Solent Splash Extra December 2011

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Splash Friday December 2, 2011

Southampton’s community newspaper

WHO?

Students give their views on Dannii’s uni honour: Page 17

UP, UP AND ..A WAIT

Bitterne tops jobless tables

By JACK WETHERILL IT is estimated that 2,025 people of working age are claiming benefits in Bitterne, according to NHS statistics.

Bitterne has one of the highest unemployment rates in the city.

Official numbers showed a nine percent rise in people out of work in Bitterne from 2009-10.

Council statistics show that in total in Southampton there are 16,070 people not working or claiming benefits. This means that Bitterne makes up 12.6% of all of the unemployed in the city. The Thornhill Plus You scheme is aiming to help residents become more work-ready by providing vocational courses.

Fundraising hero Adrian grounded for knee and hip ops – will city’s Superman return?

Supermarket set for lift-off

By ROMINA DI VITO PORTSWOOD is welcoming its first Sainsbury’s to the area, with building to be completed in February.

Mike Baker, construction manager of the project, says the new store will include a basement car park, sales floor and early years centre as well as a library. The process hasn’t been smooth, with a delay of two months when the client halted work.

Despite this shut-down, Mr Baker said there had been no more delays.

Sainsbury’s is sending out regular newsletters to keep locals informed.

Mr Baker said: “There are currently 50 on-site workers, which will increase to 120.” Opening is scheduled for February 29th.

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‘I’ll be devastated if I can never put the cape on again’

By Laura Dronfield AFTER 15 years of donning a Superman costume to raise money for Children In Need, a local pensioner is hanging up his cape.

Old age has left 64-year old Adrian Lewis desperately needing surgery on both his knee and his hip, which he fears could prevent him from returning to his superhero costume and collecting money for the charity ever again.

Adrian said: “I’m due to have an operation next year so if it all goes well I might be able do it again sometime, but we’ll see how it goes. I’ll be devastated if I can never do it again.”

Adrian first started trying to raise funds for the charity 15 years ago. He said: “When you get to my age you look back and you realise that life isn’t about us adults, but it’s about those who follow us: the children and the grounds that we lay for them.”

He decided he would dress up as Superman to encourage people to donate. “It attracts attention, it’s a bit of a laugh and people are more willing to give,” he explained.

For 15 years he has spent the two weeks leading up to Children In Need making his way up and down New Road, encouraging people to give. He said: “I’ve nearly always worked this patch. I do the Itchen Bridge in the mornings and I do this in the afternoons. I normally do quite well.”

However Adrian admitted that this year has been difficult. He said: “It can be quite good, but it’s a lot, lot harder this year. The economy is flat and people just haven’t got the money to donate.”

Despite the difficulties, Adrian said he would love to carry on raising money for charity in other ways if his hip and knee problems ground his Superman act for good. He said: “If I was able to continue raising money for charity it would be for Children In Need.

“I might well do something else, but it wouldn’t be something like this, because physically I’m not able to do it.”

02//Splash

Festival sees 140 acts bring music to city

By EMILY DAMMENT THE festival ‘Music in the City’ returned to Southampton, with 140 acts playing across 10 city centre venues; including the Vaults, Bargate and City Art gallery.

The festival, which aimed to promote local musical talent, covered all genres of music. With a small budget for advertising, news of the festival spread mainly through word of mouth, and has been deemed a success with over 300 viewers passing through each day.

“It’s all about raising aspirations, with people from the creative industry giving their time for free to make something happen in the city,” said Tony Gumm, festival organiser, “there are so many people out there making great music, it’s just that noone knows about it.”

With this in mind Tony hopes his festival will see no more Southampton talent goes unrecognised.

AGGRESSIVE AND INFECTIOUS.. AND COMING YOUR WAY! KMFDM among acts at charity musical bash

Bid to get city using 2 wheels

By TEHONA WAUGH DO you think cycling is a cheaper and faster way of getting around Bitterne, Southampton so do we.

That’s why Southampton city council is trying to get more people cycling.

The main reason given for not cycling was safety, with people saying it is too dangerous to ride a bicycle on the road.

Bitterne is planning improvements for cyclists from improving existing cycle facilities across the area and are looking into getting more cycle lanes. There are many reasons why cycling is good for you apart from leaving no carbon footprint.

The Average cost of maintaining a car each year is £273 compared to just a £75 bike. Sam Parry local resident in Bitterne says: “I prefer cycling places because it’s cheaper than a car or a bus and you get exercise on your way to your destination.”

Talks to sort street lights

By TEHONA WAUGH SOUTHAMPTON city council and SSE contracting company, which is one of the largest mechanical and electrical contracting businesses in the UK, will be in talks next week over the street lightning in the Bitterne area.

The meeting will also be opened to the general public. The city council and SSE plan to repair the lightning in the area, especially around the local secondary school.

But the neighbourhood are scared as there are talks around the UK of turning off street lights to save money The UK’s 7.5 million street lights cost about £500m a year to power. There are also talks that the lights could be dimmed after midnight too just 40%..

Keith Thomas resident in the Bitterne area says: “Decisions on turning off the street lights should be up to us, we are the ones that will be affected.”

UP FOR IT: William and Jules of KMFDM and, belkow, the Talking Heads

BY PATIENCE TAKYUKA THE Sofa City Bands Collective will be hosting a charity gig and it will be the first time it will be a multiband TV themed charity night at the Talking Heads in Ports wood.

Sofa City Band Collective is a group of Southampton bands that willingly come together to share their skills and talents in order to organise gigs across Southampton and Winchester.

Various local bands and some from overseas will be performing in aid of Jail Guitar Doors, which is a charity that gives guitars and lessons to prisoners.

They will also be performing in aid of the Society of St James; this is a charity that works with the most vulnerable people and providing them with accommodation.

This is a charity founded by Bill Bragg and the Society of St James.

Some of the bands that will be performing include Shimmering Bees, Neko Roshi, Flying Alexanders, Accrington Stanley, Sombero Fallout, The Spiraltones, Botyov1791,KMFDM, Why don’t uke?, Stuart “sweetchunks” Blakeledge, with special guest star MC Catherine “ Hepwright” Wright and loads more.

KMFDM is a band mainly based in the US that plays a crossover between techno/dance and heavy metal with industrial sound.

Band member William Wilson described it as a “cross over between aggressive guitar and infectious dance moves.”

Member Jules Hodgson also went on to say so far there experience has been “different”, but “so far it has been fantastic.” This is only one of the bands that will be playing.

Spiraltones will be performing an SBC night at their first charity gig at the Talking Heads on Friday November 18th. The stage will be transformed into a big television set.

There will also be plenty of seating as well as room to dance. The doors will be open at 7.45pm with the first band live at 8pm. Each band will perform three songs each, including one TV themed cover.

Tickets are £5 waged and £4 on the door. They can also be booked online at only £5 with a 50p booking fee. All proceeds go to charity. Come down sometime this week and have a good time!

‘Experience is different, but so far it has been fantastic’

Play boost for the CAB Unit 11 showcase talent – plus train of thought

By PATIENCE TAKYUKA THE Forty Pound theatre company is rehearsing its ninth pantomime, Midsummer’s Night Dream but it will be a loose adaptation, the subplot is referred to as ‘Bottom’s Dream’.

The cast will include lecturers and students from the University of Southampton. The pantomime will be performing for charity in support of the Citizen’s Advice Bureau. The company is supporting the CAB as it has had its funding slashed at a time when its services were in great demand. Pantomime

is set to run in the Bent Brief pub on the 13th to the 17th of December.

Pub owner Andy Wade said: “First time we have tried Shakespeare.”

The pub furniture will be moved to occupy 60 seats. The ticket price will be £4 in advance and £6 on the door for Tuesday night only.

For the rest of the week the price will be an additional £5 in advance and an additional £6 on the door. All tickets will be available in the pub.

This will also be the “ninth year that we have put on a pantomime”, said pub owner Andy Wade. The show lasts just over one hour.

Emily Damment ASPACE Arts held an exhibition in the gallery above the medieval city gates, showing the work of artistic threesome Unit 11 Studios. The exhibition consisted of four mediums of work; paint, film, drawing, and sculpture.

Daniel Crow, who graduated in Fine Art at Solent University, set up Aspace Arts 11 years ago. With little money he set up a studio in the back of an antiques shop and his vision has grown from there. He said: “The

idea was born out of frustration; there was no support for emerging artists.

“We source the artists in many ways but they have to be emerging, we don’t show established names; it’s not our thing.”

Sarah Filmer, Helen Marland and Steve White, who make up Unit 11 Studios, have worked with each other for three years and also “party hard together”. The three Solent graduates drew inspiration for the exhibition from the train journey from Totton to Southampton.

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ALERT FOR STUDENTS ON NIGHT-TIME WALKING AFTER ATTACK Project ‘will demonstrate God’s love’

T-shirts to help plug park safety message

ALERT: The T-shirt from the SU

By SARAH ALLEYNE A NEW initiative has been set up to help the residents of Bevois Town and Inner Avenue.

The Well community project was set up by Christian residents in an attempt to “demonstrate God’s love in practical ways.”

The project involves a number of community centers and churches within Bevois town and Portswood, including Portswood church and above bar, who regularly host a selection of activities and clubs such as: Kidz Club and community breakfasts.

Project worker Rachel Ayrton said: “It’s all about working with the community to see what they want. We do try to focus our efforts on those in the community who for whatever reason are more vulnerable.”

The project relies heavily on volunteers to help with the local clubs that have been set up.

Rejig could be shops threat

By SARAH ALLEYNE AFTER a Southampton student was attacked in the early hours of the morning last week, it has never been so important for young people to take care when walking home alone at night.

The 24-year-old thought to have been a student from the University of Southampton, was left bloodied and bruised after being beaten and robbed, walking home after a night out on Portswood Road on October 23rd.

The incident came only a few weeks after incidents of rapes and attacks were reported in East Park, which led universities to release posters to prevent vulnerable young adults from walking home alone through unlit areas.

Rose Adams, 18, a student at Southampton Solent University said: “It’s horrible to think all these attacks have happened here at night. “I do get scared sometimes, even when I’m just walking home from the library in the evening.”

Figures show students are one of the most likely groups to fall victim to crime. With signs and posters covering the walls of Southampton Solent University and Halls of residence, students are being urged to not walk alone, or in dark areas and to be aware of their surroundings.

Mother of one Maria Ball, 42, said: “There are a lot of nasty things that happen.

“I feel sorry for the students because they don’t always know what they are getting themselves into. They don’t know the area that well. It can be dangerous.”

By SARAH ALLEYNE SMALL businesses in Portswood are under threat of being demolished to make way for new apartments.

There are plans to redevelop the rundown unit of flats and shops for nine months, leaving shops abandoned and vandalised and shop owners in a difficult position as they await the fate of their businesses.

Driver Hire is one shop that has so far survived the blow of having to move businesses, but has not been informed of what will happen to it and when it will happen.

The original plans were to transform the unit of shops into new apartments. Owner Greg Walter, 52, of Portswood said: “There’s a lot of accommodation here that’s empty.

They simply don’t need to build any more houses or flats.”

“It means we will have to move so we are hoping it will not go through.”

‘They don’t know the area well.

It can be dangerous’

Plans tabled for 121 homes

Pupils plan for change on Church move hits jackpot visit to regeneration visit

By ABI HARMAN THE Harefield regeneration scheme has had a big impact on the local community, especially the children of Harefield Primary School.

The children, aged 7, 8 and 9, visited the area due to be regenerated to see what they thought and to collect data on the amount of rubbish. Leah, a student in the Fox class, said: “The worst thing we saw was a dead fox in a bunch of rubbish.”

The children have also been encouraged to think about what other

members of the community would like to see in the in the regeneration, for example the elderly and disabled.

Nicole, also a member of the Fox class suggested: “More places for dogs and more bins.” Among other suggestions were a pond in the park, walking places and lifts in flats.

While they visited the regeneration sight the classes did a count of all the rubbish left, they found over 100 pieces of rubbish, including a supermarket trolley and an arm chair that had been previously set alight.

By ROMINA DI VITO WARSASH Victory Hall church relocated from North Baddesley to its new location of the Bingo Hall in Portswood, Southampton and was officially opened.

The church, originally built in 1896, relocated after they were too many people to accommodate and “had to run 2 services a Sunday”.

Jan Patching, the church administrator for the past 4 and a half years says there has been “a lot of refurbishment”. £62k has been spent on renovations so far with between a further £70-80k to

be spent immediately to renovate the basement she quotes.

Despite having relocated and expanding their ideas for the church, Jan Patching reassures that “it is a community building but where the church meets”, Victory Hall wants to “integrate with the other churches of the community”.

