Redbrick 20th February 2015

Redbrick: The University of Birmingham's Official Student Newspaper Since 1936

Who Cares About Happiness?

Zach Bailey argues we should care more for happiness than the economy

Comment / page 8

Amy Williams Interview Amy Thompson asks the Olympic medallist about technology and gadgets

Sci&Tech / page 12

Is It All Going Downhill for McDonald's?

Jennifer Cook questions the popularity of the fast-food franchise

Food / page 18

Review: The Interview

Gym team left without training space in new sports centre Sophie Dober News Editor

@sophiedober

Mandeep Heer Correspondent

The arrival of the new sports centre in 2016, will leave the gymnastics team without a training space.

Without the appropriate equipment, such as vaults, parallel bars and a foam pit, it will be impossible for gymnastic members to practice, potentially leading to the dissolution of the club.

Currently combined with trampolining, the gymnastics club boasts over 200 members; making it the second biggest team at the university after athletics. One third of

these members are solely involved with trampolining, and these students will benefit from a dedicated equipment and training space in the new sport centre.

However, current members of the gymnastics club have been given no alternative training space. Kate Mitchell, Gymnastics captain, told Redbrick: ‘Behind the scenes, hopefully, someone will be looking into it, but at the moment no ideas are concrete.’

Kate believes the reason that a gymnastics space will be omitted from the New Sports Centre is because of the expense. For example, installation of a foam pit would require underground digging. Despite this Kate showed understanding towards the lack of facilities, and that gymnastics is ‘a very specific’ and ‘expensive sport’.

The gymnastics squad compete in four

major competitions a year - one of which is hosted at UoB. However, members of the gymnastics squad feel the University has prioritised training facilities for much smaller clubs such as fencing, table tennis, and martial arts. Kate highlighted that the gymnastics team have excelled in past competitions, including a first-place win two years ago for an all-round female gymnast.

With the high publicity of the new swimming pool, Kate felt that the University ‘get more out of saying we have the only 50m pool in the city, than there being a gymnasium that some people train at.’

The gymnastics team however will be able to use Slater Hall in the Munrow Centre until the end of the next academic year.

Guild Elections: Discover the candidates at www.guildelections.co.uk

Tom Swinford reviews the comedy so controversial it was pulled from cinemas

Film / page 27 www.redbrick.me join@redbrick.me @redbrickpaper /redbrickpaper

Friday 20th February Monday 9th March 2015 Vol. 79, Issue 1458

Spotlight on: Chicago

by Sara Tryon / Travel, page 24

Who You Gonna Call? Better Call Saul

by Matthew McCrory / TV, page 13

02 20th February - 9th March 2015

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News Tweet of the Week

Society Spotlight

Consulting Society The University of Birmingham Consulting Group (BCG) is a student organisation founded by enthusiastic committee members in 2013. They aspire to provide a platform to explore and develop skills required for a career in consulting through programmes including networking events, case study workshops and opportunities to participate in real world consulting cases with partner companies.

@OldJoeClock 'I'm very familiar with peregrine falcons, but it will be great to get to know some new owl friends.'

For more information, visit the Consulting Society's website http://www.birminghamconsulting.org/ To contact the Consulting Society, you can email: consulting@guild.bham.ac.uk

Old Joe is to be decorated with Owls as part of The Big Hoot 2015

Online

Guild Elections begin Keep up with the Guild Elections and find out all about the candidates at our dedicated website. We'll be bringing you updates in conjunction with Burn FM, Guild TV and PhotoSoc. Candidate information is released between Monday 16th and Tuesday 24th February. www.guildelections.co.uk

'Coventry Blaze 1-4 Cardiff Devils' PhotoMattic

Redbrick Editorial Team Editor James Phillips editor@redbrick.me

Comment Editors Daniella Bassett James Lentschner Mason Cusack

Deputy Editors George Bearman Safiyyah Gareebo deputy@redbrick.me

comment@redbrick.me

Digital Editor Julia Yan digital@redbrick.me

Sport Editors Alex Kronenberg Tom Dodd Will Robey sports@redbrick.me

Culture Editors Lead Developer Charlotte Spence Andrew Spencer Lucy Mounfield developer@redbrick.me Andrea Giannini culture@redbrick.me News Editors Sabrina Dougall Film Editors Danyal Hussain Hayley Allanson Isma Azad Jay Crosbie Sophie Dober Tom Lofkin news@redbrick.me film@redbrick.me

Music Editors Hannah Coles Blaise Radley Matt Moody music@redbrick.me

tech@redbrick.me

Life&Style Editors Amy Wakeham Bethany Barley Elizabeth Green lifestyle@redbrick.me

Food Editors Rosie Twells Sarah Dickinson Jo Yorke food@redbrick.me

Travel Editors Tashaa Naidoo Jessica Flanagan Sara Tryon travel@redbrick.me

Photography Editors Cherona Chapman Evie Ford

Television Editors Jaffrina Jahan Shannon Carey tv@redbrick.me

Sci&Tech Editors Emma Houghton Rachel Taylor Amy Thompson

photography@redbrick.me

Senior Editorial Assistant Hannah Sharron ea@redbrick.me Editorial Assistants Anna Gunn Amy Hunt Emma Roper Gurnesha Bola Jess Allsopp Rachel Deevey Sophie Preece Stefan Pace Pippa Smith

Redbrick Guild of Students Edgbaston Park Road Birmingham B15 2TT 0121 251 2462 editor@redbrick.me Redbrick is printed through www.mortonsprint.com 01507 523 456 Paper Advertising Contact Linda Langley in Guild Marketing on 0121 251 2524 Online Advertising Contact marketing@redbrick.me Designed and typeset by Redbrick Copyright (C) Redbrick 2015 The views expressed in Redbrick do not necessarily reflect those of the editors, the Guild or the publishers. If you find an error of fact in our pages, please write to the Editor. Our policy is to correct mistakes promptly in print and to apologise where appropriate. We reserve the right to edit any article, letter or email submitted for publication.

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20th February - 9th March 2015

Model United Nations Society run successful UoB Model Arab League

03

CASE Philanthropy Day Safiyyah Gareeboo Deputy Editor

Sam Bartlett News Reporter

The University of Birmingham's United Nations Society recently ran their annual Model Arab League Conference (UoBMAL) from January 30th to February 1st. The largest of its kind currently held in Europe, the conference attracts the attention of other universities across the globe, with 80 delegates attending from as far as Nice, Strasbourg and Laval (Canada) and giving the weekend a truly international feel.

For those unfamiliar with the society, the Model UN Society is dedicated to the study of international relations, diplomacy and the values that the UN stands for.

They meet weekly and debate a different international relations topic, with each member representing a nation and their standpoint on the issue.

The conference itself was run on a slightly different format and scale, representing an opportunity for delegates to take part in an active simulation involving an international security issue, in this case the current Middle Eastern crisis. The con-

ference gave students the chance to act out roles of cabinet positions for each of the Arab League nations (plus Israel, Iran and Russia), reacting to ‘crisis’ developments with official diplomacy, press statements and back channel negotiations.

The conference began with guest speaker Professor Scott Lucas, who delivered a speech on the nature of diplomacy, information and misinformation. The weekend proceeded with further crisis developments of the kind, delegates actively engaging in the security exercise; faced with their peers, required to make quick judgments and to put the betterment of all above their own personal intentions.

The cabinets struggled to form a coalition against ISIS due to their respective differences, suspicions and tension with Israel, while there was even a record number of dispositions (assassinations, votes of no confidence etc.). Despite this, Society President Michael Rusu considered the conference ‘a splendid success’.

He added, ‘We have managed to raise the number of attendants and give a professional feel to a weekend full of negotiations, tensions, diplomatic talks and tough

decision-making. Faced with the prospect of conflict, the delegates, in full control of their personas, did their best and attempted to bring the world closer to peace I am certain that next year will be bigger, better and even more impressive’.

"I am certain that next year will be bigger, better and even more impressive" The delegates found the weekend both enjoyable and productive, as delegate from Nice Charlotte Rbn stated ‘I really enjoyed this new experience, enabling me to discover some hidden parts of my personality and abilities’ while first year History student Joanna Ballaster felt it was ‘incredible to meet such a diverse group of people responding to problems that countries in the Middle East face today’.

You can find more information about the Society by emailing unysa@guild. bham.ac.uk or on Facebook at ‘University of Birmingham United Nations Society’.

On the 26th February, Old Joe will be showing off a brand new look. The date marks the third annual Student Engagement and Philanthropy Day organised by Council for the Advancement and Support of Education (CASE), which celebrates the input that alumni donations have had. The Alumni Relations Department at the University of Birmingham plan to show their appreciation to alumni donors. Their support has helped projects ranging from capital developments, such as the new library and sports centre, to mentoring and internship opportunities for students.

Last year, campus was taken over by the cryptic ‘4714’ all around campus, and on the day #4714 balloons filled a tree in Chancellor’s Court. The number represented the 4,714 donors that year and gift tags around campus allowed students to express their thanks for all the contributions alumni have made. This year, a surprise redecoration of Old Joe on the 26th February will commemorate alumni donors, with gift tags around campus in places with connections to donors.

2015's CASE Philanthropy Day will also involve a Students vs Staff vs Alumni Pub Quiz in Joe’s Bar, in the Guild of Students at 6:30pm. Last year saw an alumni team win, so to beat them this time, register at http://www.bhamalumni. org/eventregistration.

To find out more ahead of the day follow @birminghamalum, who will be tweeting more about alumni donations and Old Joe’s new look in the run up to the 26th February, and will be able to reveal all on the day.

Newly formed UoB Band Reaches National Final

University Launches Student-Run Record Label

Adam Rowe

Amal Osagie

News Reporter

Native State, a new band from the University of Birmingham, has made it to a national Battle of the Bands final which will take place in Manchester on 26th February.

This follows the popular iSessions local heat evening, that was held at The Lounge in Selly Oak before Christmas where five UoB bands performed and competed against each other.

Each act from the various local heats were professionally recorded and the videos were put to a public vote on independent.co.uk. From here, anybody could view the videos and vote for their favourite band with the five bands with the highest amount of votes qualifying for the final.

Similar competitions took place at twenty other universities nationwide, where up to five bands bid for a place in the final.

The four-piece band describes themselves as: ‘an indie-rock band, with a funky punch’. Fronted by Seb Hornby, with rhythm guitar and BVs from Ben Pinkus, bass and BVs from George Chapman and drumming from Jared McGivern. ‘Although we have only been

together since October 2014, we want to continue writing and gigging in Birmingham and further afield.’

"an indie-rock band with a funky punch" George Chapman, second-year medical student, told Redbrick: 'We're so excited to be in the final, especially off the back of our first ever gig! As full-time students, we can't always find the time to work towards this goal; the iSessions competition has enabled us to get onestep closer to making our mark!'

The national final will be hosted at the popular venue Gorilla, and the judges on the night will be BBC Radio 6’s Mary Ann Hobbs, Natasha Haddad, the music programmer for Latitude, Alice Jones, Deputy Arts Editor for The Independent & i, and i’s student editor Tom Mendelsohn.

The prize for the winning band will be VIP tickets for Latitude Festival 2015 and studio recording time.

If students would like to attend the final and cheer on UoB, there will be a free coach to Manchester from UoB leaving in the afternoon and returning the same evening. There will also be two free drinks on arrival. Please email adamrowe@gmx.com for more info.

News Reporter

The University of Birmingham’s alumni group, The Circles of Influence will be funding the launch of a record label, New Street Records. This will be done in collaboration with Birmingham City University who will be supporting with the production and promotion of artists.

This first of its kind venture, will provide a team of over 70 volunteers with entrepreneurial skills hereby supporting the long - term objective of encouraging more business start-ups in the region. The idea which is the brainchild of Laura Hand and Anna Blessing, both final year Business Management students of the University of Birmingham who are the directors of the label. The pair aim to promote an array of artists by assisting with recording, distributing and promoting singles and albums.

"We are excited to launch the label" ‘We are excited to launch the label and we have a team of enthusiastic and passionate volunteers who will no doubt make the venture a long term success.

Nobody is currently doing what we are

doing now,’ said Anna.

‘The venture should inspire creativity and business in young people and women,’ added Laura.

Tickets are already being sold for the album launch which will be held at 7pm at the Bristol Pear, Selly Oak on the 26th

"nobody is currently doing what we are doing" of February, 2015. The record label will also be hosting a Live Music and Media Night with a range of music from a packed line-up of bands and artists alongside an A&R and media night where artists can perform and also experience the opportunity of gaining a recording contract. More information regarding this will be displayed on their Facebook, Twitter and Instagram pages.

04 20th February - 9th March 2015

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News

What is the proposed Guild model all about?

The structure of the Guild is changing. Following a campus-wide survey of thousands of students, a new model has been proposed with a new way of enabling students to influence what the Guild does for us. Guild Councillor Harry Jacobs compares the current structure and the proposed one...

The current model

The proposed model

Idea or Proposal

Idea submitted online Petition signed by 200 students

Guild Council (student debate)

Less than 300 votes or 33% 'for'

Between 33% and 66% vote 'for'

More than 66% vote 'for'

Campus-wide referendum Idea sent to General Assembly

Accept or Reject on behalf of students

Less than 10% vote or 50% 'against'

50% vote 'for'

Idea rejected

Idea accepted

Last Thursday, Guild Council approved another referendum that would change the democratic structures of the Guild.

Spearheaded by the President, Poppy Wilkinson, and the Vice President of Democracy Resources and Sustainability, Bethan Dovey, the proposed model would see the current representative democracy replaced with a form of direct democracy.

Last year’s referendum on a proposed model returned a ‘No’ vote and also did not receive enough votes to be valid.

Now, a new model, created by the Sabbatical Officers, will be decided on by students in a referendum alongside the Officer Team Elections. The new model is built upon the same research as last year’s but attempts to fix the concerns students had with the last proposal.

The new model would see the Guild’s parliament, Guild Council, which is comprised of elected representatives of Academic Schools, Student Societies and Representation and Liberation Associations, replaced with a form of online direct democracy.

If accepted, students would submit their ideas or proposals to the Guild via

an online form and will then be available online for 2 weeks for students to vote upon. If more than two-thirds of students vote for the proposal then it will be accepted immediately. If it receives less than one-third of votes or 300 in total it will be rejected. If it receives between one-third and two-thirds it will be sent to the new ‘General Assembly’.

"Some Guild Councillors argue that the new system would create a tyranny of the minority" The General Assembly would be a forum to discuss the proposals further, but they will not be amended. Voting will take place online again and is also open to all students. For the proposal to pass it must once again secure a two-thirds majority.

Critics have argued that there is little point of the General Assembly as there is no incentive to turn up and speak as all decisions taken there will also be online.

Former Vice President (Education) at the Guild, Hattie Craig, said at Guild Council:

Total votes less than 66% 'for'

Total votes more than 66% 'for'

Idea rejected

Idea accepted

‘it doesn't matter if people turn up to this meeting, it makes no difference. This is not deliberative democracy if you do not have to deliberately attend’. However, the proposers of the model argue that research conducted last year showed that students wanted a forum for deliberative democracy but preferred online voting.

Some Guild Councillors argue that the new system would create a tyranny of the minority and is less democratic, as just shy of two-thirds of students could ratify a proposal. One Councillor argued that the new voting system would constitute ‘a shallow version of democracy’.

In a critical suggestion to the model she helped create, Dovey said she would ‘much rather have a higher threshold for a motion to be strongly supported.'

Some see the threshold for validating new proposals – 1% rather than the current 10% – as too low. Concerns were also raised that the new model lacked scrutiny and accountability of the fulltime Officer Team (or ‘Sabbatical Officers’).

Voting on the proposed model will open March 2nd at 10 am until March 6th at 4 pm.

Key dates for Guild Officer Elections 2015 Campaigning begins: 25th Feb Voting opens: 2nd March Voting closes: 6th March Final results: 7th March

redbrick.me/news

20th February - 9th March 2015

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UoB student shortlisted for one-way mission to Mars Isma Azad News Editor

@ismaazad

The Mars One project, a Dutch-backed mission to send a group on a one way flight to Mars, has shortlisted a hundred candidates from 200,000 applicants, of which 5 are British. The final hundred includes Maggie Lieu, an Astronomy and Space PHD student at University of Birmingham.

The project aims to send 40 people on a 140 million-mile journey ‘to establish a human settlement on Mars’. The mission began its selection process last year. Ms Lieu is now beginning her 10 year training in the hopes of becoming one of the finalists.

The training for the mission is to be filmed as part of a reality show, which is to be produced by Endemol, the team behind Big Brother. The proposed reality television show will follow the trainee astronauts during their 10 year training period.

Lieu has said she hopes to be the first mother on Mars. ‘I’m very open to having a baby on Mars. I think it would be really exciting to be the mother of the first ever baby born there. My baby could be the first ever Martian, we’d be the Adam and Eve of Mars.’ She mentions that she is ‘pretty aware there are a lot of risks involved’.

The 2016 unmanned cargo missions, which will deliver the things the astronauts will need when the first team lands in 2025, has been estimated to cost around £4 billion. After that, crews of four will depart every two years. Redbrick understands that only about 1/8000 of the estimated funding target has been met. It is hoped that advertising revenue from the reality show will make up the remaining shortfall.

"I’m very open to having a baby on Mars. I think it would be really exciting to be the mother of the first ever baby born there" The Mars One Project has been met with skepticism from some. Astronaut Commander Chris Hadfield said he thinks the mission is ‘overly optimistic’.

In addition, Olivier de Weck, an MIT researcher and professor of aeronautics and astronautics and engineering, presented a joint paper arguing that the mission is unlikely to go ahead in Toronto last year.

Doubts were raised regarding the logistics, the timeline and proposed use of existing technology.

‘We’re not saying, black and white, Mars One is unfeasible, but we do think it’s not really feasible under the assumptions [the organisers] made,’ said de

Guild Ethical and Environmental Officer resigns suddenly Sabrina Dougall News Editor

@Sabrina_Dougall

Ethical and Environmental Officer Christopher Jarrold has officially resigned from his position. The non-Sabbatical officer, who was elected to the part-time role last year, has announced he will no longer be able to continue his duties at the Guild of Students.

The news comes just under a fortnight until voting opens for the Guild Elections on 2nd March.

In his resignation letter, Jarrold alleges that there are insufficient staff members to support him in his role; he counts three who have been assisting him. He argues that there should be more paid staff or Non-Sabbatical roles should be paid.

He also states a 'lack of involvement from senior staff within the Guild' (with a few exceptions) to campaign for ethical and environmental matters has made his role too difficult to manage. He says 'the majority of [Guild] staff' put in 'little time' to help with Go Green Week, as one example of this. As a result, Jarrold felt that ‘little is actually achieved’ by way of addressing environmental issues at the University.

‘Unlike the Sabbatical Officers, who are paid £17,500 a year and have a team of experienced staff members at their disposal, the EEO has no experienced or dedicated staff to help to maximise the impact and focus of their work,’ said Jarrold in his resignation letter.

In a statement, Guild President Poppy Wilkinson told Redbrick ‘We would like to thank Chris for the effort and time that he dedicated to the role, and for his enthusiasm and commitment to Ethical and Environmental issues on campus and beyond’.

The statement points out that environmental issues ‘are factored into every decision’ made at the Guild, which won an NUS Green Impact Gold Award in 2012, 2013 and 2014. In addition to this, the Guild now aims to attain a Green Impact Excellence Award which will pave the way for a planned sustainability project on campus.

‘Part-time roles remain central to our representative structures,’ the statement adds.

There are three candidates for the upcoming election for the new EEO. James Honke, Samuel Benson and ‘Re-Open Nominations’. More information on their campaigns are available on the official Guild Elections website: http://www.guildelections.co.uk/

"These aspiring martians provide the world with a glimpse into who the modern day explorers will be" Weck.

Bars Landsdorp, the Dutch entrepre-

neur behind the Mars One mission commented after the announcement of the 100 shortlisted candidates: ‘These aspiring martians provide the world with a glimpse into who the modern day explorers will be’.

Landsdorp is serious about seeing these plans come to fruition. ‘If you look at the team involved in Mars One, none of us would do this as a hoax,’ he said.

06 20th February - 9th March 2015

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News Students reach final of national sustainability competition Vedika Bahl News Editor

@itsmevedika

Three University of Birmingham students have made it through to the national final of BP’s Ultimate Field Trip Competition.

The competition is an international student STEM contest, encouraging engineering, sciences and business students to apply studied theory to real-life scenarios.

It is the largest of its kind in the UK. This year the challenge was to propose solutions regarding issues with the production and processing of oil, gas and biofuels which all produce water-waste.

The team from UoB consists of Geography undergraduate Richard Hinds, as well as Stephen Stone and Jagjit Chaggar, who both study Chemical Engineering.

Team leader Richard said: ‘The team have put in incredible effort and we hope our hard work, dedication and commitment will be rewarded. The prize for the competition is an internship placement in the BP office in Trinidad and Tobago for the summer and that would be a priceless lifelong experience, as well as a foot in the door of any industry.’

"We looked for alternative methods to clean waste water from shale gas extraction, focusing our attention on China" Jagjit told Redbrick: ‘We looked for alternative methods to clean waste water

from shale gas extraction, focusing our attention on China which has the 7th largest shale deposits globally. We look to clean the water by utilising China’s neglected water. By increasing pressures and temperatures of waste water to supercritical conditions, we can remove organic and inorganic waste compounds resulting in cleaner water to be distributed.’

To prepare for the final, the team have been given a task to produce a video describing their idea and technology to be played in front of three renowned judges who are successful within the BP sector.

