Issue 784

The South West’s Best Student Publication 2025

THE UNIVERSITY OF EXETER’S INDEPENDENT STUDENT NEWSPAPER SINCE 1987

Exeter student runs as candidate in Local Council Election

Charlotte Isbell Editor-in-Chief

ON a rainy afternoon in May, I sat down with first-year Politics and International Relations student Sebastian StanwellWise to talk about all things local council elections. But this political conversation was not centred on his degree. Stanwell-Wise had recently completed his campaign to be the Councillor for Duryard & St James. When I first heard that a first-year had run in the local elections, I was surprised. How could a student possibly be qualified? Not only are they significantly younger than most other candidates—suggesting a lack of experience—but they usually are not local to the area. Stanwell-Wise explained that it was this latter factor that caused him the most adverse reactions. He explained that where he faced no pushback on his age, but “the main issue was, I am a student, I’m not a local.” The Exeter Observer argued that

the approval of new student accommodation—including the Longbrook site from the end of last year - has deepened the student-local divide.

The

But Stanwell-Wise saw being a student as an advantage: “The benefit of [not being a local] is that I have an outside perspective.” This allowed him to understand and communicate the issues faced by students—notably security and safety—that affect everyone living in Duryard & St James, but that are perhaps felt more acutely by students. It was the opportunity to speak to constituents through canvassing that Stanwell-Wise enjoyed the most. He said, “I love talking to people – it’s such a buzz. Listening to people with real issues and being that force for change.”

The Duryard & St James Ward covers a large student area. He explained that “the catchment goes up to Old Tiverton Road, hallway up there. And then halfway up Vic Street to Pennsylvania.”

Through this experience he was able to speak to lots of students. I was immediately curious at the response he got.

As a Conservative Party candidate, he is in the political minority for a typical student age group. As the last General Election revealed, age is increasingly the biggest voting factor: according to data collection platform Statista, as of May 2026 46 percent of 18–24-yearolds would vote for the Green Party, with only six percent likely to vote for Conservatives. Stanwell-Wise nodded familiarly as I explained this typical leaning and explained that one of the first houses he knocked on immediately told him that they were left and so “You don’t want to talk to me.” But much to their surprise, they ended up speaking for half an hour. Stanwell-Wise explained that one they had got past their obvious political differences, they realised that “we related much more on matters than they once thought.”

Those conversations are StanwellWise’s favourite bit, as “there’s satisfaction from walking away and making that connection.” What was becoming clear was that political polarisation is

increasingly present amongst students. But when the initial hostilities to opposing partisan opinions are overcome, there is often ample common ground to have productive conversations over.

We related much more on matters than they once thought

Stanwell-Wise understands that “students tend to be quite left.” But what “[he] was surprised about [was] how open they were.” At a local level, bypassing this polarisation is particularly important: “I think with local elections, it’s really important to [meet that common ground]. Because I think people have been disenfranchised with politics.” And he also found that students don’t feel that local councils serve them.

He also found that students don’t feel that local councils serve them.

Images (top to bottom): Wikimedia commons, Brush with Bamboo, Susie Hughes

Image: Sebastian Stanwell-Wise, taken by Cameron Alpine independently of the Conservative Party.

Cap graphic: rawprizel

Editors

Print: Beth Casey and Charlotte Isbell

Online: Orlando McKillop and Ria Brown-Aryee

Print Deputies: Poppy Fellows

Online Deputies: Isabella Brooks editors@exepose.com

News Editors

Print: Poppy Fellows Online: news@exepose.com

Features Editors Print: Janani Kandaramage Online: features@exepose.com

Climate Editors

Print: Freddy Purcell

Online: Ella Clark climate@exepose.com

Comment Editors

Print: Izzy Pearce Online: comment@exepose.com

Satire Editors

Print: Seb Broom Online: satire@exepose.com

Lifestyle Editors

Print: Rosa Terry and Sofia Tapia

Online: Phoebe Andrews and Lucy Felton lifestyle@exepose.com

Arts & Lit Editors

Print: Erin Rose Morris and Lucy Cornwell

Online: Amber Gordon artsandlit@exepose.com

Music Editors

Print: Cristina Ferrin

Online: Amelie Marah and Eve Buckley music@exepose.com

Screen Editors

Print: Beth Casey and Charlotte Isbell

Online: Annabelle Atkins and Beth Donovan screen@exepose.com

International Editors

Print: Audrey Yuen and Suhaib Shaukat

Online: Anna Tolkacheva and Lola Milroy-Tompkins international@exepose.com

Sci-Tech Editors

Print: Beth Casey and Charlotte Isbell

Online: Julia Szewczyk and Sarah Hope sci-tech@exepose.com

Sport Editors

Print: Beth Casey and Charlotte Isbell Online: Lottie Townsend sport@exepose.com

Social Media Executive: Sam Jordan

Chief Photographer: Ethan Ford

Podcast Producers: Melissa Swift and Sebastian Stanwell-Wise

@exepose

@exepose

facebook.com/exepose

issuu.com/exeposeexeter

Devonshire House, Exeter, Devon, EX4 4PZ Advertising editors@exepose.com

AFTER a hectic first press week, we have somehow arrived out our first editorial. First of all, it feels important to say a huge thank you to the outgoing senior team for all their support - because it's safe to say we needed it! They have done a genuinely inspiring job with the paper this year and we wish them so much luck in their future endeavours. We cannot wait get started in September and take the paper in our own direction!

In the future, if there's an important issue at the university or in Exeter that we've missed, please email us at editors@exepose.com.

In this issue, News speaks to a university student who ran for local councillor, and covers what went on at Exeter pride. Features reflects on the criticism the Met Gala faced this year, while Comment discusses the influence social media has had over politics. In Exhibit, Lifestyle reviews a podcast created by two Exeter postgrads, Screen reviews some of the most recent shows and Excetera Excetera shares tips on how to make the most of summer. In SciTech we discuss the recent protein craze and Sport reports on the UOE women's football varsity and how you can get involved in sport in the summer term. If you can't get enough of Exeposé, you can check out our podcast and website which is updated on a weekly basis!

Thank you to all our new editors, writers and general helpers who have

worked hard to make this edition so smooth! We are excited to get to know you more throughout the year - we can tell it's going to be a good one.

We hope you all enjoy our first issue and are enjoying the sunshine! Have a great summer and we'll see you in September.

Beth and Charlotte

University News: Home and Abroad

Surrey Poetry Festival

AFEW weeks ago, the University of Surrey hosted the Surrey poetry festival. The festival took place on the second of May and hosted a range of UK-based poets. Including: Remi Graves, Br iony Hughes, Mira Mattar, Jo Lindsay Walton and so many more. The festival included poetry readings and per formances aimed to get people interested and reading contemporary poetry. Likewise, for the writers attending, there were workshops to get feedback on creative works. The day also included the launch of a zine made by the students at the UOS. Similar poetry festivals and events can be found through the South Bank centre’s national poetry library.

£190 Million Donation to the University of Cambridge

SUBVERTING the Times Higher Education's evaluation of declining British philanthropy, with donations to Russell Group institutions last year decreasing. A new record was set by billionaire hedge fund owner Chris Rokos' £190 million donation to Cambridge University. Initial funding will contribute £130m to the university, with the remaining £60m going toward the new Rokos School of Government. A man estimated to be worth £2.6bn, and who has financially supported many Eton Scholarships, Rokos has gone on record saying, "I was fortunate to be given the opportunity of an education which transformed my life, and I would like to give something back to Britain”. In reference to his scholarship to Eton College, Rokos wants to prepare future leaders for the challenges of domestic and international politics in an ever-changing world. Inspired by his past opportunities, Rokos has donated generously to provide the best academic environment for business and government students.

Women Make Up Fifty Percent of Graduates in India

THE National Statistics Office have recently released a report on men and women in India stating that as of 2025, women make up half of the higher education graduates in the country. Female enrolment has also steadily increased, jumping from 15.4 million in 2014, to 21.7 million in 2022-2023.

While there is still a significant gap in women taking traditionally male dominated courses such as engineering and IT, women are frequently found in doctorate and PhD studies. Dr Pankaj Mittal, secretary-general of the Association of Indian Universities, told University World News, “India has witnessed a significant rise in female participation in higher education over the past decade, reflecting important social and policy-driven changes.”

China Tops Asian University Rankings

TThis has primarily been possible through improved infrastructure and accessibility of hostels, growing social awareness and schemes such as the Pragati Scholarship for technical education t hat help dissolve financial barriers previously preventing female enrolment.

SINGHUA University ranks number one on The Times Higher Education rankings, with China as a nation dominating the list. Five of the top ten rankings, and 20 of the top 50, China’s unwavering position reiterates the strength of the education system, whilst other Asian countries continue to improve. Whilst Hong Kong slips down the ranking, Singapore and Japan moving up ever so slightly, and there seems to be little change within the rankings as a whole for 2026. So, what does China’s continued growth in global rankings mean for other institutions worldwide? Reflecting sustained government investment, says Professor Simon Marginson, as other scholars have observed improving the education system is part of a wider ‘Opening and Reform’ program that began in China over thirty years ago. This shows immense change in the education institutions in China, as in the 1980s, fewer than five percent of children had any higher education.

Proofers: Beth Casey, Emily S Rizzo, Lauren Walsh, Poppy Fellows, Lucy Cornwell, Sebastian Broom, Rosa Terry, Ria BrownAryee, Zandie Howells, Freddie Purcell

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By Kayleigh Swart, Daniel Pratt. Beth Casey, Poppy Fellows

‘Widening student parcipitation in local politics is essential’

Continued from front page

“Even the third years, they were leaving, and they’re like, I have no problems here.” Stanwell-Wise believed that there were lots of problems—from security to waste disposal—that students frequently struggle with, but don’t feel can be helped.

This proves a larger problem of disconnect with local bodies. Stanwell-Wise told me about a student he knows who “said he’s not going to vote” because “it’s not important. It’s local elections.” And he believes “that mentality is why people don’t vote because they don’t think it affects them.”

People don’t vote because they don’t think it affects them.

So how do we change this perception? Stanwell-Wise supports greater education of local election process from universities and governments. If students can register to vote early on in their university careers and know what issues local councils help them with, then they have the tools to make an educated vote.

Widening student participation in local politics is also essential. StanwellWise was keen to stress that running for local council was not as scary or hard as it may seem. “I think for anyone wanting to get involved in politics, or even study in politics, I think you have to take the leap to understand what it is”, he said. “But until you’re actually in, and you understand what’s going on, you’ve got no idea.” Stanwell-Wise cited the importance of his previous work experience shadowing an MP as this gave him credible experience. “I think if anyone’s going to run as students, you need to get some credibility behind you”, he explained. And to get this experience, he stresses that “all it takes is an email.” Proactivity is paramount.

Kira, our Student Living Officer said “It’s fantastic to see our students not just casting their vote but putting their name on a ballot. Local politics isn’t abstract – it’s your daily life. Whether it’s your bins being collected or parking outside your house, having students involved in local issues really matters. Having students in those conversations really matters.

Democracy doesn’t have to mean running for office. Whether it’s volun-

teering on a campaign, attending a husting or just making sure you’re registered to vote – it all counts. As your Guild, we’re here to help you get involved, and there are more ways to do so than you might think. Visit our Take Action webpage and see what’s possible.”

We also spoke to the current Liberal Democrat Councillors for Duryard & St James about getting students more involved in local politics. Kevin Mitchell, Mike Mitchell and Tammy Palmer shared that “It is always positive to see young people engaging in politics across the political spectrum and this election certainly provided that opportunity! It’s great to see students being given the opportunity to gain experience by standing as candidates or being involved behind the scenes and getting to see firsthand how a local election campaign works!” They said that students who got involved in the local election said “that they had a chance to talk to people from different parts of the city and find our more about local issues, learn more about how a political campaign works and what’s involved, utilise their existing skills and interests and learn new skills, meet new people and the most exciting bit is getting to go

to the count – whether you win or lose it’s a really fantastic experience They are keen to “keep encouraging students to play an active role in Duryard and St James and really welcome anyone interested to get in touch with us.”

Although Stanwell-Wise fell short of the votes needed for election, there is clearly something to learn about the value of student involvement in local politics. Students bring an outside perspective to their university towns. They are also tapped into the lo-

Students bring an outside perspective to their university towns.

cal student community, able to draw on their networks to understand and share the problems constituents face day to day. What I learnt too during our conversation was that—as Stanwell-Wise puts — “a lot of the issues that divide Conservatives, Reform, Labour, Lib Dem, whatever—it’s all the same issues, but just perspective.”

If students can find common ground and get past the rampant po-

larisation in Britain, we can start to have truly productive conversations around local politics. So if you feel there as an issue to be fixed in Exeter and want to make a change, these local council elections prove that there is a space for you in politics.

Image: Geograph Britain and Ireland

These local elections prove that there is a space for you in politics.

Image: Cameron Alpine

Part-time MA Publishing students dissatisfied with course pause

Beth Casey Editor-in-Chief

STUDENTS from Exeter’s MA Publishing have recently come forward to express their dissatisfaction and concerns surrounding insufficient staffing and the pausing of the course in the 2026-27 academic year. According to the description on the University website, the one-year course offers practical training in editing software and journalistic practices allows students to “familiarise [themselves] with the processes of commissioning, production, marketing, and distribution.”

However, Chris Fletcher, a part time student who chose the option to take this course across two years, said that this short staffing significantly disrupted the support he received, as well as the modules the course promised. He emphasises the inconsistency with personal tutors: “I'm now on my third personal tutor.” For a workfocused master's programme having

pastoral support is often crucial to bridging the gap between academics and long-term goals. A University of Exeter spokesperson said: “Due to unexpected staff absence there was an unavoidable change to the academic team delivering the MA Publishing course this year. We have apologised to those affected, and extra support from academic tutors was available to them during this time."

The pause left a small number of part time students feeling as though they only receiving half the education they paid for. “The modules I signed up for in the first place now aren't running in the next academic year or are going to be vastly different to the initial description,” Fletcher tells Exeposé. An anonymous student stated that “those of us on the oneyear track were already feeling we deserved a fee reduction for the university's inability to effectively deliver the programme as promised.”

[We] were already feeling we deserved a fee reduction

The University spokesperson also states, “these staffing challenges mean there is a pause in new student recruitment to the MA Publishing course for the 26/27 academic year. Unfortunately, this means that some specialist publishing option modules will not be available next year for the small number of part-time students on this course who did not choose them this year. The MA Publishing has always had close ties to other HASS courses, and the students will be able to pick from a wide variety of other modules, including creative industries-facing options that are colisted as part of the MA Publishing programme.

“We are working to support these students as they make their academic choices for next year and tutors will be able to offer relevant practical training as part of their dissertation module, which offers the opportunity to

Emily S. Rizzo Editor-in-Chief

EARLIER this month, on May 9th, Exeter hosted its annual Pride event, which has been running for 18 years, and is the largest free Pride event in the South West. The day promised a series of different events, alongside the main march, which started at midday, and saw a longer route through the streets of Exeter than previous processions.

Various community groups and individuals waved their flags loud and proud, with a Stagecoach bus bringing up the rear. The streets were lined with people wrapped in flags, families with small children, and shop-owners watching from their windows. The atmosphere was nothing short of electric.

For the rest of the day, food trucks and shows took over Northernhay and Rougemont Gardens, including workshops and performances from choirs, charity groups, and drag queens. Particular fan favourites included the Dog Show, the Burlesque Performance in the Phoenix, and the official Big Gay Afterparty.

pursue either a research-based or practical publishing project.”

These staffing challenges mean there is a pause in new student recruitment

As evident, the university have been proactive in providing support to lessen the impact of these staffing issues. However Fletcher speaks

on how the new modules he will be taking may affect his schedule: “I work full-time outside of the programme and now having to mix modules from other programmes, these may not all run on the same day, as the publishing modules did.”

From both comments, it is clear the staffing issues have been disruptive to students and institution alike, however for an unavoidable issue, both have made the best of an unfortunate situation.

Exeter Pride 2026

Many introductory sessions to activities and skills aiming to broaden inclusive practices, such as pole dance tasters, introductions to deaf awareness and BSL, and even various self-confidence and self-love building workshops.

Accessibility and diversity were at the forefront of the day, and the range

of options catered to all audiences – family-friendly or otherwise.

Particular fan favourites included the Dog Show, the Burlesque, and the Big Gay Afterparty

The student turnout was immense, despite the ongoing deadline season, and many societies also spotlighted the event as something they would be taking part in. Rose, Communities and Equality Officer, said “Exeter Pride is such a joyful celebration of visibility, community and belonging, and it was wonderful to see our students coming together ahead of

the day to get involved and show their support for LGBTQ+ communities both on campus and beyond.

Events like our ‘Get Prepped for Pride’ breakfast create a really welcoming space for students to connect, build confidence and share in the excitement together before the celebrations begin.

We’re so proud to support opportunities like this, where students can be creative, feel supported and be part of something bigger. Moments like these make Exeter feel warm, inclusive and truly welcoming – a reminder that connection and community are at the heart of the university experience.”

Student turnout was immense despite the ongoing deadlines season

The University truly played its part as one of the Pride sponsors, and overall the day was a success—not only because of the rarity of it's sunny weather, but because of the overwhelming support and community engagement that the celebration shared across Exeter.

Image: Poppy Fellows

Image: Exeter Pride, Poppy Fellows

‘Ride On King Jesus’ — Motorcyclists meet at Exeter cathedral

Poppy Fellows Deputy Editor

BIKERS gathered at Exeter Cathedral for a ‘Blessing of the Bikers’ ceremony on the 10th of May. The event was organised by a biker and vicar, Father Matthew Cashmore, who wanted to expand the church community out towards dozens of bikers across the southwest.

Across the world, there are biker blessings that see cyclists and motorcyclists’ bikes blessed with holy water by priests before the summer, where the concentrations of cyclists and bikers increase due to

perfect weather for summer rides.

At the ceremony in Exeter—the first ever biker blessing that has taken place at the Exeter Cathedral—the Right Reverend, Dr Mike Harrison, used holy water from the Cathedral to bless the bikes, followed by a choral evensong which was streamed outside on a screen for the Cathedral Green to watch. For many bikers, the sense of community is similar to that of a church. They put a lot of faith in their ability to ride, and many Christian bikers will pray to God to keep them safe.

Furthermore, the community is welcoming to bikers, in the same way that the church is meant to extend their community out to anyone—within the motorcycling community anyone with two wheels is seen as part of the family, or ‘chapter’, as bikers call their community groups.

These blessings happen across the world, with worships framed around a narrative of bikers, such as an instance of a rendition of ‘Ride on King Jesus’. For many bikers, it is about connecting with their faith, and allowing God to care for them. For others, like the church, riding a motorcycle brings joy and hope into their lives, and is a positive output for them during hard times, especially as their chapters ride together and spend their time within a community with shared values and interests. The first instance of a bike being blessed happened

in the 1800s, with a bicycle of course, rather than a motorcycle, in Manhattan. It has been non-denominational, rather than just about spiritual connection, and many blessings have included memorials for bikers who have sadly lost their lives.

For many bikers, it is about connecting with their faith and allowing God to care for them.

