ESP February 2018

FEBRUARY 2018 Issue 222

R SINCE 1998

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Bringing you the best of local Leisure and Lifestyle in Greater Peterborough for 19 years!

Food Health and wellbeing comedy Live music Films

Peterborough celebrates

PecT 25 years Nene Park’s 40th 20th Dragon boat Festival is launched

Julia michaels Feature

PETERBOROUGH CITY • STAMFORD • BOURNE • DEEPINGS • SPALDING CROWLAND • WHITTLESEY • HAMPTON • SAWTRY • STILTON • OUNDLE EVEN MORE NEWS AND EVENTS ON www.esPmaG.co.uk OR LIKE US ON Facebook OR FOLLOW US ON TwiTTer TO HEAR FIRST

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850+ PLACES EDITORIAL

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

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, Tim Steele

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 Dominic Edge

DARREN COMPLETES ICE CHALLENGE

He’s only gone and done it!

We have to say a huge congratulations to ESP’s resident action man and adventurer Darren Grigas who braved -50 degrees in his latest charity fundraiser.

Darren ran 100 miles across a frozen lake in Mongolia – as you do – in his latest bid to raise vital funds for the Stamford based charity Anna’s Hope which helps children with brain tumours.

It’s a cause close to his heart and he keeps stretching himself to his limits to raise more funds for this great cause.

When we last looked he was oh so close to achieving his £3,000 target so let’s help him smash it – please donate on www.justgiving.com/ fundraising/mongolianice challenge We’ll have Darren’s full story in our next issue but believe us when we say he’s suffered for this great cause!

CITY OF FESTIVALS

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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T: 01733 381266 E: office@espmag.co.uk

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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"We have already identified a number of events that we would like to add to the annual calendar including folk, jazz, classical music, street performance and food festivals.

We would like to hear from residents with their ideas, and from businesses who would like to offer support with funding and sponsorship."

If you’d like to propose new festivals and events to be staged in the city, or if your business may be able to offer support with funding or sponsorship, please email annette.joyce@peterborough .gov.uk.

CELLAR BAR The Cellar Bar in Stamford is now under new management and being run by the friendly arts centre team within the heart of Stamford Arts Centre. It’s open Monday to Saturday, 7pm to 11pm and hosts regular poetry, comedy and music nights. You can drop in and enjoy a drink any evening and before or after arts centre shows & films.

Grab a copy of the new Cellar Bar Live brochure which is available now.

BOLLYWOOD FOOD AND FUN

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

Annette Joyce, Peterborough City Council Director of City Services and Communications, said: “These festivals and events provide vibrancy to the city centre, install pride and a sense of belonging to Peterborough residents, promote diversity, support cultural and social cohesion, and increase footfall to support employment and the retail economy. Most of all they are enjoyable and fun.

Peterborough has developed a wonderful series of free festivals throughout the year and they’re being brought together under this new Peterborough City of Festivals banner to better promote them.

Peterborough City Council’s City Services and Communications Service which is the lead producer of festivals in the city hopes it will increase the number of free festivals and events across the city and encourage more local and community groups to host festivals and events within Peterborough city centre supported by local businesses.

If you fancy a short trip out of town Slepe Hall Hotel in St Ives has recently been taken over and has lined up some great entertainment events well worth a visit.

New owners Emilie and her husband Shammi Malik told ESP – “We love the hotel's uniqueness, charm, location and potential. Our intention is to make it the number one ‘go to place for both the local community and tourists looking for quality accommodation, food, drink and entertainment.

“As parents of two young boys, we have a good understanding of what type of food families are looking for and have been working with our Head Chef to

jazz up all the menus. The venue is a magnet for weddings, conferences and hosts a wide array of events.

“Adding to these we have introduced a series of Food Themed Nights, offering 3 course meals, live entertainment and dancing starting with a Latino night in February and a Bollywood Night on March 17 with special guest Jay Kumar and BBC Asian Chef Manju Malhi.”

Book now on 01480 463122.

FROTHBLOWERS CELEBRATES FIRST BIRTHDAY Happy first birthday to the Frothblowers micro pub in Werrington! We hear they’ll be celebrating with a few special events this month including a Birthday Quiz on February 21, their regular Grub Club on February 22 and then it’s party time from Friday February 23 – Sunday 25. There will no doubt be a cracking range of real ales to enjoy as always.

‘WALK TO REMEMBER’ FOR THORPE HALL HOSPICE

A spring woodland is the setting for a new event on the calendar at Sue Ryder Thorpe Hall Hospice, giving people the chance to remember loved ones while fundraising for hospice care.

Walk to Remember is a 5km walk of remembrance and reflection open to people from across the region – and early bird entry is now available.

It’s hoped hundreds of people will join the walk on Sunday May 20 which starts in the beautiful grounds of Thorpe Hall Hospice in Longthorpe before heading out to Longthorpe village, through woodland and back to the finishing line in the grounds of NGA HR, Thorpe Hall’s neighbours, for a celebratory drink and rest.

The route has been chosen to be perfect for families and pets giving everyone chance to remember someone special, celebrate the life of someone who’s missed or just enjoy a spring stroll.

Early bird prices are £7 for adults, £4 for children or £20 for a family (two adults plus two children).

and have a fantastic night full of music, laughter and entertainment in store, so please do join us!

For more details and to sign up visit www.sueryder.org/ WalkToRemember

“All money raised will help us continue providing care for children with life-threatening conditions across the region and support for their families.”

ARK PROPERTY CENTRE EXPANDS INTO CITY If you live in Spalding, Bourne or Boston you’ll be familiar with estate agents Ark Property Centre.

Now this family run business, which celebrates its 10th anniversary next, is expanding its sales and lettings service to Peterborough.

So whether you’re buying, renting or letting in the city Ark will be able to give you a range of support.

The Peterborough representative is Konner Woods who’s promising a hands on approach for both tenants and landlords. They use a tablet to send instant reports and pictures to landlords when they carry out inspections, and for tenants there’s online access and an app to report and track any maintenance issues.

They will also have 24 hour access to all of their important information and be informed of important dates such as tenancy inspections.• There’s an exclusive launch offer available of 7% + vat of the monthly rent for a full management service.

Gates will open at 6.30pm when you can just grab your spot and settle down ready for the film around 8pm.

Tickets are £12 to book and for more information about both the event and the charity’s care services, visit www.each.org.uk/cinema.

SIMPLY M&S The transformation at Serpentine Green is continuing with the long awaited M&S Simply Food now open at the centre in Hampton. It’s taken up residence alongside NEXT so drop by and pick up some tasty snacks.

PROCOOK OPENS @ SPRINGFIELDS If you’re a Bake Off fan or like whipping up one of Jamie Oliver’s quick meals you’ll be keen to stock up on all your kitchen goodies at great prices.

The latest new addition at Springfields Outlet Shopping Centre in Spalding is the ProCook store which opens on Friday February 2.

HAMPTON SKATEPARK JAM

Give them a call on 01733 796688 or check www.arkproperty centre.co.uk or Facebook @arkpropertycentre

OPEN AIR CINEMA COMING TO FERRY MEADOWS Classic musical Mamma Mia will be the feature film when East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH) hosts an open air cinema experience at Peterborough’s Ferry Meadows Country Park.

The event on Saturday April 28 promises to be full of fun, with a live band to entertain until the film begins. there’ll be hot food and drinks, or why not take a picnic.

Polly West, EACH Cambridgeshire Community Fundraiser, said: “We’re really excited to be screening such a popular film as Mamma Mia

If you skate, scoot or love BMX Hampton Skatepark on Beaumont Way in Hampton Hargate is the place to be this month.

On Saturday February 17 there’ll be a whole day of best trick jams for skateboard, scooter and BMX – one bowl jam, one street. There’ll be prizes for best trick for over 18s, and under 18s as well as additional throw outs for anyone.

There’ll be prizes from Castillo Skateboards, Maui and Son’s (scooters), The Lesser Brand (clothing) and more.

Check out all the details on facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ events/186514028601859/

LocalEntertainment

Dom Edge has the ESP guide to the best shows around…

Manwatching

Dance to the Music Never before has a dancing show been packed with such versatility.

Kristina Rihanoff’s Dance to the Music promises a waltz through all styles of dancing, including Argentine Tango, Lindy Hop, Rock-n-Roll, Breakdancing and so much more!

Creator and star Kristina will be joined by a whole range of other Strictly professionals, including Robin Windsor and Oksana Platero, as well as X Factor finalist Chris Maloney and singer/songwriter Beth Sherburn, who’ll provide the music.

Dance to the Music on Sunday February 11 really will have something for everyone, so drop any preconceptions, open your mind and experience an evolution of dance through the eras – you’re bound to find a new passion!

Tickets begin at £26 and VIP upgrades are available. To find out more or to book tickets visit www.cresset.co.uk or call 01733 265705.

If I’m honest, female sexual desire is something I’ve never understood. Every time I thought I’ve come close I’ve only found myself red-faced with embarrassment and scratching my head in confusion.

Thankfully Manwatching gives an anonymous woman the chance to deliver a frank and hilarious insight into her personal desires, albeit told through a rare and unusual voice – an unsuspecting male comedian, who’s never seen the script before.

You’ll see me there with a notepad and pen, but if The Telegraph’s rave reviews are to be believed we’ll be crippled with laughter anyway.

Catch this fascinating and funny show at the Key Theatre Studio on Thursday February 8.

Tickets are £11.50 and can be bought online at www.vivacity-peterborough.com or by calling the box office on 01733 207239.

One of London’s true institutions packs up its musicians, rare archive footage and even its Musical Director and unwraps them at The Key Theatre for a night celebrating Ronnie Scott’s, one of the planet’s most famous jazz clubs.

The club, which has played host to Ella Fitzgerald, Prince, Miles Davis and so many others, brings The Ronnie Scott’s All Stars to the stage to celebrate The Ronnie Scott’s Soho Songbook. The event on Thursday February 15 will combine live jazz with narration, rare archive images and footage to bring a slice of London and jazz history to Peterborough for one night only.

This is a must for any jazz fan, so don’t miss out on tickets which are priced at £19.50.

Book online at www.vivacitypeterborough.com or call the box office on 01733 207239.

The Band of the Royal Marines with Stamford Endowed Schools

Beyond the Barricade Wouldn’t It Be Loverly if you could watch all your favourite West End and Broadway hits from one stage?

I Dreamed A Dream that I could, and it appears that Beyond The Barricade heard me!

The Cresset welcomes the return of Beyond The Barricade on Friday March 2 after their extensive tour of Europe and beyond. The evening promises a brand new production of musical hit songs, performed by a cast of past principal performers from the West End production of Les Miserables. The two hour blockbuster will include songs

The Ronnie Scott’s All Stars

from The Lion King, Miss Saigon, Phantom of the Opera and many more hit productions, all climaxing with a spectacular finale from Les Miserables!

Grab your tickets for £22.50 from www.cresset.co.uk or by calling 01733 265705.

The twentieth year of the Royal Marines’ charity concerts sees the band playing with the Stamford Endowed School students.

The concert at Stamford Corn Exchange, which requests entry donations of £5, will feature a traditional Royal Marines programme including music as a tribute to Sir Malcolm Sargent on

Thursday February 22.

The donations from the evening will be donated to CLIC Sargent, who are the UK’s leading cancer charity for children, young people and their families, as well as Military Charities UK. Tickets are only available by calling the box office on 01780 766455. Booking fees will apply.

For even more news and events, check out our website

www.espmag.co.uk

Judy and Liza You’d be hard-pressed to think of a more adored mother-daughter team in showbiz than Judy Garland and Liza Minnelli.

Peterborough Arts Cinema Another month of varied film screenings is lined up at the John Clare Theatre on Broadway every Thursday this month.

The Burlesque Show It’s cold outside, but allow The Burlesque Show to get you hot under the collar.

Beautiful choreography, hilarious routines, classic comedy and daring magic all combine to deliver the most highly regarded production of its kind in the UK, which features the finest artistes of the genre.

This award-winning performance will delight and excite everyone, so get down to the Key Theatre on Saturday February 17 for a night of tassels, tease and titivating laughter.

Tickets are £23.50 and available from www.vivacity-peterborough.com or by calling the box office on 01733 207239.

Launch Day Launch Day is a celebration of the North East and all its industrial glory like you’ve never seen it before.

Inspired by the paintings of artist Alexander Millar, the Kelly-Abbott Dance Theatre has crafted a pulsating and powerful piece of dance theatre which brings to life Millar’s iconic characters (the ‘Gadgies’ and British shipyard workers).

The soundtrack will captivate the audience with music from Mark Knopfler and Irish composer Breifne Holohan, and is the cherry on the cake for a rousing celebration of Britain’s working class and shipbuilding past.

See it at the Key Theatre on Wednesday February 21.Tickets are £16.50 for adults or £11.50 for students, and can be bought at www.vivacitypeterborough.com or by calling the box office on 01733 207239.

On Thursday February 1 it’s Land of Mine set in Denmark in 1945 after the defeat of Germany – a film which was Nominated Oscar Best Foreign Film.

The two iconic performers are brought back to the stage with a new musical experience coming to Peterborough’s Key Theatre, aptly named Judy and Liza. Set against a background of photographs and movie clips of the two women, this production features performances of the classic hits including Cabaret, Maybe This Time and The Man That Got Away.

The audience will also hear the sensational stories of the stars, all bought to life by West End star Emma Dears, who fills the big boots of Liza.

Don’t miss this rare opportunity to enjoy some of the 20th century’s most beautiful songs on Monday February 12. Tickets are £26.50 and can be bought at www.vivacitypeterborough.com or by calling the box office on 01733 207239.

Finding Nana Set in a seaside hotel of halcyon childhood summers, this autobiographical play is sure to tug on your heartstrings.

Award-winning writer Jane Upton charts a heartfelt journey back to find a beloved Nana before she forgot who she was. The play captures that unconditional love between a granddaughter and her Nana, and the desperate need to capture and savour memories before they disappear.

See it at the South Holland Centre in Spalding on Thursday February 22.

Tickets are priced at £12.50 and can be purchased at www.southhollandcentre.co.uk or by calling 01775 746777.

Up ‘n’ Under Losing your house in an amateur rugby league bet is a blinking nightmare, and not a fate I’d wish to befall another.

Lo and behold, Reg and Arthur have made a similar bet in Up ‘n’ Under. Arthur must train The Wheatsheaf Arms (who’ve never won a game, spend more time in the pub and don’t

even have the right number of players) to beat Reg’s Cobblers Arms, who remain unbeaten at the top of the league, inflicting fear into every single team they play. What’s more, Arthur’s team is deaf, and he can’t communicate with them.

The clock is ticking in this fast moving and witty-retelling

of John Godber’s award winning play, which brings together Fingersmith’s visual and physical storytelling with a cast of deaf and hearing actors using both British Sign Language and spoken English.

It’s running from Monday February 12 - Wednesday February 14 in The Key Theatre Studio.

Tickets are £16, and can be bought at www.vivacitypeterborough.com or by calling the box office on 01733 207239.

