Solent Splash Magazine

Solent

Splash Wednesday March 16, 2011

Southampton’s community newspaper

Ayumi tells of her heartache at Japanese quake horror

THE SECONDS ARE ON THE

OFFENSIVE TEAM SEE RED AS THEY SLUMP TO A FOUL-TEMPERED DRUBBING: p15

Industry wowed at launch of uni’s Creatives agency IN DEMAND Delighted students back the launch of the agency

By NATHAN BELLOWS

A MAJOR earthquake measuring 8.9 on the Richter scale struck Japan early Friday afternoon.

It hit at 14:47 local time at an estimated depth of 24km.

The quake also triggered a tsunami, which has swamped the country and threatens many of the neighbouring countries in the Pacific as well as Alaska and South America.

A number of powerful aftershocks since the initial quake have further shaken Japan.

At the time of writing, the official death toll has reached 977, though this is expected to increase. 88,000 people have been report-

WRECKED Devastation in Tokyo ed missing by the official Kyodo news agency. Japanese police have reportedly found hundreds of bodies near the city of Sendai.

The BBC’s live feed from Japanese TV shows a mammoth torrent of water tearing across the land, sweeping away everything in its path.

Meanwhile, four workers have been injured at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant after an explosion, which now faces the possibility of a meltdown. The Japanese government has declared a state of emergency.

The Queen has said she is “saddened” by the tragedy: “Our prayers and thoughts are with everyone who has been affected by the dreadful disaster.”

Ayumi Okada, Vice President of student support at Solent University, spoke to us on her thoughts about the catastrophic events.

“Apparently this one is the biggest in the last 140 years, I’m guessing the shock was still felt in Tokyo. I have been checking a Japanese social networking site called Mixy so all the friends that I’ll be in touch with are all on here, so I’m trying to look at all the status updates.” But she is worried about her parents in Tokyo.

“Unfortunately because of the time difference, I can’t even call them. I came to Southampton seven years ago to study and I go been home when I can but I’m working uTurn to Page 5

SOLENT’S GOT

TALENT

By SUSA DICKERSON

SOUTHAMPTON Solent is a university in full development and on Thursday, March 10th, ‘Solent Creatives, a facet of that development, was officially opened by Southampton Solent University Vice-Chancellor, Van Gore and Kieron Matthews, Director of The Digital-Consultancy.

An exciting new venture, led by Head of School of Writing and Communications, Suzanne Dixon, Solent Creatives aims to prepare students for the

increasingly self-employed, entrepreneurial nature of working in the creative sector.

The agency will enhance the employability of students, by linking them with local businesses and the wider community. Suzanne commented: “Southampton Solent University is committed to engaging with and supporting local businesses and building links between students and the community. This venture will give local enterprises affordable access to media expertise that could uTurn to Page 3

SCHEME LEADER Suzanne Dixon

02//Splash

NEW VOTE FOLLOWING RECORD 60-HOUR WALKOUT

MEET THE TEAM

ACTION Hospital faces disruption

EDITOR Brodie Robertson

NEWS EDITOR Naomi Wilson

NEWS EDITOR Linzi Radwell

Hospital cleaners to continue strikes

By LEANNE DREW and AMY STUDLEY STRIKING hospital cleaners have announced further action for next week.

Currently hundreds of cleaners are taking part in a 60-hour walkout, their longest yet over their longrunning dispute over pay with hospital bosses.

This will now be followed by a further 60-hour strike next week, ending at 6pm on March 16.

It is the fourth time the cleaners have taken action, over what they believe is the failure of Southampton University Hospitals Trust to pay the agreed NHS rates to cleaning staff despite being

funded to do so by Government for the past four years.

The trust has introduced sick pay, increased basic pay rates and said it had invested more than £1m over three years to do this. However no agreement can be reached on the union’s demands for sick pay to be backdated to 2006.

Natasha Watts, 25, a student at Southampton University said: “I don’t blame them for striking.

Only too often are the lower paid being treated like dirt and everyone expects them to take it.”

Since the last ten-hour protest at the end January involving 250 union members, both sides have

KIDS’ CARDIAC CENTRE FACES CUTS THE children’s cardiac centre at Southampton General hospital is facing possible cuts to the services currently provided.

The centre at Southampton was recently ranked as the highest quality care outside London, and second best in the country overall. However, the recent review of centres across England has asked the public to consider the future of the cardiac centre.

The National Safe and Sustainable review of children’s heart surgery has come to the conclusion that fewer, larger, specialist heart centres should be developed across England.

Southampton has only featured in one of four options.

If one of the other options is put forward the specialist heart care currently available at Southampton general hospital will no longer be on offer. Consultant paediatric cardiologist

Dr James Gnanapragasam: “We believe we are the best option, but we need to work together and make sure that this unit is not lost.

The public consultation began on the 28th February and closes on the 1st July 2011. A number of parents of children previously treated at Southampton’s unit have been fighting in support of keeping the cardiac centre as it is.

The number of children the cardiac centre treats and the level of care it provides are good enough reasons to keep it going, and a number of people have expressed their surprise at the proposed plans.

Mark Hackett, chief executive for SUHT said he was: “Most surprised that Southampton is not included in more of the options for consultation.”

attended negotiating meetings in attempts to solve the matter but have yet to be successful.

The Union said that they are now getting more organised. Rotas for the picketing, a barbeque and other amenities are now organised by the workers.

They want to keep everyone involved and everyone has a role to play.

Six of the workers have demanded a meeting with the Trust Chief Executive Mark Hackett, the meeting will take place on Wednesday. The workers who want to meet with him will put forward the case for the low paid to him.

Strike on the Streets Uproar over cut wages has also broken out on the street, as council cleaners and bin men also plan to strike in protest.

Southampton City Council have tightened money spent on the pay for bin collectors, street cleaners and park rangers in order to safe guard up to 400 other council jobs in the next two years.

As the cuts go ahead, it could see such waste management services grind to halt in the city centre, a consequence that would naturally have a large impact on the local public. This has lead union members to describe the walk out as the most serious industrial action ever seen in the city.

Considering the strike, Southampton Solent University students living in Southampton have voiced their concerns at the lack of waste disposal.

“I think it’s selfish because it is the public that will have to deal with the repercussions,” said 19-year-old Gemma Clapp. She added: “Plus it’s unsightly and unhygienic to have rubbish lying around.”

Recognising the reason for outcry, student Becca Ferne from Exeter said: “I think it’s pretty unfair considering it’s hardly a pleasant job to do, they seem to do it well and its unacceptable that the

EVENTS EDITOR Charlotte Webb

FEATURES EDITOR Stacey Tonks

SPORTS EDITOR Harry Smith

MUSIC EDITOR Gary Peters CONTRIBUTORS: Marcus Almitage Samuel Houghton James Lyons Nathan Bellows Gemma Clapp Maizie Wilson Sophie Westrope Lauren Thackeray Alec Malloy Navid Humphries Leanne Drew Tom Veitch Matt Cotton Mara Petrescu Hannah Cameron Sarah Wall Jemma Bourne Charlotte May

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A soaring tribute LAST year the Spitfire Tribute Foun dation organised a national competition to design a lasting tribu te to the Spitfire. In three weeks the Trust received more than 300 entri es.

