Solent
Splash Friday December 2, 2011
Southampton’s community newspaper
FLOCK STARS
Exclusive chat with The Pigeon Detectives: Pages 10-11
Student tells of 15-minute romp with MIC’s Jamie and how the TV love-rat called her..
‘MY SCOUSE’
EXCLUSIVE By APRIL GALVIN MADE in Chelsea love-rat Jamie Laing bedded a Solent University student after meeting her in nightclub PA, while his on-screen love interest prepared for a winter getaway. ‘Reality’ star and heir to the McVities fortune, Jamie Laing, 23, left Southampton nightclub, Wahoo, Saturday night to spend a steamy 15 minutes in Deanery student halls with Southampton Solent student, Joanna Dickinson, 20. Joanna commented:“There were girls all over him in the club, but I’m quite reserved so he seemed to notice me more.” She added: “Girls were getting quite angry so we decided to leave and go back to mine.” Joanna, originally from Liverpool told how “Jamie said he liked the Scouse accent, he kept calling me ‘my Scouse’ during the night.” Fellow student Alice Stuart, 19, commented: “Some of the girls in the VIP area were getting really annoyed that Jamie wasn’t paying them any attention. His focus was definitely entirely on Joanna that night.” However, Jamie’s sex session didn’t last long as Joanna added: “Jamie said he had to leave straight after to catch a flight from Heathrow to Finland. He said he was going to film the Christmas special of Made in Chelsea.” Jamie’s on-screen love interest, Louise Thompson, 21, later tweeted: “On the way to heathrow, I love holidays @ RosieFortescue @ JamieLaing_UK.” From which Jamie later replied: “@ oliverproudlock never prouders I’m in love with @LouiseAThompson.” However, Jamie’s onscreen confession of his infidelity with fellow cast member, Gabriella Ellis, 23, in the final episode of Made In Chelsea sparked Louise to call off their television romance. TOWIE star Mario thrills clubbers: Page 3
‘There were girls all over him, but I’m quite reserved so he seemed to notice me more’ CLINCH: Jamie and Joanna in the club
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Cash cuts will ‘threaten local livelihoods’ By KIRSTY FENSOME PLANNED government cuts are set to threaten the livelihood of local neighbourhoods and businesses according to the people of Newtown. The administration is looking to cut £15million off their budget this year, and then a further £20million in its next financial year thereafter. This is to fund a private contractor being paid £9 million a year over the next ten years to improve roads. However for the Newtown Residents Association, they say these cuts will have a hard impact upon local services. “We have to unite, defend and protect our communities,” says David Roath, the chairman. “The numbers game plays a pivotal role when dealing with politicians and professional partners to get heard.” A number of key projects are already being cut within the Newtown area, namely: Southampton Language School, Asian Elders DropIn and Youth Provision. Many of the residents feel that the council are not interested in the voice of the general public.
NEWS
FEATS
SPORT
SCHOOL’S PYJAMA PARTY RAISES £500 Teachers join in fun to help fill Children in Need coffers
By LIZZIE BAKER STAFF and children at Highfield Primary School came to school in their pyjamas for Children In Need and raised around £500. Everyone had to pay £1 to wear their Pyjamas and one class collected £45 by 1pm. We spoke to the teachers on their lunch break; who were joking and laughing about two members of staff who came to work in their Batman and Superwoman dressing gowns. The theme of wearing pyjamas went down a treat and brought lots of fun and energy to the staff room. Teacher Lizzie Fitzpatrick said: “The infant’s love it, every year we have a different fancy dress theme. This year one class kept telling us they wanted to go to sleep because they were wearing Pyjamas to school.” Parents also did their bit by bringing in cakes and biscuits for the staff and one parent even dropped off kids to the school wearing pyjamas. Highfield Primary School does a lot of fundraising for different charities all year round. Male staff members have also grown moustaches in aid of the charity Movember. Every November men grow moustaches in order to raise awareness of two types of male cancer, prostrate and testicular. Highfield Primary is a small Church of England school and the amount they have raised shows that smaller communities can work together to help out in raising money for Children in Need. If every school in the area raised £500, it would go a long way to helping disadvantaged children all over the UK.
‘The infants love it, every year we have a different theme’
Labour backed in NHS crusade By KAYLEIGH KENT PORTSWOOD residents support the Labour campaign which is calling on the government to drop its Health and Social Care Bill. The Government is planning the biggest re-organisation of the NHS since it began in 1948 - on which they will spend £2billion. It has been reported that this will break the NHS and create a ‘postcode lottery’, with increasing waiting lists. Portswood’s MP Alan Whitehead said: “Today in Southampton there are double the number of NHS patients waiting over 18 weeks for treatment compared to when David Cameron came to power. Yet his plans encourage local hospitals to treat more private patients while NHS patients are left waiting longer.” The ‘Drop the Bill’ campaign aims to show what Labour says is the full scale of opposition to the government’s plans. Amy, 34, of Portswood said: “The government are constantly letting us down.”
ENTS
LESSONS IN LAUGHTER: From left, Mike Dodson, Lizzie Fitzpatrick and Sarah Shave.
So how are these strikes E-learning trial at college Walk this way to aid charity affecting the residents?
By NATALIE DANIELS ON THE 12th December, a charity 5k run, walk or jog is due to be held around Southampton. The run is to raise funds for Christian Aid and in the theme of Christmas, as all the runners will be dressed in Santa outfits. The charity is hoping to raise money to help end poverty. Christian Aid is currently running events across the UK. To enter it will cost £12, which includes a free Santa suit, and a minimum of £50 sponsorship must be raised.
By JOSEPH O’ROURKE FOLLOWING a summer of strikes the area are bracing themselves for further disruptions. As bin men, ticket inspectors and care worker down tools to fight back against pay cuts, Splash asks; how the strikes are affecting the residents of Shirley. Starting in early May council workers have gone on strike to protest the recent pay cuts of between two and five percent to those earning over £17,000 a year. Local student Lauren Godchild said: “Although I agree with the reason for the strike I don’t think it is fair that we have to suffer, living
in a house with six people and the rubbish hardly being collected is not nice.” She later went on to comment; ‘how would they like it.’ In an effort to stop strike action council leaders have threaten union members with the possibility of being sacked but have yet to follow through, their reasoning for the pay cut and pay freeze for the next years is that it will save over 300 jobs. With no signs of coming to an agreement these strikes are set to continue through the winter with no doubt further disruptions to the local residents of Shirley and the surrounding Southampton area.
By SERENA BENJAMIN WOODLANDS Community College is allowing students to use a revision website for a limited time to see whether it is useful. The website called “GCSEPOD” which costs £7 per GCSE student enables pupils to download info for any GCSE subject to their ipod, phone or any other devices. “GCSEPOD” works well for many students because it suits different learning styles. They can go at their own pace by pausing, fast forwarding or rewinding. By having the product on the devices, it is environmentally friendly because no paper needs to be used. Teachers at the college
would also be able to use it for their lessons. Woodlands Community College head teacher, Joanna Anslow, said: “The trial run seems to be going well so far. It is an easy and simple way for students to revise because most of them have phones and ipods. So we will see how the children find it to see if we buy it.” Irfan H Latif, Deputy Head of Bedford School who has “GCSEPOD”, said: “GCSEpod is an innovative and revolutionary way for students to learn and revise.” If the college do buy the subscription, pupils will have access to 2,500 podcasts that cover 13 subjects.
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Super Mario turns up the heat at Chilli gig TOWIE may have left our screens, but fans eager for more got to meet one of its stars. APRIL GALVIN spoke to them... FOLLOWING the dramatic events from the final episode of TOWIE, Heartthrob Mario Falcone, 23, brought crowds of star-struck fans to Southampton’s Chilli White nightclub. Despite rumours of Mario forgiving former girlfriend Lucy Mecklenburg for cheating with ex-flame, Mark Wright, 24, on the last episode of TOWIE this season, hundreds of starry-eyed students flocked to Southampton’s hotspot, Chilli White, with hopes to get a piece of the man for themselves. A Solent University student said: “I couldn’t believe it when I heard Mario was coming to Southampton. He’s so gorgeous!” Chilli White, one of Southampton’s most popular student venues has a maximum capacity of 1,100 people. According to onlookers the club “appeared packed” as students
crammed into the heaving venue. for a glimpse of the star Peter Toland, of Cheeky Monkey UK commented: “Mario was received very well; he brought a different crowd to our Thursday at dirty secret. As a TOWIE heart throb there were a large number of ladies at the event that all wanted to meet the celeb in person. “In essence the night was a huge success, we aim to provide something different for our customers and provide them with an opportunity that they wouldn’t get with other venues.” However, with Mario’s appearance lasting only 2 hours, queues for a quick greet and photograph with the star left some fans disappointed. The Solent student added: “I was embarrassed to have to queue up for so long to meet Mario, I’m more famous than him!”
So what’s this Movember thing about? By JESSIE MULHERN EVERY November you’re likely to see a lot more men with facial hair around, but what is this all in aid of? ‘Movember’ is a moustache growing charity event in which men start off with a clean-shaven face and then let their facial hair grow until the end of November to raise money and awareness for men’s health issues. In Southampton student club nights took place to raise further awareness for Movember and a lot of students took part. Callum Gillham 22 from Portswood said: ‘’It’s an interesting way of raising awareness and people always ask more about it, rather than just having a poster on the wall that they will just glance at.’’ Shakedown at Junk, a weekly student night hosted ‘The Official Movember ‘Tash Party’. There was a competition for who has grown the best moustache and for those who can’t grow one there were stick-on moustaches available to buy. Suzi King, 22, another student from Portswood said: “It’s such a fun tattoo that makes everyone laugh and in this case it’ll raise awareness for a good cause too!’’
