Courier 1398

thecourier thecourieronline.co.uk

Gaming Japan bestows Cultural Merit award to a game designer for the first time Page 31

Sport We preview the Fight Night coming up this month in the Union Page 39

Monday 18 November 2019 Issue 1398 Free

Campus Comment We question a lecturer about the upcoming strike action Page 7 Est 1948

The independent voice of Newcastle students

University now Real Living Wage accredited

Grace Dean Editor

Last Monday, Newcastle University was formally accredited as a Living Wage Employer, which means that all staff and employees receive a minimum hourly wage of £9.30.

This introduction is set to benefit around 700 University colleagues.

Recognising the role of the University as one of the biggest employers in the region, Vice-Chancellor and President of Newcastle University Professor Chris Day said: “As a responsible employer, we know that the real Living Wage means happier and healthier colleagues so we are delighted to announce this new rate of pay to recognise those who are key to making our University a safe and welcoming place.”

Deputy Vice-Chancellor Professor Julie Sanders, who led the Living Wage initiative, said: “We are dedicated to creating a fairer and more just society at Newcastle University.

This is thanks to the hard work and support from a large group of colleagues and it goes some way in recognizing the invaluable role our staff play in university life and its contribution to the local economy.”

22%

Of employees in the North East currently earn less than the Real Living Wage

The Real Living Wage is calculated according to living costs and provides a voluntary benchmark so that employers can ensure their staff earn an appropriate wage that they can live on sustainably. The current rate of the Living Wage, which was announced by the Living Wage Foundation also on Monday

as £9.30, is higher than the government’s national living wage for over 25s which is currently £8.21 per hour. The hourly rate of pay is set independently and updated annually – it has increased by 30p since the 2018/19 rate – and, unlike the government minimum wage, it is higher in London, where real Living Wage employers pay £10.75 an hour.

The business benefits for real Living Employers vary greatly. Research by the Living Wage Foundation of over 800 accredited real Living Wage businesses, found that 86% of respondents reported that Living Wage accreditation had enhanced their organisation’s general reputation as an employer, and 64% said it differentiated the organisation from others in the same industry. It has also contributed towards recruitment, retention and staff motivation in over half of these businesses as well as improved relations between

staff and managers. 32% of employers who responded said that the introduction of the real Living Wage has increased their bill for subcontracted services, and only 13% report that it caused difficulties in winning contracts from clients because of higher costs.

700

University colleagues will benefit from this change

Currently almost 6000 employers throughout the UK, ranging from small local business to chains such as LUSH and Barclays, have voluntarily been accredited as Real Living Wage employers, benefitting approximately 180,000 employees. These companies share the Living Wage Foundation’s ethos that “a hard day’s work deserves a fair day’s pay”.

Despite this, research by KPMG reveals that approximately 5.19 million jobs, or 19%,

Frederick Douglass descendant opens FDC

are paid less than the real Living Wage. In the North East this figure is slightly higher than the national average at 22%. The real Living Wage is also subject to gender inequality – 24% of female employees earn less than the real Living Wage, compared to 15% of males.

Newcastle University is following in the footsteps of many other higher education institutions who have also become Living Wage accredited. The Universities of Manchester and Liverpool were both certified in March of this year, closely followed by the University of East Anglia in April. Of the 110 accredited employers in the North East, Newcastle University is, however, interestingly the only university to be accredited; the Durham, Sunderland, Northumbria and Teesside Universities are yet to reach this status. Durham Students’ Union is, however, accredited, along with 23 other Students’ Unions across the country.

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Monday 18 November 2019

thecourier No one is safe until everyone is safe A response to “Regimes which persecute: talking Turkey” (the Courier, 28/10/19)

Editor Grace Dean Deputy Editor Molly Greeves Online Editor Tom Hardwick

Current Affairs

News 3 courier.news@ncl.ac.uk Editors: Aimee Seddon, Carl Smith Valdez, Em Richardson, Emma McLaren & Sophie Wilson Comment 8 courier.comment@ncl.ac.uk Editors: Aastha Malik, Joe Molander & Kelly Corcoran

Life & Style

Life & Style Editor: Nimra Rafique Lifestyle 11 c2.lifestyle@ncl.ac.uk Editors: Catherine Entwistle, Cecilia Adamou, Holly Margerrison & Jess Herbert Fashion 14 c2.fashion@ncl.ac.uk Editors: Kajal Patel, Phoebe Eyles & Shamara Mohsin Beauty 17 courier.beauty@ncl.ac.uk Editors: Ellie James & Rashida Campbell-Allen Travel 18 courier.travel@ncl.ac.uk Editors: Amy Harris, Beth Robson & Meggie Williams Food 21 editor.union@ncl.ac.uk Editors: Amanda Goh & Cayla Viner

Turkey is a European country; Turkey is a Middle Eastern country too. It has borders with Iran, Iraq and Syria. These neighbours unfortunately have severe problems such as civil wars and economic sanctions embossed upon them. As a result; Turkey currently hosts 4 million refugees of which 3.6 million of them are Syrian.

Turkish hospitality is well-known as many students and academics who have visited the country will be well aware. Among the refugees there is no discrimination in terms of ethnicity or religion; the gates are open to all who seek shelter. Even though Turkey takes the whole burden and prevents refugees from entering the EU it is criticised for its actions.

Sad to say, the horrendous civil war in Syria has not ended. The war continues and it affects neighbouring countries such as Turkey.

To protect its borders, on 6 October 2019 Turkey launched Operation Peace Spring against ISIS (or Daesh) and YPG both radical terrorist organisations; which killed thousands of innocent Yazidis, Kurds, Turks and Arabs.

The operation has two simple aims; clear the border from these terrorists and enable the return of at least some of the 3.6 million refugees in Turkey to their homeland. Yet, since the beginning of the operations lies and propaganda against Turkey have swept across the media.

For this edition of the not-so-weekly Newfess of the Week, I’m going to respond to this particularly devastating burn from an incredibly intelligent anonymous source.

From what I can decifer, this person is trying to say that the Courier is shit journalism.

To be perfectly fair, I am taking up valuable

space in the paper responding to a comment from an anonymous Facebook page whilst slighty pissed. But is that not what great journalism is all about? Shouting into the void? Debating topics that don’t matter in the slightest? Rapidly typing bullshit as your deadline swiftly approaches?

Look, we shouldn’t make fun of this person. Illiteracy is no laughing matter and you don’t have to be a fluent writer to have an opinion on our objectively fantastic newspaper. Everyone has an opinion: Dr Stacy Gillis, who I interviewed on page seven, said that it was the best student newspaper in the country. She’s a very smart woman, gotta say.

That’s all from me. See you in three weeks.

Puzzles

editor.union@ncl.ac.uk Editor: Emma Dawson

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Sport

36 Head of Sport: Rebecca Johnson courier.sport@ncl.ac.uk Editors: Rory Ewart, Stan Gilyead, Toby Bryant & Tom Moorcroft The Courier, NUSU, King’s Walk, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 8QB Tel: 0191 239 3940 Email: editor.union@ncl.ac.uk The Courier is printed by: Trinity Mirror Printing, Barton Road, Riverside Park Industrial Estate, Middlesbrough, TS2 1UT The design, text, photographs and graphics are copyright of the Courier and its individual contributors. No parts of this newspaper may be reproduced without the prior permission of the Editor. Any views expressed in this newspaper’s opinion pieces are those of the individual writing, and not of the Courier, the Students’ Union or Newcastle University.

Newcastle University Turkish Society

LOUDMOUTHS

Wed 2-3pm

Two obnoxious, self-inflated larger than life ladies (who read English - can you tell?), giving their opinions that nobody asked for on literally whatever we fancy.

It’s our way or the high way. PERIOD. Our portfolio thus far consists of: topical debates, humiliating story times, chatting breeze, and relationship advice from two solidly single pringles. Not forgetting the absolute anthems sprinkled throughout 2-3pm on a Wednesday afternoon. Cancel your plans.

Drastically improve your Wednesday afternoons, to listen to Iz and Han put the world to rights. Tune in if you’re feeling saucy, or not, we’ll get you in the mood. ENJOY

Newfess of the week What’s in this week?

Culture

Culture Editors: Charlotte Boulton & Ella Williams Music 22 c2.music@ncl.ac.uk Editors: Dom Lee, Jagoda Waszkowiak & Joe Smith Television 24 c2.tv@ncl.ac.uk Editors: Amy Brown, Sophie Hicks & William Junior Film 26 c2.film@ncl.ac.uk Editors: Elisabetta Pulcini, Joe Holloran, Lucy Lillystone & Steven Ross Arts 28 c2.arts@­ncl.ac.uk Editors: Caitlin Rawlings, Charlotte Slinger & Lauren Sneath Gaming 30 courier.gaming@ncl.ac.uk Editors: Alex Darbyshire, George Boatfield, James Troughton & Shawn Khoo Science 32 c2.science@ncl.ac.uk Editors: Eleanor Gratton, Patrick Harland & Seshadhri Subramanian

It is Turkey which hosts 3.6 million refugees, its southern borders are constantly attacked by terrorist in Syria and Iraq. Why ignore these facts and show no empathy? Why spread propaganda of terrorist organisations?

Instead of calling for economic sanction on this important country why don’t we offer help? Why don’t we share its burden instead of putting the burden as a whole on Turkey’s shoulders? Let’s not cherry-pick who we support and see the situation as it is. When we are prepared to answer the questions above in a sincere manner, a better world will arise; since no one is safe until everyone is safe.

NSR Show of the Week

Get involved in student media Established in 1948, the Courier is the fully independent weekly student newspaper of the Students’ Union at Newcastle University produced by students, for students.

Any Newcastle University student can write for the Courier and it’s never too late to get involved as a writer, illustrator or photographer.

We hold our drop-in writers’ meetings on Wednesdays during termtime in the Planning Room of the Students’ Union from 1:30pm to 2:30pm, so come along to find out a bit more about us. Our next meetings are on 23 October and 30 October. Unable to attend the writers’ meetings?

All our leftover articles get posted in our Facebook groups, so make sure you join them all; simply search ‘the Courier 2019/20’ and the name of the section you’re interested in.

For more information, visit thecourieronline.co.uk, or email editor.union@ncl.ac.uk or the relevant section email on the lefthand column of this page.

Newcastle Student Radio (NSR) is our award-winning radio station run by students, for students. On air since 1997, NSR runs 24 hours a day, seven days a week with shows ranging from music to comedy, politics, sport and news. We have a wide range of opportunities to learn the tricks of the radio trade, from hosting your own show to event organisation and live punditry, and you don’t need any experience to get involved. For more information visit the NSR Facebook page and listen live at nsrlive.co.uk.

NUTV is our high-action, fast-paced television branch. Founded in 2010, NUTV produces both on-demand and live broadcasts, covering current affairs, entertainment, music and sports, allowing students to experience the world of TV production.

Whether you want to present on camera, direct and produce from behind the scenes, flex your editing muscles, or write and develop ideas, check out NUTV. For more information, email nutv.union@ncl.ac.uk.

The devastating effects of travel p.18

The best musical comebacks p.27-28 Breaking the fourth wall in TV p.25

From the archives

Image: JamKaftan on Flickr

Grace Dean looks through the archives to trace Newcastle’s campus history

10 YEARS AGO

14 YEARS AGO

43 YEARS AGO

Students began protesting outside Parliament against the launch of the independent review of higher education and student finance.

The review considered whether tuition fees should rise from the then £3225 to £7000 per year for students at higher education institutions in England and Wales. National Union of Students President Wes Streeting believed that politicians would be “hit where it hurts – at the ballot box” and that “MPs should be terrified of the student vote in the next election”.

The Courier reported on “50 uses for a Courier”. The newspaper is shown to be incredibly versatile, and some of the highlights are listed below: Stuffing your bra – cosmetic surgery is for wimps Stuffing your crotch – essential for those lessendowed individuals. Be sure to change stuffing in time with the release of each new issue to maintain hygiene levels.

Wallpaper your house – sod B&Q and the rest – go for stylish and informative interior decoration Saving your modesty – introduce modesty to drunken streaking before the law gets you Back scratcher – the Courier reaches all the places other papers can’t Replacing hall food – sustain a balanced diet by replacing nasty halls food with Couriers.

It works! Note – statement may not be true Paper cuts – be a hard man by dishing out devastating paper cuts to all and sundry Flyer people – give those bloody flyer people outside Campus Coffee a taste of their own medicine by blanket-flyering them with Couriers Cover your folder – and prove you really are too cool for school Massive paper plane – your lecturer will think it’s a 747 heading towards him

The Courier reported on inter-society scandal as it was revealed that the traditional Agric-Dental Debate in the Debating Chamber left massive cleaning bills. In a letter for the Students’ Union President, the two society presidents argued that “the throwing of excrement is now out of hand and the whole function of the debate, that is the debating, is ignored”. While allegedly debating whether “in the field of life it is better to suture than to sow”, the attendees started the event in a supposedly traditional manner, “with mud, excrement, water, genitals and other ammunition being freely throw around the recently decorated chamber”, though the article did not detail exactly who, or what, these genitals and excrement belonged to. After the battle, the room was “twice as bad” as the President of the Union expected it to be and left a “stench”, and, despite the carpet having been rolled up prior to the debate, it was still left “very heavily stained” and had to be professionally cleaned at a cost of approximately £100 (equivalent to about £830 now). The ceiling additionally had to be repainted at a cost of £17.

Attendee Caroline wrote in to the letters page of the Courier, where she expressed her disdain. After arriving in the Union expecting to be “greeted with the usual friendly atmosphere associated with a quiet evening out”, Caroline was flummoxed to discover a wave of students “impervious to pigs’ genitalia, lungs, viscera, rotten eggs and vegetables, and other miscellaneous crap”.

Parliamentary protests

44 YEARS AGO

Bomb hoax in Union

A meeting of the International Socialists in the Northumbria University Students’ Union was the subject of a bomb hoax one lunchtime. The bomb hoaxer rang the Evening Chronicle and told them that there was a bomb in the same room as International Socialist speaker Tony Cliff. The newspaper rang the police, who arrived at the Union and evacuated the building, but a thoroughly search of the Union yielded no suspicious items.

That week, an American Black Rat Snake was discovered in a kitchen in Jesmond wrapped around a jar of flour. After the finder rang the Environmental Health Department, it was revealed that the snake had actually been bought from a pet shop in Newcastle three months previously and has been “mislaid by its owner”.

50 uses for a Courier

Stage lightsabre fights – Darth Vader my arse.

The Courier makes Jedi status accessible to all

Use it as loo roll – recreate that “I’ve just used the loo in a halls of residence” feeling by rubbing your arse raw with Couriers

Agric-Dental shitstorm

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Monday 18 November 2019

@TheCourier_News courier.news@ncl.ac.uk thecourieronline.co.uk/news News Editors Aimee Seddon, Carl Smith Valdez, Em Richardson, Emma McLaren & Sophie Wilson

University accommodation costs reach breaking point Aimee Seddon News Editor

University accommodation costs have been on the rise across the country. According to the National Union of Students, rents accounted for 73% of the maximum student loan last year, compared with 58% in 201112.

In May, the government released a Post18 review of education and funding, which mentioned hearing “widespread and significant concerns about the cost of student accommodation”. The 2018 Unipol Report estimated that average rents increased by 6% over the previous 12 months, growing by a third since 2012/13.

Whilst the report did recognise that alongside higher prices, the standard of student accommodation has improved, affordability remains a concern. The proportion of ensuites has risen from 48% in 2009/10 to 58%

in 2018, and studios from 4% in 2012/13 to 9% in 2018/19. Meanwhile standard rooms with shared facilities have declined from 24 to 17% since 2012/13.

The report recommended that: “The OfS should examine the cost of student accommodation more closely and work with students and providers to improve the quality and consistency of data about costs, rents, profits and quality.” This includes “Devis[ing] appropriate benchmarks for the proportion of maintenance support spent by students on accommodation”.

Rents accounted for 73% of the maximum student loan last year

Alongside soaring accommodation costs,

there has been a growing movement of student activists holding their universities to account.

Rent Strike, an activist network, involves universities from across the UK; this includes Cut the Rent campaigns by UCL, Bristol and Sheffield amongst overs. On the 16th October this year, Rent Strike called a Day of Action against unaffordable rents. There is not currently a Cut the Rent campaign at Newcastle.

Clementine Boucher, a core activist at Rent Strike, said: “Students have accumulated so much debt and their quality of life has deteriorated so much it was impossible not to notice, they are really angry, frustrated and depressed by the situation. The group is building every year, so we are getting more campaigns, and more wins.”

Student activists at Liverpool University last year successfully pressurised the University

over plans to raise rents to an average of £158 a week, after extensively refurbishing its accommodation. Liverpool University agreed to bursaries for the 25% of students with the lowest household income as of September this year.

Rory Hughes, the former student union President who led the campaign, said at the time: “Living in halls would cost you twice as much a week as living in the private housing sector…It’s almost all ensuite, it’s very hotelesque, very swish accommodation.”

Boucher commented that Liverpool was not an unusual case, “It’s a stealth-like approach to take affordable accommodation and turn it into luxury halls, and students have no other option.”

For 2019, Newcastle University accommodation ranged from £84.14 per week for a self-catered room with a shared bathroom at St Mary’s, to £175.63 for a catered room

The University’s newest build is Park View Image: Newcastle University

with en suite facilities at Castle Leazes (that’s £6,404.44 a year.)

Apart from St Mary’s College, all of Newcastle University’s accommodation prices are higher than the average university accommodation rent across the UK, which falls at £87 a week, equalling £3480 a year.

Park View is the university’s newest build, and caters for the largest proportion of first years; excluding the even more expensive studios, their rooms cost £137.13 a week (at

The cost of accommodation affected 45% of students’ mental health

an annual rate of £5,485.20) These prices come as student maintenance loans range from the minimum of £3928 (for parents earning over £62,187) to £8430 (for those with a household income below £25000.) Thus, the lowest loan does not cover the cost of the majority of Newcastle University’s accommodation options.

Upon the building of Park View, in 2018, Twitter user @STEPHsowersby tweeted “Just looked at a new block of luxury student accommodation at Newcastle University £140PW, replacing the famous Ricky Road, shocked at how much costs have risen since 2013! Should students really be paying that when private accommodation is between 6090PW #Universities #Students”.

Save the Student’s National Student Accommodation Survey 2018 found that 44% of students struggle to keep up with rent; additionally, the cost of accommodation affected 45% of students’ mental health and 31% of their studies.

Unis “failing” black students with mental health problems Philip Etchells Black undergraduates experiencing mental health problems have some of the highest dropout rates among students across UK universities, according to new data from the Office for Students (OfS). The regulator has revealed 77 percent of black students with mental health problems continue their degrees after their first year, compared to 85 percent of students of other ethnicities with mental health problems.

Further data outlined the wide attainment gap between black students and their peers.

The OfS said: “In 2017-18...53 percent of black students with a mental health condition

obtained a first or 2:1.”

In 2017-18, 53% of black students with mental health problems obtained a 1st or 2:1

Nicola Dandridge, Chief Executive of the OfS, praised the work done by universities to support students’ wellbeing and address issues, but also expressed concern that mental health continues to be a “barrier to success.”

It is also suggested that universities are not doing enough to integrate black students into the campus environment. In 2017, just 8% of the UK university population were black or Afro-Caribbean students. Chris Millward of the OfS highlighted the wide attainment gap among ethnic minorities, and said institutions must make a “step change” in the coming years. He suggested that “the real challenge is in ensuring these students can succeed in their studies, and thrive in life after graduation.”

The achievement of black students is very much dependent on their mental health and wellbeing during their university experience.

Samuel Adekanle, a second year student at Newcastle, suggested a more balanced view is

needed on black students’ mental health. He said: “Universities have to view black people’s mental health to be just as vulnerable as their white counterparts. Also more BAME therapists who we could relate to more”, since this would make it easier for black students to approach the university support services.

50 out of 14,000 UK professors were of black ethnicities

be linked to the lack of black professors or diversity in the curriculum. A 2011 report by the Higher Education Statistics Agency found that only 50 of the 14,000 UK professors were of black ethnicities and just 10 were black women.

Professor Kehinde Andrews, who teaches Black Studies at Birmingham City University, argued that the problem lies in black students having to learn exclusively about “dead, white men”. He added: “Being taught Eurocentric knowledge...isn’t just alienating to (black students). It’s actually damaging to you because it’s telling you you cannot think.”

Another reason why higher education institutions are “failing” black students may

Student living costs more concerning than tuition fees Grace Dean Editor A recent report published by The Higher Education Policy Institute has shown that students are significantly more concerned about living costs than tuition fees.

In light of the Augar Review, which saw an independent post-18 education and funding Review Panel chaired by Philip Augar making suggestions of how university degrees should be financed and funding, the Higher Education Policy Institute issued a survey via polling company YouthSight which was completed by over 1000 full-time undergraduates.

The findings show that the cost of living is the top funding concern for 59% of students, while 18% are more concerned about tuition

fees and 23% place them equally. Newcastle University estimates that UK-domiciled students studying their undergraduate degree at the University require between £9500 and £10,5000 for living costs each year.

Despite these funding worries, 49% of students say they would choose to move away from home even if this cost them more, while 38% of students say they would live at home to reduce their outgoings. The remaining 13% are undecided. The survey similarly shows that this desire for independent living influences an individual’s choice of university, with 57% of students stating that moving out was important to them when applying to university.

Newcastle University regard accommodation fees as the largest source of living cost expenditure for most students, costing between £335 and £715 per month. This varies

greatly depending on factors such as location, en-suite or studio facilities and length of the contract.

Totallymoney.com announced Newcastle to be the UK’s 17th most affordable university town, which may come as a surprise to many students. This high expenditure may be due to Newcastle’s reputation as a party city: findings by Natwest show that students at Newcastle University spend on average £47.40 per month on alcohol.

52% of students receive contributions from their parents towards living costs

52% of students receive contributions from their parents towards their living costs, among which half receive over £1000 each year. Research in Natwest’s Student Living Index 2019 suggests that on average parents contribute £222 to each child’s living costs each month.

When questioned about Augar’s proposed amendments to the tuition fee model, which has aroused intense debate among higher education policy experts, 40% of students say they prefer the current system of £9250 paid back over 30 years, while 41% prefer Augar’s approach of £7500 paid off over 40 years. 79% of students say the level of interest charged is a “quite” or “very important” aspect of the funding system compared to other repayment terms such as the fee level or time limit of repayment.

The abolishment of maintenance grants for

the 2016/17 academic year attracted widespread criticism, and was seen by many as a regress in attempts to widen participation at universities. The reintroduction of such grants for disadvantaged students was one of many financial recommendations proposed

by Augar in his review, and supported by evidence that most graduates fail to pay back their maintenance loans over the 30 year timeframe.

Among those surveyed by YouthSight, 53% of students show support for a mixed system of maintenance grants and loans, while 32% say they would prefer grants only, meaning that none of the Student Finance contributions provided to students to support their living costs would be paid back. Only 16% of those polled show support for the current maintenance system in England, which is loan only.

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Almost 3000 NE operations cancelled in three years Olivia Jackson The crisis has been labelled “a shameful indictment of a decade of Tory cutbacks running our NHS into the ground” by the Labour Party.

However, health professionals have urged parties not to make this a general election issue. The chief executive of NHS Providers, Chris Hopson, states that “it becomes counter-productive when the NHS is used as a political weapon.”

Newcastle Upon Tyne Hospitals cancelled 2,927 operations for non-clinical reasons over the last three years A Freedom of Information request, on behalf of the Labour Party, revealed that Newcastle Upon Tyne Hospitals cancelled 2,927 operations for non-clinical reasons over the last three years. In addition, 2,677 were cancelled by Northumbria Healthcare, 1,515 within County Durham and Darlington, and 1,164 across South Tyneside. This data was compromised of Freedom of Information requests sent to all acute hospital trusts in England, with 82% of said trusts responding.

In response to these figures, a spokesperson for Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust stated that cancelling appointments was “never a decision taken lightly”.

Last-minute cancellations were attributed to “things like staff sickness or personal emergencies- as evidenced by our cancelling less than 3% of our operations for any reason, or less than 1% due to staffing reasons.”

Despite attempts to prevent the politicisation of this issue, Labour’s Shadow Health and Social Care Secretary has claimed that Labour will, if victorious in the upcoming election, “fully fund our NHS”. To do so, they promise to “recruit the doctors and nurses we need and safeguard our NHS from a Trump deal sell off that could cost the NHS £500 million a week”.

In line with this desire to improve NHS practices, a Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson said “We want patients across the country to get world class care in world class facilities and are investing £33.9 billion into our NHS to ensure that our health service is always delivering for those who need it.”

Health and Social Care spending in the UK is up from £116.80bn per year in 2009/10, to £132.90bn in 2019/20 Reflecting upon the last decade of Conservative govern, Health and Social Care spending in the UK is up from £116.80bn per year in 2009/10, to £132.90bn in 2019/20.

The Kings Fund says spending is increasing, but at a slower rate than in previous years.

Monday 11 November 2019

Students encouraged to register to vote

Image: Newcastle University Politics Society

Greg Rosenvinge Community organising group Tyne & Wear Citizens have been encouraging students on campus to register to vote ahead of the upcoming general election on 13 December.

In collaboration with Newcastle University Student Union (NUSU), they have set up a gazebo on campus outside the NUSU building, raising awareness of how students can register to vote at both home and term-time addresses.

“I think it’s very important to encourage students to register, as the election is right towards the end of term, and so many students might not know if they’ll be at home or still at university on election day,” said Sara Bryson, local organiser for Tyne & Wear Citizens.

“Some of the students I have discussed this with on campus did not realise they could register themselves both at home and their university address. As long as they know their national insurance number and date of birth, we can register them there and then in 2 minutes.”

“You can only vote once, but at least you can choose and not miss out on this really crucial election.”

Research from the Electoral Commission demonstrates that groups with unstable living habits, such as students, are less likely to

be registered to vote.

In 2015, 65% of 18 to 19-year-olds and 67% of 20 to 24-year-olds were on the electoral register, compared to 96% of people aged 65-years or older.

The report also found that 27% of people living in their property for up to a year were registered to vote, compared to 96% of people living in their property for over 16 years.

“It is important for students to register to vote at their university address, especially as this next election is during term-time,” said Emily Daffern, a third-year geography student at Newcastle University volunteering with Tyne & Wear Citizens.

“A lot of students don’t get their opinions across at the expense of older generations.

"This is especially important concerning Brexit and how it is going to particularly affect young people.”

NUSU have themselves encouraged students to register to vote through their website.

Its Your Voice team argue that “the student vote might be a deciding factor in a number of key marginal constituencies,” said Joe Barton, Representation & Research Coordinator for NUSU. Since the House of Commons passed the bill triggering a general election by 438 votes to 20 on 29 October, 240,480 people aged 25 or younger have registered to vote from 29 October to 4 November, according to gov.uk.

Frederick Douglass descendant opens FDC Grace Dean Editor

Kenneth B Morris Jr, Frederick Douglass’s great-great-great grandson, and Chi Onwurah, Labour MP for Newcastle Central, were among speakers at the grand opening of Newcastle Helix’s Frederick Douglass Centre.

The world-renowned activist, author and abolitionist Frederick Douglass came from the US to Newcastle in 1846 as an escaped slave and performed a lecture tour throughout Great Britain to campaign against slavery.

This included staying in Newcastle, which he visited for the first time in 1846 and made several subsequent visits, including delivering speeches on at least 16 separate occasions.

This included a lecture to over 1200 people on the evils of slavery and the role of the British in fighting against it. Douglass commented on the peculiar intensity of Tyneside’s anti-slavery passions, and in late December 1846 spoke of his pleasure at seeing “so large an audience assembled for so noble a cause”.

Douglass stayed on Summerhill Grove with two Quaker women who actively campaigned for a number of social causes, and raised £150 to buy his freedom. Since then, Douglass has also been commemorated with a blue plaque in Summerhill Grove which was unveiled last year.

University Vice-Chancellor and President Chris Day was the first to speak at the ceremony. He discussed how the opening of the centre plays a key role in the University’s commitment to equality, diversity and inclusivity, and described how the date was chosen as 13 November 2019 to mark 52 years since Dr Martin Luther King Jr was awarded an honorary degree by Newcastle University.

After this, Professor Julie Sanders, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, explained how the site marks a “serious commitment to our future” and hoped that the site and the wider University would become a “beacon for higher education and all that it stands for”.

Following from this, Newcastle Central MP Chi Onwurah, who played a crucial role in last year’s Freedom City celebrations to mark 50 years since Dr King received his honorary degree, spoke about the role of diversity in the University. She described how the opening of the new Centre marks an “important moment for the city and University” and symbolises the “journey” of the University from a piece of “real estate” to a civic university which has become part of the roots and future of the city. Onwurah praised the region’s history of fighting for social justice, including its history of innovation in areas ranging as wide as industry, science, politics and social justice, and quoted Douglass when he said that “Newcastle had a heart that could feel for three millions of oppressed slaves in the United States”. Onwurah concluded by describ-

Two thirds of Gateshead vape shops caught selling products to children Emma McLaren News Editor

Image: Pixabay

ing how Newcastle’s strength comes from its sense of community and how it has become united despite its differences, and described the city as a “shining beacon for social justice across the world”.

This was followed a talk from Sara Elkhawad, Welfare and Equality Officer at the Students’ Union, who discussed her recent Black is Gold campaign which celebrated black excellence in the city and thanked the local community for their involvement. She spoke about the overwhelming positive response she had received, including a student saying to her that the Black History Campaign made them “feel at home despite being the minority”. Activities Officer Eleanor Killner furthered this by discussing the Students’ Union’s commitment to the equality, diversity and inclusivity environment on campus, and detailed the Frederick Douglass Legacy Award which invites students from BAME backgrounds to creatively respond to global social justice themes such as racism, poverty and the climate crisis. It is hoped that some of these creative responses will be permanent installations for a long-term exhibition and showcased in future events hosted at the building.

After this was a speech by Father Brian F. Linnane, President of Loyola University Maryland. He reflected on Frederick Douglass’ life, including his journey from the US to Britain. He acknowledged the historic ties between Frederick Douglass and the city of Baltimore, where Loyola University is based.

The ceremony was concluded with keynote speaker Kenneth B Morris Jr, who is related to not just but two civil activists, being the greatgreat-great grandson of Frederick Douglass and the great-great grandson of Booker T Washington. After praising the “magnificent building”, he applauded the University’s recognition of Anna Murray, who was Douglass’ first wife and who inspired much of his activism, including sewing his sailor’s disguise for him when he was a fugitive slave. Morris described the importance of focussing on not just our history and past but also our present and future, reflecting that we “need to know where we come from to know where we’re headed”, and said that racial equality seems just as unattainable as it did when Douglass was alive, as evidence through inequalities in medical care, economic situations, education and police brutality. He said that, with the celebrations of both Frederick Douglass and Martin Luther King, Newcastle had established itself as a “custodian of the legacy of two of the world’s greatest freedom fighters”, but with this comes a commitment and responsibly to keep pushing for the furthering of human rights. Morris concluded with a quote from Martin Luther King: “the hour is late, the clock of destiny is ticking out, and we must act before it’s too late”.

