ESP January 2011

JANUARY 2011 Issue 137

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BANYAN TREE NOW OPEN We’ve been eagerly awaiting the opening of the new Banyan Tree restaurant on Westgate and we weren’t disappointed. The former Bar Bloc building has been transformed!

ESP dropped by on launch night and the place was packed with plenty of guests enjoying some of the tasty Indian style tapas dishes, Champagne and some of the restaurant’s new menu. This is what the owner describes as – “Authentic Indian food – the kind I’d eat at home!”

whenever and wherever the need is greatest." Samaritans provides confidential non-judgmental emotional support, 24 hours a day for people who are experiencing feelings of distress or despair, including those which could lead to suicide. If you need to talk, call 01733 312727. For more information or to volunteer, visit www.samaritans.org

PASS ON YOUR PRESENTS If you’re overloaded with smellies, chocolate or five copies of the same film this Christmas – Sue Ryder Care will take them off your hands for nothing. They’re always looking for prizes for raffles and things for their charity shops, so de-clutter and do some good! Drop your unwanted gifts off at the reception of Thorpe Hall Hospice in Longthorpe, they’ll accept pretty much anything.

Our Man About Town Pep Cipriano pictured with restaurant owner Dinesh Odedra will no doubt be reporting back on this latest addition to the city’s restaurant scene in next month’s issue. It’s great to see the options for dining out in Peterborough expand and adds to the nightlife mix.

BGL SUPPORTS SAMARITANS The BGL Group, based in Orton Southgate have just donated £15,000 to the Samaritans for a new phone system that’ll enable thousands more distressed callers to get in touch. Chris Jarrett, of Samaritans, told ESP – “We’d like to say a huge thank you to BGL Group for their kind donation.

The funds will help us to reach more people in emotional despair through our new contact system, ensuring that we can be there to offer support www.esp m ag .co.u k ( Ja nuar y )

relaxing reflexology message, get groomed with a manicure or give your skin a boost with a facial. For the ultimate confidence boost, try a free mini makeover at one of the beauty counters afterwards!

MOP SHOP HAIR OFFER Fancy treating yourself to a new look in the New Year? Well the Mop Shop on New Road in Woodston has a great offer on throughout January – 50% off hair extensions! Owner Rita has been in business for 21 years, and is fully trained in both hairdressing and beauty. The Mop Shop specialises in hair colour treatments, as well as beauty treatments such as waxing, tanning, massage and wedding packages. Rita has a friendly, warm team there to help you so pop in and revive your look this year.

GRAB A CAB 24/7 When you’re out partying always make sure you and your mates get home safe and don’t drink and drive – it’s just not worth the risk. Try 24/7 cabs from as little as £4. They’re happy to pick you up and drop you off to wherever you need to be during the New Year.

For more info on offers and prices on the services they can offer you, check their Facebook – Goldstar Cabs, and look at prices on their advert later on in the mag.

BADMINTON PLAYERS WANTED Are you good at Badminton? If so, the Court Badminton Club is looking for experienced men and lady players to join their club during weeknights.

They’re a friendly club who play in the local league, at the Bushfields Sports Centre in Orton, every Wednesday and Friday night from 8pm ‘til 10pm. If you’re looking for an extra hobby and feel you’re experienced enough, then give them a call on 01733 343467, have a quick trial match, and see if you’d like to join. It’s as simple as that!

RECYCLE YOUR PROM DRESS It’s always great to hear of fresh new ideas from local people and Ami Moore has a brilliant idea on how to bag yourself a little more money after Christmas! Check out www.loved prom.com, where you can sell your prom dress, or any fancy dress for that matter, to make yourself a little extra dosh – or of course buy yourself a dress for less. We all know that it’s important to look like the belle of the ball at your prom, but you’re never really going to wear the dress again are you? So if you want a little bit of money back after all the spending this Christmas, then you know what to do!

To find out more contact Ami on ami@lovedboutique.com.

7 SINS OPENS IN STAMFORD FEEL GOOD @ WESTGATE Most people start the New Year, swearing that they’ll get healthier – but health is about much more than laying off the cake! Kick start those New Year’s resolutions with a boost at Amanda Murphy’s Beauty and Holistic Therapy at Westgate Department Store. You’ll find Amanda based near the perfumery counters on the ground floor. Forget about the credit card bill and the freezing weather with a

The newly refurbished 7 Sins bar and club in Stamford is open and ready for the celebrations that the New Year brings. Previously named Charlies, this unique venue in Cheyne Lane is now under new ownership. It brings a contemporary style and new venue to the town’s weekend scene! Don’t forget to check out the Hole In The Wall bar and restaurant downstairs too, owned and run by the same people as 7 Sins upstairs, it’s been refurbished to a high standard, and you can enjoy a tasty meal whilst sipping on your favourite beverage!

IDEAL SHOPPING RAISES CASH FOR CHARITY Peterborough based TV shopping company Ideal Shopping Direct has released a Christmas song, to raise money for Great Ormond Street Hospital Children’s Charity. The single

features presenters and staff, and is currently being played on the Ideal World and Create And Craft shopping channels. They’ve already raised £21,000 since they started supporting the charity a year ago, which will contribute towards new treatments and cures for childhood illnesses. You can download the song from Amazon, iTunes and CDBaby. For more info, visit www.createandcraft .tv/gosh.

Talking of Ideal World – did you catch Create And Craft presenter Nigel May (pictured) going up against the ‘queen of mean’ Anne Robinson on the Weakest Link? Nigel was great fun on the show and got right through to the end but just lost out. Nigel told ESP – “I loved being on The Weakest Link and, despite it being one of the most nerve-wracking things I have ever done I have to say that Anne Robinson was an absolute joy!”

HAVE A LAUGH @ VOODOO

Photo: Kirsten Stokes

January can be pretty miserable when you’re skint and it’s dark so give yourself a belly laugh at Voodoo Stands Up, the monthly comedy club in Stamford. It’s on January 27 at 8pm with comedians from the national circuit and it’s just £7 (£5) to get in.

PRETTY AS A PICTURE Photographer Kirsten Stokes (pictured) is the new resident exhibitor at the Great Northern Hotel and her photos are adorning the wall, making the place look even better than before. Face of ESP Lauren Hughes went to a charity night hosted by Kirsten last month and was joined by well-known motorbike racer, Maria Costello MBE. Kirsten is hoping to organise another charity night soon, so watch this space, or visit www.kirstenstokes.com

BULL HOTEL WEDDING FAYRE Getting hitched? The Bull Hotel is hosting another fantastic Wedding Fayre on February 6. Everything you could possibly need for your big day – including the venue – is right here under one roof. Even better, admission’s free! Drop by between 11am – 4pm and take a look at everything from cakes to discos, and gowns to flowers. For more information, call 01733 561364.

BE ‘FEARLESS’ AGAINST CRIME Young people in Peterborough have been urged to become fearless in the fight against crime at the launch of a new service by national charity Crimestoppers.

The event which was supported by the Safer Peterborough Partnership was held at the Voyager School in Walton. Fearless.org is a new website where young people can get information about crimes that affect them and where they can pass on information about crime completely anonymously – no calls are traced or recorded and callers don’t have to go to court.

Ricky Norwood, who plays Fatboy in Eastenders, was supporting the event and said: “This website is a great idea which will hopefully encourage more young people to be ‘fearless’ in tackling crime. So many young people have died because of crime and it doesn’t have to be like that. By using Fearless they can get advice and pass on information about crime 100% anonymously which could save one of their friend’s lives.” www.fearless.org

INSPIRED HOMEWARE @ SPRINGFIELDS Springfields Outlet Centre, Spalding had a very busy Christmas with shoppers snapping up some bargains.

New store Living Inspirations has proved a hit, selling no-textile homewares including pictures, ceramics, candles and cushions so if you’re thinking of doing up your house this month, check it out. There’s up to 75% off in many stores at the centre – and that’s before the sales!

GARDEN PARK WINS AWARD We all know Peterborough Garden Park’s a great addition to the city – now it’s won a prestigious award for the best out-of-town shopping centre in the UK! The award, made by the British Council of Shopping Centres, was presented to Peterborough Garden Park chairman Gordon Edington by comedian Rory Bremner at a glittering ceremony in London.

Judges particularly commented on the innovative nature of the Garden Park which combines garden centre Van Hage’s dramatic ‘Crystal Palace’ building with a mix of lifestyle retailers, including Andronicas World of Coffee, Bedeck, Cotswold Outdoor, Cotton Traders, HobbyCraft, Le Creuset, Maidenhead Aquatics, Past Times, PBC Books and Pets Corner.

Need a night out? Lara Johnson has the ESP guide to the best shows around…

ALADDIN IN SPALDING

Photo: Eric Richmond

The Hurst Children’s Theatre Group are returning with their version of the popular story of Aladdin. There’ll be plenty of songs, laughter and entertainment as the cast tell the story of our hero, who’s sent to find the lamp of everlasting power, and meets the Genie of the Lamp who transforms his life forever! This lively show is great for all the family, and will be on at the South Holland Centre in Spalding on January 21 – 22 at 7.30pm and 2.30pm on the Saturday. Tickets are £8, so get booking now. Box office: 01775 764777.

Chaplins Pantos have another fun-filled show ready to entertain and delight all the kids this new year. Join Cinderella and Prince Charming in this exciting performance, and help boo the horrible Step Sisters as they try to stop Cinderella from going to the ball! There’ll be lots of laughs and adventure, so make sure you get to Stamford Arts Centre on January 8 at 2pm & 6pm. It’s definitely one for all the family, and for only £25 for a family ticket, you can’t say no!

Box office: 01780 763203.

BROADWAY OPENS WITH FLAWLESS! It’s a moment that many of us have been waiting for, that’s right – the Broadway Theatre will be reopening its doors next month and has an exciting line-up of shows planned for the year already!

Progress on the big clean up is going well and Paul Parker, CEO of StageLive says – “We’re hugely excited about the tickets going on sale for The Broadway Theatre’s very first season as part of the StageLive family. We have programmed a wide variety of shows and hope that you’ll find something to suit all tastes and ages. We can’t wait to welcome audiences through the doors of the new-look Broadway Theatre in February 2011.”

The season will be opening with a bang, as Flawless, stars of Streetdance 3D and Britain’s Got Talent wow audiences with their stunning street dance routines on February 12. If you’re a fan of Britain’s Got Talent, then this is definitely something for you! The show will be packed full of all their sharpest new moves and routines, accompanied by the hottest beats around. Flawless have made their name by producing outstanding street dance routines, and exposing a diverse range of skills.

Chase The Dream explores life in the fast line, and ultimately encouraging everyone to chase their dreams.

Their breathtaking show will open the Broadway Theatre’s new season, and will no doubt leave you feeling inspired and wanting more! Tickets start at £18.50.

The box office is already open to take bookings for all the new shows, such as Blood Brothers, Chippendales, Chuckle Brothers, Jungle Book, Spirit Of The Dance and many more. You can book tickets by calling 0844 850 0850, or collecting in person at the venue, or even by visiting their website www.thebroadwaytheatre.co.uk.

PRIDE AND PREJUDICE The Chapter House Theatre Company is taking audiences back in time as they perform this famous story written by Jane Austen. As sisters Elizabeth and Jane pursue their own quest for true love, a series of mistakes and miscommunications leave the two girls fighting for the men they love. Elizabeth tries to see past the proud exterior of Mr Darcy, in the hopes that a man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife! It’s on at the Stamford Corn Exchange on January 20 at 1pm and 7.30pm. Tickets are £10. Box office: 01780 766455. www.esp m ag .co.u k ( Ja nuar y )

CINDERELLA IN STAMFORD

THE SINGING BONES The Devil’s Violin Company will be playing their hearts out in this folk inspired tale. The Singing Bones is a concoction of tales that will have the hairs on the back of your neck standing on end! Described as ‘charming and chilling’, the hands of the Devil’s Violin Company will create a soul-stirring performance. Ticket price includes an optional spooky torch-lit tour of the Ayscoughfee Hall at 6pm and a pre-show beverage back at the South Holland Centre in Spalding at 7pm. It’s on January 26, and the show starts at 7.30pm. Tickets are £11. Box office: 01775 764777.

LET’S HANG ON The number one tribute to Frankie Valli & the Four Seasons is back by popular demand, and is guaranteed to have you singing and dancing in the aisles! The show will take you back to a great time in musical history, with all your favourite hits such as Big Girls Don’t Cry, Rag Doll, Walk Like A Man, Dec ’63, Can’t Take My Eyes Off You and many more! So make sure you don’t miss out on the chance to see a tribute to one of the biggest pop sensations of all time. It’s on at Stamford Corn Exchange on January 29 at 7.30pm. Tickets are £15. Box office: 01780 766455.

JACK’S A CRACKER AT THE KEY! We’re big kids at ESP so when the invite came to check out the theatre’s latest panto Jack And The Beanstalk we were there! And we found we weren’t the only ‘big kids’ in the audience as screams and hollers from decidedly ‘older’ voices were clearly heard behind us. It was another sign that the Key Theatre team certainly have the knack of entertaining everyone of all ages when it comes to their annual panto. There’s just something so friendly and relaxed about their shows that whatever your age you forget yourself and get caught up in all the booing and hissing!

Patric Kearns as the dame has just the right mix of adult jokes and kid friendly witties while the giant is well – BIG – and pretty amazing! Even our own Stamford Calling columnist Matt Zilch puts his guitar in the closet for a few weeks and joins the cast on stage as Rodney Ringer – as well as being a talented musician our Matt’s also a bit of a musical thesp and started out with the Key Youth Theatre.

Jack And The Beanstalk is packed with every essential panto ingredient – goodies, baddies, heroics, songs, monsters, banter, local references, a dame with a big personality (and the most garish of outfits), plenty of ‘it’s behind you’ interaction and… poop jokes! Plus you’ll see Cheryl Cole as never before so don’t miss it!

You’ve still got until January 9 to catch the show but don’t hang about!

Box office: 01733 207239.

MOTOWN MAGIC 3 Live on stage at the Ivy Leaf Club in Whittlesey is the Ultimate Temptations. They’re back by popular

demand, and will be joined by DJ Skip Stuart, Paul Donnelly and special guest Wayne Fitzgerald for the ultimate party night! It’s on January 8, and tickets are just £8 each. For more info call 01733 202579, or to book, call the box office on 01733 204353.