This blessing ceremony for southwestern biking communities may become tradition in Exeter, attracting riders from Bath and even Gloucestershire as it has done this year.

Image: Melissa Swift

Image: Pexels

Poppy Fellows Deputy Editor

JOHN Williams works at the university, but he also has a solution for what to do with all our old newspapers—and a sustainable one at that! He owns ten acres of land on which he grows flowers for his small flower growing business. He started doing this a few years ago upon noticing a niche for people who wanted old fashioned flowers.

A solution with what to do with all our old newspapersand a sustainable one at that!

We are at Exeposé are thrilled to be part of this, as John’s innovation means he uses old newspapers that are no longer

Upcycling the Exeposé

in print to create planters for the flowers, rather than wasting plastic on pots. Instead, he wraps the roots in the pages of articles that our writers at the Exeposé curate.

John started using the old newspapers during the Covid-19 pandemic as there were many unread papers due to less people being on campus, and has been selling flowers to local greengrocers and the Bris-

tol Flower Market. Last year, he supplied the University of Exeter gardeners with flowers, which you can see across campus, such as outside the Northcott and Reed Hall (as pictured here). He emphasises that some are still flowering on campus, but as we continue into the summer term and hopefully begin to be spending more time around campus in the nature areas, you can really stop and smell the roses.

John has highlighted how important it is to reduce single use plastics to help the environment. These are crucial changes that can be made easily, and can help make Exeter more sustainable.

John highlighted how important it is to reduce single use plastics to help the environment

Francis, Education Officer, has said, “This initiative is a great example of what can be achieved through collaboration across our community. This has helped to create a positive and practical way to upcycle past newspapers, giving them a new purpose rather than letting them go to waste.

Working together with University Grounds and staff, this partnership not only supports our joint sustainability goals but also strengthens the relationship between the Guild, Exeposé and the wider University.”

We are very excited that the newspapers will have use beyond one week of press, and will continue to be part of the University of Exeter through the growth of flowers.

A great example of what can be achieved through collaboration across our community

Bill Douglas Cinema Museum celebrates centenary of Marilyn Monroe

Poppy Fellows Deputy Editor

EXETER’S own campus cinema and museum, the Bill Douglas Cinema Museum, is putting on a new exhibition commemorating the centenary of Marilyn Monroe’s birth!

The Bill Douglas Museum is the UK’s leading moving image museum, and is home to the “foremost collection” on cinema and moving image history, making it the perfect place to remember and display the life of a powerhouse and icon of cinema history.

‘100 Years of Marilyn’ will open on the 29th May, as it will be a hundred years since her birth on the first of June. The exhibition will run until November, and it is free and open to public and students for anyone who wishes to visit.

Housing a collection of over eight hundred items of what the museum call ‘Marilyn-alia’, The Bill Douglas Cinema Museum will exhibit posters from her iconic films, sheet music, press books, and photographs. Her notorious lead roles in Some Like It Hot and Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, amongst other films that grossed $200 million by the time she sadly lost her life in 1962.

Known to many as a symbol of the sexual revolution in the 1950s and

60s, Monroe was more than just her ‘blonde bombshell’ characters, which is what the exhibition wishes to convey

to its visitors. Her unwavering cultural significance is still prominent in contemporary society, and the museum

will emphasise her legacy and influence amongst both her contemporaries and actresses in the twenty-first century.

Dr Phil Wickham is the curator of the Bill Douglas Museum, and states that her “cultural importance has never diminished”, and throughout history her face has been recognisable as her sex symbol status, but more importantly as a survivor of abuse. It is undoubtable that her achievements as a comic actor are seriously overlooked by her beauty, and the exhibition wants to showcase her talent.

Her achievements as a comic actors are seriously overlooked by her beauty, and the exhibition wants to showcase her talent

Furthermore, the collection reflects the amount of material her face has been used on to capitalise and monopolise on her looks and status and popularity. The collection has been curated by two student volunteers at the museum who have combed through artefacts, selecting a hundred items for the display. The use of Monroe’s face to sell products shows another layer of exploitation felt by her in the film industry, and reiterates how she was often reduced to her body, her face, or her name rather than the achievements she made throughout her sadly short, but incredibly vibrant life. A museum exhibition like this asks why so many female super-talents were diminished to their romances, and their sordid relationships with men and the male gaze.

Images: John Williams

Image: PICRYL

Features

IFEATURES EDITORS: Janani Kandaramage

Charlotte Haswell discusses the emergence of the Greens and Reform amidst Labour’s decline

N the wake of the recent local elections, it has become clear that people across the country are increasingly fed up with both Labour and the Conservatives, which both lost numerous councillors, even in their ‘heartlands’. The question now is whether this change is here to stay or if it is just voters using the local elections to voice their concerns about the current leadership. In Exeter, the Greens celebrated a historic win as they took the city from Labour who held it for 14 years until now. The Greens gained 441 councillors and five councils, their greatest win so far. The Greens and their leader, Zach Polanski, have exploded this year, particularly with their campaign “make hope normal again”.

14 councils. They managed to make gains in both traditionally Labour and Conservative areas. Essex County Council, in particular, was a landmark win for them, taking the council from the Conservatives after 25 years. As an Essex local who was around for the

IN EXETER, THE GREENS CELEBRATED A HISTORIC WIN Image: World Economic Forum on Flickr

Their win in Gorton and Denton, followed by their increase in council seats across the country, suggests they are no longer the ‘wasted vote’ they had traditionally been viewed as. Reform, too, saw some significant wins, gaining 1,452 councillors and

ning to vote for the party in the next general election. The next general election is not due until 2029, so there is still time for Reform to drop in popularity, for the Greens or Labour to overtake them, or for the Reform Party to implode. After Reform’s suc-

elections, the shift towards Reform was not a surprise to me. Clacton, in south Essex, being Farage’s seat, suggested early on that communities in Essex are, in general, more supportive of Reform. Of the two parties, Reform appears to be making the most gains in leadership and in the polls, with many people plan-

cess in the local elections, they have already begun to struggle. Glenn Gibbins, for example, was suspended for his racist remarks about ‘melting down’ Nigerians to fill potholes. Stuart Prior, a recently elected councillor, has resigned after backlash for comments calling white people the ‘master race.’

with leisure Britain enters an age of multiparty politics

Nine Reform councillors have resigned or been suspended since the local elections on the 7th of May. If this continues, and Reform struggles to replace its candidates, it may struggle to stay afloat. Of course, the next general election is not for another three years, so it is unclear which way things will go for Reform. That said, they are not off to a great start.

The Greens, on the other hand, appear to be relatively stable; that said, two councilors have had to step down due to ineligibility to stand, as they are both teachers. James Tilden and Muhammad Abu Naser were successful in their local elections but could not take up their positions as councillors, which does suggest there are also some issues within the Green party vetting process as well. For both Reform and the Greens, it seems they are getting to grips with their sudden boom in popularity. Perhaps these are just teething issues as they take on greater responsibilities; only time will tell. If either or both of the parties excel in their positions on local and county councils, this may well bolster their popularity in the next general elections.

A survival guide through university

Lauren Walsh, Deputy Editor, reflects on the importance

UNIVERSITY can be some of the best years of your life, but one of the big challenges is maintaining a good work-life balance. Socialising with your friends is such a huge part of the university experience, but it’s important not to lose sight of the reason we’re here: the all-important degree.

ITS IMPORTANT NOT TO LOSE SIGHT OF THE REASON WE’RE HERE

This year was my final year at Exeter, and the academic workload definitely stepped up compared to previous years. In addition to this, I had to balance university work with my work for Exeposé! I found establishing a routine was really helpful for coping with this.

Having certain days set aside for module reading or article writing meant I knew I had time to get my work done, and it also stopped me from (mostly) pulling any all-nighters. I know it’s hard to do but start on your assignments as early as possible! Having a couple of weeks to plan and write my essays meant that something came up last minute for my committee role, I had time to fall back on to catch up on my essay work, without having to panic. Furthermore, planning ahead is a lifesaver: if I knew I had a deadline the same week I would have to spend a lot of time on committee work, I’d start the assignment earlier to avoid the work overlapping. All of this should hopefully add up to as little stress for you as humanly possible. While academic work and any society commitments or part time jobs are obviously important, it’s also important to set aside time for yourself. Maybe you want to go out with your friends, or maybe you prefer to stay in and spend some time on a hobby! Again, it may sound strange, but ‘timetabling’ for yourself can really help. For example, my flatmates and I started going to our local pub quiz every week. Some of my friends and I have also established another weekly tradition we call ‘girls night.’ This one doesn’t involve leaving the house, but every Wednesday evening we would do something together:

of balancing academics

whether it’s watching a silly rom-com, playing Just Dance, or trying out a craft (we’ve done vision board making, baking and decorating cupcakes, and sip and paint, to name just a few).

PLANNING AHEAD IS A LIFE -SAVER: IF I KNEW I HAD A DEADLINE I’D START THE ASSIGNMENT EARLIER TO AVOID THE WORK OVERLAPPING

Both these traditions are really fun, and only take a few hours out of your day, but it also means you have something to look forward to every week. Timing when you know you’re going to socialise, and taking a break from work, are important for your mental wellbeing.

However, this is what worked for me, and it won’t work for everyone. The best advice I can offer is knowing yourself and how you work, and planning around that. It’s hard to find balance between academic work, other commitments and a social life, but if you can--it will make your time at university easier and lots of fun.

Met Gala 2026: A Celebration or Commercialisation of “Fashion is Art”?

THE 2026 Met Gala was sponsored by billionaire Jeff Bezos for $10 million, yet a single red-carpet outfit can cost more than most people earn in a year. The announcement by US Vogue of Bezos’ sponsorship instigated a wave of social media backlash.

The Met Gala has always occupied a strange cultural space as part museum fundraiser, part celebrity parade, and part global marketing campaign. Established in 1948 by Eleanor Lambert as a modest fundraising dinner for the Costume Institute, the event originally cost just $50 per ticket. In 2026, seats reportedly cost around $100,000 each, with luxury brand designers and corporate sponsors dominating the guest list. What was once a charity event for New York high society has evolved into one of the most commercially powerful nights in the fashion industry. This year’s dress code, “Fashion Is Art,” asked celebrities to treat the human body as a canvas

WHAT WAS ONCE A CHARITY EVENT FOR NEW YORK HIGH SOCIETY HAS EVOLVED INTO ONE OF THE MOST COMMERCIALY POWERFUL NIGHTS

inspired by famous masterpieces and sculptures.

Whilst some celebrities encapsulated artworks, others wore outfits that were inspired by art. Heidi Klum transformed herself into a living marble statue, and Hunter Schafer referenced Gustav Klimt’s portrait of Mäda Primavesi in Prada. Emma Chamberlain arrived in a Mugler gown featuring a flowing watercolourinspired train, and Rihanna wore a sculptural Maison Margiela look inspired by medieval ar-

chitecture. Created by Andrew Bolton, the theme accompanied the Metropolitan Museum of Art Costume Institute exhibition “Costume Art,” pairing 200 garments with 200 traditional artworks in an attempt to elevate clothing to the same institutional level as fine art. In New York, guerrilla posters spread across subway stations, branding the event the “Amazon Prime Gala,” alongside the slogan: “Bezos MGala: Brought to you by the firm that powers ICE.”

The campaign quickly gained traction online, catalysing a social media campaign that targeted the extreme wealth of the top one per cent of earners in the US. As backlash intensified, many users compared the Gala to The Hunger Games , in which

MANY USERS COMPARED THE GALA TO THE HUNGER GAMES

the glamour and spectacle of the Capitol showcased concentrated excess wealth against a backdrop of mass poverty.

In a TikTok discourse, users accused Jeff Bezos of using the Gala to rehabilitate his public image. Longstanding public criti-

cism of the poor working conditions for Amazon drivers in the US fuelled the social media campaign that--billionaire sponsorship had transformed the Met Gala into a display of corporate influence disguised as culture.

Hours before the actual Met Gala, Amazon workers staged a protest in New York titled the “Ball Without Billionaires,” which critiqued the concentration of wealth symbolised by the Gala. Amazon workers, their unions and supporters modelled ethically sourced designs by immigrant designers, reframing labour as art to combat the overconsumption of high profile brands.

REFRAMING LABOUR AS ART TO COMBAT THE OVER-CONSUMPTION OF HIGH PROFILE BRANDS

Joanna Howard argues that the fashion industry has become a highly monetized corporate machine PROTESTS ADVOCATED FOR THE IDEA THAT INDIVIDUALS WHO TRULY SUSTAIN THE FASHION INDUSTRY ARE NOT ON THE RED

Another activist group, “Everyone Hates Elon”, escalated the protests further, placing nearly 300 miniature bottles of fake urine outside the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The demonstration referenced previous allegations by Amazon delivery drivers, who claimed they were denied proper bathroom breaks during shifts due to pressure to meet productivity targets.

Protests advocated for the idea that the individuals who truly sustain the fashion industry are not the figures on the red carpet, but the workers who design, sew, package, and deliver clothing.

Paloma Elsesser: Wikimediacommons

Bl: Wikimediacommons

Sombr: Wikimediacommons

Image: Flickr

Image: Wikimedia commons

CLIMATE

EDITOR:

Freddy Purcell

The legacy of Plant Vogtle

Ella Clark, Online Climate Editor, considers the

lessons learned from Georgia’s nuclear power station

WHEN considering the future of energy resources, there is a lot of debate over whether the benefits of nuclear energy outweigh the costs. Plant Vogtle is a key point in this concern, as although the project was finished in 2024, this was a result of serious delays, meaning it may be quite some time before the plant can perform to standard.

Nuclear energy generates around nine percent of the world’s electricity, with the industry constantly expanding as it is celebrated for its recyclability through commercial reprocessing and a lack of carbon emissions. However, the production of nuclear energy poses long-term environmental risks such as heatwave-induced water shortages, leading to questions over whether this resource is in fact considerably better for our climate. Further-

Mmore, nuclear is thought to be a more expensive way of producing electricity, with immense upfront costs and strict regulations that must take place.

When construction for Plant Vogtle began in 2009, it was estimated to finish in 2017, which would cost around $14 billion. However, construction was continuously delayed as a result of wiring problems, faulty components etc, and by the time the project was finished, the costs amounted to a total of $36.8 million. It became the most expensive power project in the US and is yet to return on these investments. The project began in order to tackle rising electricity demand, and also diversify Georgia’s energy supplies, in the age where fossil fuels are rapidly depleting. In spite of this, data since 2023 suggests the system is underperforming, which is particularly problematic for the

US’ rising electricity bills. In addition, “Georgia Power customers paid a monthly construction surcharge that added up to more than $1,000 all told for some households” quotes Inside Climate News. Furthermore, this led to a rise in disconnections with Georgia Power, which disproportionately affected Black households.

The problem with the use of the nuclear energy is that it creates a huge expense which could be used to develop other resources, such as wind, solar, or hydroelectric power, which are often cheaper, renewable, and produce less long-term environmental risk. More importantly, it would reduce costs on customers by helping make electricity prices more stable and affordable. Plant Vogtle therefore acts an expensive example of how the US should begin to change their energy industry.

Dogs working in conservation

Daniel Pratt discusses the vital work of canine companions for protecting the environment

AN’S best friends are qualified to work amazing jobs. These miracle workers with paws help sniff out illegal substances, search and rescue, herd livestock, provide therapeutic comfort to the anxious, and even assist individuals with disabilities through guiding or alerting.

But did you know they also protect our environments? Providing their expertise as protectors, dogs are outperforming machines in aid of environmental conservation initiatives worldwide. Leading the charge for these canine task forces is Working Dogs for Conservation (WD4C). A nonprofit organisation that trains rescue dogs to locate scents associated with conservation issues. Providing the aid of these trained dogs to help with numerous issues on a global scale. For example, numerous organisations, aided by WD4C, utilise a dog’s super smell for wildlife protection. In

the Philippines, project CURMA’s (Coastal Underwater Resource Management Actions) Paw Patrol initiative combines community awareness with a dog’s sharp instinct. To protect sea turtle eggs, which are nested beneath the coastline sands, dogs are paired with local volunteers to detect the scents of vulnerable nests and protect them from poachers and disturbances.

DOGS ARE OUTPERFORMING MACHINES IN AID OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION

Furthermore, these dogs are trained in prevention. The WD4C describes it as Biosecurity: the detection and prevention of the growth of invasive species. In the state of Montana, there

was the threat of an invasive plant called dyer’s woad. With their accelerated growth rate, these plants alter ecosystems to the detriment of others, yet with the help of WD4C in the early 2000s, numerous dog-handler teams were dispatched to locate and prevent these seeds from growing. By the 2020s, these prevention efforts were successful because of the aid and integration of trained conservation dogs.

With a sense of smell 100,000 times stronger than a human’s, this biological advantage has been effectively utilised, from wildlife criminal investigation to population monitoring through tracking excrement.

Dogs are a godsend for environmental conservation organisations. This is a brilliant initiative as it provides a highly efficient, ecofriendly and unintrusive way of monitoring ecosystems all through a dog’s natural senses. This is an amazing boom for wildlife con -

servationists everywhere as a way to combat challenges through an economic, environmentally friendly and time-efficient approach.

Is your hayfever worsening due to the climate crisis?

Molly Panagi-Williams, discusses the increasing relationships between pollen and the unstable future of climate change

SCIENTIFIC research has concluded that worse pollen allergies are being caused by climate change and the effects of fossil fuels. Warmer weather and carbon dioxide build up in the atmosphere are increasing pollen counts and their effects from the usual mild annoyance to what could be life threatening for some, especially those with preexisting respiratory issues in addition to pollen allergies. Reports from a recent thunderstorm in Australia had many people affected by severe pollen that had attached themselves to the storm and this led to the deaths of several people and the hospitalization of others. It was termed ‘thunderstorm asthma’. This is just one example of how extreme weather and higher pollen, both caused by climate change, have the potential to be incredibly damaging

for those with pollen allergies or hayfever.

THUNDERSTORM ASTHMA: POLLEN ATTACHED ITSELF TO A STORM, LEADING TO THE DEATHS OF SEVERAL PEOPLE AND THE HOSPITALISATION

The worsening of allergies due to climate change is affecting a very large portion of the population, nearly 20 percent, in places such as the UK and Europe. This is caused by a variety of reasons, not exclusive to freak weather events. With changes to seasons, the

trees and flowers are blooming earlier in the year, making the pollen season start sooner than it used to and prolonging symptoms of pollen allergies. In addition, the longer periods of dry weather means that pollen on flowers and in the air are not being washed away regularly and being allowed to build up. The build up means that pollen is affecting allergies more, and making symptoms worse due to the increased exposure and normal methods of treatment are falling short and the usual tablets and nasal sprays are not working the way they used to. Invasive plants such as ragweed are worsening this problem as their pollen output is high and they prove difficult to remove. There are fears this will worsen if greenhouse gases are not reduced, however there are suggestions of planting trees with lower pollen

counts in more populated areas and other measures to counter the pollen levels. This might only be a short term solution though, with freak weather patterns and wildfires caused by hot weather exacerbating the problems for allergy sufferers. The advice of meteorologists and allergy scientists is that air pollution and climate change must be addressed sooner rather than later to prevent the problem worsening.

