Issue 1470

Grief: it gets better, I promise

Live Review: Pearly Gates

Students as Partners forum: gown meets town to support our communities

Charlotte Atkinson - Film Sub-Editor

A look into how cross city collaboration is boosting the Newcastle community for students and locals...

Newcastle upon Tyne boasts an incredible student community – with over 65,000 individuals from all corners of the globe studying at Northumbria and Newcastle Universities, students are integral to the social and economic workings of modern-day Newcastle. The universities themselves are some of the largest employers in the citywith over 10,000 members of staff between them, these institutions are undisputed pillars of the city. In order to support this community, the student unions of Newcastle University and Northumbria University, alongside Newcastle College and Newcastle City Council have joined forces to launch the Students as Partners forum.

The student-led group are working with Newcastle City Council to secure the efficient delivery of public services to the city’s vast student population – from housing to mental health services, Students as Partners are striving to ensure that Newcastle is a welcoming place for students past and present, as well as those who already reside here. President of Newcastle University Students Union Ilsa Hartley commented that “Whether our students were born and brought up in Newcastle or have made it their home while they study, the city is an integral part of their university experience. Similarly, they are an integral part of the city bringing a diversity of culture, contributing to the local economy, sharing their employability skills and volunteering with community projects.”

The Students as Partners forum operates as part of the Collaborative Newcastle Universities Agreement (CNUA), a partnership that came together in 2021 with the view of enhancing the student experience while supporting the local community. With their project the IntoNewcastle East centre in Walker launching the same year, the collaboration has continued to be a fruitful one, as the

team remain committed to their goal of improving social mobility and regional skills development within the city. As Jane Robinson, Pro-ViceChancellor Engagement and Place at Newcastle University, stated, “we want students to be valued members of the communities they live in, in this way we’ll not only increase the likelihood of them continuing to live in the city after they’ve graduated but also promote improved community cohesion”.

“the city is an integral part of their university experience.”

Students as Partners focuses on three of the key areas of student life – housing, community, and student mental health services. As any student past or present knows, these facets of living in your university city are vital, requiring care and attention in order to ensure that both Newcastle residents and students are able to access the support they need. Commenting on the work of the forum, Jane Robinson highlighted how Students as Partners is “encouraging mutual respect between students and

permanent residents”, and how this is beneficial to all involved. Taking these factors into account, the work of Students as Partners “is building on – and complementing - long running initiatives” including ‘Leave Newcastle Happy’ and ‘Best Neighbour on Campus’. Considering the majority of the student population is concentrated in the districts of Heaton, Jesmond and Sandyford, animosity could develop between residents and their student counterparts. However, these initiatives aim to foster more positive community relationships, while highlighting the many benefits of diversity within the areas.

Commenting on potential friction between residents, Jane Robinson emphasised that “these areas are already represented at the Community Unity group meetings between the two universities and their Student Unions, Newcastle City Council and Northumbria Police. Operation Oak, which is jointly funded by the two universities and aims to promote positive community relations as well as offering crime prevention advice, is a key part of this. The Students as Partners forum will complement this by ensuring there are clear routes for students and residents to

raise concerns or make suggestions.”

One of the longer running initiatives ‘Leave Newcastle Happy’ aims to reduce waste generated by students moving out of properties across the city. To prevent fly-tipping, the universities are working together with Newcastle City Council to provide free skips around the most densely populated student areas. With the aim to promote care for the community, the initiative encourages recycling and donating of unwanted items as a way to “leave Newcastle happy!”.

“they constitute a key part of this city.”

In the same vein, “Best Neighbour on Campus” (BNOC) recognises students that go an extra mile to support their community, whether through volunteering or keeping a watchful eye over their neighbours. The judging panel for this award is comprised of local residents, councillors and representatives from both universities, and prizes of up to £250 can be won for services to the community. In 2019, a group of 50 students organised an alternative trick or treat event, visiting

houses in Jesmond and Heaton asking for food donations for the Newcastle Food Bank, an activity that both helped the local community and won them Best Neighbour on Campus. Students as Partners strive to highlight the wide variety of benefits that students can bring to their respective areas. As many students require part time jobs, the influx of students to various areas of the city brings economic as well as community benefits. As Jane Robinson stated, “we’re proud that so many of our students choose to work in the City - it’s a fantastic way for them to build experience, confidence, and local connections that enrich both their studies and their lives. When students work in local businesses, cafés, creative industries, and charities, they bring energy, fresh ideas, and skills that benefit everyone. At the same time, they gain valuable insight into the City’s character and culture. By highlighting these shared benefits, we hope to create even closer relationships between students and residents, recognising that together they make the City a more vibrant and welcoming place for all.” It is initiatives such as these, and collaborations such as Students as Partners that will light the way for a more inclusive and beneficial studentresident community within Newcastle. Jane Robinson’s passion for the forum shines through, as she emphasises “students bring huge cultural diversity and vibrancy to our city and have a positive social and economic impact though the volunteering activities that many students take part in and through the associated visitor economy from friends and family visiting”. Students famously sport a bad reputation – they’re young, full of excitement and vigour for life, while apparently caring little for the mess, noise or lasting effect they leave on residential communities across the country. However, they constitute a key part of this city, regardless of whether they have lived here for a decade or a day. By supporting students through a time that can be fraught with complications, Students as Partners can successfully fulfil the needs of both residents and students, helping the two groups to find community with each other. As our very own NUSU president states, “through this forum we can collectively shine a light on the positive contribution that students make to the city. We look forward to deepening our relationship with our key partners, to ensure our city remains a vibrant and inclusive place for all.

A note from the Editor...

It’s me again!

I hope everyone is well and resting up for Reading Week. It feels like the first half of the semester has absolutely flown by, but equally a week off for the Editorial Team is much needed. The past few weeks have been chaotic, but I couldn’t be prouder of everything they have achieved. Every single person has put in so much hard work, time, and heart into this edition, and it really shows.

As Reading Week rolls around, I hope you all take the chance to rest, recharge, and maybe even catch up on that ever-growing reading list. Now, onto some very exciting

news, we’ve officially elected our new NUTV Station Manager for the 2025/26 academic year! A huge congratulations to Grace, who has already been such an incredible addition to our team. Her enthusiasm, creativity, and drive have been a real inspiration, and I can’t wait to see what she brings to the role in the year ahead. We’ve got some exciting projects in the pipeline, and I’m looking forward to hitting the ground running and sharing all of it with you soon.

Onto NSR, show sign-ups for this semester have now closed, and what a line-up we’ve got! The schedule is absolutely packed with fantastic shows, covering everything from indie music to late-night chat and

Article Highlights:

Current Affairs |

A beacon of hope for green sea turtles as conservation efforts push back to remove endangered status

By Adeena Aflah|

Page 8

Life & Style |

North East nostalgia: what it means to grow up in Newcastle

By Kate Starrock | Page 17

Culture |

Halloween classic Psycho comes slashing back to Ballroom24 student cinema

By Roan Stripp | Page 28

Sports |

A club in crisis: Pools sack Grayson after just fifteen games in charge

By James Morley | Page 34

On Air On Campus

Meet the 25/26 Station Manager for Newcastle University Television

By Megan Grimston | Page 10

Hi everyone! My name is Gabbi, and I have the absolute pleasure of being your Student media Officer and Editor-In-Chief this year. Over the summer, I’ve been working hard behind the scenes alongside the Editorial team and NUSU to bring you this Freshers’ issue. Not only will you find loads of incredible articles written by our fantastic sub-editors, you’ll also find a one-stop guide to Freshers’ week, including an introduction to the Freshers’ week assistants who have put together an amazing programme of daytime activities for you all.

everything in between. You can tune in via the link on NSR’s Instagram, so make sure to give it a listen and support your fellow students’ creative work.

As we head into the second half of the semester, I am personally really looking forward to enjoying the colder months and making the most of all the fun and cozy activities. Whether you’re diving into projects, catching up with loved ones, or simply taking it slow, I hope this time brings a bit of calm and a lot of joy. Thank you, as always, for reading and for supporting everything we do. Here’s to a restful Reading Week and an exciting few months ahead!

Freshers’ week is a time to get to know more about Newcastle University, but also the city

Want to get involved? Come see us!

Wednesday, November 12 1.30-2.30pm Bamburgh Room

THE COURIER SECTIONS

Editor

Libby Griffiths l.griffiths9@newcastle.ac.uk

Social Media

Trinity Eadie t.eadie2@newcastle.ac.uk

Current Affairs

Heads of Current Affairs

Oscar Jenkins o.jenkins1@newcastle.ac.uk

Jess Mooney j.mooney2@newcastle.ac.uk

News

Phillipp Andreewitch

Ben Moore

Katy Woods

Campus Comment

Callum Borkowski

Scarlett Palmer

Opinion

Scarlet Davies

Sophie Psaila

Emma Stephenson

Science

Charlotte Chantler

Sapphire Ling

Life & Style

Deputy Editors

Adam Lovegrove

a.lovegrove2@newcastle.ac.uk

Dylan Seymour d.seymour1@newcastle.ac.uk

Heads of Life & Style

Charlotte Burley-Hnat c.burley-hnat2@newcastle.ac.uk

Ruby Tiplady r.tiplady2@newcastle.ac.uk

Relationships

Elin Auld

Ursula Monro

Blind date and Agony Aunt: Charley Dobson

Lifestyle

Erin Neal

Izzy Whitley

Fashion & Beauty

Ella Saint

Mia Wijayatilleke

Travel

Tilly Aveyard

Sophie Jarvis

Food & Drink

Rowanne Holmes

Ruby Tinkler

Culture

Heads of Culture

Keira Gratton

k.e.gratton2@newcastle.ac.uk

Amy Mescus a.mescus1@newcastle.ac.uk

Music

Emma Monaghan

Milly Thompson

TV

Maddy Kendall

Kate Kennedy

Film

Charlotte Atkinson

Zoe Lett

Alex Paine

Gaming

Emily-Maisy

Milburn

Keyon Snoek

Arts

Phoebe Clark

Imogen Hayes

Puzzles

Raven Orteza

Sport

Senior editor:

Noelia Fernandez Perez

n.fernandez-perez2@newcastle.ac.uk

Libby

Newcastle University moves up in The Times HE Rankings

Alex Paine - Film Sub-Editor

Newcastle University has climbed up 13 places to 144th in the World.

Times Higher Education has published its annual ranking of universities worldwide, with the findings based on five key areas: teaching, research environment, research quality, international outlook, and industry.

After coming in at 139th in the 2023 ranking, the university slipped to 168th the following year, before climbing back up to 157th in 2025. This is Newcastle University’s highest place in the ranking since 2023, placing 144th overall out of 2,191 institutions from 115 countries and territories, which places it in the top 20 for universities in the UK.

Vice-Chancellor and President of Newcastle University, Professor Chris Day, has spoken positively about the university’s placement in the ranking, saying

“I am extremely proud of the hard work and dedication of our University colleagues, our students and partners which this result reflects.”

As for the university’s ranking in each key area, the figures paint many different pictures.

Newcastle University scored very highly in the categories of Research Quality and International Outlook, with scores of 93 and 89.5 out of 100 respectively. Its high score in research quality in particular ranks it 65th for research globally, and one of the highest scores in research for a university in the UK. The university has also maintained its high score in Industry, after it received a major boost over the last couple of years to end up ranking 5th for Industry in the UK. Where the university scored lower is in the categories of Teaching and Research

Newcastle in the top 30 of UK universities for both categories, there is no denying that the numbers are somewhat lacklustre when compared to the university’s performance in other categories. With that said, they are still the university’s highest figures in those categories within the last ten years.

“...the numbers suggest that the institution is one of the top universities in the world for research”

Overall, Newcastle University performed very strongly in the Times rankings, and the numbers suggest that the institution is one of the top universities in the world for research on the international stage. Oxford remains the highest-ranking university in the world for the tenth year running, with Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Yale, Harvard and Princeton being the best-performing universities in the United States.

A-Level English required for UK migrants

Migrants coming to the UK will be required to pass an A-level English language equivalent of speaking, writing and listening requirements, based on a law recently passed by the Parliament on the 14th of October.

This presents new rules as part of the government’s plans to tackle immigration, which will affect those applying for skilled worker or scaleup visas, as well as some graduates. The prime minister has previously stated that the changes outlined would make the UK’s immigration system “controlled” and “selective”.

Home Office Minister Mike Tapp has confirmed that further English language requirements to be introduced to the visa application process in due course. This presents a stark change in how accessible migration to the UK will be, with the Home office estimating that up to 100,000 fewer people will enter the UK as a result.

However, the has change sparked controversy. “Many people in the UK” would not “be able to pass English A-level” remarked Afsana Akhtar, an immigration lawyer who opposes the changes. Previously, the requirement was migrants had a B1 level of English, akin to a GCSE. The step up to B2 will undoubtedly make it more difficult for prospective immigrants.

Government bans multibuy offers in UK supermarkets

On the 1st of October, the UK government banned multibuy offers, such as ‘Buy One Get One Free’, on unhealthy foods.

Large supermarkets and online retailers alike will be affected by this change. However, small businesses will not have to adhere to the modified legislation.

This new regulation will also see a ban on unlimited refills of sugary drinks in restaurants and cafes. Drinks included in the ban are classic Coca Cola, hot chocolate, and mocha coffees.

“They cite their main motivation for the ban to be to tackle obesity...”

The government have been considering this move for a few years now but claim the delay

in action was due to the costof-living crisis. They cite their main motivation for the ban to be to tackle obesity – particularly childhood obesity. Alongside the ban of in-store promotions, the government plans to move the advertisement of unhealthy food and drink on TV until after the 9pm watershed in the coming months.

“It is expected that Scotland and Wales will imitate in early 2026.”

Currently, the new change in law is only coming into effect in England. It is expected that Scotland and Wales will imitate this new regulation in early 2026.

NUSU cuts new Living Wage commitment

Joseph Morris

Newcastle University has climbed up 13 places to 144th in the World.

Following a decision taken in February 2025 by Newcastle Student Union’s board of trustees regarding the pay of variable hours workers, Newcastle University Student Union (NUSU) can no longer be considered a real Living Wage employer.

In a statement to The Courier, Chief Executive of the Student Union, Lindsey Lockey, stated that due to a £100,000 budget shortfall, “The pay rise we needed to make to remain within the [real Living Wage] accreditation was deemed unaffordable”.

What is the living wage?

As of the Wednesday 22nd of October 2025, the real living wage is set at £13.45 an hour outside of London (£14.80 in London). As NUSU is no longer is accredited as a living wage employer, its variable hours staff will be paid more than 8% below the real Living Wage.

The real Living Wage is the only UK wage rate calculated on the real cost of living. The rate of the real Living Wage is independently calculated according to the cost of living, based on a basket of household goods and services. Simply put, the real living wage is the minimum amount of money needed for someone to live. Living Wage accreditation certifies

that employers pay their staff a real living wage. Newcastle University and the Student Union accredited in 2019.

At the time, Vice-Chancellor Chris Day stated, “We know that the real Living Wage means happier and healthier colleagues, so we are delighted to announce this new rate of pay...”.

The North East has the highest rate of low pay in Great Britain, with 1 in 5 being paid below the real Living Wage.

“The North East has the highest rate of low pay in Great Britain, with 1 in 5 being paid below the real living wage.””

In an Interview with The Courier, Hannah Cooper, the research and campaigns manager at Citizens Advice Newcastle, discussed the real Living Wage campaign and NUSU’s decision to drop its RLW accreditation.

Hannah spoke about the importance of paying employees the real Living Wage. “The real living wage ensures that employees are paid enough to live”.

Using the Joseph Rowntree Foundation’s minimum income calculator, a single Variable Hours employee at NUSU would not meet the minimum standards of living. Hannah notes that “the real Living Wage ensures that employees are paid enough to live”. Additionally, Hannah described the sacrifices employees paid less than the living wage must make, e.g. choosing to ‘heat or eat’.

Aside from being “the right thing to do”, paying employees the real Living Wage has significant benefits for the

employer. The reputational benefits that come with being a Living Wage employer are clear; it highlights that this employer looks after their staff and refuses to pay ‘poverty wages’. Moreover, organisations paying the RLW reduces sickness absence and reduces staff turnover, both of which are costly for the employer.

Hannah Cooper, Campaigns Manager at Citizens Advice

Newcastle

Representatives from the real Living Wage campaign have met with senior executives at the Student Union regarding their decision. Hannah Cooper stated that the meeting ‘went well’ and she is hopeful that NUSU will reaccredit within the next year.

as inflation for 24/25 remains above 4%.

In a February 2025 survey, the same month in which NUSU removed its real Living Wage accreditation, 70% of students at Newcastle University said they were negatively affected by the cost of living. In the same survey, 30% of Students at Newcastle University (over 2x the national average of 14%) considered dropping out of university due to financial concerns.

“Lindsey Lockey expressed interest in reaccreditation suggesting that the board will review their decision to pay RLW annually.””

In her statement, Chief Executive of NUSU, Lindsey Lockey, expressed interest in reaccreditation suggesting that the board will “review [their decision to pay the RLW] annually”.

It is expected that representatives from the RLW coalition will meet with the NUSU board of trustees to discuss reaccreditation.

Whilst the Student Union stated they want to ensure fair pay, critics have noted the decision to increase the pay of Variable hours workers by 2.75%, not only dropped RLW accreditation, but also represents a real term pay cut,

According to the Student Union’s Website, these concerns raised around the cost of living have been listened to. For the academic year 25/26, the second of the three action priorities for Newcastle Student Union is ‘Easing Financial Stress’ aiming to “[Make] student life more affordable with new initiatives.”

The Tyne and Wear campaign for a real Living Wage has been a great success so far, starting in 2017 with 30 living wage employers to over 400 accredited living wage employers in 2025! NUSU’s decision to drop this commitment is frustrating for campaigners.

It is still unclear whether the decision by Newcastle University Student Union to suspend its commitment to the real living wage affects the accreditation of Newcastle University as they are separately listed charities. NUSU are expected to face criticism as more information regarding their decision to drop its commitment to ensuring a real Living Wage for all workers comes to light.

Ariana Oprea

Mia Hennebry

Image credit: Joseph Morris

Image credit: Joseph Morris

Image source: Ivan Yerokhin, Unsplash

Image source: McElspeth, Pixabay

Campus Comment 5

The realities of a prose dissertation

Scarlet Davies - Opinion Sub-Editor

One of our sub-editors discusses the beginning of her dissertation experience

By far the worst part of third year: the dreaded deadline of your dissertation.

I’ve taken a slightly different path for an English literature student, and chosen to write my dissertation as prose instead of a typical essay; something which I’m constantly questioning as I begin to write my dissertation and find that I’m constantly stuck with writer’s block. At least with an essay, you have secondary sources and a novel to base ideas off. With prose, I have a completely blank canvas and a whole lot of discarded ideas.

But I know where I want to begin- at least, sort of. I’ve always been fascinated with the world of sport: the addiction to winning that athletes base their lives around, and the relationships and social life that they sacrifice to be the best at their field. I find that feeling of exhilaration to be the same high that people associate with drink and drugs. I wanted to create a character that has the same dependency for a chemical high as a runner’s high, and how those compulsions collide throughout her

search for success.

Easier said than done, really. With a prose dissertation, the contact hours you get are extremely limited: this semester we’ve had one lecture where they lectured us on the importance of writing commercial fiction in order to get published, instead of writing something you actually enjoy. To add to this incredibly inspirational talk, we are expected to do most of the writing on our own- something that I can definitely struggle with. Without someone to push me to write, I can forget that I even have a dissertation to complete at all.

But my dissertation supervisor meetings are my saving grace. Not only did she offer me hot chocolate (thanks Sarah) but she gave me feedback on what I’d already written and offered recommendations for other television shows and books that were similar to the vibe of the prose I was writing. As someone who needs someone to let me know what I need to alter, it keeps me on track to know that there’s always something about my work that needs to be improved. Easier said than done, really. With a prose dissertation, the contact hours you get are extremely limited: this semester we’ve had one lecture where they lectured us on the importance of writing commercial fiction in order to get published, instead of writing something you

actually enjoy. To add to this incredibly inspirational talk, we are expected to do most of the writing on our ownsomething that I can definitely struggle with. Without someone to push me to write, I can forget that I even have a dissertation to complete at all.

But my dissertation supervisor meetings are my saving grace. Not only did she offer me hot chocolate (thanks Sarah) but she gave me feedback on what I’d already written and offered recommendations for other television shows and books that were similar to the vibe of the prose I was writing. As someone who needs someone to let me know what I need to alter, it keeps me on track to know that there’s always something about my work that needs to be improved.

It’s still too early to tell how well my dissertation will end up going, but at the moment I’m feeling better about it than I thought I would. Creating a world through words can be intimidating, but getting a headstart instead of waiting for the second semester to start is the way to go. It’s a marathon, not a sprinteven if the idea for my diss might suggest otherwise.

My experience with battling freshers' flu

What to do about the Tup Tup ticket struggle?

Aclassic element of the university experience is the formidable 'freshers' flu'. As a first year myself, currently experiencing the never-ending illness, I feel as if I have expert knowledge on how this has affected my first three weeks.

For some insight: from day two, the flu decided to capture me as its next victim, leaving me coughing myself to sleep, waking myself up with an aching head (though not solely blaming the flu) and permanently clutching my inhaler stick like my life depends on it. Even if I were to put the physical trauma behind me, I have come to realise it affects me socially. Upon reflection I have had absolutely no social encounters whilst healthy. As much as this sounds like an exaggeration, I cannot remember the last conversation I had without sniffing or coughing in the middle of a sentence.

"This lack of normalcy can genuinely knock the confidence out of people, especially 'freshers'."

"For myself and many other students, socialising is one of the most importamt parts of university..."

This lack of normalcy can genuinely knock the confidence out of people, especially ‘freshers’. Though it is a rite of passage and an inevitable, or some might even say a crucial point in university life; attempting to get to know people while battling every urge to crawl into bed and never get up again makes socialising that much harder. For myself and many other students, socialising is one of the most important parts of university and to have original worries of leaving home coupled with meeting new people or even just being in a city; there is now the additional factor of illness, and the toll it takes on metal health. Many studies have been conducted on the correlation between illness and the effect it has on mental health. Your body’s immune system is the foundation for every response you have outwardly and is severely vulnerable. Organisations like the American

University's Insight lectures open for all

Tinkler, - Food and Drink Sub-Editor

Newcastle Universitie's Insights pubic lectures are now available to everyone.

We are all guilty of degree tunnel vision. Swimming in readings and assignments can make it difficult to look beyond the specificity of our individual studies. Though in doing so we deny ourselves a variety of academic opportunities. A perfect example of this is Newcastle University’s Insights public lectures that are open to everyone. The lectures cover a wide variety of topics, delivered by guest speakers and university researchers from Newcastle and beyond. They are

the perfect, low-commitment way to find out something new.

"You never know, a new interest might be exactly what you've been missing!"

In my experience, the lectures are interesting and often present a unique perspective on the issue at hand. From science and medicine to history and language, there is something for everyone. I would encourage you to step out of your comfort zone and allow yourself to be surprised. You never know, a new niche interest might be exactly what you’ve been missing! The lectures are held weekly, usually in the Curtis Auditorium in the Herschel Building. Whilst they are completely free to attend, pre-booking is required.

The Tup Tup ticket struggle

Psychological Association (APA), and Psychology Today, all explain how even a common cold can reduce the speed at which we understand social cues and how a low mood or even depression can occur when ill. This is the body’s natural response to shut down less necessary functions to focus on fighting the illness. However, for freshers, the functions being shut down are the most important. To be alert, energetic and remember events (or even just names) are the priority for freshers but unfortunately these are the first to go. Psychomotor activities, memory processing, reaction time and rational decision making are also on the ditch list. Leaving us with the bare necessities and pure determination to function. This being said, the question has to be posed… Have you even done freshers right if you aren’t coming out of it with at least one permanently damaged lung, a Thai Inhaler addiction or the worry of contracting sepsis from one too many news articles being sent to you by your mum?

Tup Tup, once infamous for Kanye West’s arrest now infamous for… ticket sellouts? Tup Tup has at least one night a week for you, if you can get a ticket.

Newcastle is known for its nightlife, so it’s no surprise that club nights sell out. It is especially irritating, though, when you’re part of a society – Wednesday socials are a must! It’s a good idea to follow clubs on social media as a reminder and make sure that you have an account with the ticketsellers already - I choose Fatsoma. I’d also recommend being on standby for the live release – fingers crossed that if you’re on it, you should be in with a good chance of securing a ticket.

"It’s also important to remember that whilst Tup Tup might be your favourite, there are plenty of options in the toon."

However, this doesn’t guarantee a ticket. So, what do you do when you go to checkout, but there are no tickets available? You can always chance your luck and try to pay on the door, but this

isn’t ideal, nor does it guarantee entry. It’s also important to remember that whilst Tup Tup might be your favourite, there are plenty of options in the toon. From World HQ to Cosy Joe’s, there will always be availability somewhere, so don’t worry that you’re missing out by not securing tickets. But why is Tup Tup, especially recently, such a sell out?