To reach this stage in the contest, the team created a presentation, poster and pitched the idea to various corporates at BP. Stephen said the team are ‘feeling quite confident’ as they believe their idea is ‘quite different, with the potential to be

"I can’t believe we got into the final but even if we don’t win it’s been great to put some engineering into practice for the future" successful and implemented into current infrastructure.’

‘I can’t believe we got into the final but even if we don’t win it’s been great to put some engineering into practice for the future,’ he added.

The grand final will be taking place on the 10th March 2015 at the British Museum in London. The finalists will present their solutions to a panel of judges in front of a live audience and a celebrity compere Jake Humphries.

The cost of playing for a sports team at university Sophie Dober invesitgates how much it costs to take part in a Russell Group university sport such as Netball, Cricket, Football or Athletics. Sophie will investigate how much a sports membership and a sports kit costs? Additional costs spent by sports students will also be comapred. The price of gym or swimming memberships at the universities will also feature.

University of Birmingham are well known for their sporting activities, and their many successes in team competitions. Being a member of a sports team demands high commitment, training between 4-6 times a week, and a strain on their bank accounts.

Redbrick investigates the cost of taking part in a university team for netball, football, cricket and athletics, in comparison with other Russell group universities. We also compared gym memberships and swimming costs to find out if UoB's sports prices are less expensive, on par, or more expensive than other universities, including Bristol, Manchester, Loughborough, Southampton, Cambridge and Warwick.

A student on a sports team typically faces costs of annual membership, match and training kit as well as social events.

University of Birmingham’s annual football membership costs £180, higher than Loughborough, Manchester, Warwick and Cambridge. The other football memberships range from £94 to £120.

UoB’s annual membership for cricket is also most expensive at £145 - more than Loughborough, Manchester and Warwick.

Cricket memberships for all universities that responded were over £100, and the University of Warwick don’t include the price of training at £50.

The price of UoB’s netball annual membership is £185, which is a hundred pounds more expensive than Loughborough. Despite this, a first year student on the netball team, who plays competitively, told Redbrick, ‘I think its all fairly priced because we receive so much training and we have proper coaches so you really do get what you pay for and improve as a player.’

As well as the annual membership, sports members need to ensure they have the correct clothing and equipment to take part.

The difficulty with comparing the price of sports kits is the fact that an individual can purchase the compulsory requirement or as many additional items as they wish.

In contrast to the annual membership,

compulsory kit for football at UoB is the cheapest at £99, which is more than £50 cheaper than the priciest kit in our study which was at Warwick.

Netball kits are generally more expensive than football kits. A Cambridge kit costs £155 whilst Loughborough kit costs around £177. However Birmingham’s annual netball membership is more costly than the other two universities, as Birmingham loan the netball dresses for team members, which they return when they leave. Consequently, a student could potentially save money on the kit, depending on how much they chose to purchase.

The cost of cricket kits is the most varied in price, ranging from £80 - £350 (with the most expensive helmet and bat); UoB kit is one of the cheapest costing around £100.

The University of Manchester cricket captain estimated the price of a cricket kit at between £190- £350. However, this included the price of the bat, glove and ball, whereas the other club captains didn’t mention this.

From this data, we can conclude that although annual membership prices for sports at UoB are the most expensive, the cost of the kit is generally at the low end of the spectrum.

Regarding the price of kit, the Cambridge Netball Club Captain, Emily, told Redbrick that the cost for our students ‘depends entirely on the sponsorship we are able to get in for the year.’ Emily said last year’s kit cost each student £133, although the price has risen by £22 this year.

UoB Gymnastic Head Coach, Kate said, ‘other clubs do a better job at subsidising the kit [for members], because we take the kukri sponsorship and use it for things like competitions and hall hire.’ This highlights that the cost of kit also comes down to the way sports club choose to use funding.

What about socials? UoB has an optional weekly sports social at the Guild of Students, estimated to cost a student between £5 - £25.

In addition, sports teams often host formal events such as an annual ball, with tickets

priced between £60-£80 across the universities and sports teams. Although socials aren’t compulsory, Redbrick found that one of the general motives for students to become part of a sports team is to meet new people, and so students may end up taking a slice out of their bank balance to socialise with teammates.

Often travel and match costs are included in the annual membership. However, some travel costs aren’t included, for example Loughborough teams typically have to pay a travel cost of between £5-20, depending on where the match is. So even though Loughborough sports memberships are cheaper than UoB, travel costs may incur extra expense for students there.

Some sports teams at various universities have other additional costs. For example, the football team at the University of Cambridge hold a training week in Spain during the Christmas holiday, which the club captain, Henry says is ‘basically compulsory’. In addition, Cambridge football have a Varsity match that costs £70 for the kit, transportation and accommodation.

The costs are lower in other areas, however. Henry told Redbrick, ‘we have a minibus and a volunteer driver so transport to away games is free.’ This is also the case for many other university teams. For instance, UoB students who play ice hockey can benefit from students providing free lifts to the Solihull training venue.

Now to look at the price of gym memberships. Out of the Russell Group Universities in our study (Bristol, Loughborough, Cambridge, Oxford, Manchester, Warwick and Birmingham), the lowest annual peak gym membership was at Oxford University which cost £62. The most expensive was at University of Bristol at £260. This is a considerable difference in price, however Oxford’s gym membership is purely for ‘Pulse Gym’ whereas Bristol’s ‘Peak Membership Package’ includes free access to all centrally-managed sporting facilities, free exercise classes, discounted sports medicine clinic services, discounted indoor and outdoor tennis courts, free gym induction and free use of the Olympic Weights room and strength as well as conditioning advice for Performance Sports Clubs. Bristol’s offpeak gym membership is £160.00 with five of the above incentives.

The second most expensive gym membership is at the University of Cambridge and costs £250 for a peak-time membership.

Unlike UoB, this membership includes a reduced rate on all exercise classes. The annual peak-time gym membership at UoB is £195, the third most expensive out of

seven universities, which only includes access to the gym. Despite this, Birmingham sports centre offer a range of options for students to bring the price of gym membership down or to have a more inclusive gym membership. For example the ‘Super Saver Off-Peak’ gym membership is £135, and the ‘Gym, Squash and Swim’ memberships cost £277. Group exercise classes can also be bought for as little as £30.50 for ten classes, without the need to purchase membership.

The question is, do students prefer a less expensive gym membership solely for the gym or a more expensive gym membership to gain access to the sports centre?

A first year Mechanical Engineer student at UoB told Redbrick that gym memberships should have ‘options for a full sports centre membership for all facilities and just gym options’.

Interestingly, Liverpool John Moores University offer free gym membership to its staff and students.

Simon Hicks, Director of University of Bristol’s sports centre, estimated a total cost of £300- £400 a year for a performance sports members, which includes athletics, cricket, netball and football. The price includes qualified coached session per week, local, regional and national league matches on weekends. ‘Many sports students use the facilities and services up to 16 times a week,’ Hicks told Redbrick, ‘and each visit costs the sports team £1 - £1.20 per visit’.

Key Findings Summarised: Some include travel, like UoB, others, like Loughborough, do not.

UoB annual sports memberships are at the high end of the spectrum compared with similar Rssell Group Universities.

The cost of the kit depends on club sponsorship, as well as the optional kit choices.

University sports teams either put a higher price on membership in comparison to their kit, or higher price on kit than on membership.

Football kits across the universities are generally less expensive than cricket or netball kits.

Sport clubs can lack funding and so the expense transfers to students.

redbrick.me/comment

20th February - 9th March 2015

07

Comment

Farcebook?

Olivia Beesley Commentator

Really what does Facebook exist for?

Connecting with people? Sharing videos of animals? Liking your friend’s embarrassing photos from 2010 and having this reciprocated? (You know who you are) While Facebook has had a great deal of bad publicity over the years; online bullying, indecent exposure and grooming to name a few, I see the most dangerous Facebook activity as the activity that we all engage in on a weekly basis. You will be very familiar with it from the way it makes you feel when you see the weekend party photos be uploaded, from the way it makes you assess your life

"This process not only allows you to release your true self but also gives others the oppurtunity to do so." when you see a status documenting people doing fun and amazing things, and from the way you see yourself as inadequate when your life looks deficient compared to your Facebook friends. I recall my friend once commenting about our mutual friend, saying: “She hasn’t posted anything to Facebook lately, so she mustn’t be up to much”. Is this true? No. This is the farce that we all engage in bittersweetly, enhancing our lives with tinted filters and leaving out the unnecessary realities. Yes, you may have gone out last Friday and Saturday, and you looked amaz-

ing, but did you enjoy the experience as much as your statuses express you did?

‘Feeling so lucky’, ‘Feeling happy’, ‘Feeling excited’.

Are we? Or have we convinced ourselves that our perceived and presented lives are actually our real ones. We become involved in a double personality, a double life, trying to act accordingly to how others now perceive us. However, the most dangerous element of this fake world we have all aided to build is that we are building it from the inside, closing off every available exit we have to escape. Once you become known for a certain quality or characteristic and then choose to live up to it, it becomes terribly hard to break away from this and tell the truth.

I strongly believe that the best social medicine in this world is people; communicating honestly with individuals and opening up to others is something that I have come to value particularly over the past year. This process not only allows you to release your true self, but gives others the permission to do so too. How many times have you felt relieved when others have told you that ‘actually, everything isn’t ok’? Not because you are sadistic, but because you feel exactly the same. The truth is that our lives aren’t as effortlessly glossy as we project to others and we all need to acknowledge this in front of each other. Leaving trails of misguiding statuses and photos on Facebook undermines this liberating process completely – we only end up engaging in passive wars with those we love, trying to prove that our lives are far better than they actually are.

I am not implying that my life is bad; in fact, I enjoy it immensely and truly love and appreciate everyone in it. However, I know that if I put myself on trial for pro-

jecting a more polished version of my life than I actually have, I would be as guilty as anyone else.

I know that such activity isn’t productive, if anything it harms others and fuels the game of ‘who had the best summer holiday’, ‘who had the best night out’ and even ‘who had the best cup of coffee’. It seems ridiculous, but is extremely addictive; who doesn’t want to be perceived as perfect in the eyes of others when we have so many pressures on us to be so?

I know that this way of socializing is not entirely destructive; I love to look at, comment, like (and occasionally stalk) my friends photos from all over the world to keep in contact with them. But I acknowledge that Facebook as a whole has become tainted by the lives we wish others to see.

Never would I post a photo of myself after a night out, or when my baking went horribly wrong and I nearly set the oven on fire. But maybe I should. Opening up in this way allows others to see that you are real. You are just like them. I think that after the initial shock of stripping away the glossy paper that somewhat distorts your true life, we would all feel relieved that our secret is out – we are all normal human beings. We fall over, take bad photos, make mistakes and sometimes our cakes look more like an avalanche than something off of Pinterest. But the most liberating thing we can acknowledge is that that’s ok.

Rather than rounding this thought off with clichés and telling you to ‘be yourself’, instead I encourage you to just be honest – one of the most natural things you can be. You’ll be surprised at how many others follow your lead.

“Being honest may not get you a lot of friends, but it will always get you’re the right ones” – John Lennon

What do you think?

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50 Shades of Grey: Romanticising Abuse Katy Spencer

protagonist, Ana Steele, is emotionally manipulated by Christian Grey, who withholds affection and threatens violence outside of BDSM scenes, and controls many aspects of her life, including socially isolating her from friends and family. He takes

Commentator Having already sold 100 million books, the first film to be released from the Fifty Shades of Grey series has now broken the box office record for a female-directed film. It’s got the media and readers alike whipped into a frenzy and has inspired many to explore their sexual fantasies by replicating its scenes (B&Q prepared staff for an increase in sales of rope and cable ties this weekend). While no one is expecting Fifty Shades to be much of a test for their grey matter (that’s the last pun, I promise), critics have not only challenged the appallingly bad dialogue and catastrophic lack of plot, but also its damaging representations of BDSM relationships.

Members of the BDSM community have expressed their concern that the Fifty Shades franchise does not accurately reflect the practice, instead, it conflates BDSM role play with physical and emotional abuse. The BDSM subculture, which can incorporate aspects of Bondage and Discipline, Domination and Submission,

"an insult to all survivors of domestic abuse and sexual assault."

"Inspired many to explore their sexual fantasies by replicating it's scenes." and Sadomasochism, is based around positive ideas of wellbeing and enthusiastic consent, which is more than merely the absence of a ‘no’. The ‘safe, sane and consensual’ mantra promotes safety and selfcontrol, which is especially important in situations of unequal power relations, and after a BDSM ‘scene’ partners often engage in ‘aftercare’. Honest communication and mutual respect are therefore encouraged in

David Iliff

ways which should be a model for all relationships. The community aspect of BDSM allows these skills to be discussed and learnt in a social environment, such as the University’s Fetish Society. This is not reflected in the books, in which the central characters’ entire relationship revolves around a dominant- submissive dichotomy.

Several analyses, including an article

published in 2013 in the Journal of

"Fifty Shades of Grey is not just harmless fun and naughtiness."

Women’s Health, have found the Fifty Shades series to portray characteristics associated with abusive relationships. The

advantage of her inexperience to coerce her into sex and at one point deliberately uses alcohol to compromise her ability to consent. His initial warning for her to stay away is a tactic often used by abusers as a way of later shifting responsibility and blame onto the victim.

In this light, Fifty Shades of Grey is not just harmless fun and naughtiness. Given the horrifying statistics that in this country 2 women are murdered each week by a current or former partner, and a quarter of women will experience domestic violence in their lifetime, normalising and romanticising intimate partner violence is incredibly dangerous. The film’s Valentine’s Day release date is an insult to all survivors of domestic abuse and sexual assault. This is ultimately a story of abuse, packaged, tied up, and sold as ‘romance’.

08 20th February - 9th March 2015

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Comment

Another A-Level Axed!

Aamina Siddiqi

Commentator There are not many anthropology students at university but you will see them if you look closely, sitting in the window seats of the library or sipping coffee while soaking in the university environment, quietly observing. I am one of those elusive students. My personal journey with anthropology began with taking the A-Level and falling in love with all aspects of the world. Within one year, my perspective of all things dramatically changed, I was able to see and think in a way that other subjects did not enable me too; the walls of my tunnel vision were broke and instead of only seeing the light at the end, it was everywhere. The philosopher, Immanuel Kant defined Anthropology as the study of what makes us more human. This, although very profound, is a very romanticised definition. There are several branches of anthropology and within that sub-fields of every subject you can imagine, from anthropology of religion to anthropology of the Internet. Essentially, if anyone asks, it is the study of humans and cultures, but this answer barely scratches the surface.

For something that has shaped my academic mind to such an extent, it really disheartened me when I read the news that the government is planning on axing Anthropology from the A Level curriculum. Last year Michael Gove the then

"There are serveral branches of anthropology and within that sun-fields of every subject you can imagine."

Secretary of State for Education decided to revert A Levels back to the rigorous two year course that they used to be instead of sitting them in two parts - this led to a lot of subjects being axed from exam boards, Anthropology is one of them. The main

reasoning behind it is that there are not enough students taking the course and they cannot fund the insufficiently filled course. In my opinion, this is a lie to cover up wider problems. Some have argued that according to AQA only 222 students are taking the subject, which is not a vast number therefore getting rid of the A-Level would not have a big effect. However, those students are for the A2 course only, if you include all AS and A2 students, the number amounts to over 800. For a course that has only been around since September 2010, the growth and prominence is encouraging. It makes more sense to get rid of subjects that have been taught for decades and have had a chance to showcase their unpopularity rather than to stop a subject after seven short years. The small-scale expansion of the subject just goes to show how favoured it has become with students and teachers alike. If AQA do go ahead and stop examining students for Anthropology by 2017, the graduates from the graduating class of ’17 would not be able to become teachers in something

they so passionately believe in. While the core problem behind this decision may be the lack of Anthropology trained teachers, AQA have not done enough to promote the subject. Most post-16 students have no idea what anthropology is and will not want to choose a subject that they don’t know how to spell, let alone what it means.

"The small scale expansion of the subject just goes to show how favoured it has become with students and teachers alike."

The usefulness of anthropology is not only understandable to those who know what the discipline is but it extends to global companies, corporate businesses etc. the example that my A-Level teacher

liked to reiterate time and time again was of a company who wanted to take the success of dishwashers to Japan. For some unknown reasons, these dishwashers would not sell so the company recruited an anthropologist who, after a few months of research, found that firstly Japanese families tend to live in small apartments which do not fit dishwashers and secondly that the dishwasher was seen as ‘cheating’ for a housewife. The anthropologist fed this information back to the company and subsequently the company put out a campaign that changed the cultural beliefs about the dishwasher making the housewife lazy, instead showcasing the dishwasher as a family aid to help the running of day to day life, and they downsized the dishwasher so that it would fit on kitchen countertops. The two things noted by the anthropologist enabled the company to break into the Japanese retail industry and they made a lot of money (the anthropologist made millions too, just saying).

The unique inverted perspective that Anthropology gives students has been acknowledged by thousand who have taken to change.org and signed the petition to keep Anthropology as an A level.

Top anthropologists such as Joy Hendry and Thomas Eriksen have signed as well as several students, teachers and Russell Brand (not really helping the hipster image that Anthropology already has, but we need signatures at this point, not names!).

One of the beautiful things is that it combines so many disciplines; you need history to understand the people, you need English to understand the written word, you need politics to understand the system of a certain ethnic group; it’s the amalgamation of the humanities and the sciences that create unique people who are able to see the world with a variety of lenses.

Being an anthropologist is not a career; it’s a way of life.

Sign the petition to save the Anthropolgy A-Level online at: https:// www.change.org/p/save-anthropology-a-level

Who Cares About Happiness?

Maybe we should care less about the formal economy and more about how happy we actually feel...

Zach Bailey Commentator

I’m tired and fed up as an economics student of the same old boring discussions in the media about how standard of living has stagnated since the crisis of 2008, and how the level of national debt continues to spiral out of control. At the end of the day what do people expect to happen after perhaps the second most severe economic crisis of all time. What’s more is that the dire conditions of poverty that many of our society are experiencing are set to stay.

The first warning of the struggle yet to come is the rapid decline in the global price of oil. After all, this is basic economics, if the demand for a commodity drops, and if its supply remains constant, then its price will undoubtedly fall. What worries me is that this fall in demand hasn’t come from the Western world whose economies have barely expanded over the past few quarters, but from reduced industrial activity in high growth states including China. This reduction in global industrial activity, and subsequent falling oil price will be the source of economic crisis in oil dependent states such as Russia, which will contribute to the increased suppression of global business confidence, and the continuation of the low growth that has become so commonplace since 2008.

Moreover, it's unlikely that average

incomes will increase at all in real terms over the next few years, as not only will growth be consistently low, but it’s benefits will most likely be enjoyed by an elite few in positions of economic power. This may all seem like doom and gloom to your average Joe, however, I believe that we should care less about our objective forms of well-being such as our level of income

and resources, and more about how we actually feel about our lives as a whole.

The reason being is that research into the economics of happiness consistently finds that there is a very limited or no clear relationship between economic growth and subjective or self-defined happiness. The argument is that material consumption only provides temporary satisfaction for the

individual, as over time social comparison and adaption to our experiences causes our aspirations to increase roughly in proportion to our income. It seems that economic growth has largely betrayed its promises, and that our wealthy cosmopolitan society is equally as miserable as our agrarian ancestors.

Therefore, although the majority of us want to land a dream graduate job which will provide us with an income that meets our desires for designer clothes and sports cars, why not focus on something that actually makes you feel good about yourself, and more importantly uses your graduate talents for the benefit of society.

Perhaps it would be different if I were a Goldman Sachs executive, (who, by the way, earned an average bonus of £2.3 million last year), however, I still can’t imagine not feeling a little guilty about making the 1% richer, when there are many in our society, and across the world who don’t have the resources to meet the basic needs of humanity.

So as the graduate jobs and deadlines pile into the inbox this spring, I’d urge each and every one of you to not choose a career based on earnings, or on the status it will give you in society, but something that gives you a purpose in life. After all, it would be a shame if those of us with the skills and opportunity failed to make a difference to the 7 billion people out there just trying to survive.

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20th February - 9th March 2015

09

The X Factor: Make Your Vote Count Anna Griffiths Commentator

Deciding whose box to cross come election day is tricky enough. Not only do students have the common dilemma of deciding who to vote for, but the added consideration of tactical voting and the challenge of choosing where to vote.

Traditionally, tactical voting means voting for a party you may not wholly agree with in order to reduce the chances of another party being elected. Tactical voting is a quirk of Britain’s first past the post system of electing governments. Dr Stephen Fisher, an expert in political sociology at Oxford university estimates that 9% of voters vote tactically, influencing around 45 seats.

For instance, a Liberal Democrat supporter who knows that their party has little chance of gaining their constituency seat may choose to vote instead for Labour, because the only other real contender for the seat are the Conservatives. Even if they disagree with some of their policies, to the tactical voter this is a decision made in order to ensure the lesser of their own particular evils are elected; in this case, Labour being preferable to the Conservatives.

This style of voting may only be of use when the election is close run. If you live in a constituency with a 50% majority (such as in Kirkcaldy & Cowdenbeath), regardless of which party the majority belongs to, you might want to vote for the party you most agree with to help contribute towards their aggregate vote, especially if you are a supporter of a protest party. Unless the local candidate of the majority party has done something so awful that they may lose that majority, it’s unlikely tactical vot-

ing in this scenario will vote out a party.

Rarely will a party encourage tactical voting of this sort, although occasionally it happens. Labour in the last general election were reported to have encouraged supporters in constituencies with a Conservative majority and the Liberal Democrats in opposition to vote Liberal Democrat, not Labour, in order to damage the Conservative majority. David Cameron jibed at this, claiming ‘if you want to keep Gordon Brown in Downing Street, you vote Lib Dem’.