Two thirds of vape shops in Gateshead have sold vape products to children, despite it being illegal to sell them to under-18s, a Trading Standards Inspection revealed.

In a test purchase operation, four out of six shops in the area sold the nicotine products to a 15 year old volunteer, without asking their age. The test purchases that were commissioned by the government’s Department of Health, and carried out by the Chartered Trading Standards Institute (CTSI). Legal action may be taken against the owners of the shops after further investigations.

A spokesperson for Gateshead Council said: “Health experts consider e-cigarettes helpful in getting existing smokers to give up cigarettes, with the current consensus being

that vaping is not without risks but is far less harmful than smoking tobacco.

“However, concerns are growing that children who have never smoked before are finding the branding and flavours of vaping liquids attractive, and they are becoming addicted. The law is meant to protect them, but it relies on retailers to enforce that law, and that doesn’t seem to be happening.

“We are extremely concerned that young people in Gateshead are apparently able to buy a highly addictive substance so easily.”

A nation-wide survey carried out by the CTSI showed an increase in the number of vaps being sold to children. Up to 40% of sellers were said to be making illegal sales to minors. Half of these sales were at e-cigarette suppliers, and the rest were sold at discount shops, car boot sales and markets.

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news

Monday 11 November 2019

University opens up Climate Conversation Grace Dean Editor On Friday 15 November, the University held an event titled the Climate Conversation.

Coordinated by the Sustainability Team at the University, the event was designed to facilitate climate change-based conversation among staff, students and the local community, including policymakers and stakeholders. The event aimed not just to encourage discussion about the current climate situation but also to inspire open conversation on what the University as an institution can do to encompass all aspects of sustainability and ensure that every sector of our society adopts measures to limit our waste.

The event, held in King’s Hall, was opened

by Professor Julie Saunders, Deputy Vice-

Chancellor, who explained how she was inspired to launch the event following sustained student activism and demands from the local community. Saunders explained how the University was working as part of the Russell Group Sustainability Group to lobby UKRI to implement further sustainability measures. She explained the University’s goal to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2040, and linked the University’s Climate Emergency statement to its commitment to social justice. Saunders explained the University’s philosophy by telling delegates to “be the change both that you want to see in the world and right here on our campus”.

After this, Matt Dunlop, Head of the University’s Sustainability Team, spoke on the University’s carbon footprint. Breaking down the University’s current carbon emissions, he described how almost half of the emis-

sions come from grid electricity, although the University has for years been using 100% electricity from renewable sources. This was followed by natural gas, business travel and other fuels. In total, the University releases almost 40,000 tonnes of carbon per year; to offset this, the University would need to plant 600,000 trees and maintain their growth for at least 10 years. On top of this, the University releases 62,570 tonnes of carbon annually as scope three emissions, which are indirect emissions from sources such as services and food provision on campus, which are not covered within the net zero emissions commitment previously set out by Saunders.

Following this, Professor Richard Dawson spoke on the effects that climate change will bring to the campus, the country, and the world. He discussed the importance of adapting buildings to climate change, with some of

the building stock on campus being “not fit for purpose”. He outlined the findings of the 2019 Progress Report by the Committee on Climate Change, which concluded that the UK is barely prepared for climate change, with 21 of 56 identified national risks having no formal actions in place. Dawson concluded by discussing the unequal distribution of the effects of climate change, with the most deprived communities being hit the hardest, and he spoke of the importance of making trade-offs to balance conflicts of interest from all sectors of society and spaces on the globe.

After this was a talk on sustainable travel by keynote speaker Kevin Anderson from Manchester University, who discussed the importance of aligning UK aviation emissions with the Paris Agreement and the role that universities play in this. The key message of his talk was that we should ask not what

Meet your Ethics & Environment Rep Hello from your 2019-2020 NUSU Ethics & Environment Rep! My name is Emilie Coutin and I was elected at Student Council in October.

On Wednesday 27 November we will be having our first ‘Environment and Ethics Student-Staff Discussion Group’, and you are all invited to participate. The events will be informative but also offer an opportunity to discuss important contemporary issues. Themes for this year include transport, energy, diet, waste, fashion, electronics, and money.

The first event will kick off with a discussion on the value of individual lifestyle changes as compared to large-scale systematic changes. Afterwards, we will identify changes that could be made within our university. For example, do we need more food waste bins on campus or different arrangements for events catering? Is our technology sustainably and ethically sourced?

Should the university fund train travel instead of air travel?

27 Nov

Meeting of the first Environment and Ethics Student-Staff Discussion Group’

After the meetings I will take our views and decisions to the university with a view to implementing the changes that uphold the values of the student body. I’m always looking for input from students, so please get in touch with your ideas or questions!

You’ll find me at our events, or you can contact me at e.coutin1@ncl.ac.uk.

Keep an eye on the 'Newcastle University Students' Union' Facebook page and here in the Courier for updates about the events!

Event details: Wednesday 27 November 18:00 in Barbara Strang Teaching Centre room B.29.

Image: Angel Warrior Wikipedia

we can do, but need to do. Following the obligations outlined in the Paris Agreement, the UK needs to reduce carbon emissions at a rate of 10-13% per annum, achieving a reducation of 30% by the end of 2022, and 70% by 2030. Anderson explained how aviation contributes approximately 10% of UK carbon emissions, yet within this there are great inequalities, with 70% of international flights from the UK being made by just 15% of the population, and roughly half the population not flying in any given year. Anderson explained how this made flying a “not normal thing” which is dominated by frequent flyers. Despite this evident inequality, the UK’s Paris-compliant emissions budget allocated approximately 38% of emissions to the aviation sector, which leads to “privilege layered upon privilege”, while other sectors must drastically reduce their contributions.

Anderson explained that this left universities with two possibilities: they should either reject the Paris Agreement and maintain business as usual, or demonstrate integrity and make profound changes to their running.

Anderson proposed a range of solutions that universities can make to reduce their aviation carbon footprint, including introducing an immediate ban on all business and first class travel, rescheduling fieldwork by training local residents and researchers to carry it out on site themselves, reducing the number of people flying to conferences, and adjusting finances to cover the additional costs of slow travel and provide cover for the extra time away for travelling. Outlining a climate change “school report” for the UK, Anderson concluded by saying that while the UK has an ability of A+, the current attainment is D-, though he had heard much better things of Newcastle University.

After this came a talk on reducing energy use by Professor Phil Taylor and Dr Sara Walker from the School of Engineering.

Walker outlined how a modern and vibrant economy can continue to flourish while we reduce carbon emissions, explaining how since 1990 the UK’s emissions have been reduced by 40% while the GDP almost doubled. She described the difficulty in reducing energy use on some sites of campus because of the variety of building stock included within the university estate, which includes roughly 100 buildings ranging from student accommodation to farm buildings. Taylor spoke of the importance of spreading sustainable measures beyond the University’s Newcastle campus to the campuses in London, Singapore and Malaysia.

The final talk was given by Professor Phil McGowan who spoke on decreasing resource use and the current strains on biodiversity, giving the damning statistic that one million species are at risk of extinction. McGowan concluded by discussing the importance of the University’s two Global Challenges Research Fund Hubs, dedicated to Living Deltas and Water Security and Sustainable Development. The University’s two Hubs, alongside 10 others, have been given a £200m investment by the UKRI to work across 85 countries with governments, international agencies, partners and NGOs to develop solutions to current sustainability issues.

Some assembly required on climate change policy Joe Molander Comment Editor There’s an old adage that the American Congress is overly pale, male and stale, a criticism that applies equally to the Houses of Parliament. While this is likely to change slightly after the 12 December election, 8% of MPs are non-white compared to 14% of the whole of the UK, 32% are women compared to 51% of the wider population, and the average MP is a decade older than the average Briton.

However, recent action taken by Parliament may help breathe new (slightly more diverse) life into the policy making process,

with the creation of a new citizens’ assembly announced in June. This month, invitations to join the assembly – dubbed the Climate Assembly UK – were sent out across the UK, including to 560 Newcastle postcodes. This represents less than 2% of the 30 000 total invitations being sent out, an amount that will be whittled down until the assembly has just 110 final participants.

A citizens’ assembly is a pool of randomly selected members of a state who discuss and make policy recommendations on a certain issue or issues: selection is then altered slightly to ensure all demographics are represented, making them different in more ways than one to a parliament. While often used to

muse over electoral reform – as seen in Ontario and British Columbia in Canada, as well as the Netherlands – they have also cropped up after sclerotic responses from policymakers on issues such as flooding (in Poland) and financial crises (in Ireland, after 2008).

It would seem, then, that at least in the eyes of the politicians that create them, citizen’s assemblies lack the rigidity sometimes seen in elected legislatures, and are afforded a certain dynamism by not being beholden to the will of the voting public. In Ireland, it was a citizen’s assembly that helped break centurieslong deadlocks on gay marriage (legalised by referendum in 2015, following an assembly recommendation) and abortion (unrestrict-

ed access to which the assembly urged the Irish government to legalise, before the issue was also put to referendum).

Climate Assembly UK will consider how best to meet the UK's target for net zero carbon emissions by 2050

Climate Assembly UK will meet over four weekends early next year, and will

ask its participants to consider how best to meet the UK’s target for net zero carbon emissions by 2050 – enshrined in law in June – and how best to respond to the climate crisis. The results of the talks are then to be presented to the six House of Commons select committees that commissioned the assembly, and debated in the Commons.

A Liberal Democrat spokesperson, was critical of how the assembly came to be, arguing “It is deeply disappointing that the Tory government have failed to take the lead. If they were serious about tackling the climate emergency, they wouldn’t leave it to backbench MPs”.

news RAG week 2020 sign ups open

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RAG has worked with the Students' Union to clean the streets of Jesmond Image: Hannah Finney

Cameron Trotter As winter draws in, the Northumberland Street lights get switched on, and Starbucks bring back their red cups, it can only mean one thing. No, not Christmas… RAG Week signups are open!

To bring the uninitiated up to speed, every January sees the return of the RAG Week, a massive charity fundraising drive organised by the Raising And Giving Society. Each year over 350 people join RAG Crew to spend the week after their exams raising as much money as possible for that year’s six RAG Week charities and taking part in volunteering around the local area. This year’s charities are StreetZero, Rape Crisis Tyneside and Northumberland, Solving Kids Cancer, Campaign Against Living Miserably, Anti-Slavery International, and Women for Women.

Fundraising throughout the week is achieved through both daytime and nighttime activities fitted around your University schedule. Daytime activities include bucket

collections on all major streets in Newcastle, major Metro stations, Central Station, and football grounds, as well as large volunteering projects; the biggest being the Jesmond litterpick with local organisation Keep Jesmond Clean. Last year RAG Crew, along with the Sabbs and locals, managed to clean every street in Jesmond!

The Monday night sees a new event brought in for RAG Week – the silent disco!

Hosted by NSR, this is quickly turning into an event not to be missed! Tuesday sees Venue host some of the best student talent in the Battle of the Bands contest, and everyone’s favourite Bingo Revolution returns on the Wednesday. Thursday sees the return of the most famous RAG event, Take Me Out (sadly not hosted by Paddy McGuinness) and this year is sponsored by Deliveroo. Come down and see which lucky contestants will find that special someone, then read all about their date in the Courier afterwards!

After all your hard work during the week, what better way to unwind on the Friday

than with Get Your Own Back, a 90s gameshow mashup where the RAG exec go head to head with the sabbs to see who comes out un-gunged! Don’t forget, the biggest RAG Week events are open to all students but everyone who signs up to be a volunteer during RAG Week gets discounted entry and free entry to the afterparty each night in Powerhouse and Pink Rooms! All money raised from entry to the events, plus 50p from every diesel sold in Venue, goes to the six charities.

So if you want to help make a difference in the world, have fun doing it, and make new friends for life with your assigned Crew, then why not sign up? To do so, head to nusu. co.uk/rag and purchase a RAG Week t-shirt for £1. All money raised from t-shirt sales (and hoodies – it’s COLD in January) goes directly to the six charities also. Any questions can be sent to rag@ncl.ac.uk or check out their website at nusurag.co.uk to find out more about RAG Week as well as everything else RAG are doing throughout the year to help beat their last year’s fundraising total of £103,000.

Democracy on campus: Student Council Charlotte Boulton & Rebecca Johnson

The second Student Council took place on 14 November in the History Room of the Student’s Union. This Council session saw five motions proposed, four of which passed.

The first constitutional motion was to change the name of Racial Equality Officer to BAME Students Officer to make the role’s purpose clearer. Rabeeyah spoke in favour of the motion, saying that their job is “specifically to represent and celebrate BAME people”.

The motion passed 100% in favour, an easy win for the first proper vote.

A motion to implement fully digital submissions of written assignments was proposed by Commuting Students’ Officer Sian Dickie, intending to improve the environmental impact of printing long assignments as well as considering financial and accessibility concerns, was met with mixed opinions. Various students spoke in favour, citing the environmental concerns and frus-

trations of printing out twenty-page reports whilst also handing in a digital copy to TurnItIn. The motion passed with 92% votes for, showing Council’s strong preference for digital only written assignments to be introduced

by Summer 2020.

The next motion was proposed by the LGBT+ Officer Tobias Lawrence to update NUSU’s Trans Policy which outlines information to support transgender students. He had updated this document himself, as the previous policy had “questionable terminology” and required Council’s approval to make these changes official. This motion passed 89% for and 11% against.

Education Officer Pablo Charro de Fuente put forward a further motion to amend the current guidelines surrounding the use of paper promotional materials during elections week. Currently, candidates are allowed 1000 paper flyers and 50 printed posters throughout the week. However, Charro de Fuente proposed that this should be changed, restricting candidates to a maximum of 20 A3

posters and five A2 posters. Owen Lukins spoke for the motion, arguing that the majority of students found the amount of paper “annoying” and the move to less paper would be appreciated. Charlotte Boulton also proposed an amendment to make sure that all the paper used would be recyclable as a lot of material is printed on glossy paper. The motion failed to pass, with 63% voting for, narrowly missing the 2/3 majority needed to pass.

The next motion proposed at Council was to lobby the University to introduce free graduations, proposed by President Katie Smyth. Smyth stated that graduation ceremonies contain a lot of hidden costs, including gown hire and ticketing. She described these hidden costs as a, “sour end to our university experience by paying a lot of money.”

The motion passed with 86% voting for and 14% voting against.

The next Student Council is on 5 December.

Glasgow Uni denies responsibility for transphobic toilet sign

The transphobic sign was posted outside a female toilet in the University of Glasgow Image: Flickr

Phoebe Hurst More than 20,000 hand-knitted poppies are The University of Glasgow has refused to take responsibility for a transphobic sign posted outside one of their female toilets, despite the sign featuring the university logo.

A transphobic sign was posted outside of the women’s toilets in the University of Glasgow’s music department. It was first noticed on the 23 October and was immediately removed.

The sign, featuring the University’s name and logo, reads as follows: “This is a female toilet. If you don’t qualify as female, please use the gents’ toilet on the floor above or below. Thanks.” The sign is printed in pink text and features a symbol of a women, similar to those found on ladies toilets. The symbol was also printed in pink.

The sign received a significant amount of backlash online, with much of the disapproval directed towards the university.

When asked about the sign, a representative for the University of Glasgow told The Glasgow Guardian: “The university supports all genders. Permission was neither sought nor granted for this poster and it has been removed.”

The music department of the University of Glasgow has also denied any responsibility for the sign, despite it initially appearing they issued it.

The president of the University’s LGBTQ+

society stated: “Anti-trans campaigning is becoming increasingly aggressive and hate crimes in the UK are on the rise. It’s important that things like this don’t go unchallenged. We hope the person who created this poster is found soon.”

"Signs likes this should be taken strongly, and must effectively be dealt with"

Tobias Lawrence, LGBT+ Officer, Newcastle University Student Union

Every year the University of Glasgow holds a Remembrance Day for those killed as a result of trans-phobia. The university and their LGBTQ+ society want the day to celebrate the lives of those killed. It aims to raise awareness to the continued discrimination and violence still prevalent in the society towards Trans people. All university students are invited to join the celebration.

Tobias Lawrence, the LGBT+ Officer of Newcastle University Student Union considers this as ‘offensive’ and ‘unacceptable.’

He said: “Anti-trans rhetoric such as this reaffirms the confusion between sex and gender. Signs and symbols likes this should be taken strongly, and must effectively be dealt with.”

New medical research institutes Patrick Harland Science Editor

Three medical research institutes are being opened at Newcastle University Image: Newcastle University

Monday 18 November 2019

With a growing population, the world now has an increase of medical issues to combat.

This means that the need for easy-to-access research has also increased, hence why the Faculty of Medical Sciences at Newcastle University has further committed its future by opening three new research institutes.

The three new institutes are Biosciences, Clinical and Translational Research and Population Health Sciences. The aim of these is to increase cross-working between the institutes. This is encouraged by research staff being assigned a research theme, as opposed to the typical research topics found in other research institutions. This allows for a broader range of research to be done and for staff

with specific expertise to be accessible when necessary.

It is believed that the change in the way that this research is organised will pave the way for early career researchers, and vastly improve the research-led teaching opportunities available to both postgraduate and undergraduate students. It also will allow for a better working relationship with the Newcastle University Medical campus in Malaysia.

The Pro Vice-Chancellor of the Faculty of Medical Sciences, Professor David Burn, said, when speaking on the opening of the new institutes that: “These are exciting times for the Faculty. A huge amount of work has gone on behind the scenes to get us to this point, which we regard as the start of our journey together.

The introduction of this structure represents a new chapter for our Faculty, which will enhance our research, teaching and

overall multidisciplinary working.”

This change allows for the faculty to build on its fundamental principle of bench to bedside practice. It is aiding in allowing for the important research to reach patients sooner, and for researchers to be able to interact with patients directly.

The research themes cover a wide range, helping vast numbers of people. There have been recent breakthroughs in tackling Type 2 Diabetes and Dementia, which have come from research done at Newcastle University.

Research from the university also led to a ground breaking drug to combat ovarian cancer, Rubraca, and is currently being given to patients across the world.

As the medical issues facing the worlds population continue to expand, the requirement for more research to be conducted grows, and this act from the university shows a clear intent to continue research.

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Monday 18 November 2019

Deputy Editor: Molly Greeves @courier_latest courier.news@ncl.ac.uk courier.comment@ncl.ac.uik

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campus comment

"What the hell's going on?"

Your questions answered Molly Greeves talks to Dr Stacy Gillis, Senior Lecturer in Literature, about the upcoming UCU strike action

What are the strikes about?

MG: Can you explain why the strikes are happening and your own personal reasons for striking?

SG: I sit on the local UCU committee as the Equality Officer. So there’s two reasons we’re striking, two ballots but this strike covers both ballots. One [of the reasons] is the changes to the University’s Superannuation Scheme and that’s a pension, and that’s what we were striking for [in 2018].

Pension is, for those who don’t know, pension is deferred pay, I pay into my pension pot now so that when I retire I will get that back to support me. This is really important for academics because we have to do a BA, an MA and a PhD, a huge amount of training, but also, we often don’t get jobs for five or six years, so you often don’t start a job in which you can pay pension until your late thirties so the idea of having a secure pension is quite important. This is particularly [important] for women because women are paid less than men.

The other strike that’s going on in universities across the UK not just Newcastle

What don't we know?

universities have failed to make substantial inroads on the gender pay-gap, the BAME pay-gap and the disability pay-gap so if you’re a white, able-bodied man, you’re gonna make a lot more than anyone else in the University. And it’s also about workload so for the majority of lectures (who are on permanent contracts) are contracted to work anywhere between 6 and 39 hours a week say. The majority of lecturers work 60-70 hours a week out of love for the profession, out of love for teaching and out of love of research. We’re not asking to be paid for those 60-70 hours... increasingly universities have drawn on what are known as workload models that come out of big business so it tries to quantify every minute of every day, and that what happens is you end up with [is a situation] where you’re like “oh but wait, I was in that meeting for half an hour...” you end up nit-picking at the minutest details, it’s just ridiculous.

So there are two ballots and we’re striking at the same time on those two issues.

MG: Are there things you feel like students might not know about the strikes?

SG: We don’t get paid for any of it. At Newcastle we pick- et between 8am and 11am only, and we have to notify the University of the places that we will be picketing, and we’re not allowed to picket on University property. So if you want to support us, the big places would be near the Robinson Library, in front of King’s Gate and beside the Intu Building and over near the Business School. We’re not trying to intimidate students who are coming through, that’s not the purpose of what we’re doing. Students would not be harassed when crossing the picket line because the dispute is not with the students.

It is so heartwarming and wonderful when students show up and give support.

When you’re absolutely knackered, you’re

What do students think?

Joe Andrews

Can students help?

MG: I wanted to ask you about the picket line because I’ve had other students ask me if I am going to cross it...

We stand with students

SG: But you’re not crossing the picket line because you’re not in dispute with the institution. Students are not perceived to be scabs, for want of a better word, for crossing the picket line. The dispute is not with students so you can never cross it literally or figuratively, we stand with students. I would say that during the eight days that we’re off [to] make full use of the other things that your tuition fees are paying for... the library, the gym, all these buildings on campus. But there’s no issue with students walking across

the picket line.

MG: What are the best ways that students can support lecturers during the strikes?

SG: Show up at the picket line, just come and say hello. Stand for five minutes on the picket line handing out posters... you know what? Just make eye contact when you cross by. Sometimes with students I’m like, you were in my office crying about your PEC yesterday and then... yeah it’s interesting. Email the Vice Chancellor, write to your MP, talk to people, raise awareness.

Make people aware of the dispute. So many people teaching you are part-time hourly paid people without even a pension and they’re doing it because they love the discipline, they love academia, they love teaching and research, make people aware of that, I would say.

Image: Taste-E

standing in the snow and the rain...

MG: I forgot there was snow last time!

SG: Yeah, there were some days where I left and I was just shaking... and for [students to show up] it honestly means the world.

But the most important message is that striking is not something we do lightly and it is hard, it’s hard to stand up and say “I believe in this” and to see colleagues ignore you or shout at you when they pass by... it’s a really hard thing to do.

If students want to talk about getting a refund they should email the Vice Chancellor Chris Day. MG: Is it okay to ask lecturers if they're going on strike?

Well, you can’t ask if they will be going on strike... well you can ask but they don’t have to answer. But you can ask them if they support the UCU action, that’s the best way to phrase it.

It’s official, our lecturers, along with 60 other universities across the UK will be going on strike on the 25th of this month and like last year it will be us, the students, who face the consequences of the gross mismanagement over our lecturers’ pensions. Many students will be angry and rightfully so; lectures, seminars and dissertation meetings will inevitably be disrupted as a result of strike action despite £9250 still leaving our pockets this year. But to be perfectly clear, we must make sure our frustrations are targeted correctly. It is not the lecturers who are to blame, but the university management and greedy vice-chancellors who year on year ensure their own pay check rises, whilst repeatedly seeing cuts to that of our lecturers. There has been an 18% cut in lecturers’ real wages in the last decade alone and now they see an extra £10,000 per annum decrease in pension provisions, according to the University and College Union (UCU). No wonder tensions are high.

The result of the strikes in 2018 was a deal struck between the university and lecturers. This deal made changes to the ‘University Superannuation Scheme’ (USS), allowing a fair rate of pensions to be

set. Recently, however, the university made a complete U-turn by scrunching up this agreement and yeeting it into the closest recycling bin. This brings us right back to stage one of negotiations, where lecturers are once again undervalued, victimised and their voices are unheard.

Our beloved lecturers are being held at ransom with their hands tied behind their backs. Of course they do not want to harm our studies, but collective strike action has proven to be the only way to make an impact in the past. It is far from an ideal situation, but only when the university executives’ bottom line is affected, do they take notice.

Furthermore, the precedent that public pension schemes can be subjected to manipulation by their board of directors is highly disturbing for anyone who is currently, or intends on being, the beneficiary of such schemes in the future. If this widespread strike action proves to be unsuccessful it will not just be our university that feels the damage, but the door will then be swung wide-open for every institution of employment to be subjected to a series of attacks on pensions. We must back our lecturers through this tough period, make sure they hear our support and are not defeated in this battle of administrative avarice versus sensibility.

comment Stick it to the man-datory voting

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Monday 18 November 2019

@courier_latest courier.comment@ncl.ac.uk thecourieronline.co.uk/comment Comment Editors Aastha Malik, Joe Molander & Kelly Corcoran

In light of the upcoming general election, our writers consider whether we should be required to fill in our ballot by law

Voter tu r n ou t in the Brexit referedum was 72%, which means that 28% of eligible voters could not be arsed to have their say about the most significant change to British policy this century.

For the UK, 70% is supposed to be impressive. The last time voter turnout for a general election topped 70% was in 1997, when Blair was busy changing politics with New Labour, before committing what many saw as war crimes.

In Australia, where voting is mandatory, over 91% of eligible voters turned out for the federal election this year. Of course, you could argue that if you force people to vote they will just turn up and tick any box they feel like without really understanding the policies of any party. However, if voting is mandated, people may well become more engaged with politics. Moreover, with several million more voters thrown into the mix, politicians may make more of an effort to present their policies in clearer terms, to engage with more apathetic constituents.

I don’t think that people should be fined extensively for refusing to vote. The penalty should be inconvenient, not financially ruinous. More importantly, mandatory voting should include the right to spoil your ballot, or at least vote for ‘none of the above’ (although spoilt ballots are much more fun). The idea that a nation should force its citizens to vote for

a canThe didate right to Image: Wikimedia Commons they do not vote is one of support is ridiculous, the most important and the idea that a spoilt ballot is a in British society. Nonetheless, wasted vote equally so. whilst most voters will be debating which party Therefore, making voting mandatory with an op- to vote for, some may still be wondering whether tion to say no to every candidate would create a to make the trip to the polling station at all. genuine risk that spoilt ballots could outnumber votes for certain parties in some constituencies, Our right to vote is not an which can only increase accountability for politicians. obligation It wasn’t until 1928 that all Brits over 21 could vote, a right fought hard for by men and women.

It would be a shame if 30% of voters continued to This may lead some to say that voting should be shun that right and disengage from democracy. mandatory. However, as someone who previously never saw myself voting, I would strongly disagree.

Steven Ross Our right to vote is exactly that: a right, not an

obligation.

Choosing which party to vote for on election day is often the most difficult part of the process.

Brexit has created so much uncertainty in politics that no party has come out looking great.

Additionally, young people may feel pressured to vote a certain way due to social media, their friends or their parents. The voting system can also be off-putting for certain people. Constituencies can be strongholds for one party, meaning that if a voter wants to vote the other way or vote for a less popular party, they can feel as though their vote is less meaningful.

Forcing people to vote would solve absolutely nothing. Instead of not voting because they don’t know who to vote for, former non-voters would be doing one of three things: voting for a party that they don’t believe in, making an ill-informed decision or ticking a random box. An election under this system wouldn’t just be unfair: it would be foolish.

While it may be hard to accept that some people don’t want to vote, forcing these people to vote would be a mistake. Nevertheless, for those thinking that they don’t want to vote, remember that it is always important to stand up for what you believe in. If that doesn’t match up with what MPs are saying, you have my respect.

Dominic Lee

Arresting the activists: are these apprehensions acceptable?

Following the arrests of Jane Fonda and other activists, Faye Naveysey discusses whether arresting climate activists is justified Protests and strikes are part of any healthy democracy.

The repeated arrest of Jane Fonda and Extinction rebellion activists for raising awareness of Climate change is an affront to the democratic rights which were fought for by brave activists.

Jane Fonda has been arrested four times now along with other celebrities like Ted Danson. They are a perfect example of wealthier celebrities using their privilege for good and they do not deserve to be arrested for trying to save the planet for future generations.

Climate change is the biggest crisis to ever face us. It poses an existential threat to humanity and the idea that climate protesters are being arrested is utterly ridiculous and indicative of the lack of urgency that the gov-

ernment has regarding this issue.

The UN has warned we only have 12 years to limit climate catastrophe there has already been extreme incidents of extreme

Authorities will have to realize that the threat is not climate activists but climate change

Youth activism has also played a huge role in the climate strikes, with figures like Greta Thunberg and groups like Extinction Rebellion being made up of mainly young people and students. It is refreshing to see young people so engaged in an issue which will directly influence their future. It has to be asked why then does the Prime Minister of this country calls these protesters “Uncooperative crusties” instead of dealing with the crisis that they are trying to address. Why have extinction rebellion had to go to court to gain the right to protest in London?

The push back against activists has been part of every great struggle and eventually, authorities will have to realize that the threat is not climate activists but climate change.

weather and flooding yet authorities seemed to be more concerned with activists protesting. The authorities arresting these people have to ask themselves activists might cost some money in property damage but what will be the cost if we don’t listen to them?

These are celebrities who are using their privilege for the good of future generations

It is important at this crucial point in the climate crisis that the police stop with the arbitrary arrests of activists and that the government actively work with them to fix the problem.

Image: Wikipedia, Wikimedia Commons

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comment

Monday 18 November 2019

John Bercow calls his last order in the House of Commons

Following his resignation, Sam Slater reflects on the ups and downs of Bercow as Mr Speaker

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n 31st October, one promise to leave was kept.

John Bercow stood down. The news was met by a mixture of delight and despair, as is the new normal when anything is announced in UK politics. The view of his legacy will be equally polarising.

Many MPs and staffers have wished him a happy retirement from across the political divide and views of his handling of Brexit issues

Bercow was elected as Speaker in 2010, standing on a platform of championing the voice of backbenchers, and increasing the role of Parliament beyond rubber stamping the wishes of a strong majority government. From the beginning he learned to be controversial, allegedly backed

by just three MPs from his own party due to a shift in his views over the years that he was an MP, deviating from the right to a more socially liberal stance.

The policy of promoting backbenchers has been a key feature of Bercow’s tenure, particularly under the spotlight of Brexit. The Benn Act is just one prime example, allowing backbench and opposition MPs to debate a motion that would prevent Brexit occurring on 31st October if certain provisions were not made. The act passed, one of many nails in Johnson’s plans for Brexit and increasing the ire of the Tory party towards their former colleague.

