ESP April 2019

APRIL 2019

Issue 236

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SINCE 1998

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Bringing you the best of local Leisure and Lifestyle in Greater Peterborough for 20 years!

Peterborough New Theatre ESP chats to the new team

Feature

Christina Aguilera UK Tour

Spring Activities Live Music Movies Comedy Wheels The Posh Page Health, Fitness and Wellbeing

EVEN MORE NEWS AND EVENTS ON WWW.ESPMAG.CO.UK OR LIKE US ON FACEBOOK OR FOLLOW US ON TWITTER TO HEAR FIRST

2019

Celebrating 20 years in print with...

YEARS OF ESP

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850+ Gossip PLACES EDITORIAL

Editor Sharon McAllister sharon.mcallister@espmag.co.uk

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SKECHERS JOINS QUEENSGATE SHOPPING CENTRE

NEW SUMMER DATE FOR ITALIAN FESTIVAL

ADVERTISING Head of Sales & Marketing Sean McAllister sean.mcallister@espmag.co.uk Sales Manager Charlotte Lewis charlotte.lewis@espmag.co.uk

DESIGN Tony Mayer tony.mayer@espmag.co.uk

PHOTOGRAPHY Andy Vernum, Emma Bothamley, Mike Harris, Chris Brudenell, Andrew James

COLuMNISTS Pep Cipriano pep.cipriano@espmag.co.uk Darren Grigas darren.grigas@espmag.co.uk Keith Dalton keith.dalton@espmag.co.uk Phil Adlam phil.adlam@espmag.co.uk Karen Devine karen.devine@espmag.co.uk

REPORTERS Mikey Clarke mikey.clarke@espmag.co.uk Sarah Tempest sarah.tempest@espmag.co.uk Sarah Slack sarah.slack@espmag.co.uk

CONTRIBuTORS Gavin Miller gavin.miller@espmag.co.uk Marc Hernandez marc.hernandez@espmag.co.uk Rachael Church rachael.church@espmag.co.uk

ESP MAGAZINE LTD Directors Sharon McAllister sharon.mcallister@espmag.co.uk Sean McAllister sean.mcallister@espmag.co.uk

SOCIAL MEDIA /espmagazine

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ESP is a totally independent publication, not linked in any way to any other Peterborough publications. ESP is written, researched, designed and published by ESP Magazine Ltd. The views expressed in this magazine are those of the individual writers and do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher. All design and artwork is the copyright of its respective owner. Reproduction of any part of this publication is strictly prohibited unless prior written consent is given by the publishers.

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Another new store is set to open in Queensgate and work starts on the shopping centre’s new £60m extension.

The footwear brand Skechers will be located on the Upper Mall in the former River Island unit and is due to open at the end of April.

This news coincided with the commencement of phase one works for the £60m extension of Queensgate. The initial works, carried out in partnership with John Lewis, are set to complete at the beginning of 2020 and the full extension by autumn 2021.

The extension, totalling 77,000sq ft, will be anchored

by a 10-screen Empire cinema and create 200 job opportunities once complete, adding 10 per cent to the total number of people employed

by Queensgate. John Lewis is investing in its store as part of the overall proposal to create a new and enhanced retail layout, showcasing its latest store design.

The new Skechers store will offer a selection of Skechers’ 3,000 styles for men, women and children, complementing Queensgate’s growing mix of retail and leisure. River Island upsized last year into a new larger store alongside Joules in the former BHS unit. The luxury crystal jewellery brand Swarovski has also now opened upstairs next to Oasis.

If you love your Mediterranean food set a date in your diary for one of the biggest celebrations of Italian culture in the country.

The eleventh annual Peterborough Italian Festival will be held in Cathedral Square this summer and making a special guest appearance is one of the UK’s best-loved chefs, Gennaro Contaldo.

The hugely popular event has traditionally been held in September, but this year’s event will take place on Saturday July 6 and Sunday July 7.

Gennaro, who is famed for teaching his protege Jamie Oliver all he knows about Italian cooking, will share his culinary expertise and hold cooking demonstrations.

The free event is organised by Peterborough's Italian Community Association and supported by Peterborough City Council, offering a wide range of tantalising sweet and savoury food.

Gennaro will be present on the Sunday and his appearance adds to a bumper list of activities planned for both.

The festival runs from 12noon to 5pm on both days.

For more information visit www.peterborough.gov.uk.

SUMMER ACTIVITY @ THE GREYHOUNDS It’s not just about the racing at Peterborough Greyhound Stadium, the team have also lined up some summer holiday fun for the kids too.

They’re planning four Children’s Activity Weeks running from Monday July 29 – a Football Camp, Sports Camp, Theatre School and Circus Skills.

They’ll run from 8.30am to 9.30am with a Breakfast Club, 9.30am to 4.30pm for the Activity Week, and there’s a 4.30pm to 6pm Late Club.

It’ll cost from £145 per child per week so check their website for full details and get booked in. www.peterborough greyhounds.com.

EASTER FUN @ HARVEST BARN On Saturday April 13 Harvest Barn farm shop near Farcet are hosting their first Easter Fun Day. You can embark on the Easter egg hunt to win a sweet treat, explore Mr McGregor’s Garden and plant vegetables of your own, meet their new baby goats, Monty and Bo, up close and personal (booking required) and children can meet Peter Rabbit himself and have a photo with him in their Easter trailer!

OASIS FASHION STORE OPENING IN STAMFORD

This month sees fashion retailer Oasis add to the mix in Stamford. The new store opens on the High Street on Good Friday April 19.

VODAFONE ROLLS OUT GIGAFAST BROADBAND IN THE CITY

Vodafone Gigafast Broadband is here and it’s set to give you download and upload speeds 20 times and 150 times faster than the average fixed broadband connection in the UK. With Gigafast Broadband, Vodafone is helping to bring full fibre to Peterborough households that currently don’t have gigabit-capable connections!

If you’re interested in signing up you can meet the team and register your interest at various locations.

From April 1 - 7 they’ll be in Cathedral Square, from April 8 - 14 they’ll be in the St Pauls Road area, from April 15 - 20 they’ll be in Dogsthorpe Central Avenue and at the end of the month you’ll find them on Lincoln Road around the St Pauls Road area from April 21 - 27.

The latest areas where you can now order Vodafone Gigafast include Lincoln Road (between St Pauls Road and Rock Road), Dogsthorpe Newark Avenue/Garton End Road and adjacent roads) Fullbridge Road (north of the parkway and parts of Itter Park Crescent and adjacent roads) Welland Road (between the Post Office and parkway, Furze Ride and adjacent roads).

If you’re keen to sign up, other areas where it’ll be available very soon include Welland Road (between the Blue Bell Inn and Post Office), around Fulbridge Road (south of the parkway between Fulbridge Academy and the Francis Gardens area) and Parnwell (north of the shops, Saltersgate and adjacent roads).

SPRINGFIELDS PLANS NEW SHOPS

Springfields Outlet is hoping to expand adding more than a dozen new stores and eateries.

Springfields Outlet, has already developed into a new shopping and leisure destination but recently announced proposals for a major new investment in the centre which could see around 15 new stores and new cafes and restaurants being built.

Ian Sanderson of SLR Outlets, who operate Springfields said: “I’ve been involved with Springfields Outlet since the very beginning and 2018 was undoubtedly our most successful year, despite the challenging retail environment nationally. During last year new retailers including Joules, Jack Wills, White Stuff and The Cosmetics Company Store have all opened stores here. Also the new family attraction Adventure Land has welcomed thousands of people since it opened in the summer.”

The future improvements to Springfields Outlet are proposed on Camel Gate, on the site of the NFU Mutual building and the car park next to Travelodge.

The proposed new development includes 15 new stores for well-known brands; up to four new restaurants and cafes; 236 additional parking spaces, and the introduction of more electric vehicle chargers.

Information about the extension plans are available on the dedicated website www.springfieldsnewstores.co.uk.

LocalEntertainment

The Dreamboys It’s time to make a date with the boys for your next girls’ night – The Dreamboys!

It’ll be a hot night at the Cresset when the UK's most famous and successful show of its kind makes a return on Thursday April 18. Their breath-taking show spectacular has been perfectly created for hen nights, birthday parties and a girl’s night out with all your mates.

With special guest appearances on some of the UK's biggest TV shows such as The X-Factor, Britain's Got Talent and Celebrity Big Brother, it’s your turn to see them live in an action packed 2-hour show.

Standard tickets are £26, premium tickets £29 and it’s definitely one for over 18s, book now on 01733 265705.

He Writes The Songs – The Manilow Songbook It’s time for some Manilow magic at the Cresset so get set for some Copacabana, Mandy and Can't Smile Without You. Canadian and worldwide acclaimed musician, Bryant Olender recreates the ambience of Manilow in concert as he skilfully leads a wonderful cast and accomplished band performing two hours of the hits of this multimillion record selling artist.

As Michael Bublé’s former Musical Director and pianist, Bryant ensures show goers experience hit after hit in the blockbuster show.

The show starts at 7.30pm on Friday May 3 and tickets from £24.50 are available from the box office by calling 01733 265705, or online at www.cresset.co.uk.

Les Musicals This show will be doubly good as two singing stars join forces to bring us the ultimate celebration of musical theatre.

Two of the world's finest voices, Jonathan Ansell (G4 frontman) and Jai McDowall (Britain’s Got Talent winner) bring their amazing vocal talents together in this dynamic concert packed with even more smash-hit songs from the greatest musicals of all time.

If you love the songs from classics like Les Misérables, Phantom of the Opera, Blood Brothers, Wicked, Jesus Christ Superstar, The Greatest Showman, Miss Saigon, Chess, We Will Rock You and many more this is the one to see!

After sell-out shows in 2018, this concert on Tuesday May 7 is one not to be missed as it returns for its second exciting year. Book now on 01733 265705.

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Wind in the Willows Another of our talented local theatre groups, Peterborough Revellers, bring us their latest production and it’s perfect for all the family.

Join Toad, Ratty, Mole and Badger in their series of adventures in the society’s forthcoming production of Wind in the Willows, the family musical adapted for the stage by Julian Fellowes from Kenneth Graham’s much loved classic novel.

This riotous comedy follows the impulsive Mr Toad whose insatiable need for speed lands him in serious trouble. With his home under threat from the notorious Chief Weasel and his gang of sinister Wild Wooders, Toad attempts a daring escape leading to a series of misadventures to recapture his beloved Toad Hall. This show at the Key Theatre promises to be great fun with a glorious original score.

It runs from Thursday May 2 to Saturday May 4 nightly at 7.30pm with a Saturday matinee at 2.30pm. Tickets are available from the box office on 01733 207239 or visit www.vivacity.org.

The Lady In The Van Peterborough Mask Theatre bring us The Lady in the Van, the play by Alan Bennett which was recently turned into a film.

This warm and funny play is the story of The Lady, Miss Shepherd, who proudly lived in her increasingly distasteful camper van and how she inexplicably arrived in Alan Bennett’s driveway. He expected it to be for a couple of months. She stayed 15 years. This incredible true story sees an ordinary London street in the 1960s turned upside down by the Lady in the Van. The play’s being presented by the long established theatre group Peterborough Mask Theatre in the The Key Studio and runs from Wednesday April 17 - Saturday April 20 at 7.45pm with a 2.30pm Saturday matinee. Tickets are £12 on 01733 207239.

The Little Mermaid It’s Easter which is a great excuse for more panto fun! The Cresset is taking us on an undersea adventure full of feel-good family music with The Little Mermaid. Complete with glittering sets, sparkling costumes and a laugh a minute script, it promises to keep the family amused and away from all the choccie temptations, for a while at least!

Join the Little Mermaid as she tries to find her feet with the help of her friend Crab-Stick. Under the guidance of her father, ruler of the sea, she’ll also be trying to make sure the evil Ursula doesn't steal her voice!

The Cresset really is the plaice to be this Easter on Sunday April 14!

Tickets are £13.50, concessions £11.50 and family discounts are available, book now on 01733 265705.

Peterborough Arts Cinema This month’s Thursday screenings at the John Clare Theatre inside the Central Library on Broadway are another eclectic mix of movies.

On Thursday April 11 it’s Bad Times at the El Royale starring Jeff Bridges and Chris Hemsworth amongst other star names.

Thursday April 18 it’s Widows starring Viola Davis and Michelle Rodriguez followed by BAFTA nominated Italian movie Dogman on Thursday April 25 about a small and gentle dog groomer who finds himself involved in a dangerous relationship.

For all the details visit www.peterboroughartscinema.co.uk.

The History Boys by Lamphouse Theatre The idea of being an actor isn’t for everyone, but for Peterborough born Tom Fox it was the ultimate dream. The roar of the crowd and the smell of the greasepaint propelled him into the world of drama school auditions at just 17 years old.

Several years later, in 2013, Lamphouse Theatre was born.

Proudly based in Peterborough Lamphouse Theatre now boasts Tom as its artistic director and Becky Owen-Fisher as its producer.

Over the last six years Lamphouse has brought their signature style to a host of stories, including Peter Pan, which first toured over Christmas 2017, Beauty and the Beast in December 2018, and the true story of the Gunpowder Plot back in 2016 as part of Jumped Up Theatre’s first ever Platform8 Festival. They even told the whole history of Peterborough in just one hour at 2018’s Vivacity Heritage Festival, with their performance of This Is Peterborough.

And things are set to get bigger and better. This May, Lamphouse is bringing Alan Bennett’s wildly popular dark comedy The History Boys to the main stage of the Key Theatre.

Set in the 1980s, The History Boys, tells the story of eight students as they finish sixth form and face the adult world.

Returning to school for one more term after their top A level grades, the group learns about life, love and literature from their unusual English teacher, in preparation for university entrance exams.

How does one teach history, in fact what even is history?

Staff rivalries, obsessions with Oxbridge, adolescent emotions, and a very young new supply teacher provoke a riot in an otherwise uniform Grammar.

The History Boys is presented by Lamphouse Local, a new project by Lamphouse Theatre to bring together professional theatre makers and local young performers, creating quality, gender-blind theatre.

Artistic director Tom Fox explains – “Lamphouse Local is a project I’ve been really keen to create for a long time. I have spent several years directing shows in London, Edinburgh, Norwich and elsewhere, and coming back to Peterborough I realised there was very little opportunity for hopeful young actors to find professional experience within the city.

Peterborough has an amazing youth theatre offering and some really excellent amateur societies but there’s not much in between for young people who want to find out more about the professional theatre world.”

The History Boys is sure to be a hot ticket, so don’t miss out.

Tickets are £15 for adults and £12.50 for concessions and are available to book on the Vivacity website.

You can also take advantage of a ticket offer in conjunction with Peterborough Mask Theatre who are performing Bennett’s The Lady in the Van from April 17 - 20 in the Key Studio. Purchase a ticket for The Lady in the Van and you can claim £2 off your full price ticket for The History Boys (offer only available at the box office or by telephone on 01733 207239).

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LocalEvents

Vivacity Lines Up Easter Treats It’s finally Easter – and that means it’s time to entertain the kids!

