen to finish off whatever is left in our glass. If you feel a slight dizzy feeling in your head however don’t be brave and finish your drink; you’ll never leave the restaurant! It’s traditional in France for waiters to top up your glass if it’s empty. Instead do as the French do and finish your glass of wine when you stand up to leave the

restaurant and not before. If you want a safe journey home, don’t keep knocking them back.

Late night wining and dining in Madrid When planning to go out, us Brits love a big meal early on to get us set for the night. Whether it’s late afternoon or early evening, we love a good munch! Should you find yourself lucky enough to visit the Spanish capital of Madrid however, don’t be surprised to find yourself as the only person in the restaurant before 10 pm. The Spanish love to eat late because of their siesta tradition, so if you’re planning a night out, then leave your dinner until a little bit later. All in all, it’s essential to fully research your trip before you go abroad if you want to get the most out of it. There’s a wealth of information out there for you including advice about local laws and customs. The Foreign and Commonwealth’s (FCO) website is a great place to start, and you can also get tips on the go by following FCO travel on Facebook and on Twitter. For any of you with a smartphone, there is a great free app called Plan.Pack.Explore which has some great survival tips for culture shock!

www.redbrick.me /travel | 13

Stratford: A Very Quick Student Guide. Chloe Osborne Travel Editor

Stratford-upon-Avon: home of Shakespeare, birthplace of Bardolatry, steeped in cultural and historical sights... and just on our doorstep! The beautiful Warwickshire town is only a short hop away from Birmingham, and definitely worth a weekend visit, whether you’re interested in going to see Othello or not. Stratford is the perfect weekend getaway, and despite it being one of the UK's most popular foreign tourist attractions, it is very possible to visit on a budget:

Travel by train takes just over an hour, changing at Birmingham New Street and Birmingham Moor Street and costs £9 return with a railcard. Alternatively there is the coach; National Express coaches leave Birmingham Digbeth coach station more than hourly and cost around £9 advance fair. Accommodation can be found cheaply in Stratford, especially if booked in

advance. The YHA has private and dorm rooms for £10- £12, and the Arden Park En-suite rooms has private bedrooms for only £20 per night and endless B&Bs for

around £30 a night.

Drinking in Stratford is mostly consigned to Ye Olde English style pubs but the Chicago Rock Café on Greenhill Street gets quite lively at night.

Activities

non-Shakespeare related include boating down the Avon, a living Tudor and horror museum, some great shopping, walks and a cinema. If you are a fan of the Bard though, his first home, Anne Hathaway’s cottage, Halls Croft and many more are open to visitors most days and the grounds are always open.

Plays at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre continue throughout the year, currently showing is A Midsummer Nights’ Dream, and the Taming of the Shrew at the Swan. The RSC Key system allows 16-25 year olds £5 tickets to plays, and many other discounts included. To sign up, go to http://www.rsc.org.uk/join-us/key/.

14 | 3rd - 30th May 2013

@RedbrickArts @RedbrickArts

Reviews

3Bugs Presents: Wuthering Heights Elisha Owen Since its first film adaptation in 1920, Wuthering Heights has been a trap for artists trying to reinvent it. An enduring literary classic, the intense and violent plot often seems cartoonish when translated to stage or screen. 3Bugs Fringe Theatre's latest production, however, showed commendable ambition from director Eleanor Dodson, as she placed Charles Vance's adaptation in the unfulfilled generation of the 1980s. Set on the hostile Yorkshire moors, Wuthering Heights is a dark story of lost love and jealousy. A hill farmer adopts a homeless boy, Heathcliff, who then forges an obsessive relationship with the farmer's daughter, Catherine. This production was always going to be judged on the strength of its Cathy and Heathcliff and in Phoebe Brown and Jack J Fairley the play found itself on solid ground. Passionate in love and grief, the pair's intricate moments did not fail to move the audience. Brown perfectly captured the eccentric and unsettling Catherine Earnshaw. Able to burst into tears at the drop of a hat, her petulant nature and abusive tantrums were believa-

ble and made the audience laugh and sigh in frustration in equal measure. Fairley's interpretation of Heathcliff was the least melodramatic I have seen to date and it was a refreshing change. More brooding rocker than vagrant gypsy, his transformation from a quietly angry boy to a confident, vengeful man was subtle and suited the Eighties backdrop. Moving this gothic setting to the Digbeth Arts centre, The Edge, was no mean feat. The inside of the space was hilariously composed with an old jewellery counter, eclectic ornaments, and a red London telephone box that sat like an elephant in the corner of the room. It was very endearing though. The old furniture and lamps captured the era and the room was used well enough so as not to detract from the performance. The stairs at the back of the room were used particularly effectively, especially when the drunk Hindley Earnshaw, played by Hal Gellar, entered the room for the first time. Gellar was a tour-de-force who commanded the stage in every scene he was in. He provoked both empathy and disgust, as he

flitted between being the dominant and submissive character in the Hindley/Heathcliff power struggle. The play unfortunately seemed to rely on the audience having previous knowledge of the story. Even having read the novel several times, it was hard to keep track of how characters were related. This was obviously more a fault of Vance's adaptation and each audience member was thoughtfully provided with a family tree to help. One of the greatest challenges facing the director was to hold on to the audience as events moved back and forth through time. Laura Schofield, who played the faithful housekeeper Ellen Dean, provided some sort of a solution with her narration. Schofield was splendid as the maternal figure and it was her varied relationships with Cathy, Heathcliff and Hindley that really helped drive the play along. Placing Wuthering Heights in the Eighties was an ambitious move that didn't seem entirely justified. Apart from a change in clothing and set and a well-chosen soundtrack, little was gained from the moderni-

Grizzly Pear No. 3 Clifford the big red dog Critic

Amidst the thickening climate of exams, it was obvious that the third instalment of the Grizzly Pear was probably not going to be as packed to the rafters as the previous two, but thankfully this proved to be of no consequence to the evening’s entertainment value. Despite being relatively unfamiliar with the medium of poetry, the event still managed to offer plenty of enjoyment and variety. With such an inspiring number of open-micers it is unfortunate that not all their talent and efforts can be praised. Noteworthy readers included the resolutely deadpan James Walpole, and Miles Bradley’s self-depreciative but heart-warming defence of poetry ‘Requiem for Grizzly Pear’, which he read before bashfully returning to his post behind the PA system. Highlights from Writer’s Bloc veterans included Andy Cashmore’s thought-provoking and funny flash-fiction piece

which added a nice change of pace, and Ben Jackson’s hilariously overdramatic depiction of a warring couple (with a little help from Ali Moore) that suffice to say, defied all expectations. Travelling all the way from Singapore and stopping off in the U.S and London on the way, Stephanie Dogfoot certainly proved it to be a worthwhile journey. Performing incredibly well-crafted poems with a dreamlike delivery, she was even capable of making a bendy bus at 2AM a wondrous place exuding a Carpe Diem outlook on life. However, in my eyes none could hold a candle to the event’s headliner, Tim Clare, who had certainly been chosen with good reason. Clare gave the evening an immediate and violent injection of comic energy, with a performance that was full-on and fast-paced from the off. Though I was at first somewhat

unnerved by a man seemingly so quick-witted he couldn’t even keep up with his own thoughts, when it came to reading his poetry, the devotion to his craft shone through. From the brazenly puerile cry-for-help ‘Pub Stuntman’ to the relentlessly barmy ‘Noah’s Ark and Grill’ – a poem which would have earned a bow from Spike Milligan, the room was captivated until the end. This was the first Grizzly Pear of this whole academic year of which I had been present for the full duration, and in doing so I saw that this generation’s Writer’s Bloc Committee are taking the torch passed to them in a very exciting direction. The night had variety, longevity, a wealth of participation, and a lyrical interpretation of “Norfolk Brides” magazine over a Nas beat. Overall it proved that there was no need for full attendance to end the year with a bang.

sation. The music choices, ranging from Fleetwood Mac to The Sundays, were superb though. The first montage, when old Heathcliff hallucinates and sees his beloved Cathy, was profoundly moving, as they embraced furiously to The Cardigan's Explode. The frequent stylised montages eventually became a pitfall of the play. At first they were a welcome interlude between scenes but then they became predictable and slightly long-winded. The acting of all the cast was of such a high standard that it felt sometimes like they were robbed of dialogue. It was a credit to Fairley that he moved the audience to such an extent, without speaking, as he grieved for Cathy. This scene would perhaps have been even stronger without music. One of the strongest parts of the production was the astute casting. Jake Williams was memorable as Edgar Linton, his mawkish interpretation gaining the audience's sympathy and providing humour as Catherine's sidelined husband, in one deft swoop. Helena Shadbolt, as Linton's sister Isabella, was not entirely

believable at first, however in the more confrontational second half she skillfully displayed the fear of a woman subject to Heathcliff's fury. Despite not being convincingly old enough to play the old workman Joseph, James Dolton's hilarious grumblings were a welcome respite from the dramatic tension. The scenes between Hareton Earnshaw and Cathy Linton, played expertly by Lou Colledge and David Williams, were charming. It's a shame they weren't in the script more but when they did appear they provided a beautiful contrast against the destruction of the previous generation. Although not always successful, this production was brave and a delight to watch. From movement to music, each detail was considered and the acting alone was phenomenal. Heathcliff and Catherine truly embodied the idea that existence isn’t pure or idealised, but wild, passionate, cruel and powerful. It is this that Catherine yearns for, and the production mastered, as she famously asserts, 'Heathcliff is more myself than I am.'

www.redbrick.me/arts |15

Quartermaine’s Terms Charlie Moloney The casting of Rowan Atkinson as Sinjon Quartermaine might lead an audience to presume that, even if they know the play is ultimately a poignant tragedy, there will be several moments where Atkinson will don the Mr Bean mask for a cheap laugh. In Quartermaine’s Terms, producer Richard Eyre’s inspiration behind casting both Atkinson and, prolific comedy actress, Felicity Montagu as main characters could be to keep his audience looking for jokes in places where there is only a study of emptiness and despair. The story is of a group of teachers in the 1960’s, working at a school in Cambridge (not the prestigious University) for teaching English as a foreign language. The onstage set is, for the majority of the play, the staffroom. The play takes us through several years in the lives of the characters; every time the curtain drops the play will jump forward by a

number of months or years (or months and years) and we see the change in fortunes of the characters. Sinjon (Atkinson) is a pathetic and lonely figure. What he says when he speaks is invariably bumbled and superfluous; he is unrelentingly polite to the point where he cannot say anything worth saying. When the new teacher is talking to Sinjon about his girlfriend, Sinjon decides to say 'she really is a lovely girl Derek, to which Derek replies 'you’ll like her a lot more once you meet her'. Derek (Will Keen) is the accident prone newcomer who initially finds the school less than accommodating; most of the teachers mistakenly call him Dennis and he is refused full time hours. Despite being seemingly alienated by his colleagues, they are all equally alone in their own private despairs. Marriages, ambitions and minds (Felicity Montagu’s

Melanie becomes a born again Christian, and then a grotesque alcoholic) deteriorate over the course of the play. The power of the performance lies in its static nature: the set does not change, the characters all remain incapable of saying what they mean, which would allow them to progress and develop positively, rather than passively suffering; the audience is even allowed to flirt with the idea that Sinjon does not move from his armchair in the staffroom for months at a time. The most upsetting aspect of the tragedy is the unrequited, and gratingly undeclared, love that is an undercurrent in the play. Melanie, the classic spinster whose mother is her worst enemy and her only friend, declares her love to senior lecturer Conleth Hill, self-conceited humanist and married man. Her repression culminates in an impotent, comic attempt to turn

a massage into a grope; the moment is made twice as tragic and funny by Sinjon, who has been ignored, looking on, bewildered in his armchair. The coprincipal Eddie (Malcolm Sinclair) is an ambiguous figure, as we are unsure if his partner in education, Teddy (who remains off stage for the duration, adding to the mystery), is also his partner in love. It’s even harder to be sure when he makes young, attractive teacher Anita (Louise Ford), and the audience, decidedly uncomfortable with his attentions. Anita’s character, willing to forgive or alternately ignore her husband’s multiple infidelities, is also the favourite of Sinjon, who comes closest to acting like a real person when she breaks down in tears, declaring that he hates to see her upset 'more than the others'; he never says why, and we can only guess as Sinjon returns to his armchair.

