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issue 17 EDITOR
Assif Majid editor@thesuburbmagazine.co.uk MARKETING & GRAPHICS
Sajad Mahmood Asif Ahmed artwork@thesuburbmagazine.co.uk ADVERTISING & SALES
Osman Gondal Sallie Wharf sales@thesuburbmagazine.co.uk STAFF WRITER
Javeria Akhtar DISTRIBUTION
Imran Hussain Stephen Metcalfe distribution@thesuburbmagazine.co.uk ADMINISTRATION ASSISTANT
Omar Farooq CONTRIBUTORS
Umar Ayaz Mark Roberts Asha Srinivasan Lisa Bohanna Lizzie Whyman Parveen Ahmed Cassie Wray Published by
The Suburb Magazine Ltd Publishing House, Suite 2 Carter Gate Works Thornbury Road Bradford BD3 8HE Telephone: 0845 021 8910 enquiries@thesuburbmagazine.co.uk www.thesuburbmagazine.co.uk © Copyright 2008 The Suburb Magazine. All rights reserved. Nothing in this magazine may be reproduced in whole or part without written permission from The Suburb Magazine Ltd. The views and opinions expressed by individual authors do not necessarily reect those of the The Suburb Magazine Ltd. Although we endeavour to ensure that all the information in the magazine is correct, details may vary or be subject to change. Neither the editor nor the publisher can accept responsibility for any materials submitted, whether photographic or otherwise. The editor reserves the right to edit any material supplied as they see t. Please note, we reserve the right to refuse advertisements at our discretion. We are not liable for any loss or damage whatsoever resulting from advertisements or articles. PICTURE CREDITSAndrew Timms – Luella Bartley for BFA, Elmwood – Skin Deep, Stephen Webster – The Bug Bazaar (One of a kind bug me ring in white gold with chrysocola white diamonds, black sapphires and onyx C), Claire Moynihan – The Bug Bazaar (Wasp Ball), Magnus Magnusson – Matthew Williamson for H&M
EDITORIAL It’s the time of year when we begin to make our resolutions and commitments. It is believed that this tradition goes back about 4000 years from the time of the ancient city of Babylon. The most popular resolution then was to return borrowed farm equipment, where as now it might be to loose weight or quit smoking. Around 2000 BC the Babylonian new year commenced with the new moon after the Vernal Equinox. Spring is seen as the season of birth and vitality – owers blossoming, new crops being agricultured and animals giving birth. The Romans celebrated the new year well into the month of March. However, various Roman emperors manipulated the calendar and soon it was no longer in synchronisation with the sun.
January 1, has no astronomical or agricultural signicance. It is purely arbitrary. It made sense to celebrate the new year in spring. In 153 BC, Janus a mythical Roman king with two faces, one to look at the past and the other for the future was for many Romans a symbol for forgiveness. The Romans also exchanged gifts at this time such as sacred tree branches, coins and nuts. Early Christians changed new year’s day to December 25, the birth of Jesus. It was later changed to March 25, a holiday called the Annunciation. In the sixteenth century, Pope Gregory XIII revised the Julian calendar, and the celebration of the new year was put back to January 1. Many cultures do not observe January 1 as the beginning of the new year, only cultures that follow the Gregorian and Julian (solar) calendar celebrate January 1 as the start of the new year. Muslim
countries follow the lunar calendar and so does the Chinese culture. In ancient Egypt and Greece a new born child was paraded in a basket around the city to signify the new year and to honour the gods of fertility and re-birth. Although the date for new year’s day is not the same in every culture, it has become a time for celebration and for customs to ensure good luck in the coming year. Whatever brought the tradition of new years to us it is celebrated in style today. Parties take place all over the world on new year’s eve to welcome in the new year. We look forward to this time of year and meet it with a sense of renewal and anticipation of the year ahead, hoping that it is going to be the year that makes the difference in our lives. More importantly Its a time when we get together with friends and family and that really makes this time of year even more special.
contents
Editor’s Letter This month I caught up with the amiable Mr Amos in Leeds and what a funny man indeed. His tour Find The Funny is coming to Wakeeld’s Theatre Royal; make sure you get your ticket for an unmissable night. We are giving away three tickets to one lucky person this month, check out our competition on page 32 for more information. The party season is nally over and I hope you are not feeling too blue. If you are, why not head to the Jewel of Great Britain – Scotland, as it is celebrating its Homecoming 2009 and there are some fantastic events throughout this year. We have searched the best in Yorkshire to nd you what’s on and what to do this month, if you need inspiration that is. Our beauty queen Cassie Wray has tried and tested some of the best products for your pouts and eyes, I hope you enjoy. We have teamed up with the lovely girls at tomakeyougorgeous.co.uk to give away a FREE DermaSponge kit this month, for more details check out page 36 and get emailing! Over the next few months we will be introducing loads of new pages such as street style and vox pops with you – the Suburb readers. We always welcome our readers to write and share their opinions, so please get in touch – we’d love to hear from you. Finally, Happy New Year and I hope this year brings you success and happiness. Assif, Editor P.S Watch this space for news of our revamped website…
13 IN FOCUS A short newsflash of news that didn’t make the news
23 FINANCE The joys of coupledom with an examination from our Debt doctor
32 A round up of good old Yorkshire events for your diary
42 FOOD & DRINK Not all foods are created equal; but some have far more benets than others, cue the superfoods
06 SUBURBMAGAZINE 6 SUBURBMAGAZINE
contents
contents 8 TECHNOLOGIC Gadgets on the go-go and all rise for the computer mouse as it celebrates its 40th birthday
15 INTERNATIONAL
18 STYLING
We visit the Scottish
It’s the New Year so we
highlands to banish those
help you shop for new work
January blues
gear this season
26 MOTORING
28 STEPHEN K AMOS
Gimme some skin gearhead,
We meet Mr funny himself
it’s retro cars from the 70s
– award winning Mr Amos. He jokes and laughs with our editor
35
39 CULTURE
Get lippy and flutter those
The rise of cocaine abuse in
lashes as we focus on eyes
the UK
and lips this month
45 SPORTS
48 INTERIORS
Premiership boys in the
We help you clear the
season’s most talked about
clutter and look at some
league
of the hottest trends in interiors for 2009
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technology
TECHNOLOGY There’s always an ampleness of good things about the New Year and it denitely provides us with the opportunity to celebrate. We look at some of the coolest gadgets on the go-go and also, the humble mouse celebrated its 40th birthday recently – we pay homage.
NOKIA E71 Nokia has introduced the latest incarnation in the world of mobile phones. The new E71 is a cost effective mobile phone and has managed to outshine in the business world. It is said to be the slimmest smart phone with a sleek design and a smart phone system that uses ultrasound sensors to detect hand movements -- not on the screen, but in the air in front of it. It features a 3.15-megapixel camera with ash, 3G (HSDPA), Wi-Fi, GPS, microUSB memory expansion, ofce tools, as well as a great battery. Excellent features with variable combinations, the E series smart phone is available in affordable prices
NIKON COOLPIX S60
If you are looking for products, ideas and news that will help reduce greenhouse gases and keep your wallet happy then you need to pay a visit to carbonneutral.com. They have all sorts of useful information and an online shop where you can buy ecofriendly products and do your bit for that planet. Did you know it takes a tree 100 years to soak up the amount of CO2 a person could produce from driving in just 2 months? This can easily be offset by changing your behavior (e.g. buying green electricity).