Checking out what’s on it seems like Vivacity’s various venues across the city including local sports centres, libraries, Peterborough Museum and the Key Theatre have it pretty much in hand.

If you still need to stick with the 9 to 5, Vivacity run holiday clubs from April 8 – April 18 packed with a range of fun activities, themed days including LEGO, Marvel and Army days to keep the kids occupied from 8.30am – 5.30pm.

There are also plenty of other fun events lined up so why not try some of these…

Easter Eggstravaganza Join in with a range of Easter themed crafts and fun at Peterborough Museum on Saturday April 20 from 10am - 3pm.

Admission’s £3 for children, £4 for adults, £12 for families, under 5s go free.

Peterborough Museum. Take them along on Monday April 8 – Friday April 12 or from Monday April 15 – Thursday April 18 for the chance to discover Peterborough's treasures in this special exhibition, and then uncover their own. Admission is £5 per child.

Peterborough is Revolting Awesome Archaeology If the kids like an adventure, how about a go at digging through history? Flag Fen is the place to head on Monday April 8, Friday April 12, Monday April 15 and Thursday April 18 from 10am-5pm.

Flag Fen is the site of a mysterious timber causeway and platform made by people 3,500 years ago. Today it’s also home to a play area, fascinating wildlife and the 'Big Dig Tent' - a dedicated area to give children their first experiences with archaeology and excavation.

Admission is £5 child & concession, £8 adults, £20 for a family (2 adults, 3 kids).

Treasure Seekers Here’s a chance for kids to become a time travelling treasure seeker in this morning of history, fun, craft and exploration at

See the Peasants' Revolt of 1381 come to life at Longthorpe Tower - which side are you on?

Head to Longthorpe on Saturday April 13 or Sunday April 14 between 10am and 4pm Admission is £3 child & concession, £4 for adults, £12 for a family (2 adults, 3 kids).

Crazy Confectionery Everybody loves sweets – particularly the kids right? Here’s an opportunity to make their own confectionery inspired Easter decorations and to learn about the historic Baker Perkins factory, where machinery was invented to make immense supplies of biscuits, chocolates and sweets.

Drop in between 10am and 2pm on Thursday April 11 or book at the Central Library. It’s suitable for ages 4-14, and admission’s £2, children will need to be accompanied by an adult.

Easter Fun @ Springfields For a trip out of town head to Springfields Outlet in Spalding for plenty of fun for the kids and the chance to bag a bargain and something to eat too.

The centre is staging a massive Easter Egg Hunt starting on Saturday April 6 at 9.30am.

Follow the trail in the Festival Gardens and solve the clues. Then receive a chocolate egg, activity pack and entry to their colouring competition for a chance to win a Nintendo Switch in Red with Sports Party and Super Mario Odyssey games with starter kit which includes case, covers, thumb grips and screen (RRP £347.96). It costs £6 per child and to book either call into the 8

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information point or call in advance on 01775 760909.

In addition to the egg hunt there’s plenty more family fun planned over the Easter holidays From April 8 – 14 you can take the kids to meet the animals in a mini farm with two pygmy goats, llama, two pigs and a mini pony between 12 noon and 4pm each day.

Meet the spring lambs from April 15 – 22 with their handlers between 12 noon and 4pm.

If your little ‘uns are more creative then head down between April 6 and 22 between 10am and 2pm and let them paint an egg cup in the Craft Outlet. Book in advance on the Craft Outlet's Facebook page or phone direct on 01775 722249.

Rollers Skating Sessions Vivacity’s rollers skating sessions have the latest music, state of the art lighting and sound systems, plus a DJ taking special requests.

They’re held every Saturday at Werrington Leisure Centre and the first Sunday of every month at Bushfield Leisure Centre. No need to book just pay on arrival.

Family Shows @ the Key Theatre There are plenty of great family shows taking to the stage at the Key Theatre throughout April too so it’s well worth checking out the full programme on www.vivacity.org.

From The Amazing Bubbleman on Sunday April 7 and There Was An Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly on April 8 and 9, there’s also a film screening of Mary Poppins on Sunday April 14 and who doesn’t like Sooty? He’ll be dropping in with Sweep and Soo on Wednesday April 17 with his magic show!

The history of the Broadway Theatre would make a great drama in its own right with highs and lows taking Peterborough audiences through an emotional performance over recent years. at opportunities for venues of about 1,000 capacity and met with the Dawe Charitable Trust to see first of all – was this viable for us?

Does the theatre fundamentally have an issue engaging with an audience or is it more to do with the previous administration?

“It became more apparent to us that there was a huge love and need for a theatre of this scale in the city to provide theatre, dance, music and comedy and that the opportunity for us to come in as a company, who have a lot of productions ourselves, but also an understanding of how to develop audiences and different market places – the opportunity was there for us to come in and work with the Trust to give this theatre a future.”

David Hutchinson (L) and Phillip Rowntree (R) Selladoor Worldwide

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e’ve rooted for it as a venue and those that have tried to save it, booed the baddies and at times demanded our money back – but now the latest act in its story sees a new hero take centre stage and at last we can confidently settle in our seats again.

The highly successful production company Selladoor Worldwide are set to raise the curtain again on the Peterborough New Theatre – a new name for a venue that’s entering a new era.

The ESP team were invited along for a coffee and a chat to meet the guys taking centre stage…

How has this arrangement come about?

David Hutchinson CEO Selladoor Worldwide – “We were one of the people who had an event in the season that was pulled with the previous administrator, so it was clear to us early on that unfortunately the theatre was failing a year ago.

“At the same point Selladoor as a company, which for the last 10 years had been producing productions, musicals, family shows, dramas etc all over the UK, had more recently been moving into venues in terms of hospitality and programming. We were looking

Are you entirely responsible for running it?

David Hutchinson – “We’re 100 per cent in charge of operating the building, staffing, box office, hospitality, and programming events.

“We have a relationship with the Trust who are essentially our landlords and have a long term commitment to this building. But when it comes to the operation it’s 100 per cent Selladoor – that’s the only way we understand how to build all the different economies in the daytime and the evening and give the audience an experience where they want to come back.”

What reassurances will you give to customers who’ve been failed in the past?

Phillip Rowntree (CFO) – “I think what we have is a history of creating work and sustained work – you just have to look through our history and see that when we commit to doing something, we do it and we see it through.

“We’re bringing a lot of technology into the building that is crucial to a modern theatre. We’re not approaching this as a quick win either – we’re in this for the long haul, we have a lot of work to do and we’re prepared to do it.

“What we’re looking to do is provide confidence to audiences that we’re going to have a good solid programme, that the work that we book and people buy tickets for is happening, and we’ll do that by doing it – people will see that the events are in the diary and stay in the diary and that they’re on the night we said they’re on.

That will be the way of improving confidence.”

What’s on the programme so far…

Avenue Q

Will shows by Bill Kenwright Ltd be coming back?

David Hutchinson – “We hope so. We’ve got a good relationship with them and they bring a huge amount of audiences for the musicals they produce which are well loved and have a history of playing.

“Our first priority is to get all the infrastructure in, to get the doors open and make the people of Peterborough aware this building is open for business and that isn’t just about buying tickets to see shows, it’s having a coffee, a glass of wine, a jazz club on Sundays – it’s all the economies – and we’ve got a lot of work to be done before we launch our big season in the autumn just to get all that infrastructure right.

“

with that we believe the trust and confidence of other producers in our sector will come too.

“This has come from a highly developed plan for this building and as Phillip says it’s not an overnight win, it’s something where we’ll have to build the trust of our patrons and of our producing partners – but it starts first of all with quality work put in at an accessible price to bring people back into this building. Everyone we’ve been meeting today has a shared love of this building being what it’s meant to be, a theatre for Peterborough, and a sense of anything else like a block of flats – nobody wants that – everyone’s aiming for the same thing.”

” Selladoor Worldwide is one of the UK’s leading touring theatre producers and no. 38 in The Stage 100’s 2019 list of most influential people working in the performing arts industry.

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The Peterborough New Theatre joins The Landmark Theatre, Ilfracombe, and Queen’s Theatre, Barnstaple, under the operation of Selladoor Venues, alongside the Pavilion Theatre, Blackpool, in partnership with the Blackpool Entertainment Company.

Wednesday October 2 – Sunday October 6 Tickets: From £19.50 Age Guidance: Ages 3+ Produced by Selladoor Worldwide

The Mousetrap Monday November 4 – Saturday November 9 Tickets: From £18.00 Produced by Adam Spiegel Productions

The Wizard of Oz

Box Office: 01733 852992 www.newtheatrepeterborough.com

“I think we’re also leading by example – you’ll see in our first season a number of our musicals in the mix which is really exciting.

We want to show that we as a production company have confidence in this theatre and

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Madagascar – The Musical

Saturday December 14 – Tuesday December 31 Tickets: From £12.00 Produced by Prime Pantomimes

...we’re in this for the long haul, we have a lot of work to do and we’re prepared to do it.

About Selladoor

Tuesday September 24 – Saturday September 28 Tickets: From £19.50 Age Guidance: Ages 14+ Produced by Selladoor Worldwide

Facebook: @PboroNewTheatre Twitter: @PboroNewTheatre Instagram: @PboroNewTheatre

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Selladoor Worldwide began its life as Sell a Door Theatre Company in 2009, developing rapidly under co-founders David Hutchinson (CEO) and Phillip Rowntree (CFO) into an integral player in the UK and Ireland’s regional theatre landscape. The company has since established itself as a leading producer of mid and large-scale touring theatre, with an ever-increasing international presence.

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Selladoor Worldwide now have offices in Bangkok, New York and Shanghai in addition to headquarters in London, as they continue to produce and tour theatre worldwide.

LocalEvents

Queensgate Brings Summer Fashion to the City

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f like us you’re desperate for some sunnier times and want to shake off winter a fantastic fashion event with Ferne McCann is coming to Peterborough!

Queensgate Shopping Centre is set to reveal a sizzling new season of fashion at its spectacular free Summer in the City two-day event.

Celebrity personality Ferne McCann will officially launch the event on Saturday May 4 in a showcase of the latest trends, fashion tips and hottest looks. If you want to get on-trend and summer ready there’ll be stylists, make-up artists and experts in residency at the Summer in the City set in Central Square.

There’ll be four fab fashion zones in a living fashion set featuring an edgy graffiti wall in one zone through to chic hanging chandeliers in another.

A live DJ will set the beat throughout the weekend as shoppers can visit the Customisation Station where products bought in the centre can be personalised. Then, pose in the sky on a sky scraper beam in front of a New York skyline backdrop – creating a stunning sharable moment, before taking time out of city life in Central Park.

This chill out area, with lush grass and seating, will include story telling for the younger fashionistas, plus much more.

“Summer in the City is our big fashion event

of the year and gives a chance for our retailers to come out and show their new season lines,” said marketing manager at Queensgate, Laura Chandler. “Ferne McCann is the voice of our radio campaign throughout 2019 and we’re extremely excited to welcome her to Queensgate to officially launch the event.

“This event is suitable for men and women of all ages and fashion styles. Whether you’re looking to upcycle, find a new staple piece or want to nail those contours, Summer in the City has something for everyone with fashion.”

If you want to know what’s in for the new season head down either day on May 4 and May 5 to catch talks from their fashion experts about the must-have styles. New trends include

animal print and tie-dye and to help create that killer look there will also be the biggest brands in beauty and make-up on hand to help complete your revamp.

The event celebrates the launch of Queensgate’s Spring/Summer19 Q-Style magazine – the fashion grab-mag features exclusive fashion shoots, inspirational gift ideas and advice on how to get the most out of this season’s fashion. Pick up a free copy in the centre.

More details about the event will be revealed on Queensgate’s social media pages and website nearer the event, including which retailers will be out in force. www.queensgate-shopping.co.uk

Fashion and Fizz Calling all fashionistas! Strike a pose at Fashion and Fizz charity fundraiser…

Photos: Chris Brudenell

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Personal stylists at John Lewis and Partners 12 www.espmag.co.uk

eterborough is going to be in fashion this May when a special style evening will be held at John Lewis & Partners Peterborough to raise funds for a local hospice.

Fashion and Fizz will see the Queensgate store’s personal stylists give informal style talks, fashion advice, a fragrance talk and sampling. They’ll show you how to wear an outfit two ways by dressing it up or down according to the occasion.

Sip on some fizz at the exclusive event on Thursday May 9, and take part in a prize draw.

The evening will raise funds for Sue Ryder Thorpe Hall Hospice in Peterborough, which provides expert palliative care and support for people who are living with life-limiting conditions, as well as supporting their families.

Donna Young, Head of Hospice Fundraising at Thorpe Hall Hospice, said: “Thank you so much to the team at John

Lewis & Partners Peterborough for hosting this fabulous evening of fashion to raise funds for our hospice. If you are going to a wedding, the races, or a party this summer, this is the perfect opportunity to get advice and styling from the experts. While the care we give is free to our patients, it costs us more and more each year. All funds raised at Fashion and Fizz will make sure we can carry on providing specialist care and being there when it matters for local families.”

Fashion and Fizz will take place at John Lewis & Partners Peterborough.

Arrival is from 5.30pm for a 6pm start.

Tickets cost £10 and include fizz and nibbles. They’re available from either the reception at Sue Ryder Thorpe Hall Hospice or Customer Services on the First Floor at John Lewis & Partners Peterborough.

For more information, contact the Fundraising Team at Sue Ryder Thorpe Hall Hospice on 01733 225999.

ManTown about

ano Pep Cipri pep.cipriano@espmag.co.uk

Immaculate Conception

Italian researchers are saying ‘a few’ beers a week can actually boost men’s fertility. Next they’ll be telling us a few slabs of tiramisu accelerates weight loss. Only in Italy.

Could ‘42’ Be New ‘The Bar’ Or Toho?

I

t’s been a long time coming but we just might have a venue that’s going to fill the void of legendary bars like The Bar, Café En Seine and TOHO… Forty Two is promising to deliver that vibe the city’s night scene is missing and this new addition to Broadway is set to open lateMay. Named after the number of the building, Forty Two is essentially the old Café En Seine site and after more than £600k spent refurbishing it, we should be in for a treat when it flings open its doors for the first time.

With the nearby Broadway Theatre (now Peterborough New Theatre) back in business, the timing couldn’t have been more perfect and I for one am pleased to see that end of town being given a boost for it to become a hive of activity like it was back in the day.

I grabbed a word with one of the Forty Two directors Masaud Iqbal and the lowdown sounds good...

Tell me then, what’s the plan for this exciting new venue?

“In short, we’re opening a cocktail bar with all the trimmings plus a tapas restaurant and shisha lounge in the garden.

CIAOS OUT: 14 www.espmag.co.uk

“The venue will also boast the Sky Bar, which is a room dedicated to private hire, plus a separate small private hire room too. At weekends we’ll have some of the best mixologists putting together some amazing cocktails in the main bar area and we’ll be offering waitress service to all seated tables.

“If you think along the same lines of The Bar and TOHO then that’s the kind of vibe we’re aiming to achieve.”