A massive factor of this will be the freshers experience – it’s a new city for many first years. There can be an expectation to follow the clubbing zeitgeist and find a favourite club, which involves frequenting different venues and club nights, namely Tup Tup. Also, it’s early on in the academic year – workloads probably won’t be feeling so stressful, or deadlines quite so looming at this stage. Don’t worry –those late night library sessions are on their way!

There’s also Loosedays' new involvement, particularly with the rebranded Jungle Thursdays, expanding to clubs theCUT and Loja. If you've been on campus, chances are that you've seen Jungle offering free ice creams to students as promo. It's not surprising that this has caused a surge in interest - Loosedays are known for creating great nights, and this event has significantly broadened Tup Tup’s target audience through the mix of R&B, rap, and club classics.

Whatever the reason, here’s to hoping that you can secure tickets to the clubs that you love.

Beattrice Howe

Kate Gibbs

Image source: Siora Photography, Unsplash

Ruby

Image source: Hssart, Pixabay

Lynxes reintroduced into Northumberland

Oli Pyzel

Nature in Britain has been on a decline for a millennium. Many species have already gone extinct due to human intervention, and more than 1 in 7 species in the UK are currently in danger of extinction. Because of this, the reintroduction of past predators is under serious consideration to help restore the balance in nature, especially regarding deer populations.

The Eurasian lynx (Lynx lynx), which used to inhabit Britain approximately 1,300 years ago, has been proposed for reintroduction by The Missing Lynx Project, an organisation working closely with the Northumberland Wildlife Trust. This project involved a touring exhibition spanning across Northumberland, Cumbria and Southern Scotland in order to determine the views of locals in the project’s area. Although the exact number of deer in the UK is unknown, there are enough of them to cause significant damage to woodlands and there is currently no

natural predator to keep them under control. The Parliamentary Office for Science and Technology has claimed that 8,000 hectares of damage to woodlands with Sites of Special Interest status has been caused directly by deer. Although lynxes would only hunt a small proportion of deer yearly, just their presence would inspire deer herds to migrate more regularly to different areas, preventing overgrazing. The natural culling of deer by lynxes will help reduce spending on deer management programmes, allowing spending to be mitigated to other areas in rural communities.

Kielder Forest in Northumberland is the proposed release site due to it being the only area in England and Wales with enough woodlands to support a target population of 50 lynxes, starting with an initial release of 20 lynxes over several years.

The individual risk in local communities is low, as there has never been a record of a healthy lynx attacking a human due to their shy nature, a fact contributing to the statistic of 72% of locals of the suggested reintroduction

Debunking the 'Fertility Cliff'

Hannah Carlebach

One of medicine’s biggest myths is that of the fertility cliff when talking about women. Whilst there is some truth in fertility decreasing with age, it’s not as simple as a ‘cliff’, with this phrase being used to demonise aging women for years.

The fertility cliff is the idea that once a woman hits 35, her fertility will drop, leaving her unable to have children. A pregnant woman over 35 is known as a geriatric mother. The term’s origins date back to the 1970’s where doctors advised against women over 35 having children on the basis it would lead to chromosomal abnormalities and is labelled as ‘high risk’. There are studies that show fertility does decrease over time, as by age 37 a woman has a significantly lower number of viable eggs compared to a 30 year old, however, this is not only an issue for women. Looking at the science, according to the British Fertility Society, women have a 20% chance of a successful conception in each cycle when they are aged 30 or less. In comparison, this percentage drops to 5% when a woman turns 40. Whilst this shows that fertility decreases with age for women, it is not a ‘cliff’ as suggested. This is a more gradual process that comes hand in hand with aging naturally. Of course, there are many stories of women who conceive

area saying they support the decision.

“The main opposition to their reintroduction comes from farmers”

The main opposition to their reintroduction comes from farmers, as they fear livestock, such as sheep, being targeted. However, lynx behaviour in Europe has shown that sheep casualties are generally low due to their dietary preference of roe deer. The project also is working closely with farmers in order to best support them in the worst events, and prevent damages. According to an AECOM report, only 38 animals would be killed by lynxes a year, causing damages of only £757 yearly, a number which the farmers would be compensated for at above market rate.

“Overall, lynx reintroduction in Northumberland has strong local support."

Overall, lynx reintroduction in Northumberland has strong local support, would pose little risk to local communities and help minimise the damage to woodlands by deer.

successfully in their 40s, which whilst unusual is not uncommon.

This is a more gradual process that comes hand in hand with aging naturally.

In contrast, a ‘fertility cliff’ is never used to describe men. A man’s fertility decreases with his age due to the declining testosterone levels, decreased sperm quality and many lifestyle factors. Men can be infertile past a certain age, and well as women, and the blame being solely put onto the women for their decreasing fertility, is an outdated idea in need of change.

The term ‘fertility cliff’ and having a ‘biological clock’ are simply notions which have scared mothers over the age of 35 into considering their pregnancies high risk when medically this is not the case. Labelling a pregnancy over the age of 35 as a ‘geriatric pregnancy’ can cause fear and unnecessary anxiety. This can lead to fearbased decisions and overall makes pregnancy for these women unnecessarily difficult. Every woman’s

Putting a cap on fertility at 35 is a badly informed and outdated idea. Declining fertility is more of a slope than a cliff, decreasing gradually with age until menopause. A woman’s fertility based on her age should not be used as a tool to induce fear and anxiety during pregnancy. It is yet another example of male hierarchical medical system which aims to undermine a woman’s choice on when she wants to have a baby.

Headline‘CapitoliumNews 2’, Kidney hope in Newcastle

Maya Egerton

Atreatment for a rare kidney condition called ‘CG3’ has been discovered by researchers at Newcastle University. The treatment, iptacopan, provides hope for patients who have been suffering with the debilitating disease which was previously untreatable. The breakthrough signifies a major step forward in understanding C3G, with more research needed to understand how best to administer the drug.

C3G (complement 3 glomerulopathy) is a result of the complement system becoming overactive and damaging the kidneys, specifically the glomeruli which are needed to filter the blood to remove toxins and produce urine. The complement system is part of the immune system made up of proteins responsible for killing pathogens, helping the body fight infection. However, in individuals with C3G the complement system mistakes the glomeruli as targets causing irreversible damage. This reduces their ability to filter the blood, resulting in protein loss from kidneys. Most individuals develop end-stage kidney failure and require kidney dialysis. In many patients C3G returns despite receiving kidney

transplants, rendering the transplant unsuccessful.

The treatment called iptacopan, made by Novartis, was used in a phase III trial, called APPEAR-C3G. The trial involved patients from around the world and compared iptacopan to a placebo, an inactive treatment. The treatment was shown to be effective and safe, preventing damage to the kidneys by the complement system.

Professor of complement therapeutics at Newcastle University, David Kavanagh, was the study’s senior author. He stated: “For the first time we have a treatment that targets the underlying causes of C3G where previously there was no effective treatment”. Dr Edwin Wong, honorary senior clinical lecturer at Newcastle University and UK chief investigator for the trial added: “We are grateful to the patients who took part in this trial, and the teams whose hard work and dedication got us to this point”.

Whilst C3G is a rare condition, affecting 1 in 500,000 people in the UK, the effects on the individual and their family are detrimental. The development of this treatment is significant not only for patients with C3G but also for individuals suffering with other diseases involving dysregulation in the complement system.

Green sea turtles triumph as 'endangered' label dropped

Adeena Aflah

Beacon of hope for Green Sea Turtles as new conservation efforts fight endangered status.

In a win for conservationists around the world, the International Union of Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has officially classified the green sea turtle as of “Least Concern”.

Survival Commission Marine Turtle Specialist Group stated: “The ongoing global recovery of the green turtle is a powerful example of what coordinated global conservation over decades can achieve to stabilise and even restore populations of long-lived marine species. Such approaches must focus not only on the turtles, but on keeping their habitats healthy, and their ecological functions intact.”

trains locals who once relied on turtle poaching as a source of income, as ‘nest protectors’. In addition to this, the project generates revenue through ecotourism and educational programs to fund its conservation efforts.

Previously classified as endangered, the green sea turtle is the largest sea turtle and is named for its green cartilage and shell. Green turtles are found in tropical waters, around the Pacific, Atlantic and Indian Ocean. The recent decline in population is often attributed to the loss of habitat due to human activities disrupting nesting on beaches. The high rates of accidental capture in deep sea fishing nets and the rise in hunting sea turtles for illegal trade continue to threaten further progress in reinstating numbers.

“The ongoing global recovery of the green turtle is a powerful example of what co-ordinated global conservation can achieve."

In

Since the 1970s, the green sea turtle population has increased by approximately 28% as a result of conservation efforts and innovative ways to track subpopulations.

“The WWF reports an astounding 417% increase in turtle population in Tortuguero between 1971 and 2003”

“In response to illegal turtle use...conservationists have turned to technology to track and identify at-risk turtle populations”

On the lush shores of Costa Rica’s Tortuguero National Park, lies one of the largest nesting sites of green sea turtles. The WWF reports an astounding 417% increase in turtle population in Tortuguero between 1971 and 2003, an indicator of the efforts to protect nesting mothers and monitor nesting patterns in this region.

Turtle Watch Rakawa in Sri Lanka is another example of engaging local communities in conservation efforts. This project

In response to illegal turtle use and trading, conservationists have turned to technology to track and identify at-risk turtle populations. ShellBank is a global database of turtle DNA that enables the identification and tracking of subpopulations and migration patterns through genetic profiling. The open-source database has the ability to aid geneticists, conservationists and law enforcement in safeguarding turtle populations and their habitats. From satellite technology to community led initiatives, global conservation efforts have proved to us yet again that we are capable of change. The reclassification of the green sea turtle has paved the way for future efforts to bring back other endangered species, bringing balance to our ecosystems.

a press release by the IUCN, Roderic Mast, Co-Chair of IUCN’s Species

Image source: Jevgeni Fil, Unsplash

Pixabay

Got an itch? Tummy trouble? Tickly

cough?

Head to your local pharmacy.

Did you know?

Pharmacists across the North East and North Cumbria can offer advice and FREE treatment for a wide range of common conditions* – just like having a prescription from your GP!

Please ask your pharmacy team for more details and eligibility.

UTI’s non pregnant women 16-64 years

Shingles 18 years+

Impetigo 1 year+

Sore throat 5 years+

Sinusitis 12 years+

Infected insect bites 1 year+

Earache 1 to 17 years Additional conditions can be treated, without the need to visit a GP. Ask a member of your pharmacy team about the minor ailments scheme.

Go to your local community pharmacy (chemist) about your illness and they will offer advice. Step 1 Step 2

3

qualify for free treatment if you do not pay for your prescriptions. If needed, you will be offered treatment and if you qualify, this will be given free of charge.

suitable medicine may be offered to you.*

Can you actually be 'popular' at university?

Bethan King

You'll hang with the right cohorts, you'll be good at sports...

Whether in a GCSE chemistry class, or an undergraduate history lecture, their will always be a social element to education. For many, fitting in is a major concern, typically linked with peer pressure and societal expectations. Suddenly, the worrying question 'Can you be 'popular' at university?' arises.

The OED defines 'popularity' as 'the fact or condition of being liked, admired, or supported by many people or by a particular group of people; general acceptance or approval'. In this sense then yes, you can be popular at university: it's a universal possibility within any social environment. However, when focusing on the transition from mandatory to further education, what's different is the significance of 'popularity'. You may feel or seem popular, but it holds a lot less value than it did at school.

Nevertheless, establishing a social presence at university is definitely possible, with societies and sports clubs being the explicit example. Joining a circle with a common interest or goal immediately gives students 'many people [or] a particular group of people'

to feel 'general acceptance or approval' from.

Unfortunately though, they tend to carry the age-old social baggage that school did. University culture continues to be attached to images of 'freshers', drinking and clubbing, an your participation in these can seem to partly measure your loyalty to a society or sports club. Whether it's an initiation, or the weekly trip to Soho on a Wednesday night, drinking culture is pushed in these circles as the way to make friends and feel included.

"'popularity' seems to have a lot less significance than it did during compulsory education."

This is then perpetuated by social media as socials and events are posted online. Their 'general acceptance or approval' of each other is intentionally presented to others, and creates an image of popularity within the University community. Consider the posts from the Ski Club's annual trip (who look like they do more drinking than skiing); intentional social media engagement gives these groups a stronger social leverage, and the people within them can thus can be stereotypically categorized as 'popular'. Beyond their societies and clubs, individual students may use social media like this too. Someone

who puts significant effort into their Instagram are more likely to appear on more feeds, be recognized, and considered 'popular' on campus. School is like a microcosm of the wider social reality: confined by the walls of the classroom, and the structure of the education system, it can feel like your whole world. When the learning is mandatory too, the social side of compulsory education is seen just as equal, and sometimes more important, in relation to the academics. Fitting in with peers naturally becomes a major concern. However, at university, the

'popularity' seems to have a lot less significance than it did during compulsory education.

There are 20,934 undergraduates, and 26,937 postgraduates attending Newcastle University as home-campus students this year. If we consider these numbers to be the 'particular group of people' the OED refers to, then the potential feeling of 'general acceptance or approval' that defines 'popularity' is lost in the masses. It's next-to impossible for the whole student body to know a particular individual, and vice versa, nobody is expected to identify all 47,871 students walking around campus. For example, someone who spends their days in the Percy Building could go their entire University life without ever meeting someone based in the William Leech building.

Image source: Pikawil from Laval ,Wikimedia Commons https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0 , some images may have been altered

The idle £42m: should the Council be stashing or spending?

Carly Horne Newcastle City Council have been sitting on piles of cash, instead of spending it on promised community upgrades...

Newcastle City Council is facing crossparty criticism over “alarming” delays in spending £42m of developer investment — money sitting idle while the city cries out for regeneration. These funds are earmarked for precisely the improvements residents want: improvements to local schools, better access to affordable housing, improved transport links, healthcare provisions, and public spaces. Specifically, £35 million of this has been committed to developments at the Newcastle Great Park and other major sites, but of this sum, only £6m has been released in the last year — leaving parks neglected, play areas unsafe, and community facilities under strain.

"Leaving tens of millions untouched isn’t just a missed

opportunity — it’s terrible optics."

Council bosses insist the money is ring-fenced for future schemes,

but the refusal to prioritise shortterm improvements has drawn fire from across the political spectrum.

Independent councillor Marion Williams described Newcastle’s parks as “a mess,” while Liberal Democrat Peter Allen warned that areas like Jesmond Dene are in “desperate need” of investment.

" community voices should be brought directly into the decision-making process."

Leaving tens of millions untouched isn’t just a missed opportunity — it’s terrible optics. Residents are entitled to ask whether slow spending comes down to incompetence or indifference. In reality, much of the money is legally tied to specific projects: cash from Great Park housing, for instance, can’t simply be diverted to fix playgrounds elsewhere. Big-ticket schemes like schools and transport infrastructure are complex and take time. But none of that negates the frustration that communities feel. What people want is clarity and momentum. If major projects are in the

pipeline, the council should be shouting about timelines, partners, and expected impact. Publish a clear roadmap. Show where and when the money will land.

"...while the long-term builds are underway, unlock smaller, visible wins."

And while the long-term builds are underway, unlock smaller, visible wins. Repair the parks. Refresh play areas. Back local facilities that residents use daily. Councillors already know where the pressure points are — and community voices should be brought directly into the decision-making process to ensure spending reflects lived realities. No one expects miracles. But leaving £42m to gather dust while Newcastle’s public spaces decline is indefensible. The city deserves investment now, not promises for some vague tomorrow.

'popularity' can begin looking like an immature occupation.

This wider university community also helps defeat the pressure of 'popularity' too, as every student immediately shares a general commonality. Whether it was a first, second, or clearing choice, each student made the same decision to attend that particular university, creating solidarity, strength and university pride in the student body.

On another level, everyone was also accepted by the university, thus deserving to attend through the university's approval. This common ground and equality subdues the differences between students that could cause the emergence of a social hierarchy, and subsequently the categorization of 'popularity'.

In this more complex and academically-focused environment,

The choice of going to university also makes it's social element less significant in comparison to compulsory education. In this more complex and academically-focused environment, 'popularity' can begin looking like an immature occupation. Deciding to dedicate three years or more towards earning a degree - for some - shifts their social life to the peripheral: pulling allnighters to lock-in at the library is just as symbolic of university life as drinking culture is. As students begin preparing for a particular career, university can be a semi-professional environment, making popularity-politics an insignificant concern. In fact, within lectures and seminars, you are mostlikely meeting others interested in the same field, so creating social hierarchy between potential colleagues could have damaging consequences in your own professional future.

You also can't contain socialising within the boundaries of university, as friendships are created beyond the institution. As aforementioned, no longer confined by the walls of a classroom (or a lecture hall), you being socializing in the real, wider world. Without the militant structure of compulsory education, you're no longer fixed within the microcosm, so the pressure to fit in, or be 'popular' within it is eliminated.

So, to answer our original question, yes, you can be popular at University... but it certainly isn't as significant as it was during your GCSE chemistry class.

Are global honours awarded for the right reasons?

Martha Nugent An award for exceptional contribution towards peace efforts, or for the world's most dangerous delusions?.

Malala Yousafzai, Mother Teresa, Albert Einstein, Martin Luther King and well, Donald Trump: if each of these names seem as though they are equally peaceful, then you might be in agreement with just under one third of Americans who believe Donald Trump is this rightful deserver of a Nobel peace prize. Self- proclaimed “peace president” Trump lost out on this prestigious award to Venezuelan leader María Corina Machado, for her “tireless work promoting democratic rights for the people of Venezuela and for her struggle to achieve a just and peaceful transition from dictatorship to democracy.” Her award followed the Nobel Committee’s usual rigorous largescale nomination process, then a selection by the Norwegian Nobel committee, reflecting its intense and thorough selection process. Nevertheless, Trump

responded to this news in typical Trump fashion, declaring to press reporters that Machado had gone out of her way to call him, dedicating and accepting her prize in his honour claiming he “really deserved it”, a humble statement from Trump, as always.

MAGA fans were quick to express their own outrage on Trumps snubbed award, pointing out his recent involvement in the Middle East, notably the Abraham Accords, as evidence of his peacekeeping credentials. Therefore, obviously why on earth would the Nobel Committee dismiss Trump in all his peacekeeper ways, I mean minus the odd trade war, nuclear conflict threat, and ‘slightly’ aggressive demeanour on X, he's an allround stand-up guy!

Still his robbed award begs the question, what is the criteria for a Nobel peace prize? Should celebrities with a mass following, who have tendencies to make their campaign speeches sound more like WWE promotions then ever promoting international harmony be qualified to hold the same award as activists, philosophers and saints? According to the Nobel Peace Prize committee, apparently characteristics like “humility” “kindness” and having a general strong moral character are what qualifies a peace prize, and whilst Trump claims credits for millions of lives saved, unfortunately he falls short on these key qualities by a slight smidge.

A long road ahead: construction on Northumberland street

Erin Neal

The construction works are starting to seem never ending...

The ambitious revamp of the city centre’s premier shopping street is well underway, and while the end result promises a tranquil utopia of green spaces and a variety of new seating options for even more nefarious activities, the present reality is rather harrowing.

The project began back in December 2023 and originally received a deadline of summer 2025. Funded by Newcastle City Council, the investment intends to cater to the city centre's growing needs, creating an elegant re-modernisation with new lighting pillars, paving, furniture and plants. The plans hoped for a more communal and aesthetically pleasing main road in Newcastle. Yet, we've passed summer now, and completion has been pushed back to 2026!

On the odd occasion that I brave the dreaded march down that disastrous road, I get war flashbacks to Year 8 PE of doing the bleep test to measure my endurance. Not only is it an enormous eyesore, but it makes merely going into

the town centre feel like a chore. When moving to a big city, I never expected to be scrambling through a cattle enclosure like a game of hopscotch just to find my way through the labyrinth that is Northumberland Street. Never mind having to simultaneously dodge the oncoming traffic of people who somehow manage to shuffle along at a glacial pace of about one mile an hour. More so, the construction hours of Monday to Friday, 8 am to 6 pm and Saturday, 8 am to 1 pm, with some agreed night time working, make

They also announced the works will not be halted during the holiday season, which will undoubtedly have a knockon effect on the crowdedness of local festivities such as the Fenwick window, light switch on and Christmas markets.

“by the time this work wraps up, I could have earned a full undergraduate degree."

However, I cannot deny the vision behind the idea. I understand the importance of adapting the popular shopping destination to a hub for events, entertainment, and relaxation, and that is something that will benefit Newcastle immensely in boosting the local economy, public spaces and community engagement. I just wish I could be here to witness it. In fact, I half-joke that by the time this work wraps up, I could have earned a full Still, the patience required to tolerate this lengthy process is wearing thin. Will the promise of transformation to make us forget the years of inconvenience? For now, I will continue avoiding Northumberland

Image source: garten-gg, Pixabay https:// pixabay.com/photos/vehicle-excavatorconstruction-site-4186687/

Rachel Reeves tries to cut Cash ISA allowance:

it work in practice?

Phillipp Andreewitch

One of our writers explores the troubled world of domestic equities...

The aim of having the general public as shareholders in the nation's enterprises is a noble one — a step closer to an idyllic and equitable society where we all own and profit from the nation’s enterprises. On a more practical and less ideological basis, investment in domestic equities makes Britain more compelling for global enterprises to launch their initial public offerings and bring their business over here. Estimates suggest that at present, "retail traders" (mere mortals, the likes of you and I) make up 5% of all money spent in European markets, according to Rachel Reeves would like to increase public ownership of shares by reducing the amount you are

allowed to put into your Cash ISA from £20,000 to £10,000. This new restriction would not apply to the alternative Stocks & Shares ISA, which allows the public to keep all the profits from profitable trades they make. She evidently hopes that this would encourage some of the £300bn the nation has deposited in Cash ISAs to instead be invested in domestic markets.

There are, unfortunately, problems with this noble rationale. Firstly, there is nothing to prevent the British public from funnelling their money into foreign exchanges like the S&P 500 or Bitcoin, where buyers don't need to pay a 0.5% stamp duty on the order value when purchasing shares in a company incorporated in the UK. Reeves has predictably faced calls to remove the duty entirely, but she has so far only floated the possibility of making exemptions for newly listed companies. How about exemptions for members of the general public, from whom stamp duty revenues are quite small to begin with?

Secondly, Cash ISAs are only so popular because they offer a fairly high rate of return (up to 4%+) considering that there is no risk associated with them and that they often don't carry any penalties for early withdrawal.

True, if someone had put £1,000 every year into a Cash ISA vs into their Shares ISA, they could have had over double the amount of savings.

However, I doubt that many who value the flexibility and stability of Cash ISAs would jump headfirst into an unstable way to hold savings, which requires a

Are Master’s Degrees in the humanities really worth it?

Jess

Can you really 'Master' something so subjective...

In today’s relentlessly capitalist society, value is often measured in financial terms: salary brackets, property portfolios, and investment potential. Our culture prizes productivity, innovation, and entrepreneurialism above almost everything else. Hobbies must be monetised, passions turned into startups, and even rest seems to be branded as “strategic recovery.” Within this framework, the pursuit of knowledge for the deep, personal engagement with ideas, history, and culture has become an almost radical act. This shift is especially evident in how we view education. Increasingly, traditional academic routes are being dismissed or devalued in favour of more "practical" alternatives: apprenticeships, internships, and entry-level schemes. These can be excellent options, especially in industries where hands-on experience trumps theoretical study. But this growing preference for direct-to-job pipelines is having a knock-on effect, particularly on postgraduate education.

Image source: garten-gg, Pixabay,https://pixabay.com/photos/certificate-contract-document-proof-3177940/

lot more careful consideration. This is especially true in today's markets, where shares are selling at all-time highs relative to their inherent earning power. Influential figures like JP Morgan boss Jamie Dimon have voiced concerns about a market fall in the coming years.

“In practice, many retail investors aren't properly informed on how to exercise their rights"

There is no one clear solution for bringing about the undoubtedly desirable notion of the general public as shareholders. While removing the stamp duty would certainly help, there are other things which could also be done here and there. For instance, all shareholders are, in theory, supposed to have voting rights and be able to influence decisions about how their company is run and when its profits are paid out to owners as dividends. However, in practice, many retail investors aren't properly informed on how to exercise their rights and/ or simply go along with the company board, even when those decisions benefit insider shareholders like stockholding executives at the expense of outsider shareholders who aren't in the know. Greater government oversight to enforce transparency and digitise shareholder participation to a greater extent could be a step in the right direction.

Master’s degrees, especially in the humanities, are now often seen as indulgent, unnecessary, or worse, a waste of time and money. In a society obsessed with speed and outcome, the idea of spending another year or two studying literature, philosophy, history, or the arts, with no guaranteed return on investment, seems almost countercultural. Why “waste” time dissecting 18th-century poetry or exploring theories of identity when your peers are securing salaries, climbing career ladders, and posting LinkedIn updates about their latest achievements?