The foundation chose a concept by reno wned Australian Architect and Spitfire enthusiast Nick Hancock, who will be the passenger in the Grace 2-seater Spitfire.

Fundraising is now underway to help raise the £2m needed for Nick Hancock’s design for a national land Spitfire. The monument will sit on land mark to commemorate the besid alongside the state-of-the-art £19m Ocea e the Trafalgar dry dock n Terminal.

GRAVE CONCERNS Steve

Steve’s bone to pick about homelessness SKELETON Skinny Steve is becoming somewhat of a local icon as he appears in parks and streets around Southampton.

Media Communication student Joe Miller is using the bony model to raise awareness of the problem of homelessness in the city, and to send out the serious message that people living on the streets cannot be ignored.

As Skinny Steve appears in more places, he has been noticed. Steve even has a Facebook page where followers can catch up with where he has been.

Working with the Society of St James charity, Miller hopes to make people think about life on the streets.

Calls for last orders at bar RESIDENTS in the Lymington area of the New Forest are calling for the closure of a noisy restaurant and bar.

Rowdy customers and traffic problems at Fine Foods and Wine 4 Sail have been causing disturbance for locals in the area, say locals.

The business has allegedly been operating under council consent for a café, and so does not have the permission to operate as a bar. Though an application to retain the bar has now been forwarded to the council, letters of complaint from residents has seen the application rejected.

Fine Foods and Wine 4 Sail have appealed against the decision.

Water way to educate

WATER workshops, to help school children understand where Southampton’s water supply comes from, are being held in primary schools across the city.

Southern water, World Wildlife Fund (WWF) and Southampton Football Club have teamed up to involve youngsters in the campaign.

The Mayor of Southampton, Councilor Carol Cunio, and Lee Barnard launched the campaign at Western Park Junior School in Woolston on Tuesday.

FLYING HIGH The winning entry

SPITFIRE SPECTACULAR MARKS MAIDEN FLIGHT Hundreds see aerial display for 75th anniversary

By GARY PETERS A SPITFIRE spectacular came to Southampton to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the first ever flight of the Spitfire.

Southampton is considered the birthplace of the iconic aircraft as it was originally designed by resident Reginald Mitchell, and the prototype (K5054) was first flown from the city’s airport in 1936.

Following this maiden flight, over 22,500 Spitfires were built and they helped to defend Britain during historic conflicts such as The Battle of Britain against the German Luftwaffe.

People flocked to view the commemorative flight along the River Itchen, Mayflower Park, Weston Shore, and Victoria Country Park.

On the 5th March, 75 years to the day, the

famous ‘Grace Spitfire’ flew over Southampton Water to commemorate this historical anniversary.

The pilot, Carolyn Grace, is the world’s only female Spitfire pilot.

The event was organised

by Southampton City Council and The Spitfire Tribute Foundation, in association with Solent Sky Museum, and Southampton Airport.

Southampton City Councillor John Hannides, Chairman of the Spitfire Tribute Foundation, said: “It is a true honour to be a part of such an historical occasion.

R.J Mitchell designed the aircraft while working in Southampton, and we as a city

should be incredibly proud of the role the Spitfire has played in our country’s history.”

Dave Lees, Managing Director of Southampton Airport, commented: “Southampton Airport has a long and proud history of being at the forefront of aviation innovation over the last 101 years. The airport is especially proud to be the site of the very first ever flight of such an iconic and important aircraft in British history. The famous Grace Spitfire re-enacting the first flight is a fitting tribute to this remarkable aircraft, and all who were involved with its design, manufacture and flight.”

The city should be proud of its role

CREATIVES AGENCY BRINGS STUDENTS AND INDUSTRY TOGETHER uFrom Page 1

transform their business.” At the launch, Vice-Chancellor Van Gore thanked Suzanne Dixon for getting the project up and running. Kieron Matthews, Director of The Digital-Consultancy earned some laughs, taking a picture of the crowd and posting it straight to twitter.

Staff and students were also on hand to demonstrate the huge range of skills on offer in the Millais building.

Solent Creatives offers unrivalled access to the university’s acclaimed media faculty (FMAS). Businesses can tap

into one-off specialist help and students are skills-matched to clients.

Ann Hales, Project Manager for Business Southampton, said: “Solent Creatives is an amazing opportunity for our students. In the increasingly competitive job market, it’s becoming more apparent students need to have real work experience. We had a student design a logo for ‘Dance Off Southampton,’ a new secondary schools dance competition and he fitted the bill perfectly. We can’t wait to work with other students.”

For students, Solent Creatives answers the ‘Catch 22’ situation of how to

get a job without experience, when you need experience to get a job. The agency matches businesses looking for media expertise, to the skills of registered students. Once a student’s initial assignment is complete, they will be free to negotiate a suitable fee for further work.

The idea is to build up a portfolio of commercial assignments and testimonials. This is a student’s evidence that they have done far more than a few weeks’ low-level work experience. Visit solentcreatives.org, Facebook them on SSU Solent Creatives or Twitter on SSU Creatives or Brightest Talent.

BUZZ Staff, students and industry reps at launch

04//Splash

PASSENGERS RAIL AGAINST TRAIN FIRM AS THE RATES RISE HITS POCKETS

VAT’s so unfare PETROL HIKE FUELLING IRE THE pockets of Hampshire drivers have been hit hard this week as road users struggle to come to terms with the ever rising fuel costs.

This week motorists saw petrol prices hit a staggering 141.9p in selected garages. The cost shows no sign of falling as the riot in the Middle East continues to cause rocketing oil prices. “ I had the shock of my life when I saw how much I was paying for fuel, the cost of petrol is becoming outrageous.” says mum of three Linda Evans.

The UK has seen an average of a 10% rise in oil prices since the uproar in Libya, one of the major oil exporters, however prices are expected to continue to rise as Gaddafi threatens to enforce a “no fly” zone over the country.

Government minister Alan Duncan shocked the nation this week with claims that that prices could reach £4 a litre. This has outraged some drivers considering that a year ago it cost an average of £10 less per tank. “ If prices rise to that ridiculous amount I don’t see how anyone will be able to afford to drive, I certainly wont.” says car owner Steve Penson.

If prices do rise to £4 a litre it would make it impossible for small businesses and families to run a vehicle. The country will have problems in the way it operates as people have relied on fuel for so long and other means of transport have become second nature. It would be a huge inconvenience as I use a car for work and social and it would limit me in my day to day life due to the massive expense.” says building surveyor Jake Alexander.

By CHARLOTTE MAY ONE regular passenger of South West Train thinks that train fare prices are ridiculously priced after the VAT rise.

Mr. Thompson, 40 from Shirley, Southampton travels regularly by trains from Southampton Central station to Basingstoke.