The John Clare Theatre will be screening some great films throughout January, starting with The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo on January 13 at 7.30pm. Follow the story of a reporter who’s facing an unjust prison sentence, and whilst awaiting his sentence is hired by a wealthy industrialist to solve a mystery.

On January 20 at 7.30pm, District 9 is being shown, where not too far into the future, a spaceship comes to a standstill hovering over a city housing thousands of stranded aliens. They’re brought down and forced to live in a huge slum.

London River is the next film to be screened on January 27 at 7.30pm, set in the aftermath of the July 7 suicide bombings in London, where the two central characters take you on a journey of their experiences that day.

For more info on films at the John Clare Theatre, visit www.peterboroughartscinema.co.uk.

ENTERTAINMENT

MOVIES @ PETERBOROUGH ARTS CINEMA

entertainment @espmag.co.uk

BACK TO BROADWAY A brand new classical musical theatre show is hitting the Stamford Corn Exchange stage. The show has a contemporary twist, as the talented cast use their experience from London’s West End, and bring together world class voices, brilliant costumes and songs from all of the best loved musicals. If you’re a fan of musicals, old and new, then this is something you won’t want to miss. Join Gavin Burke, Gina Price, Kellie Potter and Alexandra Waite in this fantastic show that’ll take you Back To Broadway. It’s on February 19 at 7.30pm. Tickets are £15. Box office: 01780 766455.

FELA! ON SCREEN IN STAMFORD A very special screening of a wholly unique fusion of dance, theatre and music is coming to Stamford Arts Centre cinema on January 18. Fela! will explore the world of Afrobeat, using pioneering music – a blend of jazz, funk and African rhythm. The show reveals one of the character’s controversial life as an artist and political activist – and is coming via Broadway, to the National Theatre, and then broadcast live on to the Stamford cinema screen. Tickets are £12.50, and it’ll start at 7pm. For more info, call 01780 763203.

EVENTS

Liv Slater has the ESP round up of the best local events…

WINTER WONDERLAND ON ICE The fantastic Holiday On Ice will be calling at Exec Peterborough, East of England Showground on February 3 – 6, and here at ESP, we can’t wait!

This year’s show is titled Energia and is an ice dancing spectacular that will take you through the story of the universe. A 3D set, 40 international ice dancers in magnificent costumes combine with mind-blowing choreography and beautiful music. The world’s biggest show of its kind – it’s been seen by 321 million people and visited 620 cites in more than 80 countries of five continents – you’d better get your tickets booked as there’s no better way to light up your February. We’ve been along the last couple of years and can tell you it’s just stunning!

Tickets range from £24 to £30 with all children at £12, and big discounts for groups. Box office: Peterborough Destination Centre, Bridge Street, call 01733 452336, or the Ticket Factory on 0844 581 1315.

MIX YOUR GENRES

events @espmag.co.uk

Photo: Mike Harris

The Green Backyard comes in from the cold on Feburary 5 with an allday music event at Club Dissident with genres ranging from acoustic, experimental rock, drum ‘n’ bass and electro with support from MCs and poets. Artists already booked include – Double Handsome Dragons, Dr Robeatnik, Moony, Lukus, Day Glow Joe, Benny T, Mark Grist and compering will be Keely Mills. Workshops will be running throughout the day, including MC workshops.

FREAKY FUN IN THE FENS The Straw Bear Festival takes place on January 14-16 this year and the whole of Whittlesey will be over-run by bands, folk dancers and people out for a good time! It’s a truly unique event in this country – the Straw Bear (a man, covered in straw) is lead, dancing like a drunk, through the streets while Morris and Molly dancers perform in the pubs all day on the Saturday.

On Saturday night swamp ‘n’ roll band Elvis Fontenot and the Sugar Bees are playing at Park Lane School, while on Sunday morning, the burning of the bear takes place at Sir Harry Smith School. If you’ve not been before, give it a go – we promise you won’t end up like Edward Woodward in the Wicker Man, and there’s not a lot else on in January! It all kicks off at 10am but for more information, visit www.strawbear.org.uk or call 01733 208245.

EARN AND LEARN It’s not the best time to be looking for a job, so boost your chances of getting noticed by taking part in one of the programmes for 16-24 year olds at City College Peterborough. The college is hosting a Choices event on January 6 where you can meet the tutors and find information on Foundation Courses and Apprenticeships. Apprenticeships mean you’ll get paid while you learn and Foundation courses give you a good grounding; they’re available in areas like – Business Administration, Customer Services, Hairdressing & Beauty, Construction, Motor Vehicle and Catering & Hospitality. The event runs from 10.30am – 2pm at the Peterborough City College, Brook Street. To find out more, contact 01733 761361 or email choices@citycollegepeterborough.ac.uk

IF YOU GO DOWN TO THE WOODS TODAY…

Peterborough Environment City Trust (PECT) wants to plant a tree for every person in Peterborough to create new areas of woodland around the city. That’s 170,000 trees so a little celebrity leg up was required!

As chairman of the Woodland Trust, Clive Anderson was the ideal guy to put this idea to Peterborough folk. Clive took a light-hearted approach to being labelled a ‘tree hugger’ and entertained the audience at the launch with plenty of jokes about his own ‘deforestation’ issues hair wise, interspersed with a serious message about this ambitious new project for the city.

Clive told ESP he believes it’s a realistic ambition – “The main thing is to have the space and it’s not always that difficult to find. Many offices etc have a bit of spare land around them and it’s quite beneficial to have some trees screening you off from other things to make them less intrusive.”

Peterborough’s already pretty green compared to some www.esp m ag .co.u k ( Ja nuar y )

places with tree lined parkways and open spaces, but the Woodland Trust is looking to double the UK’s tree cover and as Peterborough is already an Environment City and is hoping to become the UK’s Environment Capital, it’s an ideal initiative to support.

PECT are now looking for landowners and businesses to offer land, people to make donations to the forest fund and for volunteers to help.

Clive added – “The more trees there are the more good you’ll do so depending on who you’re talking to the message is – would you like to join the Woodland Trust, or do you want to join or donate money to PECT? Or do you just want to be a volunteer and get your hands dirty for a weekend or are you a prosperous businessman who can allow a little corner of your land to have some trees planted? Whoever you are you can contribute in different ways. The first thing is to get people to care.”

If you’d like to play your part in starting to grow a new forest in the city you can join in and help plant 1,500 trees at Thorpe Meadows on Sunday January 23. Drop in any time between 9am and 3.30pm near the Boathouse pub. Wear warm clothes, wellies and take a spade if you’ve got one.

To contribute to the fund just text ‘wood’ to 70300 and donate £3 or visit www.pect.org.uk/forest for more details on making larger donations or advice on how to help.

Photo: Emma Bothamley

You might meet Clive Anderson! The TV and radio celeb came to the city recently to launch plans for a forest for Peterborough.

CHARITY ICE CLASH RAISED CASH The Christmas Cracker Charity Ice Hockey Match that took place last month at Planet Ice, Bretton was a great success. Unfortunately, Face of ESP Lauren Hughes’ team lost, but she wasn’t a poor loser – “It was really good fun – nerve-wracking at first but once you got out there it was such a laugh. I used to skate but I’ve never played ice hockey before. It felt really weird wearing all the kit, I didn’t feel I could walk and when I fell over I just bounced!”

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There were lots of falls and bumps (which made it very entertaining to watch) and even the Mayor went over at one point! Loads of cash was raised for the Mayor’s charities – Diabetes UK, Macmillan Cancer Nurses and Peterborough War Memorial.

A QUESTION OF LOVE For a less tacky take on the dating scene, try When the Music Stop’s dating events at Halo this month. They focus on creating the right atmosphere, where everyone can relax – the first event this month is a Quiz Dating night on January 12. Ladies are put into teams of three and have a group of male assistants visit every round, giving you the chance to meet people in a fun, less pressurised way. There’s a prize for the winning team at the end and if you like anyone you meet, you have the chance to get their details if they like you too! A Speed Dating event will also be taking place on January 26 for 25 – 40 year olds, and another speed-dating event for 38-55 year olds is planned, so check www.whenthemusicstops.com or 0845 2303199.

PASSION FOR FASHION IN STAMFORD

• • • • • • •

Special events available including, stag nights, corporate events and birthday parties.

License bar and food available Sky TV Discount structure available Open 7 days a week See our website for more details Booking essential

Photo: Neil Golding

A charity fashion event in Stamford saw hundreds of people head to the Arts Centre Ballroom to see the latest trends. Several independent stores from the town showcased their fashions on the catwalk including Ruby Loves, Abi Golightly and Energy. Top make-up artist Lisa Hinks who runs Hollywood Glam did the make-up at the show organised by EVO2 Events. Loads of money was raised for Macmillan Cancer Support and fashion fans had a fantastic evening.

SANTA MAKES A RUN FOR IT The Santa Run at Ferry Meadows last month managed a great turnout and raised loads of cash, despite the freezing weather! Around 89 people, dressed as Santa, completed the course this year – including ESP’s Lauren Hughes, who took her gorgeous dog, Millie, with her. EACH (East Anglian Childrens’ Hospices) look after around 50 life-threatened kids and their families in the local area – to show your support, visit www.each.org.uk or call 01223 205180.

01733 202604 Funthams lane, Kingsdyke,Whittlesey, Peterborough PE7 2PA golf@peterboroughvirtualgolf.co.uk • www.peterboroughvirtualgolf.co.uk

“We now have greater freedom to push our own agenda rather than fit in with the overall agenda the The new look Museum council would have had to fulfil and we can work more easily with other partners to deliver more. Previously everyone’s ploughed their own furrow, now we’re all heading in the same direction.”

The Key Theatre

“We are honestly so excited about it all,” enthuses Kevin Tighe, chief executive of the city’s new cultural and leisure trust Vivacity. And to be honest so are we!

ESP grabbed a word with Kevin and colleague Shelagh Smith to see what the new year held for this new organisation and for our city. If you’re still confused about Vivacity and what it does let us tell you it sounds like good news!

In simple terms Vivacity is an independent, not-for-profit organisation that on May 1 2010 began a contract with the city council to provide the cultural and sporting services that the council used to.

This independent charity is now responsible for the museum, sports centres, libraries and theatres previously run by the council and is made up of a 300 strong team of staff, as well as volunteers. It’s run by an independent board which includes some council representation.

Shelagh Smith, chairman of the board of trustees, says separating these venues from council control not only opens up fresh avenues for funding but will mean faster action.

“Freedom from bureaucracy really allows creative people to express and experiment. We can now do things and change things far more quickly and our strategy is very much focussed on that.

If there’s something people always moan about it’s what there is to do and the role sport, art and culture play in how we view where we live can often be undervalued. It’s why we launched ESP Magazine – to shout about all the good things the area has to offer – and now it sounds like Vivacity should be able to bring us much more.

“Quality of service is the main driver, the second is value and people are already seeing the difference,” says Kevin.

You wouldn’t believe just how many groups and organisations there are in the city but for years most have operated entirely separately and most City libraries don’t know about the existence of others. Part of the grand plan is to bring these groups together and to support them to grow, work together and do more.

“We’re looking to build a foundation for arts in the city, bring in new ideas and develop them,” says Shelagh.

Considering Vivacity has only been in existence since the beginning of May it’s early days, however, the future looks bright and there are already a number of projects underway to get excited about. For a start a £1million investment has been put into revamping the city’s Regional Pool and gym which is already underway and should be a real transformation. You can now also have a membership card that applies to all of their pools and gyms which means you can make the most of different facilities at Werrington, Bushfield and the Regional.

Keeping fit

December has seen the start of a £3million investment in a year long refurbishment of the Museum and Art Gallery in Priestgate, which will see it returned to Georgian splendour. It’ll see improvements to the heating, transform how the artefacts are exhibited and provide more of a story behind them. Then in January after the panto there’ll be £100,000 spent on replacing all the seating at the Key Theatre.

Photos: Dave Porter, 07752 232425, www.daveporterphotography.co.uk and Mike Harris for ESP

One of the things ESP was particularly interested in was the future for Peterborough Festival – “It will have a much stronger thread of art flowing through it,” explained Shelagh.

“Performing arts, visual arts, literature and poetry.

“We want to build the quality so people travel to it, and the Heritage Festival will most likely become a stand alone event.”

So fingers crossed as Vivacity becomes better established we should hopefully find ourselves with a lot more to look forward to. www.vivacity-peterborough.com

www.esp m ag .co.u k ( Ja nuar y )

Exclusive stockists of Thomas Sabo jewellery in Peterborough

Pep Cipriano

MAN about

100 PER SCENT RUMPY-PUMPY WINNER Boffins at Chicago’s Smell & Taste Treatment and Research Foundation have revealed women are most turned on by the smell of baby powder, lavender and cucumber. Forget the scent of flowers and my eau de toilette. Next time I want some slap and tickle I’ll bring a baby with nappy rash, an old woman reeking of lavender and a cucumber with a cheeky grin on my face.

TOWN pep.cipriano@espmag.co.uk

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RESOLUTIONS SORT OF KEPT…

MY WORD OF THE MONTH

This time last year I published my New Year resolutions – well kind of – I don’t make resolutions. What I do instead is set myself a target of completing five from 10 ‘subtle changes’ I’d like to make to my life for the year ahead. I’m pleased to say I’ve (sort of) accomplished the following five feats:

Post-Christmas weight-gain blues making you feel fat? Here are some weight issues: Scales, wobble, bingo wings, slow, muffin tops, Atkins, waddle, belt, waistband, forklift, love handles, notch, Dawn French, celery, yoghurt, heavy, pant, chins and stretch marks.

1. Try to break wind when in bed with my lover. It's better out than in and will improve my chances of avoiding colorectal cancer. Done! I’m averaging at least three a night and she’s now grading them. Must be love.

2. Ask for no butter in my lunchtime roll. Butter or margarine has as much use in a sandwich as I have in a basketball team. Achieved! My roll now tastes like sandpaper and I’m 2lb heavier than this time last year.

Work that one out?!

BIGGER ADVANCED STORE

3. Stop pretending to like Champagne. It's overrated and pretentious like designer handbags. Horrible stuff. I’d rather drink my own wee.

4. Change my pants every day. Err…does it count if you sniff them and they don’t smell?

Weight

CAUGH

T IN T Ever wo 5. Get my back waxed more often. I'm starting to feel n popular dered why M HE at guilty when small children begin to cry at the sight in Stam ford?" t's so of me emerging from a swimming pool. Ah… well I didn’t actually go swimming in 2010 so I can roll this one into 2011. Besides, my back (and shoulders – a few sprouting on those too) has been keeping me warm this winter.

