The Demon Issue 79

The Demon covers Aaron Porter stepping down as NUS President

Kayla Mulcahy continues her journey across Japan

Varsity Special

Pages 2 & 7

Diablo Page 12

Demon Pages 8–12

Meet the men and women battling it out against Leicester Uni this year.

Issue 79

8 March 2011 The Newspaper of the Students of De Montfort University

Circulation 2,000

FREE

Davis wins presidency

DSU's newly elected President Liam Davis is to lead team of all male executives Victoria Coffey and Naomi Marcus News Editors

Your votes have been cast and the results are in; it’s an all male executive team for 2011/2012!

Taking over from Andy Schooledge is Liam Davis who won with a total of 987 votes. He said: "I’m really pleased to have been elected as the Students' Union President for the 2011-12 year.

"Students are facing difficult times over the next 12 to 18 months with government cuts coming left right and centre and its vital that the SU has a strong voice next year to make sure that students get the best deal possible whilst here at DMU. Next year’s team will have a hard task to match the achievements of this year’s team but I’m positive that they are up to the task!"

Carrying on as Deputy President Education for another year is Azhar Maqsood who won by a waterfall of 705 votes.

The role of Vice President Media and Communications was awarded to David Winter who was unopposed and won with a total of 715 votes.

Speaking of his victory, David said: “It is a real honour and a privilege to be elected into the role of VP Media and Communications. I am very conscious of the fact that my only opposition was the reopen nominations option and as such I am extremely determined to prove to the student body that I am the best candidate for the job, and that I will work as hard as I possibly can for them. I am most looking forward to

News in Brief Woman found guilty of double murder Hazel Stewart, 48. from Coleraine in County Antrim, has been found guilty of the murder of her husband, and her ex-lover's wife.

Trevor Buchanan and Lesley Howell were found dead in a gas-filled car in May 1991, in what looked like a suicide pact. However two years ago Colin Howell confessed to killing the pair, and was sentenced to life.

On Wednesday 2nd March, Hazel Stewart was also sentenced to life imprisonment for her role in the murders, which left four children without a mother, and two children without a father.

Lesley Howell's daughter Lauren said: "We rejoice in the contribution our mum made to our lives in the short time we had together."

DSU EXECUTIVE 2010-12 (Left to Right): David Winter [VP Media & Communications], Liam Davis [Union President], Zubair Sidat [VP Welfare]

seeing how far we can push Demon media forward as a team.”

Vice President Student Activities will be Ismail Khatib who won the role after taking 714 votes. The final executive position went to Zubair Sidat with the role of Vice President Welfare who received 661 votes.

Part-time student officer positions were also assigned in this election.

Communications Officer will be Kristina Cook; Charles Frears Officer will be Jason Charles; Ben Vear will be

Community and Involvement Officer; International Students Officer will be Nadein Saleh; LGBT Officer will be Jay Evanson; Mature Students Officer will be Andy Heard; Societies Officer will be Jessica Wilson; Academic Board Representative will be Damilare Akintade; Chair of Student Council will be Isra’a Al-Ansari; Student Council Open Place will be Jessica Cooke; NUS Delegates will be Damilare Akintade and Michael Denoual.

Jessica Wilson, who won the role of

Societies Officer with 388 votes said: “I am so amazed that I got the role and I promise to do the job as best as I can, and prove why I was the right person for the role! I plan to build on the reputation of societies within DMU and DSU, and help individual societies so they can gain their maximum potential.”

Andy Schooledge said: "I am very happy with the new team, who are all very aware of the challenges that face them, but I know they will do an excellent job and wish them all the best of luck."

DSU RAG launches Escape and Evade DSU RAG Society has launched this popular fundraising event again this year for the students of DMU to get involved in.

On 11 March students will depart from campus with the intention of exploring the UK with no budget whatsoever. The aim of the event if to raise money for the charity UNICEF whilst having fun!

2 | Tuesday 8 March 2011

News Aaron Porter stands down as NUS President Victoria Coffey News Editor

NUS President, Aaron Porter has announced he will not stand in the NUS re-elections following severe criticism from students across the nation.

Although Mr. Porter previously expressed his interest in running for a second term, he has now stated that a “fresh start” is needed for the NUS. Mr. Porter said: “I have inevitably drawn criticism this year.

That baggage would have stopped NUS from what needed to be done, which is representing the majority of students. I feel we are going into a new landscape next year, and I think we need a fresh start to ensure NUS moves forward.”

Mr. Porter, who has led the NUS since July 2010, saw the union through a turbulent year as student demonstrations made news headlines.

When organised protests took a turn towards violence, Mr. Porter quickly condemned the perpetrators, however, he received criticism from the more radical members of the student movement who called for his resignation. Last month, the President was forced to leave a demonstration in Manchester after activists pelted him with eggs and chanted for his departure.

Despite initially taking on the role with the intention to fight for free education, the President has been criticised for pushing graduate tax as

a fair alternative to increased fees. Not only this, but students felt betrayed when leaked information revealed that Porter has secretly proposed an £800m cut to maintenance grants in order to avoid the drastic increase in fees. Last year, Mr. Porter said: “Families who aspire for their children to go to university are not interested in flip-flopping, u-turns, coalition infighting or whether the latest idea is called a tax, loan or fee, they know full well it means debt.”

It came as a great disappointment to UK students that the NUS President had in fact proposed cutting maintenance grants. In defense of the revelation, Mr. Porter said: “ We were asked by Dr Cable to demonstrate how fees could be kept at current levels and on the basis of his request we produced modeling to show how that could be done.” But this excuse did not sit well with his attempts to portray the coalition government as executing an attack on the poorest members of society. Despite much criticism during his time in the presidency, Mr. Porter said he was pleased with what the NUS had “achieved”: “I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved and the very fact that I have largely set out to achieve what I set out to do was the reason why I am comfortable to say I got elected for a year and I am going to serve that year out and go out into

Porter is escorted to safety by police at a student protest after being targeted by activists.

the big bad world. I am proud that it was the NUS and students generally who were the first to challenge the government’s austerity measures, to ensure that tuition fees dominated political discourse for weeks, if not months.”

However, despite students and their demonstrations present in the minds’ of the British public, Mr. Porter will certainly not leave the minds’ of students on a positive note.

The President hopes the actions of students over the last year will lead to changes in policy-making in the future. He said: “I am clear that the Government will have to think

in a very different way in terms of how they have subsequent policy on university funding, in terms of how they treat young people generally. I am proud in that I set out to achieve some things and I know that I’ve done that. It’s healthy for me and for the NUS to head into a new landscape with a new president.”

Speaking of the next NUS leader Porter added: “I think they should have a clear vision of what they want to achieve. They need to be strong and resilient. They need to be able to have clear ideas about what they want to do. And they need to be determined.”

Lucy McDade

accessing midwives and their unique communication needs and we hope to teach the next generation of midwives how to communicate and provide better care to these women at such an important time in their lives.”

De Montfort is the first University to offer this training and it is being run with the help of a local charity, Action Deafness. Sign language is currently not taught to most midwifery students so if complications arise interpreters have to be called in. Dr Joanna Downes from Action Deafness is teaching students sign language and deaf awareness issues.

She said: “These workshops are not only about teaching BSL but they enlighten the student midwives on the psychological, emotional, social and communication issues facing deaf parents and hearing parents of newly diagnosed deaf babies. Many deaf parents face challenges and barriers accessing the same services that other people get and during times of

Business school for teenagers A new style of school allowing pupils to work with businesses is to be opened for 14-19 year olds in Coalville, Leicestershire.

During their time at the school, pupils will be given paid internships and jobs, alongside mentoring from experts in business.

DMU midwifery students first to learn sign language DMU midwifery students are one of the first in the country to learn sign language to help deaf women in labour.

The students based at the Charles Frears campus are being taught basic sign language skills in order to help deaf women during labour, so they can help tackle problems while waiting for an interpreter to arrive.

According to the Royal National Institute of Deaf People (RNID) there are an estimated 50,000 people who use British Sign Language (BSL) as their first or preferred language.

Bernadette Gregory, senior lecturer of Midwifery at DMU, said: “We decided to run these sessions to highlight the fact that midwives are personally and professionally accountable under the new Equality Act, which came into force in October 2010, to offer the best possible, non discriminatory care, to all women and their partners. The workshops have highlighted some of the problems faced by deaf parents

News in Brief

pregnancy and labour, it can be even more stressful for them.

“The aim of this is to make the pregnancy and labour experiences for both the deaf parents and NHS professionals more positive and effective.”

The introduction of sign language at DMU is hoping to prompt other lecturers around the country to follow suit in all medical courses including those training to become doctors, health visitors and nurses.

Becky Vanstone, a Midwifery student at DMU said: “I would definitely like to get involved in learning sign language, it’s an extra worthwhile skill to have.”

Bernadette is also hoping to get key fobs created with useful signs that can be produced for staff to keep with them and DMU midwifery students will learn BSL to help deaf women in labour resource books to be placed in clinical areas.

Only the third of its kind in England, and first in Leicestershire, Stephenson College is hoping to take 150 in September, growing to 300 within two years.

College director, Rachel Gordon said: "There will be small class sizes with no more than 20 in each and the chance to gain real-life experience through their projects as it's proven students retain knowledge deemed more relevant to their lives."

DMU students involved in shotgun gang Two students at DMU were part of a gang of men who threatened a car of three people at a KFC drive-through off Narborough Road.

Nigel Kromah and Joshua Ojo, both 21, deny possessing a firearm with intent to cause fear of violence.

On January 19 2010, the pair were involved in the incident where the gang surrounded Hazel Jackman's car and brandished a sawn-off shotgun in a case of mistaken identity. It is thought the men were looking for the person responsible for stabbing their friend the day before.

The witnesses called the police after leaving the area, and the shotgun was later recovered from the boot of a Ford Fiesta, with both Ojo's and Kromah's fingerprints found on other items in the car. The case continues.

Whale dies on beach in Kent Coastguards were alerted to a beached whale at Pegwell Bay in Kent early on Thursday 3 March.

Animal rescue experts were called and had to wait for low tide before they could examine the 45ft whale which later died.

A spokesman for the coastguard said the animal had attracted great public interest, but that people were being advised to stay away: "It could be dangerous due to bacteria and it will probably get quite smelly."

When asked how the whale ended up in Kent, environmental expert Dr Alisdair Bruce said: "It may have become disorientated through the noise of propellors and then found its way up here, and either died naturally or possibly been hit by a ship."

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4 | Tuesday 8 March 2011

News Leicester based Libyan student tells his view of the unrest Rachel Robinson Picture Editor

Pro-democracy protests have spread throughout the Middle East and North Africa since the beginning of the year. In Tunisia and Egypt they resulted in the overthrow of long standing despotic regimes.

In Libya however, the government’s violent reaction has led to what is now becoming an international humanitarian crisis.

A Libyan student studying in Leicester, wanting only to be named as ‘Homesick Patriot’ or ‘HP’ agreed to talk to The Demon about the escalating violence and state of the crisis.

The first and most obvious issue was to enquire about the safety of HP’s family and friends back home, “all my family members and friends are safe, in spite of my hometown being about 62 kilometres from the capital city Tripoli”.

On the night of 20 February the world heard and saw the lengths the Gaddafi regime was prepared to go to repress opposition, ordering fighter pilots to bomb protesting civilians.

This, together with a rambling televised address by the leader’s son, saw a surprisingly muted response by

the International community.

At that point over 100 people had died at the hands of the regime and hired mercenaries. HP was perplexed at the weak nature of the initial international response to Libyan government violence, “It seems to me that the Arabic and the western regimes did not react at the beginning of the crisis, because they were anxious about their interests, as you know, Libya has so much oil.”

It is difficult to refute this opinion, the British media has found little to congratulate our government on in its opening statements and manoeuvres.

There also seemed to be a naive assumption that Libya would follow the same pattern as Tunisia and Egypt before. However the situation is obviously very delicate, complicated and currently in flux. Libya has a history of its population fighting for freedoms, from the uprising against the Italian fascists in the early 20th century to the present. According to HP, opposition had been brewing in Libya for some time.

Corruption in the administrative sections of government ministries had “led to the poor services and

standards of living”; and on the same point, “some Libyan governors forget to solve fundamental problems rapidly, wisely and effectively”. These issues mixed with a lack of freedom of speech and political choices have now come to a head.

In the past however, speaking out has been done so at severe risk; political dissenters have ended up in Libya’s notorious Abu Salim Prison where in 1996 over 1200 prisoners were killed after rioting. However HP also states that in recent years the Libyan regime has made some concession to vocal dissenters offering a “comprehensive amnesty for political prisoners and consultations with the opposition abroad”.

Libyan dissidents and students living and studying abroad have tried to influence change within Libya but with extremely limited success. HP himself attended a protest outside the Libyan embassy in London two weeks ago attended by both pro and anti Gaddafi supporters. HP’s message was clear, change can happen “without bloodshed and strife”. Still in the throws of turmoil the future of Libya is currently unknown, Gaddafi refuses

Libyan protesters are fighting for the end of the Gaddafi regime

to accept there have been any protests against him and sees no reason to give up his position. However, hope for a positive future in Libya was obvious in HP’s responses.

Asked what he will do after he finishes his studies HP replied: “I will return to my beloved country to participate in its development”, and of the future? “I patriotically hope that my country will be peaceful,

secure and permanently stable, also that my people will live in liberty, happiness and dignity”.

It seemed a rather futile question in the circumstances but I had to ask ‘Homesick Patriot’ if there was anything we at DMU could do to help and he requested that “DMU students, staff and professors support, help, and show sympathy to Libyan students in these severe circumstances”.

Government cuts will hit post- NUS criticises Government plans to reduce number of graduates hardest international students Hannah Elkes

Post-graduate students receive even less support than undergraduates, according to the National Union of Students.

As it stands, there is no government support for postgraduates and for most people fees have to be paid upfront.

Last October, the NUS report, ‘Broke and Broken’ found that nearly 67% of postgraduate respondents were entirely self funded. Conservative MP David Willets announced an investigation into support for postgraduate students on the 25 February at his speech to the Universities UK Spring Conference.

It recognised concerns from students and academics that the government’s unpopular rise in undergraduate fees will mean postgraduate fees will be pushed even higher. Taught postgraduate fees are set to increase as universities seek to align one year taught courses, such as Masters, with the annual undergraduate fee of up to £9000 a year.

NUS Post-graduate representative and current masters student, Paul Tobin, said: “We welcome David

Willets recognition that the current ‘One step beyond: Making the Most settlement on access to post-graduate of Postgraduate education’, referred education is inadequate. issues of support for postgraduate "The majority of taught postgraduate study to Lord Browne’s review of students are self funded, and our student finance. The controversial evidence shows that many struggle review was criticised by the NUS, as it financially.” This comes at a time decided against changing the current when increasing numbers of those system at postgraduate level. getting an undergraduate degree The NUS report that followed the are having trouble getting a job and review and justified their criticisms, look towards postgraduate study to found that 70% of respondents said improve their skills. that access to finance was a major This will mean that this consideration in deciding whether to opportunity is further restricted to undertake postgraduate study. those who can afford to pay and fund themselves.

Paul Tobin said: “Students at all levels are being asked to take too much of the burden of government cuts and David Willets should intervene to ensure that fee for postgraduate students are not allowed to escalate in response to the rise in undergraduate fees.”

NUS says the government should stop The original report of post-graduate fees from escalating the Postgraduate Review,

Stuart Blythe

NUS have criticised the government for a plan to reduce the number of student visas given to those from outside the EU. This would mean that universities would receive less funding and cultural exchange reducing the opportunities for international students to study in the UK. The information came from a study from the Higher Education Institute, which also specified that they would Universities Minister, David be reducing the number of foreign Willetts students studying below degree level. statistics "are not fit for purpose".

Aaron Porter, NUS President, said: These come from the International "This is surely the final nail in the Passenger Survey, which questions a coffin for a knee-jerk policy that will small percentage of people leaving deny universities billions of pounds of much needed income at a time the UK. when they are also removing the However universities Minister, majority of the teaching grant.

David Willetts, has previously stated that he would work with the "International students are a vital Home Office Minister, Damian part of the campus community Green, to help this matter. To ensure bringing huge amounts of money that any controls on student visas and passing on cultural knowledge and links that better equip graduates "don't inadvertently make the UK less attractive to genuine students to work in a globalised economy."