Probe on sex attack goes on
CROWD PLEASER: TOWIE star Mario and, left, Chilli Whites club
By KATIE O’REILLY A 20-YEAR-OLD MAN has been released on bail while police continue to investigate a sexual assault on a woman in the City centre. The 45-year-old woman was returning home from work between 1:20pm and 1:45pm when she felt uneasy and acknowledged that a young man was following her. The man then attempted to make conversation with the victim. On entering the park the same man violently gripped on to her and indecently assaulted her, she was able to escape him but he managed to grab her and assault her further. Officers are asking for witnesses to step forward and report anything they saw. Motorists are also being urged to contact the police.Anyone with information is to call Southampton Central Police on 101.
Festive fair promises to Solar panels to cut waste Action Men in city Carnage be biggest and best yet By TEHONA WAUGH CHRISTMAS is nearly here and the festive fun is full swing. Bitterne Park has a Christmas fayre on the 16th of December 2011 from 5.30 – 8pm. This year traders of the local shops in Bitterne are trying to get the community together, so whenever you go into a shop in the Bitterne area and buy something you will receive a bingo card which gets stamped. You will automatically be entered into the free draw to win a prize worth £250. Karen Evans from one of the local shops says, “Some of the local shops last year got involved in the Christmas fayre and this year we
want to make it bigger and better. Each shop is hosting their own promotions and special offers on the evening. There is going to be a Santa clause giving out presents to the children, lots of mulled wine, and choir singers, and a raffle.” “All of the money raised is going to be funded to a food charity based in the Triangle Food Bank is a charity that supply resources so that people do not go hungry in Central and eastern North Carolina., they try to fight hunger in over 34 countries so people do not go hungry. It’s going to be a fun night and I hope it’s a good turn out.”
By CHARLOTTE SMITH DESPITE the recent budget cuts, Southampton City Council plan to install solar panels on buildings across the city to reduce carbon emissions and save money. Following the announcement of a significant capital investment earlier this year, the council made plans to install the Photovoltaic solar panels on around 10 school sites and 10 council-owned housing sites. The Civic Centre will also have panels installed. The recent proposal by the Department of Energy and Climate Change means that the date could be brought forward when the subsidies – known as Feed in tariffs
rates – will be cut. However, the council stated that the programme was already at an advanced stage when the DECC made the announcement. The revised programme now includes works which will be delivered before the proposed December review date with the remaining installations to follow in March. This means should the government implement its proposal a proportion will still be delivered at the higher tariff. However, if the government everts back to its original April review rate, the council will have delivered the entire programme at the higher rate.
By NATALIE DANIELS DRESSED up in Barbie and action man costumes, students hit the town on for another controversial carnage night. The annual event has held over two carnage nights already including cave girl and boys as well as doctors and nurses. There is expected more of these events for the New Year. The organisers for the events believe it is a safe, friendly and fun night for students as they take place in a bar crawl around the town of Southampton. The ticket which cost £10 entitling you to a t-shirt includes local bars and clubs such as Buddha, Tokyo and The Square Balloon.
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Superstore bid for late drink licence blasted By KAYLEIGH KENT THE new Sainsbury’s in Portswood faces claims its opening hours may promote anti-social drinking. The new build, due to open in late February, has put in a bid for a licence to sell alcohol from 6am until midnight. Highfield Residents’ Association declared that a condition of its planning permission was that it did not open past 9pm, so that it could ensure smaller traders could continue to survive. Highfield Residents’ Association has said: “This could lead to an increase in anti-social drinking and associated behaviour.” Committee member, for planning and licensing, Keith Reed has put in an objection to the proposed opening times on behalf of the HRA. In a letter to Licensing Enforcement he said: “Portswood Broadway already acts as a meeting point for problem drinkers.”
Council learns from weather chaos of past few years and makes sure winter responses are ready for action
We’re ready to show our true
GRIT
Schools to get solar panels By MARNIE THEYER PHOTOVOLTAIC solar panels will be installed on 15 schools and 10 council-owned housing sites across Southampton to generate electricity, save money and reduce carbon emissions. With fuel prices continually rising Southampton’s City Council capital investment in renewable energy was announced earlier this year. The installation will be beneficial to schools, civic buildings and council housing generating free electricity, despite the estimated initial cost of £700,000. Satvir Kaur, Councillor of Shirley said: “Solar panels is a great way forward.” Councillor Jeremy Moulton, deputy leader of the council and cabinet member for Children’s Services, said: “I am pleased twe are able to press forward with our plans.”
Police warning over raiders By NICOLE JACKSON POLICE are trying to raise students’ awareness after a number of reported burglaries in Bevois Valley. A large percentage of the victims have been students living in private accommodation. Residents of Bevois experience a large number of burglaries due to such a large number of student residences, yet there are specific places hit more than others. Gordon Avenue, Alma Road, Cedar Road, and Livingston Road are a few of the main hotspots that have been targeted. Southampton police have created a twitter account to reach students on a more personal level, follow Unicopssoton to be kept up to date on their awareness events and tips. PC Stephen Blandford said:“Students need to ensure their houses are safe. I can’t stress how important simply closing a window is.”
‘Frozen roads and paths can bring city to a virtual standstill’
WORTH HIS SALT: Councillor Daniel Fitzhenry on the grit
By MELISSA WYLIE THE city is preparing to show its grit in the face of another harsh winter. Last year the city was paralysed by heavy snow and thousands were left unable to leave the house. Schools and businesses were closed with staff and students finding it impossible to make it in on the icy roads. And now, with another harsh winter expected, Southampton is preparing for more snow and freezing conditions. The WestQuay operations manager has said: “WestQuay is well placed to continue operating during winter weather, the design of the centre lends itself to not having large areas that require clearing of snow. “In the last couple of years we have invested in new snow clearing tools and gritting machines to ensure we can clear pathways safely and efficiently. “We have developed a robust operational procedure combined with a regularly refreshed training program, which ensures WestQuay will be open for business in almost any weather.” Some 600 tonnes of salt have been reserved for the city, and there is access to thousands of tonnes being held by the Balfour Beatty group if more is needed. Further grit bins have also been installed taking the total of these up to nearly 150, with grit lorries ready to roll as soon as they are needed. Two new weather stations will now mean that the weather can be monitored for this area particularly, and the technology will enable the city to act quickly in response to the forecast of snow and ice. More roads this year will be gritted to keep the traffic and bus routes moving. Councillor Daniel Fitzhenry, Cabinet Member for Environment and Transport, said: “Southampton has been hit with some incredible winter weather conditions over the last few years. “Frozen roads and footways can bring the city to a virtual standstill. “With all this in mind it is vital that we continue to have the resources and further improve our response to tackle the worst conditions to keep the city moving, keep people safe and help businesses to remain open.”
Student fury as Life Hub Matalan leads toy drive ‘fails to deliver’ on ads By ATINUKE PHILLIPS STUDENTS at Bevois Valley private accommodation, Life Hub were forced to consider legal actions against Property Vibe on Portswood Road after a series of mishaps. On Property Vibe’s website it was listed that student would get: A free bus pass, state of the art kitchen and bathroom, full length mirror, under bed storage, seating area, commons room, free internet, a pin board and much more. However, on student’s arrival to their studio flat they were appalled to find out that what was on the website was far from factual. 19-year-old
student Missy Mahmood said her first thoughts were: “How on earth are my stuff going to fit in here, I’m just going to have to try and make it work.” Not only was 75% of what was advertised missing but the pictures used to advertise the flat were inaccurate. Just when tenant’s thoughts things couldn’t get any worse they were proven wrong after their safety was put at risk for several days after they had to live in darkness due to the lighting not working. Student Keisha said: “I can’t live here I have to stay in a hotel, which was unnecessary extra expenditure.”
By RYAN BLAKE MATALAN in the Marlands shopping centre is holding toy donations for the children’s ward at Southampton general hospital. The idea is that customers buy a toy at the till and it gets put into a donation box, which gets taken to the hospital on the 8th December. So far the store has collected 10 cardboard boxes worth and many more are still being filled up. Employees at Matalan believe that the donations are a good cause and that they feel all children deserve something for Christmas; they also feel like they’re giving back to the community. With the Christmas spirit now in
full swing throughout Southampton it seems like the general public really are in the gift giving mood, Natalie Warn, who is the event planner in the store said:“This is the first time we have done something like this and the response from the public is outstanding.” Managers and staff will be attending the delivery of the presents at the general hospital; they will be dressing up as the usual Christmas characters as well as a few extra surprises. They expect to see a warm welcome from all children and parents, and they are looking forward to seeing the expressions on the children’s faces.
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HOSPITAL HELIPAD TO BE A LIFESAVER
Development paves way for General to become major trauma centre
Centenary of Titanic to be marked in style By EMILY QUANSTROM THE 100th Anniversary of the Titanic that sunk in the North Atlantic will be an incredibly important time of year for many people. Memorials are already dispersed all around the world in places such as Liverpool, Ireland and even in Washington DC and by April 2012 the Titanic Quarter will be completed in Belfast, where the Titanic was built. However in Southampton the passion for the commemoration is immense. One of the top events of the Titanic memorial is the Titanic heritage walk. This event consists of people interested to explore all of the memorials and elements associated with the Titanic. People will also flock to the orchestra concert. Talented individuals will be gathering to where the Titanic set sail for the performance.