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Nikon have nally unveiled this stylish, innovative 10 megapixel camera with revolutionary touchscreen technology that puts the power to capture brilliant images at your ngertips. With a NIKKOR 5x zoom lens that offers outstanding precision and sharp resolution, a 3x anti-blur screen that counters blurry images in three ways and a wide, 3.5inch high-resolution LCD touch screen and only two buttons - camera-on/off and shutter release - operation is both fun and intuitive. Simply touch your subject on the screen to set the
correct focus and exposure. Scene Auto Selector will automatically ensure that all camera settings are optimized for the best possible results in a variety
of popular photographic situations. The camera has also been designed for the perfect combination of sleek beauty and a functional, compact style.
technology
SMART CHIP THAT HOLDS HALF A MILLION SONGS Smart technology is to pave the way for gadgets such as MP3 players and mobile phones. This breakthrough in technology has come from research by IBM scientists who believe that MP3 players could hold up to 500,00 songs or 3,500 lms and cost a fraction of the price they do now to produce. The report was published in the Science journal. This so called ‘racetrack’ memory uses the spin of an electron to save its data and can work much faster than your average hard drive. Currently the most advanced iPod - the 160GB iPod Classic - can store 40,000 songs.
COMPUTER MOUSE CELEBRATES 40TH BIRTHDAY
Recently, the computer mouse celebrated its 40th anniversary. Hi-tech visionary Dr. Douglas C Engelbart rst used one back in 1968 to demonstrate novel ways of working with computers. The very rst mouse that Dr Engelbart used in the demo at the Fall Joint Computer Conference (FJCC) was made of wood and had just the one button. Most of the technology that was used in the demonstration inspired the creation of the hardware and software now widely used. The mouse, which was built by Bill English, helped Dr Engelbart to show how text les could be clipped, copied and pasted as well as showing ways of using computer networks to co-edit documents. A day of celebration was held in California to mark the anniversary, with many of the researchers behind the original demo reunited to mark the event.
Scientists have nally caught up with sci- lms like Star Wars and Harry Potter. Three
The breakthrough also potentially paves the way for a radical re-writing of one of the most basic laws of computing - socalled Moore’s Law, the maxim coined in 1965 by the co-founder of Intel, Gordon Moore, according to which computing speed doubles about every two years.
dimensional TVs could be a reality in ve years time according to researchers at the University of Arizona, US. Currently 3D lms relied on using glasses to feed a slightly different image to the right and left eyes, using
different coloured lenses or polaroid, like the ones used in the Imax version of Harry Potter. Holograms are opposing instructions of light created by the synergy of a uniform reference laser beam with a second beam
that has been reected from an object of interest. If the beam agnates to the primary reference beam and then shone through a hologram, the by-product is a threedimensional picture of the item scanned.
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9
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in focus
POSTAL WORKERS PRESSURISED TO WALK FASTER
ROBBERS THWARTED WITH A CUP OF TEA
Postal workers are reportedly complaining that they have been told to walk faster to complete their rounds under costsaving measures. The
Communication Workers Union stated that delivery staff was being told to walk at a speed of 4mph, an increase over a previous target of 2.4mph. The union
said delivery workers were being pressed to complete unrealistic and difcult rounds to gain nancial savings. The Royal Mail has denied the union’s claims.
A shopkeeper thwarted armed robbers with just a cup of tea, police said. Two masked men, one armed with a knife, tried to steal a till from a village store in Bedfordshire. But they were forced to ee empty handed when the owner Varsha Patel threw her mug of tea in the face of one and then hit the other in the face with the empty mug.
POLICE MACHINE GUN SENT TO GRANNY A grandmother was stunned to open a package to nd a police machine gun staring back at her. Rather than the horse harness she had been expecting, Catherine Roots received a black Heckler and Koch sub-machine gun. The package was wrongly delivered to Mrs Roots rather than rearms ofcers at the nearby Dorset Police Headquarters in Winfrith near Dorchester . She called police and two armed ofcers, who were just as shocked as she was, turned up to take away the gun. Dorset Police is now seeking assurances from its unnamed supplier that such a mistake could never happen again.
STAR WARS LIGHTSABRE SOLD FOR £161,000 One lucky fan’s Christmas came early as he spent 240,000 US dollars (£161,000) to get his hands on the prop that was used in the rst ever Star Wars movies. Actor Mark Hill used the lightsabre, which was made from an old photography ash gun. The auction took place in LA where a whole host of Hollywood memorabilia was sold.
In total about 3.5 million dollars (£2.32 million) was made on the night. The rst British version of You Only Live Twice inscribed by James Bond author Ian Fleming sold for 84,000 dollars (£56,300) and Roald Dahl’s handwritten screenplay for the blockbuster of the same title sold for 96,000 dollars SUBURBMAGAZINE
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in focus
in focus HOLY ABBEY IS REVAMPED For 800 years Malmesbury Abbey has been a holy site for worshippers to make their pilgrimage for religious silence. But the sound of skateboards will soon echo throughout the ancient monument when it is turned into a skate park.
CHRISTMAS CAROL BAN ON SCHOOL CHOIR A school choir has been banned from singing Christmas carols at a festive celebration because organisers wanted to “remove any religious content”, it was claimed. Around 60 pupils from Arthur Bugler Junior School, in Stanfordle-Hope, Essex, had been due to perform at the Corringham Winter Festival, in Corringham, Essex. But after the youngsters had nished rehearsals, organisers told them their role would not “dovetail” with the event, local Conservative councillor Danny Nicklen said. 12
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Church elders, including the Bishop of Bristol, are supporting the idea to clear the pews from Malmesbury Abbey in Wiltshire and replace them with skate ramps. The abbey will be turned into an indoor skate park for three days along with a cafe and live music stage.
MICHAEL JACKSON’S GLOVE ON SALE Michael Jackson’s infamous jewelled glove is going up for auction. Los Angeles based company Julien’s Auctions have revealed that Jackson is also unloading the gates that once led to his Neverland Ranch, along with 2,000 other personal items, during a ve-day auction. The sale will be broadcast live on Auction Network in the US, and bids will be accepted in person and online. Happy bidding!
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international
Happy By Umar Ayaz Are you feeling the winter blues along with a little wanderlust? Wouldn’t it be wonderful to ditch everything, well almost, and jet set off to some magical location and forget about it all? Getting away can help relax and rejuvenate your mind, body and soul.
What better time is there than now, the beginning of a brand new year? During these difcult times even our thoughts may seem reckless; so turn the ‘credit crunch’ to your advantage. You don’t have to go far; our own doorstep has plenty on offer without you deecting to foreign shores, what more could you ask for? So look no further than the jewel of Great Britain: Scotland.
Suburb’s top ve places to visit are: De Vere Venue Barony Castle
This contemporary and welcome majestic building has all the modern amenities and home comforts you could ask for with a few extras despite its grand facade. Set in 25 acres of peaceful gardens and woodlands, located just over 30 minutes south of Edinburgh so it is easily accessible. It is the ideal place to get away to especially if you want a
luxurious holiday with all the trimmings and much, much more. You can relax in the plush surroundings and treat yourselves to a variety of treatments which includes a sauna and a pool or enjoy a drink at the bar or why not experiment with some local dishes at the exquisite restaurant; all after a walk in the fresh Scottish air, should help to detox your thoughts. With awless service against the distinctive backdrop, De Vere Venue Barony Castle should be your rst choice as it has been the provider of quality holidays throughout the area for a number of years.
Cairngorms National Park
It is home to some of the best wildlife habitats in the whole of the UK. The Park is larger then the Lake District and is situated about halfway between the cities of Aberdeen and Inverness. It has ancient pine forests, mountains, rivers and moorlands which are home to some of the nation’s most
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international
Here’s the 101 on Scotland for those who know very little about it: Scotland occupies the northern third of Great Britain. Edinburgh is the capital and it’s one of Europe’s largest nancial centres, while Glasgow is the largest city and was named European City of Culture (1990).
endangered wildlife. There is so much on offer from visiting historic castles to scenic walks to extreme sports so you are denitely spoilt for choice.
and gallery is spread across four sites on the university campus so you can enjoy your time there while visiting the small café and shop in the area.