The report also suggests that the wanting to come and study".

Tuesday 8 March 2011 | 5

Talk

Looking at next year... already!

Doesn’t time go fast? I can’t believe that our annual elections are over for another year already! It seems like just yesterday I was out on Mill Lane trying to get people to take a leaflet from me whilst stood there freezing in a t-shirt with my face and (rather embarrassing) slogan on it.

Our front page reveals the winners and the new DSU executive team for the next academic year. Last week saw all of the candidates around campus asking the students of DMU to vote, and talking to people about their manifestos. It was an extremely busy week on campus, and just seemed to go so quickly.

On the Friday when the results were announced I realised that I only had a few months left working at DSU, and worse still, just two issues left of editing The Demon!

This year has flown by, and so much has happened in the student world it makes my brain ache just thinking about it. With student elections taking place across the country at the moment, it’s a reminder that this academic year is quickly drawing to a close, and coursework season is well and truly upon us.

That’s why the lovely ladies at the DSU Welfare and Education Centre have given you these top tips to help you if disaster strikes!

Until next time, take care and enjoy Varsity!

Amy Seabrook Editor-in-Chief Contact me at: aseabrook@dmu.ac.uk Follow me on Twitter at Twitter.com/amyseabrook

What To Do If Disaster Strikes!

As we approach the crucial final period of the academic year, it’s vital to know what to do if your academic work is seriously affected by unexpected problems.

Do not despair! There are actions that you can take to ensure that if something does interrupt your studies, it does not ruin your chances of getting your degree. The Students’ Union’s Welfare and Education Centre show you how…

Outlined below are the main options available if you are unfortunate enough to run into difficulties and need extra time to complete your work or are not ready to take your exams.

Extensions If you feel unable to meet one or more of your coursework deadlines, your module leader can approve a 14-day extension. This is at their discretion. It is always a good idea to get official documents from a professional if you can so that you can prove your case to the module leader.

Your request must reach the module leader before your deadline date. If they agree they will give you a new deadline.

Extenuating Circumstances If you feel a 14-day extension is not long enough, you can ask the university to allow you to take the assessment later (deferring the work / exam). You can ask for a deferral on any assessment or exam if you think that your personal circumstances would seriously affect your mark if you handed the work in or take the exam. There is also the possibility for a deferral if extenuating circumstances occur during the examination period and you feel they have affected your exam performance.

The Demon – Credits Editor-in-chief – Amy Seabrook aseabrook@dmu.ac.uk Sub-Editor – Andrew Dunn p08253225@myemail.dmu.ac.uk Creative Editors – Kerry Stallon & Stanley Ashton sjaphotos@aol.com Picture Editor – Rachel Robinson p09256753@myemail.dmu.ac.uk News Editors– Victoria Coffey and Naomi Marcus naomimarcus@hotmail.com Politics Editors – Anna Rog & Brett Leppard anna.rog@hotmail.co.uk Features Editor – Andy Brady andy@andrewbrady.net Arts Editor – Anoushka Wroblewski noushwro@gmail.com Travel Editor – James King p09252430@myemail.dmu.ac.uk Fashion Editor – Holly Smith Hollyvsmith@me.com Lifestyle Editor– Emma Baylis p08273001@myemail.dmu.ac.uk Music Editor – Katie Bowley ktbowley@hotmail.co.uk Film Editor – Samantha Nicholson No1_dingbat@hotmail.com Sports Editor – Ian Cockerill Iancockerill89@hotmail.co.uk Listings Editor – Nico Lehmann p09252978@myemail.dmu.ac.uk Proof Editor – Leonie Sturman Contributors: Thank you to everyone who has contributed writing and photographs for this issue.

If you are interested in contributing to The Demon or joining a section team, please email aseabrook@ dmu.ac.uk or pop in to the Students’ Union.

The Demon is a Demon Media publication for De Montfort Students’ Union.

Contact Us

Examples of extenuating circumstances are: • Serious illness or death of a member of the immediate family • A serious debilitating illness.

• A serious accident or acute illness occurring immediately before or at the time of the assessments concerned This doesn’t include paid employment, not getting up on time for an exam, “minor” illness (such as a cold) or holiday/travel arrangements that could have been avoided.

Complete either an exam or coursework “Extenuating Circumstances” form (depending on what you want to defer) and put down each individual assessment you wish to defer along with a statement explaining your circumstances.

To give yourself the best possible chance to have your request for deferral granted, it is essential to provide strong supporting evidence such as hospital reports, death certificates etc with the form. Your personal testimony is also very important – make it relevant & detailed. The panel deciding whether to grant the deferral will only have this information to base their judgement on.

The Welfare & Education Centre is part of the Submit your application to - your Student Advice Centre if you want to defer coursework and faculty based tests.

Students’ Union, based on the 1st floor of the For examinations the form must be handed in to the Academic Registry. All requests for postgraduate courses are Campus Centre. submitted to the Student Advice Centre.

Opening hours You must submit your extenuating circumstances application by the deadline set by Registry for exams and your faculty Monday to Wednesday: 9.30am–3.45pm for coursework. If you do not, your application will not be considered and will automatically be refused because it is late.

Thursday: 9.30am–6.30pm (Term time only) or Remember just because you have requested deferral, it doesn’t mean that your request will be accepted. A deferral is Thursday: 9.30am–3.45pm (Vacation) not granted automatically. If deferral is denied, you will be marked as having failed the coursework/exams in question Friday: 1–3.45pm if you don’t attempt the assessment.

Advice from our Centre is available all through the year on any problems you encounter with your course. We can Call in or telephone (0116) 257 6307 advise on extensions, check your extenuating circumstances form and discuss what kinds of supporting evidence you need to make a strong case. Get in touch if you need any help or advice.

Please send all correspondence to: Amy Seabrook, Editor-in-Chief, The Demon, De Montfort Students’ Union, First Floor, The Campus Centre, Mill Lane, Leicester LE2 7DR. E-mail: aseabrook@dmu.ac.uk Tel: 0116 255 5576 For all advertising enquiries, contact Leanne Bingle of BAM Student Marketing at ljb@bamuk.com

Disclaimer All views and opinions printed in this publication are those of the writers and not of De Montfort University Students’ Union.

We welcome articles from all students at all times. All articles will be considered. Any articles are subject to editing and we do not guarantee that submitted articles will be printed.

The Demon is printed through Trinity Mirror.

For further information, visit the web site at http://www.trinitymirror.com/ The Demon is printed on FSC Managed 100% Recycled 52gsm standard recycled newsprint, produced in the UK.

6 | Tuesday 8 March 2011

Politics

DSU Elections: A democratic deficit The Demon’s Politics Editor looks at just how democratic the DSU elections were Brett Leppard Politics Editor

Democracy can be great when there are proper checks and balances in place, regarding how it operates. The correct conditions need to be in place to allow democracy to function. We now know the results of the DSU elections (see info box below), the majority were as predictable as a train being late or as British weather being rather dull.

There were, however, two surprises (to me anyway): Ismail Khatib and Zubair Sidat. The reason for my surprise is that the two candidates in question did not turn up to the Candidates’ Question

Time (CQT), but still managed to win with a sizeable majority.

It must be noted that the CQT is not compulsory, but rather an opportunity for candidates to accept questions from the audience.

Imagine if David Cameron did not turn up to the televised Leaders’ Debates and went on to win the election.

Obviously, the scale and importance of the DSU elections are stupendously less than the example would imply, however, the point remains that the official forum set up to question the candidates standing for the DSU is important within the context of the Student Union.

Plagued is my mind with the question: why didn’t our two new

DSU Election — Facts & figures

Turnout: 2064 votes cast, roughly 10% of the student population (>20,000) Number of candidates that did not turn up to CQT: 3 Number of positions with only one candidate: 9 Funding from DMU given to the DSU: roughly £700,000 per year.

Affiliation fees piad to the NUS by the DSU: roughly £40,000 per year.

Tuition fees paid per student (2010/2011): £3,290

Vice-Presidents (when they were candidates) turn up? The only other candidate that did not turn up was Amer Reza, candidate for DSU President. That can be counted as a minor problem since he was not

“Imagine if David Cameron did not turn up to the televised Leaders’ Debates and went on to win the election” elected. I can only hope that our new VPs will prove their worth and do their best for the DSU and the students here at DMU. Upon hearing the results of the election I was rather surprised, I had assumed that those not at the CQT were not committed enough to attend and therefore probably wouldn’t be committed enough to canvass, and so on and so forth.

I pondered this thought for a while and realised that the DSU elections do not fall outside the normal boundaries of elections.

Elections are about winning the most votes; votes are linked to support and popularity.

When problems like those already described are encountered, it is important to consider these alternative rules: The CQT should be a compulsory event for candidates to attend. If you are not willing to turn up it demonstrates a lack of commitment.

No society events should be allowed to take place during the election period. These elections must be fair and separate from society popularity.

Voting should be compulsory.

10% of the student population have elected people to spend money and formulate policies on our behalf, not voting is effectively throwing that money away. Compulsory voting would increase participation and interest, as well as the possible number of candidates.

As students, we do not only pay to be taught here at DMU, we pay for the services at the DSU. DSU are here to aid us through

DSU Election — Our new team

DSU President: Liam Davis Deputy President Education: Azhar Maqsood Vice President Media and Communications: David Winter Vice President Student Activities: Ismail Khatib Vice President Welfare: Zubair Sidat

university, if we do not take an active interest in student democracy then we are effectively handing them the credit card to spend at their will.

If you have any thoughts on this article please write in or comment.

E-mail your thoughts to Politics Editor Brett — brett_leppard@hotmail. co.uk

‘Power tends to corrupt; absolute power corrupts absolutely’ Gaddafi, Galliano, Cole — A tyrant, an anti-semite and a fool with an air rifle Sean Moore

When John Dalberg-Acton uttered these lines in the 1800s, he didn’t intend it to be used to describe the lives of a mad, hat-wearing, Libyan dictator or an anti-Semite fashion designer who looks like the potentially alcoholic fourth member of the three musketeers. Yet here I am using this famous line, because I think Acton’s words are growing increasingly more relevant day by day.

Yet, I have to admit I didn’t know who this Sir. Acton was before I started writing this article, or that he was the original inventor of this timeless saying. However, after a bit of research I’ve realised he’s a bloke worth looking into.

The Catholic historian, politician and writer didn’t seem to have much approval of people in important places believing they were better than everyone else or morally immune

from society and the eyes of the law.

In a letter to Bishop Creighton Acton (where the saying was originally used), he attacks the idea that high figures such as the Pope or King should be allowed to do anything they please, especially when it infringes upon the rights of others or results in their attack or murder. This was a big statement at the time, defying the might of the Catholic Church and the monarchy in one sentence took cojones.

Now it is time to present Acton’s idea in a present day sense. Referring back to the first paragraph, where I described this week’s culprits of self-deification John Galliano and Colonel Gaddafi. Although in no way am I insinuating that the two ageing eccentrics are similar, I do believe that the two personas do bring up underlying problems within our international society.

Firstly, the most astonishing thing about Gaddafi is his utter, delusional

belief that "his people" still love him and that he is still invaluable to Libya’s interests as a nation. In an interview with the BBC he said "how can I step down when I have nothing to step down from, I’m not a monarch or a king", suggesting that, although he had the power to legislate policy and control the population for 42 years, he can’t just leave because he has no official role.

It seems that the years he has lived as a tyrannical ruler has eroded his common decency and realisation of when is the right time to give up. It seems that, like many dictators before him, only the icy claws of death will stop him from spouting out his entertaining silly comments, and give Libya the democracy it deserves and craves.

On the other side of the spectrum, the fashion world has been shook by John Galliano’s anti-Semitic outbursts at a particular Parisian bar. Although his attacks on Judaism and his love

of Hitler are remarks not unfamiliar (probably not as ideologically or racially driven) with the public houses of Britain five minutes after closing time, they are disturbing. What else is to be expected from a person so caught up in their own sanctified, celebrity bubble who dresses like a transvestite pimp?

It is good to see that Dior has a ‘zero tolerance’ policy, even if the slapped wrist concerned belongs to a celebrity that makes life more colourful and aesthetically pleasing.

Yet this celebrity hyped, immunity culture of the elite doesn’t show any signs of stopping, it was only last week that the seemingly unflustered Ashley Cole fired a .22 Calibre air rifle at one of his fans, a Loughborough intern student. In the cases of Galliano and Cole, it is somewhat the media’s fault in terms of the exaggeration and celebrity heresy contained within the reporting of the incidents. Cole is after all, a multi-

millionaire who’s probably frustrated with his constant time in the spotlight for being unfaithful and getting dumped by the ever-present and everattention seeking Cheryl Cole.

Maybe his gun wielding tendencies would cease if the tabloids gave him a break and concentrate on reporting his football. John Galliano just seems to be tired from the pressures of his industry and brain washed from it’s sometimes supremacist culture, and possibly too much absinthe. Gaddafi, however, has no excuse for still being where he is, yet his despotic nature can be attributed to the AngloAmerican market interests that put him there.

In a perfect world no man or woman should be too high and mighty for a good telling off, or be too arrogant to be put in their place.

Something we all need time after time to keep us sane, and stop us from wearing impractical hats or growing comical facial hair.

Gareth Pugh Fashion looks at his catwalk creations and asks whether they're genius, or simply pointless?

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2 | Tuesday 8 March 2011

Film

Batman through the ages the new, it is easy to pick and choose about which are better. One Batman, The Caped Crusader, The thing to be said about Dark Knight, one of the greatest the new films that fictional characters ever created, seems to disappoint first hit the big screen in 1989 but a classic fans is that lot has changed since then.The face Gotham City is a lot behind the mask has changed over less, for lack of a better the years, since the old Adam West word, gothic. The old T.V series, four different actors have films captured the taken on the role. darkness of Batman, Michael Keaton as the first, was probably because undoubtedly fantastic, despite fears at Tim Burton directed the time that he wasn't dark enough the first two and for the part. He returned for a second produced the third. film unlike two of his successors, but his The new films are record has been matched-and is soon to much more human in be beaten-by Christian Bale. Val Kilmer comparison, focusing also delivered a stunning performance on Bruce Wayne and when he played Batman in Batman his story and are also Forever, fitting the role both physically very moral. This is not and stylistically. Dare I even mention necessarily a bad thing number three? George Clooney...as though as Batman is a batman? What were they thinking?! superhero after all, no Batman and Robin was generally a matter how The latest teaser poster for The Dark Knight Rises (2011) dark. Another thing to be said about the old The Riddler and Penguin? They're films is that they focused a lot classic characters that everyone loves more on the villains, and had and often think of when they talk a wider variety of them as did about Batman. the Adam West T.V series.

At the end of the day, both the The new film, The Dark old and the new films have their Knight Rises is apparently merits and perhaps should not be set to feature Catwoman compared too strongly as it can and Bane, who are detract from the positive aspects of great but, since it's the each. The upcoming third installment last installment, a little of the new series marks the end of disappointing. Where is another era, and a sad time for all Harley Quinn? Seriously?

Batman fans. Batman has so far And if the classic villains are proved to be a timeless classic though, going to be repeated-The so no doubt the franchise will be Joker and Catwoman for back. Let's hope it will be sooner Batman & Robin (1997): Alicia Silvertone (Batgirl), George Clooney (Batman) and Chris O'Donnell (Robin) example-why not include rather than later!

Tia Pennant-Lewis

Now the usual intent of this column is for me to recommend films that you should go out and see for its great quality. Funny Games is a film I just cannot suggest anyone to see, for it is the most horrible thing I have ever witnessed on screen.

Not because it is gory, in fact there is barely any onscreen violence at all, but the concept and execution will haunt me for the rest of my life.

Written and directed by mentalist auteur Michael Haneke as an examination about violence in cinema, there are in fact two versions: the original Austrian one and the US one. Oddly they are the exact same film, shot for shot (YouTube it), Haneke wanted his terrifying creation to upset as many people as possible.

To sum it up in a sentence, it is about two young men tormenting a family for an hour and a half.

Now while everything I’ve said may seem very negative, here’s the rub: Funny Games is a perfect horror film.

It sets out to examine the way people are attracted to heavy violence in cinema against cardboard cut-out characters,(see the Saw and Hostel films etc). But then it shows us that random realistic acts against seemingly nice (albeit cut-out) characters are difficult to stomach. Everything builds up slow, never reaching a climax, just more discomfort and woe.

