THE ORBITAL OCTOBER 2012
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THE OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER OF THE STUDENTS’ UNION ROYAL HOLLOWAY, UNIVERSITY OF LONDON
Coroner’s verdict prompts renewed calls for A30 safety overhaul - Kayleigh Sugar death ruled “tragic accident” - MEP gives backing to campaign for greater pedestrian safety at crossroads Alex Pegler Deputy Editor AN INQUEST into the death of fourth year geology student Kayleigh Sugar heard that she was fatally struck by a black Mini Cooper as she made her way to the Students’ Union on 2 March. Surrey Coroner Richard Travers ruled that the 22-yearold had run into the carriageway at the crossroads between St Jude’s Road and Egham Hill (A30) in an event described as a “tragic accident”. Mr Travers said Kayleigh had been drinking at a party and had the intention of walking to the Students’ Union for a function night. The incident has sparked fresh calls from safety activists who claim the installation of a
IN NUMBERS
412
The number of sign-ups the Orbital received at the start of this academic year.
16
The number of candidates who ran in the first cross campus Surhul elections of the year.
pelican crossing would reduce the risk of road deaths in the vicinity of Royal Holloway. There are currently traffic lights at the crossroads although campaigners say they do not provide sufficient breaks in the traffic for pedestrians to cross in safety. The driver of the Mini, Laura Clitheroe, had been out for dinner with a friend and was returning home when the geology student ran into the road. Coroner Travers said: “It was not clear how much alcohol Miss Sugar had consumed throughout the evening. “What is clear is that having left the party she and her friend were anxious to get into the queue at the Students’ Union. “I know that in different continued page 3
- Fourth year student killed en route to SU - College vows to put pressure on Surrey Council to fast-track improvements
The Englefield Green crossroads at rush hour
COMMENT P9: The death penalty Imogen Tyreman and Hannah Russell give their take on capital punishment around the world.
ARTS P23: Music review Angus Wyatt profiles British band Mumford and Sons’ eagerly-awaited second album offering Babel.
FEATURES P10-11: Free speech A debate exploring the merits and potential problems of allowing complete freedom of expression.
P13: Puzzles Try your hand at our sudokus, our crossword and a Halloween-themed wordsearch.
LIFESTYLE P20: “KISS” James Corbyn reveals the secrets behind getting closer to achieving bodybuilding perfection.
SPORTS & SOCS P27: In the spotlight A look at the Historical Re-enactment society and what its got planned over the coming months.
P29: Lance Armstrong An overview of the doping scandal that has shaken global sport to its core this year.
SERIES 26
ISSUE 3