But this utilitarian view of education is short-sighted. It reduces learning to a transaction and equates worth with economic return. What it fails to account for is the immeasurable value of intellectual curiosity, the richness of academic exploration, and the personal growth that comes from studying something you truly care about.

A master’s degree in the humanities is not always about career advancement, and that’s okay. It can be about depth rather than direction. It can be about asking better questions, sharpening your critical thinking, or learning to see the world in more complex and nuanced ways. It can be about joy. And yes, there is joy in rigorous thought. Joy in devoting yourself to a subject that has captured your interest, whether that’s classical philosophy, feminist

a significant financial cost, and in many cases, it won’t catapult you into a higher income bracket. The return is often not immediate, nor is it always tangible. But if it is a subject you are passionate about, and you can reasonably afford to do so, then the investment is far from wasted.The aim of having the general public as shareholders in the nation's enterprises is a noble one — a step closer to an idyllic and equitable society where we all own and profit from the nation’s enterprises. On a more practical and less ideological basis, investment in domestic equities makes Britain more compelling for global enterprises to launch their initial public offerings and bring their business over here. Estimates suggest that at present, "retail traders" (mere mortals, the likes of you and I) make up 5% of all money spent in European markets, according to Euronext.

" We are thinkers, readers, creators, and questioners. The humanities remind us of that."

Rachel Reeves would like to increase public ownership of shares by reducing the amount you are allowed

We need to push back against the narrative that all education must be instrumental, that it must lead directly to a job, a promotion, or a salary increase. We are not robots programmed to produce endlessly. We are, fundamentally, curious beings. We are thinkers, readers, creators, and questioners. The humanities remind us of that. They reconnect us with the complexity of human experience and the beauty of thought.

So, are master’s degrees in the humanities worth it? They are, if you love what you’re studying.  And perhaps most importantly, they are worth it because not everything in life needs to be “useful” in the capitalist sense. Some things are simply worthwhile.

Mooney

On Air, On Campus

"It's made me trust myself more" An interview with Top 5 Records

Top 5 Records talks all things nostalgia, selfconfidence, and playing grunge on Newcastle Student Radio

Music and specifically radio based music shows have long been the pedestals of a special community. This is no different for NSR, and one of those standout shows is Top 5 Records. The show has just started up for its second year on air and this week I had the chance to sit down with the show's host, Charlotte, as she took me on a tour of all things grunge, nostalgia and the homeliness of records.

Charlotte’s passion for music is evident, putting her to the test with the forever infamous ‘If you were on a desert island, what album would you pick?’. Her answer? Lungs by Florence + the Machine. “My mum would play it in the car… six years old I’d scream it at the top of my lungs.” This sense of family and nostalgia that she explains in her answer to this question is palpable through

"My mum would play it in the car... at six years old I'd scream it at the top of my lungs."

Meet

the show that she puts every week. “Music has always felt like a safe space for me” she described, trying to put into words this sense of homeliness that I picked up on tuning into her show. She made it clear that the catalog of music knowledge needed for Top 5 Records has come from a rich history of “friends who loved all the same things I loved… who couldn’t stop playing guitar at any minute.”

She described herself as previously feeling somewhat “militant” about her music, when I asked her about how having guests on the show has impacted her taste. We reminisced on an anecdote from one episode saying; “One of my guests didn’t like the Foo Fighters, whom I love… I instantly tried to convince him he was wrong.” To this day, she mentioned, “he still doesn’t like them, but I realised that's okay.”

"One of my guests didnt like the Foo Fighters... he still doesn't, but I realised that's okay."

up on as admirable about it all. “I had no idea how it would shape me as a person” she heartfeltly expressed. It was a personal moment discussing the relationship that solo hosting has developed into “It has made me trust myself more… increased my confidence tenfold.” She reminisced on the fact that she once couldn’t believe she had chosen to get involved in such a way, still choosing to carry on with Top 5 Records as she works towards a Masters degree. Committing to an increased workload would often put people off the idea of hosting a radio show, but Charlotte explained that she finds the show “really cathartic” and that she views the opportunity as “self-care.”

"Charlotte finds the show really cathartic and as an opportunity for self-care."

Overall, Top 5 Records is a scrapbook of childhood, self-development and warmth all glued together with grunge. Charlotte’s dedication and her clear enjoyment for every aspect of putting the show together perfectly encapsulates the heart of Newcastle Student Radio. As Charlotte heads into her second year of hosting the show, this serves as only a milestone in what is sure to be a thriving closing year.

Charlotte hosts Top 5 Records alone, so it’s not often she has another person to converse with on the show; however, that's one thing I picked

the 25/26

Image source: Cole SWE, Wikimedia Commons, https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/. Some images may have been altered (Quavers). Christopher Holm-Hansen, Wikimedia Commons, https:// creativecommons.org/publicdomain/zero/1.0/ (SemiQuaver).

Station Manager of Newcastle University Television

Megan Grimston - Head of Communications

important to share what plans she has for the year. While she acknowledges that she needs time in Semester One to “familiarise herself with the inner workings” and establish her Executive Team,

It's time to meet the 25/26 academic year NUTV Station Manager... "...she shared a colourful future for the station in Semester Two."

Now the dust has settled on another round of votes, it’s time to introduce the new NUTV Station Manager for the 25/26 academic year. Meet Grace, the official leader of Newcastle University’s Television.

“I want to start by getting the station up and running again” Grace opened with, when asked about her new found role. While she may be stepping into NUTV for the first time, she is no stranger to the world of TV. “My degree included producing a live television show” she shared with me as she reminisced on her undergraduate degree in Film and Television Production.

"My degree included producing different live television shows."

Beyond this, Grace has worked as a runner for BBC Studios, as well as other placements at BBC Yorkshire. She said "This has allowed me to understand how the different departments within S. This goes to say that NUTV is in safe hands with Grace’s belt of experience.

Alongside introducing who Grace is, it’s

she shared a colourful future for the station in Semester Two. What out to me was her desire to dominate Varsity coverage across the year, with wishes of main presenters and on the ground reporters. With such intriguing plans, it seems that Grace has made an effort to research the Newcastle University landscape and establish NUTV in the heart of the student world once again. Beyond that Grace understands that she needs

to think smaller to begin with, saying “I want to promote the station far and wide across campus.”

With a vision, and a humble grasp on where to begin, Grace also expressed her excitement about joining the Newcastle University Student Media community. “I’m so happy to be joining the community, it was part of my inspiration

"I'm so happy to be joining the student media community at Newcastle"

for doing a Masters degree.” After being elected last week, she has already been welcomed in with open arms. For any more questions about NUTV this year, make sure to contact Grace (G.Laidler2@Newcastle.ac.uk) or our Student Media Officer, Libby, (L.Griffiths9@Newcastle.ac.uk). To close, she expressed “This year is going to be so much fun.. I just want to give everyone the chance to get involved.” If it wasn't evident, Grace's love, appreciation and unwavered dedication to television seems to be a beacon for the future of Newcastle University's Television. For the rest of the student media population as well as the external university population, they can rest easy knowing that everything related to NUTV can only improve from here.

On Campus

Semester One is about to hit its half way mark, and a well deserved Reading Week is upon us! While you might think that this is time for the activities to take a break, you'd be wrong! There is a plethora of activities for those of you that are choosing to stay in and around Newcastle for the week, as well as some ready for after the week off!

Wobble Week 10th-14th November

Rainbow Trans Clothing Drive 12th November, 1pm, BSTC

Careers in National Governing Bodies (Careers in Sport) 13th November, 10am, Kings Gate 1.18

Founder's Club Flagship Event 21st November, 6pm, BSTC 1.48

Image source: Sarah Cossom, Wikimedi Commons, https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/

The

remaining space in the ‘On Campus’ column provides a chance for you to advertise your own events to the wider student population.

One off events that are open to the entire student community.

Concerts/performances/shows

Fundraising events

Guest lectures

Taster events, (these should be advertised through Give it a Go)

Club/Society Balls

Externally organised events (e.g. Fight Night, Student Races)

Megan Grimston

Image credit: Charlotte Atkinson

Image credit: Amy Mescus

Aquarius Aries Taurus

January 20th - February 18th

Aquarius, you’ll make me blush! I’m seeing some real romance for you soon. It could be a typical date or some serious platonic bonding but no matter what you’re in for a real treat.

Gemini

Take this as your sign to explore, I know you’ve been waiting for one. There’s a whole world outside of your revision notes if you just take the time to appreciate it.

Some good news for you Pieces, you’re finally overcoming that nagging worry. Don’t get too caught up trying to balance opposing possibilities though, whatever happens, happens. That’s code for ‘it’s out of your hands now so quit stressing’

Aries keep your head high and stay prepared. The stars are telling you to stay cool and collected, there may be a few hiccups coming your way in the disguise of jealousy and frustration. But with that fiery personality of yours, it’s nothing that you can’t handle.

It’s looking you have a pretty heavy workload building. What’s new? Don’t let the little things become big problems. It’ll soon pass- hopefully!

Asmall victory is coming your way, but a bigger one is close behind it. Keep your head down and focus on those dreams. All good things to those who wait.

I’m seeing a little confrontation for you, Leo. Don’t worry it’s no playground drama, it’s all internal. Looks like you’re ready to shed the old you and make room for who you’re becoming.

If I had to describe the coming weeks for Virgo, I'd use three words: creative, inspired and artistic. Look at you go! Who knew your vivid imagination would come in so handy?

This time is all about truth and balance, whether it’s facing your own private secrets or hashing out that housemate squabble, it’s all coming out now Libra- no point in hiding.

Scorpio, it’s time to bite the bullet. Something been weighing on you? Keep turning the same leaf over and over? The stars are saying trust your gut and get on with it already! You know what’s best.

It seems like there’s celebrations looming for you. Maybe it’s just the excitement of upcoming birthdaystime flies I know- or rewarding the small wins like cracking on with those assignments. Either way this is your time to let loose a little.

Ithink it’s time for some new beginnings, don’t you Capricorn? Perhaps expect a change in your personal philosophy or a switch up in routines. Don’t be afraid to let the past stay in the past. That’s right where it belongs.

By students, for students: introducing Nightline Newcastle

Charley Dobson - Blind Date and Agony Ant Co-ordinater

Meet the students behind the scences who are making a difference on campus...

Nightline is an anonymous and confidential listening service for students, which originated in 1970 at Essex University. Since then, it has spread to many other universities across the United Kingdom, including our own, Newcastle University. I had the privilege of speaking to one of Newcastle’s nightline reps, Frankie, to get an insight into the amazing service.

Shall we start with a brief overview of what Nightline actually is?

"Nightline is a listening service run by students, for students, and it’s completely anonymous and nonjudgemental. We’re just a listening ear if you’ve got something on your mind, you can get in touch with us, call us or message whatever works for you. We’re just here to listen."

It’s been running in Newcastle for around 50 years, and it’s always been about supporting students...

Can you share a brief history of your time at Nightline? How did the initiative come to be?

What are it’s aims?

confidential, and we’re non-directive. For someone wanting to get in touch, what kind of support might they be able to expect?

How to: midterm lock-in

Jemima Ashton-Roberts

"There’s been a lot of nightlines across the UK. The general aim is just to support students basically. I’ve been in Nightline for about four years... It’s been running in Newcastle for around 50 years, and it’s always been about supporting students and being a part of something fun and a way to support others."

How can students access

"There are two

card. You can find us online as well and access us through there, or you can use IM (instant messages) through the NUSU website, our Instagram, or any of our flyers, so you can find us pretty

...we’re anonymous, we’re nonjudgemental, non-advisory,

"Our five values: we’re anonymous, we’re non-

TWhat ditching the small town mindset taught me

How searching outside of your upbringing can lead to a variety of new experiences...

I’m beginning to let myself take up space, though it is no easy feat. While being in a small town can prompt a certain mindset, there is something to be said about inhabiting one in your head.

Moreover, being in a smaller place outside university holds its weight, and I wonder which has affected me more.

“Being in a small town may make someone feel that they are limited to their comfort

We’ll begin with strengths: community may matter, or be noticed, more in such an environment, one can find themselves truly without the fear of crowded judgment, some are naturally drawn to smaller pieces of the globe, et cetera. Adversely, as the saying goes, ‘familiarity breeds contempt’. Being in a small town may make someone feel that they are limited to their comfort zone, and sometimes in life, that memo must be rejected. For me, ditching this mindset prospectively allows room for personal and social lives to flourish. By no means does ditching something mean there are no avenues by which said thing has been helpful. I think this is worth

noting and keeping in mind. Small towns give route and root to bigger destinations.

“Hold value in where you come from and look forward to where you are going...”

If we inspect narrow-mindedness, for instance, at the hands of keeping to one culture, then regrouping would not be the worst idea. Hold value in where you come from and look forward to where you are going - for unpacking status quo gives seats at tables you did not know, or were not told, were possible for you. What ditching

mindset has taught me is that it doesn’t matter that you play devil's advocate with yourself, because those things, people and qualities you reach for most of the time meet you halfway. With a bit of luck, and privilege, amongst courage, one will be on their way to a so-called dream life. So long as we leave the small town.

he time has come where you suddenly realise that you have an abundance of work to do. Fresher’s is over, for most, and the partying is slowly decreasing. You feel overwhelmed with a pile of work and conclude it’s time to lock in. Need some new ways to lock in? These tips may be of use. Whilst most suggest that working alone is good, I would suggest the opposite. I find that working with somebody else can really increase your productivity - as long as those you are working with are also dedicated to their work.

If your phone is the biggest distraction when you need to lock-in, then I would recommend recording a timelapse of yourself, with your phone, while you work. It may sound a bit silly but knowing that your phone is in use for something means that you are less inclined to continuously pick it up.

Now, if you still cannot lock in, this final tip may be the one for you. Associating a particular smell with studying is scientifically proven to help you concentrate as our sense of smell is directly connected to the brain’s limbic system which influences memory, mood, and concentration. Meaning that if you have a particular scent in use when locking-in, you should be able to focus better. Citrusy smells are the best for focusing as they are known to boost your alertness whilst uplifting and energising you. Buying a spray or diffuser may be the thing you need to save your mid-terms.

Volunteering in Newcastle: how and why should you?

Why you should give up your time for the benefit of others...

In a world where individualism reigns supreme, personal success has become the central pursuit of everyday life,

and leadership all emerge from engaging with others in meaningful ways. By working together toward shared goals, we not only strengthen our communities but also cultivate the social and emotional intelligence that fuels both personal and professional development. In this sense, helping others becomes a form of mutual enrichment. Each act of involvement, however small, can make a huge impact on someone's life who truly needs it.

comes from giving freely. Honest volunteering isn’t performative for the sake of appearances, but about finding genuine passion in service and aligning your actions with causes that move you. Community also fosters countless chances for growth, both for those offering help and for those receiving it. Communication, empathy, teamwork,

“For those with busier academic schedules, NUSU provides ‘microvolunteering’ and ‘one-offs’ for those who may not have the time to commit fully.”

NUSU’s Go Volunteer programme offers a plethora of opportunities to get involved, ranging from projects like North East Solidarity and Teaching (N.E.S.T), which supports refugees and asylum seekers in the region, to Nightline, a confidential student listening service. They also have more creative initiatives, such as Procrastiknitting, where students craft for charity and even write for The Courier! For those with busier academic schedules, NUSU provides ‘micro-volunteering’ and ‘one-offs’ for those who may not have the time to commit fully.

Outside of university, from the myriad of charity shops that line the city’s streets, to local food banks, museums, and environmental projects, there are countless avenues to make a tangible difference. Whether it’s supporting vulnerable groups at the People’s Kitchen, helping preserve the natural landscape with Ouseburn Trust, or contributing to cultural and creative causes at North East Museums, Newcastle offers a wide network of organisations driven by a shared commitment to community wellbeing. You can find these through websites such as the Newcastle Volunteer Centre and Get Volunteering.

Erin Neal - Lifestyle Sub-Editor

Alicia Elliott

Image source: Zoe Beaudoin, Dupe

Image source: Mahbub04047, Pixabay

Image credit: Trinity Eadie

Image source: Harry Le, Dupe

Filling your own cup: feel-good solo activities

Paula Carrillo

The ultimate solo activities for students...

As mid-modules approach, stress often follows. Between long hours in the library, lack of sleep, cooler days settling in, and stressful deadlines, it can be very easy to forget to take care of yourself. Here are some solo activities to help you refill your own cup and stay calm during the busy season.

A great way to relax is to do some crafting activities. There are some, such as crocheting, painting, zentangle and journaling, that you can do from the comfort of your room, and if you are unsure of how to do any of these, you can just look for a YouTube video to quickly explain how to begin to do these. There are others, such as pottery painting, that you can go out and do at places such as the Pottery Experience located in Jesmond, just a 25-minute walk away from campus or a quick metro ride!

If crafting is not your thing or if you just want to try something else, doing sports is a great way to disconnect. You could go on a run, or even a walk if you prefer, around one of the beautiful parks around Newcastle, go on a hike, or even learn a new sport such as yoga or pilates, both of which, by buying a mat, you can do from your own house, maybe even in between study sessions.

As the weather is getting colder and the days are running shorter, you could also use your time to curl up in bed and catch up on some reading or watch a nice film. This could be something related to your course that can help you develop some understanding of the topic, or something completely unrelated that can take your mind off assignments completely.

“...remember that looking after yourself is not a distraction from university, but the opposite...”

You could also take yourself on a brunch date, try out a new restaurant, or, if you want to use up your time to develop a new skill, try out a new recipe!

Lastly, another solo activity that you could take on is volunteering. This would be a great way of helping others while also gaining new experience to put on your CV! The Students' Union has many options for volunteering on their Go Volunteer website that you could have a look at if interested!

In short, however you choose to spend your time, remember that looking after yourself is not a distraction from university, but the opposite, it is what helps you show up as your best self, both in your studies and beyond, giving you the energy to thrive.

The podcasts that have transformed my perspective

Mia Young -NSR Head of Membership & Events

Need a mindset reset? These podcasts altered how I think...

If you’ve been looking for a mindset shift, podcasts can be a really helpful tool. Here's a list of a few that I've personally found useful. Whether it's a gentle push or a harsh reality check, each of these has served a different purpose in helping me positively shift my mindset.

Mindful Moments with David Larbi is my goto when I need a quick change in outlook. David Larbi, content creator and writer, shares his feelings and reflections on what he’s been dealing with or working through since the previous episode. He does this by talking to himself positively, appreciating the small wins, and encouraging you to do the same.

To me, Mindful Moments is beneficial because of how David Larbi speaks to and about himself. Rather than trying to teach something, it models what healthy self-reflection looks like. The gentle shift in mindset from self-criticism to self-compassion has influenced me, and I find myself returning to this podcast for this reason.

Aware Aggravated Leo Skepi, is best when I’m feeling frustrated. Leo uses his emotions to uplift himself rather than self-deprecate. Hearing him describe how much talking down on himself has hindered him in the past is a reminder not to do the same. This podcast sticks because it doesn’t just provide a new perspective; it forces you to confront the ones that have been limiting you.

North East nostalgia: what it means to grow up in Newcastle

My experience growing up in the Toon...

Anyone can live in Newcastle, but growing up here is something indescribable.

It’s beautiful, it’s rough, it’s complicated, but no matter what, there is an undeniable feeling of camaraderie between everyone born and raised here in Newcastle. It’s a beating heart of loyalty that runs like the River Tyne through yourself, your family, your neighbours, and the man who runs the corner shop down the road. You have this massive Geordie tribe as your built-in family before you can even comprehend your own kin. But simply just being born in Newcastle isn’t the only part of being a Geordie; it’s so much more than that.

“Everyone here works and strives to be their best. From the strong women in my family to the unmatched dedication you see at St James Park...”

Being a Geordie is racing down the Beehive Road to see Grandma; it’s visits to The Quadrant to see Gran; it’s days out at the coast to play on the arcades; it’s the feeling of St James Park on matchdays; it’s

spending the summer at the Hopping’s; spending Christmas watching Fenwick’s window and walks along the Sheilds fish quay and passing Knotts flats on the way.

They may seem like simple things, but as I look back now, I can see they stand for something much bigger. These experiences emphasise the hard work and the graft, which is grounded within Newcastle. Everyone here works and strives to be their best. From the strong women in my family to the unmatched dedication you see at St James Park, understanding this feeling of determination and being an active part of it is what makes you a Geordie.

The history and state affairs that stain Newcastle and everything within it have led to this unwavering perseverance. Geordies have been beaten and let down for generations through politics and promises that have turned to dust. For us, hard work has seemed like the only escape. However, this has led to us becoming a steadfast nation who are knotted together in the most beautiful way. Growing up in Newcastle is something I will

Hobby Hub: dance

Aarya Shenoy - Sport Sub-Editor

Leo himself is what makes Aware and Aggravated. He is confident, unapologetic, and disinterested in existing for the pleasure of others. Through this, he encourages the listener to stop shrinking themselves for the sake of comfort or approval. One episode in particular I always return to is “Reversing the fear of being seen”, where the preconceived notions that the listener may have about others’ perception of them are challenged.

"Her ability to admit she is still growing ... is comforting and feels like a conversation with a friend...”

Pretty Lonesome with Madeline Argy is a middle-ground between Mindful Moments and Aware and Aggravated.

The reason I find this podcast inspirational is how candid Madeline is about anxiety, loneliness, and figuring things out as they go along. Her ability to admit she is still growing and her admission of self-doubt is comforting and feels like a conversation with a friend who understands.

The thing I love about Pretty Lonesome is how it reminds me that you don’t have to understand it all now.

Hearing Madeline sit and work through uncertainty reminds me it is not a weakness, and has helped me reframe my own doubts as evidence I’m growing. It's a comforting perspective shift that leaves me feeling more grounded.

Express yourself without saying a word as dance does all the talking..

It’s difficult to imagine dance not being a part of my life. As a shy child, it was always a way to express my emotions and thoughts without having to say a thing. My movement would do all the talking. Dancing is incredibly versatile. Competitively and professionally it’s a sport and an art form wrapped into one – but it is also letting loose in a club, dancing in your bedroom away from prying eyes, and having a shimmy in the kitchen whilst you cook.

“It builds camraderie when you help eachother through choreography and laugh

It’s a way to make lifelong friends, to connect with people you don’t share a language with, and to explore yourself in a way that you wouldn’t otherwise have the opportunity to. Newcastle has their own dance club, with around 400 members – so there’s always someone for everyone. Ballet, jazz, contemporary, street, tap, lyrical, you name it, and they have got it. It does not matter if you’ve been dancing for most of your life, or if you’re looking to take

up a new hobby because there’s a class for every skill level. It is such a supportive environment, not just from the teachers and the committee, but absolutely everyone around you in class. It builds camaraderie when you help each other through choreography and laugh together when something ridiculous happens. It is a bond that is very rarely broken.

“As a girly that dances through the streets to romanticise life, dancing is a great way to just let loose...”

As a girly that dances through the streets to romanticise life, dancing is a great way to just let loose and switch your brain off. You do not have to join a class either! Book a studio, play music so loudly from the speakers that they can hear you through the walls and create your own

In some ways, dancing is ingrained in all pulled through time from all our heritage. A way to court, to tell tales as old as time, to share culture. It is a hobby I would absolutely endorse taking up and exploring yourself (not that I’m biased in any way at What’s the worst that can

Kate Sturrock

Image source: Tim M, Dupe

Image credit: Izzy Whitley

Image source: Diosk2k, Pixabay

Image source: Ella Laughmiller, Dupe

Relationships

Dream dates: Newcastle's best date spots

Miriam Nigrone

Find your next date location from this list of the most romantic date locations in the Toon...

Let’s talk about dream dates on a student budget. Newcastle can be super romantic when looking in the right places even though it can be seen mainly as a 'party' city. After living here for three years and going on thousands of dates with my partner, I have finally found my three top choices.

The first one being my favourite restaurant Portofino on the corner of Dean Street. As soon as you step inside it feels like you have left Newcastle and are suddenly transported to the South of Italy. The beautiful tiled covered arches, Victorian style walls, and warm lighting really sets the romantic feel for your date. The restaurant itself serves great Italian food and is owned by a family which makes the atmosphere even more dreamy.

“The walk itself is beautiful especially in autumn when all the leaves are changing colours...”

The second option might be surprising but Jesmond Dean, though it may be just a regular park to people who know it, can make a cute romantic walk date. The walk itself is beautiful especially in autumn when all the leaves are changing colours, the stream is beside you and the waterfall at the end (even if artificial) is a beautiful sight. There is also a small pet farm with animals and a café with the best Oreo hot chocolate. If you and your partner are more of an outdoorsy kind of couple, I would recommend it - and the best part about it is it’s free!

“The pubs such as The Tyne Bar and the Ship Inn are very romantic especially during the evening...”

Now for my final recommendation, I would say Ouseburn. When I mean Ouseburn, I do mean the whole area. The pubs such The Tyne Bar and the Ship Inn are very romantic especially during the evening, just be careful as they tend to get quite busy. Another thing in Ouseburn would be the markets; they have all sorts and can be such a fun activity with your partner on a slow Sunday. These are all my recommendations, and I hope all the couples reading will enjoy them as much as I do.