"Surely you want to make your vote count as much as possible?"

The idea that someone may vote for a party they don’t agree with is one that bothers many, as it can be seen to be a manipulation of the democratic system. As BBC journalist Andrew McFarlane put it, it’s ‘a bit like voting off your strongest rival on the weakest link’. It is an action deplored by parties such as the Green Party, who rely on people to vote for who they truly believe in, rather than ‘who-they-like-best-who-actually-has-a-chance’. Yet, tactically voting is a way of using your vote to actively influence who governs your constituency and ultimately the country. Equally, how often is it that we find a party that we wholly agree with? Whether or not it is a moral decision to vote tactically is up to you.

Geographically, where you cast your vote can be important. If, like me, you live in a safe seat, then your vote is going to ‘mean less’ than average. In fact, unless you live in a marginal constituency (a seat held with a small majority), your vote can mean almost nothing; in the last election, the aver-

age UK vote was worth a mere 0.25 of a whole vote, as found by the New Economic Foundation). Find out how much your vote was worth in the last general election here: http://www.voterpower.org.uk.

Being a university student comes at a hefty price tag, but included in the decision to study is the right to choose where you want to vote; at home, or at university*, but not both. This a significant right, as the geographical location of your vote determines how much it is worth. Perhaps you should research how large the majority is in your home constituency.

The University of Birmingham, and much of the accommodation attached to it, is fortunate enough to be situated in the constituency of Edgbaston. In the 2015 general election, Edgbaston is considered to be

a marginal constituency. Here, one vote makes more difference to the election’s final result than in the average UK constituency. Surely you want to make your vote count as much as possible? If you do, then Edgbaston could be a good place for you to vote, and to have your say.

Whether you vote tactically or with your heart is your choice, as is where you cast your vote. For many of us, this is the first time we will vote in a general election.

There is an argument therefore that we should vote for who we truly believe in, whether that be a main political party or a protest party. And yet, in the closest election in modern times, is this something you can afford to do?

You choose. That is the point of voting, right?

Using celebrities in political campaigns can be done right Robert Jones Commentator

Celebrity involvement in British electoral politics and wider political debate is by no means a recent phenomena attempts by pervasive television personalities, musicians and members of the film industry to shape and influence the nature of political discourse are a common feature of our celebrity obsessed society. Indeed, the practice naturally tends to amplify in the run-up to a general election with Party endorsements coming through endlessly; consider Daniel Radcliffe for the Lib Dems in 2010, Noel Gallagher for New Labour in 1997, and Eddie Izzard for Labour in both 2005 and 2010 to name but a few. A similar scenario arose last year with 200 or so celebrities flinging their support at a open letter opposing Scottish Independence.

It would appear that 2015 shall be no different. Ed Balls yesterday revealed on Radio 4's Today Programme that the Tories have enlisted the Take That frontman and all-round patriotic nice guy Gary Barlow to attack Labour in the run-up to the election. I see two immediate issues with this, one of principle and one of practice.

Primarily, what qualifies someone to speak on behalf of a political party?

According to the Conservatives it's someone with no electoral accountability, limited political education and career experience in performing arts. To clarify, no one is suggesting that prominent figures such as Barlow don't have the right to express their opinions however a consideration to the wider impact of their potentially unfounded political opinions should be given especially in the increasingly common cases where the parties themselves

have approached celebrities rather than vice versa. To give someone with no political education spokesperson status with a major political party, no less an institution, is a dangerous reflection on 'official' Party communications.

Further issue can be found with the nature of Barlow's personal finances.

Promoting a figure as spokesperson for Conservative ideas whilst their assets reside in the Icebreaker Tax Scheme deemed by the inland revenue to be an elaborate facilitator of tax evasion is fundamentally at odds with the Chancellor's

"what qualifies someone to speak on behalf of a political party?" position on the matter. Given that politicians have been brought down for much less a confirmation by the Tories that Barlow is onside may do considerable but temporary harm to their election campaign. It'll be undoubtedly difficult for Tory campaign managers Jim Messina and Lynton Crosby to spin their way out of Barlow's involvement in Icebreaker leading me to suggest that there's still room for an emphatic denial of any such affiliation between Barlow and the Tories.

Regardless of the truth behind Ed Balls' claims it's still the principle that matters here. The Conservative Party would be placing a lot of influence in the hands of someone without any political education on the basis that he resonates well with the British people, is (largely) uncontroversial and is fiercely patriotic. Barlow's potential involvement in Tory campaigning represents a cynical and degrading practice which undermines the already compro-

mised quality and clarity of political rhetoric in British democracy.

One positive outcome of the Gary Barlow - Tory collaboration (regardless of whether it comes to fruition or not) would be its use as a springboard to address the wider issue of celebrity involvement in wider political debate. Contrary to what I may have already suggested, celebrities, regardless of background or education, can make for commendable and influential lobbyists on issues with less political heat than a general election perhaps.

Joanna Lumley with her Gurkha Rights Campaign and Angelina Jolie who recently spent time raising awareness of sexual violence in conflict spring to mind. Both Jolie and Lumley drew attention to underthe-radar issues whilst conducting their campaigns without sensationalist or illinformed rhetoric and vain capitalisation.

Apparent genuine compassion and a lack of political illiteracy defined their work in these areas. The prospect of other motivations for celebrities becoming involved in politics however is all too real.

The most prominent and perhaps worrying example would be that of Russell Brand with his over-simplification of the social inequalities we face and cynical cash-ins on the general anti-establishment mood of the electorate. He is undoubtedly giving a voice to the young and disillusioned but doing so whist simultaneously turning anti-capitalist ideas into a commodity - an irony which I hope is not lost on him.

Battles surrounding issues of social inequality, unchecked corporate power, women's rights, immigration and such alike need a face, but not one whose priorities lie elsewhere.

10 20th February - 9th March 2015

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Science & Technology Health Special

How to Boost Your Mood Find out how to gain control and de-stress your life with just a few simple tricks Ellie Patten

Sci & Tech Writer

Feeling the stress of juggling university work, maintaining friendships and being happy? Try some of these tips to boost your mood and cut down on stress, based on parts of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, both of which are therapies

used by psychologists for stress management, anxiety and low moods.

Find a Balance Of Activities If you’re feeling like you haven’t done anything but work in a while, make sure you use the little free time you have productively by choosing a balance of activities that give you a sense of achievement, closeness to others, and enjoyment.

Instead of using all your free time to watch TV and scroll through facebook

Bernard Goldbach

(although this is a great way to relax occasionally), do something that makes you feel like you’ve achieved something, like an hour of sport, or spend time with friends (even an hour can make you feel calmer and happier) or something fun (this could still be watching TV, or maybe reading or going shopping. Doing these kind of activities, rather than letting your free time disappear makes you feel like you’ve done more for yourself, and you’ll feel less bogged down with revision, making you much more productive. At the end of the day you can remember what you’ve done, rather than it all feeling like a non-stop cycle of revision and procrastination! You can even write a diary, or plan which activities you’ll do and when, to make sure you’re achieving a balance.

Make a List If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the amount of things you have to do, write a list. Write down what’s stressing you out, and then look at ways you can solve the problems, or finish the task. You’ll realise that these tasks and deadlines are actually quite manageable once they’re on paper, not fighting for attention in your head.

The same applies if you’re feeling depressed or anxious, and this is one of the main components of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy: write down what happened that made you upset or anxious, the feelings and thoughts associated with the event, and how you acted in response.

You can then work out ways to challenge

those thoughts so they affect you less in the future. You can also change your response to the event: for example, not avoiding the situation that makes you feel anxious can help to realise that actually, you can manage it, and gradually you’ll become much less anxious.

Do Something for YOU Find a sport or hobby that is solely for you, and doesn’t rely on anyone else; this could be exercise, shopping, reading, something creative, playing computer games or even just taking a bubble bath or meditating. This will make you feel independent and you’ll realise you don’t have to rely on other people to do something you enjoy. You are entirely capable of making yourself happy.

Remember, It’s Ok Not To Feel Ok Don’t be too hard on yourself. It’s ok to feel under the stress of it all occasionally.

There’s nothing wrong with feeling stressed, and it’s perfectly healthy to feel absolutely rubbish occasionally, and to show it. You don’t need to put on a huge smile and try to entertain everyone. Just try not to dwell for too long, remember that even a smile can boost your mood!

For anyone interested in reading more about techniques to cope with stress, anxiety or low moods, the University of Birmingham has a Wellbeing Collection on the ground floor of the main library, which has lots of useful resources. The internet has many free self-help information but be careful of what you read online!

Can Women Outrun Bolt?

Discover the gender differences in the way we exercise and how this affects the world records we set Chantelle Endley Sci & Tech Writer

The 100-metre sprint of the Olympic Games tests athletes’ power, agility, and most importantly, speed. Athletes such as Usain Bolt, Yohan Blake and Justin Gatlin have turned this race into a spectacular sight during their battle for winning the gold medal.

As they manage to complete the distance in sub-10 seconds, it is no wonder that this race leaves the crowds in awe and amazed. With his effortless run and show stopping performance, Bolt has been dubbed the fastest person in the world. He has broken an impressive number of World and Olympic records landing him to win countless numbers of Gold Medals.

However, I've always wondered why the women's record for 100-metres is not on par to the record for males. Whilst the men’s record stands at 9.58 seconds held

by Bolt, the women’s record remains at 10.49 seconds. This record was achieved by the American Athlete, Florence Griffith-Joyner in 1988 and still remains unbroken until this day. Similar differences are seen in longer distance races, such as the 1500-metre. So why is it that there appears to be differences between males and females of similar ability?

Logic points out the obvious – there are physical differences. Males have a bigger build on average with a greater muscle mass and smaller pelvis. This

gives them that extra advantage and ease in being successful in running races than their female counterparts. However, scientists have found that it may be more than this.

Experiments carried out at the University of British Columbia assessed the amount of oxygen required for breathing over a range of exercise intensities in healthy men and women. They found that a greater amount of oxygen is required by the respiratory muscles in women than men. The respiratory muscles include the diaphragm and the intercostal (between ribs) muscles, showing that women require more energy for breathing during exercise.

Respiratory muscles, along with the muscles of your arms and legs, belong to

towards skeletal muscles to match the increase in demand. At the same time, blood flow becomes reduced to other parts of the body such as the stomach and the kidney.

Professor William Sheel, the lead investigator of the study suggests that the higher metabolic demand of respiratory muscles in women must lead to a higher blood flow diverted to these muscles. He

alludes to the idea that blood flow may be reduced to the other skeletal muscles, such as those found in the legs, and thus females will have a less physical performance when it comes to exercise.

So can a woman outrun Bolt? It is not impossible to achieve, but women will have to work harder as more of their energy is devoted to breathing! But try your hardest, you'll never know!

"the men's record is 9.58 seconds held by Bolt, the women's remains at 10.49 seconds" a group called skeletal muscle. This group increase their oxygen demand during exercise, whether that is a simple jog around the block or a half-marathon.

Oxygen is essential for the metabolic breakdown of glucose within muscle to generate adenosine triphosphate (ATP), an energy harboring molecule required for muscle contraction. Thus, there is an increase in blood flow which is directed

The Q Speaks

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20th February - 9th March 2015

11

Use Your Sperm for Good

Our Sci &Tech Editor investigates the need for more sperm donors for the research programme between the Medical School and Birmingham Women’s Hospital.

Rachel Taylor Sci & Tech Editor

Basic scientific research on sperm is limited by the amount of sperm donors that the Centre for Human Reproductive Science (ChRS) can recruit to their research sperm donor database. These numbers may be limited by the false belief that sperm donation means the possibility of impregnating a woman and having an unwanted baby handed over to donors years later. Dr. Jackson KirkmanBrown MBE, a world leading expert on male fertility and the winner of Healthcare Scientist of 2014 aims to raise awareness of the necessity for male sperm in fertility research.

In the UK, 1 in 6 couples have fertility problems and we need more sperm donors for research to understand how to help them. Dr. Kirkman-Brown’s team work in the labs just behind the University of Birmingham’s Medical School and they are world leaders, pioneering for sperm research. Many other labs around the world concentrate their efforts on women’s fertility, but up to half of all fertility problems are male focused.

Many people don’t realise that it isn’t just fertilising an egg that can cause fertility problems. Damaged sperm may also cause miscarriages in the first trimester of pregnancy, a very common occurrence among the population.

The sperm research carried out within the ChRS covers three main areas; diagnosis, intervention and contraception.

Diagnosis encompasses discovery of sperm functions and fertility as well as

"up to half of all fertility problems are male" looking for markers of testicular and prostate cancer. Intervention focuses on picking and choosing sperm that has the greatest chances of implantation and figuring out how to improve sperm. If the sperm population can be refined to only those of the highest quality then we can make better embryos. Chemicals in the female tract also affect the sperm’s abil-

ity to ‘swim’, and again to understand effects of interactions with these chemicals across the population many more sperm donors are required.

At the labs in Birmingham the team are also licensed to fertilise human eggs for research, but none of these embryos will go near a uterus, so there is no risk of this donated sperm producing offspring. However, this area of research can give us a better insight into the interactions between sperm and eggs, which

"students could become regular donors getting £25 expenses each time" can help with other areas such as developing new contraceptives.

Research into contraception is in extremely important field, where novel findings may have great impact on less economically developed countries where contraception such as the pill isn’t as readily available or effective. There is also a hope for the development of novel contraceptives to additionally have an antiviral or anti-HIV effect, reducing the numbers of STDs where they are prevalent. The development of male contraceptives are not fool-proof and would not work where the women already have many rights issues over in their own country. It is a big trust issue so “any new method of preventing a pregnancy needs to have the person that it affects the most in control” explains Dr. Kirkman-Brown.

Dr. Kirkman-Brown is aware of key issues that are involved in research and is also recognised as a world expert on genital injury and protection, having taken a key role in preserving fertility in soldiers badly injured during the Afghanistan conflict, for which he was awarded his MBE. Lifestyle and environmental effects can have a big impact on the health of your sperm. Even amongst the student population, being what is seen as “fit and healthy” may not be what is best for the sperm. Dr Kirkman-Brown explains “everything in moderation is best for overall health and for your sperm”, where

Bobjgalindo

excessive gym sessions and the use of some gym supplements may have a detrimental effect on your sperm. Overall, if concerned for your welfare, take sexual health as a priority and everybody should go for regular checks. STDs can have a serious effect on health, and unprotected sex is a big problem among students. Just because there are no symptoms, doesn’t mean there isn’t a disease such as Chlamydia, where it actually damages the testicles and sperm and this cannot be seen with the naked eye. Many STDs can affect fertility, so make sure you check yourself whenever you have put yourself at risk, as a “quick fumble” after FAB isn’t worth damaging your health.

There are many strands of research at any one point that a student donor’s sperm may be a part of. From looking at DNA damage, ability to swim under different conditions to survival rates in the freeze/thaw process of obtaining sperm.

A donor will have an initial appointment where they go through all the necessary information and provide a semen sample

to check what the sperm is like and for which studies it should be used.

Depending on the sample and the research going on at the time, the student can then become a regular or non-regular donor.

The best part for the student population who struggle with money is that once a donor’s sperm is used in research, that person will receive £25 expenses every time they provide sperm to the research.

There is really no reason why you shouldn’t donate, the process is anonymous and you get paid! Every male student’s dream! However, do not use this as a fertility or STD check, the best place for that is still a sexual health clinic. At the donor’s request, any medically relevant information seen as something that would drastically affect health will be passed on to you. A wide range of people are needed for the studies going on, so targeting University of Birmingham students is a great initiative as it is literally just across the road! To find out more, visit www.birmingham.ac.uk/chrs or contact researchdonor@bham.ac.uk.

cial, as beginning treatment sooner is much more effective. Sadly, Parkinson’s is incurable, so earlier management of the disease would improve the quality of a sufferer’s remaining life. Early identification can also help those affected plan how they want to deal with the disease and make them aware of their situation.

The initial results from the study suggest that suspected Parkinson’s could be uncovered by differing VOC patterns using sophisticated drug-screening instruments.

The research also demonstrates that the presence and quantity of VOCs can determine varying types of Parkinson’s disease. This kind of biomarker, an indicator of disease, has been a strong focus for scientists for a long time. Such tests are particularly appealing due to their

non-invasiveness and pain-free manner, whilst also being relatively cheap.

This kind of work into disease detection is not new however, as in March 2013 researchers in Israel and China devised a similar breath test which could diagnose stomach cancer, with work also being done on breath tests for the detection of certain types of lung cancer.

With backing from Parkinson’s UK, a charity supporting the research of Parkinson’s disease, and the University of Cambridge, further development of this technology is highly promising.

Excitingly, scientists could soon arrest Parkinson’s disease through the use of VOCs as potential drug targets, benefiting many sufferers.

Parkinson’s won’t be able to run from the law for much longer!

Breathalyser for Parkinson's

Devon Smith Sci & Tech Writer

Scientists from the Israel Institute of Technology have piloted a new study using a breath test, similar to the ones used by police officers, that investigates alterations in compounds in different types of Parkinson’s. The particles that are exhaled in our breath are called volatile organic compounds or VOCs. Parkinson’s disease is caused by the gradual loss of neurons, affecting various components of the central nervous system (CNS). There are many types of Parkinson’s disease, each sharing similar life-altering symptoms. These symptoms include slowness in movement, rigidity, shaking or tremors.

Currently, Parkinson’s is hard to diagnose with no conclusive tests and misdiagnosis commonly occurring especially during early stages of disease develop-

"volatile organic compounds could detech Parkinson's in our breath" ment. Usually, doctors reach a decision based on the presentation of multiple symptoms, brain scans and running various tests to rule out other diseases.

Unfortunately, this delay in diagnosis leaves patients with the risk of progressing towards advanced Parkinson’s disease, a life sentence. Therefore, earlier identification would be greatly benefi-

12 20th February - 9th March 2015

redbrick.me/tech

Science & Technology Health Special

Amy Williams Interview Amy Thompson finds out more about the Olympic medalist Amy Williams' love for technology and gadgets.

Since winning her Gold medal in the Vancouver Winter Olympics in 2010 for the women’s skeleton, Amy Williams has gone onto various different jobs. Williams has gone from presenting Ski Sunday for the BBC, to being a co-driver for Rally GB and, most recently, becoming a presenter for the Gadget show in 2014. Now after being with the Gadget Show for nearly a year, Williams will be taking part in her first Gadget Show Live, being held at the Birmingham’s NEC this April from the 8th - 12th. We interviewed Williams in advance to ask about her upcoming appearance there.

Firstly the Gadget Show Live is back this April, what can we expect from the show this year?

“It’s very exciting actually. There will be lots of great entertainment, Jason has gone off and brought himself a replica of the car from ‘Back to the Future’ and it’s their anniversary this year so we are going to have that on set they are also going to get hold of the hover board that was in the film.”

“I think the biggest thing with the live show is that the audience is able to participate and get involved. We have got the matrix style bullet slowing down shot equipment time this year. There will be a big circular rig on the ceiling which will have different cameras and the audience will be able to try the visual effect out, so they will be able to freeze a moment in time, but in a 3D way. Also they have got a dance troupe that is coming on, feeding the fish, they will have LED costumes so they will be doing light painting with patterns in the air and they get frozen.

"I'm really looking forward to the Gadget show live, it will be seven years for the show, but it will be the first show for me" There's a DJ drummer, he's like a one man band, he has all this technology that he has built himself with different pro-

grammes and different drums that he can hit which basically mean he can make his own orchestra through the various noises from the drums.”

“Everyone still gets really excited, we still have all the giveaways, one person from each show is going to win £4000 of prizes per show and there are two shows a day. Over the whole week of shows we're giving away over £50,000 worth of prizes. There's a guaranteed winner per show, which is obviously what the Gadget Show is famous for, it will be exciting, I think.”

What are your top fitness gadgets at the moment?

“I think at the moment, fitness-wise, it’s the wearable tech. So you’ve got your 'Fitbit' for example, I think that is kind of the latest. Everyone has got their phone apps so they're able to track and monitor.

The Fitbit's very popular at the moment; it’s got no screen on it, you just need to download everything onto your phone later. I think at the moment people need that kind of motivation and encouragement to get fit, whether its counting their steps or how many calories they've burned or miles they have run. That's at the moment one of the latest wearable tech.”

"...at the moment people need that kind of motivation and encouragement to get fit" Another favourite piece of tech for Williams at the moment are the AfterShokz headphones they work by resting on your cheek bones and use bone conduction technology to enable you to run without headphones in your ears.

“You're able to run but are still able to hear cars going past you and to still be able to hear your music at the same time, it is very clever, cutting edge technology and they are also Bluetooth enabled and wireless as you would expect.”

So do you have any favourite apps that help you keep fit and healthy?

“I just use the Endomondo app, my

friends and I have got it so you can log and track your information. So if you have both been for a run together then you can tag each other and do a silly photo. The app is linked to Facebook and Twitter accounts, but I think it is most important to be able to see how many miles have I ran, what I did last week and track your route with GPS. You can also log on and see what other people have done in your area, which I think is a great community thing now. So you can go “ok that person did this run I’m going to try that one out” because you can see its length and route.

It’s great to be able to see what you’ve done and to be able to log your progress.”

"I don't believe in any of those crazy diets... I think everything within moderation is key" And if you had to pick one gadget that you could not live without what would it be?

“I have actually gone and brought a wicked kettle, it’s called the iKettle, and at the moment I love having my hot drinks and my cups of tea. It is a fancy Bluetooth one, so you can be lying in bed or be in town and you can programme it through your phone, so that in 5 minutes time you can programme the kettle to come on at 9. So you can walk through your front door and the kettles done. It’s a bit different to say a kettle is your favourite gadget, but any kitchen gadgets like the Nutribullet, for smoothies, etc.