But why relocate unless they are other plans to develop the church?

Well, Victory Hall now has a 1000 seat venue and will have a crèche, homeless shelter, weekly student lunches as well as lunches for the elderly, alongside a youth club.

By ABI HARMAN PLANS have been submitted to regenerate shops and build 121 new residential units in Harefield.

The new regeneration will include over 100 new flats and houses, including private and affordable housing, either rent or shared ownership for the local community.

There are also proposals to transform the Exford Arms Pub into a Tesco.

The local Council has considered the types of services locals will use and benefit from. The flats and shops were built in the 1960s, until then the area used a Post Office that was located opposite the Exford Arms.

A resident stated: “The flats were an eyesore and I will be glad to see the back of them.” However he also said: “The private housing isn’t needed as I would rather see a high volume of people being allocated more affordable housing.”

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Anger as bin backlog hits three weeks

GHOULS AND BOYS: Kids line up in their scary outfits

By JACOB BENNETT PEOPLE of Shirley have expressed their anger as bins stack up after not being emptied for up to 3 weeks.

Council cuts across the UK have been affecting areas as workers go on strike. Council cuts saw a decrease in wages and in petrol allowances which has left the workers angered and annoyed.

A local resident said: “I am very upset with the council, I’ve made a complaint yet nothing has been done. They send emergency binmen on random days, we never know when they will come” Another resident said “I’m upset, but I understand their anger and why they are taking a stand” The cuts are affecting local businesses also as the manager of one hair salon said, “I’m having to go to the tip to take my rubbish, if I hear them outside, I have to run to get my rubbish out before they go”

Bargate bags £7m arts site

It’s frightfully

By HANNAH GREEN SOUTHAMPTON may be the number one area for students, but with Bargate being awarded over £7million from the Arts Council to build a new arts complex right in the city centre, there is no reason to deny that it will appeal to a variety of people other than students.

It is expected to create 300 jobs to assist in increasing the amount of visitors to the area.

Sarah Bogle, the Councillor of Bargate, said: “There will be a few upmarket restaurants and cafes.

“The arts quarter is a long way off yet, and probably won’t be finished until 2014 at this rate.”

This proves that the credit crunch is still taking effect on new developments throughout Bargate.

However, developer Grosvenor is making future plans for the area around Guildhall Square.

Cops rush to Subway brawl

By EMMA DATSON POLICE were called to the scene of a fight outside Subway at three o’clock in the morning, James Williams an eighteen-yearold student who witnessed the fight said: “Two guys walked in. Then a smaller man turned up and started shouting abuse at the two waiting in the queue. We decided to leave before anything happened but as we were walking out, the three of them followed. We turned to see another larger guy, who had been waiting outside, punch one of the two blokes square in the face.”

Rachel Hanwell, also a first-year student at Solent said: “It was scary.

I’d never seen a proper fight before.”

The fight resulted in two individuals being knocked unconscious through suffering minor head injuries and one man fractured his cheekbone.

Police are investigating.

By CAROLINE CRASKE A SHIRLEY pub has raised £700 for charity by throwing two Halloween themed parties. The Shield and Dagger near St James’ Park held a children’s party with games during the day followed by an adults’ fancy dress night with live entertainment to raise money for Naomi House and Jacksplace, hospices for children and young adults on Saturday 29th October.

The children’s party was held from 11am till 1pm with activities such as musical statues and a game requiring children to bite a donut off a dangling string as well as a fancy dress competition. Alba, who won the competition dressed as a zombie bride, aged 7 said that she was “Really, really happy” to win the £30 prize and had had a good time. The evening

event for adults kicked off at 7pm and featured entertainment provided by Southampton Ska band, The Skore followed by a solo act of songs ranging from Elvis to Bob Marley performed by J P Payney, who also writes, sings and produces for the former.

The frontman, who likes to be known as Payney, stated that he had played charity events for the pub for four years running and the band had stepped in on short notice after the original entertainment had pulled out.

The Splash was also on hand to judge the fancy dress and settled on a joint first place for two staff members dressed as Sweeney Todd and Mrs Lovett which meant £50 was put back into the charity.

The success of both events can be accredited to the organisers, Jenna Cooksoon and Catherine Swanborough.

‘Zombie Alba said she was “really, really happy” to win’

A SCREAM: Payney of The Skore in action

Bring on the big freeze Police station faces axe as council budget cuts bite

By EMILY DAMMENT AS THE forecasts predict early snow and sub-zero conditions Southampton prepares for another harsh winter.

Southampton city council, and their partners Balfour Beatty, have begun to ready the city for this year’s big freeze. As past winters have confirmed, extreme weather conditions can bring the city to a standstill. This year the council have several different prevention tactics already in place.

Some 600 tonnes of salt have been stockpiled with thousands

more tonnes held by the Balfour Beatty group if needed. 41 new grit bins have been installed, meaning that there are now 150 across the city. Five gritting lorries are on standby, more routes have been added to the gritting routes, and staff are ready to clear footpaths.

There are also plans to install two new weather stations. Councillor Sarah Bogle of Bargate said: “I hope they do something about the pavements this year if there’s a big freeze as a lot of people had falls and injuries trying to get about earlier this year.”

By JACOB BENNETT HAMPSHIRE Council budget cuts will see the closure of Shirley police station with the alternative being to cut back on jobs.

The closure is due to cuts being made in the Hampshire Council budget, although the closure is an option, the other would see the council having to cut back on jobs which has been seen as a heavy fall back plan which has seen disapproval from councillors within the Shirley area. Although plans

have been set in motion, it is to be expected that the station will not be closed for another five years.

Councillor Satvir Kaur said: “I would prefer to lose buildings than jobs, logically. Ideally, it should stay as it acts as a deterrent to crime.”

“I will be fighting to get as much police presence in Shirley to assure the safety of the public.”

“Ideally, I hope it becomes housed within another public service unit such as the fire station so the public still have a place to go to if in need.”

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BRIDE AND GLOOM: Alba, 7, won the fancy dress competition as a zombie bride

Cam’s bid to reform NHS ‘a lame duck’

By PATIENCE TAKYUKA DAVID Cameron has introduced a new health and social care bill.

The bill proposed to create an independent NHS board, promote patient choice and to reduce NHS administration costs. The bill will give doctors, GPs and nurses more control over the health service.

Ministers argue that the Bill will help the NHS deal with the demands of an ageing population, the costs of new drugs and treatments and the impact of lifestyle factors.

However many residents in Portswood failed to see the good that the bill will be doing. Shop assistant Ian Lamming at October Books said: “It’s just paving the way to privatisation.”

Kevin Fagan shop owner of Fagan’s Shoe Repair, Key chains and Travel goods, said: “It’s not very good. Don’t they get enough money? After all they do get paid a share bit.”

A holy lot of fun at church

good fun!

By PATIENCE TAKYUKA PORTSWOOD church invites you to a fun day. Senior Pastor John Aryton describes it, “As something to bring the community together.”

The fun day is particularly aimed at bringing the neighbourhood together. There will be free entry and food and the event will be Christmasthemed to ensure an enjoyable day for everyone. It “normally involves 300 to 400 people”, said churchmember David Gills.

Kid’s games will also be provided such as face painting, various children’s workshops, board games and much more. As well as various activities for adults such as outdoor games, crafts, games and loads more.

There will also be a pantomime in which Portswood church will collaborate with Highfield church and Victory church. The event will be held on December the 17th.

East Street to be bulldozed

A SCREAM: Organisers Jenna Cookson and Catherine Swanborough. Right, Some of the great costumes

£48million rejig’s a good £30m to rebuild estate start.. but more’s needed

BY JACK WETHERILL THORNHILL has been greatly improved by £48million government funding but some complain the community is missing vital aspects.

The Government provided Southampton City Council £48million in 1999 to kick-start a new scheme to improve the less well off areas.

The funding has helped many areas, including housing, education and employment, and policing.

However Jean Millington, 64, who has been working at Barnardos for 12

years, said: “There is no proper play area for the kids.” Two colleagues, Glynis and Susan, agreed. Glynis added: “There’s also no bingo!”

The latter is set to change, however, after £10million of the money was spent on building the new East Point Centre. Paul Bennet, managing director of the East Point Centre, confirmed the centre will provide a regular bingo night. He said it would bring together the elderly members of the community who may not be able to socialise otherwise.

By KEIRA SIMPSON THE proposed £30million redevelopment project in Harefield has left local residents cheerful as plans have recently been revealed.

Pharmacist Toni Knightwood, 42, of Harefield said: “It will do the estate good as the place has become run down over the years.”

The Exford Avenue Shopping Parade has been allocated the redevelopment as the area has recently suffered from high rates of crime and unemployment.

The scheme hopes to create new homes and businesses but

also new jobs for people in the area. Conservative Councillor Daniel Fitzhenry said: “It’s a large development program, probably the largest in the England.”

The community seems to be hopeful at the thought of a new community and new prospects.

“It’s great that new jobs are created as it’s really tough these days to get one,” said 22-year-old, shop assistant Al Smith. “It’ll be great for the community.”

Over 120 homes are to be built, plus four retail units. The planning application went through last month.

By EMILY DAMMENT EAST Street shopping centre is to be bulldozed and replaced by a three-storey Morrisons. The plans, proposed by Arcadian Estates, are due to start in 2012 with an expected opening date of late 2013.

The Morrisons is going to provide 400 jobs, as well as keeping open the link between St Marys and the city centre, increasing footfall and bringing more shoppers in.

The shopping centre is at the bottom of East Street, just minutes from the busy High Street, but its popularity in recent years has dwindled so much that only a few businesses within remained open.

Many shoppers are now favouring the West Quay shopping centre located on the High Street, which has 70,000 square metres of retail space, over 100 shops, and a food terrace on the top floor.

06//Splash

A club that’s for life skills as well as fun

By KEIRA SIMPSON CHILDREN at Woodlands Youth Club in Harefield expressed how much their club means to them as they revealed it’s effective for keeping them off the streets.

The club, which runs on Tuesdays and Thursdays, holds a variety of events including cooking and sports. Club leader Ben Cohen, 39, explained: “The activities give the kids responsibility and confidence, even cooking pancakes teaches them life skills.”

The club receives around 40 children between 11 and 17, who all live around the Harefield area, with entry only costing 50p.

Youth clubs prove effective in reducing youth crime. Ricky Allen, 15, said: “If there wasn’t a youth club I would probably be on the streets.”

The club is also in the Kickz Project, a football-based charity that offers free football coaching.

Council blitz on housing

By ELIZABETH BAKER SOUTHAMPTON City Council will be given more power to crack down on the number of houses in multiple occupation by March 2012.

A policy was approved which means, from March, landlords will need to have planning permission to have three or more occupants who are unrelated living in one house. Portswood is one of the areas which will be most affected as a high number of students from Southampton University live there.

Councillor Vinson, said: “A big issue is the number of houses in multiple occupation.” However, Tracy Scott, a hairdresser, said: “The new rule is a stupid idea. I would rather have students living near me than local teenagers.”

Other areas affected in the long term is the Polygon where most students from Solent University live.

Police warning over robberies

By KEIRA SIMPSON HAREFIELD Police have recently warned local residents following a series of robberies last week.

Police have tried to take precautions by patrolling the area.

Signs on streetlamps warn residents “remove your property or someone else will”, another strategy used by police to cut down the crime rate.

Beverly Wilson of T and J Brothers said: “It’s getting worse, we’ve had three robberies in this area last week. When’s it going to stop?”

One resident added: “This is a nice area, with nice houses. But recently there’s graffiti everywhere and rubbish bags just left on the street.”

Broken Britain is something that has become a reality for many people. For the people of Harefield it’s become a way of life. As one resident said “it’s not quite good enough”.

Things are going really Well, so come on down COMMUNITY SCHEME CELEBRATES 6 MONTHS

By CHARLOTTE SMITH THE Well Community Project has come to the end of its successful 6 month pilot and is now looking to respond to the needs of the Bevois Town and Inner Avenue community.

The project started in May 2011 with a 6 month pilot scheme that included interviewing 184 residents in the Bevois Town and Inner Avenue area. The aim was to find out what they like and dislike about the area and what sort of activities and projects could be set up to improve the sense of community.

Project worker Rachel Ayrton said: “The community audit was hugely successful. People in the local area seem to be particularly interested in social/ leisure activities such as sports groups, film nights, book clubs and music nights.

“There’s also a strong interest in activities to clean up the local area and for opportunities for people to get to know their neighbours.”

The project is based in both the Above Bar and Portswood churches.

It is run by a steering group with representatives from both churches, some of whom live in the local area so they have an idea of what needs improving and what residents want.

