Brig Newspaper: Volume 53 Issue 2

Approximately 70,000 employees at 150 universities in the UK will go on strike for 18 days in February and March, according to a UCU announcement.

These are to be in protest of salary, working conditions, and concerns over pensions.

The exact dates have yet to be determined but the UCU has said they will announce this in the following weeks.

This follows three days of strike action in November.

The union are calling to stop the use of unstable contracts as well as a significant pay increase to address the cost-of-living crisis.

After more than ten years of pay rises below the rate of inflation, employers applied a wage.....

UCU members on strike in November .

Image credit: UCU

EDITORIAL

By Isla Glen EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

WELCOME to Brig’s first edition of 2023.

Creating a 32-page newspaper is no easy feat and throughout the process I’ve found myself repeating the phrase “It’ll all be fine” over and over again. Those are the wise words of Morag Lindsay, a fantastic journalist who taught me most of what I know alongside Alex Watson and Marc Deanie. Without them, I wouldn’t have the confidence to lead my team or the reassuring words to stop me from giving up.

Brig has transformed since it was created in 1969. I spent an entire evening crouched over old copies, staring at the designs and stories. Each edition came with a new team who loved what they did as much as the last – despite the stress of it all.

That’s what I love most about journalism, the passion. Although I hate the word itself as it’s extremely overused, the journalism industry is full of it. There’s nothing like the buzz of the newsroom, especially when approaching a deadline.

It’s incredible to be a part of a student publication that works year after year on a completely voluntary basis, purely because we love what we do and want to improve. It’s thanks to great journalists who part with their knowledge that we’re able to better ourselves again and again.

On Tuesday 24 January at 7pm we will be hosting our annual ‘Big Brig Talk’ in the Logie Lecture Theatre. This year we are welcoming back Charlie Harris (Scottish Swimming), Jennifer Hale (The Courier), Dan Vevers (Daily Record), Abigail Taylor (STV) and Harry Williamson (Scottish Sun). It’s open to all, so please come along.

I’d like to dedicate this edition of Brig to all of the journalists who give back to student reporters. We appreciate your help and patience more than you know. www.brignews.com

ALMOST 50% OF THE UNIVERSITY OF STIRLING’S INVESTMENTS ARE LINKED TO FOSSIL FUELS

FROM FRONT PAGE

The University of Stirling has invested nearly £420,000 in companies linked to fossil fuels through the investment manager Rathbones in 2022, despite pledging to only invest in "organisations whose financial activities include policies and controls to protect the environment".

Figures uncovered through a Freedom of Information request show that the University of Stirling holds £419,637 of investments in funds linked to companies that have been criticised for their unethical behaviour, out of a total investment of £1,070,192. Among the companies involved are Foreign & Colonial, JP Morgan Chase and Severn Trent.

Data shows that nearly one-tenth of the university's investments are in Foreign & Colonial Investment Trust, a fund owned by the Bank of Montreal. The Canadian bank is allegedly the fifth largest financier of the oil sands. It is investing billions of dollars into production of one of the earth’s most climate-damaging fuel sources. The University of Stirling is indirectly investing

£102,287 in one of the most powerful and carbon-heavy banks in North America.

Stirling also owns £81,294 worth of shares in JP Morgan Assets Managers Fund. As of 2022, JP Morgan is the largest lender to the fossil fuel industry in the world. The company has put a total of $268bn into coal, oil and gas firms since 2017, being the biggest amount of money a bank has ever put in fossil fuels industries, according to a study by Rainforest Action Network.

Although the University of Stirling is “committed to socially responsible investment” according to official statements, the university’s endowment fund includes £23,909 invested in iShares, a fund owned by BlackRock. This company holds one of the world's largest fossil fuel investment portfolios, with $87bn behind the industry.

Other investments comprise Capital Group, that have opposed "92% of climate-related shareholder motions at fossil fuel companies between 2015 and 2019", according to The Guardian and Legal & General Unit Trust, the top UK coal investor who is not heeding calls to

stop investing in new oil, coal and gas production.

The University does not directly invest in the companies referred to above, rather investments are managed by Rathbones Investment Managers. The university divested more than £4,500 from Premier Oil and Cairn Energy in 2016, and took a pledge in 2019 to stop all direct fossil fuel investments.

The 2022 list of investments does not include HSBC, which was one of the main investments of 2021. This is a positive step towards reaching their commitment to Net-Zero by 2040, as HSBC is another one of the biggest financiers of fossil fuels in the world.

An ongoing campaign led by students from the society Global Justice Stirling and supported by the Students’ Union is aiming at trying to improve the Socially Responsible Investment Policy of the university, in collaboration with the Finance Department. The main demand is to extend this policy and to divest from all indirect unethical investments.

A University of Stirling spokesperson said: “The University of Stirling has in place a Socially Responsible

Investment Policy (SRIP) and is committed to ensuring that it pursues an ethical approach to investment, in accordance with the University’s Ethical Code.

“As set out in the SRIP, the University does not invest directly in fossil fuel companies and is committed to eliminating the potential for indirect investments to be made in companies prohibited under our SRIP.”

Stirling University was ranked 60 out of 153 universities in the People and Planet Universities League 2022, with a scorecard displaying a rate of 58% on ethical investment. This is a much better score than last year, where it ranked 97th with a poor 10% rate on ethical investment.

People and Planet explained that the University of Stirling scored an alarming 0/15% for including student representation on their investment committee, publicly listing their investments annually and providing opportunities for the wider student body and staff community to engage with the policy.

By Carla Poulaert

UoS previously pledged to invest in "organisations whose financial activities include policies and controls to protect the environment". Image credit: Pexels

UNIVERSITY UNION SET TO STRIKE FOR 18 DAYS

By Carly McKim

Approximately 70,000 employees at 150 universities in the UK will go on strike for 18 days in February and March, according to a UCU announcement.

These are to be in protest of salary, working conditions, and concerns over pensions.

The exact dates have yet to be determined but the UCU has said they will announce this in the following weeks.

This follows three days of strike action in November.

The union are calling to stop the use of unstable contracts as well as a significant pay increase to address the cost-of-living crisis.

After more than ten years of pay rises below the rate of inflation, employers applied a wage increase of 3% this year.

A pay offer made during discussions with employers, worth between 4-5%, was insufficient. In response to the offer, UCU general secretary Jo Grady said:

"Let me get straight to the point –this is not enough.

“It doesn’t cover last year and it

doesn’t do enough to mitigate either the cost-of-living crisis or the years of pay decline our members have suffered.

“I will be recommending to our higher education committee that we reject this offer and seek further improvements.”

In regards to pensions, the union is demanding that cuts made last year are to be revoked as members are to lose approximately 35% of their funds.

On the announcement that 18 days of action would go ahead, Grady said: “’Today our union came together to back an unprecedented programme of escalating strike action.

“The clock is now ticking for the sector to produce a deal or be hit with widespread disruption.

“University staff dedicate their lives to education and they want to get back to work, but that will only happen if university vice-chancellors use the vast wealth of the sector to address over a decade of falling pay, rampant insecure employment practices and devastating pension cuts.

“The choice is theirs.”

STIRLING BUSINESSES BEAR THE BRUNT OF RISING ENERGY COSTS

By Rebecca Kerr NEWS EDITOR

Stirling restaurant ‘Tutti Pizza’ has announced they will be reducing their opening hours, following a soar in UK energy prices.

The pizza restaurant will now be open only on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays.

This is in attempt to “remain profitable”, after their usual £1000 monthly energy bill rose to “a crippling £4000” in November.

Tutti Pizza opened shop on Dumbarton Road in February last year, specialising in authentic Neapolitan pizza for a student-friendly price.

Tutti Pizza regulars took to social media to express their sadness at the reduced opening hours, with one saying: “That is a shame you have to do this.”

Another wrote: “Jeez, there’s going to be nowhere left!”

This comes after fellow Stirling business ‘HBW Coffee’ announced they would be scrapping their mostly vegan business model and introducing meat products to their menu, in attempt to attract more customers and stay afloat amid the cost of living crisis.

The owner of HBW Coffee, Conor, said: “It’s tricky to see ahead to what is to become of Stirling’s small business scene in the next five or so years. The cost of living crisis has got us all fairly scared.”

The UK Government introduced their ‘Energy Bill Relief Scheme’ back in September which granted businesses a discount on wholesale gas and electricity prices. The scheme runs until March 2023.

However, Stirling MP Alyn Smith is calling for a “much longer-term strategy” than the temporary Energy Bill Relief Scheme, as he worries that the soar in energy prices is “exacerbating business closures at record levels.”

Recent figures from the Centre for Retail Research show that over 17,000 stores and businesses closed across the UK in 2022 – up almost 50% from 2021 during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Alyn Smith MP said: “The UK energy market is demonstrably broken, for households and businesses alike. State support schemes have been sluggish and should have gone further, and many otherwise viable businesses are facing financial ruin through no fault of their own.

“Years of underinvestment, a broken privatised energy market and poor strategic oversight of energy supply, source and storage by the UK Government has left Stirling, along with the rest of energy-rich Scotland, vulnerable to this global shock.

“I’ll be standing up for Stirling’s communities and businesses, and holding the UK Government’s feet to the fire.”

Tutti Pizza opened shop on Dunbarton Road in Febuary last year. Image credit: Tutti Pizza

STIRLING UNION LAUNCH COMMUNITY FRIDGE TO TACKLE STUDENT HARDSHIP

The University of Stirling’s Union has launched a community fridge and pantry to alleviate food poverty and financial stress during the cost of living crisis.

On opening day, the pantry was stocked with £150 worth of food and by evening it had been taken.

The Union Community Food Initiative was funded by alumni through the Stirling Fund and opened on November 28 next to the Green and Blue Space sustainability shop.

The pantry is being stocked by the Union until their partnership with FareShare – a charity that distributes surplus food – begins and provides weekly supplies.

A spokesperson for the Union said: “The fridge and pantry have been getting used significantly with any food donated or restocks made in the morning, having been taken by the afternoon of that day.

“We have received numerous donations from volunteers of the app Olio which has been supportive and we are in the process of confirming our membership with the charity FareShare.

“Until the FareShare membership is in place we have been bridging the gap through weekly fridge and pantry restocks.

“Following months of work and planning, we are excited that students now have access to this space, particularly as we enter winter, and to support them during the cost of living crisis.

“The reality is food poverty is hitting students hard, we hope the Community Food Initiative can be there to lessen the strain and provide support for students.”

Research from the National Union of Students (NUS) revealed that one in three students are left with just £50 a month after paying

rent and bills.

More than one in ten students are reportedly also using food banks.

Donations for the fridge or pantry can be dropped off at the Green & Blue Space during opening hours or given to the Vice President Communities or Union President if given prior notice.

Any food donated should be sealed and within the use-by date, unless marked ‘best before’ and in good condition.

As the Community Food Initiative enters its second phase, the Union are hoping to expand their offering and potentially provide several free meals per week.

They aim to work with student societies and campaigns to “ensure students’ voices are at the forefront”.

By Isla Glen EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

STIRLING UNION CONDEMNS UK BLOCK OF GENDER RECOGNITION REFORM BILL

By Isla Glen EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

The University of Stirling Students’ Union has moved to support the Gender Recognition Reform (Scotland) Bill that was blocked by the UK Government last week.

The Union signed the National Union of Students Scotland’s open letter to the government and urged student societies to do the same in support of trans and non-binary students.

The letter called the block “undemocratic and unjustifiable” and warned the proposal could ruin the UK’s reputation on LGBT+ rights.

The bill was passed on December 22 and is designed to make it easier for transgender people to acquire a gender recognition certificate by introducing a system of self-declaration rather than a medical diagnosis of gender dysphoria.

It will also lower the minimum age to 16 and reduce the amount of time required for an applicant to live as their chosen gender.

The block has been branded as a “full-frontal attack” on the Scottish Parliament by First Minister Nicola Sturgeon.

The Union said: “Student unions have always been at the forefront of the fight for progress and the fight against discrimination.

“We condemn the government’s decision to block this bill and stand in solidarity with trans and non-binary students and people across the country.

“As Sabbatical Officers, we are proud to unite to fight this undemocratic and unjustifiable action to stop this bill.

“Our hope is that alongside the LGBTQ+ community and allies nationally and across the world, the students of Stirling come together to resist this injustice and

discrimination.”

The decision was supported by the University of Stirling’s LGBTQ+ Society, who said: “The UK’s block is a disgusting act which really shows the persisting problem of transphobia still present in the country.

“The amount of support for such a block is frankly terrifying to us. The fact that people would support such a violation of trans people’s right to be themselves and dignity is incomprehensible.

“That being said we are glad to be part of a union that is supportive of its trans and non-binary students."

The Union had previously expressed disappointment after the University Chancellor spoke out against proposed reforms to the Act.While the UK Government has suggested that the Scottish Government could bring back an amended bill for reconsideration, Nicola Sturgeon has said the case would “inevitably end up in court”.

STIRLING PARKRUN LAYS JANUARY BLUES TO REST

Nearly 500 walkers, joggers and sprinters celebrated the festive period at the University of Stirling Parkrun over the Christmas and New Year weekends.

With Christmas Day and New Year’s Day both falling on a Sunday, Parkrun organisers globally had the opportunity to host a quadruplet of five-kilometre loops between the end of 2022 and beginning of 2023.

The decision to host an additional Parkrun to welcome in the New Year was seemingly a huge success, with 137 people crossing the relentless uphill loch-side gradient to start their year in the best possible way, in spite of the grey skies.

The festive atmosphere is tribute to the relaxed nature of the weekly fixture, with run director Colin Sinclair complimenting the multiple Santa and Elf costumes present on December 24.

Though it might be best to keep those yule log themed neoprene running tights in the loft for the next 11 months, there’s certainly no risk of Parkrun losing its appeal. Parkrun operate on a run, jog or walk basis and dogs are even welcome.

Speaking to Colin about the decision to take up the opportunity of hosting an extra event on New Year’s Day, he emphasised the need for compromise; participants see New Years and Christmas Day as chances to get “additional runs in”, yet Parkrun cannot function without the all-important volunteers

who provide the foundations for the 65 Scottish Parkruns taking place every Saturday morning. Parkrun would fall apart without volunteers, which Colin mentions UOS Parkrun are always in need of. In the end, Stirling Parkrun organisers decided to take both the concerns of runners and volunteers into consideration, choosing to host a New Year run due to lack of alternatives at Plean and Falkirk.

Ready to celebrate their 100th event mid-February, the trajectory of UOS Parkrun continues to be a positive one, and furthermore a positive choice for Stirling students moving into 2023.

The success of Stirling’s first festive triple is evidence for the attractivity of a 5k loop navigating the picturesque Airthrey, whether that be incentivised by the unrivalled morning views over Dumyat, the PB or the postrun coffee at Nourish. A provenly addictive hobby, an especially dedicated few have even gone on to collect the esteemed “Albateer” accolade and cross the finish line at every Scottish Parkrun.

Stirling Parkrun begins at 9:30a.m every Saturday from the boat house opposite the Swimming Centre with an introductory talk at 9:20a.m for first timers, providing a warm welcome for runners of all abilities.

By Frank Baker

Stirling Parkrun will celebrate its 100th event in February. Image credit: Rachel Matthews / University of Stirling Parkrun

"The reality is food poverty is hitting students hard" . Image credit: Stirling Students' Union

THE UNIVERSITY OF STIRLING IS THE ‘ONLY UNIVERSITY IN SCOTLAND’

By Andrew Robson NEWS EDITOR

According to a Scottish comedian the University of Stirling is the ‘only university in Scotland’.

Speaking on GB News, Leo Kearse said: “Aberdeen University isn’t a real university. The University of Stirling is the only university in Scotland.”

Presenters Andrew Doyle and Nick Dixon are joined by Kearse as they react to an article in The Times where it is revealed that Aberdeen University has introduced a trigger warning for the children’s fantasy novel Peter Pan. The University suggested that the book could be “emotionally challenging.”

In a discussion about the introduction of content warnings on the children’s books, Kearse said: “Aberdeen University is not for five-year-olds, this is for young

adults, students are going there.”

“This clearly isn’t something that should be challenging, even for six-year-olds.”