Grief: it gets better, I promise

Sasha Cowie - Sports Sub-Editor

Discussing my experience with grief...

On the 7th of August last year, my best friend died out of nowhere. A day before, we’d arranged to meet for coffee the following week, to catch up after a few months apart since starting at different universities, and then she was gone.

Grief has a strange way of catching you off guard. We all know, somewhere deep down, that life does come to an end. But when someone you love dies suddenly, that knowledge means nothing. The world splits open in silence, and you’re left standing in the middle of it, trying to understand how everything can look the same when nothing is.

"Over time, I’ve learned that grief doesn’t disappear; it changes shape.”

Poppy died from CPVT - a rare heart condition I didn’t even know existed. There was no warning, no long goodbye. Just an ordinary day that stopped being ordinary forever. The shock didn’t fade for months; it lingered quietly in the back of my mind, twisting itself into random things I did. I’ve never been good with grief - I don’t think I ever will be. I’ve lost people before: my friend Emma, who passed away from leukaemia when I was young, and my grandparents, who were elderly and ill. But losing a friend at the age of 20 when I'm older and can understand death a lot better compared to when I was young, a death that comes out of nowhere, is hard, and Poppy’s death was different. It came without reason, without time to prepare, without a goodbye.

We grew up together through school and sixth form, and honestly, I don’t think I would have made it through without her which might seem cliché to say but I do truly mean it. We studied Classics together for six

years, which is what led me to study Ancient History at university now. Sixth form was a hard time for me, for a lot of reasons, but Poppy was always there - with her quiet reassurance and her warmth. When she died, it felt like the comfort she’d given me through that time vanished too. The person who’d helped me through my hardest moments was suddenly gone, and with her went the strength she had helped me find.

People say grief comes in stages, but mine didn’t. It came in waves. Some days I felt almost normal; others, it hit me like hearing the news from her mum all over again. I tried everything - keeping busy, talking to friends, even ignoring it altogether - but nothing made it make sense. You can’t fix grief. You can only live through it.

Over time, I’ve learned that grief doesn’t disappear; it changes shape. It softens into something that will probably always be around. Some days it still catches me off guard - when I read something I’d have sent her, or when I picture what she’d be doing now. But those moments, painful as they are, remind me how lucky I was to

Notes from Newcastle: everything not to miss

Jemima Ashton-Roberts

Take advantage of all Newcastle has to offer with this guide...

YThe charity her incredible family set up - The Poppy Light Foundation - has become a beautiful way to keep her light alive. It supports young people with inherited cardiac conditions, and I Her death taught me that love doesn’t end when

ou’ve just moved to a new city, you don’t know your surroundings very well, and you might not have a big group of friends to comfort you. As daunting as this may seem, you are in the best position to make a fresh start and make the most of all your opportunitiesand trust me there are a lot. My first tip would be to get involved! Saying yes is the best thing you can do and the best way to meet new people. Newcastle offers so many societies ranging from sport to education to hobbies. Join one! Try something new and immerse yourself in all it has to offer because future you will not regret it.

“...say yes to anything and everything. You meet so many new people this way who may end up being your friends for life.”

How to maintain your long-distance friendships

Long distance is one of those two-word phrases that typically strikes fear into the hearts of anyone who hears it. Whether you’re a domestic or international student, moving away from home can be daunting, and it sometimes means feeling like living out two different lives: one 'back home,' and another in your 'new home.'

The disconnect between your two ‘lives’ can make it hard to stay in touch with your friends back home because you each lead different lives, and sometimes lifestyles - you might be doing things you never thought you would before you started university. The 'long distance guilt' and “I’m so sorry, I was busy” text that follows a missed call can be overwhelming, but it’s okay to be busy and not give each other the same amount of attention. You just aren’t in each other’s lives in the way you used to be.

As cliché as it sounds, communication is most certainly key. Let your friends know what you’re dealing with because it can take somewhere between a day, to three months to orient yourself, and you won’t always have time to keep in rigorous contact. Sometimes a “Sorry, I got busy” text is more than enough, and scheduled phone calls will give you both a chance to catch up on what’s been going on in your little corners of the world.

How people keep in contact varies depending on the person. Some long-distance friends talk

every day, and some talk once a month. Your mode of communication can also vary, with so many options available to you, like WhatsApp, Snapchat, Instagram and even email or snail mail, if you really want to be old-school. Don’t feel obligated to speak to your friends more than you feel is necessary because co-dependency is never healthy; you’ll eventually find your rhythm and fall into patterns that work for you both. While it may be tricky to navigate as you both

“..you’ll eventually ... fall into patterns that work for you both.”

grow into different people, you’ll find that it’s not always a bad thing. You’ll learn to complement each other, and your differing experiences will strengthen a bond that already exists. Long distance friendships are a lot like sourdough starters: you take them out of the fridge, feed them, and then put them back. You know they’re there, and the fact that you don’t talk to them every day doesn’t mean that you care less, it just means you have the space to go about your everyday life without worrying until the next time you need to feed it. The most important thing by far is being patient with your friends and especially with yourself. Making mistakes only means having a baseline to learn from, and it will make maintaining your relationship easier down the line.

Secondly, explore your surroundings. Whether you are familiar with the city or have never visited before living here, there is always somewhere new to be found! Newcastle is home to some amazing cafes and independent shops as well as beautiful parks. Olive and Bean do great affordable breakfast and lunch food, and if you are a pasta lover, Zucchini Pasta Bar serves delicious homemade pasta at good prices. Coffee wise, Jesmond is bursting with incredible local cafes and bakeries. Namely, Local, Pink Lane Bakery and 1901 or, if you are looking for something closer to uni, Claremont Teahouse is excellent for coffees and food such as their renowned bagels.

“Maximise what the city has and take every opportunity!”

If you are looking to escape the bustling city centre, Jesmond Dene is beautiful and a tranquil park, or if you are willing to travel a bit, the Tynemouth beach is wonderful. Make the most of having a seaside town right on your doorstep! Going for a swim followed by a coffee and a cake at one of the coffee shops can be the perfect weekend activity. The Town Moor has some tennis courts to hire which are amazing for when the weather is good and you feel like some social exercise. Not to be missed, Quayside and Ouseburn are home to some fantastic bars and markets which should not be overlooked! I hope this short guide gives you the inspiration to explore and get involved with what’s on offer. My biggest piece of advice would be to say yes to anything and everything. You meet so many new people this way who may end up being your friends for life. Maximise what the city has and take every opportunity!

Image source: No-longer-here, Pixabay

Image source: Navi, Unsplash (bird), Ben Hershey, Unsplash (ball).

Image credit: Elin Auld

Image source: Lucas George Wendt, Unsplash (leaves)

Image credit: Sasha Cowie

Raeesah Parker

Rate the Date

Did you have anything in common? I wouldn’t say we had much in common, but we had some good conversations and a good laugh

How did you find the activity?

We didn’t play crazy golf, but we did play pool and darts! The venue was a nice vibe, and we had a good time

Do you think you will see each other again? No, probably not - but we did have a good time

Rate the Date

What were your first impressions of your date? Everyone was nice, no expectations and we just had fun

How did you find the activity?

We only had time for pool and Electric Darts, but it was very fun even still. I don't really remember who won what, but we had a good laugh in the process

Do you think you will see each other again? I'd like to see everyone again as friends, it would be interesting to see where it goes

Your dilemma of the week

For your troubles big or small, Agony Aunt is here to solve them all...

Want your dilemma solved in the next issue? Scan the QR code to send your worries away!

Dear Agony Aunt, It's my first time living away from home. It's not really the workload that's bothering me or anything specific to campus life - just that I don't feel like the same person I was before. It's like an identity crisis as a fresher. How can I balance old, home town me with the new, big-city me?

From, A Reader

Dear Reader, It’s only natural to feel a little conflicted during such a big shift in your life. First year in particular marks a prominent change in your progression but I'm sure many other students, even in higher stages, will have experienced similar feelings. I’d say it’s important to note that you don’t necessarily have to consider yourself one or the other: small town dweller or big city newbie- the beauty of being a student is that you get to be both. Whilst identify struggles can feel daunting to navigate, highlighting the positives of each persona and creating a kind of franken-identity might be the best course of action. The niche aspects of your history; the town you grew up in, your teenage mischief and habits set you apart from others on campus and leave room for some individuality. At

the same time, the shared experience of coming to grasps with a new city and your university endeavours like degree and societies subscribe you to the communal elements of student hood. During these formative years, how you view yourself is constantly evolving, one on hand you’re the same you that you’ve always been and on the other, there’s so much growth to account for.

Stability in your identity will come with time but for now, just embrace getting to know yourself in this new city - and your hometown will always be there for you.

Korben, 22, Lingustics and MFL

Charley Dobson - Blind Date and Agony Aunt Coordinator

Charlotte, 19, Business and Finance

Fashion & Beauty

Newcastle Fashion Show: a guide to the city's newest fashion event

Mia Wijayatilleke - Fashion & Beauty Sub-Editor

Everything you need to know about the upcoming student event...

New to the city this year, Newcastle Fashion Show is an event for both Newcastle and Northumbria students to get involved on the runway, strutting their stuff at St James’ Stack on 13th November.

Organised by the same group as Fight Night and Blinkers races, Newcastle Fashion Show offers an exciting student event for those less drawn to the boxing ring or racecourse. Societies are invited to send one of their members down the runway, following one of three themes.

The first, Recycled Runway, encourages catwalk-worthy looks made entirely out of trash. In the age of overconsumption and fast fashion, this is a great option to encourage creativity and sustainability. The Last Rodeo, another theme, draws on Western style, calling for cowboy boots and denim. The third theme, Murder on the Dance Floor, embraces

all things glitter, with the fashion show’s social media declaring “We want you looking like a walking disco ball”.

“...there are cash prizes up for grabs for the most stylish societies...”

Sylvia Ruckledge, a student at Newcastle University, was asked to represent Newcastle University Dance Club as a model. Whilst hesitant at first, she claimed that she took the opportunity as a chance to step out of her comfort zone. As well as the chance to walk the runway, the event provides the oppportunity to participate in social media promotion. Newcastle Fashion Show’s Instagram and TikTok has begun introducing viewers to the models through headshot posts and short-form video content.

“...embraces the creativity and style of the student community in Newcastle.”

there are cash prizes up for grabs for the most stylish societies, with first place winning £250.

Ruckledge explained that she will walk the runway twice. The first outfit will be curated by the Newcastle Fashion Show, featuring brands chosen by the team. The second look gives Dance Club creative freedom to

As for what to expect on the day, Ruckledge states that the details are not yet confirmed. However, Newcastle Fashion Show’s social media promises an “one unforgettable night” at the iconic venue, featuring both “local and global brands”.

Tickets are currently on sale on Montizumo for £13, but prices are expected to rise closer to the event. Whilst there is still plenty left to be revealed, the event looks to be a fun night out that embraces the creativity and style of the student community in Newcastle.

2005 fashion in 2025: a look at the fashion of 20 years ago

How the highlights of '05 are still relevant today...

Back when YouTube was beginning and Destiny’s Child was ending, the 2005 runway was creating eradefining pieces and revolutionary moments in fashion. Revisiting the spring 2005 fashion collections means being met with eclectic glamour, boho-chic and indie vintage aesthetics. notable designers for this revolution is the one and only Alexander McQueen. McQueen curated an effortlessly maximalist and nostalgic collection in ode to Hitchcockian Glamour, referring to the 1950s-1960s film director, Alfred Hitchcock. The demonstrated a rock through high drama and elegant pieces. Fitted blouses, lace skirts and various ballet pumps were common denominators throughout the show. Ironically, two decades on, these forms of clothing are all back on the shelves and seen on the streets.

high culture. In retrospect, the influential power of these spring collections not only demonstrates the unlimited colour ways and creativity the era but furthermore establishes the legacy it has on today's fashion aesthetics. Today's autumnal fashion is met with a meta-scope of browns, messy layers, and

“...demonstrates the unlimited colour ways and creativity of the era...”

Elie

Spring 2005, was responsible for providing us with high-glamour and unapologetically loud nostalgic dresses. The

vibrant gowns and beautifully emanated the art of Y2K influence in

accessories, Jacobs curated a visionary show that mirrored the styles of 2005. The retro pairing of browns with opposing vibrant colours is a modern autumnal trend. The current ‘fashion-tok’ phenomenon has a lot of pastels and browns matched

How to stay warm and fashionable

Ffion Oliver

An outfit that good should never be hidden under a coat!

Newcastle might be an iconic night out, but that’s only as long as your toes survive the winter weather without turning blue. The freezing temperatures of the North (especially after midnight) are no match for a mini skirt and a tiny top, but we face it anyway in the name of fashion. However, you don’t always have to sacrifice style to combat the club queue shivers!

“It's ... worth investing in one or two long-sleeved going out tops...”

A coat or jumper is the most obvious way to keep warm when out on the Toon.  If you’re opting for a chilled pub or bar night, a versatile jacket can easily be a staple of your outfit. In the club, though, it can be annoying once you’re inevitably overheating inside. A thinner cardigan or a jumper is easier to tie around your waist or a handbag strap, and will still keep you warmer when you leave. It's also worth investing in one or two longsleeved going out tops — even a thin layer over your arms makes a difference!

Aside from the easier solution of an extra layer, practical accessories such as leg warmers and tights are fashionable and help to fight off night-out hypothermia. You can easily mix and match colours and patterns to make these accessories flow and blend into your outfit. A staple of my night out wardrobe is a pair of red tights that I force into almost every outfit for a colourfully warm layer.

“... a thin scarf is a simple way to elevate an outfit (and your temperature!)”

Your usual scarves and gloves can be given a new life, too. Warm gloves are easy enough to shove into a pocket or bag once out of the cold, and a thin scarf is a simple way to elevate an outfit (and your temperature!). Alternatively, opt for a thicker scarf that can double up as a shawl for your walk home.

Don’t be afraid to be a bit bolder in the name and warmth— adding some extras to your outfits can make all the difference in the colder seasons. A night out is a lot better when your limbs aren’t frozen!

Saab,

couture show was fuelled with

Ella Hewitt

Image source: Ella Laughmiller, Dupe

Image source: kropekk_pl, Pixabay

Image source: Kinjal Sanchaniya, Unsplash (top), ClkerFree-Vector-Images, Pixabay (cloud)

Image source: Alexandra Ruggieri, Dupe

The perfect outfits for Bonfire Night

You've got to wear something cute for the fireworks, right?

Bonfire Night is approaching and so is the dreaded outfit planning. Here's some ideas to save you from the fate of re-wearing last year's leggings and a leavers hoodie.

Knit jumpers for autumn? How original. But jumpers are the perfect way to stay warm and look lik How original. But jumpers are the perfect way to stay warm and look like you’ve walked off a Pinterest board. White, cream, black and red are basics because they work. They will fulfill your Rory Gilmore dreams and ensure you don’t freeze in a field as you wait for the fireworks to start. I would recommend a baggier jumper for optimal warmth. However, if your coat is more fitted then a less bulky jumper would be ideal, so you won’t be uncomfortable.

“... there's nothing worse than the wind getting through the gaps in a knitted jumper.”

I will also recommend that you layer a long sleeve underneath just in case because there’s nothing worse than the wind getting you through the gaps in a knitted jumper. If you want to go

for a trendier look rather than classic, an offthe-shoulder jumper is the way to go, either a more slouchy piece with one shoulder out or the Regina George-esque entirely off-shoulder look. Now for footwear, you are going to think that Uggs are a good idea, they are not. That field will get muddy from so many people walking on it and it will probably have rained. You will ruin those poor Uggs, don't do it to yourself. I would say to opt for Doc Martens or a pair of trainers that you don’t particularly care about, even wellies have become a fashion trend that is both somehow chic and ideal for the season.

Baggy jeans are almost always and outfit staple and I think that sacrificing them to the mud is acceptable in this case. If you want a warmer alternative, a pair of fleece-lined leggings will keep you toasty throughout the night. Tights and a skirt are also a good combo but I would definitely go for the thickest tights you own.

As for accessories, scarves are a must, the bigger the better in my opinion. A woolly hat is always fun and you will be thankful for it and of course, gloves! I always forget them but I am so thankful when I don't, I'd definitely say they are the most crucial item for Bonfire Night.

Clothes on pets: cute or cruel?

just simply acting unlike themselves show you whether or not to keep going with the ‘outfits’.

A discussion on the ethics of animal clothing...

There is nothing cuter than seeing a pet in a colourful jumper, but is this really fair to them? Is it fair to put our needs of entertainment onto an animal that can’t fully communicate its discomfort?

Whilst dressing up your pet in clothes is cute as a concept, it is unlikely they enjoy it - of course there are exceptions - but most pets just aren’t fussed about wearing anything and would rather just stay as they are. Realistically, would you like to be stuffed into a cheap shirt just to be laughed at whilst someone takes photos of you? It feels like everyday I open TikTok I see a small dog screaming in some sort of cheap, polyester costume, yet there is no rush to take it off them. Animals may not be able to speak, but it's still clear when a pet is uncomfortable: signs like aggressive behaviour and

“Animals may not be able to speak, but it's still clear when a pet is uncomfortable...”

Of course there are exceptions, some dogs have been found to be comforted during thunderstorms by wearing clothes. Also, there are boots made for pets so they can walk outside without damaging their paws. These are simply practical uses for clothes on pets but there’s also animals who enjoy it. Some pets will happily wear a costume and match you and that’s that, it is very much case-by-case for pets. It would be easy to argue that clothes on pets in unethical towards the animals, and also that it’s a clear case of overconsumption, but it is more complex than that; it totally varies from animal to animal. One cat might screech at the idea of wearing a coat whilst another would embrace it. I think the main thing is to just understand your pet and look for the cues for if they’re uncomfortable.

How to get involved with fashion on campus

An interview with the Writing Director of Newcastle University Fashion Society...

Have you ever dreamed of being one of the biggest designers in fashion? Or have you had visions of your name being printed in a featured article for Vogue? Perhaps, you even want to be on the very cover...

If so, it can feel very daunting knowing where to start - especially when trying to break into such a competitive industry. But fear not! Because, here on campus, there are so many ways to pursue your passion for fashion.

In an interview with Ella Hewitt, the Writing Director and Welfare Officer for Newcastle University Fashion Society (NUFS), she explained the three main pathways the society offers which include: modelling, design and sewing, and writing.

This also gives models the necessary experience to partake in the society's most coveted event - the fashion show! Usually held in June, models will sport the hard work that students in the design pathway create. In this particular pathway, people can attend different sessions which are all for varying levels of expertise. Here, you can develop or enhance your design and sewing skills and put your creative ideas out there for everyone to see.

Ella said: "With the modelling pathway, it provides students with the opportunity to explore different techniques in modelling... and it really helps to build their confidence.

“...models get the opportunity to wrok

with professional photographers...”

We [also] join with the photography society to go to Caviar Studios by the Quayside where models get the opportunity to work with professional photographers in a professional setting."

Speaking of the fashion show, NUFS also offers a range of thrilling events, consisting of both sober and drinking socials. The main winter event the society will be throwing special 10th anniversary Fashion Society Winter Ball. The dress code is black tie and there will be live music, photographers and a two course meal to look forward to. It sounds like a night you'd deeply regret to miss. Finally, the writing pathway gives people the chance to delve into fashion journalism and write for the society's blog or magazine named 'The Edit' which is now running for it's second year.

Don't be scared to join just because the chaos of freshers week has died down. The fashion pathways are all available to join at any point, however, if you wish to write for the magazine, deadlines are a lot sooner due to strict production dates. But you can write for the blog at any point in time so don't let this discourage you!

“It

sounds like a night you'd deeply regret

to miss.”

Ella adds: "The Edit is a bi-annual release this year. We're doing a winter edition and a summer edition where students can get their work published in a fashion magazine. It also involves the models, designers and the writers. So, its a lovely accumulation of everyone's work over the year."

By the way, it is never too late to join a society!

There is also no expectation that you have to be a fashion expert in order to join the society. Whether you're a complete novice or already have your sights set on being the next Anna Wintour, the fashion society has a space for everyone.

Ella notes that: "I only recently found my footing in fashion. I think once you get out of college and that small town [mindset], you're in such a different space with so many individuals." there is so much to get involved with and sink your teeth into when it comes to fashion on campus. No matter what your interests or abilities are, there is something for everyone. Memberships only cost £10 and being a member also guarantees a cheaper price for

Ella closed off the interview with a final push for people to join the society and stated: "We are such an inclusive society. We have people from so many different backgrounds... and it's so lovely watching people flourish and feel safe within the group. With fashion, it's such an easy space to get involved in. So many people admit that they're not even into any specific [areas of fashion] but they just feel seen and supported."

In summary, I can't really see a reason as to why you wouldn't want to join the society and get involved with fashion. By getting involved, you'll connect with like-minded creatives and contribute to a vibrant community. Here, you don't just have to dream about a future in fashion, you can actually start creating it. So, what are you waiting for? Go buy a membership!

Image credit: Minahil Hamza, Dupe

Image source: ivanna marie, Dupe

Ella Saint - Fashion & Beauty Sub-Editor

Image credit: Ella Hewiit

Image source: Ivan Shimko, Unsplash (polaroid frame)

Maddy Kendall - TV Sub-Editor

Kate Kennedy - TV Sub-Editor

Spotlight on: Seahouses

Ariana Oprea

If you take the train to Chathill and then get on the bus for just another quarter of an hour, you will end up in the beautiful seaside town of Seahouses.

With a traditional cosy, small town atmosphere, you can enjoy a day strolling around the harbour watching Bamburgh Castle on the horizon line. As you get lost in the sunset, you can window shop around the unique boutiques or even venture further to the Farne Islands or Lindisfarne.

As a great starting point for exploring Northumberland’s wildlife, you can buy a ticket on the spot and go on an impromptu boat tour to spot the puffins - or even seals, especially during winter months. Its beautiful sea life is never to disappoint, and if you are lucky, you can even spot dolphins on these islands.

But this is not all! Seahouses has more to offer than you’d expect, and it is no shocking matter that it brings tourists from all around, either just for a day or the whole summer season. From the beach, you can spot the historical Holy Island, or for another great day trip: remember to check the tide times to cross by car! You will be on the same grounds as the first Vikings on the British Isles - judge for yourself whether it deserves its title as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Souvenir Stash: my ring from a girls holiday in Greece

Kennedy - TV Sub-Editor

Finding THE dream ring on the island of Kos... yamas!

Iam admittedly a bit of a holiday hoarder, when I go on holiday it is imperative that I have a souvenir immediately. If I go one day without buying a little bowl, or shot glass, or postcard I could explode. However, despite loving them all, I do have a favourite.

My most favourite souvenir is from my first girls holiday in 2024, we went to Kos which is the most perfect island in all of Greece, and I will love it forever. On one of our last nights, I was desperately searching for a ring- THE ring, the ring of my hopes and dreams.

“The

ring started

a mini tradition of mine to purchase a ring on every holiday...”

It was getting very late and I was worried I wouldn’t be successful in my hunt, but then I came across this jewellery shop that was open at 11pm, the lights were fluorescent and blinding and on one of the outside tables I had a bit of a mooch and saw

Bussin' that!

it. The ring is a spiral, the symbol I have become obsessed with both in meaning and aesthetic, it was the largest size they had, silver and perfect. It was the start and end of my chunky ring journey because simply nothing could come close to her. I have worn this ring every single day since I bought it, every night out, every lecture, through suntans and frostbite the ring has been there. The ring started a mini tradition of mine to purchase a ring on every holiday so I would have a subtle reminder to myself of that holiday, the place and the memories I got with it. It might be a little scuffed and bent in a way where I’m never truly sure if it is or not but I love it all the same.

The fact that I bought the ring on my first girls’ holiday, a core memories of anyone’s twenties, and in my favourite country (being a classics student) it really is my favourite thing that I own. I would run into a burning building for this ring, I would jump off a boat for it, there is nothing I won’t do to not lose this

Top spots you can get to on the bus

Logan Crowley

Where to, driver? North East treasures you can get to from Haymarket Bus Station...

The 21 and under DaySaver can be a lifesaver if you need a break from the hustle and bustle of the city, and for just £3 (or £7.50 if you’re over 21) it’s without a doubt the cheapest and easiest way to get around.

First on the list is Alnwick. This historic market town boasts a range of cosy things to see this autumn. The X15 bus from Haymarket takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes and takes you right into the centre of the town.

Camp America: romance and 12am tantrums

Scarlet Davies - Opinion Sub-Editor

One of our sub-editors shares her brutally honest takes on Camp America...

I’ve worked at a summer camp for the past three years, and have finally decided that this year I will not be returning for a fourth summer. From the so-called ‘Love Island’ claims to screaming kids and seventeen-hour work days, here’s what I think of the Camp America experience.