Image: Wikimedia Commons

Image: Wikimedia Commons

Image: Bee Collecting Pollen, Pexels

Swipe, Like, Vote: How social media is powering British democracy

Jasmine Wilson explores the polarisation of British politics

THE rise of modern social media being used in politics isn’t totally surprising. However, the recent local council elections on the seventh of May 2026 in the UK saw new heights reached with online campaigning. In just over a week the elections generated almost 3.8 million posts and 5.5 million interactions. Driven more by emotion rather than statistics and facts, videos, tweets and soundbites framed a reactive, populist approach to political campaigning dominated by the Green Party and Reform UK. These parties gained mass followings and interactions on social media platforms, especially TikTok and X, with prominent hashtags such as #reformuk trending.

THE UK SAW NEW HEIGHTS REACHED WITH ONLINE CAMPAIGNING

In terms of the reshaping of British democracy, this shift towards digital politics had successfully engaged and mobilised the younger generation of voters as more extremist and polarising policies are being shown to their feeds. Farage and Polanski, the party leaders for Reform UK and the Green Party have used social media to cultivate images of themselves

as outsiders and more in tune with the public, especially Farage, who successfully mixed his extremism with videos of him acting as a normal working-class man, usually in pubs, to appear more likeable to the British public.

The success of these two parties created a shift from traditional British politics and the reluctance of Labour and the Conservatives to use social media to fight on headline values or making themselves more relatable also contributed to this. As a result, Reform UK outperformed all other political parties with the most social media interactions despite being one of the smaller and least formally organised parties. Since last year they were able to more than double their membership, driven by their platforms on apps such as TikTok and X. Farage used a sense of

outrage to mobilise, drawing on emotional headlines such as immigration. He created videos and catchy soundbites such as ‘stop the boats’ to engage more extremist views that have historically been marginalised.

REFORM UK OUTPERFORMED ALL OTHER POLITICAL PARTIES WITH THE MOST SOCIAL MEDIA INTERACTIONS

Zack Polanski, on the other hand, used similar extremist approaches but this catered to the left leaning political ideologies causing a fight between the two opposing views through viral social media interactions. As a result, the local elections in 2026 saw more Green Party councillors than ever, rising by 441 and Reform UK surpassing all other parties gaining over 1400 councillors.

LOCAL ELECTIONS IN 2026 SAW MORE GREEN PARTY COUNCILLORS THAN EVER

While the Green Party didn’t perform as well as predicted this shift away from votes for Labour and the Conservatives evidently suggests that there is clearly a breaking down of the traditional two-party system that has been dominating British democracy. There are those that believe this is a positive, giving more voter choice and therefore enhancing democracy. However, there is also the danger of these increasing extremist views becoming too prominent leading to an unbalanced democracy.

Image: rawpixel

Image: Wikimedia Commons

Image: Wikimedia Commons

Does the monarchy still matter in modern Britain?

IN light of recent controversies surrounding the Royal Family how does the king’s visit to America reinforce their importance?

The royal family’s role in modern British government is hotly debated, revealing cultural, political, and generational divides. While most support retaining the monarchy, recent surveys by NatCen show only 58 percent in favour, with 38 percent preferring an elected head of state. Furthermore,recent controversies — Prince Andrew’s ties to Jeffrey Epstein, Queen Camilla’s feud with the House of York, and ongoing disputes with Prince Harry — have further damaged their reputation. With frequent scandals overshadowing politics, many question whether the royals still matter.

Daniel Pratt discusses the evolving state of the British monarchy

However, recently, an event highlighted the monarchy as a major national asset. The 27th to the 30th of April

marked the official state visit from the Royal Family to the USA, a four-day trip that celebrated the close ties between the two nations and celebrated the 250th anniversary of American Independence.

Bsession of Congress, where he earned 12 standing ovations for his speech. This visit also had an economic impact, removing the US tariffs on Scottish whiskey, a victory for the UK industry, in honour of the King, whom Trump lauds as “The greatest King in my book”. In short, this event has strengthened the bond between Britain and the US,

IMPACTING AMERICA THROUGH HIS DECISION-MAKING

The actions of King Charles made this trip a success, highlighting the monarchy’s strength in what they can accomplish in contrast to the UK’s elected officials.

Specifically, two things. Firstly, as the head of state, King Charles exercised a power the Prime Minister couldn’t; as head of state, Charles

Samuel Hanlon talks about

RITAIN is experiencing a rise in the number of antisemitic incidents, with over ten having already taken place in 2026. These include arson attacks against the Hatzola ambulance charity, the firebombing of a synagogue in Finchley, and the stabbing of two Jewish men in Golders Green. As a result, the Joint Terrorism Analysis Centre raised its UK national threat level from substantial to severe on April 30th, while the Community Security Trust reported an estimated 3700 antisemitic incidents in 2025. This was an increase of four percent since 2024, and representative of a dangerous trend of growing threats to the Jewish community.

was entitled to a “state visit”, a formal visit to another country receiving the full pageantry of a US Congress visit. Starmer, on the other hand, not discounting his antagonistic relationship with Trump, is limited to “official” or “working” visits that are comparatively stripped down and focus on business rather than hospitality. Secondly, King Charles exercised a high level of soft power, impacting America through his decision-making and his charisma, being the first monarch in almost 20 years to make a state visit and the second ever in history to address a joint

showcasing the unique power of an apolitical head of state. Bypassing the political barricades surrounding an elected head of government and earning wins for Britain through rapport rather than business meetings. In hindsight, this visit may seem unimportant in the future, but I believe this demonstrates how the monarchy remains a powerful part of Britain’s global presence and therefore still matters in modern Britain today.

EARNING WINS FOR BRITAIN THROUGH RAPPORT RATHER THAN BUSINESS MEETINGS

Why is Britain seeing a sharp increase in antisemitism?

rising antisemitism and what Britain should do

Jews are targeted in an incoherent retaliation for Israeli attacks in which they play no role.

MANY QUESTION WHETHER THE ROYALS STILL MATTER THE MOST RECENT DRIVING BEHIND THIS CONFLICT HAS BEEN THE CURRENT CONFLICTS IN THE MIDDLE EAST THE ACTIONS OF KING CHARLES MADE THIS TRIP A SUCCESS

Research reported that 35 percent of British Jews rated their safety as being of 0-4 out of 10, whilst only 9 percent rated that low in 2023.

DANGEROUS TREND OF GROWING THREATS TO THE JEWISH COMMUNITY

The most recent driver behind this conflict has been the current conflicts in the Middle East and particularly Israeli actions. Backlash against Jewish groups in the UK is fuelled by heated political discourse and converging extremist ideologies, as British

Along with the conflict, antisemitism relies on a culture which facilitates and peddles abuse and intimidation. Popular culture and social media both serve as vehicles to spread conspiracy theories concerning Jewish people, leading to abuse and attacks on Jewish civilians. The presence of ‘ambient’ antisemitism – the normalisation of antisemitic slurs, tropes and stereotypes - means that a climate of fear has been created for the Jewish population.

CULTURE AND SOCIAL MEDIA BOTH SERVE AS VEHICLES

In 2025, the Institute for Jewish Policy

The British Government has already started a plan of action to fight against antisemitism, with the Home Secretary announcing a “significant increase in investment to protect our Jewish communities”, including a further investment of £25 million following the Golders Green attacks. Keir Starmer’s national summit on May fifth also announced that public and private sector leaders have been tasked with tackling antisemitism in workplaces.

Through a total funding of £58 million already in 2026, the British Government

pledges to increase police presence, patrols, and protection in Jewish communities, as well as fast tracking hate crime prosecutions and stepping up efforts to identify and disrupt antisemitic networks. While these are all welcome advancements, it’s clear that a deeper issue needs to be addressed: that of a deep-rooted antisemitic feeling in the general population. When Jewish voices are dismissed or Jewish identity is reduced to Israeli policy, Jewish people lose the ability to speak for themselves, on their own terms. Through renewed conversation and education, Britain needs to remedy threats to Jewish safety, making intercultural inclusion a priority.

Satire

Writing for Exepose is great!

ly, how to liberate my mind and express my true opinions. It is so very important to be free and send my creations out to the world!!!

IWOKE up this morning to sun shining through my window. Birds chirped. Cars honked. The slow thrum of the city awakening. And there I was, ready to write another article for Exeposé – how I love it!!!

N ow, I haven’t been doing this for long –only a year now! How time flies when you’re having fun… And yes, I am having fun; I only saw two friends this week, and didn’t speak to my family either, but that’s because I was so immersed in my articles!

E very time someone asks what my hobbies are, I go “Exeposé and Exeposé”, and chuckle in excess. My mirror asked me that question this morning.

E verything is fine in life. My pillow is cold on both sides, my bread perfectly toasted, and my tea at optimal temperature. I see no danger in my existence as I set tle down for another article.

D uring the course of my involve ment in the Exeposé writing team, I have learned plenty of useful skills, name

H owever much my fingers ache from typing away, however little sleep I get, no matter! I know that my article will make the print, that the editor will bounce with joy and applaud my work… and I will write again. I can’t help it.

E vening falls, and the sun goes down. I immediately log back onto Word, a fresh coffee at my side. This is my prime, when the foxes prowl and the hedgehogs roll. I love my work and wouldn’t think of doing anything else.

L etting go of my other deadlines has been the most liberating thing I have done since joining Exeposé. Who needs a degree when they get to write articles for the best student newspaper? I plan on spending next year in Exeter to continue producing content for Exeposé – I have had to mute calls from my family as they keep mentioning a graduation ceremony? No thank you! lease remember to read Exeposé – everyone on the team puts in so much effort, and love to see students reading our work. It means the world to us. You readers are our bread and butter!!!

Jim E. Brown sent to help deal with hantavirus threat

Christopher Lyndsay

Previous Satire Editor (Rest in Peace)

AS hantavirus fears continue to rise, the World Health Organization is putting their greatest minds to the test over resolving the potential catastrophe. One such mind is the renowned Jim E. Brown – the world’s most tormented 19-year-old obese alcoholic singer songwriter, who might just be the answer to hantavirus.

The WHO (not the band) have previ ously sent him to the Hondius Cruise, with Mr. Brown himself insisting on the visit due to his hatred of rats. With the rodents acting as carriers, hantavirus has only strengthened his dislike of them, having previously had bad experiences in such locations as Fog Lane Park. He insists how ever, that their influence on a cruise ship “Isn’t the same thing at all really.”

These initial efforts alas were futile, with Jim E. Brown’s crippling depression preventing him from conversing with the infected guests. Worse still, the cruise ship proved rife with his greatest vices: food and alcohol. Despite setbacks, the intervention wasn’t entirely fruitless, with the release of a new, groundbreaking track titled: “I’m Too Fat to Contract Hantavirus” expected to release soon.

I’M TOO FAT TO CONTRACT HANTAVIRUS

The title is not without merit; scientists have indeed confirmed that Jim E. Brown is immune to the virus. Health professionals speculate a variety of reasons for such a condition. Some suggest that disease is blocked from entry by thick layers of grease from his many fast-food feasts. Others have suggested that his dislike of rodents is so strong that it repels anything associated with them. A few have simply suggested that he is already too depressed to be ill. Unfortunately, current efforts to replicate his immunity have failed, even despite his willingness to sacrifice his life for the process. Yet scientists remain hopeful that with enough listens on Bandcamp, perhaps others may find the benefits of being an obese alcoholic 19-year-old.

Keir Starmer replaced by Magic 8 Ball

BREAKING news! In a stunning turn of events, former Prime Minister Keir Starmer has been replaced by the new Labour Party leader, Mr Magic 8 Ball. A controversial figure in politics, known for his abrupt answers and ambivalence towards decision-making, Ball has caused an upset against numerous candidates. Overtaking Mr Stick Of Butter, who politicians rightfully guessed melted under pressure, Miss Fifty Pence Coin, whose chance of com ing into office was always fifty-fifty and of course, the charismatic Mr Plank Of Wood, whose party conference speech was described as the “most passionate” out of all other candidates. Yet even more surprising is the great success Ball has brought to the party, with WeGov reporting a 88 percent approval rating and a positive response to Ball’s quick wit and keen decision making. At a recent party conference, Ball was hit with some very fast questions from The Financial Crimes about reversing the effects of Brexit. Ball responded, “Better not tell you now”. For the question of whether he will solve the NHS

funding issue, he gave a resounding, “It is decidedly so”, and most shockingly, when cornered on his stance of immigration, he declared, “You may rely on it”. Being one of the first UK politicians to occasionally answer questions directly, Ball has brought popularity and stability to the Labour Party. However, critics are uncertain as to whether he can maintain this popularity, as the challenges of being an inanimate object could be a potential obstacle. Yet these challenges were overcome by past leader Sir Broken Clock, whose decisions were at least right twice a day. Though his spot in office is considered by many as “very doubtful”, it is clear he has reinvigorated British politics. As for Exepose’s opinion, we only have one answer………..

SIR BROKEN CLOCK, WHOSE DECISIONS WERE AT LEAST RIGHT TWICE A DAY

Ask again later.

Exmouth to hold sunburn competition

Kayleigh Swart Editor-in-Chief

YOU’RE on holiday somewhere on mainland Europe. You’re sat at the pool and you take a look at the people around you. Then you see it, a group of people who are bright red – a shade normally only given to a crustation. You’ve spotted them, the Brits. No other country seems to rival our ability to burn our skin to the point that makes dermatologists wonder how we haven’t all dropped dead from melanoma. And finally, that talent is being appreciated in the UK’s first official sunburn competition.

That’s right folks, if you are a sunburn expert you can now show off your talents to the whole UK. Even more exciting, this competition is happening right on our doorstep on the beaches of Exmouth! Contestants will arrive at Exmouth in the morning and spend the rest of the day lying on the beach. After sunset each contest ant will be measured by how red they’ve turned; the closest to Pan tone 18-1664 (otherwise known as fiery red) will be declared the winner.

THE CLOSEST TO PANTONE 181664 (OTHERWISE KNOWN AS FIERY RED) WILL BE DECLARED THE WINNER

While this may just seem like a fun weekend activity, there are already rumours of some serious athletes coming to compete. So far, the competition is set to include: men who walk around shirtless in 15-degree weather; middle-aged holiday makers at an all-inclusive resort and a group of people with ginger hair.

SATIRE EDITOR:

Sebastien Broom

Daniel Pratt

Samuel Hanlon

Image: Pexels

Image: Flickr

'The Go Go Juice Podcast': post-grad podcast

Rosa Terry, Lifestyle Editor, shares how Day and Guilia turned their voice memos into a podcast

RAN by post grad students (and best friends) Day and Guilia, The Go Go Juice Podcast strikes a perfect balance between deep conversations that will make you feel heard, and the easy-going chats that we all long for after a day’s hard work. They say it themselves — ‘shall we have a gossip sesh?’

Quoted here from their very first episode entitled ‘Love is complicated and so are we’ (immediately loved this title), Day and Guilia truly do achieve this ‘gossip sesh’ vibe. Their style is chatty — the episodes don’t feel excessively polished, as we hear their laughter and natural conversation, and their personalities shine through. In this lies their ability to make their listeners feel like their friends. You are given a sneak peek into their ‘daily debrief’, offering a space to relate to the lives of two 20-something year old girls, in a very down-toearth way. And I for one love a world where we can turn the ‘pjs gossip with your bestie’ into a professional and accessible podcast — Guilia herself expressed how exciting it was to see it become ‘something that is now genuinely reaching other people.’ ‘We’ve started receiving some really lovely messages from listeners

Esaying that we kept them company,’ she says. Uni can feel lonely for anyone. Amidst the storm of academic stress and social pressure, sometimes all we need is a

WE CAN TURN THE 'PJS GOSSIP WITH YOUR BESTIE' INTO A PROFESSIONAL AND ACCESSIBLE PODCAST

voice saying, ‘I feel you, and you aren’t alone in this’.

The girls began their podcast journey over a winter break spent apart, sending long voice notes to update one another on their lives — what they eventually called their ‘mini podcast of the day’. They connected over both being international post-grad students, studying MA Publishing and simply living life as women in their early 20s — and these things come together to create a versatile podcast, in which there will be something for everyone. They range from discussing art and culture, in album reviews and reflecting on The London Book Fair, to real world conversations about navigating life

in your twenties. We see so many aspects of their lives inform their chats. And this, says Day, comes from a ‘genuine desire to connect over the ideas and topics we find most interesting, such as literature and self-love'.

One of their deeper chats, which I felt their target audience would particularly resonate with, was on the correlation between ‘love’ and ‘effort’. They explored the claim that a friend of theirs made, saying that ‘your relationship should take no effort.’ They initially contested this, discussing that in growing through a relationship, and constantly meeting new versions of yourself and your partner, you must put in the effort to make it work, no matter how much you change. To learn, to listen and to grow, and therefore to love, is to put in effort. But they presented this issue as a dynamic one, equally considering the counterpoint — that this view could be expressing that a relationship should not feel like a chore. They recognise multiple perspectives to give a well-rounded discussion, allowing greater opportunity for their listeners’ thoughts to be reflected. And they end the segment with ‘so that was our chat yesterday’. These are actual conversations they have had, in

All things markets

Amberly Wright, Deputy Editor, explores the beauty of markets and their sustainable impacts

XETER is brilliant for independent shops and markets. The popular Cathedral Christmas Market happens to be the perfect place to buy Christmas gifts, whilst having one too many glasses of Eggnog. During the summer months, there are even more markets to explore, crafting a perfect way to spend a sunny afternoon.

Every Thursday from 9am to 12pm, Exeter’s Farmers Market offers local fresh produce from across Devon. The market is located near the Cathedral, where the High Street ends and Fore Street begins. The market sells a lot of locally sourced meat, as well as organic fruit and vegetables and, of course, iconic Cornish pasties.

Another frequent market is the Quayside market, which is open every third Saturday of the month between 9am and 1pm. The market hosts a plethora of local vendors and traders, as well as providing a space for independent sustainable businesses and charities to sell small amounts of their

stock. The market will next be open on the 20th June.

The Fore Street Flea is a well-established flea market in Exeter, which happens every few months, usually on a Sunday. The market spreads all the way down Fore Street and is home to many stalls selling vintage clothing and antique jewellery.

Totnes, which is around 45 minutes away from Exeter, is the perfect place to shop independently. The quaint market town is home to some of Devon’s quirkiest shops and cafes, all sharing the same sustainable ethos.

Totnes’ Christmas Market is something to be marvelled at, and they even host an Indoor Artisan Market which

Itakes place on the second Tuesday of the month.

If you’re open to travelling a bit further afield, Barnstaple’s Pannier market, located in North Devon, is open from Tuesday to Saturday from 9am to 4pm, and offers a bustling hive of fresh produce, unique gifts, and a wide range of food and drink.

The market is only a stone’s throw away from Bideford and Ilfracombe, both of which have plenty of independent shops. Slightly off-piste from markets, but still offering sustainable and handmade goodies, are the plethora of farm shops in Devon.