Quartermaine’s Terms is a subtle and meticulously crafted representation of characters whose worst enemies are themselves and their incapacity to say what they feel, or even allow themselves to feel. It is perhaps a uniquely British tragedy, showing the real consequences of the iconic stiff upper lip. It is a profoundly humanist play, which leaves you feeling both shaken and emotionally engaged. If you don’t spend the first half of the play trying to laugh at the humour, which is droll rather than funny, then you’ll enjoy the whole thing a lot more. Atkinson is there to be the anti-Mr Bean, or what such a sympathetic character might be like in the real world; he pulls it off, complementing the rest of the cast brilliantly.

16 | 3rd -30th May 2013

@RedbrickSci&Tech

Measles outbreak getting worse

Officials urge parents to ensure vaccination of their children as more cases of measles are occuring

2000

Soumya Perinparajah Writer

Measles, caused by the Morbillivirus of the Paramyxovirus family, is spread easily by breathing in the cough or sneeze droplets of an infected person. Currently sweeping through Wales and parts of England, the number of confirmed cases is closely approaching 1000, in addition to one suspected death from the disease. The Swansea epidemic began in November last year, and the following ongoing outbreak records the highest number of cases seen in two decades. Prevention is conferred by the MMR vaccine, which protects against measles, mumps and rubella. However, a vital blow to the uptake of the vaccine came in 1998 when Dr Andrew Wakefield claimed in the Lancet medical journal that there was a link between the MMR vaccine and autism. For fear of the seemingly potential health risks, many parents refrained from vaccinating their children. This led to low MMR uptake rates of 80% in England and 78% in Wales in 2004. As a result, herd

Number of cases in 2012 (England and Wales)

immunity was no longer working; this is when a sufficiently large proportion of the population are vaccinated, conferring immunity to those who are unvaccinated. According to the World Health Organistion, a 95% uptake rate gives herd immunity. In urgent efforts to restrict the spread of the disease and meet this target, special MMR clinics set up in Wales are now in the process of vaccinating children and adults, and the rate of uptake is slowly creeping up, now standing at 89% in England and 92.7% in Wales. Although Dr Wakefield’s findings have long been discredited, its legacy was a generation of children who did Number of people in not receive the Swansea who have vaccine as a young child or baby. still not received vaccination Health officials are urging that all parents check their children are vaccinated.

Total Cases in England (Jan March 2013)

587 Spread of Measles cases in the UK January -March 2013

6000

Top 5 mobile games for your revision breaks Chris Starkey Writer

You have been revising for ten minutes. This definitely calls for a five minute break. Facebook checked, emails checked, BBC News checked. None have changed. What now? Crack out the old smartphone and here are some great revision break games to give a go. Keep an eye on the time though because some of these games can be really addictive.

Into the Dead Simple yet addictive gameplay. Surrounded by zombie hordes, one wrong decision, whether to try and gather more ammo or dodge left rather than right, and it's game over. The best part, it’s free!

The Room At a whopping £1.49 this is pushing the boat out and as a game this won’t be for everyone. You are presented with a box in a room and have to explore the box. It may not sound like much but there is a surprising level of depth to this game.

CSR Racing

Smash Cop Heat Remember playing those cop car games on the Dreamcast? This is a modern, smartphone and tablet version, featuring a helicopter camera view that adds a great element to the already fantastic array of missions and collectables. Also 100% free.

Move over NFS: Most Wanted, a new racer is on the tracks. With outstanding visuals and a full host of well-known supercars, this is the best racer available on your mobile.

Slingshot Racing A very fun, unique idea wrapped into a colourful and enjoyable 69p game. You control a snow-bob by firing a slingshot to help it around corners. Classic pick up and play style makes this well worth every penny.

www.redbrick.me/tech | 17

3rd - 30th May 2013

Growing trends for the 'Internet of Everything' 1

3 We take a look at how everything and anything could one day be connected to the internet Andrew Spencer Science and Technology Editor

The marketplace is currently packed with hundreds of types of tablets, phones, and even phablets (a cross between the two). There are TVs of all different sizes, many HD, some 3D, and a growing number with internet connectivity. It seems as though connecting all our devices and ensuring content can be seamlessly transferred between them is the current trend for our everyday tech. However, there is another fast growing field of technology. It is the trend of ‘The Internet Of Things’– the idea that everything should be able to connect to the internet, be it a chair, a kettle or even the floorboards. Many everyday objects people use without even considering the possibility that one day it could contain a microchip, constantly transmitting data to everything around it. At the Mobile World Congress exhibition back in February, Fujitsu showcased their smart walking cane for the elderly which can track heart rate, location and temperature as the user moves around, and it can send a message for help if he or she fell. The user can also be guided by the cane to follow certain directions when a route is programmed into it before setting out on a journey. There is little to prevent similar technology being put into devices for athletes too when they go out on runs. There are already heart rate trackers, tiny fitness monitors like FitBit that attach to clothing and special tech-enabled shoes for sportsmen. However, waterbottles could also be made smart, detecting intake of water, and monitoring other patterns, sending this data to the rest of the devices so a snapshot overview of your health at that moment in time can be stored. At the Consumer Electronics Show in January, a smart fork, the HapiFork, was shown which would monitor how big someone’s meal is, how often they bring food to their mouth, how much they have in each mouthful, and vibrates if he or she is eating too fast. This is aimed at preventing overeating and presents a case for even cutlery to be embedded with a microchip. This simple example of how an everyday 'dumb' object can incorporate current technology to benefit society demonstrates just how much other potential there might be for bringing everyday items into the world wide web. At many technology exhibitions this year, the ability to control your fridge and your oven from your smartphone has become a hot topic. When you are out shopping and you forget what food

1 you have in the fridge, or need to be sent a reminder to your phone that you need more milk on the way home, checking the contents of the smart fridge from your mobile may be of great use. LG’s smart ThinQ oven has the ability to heat to the right temperature based on what is being cooked, keeping you updated on how long is left to cook on your portable device. It has recently been found that certain drinks should be boiled at different temperatures. It could make sense one day to have a kettle with similar features whereby the type of drink required is selected on your smart phone while lying in bed each morning, and by the time you get up and go out to the kitchen, it is ready for you. Another example of this intercon-

like mirrors are slowly becoming smart. Bathroom mirrors, known as Memory Mirrors, can now detect what pills and medication are taken out of the cabinet, via RFID tracking tags, and displaying on the mirror screen if requested, so the owners never need to forget when they have taken their pills. The Internet of things may be a while off, but we are definitely progressing to an ‘always connected’, ‘always on’ future. Only time will tell how long it will take to reach a state of 'everyware'.

Fujitsu's walking cane for the elderly can track heart rate, location and temperature as the user moves around and it can send a message for help if he or she fell nectivity between current devices and new objects is LIFX, a ceiling light funded on Kickstarter.com that can be controlled by the phone to emit light into the room of any colour. It is not just household items that are being implemented with some of the latest technologies though. Clothing and other personal accessories are being connected up to the digital world too. Already, Google have released their virtual reality glasses which allow users to view information and images on the lenses. Clothing manufacturers in the future plan to launch tshirts which have changeable designs by connecting them up to a computer and downloading new patterns, colours or styles from the company website. T-shirts could also have moving designs on them, potentially playing short videos on repeat. Many Smart Devices developed and commercially available at the moment were already electronic in some form of another to start with. If you are now trying to find the latest smart wardrobes, smart beds or smart curtains on Google, you might not have much luck because we are currently a fair few years off incorporating the internet into all of these items. Even so, everyday objects

HapiFork - A fork that monitors how fast and how much you eat in a meal (available for preorder)

LG ThinQ SmartFridge A fridge with screen that allows access to online shopping, grocery lists, recipies and calendars for example. Connects to your mobile

Fujitsu's smart cane - A walking cane that tracks various health and safety measures for the elderly.

LG ThinQ SmartOven This oven can be monitored from your smartphone and has a range of preprogrammed temperatures for specific meals.

Google Glass - Google's recently released virtual reality glases

Check out more Science and Technology news and articles online at www.redbrick.me/tech

18| 3rd - 30th May 2013 @Redbrick @RedbrickTV

What you might have missed... Over Easter there have been lots of great new series hitting our screens. Redbrick TV walks you through some of the highlights.

The Doctor returns... Ashley Morten TV Critic

I will freely admit that I am a Piper and Tennant fangirl. I cried when Rose was left stranded in a parallel universe. I cried more when Doctor 10.5 joined her. I stared in bemusement as my beloved Doctor transformed into what can best be described as a giraffe in a bow tie. But I never gave up on Doctor Who. Yes, I even struggled through series six. And I am so glad I did. I liked Clara when we first saw her, in 'Asylum of the Daleks'. She was cheerful, she wasn’t Amy or Rory (yeah...I’m not fans of them either) and she insulted the Doctor which is always worth it, even if only to see his indignant expression. Then she was back for the Christmas episode! She was still funny and cheerful. Also, I found parts of that episode, especially her persistence in trying to find the Doctor, echoed how Rose acted in her very first episode. I really started to like this character, and, for the first time in a few years, was truly optimistic about how the rest of the series would turn out.