Charity has a blast for 5th
KEY DEVELOPMENT: The new helipad at Southampton General By ALEX DYER A NEW helipad has opened at Southampton General Hospital. After eight weeks of building work, a test flight was completed by the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance and both the landing and take-off were successful. The helipad has been built on top of the main multi-storey car park and a ramp has been installed beside it to allow for a quick transfer into the main building of the emergency department. This is part of a proposal
for the hospital to become a major trauma centre. It will cut at least 30 minutes from the time it would usually take to airlift patients to Southampton General or the Princess Anne Hospital. The helicopter would land in a field in Lordshill, two miles away, before being transferred to hospital by road. The planning application put forward to the Planning and Rights of Way Panel stated: “This will provide an on-site facility which will improve patient care at the hospital
by minimising the current delays in getting patients to hospital in emergency situations.” Dr Andy Eynon, director of major trauma at University Hospitals of Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, said: “The helipad will save lives and improve outcomes for a wide range of patients across Hampshire – including the Isle of Wight – Wiltshire, Dorset and beyond and is one of the few helipads in the UK that can receive critically ill patients 24 hours a day.”
‘The helipad will save lives and improve outcomes’
Resnet under fire after How long has it bin now? Lucia Foster web crashes By CHANTAL BROWN RESIDENTS of Lucia Foster Welch are furious at the unreliable internet access they are paying for. Since the start of term, the internet has been down several times. The biggest worry is that the internet will go down whilst in the middle of submitting work via turnitin, as in he case of 20-year-old student Kirsty Newland. ”I had an essay deadline and couldn’t get on mycourse, and this was an assessed piece of work,” Thankfully the internet was back up and running within the hour. But it appears that students are
unimpressed with Resnet’s “abysmal customer service”, when Tee Warrican, 18 phoned them to explain she had no internet she was told that “they were extremely understaffed and they then proceeded to tell her to email them about the problem. “How can I email when I have no internet?” A student who asked not to be named said that in his frustration he ranted on facebook and got a warning letter saying that his language was unnacceptable, threatening to cut of his internet access permanently. When contacted Resnet said: “We have had some issues.”
By KYE GOFF WASTE has been piling up in Southampton since the end of May and residents are now asking how long is this going to go on for? Over-piled bins and littered streets are the result of long and ongoing strike action by Unions ‘Unite’ and ‘Unison’, it comes after the Southampton City Council announced there would be pay cuts within the public sector. Southampton City Council’s website states they recognise there is an ongoing problem and waste on average is being collected every two weeks and Recyclable waste every 4 weeks. An elderly resident of Bitterne
expressed her frustration over the matter and said she had her bins taken a few weeks back, but not since. You only have to walk around Southampton to notice that there is a problem and even a possible health risk. A Shop Assistant, also from Bitterne said: “If we’re not being provided a service, then why should we pay full council tax.” This must be the thought of many others as the council has responded to this statement on their website stating: “The council has received a number of queries relating to whether residents will be entitled to a council tax reduction or refund ... All residents are legally obliged to pay their council tax in full.”
By DAN HILL LOCAL children’s charity, Friends of PICU, have celebrated their 5th anniversary. The milestone was commemorated by a sold out charity firework display at Chilworth Manor in Southampton. The charity helps fund Paediatric Intensive Care Units. It was founded by nursing staff and parents of children who have been cared for on the PICU in Southampton. Initially the charity began simply by running a series of charitable stalls however soon expanded to hosting a variety of events. The charity raised over £5,000 in their 1st year and have grown dramatically since then with last year’s fundraising reaching over £130,000. The charity has laid out a series of goals such as purchasing a new £120,000 ambulance for Southampton Hospital every five years.
Disabled man injured by car By KATIE O’REILLY A 34-YEAR-OLD disabled man was hit by a car in his motorised wheelchair and left with a fractured leg. The man was travelling towards Ocean Village along Queen’s Terrace at 9:30pm when the incident occurred. The victim was almost knocked out of his wheelchair as the vehicle was leaving a car park near to Ocean Village. The driver of a metallic dark green ’52 reg Peugeot 406 and passenger checked on the man but soon left the scene without exchanging details or names. Police are searching for the men, both black and described as in their mid-thirties with short black hair and both slim build.
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Reg honoured for raising £10m over 55 years By CAROLINE CRASKE and DAN HILL VOLUNTEERS at Southampton General hospital were honoured for their years of service at an awards ceremony in the hospital chapel, which was attended by the mayor. Seventy-six people, representing over 1,000 volunteers,were presented with awards acknowledging the free time that was given up from three years to a staggering five decades. Trust Chairman, John Trewby who presented awards alongside the mayor, said: “This is the fourth time I’ve been to these ceremonies. “It is an enormous humbling and uplifting experience to be amongst so many volunteers who give up their time totally freely to our hospital.” The award for the longest service was given to Reg Lowman MBE for 55 years. He said: “It is important when you retire to have a purpose to wake up in the morning.” Mr Lowman has raised an estimated £10 million.
‘There are plenty of ways for the Government to get money’
Plea on theft of wheelchair By DAN HILL A GRANDMOTHER from Eastchurch Close in Southampton has had her wheelchair stolen from outside her daughter’s home in Shirley. Shirley Doyle, 63, was visiting her five grandchildren in Rowhams Road in Shirley when the theft occurred. Mrs Doyle said: “I couldn’t believe it when it happened. It’s disgusting. I would like to know how they would manage with one leg and no wheelchair. If it’s been taken for scrap it’s even more disgusting.” The Red Cross has lent Mrs Doyle a replacement wheelchair for a month but she cannot afford a full time replacement. Hampshire police are investigating and have not ruled out the possibility of metal theft. Councils have noted an increase in metal thefts due to the elevated price it has with scrap metal dealers.
RESOLVE: Protesters rally in city centre
Teen worship ‘is in decline’ By CHARLES WHITMORE THE numbers of older teens accounted for in religious sermons has been on the decline in the past few years, a church veteran claims. Many people would say that this is a direct effect of the increasing decline of traditional family values. Howard Palmer, 74, who has been a regular at The Holy Saviour Church in Bitterne for decades, agrees. He said: “Everything has changed. The majority of youngsters been brought up in a religious household. It’s quite rare to find a teenager who has discovered us on his or her own.” What has caused this rapid decline? Mr Palmer believes that the modern media is a factor. While he was growing up, news would sometimes “take weeks to arrive back home” whereas, today, technology means that news travels the world in seconds.
MESSAGE: Protester bears banner
UNITED By HARRIET WHINKUP and LAUREN GOODCHILD A NATIONWIDE strike of public sector workers forced schools in Harefield to close their doors to pupils for a day. Due to a large number of teachers going on strike many schools throughout Southampton had to close on Wednesday, 30 November. The schools that were fully closed included Harefield Primary School. However some schools, like Woodlands Community College in Harefield, stayed partially open because some members of staff chose not to strike. This meant that some of the lessons were able to go ahead for a number of year 10 and 11 pupils. The deputy head teacher of Woodlands Community College, Tim Webber, said: “We will remain partially open. The members of staff who have decided not to strike are able to teach and some lessons will go ahead. We have a duty to provide education for our students.” Teachers and other public sector workers from different unions took action against the government’s proposed changes to the pension
Schools close their doors as teachers join picket lines
scheme, which will greatly affect them in the future. The changes include public sector employees paying more into their pensions, working for longer and receiving less money during their retirement. The strike follows on from the industrial action that took place in June, which was also about the changes to pensions. Many of the teachers from Harefield, along with crowds of other strikers, attended the gathering in the centre of Southampton. They assembled at Hoglands Park and marched from there to the Guildhall, where there were speeches.
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AS workers turned out to protest against cuts to pensions and pay, there were heated scenes and the city ground to a halt. The Splash team reports By GEORGE WEST SOUTHAMPTON came to a standstill on Wednesday as more than 2,000 people took to the streets in protest at the Government’s public sector cuts. Police were forced to close roads as groups including Prospect and the UCU joined forces to march against the proposals, on a day of National strikes. Seventy-five of Southampton’s 81 schools were affected as teachers of the NUT and NASUWT union groups joined the campaigns. The 24-hour walkout by public sector workers was over plans announced by Chancellor of the Exchequer George Osborne to reform public sector pensions as
part of the government’s austerity measures. The sound of whistles and horns rang around the city, whilst groups voiced their opinions with chanting such as: “No ifs no buts, we don’t want your pension cuts.” NUT member Mary Grove branded the reforms unacceptable and the “nail in the coffin”. She said: “There are plenty of ways for the government to get money, yet they’ve decided to hit the public sector once again.” Protesters gathered at Hoglands Park at 10am and made their way through the main high street before ending at the Guildhall Square where Unison representatives addressed the crowd.
It was about sending a strong message By NICKY MEYER SOUTHAMPTON city centre came to a standstill when strikers took action on Wednesday, 30 November.The unions took action over public sector pension reforms. Between 12.15pm and 2.15pm the main roads that circle the city were closed and people were warned to avoid driving there throughout the day. The council said they were able to cooperate with the unions taking
part to ensure those who were not involved would be affected as little as possible. Numerous schools were closed. Bins were not collected. Libraries, archives and the Tudor house were also shut. The strikes aimed to send a strong message to the British government, and Southampton felt the burn. The government had not said anything in reply to the protests at the time of going to press.