All those types of gadgets that I use daily, are helpful and useful, so they are definitely the best.”

Finally do you have any advice for students trying to get healthier?

“Firstly I don’t believe in any of those crazy diets, or anything like that which are going on at the moment and I think everything within moderation is key. I try and eat cleanly and healthily. I think eat-

Duncan Rawlinson

ing is the biggest impact on your life, people who are trying to live healthy cannot just focus on what you are eating or just on exercise, it is a whole rounded and balanced approach.

Also I think it is important to mix things up, you can’t just go for a run every day, your body just adapts to it.

You should mix it up by doing lots of different exercises whether it’s doing gym one day, run the next, swimming or bike or just going to the park with friends.

Make sure you have fun and don’t expect too much at once. Also if you log down your activity, where previously you might not have thought you’d improved, you can now checked back on what you were like, for example, three months ago then you could see you have changed!”

Top 5 Healthy Eating Myths

Ellie Patten explains that if your new year's resolution included any of these tips, maybe it's best you don't stick to them... is always good for you. Now I’m Going gluten free will make you slim1for youFruit not going to tell you fruit is actually bad 3 mer – sorry students – but fruit juices and While some of us could benefit from giving dried fruits are actually very high in sugar. A 250ml glass of orange juice contains about 25g of sugar, while a 250ml can of CocaCola contains 27g of sugar – that’s only 2 more grams! I’m not saying ditch the fruit juice for fizzy drinks, but be careful how much you’re drinking; they're a sugary snack in disguise.

Low fat automatically means 2 healthy Low fat foods can often still contain high amounts of sugar, excess of which is converted to fat in our bodies. Low fat foods can also be low in valuable nutrients and vitamins that our body needs. Sure, cardboard’s low fat, but it’s not going to do your body much good. Look at the other nutrition labels before you buy your food; see what it does offer you, not what it doesn’t.

ourselves a slightly smaller portion of pasta, or less bread, unless you’re gluten intolerant, replacing them with gluten free alternatives may not be the answer. Gluten free white breads tend to contain a similar amount of calories and sugars per slice as an ordinary white bread, and most gluten free breads contain much more fat per slice than a standard loaf. While this doesn’t make it an “unhealthy” food, it’s not as nutritionally beneficial as it claims. Gluten free cakes and biscuits also still contain a lot of sugar, and if you start stifling that craving for carbs by replacing them with chocolate bars, you’d be better off sticking to the bread. veggie is healthier 4out onGoing First of all, this means you’re missing a lot of essential amino acids required for healthy growth and tissue repair. To get

the same amount of protein from vegetarian sources can require a much higher portion, therefore requiring more calories to be consumed to fulfil dietary needs. Vegetarians are also often guilty of substituting sugary foods into their diet to replace meat, as meat leaves you feeling fuller, so vegetarians often find themselves not as full as they should be after meals, resulting in unhealthy snacking. Perhaps incorporate a little lean meat into your meals if you are trying to cut down on fat from meat; it’s a more realistic diet to stick to, and will fill you up so you don’t snack.

5

Fresh food is always better than frozen This totally depends on the food in question and the season! For example, fresh in-season food is usually better than frozen food, as lots of nutrients are likely to be lost in freezing. However, out-of-season vegetables grown in an unnatural environment, and

sprayed with pesticides and artificial fertilisers may not be as good as a frozen, organically grown version. Though this doesn’t mean you can pick up that ready meal – put it back down!

Maybe you would benefit on cutting down on the carbs, eating a more fruit and

"...cardboard's low fat, but it's not going to do your body much good" vegetables, and checking the fat content of your meals. But exaggerated health claims will rarely be the diet you need. Getting healthy is all about eating well-balanced meals and appropriate portion sizes, tweaking your diet in small, manageable ways from different angles of health, not just following one “get slimmer in only one step” approach.

20th February - 9th March 2015

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13

Google Health Website Could Google help the public with self-diagnosis?

Roshni Patel Sci & Tech Editor

It’s said that 1 in 20 Google searches are health related. We’re searching our symptoms, wondering if we’ve contracted something deadly or contagious and are prone to pour through Web MD convincing ourselves that we’re probably dying.

This week Google have unveiled a new health feature to accompany most health related searches, as the company makes its bid to involve itself with our health too.

would help inform consumers, so they can delve into their search results with more focus and clarity.

Although not a substitute for a trip to the doctor, the feature could help relieve

"The new website shows great promise to help patients understand any illnesses and how to stay healthy"

"not a substitute for a trip to the doctor" Developed with doctors, the feature would work much like Google’s other helpful search features; helping to clarify medical conditions without too much jargon. The feature will not only have an easy to understand explanation but will come with suggested home treatments, recommendations and even graphs and analysis of the ages most commonly affected. The idea being that the feature

some of the pressure on family doctors by encouraging and educating the public into treating their own minor illnesses or recommending treatments for major ones.

The initiative has been welcomed by UK doctors as a system that shows great promise to help patients better understand their health and healthcare.

Kate Ter Haar

The feature will roll out to the USA for now and will eventually roll out across the world as healthcare officials unite to tweak and adjust the feature for their regions. The British Medical Association have found there are often stark differences between the health care systems and clinical practices of the USA and United Kingdom, especially considering the profit driven incentive that underpins the USA's private healthcare system.

Check out the latest creature feature online and vote!

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Find our latest technology articles online: www.redbrick.me/tech

14 20th February - 9th March 2015

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Music Live Review: Rae Morris @ Institute Dean Eastmond Music Critic

@DeanVictorr

Following the release of her debut album, Unguarded, Rae Morris hits the road aided with a funky jumpsuit, a double bass and one hell of a voice. Having previously supported Bombay Bicycle Club, Tom Odell and George Ezra, it’s about time Rae claimed an audience of her own. Tonight she did just that.

"'It’s about time Rae claimed an audience of her own. Tonight she did just that.'"

Situated in Birmingham’s 'The Institute', the stage is set with the singer’s name acting as a backdrop for what’s to come. That, or the stage is a shrine for Morris’ talent.

Fryars opened the night with a chilled out set of original songs that eased the audience into the excitement that was to follow. The two-piece band brought a sense of electric to the air. The crowd were thirsty and Fryars quenched them. The band would later return to perform their collaboration, “Cold”, with Rae which has proved popular with fans.

A brief and routine break between support and main act accommodated the atmosphere of anticipation. We were ready. Lights went down and music box tones began, initialising the start of Morris’ opening song: 'Skin'. Like Thumbelina herself, Rae emerged onto stage with a fragile polite-

ness, somewhat humble and completely perfect. She had the crowd wrapped around her fingers from the first note and we loved it.

'Skin' lead into 'Grow', a personal favourite and older song of Rae’s, which provoked awe throughout a crowd apparently awestruck by the talent Rae possesses.

One song led into another, promoting her debut album and promoting it well. A double bass frequently accompanied the set, complementing the songs so much better than a guitar ever could and reverberating off each of the walls that made up the venue. The use of strings reflects Morris’ work with Nico Muhly, an incredibly accomplished composer who helped shaped the sounds of Unguarded; a genre defying and quintessential album for anyone who admires Kate Bush. But seriously, Rae is like a mini Kate Bush who reciprocates the same tones in true 2015 style.

'For You' accentuated the success of Morris' album with a voice that proves to be so stripped back, raw and real. The song was probably the pinnacle of the evening that left me so awe-struck that I could no longer dance along to the piece. Rae took us to church.

Following on, Morris performed Clean Bandit’s 'Up Again' on which she features.

The song proved her versatility; she can go from ballad to dance, delivering one mind -blowing vocal performance after another.

Song after song rolled off and we knew the ending was nigh. To close the show, Rae performed her recent single, 'Under the Shadows', having reached its well-deserved stardom. In a final few minutes of the show, the audience were well and truly alive.

Thank you, Rae, for such an incredible evening.

Single Review: Willow Smith - Cares Matthew Freddura Music Critic

@MatthewFreddura

It's hard to look past the controversy surrounding Willow Smith at the moment and just focus on the music. With a career that started at the age of ten plus the Fresh Prince and the lead singer of metal band Wicked Wisdom for parents, Willow’s musical output was bound to be interesting.

In the past twelve months she has covered everything from Jhene Aiko to King Krule, sampled Justin Timberlake, The XX and Radiohead, and worked with rising stars Ta-ku and SZA. For someone of her age she has a very extensive music taste, clearly exploring the boundaries being pushed by other artists. Since her debut with 2010 super-hit ‘Whip My Hair’, she's had a couple of follow-up singles and was the planned leading role in the upcoming Annie remake. However, the part went to Quvenzhané Wallis because Willow wanted to focus on 'being twelve'.

This withdrawal from projected superstardom is commendable but she hasn't retreated from music altogether. In August of last year she reappeared, posting the track ‘Drowning’ to her Soundcloud, a heart wrenching, stripped back piano ballad which showed off her raw vocals. The subject matter may seem far beyond her experience and a lovelorn ballad may seem a bit contrived coming from a thirteen year old, but her ability as a songwriter and as a vocalist is undeniable. This track was the start of a new era of development in Willow’s career.

By sharing her music straight to her audience, without being overproduced or over-thought, we get to witness her development first-hand, watching Willow grow and experiment with different genres; per-

haps even creating new ones. Whereas other artists may be hesitant to share music before redrafting it, Willow’s strong interaction with social media epitomises her representation of today’s youth, and shows that she has the power to be the artist of her generation – a true icon.

Her latest EP, III, was released on Halloween (her fourteenth birthday) and accompanying it is the stand-alone single ‘Cares’. Her EP features collaborations with Brooklyn rapper Kitty Cash and southern songstress SZA, showcasing her knowledge of the changing industry by choosing exactly the right people to work with to demonstrate her versatility. ‘Cares’ is a great example of this, shedding her overtly R&B status and sounding more like a lo-fi indie demo. She successfully blends together the sounds of early noughties teen pop-punk with R&B ballad refrains in the discussion of her usual topics of love, loss and the banality of fame.

"'Willow is definitely worth keeping an eye on.'"

Although recently she's been taking over headlines for her interviews with her brother rather than her musical output, she should still be taken seriously. Alongside Kanye West anointing himself God and Britney Spears circa 2008, comments like 'I mean, time for me, I can make it go slow or fast, however I please, and that’s how I know it doesn’t exist' don’t seem all that out-of-place. ‘Cares’ may not be her best song to date, but Willow is definitely worth keeping an eye on.

Just look past her crazier side. After all, there truly is a thin line between madness and genius.

redbrick.me/music

20th February - 9th March 2015

15

Tweet of the Week: @SamSmithWorld: "Be Real. Be You."

Single Review: Young Fathers Rain or Shine Conrad Duncan Music Critic

@ConradDuncan

Just over three months after winning the Mercury Prize, Young Fathers are back with a new single and news of a brilliantly titled new album: White Men Are Black Men Too. The change this time round is slight but noticeable, splicing together a warped reimagining of the riff from Metronomy’s ‘The Look’ with a repetitive driving beat, yet the effect is as strong as usual. The Edinburgh based three-piece have always been a band that’s most comfortable when weaving together disparate influences and they remain defiantly genreless here. To call ‘Rain or Shine’ hip-hop would be overly simplistic; to call it R&B or pop would seem downright foolish.

If the Mercury Prize has given the band any chance of commercial success then the opportunity seems to have been deliberately rejected. This doesn’t sound like the work of a band looking for a breakthrough. Instead it shows them reworking their sound yet again and pushing themselves into new territory.

That shouldn’t come as any surprise though; Young Fathers’ victory back in October was the most exciting decision from the Mercury panel since Dizzee Rascal introduced Middle England to Grime back in 2003.

"the band have a knack for melody even in their most aggressive songs" What separates Young Fathers from similar bands has always been their knack for melody even in their most aggressive songs and ‘Rain or Shine’ continues this trend. It may take a few listens to get your head around but this new single shows that Young Fathers are planning something big for 2015.

Preview: Slow Club @ The Sunflower Lounge Matt Moody Music Editor

Single Review: Rihanna, Kanye West, Paul McCartney - FourFiveSeconds Hannah Coles Music Editor

@HannahMColes

Besides perplexing the younger generations of Rihanna and Kanye fans (‘Paul McCartney will be so famous now Kanye has got hold of him’), this unlikely trio have managed to produce a single that blends the talents of all three collaborators into one highly listenable R&B inspired track.

McCartney offers a simple guitar backing that works with Rihanna’s distinctively strong vocal and this acoustic rawness further complements Kanye’s typically autotuned verse. The lyrics almost pertain to a blues style lament on the well-worn subjects of trying to make it home, as well as being unlucky in love. Mixed with heavy hints of relationship troubles, ‘FourFiveSeconds’ sounds fresh whilst borrowing so many integral elements from well known genres.

For this very reason, some may argue that this single is just a watered down version of each artist; diluting what makes each of them distinct.

Kanye is not as typically aggressive, Rihanna is less overtly sexual and McCartney is silent (which will come as a relief to many).

"Some might argue that this is just a watered down version of each artist" Despite this potential drawback, fans of this track will surely delight in Rihanna’s performance after her short break from the charts and 'FourFiveSeconds’ is a one off that has certainly succeeded in capturing our attention.

Single Review: Laura Marling - False Hope Matt Moody Music Editor

@mattmoody17

Already fiercely independent when she arrived on the scene at sixteen years old, Laura Marling has become something of a feminist icon. All the clues leading up to new album Short Movie's release - a move to Los Angeles, a short haircut and ‘doing a Dylan’ with the introduction of electric guitars - pointed to a continuation of Marling’s transformation from acoustic songstress to badass rock-star. The reality is considerably different.

For other British artists of her generation, LA brought inspiration in the form of motorbikes, leather jackets and sunglasses indoors, but on ‘False Hope’, Marling sings of urban isolation in the city of angels.

Lyrics like ‘is it still okay that I don’t know how to be alone’ are a far cry from the

untouchable self-assuredness on previous tracks like ‘Master Hunter’. Even the switch to electric guitars isn’t as much of a change as you might have expected - although going electric has opened up the range of sounds Marling can physically make with a guitar, her playing style is much the same as it would be on an acoustic guitar. As Dylan himself proved, going electric doesn’t have to mean turning into Brian May. ‘False Hope’ is particularly impressive on a vocal level: following verses delivered in Marling’s signature lilting style, the chorus is a bit of a surprise, alternating between swooping falsetto and passages that are almost spoken in style. It’s another example of her durability as a songwriter, and bodes well for the new album.

"For some, LA brought inspiration in the form of motorbikes and leather jackets"

@mattmoody17

Like all great bands, Slow Club have mastered the art of evolution. From the rapid fire indie-pop of their debut via the subtle maturing of their sound on sophomore album Paradise, last year saw the release of their critically-acclaimed third record Complete Surrender, which slowed things down and let Rebecca Taylor's show-stopping voice take centre stage over a sound that took cues from Motown and northern soul.

Following a hectic 2014 that saw them wow the UK festival circuit (including a standout show at Latitude Festival) and tour the United States with another rising star, Nick Mulvey, Slow Club are leaving their native Sheffield to hit the road again and kick off the new year as they mean to go on.

After some big performances on last year's tour - including a support slot for Jamie T at London's massive Alexandra Palace near the end of the year - 2015 may well be the year the band start migrating to bigger venues as headliners. The possible chance to see them in the cosy surroundings of Birmingham's Sunflower Lounge is definitely not one to be missed, particularly as they perform the intimate material of last year's record.

16 20th February- 9th March 2015

redbrick.me/culture

Culture

A Summer in the South Dean Eastmond takes a look at one of the latest productions on at The REP For one night only, local theatre legend, Siân Phillips, CBE, teamed up with Robert Powell for a night of Parisian pleasures. Having previously seen Phillips in “The Importance of Being Earnest” and acknowledging that both actors have a well decorated history (with Powell previously being part of Holby City) it was predictable that whatever was to come, was to be of high quality. “A Summer in the South” explored the language and literature of 19th and early 20th century French Novelist and Poet, Colette.

In theory, the evening was basically glo-

notic blur of RP accents and eloquence. A patchworked collation of Colette’s poetry and prose, woven together with ideologies of love, family, homosexuality and stories of spiders, wine and fat women. Though best

"stories passed throuh the auidence like old photographs..."

known for her novel Gigi, the evening made sure to dabble in all of Colette’s work; somewhat of a French documentation of early 20th century life. Phillips easily painted images into the minds of a truly enticed audience in a landscape of life and love and loss and everything in between. The extracts used were timeless, shaded with Debussy

rified spoken word, reverberated in a hyp-

"A Summer in the South reminded me why I love words so much."

and lesbian “desires and affairs”.

In a “voluptuous process of tracking down words”, stories passed through the audience like old photographs, trapping countless memories in an immortalised display of literature and theatre. Dialogue played on the sexual ambiguity and unfathomable sentiment, mixed with the eternal character and legitimacy of homosexuality through the heteronormative conditions of the 19th and 20th century. This comple-

mented well the themes of vitality, childhood and Colette’s mother’s love for gardening. Single lines or passages would leave an almost sold out show paralysed in awe.

“A Summer in the South” reminded me why I loved words so much. In a splintered series of Colette’s vast and impressive portfolio, in comparison to eloquently told biographic stories, “A Summer in the South” was surprisingly and pleasantly good.

The Liz and Dick Show Lucy Moundfield Culture Editor gives us an insight into the latest witty prouction at the Mac Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton were the original showbiz couple. From the beginnings of their tempestuous relationship on the set of Cleopatra, through their wedding to which the rights were sold to a magazine, to the (nowadays clichéd) ending in alcoholism and separation, they were constantly in the public eye. People couldn’t get enough of them.

"The Burton we see is a romantic with a restless intellect..."

The Liz and Dick Show, performed last weekend at the mac Birmingham, is an intimate, two hand performance that paints a portrait of their relationship during the rehearsal of the film Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf, for which Taylor (played

by Lydia Poole,) but not Burton (Ken McConnel,) won an Oscar.

The play opens with a soliloquy from Burton foreshadowing the events to come in allegoricalfashion. When I interviewed the cast before the performance, McConnel seemed fascinated by the intellectual side of Burton, which contrasted with the action

movie star he had been familiar with growing up. This comes across both in Dhanil Ali’s script and in the performance given

by McConnel.

The Burton we see is a romantic with a restless intellect, offering an endless stream of literary references, for whom the banality (as he saw it) of the Hollywood screen acting he was engaged in was a source of tremendous angst.

Liz Taylor is also contradictory but in a different way. In public she is confident, handling interviews charmingly and diplomatically, but also flying into rages at the slightest provocation. But when she is left alone with the audience, she displays an

emotional vulnerability and deep insecurity – she wants to get her lines right, and for Burton to love her.The play is built around

"Perhaps the Mac's marketing people need a kick up the arse." how these two characters interact, where the dynamic is of oscillation between romantic displays of affection and increasingly vindictive bickering. It results in many moments of hilarity. Jokes abound, and some of them poke fun at theatre itself: “get me a drink,” “you have a drink,” “it’s apple juice!” But we know it’s only a matter of time before it all ends in tears.

It’s disappointing that so few people turned up. We were in the 80-person Hexagon theatre in the mac and the audience consisted of 8 people including myself, my boyfriend and two writers from BurnFM! Given the intimacy of the play this made things a little awkward (for me) at first, but the two actors gave a commanding and nuanced performance that allowed us into their private world of love,

jealousy and anger. Perhaps the mac’s marketing people need a kick up the arse. The actors soldiered on regardless, despite ticket sales probably not covering the journey from Liverpool and back.

It’s a really enjoyable play, and it’s a story we can all relate to. It doesn’t require prior knowledge of the characters or Who’s

Afraid of Virigina Woolf. It is a fairlytale gone wrong that highlights the fragility of love and how easily it can be lost. It may not have ended happily but the audience understood that these two actors were much more than a tabloid spectacle, they were vulnerable human beings.

If you find yourself in Oxford next weekend then it’s definitely worth a watch!

Birmingham's Hidden Gem The Highbury Threatre Centre at Sutton Coldfield is the perfect place to escape from the stresses of university life!

Reasonably priced, show casing fun filled and interesting productions and most importantly; staffed by the loveliest people you'll meet! The Highbury Theatre Centre is the place to head for a fantastic evenings entertainment!

Find out more at: www. highburytheatre. co.uk/

redbrick.me/culture

20th Feburary - 9th March 2015

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On Campus: The Bramall Comedy Night Matt Bullin tells us why Ranganathan steals the show at the Bramall Comedy Night Compering for the evening was Irishman Andrew Ryan, using his cheeky and likeable persona to great effect, using his limited time to try out some new material, as well as some of his clearly tried and tested stuff.

His role was to warm up the audience, between acts and to ensure everyone was enjoying themselves, and largely he did just that. Although he was slightly overfamiliar with one family sat in the front row, which was amusing to begin with but soon became forced and almost cringe-worthy as he carried it on far too long. However, after the break his performance improved signifi-

"It was definitely not Norris' finest night" cantly with less crowd interaction and more of his own material, despite one new anecdote falling flat, though he immediately got the crowd back onside admitting that it was a new gag and he’d probably never try it again.

Ben Norris was the first act to grace the

ity I had previously witnessed, as he reeled off a series of shocking jokes, ranging from masturbation, to viciously damning Gogglebox , to suggesting the Royal family should be executed to improve tourism in the UK. Though these did shock the audience and save his set, it was definitely not Norris’ finest night.

But it was Romesh Ranganathan who headlined the night and rightly so, as the former teacher managed to coax applause out of the crowd, succeeding where Norris and Ryan had ultimately failed. His set began with a series of anecdotes about his Bramall stage, and I was excited to see him.