Other books given content warnings include The Railway Children, Treasure Island and The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.

Host of the show Andrew Doyle adds: “All of this sort of stuff is so obviously self-discrediting.

“If a university starts doing this, they surely know that people are going to ridicule them, and they can’t complain when they do.”

Comic Nick Dixon then quips: “Peter Pan never grows up and these students never want to grow up apparently.”

Aberdeen University outlines that content warnings are issued on “material you may find distressing on issues including racism, sexism, ableism, homophobia, colonialism, slavery, violence.”

As the discussion concludes Kearse proclaims that the University of Stirling is the only university in Scotland.

Kearse, who describes himself as “one of the UK’s few openly rightwing comedians” also commented on Twitter. He said: “Aberdeen University is a creche for babies who need a trigger warning that Peter Pan might make them cry.”

Speaking to the P&J, a spokesperson for the University of Aberdeen said: “Our guidelines on content warnings were developed in collaboration with student representatives and we have never had any complaints about them – on the contrary students have expressed their admiration for our approach.

“Our content warnings reflect the fact that every student is different, and do not seek to tell them what they should or should not find challenging.”

CHANGES TO CUSTOMER FACILITIES AT STIRLING STATION

Facilities at Stirling Train Station will close for two months as part of the ongoing redevelopment project.

The customer lounge and accessible toilet facility on platform 2 closed on Monday 16 January to allow for refurbishment work to take place.

During the closure, the lounge and toilet will be fitted with new floors, walls, and ceilings, with new furniture, also being installed in the lounge.

Customers will still be able to access the accessible toilet facilities on platform 3 while the work takes

place.

Once the refurbishment of the facilities on platform 2 is complete, the toilets and customer lounge on platform 3 will then be refurbished.

The work is part of the wider station redevelopment which includes the construction of a Cyclepoint, a pedestrian plaza and upgrades to the station entrance.

John MacDonald, ScotRail Senior Project Manager, said: “Over the next couple of months, work on the redevelopment of Stirling station will see the refurbishment of the customer facilities on platform 2 and platform 3.

“We thank customers for their patience while this work to refurbish these facilities is completed.

“The wider station redevelopment is an exciting project which will modernise Stirling station by delivering a more people-focused entrance with safe pedestrian and cycle-friendly areas.

“It will also help promote train travel as we continue with our commitment to delivering better more sustainable transport options.”

By Andrew Robson NEWS EDITOR

"Aberdeen University is a creche for babies..". Image credit: GB News

Customers will still be able to access the accessible toilet facilities on platform 3 while the work takes place. Image credit: ScotRail

TORY GOVERNMENT THREATENS RIGHT TO STRIKE WITH ANTI-UNION LEGISLATION

By Jess Urquhart

AFTER Truss and Sunak promised to ban, and we’ve now had both as PM, who’s surprised? Entering 2023, after months of industrial action, Rishi Sunak’s government is attempting to bring strikes to an end, by making any attempt at them illegal, or lose their purpose.

The day that Liz Truss resigned as PM, the Transports Strikes (Minimum Service Levels) Bill had passed its first reading. Now Sunak plans to continue pushing this bill, forcing unions to provide a “minimum level of service” to the public. Considering that the impact of strikes is reliant on their disruption, any legal strike action would become ineffective for unions.

As well as this, the bill will reduce the time limit of strike action by six months and increase the notice period unions must give before striking, from 14 days to 28.

Sunak claims that he is attempting to balance the right to strike with individuals right to not have

their lives disrupted. Under this bill, employers will be able to sack employees who strike, and sue unions, if these minimum levels of service are not met. Whilst the government claims that it does not want to punish striking workers, it will allow their employers to do so.

The minimum level of service can be negotiated between unions and the government, although ministers get the final say if an agreement isn’t met.

Impact in Scotland

Scottish ministers opposed the bill introduced under Truss, branding it “wholly unwelcome” in Scotland, and urged the UK government to exclude Scotland from the legislation. As the bill has continued under Sunak, Deputy Westminster leader for the SNP Mhairi Black has called the bill “immoral” and claimed that anti-trade union laws would be scrapped in an independent Scotland.

She also claims that the SNP has repeatedly called for employment powers to become a devolved

matter. Unless this happens, Scottish workers will be hit just as hard by this bill as workers south of the border.

Response

Both Labour and the SNP have condemned this legislation, as Keir Starmer, the man who sacked his transport secretary for appearing on an RMT picket line, announced that Labour “unequivocally”

supports the right to strike. He claims that as Prime Minister, he would repeal this legislation, and that he doesn’t think that it will be effective in ending disruption.

Mick Lynch from the RMT has claimed that the law will “suppress the freedoms of people in Britain, the right to protest and the right to campaign against poverty”. He also claims that the government is set on “making the trade unions

The government has dropped plans for the original bill due to fear of legal action. An impact assessment, published last year, shows that these plans could push unions to strike even more often. This has been noticed as teachers in England and Wales have voted to strike since the bill was introduced.

UK GOVERNMENT BLOCKS GENDER REFORM BILL

By Dec Magee

AT the end of 2022, the Scottish Parliament passed a bill designed to make it easier for trans people to change their legal sex – the Gender Recognition and Reform (Scotland) Bill.

The bill, which proved controversial to say the least, was one of the most consulted on pieces of legislation in the Scottish Parliament’s history. After five years of consultation, it was passed in Holyrood by a vote with 86 MSPs supporting it, with 39 voting against it.

The UK Government has blocked the bill. It has the power to block bills passed by the Scottish Parliament if it believes that the bill makes changes on reserved matters (i.e. things that only the UK Government can legislate on) or if the bill would indirectly change a law which is reserved to Westminster.

No UK Government has ever used that power before. Meaning we find ourselves in unchartered waters.

Legally, the way forward is not totally clear. First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has said that she is willing to go to the courts to try and get it unblocked. The Scottish Government will say that nothing in the bill changes any aspect of UK-wide law.

Rishi Sunak’s government will likely say that it does. They may argue that because sex is a protected characteristic under the Equality Act, any law which makes

it easier to change sex also impacts or changes slightly how the Equality Act is applied. And thus say that they are legally justified in blocking this bill.

The SNP and the pro-independence side in general, are already arguing that this is evidence of Scotland’s need to break away from the union.

decision from the UK Government. The National Union of Students has also criticised the move; drafting an open letter, which has been signed by six UK student associations, saying that it is “undemocratic and unjustifiable to block the legislation.”

It’s not clear who will be introducing that legislation. The UK Government has announced its intention to bring this controversial practice to an end.

Regardless, you can expect that 2023 will bring fierce debate, both in terms of LGBTQ+ rights and in terms of Scottish independence. And don’t be surprised if these two issues get brought together.

It’s not just those on the pro-independence side that have taken issue with the UK Government’s move. Pro-union MSPs, including Labour’s Monica Lennon and Richard Leonard, and the Scottish Liberal Democrat leader Alex ColeHamilton have also criticised the

the bogeymen of British society and making an enemy of working people”.

"No UK Government has ever used that power before. Meaning we find ourselves in unchartered waters. "

Protest over transgender rights. Image Credit: Nikolas Gannon/Unsplash

Nicola Sturgeon. Image credit: Scottish Politico

Mick Lynch. Image credit: RMT

Rishi Sunak. Image credit: Pippa Fowles / No 10 Downing Street

LULA’S RE-ELECTION AND THE ATTEMPTED COUP ON BRAZILIAN DEMOCRACY

By Ludovico Caminati Engstrom

THOUSANDS of supporters of former President Jair Bolsonaro stormed into Congress, the Supreme Court, and the Presidential palace in the capital city of Brazil, Brasilia.

The attempted coup to overthrow the newly established leftwing government of President Lula is an unprecedented episode in Brazilian history. Thousands of protesters stormed into three key government buildings, vandalizing, and destroying everything in their way. Just like Trump’s supporters did at Capitol Hill almost exactly two years ago, on the 6th of January 2021.

Brazil has been in turmoil since the election results were announced in late October 2022. Bolsonaro never publicly accepted defeat, and after the results were announced he did not comment, possibly signaling to his

supporters the election was fraudulent. This strategy seems to come directly from Trump’s playbook; indeed Bolsonaro is referred to as the “Trump of the tropics”. The former US President used the same strategy after his 2020 defeat against Joe Biden, which led to the insurrection at Capitol Hill. It had been 152 years since a President of the United States had skipped the inauguration of his successor and it only happened four times in history. The symbolic act demonstrates the refusal to accept the new opponent’s mandate as legitimate and could result in Bolsonaro being identified by the investigation as having incited the mob that attempted the coup.

Despite many of Bolsonaro’s supporters claiming the election was rigged, there is a complete lack of evidence or reason why. When Bolsonaro appealed the election results last year, the claims were rejected by the electoral authorities.

The January 6th insurrection in the US shares very similar characteristics to the attempted golpe

in Brasilia, including a subtle incitement from far-right politicians through baseless PR strategies encompassing fake news, half-truths, misinformation, and deception.

They gained the loyalty of misinformed voters that bought into the narrative that the election was rigged and had been unfairly taken away from them and their candidate. The dissatisfaction with the results led to substantial protests around the country and sustained protests in Brasilia that culminated with the attempted overthrow of the oneweek-long government.

The former Brazilian president left the country just before Lula’s official investiture, possibly foreseeing the decision of the Supreme Court to investigate him for inciting the mob. However, following the Supreme Court’s investigation, his stay in the US is at risk.

Forty-five House Democrats have called on President Biden to revoke his diplomatic visa to

stay in the US. His involvement in the attempted coup is under investigation and thus still uncertain, however, President Lula claimed he was involved.

Despite the accusations, Bolsonaro tweeted condemning the assault and denying his involvement. Lula, who was not in the capital city at the time of the assault, quickly responded to the events and called the thousands of people involved “fanatical fascists”, and he said that they “will be found and punished.” Over 1,500 people have already been arrested.

Lula has also voiced concern over the role of the military police of the federal district, which Brasilia is part of and their inaction during the attempted coup. Videos have emerged showing police officers taking pictures and talking to the protesters just outside the Congress.

Lula added that he believes many people in the military were complicit and helped the mob gain access to the building, because the doors were not broken.

On January 1, Luiz Inácio Lula Da Silva, candidate of the Worker’s Party, once again became President of Brazil. The new president, commonly referred to as Lula, has already been President from 2003-2010, when, following corruption charges he was arrested, detained, and prohibited from running in the 2018 election that saw Bolsonaro win.

He spent 500 days in prison, until the Supreme Court annulled his conviction, and allowed him to stand for election again which led him to the presidential victory in 2022. Lula and his supporters are convinced that his detention was politically motivated and interestingly the judge that convicted Lula was given a ministerial position in Bolsonaro’s government.

Following the attempted golpe, the Brazilian people have taken to the streets in a demonstration of support for their newly elected President and to reiterate their full support for democracy in Brazil.

SCOTTISH STUDENT MENTAL HEALTH AT ALL TIME LOW STUDY FINDS

By Rachel Swan POLITICS EDITOR

THE cost-of-living crisis is only getting worse, with student accommodation reaching a breaking point. In Brig’s previous print edition, we discussed how the budget outlined for 2023/24 by the Scottish Government was simply not enough to support the growing needs of students studying in Scotland. NUS Scotland (National Union of Students) issued a statement to this effect, outlining that the cost-of-living crisis was, to paraphrase, forcing students into poverty, and in the worst cases, out of education entirely. Research published back in December illustrated that almost two thirds (64%) of college and university students report having low wellbeing, and

more than half (54%) report moderate, moderately severe or severe symptoms of depression.

The cost-of-living crisis affects much of the spectrum that makes up our society, but the poorest and most vulnerable are at serious risk. Students often come into this category, generally being young, away from home for the first time, and subject to finding a job that is flexible with study. Many find this difficult, if not impossible, to balance with their studies.

Shockingly, over a third (37%) of students reported experiencing food insecurity in the previous 12 months. In Stirling, when our cheapest accommodation on campus is still just under £500 a month, with most students receiving a similar amount from SAAS, how can this ever continue? Many

students on campus are extremely active when it comes to this issue of housing, but with universities tied into deals with the contractor devil, student activism can only take us so far, as we have seen time and time again. A perfect storm of parasitic landlords monopolising on Stirling as a student city off campus, combined with the cost of accommodation on campus has led to a dreadful elitist institution which excludes working class youth from ever truly reaching their potential when poverty is a barrier, no matter how many grants you dish out, or bursaries you offer. It is an untenable position. This is not specific to Stirling. Often students seeking accommodation off campus are either preyed upon by aforementioned landlords or are rejected entirely from applying as strict no

student or flat share conditions are imposed on some rentals.

“You’re beginning to see student housing moving into shortage across the majority of universities – not just the ones you read about,” said Martin Blakey, the chief executive of the student housing charity Unipol.

“The reason is that purpose-built student accommodation has stopped expanding to the extent it was, and we don’t think that’s going to change. At the same time, we think there’s a significant decrease in shared houses – [landlords] are moving back to renting to professionals or leaving the market.”

If studies like these do not motivate the Scottish Government to enforce further rent control, what will?

Student mental health is at an all time low.

Image Credit : Tim Gouw on Unsplash

Flag of Brazil. Image Credit: Matheus Câmara da Silva on Unsplash

By Tash Miller Union President

I remember the feeling well£510 in my account, 10th day of the month, and within moments… pretty much gone. After rent, I would be left with £140 for the rest of the month. Minus bills, £75. Still slightly above the average amount students are left with after rent and bills are paid, but not a lot.

I was lucky, in the sense that I had a part-time job, and that I had saved up over summer when I could live at home rent free. But for many students, that isn’t possible, and that £510 each month is it.

The Scottish Government continues to ignore the all-too-common story of students living in a financial cycle that in any other situation would be considered poverty. Once again, students have been ignored in the Scottish Budget, with the Government’s manifesto promise to increase student support long forgotten. Rather than following through

on their promise, they doubled back, instead delivering real term cuts to university and college budgets.

35% of students in Scotland have considered dropping out of university because of financial pressures, and with the cost-of-living crisis heightening almost weekly, this number is surely rising. Further education is at risk of becoming an asset available exclusively to the wealthy, of becoming the newest token of nepotism.

It always feels like someone is saying ‘now is the time,’ but here we are once again. It’s time to rally and say enough is enough. It’s time to demand that the Scottish Government take notice and take further education seriously.

February 1st, Scottish Parliament. Join us in the Fight For Students. See you there.

(Further details will be available on the Students’ Union social media pages, including transport advice and placard making sessions.)

By Nikita Vance

THE motion for a plant-based Students' Union passed with a 55.4% majority with 127 people in attendance. The survey carried out by Brig with 120 responses from Stirling students shows that when asked whether Studio, Venue and Underground should only sell plant-based products by 2025, 64.2 per cent said no. Even if seven more people voted “Yes” in the survey, the “No” votes would still be majority. Despite General Meetings (GM) having a traditionally low turnout, making it easy for them to be hijacked in favour of personal interest, the Student Union felt this was a fair representation of the direction students want the Union’s food outlets to go. To put it into perspective, the university has a student population of approximately 17,000. The 127 students in attendance account for 0.75% of this.

Less than 1 per cent of the university’s student body should not have this much control over the Union.

By sending out a survey, we managed to reach many students who weren’t even aware that the motion was being considered before its passing was announced, so why aren’t big decisions made in

a similar way? If each student received a voting link via email, the Union would have better insight into what changes students want to see in the Union.

A main argument for the 100 per cent plant-based Student Union is that it is “more inclusive.” However, the Union, as it is caters to all – offering Halal meats for those who can only eat halal, various vegan/ veggie/plant-based options, gluten free options and more.

With this in mind, students were asked if they felt 100 per cent plantbased products is more inclusive. 69.2 per cent voted no.

Students were also asked if they had any alternative suggestions.

One said, “Choice is key. You can’t restrict the options people have to the point of forcing them into adhering with a certain agenda.

Increasing variety is important but the answer is not to remove meat entirely. A 100% plant-based menu does not represent the majority of students. I think a 50% plant-based [Union] would be a suitable option.”

Another, “Expand the number of food options, let people make informed decisions by educating them, don’t just dictate what people can and can’t eat. Make an effort to source locally and from ethical,

sustainable farmers. Provide more fish options as they’re far better for the environment than red meats.