More serious controversy has also existed during Bercow’s reign. Harassment and intimidation tactics have been reported by various civil servants and members of staff that work for the former Speaker. Ultimately, these reports were not investigated as they were deemed insufficiently serious and too historic by a Commons standard committee. Despite what might be seen as archaic and heavy-handed approaches by the Speaker, many MPs and staffers have wished him a happy retirement from across the political divide and views of his handling of Brexit issues.

Bercow has just tried to fulfil the brief of the platform that he stood on, championing the rights of Parliament over that of the government

Consequently, Bercow’s legacy will most likely come down to a personal view of Brexit. To some, he is a hero.

Numerous instances of allowing debates and bills from backbenchers to be debated which prevent a hard or no deal Brexit has won him the support as well as the hatred of millions. Despite the criticisms of what can be seen as “interference”, it can be said that Bercow has just tried to fulfil the brief of the platform that he stood on, championing the rights of Parliament over that of the government.

There is no doubt that he, and his infamous chorus of “order”, will be missed from the Commons.

SOAPBOX CHRIST-MASS ADVERTS Carl Smith Valdez

I

t’s November and Christmas is already around the corner. It is inescapable, from posters, music and of course, advertising. Christmas is radiated into the public dialogue, as everyone discusses their plans for the season. It is now maddening considering how consumerism equates to the original meaning of Christmas.

Products are now consumed in exchange for festive joy, love and warmth. Commercials have replaced the traditional meaning with the hyper-real.

It convinces the mass audience to buy many products in order to make the season magical. Products are now consumed in exchange for festive joy. This is where advertising becomes ironic. Christmas is supposed to be the time to unite everyone together and appreciate what we already have.

I think it’s the perfect time for us to stop and think back to the original message of Christmas. We can only truly understand the season by discarding all materialistic objects associated with it.

TOAST OF THE WEEK

FANTASTIC FAILURES

Image: Wikimedia Commons

Drug legalisation: more than a pipe dream?

News editor Aimee Seddon crack-s on with weed-ing out opposition to new government report

T

he Scottish Affairs Committee last week published a report saying that possession of illegal drugs for personal use should be decriminal-

ised.

This comes as drug-related deaths in Scotland reached an all-time high of 1,187, the highest of any EU country. However, The Home Office said it had no plans for legalisation, stating that it would not eliminate crime associated with the illicit drug trade. But the Home Office are wrong to dismiss the view so readily: I’m not saying drugs should definitely be legalised, but I certainly see the worth of the arguments in favour.

It’s all well and good saying that people shouldn’t do drugs: yes, they shouldn’t. Everyone knows they do harm (but hats off to you if you’ve ever heard anyone promoting ket’s health benefits). Despite this, people have done drugs for centuries past and they will for centuries to come, from the rich to the poor, young to old. Making drugs illegal has not made a difference. People who want to do them will have access to them whether they’re illegal o r

not, and those who don’t want to won’t suddenly have a change of heart because they’re legal.

Making personal possession legal stops drug addicts being criminals, and turns them into people who simply need medical help. It will also reduce the stigma around problems with drug use so more people will seek treatment, hopefully lowering addiction rates.

Portugal decriminalised personal possession of all drugs back in 2001, and has since seen dramatic drops in overdoses, HIV, drug-related

Image: Wikimedia Commons

crime and incarceration rates.

Legalisation would mean that a boy caught with drugs on his night out won’t have a permanent record on his system, whilst all his equally guilty friends get off scot-free, as is the case currently. As it stands now, if you’re caught with class A drugs (like MD or cocaine), you could get up to seven years in prison. That’s seven years of wasted government resources, and money that could be directed towards chasing the top of the drug chain.

Hopefully, legalisation of a personal supply would also help encourage greater awareness of the dangers involved. Because drugs are illegal, we just don’t talk about them, and there’s minimal education. Many of the dangers surrounding drugs can be prevented if users knew better, from how to take ‘safer’ dosages to how to combat the effects.

But to be honest, I’m not surprised the Home Office shut down the proposal for legal drugs so quickly : a lot of the cocainesniffing elites probably like the danger.

W

Joe Molander

e live in constant fear of failure.

It’s possible that social media is a factor: not only is every little mistake recorded and readily accessed (hence the rise of ‘cancel culture’), there is also a constant pressure to ‘spin’ life.

Social convention seems to dictate we present our day-to-day existences in the best way possible: we can’t just be doing fine, we have to be doing amazingly, living through a constant state of enjoyment.

As social animals, we’ve always wanted to be part of a pack, but social media pushes us all in a bit tighter, uncomfortably so.

So when we try something different and it doesn’t work out – when we stray from the herd and it doesn’t immediately win the herd back – we feel awful, which is why we rarely try anything. Here’s to those who do, and who fail miserably, but do it again, and again, and again, out of drive, ambition or sheer bloody-minded passion.

ROAST OF THE WEEK

SHORTBREAD Joe Molander

T

here are a lot of biscuits out there: some chocolatey, some plain, some nutty. Some of them are even nice, but not shortbread.

Similar to a brick in both shape and taste, one can only assume the reason they keep getting made is to provide particularly lazy tourists with something to bring back their relatives after a holiday in Scotland, as if to cement their family’s disappointment in them.

When discussing this piece with shortbread apologists, they explained to me that I had it wrong, and that the biscuit is good dunking material. A food being packaged and sold on its own should be able to stand on its own two feet (its dry, beige feet), and besides, it’s too dense to be permeated by tea or coffee, meaning not even those powerhouses of the British palate can make this small, disgusting section of our culture enjoyable.

the courier

Monday 18 November 2019

c2.lifestyle@ncl.ac.uk @Courier_Life thecourieronline.co.uk/lifestyle Life & Style Editor Nimra Rafique Lifestyle Editors Catherine Entwistle, Cecilia Adamou, Holly Margerrison & Jess Herbert

life&style

11

Are you unlucky in love? Email us at c2.lifestyle@ncl.ac.uk

Abi Jackson meets Kaleem Yousaf Third year Electrical & Electronic Engineering Third year Accounting & Finance

Blind Date Image: Emma Monaghan

Hey Abi, what made you sign up for blind date?

Me and a friend saw it advertised and thought why not, it will be a laugh and a different experience.

How did you prepare for your date?

I just did my usual going out routine with the normal panic of picking an outfit last minute!

What was your first impression of Kaleem?

First impressions were good, he seemed easy-going and relaxed. He matched my type personality-wise.

I haven’t been on many dates but this does rank quite highly What did you get up to on your date?

We went to Las Iguanas for cocktails.

Did he have good banter?

Yes definitely!

If he were a hot drink what would he be?

He’d be a hot chocolate with cream and marshmallows

Did you have a lot in common?

Not really but that made our conversations more interesting because we could talk about each other’s interests.

Where does it rank out of all the dates you’ve ever had?

I haven’t actually been on that many dates but this does rank quite highly.

Describe him in three words.

Tall, dark, funny.

Do you think you’ll see each other again?

Yeah possibly.

How was a blind date different to your normal dates?

I had a lot more nerves and uncertainty but it was still a good laugh.

Hey Kaleem, why do you think you’re still single?

I got my heartbroken in year 9 and told myself never again.

What’s your celebrity crush and how did Abi compare?

I really like Mabel but I haven’t heard Abi sing so can’t compare just yet.

What were your first impressions of Abi? She’s a really good looking girl, easy to talk to and good craic.

If Abi were a cocktail what would she be and why?

She’d be a woo woo because she’s a good mix of everything - plus she woo’d me.

What did you talk about on your date? Any topics you avoided?

We covered a lot of topics and had good conversations but definitely tried to avoid politics.

If you could redo your date what would you do differently?

It sounds cliché but I wouldn’t change anything, I had a really good time.

Describe Abi in three words.

Warm, ambitious, smart.

I’d be keen for a second date and I’d take her for food Will there be a second date on the cards? If so where will you go?

I’d be keen for a second date and I’d take her for food down by Quayside.

Do you think the Courier did a good job of matching you?

We got along well so yeah you did a good job.

Would you recommend blind date?

For sure! It’s nice to be outside your comfort zone once in a while.

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the courier

life & style lifestyle

Monday 18 November 2019

A self-help guide to better skin Ditch being upse Sick of dry, winter skin? Pheobe Hurst delves into how to beat this seasonal scare

O

ur skin changes a lot throughout our lifetime: from smooth, clear skin as a child, to breakouts as teenagers and then the first signs of ageing as an adult. It is therefore unsurprising that we focus so much on caring for our skin.

However, it can be difficult to tell the good from the bad due to the constant, and often confusing, skincare adverts we are bombarded with every day.

Pair that with the expense tied in with many of these new skincare products, it can sometimes feel impossible to know where to start when it comes to our skin.

We have compiled five easy ways to better skin:

1. Eating a healthy diet Whilst it doesn’t sound like much, our diet greatly affects our skin. Quite simply, what we consume is reflected on our skin: when we eat greasy food, filled with salt or sugar, our skin shows it.

Diets filled with sugar, salt or grease tend to result in breakouts and dull, tired looking skin.

tion can also be found in low-fat milk, and sugarfree drinks Just like our bodies need to stay hydrated in order to remain healthy and functional, our skin needs to remain hydrated in order to look fresh and bright.

The NHS recommends drinking between six to eight glasses of fluid a day to maintain hydration: this doesn’t necessarily have to come from water, hydration can also be found in low-fat milk, and sugar-free drinks.

Whether that pet is a dog, a cat or a squirrel, they are bound to lift your mood from 1/10 to happy dancing to “I like it”

by Cardi B in a matter of seconds. Just picture seeing the happiness in

3. Quit smoking Quite simply, smoking dehydrates the skin and increases the signs of ageing. As well as improving general health, quitting smoking will result in healthier, brighter looking skin.

4. Getting enough sleep Its not a secret that when we don’t get enough rest, our skin appears dull and tired-looking.

Whilst it can be hard to balance uni, a social life and getting enough rest, getting enough sleep is the simplest way to improve your skin.

Image: Pixabay LillyCantabile

The Contraception Diaries Em Richardson explains why the patch is the best choice for her

L

ike many teens, I was prescribed the contraceptive pill before I was even sexually active, as a way of controlling painful periods.

Unfortunately, my time on the pill was nothing short of a living hell. I couldn’t sleep, my mood swings were intolerable, and I gained weight, despite feeling too nauseous to eat most of the time.

When I eventually stopped taking the pill, my weight and sleep patterns returned to normal almost immediately.

Whilst researching alternatives to the pill, I came across the contraceptive patch: a small adhesive patch which Image: Wikimedia Commons is placed on the skin, and releases hormones into the body, preventing pregnancy. Each patch is worn for a week, then replaced, on the same day each week.

P

icture this: you go home after a 9 til 5 day at University, completely drained of energy and looking more like an underpaid zombie rather than a human being.

You open your door with great difficulty as you would much rather have already been in bed, binge watching that show you have already seen, at least 3 times, while eating your “dinner” out of a plastic bag (potato is a vegetable so technically crisps are a nutritious meal, right?).

You are exhausted and your socks are wet.

Nothing can really make you get out of your gloomy state and the thought of assignments starting to pile up.

But right in the moment you feel like giving up, two pairs of sparkling eyes meet yours unexpectedly by the entrance door.

It’s your pet who has been waiting for you all day to come back so you could play together. It’s almost like they have a secret power of which we are unaware.

Playing with a dog or cat can elevate levels of serotonin and dopamine, which calm and relax us.

2. Reduce stress Stress is a major factor of life and a small amount of stress is helpful in life; however, larger, overwhelming amounts of stress can result in breakouts and can even exaggerate the symptoms of acne.

University can be an incredibly stressful time, however there are a variety of simple things we can do to reduce stress, such as meditation, exercise, quite reading and even socialising with friends.

Newcastle university have also developed an app to help improve mental wellbeing and reducing stress.

5. Drink plenty of water Hydration doesn’t necessarily have to come from water, hydra-

Maria Savin discusses the mood

After three weeks of wearing patches, the patch is removed for a week, allowing users to have a period.

In October 20919, I walked out of my local sexual health clinic with three months’ worth of patches, and I’ve never looked back.

I haven’t had a single adverse side effect from the patch, apart from occasional, very light spotting. My weight and blood pressure have stayed constant, and my periods are significantly lighter, with much less cramping.

I even find remembering to change my patch much easier than remembering to take the pill. I think it’s because it only happens weekly, rather than daily. I just pop a reminder on my phone, making sure I change on Sunday morning.

Experiment until you find something that works I love how discreet the patch is, too - it’s small, nude, and can be placed on your bottom, so don’t let thoughts of walking around with an ugly plaster stuck to your arm deter you from trying a great form of contraception.

Most of all, remember that the pill isn’t the only form of contraception available, and don’t be afraid to experiment, until you find some-

thing that really works for you.

After all, contraception is a very personal issue.

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lifestyle life & style

Monday 18 November 2019

et, invest in a pet

d lifting power of pet bonding

their eyes when they see you picking up their favourite ball- you would automatically forget about everything else in the world. It’s almost like they have a secret power of which we are unaware.

At the same time, a pet doesn’t necessarily need to be a cat or a dog, as watching a fish in an aquarium can help reduce muscle tension and lower pulse rate (no wonder every dentist has one in their waiting room).

You always have them in your heart- or as the background picture on your phone.

But leaving aside the science behind it, we can all agree that there is nothing like the feeling you get when you hold your pet close into your arms; that warm, fuzzy feeling that everything will be alright as long as you have them in your life.

And if you are far away from home, studying for your future, and you cannot see your pet up close, you always have them in your heart- or as the background picture on your phone.

Whenever you look at pictures of the two of you together or short videos your family sends you of them being silly, but simultaneously infinitely cute, your face lights up just like on a Christmas morning.

So, next time you feel like life is getting difficult just video call your pet and have some quality time with them while making weird noises in hope of them reacting to them. You won’t regret it!

Is going long distance a long shot?

Long distance relationships can be complicated. Jade Sagynay explores this further

H

ave you ever met someone who you connected with on a deeper level? It’s insanely satisfying to realise you have many interests in common, conversations flow like rivers and you generally enjoy each other’s company.

But as it often goes, university is not the best time and place to form such strong unbreakable bonds. So what happens when you have to separate? The answer is an attempt of long-distance relationship.

Further, I’ll cover the problems you could face when entering the long-distance phase of the relationship, the advantages of such an arrangement and give you some tips on how to get through the tough times.

First of all, there are a few issues you could be dealing with, one of which is no physical contact for months on end.

Which ultimately leads to the feeling of disconnection.

If you don’t maintain the same level of interest in each other, the end result might be that seeing one another after separation can feel strange and uncomfortable.

However, there’s a silver lining to it as well. Most importantly, each partner in the relationship gets to grow on their own and reach a level of maturity required further in life.

As long as they remember not to put their lives on hold. The distance also lets you test the strength of your feelings.

T o powerful connections, the distance will only become the fuel of love. And

lastly, having your partner out of reach means you have more time for family and friends. They are just as important as your relationship.

As for the tips, I had to split them into three categories: communication, actions and consideration.

Communication: First and foremost: honesty and trust.

No relationship exists without them. Be honest and don’t create reasons for suspicion.

If both partners follow this, it will create mutual trust.

Also, remember to remind your loved one of your feelings. As much as we think we make them known, sometimes verbal confirmation can go a long way to reassure your other half.

Always talk about any issues that are bothering you, bottling them up could lead to bigger complications.

Remember to set some ground rules and be on the same page about your relationship.

And don’t forget that sometimes talking about your day could be the best option, as your partner is not part of it and would love to know all about it.

Actions: Before the distance give each other a memento, one which will remind your loved one of you.

As much as you cannot physically go on a date, you could still do activities together: simultaneously watch a movie or read the same book.

If you want to be extra-romantic, try snail-mailing, it would most definitely warm their heart. For some modern ideas, you could set yourselves video-call dates.

To create anticipation and get excited about seeing each other again, set some goals and plans for your meeting.

Bear in mind that over-planning can mean an underwhelming date. Additionally, you could also give each other cute nicknames and celebrate your big days together.

Consideration: Something to keep in mind are each other’s feelings.

You should avoid hurting or upsetting your partner.

Also, remember plan in together-time into your schedules, rather than getting into a habit of talking at an inconvenient time.

Make an effort to roughly remember your partner’s schedule too.

Try to put in a little more effort as LDR’s can be pretty demanding.

Invest your time and energy into making this work, but only if you know the dedication is mutual.

And have some faith! In yourself, in your partner and in your relationship.

Stay positive about the situation. Be creative in terms of actions and gestures f o r each other.

And keep on working on it…

Image: Instagram: @long_distance_.relationship_

Bloody brilliant: eco-friendly period products

Imogen Davies shares some helpful advice on how we can be organic each month

W

hen its that time of the month and you need to stock up on menstrual products, the last thing on your mind is being eco-friendly. It is so easy to forget the harmful impact that they can have on the environment.

Image: Pixabay

There are many options when it comes to expenses, brands and sustainable ways to deal with our periods.

Traditional pads and tampons, both plasticbased and containing a range of potentially irritant chemicals, are not the healthiest option when it comes to our bodies and our planet. For people who experience periods, deciding which product to use is a pain (pun unintended). But there is no need to worry as there are many options when it comes to expenses, brands and sustainable ways to deal with our periods.

Eco friendly pads & tampons:

Instagram: @ carlotta_notaro

Many brands now manufacture plastic free, biodegradable pads and tampons. For example, Natracare’s pads and tampons are made from organic, combustible materials unlike their traditional counterparts that are approximately 90% plastic.

This means that in using their products you are not only reducing plastic pollution but also treating your body more kindly as they are free from irritating perfumes and

dyes used in most mainstream products. While a bit more expensive than conventional products, if you want to cut down on plastics, they are definitely worth considering.

Period Underwear:

Although they might not be for everyone, period underwear are a further sustainable option worth considering. As their

name might suggest, period underwear are simply pants designed to function in a similar way to tampons and pads, collecting your flow and protecting you from leakage throughout the day.

They come in all shapes and sizes and, of course, prices. Typically, they cost from around £15 – £30. But when you factor in the period products they replace, period underwear are a cost-efficient choice.

Popular period underwear brands include Modibodi, Wuka and Thinx.

Reusable Pads:

Another sustainable option to consider are reusable cotton pads. Online you can purchase cloth pads in a range of sizes, shapes, colours and

patterns that make periods a lot more light-hearted.

Many also come along with wet bags for storage and washing. Again, they produce zero waste and in the long term save a significant amount of money. However, the process of soaking, washing and drying them between each use can be quite time consuming and requires a lot of effort.

Menstrual cups:

Menstrual cups are an increasingly popular alternative to conventional period products.

Essentially, they are a surgical silicone

c u p that acts similarly to a tampon, collecting your flow once inserted.

Image: Max Pixel

Menstrual cups are an increasingly popular alternative to conventional period products Yet more impressively they can be used up to 12 hours for a time and while they are more expensive, often costing up to £25, they can be reused for several years. Popular brands include Divacup, Claricup and Mooncup and can be bought online or in some mainstream drugstores.

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life & style fashion Four Instagram couples worth the follow

Monday 18 November 2019 c2.fashion@ncl.ac.uk Fashion Editors Kajal Patel, Phoebe Eyles & Shamara Mohsin

Meilanie Darmawan shares her guide to four current need-to-follow couples in fashion

F

@bonpon511

rom the elegant and romantic Paris to the hustle and bustle of Seoul, these four couples never fail to impress their followers with their adorable and fashionable selfies together. Here are the four Instagram influencers, who you need to follow!

Now, this is a special one. Started in 2016, this retired 60 years old Japanese couple started an Instagram account as a joke. They wanted to share their daily co-ordinated outdoor outfits. No fancy photography was needed for the couple, as they simply rely on their iPhone and tripod, but their pictures are all worth taking a second look at. The cuteness doesn’t end there, their Instagram username, bonpon511, is a combination of their childhood nickname and their anniversary date, the eleventh of May.

@hyunah_aa & @hyojong_1994

After publicly announcing their relationship on August last year, these two love birds have been giving their fans a ton of Instagram-worthy pictures.

Hyunah, especially, who has been an idol in the industry for more than a decade now, has truly found her eccentric style, as we can see from the outfits she chooses to wear. The couple is rumoured to release new songs (separately) on the 5th of November.

@jaimetoutcheztoi

Nothing screams love more than Paris and this couple is the epitome of that. They even introduce themselves as ‘French couple from Paris’.

Five years ago, the couple started their relationship in Los Angeles, USA. They then decided to launch a blog to share their Parisian fashion and lifestyle to the rest of the world (jaimetoutcheztoi.com, 2019). Now, with more than 200, 000 followers on Instagram, their feed mostly captures their fashionable street-style but with a more indiestyle of photography.

Instagram: @soniaeryka

@soniaeryka & @mariakubit

If you’re familiar with Rich Brian, the worldwide artist from Indonesia, it’s time to get familiar with his fashionable sister who stole the spotlight way before him. Sonia started writing for her blog 2009, at the time, she was just another seventeen-year-old teenage girl in Indonesia who wanted to follow the trend. Fast forward to a decade later, with almost 200, 000 followers on Instagram, she would often post pictures of her and her long-term boyfriend travelling around the globe. Sonia hasn’t forgotten her roots, which is fashion, her Instagram feed shows off her eye-catching street fashion with a flare of her own.

Instagram: hyunah_aa

Jordan Lipscombe x Missguided

Caitlin Sinclair shares her thoughts on the highly anticipated

Y

ouTube sensation, Jordan Lipscombe, with 1.7 million subscribers, breaks into British fashion with breathtaking Missguided collaboration.

Lipscombe describes her style as “smart casual” and the collection undoubtedly reflects this.

The collection includes 47 pieces ranging in price between £8 and £50 so the stunning items are all at reasonable prices and there really is something for everyone. There is currently 30% off all tops and dresses so now is the perfect time to shop the collection. The collaboration features casual pieces such as sweaters and oversized t-shirts as well as gorgeous dresses which are perfect for a winter evening.

The oversized t-shirts are ideal for a more casual look, offering both longlength and a cropped-cut. The iconic number and flame graphic transform these casual tees into recognizable, statement pieces. There is an abundance of colour-ways, from versatile neutrals such as black and white to neon orange and green which will be sure to add a pop of vibrancy to any look. This is not exclusive to t-shirts as the same concept is used for sweatshirts, which are perfect as the winter months are fast approaching. If these bold pieces aren’t your style, there are more simplistic designs with the slogan “minimalist” across both the front and sleeve of cropped sweatshirts which offer an alternative that will cater to Lipscombe’s diverse audience. The “minimalist” theme is carried across a variety of pieces including joggers and buckle strap tops and dresses which allow you to create an your own co-ord for “every day”.

Now lets talk about the dresses!

My personal favourite is the faux leather milkmaid hook and eye dress which is very on trend and a highly versatile piece which could be dressed up with strappy heals for a Christmas party

or layered for an edgy everyday look. This faux leather range also includes a milkmaid crop top as well as utility shorts giving shoppers a variety of options that will cater for their looks. If you are seeking a dramatic look, the monochrome grey snake print midaxi dress is everything you need. Paired with statement jewellery, this glamorous piece is ideal for any formal occasion. For a more casual look, buyers can opt for a slinky co-ord or even a high neck mesh bodysuit with the same iconic monochrome snake print. The champagne bust cup dress is perfect for the party girls out there, with a satin finish this figure hugging piece is truly beautiful for a night out on the toon.

The collection has faced backlash online for its lack of sizing inclusively, with some of the items only stocking sizes 6-14. Some have labelled this “disappointing” as it doesn’t cater for a large proportion of Lipscombe’s audience. Although, there appears to be an attempt to include a bigger range of sizing with some pieces stocking sizes 4-28. Lipscombe has seemingly hit back at this criticism, liking an array of comments that elude to her having no involvement in what sizing Missguided will be stocking.

Ultimately, this collection is everything that could have been expected from Lipscombe, albeit you are within the small scope of sizes for the more glamorous pieces. Since the initial launch, Missguided have stocked a bigger range of sizes for some of the pieces due to demand and backlash, but this isn’t across the entire collection.

Considering this is her first major fashion project, the collab is very impressive and definitely representative of her unique sense of style

Instagram: @jordanlipscombee

Instagram: bonpon511

the courier

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fashion life & style

Monday 18 November 2019

Rihanna's Cameo: a celebration of black women

Raquel Padoa discusses the launch of Rihanna's latest collection for her brand Fenty

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n (exceptional) entrepreneur in the works, Queen Rhi has proved to be a creator of all things with her new ensemble ‘Cameo’, a threepiece jewellery line celebrating women of colour. Just when we thought the brand couldn’t get any better, after its initial release of makeup products in 2017 with its impressive range of colour shades, this new addition to the Fenty family unearths a unique exploration of beauty.

Unlike other new additions in the market, this line has a real purpose in its widespread message – aimed to shine a spotlight to honor black women. Rhianna’s consistency to highlight women of colour and their ability to prolong power through age-defying beauty is seen in the design of each pendant, pristine and polished with a running

Instagram: @fenty

theme of hair being central to a black females’ identity.

Taking inspiration from ancient history’s rich culture of Greek mythos, with its underlying themes of potent sexuality, love and immortal beauty, this jewellery line (Cameo) symbolizes different facets of beauty in women.

With its 3-tier collection of a brooch, pendant and rings - all carrying an inherent theme of beauty as multidimensional – each piece is carefully adorned in pearly white ovals and a female profile coated in black resin, glossed over hints of Swarovski crystals. Such fine details are in recognition of a long-winding road to reclaiming female identity through freedom and fearlessness.

Cameo emblems are historically worn throughout generations of men and women; speculations of different meanings have been associated to its largely European origin. Despite this ancient trajectory, Rihanna has unleashed Cameo to a modernised new realm to celebrate female beauty in more than just the conventional way. Just like all other Fenty products – from skin tone ranges and lingerie fit to feel luxurious for all shapes and sizes – this jewellery line is an ode to the inclusivity of all women.

Every part of this release appears polished to perfection, not just in the pendants themselves, but the meanings Fenty has decided to remodel and project onto the fashion market. The collection was released on par with a photoshoot directed by photographer Ruth Ossai, a pioneering creative in the fashion world and of Nigerian descent herself. This beautifully constructed campaign showcases the models through their wildly intricate hairstyles, appearing almost as sculptural installations.

If there’s one thing we know, it’s that only Rhianna – through her regal queen status in the industry – is able to make cameos fashionable again. And with a spin at that: not only has she created a collection that screams sleek and timeless in its simple black and white coated

Ioana May Todd discusses how to prepare for the year's most coveted shopping sale

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might have to channel my inner psychic with this article, as I commence with the everyone favourite sale season.

There's one thing I can tell you for certain; the plumes of rabid public will be leaking through waves of the high street, in a sea of bobbing heads buoying in one direction of discounts. It’s that time of year again.

I’m here to save you the hassle; to save you the drowning in the depths of crowds as we settle in for yet another sale. For this year’s Black Friday fashion steals, I've got you covered.

ASOS

design, but one that subverts traditional stereotype and pushes real influence onto the market.

Described by Fenty as “part of a legacy”, Rihanna’s recreation of pieces that point equal focus on history, culture and immaculate design, is marking a path for women to feel empowered. The line is available to buy on the official Fenty website, retailing at £280 for the ring, £320 for the part pendant part brooch, and a mind-blowing £410 for the earrings. Worth it? Absolutely!

Our fashion fixation: Lucy & Yak

Em Richardson shares her fashion favourite setting an example for all brands to follow

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his week we’re talking about Lucy & Yak, the independent brand creating sustainable handmade fashion your going to want to wear after reading.

Speaking as someone who thinks dungarees are appropriate wear for any occasion, I’ve been dreaming of a pair of Lucy & Yak dungarees for some time. I just love the designs available, ranging from rainbow pastels and stripes, to dark coloured cords.

When my family asked what I’d like for my birthday, I immediately thought of a pair of particularly lovely teal dungarees, found on the Lucy & Yak website. Although my birthday isn’t until the end of the month, I know my dream dungarees are wrapped and ready and, having already tried them on for size, the wait is killing me! The vivid colours look even better in person, and the quality is superb, with the cord being wonderfully thick and warm.

I’m also attracted to Lucy & Yak because of their commitment to being eco-friendly, and treating their workers ethically. The brand began when the owners started making fabric pouches, selling them to make money whilst travelling.

Upon returning to the UK, they decided to branch out into mak-

ing whole pairs of dungarees.

Lucy & Yak also strive to lessen their environmental impact. Their main warehouse in India is 100% solar-powered, and they’re working on making production 100% plastic-free. Every item of Lucy & Yak clothing arrives in a biodegradable mailing bag, and any paper used in packaging is 100% recycled. Over 90% of materials used by the brand are organic, and any off-cuts are re-used to make more dungarees.

Faulty pairs are sold for a dis counte d price on Depop and, to encourage customers to ‘recycle’ damaged items, t he y’re working on launching a repair service.

The only obvious downside of Lucy & Yak is the relatively high price but, I would argue, it’s a price worth paying for a product that somehow manages to be high-quality, fashionable, and ethical.

Black Friday bargains

Using the compass of last year’s deals for direction, put your feet up when battling for fashion with one of the UK’s most popular online fashion retailers. With the prediction they’ll be tempting us with up to 20% discount on all items, with up to 70% off on the ASOS Outlet, you’re covered for every seasonal look.

Topshop

If last year is anything to go by, buying from Topshop is a must when they are tempting a 50% discount on all full-price products. Both accessible on the high street and online, whether you opt for appealing to your style feelings instore, or would rather snuggle up and let the laptop do the finding for you, either way, that 50% off will be right there for you.

H&M

Tip: set up your H&M Club account online now, and by Black Friday members may be valid for an exclusive extra 10% discount, on top of the even bigger 50% off in-store items which they tempt for the big day. Take a trip, and see what heavenly and marvellous deals can tempt you.

Levis

One pair of these bad boys and you’re set for life, so never has there been a bigger excuse to try it and treat yourself to a potential 30% off all full-price products. Whether it be a pair of fresh cut jeans, or a swish printed ‘Levi’s’ bodysuit that you’ve been considering buying for yourself, or as a potential Christmas present for another, never has there been a time better than now to get it bought.

Instagram: @levis Instagram: @lucyandyak

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Monday 18 November 2019 courier.beauty@ncl.ac.uk Beauty Editor Rashida Campbell-Allen & Ellie James

Beauty Brand Lovin' Column

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Instagram : @seukin beauty

Image: lookfantastic.com

he Ordinary, a brand from DECIEM, burst onto the beauty scene back in 2013 with their incredible retinols that were just a fraction of the price of other retinol products on the market at the time.

