Seren - 213 - 2010/11 - Freshers Issue

Bangor Students’ Union’s English Language Newspaper

ISSN 1755-7585

Issue No. 213

Freshers’ Issue 2010

HOORAY FOR HENDRE!

INSIDE: sunday

monday

Your guide to Freshers' Week xxx

Jenny

STUDENT EXCITEMENT AT REPLACEMENT NIGHTCLUB

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fter a summer of uncertainty for existing students as well as Bangor’s new Freshers we may breathe a sigh of relief as a temporary solution is offered to house our Students’ Union nightclub.

Hendre Hall has come to the rescue and will now be the home of our club for the foreseeable future.

The recent demolition of Amser/Time and Academi to make way for the Pontio Project has created uproar amongst students.

The University appear disorganised destroying, the old union building before securing a new one. Furthermore, complaints have been made at the university’s lack of urgency in finding a suitable replacement, leaving the new sabbatical officers at the Students’ Union to communicate the concerns of the students and pressure the university into rehousing our union.

For a while it looked as though the Robinson building, situated on Deniol Road, would be ideal for the period between now and Pontio - a suitable central location just a stone’s throw away from the old union.

However, after the planning application submitted by the university to Gwynedd council

was deferred to a later planning meeting, we were once again left with no suitable nightclub for the first term of the new academic year. Mike Goodwin, Director of Estates at the University said, “As you will be aware the University was disappointed that the decision regarding the work to the Robinson building was deferred…but we also recognise the right of others to have their say in terms of planning applications”. The question remains: why didn’t the university submit the application for the Robinson building sooner? Blaming Gwynedd Council and residents for using more time to consider the application seems rather like a polite passing of the buck.

The decision by the council came after a “substantial number of objections” from local residents were brought to light including concerns about improper sound proofing.

The Bangor City Council’s planning and amenities committee voted to defer the planning as their reservations about noise and

traffic were too severe. They also suggested that the building was not purpose-built, as the recently demolished building was. Although some community groups in Bangor have supported the move to the Robinson building, notably the People of Bangor Community group, and Students’ Union President Jo Caulfield has spoken out to local residents, it has not yet been enough to change their opinion. The case will be re-heard in the coming months, and fingers crossed we may have the Robinson building approved.

In the mean time, our Students’ Union offices can be found in the Oswald building directly behind Ffriddoedd site. This building houses the Advice Centre, your sabbatical officers, Student Finance and Student Volunteering Bangor. Ms. Caulfield commented “the Oswald building is a temporary solution and is not ideal; we hope to be in the Robinson as soon as possible”.

Unfortunately, due to a huge amount of refurbishment, the building will not be ready until the end of Freshers’ Week

For now though, comments from Ms. Caulfield saying that it is ‘imperative’ that our new students are provided for have prompted the university to do something about the nightclub situation. The Sabbs’ hard work and communication with the University has paid off and we now have Hendre Hall to party in. Suggestions from the Sabbs that students would be disappointed with the lack of nightlife and that it may even deter future entrants clearly struck a chord with the University and they have come up with a safe and reasonable solution.

Just out of central Bangor, Hendre Hall promises to be a lively alternative location to Robinson. Security and shuttle buses from several points in Bangor mean we are able to travel freely and safely to and from the building to attend many of our favourite nights including Lost Property and good old Cheese.

Unfortunately, due to an ongoing refurbishment, the building will not be ready until the end of Freshers’ Week. Surely a unique three-roomed night club and free transport is better than nothing?

(Continued on Page 3...)

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EDITORIAL

Freshers’ Issue 2010 www.seren.bangor.ac.uk

Hi folks!

Freshers’ Issue 2010 Contributors: Georgia Mannion Aaron Wiles Kaden Wild Emily Collins Jo Caulfield Luke Dobson Hayley Neill Barnaby Gilford Thom Flint Martin Singleton Danielle Giles Nik Hughes Jez Harvery Amy Mulholland Photography: Gemma Ellis

Welcome to the Freshers’ issue of Seren.

I am writing this with 10 minutes to spare before the print deadline and have been awake for so many hours I have lost track of what day it is. Nevertheless, I have greatly enjoyed bringing you this, my very first, issue of Seren which I hope you will read cover to cover to take in all the journalistic genius, which for this issu e includes a new three page feature, VERY important information on the Natio nal Demo and some need to know info on your Students Union. For those of you who haven’t really heard of Seren before, there is a cross word on p17, sta rt there and work your way through, I guarantee there will be something you like !

If there is a feature or article that really get s you going, be sure to get in touch at: editor@seren.bangor.ac.uk I would love to know what you think of the new features, old classics and overall content. You can also get involved, drop me a line and lets see if you make the cut!

Until next time, enjoy Freshers’ Week, rea

Gemma XXX

d Seren and welcome to Bangor,

Special thanks to: Daniel Turner Willow Smith

Proof reading:

Luke Dobson Jennifer Krase Jo Caulfield Hayley Neill

RECYCLE ME!

to Hello hello hello! Welcome from 100% Seren which is now made e action and recycled paper. Get in on th e done! recycle me and when you ar

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NEWS

The interim replacement offers a student-dedicated alternative to The Octagon and Base and although some students have criticized the out-of-city move, security paid for by the University promises to keep students safe.

The majority of students are supportive of the Students’ Union for lobbying the University into finding an alternative to the Robinson building at such short notice. Students will now be able to fundraise using the nightclub and societies will once again have space for training and rehearsing. Hendre Hall also has both indoor and outdoor space, making it an exciting and unusual venue for a night out.

Let’s not overshadow the excitement of Hendre by dwelling on the University’s failure to procure a permanent building, for now let’s thank the Students’ Union for fighting our corner and providing us with another night-time venue. Hooray for Hendre!

Gemma Ellis

Join the fight to protect our education!

This November, students will be taking to the streets of London for a national demo to defend universities against cuts and an increase in fees, and to protect our future.

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s a new term begins, it is a time out of the recession with a highly-skilled for mixed feelings. The new edand innovative workforce, rather than ucational year should be a time one that has had all aspiration sapped for excitement about the possibilities out of it whilst sitting on the dole-queue. and opportunities that lie ahead, and yet Many other countries, most notably the looming over us is a shadow that threatUSA and France, are investing in educaens our future. tion for exactly this reason. Sadly, our You can barely have escaped discus- government seems to be ignoring these sion of government funding cuts to our arguments and investment lags well beeducation sector. These savage cuts will hind the international average. affect us all, and we now face an urgent Clearly then, a mixture of governneed to build a counter-consensus in fa- ment spending cuts and a rise in tuition vour of investment. We can only do so by fees would spell disaster - both for the coming together. students who end up paying more for In October, the government will outless, and for the young people denied line where the next round of funding the opportunity of a university or college cuts will hit education.

These savage cuts will affect us all, and a reIt is time view of fees and we now face an urgent need to for us to and fund- build a counter-consensus in favour stand up toing will be gether and be published. of investment. We can only do so counted. NUS by coming together.

Sadly, we are planning, do not have together with to wait until then to know that the cuts the lecturer’s trade union UCU, to hold will be both savage and deeply paina national demonstration against cuts to ful – with more students crammed into the further and higher education sectors lecture theatres, course closures, staff on Wednesday 10 November 2010, in redundancies and less money available central London. We need as many of you for student support. This year already, as possible to be with us on the day, tofunding Bangor University has available gether we will demonstrate our strength to distribute to students in need has been and give the politicians no alternative slashed by 66%. but to listen and act.

This is all happening whilst university Bangor Students’ Union is organising vice chancellors across the country are transport to get as many of you lot down calling for a further hike in tuition fees there on 10th November – you can sign – with the richest institutions wanting as up at Serendipity (the freshers’ fair) on much as £10,000 per year. This is clearly 22nd & 23rd of September and in the unacceptable and will make higher edunear future you’ll be able to sign up on cation only available to those from exour (soon-to-be revamped) website: ceptionally privileged backgrounds. bangorstudents.com. Let’s stand up and To make matters worse, this is all hapbe counted, let’s show them what we’re pening against a backdrop of increasing made of! Watch this space… youth unemployment, which is expected to pass million by next summer. It Jo Caulfield would therefore be sensible to have as many people as possible in education and training, so that we are able to come

www.nus.org

.uk

www.nus.org.uk www.nus.org.uk

www.demo20 10.org.uk

www.demo2010.org.uk www.demo2010.org.uk

BANGOR IN BRIEF BANGOR IN BRIEF

Continued from front page...

BANGOR IN BRIEF BANGOR IN BRIEF BANGOR IN BRIEF BANGOR IN BRIEF

Freshers’ Issue 2010 www.seren.bangor.ac.uk

BIG PLANS FOR BANGOR Plans for two new developments in Bangor, show promise for the city. Proposals are afoot for the old Post Office on Deiniol Road to be converted into a new leisure complex which when completed will provide a Club, a medical practice and a food court for the locals and students of the area and for a new H&M store to open in the Menai Centre in the High Street. A meeting held on the 6th of September saw the Bangor City Council approve the proposal with councillors reportedly very pleased about the arrangement. The centre looks set to become a major cultural hub for students and locals alike, as plans for piano, harp, violin and band music are planned along with regular shows by comedians and singers live at the facility. Dates for the renovation so far are unconfirmed, but with the recent loss of Time/Amser and Academi, we will no doubt be looking forward to the introduction of a new club to the sporadic nightlife in Bangor.

BOYLE’S BACK Director of Trainspotting, 28 Days Later, Slumdog Millionaire and Bangor University graduate, Danny Boyle has a new film touring the film festivals. Already wowing the critics, 127 Hours is the story of Aron Ralston (played

by James Franco) a mountain climber who had a horrific accident in 2003. Whilst adventuring in a Utah canyon a boulder dislodged and trapped him by his arm. Stuck there for five days Aron made the sickening yet life saving choice of cutting his arm off with the dull blade in his pack. He then had to rappel down a 65ft canyon wall and hike 8 miles out of the canyon.

This amazing story should be another hit for My Boyle but will it mean another Oscar for our alumni director?

Chaplaincy Team Lecture A new joint- venture of the Chaplaincy Team this term is to organise a public lecture within the University. These lectures are intended to explore broad areas where religion engages contemporary society and ethical issues.

Our first lecture will be on ‘God, Science, and Global Warming’ in Main Arts Lecture Theatre (MALT) on Wednesday November 24th beginning at 7pm.

The speaker will be Sir John Houghton, an eminent scientist - former Oxford Professor, Chief Exec of the Met Office, and Chair of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change - and an active Christian. The lecture is free and open to University staff and students plus members of the public.

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NEWS

Freshers’ Issue 2010 www.seren.bangor.ac.uk

Coalition Catch-up

Battle of the Brothers

A brief summary of what the Tory-Liberal coalition has been up to with the country so far

T Initially David Miliband held the lead in the race to be Labour Party leader. However recently Ed has caught up making it likely that he could snatch a victory with only a few votes...

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ith only two weeks to go in the battle to be Labour leader, Ed and David Miliband get hot under the collar as they compete for the top spot.

Polls have shown that it is a two horse race with Andy Burnham, Ed Balls and Diane Abbott lagging behind the brothers in the race to be leader. But who will be victorious? Candidates have to secure votes from three groups: party members, trade unionists and party MPs and MEPs which each have a third of the vote making up the tripartite system. Initially David Miliband held the lead however, recently Ed has caught up making it likely that he could snatch a victory with only a few votes.

Ed, the ‘Change to Win’ candidate suggests that it is his “rejection of this New Labour nostalgia that makes [him] the modernising candidate at this election”. He suggests that the recent loss of Labour voters was due to Labour taking the working class vote for granted and mis-representing the people within the party. These voters were then swayed

towards the Conservative Party and it is these voters that he wants to attract.

David, the senior brother, embodies the more traditional core values of New Labour; “equality, cooperation, compassion” and whose slogan represents his objective, to bring Labour into power.

He suggests that a Conservative coalition government will bring the wrong change to Britain and that he stands for the men and women seeking work, the pensioner and the student.

Both candidates have potential and embody the ideals of unity and fairness within the party in different ways. The brothers seem defined by each other, even going as far as to promise to nominate the other as their second voting preference. But which brother shall be pipped to the post and represent the Labour Party in the future? Seren will keep you posted.

Gemma Ellis

campaigning against VAT rises during the his year we have seen our first election) and seem to be arguing amongst coalition government since the themselves with regards to higher educaSecond World War. We also have the youngest Prime Minister in 200 years. tion funding (graduate tax, raising fees Our current government is made up of etc – see page 6 for more detail). There two parties who many would say could not be more politically opposed; but “This government is bound to somehow they have managed to come to be known for its cuts to almost an agreement on how to run the country everyone’s budgets and some together. marked turn-arounds by Since this agreement was formed, Nick Clegg” there have been a reasonable number of controversial moves made by the gov- have also been rumblings of the kinds of ernment. In order to fill the gaping hole privatisation the Tories are infamous for in the country’s finances they have been and large-scale redundancies are being considering, suggesting and enforcing announced on a daily basis.

This all paints a fairly negative picture cuts to a large variety of services (like the police force and NHS direct). They have and it is important to note that things may improve; but in its first 6 months raised VAT to 20% (despite the Lib Dems

Cuts

David Cameron has said he doesn’t want this government to be known for making cuts. There are quite a few going on, though...