Running is another great way to trim festive fat and choosing the right clobber has been made all the more easier with the recent opening of a bigger and better Advance Performance store in Fengate.

This place is double the size of the old store. The extra space has allowed for additional triathlon equipment, sports science testing and – in association with the Fitzwilliam Hospital – in-store physiotherapy. Check out www.advanceperformance.co.uk

ACT!

BOOT CAMP CAMRIDER TWO CHRISTMAS SINS! FOR ONE Most of us consume on average around 6,000 calories on Christmas Day and if you’re Italian like me then treble that. Controlling what you eat will control your weight but exercise can help keep the pounds off as part of a balanced diet.

BALDERSTON BRASS MONKEYS!

That’s why I’m pleased to see there’s a local Boot Camp on the go where you can have fun trying out military-inspired exercises as well as conventional gym routines. Best of all it’s outdoor and you still get one-to-one workout advice, nutritional guidelines and body fat analysis if you so desire.

There are plenty of offers throughout the winter on motorbike servicing and warm clothing (Michelle: I’ll be in for my under gloves soon). Pop into their Hampton showroom for tips and advice on keeping your two wheels (and two other bits if you’re male) protected from the cold. You’ll even get a proper hot drink and a good choice of biscuits to munch on. Call 01733 565470 or go to www.balderston.net

For more info and to book a free taster session visit www.powerconditioning.co.uk

CIAOS OUT:

The boys at Man About Town sponsors Balderston have been making the most of recent freezing temperatures by trying out their range of thermal undergarments with every bike service road test.

Bootcamp is Saturdays (11am) at Ferry Meadows, Mondays (9.30am) at Werrington sports field and Wednesdays (9.30am) at Itter Park.

www.esp m ag .co.u k ( Ja nuar y )

It’s two for the price of one for bike test training with CAM Rider in Werrington until the end of February. The second person just pays for bike hire, collision damage waiver and test fees. Both candidates must be on the same course, dates and times. The offer isn’t available for compulsory basic training (CBT). Full details are at www.camrider.com

PRETTY MUCH ANY OTHER WOMAN Julia Roberts’ character in Pretty Woman came top in a list of females men would like to spend a night in a hotel with to “relieve the boredom of their lonely room.” What the hotel.info survey is really telling us is men prefer the company of a prostitute in a hotel room than their wife or girlfriend. England international ‘role models’ Wayne Rooney and Peter Crouch will vouch for that.

• • • • • •

Bob and Richard (a little bit) – thanks for helping me pass!

Tony – on the couch in Fletton for your compleano?

Nicola – any update?

Aunt Sally – bronzer is better x Rob – what’s the big birthday plans then?

God – please don’t make me injured anymore

16-24?

Come along to our CHOICES EVENT THURSDAY 6TH JANUARY 10.30AM – 2PM at City College Peterborough Meet the tutors and find out more about the wide range of programmes for 16-24 year olds including Apprenticeships and Foundation Learning courses in: • • • • • • • • • •

Business Administration Customer Services Hairdressing & Beauty Construction Motor Vehicle Catering & Hospitality Dental Nursing Childcare IT User/Professional General Step onto programmes

To find our more, phone 01733 761361 or email choices@citycollegepeterborough.ac.uk City College Peterborough, Brook Street, Peterborough PE1 1TU

Can’t make this event?

Contact our Choices team on 01733 761361 for more information

sundays

sunday LunCh bring your family to us this sunday and enjoy lunch with a difference. in the relaxing atmosphere of our restaurant you can enjoy a three course lunch of Quality assured english meats accompanied by a delicious selection of fresh vegetables.

From £7.95 per person.

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LEisuRE CLuB

Just 2 miles from the centre of Peterborough, the Holiday Inn Peterborough West is one of the city's most prestigious hotels, fully air conditioned and situated opposite an excellent 18-hole golf course and some 500 acres of beautiful parkland. With our recent refurbishment, our contemporary restaurant has an excellent reputation, as has the hotel's Club Moativation with pool, spa, sauna, steam room, aerobics, beauty treatment, solarium and gym. Golf at Thorpe Wood course opposite the hotel can be pre-booked.

Holiday Inn Peterborough West Thorpewood, Peterborough PE3 6SG

Tel: 01733 289900 www.holidayinn.co.uk

Join Club Moativation health and fitness club now and take advantage of an offer for your mind, body and pocket! Our great facilities include; a fully equipped gym, swimming pool, sauna and steam room, or book up for one of the many exercise classes running throughout the week. Off-peak membership for £32.50 per month per person or joint membership only £45.50 per month. friday 11th and saturday 12th february

VaLEntinE's day romance your loved one this Valentine’s and enjoy a glass of Champagne on arrival followed by a sumptuous four course dinner in our stylish restaurant, accompanied by our resident pianist. £24.95 per person or £99 per couple including an overnight stay and breakfast. sun 7th MarCh & sun 5th sePteMber

WEdding FayRE a must for every bride to be. Come and view the hotels facilities and be inspired by the wedding experts on hand to help you plan your perfect wedding. an array of suppliers from florists to hire companies will also be available. Free entry.

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sarah.tempest @espmag.co.uk

A CHANGE IS AS GOOD AS A REST IN SOAP LAND

DRUMMING UP WILLPOWER OK, this is it, no more messing around, it’s a new year and finally, I am going to do it. No, I’m not planning on running the marathon, or making 2011 my year to undertake my maiden skydive, I’m just finally going to stick to the resolution I’ve been making every year since 1997 and lose weight.

You may wonder how I can be sure when I’m such a serial failure and usually fall at the first hurdle of a sniff of Cabernet Sauvignon or Galaxy chunk, but this year, I’ve finally had the wake up call I needed. After two children in two years, it’s fair to say that my skinny jeans haven’t seen the light of day for a while but with an average of four hours sleep a night, and no time to lovingly wash lettuce, getting back into them wasn’t exactly high on my list of priorities. That is, however, until last week when my 19 month old little boy lifted up my top and found it totally hilarious to play the bongo drums on my dough belly!

Whilst I was more relieved that he didn’t try and strum my stretch marks, I was so mortified that I vowed there and then that he’d have to find a new toy and my wobble board had to go. I’m going to do it differently this time though, no more hovering on one leg and being a slave to the scales, this time I’m going to chuck them out and use a new way to measure my success; I’m going to continue letting Johnny play the belly bass drum for now – I’m just going to steer well clear of the chocolate until it plays an octave higher!

I can’t get to grips with Soaps sending young characters off to goodness knows where, only for them to return being played by completely different actors. Corrie started it years ago when ‘Tracey, love’ Barlow was sent upstairs to “do some colour ing” by her mum Deirdre, and years later came back as a foxy minx; and then Sarah Louise Platt, a squashed faced spud of a child (perfect casting as Gail’s daughter) disappeared somewhere (I forget where, she was probably sent to the Kabin to buy some sweets, there must have been a queue) only to reappear much later to be played by Tina O’Brien, an actress who spent half her life posing in lads’ mags in her knickers.

Eastenders copied by changing Lauren during her summer trip to Camp America and now they’ve taken advantage of Ben’s little stay in borstal to change the actor to someone a little less camp . At least Corrie used the opportunity to upgrade to far more attractive actors ; Eastenders swapped a very pretty Lauren for a sulky vision in a checked shirt and leggings (never a good look) and a cute pudgy Ben for a lad who I swear has to be David Walliams secret lovechild. Check out the similar ity next time it’s on!

TOTALLY PATH-ETIC

I’ve just had a lesson in how to feel totally pathetic, courtesy of my next door neighbour. Fed up with this awful cold snap (just going off on one, why do they call it a cold ‘snap’? Snap implies something that is harsh but over quickly – this freeze seems to have been going on forever.)

Anyway… I decided I heating up to the shop and instead turned the couldn’t face going out to walk up purple and w yello thick extra of pair ive tract a few notches, pulled on a very unat , not show (the Kyle my sat down in front of Jere ski socks, stuck the kettle on and custard a ing dunk just was I ). weird be just the actual Jeremy Kyle, that would the lie detector test (I’m sure the wife cream and awaiting the results of er – ng hide the sausage with her moth was right and he was indeed playi y funn a d hear I when giveaway) shifty eyes, you see, they’re a dead I Opening my curtains just a tiny bit, scraping noise coming from outside. y heav very a ging drag r neighbou peeped through to see my welly-clad e. from the pavement outside my hous shovel, carefully clearing the snow my that fact the except for Nothing too bad there you might think neighbour is Winnie and she’s 91.

In California, a 71 year old terminally ill man d that I’d been shown up by a I didn’t know whether to be more gutte has been given 21 years in prison for robbing a macked that I missed the big lie pensioner, or because I was so gobs bank while in his wheelchair. Wow, that’s think those eyes were shifty Still . know r detector reveal. Now I’ll neve amazing – the doctors only gave him six though… months.

BANKING ON LONGEVITY

www.esp m ag .co.u k ( Ja nuar y )

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FASHION

ESP’s style guru Sue Donnelly knows a thing or two about shopping for clothes so who else would be better to guide you through the January sales? Follow Sue’s top tips and you’ll be bagging a real bargain…

It’s that time of year again when all your unwanted presents go back to the shops and you’re assailed by ‘bargains’ that you just can’t do without.

But don’t be fooled by all the savings you’re going to make. Many of us buy sale items only to find them hanging unworn in the closet the following year. There’s always a reason why the store wants an item to go from its rails and it’s never because it’s a ‘must-have’.

To help you find a true gem, here are some of my top tips:

• Do your research beforehand and check out what you want to buy and make a bee-line for it on sales day (with no departures). If you know the sales assistant in the store, see if they can sneakily put it on one side for you – always worth asking, even if the answer is ‘no’.

fashion @espmag.co.uk

• A classic garment that will stand the test of time is a great bargain to find but make sure it is ‘classic’ and not ‘dated’.

THUMBS DOWN: Harem pants cat suit will date

THUMBS UP: Boyfriend tux, white shirt and jeans is a classic staple

SURVIVAL GUIDE

www.esp m ag .co.u k ( Ja nuar y )

• OR wear it in small chunks animal print is last season’s trend so a dress is too much but the scarf is OK because it’s not full on.

• To initiated fashionistas and followers of labels, an ‘It’ bag or gadget is only ‘It’ when it’s that season’s must-have.

If it’s last season’s it’s no longer ‘it’

THUMBS DOWN: Mulberry blue bag is last season

THE ESP SALES

• If it’s really trendy, you’ll need to wear it immediately as it won’t be cool six months from now.

therefore decreases in status and financial value. Only buy it if you love it and don’t care.

• Only buy it if you know for sure it will go with other items in your existing wardrobe.

• It must fit properly. A garment will look cheap if it doesn’t hang properly • If you find the perfect shirt, trousers, jeans – buy two.

• Don’t trust size labels, as the best bargains I’ve ever bought were garments sized incorrectly • Check any refund policies in the store before you buy.

• Too much hassle? Check online as sale dates are often two or three days earlier.

• Lastly, wear comfy clothing and shoes and minimal accessories so you don’t waste time in changing rooms and your feet don’t get sore from running around. Wear the right underwear and carry heels with you if needs be.

THUMBS UP: Animal print scarf

• Don’t go to the sales without a shopping list and a budget (that you will stick to of course!)

Matt

S Zilch T A M F O R DCALLING

SING IT YOURSELF AT TOREADOR! If you’re a fan of Karaoke and love to get up and sing your heart out to Backstreet Boys or Bananarama, then the Toreador is the place for you. It’s the local hotspot for karaoke, and every Friday and Saturday the floor’s set with many microphones and cheesy songs.

This unique underground bar has recently undergone a mini refurb, with some great new contemporary furniture which looks very swish!

If you’re out in Stamford on your birthday, then make sure you make Toreador the first pit stop in your pub crawl and receive a free bottle of bubbly! Or you can always use the venue for your party celebrations – just check their Facebook page or give them a call.

I’ll be playing at the Toreador along with The Harrington Blues on December 23, and would love as much support as possible! You can also catch me and my band The Miezters at the Pear Tree on December 31 to bring in the New Year with a bang.

matt.zilch@espmag.co.uk

OPEN ALL HOURS @ THE FLEECE It’s always great to have a decent local pub down the road, where you can go for a hearty meal or a beverage and enjoy some local entertainment that may be on offer. What’s even better, is when your local’s open early serving breakfast (yes, full English!) then lunch and dinner. I know the Golden Fleece is popular for its live entertainment with bands like Porky Pig and Burlesque playing on a regular basis, and for having quality real ales on offer too, but I didn’t realise until recently that it’s open right through from 8am until 1am! So next time you’re in Stamford, escape the freezing weather that we’ve been lumbered with these last few weeks, and pop into the Golden Fleece for a great pint… or even start early with a decent breakfast!

WE WILL ROCK YOU! Stamford Corn Exchange theatre’s had a good year and it’s been great to see the place put on such a varied programme of shows. Music fans who like a little We Are The Champions and the like should get February 12 in the diary when Mercury – The Ultimate Queen Tribute hits town. I’m told Joseph Lee Jackson really does Freddy justice and Glenn Scrimshaw does a mean Brian May on guitar. All together now… ‘We will, we will… ROCK YOU!’

COOL COFFEE Cafe culture’s definitely hit Stamford with the latest new kid on the block, Caffè Nero, serving up a mean cappuccino. You’ll find it on the High Street and I’m told the huge hot choccies are like a dessert so if you’ve got a sweet tooth you know where to head!

STAMFORD PAPARAZZI I’ll be out an about again with the camera this year but Pep’s done a grand job standing in for me – but of course he had the girls with him! Pep, Dani and Alannah headed out to Mama Liz’s, the Pear Tree and the Scotgate.

www.esp m ag .co.u k ( Ja nuar y )

When you quote EsP Magazine Offer expires 15th January 2011. Offer applies to food only (no drinks) not to be used in conjunction with any other offers Maximum discount value not to exceed ÂŁ50 Please reserve your table in advance

wheels@espmag.co.uk

THE NEW FACES OF 2011 Our model meets the latest new model at Volvo as Lauren Hughes, Face of ESP checks out the features on the new V60 at Marshall Volvo on Boongate.

the V60 which means the car stops for you and prevents those nasty shunts that can occur when you’re not quite concentrating as you should be!

This sexy black number certainly caught Lauren’s eye with its cream leather interior and shapely curves.