HOLD A SECOND VOTE THAT EVERYONE IS AWARE OF. Burying the notice in the deluge of emails that we receive every week isn’t democracy, and make sure there is a significant enough difference between the votes that the changes will be an inclusive decision, not a divisive one, implementing such a huge change shouldn’t be another Brexit. Present us with what a plant-based Student Union would look like instead of asking us to vote on a mystery outcome. Create options to have a 50% plant-based [Union], so that there are degrees that people can choose so that it isn’t an absolute, all or nothing vote.”

Some respondents that were in favour of the motion had a poor attitude, leaving suggestions like “Go vote next time if you don’t like the outcome of an election,” and “I don’t see any reason for questioning this decision. Anyone who is not happy with eating at these 3 plantbased outlets is free to eat at one of the other 10 outlets that offer predominantly meat-based foods, often with very few vegan options “ In this day and age where the masses campaign for inclusivity and equality, the attitude of “if you don’t like it go somewhere else” from people when you don’t agree with them is a disgrace. If it was the other way around and we told those in favour to “go somewhere else,” there would most definitely be an outcry of how unfair it is.

If we truly want a fair outcome for all students, the only way to achieve this in my opinion is a 50% plant-based Union is the only way to go. This means that there will be more vegan/plant-based options on the menu so those in favour of the motion will be happy, while still keeping ‘regular’ options on the menu and therefore not excluding those who can’t or don’t want to eat a plant-based diet. The Union is for all students and should continue to cater for the interests of all students.

Image Credit: Wikimedia Commons

Image Credit: Stirling’s Vegan and Rights for Animals Society (@stir.vera on Instagram)

Current Union President, Tash Miller. Image Credit: Students' Union.

FRIENDS DON’T LET FRIENDS BECOME MISOGYNISTS

By Ali Rees

IT has never been more important to look out for your guy friends. Millions of young men are at risk of getting swept up in dangerous rhetoric that feeds on their deepest fears and stokes their insecurities while doing little to help them adjust to life in an equal and just society.

Even though the misogynist-in-chief, Andrew Tate, seems to be having his comeuppance, it doesn’t mean the ideas he promoted and the ‘manosphere’ as a whole is going anywhere. So, what can be done to counteract and reverse the damage being done to the young men in our society?

Because most people are sucked into this toxic environment because they are seeking a community, a community of peers is one of the best countermeasures. This means it’s up to us as students and young people to do what we can to help those who are vulnerable to these messages. Men in particular need to be on the lookout for other men in their lives who start down this dangerous path.

It can be really difficult because, to some extent, a lot of what Tate and his ilk are saying looks pretty reasonable. The socially acceptable side of their coin is all about graft, hard work, and intentionality. Nothing immediately damaging on the surface.

However, if left unexamined, the door is open for escalation.

It doesn’t take long to get from “you have to work hard to succeed” to “men have to work harder now than they used to” to “because women are demanding jobs and equality” to “they want what is rightfully and historically ours” to “women need to be put in their place.”

It’s a slippery and terrifying slope into the dark.

The way you approach these conversations needs thought and nuance. You can’t go in all guns blazing with anger and accusation. Chances are they already know that Tate is a misogynist and telling them that won’t change their trajectory.

Instead, it’s a matter of gentle probing and questioning. If you see a friend’s attitude change, ask why. Ask them where they heard

Opinion: I’m glad I have an air fryer – here’s why

By Ross Collie

THE past few years have seen the air fryer become the cool new thing on the kitchen counter. They have been flying off the shelves, as we sought different ways of cooking during lockdowns, and as a way to reduce energy costs this winter. But that’s not the only reason for why I love it.

Whilst the air fryer isn’t really that different from a fan oven, it has opened a world of possibilities. I’m not a fussy eater and I enjoy regular cooking, but I sometimes struggle when deciding what new thing to have for lunch, dinner, or even an afternoon snack.

It is as if Instagram knew my toil – not long after my first experiments with the new kitchen gadget, I was being served plenty of bitesize recipes to try out.

The simplicity of the air fryer al lows people to show off their creations in a 10-second for mat and keep it easy to follow. I’ve discovered delights

such as peri-peri bagel bites, sticky chicken, and courgette fries, but there’s something for everyone.

Feel like having a lazy Sunday morning? Don’t worry, you can still treat yourself. The air fryer can do much of the work for cooking a full breakfast, all without using much oil.

It is proving a great gateway to trying new flavour combinations without spending too much effort or time if they fail, which it rarely ever does. It also helps eliminate the guilt of running the bigger oven, for what is usually a smaller portion.

Whilst the air fryer does have some cooking limitations, it is definitely worth taking notice of. I’ve found it to be a wonderful tool for small, quick but still tasty meals – perfect for a student.

The extra benefits of energy efficiency make the air fryer look like a trend with staying power, influencing cooking habits and food culture for years to come.

something and ask them to think critically about their sources. Keep inviting them out, keep them in the groups, and don’t shut them out at the first mention of something concerning, because you’ll simply be proving their deepest fears true.

It’s not easy to turn someone around when they have started this journey, but it’s better to try than to wait and watch them treat the women in their lives like a used car. Don’t let it get to the point where your sister is being denied the right to go out with her friends, or your childhood best mate is getting cheated on by someone who thinks it’s his right.

Talk to your friends about misogyny, before it’s too late.

In defence of Harry and Meghan

By Dec Magee

HARRY and Meghan are at it again – and this time, we have a round of interviews, a Netflix series, and a book (which contains some truly frosty revelations). As you would probably have guessed, people are going absolutely wild. The Netflix series came first – and no sooner had it hit our

painted as villains. And, by the way, they did a pretty good job. They both came across as very eloquent and what they have to say seems reasonable to me.

It’s important to remember, these are real people with their own perspectives.

For Harry, how hard must it be to watch his family go through something similar to what his mother

forget, his truth seems to be that he has, fairly often, himself been disrespected by other members of the family.

The remainder of the Royal Family are not innocent victims in this. The truth is probably that neither side are – but each is entitled to give its view and version of events.

Silence does not equal innocence – just because the King and Prince of Wales haven’t been quite as publicly vocal about the family's problems doesn’t mean that they haven’t been the cause of some of those issues. And it is that silence itself which has proven problematic.

What about Meghan? The misogyny and racism she has faced in all of this has been shocking. And, frankly, it’s appalling how little the monarchy did to protect her –it seems symptomatic of an apparently uncaring and cold institution.

Maybe the Sussex’s shouldn’t air their dirty laundry so publicly – but, maybe if the institution had been better then they wouldn’t feel the need to do so.

Image Credit: BBC (above)

"The way you approach these conversations needs thought and nuance. You can’t go in all guns blazing with anger and accusation."

Image Credit:Tower House Wares

Scottish Artist Reaps Luck on Friday 13th

By Alex Paterson

SCOTTISH singer Joesef released his long-anticipated debut album Permanent Damage on Friday 13th, but he certainly wasn’t unlucky in listener responses.

The thirteen track album contains soft-pop bangers and ballads, similar in sound to his previous EPs 'Play Me Something Nice', 'Does It Make You Feel Good?', and 'Just Come Home With Me Tonight'.

The album opens with the moody synthetic title track 'Permanent Damage'. The song twists as it goes

on, gradually growing in darkness before it abruptly stops. It’s attention-grabbing, and soulful, and sets the tone for the album perfectly.

The album’s next track is the deceptively upbeat heartbreak anthem 'It’s Been a Little Heavy Lately'. Joesef tells the story of sneaking around at night with someone in a relationship with another. He’s in love and he knows it’s wrong, but he doesn’t want to hide anymore. The lyrics show this pining and desire with beautiful

delicacy, creating a mental image as fully-formed as a film.

The album continues with these themes, bouncing between dance bops like 'Didn’t Know How (to Love You)' and crying-under-the-covers tracks like 'Borderline'.

It’s an incredibly strong album that Joesef has clearly taken his time in developing. He’s poured his heart and soul into this project and it’s resulted in a fantastic official debut.

This album will be followed by a UK and European tour, in which he’ll play two nights at the legendary Glasgow venue Barrowland Ballroom.

Joesef is one to watch out for as he steadily climbs into the Hall of Scottish Fame, so it’s worth catching him at an intimate venue if you get the chance.

Introducing Diana ‘CallMeD’ Raschella

By AJ Whyte

GET ready for D because she is about to break into the industry and hopes to vibe her way into your playlists.

The Stirling student is getting ready to release her debut modern R&B single, ‘London Moon’ this month.

Diana ‘CallMeD’ Raschella is an Italian music artist who studies Human Resources Management.

She describes her single as "a mystical story of these two ‘known strangers’ meeting up in a pub."

"They know each other already without actually knowing. You’ll just have to listen to find out the rest.”

CallMeD wrote her first song in 2018 but didn’t feel ready to keep writing until the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020. Since then, she’s constantly written down all sorts of different songs and melodies and let her musical brain be creative and thrive.

Amy Winehouse and SZA play a massive influence on her style, but

various genres also have their say.

CallMeD said: “I have crazy influences from rap, old hip-hop, to Sade, to Afro Beats. I’m open to anything.

“I don’t want to fit into a box. I want to be versatile as an artist and expand myself.

"This is such a big moment for me and I truly hope you can vibe to it."

D has had a passion for music since she was a child. Her parents played a massive part in her musical education and introduced to her all sorts of genres before giving her the push into singing lessons.

‘London Moon’, will hit all platforms under the artist name CallMeD at midnight on January 27th 2023.

Did you know Brig has its own Spotify account?

Filled with playlists for every occasion.

From study playlists to our writers favourite tunes.

Scan the QR code below to see for yourself!

By Ben Macswan

WICKED, the Broadway musical that reveals the ‘untold story of the witches of OZ’ is turning 20 this year. Despite that, it still plays to packed audiences, both on Broadway where it has run since 2003 at the Gershwin Theatre and in London at the Apollo Victoria Theatre since 2006. An undebatable part of its appeal has to be the iconic music. After all, you can’t have a MUSICal without the music. The music spans a wide variety of inspirations and genres from the traditional musical style (“No One Mourns the Wicked”, “Wonderful”),

love ballads (“As Long As Your Mine”) and bubble-gum pop (“Popular”), in which Glinda testifies the importance of being popular to Elphaba.

The music and themes put forward play an important role in developing Wicked's many character arcs. For now, we’ll focus on Glinda. "Popular" develops into Act 2 opener “Thank Goodness”, where her popularity has grown. She is now a prominent figure in Oz, but this hasn’t made her as happy as she thought it would. “There’s a kind of a sort of cost, there’s a couple of

things get lost,” she confesses to herself before the slower melody of the song grows to a crescendo and she puts forward this false image of happiness to keep the spirits of Oz high.

This all culminates in the bittersweet ‘For Good’. Glinda and Elphaba both reflect on the impact they have had on each other and one another’s lives. The significant musical focus here is the vocal swap of Elphaba and Glinda. The latter sings the lower part and Elphie the higher, contrasting the other pieces where Glinda often sings operatically high. The choice truly reflects how they have changed each other ‘For Good’.

Image Credit: peeohvee on instagram

Image Credit: Sveva Raschella

Image Credit: Universal Stage

GLITTER AND GUITARS:

GLAM rock is defined as a music style and movement that celebrates the spectacle of the rock star. When thinking of glam rock, one might conjure an image of Marc Bolan, Glam Rocks first real star, or perhaps David Bowie and his alter ego Ziggy Stardust. Maybe you would think of Sweet, who made men wearing makeup the norm or Slade who made long hair cool again.

In recent years there have been signs of a glam rock revival, with bands such as Greta Van Fleet and The Struts quickly rising to extreme popularity and gaining a loyal fanbase.

Born in the early 70s, a time of economic and political crisis, glam rock provided a type of rebellion for young people against conservative thought. It created a space where the fluidity of gender and sexuality could flow freely with acceptance. Seeing

WILL 2023 SEE THE RETURN OF GLAM ROCK?

By Jodie Marshall

rock stars performing in androgynous clothing, makeup, platform boots and glitter, of course, allowed young people to feel comfortable expressing themselves without judgement. The music of glam rock could be described as the fun and audacious love child of psychedelic rock and art rock.

Glam rock has been making a comeback with some notable bands emerging as front runners of this new resurgence. This includes Stracrawler, known for their theatrical live shows which mirror that of Alice Cooper; Palaye Royale, who will be embarking on an extensive UK and European

tour this year after an extremely successful album release last year; The Struts; and of course, the popular Maneskin.

However, the main influence of the new glam rock movement is Greta Van Fleet. The band sprung to popularity in recent years, having had multiple sold-out tours across America. The band embodies everything that Glam rock is, with androgynous clothing, unique vocals and guitar-heavy songs.

Glam Rock was and is so much more than just a type of music. It is a whole movement, in which the fluidity of gender and sexuality is celebrated, all while listening to some great music.

New music releases of 2023

By Georgia Dalgarno

January February March April

January 20

Måneskin - Rush!

The Eurovision winners are releasing their second studio album this year. Their debut TEATRO D'IRA - VOL I got to number 49 in the UK charts in 2021. We will see how well they do this time around

Mac Demarco - Five Easy Hot Dogs

Canadian singer-songwriter Mac Demarco realses his first album in 3 years. An fun fact about the album, each track is named after the city it was recorded in.

February 10

Paramore - This Is Why

This is the band's first album since their five year hiatus and have already teased their a single on YouTube.

February 14

Caroline Polachek - Desire, I Want To Turn Into You

February 17

Inhaler – Cuts & Bruises

The four-piece indie rock band hailing from Dublin are set to release their sophomore album Cuts & Bruises on February 17.

Tracks on the album include ‘Dublin in Ecstasy’, ‘When I Have Her On My Mind’, ‘Valentine’ and ‘Perfect Storm’.

February 24

Gorillaz - Cracker Island

This album is rumored to have all feature collaborations with Stevie Nicks, Adeleye Omotayo, Thundercat, Tame Impala, Bad Bunny, Bootie Brown, and Beck.

March 10

Miley Cyrus - Endless Summer Vacation

This is the 8th studio album from the American singer. She has already grabbed our attention by releasing her new single about her ex-husband on his birthday!

March 24

Lana Del Rey - Did You Know That There’s a Tunnel Under Ocean Blvd

Album number nine from Lana is one of the most anticipated albums of the year. She has released the names of all 16 tracks and what the artwork of the album will look like.

April 14

April 21

The Smashing Pumpkins - Atum: Act Three

Although nothing has been confirmed, the indie rock supergroup boygenius, comprised of Phoebe Bridgers, Julien Baker and Lucy Dacus, are rumoured to be reuniting and releasing new music after it was confirmed they will be returning to play Coachella in April.

Also rumoured to be releasing new music is Taylor Swift, who has been re-releasing her first six albums after they were sold off against her will.

Having re-released Fearless and Red so far, many fans have speculated that Speak Now or 1989 will be next.

Måneskin during Rock am Ring at Nürburgring, Germany. Image credit: Sven Mandel

Image Credit: Deezer Image

SEAN LIONADH INTERVIEW: DIRECTOR OF BAFTA-WINNING SHORT FILM 'TOO ROUGH'

By Rebecca Crockett FILM & TV EDITOR

TOO Rough begins when the previous night’s hazy bravado is destroyed in the cold light of reality as Nick (Ruaridh Mollica) must sneak his boyfriend Charlie (Joshua Griffin) out of his abusive household. Based on experiences from writer/director Sean Lionadh, the short film has earned him a Scottish Bafta as well as a BIFA award for Best British Short Film. Lionadh spoke to Brig about his creative process, connecting with audiences and how he deals with praise.

What was the writing process like?

Writing was very exciting, because in my head a lot of my friends didn't really know the kind of situation I grew up in. It was exciting because it can be exhausting when you feel like people don't really understand where you come from.

Why was it important for you to have a Scottish cast and crew for Too Rough?

I just think if you're going to film a project in Scotland, the idea of bringing in anyone else is absurd. I really wanted to stay Scottish for the cast because I fundamentally distrusted anyone's ability to do a Scottish accent that was from London. But actually, the best person for the job was Joshua Griffin,

who is [English], so I was proven wrong. Also, I just wanted people to understand what kind of story it was, and it wasn't just about them being Scottish.