- Building Schools for the Future. £55bn.

700 projects cancelled.

- Child trust funds. £520m.

- Council funding. £1.165bn.

- Strategic health authorities and primary care trusts. £80bn - Courts. £37m. 157 magistrates and county courts to close.

- Ministerial salaries. £3m. Ministers paid 5% less than last year.

- Ministerial cars. £5m.

- Proposed cuts to Higher Education funding (see page 6 for more on that)

this government is bound to be known for its wide-ranging and deep cuts to almost everyone’s budgets and for some fairly marked turn-arounds by the Liberal Democrat leader, Nick Clegg.

The most pressing issues for us as students are the results of the Browne review (which is looking into the best way to structure and deal with funding for higher education) and the government’s response to it. You can find a more detailed article on this on page 6 and you can also find out how to get involved in fighting higher fees by checking out The National Demo on page 3.

Emily Collins

U-Turns

Here are a few of the more notable switches of opinion and public relations nightmares that have followed the coalition’s formation...

- Clegg dropped plans requiring 55% of MPs to vote for a dissolution of Government.

- The coalition agreement said Capital Gains Tax would go up to rates “similar or close to those applied to income”, but George Osborne only raised it to 28%.

- Cameron made remarks about Islamabad’s terror record, angering Pakistan and later apologising.

- Downing Street hurredly said Clegg was speaking in a personal capacity after he described the Iraq war as illegal.

- Cameron ruled out scrapping free school milk after idea floated by a health minister.

- Crispin Blunt, a justice minister, said he would allow parties in prisons, but this angered No 10 and he was overruled.

- Nick Clegg said reform of the electoral system, which has always been a central plank of the party’s policy, was not his “sole purpose in life.”

- At their first press conference, Cameron said eating your words was “an excellent diet” when reminded he had once called Clegg a joke.

- Cabinet Office said Clegg made a “slip of the tongue” when he said the government would back a yes vote in the referendum on powers for the Welsh assembly. Government will be neutral.

Costing your family fortunes!

New pole shows almost half of us rely on money from family and friends to fund education.

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ould you struggle with the cost of university without that extra help from friends and family?

Does your loan only just cover the cost of your accommodation? A pole by the National Union of Students (NUS) and the HSBC has found that thousands of us would have dropped out of university without the financial backing of our family.

The survey of 3,863 students revealed that almost half of us would not have the money to survive at university without our families support, struggling with the cost of accommodation, gas and electricity bills, clothes, food and books. It seems that a large number of us are now indebted to our parents, having to ask for money during the year to cope on our own, many of us even call on university hardship funds for help. It also appears that of those receiv-

ing help from their families two thirds are from more privileged back grounds, meaning that those of us from poorer houses are much less likely to receive hand outs from home.

Ahead of the government’s plans to cut spending we hope that they do not miss the opportunity to invest in us, without the funding to go to university many of us with the talent to do so may miss out and only those from wealthier backgrounds will fill the places. Furthermore as the funding our university has available to students has been more than halved this year the number of us receiving help from home looks set to rise again in the coming months.

Lord Browne is considering a rise in tuition fees as well as assessing the amount

we receive in loans and grants which could be bad news for us and those looking to go to university in the coming years (see National Demo article p3).

Aaron Porter, president of the NUS commented, "If the government misses this opportunity to implement a progressive funding system, it is clear that many young people, particularly those from poorer backgrounds with the ability and ambition to go to university, would have their opportunities restricted”. As a staggering number of us already rely on family to fund our education can those on a lower income cope with cuts? Let Seren know what you think on this, do you rely on your family to fund you? editor@seren.bangor.ac.uk

Gemma Ellis

"If the go ver oppor tun nment misses thi progress ity to implement s iv a is clear t e funding system, ha it ple, par ti t many young peo poorer ba cular ly those from c ability an kgrounds with th e d university ambition to go to ,w oppor tun ould have their ities rest ricted”

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NEWS

Freshers' Issue 2010 www.seren.bangor.ac.uk

Can Britain cope

with the Pope?

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Cost of visit: £20 million Taxpayers money: priceless?

y the time you read this, the Pope will have started his visit to the UK. This is the first time in 28 years the Pontiff has visited the UK, and has caused controversy from some fairly diverse groups.The first issue that has provoked adverse reaction is that the taxpayer will be paying for a large percentage of the trip’s cost. This is because the Pope (as well as being the Head of the Catholic Church) is the Head of State of the Vatican, the city-state in Rome.

Despite the Pope’s visit to the UK being a largely religious affair, as a Head of State, it is standard for it to be paid for at the cost of the Government. However, 77% of people polled by Theos, a religious think-tank, stated that they believed it was wrong for the taxpayer to pay. The same poll revealed that 24% believed it was wrong for the Pope to visit the country at all, with 49% of people feeling it was acceptable.

The 4 day visit will cost around £20 million, not including the costs associated with policing all the events. Whilst the Vatican are contributing roughly £9 million, many are still upset that they are not contributing more, arguing that with the Vatican’s wealth (estimated by Time Magazine at roughly $10-15 billion), it could cover more of the costs.

As well, many people are pointing to the last visit by a Pope in 1982, when all

the public events were free of entry charge.

This year, by comparison, people are being charged up to £25 to attend public events.

The costs of the 1982 trip were also met largely by the Vatican.

The other group angry at the visit is the collection of human rights activists, known as Protest the Pope, who have got behind a campaign to arrest the Pope for what they view as a variety of “crimes against humanity”. Groups are protesting due to the Catholic Church’s teachings on certain issues including AIDS, LGBT rights and the cover up of sexual abuse

cases.

Many of the protestors believe that until the Church changes its teachings and position on these life and death matters, the Pope should be regarded as a criminal, and far from being at the centre of a four day state visit, should be arrested.

Whilst it is unlikely that such a thing will be allowed to happen during the event, it is an indication of the markedly changed perception of the Catholic Church in this country.

Jez Harvey

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STUDENT SLUMS?

t often seems that the students of Bangor can do no right in the eyes of the council and local residents.

Only recently have they rejected our request for a new nightclub in the name of noise pollution limiting our student experience and potentially deterring future entrants but now it seems our housing is causing them concern. It is the amount of student housing which is raising alarm bells and leading some to compare the living conditions to “modern day slums”.

This comes after Gwynedd council have given the go ahead to develop a site which already holds nine self contained units and plans to develop nine more.

The town clerks concerns include having little or no car parking facilities, limited room for bins and waste and that having so many people in such a small place will encourage a slum like environment. The Bangor and Anglesey mail even reported the cities ‘frustration’ over more student

housing. And while these worries could be justified Seren’s concern is the reputation of students and how quickly the council and spokes people are to damn our living conditions before they are even built. It is worth remembering student schemes such as ‘Give Rubbish the Chop’ and our student’s union constant efforts to put money into the local economy with the creation of the ‘Love Bangor’ card. Both of these things ought to be considered before speculating about our potential to harm the city as well as the salient consideration that this is our home too.

Gemma Ellis

spOILing our oceans The spills you didnt know about

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010 has seen the largest oil spill in the history of the petroleum industry. The Deepwater Horizon oil spill spill was the largest ever and therefore required a massive response, but 706 million gallons of oil enter the in the Gulf of Mexico dominated the news for much of the 86 days it was pumping toxic hydrocarbons ocean every year and if that oil isn’t threatening wealthy countries like the US, no one seems to talk or do into the waters around it and prompted high-profile discussions between politicians and business men anything about it. In the example mentioned above off the coast of China, the media provided no coverage alike. US President Barack Obama condemned BP’s ‘negligence’ and referred to it as ‘British Petroleum’ (this and the clean-up operation involved local fishermen being recruited to drag oil out of the sea with their hands, hasn’t been its name since 1998), causing anger at Britain and placing tenbottles and shovels; quite a different picture to the military force used to sions on international relations. It was and continues to be a terrible event, Something that you may not have no- counter the spread of oil in the Gulf of Mexico.

Oil has countless nasty effects in the water, on animals and on shoreplacing people’s lives, livelihoods and environments at risk and continuing to ticed, however, is that during 2010 there lines. It is flammable, sticks to boats, people and birds and can form a thick destroy the delicate eco-systems in, on and around the Ocean.

Something that you may not have noticed, however, is that during 2010 have actually been 10 separate oil spills. mousse or tar balls. As well as killing fish and vegetation, it can also poison there have actually been 10 separate oil spills. None of them have been on the food chain so that humans who eat fish from an effected area can bethe scale of The Deepwater Horizon oil spill, but one (off the coast of Egypt) come ill. The destruction of touristic areas can have severe effects on the has been named the worst spill in Egyptian history, destroying 100s of miles of tourist beaches. Another spill economy of areas that rely on tourism for income. In short, the risks presented by the human race’s continued (off the coast of China) managed to spread to an area of 946km2. Did you hear about those in the news? Did reliance on oil far outweigh the benefits of using it. There are cleaner, safer, more progressive energy and fuel anyone put up £20 billion to spend on clearing them up or fighting over who would answer to Barack Obama’s sources and it is time these were pursued before the desperate measures to find new oil sources and cut coranger? The answer is no. ners to maximise the huge profits of the oil companies manages to destroy more than it already has.

Most of the people who are at risk from oil spills (generally the people who drill for and transport oil) have Emily Collins neither the power nor money to do anything about it when something goes wrong. The Deepwater Horizon

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COMMENT

Freshers’ Issue 2010 www.seren.bangor.ac.uk

Barnaby

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t is well known that the Pope is visiting the UK this week. It is, however, a little known fact that a group of Catholic’s have been hosting a ‘gay friendly mass’ in one of their churches. This is a surprising event as the Catholic Church actively condemns homosexuality as immoral and Pope Benedict XVI seems specifically set upon declaring it as evil.

The clergy at the London church Our Lady of the Assumption and St Gregory has established a mass where homosexuals can celebrate mass without fear of condemnation.

It has become a place of pastoral care, tapping into the core belief of Christianity that is ‘Love thy neighbour’.

The very existence of this mass is just one of several signs that British Catholic’s seem to reject the Pope’s teachings on homosexuality and instead follow their own consciences.

We are now a decade into the twenty first century and institutional hatred of a group of people should, after all, be recognised for the appalling abuse of power and trust that it is.

Yet there are some traditionalist parishioners who pray outside the church whilst the mass goes on, holding firm to the rotten dogma of the Pope. The Archbishop of the diocese supports the mass and has said that “Anybody who is trying to cast a judgement on the people who

come forward for communion really ought to hold their tongue.”

The Pope himself has declared a similar statement in the past stating that “Everyone has a place in t h e church, e v e r y p e r s o n w i t h o u t exception should be able to feel at home and never rejected.” The hypocrisy that resonates throughout that quote is, frankly, astounding as this Pope has been one of the harshest and critically reviled of recent times. With his non-inclusive attitude, he has stopped the Church, with the aid of ‘traditionalists’, from moving forward. Female priests, homosexuality, condoms and the audacity to brush the child abuse scandal under the carpet ‘for the sake of the Church’ are all issues which show this man to be an ignorant bigot if not a fool.

The hope that a mass such as this brings to me is amazing and I’m not even religious. If religion can accept people for who they are and move on to help them, and those in need all around the world, regardless of any trait then they will live up to

their promises. For an LGBT person who is Catholic I couldn’t even begin to understand the difference this must make. This mass had to be sanctioned by the Vatican and if the hierarchy of the Church can finally allow a safe haven for homosexuals who want to take part in their faith, it is a wonderful opportunity and an example to be made.

More and more parishes need to adopt a mass like this if there is to be any significant progress made. The Church is its much professed billions of members. Without believers it would have nothing. The power is in the people of parishes all over the UK and, hopefully, this will begin to push through into Europe and beyond.

A grassroots religious movement based around love and acceptance: the morals that a young carpenter from Galilee preached of. Maybe His Holiness will then, finally, see the light.

Luke Dobson

Bobby’s on the ‘beat’ y attacked.

Pamela Somerville, br utall

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fter just six days imprisoned, Sergeant Mark Andrews, the Wiltshire Police Sergeant charged with the 2008 attack on drink driving suspect Pamela Somerville, this week walked free on bail.

The former army sergeant, 37, was recorded by CCTV at Melksham Police Station dragging the helpless Mrs. Somerville, then 57, who had been detained after being discovered asleep in her car, across the floor of the station’s reception before catapulting her into a holding cell, leaving the injured woman, blood gushing from her face, prostrate on the concrete floor. The market researcher, now 59, from Chippenham, may need and operation to save the sight in her left eye. She told reporters: “I had done absolutely nothing wrong. What happened to me was

extraordinary, terrifying, and no one should ever be treated in the same way ever again, no matter what they are said to have done.”

Andrews, a father of two, was branded ‘a disgrace to the force’ by colleagues after he was sentenced to six months for assault causing. actual bodily harm at Oxford Magistrate’s Court.

The news of Andrew’s release comes just days after story that a post-mortem on the body of Ian Tomlinson, the newspaper seller who died at last year’s G20 protests, attracting widespread criticism of riot police’s actions at the protest, was withheld from authorities, alongside allegations of incompetence levelled at the official coroner tasked with establishing the cause of death. Dr. Freddy Patel, who carried out the first inquest into the innocent man’s

Do we still trust the police force? death, has recently been suspended from practice by the General Medical Council on charges of misconduct in as many as three earlier cases.