WE STAND
We are acting to defend our rights
‘It was not possible to gauge the impact of the strike’
NUMBERS: Gathering in park
I think schools should have given more notice By NIKITA HALL LIMITED numbers of schools were open on Wednesday due to many teaching staff going on strike. Schools themselves made a decision whether it was safe to remain open with limited staff numbers. The schools informed parents and guardians. Teaching and support staff unions have balloted their members for a day’s strike to respond to the changes to the pension scheme. Cllr Ken Thornber, Hampshire
County Council’s Leader, said: “It is too early for us to tell the number of staff that were involved in action over national proposals for public sector pensions. “We made every effort to ensure that the impact on essential services is minimised as far as it could be. “It was not possible for schools to gauge the impact of the strike until the actual day itself. Therefore it was a good idea for parents to have contingency measures in place.” St Mary’s CE Primary School in
Bargate, is one of many schools in the city that closed. Aashinya Singh, who has two children at St Mary’s CE Primary School, said: “I have had to use annual leave from work to ensure that I am able to look after my children as the school is closing. “I think that schools should have given more notice and to not just leave us parents waiting, as many might not be able to get time off of work or find a minder.” Many roads were closed within the city during the protest.
By SOPHIE AIKEN PUBLIC sector workers from across the country were striking and Southampton was not overlooked, with thousands of protesters from the TUC taking to the streets. The crowds marched from the park with signs and banners illustrating the frustration of generations. Chants of “Two, four, six, eight, we won’t wait till 68” showed a united front against having to work a longer time. Throughout the crowd there was an array of people from all walks of life joining together for the same cause. Deborah Casey, a nurse from Leeds, said of the protest: “I’m here to defend my rights. These cuts could have a serious impact, not just on my future but my sons.” The consequences of the action were felt mostly by schools and parents who were forced to make other arrangements.
Rebate call on binmen strike By DAN HILL SHIRLEY residents have expressed anger over the continued effects of the local strikes in the waste management sector of the council. Bin collection has been sporadic since June. To counteract the issue many residents have been forced to drive their rubbish to local dumps. Many residents such as bartender Katrina Garner, 55, who believe this to be “unfair” as they have continued to pay council tax at the same rate whilst collection has simply not been up to the standard many expect considering the cost. This has led to many residents suggesting a rebate should come from the council. Many residents were initially in favour of strike action but have changed their viewpoint. Shirley Resident Neil Bartlett, 57, stated “I started off by supporting the bin men, but it’s gone on too long now.”
Arrest made over stabbing By SAM PROCTOR DETECTIVES in Southampton have arrested a 17 year old teenager from Greater London in connection with a stabbing incident which took place in Gordon Avenue, Portswood, Southampton. The case involved a 30-year-old man from Eastleigh who received a serious stab wound to the leg. Witness reports suggest the man was lying conscious in a pool of blood for over half an hour before paramedics treated him at the scene. He was then taken to Southampton General Hospital where he is currently recovering from surgery.
Put yourself in the frame By EMILY QUANSTROM ONE of Southampton’s most exciting events is on your doorstep and open for all to join in. People from all over the city have been logging online to send in their huge variety of films created by passionate, determined and talented students. This festival is giving so many people the opportunity to show off their work and celebrate the city’s devotion for moving image and is even providing competitions, master classes and workshops. Anyone of the general public is welcome to volunteer to take part.
Inking a city hallmark By EMILY QUANSTROM TATTOOS are now a very regular fashion and are slowing becoming more predictable with young adults. People travel to Southampton from far and wide to be tattooed in studios such as BJ’s Tattoo Studio and Asgard. Heavily-tattooed Liam Dillon, 20 from Bargate claims: “I’ve not met a tattooist in the city that isn’t safe, hygienic and imaginative. People with tattoos are too easily judged.”
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Residents still EXCLUSIVE raw a year on from killing By CHARLES WHITMORE AFTER an inquest found Maria Lakatos to have been unlawfully killed by her husband Sandor, people expressed their shock. A year after her death, Joe, of N.T. Building and Maintenance Ltd, on Harcourt Road in Bitterne - the very street Maria died on - spoke of how there were no signs of whatwas to happen and no-one could have predicted it. He said: “People keep themselves to themselves in a rural area like this. No one knows what happens in people’s private homes.” Andy and Bonita Hallett run a printing shop on Harcourt Road.Andy said:“She came in to get her passport copied. A week later, she was dead.” Bonita added: “If the police hadn’t shown up, nobody would’ve known anything was wrong.” Maria was 37 when Sandor, 38, stabbed her nine times.
Recession still biting Bitterne By CHARLES WHITMORE BITTERNE, like the rest of Britain, wasn’t able to escape the recession. With more shops boarding up, will it get worse before it gets better? Many businesses have fallen in the past years and left people looking for new work. If someone might benefit, it might be the local charity shop. Toby Richards, 40, is the manager of the local Salvation Army charity shop. He said: “People on a lower budget than several months ago have started to shop here.” Small, independent businesses, like 38-year-old John Gannaway’s, Gannaways Farm Shop and Fresh Flowers, have suffered considerably. He said: “People just aren’t buying extra anymore.” With independent businesses suffering and many failing to make ends meet, it doesn’t look like Bitterne is out of the recession yet.
Market’s an Xmas cracker By CHARLOTTE ANDREWS THE German Christmas market returns for its eighth successful year to bring Christmas festivities to Southampton locals and visitors. Situated just, outside West Quays above bar, The Market features a number of stalls selling a variety of festive goods and foods. The stalls provide traditional German snacks such as Schweinerbraten (pig roast) or Bratkartoffeln (fried potatoes) and roasted caramelised nuts and crepes, from the crepe stall. Christmas Markets are increasingly popular in towns throughout Europe during the winter months, Sarah Roberts 54 a local from Bargate says of the market, “It really gets me in the Christmas mood. It’s a great atmosphere.” John Lawrence 67 from Shirley however thinks it’s too commercialised.
WHEN Matt Le Tissier visited Southampton Solent University as a guest speaker, there was no way Splash was going to miss out on a chat. Here’s what he had to tell me...
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OW did a lad from the Channel Islands enter the footballing world? I was spotted by Southampton when I was playing for the Guernsey under 15s tour of Hampshire. I played two or three games and even played out of position in one of the games - Of course I’m a central midfielder and I got played out on the right wing and one of the scouts saw me, assumed I was a right winger and decided to invite me over for a trial. In the end you spent sixteen years at Saints, a long time and a lot of loyalty there. Would you consider yourself as the big fish in the small pond plying your trade at one of the so called smaller clubs? Yeah, definitely and that was probably one of the reasons I stayed - I loved the status, loved the place, the fans were great to me so I saw no reason to move on whilst we were playing in the top division.
The importance of loyalty as a player, being cited as a hero by World Cup-winner Xavi, the problems with the England team and, er, patching things up with Glenn Hoddle over a round of golf in Dubai. Our man WARREN LUCY could only have heard all of this from Saints and England legend...
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And, on the topic of loyalty what’s your view of it nowadays in football? There’s not a lot of it nowadays to be honest with you but that is to be expected. The kind of money thats floating around in the game now. I mean, I have to say that if given my time again and I was earning three or four thousand pounds a week at Southampton and was offered one hundred grand a week to go and play at Man City then I’m not sure how loyal I could have been with that kind of offer. I can’t blame the players for wanting to make the most of what they can while their doing it.
Of course Matt you were renowned for your penalty taking ability. With forty seven successful attempts out of forty eight efforts tell me just what was the secret? I think a lot of it came down to a positive mental attitude and a technique where I could side foot the ball pretty powerfully so I could keep the accuracy there into the corners and know that most of the time it was probably going to go in. Matt, whilst we are talking about penalty conversions why can’t England win a penalty shoot out?!
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ELL, we did win one against Spain in about 1996 - A long time ago! I don’t know. I think we have kind of got bogged down with them an the players seemed to get affected by the fact that the media go on about it quite a bit that we are crap and everyone thinks that we’re crap and we’re going to be crap. Until we change the media’s perception of it then it’s going to be very difficult to get out of that rut. Continuing with national football, Spanish World Cup winner Xavi mentioned that you were one of his
HEROICS: In action for the Saints, left, and England, above
inspirations growing up which must be pleasing to hear? Yeah, yeah he did. It was nice yeah I mean for somebody who has gone on to win the World Cup and The European Championships to say that about you is quite an accolade really. Yeah, chuffed to bits! Still on the national scene, it must be disappointing that, for a player of your quality to have only made
eight appearances for England. Surely you should have earned more? Yes and no. Obviously my ambition was to play for England as a boy and I realised that it was a massive thing for me. I think you will have to ask the England managers why I didn’t make more caps. I think a lot of it was because I was playing for an unfashionable club. It wasn’t one
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Stab victim in hospital after leg surgery LE MAN: Warren with Matt during his visit to Southampton Solent University
TISSIER of the bigger clubs and you kind of don’t get looked upon favourably as when your maybe playing for one of the big boys. After that, what are your feelings towards Glenn Hoddle now?