How do you know when to listen to advice on your work?

It's hard, because my first instinct is “you don't get it”. But the more interrogation you have with your ideas, the more that the strongest ideas will stand out. You should second guess yourself, but in other instances, there's decisions I made that I wish I hadn't, because I trusted that someone else was right. With writing… you do have to recognise that there are narrative laws that if you respect, will make your story better and allow people to see your soul more clearly.

What has been the most memorable reaction to the film?

There's a scene in the film when Nick covers his little brother’s ears and Charlie covers Nick’s ears. This woman came up two me [after a screening] and she said, "I wish I'd had someone to cover my ears when I was at home." And in the middle of the sentence, she exploded [in tears] because this is what so many people from those backgrounds have. They have a reservoir of grief, and it needs to come out in a safe way. It’s the worst feeling in the world to feel like you're different to everyone else and your pains are uniquely insufferable. When you connect with someone

like I did with that woman, it's like we were part of the same army.

What goes through your head when you win a BAFTA?

It's quite sad what went through my head; I just thought maybe I'm good enough now. Maybe I'm finally worth something. But that's not the right way to think. In fact, it's a terrible way to think, because if you try and become worthwhile from things like that, it never ends. I've been speaking to my therapist a lot about preparing for award ceremonies because whenever I'm in a position of praise, I get very nervous, so I'm trying to stay grounded.

Should - The Banshees of Inisherin

Having swept nominations so far, it would be a crime for TBOI not to be nominated for Best Picture. The reunion of Colin Farrell, Brendan Gleeson and Martin McDonagh made for one of the most beautiful films of 2022. Each scene and performance could be shown and analysed separately, as it showcases the best of Irish scenery and human relationships with a brilliant score to match. It is definitely a contender for the top prize.

Could - Black Panther: Wakanda Forever

Despite the first film being the only Marvel film to make the prestigious list previously, the sequel was met with mixed reviews. Nonetheless, it is an emotional and beautiful tribute to the late Chadwick Boseman and with Angela Bassett now being the first Marvel actor to win a Golden Globe for her role, there is enough momentum to squeeze on the list.

Would (if the Academy wasn’t stuffy) - The Woman King

The film follows the true story of Nanisca, Viola Davis, leader of the all-female warriors who protected the African kingdom of Dahomey in the 1800s whilst dealing with the complicated relationship the kingdom had with slavery. Bit out there for the Academy, isn’t it.

Poster for 'Too Rough'. Image credit: Peccadillo Pictures

Director of 'Too Rough' Sean Lionadh. Image credit: Sean Lionadh

Panther: Wakanda Forever'. Image credit: Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures

Poster for 'The Woman King'. Image credit: Entertainment

Read the full interview at Brignews.com

By Charlotte Sutcliffe

Del Toro's Pinocchio is Proof that Animation is not just for kids

By Alex Paterson

WHEN many think of animation they imagine a piece of juvenile media, some colourful adventure with an animal protagonist and a thinly veiled moral lesson.

Yet, this couldn’t be further from the truth. Animation is a playground for creativity, allowing whatever story that comes to mind to be told. It allows the creators to break the boundaries of human capability on screen, manipulating anything into doing the impossible.

Guillermo Del Toro’s Pinocchio is a stop motion animation film that utilises this playground to the max. The film may be precon -

ceived as childish due to its connections with the classic children’s fable. The wooden boy come to life, his mentor cricket, and comically large nose all sound like the perfect concoction for a children’s movie.

Yet, in the plot, Del Toro explores grief, war, and religion with frankness and an aesthetic maturity that would appeal to any age group. The use of colour, texture and cinematography around the stop motion figures contributes to the dark and spiritual ambience throughout the film.

The stop motion animation medium requires such intricacy and is extraordinarily labour intensive that deserves immense producorial credit; it’s a skill to be revelled by any viewer who recognises it.

Despite this, the animated tag and the link to classic Disney will have potential audiences cast it aside for fears of it being ‘too childish.’

Even then, animation can be childish and still be enjoyable for older audiences. Shows like South

Park and Rick and Morty are created for the goofy ‘over-grown child’ adult. Then we have BoJack Horseman and Big Mouth that are also comedies but have a darkness and realism in them, allowing them to have some emotional substance amongst the comedy the viewers look for.

Films such as Shrek and Finding Nemo are genuinely made for children but have sly, crude jokes designed to fly over the heads of younger viewers whilst bemusing their parents- and they do have moral lessons that anyone could do with learning.

The gist here is to not limit your options- just because you enjoy swimming, doesn’t mean you can’t like tennis, and the same goes for movies. Yes, the emotion and talent shown by on-screen actors can be beautifully intense and sophisticated, but animated films can have that complexity too. Do not write them off, or risk losing an entire field of beautiful movie craftmanship.

Most Anticipated TV shows of 2023

By Rebecca Crockett

WITH a different series coming out every week, you could quickly become overwhelmed with choice. But Brig is here to give you a quick round-up of this year’s top picks.

Nolly (ITV) - February 2

Russell T. Davis’ miniseries starring Helena Bonham Carter as Crossroads actress, Noele Gordon, when she is sacked from the beloved soap.

You: Season 4 (Netflix)February 9

Old habits die hard, especially when you kill your wife. This time Joe takes on London, but the hunter has become the hunted.

Empire of Light Review: A Cautionary Tale

‘NEGLECTED and slightly frayed at the edges’ is a phrase which could apply to multiple elements of Empire of Light, directed by Sam Mendes.

It’s 1980, turning into 1981 in Margate: the Tories are in power; the welfare state is crumbling; joy is in short supply. A cinema, the ‘Empire’ of the title in which most of the narrative is set, has seen better times.

Donald Ellis (Colin Firth), the cinema’s manager, encapsulates the seediness of the era as he engages in an affair with Olivia Colman’s duty manager Hilary that is as unsatisfying to her as the rest of her life. Never has ‘the glamour of the silver screen’ felt more tawdry, more hollow or more false.

Into this world of broken dreams and lonely lives comes Steven (Michael Ward), a black man living in this racist and dilapidated seaside town, who is shown to be a victim of racist

abuse.

Steven and Hilary encourage each other to broaden their horizons and allow some light into each other’s respective darkness. Slowly, carefully, understatedly, their lives improve as Hilary grows in confidence and Steven grasps the opportunities previously denied to him.

But ‘it’s the hope that will kill you’, and as the story continues the happy ending which would be found in a Hollywood movie fails to materialize, as this cinematic equivalent of literary fiction tries its hardest to manipulate our emotions.

Olivia Colman should receive a slew of acting awards for her work here. If there’s any justice, so should Ward. Empire of Light has been billed as a love-letter to cinema, but it seems to actually be a cautionary tale of what happens when people are repeatedly denied happiness. In that way it may perhaps be a perfect allegory for the straitened times in which we find ourselves.

Daisy Jones and the Six (Prime)March 3

Chronicles of the histrionic rise and fall of a 70s rock group, based on the novel of the same name.

Doctor who (BBC/Disney+)November 2023

This will mark Ncuti Gatwa’s debut appearance as the Doctor, with plenty of old faces returning to welcome him to the blue box and to celebrate the iconic show’s 60th anniversary.

The Idol (Sky) - Coming in 2023 Following Lily-Rose Depp as a pop star trying to get back on top while falling for a cult leader. Created by Euphoria’s Sam Levinson.

Guillermo del Toro's Pinocchio took 2 and a half years to complete. Image credit: Jason Schimdt via Netflix

Starring Riley Keough, Sam Claflin and Suki Waterhouse.

Olivia Colman as Hilary Small in Empire of Light. Image credit: Searchlight Pictures

By Anne-Louise Fortune

Ncuti Gatwa as The Doctor. Image credit: James Pardon/BBC/Badwolf

Pinocchio voiced by Gregory Mann. Image credit: Netflix

Michael Ward as Stephen in 'Empire of Light'. Image credit: Searchlight Pictures

BRIG 2022/23 EDITORIAL TEAM

WORD

Samantha McBride HEAD OF ADVERTISING

Simi Borovska POLITICS EDITOR

Lara Cortis ARTS EDITOR

Carlin Braun HEAD OF PHOTOGRAPHY

Isla Glen EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Molly Bishop DEPUTY EDITOR

AJ Whyte SECRETARY

Rebecca Kerr NEWS EDITOR

Andrew Robson NEWS & SPORTS EDITOR

John Turnbull SPORTS EDITOR

Rachel Swan POLITICS EDITOR

Julia Benko COMMENT EDITOR

Carly McKim MUSIC EDITOR

Rebecca Crockett FILM & TV EDITOR

Lucie Smith BRAW MAGAZINE EDITOR

Rio Kerr LIFESTYLE EDITOR

Charlotte Sutcliffe FEATURES EDITOR

Freya Deyell FOOD EDITOR

Emma Halliday HEAD OF DESIGN

Ross Collie CHIEF SUB-EDITOR

Robyn Duffy HEAD OF SOCIAL MEDIA

HOW TO BEAT THE JANUARY BLUES

By Samantha McBride

THE most important thing you can do for yourself this January is supplementing your body and mind's processes by staying in tune with your body and what it is abundant in and lacking. This could be from hormones to environmental factors.

So here is your handy guide to discover your biology and psychology and how you can combat the dreaded January blues.

Why do we get the January blues?

First, there is a great contrast between the celebrations and happiness during the festive period compared to the duller days and serious back-to-work vibes. This really makes the start of the new year quite a challenge.

The cold weather and longer dark nights will mess up your biological clock, disturb your sleep, and affect your hormones and mood.

The excessive spending of money during the holidays may have left you feeling financially fragile. Without the festivities and great times with family and friends, you may feel isolated and burnt out. The 'new year, new you' trend comes around every year and places a great importance on January as the 'start as you mean to go on' month which sets the tone for the year. The guilt and shame trap of 'bettering yourself' many fall into can make it difficult to feel happy.

Many physical symptoms can arise from the January blues. Action is essential to prevent the snowballing of your physical and mental health.

Inadequate sleep can present you with many negative symptoms such as brain fog and low mood. Melatonin (sleep hormone) production is increased as it gets darker which makes us tired for sleep. With it being darker for longer, and with more melatonin produced you’ll find yourself feeling tired and fatigued throughout the day, with difficulty falling and staying asleep. Some of the best ways to optimise sleep are to

-keeping a dark room at night -relaxing in the evening -trying light therapy.

Our mood, controlled by hormones such as dopamine, oxytocin, serotonin, endorphins and cortisol, can also add to the January blues.

SEROTONIN

When released, can affect mood, sleep and appetite. When released at lower levels due to a lack of sunlight, and this can result in symptoms of depression. The best ways to boost our serotonin naturally include taking a cold shower, going outside, and exercising.

OXYTOCIN AND ENDROPHINS

Lacking oxytocin, the love hormone, and endorphins, the pleasure hormone, could leave you feeling isolated and depressed. Physical touch helps to boost these hormones, as well as socialising and listening to music.

DOPAMINE

Lacking oxytocin, the love hormone, and endorphins, the pleasure hormone, could leave you feeling isolated and depressed. Physical touch helps to boost these hormones, as well as socialising and listening to music.

CORTISOL

Overproduction of cortisol, the stress hormone, could leave you feeling low about your situation. Getting enough sleep is key to reducing cortisol, and can be helped by breathing exercises and doing your favourite hobbies.

Diet and Vitamins

Diet and vitamin intake can greatly affect your physical and mental health. The low levels of Vitamin D from the lack of sunlight, and low B vitamin levels in the diet can cause mood issues.

Adding more spinach, kale, red meat, and orange juice to your diet will lift the levels of Vitamin D, whilst broccoli, chickpeas, kidney beans and leafy greens boost Vitamin B. Other foods which can boost your mood include dark chocolate, oats berries, nuts and seeds.Eating consistently and having a balanced diet are equally important in maintaining physical (and mental) health. So too is exercising.

Do not punish yourself for how you are feeling – it is your biology and psychology. Take care of your biological and psychological processes by supplementing your hormones using, food, exercises and activities to beat the January blues.

WHAT IS NEXT FOR TRANS RIGHTS IN SCOTLAND 2023

By Ali Rees

SCOTLAND has become the first part of the UK to make some much-needed reforms to the Gender Recognition Act, making it easier for trans people to obtain a Gender Recognition Certificate (GRC).

Since the Equality Act 2010, trans people have had the legal right to not be discriminated against on the basis of their gender identities. This act also clarified that trans people should be treated as the gender they present as regarding single-sex spaces and services.

The reform of the Gender Recognition Act has not granted any additional rights to trans people. Especially not at the expense of cis people’s rights. What it does do is eliminate the requirement for a medical diagnosis of ‘gender dysphoria’, lowers the age that you can apply for a GRC to 16, and allows people to apply for a GRC after living as their assumed gender for three months, down from two years.

The simplification of the bureaucracy that surrounds obtaining a GRC is much needed and welcome. However, it should be seen as the first step in a process for trans rights in Scotland rather than the culmination.

As a next step, it is vital that the government looks at the rights and needs of non-binary and gender non-conforming people. In the UK, non-binary genders are not legally recognised, and you can only be categorised as a male or female.

The UK government stated in 2021 that there were no plans to legally recognise non-binary identities. The recently released stats from the 2021 census shows that 30,000 people identify as non-binary, and this may be fewer than the total because it does not include anyone under 16, and doesn’t account for anyone who isn’t out, didn’t answer, or didn’t provide details.

"The Gender Recognition Act can, and should go even further,” says Freya Deyell, a non-binary student at the University of Stirling.

For those of us living outside the gender binary, it feels like we're being forgotten once again."

For people who identify beyond male and female, this kind of recognition is vital. The legal recognition would be an aid in pressuring other organisations who do not allow for genders beyond the binary. Though perhaps better still would be the elimination of gender from default data gathering in irrelevant fields. There is really no need for the library to know or care about a person’s gender, after all.

ACTIVIST, icon and mother of punk. There's no doubt that Dame Vivienne Westwood left her mark on our world in more ways than one. From her iconic runway looks to being an environmental activist, she was a woman driven by her political views and hate for corruption.At the end of 2022 she sadly passed away in her home surrounded by family, aged 81. BRAW takes a look at the wild and wonderful things this incredible woman has done in her career.

A HOMAGE TO THE MOTHER OF PUNK

By Carly McKim

In the 1970s, driven by the thought of going against the status quo, Vivienne Westwood and her husband Malcolm McLaren created a fashion movement that changed society. With provocative imagery, traditional textiles and an edgy attitude to pair, punk was born. Leather, spikes and bondage were soon everywhere in the 1970s as the punk movement was in full force. It wasn't long before everyone was begging for a pair of her iconic bondage trousers or a mohair jumper in her first store “SeX”. Only the bravest dared to go inside. The boutique was situated on King’s Road in Chelsea and has had many name changes since its opening in 1971. Going from “sex” to “Too Fast To Live Too Young To Die” and finally settling on the name “World’s End” in 1979 which it still holds to this day.

Her husband John managed iconic punk band the Sex Pistols, which Westwood also dressed further creating the punk look. Westwood created this edgy fashion to go against the norms and have significant change in society. All she wanted was to use fashion to encourage others to fight back. Unfortunately, this didn't catch on to the youth of the 70s and 80s. People were fans of the punk look but the ideologies that followed did not hold up for long. It was something that deeply upset Westwood, as she was an activist to her core. Her whole purpose of designing fashion was to create statements and impact. Although she did not achieve what she wanted during this era, it did not stop from continuing to speak her truth throughout the rest of her career.

In February 2018, Westwood staged an anti-fracking protest in Knightsbridge, London. The eyes of the world were already on London with it being the first week of London Fashion Week. Fracking is a problematic energy extraction method that could seriously harm the environment. The environment meant a great deal to Westwood so it's no surprise she stood up to this issue. She protested against Ineos, a firm which campaigned in favour of fracking projects in the UK. She was pictured holding signage, obviously dressed for the occasion with her outfit reading things like “Fracking Climate Ineos” with the word chaos written over the company's name. Her activism went viral on Twitter and proved that Dame Vivienne Westwood used her voice not only for fashion but for great causes. The fashion designer was also known to donate to the Green Party and was the first fashion designer to ban real fur from her runway looks in 1996.