Since the VAT rise in January 2011, train fares have become their highest yet. And it looks like they could increase even more over the next year.

Mr. Thompson says: “I always buy a season ticket from Southampton to Basingstoke. It used to cost around £53 per week but now I’m paying

STEAMING Sharp increases in train fares have sparked commuter fury

£62 for 7 days worth of travelling by train. I can’t get a railcard as I’m not eligible for one.

I would travel by car but from Southampton to Basingstoke, I would need to leave around 7 in the morning for a 9am start at work.”

Mr. Thompson thinks this rise in train fares has only made travelling by car worse. This would cause longer delays on the roads due to high amounts of traffic and petrol prices being at their highest.

Some people have to travel further which makes travelling by car difficult and expensive.

Travelling by train takes the stress off travellers if they have to travel a long distance.

“I have always liked travelling by train because it takes the stress of travelling to work. If I was working in London I would want to travel by train because it will save money on petrol and stop me getting stressed over traffic jams.

Mr. Thompson thought that travelling by train was a good way of saving the planet from global warming. But increases in the train fares will make people want to travel by car to save money.

It has been predicted that over the next four years train fares will increase up to 40%. For regular commuters of trains at the moment, they should expect their fares to increase largely over the next year.

The train takes out the stress of travel

VITAL SERVICE Traveling by train is the main and best option for many commuters

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‘I CAN’T EVEN CALL THEM.. I JUST IMAGINE THE WORST’

DEVASTATION How the impact of the quake in Japan is spreading across the globe

uFrom Page 1 full time now. I can’t just go home. I’ve been nervous all day.” She fears the media is exaggerating the damage too.

“Because I’m not there, all I have to believe is what the media is showing me. It’s definitely not helping me to calm down because in my mind I just imagine the worst.”

Miyuki Morioka, head of the Southampton University Japanese Society is hopeful Japan will recover in the near future.

“When the Kobe earthquake happened maybe 20 years ago, it was a very powerful earthquake

uAgony as wait for news on loved ones goes on uQuake confirmed as 5th largest ever recorded but Japan restored itself very quickly, at an incredible rate actually. So I would expect Japan to be restored in only a couple of years or so.”

The news of the disaster has been widely reported by the major news websites, across tv,

radio, newspapers and online. The BBC News website is featuring a live stream from their 24-hour televised service, live twitter feeds and wave maps showing the tsunami’s progress.

Similarly, Sky News features a live twitter feed

and videos highlighting key points, as well as an interactive “tsunami hotspot” map showing how the tsunami is affecting various countries around the Ring Of Fire, a large area of the Pacific Rim prone to earth quakes and volcanic eruptions.

COUNCIL URGES CITY TO MAKE THE CENSUS COUNT SOUTHAMPTON City Council are rallying together as many residents as possible to fill in the census, in order to back their “Making it Count” campaign.

Residents throughout Southampton are now receiving the census, but if not enough forms are filled in the council and city will lose out on millions of pounds from funding.

Every census form completed and returned is worth at least £432 per person for Southampton

City Council and the city. Councillor Royston Smith, Leader of Southampton City Council (pictured right), said: “Due to a well below average census return rate of just 89 per cent in 2001, the city went on to lose millions of pounds of funding - money which could have been spent on vital services such as education, caring for the elderly and protecting our children.

“It is a travesty that Southampton continues to miss out on the money it is entitled to. If we could

achieve a higher census return rate in 2011, it is possible that we could make up a big chunk of the council deficit over the next three years.

In 2001, at least 25,645 people did not fill in the census. In 2011 with a similar census return rate the city would stand to lose up to £68million over the next ten years.”

Contact the Office of national Statistics on 0300 0201 101. Or for more information visit our census web pages.

CASH ALERT Royston Smith

06//Splash

Are you satisfied?

PUBLICITY STUNT: Jesus visits Solent

This is the question the Christian Union brought to Southampton Solent last week, as they hosted a series of events

By Stacey Tonks

T

HOSE on campus couldn’t miss them as not only did they walk around with bright red ‘Satisfied’ hoodies, they did a series of publicity stunts which included Jesus and His disciples walking around handing out flyers and shouting out quotes from the Bible.

Each year the CU has an opportunity to host a week of events.

Former CU president and third year student Samuel Hailes said: “We do events, first of all to raise the profile of the CU on campus, to let people know it’s there. Secondly, because as a CU we feel we have things to offer to the wider university,” Sam explained. “Often people ask us why we believe what we do, so events week is a good time to answer those questions. We can put on events which are not only fun but make people think as well.”

They certainly made people think this year in a moving performance of Mark’s Gospel in a play called, ‘Mark’s Drama.’

The drama was performed by 15 people and had no costumes and no props. This was effective in allowing the audience to focus on the message.

The performance was done in a theatre of the round style, so the actors were weaving in and out of the audience as well as encouraging the audience to participate The drama was full of

What satisfies the students of Southampton?

The Christian Union believe that Jesus satisfies them. Does anyone else in the University agree with them, or do they find satisfaction in other things?

The Solent Splash went to the corridors of Southampton Solent to ask people the question.

Here’s what we found out...

“Shopping satisfies me; unless I’m poor, then it depresses me,” answered Fashion and

laughs, with the disciples bringing in the comedy throughout.

The focus was at the end of Jesus’ life, allowing the audience to follow Jesus through His last days. Of course, we all knew

REACHING OUT: Christian Union offered free toasties to students

Photography student Amanda Corless.

Whilst Amanda finds satisfaction in shopping, many others expressed how they are satisfied by various material goods. Lizzy Quick, Psychology, said: “Food and money,” and her friend, PR and Com student Abbie Lodge agreed.

It seemed food was a really satisfying product.

When asked the question, Linzi Radwell laughed and exclaimed, “Oh, chocolate,” whilst Business student Tim Goggins said: “Football and alcohol.”

Another common answer was the love friends and family provide. Editor of the Solent Splash and Magazine Journalist, Brodie Robertson said: “Love in general – friendship and family.” Sarah Wall, Magazine Journalis, gave a similar answer: “God and my friends and family – relationships basically cover all that. They are most important above money and other things.”

Illustration student Sally Pearce said: “My friends who make me smile and who I know will do their best to cheer me up when I’m not

how it was going to end but the drama left the audience moved and brought to silence as Jesus was pinned to the cross. Even though they weren’t professional actors, the students did a great job. Samuel Hailes delivered the role of Jesus in a bold and respectful way.

Throughout the week, the Christian Union gave away free toasties and free donuts in the Wifi lounge. This proved to be very popular as students gathered to collect their freebies with one condition – to ask a question about Christianity, God or life.

Other events included a quiz night at the Slug and Lettuce, which proved to be a barrel of laughs, with rounds including the driving theory test, which left those who could drive ashamed with their scores. In the middle of the quiz, a Christian Union worker did a brief 10 minute talk on Christianity, again asking the question “are you satisfied?” The same format happened on Friday night, where instead of the quiz, the Christian Union hosted a free meal for everyone.