St. Andrews Cathedral
Scottish Castles
The picturesque ruins of Scotland’s one time largest building are denitely worth visiting. In its heyday the building must have been a wonderful sight, unfortunately it went into disrepair after the Reformation in 1559 when most of the stone was used for local buildings. The site now contains an impressive collection of original stonework and sculptures from all eras of its history, from medieval to 17th century; plus it boasts some fantastic views, especially from the top of St Rule’s Tower.
Hunterian Museum and Art Gallery
Scotland’s oldest public museum is home to one of the top ve collections in the country. It has over a million pieces on display there is quiet a lot to pack into your visit and a few things will more then likely pique your interest. The Hunterian is the legacy of Dr William Hunter, a legendary collector who amassed a fortune in London as a physician and spent his wealth on his vast and varied collection which took pride of place in his home town of Glasgow. The museum 16
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Scotland’s volatile history has left its permanent marks on the nation and its psyche, in the form of numerous castles and fortresses that litter the landscape. Some of them are Europe’s most impressive while others are little gems that hark back to the Dark Ages. However, all of them have the power to grab your attention which is why they are always on the top destination lists and even the celebrities love them and some have even been the settings for some glamorous weddings.
Some of the best castles to check out are: Edinburgh Castle Stirling Castle Eilean Donan Castle, Dornie, Wester Ross Caerlaverock Castle, Glencaple, Dumfries Craigievar Castle, by Alford Culzean Castle, near Maybole, Ayrshire Dunvegan Castle, Isle of Skye Fyvie Castle, Fyvie, Aberdeenshire Duart Castle, Duart Point, Mull Inveraray Castle, Inveraray, Argyll For more information check out: visitscotland.com
The north-western half of the country is dominated by the Scottish Highlands, which are areas of natural beauty and scenery especially for those who are adventurous. Apart from the mainland, there are over 790 islands including the Northern Isles, which include the Orkney’s, the Shetland’s and the Hebrides. The Bagpipe is the most famous instrument, and has led to Bagpipe Bands who march while playing them along with drums.
Homecoming Scotland 2009 A spectacular calendar of events will mark Scotland’s rst-ever Homecoming year. Whether you’re a Scot, of Scottish descent, or simply love Scotland, you’re invited. Homecoming Scotland 2009 will celebrate some of Scotland’s great contributions to the world (golf, whisky, ancestry and of course, Robert Burns) with a yearlong country-wide programme of exciting and inspirational events and activities. You’ll be spoilt for choice with a fantastic array of things to see, do and be a part of. Festivities kick off with the 250th birthday of Scotland’s famous son and poet – Robert Burns. Jan 25 – Nov 30, homecomingscotland2009.com
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styling
New Year
New Work Wear 1
4
3 2
What you wear to the ofce is important. Your apparel reects your personality and inuences what others think of you – especially your boss. In today’s capricious society image is everything! So with the new year in mind – out with the old and in with the new. It’s time to update that wardrobe with the season’s hottest ofce-wear. There is plenty of choice from vintage chic to designer labels. Suburb favourite this season is Jigsaw, where no two stores are the same. Their original, on-trend clothing is a must for all fashionista’s. For hot designer labels go too my-wardrobe.com. January sees the launch of their eagerly awaited men’s accessories section. Just take cue...
1. Navy Wool Melton ‘Great Coat’ £595 | Gieves & Hawkes 2. Nick Bronson Silk Knit Tie
5
£34 | my-wardrobe.com
6
3. Chambery shirt £50 | frenchconnection.com 4. Prince of Wales Check Trousers £30 | asos.com
5. Mulberry Black Seth Crossbody Bag £288 | my-wardrobe.com 6. Adler Black/Silver Shoes £140 | frenchconnection.com
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styling
FASHION NEWS
1
2
3
Matthew Williamson Collaborates with H&M Yet again H&M has joined forces with another guest designer – Matthew Williamson, the British designer whose colour-drenched collections always carry the promise of the sun. Starting with an exclusive women’s fashion range at selected stores this spring, then continuing with the perfect men’s and women’s pieces in summer 2009. In an exclusive for H&M, Williamson will debut his rst ever menswear pieces too.
1. Rico Skirt £95 Ella Top £89 Shoes £149
2. White Shirt £95 Trousers £89 Top £85 Shoes £135
3. White Shirt £79 Trousers £89, Shoes £149 all by reiss.co.uk
4. French Connection Jeans £65 J Lindeberg Shirt £110 Hugo Boss Shawl Cardigan £250 John Smedley V Neck Knit £110 all by House of Fraser
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Luella Bartley Wins Designer of the Year Award The British Fashion Council (BFC) crowned Luella Bartley with the prestigious award in a star studded ceremony in Lawrence Hall, Westminster, London. Luella an ex-fashion editor started her career at British Vogue and The Evening Standard. Her collections are eye catching with bold designs and loved by Kate Moss and Kelly Osbourne. Christopher Bailey, Creative Director for Burberry was named Menswear Designer for the second consecutive year
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™
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styling
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2nd Floor | 33 Kirkgate Bradford | BD1 1QB
Tel: 01274 733721 Email: bradford@brookstreet.co.uk
For all your recruitment needs ‌look no further than Brook Street Bradford. Established for over 40 years in Bradford, this Brook Street branch has steadily grown in stature and scale. The team consists of Emma Moffatt - Branch Manager, Caroline Bright and Danielle Hewitt who are the Permanent Consultants and Gemma Kehoe and Sarah Leach are Temp Consultants. Between them they have over 25 years experience in the recruitment business and the economic climate we are currently encountering is just one of the many phases they have faced over the years. Throughout 2008 they have helped over 200 local people secure a permanent career of choice. They have established many long term client relationships; some of these have been working with the branch for over 12 years. They have a number of temporary candidates that have worked
consistently for the branch for over 15 years, which is excellent testimony to the reliability and supply that they deliver. In 2006 the branch was awarded Brook Street Branch of the Year. This is the most prestigious recognition in the Brook Street network of over 120 branches. They are an accredited member of the REC (Recruitment and Employment Confederation) the voice and body for the private recruitment industry in the UK. Although part of a national network of branches, Brook Street’s approach is decidedly local. As a branch they are consistently looking for ways to improve their service in order to deliver exactly what clients and candidates are looking for. Their business philosophy commits them to constantly exceed expectations and that is what keeps Bradford branch one step ahead of the competition.
til
debt
us do part By Lisa Bohanna
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5 TIPS Only recently we have observed how the banks are dealing with the current nancial crisis – lowered interest rates and massive corporate mergers are taking place in an attempt to create economic stability. The manufacturing and retail industry are cutting back by closing down many of their factories and outlets, but what happens to couples when they are faced with nancial crisis – do they close down their relationship? Often couples have separate bank accounts and no real idea of how much the other spends or even earns for that matter. Today’s climate is of sheer independence and as long as the overheads of coupledom are paid for then no one ever questions their nancial stability. There are attractive economic gains from being part of a couple, for the average woman the cost of living as a couple is 30 percent less than living alone, for men it’s around 20 percent less, making coupledom a real good deal! Many couples that I interview during debt counselling have never shared their fears and come clean with their partners about the reality of their bank balance. Is it that we are afraid to come clean with our shortcomings (or the balance sheet) or is it that we don’t want to reveal, I have failed you or I’m not the strong and condent person you thought I was? It has been said that
relationships are formed by one partner being strong and positive when the other is weak and scared. This is usually accepted when we are faced with emotional or physical problems but it’s a whole different ball game when we talk about nancial instability and debt. When money issues arise in a relationship you don’t have to be a relationship counsellor to identify that this can have a devastating effect on an already fragile relationship. As long as the couple posses one crucial asset - the ability to communicate effectively with each other, then they can negotiate and pull on their resources. Otherwise the pressure and stress of the nancial worries could expose the couple’s truths about the relationship all along and provide the breaking point at which the whole relationship could fall apart. The enterprise of coupledom may continue in bliss if you address the nancial issues early on and pluck up the courage to discuss the reality with your partner. It may well be that it opens the door to better communication and a better relationship or if you merely look at how your own bank balance is going to suffer then you may be on the downward slope, as clearly your feelings for your partner don’t extend further than their bank account. This is the point that you may be faced with ‘til debt us do part’.