Would you say it’ll be unique to Peterborough?

“Yes we believe we are offering something very unique to Peterborough. It’ll be somewhere you can chill, enjoy some great drinks, cocktails, tapas and also Shisha only found in the best bars in London. We’re aiming at the 25-30+ market and we’re likely to be attracting people who remember those trendy bars of a few years ago.”

MY

WORD OF THE MONTH

FOOL In the spirit of April Fools Day I thought I’d have a bit more fun than usual and list a few nuggets of information about myself that you can decide whether or not to believe. So: I’m having an affair, I once ate sheep’s brain, I got a C in English, I’ve been arrested, I’ve never seen Lost Boys, I lost my virginity at 23, I used to have my own TV show, I’ve slept with Sarah Harding, Boy George made a pass at me and I see dead people.

And will you be open most days?

“It’ll be seven days a week and into the early hours on Fridays and Saturdays. We’ll be serving food well into the evenings too, which includes Sundays.”

Do you have any themed nights or events lined up?

“Yes, there are a few special nights planned for Bank Holiday weekends, which we will announce following our opening. We’ll also have a Happy Hour, Cocktail Masterclass courses, special guest DJ events and much more.”

So, there you have it! I know I get excited when a new venue opens but something tells me this one will be worth all my hype.

In the meantime check out the website www.fortytwo.bar.

CAUGHT IN

THE ACT! "The dragon do Stick to ordering esn't look impressed Mikey.

No. 29 at the Go lden Dragon."

‘Lettuce’ – it’s been emotional Dom – where’s our first event? Eddie – feedback please ‘Tuna’ – another Stoke? J – it tastes better with lemon TJ – am I getting a leg over?

Brave Chris the Poster Boy

Photo: theposh.com

So, it turns out ESP photographer Chris Brudenell didn’t need armed guards when he decided to run the Cambridge half marathon in – wait for it – a Peterborough United shirt!

He got a few dodgy glares and some cheers but it all helped him finish in a cracking time.

And as if drawing that kind of attention wasn’t enough, Chris is now

Marco just keeps on Giving!

Local fundraiser extraordinaire Marco Sementa has reached a massive milestone.

In March he organised his 100th charity football game, which meant that the total amount he’s raised for worthy causes has now tipped over the £100,000 mark.

Nearly £22k of this has been raised in football games alone. Incredible. Give this man a round of applause, a Civic Award or at least a case of Peroni!

Team Sementa isn’t stopping there. Marco’s currently planning a five-hour football game and his football team are taking part in the Havoc 5K run in Stanground.

As humble as ever, Marco told me: “I just really want to thank my wife Amy for her support and thank all the players, referees, sponsors, photographers and everyone else who’s got behind my journey.

“From what was an idea of staging five games to raise £500 in memory of my mum, we’re now at 100 games and over 600 players who’ve taken part. It’s gone from paying for pitches, borrowing kits and struggling to get a team, to sponsored pitches, sponsored kits and having 4050 players each week wanting to play.

“I’ve been able to raise money for Macmillan, Sue Ryder, Clic Sargent, East Anglian Air Ambulance, East Anglian Children’s Hospice, Mind, Make A Wish Foundation, Anna’s Hope, Boxing Futures, Steps, RNIB, Kidney Research, Andy’s Man Club and more. It’s been a great team effort.

fronting this year’s Perkins Great Eastern Run poster. Is there no end to this man’s charm?

I’ve known Chris for quite a few years and the Chris of old was more about directing behind the lens than being in front of it. His new-found confidence is a result of his weight loss and who knows where he’ll pop up next! Do we need a new PM?

Food at SAMM’s

by Summer SAMM’s have been in their new Bridge Street home for nearly four months and the response from city folk has been so good that Matt and the team will be introducing a food menu this summer.

Work has begun on installing a new kitchen but in the meantime April is about making some of their popular events more regular. So, expect live music every Saturday, Open Mic night every Thursday, more stand-up comedy, another drama open mic night, more DJs and perhaps most excitingly, a burlesque show on April 12.

Matt told me: “We’ve had regular live music, stand-up comedy, spoken word, DJs, drama, video games, original music, art battles and X-factor auditions. All have been met with a fantastic response and we’re really excited about making some of these a regular feature.

“We’re also looking forward to having a fully operational kitchen, which means we can serve food. We’ll have more news on that in a few weeks but in the meantime our customers should continue to check our Facebook page for daily updates and events. We’d also love to hear about any event ideas anyone might have. Don’t be shy, come in and speak to us! Or email info@sammspeterborough.co.uk”

The Park Reunion at Radius

“I know my family are proud which means the world to me. I want to teach my daughters that anyone can make a difference. I’m just a normal guy who had an idea – and with friends and family support it’s created something special. I know how proud my mum would be too and this helps me push even more to help more charities and raise even more money.

“The football matches will continue and I would like to thank Maccasports for being the official kit provider – and owner Ian McIntosh for sponsoring our kit and allowing me to sell Team Sementa kits, £10 of which go to charity.”

ESP was established two decades ago and 1999 was also the year when The Park opened its doors.

To mark this 20th anniversary, Suite Chocolate 2019 with Chris Goldfinger & The Park Posse takes place on Easter Sunday (April 21) at Radius.

It's going to be another packed reunion night (L'Aristo's part two is the day before) in the city centre and this night too is in aid of Cancer Research.

The Park was opened by brothers Del and Kav Singh and it was unique right from the start. Basically, it had two floors and the music couldn't be more different on each level. The Park was cleverly appealing to all of us, whether you were a self-confessed 'townie' like me or belonged to the alternative crowd.

After closing in 2008 The Park left a legacy of attracting thousands of clubbers and live music enthusiasts for their regular fix of music delivered by top DJs, bands and artists. I remember it opening in time for the Millennium celebrations and it later establishing itself as the venue to go to for Garage and Urban Dance music.

But what I don't remember is why I was photographed there in this phone-box. Can anyone help jog my memory please?! www.espmag.co.uk

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Take A Fresh Look With Platform8

Photo: Tristram Kenton

Clear your diary from May 7 - 17 for Season 6 of the Platform8 Festival in Peterborough, as Jumped Up Theatre bring an astonishing line-up of shows to a venue very near you.

Juliet & Romeo

H

eadlining is Lost Dog’s Juliet & Romeo – this fresh take on the classic love story explores how the starcrossed couple might have fared had they lived happily ever after. Does teenage passion survive parental angst?

This smart, sexy and funny dancetheatre show, performed by the charismatic and award-winning Ben Duke and the smouldering Solene Weinachter, brings its national tour, which includes the Linbury Theatre at The Royal Opera House, to Stanground College & Sports Centre on Thursday May 9 for a public performance, and for a schools matinee on Friday May 10.

From Covent Garden to Stanground – now that’s impressive!

Now Is The Time To Say Nothing has an equally inspiring pedigree. Created at London’s Young Vic Theatre the 2019 tour of this show started at the Old Vic in Bristol and will land at Peterborough Regional College on Friday May 10 and Saturday May 11.

Acclaimed theatre-director Caroline Williams has created a stunning, immersive video and audio travelogue with Syrian filmmaker Reem Karssli. Audiences start with headphones and a TV set and follow Reem’s journey from war-torn Damascus to her reluctant escape. Now Is The Time breaks down the barriers of 24-hour news and social media, to focus on one individual, human story, which will touch you like no other show this year.

You also need to keep your diary clear for MTV and YouTube spoken-word star Yomi Sode. COAT – Confessions Of A Teenager is at the Millennium Centre on Eastfield Road/Dickens Street for one performance only on Friday May 10. Yomi traces family memories and maps hopes for his future, as a young black man trying to defeat stereotypes, through food and stories that have been handed down from generations.

You get to eat Yomi’s cooking as part of the show, which will be followed by music by DJ Red Snapper.

A good night out is also guaranteed with Elise Heaven’s She’s A Good Boy at The Brewery Tap on Sunday May 12. Fresh from an acclaimed tour and sell-out shows at Battersea Arts Centre, Elise’s stories and songs about one person’s non-binary experience will open your hearts and make you laugh about absurdities, such as men’s vs women’s socks and dehumanising corporate uniform codes.

There are also more shows at The Key Theatre, from Kaleidoscope Thursday May 9 - Saturday May 11, a babies show about lights, to Talia Randall’s raucous spoken word cabaret, What Words Are Ours?, which incorporates spoken word, BSL, captioning and a star-studded line-up including Zoe McWinney.

Tickets start at £5, with lots of concessions. For more information, plus ticket links and news of free family theatre, workshops and talks with Caroline Williams and Lost Dog, go to www.jumpeduptheatre.com or check Platform8 out on social media.

This is the best theatre you will see all year in Peterborough, make sure you don’t miss a moment.

She’s A Good Boy

Now Is The Time To Say Nothing

Food Glori us Food It’s all Greek!

Thai @ The Tap this Easter If Thai food is your fave, The Brewery Tap on Westgate is a good family choice on Good Friday. Delicious Thai dishes will be served all day from 12noon – 10.30pm and there’ll be an Easter colouring competition and egg give away for the kids.

Aside from the Easter fun can we just ag up Wings Wednesdays which is another tasty treat to get you through that midweek blip. For just £8 you can enjoy a drink from a set selection and a plate of chicken wings cooked and avoured with some Thai tastes in whichever form you favour – grilled, crispy, barbecued, or chilli glazed and as spicy as you like. We think this deal could y (see what we did there?). It’s available at The Brewery Tap on Westgate from now until May, every Wednesday between 12 noon and 2.30pm for the lunchtime crowd and later from 5.30 – 10.30pm for the evening after work nibbles.

To book call 01733 358500.

Much loved pop-up mavericks, Bread Meat Cheese are back at The Lightbox CafĂŠ Bar on Friday April 12.

If you’ve already enjoyed their ‘Posh Dogs’ or ‘Bao Wow Buns’, their ‘Feast from the Middle East’ or the ‘Macho Mexicano’ pop-ups at the Bridge Street venue, then imagine the very best food you’ve eaten on a Greek holiday and book your seats now.

The three course menu kicks off with a trio of made from scratch meze with pitta: Tirokefteri (spiced feta), Fava (split yellow pea puree) and Hummus (chickpea and tahini). The centre piece of the main course will be a traditional Lamb Kleftiko, which for those who haven’t had the pleasure, is a long gentle cook of lamb on the bone with garlic, oregano, lemon and potatoes sticky with all the avours. To accompany the lamb will be Gigandes Plaki, large butter beans in a homemade tomato sauce alongside a simple Horiatiki fresh salad and Tzatziki. A vegetarian option of roasted vegetables with a white bean Skordalia will be available on a pre-ordered basis.

While the Greeks are perhaps best known for sweet desserts such as baklava and galaktoboureko, the two brothers behind Bread Meat Cheese both discovered on their separate travels to the inland Cretan village of Gavalochoria ‘kĂŠik’ made with honey and orange, served on this occasion with a Greek yoghurt ice cream, what’s not to like? Apparently the hand-written recipe took some translating!

These BMC pop-ups sell out quickly so to book your tickets priced at ÂŁ25 per head, call into The Lightbox CafĂŠ on Bridge Street or call 01733 894444.

Race To Enjoy Steak Nights @ The Greyhound Stadium Stake a bet while you err‌ enjoy a delicious steak in the restaurant at Peterborough Greyhound Stadium.

The popular venue is adding to the racing action by making Friday nights Steak Night until Friday April 26.

Enjoy a tasty dinner from ÂŁ20.45 per person with a choice of two steaks, including ďŹ llet, and a free drink.

Who knows if you’re lucky with your bets you could win back the cost of your meal, or more!

If you’re heading to the stadium over Easter and taking the family, there’ll be entertainment for the kids with Stripey Wipey, Easter egg give aways and the kids eat for half price in both restaurants – bargain! To book call 01733 296939.

Oundle Food Festival Announced Get the date in your diary for the fabulous Oundle Food Festival which has been announced for Saturday June 22.

Roll on summer we say as we can’t wait for this fantastic annual event to return.

There’ll be over 75 food and drink stalls packed with loveliness throughout Oundle town centre, as well as product stalls, music and family fun so make sure you’re not away when this event is on!

It preceeds the Oundle International Festival from July 4 -14 so add that one in while you’ve got your calendar open.

Check out www.oundlefoodfestival.com for more details.

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50% OFF Traditional English Pub Open for meals and snacks - 12pm to 9pm daily

Real food, Real ales, Real pub Orton Hall Hotel & Spa, The Village, Orton Longueville, Peterborough, PE2 7DN Tel: 01733 391111

ALL FOOD PURCHASES IN THE RAMBLEWOOD INN WHEN YOU SPEND ÂŁ30 OR MORE The ESP reader offer is only valid when you spend ÂŁ30 or more on food.

5IJT DPVQPO JT WBMJE BMM EBZ GSPN TU UP UI "QSJM BOE BGUFS QN PO 4VOEBZT The discount does not apply to spend on drinks or for group bookings of eight or more. To receive your coupon for 0% OFF food purchase, just text us the word RAMBLEWOOD along with your NAME and EMAIL address on the number shown or email offers@espmag.co.uk to receive your coupon along with your NAME and PHONE NUMBER. Alternatively log on to wXw.espmag.co.uk/offers and click on the Ramblewood offer and print out your voucher.

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Get set for Motorfest 2019 This one has really got the petrolheads in the ESP office excited and we bet you will be too if you like your cars and bikes.

King of the Jungle heads for Truckfest Peterborough For big wheel action, family fun and celeb’s it has to be Truckfest Peterborough.

If you’re looking for something to do over the first May bank holiday weekend Sunday May 5 and Monday May 6, head to the East of England Arena and Events Centre for this mighty day out that’s Europe’s premier trucking event.

Truckfest showcases a huge variety of trucks from giant American rigs, vintage vehicles to jaw dropping customised cabs. There’s plenty to entertain the kids – including over 2000 vintage, custom and modern trucks to see and sit in, and view the colourful artwork including paintjobs such as Despicable Me, Frozen, Toy Story, Marvel Heroes and many more!

Expect monster truck car crushing from Swamp Thing 4x4 and Slingshot, jaw dropping motorcycle stunt displays from Broke FMX, main arena action, a family fun fair, appearances from children’s princess and superhero characters, an inflatable kids’ zone and ride on mini Super Trucks.

Drool over the metal in the custom vehicle hall with trikes, bikes and classic cars and even boogie on down with acts on the live music stage including top tribute bands Gladness and Little Mixx!

Celebrity guests also appear throughout the weekend – including national treasure and King of the Jungle Harry Redknapp on Monday May 6 and YouTube vloggers Trucker Jay, Kev Tee and Luke and other star features include the Smokey and the Bandit truck on show!

For discounted advance tickets and the full line up visit www.truckfest.co.uk.

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Next month sees Motorfest 2019 take over the East of England Arena and Events Centre with more than 3,500 show stopping cars and motorcycles and a huge shopping village.

Motorfest is being held over three action packed days from May 25 – 27, the show gives you and the family the opportunity to not only take in some mind-blowing classic, motorcycles, trucks and super cars, but also really get into the spirit of the lifestyle and culture that surrounds them; the music, the fashion and the food.