'The Bells of St John' was brilliant. Clara’s ineptness in technological matters was endearing and, hello, the Doctor rode a motorbike up the side of a building! Which just about made up for leaving a half-eaten Jammy Dodger by Clara’s side. While actionpacked, this episode had enough humour (the Twitter joke, And the mini adventures of Clara’s mug, “Have you clicked on the wifi button?”) to keep it from turning into, what my Mum terms as “techy stuff that he fixes with the sonic screwdriver”. To make this episode even better, I afterwards found it was confirmed that Billie Piper and David Tennant were returning for the 50th Anniversary. While I did enjoy 'The Rings of Akhaten', it could have been better. The singing was a little pointless, and I really hated the Doctor when he made Clara give up the ring passed down from her mother. Yes, she got it back later, but he has a whole TARDIS full of items – surely he could have given up a bow tie from one of his

Pond adventures? That said, the monologue near the end was truly impressive. I don’t think I’ve ever seen Matt Smith act so convincingly before. Although it was terribly sad when Clara allowed the leaf that led to her parents’ marriage to be reduced to ash, at least there was a good, solid reason behind it. This episode also clearly showed that Clara is not going to be a companion that constantly follows the Doctor’s lead; if she sees something she disagrees with, she will step in and stop it. I have to say, I didn’t find 'Cold War' that interesting. I’m sure it was a wonderful throwback for anyone who has seen the original Ice Warrior stories, but to me it felt like an excessively long game of hide and seek. I think part of the problem was that everything had to be resolved in 45 minutes; otherwise, we could have been told more about the Ice Warriors to make this a more interesting character – like Dalek with Christopher Eccleston. Frankly, 'Hide' was disappointing.

The story idea was wonderful, but it all felt rushed. Clara’s argument with the TARDIS was amusing, but it was the only really good point of the episode. The atmosphere was set up well, but there was just a bit too much techno-babble. Also, from being entirely unable to travel to the pocket universe, suddenly the TARDIS could make two trips. This is another episode that would have benefitted from being in two parts; more time to set up the story, and less of a rush to conclude it. I am enjoying Doctor Who more than I have been for the last few series, but it does feel like the writers are being a little lazy. I just hope this is because so much work is being put into the Anniversary special. But who knows? The next episode sounds intriguing, so let’s just hope it lives up to expectations and helps prove there is a reason this show has been running for 50 years.

www.redbrick.me/tv | 19

New Girl Ashley Morten TV Critic

New Girl has finally returned to E4 for its second season. Personally, I love this show. Jess (played by Zooey Deschanel) is a character I can easily identify with; after all, she got her fringe because she was insecure about her forehead, just as I did. And this episode starts with her realising she has overslept. If you claim that has never happened to you, you’re lying. We’re students. The dynamic between Jess and the other characters is very satisfactory; they mesh together well. But I have to admit I’m worried. Having signed up to be the only girl living with five guys next year, I just pray none of them end up with a similar injury to Schmidt’s. In this episode, Jess is fired from her job as a teacher. However, she does get a glittery silver hat and pair of green sunglasses in exchange. If

you think that’s an unfair trade, you’d find Jess agrees with you. She thinks she should have gone for the yo-yo. The main point of this episode is Schmidt’s ‘re-branding’ party. I’m sure this probably has some deep significance with this being the first episode of the new series, but I have to admit, I was distracted by Jess’ impression of dancing. Sure, this isn’t an intellectual show. But that’s not really what any of us want when we’ve just finished a busy term. This is an episode you can watch and easily understand without having seen the first series, so if you’re looking for something cheerful and light-hearted to entertain you for half an hour, I truly believe there is no better choice.

TOWIE Is it still ream or totes snoozeballs? Bethan Reynolds TV Critic

As ITV2’s The Only Way is Essex returned to our screens for its latest series, my Twitter newsfeed was quickly inundated with complaints about the reality show. My fellow tweeters moaned that “the story lines are becoming ridiculous” and that new characters were “uninteresting” and even “pointless”. However, despite their clear contempt for the show, my Twitter followers and millions of others still choose to tune into the show twice a week, every week, but why? In this series, viewers have been treated to dramatic plot twists such as, everyone’s gay best friend, Bobby, announcing that he wants to have a baby, or, to quote him precisely, “a gayby”. We have also followed curvy-girl Gemma as she set up a ‘Diet Club’, which has involved some half-hearted horse riding and numerous weight-related spats with her ex-boyfriend, Arg. Not to forget, yet more tears from Lucy as she hears continuing rumours that boyfriend Mario had been unfaithful yet again – when will she learn? So why do we love to hate TOWIE? We can’t deny that it’s cheesy and trashy, but perhaps that’s exactly why we watch it. Unlike the other shows on at ten o’clock on a

Wednesday night, for example, Newsnight or Law and Order: Special Victims Unit, TOWIE is light-hearted and requires almost no brainpower. We all like to relax, and getting away from our hectic lives for a few minutes and watching reality TV has become a form of escapism. After a long day at work, or in the university library, we don’t all want to follow terrorists and prosecutions in Law and Order, some of us want to laugh at Diags’ plans to open a cheese shop, despite the fact he hates cheese. Having said that, the main thing I love about TOWIE is that it really is funny. My friends and I tune in every week because we know the show will make us laugh from start to finish. It’s ‘reality TV’, but it’s not a reality that we know. Characters, like the famously unintelligent Joey Essex, are faced with problems such as trying to remember what date Christmas is and failing miserably to calculate the correct change for customers in his new boutique. And if it’s not Joey’s stupidity making us snigger, it’s a bitchy remark or catfight amongst the girls, because, in Essex, there is always someone stirring up the drama that we can’t help but love.

20 | 3rd - 30th May 2013

'I'll swallow your soul.'

@RedbrickFilm

Evil Dead 2 (1987)

TopThree

Film Editor Becky McCarthy lines up the best movie super-villains #1 The Joker Batman

#2 Magneto X-Men

#3 Loki Thor

This comic book legend has been transferred from page to screen by some of the best actors around. Initially brought to life by the legendary Jack Nicholson and later by the Oscar-worthy Heath Ledger, the character has been treated well in terms of on-screen interpretations. Little is known about the character’s background, but what is made clear is his enthusiasm for causing mayhem and his psychopathic tendencies which evoke terror.

As the arch-enemy of Professor Xavier (leader of the X-men), Magneto poses a threat to humans worldwide. The mastermind, played firstly by Ian McKellen and more recently by Michael Fassbender in the franchise’s re-boot, is gifted with the ability to mentally control objects made of metal. Along with his side-kick Mystique, Magneto encourages mutants to embrace their abilities, fighting against mankind instead of existing harmoniously.

Loki, played by Tom Hiddleston, is the brother of Thor. Raised together in Asgard, the two brothers competed for their father Odin’s acceptance and approval, with Thor being favoured the most. Driven to bitterness, Loki declares war on Thor and his newly found home; Earth. Seen both in the film Thor and more recently in Avengers Assemble in which he takes on the whole gang, Loki can be classed as the new favourite super-villain in film.

FilmReviews

Iron Man 3

Evil Dead

DAISY EDWARDS Critic Release Date: 25th April 2013 Director: Shane Black Cast: Robert Downey Jr., Gwyneth Paltrow, Guy Pearce

TOM LOFKIN Film Editor Release Date: 18th April 2013 Director: Fede Alvarez Cast: Jane Levy, Shiloh Fernandez, Lou Taylor Pucci

Even though it’s not necessary to watch the two previous Iron Man films, or Avengers Assemble, I think any audience member would benefit from it. Iron Man 3 follows Tony Stark and the US government trying to bring down The Mandarin, a new terrorist threat. Even though the plot is straight forward, a number of things make it stand out, such as Tony Stark’s anxiety attacks after what happened in New York (see Avengers Assemble) and the contrasts with how much Stark has changed over the years, and how determined he is to change for Pepper Potts (Gwyneth Paltrow). Acting, script and action sequences are all splendid, and fans of Pepper get to see how hell bent she is on making sure Stark doesn’t come to harm. Regarding character development, the audience will see Robert Downey Jr. branch out of the witty, sarcastic role of Stark, and see a more emotionally damaged character, that really highlights how vulnerable and human he is. The Mandarin and his crew hold enough threat, and at some points seem a bit dark for a 12A rating. However there is a twist with the villainy that even I didn’t see coming, which really highlights how bad these bad guys are. In short, Iron Man 3 is a brilliant end to a trilogy, and as a trilogy, the continuity of acting and scripting throughout are spot on and a joy to watch.

In 1981, Sam Raimi’s horror masterpiece The Evil Dead shocked, disgusted and terrified audiences, launching the cult film career of its director and lead actor, Bruce Campbell. Jump to 2013, and we find Raimi and Campbell are back, this time producing a reboot/reimagining of their own classic film, Evil Dead, directed by newcomer Fede Alvarez. Right off the bat, we know the story already. Five friends, secluded cabin in the woods, accidentally release evil demons. A series of clichés follows, taken straight from the horror film textbook. The characters become nothing more than meat to be shot, burnt and dismembered in ever more graphic ways. And yes, they do go down into the basement. Not to say that this isn’t a lot of fun. On the contrary, the gore effects are truly incredible, not to mention practical. No crummy CGI to be found here, just good old fashioned make-up, fake blood and hard work. Limbs are sawn off, heads smashed in and a nail gun gets misused. However, as refreshing as all this glorious violence is, Evil Dead is just not scary. We were promised the most terrifying film that we would ever see. What we get is a sickeningly gory, fun filled hour and a half, a solid début from Alvarez, but one which sadly relies too heavily on shock factor to make up for a lack of any legitimate scares. Also, fans of the original film should stick around for an aftercredits treat.

Newsreel LILY BEAZLEY Film Editor Rumours are surfacing that George Clooney plans to form another collaboration with the productive team behind Argo. Clooney, who took on the role of producer for the 2013 Oscar success story, is now in talks to direct Coronado High a feature film adaptation of Joshuah Bearman’s upcoming article.

Scarlett Johansson is in final negotiations with Leon director Luc Besson to star in his upcoming action-thriller Lucy. Johansson will step back into the role of a female superhero, after her appearance as Black Widow in the Avengers Assemble, and take on the role of a woman who gains super-powers after consuming drugs.

20th Century Fox has finally closed movie rights to a remake of stage musical Guys and Dolls. The 1955 hit musical, which famously starred Frank Sinatra and Marlon Brando, is set for a re-boot with stars Joseph GordonLevitt and Channing Tatum rumoured to be interested.

www.redbrick.me/film | 21

Show me the money: Are audience-funded films justifiable? Jonathan Fagg considers whether or not film Kickstarters are an artistic step forward for the fan community, or a desperate cash grab for doomed projects The world of film funding is changing. For the first time, thanks to websites such as Kickstarter, the public are able to fund creative endeavours. With donations of set amounts earning specific rewards offered by artists, Kickstarter has provided a total of $131 million to fund film projects. However, if a project fails to receive the amount asked for then none is received, with all given returned to donors Only 44% of all Kickstarter projects achieve their funding, and a significant proportion of those funded projects fail once given the money. While many indie projects have been funded this way, the increase of the site’s popularity has led mainstream projects to attempt to be crowdfunded. Last month, the producers of hit television series Veronica Mars asked for $2 million in order to make a film continuing the franchise. In total, they received $5 million. As Veronica Mars is owned by Warner Bros, they will receive the lion’s share of the profits, with the rest going to the more fortunate of the film’s staff, and not a cent of it will go to donors.

'Only 44% of all Kickstarter projects acheive their funding.'