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RM... It was a long time ago. We actually did have a chat We were on the same golf trip in Dubai a few years ago and we sat down over breakfast, had a little chat and kind of resolved our differences so I’d like to say that my relationship with Glenn is fine now! Off the pitch, you have got a son - Mitchell - What are the chances of seeing another member of the Le Tissier clan grace the Premier League stage?! Erm... (Laughs) No chance whatsoever! He’s actually far more into his cricket than he is football to be honest and he plays a little bit of five-a-side but there is no chance yu will see him in the Premier League I can assure you!
When retiring, were you interested in maybe going into the coaching or managing side of things or was getting into media the real plan? I kind of just fell into the media really - Never had that many great plans. It just turned out that way. I didn’t have any ambitions to get into coaching but you never rule it out because you never know what hand life’s going to deal you. Who knows what the future brings? I will never say never.
‘The player I dreaded facing was Stuart Pearce’
As I’ve mentioned, you are in the media now and although it has its pros you must be dissapointed not to watch live games on a Saturday afternoon? It does curtail my chances of getting to St. Marys but I do get down to the midweek ones when I’m not working. I think last season was about six or seven games and this season it will probably turn out the same but its my job and I’ve still got a mortgage to pay so it has to be done!
Best player played with and best player played against...GO! Best player played with is definitely Gazza (Paul Gascoigne)... unbelievable player. I feel sad for him because I think that possibly playing thirty odd games one season and then getting a bad injury and not playing really at all the next hit him hard health wise - he just wanted to play all the time. It was different to me because I just went on a downward spiral gradually during the latter part of my career! Best player played against...
Matt, its those old classics now -
By JOSIE BREEN A MAN who was stabbed in the leg in a Southampton street has now undergone surgery on his leg and is recovering at Southampton General Hospital. The 30-year-old victim, from Eastleigh, was attacked because of what officers believe to be the result of a dispute between two men. He obtained a serious stab wound to his upper-right thigh. Police have now confirmed that they have arrested a 17-year-old youth in connection with the stabbing – which happened on Gordon Avenue, Portswood, at around 6pm. 200 yards of the residential street was closed off for a number of hours but investigators have not yet confirmed whether they have found the weapon. The street is just off the main high street, near Waitrose, and is occupied mainly by students. The teenager, from Greater London, is being questioned by detectives as the 30-year-old victim remains in hospital, but stable. The attacker was seen to make off on a dark-coloured mountain bike and was described by police as, “Asian, in his mid-20s, and with short dark hair”. Police have asked anyone with information to call central CID on 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Joiners hosts student gigs
We played Juventus once and they had a fella called Roberto Baggio he was alright! The one player I really dreaded playing against was Stuart Pearce - If there was a chance of taking the ball and the man then Stuart would never turn the opportunity down! When you were a youngster who was the one player you wanted to emulate? Liam Brady - I was a Tottenham fan back then but with me being from Guernsey and not London there was never really any real hatred towards Arsenal so admiring Liam was okay! Finally Matt, Saints have certainly had a topsy-turvey last couple of years but now it looks like they are really on the rise. Yeah, it’s been a pretty decent start to the season. I think it has exceeded everyone’s expectations at the start of the season so if we can keep it going then we will keep our fingers crossed that next season we’ll be back in the big time.
By AMY ADLARD THE Music performance course at Solent held a gig in the small venue, Joiners for one of their assignments. The course gave students a lot of opportunities and Southampton has a good reputation for it’s musicians. “The music scene is pretty big around here, Island records and Metropolis studios also seen to have their eyes on the area” said Ash Martin (20) who is currently doing his first year in Music performance. His band ‘Skinny Jeans’ played with the other students on the course. “We picked the name Skinny Jeans because we all wear skinny jeans,” explains Ash. Even though it’s an assignment they are thinking of taking it futher.
Student fury at inspection By AMY ADLARD STUDENTS living at Mercury Point aren’t happy about having an inspection before they leave for the Christmas holidays. Bedroom and flat inspections are happening over a, b and c block between 12-16th of December. This is to make sure that students have been living in a clean and tidy way and not caused any damage. Student Sam Newberry said: “I can’t see why it matters what my room looks like, I’m the one living there.” However some students have not been too worried of the situation as they have keept their rooms cleaned.
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Boo’s art a hit at city gallery By AMY ADLARD SOUTHAMPTON City Art Gallery has held another exhibtion since 6 October -2 Januray 2012 of the unique retro artists, sculpture and photographer, Boo Ritson. She is best known for her unique style, merging her paintings and sculptures together. Her work consist on the heads and shoulders of people and physically painting her subjects with household emulsion paint. Transforming actual people into new characters of art, which is then captured on camera while the paint is still wet on her subjects. The exhibition asked Boo Ritson to select work from a significant collection of pieces. She picked some interesting and unexpected choices such as Donut (2007), Hooker Two (2008), The Air Hostess (2007), The Cheerleader (2009) etc which are all digital prints. “Her artistis style was interesting. I like her initiative of using wet paint on people and her style which incorperates traditional painting, models and photography” said James Green (20, Southampton).
Join in the fun at the Joiners By EMILY QUANSTROM JOINERS live is getting incredibly popular with alternative shows being played on a regular bases. A large minority of people make it down where drinks are sold at the bar all night and people mainly aged between 18 and 25 socialise. Greg Childs, a 20 year old student from Solent University said “I have personally performed at Joiners Live in a band called Offender. I had a rad time and I’m sure the crowd did too” The Joiners Arms has been in Southampton for over 40 years, and bands such as Coldplay and Oasis have performed. Jake Costen, an 18 year old who is a frequent visitor claims “It’s inspirational that such big bands have started their careers at that venue.”
Ozzy and co to play Download By EMILY QUANSTROM METAL legends Black Sabbath are to headline the main stage at Download 2012 as the festival celebrates its 10th anniversary. Students have been celebrating the reunion of the original members of Black Sabbath and even though the track ‘Paranoid’ is over 30 years old, students are still singing along and moshing to it. It is currently in discussion that there will be a private student night arranged by them to go out into town dressed as Ozzy Osbourne, doing what he does best – which is getting drunk and having a good time. Harry Mills, an 18 year old from Bargate says “Black Sabbath and Download festival go perfectly together. They are both the greatest elements of British metal. And it’s an amazing idea all going out as Ozzy as it brings all metalheads together.”
LEAD singer Matt Bowman and guitarist Oliver Main from The Pigeon Detectives, are nearing the end of the tour to plug new album Up, Guards and Get ‘Em. They took time out to tell SAMANTHA CLARKE how the tour is going, about new material and how they play with Ouija boards. Oh, and that name...
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OW are you enjoying your tour so far? Matt: We’re in the final stages of the tour so everyone’s a bit tired, but it’s been great so far. We’ve had some amazing shows. Manchester stood out for me, London, Sheffield and still got Leeds to come, which is our hometown. Brighton was good. It was a soldout gig and a Saturday crowd so they’d all been drinking all day. It was fun, but a bit messy. Have you played in Southampton before? Do you like playing here? Oliver: We’ve played in Southampton many times. Matt: (jokes) No, it’s awful and the crowds are terrible. That’s a joke – Southampton’s always a good gig. If you could play anywhere in the world, where would it be? Matt: I like cold places like New York in the wintertime. What made you decide to record your new album in America? How did you find it in America? Did you feel like you fitted in? Oliver: It’s just something we’ve never done. We did our first album in Leeds, our second one on a farm in Wales. Matt: When we toured America, it
Put time into your band name – you could end up getting stuck with it, like us.. was amazing because we got to see the really big cities; we did Boston, Texas, Chicago, New York, LA … When we were in New York, we had two months recording the album. It was probably my favourite experience because we kind of became New Yorkers, if you know what I mean. Oliver: I remember at one point, I knew we felt like New Yorkers, because we were staying in Hell’s Kitchen which is kind of near Times Sqaure, and we had to get the subway everyday to get to the studio in Brooklyn. But Times Sqaure was always full of tourists and we started to get annoyed because everyone got in our way.
How have audiences reacted to your new material? Matt: All new material takes time to bed in… People have their favourites from previous albums but this is actually the second tour of this album. The new stuff seems to be going a lot better than the first time we toured. I think that’s a good thing, people have gone out, bought the album and liked it. It’s a relief to see people’s faces when they react to the new stuff rather than just standing there waiting for old stuff like, ‘Found Out’ or ‘This is an Emergency’. Are you planning on doing any festivals next year?
Matt: I think we are. It’s a shame Glastonbury isn’t on. We didn’t get to do it last year so I feel like we could of played it next year. But no bands are telling anybody what festivals they’re playing next year; everyone’s still negotiating fees and trying to get as much money as possible. Oliver: We’ve had a few offers for some, we definitely will be playing some. Do you have any advice for bands trying to make a name for themselves? Matt: Put a lot of time and consideration into your actual band name because if you do make it, you could end up getting stuck with it like
Friendly Fires back with soulful sound By KIRSTY SUMMERFORD and HANNAH GREEN FRIENDLY Fires are back with their second album Pala, embracing a new soulful sound. Frontman Ed Macfarlane produced their recently released single Hurting, which was mainly recorded in New York. The first time I listened to the song, I wasn’t too impressed with it. I thought the sound was very different to what I have heard from the band before. However, I think it’s one of them tracks that grow on you. I’ve listened to it many times now and I love it, it’s something you can bop your head along to. I
know it will be something that loyal fans of Friendly Fires will enjoy. The uplifting beat, along with the repetition of the chorus, is sure to stick in your head. The band, which has just started their biggest UK headline tour to date, has made headlines after postponing many of the shows, including one in Southampton. This is down to Ed Macfarlane contracting a viral throat infection. Friendly Fires continue to get bigger and better and they won’t disappoint once they get back to their UK tour. Their single Hurting and album Pala are out now.