If we were to talk of all the great things this woman has done with her platform and her voice, we would be here all day. There's no doubt that the legacy of Dame Vivienne Westwood will live on for many years to come.

THE NOSTALGIC FUTURE OF THE FASHION SCENE 2023

By Julie Brinking

WE are heading into the post-pandemic older, wiser and positively ready to forget the years of casual wear. While we look ahead at more colourful, maximalist and independent fashion choices, the Y2K style has been creeping back with more popular enthusiasm than ever.

Gazing at past spectacles of fashion and longing for a new future, Gen-Z have sought out their own nostalgic style where second-hand clothing is becoming the new norm – a perfect way to get your hands on authentic 2000s pieces.

Here are the trends to look out for in 2023; old as well as new:

As always, we are inspired by popular culture. Style-icon Zendaya is praised for her red-carpet looks and her popularity in the HBO series Euphoria served as inspiration to many modern Y2K looks. Predictably, several styles from the show and the early 2000s will be seen in 2023 as well. This means pastels, low-waist jeans, pleated tennis skirts, and butterfly clips. Beware, denim in all its forms and glory will be the centrepiece!

Regencycore was the big obsession of the past year and it is with all predictions going to be seen again come springtime when season 3 of Bridgerton will be released. This means corsets, bustier tops, pearls, tulle, lace, and puffy sleeves. All the drama will also be on the runway with large silhouettes bursting from the hips and ruffles. Lots of ruffles.

The Met Gala hosted the theme “Gilded Glamour” in May 2022, perfectly in alignment with the regency fascination. Perhaps not gilded in gold, but silver will be the luxury-sig nalling colour in 2023. Similarly, metallics and shimmer will follow us from the festive New Year’s celebrations.

It’s time to manifest the meet-cutes! The brand-new core of 2023 will be romcom. In homage to the best romantic comedies slip-dresses, tube tops, miniskirts, and Barbie pink will be all the talk. Think Kate Hudson in How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days and 2003-era Paris Hilton.

Dystopian, futuristic sci-fi and grunge revisited will also dominate, so you can without regret keep your old or invest in new Dr Martens. Mixed fabrics, distressed hems, flannels: it’s a rebellion befitting the current political climate.

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Image Credit: The Coolest Magazine

The Voyage of the Unknown

By Julia Benko

At Bharcasaig Bay, the dusky sky extends into the sea and crashes into the basalt beach only to retreat again, timid at showing their intimacy. My feet, exposed, infiltrate the vulnerable sand and dig up the realm of relics concealed within it.

All buried memories emerge at the pull of the moon.

Deserted whelk homes quiver at the biting touch of the water, the sea glass glimmers in the misty sun. A chalky splinter of the past untangles itself from the mass of sand – nearly breathless.

Its balmy edges recount a rough perpetuity at sea.

Like an adrift sailor restored to land, it is changed and broken, an amnesiac to its roots. Without any alluring clues, it remains a blank canvas – an enigma – with no code to decrypt it.

Aura fairy

By Demilee Shandy

Once upon a time in another dimension, similar to ours, the sad of the day sprinkles into the dawn of the night. A little fairy sits crying so much there becomes a puddle around her. The sounds of wallowing sadness echos around her. There she is, once again, isolated and alone on an island of her insecurity. Eventually, she looks down into the reflection of her puddle of tears, as clear as glass, she puts her hand through. Then she falls deep into this other world that beams full of colour and light. As she dances in this majestic world of hope and wonders, a presence twirls her and says “The past is nothing, but a figment of your imagination. The now is what you make of it and your future hasn’t even begun.” The fairy starts to glitter and her pain floats away as quickly as a breath. The presence disappears, taking all of the fairy's pain with it. This rare night was one to remember. After she has wandered through this mystical land, she is scooped through time. As she floats back through the reflections of time her being flies through many kaleidoscopic pieces of glass. She opens her eyes and gasps. This time no tears are surrounding her, but instead, a beautiful aura with a mixture of colours from ruby red to burnt orange. What can only be described as peace encapsulates her like gorgeous petals. She blooms in her celestial body and now even if the sadness sprinkles on her once more, she is safe. This helps her bloom until the last drip drops. Now all she yearns for is to be this presence of others and go around extracting the pain of others to help all fairies blossom.

Each aura, no matter how sad, can be turned into something beautiful.

I write here, because I am grateful to be alive, and because I’m not scared of the day it will end.

I write on a bench, looking out at the sky, with leaves hanging over my shoulders and the ground soft under my feet. I write because it’s cold, and I don’t mind. I’m just happy that I get to feel it.

I share with you, now, the only love letter that I have ever written. Maybe that’s the wrong phrase. It has no address, and I haven’t the faintest clue where I’d put the stamp. However, I am absolutely certain that it can be considered romantic. A word defined not only by the feelings and emotions of love but representing an idealised view of the world. That, today and I am certain for a long time afterwards, is where I find myself.

Every day, when I wake up, I choose a life of good books, left-wing politics, walks and learning and cool breezes and remarkable people. A warm sun. I let them give me purpose, because I remember the days when I didn't want them. All I would long for was quiet, an escape from such a loud, loud world. I built peace for myself, and long for a world that has peace for others too.

Being romantic can be to see the world not for what it is, but for what it could be, if only we tried hard enough. Hope keeps me waking up, and going outside, and talking as much as I can. I understand that the world is far from perfect. I'm grateful to be a part of it. Even when the dark creeps back in, moving forward is no longer a trial, but a challenge. Pushing forward to make something better gives me hope too. It's how I know I'm still here. Isn't that wonderful?

By Niamh Brook

From a Hopeless Romantic

So, as I sit on a bench with soft earth and brown leaves and the sun shining on the lake, I reme ber to take some deep breaths. And, for the first time in what feels like centuries, I don't want to leave. I don't need to escape anymore. As long as I have goodness around me, I can fill the dark spaces with light. However, for now, it's quiet, and beautiful, and I don't have anywhere to be. I couldn't love it more.

Image Credit: Julia Benko

SCOTTISH AUTHORS YOU SHOULD READ IN 2023

By Kat McGuigan

GETTING cosy with a good book is the best way to avoid the January blues. Whether you’re an avid reader already or have made a new year’s resolution to read more, Scotland has a breadth of literary talent for you to discover. Brig has rounded up the most iconic Scottish writers to kickstart your reading list.

ALASDAIR GRAY

Hailing from Glasgow, Alasdair Gray was a landmark figure in Scottish art and literature. He began writing Lanark as a student, and it took him almost thirty years to finish. Upon release, it was met with critical admiration

and remains a must-read book.

Lanark is a masterpiece that combines a coming-of-age story with elements of social commentary and science fiction. Set in a fictionalised version of Glasgow, it is equally fantastical and

familiar.

Lanark makes an impression on those lucky enough to read it through a combination of Gray’s unique prose and his distinctive illustrations.

The Predator

By Nikita Vance

Shuffling comes from the tall grass, As a creature creeps within. Eyes black and bulging, Claws sharp like razors A predator.

It hunts through the night, Hungry for a morsel of flesh. Its nose acting as a tracker, Rapidly snuffling to pick up the scent.

Suddenly, it stops. Its prey has been located. Up ahead, curled in a greener patch

A long, slick skinned creature lies.

Thick, juicy And blissfully unaware. The monster lurches forward, Licking its lips in anticipation.

Jaws unhinge, flashing sharp fangs

And in an instant, Clamp around the unsuspecting victim.

Known for her award-winning poetry and novels, Jackie Kay has made an impressive contribution to Scottish literature. Kay is an alum of the University of Stirling and served as the Makar from 2016 to 2021.

JACKIE KAY JAMES KELMAN

As a child, Kay was adopted into a white family and was subjected to racial abuse at school. Her life experience influences her work, notably her first poetry collection titled The Adoption Papers . Told from 3 different perspectives,

the poems tackle many topics including race, adoption, and class divide.

The entire collection is incredibly candid and makes for an emotionally charged read.

James Kelman has attracted more than his fair share of controversy throughout his impressive literary career. Kelman won the Booker Prize for his 1994 novel How Late It Was, How Late , which was met with uproar due to his liberal use of bad language

and a distinctively Glaswegian dialect.

How Late it was, How Late is a raw account of working-class life in Scotland. It is subversive in its stream of consciousness style and immediately immerses the reader into the world of the

MURIEL SPARK

No list of Scottish authors would be complete without the inimitable Dame Muriel Spark. Spark is known for her signature witty prose style, and her books are both incisive and full of heart. She is best known for The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie

This novel follows Miss Brodie, a teacher at an all-girls school in Edinburgh. She ignores the curriculum in favour of teaching her girls about art history, classics, and romance. This book is emotional, funny, and remains well-loved internationally. Dame

blinded protagonist, Sammy Samuels. Kelman has forged a spot for himself as a voice for the Scottish working class and has inspired many writers such as Irvine Welsh to use their authentic dialect in their writing.

Blood leaks from the pierced skin, As the poor target squirms, Twitch, twitch, twitchingThen it falls still Dead

I find when you walk at night, You witness nature in its rawest form. The wild sounds are soothing, And the moonlight shines low It is almost a fairy-tale setting.

Then I hear the shuffling in the tall grass.

Fear strikes me cold and numb, And I begin to shake most violently. Thoughts race through my mind,

Of a foul beast emerging Gashing and goring my weak body, And wolfing down what remains.

I stand still and silent, In anticipation and acceptance of my fate.

Then it emerges from the darkness.

A hedgehog, and in its mouth A worm.

Maggie Smith won an Academy Award for her portrayal of the titular character, immortalising the iconic character of Miss Jean Brodie on screen.

Jackie Kay. Image credit: University of Salford

Alasdair Gray. Image credit: Alan Dimmick

James Kelman. Image credit: Librairie mollat

Muriel Spark. Image credit: Jane McChrystal

FIVE EXCITING GAMES COMING IN THE FIRST HALF OF 2023

By Ali Rees

HOLLOW KNIGHT: SILKSONG

Platforms: Switch, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, PC

Release Date: Before June , exact date TBA

Studio: Team Cherry

Publisher: Team Cherry

Platforms: PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, PC

Release Date: June 6

Studio: Activision Blizzard

Publisher: Activision Blizzard

STAR WARS JEDI: SURVIVOR

Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PC

Release Date: March 17

Studio: Respawn

Entertainment Publisher: Electronic Arts

OCTOPATH TRAVELER 2

DEAD SPACE

Platforms: PS5, PS4, Switch, PC

Release Date: February 24 Studio: Square Enix/ Acquire Publisher: Square Enix

Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PC Release Date: January 27 Studio: EA Motive Publisher: Electronic Arts

Silksong is the long, long awaited sequel to one of the most successful indie games of all time, Hollow Knight.

It has extremely large shoes to fill, and the gameplay and teaser trailers all paint a vivid picture of lush, well realised environments, fast paced and challenging combat, and enemies and NPCs with unique, quirky designs.

Hollow Knight won huge acclaim for its precise combination of platforming, combat, and Metroidvania exploration, and the tiny studio of three, Team Cherry, show every sign of taking care to ensure Silksong does not let fans down.

The Diablo Series has been a staple of Blizzard (now part of Activision Blizzard) since its first iteration back in 1996 and it has now been over ten years since the last game in the series was released.

Diablo 4 promises their classic action-RPG characters, hackand-slash combat, set in an open world with a bleak and gothic atmosphere.

The developers have said that they will continue to add content and support the game “for years to come”, and given their track record it’s safe to believe that they will follow through on that.

The highly anticipated sequel to Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order, Survivor continues the story of Cal Kestis five years after the end of Fallen Order.

Time and circumstance have been hard on Cal and we find him more rugged and mature than we left him.

Fallen Order was perhaps the first really good sci-fi action adventure game to make waves in the “souls-like” subgenre with its quick paced parry-based combat, and fans of difficult but rewarding combat are polishing their lightsabers in anticipation.

A follow up to the critically acclaimed HD-2D RPG, Octopath Traveler 2 will also follow 8 seemingly separate but interwoven stories of 8 protagonists.

The distinct art style, combining 2D character sprites with a rich 3D world, captured hearts and the sequel looks to continue to capitalise on it. This is a smart plan because the style supports the world and story in a way that is hard to pinpoint.

Octopath Traveler boasted an exciting twist to its turn-based combat that made it feel fresh and engaging, and spirits are high around the sequel, especially as it is releasing across platforms simultaneously.

This might seem like a cheat entry because this is a remake of the sci-fi survival horror classic from 2008. However, Motive have completely rebuilt the game from the ground up and added a new mechanic to combat, allowing for even more gory spectacle. Dead Space is an intense game set on a claustrophobic space station which manages to balance terror and atmosphere with the giddy glee of using a plasma cutter to slice off enemies’ legs. With the exceptional quality of recent remakes like Demon’s Souls and Final Fantasy 7 really showing off what the current gen of gaming tech can achieve, this is sure to be a treat for horror and action fans alike.

By Ali Rees

SONY'S Project Leonardo is a great step forward for gaming accessibility.

But for true accessibility, they must keep the price as low as possible.

Sony announced that they will be releasing a new accessible controller for the PS5, designed in consultation with gaming accessibility charities such as Special Effect and Able Gamers.

Writing on Sony’s Playstation blog, Sony Interactive Entertainment Senior Vice President Hideaki Nishino said that the controller has been designed “to address common challenges faced by many players with limited motor control, including difficulty holding a controller for long periods, accurately pressing small clusters of buttons or triggers, or positioning thumbs and fingers optimally on a standard controller.”

The round device sits flat on a surface and does not need to be held by the user. Many of the components are designed to be swappable and easy to adjust for individual need, including an analogue stick which can sit at any angle around the controller, with an adjustable distance.

It is also designed to have a high level of compatibility with third party accessories, which means users will be able to customise their device to their needs.

Sony’s announcement of this product has been long awaited by some fans of the platform.

Microsoft released the Adaptive Controller for Xbox and PC in 2018 and Sony have been slow to catch up.

Sony have not announced a release window for Project Leonardo, nor have they given any indication as to the price.

Microsoft’s Adaptive Controller is $99.99, which gives some indication as to the ballpark they will be aiming for. However this is without a number of important peripherals which are vital to add full functionality to the controller. A full set up which mimics the functionality of a standard Xbox controller can cost upwards of $400, if you can find anywhere with parts in stock.

There is no way to call this truly accessible and the same will be true if Sony prices the Project Leonardo device to compete.

Disabled people are far more likely to be under economic pressure than able-bodied people and their income for luxury items like video game controllers is restricted. This is a greater concern as the cost of living crisis rages.

Although there are charities such as Special Effect and Able Gamers which offer grants and funding, not everyone will be able to access this aid.

To make the PlayStation a truly accessible console, Sony will have to ensure that the price is within reach of the target audience.

ARE VIDEO GAMES FOCUSING ON THE WRONG THING?

By Joe Cromarty

AN obsession with scope needs to be left behind if video games are to keep creating stories that captivate existing players and reach new audiences.

The release of HBO’s The Last of Us, the highly anticipated TV adaptation of Naughty Dog’s 2013 classic, is a reminder that video games can tell powerful narratives with the potential to engage players, new and old.

The reach of these stories is being limited, however, by how single-player games are marketed and sold.

The industry’s biggest press conferences, award shows, and marketing campaigns have become a contest of size. Developers boast about having the biggest worlds, the largest solar systems, the most colossal universes to explore.

The two biggest single-player releases of the last year, Elden Ring, and God of War Ragnarök take upwards of 50 and 30 hours to beat respectively.

This kind of marketing is not exclusive to the medium. In cinemas, Avatar 2, has been notable for its lengthy run-time and for pushing the limits of what can be done on screen.

But there’s a reason every

blockbuster isn’t Avatar, and every film director isn’t James Cameron. Media at the cutting edge of technology takes a stupidly long time to make.

Earlier this month, prominent games journalist, Jason Schreier, Tweeted: “Fun fact: Video game production cycles have gotten so long that if a big-budget game studio started working on a brandnew project today, it would likely be for the PlayStation 6”.

With the PS5 being just over two years old, it's obvious how such a statistic would affect the depth and quality of its games library.