It was this film that made me think about those ideals, and while horrible, it is truly unforgettable in its horror, something no scary film has ever accomplished as well.

pretty awful film though to be honest.

Perhaps it's because Tim Burton had abandoned the project or perhaps it was because all the best villains had already been taken, either way, in comparison to the others, it is a complete let down.

The creators obviously knew this as they quickly cut the franchise short. But hallelujah, eight years later along came the genius that is Christopher Nolan to reinvent the film series. Thank god he did because Batman Begins and The Dark Knight are two of the best films of the decade. Christian Bale fits into both roles perfectly, that of Batman and Bruce Wayne, a feat that no one has previously managed. For all those people out there who only think The Dark Knight got so much credit was because Heath Ledger died before it's release, that's complete rubbish. The film is truly a masterpiece! Look at the cast, the acting, the music, the visual effects, the plot line- it is all stunning!

When comparing the old films to

Inception & King's Speech Oscar winners

David Seidler, winner of Best Original Screenplay for his work on The King's Speech (2010)

Inception and The King's Speech were big winners at the Oscars this year, with both films walking away with four gongs each.

The overall big winner for the night was The King's Speech, which walked away with the highest accolade for Best Picture 2011. Actor Colin Firth was honoured for his role in the film, alongside director Tom Hooper.

Writer David Seidler, became the oldest man to ever win the Best Original Screenplay award. Helena Bonham Carter (Duchess of York, The King's Speech) was beaten to the award for Best Actress by The

Fighter star Melissa Leo. Inception was the second lucky winner of the night, walking away with awards for Sound Editing, Sound Mixing, Visual Effects and Cinematography.

Black Swan walked away with less awards than expected, after being an outside favourite to scupper The King's Speech to Best picture 2011. Natalie Portman however walked away with an award for Best Actress, for her role as a ballerina in the film.

After a string of awards at The Golden Globes, The Social Network walked away with a respectable three awards for Aaron Sorkin's work (Best Adapted Screenplay) and Film Editing. It beat The King's Speech to Best Original Score, with Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross' soundtrack.

Check out http://www.bbc.co.uk/ for a full list of this years Oscar wins.

In Issue 77 Demon predicted the Oscars. Were we right?

We correctly guessed seven of the fourteen awards we predicted.

Best Director - King's Speech Best Actor - Colin Firth Best Actress - Natalie Portman Supporting Actor - Christian Bale Best Animated Film - Toy Story 3 Best Costume Design - Alice in Wonderland Best Makeup - Wolfman Here were our incorrect predictions: Best Picture - Black Swan Supporting Actress - Helena Bonham Carter Original Screenplay - Inception Adapted Screenplay - Inception Best Original Score - Inception Best Visual Effect - Alice In Wonderland

Tuesday 8 March 2011 | 3

Film

Coming soon to cinemas Rango Johnny Depp's latest comedy hits our screens a he plays Rango, the chameleon with a wild imagination.

He thinks himself a hero, but when he finds himself removed from his own happy American southwest, and plonked in a town called Dirt in the Old West where the tumbleweed blows, he finds out he's not all that he believes he is. He establishes himself as a lawman, strolling the streets like a sheriff to be the good guy. Good guy's don't sit well with the people of Dirt, and neither do outsiders. What can Rango do to win their respect, and possibly keep himself alive?

Starring alongside Depp is Isla

Hall Pass

On the surface, Hall Pass seems like just another Owen Wilson comedy, with a sidekick in th eform of Jason Sudeikis.

It is also the latest release from the Farrelly brothers Bobby & Peter.

Critics have so far panned the latest comedy calling it neither funny nor alluring.

The story goes something like this: Rick and Fred are given a week off from their marital responsibilities by their wives. This is one week where they can do what they want without any questions. At first the boys think it's a dream, running off to a beach to meet girls, drink a lot and enjoy

Fisher (Beans the desert iguana), James Ward Byrkity (Waffles a horned toad), Abigail Breslin (Priscilla a mouse), Alfred Molina (Roadkill a nine banded armadilla) and a host of other celebrities including Ray Winstone (aka Beowulf 1997). This film is set to be a five star comedy with plenty of exciting moments. To top it off Pirates of the Caribbean director Gore Berbinski completes the team, making this a sure fire winner with the March movie going crowd.

Expected Rating: their week of freedom from marriage. But in the end as is always true with this type of comedy, their expectations don't quite match up to the reality.

Despite the bad press it has faired well in the US opening with to the tune of $4.6 million, ahead of Gnomeo and Juliet.

Still, can this this lewd, rude and obnoxious boys comedy stand up when it hits this side of the ocean, or will it crash and burn like some other recent comedies.

Expected Rating:

Sucker Punch This American action-fantasy is the latest to hit the UK, following the success of action packed female led dramas.

It stars Vanessa Hudgens (High School Musical), Jamie Chung (I Now Pronounce You Chuck and Larry) Jena Malone (Donnie Darko), Abbie Cornish (Somersalt) and Emily Browning (Violet Baudelaire A Series of Unfortunate Events). Overall it's a wide variety of females from all walks of life.

According to writer Zack Snyder, the story is essentially Alice in Wonderland with machine guns, and it follows the story of a young girl in the 1950's, placed in an instiution after her mothers death. She dreams of an escape into an ultimate darker reality, where she is free to go where her mind may take her.

Locked away against her will, Babydoll, the lead female character (Emily Browning) refuses to let her will die. Determined to fight the institute she is captive of, she encourages four other girls to engage in fantastical warfar with everything from samurais to serpents to escape. Teaming up with Blondie (Vanessa Hudgens), Amber (Jamie Chung), Sweet Pea (Abbie Cornish) and Rocket (Jena Malone), the girls fight for their freedom. With Hudgens escaping the HSM trait, this should be enjoyable.

Expected Rating:

Want to write for Demon Film?

Send your content to Film Editor Sam Nicholson at no1_dingbat@hotmail.com

Out Now at Cinemas

Source Code

Paul (15)

Jake Gyllenhaal returns in this mind bending psychological thriller, Source Code.

Teaming up with visionary director Duncas Jones, Gyllenhaal plays a bewildered Captain Colter Stevens, a man trapped in the body of another man who for some reason is on a train with a women named Christina (Michelle Monaghan). This is where it gets confusing. She things she is a teacher called Sean. Everything is thrown up in the air when the train is destroyed by an explosion and Stevens is taken to a hi-tech laboratory where he is confronted by a military officer (Vera Farmiga) and a scientist (Jeffrey Wright).

Ready for another twist? He is actually a man on a mission to find the terrorist who bombed the train arlier, and a part of a giant government experiment called the Source Code which enables him to cross over into the last eight minutes of someones life.

It all sounds a little bit Quantum Leap mixed with Shutter Island, which could either turn out horrendous, or be another piece of genius.

Starring: Simon Pegg, Nick Frost, Seth Rogan and Jason Bateman

Drive Angry 3D (18)

Starring: Nicolas Cage, Amber Heard and William Fichtner

I Am Number Four (12A)

Starring: Alex Pettyfer, Timothy Olyphant and Dianna Agron

The Rite (15)

Starring: Anthony Hopkins, Colin O'Donoghue and Alice Braga

Gnomeo and Juliet (U)

Starring: James McAvoy, Emily Blunt and Maggie Smith

As If I'm Not There (TBC) Starring: Natasha Petrovic

The Adjustment Bureu (12A) Starring: Matt Damon, Emily Blunt and Terence Stamp

Unknown (12A)

Starring: Liam Neeson, Diana Kruger and January Jones

Iron Clad (15)

Starring: James Purefoy, Paul Giamatti and Brian Cox

The Company Men (TBC)

Starring: Ben Affleck, Tommy Lee Jones and Kevin Costner

Big Mommas House 3 (PG) Starring: Martin Lawrence, Faizon Love and Emily Rios

Justin Bieber Never Say Never Starring: Justin Bieber

Editors Choice: Scream 4 is my

highly anticipated film of this year, just because I hate sequels to already completed sagas. This one might actually change my mind as the premise looks good and the amazing poster convinces me this will revitalise the slasher genre like the originals did.

West is West (15)

Starring: Jimi Mistry, Om Puri, Linda Bassett and Emil Marwa Useless film trivia: How many films have Johnny Depp & Tim Burton collaborated on Answer: 8

4 | Tuesday 8 March 2011

Film

The Demon meets...

Film Editor Sam Nicholson looks at the life and career of 14 times award winner Natalie Portman the tender age of ten, alongside future popstar Britney Spears.

In 1994, Portman auditioned for the role of a child who befriends a hitman in the Luc Besson film, The Professional. After getting the part at age 13, Portman made her film debut and adopted her grandmothers maiden name, to protect her families privacy.

Following this, while still in school, she had roles in Heat (1995), Everyone Says I Love You (1996), Mars Attacks!

(1996) and Beautiful Girls (1996). She also played the leading role of Anne Frank in The Diary of Anne Frank on Broadway in 1997.

Her big break came however, with Anywhere But Here (1999). Initially she turned down the role, after she learnt it involved a sex scene, however Wayne Wang and actress Susan Sarandon demaded a rewrite of the script to accomadate Portman. She recieved a Golden Glove nomination for her role in the film as Ann August. She was hailed as an extraordinary actress by critics and described as not 'plucky' like other actresses her age.

At the same time, Portman was cast at Padme Amidala in the Star Wars prequel trilogy. The first part opened in 1999, with Portman missing the premiere of the film to study for her high school exams.

She graduated high school in 1999 from Syosset High School, Long Natalie Portman having her hair shaved in V For Vendetta (2006) Island, and went on to get This year, Natalie Portman has waltzed home with nine awards, all for her most recent film, The Black Swan, and she is still yet to win more, after her Oscar win for Best Actress on February 27.

Born 9 June 1981 in Jerusalem, Isareal to a fertility specialist Avner Hershlag and an American homemaker Shelley Hershlag, Portman moved to Washington D.C when she was three, so her father could begin to recieve medical training. She was educated at Charles E. Smith Jewish Day School, where she learn to speak both Hebrew and English before she attended a Jewish elementary school, Solomon Schechter Day School of Glen Cove New York.

She begun dancing at age four, and spent most of her youth in theatre camp, auditioning for Broadway shows such as Ruthless. She was given a role in Ruthless as an understudy at

into Harvard University. She persued a bachelor's degree in Psychology, stating that she wouldn't act in any film but Star Wars, in order to concentrate on studying, claiming her education was more important than her film career.

During her June to September 2000 break, Portman filmed Star Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones, the second part of the Star Wars prequel trilogy. She also made a cameo appearance in 2001's comedy Zoolander, and had a small role in Cold Mountain alongside Jude Law and Nicole Kidman.

In 2005, Portman appeared in the final Star Wars prequel, Revenge of the Sith. It was the highest grossing domestic film of the year, and was voted Favourite Motion Picture at the People's Choice Awards.

In early 2006, Portman took on what could be described as one of her most daring roles, that of Evey Hammond in V For Vendetta (2006).

She famously shaved her head for the role, and attended lessons with a voice coach, to speak in an English accent.

Portman says that the reason she wanted to do this film was because of her own history: "being from Israel was the reason I wanted to do this because terrorism and violence are such a daily part of my conversations when I was little." She won a Saturn Award for Best Actress, and was nominated for a Teens Choice Award for Choice Movie Actress: Drama/ Action Adventure.

After V For Vendetta's release, Portman began filming Mr. Magorium's Wonder Emporium, and The Other Boleyn Girl, a historical

drama in which Portman plays Henry VII's second wife Anne Boleyn, alongside Eric Bana and Scarlett Johansson.

Because of these roles she was named one of the hottest women of film and TV by Blender Magazine Natalie Portman as Queen Amidala in Star Wars: The in 2006.

Phantom Menace (1999) Portman continued working, her first awards since 2007's V For starring in Wong Kar-wai's road Vendetta. movie My Blueberry Night, as gambler She was due to appear in Pride Leslie who flirts with other gamblers Prejudice and Zombie's later this year, across the table. She also starred in the the adaptation of a novel based on 18th season of The Simpson's as Bart's Pride and Prejudice, however she girlfriend Darcy. recently dropped out of filming due In 2008, aged 27, Portman made to scheduling conflicts. She continues her directorial debut at the Venice as producer.

Film Festival. Eve, a short movie In her personal life, Portman is a about a young woman dragged along vegan, and an advocate for animal on her grandmother's romantic rights. She became a vegan in date was screen out of competition.

2009, after being a vegetarian since Portman said she had a fascination childhood. She campaigns against with the older generations and child poverty, and takes part in many based the character on her own foreign aid projects.

Grandmother.

In 2010, she worked with young Portman's latest success has people in poverty, and she earnt a been with The Black Swan, Darren nomination for VH1's Do Something Aronosky's interpretation of the story Awards because of her dedication and of a veteran ballerina, desperate to good work. appear in Swan Lake. Portman stated Portman has been with partner that she lost 20lbs during filming due Benjamin Millepied since 2010. They to the eight hours of dancing training met whilst working on The Black she did every day for six months. For Swan in late 2009. The couple have this role so far she has won six awards been engaged since December 7 2010, including a Golden Globe and a and are expecting a child together BAFTA for Best Actress. These were later this year.

Demon recommends: We look at our favourite stars terrifying and at times downright cute. That is what makes him such a good actor, his ability to adopt any role and completely pour his soul into it, making it convincing everytime. Whether a pirate, a mad man or The Demon Barber of Fleet Street, the audience is left awe struck with every outstanding performance.

Despite the risk of sounding obvious, his best role is undoubtedly Jack Sparrow in Pirates of the Caribbean. From that unforgettable entrance in the first film that Johnny Depp as Ichabod Crane in Sleepy Hollow words cannot do justice,

Tia Pennant-Lewis Reccomends: Johnny Depp is a name everyone knows, or should know - and for good reason. He can be hilarious,

his hilarious and truly stunning performance has continued to wow audiences. Though Depp is often associated with Tim Burton's films in which he is consistently brilliant, it seems this is the role he was born to play.

Depp has been acting from from the age of 21 and has appeared in countless films since. He has starred recently in The Tourist with Angelina Jolie and has a number of upcoming releases including animation film Rango and the long awaited fourth Pirates of the Caribbean movie.

Thankfully, it seems he is set to be on our screens to entertain us for many more years to come.

Knees, The King of Cool and Kick-

Ass. If you're not a fan, you must be crazy! He has made an outstanding contribution to cinema and will hopefully continue to do so for years to come.

Samantha Nicholson, Film Editor Reccomends: Jack Nicholson has had an amazing career, spanning seven decades and including films such as Easy Rider, Chinatown, The Shining, Batman and About Schmidt. He is one of only two actors to have been nominated for an Academy Award in every decade from the 1960's-2000's (the other being Michael Caine.) After 65 films, Nicholson's glory speaks for itself. He is renowned for portraying psychotic, even insane characters such as The

Joker & Jack Torrance in The Shining.

After a few quiet years, it will be good to see him return to our screens in 2011 for Americana, an Edgar Johnson film. Really, his crowning glory however, will always be The Shining, and that moment he stands and cries "Here's Johnny!"

Jack Nicholson as The Devil in The Witches of Eastwick (1987)

Tuesday 8 March 2011 | 5

Music

Kerrang Relentless Tour Gemma Harling gives us an insight in to the Kerrang Relentless Tour 2011 ‘The Young & The Hopeless’ gathered in Birmingham for the Kerrang Relentless Tour 2011 to see the amazing line-up this year’s tour had to offer.

‘Girls and Boys’ crammed into the O2 Academy in Birmingham on the 17 February for the annual Kerrang Relentless tour featuring pop punk titans Good Charlotte, alongside Four Year Strong, Framing Hanley and The Wonder Years.

First to take to the stage was the late addition to the line-up, The Wonder Years. The pop punk band from Philadelphia did not feature on the tickets for the gig; however this did not affect their attitude or performance. As soon as the house lights went down the band were ready to wake the restless audience, pumping tracks that, although unknown to most of the crowd, caused movement on the O2 Academy floor. The band ended their set grateful for the audience’s response to them and generally enthusiastic to have performed as part of an amazing line-up.