Innovation is at the forefront of Volvo’s mindset and this is perfectly illustrated on the huge touch screen at Marshall Volvo – think a wall mounted iPad! With a simple tap of the screen you can run videos to view things like Pedestrian Detection with full Autobrake and see what the vehicle ‘sees’ as you’re driving along – it’s incredible to watch how the car is aware of pedestrians as you drive along and can react as necessary if you don’t manage to.

The recently launched V60 is a new benchmark model for Volvo nestling comfortably between the V50 and V70 and looking more like a premium sports tourer it’s set to perfectly fill a gap in the market.

“The design points on this model are spot on and again proves just how the whole brand is moving forward into a younger market place,” says sales controller Andy Heftel. “You’re getting the same value for money but the prestige of the link with the Volvo brand. The quality of the materials used and the drive is all that of a prestige car.”

Volvos might once have been ugly ducklings but these days the range has certainly returned with some good looks but its reputation for safety remains unchanged. The Volvo vision is for no-one to be killed or seriously inured by 2020 – a bold mission statement. To help them on their way City Safety comes as standard in

www.esp m ag .co.u k ( Ja nuar y )

Marshall in Boongate was one of the first to have one of these screens installed which also has visuals to help you ‘build’ your Volvo on screen. You can turn the vehicle graphics with a drag of your finger to view it from all angles, change the colour scheme and kit it out with all the gadgets you’d like to create your perfect combination.

V60 SE LUX PREMIUM SPORTSWAGON VITAL STATISTICS:

MARSHALL VOLVO Mallory Road, Boongate, Peterborough, PE1 5AU Tel: 0844 243 4984

• The V60 starts from £24,960 • New 2 litre diesel • 400 newton metres of torque • 163 bhp • City Safety as standard

• Open log fire.

• Lunchtime snack menu available.

• Live entertainment, see ESP Gig Guide.

• We currently serve three Real Ales – increasing by popular demand.

Home cooked food with locally sourced produce served from: Monday to Saturday: 12pm – 9pm Sunday Roast: 12pm – 6pm Opening Hours: Monday to Thursday 11am – 11pm Friday to Saturday 11am – 1am Sundays 11am – 10.30pm

1305 Lincoln Road, Werrington, Peterborough PE4 6LW Tel: 01733 322006 www.cock-inn.co.uk enquiries@cock-inn.co.uk

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New Werrington ......£7.00 Orton Brimbles ........£7.00 Orton Goldhay..........£7.00 Orton Longueville ....£5.00 Orton Northgate ......£8.00 Orton Southgate ......£8.00 Orton Waterville ......£6.00 Orton Wistow ..........£7.00 Park Farm ..............£6.00 Parnwell ..................£5.00 Paston ....................£5.00 Peakirk....................£9.00 Ravensthorpe ..........£5.00 Stanground..............£5.00 Sugar Way ..............£4.50 Walton ....................£5.00 Welland ..................£5.00 Werrington Village....£6.00 Westwood ..............£5.00 Woodston................£4.00

Barnack ................£14.00 Baston ..................£16.00 Benwick ................£18.00 Bourne ..................£18.00 Coates ..................£15.00 Conington..............£14.00 Crowland ..............£11.00 Deepings ..............£11.00 Elton......................£11.00 Etton........................£9.00 Folksworth ..............£9.50 Fotheringhay ........£17.00 Gedney Hill ............£20.00 Glatton ..................£14.00 Helpston..................£9.50 Holme Village ........£12.00 Kings Cliffe ............£16.00 Langtoft ................£14.00 Marholm..................£6.50 Market Deeping ....£11.00

Maxey ..................£10.00 Nassington ............£13.00 Newborough............£7.00 Northborough ..........£9.50 Oundle ..................£18.00 Ramsey ................£18.00 Sawtry ..................£16.00 Sibson ..................£14.00 Stamford ..............£18.00 Stilton......................£9.50 Tallington ..............£15.00 Thorney ..................£9.50 Ufford....................£12.00 Wansford ..............£11.00 Warmington ..........£15.00 Whittlesey..............£11.00 Wittering................£15.00 Yarwell ..................£12.00 Yaxley......................£7.50

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steve.gonzalez@espmag.co.uk

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The page that says if you're out drinking on New Year’s Eve, don't ever attempt to come home and make yourself a cheese sandwich. I did it once and got half way through eating it before I realised the reason the cheese tasted so plasticy was because I'd accidentally got the 'yellow' plastic sticky tag that goes round the top of a loaf of bread in the sandwich as well.

d

"I'll see your fringe, and raise you an eyebrow"

"Mr. Bond, you persist in defying my efforts to provide an amusing death for you"

AH, MR BOND I'VE BEEN EXPECTING YOU Holly: Do you know him?

Bond: Not socially. His name's Jaws... he kills people

Last month I was invited to a James Bond themed party at the Holiday Inn. When the dress code said: Dress to Thrill, for a laugh me and my 6ft 7in mate Jimbo decided to ditch the traditional tuxedo and bow ties and turn up in 007 fancy dress.

GET ON YOUR BIKES AND RIDE In 2010, my favourite comedy gig was seeing Richard Herring perform his Hitler Moustache show at Radius above the Solstice. The great news is that on Saturday February 26 he'll be returning with his latest stand-up show Christ On A Bike. Herring's comedy has always been an acquired taste, but these last few years have seen him produce arguably his best work. Those of you that saw him perform on consecutive Fridays in Peterborough and Stamford last year will know how good he is and on his website the following day this is what he wrote after visiting our city last year.

"The Peterborough crowd were really lovely and seemed genuinely grateful that I had made the effort to visit their town. I don't think the political message of the show has been greeted so enthusiastically anywhere else and it seemed everyone in the crowd wanted their programme signed. And the team all gathered around me or lay across me to get their photo taken, which was flattering and fun. Enthusiasm and excitement are good qualities.

Peterborough might have been the perfect gig. But alas the multi-storey charged me £1.50 to park there after 6pm, so it's not a patch on Luton. This tour it's all about the parking fees!"

Are you listening Peterborough City Council? Good, because he's coming back on Saturday February 26 (tickets still available, contact the Solstice ) and what a better way to welcome him back than by using the good qualities of enthusiasm and excitement that he associates with our city and let him park for free in the market multi-storey car park? C'mon, we can't be beaten by Luton! www.esp m ag .co.u k ( Ja nuar y )

Me as James Bond circa 1979 wearing a Moonraker space suit I got from Harlequin (complemented with a toy laser gun and a Roger Moore side parting), and Jim as Jaws complete with metal teeth,

braces and skydiving goggles.

OK, so the metal teeth were really a gum-shield covered with tin foil, but the point is you don't get to write the comedy page in Peterborough's premier local monthly magazine without a bit of creative thinking. Even Heart FM's Kev Lawrence – aka the man with the golden tan – who compered the evening was impressed. Cheers Kev for running such a great night and to the Bond girls from Thomas Cook who took part in the photos.

"The man with the golden tan"

"My God, what's Bond doing?"

"I think he's attempting re-entry...to the party sir"

STAND OUT STAND UP So what’s good for a laugh over the next few weeks? How about…

January

20

WHAT’S

ON

STEPHEN K AMOS , CRESSET

Aside from being one of the nation’s favourite faces on the television Stephen is also a prolific writer and performer and in great demand as both a compere and headliner on the comedy circuit. This year Stephen filmed his first solo TV show for the BBC and will be starring in the new Simon Nye sitcom In My Country.

Catch him in live comedy action at the Cresset on January 20. Tickets are £18.50. Box office: 01733 265705.

JENNY ECLAIR, SOUTH HOLLAND CENTRE

February

10

Jenny Eclair, star of I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here is also Grumpy Old Woman extraordinaire. Jenny’s always game for a laugh and returns with her latest show Old Dog, New Tricks at the South Holland Centre in Spalding.

Yes, the old dog of the circuit is trotting around the block once more, proving that she's got what it takes to be an award winner (Crufts 1982). She is also fifty years old and trying not to mind! Catch her on Thursday February 10, tickets are £17.50, £16 groups of eight or more.

Box Office: 01775 764777.

Restaurant • Locally sourced food served daily

• Monday – Sunday - Brunch 10am – 12am, - Lunch 12am – 3pm, - Dinner 5.30pm – 9pm

Bar & Lounge • Selection of fine ales (CAMRA award for excellence)

• Live entertainment every Saturday night • Disco every Friday night

y Moannddaapint

e Pie use win s of ho or glas

£7.50

Friday

d chips Fish an– 7.30pm 5.30pm

£6.95

Tues – Thurs January Sale

2 for 1

On selected menu s

The Lounge is warm and inviting, a home from home with huge leather sofas to sink into!

Boutique Wedding Venue, Conferences, Small to large parties welcome. Restaurant can seat up to 65 guests and can hold 100 guests for evening reception.

16 Market Place, Market Deeping, Peterborough PE6 8EA

Real ales Spitfire, White Dwarf and JHB

Telephone: 01778 343234 E-mail: info@deepingstage.com • www.deepingstage.com

Open every day from 11am Sunday lunch

The ULTIMATE Combat Gaming Experience Airsoft is a military simulation game similar to paintball. It costs a lot less to play, it hurts less and uses realistic looking replica weapons.

3 courses £9.90 adult’s, £7.50 senior citizens/children

Oakacademy FREE Pool certified

every Thurs 6pm onwards

Function room available - please ask for details

Two unique sites and different styles of gaming.

Fight in and around buildings or in the woods and undergrowth.

The games run with two teams, each are given objectives which they have to try and achieve.

Competitive Prices Private, corporate and open days catered for.

01733 247171 www.urbanassault.org.uk www.freefirezone.co.uk email: games@urbanassault.org.uk Airsoft Shop www.fire-support.co.uk

Karaoke / Disco Fri & Sat

• Booking advisable • Live poker league starts 3rd January, 7.30pm

The Crown Inn 749 Lincoln Road, Peterborough, PE1 3HD.

07516 395905

HEALTH and beauty

charlotte.jolly@espmag.co.uk

ESP’s Charlotte Jolly has all the latest health and beauty news…

RECOVER FROM TOP WAYS TO WINTER CHRISTMAS PROOF YOUR SKIN WITH HOLLAND & BARRETT

With winter well and truly here, it’s important to protect your skin from the harsh elements to keep it healthy, glowing and comfortable.

Christmas parties, heavy drinking and over-indulgence taken its toll on your health? Fear not, Holland & Barrett come to the rescue with their brilliant festive first-aid kits – perfect to see you through the new year.

Feeling stressed about what the new year may hold? – try the Frankincense Essential Oil (£11.69 for 10ml) to help relax, uplift and support your nervous system during times of anxiety, stress and nervous tension.

Eaten too much rich food? – Holland & Barrett’s Peppermint Oil capsules (£11.29 for 120 capsules) are ideal and really help to aid digestion.

Need to help your liver recover from all that mulled wine you’ve been drinking? – use Good ‘N’ Natural Milk Thistle (£10.29 for 100 capsules) a powerful antioxidant which helps the regeneration of new healthy cells in the liver, replacing the old, damaged ones.

All the above products are available at local Holland & Barrett stores or online at www.hollandandbarrett.com

BEAT THOSE WINTER BLUES WITH ‘CHEER UP’ Not looking forward to the cold, dreary months ahead? Cheer Up is the ideal solution to help lift your mood and get rid of those new year blues.

The pre-prepared, natural Bach remedy flower essence combination contains various English flower essences, including Sweet Chestnut, Wild Rose and Cherry Plum, designed to help you feel better and improve your mood.

Simply place four drops directly on your tongue, or mix with water, and feel your mood blossom and at only £6.99 it really does make for a much cheaper alternative to jetting off abroad.

Available at 900 Boots stores nationwide, over 400 chemists and health food stores or online at www.balancingblooms.com www.esp m ag .co.u k ( Ja nuar y )

Hydrate

Water

Swap your light, summer moisturiser for a richer, heavier one. Moving from hot to cold conditions and having the central heating on leaves your skin feeling both dry and sore. Moisturise as often as you feel you need to and not just in the morning and evening.

Drinking at least eight glasses of water a day will help to hydrate your skin from within, however leaving a bowl of water by your radiator (especially in your bedroom) will help to ensure there is also moisture in the air which central heating reduces.

Exfoliate Exfoliating in the winter is just as important as any other time of year. If you’re skin is feeling sensitive though, be gentle with it and simply buff it with a dry flannel, helping to rid it of any dry flakes, leaving skin ready for moisturising.

Lovely lips Dry lips often occur during the winter and licking your lips only makes them worse. Use a good lip balm containing barrier ingredients to seal in moisture. If you have really dry and flaky lips, try using a dry toothbrush to exfoliate them – it’ll get rid of the flakes and help to leave them soft. Vaseline is a cheap and effective way of keeping lips smooth and flake free.

TOAST THE NEW YEAR M.A.C STYLE M.A.C’s new colour collection Cham Pale is definitely cause for celebration this year. With shimmering champagne shades to suit all, you’ll shine above the rest with these fabulous products.

From gorgeously girly Lipgelee’s in Sin-tillation and Bubble Lounge, £12.50, to the perfectly elegant Special Reserve highlight powder in Chez Chez Lamé and Rosé Ole, £20.50, you’ll be spoilt for choice.

The collection also includes luxurious skin care products that every girl deserves, delivering ultimate soothing and calming effects. The new Complete Comfort Creme, £22.50, is a super plush facial moisturiser that helps immediately relieve visible redness and hydrates like never before.

So, go on girls treat yourself to a taste of luxury this new year.... you know you want to (I know I certainly do!)

Gym Facilities:

NO join or admining fee FREE 7 d ay trial Open 7 Days

• Cardiovascular Spinning • EFree and Hammer Strength • GroupWeights Training • Boxing Gym and MMA floor • Check website for gym membership and special offers

www.fitnessstation.co.uk

363 Dogsthorpe Road, Peterborough, PE1 3RE

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free consultations that Bea believes are crucial to getting things right.

“It’s very important to assess what clients really want – how much time do they have to spend on their hair to maintain a cut, is the styling for anything special that day? We spend a lot of time asking questions and on actually showing people how to style their hair for themselves.”

There’s a differential pricing structure with the various stylists and as some specialise in more classic styles while others are more avant-garde, there should be a stylist to suit just what you’re looking for – plus students get a 15% discount. So go on a hair adventure at Rumours and achieve that new look you’ve been hoping for.