Since then, The Ordinary has grown substantially, and now offers a wide range of brilliant products, from cleansers to hair serum to makeup. They only use the best quality ingredients in their formulations, and the company prides itself on honesty. Whilst the vast majority of other beauty brands out there attempt to profit off of our insecurities, with products that promise to give us flawless, glowing skin or make our hair grow six inches in a month, The Ordinary does none of this. Their product information is always very matter of fact and doesn’t make unrealistic promises about the capabilities of their products. In fact, they often include disclaimers within product information to avoid creating false hopes for the buyer. This being said, their products are really great and do make a noticeable difference.

The high quality of their products and the brand’s honest marketing is not the only praise to sung for The Ordinary, as they are also vegan, cruelty free, come at a super affordable price point, and all their packaging is 100% recyclable.

The Ordinary’s Best Products?

The Ordinary’s Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG is a light-weight eye serum that can help reduce the look of puffiness and darkness under the eyes. It is silicone free, alcohol free and does exactly what it promises.

Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%. Whilst everyone’s skin is different, this cream has really helped to keep my breakouts and rosacea under better control. It sinks into the skin almost immediately, and a little seems to go a really long way.

The Ordinary’s Coverage Foundation gives a natural but high coverage finish. It is super lovely to apply to the skin, and comes in 21 different skin tones, hopefully meaning that nobody is excluded, and everyone can find a great match.

A vegan, cruelty free beauty brand that doesn’t deliberately mislead us and doesn’t break the bank . The Ordinary is an amazing brand that is well worth trying out if you haven’t already!

Rachel Makinson

beauty life & style

Black Girl Beauty: the new VH1 series launches on YouTube

Image: Pixabay

Beauty Editor Rashida Campbell-Allen tells us about a YouTube series everyone should be watching

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n November 2nd a new six episode series, Black Girl Beauty, launched on VH1 YouTube channel, a platform upon which entertainment journalist, Gia Peppers, hosts and mediates discussion about Black women and their personal experiences of all things beauty and hair. Peppers prides herself on taking up spaces that empower and contribute to the collective progression of a generation.

VH1 and Gia Peppers’ collaboration is a much needed nod to the conversation black women all around the world are and ought to be having today. From the official trailer my intrigue was sparked simply because I had not seen a show like it. It’s Jada Pinkett-Smith roundtable inspired style, made it both relatable but an easy watch. It quite literally feels like watching a conversation that I have with my own sisters, mum and black women in my life which are often kept behind closed doors. But Peppers clearly believed it was time to bring those conversations out onto a public platform and I am totally here for it.

Conversation navigates from self-confidence and expression, to nails, then through to embracing the kinky curls of an afro

Every Saturday a new episode is released and so far there have been three. In episode one Peppers was joined by Felicia Walker, beauty blogger and Editor in Chief of ThisThatBeauty and Julee Wilson, global beauty director of Essence magazine, in which they spoke on the theme of representation and inclusion in the beauty industry, especially the effect of lack of the aforementioned on their sense of value and self. This show is embeds a real sense of support and peer support, as initiated by firstly making compliments and recognising each others beauty.

Instagram: @vh1blackgirlbeauty

They then went on to reflect on black women in history and the impact of the 1960s ‘Black is Beautiful’ movement has on their sense of self today in 2019.

Conversation navigated from self-confidence and expression, to nails, then through to embracing the kinky curls of an afro. What was particularly interesting about this episode was the focus on collaboration and how important is was for both women of colour and not of colour to have these discussions to teach one another in order for maximum progress to be made. The second episode welcomed Love & Hip-Hop Miami star, Amara La Negra and social media influencer Eloho, and the discourse turned to the controversial topic of colorism and skin-lightening. They even covered the social phenomenon of blackfishing, a term referring to

the way in which someone changes their visual appearance on social media or in real life to appear as black or cultural ambiguous through using make-up, hair products and treatments and even surgery.

The third looked at the links into cultural appropriation and appreciation which is a pressing issue in pop culture today when it comes to black beauty in particular as it can lead to a profit being made off of those often marginalised whilst undermining their efforts.

Here in the UK there is a lack of these sort of spaces, yet I believe it is only a matter of time before we start discussing Black British beauty. Though this was only the series’ first three episodes, they felt strangely familiar, and arguably this highlights how necessary and real the show is.

Seasonal shadows worth the winter investment As the temperature slowly drops, Charley Moran tells us which fall and winter palettes are really worth our Student Finance W

inter and fall are my favourite times to favourite of the drugstore collections providing the perfect blending out to help shape the face. shades to contribute to the festive or seasonal look you experiment with eyeshadows. It’s the time colours of oranges, pinks, reds and coppers to create any Moving onto the winter palettes. The first one to are going for. The shimmers all shout Christmas with of year where we can use warm, bold colours look that screams Autumn. The pigmentation is strong, invest in is the Morphe 35G bronze goals palette, and golds, silver and darker shimmers which help to create to create a look that simply defines the season. We will however you'll need to layer it on to get that bold colour although it comes under the higher price category it is the perfect party night look for balls or work nights out be exploring fall and winter palettes you must have in on the lid. Although more time is required for blending, still relatively affordable at £24. This palette and can also be toned down for a day to day look. The your make up bag. The lucky thing with eyeshadow it has a stunning airbrushed finish with presents a domination of all kinds of palette includes five different shades which means it really palettes is that you can get both affordable and higher t h e colours shimmers does have something for everyone inside. If you want a costing products best suited to your budget and style. with matte matte golden look or for your eyes to sparkle Firstly, going in with the fall palettes. The and reflect the celebration of the classic absolute dream is the Anastasia Beverly Christmas look the this is the palette for hills Renaissance, this is flooding with you. stunning colours having berry shades, Finally we will look at the more rustic reds, subtle oranges and pinks affordable winter palette - the which all combine to bring the perfect NYX Ultimate Shadow palette in autumnal feel. The pigmentation is strong, Phoenix. This pro level palette with creating a smooth and solid blend sixteen high performance shades with a small amount of product. This are perfect for winter, with berry can easily be used by both beginners reds, mustard yellows, silver in makeup and professionals as it shimmers and even shades allows the versatility from natural for a smoky navy look fitting looks but also those seeking out for the winter season. This more experimental looks with the palette is so on trend with bold colours. Although this comes its variety of matte, satin high in the price range it and glitter finishes which is definitely worth the all have an incredible money. blendable formula in There is also a more order to create intense affordable palette and sizzling looks to which is worth spice up your winter investing in and it this year. This product is the Revolution comes at £16 with a Re-loaded Newtrals 4.7/5 star rating on 2 Eye shadow palette.

Superdrug, so I would This is priced at an highly recommend unbelievable £4! Yet it is in this investment. definitely just as good as the These four palettes would all Anastasia palette. Although this be worth investing in to give Im age:lookfanta Pixabay:@monfocus Instagram:@anastasiabeverlyhills stic.com Unsplash:@glowrepose palette has been out for three you the perfect seasonal Image:superdrug.com years it still continues to be a looks.

Left to right --> Pixabay:@Blisko_Przyrody Instagram:@dreamcosmetics_by_namrata_ Unsplash:@olidale

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18

life & style travel

Monday 18 November 2019

courier.travel@ncl.ac.uk Travel Editors: Amy Harris, Meggie Williams and Beth Robson

The devastating effects of travel

Beth Robson discusses the affect tourism has on the countries we visit in light of some major changes in the world of travel

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s wonderful as it is to be able to explore this beautiful planet that we live on, tourism comes too often at a cost for the local people of our ‘bucket list’ destinations. Being conscious of the culture we visit when we go travelling is paramount to getting the most out of these amazing countries.

In the past month there have been two significant changes in the world of travel; Uluru was closed to hikers permanently after years of campaigning by the aboriginal Anangu people after the sacred rock suffered from years of pollution, and Kyoto announced a ban on photography (and subsequent fines) on the private streets of Gion after geiko (geisha) and maiko (geisha apprentices) expressed concerns over harassment from foreign tourists.

As a collective we must strive to make our travelling more culturally conscious

Respecting the cultures and people of countries we visit shouldn’t be difficult; information is at the end of a quick Google search after all, but evidently this doesn’t stop local customs, traditions, and even people being turned into overcrowded, and sometimes dangerous, spectacles by tourists. As a collective we must strive to make our travelling more culturally conscious and responsible otherwise so many beautiful destinations will be closed or destroyed. So how do we do this?

Respecting customs and traditions could be as simple as covering up when you visit a religious site or trying the local food. Yes, these traditions may be ‘odd’ to you, but mocking or laughing at them is incredibly disrespectful, as is gawking and treating them like a circus act rather than an integral part of a country’s culture and history.

In the case of Kyoto, tourists were pulling at geisha’s kimono, harassing them in the streets with selfie sticks and cameras in their faces, and taxis transporting them were mobbed by tourists hoping for a good photo opportunity.

They were commodified; turned into a tourist sight rather than real-life people doing a job and preserving a dying

tradition of Japanese culture. to tourists after over 80% of the coral growing Remember, you’re just an observer to there was destroyed by littering, boats (gethundreds (if not thousands) of years of ting tourists to and from the island), culture in the making. Throughout and sunscreen. Growing very little per history there have been many atyear, it’s going to take years (most likely tempts to wipe out lots of cultures, decades) for the coral to grow back to and yet they have survived against how it once was and regrettably, this the odds and now belong to a is the fault of us, the tourists. Simigroup of incredibly proud people larly, in 2017 the popular Indonesian who for the most part would love tourist destination Bali declared a to share their culture with you. Be“garbage emergency” as many of ing able to take part in new culturthe islands once-stunning beaches al experiences respectfully is such a were inundated with litter from its milgift and so many amazing opportulions of tourists. Big Major Cay in the Bahanities can be found when you hold off on the mas (also known as Pig Island), famous for judgement and experience cultures in their most its feral pig inhabitants, suffered a great authentic form - you’re in a new country after all! loss as seven of their pigs died from It might feel alien at first to take part in a religious consumption of rubbish food or spiritual ceremony that’s completely difand alcohol, given to them by ferent to your own, or eat food you’d never tourists who had flocked to the consider trying at home, but this is where island to see them. memories are made and culture is truly Much like the instance of experienced. It’s also important howUluru where tourists left the rock ever, to remember that the councovered in litter despite pleas tries that you’re visiting aren’t the from the Anangu romanticised versions of Hollypeople not to, wood to be fetishized; this isn’t human indif‘Eat, Pray, Love’ and you probference to our ably aren’t going to “find yourenvironmenself” in India or Thailand (no tal impact matter how much yoga you do on tourist or how many Buddhist destinations retreats you take part is destroying in), but that doesn’t the planets mean you can’t enjoy most beauyour time there and tiful sights, take from it a new species’, and perspective of life. sacred places.

In 2018, ThaiOur planet, land closed already sufferMaya Bay ing from the Image: Daniel Bachler from Wikicommons on Ko Phi effects of global Phi Leh island warming, must

be protected and nurtured so please, pick up your litter and don’t touch or feed the local wildlife when you go travelling. On the same note, respect places that are sacred to the people regardless as to whether you agree with the beliefs or not If we are to continue to see these beautiful destinations, and experience their awe-inspiring cultures, we must change how we approach tourism before it’s too late. The solution? Be respectful, be open, and leave nothing but footprints for the most culture-conscious travelling experiences.

For more information on 'ecotourism' visit ecotourism.org

Sights to see whilst in Miami Image: Daniel Bachler from Wikicommons

Kate Dunkerton shares her top six amazing things to do whilst on an action-packed holiday in the beautiful Miami, Florida

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n the immortal words of Will Smith “Welcome to Miami”! Located in south Florida, Miami Beach is the ideal holiday destination for those who love great shopping, nightlife, cool décor, sunbathing on white sands and tropical weather. Walking along the pristine sands of Miami's South Beach and the iconic Ocean Drive, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to a movie-set or music video in this amazing and vibrant city.

You'll feel like you've been transported to a movie-set or music video

Italian restaurant: Gianni’s. Located across the bridge in downtown Miami, visit Wynwood, a district best known for its colourful murals and artwork by street artists. Besides the Wynwood Walls, the district is home to art galleries and quirky cocktail bars.

2. Lincoln Road and Collins Avenue For shopaholics, Miami Beach has a variety of options.

Lincoln Road is home to affordable shopping, with plenty of high-street stores including Urban Outfitters and Victoria’s Secret. A highlight is Dylan’s Candy Bar, selling traditional American candy. For those who like luxury, Collins Avenue and Ocean Drive has a large shopping district with designer stores including Armani, Guess and Tommy Hilfiger. Before all this sightseeing, foodies will love a hearty breakfast at Big Pink, a pastel pink tra-

Image Credits: Brett VA from Flickr

ditional American diner also located on Collins Avenue.

Although a stack of pancakes will set you back $14, the portions more than make up for the price. If you’re on more of a budget, head to Rosetta Bakery, a cozy Italian family-run bakery selling delicious sandwiches and pastries.

3. South Beach The gorgeous white sands of South Beach are perfect for

Ro ck Cafécloth- ing.

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.

Image Credits: Baysidemarketplace from Wikicommons

Image Credits: Mike McBey from Flickr

Image: Ed Webster from Flickr

1. Ocean Drive Start your holiday by strolling down Ocean Drive, South Beach’s most famous street which is buzzing during the day and night. This is where you can see the pastel art deco buildings, people watch and visit Gianni Versace’s house. If you’re lucky enough you can book a table at the

sunbathing, sipping Miami Beach cocktails, and strolling along; covering 2.5 miles of Miami Beach. It is accessible via most hotels which are situated right on the beach and are a stone's throw from the ocean. A must when visiting the beach is a picture with a colourful lifeguard hut at sunset, which were born for Instagrammable shots. Talk about paradise!

4. Everglades National Park If you want to venture out of Miami for a mini-trip, head just a 40-minute drive west to the Everglades National Park, a vast green wetland home to wildlife including alligators, manatees and endangered turtles. Only one of two Everglades National Parks on the planet, the other located in Australia, the Everglades are a must-visit for fans of nature and wildlife.Expensive start-up costs 5. Bayside Marketplace Just over Collins Bridge in downtown Miami is Bayside Marketplace an entertainment and shopping area surrounded by the banks of Biscayne Bay. There are fun activities such as renting a jet ski and boat trips where you can see the homes of the stars as well as the Miami skyline. Bayside Marketplace sells much cheap memorabilia including affordable sweatshirts and hoodies from stalls, which are different and less expensive than the average Hard

Brickell For those lucky enough to be 21, Miami is famous for its roof-top bar scene. You can venture out of Miami Beach to the up-and-coming downtown neighbourhood of Brickell, known for its bars which allow ongoing views of Miami Beach. You may even catch sight of no other than Jennifer Lopez who is said to call Brickell her home!

Miami Beach has something for everyone, whether that be non-stop nightlife, family-friendly sightseeing or simply chilling on the beach, Miami Beach will guarantee to leave unforgettable memories which will give you serious holiday-blues.

Miami Beach will guarantee to leave unforgettable memories

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travel life & style

Monday 18 Novermber 2019

Surviving dreaded layovers Wanderlust in a snap shot Heidi-Faye Bates shares her best tips on how to survive layovers

Em Richardson shares her top four travel Instagram accounts

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hen you’re planning your next trip, there’s no better source of inspiration than Instagram. Filled with pictures of dreamy scenery and golden beaches, it’s sure to pop a destination or two on your travel bucketlist. With that in mind, I’m here to point you in the direction of some of the best travel accounts out there.

1. Kiki at @theblondeabroad

Image: @theblondeabroad

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ayover. The dreaded final obstacle to your backpacking adventure, two weeks in the sun or summer field trip. Whilst a couple of hours in the airport is exciting (mainly due to the destination at the end), no one chooses a layover because they like spending time in airports, but because either it’s the only or the cheapest option.

Once you’ve wandered through the rows of over-sized Toblerone bars and tested every perfume in duty free, grabbed some ridiculously overpriced food and checked the departure board for the 100th time, what else is there to do? Fear not, having recently spent 12 hours in Lisbon airport, here are some top tips for surviving those endless hours in the no man’s land terrain we like to call airports.

The key to survival is to break the layover up into smaller chunks, hour by hour. Firstly, go off and explore, not just the usual spots, but everywhere as you’d be surprised at what you might find. In Lisbon, I found a room full of 20 vending machines that sold every-

Image: jeshots.com from Pixabay

thing from nappies, to shower gel, playing cards to pot noodles. Safe to say I wasted an hour (and a hefty sum of money) in there. Some airports even have layover rooms where you can take a shower, however these can be pricey and often only available limited hours.

Once you’ve exhausted the exploration, find a seat, somewhere comfy (it’s usually impossible to sleep with those big, clumsy armrests blocking any attempt at lying down) and with a charging point, which often is a lengthy task.

Next, download a book, Netflix or even Duolingo to swat up on your language skills for the holiday or research and plan what to do at your destination.

Finally, get off twitter, complaining about how bored you are, and talk to people to find out where your fellow travellers are headed. A concept which may seem scary in today’s day and age, but you usually hear the best stories from people in airports and time passes much quicker.

Besides, you haven’t got much else to do right, and who knows, you might even make a friend?

Teach the future of Taiwan W

Mimi Wang shares what it's like teaching preschool in Taiwan hy teach in Asia? The typical answer is to do fects mother tongue ability depends on the mentality and something wonderful and adventurous that methods of teaching. Children in preschool learn best might change your life forever. It is about when content taught replicates real-life and can be intemaking positive connections with one another as well grated into daily life, and focuses on cultivating language as enjoying different cultures through travelling and learning. When a child learns vocabulary that has nothdelicious food. ing to do with his or her life experience, excessive emphaBilingual English and Mandarin preschools have be- sis on outcomes is only counterproductive. come popular in Asia. In order to cope with the emerUnder the current teaching criteria, there are three main gence of globalisation and fierce competition, the educa- methods of teaching which are widely used in Taiwan; tion system is arranged so that children learn language Steiner Waldorf education, Thematic approach, and skills at an earlier age. This trend is in response to social Montessori education. Steiner Waldorf values - ‘winning at the starting line’- which has education advocated to communibeen a mainstream philosophy in educacate with nature and values inner tion in East Asia. Parents are worried development. Thematic apthat their children are incapable of proach is a way of teaching adapting to the quickly globalising and learning many areas of world, so they enroll their chilthe curriculum. Montesdren in schools where they can sori education is based get ahead. on self-directed activity, For me, coming from East hands-on learning and Asia, and having an expericollaborative play, and ence of being a preschool highly trained teachers teacher before, this article is offer age-appropriate an observation story about my activities to guide the experience of teaching in Taiprocess. wan. In the past, the culture was In my opinion, the relatively conservative in Taiwan; preschool I have stayed preschool was a prerequisite for in feels like a fusion of primary school and children sat in the Thematic approach classrooms learning how to read, write, and Montessori education. and do maths instead of playing which was I designed the activities under considered a "waste of time". As time goes a theme and let children make on, the education system has changed and is something by themselves. For examnot what it used to be but there are some shadows ple, if speaking of 'lanterns' (which is under left of the old system. the theme of the 'festival'), I would initiate the Learning English is considered the discussion with children about their Image: maciej326 from Pixabay most competitive skill because it is the knowledge of festivals and prepare most extensive and widespread lansimple lanterns for them to make. guage in the world; this is very advantageous for native It is clear to see that children are like blank sheets of English speakers who can have more opportunities to paper; their behaviour is a mirror of what they see and teach abroad. There are some concerns however that what they have been taught across many cultures. Expehave emerged from some studies that have shown that riencing different education systems can help you reflect children who learn foreign languages too early would be on how you were taught in your home country and how negatively influenced in their native language develop- your education shaped you; if you have the chance, come ment. However, whether learning foreign languages af- teach in Asia and see what you think!

Since quitting her office job six years ago, Kiki has visited over 70 countries, and splits her time between her original home of California, and Cape Town, South Africa. So far, this sounds fairly typical for a full-time travel blogger. However, what I love about Kiki, and what makes her different from some of her fellow bloggers, is her determination to ‘give back’ to the local communities she visits. She has always donated to charitable causes in the areas she visits, starting when she raised $5,500 towards college scholarships for three Peruvian girls. She is particularly passionate about feminist causes, including decreasing female illiteracy in South America. If you want tips on how to travel ethically, and how to enjoy local culture without being exploitative, then give Kiki a follow, and check out her website for some helpful blog posts.

2. Maria at @mariathepilot

Image: @mariathepilot

Maria is a Swedish airline pilot, based in the stunning Canary Islands, who offers her followers a glimpse into the life of a pilot, and the stunning destinations she visits. According to her blog, only 5% of pilots are female, and Maria offers a valuable insight into working in a male-dominated industry.

I love the way she encourages other young women to pursue their aviation-based dreams. Plus, she posts some stunning pictures of the places she’s lucky enough to visit. Again, she’s a travel blogger who offers something a little different.

3. Valerie at @trustedtravelgirl

Image: @trustedtravelgirl

Valerie is passionate about celebrating and experiencing other cultures, and focusses on ‘living like a local’. She aims to visit the places tourists usually ignore. As a life-long lover of adventures and travelling, she offers many insightful travel tips. She also aims to ‘give back’ to the places she visits, visiting orphanages in Mexico to aid in charitable outreach. Since Valerie prefers to travel alone, her hints and tips are particularly useful for solo female travellers.

4. Lee at @leeabbamonte

Image: @leeabbamonte

Amazingly, Lee has visited every country in the world, including the North and South Poles. He has travelled everywhere from Easter Island, to Timbuktu, to the Faroe Islands, and is a member of the Royal Geographical Society. His Instagram is full of photos from some of the remotest places on Earth, as well as helpful travel tips. To me, Lee serves as a firm reminder that anything is possible, and dreams are there to be chased.

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21

food life & style

Monday 18 November 2019

Food Editors: Cayla Viner & Amanda Goh

Veganism 101: how to be vegan in Newcastle V

Image: Brooke Lark (unsplash)

eganism has not always been as widely popular as it is today. However, with the growing threat of the meat industry and its role in climate change, more and more young people have begun opting for this highly nutritional and environmentally friendly diet. Whilst this shift may initially appear difficult and pose countless health questions, the benefits that come from this change are actually quite astonishing.

With the constantly changing world that we live in today, the options available for vegans in supermarkets is truly incredible and difficult to fault. As our population is moving towards a completely plant-based diet, supermarkets around the globe are all doing their part to ensure every customer is catered for. One in particular which has made a remarkable step in recent weeks is Tesco.

Whether a pizza or a burger, you will always be spoilt for choice

Over the past few weeks, this company have been developing a brand-new vegan range that has been coined Plant Chef.

With its colourful packaging and wide range of products, this has been one of the most successful line of products to hit supermarket shelves, and with its abundance of outlets in and around Newcastle we are spoilt for choice. Tesco is not the only one to have branched out with this new trend. The likes of Aldi, ASDA and Marks and Spencer have all joined in on expanding their range of products to suit the increasingly fluctuating consumer market.

Waitress? More like wait-stress Film Editor Lucy Lillystone shares her waitressing experience

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y summer working as a waitress can be described as possibly one of the worst times in my life. And I most definitely do not want to go back if I can avoid it.

Firstly, the atmosphere. From the other side of the table, a restaurant may look cool, calm and collected; it is anything but. While we are painting a smile on our face and being friendly, in the back or in the kitchen, really we’re chatting shit about how long the queue is for a table; why a table keep ordering more drinks when all we want to do is clean up and go home; but mostly, why the customers are complaining about the food to us when it’s not our fault?

We only bring the food from the kitchen, we don’t cook it ourselves so to kick up a fight with the waitress is honestly the worst thing.

And then there’s the pay. During my time as a waitress I got £6 an hour (minimum wage) plus tips which usually came out at about £10 a week. But considering I was doing 8-10 hour shifts almost 3-4 days a week, I definitely felt like I deserved more. Especially when a lot of customers don’t tip you anyway if you’re working in a restaurant that is high-end and already costs a bomb. This was the case for me and so tips usually ended up being £3-6 a week rather than the promised £10.

Clearing plates is absolutely the most disgusting thing ever.

Speaking of restaurant hours aka. another form of torture, were almost definitely illegal. For example, I once came in at 12pm and didn’t leave until 10pm. And while this may seem normal to some people, consider the fact that I was only allowed ONE break throughout those 10 hours and for a total of 30 minutes… let’s just say my feet were absolutely killing by the end of the day. Running around serving food, cleaning tables, making drinks and taking orders is not as fun as the waitresses make it look like.

And then there’s the grime. Clearing plates is absolutely the most disgusting thing ever. Scraping all those leftover mushy peas off someone’s plate nearly made me bork every time. And it’s not like you can take your time so that you don’t get it everywhere, protect your nails or even avoid dropping the knife into the bin (this happened

multiple times in the restaurant I worked in that the manager had to order multiple sets of cutlery at least once a month) because you’ve got other stuff to be doing! There’s never time to pause in the world of waitresses and it is one of the most disgusting jobs ever. Let’s not even get into the spillage of sauce

on your uniform or the bottom of your shoes…

Finally, while you’re sat admiring the view, catching up with your pal in the restaurant, I am sweating myself to death. During the summer, working as a waitress is almost definitely the worst. Running around none stop, working next to the kitchen and the lack of air con isn’t good for a girl’s mood or her hair… Doing the job is hard enough when it’s normal temperature but when it’s absolutely scorching, it’s unbearable. There was one shift where I almost passed out while cleaning a table. Not pleasant.

So, while the restaurant may look calm, collected and quite an enjoyable place to eat from your position at the table, from a waitresses’ perspective it lacks the glamour and definitely not a job to go into unless you enjoy the graft, grime and shitty pay and hours.

Image: Public Domain Pictures

Dish of the Week: Beshparmak

Its not just supermarkets which have latched onto this growing trend, however. More and more restaurants are actively adapting their menus to provide more choice for vegans.

Wagamama, Zizzi, The Bohemian and Pizza Express are just a few household names that offer exciting new choices specially catered for their vegan customers. Whether its pizza or a burger you will always be spoilt for choice!

Image: Wikimedia Commons

B

The great asset that Newcastle has to offer is its abundance in markets

eing an international student, I have been exposed to a variety of foreign culture cuisines.

Living in the UK I have tried dishes from all over the world.

However, there is always a special kind of satisfaction and comfort in my own country’s traditional dishes.

This is why I want to introduce to you one of the Kazakhs’ famous dishes: Beshparmak. It is native not only to Kazakhstan, but also Bashkortostan, Karakalpakstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tatarstan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan.

As a custom Beshparmak, translated to English as “five fingers”, is generally eaten from one tabak (huge plate) with your hands. It is a dish shared between a big number of people during family celebrations or country wide festivities. Its main ingredients are meat (horse meat is used more often in my country), zhayma (rectangular shaped noodles), potatoes and onions.

Overall, traditional dishes of Kazakhstan are heavily meat-based. Some of the other dishes I would recommend you to try, given the chance, are Baursaks and Kazy, as well as such drinks as Kumys, Shubat and Ayran. Of course it is possible to cook each dish at home in any country, but the best place to try them is in the country of origin cooked by a native Kazakh. They are well worth tasting at least once in a lifetime so make sure you do!

Aruzhan Sagynay

As students we all know the struggle of sticking to a lowbudget meal plan that often does not involve eating out.

The great asset that Newcastle has to offer is its abundance in markets. Whether its one of the street vendors on Northumberland Street or the famous Grainger Market, they have everything you need to whip up a quick and easy meal. Built in 1835, Grainger Market has always been the hub of city centre shopping.

Located right next to Eldon Square, this market is easily accessible and always leaves you feeling wholesome. Stalls upon stalls of fresh fruit and veg line this extravagant structure, offering food at discounted prices. The fact that all its products are locally sourced not only makes this a fresh food heaven, but also allows us to give something back to the community.

Newcastle is a city increasingly focused on providing for its minority food groups and never fails to disappoint in its array of options available. Whether you’re hitting the town for a meal out or cooking at home, you will never be at a loss for fresh and vibrant produce ready to whip up for your vegan meal.

Madeleine Raine

M&S to sell vegan wine Editor Grace Dean shares the latest scoop on the upcoming vegan wine range coming to Marks & Spencer

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Marks & Spencer has made a mark for itself in the grocery industry by announcing that all its own-label wines will be vegan by 2022.

Following M&S’s introduction of vegetarian-friendly wines in 1998 and vegan-friendly wines in 2005, the retail giant has gone on to now have 70% of its own-label wines certified as vegan.

Discussing the pledge, M&S Winemaker Sue Daniels says: “We’ve made this commitment as part of our overall aim to make M&S products more relevant to more customers and to take action to reflect their changing dietary demands.”

Though maybe not within the price range of most students, M&S has recently introduced a new vegan Christmas offering to the market; meal deal fanatics will be eager to try the supermarket’s Plant Kitchen Nutcracker Sandwich, which stars a sweet potato, chestnut and cranberry roast accompanied by butternut squash, cranberry chutney, pistachios, caramelised pecans and an almond butter vegan mayo dressing.

Though not a direct competitor of M&S,

Wine often includes animal-based ingredients including egg whites

retail rival Spar has similarly pledged to ensure all of its own-label wine is vegan but on a much tighter timescale, as the discount chain has expressed hopes to introduce this by 2021. Similar to M&S, Spar currently lists around 70% of its own-label wines as vegan, closely followed by Waitrose at 65%. Similar emphasis on the provision of vegan and organic wines has been echoed by many major UK grocery retailers including Aldi. Of the big four, Morrisons

Image: P xHe

re

ranks the lowest, with 63 of its 619 wines on offer online listed as vegan, which equates to barely 10% Majestic Wine, which is the United Kingdom’s largest specialist retailer of wine and coincidentally based in Gosforth, has announced that approximately 20% of its wines are currently vegan, but has revealed vegan, vegetarian and organic wines to be a key focus for its range review.

Wine traditionally includes animal-based ingredients including egg whites, milk protein, animal gelatine and isinglass, a fish bladder protein.

Wine is naturally cloudy, and during the clarification process, which is known as “fining”, these animalbased ingredients are added r k c li F Image: to removes proteins, yeast and other molecules that cloud the wine. Wine can also clear naturally, but this is a much slower process and depends on the wine being left untouched for months. While these animal-based products using in the fining process are just processing agents which don’t remain in the wine, and are suitable for vegetarians, wines which have been fined using these products are deemed non-vegan.

Some fining processes, however, are vegan; carbon and clay-based fining ingredients, alongside pea protein and vegetable gelatine, are becoming increasingly popular.

the courier

22

culture music

Monday 18 November 2019

c2.music@ncl.ac.uk Music Editors Dom Lee, Jagoda Waszkowiak & Joe Smith

The bands are back in to

In an age of disappearing musicians, our writers discuss w Finlay Holden

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ampire Weekends fourth record, Father of the Bride was finally released in May 2019 after 6 years of al-

most complete radio silence.