Next the Nashville rock band, Framing Hanley, strolled onto the stage to the accompaniment of

high pitched screeching. Tattooed frontman Kenneth Nixon has become a popular favourite with the female fans, most of his vocals being inaudible above screams; those that could be heard were powerful. The majority of the set seemed rushed due to the long line-up, the band pushed song after song, making the most of the short time they had. Despite the hastiness the band performed songs from both of their albums creating maximum reception from mainly the female audience, yet the male proportion also seemed to enjoy the set. The instrumentals of the band were at their peak, intense guitar playing, particularly the chilling riff at the beginning of the Lil Wayne cover ‘Lollipop’, accompanied by strong drumming for their entire performance.

Third band of the night was Four Year Strong, yet another American band who took control of the Birmingham audience. The band turned out to be extremely popular with the crowd sparking surges of energy, causing the heavier rock fans to mosh and crowd surf. Although they too are described as a pop punk band, Four Year Strong performed

tracks which were a lot heavier than the usual songs in the genre. The band definitely packed a punch both lyrically and musically, leaving the crowd hot and ready for more.

Lastly the colossal pop-punkrock band from Maryland, Good Charlotte, stormed the stage. The unofficial ‘headliners’ of the tour have gathered a massive fan-base over their nearly 15 years of performing, the majority of the rock fans inside of the Academy had announced that they were there to see Good Charlotte, and received more than the show they

Joel Madden of Good Charlotte

were expecting. The ‘Introduction to Cardiology’ announced the arrival of Good Charlotte onto the Birmingham stage before driving straight into ‘The Anthem’; fans surged forward at a chance to get on the barrier to be closer to the American rockers. The band performed tracks from all five of their albums, including the most recent addition, Cardiology, which was released late last year. The music from Benji, Paul, Dean and Billy reflected the true pop-punk sound the band are known for. Joel’s vocals remaining strong throughout the night, blasting old and new tracks stirring the audience to a frenzy of pushing, moshing and crowd surface, to the point where the O2 Academy barrier was feeling the full force of the Good Charlotte fans. ‘Keep your hands off my girl’, ‘The River’ and the new ‘Sex on the Radio’ were just some songs the band played as part of their impressive set.

It was clear to the crowd that the band considered their audience interaction as important as their musical performance. The Madden twins charming all of the girls in the room with claims of seeing many attractive women in Birmingham,

only hyping the female audience members up to submit the same energy as the male members. All the time joking and laughing, looking genuinely thrilled to be playing their music to Good Charlotte veterans and first timers. It is often a rare thing to see a band with as much energy as Good Charlotte had as late on in the tour as the Birmingham date was.

Although the majority of the spotlight was on Benji and Joel, the band have amazing chemistry and love for old pop-punk values similar to bands such as Blink-182 and Green Day. Instead of going off for an encore Good Charlotte took requests of older songs before ending the night with ‘Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous’.

Those who did not come to see Good Charlotte left loving them. The charisma Good Charlotte possesses is something that a lot of new bands lack; they have not forgotten that the fans are as important as the music they play, the albums they put out and merchandise they sell.

The Kerrang Relentless Tour 2011 had a line-up which got the blood pumping and the sweat dripping of every crowd member, setting a bench mark for the 2012 tour.

Hottest star of the fortnight Charlie Brennan

Beyoncé Full Name: Beyoncé

Giselle Knowles

Interesting Fact: Last year Beyoncé released a new fragrance called ‘Heat’ even though in fact, she is allergic to perfume herself.

This issues ‘hottest star’ is in fact one of the hottest stars in the world continually, since breaking onto the music scene with Destiny’s Child, Beyoncé has worked hard to secure her status as one of the best female music artists in the industry.

However, she has gained new heights of status within the UK as she has just been confirmed as the headline act for the famous Glastonbury festival. Thus meaning she will join the ranks of Elvis Costello, Oasis, Shirley Bassey and Rod Stewart.

Beyoncé, in securing this huge achievement follows in the footsteps of her ‘hip-hop’ husband, Jay-Z, who headlined the festival in 2008 in one of the most controversial choices in Glastonbury history. Many festival go-ers were against this decision as Glastonbury has always had a very ‘rock/alternative’ image and by choosing Jay-Z as a headline act, many felt it was against everything that Glastonbury was about. These included outspoken musician Noel Gallagher who said of the decision “I'm sorry, but Jay-Z? No chance.

Glastonbury has a tradition of guitar music and even when they throw the odd curve ball in on a Sunday night you go 'Kylie Minogue?' I don't know about it. But I'm not having hip hop at Glastonbury. It's wrong." However it went ahead and Jay-Z pulled in huge crowds and proved that change was necessary, Glastonbury had started to include more dance tents and stages, therefore hip-hop and rap is just another progression.

By selecting Beyoncé as this years headline act, the organisers have taken

the conscious decision to introduce a wider range of more eclectic acts as opposed to just relying on the traditional rock acts that Glastonbury was previously known for.

In a statement released alongside the announcement, Beyoncé stated, "This really is the biggest festival in the world and I cannot wait to perform there. Everyone who attends is really appreciative of music and is in such a good mood that entire weekend, I'm pumped just thinking about that huge audience and soaking up their energy."

Glastonbury is the largest openair music festival in the world and has taken place nearly every year since 1981, it is unique as a festival and renowned for being the most culturally diverse festival worldwide.

It doesn’t just showcase live music acts, it plays hosts to comedy, dance, theatre, circus and even cabaret.

So will Beyoncé be able to compete with these big names in Glastonbury history or will she struggle under the pressure of such a prestigious festival?

Personally I feel that this diva will take

it all in her stride and deal with anything that is thrown at her, however, knowing the past history of festivals, having stuff ‘thrown at her’ could turn out to be quite literal.

6 | Tuesday 8 March 2011

Music

Total Blackout at the LG My Chemical Romance support act, The Blackout, impress fans at the LG Arena Charlie Brenann

As an extreme My Chemical Romance fan, I spent my Sunday afternoon queuing in the rain so that as soon as doors to Birmingham’s LG Arena opened, I could run to get the best possible spot, ideally right in front of Gerard Way. This was all that mattered to me. I did not care about who the support bands were going to be, to me they were just something I had to ‘endure’ before my favourite band could finally grace the stage.

At about 8:15pm after being very pleasantly surprised by the first support, LostAlone; three guys with an alarming resemblance of The Mighty Boosh’s, Noel Fielding, it was time for the second support act.

My first impression of The Blackout could not have been better. Six Welsh lads whose passion and enthusiasm for what they do, was hard not to notice, it was also contagious. This was particularly apparent in the demeanour and presence of the frontmen, Sean Smith and Gavin Butler. Both men walked on stage

with a vengeance declaring that the midlands crowd had some way to go if they wanted to beat the previous days crowd – Wembley!

The Blackout frontman Sean Smith

Well! There lay the gauntlet, and it’s safe to say that the Birmingham crowd were not about to be outdone.

From the very first drum beat of the first song, Shut The F*** Uppercut to the final end beat in their last song Children of The Night, the crowd went insane.

This band were infectious, without knowing any of the songs, I was still absolutely absorbed by their music and could not stop myself from going crazy along with the other members of the crowd. The contrast of Sean Smith’s voice which ranged from punk-pop tones to hard-core rock screaming mixed perfectly with the incredible voice of Gavin Butler.

The band performed a total of ten songs, all of which included incredible riffs and extreme drumming, the band were seamless, everything fit together and worked well at getting the audience involved. Sean Smith worked particularly hard to get the audience participating in a ‘screaming Mexican wave’, as one of the frontmen, Sean, stood out particularly as he imitated sexual acts on his microphone and strutted around the

stage with just enough arrogance and attitude, that actually made him funny rather than coming across as someone who was so above himself that he felt his band deserved to be loved.

For example, at one point I have very distinct memories of him straddling Welsh rockers The Blackout one of the speakers and swinging his mic lead following day buying every album and around his head and thrusting, those song I could get my hands on. sorts of images are quite hard to forget!

Such an incredible live band This band blew me away, I went with a huge infectious enthusiasm in not particularly caring about and passion for music. They have a them, I wouldn’t of cared if they had headline tour coming up in April and decided to have no support, however I urge everybody, no matter what I came out well and truly a fan of The the music taste, to give these guys a Blackout and subsequently spent the chance.

Glamour of the Kill at Sumo

Gemma Harling

Glamour of the Kill, Shadows Chasing Ghosts and Forever Living Dead at the Sumo in Leicester.

The venue may not have been big but Glamour of the Kill did not let the four walls of the Sumo in Leicester, on the 24 February, stop them from causing havoc amongst their fans.

There was a late start to the gig which left many antsy and eager for the first support band, Forever Living Dead, to come on. The usually four piece band apologised to the Sumo audience for the absence of a member who had left the band fairly recently, causing the remaining

members to rethink and rework their tracks. Despite this, Forever Living Dead were able to start the evening on a high. The enthusiastic music the band projected helped warm a static audience, although they did not receive the reception they perhaps deserved due to the time the crowd had to wait.

The Leicestershire based alternative rock band impressed with their instrumental control and sound, however it would have benefitted from some technical tweaking as the lyrics were lost amongst the over powering amplifier. The band’s performance at the Sumo was amazing under the circumstances, however being on home turf they could not disappoint their local fans by cancelling. When the Forever Living Dead have replaced the missing member or refigure their songs appropriately to fit the remaining trio, their performance will be lifted to another level as they already have the potential to impress rock lovers.

The second and announced, ‘official’ support of the Glamour of the Kill’s UK tour were Shadows Chasing Ghosts. The screamo/ rock

band from London were not shy about making noise. The small size of the venue did not hinder their passion for being loud and at times insane. Frontman Trey Tremain got up close and personal with many fans almost swinging at them from the metal roof beams. Although the lyrics were lost among the volume of scream vocals, the band projected energy all around the dingy Sumo basement.

The floodlights highlighted the faces of the audience; brightening the room and making the crowd come alive.

Moshing started during Shadows Chasing Ghosts’ set which, in such a confined space, was violent and mental.

The band encouraged the audience to get involved by clapping to the beat and head-banging to the heavy instrumentals, truly fulfilling their duty as a support band to warm up the room ready for the headliners.

Technically the music was astounding, the guitar riffs and solos from Matt Jones and Damien Cummins were sharp and electric, accompanied by the strong drum beats from Danny Coy and the depth of bass played

by Danny Green. Shadows Chasing Ghosts were well received by the

Leicester audience, most of the crowd were out of breath by the end of their set, but ready for more.

The headliners, Glamour of the Kill, came on stage for their ‘The Summoning tour’, to a chorus of screams from the Leicester crowd. The rock-pop/metal band from York take on the appearance of a stereotypical heavier band, tattoo clad and clothed in black; however the band’s sound was ‘softer’ than what was expected, after their support choice was fairly heavy. Glamour of the Kill combined the perfect amount of lyrical singing and screaming in order for the crowd to join in.

Vocalist, Davey Richmond, remained strong throughout the entire set, voicing the band’s lyrics clearly and with enthusiasm whilst also controlling the bass guitar. All band members contribute to the vocals at some point during the set, giving a sense of chemistry and equality amongst them, unlike some bands where the frontman hogs the spotlight, this sense of isolation was not present between Glamour of the Kill. Lead guitarist Mike Kingswood shredded incredible guitar solos which were only amplified by riffs of other

guitarist Chris Gomerson, and beats from drummer Ben Thomson all three adding the intense, superb music to the band’s tracks. The audience were extremely active for Glamour of the Kill, jumping, thrashing, moshing, head-banging and singing at every opportunity, the long wait they had seemed insignificant now the band were on stage.

The relatively short set list of eleven songs seemed popular with the audience, their fans’ passion to move being relentless until the end. The benefit of a smaller venue is that the crowd get a true sense of a band from a close perspective, which is what they received from Glamour of the Kill. The songs all had a sound more upbeat than their names, they played tracks such as ‘A Hope in Hell’, ‘Lost Souls’ and ‘Rise from your Grave’, morbidly titled yet surprisingly buoyant. Ending the set with a more optimistic track, ‘Feeling Alive’ which applied to every crowd member after this adrenaline fuelled performance.

Glamour of the Kill have a sound that belongs in bigger venue and judging by their set in Leicester it may not be long in the future before they dominate a larger stage.

Tuesday 8 March 2011 | 7

Music

Reviews and debuts

Katie Bowley looks at what's hot and what's not in the music world today Sam Keene's album of the attic The Daydream Club are a band you may well not have heard of; however, with the release of their first full studio album, Overgrown, this is something I suggest you rectify as soon as possible.

Now don’t go into this album expecting driving guitars and heavy drums, as you will receive none, however you will be given something new, exciting and extremely innovative The main element that transforms a good album into a great one, in my view, is the way the story is told, both in the music and the vocals, and this album continues on to an incredible story in The Affair, which on the surface is only the barebones of a song, by means of only a piano and vocals, an ominous sound is created, and when added to the haunting vocals and story of a distraught wife who can’t take any more of her husband’s Infidelity, creates a truly moving song.

All in all, Overgrown is an incredibly eclectric album, showing amazing song writing, vocal and instrumental talents, and is and album that I strongly advise you to listen.

MONA

After a very anticipated arrival, Radiohead have finally announced the release of their new album King of Limbs. Many years have flown by since their last album In Rainbows, four years ago, and their first in 1993, Pablo Honey. Let’s hope the album brings us hits similar to Creep and Paranoid Android and follows another path to success. The most eagerly awaited album of the year is upon us, watch this space for a review in the nearby future.

MONA play KOKO in Camden

album and singles chart. With her new album 21 claiming top spot on the album chart, her previous album, 19, has climbed again at number two!

For the fifth week in a row, London born Adele has claimed the top spot

NME Awards

Adele No1

British sensation Adele has taken two number one spots on this week’s

The Shockwaves NME Awards are held every year and usually set off with a bang. Opening the show this year was My Chemical Romance styling balaclavas with an exquisite performance of Na Na Na Na. Muse walked away with Best British Band while Hurts are topped Best New Band and Foals grab Best Single for track I would recommend for a listen, with Liam’s signature vocals your automatically drawn in for a listen.

A perfect album for background coursework music, certain to keep you from going insane, a satisfying Oasis substitute.

Jessie J – Who You Are

Ok, they are not Oasis, but clearly they have a similar sound, wonder why that is. Beady Eye are a perfect example as to how follow up bands can succeed and produce their own sound.

Despite fact that Beady Eye are Oasis without the Noel, their music does not match to ‘samey’.

Bring the Light is far more upbeat and up-tempo than any Oasis tracks, so the music similarity can be ruled out. Beady Eye’s sound is toe tapping, rhythmic and energising certain to entertain. Four Letter Word is another

Spanish Sahara. All to my prediction!

Dave Grohl received the Godlike Genius award this year, and Foo Fighters closed this year’s ceremony with a performance of their complete new album Wasting Light.

Festival Time for her current album, and hit the top spot with Someone Like You after her incredible performance at the BRIT Awards a few weeks ago.

Music Beady Eye – reviews Different Gear, Still Speeding

A Nashville based four peice in the form of Mona, have an exquisite sound to what can only conform as indie alternative rock.

Mona have just released their third single “Teenager”, after their success following previous singles in the UK. They are working on their debut self-titled album at present, with the release date nearing in May. Mona are current and unexpected, so watch out for the album.

King of Limbs

Jessie J, from my home roots in Essex really has taken the nation by storm. With Do it like a Dude becoming a nation favourite, it’s not too hard to see where she is heading.

Songs of note are Mamma Knows Best and her upcoming single Casualty of Love. Her voice is so very unique; I really can’t compare her to any other.

It’s that time of the year again where I spend all of my money on festival tickets and delay my rent!

We all love to watch the line up announcements, and the most recent of those is the much loved V Festival, which takes place in Chelmsford and Staffordshire.

As Eminem, Rihanna, Artic Monkeys and Plan B are set amongst the main performers, it could be a good weekend.

As Glastonbury is looking at Beyoncé and Coldplay headlining it seems like a pretty good year for the good old English festival season.

Good luck with getting your tickets!

Every girl wants to sing like her, look like her and just be like her. She’s a diva, she’s highly strung and she’s endearing which is why her debut will promise to be a success. Jessie ‘J’ Cornish has written the whole album, including her hit singles, that’s pure British talent right there.