The talented team at Rumours

ADVENTURES IN HAIR… When your hair looks good you feel good – there’s no two ways about it. A fresh style or a fabulous colour can really give you a boost and a good hair salon is worth travelling to.

It’s always great when you can get city salon expertise and products without city centre prices and parking hassle, so Rumours in Sawtry is certainly worth a try.

Managing Director Bea Turner has been in the business for 30 years and has put together a friendly and talented team. They pride themselves on giving you all the support you need to achieve a manageable look with the back-up of all the latest products and colourings.

“We specialise in getting it right while offering quality, expertise and value,” says Bea. Two of her team have entered national competitions with James setting his sights on the Professional L'Oreal Colour Trophy and Ashleigh, who was trained in the salon, hoping to clinch the L'Oreal Men's Image Award.

You can expect all the leading hair products including Paul Mitchell, L’Oreal professional, Matrix and GHD, plus the salon uses the latest Inoa ammonia-free colouring that’s taken salons by storm. It comes in over 70 shades and guarantees complete colour coverage even on white hair.

It’s the extra touches at Rumours that make the difference like the private colouring area and the full

Rumours Adventures in Hair, 6 Greenways, Sawtry, PE28 5UR

Tel: 01487 830733

OFFER

50

%

OFF

50% off colour services at Rumours in January when booked with a cut and finish.

Just quote ESP when you book.

stunning individual Eyelash Extensions

WhERE it’s aLL aBout thE dog

• frames the eyes • darkens the eyes

new! swarovski Crystal Lashes available in clear or coloured crystals new! glitter Lashes available in various colours (Lasts 2-3 days) new! Vie acid Peel facial all the benefits of a chemical peel without the drawbacks or discomfort of traditional chemical peels ideal for dull uneven skin tone, pigmentation, blemishes, fine lines and wrinkles. a renewing resurfacing treatment

Call the Limes on 01733 311554 for an appointment or more information www.thelimestherapies.com

£4 PER day!

to adVERtisE, CaLL MaggiE on

01733 579707

oR EMaiL hER on MaggiE.gaziano@EsPMag.Co.uk

bookings now being taken by City & Guilds trained dog groomer debbie

• Wash & dry • nail Clipping • full groom / clip / styling January offer – Poodle grooming, full groom and clip of your choice, any size, £20 every friday.

953 Lincoln road, Walton Peterborough Pe4 6af telephone 01733 327777 e-mail: chihuahuapuppies@msn.com web: www.dogrooms.co.uk

stout CERaMiCs

adVERtisE youR BusinEss With PRoMotE youR BusinEss hERE FoR LEss than

the area’s premier dog grooming salon

tiLing sPECiaLists

international make-up artist

Lisa hinks • airbrush make-up • Lily Lolo mineral make-up and makeovers • suntana spray tans • Manicures & Pedicures • bridal and hen parties • Open late nights and weekends Making you a star at a price you can afford! hollywood Glam beauty studio 2 Westwood drive, bourne Pe10 9Qh

Tel: 07952 602145 www.bridalmakeupandhair.co.uk

• all wall and floor tiling • Free written quotation • Est. 1992 CaLL BEn on:

01733 202699 MoBiLE: 07759 933141

www.stoutceramics.co.uk

Karen Devine

AS SEEN ON

TV

karen.devine@espmag.co.uk

GMTV, LK Today and UKTV Style’s ‘Spa of Embarrassing Illnesses’

Happy New Year, I hope this is one of your best ever! Mine has got off to a great start with a new addition to the family, my adorable Westie puppy Bella. The only thing not so adorable has been her delicate digestive system which meant some little ‘treats’ left around the house for me to tread in until I found the right food for her!

Bella is unlikely to be alone when it comes to post Christmas tummy grumbles. I suspect many of you are also suffering after all the rich food and drinks. We’ll no doubt be flooded with ‘detox’ cures this month (most of them a load of nonsense). As someone who runs her own detox retreats I definitely won’t be heading down detox alley this January, or even February. It’s OK if you’re heading off to warmer climes to retreat, revive and renew but whilst it’s sub zero here your body needs ‘extra’ food just to keep warm. We need more cooked/warm food to sustain body heat, plus your body may be exposed to more physical and psychological challenges at this time of year such as over-work, extra financial pressures and other stress factors which can weaken the adrenal

glands (glands of stress) making you feel pretty fatigued.

If your gut is unhappy you’ll feel unhappy, there is a gut to brain connection so over-indulging on the wrong foods will not only make you feel bloated, gassy and heavy it’ll most likely make you feel

“I suspect many of you are also suffering after all the rich food and drinks over Christmas” sluggish, low in mood and like you want to spend the rest of the winter under the duvet!

replacing with nutritious wholegrains such as rice, quinoa, pumpernickel bread (the black German rye) oat cakes and sweet potato may just lighten your digestive load but will still provide good nutrients. It’s also good to take a break from sugar, caffeine and alcohol.

Whilst there are stronger elimination diets such as eliminating dairy and red meat, always take advice to ensure you’re getting the correct nutrients to replace them.

Having said that for those of you that like to have a few days/weeks of lighter foods and you are consciously eating other nutritious foods then it shouldn’t be a problem for most to take out for a short time.

This is NOT detox, it’s merely taking away some heavy to digest foods and some of the foods we eat on a daily basis which can cause hidden annoyances such as bloating, fatigue, irritability, low immunity, skin complaints and much more. It can also help with better absorption of goodness from your foods.

It’s not the best time of year to load up on raw foods and juices, however getting a little raw food from nuts, seeds, soaked grains, veg and fruits are nutritious and full of vitamins, minerals and fibre.

If you do want to add in juicing then add in some warming spices such as ginger, nutmeg etc. Take hot water if you’re not a lover of cold water like me, and add in those herbal teas too.

You don’t have to load up on starchy potatoes and bread for the extra food though, in fact by taking out some of the hard to digest foods you can lighten the load a little. There are many ways to eat extra in winter and feel lighter at the same time. Try hearty soups, warming porridge, healthy curries with warming spices, lighter meats like fish or add in lentils/beans to stews along with extra veg in place of starchy potatoes.

Karen

You may find that reducing bread and other wheat produce such as pasta and cous cous and

For more about detox retreats go to www.devinedetox.co.uk or www.karendevine.co.uk

So before you part with your pounds on products claiming to be ‘detox’ stop to think about the season we’re in – we need a lot of heat to give us the energy in what could be a very cold, long winter!

Best of health for 2011,

Karen has a diploma in nutritional medicine, nutritional therapeutics and homotoxicology; she is a member of the British Association of Nutritional Therapists and runs her own private practice.

Why not make

FUNdraising YOUR New Year’s resolution?

Aside from being an ESP contributor my main job’s as a local fundraiser for Sue Ryder Care in Peterborough, so I’m often encouraging people to fundraise for the charity. The most common reasons some say “no” is that they feel they don’t have the time or energy, and to be honest, some people see the idea as being quite boring.

Well, during the last twelve months I’ve done a bungee jump, ran the London Marathon, and the Great Eastern Run (as Wonder Woman!) so I can promise you fundraising is far from being dull, and it honestly doesn’t have to take up much of your time or energy either.

Last January, many local people or businesses made it their goal to reach a certain amount of money for Sue Ryder Care by the end of the year, and I highly recommend you consider doing it yourself. I’m regularly told that companies raising money for our charity feel more like a team. It’s taught employees new skills, and most importantly has been fun.

charity calendar has been done many times before, but as far as I know, it’s not been done with middle aged men wearing nothing but mankinis. The idea was so popular with local businesses; the pub was able to raise £3,000 just in sponsorship – that’s not including the money collected for calendar sales.

Also, you may have heard about George Bingham who attempted to break the Guinness World Record for running the London Marathon in the tallest costume dressed as the Angel of the North. He may have been beaten by a 20ft giraffe but still raised over £3,000 for our charity.

I recently had the pleasure of meeting 11 year-old Charlie Green, who has his sights set on a DJ-ing career. He organised a charity disco in memory of his mum, doing all the DJ-ing himself, even sorting out the publicity by doing a radio interview and raised £650 for Sue Ryder Care.

So why not try fundraising as your New Year’s resolution? The possibilities of what you can do are endless, and hopefully I’ve proved it can also be a lot of fun. If you’d like any help just give me a call on 01733 330060 or email Michael.clarke@suerydercare.org.

It’s only through help from the local community that Sue Ryder Care is able to make a difference.

Staff at the Five Horseshoes pub in Barholm, decided on an idea that was certainly original! The concept of a funny

Mikey Clarke

The Barholm Boys

www.esp m ag .co.u k ( Ja nuar y )

SCREENSCENE

MOVIE

127 HOURS

Previews

Released: January 7 Cast: James Franco, Amber Tamblyn, Treat Williams Director: Danny Boyle

Released: January 14 Cast: Seth Rogen, Christoph Waltz, Jay Chou Director: Michel Gondry Despite being plagued by production problems and release date delays this reimagining of the much-loved Bruce Lee TV series could still sting the box-office in the New Year.

Co-writer and star Seth Rogen (Knocked Up) has taken his pet project to the big screen with Jay Chou taking on the infamous Kato role, Inglourious Basterds’ Oscar-winner Christoph Waltz on bad guy duties and Be Kind Rewind helmer Michel Gondry in the director’s chair.

After the mysterious death of his wealthy media magnate father (Tom Wilkinson), Britt Reid (Rogen) becomes the vigilante Green Hornet, and with the help of martial arts expert Kato, a new secretary (Cameron Diaz), and a wealth of destructive weaponry and clever gadgets, he aims for vengeance over Waltz’s gritty underworld kingpin.

Whether cinema-goers plump for this or wait for another ‘green’ superhero – Ryan Reynolds’ Green Lantern – in the summer remains to be seen…

gavin.miller @espmag.co.uk

THE NEXT THREE DAYS

THE CABIN IN THE WOODS

Released: January 5

Released: January 14

Russell Crowe attempts to break his innocent wife (Elizabeth ‘Zack and Miri Make a Porno’ Banks) out of jail after being set-up for her boss’s murder, in this thriller from Crash director Paul Haggis, which co-stars Liam Neeson and rapper RZA.

New Thor actor Chris Hemsworth flexes his acting muscles (well kinda) in this horror-thriller that reportedly puts a new twist on the ‘young-people-stranded-inthe-woods’ sub-genre (also in 3D), and is written by forthcoming Avengers director Joss Whedon.

www.esp m ag .co.u k ( Ja nuar y )

After his major success with Slumdog Millionaire a couple of years back, Oscar-winning director Danny Boyle has created that award-time buzz again.

This time he tackles the true story of mountain climber Aron Ralston (played by Spider-Man’s James Franco) who has to make a life or death decision after his arm becomes stuck under a fallen boulder in an isolated Utah canyon.

In the next five days Ralston reminisces about his life before deciding if he can extricate himself – or in layman’s terms ‘chop his hand off’ – from the rock, climb out of the 65 foot deep gorge and trek eight miles back to civilisation.

Piece of cake, right?

CONVICTION

TRUE GRIT

MORNING GLORY

Released: January 14

Released: January 14

Released: January 21

Hilary ‘Million Dollar Baby’ Swank tries to recreate her Oscar-winning performances in this heartwrenching drama which sees her star as a full-time mum exhausting herself at law school in an attempt to help release her wrongfullyaccused-of-murder brother (Sam Rockwell).

Oscar-winning No Country For Old Men directors Joel and Ethan Coen take on John Wayne’s True Grit in this modern remake, which sees Jeff Bridges’ US Marshal and Matt Damon’s Texas Ranger take on Josh Brolin’s sharpshooting bad guy after the father of a young girl is slain.

Rachel McAdams (Sherlock Holmes) headlines as a young producer trying to revive ailing morning TV show Daybreak (no, not the one with Chiles and Bleakley), complete with warring cohosts (Harrison Ford and Diane Keaton), in this dramady from Notting Hill director Roger Michell.

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

ONL REVIEINE WS For the la game test movie, D review s from VD and ESP, vi www.e sit: spmag .co.uk /review s

ASSASSIN’S CREED: BROTHERHOOD

RED DEAD REDEMPTION: UNDEAD NIGHTMARE

(X360/PS3/PC) Out now

(X360/PS3) Out now

This emphatically builds on one of last year’s best games – giving fans of Assassin’s Creed II a welcome Christmas present. But while there are plenty of notable points in the game – a healthy 20 hour-plus game time, ability to join forces with fledgling assassins, a unique multiplayer experience and improved graphics – it doesn’t offer anything massively different in gameplay terms, and definitely isn’t AC3.

With Ezio relocating to Rome, Brotherhood is competently more than DLC or a cash-in attempt, and enthusiasts will undoubtedly love showing their gaming killer instincts once again.

#####

With Red Dead Redemption heading a lot of Game Of The Year lists – this expansion will probably do the same with many 2010 DLC charts.

Now available as a lower-priced retail game, those geniuses at Rockstar have expanded outlaw John Marston’s world into a zombie-infested living hell – that adds around seven hours extra playing experience, along with a couple of new multiplayer modes.

SONIC COLOURS (WII/DS) Out now It’s been around twenty years since you nearly got into fisticuffs debating whether Sonic or Mario was better on the Mega Drive or SNES respectively.

Since those days the lovable Italian plumber has trounced Sega’s mascot – but at least the spikey-haired hedgehog is fighting back with his best outing since the early nineties.

Boasting some of the best graphics, controls and level design – bar some irksome latter stages – seen in any Sonic game, this mixture of 2 and 3D blends perfectly as you take on Eggman in his interstellar theme park.

Throw in a great intro, cut-scenes and voice work within suitably eerie locales – and this is one nightmare you won’t want to wake up from.

If you’d given up on Sonic, this will restore your faith with a ‘boom’.

#####

#####

KINECT & LAUNCH GAMES REVIEWED Out Now for Xbox 360 With Nintendo’s Wii surprising us all with its unparalleled success four years ago it was only a matter of time before Microsoft took on the much sought-after motion-controlling demographic.

Microsoft has undoubtedly raised the bar with its attempt at the market, with a sensor unit that is controller free – and simply detects your body movements.

So how does Kinect fare when you delve into the recently released launch titles?

First up is Kinect Adventures ##### (which comes bundled with the unit for around £130). It’s simply an amiable mini-game collection that is a great introduction to the Kinect world (with River Rush, Rallyball and Reflex

Ridge arguably being the headliners), but does wear a little thin quite quickly.