The week certainly made people aware of the Christian Union, whether they enjoyed the free give-a-ways, attended an event, or merely saw Jesus walk past them in the library. Did people leave the week satisfied though? At the end of the day, it’s a good question, what does satisfy us?

smiling.” Sally added: “Also creating illustration and looking at it and thinking ‘Wow, I did that!’”

She wasn’t the only one who found satisfaction in

The only thing that satisfies me is living in the moment doing things related to her course. “A nice chilly day listening to music and creating s t u f f for my scrap book,” said Lizzy Riley,

Fashion and Promotion. Tom Simpkins, Film Production, responded: “Meeting Sir Alan Parker, a director who inspired me to get into the film industry.”

“Getting my law assignment done,” Emma Parsons, Multi Media Journalism, said laughing.

Often satisfaction does come from either something you enjoy or the relief of finishing something you started. In the corridors of Southampton Solent though, we did find some students who found their satisfaction in faith.

“Playing my guitar, spending time with my girlfriend and listening to music,” said Ashleigh Ubsdell, Music Production, before stating that “Jesus is my ultimate satisfaction.” Katie Holding, Psychology added: “I agree God satisfies me.”

Psychology student, Catherine Tilt simply said: “Jesus, He is the answer to everything.”

Rob Collins, TV Production, had quite an insightful answer. He said: “The only thing that truly satisfies my mind is living in the moment.”

WHO ARE YOU REALLY?

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S

O HOW is it easier for us than generations past, you ask? The answer is quite simple really: the internet. The internet grows in size every single day, providing you with more opportunities to find out anything you wish to know - including information about your ancestors. The key is to know where to look, which is why Bitterne Library offer a service every Monday evening to provide you with the information you need to start building your family tree.

Using resources such as church or parish records, birth certificates, death certificates, marriage certificates and even street records, combined with the internet, the library provides you with everything you require.

Ann Carnell is the brains behind this event. Along with her sister, Sheila Henry, Ann formed the group after retiring in September 2010.

At her previous job, Ann often helped colleagues discover their family trees and was told to become a professional. Her own family tree now holds at least 5000 long-lost relatives, so who better to help others find theirs?

“I find family history fascinating, so when I retired I approached the library about starting up a family history group. Thankfully they were really enthusiastic and the group was formed,” Ann said. “My sister, Sheila, also decided to help, which is lucky because her family tree is much larger than mine at the moment!”

The group began as a taster session with 15 people. What was a service that provided lessons has now turned into a drop-in centre offering help and advice as and when it is needed.

“People wanted to come for different things,” Ann explained. “Some had already completed a lot of their family tree, but were stuck on one or two specific areas. Others, however, were just starting up, so obviously needed more time and help.”

On average, 10 people turn up each week, asking for guidance to find long-lost relatives. These same people may return again the following week, or carry on on their own after Ann and Sheila had pointed them in the right direction.

Ann admitted that she often gets so caught up helping people find their family history that often she takes things home with her to work on.

“I’m retired now, so I do my best to help out those with less time than myself,” she said.

So has anyone yet found that they are related to fame?

“One couple are convinced that they have found connections to royalty in their family tree, but I’m not so sure. The problem is, you have to be really rigorous when figuring out if you have found the right person. If you get one person wrong, your whole tree changes.

“Of course, people are often inclined to believe that they have to be related to someone of significance. When this happens, you can’t change their mind,” Ann laughed.

Everyone is a little curious about their family history. Questions such as who your ancestors were and where they were from are often difficult to answer unless you have a great-grandparent with an extensive memory. However, nowadays it is easier than ever to find out about your family’s past, and you might even discover something about yourself that you never knew before: you could be part-Italian or French, and not even know it.

FOUND: Emily Wardell, Ann’s relative

START BUILDING YOUR FAMILY TREE TODAY! n www.ancestry.co.uk holds census information from 1841 to 1901 including birth, death and marriage indexes. n www.familyrelatives.com is a fast growing website which contains information about relatives’ occupations, from trade directories to records of doctors and midwives. n www.gwgc.org is a website which holds records of people in the military who died during the two World Wars. n www.familysearch.org is a Mormon website which is free to use and gives the user access to a worldwide list of births and marriages and other data. n www.cyndislist.com is a very useful free website which lists a large number of genealogy websites worldwide. n www.thegenealogist.co.uk is similar to Find my Past and Ancestry with a number of Parish records and a very wide coverage of data.

They claim to have records dating from 1127 to 2005!

MODEL: Fan chart of Gemma Clap

08//Splash

WOOLSTON, BITTERNE PARK, BEVOIS VALLEY, SOUTHAMPTON CAPTION In here

Tough times ahead for traders

With the recession making it more difficult to get people to reach into their pockets, stores in Southampton are feeling the strain. Shops in Bargate shopping centre have seen a rapid decrease in sales in the last 12 months.

A 40% drop in sales has hit living Oasis bookshop, located in Bargate.

Manager Lee Swartz said that the book trade has been hit particularly hard. He said: “We have experienced a diabolical start to the year.” He also added that the Internet was “wiping us out”.

Quicksilver and Roxy stores have already been forced to close, leaving the Bargate centre almost empty. Many stores are now struggling with the recent development of the city, as shoppers being attracted to more mainstream stores.

Underground Clothing, which specializes in alternative styles, has struggled to attract new customers.

Tom, a sales assistant, said: “Business has significantly decreased in the past 6 months which means we are having to rely on loyal customers to keep us going.”

Resorting to promotion tactics has become a regular occurrence for stores in Bargate, with underground clothing using signage to attract new customers.

However, Tom remains upbeat the sales will pick up with stores opening in Poole and Bournemouth.

Viv, from the Alternate store reported the same problems with lack of sales. She said: “The shop needs refurbishments to attract more customers.” The general consensus remains that more tough times lie ahead.

Time to drink up

Woolston on the up?

LAST ORDERS? Terry is finding times hard

BY NAOMI WILSON For years The Dorchester Arms has been the cosy local for many in the Bevois Valley, and landlord Terry Lennon has become somewhat of a local legend as a result.

But now, after 37 years behind the pump, he will be pulling his last pints as he prepares to close in the upcoming months.

However, Terry insists it feels good to be moving on as it will give him and his wife the long awaited retirement they have certainly earned.

Originally from County Longford, the couple came to Southampton to work in local business in 1970. Though it was under different management at the time, they soon made The Dorchester Arms their own local and automatically developed a heart for the thriving and lively pub.

It was when word came of the landlord’s plans to leave that Terry asked if there was a chance of him owning the business. Within a matter of days he was serving his first customers as the new owner.

Since then, The Arms has created some great memories for the couple.

“I used to open the doors at six in the evening,” he recalled, “and I would have maybe 60 people waiting outside, and they would all drink up to 20

pints each.”

He added: “That’s why I think it’s funny when people talk about binge drinking today!”