Alexis Jordan – Alexis Jordan

PJ Har vey

She’s been active for n early years, P J H arvey has co 20 me back with a new album “Let England Sh ake”. She p lays many instruments bu skills that m t it’s her guitarist akes her stan d out. and matches any style she wishes to portray. The album is a mix of upbeat and the slower melody which gives great variety when looking for a new album to buy or download. The new single, Good Girl, is one of my favourites on the album, it’s just so catchy.

Alexis Jordan’s album is well made and put together, it seems she is going to be a great success. Especially as she has been signed to Jay Z’s label Roc Nation.

Editor's Choice

Not my favourite musical style, yet Alexis Jordan is incredibly talented considering she’s only 18 and got kicked off America’s got Talent in 2006. Her style is somewhat to be compared with the likes of Alexandra Burke and The Sugababes.

Her voice is melodic and harmonious

1. Lady GaGa – Born this Way 2. Arcade Fire – City with no Children 3. Kings of Leon – The Immortals 4. Cage the Elephant – Shake me Down 5. Adele – Someone Like You 6. The Vaccines – If you Wanna 7. Rihanna – S & M 8. Does it Offend you Yeah? – Monkeys are Coming 9. Chris Brown - Champion 10. Alexis Jordan – Good Girl Check out our Spotify playlist at http://bit.ly9aaFou

8 | Tuesday 8 March 2011

Fashion

The Oscars best dressed This issue Jessica Hind takes a look at who had heads turning at this years Oscar awards.

Designer Divas

Amy Adams received a nomination for Best supporting actress for her role in ‘The Fighter’, but she is no doubt a winner in this L’wren Scott creation. A bolt of electric blue sequins between the reds and nudes, Amy creates a look that’s both youthful and unique, but stays elegant with a high neckline and 1940's inspired hair. The royal blue contrasts perfectly with her pale complexion and red curls, with simple nude make-up to finish the look.

Fashion Failures

Not only did she host this years Oscars, but Anne Hathaway went through a record eight changes throughout the night with the help of renowned stylist Rachel Zoe. This was her first look as she took to the red carpet; a strapless Valentino in show-stopping red, from the label’s own couture archive. The designer himself even accompanied her for her entrance. She accessorized with diamonds from Tiffany’s, and kept her make up simple but matching, with a red lipstick and nails.

Halle Berry went for all-out Oscar glamour this year, in a stunning Marchesa strapless fishtail gown. Tones of nude and cream were combined with crystals studded from top to bottom, before trailing out into a flurry of organza and silk tulle ruffles.

The dress was allowed to shine with a clean neckline and simple hair, but was finished off with a smoky eye and a pair of diamond earrings and a matching ring. This is surely one of her best looks to date.

Dressing with a baby bump has never been an easy task, yet Natalie Portman has embraced the challenge, and won multiple stylists approval in the process. For the most prestigious awards ceremony yet, Natalie chose a violet, off the shoulder draped gown

by Rodarte, with crystal accents along the bust line, and a pleated design above her bump to flatter her new pregnant shape. She accessorized with Tiffany & Co. jewellery and a Roger Vivier bronze box clutch.

Although a fan of dresses with a slight edge, normally Nicole Kidman manages to exude red-carpet-cool. However, this year she has crossed the line between individual and bizarre in this oriental-inspired white Dior gown. The structure and detail of the dress seem to wear Nicole instead of the other way around, and the orange Pierre Hardy peep toes are all wrong.

The only positive was the stunning 19th century diamond Riviere necklace by Fred Leighton.

Scarlett Johansson’s burgundy lace dress by Dolce and Gabbana was a talking point all over the red carpet. Although the shape of the dress and the lace accentuated Scarlett’s figure, the colour was a little bland and it aged her older than her 26 years. The transparent parts of the dress also made it seem as though she’d had a wardrobe malfunction rather than it being a key feature. However, this will definitely be a topic for continued debate.

What can be said about Helena BohnamCarter’s style? Some call it individual; I would refer to it as simply odd. Each awards ceremony is another chance for voluminous gowns of odd materials and shapes, and we have come to expect no less. But choosing to team a Colleen Atwood costume design with a union jack garter is bordering on simply ridiculous. However, we must applaud her for adding a sense of humour to the otherwise serious business of award ceremony fashion.

For a woman with an amazing body, Marisa Tomei manages to downplay it with an unflattering and ill-fitting Oscar gown.

The Violet Charles James couture dress sits uncomfortably around Marissa’s middle, looking tight and uncomfortable, whilst the sweetheart neckline sits too high and upon her chest. As for the bottom, it looks like two dresses were sent through a sewing machine together and this is the outcome.

Tuesday 8 March 2011 | 9

Fashion

Outrageous catwalk nonsense Demon Fashion takes a look at the avant garde catwalk creations of Gareth Pugh and discuss whether they really have a place in fashion.

Sofia Farelli

I find the term ‘cutting edge’ is thrown around a great deal inside the fashion industry. I often think it’s a kinder, but lazy, substitute for ‘absolutely ridiculous.’ There are times when the catwalk shows feel like a performance of The Emperor’s New Clothes; where everyone is too scared to admit they don’t quite understand what they’re watching, through fear of being branded “just hopelessly stupid”. Everyone is in on it, the models, the fashion journalists, buyers, and even the designers themselves. They must be.

I have to believe that this is one elaborate inside joke because otherwise I think we’re in trouble. In an age where original ideas are starting to become quite scarce, people are favouring the shock factor instead.

There are certainly times when it works, but all too often it really doesn’t. Originality is a tough one because whatever idea you’ve had it’s highly likely it was already done thirty years ago. Probably by Madonna. So, when originality isn’t on your side why not just throw some latex and rubber armbands in to the mix.

My case study, and personal hate figure, is Gareth Pugh. An English designer, who hit the cover of Dazed and Confused with his use of balloons to accentuate model’s joints in his degree show, who consistently hits distasteful and ugly notes with his exclusively, and highly un-wearable, catwalk collections.

Pugh has used everything from synthetic hair to electrically charged plastic in his collections. He boasts that he makes ‘wearable sculptures to distort the human body almost

Lady GaGa is a fan of Pugh's crazy creations.

beyond recognition.’ Believe it or not, I have no issue with experimentation and fashion is about pushing boundaries and I further think that there is often a fine line between art and fashion.

It’s when these lines become blurred to the point where it’s plain stupid that I just don’t see what point they’re making.

Pugh regularly receives comparisons to the likes of Alexander McQueen and Vivienne Westwood for his use of form and volume. Where these designers differ greatly is the latter understand the female figure and create luxurious garments that challenge traditional fitting and create fantasy, but in a way that doesn’t exclude women. This is the area I feel Pugh is lacking especially that his work often seems self-indulgent. It seems that he will do it just because he can. Admittedly, his most recent ready to wear collections has been toned down a great deal but, to me, it’s still not a favourable area of fashion.

The Spring 2011 collection looks like he drew inspiration from The Fifth Element and broken dishes. Ultimately, I would argue, it doesn’t create a flattering look on anyone. I know models are supposed to be straight faced on the catwalk Could this really be converted for the highstreet? but I doubt they were overly happy about wearing clothes that to put a circle of spikes around your industry now. It’s so difficult to make resembled sheets of metal anyway. In ears or to walk around in an S&M it as a designer now; of course you an interview with Style.com, Pugh latex mask. need something to make you stand said he was “keen to avoid the sci-fi Maybe I’m being cynical but I just out. Although it does feel like it’s no tag.” Well, sir you failed miserably don’t see any redeeming factors in solonger really about talent or the ability on that front. called designers like Pugh. He receives to design garments. So often garments His Spring 2010 collection critical acclaim, he has a boutique in get dismissed with ‘we’ve seen it all also puts me in mind of the Hong Kong and even celebrities like before’ but just because we’ve not clothes people thought we’d be Beyoncé and Kylie Minogue have seen it before doesn’t make it good. wearing by the new millennium, been known to wear his creations.

For example, Pugh’s polo neck top when we were all supposed to be Henry Holland even made one of with sheer mesh from the shoulders getting around on spaceships and those eighties throwback slogan tees down, it’s a basic garment given a new have our thoughts and feelings for him emblazoned with UHU edge. And it is absolutely hideous. processed by computer. That kind GARETH PUGH. While I don’t Personally, I’m going to stick with my of stereotypical ‘futuristic’ and agree with those tees unless it’s George whole items of clothing, thank you ‘innovative’ clothing that nobody Michael circa Wham era, I love Henry Gareth. outside Lady Gaga land would ever Holland and hate to disagree with What scares me even more is that be seen wearing. And I consider him. should Pugh really hit the big time, the term ‘futuristic’ to be one of So, I certainly can’t argue that Pugh we’re going to start seeing his work the most vague adjectives known to isn’t doing anything right, he’s clearly gradually creeping up in high street man. Don’t even get me started on got basis for appeal to the fashion stores. Primark will be ripping off his ‘edgy’, I will argue until I’m blue in masses. Maybe it’s me missing the work and how well do you think a the face that’s not even a valid term. point? Perhaps I am ‘just hopelessly latex suit with a wrap around spikes Innovative can mean ahead of the stupid.’ I read all of his positive will translate on to the high street? times, and I just can’t picture a time reviews and I just wonder if we’re Can you imagine the fabrics? The when this breed of clothing will be actually seeing the same thing going cuts? We were all their when neon the norm. At least I hope and prey down that catwalk. Or maybe my came back, weren’t we? Oh, the it never will be socially acceptable mind is too closed for the fashion humanity.

10 | Tuesday 8 March 2011

Fashion

Rise of the fashion bloggers Fashion bloggers are fast becoming one of the biggest influences on the industry, this issue we take a look at how this huge phenomenon is growing.

Amy Cliff

Some of the biggest names at last week’s London Fashion Week weren’t A-list celebrities, but A-list bloggers.

Taking their place on the front row amongst fashion ‘icons’, this elite group of style bloggers open their MacBooks, their global audiences eagerly awaiting their instant catwalk reports.

Among the most ‘famous’ are London’s Susie Bubble, Manila’s Bryanboy, America’s Tavi Gevinson and relative British newcomers LLYMLRS and Sara Luxe.

Susie Bubble (real name Susanna Lau)’s blog receives 25,000 visits per day (Vogue sells around 200,000 copies per month). She began ‘Style Bubble’ as a creative outlet, her reputation growing to such extremes that Dazed and Confused scouted her

as their online commissioning editor.

14-year-old Tavi is a phenomenon in the fashion world. Designers fight to dress her, brands try to buy her allegiance and magazines want to hire her.

Midlands blogger Lily Melrose of LLYLMLRS (her initials) is celebrated for her down-to-earth, honest outfit posts, and insight into her chaotic but normal life.

Fashion blogging has exploded in the past two years, but they’ve been around since 2004, growing and gaining ‘followers’ to such an extent, that bloggers are being awarded front row seats at almost every catwalk going.

Distinguished blogger Scott Schuman, whose street-style blog The Sartorialist, has earned him a job at fashion newspapers, magazines and companies, believes blogs are popular because ‘Bloggers show the average person that they too can be part of it’

(the fashion industry).

Sara Wilson, the girl behind Sara Luxe, and who was recently chosen to be Company magazine’s Brit Girl, has noticed more bloggers appearing in magazines. “Magazines are used to speaking at us, whereas most bloggers talk to us, it’s more conversational and personal.” She says. “The media are catching on that bloggers speak in a more ‘current’ tone.”

Fashion blogs, whether they’re style diaries, outfit posts, catwalk reviews or a sartorial look at the industry, are opening up a new branch of fashion media. Their approach is informal, friendly, mostly unaffected by brand alliance and these people have the same issues as we do. They shop in Primark (ok, maybe not Bryanboy or Susie Lau), they have jobs, they go to uni and they get buyer’s remorse.

Millions of people read blogs

because they are a new form of fashion writing. It may not be ‘journalism’ but it’s becoming harder to make the distinction. A-list bloggers know what they are talking about regardless of a job at Vogue.

They understand fashion and bring it closer to the real girls who buy clothes.

These bloggers have monetised the internet, building their own brands, attracting audiences to rival ‘traditional’ media. Magazines are slowly beginning to let these people in, realising their potential to bring their thousands strong audience with them.

Part of their charm is their ability to speak to readers on every level, to alert them to all of their thoughts, and for the foreseeable future, the rise of the blogger can only continue.

Suzy Bubble, the face behind famous blog; Style Bubble.

Handbags are a girls best friend Where would we be with out our essential everyday handbags? Demon fashion investigates.

Charlotte Cookson

Whoever said that diamonds are a girl's best friend was clearly mistaken.

Whether running to and from lectures or just relaxing in Starbucks, a woman's most precious fashion item of choice is her handbag.

According to statistics, the average woman in the UK spends approximately £4000 on handbags bought on the high street in their lifetimes. Over the whole of the British female population, this equals £96 billion – the equivalent budget of the NHS in one year.

A bag has become a necessity to survive the urban jungle that is faced everyday with contents such as phone chargers, magazines and iPods joining simpler items like a purse and a pen to be carried around. Whilst it must seem like everything is thrown into a bag randomly to most men, each item has been specially placed with a certain situation in mind. Plasters for accidents, headphones for waiting around or a camera to capture a priceless moment for Facebook, a handbag and it's contents always come to the rescue.

In the fashion world, handbags are

What's in Charlotte's bag?

Purse, containing too many loyalty cards and tickets Keys and USB memory stick Phone charger Copy of Elle magazine 4 Pens and 6 IKEA pencils Post-it notes Camera Perfume Make-up bag bursting at the seams Headphones Vouchers, In and out of date Notepad and lecture slide handouts

like currency. In a recent trip to Selfridges in London, I watched as excited and anxious shoppers queued to get into high end concessions such as Louis Vuitton and Mulberry to buy one of their well-recognised bags.

In 2010, the Mulberry Alexa bag (named after it's muse – Alexa Chung) sparked a 9000 strong waiting list for the £766 bag. Even the head of the company couldn't get her hands on one! This immediately caused satchels to be the most coveted bag of the year and has lead to a preppy trend appearing this spring.

So what are the key trends for 2011? If you can't afford the latest Mulberry addition – Tillie (£812), go for colourful bags to really put the 'spring' into spring/summer 2011!

If you do wish to invest in a higher priced handbag than usual, try not to make it an impulse purchase!

Can you answer the following questions? Will you still be using the bag in a years time? Can you wear it with almost everything in your wardrobe? Can you find a cheaper but just as beautiful alternative for a cheaper price? Most of all, does this bag represent yourself? If so, congratulations, you have just found your new best friend!

Tuesday 8 March 2011 | 11

Features

Demon girls

Katie says...

How far is too far?

With the run up to Varsity all eyes are on DMU sports teams to impress and achieve a victorious win against our rivals Leicester Uni. This is a pivotal diary event for university sports teams to show fellow rivals as well as spectators what they are made of.

With drinking bans in place and training around the clock, the pressure is mounting for a performance of a lifetime, but does this pressure over step the fun factor?

DMU tend to have a good mix of taking it seriously but not taking it to an unfair and unwarranted extreme. Once on the pitch at the illustrious stadiums you could say the banter stems to malicious and undue with some.

Yes, rivalry banter shouldn’t be too far from our lips as this creates atmosphere and good British competitive spirit. Though when does the over the top banter and self imposed rules go too far for athletes essentially doing this for fun?

Competing is a feeling known by most, and we all know that there is an amazing satisfaction in this, so most certainly varsity players should take it seriously, and I’m not saying “its the taking part that counts, not the winning” because lets face it, all we want is to win.

But the fun factor in this momentous event should not be forgotten.

Yasmin says...

With the biggest matches of DMU’s sporting season looming, Captains are naming their team, planning their tactics and enforcing drinking bans all in aid of Varsity.

Drinking bans being the main point of conversation among many teammates in up and coming weeks.

Are they really necessary?

As Hockey Captain, I for one will be encouraging my team to at least lower their alcohol intake, if not take a complete break from drinking over the next four weeks.

Rugby, football, netball and badminton are amongst others taking a similar approach.

You may not notice an immediate change but talking from experience, the improvement in your stamina and fitness is clear when up against ‘the famous Leicester Uni’.

Not to mention the advantages it has when battling with – what seems to be – a never-ending stressful struggle with University work that comes around this time of year.

It certainly has its advantages.

However, the thought of enduring more than just one week without an alcoholic beverage, seems to scare some students.

But it’s a challenge right?

And if it helps beat our biggest rivals, it’s worth a shot eh!