Next up it’s the rollicking adaptation of the best-selling novel by Stephen Fry, Hippopotamus, screening on Thursday February 8. It centres on a lapsed poet, failed drama critic, redundant husband and hard-working drunk, Ted Wallace (the mellifluously voiced Roger Allam in a rare starring role). Fired from his newspaper job, Ted leaps at the chance to drown his sorrows at his old friend's country estate, Swafford Hall. A series of spiritual healings have recently put the household in a tizzy.

Next up on Thursday February 15 it’s Spanish film El Pastor (The Shepherd).

A self-sufficient shepherd’s home and way of life is threatened when property developers take an interest in his land.

The month rounds off with French film Slack Bay on Thursday February 22.

Starring Juliette Binoche and set in summer 1910. Several tourists have vanished while relaxing on the beautiful beaches of the Channel Coast and the incident must be solved by Infamous inspectors Machin and Malfoy. www.espmag.co.uk

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LocalEvents

Peterborough Photographic Society Annual Exhibition We have some talented photographers in Peterborough and there’s a chance to see just how good some of them really are at a special exhibition this month.

Peterborough Photographic Society hosts its annual exhibition at St John’s Church, Cathedral Square, Peterborough from February 19 to February 24.

It’s free admission and is a great opportunity for anyone interested in photography to see locally created work and to speak to Club members.

Judging by these images from last year’s exhibition the standard is set pretty high so it’ll be interesting see what they’ve captured this time.

For more info visit www.peterboroughps.org.uk and their Facebook page.

Peterborough Museum’s The Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Rest: Stories from a Wartime Tea Room exhibition, which launched in January, is proving extremely popular and runs until mid April.

The exhibition, which brings to life two train station visitor books that were filled by servicemen and soldiers on their journey to the frontline in 1916-1917, has been enhanced with the addition of a new short feature film.

The film re-enacts scenes of the soldiers and servicemen in the local train station tea room, which was set up by the Women’s United Total Abstinence Council (WUTAC) to keep servicemen away from the pubs as they waited for their trains.

Tom Fox of Lamphouse Theatre, the company performing in the films, says it was a rewarding experience creating the film: “To give voice to these words of a previous generation, during such a pivotal moment in history, has been a real privilege, but also a huge responsibility to the people we are representing and their families. We are working hard to do them justice and tell their stories as faithfully and respectfully as possible.

“We hope that it will enhance Vivacity’s exhibition, which humanises the events surrounding one of the most destructive periods in world history.”

Rachel Walmsley, Vivacity’s Heritage Programmes and Commercial Development Manager, says: “We are so lucky to have such talented actors on board. It’s really exciting to see these fascinating and emotional stories brought to life. Having these stories not only to read, but also played out on screen, makes the whole experience of the exhibition so immersive and evocative.”

The exhibition is free to attend between the hours of 10am-5pm and runs until April 15.

Dom Edge 8

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Photo: Chris Brudenell

New Film adds to Stories from a Wartime Tea Room

The Blitz Bash 1940’s Night If you like the big band tunes of the 1940s or a vintage vibe why not head along to the Blitz Bash event at Peterborough Town Hall on Saturday February 24?

There’ll be great music from the GB home Guard Function Band to get you up on the dancefloor and if you like to get in the wartime spirit with some 40’s fashion there’ll be a prize for the best dressed lady!

This great evening includes food, a bar, tombola, raffle and an optional quiz from 7.30pm – 11pm.

Tickets are £15 (includes buffet) on 01733 452319 and it’s all in aid of the Mayor’s Charities.

LocalEvents

Olympic gymnast Louis Smith MBE beat the drum to launch the 20th Peterborough Dragon Boat Festival and swapped his pommel horse for a paddle.

Photos: Emma Bothamley

O

ur local sports star is used to tough competition and challenged local teams to sign up for this year’s event which returns to Peterborough Rowing Lake on Saturday June 9.

The ESP Motley Crew are all signed up and we’re proud to be the print media partner for the second year alongside radio partners Connect FM who’ll be compering on the day.

It was great fun last year (we even managed not to capsize and did pretty well!) so we’re now limbering up to take on event sponsors Motorpoint and the event’s charity Sue Ryder Thorpe Hall Hospice when they hit the water.

Organisers Gable Events, are expecting a bumper turnout to celebrate the 20th anniversary year with over 30 teams expected to descend on Thorpe Meadows in June.

Entries are now open so get your workmates together, your local club, sports team or even just your friends to form a crew and get ready for some great fun on the water. It’s really easy and you don’t need any previous experience at all. You’ll get to race three times throughout the day plus you can have a BBQ bankside and chill with your family and friends in between races.

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Festival charity Sue Ryder Thorpe Hall Hospice has to fundraise £2.3 million in 2018 to continue providing their incredible end of life care to people across the region, which makes events like the Dragon Boat Festival even more important.

To tie in with the 20th anniversary, the charity has set the target of raising £20,000 at the event so that their staff and volunteers can continue to be there to give more families the time, memories and care they need at the most difficult time.

There is a great incentive for teams to raise as much sponsorship as possible as the top fundraisers will win the fabulous prize of a private raceview suite, finger buffet and sponsored race package worth £600 once again kindly donated by Peterborough Greyhound Stadium.

For more information and an entry form call Festival organisers Gable Events on 01780 470718 or visit www.dragonboatfestivals.co.uk/peterborough

Sue Ryder Thorpe Hall Hospice - What funds raised by the teams will buy…

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Raise £150 as a team and you could ensure a Hospice at Home nurse has a mobile working bag with all the kit they need to care for someone out in the community

•

£500 could pay for a bed for a day of inpatient care for a hospice patient

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£1,150 could cover the cost of running one of their Hospice at Home services for a day

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£2,500 could buy a pressure-relieving mattress to ensure patients are as comfortable as possible when movement is limited

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£3,000 could pay for a hospice nurse for a month

Change someone’s life – and yours!

You could help vulnerable and homeless people in Peterborough by:

Volunteer for a few hours a week with the YMCA and you will gain new skills, meet new people and give back to your community – but most importantly you’ll help transform someone’s life.

Joining our fundraising and events team to promote the YMCA and raise funds to support our work Volunteer to help a disabled gym user achieve new goals

Over 17,000 hours were donated to the YMCA last year by community volunteers just like you!

Work alongside our Youth Justice projects to support vulnerable young people in custody

Find out more about our volunteering opportunities and join our team by visiting www.ymcatrinity.org.uk or call Lauren on 01733 373188.

SUPPORT & ADVICE

ACCOMMODATION

FAMILY WORK

HEALTH & WELLBEING

Charity no: 1069810

HEALTH & WELLBEING

What will YOU do as part of Peterborough Celebrates?

How to get involved: •

Host your own 900-themed event or activity

•

Add a Peterborough Celebrates element to your existing campaign, event or activity

•

Add the logo to your marketing collateral

•

Volunteer at or attend some of the planned celebrations

•

Visit the Cathedral

•

Spread the word!

This year Peterborough’s beautiful cathedral marks its 900th anniversary but we’re all being asked to join the party and mark the occasion under the banner of Peterborough Celebrates.

ESP is excited to support this great year long campaign which aims to attract visitors to the city and to also encourage you to visit the iconic cathedral in its 900th year.

There are loads of special events planned and everyone’s being encouraged to get stuck in and support the events, stage your own or just get your club/ group/ organisation to do something that’s linked to the 900 theme.

It’s easy to come up with something and play your part in all sorts of ways. Best Western Plus Orton Hall Hotel & Spa have planted 900 bulbs in the grounds of the hotel which will be in full bloom in spring. Nene Valley Railway is giving away 900 free rides on the railway and Anna’s Hope will be staging a Fairy World Record calling for 900 people to dress as fairies at Peterborough Cathedral on June 10. The ideas are endless!

The campaign is open to everyone and is a chance to get behind the festivities and support it in whatever way you’d like.

If you’re interested in being a part of this city-wide celebration, visit www.peterborough celebrates.org.uk and click to Get Involved or Donate.

Upcoming events, offers & activities: Outspoken Cycles – Outspoken Cycles are offering a 20% discount to all Peterborough Celebrates event/activity organisers in 2018. Outdoor Cycles offer bike maintenance training courses, cycle hire, mobile bike mechanic services and delivery of fun, dynamic and unique cycle themed events. www.outspokencycles.co.uk B & H Sound – B&H Sound are offering a 20% discount to all Peterborough Celebrates event/activity organisers in 2018.

B+H provides sound, light and AV solutions to the live event industry. Find out more at www.bhsound.co.uk/ who-we-are Facebook competition – Dragonfly Hotel The Dragonfly Hotel are running a Facebook competition to raise awareness of Peterborough as a

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great place to stay. The 900th like will win an overnight stay at the hotel.

Pizza 900 Competition!

Local primary school children are being asked to draw a Pizza 900 with their favourite toppings on. The lucky winners will be invited to a pizza making demonstration at the cathedral followed by a rooftop tour. Papa Luigi will also produce the children’s best pizzas at the Italian Festival and sell slices with all profits going to the cathedral.

900 Voices of the River Nene Throughout the year the Nenescape Landscape Partnership Scheme will be documenting 900 voices in various media forms of people who live near the River Nene, between Northampton and Peterborough.

Cathedral Concert – Bach: St John Passion, Saturday March 10 Peterborough Cathedral choirs present a concert performance of Bach’s famous masterpiece.

Northamptonshire Music & Performing Arts Trust Concert at Peterborough Cathedral – March 17 In partnership with Nenescape Landscape Partnership Scheme, a 200 strong choir and orchestra will perform a specially composed piece of music about the River Nene, written by Benjamin Till. The extended piece of music will be performed in November at the Royal Albert Hall as part of the launch of Nenescape.

Special services at Peterborough Cathedral to mark Holy Week and Easter March 26 to April 1

900 Steps to Haven at the Railworld Wildlife Haven The Railworld Wildlife Haven has lots of little walks around its landscaped habited area, perfect for children to explore. They want you to walk it in exactly 900 steps this Easter! The first child to do this wins FREE entry for their family for the whole season at Railworld Wildlife Haven.

900 Not Out - Free Ticket Bonanza, Nene Valley Railway March 17 and 18 Nene Valley Railway are giving away 900 free rides on the railway!

Group Travel World 900 Metre Race – Peterborough Athletics Track, April 18 Can you beat Posh mascot Peter Burrow to the finish line? The race is on for you and your colleagues over 900 metres.

Opportunities for your company to showcase its business with a trade stand at this event.

We stock • New Oak Furniture • Lundy Painted Furniture • Clovely Oak • Somerset Oak

Also we have a large selection of Real Wood and Laminate Flooring, As well as carpets Vinyl and more.

Please see in store

Serpentine Green Shopping Centre ( Opposite Burger King) Hampton, Peterborough PE7 8BE TEL 01733 314482 | www.therealwoodfurniturestore.com

Free Bottle of Glass Cleaner when you quote ESP

ManTown about

ano Pep Cipri

pep.cipriano@espmag.co.uk

Naked Truth?

A gym in London is giving members naked workout sessions.

Apparently, going starkers allows your body to breathe and makes it flexible. One of my New Year Resolutions was to join a gym...

Share the Love this Valentine’s Here we go again, my favourite time of the year. Regular readers will know how much I love Valentine’s Day – I get the same pleasure from it as stapling my eyelids shut.

Lots of men experience the annual trauma of trying to buy something that impresses the ball and chain. But more often than not, our carefully thought-out gift is as much use to her as an underactive thyroid.

The solution to getting her to appreciate what you’ve spent your beer money on is to purchase something you’ll both benefit from. So, if you’re stuck for ideas, here’s my top five suggestions to keep the love burning between you.

1. A weekend trip to Barcelona. It just so happens Barcelona are playing Real Madrid that weekend.

The deal you found on the internet threw in two free tickets to the game and it’ll be a shame to waste them…

2. Her New Year Resolution was to get outdoors more. Vinyl wrap the lawnmower in pink with silver glitter. She can mow the front and you’ll do the back where no-one can see you with that hideous contraption.

3. Install a smart meter. She’ll see how much electricity she’s

CIAOS OUT

spending when the house is constantly lit up like the Las Vegas strip. The money you’ll save will buy your flights to Sin City this summer.

4. Get tickets for Strictly Come Dancing. She’ll be eyeing up Gorka and Alijaz and you’ll be foaming at the mouth at Dianne Buswell and Nadiya Bychkova. You’re both happy. Result.

5. Potpourri. She’ll sprinkle a few into in a wooden bowl in the living room and you’ll pour a load at the end of the bed next to her smelly feet.

Loyalty at The Lightbox As I approach my late 30’s it’s the little things that make all the difference and impress me the most. That’s why I was honoured to be presented with the first loyalty card from The Lightbox Café.

I took to this place from the minute it opened. I spend on average a couple of days a week slurping very nice coffee and scoffing the best homemade cakes from within The Lightbox, so it’s no surprise that I smashed my first loyalty card within a month!

And it’s not just about decent coffee and cake. Breakfast and brunch is heavenly too.

They do just about everything you can think of with eggs including the delicious Super Scramble (eggs, avocado and baby plum tomatoes) for just £4.

But what I think owner Eve deserves the biggest pat on the back for, is diversifying by opening up to the evening crowd when coffee turns into cocktails and pleasant background music makes way for DJs. On Fridays from 9pm it’s all about pure classics from 90’s Brit Pop to early house music and on Saturday nights it’s time for funk, soul and disco. Providing evening entertainment is a good move and all of a sudden, the night scene on Bridge Street is starting to recapture that vibe it had during the late 80s.

Louis – any joy with a building? Rob – thanks for sorting The Nostalgia Lounge Dom – how’s the Big Smoke? Jules – still waiting for you to pop round…

Marco – time for that Peroni God – can the weather be warmer now?

For even more news and events, check out our website

www.espmag.co.uk

OF THE MONTH

WORD

Well, it’s the month of lurve, so it’d be rude not to. This is love: smiling at the mother-inlaw, washing skid-mark pants, scatter cushions, belching, loading the dishwasher, talking when Match of the Day is on, farting in bed, two stone heavier than when you were single, unicorns everywhere, standing barefoot on hairclips, ludicrous heating bill, always in overdraft and losing sole ownership of the remote control.

MY

LOVE

Not Flower arranging then Darren?

Puzzles? Celebrates First Year!

I see our resident adventurer Darren Grigas took absolutely no notice of the New Year’s Resolution I suggested for him in last month’s column.

But since his latest challenge is raising money for local charity Anna's Hope, I’ll let him off.

Darren set off for Outer-Mongolia to run 100 miles across a frozen lake. At the exact same time of his attempt, I set off from my comfy sofa for the kitchen to make a cosy hot chocolate.

Word is he hasn’t been eaten by wolves, a lynx, bears or any other sharp-toothed animals that inhabit the area, so donations to Darren’s good cause can be made here: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/mongolianicechallenge

Happy Birthday to Puzzles? on Bridge Street who’ve just celebrated their first year in business and what a fab 12 months it’s been for them.

