Seren - 176 - 2003-2004 - February 2004

seren

BISTRO: BIG MISTAKE

FEBRUARY 2004 - THE OFFICIAL ENGLISH-LANGUAGE NEWSPAPER OF UWB STUDENTS’ UNION

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ince September, a storm has been brewing between the students on the Ffriddoedd Site and ‘Croeso Welcome Bangor’.

It all stems from the transformation of the old ‘self-service’ Ceris dining room into a table-service bistro.

This has led to major problems for the customers, who have endured waiting times of around half an hour for meals, as well as increased prices. ‘Croeso Welcome Bangor’, the group in charge of the catering facilities, have also CONTINUED ON PAGE 3

INSIDE

NEWS,VIEWS,MOVIES,MUSIC,LIFESTYLE,SPORT AND MORE!

2 FEBRUARY 2004

seren

STUDENTS’S UNION, STUDENTS’S UNION, DEINIOL ROAD, BANGOR, DEINIOL ROAD, BANGOR, GWYNEDD, LL57LL57 2TH 2TH GWYNEDD, Tel: (01248) 388017 Tel: (01248) 388017 EDITOR - Clare Chadwick Editor editor@seren.bangor.ac.uk

Production Assoc. Editor PRODUCTION - Daniel Turner News production@seren.bangor.ac.uk Sports NEWS - Matt Jarratt Lifestyle news@seren.bangor.ac.uk Music Movies SPORTS - Keyan Milanian Culture sports@seren.bangor.ac.uk AOB MOVIES - Rob Harris movies@seren.bangor.ac.uk MUSIC- Manoj Koeri music@seren.bangor.ac.uk LIFESTYLE - Gemma Buckley-Roberts lifestyle@seren.bangor.ac.uk Contributers: Ben Summers, Tim (The Don) Healey, Emma Roose, Amy Poole, Stephanie McEvoy, Cedric Krummes, Duncan Jane, Andy Tobutt, Erin Swails, Jayne Entwistle, Katherine Croft, Sam Burnett What is Seren?

Seren is the official English-language newspaper of the Students’ Union of the University of Wales, Bangor. It is written and produced entirely by students and is published monthly during term time.

Get involved!

If you’d like to write for Seren, or get involved in any other way, e-mail the relevant section editor or contact the editor directly at editor@s eren.bangor.ac.uk.

CONTENTS

Page 4 RAG Week Page 5 Smoking Debate Page 6 S.U. Elections Page 8 Lizzard Mission Page 10 Valentines Messages Page 12 Cheggers Interview Page 13 Films Page 16 Seren Give-Aways Page 17 Sport

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Letter from the Editor.

Hi and welcome to another issue of Seren. This time we’re all loved up for Valentines Day so we took on the role of Cupid and have been helping some of you declare your undying love for each other on our Valentines Messages page. We’ve been having a lot of fun recently; getting naked with each other for the Clubs and Societies Calendar (see below), and accosting drunk students in Time to buy our raffle tickets (prizes included chocolate body spread and furry handcuffs). With a fair bit of help (smooth talking) from Alec (Station Manager of Storm FM) we managed to raise £60 from raffle ticket and Valentines message sales. Thank you to everybody who bought a ticket and put a message in Seren. Costos, hope you’re enjoying the body spread!

There’s been loads of stuff going on in Bangor recently, most notably RAG week. The notorious team have this year convinced students to abseil down the Main Arts tower this Saturday (14th Feb) and it’s not too late to take part. I’m going to be there doing the abseil and taking photos for our next issue of Seren so make sure you come along and get involved!

I’m particularly pleased with our competitions page which we have introduced this time. Prizes you can win include bottles of Malibu, Young Persons Railcards, Topshop/Man vouchers and another mobile phone from O2. Make sure you email me with your answers by the end of next week to be in with a chance of winning.

Manoj Koeri, our music editor, has done really well this month, he’s managed to get an interview with the band “Lost Prophets” on the 12th in Birmingham, so make sure you check out the music section in next issue for that and some signed stuff from them, which I’m sure we’ll be able to blag for you!

Other than that, all I have left to do is complain that I was clamped in the Simply Tan car park last week, which I suppose I deserved, seeing as it meant they couldn’t close the car park because I was parked there. But even so, it’s still bang out of order (it was a Sunday, who clamps on a Sunday?). If anyone has a clamp please let me know so I can begin my campaign to clamp the clampers. Illegal? Moi? Oh and I also got locked in the girls toilets for fifteen minutes near the PJ Hall in Main Arts. The door wouldn’t open and nobody else was in there to help. THAT’S why girls don’t go to the loo on their own. I was eventually rescued but nothings been done about the door yet, so be careful ladies!

Well I hope you enjoy this issue, good luck with our competitions and come see us at our stall at Serendipity 2 on Friday 13th February in Main Bar, 12 till 4pm.

Clare Chadwick, Seren Editor

NEWS

NEWS

Briefly...

FEBRUARY 2004 3

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BISTRO’S DAYS NUMBERED

BANKRUPT STUDENTS The number of students writing off loan debts by declaring themselves bankrupt more than tripled in 2003, government figures showed yesterday. According to the Student Loans Company, 899 students filed for bankruptcy last year, compared with 276 in 2002.

BOUNCER FACES JAIL OVER STUDENTS EXPLODING EYEBALL A nightclub bouncer is facing jail after being found guilty of pushing his walkie-talkie into a student’s face so hard it caused his eyeball to explode.

Martin White, 26, of Thornbury, South Gloucestershire, drove the walkie-talkie into the eye of a law student who had fallen asleep in a club after celebrating his end of exams.

White was convicted at Bristol Crown Court of causing grievous bodily harm with intent and assault occasioning actual bodily harm.

David Lowe, 25, was celebrating the end of his legal practice course exams at Bristol’s University of the West of England in the city’s Lizard Lounge nightclub in 2002 Mr Lowe needed four hours of eye surgery and was left blind in his left eye. He was disfigured and had fractures to his shoulder and carpet burns to his back. His co-ordination and depth of perception have been affected and he now wears a cosmetic shelf to build up the left side of his face.

LIFE FOR DRUNKEN STUDENT MURDER A student who stabbed his flatmate more than 80 times in a drunken rage has been given a life sentence for murder.

Adam Davies, 20, and Saif Mahmood, 21, both of Brunel University, had drunk a bottle of tequila and scotch between them before the “frenzied attack” in January 2003.

Davies claimed robbers had broken into their flat in Uxbridge, west London and killed his flatmate. But he was convicted of murder and given a life sentence on Friday at the Old Bailey, to serve at least 14 years.

CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE

suffered from the venture, with rumoured losses running into tens of thousands.

Rumours have spread about potential job losses, and the Ffridd JCR committee have put increasing pressure onto John Sherlock, the catering manager, for changes to be made. These are changes which are now happening; the Bistro is in the process of being re-converted into a self-service facility and will begin trading as such on Monday 16 February.

The room in which the Bistro has been based since September will now be devoted solely to seating, and the

Kate Lewis – 3rd Year History

By Matt Jarratt original dining room will now contain the food counter, as it was before the summer. Alexa Follen, the Chair Person of the Ffridd JCR Committee is pleased by the changes, which she says: ‘mirror the changes desired by students’.

Another problem however, is that as a result of the losses, prices in the shop as well as the Bistro have risen sharply. Crisps and chocolate bars retail for up to 55p, Pot Noodle’s are 95p, and a 2 litre bottle of Coca-Cola will set you back £1.99. (to put this into some

Phil Prophett – 3rd Year History

perspective, you would not expect to pay this in a petrol station) Alexa Follen is very concerned about this, and John Sherlock acknowledges that some ‘mistakes’ were made during the price re-structuring in the shop before Christmas, but adds that the prices are ‘currently under review’.

Emily Clark - 1st Year Music

Claire Carter - 1st Year Psychology

UNIVERSITY CHALLENGE Bangor’s University Challenge team made it through to the second round of the ‘quiz of quizzes’: University Challenge, before being beaten by a team from Jesus College Cambridge. The question is: could you have fared better?

Those interested in being considered for next year’s team should contact press@bangor.ac.uk

“Yes I really want to see it go back to how it was last year, it was much better then.

Generally the prices are ok, but maybe it’s a bit overpriced for what you get”

“It was a lot easier to use last year, this is just complicated.

I’m looking forward to the changes, and it is a bit overpriced”

“It’s crap – to be blunt. We’ve complained about it and I’m glad they’re making changes.

We’re catered students and the food’s much too expensive to live off!”

“The service takes ages – sometimes you get the meal before the drink. You can end up waiting for so long, and when it comes its often cold”

4 FEBRUARY 2004

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NEWS

Students Abseil down University

building for RAG Week!

RAG is simply short for ‘Raise and Give’, and we aim to make money mainly for local charities as a way for the university to give something back to the community.

RAG week is our main way of doing this as all money raised in the week goes back into local charities. This year our charities are Barnados Wales, NSPCC Wales, St. David’s Hospice, Llandudno, St. Mary’s Hostel, Bangor, Meningitis Research Wales and Women’s Refuge Bangor.

The week began on the 8th February and continues to the 14th, and every day a fun event will be held to attract students and people from the local community to come along and empty their pockets of all their loose change. The events this week have so

far included a balloon launch and traffic light party in Time/Amser, not to mention a very successful Ann Summer’s Party done jointly with Bangor Women’s Group, in Main Bar. This Thursday (12th February) a Scavenger Hunt Final will take place in the Belle Vue from 7pm – 10pm. The fun-filled week will conclude with an abseil down Main Art’s Tower on Saturday 14th February. We are hoping that everyone, students and locals will want to be involved with at least one event. Already this year we have raised money for Help the Aged, and Children in need and we held the fantastic ‘bring a banana’ night in Amser/Time jointly with Student Volunteering. We hope RAG week will be a huge success and continue our great work for this year.

Get a Job at the ‘Time for Work’ Fair Tuesday 2nd March For the first time at this new venue, the Centre for Careers & Opportunities in partnership with the Job Centre Plus, is holding a Spring Jobs Fair. The event will have around 40 local employers who are recruiting for a variety of positions on a permanent, temporary, full time and part

time basis. So if you would like to book a display stand then contact the Employer Liaison Officer on 01248 383586 or if you fancy a new career come along between the hours of 2pm and 6pm to Time Nightclub, Students Union, Deiniol Road.