ARE YOU STRUGGLING TO MANAGE YOUR FINANCES? ASK THE SUBURB DEBT DOCTOR FOR A DIAGNOSIS! 24
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FOR DEALING WITH CLAIMS MANAGEMENT COMPANIES OFFERING TO
WRITE OFF
CREDIT CARD
BALANCES 1
Seek independent advice.
2
Claims management companies need to be authorised by the Ministry of Justice and OFT.
3
Beware in parting with large up front review fees - most reputable claims management companies review for free!
4
Check on previous successful claims and if you do chose to proceed, present one Credit Agreement review at a time.
5
Consumers struggling with nances may wish to seek Independent Debt Advice.
Write in or email The Debt Dr and we shall endeavour to answer your questions in next month’s issue: debt@thesuburbmagazine.co.uk
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T S A P E H T M O R F T S A L B
S R A C O R T RE
BMW M1 The M1 was a sports car that was produced between 1978 – 1981. It was a legendary sport car, despite the fact that fewer than 500 street versions were manufactured by BMW Motorsport. The car was designed by Giugiaro, inspired by the 1972 BMW Turbo show car. BMW had planned to commission Lamborghini to arrange the prototype, chassis and manufacture the vehicles. However, due to Lamborghinis nancial position BMW took over the project and in 1978 the rst prototypes were born. In 1976 the M1 went to the Procar
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series due to poor sales gures. By the time BMW had sold enough the M1 was no longer competitive for Group 5 racing. Last April saw BMW celebrate its 30th anniversary of the M1 sports car by presenting homage as part of the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este 2008. The M1 had various successes in motorsports, including winning the Group B championship in 1984 and in 2004; Sports Car International rated the M1 number ten on the list of Top Sports Cars of the 70s.
motoring
AMC PACER 1971 saw the revolution in automotive design. Richard A. Teague’s design came to life in 1975. Not many of you will admit to owning one of these, or maybe you weren’t old enough. But those who do will remember its nonstandard design, passenger comfort and convenience. It was also featured in classic 80s lm ‘Wayne’s World’. The Pacer was introduced in 1975 by AMC and it ceased production in 1980. Designed to appear modern and futuristic, the shape was highly rounded with a big glass area, and was really unusual for its time. Road & Track magazine described it as “fresh, bold and functional-looking.” The Pacer was a 70s pop culture icon but for some it was the laughing stock of the car showroom. They were nick named ‘shbowl on wheels,
bubble car and even atrium on wheels’. The Pacer was a smooth, stable and fun car to drive. It manoeuvred and handled responsively due to its isolated suspension and rack & pinion steering. Its features included reclining seats, wood grain instrument panel overlays, folding rear seat back and a wide rear hatch that opened onto a at load oor. Its 6-cylinder engine meant more miles to the gallon back in its time. When introduced it was the rst wide small car of its day. There is no car on the road like it now. You couldn’t really be taken too seriously when you drove a car that made people laugh and wave. Teague’s innovative and unique baby found a fare few enthusiasts – French actress Bridgette Bardot, country music singer Conway Twitty and also Richard Petty to name a few.
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k amos
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k amos
Q&A RISING FROM LONDON’S COMEDY CIRCUIT AND A FIRM FAVOURITE AT THE EDINBURGH FESTIVAL STEPHEN K AMOS IS BRINGING HIS TOUR UP NORTH TO YORKSHIRE. WINNING INTERNATIONAL AWARDS FROM THE UK TO NEW ZEALAND – MR AMOS IS WICKEDLY FUNNY AND CREATES A CHARMING AND WONDERFUL CONNECTION WITH HIS AUDIENCE. AMOS HAS BUILT A REPUTATION FOR HIS EFFERVESCENT AUTHORITY WITH HIS AUDIENCE AND PLACES HIM AT THE FOREFRONT AS A COMPERE AS WELL AS A STAND-UP. Mr Amos had a key role in those recent ensemble Fringe dramas with a plethora of stand-ups such as – Talk Radio and One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest. He has also appeared on ‘Have I Got News For You’, made his mark with a hilarious set at ‘The Royal Variety Show’ and triumphed on ‘Live At The Apollo’. His Channel 4 documentary ‘Batty Man’ was nominated for a Bafta and he made it to the nals of ‘Last Comic Standing’. Assif Majid caught up with the funny man himself and discussed his new UK tour.
Where did you grow up and what was your childhood like? I grew up in London to Nigerian born parents, my childhood was great, had a loving family environment. Growing up in the 80s, you had to be strong to survive, it was a difcult era.
Have you got any prestage rituals? I have to confess that I listen to Beyonce on my MP3 player before I go on stage.
You work with the British Red Cross, what does that involve? I am an ambassador for the charity; I will be travelling to Africa next year on a mission to help people in poverty. I actually support quite a few charities, I think you have to.
Can you tell Suburb readers a little about your new comedy tour ‘Find The Funny’? In the past my gigs have been semi autobiographical. However this time round it’s about how funniness is all around us, you can nd the ‘funny’ all around you, it’s a bit of a chill out with no deep meaning.
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k amos they did not have before. It was a fantastic experience.
Do your school experiences have an impact on the content of your comedy nowadays? My whole life has had an affect on my jokes and anecdotes. We all have similar experiences but different perspectives be it that you are black, white or asian. The fact I studied Law has had an affect on me.
Can you cook? If so, what is your signature dish? Well, I was on Celebrity Master Chef and I thought I could cook. I was asked to cook some meat and I asked what do you want me to do with this chicken and I was told it’s duck not chicken, so that tells you a lot about my cooking. I can cook a good spaghetti bolognaise though.
Are you comfortable watching recordings of your own performance? I can’t bare it, I hate watching myself and listening to my own voice, it feels strange.
Why did you get into stand-up comedy?
What has been your most unusual heckle? It was in Birmingham, when a guy stood up and said “Mate, is this faking it”.
What was your worst ever job? Whilst studying Law at university I had a load of crap jobs. I worked as a guard on the Orient Express, I also worked at the meat counter in a supermarket and it was awful. 30
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You were nominated for a BAFTA for your documentary ‘Batty Man’, what was your experience like? It was one of the hardest things I have ever done and the most proudest. It was an insightful documentary and it opened up people’s eyes to what was happening. The programme made people aware of the different issues affecting people’s lives in Jamaica. The programme gave people a voice which
When I nished university I went travelling after all the crap jobs I’d had. I went to the US and stayed with some friends. Whilst I was there one of my mates said why don’t you become a comedian as I was always telling jokes etc. I was like don’t’ be daft. My friend said she was going to open a comedy club in London and wanted me to perform at it. That was 13 years ago.