So over the next month, jump on the teetotal wagon and play your part in giving the scum a run for their money!

Quote for thought: “Champions aren't made in the gyms.

Champions are made from something they have deep inside them — a desire, a dream, a vision.” — Muhammad Ali. Muhammad Ali, American Boxer

Visit our Facebook page: Demon Girls

This issue's Hottie and Tottie

Katie Kourellias & Yasmin Duffin

e i t t o T

Name: Sonika Badhan Age: 20 Studying: Law and Politics Single/Taken: Single Favourite Sport: At the moment, Cricket Favourite Sports Person: Raul Meireles, blonde hair and lots of tattoos...very nice!

Best Sporting Moment: France vs.

Germany, 2006 World Cup, when Zinedine Zidane head butted Marco Materazzi.

It was his last match and he got a red card.

Name: Barry Edwards Jr. Age: 20 Studying: Journalism Single/Taken: Taken Favourite Sport: Cricket Favourite Sports Person: Thierry Henry Best Sporting Moment: England winning the Rugby World Cup '03.

Hott

ie

Want to nominate anyone for hottie or tottie of the issue? Visit our Facebook page.

VARSITY ‘11!

TO DO LIST FOR MARCH: • Save these dates to support DMU Football (21st) and all other Varsity events (30th) • Get banter at the ready • Make I

Demon Girls wish all participants the best of luck! Give em' all you've got but most importantly have fun!

DMU banners

• Buy a foam finger • AND FINALLY...

BUY YOUR VARSITY TICKETS!

12 | Tuesday 8 March 2011

Travel

Hakone: The legacy lives on From the hustle and bustle of Tokyo to the smooth seduction of Hakone Kayla Mulcahy

Hakone is known for its legendary hot springs (onsen) created naturally by a four-thousand year old erupted volcano. This town boasts of mountain trails, scenic boat trips across Lake Ashi, and of course its cable car rides up across the mountains.

Taking a coach ride from Tokyo's Shinjuku Station to Hakone took a little under three hours and was more relaxing than catching several trains.

Booking tickets in advance may help you save a few yen, but the standard fair is about £20. As we planned our next trip in Kyoto we made arrangements from our Tokyo hotel to send our luggage to the hotel in our third and final destination. This was such a smart move as the coach does not accommodate numerous sets of luggage, so instead we simply packed an overnight bag, and of course our swim suits for the onsens. It can be quite worrying sending all of your main possessions across Japan, but their system is so efficient that it Mount Fuji

would be extremely unlikely if your suitcase got lost along the way.

Set in the beautiful mountainous countryside just to the south of Mt. Fuji, Hakone's roads twist and turn over and under ancient landscapes.

The height of some of the trails can take your breath away, but with the buses speeding up the narrow lanes there is no time to panic as this is what they're accustomed to but, a word of warning; take some stomach settlers before departing if you tend to get travel sick as this is worse than your average boat ride. Seeing such a contrast from the metropolis Tokyo, it was stunning to see Japan's natural and cultural history.

Staying in a traditional guest house, we were welcomed by the owners; a lovely Japanese family who spoke perfect English. Keeping up with traditions it's important that you remove your shoes before entering their humble home. The main housekeeper gave us a quick tour to make us feel at home, and then took the time to go over all the fantastic

attractions to get the most out of our day, including what buses to catch.

Our room was big and comfortable, with two futons, a television and a patio door that opened onto a splendid display of cherry blossom trees in the elegantly kept garden.

Clean towels and kimonos were ready for our use after a relaxing treat in their private onsen, but first we set off on a trail of historic Hakone.

From Gora Station we took a ten minute mountain lift to the Sounzan stop to get to the Hakone Ropway.

Although this trip was slow as the mountain was so steep, this was a chance to capture some amazing views. The famous Ropeway is a 2.5 mile aerial tram that takes you over mountainous terrain and finally onto Lake Ashi.

The notorious midway point of the Ropeway stops at Qwakudani, also known as the 'Great Boiling Valley'.

Here you can stop for a bite to eat and try their famous black egg, before setting off to hike up the side of the volcano. Much of the area is still an

active volcano and that explains the slightly green geothermal gasses escaping from fissures in the rock.

On a clear day you may be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji, Hakone Castle but if not then take our advice and travel across Lake Ashi by boat to see the wonders of the snow-capped peak. And by boat I mean pirate ship. This ship is a visually stunning replica that will take you on a cruise across Lake Ashi. This will roughly come to a five hour trip, but is worth the panoramic views and of course Mount Fuji.

Although we started our adventure in Hakone at midday, we didn't make

it back to our guest house until after 8pm, and we just managed to get the last bus from Gora Station, so plan wisely as we just got lucky.

Too tired to eat we decided to book ourselves an hour in the private onsen to relax our aching feet. It had been a very long and hectic day, but full of adventure. There is a hot spring amusement park and spa resort nearby with a bit of a twist. Hakone Kowakien Yunessun has twenty five different spa rooms, from actual green tea and coffee to Japanese sake, all said to enrich your skin leaving it silky smooth. Unfortunately we could not enter the resort as within the Japanese culture tattoos are associated with gang members, and despite the fact that we were foreigners both with tattoos we would not be allowed to enter.

After taking time out in the onsen we headed to our rooms for the most peaceful sleep we've ever had. The futons were surprisingly comfortable and although the house was full of guests from around the world, everyone was polite enough to keep the noise down.

Like our hotel in Tokyo breakfast was free, but the guesthouse family made fresh fruit salads, boiled eggs and cereal instead of fish cakes. This meal really set us up for the day as soon we would be departing on the Bullet Train headed for Kyoto; where the heart of traditional Japan lies.

After everything we've seen and experienced so far, and the distance we travelled, you would expect this to be a pretty expensive holiday.

However, you'll be surprised to read next week the full cost of our budget Japan tour. It was so worth the money that I'm already planning a second trip.

Next time: Kyoto

Tuesday 8 March 2011 | 13

Travel

Putting varsity to shame Americans show us the way university vs. university sport is meant to be James King Travel Editor

Americans do everything ten times bigger. McDonalds. Cars.

People. And sport is the same.

Imagine running onto a pitch to play a game, in a stadium with over 100,000 people in, and millions more are sitting at home watching on television.

Most athletes would only accomplish this when they become international superstars, and represent their country. But for the players of college football in America, it happens every week.

These guys are college students. They are the same age as you and me, but they’re treated like gods by the fans. Even if the varsity matches between De Montfort and Leicester University could fill up the Walkers Stadium or Welford Road, they would still be nowhere near as watched as collegiate sports in America. Michigan Stadium, the home of the Michigan Wolverines football team, holds almost

“The Big House” — Michigan Stadium

110,000 people, and is the third biggest stadium in the world.

In fact, six of the ten biggest stadiums in the world, belong to American college football teams. Professional football players in the NFL don’t even play in stadiums that big. Having said that the biggest (Washington Redskins) is 90,000 and the smallest (Chicago Bears) at 63,000 is twice the size of the Walkers and almost three times bigger than Welford Road.

It’s this uniqueness of American culture that makes it so fascinating and enjoyable. I was in California last year and was able to take in a game at the Rose Bowl (capacity 92,542 and sixteenth biggest in the world) between the UCLA Bruins and the Stanford Cardinals.

The buzz and the energy given off by Andrew Luck of the Stanford Cardinals the fans was incredible.

They’re watching amateur athletes, one of whom - Andrew Luck, the Stanford quarterback – is destined to become an NFL star this year.

I was genuinely excited to be there. I enjoyed it a lot more than my girlfriend who didn’t understand any of the rules and didn’t know where the ball was most of the time. I wanted to see more. If I ever live in America I’m certain I would buy a season ticket and become a diehard fan.

The reason there is such big following for college sports in America is due to the sheer vastness of it. There are only 32 NFL teams for 600 million Americans, so for a lot of people, seeing a professional game means going on an epic adventure. For example, if you lived in Albuquerque, New Mexico, you would have to take a round trip of 900 miles to Phoenix or Denver, or a 1200 mile round trip to Dallas to see an NFL game. Or alternatively, you could simply go to the

The UCLA Bruins

other side of the city and watch the University of New Mexico Lobos play. And the tickets would be an awful lot cheaper too. What’s also important to know is that the players of the most colleges who take football seriously have been scouted since they started high school aged 14, and are being mentored and coached so they can one day play as a professional. These players are seriously good at what they do. And they’re supposed to be working for a college degree at the same time.

It’s hard to believe, but Andrew Luck is only a month older than I am, but he’s set to soon become a multi-millionaire and famous, possibly worldwide.

I have a bizarre obsession with America. I’ve written about it in this newspaper before and probably will do again. But there is something so addictive about the craziness of America that forces me to want to go back time and time again. American Football is one of the reasons I love it. Yes, I was one of those weirdoes who stayed up until three in the morning a couple of weeks ago to watch the Green Bay Packers beat the Pittsburgh Steelers in The Superbowl. But it’s not just that. I love the way Americans do everything. Cars, Pizza, Canyons. Everything is bigger and better. It’s so much more exciting.

Dublin craic on March 17th A drinker’s guide to St. Paddy’s day in Ireland’s capital Lucia Pivetta

Reach Dublin on March 17th; Saint Patrick’s Day is the perfect time of the year to quench anyone’s thirst for fun and alcohol.

St Patrick’s Festival, in honour of the Irish national saint, is an eclectic and colourful celebration made up of street parades and cultural events for all family.

It is, however, in the pubs that the real fun, or craic, goes on, brightening up the city at the beat of Irish music, dance, and laughter.

The Temple Bar, surely the most famous pub in Ireland and an experience on its own, however touristy it might be, has to be the first stop for anyone visiting at this time of year.

In a crowded yet cosy environment, live performances from local artists go down well with one of more than 450 whiskeys and scotches that are on offer from its collection, as well as many different types of beers.

Do not be mistaken, it is not all about getting drunk: each brew and brand represents the region and family it comes from, therefore it is a matter of pride to serve the best standards in glass.

With hospitality and a hint of patriotism, Dublin pubs serve some of best alcoholic beverages around, from stouts and ales, to lagers and whiskeys, in generous pint glasses and shots.

While the booze goes up, just follow the music and the crowd

to discover the best and cheapest pubs.

You won’t need to go far in the city holding the record for having more pubs per square metre than any other, and where its people won’t wait to remind you that they would have conquered the world, if it wasn’t for their drinking habit.

In the cultural quarter around Temple Bar, it’s hard to find someone in The Auld Dubliner who does not engage with the bubbly rhythms of traditional Irish violins and bodhrán (Irish drum).

It is probably the central Quay’s Bar that is the best catch when it comes to tipsy young people singing out of tune, whereas Fitzsimons is ideal if The Temple Bar, Dublin you want to meet young Dubliners.

And if you are looking for something a bit more In the famous Bewley’s café on Grafton Street, the main shopping avenue in Dublin, you can sit among 17,000 others quiet, go for M.J. O’Neill’s, right opposite of the Tourism and sip warm Irish coffee in an environment said to resemble the Centre in Suffolk Street, which dishes up traditional Irish food stowage of a ship. at fixed prices.

For those on a budget, the Traditional Irish Musical Pub Despite its origins, The Czech Inn is also popular among Dubliners, who go there for its deliciously filling Czech and Crawl offers a valuable alternative at an advantageous price.

European dishes and its chilled atmosphere.

At dusk visitors are taken from one pub to another to learn In the daytime, The Guinness Storehouse and The Old about the history of each, and enjoy drinks included in the price.

Jameson Distillery are expensive yet popular attractions.

What if you are teetotaller? Get ready to change your mind in Nothing like ordinary museums, they uncover some of the Dublin on March 17th. secrets about these brands.

14 | Tuesday 8 March 2011

Arts

Fine art auction 2011

Cultural Exchanges festival raises just under £2,000 for Fine Art students' catalogue Anoushka Wroblewski Arts Editor

The fine art auction takes place every year as part of De Montfort University's Cultural Exchanges festival.

It is set up and run by the Fine Art course’s catalogue committee whose duty it is to raise funds for the degree show’s catalogue in which final year students’ work is immortalised in book format and distributed throughout the weeklong show.

For some it may be the ultimate realisation of three years of hard work, so raising money to produce the catalogue is very important!

This year’s turnout was very exciting indeed, with the campus centre's cafeteria packed with eager bidders, from students and colleagues to pensioners and gallery owners, chatting away, pouring over the lot

listings as they grazed on wine and nibbles while the complimentary pianist provided delightful background music.

As the bidding commenced there was a mad dash for the packing assistants and presenters to catch their bearings, but timings soon smoothed out and the students quickly picked it up to put on a very professional, successful evening.

Emma D’Souza was marvellous and entertaining as one of the auctioneers, being playful and cheeky with the bidders whilst getting them past £20 on many items with one major bid ending at £100 for a large, abstract painting

by Camilla Brake.

During the intermission it was time to announce the raffle prizes, among which were vouchers for local businesses including Mrs. Bridge’s and Entropy, and a donated box of cookies for Millie’s Cookies!

The second half was when the big bucks splashed out, with even more prints going for £30 and over with only three lots not being sold out of the total 103 item horde.

When catching up with the committee’s Student Liaison Officer, Iolanda Cicciu, she estimated the auction had raised just under £2,000 for the catalogue; an amazing sum that all those who helped out should be proud of. Along with the upcoming March 16th bake sale on the Student Union's steps, there should be more than enough to cover the costs of printing.

In all, the night was a huge success and it will be interesting to see if next year’s event is just as rewarding. Well done, Fine Art and your hardworking 2011 catalogue committee.

Above: Bidders settling in, Below left: The viewing, Below right: The cashiers hard at work

CUSP gets people talking art Diablo's arts editor catches up with the CUSP arts collective to see how it's going Anoushka Wroblewski Arts Editor

Work from week 4: Diana Miguel & Thomas Woodcock (above), Jack Squires

In January we introduced Demon readers to CUSP, a new artist developed gallery that took up shop in the Malcolm Arcade, aiming to “promote and encourage the production of contemporary art in Leicester”.

So far, has it worked? I caught up with the busy artists to find out.

Each of these past six weeks has showcased for the city of Leicester the creativity and hardwork of De Montfort's Fine Art students.

There was Kerry Jackson's alternating light projections which had visitors waiting for 15 minutes to see what colours would happen next.

Daniel Kelly's signs and symbols placed in locations that give the subjects a strange, out of place feel, including the sculpture in the venue itself — a weathervanetype structure that would be better suited on a roof top, while Antonia Eleftheriou's three dimensional drawings constructed from garbage and polystyrene, among many

other intruiging pieces in the photographs shown.

The venture has been a success, with just over 100 visitors stopping by each week and many people returning to see “what’s next”.

A sculpture from the CUSP exhibition

The opinions of what has been displayed have been very mixed, though. Often involving lengthy discussions with elderly men about “what art actually is” which are amusing anecdotes when one looks back on it but rather a challenge in the moment.

During the final week, Emily

Warren exhibited several video art pieces that appeared to be controversial to the viewing public. Many a passerby would stop outside and exclaim “what the f***?!” before going on to be astonished by the notion that a television could be “art”. They wanted facts; to be told what the “deep meaning” of the work was.

Perhaps Leicester is not ready for any avant-garde revolution in its arts sector.

I personally hope CUSP sends the city snowballing into the future, arts-wise.

If you attended the event you would have had the opportunity to leave your e-mail for the mailing list, and as the project has come to an end it would have been a good idea to have signed up so as to be invited to the next big event!

For now, keep checking the blog and Facebook page and continue to support your local arts!

CUSP's blog and Facebook can be found at cuspblog. blogspot.com and facebook. com/cuspface.

Tuesday 8 March 2011 | 15

Arts

Exhibition review: ‘Old Church Slavonic’ by Vanilla Galleries Jack Squires

After the success of their ‘Spitklapp’ furniture show which I’m sure you all saw, the mischievous Loughbranian Fine Art graduates at Vanilla Galleries tackle an issue that has the possibility to change the very way we think about life, an issue so complicated, yet so commonplace, it has the potential to bend one’s mind as if it were no more than a piece of spaghetti cooked to the level of al dente, that issue, is language.

The team intend to tackle this behemoth by looking at the forgotten language of Old Church Slavonic, the first Slavic language used by 9th century crusaders, a language that is spoken no more that once had relevance in description, thought, feeling and emotion. As it is no longer used the words have no meaning.