Think safe, drink safe Nightline is recruiting SU Advice Centre launches new campaign

‘Think safe! Drink safe!’ – that’s the message being put across as a campaign gets underway to raise awareness of the issues surrounding drink spiking.

Katherine Croft, Advice and Representation Officer at Bangor Students’ Union is spearheading the campaign with the aid of officers from North Wales Police and local nightclub Amser/Time, who are keen to spread the message of safe drinking to their customers.

Drink spiking is a rare occurrence, especially in North Wales, but Katherine feels it is important to get this message across to men and women of all ages: “There are a lot of misconceptions about drink spiking – any drinks can get spiked – tea, coffee, it’s not just alcohol.” According to statistics from the Roofie Foundation, an organisation that provides help and support for those who have been through the experience of drug assisted rape or sexual assault, nearly 12% o f calls to their helpline are from men. They are also keen to stress that attacks have been

reported from people of every age group, across all ethnic groups.

Amnesia is a common symptom of the drugs used in drink spiking – and as a result such incidents often go unreported to the police, as the victim has little or no recollection of events. This, along with the fact that most of the drugs are metabolised within 48 hours, makes it difficult to get proof of drug assisted rape.

Katherine adds: “One thing we are trying to get across is that the most common drug used in drink spiking is alcohol itself. The aim of the campaign is to educate people and make them more aware of the facts.” The campaign launches on Thursday 12th February at 7.30pm in the Curved Lounge of Amser/Time with a talk from North Wales Police worker Ian Williams and Melfyn Thomas from the local Health Authority. All are welcome to attend.

Nightline provides a confidential listening and information service for all students of the University of Wales, Bangor. We are looking for students who are prepared to stay up all night as a Nightline volunteer.

Full training is provided along with all the caffeine you need! We only ask for 3 duties per semester from each volunteer and you can gain valuable skills along the way. Unfortunately we cannot accept final year students this time.

CAN YOU ACCEPT THE CHALLENGE? Your first mission is to attend an initial contact meeting with the Nightline co-ordinator and/ or a member of the Student Advice centre. These meetings take place at the Student Advice Centre (third floor of the union) and will be advertised shortly so keep your eyes peeled.

Training is the evening of Friday 5th March until about 9pm, Saturday 6th and Sunday 7th March 9am-5pm, it is completely free, with talks from outside organisations.

Lunch and refreshments are provided free of charge.

DARE YOU GIVE IT A TRY? Nightline – Information and Conversation 01248 362121 nightline@undeb.bangor.ac.uk

NEWS

FEBRUARY 2004 5

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DEBATE RAGES OVER SMOKING IN FFRIDD COFFEE SHOP Ffridd Thirteenth O

n Friday 13th February, the Ffriddoedd Site is playing host to a massive music event. Live bands and DJs specialising in popular and alternative music are all playing exclusively for the Ffriddoedd Site ball, “Ffridd Thirteenth”.

Ffridd Thirteenth is a huge event that includes the whole of the Ffriddoedd Site and everyone is welcome.

In the Ffridd Bar you can expect not only a live cover band but later in the evening for those with dancing feet, there is also a cheesy disco playing popular tunes late into the night.

However, for those with an alternate musical taste, the Bistro will be playing host to a live jazz band, followed by the highly popular Racubah that has previously played in Main Bar and Hendre Hall.

By Amy-Louise Poole

I

t is not surprising that discussions to introduce a new anti-smoking bill into the U.K are sparking mixed opinions. In Wales in particular, Baroness Finlay has proposed a bill to the House of Commons to ban smoking in public places, contradictory to the Government’s decision not to impose an outright ban on public smoking.

smoking, especially in such a social location would be highly controversial. They see smoking as a social pastime. With peer pressure being labelled as one of the main causes of so many young adults deciding to smoke, many of the smokers I interviewed explained that their decision to start smoking was their own, and not a result of peer pressure.

This news from the Government will diminish restaurateurs and pub owners’ fears of a loss of trade which would arise from such a ban.

However, health associations have addressed rising fears of passive smoking and its health implications, and condemn the Government’s decision to allow public smoking to continue.

With an increased number of smokers wanting to quit, a ban on public smoking would help to decrease the percentage of smokers, and reduce the number of deaths in the U.K from smoking related illnesses.

Smokers persist in their argument that they have just as much a right to be able to smoke as much as non-smokers have the right not to smoke. There are little enough places for people to be able to sit and smoke, and enjoy themselves already, without a ban being imposed on smoking. Some have also described how university is one of the only times of life where they can have so much free time and fun, and this should not be jeopardised by a ban on smoking.

The issue of passive smoking is one of the main issues to surface from this anti-smoking dispute. One such debate on passive smoking arises in the coffee bar on the Ffriddoedd site.

Many students have voiced their opinions, both for and against a ban on smoking in the coffee bar.

Smokers have made it clear that a ban on

However, non-smokers have argued against this point, explaining that they too have this same right to be able to socialise, without having to breathe in someone else’s smoke.

They choose not to smoke either because they do not like the habit or smell, or because they are aware of the health implications and feel that the risk of developing such health problems are not worth while. With most

other university buildings being smoke-free, many non-smokers feel that the coffee bar should be no exception.

The health problems from passive smoking should be enough to encourage a ban on smoking in all public places. The Government have taken views such as these into consideration, and their decision not to impose a blanket ban on smoking is based around the problematic issues which would arise. They have banned advertising cigarettes and have introduced more campaigns to make people aware of health issues related to smoking. An increase in tax on cigarettes and offers of free nicotine replacement therapy has also proved popular in helping people to quit.

This debate will prove to be extensive, and as it continues to rage, more public places will take on the measures that New York have enforced, on banning smoking in all public places. As this has proved successful for New York, it is therefore questionable whether the Government’s decision not to impose an outright ban on public smoking is the appropriate one.

If you would like to express your views, please email the editor and put forward your side of the debate.

Food and a late bar will be available, with the Bistro offering a late special menu and all the drinks promotions you have come to love at the Ffridd Bar will be available, including 50p vodka! A bottles and shots bar will be open in the Coffee Shop throughout the evening as well.

You can come in casual, smart or fancy dress and all students from all sites are welcome. Tickets cost just £2 and are available on the door of the Ffriddoedd Bar and Coffee Shop.

This is a huge event for Ffridd Site, organised by the students for the students and for just £2 there is a lot on offer. No matter what your tastes are in music, the live bands and DJs along with the late bar and cheap drinks are sure to make it a great night out!

6 FEBRUARY 2004

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NEWS

ELECTIONS ARE ON! Campaigns are being plotted as you read this latest issue of Seren – yes, it’s elections time again… The nominations box closed last Monday (9th February) and the race is on as campaigning begins in earnest on the 1st March. Look out for a desperate would-be politician near you…

Making your mind up is the easiest part – there are Question Times in JMJ and the PJ Hall where you can listen to candidates’ speeches and ask awkward questions, whilst candidates will be on the campaign trail putting up posters and harassing you in your own kitchens. Whatever people might say, this is hugely important for next year – your vote makes a massive difference to how your union gets run.

The vote itself consists of putting the various candidates in order of preference, 1 being your favourite, 2 second favourite and so on. The Transferable Vote system is complex to count, but fair and easy to vote in. The first sets of votes are counted, the candidates

with the lowest amount of number 1s is rejected, and the second choice votes from that candidate added to the different counts of the remaining candidates and so on until a clear winner emerges. Basically, every vote counts.

Candidates manifestos will be on the Unions’ Elections Website: www.undeb.bangor.ac.uk/eo4 from Wednesday 11th February. You will also find all the details for the elections on the website.

Dates you need to know for Elections ‘04: JMJ Question Time Tuesday 9th March 2004.

PJ Hall Question Time – Thursday 11th March 2004.

Ballot boxes open at various places across Bangor 15th – 17th March.

So keep an eye out for all the potential candidates and don’t forget, have your NUS card with you 15th-17th March so you can get involved with Union Elections 04.

The Electoral Commission is calling on students to have their say about what matters most to them by ensuring they are registered to vote .

2004 is an important year for voters with local and European elections taking place on 10 June. With only an estimated 11 per cent of young people voting in local elections in 2002, the Commission is urging England’s 1.2 million students not to give up their right to vote.

The Commission’s dedicated website for young people, www.votesarepower.com, explains how students can register to vote at both their home and term-time addresses in order to take part in local elections in both areas. They are however only able to vote in one location for the European Parliament elections.

In addition to the annual canvass, the electoral register is now updated on a monthly

Electoral Commission urges students to have their say basis so students who have moved or dropped off the register can update their details at any point during the year. A link to electoral registration forms can be found at the same web address as above.

The Electoral Commission’s Director of Communications, Anne Hinds, says: “We want to encourage students in greater numbers to register to vote while at university to ensure their opinions are represented at local, national and European levels.”

Students? They don’t care

By James Pearson

Students don’t care about their personal belongings. They’d happily and willingly give their things to total strangers – even items of immense material or sentimental value. They’d ask no questions and they’d not hesitate. They’d not refuse: they’d give them straight to them. Bingo. Sorted.

Gone.

The above is, of course, absurd, unrealistic and unlikely to happen. But how many of us students take any form of preventative action to try to protect our belongings? How many of us are truly aware of the real likelihood of losing our things due to theft or burglary – the two most common crimes to befall students? I am arguing that, although we might be vaguely aware of some of the risks, we aren’t sufficiently aware of crime prevention – even measures which are quick, simple and easy to implement.

1 in 3 students were victims of crime last year – a statistic which did not take into consideration the astonishing fact that 60% of all crimes against students went unreported.

Clearly, the ‘real’ figure is much more disturbing than 1 in 3.

You have your cash, cards, computer and other items in your room. But are they

really safe? Can you truly identity yours? I ask for a good reason: thieves like unidentifiable property because they’re easier to sell. Ensure you’ve permanently marked all your belongings with the postcode and house number of your home address. This is especially important for items like TVs, video recorders, DVD players, hi-fi equipment (including CDs), computers and bicycles, which are the most frequently stolen things from student digs.

Use an ultraviolet pen which has invisible ink.

Student life is synonymous with a lack of money. As such, you need to protect your cash, cards (credit and debit) and cheque books, especially when they’re the favourite goodies of thieves. It need not be difficult: always try to avoid carrying large amounts of cash and never leave your cash, cards or cheque books lying around your house. If your cards are stolen, be sure to contact the issuing firms immediately: your cards will be blocked and thus cannot be used.