A student favourite is Darts Farm in Topsham, which makes a lovely day trip from Exeter. A personal favourite of mine

It's summer term in Exe

is Green Dale Farm Shop, which is a bit trickier to get to, but no less exciting. The farm is home to many animals such as donkeys, llamas, and highland cows. Exeter even offers the InExeter gift card which is available to use at 50+ independent stores in the city. One of these stores is the well-loved Maker Mart on Gandy Street, which sells handmade items from local artists, such as jewellery and prints. Also on Gandy Street, is a new event ‘First Thursdays’, where the shops and cafes stay open from 5pm to 8pm on the first Thursday of the month from June to September from 5pm to 8pm—the perfect way to spend a summer’s evening.

A STUDENT FAVOURITE IS DARTS FARM IN TOPSHAM WHICH MAKES A LOVELY DAY TRIP FROM EXETER

Daniel Pratt gives advice on how to manage exam season and leave room for time off

T'S coming, it's approaching, it's almost here! That's right, it's exam time, whether it's coursework, practical assessments, written exams or those ungodly 24-hour essays, it's summer term and therefore time to sit down and revise.

As a fifth-year postgrad, I believe I can provide some advice on how to manage revision while making the most of your summer. My elderly advice? Scheduling and flexibility, by dedicating parts of your day to revise according to a goal (like writing 200 words a day), your workload slowly disappears and becomes manageable. That deadline becomes a target rather than an oncoming storm. Yet life is more than work, and is unpredict-

able, so be flexible. When celebrating a friend’s birthday party or attending a society event, dedicate the work for another day or divide your day to have time for both. You can be dedicated to your degree while experiencing the excitement of uni life. Too much devotion to your routine can cause more stress if you are not flexible to allow for healthy breaks.

YOU CAN BE DEDICATED TO YOUR DEGREE WHILE EXPERIENCING THE EXCITEMENT OF UNI LIFE

We are not machines, and we need time for rest and recreation. Please don’t let the work build up and

become a burden that will crush you. Instead, master yourself and find a rhythm that fits your work life to chip away at this mountain of exams so that eventually it crumbles away. So when the time comes, you feel content and accomplished that you acted responsibly while making time for what's also important.

WE ARE NOT MACHINES, AND WE NEED TIME FOR REST AND RECREATION

an actual friendship — and we are so kindly being let in.

For a lovely dose of positivity and authenticity, listen to The Go Go Juice Podcast now.

Image: The Go Go Juice Podcast

Image: Flickr

Image: Pexels, Borough Market

Summer Travel Destinations

Lifestyle editors give their recommendations for places to visit this summer

AS summer is approaching, you may be thinking about your extra-long holidays. However, as current students, we are still limited by finances, time and jobs. So, with that in mind, I think I’ve found a perfect place for a weekend getaway.

Berlin is a city that I don’t think gets spoken enough in terms of holidays. Okay, you’re not going to be able to suntan on a beach here, but I do think the city offers something for everyone. Of course, there is the endless history within the city, making it the perfect place for all those history and learning lovers.

On the other side, Berlin is home to some of the best clubs in the world, including the infamous Berghain. Berlin also has great

places for shopping and thrifting, and hosts various museums, cafes, live music and pretty much anything else you could want in a city.

As it is not too far from the UK, you can get pretty cheap flights if you go on a budget airline. Also, the whole city is connected by a metro system that is relatively cheap and easy to figure out.

I would recommend staying in hostels if you’re on a budget. Berlin has some great ones right in the city. From my experience, food is also pretty cheap, but if you wanna save a few bucks you can stay in a hostel with a kitchen and cook from home. Overall, Berlin is an underrated city that I think makes the perfect weekend getaway for anyone. You definitely get a real feel for the city in just a few days, so if you can’t take much time off work this may be one to consider.

BERLIN IS AN UNDERRATED CITY THAT I THINK MAKES THE PERFECT WEEKEND GETAWAY FOR ANYONE

Kayleigh Swart, Editor-in-Chief

THE summer break is fast approaching and you're still questioning where to go? If you're drawn to warm weather and unhurried days, consider Nydri, a charming coastal town on the Greek island of Lefkada.

The area has everything a summer holiday

CONSIDER NYDRI, A CHARMING COASTAL TOWN ON THE GREEK

ISLAND OF LEFKADA

needs — fresh seafood, beautiful Mediterranean beaches with clear turquoise water, and a remarkable range of activities. You can snorkel alongside sea turtles, race across the water on jet skis, or take in the sweeping coastline from a paraglider. There is rarely a dull moment. My biggest recommendation would be a restaurant called Pomodoro on the waterfront. I went there four out of the seven nights I stayed because of the chatty staff and delicious food.

To make the most out of the island, hiring a car is strongly recommended. The roads won't win any awards, but they are manageable and will carry you reliably from Preveza airport across the bridge onto the island.

THE ROADS DON'T WIN ANY AWARDS BUT THEY ARE MANAGEABLE

you're

food and plenty of character. Just be aware that many shops close for a siesta in the early afternoon and reopen come evening, so plan accordingly. The main costs to budget for are flights and car rental, but travelling as a family or group significantly reduces the outlay, making Nydri surprisingly good value for a Mediterranean escape.

Taking an alternative route in your studies

Emily

Rizzo, Editor-in-Chief,

shares her experience taking a year abroad

WHILE the appeal of getting uni over with in the standard three years is a popular route, some of us may choose to make this time period last just a little longer, and make the most of its opportunities. Usually, this will look like taking a year of study abroad, or an industry placement. Luckily for Exeter students, both of these options are not only available, but encouraged by the university.

[TAKING A YEAR ABROAD, OR A PLACEMENT IS] NOT ONLY AVAILABLE, BUT ENCOURAGED BY THE UNIVERSITY

In my case, I opted for study abroad, turning down the attractive promise of a year’s salary and industrial experience in favour of travel bills and homesickness. And it was the best decision I ever made. Don’t get me wrong, it’s one of the most daunting things I’ve ever done, but it was worth every second of the budgeting, long-distance calls, and jetlag.

If you’ve got the travel bug, or have always dreamt of moving abroad, doing it within the university systems lets you experiment whilst having a safety net to fall back on if needed. The familiarity of student life mixes with the novelty of a new country and culture perfectly, and one of the best parts is taking courses specific to your host university. For me, this meant taking Pacific Cultures and New Zealand Film courses while in Auckland.

THE FAMILIARITY OF STUDENT LIFE MIXES WITH THE NOVELTY OF A NEW COUNTRY AND CULTURE PERFECTLY

Obviously, the academic side is a fraction of the study abroad experience, and believe me when I say you will be cramming assignments right up until the last minute before taking that road trip, or catching that flight. The opportunities for exploring your new environment will be irresistible, and completely worth putting uni work on the back-burner—and I say that as a long-time nerd who always puts her studies first. In fact, going abroad taught me to take all that academic pressure off myself, and make the most of everything else life has to offer.

It undeniably brings perspective to your own life, values and priorities. It also introduces you to different opinions, cultures and world-views which will show you new angles and ways of looking at things. Obviously, this will be as challenging as it is liberating, but it comes hand in hand with all the new knowledge a year abroad brings you.

INTRODUCING YOU TO DIFFERENT OPINIONS, CULTURES AND WORLDVIEWS WHICH WILL SHOW YOU NEW ANGLES AND WAYS OF LOOKING AT THINGS

My insufferable insistence on bringing up my year abroad at any chance proves what a great experience it was, and though it is one of the paths less traditionally taken during university, it's an invaluable experience that I cannot recommend enough to anyone possibly considering it.

Image: Wikimedia Commons

While

in the area, Preveza itself is well worth a day trip as a relaxed harbour town with good

Image: Flickr

Emma Williamson

Image: Creative Commons

THE 2026 Climate Fiction Prize has six novels shortlisted, with the winner to be announced on the 27th of May at a ceremony in London. The prize is supported by the global organisation Climate Spring, which aims to transform the media representation of the climate crisis.

arts & lit

Stories For a Burning World

Kitty Carter on the 2026 climate fiction prize

The shortlist was decided by a panel of judges, including novelists and climate scientists. The novels shortlisted are Dusk by Robbie Arnott, The Tiger’s Share by Keshava Guha, Awake in the Floating City by Susanna Kwan, Hum by Helen Phillips, Endling by Maria Reva and The Book of Records by Madeleine Thien.

Not only does the winner attend the London ceremony, but they also have the privilege of speaking with presenter, broadcaster, YouTuber and current judge Simon Savidge at the Hay Festival of Literature & Arts at the end of May.

All novels shortlisted engage with the crux of the prize itself, which is to explore the new cultural narrative forged in the rapidly

Ogrowing and significantly important genre of climate fiction. The novels themselves delve into a range of genres alongside their primary ecological motivation. Dusk dives into magical realism with a ferocious puma being hunted down. The Tiger’s Share is what we could describe as ‘state of the nation’ writing, with Delhi’s polluted smoke perforating the novel. San Francisco’s future is imagined as flooded in the dystopia Awake in the Floating City Hum’s human-esque robots are uncomfortably too close to our reality to call the novel a dystopia, so near-future fiction feels more applicable. In Endling , a war fiction tackling Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, a snail is the last

of its species. Finally, Thien’s The Book of Records is a staggering piece of speculative fiction. The £10,000 prize, previously won by Abi Daré’s And So I Roar, reflects a genre that is more urgent than ever. The 2026 Climate Fiction Prize makes a compelling case that fiction is not merely responding to the climate crisis— it is actively reshaping how we live through it.

FICTION IS NOT MERELY RESPONDING TO THE CLIMATE CRISIS IT IS ACTIVELY RESHAPING HOW WE LIVE THROUGH IT

LGBTQ+ Book Recommendations for Pride

H , where should I even start! If you’re looking for a sweet read, Alice Oseman’s Heartstopper is always the way to go. Like Oseman’s other works (which you should definitely read!), these graphic novels’ diverse and positive depiction of mental health, gender and sexuality is truly refreshing. Another easyto-read, light-hearted option is Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston. This BookTok sensation’s portrayal of the classic ‘enemiesto-lovers’ trope will leave you unable to stop reading. Both recommendations are great for unwinding after a year of heavy academic reading and draining exams. You can even watch their screen adaptations afterwards! For those looking instead for stories that will

immerse you to the point of shedding a few tears (or full-on waterfalls!), there are also plenty of options. For readers who love historical retellingsand even those who don’t – I recommend Madeline

Miller’s The Song of Achilles. Worth its’ BookTok fame, the novel depicts Achilles and Patroclus’ relationship beyond the Greek myth and is sure to touch your heart! Another deeply moving book is More Happy Than Not by Adam Silvera, author of They Both Die at the End. The thought-provoking plot of a memory-erasing machine left me completely enraptured and sobbing by the end!

LEFT ME COMPLETELY ENRAPTURED AND SOBBING

Finally, if you desire a break from prose, I recommend Marie Jean Chan’s poetry collection A Hurry of English. Chan depicts how her life has been impacted by her queer, Hong Kong -Chinese and British identity. It’s an excellent piece of modern poetry that is sure to move you! LGBTQ+ representation in literature has definitely come a long way, both in terms of mainstream popularity and the variety of plots and genres. This is just a small selection for you to embark on this pride month! Sofia Tapia, Lifestyle Editor

LGBTQ+ REPRESENTATION IN LITERATURE HAS DEFINITELY COME A LONG WAY

LGBTQ+ literature has become one of the most celebrated and acclaimed areas of the modern publishing landscape, offering readers stories that range from hopeful coming-of-age novels and inspiring historical fiction to sweeping fantasy epics.

One standout recent release is In Memoriam , a devastating First World War novel following two boys at an English boarding school whose love develops against the backdrop of trench warfare and international conflict. Far more than a romance, Alice Winn combines intimate emotional storytelling with vivid historical imagery to craft a haunting reflection on grief, masculinity and surviving unimaginable conflict through love.

LGBTQ+ representation has also increasingly flourished within the fantasy genre, with Samantha Shannon’s The Priory of the Orange Tree emerging as one of the defining fantasy novels of recent years. Through rich political intrigue, dragons and intricate worldbuilding, Shannon centres a slow-burning queer romance at the heart

QUEER STORIES CAN THRIVE WITHIN EXPANSIVE FANTASY WORLDS

Summer Releases

EQUEER STORIES CAN THRIVE WITHIN EXPANSIVE FANTASY WORLDS

of an epic narrative, proving queer stories can thrive within expansive fantasy worlds. For readers searching for something a little lighter, the YA genre has seen growing LGBTQ+ representation, with Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe standing as a trailblazer in queer coming-of-age fiction. Following two Mexican American teenagers as they navigate identity, masculinity, adolescence and first love, Benjamin Alire Sáenz captures the vulnerability and uncertainty of youth with remarkable warmth and sincerity. Together, these novels highlight the diversity and richness of contemporary queer literature. Whether through the heartbreaking realism of In Memoriam , the emotional warmth of Aristotle and Dante , or the sweeping fantasy of The Priory of the Orange Tree, these novels demonstrate how LGBTQ+ fiction continues to redefine contemporary literature through emotionally resonant and genre-defying narratives. universally, transcending labels and genres alike. Erin-Rose Morris, Arts & Lit Editor

Erin-Rose Morris, Arts & Lit Editor, shares some upcoming book releases

XAMS are over and summer reading season has officially arrived. Whether you are a devoted literary fiction fan or in pursuit of a fast-paced psychological thriller, the upcoming publishing calendar is stacked with exciting new releases this season. Among the most anticipated novels of the season is Maggie O’Farrell’s Land, the latest fiction work from the Women’s Prize-winning author of Hamnet. Set in 1865 Ireland, readers follow a cartographer and his estranged ten-year-old son as

they journey across a country scarred by the Great Hunger on a mission to map the whole of Ireland.

As they travel towards the Atlantic coast, O’Farrell explores the Irish landscape as a meditation on grief and survival, and a confrontation with the lingering scars of the past. Packed with her signature lyrical prose and emotional gravitas, Land is set to emerge as one of the defining literary releases of 2026.

At the opposite end of the literary spectrum, Freida McFadden returns with yet another addictive, edge-ofyour-seat psychological thriller. Known for her sharp

pacing and jaw-dropping twists, McFadden’s latest novel explores the collapse of marital bliss, where love quickly turns into vengeance and divorce becomes a dangerous game of survival. The Divorce, set for release on 26 May, transforms the conventional domestic story into a tense web of paranoia, cementing McFadden’s status as a commercial giant of thriller fiction.

Meanwhile, Matt Haig promises to return readers to the existential territory of The Midnight Library with its spiritual successor, The Midnight Train Readers follow passengers onboard a mysterious

time-travelling locomotive that allows them to revisit pivotal moments from their past and explore the paths not taken, blending speculative fiction with Haig’s trademark explorations of regret and second chances. Together, these novels promise a summer reading season filled with gripping twists, emotional depth, and the perfect excuse to finally ditch the textbooks.

“THE PERFECT EXCUSE TO FINALLY DITCH THE TEXTBOOKS”

Image: Brush with Bamboo

Image: Rawpixel

June Boom

Sam Hanlon covers the cultural activities on offer this June in Exeter

JUNE Boom returns next month, with plenty of cultural activities lined up!

The month-long event embraces the various arts and talents of Exeter in an accessible and inclusive manner. Alongside cultural appreciation, June Boom also pushes for diversity in the arts, with the Respect Festival taking part the first weekend of June. Taking place in Belmont Park, the event reminds Exeter of the rich cultural patchwork of the community and highlights the need for greater acceptance of diverse cultures. Don’t miss out on some of the open mic nights organised, such as on June the second at Exeter Phoenix, where budding prose writers and poets will be given the chance to show their works to the crowd in a five minute slot!

On June the seventh, the Book Market will take place at the Quay, offering independent bookshop stalls, a host of literary activities, and the opportunity to meet some local authors. The event is free to access, and provides a perfect motive for a sunny Sunday stroll down to the Quay. Drawing people together over a shared passion for literature serves as an opportunity for like-minded people to bond, such as dur ing the monthly Silent Book Club meeting (which is free to attend with your own book), creating a closer-knit community.

This June will also be one of music and theatre, with a range of musical performances to take place across Exeter. Exeter Phoenix will see the Electric Six hit the stage on June 18th, while the Exeter Corn Exchange will be the stage for Carpenters Gold on June 12th, a tribute act to the iconic Carpenters. The Manfreds are coming to Northcott Theatre, featuring two original members from Manfred Mann, so be sure not to miss that on June 12th if you love 60s classics. Northcott will also be hosting several the -

Exeter Takes Edinburgh

Satrical performances, with Richard Chappell Dance’s Us Folk on June 16th, a wonderful celebration of folk culture in the 21st century. Still Pointless by the BalletBoyz will also be brought to life on June 22nd and 23rd, with plenty of breathtaking movement to enjoy!

THIS JUNE WILL BE ONE OF MUSIC AND THEATRE

This year’s collaborative effort by Exeter City Council, Visit Exeter and In Exeter will not disappoint, and is sure to bring greater recognition to the importance of arts and literature!

Lucy Cornwell, Arts & Lit Editor, covers the University societies performing at Edinburgh

INCE the Edinburgh Fringe Festival started 79 years ago, Exeter University societies have performed many different shows over this time period, and 2026 is no different. Four university societies are bringing their skills to the world-renowned Edinburgh Fringe festival this August. From theatre to comedy and music, these four shows are bound to entertain you if you find yourself at the Fringe this summer! Tickets for all shows

YOU’LL FEEL LIKE YOU’VE STEPPED STRAIGHT OFF THE STREET AND INTO PITCH PERFECT !

are available on the Edinburgh Fringe website. Exeter University Theatre Company presents ‘Woyzeck’ by Georg Büchner. The nearly 200-year-old play follows a soldier who tries to make sense of the world around him as he is forced into a downward spiral that has violent consequences after being abused by his doctor, suffering class inequalities, religious pressures, and the traumas of war. EUTCo describes the play as a ‘timeless reflection on the need for social change’. The show will be performed from the 24th-29th of August at theSpace on the Mile. Boasting a spate of sell out shows at the Fringe all the way back to 2017, Exeter University’s only performance choir Spotlights present their new show ‘A Night at the Musicals’. The show will be a celebration of all things musical theatre with soaring harmonies, captivating choreography and

an 11-piece live band! The show boasts a lineup of musical hits from your favourite shows and is sure to introduce you to some new songs from the world of musical theatre. You’ll be sure to leave humming the tunes after seeing this show from the 24th-29th of August at Big at theSpaceTriplex.

Over a third of all shows at the Fringe are comedy, and Exeter Comedy Society is adding to that impressive number with their show ‘Got Mushroom for Sketch Comedy?’. After a year of being tested by university deadlines and the continually harrowing state of the world, they’re here to discover whether there are any funny bones left in their bodies. They’ll have you rolling in the aisles from the 24th-29th August in Theatre 2 at theSpace @ Surgeons’ Hall.

Fresh off celebrating their achievement of becoming UK finalists at the International

Exeter Comedy Festival

FChampionship of Collegiate A Cappella (ICCA), the Exeter Illuminations are back at the Fringe with their show ‘To Be Arranged’, which runs from the 24th-29th of August right in the centre of the action at theSpace @ Niddry Street. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped straight off the street and into Pitch Perfect as the 15 person acapella group Illuminations is sure to blow your socks off with their singing, beatboxing and choreography!