It was only briefly preluded by the release of a few album tracks and festival performances in the run-up. They are an act with legacy that is essentially a new band in today’s c l i m a t e after such a long hiatus.

Undeniably catchy indie-pop tunes ‘A-Punk’ and ‘Unbelievers’ are the soundtrack to many people’s childhoods, so it is extremely strange to see them reemerge with effectively the same sound, but it works so well. The album resonates just as well as the previous three, and ‘Harmony Hall’ in particular joins among the ranks of these classic songs.

It was unexpected that the record would be sonically similar same despite the massive changes the band has

Vampire Weekend continue to be an iconic act faced over the gap in releases, and it would be easy to expect that the comeback record would be a disappointment or misstep If you enjoyed their previous releases, there is no doubt that you’ll love Father of the Bride in equal measure, and with it being an 18-track LP there is certainly a lot to dive into.

Vampire Weekend continue to prove themselves to be an iconic pop-friendly indie act, or maybe indieleaning pop act – either way their appeal is undeniable.

Image: Instagram @arze

Grace

A

fter six long and miserable years apart, My Chemical Romance fans worldwide are rejoicing over the news that the punk pop band are finally getting back together.

For many members of our generations, the formative years of our lives came accompanied with an MCR soundtrack. Our first crush was on Gerard Way, our first band t-shirt featured the foursome, and they were our inspiration to start learning the guitar.

We were angsty teens when Danger Days was released, and we lived for the high we felt when ‘Helena’ played, chanted along to ‘Teenagers’ and wept over the sombre lyrics of ‘The Black Parade’.

The news of the band’s reunion has come as a surprise to many, but also as a delight. Will the band still hold the same magic, however, now that we’re older?

Although for many of us it was The Black Parade that first introduced us to the wonderfully dark and alluring world of MCR, it is Three Cheers for Sweet Revenge that is for me the epitome of the band. It’s loud, it’s brash, and it’s unapologetically emotional. From the adrenaline rush felt during ‘Give ‘Em Hell, Kid’ to the surprising singalong track ‘I’m Not Okay (I Promise)’, this album offers a taste of everything. The Black Parade undoubtedly has its merits, too; described as their answer to The Beatles’ Sgt Pepper album, or Queen’s quintessential Bohemian Rhapsody, the album offers a smorgasbord of songs to dance to, songs to sing to, songs to scream to and songs to cry to. If the band reached their peak with the widespread success of The Black Image: Wi Parade, however, their 2010 release Danger Days:

Chats with the Courier: Declan Welsh and the Decadent West

Finlay Holden chats to Declan Welsh (minus the Decadent West) before their Halloween show at THINK TANK

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uring soundcheck before his first headline gig since his debut album release, politicallycharged Scottish musician Declan Welsh was able to chat backstage with Finlay Holden at THINK TANK about his career, upbringing and opinions on his music – on Halloween no less!

When did you start producing music?

I started when I was in high school, then stopped during uni before taking a year out to try and write some stuff. That’s when it all started to then kick off a bit; it’s been a long journey but this now has become really serious over 2 or 3 years.

The uni stuff all came about because in a creative job you still need money. I’m full-time musician timewise but moneywise I still have to do parttime stuff for Glasgow uni. We got top ten in Scotland but it is a very small country – we’re the most well attended for football games in Europe, but no ground is ever full because there’s just no one in

Image: Instagram @declanwelsh

Scotland.

What did you study at university?

I studied Law at Strathclyde University and then did a masters in Philosophy at Glasgow. That makes me double unemployable, as a philosophy graduate and a musician.

I think I must have just

hated the idea of money.

How did growing up in Glasgow affect your music?

Where I grew up was in the suburbs of Glasgow so there wasn’t much going on, there was a big shopping centre and not much else. I think growing up somewhere like that makes you fascinated with people watching because there’s nothing else to do, so you sort of become obsessed with finding a route out of the boredom.

Moving into the city properly when I was 18 gave me the proper Glaswegian sensibility of sentimentality and also abrasiveness, you’re as likely to end up getting drunk and hugging some random in the pub as you are to start a fight with them.

How big is the band ‘The Decadent West’?

It’s me and three guys, Duncan on guitar, Murray on drums and Ben on bass. We’ve been together a long time, me and Ben have been in a band together since school, Duncan joined in university and Murray was the last piece.

This is a significant Halloween for you guys?

Yeah, we’ve done a headline tour before but this is the first gig of the first tour after the album. We’re very excited to have Egyptian Blue supporting us here tonight, they’re class. They’ve been on the Jack Saunders’ show and Radio 6 and stuff so we’re buzzing to play after them, and Cat Ryan’s tunes seem decent too.

Do you have one show you’ve played so far that stands out as being the best?

We were in Hamburg last year for a festival and we played just this massive church and it was proper amazing, it was absolutely filled and by the end, everyone was stood up. Glasgow is always a good time, I’m looking forward to our show there on this tour at St Luke’s, but it’s always much more surprising when you go somewhere where you have no idea if anyone will know your music and see how the crowd reacts.

Where did you last play in Newcastle?

We sold out Riverside on our last headline – it was upstairs in Riverside though, don’t want to get too ahead of myself there. It was really cool, I liked it a lot and I’ve also heard very good things about THINK TANK. How come you’re not currently wearing a Halloween

costume?

We really were trying to get costumes and then we got stuck in Glasgow crazy traffic. I might go get some vampire fangs and just do the most half-assed Halloween costume ever. We’re definitely gonna be going out tonight either way.

I read an article that described your album as more of a collection of singles – what do you think about that statement?

That isn’t intentional – we recorded them across two sessions, same people, same studio. Sonically I think he was saying it’s like an Elton John album in that a lot of the tracks are punchy and like singles.

I think they’re all single-worthy, in my own opinion, and I mean thankfully that review was very nice. We’ve had some people say that all the songs are too similar, and others say that the songs are too diverse even though it’s the same album they’re listening to. Reviews can great but after the first few I learnt to not let it get to my head.

Are there any singles that you really wanted to put on the album?

Most of the stuff was new, because we thought it would be better to bring people in with more new material than reuse old stuff, but there was a couple I wanted to make it; there’s one called Useless that I really like, the only reason that didn’t make it is because that’s the first single we recorded with Chris Marshall and he was great then but he’s a genius now, and I reckon that together we could get a better version of that later on. I would love to release it on an EP or the next album or something like that.

Is ‘Useless’ your favourite track of yours then?

I don’t know, it changes all the time, my favourite right now is ‘Be Mine’ off the new album which is a big love tune, as I’m a sucker for that kinda stuff.

Declan Welsh and The Decadent West give a ferocious, politically charged live performance, and you can catch them on their current UK headline tour. Their debut album Cheaply Bought, Expensively Sold is out now.

Image: Finlay Holden

the courier

23

Monday 18 November 2019

@culture_courier thecourieronline.co.uk/music

music culture

own : the best musical comebacks

which artists have come back better than ever and whether the old magic is still there

e Dean

The True Lives of the Fabulous Killjoys must have been somewhat of a crash. While it succeeded in attracting many new fans to the band, for MCR’s loyal followers this album came ultimately as a disappointment and saw the band grow away from their roots by developing a much more pop feel to cater to the mainstream masses with elements of power pop and electronic rock. Their trademark black was replaced with orange and red (and I’m not just talking about Gerard Way’s hair), and instead of The Black Parade’s central motifs of The Patient and Mother Death, a spider and the Killjoys suddenly took centre stage. While by no means a bad album, Danger Days was a huge shift away from what many fans associate with MCR. What will their reunion bring? Their December tour will undoubtedly heavily feature a lot of content from The Black Parade, but any attempts at new material remain unknown. Will the band return to their punk pop roots or will this reunion mark a new beginning for the four? One thing is certain, though; the news of their return has got me cranking up their bangers in the Courier office, and if they tour in Newcastle I’ll be buying tickets quicker than you can say Planetary (GO!) Wikimedia Commons, Stuart Sevastos

LIVE: Twin Atlantic 5th November, Utilita Arena

T

win Atlantic have opened for Catfish and the Bottlemen time and time again but with performances like this its easy to see why!

I am going to start this review by confessing my bias towards Twin Atlantic – I’ve been a fan of the band since their debut album in 2011 so I was delighted to get the chance to see them live.

The band have announced their fifth album release for January – their first new music since 2016. With this in mind, I was expecting only a small number of the Catfish crowd to know Twin Atlantic but believed the band would be able to win over some fans over in the duration of their set.

However, I needn’t have worried – from the very first song of the set ‘The Chaser’ the audience were singing along and there was even a mosh pit in the standing area (always the sign of a good night to come)!

The band, especially lead singer Sam McTrusty, were very energetic on stage which the audience were loving and clearly demonstrating their approval.

The crowd were enthusiastic throughput the set and this didn’t even wane in the band’s two new songs. ‘Volcano’ and ‘Novocaine’ are the latest singles from the band and were only released in October so it was heartwarming for me to see many in the crowd already knew the songs and were clearly enjoying their first opportunity to see them performed live.

The shortness of the set was probably my biggest complaint of the night as the band only played eight songs – whilst this was enough for them to showcase songs off each of the albums, it would’ve been nice to see a few more performances of their older material.

For me, their set reminded me of why I love Twin Atlantic so much, they performed with Heart and Soul (ba-dumtsh) and showcased a variety of their songs which I know and love!

The band next play Newcastle on their headline UK tour in March to support the release of their new album and you can be sure I will be there!

Eloise Doherty

Tom Moorcroft

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es, that’s right. The politically outspoken American punk/nu metal group, who brought us cult classics such as ‘Bulls on Parade’ and ‘Killing In The Name’, are back for their first tour dates since 2011: Rage Against The Machine. After discovering their music on Guitar Hero 3 - Legends of Rock, a game which greatly influenced a lot of my music taste, I was hooked onto their combination of head-rocking, punchy bass along with the innovation of guitar genius Tom Morello.

So when I googled them to discover they weren’t together anymore, a part of me was gutted: I wouldn’t be able to see them live. The year was 2012, and after coming back for a brief period of time, between 2007-2011, they’d announced they wouldn’t be touring anymore. This was followed by band members Morello, Wilk and Commerford announcing their own supergroup: Prophets of Rage.

So you can only imagine the moment when I opened twitter a couple weeks ago, and saw people mentioning a ‘RATM’ reunion. I didn’t think twice of it; half of my music twitter feed is people desperately clutching at straws, trying to convince themselves that the impossible is probable. However, when I headed over to their twitter, and saw that they really had confirmed 5 North America shows at the beginning of next year, I was amazed. The band which I’d been desperate to see, who had been on an 8 year hiatus, were actually coming back.

Along with their announcements of new shows, in typical in-

ternet fashion, people have been speculating Rage Against The Machine UK tour dates over the course of next year. Personally, I’d love to see them in the UK at some point, and with rumours spreading on them performing at Reading and Leeds 2020, a hopeful part of me thinks it could actually happen.

The band hasn’t performed at Reading and Leeds festivals since 2008, so to see them play in 2020 would be huge. It’ll be their first performance together in this new political climate, with the sameold problems, so it’ll be interesting to see if they still bring that heavy, politically-motivated energy.

FKA Twigs MAGDALENE

Earl Sweatshirt Feet of Clay

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AGDELANE is the second album from the incredible FKA Twigs and with astonishing production and vocals, it’s her greatest work

yet.

The album is a fusion of all that is good from a vast array of genres including and not limited to classical, soul, R&B and pop. With phenomenal production done mainly by Twigs herself, this album is one of the best of the year and blows Twigs’ 2014 album LP1 out of the water.

A plethora of ethereal instruments The album gains inspiration from the complex New Testament character, Mary Magdalene and how her character has been altered by years of constant change by the oppressive nature of male figures within the church. ‘thousand eyes’ opens the album. It’s a hypnotising mix of layered medieval-like and classical vocals over a steady, pounding drum and simplistic, yet beautiful piano flow together perfectly for the songs first half before it becomes a more experimental synth-based piece.

‘Holy Terrain’ is the only song on the album with a featuring artist. Future holds his acclaim well and delivers a fantastic verse but is overshadowed by Twigs’ insane vocal talent. ‘Mary Magdalene’ starts slow and features a plethora of ethereal instruments creating a perfect ambience, before breaking down into an incredible array of stunning noise.

Perhaps my favourite song on the record is ‘Fallen Alien’.

Twigs shows a fierce aggression on this song, “When you fall asleep, I’ll kick you down” she sings before a heavy bass kicks in and her singing style turns into a spiteful sneer.

The album is finished by the first single released ‘cellophane’. Twigs reflects on a past relationship here when she asks “Didn’t I do it for you?” in a truly heart-breaking track and a perfect end to an incredible album.

Joe Smith

W

ith an album out on 17 January 2020 called Everything Else Has Gone Wrong, Bombay Bicycle Club are back on the indie scene.

The new single ‘Eat, Sleep, Wake (Nothing But You)’ is both old Bombay and completely fresh, catchy enough to get new fans and satisfy the old.

The new single sets the album in the right direction for success in the new year The new sound has the electronic sound of songs like ‘Feel’ mixed together with the instrumental sound of ‘Shuffle’ and ‘Luna’.

With a comeback album over a gap of 5 years the band would have to bring something fresh to the scene which reflects both the current scene and their old style, and I think the new single sets the album in the right direction for success in the new year.

The comeback wasn’t started off with a normal tour of new songs but instead the band celebrated 10 years of their debut album by playing four more intimate venues and playing I Had the Blues But I Shook Them Loose in full.

The band are touring in 2020 the new album, with 5 gigs already sold out, including Ally Pally in London, and are playing the O2 Academy in Newcastle on 27 January.

Image: Instagram @bombayinsta

T

he unmistakeable flow of Earl Sweatshirt’s lyrics is a style which has changed very little over the course of his career, giving the rapper a signature style which few can match.

Feet of Clay sees Earl loosen up this style slightly delivering verses at a higher tempo, whilst still delivering the same emotion with each bar. The EP is a short one at just 7 songs delivered in 15 minutes, meaning it is unlikely to reach the heights of his previous releases but still has significance in his discography.

Lyrically, Earl delves deeper into his psyche, possibly revealing more about himself than on previous releases.

Particularly on ‘TISK TISK/COOKIES’, the rapper rhymes about how much he misses his father and how the loss is affecting him and making him question himself and his future.

Feet of Clay heavily draws on the New York rap scene ‘EL TORO COMBO MEAL’ is another highlight on the album, drawing influences from soul music while Earl further draws upon the impact that his fathers’ death has had on him In comparison to Some Rap Songs, Earl’s latest EP sees him move from lo-fi instrumentals to a slightly cleaner sound. The production as always is superb, with a combination of traditional instruments such as pianos and accordions and electronic sounds. Instrumentally, Feet of Clay heavily draws on the New York rap scene and with this combination of instruments, it may offer a glimpse into hip-hop’s past and its future.

By no means a perfect release, Feet of Clay still delivers in all of the important areas that Earl’s work is known for and may act as the perfect transition piece into another era-defining album.

Dominic Lee

Hope Lynes

WIN 2 TICKETS! Professor Green at Venue

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he incredible Professor Green is coming to Newcastle touring his latest EP M.O.T.H on Friday 22 November and we’re giving you the chance to go see him!

Having been a staple in the UK rap scene for nearly ten years Professor Green (AKA Stephen Manderson) has accumulated two top 3 albums and over 3.5 million sales in the UK alone! He has also presented critically acclaimed documentaries for both the BBC and Channel 4.

His eleven date M.O.T.H. tour kicks off on 16 November and he’s hitting Newcastle University Students Union on Friday 22!

To enter the competion and win yourself a pair of tickets to his Newcastle show, all you have to do is email us the answer to this qustion: On his 2010 hit ‘Just be Good to Green’ which 90s song is sampled?

Email us your answers at c2.music@ newcastle.ac.uk by Wednesday 20 for a chance to win! The winners will be notified via email!

Image: Flickr Eva Rinaldi

/The CourierMusic @culture_courier

24

culture TV TV Time Travel Freaks and Geeks

Elisabetta Pulcini reviews cult classic

D

espite its short lived television run, Freaks and Geeks changed the way teenagers are portrayed on television. Never afraid to shine a light on the ‘unpopular’ kids, this show is funny, thoughtful and full of heart.

Set in the 1980s, the shows follows teenager Lindsey Weir (Linda Cardellini) and her younger brother Sam (John Francis Daley) in their daily struggles as they attempt to survive through high school. Though the premise is based on the titular social groups, the show employs the rest of its run questioning their rigidity, and eventually breaking them down. For example, in its portrayal of the ‘geeks’, the show doesn’t rely on stereotypes, but rather creates people that could fit into that social group. It stands out from shows like The Big Bang Theory, which exploit unrealistic stereotypes to draw their characters as broad caricatures: Freaks and Geeks delves deeper into geek culture in one season than the sitcom did in twelve.

the courier

Monday 18 November 2019

c2.tv@ncl.ac.uk TV Editors Amy Brown, Sophie Hicks & Will Nsieyanji

Amazon Prime's prime TV picks

Amanda Goh discusses her top six picks from Amazon Prime that Netflix is missing out on

W

hile some may argue that Netflix is way better than Amazon Prime, I may beg to differ. Yes Netflix does give us a myriad of movies to watch, but Amazon Prime is the place to be for all your wonderful TV series.

The Office US Of course, The Office has to be on the list. And not the British one, the American one. The Office is an American sitcom of a group of office workers in Pennsylvania. Not only can you watch this lighthearted show in the background, it is great for procrastination. Given that there are over 150 episodes, the sitcom still remains fresh and each episode adds greater depth to the characters.

Grey’s Anatomy

Grey’s Anatomy is another American Drama Series and also one of the longest scripted TV series in the US. The series is entered around the personal and professional lives of surgical interns and supervisors. The series is jammed packed with emotions and will constantly tug on your heart strings. You should be warned, you will get hooked on this series.

Downton Abbey

Why Downton Abbey is not on UK Netflix will always be a mystery to me. This British drama series depicts the lives of the Crawley family in the post-Edwardian era. Throughout the film it shows historical events having an impact on their lives and the social hierarchy in Britain. There is also a movie spin off to this well-loved show. try. (but watch the series first!)

The Man in the High Castle

One of the great things about Amazon is that it has many original series, and The Man in the High Castle is one of the best.

This show follows an interesting take on history: What if the Nazis won World War Two? It's a thrilling and creepy dystopia, executive produced by the esteemed Ridney Scott (Blade Runner) and is sure not to disappoint.

Parks and Recreation

Mr Robot Mr Robot is hard to describe, but the broad storyline is that a man called Elliot Alderson who is a computer software designer and is asked to take down the company he works for by a rebellious group who are anti-capitslism. It can be hard to follow at times, but I have never found another show quite like it.

Images: IMDb

This American political satire sitcom revolves around Leslie Knope, deputy director of the parks and recreation department in Pawnee. The show also incorporates current events into episodes, such as a government shutdown in Pawnee inspired by the real-life global financial crisis. Michael Schur, who has also written other series such as The Good Place and Brooklyn Nine-Nine, gave me high expectations for this show to which I was not disappointed.

His Dark Materials: the biggest BBC show ever?

Most of the protagonists George Gardner discusses the new TV adaptation of the classic novels starring James McAvoy ome of my fondest memories of His Dark Mate- companion that follows them Gyptians, a society that lives completely on canal boats, went on to become rials, the Philip Pullman children’s book trilogy around. It is grounded, in a way are all dressed like they’ve been shopping at an upmarket that ran from 1995 to 2000, involve schoolyard I never thought His Dark MaOxfam. It is a lived-in world, a world you can relate to huge stars

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The strong point of this series is its young cast.

Through unpretentious performances, the actors are able to craft incredibly flawed and realistic characters. It is not surprising that most of the protagonists went on to become huge stars: Linda Cardellini, Seth Rogen, James Franco, Jason Segel and Busy Philips just to name a few.

This particularly stands out in the relationships formed between the characters, which feel incredibly real. At the same time, while the charisma of the group of ‘freaks’ is undeniable, it is the family dinner scenes with Lindsey and Sam that create some of the biggest laughs, mainly due to the perfect performances from their parents, played by Joe Flaherty and Becky Ann Baker.

While the ending was abrupt in reality, with NBC cancelling it after one season due to poor ratings, the show is never hurt by it. Although the story could have continued, the finale feels natural, and not rushed: this is because of the fully realised character arcs, carefully crafted by the writers. For example, a lesser show would have reduced the role of Daniel to be the object of Lindsey’s interest, characterizing him only through her eyes as the charming ‘bad guy’. However, he is made into her foil: while by the end of the show she learns to let it go and chase happiness, he finds a passion to embrace, and give him purpose With so many TV shows today pandering to teens in all the wrong ways, it is refreshing to watch a show that does not talk down to its audience.

Image: IMDb

games in which you would visualise what daemon you would have. It was like choosing your Hogwarts House but for animal lovers. Daemons, the physical manifestation of your soul in the form of a pet, are just one of the many concepts being brought onto the small screen this month.

His Dark Materials qualifies as the BBC’s most expensive series they have ever produced- although doubtless the budget is small potatoes to HBO, the show’s co-creator, seeing as Game of Thrones cost a cool $10 million an episode. It is certainly the most expensive, but is it the biggest? Special effects are like air conditioning: when they’re working properly, you don’t know that they’re there. Every penny of the budget is put to use, but the end product, and the choices that they make, go beyond schmaltzy CGI. The first five minutes serves essentially as a mission statement for everything that His Dark Materials is going to do, by showing Lord Asriel- played by an effortlessly charismatic and dangerous James McAvoy- emerge out of a helicopter clutching the infant Lyra Belacqua, wading through a flooded Oxford to plea for ‘scholastic sanctuary’. This should immediately tell the viewer several things. Firstly, the modern helicopter seems to suggest that the series is not going to go for the same steampunk victoriana aesthetic as the book and film, opting instead for a very ‘modern’ feel- indeed, one may question why anyone would use an airship if helicopters are available. Secondly, the fantastic visual of a flooded Oxford is not taken from the original trilogy, but from Pullman’s 2017 prequel La Belle Sauvage, the first in the Book of Dust series. And finally, the reference to sanctuary shows that the series is going to stick to its guns with all of the biting religious commentary that made it the Catholic Church’s preferred choice of kindling back in the day.

But if the Victorian elements are lost, we gain a sense of realism that we’ve never had before. The world feels just like ours, except where everyone has an animal

terials could be. The airships are solid, bulky stainless steel creations, with the interior reminding me more of a busy bus commute than anything Jules Verne ever wrote. The daemons are thrillingly wellrealised; I didn’t even blink when I saw a snow leopard lolloping among a group of caped undergraduates. The

on a fundamental level.

That is where the BBC adaptation succeeds most; by pairing the fantasy elements with the real human interactions that they excel at. We can look past the trappings and engage with the richly drawn characters: of Dafne Keen’s Lyra, indefatigably curious and involved in something far bigger than her; of James McAvoy’s Asriel, a powerful man caged by the bars of academia, and of Ruth Wilson’s Mrs Coulter, balanced on a k n i feedge of maternal glamour and mu rderous ruthlessness. After a thrilling first episode, the prospect of Lin-Manuel Miranda is reason enough for anyone to continue.

Image: IMDb

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Monday 18 November 2019

The End of the F***ing World Ruby Osborne discusses the new season of the dark comedy

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arning: This article contains spoilers. After ending The End of the F***ing World Series 1 on a major cliffhanger two years ago, fans were quick to theorise how the show would ever continue as the source material, a graphic novel by Charles Forsman, had been exhausted in the first season. The release of the Season 2 trailer only brought about more questions. Why is Alyssa in a wedding dress? Would we see James again? Whose ashes are those? And who the hell is Bonnie?

Unfortunately, only one of these questions was answered in Episode 1. We meet a new character, Bonnie, in her own traumatic childhood, and soon learn about her connection to the pair. Although establishing Bonnie’s backstory let us get to know her, I wondered whether an entire episode dedicated to solely her was necessary, I was itching to see Alyssa again, and having to wait until Episode 2 made me impatient.

But it was worth the wait. After that shock reveal, we see the pair embark on another adventure, this time unknowingly pursued by Bonnie, the lover of previously murdered Clive Koch, who is set on vengeance after hearing the news of his death.

This series explores how the traumatic events season 1 affected the duo in different ways. Whereas a lot of television series and films imply that things go back to normal after a traumatic event is over,

REVIEW

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Ultimately very relatable to a young audience

TEOTFW subverts the norm. It explores character complexities and develops James and Alyssa as people, showing how they’re coping, or not coping.

Despite the absurdity of the events in this show, and the extreme misfortune Alyssa, James, and even Bonnie face, the characters are ultimately very relatable to a young adult audience. A lot of people have dealt with or know someone who has been affected by traumatic events, no matter how big or small they seem, and a show like TEOTFW demonstrates the importance of dealing with it.

This season is full of parallels to the first. This shows the development of the characters after the events of season one, highlighting their change in reactions to certain scenarios, despite the feeling of reliving trauma.

However, it also shows how parts of us stay the same, and all is not lost, even though it can feel like it. Despite having considerably fewer jokes and comic relief this season, it fits the theme that the new series had. If I’d watched a man be murdered in front of me I’d be a bit less sassy too.

TV culture

@culture_courier thecourieronline.co.uk/TV

Images: IMDb

Image: IMDb 8FLiX

Atypical Season 3

n 2019, Netflix has given us lots of third seasons for our favourite shows like Stranger Things, Jessica Jones and Big Mouth. The latest to receive this treatment is the hit show, Atypical.

This wholesome comedy series follows the story of Sam Gardner, a teenager on the autism spectrum as he explores life and relationships. The third season continues this story with Sam starting college and the struggles he comes across.

Season 3 of Atypical is more of the feel-good comedy of the previous seasons which is exactly what was wanted but also delivered on multiple heavy-hitting points throughout the story that keeps you engaged throughout. I don’t know if it’s because I only recently started university myself but I felt that this season was a lot more relatable than previous ones, as the struggles not only undergone by Sam, but other members of the cast, to adjust to the new environment seemed to show how difficult university can be like without the right support. While I did enjoy the main plot around Sam, it was also engaging to continue following other stories in the world like Sam’s sister and their parents and the issues they are facing. Looking back at season 1 and where the characters all end up now, I realise how effective and realistic the development of each of them is, not just Sam. It’s definitely worth a re-watch for that alone.

While previous seasons were criticised for their interpretation of autism, I felt that now entering its third season the Atypical writers have successfully found the right way to represent those on the spectrum so to not be offensive. Actor Keir Gilchrist, despite not being on the spectrum, was chosen for the role of Sam which is partially why there was discontempt within the audience, but also just an overall poor representation of autism in prior seasons. But with seasons progressing it is clear that Gilchrist has gained a better understanding of the character and as a result gives a much more realistic performance.

Other performances in the show were great, especially when coupled with the interesting yet grounded situations they entered be it questioning sexual orientation, losing friends or divorce. Sam’s family moments come across as hilarious.

Season 3 was a great addition to the series improving on all aspects of the last seasons with loads of laughs and heartfelt moments and I can’t wait for season 3.

George Bell

Is meta better? The rise & eyes breaking the fourth wall TV Editor Amy Brown talks the rise of meta in TV shows, and how fourth wall breaks succeed in TV shows Fleabag and Barry W e’re living in a time now where boundaries are constantly being pushed. TV shows are an ideal outlet for directorial creativity. Nothing has to be traditional. Works of fiction are recognising themselves as fiction.

The idea of the ‘meta’ isn’t just a new idea, along with the fourth wall break. Characters have been addressing the audience forever. Shakespeare was even fond of this.

Fourth wall shattering is a popular comedy trope, used in shows such as The Office and Malcolm in the Middle.

It can be funny, or when placed in a more serious genre, a little unnerving. We can feel like a character ourselves, or even feel like we’re intruding in on the scene. It heightens our experience of a show when done correctly. As viewers, we’re always looking for more; something we don’t expect. Here’s just two examples that I can’t get out of my head.

You can’t talk the fourth wall without talking about Fleabag (2016-19). I’m never going to shut up about this show. Minor spoiler warning ahead! Phoebe WallerBridge has taken the fourth wall trope and ran with it for both seasons of her show. It is done so brilliantly; it’s no wonder we get so attached to the character of Fleabag.

She frequently talks at the camera and spares glances, smirks and winks in our direction. An interpretation is that we, the audience, become the role of her best friend Boo, whom she lost. Season two digs a little deeper.

When we meet the Priest, the object of Fleabag’s affections, her connection to us falters. There are instances where she will talk to us and the Priest notices. He questions it and asks her where she keeps disappearing to.

It was a moment I didn’t expect and it floors me every time I re-watch it. We see this thing we’ve gotten used to break down slowly as Fleabag learns to no longer need us.

Bill Hader uses this trope in a uniquely unsettling way

HBO’s Barry (2018-present) incorporates the meta in a similar but less frequent way. The show, directed, co-written, and starring Bill Hader, follows his character who yearns to leave his job as a hitman behind and become an actor in LA. The show sets itself apart by criticising Hollywood and frequently using meta humour.

Our title character breaks the fourth wall only a couple of times. It hits in a different way than Fleabag. It feels like we’re watching Barry act; perhaps watching him act like he’s not a murderer?

In an attempt to avoid spoilers, I won’t provide too much context but Barry speaks the words “starting…

Images: YouTube now” to the cam-

era in season one. It has likeness to the cue to start an acting scene, which is effectively what he’s doing. It gets a little confusing when you dig deep but that’s the appeal of it. It has many possible meanings. The way Barry does it is considerably more ambiguous than Fleabag, who looks at the camera mutliple times per episode.

Bill Hader uses this meta trope in a uniquely unsettling

way and it’s pretty genius. It sets Barry apart from many other new shows on right now. These examples demonstrate how, when used in a clever way, the fourth wall break can change the whole viewing experience. We're thrown into the world of the show. We’re now looking ahead into a new age of TV; one where boundaries can be crossed. Creatively, nothing is off limits.

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culture film Coming Soon!

Image: Pixabay

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he World Wars are genre defining films and have been for years: a new addition to this is Sam Mendes’ new feature that comes out early next year. Already it’s been linked to some very experienced names such as Benedict Cumberbatch and Colin Firth. Does it have the ability to live up to its cast?

The story is based around two young soldiers charged with delivering a message across the front line, a message that will save 1600 soldiers including one of their brothers. There’s no doubt that it is an ambitious project, with Mendes working with the cinematography god Roger Deakins to create the effect of the film being shot in real time and in one shot.

This film is expected to have epic sequences but also to show the extremes of human loss

Mendes is no stranger to a challenge. His role as a director on the epic Skyfall in 2012 is one of the reasons this film is so anticipated. There are high expectations of a fresh take being brought to the long standing genre of war films.