Perhaps the biggest threat comes from pickpockets, who operate where there are crowds.

Consequently, it’s wise to be especially careful and alert in shops, on busy streets, in markets and, perhaps most relevant to the average student, in pubs and clubs.

As more and more of us are investing in our own computers, they are, predictably, becoming increasing desired by thieves, who can then supply their demand. I’m still full of Christmas spirit (or maybe just alcohol), so let’s make it hard work for them!

Although perhaps technical and time-consuming, arrange to have your computer’s components marked.

Once done, advertise this on the machine’s exterior. For safety reasons, always consider getting professional advice before opening a computer and ensure that you won’t, by opening it, invalidate any guarantee or warrantee.

It’s important to give thought to where to store your computer, especially when you’re away for long periods, such as at Christmas or Easter. The safest and most suitable option for poverty-stricken students who live in rented accommodation is to have

an alarm fitted. Some alarms fit into the computer and sound if it’s moved. Others, known as ‘loop’ alarms, have a cable which passes through the equipment and which triggers if it is broken.

Whatever else you do, make sure that your computer is completely out-of-sight of windows, and remember not to advertise the presence of computer equipment by leaving packaging outside your home.

So, there you have it: a brief introduction to the many ways of protecting your belongings. Don’t forget that, for reasons of space, I have not included every possible measure, so I recommend spending 10 minutes researching it on your own by, for example, visiting the many relevant websites.

Students, by their general age range and living arrangements, are a vulnerable group of people, evidenced by 1 in 3 being victims of crime last year. But neither you nor I need be a victim. Indeed, we can reduce the risk of becoming another statistic by implementing quick and simple – but nevertheless effective – preventative measures.

“Students don’t care about their belongings.”

I trust, from reading this article, that you do care, or else you might be the next victim.

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NEWS

FEBRUARY 2004 7

Students’ Union mourns the death of Higher Education T

here were scenes of sadness and grief at universities throughout the country as Tony Blair’s highly controversial top-up fee bill was passed with a slender majority of five votes, meaning that students from 2006 will pay fees of up to £3,000 a year, doubling potential debts to over £20,000.

Representatives from Bangor Students’ Union spent the next day in London lobbying MPs, and were encouraged at talks with Anglesey Labour MP Albert Owen, who was one of the rebels who later voted against the moves. They were angry, however, at the way in which they felt dismissed by Conwy MP Betty Williams.

Students’ Union Campaigns Officer Sam Burnett was there. “We waited hours to speak to Mrs Williams, even to the point of sitting outside a committee room she was due at. We felt disappointed that we weren’t able in the end, to talk to our own MP, who is after all a humble servant of the people.

“We were even more disappointed at the results of the vote. Blair’s Government have turned university education into the equivalent of DFS; ‘buy now, pay later – no interest for 25 years.’

“Not only was this a bad day for students, but it was a bad day for Bangor. This new legislation can only lead to a downturn in numbers of students wanting to go on to University – it’s just not an attractive prospect anymore.”

Focus of the Bangor campaign now moves to the Assembly. With the new legislation come new powers of devolution, meaning that the Welsh Government have the opportunity now to set their own system of HE funding.

“We shall be writing to every AM in a bid to convince the Assembly Government that the only option is to do right by the students of tomorrow and give them the chance to achieve their potential.

“Our own representative in Wales, Denise Idris-Jones, AM for Conwy, is a key member of the Assembly Higher Education committee. We have to ensure now that she won’t let down her constituents in the same way that Betty Williams has.”

A PLACE IN HISTORY

Do you want to leave a permanent legacy at the University? Can you take photographs?

On Tuesday, 2 March, the University is holding the first of a number of events to celebrate its 120th year anniversary. The event is also timed to co-incide with celebrating St David’s, the Patron Saint of Wales.

Readers of Seren are warmly invited to attend the unveiling of the first official University Photographic Exhibition anytime between 4.00 p.m. and 6.00 p.m. on TUESDAY, 2 MARCH 2004 at the Prichard Jones Hall, University of Wales, Bangor.

The 90 photographs consist of a mixture of some of the best photographs of local scenes with photographs of university life. This event is being sponsored by HSBC Bank.

Spokesperson for the University,

John W Jones said ‘The exhibition is not static and we are always looking out for new images.

If any Seren readers have photographs they’d like to be considered for a permanent place in the exhibition, they should bring the photos along on 2 March OR contact John W Jones, External Affairs Office (Athrolys)’.

Also, at the same event on 2 March, Emeritus Professor Phillip Williams (School of Education 1978-1983) will be present to sign copies of his first novel ‘The Edge of Death’ (price £7.99). For every book sold, the University’s Development Trust receives a donation. Light refreshments will be provided.

Make sure you enter our competition in the next issue of Seren to win a free signed copy of “The Edge of Death”.

THE INTERNATIONAL STUDENT AWARDS 2004 All International Students on a course of study that lasts 6 months duration at a UK institution can enter the International Student Awards 2004.

Unlike most other competitions, The International Student Awards focus on non-academic achievement. What the judges are looking for are enthusiastic and proactive people who are really making the most of their time in the UK. They will want to see experiences and achievements such as involvement in institution or community life; participation in cultural or sporting activities; aspirations and dreams realised; personal challenges overcome; examples of a proactive approach to student life; specific personal development,

life skills acquired as a consequence of studying in the UK. Entry for the competition is entirely web-based. Students MUST enter through the official website at: http://www.educationuk.org/shine/ If you would like to apply for the Awards or need any further information please go the above website or visit the International Student Welfare Adviser between 10am and 1pm on Monday to Friday.

Please note that the DEADLINE FOR ALL ENTRIES IS 1ST MARCH 2004.

8 FEBRUARY 2004

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NEWS

STUDENTS ON LIZARD MISSION IN CARIBBEAN midst the lush greenery of the forests of Dominica in the Caribbean there is a fierce battle taking place. An alien species of lizard from Puerto Rico has invaded and is threatening to eradicate the native lizard of the island.

Elizabeth Corry and Suzanne Kay, two Masters students specialising in evolutionary biology from the University of Wales, Bangor, have been in Dominica investigating the problem. “The lizards have adapted to the island in a very short length of time. Having been accidentally transported from their native Puerto Rico, the escaped lizards have managed to adapt, thrive and multiply in their new environment to the extent that they are taking over and driving out the native lizard species, much as the grey squirrel has ousted the red in many parts of Britain,” explains Suzanne: “The invading lizard has a competitive advantage.

The Puerto Rican grows and reproduces at a faster rate that the native lizard and is fierce in nature. Having evolved in a highly competitive environment it is much more resilient and will eradicate the native populations in Dominica in the future.”

“Inland Dominica has a tropical rainforest whilst coastal Dominica is dry and hot. The Puerto Rican lizard already appears to have changed in appearance to adapt to the change in terrain and climate. We have been tracking the lizards’ spread across the island. This field work provided an invaluable and unique opportunity to see evolutionary biology at work and to make a practical contribution to conservation,” adds Elizabeth.

13 students and 3 members of staff travelled to Dominica conducting field work as part of the MSc degree in Ecology at the School of Biological Sciences. This study opportunity was unique not only in being able to study an invasion as it happens, but also in bringing together molecular genetics and ecology.

According to Roger Thorpe, of the School of Biological Sciences, who led the research, understanding how to deal with alien invasions is vital if we are to safeguard biodiversity as 5080% of all endangered species are endangered due to “invasions” of alien species. Stowaway species accidentally arriving in foreign countries cause phenomenal problems.

when they occur. Dominica conversely is a poor country with little resource to tackle the problem of species invasion.

There is a danger that the lizard which has invaded Dominica may spread to other islands in the Lesser Antillean chain. We need to monitor the progress of the invasion in Dominica and think of measures that can be taken to prevent the same happening on the other islands of the Lesser Antillean chain.”

It is estimated that in America alone, invasions cost $137 billion per year to manage. “Here in the UK we have the skills, finance, and structure to research and help control invasions

The two students along with

“And this one time, at band camp…”

By Duncan Jane

h yes, summer camp: an American tradition - something we in the UK do not have the opportunity to experience. Not that we are missing out, I mean, how much fun could it possibly be?

This was the question I asked myself on the 13th June last year, whilst sitting on an aeroplane bound for New York. Only a few hours earlier I had completed my final university exam; then all of a sudden, it seemed, I was on my way to a summer camp in Wisconsin, hired as a specialist counsellor with CCUSA. What had I let myself in for? Had I really applied to get a job looking after American children? Insanity, surely... this summer, however, proved to be an amazing and unforgettable experience!

I was quite nervous at the thought of having to play teacher and surrogate older brother to a group of children for eight weeks, especially American ones. My apprehension, however, turned out to be unfounded. Unlike any of the notorious American stereotypes, the children turned out to be as well behaved, inquisitive, and mischievous as all the other children that I have looked after. Camp itself also exceeded all of my expectations.

I became part of a unique world comprised of outdoor activity, barbeques, campfires, and sing alongs. Inter-camp competitions became

the highlight of the week as we challenged neighbouring camps in various sporting competitions such as sailing regattas, football matches and horse riding gymkhanas. Being a camping trip leader, covering myself in mosquito repellent for campouts in the Wisconsin North Woods became a regular chore, and encounters with Wisconsin wildlife such as racoons, bears and skunks makes for some memorable stories.

For people with aspirations of becoming a teacher or working in the sports industry spending a summer at a camp is not only great fun but also provides hands on experience which looks great on a CV. The list of activities found at camp is huge: football, waterskiing, rock climbing and tennis to name a few.

For those of you not of a sporting nature, there are several other activities such as arts and crafts, pottery, and drama. Specific qualifications are not demanded by most camp directors; a background in an activity combined with a love of working with children is usually sufficient; training will often be given on arrival in the states.

Of course once camp ends (usually 8 or 9 weeks duration), the fun is not over. The J1 work visa allows you to travel in the states for up to 4mths. The money I earned at camp, which can vary from $750 - $1200 dollars for first year counsellors helped fund my travelling. I spent a week in the fabulous city of

Chicago, where I climbed The Sears tower (the worlds highest viewing platform), and watched Chicago White Sox and Chicago Cubs baseball matches. The rest of my travels including a visit a week at Illinois University and a few days in Boston before finishing in New York; where central park, the Empire state and a harbour cruise were a few of the highlights.