The Gasoline Alley Shopping Village will feature around 800 trade stalls while the International Street Food Festival will

keep fuel in your tank as you make your way around this enormous event.

The incredible Heritage Insurance International Sports & Classic Car Show will have thousands of beautiful cars and there’ll be the best vintage and classic motorcycles in the country on show too.

Fans of modified cars won’t be disappointed with huge displays in the halls and over 200 car clubs showing a huge mix of cars. If you favour faster four wheel machines you can experience once in a lifetime passenger rides in some of the fastest supercars on the planet.

There’ll be amazing displays in the Live Action Arena with drifting, stunts and the world famous Terry Grant Stunt Team.

You can enjoy some amazing live entertainment too with Peterborough’s very own local heroes Austin Gold supporting international Scottish rock band GUN, and The Voice contestant Peter Donegan headlining the Sunday night Country Rock evening.

To see the full incredible line up of what’s on offer at this huge event visit www.motorfest2019.co.uk.

The Devitt MCN Festival of Motorcycling goes large!

It’s one of our favourite events and it’s back in the ‘boro next month, bigger than ever.

The Devitt MCN Festival of Motorcycling returns to the East of England Arena on the weekend of May 18 – 19 packed with tons of motorcycle racing action, high flying stunts, attractions and biking bargains!

With tickets at low prices and kids 15 and under getting in free this is a weekend event well worth visiting.

If you like all things bike this is the one to go to and there’s loads of new stuff lined up to enjoy. As well as thousands of bikes, six-time BSB champ Shakey Byrne will be interviewed on stage and will be available for signings and selfies on both Saturday and Sunday.

There’s DirtQuake the maddest, wackiest and

most bonkers race series in the world that takes place around a speedway oval. The racing is dirt track in style but with a lot more laughs! The Festival also boasts a full two day round of the (slightly more serious) DTRA race series that includes the thrilling and heavyweight Hooligan racing.

There are some jaw dropping stunt shows lined up including the impressive Arenacross Freestyle Motocross team and the Michelin sponsored Two Brothers stunt crew. There’ll be 40ft jumps, rolling burnouts, wheelies, stoppies, whips, flips and tricks galore!

It’s the only event in the UK where you can road test bikes from all the manufacturers in the same place. Just take your

licence and lid and book yourself onto as many rides as you can.

Save cash and book tickets online in advance.

Weekend camping is also available so for all the details and to book your tickets visit www.mcnfestival.com.

It seems we’re seeing the rise and rise of the mighty micro pub as these smaller venues pull in the punters.

The latest addition is the Wonky Donkey (we love the name) on Fletton High Street which has also got off to a cracking start.

are joining forces so look out for a special beer fest from Friday May 10 to Sunday May 12. It looks like there’ll be around 50 beers between the Wonky Donkey, The Bumble Inn on Westgate and The Frothblowers with a shuttle bus every 30 mins to each pub.

Photos: Don Rudd

We’ll have more on that in the next issue.

Pub of the Year It was a packed night at The Frothblowers micro pub in Werrington as the team received their Pub of the Year award from the local branch of CAMRA. Local members voted for the micro pub to win big and the pub’s team of landlord Steve Williams, Debbie Williams, Louise Lawrence and landlord John Lawrence were chuffed to have made such an impact.

Dickie Bird from CAMRA told ESP – “The trend in micro pubs is to be welcomed, especially where no pub exists, as is the case with the Wonky Donkey. Small pubs often thrive where a larger pub would struggle to find enough business to survive. They offer a different drinking experience, usually with no TVs, electronic sound systems, draught lager or food (other than snacks). Peterborough now has three (including the first on the scene The Bumble Inn on Westgate) - but expect more!”

We now hear that the micros

Congrats also have to go out to manager Chris and all his team at The Draper's Arms on Cowgate who’ve received a CAMRA Gold Award for maintaining the quality, consistency and range of their real ales.

Aragon is ready to get city looking smart…

We all like our city to look smart and now there’s a new team in charge making sure our streets, parks and recreational spaces are kept clean and tidy.

T

he new name behind these services and more, is Aragon Direct Services, a new trading company owned by the city council which is taking over these services from the current contractor Amey.

Aragon are now in charge of keeping our streets clean, bins collected and grass cut around the city.

Aragon Direct Services will start delivering these key services over the next couple of months: • 1 April 2019 - waste collection • 4 May 2019 - grounds maintenance, street cleansing, building maintenance services and home to school transport routes Other than the name change though, there’ll be little obvious change for us when it comes to 22 www.espmag.co.uk

having our bins emptied, the streets swept, parks and recreational spaces maintained and the provision of school transport.

There’s no need to worry as bin collection schedules and services will remain the same and will continue to be delivered by the same team of frontline staff within the new trading company, Aragon Direct Services.

If you’re wondering why bother with the change and the launch of this new trading company rather than the council just delivering the services back in-house, there are two main reasons.

A council spokesman told ESP – “Firstly the council has constraints on how it can raise and retain income from commercial operations. By creating a private limited trading company it has more freedom to trade with commercial businesses. The fact that the company is wholly owned means the council can retain a level of control of the company and benefit financially, helping offset the financial pressures that all local authorities are currently under. Therefore businesses and residents buying additional services from Aragon Direct Services are directly helping to invest in the city, protect front-line services and create more local jobs.

“The second reason is it will give the council greater control in how the services are delivered and can be more flexible in their approach, for

example, where priorities change and we want to amend schedules for a service such as grass cutting this can be arranged more easily than if through an outsourced contract.”

Aragon Direct Services is the trading name of Peterborough City Council’s registered Local Authority Trading Company, Peterborough Limited. As such, its fully accountable to the council and its elected representatives.

If you have any issues to report just get in touch on www.peterborough.gov.uk/report, email ask@peterborough.gov.uk or call 01733 747474.

“

...residents buying additional services from Aragon Direct Services are directly helping to invest in the city...

”

Gavin Miller’s

gavin.miller@espmag.co.uk

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Movie Previews

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Cast: Robert Downey Jr, Chris Evans, Mark Ruffalo, Chris Hemsworth Directors: The Russo Brothers This could just have the biggest box-office opening of all-time – as the highlyanticipated final part of the current Avengers story and ‘The Infinity Saga’ comes to a close.

After the devastating events of Infinity War, the universe is in ruins.

With the help of the remaining allies – who didn’t perish when Thanos (Josh Brolin) decimated half of the universe’s population – the Avengers must assemble once more to try and undo the actions of The Mad Titan who inflicted his will on all of reality after acquiring the six Infinity Stones.

But on Earth, Captain America (Chris

Evans), Thor (Chris Hemsworth), Bruce Banner/Hulk (Mark Ruffalo), Black Widow (Scarlett Johansson) and co, have a secret weapon in the form of the majestically super-powered Captain Marvel (Brie Larson), and they must dust themselves down to try and repair the damage caused

by Thanos – and restore harmony to the cosmos in the process.

There’s absolutely no doubt this is going to be a superhero movie of gargantuan proportions, as Phase Three of Marvel’s Cinematic Universe draws to a truly emphatic – and maybe even emotional – conclusion…

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PET SEMATARY

SHAZAM!

This remake of the classic Stephen King supernatural horror sees the Creed family – led by Jason Clarke’s (Dawn of the Planet of the Apes) Louis – move from Boston to a rural home in Maine. But when they discover a mysterious pet burial ground hidden deep in the woods near their new house, a perilous chain of events unleashes an unfathomable evil when the recentlydeceased family cat is buried there.

Troubled 14-year-old orphan Billy Batson (Asher Angel) can change into a godlike adult superhero (Zachary Levi) by simply uttering the word ‘Shazam!’ – after an ancient wizard imbues him with these new powers. Set in the DC Universe after the events of Justice League, Batson must learn to use his new skill set wisely – particularly when Mark Strong’s nefarious villain Thaddeus Sivana arrives on the scene.

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MISSING LINK

HELLBOY

The latest stop-motion animation from the geniuses at Laika – the studio responsible for the likes of ParaNorman and Kubo and the Two Strings – has an all-star cast that boasts Stephen Fry, Emma Thompson and Matt Lucas. It follows Hugh Jackman’s ‘myths and monsters investigator’ Sir Lionel Frost, who sets off on an adventure to prove the existence of the legendary Bigfoot creature Mr Link (Zach Galifianakis).

Despite the critical acclaim of the 2004 and 2008 films – which sadly failed to set the box-office alight – the iconic Dark Horse graphic novels’ character has been rebooted with Stranger Things’ actor David Harbour replacing Ron Perlman. Caught between human and supernatural worlds, the title character battles Mila Jovovich’s ancient sorceress bent on revenge – as this aims to reignite the franchise.

DEVIL MAY CRY 5 (X1/PS4)

This latest entry in the legendary action franchise continues the high standard set by previous entries – and the fifth DMC instalment definitely runs.

With three main protagonists – series mainstays Dante, Nero and newcomer V – tackling a new demonic invasion is extremely satisfying in this high-octane combo system-influenced hack n’ slasher sequel, that oozes style from every pore.

It may feel a little padded at times with lulls in the level design and puzzling elements, but with such competent mechanics – combined with its fascinating characters and nice touches of humour – this is undoubtedly a devilish return to form for the series after the last instalment had split the fan base.

This time round there shouldn’t be any crying.

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FAR CRY: NEW DAWN (PS4/X1/PC) This direct sequel to the criticallyacclaimed Far Cry 5 may have an extended DLC feel – but fans of the franchise should still get a lot out of it.

Set 17 years after a global nuclear catastrophe, civilisation re-emerges from the chaos to find a world dramatically changed, and the populace of Hope County, Montana, have gathered into different groups to battle for survival – particularly when the vicious Highwaymen gang look to bleed people of their resources.

With Far Cry’s exceptionally familiar core gameplay, this is more of the same – just with a different skin and a few twists and turns – which leads to this ultimately being a watered-down Far Cry 5-esque adventure rather than a new dawn. But it still provides a satisfying new day.

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THE LEGO MOVIE 2 (X1/PS4/NSW)

The new Lego Movie game takes a risky change of direction after the tried and tested formula was done so well with the last very impressive Legobased iteration DC Super-Villains – and for the most part it works.

Gone are the levels structure that has come before, being replaced by a (semi) open world adventure that should still do enough to satisfy its core kids audience – but those familiar with previous games may find it hit-andmiss.

Playing as Emmet, Wyldstyle, Batman and co – with variety thrown in by the likes of General Mayhem and Rex Dangervest – this is a colourfully fun experience as brick building takes over to unlock new worlds, and makes this a competent accompaniment to the movie.

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paparazzi Caught in the act?

Celebrations at The Ploughman and The Frothblowers…

We’ve been out an about capturing you in the act of having a great time as we do each month.

This time our Paparazzi photographer Mike Harris dropped into The Frothblowers in Werrington. This mighty micro pub is going from strength to strength and was packed as usual. They’re celebrating the recent accolade of being named Pub of the Year by the local branch of CAMRA. There were more celebrations over at The Ploughman in Werrington centre where landlord Andy ‘Simmo’ Simmonds was having his birthday bash and a real knees up complete with Oompah band Ompahlievable. Happy Birthday Andy!

You can see all of our Paparazzi photos on our Facebook page.

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After 13 years, vocal powerhouse Christina Aguilera is finally back on tour and heading to the UK later this year.

ESP’s Sarah Tempest checks out her superstar status…

A

s if four fifths of the Spice Girls reforming wasn’t enough ‘Girl Power’ (or ‘People’ Power as they now, politically correctly, Sarah Tempest prefer) for one year, Christina Aguilera, poster woman for female empowerment, is also heading back out on a tour and will bring her X Tour to the UK in November.

The tour sees the six times Grammy Award winning singer songwriter returning to the UK after 13 years and she promises to deliver a belter of a show. As well as songs from her 2018 studio album, Liberation, Christina will also perform the hits that we’ve come to love her for, such as Dirrty, Genie in a Bottle, Ain’t No Other

Man and, of course, that anthem for strong women everywhere Fighter.

Throughout her career, Christina has achieved success that must have seemed an impossible dream growing up in Pennsylvania. She’s sold more than 43 million records worldwide and achieved five No.1 singles on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, a feat that made her only the fourth female artist to top the chart over three consecutive decades (1990s, 2000s, and 2010s).

As well as those stunning accolades, Christina has also received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and holds the prestigious honour of being the only artist under the age of 30 included in Rolling Stone Magazine's list of the 100 greatest singers of all time.

But her success isn’t just limited to her music; in 2010 she turned her hand to acting, appearing in the movie Burlesque alongside Cher. Although the film itself wasn’t critically acclaimed (let’s be honest, the best bit of the movie was the costumes!)

Christina herself received positive reviews for her acting ability. Soon after, in 2011, she returned to her roots in television, firmly exorcising her early days alongside Justin Timberlake and Britney Spears in The Mickey Mouse Club, as a coach on NBC’s Emmy nominated show The Voice.

The plaudits don’t stop there either; fast forward a few years and Aguilera has fulfilled an ambition with an exclusive Las Vegas residency, firmly cementing her status as a singing superstar.

The new tour will kick off in Paris in July, and continue across Europe before she returns for her dates in Vegas in September. The tour then moves to Dublin in November before hitting the UK on November 7. Such has been the demand for tickets that she’s already added an extra date at Wembley arena.

Giving a taste of what the tour has to offer, Christina recently told the Mail Online – “This is the next chapter in something new, exciting, creative and epic for my fans. I'm such a visual person and I've been acquiring all these inspirations. You know I love a theme and a concept and I'm creating a specific world for this show.

'We're going to touch on a little bit of everything and make that into an amazing experience – which is the title of the show.”

To be honest it sounds like it’s going to be a corker of a show that will not leave Christina’s legion of fans disappointed.

The X Tour – Christina Aguilera 7th November 2019 Glasgow, SSE Hydro Arena 9th November 2019 London, The SSE Arena, Wembley 10th November 2019 London, The SSE Arena, Wembley 12th November 2019 Manchester, Manchester Arena 14th November 2019 Birmingham, Resorts World Arena Tickets are available now at www.LiveNation.co.uk.

28 www.espmag.co.uk

Let’s Get Out There

It’s finally time to shake off the winter blues and get out in the fresh air, so don’t hesitate, let’s get out there and make the most of the outdoors this spring…

Just down the road from Stamford and Peterborough is the hidden gem Tallington Lakes Leisure Park. Nestled in landscaped woodland surroundings are 205 acres of fresh water lakes for sports enthusiasts, holiday makers, kids parties or just a chilled fun family day out it’s perfect for some fresh air and fun.

The Watersports Centre, Water Ski & Wakeboard School and Climbing Centre all open in April for the new season.

Our resident ESP ‘action man’ Darren Grigas has tried out just about every activity at Tallington Lakes so if someone’s going to encourage you to get out and try something new it’s Darren.