I popped in for a cheeky Amaretto Sour on the night of their birthday celebrations and caught up with owner Matt Murphy.

“It’s been a great first year for us by all accounts. We’ve completely blown apart the expectations we set ourselves and I’m particularly happy because it feels as though the general public have properly warmed to our way of doing things.

“One of the highlights for me has been our Thursday Open Mic Unless you’ve nights, which seem to already be established thanks to an amazing been living in a regular crowd. I’m also proud of all the local connections we’ve built. Be bunker waiting for it the breweries we work with, the musicians and artists from the area Donald Trump to and even local charities – it’s great to be able to work so closely with press the red them all.” button, you will It’s good to see Puzzles? and several other businesses run by have noticed by independents reporting positive starts and long may this continue. now the big The pressure is different for new start-ups compared to say 20 years building that’s ago. Back then operators put themselves under pressure by taking shape just spending copious amounts on décor and lavish launches and menus over the town and so on. bridge on Fletton Today less is more. What matters most is atmosphere and Quays. customer service. Yes, what’s on offer still needs to be good but nobody wants a complicated life and Within a couple of years, the whole area will be the same can be said for our social complete with offices, flats, shops and a hotel that’ll scene, what we drink and what we boast a rooftop bar. It’ll be a great place for a sunset eat. strawberry daiquiri but if it’s top quality gin and It looks like 2018 is set to go from whisky you’re after then The Nene Distillery will strength to strength for Matt and his definitely be worth a visit. team. He’s currently exploring The Nene Distillery Ltd is renovating the bringing stand-up comedy to the impressive Grade II-listed Goods Shed at Fletton venue and there’s other good stuff in Quays to house a whisky and gin distillery with a the pipeline that he won’t let me talk complementing restaurant. about just yet!

It’ll include a whisky vault showcasing worldIn the meantime, Puzzles? class whiskies from around the globe and unique continues to provide a real alternative virtual reality experience where you’ll be taken into for nightlife (and daylife) in an immersive experience of distilling illicit Peterborough. Happy Birthday guys. moonshine in the American Deep South during For all the latest, visit prohibition. www.puzzlespeterborough.co.uk CAUGHT IN THE Locally sourced artisan food will be served in and make sure you keep up with the ACT! Sometimes Whit the restaurant too. Yum. latest on both their social media and unfairly misundertlesey and its people are stood. I can’t think ours. why.

Fancy a Tipple at Fletton Quays?

www.espmag.co.uk

15

LocalEvents

Peterborough Comic-Con is Coming!

Geek is chic!

As a kid I felt the need to conceal the fact that I was a geek. These days, thanks to copious amounts of superhero movies and shows such as The Big Bang Theory, it’s become something to be proud of.

Comic conventions have become increasingly popular year-on-year so I’ve no doubt that the Peterborough ComicCon will also be a huge success.

QKiY are bringing the inaugural event to the Cresset on Saturday March 24 (9.30am til 5pm).

They have plenty of attractions for all ages and interests – including fantastic photo opportunities, movie props, workshops and fun activities.

There’ll be plenty of exciting guests from the world of film and television, giving us Peterborians the chance to get a selfie with the likes of Josh Herdman (Harry Potter), David Schaal (The Inbetweeners, The Office), Martin Ballantyne (The Dark Knight, Harry Potter, The Golden Compass, Bourne Ultimatum) and Holli Dempsey (Derek, Dr Who, Dad’s Army).

“There’ll be plenty of exciting guests from the world of Film and Television...”

Those familiar with ESP writer, Marc Hernandez, will likely know that he’s a huge James Bond fan. He (and like-

Superhero City in Queensgate

T

here’s more comic and superhero action this half term so the kids (and big kids) have another excuse to get dressed up!

Whether you’re batty about Batman, in a spin with Wonder Woman or a trickster like The Joker, Superhero City is coming to Queensgate Shopping Centre this half term.

It sounds great fun for all the family so head down on Thursday February 15, and take your little superheroes (and villains) on an adventure to the metropolis of 16 www.espmag.co.uk

Superhero City. They can join The Joker and his cool sidekick Superpup to test out their super magic powers and become a master of disguise and make their own super cool cape and mask, or visit Wonder Woman at the Beauty Academy for a marvellous mini makeover.

If the kids want to find out if they have what it takes to be a real superhero they can join the Superhero Games Academy where only the steadiest hand can beat the giant buzzer, it’ll take super strength to steer the wrecking ball challenge, they can

minded people) will be pleased to hear that other guests include Chris Bunn, Nick Joseph and Peter Roy – who’ve all featured in a Bond movie.

For me, the best part of events such as this is the Cosplay. It’s amazing to see the time and effort put into some people’s costumes – with many looking identical to the characters they’re portraying.

With prizes available for adults (18+), Squads (Groups of 2 or more), Juniors (12-17) and under 12’s, there’ll no doubt be plenty of inventive costumes on display.

Another reason I love attending these is that the traders are always able to provide you with unique merchandise that you simply won’t find in the shops. You never know what you might find.

With lightsabre battles, gaming competitions and film vehicles also on display, it’s clear this article is just covering the tip of the iceberg.

For full details and to order your tickets, visit www.peterboroughcomic con.co.uk Mikey Clarke

learn to move like a superhero in Supergirl’s Dance School and they’ll know when their number’s up at the Batman Bingo.

The fun doesn’t stop there. The Joker and his team also invite little ones to pose for a photo by popping through the hero peep holes, solve the super tricky star puzzle, dress up and take on the world, help find the villain game and follow the Kryptonite Trail to win some super prizes.

Packed with games, workshops and fun for the whole family, this free event is open to all this half term from 11am until 4pm.

The circus is coming to town!

Circus Sallai is a brand new circus with a modern twist on the traditional and is launching a national tour right here in Peterborough.

The family behind it has been based in Peterborough for over 68 years and wants to celebrate 250 years of circus taking their show across the UK. The circus will be in Peterborough from March 13 -18 on the park near the Triangle between Bourges Boulevard and Lincoln Road.

Salvatore Sambito from Circus Sallai told ESP – “We

provide top quality entertainment consisting of award winning international artists.

“Our cast of acrobats, aerial performers, jugglers, clowns, magicians, stunt riders and many more are waiting to bring you excitement, joy, laughter and thrills.

“We want you to leave the ordinary day behind and come along to witness an extraordinary simply spectacular experience, in our magical world with beautiful lighting, fantastic music and fabulous costumes.

“This really is an event with something for everyone, if you’re a petrolhead, theatre-goer, thrillseeker or want to see one of the greatest shows of its time.”

The show will run for approximately two hours at various times throughout the week and is housed in a unique Big Top, which is climate controlled and features comfortable theatre-style seating.

On the opening night all seats are £6.99 so book now on www.circus-sallai.co.uk.

Arena Hosts Ben Fund Bonanza Speedway Event If you fancy adding a little more excitement to 2018 why not give the city’s speedway team some support for an action packed night out.

The Peterborough Panthers are about to hit the dirt again at the East of England Arena with more thrills and spills and no brakes!

It’s exciting action and the fans are great and happy to explain the rules if you haven’t been along before.

They’re kicking off the new season with a special fundraiser for injured riders via the Speedway Jason Doyle Riders Benevolent Fund. The Ben Fund Bonanza will also see special guest World Champion Jason Doyle competing at the event on Sunday March 18.

Aussie Jason becomes the third reigning World Champ to line up in the event.

“The Ben Fund helped me many years ago when I was with Poole in 2007,” said Jason. “I needed it after breaking my ankle. So it’s benefited myself and many other riders. I spoke with Paul Ackroyd the other day and he told me they have forked out over £80,000 of help last year, which just shows how the riders benefit from the fund which this meeting is being staged for.”

Riders announced so far for the event are: Kenneth Bjerre, Hans Andersen, Bjarne Pedersen and Niels Kristian Iversen (Denmark), Chris Harris, Scott Nicholls and Danny King (UK), Jason Doyle and Nick Morris (Australia).

Find out more about the Peterborough Panthers and the new speedway season starting on Sunday March 25 on www.peterboroughpanthers.co

Food Glori us Food Harvest Barn Farmshop and Café off to a Great Start If you care about where your food comes from, how far it’s travelled and its quality the new Harvest Barn Farmshop and Café has the answers.

Steve and Lynn Briggs took over Whitehall Farm, Farcet in 2007 and share a passion for good quality, local food, but also about educating the public on how food is grown and how they manage the farm for the benefit of the environment.

Lynn told ESP the launch has been a big success – “We have had a great start despite the bad weather. Our cakes, paninis and giant meringues have been flying out the door and we’ve been pleasantly surprised by the customer response.

“Displaying the food miles of all of our produce has proved a big hit and the fact it’s all locally sourced is really popular.”

They are a small family run business growing a range of fruit and vegetables themselves with other produce being sourced from other local farmers and producers. Locally sourced meat is available but soon there will be a butcher working on site too.

The Harvest Barn is not only a great farmshop for picking up your fruit, veg

and meat but also has a lovely 30 seater café serving light lunches, which is well worth a visit.

They now have more great plans in the pipeline and the next phase will see the introduction of a courtyard and new play equipment in time for Easter, farm animals to see and new country walks in the summer.

Lynn added – “One of our main aims is to provide our customers with the opportunity to enjoy the farm environment, through the availability of open space and walks around the farm. We hope to open up the outside area in the spring and we will also be offering on-farm education visits to local schools and colleges later in the year too.”

You can find the Harvest Barn farmshop at Whitehall Farm, Ramsey Road, Farcet or check www.harvestbarn.co.uk for more details.

The Chubby Castor Opening Soon Not long to go now before the long awaited restaurant The Chubby Castor opens its doors after a complete refit.

The beautiful thatched building in the village of Castor is finally being brought back to life after remaining empty for far too long and there’s a real buzz surrounding its opening.

Their booking system should go live this month and then the countdown is on for the opening which should be any day now.

The new restaurant is the first solo venture by acclaimed chef Adebola Adeshina who’s been leading the kitchen at The Petersham Restaurant in Richmond since 2014 and has worked under Gordon Ramsey.

He’s promising ‘civilised dining with a focus on fresh and locally sourced produce, cooked in a modern British way’. www.thechubbycastor.com 18 www.espmag.co.uk

Let the Food Speak the Language of Love If you’re looking to wine and dine someone special this month - or just fancy treating yourself – the Italian’s know how it’s done, right?

Carluccio’s in Peterborough has come up with a Menu Amore available from February 8 – 14 for just £22.95 per person.

Choose three courses and you’ll be in love with the food at least!

Starters include a vibrant dish of tortelloni filled with beetroot and ricotta, as well as an antipasto sharing board with Italian charcuterie and cheese.

Indulge your seafood side with lobster linguine for mains or a British rose veal shank braised in red wine, tomato and orange zest sauce served with saffron risotto. For dessert, delight in a chocolate dessert board laden with treats of Carluccio’s Italian deli favourites, slices of chocolate and hazelnut tarocco, gianduiotti, cacao biscotti, truffles and chocolate dipped strawberries – just remember to share!

Of course the deli area also has some gorgeous gifts to choose from so whether you’re buying a prezzie or dining out it’s a win all round!

Steak Your Claim on Valentine’s Offer If it’s date night or you’re looking for somewhere to dine out this Valentine’s there’s a special offer at the Ramblewood in Orton Longueville that should get your heart racing.

You can fall in love with two delicious steaks and a bottle of wine for £45. Choose from either an 8oz rib-eye or sirloin steak and a bottle of house wine available on Wednesday February 14 only.

Book now on 01733 391111.

The Lightbox has Soul (Food) We like a little innovation and The Lightbox CafĂŠ and Embe2Go have joined forces to offer a regular new food option in the city centre.

What started out as just a ‘pop-up’ event is now going to be every Friday between 6pm and 9pm as well as one Thursday a month.

You can enjoy delicious soul food accompanied with cocktails, wine, and beer – and then finish off with a Lightbox vegan banana loaf with honey and cinnamon rum sauce! Embe will also be there this Valentine’s for soul food dining you’ll love. Book now.

Gin’s In @ The Ramblewood

We’ve always been big gin fans but now our favourite tipple is becoming ever more popular with more and more local pubs and bars stocking a wider range including The Ploughman in Werrington, The Ostrich on North Street, The Stoneworks in the city centre and The Beehive on

Bourges Boulevard to name just a few.

Now we’re pleased to add The Ramblewood to the list.

They’ve recently introduced a Gin Bar which features 16 gins with a range of Fever Tree tonics.

See you at the bar then‌ Hic!

Bet on a Great Valentine’s Night

50% OFF

If you fancy a Valentine’s night with a difference why not head to‌ the dogs!

On Wednesday February 14 they’re bringing you a night of fun, food, drink and racing at the Peterborough Greyhounds.

Packages start from ÂŁ14 per person in the Raceview Restaurant which includes stadium entry, programme, starter and main course, and only ÂŁ10.50 per person in their Pizza Pasta Restaurant.

If you want to make a bit more of a romantic statement you can add on a surprise package of flowers and choccies and decorations to add that special touch.

You will get table and tote messenger service to your table all night so you might even come away with a lovely pile of cash too!

Call 01733 296939 or book online at www.peterboroughgreyhounds.com.

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 ÂŁ or more on food and is WBMJE GSPN TU 'FCSVBSZ UP UI 'FCSVBSZ FYDMVEJOH 4VOEBZ OPPO o QN BOE UI 'FCSVBSZ . The EJTDPVOU does not apply to spend on drinks or for group bookings of eight or more. To receive your coupon for 50% OFF food purchases, 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. "MUFSOBUJWFMZ MPH PO UP XXX FTQNBH DP VL PGGFST BOE DMJDL PO UIF 3BNCMFXPPE PGGFS BOE QSJOU PVU ZPVS WPVDIFS

TEXT HOTLINE 07762 147679 For even more news and events, check out our website

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Half Price Food for the Kids

Industrial & Commercial Cleaners

If the the words ‘half term’ give you a shiver here’s an opportunity to enjoy a night out and keep the kids occupied.

Kids eat for half price on Wednesday February 14 and Friday February 16 in either restaurant at Peterboorugh Greyhounds plus Stripey Wipey is also there to entertain them on the Wednesday.

He’ll be clowing around keeping them amused in between the races.

To book call 01733 296939.

01733 340020

We provide the best services at the best prices. • Twenty-six years of providing first class commercial cleaning services to local companies.

• We specialise in office cleaning, factories, pubs, clubs and shops and can provide totally environmentally friendly materials.

Contact Graham to arrange a quotation.

E-mail: Info@KrystalKlene.com / Visit: www.krystalklene.com www.espmag.co.uk

19

40

years of

When you’re listing some of the best things about Peterborough we’re pretty sure Nene Park is right up there.

A

Photos: Chris Brudenell and Emma Bothamley

huge number of visitors make use of it and love stepping out into a fantastic piece of countryside right on our doorstep that’s perfect for whether you want to cycle, run, walk, play, get on the water, enjoy wildlife, or just relax over a cup of coffee enjoying the views over the lake.