Is it right that one of the world's largest production companies uses a tool originally designed for indie projects to get the public to pay their production costs? Shane Carruth, indie filmmaker behind the wonders Upstream Color and Primer, stated in a recent interview that crowdfunding was ‘a completely legitimate thing, although I do think that you have to have a conscience if you’re going to do that. If you’ve got money available to you as equity, you can’t just take people’s money for free.’ This conflict came to a head with Zach

Braff’s Kickstarter project, Wish I Was Here. Star of Scrubs, a popular American TV series that ran for eight seasons, he asked for $2 million, a goal reached days into the project. With it going on until May 24th, it will surpass that amount significantly. This has provoked many to accuse him of ‘crowdsploitation’, or taking advantage of his fans in order to line his pockets. Is this a fair criticism? It is in no way a guarantee that famous individuals will be successful on Kickstarter. Melissa Joan Hart, famous for playing the titular Sabrina in Sabrina, the Teenage Witch, launched a Kickstarter within days of Braff, also asking for $2 million. On the day Braff’s project had reached that amount, she had only gathered $41,000, with little momentum behind her campaign to indicate that it could carry her to her desired amount.

himself against the backlash, telling the LA Times that ‘People seem to think I have Oprah Winfrey money’ and that although ‘I've done well in my career. I am not sitting on $22 million’. That figure, along with Entertainment Weekly’s claim he was earning $350,000 per episode of Scrubs, has been quoted against him. Little evidence backs up these figures. On Reddit, Braff stated that not only had he invested ‘plenty’ into the project, and that while he would like to share the profits of the film with his donors, doing so is ‘not yet legal’.

'By paying these donations, Braff's fans are defending him from personal risk..'

It should also be stressed Braff is not simply given however much his project raises. First, Kickstarter take 5% of the total amount. He then has to pay for all of the rewards promised to donors. He then has to use the money left over from that to make the film, with what is left after that left for him. On top of this, all of this is considered taxable income. Furthermore, if his fans perceive him to be driven by greed, then his relationship with it will be permanently damaged. It is unfair to characterise him as ruining Kickstarter. The Guardian has claimed that ‘A dollar for Braff is a dollar away from an unknown’. It is too early to say if his project distracts users away from those made by lesser known talent, and he could just as easily be encouraging new users to check out the website. It would be a shame if multimillionaires took over a tool designed to support indie projects, but it is too early to say whether or not coexistence between the two is possible.

Braff admits that he turned down a ‘typical financing deal’ for the project, as one would reduce his creative control. This could be seen as a win for an artist, allowing their vision to reach their fans unfiltered. However, while a conventional investor would expect to receive a share of the film’s profits, Kickstarter donors will receive the reward promised for the amount they gave, and nothing more. Some of these rewards are reasonable, however, the chance to be an extra in return for $2500 ignores the fact that being an extra is an actual job people are paid to do. By paying these donations, Braff’s fans are defending him from personal risk, while letting him reap most of the profit. Braff has defended

'It is unfair to characterise him as ruining Kickstarter.'

22| 3 May - 30 May 2013 @RedbrickFood

Why I Went

Vegetarian

Proud to be

Flexitarian

George Adye

Millie Walker

Food Writer

Here I want to briefly draw attention to a certain part of modern life that we prefer to remain blissfully ignorant about. Many of us do not deviate from the general diet we are bought up on. It is not often we consider both the beneficial and adverse effects that our diet has on our body and mind. Today, however, the point I want to make concerns ethics, not nutrition. Eating meat is a habit – meat comes ready to eat or ready to cook and then eat. It is not often that we think about the animal that that meat used to be a part of. This is unnatural in itself, though convenient. Out of sight, out of mind. When we think about the process in which meat ends up on our plate, we come face to face with some uncomfortable questions. Essentially, the essence of these questions is: ‘is this ethical?’ Trying to justify eating meat as necessary for survival blatantly doesn’t work – there is clearly no shortage of food in this or any other first world county (in fact, the amount of food it takes to raise these animals compared to the amount of food we get out of them is ridiculous). So we must try something else. We may vaguely recall being taught at school something along the lines of ‘meat = protein, protein = good for you’. While this is true, is it not also true that we can get our protein from other sources? Try yoghurt, nuts, beans, cheese, milk and so on. Besides, we eat too much protein as it is. The recommended daily intake is 46 grams for a woman, 56 for a man. A 6oz steak contains around 42g, and a glass of milk 8g; we probably consume twice the recommended amount. There are adverse health effects in consuming too much protein, as well as in not consuming enough. The myth that vegetarians and the like are skinny, nutrient-deprived people has started to fade away. More people are starting to recognise that there are many substitutes for meat to keep you fit and healthy. Meat has historically been a crucial aspect of our ancestors survival, and rightly so. Today, however, the practice no longer seems necessary. So why do we continue to eat meat? Because it tastes good, and it is a habit. These do not seem like good grounds for eating meat. For eating anything else, maybe so. But then no other food source entails billions of sentient animals a year to be bred in captivity, fed a highly unnatural amount of chemically-altering foods, to then be killed, butchered and eaten by us, without ever roaming free or ever seeing grass; at least, these allegations apply to most types of intensive farming. And this is only one of the unpleasant factors that consuming meat has. Another springs to mind: the cause of more than half of the deforestation in the Amazon is for the purpose of cattle ranching – which involves breeding and raising animals to sell as meat. Like I said, we like to remain ignorant of these facts. This is made easier by our not actually witnessing the process. I invite you to go online and watch some videos from within a factory farm to see if it changes your mind, or at least to see if it raises the question: is this ethical? In considering fundamental aspects of our daily lives we may become better people. If you have thought about the meat-industry, and concluded something along the lines of ‘man is above animals. He may utilize them as he sees fit – eating meat is fine’ I would then urge you to reconsider (and consider the environmental impacts of eating meat), but I would respect you insofar as you’ve thought the matter over and came to your own conclusion. It is mindless consumption that is the real enemy, for in this you degrade yourself as an autonomous human being. Without questioning, you cease to be an individual and change into a consumer; which is exactly what the meat industry as well as many other industries want. To clarify, I eat meat. It is only very recently that I began to consider this aspect of my life and drew some unsettling conclusions. I have begun looking at alternatives to meat that possess the same nutritional value, so that I can eventually drop this unnecessary carnivorous habit. However, the point of this article is not about me – it is about asking you, the reader, to question this uncomfortable aspect of modern life.

I am a ‘Flexitarian’. Apparently. I love fruit and vegetables (no really, I do) and I couldn’t go for long without some form of fish. Eating meat however...well, I can take it or leave it. I’m not massively inclined to a carnivorous lifestyle and I certainly don’t consider a meat-free meal to be inadequate. In fact I can live without it for days or even weeks when I’m in Birmingham because it’s expensive and I can never quite finish a pack of sausages/chicken/minced meat before it’s past its sell by date. Freeze it then! I hear you cry. Well, yes, I suppose I could, but working different shifts every week, flying on and off campus when I choose and dashing back to Derby every now and then, I’m just not that good at planning my meals in advance. However, when asked the question, would I become a Vegetarian? The answer has to be no. Yes, animal rights are very important but I always make sure I’m buying free range/organic meat (probably where my money issues start). Yes, lambs are quite cute and it seems a topsy-turvy shame that I picture them first with mint sauce, and then in a meadow. Yes, being a vegetarian would be more eco-friendly. However, with the Chinese population consuming quadruple the amount of meat they did thirty years ago and the USA consuming the equivalent of 7.4 billion chickens a year, I really don’t feel that the environmental or humanitarian arguments will sway me from the occasional beef lasagne. I just do like the taste of meat. My sister is a vegetarian and there have been many occasions, on dining out, where I have envied her mushroom risotto or beautifully made vegetable gratin, though it is only in the instant before my steak/ lamb-shank/chicken breast/fish pie arrives, that I really wish I could swap places with her. When eating in restaurants I know that I’m going to be treated to meat prepared and cooked as I could never do it at home and I long for the opportunity to eat it at its proteinpacked best. I don’t have to eat meat every day, I don’t rely on it as a main component to my meals, I simply enjoy the taste. I have never believed that giving up something I enjoy is proving anything to anyone and therefore I shall continue in my moderate meat eating habits, taking it or leaving it depending on how I feel...and right now, I really fancy that steak.

Find Vegetarian goodness in...

Brocomole Ingredients - 1 large head Broccoli - 1/2 Lime (zest and juice) - 1 Spring onion (sliced finely) - 2 x Soya yogurt pots - 1/4 tsp Chili powder - 1/4 tsp Cayenne pepper

Method 1. Cook broccoli in some lightly salted water until very soft. Overcook it in comparison to what you do normally and drain. 2a. Option 1 (if you have a blender): Chuck in all the ingredients and blitz :) 2b. Option 2 (no blender) : With a sharp knife slice up the broccoli into very small pieces. Add to a small bowl with all other ingredients. Attempt to mash with a fork. (Now you'll wish you cut up the broccoli smaller!). Serve with fajitas or doritos.

Recipe from The Lobster and Me food and lifestyle blog found at lalangostaymi.blogspot.com.

www.redbrickpaper.co.uk/| 23

Eat Your Way To Exam Success Millie Walker Food Writer

Be it a lucky pen, special socks or twirling three times on your left foot whilst humming the theme to Grange Hill, we all have superstitions and routines before exams that make us (somehow) feel more relaxed and twice as likely to succeed. We also know that eating the right foods can boost the brain; but how many of us abide by the rules of exam-eating and how many of us avoid the subject altogether because we’re just too busy? Having done the research on your behalf I’m willing to admit that there are some weird and wacky brain foods. The lists seem endless and as my tired eyes mingle revision with recipes, Chaucer’s Canterbury Caulifowers acquire entirely new meanings. However, I do believe that certain foodstuffs can help us in the next month and having whittled out the oddities, I present you with the dos and do nots of my exam diet, created with a gleaming, gluttonous 1:1 in mind. DO... BOOST CONCENTRATION Oily Fish is rich in Omega-3 which is PURE BRAIN FOOD. A simple snack of sardines on toast is an absolute favourite of mine though I appreciate it’s not for everyone. Tinned tuna does not contain such high levels of Omega-3, however it’s worth getting a hit, so swapping cheese for tuna in your sandwich is good an option as any. Top Tip: Tinned salmon is just as cheap as tinned tuna but has more Omega-3 and is twice as tasty on a jacket potato Nuts and Seeds, are great sources of Omega-3 and protein. I’m not about to put walnuts on my Weetabix, it’s simply not a direction I see my breakfast taking. However, buying a packet of pumpkin seeds to sprinkle in my salads or put on my porridge I could definitely manage. Top Tip: Grab a Cereal Bar from Tesco to get a quick fix of nuts and seeds the morning before an exam. TAKE AVANTAGE OF THE FRUIT AND VEGETABLE STALL ON CAMPUS Buy blueberries, strawberries and bananas, peppers, broccoli and sweet potatoes to fuel your body with nutrients, keeping you active and warding off those cold viruses. Top Tip: Pure fruit juice will give you many of the nutrients you need, homemade smoothies are even better. Cheat: If you really can’t see yourself having avocado and spinach with your pasta, stock up on Multivitamins to give your body exactly what it needs to keep you focussed. They are not a substitute for meals though! EAT SMALL MEALS REGULARLY It’s important to keep your energy levels high but not overload your body with massive meals and send yourself into a food induced slumber. Top Tip: Snack on fruit at your desk to stave away hunger and sugar cravings. DON'T... DRINK VAST QUANTITIES OF COFFEE OR ALCOHOL Some people keep away from Broad Street at the best of times, but for the next few weeks, the rest of us need to do the same. Alcohol muddles the mind and causes us to miss early morning lectures which is not what we need this month! Yes, we all like to have caffeine hits, but you need to do it sensibly. An espresso

before an exam will keep you alert however substituting coffee for regular meals will leave you battling mood swings and feeling sluggish once Starbucks has closed. It is also vital that you get enough sleep during the exam period. Top Tip: Drink plenty of water to keep you hydrated and if you need a hot drink at your desk, try tea (without the sugar) SKIP BREAKFAST We all know the mantra: Breakfast Is The Most Important Meal Of The Day. Many of us feel sick before exams and the rest are too busy cramming last minute gobbets of information into our heads to remember to eat. However it’s really important to boost your brain for that three hour slog. Plus, you don’t want to get half way through and have your stomach growling at the people sitting next to you. Top Tip: If you don’t have time for porridge and banana, a Cereal Bar will give your brain a boost before a 9am exam. REACH FOR ROOSTERS...yet. There may be brain-booting foods but there are also brain-blocking foods. The day before your exam you want to steer clear of lots of white flour and turkey. Pizza, white pasta, cake, muffins, chips (and turkey)...will slow your body down as they take longer to digest. You may be excusing them as treats after a hard day’s revision but saving them for a treat after a good exam will be much more rewarding. Top Tip: Stick to eggs, whole-grains and those all important fruits and vegetables to leave your body in no doubt that you want its full attention for the days to come.