What were your comic inuences? There weren’t any really as it wasn’t something I had planned to go into as I studied Law at university as
my parents wanted me to get a proper education and a proper job. My rst ever gig I had an A5 pad with jokes written down so I wouldn’t forget. Now I admire people like Mark Craig, Lee Mac and Will Smith.
You have to talk loads on stage, how do you remember everything, do you have a script? I have an idea in my head. In live stand-up it’s all about the moment and you can’t really rehearse for that.
You must travel around a lot with your job, how do you cope with being away from family and friends so much? Family, what family? Who cares? (laughs). Yes it is a downside especially when you have to drive hours at a time. Like when I was in Burnley, Lancashire stayed in a hotel on my own, it did get depressing having no one to share experiences with and especially having to drive back home all alone.
What is the funniest joke you can tell our readers? It is far too rude for us to print here!
What was it like performing in-front of members of the royal family at the 2007 Royal Variety Performance? It was nerve-racking as the audience is not comedy focused. At the end I got to meet Prince Charles and the princes. Prince Harry said to me what an amusing show and you don’t even sound like a black chap!
What are your new year’s resolutions? Life is too short, so live every day as it’s your last.
CHARCO’S
“Taste the Thrill of the Grill”
Bradford 375 / 377 Leeds Road Bradford | BD3 9TY
01274 743742
Leeds 162a Woodhouse Lane Leeds | LS2 9HB
0113 2170809
Leeds 228-230 Roundhay Road Leeds | LS8 4HS
0113 2404060
Opening Times Mon-Fri 11 till 12pm Sat & Sun 12 till 12
events
Suburbia whats on around town WEST YORKSHIRE PLAYHOUSE:
COMPANY ALONG THE MILE Tim Dalton Bidwell’s debut is an insightful comedy that explores nature of companionship, the potential of change and the peculiarities of kidnapping. It also manages to capture the unconventional spirit of Blackpool at its best. 22 January – 24 January Tickets: £10 - £15 Box Ofce 0113 213 7700, wyplayhouse.com
LEEDS GRAND THEATRE & OPERA HOUSE: SKIN DEEP Skin Deep is set in a society preoccupied by youth and beauty, and where Dr Needlemeier’s Alpine clinic thrives as the rich ock to get their cheekbones chiselled and their brows botoxed. But he’s a busy man, and has a secret of his own – he’s concocting an elixir of youth – but when will the doctor face up to the ugly truth that beauty is only skin deep? Leading British composer David Sawer has created a brilliantly satirical operetta – denitely an event not to be missed!
HALIFAX PLAYHOUSE: LAYING THE GHOST
16, 24 & 30 January, 4 & 11 February Tickets: £10 - £58 Box Ofce 0844 848 2706, leedsgrandtheatre.com
This comedy drama is set in YEW Tree House, a retirement home for actors and actresses, where we meet Margot – who really doesn’t want to celebrate her 70th birthday. But the residents around her are keen to do some partying! The scene is set for much chaos though, as Margot’s womanising ex-husband Sir Leo Buchanan suffers from a fatal heart attack and his ghost appears, anxious on sorting out matters between Margot, his current wife Judy and Sadie Croft, his current dalliance. 17 January – 24 January Tickets: £10, concs available Box Ofce 0142 236 5998
SMITH ART GALLERY BRIGHOUSE: PETER BROOK: WORKS FROM PUBLIC COLLECTIONS
COMPETITION
XSCAPE, CASTLEFORD: SNOW SLOPE Yorkshires ultimate entertainment venue with a combination of extreme sports and leisure activities such as the Snow Slope
One lucky reader has the chance to win 3 tickets to ‘Find The Funny’ at Wakeeld’s Theatre Royal on January 27. To be in for a chance to win simply answer this question:
What is Stephen K Amos’s new tour called? Email answers to competition@ thesuburbmagazine.co.uk Deadline is midnight Friday 16 January
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Until 21 April Box Ofce 0871 200 3221, xscape.co.uk
NATIONAL MEDIA MUSEUM, BRADFORD For this exhibition Peter has selected work from Bradford, Calderdale, Kirklees, Leeds and Wakeeld collections, bringing many of them together for the rst time – reminding us why Yorkshire has changed so fast. Until 17 January Tickets: Free Box Ofce 01422 288065
NEW WORKS: Pavilion Commissions 2008 is a visual arts agency in Leeds, creating art using photography and digital media Until 25 January Free entry nationalmediamuseum.org.uk
events THEATRE ROYAL, WAKEFIELD: STEPHEN K AMOS Stephen’s in town with his new gig ‘Find The Funny’ 27 January Tickets: £12-£14, concs available Box Ofce 01924 211 311, wakeeldtheatres.co.uk
HARROGATE THEATRE:
GRAND OPERA HOUSE, YORK:
HYENA LOUNGE COMEDY CLUB WITH ROBIN INCE
CHINESE NEW YEAR GALA 2009 30 January Tickets: £16 & £10 concs Box Ofce: 0844 847 2322 | grandoperahouseyork.org.uk
26 January Tickets: £10, concs available Box Ofce 01423 502 116, harrogatetheatre.co.uk
YORKSHIRE SCULPTURE PARK, WAKEFIELD: MADE: Contemporary Craft and Applied Arts Until 22 February Tickets: Free Box Ofce 01924 832631, ysp.co.uk
MUSEUM SHEFFIELD, SHEFFIELD: THE BUG BAZAAR MILLENNIUM GALLERY From fashion to lm and ne art – The Bug Bazaar play host to some big ideas from a very small world 17 January – 26 April Tickets: Free Box Ofce 0114 278 2600 museums-shefeld.org.uk
It’s the story about the young boy from the back streets of Belfast who grew up to be the most famous footballer in the world, a legend who was the rst superstar of the sport but whose troubled personal life, as much as his sporting genius, came to dominate the headlines. But Barbara and Carol, George’s sisters, and Dickie, his father, know more.”Our George” reveals for the rst time the real story of George Best - as told by those who knew him best and loved him most.
Stars: Ben Stiller, Jack Black and Robert Downey Jr., Steve Coogan Written and directed by Ben Stiller, this fast-paced action packed comedy is denitely one not to be missed. A group of well known successful actors are cast in the biggest, most expensive war movie ever produced. After lming begins, the director (Steve Coogan) changes his mind and throws the actors into real-life combat and they are forced to become the ghting unit they are portraying in their lm. Can they survive and make it out of the jungle alive? Available on DVD/Blu-Ray, hmv.com
Venture into the wild world of animals like never before, with the power to reach out and touch, pick up and move everything in the forest from squirrels and foxes to trees and owers. Throughout your adventure you will make new animal friends and discover what other creatures lurk in the wild. In SimAnimals, you have the ability to engage with wild animals, experience life in the forest and run wild!
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beauty sublurb
Facial Scrubs 3 OF THE BEST LIP BALMS TO PUCKER UP AND KEEP YOUR LIPS CHAP-FREE THIS JANUARY.
Is your complexion looking tired, flaky and dull? Has the party season nally caught up with you? Well it’s time to invest in a decent facial scrub, not only will they revitalise and de-clog your pores; scrubs can also help banish those painful ingrown hairs from shaving. We have found some of the best, exclusively for Suburban readers.
1.