Image: WikimediaCommons

Emma Williamson covers this Summer’s Lineup for Exeter Comedy Festival

ROM the third to the seventh of June, the Exeter Comedy Festival is coming to the city. Spread across 25 venues, the festival promises something for everyone, whether you’re a long-time comedy fan, or just looking for a fun night out. Expect big names, family-friendly shows, interactive workshops, and plenty of stand-up sets to keep you entertained throughout the week. Tickets are available through their official website, and there’s currently a deal of five shows for just £40. However, don’t hang around! Several shows have already sold out, so it’s worth booking sooner rather than later to avoid disappointment. The programme is packed with a wide variety of events to suit all tastes. Highlights include workshops where you can learn from the pros, film screenings for a more relaxed

evening, and of course, plenty of standup performances. Things kick off in style on the third of June with a gala night, setting the tone for what’s shaping up to be a fantastic week of comedy across the city.

THE PROGRAMME IS PACKED WITH A WIDE VARIETY OF EVENTS TO

The line-up is impressive. Mike Wozniak takes to the stage on Thursday fourth of June at The Hall, followed by Mark Watson on the 6th, rounding off the weekend brilliantly. Also performing on Friday the fifth,

Nish Kumar heads to the unique setting of Topsham Brewery, while Josh Widdicombe and Friends bring their show to the Barnfield Theatre on the same evening, mak -

ing it a tough night to choose between acts. I’m particularly excited to see Sophie Duker perform. I first came across her on Taskmaste r, and since then I’ve become a fan of her comedy. Her genuine energy adds a spark to her performances which makes them thoroughly entertaining to watch. She has a natural stage presence and a sharp wit that sets her apart from others, and I think her show will be one of the standout performances of

SHE HAS A NATURAL STAGE PRESENCE AND A

Image: StockSnap.io

MUSIC

Back down to Earth: Phoebe Bridgers returns

Kitty Carter discusses the enigmatic re-appearance of the famed singer

ROSWELL, New Mexico. A location known for its UFO sightings, such as in 1947, when a flying disc crash-landed. It’s also where a mysterious figure reappeared: the recently elusive Phoebe Bridgers. On May eighth at The Liberty in Roswell, Bridgers held a surprise 300-person show, playing old and new songs, with cellular devices banned. In ‘Chinese Satellite’, a song from her renowned album ‘Punisher’, she sings "I want to believe / That if I go outside I’ll see a tractor beam / Coming to take me to where I’m from."

"I

the site of the 1951 ‘Lubbock Lights’ where Vformations of lights appeared in the sky and remain unexplained. At the shows, she performed a mix of songs from her old catalogue, in cluding ‘Mo tion Sick ness’ and

was in Little Rock, Arkansas (which also has a rich history of UFO and Cryptid sightings), and she played five new songs. The shows themselves were strict on entry rules, with phones, re -

I WANT TO BELIEVE / THAT IF I GO OUTSIDE I’LL SEE A TRACTOR BEAM / COMING TO TAKE ME TO WHERE I’M FROM.

WHERE I’M FROM"

Not only was this one of the songs she sang at the show, but this theme of UFOs and a desire to believe in the supernatural is one that accompanies her new music. Fans on Reddit who were lucky enough to get a wristband described the set of the second show in detail, noting the space motifs on posters. Her second showing was in Lubbock, Texas,

‘Kyo to’, alongside three new, untitled songs. Fans who attended described the new music as reminiscent of her achingly sad song ‘Sidelines’, which was written alongside Marshall Vore and Ruby Rain Henley. Her third show

Review: The Great Divide

Emily S Rizzo, Editor-in-Chief, explores the painful themes in Kahan's new album

AS everyone scrambles to book into therapy in the wake of Noah Kahan’s latest album, it’s worth taking a look into what exactly he puts in his songs in order to trigger the avalanche of emotions plaguing his listeners.

Known for his indie-folk sound, his painfully poetic lyrics, and his commitment to shining a light on the truth of mental health struggles and past trauma, The Great Divide ticks all the boxes of the Kahan brand. Since hitting the shelves, the opening track, 'End of August' has already been claimed as the melancholy backdrop to nostalgic social media posts, while the singles “Porchlight” and “The Great Divide” have ranked highly since entering the charts in the last few months. Though cynics point out the album is strikingly reminiscent of Stick Season , Kahan definitely explores more complex issues this time round. Whether it’s the pain of revisiting a hometown you no longer recognise, or the feeling of helplessness against the tide of change, the singer effortlessly captures emotions that some of us didn’t even know we were feeling.

KAHAN DEFINITELY EXPLORES MORE COMPLEX ISSUES THIS TIME ROUND

Setting the tone for what his fans are already calling “sad girl summer,” his songs provide a lyrical catharsis for those of us who are struggling with a sense of self in

a fast-moving world, mourning those people and places that were once a part of our everyday, and realising that time will leave no memory or experience unscathed.

HIS SONGS PROVIDE A LYRICAL CATHARSIS FOR THOSE STRUGGLING WITH A SENSE OF SELF

One for the hopeless romantics and the heartbroken poets of the world, The Great Divide creates almost as much emotional damage as it heals, and Noah Kahan will be hearing from my lawyers for his actions. But for now, I’ll enjoy the messy vulnerability of his music, and the heart-felt openness of his message to the world.

cording devices, pens and papers banned. This kind of intimate re-emergence is exactly what we expect from Phoebe Bridgers. The Yondr pouches used to enforce the no-phones rule, reveal

scraps of a larger artwork—fans are theorising that these could be forming the album cover. Bridger's striking authenticity, intimacy, and sonic-infused folk is what sets her discography apart from other songwrit ers. Not only that, but she’s also part of Boygenius, who continued to release mu sic during her hiatus from her solo career. Bridger’s management company has since released photos of her in the studio with the likes of her partner, Bo Burnham, 1975 frontliner Matty Healy, producer Jack Antonoff and singer-songwriter Alex G. Whatever happens next, it’s clear that Bridgers is back. From Roswell to Little Rock, these intimate, impromptu shows feel like a transmission, a signal from somewhere beyond the horizon, promising that there is something bigger on the way

IT'S CLEAR THAT BRIDGERS

IS BACK.

Review: Rock Music

Cristina Ferrin Pereda, Music Editor, discusses Charli XCX's upcoming album

CHARLI XCX’s new single, 'Rock Music', has divided fans. Since Charli had declared this album would mark a shift from her previous, more dance-y albums. If we’re basing ourselves off this single, it doesn’t really seem that way. However, it is far enough removed from Brat to count as a new direction whilst simultaneously keeping up the appealing honest and blunt lyrical edge.

The lyrics boldly declare, "I think the dance floor is dead / So now we’re making rock music". And though some may take this literally, with cynics pointing out that this isn’t the ‘rock music’ it claims to be, this is not the statement the singer is trying to make. Charli XCX never claimed to be making a rock album.

CHARLI XCX NEVER CLAIMED TO BE MAKING A ROCK ALBUM

'Rock Music' is unequivocally a pop song, despite the heavily distorted electric guitars and live drums. What makes it so unique, as it happens with most of her discography, is the imperfection of the song that seems so far removed from the perfectly tuned mainstream standard. With fun and chaotic lyrics, it’s hard for it to not get stuck in our heads.

'ROCK MUSIC' IS UNEQUIVOCALLY A POP SONG

This single has made me eager to discover what the rest of the album might sound like, regardless of it being rock or not.

Image: Wikimedia Commons

Image: Flickr

Image: Pexels

Image: Wikimedia Commons

EDITOR: Cristina Ferrin Pereda

The Rise of Lyricism

Kayleigh Swart, Editor-in-Chief, offers her thoughts on the current lyrical resurgence

POWERFUL lyricism has always been an important part of music. This has always been prominent in genres such as country, folk, and indie; now more and more, pop music is focusing on the lyrical and story-telling aspects. While pop has always contained lyrics with deeper meaning, from looking at how music has changed in the last decade there seems to be a shift onto much more complex lyrics that require more thought than the pop music of the 2010s. This isn’t to discredit pop music of the 2010s. Many of those popular songs still have clear messages and feelings but are normally more direct about it. Singers and groups like Katy Perry, Imagine Dragons, Ariana Grande and Bruno Mars come to mind. While these people are still popular now, the ways in which they make music has changed. When talking about lyricism it would be impossible to ignore Taylor Swift. Taylor Swift is

THE long-awaited day came. We all screamed when we saw the Instagram post. A burning fire, that recognisable silhouette (yes, with the new eradefining pixie cut) and a mysterious acronym means one thing—fresh Gracie Abrams music. She announced her new single ‘Hit the Wall’ on the first of the month and, 14 days later, it was ours. And it didn’t disappoint.

IT'S no secret that concert tickets have slowly been becoming less and less affordable. However, in recent years, these tickets have no longer been increasing by small margins, rather hundreds of pounds (or other currency). For example, Olivia Rodrigo, once a more niche star, is now charging over £300 for her highest price ticket closest to the stage. Noah Kahan, despite being arguably less famous than Rodrigo, has added an additional £50 to his ticket prices for the same tickets in the same venue as his last tour. This has caused a split between their fanbases; some fans are outraged that they’ve been priced out of seeing their favourite artists, some fans still devoted enough to buy in to the high prices.

probably who most people would think of when talking about lyrics in pop music. Whether you like her music or not, her lyrics are the thing she is best known for. This of course comes from the start of her career, when she focused more on country music which is normally more lyric focused. However, she kept this up when switching to pop music. There is no denying this has worked in her favour; twenty years after her debut album she is more popular than ever.

Some dedicated fans might argue that it is fair to increase ticket prices. Artists who started small, like Rodrigo or Sabrina Carpenter, have

While I think it would be an overstatement to say that Swift is the reason for the rise of lyricism, her popularity does suggest that audiences are wanting this type of connection

through music. Some of the most popular current pop stars have songs filled with lyricism. For example, Olivia Rodrigo combines her rock/pop sound with deep and personal lyrics that listeners cannot help but relate to. She is nowhere near the only one. While Chappell Roan has fun, over-the-top pop backgrounds in her songs, her lyrics are full of deep meaning. Just because many of these songs have upbeat and loud productions, does not take away the deeper meanings from them. Sabrina Carpenter, for example, has songs with complex lyric patterns that aren’t always noticed due to the ‘pop’ness of her songs. Even singers that are less popular seem to be following this trend. To name a few: Maisie Peters; Laufey; Wallows etc. It is clear that while pop music has always been full of meanings, the ways in which they are presented has become more complex and thought out. Not everything you can understand about a song can be un -

derstood on first listen. I personally love this shift in the way that pop music is written. It feels like pop music has become more personal through the amount of detail artists are putting into their songs. However, music trends are constantly changing and developing, so who knows where pop music will go next.

Song Analysis: Hit the Wall

I was captivated by this song just from the short extract that accompanied the Instagram post. The opening verse is poetry, and certainly sets the tone for the rest of the song. Abrams takes real-world objects and transforms them into metaphors. These objects are easily understandable—a "crack in the pavement" is a clear symbol of imperfection, and a "slip knot" captures the instability of feeling like you could come ‘undone’ at any point. These aren’t highly romanticised images; they are immediate and every-day, and encapsulate the song’s core themes of self-destruction.

ABRAMS TAKES REALWORLD OBJECTS AND TRANSFORMS THEM INTO METAPHORS

THIS HAS CAUSED A SPLIT BETWEEN THEIR FANBASES [SWIFT'S] LYRICS ARE THE THING SHE IS BEST KNOWN FOR

Abrams proposes a series of juxtapositions, like comparing "seeing clearly" with "bloodshot" or "stable" and "cave", which highlight the warring tension between embracing the good of a relationship and running away out of fear. It’s raw in every way. "I live in a pattern of breakdowns"? It’s blunt, confessional and so painfully honest.

IT'S

BLUNT, CONFESSIONAL, AND SO PAINFULLY HONEST

The song has four verses, the lines’ structures strikingly mirror one another, and she sings the song’s title 11 times—this repetition makes the listener experience the same cyclical feeling that Gracie portrays herself as trapped in. Until perhaps right at the end, where she

cannot quite utter that final "hit the wall", and instead closes with "I just". This could hint at an attempt to break this cycle? Or maybe it's the opposite—she feels so defeated by this emotional overload that she cannot bring herself to recognise her failure one more time. The only way to truly peel open these complicated layers will be to listen to her brandnew album, Daughter from Hell , on July 17th.

Is the rise in ticket prices justifiable?

clearly grown in talent and vocal strength, meaning that they are now putting on better quality entertainment than in the past. Charging more for a better performance with higher production value seems fair because audiences are paying for what they get: more fun, better vid eos, improved sound, stronger vocals. Thus, the performance is more valuable than in the past and therefore poten tially worth more in monetary value. In addition, a lot of performances are becoming longer. As artists expand their dis cography, their shows are becoming longer. This means that prices are becoming relevant to the length of the show. Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour became one of the longest concerts, lasting almost four hours not including the open -

ing acts. The concert went on for so long that she exceeded the legal time to play loud music in Wembley Stadium each night in London. Swift may’ve shocked fans with her extortionate prices of hundreds of pounds per ticket, but they weren’t just paying for an hour of music like they were in her early career, they were paying for an entire evening of entertainment. Therefore, the high prices could be justified by how much of the show fans get to see.

In contrast, raising ticket prices does price out some fans. Fans that can’t afford these prices are denied seeing their favourite artists, or have to sit in the very back. This is ironic at the point where artists claim to care deeply about each

of their fans in a parasocial manner, but the tour’s pricing is evidently structured in a manner that makes profit, grossing artists hundreds of thousands or even millions of pounds depending on the length of the tour or their popularity. This could be a demonstration of artists running their role as a musician like a business, faking intimacy with their entire fanbase in exchange for taking advantage of the richest few in order to maximise profit.

ARTISTS CLAIM TO CARE DEEPLY ABOUT THEIR FANS

Notably, the blame shouldn’t be targeted at artists. Often venues and management teams are responsible for higher pricing (i.e., it has become more expensive to hold a concert in particular stadiums). This is especially true at festivals where artists don’t have influence over ticket prices. Thus, when fans are outraged at how much they may have to spend, it is important not to create backlash towards the artists, rather the industry, as the artists are unlikely to be at fault.

Chloe Burrows discusses the inflation of concert ticket prices

Image: Prism.fm

Rosa Terry, Lifestyle Editor, thoughtfully examines Gracie Abrams' new song

Image: Wikimedia Commons

Image: Wikimedia Commons

screen

Book to Screen Adaptations

Lauren Walsh, Deputy Editor, discusses the most ancitipated adaptations coming to the big screen this year

BOOK to screen adaptations seem to be having their heyday at the moment, with the roaring success of many of this year’s big cinema releases being based on novels, such as Wuthering Heights, Project Hail Mary and even the more recent The Sheep Detectives (which I am yet to see but seems to be getting more five star reviews than I expected for a film about talk-

Image:Flickr

Cristina Ferrin,

SPOILERS AHEAD

I’D like to preface this article by stating that I’m a massive Off Campus fan. I’ve read the original series at least three times, as well as the Briar U and Campus Diaries series, so I think I have a solid basis for judging the show. This show had me hooked from the very start, I could not unglue my eyes from the screen for hours. Amazon Prime has handsdown the best book to screen adaptations. It captured the novel very well and even though changes were made, mostly for timeline reasons, they made sense to the overall plot. I also think the casting choices were amazing, despite

ing sheep solving a murder). And it’s not limited to films, the Canadian TV show adaptation of Rachel Reid’s ice hockey enemies to lovers romance Heated Rivalry experienced unprecedented amounts of success earlier this year, and skyrocketed hitherto-unknown actors Hudson Williams and Connor Storrie to fame, despite having minimal budget and shooting in just under a month.

And 2026’s offering of book adaptations does not end there! There are many more to come, too many to name, but here are the book to screen adaptations that I am looking forward to the most. First on my list is Netflix’s upcoming adaptation of Pride and Prejudice. Starring Emma Corrin and Jack Lowden as the famous Elizabeth Bennet and Mr Darcy, this adaptation has big shoes to fill going up against previous adaptations of Jane Austen’s beloved novel, the 1995 BBC series, as well as the 2005 film starring Keira Knightley. While I believe this series is unlikely to live

up to its predecessors, as it is written by Dolly Alderton (author of Everything I know about Love) and directed by Euros Lyn (director of Heartstopper and His Dark Materials, to name a few), I remain optimistic, and am excited to see what new aspects they can bring to the classic tale.

Next up is the latest instalment in Suzanne Collins’ The Hunger Games franchise, Sunrise on the Reaping, slated to hit cinemas on the 20th of November. Another prequel to the original dystopian trilogy, Sunrise follows fan-favourite character Haymitch Abernathy when he takes part in the 50th Hunger Games, with twice as many tributes to compete against as normal. As a huge fan of The Hunger Games, words cannot explain how excited I am for this film, and the trailers so far have not disappointed. Fans have praised this film in particular for its casting, as many fan casts from social media have become a reality, for example with Mckenna Grace be-

Review: Off Campus

ing cast as Maysilee Donner, and Elle Fanning as Effie Trinket. Joseph Zada plays Haymitch.

MANY FAN CASTS FROM SOCIAL MEDIA HAVE BECOME A REALITY

Finally, the long-awaited conclusion to Denis Villeneuve’s sci-fi epic, Dune: Part Three releases just in time for Christmas, on the 18th of December. Based on the book Dune Messiah by Frank Herbert sees Paul Atreides (Timothee Chalamet) deal with the fallout of his rise to power and the threat of holy war. But if you can’t wait until the end of the year for your next book to screen hit, Christopher Nolan’s star-studded adaptation of The Odyssey comes out on the 17th of July, and promises to be a true epic.

Music Editor, reviews Prime’s adapation of the popular college romance series

previous doubts; the actors chosen make sense now that we’ve seen their chemistry on screen. Now, this doesn’t mean I don’t have my critiques, but I do think it’s hard to criticise how well-portrayed some of the storylines are, because they are still incomplete. I would have liked Garrett be less serious. In The Deal , he’s a lot funnier and more carefree, and above all a yearner!

IN THE DEAL , [GARRETT’S] A LOT FUNNIER AND MORE CAREFREE, AND ABOVE ALL A YEARNER

I don’t think this was reflected to the same extent in the show. Also, they radically changed Logan’s backstory, which was so essential for why he was so dead-set on enjoying his time playing hockey at Briar U, so I wonder how they’ll develop this in the next season.

My highlight of the show, as it has always been with the books

Pride on Screen: Moonlight

Ttoo, was Allie and Dean. Despite not being book-accurate, Mika Abdallah embodied Allie perfectly, and the chemistry between her and Stephen Kalyn was off the charts. Everything about them was perfect and the ending of the season made me all the more excited for the next.

With filming set to begin this June, we can only hope that Season 2 will be here before long.