Not Vegan Or Veggie but totally delicious...

Green Thai Chicken Curry boiling water 300-400g of a mixture of green vegetables washed thoroughly and finely sliced, diced or chopped 200g rice 10ml lemon juice 2 tablespoons of cooking oil Black pepper – two twists of a pepper mill or half a teaspoon

Ingredients 1 large onion (250g) 1 clove of garlic smashed 1 chilli chopped 50-100g root ginger peeled and finely sliced 2 chicken breasts with or without skin cut into 2cm (3/4 inch) cubes Coconut milk – either 2 x 400ml cans or a 200g block of creamed coconut made up to 1 litre with

Method Prepare the vegetables ensuring everything is dry before being cooked Heat one tablespoon of oil in a large frying pan or wok on medium to high heat (1-2 minutes) Add the onion and stir until golden brown and soft (3-5 minutes) Add the garlic, chilli, ginger and black pepper and stir well to mix with the onions (1-2 minutes) Add the other vegetables gradually, stirring well to mix with the onion, chilli and garlic – ideally start with hard vegetables such as root vegetables, cabbage and broccoli and finish with soft vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini/courgette, green pepper/capsicum and squash Place in the vegetable mixture in the casserole dish or heat-proof bowl

Recipe from Kook recipe blog for people who want to eat easy, healthy food. For more Tweet @EasyKook.

Put the chicken pieces in the frying pan or wok on medium high heat and cook until thoroughly cooked with no visible pink meat and the outside of the pieces slightly brown (5-10 minutes) Add the vegetable mixture to the frying pan or wok and mix well (2-5 minutes) Add the green Thai curry paste and stir well (3-5 minutes) Add the coconut milk and stir well (3-5 minutes) Reduce the heat to low and leave until ready to serve Put a kettle of water on to boil Place 5ml of cooking oil in a large saucepan on medium high heat (1-2 minutes) Add the rice and a pinch of salt and stir well until mixed with the oil (1-2 minutes) Add the boiling water and stir well until simmering (1-2 minutes) Cover and leave to cook until the rice has increased in size, the water has disappeared and there are vertical holes in the rice Add the lemon juice and stir well before removing from the heat (1-2 minutes) Serve the rice and curry (Optional) drizzle a little natural yoghurt over the curry, decorate with a little finely chopped rocket salad and thinly sliced red chilli Enjoy!

24| 3rd - 30th May 2013 @RedbrickMusic

Redbrick Picks: The Best Festivals There's more to life than Glastonbury, and here's why... BESTIVAL

BENICASSIM

Isle of Wight, U.K. 5th-8th September 2013

Costa Azahar, Spain 18th-21st July 2013

Lily Blacksell Music Editor

Jonathon Milnes @LilyBlacksell

What do you do after you’ve won Festival of the Year Award 2010 and 2012? What do you do to ensure 2013 will live up to 2012’s sun-soaked glory? You have a socking great 10th birthday party, that’s what! This year’s festival, decked out in all its HMS Bestival themed finery, is set to be the biggest and best yet. The line-up is magnificent and ever-expanding. Headliners at the helm so far are Elton John and Snoop Dogg, and the other acts across the weekend are all sublime. The Brum contingent is pleasingly strong, with Peace, Swim Deep and Jaws all flying the flag. Other highlights include Wu Tang Clan, Bombay Bicycle Club and man of the hour, Nile Rodgers performing with Chic. Bestival is widely known and widely loved for its unfaltering eccentric charm. It owes this to the fabulous fancy dress, the range of performers and performance areas and, despite such a flawless musical line-up, its nod to the fact that 'it's not all about the music'. Poet John Cooper Clarke will take to the stage, and Scroobius Pip's 'Satin Lizard Lounge' will lend a platform to spoken word artists (not least UoB's own James Grady!) 'The Port' - 'a brand new mind-blowing dance arena' has recently been announced in honour of Bestival reaching its tremendous tenth year. With headline sets from Richie Hawtin, Annie Mac Presents and Carl Cox, The Port is 'going to be an all night maritime adventure with dirty little rum bars, enticing brothels and sea shanties ringing out from random sailor folk in every corner'. If that doesn't float your boat then I don't know what will. Talking of boats (as I have been quite a lot, sorry) Bestival is making it easier than ever to get to and from the Isle of Wight, working with Big Green Coach and ferry companies alike. Something they can also be proud of is the work they do on the Island before and after its wonderful musical invasion. Josie and Rob da Bank's continued support of local talent and patronage of the IoW Youth Trust ensures a connection and harmony between venue and event that is worth celebrating, and will ensure many more Bestivals to come. Drink up, me hearties yo ho!

Music Critic

UNKNOWN Revinj, Croatia. 10th-14th September 2013 Tamara Roper

@JonTMilnes

Glastonbury. Not only is it quite expensive, it's also impossible to get hold of tickets. And to top it all off, if you did manage to get one, you will no doubt be spending the majority of the time attempting to waterproof your carefully selected festival attire with copious ammounts of binliners. Chances are, it will rain. A lot. So, how about this: spend £50 less, get one extra day of live music and guaranteed sunshine. That's right, Benicassim really is that good. Surely the lineup can't be as good though? Wrong. There's the big hitters of the festival circuit, the likes of Arctic Monkeys, The Killers and Queens of the Stone Age. On top of that Dizzee Rascal, Azealia Banks and Bastille are all making appearances. And, if you're like me and fancy a bit of mainstream, Rizzle Kicks, Rudimental and La Roux also make the line-up. What is great about Beni is the amount of up-andcoming talent on the bill: AlunaGeorge, Jake Bugg, Palma Violets and Swim Deep just to name a few. What really tops this festival off is its location. Lying on the Spanish coast between Barcelona and Valencia, Beni is not only a music festival but a summer holiday. The beach is a short walk away meaning the muddy face and sodden clothes of any British festival can be replaced by a healthy glow and a cracking tan. Plus, while there is music for 4 days, you can camp for a whole week to ensure everyone gets the most out of the rays.

'What really tops this festival off is its location, lying on the Mediterranean coast between Barcelona and Valencia' Beni is a well established festival, famous for attracting thousands from all around Europe. With cheap flights and a great line-up, there is absolutely no excuse not to pack your tent and get away.

Music Critic

@tamara_r

It seems everybody wants a slice of Croatian pie these days. Festivals over that end of Europe are growing in popularity and subsequently price every year, as Outlook and Dimensions have become just as talked about as British stalwarts like Reading and Bestival. Trouble is, they’re expensive, and their line-ups are dominated by dance music, the latter probably being a turn off if you’re a fan of throwing your hands in the air for a bit of Calvin Harris. So what to do, if you want beach parties and a taste of the local Krvavice but you don’t want to fork out big bucks for a ticket and you don’t know who Digital Mystikz are? Go to Unknown, silly.

'It seems everyone wants a slice of Croatian pie these days.' A new baby festival for those who like a bit of dance but also a bit of pop, Unknown is the one for you. It’s by the beach, in Rovinj (that’s East side Croatia, fyi) and it’s got everyone’s favorites Jessie Ware and Disclosure headlining. If you’re a bit indie, Django Django and The Horrors are playing, and if you prefer your music without the catchy choruses, then you’ve got Actress, Joy Orbison and Jackmaster. Tickets with 5 days camping are £159, and the experience has been described as 'the opposite of UK camping'. They’ve gone one further and accepted that we’re all a bit hard up with cash at the moment, so you can pay in deposits. The beauty of these long weekends is that you’re not just getting top quality music, but a holiday in the sun too. Beaches and foreign cuisine make any cost seem worth it. Failing that, you get to tell your friends that you went to Unknown before it was well known. Zivjeli!

www.redbrick.me/music |25

OPEN'ER Gdynia, Poland 3rd-6th July 2013 Sam Dix Music Editor

KENDAL CALLING Lake District, U.K. 26th-28th July 2013 Jay Crosbie

@what_sam_said

Forget Mediterranean coastlines and mystical fields, with hipster fashions and hippy rituals, the new place to spend your musical weekend, being it candidly stubble-stroking at the back of the indie tent or tipping over priced lager over each other at the front of the main stage, is an airfield in northern Poland.

'In a play off between British and American headliners, Blur and Arctic Monkeys precede Kings of Leon and Queens of the Stone Age in a festival that amalgamates the best of other festivals.' For the price of a single ticket to one of the headliner's UK shows, around £100, you can watch all the bands, visit Poland and spend seven days away from what will almost definitely be a dismal British summer. In a play off between British and American headliners, Blur and Arctic Monkeys precede Kings of Leon and Queens of the Stone Age in a festival that amalgamates the best of other festivals. Open'er festival combines a mixture of classic acts, from Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds and Modest Mouse to newer acts such as Mercury Award winning Alt-J. Taking place from the 3rd to the 6th of July, it's pound for pound, euro to euro, the best value festival in Europe. If indie-rock isn't quite your thing, there's festival stalwarts Crystal Castles, Crystal Fighters, and also bands which don't have crystal in their names, such as Tame Impala and Animal Collective. So if you want a festival that has all the best bands, for the best price and if you're fed up with the increasing number of GCSE parties infiltrating UK festivals, or even if you like visiting air fields and want to tick another one off your list, Open'er is the one for you.