Last year I had seen Norris supporting Ed Byrne at the Symphony Hall, and on that occasion he outshone Byrne himself, with a range of risqué gags and genuinely hilarious interactions with the crows. But he did not quite deliver at the Bramall, seeming not wholly committed to the gig as he quickly seemed to run out of material, relying on cheap one liners and poking fun at the audience. Though there were glints of the qual-

"... this gave light to his cynical, moody but always humorous persona." young family, which may have been suited to an older demographic, but were amusing all the same, especially when giving a

"Raganathan sole the show"" lengthy explanation on why he sometimes “wouldn’t mind if he got hurt” (in reference to his toddler son). After that he moved on to the age old comedy gimmick of racial stereotyping. Ranganathan played up his Sri Lankan descent, and refreshingly his jokes were original and at times, hilarious.

Particularly when speaking of his parents who now scold him for not speaking Tamil, when it was them who failed to teach him the language of Sri Lanka, as well as giving him the first name of 'Jonathon’ in the hope it would help him gain employment in the UK. But the main premise of his set was about Ranganathan admitting that he is a “bit of a pr**k”, and this gave light to his cynical, moody but always humorous persona. He stole the show, proving why he is in such high demand for television panel shows. A wholly unique and original voice on the circuit, who deserves every plaudit he receives.

Oppenheimer at Stratford upon-Avon Dean Eastmond was left more than impressed by the RSC "mindblowing' procution Located in Shakespeare’s homeland, the Royal Shakespeare Company performs Oppenheimer in Stratford upon-Avon. Based on a true story, the production visualises the race to make the atomic bomb in 1940’s America. A soliloquised opening, performed

by Professor Oppenheimer (or “Offy”), held onto the town’s Shakespearean past in the Swan theatre, and encapsulative of the bard’s legacy.

"The script was simply living breathing poetry."

Oppenheimer is truly and rightfully deserving of every good review it has received. The script was simply living,

"Words could not materialise the theatrical beauty of such a show..." breathing poetry. Words could not materialise the theatrical beauty of such a show, nor could I even begin to fathom the talent behind the cast. Scenes would oh so eloquently slip into one another and back again from white lighted office scenes to be-bop booze parties to bomb sites. If there’s something the Royal Shakespeare Company knows, it’s how to impressively use time, manner and space in a production.

The stage itself was merely a blank can-

vas, in which the cast would drop down to and scribble out countless diagrams, equations and formulas before switching back to

"Scenes would balance between comedy and tragedy" previous scenes. Impressive. Scenes would balance between comedy and tragedy, with the Act 2 opening with a hilarious immersion into the audience, followed by the bone chilling conversations of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. What was so great about Morton-Smith’s Oppenheimer was its ability to serve as an education piece towards atomic bomb production, fascist Europe

and communist movements, while still centralising around themes of self, relationships and family. The performance accommodated one of the most powerful scenes I've seen in modern theatre that reflected the realism and stark sting of the Second World War. In a gripping and awe-striking closing to the show with Oppenheimer exempting disgust at what he achieved, the lights struck down and I found myself cussing to myself in pure appreciation to the beauty of his words. As previously mentioned; poetry.

Oppenheimer left us shell shocked. Five stars. Oppenheimer is available until 7 March at The Swan theatre in Straford upon-Avon (trust me, if you’re going to see anything this year, make sure it’s this).

Take a coach trip to see Oppenheimer from the University, find out more here: http://www.rsc. org.uk/support-us/key/students.aspx

One of the West Midlands' best and most under-appreciated art galleries is the destination for the next visit by art-loving students from the University's Barber Association later this month. The New Art Gallery, Walsall contains paintings, drawings prints and drawings by the likes of Monet, Degas, Van Gogh and Epstein, and also hosts major exhibitions by leading contemporary artists. The Barber Association will be heading there on the afternoon of Wednesday 25 February for an exclusive free introductory talk about the collection and shows by a member of the gallery's staff.

Other events planned by the society in the next few months include a speed workshop in the Barber Institute in March, Galleries Night and the Art Bus in May and a glamorous summer party in the Barber in Juneon Friday.

For more information about the visit, the Barber Association, benefits of membership and how to join, see the Barber website at http://barber.org.uk/the-barber-association/

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redbrick.me/food

20th February - 9th March 2015

Food

Is It All Going Downhill For McDonalds?

Following reports of the reduction in sales and appalling food discoveries for some of it's establishments, we question whether after all these years the popularity of McDonalds is finally beginning to diminish diminishing by 4.8% in the final quarter of 2014.

Steve Easterbrook, who will take up his new position as British CEO from March 1st has been credited with turning around the company’s fortunes within the UK and held the position in 2006. His time at McDonald’s was interrupted by a

Jennifer Cook Food Writer

The start of 2015 marked a decline in profits for fast-food giant McDonalds, with sales figures falling by 1.8% last month. The drop follows a recent outbreak of negative publicity in Asia.

"Profits have fallen for the first time in 12 years, CEO Donald Thompson will be stepping down from his role"

"With reports revealing that customers have found pieces of broken plastic and teeth in their meals!"

three year hiatus that saw him take up the position of CEO at both Pizza Express and Wagamama.

Although the company’s fortunes are faring slightly better within Europe, with a 0.5% percent gain year after year in January, the future for the fast food chain appears uncertain as trends reflect a shift in consumer expectations and growing demand for organic, healthier food.

This damaging news comes on the back of last year’s food safety scandal, which saw an undercover TV crew expose the repackaging of expired and contaminated meat at the company’s Shanghai Husi factory. The report impacted several of the company’s major markets with sales in Asia, Middle East and Africa

Sensational Health-Promoting Smoothies From fresh detoxes to sweet indulgences, Food Editor Joanna Yorke divulges her top recipe secrets for students looking to switch to a healthier lifestyle Joanna Yorke

This indulgent smoothie is a perfect way to de-stress whilst satisfying sweet tooth cravings.

THE ENERGY SMOOTHIE

Food Editor John Lewis categorised smoothie blenders as one of the most popular Christmas gifts this year, supporting the growing interest in healthy and organic lifestyles. Packed with fruit and vegetables, smoothies provide an easy way to nourish your body with essential nutrients.

Berry Blast Smoothie Serves 2:

Here are three tasty smoothie recipes that are perfect for your everyday student needs.

THE INDULGENT SMOOTHIE

-1/2 cup of blueberries -1/2 cup of blackberries -1/2 cup of cherries -1 banana -1 cup of almond milk -1 teaspoon of honey -1 tablespoon of flax seeds -A dash of cinnamon

Chocolate Peanut Butter Smoothie Serves 2:

Blender Save Or Splurge?

If you don't already have a smoothie blender I personally recommend the these two gadget options to make your smoothies both nutritious and insanely delicious!

Blend all of the ingredients together until smooth and creamy.

-2 tablespoons of cocoa powder -3 tablespoons of peanut butter -1 cup of semi-skimmed milk -1 frozen banana, pre-sliced -1/2 cup of fat free greek yoghurt -1 tablespoon of honey -1/2 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract -3 to 4 ice cubes

Flax seeds offer a great source of omega-3 fats which are a great natural way of boosting your energy levels. Perfect for that needed energy boost around deadline day!

Combine all ingredients in a blender until smooth and then add ice cubes according to desired thickness.

Serves 2:

THE DETOX SMOOTHIE Green Monster Smoothie

-1/2 cup fresh grapefruit juice -1 cup of kale

-1 large sweet apple, cored and roughly chopped -1 cup of chopped cucumber -1/2 cup of chopped celery -1/4 cup of frozen mango -1/8 cup of fresh mint leaves -3 to 4 ice cubes Juice half of a large red grapefruit and add to the blender. Then add all the other ingredients and blend on a high setting until super smooth. Add water if necessary to make it easier to blend.

Rich in vitamin C and fibre, this ‘green monster’ smoothie strengthens your immune system whilst improving your digestive health. Great for when you are feeling sluggish after a few too many takeaways!

STUDENT SPLURGE

STUDENT SAVE

Nutribullet, (Currys) "Greek £99.99 yoghurt and

Breville Blend Active, £24.99 (Currys)

banana provide healthy of This blenderais known for itsamount ability to pulverise fruit, vegetables even nuts and potassium whichand has been seeds. Said to be the Duchess of Cambridge’s proven to relieve signs of anxi‘secret weapon’ to staying in shape, it is no wonder thestress" sales of the Nutribullet have ety and

soared with one being sold every 30 seconds on Black Friday. A clear must have but with a hefty price tag of £99.99, it is definitely one for the regular juicer.

A highly convenient budget blender with its unique selling point being that you blend the ingredients in the same flask you drink from. Perfect for the on the go drinker that wants a quick breakfast smoothie with minimal washing up. With its smaller price tag, it is perfect for students.

redbrick.me/food

20th February - 9th March 2015

19

Recipe of the Fortnight: Creamy Smoked Avocado Pasta Take a look at our recipes on www.redbrick.me/food/recipes

Top 5 Food Blogs to Bookmark Food Writer Sophie Neal has trawled the web to find the best food blogs to inspire every student's food fantasies.

Sophie Neal Food Writer

Deliciously Ella www.deliciouslyella.com Ella Woodward was diagnosed with Postural Tachycardia Syndrome in 2011, resulting in tiredness, chronic pain and headaches. When traditional medicine didn’t work for her, she researched holistic therapies and over-night she changed her lifestyle. Cutting out high sugar, saturated fats, dairy and milk has allowed to regain control over her illness.

Her blog documents her food journey and is full of nourishing, healthy recipes for everyone. Ella demonstrates how a ‘free-from’ lifestyle doesn’t have to be boring, with filling meals to tasty desserts..

A Dash Of Ginger www.adashofginger.co.uk Kirsty is from Edinburgh and simply likes sharing her recipes with the world. Who wouldn’t want to make and eat food all day? You’ll find some inspiring meals on this blog that will suit a student budget.

There are all the recipes you need from breakfast to dinner and they are sure to shake up your weekly menu a bit, as well as impress your mum!

Best for: Hungry students who don’t want to eat any more pasta.

Top With Cinammon www.topwithcinnamon.com If the photography on this blog isn’t enoug to make you hungry then the recipes will surely make your stomach rumble! Izy is 19 and going to university to study nutrition.

Whilst on her gap year, she’s providing us with some incredible looking recipes to try.

There’s a lot of cake and pudding recipes on here mixed in with some healthier options (breakfast burritos anyone?) so there is something for everyone to try. You’ll also find a handy set of tutorials to teach you some cooking basics!

Eat Like A Girl www.eatlikeagirl.com This blog is full of hearty recipes along with a good handful of travel posts from Niamh’s travels. If you’re looking for traditional recipes with a bit of a foreign twist, this is the blog for you. You’ll find a selection of indulgent desserts and seasonal salads to see you through the year. She's also been listed as one of Britain's 500 most influential people according to the Sunday Times in 2014.

Best for: Foodies with a case of wanderlust.

Best for: Beginners and dessert-lovers in denial.

Best for: Healthy-eaters and free-from dieters looking for something new to try.

The Londoner www.thelondoner.me A lifestyle and personal style blog written

by Rosie, this is a gorgeous blog to read.

The photography is enough to make you want to get up and move to London and her outfit posts will give you wardrobe envy.

Although not exclusively a food blog, Rosie often posts some useful restaurant reviews as well as scrummy (though not entirely guilt-free) recipes to tickle you tastebuds.

Best for: Indulgent eaters and fashionistas.

(Photo credit: Niamh, eatlikeagirl.com)

(Photo credit: Kirsty, adashofginger.co.uk) (Photo credit: Food52.com)

So for those of you creative types why not have a go with some of these fab recipes, especially if you're finding your weekly meal routines a bit tedious, food blogs are the best places to search for culinary inspiration

Vegetarian And Vegan Eating At It's Best The Warehouse Cafe: a superb restaurant situated in the heart of Digbeth and guaranteed to satisfy the hunger cravings of vegetarians and meat-lovers alike Georgia Priestley Food Writer

As a devoted carnivore, the thought of going to a vegetarian restaurant fills me with a sense of apprehensive disappointment. Previous experiences of 'vegetarian burgers' which turn out to be a limp mushroom on a bun may have something to do with this.

Situated in the heart of Digbeth's industrial past, the cafe retains elements of an

"The Warehouse Cafe, however, suprassed all expectations elevating vegetarian cuisine to new exciting heights" old factory whilst introducing bright colours to create an inviting and quirky environment. It's a simple place, light and bright to allow complete focus on the food.

The service is equally bright; you'll be greeted by delightful staff who are eager to serve yet are not over-invasive. They know you're here to eat and not to befriend a waiter, however charming he may be.

The food is what makes this cafe special. The fresh British produce is combined with Asian and Mexican flavours to create bold, exciting food.

We started with the trio of hummus and the sweetcorn and aubergine fritters. Each hummus was rich in flavour and delectably creamy. The caramelized onion hummus was particularly good, transforming the humble onion into an intensely sweet and moreish mouthful. The fritters were equally moreish; super crisp with a punch of chilli and coriander.

We ordered a selection of mains, including the zingy Bulgar Salad and the 'Fish and Chips'; battered halloumi with a punchy wasabi pea puree. The real stars of the show however were the Burgers. I have never had a vegetarian burger as good.

Crisp on the outside and soft in the middle, the burgers had a nutty, herby flavour that I've never encountered before. The Piri-Piri Burger is complimented perfectly with

will set you back around £35 and it's worth every penny. Aside from the very reasonable prices, the charming staff and the delightfully quirky décor, the best thing about the cafe is the fact the vegetarian food isn't trying to substitute meat. Rather than attempting to transform vegetables into weird meat-like substances, the ingredients are elevated using bold and exotic

"The caramelized onion hummus transformed the humble onion into an intensely sweet and moreish mouthful" sweet grilled mango, and the Mexicana by hot sharp salsa and rich cheese. Their love of the environment is clearly reflected in the food. You can tell every ingredient has been treated with respect, and tastes all the better for it.

A visit to The Warehouse Cafe is a must for all food lovers, vegetarians and meat eaters alike. A three-course meal for two

(Photo credit: Tom Adams)

flavours to make vegetarian food exciting and absolutely delicious. Though I won't be giving up meat any time soon, I'll definitely be returning here again.

In addition, if you are in possession of an Independent Birmingham discount card you can receive 10% off your bill when you eat here.

20 20th February - 9th March 2015

redbrick.me/television

Television

Who You Gonna Call? Better Call Saul

Matthew McCrory reviews the debut of the anticpated spin off to Breaking Bad. Does it live up to its predecessor?

Better Call Saul will appeal to most viewers due to its spin-off relationship with the critically acclaimed super-hit Breaking Bad. With a focus on one of the show’s most popular characters and numerous references to the original programme, it’s likely that most fans of the original methamphetamine-masterpiece will be booking an appointment with Saul Goodman.

"It’s the character of Saul that provides the most intrigue" In fact, the first episode of the series barely introduces us to Saul as we remember him, and instead introduces us to James McGill, the roots behind the suit.

Bob Odenkirk reprises his fantastic role as the "criminal" lawyer and aims to portray the life of Saul Goodman, both before and after the events of Breaking Bad. The cinematography may seem familiar, with the first episode being directed

by Breaking Bad creator Vince Gilligan and filmed at the same location in Albuquerque, New Mexico. With some signature features of the show, such as the non-chronological narrative structure being re-used, it may be difficult for fans of Breaking Bad to disassociate Better Call Saul from the original series and regard it as a holistic work on its own right.

In fact, the main disadvantage of the show is in the context of its conception. I think most viewers will agree that Saul Goodman has some huge shoes to fill, as each episode will doubtlessly being compared to its parentage. Can a prequel of the highest rated TV show of all time possibly live up to the hype? From the opening two episodes, it’s still hard to tell.

It’s the character of Saul that provides the most intrigue into the first episode of Better Call Saul. Bob Odenkirk portrays the man with all of the confidence and coolness that the show's predecessor envisioned, but with a streak of innocence and naivety that we have not seen before. This is a Saul Goodman who represents a group

of teenagers who won’t be represented by anyone else. Sure, he’ll complain about the amount of money he receives for doing so, but this is a guy whose moral compass points a little bit higher than Albuquerque.

The first episode begins with a flash forward in Saul Goodman’s life, showing the character’s future after the cataclysmic conclusion of Breaking Bad. It seems strange that we’re going to spend such a large amount of time studying a character whilst knowing how he’s going to end up, both during and following the Breaking Bad timeline.

"the decision for the show to have a much darker edge works to the benefit of both the series and the character" It may seem a little strange for a character who, to an extent, acted as the comedic release in Breaking Bad to be given his own show. At first, Better Call Saul was

NCIS Births Another Spin Off TV Critic Roshni Patel reports on the latest spin off from NCIS heading to New Orleans.

As NCIS enters its 12th season, executive producers have thought its time for another office somewhere new, like New Orleans perhaps.

It started as last season’s field trip, a two part episode, where Agent Gibbs and the team headed to the city of endless music, food and partying. But now the NCIS: New Orleans office is open for business, with the network commissioning a full season of the drama spin off.

Led by Agent Dwayne Pride (Scott Bakula, Quantum Leap and Star Trek: Enterprise), NCIS New Orleans features the signature NCIS humour, a variety of cases and a range of unique locations. But it all feels a lot like déjà vu of NCIS Los Angeles, from its informal office to the laid back attire which reflects each of the characters' personality. In a city alive with character, colour, music and food; NCIS New Orleans is like slipping into a comfy

pair of slippers, where the faces have all changed but it still feels the same. With new faces such as the native easygoing Special Agent Christopher LaSalle (Lucas Black, The Fast and the Furious), the new Special Agent in town, Merri Brody (Zoe McLellan, Dirty Sexy Money) and assisted by the always charismatic coroner Dr Loretta Wade (CCH Pounder, Warehouse 13).

Despite the promise of more crossovers from the head NCIS office, there’s no guarantee that NCIS: New Orleans will make it past its first year. Its fate lies in the viewers' hands - do we need another pair of comfy slippers? Or have the producers made a mistake by not changing up the recipe?

Judge for yourself, Friday nights at 9pm on Channel 5.

Tweet us your opinions @RedbrickTV

conceived as a half hour comedy show.

However, the decision for the show to have a much darker edge works to the benefit of both the series and the character. Just watch the courtroom scene near the beginning of the episode. You’ll see the tension mount as a desperate character fights for the freedom of others. Watching the pressure build and then release is one of the great moments that the episode provides.

Better Call Saul is well worth the watch.

It provides not only an extension of the Breaking Bad universe, but also an interesting insight into the development of convincing characters and powerful cinematography. It will definitely be viewed by fans of Breaking Bad with enthusiasm and a portion of familiarity. However, to those unfamiliar with the show’s predecessor, a recommendation comes slightly more tentatively. On the merits of Odenkirk’s brilliant performance and the incredible universe created by Gilligan, Better Call Saul provides its new viewers with an intriguing watch, and gives Breaking Bad addicts a much anticipated next fix.

20th February - 9th March 2015

redbrick.me/television

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TV Quote of the Week: Saul Goodman knows his place in your life: Saul: "I'm the guy on your speed dial right after your weed dealer".

Redbrick Interviews: The Producer Of Banana

TV Critic Dean Eastmond interviews Emily Feller, producer of Banana, Channel 4's latest show focusing on LGBTQ relationships.

The TV shows explore what a relationship is in the 21st century and what it is to be part of an LGBT community.

After the usual introductions and greetings, we begin by talking about Banana’s production: Redbrick: So how was it making the show?

Emily Feller: It was just a wonderful, brilliant experience. The scripts were in a really good shape and the team were great to work with. Overall a really, really nice experience and we all had so much fun.

RB: Did you work closely with the producers of Cucumber or were they two separate entities?

EF: No, we were completely as one. We spoke daily at least, or more regularly depending on how busy the productions were. Matt Stevens [producer of Cucumber] was a fantastic person to work with and a great person to turn to. This was my first main production and it was good to have him on standby. The show wouldn’t have worked without a great relationship between the both of us.

"The series makes a concerted effort to stick to the facts" RB: What’s the feedback been like over the past few weeks of the show being aired?

EF: I’m not really on social media so I didn’t see the feedback on Twitter et cetera, but all feedback I’ve heard has been great, really positive.

RB: Do you feel the show is challenging LGBT representation?

EF: I think that since “Queer as Folk”,

LGBT representation has been changing and I think we’re helping along that way. There’s obviously still a way to go.

RB: Do you feel it needs to be challenged?

EF: I think that it’s always good to have a representation of everybody, especially if it’s been lacking. What I loved about making Banana is that the stories aren’t really led by the characters being gay or lesbian. They’re universal stories of people that age regardless of sexuality.

RB: Do you feel the series is having or will have an impact?

EF: I don’t know about perception, but it’s definitely giving opportunities for those characters to be on television more. We’re

finally moving on from coming out stories.

RB: What formed the idea of a three part series?

EF: Russell [T Davis] always wanted to do it. Two reasons mainly. The first being a commercial reason, that three channels all being prepared from marketing and pushing them as single units. The second being creatively. While writing Cucumber, he wasn’t able to represent all voices and stories he wanted to tell , such as the younger and more female voices in Banana. Tofu creates more stories and more faces being able to be told. Three series, in which each series has its own identity.

RB: Do you feel that LGBT members have poor stereotypes within the media?

EF: I wouldn’t say poor. Sometimes limited, but soaps and other mainstream dramas have made a real effort to involve LGBT characters. Cucumber, Banana and Tofu have been more productive and inclusive.

RB: Having worked in Emmerdale – what’s the jump like?

EF: I’d like to say it’s massive, it’s all quite massive. I loved Emmerdale; it’s been the most amazing rounded experience. With Emmerdale we were doing 16-20 pages a day, but with Banana we were doing 3-5.