Here’s his run down on some of the activities…

Water Skiing “I donned a snug wetsuit and life jacket provided by the park, they’ve got kit to lend but also have a huge 500sqm pro-shop full of kit for all sorts of sports for anyone wanting to buy their own. I was already suited up so headed to the water’s edge for a briefing from my driver and instructor Aaron. He was a top chap and talked me through every step of how to get into the water, hold the bar, stand up correctly and hopefully stay upright.

“I started with a few laps of the lake hanging onto a bar from the side of the boat.

Whilst I was in motion and focussing on not face-planting the water Aaron continued to shout across to me to correct my position where necessary and then we stopped for a quick pep-talk before setting off on the return leg of the lake, so far so good! There’s a big ramp in the water for the more experienced skiers, I’d love to tackle it one day but for now I was happy enough just standing up, maybe next time hey?”

Photos: Emma Bothamley

Jet Skiing

30 www.espmag.co.uk

“These are some big powerful machines and can really fly if you’re confident enough to give them a real go. To be honest you don’t even need to be going full whack to have a great ride skimming along the water.

“There are two lakes for jet skiing extending out to around 40 acres, that’s a great space to race around on. With each lap I pushed faster until I was giving it everything on the straights at least. These machines are awesome fun!

“I’ll certainly be rallying a gang together to head back and share the fun and I’d definitely recommend booking in to anyone who loves something a little more extreme.”

Get running…

Climbing “From the foot of the brilliant 15 metre climbing tower looking up it's a daunting but inviting structure, the four sides vary in difficulty getting progressively more challenging as your confidence grows and abilities improve. On each side of the tower the amount of holds become sparser and the angles of the walls along with overhangs and protrusions become more challenging.

“We started on the easiest route which very slightly leans away from you with plenty of holds to use, me and the kids all reached the top of this first wall with relative ease.

“Once we'd nailed the first wall we each tried the more difficult sides working up to the hardest wall facing an overhang when you're already about 7m up, at this point you realise it's not as easy as it looks from the ground. There’s certainly enough to challenge climbers of varied strength and ability.”

Having a goal is a great incentive to get you out and upping your fitness.

If you’re planning to run the Perkins Great Eastern Run on Sunday October 13, or tackle the Anna’s Hope Fun Run, the lighter nights and better weather are a great incentive to up your training. It’s great to get the kids involved too and out in the fresh air.

Stamford based charity Anna’s Hope are offering up to 300 free places into the fun run when children raise £30 or more for the charity.

Just £30 will fund one week’s specialist neuro-rehabilitation support for one child with a brain tumour and £125 is enough for a month’s care.

Children taking part in the Anna’s Hope Fun Run must be 16 years-old or younger and each child that raises at least £30 will be awarded a certificate in addition to the medal they receive for completing the run.

The 300 free places initiative is only open to children but adults can of course enter the Anna's Hope Fun Run and raise money for the charity or any other charity of their choice.

Any adult who raises more than £60 for Anna’s Hope will receive a free Anna’s Hope t-shirt to wear on the day of the run.

For fundraising forms and more information about the free entry initiative, email admin@annashope.co.uk or telephone 01780 740492.

Stand Up Paddle Boards (SUPs) “I’d been wanting to try Stand Up Paddle Boards for some time so finally I got to have a go. To be fair, it’s pretty straight forward, Craig our instructor briefed us on where to stand, how to hold the long paddle and encouraged me to try a few tricks in the hope I’d fall off. It was of course a success but hey, what’s the point in wearing a wetsuit if you’re not going to get wet right? After getting to grips with standing, kneeling and paddling along whilst ‘accidentally’ splashing each other we tried a few more ambitious moves. Then some headstands were attempted, yep the boards can actually be steady enough to try this, and I pretty much nailed it too by the third go (okay maybe the seventh or eighth).”

If you’d like to give it a try, Tallington Lakes are holding a Put The Paddle In Day on Saturday May 4, with Red Paddle Co, a chance to try SUPs and compete in some races.

Check out www.tallington.com for more details.

Get walking…

It’s time to sign up for the second Walk to Remember for Sue Ryder Thorpe Hall Hospice coming up on Sunday May 19.

Stretching your legs on a lovely route can’t be bad so get your name down and get walking.

Starting at The Boathouse pub, Thorpe Meadows, you’ll take in the river and woodland on a scenic 6.5K sponsored walk. You can wear a pin-on sign in memory of a loved one and your pooches are welcome too.

After all that exercise the walk, which is being sponsored by Whittlesey’s The GSH Group, will end with a special celebration back at the pub, where there will be a reflection area with a memory tree to write dedications on, as well as Sue Ryder staff on hand to talk to if needed.

This is the second year Walk to Remember has taken place; the 2018 event saw hundreds of walkers taking part and it raised over £10,000 for the hospice.

Organisers are hoping to raise even more this year.

To sign up for Walk to Remember on Sunday May 19, go to www.sueryder.org/walktoremember. www.espmag.co.uk

31

It’s not often you see a 30 foot Dragon Boat when you pop to Tesco but shoppers at Serpentine Green came face to face with this beast as we shouted about this year’s race.

ESP’s Mikey Clarke was there to bang the drum about this fun summer event and to encourage new teams to take part.

Local companies have already begun signing up for the race at the rowing lake on Saturday June 8 – including Holiday Inn Peterborough West, Buckles Solicitors LLP, Midco Care, Whirlpool and main sponsors IKEA to name just a few, but you don’t have to be a business to take part. Local sports clubs, community groups or just your mates from the pub could all get together and enter. Why not mark a special birthday or occasion?

ESP is proud to be the print media partner for the third year running and our ESP Motley Crew will be taking to the water once again, gunning for a win to mark our 20 years in print… well, at least hoping not to capsize!

It’s all great fun both on and off the water,

a perfect team building day whether you’re paddling the boat or enjoying the bankside activities.

The event will raise vital funds for Sue Ryder Thorpe Hall Hospice, which provides expert palliative care and support for people living with life-limiting conditions as well as supporting their families. Last year’s festival raised more than £35,000 for the charity.

Sue Ryder Thorpe Hall Hospice Community Fundraiser, Nilesh Patel, said: “We are thrilled to be the charity partner for the Dragon Boat Festival and can’t wait for the big day. Dragon boat racing is so much fun – it works really well for businesses or groups as a team building day, as a charity challenge or a family fun day. You don’t need previous experience – just plenty of fighting spirit! All funds raised will make sure we can carry on providing our specialist care and being there when it matters for local people and their families.”

For more information and to enter the festival, please visit www.dragonboatfestivals.co.uk/ peterborough.

Photo: Emma Bothamley

Shoppers set sail at Serpentine Green ahead of Dragon Boat Festival

Your skin can take a real battering in the winter so if you want to give your complexion a spring clean now is the perfect time for some TLC. The team at My Body Essentials are feeling generous as they’re celebrating their birthday and as they head into their 10th year they want to share the treats.

If you buy a course of radio frequency facial treatments you’ll get your fourth session free – that’s a 25% saving and you’ll feel 100% better with a brighter glow!

Over the past few years MBE has enjoyed great success and owners Mary and Martin have added a large range of treatments to their menu to keep us looking great. IPL hair removal is still hugely popular – who doesn’t want to be fuzz free for the summer?

We’re all battling the wrinkles and lines but their radio frequency and skin rejuvenation treatments make a big difference and if

stretch marks are making you cover up, micro needling can really help.

For wobbly bits that just won’t go the Lipo Belt body sculpting treatments are the answer.

Their treatments have also brought relief to many people suffering from skin conditions like acne and rosacea, as well as warts and moles which are treated with their Cryopen system. And for those annoying red thread veins the ThermaVein® will zap them.

Once they’ve made you look and feel gorgeous you can keep up the care at home with their specialist range of professional strength skincare products.

There’s been a big trend for tattoos but that also means there are now many people regretting some bad choices and so MBE also offer laser tattoo removal. If you didn’t think about your ink before you opted for a dodgy design you might want to pop in for a chat.

Visit their website www.mybodyessentials.co.uk for details on all their treatments – or give them a call for a free consultation on 01733 234251, and don’t forget to wish them Happy Birthday!

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Our range of treatments correct damage, protect and enhance your skin • FREE Consultations • IPL Hair Removal • Skin Rejuvenation • Laser Tattoo Removal • Acne Treatments • Fine Lines & Wrinkles – Radio Frequency • Stretch Marks – Micro Needling • Thread Vein Removal – ThermaVein®

• Lipo Belt Body Sculpting • Skin Tags, Warts, Moles & Verrucae – Cryopen • Professional Strength Skincare Products

PROFESSIONAL CARE FOR REAL RESULTS! 5F Aston Business Park, Shrewsbury Avenue, Peterborough, PE2 7BX Telephone: 01733 234251 e: info@mybodyessentials.co.uk w: www.mybodyessentials.co.uk

Photo: Emma Bothamley

My Body Essentials

HeaLTH

and beauty

ESP’s Rachael Church has all the latest health and beauty news…

April is my favourite month of the year. We have an excuse to eat loads of chocolate eggs, the spring weather arrives in its full glory, and it’s my birthday… which means if I’m lucky I get super spoiled.

Getting a year older is always a great time to reflect, and for me that includes my health and beauty routines – what bad habits have I fallen into, and how could I be looking after myself better. Almost like a new set of resolutions for post birthday.

To help me on my quest, here’s my health and beauty birthday wish list which I’ve gathered from local places ready for the big day.

Clarins Toning Lotion – For Normal/Dry Skin, 200ml £21 from John Lewis, Queensgate In a bid to ensure I’m looking after my skin impeccably. This award winning toner balances, protects, softens and moisturises. It’s also refreshing – wakes the skin up in the morning and the smell is beautiful.

Goddess Vegan perfume from Lush £45 from Lush, Queensgate Be kind to your skin with this Lush perfume. These products are handmade, ethical, with no plastic packaging. It’s perfume, sourced from responsibly managed nurseries in Thailand. Who needs the usual big name brands with this special find?

rachael.church@espmag.co.uk

sPrinG fiTness – Try rackeTBaLL Do you want ideas of how to improve your health and fitness locally this summer?

Why not give squash (or its slightly easier sister sport, racketball) a go. Dubbed ‘the world’s healthiest sport’ by Forbes, squash helps you burn hundreds of calories and become much more agile in the process.

I recently attended a fundraiser at Peterborough Town Sports Club, which saw members take to the four squash courts and raise over £734 for the Peterborough Parkinson’s charity. The club wanted to support member, Ken Lewis, who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s and continues to play racketball to benefit his long-term health.

I was inspired and found out that there are plenty of ways you can get involved. If you’re a novice like me and in need of a little toning, there’s a squash-specific fitness class which runs every Thursday at 7.20pm, and a club night on Saturday and Sunday (racketball only) at 4.20pm. All are open to non-members, and the best part is that the first three sessions are free for newcomers. Rackets and balls are provided as well. Call Neil Hoskin on 01733 262202 to discuss membership and the free trials.

Spa Of The World™ Polynesian Monoï Radiance Oil £18 from the Body Shop, Queensgate A hair oil that will leave your hair looking and feeling radiant.

Apparently, it’s been used by the women of the Pacific Islands for over 2,000 years for luscious, glowing skin and hair. Great if your hair is in need of luxury.

Join Havoc 5k for kidney researcH Fancy causing some havoc and raising funds for Kidney Research UK? A new 5K obstacle event is taking place on Sunday May 19 at Stanground Sports Centre. Peterborough based Kidney Research UK has the 11.30am wave and have 50 places to fill.

Course Havoc has over 15 obstacles including slip & slide, Sumo wrestlers, hay bales and scaffolding obstacles. There will also be live music, entertainment, food and drink throughout the day.

It sounds great fun, would be a good

36 www.espmag.co.uk

opportunity to improve your own fitness and of course to help Kidney Research UK in their fight against kidney disease by fundraising for them.

It is £25 (16+) or £15 (6-15) and you can enter on www.coursehavoc.co.uk.

PeT THeraPy National Pet Month is celebrated in April, giving us time to think about all the great things pets can bring to our lives.

It’s not often that we consider how much having a pet can have great health benefits for your family. Whether it’s keeping you fit, helping to boost your immune system or lowering stress and anxiety after a bad day. A great time to celebrate our lovely pets in April by spoiling them (even more than usual).

Here’s a picture of Minnie, my cat who’s reached an impressive 17 years-old this year.

Why not tweet us your pics too @espmagzine?

NEW GROUP OPENING ON 22nd APRIL

Netherton St Andrews URC, Ledbury Road – 9.30 am Call Sammie on 07494 872585

NEW CONSULTANT FROM 22nd APRIL

The Millennium Centre Dickens Street, Peterborough – 5.30pm & 7.30pm Call Holly on 07944 906969

If you want to lose weight and NEVER go hungry, visit www.slimmingworld.co.uk for details of all groups in the area And don’t forget to check out our Slimming World in Peterborough Facebook page for the latest updates

Karen Devine’s

Well

karen.devine@espmag.co.uk

Being

How to Stress Less Stress plays a key role in our health and wellbeing. April has been known for decades now as the stress focused month to help increase public awareness of the effects it has on our everyday lives.

It’s often seen as more of an issue with modern living as if it didn’t exist before, however that is not so.

We’ve been designed to deal with stress as our body does have coping mechanisms inbuilt to help us through stressful times.

Chemicals are released to signal ‘fight or flight’ to get away from the external stressor.

There can be more of an emotional disturbance with stress such as...

However, this mechanism can be switched constantly which feels as if it’s stuck in fight or flight mode and that can wreak havoc on the body, mind and spirit. Stress can occur from a shock or stressful event that was external or it comes from the internal such as toxins, internal thoughts etc that we have with ourselves, constant worry, fear of lack or loss which hasn’t happened. In time the stress response becomes corrosive and affects us in many ways.

Feeling over anxious… and much more

There are many various signs of stress, from the physical...

Tension held in the body, tight muscles, clenched fists, jaw tension etc Headaches/migraines Sweating/clammy skin Chest tightness and pain Not recovering well from too frequent colds/infections Fatigue Sleep – not relieved by good sleep Dizziness Weight changes from gaining or losing too much Hormonal issues Gut issues – constipation or diarrhoea, indigestion 38 www.espmag.co.uk

Lack of interest /enthusiasm Increased irritability and/or more tearful Mood swings Lack of concentration, self worth and self control

When we are in this stressful state we may find that we crave sugar and refined carbs, more alcohol, smoke more, gamble, take drugs, lose interest in things we used to enjoy, are unable to relax or become overly busy to block out feelings.

The way we live our lives today is very fast paced with constant stimulation on the nervous system and listening to stories constantly being fed by our media that are dark and gloomy. We have less connection to ourselves and the environment we live in.

We have become the human hamster on a wheel that never stops, but stop or slow down it must in order to step off the fight or flight response, or at least have the tools to help. Too much stress is a robber of nutrients, enjoyment of life, and vitality.

Depending on your level of stress will depend on how you can deal with it, there are stress management courses that can really help, your GP can also help guide you to therapies that may suit you and your needs best such as counselling, acupuncture or other therapies – we all need to get to

know our individual warning signs and triggers so we can best deal with them before they take control.