This can therefore be said for modern languages: that they are no more than a wafer thin barrier, or tiny individual prisons that restrict us from true expression. I attended the private view on Friday the 18th February to find out more.

Upon entering Pedestrian on the night of the private view, one was immediately met by ‘ROTATOR’, the latest light installation by DMU’s own southern belle, Kerry Jackson.

This piece, installed in a different format immediately after its appearance at CUSP gallery engaged viewers to consider the non-visual language of Braille in a completely visual format, combining monolithic sculpture with the calming whuur of six slide projectors to create a constantly repeating visual palindrome.

Continuing through the first room the exhibition. When one is met by Jonny Ryall’s ‘Public entering the room, Sculpture Vulture’, a piece born out I was met with of his daily sculptures, created from what appeared to be things that he finds on his way to the the aftermath of a studio. trap being sprung, It is spray painted in a crude wooden spikes bronze to mimic meaningless public protruding from sculpture, and the accompanying the floor between video shows the artist visually sandy tiles, with the attacking the public with the piece blood drenched word as they pass by. This along with ‘FATALITY’ running the mysterious bronze-coloured across the wall, silhouettes on the wall (shaped from reminiscent of video the outlines of worldwide public games like Mortal sculpture obtained from Google Kombat and Tomb Earth) question the relevance of public Raider. This hopes to sculpture, and why people accept these gauge the language offensive pieces of bronze and steel of success and failure, that have been thrown together for no and the traps that other reason than decoration. success from violence Continuing into the next room can spring. we are met by Dave Briggs’s ‘Future I expected nothing less from the Chapel’. A set up containing Vanilla Galleries lads; the exhibition photoshopped stained glass windows was poignant but a bit daft at the with the images of current and past same time, much like their furniture heroes. At the front is a slide show of show. A few pieces were a little seemingly random imagery copied disappointing for me, the wooden and pasted from the internet with the spikes weren’t really as ‘spiky’ as I incessant repetition of Guns n’ Roses’ would have imagined them, and Sweet Child of Mine. This chapel is the future chapel did seem a little not meant to offend the religious; it rushed, but it all had a sense of looks at the unnecessary idolisation of humour and because of that I can modern celebrities, and the god-like forgive them. status of people like Slash, whom It showed me that although many claim they would follow to the language creates barriers, we can still end of the Earth. The most interesting have fun with it at the same time, piece for me in this room however was and the possibilities of combining Gino Attwood’s mysterious idol on languages are limitless. the back wall, watching over those in the ‘Future Chapel’ with its seemingly Clockwise from top right: important triangular halo and skull "ROTATOR" by Kerry Jackson, face.

"Public Sculpture Vulture" by The last room was host to the Jonny Ryall, and the "Fatality" resident artist chosen especially for installtion.

16 | Tuesday 8 March 2011

Listings

What's on at DMU: Until May 16th 2nd Week: 14th-20th

1st Week: 8th-13th Tuesday 8th

Fairtrade Fortnight SU, 11 - 3pm Sample fair with stalls to make purses, along with bunting making.

There's also a bring and buy sale for First Step.

Wednesday 9th

Community Media & Arts Roadshow DMU Trinity House, 11-4pm An event to show how community media and arts are working together in your community.

Friday 11th

Escape and Evade 11th-12th March The whole aim of the challenge is to travel as far away as possible from Leicester or to a number of set locations without spending a single penny in 36 hours.

Follow the group’s adventures on DSU’s FB or Twitter.

Sheffield Sharks vs Leicester Riders EISS, Coleridge Rd, Sheffield

Saturday 12th

Thursday 17th

Zuben Launch Party At The Donkey, 7 - 1:30am (203 Welford Road) After party @ Sophbeck.

Fun filled night with live music, burlesque, moving human canvases, live visuals, belly dancing and podium performances.

Bands include Dead Slow, Free control, Mikey K / Dj Grant Decker

DMU GLEE Level 1, 6- 8pm The first show of the DSU Glee society.

anarchism, and also fiction and poetry.

The event was organised by Ross Bradshaw of Five Leaves Publications in Nottingham and the Creative Writing Team at De

Saturday 19th

States of Independence 2 Clephan Building 10.30am – 4.30pm For the second time, publishers, authors and poets fill the humanities building. There will be workshops, readings and book launches.

Sessions include sex and sensibility, States of Independence

Tickets £6, on door £8 www.zuben.co.uk.

3rd Week: 21st-27th Monday 21th

Varsity Time Support your sports team against Leicester University!

Football Varsity 6.30pm, Walkers Stadium Tickets are priced at just £5, while stocks last. Get them at the SU quickly before they run out!

Monday 22nd

Firebug Pop Quiz downstairs

Wednesday 23th

Thursday 24th

Basketball Varsity John Sandford Sports Centre Free entry.

The Leicester Riders will be playing their final home fixture after the clash with Leicester University - with a special ticket price of only £5.

Battle 4 Bloodstock Heat 2 Firebug, 7pm Free Entry Muleta Smiles + more to be comfired.

All complete in this years Battle 4 Bloodstock to get a spot at the Bloodstock Festival.

Climate Change Week Hugh Aston building.

De Montfort University will be organising a climate change fair with stalls, talks and other activities.

Friday 25th

Creative Garden Phoenix Square, 10-4pm.

A networking event and business exhibition from students, graduates, established companies and freelancers.

'OPEM' Open Exhibition February 5th - May 3rd Mon- Sun, 10am - 4pm Where: The Collection, Danes Terrace, Lincoln. LN21LP Group show including drawings by Sharon Sheingold, Fine Art Lecturer.

Saturday 26th

Dance Society Show Y Theatre, 7.30pm Tickets £4

Saturday 26th Sunday 27th

Leicester International Tattoo Convention The Audiorium, Leicester Market 11am-10pm (Sat)/5pm (Sun) £7 adv at Lucky 13 Tattoo's, Skin City and Rockaboom/£8 on the door Live bands, burlesque, competitons, DJ's and Tattooist from across the UK. Free afterparty (10pm-4am) with burlesque, live music and drinks offers

4th Week: 28th-3rd Tuesday 29th

Her Name is Calla, Peter Wyeth and Birds of Passage Firebug, 8pm With emotive lyrics, explosive noise and gentle harmonies, Her Name is Calla take over Firebug upstairs with support from Peter Wyeth and Birds of passage. Tickets £5

Wednesday 30th

THE BIG GAY NIGHT OUT! DSU 8-12pm then Helsinki Drinks £1.50 in Level 1 Tickets at: www.dmulgbt.co.uk In aid of The Broken Rainbow.

Rugby Varsity Welford Road Stadium, £5.

Saturday 2nd

Blood Shanti live concert & DANCE The Auditorium, Market Place, 9:30 One of the UK dub reggae scene’s biggest names: Blood Shanti, performing live for a night of pure quality dub vibes !

Beginning and End of Easter Break Friday April 8th

Footlights Time DSU Level 1, 7pm Entry: £2.50 A 'One Night Stand with Andy Schooledge' show as a 'farewell’.

See also a mix of new and old comedians and Chris Wells’ last time, too.

The money will help comedians go to a show at the Edinburgh Fringe during August!

Thursday May 5th

Talulah Blue's Burlesque Showcase The Musician, Clyde Street 7:30pm-1am Talulah Blue showcases new burlesque talent with more acts than ever.

Includes live entertainment, classic burlesque and authentic live music from Gypsy Jazz band The Gadjos.

Tickets: £5adv/£7 Dress Code: Rockabilly, 1940's, 1950's

Friday May 6th Sunday May 8th

Collate - Design Crafts Student Exhibition The Pedestrian Gallery (34-35 Rutland Street) 6th: 11-3pm 7-8th: 9.30-17.30pm See what the arts and design crafts second year students have been crafting this year. Sample the unique works of DMU students.

Sunday 3rd

Sinergy LARP Leicester Square, 170 Belgrave Gate, LE1 3XL 6:30pm-10:30pm Try out a cyber punk live action role play game. Check out www.sinergylarp. com for more information on how to play and character creation. £5 per

More at DSU Welfare Post Study Work sessions coming soon!

DSU's Welfare and Education Centre are running a series of information sessions on the Post Study Work scheme, which will be open to all international students and will give you a chance to find out about how to apply for immigration

Tuesday 8 March 2011 | 7

Politics

No re-election for Aaron Porter With the departure of Porter, what must the NUS do?

Jamie Smith

At a time when students were proudly fighting back, engaged in instances of direct action across the country, the head of the National Union of Students, Aaron Porter, was pointing the finger of uselessness and saying “bad Liberal Democrats. We will have a candle lit vigil at Embankment to show our disapproval. That’ll show you!”

Student Unions everywhere joined in weakly saying we will not stand for it, and fighting back with a placard. A vacuum of inspiration haunts the opposition to the Tory controlled Government and its Libertarian agenda. It is as if a thousand Ed Miliband’s have become the head of every Students' Union in the country.

Much of the student movement in 2010, leading up to the rushed tuition fees vote, was organised entirely independently. Porter was not at the head, as an NUS leader should be. So with this in mind, what is next for the NUS? The NUS now has a chance to reinvent itself. It should not be a centrist institution. Its rhetoric should be powerful, inspirational, innovative and very radical. The NUS under Porter tried to play reasonable politics, with an unreasonable and largely

Aaron Porter protesting in London

unethical political system. The NUS conference kept voting down calls for National Student demonstrations in 2009 against proposed cuts, and they opposed strikes by University staff.

They didn’t want to rock the boat.

They wanted to be taken seriously by a political system, that only takes seriously people with a large amount of wealth.

It has been quite a linear progression to get to this stage politically. The Labour Party did nothing to reverse

the Tory led financial deregulation and weak oversight of that particular sector. In fact, they deregulated further. It is this dependency on deregulated markets that caused the mess we are now in; not the public sector.

The public-face of private interests were spending their time ensuring that anyone who did not buy this new era of easy credit driven economics and financially controlled politics (modernising, as it is known), was simply “old Labour”, “out of touch”,

“in the pockets of the unions”. The rhetoric worked. We all bought into it. Suddenly, Unions who represent thousands of ordinary people, attempting to secure better terms for their workers are considered a great evil, and Financial Sector bosses who represent about three people in yachts with their money in an account in Monaco, are considered great saviours.

During the BA Cabin Crew strike, the media constantly portrayed the strikers as greedy. Constantly. Nobody once mentioned that the BA CEO Willie Walsh had recently been handed the biggest fine in Aviation history for price fixing. It is a constructed narrative. The scale has been very carefully tipped in the direction of big business and the financial sector.

Not wanting to be left behind, the NUS followed suit. They tried to offer the idea of a graduate tax instead of tuition fee hikes. Why? Surely the NUS should be trying to protect its members, not encouraging the idea that such measures are necessary.

Their rhetoric appeared to be far more Centrist than ever before. They were not challenging the dominance of a certain elite faction. They weren’t the radical voice that this country quite desperately needed.

They became part of the problem,

by giving credit to the idea that public sector cuts were necessary, even though many academics and economists (including Nobel Prize winning economist Joseph Stiglitz) consistently argued otherwise. The NUS cannot be giving credit to such harsh neoliberal cuts, without becoming part of that narrow neoliberal spectrum. Porter, instead of giving credit to that rhetoric, should have been challenging it at every opportunity.

I hope that with Porter’s resignation we can have a NUS that will now be able to channel the discontent and the anger felt across the country, toward these unnecessary cuts. I hope the NUS will be willing to join hands with the Unions, UK Uncut, Coalition against the Cuts, with everyone who stands to lose their livelihoods for the sake of offshore tax cuts. The Tories boast constantly about how Thatcher managed to slay the dragon of Socialism. With the backing of the NUS, let’s hope we can slay the dragon of neoliberalism.

Got an opinion? Email your thoughts to Politics Editor Brett — brett_ leppard@hotmail.co.uk

A tricky customer: Labour's Alastair Campbell A review of Alastiar Campbell's recent visit to DMU or not privy to information about the event (although I cannot see how), it was quite a night the Politics Liar, spin doctor, dossier-sexerSociety had organised. A total of 235 upper, electioneer, sensationalist, in attendance, all ready to listen and Scottish. All words I would use question the former Labour Party spin to describe Alastair Campbell. doctor.

Friendly, open, funny, biased, Pejorative titles aside, the man of interesting, born in Yorkshire the hour had much to say and was but definitely Scottish. All words oddly enthusiastic when it came to I would use in addition to the taking questions from the audience of previous, having heard Campbell students and illustrious lecturers. The speak at De Montfort University. level of persuasiveness and conviction For those of you unable to attend, with which Campbell spoke was almost perverse. This Alastair Campbell, career snapshot: was most true on the subject Cambridge Graduate (1979) of the Iraq Daily Mirror Journalist (1982) War. It was Daily Mirror Political Editor (Late 80s) surprising how Press Secretary to Tony Blair (1994 – July 2000) little Campbell Director of Communications and Strategy to Tony was probed Blair (July 2000 - August 2003) on this issue, especially given Brett Leppard Politics Editor

his prominent role with ‘selling’ it to the House of Commons and the electorate.

Maybe the audience knew it was not his decision, maybe they did not care, or maybe people have given up on wanting to know what happened.

On reflection, Campbell did not have much of a challenge on his hands; he has not publicly worked for the Labour Party for some years and he was not an elected member of government.

Perhaps my own thoughts about Campbell distorted my expectations of the audience’s attitude. There were no fierce or difficult questions, nor was there any visible opposition to what Campbell was saying, not that this was fantastically surprising.

Campbell’s skill is in controlling and presenting information and making it convincing, I’m sure an audience full of students and lecturers (many of whom did not ask questions

Alastair Campbell at De Montfort University

due to the student nature of the event) is child’s play.

The evening concluded with the sporadic taking of a smorgasbord of questions from the audience, then proceeding to answer them in quick succession. A rather impressive

Photo: Jack Siddons

display, no doubt influenced by the possible sales to be made (albeit discounted) just outside the lecture theatre.

I wonder how much a signed copy of Campbell’s new book is worth on eBay? Maybe Cherie will know...

8 | Tuesday 8 March 2011

Sport

Varsity 2011­— Your men's rugby team Ian Jones

2010/2011 season has been a very mixed season for DMU Mens Rugby.

Following a very successful season on the pitch in which the 1st team were promoted to their highest ever

league; this was immediately followed by the loss of several big players in key positions. This led to a difficult start to the season and a massive ‘wake up call’ with us sitting bottom of the league.

It took until Christmas to really bond as a team, and after the break

the team really gelled with several nights drinking in Liquid and local swimming sessions.

The first years came into their own and the confidence shone through, this showed on the pitch with some results going to the wire with several close heated games, including a match

against the old enemies Leicester University, which they won in the last minute.

This year’s Varsity will be the biggest I have ever played in, with our season being very much focused around the showcase event.

We have a record number of

players this year, meaning that the competition for places has been higher than ever, and I think this will show on the day, with a very passionate group of individuals.

I will be so proud to lead the boys out on what will be the biggest day in many of their sporting lives.

Adam Frost

Robin Ajder

Scott Evans

Ali Hall

Pos: Flyhalf Fact: Still studying his first year after failing law, has moved to media production

Pos: Prop Fact: Is connected with the Serbian Mafia

Pos: Hooker Fact: Hasn't washed any clothes in 2011

Pos: Prop Fact: Used to play centre

Alex Collard

Ross Owen

"Nathan"

Ben Monsey

Pos: Hooker Fact: Has been mistaken for Rupert Grint

Pos: Second Row Fact: Once spent £99 on Jagerbombs

Pos: Second Row Fact: Favourite food is Dolphin

Pos: Back Row Fact: Studies Circus Maagement

Ian Jones

David Judge

Tom Ward

Pos: Utility Fact: Quoted as having the best pass at DMU

Pos: Wing Fact: Once stole a baby

Pos: Inside Centre Fact: Is rumoured to be the most socially linked man in Leicester

James Litchfield Pos: Back Row Fact: Is fluent in six languages

Ronald Kamanje Pos: Prop Fact: Has an alleged bench press one rep max of 159kg

Joe Watkins

Deepesh Dalal

Leighton Clarke

Pos: Wing Fact: Represented Wales in the Under 12's Croquet championship of

Pos: Fullback Fact: Favourite saying is 'are you high?'