MY HIGHLIGHT OF THE SHOW WAS ALLIE AND DEAN... EVERYTHING ABOUT THEM WAS PERFECT

Beth Casey, Editor-in-Chief, explores the best representations of LGBTQ+ relationships on screen

HERE’S a lot to be said for loud representation—the films that signified a watershed in queer representation, and broke the boundaries of what was ‘acceptable’ on screen. Brokeback Mountain, Queer as Folk, and Milk are all examples of texts that attempt in many ways to represent wider experiences and stories, across the community. The first sweep of paint, blazing on a blank canvas. In my own viewing, some of the best films surrounding LGBTQ+ relationships and individuals, are the ones that are subtle and unassuming. But we couldn’t reach that point without the trailblazers making waves first. When no representation occurs, there follows a burden to represent all forms of that group, or at the very least create media that can be relatable to the majority. Now that queer relationships are more prevalent in mainstream media, nuance and gradation can be added with smaller brushstrokes.

WHEN NO REPRESENTATION OCCURS THERE FOLLOWS A BURDEN TO REPRESENT ALL FORMS OF THAT GROUP

Moonlight (2016), for example, is incredibly subtle in its storytelling. It focuses on the intersectionality of class, race and sexuality. Specifically, how they are frequently inextricable from each other and can entirely shape a Queer individual’s engagement with the world. Masculinity is the film’s biggest focus: there’s a battle between toughness and sensitivity, and the role homosexuality plays in this it is not the only facet of the story. It leaves the topic feeling incredibly grounded.

The film follows Chiron, a young black man navigating his sexual identity in a rough Miami neighbourhood, outlining his struggles in three pivotal stages in his life. The first act is centred on Little. An absent

father and drug addicted mother lead him to find support from Juan, a drug-dealer-cum-father-figure who teaches Little enough to keep his head above the water. But this stage in his life is steeped in loneliness and pain.

The middle is where we meet Chiron, a student in a hostile school environment who is singled out for his differences. Chiron’s innocence is lost here, both literally in an interaction with his friend Kevin, but also in the haze of fear that follows. The next time we see him he is a muscular man who goes by Black. His body is now his armour, and drugs are now his profession.

The visuals of the film are frequently lauded –it won best picture in 2017—especially its distinctive black and blue colour palette. Considering how the story seems to be focused on Chiron’s response to pain, the visual similarity to bruising feels deliberate.

The gradation to the story is what happens after the pain, and his protection against further vulnerability (for Chiron, this seems to be his innocence and sexuality) and further bruising. By the end of the film,

he has lost his bruises, but also his sexual identity in the creation of his identity as a man. While the narrative itself isn’t incredibly uplifting, it does create conversations about homophobia in the black community. It explores an area of LGBTQ+ representation that while specific, is relatable in more general considerations of masculinity and homosexuality, and for that I’ll always, always recommend it.

Image: Geograph Britain and Ireland

Image: Printerval

Image: Flickr

Image: Wikimedia Commons

The Devil Wears Prada 2

Sophia Cuschieri, Welfare Executive, discusses this hotly anticipated sequel

the film, it wasn’t without a few faults.

AFTER 20 years of waiting, the iconic, witty classic has finally been given a sequel. The Devil Wears Prada 2 is a nostalgic return to the world of Runway, with its cast proving that aging is truly optional. The sequel brings back Anne Hathaway, Meryl Streep, Emily Blunt and Stanley Tucci, all successfully slipping back into their iconic roles.

The film does a brilliant job at picking up the story 20 years later, with a focus on navigating modern media challenges. With people not reading magazines as much anymore, and the creative world being threatened with AI, the subject matter feels very relevant making it somewhat painful to see how much things have changed since the first film came out.

THE ICONIC, WITTY CLASSIC HAS FINALLY BEEN GIVEN A SEQUEL

The outfits, which are almost as important as the plot itself, are stunning with the occasional miss, I’m looking at you Miranda’s Tassel Jacket. Along with gorgeous outfits, the soundtrack is filled with hit after hit with incredible needle drops and a welcomed Lady Gaga dominance. The film of course also pays tribute to its predecessor, with throwbacks that don’t feel gimmicky and instead perfectly tickle your nostalgia funny bone. The film truly proves that nostalgia bait works. Even though I thoroughly enjoyed watching

The film had a bit of a clunky start setting up where all the characters are years later and I feel like the whole scandal plot line was moved past too quickly. As much as I loved Miranda in this, and got chills whenever she was rude to someone, she felt a little off. While she was still mean, she lost a bit of her edge. My biggest complaint though is the pointless love interest for Andy. Her new, one-dimensional boyfriend added nothing to the plot other than filling time. As much as I love a romantic side-plot, please let your leading lady live without a man. What is wrong with a heroine without a love interest? But apart from that, I had a great time watching this. It’s a fun return to the world of Runway, filled with great oneliners that capture the magic of the original.

THE FILM TRULY PROVES THAT NOSTALGIA BAIT WORKS

Review: Rivals season Two

Kitty Carter offers praise for the latest series of the raunchy drama

SPOILERS AHEAD

RIVALS is the raunchy and unapologetic guilty pleasure that everyone and their grandma tuned into. Based on Jilly Cooper’s bestselling book series, Rivals offers something lighter amongst the constant stream of darker television series. Season two returns us to 1980s Rutshire, the quaint and fictional village in the Cotswolds. Season two opens with a splash: that is, the new arrivals of the polo-playing Carlisle twins, played by Bobby Lockwood and Maxym Ais. There are other new faces: that of Rupert Campbell Black’s ex-wife, played by Hayley Atwell, and her husband, Rupert’s ex-showjumping coach, played by Rupert Everett.

RIVALS IS THE RAUNCHY AND UNAPOLOGETIC GUILTY PLEASURE THAT EVERYONE TUNED INTO.

However, Rivals ’ typical raunchiness is underscored by poignant moments like Taggie’s heartache over her love for Rupert, confessing in the first episode that “he said he couldn’t breathe without me”. This season promises far more familial and franchise politics than the last—the latter being a complaint of some who watched it. Rather, I think it brings the balance to what could otherwise be described as, like Jilly Cooper’s novels in the Rutshire series, bonkbusters. We learn far more of Rupert, with enough of his scandalous past emerging in episode two that some drastic changes are made.

Summer on screen

WEverything in the 80s world of Rivals is of excess, and this season is no different. Part of Rivals ’ charm is the archival costumes and distinctly real feel to the environment. This, alongside the sheer strength and talent of the cast, is why everyone is waiting with bated breath for the next instalment. After the first three episodes arrived on the 15th May, three more, across three weeks, will be released. From there, it’s a matter of months until the final six episodes are released. Far from the pace at which the first season was binged, this delayed gratification will only serve its viewers well.

EVERYTHING IN THE 80S WORLD OF RIVALS IS OF EXCESS

Kayleigh Swart, Editor-in-Chief, shares her on-screen picks for the perfect Summer’s day

HILE most would associate watching films and TV with the colder months, there is something special about finishing a hot, sticky, summer’s day by watching a film with the windows open, and maybe a fun iced beverage in hand. However, you can’t just watch any old film. Call me crazy but there are films meant for summer, and films meant for winter. So, if you’re feeling a bit stuck on what to put on, here are some films and shows that I think perfectly capture that summer’s feeling.

ing along with your friends and family. In a similar vein, Call Me By Your Name is set in rural Italy, which makes you want to pack up your bags and move as soon as possible. A film I don’t often hear people talking about is Palm Springs . The film is like a Groundhog Day situation in which two people find themselves repeating the day of a wedding over and over again.

classic, I love to rewatch The Little Mermaid every year. It is comforting and familiar, but also not cosy in the way you’d want for a summer film.

If you want to stick to the animated genre, Pixar’s more recent Luca gained massive popularity over social media platforms and is overall a sweet story you can get stuck into.

The first few films are perhaps some of the most obvious. Mamma Mia screams summer, and there is no better feeling than sing -

However, it is set in the backdrop of (you’ve guessed it) Palm Springs, which provides the perfect summer setting. If you want something more

If you’re in it for the long haul, there are also some great TV shows that have that summer feeling. Maybe controversially I would like to point out Euphoria season one. By season one, I mean season one. I don’t think season two or what we have of three quite fit into this. But the first season is visually stunning, and I think the cinematography lends itself to those summer nights. And if you want something slightly less intense, I would point towards Anne with an E.

Image: Wallpaper Cave

Image: Wikimedia Commons

Excetera Excetera...

 Summer 

Stars 

CAPRICORN (22 DEC — 19 JAN)

You can turn off the overachiever mode now.

AQUARIUS (20 JAN — 18 FEB)

A beach trip is in your future.

PISCES (19 FEB — 20 MAR)

Summer nights are long, but you can also go to bed.

ARIES (21 MAR — 19 APR)

Cliffdiving summer? Someone call Redbull.

TAURUS (20 APR — 20 MAY)

Time for those birthday celebrations!

GEMINI (21 MAY — 20 JUNE)

Prepare for unpexected social connections.

CANCER (21 JUN — 22 JUL)

Summertime sadness is only temporary!

LEO (23 JUL — 22 AUG)

It’s the summer of love and matcha lattes.

VIRGO (23 AUG — 22 SEP)

You can put away the flashcards now.

LIBRA (23 SEP — 22 OCT)

Summer might be your villian era.

SCORPIO (23 OCT — 21 NOV)

Ferris wheels and popcorn are in the works.

SAGITTARIUS (22 NOV — 21 DEC)

Listen to that urge to travel!

Let’s Talk About It...

Beth Casey, Editor-in-Chief , discusses how to make the most of summer and take care of yourself

THE end of the year has arrived which for some means saying goodbye to Exeter for good, while others just until September. Whether you’re embarking into the real world, or set to return, the end of term can be one filled with bitter-sweet nostalgia. It’s important in this time to allow space for reflection, but also to take care of yourself post deadline season!

1. Step one: Rest

This is where you catch up on sleep debt and just generally get rid of those eye bags. You’ve probably been in survival mode for the past two months, if not since Christmas, so it’s crucial you let yourself decompress. For me, it usually takes a week of bed-rotting with my dog lying next to me, catching up on the reading and tv that was pushed to the bottom of the priority list during the peak assignment era. But there’s an art to this. For many, bed-rotting often involves doom scrolling and staying up late staring at various size screens. This is not my suggestion. I would advise letting yourself relax and cool off in whatever way you can – napping, reading, tv, walking, running. Whatever helps your brain get out of ‘uni’ mode.

2. Step Two: Reset

Once you reach boredom, you know you’ve rested enough. This is when I would suggest you start making those summer plans and outings. Don’t go crazy – plenty of people plan too much too fast and burnout. But keeping busy in a calm sense is the best way to keep your mind active and protect your mental health. This is also when I would suggest you do a bit of a cleanout of your space. For many, returning home means finding your bedroom full of boxes and junk, having been delegated to the ‘dumping ground’ of the household. If you’re moving out between years, you might also have an overload of things to bring back with you. Getting yourself in order pre-

Summer is here, and with it, a change in our eating habits. Often, we gravitate to light foods, or ‘picky bits’ as my family like to call their grazing style of eating. But this does’t mean we can’t pad out our lighter meals with the heavy duty nutrients our bodies need. This salad is a staple for me, postgym on a summer afternoon. Hopefully you’ll love it too!

Makes: 2 servings

Preparation time: approx. 3040 mins

Kitchenware: Saucepan, mixing bowl, chopping board

vents you living in a cluttered space for months, and stops the weird temporary feeling that can happen over summer where you’re home but not fully.

3. Step 3: Routines

My next step, once you’ve got a space that’s clean and organised, is to set up some habits that you can maintain through the months. Nothing crazy, if you do everything at once it ends up being less effective. Just think of setting up a habit a week, whether that’s conscious water drinking or keeping your wake up time the same. Don’t put too much pressure on these, but keeping something consistent throughout the months makes it easier when plans might mean your schedule changes a lot. My favourite routine in summer is my morning routine – the early light, the coolness in the mornings, making a good breakfast, exercising. It sounds like a lot written down but it’s investing in yourself in a low stakes way.

4. Step 4: Revelling

All this self care is important, because it’ll give you the energy to do what we editors have called ‘revelling.’ This is your summer fun – whether you’re going on holiday, staying in your local area, or completing some kind of summer internship, you will undoubtedly at some point, be looking to let loose. The summer pub gardens are always a good option, beach BBQs with friends and families never disappoint, and if you live near a body of water paddleboarding or water sports are perfect this time of year. Whatever you decide, make sure you celebrate making it through another year of your degree or for some, graduating!

Recipe: Steak Salad

Ingredients (steak marinade):

·10 oz Ribeye steak

1.2 tsp salt

Black Pepper Olive oil

Balsamic vineagar

Garlic powder

For the Salad : Lettuce or leafy greans

Chopped cucumbers

Sliced red onion

Cherry tomatoes

Sliced avocado

Feta (if you’d like!)

1.In a small bowl, mix the marinade ingredients and let the steak rest for 30 mins at room temp.

2. Heat a tbsp of oil in a frying pan and sear the steak for 3-7 minutes each side depending on preference.

3. Remove and slice after leaving it to rest for another 5 minutes.

4. Chop the salad ingredients and assemble in the mixing bowl.

5.Add the sliced steak and your favourite salad, serve and enjoy!.

Beth Casey Editor-in-Chief

Image: The Cleanery

Image: Pexels

Image: Wikimedia Commons

Images: Flickr, Easy Gluten Free Cooking

EDITORS: Beth Casey and Charlotte Isbell

CROSSWORD

Across 1 Round in a complete revolution (4-6)

8 Material thing (6)

9 Lit bar (anagram) - of a clan (6)

10 Acid-tasting (4)

12 US DOD headquarters (8)

13 Harbour (4)

14 Prandial occasion (4)

18 (Snooker) ball-positioning frame (8)

20 Tug (4)

21 Border (6)

22 Second power (mathematics) (6,4)

24 Tiny (informal) (5-5)

ANSWERS

Down

2 Utilise (3)

3 Breaks (informal) (3-3)

4 Meaning - purpose (6)

5 Dishonest practice - hear cynic (anagram) (9)

6 Orate (anagram) - Muse of love poetry (Greek mythology) (5)

7 In a foreign country (6)

11 Four right-angled parallelogram (9)

15 Any URL (anagram) - of the moon (6)

16 (Recruitment) office (6)

17 Tenant (6)

19 Respond (5)

23 Tall and rounded vase (3)

6 Erato, 7

Film and Television.

SUDOKU

Trivia Corner

WHAT WAS THE VARSITY RUGBY SCORE FOR EXETER VERSUS BATH IN OCTOBER OF THIS ACADEMIC

THEATRE COMPANY PUTTING ON AS THEIR 48 HOUR MUSCIAL?

WHICH EXETER BA OFFERS A MODULE ON DONKEYS?

All you need to do is scan the QR code here in order to purchase your society membership from the Student’s Guild. After that you can join our Exeposé Members 25/26 facebook group in which you’ll find content calls from section editors on pretty much any topic you can imagine! We’ll have a link to this page on our instagram! If you see a content call that takes your fancy, simply comment under the facebook post, write your article and send it to the editor. Whilst they may send you some feedback or ask you to make a couple of changes, no articles will ever be rejected and we encourage writers to get involved regardless of previous experience. If financial hardship prevents you from gettng involved, the Guild offers a Society Hardship Fund, aimed at any student awarded the University Hardship and Retention Fund or who is unable to take part in societies due to financial barriers. We can’t wait to see all the amazing writing you guys get up to!

EDITORS: Audrey Yuen and Suhaib Shaukat

Iran’s response to US peace proposal

Ella Clark, Online Climate Editor, discusses the latest situation in Iran

AT the beginning of last week, Iran responded to the latest peace proposal from the US, a response which considered “totally unacceptable” by President Trump. Iran’s proposal included the lifting of US sanctions and diluting the naval restrictions and pressure in the Strait of Hormuz, the second of which should be in Trumps interest. The peace proposal was in fact focused on reopening the strait, however there was also a more than significant emphasis around the future of Iran’s nuclear programme. For Iran, fighting must end before any discussion around the nuclear programme can take place. Discussion around the Strait is particularly intriguing, as at the beginning of May, Trump was forced to shelve ‘Project Freedom”. The project was an attempt to get commercial shipping to pass through the Strait of Hormuz. However, Saudi Arabia did not allow the use of its bases and airspace as part of their attempt to see an end to the war with Iran.

FOR IRAN, FIGHTING MUST END BEFORE ANY DISCUSSION AROUND THE NUCLEAR PROGRAMME CAN TAKE PLACE

The presence of US military escort in the strait has been specifically outlined by Iran as a ceasefire breach – which puts Gulf nations in an even more perilous

position. Previously Gulf countries such as Saudi Arabia and the UAE have been subjected to attack, after being viewed by Iran as lending support to the US and Israeli war effort. Infrastructure and civilian facilities in these states had been significantly damaged, leading to military action which renders the Gulf states furious. Whilst the failure of ‘Project Freedom’ suggests the primary focus of the Gulf states is self-preservation, the lack of aid from Saudi Arabi suggests a lack of confidence in Trumps actions during this conflict.

However, Trump’s rejection of Iran’s response is not ‘totally’ an exaggeration, as Benjamin Netanyahu believes that as long as Iran has a stockpile of HEU (Highly Enriched Uranium), the war will go on. However, he also states that without some level of agreement between US and Iran, it would be impossible to remove the HEU. Trump’s reactions place further pressure on the tensions with Iran, with the country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson, Esmaeil Baghaei, describing it as freezing an progress on concluding the war. It is hard to determine the next steps of this conflict, with Trump’s attitude solidifying a standstill, and a towering list of disagreements, it’ll be many more weeks before a clear end can be seen.

Australia’s right-wing party scores historic parliamentary win

Dan Pratt, explores the future for Australian politics

AUSTRALIA’S One Nation party has secured over 57 percent of the 150 seats in Farrer, New South Wales, marking its first lower-house parliamentary seat.

AN USTRALIA’S ONE NATION PARTY HAS SECURED OVER 57 PERCENT OF THE 150 SEATS IN FARRER

While this doesn’t affect the Labour Government’s majority, it signals voters moving away from traditional parties. With party leader Pauline Hanson confident and now “coming for the other seats”, there is a question now weighing on Australian correspondents’ minds. Election-wise, this could signal the weakening of the Liberal-National Coalition, with a 31-point collapse of the Liberal primary vote in a region dominated by the coalition for 77 years. This is an opportunity for One Nation, leveraging this win to contest other rural electorates. Therefore, the Coalition can no longer rely on regional heartlands and must recapture voters or risk a split in the conservative voting base. The governing Labour party is now forced to reevaluate its political opponents when

IF THE ONE NATION PARTY GAINS A MAJORITY THE FOCUS WOULD BE ON ECONOMIC RELIEF

considering long-term parliamentary dynamics. Furthermore, this potentially affects Australia internationally. If the One Nation party gains a majority, the focus would be on economic relief. The politician involved in the Farrer election, David Farley, states they would reduce the cost of living by halving the fuel tax, lowering energy prices and introducing family tax cuts. Farley’s goal of “policy that fits Australia, not the world” could affect Australia’s position on international issues. With domestic priorities first, this could slow down multi-lateral trade agreements, cause resistance towards international climate treaties that threaten regional manufacturing, and enforce immigration control, as the focus on local infrastructure capacity could impact immigration quotas. This could start a historic change in Australia’s political landscape. A historic win that demonstrates the call for change, which affects the power balance between Australia’s political parties in the coming years.