The Steering group are looking for ways to enable the project to continue to be staffed, so that they can answer suggestions raised from the community audit by early December. Rachel said: “We are always keen to recruit volunteers – this is something students could do.”

If you would like to volunteer or find out more go to www. thewellcommunityproject.org.uk.

sfdsdsfdsdscds

MISSION: Project worker Rachel Ayrton

Store opening date set Streets awash with litter as bins strike drags on

By KATY HAYES A NEW Sainsbury’s planned to open in Portswood has confirmed that February 29, 2012 will be the date of completion.

The development started last year, but due to design elements, the site was forced to close for two months whilst the planning applications were revised.

Councillor Vincenzo said: “Many opposed the application, the current layout is very different to what it looked like originally.”

The project was going to be a lot smaller but the decision was

changed and has now become a much larger venture.

Mike Baker, the construction manager for the contractor company, says: “There probably are some objections.”

This £20million project will include an underground car park, sales floor, mezzanine floor, a library, early years centre and new homes built on Belmont road.

Some 50 workers are on site every day but as the project continues, the amount of workers needed, will rise to 120; this will ensure that the work will be completed on time.

By MARNIE THEYER SOUTHAMPTON’S binmen continued their strike leaving the city’s streets littered with rubbish.

Shirley is among the worst affected as green waste has not been collected since May and emergency waste collections are unpredictable.

It was proposed that 600 workers would lose their job and a further 285 would face a 4.5% pay cut, which led to the strike that began in May. Local barber and Shirley resident Susan Gill said: “I am on constant look out

for the bin men. We never know when they are coming. I have to rush out to take my bins when they turn up.”

A resident of Raymond Road said: “There is an infestation of maggots in everybody’s waste and I have seen more rats in the past two months.”

All members of the union have now over-run the legal 12 week strike period and could now face losing their jobs. Many are unfazed by this and will not stop until they can negotiate and come to an agreement on pay, which is still yet to be done.

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Cop shop blaze was caused by electrical fault

By MARNIE THEYER THE cause of the fire at Shirley Police Station has been identified as an electrical fault.

The station was closed to the public after the fire on September 25th, as the investigation was carried out. Corporate Communications Officer of Hampshire Constabulary, Ian Sainsbury said: “We now know the fire was non-suspicious and due to faulty electrical equipment.”

The fire alarm sounded at 16:45, triggering the evacuation. No one was hurt, but firemen of Redbridge and St Mary’s were tackling the blaze for almost an hour. No other buildings on Shirley Road were affected, due to the quick action of the fire brigade.

There was significant damage to the office equipment and furniture in the room, but this did not affect policing in Shirley as officers continued to work in other areas of the building.

Police hunting jewel thieves

IT WAS A REAL BLAST

By ABI HARMAN THOUSANDS of Southampton locals descended on Southampton waterfront for fireworks at the weekend, in aid of Guy Fawkes Night celebrations.

Despite the cold weather, people of all ages wrapped up and took to the event organised

by Southampton Round Table No 4 club, for an evening of entertainment.

The colourful fireworks were launched from a barge on the water for the spectacular display.

The event wasn’t just about the fireworks, there were a number of fairground rides and food stools providing hot drinks in the cold conditions.

The fair began at 3pm when families arrived to join in the fun, there was an entire section dedicated to children with a very strong family

Thousands enjoy fireworks display

theme throughout the event. With fairground rides and attractions such as the candy floss stall, there was something for everyone.

Hannah Every, 9, from Portswood said: “The best thing is the candy floss stall, I can’t wait to see the fireworks later!”

Just after 7:15pm the fireworks began and were well worth the wait. Lasting for around 15 minutes, there was amazing firework after amazing firework filling up the sky for the thousands that turned up to see. Then came the big finish, with the biggest fireworks yet in the theme of a Spanish fiesta.

Beth Webb, 19, a student at the fireworks with a group of friends said: “I think it is great that this has been organised, the best thing is definitely the fireworks and the fact that all the money FUN FOR ALL: Crowd had plenty to do at fair raised goes to local charities.

Victory Church aims for City braced for cold snap success after site swap

By LARA SHINGLES THE Victory Centre has relocated from North Baddesley to the old Bingo Hall in Portswood.

Jan Patching, who has been with the church for close to four and a half years, said: “Our congregation was too big for the space we used to have.

“We would be doing two services a day. Now with the Bingo Hall there are around 1,000 seats, so we can just do one.”

Jan said the church used to run bus

services for members struggling to get to North Baddesley. With most of members in Portswood, the move has made things easier for everyone.

While renovations won’t be complete for three to five years, ‘The Victory Centre’ is open and quickly finding its feet in Portswood.

Jan spoke about the coffee room, breakfast area, and other programs they are now able to introduce.

Councillor Vincenzo Capozzoli said: “Victory church adds to the character of an already diverse area.”

By LARA SHINGLES SOUTHAMPTON city’s defences against extreme winter weather have been boosted following forecasts of early snow and freezing conditions.

Councillor Daniel Fitzhenry, Cabinet Member for Environment and Transport, said: “Frozen roads and footways can bring the city to a virtual standstill so it is vital that we continue to have the resources and further improve our response.”

Southampton City Council and highway partners Balfour Beatty are ready to keep the roads moving

when the bad weather hits. Six hundred tonnes of salt have already been stockpiled. Should this not be sufficient, there is access to thousands of tonnes being held by the Balfour Beatty group.

Forty-one new grit bins have been installed this year, bringing the total number up to 150 across the city. Five gritting lorries are also available at any one time to grit the city’s roads.

Student Lucy Jones, 18, said: “I was beginning to worry about walking to university. It’s nice to know my route will be cleared.”

By KATY HAYES POLICE are investigating stolen jewelry incidents that have happened recently, in Portswood town.

It has been reported that there have been three occurrences in Portswood and others in Highfield, Sholing and Kingsland Market.

P.C. Jim Dineen said: “The victims are vulnerable and that’s why they have been targeted.” There have been two cases where the victims involved, were elderly people but it has been said that young students are also prime targets.

It has been stated that two women approach victims with jewelry and imply they are selling it or giving it away. They wrap it around victim’s necks and as the women remove it, they take away existing jewelry.

People who have any information are urged to call Portswood police station on 101.

Residents sick of rubbish row

By KIRSTY FENSOME THE residents of Southampton have been struggling with rubbish collection for the past months, and in Bevois Valley the issue has become the forefront of people’s complaints about their area.

When approached there was little worry about anything within the patch in people’s opinions, however once the subject of waste was brought up the mood changed.

It is clear that miscommunication between the council and the public has at times worsened the circumstances and whilst the rubbish situation is slowly getting better, it is obvious that more could be done in the sense of informing the people.

54-year-old Bob Singh of Bevois Valley Road said: “There’s a lot of backlog so we don’t know when they’re coming. The council haven’t explained themselves.”

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Pyjama party to raise cash for the needy

By HARRIET WHINKUP THE pupils and staff of Harefield Primary School continue to raise money for a brand new adventure playground at the school.

The money raising efforts began on Thursday 13 October with a ‘Pyjama Day’ at the school, where the staff and pupils went about their average day wearing their pyjamas.

The fundraising will continue with other events such as dressing up days, sponsored events, toy days and cake sales.

The children of Harefield Primary School voted on their favourite theme of the new playground, they decided on the winning theme of castles.

The children will also create designs for the exciting new playground development at the school.

The fundraising will carry on throughout the school year with more events like the pyjama day.

Outcry at cuts to bus service

By JENNY WELLER THE residents of Bitterne are disappointed with the deteriorating standards of the bus services and with 40% of the population being reliant on public transport; the issue needs to be addressed.

Conservative councillor of Bitterne, David Fuller said: “The main issue is around the pensioners’ bus pass. The compensation rate given to the bus companies is very low and means bus routes with a lot of pensioners become unviable. So we are in the catch 22.”

Many in Bitterne are dependent on buses. The council are aware of the situation, “The buses are an issue and more are needed here,” said labour councillor of Bitterne, Simon Letts.

One of the main problems is cost of the buses, a return to trip to the centre of Southampton costs around £2.80 depending on age.

I COULDN’T BELIEVE IT WHEN I COPPED THIS DRIVER’S CHEEK..

Police car caught taking a sneaky shortcut

By GEORGINA LIPSCOMBE RESIDENTS were gobsmacked when they saw a police car, without flashing lights, take a hesitating look before driving down Wilton Road, in Shirley, Southampton – which only bikes, buses and taxis are permitted to use.

A resident from Branksome Avenue, who preferred to stay anonymous, made a complaint to the local police station.

He said: “I was just walking when I saw a police car ahead, pull out of Winchester Road, pause and then cruise right down Wilton Road.

“I’m just bringing it to your attention.

“This car didn’t have any blue lights and hesitated right before turning down the road. To me

Student of 24 hurt in attack

By LARA SHINGLES A STUDENT was left with minor injuries after an attack in Portswood.

The student, 24, was on his way home from a night out when with friends when he was started on by a gang of men near to the junction of Portswood Road and Lodge Road.

One of the gang members then stole the student’s mobile phone.

The student chased after the offender, and managed to tackle him to the ground where a fight began. The offender hit the student a number of times in the head.

The student was left with swelling and bruising following the incident, on October 13.

PC Andrew Aldeson called this incident an “opportunistic attempt.”

He said an appeal for witnesses has been issued in the press and a description of the offender has been released.

ISSUE: The road, also pictured below left

this doesn’t sound like it was an emergency.

“It clearly says bus, taxi and cyclists only but it’s getting ignored more frequently now than ever before. I have to go the long way around and I don’t think it is fair.”

The Officer said: “I’m not going to criticise because I don’t know the situation.

“They do not need the blue lights unless they need to make other drivers aware. I suggest you contact the council.”

Another resident of the area, Colin Wilson, 41, said: “I see loads of cars go down Wilton Road, my next door neighbours do it every day. People use it as a rat run.

“The police occasionally watch the area, but they only let people off with a warning. Nothing actually gets done about it.

“I actually once saw a woman on a bicycle and she tried to stop a car from turning down into the road. She got off her bike and stood in front of the car with her arms out stretched.

“I agree with it normally, when the Infant School is running however in the summer holidays, there’s no need for it.”

The riddle of male suicide Police thicken blue line to tackle antisocial yobs

By LARA SHINGLES ACCORDING to a NHS report, men are nearly three times more likely to commit suicide than women.

There have been many stories of men taking their own lives this year alone. Recently a man, believed to be in his early 30’s, had to be talked down from a bridge above busy railway line, St Denys, in Portswood.

The main reason men are taking their own lives instead of working out their issues, is their reluctance to talk about feelings as it is not considered ‘manly’. Depression, bipolar disorder, and other mental

health disorders are also common reasons.Whatever the reason, there is so much help available for people with suicidal thoughts.

Samaritans is a well-known source.

GP’s, religious leaders, counsellors, and even friends can also offer aid.

There is also a support group called ‘Campaign Against Living Miserably’. Kieran Silver, who felt suicidal after suffering anxiety for years said: “When I visited the CALM website, it really helped me to know that what I was going through didn’t have to take such a massive toll.”

By JENNY WELLER THORNHILL council estate has been witness to several cases of anti-social behaviour over recent months giving cause to a much needed high police presence in the area.

Five calls have been made to police concerning youths in Hinkler Road.

Thornhill’s safer neighbourhood’s team stated how one the main priorities in the area is to “tackle anti-social behaviour and street drinking.” More than 155 incidents of anti-social behaviour in Thornhill

were reported in September alone, one of which being a violent crime in Hinkler Road. Police in the Bitterne district have made reducing cases of anti-social behaviour one of their main priorities.

Police will be increasing patrols around the area in which the disturbances are occurring.

Police community support officers will also be approaching young people and informing them of the consequences and effects of antisocial behaviour.

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Campaigners take fluoride Bill to No10

Sam back on the crest of a wave

By GEORGINA LIPSCOMBE ANTI-FLUORIDE campaigners in Shirley hope to put the final end to fluoridation of the water systems in Southampton by petitioning a localism bill to the government.

A local group have forced actions to be made not to allow fluoridation to go ahead as they fear the long term effects. The locals will present the localism bill to the city council next week. If they are successful this petition will finally give the people of Southampton the power to object.

Councillor, Ramond Mead, declares how this issue is “dividing the local authorities and the council” and expresses his desires to put a “definitive end to this invisible toxin.”

Frank Tye, a resident in Shirley, asks “why should we have to take medication we don’t want? Doctors could give you an aspirin for a headache, but it would still be your choice whether to take it or not.”