Moreover, the level of investment now needed for games development means publishers are much more likely to commission multiplayer games, or games as an ongoing service, than self-contained stories.

Character-driven experiences are becoming less and less likely to be commissioned, and even when they are, their sheer size often gets in the way. Games development has always been intense, with “crunch”, an extensive period of unpaid overtime, being the default way of managing deadlines. As games continue to grow in scope, however, the effects of this have become more apparent. Several major releases have been refunded on mass due to poor quality. Famously, CD Projekt

Red’s, Cyberpunk 2077 was removed from the PlayStation 4 store completely.

We’re seeing a decrease in quantity and quality. The worst of both worlds.

Despite the decline over the past decade, there is still hope for tighter focused single-player campaigns. This is most obvious within the indie scene, where shorter experiences are bread and butter.

At the peak of the industry, however, Insomniac Games are leading the way. First, releasing Spiderman Miles-Morales in 2020, a shorter, 15-hour sequel to their original Spiderman game that only took two years from development to release. Then, Ratchet and Clank, a Rift apart, which stands at around 11 hours.

Both titles sold in the millions, scored highly with critics, and developers on Ratchet and Clank praised the lack of crunch-time and sustainable working conditions.

Here, we see potential for the future. For fantastic stories told in more widely accessible, and sustainable ways. To make sure that the next Last of Us is seen by as many as possible. There is certainly still a place for huge sprawling epics like Elden Ring, Breath of the Wild, or The Witcher. But these games should be the exception and not the rule.

Sony's Project Leonardo Accessible Controller. Image credit: Sony Interactive Entertainment

Joel and Ellie in The Last of Us. Image credit: Naughty Dog

TOP TIPS FOR HEADING BACK TO THE GYM THIS JANUARY

By Rio Kerr LIFESTYLE EDITOR

THE new year means many people will be starting or heading back to the gym. It can be overwhelming for many due to different factors, including not knowing where to start.

Whether you are a newbie or a long-time gym goer, there are some important things to remember when you are starting off or starting back the gym.

MONTHLY

THEME:

Refresh Refresh

NEW YEAR SAME YOU BUT WITH BETTER

HABITS

Start off light

Whether you are a beginner or have been off for a few weeks, a few months or even a few years always start off light.

The last thing you want to do when starting is to push yourself too far and leave sore and unable to attend the gym for the rest of the week.

Work yourself gently back in and start off with lighter weights and lower intensity workouts.

Get yourself a good playlist

A good playlist is essential to a good workout. Music is the fuel to your workout and is what will push you through it.

People listen to all types of music in the gym from rap to heavy metal to pop and much more. Listening to music, especially music you like, is a great workout motivation.

If your music isn’t quite doing it for your workout session you can find loads of premade gym playlists online.

THIS time every year, we set our New Year’s resolutions. Often, they are unrealistic or vague and undefined such as ‘lose weight’ or ‘save money’ and ultimately, they fail. Do you want to make lasting changes in your life that align with your goals? Do not rely on motivation. Break your goal into small behaviour changes and make them a habit.

Rid yourself of bad habits

Your behaviours mirror the type of person you believe you are (consciously or subconsciously). Reflect on who you want to be and dismantle your limiting beliefs. You can do this by doing self-directed neuroplasticity (rewiring the brain) through active reflection.

Habits are an effort-saving instinct and emerge automatically. Work your new goal habits into your routine. You can literally fake it until you make it.

By Samantha McBride

Small changes, big results

First, make your habit so easy you cannot say no. Your motivation may be inconsistent, so you must make your first behaviour very easy to accomplish consistently.

As you find yourself doing it easily, slowly increase the habit. But keep it easy enough to complete with little motivation.

Never allow yourself to consecutively fail to complete your habit. Slipping up is okay – but do not let slipping be the habit!

Have a workout plan

Having a plan is a good place to start when going back to the gym.

A plan will let you make the most of your time in the gym and you will be going in knowing exactly what you are going to do.

Plans also help you balance your workouts out and not continuously just hitting for example your lower body. You can find plans and inspiration online or you can consult a personal trainer for tailored plans.

Bring a gym buddy

If you are nervous to go alone, you can always find someone who is willing to join you. While some gym goers go alone, others often workout with one or more people.

If you know someone who already goes to the gym then great, but if not then you can find someone to go with who knows just as much as you do. You can learn the ropes together.

Finding someone to go with can be great but if that isn’t possible, it’s okay to go alone. You will find you aren’t the only person starting or starting back and nervous to be going in alone.

Motivation vs habits

You see the hyper-achievers who accomplish so much in so little time. These people do not have an endless motivation supply. They have wisely used a variety of habits that aid them in their goals.

Habits are vital in many areas of your life, including physical and mental health, productivity, relationships and self-perception. Whether it is to get healthier generally or improve skills, managing your habits is more than half the battle.

Psychologically, the more you do the behaviour, the more you identify with it. Biologically, the more you do it, the more it is ingrained in your brain's neural network.

As this happens, the habits become something you can complete easily without much thought or resistance. However, this means the longer you have had the habit the harder it will be to stop.

Set specific cue-based goals

Say your goal is to ‘exercise more’ – try defining the quantity and frequency you would like to. For example, ‘do 15-minute cardio sets everyday’.

Making habits cue-based will help you get going and be consistent without much effort. For example, ‘do cardio sets after brushing teeth and shower before class’

Environment

We are easily influenced by people around us. Shown many times in scientific literature, we tend to copy the behaviours of those around us.

So, your bad habits may not be your own. Inform your friends of your goals and perhaps invite them to join you on your journey.

You cannot view the task of creating habits as a burden, or you will be reluctant to commit. Instead, make your habits fun and enjoyable to repeat.

Kettlebells. Image credit: Pexel

Image credit: Pexels

THE ART OF BEING PRESENT

By Julia Benko

YOU'VE probably heard it a million times before: to focus on the present is important. Countless wellbeing websites will tell you that, to be happy, you shouldn’t dwell too much on the past or contemplate the future. Instead, you should be in the here and now.

As easy as that sounds, it can be challenging for someone’s emotional self to keep up with their physical body. Currently, I’m one of those people. I’m a nostalgist: I love reflecting on the past, learning from it and taking it in. I also frequently look towards the future, wondering whether it will be a happy one.

Thinking about it, I should probably ponder less and do more to ensure my future will be positive and successful.

While there is nothing wrong with studying the past and trying to predict the future, it can end up doing more harm than good.

I can be out with friends and, instead of being mentally present, I’m stuck in a loop. Did I turn the oven off? What will I have for dinner? What other changes can I make to my essay? What’s happening in the world? Should I check the news?

It’s an annoying habit, one I’m hoping to change this year. If you’re in the same boat, then keep reading for some helpful advice!

step to take.

When you’re busy or with other people, put your phone on ‘do not disturb’ (my personal favourite), flip it with the screen facing down, or leave it in your bag. Out of sight, out of mind, right?

Pay attention to the little things

Take note of your surroundings. Pay close attention to your senses and how you’re feeling at that given time. If there’s something I’m grateful to lockdown for, it’s that it taught me how to appreciate the environment I’m in more.

You’d be surprised how many small moments of joy you can find just by looking around! Whether it’s other people, a cute dog walking past, or a blooming flower. There’s happiness all around us; you just need to take a closer look.

Practice gratitude

Practising gratitude can make all the difference in being present. Take the time to reflect on all the good aspects in your life. Whether it’s your parents or the sunshine this morning, embrace this feeling of gratitude.

Get rid of distractions

An obvious tip I can offer is to put your phone down. When practising being present, putting aside any distracting tools is the best first

If you feel like taking this to the next level, I’d recommend getting a gratitude journal! It makes you think about what you’re grateful for a little deeper and it’s sweet to look back on when you need an emotional boost.

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Disclaimer:

This article is not a substitute for those who need to talk to someone or need medication for their mental health. If you are struggling, please get in contact with a medical professional such as your GP.

THERAPY TIPS TO USE DAILY

By Emma Christie

IS the pressure of a new year and a fresh start getting to you? Mental health is challenging all-year round, but some suffer even more in the winter and the New Year.

Here are some tips to help stay on top of your anxiety and/or depression.

Analyse Negative Thoughts

Anxiety can hit us randomly and can affect our day-to-day plans. Negative thoughts often come with anxiety, and they aren’t easy to get rid of. This tool breaks down our negative thoughts and helps us to cope with them more efficiently.

On a piece of paper write down the negative thought that you are having. Next, think about evidence to support and contradict this thought – is it likely to come true?

Try thinking about how a friend would look at this thought and what they would do and try looking at this thought in a positive way.

Lastly, think about if this thought were to come true, would it matter in a year or five years from now? Using this tool shows how your thought would play out in a more logical way if it were to happen and this can help to subdue some anxiety surrounding it.

Make Time for What You Enjoy

This is especially relevant to this time of year when everyone is planning big goals and working hard on resolutions. Try not to get caught up in work or school too much, remember to keep some time to yourself for a hobby or some relaxation.

Making the time for such activities can help you remember how fun life can be and you can discover more about yourself while you do so.

Use Positive Coping Strategies

When we feel anxious or depressed, we tend to do things to cope with these feelings, however, sometimes what we do can make us feel worse. Substitute unhealthy coping strategies for healthy ones. This is easier said than done, so start off small and discover what helps you best.

To-do List

To-do lists are great for when you feel too overwhelmed by daily tasks. Break down what you hope to accomplish that day into a list that feels manageable enough to complete.

It doesn’t have to include massive tasks, only add things that you feel you are able to do which can be as simple as making breakfast or going on a walk.

Examples of unhealthy coping strategies include drinking alcohol, not getting enough sleep, or isolating yourself.

Swap these out for getting enough rest at night, talking to your friends or family, or exercising.

While these may be difficult to stick to at first, it is important to keep on doing them and you will feel better in the long run for it.

How to become the best version of you this year

• Reflect on areas of your life that you want to improve

• Set achievable goals

Seek oppotunities and put yourself out there

• Be kind to yourself

Focus on you and your health

Do the things that make you happy

• Surround yourself with the right people

Let go of the past

As with all new habits, learning to be present will take time and effort. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t see any improvements overnight. It might not be easy to tackle, but it’ll be so worth it once you reach the other side!

THE FEMINIST PLEDGE CHANGING GLASGOW

lone women were forced to walk through Kelvingrove Park because of a COP26 diversion.

The park is dimly lit at night, causing concerns from politicians and locals that predators may take advantage of this. This came after concerns had already been raised by the University of Glasgow earlier in the year about Kelvingrove Park. The University had already endorsed a petition that called for more street lighting on both the park and Kelvin Way which is a popular route for students.

The poor lighting was deemed unsafe for a walking route for women and students. However, when politicians were forced to respond to the enquiries the issue appeared more complex than expected.

The council responded with a statement: “It is not common practice to provide lighting within any of our parks due to environmental considerations and to ensure as natural a habitat as possible for local wildlife.”

IN October 2022, Glasgow city councillors unanimously approved a motion to make it the ‘UK’s first feminist city’. The motion was put forward by Green councillor Holly Bruce, and aims to make women the central aspect of ‘planning, public realm, design, policy, development and budgets.’

The motion will mainly affect the 2017 City Development Plan, embedding the newly reformed

town planning into the policy document for when new developments are proposed. The focus is mainly on the approach of reconsidering town infrastructure with women’s safety and mobility at the heart of plans.

This could mean widening footpaths for those with prams or wheelchairs, increasing lighting in parks and other areas at night and ensuring new infrastructure is as

welcoming for a woman as they are for a man.

It also includes the perspective of women in all stages of budget distribution in the city, which follows suit of other council areas such as Edinburgh City Council and North Lanarkshire.

The work within the motion was also a focus from the Young Women’s Movement (YWCA Scotland) which is a project based in Glasgow around the time of the murder of Sarah Everard. Councillor Bruce was a participant in the research programme.

Glasgow is the largest city in Scotland with a population of over 630,000 with 51 per cent of its population being women. The city has a long history in changing the social dynamics and infrastructure.

A key recommendation from YWCA’s work was focused on the buses in Glasgow. 67 per cent of women often felt unsafe or uncomfortable on the city’s buses. The recommendation given was having one simple ticket for all modes of public transport and increased lighting at bus stops and parks. Women are the majority users of public transport. They are more likely to work part time and have responsibilities for children, elderly friends and family, shopping for food and other necessities as well as participating in community-based activities. Traditional men’s mono-dimensional journey to work utilises regular and effective trams and trains that are defined by the rush hours of their work schedules.

They are twice as likely to have

straightforward, twice-a-day travel patterns.

Women often rely on off-peak transports and journeys that are broken into different routes, changes, and connections. The ways cities are laid out often mean the nursery, school, supermarket, and other elements of unpaid labour perpetuated by gender roles are not localised. As a result, their day results in a lot of their time spent waiting and travelling often in an ineffective way.

The safety of women and non-binary people in parks is also a concern within the infrastructure of parks. The parks in Glasgow are not just used as a form of recreation or relaxation, but to get from A to B. From a feminist perspective, this should mean that anyone would feel comfortable walking through at any time of day.

In a survey by YWCA only 20 per cent of participants said they felt very comfortable in their chosen park. This was especially felt at night. Key factors to this were inadequate lighting in parks and a heightened risk of assault, harassment, kidnapping and even murder.

The 2008 murder of Moira Jones in Queen’s Park could be noted here with the murder being closely linked to femicide. The haunting ‘let me know when you get home safe’ as a common parting phrase from women springs to mind.

Out of the participants in the survey 81 per cent said improved lighting would be a solution to feeling unsafe in parks at night. Most recently, concerns were raised during 2021 as people including

Added lighting in the evening could affect pollinators, nocturnal birds and bats.

These have just been the initial recommendations for Scotland’s largest city. Councillor Bruce has said she will investigate these but is aware there is a lot to sort before the policy can make some real difference.

This is not a localised issue, it’s worldwide. Every city in the world will have been built with men in mind.

An architectural firm in Sweden realised they couldn’t think of a single city space project that was designed with women in mind. Women interviewed in Delhi noted they rarely went to parks without a large family party. Miriam Gonzalez set up GeoChicas in Mexico after discovering that as most entries to open-source maps came from men. Sexual health clinics, domestic violence shelters, childcare and hospitals were overlooked on apps such as Google Maps. It now runs across 22 countries in 3 continents.

Glasgow making women the central aspect of town planning may prompt more cities across the UK to have a look at their own infrastructure. The feminist town planning is not an attack on men, nor is it taking away services that benefit them. Surveys from Glasgow City council in 2020 show that 21% of responders felt their needs were met with the current bus system. Changing the system does not mean it will solely benefit women, but it will directly benefit them.

By Charlotte Sutcliffe FEATURES EDITOR

Image Credit: Christian Gamauf

Image Credit: 2023 Cycling World Championships Limited

“For too long, our streets, parks and buildings have been designed by men. The apparently ‘gender-neutral’ approach that we’ve used for centuries has meant that the male perspective has become the default.”

Holly Bruce

WHY LOSING WEIGHT IS THE WORST NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTION

ACCORDING to a survey by Statista, 40 per cent of Americans have resolved to lose weight in 2023 - the third most common resolution. This is not a new trend, and every January sees gym memberships and athleisure purchases soar.

Weight loss as an issue is astonishingly complex. The more you learn, the more you realise just how little we know. There’s so much to unpack, and that’s before we start down the path of why people want to lose weight.

Maintaining a healthy diet and exercising are both unequivocally good for you. There have been studies that show calorie restriction has negative ramifications for health outcomes, and that processed food is very unhealthy. Exercise too, in moderate quantities, is almost universally positive.

However, for many years we have had it drilled into us that the pinnacle of health is epitomised by thinness: daily gym visits, tiny portions, fad diets, and an overall patina of misery. The words “obesity epidemic” are seared into our minds, and an unacceptable BMI score can be a reason for doctors to deny treatment.

The BMI, short for the Body-Mass Index, is an insidious ghoul, looming over much of this conversation. Many people know the soundbite that Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson would be classified as obese under

the BMI measurements, and it's a common refrain when someone is expressing their own dismay.