Here are some tips for self-management...

Get outdoors each day, even if it means sitting in your own garden for 10mins. If you can do more, then get walking, running or power walking. Being in nature naturally lowers your stress hormone cortisol as well as blood pressure. So even if you don’t exercise outdoors just get out there and immerse in it for a while each day.

Turn off your techno gadgets for 1 hour per day, phone, laptop, computer, TV and spend that hour doing something relaxing such as reading, listening to sound healing, being creative, journaling, listening to personal development online/CDs. Stretch – or find a yoga/pilates class, it releases the tension in your muscles, aligns your mind, body and spirit.

Exercise – depending on your level of energy find a plan to suit you. If you are someone who really does not sleep well at night and find exercising later in the evening makes it worse then don’t stop the exercise, change the time you do it to earlier in the day. Exercise can take many forms – dancing, swimming, yoga, gym classes, weights, power walking – whatever gets the heart pumping and blood flowing will help.

Eating your emotions down serves no one. So those sugars, refined carbs, fizzy drinks, alcohol gives the tiny lift but drops you down further after a few hours. Start to limit them, hydrate with water, juices, smoothies and fruit. If you’re finding that eating healthy starts off good but then you turn into the refined food junky later in the day, then maybe supplement with some B vitamins, Vitamin C, and some

Magnesium initially which may help to lessen the cravings.

Say no more often than yes if you know it’s going to compromise you or your energy.

Stop the blame game – nothing keeps us locked down in our lives than pointing the finger of blame on events that have happened. Deal with them for sure, but moving forward in our lives requires a new positive way of thinking to help empower us.

What works for some may not work for you. I know when I am stressed or pushing towards that edgy feeling here is what I personally do...

•

Switch off all my techno gadgets and listen to sound therapy (nature sound etc). I don’t engage in the TV, social media, radio etc.

•

I get out in nature and walk

•

I write down everything that has a deadline and prioritise

•

I roll out my yoga mat and stretch, particularly the hamstrings as that relieves such a lot of built up tension

•

I head to bed about 9pm, read something uplifting (a physical book not Kindle).

•

I meditate

•

I ensure that I’m hydrated – dehydration can cause cravings or we constantly look for food and never give the digestion a rest

•

I have a massage

These may sound like small steps but together they can really help me to stay on track.

‘It’s not stress that kills, it’s our reaction to it’ – Hans Selye In health, Karen www.karendevine.co.uk

darren.grigas@espmag.co.uk

The Anytime

Fitanlleensgse

Photos: Emma Bothamley

Ch

A

n all too common reason for not keeping on top of our health and fitness is the lack of time. We all have very busy lives, and often, squeezing in a few runs or gym sessions isn’t all that easy. Then when you get to the gym, knowing what to do can be a guessing game for many. However, the right gym, with the right support could be all it takes to help fast track your fitness goals.

I visited Anytime Fitness in Orton Centre, who’ve just celebrated their 1st birthday, with former World’s Strongest Man Geoff Capes celebrating with them.

In its first year it’s proven to be extremely popular, more than even they had expected. The gym’s 24-hour access has been a big draw for locals, some state-ofthe-art equipment and very competitive membership rates make it easy to see why they’ve had such a great year.

The Anytime Fitness team know I can’t resist a challenge, and whilst my usual challenges involve running across deserts and jungles, they had something ‘special’ lined up for me.

40 www.espmag.co.uk

Sure enough, they’d devised a brutal leg session for me to go through, in a head-to-head ‘Grigas vs Fletcher’ beasting.

I was up against gym manager Tom Fletcher, who laughed anxiously as he knew what we were about to endure at the mercy (yeah right) of Personal Trainer Ruby Parvez.

Whilst I may do a lot of running, that works the legs quite differently to the demands of lifting weights which isn’t something I do too much of and I was about to find out just how much more I should have done.

After a warm-up on one of the running machines, we got cracking, with some leg extensions to ease into the session, and then over to the squat rack.

Damn it, squats are those things I always intend to do more of but now was the moment I felt a little unprepared. We loaded up the weights and went for ten reps. Done, that wasn’t so bad right? Okay, “just repeat that nine more times,” instructed Ruby. Whaaaat?! So, Tom and I alternated, 10 sets of 10 reps. Tom held strong and was making it look easy, a little too easy, I’m not one to give up and pushed on through.

Then straight to the seated leg press, loaded with even more weight, ready for 100 reps. Say again? 100 as in ONE HUNDRED REPETITIONS?! I’ve endured 36hour drills from the SAS and this young lady was up there as mean as those guys, don’t be fooled by her sweet innocent face. My face however was now sweating and colouring up, this was a real

challenge, it was hard work, but eventually both Tom and I got through it, but it wasn’t quite over yet.

We waddled over on our jelly legs to the Torque Tank, a four-wheeled trailer, loaded with heavy weights, resistance gears and a battle rope at one end. We had some work to do yet before finally reaching the end of the challenge, our smiles turned to grimaces and grunts as we pushed and pulled the tank across the room, endured countless burpees and sprints until we were finally done.

It was a brutal but brilliant challenge, we each gave our all. The equipment and atmosphere in the gym is fantastic, and there’s a nice fun and friendly feel about the place. I have every confidence that Tom and the team are going to have an even better second year as this gym is certainly a great addition to the community and is well worth a visit.

Proudly sponsored by

THE

POSH PAGE

Tel: 01733 380657 www.studio-one.co

ESP’s columnist Phil Adlam brings us the exclusives on all things Peterborough United…

Photos: Joe Dent / www.theposh.com

Investing in Youth

When I first joined Peterborough United, the Academy system was heralded as one of the best in the country. It was heavily invested in and it reaped the rewards with players like Adam Drury, Matthew Etherington, Simon Davies and many more going on to play regular first team football higher up the pyramid.

In March, co-owner Jason Neale revealed exciting plans to help develop the current Academy which runs teams from under 9s through to under 18s (with a pre-Academy at under 7s). The football club will triple its investment, hire more coaches and develop those already within the system.

Not only that, but from under 9s through to 12s, they will double the intake of players into the system to help develop that fledgling potential and also create a pathway for under 18s to experience first team football under a professional contract at lower league clubs.

Football is often guilty of releasing youngsters at 18 stating they are not ready to progress,

but this new pathway keeps them connected to the football club while we assess their development elsewhere. Not only that, but Mr Neale wants to see three Academy graduates in the first team squad by 2024.

“We will now have a very well-funded Academy and four years from 2024 we would either have a whole team of graduates or we would have sold some on and generated our playing budget that way. It’s something I strongly believe in.

“By the year 2024 if our first-team manager has 24 players in his squad, three will be Academy graduates. We will also improve the pathway to the first team for 18 year-olds. If we have

players who are just short of the required standard we will sign them as professionals, but immediately loan them out to lower division clubs for them to gain experience.

“I would hope the guarantee of three players getting a professional contract would inspire the youngsters to push hard. They would know of the infrastructure and the guarantee and you never know we might start getting a few more players coming through before 2024.”

When this story was released into the media, it was met by the usual moaners on social media, but where is the negative? All football clubs want a thriving Academy. It can be a money spinner but it can also help that connect between the players and the supporters.

It also demonstrated the long-term ambition of the owners and the long-term goal of the football club. Our marketing strategy has been #AUnitedCity and we are working extremely hard with initiatives and commitments to make those words become a reality, but in my opinion, there needs to be more support for initiatives and schemes like these. There shouldn’t be a negative from an announcement like this.

Phil Adlam

Commercial, food and product photography, business portraits, press and PR

5 Station Road, Ailsworth, Peterborough, PE5 7AH

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Home cooked food live music and much more 6 The Green, Werrington, PE4 6RU /bluebellpe4

The ESP Comedy Guide

sarah.slack@espmag.co.uk

ESP Interviews Fringe Favourite Jay Foreman Ahead of performing his critically acclaimed children’s show Disgusting Songs for Revolting Children at the Stamford Arts Centre, this month I spoke to comedian Jay Foreman about his YouTube channel, his love of Roald Dahl and what to expect from his latest show.

Many thanks for taking the time out to chat to ESP – can you tell us a bit about what your show Disgusting Songs for Revolting Children is all about?

“My pleasure! Disgusting Songs For Revolting Children is an hour of me and my guitar playing my silliest and most gruesome songs. I usually play at comedy clubs up and down the country, but lots of my songs are frankly too horrible for grown ups.

There are songs about falling into a sewer, a car that runs on caterpillar sick, and what happens if you don’t brush your teeth for a year.”

I imagine performing to children presents itself with a fair amount of challenges!

“There’s lots of audience participation in my show. At a normal comedy club, if I ask someone to join me on stage, the whole room goes quiet and avoids looking at me. But at my kids’ show, I ask the same question and the whole audience screams “ME! ME! ME!” It can be tough to know who to pick, as I’ve only got a few seconds to work out who’s going to cause the most mischief!”

Sarah Slack brings us the ESP guide to where the laughs are at this month…

What is the most disgusting song in the show, and what was the inspiration behind it?

“The disgustingest song is probably the one called Skin Sofa. It’s the one that usually gets the whole crowd shouting “eeuuurgh!” after every single line. But I’m happy to say that this one wasn’t my revolting idea – it was my sister’s. She thought it up, and I turned it into a song.”

Prior to performing smash hit kids shows, you also performed at the Edinburgh Fringe and appeared at the Musical Comedy Awards Showcase. Was there anything in particular which motivated you to create shows for a younger audience?

“For a long time I did regular adult shows at the Edinburgh Fringe. One year, my show happened to be in the Pleasance Green, a venue which during the daytime is used for kids’ entertainment. Lots of parents told me it’d make a great kids’ show if I simply took the swearing out. I thought “Ooh! That’s a good idea!”

And so, the next year, I came back to the Fringe with Disgusting Songs for Revolting Children, and it became the most fun (and best-selling) show I’d ever done. Now I’m taking it round the country.”

Who are your own comedy/musical inspirations?

“I’m an enormous fan of Roald Dahl.

I love his books now as much as I did when I was a kid. He has a wonderful gift for making children and grown ups giggle at the same gags. His books of poems Revolting Rhymes and Dirty Beasts were especially inspiring to me. Musically, I’m a huge Beatles geek, and lots of people tell me my melodies sound a bit Beatley.“

New Comedy Club Debuts in Woodston Four up and coming acts on the UK comedy circuit will be performing at the South Grove Community Centre in Woodston on Friday April 5, including a 2019 New Act of The Year runner-up.

This brand new comedy night entitled Live From South Grove promises to be a night filled with laughs as Carl Jones, as heard on BBC Radio 4, will be the MC for the evening. Joining 44 www.espmag.co.uk

him will be fringe favourite Katharine Ferns, Scotsman David Whitney and Eamon Goodfellow, who recently came runner-up at the coveted New Act of The Year Awards 2019.

Doors open at 7.30pm, and tickets for the show are available online from WeGotTickets.com. For more information email agcomedynights@gmail.com or call 07546 947732.

As well as touring across the UK you’re also known for your Unfinished London videos on YouTube, along with Map Men and your Politics Unhinged series. As someone with a strong viral presence how important do you think YouTube is as a platform for promoting up and coming UK comedians?

“YouTube is a fantastic tool, and it’s currently the best way for someone who’s just starting out in comedy, or music, or indeed anything, to get their stuff out there. Lots of comedians nowadays are abandoning the traditional Edinburgh Fringe route, and using YouTube to propel themselves into the mainstream. Indeed, it’s now possible to put your entire output on YouTube to become a household name without ever having to set foot in Edinburgh, a TV studio, or even outside your house. The youngest comedians I meet don’t want to be on TV anymore, they want to be YouTubers.”

After your tour finishes are there any other projects you’ll be working on?

“I’ll be posting my latest videos on my YouTube channel, where I put silly educational videos about geography, with lots of guest appearances from other comedians.

And keep an eye on my Twitter @jayforeman and my website www.jayforeman.co.uk for updates of my upcoming gigs, both for children and massive children (grown ups).”

Jay Foreman will be performing Disgusting Songs for Revolting Children at the Stamford Arts Centre on Saturday April 6.

Tickets are available on 01780 763203.

Comedy

Gig Guide APR

10

Real ales • Live music Function/meeting room hire • Open to all ENTERTAINMENT

STEWART FRANCIS Described as “one of the funniest comedians in the world” by Craig Ferguson, this year Stewart Francis will be touring his last ever UK show, making this event at the Cresset a very hot ticket! As seen on Mock the Week and Live at the Apollo, make sure you get tickets for his Into the Punset tour before they sell out.

Tickets are available on 01733 265705.

Friday 28th March Another Girl Another Planet Saturday 29th Hooker 31st March Mothering Sunday Carvery with free bubbly and desserts for all Mums Friday 5th April Wayne Mills Disco Saturday 6th Children of the Revolution Saturday 13th The Zephyrs Friday 19th One Eyed Cats Saturday 20th Kick Back Tuesday 23rd St Georges Day Celebration details below Friday 26th Black Elvis Saturday 27th The Agents (All bands start at 9pm)

APR

10

APR

25

APR

26

APR

26

KIERAN HODGSON Described by the Times as ‘ravishingly entertaining, informative, full of insight and plenty of laughs’, this is a chance to see a fantastic Fringe show right on your doorstep at the Key Theatre. Kieran Hodgson achieved another Best Show nomination at the Edinburgh Comedy Awards last year for this epic and surprising tale of how Britain joined Europe in the first place, making it an absolute must-see for comedy fans and those who love their political satire.

Tickets are available on 01733 207239.

We are now able to offer an Outside Bar & Event Catering Service. Please call for more details.

ST GEORGES DAY CELEBRATION with Arc Nation and True British Mayhem All day event the bands start at 6.30pm free entry Last Tuesday of every month for senior citizens we offer a 3 course lunch for just £5.00

7 Burghley Road, Peterborough PE1 2QA Tel: 01733 896989 | www.theburghleyclub.co.uk

LIGHTBOX COMEDY CLUB Performing at the popular Lightbox Café and bar this month will be the hugely successful UK improv troupe Noise Next Door, plus Brummie comic Andy White and stalwart of the comedy circuit Freddie Farrell. Tickets are available by visiting www.funhousecomedy.co.uk.

PETERBOROUGH

CRESSET COMEDY CLUB Running since 1998, the Cresset Comedy Club hosts the very best in live stand up and offers a great night out every month.

The line-up this month includes talented comedian, improviser and actor Marlon Davis, whose recent TV appearances include BBC’s Live At The Apollo and Comedy Central’s Comedy Store Live; and Josh Jones, finalist in the Chortle Student Comedy Awards 2016. Tickets are available on 01733 265705.

A PINT OF COMEDY Join the Stamford Arts Centre for their monthly comedy night in the Cellar Bar which features some of the UK’s best acts, plus you’ll receive a £1 off your first drink voucher to be used in the Cellar Bar during the night with every ticket bought.