There’s also a distinct difference in the sports offerings with Kinect Sports ##### providing an allround more polished experience (football, ten-pin bowling, table tennis, boxing etc) compared to Motion Sports ##### which fails in the responsiveness stakes with the major sports – but will win some fans with hang-gliding and horse riding.

Four notable launch titles that make good use of the unit are Kinectimals #####, which is like Nintendogs on a HD big-screen with cubs from the main cat families and is ideal for youngsters, and Dance Central ##### is one of the best of the immersive dance moves ilk, with the

easier Cascada’s Evacuate the Dancefloor to the ridiculously hard ones like Snoop Dogg’s Drop It Like It’s Hot (which made me look like a complete novice on my first go). Sonic Free Riders ##### continues the blue hedgehog’s 2010 resurgence with a notable family-influenced hoverboarding game which makes decent use of Kinect as you crouch and jump with Sonic and pals, with Kinect Joy Ride ##### providing an accessibly colourful driving entry that’s good fun, but falls short when it comes to controls consistency.

Sadly the worst launch title falls to Fighters Uncaged ##### which is

a woeful attempt at hitting the more hardcore market with its illegal fighting background that looks good on paper – until unresponsive controls leads to a big ‘miss’ instead of ‘hit’ affair.

As expected – particularly after the success of Wii Fit – there are a couple of fitness-related games worthy of your

attention. Your Shape: Fitness Evolved ##### is a serious interactive exercise game from Ubisoft, and if you can overcome some of the game’s shortcomings – such as repetition and some tedious body recognition – this is one of the best at what it does. The Biggest Loser: Ultimate Workout ##### on the other hand is slightly different with its sights on serious calorie-burning and dieting, and works equally as well, if a little rough round the edges.

VERDICT: With added excellent implementation into your Xbox Live menus (including basic voice controls),

the Kinect has opened a whole new gaming experience with titles that will only get better – despite the majority of the opening crop yet to make full use of the technology on offer. Some may say it’s a little expensive, but it’s a nice bit of kit that’s here to stay – and I actually prefer it to the Wii. #####

www.es p mag .co.u k ( Janua r y )

CAUGHT IN THE ACT?

WHAT A YEAR! As we celebrate 12 years of producing ESP Magazine and keeping you up to date with everything that’s happening, we’ve had a look back over 2010 and seen we’ve been out and about more than ever.

ESP is all about supporting local events and shouting about all the good stuff this area has to offer. The ESP promo girls and our photographers, Pep Cipriano, Mike Harris, Lara Johnson and Emma Bothamley have been at loads of great occasions capturing you in the act of having a damn good time!

Here’s a few of the photos we just couldn’t cram into previous issues. In the summer the ESP girls were lapping up the sun, giving out goody bags and celebrating the return of the Deepings Raft Race. Then there was the great Itter Park Fun Day which was another big success. Voyager School in Walton has hosted some great nights out combined with screenings at their new community cinema and our new Face of ESP Lauren Hughes was invited along to join in a glamorous evening at the showing of Sex And The City 2.

Our Man About Town Pep Cipriano couldn’t be kept away from the city’s fantastic Italian Festival which saw hair shows, music and lots of lovely food in Cathedral Square.

Then as the weather turned chillier we were still out an about giving out goody bags to huge crowds at Ferry Meadows who turned out for another stunning Firework Fiesta.

From the Midnight Walk to Peterborough Festival and from Peterborough Beer Festival to the city lights switch-on ESP has been there and we’re very excited about seeing what 2011 has to offer. See you out there!

VIEW PAPARAZZI ONLINE All the photos taken by the Papazazzi crew go up on our new website www.espmag.co.uk – even those we haven’t managed to fit into the mag. The photos are available to order too, so if you find any particularly embarrassing ones of your mates, you can get a copy to keep!

www.esp m ag .co.u k ( Ja nuar y )

Proudly sponsored by

www.es p mag .co.u k ( Janua r y )

CELEBS celebs @espmag.co.uk

this, Duffy says simply – “I’m not the same as I was back then; I was just a girl back then.”

And reflecting on the new album – “At one point I thought ‘is this going to be an indie record?’ That’s what it was beginning to sound like.”

Endlessly showcases songs that are more up-tempo and dance floor-friendly than anything the 26-year-old from Wales has done before, as well as stripped-back, acoustic-led numbers that feature Duffy at her most philosophical. Lyrically, it’s more empowered, heartfelt and worldly-wise than her earlier material.

Well, well, well if it isn’t Duffy back in the charts and the hearts of fans. ESP’s Susan Saunders finds out what she’s been up to.

In the two years since the release of her first, chart-topping album, Rockferry, Duffy’s been keeping herself busy and keeping us eagerly awaiting her return. If winning a Grammy, three Brits and cracking America wasn’t enough, Duffy has been busy pleasing some of the 6.5million people who bought her album, by gigging and touring.

Duffy’s second album, Endlessly, if you haven’t heard it, shows several new sides to the successful soul singer. When asked about the differences from her first album to

Despite these differences, the new songs still encapsulate the soulful, organic sounds that we come to expect when we think of Duffy.

The ten album songs, recorded in just three weeks, were co-written and co-produced by Duffy, along with esteemed songwriter Albert Hammond (famous for big hits such as The Air That I Breathe and When I Need You plus many others).

“I’m very excited because I really think this record solidifies certain parts of me that I’ve needed to solidify,” explains Duffy. “I think the next few years in my life are going to be the telling years as to who I truly become as an artist. It’s one thing being catapulted on the public scene and the people’s consciousness; it’s another thing really setting your mark as you develop through the years.”

Duffy is one of only nine solo female artists in UK chart history to hold the number one

spot on the singles and album charts simultaneously – with Mercy and Rockferry.

But despite all of her success, she admits she misses the simpler things in life that she was used to before her fame: “Being on an empty beach, walking with only myself and my thoughts for miles around, but that being said, I never have any regrets.”

Added to the awards cabinet are awards for Q Magazine’s Breakthrough Act of the Year and the Mojo awards Song of the Year for Mercy but Duffy says that aside from the glamour, being a popstar has its downsides as well.

“I guess it’s the fact that nothing can be erased. Whatever you do will stay around forever; from this interview to whatever you do in your private life. I’m very cautious of that. I’m fully aware that it could always be something that I regret; when I look back when I’m 60 because of the age of the internet. I’d have to look back at myself coming out of a nightclub really drunk and half naked. That’s why I’m very cautious of doing those things. I try to keep my private life to myself, so that I can keep my vices to myself… If I’m going to go out and be young and wild. I just can’t afford to do it because it will jeopardise what I stand by.”

For now though, Duffy’s looking forward to plans for a possible tour from February onwards.

Keep your eye out for new single releases in the coming months; the album Effortlessly is out now.

Quality hairdressing at affordable prices

Taking your bridal dreams and turning them into reality haiR

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• Hair Colouring • Extensions • Perming • Boys & Girls • Gents • Wedding Packages

• Facials • Waxing • Massage • Spray Tanning • Wedding Packages

Maison de la Bride is an exciting bridal boutique with exquisite designer bridal gowns, including Ronald Joyce, made to order. e boutique is a family run business offering a very professional service, with over 30 years combined experience.

£50 oFF Opening Hours Monday – Closed Tuesday & Wednesday – 9am ‘til 5pm Thursday & Friday – 9am ‘til 7pm Saturday – 9am ‘til 4pm

Wonderful hair Extensions £50 off a full head of hair extensions from 1st Jan ‘til – 31st To receive this fantastic offer quote EsP when you ring The Mop Shop.

Look good, Feel good

01733 566790

52 Lincoln Rd, Peterborough, PE1 2RY

Telephone: 01733 346415

Situated near City Centre (opposite Clarke’s florist) 163 New Road, Woodston, Peterborough, PE2 9HH

Open Tuesday – Saturday 10am-6pm, Monday by appointment only, late night appointments available.

Parking available at Queensgate, Craig Street and Westgate House.

Malaysian & Thai Restaurant Cocktail Bar

Specialists for parties in Peterborough

An unforgettable journey to the Far East where you can enjoy the fantastic exotic flavours.

Come and relax at our bar with a Polynesian cocktail in its tranquil surroundings. You can enjoy your business lunch or even celebrate a special occasion, and choose from our extensive menu. Or you can also book for your own private function, and all parties will be catered for.

• WATCH OUT FOR OUR NEW MENUS! • FOR OUR LATEST OFFERS, kINDLY REFER TO OUR WEBSITE WWW.MALAYBA.COM BACk BY POPULAR DEMAND! • LUNCHTIME OFFER: MON – SUN, 12 NOON – 2.30PM, 2 COURSES INCLUDING DRINk – £9.50. CHECk WEBSITE FOR FULL DETAILS. Opening hours Mon – sat sun

01733 561806 All our food is free of additives and preservatives and we use halal meat.

12.00 noon – 2.30pm, 5.30pm – 11.00pm 12.00 noon – 2.30pm, 5.30pm – 10.00pm

Experience Paradise

at Malayba

44 broadway Peterborough Pe1 1rt email: malayba1@btconnect.com Website : www.malayba.com

Our food is simple in many ways, yet intricate in others and changes every couple of weeks. It’s all in the preparation and so much work goes into that well before the customer ever arrives.

Andrew Corrick – the Cherry House

CHERRY PiCkEd finE fOOd It was that experience that put him in good stead to take over a restaurant of his own. After a brief spell in Berkshire he realised the hotel industry was no longer for him and he returned to Peterborough, took the plunge and bought the Cherry House in Werrington, then running at a loss. He hasn’t looked back since.

cuisine without the small portions – you’ll see just why some customers would be prepared to spend more!

The menu is English with a French influence and now that Andrew has two extra chefs to help out he’ll be working on developing his menus further this year to keep up with the trends.

Seventeen years is a great milestone for any business these days – “I didn’t set out with the intention of running my own restaurant,” says Andrew, “but I’m glad I have.” So just what has made the difference?

“Being busy motivates me,” explains Andrew, “so I’m here with my finger on the pulse. Many chefs don’t have a clue about running a business but I work really hard keep my eye on the ball.

“We’ve managed to make it one of the top dining destinations in the area and continue to build on our reputation by offering consistency,” says Andrew, “I’m pleased to say we have plenty of repeat business as a result!”

The words – “you should be charging more for this” – coming from one of your customers must be something a restaurant owner dreams of. Andrew Corrick from the Cherry House is lucky enough to have had it said to him, but serving great quality food at reasonable prices seems to have been the right recipe for his success.

For the last 17 years the quality of Andrew’s cooking has also been enjoyed by several celebs, sadly no red carpet at the restaurant, but through his outside catering at regular press days for film companies. He’s met many film stars as a result but has kept his feet on the ground and his focus on providing a great dining experience here in Peterborough.

Andrew has been a chef for 17 years, he started out cutting his culinary teeth in hotels in London before taking a job as the head chef at what was then the Swallow hotel in Peterborough – “That was one of the best times in my career. The manager really let me run my own kitchen and you rarely get that opportunity these days,” says Andrew.

The Cherry House is a gorgeously quaint looking cottage with low beams, and cosy fires and can seat 70 covers in one sitting and has proved as popular for parties as it has couples on a romantic meal out. With a fixed price menu with three courses and coffee for £26.95 you know what to budget for, and when you taste the quality – a mixture of classical and nouvelle

www.esp m ag .co.u k ( Ja nuar y )

“Our food is simple in many ways, yet intricate in others and changes every couple of weeks. It’s all in the preparation and so much work goes into that well before the customer ever arrives.”

Cherry House

125 Church Street, Werrington, Peterborough.

Tel: 01733 571721

6 Westgate, Peterborough, PE1 1Ra

tel: 01733 342469

For breakfast, lunch or dinner come dine with us for succulent steaks, fabulous fish, sandwiches and fresh food cooked just how you like it.

Chargrilled Steak Fish Vegetarian

Open 8am – 4pm daily 6.30pm – late Thursday, Friday and Saturday

‘A dining experience with a difference’ – it’s in the detail

Fully licensed

Lunchtime Tuesday to Friday – 12pm to 2pm (2 course option) Evening Dinner Tuesday to Friday - 7.00pm to 10.30pm, Saturday 6.30pm to 10.30pm 3 courses includes coffee & petit fours £26.95 3 course Sunday lunch, includes coffee & petit fours £19.95 Bookings required

START AND END yOuR DAy AT NORTH EAST CORNER

125 Church Street,Werrington, Peterborough 01733 571721 www.cherryhouserestaurant.co.uk

Look at our fab offers on

The Cherry House Restaurant

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exclusive north indian cuisine, fresh and true to its origins, prepared using traditional methods.

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53 Westgate, Peterborough, PE1 1QA Telephone: 01733 342800 • www.thebanyantree-uk.com

Expect some exciting changes at Malayba on Broadway in the coming weeks as the restaurant ups its game with a few changes and the introduction of new Vietnamese dishes to it’s menu.

Malayba started out offering a mix of Malaysian and Thai but in future they’ll be replacing the Thai dishes with lighter, fresher dishes from Vietnam bringing a whole new flavour to city centre dining. These dishes are also seen as a healthier option – something we’ll all appreciate after all that festive over-indulgence!

There’ll also be a more stylish approach to the way food is served with individual starters, artistic presentation and even better customer service.

Look out too for special links with the Broadway theatre which re-opens in February when Malayba will be linking up for dinner and show offers – we can’t wait!

4 STAR SUCCESS FOR QUEENS HEAD INN

FOOD

MALAYBA INTRODUCES VIETNAMESE DISHES

food @espmag.co.uk

HOLE IN THE WALL IS BACK! After many months of closure we’re pleased to see the Hole In The Wall in Stamford is back and open as a new bar and restaurant.

What a great start to the year for the Queens Head Inn at Nassington near Peterborough as they celebrate being awarded four stars and a rosette for culinary excellence. The AA made the award during a secret overnight visit to the Queens Head following its application for membership. The inspector was particularly complimentary about the quality of the 28-dayaged steaks grilled to perfection in the Josper charcoal oven.

Now under new ownership this great little spot along Cheyne Lane looks set to be revitalised.

The restaurant has a contemporary feel and is looking lovely. It’s open for lunches and evening meals and has a Sunday menu which includes not only your favourite roasties but also other main meals such as stuffed Portobello mushrooms or fisherman’s pie, plus you can have three courses for £18.50.