This film is expected to have epic sequences but also to show the extremes of human loss, with themes from the film being based from real life memoirs. A story to be handled carefully, Mendes is an experienced director however this film is his first feature length writing credit a new challenge that could make or break this film, as the intimate nature of choosing to follow the journey of two characters, the writing is crucial to the audience’s relationship with them.

$100m

George Bell discusses the weird and wonderful film projects that didn't get off the ground

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he process of getting a project the momentum it needs to get into Hollywood is difficult and most end up not being successful. Some of the projects that don’t make it had the potential to be great and their loss is a tragedy. For others, it's probably better that they’ll never see the light of day and others that’ll just make you go “Wait they almost did what?”.

This article will focus on the latter of the three with some of the weirdest projects that were almost a reality.

with it apparently attempting to a be a true comic adaptation with some truly amazing plot points. This includes things like Jack Black’s character moving the Earth out of the way of an asteroid and literally willing Superman into existence.

Before Henry Cavill, there was another who could have potentially donned the red and blue tights of Superman: Nick Cage. Trying to picture the star of The Wicker Man and National Treasure playing the calm, mild-mannered man of steel is hilarious with his eccentric and over the top performances. This is made all the better with the fact that Tim Burton was in line to direct it. Titled Superman Lives the combination of Nicholas Cage, Tim Burton and writer Kevin Smith (Tusk, Daredevil) was sure to make this flick one of the weirdest ever.

The Beatles are obviously known for their music but they have also had a successful film career with several movies with high ratings. However, one movie that they potentially could have starred in was Lord of the Rings. It’s weird to think that the iconic Peter Jacks on trilogy could have gone very differently with members of t h e legendary band b e ing in key roles of the story. But before you start picturing them as the four hobbits, its crazy to realize that while Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr would have played Frodo and Sam, George Harrison and John Lennon would have played Gandalf and Gollum respectively. Trying to picture anyone other than Ian McKellen and Andy Serkis in those roles is impossible and I for one am grateful that this idea was cast into Mount Doom.

Although he has touched on war before, in his 2005 Jarhead, set during the Gulf War, this time he turns back the clock to the First World War, mixing his old expertise with new territory, leading me to believe this could be an exciting delve into a new story in a setting we all know.

This universally anticipated film is released 10th January 2020, and will hopefully be a valuable addition to our screens.

Eve Ducker

Image: IMDB

Silver Surfer Rock Opera

The only live adaptation we have had of the silver surfer was Laurence Fishburne in 2007’s Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer which was less than well-received. But there was almost another on-screen rendition of the surfer which was more than a bit different: A Silver surfer rock opera. Producer Lee Kramer (Xanadu) desperately wanted to accomplish this in 1980 which would have been scored by Paul McCartney. According to Kramer if it had been made he believes it would have been on the same scale as 2001: A Space Oddessy.

E.T. The extra spooky horror film

One of the most iconic sci-fi movies of the 1980s, E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, we got one of the best kid fantasies of all time. However, there were rumours of a sequel that completely changed the tone of the blockbuster into a horror film. The plot was apparently set around the kids getting kidnapped by a new monstrous species of aliens only to be saved by E.T. But not before the kids get tortured…

This sudden change in the genre would have likely traumatized families in theatres expecting another feel-good story about a boy and his alien but rather got another Alien, hence why it got cancelled.

Jack Black as Green Lantern

Ryan Reynold’s Green Lantern movie is iconic for being one of the worst superhero movies of all time. Hence, while a certainly a bizarre concept, Jack Black playing the green space cop had the potential to be a lot better

The Beatles: Lord of the Rings

Image: Flickr:AndrewGuyton

Let It Snow (12)

Image: Youtube

The reported budget for the film

Monday 18 November 2019

Sergeant Pepper's lonely Hobbits club band

Nicolas Cage as Superman

Image: Youtube

the courier

c2.film@ncl.ac.uk Film Editors: Elisabetta Pulcini, Joe Holloran, Lucy Lillystone & Steven Ross

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ohn Green fans, rejoice!

After years of silence on the film and tv-front since The Fault in Our Stars broke our hearts all over again after the book, comes the Netflix adaptation of Let It Snow, the book co-written with Maureen Johnson and Lauren Myracle and now directed by Luke Snellin (My Mad Fat Diary, The A Word and Wanderlust).

For non-nerdfighters amongst us, Let It Snow is a young adult novel, following three relationships amidst turmoil of Christmas and the snow. Due to the films abnormally short running time (93 minutes), a lot of this sadly gets cut away, but thankfully not to the detriment of the film itself.

And before you write this off as ‘just another Netflix film’, I have two arguments to make. 1.

They got Joan Cusack to drive around in a pick-up truck wearing a tinfoil hat and coat, and 2. There’s actually a lot of important and relevant themes explored here, like family illness, sexuality and the impact of social media. They aren’t right at the forefront of the film, but they’re definitely there.

Never-mind why Joan Cusack is wearing so much tinfoil.

You’ll laugh, if you’re anything like me – you’ll cry a lot, and you’ll go out and buy the book the next day, and you’ll want to watch it all over again. It’s a beautiful, if not flawed, portrayal of being young this time of year. We all want to be someone. We all want to be with someone. Let It Snow reminds us of the beauty in the things and relationships we already have.

Harriet Metcalfe

The Areonauts (PG)

Spider-man

Peter Lennon anticipates the future

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Image: Youtube

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he Aeronauts is a film set in the Victorian era about a weather scientist James Glaisher, played

by Eddie Redmayne, and air balloon pilot Amelia Rennes, played by Felicity Jones, who travel high in the sky in a humongous hot air balloon in search of the ability to predict future weather.

When it comes to The Aeronauts it has received a lot of criticism from historians as the film is meant to be based on the flight of James Glaisher and Henry Coxwell who is replaced in the film by the fictional character of Amelia Rennes. While I don't particularly care about whether films take historical liberties for the sake of story, I can understand why people may get annoyed by the erasing of one of the leading aeronauts of the 20th century.

What was striking about the film was some of the stunning imagery of the skies that actually made one feel like one was in a hot air balloon staring at a sunset. I also rather enjoyed the numbers that would appear on the screen to show how long the aeronauts were in the sky.

However, that’s where the positives of the film end for me.

The film was an eternal bore that even the hot air balloon action scenes couldn't save. The film starts with one of the most bizarre opening credit scenes in cinema. Furthermore, the production design didn’t make one feel that they were in 19th century London but rather a fancy-dress party. The writing was particularly strange and the cinematography bland.

A lot of people in the screening I was in seemed to enjoy it but I guess it wasn’t my cup of tea.

Nicholas Lyon

ollowing the critical and commercial success of Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse, Sony has officially announced a sequel dated for an April 2022 release. The announcement has come as no surprise, with the beloved 2018 hit having stormed Hollywood with Best Animated Picture wins at the 91st Academy Awards, 46th Annie Awards, and 76th Golden Globe Awards.

The success of the original flick shouldn’t come as any surprise. The story was excellent, the cast were superb and, most importantly, the animation was fantastically innovative. In maintaining a comic book-esque style while playing with frame rates, Spider-Verse conjured an experience that felt unique and distinct, which let it conquer the yearly offerings of Pixar and Disney.

Indeed, this is where this news isn’t just great for audiences, but for studios. Disney’s franchise monopoly, already consisting of all other Marvel properties and Star Wars, and their tried and tested formula have

All images: IMDB

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Monday 18 November 2019

@Courier_Film thecourieronline.co.uk/film

RDJ's marvellous resurgence

Kate Dunkerton brings us up to speed on Downey Jr's rocky career from charlie to Chaplin

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ne of the recurring themes in Hollywood is to become famous, have more fame and money than they know what to do with, have a fall from grace through critical and commercial flops or, in extreme cases, alcohol and substance abuse. For some, their fall has resulted in a career resurgence, in which the actor has become more respected and successful.

The most notable career resurgence for an actor comes in the form of Robert Downey Jr. Going from fame and fortune to hitting an all-time low through alcohol and drug addiction, his ability to comeback as one of the most bankable stars in Hollywood is a story for the ages.

He was nominated for an Oscar for Chaplin, whilst struggling with addiction

After gaining a starring role in legal comedy Ally McBeal, his career and personal life hit rock-bottom, being fired from the show for his drug addiction despite boosting ratings for the series and garnering critical attention, winning a Golden-Globe for best supporting actor in a mini-series or television film. After spending 6 months in Los Angeles County jail for missing a drug-test in 1997, Downey checked himself into rehab for a year. In this time, he was fired from his second television show, God, the Devil and Bob, taking a voice-role as the devil for the NBC series. Not only did Downey’s addiction affect his own career, but others including Mel Gibson, who had to cancel his stage production of Hamlet in 2001 due to his incarceration.

Robert Downey Jr. gained popularity in the 80s, starring in John Hughes’ comedy Weird Science before giving a harrowing performance as a drugaddicted teenager in the adaptation of Bret Easton Ellis’

novel Less than Zero. Downey’s career continued to surge when he was nominated for an Oscar for Chaplin in 1992, all whilst battling his struggle with drug addiction since childhood.

Despite being caught in a seemingly hopeless situation, both personally and in his career, Downey emerged as a new person following his ability to remain sober in Hollywood.

His career resurged u p o n being cast as

ent r tm a p De dia ia ipe orn, Wik f i l a s : C ion age ect Im Corr of

wealthy tech mogul and industrialist turned superhero Tony Stark in Jon Favreau’s Iron Man, the first in the solo trilogy.

Downey emerged as the leader of the Avengers, starring in 11 Marvel movies, excluding the upcoming Black Widow standalone movie, and becoming one of the most recognisable characters in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Within the same year as his Marvel debut, Downey starred in Tropic Thunder, a satirical ac-

tion-comedy co-starring Ben Stiller and Jack Black. Tropic Thunder demonstrated Downey’s comedic ability in the film-withina-film, portraying an Australian method actor who undergoes a radical transformation to portray an AfricanAmerican soldier.

The role earned Downey his second Academy Award nomination for best supporting actor, alongside much critical and fan adoration.

Within a year following his emergence as Iron Man, Downey portrayed another hero in Guy Ritchie’s Sherlock Holmes, cementing Downey’s status as a leading man. As an actor who has battled intense drug addiction and career failures, Downey’s story proves it is possible for an actor’s career and public image to resurge with dedication. Now credited as being the reason for the billion-dollar franchise that is the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Robert Downey Jr’s fall from grace to becoming one of the most respected actors of his generation proves not all Hollywood scandals will kill an actor’s career for good.

n swings himself into a sequel

e of Miles Morales and his team in the highly anticipated Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse sequel held them at the top of the food chain for years as an invincible entity. But Sony has finally made them draw blood and, with a bit of hope, the other studios of Hollywood will step up in the world of animation as well.

Behind the scenes of the sequel are some creative changes. Bob Persichetti, Peter Ramsey, and Rodney Rothman are stepping down as co-directors, with Joaquim Dos Santos taking over their duties. If not by name, Santos should be familiar to many animation fans as a prominent director of Justice League: Unlimited and the final season of Avatar: The Last Airbender, both acclaimed for their animation and mature themes. Although its hard to say goodbye to those that made the original a success, the choice to bring on such a talent could very well be strategic and even crucial in continuing Spider-Verse’s legacy of innovation.

As for the screenplay, Rothman and Phil Lord are being succeeded by David Callaham. The choice is a curious one, not just for this particular sequel, but in Hollywood’s recent fascination with him. In addition to the Spider-Verse sequel, Callaham has also been tapped to write the MCU’s Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings and co-wrote the screenplay for the hotly anticipated Wonder Woman 1984. This sudden uptake in work is interesting when considering that his prior work on throwaway projects, such as Doom (2005) and The Expendables (2010). Of course, stranger things have happened – Scary

Movie 3 scribe Craig Mazin recently wrote and produced the critically acclaimed Chernobyl – and so it’s only fair to give Callaham the benefit of the doubt.

Morales is the heart of the Spider-Verse and Sony will do well to remember it

Possibilities for the story direction at the moment are really anyone’s guess. Unfortunately, Miles Morales is a relatively new creation, first appearing in 2011, and doesn’t quite have the myriad of villains and stories that Peter Parker has built over his five-decade existence. Moreover, the announcement of a Spider-Women spin-off may also indicate that Morales will be riding this one solo as opposed to the inter-dimensional team-up of the original film. But this could be greatly beneficial to Morales, as a cleanish palette and a clearer focus on him could bring him the forefront, both in the mainstream and in the comics, where his presence has declined following the departure of creator Brian Michael Bendis.

Foregoing the inter-dimensional shenanigans of SpiderVerse, if this is the

route the sequel takes, could initially detract moviegoers from the project, as the concept was so heavily featured in the forefront of the film and marketing. That being said, Morales’ Afro-Latino identity is still likely to be unique in the superhero genre and will certainly continue to be culturally stimulating and diverse when the sequel finally arrives in 2022, while the multiverse concept has already been worn by the CW’s Arrowverse and will be exhausted in the MCU’s Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness (2021). Morales is the heart of the Spider-Verse and Sony will do well to remember it.

film culture Scream On Screens!

Image: Pixabay

Image: IMDB

E

ven though Halloween is long gone, it does not mean we can't continue watching horror films, right?

The latest Jordan Peele project immediately caught my eye when it came out. After his Oscar-winning film Get Out, this show had high expectations for me.

Us follows the Wilson family on vacation where the mother, played by Lupita Nyong'o, starts noticing weird coincidences, leading her to believe that something is about to happen. Just as the ominous feeling intensifies, the family comes face to face with their doubles, the Tethered, which start terrorising them.

Just as the ominous feeling intensifies, the family comes face to face with their doubles

Peele once again avoids African American stereotypes that are in most movies. He consciously depicts the Wilsons as an average financially successful American family. Throughout the movie, he catches our eye through his detail and cinematography.

Peele also subtly sneaks in a few metaphors throughout the film (who doesn't love that, right?).

One of the metaphors Peele mentioned was about "us". He stated in an interview with the Guardian: "We are our own worst enemy, not just as individuals but more importantly as a group, as a family, as a society, as a country, as a world... what we’re really afraid of is the thing we’re suppressing: our sin, our guilt, our contribution to our own demise … No one’s taking responsibility for where we’re at. Owning up, blaming ourselves for our part in the problems of the world is something I’m not seeing."

One of the parts that struck me was the parallelism drawn with Hands Across America. This was a charity event in 1986 that saw 6.5 million people forming a human chain by holding hands across America.

Peele had stated in an interview that "There’s like an insistence that as long as we have each other, we can walk blindly past the ugliness and evil that we may be a part of."

Recently, horror films have been getting more and more predictable (for me at least) with most of them slowly losing their originality. However, Peele was able to surprise me in this film. While it might make you squeal (and maybe scream), it is definitely worth watching.

Amanda Goh

Image: IMDB

/NewcastleCourierFilm @Courier_Film

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culture arts

c2.arts@ncl.ac.uk Arts Editors Caitlin Rawlings, Charlotte Slinger & Lauren Sneath

the courier

Monday 18 November 2019

National Geographic: women in the modern world

Bilyana Yornodova delves into the global nonprofit's new feature on women of the world, curated by its first ever female editor

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oday, 100 years after American women gained the right the vote and despite the global claim for female empowerment, women continue to face a higher level of discrimination in their work and everyday life than men.

Consequently, in order to continue reaching our potential and to

Image: Flickr via Olaf Torsu

achieve new goals in spite of these difficulties, perhaps we should simply look around us for inspiration in other, brilliant women. That is why the latest National Geographic magazine’s issue is important - it is the very first one in which all the involved writers, photographers, artists, and interviewees are women, all of whom will make you rethink what it really means to be a woman in the modern world.

I’m a necessity: the system needs me to help make changes

Back in the 20th century, women were represented only as ‘exotic beauties’ (perhaps thanks to the white men behind the camera) though, together with the evolution of the camera, photography culture saw a gradual shift. Yet, photographs remained connected to the traditional archetypes and ideas – women were portrayed mainly as wives, mothers, sisters – confined to outmoded societal roles. In great contrast to this, this issue documents women who went beyond that – who successfully became scientists, social justice warriors, philanthropists, attorneys and many more.

In the Culture section of this issue of National Geographic you can find six provocative questions, answered by women with different backgrounds. One of the most remarkable responses is that of Oprah Winfrey, the wellknown broadcaster, publisher and entertainer.

She responded to the question: "What is the greatest hurdle you’ve overcome?" with "The disease to please. It happens when we are not raised to know our own value and our own worth".

Another provoking question asked was: "what advice would you give to young women today?" Asha de Vos, the only Sri

Lankan with a Ph.S. in marine mammal research, asserts that females should try their best to be defined by their capacity and accomplishments rather than by their gender and race: "I’m a necessity: the system needs me to help make changes. I would say to any girl out there, that’s what you want to aim for—to be defined not by your gender but by your capabilities" asserted de Vos. One very interesting perspective is the section labelled ‘women warriors’, which illustrates nine markedly strong and brave women. One of them, Fu Hao, is perhaps the earliest woman warrior in history. Emperor Wu Ding’s wife, she was a courageous military commander in her own right, directing many troops and leading campaigns. It is known that her tomb contained more than 100 weapons.

The story of Jessica Reinschmidt is also significant.

When she was six years old, Reinschmidt would often have to wait for her father at the airport. Upon observing the pilots walking through the terminal, she realised she could not count on one hand the number of female pilots. In a stroke of inspiration, she decided to become one, soaring far above stereotypes and social expectations. Forty years later, apart from being a captain for a major airline, she is also among the six percent of pilots who are women. She describes the frequent unpleasant instances she experiences on board, such as a captain thinking she was a passenger, and a flight attendant who refused to work on

board after realising the two captains were women.

Reinschmidt argues that the key is ‘constantly proving that you know how to fly’- not to herself, but to others, though of course it should not be a necessary workplace chore.

Let’s rethink dusty archetypes and antiquated social discourses

There are many others brilliant stories in this issue that can be defined as a powerful response to female stereotypes. They are a reminder that women are more than a gender, but an external character, comprised of all their battles, goals, capabilities, and achievements. It is vital for society to realise that one can be a mother, wife, sister and a scientist, pilot and even warrior without compromise or discrimination. National Geographic, by using female-focused features, reminds us of this. This month’s issue, full of outstanding sections and vivid examples of strong, successful females, should be read by every woman in the world. Let’s rethink dusty archetypes and antiquated social discourses. The past may not have been female, but our future in an ever-changing world will see strong, modern women as a staple.

Image: Wikimedia Commons

Winsome Pinnock: representation and accessibility on stage Rory Cameron gets a chance to interview the author of One Under, as performed by disability representative company Graeae

It’s been nearly 15 years since you first wrote One Under - is there anything that you hoped people might take away from One Under viewing it today, in 2019?

Well, that's a big question - when you write a play you want to provoke thought in people, maybe make them feel something, or connect to the characters you've created. But it's interesting that the play was written 14 years ago and at the time, people didn't really talk about mental health in the way that they do today. So when you're writing in that kind of context, then it's very difficult to find a language…because A, how do you inform yourself about the subject in order to write the play, and B, how do you find that language that will give people access? So that's a really big change that's occurred in the intervening years, in that people do talk more about mental health at all levels of society, and it's difficult to answer that question because the play is what it is, written when it was, when there was a big stigma attached to it. For one of my characters, being a young black man, the way which mental health issues were dealt with…were kind of non-existent, and we see the legacy of it, a sort of criminalisation of a generation, basically - and I'm happy that now there's now a complication about looking at the difficulties within certain communities at seeing and hearing about mental health issues.

Graeae are very inclusive in putting on productions with creative captioning and audio description: what more do you think should be done in the theatrical domain to be more inclusive of those with mental, or physical disabilities?

Working with Graeae is really good for writers, as it changes your own awareness. And this is a revival, so I haven't specifically written One Under for Graeae as such...but I know that other writers have become very aware of this issue and have included deaf or disabled performers in their work, and I think what they have allowed me to understand a little bit more is the way that institutions or structures contribute to perpetuating disability, so things like the captioning and audio description, those things should actually be very normal and always happen in theatre - there should always be access. It's about us changing our whole way of thinking - and I think we're starting to see that in various institutions, even thinking about gender neutral toilets, the whole of society is re-thinking itself so

that even a physical space - well, especially a physical space - is easily accessible and welcoming, so it isn't just seen as what people talk about as 'white spaces', [and] you disrupt that notion of theatre is 'for'. And the captioning in this play is so beautifully done, the design is so wonderful because it's seamlessly integrated into the production, it makes absolute sense, and it arises from the language of the play, so it shows you how you can find creative ways of doing this that are aesthetically interesting as well as necessary.

There should always be access in theatre

When talking about diversifying theatre - you can't do that unless the people you are politically helping are at the centre of your institution. When people talk about statistics or numbers of how many playwrights do this or this many plays have done this, I don't think this has anything to do with numbers, it's a deeper problem than that. [One Under] shows something that, strangely, is quite difficult for people to watch in many ways, which is people across racial divides connecting with each other... people expect to see clear black and white lines drawn between people in plays... but this is about is encouraging people to create alliances rather than be antagonistic.

I found the relationship between Sonny and Nella very interesting, who despite being an adoptive mother and son, seem to know so little about each other. Would you say this is mainly because of race, or does it go much deeper than that?

I think if someone has some sort of mental health crisis, it's very difficult to know them, to understand them sometimes, that can become a very individual experience and what's going on inside someone is difficult to know.

There are all sorts of questions that the play poses, and that's de-

liberate, I think it's for people to ask and answer those questions, or talk about themselves...because it's all there, there's clues in this play, there's subtle indications to the questions one might want to ask, and some are contentious, and the play deliberately avoids making a declaration about them.

Identity seems to be at the heart of it all, this discovery of what we are and what the people around us are, in their own private lives, because essentially that is what we don't know.

Yes, and also people who might - I don't know what other word to use - call themselves 'white', also have to understand who they are, because if they've been educated to think of themselves a particular way, there's a real blind spot there, because there is a lack of knowledge leads to a lack of real self-awareness and that's what makes it difficult to really understand and connect, or even just sympathise with, other people.

That's something that strikes me so much - the inability to sympathise or see other people or hear them, or understand what they're saying, and that is evident in institutional racism, this is what that means: the inability to comprehend what happened at all, if one hasn't been educated enough to really see the world that one is inhabiting, and the behaviours or attitudes that one has inherited at a local or interpersonal level.

For someone who hopes to be a writer like myself, and anyone reading this interview at university, are there any tips you may have for budding playwrights?

A lot, really! But mainly just to be bold, and courageous - theatre seems to have trends and fashions in terms of what you say and how you say it, but I think that people have to be strong enough to write about the world as they perceive and experience it, and as you write the form of the play will take shape. You have to trust that, and really this idea of just splurging words onto the page, and then stepping back and having a look at what's come out, there's real value in that - it's hard to that without censoring yourself, what with the world in your head, and all of us have to struggle with that: it's not an easy thing to do, but you have to try a bit every day - you won't do it all at once!

Rory and Winsome's discussion, covering immigration, race and disability is continued in full on our website: thecourieronline.co.uk/category/culture/arts/

the courier

29

Monday 18 November 2019

@culture_courier thecourieronline.co.uk/arts

More than just a cultural environment?

Editor Grace Dean investigates the museums protecting themselves against climate concerns T he ripples of the climate emergency and the increasing global focus on sustainability are permeating every aspect of modern culture and lifestyle, from the clothes we wear to the food we eat, from our daily commute to our choice of hobbies. But how is climate change affecting the museum sector?

This is a question currently being posed in Germany, where cultural leaders have asked the Minister for Culture to create a central task force to address how museum policy can adapt and respond to changes in our environment. The administrative body is hoped to establish tangible goals related to issues like air conditioning and lighting; because many museums are state-owned, it is up to the government’s climate policy to shape how urgently museums treat this issue.

Over in Vienna, innovative responses to the unique environmental problems that museums face are also being developed. While the Tate in London has attracted attention by recently announcing a climate emergency, the Kunst Haus Wien (Art House of Vienna) has taken much more practical measures by becoming one of Europe’s first museums to qualify for an eco-certification label. Alongside being home to the world’s largest permanent collection of Friedensreich Hundertwasser’s artwork and being one of Vienna’s most popular museums for contemporary photography, the museum is developing ways to integrate climate-friendly processes across the museum. This very much corresponds to Hunderwasser’s ideology, who is famed for his artistic ecological vision and his intention to live as sustainably as possible.

As well as an increased focus on the growing branch of climate change art, with four artists presenting shows there each year that address ecological issues,

the museum has revamped its shop, restaurant, offices and exhibition spaces to reflect developments in ecofriendly technology and facilities. The restaurant now serves only vegan, organic, regional products, which come in reusable containers. Over-packaged products have been phased out of its gift shop.

While museums host climate-themed exhibitions, they don’t reflect this in their dayto-day running

In conversation with ArtNet, Director Bettina Leidl expressed her dissatisfaction that, while many museums host climate-themed exhibitions, they don’t necessary reflect this in their day-to-day running: “If, as an art institution, you take up topics such as sustainability and ecology in order to achieve an effect with the visitor, you should also critically question yourself about how you deal with them in your own organization.”

Examples include The British Museum, The National Portrait Gallery and The Louvre in Paris, which are sponsored by oil companies.

Becoming sustainable is, however, much harder than it first sounds. Some changes are easy to implement, such as switching to low-energy LED lighting and chlorine-free paper, but many museums and galleries are housed in beautiful historic buildings, which sometimes carry ‘listed’ status; the Kunst Haus is unable to have solar panels on the roof because of

its old architecture. When you are an international art museum, you will always have art transport and thus worsen the ecological footprint. You cannot simply decide that you should only show local artists who will bring their paintings by bicycle,” Leidl says.

The eco-developments of the Kunst Haus Wien can be seen echoed elsewhere throughout Austria; three cities in the country are currently applying to be the 2024 European Capital of Culture, but the EU requires that all participating museums are eco-certified.

Leidl perfectly summarises the future of sustainability for museums: “A museum is also a value-producer with a socio-political mission that we have to convey to the public and to visitors. Can art change the climate? No, but art can refine our perception and change our perspective. Numerous artists combine their art with an ecological commitment and get us out of our comfort zone.”

25th-27th November, The Cluny Beautiful Thing, by Jonathan Harvey, is the story of two teenage boys who fall in love on the Thamesmead council estate in South London during the early 90’s. The play deals with themes of class, youth, love and family. Beautiful Thing is poignant, meaningful and thought provoking play but above all else it’s funny, witty and fast-paced. Throughout the play the soundtrack of Cass Elliot flows amongst the action, creating a vibrant and uplifting atmosphere from start to finish. Please come along and watch this production, we promise you that it really will be a beautiful thing!

By Martha Johnson and Beth Rennie

Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare Directed by Hannah Shepherd and Pearl Andrews-Horrigan 28th-30th November, St. Luke’s Church From 1961 to 1989, Berlin was divided physically and ideologically into East and West. Romeo and Juliet, born on opposite sides of The Berlin Wall, fall in love upon first sight. 30 years ago, The Berlin Wall collapsed. Two feuding families - the Montages from the West, the Capulets from the East - were reconciled. But what were the events leading up to its collapse?

By Hannah Shephard and Pearl Andrews-Horrigan

Demand the shine Demand the shade Demand the damp through roots we wade.

Demand the shine to keep you rich to give you life your roots we stitch Demand the shade the cool embrace a murky touch your roots give grace Demand the damp a humid hue the sodden earth sweet roots, hear them coo

The Courier's Creative Writing Corner presents:

Image: Wikimedia Commons

The Panto

Images: Ross Lowton Beautiful Thing by Jonathan Harvey Directed by Martha Johnson and Beth Rennie

Plant

Joe Smith

The NUTS directors preview their upcoming performances set to hit many of Newcastle's venues Romeo & Juliet

Poem Box

Demand the calm Demand a glade Demand yourself harmony, as through roots we wade

Shows worth going NUTS for Beautiful Thing

arts culture

Tweeney Sodd: The Demon Butcher of Toon Spoons by Joe Hodgson Directed by Joe Hodgson and Yeva Creegan 9tth-11th December, The Venue It's Christmas time, And all through the Toon, People go missing, At their local Spoons...

Tweeney Sodd is the chef at a local pub, but when he starts cooking and serving his customers back to them, things get a little out of hand. This December, come down to this fresh new pantomime for jokes, gore and so much more!

By Joe Hodgson and Yeva Creegan

Music and Me: An Internal Monologue

The women I befriended, Bonnie, Tina, Adele, served to enhance my apprehension at growing up. Those poor girls, I would think, who are so upset about men who hurt them. I hope I never have that. And yet, despite the ominous shadow of adulthood which hung around ballads, cigarette dangling from a protruding upper lip and hooded lids watching to grab at their next, prepubescent victim, I was so drawn to the catastrophic kind of love you find in timeless, musical epics. I never connected to happy love songs as much- that all seemed too easy. They seemed smug. I preferred to languish on chaises with my comrade, Tragedy, sigh longingly and watch the world through knowingly jaded eyes. I’m sure I sound like a pretty bizarre child, but the sadness of it, the wretched melancholy of each tremulous note and inconsolable, quivering inflection fascinated me. I wondered how I would feel when those awful trials, which seemed to befall every woman ever, would inevitably be forced upon me.

Of course, no one can avoid leaving childhood behind.

And when those experiences, those unavoidable trials of growing up actually occurred, I looked around for comfort, and there they were. All my old friends waited, arms outstretched and microphone in hand as I ran, sobbing, into their embrace. This time I listened and real experience sang back at me. Real tears, and tears in heartstrings, led to jarring sharps and disappointing flats and life spiralled and spun like an orchestra building to a key change.

When I listened, I could really share in a whole new flood of connections and shared pain, and elation, and laughter, and general nonplussedness at a world which made no sense. A world that was nowhere near as welcoming as grown-ups had always promised.

Now, Maisie Peters is a good friend who lives in the airwaves. She makes me laugh and cry in equal measure.

Saccharine wit drips, in sparkling coils of acid green and fuschia pink, from her lyrics- to be honest, she just gets me. Sometimes I just need a song that epitomises the attitude I used to project which merited my mother calling me a ‘sarky madam’.

Love songs and I currently live together in my studio flat.

It is a pretty harmonious relationship, generally speaking, but ever-mercurial; I scream and spin with happiness to repulsively upbeat musicals one moment and bawl with Billie Eilish the next. My songs and I share candle lit dinners, irrational screaming matches and the odd high-octane, heart wrenching moment swollen with tears.

Whatever my mood, as they run in and out of my body in an exhausting relay, I have a playlist to turn to. A best friend, at the push of a button. And, incidentally, now that I have heard Ariana Grande’s new album, I’ll be ghostin’ the real world in favour of my hairbrush microphone for the foreseeable future.