STUDENT BEATS BUG TO BAG 3RD IN CONTEST, NOW HIS SIGHTS ARE SET ON OLYMPICS!

By HARRIETTE INGS CATCHING a nasty virus two weeks before the ISAF World Championships proved a struggle for 18-year-old Sam Sills.

After making a speedy recovery from regular doses of antibiotics, the student of Southampton Solent University is on a crest of a wave, after being awarded third place in the Youth Sailing World Championships.

Family and friends were delighted by Sam’s achievements.

Julie Sills, 38, from Cornwall beamed: ‘He has always been a hard worker! His father and I support him in everything he does. He should be so proud.’

The student, studying Yacht Design, comments on the ‘out of this world’ experience: ‘I still can’t believe I got third place. It was good wind, big waves, perfect conditions for racing’, says Sam, who was put on antibiotics two weeks beforehand.

‘There was loads of media attention, people on boats watching on the sides. It just created a buzz, making it more like a spectator sport. It was out of this world!’

Sam, who has been involved in the watersport for over nine years, was selected to represent the country in the Championships: ‘It was pretty major. Only one girl and one boy get picked from each country. I was stoked when I got chosen.’

With the Windsurfing World Championships over, Sam is training for the World Olympics in windsurfing, in Australia, December 2011.

This will be his first senior competition.

Good luck Sam from Solent Splash!

Fete nets £2.5k for hospital

By HARRIET WHINKUP A FUNDRAISING Christmas fete was held in Thornhill to raise money for the NICU at the Princess Anne hospital in Southampton.

The event at St. Christopher’s church hall was to raise money for the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.

The fete was organised by The Worlds Best Selling Group. This is a group on Facebook which sells secondhand items amongst its members. Member Jackie Bunday worked hard to organise this event The money was raised through a 20p entrance fee, a tombola and handmade crafts. The group have raised £2,525.86 from all of their fundraising efforts and hope to hit £3,000 by the end of December.

The money that is donated to the NICU is invested within the unit in several areas, including, staff training, and new equipment

‘There was lots of media attention. It was out of this world!’

Outcry by parents over school places shortage

By SERENA BENJAMIN SCHOOLS in Southampton have now found places for 58 primary school students who were waiting for over a month. However, there are still 17 children who still do not have place.

Earlier this month councillor Moulton said: “Southampton has seen an unprecedented number of families new to the city applying in mid-August for places this year.

“The council is doing everything it can to remedy this and will continue to offer school places as quickly as

possible. We will find a place for every child who needs one.”

This left parents outraged as weeks went by and still youngsters did not have a place. Many could not travel to faraway schools because it was not convenient.

Father of three, Jamie Dilworth, 26, said: “They’ve been off school for four weeks. That’s not good enough.”

His children now have a place at Harefield Primary school.

A local councillor said the school is working to improve their intake.

THRILLED: Sam with his boards

Rejig to bring 100 homes

By HARRIET WHINKUP THERE will be several changes in Southampton this year including Harefield where over 100 new homes are to be developed.

In September plans were submitted to develop new homes as part of the Council’s Estate Regeneration Scheme. The plans mean Exford Avenue Shopping Parade will be demolished and there will be space to accommodate 35 houses and 90 flats.

The development, scheduled to begin this year, is part of the regeneration scheme that will

include new developments in several different areas throughout the city. The programme has been set in place to provide good quality housing, create local jobs, improve people’s wellbeing and ultimately reignite community pride.

Councillor Peter Baillie, the cabinet member for housing, said: “This is splendid news.”

Most residents also support the proposals. Those who will be affected by the development are to be paid to move. They will also have the option to return to a similar property, when the work is done.

Estate plans a definite Plus

By JENNEY WELLER THE Thornhill estate in Bitterne is considered one of the most deprived in the South of England.

Despite the disadvantaged area of Bitterne and being one of the poorest places in the South, conservative councillor David Fuller said: “There is a massive sense of community at Thornhill.”

The group Thornhill Plus You, have put into action an estate regeneration project. This consists of new housing and the development of Hinkler road shops. The shops are to be owned by the residents so that they can earn money from the profit of the shops.

A board of residents and city council members was established to form the Thornhill plus you limited group. The new deal for community project is also involved in bringing the neighbourhood a new community centre.

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Parent input to transform Ofsted visits

Looks like the city’s gonna get more Urban

By KAYLEIGH KENT PORTSWOOD Primary School is one of the 3,380 schools in the south east included in Ofsted’s new scheme, Parent View.

It is an online service for parents to voice their opinion on 12 aspects of their child’s school including the quality of teaching and levels of homework. The aim is to involve parents so information can be used

by Ofsted when making decisions on where to inspect and when.

The National Union of Teachers has claimed it to be, “open to abuse”.

But Mother of two, Susie Towbridge, 36, said: “Teachers dislike the system because they have less control over their school. I think it’s a great idea.”

Levi, 23, of Portswood said: “When I was in school, I felt Ofsted inspections were too organised and never saw the reality. The idea sounds promising and should be used throughout the UK.”

HIGH STREET REJIG AS DATE SET FOR OPENING OF OUTFITTERS STORE

Concerns over charity shops

By BRADLEY SHADWELL IT has been confirmed that the major retail chain Urban Outfitters will be opening their newest branch in Southampton’s very own Above Bar Street, located directly across from WestQuay.

The date of opening is yet to be announced.

Stefanie Marshall, PR Manager for Urban Outfitters said: “We’re excited to bring Urban Outfitters to such a cultural southern city as Southampton; it will allow us to communicate the brand to our key customer base.”

Urban Outfitters offers a wide range of menswear, women wear, home and media, their central location in Southampton not only makes their store accessible to residents but is bound to be a favourite amongst students.

This desired High Street store is sure to be tempting for Southampton’s students, but the test for Urban Outfitters will come with tackling the student budget.

Stefanie Marshall said: “Urban Outfitters lead and excite with a creative mix of the most up and coming designer brands, accessories, interiors, books and music.”

The competition of Above Bar Street will certainly heat up once Urban Outfitters have opened. Southampton will certainly attract Christmas shoppers this year.

Stefanie Marshall continued: “Visual displays produced in-house from reclaimed materials create a unique experience in each store and along with local art installations and live music reflect the personality of Urban Outfitters.”

By KAYLEIGH KENT PORTSWOOD residents have voiced concern about the growing number of charity shops in the high street.

There are six charity shops ranging from Age UK to PDSA all within the space of nine stores. Not only is the high street overwhelmed by charity shops, the stores are now struggling to find volunteers.

Portswood is getting larger stores, such as newlook and various supermarkets, which now threatens the shops remaining.

Andy Valery, 28, of Portswood, said: “With larger stores the charity shops will die out. I’d like to see the area of Portswood becoming slightly more recreational, and to see the smaller shops compliment the larger stores.”

However Roz, 39, from Bitterne said: “I love the charity shops, not only do they do something worthwhile, you can find some good bargains.”

Lidl snaps up car park land

By KAYLEIGH KENT A PORTSWOOD car park along Westridge Road has been sold to Lidl, with plans to build yet another supermarket in the town.

The car park has been purchased before the application for planning permission and it is yet to be decided if the development will be granted.

The council have agreed to sell the car park under the legal obligation that the store provides free short term parking for the public.

However the consequence of the build means the parking spaces will be severely reduced. Currently there is huge competition for on street parking and little off street parking.

Councillor Adrian Vinson said: “This is the last thing Portswood needs.” With Portswood already home to more than seven food outlets, there will also be a damaging effect to smaller businesses.

STYLE: UO clobber

Blitz on potholes blight Pupils switched on to eco message by switching off

By LAUREN GOODCHILD SOUTHAMPTON roads are safer to drive on with a reduction in the number of potholes.

The plan has been enforced by Hampshire City Council to make Southampton roads tougher to withstand the cold winter ahead.

Southampton saw a lot of problems with the potholes created from last winter’s heavy snow and constant bad weather.

Potholes can cause a lot of damage when hit, causing lasting effects to your steering, suspension, tyres and wheel alignment. This

does not come cheap to fix. One of the people affected by this was builder, Sam Pedlar, he said: “I am glad to see something being done about them, I hit one last winter and it cost me £300.”

In April, the local Highway Authorities received £200m from the government, which is to be put towards repairing damaged roads.

The council plans to ‘future proof’ the roads in the Hampshire area, targeting smaller roads in rural locations, and work carried out will include structural repairs, resurfacing and highways drainage.

By GEORGINA LIPSCOMBE SHIRLEY infant school has turned to saving energy and money by switching off to encourage an environmentally friendly attitude among their students.

Children are persuaded to participate in the EDF Energy initiative Switch Off Fortnight, promoted by Olympic gold medal winning cyclist, Victoria Pendleton.

The EDF’s school programme has organised various activities for the children to learn about how to save

energy; to switch off lights and other electric appliances and also turning off the standby button.

About 110 schools across Southampton and Hampshire are among more than 4,000 schools nationally taking part.

Hazel Hayter, headmistress of Shirley Infant School, said: “Our School has been awarded the Bronze and Silver Eco School Awards. The environment is very important to us and we have all been working hard to help as much as we can.”

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Have a gay old time at Edge after revamp

CLINCH: Edward and Bella

By JOSIE MINTER THE city’s Edge bar is its only gay nightclub, a venue that caters for everybody, every night of the week. In July The Edge was voted gay Brighton’s out of town venue, it comes as no surprise then that due to the ever-increasing numbers, the club has just undergone a large refurbishment.

A revamp of the Box Bar means a bigger dance floor and larger bar, which coupled with the already popular Loft and outdoor bar means that The Edge is moving up the ladder of must go to venues in Southampton.

The club is in one of the busiest student areas and competition is steep, but students seem to come for the friendly atmosphere. Sudent Ellen Milne says: “It’s a really nice club, everyone’s always nice and it doesn’t feel over done or too ‘clicky’ like some of the bigger clubs.”

Concerns over street youths

IT’S GOT THE BITE STUFF AS the new Twilight film hits the big screen, expectation is running high and fans are in a frenzy.

Luckily, KIRSTY SUMMERFORD found they had nothing to worry about, with the latest outing giving thrills aplenty...

THE widely anticipated movie from The Twilight Saga, Breaking Dawn Part 1, drew a massive audience for the first midnight screening.

It follows the premiere in London, where fans camped to meet the cast.

Robert Pattinson, Kristen Stewart and Taylor Lautner all made an appearance unlike last year with the release of Eclipse, where they all skipped the London premiere.

Delighted fans, or Twihards, as they’re known waited in line to get a glimpse of the stars as they walked the red carpet and signed autographs.

For all the Twilight fans, I know this movie won’t disappoint. Sticking closely to the book, it continues to tell the twisted love story between

‘Taylor has his shirt off.

What’s a Twilight film without that?’ vampire, wolf and human. Within the first two minutes of the film, Taylor Lautner already has his shirt off.

What’s a Twilight film without that?

Without spoiling it for those who

haven’t seen it yet, the first part of the last movie from the saga holds more than what you’d expect.

If you’ve read the books, you would already know what’s going to happen, but it’s a surprise how much they have used for the first film.

Amy Hart, 21, after watching the film at the midnight screening said: “I kept thinking it was going to stop, but then it kept carrying on, giving us more!”

There are a few surprises, and it’s not for the faint hearted, as there’s a lot more use of blood in this one. However, it is definitely the best one yet.

Whether you are Team Edward or Team Jacob, you will enjoy it. This is a must-see!

Female students wary of Car parking issue rolls on park as nights draw in

By JOSIE MINTER IN LIGHT of the recent attacks in Southampton, many female students are finding journeys home a daunting prospect. With daylight saving under way, streets and parks are getting darker and more intimidating.

Local student Sophie Connick spoke of her fear after hearing the latest warnings to not walk through the parks at night. Sophie aged 19 regularly uses the quicker journey home, its something she has always done, but she said: “I never worried

about walking through the parks at night, they have always been well lit and haven’t been an intimidating place for me, but because of the recent attacks I now worry that one of those girls could have been me, I never walk alone anymore.”

In recent weeks there have been no further reports of attacks or incidents in the parks and surrounding areas, but students, especially females, need to be aware of the dangers of going out alone at night and avoid poorly lit areas.

By EMILY SMITH DESPITE the state re-development scheme 15 years ago that promised to aid the problems in and around Bitterne, the parking situation is one that remains the same.

Many of the houses in Bitterne are unable to accommodate a car and so people are forced to park their cars on the side of the road which leads to over- crowding.

The local shopping area is also an issue when it comes to spaces and parking. With around 8,000 people and only 1,000 car park spaces, many people have been

forced to use the local bus service or walk into town. City council member David Fuller said: “This is a recognised problem within the community but we simply do not have the money to sort it out.”