They’re not stopping there though and have their sights set on achieving two tosettes this year! Joint owner Paul Smyth and his team are clearly delighted and said – “The award is recognition of the hard work and efforts put in by all members of the team, but especially by the chefs led by Duncan Hooper. It was especially welcome just before Christmas and will inspire us to continue to improve during 2011 and become the pub restaurant of choice for customers in the area.”

The Queens Head has recently been refurbished so if you haven’t visited for a while take a look and try out the AA approved excellent à la carte menu – it’s available every day of the week plus there are two-course lunchtime specials for just £12. www.queensheadnassington.co.uk

Lunches include everything from a tasty range of sandwiches, sharing platters and a homemade beef burger through to fish and chips and ploughmans. For evening diners expect steaks, sausages and beef pie through to moules mariniere and stuffed peppers with a range of hand made desserts to follow.

DINE @ THE COCK INN Not only has the Cock Inn in Werrington re-opened with a stylishly refurbished interior, the food menu has been updated too. You can relax next to the fire, and enjoy a hearty meal from just £5. Why not try their delicious Tagliatelle with a cream and mushroom sauce, only £5.50, with a side of chips, potatoes, mash or seasonal veg and salad? Or if you fancy something lighter (for you and your pocket!), select your favourite filling for a hot baguette or jacket potato – there’s even a menu just for the kids. They’re also taking Christmas party bookings, with a choice of warming festive meals to suit all. For any more info on what they have to offer, call 01733 322006.

50 OFF %

at

Best Western Orton Hall Hotel The Village Orton Longueville Peterborough PE2 7DN

t: 01733 391 111

ALL FOOD PURCHASES IN THE RAMBLEWOOD INN WHEN YOU SPEND £25 OR MORE

The ESP Reader Offer is only valid when you spend £25 or more on food from Thursday 6th January to Sunday 20th February 2011. The discount 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. Alternatively log onto www.espmag.co.uk and click on the Ramblewood logo on the home page to print out your own voucher.

TEXT HOTLINE 07762 147679

Normal text rates apply

Winter warmer £3.75 Roast dinner Mon - Fri, 12 - 2pm. usual menu also available.

The Golden Pheasant

due to popular demand we are extending the offer through the month of January!

Introducing the newest eatery in Peterborough city centre ‘Sidings Brasserie’ located in the Great Northern Hotel.

Offering you, the diner, homemade specialities sourced using only the finest of local produce, we pride ourselves on using only the freshest local ingredients delivered to your table under the watchful eye of our Head Chef.

Let us invite you the ESP reader to spend £25 on dinner for 2* in Sidings Brasserie and receive a complimentary bottle of house wine.

Simply quote ESP

reception@thegreatnorthernhotel.co.uk

* Not including drinks not in conjunction with any other offer.

Live Music in the bar in January 14th Murray - back by popular demand!

21st The Collaborators - fiddling fun - 60's, 70's and lots of covers • Lots of special meal deals, give us a call to find out more • Early Doors Special – All beers £2.50 per pint, 5pm ‘til 6pm Monday to Friday LUNCHTIME SPECIAL AND EARLY BIRDS • Lunchtime special 12-2pm Mon - Fri plus full menu • Early bird 6-7pm Mon-Fri plus full menu 6-9pm • Sat Food served from 12-9pm Sun food served 12-6pm • Seasonal A La Carte menu freshly cooked local produce • Pit-stop for Green Wheel cycle route • Extended patio and children play area • Open all day Fri, Sat and Sun

Events Marquee For hire, our fully serviced events marquee, for weddings, conferences, parties, in fact it’s the perfect setting for any occasion and is open all year round.

Main Road, Etton, Peterborough. Tel: 01733 252387 www.thegoldenpheasant.net

CLUBLAND

ON CLOUD NINE A one of a kind night, Heaven Eleven, will be happening on New Year’s Eve, with a city centre venue being transformed into a space to rival the most glitzy of London clubs, with smooth groove, funky R‘n’B and classic house from Adam Smith, DJ Kimmy and Lee Picton. Open till sunrise with private glass booths and elevated V.I.P tables available, Angels on Northminster Road is giving the lap dancers the night off and is being transformed into a venue suitable for all party people. Tickets £10. For details of booths, text or call 07507 994445 or email guy_last@hotmail.com

CUT UP @ CENTRAL Look out for the biggie at Central in Stamford and get ready to hit the town with your new pay packet for a mash up big style. On Saturday January 29 the stars of Ministry of Sound and Radio One, the Cut Up Boys, bring their best dance anthems to the club so don’t miss the big mix!

SHADES OF RHYTHM @ HALO Halo will be taken over by Diamond Life on December 26 and they’re bringing their massively successful Blend brand to the club. Blend mixes old skool and nu skool styles and headlining is Peterborough’s very own legends of the dancefloor, Shades of Rhythm. A central part of the late 80s and

early 90s rave scene, the childhood friends are still going strong and will be bringing a live PA and DJ set to Halo. Joining them will be Jay Heal, Darren James and Benji Ionnatta playing old skool classics and upfront house and electro. Entry £3 before 10.30pm, £5 after.

JACKSON PARTY @ FLARES It’s time to celebrate the King of Pop and Moonwalk down to Flares on Broadway this Boxing Day December 26. Get dressed up as the legendary MJ and see who can dance in the moonlight. You’ll get a free MJ glove (while stocks last) with each purchase of a Smirnoff Green Apple Cocktail and Corkys are £1.75 each all night. Then on New Year’s Eve it’s Pure Gold – dress in gold, and enjoy drinks offers and freebies at the city’s party venue.

NEW YEAR’S EVE @ LOADED Loaded in Spalding has a big party night planned for New Year’s Eve – prepare to be showered with confetti and balloons at the stroke of midnight – pop balloons and you might just find you’ve won a fab prize or two!

It all kicks off at 8pm with late closing of course. DJ Nick T will be on the decks in Loaded and DJ Andy Woolsey will be in Retro. Tickets bought online act as queue jump and guaranteed entry www.loadednightclub.com

FROM D‘N’B TO DONK 4Cross are hosting a resident’s night at Cub Dissident on January 21, featuring D‘n’B on the decks and the winner of the MC Competition on the mic. There’s an open decks night at Club Dissident on January 22 and on January 28, Wonkey Donkey returns to Club Dissident to bring you hard style, bounce and donk.

IN SEARCH OF SPACE @ DISSIDENT The In Search of Space tour calls in at Club Dissident on January 29. The national D‘n’B tour has DJs including Original Sin, Kallista, Al C Haribo, Sizey D and Dss, with MCs Eksman, Wynde Dapper, Jooka 3d and Sn+per. There’ll be dancers, CD giveaways and amazing decor, all for the price of £7 on the door.

CALLING ALL CAPRICORNS The Hennessy Crew host their first dance of the year at Club Revolution on January 8 and they’re presenting Mr. Mention, and his new sound, Major Damage, for the first tie in Peterborough. As the dance has been named the Capricorn Affair, all Capricorns get in free – make sure you bring proof of your date of birth if this applies. The music policy is hip-hop, R‘n’B, soca, afro beats and funky house.

good MusiC - good dEaLs - good tiMEs

Sat 29th January Ministry Of Sound and Radio 1 stars the Cut up boys take over Central with the biggest Mash ups & dance anthems!

FREE entry &

Buy One Get One FREE throughout January Central is free b4 11pm & bOGOf bottles all night, every Wed, thurs and fri.

Look out for our major refit coming

soon!

BROWNES EVERY NIGHT

£1 Drinks

£1 A DRINk - Vk / CARLSBERG / VS FLAVOURS / WILD SHOOTERS / DOUBLE UP SPIRITS WED & THURSDAY - ALL NIGHT FRIDAY - TILL 10.30 ( 3 bottles £5 after ) SATURDAY - till 10 ( 3 bottles £5 after ) BROWNES - THE ORIGINAL PARTY VENUE

CALL FOR VIP HEN AND BIRTHDAY ENTRY

R.O.A.R – management reserve the right to withdraw promotions and nights without prior notice – over 18s only. Join our Facebook group.

www.centralnightclub.com

Andy Slater’s

andy.slater@espmag.co.uk

The band is an intelligent one, they know their music and its roots and what it is steeped in and talking to them you understand that the suits and style of music is not a fad or gimmick, they’re first and foremost fans of the music they’re representing. Craig Murphy is in fact an avid collector of old acoustic blues and has extensive knowledge of that genre.

“The Malingerers are fine purveyors of the type of country I love”

When it comes to live music Peterborough has a thriving scene and some great quality musicians.

ESP’s Andy Slater knows some of the best and this month he’s mingling with The Malingerers…

There are two words in my humble opinion that should never be fused together musically and they are western and country. Country has a fine history of telling real stories about real people and reflecting on a life that was very often poverty-

www.esp m ag .co.u k ( Ja nuar y )

ridden and hard. Country and western is full to the brim with schmaltz, sequins and saccharine.

The Malingerers are fine purveyors of the type of country I love – gritty, blues riddled, true to life songs with a dose of humour to lighten the mood. Dressed in fine suits the band has a kind of Vaudeville musichall look about them which adds to the theatre of their performances.

Formed out of the remnants of The Surgens the band had its first full gig in February 2009 as Andy Donovan recalls – “We went out to a few open mic nights first, just three of us to test it out. We were used to playing in pubs full of noisy people with The Surgens but this was quite scary playing acoustic to an attentive crowd.”

The band is made up of Steve Donovan, Julian Stone, Craig Murphy, Andy Donovan and songwriter Kevin Murphy who told me – “Although it is country we mix in bluegrass, acoustic blues, skiffle and a bit of rockabilly, we are offformula really. A lot of the songs of that era (we are talking 30s-50s here) were written out of hard times and I guess that’s what I do when I write songs, just tell a story.”

Their individual history covers bands such as Pleasureheads, Jack Nicholson, Plastic Hip, Angry Man, The Dead Rabbits and the aforementioned Surgens which adds up to a talented bunch of musicians. “I was in Plastic Hip,” recalls Steve. “I did toasties and cocktails… I was meant to be sampling but that was already done so I made toasties and cocktails for the crowd.” That somehow still reflects on the band, they enjoy what they’re doing and although sometimes the subject material may be a tad morose they do it with a smile on their faces.

Andy and Julian, who plays drums in the band and is a singer songwriter in his own right, also talked about the harmonies that they try to perfect. “There are no set rules or order, if it feels right and sounds good it goes in.” Steve tends to agree –“It is difficult to get it spot on but when it does work it sounds great, especially on the bluegrass numbers.”

Having been in one of the city’s most popular bands, The Surgens, it can be difficult to launch something new especially if you go from an electrically driven style to an acoustic one. “It’s gone down really well. We’ve carried a few of The Surgens’ slower numbers across and people recognise them which helped,” notes Kevin.

Some may have said that it would be tough to follow a successful band with one that plays a dustbowl of life from a long time ago, but it works.

Maybe it reflects the mood of the country at the moment, I don’t know. They play to packed pubs whichever way you look at it and as a fan of the music they represent I can’t help but like The Malingerers.

You can check out their website at www.themalingerers.co.uk where you can download tracks or buy their excellent CD, The Early Tapes.

PUB GUIDE N ew s THE PLOUGHMAN WERRINGTON

We’re pleased to hear that the Ploughman in Werrington has received some great news, as they’ve been granted an extension on their lease. This means that they’ll be around for a few more years, so all locals still have plenty of time to enjoy the entertainment and real ales they have to offer. They’re one of four pubs nominated for the CAMRA Pub Of The Year award, and also have a beer festival planned for the first week in July – already planning ahead!

DOLPHIN’S EARLY BIRD DEAL If money’s too tight to mention but you’re still desperate to get out of the house (and away from the oven!) The Dolphin in Stamford has a great deal.

They’ve extended their early bird menu offering main meals for just £3.50 from Monday to Thursday for diners dropping by between 12pm and 7pm throughout January and February.

This family owned traditional pub on East Street serves lovely homemade grub and offers a great value Sunday carvery for £7.50 and Friday is steak night when you get a free drink with your meal!

TEXAS HOLDEM @ THE CROWN

A new poker league starts at the newly relaunched Crown Inn on Lincoln Road on January 3 at 7.30pm.

If you fancy a game of poker but don’t want to lose any money then LivePubPokerLeague is the answer. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced you can join in this free and friendly evening and you could win some great prizes. Take a look at www.livepubpokerleague.com.

The Ploughman • Sky Sports • Camra Gold Award winning real ales available from £2 (5 hand pumps) • Happy hour Mon – Fri, 5 ‘til 7pm • Live entertainment – see ESP Gig Guide • Karaoke every Sunday with Mighty Mouth Trev • Award winning real ales available from £2 • Function room for hire at reasonable prices • Join our Facebook group The Ploughman

Staniland Way, Werrington Tel: 01733 327696

Bluebell (DOGSTHORPE)

The Boys Head

• Live music every weekend (check ESP Gig Guide) • Food served Monday-Sunday • Sky + Espn • Real Ales • Quiz Night Sunday • Large family beer garden • FREE pool on Mondays • Cambridge £2.55 during Premiership Football • Carling £2.80

• • • • • • •

St Pauls Road, Dogsthorpe Tel: 01733 554890 www. Bluebellpub.co.uk

Real Ales Under new management Fri, Sat, Sun in-house music New food and old music New restaurant now open Major refurbishment in New Year Food served daily

140 Oundle Road, Peterborough Tel: 07749 360238

The Dragon

Lime Tree

• Live entertainment see gig guide • Live sports including Saturdays 3pm, 5 screens (not sky) • Real ales • Mon Darts, Tues League Poker, Wed, League Poker and Crib • Thur League Poker and Pool • Fri & Sat Entertainment • See us on face book – The Dragon Pub

• Live entertainment - SEE ESP GUIDE • Live Sky sports • Real Ales • Beer gardens front and rear • Two pool tables • Quiz every Sunday night • Function room for hire

Hodgson Avenue, Werrington Tel: 01733 578088 peterboroughdragon@hotmail.co.uk

Paston Lane, Walton Tel: 01733 708320

Geneva Bar

The Crown Inn

• Mon – Sat, 10 til 4pm, Fosters & Carling, £2 per pint. John Smiths, £1.60 per pint • Thursdays – RnB, Soul, Hip-Hop & Reggae • Friday & Saturday – Join DJ Andy – Disco and Karaoke, 8pm – 2.30am • Sunday – Megamix 8.30pm – 1.30am • Late night opening Thursday, Friday, Saturday & Sunday until 2.30am

• Open every day from 11am • Real ale • Sunday lunch – 3 courses £9.90 adults, £7.50 senior citizens / children • Function room available • FREE POOL every Thurs, 6pm onwards • Karaoke/Disco Fri & Sat 749 Lincoln Road, Peterborough Tel: 07516 395905

2 Geneva Street, Peterborough Tel: 01733 340099

LIVE MUSIC

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

As Christmas and the New Year celebrations approach, it’s a strange time for local live music. Some take a well deserved break – and why shouldn’t they? Everybody, whatever they do, should be able to take a couple of days off to spend with their loved ones, while others make a few extra quid for their services – and why not? You can’t expect others to work anti social hours for next to nothing when we’re all enjoying ourselves. And let’s face it – without live music the alternative is… disco!