A new era for Hungary?

Audrey Yuen,

International Editor, analyses the rise of Péter Magyar and the Tisza party

IWILL not rule over Hungary – I will serve my country”, said Péter Magyar in his oath of office in the Hungarian parliament. Overtaking 16 years of illiberal rule under Viktor Orbán and the Fidesz party, the new Prime Minister Péter Magyar promised “a change of system” as well as a change in government on May 9th. Yet, this promise of rebuilding is truly an ambitious one. The current economic situation in Hungary is undoubtedly grim. With eight consecutive months of spending spree from the outgoing government, where state contracts and funds were directed to businesses associated with the Fidesz party, Hungary’s budget deficit is reaching dangerously close to the planned target for its entire year. Magyar must prioritise holding those from the outgoing government, who are guilty of financial crimes, accountable and promise to conduct investigations (in line with the rule of law) to recover the nation’s stolen assets. With the Fidesz party now out of office, evidence viable for investigations are now steadily increasing as new revelations and allegations of corruption appear daily. Police and the tax office are also less reluctant to cooperate as the Fidesz party falls upon doom. One target of investigation is the media empire of Gyula Balásy that received millions of fundings from the outgoing government, and was a supporter of Orbán’s hostile campaign to migrants and to Magyar himself, which were portrayed as the ‘enemies’. Albeit Balásy denied in any wrongdoings, his his-

tory as a supporter of the previous government certainly does not make him seem any less guilty.

Repairing Hungary’s relationship with the EU is also one of Magyar’s priorities. The EU has been blocking funds that amount to €17bn, nearly 10 percent of Hungary’s GDP, due to Orbán’s violations of the rule of law. It is, therefore, an urgent need for Magyar to undo Orbán’s wrongdoings by prosecuting previous crimes involving EU funds and reinforcing judicial independence that has previously been restricted, in order for Hungary to receive the aid (in particular, from the union’s post-Covid recovery plan) to lessen the economic damage and rebuild the economy. The issue of immigration is certainly not one to be ignored as well. Orbán’s bitter opposition to EU’s migration pact has left the country in debt to the EU, with Hungary being fined €1m daily for refusal to comply with the European Court of Justice (CJEU) over the treatment towards migrants. However, being overly supportive of immigration is not a stance Magyar would want to take. As it has become clear that Tisza party supporters, like the Fidesz supporters, are expressing concern about the irregular immigration of the country.

EU subsidies helping the UAE royal family

Suhaib Shaukat, International Editor, investigates how the subsidies to EU farmers are benefitting the Al Nahyan family

ARECENT investigation by The Guardian and DeSmog has reignited debate over the fairness of the European Union’s agricultural subsidy system after revealing that companies linked to the United Arab Emirates’ ruling Al Nahyan family received more than €71 million in EU farming subsidies between 2019 and 2024. The payments were distributed through the EU’s Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), a programme designed to support farmers and rural communities across Europe. However, the investigation found that subsidiaries connected to the Emirati royal family benefited from large-scale payments tied to farmland holdings in Romania, Spain and Italy.

At the centre of the controversy is Agricost, a Romanian farming company operating what is reportedly the largest farm in the EU, spanning around 57,000 hectares. Agricost alone received €10.5 million in subsidies in 2024, far exceeding the amount typically granted to smaller European farms. The company was acquired in 2018 by Al Dahra, an agribusiness group associated with the Al Nahyan family and partly owned by Abu Dhabi’s sovereign wealth fund, ADQ.

Critics argue that the revelations expose structural flaws within the CAP system, which allocates funds largely according to land ownership rather than financial need. Because larger landowners receive larger payments, campaigners say the policy disproportionately benefits wealthy corporations and foreign investors instead of supporting struggling local farmers.

THE REVELATIONS EXPOSE STRUCTURAL FLAWS WITHIN THE CAP SYSTEM, WHICH ALLOCATES FUNDS

Environmental and political groups have also questioned whether EU taxpayers should subsidise companies linked to one of the world’s wealthiest ruling families. The Al Nahyan dynasty, which governs the UAE, has an estimated wealth exceeding $320 billion, primarily derived from oil revenues. Advocacy organisations claim the case demonstrates how public funding can indirectly strengthen authoritarian regimes through opaque corporate ownership structures. The European Commission has responded by proposing reforms to the CAP for the 2028–2034 funding period, including a potential cap of €100,000 per farm in direct annual payments. EU officials argue that such measures would redirect support towards smaller farms and improve fairness within the system. The controversy arrives at a time when European farmers across several countries are already protesting rising costs, market pressures and unequal competition. transparency, accountability and who truly benefits from Europe’s largest subsidy programme.

Image: Wikimedia Commons

Trump’s Trip to China: Power Politics in Play

Houman Hosseini discusses Trump’s recent trip to China

THE meeting was not just about two leaders; it was about whether the world’s two largest economies can prevent rivalry from turning into global instability. Behind the scenes, however, there is a deeper struggle between two economic and political systems. In the United States, market power and private capital heavily shape political decision-making. In China, by contrast, the state retains far greater authority over the direction of the market. For many years, the petrodollar has helped maintain US influence over the global economy. Yet since 2017, the debate around the “petroyuan” has grown, especially after China surpassed the United States as the world’s largest crude oil importer. The US Energy Information Administration later noted that China imported a record 11.3 million barrels per day in 2023. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022 made dedollarisation a much more serious political issue. It did not end the petrodollar, but it encouraged countries such as Russia, China, Iran, and some BRICS members to expand non-dollar trade.

Saudi Arabia and China have also discussed deeper energy cooperation, including the possibility of using the yuan in some oil transactions. In recent years, social media has often claimed that the petrodollar is “ending” because Saudi Arabia supposedly ended a secret 50-year agreement with the United States. This is misleading. The petrodollar system was never based only on one expiring contract. It was part of a wider political-economic structure built around US-Gulf relations, dollar-based oil trade, and American security guarantees.

THE PETRODOLLAR SYSTEM WAS NEVER BASED ONLY ON ONE EXPIRING CONTRACT

Before 2026, few would have imagined that China might seriously consider buying more oil from US suppliers. However, with the out -

break of war between Iran and the United States, and the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, Beijing has been forced to reconsider its energy security calculations. After long hesitation, China is now reportedly considering purchasing more oil from the United States. This became clearer after Donald Trump’s recent remarks. Oil prices climbed after Trump claimed that China had agreed to purchase more crude oil from the United States following his talks with President Xi Jinping. This is not a sign that Washington and Beijing have suddenly become friends. It is a reminder that oil can force even bitter rivals back to the table.

In this sense, China did not come to the talks with complete freedom since the pressure on Iranian oil and the disruption around the Strait of Hormuz left Beijing with fewer choices. Buying more American oil may look like cooperation, but it also shows how quickly energy dependence can limit political strategy.

China was not necessarily convinced by Washington; it was pushed by circumstance, and that

MULTILINGUAL ARTICLE

South African Cuisine

Kayleigh Swart discusses some of the best food South Africa has to offer

SOUTH Africa is home to so many different cultures and groups of people, which means it is home to some incredible food. While there is so much to pick from, and really something for everyone, I have made a list of some of my favourites.

SOUTH AFRICA IS HOME TO SO MANY DIFFERENT CULTURES... WHICH MEANS IT IS HOME TO SOME

One such dish that is always popular is a Durban food called Bunny Chow. Bunny Chow consists of a hollowed-out loaf of bread which is filled with curry. Durban is home to a large community of people from Indian origin, who originally came to the country as migrant workers. This dish was fast and cheap for people to eat on their breaks. Now it is a fun way to enjoy and eat curry, often served as street food. Bunny Chow is not the only popular curry in South Africa. Another one is called Cape Malay curry. As the name would suggest, this curry comes from Malaysian and Indonesian influences. This curry is milder and sweeter than the curries made by Indian-South Africans. Another dish believed to be from Malaysian and Indonesian influences is Bobotie, which is a dish of spiced minced meat baked with an egg-based topping.

A BRAAI IS THE SOUTH AFRICAN EQUIVALENT OF A BBQ (EXCEPT WE DON’T BURN THE SAUSAGES), WHICH IS AS MUCH OF A SOCIAL EVENT

Of course, you can’t talk about South African food without mentioning a braai. A braai is

the South African equivalent of a BBQ (except we don’t burn the sausages), which is as much of a social event as it is about the food. Whatever you cook on a braai is up to personal preference, but a popular dish is boerewors which is a spiced coiled sausage.

Of course, no food recommenda-

makes the visit important because it exposed the weakness behind China’s energy confidence. Seen alongside earlier US efforts to secure alternative oil supplies, including renewed interest in Venezuelan crude, the broader energy strategy becomes clearer.In this sense, Trump’s visit to China was not merely a diplomatic event; it showed that oil is still one of the fastest ways to turn diplomacy into hard strategy.

Suid-Afrikaanse Geregte

Kayleigh Swart bespreek ’n paar van die beste geregte wat Suid-Afrika aanbied

Suid-Afrika is die tuiste van soveel verskillende kulture en groepe mense, wat beteken dit is ook die tuiste van ongelooflike kos. Al is daar soveel om van te kies, en regtig iets vir almal, het ek ’n lys gemaak van ’n paar van my gunstelinge.

esialiteit genaamd Bunny Chow.

Bunny Chow

’n Braai is die SuidAfrikaanse gelykwaardige van ’n BBQ (behalwe dat ons nie die wors verbrand nie), en dit is soveel ’n sosiale geleentheid as wat dit oor die kos is.

bestaan uit ’n

de broodjie

with a custard like fill ing and served with cinnamon. If you prefer something hot, malva pudding is a cakey dish (similar texture to a sticky toffee) that is normally served with custard or ice-cream.

While this is just a small snapshot into some of the things South African cuisine has to offer, there is a whole amazing world of food out there to explore.

vul is. Durban is die tuiste van ’n groot gemeenskap van mense van Indiese afkoms, wat oorspronklik as migrasiewerkers na die land gekom het. Hierdie gereg was vinnig en goedkoop vir mense om tussen hulle pouse te eet. Vandag is dit ’n lekker en unieke manier om kerrie te geniet, en word dikwels as straatkos verkoop. Bunny Chow is nie die enigste gewilde kerriegereg in Suid-Afrika nie. Nog een is Kaapse Malay-kerrie. Soos die naam aandui, kom hierdie kerrie van Maleisiese en Indonesiese invloede. Hierdie kerrie is sagter en soeter as die kerries wat deur Indiërs van SuidAfrika gemaak word. ’n Ander gereg wat uit Maleisiese en Indonesiese invloede ontstaan, is Bobotie, ’n gereg van gekruide maalvleis wat met ’n eierlaag bo-op gebak word. Natuurlik kan ’n mens nie oor SuidAfrikaanse kos praat sonder om ’n braai te noem nie. ’n Braai is die Suid-Afrikaanse gelykwaardige van ’n BBQ (behalwe dat ons nie die wors verbrand nie), en dit is soveel ’n sosiale geleentheid as wat dit oor die kos is. Wat jy op die braai sit is persoonlike voorkeur, maar ’n gewilde gereg is boerewors, ’n gekruide ring wors.

Geen kosaanbevelings is volledig sonder nagereg nie. My persoonlike gunsteling is melktert, wat ’n gebak kors het met ’n vla vulsel gevul is en met kaneel bedien word. As jy iets warm verkies, is malvapoeding ’n spons nagereg (met ’n tekstuur soortgelyk aan sticky toffee pudding) wat gewoonlik met vla of roomys bedien word. Hoewel dit net ’n klein kykie is in wat Suid-Afrikaanse kookkuns te bied het, is daar ’n hele wonderlike wêreld van kos daar buite om te ontdek.

Image:PICRYL

Image: Cherry Yeung

Sci-Tech

Hantavirus Causes Panic in a Post-Covid World

Isabelle

Pearce, Comment Editor, reflects on public concern surrounding the cruise

ARARE disease has surfaced in the news after an outbreak aboard the Dutch cruise ship MV Hondius. It has led to several passengers becoming infected with three reported deaths. To many, the term hantavirus is unfamiliar yet its sudden prominence has sparked widespread concern. So, what is hantavirus and is the public being alarmed unnecessarily?

Hantaviruses are a family of viruses rather than one single disease. It is primarily carried by mice, rats and voles. It is then transmitted to humans through contact with infected urine, saliva or droppings. This can cause severe respiratory illness in humans such as Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS) which has a fatality rate of about 30-40 percent. The strain linked to the MV Hondius appears to be the Andes Virus – a variant known to circulate in parts of Argentina where the cruise began. Public health officials believe that an individual contracted the virus from a wild rodent before boarding. Once on board the cruise ship, which is a close contact environment, person-to-person transmission could have occurred.

With hantavirus, symptoms gradually worsen over time. Early symptoms resemble the common

flu: fever, fatigue, muscle pain, headaches and sometimes nausea. After this initial phase, in severe cases such as HPS, patients might progress rapidly to shortness of breath and fluid build-up in the lungs causing severe respiratory distress. Unfortunately, there is no specific cure, vaccine or antiviral treatment for hantavirus.

Due to this, doctors aim to detect the illness early which can significantly increase survival rates through early supportive care.

Despite this outbreak, health authorities stress that while hantavirus can be severe it remains rare – a geographically limited infection with no evidence of wider spread or any elevated risk to the

UK public. British individuals that were on board MV Hondius were monitored and quarantined in hospital before being discharged to home isolation. In the age of COVID-19, it is natural for a virus story to cause worry and panic. The situation is creating a sense of déjà vu and fear. People on social media and in Reddit forums are discussing their anxieties over having to social distance and test and trace again. Comedian Jon Stewart mocked the media coverage of hantavirus on an episode of The Daily Show suggesting it has been covered with a sensationalism disproportionate to the actual risk. However, the comparison with COVID-19 is understandable; both involve respiratory distress in severe cases, but the transmission dynamics are pro-

foundly different. Hantavirus does not spread efficiently through casual contact, public transport or shared indoor spaces in the way coronavirus does.

The World Health Organisation have stressed that the risk to the broader public remains low. There is currently no sign of ongoing transmission beyond those directly exposed on the ship.

Public health experts also point out that hantavirus is not new. It dates back to the Korean War in the early 1950’s, when thousands of troops fell ill with haemorrhagic fever. Since then, there have been sporadic outbreaks across Asia, Europe and the Americas, almost always linked to environmental contact rather than human transmission. Hantavirus, while concerning and sometimes deadly, is a known disease with well-understood transmission routes. The current outbreak aboard the MV Hondius has drawn attention due to the number of deaths and its rarity. But, as health experts assure us, widespread panic is unwarranted. It is certainly not an emerging global threat and there is no evidence of a wider risk to the UK public. In a media environment, still shaped by the memory of COVID-19, we need to ensure that outbreaks are understood in proportion.

How much protein is too much protein?

Emily Saunders, discusses the ubiquity of protein in supermarket products and social media

PPROTEIN HAS TRANSFORMED FROM A MACRONUTRIENT INTO A CULTURAL CRAZE

ROTEIN bars, protein powder…. protein cereal? Protein has transformed from a macronutrient into a cultural craze. Even nongym-goers have likely noticed labels popping up everywhere, from the Starbucks menu to celebritybranded products, like Khloe Kardashian’s protein popcorn and Zac Efron’s pancake mix. The surge reflects a broader rise in fitness culture and fixation with self-improvement, particularly among students. Since the pandemic, fitness participation has risen, with many young people choosing a workout over a night-out, and with it has come a growing emphasis on tracking nutrition. However, on social media, protein has become misleadingly equated with health, pushing the trend beyond powders and shakes into everyday foods. Much of the expansion has been fuelled by the growing availability of whey, which is added to products like crisps, coffee and even ice-cream to turn them into “protein” foods. As it becomes more about wellness trends and less about nutrition, it’s worth asking: how much protein do we actually need? Protein is an essential macronutrient that supports a range of bodily functions, including tissue growth and repair, hormone produc-

tion and immunity. Out of the 20 possible amino acids, nine have to be obtained from food as the body cannot make them. When digested, it breaks down into amino acids, used as building blocks for tissue and enzymes that drive metabolism and energy production. For those who exercise regularly, it’s vital for muscle recovery and growth, particularly after resistance training. The British Nutrition Foundation recommends around 0.75g of protein per kilogram of bodyweight daily - roughly 56g for men and 45g for women – the

IT BECOMES MORE ABOUT WELLNESS TRENDS AND LESS ABOUT NUTRITION

amount found in a large chicken breast, or eight eggs.

People who train regularly require even more, with those aiming to build muscle requiring 1.4-2.0g protein per kilogram of bodyweight. Endurance athletes can also benefit from higher intake to support recovery, particularly in periods of calorie deficit or heavy training blocks. However, most adults in the UK already exceed the baseline recommendations through a regular diet, and beyond a certain point, extra protein doesn’t equal extra muscle, unless appropriate strength training is completed. There is a limit to how much protein can stimulate muscle-building through a single meal, and calories from excess protein can lead to fat gain over time. Nevertheless, as

nutritionist Dr Federica Amati notes, the protein craze has twisted heath into a marketing opportunity, with the availability of high-protein products quadrupling since 2015. A product can be legally marketed as a “source of protein” when just 12 percent of its energy comes from protein, and as “high-protein” at 20 percent. With such low boundaries, foods made up mostly of carbs or fats can be falsely positioned as protein fixes. Peanut butter, for example, is promoted as a protein source, yet a tablespoon contains less than 4g. To reach a typical 15g serving, you’d need nearly 4 tablespoons, adding up to 400+ calories, mostly from fat.

The protein hype enables brands to sell an illusion of health. Products marketed as “high-protein” often contain only small amounts of added protein, and contain less nutritional value than the label implies. Many products use the label to hide unnecessary sugar, additives and calories. Müller’s High Pro-

tein yoghurts, for instance, contain as much sugar as protein. Even desserts are now even being framed as fitness foods, such as Lenny and Larry’s Protein Cookie, despite packing over 400 calories and 24g sugar - more than Greggs Milk Chocolate Cookie. These products also use protein as a “health halo” to ramp up prices by up to 20 percent compared to standard alternatives. This doesn’t mean that protein bars can’t be an occasional snack, but is useful to check the label for low sugar, high fibre and a minimal ingredients list to maximise nutritional benefits. Most people can meet their protein needs through meals, and Dr. Amati suggests prioritising whole foods that are naturally protein-rich, such as dairy, eggs and meat. Animal proteins contain all of the essential amino acids, and while some plant proteins are incomplete, plant-based eaters can obtain what’s need-

THE PROTEIN HYPE ENABLES BRANDS TO SELL AN ILLUSION OF HEALTH

ed from many foods including soy, quinoa and seeds. Ultimately, no single nutrient or habit determines overall health, and protein is best consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. While protein is vital for health, the current obsession says more about relentless self-improvement culture than nutrition itself.

Image: Wickimedia Commons

Image: Healthy Nest Nutrition

Instagram updates privacy laws

Beth Casey, Editor-in-Chief, examines the recent changes to messaging privacy

META have recently announced that they will be discontinuing the end - t o - e nd encryption (E2EE) on their messaging services and will only provide standard encryption. Messages will no longer be visible to only sender and receiver, but also give Instagram access to texts, images and videos shared in private chats. This change will enable authority intervention into extreme content that is shared via harmful messaging and will be particularly key in the protection of children on social media.