Few stories can attract quite as much media attention as those of police brutality, and the inevitable result can only be to damage the public image of a force which is likely to become stretched thin in the future, and at a time of possible widespread civil unrest, if their own sources are to be believed. Among the left, one of the few perceived benefits of the new coalition government could be seen to be an end put to the mindless, war on terror era expansion of the police forces’ role within society.

The left will be hoping that the new government will be able to keep the police in check, as part of a wider restoral of civil liberties in the UK. Yet these stories do little to encourage confidence in a new era of UK policing, rather, it paints a grim picture for a future of a nation of local police authorities running, overstretched, uncensured and scared, from the threat of ruthless government cutbacks, in a manner that will only lead to repeats of incidents like these dominating the UK headlines.

“I had done absolutely nothing wrong.

What happened to me was extraordinary, terrifying.”

Thom Flint

Sergeant Mark Andrews

your columnist Barnaby, welcoming you to freshers life in bangor

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ell here we are again, another year of fresh meat for the grinder. At this moment you are just trying to settle in, get accustomed to your new environment, pondering what your flatmates are like, and how you want the interior of your room to feel more like home which includes hoarding souvenirs from the Highways Authority.

Your parents have left you for the imminent future, struck with a case of polemic anguish of condemnation and worry for your potential forthcoming lifestyle, and envious nostalgia for a lost time in their illustrious juvenile past.

You are their bright and best, with high hopes of future success and hoisting the family flag above the deluge of underachievement in this lousy world.

Yet you are about to embark on an adventure of your very own, one filled of jovial escapades, endearing friendships, stupid o’clock paperwork, and a plethora of opportunities to wet the appetite of the modest of socialites and ladder climbers. The spoils of student life is within your grasp, and like many other seasoned veterans here at Bangor, we will tell you to take as much as you can!

So how does one subscribe to these treasures you ask? The answer is in many ways, you are equipped with a golden ticket courtesy of the generous (and begrudgingly) taxpayers, and are let loose on this sugar coated new freedom. Chiefly know your allies.

Get to know who you are living with and indulge in many get-to-togethers, usually in the kitchen. Have fun and learn about each others quirks. Go out on the town together adopt a pub for a local (or many). Get some parties on the go, themed ones are better.

One time my esteemed (or steamed) colleagues and I got a beach party in our halls with palm trees and paddling pools. Be sure to check your place out, look for potential props and interesting cubbyholes to exploit. We once found an axe and a bottle of Magners in our ceiling.

Join socials and clubs at Serendipity!

There are loads to choose from, be creative and try something new or keep to your strengths, there is something for everyone. Explore, there is a lot around Bangor and the wider area to do and see, Snowdonia is a must, along with Caernarfon and Anglesey, Llandudno, where I once walked into the parade of a Victorian festival, spiffing. Don’t be afraid to get creative in the food department, beans on toast and pot noodles can be your break glass if emergency dinners. You can make some mean roasts in those kitchens, we got Christmas dinner for 10 out of one. The alternative is to get your parents to airdrop some Red Cross parcels of home cooking. And even though we all mourn the loss of the SU in Time and Academi do not despair, as we are the source of invention for the new world, creating fun is a priority and Bangor will not be short of it.

Some of you won’t make the cut, but you might as well enjoy the ride while you’re here.

Good luck newbies.

B

7

FEATURES

Freshers' Issue 2010 www.seren.bangor.ac.uk

BRITVIC-TORY

COCA-COLA KICKED OUT OF BANGOR UNIVERISTY!

I

f we ever find life in the universe and they visit us without destructive intentions one of their first questions will be “What is this Coca-Cola we’re seeing everywhere?” It is, after all, the most well known brand in the world. The company has stretched across the globe and touches every civilisation regardless of economic standing. Well not in Bangor, not anymore.

Bangor University has cancelled its contract with Coca-Cola after a well fought campaign by Bangor Amnesty Student Society. Now every vending machine and cafe under the veil of the university will serve Britvic products.

But why? Innumerable hordes of people drink Coca-Cola’s products whether it is the eponymous Coke, Fanta, Sprite and countless other beverages. It is loved by many regardless of the health concerns. Yet I get the feeling that you don’t really care about the insane amounts of sugar. It’s coke; you’ve grown up with it.

The campaign, spearheaded on Facebook from the ‘Kick Coca-Cola out of Bangor University!’ group, led the charge against the company because of the apparent crimes that have been committed in its factories in India, China, Columbia, Turkey, Mexico etc etc.

Union leaders and factory workers in Columbia and Guatemala have been illegally arrested, tortured and even murdered by paramilitary groups under the supervision of the managers of the factories. This is an

example of the most extreme crimes that Coca-Cola has allegedly covered up.

There have been workers in China who have revealed that the working conditions in the factories, including excessive working hours and inadequate rights, are appalling. In India the environmental effect of having a Coca-Cola in an area has been shown to be highly detrimental with pollution levels rising

"Coke is as addictive as cocaine and just as bad, with all the human costs that making, shipping and distributing the illegal drug inflict" to the point where the groundwater and soil become polluted. The environment and adults aren’t the only ones being abused by the company; there are records of child labour being used in El Salvador.

Of course it has become increasingly clear over the last few years that many companies are practising dubious corporate habits around the world and especially in third world countries. So why then was CocaCola targeted for commercial excommunication from

the University?

The health concerns have been very clear for years now. The amount of sugar and additives in the mixture that becomes many of Coke’s soft drinks is simply bad for us.

When you drink a can of Coke 10 teaspoons of sugar (100% of your recommended daily allowance) hits your system and the only reason that you don’t vomit from this sudden intake of sugar is because the phosphoric acid disguises it from your body.

Within an hour you’ve had a sugar high which releases the same chemicals in your brain as if you’d taken heroin and, once you’ve been to the loo, have made your body evacuate all the water that was in the drink taking healthy nutrients from your body with it. Diabetes, heart disease and obesity follow if you drink Coke often.

Involved in the abuse and murder of its workers, causing massive health risks and it’s detrimental to the environment. This is the company that created our image of Father Christmas.

So what drinks can you buy from the University cafes now? Don’t worry, we aren’t being left with water and Rola Cola.

Admittedly Britvic inspires images of orange juice in little glass bottles sold in the pub. However they are the parent distributer for Pepsi, 7UP, Tango, Robinsons, Mountain Dew, J2O, Gatorade, R Whites and many others. Compared with CocaCola it is a shining example of a company.

Also there is little, if any, evidence that it has caused anything approaching the level of international controversy as our ex-distributor has. In fact it would appear to be as ethical a company as there can be with the webiste stating that “a number of our suppliers have already undergone third party ethical audits. We will shortly be commissioning further third party audits in Asia and South America to ensure compliance of key suppliers in these locations.” These audits will make sure that the

farmers who grow the fruit that Britvic use, and their factory workers, are being treated justly.

There will be people who are going to be saying things such as “Why did they have to get rid of Coke?” and “What? Even Sprite?!” Be incredulous because this is Coca-Cola and many students live off it as much as Primary School children but take into account what the camnpsign was for. People have been killed in their factories. Not faceless, nameless numbers but actual men and women with thie rindidivual lives. Just because they were in country’s which are politically restless does not mean that they can attempt to cover it up. Until I began writing this article I was dubious about the decision myself. Yet being presented with the reasons why our Amnesty group began to campaign I have to agree with them and the University. Coke is as addictive as cocaine and just as bad, with all the human costs that making, shipping and distributing the illegal drug inflict.

Even if you still don’t agree with the decision of the University to bow to the campaign I’m afraid that we now have Britvic products to purchase on campus.

Off campus there is no city wide ban on all Coca-Cola products; you can still go to Morrisons and buy a litre bottle of Coke. This change in policy is a statement against a company which has committed corporate and humanitarian crimes and still dominates the world with its endearing annual Christmas advert and its blood red logo.

Luke Dobson

Britvic alternatives to Coca Cola: Pepsi Tango 7up

Coke Drench Oasis Fanta 55 Orange Just Juice Sprite ...and you'll find more around the university!

Experienced, professional and hygienic body piercing with a full range of body jewellery, including kitsch necklaces, organic tunnels and more....

Find Mouse at the internationally award winning Redskin Tattoo 239 High Street Bangor

Tel: 01248-355-007 www: redskintattoo.co.uk E-mail: littleperforations@yahoo.co.uk

8

SOCIETIES

Halls Societies

Freshers’ Issue 2010 www.seren.bangor.ac.uk

I

f you have just arrived in Bangor, or you are staying in halls for another year, what better way to kick start the new academic year with a bit of halls rivalry? Our smashing new sabbatical team have created new Halls Societies to get each residential building competing for the top spot on a sports league table.

The idea here is that each Hall becomes its own society; this includes all the buildings on Ffriddoedd site, normal site, Garth and Rathbone, and each building is to complete against the others in intramural sports. Each block will then have one sports representative and one welfare representative and amongst these two shall be the head reps. These two reps will then communicate your ideas about sports and welfare to the appropriate VP’s meaning that any new ideas or suggestions can be carried straight to the top. With one rep on the sports committee and one rep on the welfare committee your ideas can be heard meaning you have more of a say in the way your society is run, and after the first trail year new sports can be added to the competition. Exciting isn’t it? So how do you get involved? Well usually to join any society in the university you need a societies card which is £2, however if you buy a Halls Societies card at the beginning of the year for only £5 you get your societies card free, meaning you can take part in halls competitions and join any society you fancy. By joining halls societies first you can save money as it will cost you £7 if you decide to join later in the year after already buying a societies card, bargain really! A team will be around Ffridd site on welcome weekend selling Halls Societies cards, you can also pick up your card from Serendipity or from the students union thereafter. Football competitions begin on Monday the 11th of October so pick up your card before then to compete. May the best hall win!

Gemma Ellis

Societies er Halls b m ur e m e R spots, yo st about ju lp e t h o n to are re s are the p s, re e u s re a is lf we so use , u o y t r o and supp and praise send it ns suggestio ! their way

IMPSOC

Fancy working for Bangor University’s Star publication?

Well you can get involved, writing articles, designing pages, proof reading, distributing and more!

Come along to our stall at Serendipity (Freshers’ fair) and ask about our avaliable sub-editor positions.

You can also get in touch via email or facebook:

editor@seren.bangor.ac.uk

Hello and welcome to Bangor from impsoc, we are Bangor’s improvised comedy society and are here to offer you something DIFFERENT! Fancy something to get your blood rushing and your sides splitting? Well improvised comedy might just be for you. But what on earth is it, i hear you ask? Well remember ‘who’s line is it anyway’? Its that! Ok so we’re not American, Im not 7ft tall and our host isn’t morbidly obese, we are however very funny. Don’t believe me? Have a nosy on our facebook ( we are the only impsoc on their) and have a look through our vids. Or you can see us in real life either at Serendipity or by popping down to the Belle View pub for a free taster. We are offering you a monthly dose of free comedy the first wednesday of the month in the BV. And if you can’t wait that long we are doing an extra- special show in Freshers’ week on Thursday the 23rd at 8pm and if you like what you see then come along to our sessions on a monday and wednesday, we meet in the main arts foyer and head up to LR5. Its only £3 to join for the whole year and everyone is welcome! Bargain!

You can always get in touch before hand at impsoc@undeb.bangor.ac.uk or find us on facebook (search:impsoc) see you soon!

9

SOCIETIES

Freshers’ Issue 2010 www.seren.bangor.ac.uk

H

ere at SVB, we’re all really excited about the new academic year and especially Fresher’s Week. We’ve got tonnes of exciting volunteering opportunities for you and one or two new projects in there to boot. If you’re interested in volunteering during your time at Bangor, sign up to our Mailing list to learn more www. bangorstudents.com/svb or come along to one of our 2 Information Evenings on the 28th or the 30th September, 6pm Lecture Room 5, Main Arts building.

For those of you returning to Bangor this autumn, you’ll be aware that we are no longer situated in the old Students’ Union building, but instead along with the rest of the SU, we’re based in Oswalds’ on Victoria Drive. If you’d like to visit us any time, it’s business as usual. Our office is located on the top floor and our children’s projects will take place in our new committee / project room situated on the ground floor. We hope you’ll all stop by and visit us.

WomSoc are a cosy group of self-defining women students and allies, armed with tea and knitting needles who love a good rave in between campaigning for gender equality. We like accurate, open-minded safer sex education, student activism, volunteering for local aid organisations, raising hell about issues that affect us, and cake. We also like BBQs, North Walian adventuring, and new members of all religious, sexual, and gender identities.

This year we’re focussing our campaign effort on raising awareness of the Hidden Marks report which lays out the high levels of harassment and violence directed at women students on UK campuses. We want to make sure Bangor is the safest, most welcoming university town for women students that it can possibly be! We are also learning to knit (see: Stich ‘n’ Bitch) and we’ll be reporting our exploits back to NUS Women’s Campaign conference in March 2011.

Maybe you can help represent our union there!