It’s amazing having that extra time. It’s nice to be able to spend a little bit longer on the production.

Banana continues Thursdays, 10pm on E4.

I Survived A Zombie Apocalypse

TV Editor Shannon Carey discusses another zombie show to start on BBC Three- but what makes this one different?

Have you ever had one of those moments when you’re alone in the dark – whether it is walking back home late or having to run downstairs to go to the toilet in the middle of the night – and your mind inadvertently switches to thoughts of being followed by some supernatural being? And even though you know it’s completely irrational, you feel the heart-pulsating urge to run to the safety of your house?

Well, imagine a whole reality show based on that exact feeling, because that’s exactly what BBC3’s new gameshow I Survived A Zombie Apocalypse is. Hosted by everyone’s favourite Radio 1 DJ Greg James, and with a premise based six months into a zombie outbreak, the show places a range of contestants into an abandoned shopping village where they will have to work together to survive - or risk becoming fresh meat for a growing population of flesh-hungry zombies.

"it has taken the idea of a post-apolcalypitic, zombified world and taken it on a new platform" The beauty of I Survived A Zombie Apocalypse is that it has taken the idea of a post-apocalyptic, zombified world and taken it onto a new platform – you don’t exactly get many zombie reality shows after all. And by using the concept of ‘the zombie outbreak’ that has become a large part of popular culture in recent years (we’re looking at you, Shaun of the Dead) the show is set to fascinate audiences: it seems we all get a secret pleasure from

our own fear and the adrenaline that comes alongside it. Yes, I Survived A Zombie Apocalypse may just be a game, but that doesn’t mean it can’t feel real. We’ve all had those moments where we wonder what would happen if our world did descend into zombie-led chaos, and what measures we would take if we had to fight for our own survival: and this gameshow allows us to watch this fantasy happening in front of our eyes, which is something we can’t help but want to see. Host Greg sums it up best him-

self: 'This is a zombie show like you’ve never seen before. The best way to describe it is a cross between Big Brother, The Crystal Maze and Shaun of The Dead. Bits of it will make you laugh, bits will make you shout at the contestant's stupidity and bits of it will make you genuinely terrified.

I'm stuck in the apocalypse too keeping a watchful but distant eye over the contestants. I loved making it.'

If you, like most of us, have your own fascination with fear, then I Survived A

Zombie Apocalypse is definitely for you: you can watch vicariously as contestants fight against murdering mutants in a bid to stay alive, and feel that same blood-pumping adrenaline: and if it gets too scary, you’ll be even more glad to be watching it from the comfort of your own warm, safe home.

Catch the show on Sundays, 10pm, BBC Three.

Tweet us your opinions @RedbrickTV

22 20th February - 9th March 2015

redbrick.me/lifestyle

Life & Style

Update Your Style For Spring Life&Style Writer Daisy Holden rounds up the best new season additions to your wardrobe.

A-Line Skirt

Chunky Roll Neck New Look £19.99

Topshop £22.00

The Seventies vibe was in full swing on the spring/summer catwalks from Gucci to Saint Laurent. This trend is all about textures - suede and fur more specifically - so dig out your fur gilets to layer over the top! If you're feeling brave, invest in a suede skirt and wear with thick tights whilst it is still cold.

Moving away from the oversized wool coats and fur-lined parkas, the coat of choice this season is the duster coat. A duster coat can be described a loosely shaped coat from mac-like fabric. This khaki one from Topshop perfectly combines this trend with the military trend which was springing up at most shows. This coat can be thrown over any outfit, to instantly update your look.

Topshop £79.00

Duster Coat

Contrasted against the slim fit polo-neck, chunky roll-necks have cropped up on the street-style pages of fashion magazines. The more loosely fitted structure can be teamed with skinny jeans, or culottes as the weather warms up.

Spring Trends

Following on from the seventies trend, denim was a huge hit on the catwalks - with it cropping up at Fendi for the first time. Dresses, skirts, embellished jeans - you name it, it was denim! Opt for a denim jacket or sweatshirt as seen by Chloe or Burberry. This classic one from ZARA is ideal.

ZARA £29.99

Denim

Age Appropriate?

Life&Style Writer Laura-Beth Green gives her verdict on Madonna's recent risqué red carpet appearences.

Madonna is often causing a stir with her risqué outfits. Not that long ago in 2008 she sparked controversy with her choice to wear a nude bodice (such that she gave the impression of being naked) in her video with Justin Timberlake.

At the age of 56 Madonna is showing no sign of making more reserved wardrobe choices, unlike other celebrities around her age such as Julianne Moore. Her outfit for the Grammy’s, a pink and black lace Givenchy corset dress certainly got all the cameras flashing. The dress was not only short, but also provocatively accessorized with long black gloves and boots, as well as a veiled hat and fishnet tights one might expect a twenty five year old to wear.

The singer was also flaunting her curvaceous but toned shape, showing her cleavage and at one point in the evening her bottom.

"Some feel that at 56 Madonna should really start dressing her age" It should perhaps come as no surprise the outfit has provoked mixed reactions considering the variety of Madonna’s wardrobe choices over the years. Some feel that at 56 Madonna should really start dressing

her age, like Moore (her junior by two years) who wore a floor length Tom Ford dress to the BAFTAs. On the other hand most consider Madonna to have an enviable figure and why

"Madonna still managed to steal the limelight." shouldn't she show it off?

Madonna still managed to steal the limelight. She competes with her contemporaries musically so is it unthinkable that she would compete with them in the fashion stakes?

Indeed, we don’t tell the rock stars of the seventies and eighties it is time to put down their music and put on their slippers. Certainly Madonna has been challenging expectations for most of her career and it looks as if she will continue to do so. It may elicit a sigh from us and a 'what has she worn now?' when we turn on the TV in the morning, but even if someone else, such as Rihanna, had worn an outfit like this there would be no less fuss.

Although it is the outfit that has sparked such a reaction, the focus seems to be on the appropriateness of wearing such a dress at her age. Public opinion is ultimately divided but at 56 Madonna is eliciting more disapproving frowns and cringes than she is gasps of envy at her couture. Maybe it is about time she considered something a little less north of the knee.

redbrick.me/lifestyle

20th February - 9th March 2015

Lydia Hicklin

5 Of The Best...

People To Follow On Instagram

Nivea Regenerating Night Cream: £4.07

Life&Style Writer Carys Allott

I had never used moisturiser on my face before as it tends to feel too thick and stuffy on my face; the idea of sleeping in one was even worse. However, I am so glad I tried this product It is light and airy; I don’t feel like my skin can’t breathe when I put it on. It has a lovely scent and leaves my skin feeling wonderfully soft, not only directly after putting it on, but the next morning also. After using this product for over a month, I have reduced redness and a lovely hydrated T-Zone. A definite must if you’re the type of girl who wants to look after her skin, but doesn’t have time or money to buy a ton of products.

1. Fearne Cotton Fearne just about covers everything. This includes cute family photos, healthy meals, fashion and even photos of her cat – all of this intertwined with some great celebrity selfies! (@fearnecotton4)

Budget Beauty Buys Life&Style Writer

2. Victoria Beckham It would be rude not to. Stunning shoes, dresses, and handbags - and Mr Beckham might pop up every now and again if you’re lucky. (@victoriabeckham) 3. Kim Kardashian Kendall, Kylie and all of the Kardashians are fun to follow. Sometimes we can’t believe them, other times we wish we were them, but at the end of the day that’s why we love them! However, if there has to be one Queen Bee around here then Kim K wins! (@kimkardashian) 4. Dougie Poynter Dougie’s account is a bit of a laugh, hence the user name. It features music, fashion, travel and you can really see his sense of humour. It certainly brightens the Insta feed up and makes a nice change to all these ‘insta girls’. (@idougahole) 5. Harry Styles Whether you’re a shameless 1D fan (or a closet fan) Harry Styles is definitely worth a follow. It features pictures of him and the rest of the boys on tour but you can also see what he’s up to on his time off stage. (@harrystyles)

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Fierce

Felicity Jones She has been dominating the red carpet over the past few weeks, looking unbelievably jaw droppingly gorgeous every time.

The Long Coat One journey onto campus is enough to conclude that the long, simple coat is this winter’s fashion must. No matter what you’re wearing, a long coat finishes any winter look as well as saving you from the seemingly ever dropping temperature.

Brunch The new most important meal of the day (and definitely the most Instagramable).

Tip: Forget the fry up, avocado is the 2015 breakfast update.

50 Shades of Blah

Unlikely Fashion Icon FKA Twigs With the release of her LP1 album in 2014, FKA Twigs has bent genre and defied the conventions of both electronica and R&B. Her vocals are angelic, almost eerie coupled with the use of synths, contrasted with heavy beats and percussion; her sound is truly original. So how does this harmonious mishmash of genre and deviation from mainstream musical expectations translate onto FKA Twigs herself? Her features alone embody the ethereal quality her music possesses, with large doe-like eyes and endearingly gapped teeth framed by an almost circular pout she emulates an innocent girlish visage reminiscent of a delicate china doll. Again FKA Twigs defies her own features with her unique style - she is a pleasant contradiction.

Upon first glance the most notable aspect of her unique style is her hair, which is often braided, big, and combed artfully down to her forehead, sporting intricate swirls and sometimes even letters and words. FKA Twigs uses her own hair as a form of expression helping to achieve her distinct appearance.

She can be seen in transparent, almost gauzy body suits that hug her petite frame.

The suggestive wardrobe choices she makes within her music videos (see Papi Pacify) are provocative and show an edgy aptness for the bondage aesthetic. With appearances in Vogue, and V Magazine, FKA Twigs’ style has naturally caught the eye of notorious industries; within her editorial shoots, she combines softer, rather delicate pieces such as fur stoles and antique lacy material with vintage accessories like sunhats and over-sized leather biker jackets.

Her off-duty style is certainly as eclectic as her editorial shoots and stage performances, for example - an over-sized Guerlain coat can be stylistically thrown together with a vintage floral shirt and 60’s Gucci boots. She manages to effortlessly pull off combinations of mismatched textures and patterns to a unique yet imaginative effect.

Her bravery in term of fusing couture with vintage is truly individual. Her half Jamaican, English and Spanish heritage adds complexity to the variety of cultures she adopts within her own style. This can be seen through the assortment of antique, occult jewellery that often resemble ancient artefacts. The pieces FKA Twigs adorns herself with are extravagant, and would be entirely over the top on anyone else. Who else can pull off Aztec face painting to the 2015 Brit Awards with such self-assurance? FKA Twigs’ style and fashion choices are both couture, grungy, vintage yet futuristic. She is an odd icon to have, yet icon she is and evidently will continue to be, as her style is ever-evolving; constantly surprising close-watchers at every turn.

By Zahraa-Bibi Vindhani

So maybe it made some of us a bit more experimental in the bedroom this Valentines Day, but our opinion of the film is that you're better off sticking with the book... and that's saying something.

Lent Giving up chocolate for forty days is unfortunately not going to give you the body of a Victoria’s Secret model. Try giving up something that is actually going to make your life better, long lie ins or dare I say it social media?

Sky High Heels It’s the rise of the kitten heel for 2015.

Girls, tottering around in those skyscrapers is a thing of the past. A classy update to your shoe department that will have your ankles and heels thanking you after a night out.

By Hebe Hatton & Lily Rayson

Finished

24 20th February - 9th March 2015

redbrick.me/travel

Travel

Spotlight On: Chicago Travel Editor, Sara Tryon, gives us her advice for exploring America's Windy City...

Although New York’s population is almost three times bigger than Chicago’s, America’s second city is not to be overlooked. Many Chicagoans feel a certain kind of smugness at their choice of city, feeling it much more inhabitable than its larger counterparts. The American Mid-West’s reputation for friendliness is certainly present in the people of Chicago, and their welcoming and helpful nature makes it a wonderful city to explore.

Chicago is a city defined by its neighbourhoods. They are all distinct and different in their own ways, yet merge together to create the patchwork of the city. Chicago sits on Lake Michigan which constitutes the East side of the city and serves as the perfect tool for navigation. Because Chicago’s winters are so harsh, they like to make the most of their beautiful summer weather by getting outside as much as possible. As a result, there is an abundance of outdoor events across the city all summer long. From free film screenings and Shakespeare performances in neighbourhood parks, to ‘Free Music Mondays’ in Millennium Park in the heart of the city. Millennium Park is a beautiful place to enjoy the sunshine, and look out for the annual ‘Broadway in Chicago’ which takes place every summer to showcase the coming year’s theatre.

If by chance you do get a rainy day, Chicago has a host of fantastic museums. Museum Campus in the south of the city centre is the location of the Field Museum of Natural History, the Shedd Aquarium and the Adler Planetarium.

Museum Campus jets out into Lake Michigan and a walk down to the lakefront is a must for beautiful views of the city. From the lakefront at Museum Campus you’ll clearly be able to see Navy Pier which is the biggest tourist attraction in the Mid-West. The historic pier is a favourite for families in the summer and is the perfect place to explore the lakefront from. It is the mid-point of the Lakefront Trail, an 18 mile cycle and pedestrian path that runs alongside Lake Michigan. It goes right to the northern and southern extremes of Chicago and provides stunning views, at times making it hard to believe you’re still in a huge American city.

Hire a bike from Navy Pier and cycle north towards Lincoln Park for a safe and easy way to see Chicago. This will also take you past miles of beaches, including North Avenue beach which is a favourite amongst students in the summer. Whilst in Lincoln Park, the free zoo is the perfect

place to catch your breath. Lincoln Park is home to DePaul University and consequently many of its students, but it is a far cry from Selly Oak. Wide leafy avenues and beautiful old houses give the neighbourhood a distinctly welcoming feel making it the perfect place for an evening drink or a morning brunch.

Regardless of your prior knowledge of art, the Art Institute is well worth a visit. With more than 300,000 works of art, including large collections from Edward Hopper and Monet, there is a wide range of art from across the world and across the ages. The stunning building stands in the centre of the city and so is easily accessible. If you’re looking for a more modern focus, the Museum of Contemporary Art houses works produced since 1945. This is located near Water Tower Place, which is also the start point of Chicago’s Magnificent Mile. Running down Michigan Avenue, this is the heart of Chicago’s shopping, with everything from high-end to high-street. Even if you aren’t looking to take advantage of the exchange rate, a walk down the bustling avenue is an experience not to be missed. The views from Michigan Avenue Bridge of the Chicago River are stunning and allow you to take in the architecture that has come to define Chicago.

The Chicago Architecture Foundation is a Chicago institution, with a range of tours to help you fully explore the city. The walking tours are a great way to see specific areas at a reasonable price, but if you’re willing to stretch your budget slightly then the boat tours are a great way to spend a sunny day. Taking you down the Chicago River and out to Lake Michigan you’ll be able to appreciate the array of architecture and history that is entrenched in the city.

Chicago’s public transport system centres around buses and the elevated train, commonly referred to as the ‘L’.

Working much like London’s underground network but above ground, the trains offer a distinctive feel to Chicago.

They all centre in a loop in the middle of the city, creating an area known simply as The Loop. The arches of the tracks and the familiar sound of trains are at the heart of Chicago and the train is a great way to get around whilst also seeing the city.

Try to use the public transport system to explore some of Chicago’s diverse neighbourhoods. Wicker Park has been affectionately coined as the ‘hipster’ neighbourhood of

Chicago, and wandering around it’s easy to see why. Vintage clothes shops, record stores and second-hand bookshops line the high street and sit alongside bustling bars and independent cafes.

During the summer, street festivals take place every weekend. From food-specific to neighbourhood-focused festivals, Chicagoans love an excuse to put on some local live music and get outside. However, for many young Chicagoans the music festivals that take over the city-centre parks are undoubtedly a highlight. Last year, Lollapalooza saw headliners including Eminem, Outkast and Arctic Monkeys whilst Pitchfork Festival saw the likes of Kendrick Lamar and Beck. Tickets for these often sell out in advance though, so try and get hold of them as soon as possible. For an alternative take on the festival season be sure to try ‘Taste of Chicago’, the city’s largest food festival. Spanning four days in July, the festival has free entry and showcases a huge variety of different foods, of course including deep-dish pizza and Chicago-style hotdogs.

To see the city from a height, you can scale Chicago’s two tallest buildings. The John Hancock Center stands in the middle of the city on Michigan Avenue and many believe it has the best views. However, my advice would be to visit the Willis Tower. This is located in the centre of Chicago’s financial district and was formally called the Sears Tower. At 108 storeys high, it was the tallest building in the world when it was completed in 1973. It offers breath-taking views of all sides of Chicago and the naturally flat nature of Illinois’ landscape allows you to see for miles.

If you can, visit the tower just before sunset. Not only will you experience beautiful sights, but you will also be able to take in the view during the daytime and the nighttime. As with any attraction, try to book tickets in advance to avoid long queues. The most distinguishing feature of the Willis Tower is undoubtedly ‘The Ledge’. These glass boxes extend about four feet out of the side of the building over South Wacker Drive. Not for the faint-hearted, but certainly an experience to get your heart racing.

Chicago is a beautiful and unique city, incorporating lakefront views and sunny beaches with culture and diversity. There is a distinctive character to the city; it seems quietly confident in its own ability to stand against the larger American cities, and it certainly can.

A Wee Good Weekend in Scotland Rocco Campanaro provides his ‘Top 3 Tips’ for a short break in Scotland...

Serenity, tranquillity, kilts, haggis, snow-capped landscapes and viewpoints that leave you in awe. Scotland really makes you appreciate the natural wonders of our country that are so easy to get to without the large price tag!

Take a coach tour for the authentic Scottish experience Upon arriving in Edinburgh on Friday night, my friends and I booked a day coach tour across the Highlands, Inverness, Glencoe and Loch Ness for the Saturday. This is a fantastic and easy way to explore Scotland beyond the popular cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow and acquire a real flavour for life in rural Scotland. With regular pit stops and refreshment breaks, the coach takes you to the best views of the Scottish Highlands with sights that will leave you gasping in amazement.

Of course, a visit and sail across the world’s mostfamous and mysterious loch – Loch Ness – was a must.

Before you ask, we did not see Nessie – although a statue depicting the creature can be seen near the gift shop.

Try the cuisine Don’t be put off by what you hear about haggis - give it a go! True, it’s made of every animal organ you can think of, but it sure is tasty and perfect for a very chilly weekend in February. Along with your meal, why not tickle your tastebuds with a can of Irn-Bru, a fizzy soft drink that resembles Lucozade.

Of course, no trip to Scotland is complete without a taste of the renowned deep-fried Mars bars available in most Chippies. Not a fan of Mars Bars? They also do Snickers, Kit Kat’s, and during Easter, deep-fried cream eggs can be found.

Go to a few pubs The Scottish pubs and inns will fascinate you with their music, dancing and camaraderie. I felt like I was watching a movie sitting in my seat; they're nothing like English pubs at all. Enjoy a creamy, refreshing Caledonian Scottish beer with your friends and take in as much as possible.

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20th February - 9th March 2015

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Unveiling the beauty of Iran Travel writer Nadhirah Syalin illustrates how this Persian land offers something truly different for travellers...

When you think of Iran, going for a holiday there probably wouldn’t be one of your first thoughts, while the words ‘nuclear, sanctions and revolution’ might pop into your head. Let’s face it, they are not particularly inviting words for a potential visitor. Well cast away your doubts and qualms because I’m here to tell you why Iran will completely win you over with its beauty, as it did for me.

Officially known as the Islamic Republic of Iran, the country is located in Western Asia and was once commonly referred to as Persia. Although situated in the Middle East region, don’t make the mistake of assuming that their people are synonymous to Arabs, as Iranians are Persians with their own culture and language. Due to it’s large geographical distribution, the climate in Iran varies according to where you are in the country, although it can be generally categorised to experience long, dry summers and short, cool winters. The country that is home to the largest population of Shia Muslims in the world observes the Islamic rule explicitly in their daily lives. Modest attire according to the Islamic religion is an expected norm in Iran. A tip for the ladies is to have a headscarf in hand as you’re expected to don it as soon as you leave the flight, while men should just leave the shorts at home. It is common in Iran for the headscarf to be loosely draped with wisps of hair framing the face. Iranian women are very stylish, and it is a myth that Iranian women mostly wear dark colours. However, don’t fret too much about the dress code, especially when you’re a foreigner, as the maximum penalty would probably be a polite request for you to cover up or change.

Tehran, the capital of Iran, is pretty much like every capital city in the world, with its skyscrapers, cars and congestion, as well as being the easiest port of entry for many. The beauty that is unique to Iran starts as you travel down south from Tehran to the city of Esfahan. The grandeur of the city is especially emphasised through the beautiful Imam Square, which is also listed as one of UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites. The Royal Mosque, Ali Qapu Palace and the Mosque of Sheikh Lotfollah are among the exquisite Islamic architectures framing the square, while lovely Persian gardens thrive in every corner. Shopping is a must in Esfahan as the Grand Bazaar would spoil you with its large choice of souvenirs, trinkets and Iranian candies. A note for shoppers is to always have cash handy, as credit card transactions are extremely rare in Iran due to international sanctions on its banking and financial system.

Besides that, be prepared to receive thick wads of cash when you exchange money due to the weak Iranian Rial.

The conversion is roughly 41,000 Rial for every £1. The 33 Arch Bridge and the Khaju Bridge are also worth visiting while in Esfahan. Stroll across the two bridges in the pleasant weather and see locals picnicking almost anywhere possible. If you’re nice and curious enough, someone might just invite you to taste some of their food.