The lack of parking has caused frustration among residences which has lead to many people having their cars vandalised.

However, considering the money from the state re-development scheme being gone, the issue isn’t likely to be resolved in the near future. But, for now, the problem is not going unnoticed.

By CAROLINE CRASKE AN increase in youths loitering on Shirley high street at weekends is raising concerns.

Katrina Garner, bar staff at the Salisbury Arms at the end of the high street has noticed more undereighteens are trying their luck in the pub as the winter months draw in.

The 55-year-old mother of two including a teenage daughter often has to ID and refuse youths as well as move them on from the benches outside the pub although they are causing no trouble as, unfortunately, they are needed for the customers.

Far from annoyed at their presence she said: “Do the parents know where the youngsters are half the time?”

The number of youths on the street rises on Friday and is especially strong at night but usually dies down

by Sunday which suggests a general boredom at weekends.

£15m facelift does wonders

By EMILY SMITH AFTER being named one of Southampton’s most deprived areas, Bitterne has been given a major face lift thanks to a £15 million grant thanks to the ‘State Re-development Scheme’.

Ten years on from the grant, Bitterne has been transformed into an area with a thriving community aimed at supporting and helping each other thanks to various schemes and volunteers.

One of which is the ‘Plus you limited’ charity programmes which aims to help get older people out and about with exciting trips.

Another scheme is a charity to help train young, single mothers to cook and take care of their children as best as they can. As well as, with new parks and skate parks being built to provide children with a fun, active and safe activity for kids.

12//Splash

Student left shaken after drunken chase

By KATIE O’REILLY A STUDENT was left shaken after being chased by a drunken man as she walked alone to a friends house.

Students have been warned by police to never walk alone at night.

This comes after incidents involving attacks and rapes.

The man was seen lurking in a bush on Saturday night near Bedford place: he confronted the girl, after she heard him whisper: ‘’Are you scared.” He then began to chase her.

The girl escaped into the student building, only after the man fell, where her friends were waiting for her. ‘’His image will stay with me forever,’’ she said.

The man followed her to the student building and tried to gain access. Hysterical, they managed to call the police yet the man fled the scene upon hearing the sirens.

The man is in his mid-40s, with a beard and dressed in black clothing.

ALWAYS a favourite in the city, genre-hopper King Charles served up a musical banquet for his subjects at the Joiners. KATIE O’REILLY was there...

Long live the

King

RETURNING to Southampton, Indie Singer-Songwriter King Charles blew the audience away with his multi-genred display of songs at The Joiners.

The popular and exciting performance of his “Tail-Light Disco Tour” was filled with a variety of The King’s rock, folk, acoustic and electronica songs that kept the crowd transfixed on his mystifying set.

His easy to listen to style blended with his unconventional presence electrified the audience as the folk-pop artist makes the skill of performing look so simple.

Not only does he impress with his talent but also with his willingness to talk to his fans.

In between interacting with the audience, telling them: “I came dressed as a zebra for you tonight”, he performs a mixture of his most well known songs including “Ivory Road”, “Beating Hearts” and “Love Lust”, the latter in which every single person sung and cheered for their most obvious favourite.

His eccentricity wowed the packed group as the classically trained singer climbed up on the amps and swung with the lights during his wild cover of “We Didn’t Start The Fire”. Changing the lyrics of the verses creating a more modern and satirical sound, the cover achieved a huge animated response from the crowd as the thrilled King performed proudly to his fans.

As the West London singer announced he was about to perform his new single “Bam Bam” the hysterical and screaming crowd launched themselves forward in awe of The King, attempting to touch his clothing and guitar.

The buzzing atmosphere continued throughout the evening as his dreads were unleashed from the beehive-do creating a manic frenzied crowd of people that were dying for the locks to lash across them.

After the show, the amiable artist greeted fans and signed merchandise along with posing for photos. A passionate and emotional evening for both artist and audience created a fruitful gig, another successful set for The Joiners.

King Charles’ dedicated fans are awaiting the release of his new album in 2012.

Help us save vital centre

By JOSIE MINTER THE Northam community centre has for years been a meeting place for the community and a refuge for those seeking help, but the recent drop off in volunteer numbers may result in it having to shut its doors.

Brenda Rhone, chair of the committee at the centre, said: “Northam is known for its diverse community, we have residents from all of the world living in this estate.

“The centre used to offer a place to congregate, but over the years, the numbers of visitors have diminished and so have the number of staff, if we carry on the way we are then who knows how long we will be here.”

The centre hosts a number of groups for the area, there is a crèche and toddler group, a group for the over fifties and ‘SureStart’ use the building as a base for their work with young people from the community.

Hub faces axe as cash is cut

By CHARLOTTE SMITH THE future of The Third Age Centre in Cranberry Place, Bevois valley, is undecided as the council cut off funding Cities everywhere are feeling the impact of budget cuts, not least Southampton City Council who need to meet a shortfall of £15.2 million in 2012/13. The council are aiming to protect as many public services and jobs as possible, but tough decisions still need to be made.

The Third Age centre is an independent wellbeing centre providing support, resources and activities for the over 50s community.

T. Ford, 60, a receptionist at the centre said: “We’re relying on the money from renting out our rooms for events like conferences. Our wellbeing centre is very important to the people that come here so it would be a huge shame for that to stop.”

‘The crowd launched forward trying to touch his guitar’

DELIGHT: King Charles wows the crowd

Cash reality hits students Lamps and fireworks of Diwali will light up city

By KATIE O’REILLY IT IS safe to say that student life is all about partying, eating junk food and drinking alcohol, but how long until the student loan is no longer there to lend them a hand?

After asking 5 students about their financial state it is obvious the majority are concerned about how to manage their money.

A recurring issue was that students found themselves drunkenly spending their money on a kebab or a burger and chips from the local shop.

Rinsing their money on

unnecessary food is one of the main budgeting problems. James Hunter explained: “I’m so used to relying on my parents that it has come as a bit of a shock to be sensible and independent.”

Living on two 70p bags of pasta a week, Will Coles stated: “I’m not used to eating so little, I miss my mum’s cooking.”

When asked about jobs, most of the students said that they would rather have one for extra income, but Emily Quaile explained: “Due to a busy timetable there is no time to do work, let alone with a job.”

By SAMANTHA CLARKE WE all know about Halloween and Christmas, but what about Diwali, the largest Hindu celebration also known as The Festival of Lights.

Diwali is the start of the Hindu New Year and marks the beginning of winter. It is celebrated in honour of Lord Rama and his wife Sita.

Bevois Valley is one the more diverse areas of the city, therefore celebrations for Diwali are expected.

Diwali is celebrated for five days; each day represents a significant

story associated with the festival.

On the 3rd day the main celebration begins which is the festival of lights.

Bevois Valley shop owner Deval Chittoor, 52, explains: “On the 3rd day of the festival celebration really begins, it’s our new year, that’s when you’ll see diya oil lamps in my shop window and everyone will gather for their big firework display.”

Oil lamps and candles are also lit to warn of evil spirits away; overall Diwali is equivalent to other religions celebration of Christmas.

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AS WE HONOUR OUR BRAVE DEAD, WHAT OF THOSE LEFT LIVING ROUGH ON STREETS? Figures show the number of ex-military left homeless is up

By JAK BALL THE number of ex-military people that leave the services and become homeless is increasing all over England and Wales. Southampton is no different to any other city.

There are over 89,000 people per night sleeping on the streets.

Statistics show that 1 out of every 10 of those peoples are former service men and women.

According to research more than 20,000 people leave the armed forces each year. At least a quarter of these leavers end up spending nights sleeping on the streets.

It has been a very recent development that England and Wales recognise former armed service workers as re-housing priority. Many of these ex military people suffer from combat stress, drug dependency or mental health problems.

Posttraumatic stress disorder is one of the main mental health problems suffered by ex armed service men. This is becoming increasingly common which can stop them from finding employment, accommodation and stops them being able to adjust to civilian life.

When people walk home at night, through the alleyways, through the parks, and through the subways, most pass a sad and sorry sight of a

By KYE GOFF BITTERNE is facing removal from a Parliamentary Constituency after plans made by the Boundary Commissioners.

A public hearing was made in Portsmouth last Friday by the Commissioners, where they revealed their plans to remove Bitterne from the Southampton Itchen constituency.

This would mean Bitterne would be placed in a new constituency which stretches to the outskirts of Portsmouth.

John Denham, Labour MP for Southampton Itchen said: “People want their MP to represent the real community they live in.” Simon Letts, Councillor of Bitterne ward said: “I think Bitterne Ward is best represented by an MP whose main function is to represent Southampton” Labour has pledged to take part fully in the consultation and has put forward an alternative.

Fears over cop shop closure

‘Since I left the Army I’ve felt abandoned by society’

CRISIS: More and more former servicemen are finding themselves homeless

homeless person begging.

Not many however stop to think how did that person get there? Not many stop to think how does that person feel? Smelly, disgusting, pathetic and desperate. These are words that people associate with ‘tramps’.

These are words that the homeless people hear being shouted at them night after night.

The sight of homeless people is becoming ever more common. The stereotypical image of a man sat with nothing but a blanket, a dog and a beer can is set into people’s

heads. People that have had a very privileged life, yet take luxuries for granted. Luxuries such as running water, heat, a bed.

Mr Paul Lambert, who was very particular and demanding that he was a ‘Mr’ said that he hated the fact that he had no home. Yet he said it was society that was to blame for where he has been left and that after leaving the forces there was nobody there to help him.

“Whilst in the forces I have been shot, stabbed and beaten. I was beaten and attacked as a child and nobody was there to help me.

This hasn’t changed. Ever since I left the army I feel like society has

abandoned me.” Mr Lambert also told how after leaving he turned to alcohol in order to deal with some of the scenes he had come across.

Life for him spiralled out of control and all because he had nobody there to help him. “On the 11th of November, people stop to pay respects to all the soldiers that have died defending our country. But what about people like me, what about ex military men that, as far as society is concerned, are dead? We don’t get remembered, we just get forgotten.

“I have a degree, but because I don’t have a house, nobody will employ me. It is a vicious cycle and I cannot see any way out.”

April 2012 set as opening Mayor opens festive fair date for Sea City centre

By CHARLOTTE SMITH SOUTHAMPTON’S new Sea City Centre is due to be finished by April 2012 - in time for the 100th anniversary of the Titanic disaster.

The £16m museum project is expected to draw in 150,000 visitors a year. It will have two permanent galleries and one temporary special exhibition, entitled ‘Titanic: The Legend’, which will commemorate the anniversary and look at the major role Southampton played in the story.

The attraction is being currently

Outcry over constituency switch plans

being built in the Old Magistrate’s Courts, which adjoin the Civic centre.

Features the museum will include are a state of the art ‘flying theatre’ and replicas of parts of the Titanic.

If funding permits after 2012, more of the Old Magistrate’s Court 1930s building could be used as new exhibition space. Mike Harris, Head of Leisure and Culture said: “The aim is to provide an attraction that is not only an educational resource, but a must-see destination for visitors to Southampton.”

By JOSH SHENTON THE mayor opened Southampton’s Christmas market welcoming worldwide traders to join local stallholders last Thursday.

The market includes a festive ice rink that allows up to seventy Christmas shoppers to take a break and glide around the rink for fortyfive-minute sessions.

There will still be no return of the city’s official Christmas lights display which was discarded three years ago, as the Tory council leaders said that it wasn’t good value to replace the council’s own

worn out lights. However the market huts and trees in Above Bar along with the Marlands and West Quay shopping centre will be decorated with their own festive lights.

The traditional German-style Christmas market will feature gift, continental craft and hot food stalls for eight weeks.

Western Skating Ltd provided the ice rink, which the council granted planning permission, however the council would not subsidise it. The rink will stay open until January. A 45-minute session will cost £9 for adults and £7.50 for children.

By JESSIE MULHERN CRIME rates have fallen in Portswood but with the police station closure this could all change. Offenders could see this as an opportunity as they would be less likely to be reported and get caught. ‘’It’s been there a long time and they are not considering the area population.’’ says 51 year old shop manager, Angie Reedman who is adamant crime rates are certain to rise with the station closure.

Pauline Waddell, 48 from Swaythling said: ’’The police station isn’t even open enough anyway!’’

The new police front desk has been reported to open in the new Portswood Sainsbury’s. In 2009 the Lordshill Sainsbury’s opened a community police station in the aisles of the store. You can get your shopping done and report crimes all in one go.

Common set for a clean-up

By JESSIE MULHERN SEVERAL dates have been organised in the run up to Christmas to help tidy Southampton’s little common.