Splodge

Children’s Club for 5-7yr olds, Tuesday, 5-8pm

Sblat

Children’s Club for 8-11 yr olds, Sunday, 12.30-4.30,

Boomerang

Children’s Club for 8-11yr olds, Thursday’s, 5-8pm

Sbectrwm

Children’s Club for children affected by Autism and Aspergers, Every other Wednesday, 5-8pm

Red Cross Mobile Youth Bus

Mobile Youth Outreach Project in local areas, once weekly, 6-9pm

The Hergest Project

Recreational befriending at the local Mental Health unit, Monday or Wednesday, 6-9pm

Start off with a Tuesday Stitch ‘n’ Bitch session, or if you’re hungry come to our Tea & Cakeapalooza in the first week of term. We have several open positions on our committee if you’re more for the politics, and we’re looking for six amazing volunteers and a Project Leader to fill up our Women’s Aid pilot program through SVB. Also, sign up for Sister ACTivist days, run by NUS Women’s Campaign- activism inspiration, training, and networking all in one, all around the country!

Out and About

Trips out for local pensioners, alternate Saturdays, 1-4pm

For more information on any of our projects, please email svb@undeb.bangor.ac.uk

Reclaim the Night: late Oct/early Nov TBD, facebook National Demo: 10 Nov 2010, SisterACTivist Training Days: (GET DATES) Don’t Burn Your Bra- Recycle It!: March TBD, facebook

Other stuff Events

Stitch ‘n’ Bitch, Every 2nd & 4th Tuesday 11:30AM1:30PM, Senior Common Room Neuadd Garth Women’s Aid volunteer project

nawdd nos

gwasanaeth gwybodaeth a gwrando

nightline

listening & information service

H

ave you ever been awake at 5am, unable to sleep because you needed someone to talk to?

Or have you ever been caught with a sudden craving for pizza after a night out and no idea where to get some?

Have you ever decided at midnight that you need the number for the NHS that very instant? Wouldn’t it be incredibly nifty if there was someone you could call who could provide you with all of these things? Well guess what, there is.

Nightline is their name, and being helpful is their game! Nightline? You may say bewildered, but if you have a look on the back of your student ID card, you will see a number there, claiming to be theirs. If you call that number, all your dreams will come true! (Ok, not really, but they would listen to you talk about your dreams at 6 in the morning…) Nightline is an information and listening service that is run by university students for university students, and is open every night during term-time. It is run by volunteers, who work during nights (hence “Night”-line) from

8pm to 8am in order to offer a nonadvisory listening and information service, to fellow university students.

Nightline is a service that many universities throughout the UK have, and Bangor’s own has been up and running since 1974. For years now, Nightlines have been providing support and information to university students, helping people through a hard time, and giving its members the kind of satisfaction that only volunteering can give.

“I’ve had problems in the past and got help and it’s so nice to be able to give back and help others.”

Volunteer, Essex Nightline Nightline also has a stand at Serendipity (Fresher’s Fair) every year, where they recruit their volunteers. This year Serendipity will be in Maes Glas sports centre on Friddoedd Site. If you are interested in joining them, swing by their stand and leave your e-mail. They will soon get in contact with you and talk about arranging an interview. You will have to sign up online on the website www.bangorstudents.com/

Hidden Marks Safe, Sane, and Consensual: Sex for 2010

Meetings every 2nd Thursday 4:45 PM, Senior Common Room Neuadd Garth

01248 362121

http://www.undeb.bangor.ac.uk/nightline/ nightline during the second week of term for interviews. The interview will determine whether you go on to training or not. All volunteers must undergo some necessary training which ensures that they are capable of handling all calls and generally providing you with the best service possible. Training takes place over a certain weekend, where it is assured that volunteers learn to abide by Nightline’s core principles, found on the website, and treat all calls confidentially and anonymously.

Also, it is an independent service, meaning that its members are not there to impose their beliefs on you, but only to listen non-judgmentally to anything you may have to talk about.

Being a part of Nightline, you can get involved as deeply as you like.

From giving only the required four nights per semester, to joining the committee and seeing the service from the inside out. How exactly do the shifts work? Each shift lasts for 12 hours, from 8pm to 8am, and the volunteers are fully supported, not only during each shift, but generally,

for as long as they are part of the service.

As a possible caller you may ask, what has Nightline got to offer that any other helpline does not? Well on the one hand, it is the only out of hours information and listening service. Also, it is a service tailored specifically for university students, therefore also run by university students. Who better to talk to than a fellow student? Also Bangor nightline has all the information a student in Bangor may need, from exam timetables, to personal tutors and Chinese deliveries numbers. In short, Nightline is there for you to call if what you need most is a friendly voice which is willing to help you out.

I joined Nightline in the September of my first year, intrigued by their witty posters, and the prospect of being able to help in an original way.

Shortly after, I was elected part of the committee. A year later and I’m not looking back, and I’m sure Nightline will continue to be a big part of my life until the end of my degree! If you are looking to make a difference, this

could be your chance. On the other hand if you think you would rather be on the receiving end, don’t hesitate, give us a call, add our friendly bear, Dafydd Nightline, on facebook, or join our group and keep in touch, you never know when you might next need something at 4 am when everyone else is asleep or away!

If you would like to get in touch with Nightline, or simply find out more about who we are and what we do, you can visit our website on www.bangorstudents.com/nightline or email us on nightline@undeb. bangor.ac.uk. Additionally you can go along to one of the SVB sessions, taking place on Tuesday the 28th of September and Thursday the 30th, at 6pm in LR5 in Main Arts, where you can learn about volunteering in general, and also information about Nightline. Or of course, you could just give us a call! Remember, the number is on the back of your student ID card. So what are you waiting for?

Miss A. Nonymous

Freshers’ guide 2010!

11

Freshers’ Issue 2010 www.seren.bangor.ac.uk

Meet The Sabbs!

UNION

Sabbs (sabbatical officers) are the 6 people who run the Students’ Union.

They’re elected by you and spend their time improving life for students in Bangor!

Hi folks, welcome (back) to Bangor!

H

i I’m Danielle Buckley and I am the VP Education and Welfare here at Bangor Students’ Union. One of my main aims this year is to revamp the course rep system and make it more rewarding for students. I have been working hard all summer liaising with staff and throwing round ideas as to how we can get the system to be as successful as the peer guiding one. In addition to this, I have been working with the VP Sport and Healthy Living – Danielle Giles – on setting up Halls Societies and Inter Halls Competitions, which will be known as Intra Mural Sports. I am extremely keen this year to strengthen the platforms for interaction for all students from all different backgrounds and I believe that Halls Societies are one of the ways that I can achieve this. We will also be recruiting reps for Sport and Welfare in each hall so that students can be more involved in all aspects Union life and we have direct channels between students and sabbs so that we can be as proactive as possible when it comes to solving problems. Another key area I want to focus on this year is raising awareness of welfare issues to students and so I am also working alongside Danielle Giles on this year’s Healthy Living weeks as I think it is important to highlight the fact that healthy living is not just about the food you eat and the exercise you do, but also about sexual health, mental health, stress management, cancer awareness, personal safety and the wellbeing of an individual in general. If you have any problems or just want to come in for a chat then do not hesitate to contact me. I hope you all have a fab year in Bangor and I look forward to seeing you soon.

Danielle.Buckley@undeb.bangor.ac.uk

I write this to you with one hell of a year ahead of us.

Not only are we facing location problems (see front page!), nightclub problems (see front page!), but we also have quite a challenging future in the Higher Education sector. Everyone is screaming “cuts!” and unfortunately, universities are very much in the firing line. This year more than ever, we need to show the strength of the student voice, to show that we will not be ignored and that university education should be the realm of the many, not just the fortunate few. I for one will be bang in the middle of this battle and I’d love it if you’d join me.

Get in touch to be part of our representative systems, to really show the government (and in some cases, our own university) what we’re made of!

Remember your Students’ Union is SEPARATE from the University and we’re here to REPRESENT YOU! Look forward to hearing from you, Jo jo.caulfield@undeb.bangor.ac.uk

I’m Danielle the Vice President for Sport and Healthy Living, Here in Bangor we’re between Snowdonia National Park and the menai strait, this means we can get you up a mountain, in a lake and even on a boat. However, we also offer more sports than you can shake a stick (or a racket) at!

There are many opportunists to compete as a club, society or just as a group of mates. Look out for the big 5 during the year.

To join a sports club you need to purchase an Au card from Students’ union reception or at serendipity. This provides insurance cover for the year and allow you to affiliated AU clubs.

Danielle.Giles@undeb.bangor.ac.uk

Hi there, I’m Rich and I’m the Vice President for Societies and Sustainability. I do my best to make sure that all the great societies we have at Bangor are doing as well as they possibly can, and to make sure that the Union and University are as green as they can be. What I want to do this year is to make it as easy as possible for people to start a society, because they’re one of the best things about being at University. As well as this, I’m going to be getting on the University’s case about making it cheaper to print double sided and make sure Pontio is a sustainable place. What I really, really want is for someone to start a society to hug polar bears, but no one has so until then, I’ll be in my office drinking tea.

Rich.Gorman@undeb.bangor.ac.uk

Hi! I’m Sharyn and I’ll be your VP Welsh Affairs and Community for the year. My work trying to make Welsh lessons more accessible to students will continue this year, and of course I’ve been continuing with the Love Bangor, signing up more businesses and planning even more campaigns.

Of course we’ll be seeing the second ever Welsh Week, where once again we’ll be celebrating and promoting the Welsh language and culture, and I’m sure that the Inter-collegiate Eisteddfod, which this year is being held in Cardiff, will once again see Bangor bringing home the trophy.

Continuing with the continuation theme, last year’s Use Your Vote campaign will get a Welsh revival with this year’s Assembly elections, the expected Welsh Assembly powers referendum, and the possible AV referendum, so the Union will be on hand to make sure you know what the issues are, to help you register and help you find your way to the ballot boxes on the big day(s)!

This year I hope to convince the University to make it easier for students to change their language choice for official communication postregistration, and for a bilingual communication option to be added.

On top of this is lots of community work, so get in touch if you’d like to get involved with any of the above!

Sharyn.Williams@undeb.bangor.ac.uk

I’m Matt Ison, Vice-President Communications and Events. This means that I am responsible for organising Serendipity, the flagship Freshers’ Week fair as well as the Summer Ball. I also oversee the work of our three media outlets: Seren, Y Llef and Storm FM. This year, I really want to revitalise the Summer Ball and think the best way to do this is pay attention to the student voice. I’m also looking forward to the website undergoing a huge makeover and becoming a key port of call for students, not just in terms of clubs and societies but also for the Union to better represent!”

Matt.Ison@undeb.bangor.ac.uk

Remember the sabbatical officers are here to repres ent you so make sure you get in touch and let them know what’s happening! There’s loads to do and loads to ge involved with so come on do t wn to the Union and get stuck in!

12

e d i u g r You hers' s e r F o t k e e W

monday

sunday Octagon: Fresher’ 12pm-4pm ‘Feed a Cube 8pm onwards ‘Cash Give Away’ £1000 Bar Uno: 12pm-6pm Carvery Disco; From 7pm Storm fm es meet your flat mat

Octagon: 8pm onwards ‘Cho ose Cheese’ £1.50 drin ks Bar Uno: 8pm onwards Kara oke

MALT: (Main Arts Lecture Theatre) 7.30pm Film view ing ‘Frida’ Rascals: Open unti l 3am!

l 3am!

Rascals: Open unti rom Rasf d r a c p m k up a sta h night c ic a P e : S e r E e D h I t of PEER GU a drink in g in y u 20 wor th b £ y b in a d g n l a il cals eek you w e 25th. w h t ’ s y r a e d h r s u at of Fre hers on S c u o v s k drin

tuesday

Octagon: p the 8pm onwards ‘dro bs for bomb’ 3 Jager Bom £5 Bar Uno: Quiz 7pm onwards, Big Night.

MALT: ing ‘Milk’ 7.30pm Film view l 3am!

Rascals: Open unti

Dont forget to pick Union, it’s £11 and discount in many o in Bangor. Use you

FRIDAY

Y A D S R U H

T

ast’ on: o g T ‘ a t rinks Oc rds d a 2 w £ n o s 8pm , 3 Room ’s 2 DJ e : lcom o e n W U ‘ s Bar ward B par ty’ n o 8pm es UMC al to W : wing MALT Film vie 0 m 01 7.30p Hood’ 2 n ‘Robi 3am! l i t n pen u O : s al Rasc

octagon: 8pm onwards ‘BEATaMAXX’ £4 fo r your first 2 drinks befo re 11.30

SATURDAY

HENDRE HALL: 10pm Lost Propety

Bar Uno: 8pm onwards ‘Bea ch Party’ with Storm fm MALT: 7.30 Film viewing ‘The Boat That Ro cked’ Rascals: ‘Definitio n’ Drum and Bass night £3

Freshers Week

Join ‘bangor sex y times’ on fac ebook

WEDNESDAY Octagon: 8pm onwards ‘Brains; St. Trinian’s Party’ Free lollipop in school uniform £1.50 drinks

Bar Uno: 8pm onwards ‘Foo d Fest’

MALT: 7.30pm Film viewing ‘Moulin Rouge’

k up your Love Bangor card from the Students d is in partnership with NUS Extra. That means of our hight street stores as well as local stores ur Love Bangor card for discount in Bar Uno.