We’re lucky to have it and it’s reassuring to know the Trust that manages the newly branded Nene Park has set out plans for the next 10 years to make it even better.

Nene Park is another part of Peterborough that’s celebrating a special anniversary this year – 40 years in fact – and you can bet they’ll be celebrating big style this summer!

As part of the new plans they’ve put together there’s plenty to look forward to. It’s hoped an application for funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund will be successful to support improvements such as the replacement of the Pontoon Bridge at Ferry Meadows, they plan to increase the activities at Lakeside to include outdoor climbing challenges and to provide an indoor active adventure centre. Other plans include a new boardwalk alongside the river in Bluebell Wood and a variety of new facilities.

ESP caught up with Matthew Bradbury, Chief Executive of Nene Park Trust to find out more.

20 www.espmag.co.uk

“Our visitors can expect to see a number of infrastructure changes in the Park over the next 10 years,” said Matthew, “whether that’s the refurbishment of our existing toilet blocks or potentially even a new visitor hub at Thorpe Meadows or the Rural Estate.

“We’ll also be establishing a ‘Friends of Nene Park’ group to help support our growth over the coming years, and are generally aiming to take more of an outward-looking approach to our work around Peterborough. But we also want to get the local general public involved in the management of the Park, develop more cycle, running and walking routes across the full extent of Nene Park and increase the level of public access to the Rural Estate – a huge area which is currently untapped (but beautiful)!”

As well as being a great outdoor space for activities Nene Park is also great for events and Matthew tells us they aim to add more.

“

We’re hoping that over the next 10 years we’ll be able to introduce more events to utilise the full extent of the Park...

”

“We’re hoping that over the next 10 years we’ll be able to introduce more

events to utilise the full extent of the Park, potentially even exploring an annual ‘Proms in the Park’ style event.”

The charity EACH is already preparing to hold an outdoor cinema screening on Saturday April 28 of the musical Mama Mia, with a live band to entertain until the film begins.

Peterborough is forecast a huge population increase over the next 25 years and Matthew’s aware they need to be prepared to cope to ensure everyone can enjoy the Park.

“On a hot summer’s day, we’re now at the stage where Ferry Meadows is pretty much at capacity with the number of visitors we see coming to enjoy the Park. Our 10-year Strategy is about extending those visits across the entire Park – and while our survey showed that people are generally aware of Thorpe Meadows and Orton Mere, areas such as Woodston Reach and the Rural Estate are not as well-known by our visitors. Within our Strategy there are clear plans for how we hope to extend and improve the visitor experience at those sites, but we’d encourage our visitors to explore a new area next time they visit the Park to see just what’s on offer! Our website and Information Centre and Gift Shop can provide ideas on ways to enjoy the wider Nene Park.”

Take a look at Nene Park’s new website due to launch this month and get ready for an exciting new era at our amazing country space!

The Fayre Spot pub at The Cresset in Bretton reopens this month after a £250,000 refurbishment.

Citizen Smith will be helping customers celebrate the great new look and layout

W

ell known as a live music venue it’s no surprise they’ll be throwing a big party with Citizen Smith helping customers celebrate the great new look and layout on Saturday February 10.

Over the last 25 years The Fayre Spot has been a thriving

community pub, as well as being popular “It’s open 365 days a year, and from 9am with customers attending events within The Monday to Saturday, with a great food and Cresset. ESP dropped by for a sneaky peek coffee offer as well as a bar. This behind the scenes while the huge refurbishment will certainly be appreciated by transformation was underway and we can’t the customers, and we look forward to wait to see the end result. welcoming new visitors as well.”

Everything is now on one level with In the meantime you can still enjoy gorgeous wood panelling and new decor, drinks and entertainment in their pop up there’s a better designed bar area, new pub inside Studio 2 at the Cresset. seating and increased capacity for drinkers Look out for the latest on the new look and diners.

Fayre Spot on our website Sports fans will be catered for with a www.espmag.co.uk and social media once larger big screen, pool table and new darts it’s reopened. board. There’s an area for live music and dancing and last but certainly not least… lovely new loos!

Penny Hansen from the Cresset told ESP – “We’re delighted to be able to invest in The Fayre Spot this year as part of our ongoing improvement plans. The pub forms such an important part of The Cresset, and the local community, that it’s really exciting to be able to carry out a full refurbishment and really Mood board giving a feel of the colours that will be used bring it up to date.

The Ploughman

Civic Award for Community Involvement 2017

Staniland Way, Werrington Tel: 01733 327696

Stripped right back to a bare shell before the refurbishment started

• 10 Real Ales from £2.00 per pint • Real Ciders • 17+ gins from menu February 2018 Bands - Fri 2nd – Mighty Persuaders - Sat 3rd – Tiger Club - Fri 9th – Desperate Measures - Fri 16th – Jimmy Doherty solo acoustic - Sat 17th – Tumbling Dice - Fri 23rd – Loose Rocket - Sat 24th – Carpark Rendezvous - Fri 2nd Mar – Children of the Revolution - Sat 3rd Mar – Dirty Rumour

Blue Bell Inn D O G S T H O R P E

One of Peterborough oldest Pubs we offer a warm welcome in lovely surroundings.

Large screen TV and BT/Sky Sports

February Entertainment

Sunday Lunch

3rd – Grand Slam Glitz 10th – Cuban and Cognac 17th – RPM 24th – Circa 73

with our new Chef from 12-4pm Adults £6.95 Children £4.95 Desserts from £2.95

FOOD SERVED DAILY

Sunday carvery – all welcome

Beef, pork, turkey and local veg

from only

£4.95

• Real ales • Live music • Good food • Function room hire • Wedding parties • Membership available

February Live Music

1st 2nd 3rd 10th

Dave Smith (Austin Gold) Big W Disco Roadshow The Contact Stealer / Houndogs are playing upstairs ticket price is £10 17th Third Stone from the Sun 24th The Intruders

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

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

Tel 01733 313700

y a D s ’ e Valentin Dating Dating advice…

Single? It’s time to mingle at the Greyhound Stadium…

My pet peeve is filtered photos. For a while I was using dating apps and soon become tired of meeting up with people that ended up looking nothing like their profile pictures. For that reason and Mikey Clarke many more, I feel that chatting to people face-to-face is always the better option.

They can’t edit how they look and they can’t spend minutes thinking of a response that makes them more witty and funnier… basically, you’re seeing the real them.

That is a good thing.

If you too are becoming tired of online dating, why not get yourself to the Greyhound Stadium on Valentine’s Day. Like all eateries, the Stadium have a fantastic selection of meals for the loved-up couples. But what about the singletons? Well, they’re also running a singles night with a twist! You can enjoy the racing with speed dating in between.

It’s only £5 entry fee, which is a small price to pay for potentially finding ‘the one’. To register you place and to find out more, contact the event organiser (Hannah) at hannah@peterboroughgreyhounds.com.

Mikey Clarke 22 www.espmag.co.uk

Whether it’s at the Greyhound Stadium or many of the other local hotspots, there’s inevitably going to be hundreds of dates taking place across the city on Valentine’s Day. We asked a few locals for their best dating advice. It may be best to take some responses with a pinch of salt...

Pep Cipriano, ESP’s Man about Town: "If you're wondering what she'll look like in 20 years’ time, date her mother first."

Laura Bailey, Miss Peterborough: “Be yourself! ladies, don’t overdo your hair and make-up, meaning you don’t feel like yourself. You will feel more comfortable and less nervous!”

Mikey Clarke, ESP writer and Radio Peterborough Presenter: “Act surprised when your date is telling you about themselves.

You don’t want them

knowing you were Facebook stalking them just hours prior.”

Louis Smith MBE, Olympic Gymnast and Strictly Winner: “Brush your teeth, clean under your fingernails and look after your footwear.

These are the three things I’m personally looking at when I see a girl.”

Sarah Tempest, ESP writer and former Hereward FM Presenter: “My first date with Alex was actually my first date in 10 years (I’d been in a long relationship!) and I was shi… erm… nervous! On the radio I asked for dating advice from the listeners and the one that stuck with me was “be sexy- and CLEAN!” So, I dutifully had a bath (!), put me best undies on and wore something low cut! It must have worked ‘cause we celebrated our 10th wedding anniversary recently.”

Marc Hernandez, ESP writer: “If it’s a rainy day, don’t go on a date to an owl sanctuary as it’ll be too-wet-to-woo.”

www.espmag.co.uk

Classical

Reflection Since then they’ve released two albums, their second album last year was a huge success and was featured on Classic FM and many BBC radio stations.

So what do these talented girls hope to achieve in 2018?

“That's a very good question. We achieved quite a few of our goals last year with The Royal Albert Hall, number 3 in the album charts and being played on Classic FM. Of course we would love to go back to The Royal Albert Hall.

“Our biggest dream is to sing with Andrea Bocelli – not sure if we will achieve that one this year but maybe one day, who knows?”

Classical Reflection’s Spring Concert is being held at The Marriott Hotel in Peterborough on Sunday March 18 at 7.30pm.

We love all sorts of music at ESP and can promise you this is a really lovely evening, the girls really do have beautiful voices.

“

We always look forward to concerts in our home town,...

Last year was a hugely successful one for our favourite soprano twins Classical Reflection and saw the girls round off 2017 starring at The Royal Albert Hall in Christmas With the Stars and Sunday at the Musicals in Covent Garden.

Peterborough soprano twins Naomi and Hannah Moxon have just announced their next concert in the city at The Marriott Hotel but are still overwhelmed by last year’s success.

“Singing at The Royal Albert Hall was a dream of ours so we were so excited to be part of the show, a truly amazing evening. It was definitely one of our highlights of 2017.”

Naomi and Hannah wowed ESP and audiences three years ago after appearing on BBC’s The Voice. “The Voice was very important to us as it gave us a platform and that was enough for us to build on. It was a great experience.”

24 www.espmag.co.uk

”

It’ll feature songs from their Classical Chart hit album, Echo with some new songs from West End musicals mixed with some classical crossover hits such as You Raise Me Up. The girls will also have a fantastic line-up of guests including world renowned violinist and conductor, Steve Bingham who was a huge hit at their album launch concert last year at the cathedral.

“We always look forward to concerts in our home town,” Hannah and Naomi told ESP. “It's lovely to see so many familiar faces and great to meet for a chat afterwards.”

Tickets are £15 and can be purchased from www.classicalreflection.co.uk or Peterborough Visitor Information Centre, Bridge Steet, Peterborough or call 01733 452336.

The LowDown on new film festival for Peterborough…

Exciting news for city film fans – a new unique, one-of-a-kind festival is coming to the city this September.

Sid and Nancy

Punk & New Wave Exhibition Tour To Visit Peterborough Peterborough’s MINI showroom is getting ready to rock a new look as the UK’s largest Punk & New Wave exhibition takes over and turns it into an art gallery early next month.

An extensive UK tour of incredible photographs is heading our way as The Fine Art Of Punk & New Wave exhibition hits the road with the largest tour of its kind.

The Peterborough Sycamore MINI showroom on Papyrus Road will be transformed into a stunning art gallery for one night only on Friday March 2.

Boomtown Rats It’s being brought to us by music exhibition specialists Off Beat Lounge and features the work of New Musical Express (NME) photographers Chalkie Davies & Denis O’Regan creating a definitive visual record of the period.

1977 saw the full punk explosion, with debut albums from The Damned, The Clash, The Sex Pistols, The Jam & Elvis Costello to name but a few. Blondie, The Ramones and Iggy Pop arrived from America and the 1970s ended with a bang!

This one-night-only event, with either Denis O’Regan or Chalkie Davies in attendance for VIP ticket-holder-only Q&A sessions, will take you back to arguably the most rebellious period ever seen in the music business.

It runs from 7.30pm to 9pm for standard admission tickets, with VIP ticket holders gaining access from 6.30pm for a Question and Answer session and private viewing.

Tickets available at: www.offbeatlounge.co.uk/artofpunk

"The LowDown team are very excited to be creating an event that promotes independent filmmakers and their films, and offers family entertainment whilst giving the opportunity to learn from professionals in our unique panels and workshops,” explains organiser Richard Stephens.

“We are doing this to indulge our passion in film and encourage a new generation to pick up cameras and explore their creativity."

Richard hosts the Film and TV Show on Hereward Radio and will be bringing you interviews and news from the LowDown Film Festival on his radio show and podcast.

This celebration of film and filmmaking will see dedicated areas for each category, with the winner of each going into a grand final and receiving an award. There’ll be plenty of activities for the general public, but you also get to vote on the films as well as interact with professionals. Expect aspects of Comic Conventions with props and much more.

There’ll be a few select traders sharing their film inspired wares as well as plenty of different panels and workshops from industry professionals running all weekend.

ESP will bring you more details so watch this space and if you’d like to get involved email richard@lowdownfilmfestival.co.uk.

To find out more go to: www.lowdownfilmfestival.co.uk. www.facebook.com/groups/LowDownFF/ www.facebook.com/LowDownFF/

Wedding Show comes to Peterborough If this headline has caught your eye as a recently engaged person, congratulations! Here at ESP we’d like to raise a glass to you and your happy fiancé, and immediately proffer our sympathy to you and the overwhelming choices you’ve got ahead of you. Cakes, dresses, venues, invites, flowers… where to start?!

Cupids Wedding Show lands at the Peterborough Arena on Sunday February 18 and could be a great time to get cracking. The event is packed with inspirational ideas for every wedding, no matter what

stage you’re at.

There’ll be stunning fashion shows, over 70 stands, goody bags for the first 250 brides, a complimentary glass of bubbly for all visitors, a free prize draw for every bride and groom and a free glossy wedding directory for every bride.

The website is teeming with top tips for visitors, as well as the ticket portal, so make sure you click onto www.cupidsweddingshows.com to find out more.

Dom Edge

www.espmag.co.uk

25

paparazzi Caught in the act?

Straw Bear Festival

Thousands tuned out to follow the bear once again as Whittlesey celebrated last month with its huge winter party – the 39th Straw Bear Festival!

There was a great atmosphere and as usual the pubs were packed and the streets were full of dance groups, musicians and of course the straw bear himself doing the rounds in the town parade.

It’s always a chilly one but a good one and our guy capturing the action was Chris Brudenell.

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

26 www.espmag.co.uk

www.espmag.co.uk

27

You might not have realised but you’ve most likely heard more of Julia Michaels’ music than you think.

OK, so you’ve sung along with her on Clean Bandit’s hit single I Miss You, and her own multiplatinumselling debut single Issues last year, but she’s a prolific hit songwriter for dozens of leading artists.

“

She’s one of pop music’s most in-demand songwriters, co-writing a string of hits...