Balm Balm Lip Balm
Facial Scrub £14.50 0208 240 2411 kiehls.com
For an all organic and natural balm the Balm Balm is king. It can also be used as a moisturiser, cleanser and hair tamer. £2.99 balmbalm.com
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New Skin Face Scrub £15.65 mankind.co.uk
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Jojoba Face Scrub £27 mankind.co.uk
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Bullocks Rening Facial Scrub £15 cowshedonline.com
Moa Mini Green Balm Another fantastic balm, hand-made in Iceland. It calms, nourishes, protects and is a 100% organic. £8 thegreenbalm.com
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Pumice Acne Scrub £31.30 mankind.co.uk
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Super-Clean Scrubbing Gel £15 08457 697072 nickelspalondon.co.uk
7. Carmex Lip Balm This balm is now available in a jar, tube and stick. It contains menthol and phenol which will leave your lips tingling for more, so get lippy! £2.50 carmex.co.uk
Walnut Complexion Scrub £25 0845 652959 & bathandunwind.com
15% OFF
bathandunwind.com IN JANUARY. PROMOTIONAL CODE ‘SUBURB’
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Daily Microfoliant £31 0800 591818 dermalogica.co.uk
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With the surge in popularity – largely off the back of celeb publicity – of lip-inating injections, a plethora of (less painful!) specialist lip-enhancing products have hit the beauty shelves. From softening lip balms, to pout plumping concoctions; classic chic lipsticks; trendinspired lip glosses, to versatile lip liners, and even super-smooth, lip waxes… Whether you’re a full-on glamour queen or a minimal make-up fan, there are many delectable things to try. So go on girls, give it some lip!
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1. No.17 Lip Gloss Disco Ball Collection Trio £4.89 boots.com 2
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2. Avon Anew ‘Plumberry’ Youth-Awakening Lipstick SPF 15 | £10 avonshop.co.uk
3. ‘Royal Rajah Ruby’ Lip Colour & matching Lip Liner by OPI £10.75 each lenawhite.co.uk
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4. DuWop Lip Venom £14.50 hqhair.com
5. A Lip Plump Freeze 24-7 £31.25 | spacenk.co.uk 10
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6. Clinique Superbalm Moisturizing Gloss £10 | clinique.co.uk 7. High Shine Lip Plump & Ultra Glossy Lip Plump | £16.95
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theorganicpharmacy.com
BEAUTY Q&A Are you wondering which lash-enhancing mascaras are worth the money? Want to know where to source ethical and natural beauty products?
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8. Origins Conditioning Lip Balm with Turmeric £12.50 | origins.co.uk 9. Creme De La Mer Lip Balm £35 | cremedelamer.co.uk 10. Turbo Balm £10 | thisworks.com 11. Korres Lip Butter £6 | bathandunwind.com 12. Baume De Rose by Terry £31 | spacenk.co.uk
Hoping for an effective skin illuminator? If you have any beauty questions you would like answering, please email them to beauty@
thesuburbmagazine.co.uk Please note: we regret that we can only answer questions those selected to feature in the magazine.
13. Limited Edition Vintage Eight Hour Cream by Elizabeth Arden £16 | Debenhams stores
beauty sublurb
POCKET MONEY
BEAUTY INDULGENCE OF THE MONTH
PLASTIC
PAY DAY Touche Veloutee by Terry | £25
spacenk.co.uk
No.7 Instant Radiance Concealer | £12.48
L’oreal Touche Magique | £6.99
loreal-paris.co.uk
boots.com
GENIUS BRUSH STROKES Concealers have really come a long way. They’re now increasingly hi-tech, effective and application specic – one sort for blemishes and another type for eyes. It’s with radiant and sparkly, bright eyes in mind that I’ve selected three pen design brush-on concealers for your delectation. They are designed to give a bright,
wide-awake appearance – like you’ve just awoken from a long, deep sleep (even after all the seasonal festive frolics!) and contain light-diffusing ingredients for added radiance. Combine with a fantasy eye (candy) look (check out this month’s Beauty Indulgence for inspiration) and – pow! – get the ashbulbs (a) poppin’!
INGENIOUS BEAUTY INNOVATION Inspired by Italian techniques, The DermaSponge is a professional Microdermabrasion product for use in the comfort of your own home. Suitable to use on face & body, by all skin types, I was very impressed by this ingenious innovation, as it made my (winter-dry) skin baby-soft! Another of the many benets is that it helps to rectify a range of
skin issues; including scars & stretch marks. For an extra-luxurious treat, there’s the DermaSponge Special Treatment Kit (£83.48) – a pampering combo of both of the other packages! They’re all (alongside other equally excellent beauty goodies!) exclusively available to purchase from superb site tomakeyougorgeous.co.uk (01444 483277).
COMPETITION
Fancy a utter? Seeing Sugababes and Girls Aloud strut their stuff, and utter their fantastic fantasy lashes in very creative vids, brought on a serious case of eyelash envy! I wondered whether something similar could be bought over the counter. As well as nail bars, in quirky-glam Japan, eyelash bars are also de rigueur (ngers crossed they will reach our shores soon too!), so I naturally looked to the renowned Japanese cosmetics brand Shu Uemura to supply the beauty booty – they’ve created a range of uber-fabulous false lashes from £16, that are made for aunting!
BEAUTY QUANDARY As a special New Year treat for you, we’ve got our lucky – and newly velvety – hands on a DermaSponge (basic) kit – to be in with a chance of winning it email competition@ thesuburbmagazine.co.uk and tell us why you deserve to win. Deadline is by midnight 19 January. Please put DermaSponge in the subject area of your email. Good Luck !
Do you have asian, black or really fair skin, and are fed up with nding it hard to nd a suitable shade of foundation? I have experienced this myself and recommend trying the following ranges: Revlon, Nars, Giorgio Armani, Avon, MAC, COSMETICS a la carte, No. 7 at Boots, Bobbi Brown, Jane Iredale, Daniel Sandler, Shu Uemura, Screenface, Stila. Also, the Fashion Fair brand (debenhams.com) is specically for asian & black skins, and Dainty Doll – a cutely packaged collaboration between cult cosmetics line Jelly Pong Pong and polished pop princess, Nicola Roberts from Girls Aloud – has been created to suit creamy porcelain skin tones (asos.com).
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Are you aged between 14 -18 and interested in community issues? Interested in building your own Bradford? If so, we challenge you to build your own Bradford. and ont Community Tru st, BEAP ip in partnership with Clarem rsh tne Par ms nity tea in mu rk Com wo l ent wil Acc n. You ject is launching a competitio Enterprising Communities Pro You’ll design rd. dfo Bra in e fac ple as young peo to explore issues which you tre. dford at our construction cen and then build your own Bra n construction tutors, and gai You will work with qualified the for e Nintendo DS prizes support all the way. We hav hing to lose! Get creative not e hav winning team – you and starting building! 4 729 810 or: Contact Sofia Ashraf on 0780
sofia.ashraf@accentgroup.org for an application form.
Accent Community Engagement (ACE) project is funded by Bradford Council as part of the Building Capacity through Cohesion and Inclusion Programme.
culture
CRACKING COCAINE It’s Friday night at the end of a long week. You’re out with friends and one of them takes a line of cocaine… do you turn a blind eye? Or do you tell them it’s bad for them? Do you even know what the risks are? Most probably not, according to the government. Last month the government launched a one million pound television and online advertising campaign to encourage young people, to nd out the facts about the drug. Minister for Children and Young People Delyth Morgan says: ‘Many young people wrongly associate cocaine with celebrities and success, so it’s really important that this new FRANK campaign gives a more balanced view.’ Cocaine use has slowly increased, replacing ecstasy as the clubber’s drug of choice. According to Home Ofce gures the proportion of adults using cocaine increased from 0.6 percent in 1996 to 2.3 percent in 2007- 2008. It’s more readily available than it was ten years ago and street prices have fallen. One clubber in Leeds revealed: ‘It used to be £50 or £60 a gram, now it’s as cheap as £30. When you take drugs,
you know how many people are on it. And everyone does it now’. So what’s the appeal? Cocaine triggers the release of chemicals already present in the body giving a euphoric high. But this puts a strain on the heart. Research published in the medical journal Circulation suggests a quarter of heart attacks among the under 30s are due to regular cocaine use rather than general coronary artery disease. Many hospitals are seeing an increase in so-called ‘coke strokes’ ranging from acute chest pains to heart attacks.
but I had a physical pain too, I had pressure on my chest. I got in a taxi and as I relaxed I expected the pains to go away, but they didn’t. Everyone was trying to convince me not to go, saying I couldn’t go to hospital when I had taken drugs. I didn’t listen. I asked the taxi driver to take me to hospital then I started to feel like I was losing consciousness. The pain was now quite severe. Like someone was sat on my chest. I explained everything to the doctor and they started doing ECG tests. I was hooked up to a heart monitor and could hear every one of my heart beats. It was scary to hear how fast it was going.’