Octagon: Big 8pm onwards ‘The drinks Night Out’ 25% off before 11pm Bar Uno: nt 8pm onwards ‘Gia t’ games tournamen MALT: ing 7.30pm Film view ‘Forrest Gump’ n’ £2 Rascals: ‘Addictio n 8-9pm free entr y betwee

Complete the crossword on p17

Lock yourself ou

t

Join a club at Ha ve a ‘beer and bu rg- Take a t Serendipity rip to er’ as a hangove r cure the pie r Drink during Re-introduce Fall up ‘Bitch’ Hil the day l naps into yo Read Seren! pull a randomer Play ‘ring of fire’

day

Go to Lost Prope

rty

Get a bus to Hendre Hall Do your first independant sho p

Do the cuisine Sp end a day watc hing cutout on p14 box sets

ur

Pull an allnighter befriend a bouncer Attempt centurion attempt the mik es bite ‘greedy ba stard’

Bingo!

What’s On? Bye bye Big Brother

1

975 saw the emergence of the first all girl rock band. Recording two albums and touring America and Japan with sold out shows, The Runaways were rock stars. As with many such stories, this one did not last long as the lead singer Cheri Currie left soon after the tour in Japan. The sensational story of this band, one which many will have little knowledge of, is told in the eponymous new film The Runaways.

Starring Dakota Fanning and Kristen Stewart the film relies upon Currie’s own book for the history of the band. It’s a biopic which leads the audience from the formational roots to the breakup but the director has carried it out deftly. The lead actors portray the main stars of the group Currie (Fanning) and Joan Jett (Stewart), who originally approached a music agent with the idea to create an all woman band.

The film is powered by the strong and electric characters that have been revealed to us through Currie’s book. We’re shown the rather intense relationships which develop, especially between Currie and Jett, which are just one part of the insane life that the band is plunged into. One scene in particular depicts the kiss between the two main characters which is no doubt already all over YouTube.

Seren recommends this film because it is, for want of a better word, different. In the current film climate where blockbusters created entirely from CGI blare out of every media outlet a relatively small film such as this deserves a bit of extra publicity. It has fire in its heart and gives you a kick to the punk in your soul. Watch it.

Luke Dobson

I

f you’re looking for a nice, indepth look at urban legends and horror stories, then you should stop reading now. Stopped? Good.

This show is all about the superficial, and that’s not actually a bad thing.

The premise is straightforward: ghosts, ghouls and demons exist – so do people who hunt them and kill them. They’re named, somewhat imaginatively, Hunters.

Two brothers, Dean and Sam, are Hunters, and this box-set follows them from setting out to find their missing father to getting tangled in the forth-coming Apocalypse. It’s a show that is built on the chemistry between the characters - think Starsky & Hutch, only without the sexual tension – rather than the strength of its stories.

It’s well aware of how silly it is, and runs amok through urban legends with all the glee of a Labrador in a Frisbee factory. And if you’re looking for fan-service...well, let’s just say that Jared Padalecki and Jensen Ackles are perfectly adequate examples of manhood. And if nerdy, pretty-boys are more your type, then surprise fan-favourite, Castiel, is introduced in season 4 to up the bad-ass factor. The show is somewhat unfortunately lacking the female character department, but this is par for the course in American drama and thus doesn’t really provide more than a grumble of a complaint. Otherwise, it’s fairly obvious the cast and crew know how best to please their fans, and hey,

what’s not to like about a show that knows it’s camp?

The show hits its stride well into season 2, and once it does so it’s a fairly consistent plateau of quality. Episodes like “Yellow Fever”, “The Mystery Spot” and “Hollywood Babylon” are full to the brim with banter and good, clean, blood-spattered fun. And if you’ve ever wanted to see grown men cry their own weight in Manly-TearsOf-Sadness then you’ve come to the right place. While the first series doesn’t give the same high performance, persevere and you’ll find a good show with likeable leads and entertaining dialogue. It’s a show with heart, even if that heart is currently ripped out and being shown to you by a slavering beast from the Netherworld.

Amy Mulholland

The final series of Big Brother has just drawn to a close and though many of us will be glad to see the back of it I have to admit that the quality of this last series has made it hard to say goodbye. I have become deeply attached to the beautiful Bristonian Josie and even after her departure watching Chantelle and Preston ‘take two’ was a pleasure, im going to have to rate this highly!

Ugly Americans The Mighty Boosh meets Family Guy. This surreal animated comedy is set in the big apple and leaves no twisted stone unturned. With a creative approach to storytelling this peculiar and rather enthralling American comedy provides an fairly entertaining way of whittling away the hours.

Leverage This imaginative drama, currently airing it's 3rd series in the US and airing here in the UK is America’s answer to ‘Hustle’, albeit more gritty and subtle. The plot focuses upon an elite team of thieves and their one 'honest man' boss as they con the world to rights. Bad guys working for a good cause makes an interesting watch with a healthily diverse cast.

I would recommend not dismissing this series based solely on its rather cringe-worthy pilot as it gains pace rapidly and keeps the audiences’ attention. For those who enjoy crime dramas without involving a motley CSI-esque crew. Taking a fresh view on sticking it to the man.

LET IT BURN ‘Let it burn! Let it burn!’ Were the only words that Peggy Mitchell could manage as she watched her beloved Queen Victoria pub burn to the ground. Her drug-addict/alcoholic son, Phil, took a match to the building, threatening to take away the one thing that means more to Peggy than anything, just like she did to him. The fire interrupts Janine and Ryan’s wedding reception and forces Stacey to escape with her baby, Lily, from the first floor of the Queen Vic. It all results in Peggy saying an emotional goodbye to Albert Square, and she really couldn’t go out of the show after sixteen years with much more of a bang!

Christian Siriano

What’s in? sland River I £34.99

River Island £16.99

New Look £19.99

Y

et another contestant from ‘Project Runway’ shows a successful line at fashion week. Christian Siriano, the camp bubbly extrovert from season 4 has had A+ reviews from fashion critics and this is why.

The looks start very neutral with hints of colour injected into them then they gradually become more exciting with turquoise snakeskin, crocodile print and brushed metallics. There were the show-stopping gowns. Some were flowy, and others were like sea reefs created with tulle in cream and crimson.

Each outfit came with shoes from Christians’ new line. There were boots and strappy stilettos with heels that looked like cages made of chopsticks.

Maggie Grace and Katrina Bowden, scenester Leigh Lezark, Siriano’s boyfriend Brad Walsh (who also made the jewellery and chose the music for the show) and actor Alan Cumming were all front row at the show.

Since “Project Runway” Christian has proven himself season after season with

River Island £12.99

nd River Isla £44.99

cool, playful looks.

The fashion crowd has come to count on him for ruffles, crazy fabrics and fancy shoes. They weren’t disappointed.

I’m really happy for Christian, whilst on Project Runway you could see that he was passionate towards fashion.

According to press he wanted to create “multicultural, elegant evening wear”. I wonder what Tim Gunn thinks?

River Islan d £34.99

Get the Look!

Leopard print has always fared well with the celebs, just check out Rihanna rocking the look. Want in on the action? All of these pieces can be bought in stores in Bangor!

Kaden Wild

2010 VMA’s cause fashion stir The 2010 MTV Video Music Awards gathered our musical stars who graced the red carpet walk giving us a visual feast. Some stars took to designer gowns whilst others went for a more low-key simple look. Here are my favourite three!

1.

Katy Perry is wearing a Marchesa dress, Which I think makes her look like she has a huge tattoo!

She also got her manicurist to put images of herself and Russell Brand’s face on her fingernails!

Also how cool is her hair? I’m tempted to get some pink and blue in mine!

2.

Lady Gaga paid tribute to Alexander McQueen, by wearing a gown from his last collection. It looks dramatic and royal on her and the abundance of colours sure make her stand out!

3.

Ciara rocked up in this edgy Givenchy black dress made from feathers and lace. In my opinion she looks like a model in this! Looking forward to hearing some new music from her!

1.

2.

New Look £18

3.

x x x

y n en

J

. Ann Landers became age Sav n Da has er ang Str he T . tie aun ny very good paper has an ago nearly intolerable to from Sun he T es tak re ird De ar De a. eric nationally syndicated in Am hat’s Up, a no-holds-barred advice column W has en Ser So, . ice adv sex her h t wi barely palatable by a peer in the know. red we ans ons sti que gest nin bur ir the e where students can write in and hav

E

Q

s Where can I find answers about my course/event crop that ms proble Halls/ for students/the Union/ up after I’ve recycled the pile of paper that got thrown at me during Freshers’ Week?

A

Paper. It’s everywhere after you move in. Once you’ve gotten settled, and before you throw it all away, hopefully you’ll take a read of the booklets, handbooks, contracts, and flyers you’ve been given. If you miss any information, most is available online: Additionally if you’re living in Halls you should always feel free to hunt down your resident Warden. They’re trained to know just about every

Q

A

answer to the questions you’ll have; additionally they’re great if you need some advice, if you want to chat about being a little homesick, or where the best places are in Bangor for coffee, food, shopping. They’re there to make sure you have a great, safe experience in Halls and help you connect with the information you need.

’)

My friend is vomming on B*tch Hill after a night got out/I don’t remember what happened last night/I been drunk for ity Secur or n Warde told off by my haviour, what do I do now?

Alcohol is a pretty basic element of university life, even if you yourself don’t drink. Keeping an eye out for friends whilst on a night out for drink spiking and dangerous levels of overconsumption is really important. ALWAYS stick with at least one ‘buddy’ and if somebody seems uncoordinated, suddenly very intoxicated or confused, or is straight up being sick everywhere please stay with them and get some help. Alcohol poisoning is difficult to distinguish from being very drunk unless you have training and it’s very dangerous.

If you ever suspect you may have had your drink spiked, tell somebody. It doesn’t have to mean a big followup- but the more the University and the Union are aware of this issue the easier it is for it to be stopped. Your friends, your Warden, and your personal tutor all care about your welfare and will be happy to deal with the situation as you see fit. Sometimes worse things happen; unfortunately, drink spiking can be accompanied by physical or sexual assault. The Union, the University, and outside

Q A

Your pr o answerblems e (but not by a ‘dod! c

support networks all provide services ranging from medical testing to counselling and support for friends of assault victims. It’s a good idea to know about these even if you never have to use them! Google is a good start but again- ask your Warden or visit the Student Advice Centre for more info, contact details or a cup of tea.

Wardens and security are there for your welfare, primarily that can mean a lot of things. Often students feel they get just told off, and it does definitely happen. But the best thing to do is remember that everybody is living in pretty tight spaces, and even though you might get told where to go if you come guns blazing in at 4am, they’re always there for you and they understand what it’s like being a student- they ARE students! Security do hang things for all of us like keep crime on site low, keep our buildings and walkways safe, deliver our post, and protect us where we live. The best way to deal with living in managed accommodation is to try to build rapport with your support team when you’re sober.

I need a takeaway NOW!

The best takeaway in Upper Bangor is probably Bella Italia or Dragon Noodle. They do a variety of curries, kebabs, Chinese, and British food. Lower Bangor has the all time favourite Batty’s at the Railway end of the high street (near Fat Cat’s and Varsity) and Shahin Kebab and several chip shops at the residential end. Bella, Pizza House, and Domino’s all deliver across Bangor. Unfortunately, most places close before or around 2am.

Crossword ACROSS

2. Students often spend this on things that they shouldn’t 3. The heart of the university 4. A display of all the societies on offer by the university 7. Something that most students dread at the end of the year 8. Groups for students to join 9. Materials to enrich your studies 10. A place where students go at night to have fun

DOWN

1. There are over 50 of these in Bangor 2. Usually one hour sessions specific to your degree 5. A common fresher’s illness 6. The preferred drink during fresher’s week 8. You’ll go here often when you lock yourself out

Late Stop (across from Morrisons) carry a modest selection of ready meals and snack foods as well as emergency toilet roll and milk. Just a note on safety- it’s really easy to forget about cooking when you’ve been on a night out. Fires are definitely possible and it only takes about 30 seconds to fill an entire corridor with impenetrable smoke. Be safe and keep a few microwaveable pizzas or ready meals instead of pan or oven chips for those times you just can’t get in before 4!

Send any questions you have to editor@seren. bangor.ac.uk for some no ho lds barred advice from Bangor’s reside nt agony aunt!

Sudoku

18

MUSIC

Freshers’ Issue 2010 www.seren.bangor.ac.uk

Aaron Wiles brings you what’s hot and what’s not in music this month.

Willow Smith - Whip My Hair

The daughter of Will, she is nine, full of attitude and I love it. I’ve been whipping my hair back and forth since I first heard it.

Duck Sauce - Barbra Streisand

A danced up Boney M track with the constant repitition of BRABRA STREISAND, I love it.

Katy Perry - Firework

Expected to be the third single from Teenage Dream, the track is one of the best from the new album.

The Ting Tings - Hands

I’ve been waiting a long time for the return of the Ting Tings and this new single is classic them, brilliant.

McFly - Party Girl

Older McFly used to be so much cooler, now they’re ripping off JLS and Twilight, poor form.

Alesha DIxon Drummer Boy

I think you either love or hate this track and I’m not a lover of this, it’s far too noisy and too much is going on.

Robbie & Gary - Shame Convenient title.

The Wanted - Heart Vacancy

The Wanted, unwanted in my music collection, cheers.