Lauren Sneath

@TheCourierArts @thecourierarts

30

culture gaming

courier.gaming@ncl.ac.uk Gaming Editors Alex Darbyshire, George Boatfield, James Troughton & Shawn Khoo

the courier

Monday 18 November 2019

Blizzard's non-apology After a chilly month for Blizzard, Editor Grace Dean is here to warm our hearts with a measured look at the controversy so far

B

lizzcon, a weekend convention in Anaheim, California, where thousands of Blizzard Entertainment fans gather every year, traditionally kicks off with an opening ceremony which includes a headline announcement about a new title or game instalment. This year, however, saw a much more sombre introduction, with the weekend starting with an apology by Blizzard President J. Allen Brack.

Blizzard has arguably been a justified victim of a flurry of negative press after the company decided in early October to punish a player who voiced support for recent Hong Kong prodemocracy protests. After winning a tournament of Blizzard’s card battle game Hearthstone, player Blitzchung openly criticised the Chinese government in Mandarin on a live broadcast, saying “liberate Hong Kong, revolution of

our times”. Blizzard consequently removed Blitzchung’s $10,000 winnings and banned him from competitions for 12 months.

A justified victim of a flurry of negative press

This decision faced backlash from fans and employees alike, who argued that this directly opposed Blizzard’s principles of “every voice matters” and “think globally”, and many players uploaded images of themselves uninstalling or cancelling subscriptions to Blizzard games.

Responding to the backlash, the company reduced his ban to six months, but announced that it would continue to enforce limits on non-gaming speech in official company broadcasts.

Defending the decision, Brack wrote: “Every Voice Matters, and we strongly encourage everyone in our community to share their viewpoints in the many places available to express themselves. However, the official broadcast needs to be about the tournament and to be a place where all are welcome. We want to keep the official channels focused on the game.” Despite this, Blizzard later banned three American university Esports players for holding up a poster that said "free Hong Kong, boycott Blizz” during their Hearthstone championship match.

Speaking at this year’s Blizzcon in early November, Brack described how “Blizzard had the opportunity to bring the world together. We did not. We moved too quickly in our decision-making, and then, to make matters worse, we were too slow to talk with all of you.”

“When I think about what I’m most unhappy about, there’s really two things.

The first one is, we didn’t live up to the high standards that we really set for ourselves,

and the second is, we failed in our purpose, and for that, I am sorry and I accept accountability.”

This direct public apology was seemingly received warmly by those present, who cheered at the announcement. Others, however, have dismissed the apology as merely a PR stunt, especially as he did not directly address Blitzchung or suggest further reducing his punishment.

The eyes of the gaming world are on Blizzard and its current lack of positive action

Despite attendees generally showing appreciation for the apology and forgiveness, a crowd had gathered outside the Blizzcon venue to protest against the company’s actions. This included a man dressed as Winnie the Pooh with a photo of Chinese President Xi Jinping taped to his face and a yellow can labelled “HUNNY” filled with fake money in his hand. Interestingly, this man was actually one of multiple who chose to protest outside the venue dressed as Pooh, who is censored in China because of his alleged resemblance to the Chinese President. Other protestors handed out stickers labelled with “Boycott Blizzard” under a black umbrella, which has become a symbol of Hong Kong resistance, and chants of "Blitzchung did nothing wrong - free Hong Kong" were heard.

Whether Blitzchung’s punishment will be fully revoked is unknown, but the company faces making major losses if it shows further inaction. Words may (or, indeed, may not) be well-meaning, but ultimately the eyes of the gaming world are on Blizzard, and its current lack of positive action is taken by many as a sign of the company’s indifference towards its fans, and its focus on profits rather than democracy.

Indie Corner: Raindancer Images: Twitter (IGN, KalebPrime & liopleurodonic) & pixabay

In the second week of our new feature celebrating upcoming indie releases, Stacey Henley takes the reins and goes for a dance

I

t’s worth bearing in mind before you read any further that Raindancer has a usual price of just 79p, and has recently launched with a 51% discount, bringing it down to 39p. So, at the time of writing, it’s cheaper than a single chicken nugget from McDonalds; a pack of six nuggets averages out at 54p a nugget...

This is my kind of saver menu.

Raindancer offers single player and two player, as well as story mode and a more boss-centric Tempest mode: the

following review is based only on the single player story mode. With that and an explanation of the price courtesy of the most nuggety, delicious currency, let’s get on with the review.

79p

the game is available on Steam for the staggeringly low price of under one pound

The first place to start is the obvious Dark Souls comparison. Raindancer sells itself as being Souls inspired, and most of the comments on Steam mention Souls in one way or another. It’s pretty easy to see why: both games share a dark fantasy aesthetic, brilliantly artful enemies, a black velvet soundtrack. To top it all off, neither exactly make things easy on you. Having said that, while it looks and sounds like a Souls game, it doesn’t play like one.

There’s less focus on tactical approaches and attack pat-

terns as there is on timing and taking chances.

Of the whole Soulsborne series, it bears the strongest resemblance to Dark Souls II. But the game it actually feels most similar to, which isn’t exactly what you think of when you call a title ‘Souls inspired’, is Panda Golf. Not only am I completely serious, but I mean that as a massive compliment.

For the uninitiated, Panda Golf is a cartoonish golf sim where you play as a Panda who must perfectly time their strokes to get the ball on the green. It’s the timing aspect which is crucial here, as that’s what Raindancer’s genius attacking system reminded me of.

Rather than just hack, slash and run away, each attack starts a bar moving from left to right. Releasing it in the sweet spot gives you a critical hit with 150% attack damage. As you face tougher bosses, you’re left deciding between whether to get in lots of quick, smaller hits or chance your arm for a more powerful attack. Considering you go the entire game with a one hit kill, the risk/reward feels balanced to perfection.

Gloomy direction, moody rainfall and gothic art

Image: YouTube (Strange Creatures Official)

As for the bosses themselves, the gloomy direction, moody rainfall and gothic art style wrap around you like twisted vines and pull you in deep. The soundtrack is gorgeous throughout, whether that be the melancholy, brooding tones of the boss battles or the crunching leaves under your footsteps. The dark fairytale art is to die for, and if you play anything like me, you will. Several times.

There are five bosses, all touted as unique experiences.

And this is where my one major criticism stems from: they all feel very similar underneath the lavish artwork.

However, the fact that there are no level-ups whatsoever, just perks (called Blessings) you can pick up along the way, make it an engaging and enjoyable experience, even if it is a little short.

the courier

31

Monday 18 November 2019

@culture_courier thecourieronline.co.uk/gaming

gaming culture

Japan honours Miyamoto Stacey Henley reports on how Miyamoto continues to break new ground in the gaming industry

S

higeru Miyamoto has been named a 'Person Of Cultural Merit' in Japan, becoming the first game developer to be awarded the honour. Considering how important the gaming industry is for the island nation, it's no surprise Miyamoto has been recognised as culturally significant.

Shigeru Miyamoto is the first game developer to be awarded the honour

The honour is similar to the Queen's New Year's Honours list, being awarded annually to stand out Japanese figures in science, arts and sports. It has been given by the Prime Minister since 1951 and handed to more than six moto created Super Mario Bros., The Legend Of Zelda, Star Fox, Donkey Kong and Pikmin, along with several other classics. As well as designing so many iconic titles, he also

had a hand in many others, working in production and direction on even more of the greatest games of all time.

Pokémon Red and Blue, Mario Kart, Kirby, Luigi's Mansion, Wii Fit and more all saw Miyamoto aid their development, not to mention his various high level positions at Nintendo itself. It’s likely that no one else in the world has had a greater impact on video games than Shigeru Miyamoto.

40+ million

The number of copies sold of the original Super Mario Bros., making it one of the best-selling games ever

Given the huge impact games can have on popular culture, it stands to reason that Miyamoto qualifies as a 'Personal Of Cultural Merit'. Gaming has been increasingly absorbed by mainstream culture and is finally beginning to be viewed as an art form, so Miyamoto's reception of this award is in keeping with the current trend. A 2016

Statista poll showed that over a third of Japanese adults identify as gamers, the highest figures since records began 20 years previously.

It's likely that no one else in the world has had a greater impact on video games

If you're the driving force in a hobby that a third of your country partakes in, you're not only a 'Person Of Cultural Merit', you're one of the biggest influences on culture full stop.

Image: YouTube (Nintendo Official)

No colourblind mode for Outer Worlds

Resident Courier Gaming blind boy Alex Darbyshire discusses the colourfully progressive news from the Fallout developers

S

ince the advent of video gaming, colour has been a key factor in the visual conveyance of both game mechanics and story. Even something like red explosive barrels rely on our subconscious understanding of colour to be effective features of game design.

But, as many colourblind people would assure, colour is an incredibly subjective medium for the exposition of a game's experience. My red might not be the same as your red, for example.

The Outer Worlds' development team appear to be keenly aware of this. A recent tweet from Obsidian Entertainment developer Josh Sawyer revealed an interesting design decision: The Outer Worlds did not ship with a colourblind mode. This is because, Sawyer's tweet goes, the game was "designed to be playable without color information".

What this means in terms of

game design is that The Outer Worlds compensates for this lack of colour with other, more concrete visual indicators. The developers have made all of these distinct for people of various abilities.

The Outer Worlds was "designed to be playable without colour information"

What was Obsidian's motivation for this bold choice?

Well, it so happens that both of the directors of The Outer Worlds, Tim Cain and

Leonard Boyarsky, both have forms of colourblindness, with Cain's condition making his vision close to monochromatic. It seems that what was convenient for the directors was also convenient for the game's accessibility at the same time.

As someone who has colour-deficiency, I personally think this is a fascinating decision. I've always appreciated games that include a mode for us protanopes, as well as other forms of colour-deficiency. EA have always been excellent in this regard, with Battlefield and Titanfall always boasting a wealth of helpful colour alterations in their options menus. Other games have cottoned on to these features in recent years, such as Grand Theft Auto V and Overwatch. It's refreshing to see the trend suddenly turned on its head with a design choice like this.

Image: IGDB

Death Stranding to reach PC next year Sam Porter Bridges rides from console to PC, but Alex Darbyshire is hesitant to wax lyrical

W

hile Hideo Kojima's games are often brilliant, wacky experiences, PC gamers usually have to deal with the fact that they tend not to come to their platform of choice. However, following a recent tweet from Kojima Productions, it’s now confirmed that Death Stranding will buck this trend, arriving on Windows in “early summer” of 2020.

Ever since the game's announcement during E3 2016, fans had been hoping to see this rather cryptic title come to Windows. However, all of the early trailers were stamped with a PS4 logo, putting these hopes down.

And then, all of a sudden, that changed. The PlayStation branding disappeared and marketing was suddenly angled towards the game itself, rather than the platform it was on, and rumblings of a PC port returned.

Now that this tweet has confirmed the game for PC, it has likely guaranteed an extra stack of money for Kojima Productions, provided that the port to PC is of good quality. This may not be the case, however. Looking back at Metal Gear Solid V’s PC port, it was a mixed bag. The game itself ran smoothly, with plenty of extra graphical options for those who really wanted to get the most out of their system.

Sadly, other staple features for PC gamers, such as ingame audio controls, graceful mouse-and-keyboard

functionality alongside mouse controls in menus, were simply missing entirely. It’s these small, but fundamental features that greatly improve the quality of life for PC users.

As ever with Hideo Kojima, there has been enormous amounts of hype for the game

If there’s a silver lining to this worrying history, one needs to remember that Metal Gear Solid V was under enormous time constraints and budget cuts from series publisher Konami, whose partnership with Kojima has since ended. As Kojima’s first project with total independence, he and his team will be taking all the time they need to ensure that Death Stranding ships in a polished and stable state.

Death Stranding is available for preorder on both Steam

and the Epic Games Store, quelling any worries from fans that the game would be exclusive. As ever with Hideo Kojima, there has been enormous amounts of hype, which should hopefully put a little pressure on KojiPro to do the same with the game’s PC port next summer.

Image: IGDB

32

culture science

c2.science@ncl.ac.uk Science Editors Eleanor Gratton, Patrick Harland & Seshadhri Subramanian

the courier

Monday 18 November 2019

Medicinal cannabis not the cure after all?

Steven Ross questions the effectiveness of medicinal cannabis and whether it should be available to the public for treating diseases new study has found that the benefits of using increases the frequency of depression, anxiety and vidual studies. control trials. Moreover, some trials reportedly involved a

A

cannabinoids to treat mental health problems are outweighed by the risks. According to the research, there is little evidence that they are safe to use in the treatment of depression, anxiety, psychosis and other mental health issues.

There was some evidence that cannabis would help with chronic pain disorder

The results of 83 studies conducted over 40 years, involving over 3500 patients, were analysed to look for evidence of the effects of cannabis based medicines. Currently, Australia, the US and Canada use cannabis as a mental health treatment. It has been suggested as a result of this new study that those who receive treatment should consider the possible risk factors involved.

There was some evidence that cannabis would help with chronic pain disorder, although this evidence was of low quality. The evidence suggesting that the dangers posed to mental health is much more substantial.

Evidence suggested that use of cannabinoids actually

psychiatric symptoms. Another risk was that young people who used cannabinoids were more likely to become dependant on cannabis.

Medicinal cannabinoids refers to any plant-based or synthetic cannabis products. The main types are tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD).

The study was a collaborative effort between researchers at the University of New South Wales and University of Queensland in Australia, and the National Addiction Centre at Kings College London. They looked at studies from across the globe and pooled the results of the indi-

Image:Wikipedia

However, there are some limitations to this review however, as not all of the studies were optimally designed. The best type of study for this research would be a randomised control trial. This is because other differences between participants can be accounted for, meaning that more variables are controlled.

Ho w e v e r, this new study examined a mix of different types of trial methodologies and so some may have less validity that others.

43 of the trials looked at in this study were not randomised

risk of bias that could have affected the findings.

The most common mental health issue that was observed by far was depression, followed by anxiety and psychosis. Tourette’s syndrome, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder were also the focus of some of the trials.

10 of the trials i n volved in the study found that medical cannabis doubled the risk of side effects including worsening mental

10

trials found that medical cannabis doubled the risk of side effects

health symptoms.

It is clear that more research needs to be done on this subject in the evolving research field. There are few reliable studies that are designed for this kind of research. It might not be time to start smoking all of your problems away, but new research could well make the issue much

Rise in liver cancer cases calls for more research Grace Dean tells us of the drastic rises in liver cancer cases across the UK, prompting a bigger investigation into causes of the disease

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tatistics released by Cancer Research UK show that the number of deaths from liver cancer in the UK have risen by almost 80% between 2007 and 2017. Of all cancer types, liver cancer has seen both the largest increase in deaths over the last 10 years and the most rapid rise in deaths since UK records began.

60%

rise in the number of cases diagnosed in the last decade

In 2017, 5700 people in the UK died from liver cancer, compared to 3200 in 2007. Even when taking population growth into account, this equates to a rise of 50% from 5.9 people per 100,000 dying of liver cancer in 2007 compared to 8.9 in 2017.

Researchers at Cancer Research argue that a variety of factors have contributed towards these statistics. One of these is a better rate of diagnosis due to

scientific developments; liver cancer is traditionally very difficult to detect in its early stages, leading to it having a poor prognosis, but the number of cases diagnosed has risen by approximately 60% in the last decade.

Despite this improved diagnosis rate, however, the number of related deaths is on the rise. A lot of factors contribute to an increased risk of liver cancer, including age, HIV/AIDS, family history and ethnicity, with black and Asian people being more likely to suffer from liver cancer. Gender is also a key risk factor, with men being almost four times more likely to suffer from liver cancer than women. Liver cancer is one of the hardest to treat, with five-year survival rates ranging from 6% to 37% depending on age and gender.

Ultimately, however, genetic factors are only one side of the coin. It is estimated that half of all liver cancer cases are preventable. By causing non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, obesity is the leading cause of liver cancer, affecting 23% of all cases, and

the Cancer Research team has thus attributed this rise in deaths is primarily to the rise in obesity rates. Further lifestyle choices that influence the likelihood of getting liver cancer include smoking, which is a contributing factor in 20% of all cases, drug abuse and alcohol consumption.

Despite the improved diagnosis rate the number of related deaths is rising

These findings are supported by a separate data analysis by the National Cancer Research Institute, which proved that liver cancer is a growing prob-

lem in England, with the rate of both new cases and deaths of hepatocellular carcinoma, the most common type, having tripled between 1997 and 2016.

The research by the National Cancer Research Institute additionally uncovered that socio-economic factors appear to increase the risk of liver cancer; instances of hepatocellular carcinoma are considerably more common among more deprived members of society, with a quarter of all diagnosed cases coming from individuals in most deprived 20% of England’s population.

Cancer Research UK expressed fears that the number of deaths from liver cancer in the UK will continue to rise, with the number of diagnosed individuals expected to rise by 38% from 2014 to 2035. Treatment options currently include surgical resection, liver transplants, microwave or radiofrequency ablation, chemotherapy, alcohol injections, and a range of medications. Following diagnosis, current survival rates in the UK are approximately 36% for the first year and over 12% for five years or more.

Image:Public Domain Pictures

Reports of a miracle blood test misleads the public Lilla Marshall discusses the misleading articles and questions the role of journalists scientific knowledge when reporting discoveries I f you were to base your scientific knowledge off of newspaper headlines, you’d probably think that scientists have cured cancer a hundred times over.

Last week, a press release in the UK’s National Cancer Research Institute announced a “simple blood test for breast cancer”. Unfortunately, this test is purely hypothetical, which might surprise some press teams around the world.

Unfortunately this test is purely hypothetical

The bold claim is based on a recent study from the

University of Nottingham, where researchers used antibodies (immune cells) to detect the presence of antigens (markers for a foreign presence within the body) for breast tumour tissue. The results were positive, showing that detection using this method was definitely possible, although with only a 37% success rate at pointing out positive cases: it definitely leaves a lot to be desired before this test can be useful in the clinical setting.

“The results of our study show that breast cancer does induce auto-antibodies against Images: Wikipedia

specific tumour-associated antigens,” said Daniyah Alfattani, one of the researchers who worked on the study.

However, he expresses that more work is needed before it can have a clinical use: “Once we have improved the accuracy of the test, then it opens the possibility of using a simple blood test to improve early detection of the disease.”

37%

success rate at pointing out positive cases

This is promising research, which could lead to the development of a simple blood test to detect an individual’s future risk of breast cancer. However, many news websites could be over-exaggerating just how promising the

study is. There isn’t a blood test that could detect the onset of breast cancer; there could, theoretically, be a blood test that detects that, in the near future. That is all the research has shown. Some news sites didn’t even bother with the “could”.

As researchers continue to work on the accuracy of these tests (hoping that, someday, they can become a reality), thousands across the world will already be believing that this test already exists and is running smoothly.

It underlines an important issue within science communication: journalists not trained in science reading through these press releases, without really understanding the actual implications of them – then misinforming their readers about the current state of modern medicine. Or worse, purposeful misinterpretation of these press releases in order to create a “click-bait headline” for their website.

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Monday 18 November 2019

@culture_courier thecourieronline.co.uk/science

Spider-man?

Coal-amity: dirty power troubles Joe Molander discusses issues of coal power in the UK and Asia

Patryjca Ubysz details new research

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IT scientists recently published an article in Nature, the world’s leading scientific journal, on a revolutionary adhesive: “Dry double-sided tape for adhesion of wet tissues and devices”. It is a potential alternative to surgical stitches which can result in complications such as infection and pain. Applying stitches on soft and fragile tissues is difficult and comes with its risks which the double-sided tape (DST) could reduce, increasing the comfort of the patient.

The tape developed by MIT researchers acts in seconds, in contrast to the existing adhesives which need minutes to seal tissues together. The challenge was to develop a glue efficiently reacting on wet surfaces. While the previously developed tissue adhesives rely on dissolution of the glue particles in the water between the surfaces in order to bind them together, the novel DST absorbs the water first, and then binds the tissues on the dried site. The water-removing agent used is polyacrylic acid doped with hydroxysuccinimide ester. The role of the compounds is to enhance the drying process and immediately form strong intermolecular bonds with proteins in the tissue.

This mechanism is inspired by a spider’s strategy of

The lasting time of the tape is dependant on the substance it is constructed out of

catching prey in wet conditions. The substance used in nature consists of charged polysaccharides clearing the wet water off the surface, allowing the glue to act immediately on the dried patch.

Depending on the need, the tape’s “living time” in the body can be adjusted by choosing a substance with a cer-

science culture

Image:Flickr

tain degradation rate. For can be used if the adhesive a couple of days, while a polychitosan usually lasts months in body.

example, gelatin is needed for saccharide human

The risks related to surgical stitches can be reduced

The tests were conducted in rats’ hearts, ex vivo porcine lungs, stomachs and hearts. The researchers demonstrated the ability of the tape to adhere to dynamic tissues as beating heart and that it can be used to apply wearable devices onto wet tissues.

The novel adhesive is potentially a game-changer. The risks related to surgical stitches can be reduced while treating damaged soft tissues has been made easier. However, the research is still in early stages and years will pass before the invention can be implemented in operating rooms.

N Secretary General António Guterres has called on Asia to quit its “addiction” to coal in an attempt to curb climate change.

Asia suffer from something of a climate change double whammy: not only are its countries especially susceptible to climate-related flooding, they are also dependent on coal. With 75% of world demand for coal coming from this region, it would seem Asia’s hooked on the stuff that’ll hurt it the most in the long run, making “addiction” an accurate appraisal. Guterres complains that Asia plan to build a “meaningful number” of new coal power plants despite a report by Climate Central, a non-profit organisation in America which reports on climate issues, suggesting Asia house millions of people who could soon live below tidelines.

The report, which was released at the start of the month, claims that areas projected to be below high-tide lines by 2100 could be home to as many as 190 million people.

Meanwhile, annual coastal flooding threats are set to hit six Asian countries with a combined population of 237 million, including China, Bangladesh and India. Previous estimates for how many people at future risk of coastal flooding were significantly underestimated, with over seven times as many people in India affected as first thought, over eight times in Bangladesh and twelve times in Thailand. Guterres said that although “people can discuss the accuracy of these figures…what is clear is that the trend is there”.

While it’s easy to be smug about our own environmental record – particularly since June, when the UK became the first major country to introduce a law dedicated to net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 – the grass isn’t always greener on the other side, and apparently, neither is the environmental policy. In Cumbria, the UK’s first deep coal mine in decades is still set to open, following

a government decision not to put brakes on the plans.

Ministers left it to Cumbria county council to make the final decision, prompting protests, but despite a sit-in at the council chamber the mine is still going ahead.

Tim Farron – former Lib Dem leader and MP for Westmorland and Lonsdale (in south Cumbria) – called the decision “a kick in the teeth in the fight to tackle climate change”, and that “Cumbria has so many renewable resources to provide energy – water, wind and solar – and we should most definitely not be taking the backwards step of opening a new coal mine”.

Despite protests and a sit-in of the Cumbria country council chamber it is going ahead

Indeed, the Cumbria Renewable Energy Capacity and Development Study has been looking into the potential of hydropower, wind and solar energy production in the area, as well as waste and biomass energy.

What was previously the last deep coal mine in the UK closed in 2015, and while the overall trend is still a fall in the use of coal power, the willingness of those both in Asia and the UK to not work towards a greener future should still be large cause for concern.

Opioid reversal, the war on drugs Human beginnings in Botswana Gemisha Cheemungtoo describes a drug that reverses opioids

Image:Flickr

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new pilot scheme run by Addaction, a drug and alcohol addiction charity, will be handing out an opioid reversal drug called Naloxone on the streets of Redcar and Cleveland. The scheme will be run for 12 weeks, and Addaction intends to expand the take-home Naloxone programme across the nation.

At present, the rate of drug-related deaths in the North East have reached a record rate of 96.3 deaths per million people, compared to the lowest figure of the report, which was 39.4 deaths per million in London. Supported by Cleveland police, ‘Peer to Peer Naloxone’ aims to reduce the number of opioid overdose fatalities, through proactive distribution and training led by volunteers who have previously struggled with substance misuse.

North-East drug related deaths at record highs

Naloxone is a strong opioid antagonist that was originally discovered in the early 1960s, but patented by the US Food and Drug Administration(FDA) by 1971. , Naloxone has made it to the World Health Organisation’s

(WHO) model list of essential medicines.

This list itself consists of drugs WHO considers necessary to meet health care system requirements in the safest and most effective manner. It is used all over the world in medical emergencies, and can also be administered by a lay person effectively provided that they have had some training beforehand.

Naloxone functions by competitively binding to the same µ2 opioid receptors as heroin and other opioid drugs, preventing them from re-attaching to the receptors in the central nervous system. This translates to the fast reversal of symptoms of respiratory depression, such as reduced breathing, for up to 90 minutes. This buys more time for emergency services to arrive on scene and provide help.

According to WHO guidelines in 2014, opioid users have a 50 to 70% lifetime risk of overdosing and are highly likely to witness an overdose too. Certain people might fear the safety net of an opioid reversal drug could encourage more extreme use, however a modelling study has suggested that distribution of naloxone to 30% of heroin users may lead to a decrease in overdose deaths of around 6.6%. Within the context of the increasing rate of opioid-related fatalities, the programme could help save lives, which with further support down the line could help people overcome their addiction.

Gary Besterfield, service manager of Addaction Redcar and Cleveland, said: “Every drug related death is a tragedy and every death is avoidable. Too many families in Redcar and Cleveland have lost loved ones. It’s time to take action.”

“The opportunity to carry and use Naloxone shouldn’t be restricted to people who are engaging in drug treatment. This is about being proactive, engaging people where they feel comfortable and saving lives.”

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cientists have claimed to trace humanity’s ancestral home to Botswana, a country in Southern Africa, where we supposedly lived for 70,000 years until the climate changed.

This massive landscape was home to humans 200,000 years ago

This massive landscape was home to humans 200,000 years ago according to Professor Vanessa Hayes, a geneticist at the Garvan Institute of Medical Research in Australia.

Due to changes in the Earth’s tilt and orbit, rainfall was brought to the North-East and SouthWest which created lush green corridors that humans then moved towards.

This conclusion was formed following the analysis of 1,217 samples of mitochondrial DNA, which is the genetic material found in most cells.

All of this DNA was taken in a study on people living in South African regions today, such as the Khoisan.

Hayes et al claimed in their report that the lineage and its sub-branches point towards an “ancestral home” that spreads from Namibia, across Botswana and into Zimbabwe.

Following the DNA discovery, they began to look at the geological, archaeological and fossil evidence where they found that a gigantic body of water called ‘Lake Makgadikgadi’ was once present in the area.

Hayes said, “It would have been very lush and it would have provided a suitable habitat for modern humans and wildlife to have lived.”

Scientists believe that those who migrated North-East formed farming populations, whilst those that moved south became coastal foragers instead. Hayes claimed, “Essentially, these ancestors were the first human explorers.”

However, the new claims are not without their criticism. Chris Stringer, a researcher who studies human origins at the Natural History Museum in London, said “I’m definitely cautious about using modern genetic distributions to infer exactly where ancestral populations were living 200,000 years ago, particularly in a continent as large and complex as Africa.”

He elaborated, “Like so many studies that concentrate on one small bit of the genome, or one region, or one stone tool industry, or one ‘critical’ fossil, it cannot capture the full complexity of our mosaic origins, once other data are considered.”

Stringer claimed that our Y-carrying ancestors may have originated from western Africa and that “we are an amalgam of ancestry from different regions of Africa” that interbred with other human groups outside of the continent.

Rebecca Ackermann, an archeologist at the Univ e r - sity of Cape Town, was also fairly critical of the findings. She said, “Drawing sweeping conclusions about places of origins from analyses of this tiny part of the modern genome is deeply problematic and outdated.”

H u m a n origins are a complicated and tangled web. It would Image:Wikipedia appear as though these new claims are somewhat overly simplistic.

James Troughton

puzzles

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Monday 18 Novemberr Puzzles Editor Emma Dawson

Solutions will be revealed in next week’s issue, available on campus from 25 November

MR TAYTO’S CROSSWORD

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1. Children’s horror series written by R.L Stine (10) 7. Popular toy on a string (4) 8. Type of shelled mollusc (4) 9. Late 80s US sitcom with a puppet protagonist (3) 11. Variety of chili pepper (7) 12. Brand famous for interlocking plastic bricks (4) 14. Form of medical imaging (4) 16. Location of most of a cell’s DNA (7) 20. 2006 hit for The Kooks (5) 23. Crime drama series starring Idris Elba (6) 24. Large animal with antlers (3)

1. Lewis Capaldi song (5) 2. Geographical region including Australia, New Zealand and Polynesia (7) 3. Racquet sport played with a shuttlecock (9) 4. Microstate and country in Western Europe (6) 5. 23rd film in the James Bond series (7) 6. 2018 Lizzo hit (4) 10. City in Northern England (4) 13. Animation studio based in California (5) 15. Currency of Japan (3) 17. Community ____ , Monopoly square (5) 18. 1815 Jane Austen novel (4) 19. Castle-shaped chess piece (4) 21. Feeling of amazement (3) 22. Chemical symbol of gold (2)

The first person to find Editor-in-Chief Grace Dean with a completed copy of the crossword wins a mysterious (AKA crap) prize from our delicious puzzles drawer

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Monday 18 November 2019

Jacks of all trades:

Sporting stars who made a change

This week, the Courier Sports team take a look at the crossover sporting stars whose talents straddle more than just one sport signature “To Di World” pose.

Despite evidently showing some potential, Bolt turned down a two-year contract with Maltese club Valletta. Not long after, Perth Glory forward Andy Keogh stated that Bolt had “shown a bit of potential but it’s a little bit of a kick in the teeth to the professionals that are in the league.”

After only eight weeks with the Club, Bolt left the Mariners in November 2018, and in January 2019 openly announced that he was no longer interested in pursuing a football career, saying his “sports life is over.”

Usain Bolt Grace Dean

Bolt is generally regarded as the greatest sprinter of all time. Of slightly less succes, however, is his career as a footballer

After 14 years as a professional althlete, Bolt decided to turn his attention to football. After announcing that playing for Manchester United following his retirement from track and field would be “epic” and “like a dream come true”, Bolt undertook some training with Norwegian side Strømsgodset as a forward before beginning training with Australian A-League club the Central Coast Mariners as a left-winger on his 32nd birthday in August 2018.