Lucy* a 29 year old civil servant from West Yorkshire knows this only too well. She enjoyed taking cocaine at weekends but on one night out last summer she was admitted to A&E: ‘I rst noticed something wasn’t right in the club. Not only was my heart rate beating really fast
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culture
Lucy had experienced heart spasms. This is where the arteries become narrow and less blood is able to travel to the heart. Persistent heart spasms can ultimately result in a heart attack. Lucy has since recovered. But hers is a cautionary tale: ‘I would say if you even feel slightly unwell or ‘different’ to how you usually do, especially if you feel pain, just go to the hospital and get yourself checked out. I do wonder and worry what would have happened to me had I not gone to hospital. My husband and I were in tears as it really shook me up.’ But of course it’s not just individuals here in the UK that are affected by cocaine. According to Home Ofce gures 80 percent of cocaine comes from Colombia. The Home Ofce comments that increased demand for the drug in Britain is driving armed violence there. Damaging the environment and causing water contamination. Colombian vice-president Francisco Santos Calderon says: ‘Over the past 20 years a rainforest double the size of Wales has been lost in Colombia and Peru to produce cocaine. Each time someone in the UK consumes one gram of cocaine, they become responsible for the destruction of four square metres of rainforest. Anyone living a ‘green’ lifestyle should consider the environmental impact of using cocaine, which is not a victimless drug.’ And here perhaps lies the most uncomfortable point. The victims of cocaine are not only those who take it here but people in a distant land. People witnessing violence and destruction to their surroundings. People who possibly don’t take cocaine at all. By Parveen Ahmed
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT FRANK 0800 77 66 00 British Heart Foundation 0845 070 8070
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street nArCOTiCs CANNABIS
The cannabis sativa plant or resin from it. Cannabis is a relaxant but stronger forms can also cause hallucinations and panic attacks. CLASS: C MAXIMUM PENALTY: Two years in prison, plus an unlimited ne.
CRACK
Cocaine mixed with baking soda to form smoke-able lumps. Gives an intense high but is very addictive and causes paranoia and aggression. CLASS: A MAXIMUM PENALTY: Seven years in prison; supplying someone else: Life sentence and unlimited ne.
ECSTASY
MDMA or similar man-made chemicals. Causes adrenaline rushes and feelings of well-being but also anxiety and high body temperature. CLASS: A MAXIMUM PENALTY: Seven years in prison; supplying someone else: Life sentence and unlimited ne.
HEROIN
Sedative made from the opium Poppy. Can be smoked or injected. Users feel lethargic and content but experience severe cravings for the drug. CLASS: A MAXIMUM PENALTY: Seven years in prison; supplying someone else: Life sentence and unlimited ne.
KETAMINE
Short-acting but powerful general aesthetic which depresses the nervous system and causes a temporary loss of body sensation. It can give the user a oating feeling as if the mind and body have been separated. CLASS: C MAXIMUM PENALTY: Two years in prison; supplying: Fourteen years in prison and an unlimited ne.
LSD
A man-made drug which has the same effect on perception. Effects include hallucinations and loss of sense of time. A “bad trip” can cause anxiety. CLASS: A MAXIMUM PENALTY: Seven years in prison; supplying someone else: Life sentence and unlimited ne.
CRYSTAL METH
Like Cocaine and amphetamines, Crystal Meth has stimulant properties but has a much longer effect on the body. It can bring on a feeling of exhilaration and produces increased arousal and activity levels.
CLASS: A MAXIMUM PENALTY: Seven years in prison; supplying someone else: Life sentence and unlimited ne.
rty a p a e t ea s i n a g r O ge n a h c p and hel e. f i l s ’ d l i a ch
More than 165 million cups of tea are enjoyed in the UK every single day. You can help to ensure as many of them as possible are poured to help end cruelty to children. www.nspcc.org.uk/stopfortea
food
SUPER With the beginning of the new year we focus on a variety of foods that are benecial to our health, they are known as ‘superfoods’. From avocados to spinach, and watercress to blueberries, all these ‘superfoods’ have key ingredients which help us maintain healthy diets, lower cholesterol levels and are considered particularly nutritious. Learn how these ‘superfoods’ can help you lose weight, alkalize your digestive system, improve your vision, increase your mental abilities and more.
SPINACH Key Nutrients: Vitamins B1, B2, B3, B5, C, E, K and rich in Calcium and Iron. Uses: Spinach is low in calories, yet extremely high in vitamins, minerals and other phytonutrients (natural plant chemicals with human nutritional value). They help to maintain healthy hair and skin membranes, control fat metabolism and promote wound healings. Unlike a handful of other nutrient-dense health foods (such as aloe vera and spirulina), spinach is readily accessible to all, available almost everywhere in the world today as a whole food, rather than only as a processed supplement, and is a low priced, affordable vegetable. How: Can of course be cooked, boiled, and steamed. Suburb favourite is spinach cooked with lentils, Kashmiri style.
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AVOCADOS Key Nutrients: Potassium, Vitamins B, E and K, Uses: Avocados are brimming with essential nutrients and when eaten with other foods, avocados enable the body to better absorb cancer cells. Eating avocados has been shown to lower cholesterol levels and they are a rich source of oleic acid, which offers signicant protection against breast cancer. The potassium content in avocados regulates blood pressure and helps guard against heart disease and strokes. How: The avocado makes an excellent substitute for meats in sandwiches and salads because of its high fat content. It can also be used for milkshakes, icecreams and other desserts.
BROCCOLI Key Nutrients: Vitamin C, Beta-carotene, Lutein, Folate. Uses: Broccoli is usually boiled, steamed or eaten raw. Although boiling has been shown to reduce the levels of suspected anti-cancer compounds in broccoli, other preparation methods such as steaming, microwaving, and stirfrying have been shown not to reduce the presence of these compounds. Just two orets - raw or lightly cooked - count as a veggie portion. How: Broccoli can of course be cooked in a variety of ways, as mentioned above. It can be cooked in stirfry’s, included in salads and pasta dishes.
ROSE HIPS Key Nutrients: Vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, C and K, compounds that combat heart disease and chronic bowel disorders. Uses: Experts say the red berries reduce the inammation caused by many illnesses associated with growing old. They have been used in cooking and alternative medicine for centuries. Now research shows how rose hips can play a key health role, particularly by helping those plagued by rheumatoid arthritis. How: Rose hips can be used in a variety of products: From herbal tea and jam, to pies and bread.
food
YOGHURT Key Nutrients: Lactobacillus Asidophilus, Rhamnosus, Thermophilus, Bidobacteria
BLUEBERRIES
Key Nutrients: Iron, Manganese, Vitamins C and E. Uses: It is thought that blueberries play a pivotal role in preventing cancer and heart disease due to compounds found in the berries protecting your body’s DNA from serious damage. They can help reduce the damage done after a stroke, improve eye sight and prevent urinary tract infections and improve eye sight. How: The fruit can be used to make milkshakes, smoothies and jam.