T

he crossover from actress to rock goddess isn’t an easy path, in the past a number of actors have tried and failed; Hilary Duff and Samantha Fox for example. Taylor Momsen looks set to be the exception after already achieving success with her band, The Pretty Reckless. Regardless of the bad press towards her stroppy spoilt attitude, Taylor only recently turned 17 and is undeniably talented as both an actress in the ITV 2 hit show Gossip Girl and as a singer. ‘Light Me Up’ is the debut album and has already started causing controversy thanks to its cover image of a little girl with a lit lighter.

Getting into the music ‘Light Me Up’ is a collection of 10 tracks which show that The Pretty Reckless sure can rock! ‘Make Me Wanna Die’ and ‘Miss Nothing’ are the only songs from the album that have currently

lyrics and catchy chorus, the song really sets an exciting start to the album.

‘Since You’re Gone’ is the second track on the album with the lyrics suggesting that it is a big f-you to an ex of Taylor’s. It provides quirky guitar rhythms and some forceful singing from Taylor pointing out how great life is since a breakup.

This song is like a rock version of a Taylor Swift record; it’s a perfect break-up anthem.

‘Light Me Up’ is the title track from the album in which Taylor confronts the criticisms made about her and simply needing a pickme-up. This is followed by ‘Just Tonight’ an obvious choice for next single, it sounds a bit like an Avril Lavigne song but still impressive all the same! There is also ‘Factory Girl’ which would sound perfect in a Skins episode, it’s so upbeat and racy and is made for one of their hardcore rave It provides quirky guitar scenes. final track rhythms and some forceful singing on The the album is a melodic acoustic from Taylor called ‘You’, another of my favourites, been released, the first hitting this track shows off Taylor’s soft number 16 in the UK charts and and vulnerable side with violins and the latter currently receiving plenty guitar strums. The song is about of radio attention. wanting someone who doesn’t feel The first track on the album ‘My the same way back and lets the Medicine’ is one of my favourites. listener see a completely different It opens with a cigarette being lit side of the Gossip Girl star, a side reminiscent to the cover art, and which will hopefully be seen much a puff of smoke getting blown more in their future albums. out. Momsen clears her throats Overall, The Pretty Reckless’ and lets her unique grainy voice debut album is amazing; Taylor mix with soft guitar strums before Momsen has a beautiful yet picking it up at the chorus. It’s all unexpected voice. From watching very grungy with its drug related Gossip Girl religiously I would

have never imagined her to be so much of a rock chick. I would definitely recommend their album to anyone, my personal highlights include ‘Make Me Wanna Die’, ‘Miss Nothing’, ‘My Medicine’ and ‘You’.

It was released earlier this month so get down to HMV and grab a copy.

Kaden Wild

“

.”

Seren Recommends and Nobody’s Hole - Reunion Daughter s Weapons - You Semi Preciou Love You

YOUR

This Month:

Track

kadenwild

Lady Gaga The Saturdays

Rated & Reviewed 1,493

Times

942

Rihanna

921

Katy Perry

706

Robyn

449

Example

344

Timbaland

272

Cheryl Cole

251

Kelis

199

Beyoncé

198

Aaron’s comments:

Well I have to say I’m pretty impressed. Robyn, The Saturdays, Katy Perry, Rihanna and Beyoncé all feature highly in my music collection. Only Timbaland lets it down cos he ain’t cool.

Music Taste Rating: 9/10

F

or Folk’s Sake is a music website dedicated to out, having a bath or anything else you might need to the brightest folk talents around. It feels like a be lying down to do. friend’s comfy sofa, Other artists include: and somewhere on this Peggy Lee, Otis Redding You may wonder how you can and John Sebastian. sofa they find room for a bunch of interesting mix make a coffee playlist without Blur’s tapes. One of the most Coffee & TV, well apparently you See www.forfolkssake. recent compilations is #42 com for more information, – Coffee & Cake which, as can’t.” a link to this playlist and you may have predicted, is others. themed around coffee and cake.

It’s an interesting mix of new and old. Muddy Waters’ Iodine In My Coffee is as slow, soulful and bluesy as you would expect and comes with harmonica and all. The Wave Pictures’ Instant Coffee Baby is easily my favourite track. From the 2008 album of the same name released on Moshi Moshi Records, it’s catchy, happy and a little bit strange. It also contains the lyric “I can smoke one off the end of another, and I can say the right thing and piss off your mother”, what other reasons do you need to like this song? The go: Ramblin’ Jack Elliot track makes you feel like you could Mixtapes to give a be in the only saloon of a dustbowl town somewhere in the American deep south, but then, I suppose that is #35: Leave the the intention of most of his songs.

Brians Mixtape Ou t of It s You may wonder how you can make a coffee and al im An cake inspired playlist without including Blur’s Coffee & TV, well apparently you can’t. To me it stuck out 2: Moseley as the track which didn’t quite fit. This is one of few Brians Mixtape #3 criticisms I have of the playlist. Another being that On Down Roger McGuinn & Calexico’s cover of One More Cup Of Coffee from the I Am Here soundtrack is not the #17: The Laubest version of that song. Similarly, Gracie Fields did Brians Mixtape ny on Ca a much better job of If I Knew You Were Coming I’d l re Have Baked A Cake than Bing Crosby and Bob Hope do in this playlist, but it’s all a matter of individual 5: The Rain preferences and I may just be nitpicking. It’s a good, Brians Mixtapee#1 ind eclectic mix, clearly put together with care by someone W Th and who has a lot of musical knowledge.

The whole playlist is a good soundtrack for chilling

“

Georgia Mannion

Seren Recommends

19

MUSIC

Freshers’ Issue 2010 www.seren.bangor.ac.uk

I

n the last Seren of last year, seriously revamped for Pt. 2 and perfect. So who Body Talk Pt. 1 had just been given the single treatment. I better not mess released, since then Robyn went through a phase of having with Robyn, has wasted no time in getting this track on repeat for ages, it’s well the French, Pt. 2 out with Pt. 3 expected in like it’s the same song but it’s the Vatican, the the Autumn/Winter. We were totally different, it’s a lot more Russians, the pretty impressed with Pt. 1, apart enjoyable this time round and for FBI, the CIA, from the odd track it was a very me, you seem to get the message the prince of good album. So how does Pt.2 of the track a lot more. Do I think darkness, the compare? Very well actually. It it’s better than ‘Dancing On My whole industry kicks off with ‘In and now, My Eyes’, produced me.

It’s “In Pt. 1 Robyn tended to explore by the masters brilliant, behind ‘With Every the sadder emotions of heartbreak, potentially Heartbeat’, Kleerup my favourite Pt. 2 is no different.” and Robyn get the song of the party started. It’s year. Cannot very uptempo and poppy, it’s Own’? No, but it’s seriously close. get enough. a great track to get the album ‘We Dance To The Beat’ is The album going. probably the most divided song then reaches In Pt. 1, Robyn tended to on the album, I’ve seen a lot of it finale with explore the sadder emotions people saying that they either ‘Indestructible’, the of heartbreak but with the fast think it’s amazing or they don’t only acoustic song club beats, Pt. 2 is no different. like it at all. I have to say I like on the album, and if ‘Include Me Out’ and ‘Love Kills’ it, her lyrics are very observant we go with the logic, adopt the same strategy, the latter and clever and the repeating of this song will get the being a lot darker and harder. “we dance to the beat, we dance tune that it needs on Body And they are both very good, to the beat” means it gets stuck Talk Pt. 3. That I look forward the first song mixing elements in your head, it’s catchy. Then to because it’s very nice as it is. of confidence yet anxiety at the we find ‘Criminal Intent’, it’s one So which do I prefer? I same time as she accommodates of the best tracks of Pt. 2. One honestly don’t have a favourite. for everyone from beggars, to of my favourite things about On the whole I think Pt. 2 is more mothers and to “trannies”, but Robyn is just how clever she is, consistent but Pt. 1 has tracks on at the same time she herself sorry to repeat myself but the it that can’t be ignored. I would doesn’t “want to be included out”. lyrics are so well written and this say they are both as good as We then get to ‘Hang With Me’, track, featured with its sirens and each other, which is a good thing originally first heard on Pt. 1 as mismatched beats is brilliant. as both albums deserve a place in an acoustic track and was very And now we reach the true your music collection. Robyn for good, however it has been highlight of Body Talk Pt. me is one of the best pop artists 2. ‘U Should Know Better’, right now who can get you on the quickly found its way to dancefloor whilst singing along to the top of my favourite real emotion. I now await Body Robyn songs, it features Talk Pt. 3, bring it on.

Snoop Dogg and is just bursting with attitude and or ni Ju pp so Röyk power. The duo work so well together, it’s like they Róisín Murphy just bounce off each other Over powered with their fast rapping and the beat behind is just

Seren Recommends

Aaron Wiles

A

S

unshine helped to get Leeds festival off to a brilliant start whereas its sister festival Reading became somewhat of a mud bath.

There must have been a few prayers said to mother nature over this weekend to keep the showers away. Wristbands on, we entered the site to see thousands of tents with over 80,000 eager festival goers.

My first festival experience was slightly worrying after seeing a tent get crushed by a random group of four drunks, but I was told that this was to be expected.

Friday midday saw piles of fans enter the main arena.

After a decent night’s sleep, and a few baby wipes we were refreshed and ready for a day of music. A highlight of the day had to include Frank Turner,

a definite 5/5. He brought a huge crowd to the NME tent, performing some old classics including ‘I Knew Prufrock Before He Was Famous’ and ‘The Road,’ as well as a couple of new songs, teaching the crowd the words as he went along. Frank certainly knows how to get a crowd going however Crystal Castles had to be the most interesting act of the day. One of the most unpredictable live acts around at the moment, and it wasn’t hard to see why they have gained this title, Alice seemed extremely drunk with alcohol and cigarette in hand. She moved around the stage with so much energy, occasionally stage diving into the crowd.

The atmosphere was electric!

Saturday continued in the same fashion, with Blink 182

headlining. I think that many people would have been taken back to their teenage years watching the band as they performed their classics and joked around the stage, just like they had when they first became famous.

Paramore, who I was sure to be a highlight turned out to be somewhat disappointing, Hayley Williams’ voice was lost in the crowd and they seemed maybe a little out of their depth, especially after an amazing performance from Weezer who were going to be a hard act for any band to follow.

The overall highlight for me had to be the performance by Mumford and Sons, they played the NME tent and the sound carried so well. I didn’t realise the band had such a huge following!

They definitely had the best crowd of the whole weekend, even when introducing fans to new songs.

Overall, Leeds Festival was an awesome experience! Well worth the money, I’d definitely go again.

Hayley Neill

fter a resoundingly successful first year which saw Sonisphere collect Best New Festival at t h e 2009 UK Festival Awards, Sonisphere 2010 had a great deal to live up to.

Saturday’s headliners Rammstein, making their first ever UK festival appearance ensured that this year’s Sonisphere eclipsed the success of Sonisphere 2009. The German metallers have made a name for themselves through their energetic shows and pyrotechnical wizardry, and nowhere can there be a more strange and wonderful sight than seeing musicians with flame throwers attached to their faces blasting out bursts of searing hot fire, a singer wielding a bow and arrow loaded with fireworks and a keyboardist crowd-surfing in a boat. They were also kind enough to play some equally mindblowing music, with hits such as ‘Sonne’ and ‘Du Riecht So Gut’ intertwined with tracks from their latest record including ‘Haifisch’ and ‘Rammlied’.

Other highlights of Saturday included thrash giants Anthrax, Placebo and Britrock legends Skunk Anansie.

Sunday saw another wonderfully diverse line up with Iggy Pop taking a break from a busy schedule of filming Swiftcover car insurance adverts to perform with The Stooges. Eighties post-punk band The Cult, Slayer and Alice in Chains all proved that they still have what it takes to thrill crowds alongside newer bands including Skindred, and chart-toppers Pendulum. There is no denying that Sunday’s headliners Iron Maiden are still as brilliant live as they were during their eighties heyday, however their set-list was about as suited to a

festival as a jazz band at a funeral, with a show that replaced classics with an endless stream of tracks from their most recent records. Maiden die-hards were delighted, however for the greater number of regular festival goers, the festival ended with an anti-climax.

As in 2009, Sonisphere also boasted alternating stages. With no band on the main two stages overlapping, the endless festival agony of missing one band for another was for the most part avoided. 2010 also saw Sonisphere expand with a half-day on the Friday, headlined by golden oldie, Alice Cooper.

As with any new festival, there were a few niggling issues. Regular camping was situated far too far away from the arena, the disabled platform was poorly designed and located and the entertainment area was particularly barren when compared to other, more established festivals.

Sonisphere, however, is still young and already it is on the way to replacing Download as the premier alternative festival in the UK. 2010 prices were nearly £25 cheaper than Download and Reading & Leeds, and although it has become an internationally established festival overnight, thanks in part to the huge investment in the brand and the line up, Sonisphere retains a tight knit feel, with a slightly smaller, and certainly more laid back crowd than its main competitors; Sonisphere is certainly one to watch, and without doubt one to experience for yourself.

Nik Hughes

20

TRAVEL

Freshers’ Issue 2010 www.seren.bangor.ac.uk

Best travel apps for your fancy phone Before you go

Riskometer – Asks you where you questions about where you’re

going, gives you a risk level and advice for when you’re there.

World Customs - Local dos and don’ts for destinations around the world. Handy if you’re a first-timer.

The Weather Channel – In depth and customisable meteorology app, a must have for any self respecting, weather obsessed Brit.