If sightseeing and shopping is too mild to satisfy the adrenaline junkies out there, Iran has something more to offer. Just less than two hours away by road from Tehran is the Alborz mountain range which houses the Dizin ski resort. The journey there is filled with scenic views, while the steep and narrow roads up the mountain provide slight bursts of adrenaline before even reaching the ski slopes.

The benefit of skiing in Dizin is the cheaper price and smaller crowd compared to the more commercialised and

famous ski resorts around the world. This makes the place seem a lot more untouched and peaceful, while the natural ski slopes are optimised to suit different abilities. Due to the high altitude of Dizin, the ski season is from December to May, which is slightly longer than some European ski resorts. For those who might prefer a less chilly environment, Iran has a long coastline that opens up to the Caspian Sea, the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman. The sandy beaches of the Caspian Sea open up to wide open steppes, thickly forested foothills, with the bare peaks of the Alborz mountain range in the distance, making it a picturesque destination. The tropical summer and mild winters make it a holiday getaway for locals and foreigners alike.

In the Persian Gulf, Kish Island is another popular holiday destination, especially among locals. The Kish International Airport facilitates the movement of people in and out of the country, with affordable flights from Iran’s capital cities. Massive projects have been undertaken by the government to encourage tourism and foreign investments in Kish, making it relatively different from the rest of Iran.

There are no visa requirements to enter Kish Island which might incentivise those dreading the hassle of obtaining it.

As a result, it is common for some to fly from Dubai to the island for a short trip to get a small taste of Iran. Being a free trade zone, Kish Island is a consumer’s paradise with its many shopping malls, fancy eateries and luxurious resorts. It is also in Kish Island where the Islamic rule is perceived to be more relaxed.

Food is heavenly in Iran, so prepare to potentially pile on some pounds. But trust me, it is worth it. From the succulent kebabs to their tasty stews, meat lovers will find themselves tantalised. The Iranian rice by itself is really good and is commonly cooked with saffron; dubbed the most expensive spice in the world or the gold of spices. If cooking is your thing, you might want to buy some from the market to experiment with it back home and dazzle your guests, as the price of saffron in Iran is cheaper than many parts of the world. It is a worthwhile investment to get an English speaking local guide when in Iran as they will be able to explain the culture and history of Iran. Besides that, they will be equipped with local knowledge of the best restaurants and shops. As English isn’t a widely used language in the daily lives of Iranians, having a guide would allow you to explore Iran more efficiently. Due to its massive inflation, and lower living costs compared to the West, don’t worry about going off budget as it is still affordable to travel with a guide and stay at decent hotels.

As you travel around Iran, you will notice how soft spoken and obliging the people can be, although they can be reasonably shy too.

The improving international relations between Iran and the rest of the world, under the rule of its more diplomatic president, Hassan Rouhani, is pushing Iran onto the list of top holiday destinations. Similarly, the growing awareness of Iran’s beauty is a further reason why travellers are becoming more intrigued by the country. Don’t let unreasonable thoughts put you off from vising Iran, as contrary to some beliefs, never have I once felt unsafe while travelling in Iran. While further promoting tourism, getting a visa into Iran is now becoming easier, plus there are plans for the British embassy to reopen in Iran as well. So, what are you waiting for? Put Iran on your travel agenda!

24 hours in... Belfast

Claire Lynch explains why Northern Ireland's capital should never be overlooked...

How to get there The journey isn’t as difficult as you might think, as both Flybe and Easyjet fly from Birmingham daily. Flight time is around 40 minutes and tickets cost approximately £60-70 return.

What to do It's true that the city has seen some turbulent times in the past although in recent years massive regeneration has taken place turning Belfast into a vibrant hub of activity. The newly developed dockland area is home to The Titanic Experience, an educational and emotive insight into one of the world's worst maritime disasters. The Titanic Studios, who make the highly acclaimed Game of Thrones series, are also located here, as well as the iconic shipbuilding Harland and Wolfe cranes. Take a trip to the Ulster Museum (free of charge) where you can take in exhibitions and information about the city's long and complicated past, in a digestible and interesting way.

If it's the recent history you're most interested in then a ride in one of the famous Black Cab Tours is a must, as is a stroll along the Falls and Shankill roads to view the many striking and poignant murals which artistically capture moments throughout 'The Troubles'.

Take time to relax in the beautiful Botanical Gardens which are located next to the grounds of Queen's University, or browse the wares of St George's Market and become accustomed to the distinctive Northern Irish accent.

Where to eat and drink University Quarter is home to many quaint and quirky cafes such as Connor's, Maggie Mays and Common Grounds. For an evening meal head to the Cathedral Quarter or try Slim's Kitchen on the Lisburn Road for a healthy alternative. Pubs, as you guessed, are plentiful, with many of them hosting traditional live Irish music sessions. The Crown Bar, The Duke of York, Lavery's and Filthy McNastys are all worth paying a visit.

Insider’s tip If you can linger longer, it is well worth making a trip to the North Coast to experience some of its spectacular scenery.

Here you will find the Giant's Causeway, Carrick-a-rede Rope Bridge and the Bushmills Distillery, as well as some of the country's most beautiful beaches.

26 20th Febuary - 9th March 2015

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Film

Focus on: Marvel Universe Critic Katie Manzi discusses Spider-Man's introduction into the Marvel Cinematic Universe...

Review:

Jupiter Ascending

Details Release date: 6th Feb 2015 Director: The Wachowskis Cast: Channing Tatum, Mila Kunis, Eddie Redmayne Running time: 127 minutes IMDB rating: 6.0

««««« Vafa Motamedi Critic

Spiderman has been returned to Marvel!

Cheers went out across the nerd globe when it was announced earlier this week that Sony Pictures and Marvel Studios had reached a deal over the famous superhero. For those unaware, back before Marvel was making any of its own movies, it sold the movie rights for several of its superheroes to Sony.

That means only Sony could ever make any movies about those superheroes, even though they still technically belong to Marvel. Spiderman and the X-Men were the most notable sell-offs in this original deal.

Flash forward to the present, and Marvel is finally getting Spiderman back to a degree.

Spiderman is getting his own reboot movie and a large role in Captain America 3. Is this as wonderful as fans have hoped for, or is Spiderman a giant catastrophe waiting to wreck the Marvel Cinematic Universe?

"Do audiences really want another Spiderman reboot? There have been five Spiderman movies since 2002..."

First, Sony still owns Spidey. Although the new Spiderman movie will take place within the Marvel Universe, it will still be made by Sony. The Sony that managed to screw up the last two Spiderman film series', even with such massive talent as Andrew Garfield as their lead man. Marvel execs will have a large say in what happens, but ultimately it is still not theirs. How this will translate into a quality film is questionable.

Secondly, do audiences really want another Spiderman reboot? There have been five Spiderman movies since 2002. As one anonymous internet user eloquently put it, 'If they make another Spiderman origins

story I will shoot Uncle Ben myself'. How many times can you possibly tell the same story in such a short time period? We have gone through this twice already with Spiderman, is anyone really interested in seeing it again?

"These are not the comic books, and movies and comics cannot work in the same way."

Third, Spiderman is getting in the way of Captain America. Hear me out on this one.

Captain America: Civil War is based off the “Civil War” plotline from the comics, of which Spiderman plays a huge role.

Spiderman now being in the film should be a great thing right? Wrong. These are not the comic books, and movies and comics cannot work in the same way. Captain America 3 is part of the Captain America franchise, and should therefore focus on Captain America.

The third instalment to the franchise now includes Iron Man, Black Widow, Falcon, Winter Soldier, AND Spiderman. It is turn-

"If they make another Spiderman origins story I will shoot Uncle Ben myself." ing into another Avengers, with so many characters that no one character gets the focus they deserve. In a Captain America movie, where many fans were hoping for a film focused on the relationship between Steve Rogers and his frenemy Bucky Barnes, this is a massive disappointment.

Which leads into my next point about

Spidey being in Civil War: the script was already written. The directors of the film already had found a way to do Civil War without Spiderman, and in a way that gave more focus to Captain America and the Winter Soldier. Now the directors, Anthony and Joe Russo, have to rewrite the entire thing to cram Spiderman into the plot.

Whether a good movie can come out of this late change to the script is yet to be seen.

Marvel is known for alienating strong directive talent in the past for being too heavyhanded with those director’s creations and forcing them to make changes. Let us hope the same does not happen for this pair of directors who brought us the excellence that was Captain America: The Winter Soldier.

"Pushing back these films to make way for another Spiderman movie has irritated fans..."

Lastly, something that is more annoying than detrimental, the new Spiderman movie is pushing many other Marvel films back by months. Arguably Marvel’s two most anticipated films, Captain Marvel and Black Panther are now pushed back till 2018, after Avengers: Infinity War Part I. Thor: Ragnarok has now been moved to the end of 2017 as opposed to the middle, and Inhumans will not be seen on screens until 2019.

Pushing back these films to make way for another Spiderman movie has irritated fans of all the different franchises.

Does Spiderman have the potential to be an excellent addition to Marvel’s Cinematic Universe? Of course, but for now many fans are not convinced. In fact, they are extremely concerned that the web slinger is not only going to bomb, but take down another Marvel franchise with him.

Jupiter Ascending isn't very good. The latest film from the Wachowskis is a space opera, yet possesses all the weaknesses inherent to that genre and next to none of its charms. The plot is a load of old tosh involving a war over earth between a bunch of space Rothschild siblings whose deceased mother (and queen) has been reincarnated as cleaning lady Mila Kunis.

They want to kill her, space wolf-man Channing Tatum tries to save her and then things start to blow up. The action scenes are a series of incoherently-edited messes that are made all the worse by a complete lack of interest in the characters.

For much of the first 45 minutes the audience is kept in the dark about the motivation of the villains and this leads to a lack of weight to any of the action. How are we meant to care about this endless fight scene when we don't even know what is being fought for? The dialogue scenes are even worse, filled to the brim with mind-numbing exposition and confusing technobabble... and Sean Bean talking about how bees love Mila Kunis's character because they recognise royalty.

He knows this because he is half bee. This is in the film.

The film's real problem lies in its identity crisis. Does it want to be enjoyable camp like Flash Gordon or a hard-hitting sci-fi epic like Dune? Of course there is no reason why it can't be both, but the filmmakers never manage to reconcile the opposing tones, leaving a film that is too dull to be fun and too silly to be taken seriously. The idea that this film could have been even longer than it already is chills the blood.

Kunis and Tatum are giving it their all but are held back by their boring characters. Thank god then for Eddie Redmayne whose performance as the main antagonist rivals that of Ian McDiarmid's in Revenge of The Sith for its gloriously hammy scenery chomping.

In the end, Jupiter Ascending is less a case of a reach exceeding its grasp but a reach that doesn't even know what it's grasping for. All looks nice though.

redbrick.me/film

20th Febuary - 9th March 2015

27

Film News Gurnesha Bola Critic

Despite hordes of couples racing to cinemas to spend their Valentine’s with Christian Grey and co, the fate of director Sam TaylorJohnson’s future involvement in upcoming sequels remains a 'grey' area. Two future sequels have been green-lit by studios to be adapted from the remainder of E.L.James’ best-selling trilogy but there is yet to be any confirmation that Taylor-Johnson will be returning to direct.

The superhero universe continues to expand, signing Gina Carano to appear in the upcoming Deadpool movie. The ex-MMA fighter will join Ryan Reynolds in the film as Angel Dust. Carano has already proved her actionstar potential in the likes of The Fast and the Furious series, as well as in Steven Soderbergh’s hugely underrated thriller, Haywire. The film is scheduled for release in February 2016.

Review: The Interview Critic Tom Swinford reviews the latest film from Franco and Rogen...

Details Release date: 6th Feb 2015 Director: Evan Goldberg, Seth Rogen Cast: James Franco, Seth Rogen, Randall Park Running time: 112 minutes IMDB rating: 6.9

tantly agree to the proposition of assassinating Kim. Here's the controversy: the movie inspired a public battle between Sony Pictures and cyber terrorists who threatened to target American theatres if they showed it.

And while Sony originally cancelled the movie's Dec. 25 release, it became available to stream online on Christmas Eve and played at select theatres on Christmas Day. The film's controversy lies on its subject although not on the content of the film itself, which is a problem as many will not look beyond the controversial plot to see if the film is worth discussion. If one scrutinises The Interview's plot, it is partially an 'irresponsable depiction' of the problems North Korea faces as a totalitarian state.

Tom Swinford

"If you're a fan of Rogen/ Franco humour then you will be a fan of this film..."

The Interview is one of the most (if not the most) talked-about films of the decade. But with The Interview finally released in cinemas we can now ask the question, is it a great film that will be continued to be talked about for years to come? Or is it just a gimmicky film that will fall into cinematic obscurity?

The Interview is directed by Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg (following the spectacular This is The End). An action comedy starring Seth Rogen (Bad Neighbours, This is The End) and James Franco (The Spiderman trilogy, 127 Hours), Rogen plays Aaron Rapaport the manager of the talk show 'Skylark Tonight' in which Franco’s Dave Skylark interviews celebrities about personal topics.

After Dave and his crew celebrate their 1,000th episode, they discover that North Korean leader Kim Jong Un (Randall Park) is a fan of the show prompting the show's producer Aaron Rapoport to arrange an interview. The two then get forced to/reluc-

But I disagree, this is where the laughs are (depending if you have a cruel and sometimes 'dark' sense of humour). One good aspect of the film is that it can hardly be labelled as American propaganda. While Rogen, Franco and Goldberg’s stances are clearly anti-North Korean government, the duo don't exactly wave the American flag high. The film throws numerous hits in the way of its own country, including the ridiculousness of the media and news (celebrity gossip), and people's dependence on it. It also criticises the USA’s homophobia and sexism (whilst also making jokes of these subjects) through highly ridiculous yet highly amusing scenes such as a cameo from Eminem and a scene involving fictional Agent Lacey (Lizzy Caplan).

The overall idea of the plot is fresh and hilarious just by saying 'Seth Rogen and James Franco are forced by the CIA to assassinate Kim Jong Un'. But is this fresh and funny idea played to its limits? The answer is no. In fact The Interview is hardly

««««« Critic

the most consistently amusing film of the Rogen/Franco collection. It is certainly the most politically audacious though. Was the performance of the cast as fresh as the plot?

Unfortunately, Rogen's was not. Here, Rogen plays a similar and all-too-familiar character to those he portrays in other

"The duo don't exactly wave the American flag..."

Rogen/Franco films Pineapple Express and This is The End. This dries the laughs up a little as you feel that you’ve seen it all before. Franco’s Skylark on the other hand, along with his relationship with Kim Jong Un, is where the movie shines. He creates a terrible yet hilarious persona, a parody of the ridiculousness of American talk shows and our reliance on celebrity gossip as 'news'. Kim Jong Un often feels like a play on Team America’s parody than an authentic creation for the film, with his lines and his relationship with Dave Skylark bringing the biggest laughs in the cinema.

Yes, on occasion the movie comes off as tactless and tasteless (due to its sexism, slight homophobia and anti-government stance) but this is what Rogen/Goldberg films are all about. In the end The Interview must be judged on its greatness as a comedy, and did I laugh? Yes. But sometimes the laughs were forced, relying on the relationship that you already have with the actors prior to seeing the film, although the audience laughed just as much as I did.

If you’re a fan of Rogen/Franco humour then you will again be a fan of this film, despite it being less funny than their past comedic exploits. Rogen and Franco are extremely likeable in a film in which witty stoner shtick is often pulled off, but if you are expecting a fresh film with new laughs and unforgettable characters that live up to the incredibly high hype, then you may be disappointed. The Interview is, unfortunately, more gimmick, less great.

This past week saw another awards show being ticked off the list in the run up to the Academy Awards. The Writers Guild of America Awards took place on Valentine’s Day, hosting simultaneous ceremonies in Los Angeles and New York. All eyes were on the Best Original Screenplay category as all five nominees are also Oscar-nominated; on the night it was frontrunner The Grand Budapest Hotel that swept up the prize; whilst The Imitation Game took away the award for Best Adapted Screenplay.

News of an adaptation of the ridiculously successful video game Assassin’s Creed reached us a couple of years ago but the last few days have brought us more news.

Filming beings in the autumn with Ubisoft CEO confirming a 21st December 2016 release. To put the icing on the proverbial cake, Marion Cotillard has joined the project and will be reunited with leading man Michael Fassbender (the pair will next be seen together in Justin Kurzel’s Macbeth).

28 20th February - 9th March 2015

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Sport

Defiant Sherwood Hungry for Villa Success Sports Editor Will Robey was at Villa Park for Tim Sherwood's first press conference as Aston Villa Manager Will Robey Sports Editor

From the moment Tim Sherwood confidently strode into his first press conference as Aston Villa Manager, there was a certain air of optimism which swept through the crowded media pack before him. This was a man who is visibly excited about the challenge that lay before him and his new side, but also one who is clearly buoyant to be back involved in the game he loves. Sherwood confessed that it already felt very different to his time at Tottenham, insisting that he was no longer the 'supply-teacher': "I'm the Headmaster now". Before insisting that, when required, he is willing to be brutal in his assessment of his players: "One thing I can guarantee, if I'm going to be guilty of something it will be being honest." Asked if he would ever repeat his infamous post match interview, lambasting his Tottenham players after a 4-0 defeat to Chelsea, Sherwood jokingly replied "watch this space".

Honesty and positive thinking. It's these two characteristics which Sherwood believes will prove pivotal as he tries to drag Aston Villa away from the relegation zone. With 13 games remaining, his Villa side lacking confidence, the former Tottenham man recognises the enormity

"With 13 games remaining, his Villa side lacking confidence, the former Tottenham man recognises the enormity of the challenge at hand" of the challenge at hand. However, he remains determined that his side "will be fine" and believes that six wins from the remaining thirteen games, will be more than enough to secure their Premier League status. He was keen to stress that his focus remains only on the short term, and that his mindset will not look beyond the end of the season. Aston Villa's Chief Executive Tom Fox confirmed the former Blackburn midfielder had signed a contract until the Summer of 2018, matching owner Randy Learner's desire for a young manager to meet the clubs long term

ambition. Sherwood also confirmed that there isn't a relegation release clause within his contract, for either side, were the Villains to go on to be relegated this season.

There has been a lot of focus, since his appointment, on the best way to improve the form of star striker Christian Benteke, who's indifferent performances have seen him net only three times in the Premier League so far this season.

Sherwood admitted he can see the similarities between the Belgian International and Tottenham striker Emmanuel

"Aston Villa have won only two home league games all season...improving their home form will be of paamount importance" Adebayor, who was rejuvenated working under Sherwood, having been left to train with the reserves whilst former Manager Andre Villas-Boas was in charge. Stressing that he "knew what a handful Benteke could be. A goal will breed confidence and the rest will follow. But it is not a one-man team. He needs to be helped by the rest of the team." Togetherness will be an important ethos as Sherwood tries to steer his new side to safety, and he was quick to make clear that every member of the squad will be given the chance to show their new boss what they're capable of. When Sherwood was appointed interim manager of Tottenham, in the wake of VillasBoas' sacking, he inherited a divided squad and it was his job to ensure that every squad member had a part to play, something which he did with great success.

Aston Villa have won only two home league games all season, their last was the 2-1 win against Leicester City on 7 December. Improving their home form will be of paramount importance if the club is to stay up, something Sherwood acknowledged: "When I came here as a player I found it a difficult place to get a result. I want to turn it into a fortress. I've come from one big club to another big club. It is a fantastic opportunity for me." The Aston Villa faithful will certainly be hoping Sherwood can lift the club's fortunes on and off the pitch, but

whilst stressing he is focusing on the short term only, he indicated that part of his long term vision for the club will be to develop younger players using the clubs youth system. As Academy Director and then Manager of Tottenham, a major part

"The Aston Villa faithful will certainly be hoping Sherwood can lift the club's fortunes on and off the pitch" of Sherwood's philosophy was to promote from within the club, with the likes of Harry Kane, Ryan Mason and Nabil Bentaleb given chances to shine at White Hart Lane. They certainly didn't disappoint. However, Sherwood said that whilst he was keen to give youth a chance at his new club, we should not expect to see any youngsters thrown into the first team squad because he does not believe

the stressful environment a relegation scrap brings would be beneficial to any young players long-term development.

It is clear that Tim Sherwood has his work cut out if he is to keep Aston Villa in the Premier League, despite his insistence that they 'will be fine'. Part of the struggle is going to be lifting the doom and gloom which lingers over Villa Parka remnant from Lambert's time in charge.

However, there is a sense of growing optimism, following the appointment of Tim Sherwood, that he is the right man to lift the clouds hanging over the Midlands club. Despite describing his new job as a "fantastic opportunity" he admitted that he had come close to joining West Brom twice, last summer and most recently this season, and that he had held positive discussions with QPR regarding their recent managerial vacancy. Only for both parties to decide that the deal, although tempting, would not be in the best interests of both parties. His former colleague Chris Ramsey, who worked under Sherwood at Tottenham, is the man QPR have chosen to help them avoid relegation. Whilst Sherwood was delighted that another English manager was being given the opportunity to shine, he joked that he was very much hoping his good friend Ramsey would "mess up" and be relegated.

The positivity that Sherwood brings to everything he does,his drive, determination and passion are exactly what a flailing club like Villa needs. The squad is by no means poor, and as Sherwood admitted, on paper the team should be nowhere near the relegation zone. The cure for this? Sherwood is adamant that installing confidence in his players through "loosening the shackles" will allow them to be more expressive in their play, and hopes this will allow them to link up with the star striker Benteke, in the search of much needed goals in their bid to beat the drop.