First off: if you get tired out easily, do not take this job. From an outsider’s perspective, the realities of Camp America sounds like hell. Insanely long work hours and barely any time off for a span of twelve weeks is enough to make anyone go insane. Add on having to sleep in a cabin with ten kids every week and being paid dirt might make someone question why anyone takes the job at all. Sure, it is a lot of work- but one aspect of the job that I loved was that it felt like I was making a difference with my summers. I’m someone who hates sitting around during the summer, and being busy from sunrise until sunset (literally) made me feel like my summer wasn’t just being wasted on Netflix TV shows and the occasional trip to London. Yes, the kids can be difficult and you’ll feel more sleep deprived than the average human should ever be in their lifetime, but it also helps you figure out what you’re good at. Whether it’s diffusing arguments, helping a kid try something for the first time, or just joking about with co-workers, no two days are the same.

"...no two days are the same.”

stunning Alnwick castle is steeped in history, and you might recognise it from one of the many films or TV shows filmed there including Harry Potter, Downton Abbey, and Transformers- The Last Knight. Once you’ve explored the castle and its expansive gardens, you can make your way to Barter Books. This cosy second hand bookshop located in an old train station has all the charms needed on a cold November day from open fires to a lovely café and a model train choo-chooing around. After having a wander around the town centre and picking up a souvenir, it’s time to hop back on the bus to Newcastle.

Next up is another quaint town steeped in history. Corbridge is a 50-minute journey from Eldon Square on the 684/685 bus and makes for a memorable day trip. In Corbridge you’ll find the usual collection of cozy cafes and independent shops as well as the ruins of a roman town located along the infamous Hadrian’s wall. At the site of the roman town there is also a Roman museum containing a

can finish the day with a walk along the scenic River Tyne before getting a hearty meal in one of the villages pubs.

Our final trip takes us south on the 29/28 bus to Beamish. Here we depart again from Eldon Square for an hour-long journey where we arrive at the Living Museum of the North. Beamish

As much as I’d like to say the rumours aren’t true, Camp America is also the nearest you will ever get to Love Island. I met my partner there, and nearly all my friends at camp have had some kind of summer romance during their years at camp. It can be fun and it can also be mortifying- having to look someone in the eye the next morning at work can be a bit awkward- but it does help to distract you from the never-ending workload you have going on. Summer camps are usually stationed in the middle of nowhere, meaning that you and your co-workers get very close, very quickly. But that doesn’t just necessarily mean in a romantic sense: the friends I’ve made at camp have been some of the strongest and most resilient connections I’ve ever had. You cry in front of them, you laugh slightly too hysterically with them; I would easily say that Camp America was worth it just because of the connections I’ve made. It’s a great way to meet people from all over the world, rather than the same five people who live in your student house. So would I recommend the experience to someone? Honestly, it depends on the camp and the person. But I’ve loved my summers at camp, and I think I’ve become better person because of There definitely comes a time where the sleepless nights comforting homesick children doesn’t have the same appeal anymore, but I’m glad that I’ve had the chance to experience it. If you think about it, comforting your friend who’s throwing up in the toilet at 3am isn’t

find yourself on the brink of

Image source: No-longer-here, Pixbay

Image credits: Sophie Jarvis (places) Image source: emshlichter, Pixabay (bus)

Image source: (map) Jeff Djevdet, Flickr Some images may have been manipulated

Image source: Tumisu, Pixabay (pins)

Image source: Mustang Joe, Wikimedia Commons https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/zero/1.0/

Image source: Ben White, Unsplash

Kate

Homeward Bound: why you should visit South Shields

Are you sick of Tynemouth but still looking to get your seaside fix? Well, look no further than the other end of the metro line to South Shields.

Whether you’re a cold water swim lover, or just looking for a day trip outside of Newcastle, this coastal town has plenty to offer.

The Beach

The biggest attraction South Shields has to offer is Sandhaven Beach. This beautiful coastline was named The Sunday Times Best Beach of 2022 for its golden sands and community feel.

It’s got something for everybody, from a surf school to a theme park, but it’s also worth a visit if you just want to sit with a good book in the sunshine.

The Food South Shields is home to two iconic North East food spots.

Time Travel: historical spots to visit in Newcastle

Moving past our very own great fire (granted almost two and a half centuries later), lets explore another iconic feature of the North East – Hadrian’s Wall.

WWelcome to a little wander through The Toon, where we’ll be stopping off at some of the golden historical hotspots through the North East!

If you’ve ever had a wander through the city, you’ll see the incredible architecture – but where better to start than our very own iconic arches?

Built by the Roman Empire in AD 122 on the orders of the Emperor Hadrian, it stretched 73 miles from coast to coast and was designed to mark the northern boundary of the province Britannia.

The wall held up as a great defence against attacks from further north, and included forts, milecastles (hello Wetherspoons mention), watchtowers, and civilian settlements.

It’s a very pretty day trip too! About an hour on the train, pack a picnic and take a hike through the route of the wall – I’d highly recommend it if you ever want to get out of the city!

The first is Colman’s Fish and Chips, an awardwinning chippy that has spawned both a fine-dining restaurant, and a popup in Fenwick’s Newcastle. You can’t beat a classic cod from there!

The second is Minchella & Co. It is the home of ice cream in South Shields, running for over eight decades in the town. No trip to Sandhaven Beach is complete without strolling over to their parlour in the amphitheatre for a 99!

These two spots aren’t the exhaustive list - there are plenty of other amazing places to check out. Ocean Road, also known as The Curry Mile, has plenty of options, or you can visit my favourite South Shields restaurant, Harbour Lights Inn (try the steak!).

Ocean Road, also known as The Curry Mile, has plenty of options, or you can visit my favourite South Shields restaurant, Harbour Lights Inn (try the steak!)

The Culture

South Shields is home to many cultural icons. We have Sarah Millican and Chris Ramsey in the comedy department, and Ridley Scott for all the film buffs.

In terms of music, we have not one, not two, but three winners of The X Factor: Joe McElderry, Perrie Edwards and Jade Thirlwall, the latter two both being from the girl band Little Mix. If you watch the music video for Jade’s ‘Before You Break My Heart,’ you can see many famous sights from her hometown.

The Sport If sport is more your thing, then South Shields has that too! Located next to Bede metro station, Mariners Park (also known as the First Cloud Arena) is home to the local football team. They’ve had a phenomenal start to their season, sitting top of the National League North. They have also progressed to the first proper round of the FA Cup, equalling their best record in the competition. Now is the time to be a Mariner!

Alongside the football, the biggest half-marathon in the UK finishes on South Shields’ Coast Road. Every September, thousands of participants in the Great North Run celebrate line by watching the Red fly high over the North Sea. great day to visit South Shields, even just for the atmosphere!

Those are some of my highlights from my hometown, South Shields. I migh biased, but I think it’s worth a day out!

Built in 1911 for the Armstrong College –the close predecessor of our University – its become a recognisable feature of campus. The building is listed on the National Heritage List for England, and even has a tribute to it on the Malaysian campus too!

Our next stop lies in town, with the Newcastle Theatre Royal. It’s roots date all the way back to 1788, when it was granted its Royal license by King George III to be established on Drury Lane.

It was rehoused in 1837 with its move to Grey Street, in a design by Grainger and Dobson to make it their flagship building within the centre of the city. During a performance of Macbeth – which continually shows its bad luck in theatres – the interior of the building was set on fire and was refurbished with an auditorium in 1901.

The next pitstop on our tour is a lot closer to home – we’ve arrived at Newcastle Castle! Only a quick 15 minutes from the city centre, the castle began as a Roman Fort called Pons Aelius in the 2nd Century, becoming a castle in 1080 when the son of William the Conqueror built it as a wooden fortress.

foundations of it still stand today. Under King Henry III, prison facilities were added in the form of a windowless dungeon (creepy), known as the “Heron Pit” next to the Black Gate. The Newcastle Corporation bought the castle in 1809, with refurbishments added all the way into the 20th Century and now you’re free to explore the place to your hearts content! Our last stop on this tour, (incredibly sad, I know) is by the Quayside – The Tyne Bridge. Built by Dorman Long and Co. to accommodate the increasing traffic, it was the world’s longest single-span arch bridge at the time of construction. King George V opened it up in 1928, and it was considered a prototype for the Sydney Harbour Bridge, which was made by the same design team.

It’s become another iconic figure of the North East, bridging the gap over the River Tyne and associated with the industrial heritage of the area.

King Henry II came along in 1172 and decided

MWhat I wish I knew before moving abroad

oving to a foreign country can be one of the most exciting yet intimidating experiences of your life. Everyone’s experiences different, but there are similar challenges that most people face when moving abroad.  Moving abroad comes with many expectations; however, many times these are not met. Understanding these early can make the transition smoother. I learned these the hard way, but here is your cheat sheet of six points of what to expect when moving to a foreign country.

Culture shock is real

Moving to an unfamiliar environment comes with its consequences. There is a temporary stage where adapting to a new place will come with a rollercoaster of emotions. It is normal to feel out of sync with the world around you. It is normal to feel like you are living in a place where you do not know the rules yet; that, is culture shock. The good news? It gets better. With time, you will learn the rules of the game. With the right exposure, things will naturally come together, until one day, you wake up and what once weird or a difficult thing to accomplish, becomes your new normal.

realize you are not surviving, but thriving. Friendships take time I had this false expectation that when I came abroad, I would make best friends in no time. Unfortunately, that was not the case. That is not to say it will not happen to you, but in most cases, building strong friendships does not happen overnight. Do not stress if it

family, or your routine back home. Loneliness is part of adjusting, and it comes and goes in waves. You will learn to appreciate the loneliness sometimes, as it allows you to learn how to be your own best friend. It will teach you to enjoy your own company and follow a path of self-discovery where you will find comfort in those solo moments. The concept of home becomes a complicated

What once were simple tasks, become challenges

Do you need to get groceries? Go to the doctor? Take the bus? Pay bills? Good luck. Living in a different system, with a different language and expectations, makes everyday tasks feel more complicated. These tasks, that were once basic activities, become complex, but that is okay. We love a challenge. Little by little, these small challenges will make you more resilient. When things do not go your way, it can get frustrating, but keep in mind that every time you figure things out on your own, you become more resilient and confident. Eventually, what once felt impossible becomes routine, and you

campus, and do not scared to talk to people, a casual conversation can turn into a meaningful friendship. Over time, and with patience, you will build friendships that will last you a lifetime, and once you found your people, they become like your family away from home.

“Over time, and with patience, you will build friendships that will last you a lifetime..."

You’ll feel lonely sometimes, and that is okay Loneliness is part of the journey, it does not mean you made the wrong decision. It just means that you are human, and it is okay to miss your friends,

With time, that foreign place you bravely moved to will become your home, but that does not mean you do not have another home awaiting you many kilometres away. When you are in one, you miss the other, and vice versa. At that point, “home” stops being a single place. When saying the phrase “back home”,  you could mean either one. Home becomes less about geography and more about a sense of belonging. The beautiful thing is, you do not have to choose one over the other, but embrace the version of yourself that exists in each one. You will discover new traditions and ways of

Moving abroad is something that will forever leave a mark on you. You will slowly begin to pick up new habits and traditions without noticing. A meal that you once found strange could become a comfort food, or you will start to celebrate holidays that you did not even know existed. This new way of living does not replace the one you had before, but it adds and blends to your sense of identity, leaving a mark.

These are six things I wish I knew before moving abroad. But then again, moving abroad is all about the unknown. It can be scary, but with time and patience, everything comes together. You will not be the same person who arrived, but that is the beautiful part. Every day abroad, you learn something new about yourself and your surroundings. Yes, there will be challenges, but that is what makes moving abroad an unforgettable experience. And one day you will look back and realize how much you have grown, and “home” will never mean just one place again.

Lea Labret

Grace Laidler - NUTV Station Manager

Aarya Shenoy - Sport Sub-Editor

Image source: Katlyn Amelia,

Image credit: Grace Laidler and image source: 4Me2Design, Pixabay (border)

Image source: Alexas_Fotos, Pixabay (frogs and globe)

Image sources: Sarah Cossom, Wikimedia Commons, https:// creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/ (arches) and Andrew Curtis, Wikimedia Commons, https://creativecommons.org/ licenses/by-sa/2.0/. Images may have been manipulated.

Image source: Winged Jedi, Unsplash (mountains)

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Food & Drink

BITESIZED: ramen noodles

Sit down soup places have been my go-to pick me up for years, and while it's not as economical as a multipack of Maggi noodles, I love a gallon of broth-based soup that I know I could never make at home.

Newcastle is host to some amazing (and relatively cheap) ramen bowls if you’re trying not to abuse your bank account and need some sustenance. Chain options like the alwaysreliable Wagamama do a bowl for £12-£17, and Maki & Ramen's comes in at just £7-£9 (even offering a cheeky student discount). With both situated in Eldon Square, it's an easy way to treat yourself to lunch near campus and a great place to gossip over some bok choy with flatmates. The best thing about going a restaurant for ramen is that you can nearly always guarantee that you can get it for under £15, and at places like J.K. you can design your own noodle bowl.

For a casual night its perfect for warming yourself up, creeps in and you find yourself shivering in between lectures, there’s nothing better than running to the arms of a triedand-true ramen bowl.

Can AI really make your shopping lists for you?

Sasha Cowie - Sport Sub-Editor

Spoiler: not really...

AI can do a lot these days—write essays, plan workouts, even design meal plans at the click of a button. But after trying it myself, I’m not convinced it can actually handle something as personal (and unpredictable) as a student’s weekly food shop.

When I asked an AI to create a high-protein shopping list, I was impressed at first. It churned out an organised plan full of nutritious meals and neatly categorised ingredients: quinoa, chickpeas, chicken breast, Greek yogurt, spinach, salmon—the sort of things that make you feel like you’ve got your life together. But once I’d actually done the shop, reality hit. Half of it went off before I had time to cook anything.

The problem is that AI assumes you have unlimited time, energy, and fridge space. It’s great at generating balanced recipes, but it doesn’t understand the reality of student life—long lectures, late nights, and the occasional “I’ll just have cereal for

dinner” moment. A supposedly “simple” dinner

Foods that should taste the same... but don't!

Logan Crowley

It just doesn't make sense...

Have you ever run out of penne and had to have your pesto pasta with spaghetti instead? They should taste the same, but everyone knows the shape of the pasta makes a massive difference. Some foods should taste the same, but definitely don't.

"Whether you’re a fan of the tubes or the wavy shells, I’m sure you can agree that no two crisps have the same

be no reason for this as they all have the same flavouring.

Next up on the list is the humble Dairy Milk. It comes in all forms ranging from the little ones you get in Heroes, Buttons, and bars- and don’t even get me started on the number of different bars you can get. There are the big ones, the little ones with the pictures on, and the classic ‘bubbly’ ones you’d get in a selection pack. I’m a firm believer that the thin little bars are the best. Something about the thinness gives it more of a snap which in

A big contender in this weird category of foods that should taste the same is those combo mixes of crisps. Whether you’re a fan of the tubes or the wavy shells, I’m sure you can agree that no two crisps have the same taste. Anytime I tuck into a bag I’m usually left with all the puffy wheels at the end (which I will still

divisive option yet, is Coca-Cola. You can get it in a can, a glass bottle, a plastic bottle, and in a glass from the pub to name a few. Something about a glass bottle makes it feel crisper and more of a treat, perhaps making it taste better. However you enjoy it, I hope

Sunday

that convenience matters more than creativity when you’re trying to eat well on a budget.

"...it doesn’t understand the reality of student life—long lectures, late nights, and the occasional “I’ll just have cereal for dinner” moment."

There’s also something oddly impersonal about letting AI plan your meals. It doesn’t know that you hate chickpeas or that your tiny freezer can’t fit eight frozen meals. It can’t predict when you’ll grab a meal out or crave something specific. Food isn’t just about nutrition—it’s about habit, comfort, and taste—and that’s hard to translate into an algorithm. So no, I don’t think AI can really do your shopping list. It can offer ideas, but it can’t live your routine. The best lists still come from experience—knowing what you actually eat, what you’ll skip, and what you’ll inevitably end up cooking at midnight.

reopening: we’re all glad Sunday is back, but where did it go?

Erin Neal - Lifestyle Sub-Editor

Your go-to smoothie and pancake spot has finally returned to The Toon...

After bursting onto the Newcastle foody scene earlier this year with eager queues of diners cascading out the door, Sunday Coffee & Kitchen, the much-loved Guisborough-born café brand, is finally back after a long-awaited hiatus, this time in a brand-new city centre location.

When Sunday first opened on St Mary’s Terrace, just a stone's throw away from Newcastle University, it quickly became a North East hotspot after virality struck, making the cafe a well-deserved TikTok sensation. Renowned for its colourful matchas, acai bowls, and famously photogenic pancakes, the destination attracted huge crowds from day one.

"...the destination attracted huge crowds from day one."

The sudden disappearance of the eatery left everyone stunned and dismayed. Their dreamy start came with a rather unexpected hindrance, as just four weeks into trading, owner Sophie shocked loyal customers by announcing on Instagram that Sunday Newcastle was temporarily closing. The reason for the closure was due to a dispute with the building’s agent, certainly not a lack of success. “Sunday is NOT a building. It’s our team, our energy, and our heart,” Sophie wrote at the time via Instagram, promising that this was just a setback, not the end of the road.

Alex Conroy-Gent

Image source: Bon Vivant, Unsplash

Image sources: Evan-Amos, Wikimedia Commons.

Ivan Yerokhin, Unsplash (Coke), and Nikhil, Unsplash (Dairy Milk). Images have been manipulated.

Image credit: Ruby Tiplady

Image source: lukasbieri, Pixabay

The quick meal series: sausage and veggie orzo

Jemima Ashton-Roberts

Why not switch up your current meal rotation with this delicious sausage and vegetable orzo recipe?

It’s approaching the time of year when you’ve made all your go-to meals numerous times, and you may be getting a bit bored of them. If you resonate then this meal might be the one for you and could be your new fixation dish!

"This recipe is very simple and can be tailored to your liking depending on what you have in the fridge at the time."

This recipe is very simple and can be tailored to your liking depending on what you have in the fridge at the time. Additionally, you can be flexible in your measurements depending on the serving size you want. Ingredients wise, you will need: sausages, orzo, onions, garlic,

vegetable stock, mixed herbs, spinach (plus any other vegetables you want to include!) and crème fraiche.

First, chop the sausages in half and remove the skin before frying them in a pan with some olive oil, allowing them to fall into smaller segments.

Leave this to simmer until the stock is absorbed by the orzo up until a slightly runny texture. Then you add the spinach and any other vegetables you wish to incorporate followed by some mixed herbs and leave again to cook for a bit. You can also stir in some crème fraiche here

My go-to drinks for pres

Then add in the onions, finely chopped, as well as some garlic and continue to fry until the onions gain a bit of colour and the sausage pieces are cooked.

Next, pour the orzo into the pan and fry for a minute or two then proceed to add the vegetable stock (a vegetable stock cube or pot mixed with hot water). In terms of proportions, I would suggest a 1:2 ratio of orzo to stock; e.g. for 50g of orzo do 100g of stock.

"Voila! It truly is very easy, and delicious. I find that meals do get quite repetitive at uni and so a switch up is always fun."

Voila! It truly is very easy, and delicious. I find that meals do

The Courier team delve into their favourite drinks to start the night off right...

Ruby Tiplady - Head of Life and Style

PThe Golden Flake Tavern: new Greggs pub comes to town, is it worth the hype?

Your classic Greggs favourites brought to the next level...

For those of you who haven’t heard, Greggs have recently opened a new venue in The Toon. But this isn’t just your standard high street Greggs, it’s a Greggs pub, otherwise known as ‘The Golden Flake Tavern’. Placed inside Fenwick’s on a 4 month pop up, The Golden Flake is transforming our favourite Greggs items into pub classics, and I went along to try out all the

Off the bat, the menu was already looking good before I had even tried any of the food; from 'Steak Bake Mixed Grill', to 'Chicken Bake Parmo' there was so much to choose from. However, I went for the classic sausage roll with mash and gravy alongside a 'Taste of the Golden flake' sharing board. The sausage and mash was beautifully presented, the gravy was rich and flavourful, and the dish genuinely looked like something out of a high class restaurant - at £9.00 you really cannot go wrong.

"...at £9.00 you really cannot go wrong"

The sharing board was equally as good with an array of chicken goujons, mac and cheese bites, a sausage roll and mini chicken bake parmo, alongside an amazing dip selection of hot sweet chilli, and the best tasting pesto I've ever had all for £15.50. However, the food selection cannot outshine the drink selection. The tavern has two of

its own draught beers, 'Gosforth 1939 Stottie Larger' and 'Pink Jamie Pale Ale', as well as four Greggs sweet treat inspired cocktails. I tried the Stottie Lager and the Pink Jamie Fizz cocktail and was blown away by both of them. Traditionally I am a beer drinker, and the Stottie Larger is the best draught pint I've had in a long time. Although it's a little steep at the £6.50 per pint price tag, I would say it's worth every penny and could easily rival your big name drinks. The cocktail, however, has to claim the title for my favourite drink; it seriously tastes like someone has bottled a Jam doughnut. One prosecco glass was quite frankly not enough - again, it was slightly pricey at £11.50, but it could rival any cocktail from a specialist cocktail bar.

"The cocktail, however, has to claim the title for my favourite drink; it seriously tastes like someone has bottled a jam doughnut."

While I was there I found out that they did Sunday carvery, and instead of you picking your choice of meat, you pick between a steak bake, chicken bake, and sausage roll with all your classic roast extras. I will definitely be returning with my friends to try this out, as my experience with The Golden Flake Tavern had only been positive; I'm sure their roast won't disappoint either.

I would highly recommend a visit sooner rather than later, as doors are only open until February; switch up your post night out Big Market Greggs and level up your game. Get yourself down to The Golden Flake Tavern!

res are an opportunity to spend time with your friends before you go out, maybe getting some photos together, and listen to music of your own choice - but, most importantly, pres in a student house are to save money! Despite student drink deals, once you’ve paid club entry, for taxis, and for a bite to eat at the end of the night, any night out can be an expensive one. The solution? Reduce your spending in the club by getting to the ideal level before you go out. A bottle of wine is perfect for this: you can splash out or save on the bottle you buy, you can have a glass while you get ready then take the rest to pres, and you can’t accidentally overpour because it doesn’t need mixers. Plus, if you’ve had enough, you can abandon the bottle at little loss, unlike if you took a bottle of vodka with you.

Olivia Bulman

Wine - that foul-tasting, low alcohol percentage drink. It’s overwhelming to walk into your local, hoping to get a nice bottle of wine for pres, only to realise there are 3 different types, 30 choices of each, and they’re all hugely different in price and alcohol level. It’s too much for a poor student to have to decipher. Now, vodka – reliable, versatile, cheap – will most definitely get you drunk! What more could you ask for, for the perfect pres drink? Granted, unless you’re superhuman, you’ll need a mixer to go with it. Coke is my chosen mixer of choice –however, any juice, fizzy drink or even squash will perfectly match this spirit.

Milly Thompson - Music Sub-editor

I’ve never been a vodka girl. Maybe a vodka lemonade every once in a while, but nothing sounds worse to me than a vodka orange. Now, you might be thinking, vodka coke? Vodka cranberry? But there are just so many better combinations. Rum and coke. Disaronno and cranberry. Ah, there it is. Disaronno, or amaretto, really. I just grab the cheapest bottle I can find from Aldi or Lidl, and it lasts me months. Yes, people might think it’s strange that I’m drinking straight liquor as a pre-drink, but it’s genuinely so tolerable and really hits the spot.

Sasha Cowie

- Sport Sub-editor

Cocktail cans are the unsung heroes of pres. No measuring, no mixers, no mess—just crack it open and you’re good to go. They’re perfect for students who can’t be bothered to play bartender before a night out. Whether it’s a gin and tonic, mojito, or pornstar martini, there’s something for everyone (and you don’t risk making it taste rubbish). Plus, they’re easy to down, pack for house pres, or sneak into places. Lidl cocktail cans are cheap, and you’re paying for convenience and great taste—and honestly, what spirit actually tastes good? Cocktail cans are the way to go. Trust.

Image sources: Katamaheen, Unsplash (sausage), OpenClipArt-Vectors, Pixabay (spinach), Ideativas-Tlm, Unsplash (onion), and Marcuesbo, Unsplash (garlic).

Image credit: Cerys Millard

Cerys Millard

Once Upon a Tyne

The History of Greggs

Welcome back to Once Upon a Tyne, the latest addition to The Courier's Culture section. Once Upon a Tyne will take us back through history to reflect on key eras, events, and dates in Newcaslte-Upon-Tyne and the surrounding areas, and how they have contributed to shaping our city's beautiful culture!

1939

On this year, Greggs was founded by John Gregg - an entire 86 years ago! John Gregg would deliver fresh eggs and yeast to the local residents of Newcastle. He did it all on a pushbike too!

1951 marked the opening of the very first shop! It stood proudly on Gosforth High Street, and is still there today! Albeit, it looks much different to how it did over seven decades ago. Back then, the company was called 'Greggs Bak eries Limited' and kept this name all the way up until 1983!