Line-up to be confirmed. Tickets are available on 01780 763203. www.espmag.co.uk

45

Amanda and her team would like to welcome old and new guests back to The Peacock Pub

Entertainment during April

April 5th The Guards Sky Sports and BT Sports showing all games of football

Family friendly pub open at 12 midday everyday apart from Posh match days when we open at 10 am.

April 13th Mister J April 27th Third Stone From The Sun

26 London Road, Peterborough PE2 8AR /ThePeacockPeterborough

NIGHTlife

Your guide to the nighttime scene

NIGHTS OUT @ THE BREWERY TAP

CHARTERS EASTER BEER FESTIVAL Charters Annual Easter Beer Festival is back.

The festival gets started at midday on Thursday April 18 and runs until Monday April 22.

There’ll be the chance to try 20+ Real Ales, alongside the usual ciders, gins and spirits. It’s free admission and if the weather’s kind you can chill out in their huge beer garden while you work your way through the ales Thursday includes a quiz at 8pm, it’s Vinyl Night on the Friday and there’s music from the High Rollers on the Saturday at 10.30pm, and tunes from Agi Jarocka on Sunday afternoon.

It’s time to Thank Funk It’s Friday on April 5 with resident DJ Mr Nash at the Brewery Tap from 9pm – late, free entry.

That’s followed on Saturday April 6 by a cracking charity Soul night out with the Motor City Vipers and DJs Julz & Paul D. It’s on from 7pm – 1am and tickets are £10 per person, available from band members, DJ’s or the venue.

Take the mic and belt out your fave tunes on Friday April 12 at Karaoke Friday with DJ Rick Allen from 9pm – late, free entry.

Get your groove on and hit the dancefloor on Saturday April 13 at Saturday Night Groove with Resident DJ Rick Allen playing a great selection of danceable hits from the 70s to the present day accompanied with videos on the large screen. It’s on from 9pm – late and is free entry.

There’s more fantastic live music on Thursday April 18 with Diggin for Diamonds a new UK Soul band made up of some of East Anglia’s finest musicians. The band concentrates on the rarer side of Soul Funk & Disco.

DJ Julian Roberts is on the decks from 8pm, band from 10pm – free entry.

End the month with The Get Down with resident DJ Mr Nash on Saturday April 27 from 9pm – late, free entry.

PRINCE NIGHT NIGHTS OUT @ THE LIGHTBOX CAFÉ By night this Bridge Street café turns to evening venue and on Friday April 5 the guys from Periodic will be on the decks to play out melodic house music guaranteed to make you feel good.

Every Saturday Eclectic Ballroom take over and bring you the dirtiest Soul Funk & Disco you’ve ever heard with special guest Toy Beats on Saturday April 20.

There’s live stand up on Thursday April 25 with Funhouse Comedy featuring Andy White, The Noise Next Door, Freddie Farrell and compere Stevie Gray. Tickets are £10.

Friday April 26 it’s Loaded, the 90's reunion night that everyone is talking about and the month rounds off on Saturday April 27 with Icons of Gay Disco – Be Loud, Be Proud and Get Down!

46 www.espmag.co.uk

Celebrate the music of His Royal Badness, Prince, with DJs Uncle Funk and Mister Wicketer at the Brewery Tap on Sunday April 21. Dress funky and get a free shot for wearing anything purple – plus there’s a meal for 2 prize for the best dressed. Entry’s £3 on the door. Over 18s only.

BINGO ON THE BOAT @ CHARTERS Time to yell ‘house’ and get your ‘dabber’ at the ready for a couple of games of fun free to enter bingo at Charters on Saturday April 28. The first game is at 6.30pm and the second game at 8pm, it’s free to enter and all participants must be 18 years of age or over.

It’s one game card per customer per game, with a liquid prize for a winning line and then the full house.

L’ARISTOS REUNION Join host and resident DJ Mr Nash at the Brewery Tap on Saturday April 20, with special guest DJ’s Otis Roberts & Steve Walsh as they take you on a trip down memory lane to nights out at Peterborough nightclub L’Aristo’s. You can expect to hear tunes you danced to at the Fengate club back in the day including classic funk, soul, rare groove, R & B, house, swing and soul. Entry on the door is £5 from 7pm with all proceeds to Sue Ryder Thorpe Hall Hospice.

VINYL NIGHT Vinyl Night is held monthly on the third Friday of the month so head down to Charters on Friday April 19. Spinning your vinyl and a selection of his own is resident DJ Derek Gibson. Derek will be on board playing indie, new wave, punk, glam rock, 60s, 70s, 80s, 90s, 00s. It’s on from 8pm – late with free entry, it’s not a disco but all dancing welcome!

TOY BEATS @ THE LIGHTBOX CAFÉ Every Saturday Eclectic Ballroom take over the The Lightbox Café but regularly bring us some extra special guests.

This month on Saturday April 20 it’s Toy Beats. This DJ/Producer rose from the dust of the 90's Free Party and Rave scene. Toy Beats has seen and played it all. Starting his DJ career at 17 years of age playing to crowds of party people in quarries, forests and disused airfields. In more recent years he's picked up residencies at Rough Trade, After Dark and Green Meadows Festival. Now producing his own material in 2017, with remixes and releases on the likes of Scour Records and Breakbeat Paradise Recordings. Toy Beats is now also one of the two members of the funky upcoming production duo Double Bubble.

Blue Bell Inn DOGSTHORPE One of Peterborough oldest Pubs we offer a warm welcome in lovely surroundings.

APRIL GIGS 6th 13th 20th 22nd

Mother’s Day 31st March bookings recommended

27th

Tiger Club The Sidekicks Caustic Lights Easter Monday Kids Easter egg hunt 2pm start free to enter.

Mullered at the Mill

MAYGIGS 4th

The Deps

Blue Bell Inn, Welland Road, Dogsthorpe, Peterborough PE1 3SA

Tel 01733 313700

keith.dalton@espmag.co.uk

Keith Dalton has the ESP guide to the best news and views from the local live music scene…

New Single from Irene Rae

The Mighty and the High A newly formed band are to perform a charity gig at The Limetree Pub on Paston Lane.

It takes place on Saturday April 27 and features The Mighty and The High who are a three-piece made up of some familiar faces from the local music scene – John Quinn (vocals and guitar), Lou Speed (bass guitar) and Paul Blant on drums and backing vocals.

Regular live music goers locally will recognise the guys from their previous bands which included The Mighty Quinn and The Fleeting Minds.

The gig celebrates the ‘Back To Basics Scooter Club’ start of season charity night and every year the Club chooses a charity to be beneficiaries of their evening. So, although entry will be free, there will be collection buckets on hand and all cash donations will go towards their chosen charity for 2019, CHUMS, which offers support in mental health, wellbeing and bereavement services for children.

Paul, Lou and John formed The Mighty and The High this year after meeting up socially for the New Year, and Paul explained – “We played together a lot over the years and we decided that just lately we don’t see enough of each other. So we thought getting out there and playing songs we love would be a great idea and at the same time would mean it would be a way of seeing more of each other.”

Their set is a mixture of songs spanning the decades from 60’s to 90’s so will include Indie and Britpop and feature classics from bands including The Who, Beatles, Kinks, Faces, Jam, Oasis, Stone Roses, Coral and The Smiths.

It will be great to see these three back together and the gig at The Limetree will give you a chance to see only their second appearance.

After the fundraiser gig The Mighty and The High are booked for the Yard of Ale in Woodston on May 3 and the Post Office Club on May 25.

48 www.espmag.co.uk

Local singer Irene Rae is receiving accolades for her latest single No Never which is the first single from her forthcoming album The Light Game due for release in July this year. It’s a high octane ballad and is written about Irene's experiences with the industry and how people can take advantage of you, highlighted by the prominent #metoo movement.

The Light Game is the first full band album

by Irene featuring ten songs that showcase her delicate, yet powerful voice combined with raw

and honest songwriting. The record was conceived from a determination to capture the essence and intimacy of her live shows.

Irene’s toured the UK as a solo artist with three EPs and a solo album under her belt and more recently accompanied by her band, who feature on the 2015 EP Hidden Secret. She was touted as ‘one to watch’ during the tour of Hidden Secret with a four-star rating and reviews such as a ‘strong voice and sophisticated song writing’ from R2R Magazine. Some memorable moments include playing support to Midge Ure, Hazel O'Connor, John Power, The Levellers (acoustic), Owen Paul and Declan Bennett.

If you’re a fan look out for her tour dates when she will launch The Light Game with her band at local venues including The Stahl Theatre in Oundle, The Stamford Arts Centre and many around the country including The Cavern.

No Never is available on iTunes and Spotify and on www.irenerae.com. www.youtube.comirenerae www.facebook.com/ireneraemusic

Fri 5th April – Acoustic Night (with Rob Bull, Jimmy Doherty, Adam Leon & Glove Compartment)

ELO Tribute The popularity of Jeff Lynne & The Electric Light Orchestra barely needs any explanation – suffice to say that between 1972 and 1986 they achieved more combined UK and US Top 40 hits than any other band on the planet. Again a few years ago they wowed the audience with a magical comeback on the Legends stage at Glastonbury and at Hyde Park. Blending rock rhythms with classical influences, ELO also released many classic albums as they became one of the most important and influential bands ever. Stamford Corn Exchange is presenting one of the best tributes to ELO on Saturday April 27. The ELO Experience has been instrumental in keeping the music of Jeff Lynne and The Electric Light Orchestra alive and live in the UK, taking the show around the country to over a quarter of a million people in that time. This is the ultimate tribute to ELO and features all the hits from the iconic band. Songs like 10538 Overture, Evil Woman, Living Thing, Diary of Horace Wimp, Don't Bring Me Down and of course Mr Blue Sky which went on to become one of the soundtracks of our lives.

Tickets for The ELO Experience at Stamford Corn Exchange, are available from the box office on 01780 766455.

Sat 6th April – Third Stone from the Sun Sat 13th April – The Nuggets Easter Weekend Fri 19th April – Dirty Rumour Sat 20th April – Revolver Sun 21st April – Easter Karaoke Fri 26th April – The Zephyrs Sat 27th April – Iron Fist

Staniland Way Werrington 01733 327696

Cubans and Cognac A new release from local band Cubans and Cognac is due on April 13.

The single Wake Me Up is the band’s first release and is available now for preorder on Amazon and iTunes. Since their formation in late 2016, the band’s been attracting bookings from many local venues and so the single has been long awaited by their many followers.

The line-up is Rob Trevor (lead vocals) Dan Nufrio (guitar an backing vocals) with bassist Jack Parkinson and Toby Bass (drums and backing vocals).

They play their own style of rock, taking inspiration from bands such as Feeder, Jimmy Eat World, Kings of Leon, Green Day, Blink-182 and Biffy Clyro. along with performing the regular crowd pleasers ranging from The Beatles to top ten hits such as Shawn Mendes and Ed Sheeran.

As with so many local musicians their history brings up some great band names from the past on the local scene: Dan and Toby met at Peteborough Regional College in 2010 and went on to form past local covers and original bands The 707 and Skyfight. Dan had previously worked with Rob (former New Generation Crash & Burn singer) on a small acoustic project all the way back in 2013. The band then auditioned for a bass player where Jack came shining through!

You’ll be able to see Cubans and Cognac playing local festivals in the summer such as Langtoft and Parsons Drove in addition to them continuing to be very busy on the local pub scene.

If you want to sample the single follow the link www.cubansandcognac.wordpress.com. You can also purchase the single there.

Illegal Eagles I’ve had the pleasure of seeing the Illegal Eagles a couple of times during their regular visits to Peterborough, and I’ve been mightily impressed.

The band returns to The Cresset on Friday April 19 for their annual visit to the city. The show celebrates the music of the legendary US west coast country rock band including their classics Hotel California, Desperado, Take It Easy, New Kid In Town and Life In The Fast Lane.

The visit is part of an 87 date UK tour and that many dates shows that their quality attracts large audiences wherever they go. This is partly due to the music of the Eagles and the nostalgia associated with it. However the musicianship is far beyond any normal tribute band. The multiple guitar sound that they create is of the highest quality and the voices blend superbly.

The Illegal Eagles bring their trademark musical prowess, acute attention to detail and incredible showmanship to every performance.

Tickets will go fast so you can get yours from the Cresset box office on 01733 265705 or visit www.cresset.co.uk.

Photos: Aidan Reid Photography

Proudly sponsored by

Tori Lamour Live @ The Met Lounge From growing up in the Peterborough area Tori Lamour has established a growing fanbase, playing local festivals with Metallica inspired rock and by touring around the UK. More nationwide tour dates will soon be announced but you can catch the band live at The Met Lounge, Peterborough on Friday May 3.

The gig will highlight their forthcoming album Forged by Fire. This is their second album and will be released on April 8. The band have also released their first music video from the new album, Run Until You Fall, and it’s available on YouTube.

We managed to catch up with Tori while she was in Peterborough working on the album and asked where the album title came from.

"We decided that we would go for a name that summed up the last few years rather than just the theme of the album,” said Tori. “It’s not been an easy journey.

We've had many members come and go, many trials and personal problems to deal with but have always believed if we were patient the right people would come along (out of the fire). I now have a fantastic band and we are all on the same page which is so important. The fact that everybody is pulling in the same direction is awesome.

“I’ve worked with musician/producer Andy Nicholls on the first album and guitarist Matti Acraman’s been writing with me for over 3 years now. Our second lead guitarist Dan Vassell we headhunted on Facebook, YouTube, etc. We loved his playing style and songwriting and thought he was perfect for what we needed. We offered him the job and he took it.

“The final slot was filled by Reece Murdoch our new rock solid bass player. Reece was one of the first bass players to apply for the job but some how we missed his email. We auditioned 18 bass players and none worked out. Eventually we stumbled across the email and the perfect bass player was sitting there all the time.

“I’m so happy with the band and look at them as my brothers. I really can’t wait to tour with them now. We've also just been approached by a promoter from LA so a USA tour is looking more and more likely now too."

To see Tori Lamour locally with full support at The Met Lounge call the box office for tickets on 01733 566100 or it’s £6 on the door.

The band have already started putting together tours in the UK and Europe and songs for a third album so we will be seeing much more of them.