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FLOCK STARS: The Pigeon Detectives and, below, new album Up and At ’Em Guards
HAUNTING: Lights’s album cover
Second album suggests very bright future
us. But, I think playing live is the most important thing. Oliver: You get better with practice. Matt: Hone in on your skills, because if you entertain people live, that’s when people go out and check you online. If you’re a good, live band, you’re going to start getting invited to tour with more established artists and that’s when you get your name out.. I think practice, practice, practice and keep writing songs. You’ve never written your best song.
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OULD you change your band name if you could? Matt: I would quite like to be called just ‘The Pigeons’. But now we’re called ‘The Pigeon Detectives’, I love the name. I’ve seen it on the Leeds Festival bill and on a Tokyo poster – it comes normal to us. Oliver: I think everyone’s band’s name is stupid really, like ‘The Beatles’ is a stupid band name. Put some time into your band name or you could end up getting stuck with it, like us. If you could do a collaboration with any artist, alive or dead, who would it be? Matt: I could say something a little less obvious from someone like ‘The Beatles’ or John Lennon. I think I would go for collaboration with Kanye West, something just a bit different. Oliver: It would probably make
us sound better. Matt: He could run me through an auto tuner. Job done. What’s the craziest thing that has happened at a gig? Matt: We get the odd flash of bare chest, male and female. They all seem to get involved. Oliver: We used to get underwear thrown at us quite a lot, like Tom Jones… but that soon stopped. Matt: I’ve been punched in the face by a fan, hit in the head by a can of red stripe. It’s what you expect when you’re entertaining people that have paid to come and watch you. Do you have any rituals before you go on stage? Oliver: We sacrifice a pig… No, we like… Matt: (laughs) No, keep it at that answer. That’s the best answer we’ve ever had for that question. Oliver: … sacrifice a pig.
‘I think I would like to do a collaboration with Kanye, something that was less obvious’
What was your first job before becoming a successful band? Matt: I worked on a golf course cutting grass believe it or not! If you could have a super power what would it be? Matt: It would be cool to go out clubbing and have the power of invisibility. You know? So that when someone comes up to you and they’re completely hammered and spill their drink down you, you could be invisible.
What do you both do in your spare time? Oliver: Ouija boards and stuff. Basically, satanic things. Matt: Me and Ryan have started to play golf – I know, it’s not very rock and roll. Oliver: Our spare time is still consumed by the band. When we’re not on stage touring, we’re in the studio, writing songs – and the same as what everyone else does, like playing FIFA.
Has there ever been an awkward moment when you’ve been approached by a fan that you didn’t want to be approached by? Matt: Burger King last night. Me and Dave were eating chips, that’s just awkward when you have salty hands and mayo all over your face and they stroll over, wanting a picture. Oliver: It’s especially worse for him as he’s more recognisable. If you’re having a meal with your family, it’s just a bit inappropriate. Matt: Overall though, you appreciate people asking for your pictures and that, ‘cus they’re only doing that ‘cus they’re into the band, so we have a lot of time for fans.
What is the first CD you ever bought? Oliver: The first CD I ever bought was Sgt. Peppers Lonely Hearts Club Band. Matt: That annoys me SO much! The first one I ever bought, with my own money, was Crazy Chef – The Chef from South Park. Chocolate Salty Balls.
Do you ever get fed up of each other, being together all of the time? Band: no, we’ve known each other since we were six years old and we’ll still be knocking around when we’re 60. Believe it or not, four of us have bought houses all on the same street.
By ALEX DYER CANADIAN singer LIGHTS has just released Siberia, her second studio album. The electronic, synth-pop tracks that were seen on her 2009 début album, The Listening, are gone. In their place are 14 songs obviously inspired by dubstep and ambient music. It may come as a shock for seasoned LIGHTS fans, but you only need to hear the discordant melodies of And Counting and the heavy dubstep beat on Flux and Flow to know that this is one epic album. The first single released from the album, Toes, is very similar to her previous album and involves the electronic keytar that has become a standard with both her and the fans. Her soft vocals are a welcome reminder of the talent that she has, adding a strong melody on top of the crazy mess of electronically produced backings that all somehow fit perfectly together. Day One closes the hour long masterpiece with nine minutes of sheer ambient madness that would not be out of place in a David Lynch film. No vocals or tunes, just clashing synths. The track brings the whole CD to a close in a haunting yet amazing way, leaving you wondering what you just listened to, but glad that you did. nnnnn
Action louder than words... By EMMA DATSON SINCE its release on the 11th November, the new 300-inspired 3D film, Immortals, has received its fair share of mixed reviews. The plot of Immortals is based on the ancient story of Theseus’s battle against evil King Hyperion. Blood, violence, and sex; this film has it all. With plenty of toned, tanned bodies and intricately designed costumes, the appearance of the film will keep audiences captivated. The special effects are astounding. The 3D adds great depth to the film, without using the clichéd 3D gags. Mickey Rourke plays the role of Hyperion very well, his emotionless expressions fit the part perfectly. Lead Henry Cavill is perfectly cast as the hero. The only aspect this feature lacks is a truly captivating dialogue. At times, it leaves the audience unmoved and uniterested. Ending in a climax of violence and suspense, viewers will either feel satisfied by the intense bombardment or will feel a little disappointed by the lack of depth in the characters and dialogue.
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Opinion split on benefits of the Olympics By CHARLOTTE ANDREWS WITH the Olympics approaching I asked residents of Bevois whether they thought hosting the Olympics would be beneficial for the UK. Jess Dunhall 43 nurse, believes the Olympics will be good for the UK ‘I’m looking forward to it, I believe hosting something this big will hopefully give the UK good publicity’ Tom Braden 28 has a difference of opinion, ‘I think it’s too overrated all this money we are spending, billions, and not one person I know managed to get tickets’ ‘I think it gives each country something to look forward to... excitement, its patriotism and pride at its best.’ Believes Matt Lawrence 54, engineer from St Mary’s. ‘I support the Olympics and that it brings the world together’ said Laura Rushbrook 37 but she believes all the money going in to it could be better spent.
Dancer makes scene at show By AMY ADLARD SOUTHAMPTON City Art Gallery has been holding an exhibition, which is called ‘Making a Scene.’ One of the exhibition focuses on a piece called Dancing in Peckham (1994). It shows the viewer a portrait of the artists, Gullian Wearing dancing in a shopping centre in south London. She rehearsed the dance routine secretly before re-acting the scene to an audience of passers-by of the shopping centre. It shows people looking in astonishment, confusion or doing the British thing of barely noticing. She made the video after witnessing and feeling embarrassed for a woman dancing similarly with no care in the world. The exhibition is an idea of public and private personas. Dancing in Peckham is placed with a number of other work from the Art Gallery.
Centre in call for new blood By CHARLOTTE ANDREWS NORTHAM Community centre in Bevois is in desperate appeal for new committee members who are current residents in the Northam area. The Northam 521 Project has teamed up with City Reach to help improve the area. The council is pushing to make the Northam estate in St Mary’s road better for its residents in putting forward new projects and including its residents in changes to the area. This includes letting the residents pick out new signs for the area which are to be paid for from extra money the council had. The Northam community centre is urging for anyone in the Northam area who is interested in joining the committee to come forward were they will be welcomed greatly.
IT’S ALMOST
PLAYTIME
Regeneration of St James’s Park nears end
Uni ploughs £6.5m into blood cancer research By JOSIE BREEN FOLLOWING on from a project on treatments for leukaemia, the University of Southampton are now investing £6.5 million into investigating blood cancer. This comes after they were awarded a £115,000 grant by Leukaemia and Lymphoma Research and the Scientific Director; David Grant said that they were “very excited to be funding this work”. The project will be led by Professor Graham Packham and their main aim is to research the biology behind a specific type of leukaemia called chronic lymphomatic leukaemia.
This particular type is the most common form diagnosed in adults, in the UK and is diagnosed in around 3,300 each year. They hope to develop new drugs to treat the patients however at the moment, the disease is incurable and develops over many years. Professor Packham is researching a new type of drug which could prevent the cancer from progressing in patients. He said: “We are delighted to have received support from Leukaemia & Lymphoma Research, which is essential for us to continue this work.”
CHANGES: The park before restoration work. Below left, the new tennis court and gazebo By MARNIE THEYER ST JAMES’ Park is almost at completion after its renovation began in July last year. The removal of high swings is well underway, preparing for the installation of more facilities for toddlers, after feedback from park users about safety concerns and the lack of apparatus for young children. The park’s finished improvements include a new games area, playground and tennis courts. The café has been refurbished with an indoor and outdoor seating area and community room. The park now has scenic walkways and a Botanical walk with a focal point gazebo looking out over the Central Pitch. Outside the Young Play Area, work is being carried out with the installation of seating areas underneath the gazebo. Repairs are also being made to some initial damage to the Tennis Courts, which might have to be close while some of the work proceeds. However Southampton City Council is trying to keep disruption to a minimum. Karen Wardley, secretary of Friends of St. James’ Park said: “Most of the work at St James’ Park has been completed now, although there are still a few things which are being finished off.” Earlier this year Lord Mayor Councillor Terry Matthews officially reopened St James’ Park to the public.