”

She’s one of pop music’s most indemand songwriters, co-writing a string of hits alongside Justin Tranter including smashes like Justin Bieber’s Sorry, Close by Nick Jonas ft. Tove Lo, Selena Gomez’s hit Good for You [feat. A$AP Rocky] and Hands To Myself, Hailee Steinfeld’s Love Myself, Britney Spears’ Slumber Party, Gwen Stefani’s track Used To Love You and, most recently, Selena Gomez’s Bad Liar, Ed Sheeran’s Dive, and John Legend’s Surefire. The cumulative worldwide stream count for songs Julia Michaels has co-written exceeds 10 billion to date!

Julia has a clear mission when she writes songs for other artists.

n o i h s a F

....News

Fashion fans who’ve missed having two of their favourite brands available in Peterborough city centre will be pleased to hear that Dorothy Perkins and Burtons are back!

T

he popular high street names, once part of BHS in Queensgate, have returned and are now available inside Beales department store on Westgate.

Jo Burbage who’ll be managing the new concessions in store told ESP – “We’re really excited to have these two brand new fashion brands in Beales.

“If you're in search of quality clothing combined with the best value prices, look no further.

“You'll find plenty of brand new styles ready for the coming season, along with all your favourite wardrobe staples.”

You can check out the latest fashion collections at Beales of Peterborough, in-store now.

28 www.espmag.co.uk

“I want people to hear that men are emotional, and that women are strong,” is how she explains it. “I try to give men vulnerability, and women power.

“I'm the epitome of emotional,” she laughs. “I'm the worst. I pick fights sometimes because they’ll make for good lyrical content, I cry a lot, and then I write everything down. I'm just a wreck. A very big wreck. But I'm proud of this wreck. I embrace the wreckage.”

When it came to her song Issues which was originally intended to be delivered to another artist, Julia felt compelled to hang onto it, which took her by surprise as before it was written she had no intention of launching a solo career. “I wasn’t considering being an artist until I wrote this song,” she explains. “I’ve always been the person who made themselves invisible and let others be the shining light, but Issues changed a lot of things for me. It took this song to make me realise that this is who I am, and that I've spent a long time suppressing it.”

Continuing the success of 2017 she has two songs on the upcoming Fifty Shades Freed soundtrack, to be released February 9 and is then heading to the UK this spring, supporting Niall Horan on the European leg of his Flicker world tour in March.

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Movie Previews

Cast: Chadwick Boseman, Michael B Jordan, Martin Freeman Director: Ryan Coogler

The anticipation is off the chart for Chadwick Boseman’s first solo outing as the pantheroutfitted superhero – from acclaimed Creed director Ryan Coogler.

Pre-sales have been through the roof Stateside which points to this becoming Marvel’s Released biggest-ever inaugural superhero movie – as Boseman builds on his supporting role in Captain America: Civil War two years ago.

After the death of his father, King T’Challa (Boseman) returns home to the reclusive, technologically-advanced African nation of Wakanda to serve as his country’s new leader.

But he’s soon challenged to the throne by factions in his own kingdom – led by Michael B Jordan’s (Creed) powerhungry Killmonger – which leads to the Black Panther teaming up with Martin Freeman’s CIA agent and his country’s special forces to prevent Wakanda from being dragged into a world war.

Oscar-winners Lupita Nyong’o (12 Years a Slave) and Forest Whitaker (The Last King of Scotland) join the ride, along with Get Out star Daniel Kaluuya, and the returning Andy Serkis as gangster Ulysses Klaue from Age of Ultron.

Under the guidance of Coogler this should easily claw its way to the top of Marvel’s superhero ladder…

FEB

13

Released

Cast: Dakota Johnson, Jamie Dornan, Kim Basinger Director: James Foley

FEB

9

One film that was never really looking to get in on the awards season is this final part of the Fifty Shades of Grey trilogy – because it knows exactly what it is.

Believing they have left the shadowy figures from their past behind, newlyweds Christian (Dornan) and Ana (Johnson) fully embrace their life of luxury – as well as their particular sexual inclinations.

But just as she steps into her new role of Mrs Grey and he relaxes into unfamiliar stability – new threats could jeopardise their happy ending before it ever begins.

Expect a bumper opening weekend at the box office and a steep rise in hotel bookings…

30 www.espmag.co.uk

All release dates are correct at the time of going to press.

FIFTY SHADES FREED

It’s movie awards season, so this page is heavily-dominated by some of the main contenders released at Peterborough’s Showcase Cinema de Lux this month…

OUT

EARLY MAN

Released

FEB

2

PHANTOM THREAD

NOW

Oscar-winning Aardman creator Nick Park – the man behind the likes of Wallace & Gromit, Shaun the Sheep and Chicken Run – directs another heavily Britishinspired stop-motion captured animation with this prehistoric story of Dug (Eddie Redmayne) and his wild hog sidekick, who battle the evil Lord Nooth (Tom Hiddleston) to try and save their home.

The latest collaboration between acclaimed filmmaker Paul Thomas Anderson (nominated for Best Director) and multitime Oscar-winner Daniel Day-Lewis (nominated for Best Actor), sees the latter star as a renowned dressmaker in 1950s London. Lesley Manville has also been nominated for Best Actress in this drama, Released FEB which boasts six noms.

DEN OF THIEVES

ROMAN J ISRAEL, ESQ

Gerard Butler headlines this gritty crime actioner – that didn’t, ahem, receive any award nominations. It follows the lives of an elite unit of LA County Sheriff’s Dept and the state’s most successful bank robbery crew – which includes Curtis ‘50 Cent’ Jackson and Straight Outta Compton’s O’Shea Jackson Jr – as the outlaws plan a seemingly impossible heist.

Released

FEB

2

Released

WINCHESTER

FEB

Released Academy Award-winning director Clint FEB Eastwood (Million Dollar Baby and Unforgiven) helms this based-on-trueevents drama which saw three off-duty American Marines uncover a terrorist plot on a Paris-bound train in 2015. The story chronicles their past leading up to the harrowing ordeal in which they saved the lives of more than 500 passengers on board.

Oscar-winner Helen Mirren changes it up with this biographical horror – starring as an eccentric firearms heiress who believes she’s haunted by the souls of people killed by the Winchester repeating rifle. Mirren’s Sarah Winchester constructed a home on an isolated stretch of land outside of San Francisco, that went on to become the most haunted house in the world.

Released

FEB

9

9

Released

FEB

Another biographical drama is based on the disastrous attempt by amateur sailor Donald Crowhurst (Oscar-winner Colin Firth) to complete the Sunday Times Golden Globe Race in 1968 – and his subsequent attempts to cover-up his failure via an outrageous account of travelling the world alone by sea. Fellow Oscar-winner Rachel Weisz stars as his wife, Clare.

Perennial Oscar-nominee Denzel Washington – who has won gongs for Training Day and Glory – has garnered another nod with this title character turn as an idealistic defence attorney, who finds himself in a crisis after a tumultuous series of events. Colin Farrell co-stars as the cutthroat lawyer who recruits Washington’s Roman to his firm in this dramatic thriller.

THE 15:17 TO PARIS

2

THE MERCY

14

THE SHAPE OF WATER

Guillermo del Toro’s Oscar front-runner has notched an amazing 13 nominations and is arguably just about favourite for Best Film ahead of the sensational Three Billboards. At a top-secret research facility in the 50s, a lonely janitor (Best Actress nominee Sally Hawkins) forms a unique relationship with an amphibious creature (Hellboy's Doug Jones) that is being held in captivity.

Released

LADY BIRD

FEB

16

Academy Award Best Actress nominee Saoirse Ronan (Brooklyn) puts in a stellar performance as an artistically-inclined high school senior from the ‘wrong side of the tracks’ in this coming-of-age comedy-drama set in Sacramento, California. Iconic Roseanne star Laurie Metcalf has deservedly received a Best Supporting Actress nod as her long-suffering mother.

2

Released

I, TONYA

FEB

23

Suicide Squad’s Margot Robbie stars as legendary ice skater Tonya Harding – who famously had her rival Nancy Kerrigan attacked – and garners an Oscar nod to boot.

But it’s actually Alison Janney, who portrays her hardline mother, who’s a bigger favourite in the Best Supporting Actress category, while Michael Shannon stars as her abusive husband in this biopic.

www.espmag.co.uk

31

Green and Great CITY’S ENVIRONMENT HEROES CELEBRATE 25 YEARS

It’s going to be a fantastic year of anniversaries and celebrations in Peterborough this year and PECT is among those with something to shout about as the environmental charity celebrates 25 years.

“Globally we are using resources at an unsustainable rate,” explains PECT’s CEO Carly Leonard. “This means that we are emitting more carbon than the oceans and forests can absorb, we are catching more fish, felling more trees, harvesting more, and consuming more water than the Earth is able to produce in the same period.

“Things need to change to protect our natural environment and enjoy a better quality of life for ourselves, our families and future generations,” adds Carly. “We’re calling for people to get involved with our work to enable us to make an even bigger difference.”

History 2008 - Get a Green Grip

“Things need to change to protect our natural environment and enjoy a better quality of life for ourselves, our families and future generations...”

The Green Wheel

T

his major milestone will see various events taking place throughout the year including the annual Green Festival in August which moves to Nene Park, a giant bring and share picnic event, eco film screenings a mass litter pick event and even more trees planted as part of the Forest for Peterborough initiative.

ESP has been pleased to support PECT’s great green campaigns and events over the years and it’s hard to believe it was way back in 1993 that the charity was launched to house the city’s environmental ambitions.

PECT was set up as Peterborough Environment City Trust after Peterborough’s designation in 1992 as one of four UK Environment Cities – along with Leeds, Leicester and Middlesbrough – after a nationwide competition run by BT that the city entered back in 1991.

Just a snapshot of some of the charity’s key achievements include opening the city’s fantastic Green Wheel cycle route in 2000, 32 www.espmag.co.uk

Photo: Neil Barker

So, to mark its silver anniversary, the charity wants even more of us to play our part locally and get involved with its work.

You could become a PECT volunteer, donate online, or take a look at the website for their top 25 tips to become greener in 2018!

100,000th tree planting

History 2015 - Werrington Brook History 2010 - Eco Education Awards running environmental education in 97% of the city’s schools, launching the national green accreditation scheme for businesses Investors in the Environment and to date planting 100,000 trees in Peterborough. Not bad eh?

PECT has been an independently funded charity since 2012, delivering groundbreaking and innovative projects of local, regional and national significance, and enabling change for a more sustainable future.

Aim to get greener this year, head to www.pect.org.uk and sign up for their e-newsletter. You can also share your green pledges with #PECT25 on social media. For more information call 01733 568408.

EXCLUSIVE OFFER* THE PETERBOROUGH BISCUIT IS BACK BIGGER AND BETTER THAN EVER 7th February 2018 | The East of England Arena & Events Centre

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The Peterborough Biscuit is the ground breaking business event that has taken our area by storm, only starting in February of this year we experienced a phenomenal 130 exhibitors and over 1000 visitors attending the event, with impeccable reviews from both visitors and exhibitors.

The Biscuit is back with a bang and is shaping up to be a colossal event it is no longer a business event but a business festival, with up to 370 business in attendance and a forecast of 3000+ visitors, 2018 sees the introduction of a retail area, which you can buy an outfit or

your dinner for that night.

Entertainment in the form of reaction tests, driving simulators and a new mystery game. Live singers will be at the event providing some soft music in order to conduct your business in style and elegance.

Our main focus for 2018 is to build the brand and be seen as THE professional staple in the Peterborough Business Calendar.

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Move Over

Ben Affleck!

After

Before

ESP – Why did you decide to lose weight and what gave you the motivation?

Chris – “I’ve tried a few diet plans over the years and nothing seemed to keep my interest. I’ve got a big birthday next year (40) and decided that I’d run out of excuses as to why I couldn’t get on with it. I had to break the ‘unhappy because I eat, eat because I’m unhappy’ downward spiral. That was the first challenge.”

How have you gone about it?

“Eat less, move more has been my mantra for the last six months. Reducing my food portions and the amount of junk combined with the exercise has really helped!”

Chris and running mentor Carly, October 2017

Last year one of our fine ESP photographers did something I thought he’d never do – he ran.

I’d never seen Chris Brudenell run or even jog for that matter, so you can imagine how pleased I was for him when he told me he was going to enter the Anna’s Hope Fun Run, which is part of the Perkins Great Eastern Run. I was at the race and wasn’t prepared for what I saw. Not only did Chris breeze the distance but he ran it dressed as Batman! Accompanied by his running mentor Robin (Carly Vine), the superhero duo were the talk of the fun run.

I thought, that’s it, he’s itched his scratch and fully expected Chris to hang up his trainers and bat costume, but no. He’s now going to attempt the 34 www.espmag.co.uk

half marathon – his first – and as Batman once again.

Now this is serious territory and I’ve never known Chris as a serious type of guy. But running has given him such motivation, more purpose, additional drive and above all a lot of confidence. And why? He’s managed to shed six stones in the process.

Loosing that much weight is life changing and I’ve definitely seen a change in Chris that’s put a spring in his step. Needless to say, we’re all proud of him. He’s shown grit and determination, but above all he found motivation and that’s the hardest aspect we all need to discover before embarking on a challenge.

Well done Chris. Next stop Hollywood? The next Batman movie has your name all over it!

Pep Cipriano

What made you start running and how hard was it?

“I joined the local Man v Fat footy league and it was that, that really changed things for me. My first game I went down and realised how out of shape I really was! I struggled to keep up with the pace of the game.

“The following day I asked my friend Carly Vine who’s a fitness instructor to help me practice running. We started with 30 seconds jogging, 1 minute walking and went from there. Pushing ourselves a little bit further every time we went out we soon found ourselves at 5k.”

A running buddy has made a big difference – Chris with mentor Carly Vine

You did the 5k fun run – but it's a big leap to do the PGER half marathon, how are you preparing?

“The half is going to be a massive challenge! I’m currently at 10km and we aim to add 400m every week until we get to the distance required. I’m currently doing one long run a week, two small runs, swimming coupled with a weight program to increase my core strength.”

Any tips for other people?

“Don’t do too much too soon would be my best advice – I did and pulled a muscle which was hugely frustrating.

“Man v Fat (www.manvfatfootball.org/peterborough) has been fantastic for me. It was great to know that I wasn’t alone and we often shared stories and frustrations about our weight loss. A fitness buddy is great too – without that support from Carly I would have just given up a long time ago.

“I’m very lucky to have the love and support of my wife and children who just want me to achieve my goals. I want to be around for them for as long as possible! I was 23stone when I started running – I’d like to think if I can do it at that weight then anyone can give it a go.”

“

Chris can now wear his favourite footy shirt again

Eat less, move more has been my mantra for the last six months...

”

Last year’s Perkins Great Eastern Run attracted its biggest ever turn-out and over 1,600 have already signed up for the 2018 event.

It all takes place on Sunday October 14 in Peterborough and if you’d like to take the plunge like Chris by running the half marathon or joining the 5k fun run, you can register your interest now on www.perkinsgreateasternrun.co.uk.

www.espmag.co.uk

35

HEALTH

Proudly sponsored by

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

rachael.church@espmag.co.uk

Celebrity hair and makeup artist

Making your lips Beauty News kissable on Valentine’s Day

I was interested to read the most liked beauty product on YouTube 2017! And I wanted to find out more about it…

Whether you’ve got a hot date planned or just a night on the town looking for Mr Right, after a long cold winter we all need to give our lips some TLC. There are tons of lip balms on the market, but these are the three I would recommend, all available at local stores.