If you like Rock, Melodic Metal, Evanescence, Nightwish, etc, you might want to look them up – Twitter @torilamour, enquiries: torilamourband@gmail.com. www.espmag.co.uk

49

GIGGUIDE WED MAR 27 BACKROOM ACOUSTIC WITH THE BOATMEN The Angel Inn, Ramsey

SAT MAR 30 ABBEY ROAD The Parkway Club, Maskew Avenue

COUNTRY MIX The Pizza Parlour & Music Cafe, Cowgate

CLARKSDALE CONTRACT

OPEN MIC NIGHT

Charters, Town Bridge

MON APR 1

THE GUARDS

JIMMY DOHERTY

WHISKEY TWIST

The Pizza Parlour & Music Cafe, Cowgate

The Blue Bell, Werrington

OPEN MIC WITH STACY LOUTH

SAT APR 6

The Blue Bell, Werrington

ANOTHER GIRL ANOTHER PLANET

TUE APR 2

The Peacock, London Road

The Yard of Ale, Oundle Road

CAUSTIC LIGHTS

ACOUSTIC NIGHT WITH GRAHAM CLEAVER

HIGH ROLLERS

The Millstone, Barnack

THU MAR 28

The Ploughman, Werrington

CHILDREN OF THE REVOLUTION

OPEN MIC WITH ANNA RADFORD

The Burghley, Burghley Road

ANOTHER GIRL ANOTHER PLANET

IAN GRAHAM & KAT MOORE

The Pizza Parlour & Music Cafe, Cowgate

DIVISION

The Burghley, Burghley Road

The Yard of Ale, Oundle Road

VOODOO ACOUSTIC

OPEN MIC NIGHT

JUNK PUPPETS

The Blue Boar, Eye

The Blue Bell, Dogsthorpe

FOREVER 80S

OPEN MIC WITH THE INTERIM ROOM

OUTLAW EAGLES

SAMM's, Bridge Street

The Crown, Lincoln Road

Mama Liz's, Stamford

WED APR 3 OPEN MIC NIGHT The Met Lounge, Bridge Street

POINT BLANK

The Pizza Parlour & Music Cafe, Cowgate

Ebeneezers, Woodston

THU APR 4

RAMSHACKLE SERENADE

MOLLY'S CHAMBER

THE MIGHTY AND THE HIGH The Crown, Lincoln Road

Social Club, Kings Cliffe

TAKE COVER The Peacock, London Road

FRI MAR 29 ACOUSTIC SESSIONS WITH THE BOATMEN

THE MOONDOGS (TICKETED) Springfields Events Centre, Spalding

The Yard of Ale, Oundle Road

OPEN MIC WITH THE INTERIM ROOM SAMM's, Bridge Street

PETERBOROUGH BIG BAND The Tap Room, The Brewery Tap

THE NUGGETS

SARAH COLLINS

The Boat Inn, Whittlesey

The London Inn, Stamford

The Pizza Parlour & Music Cafe, Cowgate

CHILDREN OF THE REVOLUTION

THE OUTLAW EAGLES

The Ploughman, Werrington

The Crown, Lincoln Road

DIRTY RUMOUR

VOODOO ACOUSTIC WITH DAVE B

DUSK TILL DAWN

SUN MAR 31

ACOUSTIC NIGHT ROB BULL + GLOVE COMPARTMENT + ADAM LEON + JAMES DOHERTY

The Crown, Lincoln Road

The Ploughman, Werrington

ANOTHER GIRL ANOTHER PLANET

MON APR 8 The Pizza Parlour & Music Cafe, Cowgate

SONGWRITERS EVENING WITH STEVE GIBBS The Boat Inn, Whittlesey

TUE APR 9 OPEN MIC WITH ANNA RADFORD The Pizza Parlour & Music Cafe, Cowgate

LAST MINUTE BRIGADE Fletton Club, High Street The Pizza Parlour & Music Cafe, Cowgate

LIVE MUSIC

WED APR 10 BACKROOM ACOUSTIC

PHOENIX

OPEN MIC NIGHT

The Parkway Club, Maskew Avenue

The Met Lounge, Bridge Street

The Brewery Tap, Westgate

SAMM's, Bridge Street

SARAH COLLINS The Pizza Parlour & Music Cafe, Cowgate

THIRD STONE FROM THE SUN

FRI APR 12

The Ploughman, Werrington

ACOUSTIC NIGHT DAVE SMITH + ROB BULL + GLOVE COMPARTMENT + JAMES DOHERTY

TIGER CLUB

The British Arms, Irthlingborough

Bob's Records, Whittlesey

PEMBROKE TENNESON (3PM)

JON RYAN

TALLAWAH

Charters, Town Bridge

LEE JOSHUA ROSE The Fayre Spot, Bretton

SIXTH AVENUE

RETROLUX

The Met Lounge, Bridge Street

The Pizza Parlour & Music Cafe, Cowgate

The Yard of Ale, Oundle Road

50 www.espmag.co.uk

MISTER J

Lakeside Bar, Tallington

The Nelson's Head, St Ives

THE QUIREBOYS + REBECCA DOWNES

SAMM's, Bridge Street

THE EXTONES

The New Crown, Whittlesey

The Crown, Lincoln Road

LIVE MUSIC

ROCKET '57

The Pizza Parlour & Music Cafe, Cowgate

The Pizza Parlour & Music Cafe, Cowgate

The Pizza Parlour & Music Cafe, Cowgate

OPEN MIC WITH THE INTERIM ROOM

DIVISION

The Parkway Club, Maskew Avenue

JUNK PUPPETS

The Bull, Newborough

HUSH

PHILIP RANDLES

Fletton Club, High Street

The New Crown, Whittlesey

HUSH

THE MONEY SHOT

FILTHY CONTACT

OPEN MIC NIGHT

SUN APR 7

LATE NIGHT JAZZ

The Nag's Head, Bourne

STEALER

The Yard of Ale, Oundle Road

The Blue Bell, Werrington

CAP'N RASTY AND THE BIG TIME CHARLIES

Social Club, Kings Cliffe

The Glasshouse, Key Theatre

Ebeneezers, Woodston

The Yard of Ale, Oundle Road

The Peacock, London Road

HOOKER

ROCKET '57 (7.30PM)

BLACKSTAR REVOLUTION

THU APR 11

ACOUSTIC NIGHT ORIGINAL TUNES

The Burghley, Burghley Road

The Parkway Club, Maskew Avenue

LATE NIGHT JAZZ

The Pizza Parlour & Music Cafe, Cowgate

The Blue Bell, Dogsthorpe

The Crown, Lincoln Road

COSMIC RODNEY

BILLY G AND THE HEART BEATS

The Ostrich, North Street

SAMM's, Bridge Street

RAMSHACKLE SERENADE

SAT APR 13

MICHAEL CRAWFORD DUO

The Solstice, Northminster

HIGH ROLLERS

THE SMARTIES

The Angel Inn, Ramsey

CAMISAYO + OAKLEAS RISE + GRAHAM CLEAVER (2PM)

Mama Liz's, Stamford

The Yard of Ale, Oundle Road

GEMMA MCDOWELL

Charters, Town Bridge

THE MOTOR CITY VIPERS (TICKETED)

FRI APR 5

CALUDE DOMINO + ROCKET 57 (2PM)

ICE CREAM HEADACHE + POLYPIN

The Prince of Wales Feathers, Castor

SAMM'S, Bridge Street

GRAVES + BURNING CODES + TEN YEARS DEAD + PETROL BOYS

The Beehive, Bourges Boulevard

Mama Liz's, Stamford

THIRD STONE FROM THE SUN

The Yard of Ale, Oundle Road

The London Inn, Stamford

The Crown, Lincoln Road

LATE NIGHT JAZZ

SARAH COLLINS

The Parkway Club, Maskew Avenue

The Crown, Lincoln Road

Ebeneezers, Woodston

The Met Lounge, Bridge Street

THE MACHINES SAM MAXWELL

JAMES EDMONDS (3PM) The Frothblowers, Werrington

OAKHAM MIC NIGHT The Brewery Tap, Westgate

The New Crown, Whittlesey

REVOLVER The Deeping Stage, Market Deeping

THE EXPLETIVES Charters, Town Bridge

THE NUGGETS The Ploughman, Werrington

THE OVERDUBS The Crown, Lincoln Road

THE SIDEKICKS The Blue Bell, Dogsthorpe

THE ZEPHYRS The Burghley, Burghley Road

FOLK NIGHT

SUN APR 14

The Falcon, Whittlesey

KEITH LUCKEY (3PM)

LATE NIGHT JAZZ

Charters, Town Bridge

The Pizza Parlour & Music Cafe, Cowgate

MATTHEW BANKHURST

LOOSE ROCKET

The Pizza Parlour & Music Cafe, Cowgate

The Masons Arms, Bourne

PALMY UKE BAND

ROCK OUT

Charters, Town Bridge

The Blue Bell, Werrington

THE THRILLBILLIES

PENNYLESS (4PM)

THE GUARDS

The Parkway Club, Maskew Avenue

Mama Liz's, Stamford

The Solstice, Northminster

If you want to get your gigs in ESP for free, e-mail:

GIGS@ESPMAG.CO.UK MON APR 15

SAT APR 20

HAYLEY DI RITO The Pizza Parlour & Music Cafe, Cowgate

AGI JAROCKA (3PM) Charters, Town Bridge

CAUSTIC LIGHTS The Blue Bell, Dogsthorpe

TUE APR 16 OPEN MIC NIGHT The Boat Inn, Whittlesey

OPEN MIC WITH BON The Pizza Parlour & Music Cafe, Cowgate

SUN APR 21

CHILDREN OF THE REVOLUTION The London Inn, Stamford

DIRTY RUMOUR

DIRTY RUMOUR The Grainstore, Oakham

JESS DAVIS + THE BOATMEN + THE SETTLERS The Glasshouse, Key Theatre

Social Club, Kings Cliffe

JIMMY & RUSS

THU APR 25

SAT APR 27

OPEN MIC NIGHT

CHILDREN OF THE REVOLUTION

The Blue Boar, Eye

SARAH COLLINS

DIRTY RUMOUR

The Pizza Parlour & Music Cafe, Cowgate

The Angel, South Witham

THE MORPHICS + FYZZ WALLIS

The Yard of Ale, Oundle Road

The Crown, Lincoln Road

HUSH

HALF PRICE DRINKS

WED APR 17

The Crown, Lincoln Road

THE NUGGETS

HIGH ROLLERS

Fletton Club, High Street

BLACK ELVIS

PAGAN

Charters, Town Bridge

THE ZEPHYRS

HUSH

The Yard of Ale, Oundle Road

The Burghley, Burghley Road

THU APR 18 ACOUSTIC NIGHT DAVE SMITH + ROB BULL + ADAM LEON + JAMES DOHERTY S Bar, Stilton

The Old Swan, Earls Barton

FRI APR 26

CAUSTIC LIGHTS The Fayre Spot, Bretton

TO ENHANCE YOUR GIGS PLEASE CONTACT US ON 01733 381266 FOR MORE DETAILS

The Burghley, Burghley Road

SAMM's, Bridge Street

LATE NIGHT JAZZ

BON ROGERS

SARAH COLLINS

The Pizza Parlour & Music Cafe, Cowgate

The Pizza Parlour & Music Cafe, Cowgate

LIVE MUSIC SAMM's, Bridge Street

CJ HATT The Yard of Ale, Oundle Road

CUTTIN LOOSE The Carpenter's Arms, Boston

DIRTY RUMOUR The Ploughman, Werrington

LATE NIGHT JAZZ The Pizza Parlour & Music Cafe, Cowgate

ONE EYED CATS The Burghley, Burghley Road

RETROLUX

MEG MCPARTLIN

TUE APR 23

Fletton Club, High Street

ARC NATION + TRUE BRITISH MAYHEM

RAMSHACKLE SERENADE

The Burghley, Burghley Road

The Ostrich, North Street

REVOLVER

OPEN MIC WITH ANNA RADFORD

The Ploughman, Werrington

The Pizza Parlour & Music Cafe, Cowgate

STEALER

MON APR 29 THE RAINMEN The Pizza Parlour & Music Cafe, Cowgate

TUE APR 30

LATE NIGHT JAZZ

OPEN MIC WITH ANNA RADFORD

The Pizza Parlour & Music Cafe, Cowgate

The Pizza Parlour & Music Cafe, Cowgate

LEFTOVAS The Golden Fleece, Stamford The Crown, Lincoln Road

THU MAY 2 NEW GENERATION CRASH AND BURN

LIVE MUSIC

O'Neill's, Broadway

SAMM's, Bridge Street

VOODOO ACOUSTIC Mama Liz's, Stamford

WED APR 24

THE INTRUDERS

BACKROOM ACOUSTIC

The Parkway Club, Maskew Avenue

THIRD STONE FROM THE SUN

The Blue Bell, Werrington

THE EXPLETIVES

VELOCITY The Fayre Spot, Bretton

CHILDREN OF THE REVOLUTION The Brewery Tap, Westgate

ROCKET '57 Carpenter's Arms, Coates

LATE NIGHT JAZZ The Pizza Parlour & Music Cafe, Cowgate

LEFTOVAS The Mason's Arms, Bourne

PEGLER + KILL ME KATE + THE BOATMEN + CHRIS WATSON AND LAURETTE The Parkway Club, Maskew Avenue

TAKE TWO The Parkway Club, Maskew Avenue

The Cock Inn, Werrington

COUNTRY MIX

THE ZEPHYRS

The Pizza Parlour & Music Cafe, Cowgate

The Ploughman, Werrington

OPEN MIC NIGHT

VELOCITY

The Met Lounge, Bridge Street

The Yard of Ale, Oundle Road

CHILDREN OF THE REVOLUTION The Prince of Wales Feathers, Castor

The London Inn, Stamford

LEFTOVAS

THE BALLOONS

The Ploughman, Werrington

Charters, Town Bridge

THIRD STONE FROM THE SUN

SUN APR 28

THE GUARDS

The Angel Inn, Ramsey

The Boat Inn, Whittlesey

The Burghley, Burghley Road

The Crown, Lincoln Road The Blue Bell, Werrington

ACOUSTIC SESSION

DIRTY RUMOUR

The Peacock, London Road

SOUND INJECTORS

FRI MAY 3

THE AGENTS

ROCKET 57

The Yard of Ale, Oundle Road

Ebeneezers, Woodston

The Crown, Lincoln Road

Charters, Town Bridge

The Ploughman, Werrington

The Blue Bell, Dogsthorpe

KICK BACK

OPEN MIC WITH THE INTERIM ROOM

FRI APR 19

TWO LUCKY PLUCKERS (3PM)

MULLERED AT THE MILL

MON APR 22

The Pizza Parlour & Music Cafe, Cowgate

The Frothblowers, Werrington

IRON FIST

LET THERE B D/C

DIGGIN FOR DIAMONDS The Brewery Tap, Westgate

DIZZY MISS LIZZYS

The Cock Inn, Werrington

The Pizza Parlour & Music Cafe, Cowgate

The Pizza Parlour & Music Cafe, Cowgate

Ebeneezers, Woodston

ROB BULL (3PM)

DAVID LAST The Parkway Club, Maskew Avenue

THE MIGHTY AND THE HIGH The Yard of Ale, Oundle Road

THIRD STONE FROM THE SUN The Crown, Lincoln Road

TORI LAMOUR + CALL TO THE FAITHFUL + NOVA STATUS The Met Lounge, Bridge Street

MIZMERISE

VELOCITY

The Pizza Parlour & Music Cafe, Cowgate

The Golden Fleece, Stamford

SATURDAY APRIL 6

THE MOTOR CITY VIPERS

GIG of the MONTH

Charity gig with top local soul band The Motor City Vipers at The Brewery Tap on Westgate, Peterborough raising money for Sue Ryder Thorpe Hall Hospice. Tickets are £10 available from band members, DJs or by credit/debit card from the bar on 01733 358500.

www.espmag.co.uk

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