The Dorchester Arms has also been a favourite place for students over the years.

“We would have been packed wall to wall with students and we had student bands every night of the week,” he said. “It was the best student pub in town.”

A vivid memory for Terry was during a major European football match. The pub was filled with people crowded around a small television set to watch the game- when a group of students turned up with their own massive TV. With the aid of a rope and ladder, they managed to haul it up onto a roof in the beer garden, where they enjoyed the match until 2am.

With more franchised pubs moving to Southampton, Terry noticed a significant change to the drinking scene and to the clientele of his

own pub.

“I knew the town before Wetherspoon’s,” he said.

“They’re different. They’re modern- designed for the young person.”

He believes changes in the population of Southampton have also left customer numbers to dwindle. When Terry first opened in 1974 the city was mostly made up of English and Irish working class which made for a thriving pub culture.

Today, however, with a more ethnically mixed society and larger Muslim community he feels the Arms has suffered.

With the changing population and the onset of difficult trading times, Terry has been unable to compete with other public houses.

It is obvious though, that as he locks up for the final time, he will be closing the doors of a local legacy with 37 years’ worth of great stories and memories.

It was the best student pub in town

The day the Vosper Thornycraft moved, Woolston started to steadily decline.

The Vosper Thornycraft (VT) traded for over 100 years with over 7,000 employers, but since its relocation to Poutsmouth six years ago, the site where it once stood still remains desolate.

Since the move, trade has been dismal in Woolston. The town has the highest percentage of empty shops compared to any other district and unemployment is very high.

Wandering around Woolston the streets are bare and the people are few.

There are more empty shops than you can count on your fingers. Woolston is in a desperate need of restoration, but hope lies within new plans for the old VT site. In 2003, the South East Development Agency (SEEDA) purchased the land from Vosper Thornycroft with a great vision, calling the land ‘Centenary Quay’.

The SEEDA plan to build 1620 homes, will create up to 1000 permanent jobs and add restaurants, cafes and shops to the area.

Councillor Warwick Payne said: “It was damaging for Woolston’s economy for the VT site to lie vacant for so long.

We need something there that makes a positive contribution to our community and helps it to thrive.”

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SOLENT SPLASH ECONOMY SPECIAL: THE RECESSION AND LOCAL BUSINESS

SHUT UP SHOP: Empty premises

BY GEMMA CLAPP

t ’ n s i t s u j It business . . . l a u s u as

The closure of several key businesses in Bitterne Park has caused the town to lose its sense of community, shop owners believe.

During the past decade, the area has lost some of its most important shops – such as the Post Office and Chapys greengrocers. In their places are at least five empty shops with boarded-up windows, making Bitterne park look more like a ghost-town than the hub of activity it once was.

Gary Wright, of Garson’s Quality Meats, reckons that there are a host of reasons why the area is slowly diminishing.

“The recession has really hit us hard here and, combined with the high rent, this means that businesses can’t afford to stay open. New businesses can’t afford to move into the area either because of this,” he said.

A common thought is that supermarkets are to blame for the closure of smaller businesses, not just in Bitterne Park but country-wide. However, Mr Wright feels that this is not the case.

“People blame the supermarkets but they have been around for a long time and we have survived alongside them until now,” he said.

It has also been confirmed that at least two more shops are set to close down within the next year – Paradise Tans and Aqua Massage and Something Nice.

Julie Shears, owner of Something Nice, has only one year left on her lease, and won’t be renewing it.

“It would be financial suicide to extend my lease.

There’s nothing for people to come to the Triangle for anymore, so there’s a decline in passing trade,” she said.

This decline has been blamed on the council’s decision to extend the free on-road parking from 30 minutes to an hour-meaning there is less of an opportunity for passers-by to park while doing a quick shop in the bakery or butchers.

However, Mrs Shears reckons some shop owners have themselves to blame for the lack of parking.

“I see a lot of shop owners parking outside their shops, which leaves less room for customers to park. They only move their cars if they see a traffic warden coming, so sometimes their cars are parked all day,” she said.

Local councilor Peter Baillie agrees that

they have themselves to blame, although for a different reason.

“The parking issue is always difficult but I had the parking increased from 30 minutes to an hour because the traders asked for it. They felt people needed longer to shop. If they want it reduced to 30 minutes again, then I will certainly look at that,” he said.

Other shop owners have spoken out at their disappointment. Alphabet Pet Supplies has been trading in the area for 34 years. During this time they have seen a dramatic decline in trade in the area.

“We used to sell pets as well as all of the food and toys we supply now. We had 50 tanks of fish and 20 cages of other animals, but these days we only have three tanks. But shopping patterns change, and the recession has been a struggle,” the owner said, before adding that the closure of important shops hasn’t helped the community.

In order to keep the business running, Alphabet has had to expand to provide other services, such as dry cleaning.

“You have to do everything you can to stay open,” he said.

It’s financial suicide

CAPTION Goes in here

LETTE IT BE

10//Splash

While visiting Solent Uni for International Women’s Day, the queen of the cliterati shared her thoughts - and urged women everywhere to learn to stand on their own two stilletoes...

bra and burnt her brain”. When asked if we really need to still celebrate IWD, Kathy talks figures, stating how we women make up over 50% of the workface yet still do 99% of the household chores. She makes it clear that there is still a lot to fight for equality of the sexes.

Having grown up in a very sexist surfer environment in Sydney, Lette talks about the way she and her female friends were treated all because of their gender.

She tells an anecdote about them being made to sunbathe with papercut outs of the surfer boys’ names on their stomachs, saying if she ever gets skin cancer she’ll have a “melanoma named Bruce”.

Never wait to be rescued, girls

L

T

ETTE even gives words of advice to the females in the audience saying “Never wait to be rescued, girls. You need to learn to stand on your own two stilettos.”

The question-answer session is turned to the audience and she speaks politely and directly to the audience member as if she’s known them for years: she is the proverbial Mother Hen of the ‘Cliterati’.

Kathy tells of how society is improving when it comes to equality of the sexes, but at an incredibly glacial pace. Lette really has a strong presence and influences the audience so much that even the men begin to agree with her ideas.

The session ended with a lengthy round of applause bursting from the audience, Lette clearly made an impact.

Her words inspired the audience, and perhaps even converted some, and it’s plain to see that everyone attending was happy to be there.

The cream tea that followed the interview was a success also, with several rushing to gorge on the cute finger sandwiches and cream cakes laid out.

Kathy Lette took to her book signing post and, all smiles, talked her jaw off some more to her admiring fans.

UESDAY 8th March marked the 100th anniversary of International Women’s Day and to celebrate that occasion Southampton Solent invited the world renowned writer and journalist Kathy Lette to the university.

Feminist enthusiasts all over Southampton eagerly flocked to the Sir James Matthew building to be an audience to Lette’s inspirational tirades.

Kathy Lette is well-known for her literature, having had her first book, ‘Puberty Blues’ published when she was just 18-years-old.