Music Critic

LOVE SAVES THE DAY Bristol, U.K. 25th-26th May 2013 Jake Pembroke

@JayDaHousecat

Kendal Calling has come a long way from its humble beginnings in 2006. Now, 7 years on it's armed with a 13,000 capacity venue which is expanding every second, drawing in more admirers whilst cementing a solid base of veteran fans - and it's not hard to understand why. Since its inception, 'Kendal Calling' has twice won 'Best Small Festival' award and drawn in an army of loyal supporters including everyone from Tom Flemming of Wild Beasts fame to Barry Hyde from The Futureheads, who described it as 'giving Glastonbury a run for its money'. This year promises to be no different. With a hyper diverse lineup including rap giants Public Enemy, and UK Garage overlords Basement Jaxx on the bill, it's hard not to lose your breath with excitement. Making their home town return are crowd favourites: British Sea Power, who are armed with a new LP that's sure to unite the Kendal Calling veterans with and the new-comers alike. The 'Glow Dance Tent' is saturated with an array of stunning live acts including Fake Blood, one third of Magnetic Man and full time Dubstep producer Artwork whose sets should provide festival go-ers with some highlights of the weekend.

'Kendal Calling is giving Glastonbury a run for its money, the festival is great!' The Futureheads Between the genre-spanning headliners, the distinct amount of talent performing on the 'Glow Dance' tent and the smaller bands, it'll be a shock if Kendal Calling doesn't get crowned 'Best Small Festival' for the third time, come award season.

Music Critic

@Jake_Pembroke

After a sell-out inaugural festival last year, Love Saves the Day festival returns to Castle Park, Bristol. Following the success of 2012, the festival has extended to two days, doubling the music on offer. Love Saves the Day gathers some of the freshest acts in electronic music. Saturday sees a full live performance from Bonobo, fresh off the back of new album 'The North Borders', and closing the festival on Sunday night is house music’s prodigal son Julio Bashmore. Over two days, the festival showcases the best and most diverse acts of the burgeoning electronic music scene, from drum and bass stalwarts Shy Fx and Breakage, everyone’s favourite tea aficionado and trip-hop legend Mr Scruff, through to rising stars Ghostpoet and Eats Everything. Alongside these acts is a whole host of drum and bass, house, dub and bass-heavy electronic music to keep you dancing through the day, and into the night well after the festival closes and the official afterparties at Motion and Lakota take over. Saturday’s afterparty takes place at Motion, with DJ sets from Eats Everything, Bonobo, Redlight and Oneman, whilst Sunday sees the crowds move to Lakota for sets from Simian Mobile Disco, Maxxi Soundsystem and more. At around £30 per day for the highest tier tickets, what better way to celebrate the end of term than dancing in a field to some of the best electronic music around? Acts to see: Saturday – Bonobo, Breakage, Shy FX, Joy Orbison, Seth Troxler, Mr Scruff, Alunageorge, Eats Everything Sunday – Julio Bashmore, Babyhead, Soom T, DJ Derek, Curtis Lynch and Mr Williams, Ghostpoet

Fancy a slice of Croatian pie? Redbrick Music have 2 tickets for SOUNDWAVE 2013 to give away! Visit redbrick.me/music for competition details.

26| 3rd - 30th May 2013 @RedbrickLifeStyle

Best Dressed at Coachella 2013 Online Music Editor Susie Dickey explores Coachella to find the best dresed Californian Chic at this years fashion festival 'Sublime. What is it about the French?'

'Elvis Presley meets Pope Bendict'

At the forefront of bohemian, hippy chic was Coco Pierrel, but then, would you expect any less of the wife of Francis Pierrel, CEO of Lacoste? Working Spring’s yellow trend to perfection, Coco’s floating, floral maxi gives an injection of style into the maxi trend. The glossy undone hair, adorned with the floral garland finishes off the 70s style with a flourish, and the oversized red sunglasses complement her skin tone and face shape perfectly. The ensemble is definitely one to draw inspiration from for festival styling; effortless and beautiful, with the exquisitely chosen accessories delivering an additional quirk. Sublime. What is it about the French?

Now, if someone pitched the idea of a loose fitting, white leather ensemble, my imagination would conjure up something entirely unsightly- sort of Elvis Presley meets Pope Benedict XVI. What Kate Bosworth accomplished at Coachella is much easier on the eyes. Combining Summer 13’s white-on-white trend with minimal jewellery and coordinating tan accessories, Bosworth achieves a low-maintenance look that perfectly suits the Coachella vibe whilst still being utterly chic. The scalloped edging and laser-cut details combined with those undone beachy waves give the outfit a delicate femininity, while the leather separates and aviator shades prevent the ensemble from wandering into the realm of girly and saccharine.

'Less is more'

Perfectly encapsulating the importance of staying true to your own style, Solange Knowles resembles a radiant, 60s starlet. Again we see the impact of the maxim 'less is more'. Her simple, lemon-print Alice & Olivia shift shows off toned limbs to perfection and, without excessive jewellery or accessories, the dress and heeled sandals are prevented from looking overdone. Natural hair and minimal make-up gives this more formal look a casual air. The simplicity of the outfit lends a maturity to festival style, while the bright colours and fruit print keep it looking carefree and youthful. Queen B may be beautiful but Solange can definitely work it on her own!

'A girlish flutter to her androgynous frame' Fashion-set favourite, Diane Kruger, took inspiration from the 80s with her Coachella look, and perfectly demonstrates how to master festival layering without the need to don a plastic rain mac. The rara skirt and Dolce & Gabbana leopard-print bag give a girlish flutter to her androgynous frame, but the oversized shearling-lined denim jacket prevents the outfit from looking fussy and overly fitted. The biker boots maintain the retro feel but also lend some practicality- always useful at a festival. Finally, the scraped-back hair stops her from stepping straight off the set of Saved by the Bell and finishes her edgy and quirky ensemble perfectly.

www.redbrick.me/lifestyle |27

The ‘90s Have Been Back for a While: But Why? Sophie Tollet

Airs: Nike Store

Life&Style Writer

Somewhere between reading Edgygirlleeds’s blog (let’s face it, by now most of you will have read it, laughed at it, and promptly felt oddly hurt - she seems to be making fun of our student existence, yet doing it all so much better than us) and my recent obsession with Dawson’s Creek (brought on by procrastination but significantly better than 90210) I started thinking: why is the ‘90s back? You will have had to have been living under a rock for the past year not to have noticed the hoards of vintage sports sweatshirts and Nike Airs wandering around campus, whilst high-waisted Levi shorts and creepers have long been the trademarks of hipsters. Wander on down to the next Seedy Sonics if you don’t believe me. Recently, however, the trend has reached new heights as Topshop have added a ‘Mom’ jean to their line of denim – think Jennifer Aniston

in early Friends. For someone who is regularly forced to lie down to do up my skinnies I’m not complaining: the jeans are surprisingly flattering. But really? Don’t we think it’s all a bit too soon to revive the decade we grew up in? I’m still a teenager but I’m finding myself aching for those dungarees my Mum is wearing in that snap of five-year-old me. I’m sure you’ve all had similar experiences; I once couldn’t believe she would have worn such items but now I’m wondering if she still has a pair. Obviously, trends originate from the catwalks, and anyone who’s seen Cara Delevigne in DKNY’s latest collaboration with Opening Ceremony (she’s sporting mini buns a la No Doubt Gwen Stefani circa 1996 in the ad campaign), can see where this is all coming from. So what is it about ‘90s style that hipsters just can’t get enough of? I think this obsession with the ‘90s brings us back to our generation’s love of equivocation. We have long passed the stage where

young people wear clothes that adults do not; even octogenarians are wearing jeans these days. As such, it seems we’re going to increasing lengths to immerse ourselves in a culture that ‘grown-ups’ just won’t understand. So, the way I see it, our generation has grabbed hold of the sweatshirts and ‘bad’ trainers partly because other generations just won’t get it. They’re difficult to pull off and teeter on the thin line between hideously naff and achingly cool. It’s in this line, it seems, that we find the reason for a revival taking place so soon after the original: its confusion to our parents only makes it that much more appealing. I’m sure in ten years we’ll look back and cringe at our ‘90s revival fashion choices, much like we cringed at the real ‘90s ten years ago.

Mom Jeans: Topshop £40

Tanning Myths: Busted

Abigale Duddridge Life&Style Writer

Whether you’re jetting off to the tropics or staying at home this summer, if you plan on being out in the sun, there are some facts you need to know. Malignant melanoma (the most dangerous form of skin cancer) is the second most common form of cancer amongst 15-24 year olds and exposure to the sun is one of the main risk factors. But never fear, Redbrick is here to bust the myths surrounding tanning so that you can stay safe this summer.

'Having a tan will stop me burning' A tan may slow down the rate at which you burn, but it doesn’t prevent burns altogether. Tans are, themselves, skin damage (not healthy), and increase the likelihood of premature skin ageing and skin cancer.

'Last year’s suncream is just as good as this year’s' Believe it or not, suncream has an expiry date. The ingredients that block harmful rays from damaging your skin break down over time, so that leftover cream from last year probably isn’t as effective as you think.

'I won’t burn on cool or cloudy days' It might look cloudy, but clouds still allow an estimated 80% of ultraviolet rays through, so you’re still at risk of burning. A nice cooling breeze on a hot day can be misleading. You might feel cool, but you’re just as exposed.

Fierce Alexandra Landes Life&Style Editor Revision Couture: As modelled by tiresome students in the learning centre; tracky pants, food stained jumpers and questionably greasy hair. Beyonce: Queen B kicked off her UK tour dates right here in sunny Btown! And my god, was it fierce. Royal Visit: Prince Harry casting a spell over all of us with his recent visit to Warner Brother StudiosPotter and the Royals? It’s like our Christmas and Birthday have all come at once. Gwyneth Paltrow: The 40 year old babe reigniting her MILF status at the Iron Man 3 Premier, flashing a cheeky bit of side bum in her Antonio Berard dress. The Vogue Festival: Currently rocking the Southbank centre in London, with speakers such as Paul Smith, Alexa Chung and Victoria Beckham. We know where we’d rather be.