After John Gregg passed away in 1964, his sons, Ian Gregg and Colin Gregg, took over the business and helped turn Greggs into what it is today.

1964

1951

In this year, Greggs expanded outside of Northeastern England for the first time, establishing a regional division in Glasgow, Scotland! Shortly after this, in 1974, Greggs further expanded into Leeds and Manchester.

Mike Darrington joined the company in 1984 as Greggs' new managing director. Darrington prepared Greggs to make their next major surge in growth and success by beginning to trade on the London Stock Exchange. This would help fund the company's future expansion plans.

2025

As of June of 2025, Greggs currently has 2,649 shops, with 87 opening so far this year! Looking ahead for 2025, there's plans for an additional 140150 new stores. There are 33 Greggs locations in Newcastle specifically, as reported by The Mirror in 2023!

Many Discord users at risk of potential cyber attack

Emily-Maisy Milburn - Gaming Sub-Editor

How will this impact Discord's reputation?

As a result of the Online Safety Act of 2025, Discord was required to ask its users to upload photos of themselves to adhere to government guidelines to ensure the safety of users who are under the age of 18.

When prompted, users took a selfie that was then sent to be verified. In some instances, a second selfie was needed to confirm, and it was those that were breached in a data leak.

On 3 October, Discord confirmed that an unauthorised source gained access to one of its third-party service providers.

On 9 October, Discord went on to claim that the company 5CA, a Netherlands-based customer service provider, was responsible.

“...Scattered Lapsus$ Hunters allegedly breached their support environment and stole 1.6 terabytes of data...”

A group name Scattered Lapsus$ Hunters allegedly breached their support environment and stole 1.6 terabytes of data, including users' government images used for age verification, names, IP addresses and even emails.

What should you do if you believe you have been impacted by the breach?

Discord urges its users to enable Multi-Factor Authentication on their accounts, verify official communications from Discord and 5CA, watch for Phishing attempts and monitor their cards and accounts for fraudulent activities.

This breach adds to the growing concern surrounding the government's approach to Online Safety and the repeated incidents of data leaks and hackers gaining access to sensitive information when users are asked to upload images of government-issued documents to confirm their age.

“This breach adds to the growing concern surrounding the government's approach to online safety...”

Discord has made no further comment on the attack and, despite 5CA's claims that they were not at fault for the breach. Discord do, however, state that, "We (they) take our responsibility to protect

Gaming

Memory Card: Transformers Devastation by PlatinumGames

Jigme Sherpa

Transformers: Devastation is a hack-and-slash action game, developed by PlatinumGames (the same people who developed Bayonetta and Metal Gear Rising) and released in 2015. I think it’s the best game I’ve ever bought, and easily one of my favourite games of all time.

I got it for quite a low price at a small, independent games & collectables store.

Picking up the XBOX 360 version was always going to be cheap, but that didn’t really matter. I can’t remember what the decision process was11-12-year-old me figured a cover of Optimus Prime staring down Megatron and Devastator (a massive Transformer) was enough to convince me to try it.

Loading it up, and being hit by the amazing soundtrack of VinceDeCola; the composer for the original Transformers cartoon movie, with roaring and powerful guitars and synths just hooked me from thereon. The game’s development team was actually filled with many creatives who’d worked on the original series - including surviving original voice actors! Not to mention the art style being a 3D rendition of the original designs- the entire game felt like an episode of the cartoons with you at the steering wheel.

The story follows Optimus Prime and the Autobots on a mission to prevent the Decepticons from “Cyberforming” the earth; facing off against Megatron and his henchmen. Simple enough. Except this time, you’re the one

kicking Decepticon tailpipe. And boy was it fun.

Combat had similarities to that of the Bayonetta franchise (like mentioned before, another PlatinumGames product); incorporating a dodging mechanic to reward timing with opportunities to unleash a devastating counterattack. You can swap between ranged and melee on the fly- and of course, you can transform. Swapping between robot and vehicle mode and chaining combos really gave an ‘omph’ to the combat, and still just gives me a rush of satisfaction. Partner that with the incredible soundtrack, every combat had a feel to it I still haven’t found in any other game I’ve played since. The soundtrack was the bow which tied the entire package together. The game has no qualms about throwing you into the grinder; the first boss fight being against the massive Decepticon, Devastator. Absolutely towering over you; it’s a hell of a way to kick the game off, putting everything you learned in the tutorial to a baptism of fire. Amplify that with the soundtrack, and you had the perfect way for me to spend my day after school. I cannot recommend the boss themes enough, give em' a listen! I invested hours into this game, and after my XBOX 360 kicked the bucket, the first thing I did on my new console was get a copy of Devastation to make me grin again, just absolutely through Decepticons and feeling like a cartoon action hero. It’s such a shame it ended up being delisted and there’s been no plans for a sequel since. Still, it never fails to draw me back for some good old robot violence.

Cryptic Nintendo video revealed to be linked with Pikmin franchise

Elliot Clark

Pikmin! Pikmin! Is there a new game on the horizon?

We all remember the Pixar shorts from the early 2000s onwards, whether its Jack Jack Attack, Bao or Presto. And on a related note, Nintendo have started to explore the idea of creating similar content.

On 7 October , Nintendo (with very little warning) released a just under 4-minutelong animated video of a baby trying to recover her dummy after an invisible creature stole it from them. The story follows a baby with blonde hair, travelling round the room to find her dummy, all leading to a heartwarming conclusion with their mother watching their first steps. All thanks to this mysterious force; but what even is it?

At first glance, you start to gain an understanding that this video was designed to be linked to the Pikmin universe from context clues alone. The jaunty piano soundtrack, the red, yellow, and blue building blocks, stuffed toys around the room, etc. This was in fact entirely confirmed by Nintendo when they published a sequel to the short but with the whole cast of Pikmin revealed! The video was published a day later exclusively on a calendar and news app called "Nintendo Today!" which I had to download for the purposes of this article. The NEW video includes a whole new variant of the piano

The greatest video game companions

Adam Rickwood

When it comes to video game companions, there are a ton of cute ones that come to mind straight away, such as your Pokémon starter, Dogmeat from the Fallout games and of course, Morgana from Persona 5, everyone’s favourite cat.

All of these could be contenders for the best video game companion; however, when it comes to the best of the best, it’s gotta be someone who’s there for you in your darkest hour, and for that, one of the picks for the best video game companions in my eyes would be Torrent in FromSoftware’s Elden Ring. He is the players’ knight in shining armour from the moment you drop into the world. When you feel scared, who do you call? Torrent. When you need to climb up to high ground, who do you call? Torrent? When you need to run from a boss that would devour you whole, who do you call? Torrent. He is always there for the player throughout most of the game, and his absence at times is felt when you try to call him to no avail. Fighting Dragons and other big bosses become much more manageable with him around, and traversing is a breeze on this spectral steed that chose you.

“...Sonic may be the fastest Hedgehog, that doesn't make him the most rational and smartest.”

soundtrack with more instruments being added to the music, all the Pikmin mischief now visible on camera and a variety of adorable little Pikmin sounds. After the moment of the first steps, the Pikmin start to bloom which honestly made me tear up just watching it.

You might be wondering, is there a new Pikmin game coming out?! Sadly, this hasn’t been confirmed as of yet. I know, we are all disappointed too… However, Nintendo did state that "Nintendo Pictures will continue to explore new creative possibilities through video content." This new concept for Nintendo could be sparked from their work on the new Super Mario Galaxy Movie currently in production, and maybe Illumination encouraged them to work on other ways of engaging an audience: short form content. While Pikmin 5 is not exactly in the works, speculation has definitely been fuelled from the film, with some viewers guessing that the concept of ‘invisible Pikmin’ could be a new feature in later games. Although it could be inferred that a parent’s imagination is not as creative as a little baby’s could ever be and so they cannot see the hundreds of Pikmin around the room, which may be what Nintendo is trying to get at here.

What franchises are you looking forward to seeing in a short film? I for one am looking forward to seeing what Nintendo has in store for these Pixar-like short stories, although personally I’m desperate for a short film on either Kirby or Rhythm Heaven

The original video can be watched on the Nintendo YouTube accounts.

Another Pick for best companion would have to be Miles “Tails” Prower from the Sonic games. He is Sonic’s day one and his best friend who has helped him through the toughest of situations, as while Sonic may be the fastest Hedgehog, that doesn’t make him the most rational and smartest. He can even be quite cocky at times but with Tails’ big IQ and being real tech-savvy he’s constantly able to back up Sonic when he needs it, especially all the times Eggman flies off and Tails has to tail him with his plane with Sonic in tow to foil his plans. Now this last one might be seen as controversial considering the state of the games initial release but Glamrock Freddy from FNAF: Security Breach is one of those loveable guys even if he’s useless when he decides to not come to your aid cause of the games bugs but he’s a safe place in a Pizzaplex full of horrors and mystery, he guides and encourages you even when he’s not with you, I just love it when he calls the protagonist superstar comforting the boy when everything else around him is out to get him. Freddy is someone he can rely and run to when in danger, when he doesn’t just run straight past you and leave you to die like he did many time in Markiplier’s letsplay of the game but thats besides the point, Glamrock Freddy is just a sweet bundle of joy and my favourite iteration of the many Freddy Fazbears that exist in the Universe. There are so many other companions that could easily be considered the best; it all comes down to how they helped your gaming experience!

Image credit: Sam Mason

Image source: Boitumelo, Unsplash

Image credit: Sam Mason

Image source: Arseny Togulev, Unsplash

Mercury Prize awards 2025

Emma Monaghan & Milly Thompson - Music Sub-Editors

From Pulp to Pa Salieu, the Mercury Prize proved British music’s brilliance knows no postcode...

My first ever awards show felt surreal. The Mercury Prize has always existed for me on TV screens and timelines, but being there in person was something else entirely, a fascinating glimpse into what felt like a human zoo. Watching artists mingle, congratulate, and quietly compete was almost as entertaining as the performances themselves. I especially loved seeing Grian Chatten deep in conversation with Sam Fender and Lewis Capaldi, worlds of modern British music colliding naturally.

Fender’s win felt both predictable and inevitable. There was a sense throughout the night that this would be his moment, and when it came, it didn’t disappoint. Some might argue the outcome was obvious, but that didn’t cheapen it. If anything, it strengthened the sense of occasion. This was a win for the North East, and the first Mercury Prize ceremony to take place outside London made it all the more meaningful.

The performances were a celebration of just how diverse the British music scene continues to be. Pulp opened the show beautifully with ‘Spike Island’, Jarvis Cocker effortlessly

The Courier Online 's best albums of the year

The Mercury Prize is a wellrecognised award celebrating the incredible albums of those we know and love. With the awards being held in Newcastle for the first time ever, we decided it would only be right if we made our own predictions before the event. We uploaded a poll on  The Courier Instagram story asking, “Who’s your winner?” and here’s what we found:

Fontaines D.C. - 'Romance': 28.1%

Sam Fender - 'People Watching': 24.8%

Pulp - 'More': 11.1%

CMAT - 'Euro-Country': 8.5.%

PinkPantheress - 'Fancy That: 7.8%

Wolf Alice - 'The Clearing': 7.8%

FKA Twigs - 'Eusexua': 4.6%

Jacob Alon - 'In Limerence': 2.0%

Martin Carthy - 'Transform Me

Then Into a Fish: 2.0%

Pa Salieu - 'Afrikan Alien': 1.3%

Emma-Jean Thackray - 'Weirdo': 1.3%

Joe Webb - 'Hamstrings and Hurricanes: 0.7%

Sam Fender went home with the award at the end of the night, with his showstopping third album 'People Watching.' With his discography heavily influenced by Newcastle, it felt like a truly deserved, closeto-home win. However, with Fontaines D.C. winning our predictions with28.1%, did they truly deserve this highly commended award?

commanding the stage. FKA Twigs’ ‘Eusexua’ was hypnotic and bold, Wolf Alice’s Ellie Rowsell captivated with power, and Emma-Jean Thackray delivered one of the night’s most intriguing sets. It was a shame CMAT couldn’t perform, but at least Newcastle fans won’t have long to wait for her return next month.

Fender’s own performance of ‘People Watching’ was even more powerful the second time around. Maybe it was the emotion of the win, or the pride of performing in front of a home crowd, but it felt triumphant: a moment that perfectly captured why this night mattered.It felt triumphant: a moment that perfectly captured why this night mattered.

For one evening, the spotlight shifted away from London and shone on a region too often overlooked in the music industry. And as the crowd celebrated a local hero’s victory, it felt like something bigger than a trophy, a moment of recognition for the North itself.

Amelia Thompson, Music Sub-Editor

For me, attending The Mercury Prize felt unimaginable. The sheer capacity of the event, along with the attendance of artists I have admired for years, felt more esteemed than any event I've attended before. There truly is a different atmosphere at an awards show, a taste of tension in the air that just makes it even more thrilling. Every album nominated felt carefully curated and artistically detailed, and their

performances showcased this. Pulp's opening felt like a heavy statement, speaking to the judges that their album isn't just built on 'nostalgia', but a completely new, heavily detailed project. Jarvis Cocker's stage presence was as theatrical as ever, truly reminding the audience of Pulp's essence, and why they were nominated.

A performance that particularly impressed me was Pa Salieu's 'Allergy' from his album 'Afrikan Alien.' Not only was he brimming with energy, but his music unveiled a sense of identity, belonging and lack of that many listeners can relate to. It felt like the only nomination that truly embodied a sense of cultural diversity, enhanced by the albums difference in genre (UK rap and afrobeats fusion) to the typical Mercury nomination.

However, one complaint I have from these awards so culturally significant, was that it felt too systematic. For an awards show full of albums so creative, diverse and out-the-box, the actual evening felt so over regulated. I felt it was just a chronological performance of each nomination, with a huge lack of interviews, mentions of tours and other elements that could've been engaging.

Despite this, The Mercury Prize remains an award so classified for a reason. Every artist nominated was truly inspirational to the music industry and deserved all the praise. It felt like a fitting celebration for the artists that work so hard to make a difference, not just musically, but culturally and politically.

Emma Monaghan, Music Sub-Editor

Live review: Pale Waves

Erin Parkes

Immersive and unforgettable - Pale Wave's show at The Fire Station!

For those who’ve never heard of or listened to Pale Waves, their recent tour is proving to be an unmissable opportunity to take, for both diehard fans and new listeners. Having delivered such an intensely powerful live performance in Sunderland on the 13th of October, not attending the tour would be a mistake.

The Still Smitten tour aims to feature and continue the tour of the bands Smitten album, released in 2024. Having felt their last tour in 2024 was short-lived - visiting only 12 UK cities - the band felt it necessary to do the album justice by touring a second time.

Pale Waves recent show in Sunderland is bound to get current ticket-holders excited for their upcoming venues on tour. Despite the tour being in its early stages, the setlist has been praised for its wellbalanced blend of new and old material, creating an immersive and unforgettable experience for both new and old fans. The setlist included hits from previous albums such as ‘She’s My Religion’, ‘Jealousy’, ‘There’s a honey’ and ‘Change’, while also featuring songs such as ‘Glasgow’, ‘Perfume’, and ‘Not a Love Song’ from their newest album, Smitten. As if that wasn’t enough excitement, lead singer Heather Baron-

Gracie announced that in 2 weeks the bands cover of The Cranberries hit ‘Zombie’ will be released. The indie-rock and pop band set themselves and their sound apart from other artists of the 21st century. While their songs often explore relatable emotions of love, heart break and mental health struggles, Pale Waves sound is both alternative and authentic. Lead singer Heather Baron-Gracie uses powerful lyrics to create an emotional nuance, and buzz that resonates in every song. Giving listeners free rein to feel vulnerable about their real and raw emotions, interpreting their own life experiences to the songs.

“...Pale

Waves have perfected the art of creating music that is both intensely sad and energetically

The student band making waves across Newcastle's music scene...

Newcastle is a city whose cultural exports can go toe-to-toe with anyone, anywhere. We see your Eric Clapton and raise you our Mark Knopfler. It's no wonder, then, that our city's talent translates so seamlessly to a host of campus acts. It's a smaller scale, sure, but Jimi Hendrix once busked on Chillingham Road, so you have to start somewhere!

One such group that has risen to the forefront of the North-East's gig culture is Pearly Gates. Though technically the solo project of Newcastle student Tom Hunt, 'PG' has blossomed into a fantastic showcase of our region's potential. Drawing guest musicians from local bands Ronald Raygun and Porcelain has enhanced an already fantastic sound.

I'm not ashamed to dub myself something of a Pearly Gates 'ultra', having been to around half of the band's lifetime gigs like a 60s Beatlemaniac. It was no different this month at Byker's The Grove, where Hunt and his band were playing the support slot for Low Island, of FIFA 21 fame. The headline act were, of course, fantastic. Promoting their latest album, Bird, Low Island put on a show, and then some. However, it was the development of Pearly Gates that caught my eye. Formed just over a year ago, the band have really come into their own as live performers. From Hunt's own vastly-improved vocals to the introduction of Porcelain's Dan Wright on keys, 'progress' is Pearly Gates' word-of-theday.

upbeat.”

Most definitely it can be argued that Pale Waves have perfected the art of creating music sad and energetically Gracie herself said:  make people dance shows and not kinda just cry: they can cry and dance”

What repeatedly takes new listeners by surprise is the bands gothic look, intentionally creating a striking juxtaposition with their often-bright indie pop sound, adding a compelling layer of personality. Arguably, this is what many newly emerging bands lack - originality.

The bands drummer Ciara Doran confirmed in an interview, when being asked to give her advice for young people getting

“Don’t look at what others are doing or try to replicate or copy what someone else is doing, because it’s never going to be as good as what they’re doing because it’s not

Read more at thecourieronline.co.uk.

If that milestone was a little arbitrary for you, the fact that PG's set consisted solely of self-written tracks puts the band's extraordinary talent beyond any doubt. Previous gigs would sneak in a cheeky crowd-raising Chappell Roan cover to get feet moving and hips swaying, but Hunt now captures that energy with his own words.

"It feels surreal", Hunt says, "seeing the crowd's response - connecting, moving and engaging with the music - really brings the tunes to life even more". Having told The Courier last year that his tracks are made to be played live, you'd struggle not to see how much fun the Darlington native is having seeing his vision realised.

Dylan Seymour - Deputy Editor

Image credit: Erin Parkes

Emma Monaghan - Music Sub-Editor

Image source: Dylan Seymour

Image credit: Tom Hunt, Pearly Gates

Image credit: Emma Monaghan

Album review: The Last Dinner Party - From the Pyre

iconic staple within their discography.

The Last Dinner Party have risen from the flames of stardom once again...

Inspired by themes of debauchery, hedonism and a bubbling female rage, The Last Dinner Party have forged from the ashes a theatrical and indulgingly lustful sound that has followed on throughout their career. It is safe to say that The Last Dinner Party are a special find in todays music scene, overflowing with impassioned with songs that are insanely rich in both its instrumentals and lyricism.

This band have shown that time, for them, is nothing but a commodity, indulging listeners with an abundance of ever evolving sound. Demonstrated through their first single of the album, 'This is the Killer Speaking' the band have set out on a more darkened twist, evolved from the courtly swoons of 'Prelude to Ecstasy.' This maximalist melodrama of revenge, passion and desire, accompanied by its glamourous lyricism is a perfect representation of the albums spellbinding, evocative and, deliciously dramatic feast that has captured listeners devotions. Defying expectations of the ‘industry plant,’ The Last Dinner Party have successfully developed the dramatic baroquepop sound of their debut into a signature and

“... a sinister instrumental and chaotic lyricism that follows an erotic lament,”

Opening with their signature pangs of the theatrical sublime, the band create a scenery of drama and desire in 'Agnus Dei.' Filled with a sinister instrumental and chaotic lyricism that follows an erotic lament, Morris voice is consumed by a devotion vocalising whether her love was ever “enough to make you come? Am I enough to make you stay?” The band's lustrous and ironic elements towards passions of desire sit perfectly within 'Agnus Dei' as a distinct transition between songs from their debut such as 'Feminine Urge' that define the enriched evolution of this London Five's charming sound. Other songs from their album such as 'Riffle' and 'The Scythe' look back on the bands more traditionally soft and pop elements of their sound, with orchestral instrumentals and glimmering choruses, both of these songs focus more on the mature and honest forms of emotion that are separate from the feverish grandeur of its more impassioned songs. As a whole, this album has captivated my attention from start to finish, weaving a plethora of entrancing genres and techniques that have proven The Last Dinner Party to be a band of ever continuous growth and prosperity.

Sam Fender: The Mercury Prize beyond London

Bethan King

Why it's significant for the North East's creative industry...

MThis year the Mercury Prize took it's musical prestige beyond London for the first time, and chose to take residency in Newcastle. Appropriately, it was the city's local hero, Sam Fender, that took home the award for his album People Watching. Unfortunately, the creative industry holds the same North VS South divide that permeates the country in many ways. The award ceremony and it's outcome however, marked the North East as a legitimate player within the music industry: Sam Fender's win in his home city perfectly celebrated the talent that Newcastle has to offer, and the night became symbolic of the growing response to the previous lack of the attention paid towards northern creatives. Arts Council England are currently contributing £383 million worth of funding, over three years (2023-2026), towards Northern organizations. This will provide professional artists with more opportunities that can gain them leverage within their careers. Around the same time, leading figures of the creative industry and local leaders across the North of England have discussed a "Northern Creative Corridor" (NCC) that aims to create a network between the "clusters of creativity" already existent across the country. Government support, investment and infrastructure however are crucial for it's success. The current statistics for Northern Creativity are dire. In 2022, London generated the majority of the creative industries GVA by a landslide of

The Spotify decline

Logan Crowley

One of our writers discusses the current issues listeners are facing with Spotify...

Spotify has ruled over the streaming market for years, but due to many reasons, people seem to be moving away from the platform. Is it in favour of other streaming platforms or a return to physical media?

Firstly, is the issue of artist compensation. With each stream paying artists about $0.004 on average, many listeners feel that there are other ways to support their favourite musicians. Alongside the fact that artist must have 1000 minimum streams in the past 12 months, it makes the platform quite unappealing for emerging talent, especially when compared to Apple music, which has no minimum number of streams and pays a much more generous $0.01 per stream (2.5x more than Spotify). This has led to lots of people questioning if their subscription could be better placed elsewhere and, in the past, many large artists such as Radiohead’s Thom Yorke and Taylor Swift have pulled their songs from the platform for this very reason.

your own playlist, something that others see as a creative outlet. This use of generative AI is something that many listeners find off-putting and a reason to part ways with the service. Whilst on the topic of AI, the CEO of Spotify Daniel Elk has investment ties to the AI defence company Helsing that is known to have a role is Russia’s war on Ukraine. Many artists have recently removed their songs from the platform in opposition to this in hopes that users of the platform will follow.

With physical media making a big comeback, platforms such as Spotify are at threat of declining user numbers. Despite the huge library of music that can be accessed at the click of a button, many are reverting back to vinyl, CDs, and cassettes in favour of actually being able to own the music and access it without paying a monthly subscription fee. The sound quality from CDs and vinyl is also another huge factor in the switch from Spotify and is known to offer a more immersive experience.

As we all know, AI is a massively controversial subject, and Spotify is not spared from the controversy. The Spotify DJ uses the listeners data to create a personalised playlist, and then generative AI narrates this for you. Some people see this as a revolutionary new way to listen to music as it can help take away the effort of making

The audio quality on Spotify is another cause for debate with many claiming that Apple music offers much higher quality along with a friendlier interface- another factor pulling people away from Spotify and its confusing and cluttered layout. The integration of Apple music within with Apple ecosystem is again, one more thing giving it the upper hand over Spotify

As a long-term Spotify user, I do feel like a bit of a hypocrite writing this, but I will definitely reconsider my choice of streaming option. Maybe the convenience of having the same account for years is something I might have to overcome.

50.8%, whilst the North East contributed 2.5%.

The North East, alongside Northern Ireland, had the lowest number of the UK's creative industry's jobs at only 2%. Bruce S. Tether discusses how over the next twenty years, trends in employment growth and labour productivity would have to increase five-fold and by three percentage points respectively, for the rest of the nation to catch up with London and the South East. Positively, the UK government has acknowledged the regional, creative imbalance in it's 2025 industrial strategy. It aims to inject significant funding into the North East's creative ecosystem as part of their creative industries sector plan.

As the government begin 'narrowing the gap' between the North and South's creative opportunities, the win for the South Shields born singer was a special moment for those northern artists that make up the creative minority. It's significance for the region was consolidated by the roaring crowd that filled the Utilita with Geordie pride. With Fender last in the setlist, the anticipation for his performance grew all night. As Radio 1's Sean Eliri announced his win, fans stood to their feet, and Fender, tongue-tied by humble disbelief and gratitude, managed to join in with the Toon chants that erupted from the audience. It was a sentimental night that perfectly captured the local sentiment Fender has managed to nurtured between him and his fans. This seamless ability to convey 'people and community' within his music is what Eliri commented had won him the prize. The night was a true celebration of Northern creativity and community.