She took to the sofa with a grin on her face and adorned two rosettes that read ‘Feminist’ and ‘Strumpet’ which she said both represented the different sides of her as a woman.

Her distinctive Australian accent fills the lecture theatre and all eyes are on her as she speaks fluently and passionately about feminism, or what she’s chosen to rebrand as the ‘Cliterati’.

Lette described her idea of a feminist as being against the original stereotype of a bra burning, hairy legged man hater, professing that “we love our men” and that she sees a member of the Cliterati as a woman who “kept her wonder

LETTE’S BE FRIENDS Journalism PGL Lisa Dibben and Prof Van Gore with Kathy

MADE UP Kathy gets her award from Solent

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AS THEY ROCKED THE CITY, SPLASH SPOKE TO ONE HALF OF DYNAMIC DUO CHASE AND STATUS CLASS ACT Chase and Status wow audience

T

Saul cuts to the

CHASE

WO hours before kicking off the tour for their recent top 5 album No More Idols, one half of this year’s most exciting breakthrough duo talks about the album’s production. Saul ‘Chase’ Milton would be forgiven for seeming nervous about being on the brink of embarking on their largest UK tour to date, but he is far from that.

“The last few months before it was released we were in the studio every single day for like 20 hours.” Sat there de-fluffing his trilby, Saul is as calm as they come.

“The last twelve months has been the main time for producing the album, but it became about slotting it in around other things.

But those two months were and important time for the album.”

A sold out audience at Southampton’s Guildhall tonight seems to suggest that Chase & Status’ lack of sleep and countless hours put in have been more than worth it.

Their set tonight spans their rise to the top of the scene over the last five years, erupting first into the jungle beats of latest album opener No Problem.

“Some of our tracks have actually translated to the live show really well.” A live show must have been somewhat of an alien concept to two DJs on the underground grime scene but they’ve put all their effort into compiling an audiovisual display that does not disappoint on any level.

“Our DJ sets are pretty on top; lots of energy and people going mental.

But to go live was kind of a natural progression for us. It is a lot of work to

GURN LARGE The kids were loving it

put this on: the production, the lights, the visuals. There’s a lot of niggledy stuff.” Not to mention a selection of live guests.

As the duo, joined on tour by frontman Rage and drummer Andy Gangadeen, move through their set, switching between tracks both old and new, it seems almost effortless.

The crowd erupts when Tempa T emerges on stage through the smoke to perform fan favourite Hypest Hype. On only the opening night of their near enough sold out tour, Chase & Status are making an ear splitting statement with their live performance that will worry even the likes of Pendulum.

Each song injects more and more energy into the atmosphere and the fans look like they could go all night long.

After working the crowd up to a reckless peak with recent hits Let You Go and End Credits, the twosome mellow the mood with liquid classic In Love and upcoming single Time, for which Delilah is welcomed onstage.

Chase & Status deliver their grimeflavoured brand of drum ‘n bass with awesome vivacity, demonstrated no less in their remix of Nneka’s Heartbeat.

Announced as the final song, current single Blind Faith’s massive sound and soulful vocals from Liam Bailey see’s a fittingly riotous ending to a display of the best in the game.

At the end of a set like that, the only complaint can be that it’s over.

TAKING THE MIC Working the crowd

12//Splash

24HOURS

CLUB NIGHT: WAHOO

THE PLACE TO BE SEEN

IF YOU haven’t been to Wahoo yet, this sports bar is the perfect place to watch sport, grab a bite, or party throughout the night. The bar shows sports such as American football, soccer, cricket, rugby, and much more.

Here is a list of events running throughout the week: Wahoo offers great drink deals with pints for £2 and food deals from £4.99 all week.

THURSDAYS : Let the party start! Regular special events including ‘Destruction’, ‘Paradox’ original events and the ‘Frat’ Party.

FRIDAYS: Come Play presents Uni-Sex... music night with a DJ. SATURDAYS : Watch live sport all day on the big screen.

SUNDAYS: ‘Who’s Your Funkin Daddy’ one of the best student nights athe with student DJ Liam Munza (Galaxy FM).

Review by Lauren Cansick: “I visited the vibrant club last Sunday, where the buzzing music was heard from down the street. The venue is spacious, with a massive bar ,energetic students all scrambling to make the most of the insanely reasonable £1 drinks deal. The mixture of music throughout the duration of the night included a variety of hip hop, urban, and garage, pleasing everyone.’’

Jessica, a student from Southampton Solent University stated: ‘I love going to Wahoo, it is my favourite club in Southampton, I think that the music is so good and I always have a really good night there.’

Entertainment and reviews from Gary Peters and Charlotte Webb

A Frantastic feast of music at the Joiners Lead singer of support band ‘The Afterparty’ ‘impressive vocals’

FILMS

DAMON’S LATEST ADVENTURE The Adjustment Bureau Review by Stacey Tonks 105 mins long. 12A. Starring Matt Damon and Emily Blunt, The Adjustment Bureau was released last weekend . It’s a thriller/romance directed by George Nolfi, famous for The Bourne Series and Ocean’s 12.

Is it fate? Or free will? This is what The Adjustment Bureau adresses.

Matt Damon (pictured) stars as politician David Norris,a man whose life has been mapped out for him ,but he doesn’t agree with the routes.

He falls in love with Elise Sellas (Emily Blunt). As fate keeps bringing them together, the Bureau try their hardest to keep them apart. We watch David fight for the only woman he has ever loved, in a film which addresses questions many have pondered across on the role of fate and our own free will.

There has been much hype around the film which is described as the Bourne Ultimatum meets Inception. Though the movie was enjoyable, it wasn’t quite the thriller you would expect. To relate a film to Inception, you expect to spend the whole movie on the edge of your chair, with your heart racing. This was not the case. Only a few minutes keep viewers gripped. Whilst there was action, it was too sugar coated in love to have the impact it needed.

The idea is intriguing at first, but it’s not long until the plot is given away. Despite this the acting is fantastic. Matt Damon and Emily Blunt made a believable couple.

The movie is easy to follow. Though they could have expanded on more issues ,the film did presented the idea of fate and free well. You’ll be sure to want to go to the pub afterwards to discuss what’s been addressed.

THE work one of the most iconic artists of the twentieth This film is great for both century, Andy Warhol will be displayed in two Southampton genders.It is worth watching galleries from 27th March – 25th June 2011. The City Art Gallery even if it is just to give you a will display Warhol’s infamous prints, paintings and posters, including thought questions that will get his work with pop art. The John Hansard Gallery will show Warhol’s film your mind ticking away and and photography. There are plenty of activities for all ages, with a ‘factory’ conversations booming. style space for children and families. There will also be workshops and seminars. The exhibition is part of the Artist Rooms 2011 national tour.

15 MINUTES WITH WARHOL...

S

By NAOMI WILSON

queezing through a crowd of sweaty bodies,with

carefully held pints,it was obvious ,from the already packed ,that this was going to be a big event.