JLS: Will our hearts ever beat again? Probably yes, but it’s still a shame the boy band who reached the high accolade of having their own brand of condoms is splitting up. More Magazine: More is no more! We’re gonna miss its Barbie dolls and their questionable sex positions. Christopher Maloney: The mediocre diva has gone and got himself a record deal can’t wait for that album. PSY: Following his hit Gangham Style, PSY has released an equally as annoying and bizarre “hit”, that has managed to get an impressive 244 million hits on YouTube in two weeks. Going out guilt: I know I should be in the library, but it’s a Tuesday- and I all I want to do is get stupid. Spencer Matthews: Has anybody deserved a slap in the face more? #MIC

Finished

Disappointment for

28 | 3rd - 30th May 2013

@RedbrickSport

Women's Hockey

Birmingham 1sts

Durham 1sts

Ellie Jones Sport Correspondent

@EllieJones_bham

In one of the highlights of the BUCS hockey finals, the Birmingham girls took on arch-rivals Durham for the title of Women's Hockey Champions. The sides had met five times before, with Durham just pinching top spot last year. The game started with equal opportunities for both sides, and it was clear the Durham attack was strong but Birmingham’s well-renowned defence kept out the pushing advances. An early free shot for Durham gave their girls field possession and once again the Brum defence had to work hard. Thankfully central defender Rebecca Van Berkel was ready and waiting to protect goalkeeper Polly Oakman from any Durham shots on goal. With Birmingham back in possession the midfield players, orchestrated brilliantly by captain Alice Sharp, had the chance to break, and once they got it to Emily Defroand she did just that. A quick flick to Olivia Chilton and back to the stick of Defroand, with the keeper nowhere in sight, Birmingham slotted in their first goal. Brum’s spirits were high and Durham had to work hard to regain the ball, and when they did Birmingham’s watertight defence made it hard for them to take advantage. A shot on target by Cherry Seaborn was saved convincingly by Oakman and a couple of minutes later the nerves were starting to show with a huge overhit shot by Anna Thompson. Despite the many attacks from the Durham team, Birmingham had an equal

amount of chances, and just before half time a tackle from the opposing goalkeeper gave Birmingham a penalty flick. Goal scorer and all-rounder Emily Defroand stepped up to take the penalty, but goalkeeper Alice Stuart-Grumbar made a brilliant save to keep the 1-0 deficit. The second half saw a more determined Durham take to the pitch and instantly they were awarded two short corners in a row, after a suspected deliberate stick tackle from Holly Payne. The ball was eventually cleared away by a scrambling Birmingham defence. But not for long as the Durham forwards attacked again. Another short corner put the Brum defence under real pressure but as many balls before had been, it was cleared to open space. It was not long however before Birmingham’s defence finally succumbed to the pressure. A late ball to Van Berkel was miscontrolled and set Durham’s Seaborn free from the defence, with a one-on-one opportunity, and unfortunately for Brum she rounded the keeper to make the score line equal. Birmingham were shell shocked and started to give away soft short corners, which Durham were bound to utilise eventually. The pressure was definitely showing and misconduct by Rebecca Watkins saw a yellow card for the Birmingham centre. With a player down Durham took full advantage and a short corner by Seaborn set Joanna Lane up for Durham’s second and winning goal. Despite more fleeting attacks from Birmingham by Alice Sharp and Faye Curran, time had run out for the girls in blue and their moments of weakness had cost them. What had started off as an equally fought game for the girls turned out to be another Durham win and Birmingham are runners up yet again. Charlotte Wilson

1st teams in Leeds Men's Hockey

Birmingham 1sts Shefﬁeld Hallam 1sts

3 5

Felix Keith Sport Editor

@FelixKeith

The men’s 1st hockey team suffered a 5-3 loss in the BUCS Championship final at the hands of Sheffield Hallam. Birmingham were punished by successive short corners and, despite a late comeback, fell short at a cold Leeds Met pitch. In a tight first half Birmingham held their own, with a half-court press effective in constraining Sheffield. Chances were at a premium to begin with, with Harry Loxton managing to find some space down the left flank, but failing to really threaten the goal. Brum were happy to allow Hallam possession in their half and looked to hit them on the break. Hallam struggled to penetrate the defence with their aerial approach particularly ineffective. Both goalkeepers were in good form in the first period with Sheffield’s number one Simon Hujwan first denying Pete Jackson from a short corner and Brum’s Patrick Smith rushing off his line to block a Martin Sutherland shot moments later. Sheffield’s defence continually frustrated Brum’s attackers rushing to block any half chance in the D. Both Ben Stoney and captain Will Byas had goal bound shots blocked. With the first half drawing to a close Hallam were awarded a short corner and Brum were reduced to 10 men when Patrick McDowell received a yellow card for a trip on an attacker. From the resulting short corner Hallam showed their particular strength as Mike Shaw drag-flicked an unstoppable shot into the top corner to make the score at halftime 1-0. A few minutes into the second period Hallam doubled their lead when Martin Sutherland deflected a shot from the edge of the D past Smith. Birmingham were put under sustained pressure when minutes later Jackson was yellow carded for deliberately stopping the ball with @Wilsonscribbles

www.redbrick.me/sports | 29

his hand. Somewhat against the run of play, Birmingham halved the deficit ten minutes later. Richard Gear-Evans drove to the by-line and delivered the ball for Richard Marshall who finished from close range to make the score 2-1. Unfortunately for Brum, minutes later Sheffield opened up a two goal lead again. A short corner was awarded for a foot foul and again Mike Shaw smashed a powerful shot into the bottom right corner to leave Smith with no chance. Birmingham looked to get back into the game and must have thought they had scored minutes later. Byas got to the byline and found Nick Bandurak at the back post, but his high shot was beaten away by a diving Hujwan. With Birmingham committing more players forward, there was bound to be space for Hallam to exploit. And they did so on 60 minutes when a three on two situation developed; the ball was squared for David Goodfield to tap in, to make the score 4-1. The goal scorer was then yellow carded and Brum took advantage to give themselves a fighting chance. First Jackson benefitted from a rebound from a short corner to flick Brum’s second goal into the top corner. Marshall then had two point-blank efforts saved by Hujwan and it seemed that they’d left the comeback too late. However, they found a third goal when Will Martin’s driven ball took a deflection and found its way into the bottom corner to make the score 4-3 and set up a nervy finish. Brum came very close to an equaliser when Bandurak flashed a powerful reverse stick shot across the D, but it flew agonisingly wide. Birmingham were throwing the kitchen sink at Sheffield in search of the equaliser and had Tom Beaumont kicking back in place of goalkeeper Smith. This proved their undoing when Sheffield completed the victory with captain Phil Roper finishing into an empty goal in the final seconds. In a frenetic second half comeback, Birmingham fell just short of taking the game into extra time. Despite falling at the final hurdle, Birmingham can be pleased with a great cup run which included an away win at rivals Loughborough and a fantastic semi-final victory over Nottingham.

30 | 3rd - 30th May 2013

Squash teams fall at the final hurdle Sam Price Sport Correspondent

It’s been quite a season for the University of Birmingham squash club. Collectively the six teams have amassed three league titles, and the squad’s strength in depth is illustrated by the fact that they’ve recorded the second highest BUCS points total of any university club, behind only Loughborough’s powerful swimming set-up. Both the men and women’s second teams won their BUCS Trophy finals on the Tuesday, with Peter Fozard and Charlotte Losson playing starring roles, and it was now left to the first teams to travel to Leeds as part of BUCS Big Wednesday in an attempt to cap off a remarkable year by beating Nottingham and Leeds Met respectively. At two sets to one up in the pivotal second match of the men’s final, it looked as if Oliver Rawlins was going to ensure that Birmingham would indeed return with gold medals. On court two, Rob Luke, promoted to the first team in the most important match of the season to replace the unavailable Ashlee Harris, had got the men off to the perfect start by impressively seeing off his ganglier, less mobile opponent Alex Dakin in straight sets. And having narrowly lost the first set 11-9, Rawlins had shown superb battling qualities to haul back the tenacious Rory Birtwistle, and needed just one more to set up what could have been an unassailable 2-0 lead for Birmingham. Alas, Birtwistle stepped it up in the fourth set, using his fitness and agility to keep the ball alive during some gruelling rallies to force errors from Rawlins, whose play became slightly too passive in response to the resurgent Birtwistle. The Notts number three seed, who was awarded player of the tournament at the trophy presentation, was able to hang on in an attritional fifth to win 11-9, 5-11, 8-11, 11-8, 11-5, and land a key psychological as well as mathematical blow to Birmingham’s chances. Although Oliver Mapp played a blinder to defeat Nottingham number one Dave Wardle in four, the absence of Birmingham’s usual top seed Harris took its toll, as Josh Taylor and Scott Young succumbed in straights to tough opposition, giving Notts a 3-2 overall victory. Birmingham were bitterly disappointed to lose to a team who they had beaten to the league title, but skipper Taylor was rightly proud of his side’s achievements in the aftermath. ‘It’s been such a strong season for us, we won the local league, won the BUCS league, it’s just unfortunate we couldn’t finish it off with a big win here. All the guys fought really strongly so it’s just one of those things.’ Earlier in the day the women had also fallen short when losing 3-1 to a strong Leeds Met outfit, who claimed their fifth successive BUCS Championship

title. The difficulty of the task had been spelled out immediately by the hosts, whose player-coach Kirsty McPhee played at her imperious best to dispatch long-time rival Katie Quarterman 11-5, 11-4, 11-5. This could have set the tone for a one-sided contest, but Birmingham rallied when Hannah Vaughan, having lost the first set 11-7, found her rhythm and consistency to set up game point at 10-9 in the fourth against Carnegie’s Sophie Wallis. A stunning 30-shot rally ensued, in which Vaughan retrieved the ball from every position on the court before eventually forcing a botched volley from Wallis to put the final in the balance at 1-1. ‘I reassessed the situation in between the first and second game, and just went back on court, played my own game, stayed calm, and it worked out’, explained Vaughan, who now assumed a supporting role as Jess Mudge and Nia Davies attempted to force an unlikely victory. Both Mudge and Davies played some super squash in their respective matches, but a sense of what might have been lingered after both contests. Mudge, playing against the stony-faced Chloe Pearson, who was ranked number two at England under-19 level last year, was outclassed in the first two sets, but, sensing complacency, battled back in the third and created a game point before going down 12-10. Similarly, having lost the first two sets, Davies was the better player in the exciting third set of her clash with Jess Dixon, when she manufactured a number of game points but unfortunately couldn’t take them, allowing Dixon to prevail 15-13 and wrap up the Championship for Leeds Met. Mudge and Davies will be back next year for Brum, but the final represented an emotional farewell for Vaughan and influential captain Quarterman, for whom the overriding feeling was one of disappointment. ‘The whole team had trained so hard for this and I just really wanted us to win, so I’m gutted to go out on a loss’, she reflected. A disappointing day for Birmingham, then, but two sets of gold medals and two sets of silver medals is not a bad return for this year’s assault on the cup competitions. Indeed, it’s been a fantastic season for the club as a whole, in part down to the hard work of professional coach Jon Tate, who was able to take many positives from the day, and predicts a bright future for the teams. ‘We’ve been pleased with the strength of the squad as a whole, they work hard, they train hard and they’re trying to develop their games. We’ve got to keep trying to get as far through these competitions as we can, and keep telling people that Birmingham’s the place to come if you want to improve your squash’.