So as the season of goodwill arrives, let’s say a big Thank You to all the very talented musicians in the Peterborough area, for entertaining us so well with great music throughout the year. And for staying behind long after we’ve all gone home, dismantling the gear and humping it back to the van in the cold nights that we’ve been experiencing. I would’ve stayed behind to help them, but my Horlicks would go cold.

I wonder how many will be playing Rock Guitar Hero over the holiday?

We at ESP wish all of them, and their long suffering families, a very Merry Christmas and a rocking New Year!

In the last few months I’ve been to some enjoyable pub gigs. Hooker, Mighty Quinn and Storm impressed. And my gig of the year was at the Brewery Tap where Retrolux, Citizen Smith and the One Eyed Cats all played in aid of the local Unicef appeal for the victims of the Haiti earthquake.

If you haven’t caught those this year, look out for them in 2011. Now check out the ESP Gig Guide and catch some live tunes from some of our great local bands!

ERASURE SEE THE WOOD FOR THE TREES Talking of local talent, Andy Bell is back with Vince Clarke as Erasure have announced the Total Pop! tour, a series of dates for summer 2011.

After more than four years away from recording and live performance, they’re back doing both. They play their hits on stage as part of Forestry Commission Live Music, where acts perform in spectacular woodland locations across the country.

The Total Pop! tour will coincide with the release of Erasure's brand new album, planned for release in summer 2011.

Commenting on the tour, Peterborough’s Andy Bell said – "This is a wonderful opportunity to perform for the fans in such a unique backdrop, and it feels like just the right way to jump back in to Erasure after a four year break. We're excited to be playing in the woods and really hope it doesn't rain."

There are just seven gigs scheduled, and if you fancy witnessing these unique shows in very unusual settings then log onto www.forestry.gov.uk/music.

Amazingly Erasure were formed 25 years ago, and the awardwinning duo of Vince and Andy unleashed on the nation a succession of both influential and chart-topping pop anthems, such as , Sometimes, Victim Of Love, Blue Savannah and Star and the classic – A Little Respect. They’ve just re-released a brand new version of that for charity.

www.esp m ag .co.u k ( Ja nuar y )

CITY SINGERS HAVE THE X-MAS FACTOR When I was with Lite FM, before it changed name, we had two years of our Xmas Factor competition. It was based around the X Factor theme, giving local singers the chance to prove their ability. One of the winner’s prizes was to perform live at the city centre lights switch on in Cathedral Square. A daunting task, in front of a crowd of thousands, but one that stood them in good stead because the first year was won by a young male singer – Craig Saggers, who we felt showed quality in our competition. Craig, of course, this year excelled on ITV’s X Factor as the main voice of the duo Diva Fever, before being eliminated in the televised voting.

The second winner on our local Xmas Factor was a young lady named Amy Woods, who we also felt displayed huge potential.

That was four years ago, and now at the age of 19, Amy is celebrating as she’s secured a record contract with Peterborough based AMS Records. This follows a year of success performing live around the UK, where she’s done in excess of 100 tour dates, some to large audiences.

Amy is already well on the way to finishing her first album, and her debut single Twenty Five Eight has just been released and selling well. She’ll be doing more Peterborough dates next year with one already booked at Ebeneezers in Peterborough on Friday January 14 (£5 on the door) so look out for the name.

The single is available for download on iTunes, Amazon, Napster etc. or it can be bought as a signed hard copy through the website www.amywoods.co.uk I wish both Amy and Craig continued success with their promising careers in 2011.

LIVE AND LOUD ON NEW YEAR’S EVE Not decided what to do on New Year’s Eve? Try these for great live tunes…

One of ESP’s favourite bands, rockabilly heroes The Houndogs play at the Castle Sports Complex in Spalding.

Tickets are £27.50 including a hot buffet. Call 01775 762178.

Charters boat on Town Bridge is always a live music hot spot and they’ll be partying into the New Year with Children Of The Revolution. Tickets are just a fiver! Call 01733 315700.

Pogues tribute, The Dead Rabbits should definitely have you up on your feet at Mama Liz’s Voodoo Lounge in Stamford – especially after a free glass of Mama’s Moonshine on arrival!

Call 01780 765888.

Live Music January Fri 7th Sat 8th Fri 14th Sat 15th Fri 21st Sat 22nd Fri 28th Sat 29th

Kat Moore & Ian Graham Slide to Open Swinging the Led Glass Heart Daffy & the Alien Les Woods Band East Coast Frankly My Dear

Follow us on Facebook - The Ostrich Peterborough

• Food served daily from 12 - 3pm - Bar snacks and main meals now available see our new Menu • Selection of real ales • Food served from 12-3pm • Beer garden • Texas Hold ‘em Poker every Tuesday 7.30pm

• Family owned traditional pub serving homemade food in a friendly atmosphere.

• Food served 12pm to 9pm Monday to Saturday • Sunday Carvery served 12pm to 5pm – £7.50 per person – choice of 3 meats and a large selection of vegetables. Booking is highly recommended • Steak Night every Friday from 5pm – get a free drink with any steak or mixed grill • Free wireless internet • Four cask marque accredited real ales including two regularly changing guest ales • Tea and coffee served all day

early bird menu served from 12pm ‘til 7pm Monday to thursday during January and february – main meals from £3.50.

The Ostrich Inn 17 North St, Peterborough 01733 746370

East St, Stamford PE9 1QD Telephone: 01780 755494

REAL ALES, CASk MARQUE APPROVED, CAMRA GOLD AWARD

Happy New Year to all our customers New for 2011 Friday night is Steak Night!

• 2 x 8oz rump steaks with all the trimmings for only £12 Also Mon - Fri evenings 6-8pm • 2 x main meals for £10 from the specials board Plus full menu available

• Food served daily, Mon – Sat 12pm-2pm and 6pm-9pm.

Sun 12 – 5.30pm • Quiz night every Wednesday, 9pm start. Hosted by Ann. • Sunday evening easy listening, new acoustic sessions 8-10pm • Function room available for private parties

9 Oundle Road, Fletton, Peterborough 01733 703495 www.cherrytree-inn.co.uk

GIGS gigs @espmag.co.uk

THE WHISKY JAX

GRUMPY OLD MEN

KAT MOORE + IAN GRAHAM

The Cellar Bar Thorpe Road

The Old Coach House Market Deeping

The Ostrich North Street

The Fayre Spot Bretton

MATTHEW ZILCH AND THE MEIZTERS

The Bluebell Inn Dogsthorpe

SUN DEC 26

The Pear Tree Stamford

TUNNEL

CUTTIN' LOOSE

WED DEC 22 HAYLESTONE The Solstice Northminster

THU DEC 23 JAMES EDMONDS SOLO The Cellar Bar Thorpe Road

KAT MOORE + IAN GRAHAM The Ostrich North Street

MATTHEW ZILCH + THE HARRINGTON BLUES The Toreador Stamford

THE JAZZ PIGEONS The Rose Burghley Road

FRI DEC 24 CHILDREN OF THE REVOLUTION The Old Coach House Market Deeping

DR. A'S RHYTHM & GROOVES The Rose Inn Frognall

ELECTRIC WARRIORS The Ploughman Werrington

The Indian Queen Boston

ISIAH The Cellar Bar Thorpe Road

LATE SHOW RAGESTAR + TORI LAMOUR

SAT JAN 8

SLIDE TO OPEN

ELECTRIC WARRIORS

CIRCA 73

The Bell

The Bluebell Inn

The Fayre Spot Bretton

TREVOR BUDGIE Deeping St James Dogsthorpe THE DEAD WALTON EXPIRE + RABBITS The Bell SKINNY LISTER

HOOKER

Deeping St James Mama Liz's Voodoo Lounge Stamford MON DEC 27

Mama Liz's Voodoo Lounge Stamford

CIRCLE

THE GUARDS

MONKEY BOY

The Office Oundle Road

O'Neills Broadway

The Cock Inn Werrington

THE NUGGETS

THE HOUNDOGS

The Ploughman Werrington

The Castle Sports Complex Spalding

THU DEC 30

THE MIGHTY QUINN

MURRAY HOCKERIDGE + REX + LLOYD The Cellar Bar Thorpe Road

OPEN MIC NIGHT The Cherry Tree Oundle Road

FRI DEC 31

O'Neills Broadway

The Fletton Club Fletton

SAT JAN 1 CUTTIN' LOOSE The Bluebell Inn Dogsthorpe

ABBATASTIC THU JAN 6 + 80S EXPERIENCE PETE + JOSH + OUTA-STOCK ACOUSTIC DUO + MORE The Cellar Bar

LEE MAJOR

The Ostrich North Street

SAT JAN 29

OUTA-STOCK The Falcon Hotel Whittlesey

MOONLIGHT SHADOWS

CENTRE EXCUSE + SINGLE LAUNCH + SUPPORT

PENNYLESS + REX GATES

The Ploughman Werrington

The Ruddy Duck Peakirk

THE CASTROS + THE MARQUIS

TWENTY 4

FRANKLY MY DEAR

PORKY PIG

TATTOOED SEX GODS

The Peacock London Road

The Ostrich North Street

Mama Liz's Voodoo Lounge Stamford

THE INFLUENCE GLASS HEART

The Bluebell Inn Dogsthorpe

TUE JAN 18 OPEN MIC NIGHT The Boat Inn Whittlesey

WED JAN 19 HEATHER PEACE

The Golden Fleece Stamford

The Old Coach House Market Deeping

THE KARSIES

SPARE PARTS

The Cherry Tree Oundle Road

The Cherry Tree Oundle Road

SUN JAN 23 PENNYLESS Mama Liz's Voodoo Lounge Stamford

THU JAN 27 OPEN MIC NIGHT

Mama Liz's Voodoo Lounge Stamford

The Cherry Tree Oundle Road

MON JAN 31 TRACY MELINDA

The Ostrich North Street

The Ostrich North Street

PHIL HARE

The Cherry Tree Oundle Road

SUN JAN 9

FILTHY LUCRE + IGNITION The Cellar Bar Thorpe Road

The Office Oundle Road

HOOKER The Cross Keys Oundle Road

JAMES EDMONDS

CUTTIN' LOOSE

The Ploughman Werrington

DAFFY AND THE ALIEN

SLIDE TO OPEN

SAT JAN 15

THE RETURNS

FRI JAN 21

The Cherry Tree Oundle Road

CONTRAST

The Ostrich North Street

The Cock Inn Werrington

PP DOG

FRI JAN 7

SWINGING THE LED

THE GUARDS

Mama Liz's Voodoo Lounge Stamford

CHILDREN OF THE REVOLUTION

GRUMPY OLD MEN

The Bluebell Inn Dogsthorpe

THE GUARDS

FRI JAN 28

The Ploughman Werrington

DAFFY AND THE ALIEN

SUN JAN 16

Lord Westwood Westwood

Burghley Road

Mama Liz's Voodoo Lounge Stamford

The Swiss Cottage Woodston

LEE MAJOR

THE FLEETING MINDS

The Fayre Spot Bretton

The Rose Burghley Road

Thorpe Road

The Cellar Bar Thorpe Road

STONE PONY

MIDWEZT

Straw Bear Whittlesey

Cathedral Square Peterborough

Charters Town Bridge

The Dunn Cow Spalding

MONKEY BOY

Don’t miss the first New Year's Eve celebration on Cathedral Square since the millennium this December 31.

Hosted by local radio station Connect FM, it’ll be a big evening of family entertainment, including Abbatastic – a great tribute to Abba, and the 80s Experience band. It’ll all kick off around 8pm culminating in a fireworks display to mark the new year, weather permitting. There’ll also be a disco, for those of you who love a boogie, and a chance to win a fancy dress competition. Could you be the best dressed family? There’ll be stalls, live music and what’s more, it’s free entry!

THE NUGGETS

Stamford

RETROLUX

Mama Liz's Voodoo Lounge Stamford

NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY ON THE SQUARE!

The Swiss Cottage Woodston

KOMATYSED + HOOKER VENDETTA + Ebeneezers SMOKESCREEN Grove Street Mama Liz's LES WOODS Voodoo Lounge BAND

The Cherry Tree Oundle Road

December 31

The Cellar Bar Thorpe Road

The Red Lion Eye

ATOM OF THE BRIDE + SUPPORT

The Cherry Tree Oundle Road

RETROLUX

The Red Lion Eye

STORM

Ebeneezers Grove Street

Ebeneezers Grove Street

MICK DAVIDSON CLUTCHING + FRIENDS AT STRAWS The Rose

The Red Lion West Deeping

AMY WOODS + SUPPORT

Mama Liz's Voodoo Lounge Stamford

GLASS HEART

STEVE JOHNS

FRI JAN 14

The Fayre Spot Bretton

THE GUARDS O'Neills Broadway

ALADDINSANE BURN CITY BURN + THUNDERHORSE

The Axe & Cleaver TWENTY 4 Boston The Cross Keys ELECTRIC Oundle Road

Mama Liz's Voodoo Lounge Stamford

WARRIORS

EAST COAST

SAT JAN 22

The Cherry Tree Oundle Road

The Bluebell Inn Dogsthorpe

PENNYLESS

GLASS HEART

CRAYFISH ROCKETS

Mama Liz's Voodoo Lounge Stamford

The Ostrich North Street

The Bluebell Inn Dogsthorpe

SUN JAN 30 AINT MISBEHAVIN

The Red Lion West Deeping

FRI FEB 4 LOOSE ROCKET The Axe & Cleaver Boston

The Ostrich North Street

LEE MAJOR O'Neills Broadway

If you wanna get your gigs in ESP for free e-mail gigs@espmag.co.uk or fax on 01733 579708 or post to: ESP Magazine, PO Box 431, Peterborough, PE6 7FG. *ESP can not be held responsible for errors in this listing, be sure to check with the venue for confirmation.