Packing – If you don’t relish the precise folding, rolling and condensing of your suitcase to be as fun as others use this to create lists of the things you need and check them off as you go.

Trainline – Check your trains from wherever you are, even en route running slightly late to see when the next one is. Gives you information on changes and up to date schedule changes.

Travelocity - Check flight schedules, gate numbers, security wait times, nearby hotels and even book your flight through the app.

When you’re there

UrbanSpoon – Now here’s something cool, tell it what kind of

restaurant you want to go you’re looking for, give it a shake and it’ll come up with a suggestion of where to go.

Wi-Fi Finder - Tracks over 200,000 hotspots in 135 countries.

Not amazing at distinguishing between free and paid spots but useful nevertheless.

Room – Maybe slightly useless, but if you never remember your hotel room number, stick it in here and lose the minor dreading feeling as you approach what may or may not be your room.

Cheap Gas - shows you the cheapest place to get petrol wherever you are.

Where - Shows you what’s around you, from coffee shops to cinemas and show times.

Sit or squat – Don’t know where you are and need to find a loo?

Download this app and never panic again! It’ll find the nearest one and let you review it and ones that aren’t in its info base. Sharing is caring.

Taxi! – For finding cab companies in America. You can call straight from the app and It also offers user ratings, whether the company accepts credit cards and, according to the App Store’s description, a prescreened list based on hotel referrals.

Staying in touch

Twitter – For those who are yet to discover the joy of twitter,you can

tweet from anywhere and include a picture of yourself on the beach to the envy of your friends. It’s also a good way to let people know you’ve touched down safely without having to stop on your way somewhere.

Postcards – Take a photo, write a message, upload it and they make a physical copy and send it home to your mum the same day!

The app is free but sending postcards in the UK cost 99p but let’s face it, it’s worth it Skype – Call your mum for free (or cheap) when you find a wifi hotspot!

Couch Surfing

Cheaper ways of extending stays

S

o you’re looking for budget accommodation on your long awaited tour of the world.

Enormous hostel dorms, overnight train journeys and the odd snooze in uncomfortable airport lounges, yes they are the cheap options but they get cheaper still.

CouchSurfing.org is a website which connects people from all over the world to a network of friendly co-hospitality. Since 2004 they have been providing people from across 230 countries and territories with a safe and different place to spend the night.

They say “We envision a world where everyone can explore and create meaningful connections with the people and places we encounter. Building meaningful connections across cultures enables us to respond to diversity with curiosity, appreciation and respect. The appreciation of diversity spreads tolerance and creates a global community.”

Some members are hosts, some are travelers (or “surfers”) and some are both. The hosts put the surfer up for free which allows them to encounter diverse cultures without ever leaving their home. The surfer not only gets a free nights sleep and the chance to prolong

their trip by cutting costs, but also to immerse themselves in the local culture by participating in local life.

Is it safe? The website has ample tips like hosts setting guidelines for surfers who are staying in their home. They have complete control setting how often they want to host, for how many days, how many surfers they want at a time, whether surfers can use the kitchen etc.

There is a reference system in place also. Hosts

information and tips available before getting involved.

The CouchSurfing community continues to expand its horizons with members from over 69,000 different cities, speaking 302 unique languages. 99.7% of all their reported experiences are positive ones.

The inclusive and congenial nature of the website is reflected even more in the “How Not quite do can I contribute ing it right. .. to CouchSurfing’s progress?” section of the website.

Surely this is where they guilt you into paying “I got off the train and met a stranger...I got for premium membership or something? back on the train and said goodbye to a friend” No. Although they do mention the option of Samantha from the US said “We are hosts. It’s donation later, it is not expected and definitely a huge part of our lives now. I can’t believe not required. It’s free to join and use the all the amazing people we have met and the website and their first suggestion for how you outrageous experiences we have shared while can help is “Being an active and well-informed they have stayed in our home” member is the first way to contribute to the You can find more information at CouchSurfing community!”. www.couchsurfing.org Some success stories include Viktor from Germany who says “Borders between countries and minds disappear and more and more people find friends”. Kimmie from the UK says

“I can’t believe all the amazing people we have met and the outrageous experiences we have shared while they have stayed in our home” and surfers give accounts of their experiences with each other so that people can essentially pick and choose who they stay with. Members can also discuss their experiences with each other, host to host and surfer to surfer.

Another safety feature is the vouching system. It shows a strong bond between two members and is a carefully considered sign of trust amongst members. Attempted scams and all bad behaviour is also reported and taken into consideration by everyone looking to host and surf.

It’s imperative to read all the safety

Georgia Mannion

21

TRAVEL

Freshers’ Issue 2010 www.seren.bangor.ac.uk

Pass That Dutch E

veryone knows it’s legal to smoke cannabis in Amsterdam. Knowing the details of the laws that allow this however doesn’t seem to be so widespread. Allow me to shed some light…

The law in The Netherlands clearly distinguishes between “hard” and “soft” drugs. According to The A-Z Encyclopaedia of Alcohol and Drug Abuse (yes, that actually exists) “hard” drugs are defined as addictive, psychoactive drugs that are especially damaging. This would include cocaine, heroin, LSD, morphine, ecstasy etc. “Soft” drugs are believed to be minimally addictive with fewer dangers associated with their use. This includes cannabis and, until recently, magic mushrooms although hundreds of people protested the amendment to The Opium Act, which regulates drug use, which stated that the sale of mushrooms in smart shops was to be outlawed in November 2008.

The sale of cannabis in coffee shops is

still somewhat extralegal but not prosecuted because of a strict tolerance policy. A shop cannot stock more than 500g of cannabis at any one time or sell more than 5g to an individual who may carry up to 5g for personal use without worry of breaching any laws.

Shops that break the rules are firmly

the main Dutch tourist traps shouldn’t be concerned with being caught up in the dodgy dealings of anomalous deviants.

It would be easy to assume that the money generated from drug tourism is the government’s primary motivation. In fact the main objectives of Dutch drug policy are

“The Checkpoint coffee shop was found to be selling 400 times the legal amount of cannabis.” punished. In March of this year the owner of The Checkpoint coffee shop in Terneuzen, was prosecuted after a raid of the shop found more than 400 times the allowed amount of cannabis being stored there. The shop serviced up to 3,000 customers a day and a special car park was even built nearby to avoid congestion in the town which suggested a certain amount of involvement by the townspeople. A jail sentence and 10 million euro fine followed.

This is a rare occurrence and travellers to

prevention and rehabilitation, to combat the production and trafficking of drugs and to reduce harm to users and nuisance endured by the public.

The policy works on the basis that it is better to control a problem that has proved unsolvable rather than continue to enforce ineffective laws. This progressive attitude has paid off when comparing European drug use statistics.

In the Netherlands 9.7% of young adults consume “soft” drugs once a month compared

to Germany (9.9%), the UK (15.8%) and Spain (16.4%). Comparatively few of these (0.44%) turn into “problem drug users”, well below the average of 0.52% in the same compared countries.

The reported number of deaths linked to the use of drugs in the Netherlands is also lower than the EU average. The Dutch government is able to support and treat around 90% of those who seek help.

Although we often look at the seemingly liberal Dutch policy from a touristic point of view, we should remember that it is affecting the lives of real people and providing promising results. The idea that governs the whole Dutch policy is that hiding social negative phenomena makes them worse. Perhaps our own policy makers here at home could learn something from our progressive neighbours.

Jules Undersea Lodge

The most interesting places around the world to stay the night

W

hen looking for somewhere to stay, finding something a little bit different often pays off. A mere smattering of the diverse hotels around the world are listed here. You may be lucky enough to have visited some of them, but for those who haven’t, here is a small taste of what you could experience.

Guests visit Jules' Undersea Lodge in Key Largo, Florida, they discover that the name is no marketing gimmick. The Lodge started out as the La Chalupa underwater research laboratory in the 70s, and now guests have to dive 21 feet before taking their bed for the night. Each

room has a wide round portal window which looks out into the murky sea. The surrounding mangrove lagoon is a natural habitat for many reef fish. Tropical angelfish, parrotfish, barracuda and snappers peek in the windows, while anemones, sponges, oysters and featherduster worms seem to cover every inch of this underwater world. Guests can explore the marine environment with scuba gear provided by the Lodge.

The rooms of the Costa Rican Tree House Lodge beautiful and exotic hotel are built around a 100+ year-old sangrillo tree, which is still growing around the house. The Tree House has two rooms and it can hold up to 6 people with all the luxuries you’d expect in a 4* hotel. The Tree House has been entirely built of sustainable woods. All the hard woods used on the Tree House were obtained out of fallen trees. They did not cut any alive tree to build the Tree House. Fancy an eco holiday without having to dig up your own dinner? Here you go.

The external simplicity of dasparkhotel’s concrete drain pipe cabins surrounds an unexpectedly comfortable interior.

Full headroom, double bed, storage, light, power, woolly blanket and light cotton sleeping bag and all other “hotelery” devices re he Sp irit Sp Free are covered in the room and surrounding area.

Dasparkhotel get

sanitation, breakfast and other hotel facilities from an existing public infrastructure, so the hotel afford a "pay as you wish" system.

A night in dasparkhotel can cost as much as you can afford or want to pay!

For $300 a night you can sleep in a wooden Free Spirit Sphere in the canopy of a giant tree forest on Vancouver Island, Canada. The creator’s dream is apparently founding entire colonies where you’ll live in such spheres, hoisted in the air, asking “the forest is so enchanting, why would you chop down trees to live in it?” Fair point, we may just join you.

The Aurora-Express is a Bed and Breakfast in Fairbanks, Alaska made out of authentic Alaska Railroad cars renovated into historical periods. Nostalgic and cosy, the rooms overlook Tanana Valley & the Alaska Mountain Range.

Aurora-Express

http://www. unusualhotelsoftheworld. com/ is a good place to find more exotic

Georgia Mannion

dasparkhotel

Georgia Mannion

22

Freshers’ Issue 2010 www.seren.bangor.ac.uk

SPORT

Hiya Everyone!

I

Living, Here in Bangor we’re between ’m Danielle the Vice President for Sport and Healthy we can get you up a mountain, in a lake Snowdonia National Park and the menai strait, this means you can shake a stick (or a racket) at! than sports more offer also we , and even on a boat. However just as a group of mates. Look out for or society club, a as compete There are many opportunists to an Au card from purchase to need you the big 5 during the year. To join a sports club insurance cover for the year Students’ union reception or at serendipity. This provides and allow you to affiliated AU clubs.

Healthy Living Week:

BLMSUZ AU Clubs Taster Sessions 20/9/10 – 26/9/10 CLUB

T

his year the Athletic Union President and the VP Education and Welfare are teaming up to give the students of Bangor, not one, but two Healthy Living Weeks. The aim this year is to promote healthy living as a lifestyle and we will be doing everything we can to get every student involved.

The first week is in October and will be kicked off on the Monday 25th with a Healthy Living Fair at Main Arts, with stalls in the Foyer, and further stalls running right along the corridor just after the PJ Hall, all the way to the stairs in the Old Arts Building. The fair is being held between 11am -3pm and there will be plenty to do and see. There will also be people on hand to give information and advice about how to stay fit and healthy, as well as a raffle at the end of the day where one lucky winner will win a hamper stuffed with fruit,

salad and veg!

Not only will there be a health fair, throughout the taking place, week there will be various different walks and bike rides ay 27th. In addition to this, this year along with the traditional pool party starting at 9pm on Wednesd fon on Tuesday 26th with coaches being we have also organised a trip to the Fun Centre in Caernar information shortly. provided to and from the Students Union. Look out for more the food you eat and the exercise you about just not is living healthy that ered rememb It has to be and being aware of issues relating yourself after looking about It’s g. do, it’s also about your wellbein to this, it’s about been aware of addition In safety. l persona and to your sexual health, mental health and of course, maintaining aware drink being ment, how to look after yourself through stress manage a healthy heart. topic we are in the process of setting That’s not all though. Because healthy living is such a diverse will be tips about exercise, what there it On Living.

Healthy to d dedicate purely website our up pages on fruit and veg, plus information get to go can you where of, much too eating foods you should avoid www.bangorstudents.com. at soon it for out Look more! much and about drinking, smoking, cancer

HALLS SOCIETIES!!

T

place are Halls Societies. Each block his year we have totally rebranded the old JCR’s and in their Bryn Eithan, Rathbone and the old Site, Normal on blocks two the with along site, Ffridd the on Society.