After making his friendly debut as a substitute later than month, he went on to score twice for the team in a friendly match two months later. Fans of the sprinter will not be surprised to hear that his celebrated with his

Usually the more athletic football players have success in both NFL and baseball leagues

The most recent case includes the latest number 1 pick in the NFL draft Kyler Murray who is taking the league by storm quarterbacking the Arizona Cardinals this year. Murray was also drafted ninth overall in the MLB draft by the Oakland Athletics but declined to play. As a result, it can be argued that the age of the two-sport star is over in American pro sports as the physicality of both the NFL and MLB has stepped up drastically. Kyler Murray is the last of the two sport stars and we will likely never see him on the diamond.

Image: Public Domain Vectors, @CCMariners (Twitter)

Usain Bolt is famed for his sprinting prestige.

A world record holder in the 100 metres, 200 metres and 4 × 100 metres relay and eighttime Olympic gold medallist, Bolt is generally regarded as the greatest sprinter of all time. Of slightly less success, however, is his career as a footballer.

with the Atlanta Braves in 1992- making him the only person to play in both the Super Bowl and the World Series, though the Braves were eventually defeated by the Toronto Blue Jays.

at the age of 35 against the West Indies.

He holds the unique distinction of having featured in a County Championship match and a Football League game on the same day

He also holds the unique distinction of having featured in a County Championship match and a Football League game on the same day.

When the day’s play finished between Leicestershire and Derbyshire, he was 51 not out. He then changed and played for the Doncaster Rovers in an evening kickoff against Brentford the same day. Balderstone would then go on to complete his century the next day and take three wickets to help Leicestershire wrap up the County Championship title.

He passed away on 6th of March, 2000 at his home in Carlisle after having suffered from prostate cancer.

Image: Public Domain Vectors, Wikimedia Commons

Image: Public Domain Vectors, Wikipedia

American Two Sports Stars Dominic Lee The NFL and MLB are two of the top sports leagues in the USA. On the surface of it the players in these leagues are quite different from each other. Football players are generally more muscular and quicker. Whereas, baseball players generally have more arm strength but aren’t as athletic.

As a result it’s usually the more athletic football players who have success in both leagues, as baseball players are generally unable to match the physical demands of the NFL. Cornerback Deion Sanders is probably the best NFL player to grace both leagues. Sanders won two Super Bowl’s with the San Francisco 49ers and Dallas Cowboys respectively, cementing his place as arguably the best player to ever play at his position. Deion was also pretty handy with the bat as well, reaching the World Series

Paolo Maldini slides in on Roberto Mancini Image: Wikipedia

nis Cup in Milan, which is a professional tennis tournament on the ATP Challenger Tour.

However, he wouldn’t go on to replicate the success he achieved in football, as he, alongside his doubles partner Stefano Landonio, lost in the first round. They lost the first set and second set 6-1, losing against Tomasz Bednarak and David Pel. I’m afraid to say that was Maldini’s first and last experience of top flight tennis. Afterwards, he compared a career in tennis, after football, to “writing a poem after years of studying maths”. So his tennis career, like my football career, was short and (not) sweet, but even after his performance, you can’t take away his 5 Champion League and 7 Serie A titles, over a tremendous 25 year career.

Ellyse Perry Rebecca Johnson Image: Public Domain Vectors, @bbccumbriasport (Twitter)

Chris Balderstone Sesha Subramanian Chris Balderstone was one of the last sportspersons to combine professional careers in both cricket and football for a prolonged period of time. He played football for various clubs including Carlisle United and Doncaster Rovers while his cricketing career saw him excel in first class cricket for Leicestershire and even play two tests for England.

He began his footballing career at Huddersfield Town going on to make 117 appearances for them before moving to Carlisle where he had his most success. He was not the quickest player or the hardest tackler on the field but his ability to dictate tempo soon won over the fans of the new team. He scored on debut for the team in a 4-1 win against Norwich and would stay for eleven years at the club – captaining them eventually. The team’s run to the semifinal of the League Cup in 1960-70 would be one of the highlights of his career. He then joined Doncaster Rovers, Queen of the South and non-league Enderby Town before hanging up his boots.

Despite starting out for Yorkshire in first class cricket, Balderstone’s most famous years were the ones he spent with Leicestershire.

The team would win 5 trophies in 5 seasons during the 1970s. He would play 390 matches in first class cricket with the highlights being a County Championship trophy in 1975 and a debut for the national team the following year

Image: Public Domain Vectors, @paolomaldini (Instagram)

Paolo Maldini Tom Moorcroft When you think of some of the greatest CBs to ever grace the beautiful game, what names come to mind? Some may say Carles Puyol. Others: Franz Beckenbauer. Deluded Everton fans like myself might even throw Phil Jagielka into the mix. However, one of the first on my list, and I’m sure yours too, would be ‘Il Capitano’ himself, Paolo Maldini.

Usually the more athletic football players have success in both NFL and baseball leagues

The Italian widely dominated the Serie A for a number of years, sticking with his boyhood club AC Milan, in which he made 647 appearances (a league record). After he retired from football in 2008, having a vastly successful career, Milan retired his number 3 shirt, to cement him in the history of the club. However, Maldini picked up another shirt after retiring, for a sport with no teams and much smaller balls. Yes, I’m talking of course about tennis.

Maldini put away his boots, picked up a racket, and dove headfirst into the world of tennis. He peaked when he qualified for the Aspria Ten-

One of the true greats of women’s cricket at the moment, Ellyse Perry isn’t doing too badly to say the very least. An all-rounder, Perry absolutely blitzed this year’s Ashes, she was the highest run scorer with 378 runs at 94.50 and leading wicket taker throughout the series.

In 2016 she was forced to make the choice between cricket or football

However, before she became one of the best Australian cricketers ever, Perry was a defender for her national football team. She made 47 domestic appearances and 18 for the Australian national side. In this time she clocked six goals in all formats. Alongside this, Perry was still playing cricket, which usually resulted in her having to pick which tournaments she wanted to play in.

However, in 2016 she was forced to make the choice between cricket or football. Perry eventually chose cricket, partially because of the national football team’s frustrations at her inability to commit to either side.

The full time presence of Ellyse Perry to the cricketing world has been a blessing for Australia. Her impact is felt throughout the team. In 2017 she was awarded the Rachael Heyhoe Flint Award for the ICC Women’s Cricketer of the Year, and she’s continued to get better since. In this year’s Ashes in England, she took the best bowling figures in WODIs, with 7 wickets for 22 runs. She also became the first player, male or female, to score 1000 runs and take 100 wickets in Twenty20 cricket.

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Monday 18 November 2019

Super Saffers go ballistic: Scotland are atrocious

As the Rugby World Cup came to an end Tomo Clarkson and Rory Ewart rate each nation’s performance in the competition Tomo Clarkson

It would be fair to say Rugby World Cup 2019 did not disappoint. Many countries used the opportunity of the World Cup to make a statement on the international stage. Established nations like South Africa and New Zealand used it as an opportunity to prove why they are considered amongst the best in the world, up and coming nations made a case for their inclusion in major competitions and Scotland were just incredibly Scottish.

Scotland must be considered as the most disappointing team of the tournament

The greatest plaudits must be given to the winners South Africa, a nation who most pundits gave little to no chance of winning the final, I’m looking at you Matt Dawson.

Their brand of rugby might not be as exciting as Faf de Klerks hair, but their game management throughout the competition was phenominal, as seen in the final, where they displayed a ruthless efficiency to shut England’s attack down for most of the match. Their rise from the dire days Allister Coetzee to now is nothing short of exceptional.

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The amount of games that Scotland won in the tournament

It might not have been the ending that Eddie Jones was planning for England, but the progress that has been made over the last 4 years cannot be understated. To go from being knocked out of your home World Cup to the final (overcoming a combined 5 World Cups in the form of their knockout opponents) is a feat itself. England can also take pride in playing possibly the game of the tournament against New Zealand, who simply had no answers to England’s phenomenal defence in the semi-final match between the two teams.

Japan must also get credit not only for the tournament that they hosted, but also for the fantastic brand of rugby that they played. To come top of a pool featuring both Scotland and Ireland is an incredible accomplishment, even more so considering how convincing the wins against both teams were.

Their inclusion in the rugby championship is now a major question for world rugby.

Japan enjoyed a succesful home World Cup Image: Instagram @ rugbyworldcup;

South Africa lift the Webb-Ellis trophy Image: Instagram @ rugbyworldcup

Credit must also be given to New Zealand for their dismantling of Ireland in the quarters, and to Wales for their wins against Australia and France, as well as pushing South Africa close in the semi-final.

Not every nation can be given such praise however, and unfortunately Scotland must be considered the most disappointing team of the tournament. Despite playing possibly the fastest and simply maddest rugby in the world, they have proved unable to string wins together. Pressure surly is mounting on head coach Gregor Townsend to improve results soon.

Rory Ewart Sports Editor South Africa, our world champions, has had quite the rotate since England 2015.

Turn the clock back four years and, despite reaching a very respectable semi-final finish to their campaign, they’d suffered a shock loss to Japan in the process, looking a shadow of the team they had the potential to portray.

Since then, there have been wholesale changes, Heyneke Meyer was removed as head coach, along with a complete backroom team overhaul. Rassie Erasmus, his replacement (after the brief efforts of Allister Coetzee) brought changes of his own which now have to be seen as masterstrokes.

Firstly, appointing forward Siya Kolisi as the Boks new captain brought a fresh look to a team in need of new ideas. The recalling of Faf de Klerk as scrum-half brought improvements to the backline immediately, the halfback, having moved to Sale Sharks in England in order to rejuvenate a stuttering career, is now argued as one of the top scrum half’s in the world and rightly so.

These changes, among many others, brought a South Africa outfit that executed their world cup campaign to perfection. Having started with a disappointing loss to New Zealand in their first pool game, they grew into the tournament with an impressive set of results against Namibia, Italy and Canada, leading them to qualify to the knockout stages as runners up of

Pool B. You can sum the Springboks knockout stage in one word. Defence. South Africa were simply indestructible when without the ball, with their blistering pace men of Cheslin Kolbe and Makazole Mapimpi meaning they could break quickly once they had re-gathered ball. Any rugby fan that suggests that this defensive approach to the game is ‘boring’ doesn’t truly appreciate the extent it takes to maintain such a resilient backline in order to do this. As much as glimpse and glamour of the running rugby is a true spectacle to the eye, defence is what wins you games. Congratulations South Africa, a well-deserved second world cup.

The recalling of Faf de Klerk as scrum-half brought improvements to the backline immediately, having moved to Sale Sharks

The All Blacks will ultimately look at this world cup as a failure. Despite playing blistering rugby in the run-up to their semifinal, including beating South Africa in their opening game and succumbing Ireland to a quarter-final drubbing, they were simply outplayed on the day against England, sending them home trophy-less for the first time since 2007.

New Zealand will come back fighting from this and would still be a sound bet to win the Rugby Championship next year. Though, this is a time of transition for the three-time world champions. Coach Steve Hansen leaves his role as head coach, with his replacement remaining unclear.

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Will Genia managed to amass 110 international caps for Australia

Captain, and member of rugby folklore in New Zealand now, Kieran Read, retires from the international game also, along with

regular All-Black Sonny Bill Williams who returns to Rugby League with the Toronto Wolfpack. The changing of the guard within New Zealand will lead many to speculate whether New Zealand will be the same team that they have been for the last decade, only time will tell.

Anxiety creeps in when reflecting on the way in which the Wallabies lost, they were outfought and out-thought

Australians will feel a mix of disappointment and anxiety after their countries campaign. They were well and truly humbled by a ruthless England, leaving them finishing in their joint-worst position of quarter-finalists.

Anxiety creeps in when reflecting on the way in which the Wallabies lost, they were outfought and outthought, being the masters of their own downfall, which reflected on parallels of Scotland, trust me I should know all about this. Kurtley Beale at full-back was eerily mistake prone, and he wasn’t alone in this either. The back row dominators consisting of Hooper, Pocock et al didn’t maintain their usual rigour at the breakdown.

The Australians, similarly to their New Zealand neighbours, will also go through a serious transition over the next year. Coach Michael Cheika resigned after five years of service along with scrum-half Will Genia who retires internationally after amassing over 100 caps for Australia.

One would assume that the pair could be joined by other older members of the squad, the likes of Ashley-Cooper, Lealiifano and Kepu amassing over 250 caps between them, all pointing towards the door of retirement, or international retirement at least.

The big task for the Wallabies, therefore, is to create a new core to their national team in the rotate to France 2023, something which nobody can assume will happen overnight, but their new coach will hope to instill over the next four years.

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Monday 18 November 2019

‘Thunder from Down Under’ strikes in Coventry

Tom Moorcroft takes a look at all the news from this year’s Champion of Champions, which saw Australian Neil Robertson emerge victorious

If you take a look at the world snooker rankings, which determines who the best player in the world is, you’ll see that they’re graded by their total number of tournament winnings.

Currently, at the time of publication, Judd Trump tops the list with £1,324,000, followed by the ‘Welsh potting-machine’ Mark Williams with £1,016,750.

Shaun ‘The Magician’ Murphy almost foiled the Ozzies chances of winning, with Robertson scraping a 6-5 win

Anyone new to the sport, just going off of this list, would assume that Judd Trump is the best player in the world. However, this concept has seen it’s fair share of controversy over the last few years, with players such as Ronnie O’Sullivan, for example, saying that with the number of ranking tournaments in a year, and the distance that snooker players have to travel to partake in them, it’s impossible to expect snooker players to attend every single ranking events.

So, ignoring tournament prize money, what other ways could you think of determining who is the best player in the world?

Well look no further, because in 2013, an old tournament was revived: the ‘Champion of Champions’. First being created in 1978, and then stopping in 1980, the tournament was revived in 2013 by Matchroom sports, with a typical structure; a round of sixteen, down to the quarter finals, semi finals, and then one final game, to determine who the best player in the world truly is.

As the name suggests, to partake in the tournament, there has to be some strict cri-

teria. The 16 best players in the world are determined by the winners of ranking tournaments throughout the year, ranging from tournaments such as the ‘Seniors Championship’, this year won by Jimmy ‘the whirlwind’ White, to the ‘World Championship’, won by the ‘ace-in-the-pack’ that is Judd Trump.

This years Champion of Champions, being held in Coventry (the last time the tournament will be played there, before they move to Milton Keynes), saw some big hitters, such as Ronne O’Sullivan, Neil Robertson and John Higgins, amongst some younger talents, such as Judd Trump (the current world champion), and Thepchiaya Un-Nooh.

The round of sixteen saw the best of the best battle out to remain in the competition, with O’Sullivan, Higgins, Robertson and Selby, to name a few, going through to the next round.

Selby saw a clean sweep against Yan Bingtao, with the young chinese talent not winning a single frame. Bingtao, who is only 19 years old, shouldn’t be disheartened however, as Selby has proved himself to be a giant of the sport. Following this theme, Trump battered another talented player, Stephen Maguire, 4-0, whilst Robertston, the ‘thunder from down under’, recorded the same score against Martin Gould.

Would history repeat itself for Trump?

Moving on to the quarter finals, there were some closer, but still confident, performances from the likes of O’Sullivan, who beat exWorld Champion John Higgins 6-3, and Mark Allen, who beat his namesake, Mark Selby, 6-2. However, Robertson scraped a win against ‘The Magician’, Shaun Murphy, who’s tricky style of play almost foiled the Ozzies chances of going through.

There were 4 names left in the semi finals: Ronnie O’Sullivan, Neil Robertson, Mark

Allen and Judd Trump. Each talented professionals. Each deserving of the title ‘Champion’. However, only two of them would progress to the final. The first game, O’Sullivan v Robertson, was another close game, but it was Robertson who brought his ‘A game’ in the end, beating the veteran 6-5.

Robertson posing with his ‘Champion of Champions’ trophy Image: Instagram @nr147

Robertson and Trump were neck and neck in the final frame, 9-9

In the other game, World Champion Trump beat Mark Allen in a slightly more convincing 6-4. This left only two more players: Trump and Robertson.

The game saw world number four, Robertson, in his second Champion of Champions final of his career, after winning the competition in 2015, whilst Trump was also in his second final of his career, coming runner-up in 2014. Would history repeat itself for Trump? Well, after playing a total of 19 frames, the maximum allowed for the final, in a truly nail-biting climax, Robertson lifted the trophy and claimed his title as ‘Champion of Champions’, winning 10-9.

Robertson and Trump were neck and neck at most points in the match, resulting in the final frame, 9-9, seeing Robertson achieve a 137 break, the second highest of the tournament. The penultimate frame even had a respotted black, the process when a frame comes out as a draw, and the players have to pot a single black, leading to an often tactical masterpiece. Respotted blacks happen as often as England win penalty shootouts, or Everton win games in general, so it was class to see one in such an intense atmosphere.

On social media, Robertson took to Instagram to discuss the win. He said, “You can only dream and wish to be a part of a match like that. Means everything to have [my fam-

ily] to share it with. Thank you so much for one of the most amazing atmospheres the crowd created tonight. @Judd147t absolute class with his words at the end”. These ‘words at the end’ refer to Judd saying: “I’m not too disappointed. It’s always a joy playing Neil because he plays similar to myself and he gets on with it. He deserved to win. ‘’ Neil struggled to hold back his tears, in an extremely heartfelt moment.

It’s good to know that, while sometimes sports can divide players, Snooker unified

these two giants, and they both appreciated and respected the game.

137

Robertson’s highest break of the tournament

For anyone wanting to see some top quality snooker, and what the game is all about, I would have to recommend the final. It was one of the most dramatic games I’ve seen.

Formula 1 is about to get even racier

The Courier’s very own F1 fanatic, Sesha Subramanian breaks down the law changes that are set to make the sport more exciting than ever While Lewis Hamilton grabbed the headlines in the Circuit of the Americas at Austin, winning his sixth Drivers’ title, the weekend also saw the announcement of major changes to the regulations of the sport to take effect from the 2021 season.

The main aim of this wide plethora of changes is to even the playing field, both on and off the track, with a series of technical and financial measures. ‘Raceability’ is the

order of the day as the new rules are designed to get cars to race closer together by trying to change the design of the vehicles as well as keeping teams closer financially.

2021

The year the new rules will come into effect

The main focus is on reducing the effect of “dirty air”. Dirty air is the term given to the wake of turbulent air left behind by a car as it passes through – and it is this turbulent flow that messes with the aerodynamics of the car behind, reducing the latter’s downforce (the downward lift force of the car). This makes overtaking extremely hard. The new regulations will involve the use of Venturi tunnels to direct the dirty air upwards above the fol-

lowing car and the result is expected to be that a car that is following behind at a distance of one car length will be able to follow and overtake easily.

The other major talking point of these new regulations are the financial ones– with a cost cap of $175 million dollars set for every team (from bigwigs like Mercedes and Ferrari to Williams and Alfa Romeo). There will be exceptions to the cap – most notably, off-track

expenses such as marketing, licensing costs, fuel and oil costs among others. Any work done on the car even by subsidiary companies will count towards the cost cap with serious penalties (going all the way to exclusion) for flouting the rules. The aim of the cost cap is to bring teams closer together in terms of ability and improve competition.

A cost cap of $175 million dollars set for every team

Moreover, the cost cap in Formula 1 has a lot of exceptions to it which means teams could circumvent the rules if they wanted to.

And what happens then will be a keen point of interest.

The new regulations will involve the use of Venturi tunnels

h Image: Wikimedia Commons

All in all, improving competition has been the aim of Formula One’s newest concoction of rules. Currently, the 2017 regulations – which are under force right now – help establish faster lap times but the cars are not able to follow each other on the track and it makes for less exciting races with less overtaking. 2021 hopes to change that.

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Monday 18 November 2019

PREVIEW: Fight Night is back BUCS RESULTS w

NSR Deputy Station Manager Tom Stone meets the fighters ahead of Newcastle’s infamous fight night this month DING DING DING! FIGHT IS BACK AND IT’S BIGGER THAN EVER! As the 28th November fast approaches, and the ringside planning begins, the fighters prepare to face their fate. NSR visited our fighters in the depth of their training camp to find out their thoughts, and in some cases, their fears.

As we walked towards the rustic gym, we could hear the explosive cracks of the punchbags echo throughout the walls. As the first fighter, an army cadet, was sent out to us, we could see the weariness on her face, probably because the media team aren’t the bestlooking bunch of people. We bombarded her with questions that were sure to instil heightened fear within her, without much luck. A future soldier in the making couldn’t be made frightened by Newcastle Student Radio, funnily enough.

BADMINTON

M1 v Manchester 1sts M2 v York 2nds M3 v York 3rds W1 v Derby 1sts W2 v Manchester 1sts

BASKETBALL

1-2 6-3 2-4 3-2

GOLF

Fight Night takes place November 28th Image: NSR

ideas.

Ed ‘El Chapo’ Sugarman and Kevin ‘Buckshot’ Kelly is set to be a spectacle

Ed “El Chapo” Sugarman and Kevon “Bruckshot” Kelly were sent to us, sparring

gloves on and a smirk on their faces. Prior, we were able to watch the two face-off inside the ring and in front of the cameras.

A shove was given to Kelly by Sugarman and the gym staff could hardly interfere with the chaos that ensued. The coach, Andy, had been keen to get these two the most airtime to promote the fight, and it was clear why. Two very similarly weighted fighters and a lot of trash talk led to a fantastic closing interview.

At the end, they faced each other again and each predicted knockouts. If what they say is true, this fight should hopefully become a

spectacle and a “fight night” classic, so tune in!

28/11

The date for this year’s Fight Night

Fight Night will be streamed live on YouTube and Facebook, coverage from NUTV, NSR and the Courier throughout the evening.

3 2

1.5-4.5

HOCKEY

M1 v Durham 3rds M2 v Sheffield 2nds M3 v York 1sts M4 v Hull 2nds W2 v Northumbria W3 v Leeds Becket 2nds W5 v Leeds 7sts

2-1 3-1 0-3 5-1 2-3 1-4 13-0

M1 v Durham 2nds M2 v Durham 3rds W1 v Nottingham 1sts W2 v Durham 4ths W3 v Durham 5ths

21-1 5-0 4-20 13-3 9-13

LACROSSE

NETBALL

W1 v Durham 1st W2 v Durham 2nds W3 v Sheffield Hallam 2nds W4 v Leeds Beckett 4th

RUGBY LEAGUE M1 v Hull 1sts

SQUASH

M2 v Sheffield 2nds M3 v Leeds 2nds W2 v Leeds 2nds

51-64 39-14 44-39 36-41 34-20

0-5 0-3 2-2 (NCL 8-6)

TABLE TENNIS

Newcastle Women’s seconds were looking to build on last week’s 10-0 win, with a trip away to York University 2s.

M1 v Nottingham Trent 1sts M2 v York 2nds

2-15 14-3

TENNIS

Half time and the score stood at 2-1

M1 v Manchester 1sts 4-2 W2 v Sheffield 0-6 W1 v Liverpool John Moore 1sts W/O to NCL

WATERPOLO

The team started bright and they got their reward early after a well worked corner with Dani Pick and Amelia Stennett saw Stennett find Meg Coutin, who coolly finished to make it 1-0. Newcastle were playing with energy and giving York absolutely no time on the ball.

The away side’s second goal soon followed with Brittany Kearns cutting inside from the right and putting the ball firmly in the bottom corner.

We looked in control but were unable to extend our lead despite some great running from Coutin, Dana Sumait and Stennett up

135-116 32-135 133-118

1 v Leeds 1sts

Kate Hardy at York University

Brittany Kearns put the ball through the keeper’s legs

M1 v Leeds 1st M2 vs Durham 3rds W1 v Lancaster 1sts

FOOTBALL

Kate Hardy reports on the side’s gutsy performance against York University 2s to emerge 3-2 winners at full time.

Team Newcastle York University

73-78 70-55 68-67 35-76 52-46

M2 v Northumbria M3 v Northumria 3rds W1 v York 1sts W2 v York 2nds

Women’s Football 2s hang on for victory in York Women’s Football

M1 v Durham 1sts M2 v Durham 2nds M3 v York SJ 1st W1 v Durham 1sts W2 v Sheffield 2nds

FENCING

The gym staff could hardly interfere with the chaos that ensued

A flurry of fighters were then sent to us out from the double doors that led to the gym, to where we were waiting to interview, with 6-foot tyres and exercise ropes as our background. At the end of each interview, we asked our fighters to look down the camera and send a message to their opponent to inform them of their impending doom, Mike Tyson style. Matt “the Belfast Bomber” Le Roux kicked us off, with a seemingly humble message: “may the best man win”. A quietly confident approach sure to place doubt in his opponent.

Most fighters, including the likes of Jess “U Watts” Mate, had similar messages that followed the more modest route. Even Thomas “TJ” McSherry, who conducted the interview with a bloody nose that had been damaged in sparring, remained quiet about his boxing abilities, or incapabilities for that matter.

However, our next two fighters had different

3-5 1-6 7-1 1-7

W1 v Edinburgh 1sts W2 v York 1sts

4-27 0-21

ULTIMATE FRISBEE

M1 v Manchester 1

10-14

RUGBY UNION The seconds put in a solid performance to beat York Image: Newcastle Women’s Football

front. York got a goal back, with a cross reaching an unmarked player at the back post. Half time and the score stood at 2-1.

Second half, Newcastle had to dig in and defend, with York looking for an equaliser.

Brittany Kearns found a break through after 20 minutes, finding space and putting the ball through the keeper’s legs to make it 3-1.

Again York found a way back into the game, converting a penalty to make it 3-2. A

nervy last 15 minutes saw Newcastle defend well to keep York out. A great save from Jasmin Ireland and a last ditch tackle from Kate Lees ensured that Newcastle saw the game out to get all three points.

M1 v Durham 2nds M2 v Liverpool 1sts M3 v York St John 1sts M4 v York 2nds W1 v Birmingham 1sts W2 v Hull 1sts

VOLLEYBALL

31-34 15-26 66-0 36-7 15-20 W/O to Hull

M1 v Durham 1sts W2 v Sheffield Hallam 2nds

0-3 3-0

sport the courier

Monday 18 November 2019 Issue 1398 Free

@Courier_Sport courier.sport@ncl.ac.uk thecourieronline.co.uk/sport Head of Sport Rebecca Johnson Sport Editors Rory Ewart, Stan Gilyead, Toby Bryant & Tom Moorcroft

Cheeky Ladies take Engineers to the cleaners

Rory Ewart reports on the season’s curtain raiser for intra-mural rugby teams Mechanical Engineering and Cheeky Ladies from Cochrane Park INTRA-MURAL RUGBY

Cheeky Ladies 18 Mechanical 7 Engineering

Rory Ewart at Cochrane Park

Tuesday evening finally brought the long awaited season opening game for The Cheeky Ladies and Mechanical Engineering, two of Newcastle University’s intramural rugby teams.

Regular captain Oscar Williams was forced to withdraw himself from selection due to a freak injury in a local gym

The fixture had originally been scheduled for Wednesday 30th October, however torrential rain had shifted University matches onto the 3G surfaces meant to play host for the sides. This then led to the game being moved to a week later, which, as many of you have now worked out, was postponed again for the same reason.

This subsequently led us to Tuesday evening. Cold, drizzly and wet, these were ideal conditions for classic mud bath rugby; however, with Cochrane Park undergoing a facelift over the summer, the brand new 3G pitches that held the game was in immaculate condition.

The Ladies defend a lineout in their 22 Image: Rory Ewart

The final play of the half saw Mechanical Engineering break away from the Cheeky defensive line to score

moves within their respective back lines in training sessions during the preceding weeks.

Sadly, the slippery ball meant that for much of the attempted exchanges of these moves would fall short due to the wet weather making running difficult on the foot.

Unsurprisingly therefore, the first points of the evening was from a penalty from Cheeky’s fly-half Ferg Anderson, who managed to calmly slot from the edge of the 22 for not only his own, but the Cheeky Ladies first points of the 19/20 campaign.

The rest of the half was largely a cagey affair, with neither team coming particularly close to the try line until the final play of the half, when a Mechanical Engineering back managed to break away from the defensive line of the Ladies to score, with the resulting conversion ticking the scoreboard over to 7-3 in favour of Mechanical Engineering at half time.

Some half-time inspiration from injured

The Cheeky ladies, before even kicking a ball this season, had suffered an injury blow.

Captain Oscar Williams was forced to withdraw himself from selection due to a freak injury in a local gym, just two days before the re-arranged fixture. Archie Dixon-Smith stepped up to take Williams’ place as captain.

The game began in a stop start fashion, with much of the play-taking place with both sets of ten metre lines. This was no surprise due to the slippery nature of the ball, with handling errors creeping in from both sides.

Both teams very evidently had prepared

Inside Sport today >>>

Rugby World Cup We analyse the team performances from the 2019 Rugby World Cup Page 37

w

captain Dixon-Smith led to a revived Cheeky Ladies in the second, who managed to dominate proceedings from the off. The majority of the first twenty minutes of the second half were played within Mechanical Engineering’s own half.

3/4

Cheeky fly-half Ferg Anderson managed to slot three out of four kicks

A significant chunk of this was down to the excellent-ranging boot of second half full-back Johnny Plimmer, whose blistering spiralling kicks sending the back three of Mech Eng into disarray. On occasion, Plimmer even managed to clear ball from deep inside Cheeky territory into the opposing 22.

No mean feat on a perfectly still day let alone

Football win

Kate Hardy reports on Women Football 2’s victory over York University Page 39

a cold November evening in the North East, The extended period of attack from the Cheeky Ladies brought rewards around the 55-minute mark as Johnny Plimmer, fresh from kicking a ball out of the park probably, managed to scamper over the line, the resulting extras from Anderson returning the Ladies slender lead of three.

A freak injury then brought play to an abrupt pause. Scrumhalf Dig De La Slee receiving what appeared to be a wayward stud into his right leg. This resulted in an extremely deep gash, which thankfully managed to narrowly avoid contact with any bone. Somehow, De La Slee managed to hobble off the park to receive treatment. We hope a speedy recovery for him.

With play resuming after injury delay, the Cheeky’s picked up from where they left off.

A timely penalty kick from Ferg Anderson was followed with a second try of the even-

ing. This time Ben Pickles going on a jaunt of his own, taking apart multiple Engineering defenders in the process to cross the whitewash to extend the Cheeky score to 18-7.

Eddie Jones-esque ‘finishers’ in the form of Harry Hewlett, Archie Larcombe and Jack Theakston put in sturdy shifts as they entered the fray throughout the second half to ensure the ship was steadied for the remainder of the game. Full time 18-7 to the Cheeky Ladies.

Particular praise must also be given to debutants Will Counsell, Milo Linney and Jock Stodart, each of which begun the game and played key roles to victory. Calum Eastwood continued from where he left off last season as the solid dynamo in the pack, causing turnovers and panic for the opposition throughout the match.

The Cheeky Ladies return to action next Tuesday against Armstrong, Kick-off 6PM, with support being appreciated as always.

Sport switches

The Courier Sports team take a look at some bold sport crossovers over time Page 36