There’s a lot more to this ‘Rock paradox’ than most people know. It was invented in 1830ss Belgium and was known as the Quetelet Index after its creator. Adolphe Quetelet wasn’t a medical professional: he was a statistician. Crucially, he was very clear that population measures couldn’t be used in relation to individuals. Adapted through the years by insurance companies, the Quetelet Index was picked up in the 1970s by researcher Ancel Keys.

Keys, who was also not a medical professional, renamed Quetelet’s Index the Body Mass Index and weight became, for the first time, an indicator of health.

To really emphasise the point: the BMI was never intended to be used for individuals and was devised by statisticians, not medical professionals.

So, the whole system used for ranking fatness is problematic, but this is far from the only reason why losing weight makes for a bad New Year’s resolution. A further issue arises when people who claim to be body positive - people who would never admit to thinness being a goal or motivator for them. They still want to lose weight, but to get healthier rather than to get thin.

‘Fat’ is used as a shorthand for ‘unhealthy’ frequently in society and it’s both totally unnecessary

and demonstrably false. There is a widely cited study saying that obesity causes over 300,000 deaths per year. What many people who quote that number don’t know is that the study was retracted shortly after publication. What people also don’t understand is contextualising the data of how obesity affects mortality.

Nobody’s death certificate says “died of being fat”. To say that obesity causes deaths is a simplification from complex aggregate data on correlation down into a headline. The problem is exacerbated by long years of anti-fat stigma: people know that the marriage certificate isn’t what causes married people to have lower mortality rates but are much less willing to see the same messy combination of correlations apply to fatness and mortality.

When you look more closely at the data, it is true that very fat people have a higher mortality rate, but so do very thin people. Overweight and obese people are actually protected against some causes of death.

Indeed, fat people who exercise regularly and eat a nutritious diet are more likely to be healthy than thin people who eat trash and don’t exercise.

The stigma and bias that fat people face is more than enough that no matter the murky history and debatable connection to health, the desire to lose weight can still

be understood. Unfortunately, the complexity does not stop there. Even if you are still resolved to lose weight, it is exceptionally difficult.

If you feel fat in the new year, the only action you can take to succeed is to dismantle your own unconscious anti-fat biases. Educate yourself about the science surrounding weight loss. Advocate for inclusive clothes sizing. Don’t treat fat people like they have committed some dire social sin. Obesity is not a behaviour that can be changed.

Resolutions work best when they are specific and measurable.

Instead of something woolly, where

it’s hard to ever define success, get really close. “I want to be able to climb the stairs to my fourth floor flat without getting out of breath” or “I’m going to get takeaway at most once per week”. These resolutions are both specific, so you know where to focus your efforts, and measurable. This makes them easier to achieve and you can start your new year with success rather than the general feeling of unease that comes with “this year, lose weight.”

By Ali Rees

Image Credit: Gustavo Fring

BRIG'S BITES

THE SECRET COCKTAIL INGREDIENT YOU NEED TO KNOW

By Freya Deyell FOOD EDITOR

THE world of mixology can be daunting and expensive for students. Most of us don’t want to spend a fortune on obscure ingredients that will only be used a handful of times (we just want the drink to taste decent and get us drunk, let’s be honest).

But there is a simple way to upgrade your cocktail game with just one ingredient – and it’s probably sitting in your cupboard right now.

The humble jar of jam can elevate simple drinks like gin and tonic to something even classier and flavoursome.

SUPER SLOW COOKER BEEF RAGU

By Ali Rees

THIS ragu pairs well with gnocchi or pasta, over baked potatoes, wrapped in a tortilla and baked into enchiladas.

Using a slow cooker is cheaper and more energy efficient than an oven.

The ragu can be left to cook all day whilst you’re out at uni or work, perfect for when you're busy with assignments.

Method

Step one:

Turn the slow cooker to its lowest setting. Heat the olive oil in a pan. Combine the flour with a good pinch of salt and pepper and dust the beef with it.

Over a high heat, cook the floured beef for 4-5 minutes, until it’s nicely browned.

Step two:

Simply stir the jam until slack, add about a teaspoon to your cocktail shaker with alcohol and make your drink as usual. No

cocktail shaker? No problem! A few ice cubes in a clean jam jar will do the job. Strain before serving to avoid lumps and seeds.

The sugar in jam will provide the sweetness that simple syrup brings to classic cocktails. The jam also offers a tartness that you get from fresh fruit, for a fraction of the

price. Experiment with flavours and different spirits. Gin and raspberry, vodka and marmalade, there’s bound to be something for everyone.

WHY DOES SCOTLAND LOVE MAC AND CHEESE?

Prep time: 30 minutes

Cooking time: 8 hours

Skill level : 3/5

Serves: 4

Ingredients

∙Splash of olive oil

∙600g beef (skirt or stewing steak) , chopped into 1-inch cubes

∙2 tbsp plain or corn flour

∙100g bacon or pancetta, chopped

∙2 onions, diced

∙2 carrots, diced

∙2 celery sticks, diced

∙6 garlic cloves, crushed

∙1 tbsp rosemary (fresh or dry)

∙100ml milk

∙2 heaped tbsp tomato puree

∙200ml white wine or white wine

vinegar

∙400ml beef stock (made with stock cubes is fine)

∙Salt, pepper, and caster sugar to taste

Set aside the beef and turn the heat down to medium. Add the bacon, carrots, onions, celery, garlic, and rosemary and cook until the veg has softenedaround 8 minutes. Stir frequently so it doesn’t stick.

Step three:

Pour in the milk and continue to cook until mostly evaporated, then add the tomato puree and stir through for a coupe of minutes.

Step four:

Add the wine and cook until it has reduced by about half.

Step five:

Add the veg mix, the beef, and the stock to the slow cooker and mix well.

Step six:

Leave for around 8 hours. Before serving, taste and add salt, pepper, and caster sugar to taste - a pinch of each should be enough.

By Rebecca Crockett

QUELLING hangovers and heartbreaks for hundreds of years, macaroni and cheese is a staple of Scottish comfort food. The subtle blend of velvety cheese sauce and crispy breadcrumbs is enough to appease even the most ferocious of appetites.

But the addition of mac and cheese to Scotland’s culinary tradition often raises eyebrows, especially when it’s placed amongst the countless deep-fried delicacies. The history behind Scotland’s love of this dish varies depending on the teller, just like the recipe itself.

However, the link between Italian immigration to Scotland is a

popular origin story for the meal.

Italians first began making homes in Scotland in the 1880s.

By 1914 there were almost 4,500 native Italians living here. From then on, Italian workers influenced Scottish culture by finding jobs in local shops and cafes.

Like most fledgling movements, it was the working classes that embraced this merge of cultures. For the first time the working people of Scottish cities were being introduced to fish suppers, ice cream shops and, of course, macaroni and cheese.

It wasn’t all smooth sailing though. Italian people living in Scotland faced huge levels of xenophobic hate. In 1940, when

It takes a lot of courage to proudly share your culture in the face of such blatant discrimination.

But Italians living in Scotland at the time were up to the challenge and their influence is still felt in the 21st century.

Today there are between 70,000 and 100,000 Italian Scots living in Scotland who continue to enrich our cultural scene.

But whether it be baked into pies, deep fried, or eaten as it comes – it is the humble mac and cheese that has endured above all else and will survive for years to come.

A simple way to make great cocktails. Image Credit: Dziana Hasanbekava

Mussolini declared war on Britain, Italian families were targeted with many facing deportation or imprisonment.

The perfect dinner on a cold night. Image Credit: Ronmar Lacamiento on Pexels

EVERY STIRLING UNI CAMPUS HOT CHOCOLATE, RANKED

By Stirling Uni Hot Chocolate Reviewers

FOR any Stirling students with a social media presence, these guest writers require no introduction. The Stirling University Hot Chocolate Reviewers have over 300 followers on Instagram, and they have been entertaining us with their wit since March 2022. Brig is excited to share this exclusive piece by the mysterious reviewers.

The last time we ranked the university’s hot chocolates was back during the end of the last spring semester in May. Since then, however, both our personal opinions have changed and the team we have reviewing hot chocolates has drastically shifted, meaning that our perspective on the hot chocolates around the university has also shifted. We will start with our least favourite and move through the different outlets until we reach our favourite.

4. Refresh

Refresh is a location we have only reviewed once and judging by our first impressions, it isn’t a place we will be eager to return to. This was very bland, barely stirred and was essentially just warm milk at the end of the day. We certainly hope that they have improved before we make a future trip back here.

3. Scran

Scran isn’t bad, it’s just incredibly inconsistent. Some days you get a 10/10, other days you receive boiling brown water. In the past, our chief reviewer speculated that it depended on who made the hot chocolate, though they then proceeded to prove that this was not the case. It would appear that something out of anyone’s power determines the quality of the hot chocolate here, and we are as fearful of it as many people seem to be of the Scran hot chocolate. On a good day these are full of flavour, sprinkled with cocoa powder and fairly enjoyable.

2. Macrobert’s Theatre

Macrobert’s used to be the highest ranked hot chocolate in our ranking, though we recently felt as if they dropped off in quality. We aren’t sure what happened, but they are still far more consistently good than other outlets. Their flavour is very distinct, they’re very milky and they normally always come with a good amount of warmth.

1. Underground

Underground has now gone up by one in our ranking, as they have both improved and stayed more consistent than the other two outlets over the past few months. They usually put cream on top of theirs and this overall adds a kind of luxuriousness to their hot chocolate. The flavour is unmistakeably chocolate, and despite a few small blips and them once receiving the lowest ever score we’ve given out, they still do probably the best job on campus.

BRIDGE OF ALLAN: AN UNDERRATED FOODIE HOTSPOT

By Ali Rees

A PICTURESQUE historical village just 20 minutes’ walk from the University of Stirling campus, Bridge of Allan is a foodie’s dream. It boasts a surprisingly large range of excellent options for a relatively small town and can cater for most occasions, including dietary needs.

As well as a range of fabulous options for eating out, there’s also a butcher’s, a cheese shop (a whole shop dedicated to cheese!), and an eco-grocery store with a wide array of plastic-free food refills and tons of vegan options (vegan horseradish, anyone?).

Best for coffee and lunch: Ciao, Henderson Street

Hours: 8am - 4pm, Monday to Saturday

Run by a local and lovely Scottish-Italian family, Ciao serves the best coffee in the town. They also sell sandwiches, salads, other lunch options, and fabulous gelato. Also, perfect if you’re feeling lazy, Ciao sells incredible “ready meals” - single portions of delicious homemade pasta and sauce and freshly made pizzas. They offer a hot drink loyalty card - collect 6 stamps and get your next hot drink for free.

Best for a date: Friend of Mine, Henderson Street

Hours: 9am – Late, Monday to Sunday

Friend of Mine is a relaxed bar and bistro with an extremely modern approach to food. Menu items are fresh and exciting and always live up to expectations. Their range of gluten free and vegan options is really excellent, and nobody will feel like they are getting the short end of the stick when you eat at Friend of Mine. If you want a table on a weekend, make sure to book online to avoid disappointment.

Best takeaway: The Allanwater Cafe, Henderson Street

Hours: 11am to 8pm, Wednesday to Monday (closed Tuesday)

The Allanwater Cafe is undoubtedly the best chippy in Stirlingshire. The chips are soft and delicious, battered options never too greasy, and they do a gluten free day every Wednesday with gluten free batter, vinegar, curry sauce and everything else.

Best for when your parents are visiting (and paying): La Cucina, Henderson Street

Hours: Monday 12pm - 2.30pm for lunch, 5pm - 10pm for dinner, Saturday and Sunday 12pm - 10pm

La Cucina is a lovely Italian restaurant which sources traditional Italian ingredients, ensuring every dish is authentic and delicious. They offer great seasonal specials and a takeaway menu. Note that they don’t have gluten free markers on the menu so ensure you check with a waiter before ordering.

All in walking distance of the univeristy. Image Credit: Discover Bridge of Allan

Baked celeriac. Image Credit: Friend of Mine

Can't beat a chippy. Image Credit: The Allanwater Cafe

EX-GOLF SCHOLAR EAGER FOR FIRST FULL STINT ON EUROPEAN TOUR

By John Turnbull SPORTS EDITOR

LOUISE Duncan admits she feels relieved to be playing on the Ladies European Tour this season, after a remarkable comeback at Q-School in La Manga.

The former University of Stirling golfer fought back from the brink of elimination in December to secure one of the spots up for grabs for those who finished within the top 20 and ties.

Duncan, who finished tied for 19th in last year’s AIG Women’s

Open at Muirfield, told the Scotsman: “it was a nervy last few holes, and it's been a long few weeks, so I am very happy for it to be over now.”

After securing her LET card with an unlikely birdie on the 90th and final hole of qualifying, the West Kilbride golfer described earning playing rights as “a little bit of relief.”

Having left a 20-yard bunker shot, Duncan needed to get up and down for birdie to secure a first full season on tour and did so.

But, more impressive was the resolve she showed to bounce back after being 13 over par after two rounds of pre-qualifying.

A spot in final qualifying was then earned after a two-underpar third round and a five-underpar final round.

Duncan, set for a season on the paid ranks insisted there are parts of her game in need of improvement but is looking forward to the challenge.

She told The National: “My short game and putting are nowhere near the standard they should be

IS CHEERLEADING A SPORT?

THE main crux is the fact that the origin of cheerleading is in entertainment on the sidelines of sporting events.

97% of cheerleaders are female but cheerleading began as an all-male activity at Princeton University. In 1897, the University football officials wanted to begin organised cheering for the football teams and appointed ‘cheer leaders’.

It wasn’t until World War II that women began dominating the sport. This was the point where the elements that are recognised today came into play; gymnastics, tumbling and pyramids.

As cheerleading began to become more popular, negative stereotypes ensued. Films began portraying cheerleaders as being centred around popularity, vanity and pettiness which further took away its credibility as something to be taken seriously and much further away from it being seen as a sport.

The largest step to cheerleading being accepted was in July 2021

where the International Olympic Committee “voted in favour of granting full recognition to the International Cheer Union (ICU) and cheerleading, making one of America’s oldest examples of teamwork eligible to apply to be included in the Olympics program.”

The sports for the 2024 Olympic games in Paris had already been approved meaning 2028 Games in Los Angeles will be the first possibility for the debut. With America being the founders of the sport, many believe if it’s going to debut it will be at this Olympics.

Although the Olympics have accepted it other major organisations haven’t. The National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA) does not have cheerleading in the category of sport.

Regardless of what organisation defines cheerleading as there is no doubt that the people involved are athletes.

They train at a competitive level learning difficult skills and abilities not dissimilar to gymnastics, a

recognised sport.

President of the Cheerleading Club Rebecca Leiper said: “I would say that cheer is definitely not recognised as a sport by a wide range of people and a lot of people don’t actually understand what it is that we do.

“When you mention cheerleading a lot of people think you mean you stand at the side of a pitch with pom poms and sing chants when actually our style of cheerleading is so much more than that.

“We incorporate the best of dance and gymnastics and it takes real strength and stamina to be successful

“Our club sometimes feels like people within the university don’t recognise us as a sport and sometimes we are slightly unrecognised us as a club unfortunately.”

Cheerleading is certainly growing and with the Olympic potential, opinions may sway.

Until then, it’s still an uphill climb.

By Charlotte Sutcliffe

but targeting those weaknesses gives me a focus over the winter.

“It’s exciting knowing there is more to come from my game. I know what I’m capable of and I’ll go on tour with great belief.”

The 22-year-old’s caddie, Dean Robertson, is expecting big things from his mentee as he follows her journey onto the Ladies European Tour.

Robertson, who won the Italian Open during his playing career, believes Duncan is destined for the top.

He told the Scotsman: “By

earning her tour card, she now has the platform to kick on and develop in a couple of key areas, which, when she does, could see her not only become a leading player in Europe but make a name for herself on a world stage.

“Louise has proven that the bigger the pressure, the better she plays, and in top-level golf to be able to embrace those feelings and be at one’s best is massive. You either have that or you don’t."

Louise Duncan in action. Image credit: University of Stirling

Cheerleading began as an all-male actvity at Princeton University. Image credit: Zoe Watt

GOLD FOR STIRLING CURLER AT WORLD UNIVERITY GAMES

MUAY THAI CLUB TO HOST FIGHT NIGHT IN STIRLING

By Andrew Robson SPORTS EDITOR

STIRLING student James Craik led his men’s curling team to gold at the Winter World University Games in Lake Placid.