Residents of Portswood are being encouraged to clean and care for this conversation area which is highly regarded as an asset to Southampton. ‘’Everyone has the right to live in good surroundings’’ Stated local Councillor Adrian Vinson ‘’But preservation of the little common is a big issue.’’

The common has been deemed an area of environmental interest because of the nature, wildlife and recreation opportunities within it.

Residents have campaigned against development plans for the common and other areas worth preserving in Portswood of historical or environmental value, which is why they are being encouraged to maintain interest in their common.

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Developers to blitz run-down Bargate site

By MEGAN ELLIOTT SOUTHAMPTON Bargate Shopping Centre set to be demolished and redeveloped.

“The Bargate Shopping Centre is home to 35 speciality outlets all under one roof; offering the latest in extreme sports, urban, street, club fashion and music,” according to the Invest-In-Southampton website.

But this is not what seems to be the case. Walking into the shopping centre you’re greeted with a whole row of empty, disregarded shops.

There is no movement in Bargate Shopping Centre, only silence.

Natasha Elliott, 22, said: “As soon as you walk in it feels like you’re in a horror movie.” She added: “Everything is abandoned it’s just not what it used to be!”

Most shoppers head straight to West Quay if they need shops around the city due to its biggest UK shops all under one roof.

Park gets new lease of life

By JAK BALL A CENTURY after St James’ Park was opened to the public; a total transformation has given the Shirley community a park to be proud of.

A brand new cafe, scenic walks, play facilities for children and a community room brings the once dated area into the 21st century.

In January 2006 local residents founded the Friends of St James’ Park to help improve all aspects for the community. With now over 450 members this group has a vital importance to the work.

Shirley resident and single mother of one, Jenny Smith, said: “It is nice to finally see all the hard work that the local community and council have done turn into this final product.”

St James’ Park isn’t the only part of Shirley being invested into, with £1 million also being put into the Shirley estate to improve surrounding areas.

Legion to join in war service

By LISA THOMAS SOUTHAMPTON City Council will be teaming up with the British Legion to show their respects, by hosting the annual remembrance service.

Official members of Southampton, including MP’s and armed forces will arrive at the Cenotaph Park early November 13th for the procession for the remembrance service.

The service will be full of a large number of the public at 11 am for a minute silence to remember those who suffered and died in World War 1, including civilians and family members of those sacrificed.

The public may view the service as a celebration, but Councillor John Noon says:“I see it as a remembrance to those who sacrificed their lives, and civilians caught in the middle,” he adds: “the service isn’t a celebration of war, but an anti-war, anti-conflict celebration.”

Car park sold as site for Supermarket booze bid area’s eighth superstore

By ROMINA DI VITO SOUTHAMPTON City Council has agreed to sell the car park in Westridge Road to build what will be the eighth supermarket in Portswood.

“It will be an issue”, says Liberal Democrat, city councillor Adrian Vinson, “because does Portswood need yet another food store?”

Westridge Road car park that runs off Portswood shopping centre has proven to be effective and “very well used” as it includes up to 5 hours free parking. However, now the council

has agreed to sell the car park to supermarket Lidl there has been “a lot of concern about potentially damaging small independent businesses to make a living” says Cllr Vinson.

Although a Lidl is being planned, the car park at Westridge Road will have to remain open for people other than the new supermarkets shoppers. Sharing the car park with the public will result in “there being fewer spaces and more competition” continues Adrian Vinson.

By ROMINA DI VITO PORTSWOOD local supermarket, Sainsbury’s, is putting forward an application for a licence that will permit them to sell alcohol between 6am till midnight.

Although the supermarket is still being constructed and is not due for completion until February of next year, local off licences are not concerned about any competition once Sainsbury’s licence has been confirmed.

Shop assistant, Harshill Patel of “Beers and Bottles, off licence” says that he is not at all worried about

Sainsbury’s becoming a threat and assures that it will not affect the shops profit.

“We are open 24 hours,” he adds, “Sainsbury’s will only be able to sell alcohol from 6am till 12, it won’t affect us. There is nothing to fear when it opens.”

With a licence to sell alcohol from as early as 6am, Sainsbury’s is raising issues throughout Portswood of an increase of antisocial drinking and associated behaviour.

“6am is too early,” continues Harshill Patel.

Kate sets sail for Olympics STUDENT PICKED TO SAIL FOR TEAM GB IN RIO 2012

By JESSICA THORNTON-MARGETTS SOLENT University student is amongst the first few athletes chosen to the represent team GB in the London 2012 Olympic Games, making her debate in the Elliot 6m sailing event.

This time last year Kate Macgregor was beginning her second year of studies in a business degree at Southampton Solent University, occasionally helping out her older sister and training partner Annie Lush in their racing campaigns.

Now, a little under 12 months on from being a part of Solent’s World Student Yachting Championships winning side, Kate has received the news she had been dreaming of; being named by Team GB to join her big sister, Lucy Macgregor and fellow team member, Annie Lush in next year’s Elliot 6 match-racing event.

She said: “This is brilliant, I just can’t believe it. Taking part will be amazing. This time a few years ago I would have neve rhtought I’d be in this position.” Like Kate, the Elliot 6 will make its Olympic debate in the summer of 2012.

It is also Kate’s home county of Dorset which will host the 10 sailing events, in the challenging waters of Weymouth and Portland Harbour.

WATER GIRL: Kate in action with crew Athletes from around the world will compete in a range of crafts, including keelboats, dinghies and windsurfing boards, navigating through the open water of the South Coast. However the event will be short lived, failing to earn a place in the 2016 Rio Olympics.

Preparation for the games will take place later this month in France

where the 31st Student Yachting World Cup event will be held.

The competition gathers the best student sailing teams from around the globe for a week of races and rivalry.

Not only practice for Kate next year, but also a chance to help to retain our title after being crowned 2010 student world champions.

‘The contest gathers the best student teams from the world’

Beast way to celebrate.. Festive fun as traders and, er, Willy Wonka arrive

By LISA THOMAS BASED in Eastleigh, Centrestage Productions Youth Theatre is celebrating their 20th anniversary in February 2012, with the production of Disney’s famous Beauty and the Beast.

Through the help of fundraising events such as market stalls and funding by Angela Holidays manager, the CPYT team are able to afford the costs of £25,000 for the set, UK national costumes etc. in order for a successful production in 2012. The cast of 60 youths 1118 will be attending rehearsals

and performance based activities every Wednesday.

Following on from ‘West Side Story’ last year, artistic director Peter Harding claims the team are “pushing the boundaries”.

He says: “We want to do something big, to move forward,” as the Disney classic is a “family show” it should attract more publicity making the 20 years celebration a phenomenon.

Tickets for the Beauty and the Beast will be from £7 or a family ticket is available (2 children, 2 adults).

By MEGAN ELLIOTT CHRISTMAS has come early this year in Bargate, Southampton, and the public can’t wait to see what’s in store for them over the festive season.

Southampton’s Christmas Festival Market has already opened, bringing traders from all over the world; France, Germany, Belgium, Austria, Italy and India – you name it, and they’re here, joining the Sotonians for this extraordinary exhilarating enjoyable festive season!

Tracy Rednapp, 46, said: “You

can’t get any better than Christmas in Bargate. It’s like everyone’s eight again and we all become so amazed with everything around us!”

Whether it’s the newly built skating on ice, in a real life winter wonderland brought to you by Western Skating Ltd, watching ‘White Christmas,’ at the Mayflower Theatre, to admiring Willy Wonka at WestQuay there’s fun for everyone.

Student, Charlie Charalambides said: “It’s my first Christmas here, but so far it all looks cool.”

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Students start hunt for 2nd year housing

YOU JUDGE: The current line-up of the panel

By LISA THOMAS FIRST year students are once again planning to find houses for their second year at Southampton.

Although University students are still in their first term, it’s already time to tackle living arrangements for next September. Sarah Bogle, Bargate councillor has mentioned the popularity of the Polygon area, as student’s first choice for second-year housing.

The Polygon, located next to Bedford Place, is a popular location for students.

Being located next to clubs such as Buddha, 90 Degrees, Revolution and Reflex, this is ideally where the majority of students would like to be based.

Mrs Bogle has said: “most people like students as they bring money to the city,” she recognised that students provide the city with £40,000 annually, the majority of the money coming from the local pubs and clubs.

Although the Polygon may seem like the ideal place to live for a student, with having clubs and a Subway practically in your back garden, Sarah Bogle did state that Universities, educational programmes and information packs such as leaflets and posters, are trying to discourage excessive binge drinking, as a way for students to be aware of the inflicting damages they cause on themselves, and potentially on others.

DOES X STILL HIT THE SPOT? War dead are Opinion split on show following its biggest shake-up

By MEGAN ELLIOTT THIS year X factor viewers saw the biggest change to the show since the move to the live auditions – the new generation of judges. The Southampton public have been speculating their views on this.

Francesca Elliott, a 24-year-old, from Bargate claims: “The judges bring a sort of swagger to the show.”

“They’re feistier, more opinionated, and actually care about their acts not just about winning for themselves.”

A recent survey shows that Kelly Rowland is the favourite out of the new boisterous bunch with 65% of the votes, before Tulisa with just 30%.

There’s been tension behind the scenes as Kelly and Tulisa are

clashing. Backstage sources explain how the girls got so bad over the summer’s auditions, they’re hardly speaking and the production team have been warned to keep Tulisa, 23 and Kelly, 30, apart.

The rivalry on-screen is being carried off-screen, and although Chloe Long, a 19-year-old, Solent student said: “I’m not surprised there’s been arguments, Tulisa acts as though she knows it all but in actual fact Kelly is so more experienced.

However, the publics opinions differ, as Sally-Ann Dalton, the 28-year-old nursery teacher believes that “Tulisa’s attitude is so strong she’s so aggressive I love it and love her so much more than Kelly!”

‘Tulisa’s attitude is so strong, so aggressive – I love it’ She added: “I always get nervous for if anything happens when it’s live because there’s so many disagreements it’s so entertaining.”

Although a few of the Southampton public were upset that Simon Cowell won’t be making an appearance until December’s final as he’s launching the US version of ITV1’s talent show, including the married, 48-year-old, Claire Kurti who was “let down” that she wouldn’t see his “handsome” face for another few weeks.

Sources confess that he’s still in charge: editing every second of every minute restructuring right up to the minute of broadcast.

The frustrated 18-year-old student, Charlie Charalambides, exclaims how he never votes because it’s all “fixed anyway,” the student stated: “Simon Cowell’s the judge of the programme itself.”

Student outcry as water Boo a top draw at gallery switch-off affects halls

By MEGAN ELLIOTT STUDENTS share angry concerns after their water supply is switched off for 48 hours in halls!

Mercury Point, Hamwic and Deanery were just the few halls that were unlucky enough as to have to put up with living without any source of water for two whole days.

The reason behind this was due to maintenance work being carried out to the water supply by Rossair, a building services engineering company. This was a vital annual

maintenance check for health and safety reasons. Although the halls warned students the water supply will be switched off. At the end of the letter they gave students the chance to report to their reception if they desperately require their water.

However, Francesca Ehrnreich, 19, said: “I know we were warned, but I didn’t realise that we wouldn’t have type of water! I was so thirsty and needed the toilet but I couldn’t go!”

The management team of all halls involved apologised.

By NICKY MEYER SOUTHAMPTON City Art Gallery is holding a free entry exhibition showing the works of Boo Ritson.

Born and bred in Surrey, Boo has an extraordinary abstract way of creating art. Fascinated by American culture and iconography, Boo uses a mixture of media. Her works involve her painting her subjects in emulsion paint then using digital photography to capture her subject in performance.

Ritsons work is described as a painting over still life: “like a skin, recasting as an image of itself”. The

works exist somewhere between painting, photography, sculpture and performance. Ritsons aim is for her audience to question the imaginary portraits.

The Art gallery attracts our local community throughout the year and it is constantly growing bigger and better. One wing of the galleries is shut in order to make greater space for future exciting exhibitions.

Many fans of Boo have flocked to see her work. The gallery have even organised a date to talk about Boos work for people who wish to learn more.

shown respect

By NICKY MEYER 93 YEARS ago world war one ended.

November the 11th marks the date the armistice was signed and peace was called upon the countries involved in the brutal war.

The city’s annual remembrance service tppk place on Sunday the 13th at the cenotaph. The service started at 10:55am in time for the 11am minuet silence. The Mayor and other city councillors were there along with local business institutions.

There was a parade through the streets starting at Guildhall square at 10:30am, leading up to the cenotaph.

Fury at halls web crashes

By LiSA THOMAS STUDENTS at Solent University are outraged by the lack of internet access on a regular basis.