This Saturday sees Sherwood's first game in charge of Aston Villa, as they take on Stoke City at Villa Park. The new Manager will be hoping his "clear and simple instructions" will have the desired effect come kick-off on Saturday.

redbrick.me/sport

20th February - 9th March 2015

29

Interview: Simon Thomas Sports Editor Alex Kronenberg caught up with Sky Sports presenter Simon Thomas to find out about his life after University of Birmingham and his career in the media since starting out on Blue Peter Alex Kronenberg Sports Editor

Simon Thomas is a recognisable face on television for sports fans and 90s children alike. He was a presenter on the BBC’s famous Blue Peter from 1999 to 2005, before going on to present Sky Sports News for eight years. He left his role on Sky Sports News to focus on presenting Sky’s Football League coverage and has since gone on to also host coverage of the Capital One Cup. However, before all that Simon studied History at the University of Birmingham from 1992 to 1995 and was part of the Guild TV team, working on a show called ‘The Lunch Box’. “I’d always had an interest in doing that kind of thing, but never really given it a proper go I got given this show on a Friday which I worked on in terms of helping with producing". Making use of no longer needed pieces of equipment from the old BBC Pebble Mill studios down the road in Edgbaston, Simon enjoyed the experience and, after initially looking at jobs with the Metropolitan

"Simon was part of the Guild TV team, working on a show called 'The Lunch Box'."

Police and John Lewis, he decided to pursue a career in the media after graduating.

Four years later, and after a host of voluntary work and running jobs, Simon landed the job he'd aimed for - working as a presenter on Blue Peter. The programme was extremely successful while Simon was on it alongside co-presenters Matt Baker, Konnie Huq and Liz Barker, something which he attributes to the ease of working with one another as friends both on and off-screen. However, after

eight good years on the show, Simon had set his sights on a move into sports broadcasting.

A lifelong Norwich supporter and cricket fan, he initially found the stigma attached to working as a kids' TV presenter a hard one to shake off. Even now he is still reminded of this, ten years on: "'I still get people now shouting "here's

"Simon pits Jamie Carragher and Thierry Henry as two of the most interesting pundits he has worked alongside" one I made earlier!" when I walk out of football grounds"'. Despite having done the occasional bit of work for BBC Sport during his 6 years at Blue Peter, the kids TV tag was also the reason cited by the then-head of BBC sport as to why Simon would be unable to make the move to sports broadcasting. However, BBC Sport's loss was clearly Sky Sports' gain.

It seems lessons may have been learnt as no less than a couple of years later Jake Humphries, who started out as a kids' TV presenter on CBBC, became part of the BBC Sport presenting team.

Simon has no regrets though, having now been at Sky for the best part of 10 years and is thankful for the chance taken on him having been "pigeon holed" as a kids' TV presenter. He has gone on to work in a variety of presenting roles at Sky, initially working behind the Sky Sports News desk Monday-Friday during the 3-7pm prime time slot in the company of Georgie Thompson and then Kirsty Gallacher. From there he went on to also host Cricket AM and he now presents the live coverage of Football League matches. Simon puts his experience of working on Blue Peter and "being thrown into many different situations" as a key reason which enabled him to enter the world of sports broadcasting with Sky and go on to work in a few different roles.

Simon pits Jamie Carragher and Thierry Henry as two of the most interesting pundits he has worked alongside, as well as facing an over from Shane Warne as a

"It is one of the great privileges of the job, getting to meet people you've watched for years" highlight of his time on Cricket AM. "It's one of the great privileges of the job, getting to meet people you've watched for years".

As opposed to what many may think, there is far more to presenting than just turning up and reading from an auto-cue.

A typical week for Simon consists of reading through packs of statistics providing information on the teams and the players for the two chosen matches which he will be presenting the coverage for and then the weekend is spent doing the matches and travelling between stadiums. "It's quite nice because one of the things I promised myself when I came out of uni was that I wouldn't end up doing a 9-5 office job, that was my ambition. Often my weeks are quite different...but your office is always changing, one week you're at one ground the next you're at another. In terms of how I foresaw my career panning out, I couldn't ask for more".

During Simon's time at Sky Sports,

"If the stories don't happen, there's no amount of hype. gadgets or graphics screens that will change it" we have witnessed the evolution of Transfer Deadline Day into one of the most highly anticipated dates in the footballing calendar. Simon, himself, is of a mixed opinion about the occasion, enjoying his time working during it but he is

See more of our interviews at www.redbrick.me/sports

also wary of the hype that surrounds it.

He recalls working on the day which arguably set the precedent for the spectacle that it has become. "It has had its moments when it's been really exciting... the day Robinho thinks he's arriving to go to Chelsea and ends up at Manchester City and Dimitar Berbatov gets signed

by United very late on...it was a spectacular window, lots of things happened that no-one expected". However, he suggests that the big build up to the deadline can be problematic and compares it to Christmas Day: "the problem is, whereas on Christmas Day you know there are going to be presents, with Transfer Deadline Day you can't guarantee that there are going to be big transfers...If the stories don't happen, there's no amount of hype, gadgets or graphics screens that will change it".

Having taken him four years since leaving university to get his break on Blue Peter, Simon's suggestions for current students with similar ambitions were simple. "If I was at Unversity now I think my route would be quite different... the avenues that are open to people to try stuff are vast, compared to what they were". Whilst he acknowledged that there are never any guarantees that you will end up with a job in the industry, he stressed the importance of being as proactive as possible: "It's just about getting experience"..He went on further to say that building up a solid portfolio is absolutely crucial "none of it might have been read or watched by many people... but what it will show is that you haven't just woken up [one morning] and decided that you want to be a sports reporter - it is something you have been working at for many years".With 16 years experience of presenting and working in broadcasting Simon's advice should certainly be heeded by anyone hoping to follow suit.

Redbrick Sport would like to thank Simon for his time in answering questions and wish him the best of luck for the future.

30 20th February - 9th March 2015

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Sport

Strong performance from UBMRC in opening stage of championships UBMRC members Harry Forsyth and Christopher Brassett report on the club's first round of BUKC Championships from the famous Rye House Kart Raceway, as the club's A,B,C and D teams all raced in an action-packed two days.

Harry Forsyth & Christopher Brassett

UBMRC representatives

The 2015 BUKC qualifiers, held in November of 2014, saw the UBMRC qualify their A, B and C teams into very strong positions for the season ahead, ranking in the Premier, Intermediate and Rookie classes respectively.

Having reflected on the quality displayed, the Committee quickly realised that this would be a tough performance to reproduce, especially with the entry of a 4th team, Birmingham D, into the Rookie Championship.

After a track change from the original plan, festivities for the Main Championship commenced at 5am, Wednesday 11th February, with a lovely green Old Joe overlooking a dry Tesco petrol station; a surprisingly uplifting detail.

A 3 hour journey later saw Brum A and B arrive trackside at the famed Rye House Kart Raceway; the British breeding ground of top drivers, such as national motorsport hero Lewis Hamilton.

A cursory track walk confirmed the team’s hopes; dry, grey tarmac. Perfect racing conditions.

With the compulsory briefing and Club100’s main man JV’s words ringing in their ears, proceedings got underway in Sprint Race 1 of the day, seeing the A team’s Will Whitelock and the B team’s Harry Forsyth take to the track in Karts 23 and 40.

Team luck seemed to be non-existent, with a brief shunt at the get-go causing Harry Forsyth’s air box to dislodge, severely reducing his kart’s performance.

Whitelock on the other hand saw the race through with a multitude of racing incidents, both with backmarkers and leaders

alike.

Sprint race 2 saw much the same issues for Birmingham’s no.23 kart, with 1 Sam Brown getting into an unfortunate spin early on.

With things looking down and somewhat out for the count, the pressure 1 of success rested on the shoulders of Birmingham B driver, Harry Brown, taking the highest pre-allocated grid position for the B team.

Starting 9th, Harry took the track by storm, battling through the leaders and avoiding the backmarker build ups to secure a phe-

"Team luck seemed to be non-existent...with a multitude of racing incidents" nomenal 6th place finish.

Race 6 saw 2013/14 club Captain and Birmingham A driver, Chris Grange, repeat the same result, fighting in a field of top flight drivers, including none other than Emanuele Pirro, 5 time Le Mans winner and previous F1 driver. Grange matched the quality of the field to bring in Birmingham’s second 6th place finish of the day.

With an action packed round 1 of the Championship, we can do no more than thank guest commentator David Berrisford for capturing the crashes, pile ups and flying starts in audio form.

However, as alumni member JinLei Shang once said: 'the sprint races are the warm up for the endures', and he was certainly correct.

Endurance 1 had a nail-biting line-up, with the A and B team occupying pole position and 2nd on the grid for an all -Birmingham front row. With Whitelock and Grange occupying kart 23, lined up next to Brown and Forsyth occupying kart 40, it was set to be intense.

The team’s luck had certainly flipped, however, with both karts showing a class act. The boys brought it home in 8th and 14th place, with the result sweetened further with the race’s fastest lap set by Whitelock for Brum A. As the day drew to a close and the floodlights came on, the final endurance saw plenty of hard yet firm racing, both the A and B team scythed through the pack from the back with Birmingham A’s Sam Brown and Andrew Glencross gaining 14 positions to finish 21st. Birmingham B’s Kamil Szul and Amir Farah-Abadi made up 8 places to finish 26th.

Day 2 kicked off with the Rookie class C and D teams competing in preliminary race qualifying sessions.

Out first in Qualifying 1 was Liam Emberton and Stuart Cade-Westcome for Birmingham C and D respectively.

The session saw Emberton fall victim to mechanical failure, qualifying 23rd, whilst Cade-Westcombe fought for a hard-earned 28th on the grid.

With no drivers in Q2, next on track for Q3 were Victor Koh and Ben Jarret for Brum C in kart 62 and Brum D in kart 104.

Koh’s racing experience shone through, placing him 20th on the grid, one kart ahead of rookie Jarret who qualified 22nd on the grid.

Out next came Captain Howard Mitchell in the kart 62 and BUKC rookie James Lentschner in the kart 104 for Q4.

"Both the A and B team scythed through the pack from the back" Both lapped incredibly consistently and, despite facing a very strong field, managed to qualify 12th and 30th on the grid.

Mitchell was very pleased with the times set and told Redbrick: 'the rookies have become more competitive. In my debut race 2 years ago I qualified with a significantly slower time, but in the same position. The increase in ability amongst the rookie drivers is incredible!'

Q6 hosted step-in driver Chris Brassett for Birmingham C, as well as UBRacing Technical Director, Joseph Moorhouse, for Birmingham D. Both went out onto track into a strong field, but both pulled out fantastic qualifying results, with Brassett producing an outstanding 11th place and rookie Moorhouse producing an equally impressive 23rd place lap time.

"Both days saw Birmingham receive a real mixed bag of results... however, the final outcome was nothing to frown at" With qualifying over, the teams commenced racing, with Race 1 seeing a messy start; multiple karts stalled after sliding off track. Back on form with no mechanical issues, Emberton made up 8 positions to finish 15th.

Race 3 saw the C and D team drivers swap positions for the final result, with Jarret achieving 20th place in his debut race and Koh following up with a solid 22nd place.

Race 2 got off to a somewhat shiver-inducing start, with the first red flag of the season being brought out after a serious collision at turn 1. Debut racer Lentschner was involved, writing off his kart for the race.

With the most serious injuries being slight bruising and a lack of recollection of the crash from one of the other drivers, the race restart took place, eventually ending with captain Mitchell in 14th and Lentschner in 29th.

With a gratefully clean start in Race 6, both Brummy drivers were able to secure strong finishing positions, matching one another’s pace, with Brassett finishing in 15th place and Moorhouse ending in an impressive 22nd.

Both days saw Birmingham receive a real mixed bag of results. The team endured a period of frustration over both, however, the final outcome was nothing to frown at.

Birmingham B put kart 40 in a fantastic season-start position of 33rd overall, ranking 10th in the Intermediate class.

Birmingham A matched this incredible ranking by putting kart 23 into 20th place overall and 19th in the Premier class.

In the Rookie class on the other hand, Birmingham C with kart 62 are now sat in 22nd position overall, whilst Birmingham D, one of only 5 D teams in the Championship, have placed their no.104 kart in a respectable 41st position.

An unprecedentedly good performance for Birmingham in the initial stages of the BUKC Main and Rookie Championships should be set to continue, with the Silverstone of karting, Buckmore Park, hosting the upand-coming rounds in a fortnight’s time.

redbrick.me/sport

20th February - 9th March 2015

Tweet of the week

Wednesday's results

31

Redbrick Predicts

Men

This week's predictions pits two of our Sports Editors against each other and a guest editor, as they aim to correctly guess the outcome of six of this weekend's football fixtures. A correct result will receive 1 point and a correct score will receive 3 points.

Badminton 2nds 8 - 0 UCL 1sts Lacrosse 1sts 16 - 2 Essex 1sts Rugby 1sts 29 - 36 Exeter 3rds Squash 1sts 5 - 0 LSE 1sts Tennis 1sts 10 - 2 Lincoln 1sts

Alex Kronenberg Aston Villa vs Stoke City: 1 - 0 Tottenham vs West Ham: 2 - 0

Women Hockey 3rds 2 - 3 Cambridge 1sts

Southampton vs Liverpool: 2 - 3

Lacrosse 1sts 16 - 0 Southampton 1sts

Juventus vs Borussia Dortmund: 1 - 0

Squash 1sts 4 - 0 Leeds Beckett

Man City vs Barcelona: 2 - 2

Table Tennis 1sts 5 - 0 Nottingham 4ths Will Robey

Tennis 2nds 10 - 2 Oxford 2nds

Aston Villa vs Stoke City: 2 - 1 Tottenham vs West Ham: 1 - 1

Things to look forward to

Southampton vs Liverpool: 1 - 2

Football: The Premier League returns this weekend after a week off for the FA Cup, with Wilfried Bony and Yaya Touré returning to champions Man City following their success in the Africa Cup of Nations with Ivory Coast. Also be sure to catch the second batch of Champions League last-16 fixtures featuring Manchester City vs Barcelona.

Juventus vs Borussia Dortmund: 1 - 1 Man City vs Barcelona: 2 - 0 Dan Brett (Guest Editor) Aston Villa vs Stoke City: 1 - 1

Cricket: Catch the second week of the Cricket World Cup in Australia as England look to bounce back from a heavy 111 run opening game defeat at the hands of the hosts.

Rugby: As the 6 Nations takes a week off, rugby fans' attention will be returning to the Aviva Premiership. Second placed Bath host league leaders Northampton in the highlight of the weekend's fixtures, whilst Gloucester play London Welsh in a bottom of the table scrap.

Tottenham vs West Ham: 2 - 0

Online Content Keep an eye out for our live blog and match report from Villa Park as Aston Villa take on Stoke City in Tim Sherwood's first game as manager. You can also find Sports Editor Will Robey's article from Sherwood's first press conference as manager of the club on the website.

Redbrick Sport will also be bringing you coverage of the BUCS Nationals, alongside Burn FM. Our team of reporters will be live blogging all the action accross a host of different sports from the finals on Sunday.

Want to write for Redbrick Sport? sports@redbrick.me @redbricksport Redbrick Sport Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and online at www.redbrick.me/sports to keep up to date with all the latest sporting events. If you are interested in writing for Redbrick Sport, get in touch: sport@redbrick.me

The Redbrick Crossword Successfully complete the crossword and you could win a £5 voucher for food at any GO restaurant in University Centre!

Crossword by Thomas Hutchinson

Please send a picture of your completed crossword to crossword@redbrick.me, or fill in this form and put your completed crossword in the Redbrick pigeon hole in the Student Groups area.

Name: Email Address: Phone Number:

Across

1. Disaster (6) 4. Undergo change (6) 9. Type of seat found in fighter jets and 007's cars (7) 10. Striped big cat (5) 11. Teacher (5) 12. Arsonist (7) 13. Leading female roles in opera (5,6) 18. Lesser deity (7) 20. First letter of the Greek alphabet 22. Ice house (5) 23. Returns to original shape after deformation (7) 24. Up until now (2,4) 25. Old West bar (6)

Down

1. Bring into existence (6) 2. Incompetent (5) 3. Meantime (7) 5. Speak (5) 6. Mathematical form using letters to represent numbers (7) 7. Anger (6) 8. One who avoids mandatory military service (5,6) 14. Walked in the countryside (7) 15. River on the US-Canada border (7) 16. Floating without control (6) 17. Bird of prey (6) 19. Spectre (5) 21. Paved garden area (5)

Southampton vs Liverpool: 1 - 3 Juventus vs Borussia Dortmund: 1 - 0 Man City vs Barcelona: 1 - 1

Last week's results Alex: 3 Points Will: 4 Points Tom: 5 Points

1`2`3`§45`6`7 `§`§`§8§`§`§` 9``````§0```` `§`§`§`§`§`§` -````§=`````` `§§§`§`§§§`§` §qw`````e```§ r§`§§§`§`§§§t y```u``§i`o`` `§`§`§`§`§`§` p````§[`````` `§`§`§`§`§`§` ]`````§\`````

32 20th February - 9th March 2015

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Sport

P 29 - Sports Editor Alex Kronenberg interviews UoB Alumnus Simon Thomas

Magical performance and two hat-tricks sends Women's 1sts into quarter finals Dan Brett watched the Women's Football 1sts put six past Brighton at the Metchley 3G to reach the last 16 of the cup Dan Brett

Sports Reporter

Birmingham Women's 1st XI took apart Brighton 1sts 6-0 in a game that saw two hat-tricks and some classy goals.

On the back of a heavy defeat to runaway Northern Premier leaders Durham last week, Birmingham bounced back in style in the last 16 of the cup, totally dominating proceedings from the first whistle to the last to storm into the quarter finals.

It took little time for the game to settle into a pattern from kick off, whereby Birmingham dominated possession.

Multiple times central midfielders Nell Boxall and Laura Cooper were able to

"For all Birmingham's possession they perhaps didn't produce as many clear cut opening that they would have hoped" get their heads up and pick out passes to the pacey Nadia Bacciochi. It came as little surprise then that this tactic

resulted in the game's first goal after 9 minutes, as Bacciochi ran in behind her full back taking a beautifully weighted ball in her stride before picking out striker Ali Hall with a low cross. As would be the case, all game Hall's finish was calm and precise, taking a touch before rolling the ball home to the Brighton keeper's right. The game continued to be dominated by the home side's crisp passing from midfield with Bacciochi continuing to be a crucial outlet and the Birmingham attackers including the energetic forward Alex Francis not allowing the Brighton defenders and deep midfielders to settle on the ball. For all Birmingham's possession they perhaps didn't produce as many clear cut openings that they would have hoped for, however, this would soon change as the first half progressed.

If it had been Bacciochi's opening 25 minutes from the right flank, it was Eve McGill who began to take over from the left flank. Her determined running saw her get into good scoring positions but she fired over twice, almost catching a cross from full back Pip Cassidy too well on the half hour,

stealing in front of her marker. Five minutes later however McGill got the reward her influential first half deserved,

"The second half saw Birmingham explode out of the blocks, using Bacciochi's pace once more" cutting in from the left flank to slot low past the keeper. At the other end there was little that troubled the home sides goalkeeper Jess Myers, with Brighton's only opportunities coming from speculative long distanced strikes. For all Birmingham's dominance however that perhaps warranted a greater lead than 2-0 at half time, a mix up between keeper Myers and captain Gelly Campbell almost enabled the lively Brighton captain to steal in, only to be thwarted by a sharp stop from Campbell.

The second half saw Birmingham explode out of the blocks, using Bacciochi's pace once more, as she put in a teasing cross from the right which was only half headed away by the Brighton defence, with McGill on hand to react quickest to the knock down and sweep the ball home. Continued Birmingham pressure saw them win more corners, for Cooper to swing dangerously in. Centre half Ash Hargreaves, who along with defensive partner Shaz Buckle had little to do in their own half peeled away at the back post on one such corner to have one header cleared

"If Hall's second was a wondergoal, her third to complete her hat-trick was perhaps a more simple effort" off the line, as a fourth goal seemed only to be a matter of time. When it did arrive it was an absolute pearler courtesy of the confident Hall, who turned on the edge of the box before hammering a 25 yard strike into the top corner as the Brighton keeper could only be one of the many admiring spectators.

If Hall's second was a wondergoal, her third to complete her hat-trick was perhaps a more simple effort, nosing

home yet another pin-point corner from Cooper to make it 5-0. With such a comfortable lead the Birmingham coach was able to introduce substitutes Kelly Elkes, Emily Cook and Katie Sorenson giving hat-trick hero Hall the applause off she deserved, however the changes did little to disrupt the home sides rhythm as they continued to make the Metchley pitch big as Brighton chased shadows. The away side did at least have their livewire captain to turn to for some moments of impressive solo dribbling, but ultimately the Birmingham defence comfortably kept their opponents at arm's length as shown by the telling stat that Brighton failed to have a shot inside their opponents penalty area.

Birmingham's substitutions had seen the impressive Bacciochi withdrawn in a move that resulted in fellow winger McGill switching flanks to the

"Picking the ball up on the corner of the box McGill was able to get her head up and open up her body to bend a beautiful curler into the top far corner" right hand side. The home team experienced yet more joy from that side of the pitch and it was a cut in from McGill that saw her complete her own sensational hat-trick with a strike that rivalled Hall's earlier belter for the best goal of the day. Picking the ball up on the corner of the box McGill was able to get her head up and open up her body to bend a beautiful curler into the top far corner, as the Brighton keeper could yet again only be a bystander to such a high quality strike and the ecstatic celebrations of McGill that followed.

The final score of 6-0 in no way flattered a classy Birmingham, who played a brand of football that was pleasing on the eye throughout the game, and will undoubtedly give this vibrant team confidence to progress further throughout the tournament.

Although McGill and Hall will undoubtedly grab the headlines for their two hat-tricks, captain Campbell's side were superior from front to back, and in truth could have scored more than the six they ended up with.