I left the USA with memories that I will always cherish, and some great friendships. I am still in contact with the people I met, and am planning on returning to camp next year. For the moment, however, I continue to talk about “this one time, at summer camp” The Camp Counselor programme offered by CCUSA was the BEST. I was able to work in the States for the duration of camp (9 weeks) and then spend up to 2 months travelling afterwards. My flights, food & accommodation, travel insurance, visa, and social security were all organised for me, allowing me to focus my attention on other things, like how on earth was I going to get everything in my backpack!

If you think you would be interested in spending your summer as a camp counsellor in the USA, check out the CCUSA website www.ccusa.com, or ring them on 020 8688 9051 for more information.

LIFESTYLE

Lifestyle

FEBRUARY 2004 9

http://seren.bangor.ac.uk

by GEMMA BUCKLEY-ROBERTS

I

Valentines Day Gifts

t is that time of year again when we are all put to the test in showing how much that special person in our life means to us, yes Valentines is upon us again.

It may be over commercialised and a simple stroll around the shops (that have been telling us Valentines Day is coming for at least three weeks now) shows us just

how much pressure there is for many to dig deep and spend excessively on frilly cards and chocolates.

Yet there is nothing wrong in embracing the essence of Valentines and showing someone that you care; you don’t have to spend huge amounts of money which, after Christmas, many of us are still lacking.

Suggestions for Her The fact that you have taken time out for your girlfriend for this oh-so-commercialised day, which you probably don’t believe in any way, will mean a lot. Lets face it no girl can resist romance, and you making the effort will make you look like the best boyfriend in the world. You need to show you really care and this can be shown by the amount of effort you’re willing to make. A simple night in for the two of you, where you have taken time out to spend some quality time with each other will go down a treat. Candles are not expensive and highly effective and if the budget allows it you can pick up a nice bottle of champagne for under £20, along with strawberries that bring out the flavour (yes we’ve all seen Pretty Woman) and Sinatra on the stereo the two of you could create some fruity fun. Thorntons Continental or Milktray chocolates are delicious but again very expensive; for a cheaper option why not buy her a larger version of her favourite

chocolate or ice cream, if she cant get enough of Cadburys you can by a 1kg bar for under £5; Toblerone have also released a Valentines version of their creamy chocolate with the words “To My Love” printed on it.

Remember Valentines is your day too, so if you can afford to, splashing out on sexy lingerie is the key. With Babydoll camisoles starting at £25, it’s something for her and for you. You need to be careful and be aware of your girlfriend’s tastes, which is why the lovely people at Contessa and Debenhams are on hand for advise from sizes, to the latest styles and colours.

Lastly, don’t think that red roses and a card are clichéd!

All girls love them and make for a classic Valentines gift.

The History of

St Valentines Day

There are many versions of how St Valentine’s Day became a tradition but the basic thread remains.

St Valentine was a Roman priest or bishop who lived in Rome around 269AD. The ruling Emperor Claudius II believed a soldier who was married was no good to him - he had a wife and family to think about. For this reason Claudius banned young men from marrying.

St Valentine, being the old romantic that he was, began wedding young couples in secret.

But it didn’t stay secret for long and word eventually got back to Claudius. St Valentine was sentenced to death and thrown in jail, where he apparently fell in love with the jailer’s daughter. Before he died he wrote her a love note signed off with ‘from your Valentine’ hence where the tradition begins.

The reason for the date of February 14th could be for two reasons. Firstly, St Valentine

was beheaded on February 14th. And secondly, the Roman festival of Lupercian used to take place on February 15th. On the eve of this festival the names of the young girls of their village would be put in to a hat and drawn out by the young men of the village. That person would then be your partner for one year. The combination of the Lupercian festival, the death and reputation of St Valentine and no doubt other influences some how amalgamated together to form what we now know as St Valentine’s Day. Did you know: Some people used to believe that if a woman saw a robin flying overhead on Valentine’s Day, it meant she would marry a sailor. If she saw a sparrow, she would marry a poor man and be very happy.

If she saw a goldfinch, she would marry a millionaire.

Valentines Day is about putting aside some time and perhaps using a little thought and effort to show and tell the person you love that they mean everything to you. It is easy to book an expensive restaurant or whisk someone away to a hotel for the weekend but how much thought did that actually take? What does it say other than you went for the easy

option? Admittedly Valentines Day is more for the girls and perhaps the very romantic amongst the men, but there is no reason why the day of love should not be one for you.

Check out my gift ideas that I have compiled for both him and for her to make the gift side of things that bit easier.

Suggestions for Him Valentines maybe your day, but as it is a leap year women traditionally are expected to take the upper hand and propose. However, for those who are not quite ready to take the plunge it really doesn’t mean that the latest Play Station 2 or X Box game will do.

There is no reason why you shouldn’t be lighting candles, putting the champagne on ice and giving him a night to remember with a romantic meal, a sexy massage and seductive lingerie. There are some gorgeous massage oils out there which not only help you both relax but also get

you both into the mood. Surprise him with sexy lingerie; you can treat yourself without the worry that your partner might purchase underwear which, frankly, either resembles a tacky, naughty maid outfit, doesn’t fit or simply isn’t you. By buying it yourself you’ll be happier and more confident (plus it gives us an excuse to shop).

Remember, above anything else the 14th February is about being together so whatever you do, have a Happy Valentines Day!

Alternate Valentines Gifts It’s so easy to buy a Valentines present for girls isn’t it? Like we said above, all you need are a few flowers, chocolates, a teddy bear and you’re sorted. But how do you choose something for your bloke that doesn’t involve beer or porn? We rifled through some ideas that the team and our readers came up with, and here’s our first suggestion. Adopt a monkey.

It’s original, you have to give us that. He’ll love it, just imagine... he could name it and you could even go on a trip to visit it together one day, bless. It will only cost you £2 a month, and if monkeys aren’t your thing you have the options of tigers, dolphins or reindeers, to name but a few. Have a gander over the website address below. It has loads of alternative gift ideas for everyone.

You can even

type in their age and it’ll come up with suggestions for you.

Secondly, our personal favourite (non-animal related) product is the Twister bed cover.

You can have some serious fun and games in the bedroom on Valentine’s night with this one! Kylie Minogue herself bought one when they first came out just before Christmas. Available in both single and double size, it’s a must-have!

If you don’t fancy a monkey (not in that way) or a twister duvet cover then you’re safe because there’s loads of other options to choose from. The address is: www.hard2buy4.co.uk So don’t even try using the excuse that you were stuck for ideas!

Happy Valentines Day.

10 FEBRUARY 2004

http://seren.bangor.ac.uk

VALENTINE’S MESSAGES

Valentine’sMessages Darling, light of my life. I’ll be your dream, I’ll be your wish, I’ll be your fantasy. I’ll be your hope, I’ll be your love, be everything that you need. I love you more with every breath, truly madly deeply.

Love babs

Dafydd Launder, sharing a wall with you is, to me, like sharing a toothbrush. An intimate act which can only really be ensued by marriage. I love you, my precious hobbit xxxxx

To the sexy Ffridd security fellas: Vic, you are by far the best nights company I have ever had. Only Dave and Joe compare! Graham, you are fit! Nice arse.

Love Clare xxx (Y Glyder)

Happy Valentines Day Mum, and Happy Birthday for next week, hope you have a fantastic time! Llove you hundreds and thousands, Plonkit xxx

xxx

To everyone, I know I love you all lots. ps: drunk in Time writing this.

Luv Katie Schreiber xxxx

Katie, being with you makes life worth living, your babi forever! xxx

I really fancy you, Richard Hardy xxx

V Block, Y Glyder, I love you more than hot lemons, S xxxxx

To Heilia! I love you, I remember you all the time! Bye sweetie, JSS x

To Mike, if you were a drum I would bang you all day. love J xx

Sally, all my love, hope you have a fantastic day (like every other day you spend with me!)

Ewan (BT)

To Dino, you hunky sexy fella, Happy Valentines Day, lots of love, Andrew Rouse xxxxx

To Becky, I really like you, love Neil, who lives in Plas Gwyn xxx

Andy, Dav, Tim (lh), Tim (sh), Tony and Ben, your all the sexiest fellas we know!

Love, your favourite girls xxxx

Nat, you’ve stolen my heart and you’ll have it forever.

I hope you feel the same.

Matt D xxx

Bethan, my darling girlfriend, do you want a big mac with extra fries? I’ll pay! Lots of love from your loving fiance.

Ed xxx

Thinking about it, maybe I was just drunk when I said we should stop what we were doing. After all it’s just a bit of fun isn’t it?x

To Steph, have a great skiing holiday, miss you loads, but not in a stalker way, have a great time, Matt

To my darling security man Patrick, whenever you are in/out of your uniform, you know where I am.

Follow the angel, love Kim x

To my darling husband John Beresford, please stop beating your loving wife xxx

Ben + Katie 4ever!

I love Kate in Plas Gwyn E block, love Gary

o it gramm article partn availa

speed north potent mosph Dear Donna, even though you have been will be ill all year, I have still enjoyed the time on Sun we have spent together and hope like to the rest of the year we spend Cariad together is as much fun for you as last year was mail c for me. Love organi Brady. and w

To me you are a cute seagull and a skilled lil bedgehog but most importantly you’re all mine.

MINE

Costos 4 Noreen. Richard don’t get pissed off

To Bex, my life without you would be like a broken pencil xx

Geoff and Miguel f**k nearly as good as Gee and Jenny

You know who I am and how I feel, I want you Max!

Andy, love you honey, Amy xxxxxxxxx

I hate Valentines, love Jim xxxxx

To my darling Fiona, thankyou for making me the happiest man alive these last 19 months. All my love forever, Mark xxx

Love you babe xxxxxxxx Scamp

Hello Andy who works in Alias, I really fancy you!

Wayne x

To the guys on my floor in K block Bryn Eithin, Happy Valentines Day, Luv Charlie, K2

S

To my darling Andrea, I didn’t know you took it up the **** you dirty bitch, I’ll give you the £20 I owe you, love you, Ed xxx

I’ve never felt this way about anyone before - you’re so wonderful and you mean everything to me. I love you - your Guinea Pig

sweep ing pla why w now!

spend just do don’t g there’s may fi make an eve oppor other, At the a card ested hande noted organi individ

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FEATURES

http://seren.bangor.ac.uk

FEBRUARY 2004 11

SPEED DATING COMES TO BANGOR! have heard of ‘Speed Dating’, Y ouit’s may been the inspiration for TV pro-

grammes, and the subject of numerous articles. It’s the new way to meet potential partners, and more importantly- it’s now available in north Wales for the first time!