Siobhan Knight

Netball team push for Premiership promotion Netball

Birmingham 1sts

Edinburgh 1sts

Joanne Clarke Sport Correspondent

The University of Birmingham netball 1sts continued their triumphant season when the talented squad faced Edinburgh University last Wednesday in the first round of the British Universities and College Sports (BUCS) Premier North play-offs at the Munrow Sport Centre. Birmingham proved an unstoppable force, as they defeated the opposition 48-22, and edged themselves a step closer to promotion. The home side got off to a slow start, as the visitors fought to pull ahead within the first fifteen minutes of the game. However, Birmingham shooters Philly Koelhi and Jazz Hatherly worked well under the pressure, showing some excellent skill and accuracy in the shooting circle, ending the first quarter 9-5. Despite an unforeseen substitution of vice-captain and centre-court player Ellie Townsend, the players maintained their lead in the second quarter ahead of the struggling opposition. Edinburgh increasingly failed to break through the defensive wall, as Birmingham defenders Sarah Bishton and Rose Walker put pressure on the surrounding circle. Captain and wing-defence, Lucia Karonias, also produced some excellent interceptions, giving the Birmingham team confidence to pull ahead by eleven points. The girls looked unstoppable heading into the third quarter, and with great support from the home crowd, the team stepped it up for the penultimate fifteen minutes of the game. Wing-attack Hayley Cockshott added to the strength of the team, with a combination of speed and impressive interceptions helping establish the team’s position. The team’s successful attack was mirrored by teammate Laura Price, who skillfully brought the ball up the court towards the shooting circle, to be met by first year Hatherly. The attack produced a combination of clever and efficient play to end the quarter 34-15. The team took advantage of substitutions in the final fifteen minutes, as Hannah Aldcroft, Gina Nicholls and Lauren Williams stepped onto the court. The fresh legs and impressive fitness proved advantageous for Brum, with goal-shooter Nicholls fitting smoothly into the attacking format and demonstrating remarkable shooting accuracy. Scholar Ellie Townsend also returned to the court for the final push and proceeded to dominate the centre court, with wing-defence Hannah Aldcroft also providing excellent support and commitment. A remarkable interception by defender Lauren Williams was met with a loud roar from the home crowd and typified the away side’s loss of confidence. Williams continued to work alongside keeper Amie Napper to break down the struggling attack. Napper demonstrated inspiring focus, as she continued to read the game and cut off much of the attacking play, leaving the shooters with a minimal part to play. The team continued to show excellent enthusiasm until the final whistle, with the score ending 48-22 and securing a well-earned win for the Birmingham team. ‘The girls have done the club proud in the playoffs today. The attack were slick and efficient, whilst the defence were reliable and brought the ball down the court well’, said club captain Natalie Klays. Natalie added: ‘This game highlights the club’s increasing success, and proves why the first team have remained unbeaten in the league this season.' The girls will face an away trip to Northumbria University on 8th May. Despite losing to Northumbria in a recent cup final clash, the Brum team are determined to come away with a positive result and secure promotion to the Premiership Division.

www.redbrick.me/sports | 31

Page 31 A quick word...

Tweet of the Week

Online this week @MichaelVaughan English teams in Europe Chesney Hughes The Derbyshire batsman scored 270 not out at Headingley against Yorkshire in a County Championship game. The opener hit 40 fours in a nine hour stand, but eventually ran out of partners to bat with. As a result the 22-year-old's average went up by five.

Jason Collins The NBA vetran made history this week by becoming the first openly gay athlete in any of the major proffessional US sports. The 12 yeat vetran is currently a free agent and if he does find a team to play for, will surely become a role model for up and coming athletes thinking about coming out.

On the former Olympic gold meadlaists retirement from boxing: 'Leave Audley alone, he never hurt anyone...'

Ross Highfield takes a look at English team's failures in the Champions League and says its too early to condemn the Premier League as weak.

Weekend Wager

Evens

Player of the Year

This week Bradley Wiggins has been talking about his chances of winning the Tour de France and competing against teammate Chris Froome. But leaving that aside, we are making him our favourite to win the Giro d'Italia and claim his first pink jersey.

Ed Tyler looks at the player of the year awards and gives his take on the nominees and winners.

Redbrick Sport Quiz 1. How many Olympic medals has Michael Phelps won?

Champions League

2. Which golfer has won the most Green Jackets? 3. Who is England's most capped Test cricketer? 4. Where do the Boston Red Sox play their home games?

Ed Tyler assesses the two semi-finals and how the final at Wembley will take shape.

5. Who won the men's London Marathon in 2013?

This week saw the 50th anniversary of the first ever game of one day cricket. On 1st May 1963 Lancashire played Leicestershire in a match lasting 65 overs aside. Lancashire batted first, scoring 304 at a speedy 4.67 runs an over. Leicestershire came up 100 runs short. One day cricket was born and it has undoubtedly changed the sport forever. From Kerry Packer's world series cricket to the more recent invention of T20, cricket has never been the same again. If we look back at the state of the game in 1963 and compare it to now, it is clear that cricket has become a much more professional and athletic game. Money has been plowed into the sport globally, with the IPL the most obvious example of this. It can all be traced back to that one day match at Old Trafford. But at what cost? First class county cricket has never been in poorer health, with attendances down and popularity waning. Counties are increasingly reliant on financing from the ECB to make money, and the game in England is often being dictated to by the BCCI. The commercialisation of the game has bought money to a few, but at the cost of the game. When I look at the IPL that old addage comes to mind:'It's just not cricket'.

1. 22 2.Jack Nicklaus 3 Alec Stewart 4.Alec Stewart 5. Tsegaye Kebede Semi-Professional Mediums

Aries Fun and flirty, you are the life of the party. May will be a troubling time for you, with important exams or essay deadlines. Luckily, you'll meet a dark handsome stranger in 3C of Main Library. Taurus As Saturn comes into the third phase of its twelth moon, you will be overcharged in Tesco. As a fun and flirty Taurus, you are the serious type, always ready with a smile and a wink for that special someone. Gemini With your fun and flirtatious

Eufemiano Fuentes The Spanish doctor behind one of sports biggest doping rings recieved a one year suspended sentence for endangering public health. The seven year case has however only addressed the tip of sports' most worrying icebergs. Joao Havelange The 96 year old resigned as FIFA's honorary president after a report surfaced that he'd accepted bribes. He was described as 'morally and ethically reproachable' by the report. This move hopefully singals the changing of the very old, corrupt and backwards guard.

Interested in being part of Redbrick Sport? Get in touch: sports@redbrick.me @redbricksports Redbrick Sport

The Redbrick Horoscope Matt Saull and Donovan Mike

...and Villains

Say hello to your future, with Redbrick's fun and flirty new feature!

personality, everything's falling into place. A troubling financial matter has recently been solved. A mysterious benefactor has loaned you some money at a competitive rate of interest, and suddenly you're ready to flourish winthin yourself.

Virgo Fun and flirty are your middle names - despite being renowned for your dour and unadventurous personality. You've moved recently - perhaps from the countryside the to the UK's second largest metropolis?

thirty twelth quadrant, you're going to be lucky in love. As it turns out, the sex-pot who saw you drunkenly soil yourself on a night out last week thought it was one of the funniest, flirtiest things they've ever seen and has been dying to get their hands on your number.

Cancer. You know what, you're the fucking best. Fun, flirtatious and sassy, you are the life of the party. Text that mysterious stranger from Mechu: he plays for Aston Villa. Your beard is the envy of all your girlfriends, despite what they say.

Libra You will forget to take plastic bags on your trip to Aldi. Struggling home with your shopping perched in a carboard box, your milk will fall out and litter Dawlish Road. You're fun and flirty, but that doesn't help in this predicament.

Sagittarius You have the luck of Uranus on your side this month! Use it wisely in your exams, or alternatively don't. I don't care, it's your life decision. You're fun and flirty.

Leo You're a lion, you don't need horoscopes.

Scorpio As your moon moves into the

Capricorn Fun and flirty are your first and last names. Although you once cursed your parents for christening you thus, it's pay-

ing off now, and you will be the life of the party at the Maple Bank Summer Ball. Aquarius Meow, you are the cat that got the cream! The Selly Oak Police Department are still looking for the shoplifter who stole that quart of milk from Tesco Express, but until they find you, you're fun, flirtatious and dairy free. Pisces The seventh moon of Pluto has been seen invading the fourth phase of Jupiter's spin cycle. Astronomers have described its orbital path as 'fun' and 'flirty'.

32 |3rd - 30th May 2013

www.redbrick.me/sport

Playoff Push

BUCS Finals

Joanne Clarke writes about the netball 1st team's push for promotion against Edinburgh

Felix Keith and Elllie Jones recap the other two Birmingham hockey teams' that went to Leeds for BUCS finals day

RedbrickSport

p28-29

p30

Charlotte Wilson

@Wilsonscribbles

Men's Hockey

Birmingham 2nds

Manchester 1sts

(Birmingham won 5-4 on penalties)

Tim Pearson Sport Editor

The Birmingham men’s second team went up to Leeds and won BUCS gold on penalty flicks against Manchester’s first team. The match itself finished 2-2 after extra time. Birmingham scored all five of their flicks, with their goalkeeper, Ashwin Raj, saving Manchester’s first, handing Brum the victory. Early on in the game it looked like it would be a different story. Manchester were dominant, keeping hold of possession whilst Birmingham struggled to gain a foothold in the game. Indeed it was Manchester who had the first clearcut chance of the match from a short corner, which Raj saved sharply. This was to become a theme throughout the game.

But despite this it was Birmingham who made the first breakthrough 20 minutes in. Against the run of play the umpire awarded a dubious short corner for Brum after seeing a stick tackle, which was duly converted by Will Selfe, beating a defender before putting the ball through Manchester goalkeeper Tom Richmond’s legs. Buoyed by the arrival of two coach loads of Birmingham supporters, they began to look more comfortable and had the better chances to double their lead, with Selfe unable to convert a second short corner. At the half Birmingham went in 1-0 up and looked to be on course for the win. But as is often the case, the game changed complexion after half time. Right from the start, there was potency about Manchester’s play; Phil Dutoy’s vicious shot, which was deflected wide, was a warning sign to Birmingham not to get complacent. But three minutes later Manchester made their pressure count. A short corner flicked by Rob Trem rebounded to Andy Clemerson, whose shot was also saved. In the ensuing melee the ball

found its way back to Trem who this time buried the ball into the right hand corner of the goal. Raj’s defences had been breached and at 1-1 the game was anyone’s to win. Manchester’s goal welcomed in a period of dominance, but the Birmingham defence held strong for long enough before Brum were to score again against the run of play. On 55 minutes a terrific pass by Joe Hillyer across the goal beat the keeper, leaving Henry Addleston with the simplest of finishes to reclaim their lead. With fifteen minutes left the tie became a lot more frantic, Manchester pushing for the equaliser and Birmingham trying to hold on. Short corner after short corner came for Manchester, yet they were unable to convert any; Raj in goal again proving his worth to Brum helped by Manchester’s poor corner routines. However there was to be late drama. With just minutes remaining, a Manchester shot from the left, which was destined for the goal, was stopped on the line by a Brum defender, and brought Dukoy to the penalty spot. He

duly converted and Manchester levelled the game up with a minute remaining. This game was heading to golden goal. It was clear both teams were nervous, but Birmingham’s ill discipline threatened to cost them in the extra periods. A yellow card for Matt Dunn handed the advantage to Manchester but they again were unable to convert their chances. Birmingham also had a guilt-edged chance to take home the spoils when Hillyer put the ball over the bar following a goalmouth scramble which should have finished the tie. The crowd was to be treated to further drama as the match was taken to penalty flicks. Penalties always does seem like the cruellest way to decide a tie, in particular a final, so it would come down to who could hold their nerve. It was Kieran Mullholland who had the crucial miss for Manchester, although much of the credit should go to Raj once more, who pulled off a wonderful diving save to his right. It was left to Sam Tombs to score the last flick to hand Birmingham victory in a terrific cup final, 5-4 on penalties.