Those in halls of residences such as Lucia Foster Welch and Chantry pay up to £110 a week, this includes internet access. In spite of this, the internet system has crashed on various weekends; an important time for students to be doing work.

Student Amy Nockels, 19, says: “I have a lot of work to do and need the internet for research,” she adds: “It’s a pain to go to the University’s library as it’s so busy in there, even when the internet isn’t down.”

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Help the SoCo project hit the right notes

By NICKY MEYER THE SoCo music project is a selfclaimed not-for-profit community scheme. They get stuck in and get involved with just about everything, from young person storytelling to intergenerational film making.

They work with schools, community groups, youth clubs, and individuals..

Matt Salvage a budding entrepreneur and co-founder of SoCo said: “I always wanted to work in music but never thought I’d be able to”. The group have events all the time and according to Louis Duarty, a keen volunteer for the project excitedly boasts: “Every weekend we’ve pretty much got something!”

As a team, the hub seems a bubbly and friendly place to work in.

The ‘Hub’ as the SoCo producers call it, is a great and vibrant studio that is loud and proud in the dark corners of the shopping centre.

They work with such companies like; find your talent, Hampshire county council and creative civil partnerships. Events such as ‘What the fest’ and summer urban youth festival were showcased by the team and bought together loads of volunteers. You can contact them on: www.socomusicproject.org.uk

Why Sami says Seize the Day

All the fun of the six-a-side

By BRADLEY SHADWELL EVERY Wednesday twelve of Solent’s budding athletes come together at the new, state of the art, facility, Test Park. Leisure League, a six a side football league, aims to bring together students of all years from Southampton’s Solent University.

Sam Howlett, 18, a first year who plays for the team, ‘Bin the tears, steak and beers’ said: “I think it’s a great opportunity for a student, particularly Freshers who can get to know each other better and have some fun playing a sport we all enjoy.”

“EVERYTHING inspires me” says Sami Chokri, a.k.a. Sami Switch. At first glance he looks like your typical Solent student loving life but there is so much more than just what meets the eye.

Hailing from Reading and just 19 years old, Sami Switch was signed to the independent label BlakMagik records after he was scouted via YouTube on SBTV over a year ago, a pretty big achievement at such an age.

“I’m influenced by the likes of Mumford and Sons, Drake and Chase and Status” says Sami sat in the kitchen of his Halls of Residence. It becomes clear that there is something a bit different about Sami Switch.

After constantly being compared to the likes of UK artists Devlin and Professor Green, it is easy to assume that his music is something that has been heard before.

“I want to make music that evokes emotion” declares Switch and he seems to be well on his way. Self-penned tracks such as ‘Silver Line’, taken from his debut mix tape ‘Carpe Diem’ sees Switch reflecting on himself, dripping with emotion.

Constantly writing new lyrics, stored on his Blackberry, Sami lives, breathes and eats music. Speaking proudly of his debut mix tape ‘Carpe Diem’ (“Seize the Day”), he describes it as “my first attempt at making a CD” and what an attempt it is. It is blatant that Switch is creatively intelligent, his knowledge of words and how to make use of them seem effortless is his biggest talent reminiscent of a classic literary genius.

But it is his innate ability to play around with words that give him that poetic edge that modern music lacks.

But there is another side to Sami Switch as his alias suggests: “I chose the name Switch because I’m a mix of personalities.” Studying a Business Management degree at Solent, Sami also has a strong head on his shoulders and an obvious academic flair. So why didn’t he choose to study his passion of music?

“Business studies was the one subject I was best at in GCSE and A Level” So it seems that he has a realistic side.

Looking to the future and it seems Sami has big dreams; “I want to make it and do it properly but I am still finding myself musically” His drive and motivation for music is refreshing to see as opposed to just being in it for the money and celebrity.

But it is also his ability to see there is room for improvement that makes him a real person behind the grime bravado which is amazing to see and it becomes crystal clear that there is so much more to come from Sami Switch.

‘I chose the name Switch because I’m a mix of personalities’

Fury as event off at 11th hour

By JESSICA THORNTON-MARGETTS OCEANA night club caused yet more controversy when hundreds of giggoers were let down last minute, with the announcement that SUB:MISSION event had been postponed.

Despite the club advertising that they were still open, Dirty Box Promotions broke the news via Facebook.

Many of the people who purchased tickets have been left frustrated with Oceana, who were still promoting the event hours before the news broke.

Dirty Box Promotions, who broke the news of the cancelltion to wouldbe revellers, said: “If we had known sooner, we would have told you – the next Sub:Mission will be bigger and better.”

They suggested that the event had to be suspended due to the current news of the Luminar Leisure group going in administration.

Southampton Solent University is crawling with talent – it just hasn’t been uncovered yet. AJ TAYLOR spoke to MC Sami Switch...

AMBITION: Sami, AKA Switch, is an aspiring MC

Superman helps fill coffers Shop owner warns of a ‘bleak future’ for young

By JESSICA THORNTON-MARGETTS SOUTHAMPTON’S very own Superman took to the streets this week in aid of raising money for charity, Children In Need.

Adrian Lewis, has spent the week collecting money for the charity, donating up to 15 hours a day.

Starting at 6am and sometimes not finishing till 9pm that night.

Adrian, dressed in a Superman costume, confessed to going against his wife’s wishes of taking it easy. He said “I need a hip and knee replacement so this probably isn’t ideal.” However, despite his

own problems he says: “I have a choice to do what I do,” before adding, “The children I do it for don’t have a choice.”

He admits that the ‘Pudsey Bear’ fronted campaign is the only charity he feels this passionate for, acknowledging that the children’s generation is always most important as they will be the ones in years to run the country.

Adrian, who usually raises “a few thousand” will see his money going towards making the charity’s vision of making sure every child has a safe and happy childhood.

By NICKY MEYER A LOCAL corner shop owner has spoken of his fears for the future generations in the face of rising crime and antisocial behaviour.

Bholesh Kakiya, a father of two and owner of Alfresco talks of a “bleak future” for the new generation.

Bholesh claims that not a week goes by without him having to escort someone out his shop for bad behaviour, and he says that: “the police are always slow to act.”

As a Father he wants what is best

for his children and he says he would be horrified if his boys spoke to him with the lack of respect that the young generation of today do.

But not everyone sees it that way. Gemma Protheroe, a student studying at Southampton Solent University, says: “Not everything’s doom and gloom, it’s the run up to Christmas and the government are switching on their game.

“People need to start believing that their glasses are half full sometimes.”.

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DOCTOR WHO?

Students flock to the Oak for comedy night

By MEL WYLIE THE Royal Oak pub was packed out with students on Wednesday, all enjoying the cheap drinks, the buzzing atmosphere and looking forward to a comedy night which takes place every couple of weeks.

The pub, popular with students, is located near the halls of residents for Southampton Solent University.

The free event is presented by Ben Shannon who is studying a degree in comedy at the university, and the acts are also on the same course.

One comedian, Sam Marrow 21 from Yorkshire, insisted that he was planning to take a break from standup. “Southampton is a really good audience”, he claimed as he came out to meet his audience, “I started about a year ago and my first gig here was at Soul Cellar.”

Other comedians who performed on the night include Oli Carey, Mike Reed and Darryl Edge.

Merchant to play Guildhall CONTROVERSIAL: Dannii in her doctoral gowns

NEWS that Southampton Solent University has awarded Dannii Minogue an honorary doctorate has been greeted with disbelief – and anger – in some quarters. ALEX PINDAR went out and gathered some opinions...

SOUTHAMPTON Solent University has awarded Dannii Minogue an honorary doctorate making her a Doctor of Media.

However, not all students of Solent University feel she deserves the recognition.

Twenty year-old, Music Journalism student, Fran Botham, believes: “it is unfair that someone with no connection to the university can be given an honorary doctorate when thousands of students put in years of hard work to achieve a university degree. If she went to Solent then

fine, but she has never even been to Southampton.”

First year criminologist, Matt Collins, 19, said: “It is just an attempt

by Solent to get publicity and raise the profile of the university.”

James Roberts, 18, studying Film and Television in his first year at Solent, stated: “It’s not like Dannii Minogue needs the degree to get a job so it seems pointless.”

A spokesperson for the university said that the former X-Factor judge was an example of what could be achieved with “talent, persistence

and hard work” and stood out as a good role model.

The mother-of-one was presented with the award during a ceremony on board HQS Wellington on Thursday, 10 November, by the University’s Chancellor, Admiral the Right Honourable the Lord West of Spithead.

In response to the students’ doubts, Solent’s Vice-Chancellor Professor Van Gore argued: “Ms Minogue has had a remarkable career as an actor, singer, singer songwriter, TV celebrity, fashion designer and entrepreneur,

built up over twenty years. Her charity work is significant and includes a charity with a direct link with our Chancellor and our maritime specialism at Warsash hence the choice of a ship as venue.

The University regards her as a very worthy role model. The press coverage has been worldwide and is overwhelmingly positive.”

Ms Minogue is reportedly “honoured and shocked” to receive the award, which she has been given on the back of her contribution to the entertainment industry.

‘It is just an attempt by the university to get some publicity’

Scenes of violence marr Rubbish anger piling up new Call of Duty release

By JESSICA THORNTON-MARGETTS SOUTHAMPTON’S high-street saw this year’s most anticipated video game, Call Of Duty: Modern Warfare 3, turned into reality, when scenes of violence broke out.

The Gamestation store saw the midnight release of the game overshadowed by a small brawl between gamers, replicating the violence scenes within the game.

A clash of opinions fuelled by growing impatience’s was said to be the blame. Gamers got caught

up in a heated debate over whether this latest game to the Call Of Duty series was better than last month’s big competing release, Battlefield 3.

One male was left needing hospital assistance after a suspected broken nose; however no allegations or charges were made.

Yet most people good moods.

16-year-old Nathan Sykes who had been waiting outside the Bargate shop for 3 hours for the release said: “The midnight release has become part of the gaming experience.”

By JESSICA THORNTON-MARGETTS DISRUPTION to waste collection continues over industrial action and as the city’s rubbish mounts, as does residents frustration.

Just months after refuse collectors and street cleaners walked out in the summer, striking continues as workers remain in dispute with the council over a 5.5% pay cut.

“I don’t know why this keeps reoccurring,” said Jayne Abbott of St.Marys. “A lot of public sympathy has been lost towards the workers.”

However, due to collection staff ‘working to rule’ and an ever

growing backlog of rubbish, contractors have even been brought in to try and help the problem. Residents have been told

by Southampton City Council that everyone should receive residual collection every two weeks and recycling collection every four.

Some people are suggesting a council tax reduction or refund should be issued for missed waste collections.

However, Southampton City Council refused this, under the Local Government Finance Act 1992.

By CHANTAL BROWN SOME people are quick to dismiss Southampton Guildhall as an “indie” kind of place and would rather pledge their time to the cinema or to the theatre, so you’d be forgiven for overlooking it when in fact the Guildhall hosts a variety of acts showing through the year.

But by far the most interesting would have to be Stephen Merchant A.K.A co-creator of hit show “The Office”. Manager of The Guildhall Box Office, Stephen Sambrook says that he was, “surprised that he chose here” referring to Southampton to perform at “as it turns out he’s doing a tour over the UK”.

This isn’t Southampton’s first brush with fame, singer Pete Doherty took to the stage in 2009 where he refused to stop performing after the 11pm curfew. Staff had to unplug his equipment and usher him off-stage.

Cop campaign after attacks

By CHANTAL BROWN A NEW campaign has been unveiled in a bid to prevent attacks on residents and students of Southampton following a series of attacks at various points in the city.

“Don’t Walk Home Alone” aims to increase awareness and promote prior planning of journeys home, particularly for students who may have been out drinking.

The Hampshire Constabulary said: “In the past two months there have been two or three incidents and residents are concerned. We are working with both universities in the hopes of reducing further attacks.”

The spokesperson added that they are putting in place “regular patrols in hotspot areas”. Police stress that citizens should not panic as although the descriptions of the attackers have been similar, they have taken place in different areas.

18//Splash

Campaign to plug dangers of drinking

By AMY FRENCH WITH the Government spending over £2.7bn each year to alcoholrelated problems, the NHS cries, “There’s help out there” The National ‘Alcohol Awareness Week’ is launching a “Love your liver” compaign this year, across the U.K, from the 14th – 20th Nov. Primary care trust teams across Southampton, Portsmouth and Hampshire are spending the week raising awareness to the major health risks that excessive drinking can cause. The compaign encourages people to keep a drink diary of the week so that they can keep up to date with how much they are consuming.

The medical centre in Bargate has posters and leaflets to put up in the waiting room in order to promote this awareness, and Sandy, from the NHS local events team states, “The compaign provides screening and brief intervention for alcohol use.”