New ‘Mozart’ premiere By JOSIE BREEN A COMPOSER from the University of Southampton has become one of the very few to complete the Mozart Requiem. Michael Finnissy – who is also a pianist and professor at the university – completed the piece using his own interpretations of the parts which were left incomplete after the 18th century composer’s death in 1791. The finished piece will premiere at St Michael’s Church in Southampton by a speciallyassembled choir and orchestra and conducted by Michael Finnisy himself. Professor Finnissy said: “It was
a great challenge to complete such a well-known, much discussed work. “But I have tried to build on the foundations of the existing movements, to create a composition which complements the original.” He described how he “imagined Mozart in the present day, working to complete the Requiem” as well as drawing on composers and historical events since the composer’s death to try and imagine how Mozart may have done so. He commented that he believed his work had “grown from Mozart’s original material”.
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Sure Start centres face axe
By JOSIE BREEN THE University of Southampton has teamed up with the Nestle Research Centre in the aid of investigating ways to improve maternal and child health during pregnancy. The programme will bring together scientists from the private and public sector to improve human health. The leading medical scientists of the university and also the Medical Research Council have collaborated to be part of what is called the EpiGen Consortium. The team will also include leading scientists from the National University of Singapore. The main aim of the programme, which will take place in Switzerland at Nestle’s Research Centre and Nestle Nutrition, is to produce maternal and infant health recommendations. They hope their research will lead to understanding maternal nutrition in the early stages of development.
PLEASE HELP: Sure Start user Holly Davies
2 bailed over child’s death
OUTCRY AS BUDGET CUTS THREATEN 15 SITES By CATHERINE COLLINS BUDGET restrictions are threatening to close fifteen Sure Start Children’s Centres in Southampton. Although it has not yet been decided how the centres will be affected, the Conservative party’s pledge this week to fight to keep them open leaves little doubt they could be at risk. Asa Thorpe, Labour Councillor for Millbrook ward explained: “Conservatives want to save the local Sure Start scheme, what a good idea that everyone can support. “Couple
of issues though, they are the party in control and so the only ones who can close them.” Sure Start was launched in 1998 to provide the ‘best possible start in life’ for every child. They provide advice, support and play sessions for babies and children from conception to starting school. The original aim was to reduce child poverty and social exclusion by providing a better start in life for deprived children and their families. Corena Davies, mother of Holly, now 7, said: “I used Sure Start for five years with my youngest child, from
the midwives and health visitors to speech therapy. “It would be a great shame if they closed as they do so much work for families.” With councils desperately trying to make cuts to their budget to balance their books, Sure Start schemes have been left unprotected. Tina McIntyre, Manager of Sure Start in Millbrook said: “Unfortunately, we are unable to comment at present.” Mr Thorpe added: “When David Cameron came to Hampshire last, he
‘Losing it’d be a shame. They do so much work for families’ made three pledges on education: maintain the Building Schools for the Future Fund, keep the Educational Maintenance Allowance and save all Sure Start schemes. “They only have one pledge left.” The Building Schools for the Future Fund was scrapped in July 2010 and the Educational Maintenance Allowance was closed to new applicants in January 2011.
Study highlights failings in cancer care
STUDY: Elizabeth Reed
Nestle joining uni for study on pregnancy
By JOSIE BREEN A NEW study by researchers at the University of Southampton has found that a shocking number of cancer patients feel they that are not receiving the amount of care and attention they need. The study was conducted on breast cancer patients and highlighted cause for concern in a number of areas surrounding the treatment for the disease, including the level of care received by the patient’s very own doctors as alarmingly, 50% of patients were not happy with the care they were receiving. Findings in the study also found that 62% of women would rather see their hospital consultant rather than their doctor. What’s even more alarming is that
34% of sufferers have been found to be living in pain unnecessarily. Charley Storrard, 19 and a student from Portswood said: “I think it’s terrible that women with cancer are not happy. If someone is living with cancer then they should be getting the very best care.” Among the causes of discomfort, 26% of sufferers experience nausea and 27% reported shortness of breath. Both of these can be dealt with, with correct treatment. Allex Bryan, 27 and a mother from London, said: “A friend of mine had cancer and if I found out she had not been happy with her doctor, I would have complained.” It is clear that these findings do not sit well with the general public. Many want to know what is being done to
make sure the happiness and welfare of patients improve. Karen Walsh, 45 from Bitterne, said: “There is obviously something wrong with the system if this many people are suffering or unhappy. I think doctors do work hard but when people have Cancer are on a different scale.” The principal investigator of the research, Elizabeth Reed said: “No women should live with controllable pain or without the information and advice they need. This study shows women with secondary breast cancer have a range of complex, needs that are not being met. Professor Jessica Corner is the Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences and led the study which was funded by the Breast Cancer Campaign.
By CAROLINE CRASKE TWO men have been arrested in connection with the death of child. Blake Fowler, who was seven, was taken to Southampton General Hospital with head injuries. He died the next day. Brothers Peter Meek, 23 and Phillip Meek, 21, of Shirley have been arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm, although the death is not being treated as murder. Peter Meek, engaged to Blake’s mother, was looking after her three children with Phillip. The cause of the fatal injuries is, as yet, unknown. Police said “Officers are continuing to investigate how the boy received the injury, and as part of that investigation a 23-year-old man and a 21-year-old man were arrested on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm. They have since been released on bail until March 6 while investigations continue.”
Fine for selling booze to teens By CHARLOTTE ANDREWS A SHOPKEEPER in Bevois has been fined for selling alcohol to underage youth. Harvinder Singh admitted to Southampton Magitsrates that he served a 17-year-old alcohol. The court heard he had made the sale at CK’s Food and Wines in St Mary’s Road. Singh, 25 of Totton, was fined £100 and ordered to pay a £15 victim surcharge and £85 in costs. Last April the Royal Oak was shut time for a period of time due to serving underage minors alcoholic beverages. In July of last year ‘Pound Xtra’ were caught selling alcohol to two fifteen year olds which led to a three month ban and the shops license suspended. Residents of Southampton are worried that the sale of alcohol to youth just further encourages binge drinking and youths staying out later.
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Crowd go wild and the acts go Gaga at Joiners By AMY ADLARD MANY students from Music Performance from Southampton Solent University had 8 weeks to create a 30 minute set which had to contain original material and cover versions of songs. The students played in the small venue Joiners Tickets were £2 in advance and £3.00 on doors, which opened at 7-8pm. 6 bands played during the evening as it was all part of their assignmnet to but the bands playing thought it was probably the ‘most fun assignment’ they’ve done. “My favourite was the last band, they did ‘Clint Eastwood- The Goirllaz’ which managed to fit in the fresh prince of Bel-Air theme tune into the same song. Genius!” says Ash Martin (20), one of the band members I managed to interview. There was many different genres played from hip-hop and RnB to Metal to dance, where some people covered Lady Gaga. “I left with a real buzz, it was awesome. “I couldn’t have asked it to go any better, I look forward to the next one I do.”
Bakery noise causes upsets By JACOB BENNETT RESIDENTS of Wilton gardens in Shirley have become annoyed by the nuisance, as described by the residents themselves that the bakery -Just Rolls - is causing. The bakery has been said to have ‘outgrown itself’ and that it is now becoming a pain to live near for the residents close to it. The stock delivery has become a problem for local residents living near the bakery due to the excessive noise that the lorries are causing. It has been described by Councillor Satvir Kaur to be a “massive nuisance”: “The residents hate it, they are being disturbed by this and it’s annoying them as this is their home as well.” One resident who lives close to the bakery described it to be a nuisance due to it being loud and disruptive and what could only be described as ‘unexpected’.
Charity shop plea for staff By SOPHIE GHATREH PORTSWOOD’S High Street is known for having a high proportion of charity shops in relation to others. The PDSA charity shop is currently appealing for extra volunteers to help run the store. As well as PDSA who raise funds in order to provide free veterinary treatments to 2.2 million sick and injured pets per year, there is also Scope, The Salvation Army and The British Heart Foundation all within 7 doors of each other. People interested to volunteer can contact the PDSA National Volunteering Centre on 0800 854194
PLEA: The Rockstone
Time please By KIRSTY FENSOME LOCALS are encouraging the city council to reopen a Bevois Valley pub and allow it to keep serving after 11pm. So far the total spent on buying and renovating the former castle has been £600,000. However since the battle with the council began to extend opening hours there has since been an additional £6,700 in legal fees. Trained chef and experienced landlord Max Greenwood said: “I want a friendly, local pub with a welcoming attitude and community spirit. We have lots of wood, comfy seating and a beautiful redbrick fireplace, ideal for creating warmth and atmosphere with one stroke.” His aim is to get a country pub in the city, and unlike many in the area, he wants his venue to be
for the older generation so it is student free. “I want to aim for people over 25, ale drinkers who like good food,” he says. “Serving a selection of fine wines, ciders and ales, I will not be stocking Stella Artois, alcopops, ‘bottles for £1’ or anything like that. “There will not be special offers aimed at students, or binge drinking.” Max, who is also the chairman of the Rockstone Resident’s Association, has ensured the council that people are very supportive of his plans with The Rockstone after police and environmental health officers showed concerns about antisocial behaviour and crime. “Hopefully the board will see that I am not going to cause trouble, and that this is something that Southampton really wants. There is a
‘The support is amazing, it’s like a shiny cushion of joy’
CALL FOR HOURS TO BE EXTENDED AT REVAMPED PUB
comprehensive CCTV network, which I hope to add to with extra cameras in the garden, the front of the pub and both adjoining roads. “All linked up to the monitors in the upstairs office it can provide good coverage of the building and surrounding area. “Diligent use of the log book will be observed as always. I am also involved with ‘Pub Watch’, ‘Yellow Card’ and other local initiatives aimed at reducing noise and trouble.” After running the St James’ Tavern in Winchester and winning awards, Max felt it was time to find a new project, and hopes the council will back him as much as the people of the area have: “I cannot believe the amount of support, it’s like a shiny cushion of joy!” he says, in reference to the petition. “After reading a whole list of complaints levelled against me, my heart is definitely swelling with joy after seeing the level of support and I am really looking forward opening and getting on with serving my community!”