Through the hazy blue stage lights,support band the ‘Afterparty’ started the night off .With an upbeat rock vibe and energetic vocalist, the five piece band from Southampton instantly set anticipation in the crowd for headliners, Francesqa.

‘Burn the Fleet’ were next to add to the palpable atmosphere. At first, they had a somewhat intimidating stage presence, with the vocalist pulling scary faces and spitting into the air above him throughout the first song.

However, their lively rock vibe soon had spectators jumping. With impressive vocals from lead singer Andrew Convey, it was difficult not to be instantly won over by ‘Burn the Fleet’. As they called for some “audience participation” they had fans clapping, chanting and shouting lyrics back at them.

By the end of their set, it was obvious that ‘Burn the Fleet’ had made an impact , not just on their fans, but on people who hadn’t heard them before as well.

American band ‘The Dangerous Summer’ from Maryland followed. The band have already had amazing success.

They signed with Hopeless Record Label in 2007 and their single ‘The Permanent Rain’ featured on the trailer for the film, ‘Love Happens’.

Their slightly more gentle rock saw the lively atmosphere fade slightly. However, the lead singer kept encouraging the crowd with a unique American twang, the band still managed to keep their audience gripped.

As their set ended it was obvious that impatience for Francesqa was growing and when they finally appeared the atmosphere was instantly electric. They burst straight into their first song and immediately had the crowd jumping to their lively rock sound.

Amongst the songs performed was their latest single ‘Years’, taken from their soon to be released album.

Lead vocalist - Ashley Wilkie sang with such an infectious passion.

The five piece band then toned things down with a few acoustic numbers,such as ‘Boy’, their first song ever written and recorded. It’s gentler feel and melodic vocals made a beautiful contrast to their more upbeat performances and so overall, lead to a varied and engaging set.

As they finished with single ‘Ghost’, it was obvious from the pounding floor of hundreds of jumping spectators that this was definitely a successful gig.

With a finish like this, you certainly did not have to be a devoted fan to enjoy the gig and get caught up in the upbeat sound and electric atmosphere that is, Francesqa.

Splash//13

The band sang with infectious passion

UPCOMING EVENTS LETTING you know whats happening across Southampton in March SUN 13th .Adam Asunder, Tom Moody & Giles Halski. Joiners.

7.30pm. £5 in adv. £6 on the door TUES 15th: THE LEVELLERS 7:30pm Guildhall, Southampton Tickets £23.49 WEDS 16th: EXAMPLE. Guildhall .7.30pm. £16 THE PRIMITIVES. Joiners £8 in adv, £10 on the door THURS 17th : THE AUSTRALIAN PINK FLYOD.Guildhall.

Tickets£27.50 The Big Night Out. The fun filled bar crawl heads out around the best nightlife hot spots, wrist bands are now on sale in the SU for £5.

Tropicalia Show at the Talking Heads (A Latin salsa & Brazilian samba party band)

VETERANS The Levellers

SAT 19th DELAYS .Joiners.

Although they’re quintessentially English, Southampton’s Delays aren’t your normal Britpop band.Tickets £12 in adv, £14 on the door.

TUES 22nd - DOES IT OFFEND YOU, YEAH?. The Talking Heads.Alternative/electronic band. £10 FRI 23rd - BLACKGUARD, Death/Metal, at Joiners. If ever there was a test case proving that hard work, tenacity, a healthy amount of suffering, and word of mouth pays off, Blackguard is it.

Tickets £7 in adv. £9 on the door

Ashley Wilkie Francesqa frontman performed a varied and engaging set

SAT 26th - THE THIN WHITE DUKE. The Talking Heads. Five piece David Bowie Tribute Band. £6 in adv, £8 on the door.

SUN 27th – BURLESQUE ROCKS meets bizzaria island.

Orange rooms. Early bird £5, after 11pm £7.50 THURS 31st. Ed Byrne: Crowd Pleaser .Guildhall 7:30pm. £20 Contact details to book tickets or find out more: Guildhall: 02380632601 The Joiners: 02380225612 Talking heads: 02380678446 Orange rooms:02380232333

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d e k c i k p o r D University of Southampton 47 Southampton Solent University 5

Solent booted out of BUCS cup by bitter rivals as hyped-up grudge match ends in a damp squib

By ADAM TIGHE SOLENT University were unceremoniously dumped out of the BUCS Womens’ Rugby Cup by Southampton University as the long-awaited and much-hyped Grudge Match proved to be a damp squib.

The previous meeting between the feuding neighbours was abandoned amid accusations of inept refereeing as five Solent players received injuries.

But those expecting a feisty affair was expected, as both sides kept their tempers and the rugby was allowed to flow, even if it was mostly in one direction.

The onslaught began from the first minute with Solent pinned back in their own twenty two.

Southampton continued to push forward and it was not long until they forced their way over the line to open the scoring.

The first half was a constant barrage of pressure from Southampton and only some stern and determined defending from Solent and some abysmal conversion attempts by Southampton

kept the half-time score down to 27-0. The second half started in a similar fashion with more pressure from Southampton piling on and they where soon to take the score over the 30-point mark.

The score read 37 – 0 before Solent’s Laura Wright was able to show her class.

After touching down a magnificent seven times in her previous game she once again proved her attacking qualities.

A devastating run down the right managed to outpace the Southampton defence and she even managed to touch down beneath the posts.

It was yet another example of her impressive forward play and shows why her presence in the side will be greatly missed next year.

Wright is currently in her final year of her Sports journalism degree at the University and will no doubt be sorely missed on and off the rugby field.

The second half performance from Solent not only brought them a try but a much more solid performance, managing to gain some more territory than they had achieved in the first half.

Two late scores for Solent’s fierce rivals added a final bit of gloss to the score line form them and they eventually ran out 47 – 5 winners with an overall impressive display.

For Solent it was a tough lesson but a brave fight was put up. The animosity that finished the previous encounter was nowhere to be seen in this contest.

With both sides offering a sporting three cheers for each other at the final whistle.

Solent’s season has come to an end in somewhat disappointing fashion but it was a performance a lot of positives can be taken from and hopefully one the side can built on for next year.

CHALLENGE Team huddle

IMAGES: ADAM TIGHE

A tough lesson but a brave fight

TRYING Laura Wright makes a touchdown for Solent

FOLLOWING their first ever victory at the British University and Colleges Sport (BUCS) equestrian competition in Surrey, the Southampton Solent team have finally made a mark on the competitive university equestrian scene and are looking ahead to the next regional competition on March 30.

Solent’s team, captain Georgina Whittle, 20, Louise Chamberlain, 19, Emily Breeze, 21, and Lucy Shearing, 20, are in League 16 of the national competition, and compete in the same league with universities from Reading, Southampton and Surrey.

Of the four fixtures that occur each season, Reading are said to be the current favourite, winning the first two competitions of the season at home and at the University of Southampton.

But at the third competition in Surrey, the Solent underdogs came out with vigour, winning a competition

for the first time. Team member Emily Breeze said: “We were convinced we finished second or third.”