Halls own their having all are JMJ – now called Y Garth to join their hall society – its only costs We would like to encourage as many students as possible enables you to take place in the halls Intra £5 and with that you get your halls society card which you to join as many societies as you Mural Sports events. You also get a FREE society card – allowing

want for free! ity to give residents of halls more A stall will be around on both Welcome Weekend and at Serendip sign up there and then! to able be also will you and are information about what halls societies – one of each for each Halls Society We are also looking to recruit Welfare Reps and Sports Reps ly students get more of a say of what so that we can liaise with students directly and so that ultimate If anyone is interested and wants more happens – in terms of welfare and in the athletic union. warden or contact Danielle Giles on: information about becoming a rep then either speak to your

danielle.giles@undeb.bangor.ac.uk

DAY +DATE

TIME

VENUE

Archery

Wednesday 22/9 Friday 24/9 Sunday 26/9

8 – 10pm 8 – 10pm 9 – 12pm

Normal Sp. Hall Normal Sp. Hall Normal Sp. Hall

Athletics

Friday 24/9

6 – 8pm

Normal Gym 2

American Football

Sunday 26/9

12 – 4pm

Maes Glas

Badminton

Friday 24/9 Saturday 25/9

11 – 1pm 10 – 12pm

Main Hall New Hall

Women Basketball

Saturday 25/9

2 – 4pm

Main Hall

Capoeira

Monday 20/9

8 – 10pm

Normal Gym 2

Cheerleading

Saturday 25/9

12 – 2pm

New Hall

Fencing

Saturday 25/9

1 – 4pm

Normal Gym 1

Men Football

Friday 24/9 Saturday 25/9

12 – 4pm 12 - 4 pm

Maes pitch 1 + 2 Maes pitch 1 + 2

Saturday 25/9 Sunday 26/9

3 – 5pm 11 – 1pm

Treborth Synthetic Pitch

Gymnastics

Monday 20/9 Wednesday 22/9 Thursday 23/9

7:30 – 9:30pm 7:30 – 9:30pm 7 – 9pm

Gymnastics Hall Gymnastics Hall Gymnastics Hall

Hockey Men

Friday 24/9

10 - 2pm

Synthetic Pitch

Hockey Women

Friday 24/9 Sunday 26/9

2 – 4pm 3 - 5pm

Synthetic Pitch Synthetic Pitch

Judo

Thursday 23/9

8 – 10pm

Normal Gym 2

Ki-Aikido

Wednesday 22/9 Friday 24/9 Sunday 26/9

8 – 10pm 8 – 10pm 12 – 2pm

Normal Gym 2 Normal Gym 2 Normal Gym 2

Mountain Walking

Saturday 25/9 Sunday 26/9

8.30 - 6pm 8.30 – 6pm

Pick up at the SU

Rugby Men

Thursday 23/9 Saturday 25/9

2 – 4pm 1 – 3pm

Treborth Treborth

Rugby Women

Friday 24/9 Saturday 25/9

12 - 2pm 11 - 1pm

Treborth Treborth

Rugby League

Friday 24/9 Saturday 25/9

2 – 4pm 3 – 5pm

Treborth Treborth

Squash

Monday 20/9 Wednesday 22/9 Friday 24/9

1:45 – 4pm 1:45 – 4pm 1:45 – 4pm

Squash courts Squash courts Squash courts

Table Tennis

Friday 24/9

9 – 11am

Main Hall

Tennis

Friday 24/9 Sunday 26/9

1 – 3pm 12 – 2pm

Tennis courts Tennis courts

Trampoline

Friday 24/9 Saturday 25/9

1 – 3pm 2 – 5pm

½ New Hall ½ New Hall

Volleyball

Saturday 25/9

12 – 2pm

Main Hall

Women Football

Gaelic

Local Sport in Brief Bangor City Off to a Flyer

B

angor City continued their fine run of form from last season, with five wins out of five. Beating the professional and big spending Neath (who had just signed Lee Trundle from Championship side Swansea) on the opening game on the opening day of the season. Followed up with impressive victories against Bala, Llanelli, Carmarthen and Airbus UK, there is a high degree of optimism from the fans at Farrar Road. Away the Port-Talbot this weekend, their next home fixture is against local rivals Aberystwyth on the 26th of September.

Wrexham Unconvincing Start

W

rexham have started the new football season in unconvincing style. Despite early goals and promising attacking play at times; apparent lacks of concentration in the latter stages of games have proven costly. Pressure on Dean Saunders is relentless, with the team being booed off after they fail to win. With Saunders’ Wales role now in doubt, more time could be spent on the Wrexham set up.

Having signed in excess of 60 players in his short time in charge, the team should finally be taking shape.

However, failure to challenge for a play-off space before Christmas may see fan pressure take its toll, and he could be leaving the Racecourse ground sooner than he had hoped.

Glory for Crusaders Despite Defeat

D

espite a heroic performance, the Crusaders lost their play-off game against Huddersfield 18-12. The rise of the club has been rapid, despite finishing bottom in their first season, to have finished in the play-offs in their second season is a huge achievement. Brian Noble has worked wonders at the club, and a few quality and one or two high key signings have helped raise the team’s profile. The signing of Gareth Thomas in particular (although a relatively short team move), has helped t h e team bond with the fans.

Support at Wrexham’s Racecourse ground has been far better than initially expected, with the north Walians providing strong and vocal support to a fledgling club.

Flynn Takes the Wales Hot-Seat

F

ormer Wrexham and Wales under-21 coach Brian Flynn has been appointed as Wales’ caretaker boss for the next two qualifying games. The former Welsh international won 66 caps and helped Wales to a quarter-final place in Euro 76. He is a well respected first team coach at club level, and had been attributed with developing the talents of Bale, Ramsey and Collison at Under-21 level. Chris Coleman, John Hartson, Kenny Jacket and even Ryan Giggs (who if we are honest probably wouldn’t bother turning up to friendlies anyway if appointed) had all been tipped as strong candidates. Reports suggest that the long term strategy at the FAW is to team Flynn and Giggs up as a one-two partnership; combining the technical ability of Flynn with Giggs’ ability to inspire the young Welsh team. However Giggs’ playing career may last for at least one more season, so perhaps the next world cup qualifiers are the real aim for the current batch of players.

n

23

SPORT

Freshers’ Issue 2010 www.seren.bangor.ac.uk

y h t l a He ng! injuries Livi

  

What can cause them and how to reduce the risk

A

t some point, all of us will suffer from injury. In most cases they are minor ailments but sometimes they are severe, so it’s helpful to understand what causes injury and how to avoid it in most cases.

The commonest cause of injury, certainly in contact sports, is trauma; which can be a twisted or sprained joint or a broken limb. Generally speaking, there isn’t much you can do about this, except to follow the rules and guidelines of the sport in order to minimise the risk. However other injuries occur overtime, with identifiable and treatable problems. Soldiering on so to speak, can exacerbate the problem and possibly increase the severity.

The risk factors that lead to injury are usually classified as being extrinsic (outside the body) or intrinsic (personal to your body).

Typical extrinsic factors include:

• Excessive load on the body. The tissues of the body are capable of withstanding considerable stress: more than three times your weight can go through the body even when jogging slowly. But tissues that aren’t accustomed to such forces won’t have adapted to withstand them and are likely to be injured when they’re applied. When deciding The useful acronym NICER is a good reminder:

N

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen, which reduce inflammation and swelling, and alleviate pain (remember to check the label for contraindications).

I

A

lthough running is granted, in an area such as Bangor quite a scenic and enjoyable experience; one of the more popular and accessible cardiovascular exercises is swimming. It burns a lot of calories, as well as being very good for your cardiovascular health; helping to build muscle strength and endurance. Unlike running which can have a negative effect on your lower body joints, the water supports your weight, making it ideal first time exercise. Swimming is therefore one of the safest and less injury prone exercises; unless of course you drown or get hit by a kayak which turn up out of the blue sometimes. There are four basic swimming stokes: the crawl, also known as freestyle; the backstroke; the breaststroke; and the butterfly. Of these, the butterfly and the breaststroke are harder to learn compared to the crawl and backstroke. Due to potential libel risks, the How–To bit will be omitted, so only a general overview of the swimming techniques will be provided. It’s always best to consult a specialised instructor.

The Crawl, or Freestyle

Amongst all the swimming strokes, the crawl is the most popular, and beginners find it the easiest to learn. The technique involved in this swimming stroke is pretty simple. You float on your belly in the water, and propel yourself by rotating your arms in a windmill motion, and kick your legs in a fluttering motion. The hardest part of this swimming technique is the coordination of the breathing while performing the strokes, since the face remains in the water almost all the time.

The Backstroke

The backstroke is akin to the crawl, except that you float on your back in the water. The arms are moved in a similar alternating windmill motion, and the legs kick in a similarly fluttering motion. The two basic techniques of a correct backstroke are: One, that the arms are moved with equal force, or else you will find yourself swimming off towards one side. Two, that the body should be rolled from one side to the other, so that the arms extend to their utmost reach to propel you by catching enough water.

The Breaststroke

Intricate timing is involved in the breaststroke. As a matter of fact, missing even a single stroke can disqualify you in a swimming competition. This swimming technique involves a pattern wherein the body bobs upwards and downwards as you propel yourself forward in the water. The breaststroke is a difficult swimming technique, and should not be chosen if you are just beginning to learn swimming. Basically, this swimming stroke involves pulling your arms through the water, as you bob up and breathe, and then kicking with your legs as you bob down and glide forward. The arm pulling and the leg kicking are done alternatively.

The Butterfly Stroke

Similar to the breaststroke, the butterfly is also a difficult swimming technique, and not advocated for beginning learners, since it involves a fair amount of strength as well as precise timing. While performing this stroke, the legs should be moved together akin to the movements of a dolphin’s tail, the arms should also be moved together, pushing the water downwards and then backwards, while the torso moves forward in an undulating manner.

Ice, or cold therapy, since this decreases pain and limits the extent of the swelling. Ice should never be placed directly against the skin, so use a few paper towels or tea towel.

The time for which a tissue should be cooled depends upon the site and severity of the injury.

C

Compression, usually in the form of a compression bandage. This mechanically limits the amount of swelling by restricting the amount of space in and around the injury.

E

Elevation. This also helps control swelling since fluid is drained more effectively from the injury.

R

Restricted activity. To allow the healing process to proceed, the injured area must be rested initially.

how often, how hard and for how long to exercise, you need to consider the impact on your muscles and joints build up gradually to avoid injury.

• Poor technique. A number of so-called ‘overuse injuries’ are related to sports or exercise technique. Indeed, some injuries are even popularly named after their sport (for instance, tennis elbow). Often it’s the repetition of an action with faulty technique that results in excessive load on tissues and subsequent injury.

• Poor or inappropriate equipment, especially footwear and, in some sports, headgear. If your activity involves impact (things such as running and jumping) then wearing proper footwear that supports your feet and cushions your body from shock is vital. Your need for specialist footwear – or other sports equipment – may be determined in part by intrinsic factors such as ‘over pronation’ (see below).

• Failure to warm up and warm down. Many of the body’s tissues (particularly muscle) respond better to loading when they’re warm. The warming-up process should include whole body exercise that increases blood flow to muscles and makes them more responsive. At the end of every training session, you should also warm down, bringing your body back down to normal, usually through low intensity activity, followed by flexibility exercises.

Intrinsic risk factors are mainly unique to the individual. The shape and structure of the joints can have a more pronounced effect upon the individual, especially if poor technique is utilised. In perhaps the most widespread form of exercise, running, feet that ‘pronate’ or have a weak arch often contribute to lower leg conditions, as do ‘bow legs’ and ‘knock knees’.

Some other risk factors are more common than others.

Being overweight in particular can have a more negative long term impact, as this increases the load on muscles, joint structures, tendons and ligaments. Similarly, limited flexibility and joint laxity also increases the chance of harm; as do muscle imbalances. These highlight the case for gently introducing yourself to fitness routines, and warming up properly for sport activities. Some injuries are unavoidable, but by minimising the risk, will ensure you will be able to compete for longer without spending too much time on the sidelines.

If you do get injured, there are several things you can do. Obviously the most severe cases require immediate medical attention, which will probably be dealt with by the on-site physio and then probably hospital treatment.

However the most common symptom is inflammatory, in other words swelling and bruising. Despite being the body’s natural response and healing process, excessive swelling can be damaging to the process. It is therefore important to treat swelling immediately.

The best person to treat any injury you suffer is the relevant expert, so always take the advice of the trained physiotherapist and where relevant your GP. The content provided is for information only and not to be used in place of official medical advice. Content reproduced from the BBC Health website.

Sat 18 Sat 18 Sun 19 Sun 19 Mon 20Mon 20

10% discount with your ‘Love Bangor’ Card!

Freshers’ Freshers’ Fortnight Fortnight

www.baru no.bango r.ac.uk www.baru no.bango r.ac.uk

K A R AKOAKRE A O K E Meet your Meet your Meet Your Meet Your Hallmates Hallmates Hallmates Hallmates & Wardens & Wardens CHEESYCHEESY DISCO DISCO Thurs 23 Wed 22Wed 22Thurs 23

Tues 21Tues 21

BIG BIG Quiz Quiz NightNight Fri 24 Fri 24

Food Food Fest Fest Welcome to Welcome Wales to Wales

Sat 25 Sat 25 Sun 26 Sun 26

GIANT GIANT Beach Beach

Chillout GamesGames Chillout Sunday Sunday ent ent PartyPartyTournamTournam Mon 27 Mon B 27 BTues 28Tues 28 Wed 29Wed 29

I Live I Sports Live Sports 2 dine 2 dine N N for for £9.99 £9.99 G G O O Thurs 30 Thurs N 30 NFri 1 OctFri 1 Oct Q Qi i u u g gF r i 1F r i 1 i i h h z z t t Disco Disco

Bar Uno, Ffriddoedd Bar Uno, Ffriddoedd Building, Building, Victoria Drive, Victoria Bangor, Drive, Bangor, Gwynedd Gwynedd LL57 2EN Tel: LL5701248 2EN Tel: 388888 01248 388888 baruno@bangor.ac.uk baruno@bangor.ac.uk