Charlotte Atkinson - Film Sub-Editor

As the nights close in and the leaves pile up on street corners, Newcastle’s thriving gig scene continues to go from strength to strength. From The Grove to The Cluny, CuWmberland Arms to O2 City Hall, here’s a selection of the greatest gigs coming to the North East this November.

Hard Life at Boiler Shop, 3 November Formerly known as Easy Life, the Leicester indiepop group return to Newcastle touring their 3rd album Onion. Supported by singer-songwriter Woody, this tour marks the band’s return to live performances under the name “Hard Life” after tough few years, but this new rebrand is sure to bring the same good vibes the band are best known for.

Echobelly at The Cluny - 5 November

90s legends Echobelly are returning to the toon after a five-year hiatus, this tour marks 30 years of their sophomore album ON. When discussing how the live scene has changed in the past three decades, front woman Sonya Maden stated that “in the 90s, there was so much more opportunity for bands to go out and play gigs. Sadly so many venues are having to close down”. Hopefully they will find a little bit of that 90s energy at The Cluny!

Billie Marten at Newcastle Student’s Union - 8 November

The beloved contemporary folk singer is right on our doorstep this November, touring her new studio album Dog Eared. Having signed with Chess Club at the tender age of fifteen, this tour marks Marten’s 11th year in the music industry and her fifth album to date. With her haunting voice and beautiful lyricism, she is sure to have the whole student’s union – The Courier included – in floods of tears.

Warmduscher at Glasshouse International Centre for Music - 14 November

London post-punk outfit Warmduscher are hitting the Glasshouse for a night of insanity and well-tailored suits. With their latest album Too Cold to Hold releasing in 2024, the band have previously been described as “the sleaziest, most debauched and downright addictive experiences” and with their latest album reaping in glowing reviews, you can be sure to have a good time down at the Glasshouse this November.

Granny’s Attic at Cumberland Arms - 15 November

Smaller venue does not equal less energy, and Granny’s Attic at the Cumberland Arms is sure to have you begging for more. The folk trio have been touring since 2009, armed with a violin, a guitar, a variety of squeeze boxes and an inimitable sense of whimsy and energy. In a venue as intimate as the Cumby Arms, Granny’s Attic are sure to blow away any winter cobwebs. CMAT at O2 City Hall - 16 November Hot off the back of her nomination and attendance at the Mercury Awards – the first held outside of London – Irish singer CMAT is making her grand return to the city touring her stellar sophomore album Euro-Country. Having already supported Sam Fender at his sold out summer St James Park stadium shows, the singer is no stranger to the Geordie’s trademark energy and is sure to bring her own to the City Hall.

English Teacher at NX Newcastle - 18 November

Another act returning to the toon this winter are post-punk act English Teacher. Having supported Fontaines D.C at their Exhibition Park this July, the Leeds outfit are here on their own headline tour following the phenomenal success of their debut album This Could Be Texas. Having just released the remixes version to a great reception, English Teacher are sure to put on a historical performance at one of Newcastle’s most beloved venues.

Natalya Mathers

Image source: Lohrelei, Pixabay

Music to fend off the chill...

Image source: Clkr Free-Vectors, Pixabay

Halloween classic Psycho comes slashing back to Ballroom24 student cinema

Roan Stripp

Every

Wednesday at 6pm, the Culture Lab comes alive with world cinema...

Acrucial appeal of the cinema is not just what is happening on the screen, but how the environment around it interlocks and merges with it, a complex ritual which, if done correctly, can even elevate the experience beyond what the filmmaker intended. Be it memories of buttered popcorn, the anticipation built by the trailers, or the relief of reentering the outside world to pour into discussion with family or friends, with every ritual we become more engaged in what stares back at us through the screen.

“...a trip to the cinema comes with a price, particularly amongst students.”

In spite of this, the modern-day experience of the cinema is a conflicted one. Today, with rising costs and a seemingly never-ending chain of sequels, for many, a trip to the cinema comes with a price, particularly amongst students.

For their third year now, the student-led initiative Ballroom24 have made it not only their task, but their privilege, to attack this problem where it hurts by playing weekly films from across the globe on campus for free. Whilst I have attended many of these events for over a year now, from Monty Python to the group in a new direction, impressively with their first-ever screening of an American film: a Halloween special showing of Hitchcock’s 1960 classic, Psycho

These notions are fresh on my mind as I take my seat in a darkened makeshift cinema on campus. Ballroom24 have set the scene well: an ominous drone rings out across the room, inviting the seventyplus attendees (all in black dress code of course) into the prospect of what’s to come. Before the film starts, a curated list of eraaccurate adverts further sets the mood. The forgotten transatlantic accents of old sell Henry Ford cars and other familiar cornerstones of the American Dream; each advert a snapshot of the world Hitchcock was bringing his film into, a world strikingly different from ours today.

After a warm introduction from our host however, the seat-twitching excitement fades into

a cold silence as Bernard Herrmann’s opening theme stabs through the speakers.

The film begins. Glorious nail-biting stress ensues. We watch as Marion Crane, unhappy in her work and relationship, flees to the hills with a stolen hunk of cash, pursued fiercely by a police officer whose eyes hide behind thick aviator sunglasses. The black-and-white visuals drape the film in a fitting perpetual darkness. As shadows cut sharp streaks across the California hills, your mind is left to wonder what lingers within these unseen

Driving at night, Marion stops at the Bates motel, to lie down, but most importantly, lie low. It is here we meet the shy but deliciously charming owner, Norman Bates.

Despite its age, Psycho still holds up well today. With no need for CGI, Hitchcock leans on the power of a good cast alone. Played brilliantly by a young Anthony Perkins, Bates' initial impression is one of shyness. Yet through the eyes of Marion, the longer we spend with Norman, the more the cracks begin to show. His demeanour darkens in discussion of his mother. His office?

Lined with personally crafted taxidermies.

Then, shy of the hour mark, Marion steps into the shower, a scene which anyone who doesn’t live

under a rock will instantly recognise. Bates kills our protagonist Marion in cold blood and buries her in a nearby swamp.

Hitchcock himself described Psycho as a film for the ‘new generation’. Throughout the runtime, a captivated audience laughed, even gasped in unison.

As our host for the evening highlighted himself, there is something comforting in the fact that even today Psycho’s legacy continues to be championed – still captivating the emerging generations. With rising prices on tickets, and endless strings of sequel-sewage clogging the world of cinema today, Ballroom24 stands proudly in its opposition to this.

“..this

great team of young filmmakers continue to uphold the culture of accessible and entertaining cinema...”

It's inspiring that even after three years, this great team of young filmmakers continue to uphold the culture of accessible and entertaining cinema for students. As people made their way out, leaving the world of Hitchcock behind for the pub, suffice to say the evening was a profound success.

Ballroom24 screens films at 6pm each Wednesday in the Culture Lab.

Image source: JIP, Wikimedia Commons, https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/, some images may have been altered

The Roofman made me cry in the cinema

Sophia Glass

Ientered the theatre filled with promise. I left with mascara running down my face. It was moving, hilarious, so incredibly interesting to look at from a cinematographic perspectiveeverything I’d hoped for and more. Roofman, to my disbelief, is based on a true story. Jeffery Manchester, otherwise known as the 'Roofman' was notorious for cutting holes in the roofs of fast-food restaurants and robbing them. He escaped prison in 2004 and hid inside a ‘Toys-R-Us’ for numerous months, surviving on sweets and baby food, until he was recaptured in 2005. During this time, he started dating a local single mother (I mean, an unemployed, single man in his mid-30s must have a pass time.) Their relationship and how it unfolds, which the details of are fictionalised, is essentially the core

chemistry that really ties the film together, and individually, they are both incredibly strong. Some actors require good rapport with one another to elevate their performance, whereas here: together or apart, Dunst and Tatum are incredibly brilliant.

Dunst has this profound ability to use solely facial expressions to convey deep meaning, especially towards the end, when her character starts to notice something is awry. Tatum uses physicality to make his performance absolutely eye-catching, from when his body language drops when he knows it’s his last time watching Leigh and her family sing in church, to the scenes of him exploring the toy store at night on his own. No one faded into the background for me, every actor, even if they were just in one singular segment such as Jimmy O. Yang, who played the car salesman, had their moment. I was also pleasantly surprised to see Uzo Aduba (most famously known for playing ‘Crazy Eyes’ in Orange is the New Black) in another acting role outside of voice acting. I think her talent is so much better suited to being on screen as her facial expressions and general screen presence is absolutely brilliant.

In addition, I think it is also worth noting the unwavering devotion to the early 2000s era that the film withheld. From the ever so slight saturation of colour, the choices in wardrobe and set design, and the soundtrack which included some proper bangers such as Don’t Speak by No Doubt, Roofman didn’t miss at giving us a dose of nostalgia.

“...well-thought out from a visual and plot perspective and showcases a wonderful cast...”

All in all, I highly recommend this film. It’s moving and well-thought out from a visual and plot perspective and showcases a wonderful cast of actors.

The

AI 'actress': A threat or a stunt?

Raeesah Parker

Is creativity and talent being replaced by convenience and profit?

The emergence of AI ‘actress’ Tilly Norwood has sparked a rigorous debate across the internet with the vast majority in uproar, enraged that the future of cinema may turn into a low effort, AI generated mess that extinguishes the innate humanity of the art form. Others, however, believe that this is simply a publicity stunt to generate engagement, one that will fade into a nostalgic “remember when…” Tilly Norwood’s creator, Eline Van Der Velden, made a statement amid the backlash explaining that “she is not a replacement for a human being, but a creative work- a piece of art.” So why are people still upset? The answer is simple: the idea that major companies can turn to artificial intelligence on a whim poses a major threat to actors who fight for fair pay and safe working conditions; what happens if actors are forced to relinquish boundaries because saying ‘no’ is the difference between having a job, and being replaced with AI? What happens if hundreds and thousands of actors are left with little to no opportunities because AI is more convenient?

“...they find themselves put off by inauthenticity...”

That’s not to say this will certainly be the outcome- with the level of backlash from actors and audiences, companies stand to lose far more than gain if they journey down the path of AI under the guise of exploring these new technological advancements. People generally struggle to connect to media when they find themselves put off by inauthenticity- Tilly has often been criticised as being “uncanny.” If we look back at a time before the big screens

and flashing lights of Hollywood, there was a playwright, a stage, and the actors. The actors who, while they may not have always been diverse, had always been human… until 1906, when the first ever animated film Humorous Phases of Funny Faces was released, forever changing cinema.

“...Tilly Norwood relies on blended data to create a distorted amalgamation of reality.”

Now actors could be drawn in, animated, coloured. The difference is that animation is an art form which still relies on a human touch and creativity- voice actors and illustrators- to bring it to life, whereas Tilly Norwood relies on blended data to create a distorted amalgamation of reality.

So, is Tilly Norwood a threat or a stunt? The answer is neither. Tilly Norwood is a tragedy wrapped in the illusion of technological advancement. The AI actress is a prime example of how casual commodification of entertainment for financial gain has slowly eaten away at the industry’s authenticity, leaving it a shell of what it once was.

Image source: vumroehrs0, Pixabay

BFI London Film Festival at Tyneside Cinema: a review and round-up

Tyneside Cinema brings world-class cinema to our doorsteps once again...

The 69th BFI London Film Festival took place from the 8th-20th October in London, bringing an unmissable program. It was also screening across multiple cinemas in the UK, including our very own Tyneside Cinema!

Frankenstein I was lucky enough to secure a ticket to the sold-out screening of Guillermo del Toro's Frankenstein (2025). Sexual, dark, romantic, Gothic and soaked in blood and gore, Frankenstein (2025) is a divine homage to Mary Shelley's classic novel. Whilst retaining the main story, what stood out to me the most was the amount of agency provided to Elizabeth Harlander (Mia Goth's character and the wife of Victor Frankenstein's brother in Del Toro's story) and Jacob Elordi's standout performance as The Monster (you genuinely would not know it was him unless you read the credits!).

Both moving and sensual, the relationship between Elizabeth and The Monster transcends worldly desires; it is enshrouded in Elizabeth's

love of science and nature and The Monster's longing for companionship. Mia Goth blows it out of the park, providing Elizabeth's character with gusto and defiance, not just a passive role as the wife of William Frankenstein. Oscar Isaac's performance as Victor Frankenstein was almost too unlikeable for my taste. He repeatedly physically abuses The Monster and even kills Elizabeth's uncle whilst in a heated power struggle. The costuming and set design was a feast for the eyes, with beautiful Gothic architecture and elaborate silk and linen dress wear. The castle in which Victor ventures to reanimate a corpse is grand and desolate (echoing his own grand visions and selfish, lonesome nature), allowing Del Toro's creative vision to shine through. This was most certainly a piece made from devotion and love to gothic-horror cinema, and there are consistent nods to Shelley and her writing throughout.

-Emily-Maisy Milburn (Gaming Sub-Editor)

It was Just an Accident

It Was Just An Accident, from Iranian director and former prisoner Jafar Panahi, has shocked the world of cinema with a masterpiece like no other. The filmmaker, symbol of freedom of expression, returns with his exceptional direction and sequence shots to deliver a unique dark comedy with a story that only gets more and more thrilling at every second. Do yourself a favour, DO NOT look for any plot, for any synopsis, for any piece of story related to this movie, because it is only by entering the dark blessed room of a movie theatre

The Black Phone 2 : arbitrary and generic

Maddy Kendall - TV Sub-Editor

The Black Phone’s sequel picked up the call - but maybe it should’ve let it ring...

With the charming original being the perfect film to represent the new generation of horror, my expectations were high for the sequel - however, I was left feeling mostly numb by the time the ending hit. My main complaint of the whole film (and most modern films) is the lacklustre writing; the pacing was off throughout and this isn’t helped by the film never really settling into a tone. With the opening being gritty and dramatic, you’re expecting it to stay very grounded throughout - then, when the coin flips, you’re left tired by the time you’re only halfway through as a result of the plot's constant whiplash.

The “Grabber” (played by Ethan Hawke) was menacing and unsettling in the first film; the realism of a grown man praying on young, vulnerable boys and the sweet relief when he faces his demise by the end is

now lost due to him just coming back - although it is explained due to the supernatural elements in the world. However, the Grabber appearing just in dreams now makes it feel like a cheap knock-off version of the classic Nightmare on Elm Street.

Despite this, what I will say is that it is - once again - a stellar performance by eighteen-year-old Mason Thames who gets the chance to darken his character more in this film compared to the first. Where in the first he was a mostly timid, almost dorky child, he is now darkened by the trauma of the first movie, adding to the depth of his character. Even in the face of the lack-lustre script, Thames plays this flawlessly. Another incredible highlight of the film is the impeccable set design - a positive of the majority of the film being set in one location is that every space feels consistent. The background details of sets only help further characters without it feeling like we are just told who they are.

I do wish the film would’ve matured a bit more with its audiences - the first film felt like a good way for older teenagers to get into the horror space, and could’ve led to a stellar sequel in which we got to experience some proper gore and scares. Instead I was left anticipating for something to click; waiting for the ball to drop and to actually feel the stakes. Despite my complaints, I do think it works as a sequel; it still has a plot and makes sense, but unfortunately it just feels empty and lacking in charm compared to its predecessor.

blindfolded that you will be able to witness one of the most original experiences in 137 years of cinema.

-Amine Yacoubi

Wake up Dead Man

The BFI London Film Festival opened with the much-anticipated third Knives Out film, Wake Up Dead Man.

The third Knives Out strikes a different tone to the first two, with (as its title would suggest) greater focus on gothic horror elements, and I loved the way that the plot unfolded here. Every actor worth their salt is now lining up to join Rian Johnson and Daniel Craig, and this time we have Josh O' Connor, Jeremy Renner, Mila Kunis, Andrew Scott among others, all of whom are brilliant. I particularly liked Josh O Connor's fish-out-ofwater priest, who is a perfect foil for the eccentric Benoit Blanc. Whether this is the best Knives Out film remains to be seen, but this is certainly the most fun I've had with one, thanks to being one of a packed audience that was having a whale of a time with the many twists, turns and terrific bits of comedy.

-Alex Paine (Film Sub-Editor)

Bugonia

Brace yourselves my friends and call the closest mental

hospital because Yorgos Lanthimos escaped again.

That's right, the Greek filmmaker comes again to make us think about life in the most disturbing way, after his four times Oscar winning Poor Things in 2023, and a much quieter but brilliant Kinds of Kindness in 2024. In 2025, he offers us a new serious Oscar contender, as always supported by the beautiful Emma Stone for their fourth collaboration in a row and by the enormous versatility of Jesse Plemons. The plot couldn't be simpler, two conspiracy theorists kidnap a famous CEO because they think she's an alien, during the adventures expect you to grit your teeth in front of the cinematography and the anxietyinducing music, ending with a final scene that will make you dizzy.

-Amine Yacoubi

Imagecredit:Emily-MaisyMilburn Imagesource:Mohamed_hassan,Pixabay

Physical DVDs: still relevant in the 2020s?

Rosie Greatorex

If they are unnecessary, why do people still buy them?

In recent years, DVDs have shifted from film watching essentials to mere collectors items. The rise of streaming, renting and digital download has made the physical purchasing of movies, in all practical terms, technically obsolete, but stores like HMV and CeX prove there is still a market for these purchases.

The film industry would not be the giant it is today without the release of DVDs. Their rollout in the mid-90s, affordably replacing VHS tapes, brought the enjoyment of movies into the comfort of film watchers’ homes, giving viewers the ability to cherry-pick their own watchlists and relieving their reliance on TV channels or renting companies like Blockbuster Video for access to movies.

“There

is something uniquely special about being able to own your own physical copies of your favourite films.”

In the 2020s, the tradition of owning physical copies of media like films and music has returned to mainstream popularity. Whether that be vinyl, CDs or DVDs, there has been an outpouring of love for classic media formats, despite them not being a strict necessity due to widespread online access. Though it can seem counter-intuitive or perhaps even a waste of money to some, the joy of

collecting which many people share proves there is something uniquely special about being able to own physical copies of your favourite films or albums and display them in a personal library that reflects your own taste.

“It is a habit that is relatively affordable, considering most DVDs can be picked up for £10 and under.”

I personally come from a household with a large DVD collection, which my family has curated over the years. From BluRays to standard DVDs, newly released picks to second hand charity shop finds, our DVD library stands in our living room as a thing of pride. It is a way of tracking how our tastes have evolved over time, as well as a means of ensuring our favourites are always on hand to rewatch. Though we still often watch movies on streaming services, there is something lovely about being able to see the physical copies of our favourites curated in front of us. Plus, it is a habit that is relatively affordable, considering most DVDs can be picked up for £10 and under.

All in all, the declining popularity of DVDs is an understandable by-product of media digitisation, but for those who still choose to own physical copies of movies, there is an indisputable personal value in this. Whether it is a nostalgic callback to a bygone era of physical media ownership or a means of having classics on hand to watch at all times, one thing is certain - curation is a deeply human act and therefore will always be a valuable one.

Multiple Writers

Image sources: Kashira_Meiji, Pixabay (DVDs) | Roberto Sorin, Unsplash (CDs)

Image source: Rogério Toledo, Unplash

Is online cancel culture affecting our creativity?

Charley Dobson - Agony Aunt & Blind Date Coordinator

In

a culture obsessed with image, does cancellation deter authenticity?

Our generation is more than ever aware of the power of reputation, the global community built by interconnectedness on social media is still quite novel in it’s popularity. Never before have cohorts had the opportunity for their voice to reach the masses to the extent that is available today.

Even now, with moral awareness streaming towards a peak, there are major industry contenders whose problematic attitudes have done little to hinder their influence. In some cases, such controversies only add to the buzz surrounding their creative outputs. To illustrate such irony, we can look towards Kanye West. In the early 2000s, Kanye cemented his stardom; an undeniable icon. However, in recent years he has made the shift from iconic to infamous in his preaching of hateful attitudes but still, that influence remains. His voice is almost anticipated across social media despite the predictability that it will speak of hateful views.

This leads us to the age-old debate: can we

separate art from the artist? Some individuals prefer to think of creation singularly- a product away from the hands that made it. This mindset has admittedly saved countless outstanding products from being forgotten. To flip the coin, others share the opinion that it is impossible to appreciate art without acknowledgment of it’s context. Perhaps the latter is more effective to deter such extreme examples of ill-intended creation.

Breaking into creative industries behind the shadows of so many ‘cancelled’ artists is a daunting feat for anyone. But might an increased sensitivity to the audience make art any less authentic?

It would be impossible and quite frankly boring if all art portrayed the same beliefs, yet many attempts have been made to cross out creatives whose views, whilst not hateful in intent, have been spat on by the audience reached. Even on a subconscious level, many young creatives are making their art palatable for as many tastes as possible- especially those with the intent to share on social media. We can highlight ‘Instagram poetry’ as an example. There are too many accounts to track that publish essentially the same ideas and forms because similar work before it was digested with ease.

Can so many people really share the same creative whims or are we seeing this sameness as a result of motivation to appeal to the masses; to be agreeable?

Is the white cube still artistically relevant?

Imogen Hayes - Arts Sub-Editor

How important is it for the white cube for contemporary art galleries their changing identity?

Has the white cube had its heyday?

An architectural beauty, the two London galleries, founded in 1993 and 2006, has hosted many talented artists within its walls. The exterior matches the contemporary works within and welcomes the famous and the new, making their mark in the art scene.

“...dominant and stubborn focus on maintaining a neutral space...”

However, although the white cube holds spaces across the globe, its dominant and stubborn focus on maintaining a neutral space for artworks on the walls or floors remains the same since its founding, a problem in an ever changing art world. Visitors and art galleries have swayed to prioritising experience and hold more visually appealing spaces, showcasing film, projection, installations, keeping inspiration alive and maintaining the modern expectations of our world. Does the white cube intend to change?

Will its traditional presentation of works, what was once its rise,

Public art: the politics of Banksy’s latest mural

Jess Mooney - Head of Current Affairs

Art has always been political. From Renaissance frescoes loaded with symbols of power to Picasso’s Guernica or the protest posters of 1968 Paris, artists have long reflected and resisted authority. In the 21st century, few have done this as consistently, and as provocatively, as Banksy.

His latest mural, which appeared on the exterior wall of London’s Royal Courts of Justice, may be one of his most politically charged. It arrived just days after nearly 900 people were arrested at a protest against the UK’s ban on Palestine Action, a group recently banned and labelled a terrorist organisation. Critics cite the group’s disruptive tactics and property damage while supporters see it as direct action against UK complicity in war crimes, specifically the arms trade with Israel. Regardless of one’s stance, the scale of arrests has raised alarms over the right to protest in Britain.

“ ...a judge in full regalia”

The mural shows a judge in full regalia, wig, robe, bringing a gavel down not in a courtroom, but onto the body of a protester. Blood sprays from the protester’s placard, still clutched in hand. Banksy offered no explanation, but the symbolism is clear: justice is not being served, it’s striking.

The authorities responded quickly. The mural was covered in plastic, then fenced off. Police launched a criminal damage investigation. Officials from the Royal Courts of Justice called it vandalism of a listed building. But the question lingers: what does more harm, paint on a wall, or the suppression of protest?

The choice of location was no accident. The Royal Courts are more than a landmark, they represent the legal system itself. By placing the mural there, Banksy confronts the judiciary with the consequences of its rulings, or its silences.

Banksy's mural doesn’t name names, but its critique is unambiguous: a justice system complicit in the suppression of dissent.

Street art has always existed outside permission. It is fleeting, illegal, and powerful precisely because it cannot be censored in advance. It appears uninvited and demands confrontation. Banksy turns public space into a site of political reckoning.

The authorities’ swift attempt to conceal the mural only amplified its message. Instead of silence, there was noise, crowds, debate, and viral images. The attempt to erase it became part of the artwork’s impact. In an era when protest is increasingly policed, surveilled, and legislated against, street art remains one of the few unfiltered forms of political expression.

This mural isn’t about beautifying a wall. It’s about bearing witness. Challenging power. Asking uncomfortable questions. And while the image may be removed, the question it poses remains: When justice fears the people, who really holds the gavel?

become its fall?

The white cube remains tailored for specific artworks, limiting what it can show. Nowadays, the trend is for the artworks to have its main character moment, with the structures tailored around it. But the white cube refuses to change. It seems like the space is the artwork, not the artworks themselves

“The traditional white space can often be intimidating to those not involed in the art world.”

The traditional white space can often be intimidating to those not involved in the art world. Walking into a quiet, clean room where there is no place to sit and absorb the art, makes it inaccessible to many.

“...a timeless atmosphere can give the artwork an eternal freedom.”

Although the white space creates a bland backdrop for colour, textures and shapes to be shown off, without distraction, while having a timeless atmosphere giving the artwork an eternal freedom. It can unintentionally create a daunting environment.  So yes, the white cube remains relevant, but I think it might need to go outside its internal walls and discover what is outside.

Where to get creative in

Northumberland

Bored of Newcastle City Centre already? Here are some inspirational spots in Northumberland...