‘Cariad Speed Dating’ will be hosting speed dating events in different venues around north Wales, enabling men and women to meet potential partners in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Cariad Speed dating’s first event will be held at the Fat Cat Café Bar in Bangor on Sunday February 15th 2004. People who’d like to attend need to contact organisers, Cariad Speed dating (tel 07969541724 or e mail cariadspeedating@aol.com ) so that the organisers can ensure an even match of men and women of a similar age profile.

The ‘speed dating’ craze is currently sweeping the big cities, with new events taking place in major cities, but there’s no reason why we in Bangor can’t get in on the act right now!

Speed dating avoids the need to spend a whole evening with a ‘blind date’ you just don’t click with. There’s no rejection if you don’t get on. It’s a smart way to asses whether there’s a ‘spark’- and if there’s no ‘spark’ you may find similar interests and humour and make new friends. At a speed dating evening, an even number of men and women get the opportunity to meet and talk briefly with each other, with no obligation or embarrassment.

At the end of the evening, each person marks a card noting which people they’d be interested in meeting again and those details are handed to the organiser. If both parties have noted that they’d like to meet again, then the organiser shares their contact details and the individuals can take it from there.

“Speed Dating is seen as the fashionable new way for singles to socialise and meet potential partners,” said Eli Williams, one of the people behind Cariad Speed Dating’s events. “It can become more difficult to break into new social circles if you’ve been in a longstanding relationship or as friends partner-off, and living in a semi-rural area doesn’t help.

We think that once people have seen what a

good time they’ll have at our events, they’ll be circling those dates in their diaries and looking forward to the next event!”

“We’ll be holding regular events at pleasant bars and venues across north Wales, providing an interesting night out, in a smart environment, with the potential at the very least, of widening your circle of friends.”

New Broadband Phone Saves Up To 95% On Calls new Internet telephone service has A been launched today which will cut

student phone bills by up to 95 per cent.

The “@Phone” will enable you to make calls regardless of time of day, to the UK and abroad at the same flat rate.

All you need is a PC with a broadband connection, often provided at halls of residence and the student’s union, and you can make cheap calls to family and friends on both landlines and mobiles. Also, there is no contract, no connection fee and no small print so all you need to do is buy the phone, install a CD and plug it in to start calling.

Two hundred free minutes are provided with each phone to start you off, and you can buy top-up credit online.

For students phoning home, especially when studying abroad, this is an ideal solution. Living away from home is expensive enough without the added problem of large phone bills. Now students

will be able to make cheap calls to home and friends safe in the knowledge that there’s one less expense to think about. Also, if you give someone else a phone, all calls made to them are completely free.

Many people still don’t realise that you can use the Internet to make calls, but this phone is the perfect accessory to any broadband connection. The phone can be used from anywhere to call anywhere - up to 200 countries - and there is no extra charge to call at peak times - there’s just one standard rate.

Like a pay-as-you-go service, by topping up online you know exa c t l y where you stand and won’t be surprised with any hefty bills or line rental charges!

The phone has already been a big hit in the U.S. with over 20 million customers making cheap calls every day. Phones are priced at £39.99 each or £69.99 for two, and can be bought now at www.novellimports.com.

12 FEBRUARY 2004

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CULTURE

CHEGGERS PLAYS TIME

A

s I stood in a packed Time on Monday 26th January waiting for Keith Chegwin to come on stage I thought: “What in the name of God am I doing?!” There I was at the front of the stage awaiting the arrival of a short middle aged man with a reputation for getting his kit off !

Keith “Cheggers” Chegwin graced the people in Time with his presence just after 11pm. He was greeted by a mixture of cheers and boos with a few pairs of knickers thrown in for good measure. From the start it was clear that Cheggers had obviously decided that the way to the students’ hearts was through appealing to their exhibitionist sides. It ranged from having people flash their assets on stage to couples simulating sex with a fake orgasm contest thrown in the middle! You name it and it was done. For their humiliation participants were given fantastic - I use the term lightly - prizes such as T-shirts, money and for the enthusiastic winner of the orgasm contest, a

Reviewed by: Stephanie McEvoy vibrator package. What every girl dreams of!

Most surreal moment of the night came when Cheggers started singing “Come

By Ah” and soon had everyone singing along with him! Definitely not something I ever thought I’d be privileged enough to see. Even weirder and something I really could have done without seeing was Cheggers demonstrating his sexual prowess. This was followed by a naked dancing man wearing nothing but his socks, a nipple ring and a smile!

“Cheggers demonstrating his sexual prowess” An hour after he jumped on stage to a chorus of boos, Keith Chegwin left it to mad cheering and cries for more - it’s amazing the difference an hours drinking can do! I was ‘lucky’ enough to grab a quick chat with Cheggers and was surprised at how sweet and polite he was - a big difference from his rude, smutty on-stage persona. He told me that even

he was shocked at just how far some of the people went, but that he was very pleased with the crowd’s reaction. He was also full of praise for the management and staff of Time, especially Andy the DJ. I’m afraid and ashamed to say that I did actually enjoy the night. I laughed loads although admittedly it wasn’t so much Keith Chegwin I was laughing at, but the desperation of some people who crave the attention on stage. Love him or hate him, Cheggers knows how to put on a good show ■ Stephanie meets Cheggers backstage at the event

COMEDY NETWORK ESTABLISHES ITSELF T

he Comedy Network’s monthly comedy nights are fast becoming an institution amongst students in Bangor – a good indicator is that all the bloody seats have gone by approximately 8.01pm.

Tonight’s evening begins with headliner Andy Zaltzman acting as warm-up – in the absence of a compere – and, unfortunately, failing to rouse a decidedly lukewarm audience. Not a good start.

T

So it’s left to our first comedian, the ‘So You Think You’re Funny’ finalist Andy Bone (stop sniggering at the back), to try and spark some interest. After a lengthy gag about the ITV fails to raise even a titter from the crowd, the

Reviewed by: Ben Summers rest of the set follows suit.

Which isn’t to say that he doesn’t have his moments; mentioning his drunk-driving father’s assurance that ‘the car knows the way’ even draws applause.

Unfortunately though, he lacks that most vital comedy element – timing. His jokes are absolute epics, meandering around his chosen topic for so long that by the time the punchline arrives, the laughter scarcely compensates for the lengthy period of silence that precedes it.

After a short interval, he returns to play

Zaltzman’s warm-up, and suddenly hits his stride all too late. His five minute warm up is funnier than the entire hour that went previously, and it’s with an energised crowd that Zaltzman takes the stage.

Notwithstanding the late, great Bill Hicks, political humorists all too often fall into the trap of using the stage as soapbox, and forget to tell any jokes. Zaltzman’s trick is to balance his political musings with a healthy dose of surrealism - a trick which works terrifically.

Following the soporific pace of Bone’s set, Zaltzman’s altogether more concise approach mixes well with his impassioned rhetoric.

Unlike so many other politicos Zaltzman’s zeal lends him a fantastic energy, allowing him to talk at length about politics without ever forgetting to include a gag or two.

Afterwards, Bone and Zaltzman are both in agreement – Bangor is ‘a very nice crowd’.

Despite some attempts to buck this trend – Zaltzman’s comment that “no-one’s heckled me yet” results in an absolute storm of abuse – he gets a fantastic reception. Once again, the Comedy Network has provided a great night.

The headline act Andy Zaltzman

SODA’s Pot-Pourri: The essence of musicals

A

h, musicals... Don’t you just love it when in the middle of a sketch some guys stands up from behind, walks to the front of the scene, takes of his tie and suddenly starts singing how sad it’ll be leaving school? And then 5000 actors (wherever they came from) join in, waving their arms in the air, and do the final song... How d’you mean, I’m exaggerating now?! This is what happened. That’s the charm of musicals, that’s SODA! SODA’s Even Later Christmas Variety Show

Reviewed by: Cedric Krummes was a medley. We all know them singing one musical, one story, but not this time. This was their opportunity to show us all what they are up to: The Penis Song (no comment), a James Bond Sketch, The Phantom of the Opera, Tainted Love, Queen VS The Village People (definitely no comment), Cell Block Tango (from Chicago), and many more.

This finger-food performance was full of nice little titbits and people enjoyed them a lot;

applause was given to the talented newcomers and to the never-leaving tax-paying oldies.

So if you want to join the CD ‘n vinyl society and experience the continuum raging “from student randomness to total obscurity”, join SODA! They are still looking for some people for their next musical South Pacific which will be performed in Theatr Gwynedd from April 28th to May 1st.

For more information bangor@hotmail.com

email:

soda_

South Pacific A SODA production

28th April - 1st May

See Theatre Gwynedd for details

E

films

FILMS

FEBRUARY 2004 13

http://seren.bangor.ac.uk

by ROB HARRIS - Since 2000

LF

its his rm up went crowd

O

ne thing about Big Fish that is inarguable is that it is a strange film; it is also a wonderful masterpiece. Billy Crudup stars as Will Bloom who goes to Hicks, see his estranged, dying father, Edward to the Bloom, to find out the truth between who forget his father really is and the tall tales he told alance his son as a child. However, Will finds out ose of more than he bargained for, finding out ally. more about life and himself than he ever e’s set,imagined.

Helena Bonham Carter playing their parts in Edward Blooms tales excellently.

The film isn’t without its problems, despite the lead actors great acting their southern accents aren’t the best, but any Hollywood film that casts two Brits in the lead parts, even as Americans, deserves all the praise it can get. In parts where it should be scary and tense, it isn’t and you will be left with a longing for more tall tales. These flaws are only minor in a film that is otherwise a magical, wondrous tale like few ever put to film.

proach The tall tales that Edward Bloom tells about etoric. his life are expertly put onto film, with director zman’s Tim Burton coming back from the failure of ng him Planet of the Apes with style. Albert Finney t ever and Ewan McGregor as the old and young versions of Edward Bloom respectively, oth inare both perfect for their role; Finney as rowd’.a masterful story teller and McGregor as trendan eternal optimist and adventurer. The eckledsupporting cast are also superb with cameos abusefrom Danny DeVito, Steve Buscemi and

in, the night.

ls

Top 5 Romantic Comedies

LOST IN TRANSLATION

Romantic comedy starring Bill Murray and the previously unknown Scarlett Johansson.