But when the announcer called Solent in first, the team of four all screamed at their achievement. Emily said: “I almost fell over.”

The girls are confident they can go on to win their next game, a home fixture, and qualify for the regionals. “We don’t want to jinx it but it’s possible,” fellow team member Georgina Whittle said. Emily added: “We have the home advantage, we know all the horses we’re going to ride.”

Solent’s equestrian team train once a week every week and then twice a week leading up to competitions.But in order to win, the team have to beat favourites Reading.

Despite local rivals Southampton University competing in the same league, the girls would rather beat

Reading. “They are really good,” said Emily, “but we beat them by 30 points in Surrey so there isn’t a reason why we can’t go on and win.”

As well as a team, the girls compete individually. Louise Chamberlain finished first in the solo placings. She said: “I couldn’t believe it, I actually knocked a pole down on my jumping round and other people went clear.”

All of the team have ridden since they were young, and all own their own horses. Lucy Shearing said: “I could ride before I could walk.”

They all own their own horses but they don’t ride them in competition, each yard has their own stable of horses which the competitor’s ride.

They describe jumping on a horse they have only met seven minutes previously as “scary stuff”: “You don’t know what it’s going to do, if it’s going to bolt or buck you off.”

IMAGE: SAM GOOLD KNIBBS

We’re now the frontrunners - let’s just not jinx it!

IN THE SADDLE Solent uni’s equestrians are making impact

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IMAGES: SCOTT HENDRY

Solent Seconds left seeing red in foul-tempered drubbing by Plymouth

CHIPS, NO FISH, PLENTY VINEGAR...

By TOM VEITCH SOLENT seconds Football Team failed to close the gap on leaders University of Plymouth at the top of BUCS Western Conference 3A league after a 5-0 drubbing at home in a hot tempered affair which saw four red cards and nine yellows.

Both teams saw a player each sent off during the 90 minutes but two more Solent players saw red after the final whistle with the referee giving them their marching orders for foul and abusive language.

Team Solent lacked discipline from the start of the match, after conceding a controversial penalty in the first few minutes after the referee deemed Solent full-back Mark Jordan to have fouled Plymouth winger James Baldeon.

Dan Mason confidently took the spot kick putting the visitors one up.

Plymouth doubled their lead 11 minutes after more poor defending from Solent giving away their second penalty in ten minutes with centre

back Callum Salter pushing striker James Neville in the area.

Midfielder Dan Mason got his second of the game from sending the keeper the wrong way.

More defensive errors by the home team nearly allowed Plymouth a third before half time but UPFC failed to capitalise after squandering a few good chances.

Solent nearly got one back just before half time when centre back Chris Boxx saw his header go just off target.

Plymouth began the second half the brighter side, putting pressure on the struggling Solent defence, with winger Mark Blisit missing the target from one yard.

But it wasn’t long until they finally got a breakthrough with Blisit making up for his previous error putting home an easy finish following good work from Neville after 62 minutes.

UPFC added to their tally once more ten minutes later after Boxx sawhis deflected header nestle into his own bottom corner to give the away

OFFENSIVE Solent on the attack

Use of foul and abusive language

TROUBLE Portsmouth take control of game side a four goal lead. And they found their fifth five minutes later when substitute striker Josh Oliver latched on to a through ball and found a cool finish with only his second touch of the game. Solent soon dropped their

heads and the team started to pick up frequent yellow cards, seeing three in the last ten minutes, before Dec Edwards had his marching orders five minutes from time after receiving his second yellow for dissent.

Plymouth right back Matt Mcdonal’s mistimed challenge in the 86th minute also made him see red following his second yellow card. Plymouth held on to take a comfortable 5-0 victory widening the gap at the top of the table to seven points.

However the controversy didn’t end at the full time whistle, with a few Solent players showing their anger at the referee’s actions during the game.

The referee felt that Callum Slater and Maff Young went over the top and showed them both red cards for foul and abusive language.

Solent has now dropped to third in the table after their defeat with the University of Exeter Men’s Thirds overtaking them to second place.

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The BUCS stops here

WOMEN’S RUGBY TEAM DUMPED OUT OF CUP: pXX

SCRUM CHANCE Huddle for tactics talk - but there’s no salvaging the day for Solent’s women’s team

Goalkeeping heroics from Cousens pave way for William to clinch penalty shoot-out Team Solent 0 Eastleigh Reserves 0 (Team Solent win 5-4 on penalties)

By JACK WESTGARTH TEAM Solent held their nerve in a dramatic penalty shoot-out to earn a place in local football’s showpiece St Marys stadium final for the third successive year. William Tickle’s spotkick clinched a 504 shoot-out win over Eastleigh Reserve in the Southampton Senior Cup final at Sholing FC’s Portsmouth Road ground.

The Students were deadlocked at the end of two hours with the Blue Square Conferenence South’s reserve side but keeper Sam Cousens proved to be a hero in the shoot-out, saving three penalties, paving the way for Tickle to slot home the decisive spot-kick.

Team Solent, who were beaten in last year’s final by Sholing’s Reserves (then under the guise of VT Reserves) will face Queens Keep in the final, which will be played during May. Cousens proved to be Solent’s hero, not only with his three spot-kick saves, but a string of fine stops ensured Solent took the tie to penalties.

Against a side boasting superior fitness and technical ability, Solent could have won the tie within the ninety minutes had striker Alex Chapman converted rather than heading over when well placed. It was all Eastleigh pressure in the opening exchanges and they were unlucky not to go ahead af-

TICKLE GETS LAST LAUGH

ter just two minutes when energetic frontman Ben Chambers slammed a right foot shot against the post.

Chambers was proving a real handful up front for the Solent defence and brought a fantastic one handed save from Cousens just minutes later to keep the scores level.

On 33 minutes an incisive through ball split the Eastleigh back line and after the initial shot was saved Chapman was denied a certain goal by a last ditch tackle from opposing captain Joe Crook. Much of the play in the second half was condensed into midfield, with Solent’s Joe Smyth looking

A string of fine stops by Cousens

particularly industrious while picking up the first booking of the game for an over enthusiastic challenge. There was one final chance before extra time but Cousens was again on his toes to stop Liam Hibberd’s goal bound shot.

The first period of extra time contained more action than there’d been all game.

Chambers had appeals for a penalty waved away in the second minute of extra time. After the restart Solent came even closer to edging ahead.

After a scramble in the area a shot cannoned of a defenders body when fortunately placed on the goal line sav-

ing a certain goal. As both teams tired there was one final chance for Eastleigh, but once again Cousens made sure the scores remained level.

Solent’s first penalty was saved but Cousens got a strong hand to Chris Mason’s effort. However there was another twist when Solent blasted their fourth penalty wide, leaving Eastleigh right back O’Donnell the task of scoring to win the game.

Cousens had other ideas with a great low stop to his right, sending it to sudden death. After another missed effort from Eastleigh, Will Tickle stepped up and showed how to keep a cool head