The sports scholar skipped his rink of Mark Watt, Angus Bryce, former Stirling student Blair Haswell and alternate Jack Carrick as they beat the United States of America 5-1 in Saturdays one-sided final.

Representing team GB, the men’s

team finished the round-robin with eight wins and one defeat. They then beat Canada 6-4 in a tight semi-final on Thursday evening, before their game against the hosts in the final.

After victory Craik said: “Progressing through to the playoffs was a very exciting thing for us. We knew we had some really tough games ahead of us.

“Beating Canada twice on Thursday, then managing to follow that up with a win against the USA in the final was key.

“Having the home crowd against us slightly was a little bit difficult, but we were quite glad to hush them after the second end.”

“The boys in front of me have played phenomenally and really just proved that we are a cut above everyone else thanks to the British Curling programme which has put us in shape to go out all week and conduct ourselves very professionally.

“Our consistency was the difference between all the rest of the teams and us.”

STIRLING GOLF CLUB SET FOR RETURN OF TARTAN TOUR EVENT

By John Turnbull SPORTS EDITOR

PGA Scotland’s Arnold Clark Tartan Tour will return to Stirling this year, as Stirling Golf club is set to host one of nine Order of Merit events.

The 36-hole Order of Merit Challenge, won by Gavin Hay last year, will take place between May 10 and 11.

The East Renfrewshire pro carded rounds of 68 and 67 to triumph by two shots with a final score of nine-under-par.

Stirling’s secretary Garry Bowman is looking forward to the highly competitive stop on tour, as the club prepares for another successful year.

Bowman said: “This season we are once again hosting the PGA

Order of Merit event, which will see a top field of professionals grace our fairways.

“Our course continues to develop under Course Manager James Lindsay, ably supported by his team who present the course magnificently throughout the season.

“This is also an opportunity for our Pro-shop team led by Kenny Monaghan and aided by Scott Borrowman, to remind the members of Stirling Golf Club that they can still play the game to a high standard.

“Our members will come out in large numbers to watch the fantastic golf on offer, hopefully in glorious weather, as has been the case in previous years.”

Stirling member, Borrowman, was the club’s highest finisher in the event last season, as the Scot

finished tied-14th on two-underpar after rounds of 68 and 74.

The robust tour schedule tees off in April and runs through until October when the top 10 players on the final Order of Merit will play for the Tour Championship on the King’s Course at Gleneagles.

The Scottish PGA Championship will be the penultimate counting event on the Order of Merit, with the showpiece event set to be held at Scotscraig Golf Club.

Stirling Golf Club’s strong association with PGA Scotland also means the PGA-Pro Captain Challenge will return to the course this year.

Clubs from all over Scotland will send their Club Captain and Professionals to Stirling in July to compete in what Bowman describes once again as an ‘extremely popular event.’

THE Muay Thai Club at the University of Stirling will host a fight night in the Albert Halls on Friday 10 February.

The event takes place between Muay Thai clubs from universities across Scotland in what promises to be a “a perfect student night out.”

Doors will open at 6pm with the first fight getting underway at 7pm.

Speaking about the event Welfare Officer Ross Stanton said: “We plan to achieve a successful night that’s student friendly and a great night out.

“We want to show what Thai boxing is and show everyone what the smaller clubs at the Uni can do.” Club Secretary Alicia Bohill added: “It’s going to be a fantastic night out and it will be a great way to have a social with your sports teams.

“There will be a bar at the event and we’ve booked a DJ and an announcer for all the fights.”

Tickets to the event will go on sale Monday 30 January.

Packages include tickets for ringside seats and further information can be found on the Muay Thai Instagram page.

SPORTS UNION SHOWCASE

ON Wednesday 25 January, the Sports Union will host a showcase day, to persuade students to join one of the many sports clubs at Stirling.

The day will feature a range of activities that all students can take part in, as well as giving students the opportunity to watch some of the sports teams in action.

There are two activities taking place aimed to engage disabled students, but all students are welcome. Wheelchair Basketball will take place in SH2 from 11-11:45 and Boccia from 12-12:45.

The other two activities taking place are Dodgeball at 1-1:45 and Pickleball at 2:2:45.

Both new students and current students are welcome.

Additionally, the following BUCS fixtures take place throughout the day:

Women's Rugby - Airthery Pitch 5 2-4pm

Men's Tennis 2s and 5s - Tennis Courts 9am-2pm

Women's Basketball - Sports Hall 1 6.30-8pm

Men's and Women's 1s FootballGannochy 3G Pitch 1-5pm

Women's Football 3s - Gannochy Pitch 2 1-3pm

Men's Football 3s - Gannochy Pitch 3 3-5pm

Women's Hockey 1s - Hockey Pitch 1-3pm

Men's and Women's HandballSports Hall 1 2-5pm

Sports Union President Murray Bushell said: “This will provide new students with the opportunity to see what a Bucs Wednesday is like and come along to watch some of our new teams.

“The hope is that the day will provide ample opportunity for clubs to communicate with new students and encourage them to go their Give It A Go session.”

Team GB defeated the USA 5-1 in the Final. Image credit: BUCS Sports / Jack Hodgetts

Packages include tickets for ring-side seats. Image credit: Muay Thai Club

FOOTBALLERS COMPLETE BUCS TITLE HAT-TRICK

THE University of Stirling Men’s First football team claimed a third consecutive BUCS Premier North title last week.

Needing just one point from the final two league games of the season, it looked as though it might come down to the tenth league game after trailing Durham University 3-1 at half-time.

But a spirited second-half comeback earned the student footballers a draw in England to secure three British Universities and Colleges Sport titles in a row.

Head coach Chris Geddes said: “Three BUCS Premier Norths in a row, Stirling Uni have never done that! I think they had only won two until my staff and the players came in.

“The boys are producing the goods; everyone fights for each other, and there is a real togetherness. Every player knows their place in the squad, and for this BUCS campaign, everyone has contributed at one point.

“It is difficult when you know you only need a point, but we never played for the draw – in the second half we showed why we are the best team in the league.

“You don’t win a title too often in your career, so for us to win three for the University is impressive.”

Midfielder James Stokes got Stirling’s only first-half goal after Geddes’ side fell behind early on in England, but Durham pulled clear

before half-time to set up a daunting task for the away side.

The hope of more historic achievement was restored halfway through the second period, though, as Stirling got one back before Euan McGill completed the comeback five minutes later.

Having made a habit of scoring important goals, McGill said:

“It is a really good feeling. We always backed ourselves and knew that to win the league we only needed to win 2-0 in the second half.

“We just kept digging in, and we got there in the end.”

It was not just a third title in a row for the University but also a handful of the fourth years too, including McGill, who has been involved throughout the prolonged University success.

Goalkeeper Ben Fry highlighted the scale of the achievement as another of the three-time winners club.

He said: “Outside of University football, people probably don’t know how big an achievement it is, but we know playing these games and coming down on these away trips, it’s a tough ask to win one title and, so it’s a tough ask to win three in a row.”

By John Turnbull SPORTS EDITOR

UNI FALL TO CLINICAL COWDENBEATH IN FIFE

THE University of Stirling suffered their second defeat of the month to Cowdenbeath but remain only three points behind leaders Rangers B in the Lowland League.

Second-half strikes from Scott Sinclair and Jack Garrad sealed all three points for the home side in a game of few chances.

Following the defeat head coach Chris Geddes was frustrated with the manner of the defeat. He said: “I’m disappointed, we didn’t deserve to lose.

“The wind played a factor in both halves, but in the first half with the wind on our side, we didn’t test their goalie enough.

“In the second half against it, we caused them problems, but their defenders threw themselves at everything and they were good on the counter.

“It’s disappointing because we did have opportunities, it’s a tough day and it’s going to be a learning experience for us.

“Listen, it was a hard day for both teams, but sadly for us we were on the wrong end of it.”

With the wind on their side, Stirling started on top. A series of

long throws from Matty Burrows caused problems in the box but the Uni failed to find a crucial final touch.

Cowdenbeath would have an early chance of their own, a short Marcus Lavery back pass presented the Cowdenbeath forward with a one-on-one but an equally poor first touch would give Fry the chance to collect.

The most exciting moment of the first half came when Uni captain James Berry whipped a cross towards the back post. His cross, assisted by the swirling wind, required Cowdenbeath keeper Daniel Farrell to push the ball onto the bar at full stretch as it looped goalward.

The second half presented both sides with opportunities to take the lead early on. First Fry saved well at his near post before McKinlay sliced an effort wide at the other end.

On 54 minutes Fry was once again called into action, tipping a low shot from Sean Slaven wide but the Uni would fail to clear the resulting corner. The ball fell to Scott Sinclair who turned and smashed it into the net giving Cowdenbeath the lead.

The Uni would push for an equaliser as the second half progressed,

the best chance falling to Euan McGill who failed to hit the target with a flick at the near post.

Cowdenbeath’s second would come on the 90-minute mark. Fry’s kick landing at the feet of substitute Jack Garrad who took a touch and placed the ball into the empty net from 25 yards.

Despite Cowdenbeath’s position in the table, they boast one of the best defensive records in the division. Led by captain Jordan Armstrong the Cowdenbeath backline defended their box well throughout.

Stirling have the chance to bounce back midweek when they travel to Durham in the BUCS Premier North only needing a point to clinch the league title. Geddes said: “Full focus goes to Durham, we need a point, so we’ll go down there and try to get that result.

“It’s a good opportunity for the boys, we know what’s on the line.

“When we get into training on Monday, we’ll hopefully have forgotten about this one because it was disappointing, but the focus turns to the BUCS game then the cup game next weekend.”

By Andrew Robson SPORTS EDITOR

Scottish Lowland Football League

FROM BACK PAGE

...A heated second-round clash with Dunbar United followed, which included a dramatic sending-off seen by over six million people online.

Next came League Two side Albion Rovers and the chance to surpass any Stirling Uni team that had come before.

A famous win followed.

Euan McGill’s extra-time winner would take the University of Stirling into the Scottish Cup fourth round for the first time in the club’s history. In the process, they became the first university side to make it as far in over 50 years.

Their reward – Premiership side Dundee United.

If the opportunity of a great Scottish Cup upset wasn’t enough motivation for the players, messages from Sir Alex Ferguson, Craig Brown, Lilian Thuram and Neil Warnock would make any underdog believe they had a chance –however slim.

And backed by an away support of 1,047 fans – made up of family, friends, alumni and even University Principal Sir Gerry McCormac – the players had the whole university cheering them on.

“What a crowd, it was like a home game for us,” said Geddes at full-time.

Buoyed on by chants of “Unayyy” the first chance of the game fell to Jason Jarvis. The midfielder forcing Mark Brighitti into a low save at his near post.

A wake-up call for the home side, who were now well aware this would be no walk in the park.

The students limited Dundee United to very few chances in the first half, with Charlie Mulgrew’s headed effort cleared from the line proving to be their only shot on target until minute 44.

The home side controlled possession, but the Uni caused them trouble on the break. James Stokes

had a shout for a penalty when it appeared he was shoved to the ground by Aziz Behich, but the ref was unmoved.

“I see why Dundee United didn’t want VAR,” Geddes joked. “That’s the type of luck you need in these games, a penalty or a mistake.”

United would open the scoring just before halftime. Steven Fletcher headed the ball back across the box and Aziz Behich turned and slammed it into the roof of the net.

A crushing blow for the students who barely put a foot wrong.

In the second half a driving run from Ben Heal resulting in a shot proved to be the student's best chance.

But while some of the players

may have tired, the travelling support did not. Chants of “is this a library?” and “Dundee’s a sh*thole, we wanna go home” echoed around Tannadice.

The home side scored their second on minute 65 when a deflected cross sat up well for Jamie McGrath who brilliantly bicycled his effort past Fry.

United would add a third through Glen Middleton with 10 minutes left to play.

Following defeat Geddes said: “Listen we just played a Premier League side and got beat 3-0, we kept them relatively quiet for 45 minutes and then they scored right on half time.

“I’m proud as punch.

“We go away with our heads held high.

“Dundee United showed why they are a Premier League team, but they were very complimentary of my guys.”

That sentiment was echoed by Dundee United manager Liam Fox who said: “I’ve got to give credit to Stirling Uni, they worked their socks off and made it difficult for us.

“It was a massive day for these guys and they worked incredibly hard.”

For the players at the University of Stirling it was a day they will not forget in a hurry, helped by the fact the United players were more than willing to give them their shirts at

full-time.

A fitting memento for the players who took part in the University of Stirling’s greatest game.

Dundee United: Birighitti, Smith, Mulgrew, Graham, Fletcher (Cudjoe 73’), Sibbald (Harkes 82’), Behich, McGrath (Pawlett 68’), Levitt, Freeman (Niskanen 73’), MacLeod (Middleton 68’).

University of Stirling: Fry, Gilmour, Service, Lavery, Berry (Aslanoglu 79’), Heal, Jarvis (Russell 70’), Stokes (Munro 87’), McKinley (Rae 70’), MaciverRedwood, McGill (McAninch 70’).

By Andrew Robson SPORTS EDITOR

SPORTING STARS BACKED FOOTBALLERS AHEAD OF DUNDEE UNITED DEFEAT

By Nathan Hassett

STARS of the sporting world- including Sir Alex Ferguson- rallied around University of Stirling footballers before their historic Scottish Cup Fourth Round tie with Dundee United.

Further messages of support flooded in from some of the biggest names in sport, with Judy Murray and even former French international footballer Lilian Thuram sending their best wishes. University of Stirling alumni Eve Muirhead and Ross Murdoch also voiced their admiration for the team’s achievements and sent messages of encouragement.

Amongst the names was former Scotland boss Craig Brown – whose grandson and namesake played

for the University for four years, captaining the side in the 2020/21 season.

In a short film sent to players and coaching staff, Brown – who managed the Scottish national team between 1993 and 2001 – said: “I wish you all the very best ahead of your cup tie at Tannadice on Saturday. I saw your team quite often in the last few years and I thought they were excellent.”

He added: “You guys can create history, I’m certain, and everyone out with the Dundee United fans will be hoping for a cup upset. They need look no further, I hope, than Tannadice on Saturday because, if you’re on form, and you get them on a dodgy day, there’s an opportunity for a shock result.”

More than 1,000 supporters

– comprising students, staff, alumni, and members of the local community – travelled to support the team for their clash with Premiership side Dundee United.

Despite the defeat, It was a landmark achievement for the University, with David Bond, Head of Performance Sport saying in the build-up: “We are incredibly proud of everything that the players, Chris, and his coaching staff, have achieved this season."

The team, managed by head coach Chris Geddes, became the first university side to reach the last 32 of the Scottish Cup in more than 50 years.

Geddes’ side beat Albion Rovers in the third-round, with midfielder Euan McGill scoring the only goal of the game in extra time.

More than 1,000 supporters were in the away end at Tannadice. Image credit: Geroge Vekic

Uni headcoach was "proud as punch" at full time. Image credit: George Vekic

By Andrew Robson SPORTS EDITOR

THE University of Stirling’s historic cup run may have come to an end, but the Lowland League side certainly more than deserved praise following defeat to Dundee United on Saturday.

In a week that included an away trip to Durham to seal the BUCS Premier North title for the third consecutive season, it's perhaps strange to say this was their greatest performance yet.

Head coach Chris Geddes can be extremely proud of how hard the students fought as they faced a

In fact, he struggled to hold back a smile at full-time with Sportscene presenter Amy Irons suggesting that Geddes was the happiest manager of the day at full-time.

And why not – his side gave it everything.

Geddes and his side have been on a historic journey that started with victory against Lothian Thistle in September.....

Craik in Action. Image credit: Jack Hodgetts

Stirling faced a Dundee United side than contained ex-Scotland internationals Steven Fletcher and Charlie Mulgrew. Image credit: Geroge Vekic

Captain James Berry takes in the traveling support. Image: Geroge Vekic

Louise Duncan. Image credit: University of Stirling

United line-up that included with ex-Scotland internationals Steven Fletcher and Charlie Mulgrew, and Australian World Cup star Aziz Behich.