The cheap and cheerful Born Lippy Pot Lip Stick Balm – Pomegranate £1.50 I’m a big fan of The Body Shop, and couldn’t resist this cheeky looking lip balm which is currently on sale. It’s pomegranate scented, which leaves lips feeling hydrated and nourished. Even better, the sheer red tint will give lips a pretty flash of colour, so no lipstick required!

A sweet treat Dr Organic Manuka Honey Lip Balm £3.79 I love honey so enjoyed trying this one! Holland and Barrett do a great selection of lip balm. This one caught my eye due to the inclusion of Manuka, which has a host of properties. This New Zealand oil has natural bioactive properties to help and hydrate the lips.

Top quality luxury Estée Lauder Lip Conditioner - £17.50 OK, so a lot of money to spend on a lip balm – but Estée Lauder has a reputation for innovation, sophistication and superior quality, and this lip balm is no different.

Splash out extra for a balm that contains Vitamins C and E, Shea Butter and other naturally derived moisturisers. John Lewis stocks Estée Lauder so check it out.

Top tip for lip balms: Apply under lipstick as a moisturising base coat, or wear it overnight as an intensive moisture treatment.

It was – drum roll… a Lasting Perfection Concealer by COLLECTION, receiving a huge 1,074,459 likes.

Ten of the Lasting Perfection Concealers are sold every 60 seconds in the UK alone. It creates a flawless base with buildable coverage that is completely water-resistant and transferproof.

COLLECTION and celebrity make-up artist Francesca Neil says – “The Lasting Perfection Concealer is a staple in my kit! The formula of the product allows you to create a natural flawless contour which is easy

to apply using the concealer brush. I also use the products to contour – I start by using the darker shade on the areas I want to define and the lighter shades to highlight.

The creamy formula makes it super easy to blend the shades seamlessly, creating natural contour effect.”

The COLLECTION Lasting Perfection Concealers are priced £4.19 and the new shades are now in Boots and Superdrug. And I was at the front of the queue! Time to see what all the hype is about…. And maybe I will go on YouTube and ‘like’ it on there too.

Race for Life – Kids take centre stage In very exciting news, local boys and girls are being invited to get muddy for a good cause – at a brand new event from Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life.

Stamford has been chosen to host Race for Life Pretty Muddy Kids for the first time at Burghley Estate on Saturday June 2.

Pretty Muddy Kids is a new exciting obstacle course designed just for children – with added mud, thrills and spills.

From scramble nets and space hoppers to mud chutes and muddy pools, children will face a range of fun and muddy obstacles to crawl under, clamber over and charge through.

The Race for Life family of events also includes the traditional 5k, 10k and Pretty Muddy courses, which thousands of women will take part in at the same venue on Saturday June 2 and Sunday June 3. Last year our self-confessed ‘unfit’ Editor

Sharon gave it a go for the first time and says it’s a great fun event whatever your age and whether you walk or run… as long as you’re up for getting muddy!

What a great idea CRUK! By taking part in Pretty Muddy Kids, children in and around Stamford can have fun with friends and help raise valuable funds to beat cancer sooner at the same time.

Megan Bailey, Cancer Research UK’s Stamford Event Manager, said: “We can’t wait to bring Race for Life Pretty Muddy Kids to Stamford for the very first time. The obstacle course promises plenty of fun, thrills and spills and we hope children will rally their friends, family and schoolmates to sign up and make a splash for Cancer Research UK.” Here at ESP, we can’t wait to be involved with the fun… you might even see our Editor back on the course again!

Specialist in hair and makeup for all occasions, working with national press and TV.

Tel: 07801 987905 www.andreaconnor.co.uk

36 www.espmag.co.uk

Get Glowing With A FREE Chemical Peel @ MBE

If you’re skin’s taken a battering in the chilly weather perhaps it’s time to unveil a fresh new complexion for the spring.

N

ext month at My Body Essentials you can try a chemical peel for free and really get your skin glowing at this special event.

Healthy eating and drinking plenty of water should bring a ‘glow that will show’, but following the festive indulgence and with harsh winter weather you may need a

Clinical Designer Peels Open Day 7th March 2018 Pre-book your Free Peel

little extra help. For a brighter and revitalised complexion a chemical facial peel not only shifts a tired, dull surface layer but reveals fresher younger looking skin while providing essential ingredients that will correct and nourish at a deeper level for long term effects.

On March 7, Image Skincare specialist

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

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Charley Rumsey will be carrying out hour long sessions between 10am and 5pm at MBE. You’ll have a consultation followed by a free chemical peel providing essential ingredients that will correct and nourish your skin at a deeper level for long term effects.

Depending on your skin issue you will require a treatment plan of several peels for best effects.

Mary from MBE explains – “A chemical/resurfacing peel is a clinical procedure that removes the layers of damaged and dead surface skin. There are 4 levels which we do in stages, (usually 2 4 weeks apart with a max of 6 peels in any 12 month period) in order to maintain the health of skin rather than damage the lower live layers by going too strong too soon.”

There’s just a £5 booking fee for the chemical peel day and that’s redeemable on the purchase of one product recommended on the day. You will also receive a discount on any course booked on the day.

You can also pre-book a free Clarity Pro facial analysis/consultation on the day plus there’ll be a raffle to win specialist products.

You can take along a friend and there’ll be refreshments too so get booked in on 01733 234251. If you want gorgeous skin for a special occasion you’ll need, you’ll need to start treatments 2-3 months in advance. www.mybodyessentials.co.uk

Karen Devine’s

karen.devine@espmag.co.uk

Well Being

We’re now entering the last month of winter with the spring months moving ever closer to us, yet for many it can’t come soon enough.

A

s I wrote last month, winter is a time of inner conservation and not pushing ourselves too much. It’s about being kind to ourselves and making peace with those winter limitations. Winter will slowly make way for the newness of spring so dig deep and know that spring will arrive in no time.

For now, let’s be reminded of some of nature’s natural doctors and how we can work the principles into our lives, even during the winter months.

Fasting – today we eat far too much food and with too much complexity so giving ourselves and our gut time out of eating/drinking and using nature’s cure of century’s old fasting can make a difference.

Try to fast for 12 hours without food, working up to 16-18 hours, sleep is counted in these hours (phew!) so finishing a meal at 7pm and not eating until 7am is 12 hours. Many people I’ve worked with are not hungry first thing and prefer to just have water on rising. If that’s you then that’s more than OK, you can take the extra hour or so if needed. This is not about getting to a point of over hunger, but just listening and being intuitive about when you need to eat and not what society’s norms or times of day tell us.

Exercise – for many of us working out in the gym in the winter is the only option we have due to working hours meaning we’re not able to do much out in the fresh air. Gyms can never take the place of exercise outdoors which is bringing in the alkaline fresh air. However, doing something is ideal during winter, especially for getting the lymphatic system moving.

Winter will slowly make way for the newness of spring so dig deep and know that spring will arrive in no time.

38 www.espmag.co.uk

Saunas – ah my favourite in the winter, if you can get to a dry or steam sauna a few times weekly you’ll sweat out toxins and get your lymph system moving as well.

Sunlight – whilst we get very little in the winter it’s extremely important to get out into the sunshine when we do get it, whilst we cannot get our Vitamin D from the sun in the UK at this time it can still help lift your mood. So try to get out, even if just for 15 minutes in the garden – wrap up and feel the sun on your face.

lymph system moving as well.

Stretch – the old saying ‘you’re as old as your spine’ is referring to its flexibility which can help in the prevention of injuries. Try Yoga, Pilates or just get into the habit of 10 minute stretches each day.

Food – despite the need for more carbohydrates during the winter, we don’t have to stock up on mash, spuds and chips but can feel sated with root veggies instead. Eating some raw food during the day is also important so adding some fresh fruit, raw nuts/seeds and raw veggies from smoothies or salads is still important during the winter. If you feel the cold more you can add in some ginger/cayenne to a smoothie which will warm you up at the same time.

Water – the best type of water will always be found in raw fruits and raw veggies, but is much harder for us to get in the winter so a juice or a smoothie is a great way to get our natural water, and of course a few glasses of fresh, filtered water. Avoid in excess, I find that many people are drinking way to much water which can dilute minerals and overtax the kidneys. So strike the balance, our water needs will vary on lifestyle, diet and stress.

Body work – nothing beats a good deep massage, if you’ve been on a dry January and find the pennies just starting to recover from Christmas, treat yourself to a massage or other body therapy. Relaxation, de-stressing, lymph draining and toxin moving – what could be better?

Sleep – nothing beats snuggling under a cosy duvet during the winter. Sometimes it’s good to skip the morning gym sessions and get some extra sleep. Sleep is crucial for regenerating our body. Do not underestimate what is naturally ours.

Enjoy the last few weeks of winter and know that those new spring energies are just around the corner.

In health, Karen x www.karendevine.co.uk

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LocalEvents

Insatiable for inflatables?

828 Gravel Enduro Relay and Bike Show join the Tour of Cambridgeshire You may have resolved to get fitter this year, but why not put that new found fitness to a great use and enter a truly gruelling cycling challenge?

The Tour of Cambridgeshire has grown once again to incorporate a brand new event – the 828 Gravel Endurance Relay.

The event, which commences on Friday June 1 at 8pm, sees teams of four battle it out for 12 hours across a 4-mile mixed terrain circuit, and includes an indoor start and transition area.

There are five classifications to enter, including male, female, mixed, corporate and charity, so there’re really no excuses not to don that lycra and pull an allnighter!

The winning team has simply completed the most laps after the 12 hours. If two or more teams have completed the same number, electronic timing will come into the ruling.

Pumping music, avid fans and a real sense of adrenalin will ensure that there’s a party feel throughout the night.

Golazo Cycling Festival Director Jessica Lockhart said: “Our aim for the Tour of Cambridgeshire Festival is to bring diversity to the event; getting more people out on their bikes and having lots of options for people to come together and share their love for cycling.

40 www.espmag.co.uk

I’ve spent years scoffing at the telly at how easy the Total Wipeout course looks. Well, it now appears I’ll have the chance to put my money where my mouth is, as the Inflatable 5K comes to Peterborough on Saturday March 24.

The event, which takes place at the East of England Arena, will host one of the most exhilarating obstacle courses ever created. Expect to flip, bounce and boing your way around an incredibly fun course. There are a total of 10 giant obstacles to pit your wits against.

The event is also suitable for children, so register the whole family for a truly fun day out at www.youreventspace.co.uk.

Time for me to evacuate the city and avoid all embarrassment…

Dom Edge

“Our aim for the Tour of Cambridgeshire Festival is to bring diversity to the event...”

“We’re really excited to be bringing another brand-new element to the Tour of Cambridgeshire Festival 2018 and really can’t wait to see how each of these teams are going to do with this endurance relay.”

And that’s not all that’s new this year. Another new addition to the Tour of Cambridgeshire is a brand-new Cambridgeshire Bike Show (CBS). Led by Rutland Cycling this free event will see most of the big bike brands exhibiting at the show with plenty of new desirable bike stuff to view and buy. CBS will cater for those interested in the latest carbon and kit designed for speed but also for those with an interest in riding on gravel tracks and for families who want quality rides for the kids.

For more information or to book your place in the 828 Gravel Enduro Relay, visit www.tourofcambridgeshire.com.

Dom Edge

No Excuses to miss this!

If you’re feeling inspired to enter a cycle event this year, then rather handily UK Cycling Events brings its No Excuses Cambridgeshire to Peterborough.

Perhaps you picked up a new bike in the sales, want to get fit this year, or just simply enjoy riding in a large group. Well look no further than No Excuses, which allows riders the chance to execute their winter training regime on a lightly undulating course.

What’s more, everyone who enters the £40 Epic or Standard routes and turns up on the day will receive a full refund, so you’re essentially training for free! You really can see why the event is called No Excuses.

And if you don’t turn up? Well your entry fee gets donated to charity. Of course, riders can also donate their entry fee to charity too if they wish.

The sportive starts and finishes at the East of England Arena on Saturday February 24 and will follow the course of many local villages, so there’ll be plenty of views to take in along the way.

Buy your ticket today at www.youreventspace.co.uk/events/no-excusescambridgeshire-sportive/ Dom Edge

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

Comedy Festival Top Tips This month I’ll be taking a trip to Leicester Comedy Festival, one of the country’s biggest and best comedy festivals for discovering new talent. After running the festival’s judging panel in 2016 and 2017, I’ve put together some top tips for anyone who wants to visit this year.

Pay what you want You really don’t have to fork out a lot of money buying tickets, as for some shows the festival has a ‘pay what you want’ scheme where you can attend for free, but then pay what you think the show was worth at the end. General good practice is to leave at least £5 per show, but with the average comedy ticket being £20-30 at the bigger theatres, the festival makes it easy for fans to fit in 4-6 shows with the same amount of money. Plus, the pay what you want shows are often the best places to discover ‘the next big thing’, so I’d definitely recommend taking a risk by seeing something for free.

Know your venues Despite offering almost 70 venues this year, Leicester luckily has a handful of

hotspots which host comedy shows from midday to midnight during the festival.

Recommended venues include The Cookie, The Criterion, and Firebug, however The Exchange Bar and Manhattan 34 are also great places for both comedy and cocktails.

Plan ahead With most shows lasting an hour, Leicester Comedy Festival can be scheduled so that visitors enjoy as much comedy as possible by using certain time slots, e.g. 7pm, 8.15pm, 9.30pm.

By doing so this minimizes any last minute sprints to the next venue and prevents shows overlapping. To stay ahead of the game, it’s also good practice to follow the festival on Twitter or Facebook as this is often the best way of hearing about ticket discounts, last minute show announcements and soldout gigs.

Last Chance to Book I previewed it in last month’s issue but don’t forget it’s the Key Comedy Fest from March 8 – 11 with names like Shappi Korsandi, Ellie Taylor and Rob Kemp to name a few with some acts like Joe Lycett already sold out. Book your tickets now on 01733 207239.

For even more news and events, check out our website 42 www.espmag.co.uk

www.espmag.co.uk

Comedy

Gig Guide FEB

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Chris Ramsey Tours New Show at the Key Rising star Chris Ramsey will be bringing a brand new show to Peterborough this summer with his Just Happy to Get Out of the House tour.

Performing at the Key Theatre on Wednesday July 4, Chris is swiftly becoming one of the country’s most popular comedians thanks to his regular appearances on Celebrity Juice, along with starring in his own sitcom Hebburn back in 2012.

I wouldn’t be surprised if

his Peterborough show has sold out by the time this is published, and it would certainly be well deserved as he’s a top bloke – he even let me take a picture with him way back in 2011 after his brilliant show Offermation was nominated for an Edinburgh Comedy Award for the first time.

For any remaining tickets call 01733 207239.