FLAX SEED Key Nutrients: Soluble and insoluble Fibre, Iron, Vitamins E and B, Calcium, Potassium and Zinc. Uses: Flax seed has an amazing nutritional value and contains alpha-linolenic acid which is a plant-based essential omega-3 fatty acid believed to boost insulin sensitivity inside muscle cells. How: Can be used as a replacement for one egg in baking, can be mixed in with oatmeal, yoghurt or any other food where a nutty avour is appropriate.
Uses: Besides being tasty, yoghurt is one of the healthiest foods you can feed your family. Yoghurt has nutritional benets beyond those of milk: people who are moderately lactose intolerant can enjoy yoghurt without ill effects, because the lactose in the milk precursor is converted to lactic acid by the bacterial culture. Yoghurt is believed to promote healthy gums, possibly because of the pro-biotic effect of lactic acids present in yoghurt. How: As a drink – Lassi, smoothies, can be made into a dip and also frozen for a scrumptious dessert.
NONI FRUIT Key Nutrients: Vitamin C, B3, Iron, Potassium, Calcium Uses: Noni Fruit was used for thousands of years in the South Pacic as a tonic that boosts the immune system and supports the entire body by ushing toxins from the kidneys. Now, many people claim that it helps a wide range of symptoms, including poor digestion, high blood pressure, gout and respiratory problems. How: Noni seed oil may have useful properties when applied topically on skin, e.g. anti-inammation and acne reduction, although this hasn’t been scientically proven just yet!
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sports
BOTTOM AT CHRISTMAS,
DOWN IN MAY?
This season’s FA Barclaycard Premiership is fast becoming the most hotly contested in years. Fact. At the top, Liverpool are threatening to do what they haven’t in nearly 20 years, whilst at the other end, only a handful of points separate the entire bottom half. By Mark Roberts From one week to the next it seems that there is a new ‘club in crisis’. Bolton were the team that couldn’t buy a goal, eight in two games put an end to that storyline and moved them up to seventh in the table. However, the Trotter’s slump paled into insignicance compared to those suffered by Tottenham and Newcastle. Kevin Keegan, Geordie messiah, quit, citing that his inuence at the club was being undermined. Down south, double UEFA Cup winning Juande Ramos was sacked after steering Spurs to their worst ever start to a season. Two of the countries biggest clubs were in danger of implosion. That was until two of the most out-of-lefteld appointments in premiership history. Joe Kinnear, longtime ally of Dennis Wise was thrust into the Tyneside hot seat after failing to turn around the fortunes of lowly Nottingham Forest, whilst Harry Redknapp did the dirty on Portsmouth, again, and made the switch from Fratton Park to White Hart Lane overnight, literally. Both have since staged somewhat
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sports
of a revival, passing on the baton of crisis to their competition. Blackburn are now nine games without a win and if Manchester City were not still high on the joys of Arabian gold they would be knee-deep in crisis talk given their disappointing position. Sunderland are managerless after Keano joined the growing list of managerial casualties by texting his resignation to the Mackem board, whilst West Brom continue to defy the experts by attempting to pull off a style of football that those in the know feel will bring them many plaudits, but no points. The race to vacate the foot of the table is every bit a vital one as it is a stuttering one. No team looks really that fussed on moving up the charts, despite the inevitable fate that awaits them if they don’t. Of course I am alluding to the Christmas prophecy that no Premiership manager ever wants to receive. ‘Tis the season to be jolly don’t you know! ‘Tis also the season when journos up and down the country regurgitate that immortal, all-conquering statistic – ‘The team that is bottom at Christmas always goes down.’ If you’re a West Brom fan then you will argue, with some degree of inner trepidation, that the omens favour your team. Yours is indeed the only team to have broken the Christmas jinx, but do you fancy your chances of doing it again? Can lightning strike twice. The scenes at The Hawthorns in 2005 as the Baggies escaped relegation on the nal day are some of the most abiding of premiership memories. But are they capable of repeating
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the feat a second time? Recent years have broken the other great football myth about teams being ‘too good to go down’, so there are plenty of teams who will be looking increasingly worried as their advent calendars run low, just ask Leeds or Shefeld Wednesday fans. Of the Premiership new boys this season, Hull have acquitted themselves the better so far and, barring a slump of epic proportions, look a safe bet to be in with the big boys again next year. Stoke have caused problems
for near enough everyone with their direct style and javelin tactics and also look like remaining at the top of the table for another season. The odds are then that the relegation candidates will not come from the group of usual suspects. The next month or so will be fascinating. Tottenham and Newcastle have both declared intent to use the tightness of the current standings to their advantage and launch an assault on the UEFA Cup spots but, on current form, they
are equally as likely to be embroiled in the scrap at the bottom. The transfer window could make or break a lot of the strugglers. Everyone will be looking to see how Manchester City spend their new found wealth, with any number of marquee signings already having been talked about. City may be better looking to sign a group of players who are willing to roll their sleeves up and ensure that the club do not drop further into trouble and do not become the biggest casualty of the season.
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interiors
DE -JUNK
YOUR LIFE by Lizzie Whyman
If festive excess and unwanted gifts have
Establishe d & Sons Sta £1,724.00 - £2,587.0 ck 0 | nest.c o.u
k
left you feeling snowed under, there’s no better time to pack up the naff dancing Santa once and for all and embrace new beginnings. A resolution to clear the clutter
Plan of attack
Aim to give away ten items each week
could just bring about your best year yet.
Assess your possessions objectively. If you don’t use it, or it’s not aesthetically pleasing, lose it.
You know you need a
Keep a vision of how your home will look once it’s done.
You’re short of places to hide stuff when guests stay.
Set achievable targets – tackle one wardrobe or cupboard at a time. Set yourself mini ten minute challenges (and get the family involved.) Aim to cull your clothes by 50 percent.
You resort to buying replacements for elusive items..
What you choose to surround yourself with says a lot about you. A cluttered home can make you feel tired and sluggish, even angry and out of control – it keeps you where you are, threatening your ability to create new opportunities for yourself. Clutter can even lead to health problems, making you feel congested, depressed and overwhelmed. Feng Shui practitioners believe that areas of the home reect aspects of our lives and that negative energy produced by clutter can disrupt or block the ow of events. If your wardrobe is full of clothes that no longer t; it’s time to start living in the present.
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If you nd the process emotional, pack away items for six months. If you don’t miss them, get rid.
clearout when…
Your wardrobe is full of clothes you don’t wear You keep broken items, planning to x them one day. Doors don’t open or close properly.
interiors
Kiev CD Cabinet £1275 | funktionalley.com
Conceal Shelf From £11.50 snow-home.co.uk
Clear C £230 ut Wall M o | fun ktion unted Sto alley. com rage Unit
Curved CD Rack £399 | Made to order robhalsalldesign.com or info@robhalsalldesign.c o.uk
lves Random She The MDF Italia .uk co d. el f egoshe £1240.00 | pr
Milk Bottle: French Glass From £6.50 s.com re-foundobject
Hot Trends for 2009 Funky Brights Bold retro inspired pieces will be key. Checkout Heals and The London Cushion Company. Vintage Chic This look is hot in fashion and the trend continues into interiors. Check out Next and Graham & Brown. Geometrics Art Deco pieces will be bang on trend, but don’t go overboard keep it simple for an understated look. Get to John Lewis and Ikea for inspiration.
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