Set in Tokyo this critically acclaimed film

by Sofia Coppola has given Bill Murray his first Oscar nomination and well deserves a look. Fans of Bill Murray will relish the definitive performance of his career.r.

Big Fish, without being too sentimental or embarrassingly soppy is often funny, uplifting, dramatic, romantic and has much to offer the viewer. If you want to go see an alternative Valentine’s film then this peculiar and wonderful cinematic treat about finding out who you really are is a fine choice. One of the best book-to-film adaptations ever.

SCHOOL OF ROCK

A surprise hit in America. The predictable story of musical underdogs making it big and finding out who they really are, has been critically received on both sides of the Atlantic. Will hopefully make an A-list star of the hilarious and hugely talented Jack Black.

RETURN OF THE KING

Not your typical Valentine’s film but this, the best fantasy trilogy ever, shows that Director Peter Jackson has come up gold.

Great plot, great action, great effects and great performances helped give this film the 11 academy award nominations it deserves. One not to be missed!

5 - Bridget Jones Diary: Renee Zellweger piles on the pounds to play a thirtysomething singleton who finds herself in the middle of a love triangle. With a fight between the two male leads Colin Firth and Hugh Grant (in his first of two films in the Top 5) lads will have at least one thing to enjoy.

4 - My Big Fat Greek Wedding: The previously unknown writer/actress Nia Vardolas stars in this self penned tale of an unhappy Greek woman who falls for an American. Laughter ensues as her husband to be is accepted into her orthodox Greek family, more for the girls than the boys, a fun, easy to watch fun.

3 - How To Lose A Guy In 10 days: The unlikely premise that Matthew Mahgonagy has to keep a girlfriend for 10 days meets up with Kate Hudson who has to get and lose a guy in 10 days is turned into an often laugh out loud, funny film by spirited performances and a somewhat witty script 2 - Two Weeks Notice: Hugh Grant and Sandra Bullock star, respectively, as boss and lawyer, employee who fall in love in the second best romantic comedy since 2000. Like all films in this list it is more for girls, but blokes will find more things funny in this, than any of the other previous entries.

1 - Amélie: Perhaps a bizarre choice considering the runner up films are nothing like this but that is why Amélie tops this list. Audrey Tatou stars in the title role as a loner who does good deeds for all around her whilst looking for the perfect man. If you can get over the subtitles or dubbing then this is a funny, magical, heart warming, unique and peculiar tale about finding love in the romantic, picturesque type of Paris that only appears in films.

Music

14 FEBRUARY 2004

http://seren.bangor.ac.uk

MUSIC

Franz Ferdinand

Reviewed by: Tim Healey

With the eponymous album release on February 9th, the band has managed to win over the support of the public, with their aims to bring back the eighties rock that makes young girls (and guys, for that matter) want to get up and start dancing, and revolutionise the way that people perceive modern music.

Forget Radiohead’s experimentalism, that’s old news, this is the real stuff.

Mixing together early Britpopsounding tunes, with certain elements of Blur, Radiohead, Suede and Pulp sounding parts to their songs. To imagine what it actually sounds like, I have been told by the band’s official website to picture this; put all the early parts of the bands above together, add in some weird synth sounds and finally throw in some soul, and you’re about there. Listening to the songs is like taking a trip back in time to the late eighties or early nineties. If you want a band that has a sense of joy and most importantly, energy, Franz Ferdinand is the band for you.

It looks like it’s going to be Franz Ferdinand’s year, as the song ‘Take Me Out’ is being hailed as a strong contender as single of the year, and we’re only in February. The effect of this band is not to be underestimated.

B

ack in early October, someone handed me a Franz Ferdinand CD, and I was instructed to listen to it.

“Hmm, not bad,” I remember thinking to myself, a series of catchy tunes (including their first single, ‘Darts of Pleasure’) that can really get your fingers tapping on the desk. But when I first heard their new single, ‘Take Me Out’, I was more intrigued.

The Scottish foursome comprising Robert Hardy, Alexander Kapranos, Nicholas McCarthy and Paul Thomson, recently took the UK charts by storm, scoring an impressive number three hit with their new single, ‘Take Me Out.’ The band also enjoyed success with ‘Darts of Pleasure’ – voted the song of the week by NME and the Guardian in September.

The single, ‘Take Me Out’ begins with a different riff and tune to the rest of the song, and then we are launched into the weird, yet catchy guitar riff, and if people take to it like they did ‘Seven Nation Army’ by the White Stripes last year, the potential for this band is limitless.

Who’s Steve?

Reviewed by: Richard Woodall

This was the question on many peoples’ lips prior to Tuesday 27th January 2004, as a band dubbed ‘Steve’ visited TIME. Organised by Bangor Christian Union, their music has taken them from their roots in Bristol to much of Europe, including Spain and France, to the States. Formed eight years ago, the band is composed of Neil Wilson, the leading vocals and guitarist, Lee Slater the leading guitarist, Paul O’Connor on the bass and Joe Clegg playing the drums. A devout Christian band, they see their vision with regards to people experiencing God’s spirit whilst enjoying the genre of their guitar driven rock.

So not only were students of Bangor questioning who exactly this band was, but which one was Steve? Well, as you have read, none of them are named Steve. The reason behind this name is indefinite; diverse reasons being given at different interviews, so to skip to the point; it’s merely an ambiguous one. ‘Steve’ included in their performance popular songs including ‘M’ and ‘My Ever My All’, then after Neil had introduced his fellow members, he mentioned briefly

about the change in their lives brought about by Jesus Christ, resulting from Christ’s death and resurrection. Following a few more songs, including an adaption of U2’s ‘elevation’, the band from Bristol headed back down south.

Their gig in Time, which was dramatically switched to the student nightclub after being scheduled to be in Main bar, was their fifth in January, having played in Cornwall, Lancastershire, Blackpool, and Preston.

Having done over sixty gigs in 2003, this was one of many scheduled for the New Year.

Displaying and selling merchandise in the left hand corner of Time, and later supplemented by two DJ’s, many would have thought it to have been worth the £3 entrance fee. With no cloakroom fee, it was indeed financially viable, and worthwhile, seeing as Time doesn’t normally open on Tuesday evenings.

Just over half full, it made for a unique atmosphere. A fantastic night was had by all, congratulations go to the CU for organising the successful event.

Indie Music Review

Pop Music Review

By: Ben Summers

By: Emma Roose

Skinny people – should they be allowed to make music? Most indie bands these days have barely half an arse between the lot of them, but they’ve definitely got an edge over pop’s heavyweights. Single of the Week comes in the shape of the constantly fantastic Liars, whose utterly lunatic single ‘There’s Always Room On The Broom’ matches up to the promise of its title, and sounds like Beck fronting the Rapture, only a million times better… meanwhile, The Rapture themselves find themselves usurped, as ‘Love is All’, the second single from their disappointing ‘Echoes’ album, falls way below the standard set by the awesome ‘House of Jealous Lovers’…The Strokes release ‘Reptilia’, the second single from ‘Room on Fire’; hardly a massive departure from their sound, but still worth a listen…the opposite of the La’s in name only, ‘Here She Comes Again’ sees The Stands play their jangly trade in typical Scouse fashion, though sadly they’ve got barely a tenth of the Coral’s charm or, indeed, tracksuits to make them worthwhile.

Britney Spears - Toxic - Publicly, Britney Spears has been a disaster, and many of her fans have written her off as a has-been. But musically, her new single Toxic shows that the girl’s still got something. The Hitchcock ‘Psycho-esque’ strings against funky disco beats more than make up for somewhat weak lyrics. Unfortunately the release has been delayed in the vain hope that us Brits would have forgotten the wedding fiasco of the year. Ha, as if!

Sam and Mark – With A Little Help From My Friends - The two runners up of Pop Idol team up to cover the classic Beatles hit, With A Little Help From My Friends, to be released on February 9th and compared to what we heard them sing on the show, this single will more than likely ensure them a speedy exit from the music biz. More like a comedy record than what we would expect from ‘Pop Idols’.

Also to look out for - Fatman Scoop featuring The Crooklyn Clan - It Takes Scoop (Feb 9th), Damien Rice – Volcano (Feb 9th), Stereophonics – Moviestar (Feb 16th)

MUSIC

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FEBRUARY 2004 15

LOST

PROPHETS

LOST PROPHETS Start Something Reviewed by: Manoj Koeri

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nlike most reviews of this great album, I am not going to use my words talking about how Lostprophets and this album sounds like a rip off of I***bus or even F***h N* M**e or how these boys from Pontypridd, South Wales haven’t really produced anything original in their latest offering. Shoddy journalism.

Instead will talk about this band and how their sound has developed into one which oozes confidence and what Lostprophets sound like.

My obligatory rant about the current state of music journalism is now out the way rest assured! “Start Something” is the result of working for four months in an LA studio with respected producer Eric Valentine (Queens of the Stone Age/Good Charlotte).

Having said that it feels like a lot longer as the time between albums was spent touring their debut, Fake Sound Of Progress to an almost near death. In this time it is obvious by this opus that the band have

progressed both individually and collectively and have produced an album that would make you need to enrol in over excitement counselling.

Unity and love are the main themes which form the body of “Start Something”, might be too much for some people but there’s

“the band have progressed both individually and collectively” still nothing like a mushy love song! When Ian Watkins sings, “I still feel lost without you as silence takes its toll,” you know this is going to be a special album.

Watkins’s vocal range has been stretched to the maximum on this album. His voice has evolved over gruelling tour patterns and hard work into a smooth and slick style which is encapsulated in tracks such as “I Don’t Know” and “To Hell We Ride.”

“Start Something” seems to contain all the components that FSOP was missing or ideas not used back then. As that album was an out and out metal album, this is an album, which consists of a very experimental sound which Lostprophets have flirted with to great

effect. Guitar solos are something that Lee Gaze and Mike Lewis haven’t demonstrated but on tracks such as “I Don’t Know” they prove the critics wrong with a psychedelic riff that, in an instant, shows how far the musical talents of this band have progressed.

Having said this, the album won’t disappoint traditionalist Lostprophets fans.

They will be pleased to know that this latest offering has hints of the past. Jamie Oliver uses little interludes on the album between tracks and his trademark scratching even though he has begun to incorporate keyboards into the music of this band.

“Hello Again” is a highly personal track and is obvious that the meaning behind the lyrics have been thought about greatly.