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Headlining Spalding’s comedy club at the South Holland Centre this month will be Pete Teckman, winner of Leicester Comedy Festival’s Silver Stand Up of the Year competition in 2017.

Joining him will be Andrew Bird, who’s previously supported Rhod Gildbert on tour, alongside musical comedian Duncan Oakley.

Tickets available on 01775 764777.

VOODOO STANDS UP Taking place at one of the best venues in Stamford, the Voodoo Lounge will be welcoming former BGT semi-finalist Jonny Awsum to headline its popular comedy club.

He’ll be joined by one-liner merchant Mark Simmons, who was previously a runner-up in 2013’s Leicester Mercury Comedian of the Year competition.

Tickets available on 07595 412056.

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Sarah’s One to Watch:

Rachel Fairburn This month’s one to watch is Rachel Fairburn, a comedian obsessed with Oasis and one half of one of the most successful podcasts about serial killers...

Rachel Fairburn first started stand-up in 2007 and soon became noticed for her honest and hilarious material, which pokes fun at modern living, body image, and her own Northern roots. The following year she was a finalist in both the Funny Women and City Life North-West Comedian of the Year competitions, and she’s become a firm favourite on the comedy circuit scene ever since.

I first heard of Rachel through her popular podcast All Killa No Filla, which she hosts with fellow comedian Kiri Pritchard-McClean. Combining true life crime with comedic anecdotes and often off topic discussions, the podcast has won them an army of international fans and recently helped them to sell out shows in both London and Manchester.

Rachel Fairburn will be performing at this month’s Pint of Comedy Club at the Stamford Arts Centre on Friday February 16. Tickets available on 01780 763203.

FUNHOUSE COMEDY CLUB

RICH HALL’S HOEDOWN Join Rich Hall at the Stamford Corn Exchange for a no holds barred approach to modern US politics with great musicianship along the way.

Described as ‘blissfully funny’ by The Guardian, make sure you don’t miss out on this critically acclaimed country music comedy show.

Tickets available on 01780 766455.

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GRIFF RHYS JONES: WHERE AM I? Sharpen up your geography skills for an evening of stories, anecdotes and memories from the star of Not the Nine O’Clock News and Smith & Jones. Performing at The Cresset, this show combines forty years of travelling as Griff Rhys Jones muses on what he has learnt from his journeys in Africa, the Baltic, Australia, India and parts of Wales.

Tickets available on 01733 265705.

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CRESSET COMEDY CLUB Established way back in 1998, The Cresset’s Comedy Club is the longest-running in town, bringing you top-notch gags, puns and audience banter from the hottest new stars every month. Great laughs all round guaranteed!

Tickets £13 advance on 01733 265705 or £15 on the door.

www.espmag.co.uk

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POsh PAgE

Tel: 01733 380657 www.studio-one.co

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

My View on the Video

I

wanted to use this month’s column to give my opinion (and Barry Fry’s) on the latest discussion point in football – video referees. Otherwise known as VAR, this technology has divided opinion – it’s got the supporters talking and everyone seems to have a viewpoint.

Before I move on to Barry’s, I wanted to give my own personal opinion. I am all for moving with the times – other sports have made those strides comfortably from the third umpire in Cricket to the TMO in rugby – both are used well, but they deal in matter of fact instances.

Football is not as clear-cut. Goal-line technology is a no-brainer, it is black and white and every club stadium in the Premier League and the EFL should have that installed (and the authorities should pay for it).

When it comes to the use of VAR, there is quite a lot of risk. Take offside decisions for example. How many times do you see the flag go up and a player see the flag and lose concentration with their shot on goal – some don’t even bother shooting. If VAR was used to assess a decision that they

believe is borderline, surely that doesn’t help the player if the ball then doesn’t go in the back of the net?

Penalties are another bone of contention. In a recent televised game between Norwich City and Chelsea we witnessed Willian not be given a penalty when it appeared he had been clipped in the box. It was referred to VAR and another human then made a second error by agreeing with the initial official’s decision that it wasn’t a penalty.

Barry Fry

Trying to eradicate a human error by allowing another human to make the same error is surely not beneficial to the game? It is a fine balance. Yes it takes time, I get that, but how much time does it take to filter down to League One, the division that we operate in? We are only just seeing this technology trialled in cup fixtures.

Barry Fry agrees with me. The Director of Football told ESP: “I am all for video technology, but it has to be across the leagues, not just the Premier League. We have had goals chalked off for off-sides, we should have had penalties, if all of those decisions had gone to VAR, who knows where we would be in the league.

At Posh, there have been countless decisions that have gone against us. Could VAR have got us more points? Probably.

But we know how it works – it comes in at the top level because they can afford to install it – the resources are just not available at our level.

“We have to move with the times. Other sports have done so. It should come in across the professional leagues from the start of next season so that everybody knows where they stand and the same applies to goal-line technology. We have to help these officials,” Fry said.

“ Photos: theposh.com

I am all for video technology, but it has to be across the leagues, not just the Premier League.

”

So will it happen? Well my gut says no. The feeling I get is that it just doesn’t matter outside of the Premier League and that’s wrong. Change is good (if it works and applies to only certain decisions), but it has to be whole change, not just Premier change. Watch this space!

Phil Adlam

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

5 Station Road, Ailsworth, Peterborough, PE5 7AH

Posh groundsman takes to the skies Daniel Selcraig, Peterborough United’s head groundsman will be swapping the green, green grass of Posh for the blue, blue skies of the city when he takes part in a charity Sky Dive for Sue Ryder Thorpe Hall Hospice on Monday May 7.

D

aniel will be a familiar face to thousands of football fans on match days and was also responsible for ensuring the ABAX Stadium pitch was ready to accommodate the Elton John concert held last summer.

Speaking to ESP about his upcoming sky dive Daniel said: “I was devastated to hear that Sue Ryder at Thorpe Hall Hospice in Peterborough had their donation tin stolen off reception on Christmas Day 2017. How could someone stoop so low?

“I then learnt that the doors were only left open so that a grieving family could visit a relative that had sadly passed away.

“I decided that what better way to give something back to a remarkable charity than to throw myself out of a plane at 13,000 feet! I’ve never done a parachute jump before so I am slightly nervous but if I raise lots of money for them then it will all be worth it. I have personally paid for

the jump so every penny raised through fundraising will go straight to Sue Ryder.

The Sky Dive will take place on Monday 7th May 2018 at Sibson Airfield.”

Daniel’s set up a Just Giving page for anyone wishing to support his fundraising efforts at: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/sue ryderskydive2018 Everyone at ESP wishes Daniel all the very best for his sky dive and we look forward to seeing him back on the ground at Posh very soon.

Mark Hernandez

NIghTlife

Your guide to the night time scene

PETERBOROUgh sOUL COLLECTIVE Soul fans can get the month off to a great start as the Soul Colletcive crew return to the Tap Room at the Brewery Rap on Westgate.

Get yourselves down there and on the dancefloor on Friday February 2 from 8pm - Midnight with DJs Mick McKenna, Lady J, Ian Pass and Dill Gloster playing out the tunes.

BIg NIghT OUT @ ThE sOLsTICE If you’ve just got paid and can’t wait to shake off the January gloom get yourself down to The Solstice for their Big Night Out on Saturday February 3.

There’ll be four rooms of music with live percussion, guitars and sax as well as stilt walkers, fire breathers and loads more!

This night will also see the opening of the new R&B ‘Lit’ Room at the Northminster venue so don’t miss out.

Check out www.thesolstice.co.uk and their facebook page for more info.

The guys also tell us they’ll be celebrating St Patrick’s Day big style – more on that next month – and we can look forward to more of their famous World Cup Parties with their big outdoor big screen – bring on the summer!

LATMUN hEADLINEs MIXOLOgY hIP hOP KARAOKE A new night’s just launched as part of the Ligtbox café’s evening entertainment. On Thursdays they bring you Hip Hop Karaoke!

Do you know your Sugar Hill from your Wu Tang? Well jump on stage and show them how’s it done. Head down to the Bridge Street venue on the second and fourth Thursday of the month for karaoke with a new vibe from 8pm till late.

ECLECTIC BALLROOM sATURDAYs The Eclectic Ballroom guys have settled into their new home at the Lightbox Café on Bridge Street dishing up the dirtiest funk, soul and disco you’ve ever heard.

Join the Glastonbury regulars and guests doing their thing every Saturday 9pm till late.

NEW NIghT @ ChARTERs

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Charters bar on the river has introduced a brand new monthly event called Heavy Crates with this month’s event on Saturday February 24.

Popular local DJ’s Otis & Pat Unwin will be playing soulful music from around the world from jazz, soul, reggae, Latin, 80’s soul and beyond.

The Mixology guys at Red Room have another impressive night lined up with Latmun heading to Peterborough on Friday March 2.

Latmun is one of the UK’s most impressive and in-demand, tech-house talents with a discography that includes releases on Hot Creations, VIVa Music & Relief Records.

A breakout year in 2016 saw 3 top 10 EPs on the Beatport Tech-House Chart.

2017 saw Latmun’s productions continue to garner praise and support. The Everybody’s Dancin’ EP on Green Velvet’s Relief Records secured the number 1 spot on Beatport. Following on from that chart success, Latmun released the appropriately named Groove Tool on Lee Foss’s Repopulate Mars and his debut EP on Hot Creations titled Footsteps.

Sell out events at the likes of The Warehouse Project, Mint Warehouse, Sankeys Ibiza; a US Tour with Solardo and upcoming sets at Hideout, We Are FSTVL and Snowbombing – it’s shaping up to be an incredible year for Latmun.

ELECTRONICA FRIDAYs Friday nights the Ligtbox Café turns from daytime cake and coffee to night time cocktails and electronic infused tunes.

Every Friday from 9pm till late. The DJ takes you on a journey of pure classics from 90’s Brit Pop to early deep house. Join Anthony Thornhill and special guests Julian Roberts and Sid Weasly alternating to keep things fresh.

NEW INDIE NIghT It’s great to see more new events adding to the city’s nightlife and fans of the indie scene will love this one at Charters.

New for 2018 is a monthly evening of indie tunes old and new where guitars and beats come together. DJ Anthony Thornhill will provide the backdrop to your Saturday evening from 9pm on the first Saturday of the month with the next ones on February 3 and March 3.

Free entry.

KARAOKE NIghTs AT EDWARD’s Always thought you had what it takes to be the next winner of X Factor?

Now you can put yourself to the test and join DJ Rob every Wednesday with half price drinks until 10.30pm and prizes to be won. The night goes on until 2am and it’s free entry! What better way to spend your evening?

EDWARD’s QUIZ NIghTs It’s not just DJs at Edward’s, why not head out on a school night with your mates and join their weekly Quiz Night. Every Tuesday 8pm start test you knowledge, win prizes. Grab your work mates and start a team!

WILLOUghBY’s BAR AND CLUB

OFF ThE CUFF Off the Cuff is back with a new venue, serving up the best in RnB, 60s soul, Northern and Motown and classic soul crowd pleasers. Get on board with DJs Julian & Glen for this monthly event at Charters. Head down on Saturday February 17. Free entry from 9pm – late.

The Stamford venue on Broad Street has your weekend sorted. It’s free admission on Fridays and free admission on Staurdays before midnight, just £3 after.

There are DJs from 11pm – 3am both nights playing everything from chart to classics, hip hop to R’n’B and plenty of house.

sALsA NIghTs @ FLAREs Get those hips swivelling and join a fun fuelled Tuesday evening of dancing with their professional and bubbly salsa instructors at Flares!

With a range of Salsa and Bachata classes starting from £6 and 50% off drinks on the bar until 10.30pm.

Classes start at 7.30pm. Beginners welcome, no need to pre-book.

VANITY VALENTINE’s sPECIAL Known for bringing that sexy and seductive sound, join the Vanity team as they host the Valentine’s Special in the Red Room. Banging out all the finest in Urban music as standard combined with that slow jams section to get you in the mood for Valentine’s Day! Head down on Friday February 9 from 10pm - 4am. Put you and your partner on the guest list and get entry for both of you + a free bottle of bubbly for £9. Text ‘Vanity + both your names’ to 07411 258 999.

KARAOKE @ JUBILEE gARAgE If you fancy belting out some of your favourite tunes head to the Jubilee Garage in Bourne for their regular karaoke on February 2.

Karaoke god Nick has the whole set up with a huge selection of songs, from Spandau Ballet to Queen, Maroon 5 to Michael Jackson… he's got it.

If you're feeling shy about the whole thing but know you have an inner Whitney try their great selection of gin, vodka and cocktails to give you some Dutch courage.

gET READY FOR sT. PATRICK’s FUN @ sMIThs IN BOURNE Smiths in Bourne will be celebrating St Patrick’s Day with a few twists this year and if you fancy taking a crowd of mates along, best book soon for parties of eight or more!

There’ll be live music at 8pm from Mark Bishop, all day Irish Breakfasts and with every Guinness bought, you get a lucky dip ticket with the chance to win one of their great prizes, ranging from a free Guinness to a £50 voucher to be redeemed at ANY of the Knead pub group sites!

There’ll be plenty of smaller tables available for walk-ins. www.espmag.co.uk

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keith.dalton@espmag.co.uk

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

Here at ESP we’re keenly watching the progress of Peterborough’s next big thing – and hopefully the UK’s – local band Austin Gold.

T

he guys had a busy 2017 gigging around the country, released their cracking debut album Before Dark Clouds and received great praise from the national music press.

There’s no let up this year and they’ve just released tickets for their gig at Peterborough’s Key Theatre in July.

The band of David James Smith (vocals & guitars – who many of you will know from local covers band Children of the Revolution), Jack Cable (guitars), Lee Churchill (bass), Russell Hill (Hammond & keyboards) and Chris Ogden (drums), have been building a reputation as one of the best live acts around.

We caught up with the guys to find out how things are building for the band at the moment following the album release and national gigs.

Bassist Lee Churchill told us – "Well, since we released our debut album Before Dark Clouds in early September through the Jigsaw Music Label, we've played up and down the country, had player profile features in music magazines respectively, and received great album reviews in the UK, Holland and Germany. We’ve also secured endorsements with Ernie Ball strings, Porter & Davies and Vanquish Guitars, plus major airplay on Planet Rock Radio and BBC Radio 2, so it's been really exciting, busy and very humbling.”

48 www.espmag.co.uk

Why have you chosen the Key Theatre for this summer gig and what can we expect?

"Peterborough is our hometown. From our first ever gig at the infamous North Street Bar we've built up a local following which has grown with us as a band.

“Having played some great gigs in the city's pubs, with packed out houses at Charters and Brewery Tap included, headlining Yaxley Festival and loved playing The Peterborough Beerfest we ventured out to Northampton, Leeds, Sheffield, Wales and London to notably increasing attendance, and we had an idea to put on a big Peterborough summer show.

“So we approached the Key Theatre and they were extremely enthusiastic and supportive and it's booked for Saturday July 28. We're going to be playing all of Before Dark Clouds and previewing some new material ahead of going into the studio later in the year for album two.”