Marching for beauty goods

By AMY FRENCH ‘DIAMOND beauty’ are organising an event whereby 100 students, both male and female will march around the city centre to advertise their cheap and affordable beauty treatments and products.

Students taking part will wear black and bright pink clothing and will hold banners to advertise the beauty parlour.

The action will all be filmed and Melanie (the manager) will be leading students through the town on a tuck - tuck playing loud music, which will attract the attention of many passers by.

At the start of the event, everyone involved will be given a wristband and at the end they will be able to claim a free hot drink, bacon butty along with a free cut and blow dry within the salon.

Students in blaze drama

By AMY FRENCH LATE last night a student house in the Polygon area called ‘999’ for the emergency ‘fire brigate’ service, as a Catherine wheel had been released by their neighbours. The spinning firework got lodged into a tree and then started a fire.

The students in the accomodation are a mixture of first and second years at Solent University and during the development of the fire they were all watching films together; blissfully unaware of the major fire developing only a few metres away.

Nobody is said to be injured but Rebecca, a fellow housemate is said to be a little ‘shaken up’ by the events.

‘Joe Senington’ a housemate in his second year took charge of the situation by calling the fire brigade.

The fire brigade arrived at the scene minutes after the service was dialled and put the fire. It took around 15 minutes.

STUDENT HALLS ARE OVERRUN IN THE INVASION OF THE SILVERFISH

Undergrads query lodge fees over hygiene concerns after infestation

By HARIETTE INGS STUDENTS are left worrying about the hygiene of their rooms after accommodation undergoes a mass silverfish infestation. This on-going problem has forced students to file consistent complaints against the accommodation offices, and even question the fairness of their accommodation fees.

On Thursday, 24 November, a group of students came together on the social networking site Facebook to express their concerns and fury.

“I keep getting silverfish in my bathroom and bedroom despite reporting it months ago,” writes 19-year-old Ashley Morgan, of Southampton, “It’s not hygienic and they are everywhere!” The ugly insects are commonly seen scurrying around in Bathrooms, due to the dampness. They feed on crumbs and can

lay up to a thousand eggs at a time, even in opened cereals! 20-year-old Josh Saunders, of Hamwic Student Residences, added: “Were paying £110 a week. That’s a lot of money, and our loans barely cover this.

“For the amount were charged I would expect the room to be well functioned and clean.

“I don’t want to keep my eye out every time I use the bathroom, and feel the need to check areas.”

Hamwic Student Residences replied to these comments on Facebook, stating: “All instances of Silverfish that have been reported to the Residence Manager have now been treated.”

However, they failed to comment on the time it took for this problem to be resolved.

Students are now left at ease. Let’s hope no silverfish eggs were left behind.

‘For what we are charged I expect the room to be clean’

BLIGHT: A student battles silverfish

Outcry at fluoride plans Fears grow as hard-up students turn to Crunk

By JAK BALL SHIRLEY residents from the New Dawn Advice Centre have voiced concerns about fluoride being added to the water supply. After two years of petitioning, next year it will finally be a reality.

According to the Government this scheme is to help reduce tooth decay for children; however Gwen Young, a resident, said that adding fluoride to the water isn’t going to stop parents from buying their children unhealthy food and drink.

In young children 85 per cent of absorbed fluoride is stored

in the body, compared to 60 per cent in adults. This could lead to the development of fluorosis. New Dawn member Robin Mitchell said “during my childhood asbestos was common in roofing. However because of health concerns it is no longer used, which could be the case with fluoride in 50 years.”

Councillor Raymond Mead claimed the government was enforcing ‘mass medication’ onto the people of Southampton. He also added the only way this can be stopped is if the Localism Bill is passed in the House of Lords.

By MEL WYLIE “IT IS the ultimate alcoholic energy juice and the ideal way to start a night out”, claims UK website crunkuk. com. But despite ‘Crunk Juce’ being slated by the media in the past weeks, students are still crying out for the increasingly popular drink.

The beverage has been brought to the attention of media, police and students in light of it having severe effects to behaviour and causing violence. The pint size can contains a mix of Red Bull and Hennesey brandy

to alcohol volume 12% - the same as a bottle of wine. “It only takes a few sips to feel it” claimed Holly Lake, a 20 year old fashion student, with Adele Sales, 20 and also a student stating that “it’s very cheap”.

With students skint it is no surprise they look for cheaper drinks. With Crunk becoming popular there is little option to stop the brand growing and precautions will have to be taken by suppliers, police and even student unions to ensure people drink Crunk Juce responsibly.

Splash//19

Flybe slashes 20 per cent from its passenger duty

Warning over spate of raids in Harefield

By RYAN BLAKE THERE has been a spate of burglaries in Harefield.

Police have no leads on the raids, all of which happened in the early hours. During many of the incidents, which residents slept through, goods such as TVs were taken. In one instance a pet dog disturbed an intruder.

Victims have expressed their concerns over the recent robberies.

They believe that these raids have affected their sheltered lives, and disturbed their close community.

Throughout the past month, there have been numerous reported burglaries in Harefield, Southampton.

The burglarise are said to have happened during the early hours.

There have been reported incidents in neighbouring areas.

Some residences have said that the burglars have only taken nonmeaningful items.

Mayor lights up festive display SERVICE: Flybe jets in city

City expected to benefit from ‘domino effect’ of cuts in Northern Ireland

By KATRINA ROY FLYBE, being the most popular airline in Southampton Airport have proposed a 20% air passenger duty cut. Southampton and other regional airports may experience a ‘domino effect’ following the recent tax reductions in Northern Ireland, a spokesman for Flybe said to The Telegraph.

Air passenger duty has been reduced for direct long-haul flights from Northern Ireland, in response to competition from the Irish Republic, which has an Air Travel Tax of just three euros to any destination.

The average at Southampton airport from 2009 statistics is 1.8 million passengers per year, which could rise if this decision goes in favour.

The Telegraph said ‘more airlines will launch long-haul services from Belfast’, which could

inspire Southampton to increase the distance of their flights, as well as raise the 15% of ‘C2DE’ social economic class who fly from this airport for holidays rather than continuing at 85% of ABC1 passengers flying mostly for business purposes.

In an interview with Ryan Air boss Michael O’Leary (CORRECT) from the Guardian, he said that “In 2009 passengers paid £1.9bn in APD and it is set to rise to £3.6bn by 2015.”

The BBC said that the economy loses £114m every year by air passenger deficit.

The decrease in tax will certainly increase the number of passengers to small regional airports like Southampton, and will popularise airlines such as Flybe.

A passenger waiting to board at Southampton’s local airport said “more people would be

‘Many people are hoping the APD will be scrapped’

motivated to book with Flybe from Southampton, rather than Heathrow or Gatwick”.

Many are hoping the ‘APD’ will be ‘scrapped’ as it will mean “double” taxation for UK passengers who from January will also have to pay a new Emissions Trading Scheme tax, which will cause a dent in visitor numbers.

If they decide to keep APD, it could penalize British holiday makers and decrease the numbers of over-sea visitors in regional cities.

Celebrate Christmas with Plans for flood defence a classic slice of Broadway

By AMY FRENCH WITH Christmas on the way, why not get in that festive mood and look forward to seeing the most joyful musical, direct from Broadway!

‘The White Christmas Musical’ will be held at the ‘Mayflower Theatre’ ‘Irving Berlin’s White Christmas’ has returned to Southampton yet again after breaking box office records at The Lowry, Salford Quays and the Sunderland Empire!

Once you see it, you’ll be on countdown for Christmas, as this

epic musical will leave you in that uplifting Christmas swing!

Crammed with classic songs such as Blue Skies, How Deep is the Ocean, Happy Holiday, Sisters and of course the famous White Christmas.

The musical is based solely on two friends putting a show together in the ‘Vermont inn’, and meeting the most wonderful people in the process.

With a cast of over thirty and a 17 piece orchestra, this heartwarming musical promises to be a merry experience for the entire family.

By MEL WYLIE FLOOD and erosion due to severe climate change will one day put the coastal city of Southampton at a huge and costly risk.

The Southampton coastal flood and erosion risk management strategy is being developed to protect the city which currently has a population of over 230,000 people. It has been predicted that there will be a rise in sea levels of approximately one metre along the city’s coastline by 2100. Currently dock and quay walls protect the majority of the coast but there

is a risk of flooding in the future.

Raised defences will need to be implemented; however this could be a challenge in such a busy city.

There are no floodwalls at present and without flood defences it is estimated that £1.1 billion worth of damage will be caused over the next century.

The strategy has been developed on behalf of the city council by URS Scott Wilson, a company providing engineering, construction and technical services. The work is currently scheduled to begin in 2015.

By RYAN BLAKE THE city’s mayor turned on the Christmas lights at the Marlands shopping centre.

The occasion was also sprinkled with Christmas spirit as Father Christmas and his merry elves helped him hand out presents to all the children, as well as Father Christmas, the mayor was also joined by the cast of the recent theatre production of “The Borrowers”.

The mayor hoped that this Christmas season will be a joyous occasion for everyone living in the city and its surrounding areas.

When asking people what they thought of the Christmas lights this year, Chris Colsen a 47 years old, Electrician from Sholing said: “This year the lights were far more interesting then last year. I think Santa coming gave it a more Christmassy feel and it’s great for the kids”.

Five in assault at corner shop

By HARIETTE INGS FIVE male youths were involved in an assault outside local corner shop Al Fresco, Bargate, Southampton.

Ben Leclerc, 29, manager of Al Fresco, claims one youth had severe facial injuries after having a “golf ball hurled to his face”.

Having had the assault captured on CCTV footage, the concerned shop manager called the police to investigate the incident further.

However, when the Police arrived the following afternoon, Ben felt they “acted slowly”.

This apparent neglect for community safety raises concerns for many locals; “since the shop has been running I have never heard of an assault before”, said Ben, agreeing that this type of incident is “rare” around Bargate. No further information has been given, and the investigation remains underway.

Splash

Sport

HAMMERS HAMMERED

By JESSICA THORNTON-MARGETTS SAINTS extended their winning streak over second-placed West Ham to move five points clear at the top of the table.

On-loan defender Jos Hooiveld’s header on the stroke of half time was enough to end the Hammers’ unbeaten away record in the league, as the hosts completed a

17th successive win in all competitions at the St.Marys stadium. A record home crowd of 32,152 watched as their side edged closer to premier league promotion, after a last minute scare when West Ham’s Mark Noble hit the post with a freekick, late on in the game.

Saints fan Mike Evans said: “It’s another great result.”

WHITEWASH

Exeter 3rds slam sorry Solent 2nds

12-0

IMAGES: Harry Lund

STRUGGLE: Solent’s Chris Brown on the back foot

EFFORT: Jamie Makie serves

By GLENN NOBLE EXETER captain Nico Robinson inspired his team to whitewash Solent 12-0, losing only one game from four sets in the BUCS Western 2a league game at the David Lloyd Centre on Wednesday.

Solent could only muster one game in the two double matches before Exeter completed the victory winning all four single games with only Jake Mackie putting us any resistance in his first set as he lost to Greg Carey 3-6 1-6.

The result leaves Solent rock bottom of the table looking for their first league win of the season while Exeter climb to second.

It was the excellent serving of the Exeter players which caused the major problems for Solent, who themselves struggled to apply any

pressure with serves of their own and this reflected in the scores as Exeter continuously broke the serve.

The Doubles started proceedings, with Captain Carl Kenward not being able to play it was James Sykes who stepped in for the day, he paired with Jamie Makie to face Exeter’s Nico Robinson and Chris Wood.

Solent may have been without their captain but it was the brilliance of the Exeter pair which dominated the game running out 0-6 0-6 with Solent failing to find any rhythm.

The second doubles followed in similar fashion. Solent’s Teodor Petrov and Chris Brown paired up against Greg Caney and Felix Browne who won 1-6 0-6. It was a pairing that struggled to combine and too often missed easy shots as well as gifting Exeter easy winners. It

was the same story in the four single matches. The first game between the two captains came close to being abandoned when Sykes smashed his racket before the Exeter captain lent Sykes one of his. However Sykes’ efforts were in vain as he could not match the quality of Robinson who won 1-6 0-6.

Makie then took on Carey in a well competed first set as he came close losing 3-6. However Makie couldn’t put Carey under the same pressure in the second set as he lost 1-6.

In the last two games the strength of the Exeter side really showed as Brown lost to Wood 0-6 2-6 while Petrov lost to Browne 2-6 0-6.

With Southampton Solent 1st also losing 0-12 to Bournemouth 2nd it means Exeter move above Solent 1st into second.