When you hear words such as “Hello again, see it’s not that hard, there are no dead ends even though you’re scarred” being sung from the mouth of Watkins, you have to believe that something special has been produced for the masses.

If last year was the year of screamo or extremo or whatever you want to call it, 2004 is going to be the year when every band tries to mimic Lostprophets new sound. “Start

Something” has been born into a different scene to last year and hopefully will allow the public to finally take notice of the band and look past their baggy trousers and swish hair cuts to focus on the music. As they sing in the opening track “We still kill the old way,” “Even though your doubts we will still be here.”

Best album of 2004? Yes. Start Something is that good ■

Watch out for the next issue of Seren which will contian an interview with the band and giveaways

seren Give-aways

16 FEBRUARY 2004

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COMPETITIONS

To enter any of the competitions on this page send the answer, along with your name, address and telephone number to: editor@seren.bangor.ac.uk by 21st Feb

It’s Seriously Easy To Grab Free O2 mobile phone Win the latest Motorola T720i handset from O Malibu® Goodies 2

W

ith temperatures slowly falling, and thoughts of the seriously easy summer holidays now a distant memory, someone needs to inject a little sunshine into the dreary grey winter months!

The people who bring you Malibu®, the Caribbean white rum with coconut, has come up with the answer to everyone’s prayers by providing some seriously easy refreshment. By simply mixing Malibu® with cranberry you can sit back, relax and enjoy this delicious drink, perfect for taking life a little less seriously with friends.

The palette balancing combination of Malibu® & Cranberry forms the perfect partnership and is the key to unwinding and taking life less seriously. The dryness

of the cranberry juice blends with the rum and coconut flavours of Malibu® to make a drink that brings a little bit of the Caribbean with every sip – and we’ve got some to give away!

Three lucky people will each win a bottle of Malibu®, a Malibu® branded jug and some cranberry juice – the perfect prize for anyone who wants to take life less seriously. Whether it’s for drinks at home before hitting the bar, or for nights out clubbing with friends, Malibu® & Cranberry is the key to seriously easy refreshment.

To win this seriously easy going prize simply answer the following question: What is the fruit flavour which sets Malibu apart from other white rums?

O2 Home is the only Pay & Go™ to offer lower cost mobile calls from home, from just 2p* a minute. The O2 Home package is an extension of O2’s popular ‘Bolt-on’ portfolio of text and call bundles.

Students on O2 Pay & Go™ can add O2 Home by simply registering their postcode via text, dialing 2425 from their O2 handset or through Customer Service. They will then hear an announcement letting them know they are using minutes from their O2 Home Bolt-on before they make a call from their postcode.

To celebrate the fantastic O2 Home service we’re giving away the latest T720i Motorola handset. Thanks to O2, you’ll be able to text to your hearts content on the fantastic colour screen or try out the media messaging, games,

music, sport and entertainment services.

For a chance to win this fantastic prize, simply answer the following question * The O2 Home package is an extension of which popular O2 portfolio? a) Bolt-on package b) Lock-on package c) Link-on package For further details on O2 Home check out www.o2.co.uk/o2home For more information competitions relevant to your campus visit www.o2.co.uk/o2homeoncampus

* 5p minimum call charge applies. Unit cost applies when all minutes are used.

Terms and conditions apply.

WIN! WIN! WIN! WIN! WIN! WIN! WIN! WIN! WIN! WIN! WIN! WIN! WIN! WIN!

Topshop gift vouchers

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Win £25 worth of Topshop/Topman vouchers

opshop and Topman will be rocking the coolest cities in the UK with their regional lock-in event. This unique after hours party is held exclusively for students at selected Topshop and Topman stores.

Shop to the sounds of an exclusive mix made specially for the lock-in’s by the London collective ‘Hey Ladies’ and get a special 20% discount off the latest spring/ summer collections on the night. Style and Trend Advisors will be on-hand in selected stores to assist with their free fashion advice on the latest trends.

For Spring Summer 2004 Topman continue to offer an eclectic mix of styles to suit every taste. This season silhouettes are loose, with oversizing playing a major role and colour palettes are muted in pastel shades but sharper berry tones inject colour into the range whilst ethnic prints add a touch of psychedelia to tees and accessories.

Topshop Spring Summer 2004 sees the return of chic femininity. Soft, washeddown silks and chiffons, dresses with dropwaists and colour palette of muted pistachio, flesh

tones and silver complete the Twenties look.

The fresh Seaside story is comprised of nautical stripes and loose sailor- shorts - completed with Sportswear styling. A New York Boho look sums up the casual Eastside trend. Oversize cotton prints with denim are key.

On the night, the booze is free and flowing or at least until you have drunk it dry.

As if that wasn’t enough to tempt you, everyone who makes a purchase on the evening gets a free overnight emergency kit containing everything you need if you’re stranded after that wicked night out.

Lock on to the Lock-In. Thursday 26th February 2004 6pm- 9pm 225/257 High St, Bangor. Wales For your chance to win £25 worth of vouchers to spend on the night simply answer the following question: Which London collective has made the exclusive music mix just for the Lock-in nights?

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Get Out More With A Free Railcard

his month we teamed up with Young Persons Railcard to give you student travellers the chance to get around for less, as it were. The stresses of study and university life are hard enough without having to balance your finances on top - so make life easier this term by saving money on travel.

Whether you’re going back home, or giving yourself a well-deserved break with friends, you can enjoy cheaper fares straight away with a Young Persons Railcard. With connections all over Britain, the Young Persons Railcard will allow you to get away with cheaper rail fares, so at least travel expenses needn’t be stressful this year.

A Young Persons Railcard is available to anyone ages 16-25 and at a cost of just £18 for a whole year, it entitles the holder to 1/3 off most rail fares in Britain. So before you’re completely skint make a smart decision and invest in a Young Persons Railcard - you’ll save enough money to enjoy a

pint or two, guilt free and may even feel inclined to pay a visit home!

If you fancy getting one for free, we have five to give away to our lucky readers. All you have to do is answer to this really tough question: What is the name of the pub opposite Bangor trainstation?

If you aren’t lucky enough to win a free railcard then all you need to do is go down to your local staffed railway station, rail appointed Travel Agent or authorised Student Travel Office with a passport-sized photo of yourself, a completed application form (you can pick one up when you are there) together with £18 and proof that you are either 16-25 years old or a mature student aged 26 or over in full time education. You can also buy one over the phone.

Call National Rail Enquiries on 08457 48 49 50 for the telesales number of your local Train Company. For more information visit: www.youngpersons-railcard.co.uk

WIN! WIN! WIN! WIN! WIN! WIN! WIN! WIN! WIN! WIN! WIN! WIN! WIN! WIN!

SPORT

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FEBRUARY 2004 17

Buccaneers making a fighting come back!

By Jayne Entwistle

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he Bangor Fencers are making a desperate attempt to re-energise their club, as they scrape and save their funds for replacement kit and equipment. To do so, they have been campaigning vigorously to raise close to one thousand and five hundred pounds, so that the club is up to the standards that students and visitors would expect.

Currently, the club has been unable to host any home matches due to its inability to provide working electrics. This means that the referees must work overtime to be fair and non-judgmental whilst trying to make sure that they spot the hit correctly.

They also have had to defend their equipment to new members during tryout sessions, because as it is more than ten years old, it does not have the clean-white, pristine appearance that some other clubs can show with their equipment and kit.

All this means that members are not willing to stay on and become regulars and so are finding it difficult to practise for our away matches, owing to the fact that they do not have enough people with varied styles to work with. Despite this, the executive has been tirelessly working to amend this problem.

They must firstly send equipment that can be fixed to an armourer. Secondly, steadily replace the equipment with their grant and fundraise the rest.

Fundraising has included collecting Kingsmill tokens for kit and equipment and on Thursday 26th February they will be hosting a themed AU night.

The sessions are friendly, as vibrant and as energetic as their members make them with the added bonus of a professional coach on a weekly basis. After each fencing session,

they head off for a drink in the pub, or a meal in Whetherspoons on Saturdays, and provided interest and forewarning, the executive will enthusiastically arrange more socials to best suit everyone’s busy schedules. The have had one away match and have more scheduled, and hopefully, some home ones too soon, as the Bangor Buccaneers are rebuilt and made to

swashbuckle again, with a vengeance and with style! (Did you know: being left-handed is considered a BIG advantage if you are a fencer.)

To join the Fencing club either send an email to: eluc6b@bangor.ac.uk or go along to their stall at Serendipity 2 on Saturday 14th Feb. You will need an A.U. card to join.

OCTO-PUSHES FOR MORE MEMBERS

By Victoria Dove ancy trying something new and exciting? Then come and join us for a game of Octopush! “What’s that?” We hear you cry. Why it’s underwater hockey of course! It involves a mask, snorkel, pusher and a swimming pool!

Throughout the world, Octopush is a fast growing and fast moving underwater sport, with several university and public teams.

Often described as “hockey underwater”, but you don’t need to know anything about the land based game to have a great time.

However, being able to swim helps a great deal!

Our club is small and friendly, giving you the chance to play this unique sport whether you’re an expert or a complete beginner, even if you’ve never used a mask and snorkel before, all training is provided so there’s no need to fear.

To join or simply watch what we do, come down to Bangor swimming pool on Sunday nights 8-9pm followed by free food and cheap drinks at our sponsor pub O’Sheas.

Come on, it’s got to be more exciting than Sunday night TV! All you need to bring is your swimming stuff, mask, snorkel, fins (closed

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foot), socks (so the fins don’t rub your feet and cause nasty blisters), and the ability to have fun. If you don’t have any kit, don’t worry as we’ve got plenty you can borrow.

We also have a vibrant social calendar starting in O’Sheas who do the honours with

cheap drink offers. You can meet some of the Octopush team at Serendipity this week in the Students’ Union.

So come on down and check it out.

Hope to see you there!

BASKETBALL TEAM WIN DIVISION Hawarden Heat, who have beaten UWBangor’s basketball team each time they’ve met over the past 3 years were Bangor’s next opponents. The game was billed as, potentially, one of the hardest games of the season with Hawarden challenging for top honours in the league.

The game, held on Sunday 8th Feb, was a one sided affair from start to finish and resulted in one of the largest margins of victory in Bangor basketball’s history, 20.