Exciting times, so what’s next for Austin Gold?

"Our label are releasing the title track as the second single with more national radio airplay and festival slots are being locked down. We have a three date run in Leeds on February 16/17/18, more UK dates throughout spring, a few select acoustic shows and discussions of European dates.

We hope to see you all at the Key!" Book your tickets now on 01733 207239.

Punk fans are in luck over the coming weeks with a number of gigs coming our way that should have you reaching for the ripped jeans and safety pins.

First up are The Ataris – one of the original ‘first generation’ of USA Pop Punk bands they’re coming to The Met on Saturday March 3 as the final show on the band’s So Long, Astoria 15th Anniversary tour.

So Long, Astoria was widely credited for introducing The Ataris to a larger mainstream audience and generating several successful singles, including In This Diary and The Saddest Song.

The band will be playing the So Long, Astoria album in its entirety plus some other fan favourites. Support comes from Hithcin based pop punkers – All These Years.

Check out more from The Ataris at https://www.facebook.com/theataris/ Looking ahead, The Members, who had one of the classic hits of the original Punk/New Wave era in the late 70’s, Sound of the Suburbs, are set to play The Met Lounge in April.

They’re also known for further hits with Offshore Banking Business and Solitary Confinement from their acclaimed album At the Chelsea Nightclub which reached the top 50 in the album charts.

Expect plenty of energy, power and passion from The Members as well as The Face who are supporting!

The Face are a classic Mod Revival band who played their original songs, influenced by 60’s bands like The Kinks and Small Faces, on the London circuit in 1979/80. The band has recently supported From The Jam and Secret Affair at The Junction in Cambridge.

The gig’s brought to us by the Alley Club in Cambridge who are looking to expand further and have chosen The Met Lounge in Peterborough! It’s being co promoted with Les Potton from Bourne, and is being sponsored by Target HR. Catch The Members and The Face playing live and loud on Friday April 13 – get your tickets now, £15 advance (£17 on the door) from www.skiddle.com/e/13127779.

Photo: Nick Caro

One of our favourite local Rockabilly bands are heading back to Peterborough for a rare local performance.

The guys from The Houndogs are in such demand for private functions and festivals we can’t always get to see them on the local circuit so don’t miss out.

The three brothers are superb musicians and put on a really great show every time so you won’t be disappointed. They give full entertainment value standing on their instruments, belting out great rockabilly classics and setting fire to their cymbals!

Tickets for the Burghley Club gig on Saturday February 10 are £10 and are available from the bar – don’t hang about!

There’s a charity gig coming up early next month featuring some great talent in Peterborough’s Most Wanted in aid of Sue Ryder Thorpe Hall Hospice.

On Friday March 2, Peterborough's Most Wanted in conjunction with PCRFM 103.2 will host a number of artists giving up their time for this event to go down and perform at the Parkway Sports & Social Club.

The line up includes: Chris Watson & Laurette Evelyn, Holly & The Boatmen Resonate.

Timothy Hoad, Jess Orestano, Schrodinger Strings, Decades, Abi Miller, Chloe Lorentzen & Gianni Salonna, Issy Smith, Georgia Evans, India Rose Barlow and Maria Marr featured on this page.

There are no tickets just a request for a recommended donation of £3 on entry.

For more information please contact the Peterborough's Most Wanted team on their Facebook page www.facebook.com/peterboroughs mostwanted/

I’m pleased to see Peterborough’s Paul Henderson is back as Bowie – he’s a favourite tribute to the legend and always puts in a great performance and gains rave reviews.

Acclaimed as the best Bowie tribute in the UK he’s back with his band Aladdinsane at the Stamford Corn Exchange on Friday February 23 featuring all the hits from Ziggy Stardust to the Thin White Duke, into the 80’s and beyond.

We love to support new talent here at ESP so I’m pleased to introduce you to Maria Marr, a very talented Peterborough based singersongwriter.

Maria’s a graduate of The Institute of Contemporary Music Performance in London and recently featured in a ‘Getting to know you session’ at BBC Introducing Cambridgeshire.

Her impressive and professional sounding latest single, What I Missed in Class, was chosen as Pick of the Uploader by BBC Cambridgeshire and also played on PCRFM where she did a live session last month.

You can catch Maria’s next live performance on Friday February 23 at The Queen’s Head in Peterborough and I recommend you do! Maria is also on the line up for the Peterborough Most Wanted gig at the Parkway Club on Friday March 2.

Listen to her song here https://youtu.be/FOzQSwzwjyM it’s a confident performance and I think you’ll be pretty impressed.

We’ll have more on Maria in future issues of ESP I’m sure. In the meantime check out her website for more on www.mariamarr.com.

Aladdinsane have played theatres and venues across the country and people who’ve worked with David Bowie have commented about Paul’s vocals and mannerisms stating how eerily close they are to Bowie’s.

Hit songs like – Starman, Heroes, Life On Mars, Jean Genie, Golden Years, Lets Dance, Changes, Ashes To Ashes and many more including classic album tracks are performed to the highest standard due to the excellent musicianship of the band.

Tickets are £16.50 on 01780 766455. www.espmag.co.uk

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GUIDE gigs@espmag.co.uk If you want to get your gigs in ESP for free, e-mail:

TUE JAN 30 OPEN MIC NIGHT The Pizza Parlour & Music Cafe, Cowgate OPEN MIC WITH GRAHAM CLEAVER The Blue Boar, Eye

THU FEB 1 DAVE SMITH (AUSTIN GOLD) The Burghley Club, Burghley Road VOODOO ACOUSTIC WITH GRAHAM NUNN Mama Liz's, Stamford

FRI FEB 2 CIRCA 73 The Crown, Lincoln Road LAST MINUTE BRIGADE Charters, Town Bridge MARK ROWLANDS Puzzles?, Bridge Street NO RELEVANCE The Golden Fleece, Stamford REVOLVER The Mason's Arms, Bourne ROCKET '57 Tallington Lakes, Tallington THE GUARDS The Ostrich, North Street THE MIGHTY PERSUADERS The Ploughman, Werrington TUMBLING DICE The Yard of Ale, Oundle Road VINTAGE STUFF The Blue Bell, Werrington

SAT FEB 3 ARC NATION The Crown, Lincoln Road BLACKOUT UK The Golden Fleece, Stamford CUTTIN LOOSE The Stage, Market Deeping DIRTY RUMOUR The Grainstore, Oakham GRAND SLAM GLITZ The Blue Bell, Dogsthorpe IDOLISING NOVA The Met Lounge, Bridge Street JACK LITTLE The Beehive, Bourges Boulevard JORDON POOLE Puzzles?, Bridge Street PERKIE + LILITH AI + ANDREW CREAM The Ostrich, North Street TALLAWAH The Heron, Stanground THE CONTACTS The Burghley Club, Burghley Road

50 www.espmag.co.uk

THE TRAVELING WILBURYS EXPERIENCE (TICKETED) Key Theatre, Embankment THIRD STONE FROM THE SUN The Yard of Ale, Oundle Road TIGER CLUB The Ploughman, Werrington

SUN FEB 4 JAMES EDMONDS Puzzles?, Bridge Street JIMMY & RUSS (3PM-6PM) Pizza Parlour and Music Cafe, Cowgate JORDAN POOLE (3PM) Charters, Town Bridge KEITH LUCKEY (3PM) The Frothblowers, Werrington PENNYLESS (4PM) Mama Liz's, Stamford

MON FEB 5 BON RODGERSWHITE Pizza Parlour and Music Cafe, Cowgate

TUE FEB 6 ACOUSTIC NIGHT WITH GRAHAM CLEAVER Millstone Inn, Barnack OPEN MIC WITH ANNA RADFORD Pizza Parlour and Music Cafe, Cowgate THE LAZY OYSTER JAZZ BAND The Angel Inn, Yarwell

WED FEB 7 OPEN MIC WITH BON ROGERS-WHITE The Beehive, Bourges Boulevard

THU FEB 8 JIMMY DOHERTY Pizza Parlour and Music Cafe, Cowgate

FRI FEB 9 ALL SHOOK UP The Crown, Lincoln Road DESPERATE MEASURES The Ploughman, Werrington FLASHBACK PHOTOGRAPH Charters, Town Bridge FOLK CLUB NIGHT The Falcon Hotel, Whittlesey OUTLAW EAGLES The Yard of Ale, Oundle Road SOUND INJECTORS The Blue Bell, Werrington THE NUMBERS The Ostrich, North Street

SAT FEB 10

THU FEB 15

MON FEB 19

CITIZEN SMITH The Fayre Spot, Bretton CUBAN & COGNAC The Blue Bell, Dogsthorpe DIRTY RUMOUR The Red Lion, Rothwell JACK LITTLE Puzzles?, Bridge Street ONE FOR THE ROAD The Stage, Market Deeping REVOLVER The Fox Inn, Thrapston SIMPLY 60S (TICKETED) Springfields Events Centre, Spalding THE EXPLETIVES The Yard of Ale, Oundle Road THE GUARDS The London Inn, Stamford THE HOUNDOGS (TICKETED) + STEALER The Burghley Club, Burghley Road THE OVERDUBS The Crown, Lincoln Road

DANNY SHACKELL Pizza Parlour and Music Cafe, Cowgate

MARK BISHOP Pizza Parlour and Music Cafe, Cowgate

FRI FEB 16

TUE FEB 20

A BAND CALLED MALICE Mama Liz's, Stamford BLACKOUT UK Charters, Town Bridge DESPERATE MEASURES Tallington Lakes, Tallington DIRTY RUMOUR The Crown, Lincoln Road GENERATION SPAN The Ostrich, North Street JIMMY DOHERTY SOLO ACOUSTIC The Ploughman, Werrington LEFTOVAS The Mason's Arms, Bourne MIND THE GAP The Yard of Ale, Oundle Road THE GUARDS The Blue Bell, Werrington

OPEN MIC WITH ANNA RADFORD Pizza Parlour and Music Cafe, Cowgate OPEN MIKE WITH DAVE & PHIL The Boat Inn, Whittlesey

SUN FEB 11

SAT FEB 17

FRUMENTY (4PM) Mama Liz's, Stamford JIMMY DOHERTY (3PM) Charters, Town Bridge LIVE MUSIC Puzzles?, Bretton MATTHEW BANKHURST (3PM-6PM) Pizza Parlour and Music Cafe, Cowgate MEG MCPARTLIN (3PM) The Frothblowers, Werrington

3D Fletton Club, Fletton ANOTHER GIRL ANOTHER PLANET The Yard of Ale, Oundle Road DIRTY RUMOUR The Whistlestop, Tallington JUNK PUPPETS Ebeneezers, Woodston LET THERE B D/C The Crown, Lincoln Road LOAE Puzzles?, Bridge Street LOOSE ROCKET Boston Bowl, Boston RPM The Blue Bell, Dogsthorpe STRELLIES The Stage, Market Deeping THIRD STONE FROM THE SUN The Burghley Club, Burghley Road TUMBLING DICE The Ploughman, Werrington

MON FEB 12 CARPARK RENDEZVOUS Pizza Parlour and Music Cafe, Cowgate OPEN MIC NIGHT Talbot Inn, Stilton SONGWRITERS NIGHT WITH STEVE GIBBS The Boat Inn, Whittlesey

TUE FEB 13 OPEN MIC WITH ANNA RADFORD Pizza Parlour and Music Cafe, Cowgate

WED FEB 14 ACOUSTIC NIGHT WITH THE BOATMEN The Railway, Ramsey JAZZ VELVET ACOUSTIC Pizza Parlour and Music Cafe, Cowgate OPEN MIC WITH BON ROGERS-WHITE The Beehive, Bourges Boulevard

SUN FEB 18 KAT & IAN (3PM-6PM) Pizza Parlour and Music Cafe, Cowgate LEE JOSHUA ROSE Puzzles?, Bridge Street MATTY HAYNES (3PM) Charters, Town Bridge MICHAEL KEITHSON + POOR BOY + DECADES The Glasshouse, Key Theatre OAKLEAS RISE (4PM) Mama Liz's, Stamford

WED FEB 21 OPEN MIC WITH BON ROGERS-WHITE The Beehive, Bourges Boulevard PAGAN Pizza Parlour and Music Cafe, Cowgate

FRI FEB 23 ACOUSTIC NIGHT WITH THE BOATMEN The Boat Inn, Whittlesey BLACKOUT UK The Dragon, Werrington CPR ACOUSTIC The Beehive, Bourges Boulevard DIZZY MISS LIZZYS Charters, Town Bridge FROM DUSK TIL DAWN Brewery Tap, Westgate KICK BACK The Crown, Lincoln Road LOOSE ROCKET The Ploughman, Werrington PORKY PIG The Blue Bell, Werrington RED FACES + TOM LUMLEY + AMONG THE CITIZENS Mama Liz's, Stamford

THE INTRUDERS Burghley Club, Burghley Road THE TINDERBOX Puzzles?, Bridge Street VELOCITY Ebeneezers, Woodston

SUN FEB 25 DIVISION DUO (3PM-6PM) Pizza Parlour and Music Cafe, Cowgate EPIGONE JAZZ ENSEMBLE Mama Liz's, Stamford HAYWARD (3PM) The Frothblowers, Werrington MEG MCPARTLIN (3PM) Charters, Town Bridge TOM WRIGHT Puzzles?, Bridge Street

MON FEB 26 RAINMEN Pizza Parlour and Music Cafe, Cowgate

TUE FEB 27 OPEN MIC The Blue Boar, Eye OPEN MIC WITH ANNA RADFORD Pizza Parlour and Music Cafe, Cowgate

WED FEB 28 ACOUSTIC NIGHT WITH THE BOATMEN The Railway, Ramsey OPEN MIC WITH BON ROGERS-WHITE The Beehive, Bourges Boulevard

SAT FEB 24

FRI MAR 2

AUDIOS The Stage, Market Deeping BROADCASTERS The Prince of Wales Feathers, Castor CARPARK RENDEZVOUS The Ploughman, Werrington CIRCA 73 The Blue Bell, Dogsthorpe JUST TOM & PETE Talbot Inn, Stilton OUTLAW EAGLES The Elm Tree Tavern, Dogsthorpe RAMSHACKLE SERENADE The Ostrich, North Street RIFF RAFF The Yard of Ale, Oundle Road THE EXPLETIVES The Crown, Lincoln Road THE GANGSTERS The Cross Keys, Oundle Road

CHILDREN OF THE REVOLUTION The Ploughman, Werrington CIRCA 73 The Yard of Ale, Oundle Road CJ HATT Puzzles?, Bridge Street DIRTY RUMOUR The Golden Fleece, Stamford THE MIGHTY PERSUADERS The Ostrich, North Street THE MOTIVATORS (REUNION GIG) The Crown, Lincoln Road THE RAMONAS + MARCH TO THE GRAVE + I GOT SPIDERS Mama Liz's, Stamford VARIOUS LIVE PERFORMERS The Parkway Sports & Social Club, Maskew Avenue