Pos: Wing Fact: Once spent seven hours doing his hair

James Moorcroft Pos: Back Row Fact: Is fully qualified in Indian head massage Chris Durkin

Niall Fredrick

Pos: Fullback Fact: Once stood on a hamster, RIP 'Jeff-Jeff'

Pos: Wing Fact: Does sit-ups for two to three hours a day

James Moorey

Will Barber

Pos: Scrum Half Fact: Claims to be able to control the weather with his mind

Pos: Scrum Half Fact: Is hugely passionate about chess and has competed at national level

Martin Dumbill Pos: Centre Fact: Starred in the kids TV show 'Recess'

Sports teams from DMU and UoL will fight for the right to hold aloft the coveted Varsity Winners trophy, this year kindly supplied by The Mansion Group, owners of Benjamin Russell Court Halls of residence on the DMU Campus.

Tuesday 8 March 2011 | 9

Sport

Varsity 2011­— Meet women’s rugby Charlie Braund (SAC) Course: Fine Art Year 2 From: Huntingdon Position: Second Row

Kerry Ferdinando Course: Law Year 2 From: Great Watering Position: Wing

Charlotte Bailey (Bailey) Course: Footwear Design Year 3 From: Middlesbrough Position: Second Row

Lowri Cunnah (Lan) Course: Fashion Technology Year 4 From: Wales Position: Number 8

Lauren Fitzpatrick Course: LLB Law Year 2 From: Flitton Position: Fly Half

Abi Mullin Course: Media Production Year 2 From: Birmingham Position: Centre

Charlotte Russell Course: Contour Fashion Year 3 From: Manchester Position: Centre

Clare Munro Course: Adult Nursing Year 1 From: Nuneaton Position: Second Row

Kayleigh Bernard Course: Business and Globalisation Year 1 From: Wolverhampton Position: Wing

Samantha BallShead Course: Law and Accounts Year 1 From: Yeovil Position: Wing

Jade Tipper Course: LTP Year 4 From: Luton Position: Prop

Amy Sturrock (Sturrock) Course: Forensic Science Position: Prop

Alicia Harding Course: Media and Marketing Year 1 From: Leicester Position: Flanker

Becky Lawlor Course: Law and Psychology Year 1 From: Poole Position: Prop

Amy Leverick Course: Art Foundation Year 1 From: Surrey Position: Wing

“JJ”

Claire Broad Course: Biomedical Science Year 2 From: Kent Position: Scrum Half

Charlotte Fell Course: English and History Year 1 From: Burton-on-trent Position: Second Row Ellis Woodley Course: Psychology with education Year 1 From: Middlesex Position: Wing

Hayley Armstrong

Francesca Sadio Course: Media Year 1 From: Birmingham Position: Flanker

Ionie Ince Course: Drama and creative writing Year 3 From: Liverpool Position: Flanker

Lucy Monaghan Course: LPC Year postgraduate From: Sheffield Position: Prop

Sara Drury Course: Design Crafts Year1 From: Coventr Position: Flanker

Jazz Heard Course: Biomedical Science Year 1 From: Somerset Position: Hooker

Rachel Wedgewood Course: Learning Disabilities Nursing Year 2 From: Cumbria Position: Centre

10 | Tuesday 8 March 2011

Sport Varsity 2011— Your men's football team Kole Ogundipe

The team that will represent DMU at Varsity has so far produced some fantastic performances in the British Universities League.

The best performance of the year so far came with a 6-2 demolition of Derby 1st XI. The DMU team is made up of a group of technically gifted players from defence to attack.

The team over the course of the season has become a tight-knit group

with plenty of banter flying round the changing room. The closeness is reflected on the pitch where the team have been able to overcome going down 2-0 at half time against Lincoln 2nd XI to win 3-2 and go top of the league.

Ross Thacker Having played for Oldham Athletic (apparently), this winger has taken to leaving opposition full backs on their back sides with his 'silly' step overs.

A spitting image of 'teabag' from prison break, this pigeon chested fresher will be hoping to score his first goal for DMU at the Walkers.

While the DMU team have been unsuccessful against Leicester University in the league, Varsity is a different sort of game completely and this will play into the hands of DMU. DMU will look to control the game in the middle of field and look

Michael Reeves Looks exactly like Mario Balotelli, this self proclaimed 'big dog' is more than capable of winning a match on his own. Once shouted in a match whilst skinning a player... I'm jogging!!

I have absolutely no idea how this man has a cheese grater 8 pack. This solid centre back is an important part of the back four. Loves stealing O’grady's newspaper before every match before he's even read it!

Kole Ogundipe Cool, calm and collected as a manager and player and also this season’s top scorer. He'll be looking to win his 3rd varsity in a row. Although he once left his team stranded in Derby to go home with his other half after a match.

Lewis Hearne One of the star men in last year’s Varsity, Lewis the undisputed number 1 keeper at the University. He brings a calming influence to the back four. Will provide lots of saves for your camera if given the opportunity.

Frost Khalifa "Frosty" Does a silly celebration when he scores, although he has scored quite a few this season. He can do an Obafemi Martins back flip for his celebration at varsity for all I care, as long as he scores.

Curtis Watts Captain Curtis, famous for his stuttering in his pre match huddles. Constantly promoting his 50 yards cross field passes.

Man of the match last year, can he repeat the same feat this year?

The confident centre half will undoubtedly claim he will.

Damo Irons Another local lad who has deservedly worked his way up from the seconds to the first team, a devoted player with a sweet left foot. He'll will be looking to leave his mark at this year’s varsity.

Sid Mohammed Unfortunately there won't be any mud baths for Sid to jump in at the Walkers Stadium, bad for him as he loves to get dirty.

Works incredibly hard for the team, and is probably one of the most improved players this

Michael O'Grady The new ‘Ed Sanders’. Very committed full back will be looking to leave his mark in this year’s Varsity.

JT

Jake Smith One of the more creative players in the team, less can be said for his dress sense. This plan b lookalike will be looking to take the game by the scruff of the neck like he did last year. Thinks he's a master with the chicks.... Stick to football Jakey.

to take advantage of the pacey wing players on the large Walkers Stadium Pitch. The more passionate support of DMU will spur the boys on to victory on March 21st and continue DMU’s dominance over Leicester at the Football Varsity matches.

Michael Johnson One word...

Whipped. MJ is one of the most committed players for DMU both on and off the pitch, he will be ready if his chance comes.

CJ Lahm On the pitch he has fitted into being a mature full back and has had some exceptional performances this season. His trade mark is his ferocious slide tackles. Glad he is on our team! Wins all the headers even though he's about 5 foot 3.

Yinka Lawal This fresher turned up to trails in a bright blue kit and bright pink boots (big time..

What?). On the way to away matches, he for some reason pretends to speak to someone on the phone for the whole journey. Very tricky striker, could easily get a couple goals at the Walkers.

Jack Greenwood He too like others have worked his way up to the 1st team having come from the 2nds, there is no doubt that he is a quality left back who won't be fazed by an opposition attacker come Varsity.

Nathan Jackson Naturally very good on the ball, a creative midfielder. This Leicester local always turns up wearing a silly little hat which is not surprising as he probably hangs around Jake smith too much.

Tuesday 8 March 2011 | 11

Sport

Varsity 2011— Meet women’s football Amy ‘Wozza’ Warren (Vice Captain / Secretary) Assertive and vocal right back who puts her ‘Hart’ into every minute of the game.

Her dedication and ability make her impossible to break.

Chan Patel A tough defender whose aggressive style of attack and banter with opposition beats them every time. She will be glad when the drinking ban is over.

Jessica Newman (Captain) Hard working left back who will never give up on the opposition.

Blossoming leader and veteran of the team.

Eva O’Connor Natural, persistent striker with an exceptional eye for goal. Always strives to “be the best”.

Kate Greenfield (Treasurer) Relentless midfielder with a great head on her shoulders. Never stops moving and pressurising the opposition.

Laura Winstanley A blessing from Birmingham; a strong, all round threat who reads the game with great insight.

Lydia Rickards (Chairwoman) Solid in a challenge on the right wing and never quits.

Her slow motion ‘Baywatch lifeguard’ run will mesmerize the opposition.

Having waved goodbye to many of our key players last year, as they left to accomplish dazzling careers, we thought this season may be tough for DMU WFC. However we were lucky to recruit a number of girls with astonishing ability and an excellent commitment to the team.

There have been highs and lows throughout the season, with a few disappointing results at the beginning; but this only made us more

determined to grab the points.

As we became more cohesive as a team, we managed 3-3 in a gripping draw against Warwick University and then an amazing performance from everyone that captured an 8-0 win against the University of Nottingham’s 3rd team.

Once we’d bonded as a team and structured our positioning, it was great to see excellent ball skills and perseverance being shown on the field.

Excellent wingers, ‘Darling’ and ‘Cobra’ have made some outstanding

Laura Darling Left sided arsenal of the team and first class free kick taker. Quick player who always means business.

Laura Phillips DMU’s very own devil of a goalkeeper, who constantly boomerangs back. Never inhibited by height, her presence in the net gives confidence to the defence.

Megan ‘Cobra’ Copeman Speedy and skilful goal scorer with real talent; when she’s not throwing her dinner up down the right wing.

Megan Harrison A great communicator and stunning defender capable of nail biting tackles; a real asset to the team.

Tash Merrifield Animated forward with natural flair and great technique.

Confidence on the ball makes her the main goal threat

Lydia Rickards

Kacie Hanger A vibrant personality on and off the pitch, whose smile boosts morale no matter what.

Committed to the tackle and always

Joy Paton Greatest adaptable weapon to be exported from Switzerland since the

KC ‘T-Bag’ Philpott Hot-headed midfielder with undeniable passion and energy. Ruthless attacking will give any competitor a tough battle.

Emma Wyper Silent but deadly. Midfield powerhouse engineered from fortified steel.

Ellie Banks Quick blonde bullet of a defender who always puts on an Oscar winning performance.

crosses and corners throughout the season, and are certain to showcase these on the big day.

Talents like these would never have been noticed if it wasn’t for our amazing coach Graham. We were a very different group at the start of the season, but he took the challenge in his stride. He has shown us how to combine everyone’s strengths to build a great team. For this, and a whole lot more – Thank you Graham.

Stricken by injury, some of our most nearest and dearest players have been in and out throughout the

season. Nonetheless I am happy to say the Freshers that took their place have shown commitment, enthusiasm and willpower to succeed for the team.

Due to this, it has been difficult to choose the final squad. With so many promising upcoming players offering so much talent and dedication to the team, in all the four years I’ve been at DMU I honestly believe this year sees one of the best squads we’ve ever had.

For the last couple of years we have been defeated by Leicester University, therefore we are more

determined than ever to win this time round. We may be going out there as the underdogs but we will prove to everyone that we are much more than that.

We have the pace, the skills, and the stamina to show that we’re better than Leicester University. We have a point to prove; league tables mean nothing when this battle comes into play. We will walk into the pitch at the Walkers stadium with pride and I have the uttermost confidence that we will win this year with the amazing talent we have. GO DMU!!!

12 | Tuesday 8 March 2011

Sport

DMU out for revenge at Varsity Ian Cockerill Sports Editor

March can only mean one thing at DMU… Varsity. And we’re out to regain some pride after being overrun by the old enemy last year.

2010 saw DMU suffer one of the worst beatings in the history Varsity, only the Men’s football snatching a last minute winner at the Walkers Stadium stopped Leicester Uni from sweeping the day, and taking bragging rights.

But with the annual turnover of players leaving and arriving at all teams, last year means nothing. 2011 is the year to retake the Varsity honours.

Football and Rugby will once again dominate Varsity, taking place at the Walkers Stadium and Welford Road respectively. The men will be looking to win once again, while the women will be out for revenge after last years defeat.

The rugby men disappointed last year, but will remember the heroic effort of the 2009 Varsity team, winning the match right at the death.

They will be up against it though, as Leicester have won both of their games this season.

But it’s not all about the football and rugby. The basketball team have an excellent chance of victory, and with strong sides in hockey, netball

and badminton, DMU are on course to offer stubborn resistance against ‘that lot.’ So if you are free on the 30th March, get yourself down to the John Sanford Sports Centre, where you'll find Varsity matches going on all day.

Check out the final Demon of the year after Easter, which will have match reports, pictures and reaction from the Varsity day.

Battle: Both uni's will want the Varsity spoils

Photo: Sophie Lewis

Men's football defeated by bitter rivals As Varsity approaches, DMU men prepare their big match in the worst possible way. Matt Stott reports DMU hope it’s third time’s a charm at Varsity after Leicester Uni completed a league double over the reds with a 2-0 win at Stoughton Road last month.

Strikes in the first and last minutes gave the green half of Leicester a rather fortuitous victory as DMU wasted a host of chances to redress the balance of power and provide a foothold for the Walkers warfare.

Since the 6-2 demolishment of Derby’s firsts, DMU defeated their seconds 2-1 away and Lincoln’s seconds seemingly had three points secured when 2-0 up at half-time with home advantage, only for DMU to battle hard to overturn the scoreline and record a 3-2 success.

This marriage of unmerciful mastery with strong-willed resistance will be key come March 21, when DMU look to retain their Varsity crown again.

Leicester, who have yielded the last two Varsities, hoped to make it two in a row over DMU and climb to the top of the league after already dispatching them 2-0 in November.

And they got their noses in front as a fizzed-in corner was inadvertently deflected in off a green-vested chest.

It was a serendipitous start for the hosts in sodden conditions, who had begun the brightest after the match was hastily re-arranged to their stamping-ground from a waterlogged Victoria Park.

The Varsity dress rehearsal ebbed and flowed thereafter. Both sides struck the woodwork and forward Yinka frittered away DMU’s best sight of goal when firing over from six yards in the 74th minute.

A Leicester striker cruised through DMU’s weary defence in the dying

embers of an enjoyable game, rounding the keeper and giving his supporters every right to be confident of making it a treble of derby wins this season in two weeks.

Player-manager Kole Ogundipe was left to rue rushing headlong into proceedings, but insists DMU have what it takes to lift the Varsity trophy once more.

He said: “I wasn’t pleased today. You can’t really compare our performance to how we have played in the last three weeks. Leicester Uni are no better than the teams we have beaten at all. But unfortunately it didn’t come together today.

“The bad start was due to the preparation. We arrived here late because of a late bus and didn’t have time to warm-up and they took advantage of that Photo: Sophie Lewis Flexible: DMU ‘keeper Lewis Hearne keeps the ball out as DMU go down 2-0. and got a really sloppy goal. I was really disappointed with that.

“Heads went down at half-time a have stumbled in the league but we a bit more technical ability but they There’s a stage for them if they want little bit. We tried to apply pressure have to keep going and see how high just worked us hard, didn’t give us it.” but your heads go down even more we can finish,” said Kole. any time on the ball and their way So lucky number three it is then. when you can’t put the ball in the “Now we are relying on Leicester prevailed this time.

In 2009 it was penalties. back of the net.

Uni to slip up but we still have six “At the Walkers they are going to Last year, it took an injury-time “But if you don’t take your chances points to fight for and see where we have to work harder to close us down winning goal to settle matters. then that will always be the result at finish. as we are going to have more space.

This year, DMU may need more the end of the day.”

“We are disappointed with the The balls out wide and in behind the than a dosage of luck to keep that red DMU started the day at the result but we have got Varsity to really full-backs were not really on today.” flag flying high over Leicestershire. summit of the BUCS Men’s 3B go for it.”

Will there be any changes for the Can we finally beat Leicester in division two points clear of Leicester General consensus has it that a Varsity match? what will be our third encounter this after three impressive wins washed larger pitch with more quality and “Yes,” believes Kole. “I will have to season after losing the other two? Can away memories of cup anguish. zip, such as Leicester City’s Walkers think about it tactically especially, but we make it three Varsities in a row?

It was an opportunity to go five Stadium, will accommodate DMU’s there will definitely be tactical changes There is only one way to find out. points ahead with two left to play style of play, allowing them to made for that. Personnel wise, it will (three for Leicester), but nonetheless, showcase their superiority in the be up to the lads to prove their place it has been an encouraging campaign. technical department. in training. I’ve gone with the 11 that INSIDE: Player profiles and previews for the big Varsity “We still won three on the bounce Kole said: “They are a team that have impressed me most this season. matches. so we must not forget about that. We just relies on hard work. We have got “But it is up to everyone else now.