Alnwick

Definitely one of my favourite places to visit in Northumberland! Alnwick is a lovely little market town just 45 mins outside of Newcastle with so many places to explore. Alnwick Castle, of course, is the main attraction. It may be the home of Downton Abbey and Harry Potter, but there is so much more to it. From guided history tours that are perfect for any historian to archery training for those of us more on the sportier side, Alnwick Castle has so much to enjoy, making it the perfect escape from the city centre.

“ The pictureque landscape and beautiful 11th century gothic architecture...”

The picturesque landscape and beautiful 11th century gothic architecture makes Alnwick Castle the place to be for creatives and artists alike. Whether it’s photography or a bit of scenic sketching, Alnwick Castle is some of the best inspiration you can find. Barter Books

Alnwick is also a great place to visit! Located in the old

Alnwick train station, this second handbook shop is a must see. Full of hundreds of classics and plenty of comfy armchairs to read them in, Barter Books is every bookworm’s dream. They even have a cosy little café called the Station Buffet which serves your classic British favourites all day every day.

“This

beautiful coastal town is an hour outside of Newcastle...”

Alnmouth

Needing a change from Whitley Bay and Tynemouth? Alnmouth is the answer! This beautiful little coastal town is an hour outside of Newcastle but well worth the journey. Alongside the beautiful coastlines, Alnmouth Village is also home to The Old School Gallery. This gallery houses multiple styles of art from contemporary to abstract to printmaking and illustration meaning there is something for all art lovers to see! Until November 17th, the gallery has an exhibition called “Cunning Folk” which displays multiple artists interpretations of witchcraft and mythology. True Halloween vibes!

Cragside

One of the many National Trust sites within Northumberland but the best one in my opinion! Cragside House is a stunning piece of 19th century architecture surrounded by miles of woodland and making it the perfect place for a Sunday morning hike. Cragside has multiple guided trails to follow where you can see stunning man-made lakes alongside the vast Northumberland countryside. From the 3rd November, an adult ticket is only £11. Craving some Autumn vibes? Get yourself down to

Kate Sturrock

Image source: Daniel Way, Unsplash

GenZ's obsession with shows for the middle-aged viewer

Callum Borkowski - Campus Comment Sub-Editor

The viewing patterns of Gen Z have generally marked a large shift away from traditional Freeview television channels to on-demand and streaming services, such as Disney+ and Netflix. With younger audiences typically becoming more engaged with a series created by the streaming platforms, like The Summer I Turned Pretty (2021) and legacy series such as Friends (1994). From initial perceptions, completely gone are the days of tuning into the television shows at the same time each week to watch one episode and then being left on a cliffhanger all week.

“ It has become increasingly popular to have a Saturday night in...”

Yet one thing that I have uncovered through common conversation is that perhaps the style of showing that Gen Z is watching may be changing. Our use of streaming services has resulted in watching shows that are usually associated with older generations and whose

viewer base largely comprises our parents. This is something I am taking as a sign of our frontal lobes developing. It has become increasingly popular to have a Saturday night in, drinking a bottle of wine each with the girls, instead of taking on the toon and hitting the club.

I know that I fall into the former category. Gen Z’s new viewing obsessions seem to take place across a variety of television genres, including reality TV, competition shows, and soap operas. Reality TV shows such as Big Brother (2000) and The Traitors (2022) have been able to work their way into mainstream popularity by creating a variety of public personas that Gen Z have created fan edits and memes around. The prime example being the icon Linda from The Traitors. These shows have been able to grip viewers with their twists, turns and capacity to recreate that chaotic standard of television drama, for example, the Jojo Siwa vs Mickey Rourke saga.

“ I think this is down to the light-hearted nature of these shows and the consistency in programming...”

The more nighty-in accustomed Gen Z has become far more favourable to competition shows such as The Great British Bake Off (2010) and

Strictly Come Dancing (2004), which have been core pillars of the British television industry for years.

I think this down to the light-hearted nature of these shows and the consistency in programming that leads university students becoming around September as the television calendar fills up. These shows have also seen their fair share of iconic British pop culture moments, such as when Alison Hammond was infamously perplexed as to “Where’s The Door Gone?"

Are

there too many cop shows?

Logan Crowley

The number of cop shows is ever increasing with a huge range of shows such as The Rookie (2018), 9-1-1 (2018), and Line of Duty (2012) exploding in popularity in recent years. But in a time where support for the police is dwindling, do we need any more shows glamorising law enforcement?

And yet even more obscure, some of Gen Z have arguably developed a fixation with British soap opera classics, with the likes of Coronation Street (1960) and EastEnders (1985). It seems that the shocking storylines and intense drama are something that cannot be replicated by the modern soap series. Without having to wait a year for a show’s next series of episodes, British soaps offer viewers consistency with their scheduling. Something that may keep younger viewers engaged in the show. Overall, what appears to be a surprising growth in Gen Z's discussion and viewership of shows typically associated with an older audience, could mark the beginning of a cultural shift in the type of media consumed by the younger generation.

Is the loss of 'tween'

media damaging to pre-teens?

Zoe Lett - Film Sub-Editor

One of our sub-editors discusses the loss of 'tween' shows and its dangers...

Being a ‘tween’ has always been accepted as a difficult and awkward time of your life, particularly for me and my emo side fringe. It is a liminal stage, no longer a child, but not a teenager yet, in which the brain is rewiring itself, making this age demographic more impressionable to the world around them.

Over the 90s and 2000s, society acknowledged this ‘in-between’ with TV specifically tailored to pre-teens. But does ‘tween’ media even exist anymore? In recent years, this genre has completely disappeared, with children skipping straight to media intended for adults. The danger lies in exposing developing minds to themes and expectations that they are not yet ready to process, leaving them vulnerable to distorted ideas.

“For decades, television offered 'tweens' a safe space...”

For decades, television offered ‘tweens’ a safe space, with shows like The Story of Tracy Beaker (2002), Sam & Cat (2013), and iCarly (2007) offering age-appropriate narratives and relatable

characters. These programs allowed pre-teens to see themselves represented on screen while easing them into more mature themes at a gradual pace.

“...'Tweens' are being thrust into an environment that pressures them to adopt adult behaviours and ideals before they

are ready.”

Today, however, the television landscape has shifted dramatically, with many children now consuming reality shows and adult content such as Love Island (2015). These programmes, which are centred on romance, body image, and sexual competition, means 'tweens' are being thrust into an environment that pressures them to adopt adult behaviours and ideals before they are ready.

This shift is also reflected in the change of format for TV aimed at pre-teens. Traditional broadcast channels once centred around this age demographic are moving entirely online, for example from this year CBBC is no longer available as a live television channel and is only available on iPlayer. The same trend can be seen with other networks, such as Disney Channel UK, which shut down in 2020. While these changes reflect more broad digital consumption habits, they also create barriers for children who do not have access to streaming.

The disappearance of scheduled programming removes the shared and communal aspect and experience of coming home from school to watch TV shows, and instead, ‘tweens’ are left to navigate an endless online world that blurs the boundaries between child and adult spaces.

The decline and reshaping of ‘tween’ TV could be due to various cultural and economic factors. It is clear that media production companies value monetary income over everything else, but

what makes ‘tween’ audiences unique is how impressionable they are, making them highly valuable consumers.

This exposure to adult content distorts children’s understanding of relationships, body image, and self-worth. Where ‘tweens’ once had space to experiment with cringey hairstyles and questionable fashion, they are now expected to present polished, Instagram-ready identities that mimic influencers. The messy, private trialand-error that once defined early teenage years is now played out online and under pressure.

“...children are collapsed into adult consumer roles for the sake of capitalism.”

The collapse of ‘tween’ media depicts how malleable the idea of childhood is. Youth, as we understand it, is not universal; historically, and in some cultures today, children transition quickly into adult roles. ‘Tween’ emerged in late-20th-century by Western societies as a recognition of developmental needs and, arguably, as a marketing opportunity. By slowly erasing media dedicated to pre-teens, society is not reverting to back to its old ways but creating a new category where children are collapsed into adult consumer roles for the sake of capitalism.

The danger is now that a genre of TV is being replaced by a market that values profitability over the well-being of children, and there is a pressure for them to adopt adult behaviours before they are developmentally ready, leaving them vulnerable to exploitation and harm.

“...upwards of 500 episodes which makes you question what else they could possibly include in new seasons.”

One category of police shows is the typical American cop show where there’s a crime, some kind of ‘genius’ solution, and a resolution where the good guys win and everybody is happy. These shows serve as really easy viewing and are something you can put on in the background as you can usually watch each episode as a stand-alone piece of media which is something many viewers find appealing. In a world where justice can seem uncertain, these shows serve as a source of comfort to the viewer and is perhaps another reason why they have exploded in popularity. Some series such as Law and Order (1990) have upwards of 500 episodes which makes you question what else they could possibly include in new seasons. I personally think this style of show is completely oversaturated and despite making for easy viewing, there’s not much else to gain from it.

“...outline some of the problems with the police force rather than romanticising it.”

Other styles of cop show such as the grittier UK based shows like Line of Duty and Bodyguard (2018), which end after a reasonable number of episodes, provide a much more intense viewing experience and outline some of the problems with the police force rather than romanticising it.

“...there are far too many police shows that have almost identical, reptitive formats...”

Overall, I think there are far too many police shows that have almost identical, repetitive formats and there would be little impact if these were to stop being made. I think new cop shows need to try and bring something new and exciting to the table, and whilst I do appreciate the need for easy viewing, the market is already saturated enough. Police show that offer a commentary on real-life issues in a realistic and

Image source: Dustin Tramel, Unsplash

Crossword Sudoku

Across

3) What film is a prequel to the film "X"?

4) The first star sign of November.

5) What did Guy Fawkes also go by?

6) What day of the week did daylight savings time end this year?

7) Finish this Sam Fender song title - ______ Aldi Death Queue

Down

1) There are over 20 of these stores in Newcastle.

2) What is Hannibal's last name? (Hint: The other one, not the murderer.)

4) What country's national animal is the Unicorn?

Image source: ViJakob, Pixabay

that book: Private Peaceful

Why do people turn to cardio during uni?

Miriam Nigrone

If you are reading this article and are a running fanatic, please do not take any of this too seriously! I've been running for about 5 months, but I think that this has given me an idea on why every soul at university decides to run at one point of their university experience.

From personal ex perience, I started running to get rid of all the stress that life at university can give a student. The feeling whilst running is not the greatest - let’s be real everyone feels like they are dying - your dry throat, red skin due to awful winds in Newcastle, sweaty forehead with your veins pulsing at every step you take.

But the feeling after a run, that's the reason you always go back.

Don’t worry, I also thought runner's high was a myth, but I promise you it’s not. It might be your adrena-

line or just the fact that you are almost fainting, but I would vouch for it to be one of the top feelings in the world. Running genuinely helps forgetting all the stress you have in your life, it’s just you and your music, and it can really help reduce your anxiety or at least it helped me reduce mine. I do also think that the main reason so many people turn to cardio is because its free, and when looking at those outrageous gym membership prices in this economy it’s not surprising why so many people start to pick it up.

Another good thing that I think attracts people is the fact that most of the running community is super inclusive. You don’t have to do crazy distances to be a runner, 2 kilometres can be such an achievement for so many and it is supported by runners through run-clubs and social media.

So, when something is free, inclusive and helps reduce student anxiety are we surprised that so many people we know decide to take it up?

Newcastle United: How the club has transformed

- NUTV Station Manager

This week marked the four-year anniversary of Newcastle United’s monumental takeover, led by the Saudi Public Investment Fund. That fateful Thursday in 2021 marked a new era for the football club, one that was hopeful for its future. Flash-forward to this season, it’s fair to say that a lot has changed.

The first change to take place under the new ownership – and arguably the most significant – was replacing Steve Bruce with fellow Englishman Eddie Howe. The former Bournemouth manager wasn’t the board’s first choice, but what an incredible decision he turned out to be! Howe transformed the

such a short space of time, improving every single player in the squad. His leadership is the beating heart of Newcastle’s successes.

The squad itself has changed drastically, with the only pretakeover player still in the starting XI being Joelinton.

The team have welcomed 19 permanent signings, including huge talents Sandro Tonali, Anthony Gordon, Nick Woltemade and captain Bruno Guimaraes. And who could forget Big Dan Burn?

Off the pitch, major commercial changes were made in the last couple of seasons. First, the club brought back Adidas as the kit manufacturer. The German giants are beloved in the city for their iconic 1990s kits, so their return was warmly received.

Following this, the club opened a Stack venue outside St. James’ Park, filled with local food places, football-themed bars and weekly music events. It quickly became a popular entertainment spot, especially on matchdays where

Image source: Pictures of Money, Flickr, https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/

fans enjoy the games broadcasted on the giant television screen. Have these changes paid off? The results speak for themselves. Newcastle have qualified for the Champions League twice in these last four years. They famously battered Paris Saint-Germain 4-1 in 2023, and recently achieved their biggest win in the competition ever, with 4-0 over Union Saint-Gilloise. However, the club’s biggest achievement so far arrived in March, when Newcastle triumphed 2-1 over Liverpool in the Carabao Cup final, winning their first domestic trophy in seventy years. It was a joyous occasion on Tyneside, with the entire city packed for the victory parade.

Read more at thecourieronline.co.uk

A club in crisis: Pools sack Grayson after just fifteen games in charge

James Morley

Hartlepool United kick their manager to the curb...

In what has become commonplace under the Raj Singh premiership, Hartlepool United announced on 12th October that manager Simon Grayson had been relieved of his duties, with the club stating that ‘obtaining one win in the last 11 games falls short of the required standard’.

With this sacking, Grayson becomes the 9th permanent manager to exit the role in the post Dave Challinor era, who guided the Monkey Hangers to promotion to League Two in his first full season in charge in the 2020-21 season, before departing to Stockport County

later in the year. To many the sacking was seen as the culmination of the Shakespearean tragicomedy that was Pools’ summer, with collapsing takeover rumours, a fan poll marred by transparency issues resulting in Singh staying on as chairman and principal funder of the club after standing down from the role in March, and the effective ban of BBC Tees from providing live updates from home games after an interview dissecting the clubs finances.

“The sacking was seen as the culmination of the Shakespearean tragicomedy that was Pool's summer.”

In addition, the resignation of the club’s Honorary President and

most notable face, Jeff Stelling, in May - protesting the fan poll and takeover rumours - cast further division across the club, with Stelling stating that fans had been left in an ‘intolerable position’ with a ‘perceived threat to the future of the club should they not support the current owner’, further claiming that ‘not once had I been consulted about this even though I am a shareholder’.

“Despite flashes of quality, Grayson's tenure was marked by dropped points.”

Grayson’s appointment brought with it an almost complete overhaul of the club, signing 14 new players in the wake of key departures such as Mani Dieseruvwe, Joe Grey, and David Ferguson, eight of which making their debut in the first game of the season

against Yeovil Town.

However, despite flashes of quality, Grayson’s tenure was marked dropped points against Boston, Brackley and Tamworth, as well as a loss to Aldershot away from home, unreflective of the club’s desire of a ‘squad that pushes for promotion next season’ as detailed in a statement following Grayson’s appointment in June. The final nail in the coffin came with a 1-1 draw away from home to Gainsborough Trinity in the fourth qualifying round of this year's edition of

the FA Cup, a bitterly disappointing performance for a club that just three years ago was thriving in League Two and taking on Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park in the third

“It is hard to think of how the club could appeal

to their next manager.”

round of the very same competition. While Grayson departs, and unrest grows within the fanbase once more, it is hard to think of how the club could appeal to their next manager, who’d be forced to work effectively within an environment that is so shamefully and sadly in decline.

Image source: Pumbaa80, Wikimedia Commons, https://creativecommons.org/ licenses/by-sa/3.0/

Image source: Mk2010, Wikimedia Commons, https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/

Grace Laidler

Image source: James Morley

Image credit: Grace Laidler

Social Rounders Society: The People's Society

Lucy Langdon

An overview on one of Newcastle's most interesting societies.

Have you ever felt unwelcome in a society?

Struggled to fit in and meet people you want to be long term friends with? Or maybe you don’t feel you have the ability to compete with BUCS or just don’t want to commit that kind of time to an extra-curricular.

Well look no further because Social Rounders is the society for you!

With weekly sessions playing a super laid-back game of rounders (every Sunday @ 12pm!!), a fun, welcoming and SOBER (!!) social immediately afterwards and Bi-weekly

Wednesday night socials (sometimes even weekly!) we have something for everyone.

“Have

you ever met such an inclusive society? I think not!”

Join us Sunday @ 12pm in exhibition park to see what we’re about, have a chat

Alternatively check out our Instagram for the latest updates and join us on one of our Wednesday night socials (you don’t even need a membership for this!).

Have you ever met such an inclusive society? I think not! It’s never too late to join us as we love to see people from all stages of their degrees (including many masters students!) and don’t worry about your ability either as we’re super non-competitive. of our committee end up missing the ball, fumbling a catch or straight up falling over…

But how much do we charge? To join us it’s only £5 for the whole entire year, which is we could make it! We want to have as many people as possible be able to join us and would

hate for anyone not to be able to come based on this. You could even come for a taster session free of charge to see if the society suites you! If that’s not enough for you we also offer free food every week courtesy of our President’s charity work where he provides us with a very welcome assortment of pastries, sweet treats and sandwiches which would otherwise be going to waste (think Too-Good-To-Go but free!).

Don’t just take my word for it, follow our Instagram (@nusrounders) to see everything we’ve been up to and check out these pictures of sessions and socials we’ve already done this year! Don’t forget to follow so you can find out all our plans for the rest of the year (We have some very exciting collaborations and plans coming up!)

Strava vs Garmin: Will this running feud end in kudos?

- Head of Current Affairs

This dispute could disrupt automatic syncing between both platforms.

Strava has filed a lawsuit against Garmin claiming that heatmaps and segments used by Garmin violate a 2015 cooperation agreement made between the two companies - thus infringing on Strava’s patents over the features.

With legal proceedings ongoing and uncertainty growing, it remains to be seen what this fallout between two running-tech titans means for the future of the online running community.

Strava is a social fitness app that allows athletes to track and share workouts to other users on the platform.

Garmin creates GPS-enabled smartwatches and fitness trackers that are deemed the top choice amongst a large

percentage of the running community. The 2015 cooperation agreement brought the two companies close together, allowing them to grow alongside the increased popularity of running. As of October 2025, Strava boasted 50 million monthly active users on their platform - signifying the widespread effects a fallout could have on their users.

“It brought the two companies together... growing alongside the popularity of running.”

The lawsuit first landed against Garmin on September 30 in a federal court in Colorado, with Strava claiming Garmin had ‘reverse engineered’ their heatmap and segment features. As a result, Strava sought a permanent injunction to prevent Garmin selling any devices that made use of these features. Garmin hit back

strongly and threatened to cut user’s data from the Strava app entirely unless the app agrees to brand Garmin information more clearly. This involves the Garmin logo being present on every activity post, graph, screen, image, and sharing card.

Matt Salazar, Strava’s Chief Product Officer, labelled this move as “blatant advertising” and stated the company’s intention to prevent this from happening: “We have tried to resolve this situation with Garmin [...] but to no avail”.

The dispute has led to many fearing that their data, achievements, and records could be wiped from Strava, with Salazar also stating that Garmin had given Strava until November 1 to comply with its new guidelines or risk, “stopping all Garmin activities from being uploaded to Strava”.

“We have tried to resolve this situation with Garmin, but to no avail.”

Garmin is yet to comment on the dispute, and it might decide to keep it that way. Such legal disputes can take months or years to reach a conclusion,

Oscar Jenkins

Image credit: Louie Horn

Image source: Denis Barthel, Wikimedia Commons, https://creativecommons.org/ licenses/by-sa/4.0/. Some images may have been altered.

Image credit: Will Kennedy

Inside the Caving Club: their first adventure of the year!

Andrew Butcher

We’re the Newcastle University Caving Club, and we’ve recently run our first trip of the year. At the beginning of the year, we host 2 weekend trips for our beginner members.

Unfortunately, we had to cancel our first one recently due to Storm Amy creating floods. However, our other trip was a fantastic space, with 2 brilliant caves explored, County Pot and Calf Holes. County Pot is part of the Three Counties Cave system, the largest in the UK. With 56 miles of underground passages, it continues to be further explored to this date.

“It continues to be further explored to this date.”

On the 10th-12th October the section we explored is entered from County Pot, travelling through Broadway, Showerbath passage, Battle of Britain Chamber, Upper Trident,

Lower Trident Streamway and finally Eureka Junction. An excellent route for beginners with plenty to see!

On leaving the cave, we were treated to a fantastic view of the sun setting over the west of England while waiting for Andrew and Adam to derig the rope on the exit.

In the spirt of Halloween, we had a fantastic dinner that was the brainchild of Dan,

With two pumpkins chopped up, roasted and stewed with onion garlic and all manner of seasoning, it turned into a pretty fantastic meal.

On Sunday, our plan was to travel from Long Churns to Alum Pot, but on arriving at the lay by to park, we had to quickly change our plans due to 2 large groups already preparing to go in. With a quick change of plans, we switched to

View from the AU

Alex Duggan - Sports Officer

nearby, a good beginner cave that was new to everyone. Calf holes can be entered from the top and exited from the bottom, but just in case something went wrong... We decided to leave the rope in the top entrance in case we needed to leave that way.

“ We had found the route onwards and out.”

After navigating a lovely streamway and a short easy squeeze, we had found the route onwards and out. At this point, Hazel and Andrew left the cave out the top to get the rope and everyone else went out the bottom way. However, once reunited and nearly back at the car, it occurred we had managed to leave a bag in the cave. Andrew and Hazel made a quick trek back and managed to quickly retrieve the bag from near the exit. With a quick change while having fun with the echo off a nearby cliff, we got underway and back to Newcastle to a much-appreciated shower. All in all, a brilliant first trip away!

Back on track: In conversation with the Running Club

Aarya Shenoy - Sport Sub-Editor

Our Sports editor spoke with members of the running club!

It wasn’t too long ago that we were all quarantined within our houses and the only escape was to wander into the outdoors away from any other civilians. Covid-19 changed our world in ways unimaginable to us, and the remnants of it are still around in our everyday lives.

Lockdown caused a significant drop in activity levels of our population – leisure centres were shut down, social distancing made sure we weren’t able to play team sports with friends and the inactivity took a toll on our mental health.

Coming out the other side of the pandemic, activity is rising – but

there’s one sport in particular that has seen a significant uptick in people –running.

“Running’s really accessible,” says Eleanor Stretch, social secretary for the running club at Newcastle. “You don’t need anything [new], you just put trainers on, even if they’re not good, and you just come out and run what is really nice.”

Newcastle’s Running Club was founded in 2015, currently celebrating its 10th anniversary. Since the pandemic, the rise in runners has

been significant within the club.

“It’s definitely been very noticeable coming out of COVID,” agrees Simon Cheung, Welfare Secretary for the club. “I think that people were ready to get out there and enjoy the fresh air again. It’s really quite accessible as well, which is one of the big reasons that it’s for everyone.”

It’s not just lockdown that has had a significant impact on people taking up running. The growth of social media and fitness influencers have introduced the hobby to a wider audience, and

interest in the club has increased steadily.

“You just come and run which is really nice”

“This year, as committee, I see a lot of new faces, which is so nice. We’ve had 300 new members [this year], but I reckon a good half of that is freshers, so it’s really exciting!”

Eleanor comments.

“I definitely think running’s becoming more … it’s not a trend, but it’s definitely become more popular. I also think with Instagram runners and TikTok runners, people are really wanting to get into it.”

Week 4 of BUCS saw Team Newcastle firing on all cylinders; 64 fixtures played, 37 wins and 1 draw. Safe to say, the momentum is building nicely!

Basketball had a brilliant week on the road, with both the Men’s and Women’s 1s taking convincing wins; the M1 at Strathclyde and W1 at Edinburgh. That makes it three wins from three for the Women’s side, who now sit top of the Premier North.

Hockey also shone, with both 1s teams producing standout performances; the women cruising to a 5–0 win over Glasgow and the men defeating Nottingham. Over on the rugby pitch, the Men’s Rugby Union 1s claimed their fourth consecutive bonus-point win, dismantling Leeds away, while the Women’s 1s bounced back strongly with victory over Glasgow.

Volleyball continues their dominance: both Men’s and Women’s 1s beat Edinburgh 3–0, keeping the men unbeaten and top of the table. American Football opened their campaign with a 21–10 win at Leeds, while Futsal edged Durham 7–6 in a thriller. First wins too for Women’s Lacrosse and Netball! From pink to the ’stache, October’s Breast Cancer Awareness efforts have been amazing and now we’re rolling into Movember with the same energy. I can’t wait to see everyone getting involved in the BUCS x Movember launch with the Barbour Shop at Cochrane Park; raising awareness, growing the ’stache, and backing a brilliant cause.

Image credit: Newcastle University Students’ Union

credit: Aarya Shenoy

Image credit: Andrew Butcher