We’ll get road restoration Cop visit tackles bullying right second time round.. By KEIRA SIMPSON THIS week, Exford Avenue in Harefield undergoes important surfacing work to improve the failed attempt by a previous company. The work involves re-surfacing the road up to Taunton Drive with sections of the road closed off to the residents in the area. The company previously responsible for the work, DK Utilities, have become bankrupt since the job finished and left an uneven road. The road was taken up for a scheduled check on a gas line by a private company. The contract for the re-instatement of the road has
been accepted by Walton’s Civil Engineering, who is employed by a private gas company instead of Southampton Council. Beau Hibbelt, and employee of Walton’s Civil Engineering, said: “We are trying our best to sort the situation out, it was appalling how the previous company left the road.” However, local residents are not too happy about the amount of disruption and noise. A resident who refused to be named, said: “The noise is horrible, I’m trying to watch TV and all I can hear is the buzzing of a drill. I just want all this work to be over.”
By KATIE O’REILLY POLICE officers worked with schools, colleges and other education authorities this week in support of Anti-Bullying week. Inspector Julie Fry, who leads the Hampshire Constabulary’s Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual And Transgender Resource Group, attended the antibullying conference and shared views upon the various types of bullying and why people do it, she said: “We know that that continual drip feed of negativity to a young person or adult can massively affect their lives.” She stated that as the majority of young people have mobile phones and laptops to communicate, most
of the bullying is happening online as the abuse is instant and safe for the bully. Inspector Fry continues to say: “A significant reason why young people don’t come forward and report, either to their teachers or the police, is because they’re worried their primary form of communication and their primary hobby is going to be removed.” She explains that if the abuse is frequent and the content is too horrendous that it’s insulting, then bullying can be a criminal offence. She reports: “In the worst case, people are being attacked and damage caused to property. That is just not acceptable.”
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SKATE EXPECTATIONS FOR CITY’S FESTIVE FUN Temporary rink the jewel in the crown of Bargate’s Christmas fair... so will ditched plans for permanent one be resurrected? By HANNAH GREEN WITH Christmas not far away, Bargate has seen the arrival of a new temporary ice rink. The children of Southampton are eager to get on the ice and parents are happy to see their kids having fun, but is it the best ice rink Southampton has ever seen? In 2009, talk about a new permanent ice rink was voided, after meetings with potential operators collapsed. The temporary ice rink which was supplied and operated by Cousins Entertainment Ltd, and attracted roughly 25,000 skaters over its seven week run in the festive period. However, it was predicted the temporary rink would attract as many as 50,000. This blew the hopes of attracting a permanent ice rink, which is when they decided on a temporary ice rink in front of the Bargate monument. It is definitely an uplifting occasion, especially since S o u t h a m p t o n ’s top rank ice rink closed in 1988. “Since this ice rink has been open, everyone seems to be getting into the Christmas spirit,” said Southampton local Samantha Frankel, 29, “It’s a nice way of bringing everyone together around this time of year, even if it is only a temporary set up.”
A taste of the Continent at festive market By CHARLOTTE ANDREWS THE Southampton German Christmas market returns for its eighth successful year to bring Christmas festivities. Situated just, outside West Quays above bar, The Market features a number of stalls selling a variety of festive goods and foods. The stalls provide traditional German snacks.. Traders from Germany, Belgium, Italy, Spain and South Africa all feature in the Christmas Market. The Market is open till the 31st of December. Christmas Markets are increasingly popular in towns throughout Europe during the winter months, Sarah Roberts 54 a local from Bargate says of the market, “It really gets me in the Christmas mood It’s a great atmosphere” But John Lawrence 67 from Shirley has a different stance believing it’s too commercialised, “It just promotes people to buy more.”. Featured is also a Christmas carousel and Ice skating rink which situated at the end of the Market just in front of the Old Town monument, which gives the town a festive feel just in time for Christmas.
Toys collected for the needy
‘Since this rink opened people seem to be getting into the spirit’ ICE ONE: The temporary rink by the Bargate
By CAROLINE CRASKE OVER a hundred toys have been donated for needy children in Southampton for Christmas this year by Shirley residents. The gifts were collected by Shirley Baptist Church for the Mayor’s Toy Appeal. The mayor, Councillor Terry Matthews and his wife, Lesley Matthews accepted the toys from a procession of children in a special service on Advent Sunday, 27th November. The Mayor said: “The toy appeal is extremely important. It’s great to get the community together so the voluntary services can give gifts to the ones who need it.” The toys will be distributed by Southampton Voluntary Services. Simon Wroe, church secretary said: “We are delighted to support the Mayor’s Toy Appeal as part of our Social Action Program.”
Doomed From Day One Outcry at new store build Police set for Pompey clash bring death metal to city By AMY ADLARD THE death metal band, Doomed From Day One preformed the other night in the small venue, Joiners. The tickets were £5 bought online/with a flyer and £6 on doors, which opened at 7pm. Number of students and fans came along to the show to show support for the death metal bands. Support acts included Desplated, Malevolence, Forever in the Memory, Hades and Albion with all similar music taste. The London metal heads played a set of 3-4 songs from their recently new stuff, which included songs like ‘Pretending’ & ‘Depths Of
Imagination.’ Many screamo and metal songs have very long durations and though 3-4 songs don’t sound much, they made an impression on the audience. James Green (20) said “I enjoyed the gig even though I’m not usually into that type of music.” The venue had a few of the heavy death metal fans who were willing to hardcore dance in the crowds. “Hardcore dancers are people with people with issues with personal space,” said Liam Padfield (20). The band has received great reception online over social networking sites and blogs.
By JOSIE BREEN AS YET another supermarket plans to open its doors within Portswood’s District Centre; there is outcry among the residents who claim the five in place already is enough. Currently, a Sainsbury’s is being built where the former bus depot was – despite the Southampton area already being home to a Waitrose, Iceland, Co-Op, Farm Foods, International Stores and two independent grocers. One resident, Claire Humphreys, 39 and a mother of two from Portswood said: “I find it hard to see how all these shops are making money – there are far too many; it’s
just ridiculous.” Currently, there are two independent grocers in the area and another member of the community, William Morris, 74 said: “The local stores have no chance anymore, long gone are the days of getting your meat from the local butchers and your bread from the bakeries”. Councillor Adrian Vinson, leader of the Liberal Democrat Group for Portswood said: “All district centres are struggling at the moment but with the recession that’s even more the case. “There aren’t too many empty properties – several new cafes have opened recently but whether they will all survive is the question.”
By NATALIE DANIELS POLICE are preparing for one of the biggest games for Southampton FC as they play against Portsmouth on the 18th December. More than 200 police are expected on duty as well as a dog and horse guards. Hundreds are being told to avoid the city and there is expected to be huge crowds that will be using Southampton Central train station. Residents are being told to keep aware of any disruption or disorder and avoid the city if possible. Shops and local pubs are also expected to close.
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LE TISSIER WARREN LUCY’S EXCLUSIVE CHAT WITH SAINTS LEGEND: PAGES 8-9
Table-topping Saints back to winning ways as they pull Tigers’ teeth
HULL LOTTA SHAKING GOING ON
ON FORM: Saints celebrate winning goal
By CATHERINE COLLINS SOUTHAMPTON are still two points clear at the top of the Championship table after grinding out a 2-1 win against Hull on a bitterly cold Tuesday evening at St Mary’s. After suffering a 2-0 defeat to Bristol City on Saturday it was essential that the Saints got back to winning ways and continue their record chasing home win streak. After a minute’s applause in memory of the death of Gary Speed, the game got underway. Nigel Adkins made two changes to the team that started at Bristol, with Morgan Schneiderlin coming in for injured Richard Chaplow, and Dan Harding replacing Danny Fox at left back. Although Saints looked lively for the first ten minutes, Hull were determined and the game looked like it could go either way. It was the visitors who were first on the score sheet when Robert Koren
headed home two minutes before half time. After the break, Steve De Ridder came on for Jack Cork and the change in style of play was obvious with Guly Do Prado finding the net just three minutes into the second half. The tempo continued with Adam Lallana heading in Frazer Richardson’s cross on 54 minutes, taking the score to 2-1. Hull’s demise continued when 11 minutes from time, substitute Robbie Brady took out Dan Harding and the ref, Oliver Langford, issued a straight red for violent conduct. In an interview, Adkins said: “It was a great game. After losing at the weekend we had to respond in the right way, and we have done that. “The crowd got behind the players and the players got the crowd going and that got us two great goals and victory.” The win takes Southampton to their 21st consecutive home win in all competitions.
‘We had to respond in the right way and we have done that’