The National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC) and other child protection services are welcoming the decision. Rani Govendor, from the NSPCC, states that they “are really pleased” and the E2EE often allows “perpetrators to evade detection, enabling the grooming and abuse of children to go unseen.”

Maya Thomas from Big Brother, is also concerned about child protection, but feels that E2EE represented “one of the key ways children can keep their data

CONCERNED THAT META MAY BE CAVING TO GOVERNMENT PRESSURE

safe online, so we’re concerned that Meta may be caving to government pressure.”

While these settings have been something that Meta have long faced criticism for not changing, the company has received backlash for the lack of transparency in which they went about changing these laws. Instead of formally announcing their plans, they instead silently updated the terms and conditions of the app in March: “End - to - end encrypted messaging on Instagram will no longer be supported after 8 May 2026.”

Some consider this change to represent the wider shift in how tech compa -

nies and social media platforms deal with data and privacy. Victoria Baines, professor of IT at Gresham College, has stated “Social media platforms monetise our communications — our posts, likes and messages — so they can serve targeted advertising.”

Meta told the BBC that opting into use the feature was not often chosen by users, therefore they took this decision. Baines believes that “increasingly, companies like Meta are focusing on training AI models, for which messaging data can be extremely valuable” and that “the decision is more complex” than Meta’s claim.

COMPANIES INCREASINGLY FOCUSED ON TRAINING AI MODELS, FOR WHICH MESSAGING DATA CAN BE EXTREMELY VALUABLE

For other social media platforms, E2EE has been the default such as WhatsApp, Signal, Facebook Messenger, Google Messages and Apple’s iMessage. Snapchat uses the system for photos and videos and has plans to extend it onto text. It has been deemed likely that E2EE will only remain available on apps

Summer eating

Adesigned specifically for messaging, since TikTok told the BBC in March it had “no plans to introduce the technology” for direct messages.

E2EE WILL ONLY REMAIN AVAILABLE ON APPS DESIGNED SPECIFICALLY FOR MESSAGING

Sam Hanlon shares the benefits of switching up your diet this summer

S the summer months creep closer, the days get longer, and the temperatures rise, many people make changes to their diet in order to adapt to summer weather. The oven starts seeing less use, salad bowls come back into fashion, and the fruit basket is suddenly full to burst. Let’s look at three different summer habits concerning food, and what science can tell us about them!

The Mediterranean diet, based on the cuisines of coastal Greece, Spain, Turkey and Italy, is widely considered an ideal diet for the summer months. Consisting of whole foods, lean sources of protein, and extra virgin olive oil for healthy fats, the diet pushes you to avoid processed food.

THE MEDITERRANEAN DIET IS WIDELY CONSIDERED AS AN IDEAL DIET FOR THE SUMMER

In terms of recipes, it ranges from baked courgette dishes to sardine pasta, along with the inclusion of dairy in the forms of feta or mozzarella, for example. The flexibility of the diet means that you can use different foods, and particularly choose those ingredients that are in season – a plate of ripe heritage tomatoes, a mozzarella ball and some leaves of basil, drizzled with olive oil, makes an amazing starter for

dinner, and can even be tweaked to form the main dish! The lightness of the food makes it ideal for summer, whilst numerous health benefits have been reported, namely a reduction in the risk of dementia and a general lowering in cholesterol. The PREDIMED trial found that following a Mediterranean diet reduced major cardiovascular events by 30 percent compared to a low-fat control diet.

Consuming more fruits and vegetables during the summer months is also a great idea, as a variety come into season throughout, and can easily be incorporated into meals, or enjoyed as snacks. Local produce from the Unit ed Kingdom such as ber ries, cherries, tomatoes, beans and courgettes all come into season, allowing you to enjoy fresh food with a minimal carbon footprint. The benefits of including more fruit and veg in your diet are multiple, from the positive effect fibre has on digestion,to the range of vitamins you get. Rotating seasonal plants introduces different fibres that feed dif -

ferent beneficial bacterial strains, producing anti-inflammatory compounds and adding to your gut microbiome. Locally grown products are typically more nutrient dense than those grown abroad, as less vitamins are lost in transit over long distances. By integrating more fruits and vegetables in your diet you’re not only enjoying the best pickings of the season, but consuming a range of vitamins, minerals and phytochemicals essential for your immune system. As the weather gets hotter, you may want to opt for cold and nocook meals, which may take less time to prepare, and have a fresher taste than a heavy stew or fry-up. This is achievable through the preparation of salads and cold soups. Folate and vitamin C can be degraded through

LOCAL GROWN PRODUCTS ARE TYPICALLY MORE NUTRIENT DENSE

AS THE WEATHER GETS HOTTER YOU MAY WANT TO OPT FOR COLD AND NO COOK MEALS

cooking, so sticking to eating raw leafy greens is ideal for the consumption of such nutrients, essential for synthesis of DNA, protection against cellular damage, and promotion of cardiovascular and cognitive health. Cold meals also make it easier to assemble a dish, with various sides and leftovers, a personal favourite being a cold feta couscous with a leafy salad, tomatoes, mozzarella, and occasionally sardines or grilled chicken. Sharing meals becomes easier, and you are equally able to consume more minerals and satiating hydrating foods (such as watermelon and cucumber)! Make sure you enjoy whatever you’re eating this summer! With the end of the academic year nearing, it’s a great time to get invested in the culinary world and try out new habits for the warm weeks ahead.

Image: Syllaby

Image: Wikimedia Commons

Image: PickPik

Image: Pexels

Emily

TThe Great West Run 2026

S. Rizzo,

HERE comes a time in your twenties when you will inevitably get into running. Everyone will try it once, and for some, it will spark the endurance craze. After getting into longer runs, clubs, and Strava leaderboards, the next step is always to sign up to a half marathon—and if you’re in Exeter, this will probably be the Great West Run.

THERE

COMES A TIME IN YOUR TWENTIES WHEN YOU WILL INEVITABLY GET INTO RUNNING

Taking place at the end of May, up to four thousand runners take to the streets of Exeter for this event, and this year yours truly will be too. Since signing up at Christmas, my challenge has been raising money for FORCE, the Cancer Charity for Devon and Exeter, and completing the rehab for my injured hip. While I can say this has pretty much been achieved (if anyone wants to contribute the last ten pounds, be my guest!), a plethora of other unexpected obstacles have tested me. Keeping up with regular training alongside the insane academic pressure of final year has not been easy at all, but having something

Editor-in-Chief,

tells us all ahead of her upcoming half marathon

to get me into the fresh air and moving my body was probably best for both my physical and mental health. And with my free trial of Runna, and a make-shift weekly plan, I set out my training schedule to build the distance and intensity of my runs. Did I follow it? No!

A week ahead of the race day, I can safely say I have not run further than 8k in preparation, and I will be trusting a greater power to get me through the 21k on the day. And that greater power might just be the friends running the half with me. And the crowd support. And the snacks I’ll be picking up along the way.

Surprisingly, I’m not as worried about it as I probably should be, but if nothing else, I will have raised money for charity, and run the furthest I ever have with my friends beside me. I know the atmosphere will be electric, and hopefully the weather will be good too—if you’re thinking of lining the roads for support, I can’t encourage it enough!

And though I unlocked the secret bonus card of recent heart-break to fuel my mindless pavementpounding (oh joy!), I’m told this isn’t essential in the run-up to a half marathon. Whether you’re a new runner, a long-time endurance athlete, or just there for support, the Great West Run promises to

All Things Intramural

Nbe a big day out for all involved, so block out May 24th in your calendar and we’ll see you all there!

THE GREAT WEST RUN PROMISES TO BE A BIG DAY OUT FOR ALL INVOLVED

Daniel Pratt explains why you should get involved in intramural culture

OW, when approaching this topic, I thought to myself a vital question: What the heck does intramural even mean? Don’t worry, the answer is very simple, derived from the Latin intra muros, meaning “within walls” Intramural sports are activities done for recreation and hosted indoors by an institution like a university.

Though leagues and competitions do exist, like the university’s intramural cricket indoor league, these competitions are purely for fun. With Intramural Mondays for cricket taking off this term, it's a great opportunity to remind ourselves why we enjoy non-competitive sports in the first place.

WE NEED OPPORTUNITIES TO DESTRESS AND HAVE FUN

First and foremost, it's low-stakes. At university, there is constant pressure as all of our time is building towards the climax of our academic year, our exams. If we are strung too tight, we are bound to snap, so we need opportunities to destress and have fun, so we are not burnt out when it matters. Therefore, something fun like weekly football, that doesn’t have a high skill ceiling, is perfect for a mental break from our study lives.

Secondly, the benefits are right there in the title: intramural. As these events are hosted “within the walls” of the university, it is convenient for students who are already fatigued, as these events often take place on campus. No need to travel to the other side of town!

Furthermore, these benefits lead to another great point: what you have in common with the other players. It can be intimidating when trying to join a club with people older than you or with far more experience.

Yet for an intramural match, the people attending are often there for the same reasons you are: to de-stress and have fun in a non-competitive sport. Meaning these events are often perfect for meet-

ing new people and making friends. Lastly, it's good for you! Studies show that doing regular exercise has numerous health benefits, like lowering blood pressure, improving sleep, maintaining a healthy weight and of course improving your mental health by boosting your mood and lowering anxiety levels.

Intramural sports may not lead to trophies or championships, but their value comes from providing accessible, low-pressure opportunities for recreation, connection, and wellness. By joining these activities, you improve your health, make friends, and participate in a welcoming campus tradition—all reasons intramural sports are truly worthwhile and why intramural culture is a wonderful thing to be part of.

INTRAMURAL SPORTS' VALUE... COMES FROM PROVIDING... CONNECTION AND WELLNESS

Image: Charlotte Isbell

Image: Charlotte Isbell

Image: Lizzie X

Image: Natassa W-S

Bruno Fernandes named 2026 Footballer of the Year

Wilf Smith discusses whether Fernandes win at FWA was deserved

PORTUGUESE international and Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes was recently awarded the FWA Footballer of the year award. While an impressive achievement in its own right, the prestige remains rather inconspicuous and largely overshadowed by the larger Individual Awards still to come: the Premier League Player of the Season, and the PFA Player’s Player of the Year.

Poppy

NOW that exams are done and deadlines are handed in, it seems that students may be feeling lost or unmotivated with all their newfound spare time. Longing for something to do, staring out the window at fields to frolic in, or a park to play in, term three is a stretch of transcendental time, long weeks that seem to disappear rather too quickly, and encouraging a constant state of nostalgia.

When the sun is (finally) out, you could scratch the itch of wanting to play impishly, and do ‘Pitch Up and Play’ - a service offered by the University Sports department, where you can book to join in on a range of fun and free activities.

Throughout the weeks, they offer yoga, Zumba and Muay Thai in the Lemon Grove, where

However, as this FWA encompasses the opinion of over 400 professional football journalists, it certainly gives us an insight into who is favoured to make a clean sweep of all three this year – Bruno Fernandes. While the Liverpool fan in me would love to protest, there is no denying that Fernandes has had an incredible season. In a Premier League year where so many big names have produced insignificant attacking returns, eight goals so far for Fernandes is very respectable. Yet more importantly, Fernandes has registered a whopping 20 assists! Sitting eight in front of second place Cherki, Fernandes is currently tied at the top of the all-time list alongside Thierry Henry and Kevin De Bruyne.

FERNANDES IS CURRENTLY TIED AT THE TOP OF THE ALLTIME LIST

Just one more in the last game would give him the most assists in a league season ever! Ex-

traordinarily, this remarkable feat comes in the same season where under Ruben Amorim’s three-four-three system, Fernandes played in a central defensive pivot until January. Such a decision to play arguably the world’s best number 10 defensively and out of position remains as absurd now as it was then, yet huge credit must be given to Fernandes for his adaptability.

HUGE CREDIT MUST BE GIVEN TO FERNANDES FOR HIS

ADAPTABILITY

Potentially, if Fernandes fails to break the assist record, one could envisage a world where Arsenal’s defensive prowess, or the stellar goalscoring campaigns of Igor Thiago or Antonine Semenyo, are rewarded. However, in my opinion Bruno Fernandes has every right to remain a firm favourite, as the FWA award testifies.

Pitch Up and Play

you can spend an hour exercising with your friends and getting out your room. Zumba

and Play' Opportunities

has many benefits, including building endurance, improving cardiovascular fitness, and the social nature. Furthermore, Muay Thai is great for strengthening your body, and perhaps even more importantly, enhancing mental focus, which is incredibly beneficial for the end of a term full of high academic pressure and stress! Also offered is an opportunity to play benchball, tennis, squash, or even fencing – Pitch Up and Play is a great chance to grab your friends and try out new or old sports, and especially to meet other people to relax with! The swimming pool near Cornwall House is also heated for those colder May days, and offers both lane swimming and more casual paddling sessions with your friends. Pitch Up and Play is incredibly relaxed and non-committal, meaning on bored summer afternoons, perhaps when it is too early for a pint in the sun (and too late to still be in bed), you can get involved.

Villa beat Forest to reach the Europa League Final

Alex Horton reports on the historic victory of Aston Villa seeing them to the European Final

Aston Villa have made it to a European final for the first time in 44 years, the last time being when they bested Bayern Munich to win the European Cup in 1982. But how did they get here? It’s been a wild ride for the Villans since Unai Emery took charge. They have climbed the ranks of the premier league and it feels like it is now safe to say they have established themselves as one of the top teams currently in English football. Their exploits in Europe have been nothing short of incredible, with a stint in all three of the European competitions as of late. Villa’s most recent journey in the Europa League has been their most impressive so far, so let’s examine how they’ve managed to get to Wednesday’s final in Istanbul.

THEIR EXPLOITS IN EUROPE HAVE BEEN NOTHING SHORT OF INCREDIBLE

Villa finished 2nd in the league phase after defeating the likes of Bologna, Feyenoord, Maccabi Tel Aviv, Young Boys, FC Basel, Fenerbahςe and RB Salzburg, facing just one surprise defeat to Go Ahead Eagles. Moving on from the league phase, Villa discovered their route to the final was going to be anything but easy. In the round of 16 Villa face Lille, recording a 3-0 win on aggregate, before breezing past Bologna (meeting again after the league phase) with an aggregate victory of 7-1 ensuring them a place in the semi-finals. It was an all-Midlands match-up for the semifinal with Nottingham Forest representing the East Midlands and Villa leading the charge for the West Midlands. Forest took the lead in the first

leg through a well-taken penalty by Chris Wood, leaving Forest with a 1-0 lead heading into the much anticipated second leg. However, Villa would not be beaten so easily.

The ex-Devonian Ollie Watkins managed to find an equaliser for the claret and blue within the first half of the second leg, setting up an exciting second 45 minutes where the momentum was well and truly with the lions. An Emi Buendia penalty put the Villans back on top, before a superb brace from non-other than captain John McGinn made it 4-1 on aggregate to put the game to bed, ensuring Villa walked away with a ticket to Istanbul.

Villa will head to the final as clear favourites against the German opposition, SC Freiburg. Either way, the game will surely be a great display of European football and a great excuse to head to the pub with some mates. I will try not to be biased, but I am hoping for a Villa victory!

VILLA WILL HEAD TO THE FINAL AS CLEAR FAVOURITES AGAINST THE GERMAN OPPOSITION

Image: Wikimedia Commons

Image: Wikimedia Commons.

Image: University of Exeter.

Fellows, Deputy Editor, talks about the University's 'Pitch Up

Image: Europa, Wikimedia

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Beth Casey and Charlotte Isbell

Spotlight Stalemate: UOE Women’s 1s Held Their Own

Susie Hughes reviews the 1-1 draw against Exeter City

Othe loving friendships and lessons UOEWFC has given them will surely last a lifetime.

During the halftime break, little girls of local clubs took to the pitch to practice penalties, which evidently both grew their confidence and entertained the crowd. These girls, as small as three foot and young as four were a sight to behold in their bright kits and boots, sprinting at the ball and performing celebrations ranging from the traditional cartwheel to the classic worm. There is no doubt that growing up watching games as intense and technical as the one on show in St James’ that evening will give the kids the confidence and role models they need to develop into powerful and practiced women, capable of football on this level and perhaps higher too.

THE TEAM WILL UNDOUBTEDLY MISS CAPTAIN ELLIE MITCHELL AND CLUB CAPTAIN IZZY SMITH

It wouldn’t be a big University sports match without the flash of green/white bows and leotards, meaning the Exeter Emeralds treated us to a half-time performance of dance moves and stunts to their notorious pop song mashup, bringing a burst of Green energy to renew our girls while the City team watched on in their red strip.

Unfortunately, I can’t choose my own player of the match because my housemate was inevitably the brightest star on the grass to me, and it’s almost impossible to take your eyes off the person you’ve come to watch even when they aren’t on the ball (or even the pitch). Hearing Pops sneak down the stairs every week at early hours for training, seeing her logo emblazoned kit air drying on our kitchen furniture, or listening to her post-match rants about the opposition over this past season has shown me how much energy goes into this sport. This Spotlight fixture was a beautiful way to culminate months of hard work for our girls, and while this ever ambitious team would’ve loved a win, the way they handled both the ball and the score with sportsmanship and grace was gratifying enough to all those who came to watch them play. Housemates, parents, friends and coursemates gathered at the stadium with green stripes painted across cheeks, decked out in borrowed UOEWFC stash, waving our witty glittery cardboard signs in hand and chanting semi-threatening encouragements can only hope we provided a show of support strong enough to match the level of performance on display that night.

EXETER EMERALDS TREATED US TO A HALF-TIME PERFORMANCE

THE PACKED STANDS OF ST JAMES’ PARK STA STADIUM WERE BATHED IN GOLD

N Saturday 9th May, the packed stands of St James’ Park Stadium were bathed in gold by the setting sun; friends and fans buzzing with the adrenal mix of a mega female football clash, fueled by five-pound amber beers warming slowly in their plastic cups. The talent on display was undeniable: every other minute sunglasses were raised above shocked eyebrows, uncontrollable screams and jumps of support could be heard and seen rippling through the seats over and over. While we were 1-0 down from about 22 minutes in, an impressive free kick from Poppy

Mortimer was unfortnately a close miss, but it was Charlotte Bigmore scoring an unstoppable goal which equalized in the final quarter. The game was both exciting and emotional, an incredible opportunity for the University’s best to showcase their year of dedication and development, but also it was the final act for approximately a third of our Women’s 1s as they graduate this summer to move onto bigger things. The stadium witnessed heartwarming scenes of a Club tradition after the game had been drawn and the sweat had cooled; the girls stood in a circle with their coach Martin and called each leaving player forward to receive flowers amidst personal praise and echoing rounds of applause. The team will undoubtably miss Captain Ellie Mitchell and Club Captain Izzy Smith, as well as valued players Lilac Jervis, Sammy Kirk, Grace Smith and Beth Ireland, and also exchange students Anika Lomax and Isabella Tascona, but

Images: Susie Hughes