The 1st quarter saw Bangor start with a defensive press that help them take a 30-9 lead. The expectation from the Uni team was that Hawarden would get into their stride and make inroads into their lead. Much to the surprise of the Bangor team, Hawarden collapsed totally in the 2nd quarter and Bangor led the game 5413. The second half saw Bangor extend their lead further and completely dominate the game, eventually winning 118-28.

“The result doesn’t tell the whole story” said a delighted Head Coach Des Williams. “We played some of the best passing basketball I’ve seen in recent seasons. Our shot selection and defensive rebounding was excellent and the game was a good indication of things to come for the next BUSA game on Wednesday.” Bangor has one more game to play in the BUSA competition against the awesomely talented Uni of Manchester. Win or lose the Uni side have won the division, but winning against UMIST will mean that they will have won the division undefeated.

18 FEBRUARY 2004

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SPORT

UWB Women’s Rugby

By Sian Heafield

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his season, Bangor Women’s Rugby team are playing in two leagues.

Wednesdays, the team play in the First Northern division, in BUSA. Sundays, the team are involved in the North Wales league.

The North Wales matches have proved a challenge for the team, however they have made the team recognise strengths and weaknesses, helping them to develop. Despite the scores of these matches, positive aspects have been drawn upon.

So far in the BUSA league, we have played teams such as Leeds, Liverpool, Liverpool Hope, Chester and Central Lancashire.

The team has been quite successful throughout the first semester, winning four games, conceding one and only having one loss. Let’s hope that in this semester we can carry on this strong score line, which has left us in the top

half of the division.

Off the pitch, the team has a strong social side, with regular events such as court sessions. These events give the team a chance to get together off the pitch, and wear some interesting fancy dress costumes… and of course consume a few drinks! Annual events are always popular and include the Christmas meal (fancy dress is compulsory), the formal ‘end of season’ dinner and ‘old girls weekend’!

This weekend brings together the current team, with players from years gone by. Everyone present dresses up as upstanding members of society (Women’s Institute could be a good inspiration for outfits). The weekend programme also includes a match, old girls vs current team. This is a weekend of many laughs - fun is to be had by all!!

The team continue the social side, away from the Welsh hills…once a year we

bless Europe with our presence, as we go on tour. Last year the team went to Salou, for days of rugby and nights of drinking!!!

In April 2004 we shall be going to Rimmini, Italy.

That was the progress for the first half of the season; however we still have the second half to get through.

We are always looking to expand our team, so new players are always welcome. We train Monday and Thursday evenings, 7.15 until 9pm and we meet in the reception of Maes Glas. Matches are played both home and away.

Support is always appreciated, so keep watch on the intranet for any recent home fixtures.

We hope to see some new members, as well as all the old faces!

forwards kept the ball in the pack to score pushover tries and kill off the game with a convincing 5 – 59 win.

The next game came against Llanidloes, a team at the foot of the table with us. Again, we felt that this was a game for the taking and proved it throughout the game. At 7-0 down, we got back into the game with a try from Tim Taylor and conversion by Andy Tobutt. With the score tied at 7-7 we felt we had a good chance of recording a victory as we were competing in all aspects of the game. A second try from Llanidloes put them back in front but a penalty by Tobutt reduced the deficit to 10-12 at half-time. The second half was equally competitive and a try and conversion saw Llanidloes increase their lead

to 19-10. This is how the game stayed until the final 5 minutes when Llanidloes scored two soft tries to give the score line a more flattering look at 31-10. We created chances to get back into the lead but a few mistakes cost us vital territory.

The BUSA campaign kicked-off again against Manchester Met on 4th Feb. We were looking to avenge the 12-22 defeat from December and once again we went into the game in a confident mood. The weather played a huge part, with wind and driving rain dictating the game. We trailed 7-0 early on, but then a try in the corner from Ben Robinson saw us reduce the score line to 7-5. A penalty from Manchester Met increased the lead to 105 before Bangor exerted periods of pressure.

Contact Sian for mluc17@bangor.ac.uk

information:

UWB MENS RUGBY

By Andy Tobutt

The New Year started with a home fixture against Rhos. Earlier on in the season, we travelled to Rhos with a new team in place and came away losing by 26-27 in a very close encounter. Spirits were high for this game and a reversal of result seemed a distinct possibility. After twenty minutes, we trailed by 8-5, Bangor’s try coming from Dave Venables and then a key moment of the match took place. The Rhos second-row was sent-off for throwing punches and this reduced Rhos to 14 men. We felt that this would be a great opportunity to overturn the earlier defeat and created sustained amounts of pressure.

However, the Rhos defence held firm and went into half-time 22-5 ahead. The secondhalf proved to be one-way traffic as the Rhos

The weather worsened and the early exchanges of the second half saw the pitch turn into a mud-bath. We had a sloppy 15-minute period in the second half allowing Man Met to score two penalties and two tries to give them a 28-12 lead with 15 minutes remaining. We dominated the last quarter of the match, and a try by Dan Conlon gave us hope at 28-17. And then, in the final minute, a move which started in our own half ended in a break by Rupert Bevan who passed inside for Tobutt to score the final try. This was a game we felt we should of won and the conditions didn’t help us as we lost 28 - 24. We had sustained periods of pressure but just couldn’t find the end product that has been typical of our performances all season.

Ultimate Fun!

Sport Summaries Football: The first team are still sitting pretty at the top of the Gwynedd League’s Premier Division and have built up a 10-point gap between ourselves and 2nd spot. Our most recent win was a close fought affair away at Llandudno Cricketers. The university dominated the match with chance after chance going begging as our strikers had an ‘off ’ day. The university side went ahead inside ten minutes only to be pulled back by a headed goal just before half time. The second half started much the same way as the first had finished, with attacking waves down the flanks from Bangor. With ten minutes to spare and the score still at 1 - 1, Andrew Homer, the First Team Manager, made a decision to bring on our Japanese striker Koji Sato. Sato rammed home an injury time winner for the Ffriddoedd Site side in the 92nd minute much to the dismay of the Llandudno fans and players alike.

A week later, the two sides met in the local cup competition 2nd round . The university ran out 3 - 1 winners with a very convincing performance, which deserved a more flattering scoreline. Andrew Homer was struck on the head by a ball cleared by one of his own players and had to go to hospital, suffering from mild concussion and memory loss. Andy made a speedy and full recovery and was back in training a few days later.

Rugby League: Student fans are organising a new Rugby League club as an alternative to Rugby Union with possible matches against local clubs such as the North Wales Coasters, the University of Central Lancashire, Chester, Lancaster and Salford all in the pipeline.

The club is to be set up for fans of the sport as well as a competitive university sport. Membership will be in the region of £5 with two floodlit training sessions per week. Anyone interested should get along to the Rugby League stall at Serendipity 2 or contact Ben: elucae@bangor.ac.uk Swimming: Although the Christmas season is always quiet, the swimming team’s next BUSA competition will be held on the 20th to the 22nd of February with the BUSA final to look forward to in May. A small ‘tour’ of Dublin will also be taking place in the near future although dates have yet to be finalised. If funds allow, the team will also return to Aberystwyth for the annual friendly.

The team has returned to Bangor Pool for its weekly training session on Sunday from 7-8pm, coached by Tegwyn Roberts, the North Wales swimming coach.

Land training in partnership with the Octopush club is also on offer for those interested, taking place on Friday nights between 7-8pm in the Normal Site Main Hall.

Membership for the year is £6 although participants will also have to obtain an A.U. card. Socials take place at the Tap and Spile after Sunday’s training.

FEBRUARY 2004 19

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SPORT

By Erin Swails

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ollowing a successful first indoor season, the new Ultimate Frisbee team at Bangor is anticipating an exciting spring outdoor season. In November the team sent two squads to its very first competition in Birmingham. Most of the Bangor team had never played Ultimate prior to the start of last term. Nonetheless the squads managed to earn 11th and 16th place in a field of 20, proving the team to be competitive despite its lack of experience.

This term the team is considering competitions in Bristol and Dublin. The Dublin competition is Ireland’s biggest Ultimate Frisbee tournament of the year with teams coming from several European countries for two days of intense competition and a social atmosphere that is unique to the sport.

While Ultimate Frisbee is a fast-paced and physically demanding sport, organized Ultimate is different from any other sport in that games are never refereed, even at the interna-

tional level.

T h i s requires a very high level of sportsmanship among competitors, and perhaps contributes to the great social scene that has helped make the sport so popular worldwide.

‘Ultimate is a sport that everyone can play,’ says Bangor team member Duncan Smallman. Most Ultimate players learn to play while at university, having no experience with the sport prior to coming to school. Another distinguishing aspect of ultimate is that it is co-ed – women and men compete on the same team. As a new club, they do not receive funding from the university until next year. Even

though Ultimate Frisbee is a relatively inexpensive sport, the club is looking forward to receiving proper funding next year that will help with the cost of buying kit and travelling to competitions. The Bangor team currently trains at the Normal Site gym Monday evenings and at the Non Torth outdoor site on the weekend. Socials are held in the Friddoedd bar on Thursday nights. The team welcomes anyone to join, especially women since all female team members will be graduating this year!

Contact club captain Erin Swails at afpe48@bangor.ac.uk for further details.

The Very Big and The Very Small S

teve McClure will enlighten us on the secret of his success. Steve is one of the strongest and most committed climbers in the UK. Famous for pushing grades into new realms of difficulty he gives an insight into what it takes to succeed at the 9a grade and why the hell anyone would want to go to such extremes.

First inspired by the Dawes slate masterpiece ‘The Very Big and The Very Small’, Steve’s focus shifted from trad to the hardest rock routes possible. Having recently packed in his job, Steve discusses how his mo-

tivation has moved on from the very small, super hard redpoints in Britain to long onsights in Europe, and more recently to the very big trad walls of Greenland.

The show will also feature: - Grey Hairs And Gravity, a short docu-film by American filmmaker Dave Vaughn.

- From Gritstone to Greenland - Stunning photographs set to music by acclaimed photographer Nick Boden.

- A short Deep Water Soloing film by Mark Reeves - featuring Leo Houlding, Johnny Dawes and some very, very big falls.

- More stunning photographs, this time taken by a number of UK based women, again set to music.

- Competitions sponsored by Fat Face, Petzl, and POD. Tickets cost £4.50 in advance and £5 on the door. Shows start at 7.45pm. Full details and ticket sales can be found at www.heason.net

Photo: Keith Sharples

McClure climbing a new route called ‘New Age’ graded F7c - Cubo Magico, Sardinia ►

Photo: Adrian Berry